bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrocardiographic findings and prognostic values in patients hospitalised with COVID-19 in the World Heart Federation Global Study
Authors: Pinto-Filho Marcelo Martins , Paixão Gabriela Miana , Gomes Paulo Rodrigues , Soares Carla P M , Singh Kavita , Rossi Valentina Alice , Thienemann Friedrich , Viljoen Charle , Mohan Bishav , Sarrafzadegan Nizal , Chowdhury Abdul Wadud , Ntusi Ntobeko , Deora Surender , Perel Pablo , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Sliwa Karen , Ribeiro Antonio Luiz Pinho
Published: November 2022

Background

COVID-19 affects the cardiovascular system and ECG abnormalities may be associated with worse prognosis. We evaluated the prognostic value of ECG abnormalities in individuals with COVID-19.

Methods

Multicentre cohort study with adults hospitalised with COVID-19 from 40 hospitals across 23 countries. Patients were followed-up from admission until 30 days. ECG were obtained at each participating site and coded according to the Minnesota coding criteria. The primary outcome was defined as death from any cause. Secondary outcomes were admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the association of ECG abnormalities with the outcomes.

Results

Among 5313 participants, 2451 had at least one ECG and were included in this analysis. The mean age (SD) was 58.0 (16.1) years, 60.7% were male and 61.1% from lower-income to middle-income countries. The prevalence of major ECG abnormalities was 21.3% (n=521), 447 (18.2%) patients died, 196 (8.0%) had MACE and 1115 (45.5%) were admitted to an ICU. After adjustment, the presence of any major ECG abnormality was associated with a higher risk of death (OR 1.39; 95% CI 1.09 to 1.78) and cardiovascular events (OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.30 to 2.51). Sinus tachycardia (>120 bpm) with an increased risk of death (OR 3.86; 95% CI 1.97 to 7.48), MACE (OR 2.68; 95% CI 1.10 to 5.85) and ICU admission OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.03 to 4.00). Atrial fibrillation, bundle branch block, ischaemic abnormalities and prolonged QT interval did not relate to the outcomes.

Conclusion

Major ECG abnormalities and a heart rate >120 bpm were prognostic markers in adults hospitalised with COVID-19.
Leprosy rash precipitated by immunotherapy for suspected inflammatory neuropathy
Authors: Leung Almond , Arnold Brendan John , Hodgson Timothy Oliver , Cutfield Nicholas John
Published: November 2022

Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infection caused byMycobacterium lepraecomplex, causing skin and nerve lesions with potential for permanent disability. Leprosy can be overlooked in Western settings, as it is more prevalent in low-income and middle-income countries. We describe a 38-year-old woman with a 4-year history of progressive numbness of the left hand incorrectly diagnosed as multifocal acquired demyelinating sensory and motor neuropathy on the basis of clinical and neurophysiological findings. Treatment with empirical weekly corticosteroid followed by intravenous immunoglobulin resulted in the sudden development of a widespread rash; we then diagnosed borderline lepromatous leprosy on skin biopsy. We postulate that the immune treatments induced a temporary state of immune tolerance followed by a rebound of a T cell-mediated immune response resulting in a type 1 immunological response.
THE EFFECT OF SOLAR RADIATION PRESSURE AND PLANET OBLATENESS ON THE LOCATION AND STABILITY OF LAGRANGIAN POINTS IN SOLAR SYSTEM PLANETS
Authors: AMIN MOHAMED R.
Published: November 2022

The combined effect of the solar radiation pressure and the oblateness of the planets on the position and stability of the Lagrangian points within the restricted elliptic three-body problem was studied. We found that the solar radiation pressure and planet oblateness slightly changed the location of the Lagrangian points. New formulas for the location of the collinear points using the Lagrange inversion method were introduced. For large values of the force ratio B; the ratio between the solar radiation force and the gravitational attraction force due to the Sun; we found that the collinear point [Formula: see text] is stable.
Geometrothermodynamic approach in econophysics
Authors: Quevedo Hernando , Quevedo María N.
Published: November 2022

The formalism of geometrothermodynamics has been developed to describe the properties of thermodynamic systems in terms of concepts of differential geometry. On the other hand, in econophysics, it is argued that under certain conditions the behavior of economic systems can be described by using the laws of classical thermodynamics. These two results are used in this work to propose a geometric description of economic systems. We obtain as a result that most systems can be described by two different geometries corresponding to the Boltzmann–Gibbs and Pareto distributions, which represent two different population groups that are usually present in most economic systems. The geometrothermodynamic analysis shows that no phase transitions are present in the Boltzmann–Gibbs sector, whereas the Pareto sector is characterized by a strong thermodynamic interaction that leads to the appearance of a rich phase transition structure. We argue that those phase transitions could be interpreted as financial crises.
Stratified Bioconvective Jet Flow of Williamson Nanofluid in Porous Medium in the Presence of Arrhenius Activation Energy
Authors: Puneeth V. , Manjunatha S. , Anwar M. Shoaib , Oreijah Mowffaq , Geudri Kamel , Bafakeeh Omar T. , Galal Ahmed M.
Published: November 2022

Due to the higher coefficients of heat and mass transfer, the jet flow has become an effective source for the transfer of heat and mass in various industries. Due to these high coefficients, the heat and mass transfer rates will be high in the appliances equipped with the jet flow. Further, the existence of the magnetic field helps in controlling the velocity and the presence of the gyrotactic microorganisms ensure proper mixing of nanoparticles. A dilute nanoparticle suspension is assumed so that it will not affect the movement of motile cells that leads to bioconvection. Hence, this paper aims to analyze the characteristics of heat transfer as well as mass transfer of the jet flow of Williamson nanofluid past a porous stretching sheet in the existence of microorganisms. The mathematical model obtained as a result of these assumptions is transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations for which acceptable solutions are obtained using the numerical method. The results thus obtained are presented graphically and based on the outcomes, it is perceived that the magnetic field has control over the velocity profile thus influencing the thermal profile. The increase in the Williamson parameter also reduces the velocity of the fluid flow. Further, an increase was noticed in the thermal and concentration profiles of the nanofluid for higher values of thermophoresis parameter and the increase in the porosity reduced the speed of the flow of nanofluid.
Influence of sex on global myocardial ischemia tolerance and mitochondrial function in circulatory death donor hearts
Authors: Chen Qun , Akande Oluwatoyin , Lesnefsky Edward J. , Quader Mohammed
Published: November 2022

The current study shows cardiac injury is not increased in female DCD hearts following global ischemia-reperfusion compared with male DCD hearts. In addition, mitochondrial dysfunction with DCD ischemia-reperfusion is comparable in both sexes. Sex-specific immune responses and hormone receptor modulation may contribute to suboptimal outcomes in male HTx recipients with female donor hearts.
Establishment of Quality Evaluation Method for Yinqiao Powder: A Herbal Formula against COVID-19 in China
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Xu Lin , Song Jian , Zhang Aijun , Zhang Xiao , Li Qingjun , Qu Xinyan , Wang Ping
Published: November 2022

Yinqiao powder, with significant anti‐inflammatory and antiviral effects, is a classical formula for the treatment of febrile diseases in China. During the SARS period in 2003, Yinqiao powder showed a good antipyretic effect. It also plays a major role in the treatment for COVID-19 in China. Although there are many studies on the chemical compositions and pharmacological effects of Yinqiao powder, there are few studies on the quality standard system of it. In our study, a systematic quality evaluation method of Yinqiao powder combining HPLC fingerprint with quantitative analysis of multi-components by single marker (QAMS) based on network pharmacology and UPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS was established for the first time. In the UPLC-Q-Exactive-Orbitrap-MS experiment, a total of 53 compounds were identified in the extract solution of Yinqiao powder. In addition, 33 blood components were characterized, 23 of which were prototypes. The results of network pharmacology analysis showed that Yinqiao powder may inhibit inflammatory responses by suppressing IL-6, CXCL2, TNFα, NF-κB, etc., in the treatment of COVID-19. The HPLC fingerprint analysis of Yinqiao powder was conducted at 237 nm and 29 characteristic peaks were matched, 11 of which were identified. Forsythoside A was selected as the internal standard reference and double-wavelength (237 nm and 327 nm) was established in QAMS experiment. The repeatability was well under different conditions, and the results measured by QAMS were consisted with that of the external standard method (ESM), indicating that the QAMS method was reliable and accurate. The quality evaluation method of Yinqiao powder would be helpful to evaluate the intrinsic quality of Yinqiao powder more comprehensively, which is conducive to improve the quality standard of Yinqiao powder and provide a beneficial guarantee for the clinical treatment of COVID-19.
An Elevated Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Poor Prognosis in Patients with Liver Cancer after Interventional Treatments
Authors: Li Xiaonan , Zhang Yongsheng , Ma Wei , Li Jingwen
Published: November 2022

This study is aimed at examining the prognostic value of blood neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Demographic and clinical data of 543 HCC patients treated with interventional therapies were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative NLRs were determined and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted for survival time in patients with high (NLR ≥3.8) and low (NLR<3.8) NLR. The median overall survival (OS) was 1241 days after interventional therapies and was significantly reduced in the high NLR group when compared to the low NLR group. The median progression‐free survival time (PFST) of patients was also significantly shorter in the high NLR group than in the low NLR group. Univariate analysis revealed that tumor type, therapy method, maximum tumor size (>3 mm), and NLR (>3.8) were risk factors for OST and PFST (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated that tumor type, maximum tumor diameter, therapy method, and NLR (>3.8) were independent risk factors for PFST (P < 0.05). Our results demonstrate that preoperative NLR has prognostic value for patients with HCC undergoing interventional therapies, and high NLR is an indication of poor prognosis.
Hypoxia-Induced miR-210 Promotes Endothelial Cell Permeability and Angiogenesis via Exosomes in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Guo , Ding Xiaojie , Quan Gang , Xiong Jianwei , Li Qiang , Li Zhonghu , Wang Yaqin
Published: November 2022

Background. Exosomes have been proven to play important diagnostic, regulatory, or communication roles in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, or metastasis; in recent studies, lots of molecules, including miRNAs, were found to be aberrantly expressed in tumor exosomes and were correlated with tumor development. However, studies about the expression, relationship, or control mechanisms of miRNAs in exosomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are scarce and urgently needed. The aim of this article was to identify and investigate abnormally expressed miRNAs in PDAC exosomes in vivo and in vitro. Methods. Microarray studies were used to detect aberrantly expressed miRNAs in PDAC exosomes, and miR-210 expression in cells or exosomes was further analyzed by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatics analyses, dual-luciferase assays, WB, and other assays were utilized to explore the miRNA molecular mechanisms. The living cell coculture model and immunofluorescence analysis were employed to image the communication between PDAC cells and endothelial cells. Other biological experiments in the study include a real-time intravital imaging system, EdU, transwell, xenograft models, and so on. Results. miR-210 is significantly expressed in PDAC exosomes and malignant cells. High miR-210 significantly facilitated tumor angiogenesis, cell invasion, and proliferation in PDAC cells. Further mechanistic detection revealed that miR-210 negatively regulated EFNA3 expression and participated in the PI3K/AKT/VEGFA or Wnt/Β-catenin/RHOA pathways, thus promoting tumor angiogenesis and cellular permeability. PDAC cells promote endothelial angiogenesis or permeability via miR-210 transmission by tumor exosomes. Exosomal miR-210 promotes PDAC progression in vivo. Further detection of PDAC plasma exosomal miR-210 suggests that exosomal miR-210 expression was high and significantly associated with vascular invasion and TNM stage and was an independent risk factor for PDAC overall survival. Conclusions. PDAC cell-secreted exosomes could promote angiogenesis and cellular permeability of neighboring endothelial angiogenesis or permeability via miR-210 transmission. Exosomal miR-210 may play important roles in tumor biology and may be a useful prognostic marker in PDAC.
Automated Mobility-on-Demand Service Improvement Strategy through Latent Class Analysis of Stated Preference Survey
Authors: Yun Jaewoong , Lee Jaehyung , Kim Jinhee
Published: November 2022

Automated driving technologies have advanced remarkably and are expected to be a part of our lives soon. Because automated driving technology does not require a driver, a significant change in future mobility services is expected. Automated driving technology is closely related to the development of public transit services as it can significantly reduce driver labor costs and provide a more comfortable in-vehicle environment. In particular, the preference for automated mobility-on-demand services that can respond in real time to the dynamic demand through automated driving technology is growing. Previous studies have compared passengers’ preferences for automated mobility-on-demand services and other transportation modes and proposed a way to enable more passengers to use automated mobility-on-demand services. However, as the number of pilot operations increases, future research will focus on ways to improve competitiveness among automated mobility-on-demand services. This study conducts a passenger preference survey based on the characteristics of automated mobility-on-demand services. In particular, changes in the in-vehicle environment and seat selection system, which differ from existing mobility-on-demand services due to automated driving technology, are investigated. The latent class modeling approach is used to classify passengers based on stated preference data collected from the survey. The estimation results show that vehicle type and seat choice system have a significant impact on passengers’ preference for automated mobility-on-demand services. In addition, considering that a high percentage of passengers do not prefer to improve autonomy in seat reservation and the in-vehicle environment, this study suggests that cost-consuming service improvement strategies are not always appropriate.
Scarring versus Non-Scarring Alopecia: An Interobserver Histopathological Reproducibility Study
Authors: Botega Amanda Araujo dos Reis , Amorim Carolina Viza , Teixeira Fernanda , Borges Figueira de Mello Cristina Diniz , Stelini Rafael Fantelli , Velho Paulo Eduardo Neves Ferreira , Cintra Maria Leticia
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Distinguishing scarring (SA) versus non-scarring alopecia (NSA) may not be a simple procedure on either clinical or histopathological views. Aims: We sought to study the interobserver variability in the histopathological assessment of SA versus NSA, including clinical-pathological considerations. Methods: Two dermatopathologists independently interpreted the same set of 100 specimens (89 patients). The samples were serial sectioned and stained by hematoxylin and eosin and Verhöeff methods. The patients’ mean age was 46 years, with 13 being males and 76 females. Results: In 16/100 samples, there was no consensus among the two examiners regarding SA versus NSA (weighted kappa = 0.6583; 95% CI); 3/16 patients were re-biopsied, and in the second sample, consensus was reached. In 76/89 patients, the anatomopathological examination was helpful in defining the SA versus NSA subtype. Of the 84 samples in which there was interobserver agreement, 4 which had been considered scarring in the routine pathological report were re-classified as non-scarring, whereas one biopsy, previously diagnosed as non-scarring, was now considered cicatricial due to the newly found areas of lichenoid inflammation in the infundibular epithelium. Discussion: The ideal scalp examination may require deep serial biopsy sectioning, elastic tissue stain, re-biopsy, and strict clinical-evolutive correlation.
Corrupção dos países e book-tax differences anormal: uma análise multinível
Authors: Silva Jéssica Rayse de Melo , Costa Patrícia de Souza , Santos Marco Aurélio dos
Published: November 2022

Esta pesquisa se propôs a investigar se a corrupção percebida, característica do ambiente institucional dos países, apresenta relação com a book-tax differences anomal (BTDA) das companhias abertas. A amostra contempla 170.543 observações, pertencentes a 99 países no período de 2012 a 2018, que foram analisadas por meio de modelagem multinível. A hipótese de pesquisa, que aborda a associação positiva entre a BTDA e a corrupção percebida dos países, não foi rejeitada para a amostra total e para o grupo de países adotantes das International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Isso sugere que para o grupo de adotantes das IFRS, a maior flexibilidade resultante da internacionalização das normas é utilizada oportunisticamente pelos gestores, que possivelmente são influenciados pela baixa qualidade do ambiente institucional em termos de corrupção. Os achados corroboram a premissa de que a baixa qualidade dos lucros das companhias está associada a maior corrupção percebida dos países. A pesquisa contribui com a literatura por trazer novas perspectivas sobre como o ambiente de negócios é afetado pelas características dos países, considerando a utilização da modelagem multinível, técnica mais acurada para amostras com estruturas agrupadas.
Climate Change Liability, Negative Emissions and Biodiversity Restoration
Authors: Brans Edward
Published: November 2022

This article is about climate liability and the stimulation of negative emissions through nature restoration. Such a measure can contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, but can also lead to a restoration of biodiversity and of ecosystem services. In order to finance measures aimed at achieving natural negative emissions, the European Commission is considering introducing a system of carbon credits as part of the ‘Fit for 55’ program. This contribution investigates the advantages and disadvantages thereof and wonders about the nature and extent of the liability risks if, for example, nature is destroyed that is financed with carbon credits and which results in the release of stored co2. In that respect, attention is given to the Environmental Liability Directive. If the stimulation of natural negative emissions is also aimed at restoring biodiversity, in the event of a loss of nature, merely recouping the market price of a ‘carbon credit’ is insufficient to compensate the public for the damage done.
Ophiocordyceps ovatospora sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales), pathogenic on termites from China
Authors: TANG DEXIANG , ZHU JUYE , LUO LIJUN , HOU DONGHAI , WANG ZHIQIN , YANG SHIDAO , YU HONG
Published: November 2022

A new species, Ophiocordyceps ovatospora, occurring on termites was collected from Yunnan Province, China, and is described based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic data. In a phylogenetic analysis of a combined dataset of multigene loci comprising the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS), the small and large subunit of the ribosomal DNA (nrSSU and nrLSU), partial sequences of elongation factor 1-alpha (tef-1a) and the largest and second largest subunit of the RNA polymerase (rpb1, rpb2), O. ovatospora was clustered together with O. khokpasiensis to form a clade separate from other species of Ophiocordyceps. Morphologically, O. ovatospora is characterized by producing pseudo-immersed perithecia, filiform asci and ascospores, monophialidic phialides, and oval conidia. Ophiocordyceps ovatospora has smaller perithecia than those of O. khokpasiensis but its asci are larger.
Subcutaneous Emphysema, Pneumothorax, Pneumomediastinum, and Pneumoperitoneum Following Synthetic Cannabinoid Toxicity in an Incarcerated Man
Authors: Gala Zachary , Kravchenko Timothy , Volk Lindsey , Chatani Praveen , Kar Reema , Choron Rachel L.
Published: November 2022

Background

Synthetic cannabinoids are a recreational drug that can cause toxicity with significant side effects.

Case

We report a 21-year-old incarcerated male with a delayed presentation of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and pneumoperitoneum following synthetic cannabinoid use with altered mental status.

Discussion

This case not only highlights the need to consider pneumothorax when evaluating synthetic cannabinoid toxicity but it also emphasizes a vulnerable population (incarcerated individuals at risk for trauma, substance use disorders, and mental illness) who are at risk for delayed medical care and poor follow-up.
Recipes for Success: Lessons learned from the implementation of a food skills and nutrition education workshop with Gaelic athletic players on the Island of Ireland (IOI)
Authors: Lydon Roisin , McCloat Amanda , Mooney Elaine , Kelly-Blakeney Eileen
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the effectiveness of a practical food skills and nutrition education workshop and investigate the attitudes towards, and knowledge of, nutrition among young amateur Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) players.

Design and method:

A quantitative study using a pre-/post-intervention study design assessed nutritional knowledge, food preparation skills, cooking skills confidence, attitudes towards nutrition, and future diet and food practices among GAA players ( n = 336) across the Island of Ireland who took part in a practical food skills and nutrition education workshop.

Findings:

The workshop was effective in improving culinary knowledge, skills and confidence. Post-session, in comparison with men, women were ‘definitely’ more confident in preparing the dish they cooked during the session ( p ⩽ .05) and in using a cooker to prepare a meal or snack ( p ⩽ .05). While nutrition knowledge improved for many participants, women knew ‘a lot’ more about the quantity of each type of food they needed to consume ( p = .013) and portion sizes ( p = .003). Most participants indicated that in the future, they were likely to try out other recipes (94%, n = 310), more likely to prepare a meal themselves (93%, n = 307) and make healthier food choices (92%, n = 304).

Originality:

Results indicate the benefits of an integrated nutrition education and food skills workshop in improving players’ knowledge of nutrition and increasing confidence in relation to food preparation and cooking. As gender differences were found across a range of key knowledge and confidence outcomes, future food and nutrition education programmes may need to be tailored to take account of this.
Examining the Use of Video Analysis on Teacher Instruction and Teacher Outcomes
Authors: Meline McKenzie , Harn Beth , Jamgochian Elisa , Stickland-Cohen M. Kathleen , Linan-Thompson Sylvia , Lucero Audrey
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the literature base of single-case research design studies using video analysis to determine its effectiveness on teacher outcomes. Primary, ancestral, citation, and first author searches identified 12,047 dissertations and peer-reviewed articles published from 2010 to 2020. Each study ( n = 24) was scored on its adherence to the What Works Clearinghouse design quality standards. A total of 16 articles were reviewed for statistical analysis, in which a between-case standardized mean difference was used to calculate effect sizes. Results indicate praise ( n = 6; g = 2.66–0.37) and implementation ( n = 6; g = 3.64–1.07) had effect sizes that continue to define video analysis as a promising practice. Recommendations for future practice include improving the methodological rigor of studies and increasing sample size to prove the generalizability of video analysis. Addressing these recommendations will support video analysis becoming an evidence-based practice (EBP) for educator development.
Political Communication as a Tragedy of the Commons
Authors: Farrer Benjamin
Published: November 2022

In this article, we argue that many contemporary challenges to democracy can be traced back to how political organizations compete for attention. We begin with the idea that these organizations appeal for attention both by mobilizing their own members, and also through media that reaches a wider audience, such as social media and mass media. But since many organizations are competing for the limited attention of this wider audience, they all have an incentive to send “too many” and “too sensational” messages. This overwhelms the audience and leads to polarization and populism. Our article describes the conditions necessary for this “tragedy of the commons” to occur and also reviews empirical evidence demonstrating that these conditions are met. We find that social media is not a necessary condition for the model, but does accelerate it. We conclude that Elinor Ostrom’s theories of the commons are important for understanding political communication.
Review on invasion of microplastic in our ecosystem and implications
Authors: Lee Minha , Kim Heejung , Ryu Han-Sun , Moon Jinah , Khant Naing Aung , Yu Chaerim , Yu Ji-Hee
Published: November 2022

Today the world is going through the “Plastic Age.” Nowadays, it is difficult to find a commonly used convenient item that is nonplastic. Plastic production and consumption, thus, increased exponentially and plastic emerged as one of the major concerns for waste management. Recent studies confirmed a faster rate of plastic degradation than previously believed under various conditions (e.g. saltwater, UV, soil interaction) that microplastic has become a new type of health-hazardous pollution source. Much research has been conducted since the discovery of the “Pacific Garbage Patch,” and the scope has expanded from marine to soil, groundwater, air, and food chain. This article underwent a substantial amount of literature review to verify the degree of microplastic pollution progression in major pillars of the environment (aqueous, terrestrial, airborne, bio-organism, and human). Multiple kinds of literature indicated a high possibility of vigorous interaction among the pillars that microplastic is not stationary at the point of contamination but travels across the nation (transboundary) and medium (transmedium). Thus, only the waste reduction policy (i.e. production and consumption reduction) would be effective through a single national or local effort, while pollution and contamination management require more of a collective, if not global, approach. For these characteristics, this article proposes two most urgently required actions to combat microplastic pollution: (a) global acknowledgement of microplastic as transboundary and transmedium pollution source that require international collective action and (b) standardization of microplastic related research including basic definition and experimental specification to secure global comparativeness among data analysis. Without resolving these two issues, it could be very difficult to obtain an accurate global status mapping of microplastic pollution to design effective and efficient global microplastic pollution management policies.
Low-cost solutions incorporated in a standard surgical pathway for early breast cancer: A pilot study
Authors: Kumar Yadav Sanjay , Sharma Dhananjaya , Bala Sharma Deepti , Mishra Arpan , Agarwal Pawan
Published: November 2022

We present the results of incorporation of low-cost solutions to provide a standard surgical care for early breast cancer (EBC) patients. This surgical pathway consists of a low-cost vacuum-assisted core needle biopsy, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) using low-cost methylene blue and fluorescin dyes under local anesthesia and oncoplastic breast surgery. Patients assessed as clinically node-negative axilla underwent such treatment. SLNB using low-cost dyes was performed without any complication. Oncoplastic surgical techniques were opted for in 32 patients, and the lumps were all excised with a ∼1-cm all-around margin on the final histopathological examination. Standard breast cancer surgery can be provided in low-resource settings to eligible EBC patients with low-cost solutions.
Book review: Rashmi Sadana. 2022. The Moving City: Scenes from the Delhi Metro and the Social Life of Infrastructure
Authors: Pati Sushmita
Published: November 2022

Rashmi Sadana. 2022. The Moving City: Scenes from the Delhi Metro and the Social Life of Infrastructure. Oakland, CA: University of California Press. x + 252 pp. Figures, maps, notes, bibliography, index. $29.95 (eBook)
Agricultural Export, Growth and the Poor in Africa: A Meta Analysis
Authors: Adeabah David , Asongu Simplice
Published: November 2022

Over the past decade, a growing number of studies have examined the role of agricultural export in economic growth in Africa. The literature, however, provides conflicting results about the agricultural export-led growth hypothesis. In this study, we aim to re-examine the impact of agricultural export on economic growth by performing a meta-analysis. There are two questions of interest, namely, (a) whether publication bias is present in the agricultural export-growth literature in Africa, and (b) if there is an overall effect of agricultural export on economic growth. Our meta-analysis finds significant negative publication bias in the literature. Moreover, after correction for publication bias, the results show that agricultural export leads to growth in low-income and lower middle-income African countries. These results are consistent with the agricultural export-led growth hypothesis. By this, we provide empirical basis that may enhance policy decisions on resource allocation to areas of comparative advantage. Additionally, the existence of an income differential effect on the agricultural export-led growth nexus implies that agricultural export-growth strategy has a pronounced effect on the poor in Africa. The result suggests that the poor in Africa could follow an agricultural growth strategy because it is a promising means to increase per capita wealth.

JEL Codes: C10; C40; I30; N50; O55
The role of oral and pharyngeal motor exercises in post-stroke recovery: A scoping review
Authors: Marzouqah Reeman , Huynh Anna , Chen Joyce L , Boulos Mark I , Yunusova Yana
Published: November 2022

Objective

To analyze intervention goals, protocols, and outcome measures used for oral and pharyngeal motor exercises in post-stroke recovery.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsychINFO, and Cochrane databases were searched in September 2022.

Methods

Studies were included if they (1) recruited post-stroke adult patients, (2) administered exercises for the oral and/ or pharyngeal muscles, and (3) reported results at baseline and post-exercise. The extracted data included intervention goals, protocols, and outcomes. All outcomes were classified according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Results

A total of 26 studies were identified. Their intervention goals aimed to rehabilitate a broad spectrum of muscle groups within the oral cavity and pharynx and to improve the functions of swallowing, speech, facial expressions, or sleep breathing. Protocol duration ranged from 1 to 13 weeks, with various exercise repetitions (times per day) and frequency (days per week). Half of the studies reported using feedback to support the training, and these studies varied in the feedback strategy and technology tool. A total of 37 unique outcome measures were identified. Most measures represented the body functions and body structure component of the ICF, and several of these measures showed large treatment effects.

Conclusions

This review demonstrated inconsistency across published studies in intervention goals and exercise protocols. It has also identified current limitations and provided recommendations for the selection of outcome measures while advancing a multidisciplinary view of oral and pharyngeal exercises in post-stroke recovery across relevant functions.
Artificial intelligence assistance for women who had spot compression view: reducing recall rates for digital mammography
Authors: Lee Si Eun , Kim Ga Ram , Yoon Jung Hyun , Han Kyunghwa , Son Won Jeong , Shin Hye Jung , Moon Hee Jung
Published: November 2022

Background

Mammography yields inevitable recall for indeterminate findings that need to be confirmed with additional views.

Purpose

To explore whether the artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm for mammography can reduce false-positive recall in patients who undergo the spot compression view.

Material and Methods

From January to December 2017, 236 breasts from 225 women who underwent the spot compression view due to focal asymmetry, mass, or architectural distortion on standard digital mammography were included. Three readers who were blinded to the study purpose, patient information, previous mammograms, following spot compression views, and any clinical or pathologic reports retrospectively reviewed 236 standard mammograms and determined the necessity of patient recall and the probability of malignancy per breast, first without and then with AI assistance. The performances of AI and the readers were evaluated with the recall rate, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Results

Among 236 examinations, 8 (3.4%) were cancers and 228 (96.6%) were benign. The recall rates of all three readers significantly decreased with AI assistance ( P < 0.05). The reader-averaged recall rates significantly decreased with AI assistance regardless of breast composition (fatty breasts: 32.7% to 24.1%m P = 0.002; dense breasts: 33.6% to 21.2%, P < 0.001). The reader-averaged AUC increased with AI assistance and was comparable to that of standalone AI (0.835 vs. 0.895; P = 0.234). The reader-averaged specificity (71.2% to 79.8%, P < 0.001) and accuracy (71.3% to 79.7%, P  < 0.001) significantly improved with AI assistance.

Conclusion

AI assistance significantly reduced false-positive recall without compromising cancer detection in women with focal asymmetry, mass, or architectural distortion on standard digital mammography regardless of mammographic breast density.
Development and Internal Validity of the Student Opinion Scale: A Measure of Test-Taking Motivation
Authors: Pastor Dena A. , Patterson Chris R. , Finney Sara J.
Published: November 2022

In low-stakes testing contexts, there are minimal personal consequences associated with examinee performance. Examples include assessments administered for research, program evaluation, test development, and international comparisons (e.g., Programme for International Student Assessment [PISA]). Because test-taking motivation can suffer in low-stakes conditions, the Student Opinion Scale (SOS) is commonly administered to measure test-taking effort and how personally important the examinee feels it is to do well on the test. Although popular, studies of the scale’s internal validity yield conflicting findings. The present study critically evaluates the creation of the SOS and considers its factor structure across six samples of college students differing in their college experience level and version of the SOS administered. Because findings only support the internal validity of the effort subscale, further study and development of the importance subscale is recommended.
Residual stress analysis and its effect on springback for multi-step pressbrake bending
Authors: Zhang Min , Tian Xitian , Wang Gangfeng
Published: November 2022

Pressbrake bending is a multi-step metal forming process and widely applied in the fields of aerospace, shipbuilding, and offshore industry. However, the bending residual stress that arise from the previous-pass bending step will affect the stress distribution of the next-pass bending step, and finally affect the springback after unloading, which results in the difficulty to guarantee the dimensional accuracy of the forming part. In this study, the residual stresses for multi-pass pressbrake forming and its influence on springback are systematically investigated. First, the analytical model for the residual stress of the bent specimen with initial curvature is deduced based on geometric relationship and elastic–plastic bending theory. Second, the calculation method of rigid body position redefine to simulate the multi-pass bending forming process is developed, and the numerical method is confirmed by comparison with experimental method. The analytical model to predict the residual stress is shown to be in close agreement with results from numerical method, demonstrating the validity of the analytical model. Finally, the impact of residual stress in single-pass and multi-pass bending forming on springback are discussed thoroughly. It is found that, as the number of forming passes increases, the equivalent plastic strain will increase to 9% of three-pass loading from 7.8% of one-pass loading, which explains the reason of increasing the number of bending passes can not only reduce springback, but also reduce the residual effect of bending forming.
Microstructure, mechanical and wear characteristics of CeO2-Mg metal matrix composites
Authors: Anand Babu V , Kumaravel A , Manikandan R
Published: November 2022

In this study, an attempt is made in producing composite materials by reinforcing cerium oxide with magnesium matrix. Very limited research has been carried out by using cerium oxide as a reinforcement through powder metallurgy technique. Hence the effects of reinforcing cerium oxide on microstructure, mechanical and wear properties in magnesium matrix are studied. The weight percentage of the reinforcement is varied by 3, 6, 9 and 12. Microstructural, mechanical properties like density, microhardness and compression strength and wear properties were studied for the fabricated composites. Scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) exhibited uniform distribution of cerium oxide and its presence in the matrix, respectively. Line scan mapping was also carried out on the samples to identify the particles present at that particular region in the matrix. The increase in cerium oxide has reduced the density but increased porosity in the composite materials. The microhardness and compressive strength have gradually increased with an increase of reinforcements. The microhardness has increased up to 40% and compressive strength has increased from 83 to 176 MPa for 12% cerium oxide, respectively. The wear resistance has also increased with an increase in reinforcement and a 28% increase in wear rate was inferred. SEM images of the worn surface exhibited good grain refinement of ceramic oxide in the matrix.
Functional performance of the Wondaleaf condom: A crossover, noninferiority, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Beksinska Mags , Mphili Nonhlanhla , Smit Jenni
Published: November 2022

Background

New female condom (FC) products wishing to apply for United Nations Population Fund/World Health Organisation (UNFPA/WHO) prequalification are required to conduct a randomized, controlled clinical investigation comparing the new FC to the marketed FC, in order to comply with UNFPA/WHO and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) specifications. We aimed to assess the functional performance, acceptability and safety of the Wondaleaf female condom compared to the control FC2 female condom.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial enrolled 220 women in one South African site. The primary outcome of the study was the rate of female condom (FC) failure. Participants were asked to use five of each FC type and to collect information on use in a condom diary at home, and were interviewed after use of each FC type.

Results

Noninferiority was demonstrated for the Wondaleaf with respect to the reference FC2 for all condom functions. The Wondaleaf was found to be superior to the FC2 reference condom for invagination ( p > .000), misdirection ( p > .000) and clinical failure ( p > .000). Acceptability ratings for a range of features were similar between the two FCs. Few safety events were reported for either device.

Conclusion

The Wondaleaf performs as well as the FC2, and is equally acceptable. Results from this study will inform further refinement of this FC design. Trial registrations: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04076774 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ . South African National Clinical Trials Database (SANCTR) number DOH-27-0319-6020
Preparation of exfoliated graphite nanoplates/thermoplastic polyurethane composites with enhanced dielectric properties
Authors: Lin Bo , He Fu-An , Feng Feng-Ru
Published: November 2022

In this work, exfoliated graphite nanoplates (xGNPs)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composites with enhanced dielectric constant and relatively low dielectric loss factor were prepared by an effective method involving solution blending and water precipitating. The wide-angle X-ray diffraction results proved that the xGNPs had been added into the TPU. Furthermore, the microstructure of the resultant xGNPs (2 wt.%)/TPU composite was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images showed that there were many xGNPs in the TPU elastomer matrix. According to differential scanning calorimetry the melting peak temperature and the crystallization peak temperature of the xGNPs/TPU composites were lower than those of the pure TPU but the melting enthalpy and the crystallization enthalpy of the xGNPs/TPU composites were higher than those of the pure TPU. More importantly, the dielectric constant at 1000 Hz and the thermal conductivity of the xGNPs/TPU composites obviously increased in comparison with those of the pure TPU, especially when the xGNPs content was 2 wt.%.
Is Industry-Specific Value Premium Declining? Evidence from India
Authors: Sharma Bhumiswor , Srikanth P  , Suresha B
Published: November 2022

This article examines whether the literature promised value effect exists and the changing nature of value premium at the industry level. It also determines the value premium’s strength by controlling the January effect within and across the regulated industry groups. This is done by utilizing the two most prominent pricing models: Fama–French three- and five-factor, considering all listed firms trading at BSE India between 1999 and 2020. The results show that a significant value effect exists in 15 of the 17 regulated industry groups over 21.5 years, while sub-period analysis revealed variation in the value effect at industry-based portfolio returns. We developed quintile and multivariate portfolios within and across the industries. Results show that the industry-specific value premium has been relatively low in the current decade due to decreasing industry portfolio returns and increasing P/B ratios within industry groups. The study also used the GRS test to explore the explanatory power of models. Results indicated that the explanatory power of models has declined in post-crisis periods. While controlling the January effect, the value premium has slightly diminished within and across the industry groups in the recent decade. We also observed that investors who seek to allocate assets within and across industries are likely to have potentially predictable and pretty stable returns. While other countries have found industry-specific value premiums, no such study has been conducted in India. As a first attempt, these findings are relevant for investors and academia.
Clinical and Microbial Evaluation of Dental Caries Status and Associated Factors Among Primary Schoolchildren in Myanmar: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Thwin Kaung Myat , Tun Tin Zar , Kaneko Noboru , Nohno Kaname , Ogawa Hiroshi
Published: November 2022

The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of dental caries on primary teeth and to evaluate the cariogenic bacteria in dental plaque and saliva among Myanmar schoolchildren. A cross-sectional study was undertaken among 264 schoolchildren from three primary schools in the urban area of Yangon city in 2019. Clinical oral examinations, caries risk tests, and questionnaire surveys were conducted. Overall caries prevalence was 84.1% with a mean decayed, missing, filled primary teeth (dmft) count of 5.84 ± 4.57. Children’s caries experience and debris scores were significantly associated with their bacteria score level. Father’s occupation was significantly associated with caries prevalence ( P = .024) and dmft ( P = .021). Father’s occupation, snack types, habit of eating sweet food combinations, drink types, and debris score were five significant predictors of dental caries in our study. Dental caries is currently a public health problem among Myanmar children. Caries experience and oral hygiene status were strongly influenced by cariogenic bacteria.
What Do Employers Expect for Jobs Requiring Media Analytics? A Semantic Network Analysis of Job Descriptions of In-Person and Remote Positions During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jiang Ke , Xu Qian , Afromsky Ashleigh
Published: November 2022

Using text mining and semantic network analysis, this study analyzed the job descriptions of 34,787 positions about media analytics from Indeed.com to compare how the in-person and remote jobs differ to inform educators about integrating analytics in the media and communications curriculum. We found that the in-person positions emphasized more on the skills of verbal, interpersonal, and organizational communication, whereas the remote positions asked more for written communication. While the in-person positions had higher expectations of using general data management and analysis tools, the remote positions emphasized more on the use of social media analytics and digital marketing tools.
Race Talk Moves for Racial Literacy in the Elementary Classroom
Authors: Daly Annie
Published: November 2022

The study examines how a white elementary educator used discursive practices I refer to as “race talk moves” to support students’ racial literacy during whole-class read-alouds. This case study found that the teacher used four moves that have been previously documented in literature discussions: listening, participating, synthesizing, and challenging. Significantly, however, the teacher drew upon these moves in ways that were responsive to students’ racialized identities and emergent understandings of race. Moreover, the analysis identified a new, fifth move, what I call “anchoring,” that supported students in moving from surface-level conceptions of race to a deeper understanding of systemic racism. By actively responding to and deepening students’ racial literacy contributions, anchoring moves illuminate how teachers and students can co-construct critical race knowledge. This study diverges from previous research on the drawbacks of white teachers talking about race to demonstrate the moves teachers can make to support students’ racial literacy development.