bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frailty Assessment for Outcome Prediction of Patients With Prostate Cancer Receiving Radical Prostatectomy: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Liu Xin , Sun Weihang
Published: June 2022

A meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the association between frailty and postoperative complications in patients with prostate cancer following radical prostatectomy. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted for relevant cohort studies. A random-effect model was chosen to combine the results. Five cohort studies including 171,929 patients were included. Results showed that patients with frailty had higher risk of severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo IV complications, risk ratio [RR]: 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.67 to 2.10, p < .001; I2 = 18%) and all-cause mortality (RR: 2.89, 95% CI: 1.86 to 4.50, p < 0.001; I2 = 18%). Subgroup analyses showed consistent results in patients receiving open and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, and also in studies with univariate and multivariate analyses. In conclusion, preoperative frailty may be a predictor of severe postoperative complications and all-cause mortality of patients with prostate cancer following radical prostatectomy.
Compressive stress-strain relationships of concrete exposed to elevated temperatures based on mesoscopic damage method
Authors: Bai Wei-Feng , Wang Wei-Li , Guan Jun-Feng , Wang Jian-you , Yuan Chen-yang
Published: June 2022

Damage evolution in concrete after high temperature is a complicated procedure, in which the pre-peak strain hardening behaviour, the post-peak strain softening behaviour and the impact of high temperature play key roles. Uniaxial and biaxial compression damage models of concrete considering high temperature degradation effect are proposed based on damage theory and experimental phenomena. They consider that the destruction of concrete is actually the cumulative evolution course of the two meso-damage modes, rupture and yield. High temperature changes the mechanical performance in microstructure of concrete and the generation and propagation of microcracks. It could be described by adjusting the probability distributions which characterize the mesoscopic damage evolution. The damage constitutive model is employed to determine the stress-strain behaviour of concrete under uniaxial compression, and the calculated results are compared with the experimental results under different high temperature levels. Results indicate that the proposed model can not only predict the stress-strain behaviour with acceptable accuracy in macroscopic scale, but also reveal the damage evolution mechanism in mesoscopic scale. Finally, the constitutive behaviour under biaxial compression is also simulated to investigate the influence of high temperature on biaxial stress-strain behavior and strength envelope.
“CLockdown”—Exploring the Design of Time in the “New Normal”
Authors: Hancock P. A.
Published: June 2022

This work is in response to the observations of Professor Smith on an earlier article of mine entitled “On the Design of Time,” in the present Journal.
Active and passive fault tolerant control allocation strategy for nonlinear systems
Authors: Ijaz Salman , Ijaz Hamdoon , Hamayun Mirza Tariq , Javaid Umair
Published: June 2022

This article introduced fault-tolerant control (FTC) schemes for over-actuated affine non-linear uncertain systems. The proposed methodologies incorporate two different control allocation (CA) units with high-level nonlinear adaptive sliding mode control (NLASMC) strategy. The first FTC strategy is active that utilizes an online CA unit to effectively manage the redundant actuators towards the chosen flight path in faulty conditions. On the other hand, the second FTC scheme is passive based on the idea of a fixed CA scheme and does not require control-input reconfiguration during the faulty condition. A robust NLASMC law is selected to enforce the state trajectories converges to the sliding manifold despite the uncertainty in the model dynamics and external disturbance effect. The proposed schemes are then applied to the nonlinear F16 aircraft detailed model equipped with thrust vectoring (TV) control. The nonlinear simulations on 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) F16 aircraft are performed under the failure of the aileron, rudder, and elevator. It can be visualized that both schemes performed well, but online CA scheme can cope with more faults and failures combinations in comparison to fixed CA schemes. Furthermore, both FTC approaches performed well when compared to existing methods in the literature.
Adaptive Fuzzy Asymptotic Tracking for Nonlinear Nonstrict-feedback Systems With Input Quantization
Authors: Sun Jiaxu , Li Yuan-Xin
Published: June 2022

This article investigates an adaptive fuzzy tracking control problem for the nonlinear nonstrict-feedback systems with quantized input. The control signal has a new transformation since a time varying auxiliary signal and a hyperbolic tangent function are introduced to the controller. Moreover, a novel adaptive fuzzy control scheme is proposed such that input quantization can be solved by applying hysteresis quantizer in the case of unknown quantization parameters. For traditional adaptive quantization control schemes with nonstrict-feedback form, current studies have shown that the tracking error can only converge to a small neighborhood of the origin. Based on the proposed control method, all the signals in the closed-loop system are bounded, and the tracking error can converge to zero asymptotically. Finally, the effectiveness of the presented method is shown via the numerical simulation results.
Urban Social Movement Strategies in Times of Crisis: Evidence from the Movements for Housing in São Paulo
Authors: Donaghy Maureen
Published: June 2022

This research note seeks to update our understanding of the factors that influence shifts in social movement strategies. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, I assess the role of crisis in whether and how social movements reshape their strategies and perhaps redefine their fight for the right to the city. Though previous research has shown the importance of political opportunities and ideology for social movement strategies, we need to reassess these variables and the direction of change in times of crisis. Using the case of the Union of Housing Movements in São Paulo, I find that though the tactics of the movement responded to a conflictual relationship at the federal level and a need to meet immediate needs of members, the ideology of the movement provided the structure for continuing to engage in inclusionary governance strategies and renewed energy for transformational change.
Local Functional Connectivity as a Parsimonious Explanation of the Main Frameworks for ADHD in Medication-Naïve Adults
Authors: Marcos-Vidal Luis , Martínez-García Magdalena , Martín de Blas Daniel , Navas-Sánchez Francisco J. , Pretus Clara , Ramos-Quiroga Josep Antoni , Richarte Vanesa , Vilarroya Óscar , Sepulcre Jorge , Desco Manuel , Carmona Susanna
Published: June 2022

Objective: Neuroimaging studies in children with ADHD indicate that their brain exhibits an atypical functional connectivity pattern characterized by increased local connectivity and decreased distant connectivity. We aim to evaluate if the local and distant distribution of functional connectivity is also altered in adult samples with ADHD who have never received medication before. Methods: We compared local and distant functional connectivity between 31 medication-naïve adults with ADHD and 31 healthy controls and tested whether this pattern was associated with symptoms severity scores. Results: ADHD sample showed increased local connectivity in the dACC and the SFG and decreased local connectivity in the PCC. Conclusion: Results parallel those obtained in children samples suggesting a deficient integration within the DMN and segregation between DMN, FPN, and VAN. These results are consistent with the three main frameworks that explain ADHD: the neurodevelopmental delay hypothesis, the DMN interference hypothesis, and multi-network models.
Fracking and Traffic Crashes in Eagle Ford Shale of Texas
Authors: Majumdar Sarmistha R. , Chun Bumseok
Published: June 2022

Fracking is used in the extraction of crude oil and natural gas from deep seated sedimentary rocks. The ubiquitous use of heavy trucks in fracking leads to traffic congestion and damages to the existing infrastructure in energy producing corridors. This makes driving hazardous for drivers of both commodity and passenger carriers, leading to traffic crashes near fracking sites. In this exploratory study, the case of Eagle Ford Shale of Texas has been analyzed to determine the impacts if any, of the variables of energy production, truck vehicle miles traveled, and other socio-economic factors on traffic crashes. Using both descriptive and statistical analyses of data, it has been found that some of the aforementioned variables have an impact on traffic crashes in the energy producing corridor. Based on the study’s findings, appropriate recommendations to reduce traffic crashes in this energy corridor have been made.
Public-Private Partnerships and Value for Money
Authors: de Faria Silva Robson , Souza Alceu , Kaczam Fabíola , Dalazen Luciano Luiz , da Silva Wesley Vieira , da Veiga Claudimar Pereira
Published: June 2022

The implementation of infrastructure projects is one element that drives economic development. When considering the high costs and complexity of these projects, the importance of analysis is highlighted a little more than traditional value for money when such projects are carried out in a public-private partnership. This article examines the state of the art of research on evaluating public-private partnership performance considering evidence of value for money. For this purpose, a systematic literature review was conducted based on the scientific production available in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The main contributions of this study consist of presenting (1) a set of papers on performance evaluation that considers VfM as a complement to its evaluation systems, comparatively or inclusively in its analyses; (2) a methodological framework; and (3) guidelines for future research. This study provides insights for developing empirical studies in a wide range of contexts or sectors.
A Systematic Review of Meta-Evaluations: Lessons for Evaluation and Impact Analysis
Authors: Qian-Khoo Joanne Xiaolei , Hiruy Kiros , Hutton Rebecca Willow-Anne , Barraket Jo
Published: June 2022

Impact evaluation and measurement are highly complex and can pose challenges for both social impact providers and funders. Measuring the impact of social interventions requires the continuous exploration and improvement of evaluation approaches and tools. This article explores the available evidence on meta-evaluation—the “evaluation of evaluations”—as an analytical tool for improving impact evaluation and analysis in practice. It presents a systematic review of 15 meta-evaluations with an impact evaluation/analysis component. These studies, taken from both the scholarly and gray literature, were analyzed thematically, yielding insights about the potential contribution of meta-evaluation in improving the methodological rigor of impact evaluation and organizational learning among practitioners. To conclude, we suggest that meta-evaluation is a viable way of examining impact evaluations used in the broader social sector, particularly market-based social interventions.
Sirolimus-coated balloon angioplasty in maintaining the patency of thrombosed arteriovenous graft: 1-year results of a prospective study
Authors: Tan Ru Yu , Tng Alvin Ren Kwang , Tan Chee Wooi , Pang Suh Chien , Zhuang Kun Da , Tay Kiang Hiong , Tang Tjun Yip , Chong Tze Tec , Tan Chieh Suai
Published: June 2022

Background:

A prospective, pilot study was designed to test the feasibility of using sirolimus-coated balloon (SCB) to treat graft vein junction of thrombosed arteriovenous graft (AVG) following successful pharmacomechanical thrombectomy. The present report provides the 1-year results of this study.

Methods:

This is a 1-year follow-up of a single, prospective, single-arm study that was conducted from 2018 to 2019 in 20 patients who presented to a tertiary institution with thrombosed AVG. The recruited patients received SCB angioplasty at the graft-vein junction following successful endovascular thrombectomy of a thrombosed AVG. One year after recruitment, there were three deaths, one AVG revision, and one AVG explantation among the participants recruited. The outcomes of 15 subjects at 1-year following the index procedure obtained from electronic medical records were re-examined.

Results:

The 1-year access circuit primary patency rate was 40%, while assisted primary and secondary patency rates were 46.7% and 73.3%, respectively. A total of 16 interventions (4 angioplasties, 12 thrombectomies) were performed in 9 patients over the 12 months. Four AVGs were abandoned. The median number of interventions per patient was 1 (0–3) per year. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the mean estimated post-intervention access circuit primary patency was 230 (95% CI: 162–300) days, while access circuit assisted primary patency was 253 (95% CI: 187–320) days, and access circuit secondary patency was 292 (95% CI: 230–356) days. Sub-group analysis did not show a significant difference in the mean estimated primary patency between AVG with de novo and recurrent stenosis (245 days, 95% CI: 151–339 vs 210 days, 95% CI: 113–307; p = 0.29).

Conclusions:

SCB may help sustain the patency of thrombosed AVG following successful thrombectomy.
Use of peripherally inserted central catheters with a dedicated vascular access specialists team versus centrally inserted central catheters in the management of septic shock patients in the ICU
Authors: Raza Hassan A , Nokes Brandon T , Alvarez Bruno , Colquist Julie , Park John , Kashyap Rahul , Patel Bhavesh , Cartin-Ceba Rodrigo
Published: June 2022

Objectives:

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are increasingly recognized as an alternative to centrally inserted central catheters (CICCs) in critical care, yet the data regarding the safety and feasibility of this choice in septic shock management is growing but still lacking. In this study, we aimed to determine the feasibility, safety, and impact on outcomes of using dedicated vascular access specialist (VAS) teams to insert PICCs versus CICCs on patients admitted to the ICU with septic shock.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Mayo Clinic Rochester Medical ICU and Mayo Clinic Arizona Multidisciplinary ICU from 2013 to 2016.

Patients:

All adult patients hospitalized with diagnosis of septic shock excluding patients who declined authorization for review of their medical records, mixed shock states, and readmissions.

Interventions:

None.

Measurement and main results:

Comprehensive data regarding septic shock diagnosis and resuscitation were abstracted from electronic medical records. A total of 562 patients with septic shock were included in the study; 215 patients were resuscitated utilizing a PICC and 347 were resuscitated using a CICC. On univariate analysis, the time to central line insertion and time to vasopressor initiation were found to be reduced in those who received PICC at time of ICU admission versus CICC. Other favorable outcomes were also observed in those who received PICC versus CICC including shorter ICU length of stay and lower unadjusted hospital mortality. A multivariable analysis for hospital mortality showed that after adjusting for important covariates, neither the time to central line insertion nor the time to vasopressor initiation was associated with a lower hospital mortality.

Conclusions:

Across two tertiary referral centers within the same enterprise, use of a dedicated VAS team for insertion of PICCs for initial resuscitation in patients with septic shock was feasible and associated with shorter time to central venous access and initiation of vasopressors; however, adjusted hospital mortality was not different between the two groups.
Racialized experiences as in-betweenness in academia
Authors: Mandalaki Emmanouela , Prasad Ajnesh
Published: June 2022

This article draws on an in-depth narrative of a Chinese woman, early career researcher based in a UK business school, to consider questions of subtle racism in academia. Specifically, engaging with our informant’s testimony, and reading it in the context of critical organizational debates on race, we offer episodic accounts of the subtle racism that she has encountered in academia to conceptualize experiences of in-betweenness of racial minorities excluded from dominant diversity discourses. In her case, subtle racism appears to emanate from a set of gendered and racialized tropes, culminating in the “model minority” myth. This article captures how racism is encountered differently by different populations; specifically, it illuminates how racism materializes in culturally-dependent, idiosyncratic forms, which should not be de-contextualized from the historical, political, and social dynamics that engender it. In so doing, it contributes to recent efforts to speak out against racism in the academy.
Investigation of the adhesive and abrasive wear mechanisms at the atomic scale using molecular dynamic simulations
Authors: Ahmadi Joneidi Amir , Shamshirsaz Mahnaz , Taghvaeipour Afshin
Published: June 2022

In this study, the effect of adhesion on material removal is numerically investigated at the nanoscale level. In this regard, Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations are conducted to distinguish the contribution of adhesive and abrasive wear mechanisms during a scratching process in terms of the degree of interfacial adhesion and scratching depth. The numerical model simulates the scratching of a flat workpiece made of a single crystalline aluminum using a rigid conical indenter with a blunted spherical tip at four different indentation depths (i.e. 0, 3, 7, and 10 Å). The classical Leonard-Jones interatomic potential is used to mimic the degree of adhesion by varying the adhesion parameter between 5–70% of the aluminum bonding energy. It is shown that, at shallow scratching depths, the contribution of adhesive work to the frictional work is much larger than the ploughing work. On the contrary, the ratio of adhesive to ploughing work reduces by increasing the scratching depth.
Frailty scoring in vascular and endovascular surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Koh Bernard JQW , Lee Quinncy , Wee Ian JY , Syn Nicholas , Lee Keng Siang , Jie Ng Jun , Wong Audrey LA , Soong John TY , MTL Choong Andrew
Published: June 2022

One in 10 independently living adults aged 65 years old and older is considered frail, and frailty is associated with poor postoperative outcomes. This systematic review aimed to examine the association between frailty assessments and postoperative outcomes in patients with vascular disease. Electronic databases – MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library – were searched from inception until January 2022, resulting in 648 articles reviewed for potential inclusion and 16 studies selected. Demographic data, surgery type, frailty measure, and postoperative outcomes predicted by frailty were extracted from the selected studies. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The selected studies (mean age: 56.1–76.3 years) had low-to-moderate risk of bias and included 16 vascular (elective and nonelective) surgeries and eight frailty measures. Significant associations ( p < 0.05) were established between mortality (30-day, 90-day, 1-year, 5-year), 30-day morbidity, nonhome discharge, adverse events, failure to rescue, patient requiring care after discharge, and amputation following critical limb ischaemia. The strongest evidence was found between 30-day mortality and frailty. Composite 30-day morbidity and mortality, functional status at discharge, length of stay, spinal cord deficit, and access site complications were found to be nonsignificantly associated with frailty. With frailty being significantly associated with several adverse postoperative outcomes, preoperative frailty assessments can potentially be clinically useful in helping practitioners predict and guide the pre-, peri-, and postoperative management of frail with vascular disease.
When you say nothing at all: Invoking inferences from suspect silence in the police station
Authors: Daly Yvonne , Dowd Ciara , Muirhead Aimée
Published: June 2022

Drawing on qualitative research with criminal justice professionals, this article explores the practical operation of provisions allowing for inferences to be drawn from silence at the point of police questioning in Ireland. The article examines (1) pre-interview disclosure and the timing of the invocation of inferences within the detention period; (2) the manner in which suspects are informed about the possible consequences of any failure to answer questions or mention certain facts; and, (3) the value and impact of inferences at trial. Findings include the need to reconsider the late disclosure approach adopted to police interrogation in Ireland, while maintaining separate inference interviews; difficulties with the current ‘ordinary language’ examples used to explain inference provisions to suspects; and, a notable distinction between the use of inferences in particular courts in the Irish criminal process.
The peculiarity of American evidence law: An outsider's observation and reflection
Authors: Wang Zhuhao
Published: June 2022

American evidence law is puzzling. It is essentially a large class of exclusionary rules barring certain types of otherwise relevant evidence from reaching the trier of fact at trial, although the same types of evidence would largely be regarded as valuable in the civil law system or simply in everyday life. For outsiders—especially those from civil law countries, which favour the principle of free proof—such peculiarity is difficult to understand. It is not an overstatement to say that the law of evidence simply never developed in civil law countries. As an outsider to the common law system, the author of this article probed into literatures regarding rationales for American evidence law, with a focus on the ‘jury control’ theory raised by James Bradley Thayer, who described evidence law as ‘child of the jury system’ in the late nineteenth century. Taking a close look at the complex, dynamic relationship between the common law jury and American evidence law, the author argues that it is time for the child (evidence law) to grow up by departing from jury thinking. American evidence scholarship should shift at least partially away from jury-based trials and toward other contexts. Such a shift will make evidence law more engaged with today's legal environment and on a global scale.
A Truly Missed Opportunity: The Political Context and Impact of the Basic Income Experiment in Finland
Authors: Hiilamo Heikki
Published: June 2022

Finland conducted the first nationwide field experiment with partial basic income between 2017 and 2018. The experiment and its results were widely reported in international media and featured in political debates across the globe. Domestically, the experiment had an impact on social policy debates but no impact on social policy. For example, it did not feature in the Social Security 2030 project or in the work of the Social Security Reform Committee (2020–2027). The research setting for the experiment was compromised from the beginning due to political reasons; but the scientific power was further undermined by a new sanctioning model, which was implemented in 2018 at the beginning of the second year of the basic income experiment. The new Government taking office in 2019 promised to continue with a negative income tax experiment; however, no such experiment was conducted. The article will unpack these developments in Finland and discuss possible explanations for denouncing basic income as a policy idea.
Systematic validation of the PAAShA shielding prediction method
Authors: Thomas Russell H , Guo Yueping
Published: June 2022

Based on classical diffraction theories with modifications and extensions in analytical formulations and numerical implementations, a new code has been developed at NASA for the prediction of aircraft noise shielding, named as Propulsion Airframe Aeroacoustic Shielding Attenuation (PAAShA). The code is developed primarily for aircraft system noise predictions, although it may also be useable in other applications with acoustic shielding. The requirements for this code are driven by the need for a robust, capable code to use with NASA’s Aircraft Noise Prediction Program (ANOPP) for aircraft integration and system noise research. The requirements are met and include capabilities to use a wide range of aircraft geometries, rapid calculation times consistent with aircraft system noise problems, and the flexibility to model realistic noise source characteristics and distributions. The accuracy and robustness of the method are demonstrated in this paper with a set of problems, including a cylinder, a finite plate, a symmetrical two-dimensional airfoil, and a full three-dimensional hybrid wing body aircraft model tested in a wind tunnel. This range of problems demonstrates both smooth and sharp edge diffraction capabilities for a wide range of frequencies and low Mach number flow effects at low angles of attack. Predictions are shown to be accurate to within 1–4 dB over a wide range of the most significant frequencies and directivity angles. This is determined by comparing with data, which have experimental uncertainties, particularly at high frequencies, high angles, and source characteristics. The accuracy diminishes for geometries that include a significant reflection component, which is not calculated by the code. Accuracy can also be somewhat diminished for high azimuthal angles. Accurate modeling of the noise source, particularly its frequency and directivity characteristics, is essential to obtaining accurate results.
Self active cancellation of fan noise
Authors: Fuller Christopher R
Published: June 2022

Reduction of fan noise is an important problem in the successful deployment of drones and UAV's. This paper considers a new approach to reducing fan and propeller noise based upon micro vibrations of the propeller blades around their axis of support. Experimental testing was carried out on a five bladed fan arrangement. The micro fan blade vibrations are induced with a pitch link actuator arrangement driven by an electromagnetic actuator. When used in conjunction with a digital feedforward active noise controller, the micro blade vibrations were found to provide global attenuations of fan radiated sound the order of 5 to 10dB of the first few fan tones. The level of required vibrations and the associated electrical power required for the cancelling micro vibrations was shown to be very small compared to the fan motor power requirements. The results demonstrate that the innovative approach, termed “self active cancellation of fan noise”, has good potential for global reduction of fan and propeller noise.
Evaluation of an eLearning System to Train Health Professionals to Communicate about Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation with Donor Families
Authors: Siminoff Laura A. , Alolod Gerard P. , Davis Ellen E. , McGregor Hayley R. , Litsas Diana C. , Sarwer David B. , Mulvania Patricia A. , Hasz Richard D. , Gardiner Heather M.
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) donation relies on obtaining surrogate authorization. Yet, many donor professionals have limited experience discussing composite allograft donation. Using virtual and interactive elements, the eLearning program, Communicating Effectively about Donation for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (CEaD-VCA), was developed to enhance the quality of donor professionals’ communication approach. Research Questions: We tested the effectiveness of the eLearning program in improving donor professionals’ knowledge, preparedness, and confidence leading discussions with families. Design: Donor professionals who primarily obtain family authorization for solid organ and tissue donation were recruited from 2 regional Organ Procurement Organizations. The training was evaluated using a nonrandomized pre-post design. Participants completed an online survey with items assessing their knowledge, preparedness, and confidence for donation discussions. Pre- and post-training responses were compared using paired sample t-tests. Results: The sample included 42 donor professionals. The majority (71.4%) had at least 3 years of work experience, and over half (52.4%) had no experience discussing VCA donation with families. Post-training, significant increases in mean knowledge scores (6.4 pre to 7.0 post, P < 0.01) and mean self-reported preparation (6.6 pre to 7.9 post, P < 0.0001) were observed. There were significant increases in mean confidence scores for discussing face (6.2 pre to 7.9 post, P < 0.0001) and hand (6.2 pre to 8.0 post, P < 0.0001) transplants. Conclusion: The CEaD-VCA program was effective in increasing donor professionals’ knowledge, preparation, and confidence when discussing donation, and holds potential for improving donor professional communication during donation discussions.
Picturing Diversity: Netflix’s Inclusion Strategy and the Netflix Recommender Algorithm (NRA)
Authors: Khoo Olivia
Published: June 2022

This essay asks two related questions: what is unique about streaming services (and Netflix specifically), that generates a greater investment in the diversity of its content, and how does the technology associated with streaming, in particular algorithmic recommendation systems, facilitate an engagement with diversity and inclusion? To answer these questions the essay considers the relationship between Netflix’s Inclusion Strategy, its Recommender Algorithm, and the diversity of its content, exploring the complex set of relations that exist between the way Netflix recommends content to its audience and its (perceived) diversity.
Selective Angioembolisation of Iatrogenic Renal Artery Pseudoaneurysms Following Minimally Invasive Urological Procedures: A Single Centre Case Series
Authors: Narroway Harry G. , Kovacic James L. , Bourke Bernard M. , Louis-Johnsun Mark , Latif Edward R. , Bourke Victor C.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to report our centre’s experience using selective angioembolisation in the treatment of iatrogenic renal artery pseudoaneurysms (RAP) following minimally invasive urological procedures.

Methods

Our retrospective analysis included four consecutive patients treated with angioembolisation for iatrogenic RAP between October 2016 and October 2021. Data on demographics, minimally invasive urological intervention, clinical features, imaging findings, embolization procedure and perioperative details were collected. Rates of technical and clinical success, defined as 1. total occlusion of the extravasation site on completion digital subtraction angiography (DSA), and 2. resolution of symptoms, signs, and serum hemoglobin (Hb) derangements secondary to RAP, were analysed. Renal function, measured by serum creatinine (Cr) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), was recorded prior to and post - angioembolisation procedure and compared.

Results

Mean time between urological intervention and angioembolisation was 9 days (range, 2–17 days). Rates of technical and clinical success were 100% and 100% respectively. No additional angioembolisation procedures were required, and there were no peri or post-operative complications identified during mean follow-up of 662 days (range, 30–1845 days). Mean serum Cr prior to and post angioembolisation was 83 mmol/L and 79.5 mmol/L. Mean eGFR prior to and post angioembolisation was 73.8 and 77.8 mL/min/1.73 m2. In all patients, no significant difference was observed in serum Cr and eGFR prior to and post angioembolisation.

Conclusion

Iatrogenic renal artery pseudoaneurysms can occur following a range of minimally invasive urological procedures. This retrospective review highlights the utility of angioembolisation as a safe and effective treatment with high clinical and technical success rates. Further studies involving larger populations are required to validate its broader application.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Induces the Demethylation of Actinin Alpha 4 to Inhibit Diabetic Nephropathy Renal Fibrosis via the NF-KB Signaling Pathway In Vitro
Authors: He Chunling , Wang Dong , Wang Ruoling , Huang Yongli , Huang Xin , Shen ShuMin , Lv Jun , Wu Mingcai
Published: June 2022

Actinin alpha 4 ( ACTN4) is expressed in the kidney podocytes. ACTN4 gene methylation in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains high. Underlying mechanism of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) inducing ACTN4 demethylation, and its inhibitory effect on DN renal fibrosis remains unclear.

Methods:

Human podocyte cell line, HPC, was treated with high glucose to establish model of DN. The levels of cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin (IL)-8, and fibrosis markers, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin (FN), were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. HPC cells were treated with EGCG, and cell viability was determined by MTT assay, ACTN4 gene methylation was analyzed by MSP. mRNA and protein expression levels were measured using RT-qPCR and Western blotting, respectively.

Results:

Actinin alpha 4 gene promoter was hypermethylated in the high glucose-treated groups. EGCG reversed the hypermethylated status of ACTN4, along with the upregulation of ACTN4 levels and downregulation of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), NF-κB p65, p-NF-κB p65, IκB-α, VEGF, IL-8, α-SMA, and FN levels ( P<.05).

Conclusion:

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate reduced hypermethylation of ACTN4 in HPC cells by downregulating DNMT1 expression and restoring ACTN4 expression, contributing to the upregulation of the NF-KB p65, p-NF-KB p65, IKB-α, VEGF, IL-8, α-SMA, and FN levels (P<.05).
Ukraine 2022, through the leadership binoculars
Authors: Sanders Paul
Published: June 2022

The essay provides a take, by a historian, on the 2022 Ukraine war. It draws attention to the fact that, over the past 20 years, terms such as “game-changer” or “turning point” have been frequently employed to characterize important junctures. However, 2022 is qualitatively different from all of these, as it represents the antithesis to 1989 and marks the end of an entire era. From the leadership perspective, one immediate effect of a turning point is the reckoning with the past that it entails. It forces a rethink on past behavior. And this collective cognitive rewiring triggers the questioning of the legacy of leaders associated with the now discredited course of action. Taking the example of the crisis of conscience currently underway in Germany, the essay cautions against scapegoating that relies on retrospective selection bias; suggesting instead, that the focus of attention should be shifted to the collective cognitive blinders that prevented the numerous Cassandras, who understood the genuine nature of Putinist aggression, from being listened to. The essay then turns its attention to the proliferation of historical analogies and comparisons, arguing that this tells us less about the event and more about the fact that our compasses have gone haywire. As corollaries of our profound disarray, they even prevent us from gaining a better understanding of the phenomenon. This is addressed in the final part, which includes reflections on Putin as a leader, Putinist followership, as well as the challenges Western leaders are likely to face in the future.
What Was Not Said and What to Do About It
Authors: Kuncel Nathan R. , Worrell Frank C.
Published: June 2022

The Woo et al. review (this issue) provides a foundation for considering the larger goals of higher education. We step back to consider the broader goals and ideals of higher education. Fundamentally, we want to admit a diverse set of students into graduate school and then produce the most accomplished scientists, artists, leaders, and innovators. In a world with inequality in preparation and finite resources, these ideals end up in tension without any easy resolution. The inability to provide opportunities and develop talent across all groups up to early adulthood is the fundamental problem we face. It is tempting to ignore it. We would be delighted if test and grade differences could be easily dismissed. Instead, we know that a great deal of potential is being wasted, and this waste represents a terrible loss for individuals, communities, and society. We believe that the greatest change will come from better and expanded investment in expanded gifted-and-talented programs, increasing the flow of underrepresented students into these programs, greatly improved assessment of psychosocial skills and talents at all levels, and career counseling and mentoring that begins early and continues through higher education.
Witnesses to inhumanity on shifting terrain: Embracing an ethic of discomfort for optimal learning in an international field course
Authors: Wilson-Forsberg Stacey , Monaghan S Richelle , Corrales Diana Correa
Published: June 2022

This paper examines the written reflections of 30 Canadian undergraduate students who participated in an international field course focusing on migration and human rights in Mexico. It endeavors to understand how the students reconciled their thoughts and feelings about trauma and oppression in an intercultural setting. Borrowing Foucault’s ‘ethic of discomfort’, which emphasizes the proactive and transformative potential of discomfort in education, the paper extends existing scholarship in teaching and learning around study abroad and social justice by focusing on ethically complex situations in the field. The findings reveal that while preparation for unprecedented and unforeseeable scenarios during an international field course was challenging for faculty, exposing students to the realities of migration ultimately facilitated learning.
State estimation with trusted phasor measuring unit placements of distribution system involving renewable energy sources
Authors: Arivazhagan Thamaraiselvi , Srikrishna Subramanian , Kaliyan Naveenkumar , Sivarajan Ganesan
Published: June 2022

Among Renewable Energy Sources wind and solar energy are the most prominent and favorable substitutes to meet mankind’s future electricity requirements. Typically, these resources are combined in a distribution network to provide local distribution users. The amalgamation of these upgrades into the distribution network may modify the malfunction and network topologies, which may fail due to their pre-set state. Therefore, an advanced and accurate tracking device must continuously monitor topology changes, which is the Phasor Measuring Unit (PMU). This work proposes a new technique based on the Sea Lion Optimization Algorithm to determine the Optimal PMU Placements and its employment positions, i.e. the power structure is completely perceptible. In addition, the cost of system losses can be calculated with or without wind energy to achieve energy reserves. The energy losses before and after the wind turbine connection is compared to realize energy reserves. This comparison of energy reserves is made using Realistic and Stochastic platforms. Comparison and proposed formulas offered in the IEEE 15, 33, 69, and 85 bus distribution networks were explored to prove their effectiveness. Moreover, the proposed methodology produces more trusted results than those of other methods in the literature.
An Analytical Apparatus for Visual Imagery Applied in a Social-Behavioral Research
Authors: Hannes Karin , Siegesmund Richard
Published: June 2022

Participant created visual data are increasingly being used in social-behavioral sciences projects. They have become a popular medium in community-based research adopting an arts-informed approach to study challenging life circumstances of community members. We argue that visual data can do more than just illustrate ideas or concepts, particularly in the process of research where participants contribute to the data collection phase. Visual images record the tacit meanings of the person who makes them, and they can—with the help of a researcher skilled in qualitative reasoning—form another stream of textual analysis. The authors developed an Analytical Apparatus for Visual Imagery (AAVI), constructed from the elements of art and the principles of design and other arts-based sources, and applied it to two different arts-based research projects where participants created visual images or artworks for analysis. Through a combination of storylines and the AAVI analysis, a deeper level of analytical interpretation and a better understanding of the complexity of human experience were reached, particularly in trying to understand the emotional layers linked to experiences.
The state of water
Authors: Squire Rachael
Published: June 2022

This brief response to Riding and Dahlman's compelling paper offers two reflections that seek to build on their rich analysis of the complex geographies and geopolitics of Liberland. Firstly, it explores how the ‘restless river’ might be further enlivened as an actor within this intriguing context. It then digs further into the non-human complexities of the project by suggesting that the animals of Liberland warrant further attention. In doing so, it seeks to add additional complexity to the challenge of rethinking ‘traditional ways’ of writing about disputed territories and to shed further light on the violence associated with ascriptions of ‘terra nullius’.
Posture and musculoskeletal implications for students using mobile phones because of learning at home policy
Authors: Hasiholan Bonardo Prayogo , Susilowati Indri Hapsari
Published: June 2022

There is an increasing trend of awkward postures due to smartphone use among students learning from home. Previous research in several countries has shown that the use of smartphones during a pandemic impacts musculoskeletal complaints. This study aimed to determine the postures performed by the students when using mobile phones and their implications for musculoskeletal complaints. A total of 709 students who learned from home voluntarily completed an online questionnaire regarding identity, work posture, and duration, while muscle and bone complaints experienced when using mobile phones were obtained through the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Furthermore, a bivariate analysis of body postures was carried out to identify perceived complaints using the chi-square method. The results showed a significant relationship between standing and leaning on a table posture ( p-value: 0.026) with elbow, knee, and ankle complaints.
Unethical Practices and Effects of Digital Journalism in the COVID-19 Era: The Case of TRNC
Authors: Dolunay Ayhan , Elyeli Kemal , Kasap Fevzi
Published: June 2022

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread to many countries and has been causing serious repercussions as a pandemic. The use of digital technologies has increased significantly during the pandemic and they have helped transform people’s lives. In this study, COVID-19-related news disseminated by four news sites in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) were analyzed. It was investigated whether news sites are broadcast in accordance with ethical principles. Semi-structured interviews were held with communication specialists and psychologists to identify the reasons, effects, and prevention methods of ethical violations on digital journal news. It was found that ethical principles are not completely considered owing to the expectations to increase the number of clicks and profits of the four news sites examined. It is recommended that trainings should be conducted on ethical principles, personal rights, and awareness creation. Additionally, revisions should be made in relevant laws and an “Internet News Site Ethics Committee” should be established.
Nexus Between Poverty and Superstitious Beliefs among Tribal Communities of Assam: A Case Study of Rabha Tribe
Authors: Bora Debakshi , Das Bhargab
Published: June 2022

Superstitious beliefs are found to be widely prevalent among all cultures and communities across the globe. Despite the progress of science and technology, superstitious beliefs still exist in our society. As such, superstitions are often perpetuated due to illiteracy and ignorance. With this backdrop, the present study tries to analyse the status of poverty and its impact on superstitious beliefs among tribal communities with special focus on the Rabha community, one of the scheduled tribes in the plain districts of Assam, India. A total of 24 statements expressing superstitious beliefs have been collected with the help of review of relevant literature, consulting with social scientists, and a few local people in the study area. These 24 statements have been factor analysed by using principal component analysis and finally 18 statements have been selected for constructing a superstitious index at household level. Poverty status has been measured by applying the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI). The findings show the presence of poverty among the Rabha Community of Goalpara district. Regression results show that poverty has a positive impact on superstitious beliefs and there exist a high correlation between the two variables.
The COVID-19 School Year: Learning and Recovery Across 2020-2021
Authors: Kuhfeld Megan , Soland James , Lewis Karyn , Ruzek Erik , Johnson Angela
Published: June 2022

The schooling disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic continue to reverberate across the K-12 educational system more than a year after schools closed for in-person instruction. In this study, we examined the aftermath of these disruptions by modeling student achievement trends prior to and during the pandemic, with particular focus on growth in 2020-2021. The data included test scores from 4.9 million U.S. students in Grades 3 through 8. Although the average student demonstrated positive gains in math and reading during the 2020-2021 school year, students were still behind typical (prepandemic) averages by spring 2021 (0.16 to 0.26 standard deviations behind in math and 0.06 to 0.11 standard deviations behind in reading). Furthermore, growth in math was more variable than in prior years, and much of the gains occurred among initially high-performing students pulling further ahead. Findings support the theory that the pandemic left students behind academically across the board while also worsening existing educational inequities.
Alberta Family Integrated Care™ and Standard Care: A Qualitative Study of Mothers’ Experiences of their Journeying to Home from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Dien Rachael , Benzies Karen M. , Zanoni Pilar , Kurilova Jana
Published: June 2022

Globally, one in ten infants is born preterm. Most preterm infants require care in a level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), which are highly technological critical care environments that can be overwhelming for parents. Alberta Family Integrated Care (AB-FICare™) is an approach to care that provides strategies to integrate parents into their infant’s care team. This sub-study is the first to compare mothers’ experiences in the context of AB-FICare™ and standard care. Semi-structured interviews with mothers from AB-FICare™ ( n = 14) and standard care ( n = 12) NICUs were analyzed using interpretive description informed by grounded theory methods. We identified a major theme of Journeying to Home with six categories: Recovering from Birth, Adapting to the NICU, Caring for Baby, Coping with Daily Disruption, Seeing Progress, and Supporting Parenting. Mothers in the AB-FICare™ group identified an enhancement to standard care related to building reciprocal trust with healthcare providers that accelerated Journeying to Home.