bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Case Dismissal Outcomes in Prosecutor-Led Diversion Programs
Authors: Epperson Matthew W. , Sawh Leon , Patel Sadiq , Pettus Carrie , Grier Annie
Published: December 2022

Prosecutors’ offices are a critical site for criminal legal reform and decarceration efforts. Prosecutor-led diversion programs (PLDPs) are a prosecutorial innovation that process cases away from punitive prosecution and, instead, offer various services and supports. Successfully completing a PLDP results in the dismissal of the charge, which helps participants to avoid formal entry into the criminal legal system and a range of collateral consequences. This paper reports findings from over 11,000 participants in six PLDPs in three Midwestern jurisdictions, and examines race/ethnicity and charge characteristics associated with successful program completion and case dismissal. Findings indicate that PLDPs have the capacity to provide alternative processing to a large volume of defendants with high completion rates, although the likelihood of racial/ethnic minorities to successfully complete the program is mixed. PLDPs are discussed as a promising policy and programmatic innovation that can help to move away from an era of mass incarceration.
Challenging Civil Society Elites in Poland: The Dynamics and Strategies of Civil Society Actors
Authors: Korolczuk Elżbieta
Published: December 2022

The shrinking of civil society—a problematic trend in a growing number of countries—often involves enacting legal measures to curtail the activity of civil society organizations and vilifying and/or harassing such organizations. Poland has been at the forefront of this trend since 2015. This article examines the mechanisms promoting elite replacement in Polish civil society, with a specific focus on the ways in which civil society actors have responded to these changes and the effectiveness of the state’s efforts to establish new hierarchies of power. The article discusses the complex relation between research on civil society and elite theory, and examines the anti-elitist discourses concerning Polish civil society and the strategies employed by the state to gain more control over the third sector. Next, the analytical section focuses on the ways in which civil society actors respond to state-sponsored elite change and examines three types of relations between the state and NGOs in contemporary Poland: (1) resistance, (2) assimilation, and (3) opportunistic synergy. In closing, the article shows ways in which analyses of the transformation of civil society in Poland and other countries can be enriched by drawing on elite theory.
Investigation of heat input effects on the joint characteristics of CMT welded Aa6061 sheets
Authors: Selvamani ST , Bakkiyaraj M , Balasubramanian V , Ramesh A , Vijayakumar MD
Published: December 2022

Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) arc welding is an updated version of the GMAW process, in which heat input is significantly reduced due to the push-pull action of filler wire feeding during welding. The aluminium alloy sheets are welded by the CMT arc welding process using different heat input levels in this research work. The temperature distribution during welding is experimentally measured with the help of an infrared thermometer, and finite element analysis (volumetric heat source model) is used to predict the temperature distribution, and these results are equated. The influence of heat input on joint characteristics such as bead geometry, microhardness variation, microstructure analysis and tensile properties is also being investigated experimentally. The temperature study reveals that the results of numerical modelling for temperature distribution using various heat inputs were very close to the experimental condition, with a less significant difference ±5. In addition, the well-controlled heat input at 210 J/mm was attributed to eradicating porosity, which was confirmed by Non-destructive evaluation, macrostructure and microstructure analysis. As a result, the joint produced a better tensile strength of 241 MPa due to the achievement of fine grain refinement of 17 µm in the weld zone, reduced heat affect zone, and 6.45% volume fraction of Mg2Si particles. The intercept length of 18.937 microns is measured as the average value, and the misorientation angle of 25.2922 was also found as the average in the fusion zone, which is more significant when compared to the base metal value of 20 μm.
On the acoustic emission characteristics of airfoils with different trailing edge configurations
Authors: Jha Shailesh Kumar , Narayanan S.
Published: December 2022

The present study experimentally and numerically investigates the flow past flat plates and NACA0012 airfoils with the different trailing edge (i.e., blunt, sharp, and rounded) and both end-rounded configurations on the far-field acoustic emissions and complex flow phenomena to determine the best edge geometry for low noise. The studies are conducted for various jet speeds of 20, 30, and 40 m/s (chordwise Reynolds numbers of 1.812 × 105, 2.72 ×105, and 3.62 ×105). It is observed that all the edge-modified flat plates show the highest directivity at an emission angle of 60° for all jet velocities studied. The comparison of power directivities between realistic and flat plate airfoils reveals that the realistic airfoils radiate lower acoustic emissions as compared to flat plate airfoils, albeit they show a common feature of downstream directivity. In general, the far-field acoustic emissions of both end-rounded plates are observed to be lower as compared to blunt, sharp, and rounded trailing edge geometries. The leading edge modification is also observed to reduce airfoil self-noise. The likely reason for the lower far-field acoustic emissions provided by both end-rounded trailing edged foils is due to the modification in the boundary layer characteristics owing to the presence of smooth flow around the rounded leading edge as well as reduced vortex strength as compared to the other foil geometries. Thus, the present study demonstrates that passive modifications of leading edge profiles are essential along with trailing edge for achieving lower acoustic emissions and higher noise reductions.
Bilingual Language Experience and Its Effect on Conflict Adaptation in Reactive Inhibitory Control Tasks
Authors: Gullifer Jason W. , Pivneva Irina , Whitford Veronica , Sheikh Naveed A. , Titone Debra
Published: December 2022

We used machine-learning techniques to assess interactions between language and cognitive systems related to inhibitory control and conflict adaptation in reactive control tasks. We built theoretically driven candidate models of Simon and Number Stroop task data ( N = 777 adult bilinguals ages 18–43 years living in Montréal, Canada) that differed in whether bilingual experience interacted with inhibitory control, including two forms of conflict adaptation: shorter term sequential congruency effects and longer term trial order effects. Models with continuous aspects of bilingual experience provided signal in predicting new, unmodeled data. Specifically, mixed language usage predicted trial order adaptation to conflict. This effect was restricted to Number Stroop, which overtly involves linguistic or symbolic information and relatively higher language- and response-related uncertainty. These results suggest that bilingual experience adaptively tunes aspects of the control system and offers a novel integrative modeling approach that can be used to pursue other complex individual difference questions within the psychological sciences.
Active disturbance rejection formation control for multi-agent systems with multiple leaders
Authors: Wang Miao , Song Cunli , Shi Weiguo
Published: December 2022

An active disturbance rejection formation tracking problem is studied herein. Aiming at the time-varying formation tracking problem with external disturbance, a distributed control strategy of formation tracking based on extended state observer is presented. Considering the unknown state and external disturbance of single agent, a special extended state observer is produced which uses the output of neighbors. Subsequently, the extended state observer output–based formation protocol is designed to implement a predetermined formation. In addition, the necessary and sufficient condition of formation tracking control is obtained by taking full advantage of matrix transformation and Lyapunov theory. In the end, there are three simulation instances to verify the validity and feasibility of this method, which is mentioned in this article.
The population-wise error rate for clinical trials with overlapping populations
Authors: Brannath Werner , Hillner Charlie , Rohmeyer Kornelius
Published: December 2022

We introduce a new multiple type I error criterion for clinical trials with multiple, overlapping populations. Such trials are of interest in precision medicine where the goal is to develop treatments that are targeted to specific sub-populations defined by genetic and/or clinical biomarkers. The new criterion is based on the observation that not all type I errors are relevant to all patients in the overall population. If disjoint sub-populations are considered, no multiplicity adjustment appears necessary, since a claim in one sub-population does not affect patients in the other ones. For intersecting sub-populations we suggest to control the average multiple type I error rate, i.e. the probability that a randomly selected patient will be exposed to an inefficient treatment. We call this the population-wise error rate, exemplify it by a number of examples and illustrate how to control it with an adjustment of critical boundaries or adjusted [Formula: see text]-values. We furthermore define corresponding simultaneous confidence intervals. We finally illustrate the power gain achieved by passing from family-wise to population-wise error rate control with two simple examples and a recently suggested multiple-testing approach for umbrella trials.
Firm-Specific Determinants of Mechanisation: The Case of Coir Industry in Kerala
Authors: K. K. Raseena
Published: December 2022

This article is an attempt to measure the degree of mechanisation in the coir industry of Kerala for eliciting the firm-specific determinants of mechanisation. The study uses primary data collected from 115 coir manufacturers of Alappuzha district by using simple random sampling. It starts with measuring the degree of mechanisation of the selected coir firms in Kerala using two indices: extent of mechanisation (EM) and mechanisation index (MI). After that, the coir industry of Kerala is categorised into four levels of mechanisation, namely, traditional firms, low mechanised firms, medium mechanised firms and high mechanised firms using MI. The study found that, majority of the coir producing firms of Kerala belongs to traditional and low mechanised levels. The firm-specific determinants of the mechanisation are identified using a Tobit regression analysis and the results reveal that, firm size, participation in promotional programmes and the average education of the labour positively influences the MI whereas, the presence of labour union inversely affects it.
Pelvic incidence-guided reduction in transverse parts of U-shaped sacral fractures: Technical recommendations
Authors: He Li , Gong Song , Li Tianyu , Gu Meiqi , Xu Zhe , Chen Hua , Yi Chengla
Published: December 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study is to present a surgical technique that simultaneously reduces and fixates the transverse parts of U-shaped sacral fractures.

Methods

The sacral fracture was exposed through a posterior median approach. In a flexion injury, the rotation of the lower sacral segment is reduced by distraction along a pre-curved rod. Then, lordotic restoration is performed with a Weber clamp placed at the lower sacral segment through dragging. In an extension injury, longitudinal distraction is performed along the spinopelvic rod to reduce the vertical displacement. Next, the transverse displacement is reduced by a dissector placed between the upper and lower sacral segments through levering. The sagittal reduction on the lateral pelvic view was judged by PI. A regression analysis of Oswestry disability index (ODI) with Z-scores of PI, lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope (SS), and pelvic tilt (PT) was performed.

Results

At the 1-year follow-up, the average PI, LL, SS, and PT values were 51.6 (range: 43.1–76.0), 44.8 (34.6 – 60.1), 35.4 (18.1 – 48.0), and 16.7 (2.2–35.4) degrees, respectively. All patients were able to maintain an upright stance. The average ODI was 27.6% (2–72%). Surprisingly, the regression analysis demonstrated a significant linear relationship between ODI and LL ( R2 = 0.367, p = .048) but not between ODI and PI (R2 = 0.227, p = .138).

Conclusions

Using PI as guidance, the surgical procedures were helpful to reduce the PI of transverse sacral fractures into the normal range. However, the relationship between PI and the prognosis remains to be evaluated by future researches.
Use of Palliative Oxygen in Cancer Patients
Authors: Gosselin Caroline , Côté Mélanie , Tremblay Lise , Lacasse Yves
Published: December 2022

Background: Despite the lack of evidence to support the use of palliative oxygen to relieve dyspnea at the end of life, its prescription is widespread and often supported by local and national practice guidelines. Objectives: The objectives of this study were (1) to determine to what extent oxygen prescriptions meet the proposed prescription criteria in our institution, (2) to examine the indication of individual prescriptions in relation to the severity of dyspnea and (3) to review the utilization of opioids in patients receiving palliative oxygen. Methods: Retrospective chart review of cancer patients who were prescribed palliative oxygen between April 2015 and January 2020 through a respiratory home care program in Quebec City, Canada. According to provincial prescription guidelines, palliative oxygen was provided and reimbursed in case of severe hypoxemia (pulse oximetry saturation at rest < 88%) in cancer patients with an estimated prognosis of less than 3 months. Results: 134 patients receiving palliative oxygen were included; 25 (19%) did not fulfill reimbursement criteria. Median survival was 44 days. At initiation of palliative oxygen, 48 patients (36%) had only mild or moderate dyspnea (Medical Research Council dyspnea score 1-3), 26 (19%) did not receive opioids, and 9 (7%) were prescribed palliative oxygen without being dyspneic or receiving opioids. Conclusion: Most prescriptions of palliative oxygen met the proposed prescription criteria in our institution. Half of those who received palliative oxygen were only mildly dyspneic and/or were not receiving opioids at the time of the prescription.
Language Beyond Labeling: Toward a Language Ideologies Analysis of Anti-Violence Interventions
Authors: Kowalski Julia
Published: December 2022

As scholars explore anti-carceral approaches to gender violence, they question how to structure interactive practices to transform, rather than reproduce, dynamics of inequality and harm. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted with frontline workers in north India, this article argues that the concept of language ideologies can help analyze how interactive practices address gender violence. Language ideologies are shared representations of how interaction connects speaker, audience, and context. By tracking the language ideologies that inform anti-violence interventions, researchers can better analyze the extraordinarily complex semiotic labor required to address gender violence.
Pregnancy and post-partum in patients with myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease
Authors: Carra-Dallière Clarisse , Rollot Fabien , Deschamps Romain , Ciron Jonathan , Vukusic Sandra , Audoin Bertrand , Ruet Aurélie , Maillart Elisabeth , Papeix Caroline , Zephir Hélène , Laplaud David , Cohen Mikael , Bourre Bertrand , El-Bahi Illiasse , Labauge Pierre , Casey Romain , Ayrignac Xavier , Marignier Romain
Published: December 2022

Background and objective:

Myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) frequently initiates during childbearing years. This study investigated the impact of pregnancy and post-partum on MOGAD activity.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of clinical and demographic data from a multicenter French cohort of adult patients with MOGAD. All adult female patients who had a pregnancy after disease onset or in the year before disease onset were included. The annualized relapse rate was evaluated in patients who had a pregnancy after disease onset, to evaluate the impact of pregnancy and post-partum on MOGAD course.

Results:

Twenty-five informative pregnancies after disease onset were identified. No relapse was recorded during these pregnancies and only three relapses occurred during the first 3 months post-partum. The annualized relapse rate decreased from 0.67 (95% confidence interval: 0.40–1.10) during the pre-pregnancy period to 0 (95% confidence interval: 0–0.21) during pregnancy and to 0.22 (95% confidence interval: 0.09–0.53) during the first year post-partum. Among 144 female patients in their childbearing age recorded in the database, 18 (12.5%) reported their first symptoms during pregnancy or in the 12 months post-partum.

Discussion:

Our study suggests a marked reduction of MOGAD relapse rate during pregnancy and the post-partum period. Prospective studies on the role of pregnancy and delivery in MOGAD course are needed.
Frequency of NMOSD misdiagnosis in a cohort from Latin America: Impact and evaluation of different contributors
Authors: Carnero Contentti Edgar , López Pablo A , Criniti Juan , Alonso Ricardo , Silva Berenice , Luetic Geraldine , Correa-Díaz Edgar Patricio , Galleguillos Lorna , Navas Carlos , Soto de Castillo Ibis , Hamuy Fernando Diaz de Bedoya , Gracia Fernando , Tkachuk Verónica , Weinshenker Brian G , Rojas Juan Ignacio
Published: December 2022

Background:

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) misdiagnosis (i.e. the incorrect diagnosis of patients who truly have NMOSD) remains an issue in clinical practice. We determined the frequency and factors associated with NMOSD misdiagnosis in patients evaluated in a cohort from Latin America.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with NMOSD, according to the 2015 diagnostic criteria, from referral clinics in six Latin American countries (Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela). Diagnoses prior to NMOSD and ultimate diagnoses, demographic, clinical and paraclinical data, and treatment schemes were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 469 patients presented with an established diagnosis of NMOSD (73.2% seropositive) and after evaluation, we determined that 56 (12%) patients had been initially misdiagnosed with a disease other than NMOSD. The most frequent alternative diagnoses were multiple sclerosis (MS; 66.1%), clinically isolated syndrome (17.9%), and cerebrovascular disease (3.6%). NMOSD misdiagnosis was determined by MS/NMOSD specialists in 33.9% of cases. An atypical MS syndrome was found in 86% of misdiagnosed patients, 50% had NMOSD red flags in brain and/or spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and 71.5% were prescribed disease-modifying drugs.

Conclusions:

NMOSD misdiagnosis is relatively frequent in Latin America (12%). Misapplication and misinterpretation of clinical and neuroradiological findings are relevant factors associated with misdiagnosis.
My Data Choices: Pilot evaluation of patient-controlled medical record sharing technology
Authors: Karway George , Ivanova Julia , Kaing Tina , Todd Michael , Chern Darwyn , Murcko Anita , Syed Kazi , Garcia Mirtha , Franczak Michael , Whitfield Mary J , Grando Maria Adela
Published: December 2022

Patients desire greater control over sharing their digital health data. Consent2Share (C2S) is an open-source consent tool offered by SAMHSA and the VA to support granular data sharing (GDS) options that align with patient preferences and data privacy regulations. The need to validate this tool exists. We pilot tested C2S with 199 English and Spanish-speaking patients with behavioral health conditions (BHCs) and patient guardians. Data were analyzed using mixed methodology. All participants desired granular control over the sharing of their health data. Most participants (87%) were highly interested in using a tool that offered granular options for executing data sharing decisions, with over half (55%) indicated that being able to specify the data type, data recipient, and data use purpose made them more willing to share their medical records. Majority (83%) indicated that the supported data type sharing categories satisfied their data-sharing privacy preferences. Majority (87%) also reported that knowing the purpose of data use made them more comfortable in sharing. Some participants (28%) accessed the education materials provided on data type sharing options. Patients want granular choices when sharing medical records. C2S and its supported data type sharing categories are adequate to capture patients’ data sharing preferences. Further development is needed before deployment in clinical environments.
Using criminal histories to empower victim–survivors of domestic abuse
Authors: Hadjimatheou Katerina
Published: December 2022

The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) was first introduced in England and Wales in 2014 and has since been reproduced across the world. Its aim is to empower victim–survivors by giving them access to a partner’s criminal history and thereby helping them make informed decisions about their relationship. Yet the relationship between information and empowerment in this context remains contested and unexplored both theoretically and empirically. This paper draws on findings from the largest qualitative study of the DVDS to date as well as coercive control, to show that police are using disclosures to undermine perpetrators’ ‘monopolies on perception’ and in doing so aiming to empower victim–survivors to redefine their own realities. The implications for practice-oriented models of empowerment and evaluation methodologies are explored.
Government Eyewitness: Considering New Approaches to Political Coverage Through Local TV’s Greatest Strengths
Authors: Calfano Brian , Panagopoulos Costas , Raffa Elisa
Published: December 2022

In this monograph, we assess audience reactions to local TV news political coverage across an array of topics and research designs. First, we trace the development in local TV news of the now universally recognized reporter-driven emphasis: the local Eyewitness News model. That format’s role in establishing reporters as local elites is our basis for comparing how audiences respond to local reporters associated with the “eyewitness” brand versus reporters from national broadcast outlets. Using a combination of survey and field experiments, we investigate how audiences respond to eyewitness reporters. First, we vary audience exposure to partisan and policy frames sourced to these reporters. Across these experiments, audiences, and especially Republicans, respond more favorably to local than to national reporters and to the use of a policy than a partisan frame. Our second set of experiments test false balance and truth-telling in local TV stories about the 2020 presidential election. Again, the local reporter bests a national counterpart in terms of audience, especially Republican, reactions. In our third set of studies, we examine different combinations of human-interest content in the traditional thematic and episodic framing approaches in TV news for their effect on audiences’ climate change attitudes. We conclude by showing how these results inform an expansion of the topics and approaches local TV news affiliates should take to offer political coverage of value.
A Scoping Review of Programs to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse in Mainland China
Authors: Luan Hui , Wan Guowei , Sun Xijuan , Niu Jialu
Published: December 2022

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a worldwide public health concern. With the widespread dissemination of prevention approaches to end CSA, numerous CSA prevention programs exist in developed countries, but there is little evidence on how these programs are performing in Mainland China. The aim of this study was to review the existing research focusing on CSA prevention programs in Mainland China. Studies of CSA prevention programs were identified by conducting a comprehensive search of major academic databases for Chinese and English research. Articles were retained if they were original empirical studies that conducted programs to prevent CSA in Mainland China and measured related outcomes. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. A child-targeted, universally focused, and school-based educational program was the most common ( n = 7), followed by specifically focused programs that covered migrant and left-behind children using group-based intervention strategies ( n = 2) and ordinary parents with self-learning strategies ( n = 2); one study delivered agency-based face-to-face education to parents with disabled children. However, the shortcomings in research design limited its replication to the broader population. CSA prevention program research in Mainland China is in an early stage due to the limited target populations, lack of large-scale government-led initiatives, and low involvement of multicomponent collaboration. We provide suggestions for conducting future research involving more inclusive programs for other populations, comprehensive programs with multiple targets and stakeholders, large-scale evidence-based research, culturally tailored and contextual adaptation programs.
Modeling electrospun PLGA nanofibers’ diameter using response surface methodology and artificial neural networks
Authors: Abdelhady Saleh S , Atta MM , Megahed AA , Abu-Hasel KA , Alquraish Mohammed , Ali Ashraf A , Zoalfakar Said H
Published: December 2022

The present work is an attempt to model the diameter of Poly Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid (PLGA) nanofibers by utilizing response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANNs). Hence, determining the optimal electrospinning process conditions to produce a minimum fiber diameter. For modelling the average diameter of nanofibers, RSM approach based on four parameters (polymer concentration, high voltage and needle tip to collector distance and spinning angle) with five-level was compared to ANN technique. In the RSM approach, central composite design (CCD) was used to determine the individual and interaction impacts of the parameters on the average diameter of nanofibers. Several ANNs of single and double hidden layers with different number of cells for each were tried to obtain the best network structure. The experimental and predicted PLGA fiber diameters using an ANN showed a strong correlation, indicating that the network topology of 4-14-1 has good predictability for analyzing factors impacting PLGA fiber diameter. The average absolute relative error for predicting PLGA nanofibers’ diameter using ANN (2.24%) is slightly less than that obtained from RSM (2.59%). The high regression coefficient between the variables and the response (R2 = 0.9636) shows a good second-order polynomial regression model for evaluating experimental data. The R2 value was 0.945, indicating that the ANN model was good fitting with the experimental results. The optimum combinations (PLGA concentration of 26 wt.%, high voltage 22 kV, needle tip to collector distance 20 cm, and spinning angle 60o) were developed by RSM model for electrospinning PLGA nanofiber that can produce fine, consistent, and high-quality nanofibers.
Management and Outcome of Non-Aneurysmal Primary Aortic Infection
Authors: Kumins Norman H. , Wogsland Aric A. , Smith Justin , Patel Avkash , Cho Jae S. , Colvard Benjamin , Kashyap Vikram S.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Aortic infection without prior intervention or aneurysm is exceedingly rare. We report the presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcome of patients with this unusual entity.

Methods

Retrospective chart and imaging review of patients with primary aortic infection.

Results

5 patients (3 male, mean age 71.2 years) presented between 2014 and 2022. All had abdominal, back, or flank pain. Four had constitutional symptoms. All were evaluated with a complete blood count; 3 had leukocytosis. Both serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were elevated in the 4 patients evaluated with these tests. All were studied with peripheral blood culture on the first hospital day prior to any antibiotic administration. Blood culture was positive in only 1 patient. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed periaortic inflammation without aneurysm in all. Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) was obtained in 3 and a radiolabeled leukocyte single-photon emission CT (SPECT) scan was performed in 2. All demonstrated periaortic concentration of the radioisotope consistent with inflammation or infection. Intraoperative cultures were positive in 3. One patient who had a negative intraoperative culture was examined with broad range polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing which identified a causative bacterium. The other patient with a negative intraoperative culture had periaortic abscess but was on antibiotics preoperatively, potentially confounding the culture. All patients underwent in-situ repair with rifampin impregnated polyester (N = 2), cryopreserved aortic allograft (N = 2), or autogenous femoral vein (N = 1). No patient developed recurrent infection or aortic related complications following surgery with an average follow up of 31.8 months (range 8-88 months).

Conclusions

Patients with primary aortic infection present similarly with the triad of abdominal or back pain, laboratory markers of infection, and imaging demonstrating periaortic inflammation. Patients were treated successfully with in-situ repair. Preoperative identification of a causative organism was difficult, and PCR may be useful to help identify an organism.
Lifestyle Coaching May Be an Effective Treatment for Schizophrenia
Authors: Kanofsky Jacob Daniel , Viswanathan Shankar , Wylie-Rosett Judith
Published: December 2022

This commentary critiques the Danish CHANGE trial, which evaluated 3 levels of outpatient intervention intensity, in a group of outpatients with obesity and schizophrenia. Neither adding care coordination with weekly nurse contacts alone nor combining this treatment with assertive community lifestyle coaching as compared to treatment as usual improved outcomes, which included cardiovascular disease risk calculation, cardiorespiratory fitness, weight, and self-reported behaviors such as smoking, physical activity, and diet. The CHANGE trial investigators appear strongly averse to recommending the development and implementation of lifestyle medicine programs as a major component when treating outpatients with severe mental disorders. The potential dismissal of lifestyle medicine as a component of treatment for severe mental disorders is problematic. Valuable lessons can be learned from more thoroughly analyzing secondary outcomes such as medical and psychiatric hospitalization rates and total health care cost. The CHANGE trial data analysis needs to be expanded beyond the focus on changes in weight and serum cholesterol. Insulin resistance and high refined carbohydrate intake may be major factors in determining both the medical and psychiatric clinical course of schizophrenia. Assertive community lifestyle coaching is a novel treatment modality. Evidence strongly suggests assertive community lifestyle coaching substantially decreases both psychiatric and medical hospitalization rates.
Rate of periprocedural stroke in diagnostic cerebral angiograms comparing transradial versus transfemoral access
Authors: Kuhn Anna Luisa , Puri Ajit S , Rodrigues Katyucia de Macedo , Massari Francesco , Singh Jasmeet
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Transradial access for neurointerventional procedures has increased in popularity over the past few years due to data from extrapolated interventional cardiology studies, patient preference, and early reports of feasibility using this approach. Our aim was to evaluate the incidence of periprocedural stroke in patients undergoing transradial versus transfemoral access for diagnostic cerebral angiograms.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our neurointerventional database and identified all patients who underwent a diagnostic angiogram between May 2019 and July 2021. Patients were further divided into transradial versus transfemoral access. In patients with postprocedural stroke, symptoms and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score were recorded. Pertinent laboratory values and procedural data was reviewed, including COVID status, platelet count, International normalized ratio (INR), Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), vessels catheterized, amount of contrast used, and fluoroscopy time. Imaging work-up for stroke symptoms was reviewed, if available.

Results

Thousand two-hundred thirty eight diagnostic cerebral angiograms with 656 patients (53%) undergoing transradial access. Stroke symptoms after angiogram were only observed in the transradial group (5 patients; 0.4% total and 0.8% among radial access cases, respectively). Symptoms included word finding difficulty, paresthesia, or weakness. Three patients underwent cross-sectional imaging, computed tomography was negative in all three patients. Magnetic resonance imaging showed small, scattered infarcts in two patients. All symptoms resolved without additional hospitalization.

Conclusion

In our experience, using transradial access for diagnostic cerebral angiograms was associated with a low but not negligible incidence of periprocedural strokes. Patient anatomy should be evaluated prior to selection of vascular access. Patients should be made aware of a slightly higher periprocedural stroke risk with transradial access.
The role of non-stenosing carotid artery plaques in embolic stroke of undetermined source, is it a silent offender? A review of literature
Authors: Jumah Ammar , Aboul Nour Hassan , Fana Michael , Choudhury Omar , Eltous Lara , Zoghoul Sohaib , Jumah Fareed , Alsrouji Owais K , Alhajala Hisham , Intikhab Osama , Marin Horia , Chebl Alex , Miller Daniel
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Atherosclerotic cervical internal carotid artery disease is one of the major causes of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attacks. The risk of stroke from mild to moderate stenoses (i.e. <50% stenosis) might be underestimated. There is increasing evidence that plaque morphological features reflect plaque instability that may harbor high risk for embolization. In this narrative review, we will review the literature on plaque features that predict vulnerability beyond the degree of stenosis, discuss the clinical association with stroke, and evaluate the evidence that these lesions serve as a source for embolic stroke of unknown source (ESUS).

Methods

We performed a literature search using PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. The terms “embolic stroke of undetermined source” and “plaque morphology” were used either alone or in combination with “non-flow limiting stenosis,” “non-stenosing plaques,” “high-risk plaque features” or “internal carotid artery plaque.” Data on plaque morphology and ESUS were mainly taken from review articles, observational studies including retrospective cohort and cross-sectional studies, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews.

Conclusion

Nonstenosing carotid artery plaques with high-risk features carry a remarkable risk for stroke occurrence and randomized clinical trials are warranted for further evaluation of using carotid artery stenting or carotid endarterectomy to mitigate the risk of stroke.
Dancing with the devil: Intervention programs under criminal governance in Northern Central America
Authors: Rosen Jonathan D. , Cruz José Miguel
Published: December 2022

This article examines how violence intervention programs are implemented in places governed by street gangs. It is based on focus groups conducted in communities impacted by gangs and gang-related violence in the countries of Northern Central America. We develop a typology for understanding the different mechanisms for interacting with gangs. In places where gangs rule, it is not possible for non-governmental workers to avoid gangs. Instead, we argue that community workers implementing programs in gang neighborhoods are required to acknowledge the power and presence of gangs and readapt their strategies to carry on implementing the programs.
Does local infiltration analgesia in total joint arthroplasty offer any protection from prosthetic joint infections? An invitro experimental study
Authors: Tandra Varun , Koti Manjunath , Kohli Sandeep , Atta Mustafa , Khanal Prakash , Khan Osman
Published: December 2022

Many local anaesthetic agents are now reported to have anti-microbial properties in various studies, and this ability to inhibit microbial growth is not uniform. As local anaesthetics are commonly infiltrated into the surgical field for perioperative pain management, it is very important to know if this practice offers any protection against surgical site infections. Methods: In this study, three of the most common prosthetic joint infection-causing organisms, namely, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli, were chosen and tested against the commonly used local anaesthetics. The suspension of each organism was inoculated onto three different Mueller–Hinton agar plates and a drop of an undiluted solution of each local anaesthetic agent is inoculated onto one of the three culture plates; vancomycin and gentamicin discs were used as controls. Results: The local anaesthetic agents tested could not inhibit the growth of any of the microorganisms. As there was no inhibition of bacterial growth in the experiment with the above three agents, further experiment with a diluted mixture was not performed. Conclusions: It can be concluded that local infiltration of anaesthetic agents is less likely to provide any perioperative protection against prosthetic joint infections but may interfere with some diagnostic tests for microbiology.
Mnemonic land war: Memory constellations through Lebanon and South Africa
Authors: Meyer Miranda , Norgaard Stefan
Published: December 2022

Although Lebanon and South Africa are often treated as exceptional cases, the use of geographic analogies like ‘bantustans’ and ‘Lebanonization’ signals their relevance to many other places. These analogies point to the recognition of a spatial mode of mnemonic war in which struggles over the past are also struggles over land. Such analogies signal recognition but also require forgetting: as narrative chronotopes, they are limiting. To look beyond these limits, we name this shared condition ‘mnemonic land war’ and trace its workings through territorialization, property regimes and planning in South Africa and Lebanon. Understanding these processes as memory-work allows us to see what the places analogized to Lebanon and South Africa share in their mnemonic land wars, and link them into a transnational memory constellation. Understanding this constellation can guide a comparative understanding of mnemonic war ‘on the ground’.
Between discovery and exploitation of history: Lay theories of history and their connections to national identity and interest in history
Authors: Wójcik Adrian Dominik , Lewicka Maria
Published: December 2022

One of the distinctions in modern historiography is that between collective memory and history. Although ideal historical research is presented as objective and driven by the search for accuracy, collective memory is nearly always distorted by the current group’s needs. In the current study, we assess whether common people use this professional distinction and whether these two concepts are used by the general population. Our findings are based on several different lines of quantitative studies with a total sample size of 3949: two representative Polish samples, a study of the collective memory of Oświęcim inhabitants and one representative study of inhabitants of six Polish cities. The findings show that laypeople distinguish between three different forms of historical understanding, corresponding to the (1) realistic view of history (history as a search for truth), (2) instrumental view of history (history as a construction in the service of the group’s current needs) and (3) relativistic view of history (disbelief in the possibility of historical cognition). The meta-analysis of correlations revealed that instrumental lay theory was positively related to the nationalistic in-group identity that glorifies the in-group. By contrast, realistic theory was positively related to patriotism – a form of in-group attachment that is open to criticism. The realistic theory was positively related, whereas the instrumental view was negatively related to the expressed interest in history. Moreover, the instrumental view of history was positively related to the explicit denial of the value of historical heritage and a strong focus on the present.
The second-level smartphone divide: A typology of smartphone use based on frequency of use, skills, and types of activities
Authors: Wenz Alexander , Keusch Florian
Published: December 2022

Smartphones have become one of the most frequently used devices for accessing the Internet. Although a growing body of research has examined the second-level digital divide with a focus on general Internet and digital media use, little is known about patterns of smartphone use and smartphone-related skills in the general population. This paper examines inequalities in the use of smartphone technology based on two nationally representative samples of smartphone owners collected in Germany in 2017 and 2020. We identify six distinct types of smartphone users by conducting latent class analyses that classify individuals based on their frequency of smartphone use, self-rated smartphone skills, and activities carried out on their smartphone. Smartphone use differs significantly by sociodemographic characteristics and operating system. The types reflecting more frequent and diverse smartphone use are younger, have higher levels of educational attainment, and are more likely to use an iPhone. Overall, the composition of the latent classes and their characteristics are robust across samples.
The bridging program for social reinsertion. Early detection of people with serious mental illness who are prosecuted in Spain
Authors: Alvarez-Crespo R , Arroyo-Cobo JM , Negredo-Lopez L
Published: December 2022

A high prevalence of mental health problems is found in people sentenced to alternative non-custodial measures. This paper analyses the data obtained during a year of operation of the Extended Bridge Program of the Secretaria General de Instituciones Penitenciarias (SGIP) which aims to detect and care for people with serious mental illness, who could comply with a judicially imposed measure by participating in specific intervention programs, improving their health, their adherence to treatment and promoting their inclusion in the society, through psychosocial rehabilitation interventions.
The multisensory environmental evaluations of sound and odour in urban public open spaces
Authors: Ba Meihui , Li Zhongzhe , Kang Jian
Published: December 2022

Few studies have focused on the multisensory perception of audio–olfactory interaction with the purpose of improving the use of urban spaces. This study conducted multisensory environmental evaluations in three urban open spaces in China with the aim of verifying the existence of audio–olfactory interaction in the urban environments and providing different perspectives for the improvement of urban environmental quality. A sensewalk approach was adopted in the study, and the main research contents were: the odour’s effects on sound source and sound environment evaluations, and the sound’s effects on odour source and odour environment evaluations. The results indicated that food odour improved acoustic comfort and sound congruency and reduced subjective loudness. Pollution odour worsened the assessment of traffic and lowered subjective loudness. Sound decreased the subjective intensity of odour and exacerbated its evaluation. Additionally, food odour enhanced the sound environment assessment of pedestrian streets, while pollution odour worsened it. Sound had a weak impact on odour environment evaluations. The masking effect between sound and odour showed that the presence of the latter decreased subjective loudness while increased sound diminished the subjective intensity of odour. Furthermore, odour’s influence on sound evaluations was greater than the influence of sound on odour evaluations. These findings have implications for the planning and design of a livable and comfortable urban environment through the perspective of sensory interaction.
Sleep-Opt-In: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study to Improve Sleep and Glycemic Variability in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Martyn-Nemeth Pamela , Duffecy Jennifer , Quinn Laurie , Steffen Alana , Baron Kelly , Chapagai Swaty , Burke Larisa , Reutrakul Sirimon
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a technology-assisted behavioral sleep intervention (Sleep-Opt-In) and to examine the effects of Sleep-Opt-In on sleep duration and regularity, glucose indices, and patient-reported outcomes. Short sleep duration and irregular sleep schedules are associated with reduced glycemic control and greater glycemic variability.

Methods:

A randomized controlled parallel-arm pilot study was employed. Adults with type 1 diabetes (n = 14) were recruited from the Midwest and randomized 3:2 to the sleep-optimization (Sleep-Opt-In) or Healthy Living attention control group. Sleep-Opt-In was an 8-week, remotely delivered intervention consisting of digital lessons, sleep tracker, and weekly coaching phone calls by a trained sleep coach. Assessments of sleep (actigraphy), glucose (A1C, continuous glucose monitoring), and patient-reported outcomes (questionnaires for daytime sleepiness, fatigue, diabetes distress, and depressive mood) were completed at baseline and at completion of the intervention.

Results:

Sleep-Opt-In was feasible and acceptable. Those in Sleep-Opt-In with objectively confirmed short or irregular sleep demonstrated an improvement in sleep regularity (25 minutes), reduced glycemic variability (3.2%), and improved time in range (6.9%) compared to the Healthy Living attention control group. Patient-reported outcomes improved only for the Sleep-Opt-In group. Fatigue and depressive mood improved compared to the control.

Conclusions:

Sleep-Opt-In is feasible, acceptable, and promising for further evaluation as a means to improve sleep duration or regularity in the population of people with type 1 diabetes.