bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conflict and Contract Use in Cross-Cultural Buyer–Supplier Relationships: The Role of Cultural Context
Authors: Roehrich Jens K , Sarafan Mehrnoush , Squire Brian , Lawson Benn , Bouazzaoui Meriem
Published: July 2024

Conflict is common within global supply chains, especially where the buyer and supplier span different cultures. In such settings, formal contracts assume an important role in providing a common language that specifies each party's roles, responsibilities, and liabilities. However, the primacy, use, and interpretation of contracts is subject to the cultural norms of the two parties involved. We adopt a multi-method research design to understand how cultural context affects how suppliers interpret and respond to different contract functions (control vs. coordination) adopted by a buyer firm during conflict episodes. Study 1 involves multiple, in-depth case studies of conflict between three Indian suppliers and six of their international buyers from China, Germany, and the United States. Our findings highlight how the use of contractual control or coordination is interpreted differently depending on the supplier's cultural context. In particular, a mismatch in contract function use and the supplier's culturally derived expectations can lead to strong negative emotions and damage to the relationship. In Study 2, we propose and test a set of hypotheses via a scenario-based experiment of German and Chinese managers. We find support for our hypothesized conditional effects, showing that for suppliers from high-context cultures, the buyer's use of contractual control to address conflict has a significant negative, indirect effect on relationship commitment (via the emotion of anger). We conclude with a discussion of the implications of using contracts to manage conflict in cross-cultural supply chain relationships.
Group Buying Between Competitors: Exogenous and Endogenous Power Structures
Authors: Fu Ke , Lai Guoming , Shang Weixin , Xu Jiayan
Published: July 2024

Competing firms may engage in group buying (GB) to benefit from a quantity discount from a common supplier. We study GB under different power structures (i.e., Nash and Stackelberg) and investigate how the power structures can be endogenized along with the resulting GB outcome. We employ a game-theoretic framework in which two firms under Cournot competition can group their purchases if it is beneficial compared to individual purchasing. We show that under exogenous power structures, when the two firms have highly asymmetric market bases, Nash GB is unattainable due to severe co-opetition conflict, and Stackelberg GB can better resolve the conflict. Our results suggest that power structures may fundamentally affect firms’ GB incentives, and no power structure is always superior to others. We then endogenize the power structures of the two firms based on a two-stage extended game. Using Pareto-risk dominance, we identify conditions under which one firm endogenously emerges as the Stackelberg leader with the rival as the follower, as well as the conditions under which both firms endogenously choose Nash GB or opt for independent purchasing. We demonstrate that the two firms can largely resolve the battle for GB leadership and achieve an efficient outcome in most cases. Our study is the first to compare different exogenous power structures and consider endogenous power structures in the context of GB.
Hindfoot Alignment in Flexible Cavovarus Deformity Under Orthostatic and Coleman Block Test Positions: A Weightbearing Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Pires Eduardo Araujo , Lobo Carlos Felipe Teixeira , Fonseca Fabio Correa , Sposeto Rafael Barban , Barbachan Mansur Nacime Salomão , Easley Mark E. , de Cesar Netto Cesar , Godoy-Santos Alexandre Leme
Published: July 2024

Background:

Flexible cavovarus deformity is prevalent and the Coleman block test is frequently used to assess the first ray plantarflexion malpositioning in the overall deformity as well as the flexibility of the hindfoot. The objective was to assess and compare the weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) 3-dimensional (3D) changes in clinical and bone alignment in flexible cavovarus deformity patients when performing the Coleman block test when compared to normal standing position and to controls.

Methods:

Twenty patients (40 feet) with flexible cavovarus deformity and 20 volunteer controls (40 feet) with normal foot alignment underwent WBCT imaging of the foot and ankle. Cavovarus patients were assessed in normal orthostatic and Coleman block test positions. Foot and ankle offset (FAO), hindfoot alignment angle (HAA), talocalcaneal angle (TCA), subtalar vertical angle (SVA) and talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA) and a CT-simulated soft tissue envelope image, WBCT clinical hindfoot alignment angle (WBCT-CHAA), were evaluated by 2 readers. Measurements were compared between cavovarus nonstressed and stressed positions and to controls. P values of .05 or less were considered significant.

Results:

The intra- and interobserver intraclass correlation coefficient were good or excellent for all WBCT measurements. Cavovarus patients demonstrated significant correction of WBCT-CHAA (9.7 ± 0.4 degrees), FAO (2.6 ± 0.4%), and TNCA (8.8 ± 1.8 degrees) when performing the Coleman block test (all P values <.0001). However, WBCT-CHAA and FAO measurements were still residually deformed and significantly different from controls ( P values of .001 and <.0001, respectively). TNCA values corrected to values similar to healthy controls ( P = .29). No differences were observed in cavovarus patients during Coleman block test for the coronal measures: HAA, TCA, and SVA measurements.

Conclusion:

In this study, we observed improvement in the overall 3D WBCT alignment (FAO), axial plane adduction deformity (TNCA), as well as CT simulated clinical hindfoot alignment (WBCT-CHAA) in flexible cavovarus deformity patients when performing a Coleman block test. However, we did not find improvement in measures of coronal alignment of the hindfoot, indicating continued varus positioning of the hindfoot in these patients.
Explicit solutions in Cartesian coordinates for an elliptic hole in an infinite elastic plate
Authors: Oore Mordecai , Oore Sageev
Published: July 2024

An explicit analytical solution for an elliptical hole in an infinite elastic plate is derived for uniaxial load from the earliest work on this configuration. This is used along with the biaxial loading case and more recent solutions, available in curvilinear coordinates, to transform the stress fields into Cartesian coordinates along the x and y axes, reducing the curvilinear solutions to simplified short-form expressions of x and y. The present closed-form results are the functions of polynomials of the second and third order of x or y along the x or y axes, respectively, and have the most concise form to the best of the authors’ knowledge. The displacements for plain stress condition are calculated directly from the present stress field expressions, as functions of second-order polynomials of x or y and demonstrate overall consistency. Application of the present stress field and displacements results to special cases, such as a circular hole, a crack, and an elliptical hole in a pressurized cylindrical shell, are shown to agree with published solutions where available.
Predicting and explaining nonlinear material response using deep physically guided neural networks with internal variables
Authors: Ayensa-Jiménez Jacobo , Orera-Echeverría Javier , Doblare Manuel
Published: July 2024

Nonlinear materials are often difficult to model with classical state model theory because they have a complex and sometimes inaccurate physical and mathematical description, or we simply do not know how to describe such materials in terms of relations between external and internal variables. In many disciplines, neural network methods have emerged as powerful tools to identify very complex and nonlinear correlations. In this work, we use the very recently developed concept of physically guided neural networks with internal variables (PGNNIVs) to discover constitutive laws using a model-free approach and training solely with measured force–displacement data. PGNNIVs make a particular use of the physics of the problem to enforce constraints on specific hidden layers and are able to make predictions without internal variable data. We demonstrate that PGNNIVs are capable of predicting both internal and external variables under unseen loading scenarios, regardless of the nature of the material considered (linear, with hardening or softening behavior and hyperelastic), unravelling the constitutive law of the material hence explaining its nature altogether, endowing the method with some explanatory character that distances it from the traditional black box approach.
Stability analysis of thin cylindrical shells under pure and three-point bending
Authors: Máté Péter , Szekrényes András
Published: July 2024

Cylindrical shells curved in only one direction show an interesting behaviour when bent, especially if they remain completely in the elastic region and do not undergo plastic forming. This can be observed in their most common application: the measuring tape. They can be coiled easily because of the loss of stability of their cross-sections, which makes transportation of long shells efficient. This property could be very useful if one could use such a one-way curved shell as a beam, which could be transported and deployed easily. The aim of this study is to observe the behaviour of such a shell, under pure bending load, with special emphasis on the stability loss of the cross-section. In this paper, analytical, semi-analytical, and finite-element methods are used for the description of the shell. The solution derived here uses a variable cross-section Euler–Bernoulli beam model combined with elements of the Kirchhoff plate theory without the shallow shell assumption. It is assumed that the cross-section remains circular and does not change its length. For a universal description, dimensionless parameters and variables are introduced. The semi-analytical investigation revealed that the snap-through ability of the shell may not exist for certain cross-sections which can be presented on a stability map. The derived model reveals the existence of a limiting point between the cross-section deformation modes for larger cross-section angles. In the article, ready-to-use analytical and semi-analytical solutions are given for the critical load and stability map of these shells, which are compared to similar shallow shell models from the literature and the finite-element solution of the problem. The finite-element method also revealed that for a dimensionless description, a length-cross-section radius parameter should be introduced to describe the three-point bending scenario.
Transient mode-III problem of the elastic matrix with a line inclusion
Authors: Wang YS , Wang BL , Wang KF
Published: July 2024

The method of pull-out test has been used to identify the mechanical performance of hybrid and fiber-reinforced composite materials. This paper investigates the elastic phase preceding the pull-out of a rigid line inclusion from the polymer matrix with fixed top and bottom surfaces. The mode-III problem is investigated such that the pull-out force is applied from the out-of-plane direction and it can be either transient or static. By applying the singular integral equation technique, the semi-analytical elastic field expressions are obtained. Under the static pull-out force, the stress intensity factor (SIF) near the inclusion tip shows a monotonic increase as the length and height of the matrix increase, whereas for the transient pull-out force, the SIF displays an initial increasing and followed by a decline. The maximum SIF is obtained for (1) the matrix length is 2 to 2.5 times of the inclusion length, and (2) the matrix height is 1 to 2 times of the inclusion length. Moreover, this paper provides a solution approach that incorporates the elasticity of the inclusion, showing that there is an optimal shear stiffness that minimizes the stress singularity of system. The conclusions of this study hold significance for the design and performance evaluation of fiber-reinforced composite materials.
Being as Having, Loving, and Doing: A Theory of Human Well-Being
Authors: Martela Frank
Published: July 2024

Academic Abstract

Stronger theory on the nature of human well-being is needed, especially as well-being indicators are increasingly utilized in policy contexts. Building on Erik Allardt, who argued that a theory of well-being is, in essence, a theory of human nature, I propose four modes of existence each capturing one dimension central to human well-being: Having recognizes humans as biological creatures requiring certain material resources for survival. Loving captures human social nature and our dependence on others for well-being. Doing highlights the active and agentic nature of human existence. Being acknowledges humans as experiencing their existence. Each mode of existence gives rise to a few more specific needs, and a full assessment of human well-being requires both subjective and objective indicators tapping into these needs. The proposed theory integrates psychological well-being research with sociological and philosophical traditions and contributes to debates about how the progress of nations and sustainability should be measured.

Public Abstract

Well-being is something we all value individually, and it is also a key political goal. Accordingly, how we define and measure well-being influences what physicians, managers, policy-makers, politicians, and international organizations aim to improve through their work. Better theories of well-being make better measurement of well-being possible, which makes possible more effective and evidence-based advancement of human well-being. In this spirit, the present article argues that there are four fundamental dimensions to human well-being: Having highlights that as biological creatures, we have physical needs, loving highlights human social needs, doing highlights that we are active and agentic beings with goals and strivings, and being highlights that we feel and evaluate our lives. To assess well-being, we need measures tapping into all four of these dimensions. And to assess the sustainability of well-being, we need to examine how to provide well-being for all humanity while remaining within planetary boundaries.
Umbilical Cord Hemangiomas: A Multi-Institutional Case Series With Literature Review
Authors: Ferreira Elizabeth O. , Stefanovici Camelia , Kostadinov Stefan , Duncan Virginia
Published: July 2024

Umbilical cord hemangiomas are rare lesions, for which data on pregnancy outcome is lacking. This study combines a multi-institution 4-case series with a systematic literature search (n = 52) to determine possible pathologic lesion parameters which may have an effect on pregnancy outcome. Of all 56 pregnancies, lesion size ranged from 0.2 to 23.0 cm with pregnancy outcomes ranging from healthy liveborns (58.9%), liveborns with severe complications largely due to prematurity and/or fluid overload (12.5%), intrauterine/neonatal demise (25.0%), and pregnancy termination (3.6%). Of the 52 cases included for statistical analysis, there was no significant association between fetal outcome and vascular lesion location ( P = .12) or fetal outcome and single umbilical artery involvement versus involvement of other vasculature ( P = .29). The mean length of vascular lesions that resulted in healthy liveborns did not significantly differ from those resulting in severe fetal complications and/or demise ( P = .72). Cases resulting in severe complications and/or demise were significantly earlier at delivery than those resulting in healthy liveborns ( P < .001). Combined findings suggest that functional lesion characteristics, such as the degree of turbulent flow generated, have more significance than size, especially in early gestation losses. Moving forward, standardized reporting of pathologic lesion characteristics is paramount to better predict pregnancy prognosis.
Prevalence and significance of fovea plana in patients with epiretinal membrane
Authors: Lejoyeux R , Liberto J , Bonnin S , Le Mer Y , Bruneau S , Tadayoni R
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Fovea plana is indicative of an immature inner retina, yet its association with epimacular membrane (ERM) remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of fovea plana in the contralateral eye of patients diagnosed with ERM.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on consecutive patients in a monocentric tertiary ophthalmic department between January and April 2021. The study included all patients referred for ERM, with dense optical coherence tomography (OCT) B-scans utilized to assess the incidence of fovea plana in the contralateral eye. Patients with bilateral ERM were excluded from the analysis.

Results

Out of 181 patients, 26 exhibited fovea plana in the contralateral eye, resulting in an incidence rate of 14.3%. Demographic characteristics, OCT patterns, and indications for surgery did not differ significantly between patients with and without fovea plana.

Discussion

The prevalence of fovea plana in patients with ERM did not exhibit a statistically significant increase compared to the reported incidence in patients undergoing preoperative cataract surgery.

Conclusion

In our cohort, the incidence of fovea plana in patients with ERM was determined to be 14.3%.
The association between elevated blood estradiol level and corneal ectasia in women
Authors: Stanescu Nir , Arnon Roee , Yahalomi Tal , Nemet Achia , Cohen Itzhak , Pikkel Joseph
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the association between blood estradiol level and two different etiologies of corneal ectasia in premenopausal women.

Methods

This is an observational case-control study with three groups of women. Group 1 included women with keratoconus. Group 2 included women with post refractive surgery ectasia (PRSE). Group 3 was the control group. Venous blood for the measurement of estradiol was collected in order to assess the relationship between estradiol levels and ectasia. Participant's age, regular cycle (yes/no) and oral contraceptive pills (OCP) use (yes/no) was also documented. We compared the differences in estradiol levels between the 3 groups. Logistic regression was used to detect variables’ effect on participants’ chance to ectasia.

Results

Ninety-six women were enrolled: 36 (37%), 29 (30%), and 31 (32%) in the keratoconus, PRSE, and control group, respectively. The mean age of the participants was 29.8 ± 3.2, 31.9 ± 2.6, and 30.7 ± 3.5 years, respectively (p = 0.04, between groups 1 and 2). Estradiol levels [pg/mL] were 38.0 ± 2.4, 43.4 ± 2.4, and 28.6 ± 3.9, respectively ( p < 0.001, between any pair of groups). Two multivariate logistic regression models adjusted to age, regular cycle, and OCP use, indicated that higher blood estradiol levels were associated with an increased risk of ectasia (OR = 2.71 and 2.44, respectively; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Corneal ectasia may be associated with elevated blood estradiol levels. Estradiol measurements could be useful in women with keratoconus or in women who undergo refractive surgery.
Real-World Experience With Cemiplimab in Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Strum Scott , Climans Seth , Purcell Victoria , Black Morgan , Winquist Eric , Ernst Scott
Published: July 2024

Background:

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common nonmelanoma skin cancer in Canada. However, few real-world reports exist on the treatment of refractory locally advanced (LA) and metastatic cSCC with cemiplimab to date.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to characterize the demographic and clinical outcomes of advanced cSCC patients on cemiplimab in a real-world setting.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of adult patients with refractory LA and metastatic cSCC treated with cemiplimab at the London Regional Cancer Program in Canada. Patient demographics and treatment characteristics were reported, as well as Kaplan-Meier estimates of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results:

Forty patients were included in this study. Sixteen (40%) had LA disease and 24 (60%) had metastatic disease. Median treatment duration was 3.5 months (range: 0.6-29.4 months). Kaplan-Meier analyses of the entire study population revealed that the median OS was not reached [NR; 95% confidence interval (CI) 9.1 months-NR], but median PFS was 11.5 months (95% CI 7.0 months-NR). A total of 25% of patients experienced at least one adverse event from cemiplimab. Reasons for treatment discontinuation were death from any cause (25%), disease progression (15%), cemiplimab adverse events (5%), and other causes (15%).

Discussion:

The 12 month estimates of OS and PFS were lower than pivotal phase I and II clinical trials. However, toxicity was tolerable. Cemiplimab remains a safe and effective therapy in patients with refractory LA and metastatic cSCC disease.
Safety and effectiveness of disease-modifying therapies after switching from natalizumab
Authors: Zeineddine Maya , Al-Roughani Raed , Farouk Ahmed Samar , Khoury Samia , El-Ayoubi Nabil , Al-Mahdawi Akram , Al-Khabouri Jaber , Al-Asmi Abdullah , Chentouf Amina , Inshasi Jihad , Gouider Riadh , Mrabet Saloua , Shalaby Nevin , Massouh Joelle , Mohamed Ramzy Hasan Mohamed Farah , Al-Hajje Amal , Salameh Pascale , Dimassi Hani , Boumediene Farid , Yamout Bassem
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

One strategy to mitigate progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) risk is to switch to other highly effective disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). However, the optimal switch DMT following natalizumab (NTZ) discontinuation is yet to be determined.

Objective:

The objective of the study is to determine the most effective and tolerable DMTs to switch to following NTZ discontinuation due to John Cunningham virus (JCV) antibody positivity.

Methods:

This is a multicenter observational cohort study that included all stable relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who were treated with NTZ for at least 6 months before switching therapy due to JCV antibody positivity.

Results:

Of 321 patients, 255 switched from NTZ to rituximab/ocrelizumab, 52 to fingolimod, and 14 to alemtuzumab, with higher annualized relapse rate (ARR) in fingolimod switchers (0.193) compared with rituximab/ocrelizumab or alemtuzumab (0.028 and 0.032, respectively). Fingolimod switchers also had increased disability progression ( p = 0.014) and a higher proportion developed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions compared with rituximab/ocrelizumab (62.9% vs. 13.0%, p < 0.001, and 66.6% vs. 24.0%, p < 0.001, respectively). Mean drug survival favored rituximab/ocrelizumab or alemtuzumab over fingolimod ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Our study shows superior effectiveness of rituximab/ocrelizumab and alemtuzumab compared with fingolimod in stable patients switching from NTZ due to JC virus antibody positivity.
Better late than early: The effect of formal second language training on processing of evidentiality in Turkish-English bilinguals
Authors: Tosun Sümeyra , Filipović Luna
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate how bilingual speakers process information in a bilingual mode setting which was created using a translation production task. The target linguistic property was evidentiality. It is grammatical and obligatory in Turkish and lexical and optional in English. The stimuli consisted of simple declarative sentences which were varied based on the evidential meaning (firsthand vs. non-firsthand). Then participants judged how confident the witness was. Both tasks were performed by 58 late L2 English, late L2 Turkish and early Turkish-English bilingual speakers. The results demonstrated that participants translated firsthand information more correctly than the non-firsthand in all conditions. Translation direction also influenced the accuracy. Furthermore, participants’ confidence judgments varied based on their bilingualism history. We use CASP ( Complex Adaptive System Principles) Model for Bilingualism to formulate our predictions.
‘This is NOT human services’: Counter-mapping automated decision-making in social services in Australia
Authors: Sleep Lyndal
Published: July 2024

This paper offers a counter-map of automation in social services decision-making in Australia. It aims to amplify alternative discourses that are often obscured by power inequalities and disadvantage. Redden (2005) has used counter-mapping to frame an analysis of big data in government in Canada, contrasting with ‘dominant outward facing government discourses about big data applications’ to focus on how data practices are both socially shaped and shaping. This paper reports on a counter-mapping project undertaken in Australia using a mixed methods approach incorporating document analysis, interviews and web scraping to amplify divergent discourses about automated decision-making. It demonstrates that when the focus of analysis moves beyond dominant discourses of neoliberal efficiency, cost cutting, accuracy and industriousness, alternative discourses of service users’ experiences of automated decision-making as oppressive, harmful, punitive and inhuman(e) can be located.
A novel technology for harmonizing and analyzing cancer data. Observations from integrating health connect in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Authors: Dowden Jeffrey J , Pretty Ryan W , Shea Jennifer M , Dermody Matthew , Doyle Gregory , Antle Scott , Bond Dan
Published: July 2024

Objective: This article aims to describe the implementation of a new health information technology system called Health Connect that is harmonizing cancer data in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador; explain high-level technical details of this technology; provide concrete examples of how this technology is helping to improve cancer care in the province, and to discuss its future expansion and implications. Methods: We give a technical description of the Health Connect architecture, how it integrated numerous data sources into a single, scalable health information system for cancer data and highlight its artificial intelligence and analytics capacity. Results: We illustrated two practical achievements of Health Connect. First, an analytical dashboard that was used to pinpoint variations in colon cancer screening uptake in small defined geographic regions of the province; and second, a natural language processing algorithm that provided AI-assisted decision support in interpreting appropriate follow-up action based on assessments of breast mammography reports. Conclusion: Health Connect is a cutting-edge, health systems solution for harmonizing cancer screening data for practical decision-making. The long term goal is to integrate all cancer care data holdings into Health Connect to build a comprehensive health information system for cancer care in the province.
Classification of artificial intelligence techniques for early architectural design stages
Authors: Vissers-Similon Elien , Dounas Theodoros , De Walsche Johan
Published: July 2024

This paper provides a strategic classification of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques based on a systematic literature review and four levels of potential: the levels of input, output, collaboration and creativity. The classification demonstrates the potential and challenges of the AI techniques when used in early stages of architectural design. We aspire to help architects, researchers and developers to choose which AI techniques might be worth pursuing for specific tasks, optimising the use of today’s computational power in architectural design workflows. The results of the classification strongly indicate that Evolutionary Computing, Transformer Models and Graph Machine Learning hold the greatest potential for impact in early architectural design, and thus merit the attention to achieve that potential. Moreover, the classification assists with building multi-technique applications and helps to identify the most suitable AI technique for different circumstances such as the architect’s programming skills, the availability of training data or the nature of the design problem.
Physician-Modified Reversed Iliac Branch Device to Prevent Spinal Cord Ischemia in an Urgent Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Malik Karolina , Kölbel Tilo , Grandi Alessandro , Torrealba Jose , Rohlffs Fiona , Panuccio Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Repair of pararenal aneurysms poses a challenge, especially in an urgent setting. Despite the minimally invasive nature of the fenestrated/branched endovascular aortic repair, the technique may require extensive coverage of the aorta, increasing the risk of spinal cord ischemia.

Technique:

A 68-year-old man was admitted with a rapid enlargement of an asymptomatic juxtarenal aortic aneurysm. A minimally invasive treatment with an off-the-shelf branched endovascular graft was planned. Before completing the aneurysm exclusion, an angiography highlighted a large lumbar artery, potentially significant for the perfusion of the spinal cord collateral network. Owing to this finding and an unsuccessful placement of the cerebrospinal fluid drainage, the procedure was staged and completed 5 days later using a physician-modified iliac branch device (IBD) for the segmental artery. The device was shortened and reversely loaded to obtain a cranially-oriented branch. A balloon-expandable covered stent was used to connect the retrograde branch (8 mm) to the lumbar artery (4 mm). Pre-discharge computed tomography (CT)-angiography confirmed the vessel patency. No neurological symptoms occurred.

Conclusion:

The use of a reversely-loaded IBD for segmental artery preservation appears feasible and safe.

Clinical Impact

Intraoperative modification of an iliac branch device during an urgent branched endovascular aortic repair enabled preservation of a potentially critical segmental artery, thus reducing the risk of spinal cord ischemia. This adaptive interventional technique may also offer a strategy for preserving other anatomically significant vessels, such as accessory renal arteries, during complex aortic reconstructions in urgent settings.
Technical Aspects of Penumbra Indigo Lightning Flash System for Mechanical Thrombectomy of Pulmonary Embolism: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Coutas Tiago , Mannarino Matheus , Ventura Marcus , Fay João , Simões Ricardo , Mannarino Guilherme
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To demonstrate the technical aspects of the novel Penumbra Indigo Lightning Flash System (Penumbra, Inc.) for mechanical thrombectomy of pulmonary embolism (PE).

Technique:

The novel Penumbra Lightning Flash catheter is a 16 French (F) sheath-compatible device designed for advanced thrombectomy, especially in the pulmonary arteries. This device has large thrombus burden removal capacity; however, technical nuances are necessary to accomplish more with efficacy pulmonary embolism management. Access sites, pulmonary arteries catheterization technique, thrombectomy device navigation and mechanism of action are described thoroughly.

Conclusion:

Penumbra Indigo Lightning Flash system for mechanical thrombectomy as other catheter-directed treatments (CDTs) represents a major advance in contemporary PE management. With favorable safety profile and efficacy, CDTs have become an integral component of the multidisciplinary approach to PE care.

Clinical Impact

The article highlights the Penumbra Indigo Lightning Flash System as a significant advancement in mechanical thrombectomy for pulmonary embolism (PE). By detailing technical aspects and procedural nuances, it supports clinicians for improvement in endovascular PE management. The system’s integration into multidisciplinary care represents a major step forward, providing an effective alternative to traditional therapies, particularly for high-risk PE patients. This innovation promises to enhance patient outcomes in contemporary PE management.
Directional Femoral Ultrasound-Guided Compression Technique Using in Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ni Qihong , Zhao Yiping , Xue Guanhua , Guo Xiangjiang , Wang Weilun , Ye Meng , Chen Jiaquan , Zhang Lan
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The study aimed to investigate the early results of directional femoral ultrasound-guided compression technique (UCT) using in percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) for acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Methods:

Consecutive single-center patients with acute iliofemoral DVT who underwent PMT from January 2020 to December 2021 were included. Directional femoral UCT was used to adjust the PMT catheter into the residual thrombus in the inguinal region by ultrasound compression to improve the thrombus clearance rate. Patients were retrospectively analyzed and divided into 2 groups based on PMT with or without directional femoral UCT. The primary efficacy outcome was the incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) at 24-month follow-up. The secondary efficacy outcomes included common femoral venous thrombus removal grade, total thrombus removal grade, venous primary patency rate, and incidence of moderate-to-severe PTS at 24-month follow-up. The safety outcomes included complications, major bleeding events, and death at 24-month follow-up.

Results:

A total of 96 patients were included in the study: 42 patients underwent PMT with directional femoral UCT and 54 patients underwent PMT without UCT. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the 2 groups. The percentages of patients achieved common femoral venous thrombus removal grade 3 and total thrombus removal grade 3 were significantly higher in the PMT with UCT group than those in the PMT without UCT group (p<0.001). The 24-month primary patency rate was significantly higher in the PMT with UCT group than that in the PMT without UCT group (90.0% vs 71.2%, p=0.027). The incidence of PTS was significantly lower in the PMT with UCT group (10.0%) than that in the PMT without UCT group (28.8%) (p=0.027).

Conclusion:

PMT with directional femoral UCT could improve the thrombus clearance rate and primary patency rate of acute iliofemoral DVT and might decrease the incidence of PTS compared to traditional PMT treatment without UCT.

Clinical Impact

Residual thrombus in common femoral vein is a difficult problem associated with higher incidence of PTS. Few studies have focused on common femoral venous thrombus clearance. PMT with directional femoral UCT could improve the thrombus clearance rate and primary patency rate of acute iliofemoral DVT, and might decrease the incidence of PTS compared to traditional PMT treatment without UCT. Directional femoral UCT is recommended in PMT treatment of acute iliofemoral DVT.
Universal Screening for Student Mental Health: Selection of Norming Group
Authors: Plant Meagan Z. , Clark Kelly N.
Published: July 2024

The prevalence of student mental health concerns has increased the need for universal mental health screening to promote access to services. Some screeners determine risk status by comparing student scores to norming samples based on age (i.e., combined-gender) or on age and gender (i.e., separate-gender). This study examined scores on the Behavior Assessment System for Children–Third Edition, Behavioral and Emotional Screening System (BASC-3 BESS) using combined-gender and separate-gender norms for high school students ( N = 594). There were no statistically significant differences in adolescents’ self-reported BASC-3 BESS raw scores or risk status classification across genders. These findings suggest that school teams are likely to identify students’ mental health status similarly, regardless of whether they use BESS separate-gender or combined-gender norms, although some students’ risk status is expected to vary. These findings have the potential to inform best practice recommendations for school-wide screenings of mental health and identification of students at risk. Additional implications, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
Preserving Library Collections in South Asia: Techniques, Policies, and Capacity Building Programs in University Libraries
Authors: Bhat Tajamul Ahmad , Wani Zahid Ashraf , Parray Umer Yousuf , Rashid Shahid , Mir Shahid Maqbool , Haq Aamirul
Published: July 2024

The study explores the preservation policy and techniques employed in preserving library materials in three libraries in South Asia: Central University of Kashmir; Islamic University of Science and Technology; and University of Kashmir. The study aims to: investigate preservation policy/plan/division of selected libraries; investigate the current preservation technique used in the libraries; explore the category of staff responsible for preservation of library materials; and identify capacity building programs attended by staff at local, national/international level on preservation. Data collection was employed: results were tabulated, interpreted, and correlated with the published literature to ferret out meaningful findings and draw logical conclusions. The study reveals that: binding (sewing) and fumigation (solid fumigation) are widely employed techniques in preservation; manuscripts are mostly prioritized for preservation; and usually professionals are involved in dealing with preservation. However, none of the libraries possess preservation policies, which are crucial for the preservation of the library collection on a systematic and scientific basis. In order to cope with the changing environment of information preservation and management, libraries regularly organize seminars and conferences on preservation, and it is hoped that stakeholders continue to identify loopholes and to build capacity for preservation.
Virtual Loupes: A Pilot Study on the Use of Video Passthrough Augmented Reality in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Zeng Waylon , Ilo Cory , Bowman Douglas , Thompson James
Published: July 2024

Background

Plastic surgeons use loupes or operative microscope to aid in tissue dissection and anastomosis of structures. These devices have their own limitations in areas of visualization and weight. Current uses of augmented and virtual reality in surgery have been limited to operative planning and simulation. We present a proof of concept that harnesses video passthrough AR technology to augment the capabilities of loupes.

Methods

We first evaluated methods of gaze-based eye tracking to enable digital magnification. Using the Varjo XR-1 mixed reality headset, we compared discrete zoom through displayed pop-up menu vs continuous zoom through eye winking. Six participants were recruited to perform skin suturing simulation and completed a survey and interview. Next we assessed the performance and limitations of AR digital magnification. Varjo XR-3 was utilized to address the hardware limitations. Participants performed anastomotic suturing tasks with progressively finer suture, then completed a survey and interview.

Findings

There was no strong preference between zoom methods, although participants felt the discrete zoom was easier to use. Participants had difficulty determining depth and visualizing the suture due to limitations of digital magnification. Using Wilcoxon rank sum test to examine differences in system usability scale, the Phase 2 user experience had significant difference in percentile distribution ( P 0.0390).

Conclusion

Virtual loupes may be a valuable tool for plastic surgeons, with potential for variable magnification and advanced visualization. Improvements in the hardware yielded higher ratings of system usability and user experience. Further development is needed to address the limitations of existing devices.
Study of spreading, vibration, and fracture behavior of double droplets after positive collision
Authors: Sun Jinjuan , Ma Zhiheng , Tian Jianhui , Peng Runling
Published: July 2024

The droplet collision phenomenon is a more complex heat and mass transfer phase transition phenomenon, which is subject to the joint action of kinetics and thermodynamics. During the collision process, the mutual fusion interference of double droplets makes the kinetic mechanism after droplet collision more complicated, and its in-depth study can provide important theoretical support for the fields of engineering applications, industrial production and wetted wall design. In order to investigate the kinetic behavior of double droplets positive collision, this paper mainly combines experimental and numerical simulation methods to investigate the spreading, vibration and fracture characteristics of double droplets of the same volume after collision. Firstly, the rebound vibration of the fused droplet and single droplet is equivalent to a single-degree-of-freedom damped vibration system, and the spreading and vibration characteristics of the single droplet and the double droplets after collision under the same collision velocity are analyzed comparatively by experimental methods. The results show that when the droplet does not fracture, the spreading factor and damping coefficient of single droplet and double droplets gradually increase with the increase of collision velocity, and the vibration time gradually decreases. The damping coefficient and vibration time of the double droplets are higher than that of the single droplet, while the spreading factor is lower than that of the single droplet. Then, the double droplets positive collision phenomenon is studied in depth, and it is found that the spreading factor of the fused droplet increases with the increase of the droplet diameter, the collision velocity, and the wall contact angle. Affected by the low wall temperature, the fused droplet undergoes a phase transition, which affects the bottom flow of the droplet, leading to an increase in the damping coefficient and a decrease in the vibration time. With the decrease of the collision velocity and wall contact angle, the damping coefficient gradually increases and the vibration time decreases. Finally, the numerical simulation method reveals that rebound fracture and spreading fracture phenomena occur after double droplets positive collision, and the critical values of the collision velocity required for the occurrence of rebound fracture and spreading fracture are found. This provides a reliable theoretical basis for the study of the heat and mass transfer process after the collision of multiple droplets on the wall.
Influence of the constraints associated with the numerical game situations on the technical-tactical actions of U-11 football players in Spain
Authors: García-Angulo Francisco Javier , García-Angulo Antonio , Giménez-Egido José Maria , Ortega-Toro Enrique
Published: July 2024

The aim of the present study was to analyse the influence of the constraints led approach (CLA) systems, such as the playing space, the number of players and the numerical game situations (superiority, equality and numerical inferiority) on the technical-tactical actions of U-11 players in small-sided games (SSGs). A case study was developed where two of the CLA constraint systems were applied on three SSG where the dimensions of the game space were modified (SSG1: 160 m2 ; SSG2 and SSG3: 155 m2 ) and the numerical game situation against the opposing team (SSG1: equality; SSG2 and SSG3: superiority/inferiority). The study sample consisted of U-11 players (n = 8) competing at federated level in Spain (10.25 ± 0.45 years; 2.21 ± 0.61 years of experience). The results of this study show an very strong degree of association between the game modalities and the way of obtaining the ball (2Ln(BFp10) = 10.06) and a strong association between the game modalities and the zone of origin of the ball (2 Ln(BFp10) = 6.02). It should be noted that a positive association was found between games modes and ball height in obtaining the ball (2Ln(BFp10) = 4.06); type of conduction (2Ln(BFp10) = 5.88); technical action (2Ln(BFp10)= 2.32) and efficiency (2Ln(BFp10) = 4.04). These data can help coaches to optimize the training process of young players by modifying the training tasks based on the constraint systems proposed in this study.
Considerations for vertical jump testing in collegiate basketball players: The impact of immediate individual versus social comparison feedback and team leaderboard engagement
Authors: Philipp Nicolas M. , Nijem Ramsey M. , Blackburn Stryder D. , Cabarkapa Dimitrije , Scott Chelsi , Fry Andrew C.
Published: July 2024

Recent literature has shown that the provision of feedback can enhance vertical jump performance acutely, as well as chronically when implemented during phases of training. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of two types of visual feedback on performance and variability of countermovement jump-derived force-time characteristics in a cohort of male and female National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1 basketball players. Specifically, individual visual feedback (IVF) was compared to a form of social comparison feedback (SCF), and authors hypothesized there to be performance increases and more stable measures in the SCF condition. In line with this hypothesis, findings suggested significantly enhanced performance in the SCF condition for seven out of eight force-time metrics (e.g. jump height and reactive strength index modified). However, given the small between-condition effect sizes, differences between conditions may lack practical significance. Furthermore, findings suggested less between-jump variability in the SCF condition, compared to the IVF condition, making for a more stable assessment. This in particular makes for more reliable measures, for which when studied over time, more subtle changes in performance may be observed. In summary, our findings highlight acutely enhanced vertical jump performance, and more stable measures, when athletes are exposed to an SCF condition, compared to a normal IVF condition. Practitioners are encouraged to consider these findings when planning vertical jump assessments and are discouraged from implementing different types of feedback at random, especially when measuring performance over time.
A Bayesian agent-based model and software for wildfire safe evacuation planning and management
Authors: Pishahang Mohammad , Ruiz-Tagle Andres , Ramos Marilia A. , Droguett Enrique Lopez , Mosleh Ali
Published: July 2024

Efficient evacuation of wildfire-threatened communities is a pressing challenge. A reliable evacuation planning and execution requires a comprehensive understanding of the diverse and interdependent physical, social, and behavioral components, and advanced, yet easy to use decision support system. This paper proposes the Wildfire Safe Egress (WiSE) framework, which integrates the fire dynamics, human behavior, and traffic model to predict the chance of safe egress by any given community during a wildfire evacuation. WISE framework presents a unified dependency diagram and workflow offering consistent granularity between sub-models and creates comparable evacuation scenarios. A human behavior model is proposed to predict the community decision making and action based on their socio-demographic vulnerability profile. An agent-based stochastic approach generates evacuation departure times. The travel times are calculated through a congestion-informed traffic simulation. Finally, a Bayesian Network is used to combine the sub-models and to predict community safety (probability of successful evacuation) via probabilistic inference based on the integrated model. A proof-of-concept software implementation of the WiSE framework is also presented. To demonstrate the model and platform capabilities the evacuation of the entire city of Paradise during the California Camp Fire 2018 is simulated. The simulation results are qualitatively validated by the firefighters who served in this disaster. A sensitivity analysis of the parameters is performed to compare several evacuation scenarios and provide insights for future wildfire evacuation plannings.