bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid Target Selection Model of Functional Safety Compliance for Autonomous Driving System
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Zihan , Cai Mengchi , Xu Qing , Li Keqiang
Published: February 2025

The autonomous driving system faces challenges in selecting critical targets under dense environments with limited computation resources. Existing rule-based methods struggle with complex scenarios, while learning-based approaches lack interpretability and safety. This paper proposes a hybrid target selection model combining a lightweight long short-term memory (LSTM) based deep learning classifier and rule-based methods. Key input features are identified and processed to enhance training. The LSTM model is validated for accuracy and efficiency against bidirectional LSTM (Bi-LSTM) variations. Compared to the single approach, the hybrid model integrates the LSTM classifier and rule-based methods with a synthesizer, demonstrating improved accuracy, better interpretability, and a potentially higher functional safety level. Integrated into TDA4VM, the hybrid model shows timely and complementary target selection performance in actual urban and highway tests with low computation costs, proving its theoretical value and engineering prospects.
Deep Learning Based Image Aesthetic Quality Assessment- A Review
Authors: Daryanavard Chounchenani Maedeh , Shahbahrami Asadollah , Hassanpour Reza , Gaydadjiev Georgi
Published: February 2025

Image Aesthetic Quality Assessment (IAQA) spans applications such as the fashion industry, AI-generated content, product design, and e-commerce. Recent deep learning advancements have been employed to evaluate image aesthetic quality. A few surveys have been conducted on IAQA models; however, details of recent deep learning models and challenges have not been fully mentioned. This article aims to fill these gaps by providing a review of deep learning IAQA over the past decade, based on input, process, and output phases. Methodologies for deep learning–based IAQA can be categorized into general and task-specific approaches, depending on the type and diversity of input images. The processing phase involves considerations related to network architecture, learning structures, and feature extraction methods. The output phase generates results such as scoring, distribution, attributes, and description. Despite achieving a maximum accuracy of 91.5%, further improvements in deep learning models are still required. Our study highlights several challenges, including adapting models for task-specific methodology, accounting for environmental factors influencing aesthetics, the lack of substantial datasets with appropriate labels, imbalanced data, preserving image aspect ratio and integrity in network architecture design, and the need for explainable AI to understand the causative factors behind aesthetic judgments.
Exact Trajectory Similarity Search With N-tree: An Efficient Metric Index for kNN and Range Queries
Authors: Güting Ralf Hartmut , Das Suvam Kumar , Valdés Fabio , Ray Suprio
Published: February 2025

Similarity search is the problem of finding in a collection of objects those that are similar to a given query object. It is a fundamental problem in modern applications and the objects considered may be as diverse as locations in space, text documents, images, twitter messages, or trajectories of moving objects.

In this paper we are motivated by the latter application. Trajectories are recorded movements of mobile objects such as vehicles, animals, public transportation, or parts of the human body. We propose a novel distance function called
DistanceAvg
to capture the similarity of such movements. To be practical, it is necessary to provide indexing for this distance measure.

Fortunately we do not need to start from scratch. A generic and unifying approach is metric space, which organizes the set of objects solely by a distance (similarity) function with certain natural properties. Our function
DistanceAvg
is a metric.

Although metric indexes have been studied for decades and many such structures are available, they do not offer the best performance with trajectories. In this paper we propose a new design, which outperforms the best existing indexes for
kNN
queries and is equally good for range queries. It is especially suitable for expensive distance functions as they occur in trajectory similarity search. In many applications,
kNN
queries are more practical than range queries as it may be difficult to determine an appropriate search radius. Our index provides exact result sets for the given distance function.
O mercado de idiomas: distinções e disputas pelo “global”
Authors: Meirelles Allana , Bortoli Mariana Rudge
Published: February 2025

Este artigo busca desenhar o espaço do ensino de idiomas, a partir do recorte do estado de São Paulo e de iniciativas na Internet, enfatizando as disputas entre dois principais polos: o sistema de educação formal e os meios informais de aprendizado, ligados a plataformas digitais e canais na Internet. A partir das concorrências em torno dos meios legítimos e eficazes para a obtenção da competência linguística – condição necessária à internacionalização –, tem-se como objetivo refletir sobre as lutas que envolvem os processos de transnacionalização, contrapondo-se a uma perspectiva neutralizante da tão anunciada “globalização”. Além da competição pela sobrevivência no mercado de idiomas, as instituições de ensino concorrem em termos de legitimidade e reconhecimento, mas também de eficácia, por meio de diversos fatores como o tipo de diploma oferecido, a aplicação de testes de proficiência, as ligações e/ou reconhecimento a/de órgãos governamentais, a quantidade de idiomas ensinados, entre outros.
Microcirculatory Resistance After Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Predicts Residual Myocardial Damage and Scar Formation
Authors: Candreva Alessandro , Gotschy Alexander , Stehli Julia , Bissig Lea , Lodi Rizzini Maurizio , Chiastra Claudio , Gallo Diego , Morbiducci Umberto , Klingenberg Roland , Heg Dik , Matter Christian M. , Ruschitzka Frank , Manka Robert , Stähli Barbara E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Coronary microvascular dysfunction has been associated with adverse cardiovascular events following acute myocardial infarction. This study evaluates the role of the angiography‐derived index of microcirculatory resistance (angio‐IMR) in predicting myocardial damage in patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods and Results

In this post hoc analysis of the CLEVER‐ACS (Controlled‐Level Everolimus in Acute Coronary Syndromes) trial, the associations between post‐PCI angio‐IMR of infarct‐related coronary arteries (IRAs) and infarct size, microvascular obstruction, and left ventricular ejection fraction at 30 days as assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance were investigated. High post‐PCI angio‐IMR was defined as ≥40 mm Hg*s . In non‐IRAs, angio‐IMR was measured before IRA‐PCI. A total of 52 IRAs and 94 non‐IRAs of 52 patients were analyzed. Post‐PCI angio‐IMR was 41.5 (interquartile range [IQR], 28.5–55.7) mm Hg*s  in IRAs and pre‐PCI angio‐IMR was 43.7 (IQR, 31.7–54.0) mm Hg*s in non‐IRAs (
P
=0.70). Patients with high post‐PCI angio‐IMR (52%) exhibited a larger myocardial infarct size (36.0 [IQR, 23.0–52.5] g versus 14.5 [IQR, 6.50–26.5] g,
P
<0.001) and a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (46.5% [IQR, 39.5%–49.5%] versus 55.0% [IQR, 48.0%–61.4%],
P
=0.002) at 30 days as compared with those with low post‐PCI angio‐IMR values. Post‐PCI angio‐IMR positively correlated with myocardial infarct size (r=0.45,
P
=0.001) and extent of microvascular obstruction (r=0.40,
P
=0.004) at 30 days. Post‐PCI angio‐IMR predicted myocardial infarct size (area under the curve, 0.78 [IQR, 0.65–0.92];
P
=0.001) and extent of microvascular obstruction (area under the curve, 0.74 [IQR, 0.60–0.89];
P
=0.009) at 30 days.

Conclusions

In patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction, post‐PCI angio‐IMR was identified as independent predictor of myocardial infarct size and extent of microvascular obstruction.

Registration

URL: https://
clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT01529554.
Dietary Cholesterol and Myocardial Infarction in the Million Veteran Program
Authors: Nguyen Xuan‐Mai T. , Li Yanping , Nyaeme Mark S. , Panigrahy Neha , Houghton Serena , Ivey Kerry L. , Shiekh Shamlan , Willett Walter C. , Hu Frank B. , Gaziano J. Michael , Wilson Peter W. F. , Cho Kelly , Djousse Luc ,   the VA Million Veteran Program
Published: February 2025

Background

Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Coronary artery disease can lead to major complications including myocardial infarction (MI). The association of dietary cholesterol with coronary artery disease remains inconsistent. We examined the relation of dietary cholesterol with the incidence of MI among participants of the Million Veteran Program.

Methods and Results

The Million Veteran Program is a prospective cohort database collecting genetic and nongenetic factors influencing chronic diseases. We analyzed data from 180 156 veterans with complete information on relevant dietary intake. The association between dietary cholesterol and MI risk was assessed using both linear and nonlinear models. Statistical significance was determined using the Wald test for linear trends and the likelihood ratio test for nonlinearity, alongside comparisons between high (≥300 mg/d) and low (<300 mg/d) cholesterol intake groups. In this study of 180 156 veterans with mean follow‐up of 3.5 years, we observed a linear, dose–response association between dietary cholesterol intake and risk of MI, with every 100‐mg/d increment in cholesterol intake associated with a 5% higher MI risk (relative risk [RR], 1.05 [95% CI, 1.02–1.08]). Subjects consuming >300 mg/d of cholesterol had a 15% increased MI risk compared with those consuming less (RR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.06–1.25]).

Conclusions

We found that dietary cholesterol intake was linearly associated with greater risk of MI. These findings contribute to the growing literature highlighting the impact dietary cholesterol has on cardiovascular health. Reductions in cholesterol intake, which can be achieved by decreasing the intake of meat and eggs, may reduce the risk of incident MI.
Outcomes and Disease Management in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation ≥80 Years: Data From a Consecutive 11‐Year Real‐World Registry
Authors: Yildirim Mustafa , Milles Barbara Ruth , Hund Hauke , Biener Moritz , Müller‐Hennessen Matthias , Frey Norbert , Katus Hugo A. , Giannitsis Evangelos , Salbach Christian
Published: February 2025

Background

As the population ages, atrial fibrillation (AF) prevalence increases, but data on optimal oral anticoagulation (OAC) in patients ≥80 years remain limited. This study tested whether direct OACs offer comparable benefits to vitamin K antagonists in patients ≥80 years with AF presenting to the emergency department.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective all‐comer study used data from the Heidelberg Registry of Atrial Fibrillation, including patients with AF presenting to the emergency department of the University Hospital of Heidelberg from June 2009 until March 2020. Data were analyzed by age for outcomes and risk factors for predefined end points.

Results

Patients ≥80 years comprised 32.2% of AF cases. Hazard ratios (HRs) for the primary end point (all‐cause mortality, stroke, or myocardial infarction) and secondary end point (including major bleeding) were 3.09 (95% CI, 2.73–3.21) and 2.96 (95% CI, 2.73–3.21) for patients ≥80 years, compared with younger patients. Anticoagulation rates were slightly lower in patients ≥80 years (67.9% versus 70.5%,
P
=0.0070). OAC use, particularly the use of direct OACs, increased over time. Patients ≥80 years without OACs had higher HRs for primary (3.48 [95% CI, 3.07–3.94]) and secondary end points (3.23 [95% CI, 2.86–3.64]) compared with those with OACs. Vitamin K antagonist use was linked to higher HR for stroke or major bleeding events (HR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.05–1.50]), rising to 1.64 (95% CI, 1.34–2.01) after excluding reduced direct OAC doses.

Conclusions

Our data highlight patients ≥80 years as an important and vulnerable subpopulation of patients with AF, where evidence for optimal OAC therapy remains conflicting.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT05995561.
Skeletal Muscle Pathology in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Its Contribution to Exercise Intolerance
Authors: Menezes Thaís C. F. , Lee Michael H. , Fonseca Balladares Dara C. , Nolan Kevin , Sharma Sankalp , Kumar Rahul , Ferreira Eloara V. M. , Graham Brian B. , Oliveira Rudolf K. F.
Published: February 2025

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a disease of the pulmonary vasculature, resulting in elevated pressure in the pulmonary arteries and disrupting the physiological coordination between the right heart and the pulmonary circulation. Exercise intolerance is one of the primary symptons of pulmonary arterial hypertension, significantly impacting the quality of life. The pathophysiology of exercise intolerance in pulmonary arterial hypertension is complex and likely multifactorial. Although the significance of right ventricle impairment and perfusion/ventilation mismatch is widely acknowledged, recent studies suggest pathophysiology of the skeletal muscle contributes to reduced exercise capacity in pulmonary arterial hypertension, a concept explored herein.
Comparative Outcomes of Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Receptor Agonists to Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors in Patients With Heart Failure and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kishimori Takefumi , Kato Takao , Wada Atsuyuki , Tani Akira , Yamaji Ryosuke , Koike Jumpei , Iwasaki Yoshihiro , Matsumoto Takehiro , Yagi Takafumi , Okada Masaharu
Published: February 2025

Background

Clinical trials showed that glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP1‐RA) significantly improved the control of diabetes and reduced body weight compared with dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor (DPP‐4i). However, it is unclear whether GLP1‐RA is effective compared with DPP‐4i in patients with heart failure (HF) with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of GLP1‐RA compared with DPP‐4i in all‐cause death and hospitalization in patients with HF and T2D.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective observational study using TriNetX, a global health care data and analytics platform, included patients with HF and T2D who had received GLP1‐RA or DPP‐4i from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022. Primary outcome was 12‐month incidence of all‐cause death. Secondary outcome was hospitalization. We used odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs to evaluate outcome measures.

Results

Among 1 005 097 patients with HF and T2D, 57 965 initiated GLP1‐RA and 77 098 initiated DPP‐4i. After propensity score matching, the number of participants in both the GLP1‐RA group and the DPP‐4i group was 36 557. The proportion of 12‐month incidence of all‐cause death was lower in the GLP1‐RA group than in the DPP‐4i group (5.9% [2140/36 557] versus 8.5% [3103/36 557]; OR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.63–0.71]).The proportion of 12‐month incidence of hospitalization was also lower in the GLP1‐RA group than in the DPP‐4i group (42.3% [15 455/36 557] versus 48.5% [17 733/36 557]; OR, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.76–0.80]).

Conclusions

Use of GLP1‐RA for patients with HF and T2D was associated with reduced 12‐month incidence of all‐cause death and hospitalization compared with DPP‐4i.
Silent Myocardial Infarction and Risk of Stroke Recurrence: A Post Hoc Analysis of the IRIS Trial
Authors: Ridha Mohamed , Zhang Cenai , McCullough Stephen , Viscoli Catherine M. , Sharma Richa , Kamel Hooman , Merkler Alexander E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Unrecognized or silent myocardial infarction (MI) detected on an ECG is associated with first‐ever stroke, but the impact on stroke recurrence is unknown. We aimed to determine the association of silent MI with stroke recurrence in patients with a recent ischemic stroke.

Methods and Results

Subjects from the IRIS (Insulin Resistance Intervention After Stroke) trial with an available ECG were included. Clinical MI was defined as a history of hospitalization for MI. Silent MI was defined as ECG evidence of MI in the absence of clinical MI. The primary outcome was recurrent stroke. Ischemic stroke and subtype were assessed as secondary outcomes. Multivariable Cox regression analysis adjusted for demographics, pioglitazone, and vascular risk factors was used to examine the association between MI and stroke recurrence. A total of 2282 participants met the inclusion criteria. Clinical and silent MI were identified in 161 (7.1%) and 94 (4.1%) subjects, respectively. Over the study period, 209 recurrent strokes occurred, with 191 classified as ischemic. In the fully adjusted model, silent MI was significantly associated with any stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 2.29 [95% CI, 1.34–3.90]) and ischemic stroke (HR, 2.09 [95% CI, 1.18–3.70]) recurrence. Clinical MI was associated with stroke recurrence in the unadjusted analysis but not in the fully adjusted model (HR, 1.31 [95% CI, 0.81–2.11]). Silent MI was not associated with potential cardioembolic subtypes (HR, 1.50 [95% CI, 0.70–3.22]).

Conclusions

Among patients with a recent ischemic stroke, silent MI was associated with stroke recurrence. Tailored prevention strategies in this population warrant future investigation.

Registration

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique Identifier: NCT00091949.
Bempedoic Acid for Prevention of Cardiovascular Events in People With Obesity: A CLEAR Outcomes Subset Analysis
Authors: Bays Harold E. , Bloedon LeAnne , Brennan Danielle , Lei Lei , Lincoff A. Michael , Nicholls Stephen J. , Plutzky Jorge , Powell Heather A. , Nissen Steven E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Obesity and hypercholesterolemia independently increase cardiovascular disease risk. This analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of bempedoic acid in people with obesity participating in the CLEAR (Cholesterol Lowering via Bempedoic Acid [ECT1002], an ACL‐Inhibiting Regimen) Outcomes trial.

Methods

CLEAR Outcomes randomized 13 970 patients to daily bempedoic acid 180 mg or placebo. Exploratory outcomes including major adverse cardiovascular events‐4 (cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, hs‐CRP (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein), weight change, and safety were assessed over a median of 40.7 months in 6177 patients with baseline body mass index ≥30 kg/m
2
.

Results

In people with obesity, bempedoic acid resulted in placebo‐corrected reductions in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol of −22.5% and hs‐CRP of −23.2% at 6 months. Bempedoic acid treatment resulted in a major adverse cardiovascular events‐4 reduction of 23% (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77 [95% CI, 0.67–0.89]) versus placebo. Nonfatal and fatal MI were reduced by 32% (HR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.53–0.86]), coronary revascularization was reduced by 24% (HR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.63–0.92]), and fatal and nonfatal stroke were reduced by 36% (HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.45–0.89]) compared with placebo. At month 36, mean±SD change in weight from baseline was −2.3 (6.3) kg for bempedoic acid and −1.4 (6.1) kg for placebo. Adverse events were reported in 87.4% of bempedoic acid patients and 86.7% of placebo patients. The mean±SD change in uric acid at 6 months was 0.81 (1.26) mg/dL for bempedoic acid versus −0.04 (1.05) mg/dL for placebo.

Conclusions

Among people with obesity, bempedoic acid reduced major adverse cardiovascular events, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and hs‐CRP, with a safety profile consistent with previous reports.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT02993406.
Which Matters More for Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest Survival: Witnessed Arrest or Bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation?
Authors: Fan Cheng‐Yi , Liang Ya‐Ting , Huang Edward Pei‐Chuan , Chen Jiun‐Wei , Chiang Wen‐Chu , Wang Charlotte , Sung Chih‐Wei
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite the well‐known importance of witnessed arrest and bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest outcomes, previous studies have shown significant statistical inconsistencies. We hypothesized an interaction effect and conducted stratified analyses to investigate whether witnessed arrest is more important than bystander CPR.

Methods

This study enrolled patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest between January 2010 and December 2022 in 3 emergency medical service (systems in Taiwan). Data were extracted from emergency medical service dispatch reports, including patient characteristics, witnessed arrest, bystander CPR, time for each dispatch, and prehospital interventions. The outcome measure was prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Patients were categorized into 4 groups: witnessed and bystander CPR present (W+B+), witnessed present but bystander CPR absent (W+B−), witnessed absent but bystander CPR present (W−B+), and witnessed and bystander CPR absent (W−B−). Multiple logistic regression on prehospital ROSC were performed in the 4 subgroups separately.

Results

A total of 14 737 patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest were identified, of whom 977 (6.6%) achieved prehospital ROSC. The W+B+ group exhibited the highest prehospital ROSC rate (14.0%). Stratification confirmed a statistically significant interaction between witnessed arrest and bystander CPR. Defibrillation, endotracheal intubation, and epinephrine administration were significantly associated with prehospital ROSC in all subgroups. Most explanatory variables significant in the witnessed arrest group were adjusted for in the nonwitnessed arrest group. Younger age was associated with prehospital ROSC only in the W+B+ group.

Conclusions

Witnessed arrest and bystander CPR may interact to predict prehospital ROSC in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, with witnessed arrest likely having more significant impact on outcomes.
Association Between Inflammatory Arthritis, Genetic Risk, and the Long‐Term Risk of Degenerative Aortic Stenosis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Peng Baohua , Zha Lihuang , Juaiti Mukamengjiang , Lin Wenchao , Zhou Xinyi , Ou Ziwei , Zhang Mengqiu , Yu Zaixin , Tang Yiyang
Published: February 2025

Background

Inflammatory arthritis is recognized to increase cardiovascular disease risk, but its association with degenerative aortic stenosis is not well understood.

Methods

This prospective cohort study used participants from the UK Biobank, focusing on 4 major types of inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. The primary outcome was the incidence of degenerative aortic stenosis. The primary analysis used Cox proportional hazards models to evaluate the association between inflammatory arthritis and the long‐term risk of degenerative aortic stenosis, as well as to explore potential effect modifiers. Genetic risk was evaluated using polygenic risk scores and self‐reported family history of cardiovascular diseases.

Results

The study included 497 567 participants, with 271 129 women (54.5%) and 468 015 White individuals (94.1%). The median age was 58 years. Over a median follow‐up of 12.58 years, 4571 cases (0.9%) of degenerative aortic stenosis were identified. Compared with the control group, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout were associated with increased risks of degenerative aortic stenosis by 54% (hazard ratio [HR], 1.54 [95% CI, 1.28–1.85]), 72% (HR, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.19–2.50]), 176% (HR, 2.76 [95% CI, 1.43–5.32]), and 36% (HR, 1.36 [95% CI, 1.20–1.54]), respectively. These associations were independent of genetic risk (
P
for interaction>0.05). Additionally, we identified significant interactions between sex (
P
for interaction=0.036), age (
P
for interaction<0.001), and socioeconomic status (
P
for interaction=0.014) with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout on the incidence of degenerative aortic stenosis, respectively.

Conclusions

Inflammatory arthritis is significantly associated with an increased long‐term risk of degenerative aortic stenosis, underscoring the need for enhanced risk assessment for degenerative aortic stenosis in these populations.
The Politics of Regional International Organizations
Authors: Besson Samantha
Published: February 2025

International lawyers can no longer afford to ignore the growth of regional orderings under the umbrella of international law and their political consequences. There are, the author argues, at least two concerns rio s may help us address when thinking about the future of the international institution of (States) peoples and organising it to secure more political legitimacy: sovereignty and democracy. With respect to sovereignty qua ultimate political authority, first, rio s enable us to consider the virtues of multiple and shared external sovereignty in international relations and the possibility of a regional ordering of dispersed sovereignty as a shield to protect the same albeit multiply reinstituted peoples qua publics against domination, and this both inside their States and in their international relations. Second, with respect to democracy, rio s enable us to approach international democracy, and especially international democratic representation, in a pluralistic albeit systemic way: peoples may be reinstituted into different publics by multiple institutions over time, such as their States, but also by one or more rio s in their region, and giving those representative institutions a role in international law-making could strengthen political equality by compensating demographic and power imbalances between States while also requiring those rio s to become more egalitarian and accountable in return.
Chest Radiograph Utilization Among Children Treated for Pneumonia in a Primary Care Network
Authors: Hirsch Alexander W. , Hatoun Jonathan , Vernacchio Louis , Patane Laura , Lipsett Susan C. , D’Ambrosi Gabrielle , Monuteaux Michael C. , Neuman Mark I.
Published: February 2025

This retrospective cohort study across 77 pediatric practices in Massachusetts assessed the frequency of CXR utilization among children with pneumonia diagnosed in the primary care setting and determined whether CXR utilization was associated with differences in antibiotic treatment and outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between CXR performance and future clinic revisit, CXR performance, antibiotic change, and a composite treatment failure outcome, adjusting for markers of illness severity. Among 29 528 children treated for pneumonia, 2462 (10.1%) had a CXR performed. CXR utilization varied by practice (range 0%-75% [IQR 2.7%-16.5%]). The odds of a composite outcome of treatment failure did not differ between children who had a CXR performed and those who did not (aOR 1.06; 95% CI [0.68, 1.65]). CXR was performed in the minority of patients diagnosed with pneumonia. Children who had a CXR performed had similar outcomes to those treated for pneumonia without CXR.
Individualized Occupational Therapy in Severe Mental Illness—A Recovery Model Approach from a Tertiary care Centre in South India
Authors: George Joseph Rachna , James Farah CJ , Ninan Elizabeth , Rachana Arun , Kurian Suja
Published: February 2025

Background:

The Recovery Model for mental illness explores a broad range of domains for individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) which is not merely the absence from illness but attaining self-sufficiency. The individualized occupational therapy intervention which is part of the recovery model approach includes any or a combination of trainings like Social Skills training, Vocational training, Assertiveness training, Anger Management training, Life Skills training, Stress Management, Study Skills training, Cognitive retraining and Anxiety management.

Aims:

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness in terms of functioning of individuals with (SMI) who had undergone individualized OT intervention.

Method:

Patients who had undergone individualized OT intervention were evaluated at designated time points i.e. at discharge, at 3 months and further at 6 months. The outcome measure of functional capacity was scored using the Global Assessment of Functioning instrument.

Result:

A total of 31 patients were sampled. The diagnosis of Schizophrenia was seen in 77.4% ( n-24) of the sample, Bipolar Affective Disorder in 12.9% ( n-4) and Schizoaffective Disorder 9.7% ( n-3). The mean GAF for the sample showed improvement and the increment in GAF was maintained on follow up.

Conclusions:

In services with limited skilled human resources and where community-based services are not established, culturally adapted interventions with individualized OT interventions can ensure positive gains in terms of socio-occupational functioning.
Beyond the Veil of Death: Evolving Traditions in the Ancestral Rituals of the Irula Tribe of Attapadi, South India
Authors: K R Sreehari , Kasi Eswarappa
Published: February 2025

The Irula, a Dravidian ethnic group, reside in the Nilgiri Mountains of the Western Ghats, spread across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, India. It is the fifth-largest tribe in Kerala. Each tribe has unique cultural practices and beliefs; the Irulas are no exception. The Irulas observe distinct rituals during crucial life events, particularly death ceremonies. Death, marking the cessation of an organism’s independent existence and its return to a nonliving state, is observed by the Irulas in a unique ceremony known as cheeru and an annual feast ceremony for the ancestors known as Kanji Seeru. This paper aims to delve into the underlying practices of the Irula death ceremony and the associated ritualistic practices and the transformation of traditional practices are also enquired based on empirical research. The research adopts a qualitative methodology, with primary data gathered through ethnographic fieldwork and the secondary data is collected from the published sources.
Simulation of fiber arrangement based on the properties of sliver irregularity
Authors: Shen Yuanying , Ji Zhiqiang , Zhang Mei , Qian Xixi , Shang Shanshan , Niu Chuanwen
Published: February 2025

The study of fiber arrangement in a sliver is of great significance for predicting yarn quality, optimizing spinning processes, and promoting innovations in spinning technology. At present, most fiber arrangement models are based on the ideal sliver, which is not connected with the irregularity characteristics of the actual sliver, so that the simulated sliver is very different from the actual sliver. In this study, a simple, universal, and more accurate fiber arrangement model is proposed. In the simulation, the irregular arrangement of the left ends of the fibers is further considered; this is related to the total irregularity and structural irregularity of the actual sliver. In addition, the accuracy of the simulated sliver was evaluated using various indexes, including total irregularity, sliver structure irregularity, and sliver linear density fluctuation range. The results show that the fiber arrangement model proposed in this paper is close to the actual sliver, not only in terms of total irregularity but also in terms of the structural irregularity. The difference between the two is less than 5%, indicating that the fiber arrangement model proposed in this paper is close to the actual fiber arrangement in the sliver. Moreover, compared with other existing fiber arrangement models, it is found that this model can significantly improve the description accuracy of fiber arrangement in fiber assembly, especially for slivers and rovings. Therefore, the establishment of this model can provide a basis for the accurate prediction of spinning quality and intelligent development of spinning processing.
Editor-in-Chief of Criminal Justice and Behavior: A Reflection
Authors: Morgan Robert D.
Published: February 2025

Serving as Editor-in-Chief and contributing to the 50-year success of Criminal Justice and Behavior was a rewarding experience, and one for which I will always be proud. In this essay, I was asked to reflect on my experience, including research that I believed was most impactful, lessons learned, the future of Criminal Justice and Behavior, and the uniqueness of Criminal Justice and Behavior. As noted in this essay, I am proud of the accomplishments of my editorial team for continuing Criminal Justice and Behavior on a positive trajectory, and for the scientific contributions we published to serve the greater field. Criminal Justice and Behavior is well positioned to continue to serve the unique needs of correctional and forensic mental health professionals, and I believe it remains one of the premier journals for all professionals working in the criminal legal and forensic mental health sectors.
Pre-Service Special Education Teachers’ Perceptions of Applying Technologies in Education
Authors: Vellonen Virpi , Sointu Erkko , Valtonen Teemu , Tukiainen Markku
Published: February 2025

The role of technology in special education is of great significance, yet few studies have targeted pre-service special education teachers as users of educational technology. The aim was to explore such teachers’ technology perceptions: (a) purposes of and reasons for applying technologies in education; (b) factors they see affecting the use of technology in education; and (c) how these perceptions evolved between 2017 ( N = 111) and 2022 ( N = 86). The perceptions of students in two cohorts were investigated with quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative results indicated that students’ perceptions of applying technologies for various educational purposes became more positive in the 2022 cohort. All students saw multiple factors affecting the use of technology in education. Qualitative results showed students’ multiple considerations regarding both educational purposes and advancing factors. The results suggest that teacher training should provide knowledge, examples and authentic learning experiences with different technologies for the purposes of special education.
Investigation of wear performance of R260 and R350HT rails after vibratory peening and ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification
Authors: Karademir Ibrahim , Neccaroglu Vahap , Karamanli Ismail Aykut , Das Turan , Efe Yusuf , Unal Okan
Published: February 2025

In this study, the effects of ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) and severe vibratory peening (SVP) of R260 and R350HT rail steels were investigated. The surface treatments resulted effective grain size reduction in the surface layers. While surface roughness decreased due to UNSM, SVP generally increased surface roughness. SVP demonstrated a significant effect on the microhardness. While the microhardness of the untreated sample was around 320 HV, the microhardness of R350HT peened for 4 h and 10 h increased to 390 and 470 HV, respectively. The UNSM treated specimens showed significant improvements, especially in surface roughness, which improved the wear performance. SVP treated specimens showed significant improvements in friction and wear performance due to the improvement on microhardness.
Effect of strain rate on dynamic softening behaviour and texture orientation of Ti55511 alloy deformed in single-phase region
Authors: Dong Yue , Liu Xingang , Niu Haozhe , Gu Dapeng , Zhang Wenwen
Published: February 2025

The influence of strain rate on dynamic softening and texture orientation of Ti55511 in the β single-phase region are investigated. Hot compression experiments were enforced at 880–920°C, strain rates of 0.001–1 s−1 and the strain of 0.60. The continuous dynamic recrystallization mainly happens at 0.001–0.01 s−1, which is generated by the progressive rotation of the subgrain orientation, and accompanied by discontinuous dynamic recrystallization that is generated by the strain induced boundary migration. DDRX grains with HAGB migration nucleation bulge are produced at higher strain rates of 0.1–1 s−1. DRV is the main deformation mechanism. The DRX nucleation mechanism corresponding to different strain rates plays an important effect on the type and intensity of β texture. The {111}//Z texture consumed by recrystallized grains gradually transforms to {110}//Z and {100}//Z textures at a low strain rate, leading to the diminishment of {111}//Z texture strength slightly. Meanwhile, {110} <1-1x> and cube texture {100} <001> occur to transform with the increasing strain rate. The degree of plastic deformation of <111> and <110> grains is larger and the degree of CDRX is higher. The {110} <111> slip system can accelerate the drastic dislocation interaction to turn <111> soft orientation to <100> hard orientation.
Lessons from Wörgl: Key considerations for the continuation of an economic “miracle”
Authors: September Jeremy
Published: February 2025

The Wörgl Experiment that took place in the Austrian town of Wörgl has long been celebrated as an economic miracle as the town experienced a remarkable economic revival amidst the Great Depression that drew attention from around the world. Community currency (CC) advocates often tout the experiment as a prime example of the socio-economic impact that CCs can have at the local level. However, despite its success, the Wörgl Experiment was short lived due to being shut down by the Austrian Central Bank. Consequently, questions regarding its unfulfilled potential remain. This paper conducts a detailed analysis of the experiment and uncovers what would have been two key considerations for the experiment’s continued success. The first key consideration would have been the labor certificates convertibility with, and therefore their potential substitutability and competition with the Austrian Schilling. This reframes the current understanding of the Wörgl Experiment as the amount of labor certificates redeemed for Austrian Schillings and its implications have not been discussed in the literature. The second key consideration would have been maintaining demand for the labor certificates in the face of dwindling tax arrears. Implications of these considerations for the broader field of CCs are discussed.
Assessment of collateral circulation in patients with anterior circulation stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy as a predictor of long-term clinical outcomes
Authors: Bąk Marcin , Antończak Justyna , Frąszczak Michał , Leus Marcin , Mazgaj Maciej , Gawłowicz Jacek , Pietura Radosław
Published: February 2025

Background

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is the most effective treatment for large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke. Despite this treatment, clinical outcomes are highly variable.

Purpose

To evaluate the role of collateral circulation in patients undergoing MT as a determinant of clinical outcome, especially in the long term.

Material and Methods

The study included 80 patients who underwent MT for LVO of the anterior cerebral circulation. Patient data were collected on demographics, baseline neurological status, imaging studies (including ASPECTS and collateral circulation score), and clinical status of the patients as determined by NIHSS at discharge and by modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

Patients with good collateral circulation were compared to the group with poor collateral circulation: they had significantly lower NIHSS at 24 h (median NIHSS 8 vs. 16; P < 0.001) and at the time of discharge (median NIHSS 3.5 vs. 13; P < 0.001). At 3 months, patients with good collateral circulation had a significantly higher chance of achieving a good functional outcome (mRS = 0–2) (62.75% vs. 10.34%; P < 0.001) and had a lower mortality (13.73% vs. 41.38%; P = 0.005). The benefits of good collateral circulation extended into the long term. At 12 months, patients with good collateral circulation were significantly more likely to have good functional outcome (mRS = 0–2) (60.78% vs. 10.34%; P < 0.001) and lower mortality (19.61% vs. 44.83%; P = 0.017).

Conclusion

Good collateral circulation increases the likelihood of favorable outcome in MT-treated stroke patients at discharge, 3 months, and 12 months.
Nonobstructive gastroduodenal intussusception characterized by severe anemia: a case report
Authors: Zhu Benlei , Wang Congming , Fu Jingwei
Published: February 2025

Gastroduodenal intussusception is a relatively rare condition in adults and is typically caused by mobile pedunculated submucosal tumors arising from the stomach. Its clinical presentation often includes nonspecific signs of gastric outlet obstruction, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, epigastric fullness, or abdominal distention. We report a case of gastroduodenal intussusception in a 38-year-old woman who presented with severe anemia but no symptoms of gastric outlet obstruction. The preoperative diagnosis was established through esophagogastroduodenoscopy and computed tomography of the abdomen, and it was confirmed during surgery. Postoperative pathology and immunohistochemistry identified the tumor as a gastric leiomyoma.
Refractory cardiogenic shock in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy complicated by apical ballooning: A case report
Authors: Strycek Matej , Polasek Rostislav , Tomasov Pavol , Karasek Jiri
Published: February 2025

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can be accompanied by dynamic obstruction in the left ventricular outflow tract and acute apical ballooning, which are among the very rare causes of cardiogenic shock. This condition requires a specific treatment approach that in many ways differs from the treatment of other causes of cardiogenic shock. We present a case and our treatment strategy (including extracorporeal life support) for refractory cardiogenic shock in a patient with previously undiagnosed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
‘Jacob, my father’: The character of Judah in the Joseph Novella (Gen. 37–50)
Authors: Ficco Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

This paper focuses on the remarkable journey of Judah’s character in the Joseph Novella (Gen. 37–50), by paying special attention to Judah’s two speeches in Gen. 44 (vv. 16 and 18–34). Facing the Egyptian vizier, Judah speaks on behalf of his brothers, confesses his guilt, manifests a surprising theological understanding of the circumstances in which he is living (v. 16), and tries to move Joseph to compassion (vv. 18–34). Through his words, Judah shows that he really is changed, because Jacob’s predilection for his beloved wife Rachel and for her two sons (v. 27) cannot erase the bond with his father, particularly evident thanks to the numerous repetitions of the expression ‘my father’ in vv. 24–34. The complex speeches in Gen. 44, thus, demonstrate that Judah’s evolution as a character leads him to understand God’s interventions in the history of his family, and that the recovery of his filial identity is an important part of this process.
The Effect of Concavity Restoration on Glenohumeral Stability in a Glenoid Bone Loss Model: Comparing Distal Tibial Allograft Reconstruction to Classic Latarjet
Authors: Fury Matthew S. , Cirino Carl M. , Jahandar Amirhossein , Rauck Ryan C. , Gulotta Lawrence V. , Dines David M. , Dines Joshua S. , Blaine Theodore A. , Fu Michael C. , Warren Russell F. , Kontaxis Andreas , Taylor Samuel A.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Distal tibial allograft (DTA) reconstruction for glenoid bone loss (GBL) has gained popularity. While recent studies have demonstrated that glenoid concavity is an important factor in native glenohumeral stability, there remains a paucity of data regarding concavity restoration during reconstructive procedures for GBL and its biomechanical effect.

Purpose:

To compare the restoration of anterior glenohumeral stability and glenoid concavity after DTA and classic Latarjet procedures.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Nine human cadaveric specimens (mean age, 62.2 years; range, 52-69 years) underwent pretesting computed tomography (CT) to assess native glenoid concavity as determined by the glenoid depth and bony shoulder stability ratio (BSSR). GBL was created so the DTA and Latarjet graft could restore 100% of the native glenoid width. The rotator cuff tendons were loaded, and anterior stability testing was performed using a KUKA robot to apply a controlled anterior force with the shoulder in 90° of abduction and neutral external rotation. A motion capture system recorded humeral head translation. The following conditions were tested: intact, soft tissue Bankart lesion; bone loss model with DTA reconstruction; classic Latarjet procedure without conjoint tendon loaded; and classic Latarjet procedure with conjoint tendon loaded (sling effect). All specimens underwent posttesting CT to measure the BSSR of the DTA and Latarjet reconstructions. A repeated-measures analysis of variance was performed to compare the BSSR and anterior translations between the DTA and Latarjet reconstructions.

Results:

DTA produced greater concavity than the Latarjet procedure (BSSR: 0.45 vs 0.35; P < .001). There was no difference in anterior translation between the DTA and Latarjet procedures with the sling effect (5.1 mm vs 4.7 mm; P > .999). However, maximum anterior translation was decreased after the DTA procedure when compared with the Latarjet technique without the sling effect (5.1 mm vs 10.3 mm; P = .045).

Conclusion:

DTA produces a more concave reconstruction and decreased anterior translation compared with the flatter reconstruction produced by the classic Latarjet procedure without the sling effect. DTA and the classic Latarjet procedure with conjoint tendon loading, however, yielded equivalent reductions in anterior translation.

Clinical Relevance:

Distal tibial allograft reconstruction is a biomechanically equivalent alternative to the classic Latarjet due to the restoration of glenoid concavity in addition to glenoid width. Surgeons should consider the role of concavity when addressing glenohumeral instability with bone loss.