bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiologic Response as a Prognostic Factor in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Macroscopic Vascular Invasion after Transarterial Chemoembolization and Radiotherapy
Authors: Jung Jinhong , Joo Ji Hyeon , Kim So Yeon , Kim Jin Hyoung , Choi Jonggi , Lee Danbi , Shim Ju Hyun , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young-Suk , Lee Han Chu , Park Jin-hong , Yoon Sang Min
Published: December 2021

Introduction: We evaluated the radiologic response rate of combined transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus radiotherapy (RT) in treatment-naïve patients with liver-confined hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with macroscopic vascular invasion (MVI) and analyzed its clinical importance in overall survival (OS) outcomes. Methods: Patients who were treated with TACE plus RT as a first-line treatment for HCC with MVI between January 2010 and December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Radiologic response was assessed according to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST) at 2 and 4 months after completion of RT. Landmark analysis at 2 and 4 months, and time-dependent Cox regression analysis using response as a time-dependent covariate were performed for univariable and multivariable analyses. Results: The 2-month landmark analysis included 427 patients, and the 4-month landmark analysis included 355 patients after excluding patients without imaging studies for response evaluation at 4 months. Radiologic responses were observed in 210 (49.2%) patients at 2 months and 181 (51.8%) patients at 4 months. In multivariable analyses, radiologic response was identified as an independent prognosticator for OS at 2 months (median OS: responders, 23.1 months vs. nonresponders, 8.0 months; hazard ratio [HR], 3.194; p < 0.001) and 4 months (median OS: responders, 26.5 months vs. nonresponders, 9.3 months; HR, 4.534; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Radiologic response assessed by mRECIST was a significant prognostic factor for OS in patients with advanced-stage HCC showing MVI treated with combined TACE plus RT.
The Study of Cerebral Blood Flow Variations during Brain Metastases Radiotherapy
Authors: Hou Chuanke , Gong Guanzhong , Wang Lizhen , Su Ya , Lu Jie , Yin Yong
Published: December 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the cerebral blood flow (CBF) variations during brain metastases (BMs) radiotherapy (RT) applying with magnetic resonance (MR) 3D-arterial spin labeling (ASL). Materials and Methods: A total of 26 BM patients with 54 tumors were retrospectively enrolled. MR examinations were performed before and during RT (30–50 Gy) with a total dose of 36–60 Gy (12–30 fractions) including contrast-enhanced T1-weighted, T2 Flair, and 3D-ASL images. The relationship between CBF changes and the largest cross-sectional area changes in BMs was investigated. And CBF changes in BMs, normal brain tissue, and peritumoral edema areas were analyzed under different dose gradients that were divided into 10 Gy intervals. Results: The largest cross-sectional areas and CBF of 54 BMs decreased by 26.46% and 29.64%, respectively, during RT (p < 0.05), but there was no correlation between the 2 changes (p > 0.05). The rates of CBF decrease in BMs were 33.75%, 24.61%, and 27.55% at 30–40, 40–50, and >50 Gy, respectively (p < 0.05). In normal brain tissue with dose gradients of 0–10, 10–20, 20–30, 30–40, 40–50, and >50 Gy, the CBF decreased by 7.65%, 11.12%, 18.42%, 20.23%, 19.79%, and 17.89%, respectively (p < 0.05). The CBF decreases reached a maximum at 30–40 Gy in normal brain tissue as well as BMs. In contrast, the CBF decreases of peritumoral edema areas increased as the dose gradients increased. Moreover, the CBF changes of BMs were more notable than those in normal brain tissue and peritumoral edema areas. Conclusion: CBF changes can be feasibly assessed in different brain regions during RT based on 3D-ASL. The changes should be considered as a critical factor to determine the personal radiation dose for BMs, normal brain tissue, and peritumoral edema areas.
Analysis of Acupoint Selection and Combinations in Acupuncture Treatment of Asthma Based on Data Mining
Authors: Shang Pan-Pan , Chen Cai-Tao , Cheng Mi , Shi Yang-Lin , Yang Yong-Qing , Wang Yu , Xu Yu-Dong
Published: December 2021

Objective: Asthma is a highly prevalent respiratory disease that remains difficult to control. Acupuncture, as an important alternative therapeutic modality in preventing and treating asthma, is widely used in the world due to its promising efficacy and safety. Although acupoint selection and combinations are critical to therapeutic effects of acupuncture, its fundamental rules for asthma have not been fully understood. Thus, using data mining, the present study aimed to discover the most effective acupoints and combinations in the acupuncture treatment of asthma. Methods: Controlled clinical trials (CCTs) of acupuncture treatment for asthma were searched and retrieved from databases including Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and PubMed. Data regarding the main acupoints prescribed in these clinical trials was collected and quantified. A network analysis was performed to uncover the interconnections between the acupoints. Additionally, hierarchical clustering analysis and association rule mining were conducted to discover the potential acupoint combinations. Results: A total of 183 CCTs were retrieved. Feishu (BL13), Dingchuan (EX-B1), Dazhui (GV14), Shengshu (BL23), Pishu (BL20), and Fengmen (BL12) appeared to be the most frequently used acupoints for asthma. While the Bladder Meridian of Foot Taiyang, the Governor Vessel, and the Conception Vessel, compared to other meridians, were found to be the more commonly selected meridians. In the acupoint interconnection network, Feishu (BL13), Fengmen (BL12), Dingchuan (EX-B1), and Dazhui (GV14) were defined as key node acupoints. Moreover, acupoint clustering analysis revealed the treatment principle of “facilitating the flow of the lung Qi, tonifying spleen and kidney, and treating both the symptoms and root causes.” Association rule mining analysis demonstrated that the combination of Pishu, Shenshu, Feishu, and Dingchuan, as well as that of Feishu, Dazhui, and Fengmen were potential acupoint combinations that should be selected with priority in asthma treatment. Conclusion: Based on a data mining analysis of published CCTs, this study provides valuable information regarding the selection of the most effective acupoints and combinations for clinical acupuncture practice and experimental study aimed at the prevention and treatment of asthma.
Clinicians for CARE: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Interventions to Support Caregivers of Patients With Heart Disease
Authors: Knowles Kellen A. , Xun Helen , Jang Sunyoung , Pang Sharon , Ng Charles , Sharma Apurva , Spaulding Erin M. , Singh Rohanit , Diab Alaa , Osuji Ngozi , Materi Joshua , Amundsen Danielle , Wongvibulsin Shannon , Weng Daniel , Huynh Pauline , Nanavati Julie , Wolff Jennifer , Marvel Francoise A. , Martin Seth S.
Published: December 2021

Background

Caregivers provide critical support for patients with chronic diseases, including heart disease, but often experience caregiver stress that negatively impacts their health, quality of life, and patient outcomes. We aimed to inform health care teams on an evidence‐based approach to supporting the caregivers of patients with heart disease.

Methods and Results

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials written in English that evaluated interventions to support caregivers of patients with heart disease. We identified 15,561 articles as of April 2, 2020 from 6 databases; of which 20 unique randomized controlled trials were evaluated, representing a total of 1570 patients and 1776 caregivers. Most interventions focused on improving quality of life, and reducing burden, depression, and anxiety; 85% (17 of 20) of the randomized controlled trials provided psychoeducation for caregivers. Interventions had mixed results, with moderate non‐significant effects observed for depression (Hedges’ g=−0.64; 95% CI, −1.34 to 0.06) and burden (Hedges’ g=−0.51; 95% CI, −2.71 to 1.70) at 2 to 4 months postintervention and small non‐significant effects observed for quality of life and anxiety. These results were limited by the heterogeneity of outcome measures and intervention delivery methods. A qualitative synthesis of major themes of the interventions resulted in clinical recommendations represented with the acronym “CARE” (Caregiver‐Centered, Active engagement, Reinforcement, Education).

Conclusions

This systematic review highlights the need for greater understanding of the challenges faced by caregivers and the development of guidelines to help clinicians address those challenges. More research is necessary to develop clinical interventions that consistently improve caregiver outcomes.
Age‐Dependent Effect of Ticagrelor Monotherapy Versus Ticagrelor With Aspirin on Major Bleeding and Cardiovascular Events: A Post Hoc Analysis of the TICO Randomized Trial
Authors: Kim Byung Gyu , Hong Sung‐Jin , Kim Byeong‐Keuk , Lee Seung‐Jun , Ahn Chul‐Min , Shin Dong‐Ho , Kim Jung‐Sun , Ko Young‐Guk , Choi Donghoon , Hong Myeong‐Ki , Jang Yangsoo
Published: December 2021

Background

We aimed to evaluate the age‐dependent effect of ticagrelor monotherapy after 3‐month dual‐antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) versus ticagrelor‐based 12‐month DAPT on major bleeding and cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results

From the TICO trial (Ticagrelor Monotherapy After 3 Months in the Patients Treated With New Generation Sirolimus‐eluting Stent for Acute Coronary Syndrome), which randomized 3056 patients (median age, 61 years) to the ticagrelor monotherapy after 3‐month DAPT group or ticagrelor‐based 12‐month DAPT group, this post hoc analysis evaluated the age‐dependent effect of the treatment strategies on the primary end point (a composite of major bleeding, death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, stroke, or target‐vessel revascularization) using the subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot. The cutoff age for distinguishing patients with greater benefit from this strategy was also determined. The risk reduction effect of ticagrelor monotherapy after 3‐month DAPT versus ticagrelor‐based 12‐month DAPT on the primary end point gradually increased with age and was more marked from the subpopulation of age 64 years with the change point. With this cutoff value of 64 years, the occurrence of the primary end point was significantly lower in the ticagrelor monotherapy after 3‐month DAPT group than in the ticagrelor‐based 12‐month DAPT group (4.4% versus 9.0%;
P
=0.002) in patients aged ≥64 years (n=1278), but it was not different in those aged <64 years (n=1778) with a significant interaction (
P
‐interaction=0.036).

Conclusions

The age‐dependent increase in the benefit of ticagrelor monotherapy after 3‐month DAPT versus ticagrelor‐based 12‐month DAPT was observed in the patients with acute coronary syndrome. In elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome, ticagrelor monotherapy after short‐term DAPT might be more optimal than ticagrelor‐based 12‐month DAPT.
TEKNOLOJİK LİDERLİK, KİŞİSELLEŞTİRME, MARKA FARKINDALIĞI VE MARKA DEĞERİ ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİLER
Authors: ŞAHİN Azize
Published: December 2021

Bu araştırmanın amacı; teknolojik liderlik, marka farkındalığı, marka değeri ve kişiselleştirme arasındaki doğrudan, aracı, düzenleyici ve düzenleyici-aracı ilişkileri incelemektir. Bu araştırma mobil iletişim markalarının aboneleri üzerinde gerçekleştirilmiştir (N=1659). Sonuçlara göre, teknolojik liderlik marka farkındalığını en yüksek düzeyde etkilerken, marka değerini daha düşük düzeyde etkilediği ortaya koyulmuştur. Marka farkındalığı marka değerini yüksek düzeyde etkilerken, aynı zamanda teknolojik liderlik ile marka değeri arasındaki ilişkide yüksek düzeyde aracılık rolü olduğu ortaya koyulmuştur. Kişiselleştirmenin, teknolojik liderlik ile marka farkındalığı arasındaki ilişkide ve teknolojik liderlik ile marka değeri arısındaki ilişkideki düzenleyici etkileri ortaya koyulmasıyla birlikte, marka farkındalığının aracılık ettiği teknolojik liderlik ile marka değeri arasındaki ilişkide düzenleyici rolüyle düzenleyici-aracı ilişki ortaya koyulmuştur. Araştırma, mobil iletişim markaları müşterilerine yüksek teknoloji ve yüksek düzeyde kişiselleştirme ile marka farkındalıklarını güçlendirecekleri ve marka değerlerini yükseltecekleri sonucunu ortaya koymaktadır.
MUHASEBE VE FİNANS EĞİTİMİ ALAN ÖĞRENCİLERİN MUHASEBE MESLEĞİNE BAKIŞ AÇILARININ VE MESLEĞE YÖNELME EĞİLİMLERİNİN İNCELENMESİ: KASTAMONU ÜNİVERSİTESİ ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: SÖNMEZ Yahya , ALTINIŞIK Fatih
Published: December 2021

Bu çalışmanın temel amacı Kastamonu Üniversitesi İktisadi ve İdari Bilimler Fakültesi Bankacılık ve Finans Bölümü’nde lisans düzeyinde muhasebe ve finans eğitimi alan öğrencilerin muhasebe mesleğine bakış açılarının ve mesleğe yönelme eğilimlerinin ortaya konulmasıdır. Araştırma kapsamında ihtiyaç duyulan verilerin toplanması için anket tekniği kullanılmıştır. Söz konusu anket, 262 öğrenciye uygulanmıştır. Elde edilen veriler SPSS paket programında Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mann-Whitney U ve Kruskal-Wallis H testleri ile analiz edilmiştir. Yapılan analizler sonucunda öğrencilerin muhasebe mesleğine bakış açılarının, demografik özelliklerine göre istatistiki açıdan anlamlı farklılıklar gösterdiği ve öğrencilerin muhasebe alanında çalışma eğilimlerinin yüksek olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
İSVEÇ DEVLET DÜZENİ VE KAMU YÖNETİMİ HAKKINDA BİR DEĞERLENDİRME: REFAHIN YÖNETİMİ
Authors: HATİPOĞLU Osman
Published: December 2021

Avrupa’nın en gelişmiş ülkelerinden olan İsveç’i, Türkçe karşılaştırmalı kamu yönetimi alan yazınında doğrudan konu edinen az sayıda çalışma bulunmaktadır. Anayasasında sosyal devlet olma ilkesi olan Türkiye için, dünyada bu konuda model kabul edilen İsveç’in kamu yönetimi düzeninin anlaşılması önemlidir. Bu hususları göz önüne alarak yapılan bu betimleyici araştırmada İsveç’in devlet yapısı ve örgütlenmesi ile kamu yönetimine ilişkin unsurları ve STK’ları analiz edilmiştir. Ülkenin güçlü yerel yönetimler-küçük merkezi yönetim ve merkezi yönetimin icrai faaliyetlerinin de özerk kamu ajanslarınca yürütülmesine dayanan düalist kamu yönetimi modeli tipiktir. Ülkenin düalist yapısı üniter bir devlet için sıra dışıdır, federe bir devlet olmayan İsveç refah devletini bir federasyon gibi örgütlemiştir. Ülkede refah devleti uygulamaları ile güçlü yerel yönetimler, STK’larının kamu hizmetlerindeki payını düşürmekte, ancak yaygın örgütlü İsveç STK’ları toplumsal yaşam ve istihdam açısından önemini korumaktadır.
TARİHTEKİ EKONOMİK BALONLAR IŞIĞINDA KRİPTO PARALARA GENEL BİR BAKIŞ
Authors: EVLİMOĞLU Umut , GÜDER Mustafa
Published: December 2021

Tarihsel sürece bakıldığında, birçok ekonomik balonun ortaya çıktığı ve bunların çeşitli ortak özelliklerinin olduğu görülmektedir. Ekonomik balonların oluşum ve gelişim süreci boyunca; ekonomik birimler genellikle bunun bir balon olduğu kanaatini taşımamaktadırlar. Kripto para piyasasında da bir balon oluşumunun mevcut olup olmadığı ciddi bir tartışma konusudur. Bu çalışmanın amacı; ilk olarak tarihteki ekonomik balonları inceleyerek kripto paraların önceki ekonomik balonlar ile benzer ve farklı yönlerini ortaya koymak; buna koşut olarak da balonların oluşum aşamalarındaki ortak özellikleri ve yatırımcı davranışları çerçevesinde kripto paraları balon oluşumu açısından incelemektir. Sonuç olarak, kripto paralardaki fiyat hareketlerinin; birçok açıdan (yatırımcı davranışları, geçirilen aşamalar) geçmiş balonlarla benzerlikler taşıdığı, buna karşın; söz konusu varlıkların ciddi bir teknolojik altyapı gerektirmesi, bazılarında arzın sınırlı olması, temel değerlerinin tam olarak bilinmemesi gibi önemli farklılıkları da olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
ALGILANAN ELEKTRONİK WOM UNSURLARININ MARKA İMAJI VE SATIN ALMA NİYETİ ÜZERİNDEKİ ETKİLERİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: KARAHAN Mehmet Ozan
Published: December 2021

Araştırmanın amacı, algılanan elektronik ağızdan ağıza iletişim (eWOM) unsurlarından olan eWOM güvenilirliği, kalitesi ve niceliğinin; bireylerin marka imajı ve satın alma niyeti üzerindeki etkilerinin belirlenmesidir. Araştırmanın anakütlesini ülkemizde yaşayan, 18 yaşından büyük çeşitli sosyal medya hesaplarına sahip ve farklı internet sitelerinden çevrim içi alışveriş yapma deneyimi olan kişiler oluşturmaktadır. Çevrim içi ortamda, 385 adet katılımcının doldurdukları anket formlarından elde edilen geçerli veri üzerinde korelasyan ve çoklu regresyon analizleri gerçekleştirilmiştir. Analiz sonucunda, eWOM kalitesi ve eWOM niceliğinin marka imajı üzerinde olumlu ve anlamlı etkiye sahip olduğu; eWOM güvenilirliğinin ise marka imajı üzerinde herhangi bir etkisinin olmadığı gözlemlenmiştir. eWOM güvenilirliği ve yine eWOM niceliğinin ise, bireylerin satın alma niyetleri üzerinde olumlu ve anlamlı etkilere sahip olduğu görülürken, eWOM kalitesinin bireylerin satın alma niyetleri üzerinde anlamlı bir etkisinin olmadığı görülmüştür.
EVALUATION STUDY OF USING BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT PROCESSES
Authors: KIRBAÇ Gökhan
Published: December 2021

Nowadays, processes of information technologies have become important for supply chain management. Also, the supply chain processes become even more complex. In order to solve this complexity, businesses manage supply chain processes with many systems. Blockchain has a number of advantages for not only finance but also supply chain. The aim of this research is to serve a descriptive use case for using blockchain technology in the supply chain processes. In-depth interviews are conducted with supply chain managers and blockchain technology professionals. Architectural design processes of blockchain technology in the supply chain are determined. Lastly, Analytic Hierarchy Process was applied to the main characteristics of blockchain. This study is a descriptive study that serves as a roadmap for firms that want to use blockchain technology in their supply chain processes.
A Visual Programming Interface for Digital Luthiery: Implementing Circuits with Veneer
Authors: Norilo Vesa , Olarte Alejandro
Published: December 2021

This article presents a method for programming musical signal-processing circuits visually, using expressive idioms and abstractions from functional programming. Special attention is paid to the creative workflow, framing the education in a constructionist context. Our aim is to empower musicians in signal processing: The claim was tested in a university workshop for relatively inexperienced programmers. The participants were able to study and implement signal-processing algorithms from literature and integrate them into their preexisting workflow, and appeared to gain self-confidence while doing so.
Children’s Leisure Reading in the Nahḍah
Authors: Ayalon Ami
Published: December 2021

Children made up a substantial segment of the literate public that emerged during the Arab nahḍah period. Of these, an apparent minority applied skills they acquired in school to reading for pleasure or satisfying juvenile curiosity. This study explores the novel practice of Arab youth leisure-time reading as reported in retrospective memories and autobiographies. It reveals that during the nahḍah’s early decades, the inventory of Arabic readings fit for children was strikingly limited—unlike the multitude of books that were available to adults—a reality that forced curious boys and girls from different classes to make do with adult books for their after-school reading. This article examines cultural factors for that scarcity (primarily the status of children in society) and economic ones (e.g., publishers’ business concerns) and considers its implications. Probing a seemingly marginal section of a wider scene, it sheds light on hitherto neglected facets of the Arab transition from widespread illiteracy to extensive literacy at this point in history.
The Traceability of Construction and Demolition Waste in Flanders via Blockchain Technology: A Match Made in Heaven?
Authors: Voorter Jonas , Koolen Christof
Published: December 2021

The construction sector plays a crucial role in the transition to a circular economy and a more sustainable society. With this objective in mind, Flanders – the Dutch speaking part of Belgium – makes use of a traceability procedure for construction and demolition waste in order to guarantee that value can be derived from downstream waste processing activities. This article takes this traceability procedure as a legal case study and examines if the use of blockchain technology could lead to even stronger supply chains, better data management, and, more generally, a smoother transition to circular practices in the construction sector.
From Reform to Rights: The American Culture of the Citizen Soldier and the Transformation of the Crusading Metaphor, 1917–1945
Authors: Cross Graham
Published: December 2021

The “crusading” imagery attached to American soldiers in the 1917–1945 period performed an important function in assigning meaning to the wars of the United States. This was the result of a complex interplay between “official” and “vernacular” culture. The doughboys of the First World War at times fought a romantic “crusade” to reform the nation, world and themselves from a morally privileged position. In the post-war era, the romantic “crusade” survived but was more in tune with the conservative corporatism of Republican administrations. By the Second World War, gi s had become the agents of a very different “crusade”. Americans now embraced statist common effort in a realist prospective vision for human rights. This fundamental change in the meaning of “crusade” attached to the experiences of American soldiers suggests a protean nature to the metaphor and problematises notions of an ideologically cohesive American “crusade” in the world during the 20th century.
The Argo, Danaus, and Sesostris: On Allusions to Two First-Ship Traditions in Apollonius’s Argonautica
Authors: McPhee Brian D.
Published: December 2021

Against recent skepticism, this article proposes that Apollonius’s Argonautica alludes to the variant traditions that regarded either the Argo or the ship of Danaus as the first that ever sailed. Both variants predate Apollonius, and the poet nods to each at different points in his epic. Most novel is my argument that the rare word Δαναΐς (1.137) constitutes a subtle allusion to the tradition that Danaus’s ship, the “Danais” (Δαναΐς, scholium ad Argonautica 1.1–4e), was the world’s first ship. Neither tradition jibes with Apollonius’s mythological chronology, but Danaus’s voyage nevertheless provides a resonant Greco-Egyptian exemplar for the Argonautic expedition.
An annotated catalogue of bird lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera) from Chile
Authors: GONZÁLEZ-ACUÑA DANIEL A. , PALMA RICARDO L.
Published: December 2021

The species and subspecies of chewing lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera: Amblycera, Ischnocera) parasitic on Chilean birds are listed and annotated, based on records published until October 2021 and from our examination of collections. The current scientific name, its taxonomic history, data on type material, type host, other hosts, geographic distribution within Chile and elsewhere, Chilean literature references and other significant references are given for each species or subspecies of lice. A total of four families, 76 genera, and 245 species and subspecies of lice are listed, including 17 species recorded as genus only, and 31 new records of species. A host-louse list—including a total of 155 bird species (146 native and nine introduced by human agency) belonging to 19 orders, 43 families and 107 genera—is also given.
Thirteen new species of Chilecicada Sanborn, 2014 (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadidae: Tibicininae) expand the highly endemic cicada fauna of Chile
Authors: SANBORN ALLEN F. , COLE JEFFREY A. , STUKEL MARK , ŁUKASIK PIOTR , VELOSO CLAUDIO , GONZALEZ VALORIE A. , KARKAR JESSICA B. , SIMON CHRIS
Published: December 2021

The genus Chilecicada Sanborn, 2014 is shown to be a complex of closely related species rather than a monospecific genus. Chilecicada citatatemporaria Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. culenesensis Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. curacaviensis Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. impartemporaria Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. magna Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. mapuchensis Sanborn n. sp., C. oraria Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. parrajaraorum Sanborn n. sp., C. partemporaria Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. pehuenchesensis Sanborn & Cole n. sp., C. trifascia Sanborn n. sp., C. trifasciunca Sanborn & Cole n. sp., and C. viridicitata Sanborn & Cole n. sp. are described as new. Chilecicada occidentis Walker, 1850 is re-described to facilitate separation of the new species from the only previously known species. Song and cytochrome oxidase I analysis available for most species support the separation of the new taxa from the type species of the genus. Known species distributions and a key to the species of the genus are also provided. The new species increases the known cicada diversity 61.9% to 34 species, 91.2% of which are endemic to Chile.
Gender Roles in the Millennium: Who Pays and Is Expected to Pay for Romantic Dates?
Authors: Wu Hao , Luo Shanhong , Klettner Annelise , White Tyler , Albritton Kate
Published: December 2021

Research on monetary decisions and behaviors in dating relationships is very limited. The purpose of this study was to examine college students’ current practice and expectations for date payment for first and subsequent romantic dates in the framework of gender role theory. A sample of 552 heterosexual college students took an online survey that included questions about their actual and expected payment for their first and subsequent dates. Participants also completed several measures regarding their gender roles. The findings indicated that traditional gender norms in dating continue to be popular in the new millennium because in actual practice, men almost always paid the whole bill of the first dates and paid more for subsequent dates. When asked who should pay for the dates, participants also expected men to pay more for first and subsequent dates. Women did show some willingness to share date expenses, although nowhere close to be completely even. The findings also indicated that gender role attitudes played little role in actual practice but had a stronger role in date payment expectations, showing that individuals subscribing to traditional gender inequality views tended to believe that men should pay more for dates.
The Power of Black Panther to Affect Group Perceptions: Examining the Relationships Between Narrative Engagement, Narrative Influence, and Perceived Vitality of African Americans
Authors: Sanders Meghan S. , Banjo Omotayo
Published: December 2021

Marvel’s Black Panther (2018) offered much discussion about the role of an entertainment narrative to influence moviegoing audience’s perceptions about African, African American, and Black experiences. Generally, entertainment narratives allow people to imagine themselves as different people, part of different worlds, and sometimes even living in different timeframes. By providing different perspectives, they can provide opportunities for understanding of and improved perceptions of others. The strength of these perspectives resides with the strength of the story’s ability to engage. The present study examines how engagement with the film’s narrative may be associated with perceived vitality of African Americans, and how this relationship may be mediated by the influence audiences perceive the narrative to have on others. The study provides two key findings. Generally, narrative engagement is associated with perceived vitality, through the perceived influence of the narrative on white audiences but not Black audiences. These associations seem to be driven by Black respondents, however, for White respondents, the associations are present when considering the narrative’s influence on Black audiences.
Deep learning nomogram for predicting lymph node metastasis using computed tomography image in cervical cancer
Authors: Li Peijun , Feng Bao , Liu Yu , Chen Yehang , Zhou Haoyang , Chen Yuan , Li Wenming , Long Wansheng
Published: December 2021

Background

Deep learning (DL) has been used on medical images to grade, differentiate, and predict prognosis in many tumors.

Purpose

To explore the effect of computed tomography (CT)-based deep learning nomogram (DLN) for predicting cervical cancer lymph node metastasis (LNM) before surgery.

Material and Methods

In total, 418 patients with stage IB-IIB cervical cancer were retrospectively enrolled for model exploration (n = 296) and internal validation (n = 122); 62 patients from another independent institution were enrolled for external validation. A convolutional neural network (CNN) was used for DL features extracting from all lesions. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) logistic regression was used to develop a deep learning signature (DLS). A DLN incorporating the DLS and clinical risk factors was proposed to predict LNM individually. The performance of the DLN was evaluated on internal and external validation cohorts.

Results

Stage, CT-reported pelvic lymph node status, and DLS were found to be independent predictors and could be used to construct the DLN. The combination showed a better performance than the clinical model and DLS. The proposed DLN had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.925 in the training cohort, 0.771 in the internal validation cohort, and 0.790 in the external validation cohort. Decision curve analysis and stratification analysis suggested that the DLN has potential ability to generate a personalized probability of LNM in cervical cancer.

Conclusion

The proposed CT-based DLN could be used as a personalized non-invasive tool for preoperative prediction of LNM in cervical cancer, which could facilitate the choice of clinical treatment methods.
A gray-box harmonic resonance frequency identification method of multiple-inverter-fed power system oriented to system designers
Authors: Wang Yue , Li Yonggang , Yang Yinan , Wu Binyuan , Liu Qiyu , Zhang Mengqi , Li Xinshuo
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a gray-box harmonic resonance frequency identification method of multiple-inverter-fed power system, which enables modal analysis oriented to system designers based on only frequency response data provided by diverse vendors or measured by frequency scanning. First, admittance transfer functions of all grid-connected inverters (GCIs) are fitted using Matrix Pencil Method-Vector Fitting (MPM-VF) combined method. Then, node admittance matrix (NAM) is formed according to the topology of whole system. Finally, harmonic resonance frequency along with changes in number of GCIs are identified by NAM-based modal analysis (MA). The proposed gray-box identification method is implemented in a typical multiple-inverter-fed power system. The correctness of harmonic resonance frequency identification results and the effectiveness of the presented method are verified by simulation results obtained in Matlab/Simulink platform and OPAL-RT digital real-time simulation platform. Based on the identification results, a more stable and better power quality multiple-inverter-fed power system can be built by system designers though avoiding the appearance of harmonic sources with corresponding resonance frequency.
Medical Adjuvant Therapy in Reducing Thrombosis With Arteriovenous Grafts and Fistulae Use: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ullah Kaleem , Bashir Maham , Ain Noor Ul , Sarfraz Azza , Sarfraz Zouina , Sarfraz Muzna , Cherrez-Ojeda Ivan
Published: December 2021

Hemodialysis is required for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) that require arteriovenous (AV) grafts or fistulas for vascular access. These access points are prone to thrombosis. To determine the effect of medical adjuvant therapy on AV graft/fistula patency among patients with ESRD on hemodialysis. Adhering to the PRISMA 2020 statement, a systematic search was conducted until August 20, 2021, with keywords including arteriovenous graft, fistula, patency, thrombosis, hemodialysis, adjuvant treatment. The following databases were searched: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane. A random-effects model was employed using Review Manager 5.4 for data analysis. The meta-analysis pooled in 1985 participants with 1000 (50.4%) in the medical adjuvant treatment group. At a snapshot, medical adjuvant therapy reduced the risk for graft thrombosis (RR = 0.64, P = .02). Notable medications included aspirin for graft thrombosis (RR = 0.36, P = .006) and ticlopidine for fistula thrombosis (RR = 0.53, P = .01). Certain antiplatelet therapies (aspirin and ticlopidine) reduced the number of patients with AV fistula/graft thrombosis among patients with high heterogeneity among the trials. Other therapies (fish oil, sulfinpyrazone, clopidogrel, and aspirin/dipyridamole) did not demonstrate significant improvement but may be promising once concrete evidence is available. Potential benefits of anti-platelet therapies may be explored to maintain the potency of AV grafts/fistulas through well-designed placebo-controlled trials and long-term follow-up.
A comparative study into the effects of venous and arterial blood on clot microstructure in critically unwell patients. Assessment of the diagnostic potential of a biomarker of haemostasis
Authors: Pillai Suresh , Evans Vanessa , Davies Gareth , Lawrence Matthew J , Whitley Janet , Battle Ceri E , Williams Phylip R , Morris Keith , Evans Phillip A
Published: December 2021

Blood for coagulation analysis can be sampled from the arterial or venous system in intensive care units (ICU). The determination of clot microstructure and strength by fractal analysis (d f) gives valuable information in a range of vascular haemostatic disease and sepsis. We aimed to determine if d f could be measured equally and comparatively in arterial or venous blood, and 45 critically ill patients in an ICU were recruited. d f was found to be readily measured in arterial blood with results comparable to those in venous blood and that add value of d f as a potential marker of haemostasis in these patients.
Interior Environments in Long-Term Care Units From the Theory of Supportive Design
Authors: Bae Suyeon , Asojo Abimbola O.
Published: December 2021

Aim:

This study was designed to examine how residents in long-term care (LTC) units perceive their living environment based on the theory of supportive design.

Background:

Healthcare environments may cause a significant level of stress mainly due to patients’ lack of familiarity with such environments and patients’ poor health conditions. According to the theory, the healthcare environments providing a sense of control, social support, and positive distraction can promote wellness. This study was designed to learn how LTC residents perceive their current living environments.

Method:

This study collected data through qualitative interviews. A total of 48 residents living in two LTC units were asked the three interior environments they liked and they wanted to improve. Only the residents who lived in the current space for 1 month and communicate without any cognitive disabilities were able to participate. Most residents were female and lived in a private room.

Results:

The participants’ responses indicated the importance of perceived control, social support, and positive distraction in the environment. The most frequently mentioned interior environment that the residents liked was “window and view,” followed by “pictures and photos” and “TV,” while they wanted “bigger room and space,” followed by “improved privacy” and “more options for food.” In addition to the three elements, the participants considered other elements as important for them which can benefit the participants.

Conclusion:

More studies must be carried out to expand the theory, so that it can be applied to future studies with inclusive perspectives.
Neuroimaging cerebrovascular biomarkers in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Alves Mariana , Pita Lobo Patrícia , Azevedo Kauppila Linda , Rebordão Leonor , Cruz M Manuela , Guerreiro Carla , Ferro José M , Ferreira Joaquim J , Reimão Sofia
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose

The cardiovascular risk in Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains uncertain and controversial. Some studies suggest PD patients present an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease. We aimed to study the prevalence of neuroimaging cerebrovascular biomarkers in PD patients compared to controls, using an accurate and complete magnetic resonance (MR) imaging evaluation.

Material and Methods

Neuroimaging sub-study within a larger cross-sectional case–control study. An enriched subgroup of PD patients (≤10 years since diagnosis) with at least a moderate cardiovascular mortality risk based on a Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) was compared to community-based controls regarding neuroimaging biomarkers. Patients underwent a high-resolution T1-weighted MR imaging sequence at 3.0 T to visualize neuromelanin. A 3D SWI FFE, sagittal 3D T1-weighted, axial FLAIR and diffusion-weighted image sequences were obtained.

Results

The study included 47 patients, 24 with PD and 23 controls. PD patients presented a reduced area and signal intensity of the substantia nigra and locus coeruleus on neuromelanin-sensitive MR. The median SCORE was 5% in both groups. No significant differences regarding white matter hyperintensities (OR 4.84, 95% CI 0.50, 47.06), lacunes (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.07, 2.63), microbleeds (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.13, 3.26), or infarcts (0.95, 95% CI 0.12, 7.41) was found. The frequency of these neuroimaging biomarkers was very low in both groups.

Conclusion

The present study does not support an increased prevalence of neuroimaging cerebrovascular biomarkers in PD patients.
COVID-19 Care Clinic in a Medical Center: Lessons Learned
Authors: Tulledge-Scheitel Sidna M. , Billings Thomas A. , Fischer Karen M. , Homme Jason H. , Miller Jennifer M. , North Frederick , Sanderson Rachael L. , Schroeder Darrell R. , Vaughan Marvin A. , Croghan Ivana T.
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The purpose of this report is to describe the elements of a Covid-19 Care Clinic (CCC), patient demographics, and outcomes.

Methods:

Descriptive statistics were used to describe demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes. This report is based on 4934 unique patients seen in the CCC who provided research authorization within a 10-month period of time (April 1, 2020-January 31, 2021). The CCC infection control processes consisted of a rooming process that mitigated SARS-COV-2 transmission, preparing examination rooms, using PPE by staff, in room lab drawing, and escorting services to minimize the time in clinic.

Results:

Of the 4934 unique patients seen (age range newborn-102 years), 76.8% were tested for COVID-19. Of those tested, 11.8% were positive for SARS-CoV-2. Ninety-two percent of the patients with the reason for the visit documented had COVID-19 type symptoms. Cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain were the most common presenting symptom in those with COVID-19. At the time of the visit in the CCC, 5.8% of the patients were actively contagious. Thirty days after being seen in the CCC, 9.1% of the patients were seen in the emergency department (ED) and 0.2% died. During the 10-month period there were no known occupationally related COVID-19 infections.

Conclusion:

The COVID-19 Care Clinic provided face-to-face access for all ages with COVID-19 type symptoms. A minority of patients had COVID-19 who were seen in the clinic. The clinic provided an additional venue of care outside of the ED. The infectious control measures employed were highly effective in protecting the staff. Lessons learned allow for decentralization of COVID-19 symptom care to the primary care practices employing the infection control measures.
Robot for Ligament Tensioning and Assessment of Spinal Stability
Authors: McAfee Paul C. , Eisermann Lukas , Mullinix Kenneth
Published: December 2021

Study Design

An in vitro human cadaveric biomechanics study.

Objective

A proof-of-concept study to quantify whether or not differences in segmental mobility associated with spinal instability could be detected by a robotic distraction system.

Methods

Testing was performed in fresh human cadaveric tissue. A prototype Robotic Middle Column Distractor was attached unilaterally to the pedicles of L3-4. Distraction forces up to 150 N were applied first in the intact state, and following discectomy of L3-4. Motions were recorded by time-indexed visual and fluoroscopic images, and analyzed to measure actual motions achieved. Functions of the robot unit were monitored during the procedure and evaluated qualitatively.

Results

A difference of 2.5 mm in z-axis motion was detected at 150 N load between the intact and post-discectomy states. The robot coupled with the image analysis method was able to clearly detect the difference between the intact (“stable”) and post-discectomy (“unstable”) spine. Data analysis of fluoroscopic images taken during the procedure showed greater motion than perceived by the investigators from qualitative review of visual data. All monitored robot functions performed within design parameters without error.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates the feasibility and utility of utilizing an intraoperative robotic distractor to measure the amount of spinal mobility present at a level. This could lead to an important clinical tool for both diagnostic functions as well as operative assist functions.
Anatomy and cell wall ultrastructure of sunflower stalk rind
Authors: Wang Lizhen , Ren Hao , Zhai Shengcheng , Zhai Huamin
Published: December 2021

The anatomy and ultrastructure of sunflower stalk rind are closely related to its conversion and utilization. We studied systematically the anatomy and ultrastructure of the stalk rind using light, scanning electron, transmission electron and fluorescence microscopy. The results showed that the stalk rind consisted of phloem fibers (PF), xylem fibers (XF), vessel elements (V), ground parenchyma cells (GPC), axial parenchyma cells (APC), xylem ray parenchyma cells (XRPC), and pith ray parenchyma cells (PRPC). These cell walls were divided into the middle lamella, primary wall, and secondary wall (S). It was found that the S of PF, XF and V was further divided into three layers (S1–S3), while the S of APC, GPC, XRPC and PRPC showed a non-layered cell wall organization or differentiated two (S1, S2) to seven layers (S1–S7). Our research revealed the plasmodesmata characteristics in the pit membranes (PMs) between parenchyma cells (inter-GPCs, inter-XRPCs, and inter-PRPCs). The morphology of the plasmodesmata varied with the types of parenchyma cells. The thickness and diameter of PMs between the cells (inter-Vs, V–XF, V–APC, and V–XRPC) were greater than that of PMs between parenchyma cells. The cell corners among parenchyma cells were intercellular space. The lignification degree of vessels was higher than that of parenchyma cells and fibers. The results will provide useful insights into the biological structure, conversion and utilization of sunflower stalk rind.
Coin Paradox Spin–Orbit Interaction Enhances Magneto-Optical Effect and Its Application in On-Chip Integrated Optical Isolator
Authors: Hu Hao , Qi Jiwei , Wu Qiang , Fu Xianhui , Wu Hongjin , Zhang Sihao , Chen Zongqiang , Chen Jing , Yao Jianghong , Yu Xuanyi , Sun Qian , Xu Jingjun
Published: December 2021

We designed a simple on-chip integrated optical isolator made up of a metal–insulator–metal waveguide and a disc cavity filled with magneto-optical material to enhance the transverse magneto-optical effect through the coin paradox spin–orbit interaction (SOI). The simulation results of the non-reciprocal transmission properties of this optical structure show that a high-performance on-chip integrated optical isolator is obtained. The maximum isolation ratio is greater than 60 dB with a corresponding insertion loss of about 2 dB. The great performance of the optical isolator is attributed to the strong transverse magneto-optical effect, which is enhanced by the coin paradox SOI. Moreover, the enhancement of the transverse magneto-optical effect through the coin paradox SOI is more substantial for smaller azimuthal mode number n. Benefiting from this, the transverse magneto-optical effect remains strong in a wide wavelength range. Additionally, a smaller cavity has a stronger transverse magneto-optical effect in the same wavelength range. Our research provides a new perspective for creating highly integrated magneto-optical devices.
A CT-based technique to predict optimal projection for self-expanding TAVI in patients with different aortic valve anatomies
Authors: Wang Xi , Chen Fei , Xiong Tian-Yuan , Li Yi-Jian , Ou Yuan-Weixiang , Li Qiao , Peng Yong , Wei Jia-Fu , He Sen , Chen Mao , Feng Yuan
Published: December 2021

Background

Optimal projection is essential for valve deployment during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The purpose of this study was to propose an approach to predict optimal projection in TAVI candidates with different aortic valve anatomies.

Methods

331 patients undergoing self-expanding TAVI were included and the so-called non-coronary cusp (NCC)-parallel technique was utilized, which generated the predicted projection by connecting NCC commissures on the transverse plane on the pre-procedural computed tomography images.

Results

37.8% of the study cohort were bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients. Around 80% of both NCC-parallel views and final views were in the right anterior oblique (RAO) and caudal (CAU) quadrant. There was less than 5° change required from the NCC-parallel view to the final implanted view in 79% of tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) patients but only in 27% (13/48) of type 0 BAV patients with coronary arteries originated from the different cusps. After excluding the above mentioned BAV patients, 62.3% (48/77) of BAV patients needed less than 5° change to achieve optimal projection and only in 8 patients, the angular change was larger than 10° in either left/right anterior oblique or cranial/caudal direction.

Conclusions

The NCC-parallel technique provides reliable prediction for optimal projection in self-expanding TAVI in all TAV and most BAV patients, with a vast majority of views in the RAO and CAU quadrant.