bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the Role of School and Neighborhood Disorder in Early Adolescents’ Future Orientation Development
Authors: Jones Denise L. , Heinze Justin , Stoddard Sarah
Published: July 2024

Developmental theories and previous research suggest that individuals do not develop separately from their environments. Yet, limited information is known about how ecological influences specifically shape early adolescents’ development. To address this, the current study examined environmental influences on early adolescents’ future orientation development. Leveraging a linear regression analysis, the current study investigated how 3,570 fifth-grade students’ exposure to school and neighborhood disorder shapes their future orientations. This study hypothesized that students’ exposure to school and neighborhood disorder would detrimentally influence their future orientations; however, the results demonstrated mixed findings. While students’ exposure to school disorder positively influenced their future orientations, their exposure to neighborhood disorder had the inverse effect. In addition, early adolescents’ future orientations were not influenced by the interaction between neighborhood and school disorder. The findings suggest that scholars should further explore mechanisms or moderators to understand the discrepancy between previous work and theory.
Artificial Intelligence for Psychotherapy: A Review of the Current State and Future Directions
Authors: Beg Mirza Jahanzeb , Verma Mohit , M. Vishvak Chanthar K. M. , Verma Manish Kumar
Published: July 2024

Background:

Psychotherapy is crucial for addressing mental health issues but is often limited by accessibility and quality. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers innovative solutions, such as automated systems for increased availability and personalized treatments to improve psychotherapy. Nonetheless, ethical concerns about AI integration in mental health care remain.

Aim:

This narrative review explores the literature on AI applications in psychotherapy, focusing on their mechanisms, effectiveness, and ethical implications, particularly for depressive and anxiety disorders.

Methods:

A review was conducted, spanning studies from January 2009 to December 2023, focusing on empirical evidence of AI’s impact on psychotherapy. Following PRISMA guidelines, the authors independently screened and selected relevant articles. The analysis of 28 studies provided a comprehensive understanding of AI’s role in the field.

Results:

The results suggest that AI can enhance psychotherapy interventions for people with anxiety and depression, especially chatbots and internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy. However, to achieve optimal outcomes, the ethical integration of AI necessitates resolving concerns about privacy, trust, and interaction between humans and AI.

Conclusion:

The study emphasizes the potential of AI-powered cognitive-behavioral therapy and conversational chatbots to address symptoms of anxiety and depression effectively. The article highlights the importance of cautiously integrating AI into mental health services, considering privacy, trust, and the relationship between humans and AI. This integration should prioritize patient well-being and assist mental health professionals while also considering ethical considerations and the prospective benefits of AI.
Bridge Proxy Indicators for Risk-Based Asset Management and Resilience Assessment
Authors: Alipour Alice , Miner Nathan
Published: July 2024

Extreme weather events pose serious threats to transportation infrastructure assets and cause difficulties for the transportation agencies managing infrastructure systems. Climate models predict an increase in the frequency and intensity of precipitation in many parts of the United States. Similar threats are expected as the developing climate trends continue to place increasing amounts of stress on transportation assets. Considering the uncertainties associated with climate trends and the ever-increasing stresses on transportation infrastructure, state departments of transportation need to assess their potential exposure to extreme weather, define appropriate vulnerability measures or proxy indicators, and plan to reverse the adverse effects of such hazards by developing mitigation strategies and planning response and recovery efforts for potential failures. Assessment of such exposure with high-fidelity models for all exposed assets is not possible. This requires a robust indicator providing an overview of the exposure, sensitivity, or adaptive capacity of a specific asset. This paper uses the available data for the state of Iowa to generate a suite of proxy indicators to assess the flood risk to bridges. The proxy indicators are stream channel instability, structural condition, and the criticality of the bridge to the network. It is expected that such proxy indicators, based on readily available data from existing national databases, could enable bridge owners to quickly assess potential vulnerabilities and start planning for them. The use of National Bridge Inventory data to develop and apply these proxy indicators will allow for scalability of the method to more US states.
Development of Bitumen Selection Criteria for Cold Recycled Bituminous Mixes with Foamed Bitumen
Authors: Ghosh Mondal Purbayan , Baditha Anil Kumar , Guduru Gurunath , Gottumukkala Bharath , Kuna Kranthi K
Published: July 2024

The objective of the present study was to develop bitumen selection criteria for cold recycled bituminous mixes (CRBMs) with foamed bitumen. The criteria were developed by investigating the influence of various factors, such as physical properties of bitumen (specifically viscosity), foam characteristics, and their interaction effect on the performance of CRBMs in terms of moisture damage resistance. CRBMs were prepared using three different types of bitumen and 70% reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) content. All compacted and cured CRBMs were tested for moisture damage resistance using the indirect tensile strength (ITS) test before and after conditioning. The test results demonstrated that the physical properties of bitumen significantly affected the moisture damage resistance of CRBMs. The characteristics of the foamed bitumen and its interaction with the physical properties of bitumen were found to be equally influential. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the selection of bitumen for CRBMs should consider both the physical properties of the bitumen and the characteristics of the foamed bitumen. A strong positive correlation was observed between the product of the foam expansion ratio (ERm) and bitumen viscosity (viscosity at 60°C × ERm), and the moisture damage resistance of CRBMs, specifically in terms of the wet indirect tensile strength (ITS-wet). Consequently, it is suggested that the product of ERm and bitumen viscosity can serve as a bitumen selection parameter for CRBMs, where a higher value of the product indicates a more suitable choice of bitumen.
Show and tell: How we make sense of each other in groups
Authors: Story Giles W.
Published: July 2024

‘Show and tell’ is a primary school activity wherein a child shows an object to the class and tells a story about it. I use this metaphor to understand group communication, with reference to Foulkes’ communicative hierarchy. I define ‘showing’ as bottom-up communication, which presents an object in search of a containing narrative. Conversely, ‘telling’ is formalized as top-down communication, providing a container in search of an object. I am concerned with what might happen, so-to-speak, if a child were to bring an object to the class only to sit in silence, or were to tell a story without bringing an object. With reference to clinical material from an analytic group, I describe instances of both kinds of communicative mismatch. I propose that the therapeutic work of the group balances showing with telling and vice versa, and in so doing fosters a more ‘joined up’ communication amongst the participants. Here, the conductor does well to have in mind an aphorism from creative writing: ‘show, don’t tell’.
Waste Plastic to Roads – HDPE-modified Bitumen and PET Plastic Fibres for Road Maintenance in South Africa: A Review
Authors: Asteray Demiss B. , Elsaigh Walied A.
Published: July 2024

This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformative potential of waste plastic in South Africa, with a specific focus on high-density polyethylene-modified bitumen and polyethylene terephthalate plastic fibres asphalt. The review encompasses a wide range of topics, including the environmental and socio-economic impacts of plastic waste, the current state of plastic waste management practices in South Africa, and the potential use of waste plastic in road construction. The aim is to critically evaluate the compatibility of recycled waste plastics as bitumen modifiers and fibre to enhance road performance. Additionally, it explores the challenges and opportunities associated with the incorporation of waste plastic in road construction, shedding light on the environmental, economic and technological aspects. The review also emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts from the South African government and industry stakeholders to address plastic waste management challenges and promote sustainable infrastructure development. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of waste plastic in South African road maintenance and offers a roadmap for future research and initiatives in this critical area of sustainable development.
Mitigation of ammonia and methane emissions with manure amendments during storage of cattle slurry
Authors: Owusu-Twum Maxwell Y , Kelleghan David , Gleasure George , Connolly Shaun , Forrestal Patrick , Lanigan Gary J , Richards Karl G , Krol Dominika J
Published: July 2024

This study aimed at assessing the efficacy of manure amendments in abating ammonia (NH3) and methane (CH4) emissions during storage. Two experiments were carried out. Experiment 1 was conducted using 20 L of slurry for 98 days. Treatments were: aluminium sulphate (alum), lactogypsum, zeolite, actiglene, ammonium thiosulphate, biochar, dairy processing waste, Digest-IT and control (without amendment). Experiment 2 was conducted using 660 L of slurry in underground storage tanks for 77 days. Treatments were: sulphuric acid, gypsum, biochar and control (without amendment). NH3 measurements for experiment 1 and experiment 2 were conducted using the photoacoustic gas monitor and dynamic chamber techniques, respectively. CH4 was measured using the static chamber technique in both experiments. The effect of amendments on slurry composition was determined at the end of the experiments. Experiment 1 showed a significant reduction in NH3 emissions in the alum (82%), lactogypsum (46%) and zeolite (32%) treatments relative to the control (100.3% total ammoniacal nitrogen (TAN)). CH4 was reduced significantly in the alum (87%), ammonium thiosulphate (64%) and lactogypsum (67%) relative to the control (291.9 g m−2). Experiment 2 showed a significant reduction (32%) in NH3 emissions in the sulphuric acid relative to the control (4.4% TAN). CH4 was reduced significantly in the sulphuric acid (46%), gypsum (39%) and biochar (15%) treatments relative to the control (291.9 g m−2). In general, amendments altered slurry composition such as dry matter, volatile solids, carbon and nitrogen contents at the end of storage. Lactogypsum, alum and sulphuric acid were effective in abating both NH3 and CH4 emissions and can contribute to improving air quality.
Solving the Riddle of Emotional Labor: How Display Rules and Emotive Intensity Interact
Authors: Hsieh Chih-Wei , Tong Yijing , Liu Fei , Guy Mary E.
Published: July 2024

There is uncertainty among emotional labor researchers as to when emotive expression leads to positive work outcomes and when it does not. This study uses the circumplex model of affect to test whether the answer lies in the interaction of display rules and emotive intensity. The model postulates that emotive experiences are two-dimensional, with gradations from positive to negative affect and from low to high intensity. The analysis uses display rules of social work, a frequent occupation in government and nonprofit services, to compare enthusiasm (high intensity), empathy (medium intensity), and calmness (low intensity). Results produce differential effects on organizational commitment and emotional exhaustion. Emotive expression has a beneficial effect when arousal is intense. Higher intensity leads to more commitment and less exhaustion. We conclude that emotive intensity is a missing link in the relationship between emotional labor and work outcomes. Implications for supervision, training, and development are discussed.
The PID high-type controller based on LQR and model-assisted LESO
Authors: Liu Chao , Qiu XiaoXia , Mao Yao
Published: July 2024

The work described in this paper proposes a PID high-type controller turning via Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) approach and pole-placement technique to level up dynamic response performance and disturbance suppression ability of the system. Meanwhile, considering the influence of the modeling error and uncertain disturbance on the stability of the control system, this paper extends the design method of the Linear Extended State Observer (LESO) to PID high-type control loop. In this paper, the tuning rule of PID high-type controller parameters without delay factor and the tuning rule of PID high-type controller parameters with delay factor are given. Finally, the simulation analysis and experimental results show that performance of the PID high-type controller are superior to the PD controller in traditional LESO and the PID type-i controller. Specifically, the system under the PID high-type controller not only eliminates the high-order steady-state error, but also can achieve high-precision tracking when the reference signal changes quickly. Meanwhile, disturbance suppression ability of the system and the dynamic response performance of the system such as rise time, settling time are significantly improved.
Rapid barrier estuary infill in a geologically-constrained setting: Aireys Inlet/Painkalac Creek, Victoria, Australia
Authors: Kennedy David M. , McSweeney Sarah L. , Rogers Ashley , Tong Colin , Goethel Rory
Published: July 2024

The Holocene infill of an intermittently open-closed barrier estuary (Painkalac Creek/Aireys Inlet) was examined on the southern margins of Australia, through aerial LiDAR, coring, sedimentology, radiocarbon dating and pollen analysis. It is found that almost all the accommodation space within the estuary has been occupied, with a thick sequence (>9 m) of sediments being deposited rapidly soon after flooding by the sea. The rate of sedimentation was 4.8 mm/year which closely matches the rate of sea level rise (4.5 mm/year) during the 1200 year period that the estuary infilled, from around 8000–6800 years ago. The evidence of estuarine deposition above the elevation of the modern intertidal zone provides significant further evidence for the presence of the mid-Holocene highstand sea level in this relatively unstudied part of the Australian coast. The pattern of infill departs from the traditional barrier evolution models. The first phase of infill was likely tide dominated with subtidal sand shoals being found landward of a subtidal bedrock sill. Once a beach-barrier sequence formed, the estuary infilled in a more traditional manner, with lateral progradation of a flood tide delta and central mud basin infill. The barrier estuary of Painkalac Creek therefore has undergone a complex evolutionary history, characterised by a change in process dominance from classic tidal to wave-dominated form. Infill occurred in a keep-up (or fast catch-up) mode, with geological control occurring in regard to the presence of an intertidal bedrock sill at the mouth of the estuary.
End of Life Care Practices at a Tertiary Cancer Centre in India: An Observational Study
Authors: Maurya Bhanu P. , Gupta Raghav , Rathore Puneet , Mishra Seema , Bharati Sachidanand J. , Kumar Vinod , Gupta Nishkarsh , Garg Rakesh , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To assess the End of life care (EOLC ) practices and the magnitude of futile care in a tertiary cancer center. To find out the barriers in provision of good EOLC in cancer patients.

Methods

An observational study was done on 129 patients. Patients were enrolled using the palliative prognostic index (PPI) in the end of life stages. Socio-demographic and clinical details were recorded. Detailed counselling done by the palliative physician or the oncologist was recorded. The barriers in provision of care were recorded.

Results

In this study initial experience of 129 patients were analyzed. PPI score was >6 (survival shorter than 3 weeks) in 85 (65.89%) ; 34 (26.36%) had PPI score between >4 to 6 (survival between 3 to 6 weeks); and 10 (7.75%) patients had PPI score less than equal to 4( survival more than 6 weeks).77 (59.69%) patients preferred home as their place for EOLC while 41(31.78%) preferred hospital, 7 (5.43%) preferred hospice while 4 (3.10%) opted ICU for their EOLC . The most common barrier associated was caregiver related in 34 case, followed by physician related in 14 cases and patients related in 3 cases, because of hope of being cured in hospital, social stigma, fear of worsening of symptoms at home, denial.

Conclusion

EOLC is the least studied part of patient care with various barriers. With proper communication and a good palliative care support, futile treatment can be avoided. With healthy communication we can empower family members and patients for a good EOLC.
Unique Considerations for Forensic Interviews With Adolescents: An Exploration of Expert Interviewers’ Perspectives
Authors: Deck Sarah L. , Quas Jodi A. , Powell Martine B.
Published: July 2024

Although adolescents are at elevated risk of sexual victimisation, very limited research has focused on how best to interview suspected adolescent victims. The current study was conducted to lay the groundwork for the development of best-practice interviewing approaches with adolescents when sexual victimisation is suspected. Expert interviewers with experience and knowledge in interviewing suspected adolescent victims were asked about common challenges they encounter with adolescent interviewees and how they tailor their interviews for this population. The findings indicated that adolescents are often reluctant to disclose, and the strategies the interviewers use to meet the unique needs of adolescents hinge on respecting each adolescent as a relatively autonomous and independent person. Identifying which strategies expert interviewers use is a fruitful starting point for future experimental research that can test and ultimately develop evidence-based practices for this population, which is necessary to help interviewers interact with suspected adolescent victims in ways that align with their psychosocial and cognitive maturity.
Description of outcome and adverse events in 21 cats with locally advanced nasal planum squamous cell carcinoma treated with electrochemotherapy
Authors: Ferrer-Jorda Elena , Rodríguez-Pizà Ignacio
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common tumour in the nasal planum of cats. Surgery has traditionally been the treatment of choice but might not be feasible in locally advanced scenarios. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) has shown good control in superficial tumours, but there is a lack of robust information about efficacy in locally advanced cases. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of ECT in the treatment of locally advanced stage nasal planum SCC in cats.

Methods

The clinical database of a veterinary referral hospital was searched retrospectively for cats diagnosed with a locally advanced nasal planum SCC (T3N0M0 or T4N0M0) that had received ECT. Local response, adverse events and outcome were documented. The data were evaluated by inferential statistics and correlations between response, recurrence, feline immunodeficiency virus/feline leukaemia virus status, number of treatments, voltage and severity of adverse events, with Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank tests. Statistical significance was set at P <0.05.

Results

In total, 21 cats were enrolled over a 4-year period. Nineteen cats achieved a complete response (CR) and two cats a partial response (PR) for an overall response rate of 100%. Cats achieving a CR had a median disease-free interval of 182 days (range 128–327) and those with a PR had a median progression-free survival of 156.5 days (range 122–191). The median time to progression was not reached. The overall survival was 453 days for a median follow-up of 341 days (range 191–989). Of the cats, 62% had grade 3 or 4 toxicities, but no deaths due to the treatment were documented. Only voltage was correlated with longer survival ( P = 0.001).

Conclusions and relevance

ECT appears to be an effective treatment for feline nasal planum SCC and could be considered a first-line therapy for locally advanced cases. Toxicities reported can be severe in the short term and these could be secondary to more invasive lesions and equipment used.
High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in seven cats with respiratory failure
Authors: Her Jiwoong , Verwaerde Patrick , Baker Chloe E , Allaouchiche Bernard , Pouzot-Nevoret Céline
Published: July 2024

Case series summary

This case series describes seven cats that were treated with high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNOT). Seven cats were prospectively (n = 5) or retrospectively (n = 2) included from three veterinary university referral centers between March 2020 and September 2023. Data on signalment, medical history, clinical and diagnostic findings, treatment administered, response to HFNOT and outcomes were recorded. All cats included in this case series failed to respond to oxygen cage or flow-by oxygen therapy and were subsequently transitioned to HFNOT. After this transition, these cats demonstrated a marked improvement in respiratory parameters, including respiratory rate, effort and oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry, within 1 h of initiating HFNOT. All cats tolerated HFNOT well without any complications.

Relevance and novel information

There is limited literature reporting the use of HFNOT in feline patients. This is the first case series in the literature of HFNOT utilized as an advanced oxygen delivery method for feline respiratory failure. This case series indicates that HFNOT improves oxygenation in feline patients that fail to respond to conventional oxygen therapy.
Effect of oral administration of pregabalin on physiological and echocardiographic variables in healthy cats
Authors: Li Meng , Wu Yue , Chen Hangbin , Xu Xinyi , Peng Haojie , Wei Bingyan , Zhu Yunjie , Yang Zhen
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of oral pregabalin (PGB) for sedation and its impact on physiological and echocardiographic variables in healthy cats.

Methods

This study was a randomised, blinded, crossover trial. Eight cats were randomly assigned to receive PGB or placebo, with a 1-week washout period between each administration. Cats in the treatment group received oral PGB at varying doses (low dose: 2.5 mg/kg, medium dose: 5 mg/kg, high dose: 10 mg/kg). Systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (RR) and sedation score were measured at intervals of 30 mins after administration. Echocardiography was performed 120 mins after administration.

Results

Oral administration of PGB 2.5 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg significantly increased sedation scores starting at 150 mins, while 10 mg/kg PGB showed a significant increase in sedation scores starting at 120 mins compared with placebo. PGB 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg resulted in a significant reduction in SBP compared with placebo, with minimal impact on PR and RR. In addition, PGB 10 mg/kg resulted in significant changes in the peak velocity of late diastolic transmitral flow (A) and the ratio of peak velocity of early diastolic transmitral flow and A; however, these changes were of marginal clinical significance.

Conclusions and relevance

A single dose of oral PGB could cause mild to moderate sedation. Hypotension was more prevalent in the PGB 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg groups among the majority of cats, but it was less frequently observed in the PGB 2.5 mg/kg group.
Unusual Presentation of Thoracic Chordoma with Spinal Epidural Hematoma: A Rare Case Report and PRISMA-Driven Systematic Review
Authors: Abualkhair Khaled Alsayed , Sharif Asmaa F. , Eid Hadeel , ElToukhy Ahmed G , Ezzat Mohammad , Taha Mahmoud M
Published: July 2024

A chordoma is a slow growing, locally invasive, low-grade tumor belonging to the sarcoma family. It mainly affects the sacrum and skull base. We present a case of thoracic chordoma initially presented with epidural hematoma (EDH), which is a rare clinical entity. We reported this case, and also performed a PRISMA-driven systematic review to summary the similar cases in the literature. This review includes the clinical characteristics and outcome of thoracic chordoma. Our case involves a 60-year-old male who, despite no history of trauma, presented with acute paraparesis. An epidural hematoma was identified at T6 level, leading to a surgical intervention involving T4-6 laminectomy and fixation. Six months subsequent to surgery, the patient experienced progressive lower limb weakness and spasticity. Computed tomography (CT) exhibited erosion of T6 and an associated aggressive mass. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large heterogenous soft tissue mass arising from the vertebral body and right pedicle of D6, protruding in the epidural space and compressing the spinal cord focally at this level. The mass measured approximately 5 × 4 × 3.5 cm. Magnetic resonance myelography indicated a filling defect at T5–6 level, confirming the intraspinal location of the soft tissue lesion. Complete excision of the mass confirmed the diagnosis of thoracic chordoma. Postoperative follow-up demonstrated notable improvement in the lower limb spasticity and paraparesis, and the patient started adjuvant radiotherapy. This case underscores the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion when evaluating presentations resembling EDH.
Caught in the act – pancreatic actinomycosis masquerading as malignancy
Authors: Thomas Nikhil Kenny , Thomas John P , Swaminathan Mukundan
Published: July 2024

A 57-year-old male with a background of chronic pancreatitis presented with acutely worsening abdominal pain and vomiting. He previously had a pancreatic duct stent in situ which had been removed 1 year prior to presentation. Initially suspected to be acute-on-chronic pancreatitis, a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed an atrophic pancreas and a new mass in the pancreatic head, raising the suspicion of pancreatic malignancy. An urgent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine needle biopsy of the pancreatic head mass surprisingly revealed the presence of actinomyces colonies on histological evaluation. Prompt initiation of a prolonged antibiotic course led to significant clinical and radiological improvement. This case highlights the rare presentation of pancreatic actinomycosis which can often masquerade as malignancy. Although a gut commensal, actinomyces can elicit pathogenic effects if allowed to enter tissues through a breach in the mucosal lining such as following abdominal surgery or pancreatic duct intervention as observed in this case. Early recognition and appropriate treatment with antibiotics can lead to clinical recovery and complete resolution of the infection.
Students Educated With Alternate Curriculum in Elementary School: Timing, Switching, and Educational Placements
Authors: Maurer Karolyn J. , Sturm Alexandra , Kasari Connie
Published: July 2024

While most students receiving special education services in school are educated with the same general curriculum (i.e., instructional materials) as their peers without disabilities, students with extensive support needs and significant cognitive disabilities may qualify to receive instruction with alternate curricular materials aligned with alternate content standards. Available special education data, however, do not provide information about students who are educated with alternate curriculum specifically. This study aims to address this gap by reviewing special education administrative data from a large urban school district to identify timing, placements, and switching patterns of alternate curriculum participation in elementary school ( N = 11,399). Results indicated the majority of students instructed with alternate curriculum received special education services under intellectual disability, autism, or orthopedic impairment eligibility. Students were mostly educated in traditional public day schools, but nearly 97% of students in the sample had a primary placement of a special education classroom. Over 50% of students started with alternate curriculum instruction in grades transitional kindergarten/kindergarten or first grade. High rates of students educated with alternate curriculum in early elementary grades suggest lack of access to general curriculum and general education classrooms. Implications for future research are discussed.
The treatment of primary biliary cholangitis: from shadow to light
Authors: Drazilova Sylvia , Koky Tomas , Macej Marian , Janicko Martin , Simkova Dagmar , Jarcuska Peter
Published: July 2024

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune cholestatic disease characterized by the destruction of the small intrahepatic bile ducts, which can progress to liver cirrhosis. The gold standard in the treatment of PBC is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which is indicated in all patients with PBC because it improves not only biochemical parameters but also patients’ survival. An important milestone in the identification of patients at risk is the assessment of biochemical response to UDCA. Patients who respond to treatment have a lower incidence of hepatic events and better prognosis than patients who do not. Several scoring systems can be used to assess the response and identify non-responders who will benefit from second-line treatment. Obeticholic acid (OCA) is currently the only approved second-line treatment for PBC, which is effective for non-responders to UDCA therapy or patients, who have not tolerated UDCA therapy. However, OCA is contraindicated in advanced liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Moreover, pruritus may be a limiting factor for the administration of OCA. Fibrates have shown promising data supporting their use in non-responders to UDCA because they improve the biochemical parameters and elastographic findings and have possible antipruritic effects. Therefore, the idea of a triple treatment seems interesting. Clinical research is focusing on several other groups of drugs: peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) δ- and α/δ agonists, non-steroidal farnesoid X receptor agonists, fibroblast growth factor 19 modulators, and inhibitors of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 and 4.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on BMI in youth living with HIV
Authors: Mogasala Saiteja , Helzer Catherine , Welch Robert D , Secord Elizabeth , McGrath Eric
Published: July 2024

Background:

Many youth saw a rise in body mass index and obesity during the COVID-19 pandemic associated with virtual schooling and a lack of physical exercise options due to lockdown orders. However, the impact of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic on body mass index in HIV-infected youth on anti-viral therapy has not been studied.

Objective:

This study examined COVID-19’s impact on body mass index in 157 behaviorally acquired and 39 perinatally acquired youth living with HIV.

Methods:

Retrospective chart analysis was conducted for body mass index records across pre-COVID, COVID, and post-COVID periods.

Results:

Age and acquired type showed significant associations with increased body mass index. Limitations included missing data and physiological body mass index changes.

Conclusion:

The perinatally acquired group’s body mass index increased by 1.6 during and 2.3 post-pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. Longitudinal follow-up of body mass index changes is needed in this vulnerable population.
Congenital hydrocephalus and ligneous conjunctivitis in two children with severe type I plasminogen deficiency: A case report and literature review
Authors: Jaber Doha , Jaber Inas , Abdallah Tumodir , Dababseh Hadi , Kharousha Abdalwahab
Published: July 2024

Type I plasminogen (PLG I) deficiency is a genetic disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive mode and carries high mortality and morbidity. This case report discusses two babies, aged 2 and 3 months, who were diagnosed with ligneous conjunctivitis and congenital hydrocephalus. They had progressive macrocephaly, which led to the insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. However, there was no significant improvement. During the course of the disease, they underwent genetic testing and were diagnosed with PLG I deficiency. One of the babies underwent ventriculocholecystic shunt insertion as part of palliative care and management, since this disease has poor absorption in the peritoneal cavity. Unfortunately, there was no improvement observed, and he died at 18 months. The other baby received intravenous plasma (10 ml/kg) three times a week, plus using several eye drops daily, with moderate improvement. Promising results are expected with the approved plasminogen, human-tvmh, by the Food and Drug Administration. However, access to the newly approved drug in developing countries is challenging, often hindered by cost or supply issues, necessitating the use of alternative treatments.
Comparison of Classically and Machine Learning Generated Survival Prediction Models for Patients With Spinal Metastasis - A meta-Analysis of Two Recently Developed Algorithms
Authors: Yen Hung-Kuan , Lin Wei-Hsin , Groot Olivier Quinten , Chen Chih-Wei , Yang Jiun-Jen , Bongers Michiel Erik Reinier , Karhade Aditya , Shah Akash , Yang Tse-Chuan , Bindels Bas JJ , Dai Shih-Hsiang , Verlaan Jorrit-Jan , Schwab Joseph , Yang Shu-Hua , Hornicek Francis J. , Hu Ming-Hsiao
Published: July 2024

Study Design

A systemic review and a meta-analysis. We also provided a retrospective cohort for validation in this study.

Objective

(1) Using a meta-analysis to determine the pooled discriminatory ability of The Skeletal Oncology Research Group (SORG) classical algorithm (CA) and machine learning algorithms (MLA); and (2) test the hypothesis that SORG-CA has less variability in performance than SORG-MLA in non-American validation cohorts as SORG-CA does not incorporates regional-specific variables such as body mass index as input.

Methods

After data extraction from the included studies, logit-transformation was applied for extracted AUCs for further analysis. The discriminatory abilities of both algorithms were directly compared by their logit (AUC)s. Further subgroup analysis by region (America vs non-America) was also conducted by comparing the corresponding logit (AUC).

Results

The pooled logit (AUC)s of 90-day SORG-CA was .82 (95% confidence interval [CI], .53-.11), 1-year SORG-CA was 1.11 (95% CI, .74-1.48), 90-day SORG-MLA was 1.36 (95% CI, 1.09-1.63), and 1-year SORG-MLA was 1.57 (95% CI, 1.17-1.98). All the algorithms performed better in United States than in Taiwan ( P < .001). The performance of SORG-CA was less influenced by a non-American cohort than SORG-MLA.

Conclusion

These observations might highlight the importance of incorporating region-specific variables into existing models to make them generalizable to racially or geographically distinct regions.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease as a Risk Factor for Complications and Revisions Following Lumbar Discectomy
Authors: Zhang Yi , Chi Jialun , Manley Brock , Oh Eunha , Yang Hanzhi , Wang Jesse , Li Xudong
Published: July 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives

Patients with IBD are at an increased risk for postoperative complications following surgery. The goal of this study is to investigate if inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a risk factor for complications following lumbar discectomy.

Methods

We identified IBD patients who underwent lumbar discectomy for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and matched to them with controls without IBD in a1:5 ratio. We excluded patients with a history of spinal injury, cancer, infection, trauma, or surgery to remove the digestive tract. We used multivariate logistic regression analyses to compare postoperative outcomes, including 90-day complications, 90-day emergency department visits, and 90-day readmissions. In addition, 2-year re-discectomy rates and a 3-year lumbar fusion rate were compared between the cohorts.

Results

After applying the study criteria, we identified 6134 IBD patients with LDH for further analysis. With the exception of dura tears, patients with IBD had significantly higher rates of medical complications, incision-related complications, ED visits, and readmission rates compared to patients without IBD, especially for the 2-year and 3-year rates of disc recurrence and revision surgery.

Conclusions

Patients with IBD who underwent lumbar discectomy are at a significantly higher rate of complications. Therefore, spine surgeons and other health care providers should be aware of this higher risk associated with IBD patients and properly treat the patients’ IBD before surgery to lower these risks.
At-Risk Tackling Techniques and Effectiveness in English Premiership Rugby
Authors: Moore Brady P. , Doucet Dakota , Dow Bobby , Vemu Sree M. , Hirase Takashi , Marco Rex A.W.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Head-down tackling has been associated with higher rates of head and neck injuries and less successful tackles compared with head-up tackling in American football. In rugby, head and neck injuries have been associated with tackling, with the tackler’s head positioned in front of the ball carrier.

Purpose:

To assess the success and risks of tackling techniques used in the English Rugby Premiership matches.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Three reviewers analyzed 1000 consecutive solo defensive tackling attempts during the 2022 to 2023 season in 6 English Rugby Premiership matches. Slow-motion replays were used to analyze the success of the tackling attempt in terms of head angulation (head up vs head down), head position relative to the offensive player’s waist at point of contact, and tackling method (inside shoulder, arm, head across the bow, and head-to-head). The chi-square test or Fisher exact test was used to analyze categorical data, and the 2-tailed Student t test or the Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze continuous data.

Results:

The mean interrater reliabilities for analyzing the tackles were good across all groups (κ = 0.715). Head-up and head-down tackling occurred in 848 tackle attempts (84.8%) and 152 tackle attempts (15.2%), respectively. Head-up tackles were successful in 80.7% of the tackle attempts compared with 71.1% of the head-down tackle attempts ( P = .0072). Tackles made at or above the waist were successful in 80.7% of the tackle attempts compared with 73.1% of tackles below the waist ( P = .0193). The inside-shoulder technique had the highest successful tackle rate at 90.8%, compared with 44.2% with the arm technique ( P < .0001) and 72.4% with the head-across-the-bow technique ( P < .0001). The inside-shoulder technique resulted in head-up tackling in 84.8% of players compared with 59.8% with the head-across-the-bow technique ( P < .0001) and 94.9% with arm tackling ( P = .0001). There were 4 recorded injuries to the tackler: 2 neck injuries, 1 shoulder injury, and 1 wrist/hand injury.

Conclusion:

Head-up tackling, tackles made at or above the level of the offensive player’s waist, and inside-shoulder tackling were found to be more efficient in producing successful tackles. The head-down, tackling below the waist, and head-across-the-bow techniques were associated with poor tackling and lower success rates.
Adverse Events Associated With 3 Vitrectomy Platforms Reported to the US FDA MAUDE Database
Authors: Hwang Hannah H. , Botsford Benjamin W. , Lenis Tamara L. , Sadiq Mohammad Ali , Mahrous Abdallah , Orlin Anton , Kiss Szilard , D’Amico Donald J. , Van Tassel Sarah H. , Kovacs Kyle D.
Published: July 2024

Purpose: To identify and describe adverse events (AEs) observed with real-world use of the following 3 vitrectomy platforms: Constellation (Alcon), Enhancing Visual Acuity (EVA, Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center), and Stellaris (Bausch + Lomb). Methods: All reports submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration’s Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database between January 2010 and November 2021 that were associated with the 3 vitrectomy platforms were analyzed. Each report was reviewed for AEs or consequences and the type of complication noted. Duplicates and reports with an inadequate narrative to categorize the event were excluded. A descriptive analysis was performed for the prevalence of device-specific issues within each platform. Results: The analysis included 2534 reports (1738 Constellation, 117 EVA, 679 Stellaris). Overall, the most commonly reported complications involved the vitrectomy probe (n = 957 [37.8%]) and the central processing unit (n = 368 [14.5%]). Differences in the distribution of AEs among the platforms were noted, with vitrectomy probe issues being the most reported events for the Constellation and Stellaris and infusion issues for the EVA. Infusion issues most frequently led to reports of patient harm with the Constellation (31/1738 [1.8%]) and EVA (7/116 [6.0%]), while issues with the vitrectomy probe were reported with the Stellaris (11/679 [1.6%]). Conclusions: An analysis of real-world data in the MAUDE database highlighted the spectrum of device-specific AEs of greatest relevance to surgical practice. Familiarity with potential device complications will help minimize harm to patients.
Koolen-de Vries Syndrome: a journey from diagnosis to treatments
Authors: Pfalzer Anna C. , Ivers Blake , Haynam Alayna , Drake Barbara , Koolen David A. , Kasri Nael Nadif , de Vries Bert B. A. , Mefford Heather C. , Morgan Angela , Bichell Terry Jo , Simon Elijah , Terala Ananya , Myers Kenneth A. , Point Ashley
Published: July 2024

The Koolen-de Vries Syndrome Foundation was founded in 2013 with the mission to educate, increase awareness, promote research and develop treatments for individuals living with Koolen-de Vries Syndrome (KdVS) and their families. With this aim, the foundation has focused on: developing scientific resources through patient cell and animal models, providing seed funding to basic and clinical researchers, establishing a natural history study of KdVS and increasing patient engagement. Projects have been prioritized across these areas of focus with an emphasis on expanding international research on KdVS, supporting translational research, establishing an international natural history study and conducting studies to assess patient priorities. With the incredible growth amongst our research and patient community in the last decade, our goal is to have our first clinical trial for KdVS in 2026.
Migration and postmemorial witnessing in contemporary African poetry
Authors: Adeoba ′Gbenga
Published: July 2024

The marginality of intra-African crossings in growing critical inquiries into African migration narratives informs this essay’s focus. Examining the poetry of Nigerian writers Peter Akinlabi and Bhion Achimba (formerly Chibuihe Obi Achimba) as creative texts that broaden understandings of migration forms within the continent, the essay suggests that the poets’ engagement with familial memories and the affective impact of displacement and forced migration cases open up opportunities to interrogate migratory trajectories in Africa. The essay builds on Rebecca Fasselt’s decolonial paradigm and Tosin Gbogi’s race-centred paradigm to urge a pluriversal outlook in which African migration studies seriously attends to colonial and postcolonial histories. The diversity of routes and experiences signalled by such an approach informs a reading of texts invested in postcolonial expulsions and war-induced displacement. Akinlabi’s and Achimba’s poems expand the literary archive on intra-African migration and demonstrate what contemporary African poetry texts, in their multi-layered modes, can contribute to debates in migration scholarship and African memory studies.
Effect of Ellipsoidal Particle Shape on Tribological Properties of Lubricants Containing Nanoparticles
Authors: Pan Ling , Li Zhi , Chen Yunhui , Lin Guobin
Published: July 2024

Adding nanoparticles can significantly improve the tribological properties of lubricants. However, there is a lack of understanding regarding the influence of nanoparticle shape on lubrication performance. In this work, the influence of diamond nanoparticles (DNPs) on the tribological properties of lubricants is investigated through friction experiments. Additionally, the friction characteristics of lubricants regarding ellipsoidal particle shape are investigated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results show that DNPs can drastically lower the lubricant's friction coefficient μ from 0.21 to 0.117. The shearing process reveals that as the aspect ratio (α) of the nanoparticles approaches 1.0, the friction performance improves, and wear on the wall diminishes. At the same time, the shape of the nanoparticles tends to be spherical. When 0.85 ≤ α ≤ 1.0, rolling is ellipsoidal particles' main form of motion, and the friction force changes according to a periodic sinusoidal law. In the range of 0.80 ≤ α < 0.85, ellipsoidal particles primarily exhibit sliding as the dominant movement mode. As α decreases within this range, the friction force progressively increases. The friction coefficient μ calculated through MD simulation is 0.128, which is consistent with the experimental data.
Mortality and morbidity associated with new onset acute kidney injury in critically ill COVID-19 infection patients
Authors: Fischer Nina , Miao Xinfei , Weck Danielle , Matalon Jacob , Neeki Cameron C. , Pennington Troy , Dong Fanglong , Arabian Sarkis , Neeki Michael M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The recent global pandemic due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 resulted in a high rate of multi-organ failure and mortality in a large patient population across the world. As such, a possible correlation between acute kidney injury (AKI) and increased mortality rate in these patients has been suggested in literature.

Methods

This is a two-year retrospective study of critically ill adult patients infected with COVID-19 that were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) on ventilatory support. Two groups of patients were identified in this study, those who were directly admitted to the ICU or those who were initially admitted to the Medical Floor and were later transferred to the ICU due to either worsening respiratory status or change in their hemodynamic conditions. Within each group, three subgroups were created based on the status of AKI, namely, those who did not develop AKI, those who developed AKI, and those who with previous history of dialysis dependent AKI.

Results

The AKI subgroup had the highest mortality rate in the ICU and Floor patients. Of note, those patients who were directly admitted to the Floor and were later transferred to the ICU for worsening conditions also experienced a higher mortality rate if they had developed AKI during their course of hospital stay.

Conclusions

This study identified a statistically significant higher mortality in patients who developed AKI than those who did not develop AKI among critically ill patients.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov registration number NCT05964088. Date of registration: July 24 2023.