bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An experimental and finite element investigation for determining critical speeds of a cracked jeffcott rotor model
Authors: Patil Kedar Kishor , Sawant Dr. Sanjay Hari
Published: September 2023

Rotating machines like pumps, compressors, generators, and steam and gas turbines are widely used in Industry 4.0. The researchers have gained more attention by modeling a cracked Jeffcott rotor system through a finite element approach. The present work consists of theoretical and finite element analysis of the Jeffcott rotor model with consideration of different crack depths, crack locations, and shaft material. Finite element results and their experimental verification obtained by FFT analysis show that increasing crack depth decreases the first critical speed of the system. Also, an increasing number of cracks results in decreases in the system’s first critical speed. The presence of a crack changes the stiffness of the shaft which results in, a decreasing the natural frequency. The present study approach provides an improved platform for crack diagnostic information to the vibration condition monitoring community for using Ansys software effectively as a finite element tool for performing rotordynamic analysis in Industry 4.0.
Governing the bairro clandestino of Cova da Moura (1974–2015): Decentred and collaborative governance in an informal neighbourhood in Lisbon’s metropolitan area
Authors: Colombo Alessandro , Allegra Marco
Published: September 2023

Cova da Moura was established in the municipality of Amadora in the mid-1970s as a bairro clandestino (‘informal’ or ‘illegal neighbourhood’). Since then, it has grown into a community of thousands of residents; having escaped the large rehousing operations of the 1990s, Cova da Moura is today one of the few surviving bairros clandestinos in the metropolitan area of Lisbon, as well as a ‘distressed urban area’. In the four decades of its life, Cova da Moura has passed through different eras of policymaking, and has been the object of a variety of public interventions. The article provides a critical assessment of the Iniciativa Bairros Críticos (Critical Neighbourhoods Initiative, 2005–2013), as an example of a policy initiative embodying a normative vision of collaborative governance. The case of the Iniciativa Bairros Críticos in Cova da Moura provides some lessons on how collaborative governance design can address key challenges that ‘distressed urban areas’ pose to public intervention – but at the same time shows us the unavoidable pitfalls of the process, as well as the limits of their reach vis-à-vis broad, structural issues.
When Media Campaigns Fail: Explaining the Factors of Civil Disobedience to COVID-19 Protocols in Nigeria
Authors: Oyedele Obasanjo Joseph , Onayinka Toyin Segun , Oluwasola Omolola , Asogwa Chika E.
Published: September 2023

Media campaigns on COVID-19 protocols were launched in Nigeria to reduce the spread of the virus. There was evidence to suggest disobedience to the protocols. Thus, this study investigates factors that facilitated civil disobedience to COVID-19 protocols and the implications for the management of the virus. Awareness, mediatisation and personal, cultural and societal factors constructs were formulated to measure the level of civil disobedience. Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin’s Measure of Sampling Adequacy used for the study revealed that 86.4% out of the sampled size was sufficient for testing and validating variables in the civil disobedience construct, 69.1% and 63.1% for awareness and mediatisation constructs, respectively. The constructs were subjected to inferential statistical analysis, and the variables measured at the continuous and linear relationship levels. The study found economic status and media reports as the determinants of peoples’ awareness of the virus. Provision of adequate information and exposure to COVID-related contents were dominant factors under mediatisation; social distancing and use of face masks were dominant factors of civil disobedience. This study concluded that media campaigns on COVID-19 protocols failed to achieve needed behavioural changes due to economic issues, language barriers, insensitivity of government and inadequate provision of essential amenities.
Primary Spinal Intradural Extramedullary Ewing’s Sarcoma/Peripheral Neuroectodermal Tumour Masquerading Clinically as a Neurogenic Tumour: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Praveen B. K. , Das Saikat , Gupta Manish , Joshi Deepti , Panwar Hemlata
Published: September 2023

Ewing’s Sarcomas (ES)/Peripheral neuroectodermal tumour (pPNET) are heterogenous group of rare, highly malignant, undifferentiated primitive round-cell neoplasms of neuroectodermal origin. pPNETs are seldom observed to involve the spine of which Spinal Intradural Extramedullary Extraosseous Primary ES/pPNET are extremely rare. We report a case of a 23-year-old male with complaints of low backache and hip pain radiating to the left inguinal region for four months. Radiology findings were suggestive of a neurogenic tumour. Cytomorphology, histomorphology and immunohistochemistry evaluation were done. Diagnosis was consistent with ES/pPNET. Careful correlation between clinical history, cytomorphology, histopathology, immunohistochemical and molecular analysis can help to distinguish primary spinal ES/PNET from other primary spinal tumours and will help clinicians to start treatment at the earliest.
Combining imitation and deep reinforcement learning to human-level performance on a virtual foraging task
Authors: Giammarino Vittorio , Dunne Matthew F , Moore Kylie N , Hasselmo Michael E , Stern Chantal E , Paschalidis Ioannis Ch
Published: September 2023

We develop a framework to learn bio-inspired foraging policies using human data. We conduct an experiment where humans are virtually immersed in an open field foraging environment and are trained to collect the highest amount of rewards. A Markov Decision Process (MDP) framework is introduced to model the human decision dynamics. Then, Imitation Learning (IL) based on maximum likelihood estimation is used to train Neural Networks (NN) that map human decisions to observed states. The results show that passive imitation substantially underperforms humans. We further refine the human-inspired policies via Reinforcement Learning (RL) using the on-policy Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) algorithm which shows better stability than other algorithms and can steadily improve the policies pre-trained with IL. We show that the combination of IL and RL match human performance and that the artificial agents trained with our approach can quickly adapt to reward distribution shift. We finally show that good performance and robustness to reward distribution shift strongly depend on combining allocentric information with an egocentric representation of the environment.
Representing and Regulating: How Gay Men Have Been Incorporated Into China’s Evolving HIV/AIDS Policies, 1987–2019
Authors: Sun Zhipeng , Yang Meixia
Published: September 2023

This paper examined how gay men were incorporated into China’s HIV/AIDS policies from 1987 to 2019. We also explored how these policies reflect the country’s broader position regarding homosexuality. A textual analysis method was adopted using China’s national-level HIV/AIDS policies, regulations, a nd guidelines (1987–2019, N = 26). Three periods related to the incorporation of gay men into China’s HIV/AIDS policies were identified: 1987–1990, 1991–2001, and 2002–present, based on whether gay men are explicitly mentioned in the national HIV/AIDS policies. Four ways in which gay men are addressed through national HIV/AIDS policies were identified. Notably, heteronormativity-related moral and sex education remains in place in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic among gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM), while homosexuality has already symbolically decriminalized and depathologized since the late 1990s and the early 2000s, respectively. Additionally, increased education on sexual orientation was included in the HIV/AIDS policy as of 2017. While China’s pragmatic approach to HIV/AIDS has contributed to the increased visibility and representation of gay men in official and public discourse, the country’s response to HIV/AIDS seems to reflect its persistent regulation of nonnormative sexuality as well as moral control toward homosexuality. Other underlying issues regarding China’s HIV/AIDS policies and suggestions to improve HIV/AIDS governance are also discussed.
Contextualizing Cisgender Women's Histories of Intimate Partner Violence Victimization With Men and Women
Authors: McCauley Heather L. , Reid Taylor A. , Anderson RaeAnn E. , Ast Roxanna , Zelazny Sarah , Miller Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Sexual minoritized women (SMW) are more likely than exclusively heterosexual women to experience intimate partner violence (IPV). We conducted in-depth interviews with a clinic-based sample of plurisexual SMW ( n = 25) ages 18 to 34 about the gender of their perpetrators. Participants primarily experienced physical and sexual IPV in relationships with men and emotional abuse in relationships with women. IPV perpetrated by men often included weapons with women fearing for their lives. Offering patients information about IPV resources and supports that do not make assumptions about women's sexualities may create more opportunity for empathic and effective communication with SMW experiencing IPV.
Clinical predictions of COVID-19 patients using deep stacking neural networks
Authors: Hussain Sajid , Songhua Xu , Aslam Muhammad Usman , Hussain Fida
Published: September 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which emerged in late 2019, has caused millions of infections and fatalities globally, disrupting various aspects of human society, including socioeconomic, political, and educational systems. One of the key challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic is accurately predicting the clinical development and outcome of the infected patients. In response, scientists and medical professionals globally have mobilized to develop prognostic strategies such as risk scores, biomarkers, and machine learning models to predict the clinical course and outcomes of COVID-19 patients. In this contribution, we deployed a mathematical approach called matrix factorization feature selection to select the most relevant features from the anonymized laboratory biomarkers and demographic data of COVID-19 patients. Based on these features, developed a model that leverages the deep stacking neural network (DSNN) to aid in clinical care by predicting patients’ mortality risk. To gauge the performance of our suggested model, performed a comparative analysis with principal component analysis plus support vector machine, deep learning, and random forest, achieving outstanding performances. The DSNN model outperformed all the other models in terms of area under the curve (96.0%), F1-score (98.1%), recall (98.5%), accuracy (99.0%), precision (97.7%), specificity (97.0%), and maximum probability of correction decision (93.4%). Our model outperforms the clinical predictive models regarding patient mortality risk and classification in the literature. Therefore, we conclude that our robust model can help healthcare professionals to manage COVID-19 patients more effectively. We expect that early prediction of COVID-19 patients and preventive interventions can reduce the mortality risk of patients.
Use of wound infusion catheters for postoperative local anaesthetic administration in cats
Authors: Kazmir-Lysak Kristina , Torres-Cantó Lucía , Ingraffia Sara , Romanelli Giorgio , Massari Federico , Rossanese Matteo , Compagnone Krizia , Pisani Guido , Cinti Filippo , Montinaro Vincenzo , Collivignarelli Francesco , Okushima Sayaka , Vallefuoco Rosario
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The present study aimed to document the use of the wound infusion catheter (WIC) following a variety of surgical procedures in cats, investigating complications and risk factors associated with catheter placement or local anaesthetic (LA) administration.

Methods

A retrospective, multicentric study was performed. Medical databases of eight veterinary referral hospitals from 2010 to 2021 were searched to identify records of cats where WICs were used. Information regarding signalment, type of surgery, size and type of WIC placed, and LA protocol used, as well as postoperative complications, were retrieved.

Results

One hundred and sixty-six cases fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Feline injection site sarcoma resection was the most common surgery. Overall complications were identified in 22/166 cats (13.2%). Thirteen cats (7.8%) experienced wound-related complications, whereas nine cats (5.4%) experienced drug-delivery complications. The only factor associated with an increased risk of complications was the amount of a single dose of LA delivered through the catheter ( P <0.001). An amount higher than 2.5 ml of LA delivered at each administration was associated with an increased risk of complications. All complications were minor and self-limiting.

Conclusions and relevance

WICs were used for a large variety of surgical procedures with different protocols of LA administration as part of a multimodal analgesic plan in cats. The risk of complications was relatively low and self-limiting, suggesting its safe use in cats. Further prospective studies are required to evaluate efficacy of postoperative analgesia and to determine the suitable protocol for WIC handling and maintenance.
Pegylated-l-asparaginase therapy for feline large cell lymphoma: 82 cases (2017–2020)
Authors: Bik Céline A , Ruijter Bart R , Van den Bossche Lindsay , Teske Erik , Niessen Stijn JM , Forcada Yaiza
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The present study aimed to investigate pegylated-l-asparaginase monotherapy for feline large cell lymphoma as a potential alternative to palliative corticosteroids treatment in animals whose owners declined cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Methods

A retrospective, descriptive case series of cats treated initially with pegylated-l-asparaginase as a sole therapy for feline large cell lymphoma is reported. The treatment protocol consisted of 12 intramuscular injections of pegylated-l-asparaginase with increasing intervals. If cats were unresponsive to pegylated-l-asparaginase monotherapy, a second-line treatment was initiated. Signalment, origin of lymphoma, staging, treatment, possible adverse events and follow-up data were extracted from the medical records. Responses and survival data were analysed.

Results

Eighty-two cats with lymphoma of five different anatomic types were included: alimentary, abdominal extra-alimentary, peripheral nodal, nasal/nasopharyngeal and other (mediastinal, renal [solitary] and miscellaneous combined in one group for analytical purposes). The response rate was 74.1% (95% confidence interval = 63.4–83.5) with 38.3% (95% confidence interval = 27.8–48.8) in complete remission. The median disease-free period and calculated overall survival time were 70 days (12–1702+) and 79 days (1–1715+), respectively. The response rate was significantly correlated with the origin of the lymphoma and the combined group had a significantly lower response rate ( P = 0.035). Twenty-four cats were also treated with corticosteroids. There was no significant difference in outcomes between the group treated with or without corticosteroids. Adverse events were present in a small number of cats (14/82). The majority of these adverse events were mild to moderate in 5/14 cats; however, the adverse events were severe enough to cause discontinuation of therapy.

Conclusions and relevance

Based on the response rate and median disease-free period, treatment with pegylated-l-asparaginase is inferior when compared with historical chemotherapy protocols. However, some cats demonstrated an exceptional long disease-free period. Therefore, pegylated-l-asparaginase could be offered as an alternative to corticosteroid therapy alone. Further studies are needed to evaluate the additional benefit over palliative corticosteroid monotherapy.
Understanding the Shared Meaning of Recovery From Substance Use Disorders: New Findings From the What is Recovery? Study
Authors: Zemore Sarah E , Ziemer Kelly L , Gilbert Paul A , Karno Mitchell P , Kaskutas Lee Ann
Published: September 2023

Background:

Substance use disorder (SUD) resolution typically involves a long-term, comprehensive process of change now widely referred to as “recovery.” Yet, definitions of recovery vary substantially, producing significant confusion. To support formal recovery definitions, we aimed to systematically identify recovery elements that are central to those in recovery and shared regardless of subgroup/pathway.

Methods:

Data were from the What is Recovery? Study, involving a diverse, national, online survey of people in recovery (N = 9341). Surveys included a 35-item recovery measure reflecting 4 domains; participants reported whether or not each element definitely belonged in their recovery definitions. Analyses examined item endorsements overall and among 30 subgroups defined a priori (by sociodemographics, substance use characteristics, and help-seeking history) to determine where items met study-specific centrality thresholds (ie, endorsement by ⩾80% and top-10 ranking, by endorsement level). We then classified items as “core” if meeting centrality thresholds both overall and for all 30 subgroups, and “prevalent” if meeting centrality thresholds overall and for 26 to 29 subgroups.

Results:

Four “core” recovery elements emerged, including a process of growth or development; being honest with oneself; taking responsibility for the things one can change; and reacting in a more balanced way. Four “prevalent” recovery elements also emerged, referencing the ability to enjoy life and handle negative feelings without substance use; abstinence and/or nonproblematic substance use; and living a life that contributes. Subgroups differing most in their endorsements included those reporting mild/moderate SUD severity; non-abstinent recovery; and no specialty treatment or mutual-help group attendance.

Conclusions:

Recovery elements identified here partially reflect some stakeholder definitions, but offer greater specificity and include novel elements (eg, personal integrity). Elements may point to areas of functioning that are damaged in the addiction process and can support an addiction-free life. Findings should inform institutional recovery definitions; SUD services and research; and communications about recovery.
The Status of School Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Progress Towards Achieving the SDG 6
Authors: Melaku Abayneh , Mengistie Bezatu , Addis Taffere
Published: September 2023

Background:

The provision of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities and services for schools is vital to students’ health, development, and educational performance. However, school WASH coverage in developing countries remains low. This study aimed to assess the adequacy of WASH services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A school-based quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2020 in 98 schools. A multistage sampling technique was used to select schools included in the study. Data were collected using observational checklists and pretested interviewer-administered questionnaires. We entered the data into EPI Info version 7.2.2.6 and analyzed using SPSS 22.0. Logistic regression was used to examine the associated factors with school WASH services.

Results:

The basic school water, sanitation, and hygiene services were found to be 65.3%, 31.6%, and 36.7%, respectively. The facility-to-student ratio was 1:48 for drinking water point, 1:59 for toilet stance, and 1:147 for handwashing point. The analysis of facilities access by sex revealed that the toilet to student ratio was 1:68 for females and 1:49 for males, whereas the handwashing point-to-student ratio was 1:179 for females and 1:114 for males, indicating disparities in facilities access by sex. The non-functionality rates for drinking water, toilets, and handwashing facilities were 22.5%, 8%, and 19.5%, respectively. School ownership was significantly associated with the availability of basic water services [COR = 4.6, 95% CI: 1.466-14.426] and basic sanitation services [COR = 15, 95% CI: 3.27-68.28]. Moreover, the results demonstrate training on WASH [COR = 5, 95% CI: 1.087-23.018] and teaching programs on WASH [COR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.056-0.810] were significantly associated with basic hygiene services.

Conclusions:

The provision of WASH facilities and services in schools was inadequate and not on track to meet the targets of SDG 6. Training, WASH education program, and stakeholder commitment and cooperation at all levels are required to achieve the goal.
Ja’miezing’s Podcast Persona: Intertextual and Intercommunicative
Authors: Connell Jasmyn , Moore Christopher
Published: September 2023

An online persona is a public presentation of a human or non-human actor such as organisations and locations, digital objects, artificial intelligence, and media texts. This article provides an analysis of the online persona of the Australian satirical comedy podcast, Ja'miezing. Written, directed, performed, and produced by comedian Chris Lilley, Ja'miezing is a narrative podcast series that features the intimate details of the post-high school life of the character Ja’mie. The podcast launched following Lilley’s online cancellation which resulted in his previous mockumentary television shows being removed from Netflix and the Australian Broadcast Corporation’s video-on-demand service, ABC iview. The study builds on the five dimensions of persona – public, mediatised, performative, collective, and value – by drawing on contributions from podcast studies to better understand the unique features and practices of podcast personas. It seeks to untangle the complex interplay between the intertextual and intercommunicative connections of podcast producer, host, character, platform, and audience micropublics as they contribute to the online presentation of the podcast’s persona. The article highlights the potential of podcast personas as a unique form of a non-human online persona that requires further investigation. This approach also has implications for how to consider other forms of mediated communication with online personas.
Discussing basic human needs: Insights into collective reflexivity in Global Social Policy
Authors: Mahlert Bettina
Published: September 2023

This article addresses practices of collective self-reflexivity by discussing feedbacks related to an Article on basic human needs. As more people came in to provide feedback, it became more interdisciplinary and moved from a purely academic towards a more policy-oriented view. The article illustrates how scholars with different backgrounds approach an issue (basic needs) that is highly relevant for Global Social Policy. Three aspects of collective reflexivity are addressed: discussions related to internal or external boundaries of GSP; reflections on disciplinary resources, such as theories and methods; and discussions that performatively establish, preserve or undermine collectivity. Collective reflexivity of these three aspects ranged from critical and concise discussions of fundamental conceptual issues to indifference to creative application of the basic needs concept. The basic needs concept was controversial, yet at the same time the process of collectivity was productive. The article concludes by asking how collective reflexivity can be carried out so as to be progressive.
Eliminating the gendered division of labor: The argument from primary goods
Authors: Vedder Ophelia
Published: September 2023

While Susan Moller Okin found much to celebrate in Rawls's earlier articulation of his theory of justice, she worried that his later turn to political liberalism evacuated his theory of its feminist potential. Here, I argue that we need not be so pessimistic: some of the strongest arguments for pursuing certain feminist projects can and should be made from within a politically liberal framework. In advancing this claim, I develop Rawls's idea of primary goods—namely those goods that all citizens need qua citizens—as a key conceptual resource for arguing for the elimination of the gendered division of labor using public reason. Drawing on recent empirical literature, I point out that the gendered division of labor continues to distribute to women an unfair allocation of primary goods. I then advocate for a specific public policy, which I call Gender Egalitarian Daddy Quota—a parental leave policy that sets aside time specifically for fathers to encourage men and women to engage in childcare related leave-taking to similar extents—on the grounds that this policy would help secure a fairer distribution of primary goods, and thus is required as a matter of justice.
Predicting the Number of “Active” Students: A Method for Preventive University Management
Authors: Karl Ferdinand Loder Alexander
Published: September 2023

Dropout prediction is an important strategic instrument for universities. The Austrian academic system relies on “student activity” for university funding, defined as accumulating 16+ ECTS credits per study year. This study proposes a combined method of machine learning and ARIMA models, predicting the number of studies eligible for funding in the next study year. Data from the University of Graz between 2013/14 and 2020/21 was used for machine learning, and data from 2011/12 to 2020/21 was used as a base for the ARIMA models. Repeated predictions for the outcome years 2018/19 to 2021/22 yielded values of accuracy at .82, precision at .76, and recall at .73. The results showed deviations between <1% and 7% from the official values. Differences may be explained by the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study offers a new approach to gaining information about future successful students, which is valuable for the implementation of preventive support structures.
An Invitation to Imagine: Conclusion of the HPP Series “What Is Anti-Racism in Health Promotion Practice?”
Authors: Bennet Wriply , Gilbert Keon L. , Roe Kathleen M.
Published: September 2023

Throughout Volume 24 (2023) of Health Promotion Practice, we presented responses to our Call for content addressing the question, “What is Anti-Racism in Health Promotion Practice?” With Editorial Board colleagues, Aditi Srivastav Bussells and Carlos Rodríguez-Diaz, we (Keon L. Gilbert and Kathleen M. Roe) sought frameworks for action and practical examples that would catalyze, support, and (re)invigorate the field in response to the urgent need to eliminate racism as a cause of inequalities in health. This conversation with artist Wriply Bennett concludes the series. We invite scholars and practitioners to review all 17 contributions to the series and to continue to ask – and address – the question ‘What is anti-racism in our practice, scholarship, and lives?”
Examining the Co-impact of Participatory Action-Oriented Research. Bringing Hidden effects to the Surface. A Case Study
Authors: Numans Wilma , Boog Juliette , Van Regenmortel Tine , Schalk René
Published: September 2023

Research impact is high on the agendas of governments and funders all over the world. As participatory action-oriented research (PAR) intends to have an impact – positive changes in policy and practice – interest in PAR is rising. But although impact may sound clear, it is susceptible to various interpretations. Hence assessing the impact of PAR is a challenge.

In this article we describe a PAR project with multi-stakeholder participation at its core, and focus on the effectiveness (co-impact) of this project. We elaborate on two interpretations of impact: findings-based and process-based impact. Although interest in research impact tends to prioritise findings-based impact which focuses on substantive results and shows little or no attention for the effects of the participation process (process-based impact), we acknowledge both types of impact. We equally value the process-based impact, as it does justice to the potential richness of participation.

In presenting our research approach and findings, we provide insight in how both findings-based (substantive results) and process-based (less tangible effects) impact can be generated and assessed.

We experienced that strict vigilance was crucial for detecting process related effects, without comprising the findings-based ones. Our research approach, with its consciously chosen sequence of actions, a variety of data gathering methods, and informed selection of stakeholder groups, appears to pay off in generating co-impact. Additionally, the operationalisation of a conceptual impact framework in an applicable impact assessment tool, proved to be useful for discovering less tangible and even hidden effects at the individual and group levels of stakeholders both within and outside the PAR setting. We believe that focusing on substantive results only undervalues the richness of the process of participation and its related effects.
The motion reliability analysis of a series system with multiple coordinated manipulators
Authors: Wang Wei , Xu Zequan , Li Qinchuan , Wang Jin , Huo Ran , Lu Guodong
Published: September 2023

Coordinated manipulators can construct a series system, such that all the position error of the end-effector is required to remain within the permissible limit. This article proposed a new method to handle the problem of reliability analysis involving in multiple failure modes. The extreme value of the position error is introduced to construct a surrogate model to replace the original failure event, the moment with fraction order instead of the traditional integer is applied to derive the best-fit distribution of the extreme value based on the maximum entropy principle. The innovations mainly include: (1) the high efficient dimension reduction via the surrogate model constructed with the extreme value and (2) a better probability density function is derived through the fractional moment. A series system consists of three manipulators is used as an example to demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Depth effect on point shear wave velocity elastography: Evidence in a chronic hepatitis C patient cohort
Authors: Rizzo Leonardo , L’Abbate Luca , Attanasio Massimo , Montineri Arturo , Magliocco Salvatore , Calvaruso Vincenza
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims:

This study investigated the depth-related bias and the influence of scan plane angle on performance of point-shear-wave elastometry in a chronic hepatitis C patient cohort.

Materials and Methods:

We included 104 patients affected by chronic liver disease related to the hepatitis C virus. Liver surface nodularity was the reference to diagnose cirrhosis. The ultrasound platform was the Siemens S2000, equipped with point-shear-wave elastometry software. Measurements were obtained in left lateral decubitus from the liver surface to the maximum depth of 8 cm in two orthogonal scan planes according to a standard sampling plane. Scatterplot and box plots explored the depth-related bias graphically. The area under the receiver operating characteristic was used to determine the point-shear-wave elastometry diagnostic performance at progressive depths according to liver surface nodularity.

Results:

Of the 104 patients, 68 were cirrhotics. Depth-related bias equally modified point-shear-wave elastometry in the two orthogonal scan planes. A better point-shear-wave elastometry diagnostic performance was observed between depths of 4 and 5 cm. The frontal scan plane assured better discrimination between cirrhotic patients and non-cirrhotic patients.

Conclusion:

Depth is crucial for point-shear-wave elastometry performance. Excellent diagnostic performance at a depth between 4 and 5 cm can also be obtained with a smaller number of measurements than previously recommended.
A Random Forest clustering to explore the influence of physical fitness level of youth basketball players on match-related physical performance
Authors: Marqués-Jiménez Diego , Raya-González Javier , Sánchez-Díaz Silvia , Castillo Daniel
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to analyse the influence of different physical fitness levels of youth basketball players on match-related physical performance, using Random Forest clustering to distinguish between high-fitness level players and low-fitness level players. Twenty male youth basketball players completed the following physical performance tests in two separate sessions: bilateral and unilateral countermovement jumps, bilateral and unilateral horizontal jumps, single leg lateral jumps, the 20 m linear straight sprint test, the 505 test and a repeated sprint ability test. 1 week after the second testing day, players completed a simulated match while external loads were monitored using an ultra-wide band-based Local Positioning System. A Random Forest clustering was used to create two different clusters composed of players with similar physical fitness attributes (high- and low-fitness level players). Results indicate that the Random Forest clustering adequately discriminated among the players in different groups according to their physical fitness attributes. High-fitness level players covered more distance per min in all intensity thresholds and reached higher maximal speed and acceleration intensity during the simulated matches ( p < 0.05). These results may assist basketball practitioners in understanding running performance variations during matches and can be used to optimise preparation for individual players.
A nomogram incorporating ileal and anastomotic lesions separately to predict the long-term outcome of Crohn’s disease after ileocolonic resection
Authors: Xiong Shanshan , He Jinshen , Chen Baili , He Yao , Zeng Zhirong , Chen Minhu , Chen Zhihui , Qiu Yun , Mao Ren
Published: September 2023

Background:

The Rutgeerts score (RS) is widely used to predict postoperative recurrence after ileocolonic resection for Crohn’s disease (CD) based on the severity of lesions at the neoterminal ileum and anastomosis (RS i0–i4). However, the value of anastomotic ulcers remains controversial.

Objectives:

Our aim was to establish a nomogram model incorporating ileal and anastomotic lesions separately to predict the long-term outcomes of CD after ileal or ileocolonic resection.

Design:

A total of 136 patients with CD were included in this retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

Consecutive CD patients who underwent ileal or ileocolonic resections with postoperative ileocolonoscopy evaluation within 1 year after the surgery were included. The primary endpoint was postoperative clinical relapse (CR). An endoscopic classification separating ileal and anastomotic lesions was applied (Ix for neoterminal ileum lesions; Ax for anastomotic lesions). A nomogram was constructed to predict CR. The performance of the model was evaluated by the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results:

CR was observed in 47.1% ( n = 64) of patients within a median follow-up of 26.9 (interquartile range, 11.4–55.2) months. The risk of CR was significantly higher in patients with an RS ⩾ i2 assessed by the first postoperative endoscopy compared with patients with an RS ⩽ i1 ( p < 0.001). Moreover, the cumulative rate of CR was significantly higher in patients with ileal lesions (I1–4) compared with patients without (I0) ( p < 0.001). Besides, patients with anastomotic lesions (A1–3) had significantly higher rates of CR than patients without (A0) ( p = 0.002). A nomogram, incorporating scores of postoperative ileal or anastomotic lesions, sex, L2-subtype and perianal disease, was established. The DCA analysis indicated that the nomogram had a higher benefit for CR, especially at the timeframe of 24–60 months after index endoscopy, compared to the traditional RS score.

Conclusion:

A nomogram incorporating postoperative ileal and anastomotic lesions separately was developed to predict CR in CD patients, which may serve as a practical tool to identify high-risk patients who need timely postoperative intervention.
Insertion of inflatable penile prosthesis in the neophallus of assigned female at birth individuals: a systematic review of surgical techniques, complications and outcomes
Authors: Pang Karl H. , Christopher Nim , Ralph David J. , Lee Wai Gin
Published: September 2023

Devices such as inflatable penile prostheses (IPP) can be used to achieve erectile rigidity after phalloplasty in assigned female at birth (AFAB) individuals. The approach to inserting an IPP in a neophallus is different and more challenging compared to that of an anatomical penis due to the absence of anatomical structures such as the corpora cavernosa, and the more tenuous blood supply of the neophallus and reconstructed urethra. In addition, the ideal surgical techniques and devices for use in the neophallus have not been defined. This review systematically summarises the literature on the insertion of IPP in the neophallus of individuals AFAB. In particular, the described techniques, types of devices used and peri-operative and patient-reported outcomes are emphasised. An initial search of the PubMed database was performed on 16 September 2022 and an updated search was performed on 26 May 2023. Overall, 185 articles were screened for eligibility and 15 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Two studies reported outcomes on the zephyr surgical implant 475 FTM device and the others reported outcomes on the Boston Scientific AMS 600/700TM CX 3-piece inflatable, AMS AmbicorTM 2-piece inflatable, Coloplast Titan® or Dynaflex devices. Overall, 1106 IPPs were analysed. The infection rate was 4.2%–50%, with most studies reporting an infection rate of <30%. Mechanical failure or dysfunction occurred in 1.4%–36.4%, explantation was required in 3.3%–41.6%, and implant revision or replacement was performed in 6%–70%. Overall, 51.4%–90.6% of patients were satisfied and 77%–100% were engaging in sexual intercourse. An IPP in a neophallus is an acceptable option to achieve rigidity for sexual intercourse. However, this challenging procedure has good reports of patient and partner satisfaction despite significant risks of complications.
Germline BRCA testing in pancreatic cancer: improving awareness, timing, turnaround, and uptake
Authors: Golan Talia , Casolino Raffaella , Biankin Andrew V. , Hammel Pascal , Whitaker Kristen D. , Hall Michael J. , Riegert-Johnson Douglas L.
Published: September 2023

Prognosis is generally poor for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. However, patients with germline BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations (gBRCAm) may benefit from first-line platinum-based chemotherapy and maintenance therapy with the poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase inhibitor olaparib following at least 16 weeks of first-line platinum-based chemotherapy without disease progression. Germline breast cancer gene (BRCA) testing is therefore important to ensure that patients receive the most effective treatment. In addition, testing for other DNA damage response gene mutations beyond gBRCAm may also guide treatment decisions. However, clinical pathways for genetic testing are often suboptimal, leading to delays in treatment initiation or missed opportunities for personalized therapy. Barriers to testing include low rates of referral and uptake, delays to referral and slow result turnaround times, cost, and biopsy and assay limitations if somatic testing is performed, leading to the requirement for subsequent dedicated germline testing. Low rates of referral may result from lack of awareness among physicians of the clinical value of testing, coupled with low confidence in interpreting test results and poor availability of genetic counseling services. Among patients, barriers to uptake may include similar lack of awareness of the clinical value of testing, anxiety regarding the implications of test results, lack of insurance coverage, fear of negative insurance implications, and socioeconomic factors. Potential solutions include innovative approaches to testing pathways, including ‘mainstreaming’ of testing in which BRCA tests are routinely arranged by the treating oncologist, with the involvement of genetic counselors if a patient is found to have a gBRCAm. More recently, the utility of multigene panel analyses has also been explored. Access to genetic counseling may also be improved through initiatives such as having a genetic counseling appointment for all new patient visits and telemedicine approaches, including the use of telephone consultations or DVD-assisted counseling. Educational programs will also be beneficial, and cost effectiveness is likely to improve as the number of targeted treatments increases and when the earlier detection of tumors in family members following cascade testing is considered.
Moving From Faith Development to Faith Engagement in Christian Schools: A Scoping Review
Authors: Archer Ben
Published: September 2023

Fowler’s theory of faith development has been the primary method of assessing faith formation in children since the 20th Century. However, despite some adjustments to Fowler’s theory, there is a need to re-examine it’s relevance in the new millennium. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of current research related to faith formation for children and situate the research in terms of Fowler’s theory of Faith Development. Utilising the Scoping Review methodology developed by Arksey & O’Malley, a review of empirical literature related to faith formation activities with children was undertaken. These articles were placed within Fowler’s Faith Developmental stages. Results indicate that Fowler’s stages of Faith Development hold little relevance to existing research. A discussion regarding the use of the term Faith Engagement as a way of describing the outcomes of faith formation activities occurs.
Barriers in Access to Idarucizumab in Ischemic Stroke in a Middle-Income Country
Authors: Rivillas Julián , Llanos-Leyton Natalia , Moreno-Vargas Eder , Bayona Hernán , Jaramillo Eugenia , Kafury Daniel , Amaya Pablo
Published: September 2023

Background and Purpose

Current stroke guidelines contraindicate the use of thrombolytics if oral anticoagulants are taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. Idarucizumab is an alternative for patients on dabigatran who experience an acute stroke, so that alteplase may be used. However, this treatment may not be readily available in low/middle-income countries. Our objective is to describe barriers to access to the administration of idarucizumab.

Methods

We applied a structured survey for health personnel, consulted databases of drug providers, and analyzed reports from the National Pharmacologic Surveillance Data to describe idarucizumab use and the related knowledge among prescribers and the drug distribution in health institutions in Colombia between January 2018 and January 2022.

Results

In total, 23.6% of the 337 interviewed physicians’ hospitals had access to idarucizumab, and 34.9% of the physicians were unaware of the use of this medication for ischemic stroke. Only 11 private institutions had access to this medication in Colombia. Four male patients with atrial fibrillation received thrombolytics for acute stroke, and two required subsequent mechanical thrombectomy. No fatal complications during hospitalization were observed. Complications included hematuria, hemorrhagic transformation and groin hematoma. None required transfusion or further intervention. All had favorable mRS scores at the 90-day follow-up.

Conclusions

There are multiple barriers to access idarucizumab in Colombia. The main factors identified are the low medication availability in provincial hospitals and the low medical knowledge. However clinical results in this limited group are satisfactory. Stronger public policies are needed to guarantee optimal stroke treatment in patients on DOACs in Colombia.
Partisan Media Sentiment Toward Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Yi Angela , Goenka Shreyans , Pandelaere Mario
Published: September 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming pervasive across society. However, its deployment appears to be a divisive issue. This research examines aversion to AI across the partisan divide. We analyze partisan media sentiment toward AI, a powerful driver of public opinion toward social issues. We conduct a text analysis of media articles on AI ( N = 7,840) from several liberal-leaning and conservative-leaning media outlets. The results demonstrate that liberal-leaning media show a greater aversion to AI than conservative-leaning media. Furthermore, a mediation analysis suggests that liberal-leaning media are more concerned with AI magnifying social biases in society than conservative-leaning media, which drives the partisan media differences. Moreover, the results also show that media sentiment toward AI became more negative after George Floyd’s death, an event that heightened sensitivity about social biases in society. Implications for how these partisan media differences can polarize public opinion and policymaker support toward AI are discussed.
Do We Know How Happy Strangers Are? Accuracy in Well-Being Judgments at Zero Acquaintance
Authors: Choi Hyewon , Diener Ed , Oishi Shigehiro
Published: September 2023

We examined the accuracy of well-being judgments by strangers using Brunswik’s lens model. A sample of 200 college students (targets) reported their self-perception of well-being (life satisfaction, positive affect, and negative affect). The targets were photographed and videotaped during their self-introductions. Various physical, nonverbal, paralinguistic, and linguistic cues were measured or rated by cue coders from the photos and videotaped self-introductions. Strangers evaluated the targets’ well-being based on the videotaped self-introductions. We found significant correlations between self- and strangers’ reports of life satisfaction and positive affect but not negative affect. Loud voice and physical attractiveness mediated the correlation between self- and stranger-reports of life satisfaction. Loud voice mediated the correlation between self- and stranger reports of positive affect. These findings suggest that strangers can accurately evaluate someone’s life satisfaction and positive affect in brief self-introductions, and loud voice and physical attractiveness are the sources of the accurate well-being judgments.
3D bioprinting of corneal models: A review of the current state and future outlook
Authors: Balters Leon , Reichl Stephan
Published: September 2023

The cornea is the outermost layer of the eye and serves to protect the eye and enable vision by refracting light. The need for cornea organ donors remains high, and the demand for an artificial alternative continues to grow. 3D bioprinting is a promising new method to create artificial organs and tissues. 3D bioprinting offers the precise spatial arrangement of biomaterials and cells to create 3D constructs. As the cornea is an avascular tissue which makes it more attractive for 3D bioprinting, it could be one of the first tissues to be made fully functional via 3D bioprinting. This review discusses the most common 3D bioprinting technologies and biomaterials used for 3D bioprinting corneal models. Additionally, the current state of 3D bioprinted corneal models, especially specific characteristics such as light transmission, biomechanics, and marker expression, and in vivo studies are discussed. Finally, the current challenges and future prospects are presented.