bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The origins and early history of Canada’s Cold War scientific intelligence, 1946-65
Authors: Wiseman Matthew S.
Published: July 2022

In the process of creating the policies and structures that led to the formal organization of Canada’s Defence Research Board after the end of the Second World War, senior military and defence officials in Ottawa conceptualized and established a scientific intelligence bureau within the defence department. Recognizing the heightened military significance of science during the war, defence officials believed that scientific intelligence—the practice of analyzing scientific information for forecasting the weapons and warfare potential of enemy countries—could support and improve Canada’s military preparedness efforts in the immediate postwar period. Using recently opened government and military records, this article explores the origins and history of Canadian scientific intelligence during the early Cold War, framing the topic as useful for understanding Canada’s military past and Ottawa’s approach to some of the country’s top security and defence issues of the late 1940s through the mid-1960s.
The influence of the mass media on delusions: The Russia-Ukraine war as a delusional topic
Authors: Cegla-Schvartzman Fanny , Llaguno Marina , Baca-García Enrique , Ovejero Santiago
Published: July 2022

We present the case of a 42-year-old female patient with a diagnosis of schizophrenia who, 24 hours after the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, developed a delirium on this topic. This case report illustrates how current news is processed by psychotic patients. Relevant current events can be incorporated into delusional themes due to the intensity and immediacy of information by the media.
Factorial Validity, Reliability, Measurement Invariance and the Graded Response Model for the COVID-19 Anxiety Scale in a Sample of Ecuadorians
Authors: Moreta-Herrera Rodrigo , Caycho-Rodríguez Tomás , Salinas Alexandra , Jiménez-Borja Micaela , Gavilanes-Gómez Daniel , Jiménez-Mosquera Carlos José
Published: July 2022

The aims of the research are to evaluate the factorial validity, internal consistency, measurement invariance, discrimination, and difficulty of the Covid-19 Anxiety Scale (CAS) applied to a sample of Ecuadorian adults ( N = 451). The study is based on an instrumental design with Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Item Response Theory (IRT) technics. The results confirmed the validity of the CAS single-factor structure, with measurement invariance across gender and high internal consistency. Additionally, all CAS items displayed adequate discrimination indexes and proper ordering of the difficulty thresholds. In a conclusion, the CAS is a valid measurement scale for Ecuadorian adults.
A hybrid optimization algorithm for gate locations in the liquid composite molding process
Authors: Liu Junling , Xie Junbo , Chen Li
Published: July 2022

It is costly to optimize the location of multiple injection gates through a trial and error-based method in the liquid composite molding, even though there are high fidelity physics-based numerical models. A hybrid optimization method called the Simulated Annealing Genetic Algorithm is proposed in this article, which uses the genetic algorithm to provide a global search for a predetermined time and then is further improved by the simulated annealing algorithm. The optimization results of multiple injection gates show that the number of convergence iterations using the Simulated Annealing Genetic Algorithm is less than that using the genetic algorithm, and the phenomenon becomes more obvious as the number of injection gates increases. The case shows that the Simulated Annealing Genetic Algorithm can solve the multiple injection gate configuration problems of highly anisotropic laminates without extra work. The optimization results are in good agreement with the experimental results.
Sustainable silk dyeing in a silicon non-aqueous dyeing system with Reactive Red 195: salt-free and less alkali
Authors: Luo Yuni , Zhu Lei , Pei Liujun , Cai Zaisheng , Wang Jiping
Published: July 2022

Conventional dyeing processes usually generate a huge amount of wastewater, and in general, silk dyeing with reactive dyes using large amounts of salt and alkali has a great environmental impact. Herein, a green approach for a new dyeing system involving silk fabric dyed with reactive dyes in a silicon non-aqueous dyeing system without salt was reported. The optimal dyeing parameters of silk fabric dyed in this green dyeing system without alkali were 90°C for 75 minutes and with alkali were 70°C for 75 minutes, and the Reactive Red 195 exhibited good dye permeability, superior exhaustion, high fixation rate, and good dyeing depth, indicating the high utilization of dye and less effluent discharge. The color fastness of silk fabric dyed in the silicon non-aqueous dyeing system was comparable to silk fabric dyed in the conventional water bath. In addition, the fixation rate and K/ S value were improved by the addition of 0.4% (o.w.f) NaHCO3, which cannot be obtained in a conventional water bath, and all silk fabrics showed better tensile strength dyed in the green dyeing system. Therefore, the sustainable green dyeing method with a silicon non-aqueous system achieved a salt-free, less alkali or alkali-free, and simple process, which has the potential to solve the problems of wastewater, high salt, and high alkali in conventional dyeing processes.
A robust model predictive control-based method for fault detection and fault tolerant control of quadrotor UAV
Authors: Mohammadi Arman , Ramezani Amin
Published: July 2022

In this study, first a model predictive control (MPC) solution is utilized to control the quadrotor model in both fault-free and faulty modes by employing a cost function. For this aim, the obtained non-linear continuous model has been discretized after linearization around an equilibrium point. Then, a fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) and fault tolerant control (FTC) strategy is proposed based on MPC in order to neutralize the effect of fault. The method of FDD and FTC designing is based on analytical redundancy relations (ARRs) which detects and tolerates the fault by producing a residual signal. Therefore, this method presents a complete FTC solution to fault issue without using observer. In addition, this solution has robustness against the uncertainties and disturbances which may challenge the model in practical situations. The discussed fault in this paper is a sensor fault which is modeled as an undesired function which affects the sensor of roll angle. However, the proposed FTC can tolerate all types of faults. The results of implementation of this method are validated under various simulation scenarios.
Evaluating the Use of Video Modeling With Voiceover Instructions to Train Therapists to Deliver Caregiver Training Through Telehealth
Authors: Preas Elizabeth , Carroll Regina A. , Van Den Elzen Gabriella , Halbur Mary , Harper Megan
Published: July 2022

Caregiver training is an important component of behavioral intervention; however, many barriers exist for in-person training. Alternatively, behavioral therapists may use telehealth as a service delivery method. To effectively train caregivers through telehealth, therapists should receive explicit training, but there has been limited research on effective methods for teaching this skill. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate video modeling with voice-over instruction (VMVO) to train therapists to implement 11 component skills of caregiver training through telehealth to teach confederate caregivers to implement a guided compliance procedure. We measured the therapist’s implementation of the component skills during a scripted role-play before and after video-model training within a multiple baseline design across participants. We also conducted maintenance and generalization probes to a novel skill. All seven therapists learned the skill, but three therapists required a feedback component in addition to the VMVO. The results suggest that VMVO may be an efficient and effective method for training therapists to conduct caregiver training via telehealth. Furthermore, results indicate that component skill analyses may be valuable to monitor skills that require remediation.
Improving the Lives of Leaders: The Beneficial Effects of Positive Leader Self-Reflection
Authors: Lanaj Klodiana , Foulk Trevor A. , Jennings Remy E.
Published: July 2022

Leader identity theory posits that, in addition to being positional, leadership is also a malleable state of mind. This means that even employees holding positions of authority within their organization may be nudged to identify more strongly with their leader role on some days versus others. The leadership literature, however, is silent about predictors that may prime leader identity day-to-day. We draw from leader identity theory and research on expressive writing to propose that leader identity can be activated daily via positive leader self-reflection (e.g., reflecting and writing about qualities that make one a good leader) in ways that are beneficial for the leader both at work and at home. We tested our theoretical expectations in two field experiments. In the first study, as expected, we find that leaders reported higher activated leader identity and more goal progress on intervention (vs. control) days. In turn, activated leader identity and goal progress enhanced leader well-being measured in the evening at home. Surprisingly, and contrary to expectations, the well-being enhancing effects of positive leader self-reflection were weaker for leaders who were higher (vs. lower) in identity fusion with their followers. In the second study, we demonstrate the malleable nature of leader identity by showing not only that positive leader self-reflection activates leader identity, but also that negative leader self-reflection diminishes its activation.
Book review: Purushottama Bilimoria and Aleksandra Wenta (Eds.), Emotions in Indian Thought Systems
Authors: Shankar Shardul
Published: July 2022

Purushottama Bilimoria and Aleksandra Wenta (Eds.), Emotions in Indian Thought Systems. New Delhi: Routledge India, 2015, pp. 287.
Granular cell tumor of the appendix: a case report and literature review
Authors: Lv Xing , Sun Xiaodong , Zhou Jianpeng , Zhang Yang , Lv Guoyue
Published: July 2022

A granular cell tumor (GCT) is an unusual benign soft tissue tumor that can occur at any age and in any part of the body. GCTs are mostly found in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, bronchi, esophagus, breast tissue, and tongue. A GCT originating in the digestive tract, particularly in the appendix, is relatively rare and usually diagnosed as an incidental finding. We herein describe the first case of abdominal distension and occasional pain secondary to a GCT of the appendix in our hospital. The findings from this case suggest that a GCT of the appendix is a rare entity for which surgical resection is an efficient therapy.
Thyroid hormone resistance syndrome due to a novel heterozygous mutation and concomitant Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A pedigree report
Authors: Xie Zongyan , Li ChenFei , An Yaxin , Zhao Dong , Wang Xuhong
Published: July 2022

Thyroid hormone resistance syndrome (THRS) is a rare disease characterized by reduced sensitivity to thyroid hormones. Mutations in the thyroid hormone receptor beta ( THRB) gene are considered as contributing to the pathogenesis. This report describes a Chinese pedigree with THRS and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) due to novel point mutation in the 11th exon of the THRB gene (c. 1378 G > A). The proband complained of goitre with increased thyroid hormone and normal thyroid stimulating hormone levels. Gene sequencing was performed to confirm the diagnosis. HT was also diagnosed based on positive thyroid autoantibodies and diffuse, grid-like changes in the thyroid on ultrasound examination. Additionally, a comprehensive examination of the proband’s pedigree was conducted. The patient’s father exhibited the same gene mutation site and was diagnosed with THRS and HT. No mutation site was detected in three patients with HT only and three healthy volunteers. Thus, gene sequencing should be considered the gold standard for diagnosing THRS. Furthermore, treatment should be individualized to control the patient’s symptoms rather than normalizing thyroid hormone levels. Further studies that determine the relationship between THRS and TH are warranted.
The central-peripheral dichotomy and metacontrast masking
Authors: Zhaoping Li , Liu Yushi
Published: July 2022

According to the central-peripheral dichotomy (CPD), feedback from higher to lower cortical areas along the visual pathway to aid recognition is weaker in the more peripheral visual field. Metacontrast masking is predominantly a reduced visibility of a brief target by a brief and spatially adjacent mask when the mask succeeds rather than precedes or coincides with the target. If this masking works mainly by interfering with the feedback mechanisms for target recognition, then, by the CPD, this masking should be weaker at more peripheral visual locations. We extended the metacontrast masking at fovea by Enns and Di Lollo to visual field eccentricities 1[Formula: see text], 3[Formula: see text], and 9[Formula: see text]. Relative to the target’s onset, the mask appeared at a stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) of [Formula: see text], 0, 50, 92, or 142 milliseconds (ms). Enlarged stimuli were used for larger eccentricities to equalize target discrimination performance across eccentricities as best as possible for zero SOA and when SOA was too long for substantial masking. At each eccentricity, the masking was weakest at 0 or [Formula: see text] ms SOA, strongest at 50 ms SOA, and weakened with larger (positive) SOAs. Consistent with the CPD, larger eccentricities presented weaker maskings at all nonzero, and particularly the positive, SOAs.
Adopting a Bi-level Optimization Method for the Freight Transportation Problem: A Multi-objective Programming Approach
Authors: Rahiminia Shahab , Mehrabi Amir , Pourseyed Aghaee Mohsen , Jamili Amin
Published: July 2022

Nowadays, various companies find it a crucial task to elevate their distribution system efficiency to survive in what is an intensely competitive environment. Freight transportation via road systems may not always be a practical option for the shipper because of financial, social, and environmental aspects. So, in addition to the road system, the shipper can benefit greatly from the rail system. Thus, taking advantage of different transportation modes can help shippers to tackle, to some extent, arising issues. In this paper, we aim at investigating a freight transportation network including rail and road transportation modes in which the shipper’s choice affects the decisions deeply. Given that this problem as a bi-level programming model, the rail operator acts as a leader and the shipper is treated as a follower. Once the rail operator reveals the rail transportation price, an appropriate response is received from the shipper and this pattern is repeated until an equilibrium is achieved. From the sustainability view, a multi-objective mixed-integer programming model is developed to simulate their interactions considering a sustainable triple bottom line. Employing the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker approach, we converted the formulated bi-level programming model into a single one. Several numerical examples are investigated to evaluate the validity of the developed model and approaches. Different in-depth sensitivity analyses are carried out and the impacts of several factors, such as line and train capacity, on the rail operator and shipper’s decisions are investigated. The results reveal that the rail operator could increase their market share by a wise long-term investment in the rail infrastructure.
Developing Car-Following Models for Winter Maintenance Operations Incorporating Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Kamjoo Ehsan , Saedi Ramin , Zockaie Ali , Ghamami Mehrnaz , Gates Timothy , Talebpour Alireza
Published: July 2022

Car-following models have been explored thoroughly for different vehicle types, such as cars and trucks. Although snowplows can be classified as trucks, their unique physical and operational characteristics impose a distinct following behavior. Michigan Department of Transportation has recently tested a collision avoidance system to reduce rear-end crashes. The incorporated radar in this system provides valuable information, defining two objectives for this study: (1) investigating the impacts of snowplows on car-following behavior considering car–car and car–snowplow vehicle-type combinations; (2) exploring the effects of the proposed collision avoidance system on car-following behavior by comparing car-following models for collected data with and without such a system. Firstly, space and time headway analyses are performed to compare different vehicle-type combinations. Then, the Gipps’ model is calibrated, and two data-driven car-following models are trained incorporating support vector regression and a long short-term memory network. These models are calibrated/trained to evaluate the performance of models with and without considering the heterogeneity of driving behavior among road users. The results indicate that the presence of snowplows leads to statistically significant different car-following models. Besides, it is shown that the collision avoidance system slightly improves the behavior of the following vehicles, which is not statistically significant. Also, it is concluded that considering driving behavior heterogeneity leads to more realistic prediction of the following behavior, compared to assuming homogeneous driving styles in traffic. Finally, the performances of the three developed car-following models are compared. Developing specific models for winter maintenance operations is an early step toward developing microsimulation models for adverse weather conditions.
Use of a Novel Multimodal Imaging Technique to Model In Vivo Quadriceps Force and ACL Strain During Dynamic Activity
Authors: Englander Zoë A. , Foody Jacqueline N. , Cutcliffe Hattie C. , Wittstein Jocelyn R. , Spritzer Charles E. , DeFrate Louis E.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Quadriceps loading of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) may play a role in the noncontact mechanism of ACL injury. Musculoskeletal modeling techniques are used to estimate the intrinsic force of the quadriceps acting at the knee joint.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this paper was to develop a novel musculoskeletal model of in vivo quadriceps force during dynamic activity. We used the model to estimate quadriceps force in relation to ACL strain during a single-leg jump. We hypothesized that quadriceps loading of the ACL would reach a local maximum before initial ground contact with the knee positioned in extension.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Six male participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging in addition to high-speed biplanar radiography during a single-leg jump. Three-dimensional models of the knee joint, including the femur, tibia, patellofemoral cartilage surfaces, and attachment-site footprints of the patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon, and ACL, were created from the magnetic resonance imaging scans. The bone models were registered to the biplanar radiographs, thereby reproducing the positions of the knee joint at the time of radiographic imaging. The magnitude of quadriceps force was determined for each knee position based on a 3-dimensional balance of the forces and moments of the patellar tendon and the patellofemoral cartilage contact acting on the patella. Knee kinematics and ACL strain were determined for each knee position.

Results:

A local maximum in average quadriceps force of approximately 6500 N (8.4× body weight) occurred before initial ground contact. ACL strain increased concurrently with quadriceps force when the knee was positioned in extension.

Conclusion:

This novel participant-specific modeling technique provides estimates of in vivo quadriceps force during physiologic dynamic loading. A local maximum in quadriceps force before initial ground contact may tension the ACL when the knee is positioned in extension.

Clinical Relevance:

These data contribute to understanding noncontact ACL injury mechanisms and the potential role of quadriceps activation in these injuries.
The Vascularization Course of Labral Autograft and Its Effect on Tissue Healing: Acetabular Labral Augmentation Versus Labral Reconstruction in a Porcine Model
Authors: Su Tiao , Ao Yunong , Yang Liu , Chen Guang-xing
Published: July 2022

Background:

The preservation of the native labral vascularization is assumed to be the potential advantage of acetabular labral augmentation, the effect of which remains unknown.

Purpose:

To identify the vascular distribution within the labral autograft and its effect on the healing process between labral augmentation (AUG) and reconstruction (RECON) in a porcine model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 36 pigs randomly underwent unilateral labral augmentation or reconstruction (AUG group, n = 18; RECON group, n = 18). The pigs were randomly sacrificed at 6, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively. The labral autografts were harvested for macroscopic evaluation and histologic assessment. The labral autograft was zoned into 2 halves to observe the vascular distribution: the capsular half (zone I) and the articular half (zone II). Each zone was divided into 2 parts: the peripheral part (IA and IIA) and the part attached to the acetabulum (IB and IIB).

Results:

At 6 weeks, there existed more vascular ingrowth in zone I, whereas zone IIB appeared nearly avascular in both groups. At 12 weeks, the area with the greatest vascularity was zone II in the RECON group and zone IA in the AUG group. The vascularity was concentrated at zones IA and IIA in both groups at 24 weeks. The labral autografts were hypertrophic with sufficient filling of the labral defect in both groups at 6 weeks. At 12 weeks, an insufficient volume of the articular half was observed in 3 of 6 labral autografts in the RECON group, while all autografts remained well integrated with the chondrolabral junction in the AUG group. At 24 weeks, unsatisfactory merging of the labral autograft with the cartilage at the articular side was found in 2 of 6 labral autografts in the RECON group, which was not observed in the AUG group despite the sufficient volume of autografts labrum in both groups.

Conclusion:

Slow vascular ingrowth within the articular half might account for the poor healing of the reconstructed labral autograft. Labral augmentation provides the possibility of better tissue healing because of the preservation of the original chondrolabral junction compared with labral reconstruction.

Clinical Relevance:

Labral augmentation might be a feasible alternative to labral reconstruction under the condition of viable labral remnants.
The Value of Rural and Urban Public Infrastructure
Authors: Albouy David , Kim Heejin
Published: July 2022

The authors estimate the value of public infrastructure using a panel of rural and urban counties in the United States from 1970 to 2012. Regression estimates imply public infrastructure increases employment more in urban counties, while improving property values more in rural ones; positive effects on income are similar. Spatial equilibrium modeling suggests public capital has similar quality-of-life and productivity benefits in urban and rural areas but does more to reduce costs of providing housing in urban ones. While public investments in rural and urban counties appear to pass conventional cost–benefit tests, dollar-per-dollar they are more valuable in urban counties.
The use of sintered silver-hydroxyapatite powder added electrodes in electrical discharge machining of Ti-6Al-4 V
Authors: Özdemir Damla , Ekmekci Bülent
Published: July 2022

Al and V ion release from the Ti-6Al-4 V implants due to the long-term interactions with body fluids can cause diseases such as Alzheimer’s, neuropathy, and osteomalacia. Therefore, it is aimed to increase the bonding and biocompatibility between bone and implant by changing the surface roughness, topography, and chemical composition of Ti-6Al-4 V alloy with different physical, chemical, and mechanical methods. The study proposes to obtain a porous surface coated with Ag-Ca-P on a Ti-6Al-4 V workpiece by the use of sintered silver-hydroxyapatite powder added to electrodes in Electrical Discharge Machining. Micronized silver and hydroxyapatite powders were mixed in different proportions by volume using the powder metallurgy method to achieve the proposed aims. A parametric experimental study was conducted and the surface properties of the treated samples were analyzed by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion spectroscopy, and X-ray diffractometry. The results have confirmed the formation of a porous silver-hydroxyapatite-rich layer on the electrical discharged machined Ti-6Al-4 V surfaces. Therefore, it has been concluded that electrical discharge machining is a promising alternative method for obtaining biocompatible functional surfaces.
Physical, chemical and thermal analysis of banana flower pistil fiber for the potential application of composite manufacturing
Authors: Dhanenderan N. , Uvaraja V.C. , Bensam Raj J. , Malarkodi P.
Published: July 2022

Natural fibers are good substitute for polymer fibers due to its better characteristics like biodegradable, low cost and no harmful release. The purpose of this research is to identify a natural fiber with low cost and good characteristics. Hence, in this research, an attempt has been made to analyze the physical, chemical and thermal properties of banana flower pistil fiber (BPF). The fibers were involved into chemical treatment such as alkali (5%, 7.5% and 10%). The effect of chemical treatment on the properties of fiber was analyzed. Structural properties were analyzed by X- Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The thermal properties were tested by Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Further, the water absorption ability of the treated and untreated fiber was investigated. Results showed that the chemically treated fiber (5% alkali) displayed good physical, chemical and thermal properties compared to untreated fiber. Hence, the chemically treated BPF could be useful in the fabrication of bio-composites for industrial applications.
Thermophysical properties and grain size effects in Luffa Cylindrica-modified clay composites for thermal insulation
Authors: Azaka Onyemazuwa Andrew , Umeobi Happiness Ijeoma , Obika Echezona Nnaemeka
Published: July 2022

The study explored the thermal insulation potential of composite material made from clay and Luffa cylindrica. Clay/ Luff cylindrica composite (denoted as Clay/L-C) was developed from natural resources. In the research, Luffa cylindrica particles of different grain sizes and different proportions were mixed with clay, and thermal evaluations were done with respect to thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity, mass depletion with temperature, and microstructure. Two different mixture ratios, namely 4:1and 3:2 corresponding to 20 wt % and 40 wt % Luffa cylindrica particle, respectively, were used for Clay/ Luffa cylindrica combination. While Luffa cylindrica particle sizes varied from 600µm to 300µm and 150µm, the effects of Luffa cylindrica content and particle size on thermal properties were then examined. These novel composite materials developed in this study demonstrate motivating potential for enhanced thermal insulation when compared to unmodified clay. Improved thermal insulation performance indicated by thermal properties was observed for all the modified samples. This is on the account of reduced thermal conductivity of the modified samples. The best sample possessed thermal conductivity, thermal resistivity, thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity, and porosity values of 0.216 W/mK, 462.90°C.cm/W, 0.123 mm/s2 1.493 MJ/m3K, and 89.3%, respectively. Results show that Luffa cylindrica fiber can be applied as an additive for effective thermal insulation. Development in this area of study is very necessary especially as the raw materials are readily available and cost-effective.
Perinatal Depression as a Growing Mental Health Concern: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jhawar Sheenu , Gupta S. D. , Das Arindam
Published: July 2022

Mental health today, is a rising concern the world over. In order to focus prevention strategies and treatment options, it is important to study the types, and attributes, of illnesses under mental health. Among all types, depression is found to be the major contributor to the global burden of this disease and it is found to affect more women than men. Among women, perinatal depression is a serious and highly prevalent form of depression that affects women of childbearing age. Perinatal depression comprises of antenatal depression (AD) and postnatal depression (PD). AD is a precursor of PD and while it negatively impacts the health of the woman herself, it also has potential adverse effects on the health and socio-psychological development of the new born. Research from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) finds prevalence of AD at 25.8%, and of PD at 19.7%. In spite of this, while studies on PD are available, studies and understanding of AD are limited and have not received the desired attention of the scientific community. Various global and local organisations have done policy advocacy on mental health, and to some extent within this framework, on perinatal depression, however, focus is still required in the LMICs for strengthening health systems for prevention and treatment.
Metabolic and clinical profiles of young people with mood or psychotic disorders who are prescribed metformin in an inpatient setting
Authors: Wilson Chloe , Carpenter Joanne , Park Shinho , McHugh Catherine , Scott Elizabeth M , Hickie Ian B
Published: July 2022

Objective

Youth with early-onset mood or psychotic disorders are occasionally prescribed metformin to manage cardiometabolic risk. This retrospective study explores the demographic, clinical and metabolic factors associated with metformin prescription youth with mood or psychotic disorders.

Method

Participants included 72 youth with mood or psychotic disorders from a young adult mental health inpatient unit, of which 18 (33%) were newly prescribed metformin, and 54 (66%) were not prescribed metformin. Demographic and clinical information were extracted from the patients’ medical files along with body mass index (BMI), fasting serum bloods and calculated updated homeostatic model of insulin resistance assessment (HOMA2-IR) scores to compare profiles between groups.

Results

Of those prescribed metformin, 83% were overweight or obese and 72% had elevated HOMA2-IR scores. Of those not receiving metformin treatment, 41% were overweight or obese and 22% had elevated HOMA2-IR scores. Youth prescribed metformin had significantly higher BMI, and elevated markers of insulin resistance, but did not differ to those not prescribed metformin on other demographic, clinical or metabolic factors.

Conclusions

While metformin is prescribed to some youth with mood or psychotic disorders displaying markers of cardiometabolic disturbance, there is a need to develop clearer treatment guidelines for metformin in these youth.
“Papillary Adenoma-like” Renal Tumor with TFE3 Gene Rearrangement, A Potential Precursor to or Early Event in the Development of TFE3 Translocation Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Algarrahi Khalid , Omoscharka Evanthia , Zhou Ming
Published: July 2022

MiT family translocation renal cell carcinomas harbor gene fusion involving members of MiT family of transcription factors. Their precursor lesions have not been identified. Herein, we report the first case of small papillary tumors morphologically resembling papillary adenomas but harboring TFE3 gene alteration. The patient was a 23-year old man with multiple small papillary tumors in the right kidney discovered following a gunshot wound injury. These lesions were < 5 mm, well-circumscribed but not encapsulated tubulopapillary proliferation lined with a single layer of cuboidal cells with WHO/ISUP grade 1 or 2 nuclei. The tumor cells were immunoreactive to PAX8, AMACR, high molecular weight cytokeratin, and keratin 7 and negative for CD10, CA9, TTF1, and cathepsin K. Morphologically and immunohistochemically, these lesions were diagnosed as papillary adenomas. TFE3 gene rearrangement was confirmed by fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) using a TFE3 break-apart probe. We term these tumors “papillary adenoma-like” renal tumor with TFE3 gene rearrangement. These tumors are likely a precursor to or represent an early event in the development of TFE3 translocation renal cell carcinomas. An understanding of such tumors to translocation renal cell carcinoma progression can provide insight into the pathogenic mechanism, and ultimately aid the diagnosis and management of translocation renal cell carcinoma.
Does making less effort entail satisfaction? A large empirical study on client relationship services
Authors: Ardelet Caroline , Benavent Christophe
Published: July 2022

The customer effort score has become one of the indicators most monitored by companies in recent years. The idea is that the less effort customers exert when interacting with a brand, the more satisfied they will be, the more likely they will recommend and continue interacting with the brand. In this article, we explore the actual relationship between the client’s effort to solve the problem that led them to contact the brand and the satisfaction derived from this interaction. We present a weekly survey conducted over 2 years, covering 314 194 interactions with 96 brands from 2016 to 2017. The results show a negative effect of client effort intensity on satisfaction, except in some situations where effort intensity increases satisfaction, with an interaction effect of the interaction channel, and the business sector.
Communication partners experiences of communicating with adults with severe/profound intellectual disability through augmentative and alternative communication: A mixed methods systematic review
Authors: Hanley Edina , Martin Anne-Marie , Dalton Caroline , Lehane Elaine
Published: July 2022

People with severe/profound intellectual disability experience challenges in communicating and require their communication partners to adapt to their means of communication. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is recognised as a potential means to meet their communication needs. Interventions need to be aimed at both the individual and their communication partners. We conducted a mixed methods systematic review of the literature to synthesise evidence on communication partners experience of communicating with adults with severe/profound intellectual disability through AAC. Eight publications met the inclusion criteria, they underwent thematic synthesis where four themes emerged. A shared commitment to communication partnership is fundamental for the effective and efficient use of AAC. However, there was a disconnect between communication partners perceptions of their roles and responsibilities. This review prompts further research to explore communication partners perceptions of their roles and responsibilities in the use of AAC with people with severe/profound intellectual disabilities.
A case of freestyle valve reoperation 23 years after the first operation
Authors: Kawaida Taiki , Tanabe Hiroaki , Kato Yuji , Yamazaki Shintaro , Hosaka Kimio , Toyama Masaaki
Published: July 2022

We present a case of redo stentless valve operation in a 73-year-old man who underwent aortic valve replacement via the subcoronary approach with a freestyle aortic bioprosthesis 23 years ago at our institution. He was referred for surgery because an echocardiogram showed severe aortic regurgitation due to structural valve deterioration, and aortic valve replacement was planned. Severe circumferential calcification and adhesion were noted during the surgery between the freestyle and native roots. Redo-aortic valve replacement was successful despite the technical difficulty. In stentless valve reoperations following aortic valve replacement via the subcoronary method, the planning of valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation and sutureless valve implantation may be a practical and safe strategy.
Social Media Natives’ Invisible Online Spaces: Proposing the Concept of Digital Gemeinschaft 2.0
Authors: Salte Luise
Published: July 2022

This study proposes the concept of “digital Gemeinschaft 2.0,” through examining Rich Ling’s employment of Ferdinand Tönnies’ Gesellschaft (market society) and Gemeinschaft (fellowship), when conceptualizing the “digital Gemeinschaft.” Drawing on 11 in-depth interviews with social media natives in Norway, it identifies three recurring themes, reflecting (1) a Gesellschaft attentiveness, (2) continued Gemeinschaft, with occasional public orientations, and (3) information gathering and learning without direct public partaking. This study emphasizes social media natives’ utilization of social media for maintaining social relationships through an active negotiation and construction of space. A continuous attentiveness to social space is connected to features of Gesellschaft in social media: the utilization of people’s data traces for economic purposes. The social media natives’ online activities are still tied to the market rationales of social media corporations, however, as platforms both facilitate and profit from their practices. The digital Gemeinschaft 2.0 concept hence highlights a continued tension between Gesellschaft and digital Gemeinschaft in social media as both medium and (social and public) space.
Latent Tuberculosis Infection Treatment Outcomes in an At-Risk Underserved Population in Rhode Island
Authors: Verma Shelly , Pacheco Cristina , Carter E. Jane , Szkwarko Daria
Published: July 2022

Objectives:

Within the United States (US), significant racial and ethnic disparities exist in the rates of latent TB infection (LTBI) and active TB disease. A disproportionate number of TB disease cases result from untreated LTBI among individuals born outside the US. This study evaluates LTBI treatment outcomes among an underserved, at-risk population in Rhode Island.

Methods:

A quantitative retrospective chart review of adult patients with a positive screening test assessed LTBI care cascade outcomes including referral, treatment initiation, and completion.

Results:

Seventy-four percent of patients found to have positive screening TB tests were born outside of the US; 80% identified as Hispanic or Black and 45% spoke a preferred language other than English. Twenty-one percent of potential candidates for LTBI treatment initiated treatment.

Conclusions:

Major gaps were identified in referral success and treatment initiation. Expanding LTBI treatment access into primary care settings could be a solution to improve outcomes and decrease health inequities among at-risk communities.
Catastrophic Neurological Complications in 2 Patients With Sickle Cell Disease and COVID-19
Authors: Clarke Karen , Benameur Karima , Wiley Zanthia , Shin Yoo Mee , Moussa Mohamad , El Rassi Fuad , McLemore Morgan
Published: July 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection is commonly associated with neurological complications. Patients with sickle cell disease are at increased risk of developing neurologic complications throughout their lifetimes and often have underlying cardiopulmonary comorbidities that may predispose them to poor outcomes during serious infections. In this case series, we describe 2 patients with sickle cell disease who developed devastating neurologic complications following SARS-CoV-2 infection, which ultimately led to brain edema and death. We highlight the unusual manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 in patients with sickle cell disease and address the risk of these patients to develop catastrophic neurologic injury due to COVID-19, if not recognized promptly.
Lessons learned from an imperfect negotiation process
Authors: Urrutikoetxea Josu , Wieviorka Michel , Lacoste Thomas
Published: July 2022

In 2021, when he was living in France, Josu Urrutikoetxea gave an interview to Michel Wieviorka, in which he spoke about the long, chaotic, and imperfect process that led to the self-dissolution of ETA, the Basque separatist organization that had relied heavily on armed violence since the 1960s. The resulting transcript is an extraordinary piece of documentation, in which an ETA fighter who took part in several of its operations during the 1970s—including the assassination of Spanish Prime Minister Luis Carrero Blanco on December 20, 1973, in Madrid—discusses the journey that led to him becoming the main figure of ETA’s abandonment of political violence. The discourse Urrutikoetxea uses reflects his key role in the movement. In a short article that serves as an introduction to the interview, Wieviorka makes some comments from which the reader can draw several lessons of a sociological nature, particularly about the conditions required for a historical experience of political violence to move toward a process of negotiation.
Decreased quality of care for Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Arientová Simona , Jícha Zdeněk , Beran Ondřej , Holub Michal
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) is one of the most frequent bloodstream infections. High mortality of SAB can be significantly reduced by regular infectious disease (ID) consultations and appropriate clinical management. Because the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a negative impact on hospital ID service, it can be assumed that it has also led to decreased quality of care for SAB patients.

Methods

This study enrolled all (n = 68) patients with proven SAB who were hospitalized in Military University Hospital, Prague, in 2019 and 2020 and the quality of care indicators for SAB patients were compared.

Results

A total of 33 and 35 patients with SAB were hospitalized in our hospital in 2019 and 2020, respectively. The significant difference between the pandemic year 2020 and year 2019 was in ID consultations performed (74% vs. 100%; p = 0.002) and fulfilment of all quality of care indicators (66% vs. 93%; p = 0.012). Next, higher in-hospital mortality was observed in 2020 than in 2019 (6% vs. 23%; p = 0.085). There was no significant difference in the percentages of patients with performed echocardiographic examinations (66% vs. 83%; p = 0.156) and collected follow-up blood cultures (85% vs. 94%; p = 0.428). In addition, there was no difference between the two years in the adequate antibiotic therapy, sources, and bacterial origin of SAB.

Conclusions

The quality of care of SAB patients significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic in our institution.
Effectiveness of the national German quitline for smoking cessation: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Delle Simone , Kraus Ludwig , Maspero Simona , Pogarell Oliver , Hoch Eva , Lochbühler Kirsten
Published: July 2022

Background

Despite the decline in cigarette smoking prevalence during nearly the past two decades, tobacco use is still widespread in the German adult population, accounting for 125,000 deaths each year and causing tremendous social costs. To accelerate the reduction in tobacco smoking prevalence, evidence-based smoking cessation methods are pivotal to a national tobacco control strategy. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the national German Smokers Quitline offering cessation support to smokers.

Methods

A total sample of 910 daily smokers, who are motivated to quit, will be recruited via an online access panel and randomly assigned to either the intervention (telephone counselling) or control condition. In the intervention group, participants will receive up to six proactive phone calls during an intervention period of approximately six weeks. The provided treatment will combine the principles of motivational interviewing and those of the cognitive behavioural approach to treating substance use. Participants in the control condition will receive a self-help brochure to support smoking cessation. Data collection will take place at baseline as well as three (post assessment) and twelve months (follow-up assessment) after baseline assessment. Primary outcome measures will include the seven-day point prevalence abstinence at 3-month and 12-month assessments as well as prolonged abstinence (abstinence over the 12 month period). Secondary outcome measures will include a change in smoking-related cognitions and coping strategies among all participants. Among non-abstainers, treatment success indicators such as a reduction in number of cigarettes smoked per day and changes in the number and duration of quit attempts after intervention start will be assessed. It is expected that after both three and twelve months, smoking cessation rates will be higher in the telephone counselling condition compared to the control condition.

Discussion

The results will provide insights into the effectiveness of proactive telephone counselling by the national German Smokers Quitline.

Trial registration

The protocol for this study is registered with the German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00025343, Date of registration: 2021/06/07, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/setLocale_EN.do