bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Method for Making an Auricle Framework Like Lego Building Blocks
Authors: Sun Pengfei , Yuan Limei , Yang Yang , Zhu Lingdong
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The traditional Tanzer-Brent method, which uses the integral engraving of costal cartilage, provides insufficient three-dimensional sensation and is characterized by poor firmness of the auricle framework. This tends to cause the absorption deformation of the auricle framework after surgery. In order to reduce the absorption deformation as well as make the reconstructed auricle more three-dimensional and the ear shape more realistic, our ear reconstruction team invented a novel method to make an auricle framework with autologous costal cartilage. The auricle framework made by this novel method has been applied to auricle reconstruction and has achieved excellent surgical results.

Patients and Methods

Clinical data and postoperative data were collected for patients with unilateral microtia who received auricle reconstruction using the novel method of auricle framework construction in Plastic Surgery Hospital from January 2020 to June 2022. The therapeutic effect of this novel method was evaluated by the satisfaction rate of patients and their families and by the prevalence of postoperative complications.

Results

A total of 60 patients were enrolled in this study. The average age was (10.95 ± 2.97) years old. The mean follow-up time was 24.02 ± 1.52 months. The satisfaction rate of patients and their families was 96.7%. In terms of postoperative complications, two patients had postoperative infection, one patient had framework exposure, no patients had framework absorption and deformation, two patients had postoperative hematoma, and three patients had scar hyperplasia.

Conclusion

This novel method of making the auricle framework is more standardized, easier to master for plastic surgeons, and more conducive to the clinical application of plastic surgery. Through this study, we believe that this novel method offers significant therapeutic advantages and can be used as a unified standard for construction of an auricle framework using autologous costal cartilage.
Effects of Tele-Counseling on Reducing Anxiety Levels of COVID-19 Patients in Isolation Wards: An Observational Study
Authors: Ganesan Sivaraman , Balasubramanian Bhuvaneshwaran , Krishnamurthy Pugazhendhi , Govindan Ramanujam , Mani Nanthakumar
Published: November 2022

Background:

COVID-19 causes psychological distress and anxiety due to fear of infection and the possibility of worsening symptoms leading to mortality. Public health measures like contact tracing and lockdowns further increase the panic among infected patients and the public. We intended to assess the effect of telecounseling in reducing anxiety in patients admitted to isolation wards.

Methods:

In this multi-center observational study, we administered a Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale before and after telecounseling. The study group consisted of participants who gave consent for telecounseling, and those who did not give consent constituted the control group. The telecounseling was based on the Psychological First Aid model, due to its simplicity.

Results:

There was a statistically significant decrease in anxiety after telecounseling in the study group (P value ≤ 0.001, effect size = 0.484). There was a statistically significant decrease in anxiety in the study group compared to the control group (P value ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion:

Telecounseling contributed to the reduction in anxiety in COVID-19 patients in isolation wards. Several other factors like severity of the infection, comorbid medical illness, pre-existing mental health issues, individual’s level of coping with stress, and duration and place of admission may have affected the anxiety levels in the patients.
Depression, Anxiety, and Quality of Life in Patients Treated with Single Infusion Tocilizumab for COVID-19: A Follow-up, Controlled Study
Authors: Chakravarty Rahul , Jyani Gaurav , Paul Samita , Mohindra Ritin , Goyal Manoj , Suri Vikas , Bhalla Ashish , Singh Shubh Mohan
Published: November 2022

Background:

The inflammatory state that characterizes COVID-19 may contribute to depression, anxiety, other morbidities, and mortality. Interleukin-6 blocker tocilizumab has been used as a treatment modality in COVID-19 as an anti-inflammatory agent. Tocilizumab has also been studied for its potential use in preventing depression in other patient groups, with mixed results. This study was designed to study subsequent depression, anxiety, and quality of life (QOL) in patients treated with tocilizumab plus standard care versus standard care alone, for moderate to severe COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods:

Patients admitted with moderate to severe COVID pneumonia, treated with tocilizumab plus standard treatment, and discharged from the hospital were identified. Age- and gender-matched controls who had received standard treatment alone for COVID-19 pneumonia during the same time frame were identified. After obtaining consent, these patients were followed up and assessed at 3 and 6 months on measures of depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and QOL (EQ-5D-5L).

Results:

39 patients in the tocilizumab group and 41 in the control group were followed up at 3 and 6 months. Patients in both groups were comparable in sociodemographic and clinical parameters. The prevalence of clinically significant depression in the tocilizumab group at 3 and 6 months was 33.33% and 5.12%, respectively, whereas in control group it was 31.7% and 4.87%, respectively. Analysis of EQ-5D health profiles revealed that the maximum problems were reported in the dimension of mobility: 43.7% at 3 months and 35% at 6 months.

Conclusions:

Depressive and anxiety symptoms and impairment in QOL were reported more frequently and with greater severity in patients in the tocilizumab group at three months but not at six months. Psychological morbidity and impairment in QOL were modest and improved from 3 to 6 months.
Book review: Kanad Sinha, From Dasrajna to Kuruksetra: Making of a Historical Tradition
Authors: Shah Shalini
Published: November 2022

Kanad Sinha, From Dasrajna to Kuruksetra: Making of a Historical Tradition, Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2021, pp. 548, ₹1795. ISBN: 9780190130695
Book review: Radhika Singha, The Coolie’s Great War: Indian Labour in a Global Conflict, 1914–1921
Authors: Raghavan Srinath
Published: November 2022

Radhika Singha, The Coolie’s Great War: Indian Labour in a Global Conflict, 1914–1921, Harper Collins, New Delhi, 2020, 396pp., ₹699
Rationally Inattentive Behaviour with A Priori Knowledge
Authors: Dvořák Jiří , Votava Libor , Komárková Lenka , Sabolovic Mojmír , Pospíšil Jan Závodný
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

To contribute to the discussion on the importance of the sense of fairness in the decision-making process according to the theory of rational inattention.

Design:

The study is based on an experiment where economically educated respondents state and justify the price at which they are willing to provide and accept help in an emergency.

Findings:

Most of the respondents are willing to provide and accept help. For the assistance provided, most would demand a significantly lower price than the maximum economic return defined by the known value of the commercial service. The respondents were repeatedly willing to pass on the pricing decision to the counterparty.

Practical Implications:

This behaviour in decision-making processes represents non-inclusion of a sufficient a priori knowledge as a determining factor in the selection of variants, which is a limitation in the cognitively limited modelling of economic subjects.

Originality/Value:

The results are based on the original experiment as an empirical basis and it is valuable because of the lack of experimental research in this domain. Limitations include the relatively small sample of respondents and, in terms of generalising the results, that they were students at a university of economics. JEL: D01, D11, D12, D14
A multicenter phase 2 single arm study of cabozantinib in patients with advanced or unresectable renal cell carcinoma pre-treated with one immune-checkpoint inhibitor: The BREAKPOINT trial (Meet-Uro trial 03)
Authors: Procopio Giuseppe , Claps Mélanie , Pircher Chiara , Porcu Luca , Sepe Pierangela , Guadalupi Valentina , De Giorgi Ugo , Bimbatti Davide , Nolè Franco , Carrozza Francesco , Buti Sebastiano , Iacovelli Roberto , Ciccarese Chiara , Masini Cristina , Baldessari Cinzia , Doni Laura , Cusmai Antonio , Gernone Angela , Scagliarini Sarah , Pignata Sandro , de Braud Filippo , Verzoni Elena
Published: November 2022

Background:

First-line therapies based on immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) significantly improved survival of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) patients. Cabozantinib was shown to target kinases involved in immune-escape and to prolong survival in patients pre-treated with tyrosine-kinase-inhibitors (TKIs). The impact of ICIs combinations in first line on subsequent therapies is still unclear.

Methods:

This is an open label, multicenter, single arm, phase II study designed to assess activity, safety and efficacy of cabozantinib in mRCC patients progressed after an adjuvant or first line anti-Programmed Death (PD)-1/PD-Ligand (PD-L) 1-based therapy. Primary endpoint was progression free survival (PFS), secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) and safety.

Results:

31 patients were included in the analysis. After a median (m) follow-up of 11.9 months, mPFS was 8.3 months (90%CI 3.9-17.4) and mOS was 13.8 months (95%CI 7.7-29.0). ORR was 37.9% with an additional 13 patients achieving disease stability. Grade 3-4 adverse events occurred in 47% of patients, including more frequently creatine phosphokinase (CPK) serum level elevation, neutropenia, hyponatremia, diarrhea, hand-food syndrome, oral mucositis and hypertension.

Conclusions:

The BREAKPOINT trial met its primary endpoint showing that cabozantinib as second line therapy after ICIs was active in mRCC. Safety profile was manageable.

Trial registration number:

NCT03463681 - A Study of CaBozantinib in Patients With Advanced or Unresectable Renal cEll cArcinoma (BREAKPOINT) - https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03463681
‘A little piece of my heart goes with each of them’: Foster carer reflections on current fostering practice
Authors: Blackburn Carolyn , Matchett Elaine
Published: November 2022

In the UK, fostering is the principal way of looking after children in care. Foster carers have been reported to be motivated to undertake this task by an intrinsic desire to nurture and improve the lives of young people. However, the work faces numerous challenges, especially with regard to relationships with other professionals involved in children’s lives and a lack of support for young people with complex needs. Allegations made against carers also increase the potential for carer stress and an exit from fostering. This article reports the findings from an online survey of 422 foster carers in England, complemented by eight in-depth interviews. Although this research was undertaken during the global Covid-19 pandemic when schools and other social settings were closed for prolonged periods, which had some effect on participants’ responses, the issues raised were enduring rather than ephemeral. The findings highlight the two key themes of ‘transformative professional relationships’ and ‘translations of professional love’. Recommendations for professional training across disciplines are suggested.
Effect of Train-Driving Simulator Practice in the European Rail Traffic Management System: An Experimental Study
Authors: Olsson Niklas , Lidestam Björn , Thorslund Birgitta
Published: November 2022

Many European train drivers face major changes in their work with the introduction of the new train-protection system, the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS), as information retrieval shifts from outside to in-cab, and a new rulebook is introduced. Therefore, many train drivers have to be educated in a short time, to make the transition safe and efficient. The purpose was to find out how a successful ERTMS practice can be designed in a physically low-fidelity but highly functional train-driving simulator. An experimental design was used, with 16 drivers divided into two groups: one group practiced in a simulator, and the other in reality. Standard training methodology was used, and the learning outcome was assessed by both measuring driving errors and via instructor evaluation of a simulator test. The drivers also filled in a questionnaire to capture how different factors, such as repeated practice, experience, and self-estimated confidence, correlate with performance. Results show that the simulator group committed significantly fewer driving errors and received significantly higher scores from the instructor. In addition, the simulator group's better performance is mostly caused by the possibility of repeated training of different special cases. The findings also imply that several of the more common special cases on the ERTMS can hardly be provoked in real train driving. Furthermore, this work strengthens the theory that novices can hardly estimate their own ability. Therefore, we argue that this type of low-fidelity simulator is well suited for research purposes, for practicing special cases, and for train operation companies to assess drivers’ skills.
Diagnostic and prognostic values of MMP-9 expression in ovarian cancer: A study based on bioinformatics analysis and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Changyu , Shen Ying , Tan Qiyan
Published: November 2022

This study aims to explore the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) associated with both diagnostic and prognostic value in ovarian cancer by meta-analysis and bioinformatics analyses. We investigated the prognostic value of MMP-9 expression in ovarian cancer based on The Cancer Genome Atlas. Five databases were used to collect records about MMP-9 expression related to diagnostic and prognostic values in ovarian cancer from inception to June 2022. Using Stata 15.0 software, hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR) were calculated as the effect index of prognosis. We chose the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) to judge the diagnostic utility of MMP-9 for ovarian cancer. A total of 23 studies on prognosis, and five studies on diagnosis were entered into the meta-analysis. These suggest that high MMP-9 expression was detrimental to the overall survival of patients with ovarian cancer (HR = 1.34; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08∼1.66; P<0.01). High MMP-9 expression increased the risk of tumor stage (OR = 3.66; 95% CI 1.89∼7.07), but was not related to the tumor grade of ovarian cancer ( P>0.05). The pooled analysis of serum MMP-9 diagnosing for ovarian cancer gave the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC the values of 0.72 (95% CI 0.61∼0.81), 0.81 (95% CI 0.77∼0.85), and 0.84 (95% CI 0.81∼0.87), respectively. High MMP-9 expression can increase the tumor stage, and a correlation exists between high MMP-9 expression and poor prognosis in patients with ovarian cancer. Also, serum MMP-9 has a good diagnostic value for ovarian cancer.
Meta-Analysis Comparing Bivalirudin Versus. Unfractionated Heparin in Adult Patients With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Kido Kazuhiko , Kabulski Galen M. , Szymanski Thomas W. , Shiga Tsuyoshi , Shimizu Mikiko , Hashiguchi Masayuki
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Unfractionated heparin (UFH) has traditionally been the agent of choice in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). However, direct thrombin inhibitors (DTI) have recently garnered more attention in ECMO because of their advantages over UFH. Given the heterogeneous results of multiple recent published studies, we performed a meta-analysis to describe pooled outcomes between bivalirudin and UFH anticoagulation in patients on ECMO. Methods: Relevant studies were identified from MEDLINE and Google Scholar database searches through April 23, 2022. The primary efficacy outcome was thromboembolism (TE), and secondary efficacy outcomes included all-cause mortality and circuit thrombosis. The primary safety outcome was major bleeding. Results: A total of 6 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Bivalirudin use was associated with significantly lower risk of TE (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.38-.99; P = .05; I2 = 0%) and circuit thrombosis (OR 0.51; 95% CI .32-.80; P = .004; I2 = 0%) compared with UFH. There was no significant difference in all-cause mortality risk (OR 0.75; 95% CI .52−1.09; P = .13; I2 = 30%) between the bivalirudin and UFH groups. No significant difference in the risk of major bleeding between 2 groups was found (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.25−1.81; P = .43; I2 = 80%). Conclusion: These data support that bivalirudin is a reasonable alternative to UFH in patients on ECMO. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm bivalirudin’s efficacy and safety results compared with UFH.
Bifurcation and chaos analysis of mold splicing zone vibration under thermal-mechanical coupling
Authors: Liu Zhen , Wu Shi , Liu Xianli
Published: November 2022

To improve the machining quality of the splicing area of the hardened steel mold, this paper proposes a bifurcation and chaos analysis method for the milling vibration of the splicing area of the mold under the coupled thermal-mechanical effect. First, based on the instantaneous milling force model at the splice, the milling dynamics equations of a two-degree-of-freedom rectangular spliced mold part are established. By applying the Galerkin method, the resulting nonlinear partial differential equation is reduced to a single-degree-of-freedom nonlinear system. Meanwhile, by using the Melnikov function method, the criteria for chaos motion are obtained by the Smale horseshoe mapping. Then, the fourth-order Runge-Kutta algorithm is applied to solve the bifurcation diagram, largest Lyapunov exponent diagram, displacement waveform diagram, and phase plane diagram of the nonlinear dynamic system in the mold splicing area. Subsequently, the influence of spindle speed and cutting depth on the nonlinear vibration system in the mold splice area is quantitatively analyzed. Finally, the effect of spindle speed and cutting depth on the vibration system of the workpiece is investigated through experiments. The obtained results indicate that the milling vibration amplitude in the rectangular splicing mold area can be controlled more easily and effectively by changing the cutting depth than by changing the spindle speed.
Mechanism and reduction of windage power losses for high speed herringbone gear
Authors: Wei Kun , Lu Fengxia , Bao Heyun , Zhu Rupeng
Published: November 2022

With the objective of reducing windage power losses (WPL) in herringbone gears, WPL experiments involving the use of a shroud are conducted. Based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a herringbone gear numerical model is established. Based on the renormalization group (RNG) k–ε two-equation turbulence model and dynamic mesh technique, the features of flow field distribution around the gear; mechanism of reduction of WPL; shroud installation distance, coverage, and installation position; and influence law of WPL are analyzed. The CFD and experimental results, which exhibit good consistency, are used to infer the WPL behavior with respect to the input parameters.
A calculation model of TC4 shot peening residual stress based on elastic-plastic theory
Authors: Wang Yanzhong , Zhang Wei , Yu Bo , Li Zhenpeng , Liu Yang
Published: November 2022

Shot peening is widely used in automobile, aviation, and other industries because it can change the fatigue strength of metal structures by introducing residual compressive stress field on the surface and significantly improve the fatigue life of mechanical structures. In order to improve the surface properties of parts after shot peening, an analysis method for rapidly predicting residual stress of parts surface during shot peening is proposed. During the analysis, an elastoplastic impact model of shot was established, and stress–strain laws in three processes of elastic loading, plastic deformation and stress release were studied. The residual stress under different shot peening parameters was predicted by considering the plastic strengthening effect of TC4 (Ti-6Al-4V). A TC4 shot peening test was performed and residual stress was measured, and the results are consistent with the model predictions, which verified correctness of the model.
Influence of SiC and WC reinforcements on the mechanical characteristics of AA6061 hybrid metal matrix composites
Authors: Suresh N , Balamurugan L , Jayabalakrishnan D
Published: November 2022

The stir casting process was used to prepare AA6061 hybrid aluminium composites with Silicon Carbide and Tungsten Carbide as reinforcement components in this study. For this analysis, five samples were taken with varied compositions of Silicon Carbide ( x) and Tungsten Carbide ( y) depending on weight fraction (x: y = 0: 0 percent, 4: 4 percent, 8: 8 percent). Prior to manufacturing, the reinforcing granules are ball milled and microscopically examined using SEM and laser-based particle size analysers to validate particulate micron size. The SEM images show that particle size is reduced following ball milling. Laser particle analysis reveals typical mean particle sizes of up to 4.2 microns in SiC and 5.9 microns in WC. XRD and EDAX tests were conducted to investigate the material compositions. The mechanical properties of unreinforced and reinforced hybrid composites, including hardness, tensile, compression, and impact behaviour, were examined. SEM Images of broken samples were analysed to investigate sample microstructure. Hardness, tensile strength, and compression rise as the proportion of reinforcements increases, but impact energy reduces as the percentage of reinforcements increases. Composites containing 8 percent Silicon Carbide and 8 percent Tungsten Carbide had the best mechanical properties, with an ultimate tensile strength of 232.62 MPa, an ultimate compressive strength of 569.3 MPa, an impact energy of 3.4 J, and a hardness of 97.8 HV. Because the material's mechanical properties have improved, it can be used to make parts of automobiles, machines, and spacecraft.
Plant distribution and modern pollen deposition across an elevation eco-gradient: The lesson learnt from a case study in the Italian Alps
Authors: Fontana Valentina , Furlanetto Giulia , Bertuletti Paolo , Brunetti Michele , Zerbe Stefan , Pini Roberta
Published: November 2022

This study investigates the distribution of vegetation and its modern pollen representation along an elevation gradient in the Italian Alps and explores the relationships with terrain and climate variables. Moss polsters were collected at 25 sites between ca. 300 and 1400 m asl from open areas, deciduous, and conifer forests. At each site vegetation was surveyed at 1.8 and 10 m radius according to the Braun-Blanquet method. Climatic data, bioclimatic indices, and terrain parameters were obtained for each sampling site. Three distinct pollen associations reflect the characteristic vegetation altitudinal belts present in the study area. Uphill dispersal, the regional load and the presence of high producers influence the abundance of pollen and the representation of taxa along the gradient. CCA ordination technique reveals the predictive power of environmental variables on modern pollen and vegetation datasets. The most relevant factors controlling vegetation distribution are identified in elevation, insolation, Pspring, Tsummer, the Ellenberg quotient, and Summer Water Balance (SWB). Elevation, insolation, summer P and T, the Ellenberg quotient, and the Gams’ hygric continentality index (GAMS) explain more variance within the pollen dataset. A qualitative comparison among pollen and the corresponding parent plant occurrence qualifies Abies alba, Fagus sylvatica, Poaceae and Cyclamen pollen as suitable indicators taxa of the local vegetation in the study area. Several high producers with very effective, long-distance anemophilous dispersal ( Pinus, Ostrya, Alnus, and Juglans) or mixed pollination mechanisms (anemophilous and insect-pollination: Fraxinus ornus, and Castanea) show no or little association with their parent plants.
European journalists and the sea: Contexts, motivations, and difficulties
Authors: Pinto Bruno , Matias Ana
Published: November 2022

The media play an important role in informing us about new developments in our understanding of the sea and raising awareness about its sustainability. However, press coverage of marine issues seems to be modest, compared with the importance oceans have in our lives. In this study, we examine science journalists’ working contexts, motivations, and difficulties in writing about the sea in Europe. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 journalists who write for quality newspapers from 13 European countries. We found that the recent production of press news on marine issues is mainly conditioned by working contexts in newspapers, the personal and professional interests of journalists, and the available resources to write news. More studies are needed to compare our findings, including with other regions outside Europe.
Acute correction of distal femoral deformities by retrograde femoral nail using preoperative planning
Authors: Kariksiz Mesut , Karakoyun Ozgur
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study presents the technique and results of acute correction of distal femoral deformities using retrograde femoral nailing based on preoperative planning without using a fixator.

Methods

Twenty-eight patients (34 limbs: 22 left-sided, 12 right-sided, mean age = 36 years) undergoing distal femoral deformity correction with retrograde femoral nailing between 2013 and 2020 were examined retrospectively. The osteotomy line, block screw location and number were identified by detailed preoperative planning. Osteotomy was performed using the percutaneous multiple drill method, and the retrograde femoral nail was placed.

Results

The average follow-up period was 62.7 months (range: 13–84 months). Postoperatively, the mean mechanical axis deviation was corrected to 6.8 mm (range: 0–8 mm) and the mean mechanical lateral distal femoral angle to 87.42° (range: 84–90°). The Association for the Study an Application of the Method of Ilizarov (ASAMI) score was excellent for all patients. None of the patients had fracture, infection, implant failure, or non-union.

Conclusion

Distal femoral deformities can be corrected acutely, without applying external fixators, with good preoperative planning and using the retrograde femoral nail. This technique is safe and effective, with a low complication rate.
A novel laparoscopic surgical robot (LSR) based on double-leg ultrasonic motor (DUM)
Authors: Lu Qing , Sun Zhijun , Yan He , Zhang Jiacheng , Zhang Jialiang , Yang Jianlin
Published: November 2022

Magnetic anchor and guidance system has been widely used in laparoendoscopic single-site surgery with the benefit of small wound, wide field of vision (FoV), and convenience for repeated positioning. This paper introduces a novel three DoF laparoscopic surgical robot (LSR) based on double-leg ultrasonic motor (DUM) which features small dimension, fast response, and high positional precision. Piezoelectric ceramic (PZT) plates can excite longitudinal and bending coupled vibration of DUM and the two phase in-plane three order bending vibration can form traveling wave to drive DUM rotor. DUM stator is optimized by non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II for good consistency of two working mode frequencies and negligible influence of adjacent interference modes on working modes, which improves motion stability and driving efficiency. The mechanical characteristic of DUM under different chamfer parameters has been studied through comparative experiments and the design of robot prototype is completed further. For clockwise and counterclockwise rotation, the maximum no-load rotary speeds are 333.75 and 335.77 rpm, and the maximum output torques are 2 and 1.6 N mm. The experimental platform for FoV measurement is built to verify that LSR can adjust the posture to obtain suitable surgical FoV, indicating that the application of DUM in LSR has significant advantages and great potential.
Palliative Care and End-of-Life Outcomes in Patients Considered for Liver Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience in the US Midwest
Authors: Kieffer Sawyer F , Tanaka Tomohiro , Ogilvie Amy C , Gilbertson-White Stephanie , Hagiwara Yuya
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Previous research has shown limited palliative care (PC) utilization among patients evaluated for liver transplantation (LT) despite the cohort’s significant symptom burden, high frequency of hospitalization and risk of rapid decompensation. Our aim was to evaluate patient characteristics and end-of-life (EOL) outcomes (i.e. ICU utilization, code status, advance care planning) associated with the use of PC services in patients who were evaluated for LT. Methods: We performed a single-center cross-sectional study comprised of 223 deceased patients evaluated for LT between 1/1/2017 and 12/31/2021. We evaluated demographic characteristics and EOL outcomes for differences between patients who received PC consultation and those who did not. EOL outcomes associated with PC use were assessed using logistic and linear regression analysis adjusted for patient demographics. Results: Patients who received PC consultation were younger (mean 57 vs. 61; P = 0.048), had higher Model for end-stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores (27.5 vs. 22; P = 0.001), higher rates of hepatic encephalopathy (96% vs. 84%, P = 0.005), and were more frequently declined for LT (77% vs. 57%; P = 0.008). Patients who received PC services were less likely to die in the ICU (OR = 0.07 [0.02-0.18]) and were more likely to have documented advance care planning (OR = 3.16 [1.47-6.97]), family meetings (OR = 6.58 [2.72-17.08]), and goals-of-care discussions (OR = 14.83 [4.39-69.29]). Conclusion: For patients being evaluated for LT, PC utilization differed based on demographics, disease complications and severity, and transplant status. Those who received PC services had higher quality EOL care planning and fewer ICU admissions.
‘New Forces’: How Classroom Textbooks Are Redefining Journalism
Authors: Coatney Caryn
Published: November 2022

Educators increasingly need to teach journalism within everchanging digital newsrooms. This study conducts a rare analysis of popular, United States–focused textbooks to answer a foundational question: What is journalism? Drawing on concepts of journalism’s social function, this analysis finds the university textbooks are providing more upbeat messages, but significantly different definitions. General textbooks often emphasize a dominant, print-oriented watchdog role, while specialized books mostly accentuate journalists’ neighborly, multimedia approach to reporting everyday life. This study points to the value of providing pluralist journalism approaches that show varied views of journalists’ moral authority in reporting for diverse audiences.
Toward a Taxonomy of News Video
Authors: Weller Denby
Published: November 2022

News video is a complicated medium for journalism students to grasp. It is bounded by its own set of conventions, some of which are drawn from film theory and others from pragmatic considerations in under-resourced newsrooms. Although video production is increasingly a required skill for students graduating from journalism programs, there is a dearth of resources for undergraduate students interested in understanding why certain kinds of videos work better in some settings than others. This paper aims to develop a taxonomy of news video communication designed to help students further their understanding of the nuances, challenges, and strengths of video as a tool for today’s multimedia-savvy journalist.
Application of Digital Imaging and Artificial Intelligence to Pathology of the Placenta
Authors: Marletta Stefano , Pantanowitz Liron , Santonicco Nicola , Caputo Alessandro , Bragantini Emma , Brunelli Matteo , Girolami Ilaria , Eccher Albino
Published: November 2022

Digital imaging, including the use of artificial intelligence, has been increasingly applied to investigate the placenta and its related pathology. However, there has been no comprehensive review of this body of work to date. The aim of this study was to therefore review the literature regarding digital pathology of the placenta. A systematic literature search was conducted in several electronic databases. Studies involving the application of digital imaging and artificial intelligence techniques to human placental samples were retrieved and analyzed. Relevant articles were categorized by digital image technique and their relevance to studying normal and diseased placenta. Of 2008 retrieved articles, 279 were included. Digital imaging research related to the placenta was often coupled with immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, 3D reconstruction, and/or deep learning algorithms. By significantly increasing pathologists’ ability to recognize potentially prognostic relevant features and by lessening inter-observer variability, published data overall indicate that the application of digital pathology to placental and perinatal diseases, along with clinical and radiology correlation, has great potential to improve fetal and maternal health care including the selection of targeted therapy in high-risk pregnancy.
Indigenous and Settler Understandings for Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Australia: The Significance of a Decolonial Approach
Authors: Keddie Amanda
Published: November 2022

Addressing the gendered dimensions of family violence remains a key focus in the primary prevention of violence against women (PVAW) in Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian communities. What is seen as more important for Indigenous communities in PVAW is addressing the legacies and ongoing impacts of colonisation on Indigenous people, families, and communities. This focus on decolonisation deviates from settler PVAW programs where the emphasis is on challenging hegemonic masculinity and patriarchy. In this paper, I consider the importance of critiquing the western logic of colonisation within both Indigenous and non-Indigenous PVAW programs through examining the links between hegemonic masculinity, colonisation and neoliberal capitalism. I draw attention to the inherent violence and corrosion within processes of colonisation that adversely affect the social and emotional wellbeing and relationships of Indigenous and non-Indigenous men (albeit in very different ways) and argue the importance of a decolonising approach for addressing gender-based violence within Indigenous and non-Indigenous programs.
Teaming Up with Technology Developers in STEM: A Capstone Advertising Campaign Course Collaborations with Engineering and Computer Science
Authors: Wagler Adam
Published: November 2022

What role does advertising play in product development as part of owned media? For three years, a capstone advertising campaign course collaborated with STEM courses to form interdisciplinary teams composed of advertising, engineering, and computer science. The study provides insight into how teams can be more entrepreneurial by building on the strengths and techniques advertising students possess. Students, faculty, and external partners all saw the experiences as rewarding and valuable. Incorporating scrum project management gave more agency to advertising students while exposing them to product development processes commonly used by those who create technology. STEM students benefited from in-depth research to inform the products and see how advertising techniques can influence their development process. An overview of the approach, scrum project management, technology, assessment tools, lessons learned, and strategies to accomplish meaningful learning throughout the campaign collaborations with STEM students are provided.
Is the routine use of local antibiotics in the management of periprosthetic joint infections justified?
Authors: Bourget-Murray Jonathan , Azad Marisa , Gofton Wade , Abdelbary Hesham , Garceau Simon , Grammatopoulos George
Published: November 2022

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) following total hip and total knee arthroplasty continues to be a leading cause of re-operation and revision arthroplasty. Not only is the treatment of PJI notoriously challenging, but success rates are variable. Regardless of the surgical strategy used, successful management of PJI requires a comprehensive surgical debridement focused at eradicating the underlying biofilm followed by appropriate antimicrobial therapy. Although systemic antimicrobial delivery continues to be a cornerstone in the treatment of PJI, many surgeons have started using local antibiotics to deliver higher concentrations of antibiotics directly into the vulnerable joint and adjacent soft tissues, which often have compromised vascularity. Available evidence on the use of topical powder, bone cement, and calcium sulphate carriers for local delivery of antibiotics during the initial treatment of PJI is limited to studies that are extremely heterogeneous. There is currently no level-1 evidence to support routinely using these products. Further, appropriately powered, prospective studies are needed to quantify the safety and efficacy of antibiotic-located calcium-sulphate carriers to justify their added costs. These products should not encourage surgeons to deviate from best practice guidelines, such as those recommended during the International Consensus Meeting on Musculoskeletal Infections.
Serum NfL but not GFAP predicts cognitive decline in active progressive multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Barro Christian , Healy Brian C , Saxena Shrishti , Glanz Bonnie I , Paul Anu , Polgar-Turcsanyi Mariann , Guttmann Charles RG , Bakshi Rohit , Weiner Howard L , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: November 2022

Background:

Cognitive decline is inadequately captured by the standard neurological examination. Serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) are biomarkers of neuronal damage and astrocytic reactivity that may offer an accessible measure of the multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology linked to cognitive decline.

Objective:

To investigate the association of sNfL and sGFAP with cognitive decline in MS patients at high risk for progressive pathology.

Methods:

We included 94 MS patients with sustained Expanded Disability Status Score (EDSS) ⩾ 3, available serum samples and cognitive assessment performed by symbol digit modalities test (SDMT) over a median of 3.1 years. The visit for sGFAP/sNfL quantification was at confirmed EDSS ⩾ 3. Linear regression analysis on log-transformed sGFAP/sNfL assessed the association with current and future SDMT. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, EDSS, treatment group, and recent relapse.

Results:

sNfL was significantly associated with concurrent SDMT (adjusted change in mean SDMT = −4.5; 95% confidence interval (CI): −8.7, −0.2; p = 0.039) and predicted decline in SDMT (adjusted change in slope: −1.14; 95% CI: −1.83, −0.44; p = 0.001), particularly in active patients. sGFAP was not associated with concurrent or future SDMT.

Conclusions:

Higher levels of sNfL were associated with cognitive impairment and predicted cognitive decline in MS patients at high risk for having an underlying progressive pathology.
A new focus for left-wing Parties: The salience of low-wage work in the electoral manifestos of OECD countries
Authors: Durocher Dominic
Published: November 2022

The recent mobilization by living wage movements and unions to raise minimum wages have put the issue of low-wage work at the center of political debates in several countries. To study the position of political parties on this issue, we use electoral manifestos from 18 western democracies from 1990 to 2019. The results show that left-wing parties mention much more often the issue of low-wage work than right-wing parties, especially in countries with a weak degree of corporatism. The different categories of respectively left- and right-wing parties are quite similar in their mentions of low-wage work issues. However, ecologist parties mention low-wage work issues less often than other left parties and radical left parties tend to make broad criticisms of low-wage work more often than center-left parties.
Gaussian closure technique for a simple tank model with non-zero mean random load and elasto-plasticity
Authors: Waubke Holger , Kasess Christian H
Published: November 2022

Previously, it was shown how the behavior of chain-like structures including hysteretic elements as described by the Bouc model under white noise excitation can be calculated using Gaussian closure. The method results in analytic expressions for the temporal evolution of the statistical moments. Using the example of a liquid-filled tank, the Gaussian closure is generalized to the case of a filtered white noise with a slowly varying intensity as may occur during earthquakes. The complexity of the model is further enhanced for a case that lacks an elastic restoring force at the hysteretic node that couples the tank model with the surface. The new tank model comprises three mechanical degrees of freedom. The first degree of freedom is the movement of mass of the tank. The second degree of freedom is the movement of the swapping mass of the fluid in the tank. The third degree of freedom is the movement of the impulsive mass that is coupled more stiffly.
Self-identified Spanish-speaking early childhood educators abriendo puertas for bilingualism through a care-based linguistic stewardship of Spanish
Authors: Pontier Ryan W , Riera David
Published: November 2022

This article focuses on self-identified Spanish-speaking early childhood educators’ experiences with and views of bilingualism as they learned about translanguaging—a dynamic, liberatory, and culturally and linguistically sustaining theory and practice of language. Artifacts and conversations with teachers showed that, counter to many of their painful experiences with language and bilingualism, they believed in and cultivated an education of care, which often included creating translanguaging spaces where Spanish was both expected and highly valued. In turn, the teachers believed that their protection of and support for Spanish would serve as a foundation on which children and families could grow their bilingualism.
Exploring the perceptions of early childhood educators on the delivery of multilingual education in Australia: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Jones Diaz Criss , Cardona Beatriz , Escudero Paola
Published: November 2022

Australia lags behind other linguistic and culturally diverse countries in policy direction and approaches to early multilingual education, despite well-established research documenting the intellectual, linguistic, sociocultural, familial and economic benefits of multilingualism in the early years. This is evidenced by the absence of a national policy framework that addresses early multilingual education in Australia, and the relatively limited attention given to research on the role of early childhood education in supporting and extending children's home languages. Within this context, using data from a larger study on early multilingual education, this article builds on empirical data from interviews with four educators representing two early childhood education settings. This article aims to examine the educators’ perspectives of their settings’ policy and practice, in the absence of broader curriculum frameworks, regarding their role in extending children's home languages. Despite this policy gap, the authors explore how these settings facilitated the diverse linguistic and cultural assets of children and families by supporting and extending children's home languages. Drawing on Bourdieu's framework of social practice, they examine various pedagogical approaches implemented at the settings that validated children's multilingualism, and explore the range of opportunities afforded to multilingual children in using their home languages at the settings. The findings reveal that despite the educators’ well-developed understandings of the benefits of early multilingualism, there is some confusion regarding appropriate pedagogical approaches for multilingual support in early childhood education.
What about teachers’ cultures? Elevating early childhood teachers’ culture stories through a Kristevan lens
Authors: Arndt Sonja , Bartholomaeus Clare
Published: November 2022

Curricula and policy documents in Australia and elsewhere commonly call for early childhood teachers to nurture cultural belonging for young children and their families. Meanwhile, there remains a critical gap in addressing teachers’ cultural belonging. In this article, the authors consider early childhood teachers’ culture stories and identities, drawing on an exploratory project involving four teachers from early childhood settings in Melbourne. They use Julia Kristeva's philosophy on subject formation and the Other to explore teachers’ identities as never fully knowable, even to themselves. Reflecting on teachers’ stories through Kristeva's philosophical approach to the subject in process (through the elements of the semiotic, love, abjection and revolt) offers the potential for increasingly nuanced insights into intercultural relations within teaching teams. Thinking through these culture stories creates a space for teachers’ identity constructions to strengthen cultural well-being, belonging and intercultural understanding in early childhood teaching teams and communities.
HyperCube4x: A viewport management system proposal
Authors: Lima Alessandro Rego de , Carvalho Diana Carneiro Machado de , Rocha Tânia de Jesus Vilela da
Published: November 2022

This article presents a novel management and information visualization system proposal based on the tesseract, the 4D-hypercube. The concept comprises metaphors that mimic the tesseract geometrical properties using interaction and information visualization techniques, made possible by modern computer systems and human capabilities such as spatial cognition. The discussion compares the Hypercube and the traditional desktop metaphor systems. An operational prototype is also available for reader testing. Finally, a preliminary assessment with 31 participants revealed that 81.05% “agree” or “totally agree” that the proposed concepts offer real gains compared to the desktop metaphor.
Jesus Was an Epidemiologist (and Black), PT.I
Authors: Petteway Ryan J.
Published: November 2022

The path to health equity is lined with our samples and specimens—Black, Brown, Indigenous, queer, poor, immigrant, and so on. Bodies broken open in the name of science. And we . . . are being regressed. Using religious symbolism, this piece draws from critical and Black feminist theory to interrogate the ceremonial breaking of the Black body via the epidemiologic imaginary. It renders an interpretation of public health script/scripture premised upon White scholars seeking salvation/to save—borderline cultish forays of “health equity tourism” (Lett et al., 2022) into communities of color to break our bodies into pieces, to pass our specimens/samples around as if portioned into statistical chalices. In doing so, this piece draws out considerations not only of racial bias within research itself, but also racial exclusion and underrepresentation as a broader concern within epidemiology knowledge production processes—wherein credentialed researchers, grant review panels, editors, editorial boards, and “peer” reviewers remain overwhelmingly and disproportionately White. This piece accordingly questions the notion of “peer” review, calling out the manner in which colorblind structural racism invisibilizes the White scientific gaze—that is, the undeniable whiteness of who is “peering” into whose bodies/communities. As the public health field continues to deepen engagements with principles/practices of antiracism and decolonization, this poem draws attention to how current dynamics not only re-inscribe social hierarchy, but reify epidemiologic research as racial-capitalist (re)colonization and mode of epistemic and public health violence vis-à-vis practices of silencing, erasure, fragmentation, expropriation, monetization, and consumption of the racialized body.To view the original version of this poem, see the supplemental material section of this article online.