bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans of the Face
Authors: Pardo Daniel , Scarola Danielle , Weston Gillian K. , Falcone Todd E.
Published: April 2023

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a locally aggressive tumor with high rate of local recurrence but low metastatic potential. Its high-grade fibrosarcomatous variant and occurrence on the head and neck are rare findings associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The most significant prognostic feature of DFSP is obtaining tumor free surgical margins. As such, accurate recognition and proper management of this uncommon and locally aggressive malignancy is especially crucial in head and neck surgery.
Outcome for concomitant mitral regurgitation after surgery for aortic insufficiency
Authors: Xu Hao , Gu Ruiming , Liu Donghai , Qiao Chenhui , Zhang Xin
Published: April 2023

Background

Moderate/severe aortic regurgitation (AR) with concomitant mitral regurgitation (MR) is a common multiple valve disease for which treatment strategies are controversial. The current study explored long-term outcomes of concomitant MR after AR surgery and the effect of combined mitral valvuloplasty.

Methods

A total of 506 patients with moderate/severe AR and concomitant MR undergoing aortic valve surgery between January 2013 and December 2021 in our cardiac center were enrolled. Risk factors for early mortality, late mortality and persistent MR were identified by logistic regression and generalized linear mixed model.

Results

At least one follow-up record was available for 96.3% patients up to May 2022 and 264 (66.8%) patients had no or trivial MR, 112 (28.4%) had mild MR, 16 (4.1%) had moderate MR and 3 (0.8%) patients had severe MR. Persistent MR was recorded for 92 (23.3%) patients during follow-up. Combined mitral valvuloplasty (odds ratio: 0.23; 95% confidential interval: 0.08–0.64; p = 0.005) and better left ventricular reverse remodeling (odds ratio: 0.99; 95% confidential interval: 0.986–0.996); p < 0.001) were found likely to reduce the possibility of persistent MR during follow-up.

Conclusions

Most patients with moderate/severe AR and concomitant MR had a good long-term post-surgical outcome for MR. However, a few had persistent MR during follow-up. Combined mitral valvuloplasty and better left ventricular reverse remodeling reduced the possibility of long-term persistent MR.
Early Childhood Professionals’ Reported Use of Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Practices During Initial Evaluations: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Steed Elizabeth A. , Stein Rachel , Burke Heidi , Charlifue-Smith Renee
Published: April 2023

We utilized a mixed methods design to analyze responses to a U.S.-distributed survey regarding early childhood professionals’ ( N = 1,047) use of culturally and linguistically responsive practices during the initial evaluation for early intervention or early childhood special education. Findings from the fully mixed concurrent equal status mixed methods design showed that personnel used some culturally and linguistically responsive evaluation practices, such as using interpreters and asking families about language use and routines at home. Other culturally and linguistically responsive evaluation practices were used by fewer than half of survey respondents. Participants noted a lack of bicultural and bilingual staff, training, materials, and other supports for implementing culturally and linguistically responsive evaluations. We discuss the need for ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to early intervention and special education services for racially and linguistically marginalized young children.
Everyday Life vs Art: Effects of Framing on the Mode of Object Interpretation
Authors: Iosifyan Marina , Wolfe Judith
Published: April 2023

Everyday objects have often been used in contemporary art since Marcel Duchamp introduced the concept of the ready-made. However, it is not clear how everyday objects are perceived in art contexts in comparison to everyday contexts. We investigated how individuals interpret pairings of images of everyday objects as artworks and as objects in everyday life. In Study 1, we found that participants evaluated pairings of unrelated images of objects as fitting together more under the art condition compared to the everyday condition. In Study 2, using the thought-listing technique, we found that participants ascribed symbolic meanings to everyday objects more often under the art condition. In Study 3, we found that associating unrelated images of objects under the art condition primes cognitive access to symbolic meanings of visual scenes. Overall, the studies show that everyday objects are interpreted differently in an art context as compared to an everyday context.
Laboratory Approach for the Selection of Compatible Epoxy-Modified Asphalt Binders
Authors: Moraes Raquel , Anand Anurag , Yin Fan
Published: April 2023

Existing research studies have shown that the performance of asphalt binders can be improved significantly through modification with epoxy materials as thermosetting polymers. Thermosetting polymers are produced by blending two liquid components containing a resin and a curing agent that react chemically to form a strong three-dimensional structure. Because variations in the asphalt binder composition strongly affect an asphalt binder’s chemical reactivity, the compatibility of epoxy-modified asphalt (EMA) binders is influenced by the characteristics of base asphalt binder, epoxy resin, and curing agent, as well as the molecular interaction between these components. This study aimed to develop a practical yet effective laboratory approach to investigate the compatibility between two epoxy materials from different sources and four base asphalt binders with different chemical compositions. The experiment consisted of analyzing the SARA (saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes) fractions of the base asphalt binders, investigating the compatibility between the epoxy materials and the base asphalt binders by a modified storage stability test and Soxhlet asphalt extraction, and evaluating the morphology of EMA binders by fluorescence microscopy. Based on the research results, a laboratory protocol consisting of a modified storage stability test and Soxhlet asphalt extraction is suggested to discriminate the compatibility of EMA binders with an epoxy dosage rate of up to 25%.
Comparing the Travel Behavior of Older Users Between Station-Based and Dockless Bike Sharing Systems
Authors: Hua Mingzhuang , Chen Xuewu , Cheng Long , Chen Jingxu
Published: April 2023

As the population worldwide continues to age, providing improved mobility services for older people becomes increasingly crucial. In recent years, the maturation of bike sharing has led older people to progressively incorporate it into their everyday lives. In this study, station-based bike sharing (SBBS) and dockless bike sharing (DBS) are investigated in relation to older population mobility. This research relies on the fusion of multiple data sources, including SBBS and DBS trip records, point of interest (POI), and meteorological conditions in Nanjing, China. A zero-inflated negative binomial regression model is used to compare the travel behaviors among various age groups with the exposure variable. SBBS outperforms DBS in relation to age equity, while diverse travel behavior patterns are exhibited between the age groups. Although younger users are the majority of users, older users travel more frequently than younger users in bike sharing services. Also, older users are more likely to use shared bikes near the religious and health POIs, as well as in higher population density areas. This study provides beneficial insights into the transport equity and service improvement of bike sharing systems.
Perceptions of Stress Among Pedestrians in Fully Automated Vehicle Transportation Systems
Authors: Specktor Michelle , Parush Avi , Shiftan Yoram
Published: April 2023

Fully automated vehicle (FAV) technology is recognized to offer a variety of benefits, such as increased safety, a drop in emissions, and better quality of life for people with disabilities or without a driving license. Despite the benefits, it has not been widely adopted. Demographics and user personalities play a large role in technology adoption, but nonusers’ involvement is often overlooked. Considering the current attention on FAV technology and its users, pedestrians (who do not use it) are understudied. In future, FAVs may be deployed once they have been proven safe and accepted by the public. This study aimed to provide insights into how pedestrians’ emotional perceptions might influence their adoption of FAVs. Within-subject research was conducted using virtual reality-based videos to assess pedestrians’ perceptions of stress. Videos showed identical first-person-view walking scenarios of various spatial contexts and activities in urban transportation networks comprising all-human-driven vehicles (HDVs) and futuristic all-FAVs. The results indicated that pedestrians’ perceptions of stress differed significantly by vehicle type, spatial context, and activity. Further, they differed significantly by gender and whether walking was perceived as safe. Walking in all-FAV transportation systems was perceived as more stressful than walking in all-HDV systems. Women tended to report higher levels of stress. Crossing roads and shared pathways were also associated with higher levels of perceived stress. Research related to pedestrians’ emotional perceptions could have important implications for future policymaking and urban planning.
My first experience of group analysis
Authors: Beazley Anoushka
Published: April 2023

This article will explore and examine group analytic theory through the lens of one author’s felt experience as a participant in a professional experiential group. With the assumption being that our most useful psychotherapeutic tools are born from the therapist’s own introspection, the idea that our existential and individual fear of annihilation is intimately fused with our need to belong and connect, is explored. This article routes around in the murky unconscious of how the subject of racism is held in the body of the author and that of the group and how she as a psychotherapist navigates and works alongside what is unearthed. A semi-academic clinical vignette to position theory in a practical understanding and felt sense of a psychotherapist where the colour of her skin provokes the psychotherapeutic.
Adult Protective Services Perspectives on Responding to Elder Abuse and Serving Clients During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Elman Alyssa , Gottesman Elaine , Makaroun Lena K. , Chang E-Shien , Baek Daniel , Clark Sunday , Rosen Tony
Published: April 2023

The initial COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent public health measures dramatically impacted Adult Protective Services (APS), requiring rapid adjustments. Our goal was to describe challenges for APS and strategies developed to respond. We conducted six focus groups and seven interviews during March–April 2021 using a semi-structured topic guide, with 31 participants from APS leadership, supervisors, and caseworkers in New York City, a community hard hit by the initial COVID surge. Data from transcripts were analyzed to identify themes. Participants identified challenges faced by APS (e.g., clients less willing to engage with APS, inability to perform necessary job tasks remotely, and low staffing levels) as well as strategies APS used in response (e.g., increasing collaboration with other community-based programs and service providers, enabling remote court hearings through technology and in-person facilitation, and ensuring staff had access to personal protective equipment). These findings may inform APS planning for future large-scale societal disruptions.
Dynapenic Abdominal Obesity, Single and Recurrent Falls in Older Brazilian Adults: Elsi-Brazil Results
Authors: Coelho de Amorim Juleimar Soares , Perracini Monica Rodrigues , Alexandre Tiago da Silva , Máximo Roberta de Oliveira , Nascimento-Souza Mary Anne
Published: April 2023

Objective: Cross-sectional study to verify the association between dynapenic abdominal obesity and the occurrence of single and recurrent falls among Brazilian adults aged 50 years and over. Methods: Baseline data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), comprising 8374 individuals aged 50 years and over, were analyzed. Participants were categorized according to the report of falls, dynapenic abdominal obesity was determined by combining the presence of abdominal obesity (waist circumference) and dynapenia (handgrip strength). A multinomial regression adjusted for multiple variables was conducted. Results: The prevalence of a fall was 10.4% (95% CI: 9.7–11.2) and 10.8% for single and recurrent (95% CI: 9.9–11.9). Dynapenic abdominal obesity was associated with a single fall (OR: 1.3; 95% CI 1.1–1.7) and showed greater strength of association with recurrent falls (OR: 2.8; 95% CI 2.1–3.8). Conclusions: Our data showed that the coexistence of abdominal obesity and dynapenia in older adults creates additional challenges for aging.
Mental recovery, citizenship roles, and the Mental After-Care Association, 1879–1928
Authors: Blythe Hannah
Published: April 2023

This article argues for the importance of studying life after mental illness. A significant proportion of people who experience mental illness recover, but the experience continues to affect their lives. Historical examination of the birth of mental after-care through the Mental After-Care Association (MACA) highlights the challenges faced by those who were discharged recovered from English and Welsh lunatic asylums between 1879 and 1928. This research demonstrates the relationship between ideas regarding psychiatric recovery and citizenship. Throughout the period, certification of insanity for institutional treatment stripped patients of the status and rights of citizenship. Discharge on account of recovery restored a patient's legal access to citizenship, yet suspicions about their right and ability to particate in society lingered. The MACA designed after-care to facilitate restoration to full citizenship. The MACA was a product of the active citizenship movement, according to which, one's right to identify as a citizen depended on the performance of certain duties to the community. These duties varied according to socio-economic position and sex, meaning that each individual was prescribed a gendered personal citizenship role. MACA personnel saw their endeavours as part of their own citizenship roles, and designed their treatments accordingly. The MACA used a patient's assumption of a citizenship role to indicate recovery, and believed that supporting the performance of that role had mentally healing effects for patients who had been discharged recovered. MACA workers thus imbued the psychiatric innovation of after-care with the liberal political and social values of active citizenship.
Association of gender-based violence with sexual and drug-related HIV risk among female sex workers who use drugs in Kazakhstan
Authors: Mukherjee Trena I , Terlikbayeva Assel , McCrimmon Tara , Primbetova Sholpan , Mergenova Guakhar , Benjamin Shoshana , Witte Susan , El-Bassel Nabila
Published: April 2023

Background

Little is known about the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) or client violence, and associated HIV risk among women who engage in sex work (WESW) and use drugs in Kazakhstan, despite a growing HIV epidemic.

Methods

Women who reported engaging in sex work and using illicit drugs were recruited from Almaty and Temirtau, Kazakhstan between 2015 and 2017. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted to determine prevalence and correlates of physical and sexual violence perpetrated by intimate partners and clients. Associations between each type of violence with sexual and drug-related HIV risk behaviors were assessed with negative-binomial and logistic regression models, respectively.

Results

Of the 400 women, 45% and 28% reported recent IPV and client violence, respectively. IPV and client violence was associated with a greater number of sex work clients [IPV: adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR)physical: 1.86, 1.28–2.71; aIRRsexual: 2.28, 1.56–3.35]; [client violence: aIRRphysical: 2.20, 1.44–3.42; aIRRsexual: 2.54, 1.72–3.83], and client violence was associated with greater frequency of condomless sex with clients [aIRRphysical: 2.33, 1.41–4.03; aIRRsexual: 2.16, 1.35–3.56]. Violence was not associated with injection drug use, despite exchanging sex for drugs being associated with higher odds of violence.

Conclusion

HIV prevention programs for WESW in Kazakhstan should consider multi-sectoral approaches that address economic hardship and relationship-based components, in addition to violence reduction.
Experimental and Numerical Optimization Study on an Airfoil-Shaped Heat Exchanger
Authors: Yang Xuesen , Zhao Wei , Cheng Xianda , Dong Wei , Luo Weiwei , Zhao Qingjun
Published: April 2023

Heat exchanger design is a laborious and time-consuming task that often relies on a trial-and-error process. In light of this, our study proposes a design method for optimizing airfoil-shaped heat exchangers using the improved stochastic ranking evolutionary strategy (ISRES) algorithm. The ISRES algorithm provides significant advantages in identifying the global optimum, surpassing genetic algorithms (GAs). In the present study, the thermal model of the heat exchanger protype was validated using experimental techniques. Additionally, the ISRES algorithm was employed for the optimization of a plate-fin heat exchanger with airfoil-shaped fins by minimizing the total heat transfer area and pressure drops, while considering the main geometrical parameters of the exchanger as the design variables. The corresponding computer code was developed, and two case studies were conducted. In case study 1, the total heat transfer area was saved up to 25.7%, while in case study 2, the objective function value reached its minimum value of 0.0738. The numerical results demonstrate that the ISRES algorithm can be successfully applied in optimizing heat exchangers. Finally, a parametric analysis was conducted to evaluate the sensitivity of the proposed method to the heat transfer area.
A model-based approach for historical borrowing, with an application to neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Brizzi Francesco , Steiert Bernhard , Pang Herbert , Diack Cheikh , Lomax Mark , Peck Robbie , Morgan Zoe , Soubret Antoine
Published: April 2023

Bayesian historical borrowing has recently attracted growing interest due to the increasing availability of historical control data, as well as improved computational methodology and software. In this article, we argue that the statistical models used for borrowing may be suboptimal when they do not adjust for differing factors across historical studies such as covariates, dosing regimen, etc. We propose an alternative approach to address these shortcomings. We start by constructing a historical model based on subject-level historical data to accurately characterize the control treatment by adjusting for known between trials differences. This model is subsequently used to predict the control arm response in the current trial, enabling the derivation of a model-informed prior for the treatment effect parameter of another (potentially simpler) model used to analyze the trial efficacy (i.e. the trial model). Our approach is applied to neovascular age-related macular degeneration trials, employing a cross-sectional regression trial model, and a longitudinal non-linear mixed-effects drug–disease–trial historical model. The latter model characterizes the relationship between clinical response, drug exposure and baseline covariates so that the derived model-informed prior seamlessly adapts to the trial population and can be extrapolated to a different dosing regimen. This approach can yield a more accurate prior for borrowing, thus optimizing gains in efficiency (e.g. increasing power or reducing the sample size) in future trials.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in Community-Based Services: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies
Authors: Franklin Cynthia , Ding Xiao , Kim Johnny , Zhang Anao , Hai Audrey Hang , Jones Kristian , Nachbaur Melissa , O’Connor Ashley
Published: April 2023

Purpose: Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is practiced by social workers in clinical, community-based services, but no reviews of the outcome research have been completed. Methods: A meta-analysis of randomized studies. Outcome domains included depression, anxiety, behavioral health, health and wellbeing, family functioning, and psychosocial adjustment. Results: Twenty-eight studies with 340 effect sizes were analyzed in meta-regression with robust variation estimation (RVE). Overall, statistically significant and medium treatment effect sizes were found across outcome domains, g = 0.654, 95% CI : 0.386–0.922, p < 0.001. Interventions with 4 or more SFBT techniques across three categories (cooperative language, co-construction, and developing a therapeutic relationship; strengths and resources; and future-focused questions) showed a moderate treatment effect. Implications: SFBT is an effective intervention for depression, behavioral health, family functioning, and psychosocial outcomes when delivered in community-based services.
Sexual Identities and the Role of Marriage in Social Movement Activism
Authors: Swank Eric
Published: April 2023

Though marriage is seemingly attached to the private sphere and politics to the public sphere, marriage and politics operate as intertwined institutions. Political parties routinely pitch themselves as “the protector of family values” and getting married can shift a person’s political commitments. Studies generally agree that married people in different-sex marriages are more conservative than single or divorced individuals, but there is uncertainty as to whether same-sex marriages have the same political ramifications. This study examined data from the 2010–2102 American National Election Survey and found that sexual identity sometimes modifies the conservative elements of marriage (n = 3815). Same-sex marriages inspired greater participation in antiracist, queer, and feminist social movements while different-sex marriage showed an inverse relationship. Implications for how these findings require a rethinking of the marriage and politics are addressed as well.
Low MHR Is Associated with Hemorrhagic Transformation in Acute Large Artery Atherosclerosis Ischemic Stroke Patients with Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Meng Delong , Li Yan , Ju Ting , Huo Wei , Wang Mingfei
Published: April 2023

Background: Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is a common complication of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and may lead to neurological deterioration. This article discusses whether monocyte count to high-density lipoprotein ratio (MHR) level is associated with HT in AIS patients. Materials and methods: The clinical data of AIS patients who underwent rt-PA IVT treatment were continuously collected. According to whether HT occurred, patients were divided into HT group and non-HT group. Potential association between MHR and HT in different subtypes AIS was explored by using logistic regression. Results: A total of 444 AIS patients were retrospective analyzed. The MHR level was lower in HT group compared with the non-HT group in all AIS patients (0.28 vs 0.36, P = .031) and in large-artery atherosclerosis (LAA) type AIS patients (0.31 vs 0.37, P = .032). Low MHR was independently related to HT (OR:0.035, 95%CI:0.003−0.390, P = .006). Among all TOAST subtypes, low MHR was only independently associated with HT in patients of LAA-type AIS after adjusting for confounding factors (OR:0.01, 95%CI:0.00−0.62, P = .031), with an optimal cut-off value of 0.41, sensitivity of 85.7%, and specificity of 43.1%. MHR was not correlated with SVO, VE, and CE subtype AIS. Conclusion: Low MHR may be an independent predictor of HT in patients with AIS and this conclusion only existed in LAA-type AIS.
Robust H∞ output consensus of heterogeneous nonlinear multi-agent systems with external disturbance and unknown time-delay based on distributed Lyapunov-based MPC
Authors: Rahimi Nahid , Binazadeh Tahereh
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates a Lyapunov-based Model Predictive Control (LMPC) for solving the output consensus problem of nonlinear heterogeneous Multi-Agent Systems (MASs) subject to external disturbances and unknown time delay. Considering an appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii Functional (LKF), the optimization problem of the cost function is stated based on the given LKF which is effective in reducing the computational load. Additionally, sufficient conditions are derived to achieve the output consensus based on the [Formula: see text] performance index by solving the Linear Matrix Inequalities. To eliminate the effects of the unknown time delay in the MASs, the distributed controllers include both state feedback and time-delay state feedback terms. At last, numerical and practical examples are provided to show the applicability and effective performance of the proposed method.
Optimization of sound-absorbing and insulating structures with 3D printed recycled plastic and tyre rubber using the TOPSIS approach
Authors: Astrauskas Tomas , Grubliauskas Raimondas , Januševičius Tomas
Published: April 2023

Studies on recycled materials emerged during recent years. This paper investigates the properties of sound absorption and transmission loss of the structures of the perforated plastic panel (PPP) backed with the rubber granule panel (RGP). Under production conditions, such a structure could be produced using only waste. The normal incidence sound absorption and transmission loss of the structure was measured using ISO 10534-2 and ASTM E2611-17 standard methods, respectively. In this study, the plastic panel perforation holes were tilted in steps of 15°–45° compared to the vertical axis of the sample. Different thickness rubber panels were used as backing (12 mm, 22 mm and 27 mm). The results showed that the sound absorption and transmission loss increased with the angle of the perforation pore. To compare the different structures, the multi-criteria analysis using the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach was done. The RGP thickness, sound absorption coefficient (SAC) and sound transmission loss (STL) were weighted as a criterion. The results of the multi-criteria analysis showed that the optimal structure for a possible application is PPP45°+ RGP 22 mm, which was ranked highest of all alternatives. The first peak of SAC reached 0.97 at 1000 Hz. In the frequency range of 250–1000 Hz, STL values reached up to 10.4 dB and in the frequency range of 1–4 kHz – 20.1 dB. The results obtained using RGP and PPP show promising development potential for sound absorption and insulation applications.
Clinicopathological and Molecular Characteristics of Intraosseous Rhabdomyosarcoma Involving Head and Neck Region: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sivakumar N. , Sharma Pooja , Chandra Shaleen , Gupta Shalini , Samadi Fahad M. , Baghel Shilpi
Published: April 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma with TFCP2 rearrangement is a newly introduced spindle cell neoplasm showing predilection for craniofacial bones exhibiting highly aggressive nature and poor prognosis. Therefore, an attempt was made to delineate the entity for improved understanding and treatment outcomes through comprehensive analysis of the clinicopathological and molecular characteristics. An electronic search was carried out using MEDLINE by PubMed, Scopus, Google scholar, Cochrane library, and EMBASE databases. Original articles and case reports involving intraosseous rhabdomyosarcoma arising in head and neck region with TFCP2 fusion were included. Data were compiled and risk of bias was analyzed using JBI tool. Thirteen eligible articles were included for the quantitative analysis, which revealed 33 cases with TFCP2 fusion. Majority of the affected individuals were females (58%) with mandible being the common site. Most of the patients died within few months after diagnosis demonstrating a low mean survival rate (30 months). Odds ratio, overall survival and disease-free survival were calculated and analyzed statistically concluding that intraosseous rhabdomyosarcomas harboring TFCP2 fusion are found to be novel and dreadful neoplasms. The predilection for young age with poor prognosis exhibited by these lesions demand early diagnosis and specific treatment planning to curtail mortality.
Fatal Bowel Obstruction Due to Paraduodenal Hernia: A Case Report
Authors: AlSafadi Rawan , Smyk Daniel
Published: April 2023

A paraduodenal hernia is a rare type of hernia, however it is the most common type of internal hernias. It can develop after surgery, trauma, or be congenital. Paraduodenal hernias are rare in children. Clinical presentation is nonspecific. Patients range from being asymptomatic to presenting with clinical symptoms associated with small bowel obstructions. Diagnostic tools such as X-ray, plain abdominal radiography, and computed tomography may be used to diagnose paraduodenal hernias. Described is the case of a 5-year-old female who died suddenly of a bowel obstruction due to a paraduodenal hernia found at postmortem examination. In the hours prior to death, she reported stomach pain, vomiting, and later developed a fever. Postmortem CT study showed free fluid in the abdomen and bowel distention. Internal examination showed an obstructed bowel with ischemic sections extending from the distal portions of the small bowel up to the proximal portions of the transverse colon. The ischemic portions were entrapped within a clear membranous sac within the abdominal cavity. The sac was concluded to be a paraduodenal hernia. Paraduodenal hernias are rare and difficult to diagnose but they must be considered in the diagnostic process, as without surgical intervention the mortality rate can be high.
Focal Nodular Hyperplasia in the Pediatric Population: A Multicenter Experience
Authors: González Iván A. , Wang Donghai , Pacheco Maria Cristina , Zhang Xuchen , Russo Pierre
Published: April 2023

Background:

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is a benign liver lesion classically presenting in young females. In children, FNH is rare and its detailed clinicopathologic characteristics remain largely unknown. Furthermore, there are no studies comparing pediatric FNH features to those presenting in adults.

Methods:

In this study, we analyzed a total of 47 FNH cases in pediatric patients (age range: 23 days to 18 years) from 3 centers and compared them to a cohort of 31 FNH cases in adult patients (age range: 20–64 years).

Results:

Of the pediatric cases, 13 cases (28%) had a history of a prior malignancy of which 4 were treated with chemoradiation and stem cell transplantation (SCT), 5 with chemoradiation alone and 3 with chemotherapy and SCT. In the pediatric cases 41 (87%) had a central scar and 46 (98%) had fibrous septa. Both pediatric and adult FNH were more common in female patients. Cases in pediatric patients were also significantly associated with larger size ( P = .047), absence of dystrophic vessels ( P = .001), absence of sinusoidal dilatation ( P = .029), pseudoacini formation ( P = .013), and steatosis ( P = .029).

Conclusion:

In our experience although most cases of pediatric FNH show the classic histologic features seen in adults, some significant differences exist, and awareness of these findings could aid in the evaluation of these rare cases.
Impact response of a sandwich with a foam aluminum core enhanced by a ceramic tile: An experimental study
Authors: Ren Jianwei , Sun Minqian , Zhou Yilai , Wang Tao , Zhao Zhenyu
Published: April 2023

This research proposes using a hybrid core consisting of foam metal and a ceramic tile to enhance the impact resistance of the sandwich construction. We assess the impact response of such an enhanced sandwich under a low-velocity drop-hammer load. Two thicknesses and three positions of the ceramic tile were considered. The low-velocity impact experiment was performed with a 16 mm hemispherical hammerhead and an impact energy range of 30–70 J. The results indicate that the ceramic tile significantly increases the impact resistance of the sandwich. A sandwich with a ceramic tile in the middle of the aluminum foam core had the highest peak force, perforation resistance, and energy absorption. Moreover, the performance was better for the thicker ceramic tiles, and the different damage patterns of the post-mortem sandwiches were analyzed. The underlying mechanisms of enhanced performance are discussed schematically in detail for the sandwiches. These results indeed showed that this proposed sandwich construction could be considered as a potential candidate in high-performance protective component.
Choroidal thickness measurements of subjects with pseudoexfoliative syndrome and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma: A contralateral eye study
Authors: Un Yasemin , Sonmez Murat
Published: April 2023

Aim

In this study, we aimed to investigate the peripapillary choroidal thickness (PPCT) and macular choroidal thickness (MCT) in pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome and compare the data of the contralateral eyes according to the presence of biomicroscopic eye involvement and glaucoma.

Method

In this cross-sectional case-control study, PPCT and MCT measurements were analyzed in 162 eyes of 81 subjects with PEX syndrome, diagnosed biomicroscopically with the detection of PEX material. The sample included 63 eyes with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PG), 49 eyes with visible PEX material alone without glaucoma (PM), 50 fellow eyes without biomicroscopically visible PEX material (F), and 48 eyes of 24 healthy individuals (controls) without any sign of PEX in the detailed ophthalmologic examination. The PEX syndrome group consisted of 25 PM-F, 25 PG-F, 19 PG-PG, and 12 PM-PM eye pairs. The PPCT and MCT values were compared between the eye-pairs of the subjects with the PEX syndrome.

Results

The mean PPCT measurements were 183.3 ± 8.1 µm, 158.5 ± 5.4 µm, 167.8 ± 5.9 µm, and 149.9 ± 5.5 µm for the eyes in the control, F, PM, and PG groups, respectively. The eyes in the PG group had statistically significantly lower measurements than those in the control group (p < 0.01). In the contralateral eye comparison of the subjects with PEX syndrome, no significant difference was found in relation to the mean PPCT and MCT measurements between the PM-F, PG-F, and PG-PG eye pairs (p > 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

Although the eye groups with PEX syndrome had lower mean PPCT measurements than the controls, the contralateral eye analysis of the asymmetrically involved eye pairs showed no significant differences.
Novel Biomarker Prediction for Lung Cancer Using Random Forest Classifiers
Authors: C Lavanya , S Pooja , Kashyap Abhay H , Rahaman Abdur , Niranjan Swarna , Niranjan Vidya
Published: April 2023

Lung cancer is considered the most common and the deadliest cancer type. Lung cancer could be mainly of 2 types: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is affected by about 85% while small cell lung cancer is only about 14%. Over the last decade, functional genomics has arisen as a revolutionary tool for studying genetics and uncovering changes in gene expression. RNA-Seq has been applied to investigate the rare and novel transcripts that aid in discovering genetic changes that occur in tumours due to different lung cancers. Although RNA-Seq helps to understand and characterise the gene expression involved in lung cancer diagnostics, discovering the biomarkers remains a challenge. Usage of classification models helps uncover and classify the biomarkers based on gene expression levels over the different lung cancers. The current research concentrates on computing transcript statistics from gene transcript files with a normalised fold change of genes and identifying quantifiable differences in gene expression levels between the reference genome and lung cancer samples. The collected data is analysed, and machine learning models were developed to classify genes as causing NSCLC, causing SCLC, causing both or neither. An exploratory data analysis was performed to identify the probability distribution and principal features. Due to the limited number of features available, all of them were used in predicting the class. To address the imbalance in the dataset, an under-sampling algorithm Near Miss was carried out on the dataset. For classification, the research primarily focused on 4 supervised machine learning algorithms: Logistic Regression, KNN classifier, SVM classifier and Random Forest classifier and additionally, 2 ensemble algorithms were considered: XGboost and AdaBoost. Out of these, based on the weighted metrics considered, the Random Forest classifier showing 87% accuracy was considered to be the best performing algorithm and thus was used to predict the biomarkers causing NSCLC and SCLC. The imbalance and limited features in the dataset restrict any further improvement in the model’s accuracy or precision. In our present study using the gene expression values (LogFC, P Value) as the feature sets in the Random Forest Classifier BRAF, KRAS, NRAS, EGFR is predicted to be the possible biomarkers causing NSCLC and ATF6, ATF3, PGDFA, PGDFD, PGDFC and PIP5K1C is predicted to be the possible biomarkers causing SCLC from the transcriptome analysis. It gave a precision of 91.3% and 91% recall after fine tuning. Some of the common biomarkers predicted for NSCLC and SCLC were CDK4, CDK6, BAK1, CDKN1A, DDB2.
Brodalumab for Plaque Psoriasis: A Canadian Real-World Experience at 2-Years Post-Launch
Authors: Gaudet Véronique , Yap Belinda , Hassan Shazia , Barbeau Martin
Published: April 2023

Background

There is limited real-life evidence with brodalumab in patients with plaque psoriasis in Canada.

Objectives

To examine real-world effectiveness of brodalumab in Canadian routine care with a focus on clinician and patient-reported outcomes, as well as measuring continuation rates and persistency.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was conducted on data collected through the brodalumab patient support program (PSP) in Canada for patients initiating brodalumab between June 2018 (PSP launch)- June 2020 with a minimum of 16 weeks follow-up from first dose. Effectiveness was assessed by improvements in PASI, BSA and DLQI; continuation rates and persistency on therapy were reported.

Results

Overall, 864 patients (male, 59%; median age, 52 years) were included in the analysis. In a subset of patients with both baseline and follow-up scores, statistically significant improvements were observed: PASI improved from 13.9 to 1.8, BSA improved from 16.6% to 2.5% and DLQI improved from 16.2 to 2.9. Brodalumab demonstrated high continuation rates (89.9%), with similar rates in biologic-naïve and biologic-experienced patients (92.1% and 88.6%, respectively) and in patients who received secukinumab or ixekizumab as their most recent biologic therapy (89.0% and 86.2%, respectively). Persistence at 6, 12, and 18 months was 82.0%, 69.9%, and 63.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of brodalumab was demonstrated in this Canadian routine care study, with significant improvements in disease severity and patient-reported outcomes. High continuation rates were achieved; including in patients previously treated with IL-17A inhibitors. Future studies will provide further evidence of brodalumab’s benefits for the management of plaque psoriasis in the real-world setting.
Hypnogenesis, Chronic Pain and Peircean Habit: Implications for Clinical Endeavors
Authors: Gonçalves Hugo Nogueira
Published: April 2023

This study’s objective is to discuss hypnogenesis parting from one of Erickson’s chronic pain cases, analyzing hypnogenesis involvement in iatrogenesis and in the therapeutic interventions. Hypnogenesis is a concept for how clinical relationships tend to reproduce the ideas and theories of the therapist in the subject’s subjectivity. In hypnotherapy, hypnogenesis is implicated in the relational nature of the hypnotic experience, addressing the difficulty in separation between fabricated and revealed realities. A case of trigeminal neuralgia is analyzed and discussed to illustrate the implications of hypnogenesis in iatrogenesis and its therapeutic potential for chronic patients. The study draws a theoretical possibility on how hypnogenesis highlights iatrogenesis by the neglect of the subject’s needs in clinical consultations. Then, the study demonstrates how Erickson uses hypnogenesis in the patient’s therapy, favoring her well-being. To approach hypnogenic communicational processes, Charles Peirce’s concept of habit and is utilized as a complex system of subjective processes.
Share or Not Share Knowledge: Posters Versus Lurkers in Organisational Online Knowledge Sharing and Internal Marketing
Authors: Nguyen Mai , Fry Marie-Louise , Arli Denni
Published: April 2023

Employees should be treated as internal customers to motivate and engage in online knowledge sharing, which is the backbone of organisational competitiveness. Online knowledge sharing helps organisations survive fierce competition for the capability of facilitating the transfer of individual knowledge to organisational capital and decreasing redundant learning time. However, the majority of online participants, known as lurkers, just read the knowledge shared without contributing themselves. Based on Social Exchange Theory, this study focused on the determinants of lurkers and posters, especially in the organisational context. This study collected 792 responses from employees in Vietnamese organisations. Results show that knowledge self-efficacy and perceived ease of use are two strong determinants of knowledge sharing reciprocity and job performance. Additionally, knowledge sharing reciprocity is the critical determinant of posters’ and lurkers’ job performance. Knowledge sharing reciprocity mediates the impact of knowledge self-efficacy, perceived ease of use and organisational rewards on job performance for both poster and lurker groups.
The psychological influence of dating app matches: The more matches the merrier?
Authors: Thomas Marina F , Binder Alice , Matthes Jörg
Published: April 2023

Swipe-based dating apps characteristically provide quantitative social feedback in the form of matches. Surveys suggest a link between dating app success and well-being, but the nature of this correlation has yet to be examined. In an experiment with 125 undergraduate women, we manipulated dating app feedback: When accepting a profile, participants had either a high (27/31) or a low chance (3/31) of receiving matches. We found no effect of chance of matches on women’s loneliness or fear of being single. However, a higher chance of matches led to higher partner choice overload. Furthermore, in those who accepted seven or more profiles, women in the low chance of matches condition reported higher loneliness than women in the high chance of matches condition. This could mean that matches are rewarding for women with a high approach orientation. Manipulating social feedback in a dating app paradigm seems suitable to study the effects of social acceptance and ostracism.
Effect of strain path change on static recrystallization behavior of AT63 magnesium alloy
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Chakraborty Purnashis , Mohapatra Shanta , Tiwari Vikrant
Published: April 2023

The present work has examined the influence of strain path change on the static recrystallization process of Mg-6Al-3Sn (AT63) magnesium alloy. The samples were deformed at ambient temperature for three conditions; unidirectional rolling (UDR), clock cross rolling (CCR), and forging. The microstructural features of deformed and recrystallized samples at different conditions were characterized through optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD), hardness testing, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results suggest that the recrystallization predominately started at the prior grain boundaries and within the twin boundaries. A significant reduction of the grain size from 83 µm to ∼ 7 µm was observed after recrystallization. The recrystallization kinetics was relatively slower for CCR samples. It was attributed to the level of stored energy in the material, initial deformation texture, and evolution of fine precipitates.
Comparative role of quality signals and social network activities in overfunding: Evidence from equity crowdfunding
Authors: Wasti Syed Muhammad Hamza Abid , Ahmed Jaleel
Published: April 2023

Quality signals and social network activities can reduce information asymmetry and influence investors’ investment decision which result in overfunding. Based on signaling theory and elaboration likelihood model, we develop a research model to conduct an empirical study in the context of equity crowdfunding. This study uses quantitative data from Crowdcube, the United Kingdom based world largest equity crowdfunding platform. Results conclude that quality signals (campaign characteristics and directors’ information) have a positive significant impact on overfunding. Social network activities make investors feel the project has good electronic word of mouth, thus, have a positive significant impact on overfunding. Results reveal that investors give more weightage to quality signals than electronic word of mouth when making investment decision in equity crowdfunding.
Race as injustice and the im/possibility of racial justice
Authors: St Louis Brett
Published: April 2023

This review essay presents exposition and analysis of Nasar Meer’s, The Cruel Optimism of Racial Justice. I outline Meer’s argument detailing the historical emergence and ongoing social reproduction of racial injustice in relation to nation formation, endemic racism, health inequalities, restrictions on refugees and asylum, and White supremacism as pervasive throughout western societies. I suggest that Meer’s intervention usefully highlights racial injustice as normalised instead of exceptional and also raises the importance of white people divesting their racial privilege. Analytically, I argue that Meer’s book productively opens up a space to reflect on the efficacy of race as a normative category, both intrinsically and in relation to anti/racism. Furthermore, by demonstrating the inherent inequality of race, the book invites the reader to reflect on the coherence of a racialised ideal of justice.
The importance of art implementation in college general education
Authors: Aziz Allison
Published: April 2023

Throughout the years, general education (GE) has failed to see the value in visual arts programs in its curriculum across colleges in universities in the US. Even while creative careers continue to expand, and studies have shown the significance of the visual arts, art courses are still questioned as to their value and importance within the GE program. Visual art courses offer many important skills for students, and play a valuable role on self-concept and identity understanding. Discussed studies have shown the important role that visual art has played on various understandings of student identity. It is imperative for educators across all fields to recognize the value that visual art adds to the GE curriculum across colleges and universities in the US in order to best serve our students.