bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Project productions with real-life problems in the STEM domain of gifted youths according to their program evaluations
Authors: Özbek Gülnur , Cho Seokhee
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to examine project productions of gifted youths with real-life problems in the STEM domain in the Upper-Lower Groups according to their program evaluations. A mixed research design was used. Education program evaluations of 105 gifted youths, who were attending the Project Production and Management Program at Science and Art Centers in the Republic of Türkiye, were analyzed. It was found that even though they had positive views on the effectiveness of program, there was a significant difference between the lower-27% and upper-27% groups. In the second part, project productions of gifted youths in the Lower-Upper Groups were examined. Even though they were able to produce projects with real-life problems in the STEM domain, differences in favor of the Upper Group were concluded in terms of interdisciplinary connections, complexity of real-life problems, originality of ideas, creative productivity, validation of the solutions, transformation into products, and universality of dissemination.
The corporate effect: Making capitalist space and peasant dispossession in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Zhang Adela
Published: March 2023

This article interrogates the apparently self-evident existence of a road called the Corredor Minero del Sur (Southern Mining Corridor) that connects multiple mega-mining projects in the Andean highlands with export markets elsewhere. It builds on Neil Smith’s theorization of “space as a means of production” to illuminate the discursive practices and legal measures that reimagine “unruly” peasant territories as an “orderly” mineral transport corridor, thereby drawing rural space into a global copper production chain. Through a contemporary history of social conflicts surrounding the Corredor, I demonstrate how corporate and State actors work together to make corporations appear as if they were independent from the social contexts in which they operate and therefore free from responsibility for the harms they cause. Following Timothy Mitchell, I call this the “corporate effect.” This effect, I argue, is essential for conjuring capitalist space like the Corredor because it conceals how peasants are dispossessed of both their lands and a political language for claim-making. To illustrate this, I highlight three processes driving the corporate effect: dissimulation, recategorization, and abstraction. Together, these practices produce extractivist arrangements of law, property, and jurisdiction to create new spaces for governance and capital circulation in the margins of the Peruvian state.
Enhancing Students’ Understanding of Social Media Marketing and the Use of Advertising and Public Relations Terminology Within IMC: A Participatory Action Research Project
Authors: Laurie Sally , Mortimer Kathleen , Holtz Matthew , Little Billy
Published: March 2023

The rapid growth of social media popularity and consequently social media marketing is creating a challenge in terms of the appropriate teaching strategy. Advances in technology are racing ahead of clear terminology. The definitions of Public Relations (PR) and Advertising are being widened to encompass more digital activities and this turf war is causing confusion within the industry, the academic world, and the classroom. This article addresses the need for more research on teaching social media marketing from a strategic perspective based on Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) objectives. It explores the use of the Paid/Owned/Earned Media (POEM) framework as a form of engaged pedagogy and part of the Active Blended Learning framework. Adopting a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, 40 student applications of the POEM framework were analyzed, and the results indicate that it enables students to identify activities within an integrated campaign and their impact on the customer journey. These results were supported by a qualitative analysis of the views of three experienced educators in this field. It is proposed that the application of classifications, such as Paid, Owned, and Earned media, are more useful when teaching social media marketing within IMC than the classifications of Advertising and PR.
A case report of rare complication of brucellosis infection: myocarditis and pneumonitis
Authors: He Yigang , Wei Chongli , Yun Shenghao , Wei Jia , Pu Zhongshu , Dai Peijun
Published: March 2023

The involvement of cardiovascular or respiratory complications in cases of brucellosis are extremely rare. Herein, a case of myocarditis and pneumonia with pericardial effusion, pleural effusion and biliteral pleural thickening with pleural adhesion in a 35-year-old female patient, is described. Using next-generation sequencing, the patient was differentially diagnosed with Brucella-related myocarditis and pneumonitis, and treatment with oral doxycycline, rifampicin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, along with intravenous gentamycin, was commenced. Following treatment, the patient was clinically improved. When a patient with brucellosis presents with chest pain, clinicians should be aware of this clinical manifestation. Next-generation sequencing may be used to identify pathogens and provide insights into the disease when appropriate cultures are negative.
Diagnosis of primary biliary melanoma with distinct imaging features: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Xinhong , Deng Xiaofei , Shu Zheng , Wu Juan
Published: March 2023

Primary biliary melanoma arises from proliferating melanocytes in the mucosal surface of the bile duct and is extremely rare. Since the vast majority of biliary melanomas represent metastases of cutaneous origin, accurate preoperative diagnosis of melanoma and exclusion of other primary sources are vital in cases involving primary lesions. Although melanomas with pigmented cells have typical signal characteristics, obtaining a non-invasive pre-treatment diagnosis remains difficult, due to their low incidence. Here, the case of a 61-year-old male Asian patient who presented with upper quadrant abdominal pain, swelling and jaundice for 2 weeks, and who was diagnosed with primary biliary melanoma following extensive preoperative blood analyses, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is described. Post-resection immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis and the patient received six chemotherapy cycles of temozolomide and cisplatin, however, progression of multiple liver metastases was observed at the 18-month follow-up CT. The patient continued with pembrolizumab and died 17 months later. The present case of primary biliary melanoma is the first reported diagnosis based on typical MRI features and the exhaustive exclusion of a separate primary origin.
Improvement of process control in sheet metal forming by considering the gradual properties of the initial sheet metal
Authors: Zettl Bastian , Schmid Harald , Pulvermacher Samuel , Dyck Alexander , Böhlke Thomas , Gibmeier Jens , Merklein Marion
Published: March 2023

In scientific studies, sheet metal is usually considered as a two-dimensional body. Thus, it is accepted that material properties are in most cases regarded homogeneous in thickness direction. However, a gradation of certain properties becomes apparent when going beyond the standard characterization methods for sheet metals, which can for example, influence the springback behavior and the thinning of the sheet after forming. Thus, the aim of this work is to further improve the prediction accuracy of springback after forming in simulations, by implementing several inhomogeneous properties over the sheet thickness in an existing material model. For this purpose, the entire procedure from the identification of the inhomogeneous properties for describing the gradation to the implementation in a numerical model and its validation by comparing experimental and simulated bending operations is carried out on a DC04 cold-forming steel in order to prove its influence on the springback behavior. It is shown that including graded material properties in simulations does indeed have an impact on the prediction quality of springback and that the information about inhomogeneous properties can be provided by existing characterization methods with a high local resolution like electron backscatter diffraction or X-ray stress analysis. In a further step, it was possible to validate the improvement in numerical accuracy by comparing the prediction of the springback angle from both the existing and the extended model with experimental bending results. Both the initial model as well as the model supplemented with the 3D properties provide a good prediction accuracy in the solution heat treated material state. For the predeformed material, however, the initial numerical model predicts a springback angle of about 13°, which deviates remarkably from the experimentally obtained mean value of about 17°. The extended model delivers a significantly improved accuracy in springback prediction in relation to the initial prediction (deviation of 4°) with a minor deviation of only about 0.8°, which proves the importance of considering the gradation of material properties in thickness direction for an overall higher dimensional accuracy of sheet metal products.
Feasibility of Remote Unsupervised Cognitive Screening With SATURN in Older Adults
Authors: Tagliabue Chiara F. , Bissig David , Kaye Jeffrey , Mazza Veronica , Assecondi Sara
Published: March 2023

Widespread cognitive test screening as part of tele-public health initiatives necessitates a test that is self-administered online and automatically scored, with no clinician effort. The feasibility of unsupervised cognitive screening is unclear. We adapted the Self-Administered Tasks Uncovering Risk of Neurodegeneration (SATURN) to make it suitable for self-administration and automatic scoring. A sample of 364 healthy older adults completed SATURN via a web browser, in a fully independent manner. SATURN’s overall score was not modulated by gender, education, reading speed, the time of day at which the test was taken, or an individual’s familiarity with technology. SATURN proved extremely portable across operating systems. Importantly, comments from participants reported satisfaction with the experience and the clarity of the instructions. SATURN represents a fast and easy screening tool that can be used for a first assessment, during a routine test or clinical evaluation, or during periodic health monitoring, in person or remotely.
Silk fibroin-hydroxyapatite scaffolds promote the proliferation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells by activating the ERK signal
Authors: Xie Xingqiao , Miao Bianliang , Yao Jinrong , Chen Zhongchun
Published: March 2023

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (Ad-MSC) with capacities of releasing trophic factors and chondrogenic differentiation was a promising candidate for tracheal reconstruction. Silk fibroin (SF)- hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds were fabricated by the freeze-drying method. And Ad-MSCs were co-cultured on the scaffolds for 14 days in vitro. The role of the SF-HA scaffold in regulating the adhesion, growth, and proliferation of Ad-MSCs, and its potential mechanisms were investigated. The identity of Ad-MSCs was confirmed by cell morphology, surface markers, and differentiation characteristics. Cell proliferation, viability, and morphology were observed via CCK-8, live/dead assay, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Gene mRNA and protein levels were examined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. SF-HA scaffolds showed excellent properties of promoting Ad-MSCs adhesion, growth, and proliferation for at least 14 days. In the CCK-8 assay, the relative OD value of Ad-MSCs cultured on SF-HA scaffolds increased ( p < 0.001). Furthermore, live/dead staining showed that the fluorescent coverage increased with time ( p < 0.05). SEM also showed that 3 days after inoculation, the coverage of Ad-MSCs on the SF-HA scaffolds was 78.15%, increased to 92.91% on day 7, and reached a peak of 94.38% on day 14. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) mRNA and phosphorylated ERK (pERK) protein expression increased at day 3 ( p < 0.05), followed by a significant decline at day 7 ( p < 0.05). And ERK mRNA expression was positively correlated with Ad-MSCs proliferation ( p < 0.05). In summary, the SF-HA scaffold co-cultured with Ad-MSCs is a promising biomaterial for tracheal repair by activating the ERK signal pathway.
Advances in aerodynamics of power turbines for marine and aviation applications
Authors: Gao Jie , Zhao Tianxiao , Wu Siyu , Ouyang Yuqing , Niu Xiying , Zheng Qun
Published: March 2023

The use of power turbines has the advantage of flexible output load adjustment, and is a major configuration of marine gas turbines and aviation turboshaft/turboprop engines. Marine gas turbines and aviation turboshafts and turboprop engines generally have multiple working states and multiple working conditions change laws, which cause the aerodynamic performance of power turbines to fluctuate greatly with changes in working conditions, and different variable working conditions have a severe impact on the turbine loss characteristics. Therefore, it is necessary to deeply understand the internal flow mechanism of power turbines under off-design working conditions in different power turbine application modes, and carry out researches on the design methods of power turbines under wide working conditions. This paper summarizes and analyzes the recent advances in the field of aerodynamics of power turbines for marine and aviation applications. This review covers the following topics that are important for power turbine designs: (1) turbine flow loss prediction models under multiple operating conditions, (2) aerodynamic design and flow mechanism of power turbines for marine gas turbines, (3) aerodynamics of variable speed power turbines for turboshaft/turboprop engines, and (4) other issues about power turbines for marine and turboshaft/turboprop engines. The emphasis is placed on the aerodynamic design and flow mechanism of marine and aviation power turbines. We also present our own insights regarding the current research trends and the prospects for future developments.
Analysis of flow characteristics and throttling loss of a novel high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve
Authors: Chengdu Xu , Yan Ren , Hesheng Tang , Lizhong Lu , Yu Huang , Jian Ruan
Published: March 2023

High-speed on-off valve uses its high-frequency characteristics to realize the switching effect of fast opening and closing or generate relatively continuous pressure and flow. Compared with the conventional direct acting structure, the frequency of reciprocating sliding of the valve spool is limited due to the need to overcome the large inertial force, while the valve spool of the rotary valve structure can easily achieve continuous and rapid rotary movement, which makes it easier to quickly open or close the hydraulic valve. Therefore, a novel high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve is proposed. Through the two-dimensional rotary valve, the fluid is discretized in the form of fluid pulse width modulation to realize the flow distribution according to the demand of the system actuator. The spool has two independent degrees of freedom: the rotary motion of the spool is used to control the frequency of the fluid pulse width modulation and the axial displacement of the spool is used to control its width. Inspired by the working principle of the high-speed on-off valve to realize the instantaneous release of energy by quickly opening action, the flow characteristics and throttling loss of two-dimensional rotary valve are analyzed. The shape of the valve port of the high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve is designed, flow field models with different valve port angle are established and the throttling loss of the valve port is obtained, which is verified by the simulation and the experiment. The working principle of two-dimensional rotary valve is similar to the high-speed on-off valve group, but compared with the high-speed on-off valve using the electric signal control mode, two-dimensional rotary valve can control the flow only by controlling the axial position of the valve spool. The high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve using fluid pulse width modulation is expected to be used in variable system, load sensing system, distributed power source and other systems with variable and energy-saving requirements.
Book review: Samudra Gupta Kashyap, India-Bangladesh: Fifty Years of Friendship
Authors: Pattanaik Smruti S.
Published: March 2023

Samudra Gupta Kashyap, India-Bangladesh: Fifty Years of Friendship. ICWA and Pentagon Press, 2022, pp. 98, ₹850, ISBN: 978-93-90095-54-4.
Fashioning a ‘Buddhist’ Himalayan Cartography: Sikkim Darbar and the Cabinet Mission Plan
Authors: Chawla Swati
Published: March 2023

In the months leading up to the transfer of power in India, the eastern Himalayan kingdom of Sikkim made several representations to the Cabinet Mission and other constitutional bodies that were giving shape to the successor Indian government. The Sikkim Darbar was worried that its ambiguous position under colonial treaties might lead India to treat it as one of the five-hundred odd princely states that were slowly merging with the union. In letters, memoranda, legal briefs, and personal meetings, the Darbar argued that it was racially, religiously, socially, and culturally distinct from India, and that its allegiance lied to its north with Tibet. This article traces the vocabulary for the Sikkim Darbar’s assertion of difference from India back to the racialised imperial writing and realpolitik that had informed colonial policy towards the Himalayan states since the nineteenth century, most notably Olaf Caroe’s 1940 thesis on the ‘Mongolian Fringe’. This archival evidence emphasises Sikkimese agency and helps excavate an imagination of the Himalaya from within the region. The article also nuances the history of the forging of Indian republic by foregrounding the processes of negotiation and compromise that continued to shape the territorial contours of the Indian nation long after the moment of decolonisation. 1
Correlation of Calculated Vancomycin Trough Concentrations and Exposure: A Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Haag Hans , Lau Anthony
Published: March 2023

Background:

Current recommendations are to dose vancomycin to target 24-hour area under the curve (AUC) of 400-600 mg·h/L to optimize efficacy and safety. Limited data support AUC monitoring, and some centers continue to use trough concentrations. A target of 10-20 mg/L has been proposed to reduce nephrotoxicity risk.

Objective:

To use previously published pharmacokinetic equations in a Monte Carlo simulation relating AUC exposure to trough concentrations when targeting an AUC between 400 and 600 mg·h/L.

Methods:

Previously published pharmacokinetic data were used as input parameters for a Monte Carlo simulation using previously published formulae to correlate AUC to simulated trough concentrations. Pharmacokinetic parameters were assumed to occur in a normal distribution pattern. We excluded irrelevant simulated cases. Maintenance doses of 15 mg/kg were rounded to the nearest 250 mg. Calculated trough concentrations for AUCs of both 400 and 600 mg·h/L were evaluated in each simulation.

Results:

A total of 10 000 Monte Carlo simulations were performed. Targeting an AUC of 400 mg·h/L resulted in a mean trough concentration of 10.3 ± 0.8 mg/L. Targeting an AUC of 600 mg·h/L resulted in a mean trough concentration of 15.4 ± 1.2 mg/L.

Conclusion and Relevance:

We demonstrate that a lower trough concentration range may be supported by an AUC of 400-600 mg·h/L, which may reduce risk and rates of nephrotoxicity without compromising previously established efficacious target trough concentrations.
Changes in corneal endothelial cell density after trabeculectomy
Authors: Lee Natalie Si-Yi , Ong Ru Min , Ong Keith
Published: March 2023

Background

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide for which trabeculectomy is the most effective surgical intervention for advanced disease. However, trabeculectomy has been associated with alterations to corneal endothelium, including a decrease in corneal endothelial cell density (CECD). The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in CECD after trabeculectomy, and identify factors contributing to cell loss, such as pre-operative biometry and lens status.

Methods

This retrospective study included 72 eyes of 60 patients who underwent trabeculectomy between January 2018 and June 2021 at two private hospitals. Demographic and clinical data were obtained at baseline. Corneal specular microscopy was performed pre-operatively and at 6 months after surgery. CECD was evaluated and compared between groups to quantify changes to corneal endothelium and identify significant factors affecting decreases in cell density.

Results

Mean CECD was 2284.66 ± 375.59 pre-operatively and 2129.52 ± 401.96 after 6 months ( p < 0.001). A greater decrease in CECD ( p = 0.005) was observed in phakic eyes (235.45 ± 118.32) compared to pseudophakic eyes (137.82 ± 107.30). The amount of cell loss was negatively correlated with pre-operative central corneal thickness ( p = 0.009) and anterior chamber (AC) depth ( p = 0.033). There were no significant correlations between changes to CECD and patient age, gender, number of pre-operative glaucoma medications and number of post-operative antifibrotic agents.

Conclusions

Significant decreases in CECD occurred after trabeculectomy. Less corneal endothelial cell loss occurred in pseudophakic eyes. Hence, if patients need trabeculectomy and cataract surgery, it may be better to perform cataract surgery first. Longer term studies should derive more information.
Latrine Utilization and Associated Factors Among Rural Households in Southwest Ethiopia: Risk, Attitude, Norms, Ability, and Self-Regulation Behavioral Model
Authors: Bamlaku Golla Eyasu , Gelgelu Temesgen Bati , Deguale Adane Mikael , Tsegaye Giday Tesfaye , Asres Abiyot Wolie , Adafrie Takele Tadesse
Published: March 2023

Background:

Consistent latrine utilization remains a challenge in most rural areas of poor and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. Therefore; the objective of this study was to determine the magnitude of latrine utilization and its associated factors among rural households in open defecation-free declared (ODF) and non-ODF kebeles, Southwest Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods:

A community-based comparative cross sectional study design was employed from May 16 to June 14, 2022 among 682 (341 ODF and 341 non-ODF) rural households which were selected by multistage systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected by face to face using a pretested structured questionnaire and an observational checklist through Open data kit. SPSS version 26 was used to analysis the data and separate logistic regression models; ODF and non-ODF were run to identify the associated factors. P-values <.05 with 95% CI were set as statistical significant.

Result:

The overall magnitude of latrine utilization in the study area was 67.1% (95% CI: 63.71, 70.49). Latrine utilization was higher in ODF declared households (71.6%) than in non-ODF households (62.5%). In ODF; Graduated as model households [AOR = 5.1, 95% CI: 2.14, 12.84], visited by health extension works (HEWs) [AOR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.67, 7.25], and latrine with privacy [AOR = 3.0, 95% CI: 1.37, 6.65] and also in non-ODF; households visited by HEWs [AOR = 2.9, 95% CI: 1.34, 6.06], latrine with privacy [AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.24, 5.07], positive attitude [AOR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.52, 6.59], and descriptive norm [AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.27, 5.53] were significantly associated with latrine utilization.

Conclusion:

This study found that rural households declared as ODF utilize their latrine higher than non-ODF. Constructing latrine without privacy, lack of follow up, Attitude and societal norms were factors that limited the utilization of latrine and the sustainability of ODF. Therefore, health extension follow-up, latrine construction with privacy, normative and persuasive behavior change approach should be encouraged.
Conceptualizing platformed conspiracism: Analytical framework and empirical case study of BitChute and Gab
Authors: Mahl Daniela , Zeng Jing , Schäfer Mike S
Published: March 2023

This article introduces the notion of platformed conspiracism to conceptualize reconfigured forms of conspiracy theory communication as a result of the mutual shaping between platform specificities and emergent user practices. To investigate this relational socio-technological shaping, we propose a conceptual platform-sensitive framework that systematically guides the study of platformed conspiracism. To illustrate the application of the framework, we examine how platformed conspiracism unfolds on BitChute and Gab during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings show that both platforms have positioned themselves as technological equivalents to their “mainstream” counterparts, YouTube and Twitter, by offering similar interfaces and features. However, given their specific services, community-based and politically marketed business models, and minimalist approaches to content moderation, both platforms provide conspiracy propagators a fertile refuge through which they can diversify their presence and profit monetarily from their supply of conspiracy theories and active connection with their followers.
Prosecutors as punishers: A case study of Trump-era practices
Authors: Lynch Mona
Published: March 2023

Recent punishment and society scholarship has addressed the limits of policy reforms aimed at reducing mass incarceration in the U.S. This work has focused in particular on the political dimensions of penal legal reform and policy-making, and the compromises and shortcomings in those processes. Nearly absent in this scholarship, however, has been empirical and theoretical engagement with the role of front-line prosecutors as facilitators and/or resistors to downsizing efforts. Using the case of the U.S. federal criminal legal system's modest efforts to decrease the system's racially disparate and punitive outcomes, this paper elucidates the fragile nature of such reforms by delineating the critical role that front-line prosecutors play in maintaining punitive approaches. Focusing specifically on federal prosecutorial policy and practices in the Trump era, I draw on a subset of data from an interdisciplinary, multi-methodological project set in distinct federal court jurisdictions in the U.S. to examine how front-line prosecutors were able to quickly reverse course on reform through the use of their uniquely powerful charging and plea-bargaining tools. My findings illustrate how federal prosecutors pursued more low-level defendants, and utilized statutory “hammers,” including mandatory minimums and mandatory enhancements to ensure harsh punishments in a swift return to a war-on-crime.
International or Internationalised? Exploring issues faced by international schools in local markets: a Cyprus case study
Authors: Elerian Martyna , Solomou Emilios A
Published: March 2023

The growing popularity and diversity of international schools worldwide has resulted in the identification of several typologies of such schools based on different factors of significance. The largest growth in numbers of international schools is now occurring in local markets, with many having a large number of host-country students and to some extent incorporating both national and international curriculum and customs. In this article we discuss the institutional and social issues that may be faced by such schools in terms of their curriculum and their identity, as well as socio-linguistic aspects. We discuss the global and local perspectives that drive and challenge the internationalisation of these schools, with a focus in particular on the context of Cyprus.
What’s the purpose? Meaning making, sensemaking, and the (mis)appropriation of purpose beyond profit
Authors: Regele Matthew D
Published: March 2023

Organizations are increasingly adopting “purposes beyond profit” that combine aspirational social aims with profit goals. Often, however, the social aims seem to be subordinated to profit goals when business strategies are implemented. This study builds new theory about why this is the case through an inductive, ethnographic investigation of a textbook company adopting a purpose beyond profit. I find employees first responded to the new purpose by engaging in individual meaning making. The resulting meanings shaped interactions with colleagues and allowed career-oriented employees to misappropriate the beyond profit elements of purpose for personal gain. As a result, a significant divide emerged between how the beyond profit elements of purpose were discussed and the mostly superficial ways in which they were pursued. Together these findings highlight previously unrecognized implications of adopting a purpose beyond profit, including how it can be turned on itself.
Using deep learning to generate design spaces for architecture
Authors: Sebestyen Adam , Hirschberg Urs , Rasoulzadeh Shervin
Published: March 2023

We present an early prototype of a design system that uses Deep Learning methodology—Conditional Variational Autoencoders (CVAE)—to arrive at custom design spaces that can be interactively explored using semantic labels. Our work is closely tied to principles of parametric design. We use parametric models to create the dataset needed to train the neural network, thus tackling the problem of lacking 3D datasets needed for deep learning. We propose that the CVAE functions as a parametric tool in itself: The solution space is larger and more diverse than the combined solution spaces of all parametric models used for training. We showcase multiple methods on how this solution space can be navigated and explored, supporting explorations such as object morphing, object addition, and rudimentary 3D style transfer. As a test case, we implemented some examples of the geometric taxonomy of “Operative Design” by Di Mari and Yoo.
Healthy Foods in Convenience Stores: Benefits, Barriers, and Best Practices
Authors: Haboush-Deloye Amanda L. , Knight M. Amaris , Bungum Nicole , Spendlove Sierra
Published: March 2023

Accessing healthy food is a challenge for many. Healthy corner store initiatives have proven successful at promoting healthy food access nationwide. Recent data suggest that 11.8% of Clark County residents and 17.1% of Henderson, Nevada, residents experienced food insecurity. It is crucial to assess the current perceptions and practices of the community before pursuing policy change to ensure that pilot programs reflect its members’ needs. This study aimed to identify which healthy foods consumers would like to see offered in convenience stores, assess purchasing behaviors, and explore barriers preventing store owners from carrying healthy foods. In doing so, this study aimed to ensure that the needs of owners and consumers are reflected in local policy changes. Project staff collected data through two approaches: (a) convenience store owner interviews (n = 2; who represented eight stores total) and (b) consumer intercept surveys (n = 88) within low-income census tracts of Henderson, Nevada. The cost of healthy foods—for storeowners and consumers—was a major factor when selecting items to stock. Storeowners also described key contextual barriers such as minimum purchasing requirements, city regulations limiting promotions, and healthy, fresh food not being in high enough demand for the many transient customers passing through. Survey respondents’ most commonly reported barrier to accessing healthy food was their lack of availability in convenience stores, suggesting it would be beneficial if stores offered healthier options to increase access. The results of this study will inform the community’s next steps to increase access to healthy foods, including implementing a pilot healthy corner store project and a City-sponsored marketing campaign. Our methods and lessons learned may be useful for other municipalities considering health corner and convenience store initiatives.
The Opioid Response Project: An Effective Learning Collaborative for Local Communities?
Authors: Livet Melanie , Richard Chloe , Gangi Emily Williamson
Published: March 2023

The Opioid Response Project (ORP) was designed as an intensive 2-year health promotion learning collaborative grounded in the Collective Impact Model (CIM) to prepare ten local communities to address the opioid crisis. The purpose of this evaluation was to describe the ORP implementation, provide a summary of the evaluation results, share insights, and discuss implications. Results were informed by multiple data sources, including project documents, surveys, and interviews with members of the ORP and community teams. Based on process evaluation results, 100% of community teams reported being satisfied with the ORP and recommended this experience to others. ORP participation outputs ranged from new opioid response programs, to strengthened community teams, to receipt of additional funding. Based on the outcome evaluation, the ORP was effective at increasing community knowledge and capacity, promoting collaboration, and facilitating sustainability. This initiative is an example of an effective learning collaborative to curb the opioid epidemic at the community level. Participating communities found great value in working together as part of a larger cohort and reported benefits from the peer learning and support provided by the ORP. In particular, access to technical assistance, identification of engagement strategies within and across community teams, and a focus on sustainability are key practice components to be included in learning collaboratives designed to address large-scale public health issues.
Evaluating the Effect of Descriptive Norms on Political Tolerance
Authors: Neuner Fabian G. , Ramirez Mark D.
Published: March 2023

Recent scholarship has documented changing norms toward political tolerance and an increase in intolerant beliefs in the United States. Descriptive norm theory attributes attitudinal and behavioral changes to beliefs about how we perceive other people think and act. Applied to political tolerance, increasing the perception that society is more or less tolerant should result in corresponding changes among individuals. Neglected from this discussion, however, is the distinction between norms that are applied universally and norms that are applied to specific targets. Four studies show mixed support for descriptive norm theory with norms altering individual tolerance judgments mostly when applied universally. Norms aimed at a particularistic group fail to change tolerance judgments suggesting an important limitation to norm influence. Contrary to expectations, we uncover a reversal effect among Democrats whereby exposure to universalistic norms of intolerance leads to higher levels of tolerance.
GOLM1 Promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Activating TGFβ1/Smad2 Signaling in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Qin Xuke , Liu Lin , Li Yanze , Luo Hongbo , Chen Hui , Weng Xiaodong
Published: March 2023

Background: Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men worldwide. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is considered to play a crucial role in the development of the metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, which causes the majority of the death cases in PC. Golgi membrane protein 1 (GOLM1) is highly expressed in PC and has been identified as a driver factor for EMT in various cancers. However, its biological functions and underlying mechanisms remain ambiguous in PC. Method: GOLM1 expression level of PC was detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry analyses. To investigate GOLM1 functions in cancer cells, we overexpressed and knocked down GOLM1 in different prostate cancer cell lines. Transwell assay and wound healing assay were used to determine the role of GOLM1 in cell EMT, such as migration and invasion abilities. TGF-β1/Smad2 signaling pathway downstream of GOLM1 was detected by Western blot and Transwell assay. Result: GOLM1 expression is up-regulated in PC and correlated with a worse prognosis. GOLM1 promotes the abilities of migration and invasion in PC cell lines (DU145 and LNCaP). Furthermore, TGF-β1/Smad2 signaling is positively regulated by GOLM1 to facilitate EMT in PC, whereas this role can be restored by TGF-β1 after GOLM1 knockdown or be abrogated by p-Smad inhibitor SB431542. Conclusion: GOLM1 is significantly upregulated in PC and acts as a critical oncogene by promoting PC cell EMT process by activating TGF-β1/Smad2 signaling pathway. Therefore, GOLM1 has the potential to be a biomarker for PC diagnosis and to predict the prognosis of PC patients. It is of great significance to seek effective and specific inhibitor of GOLM1 for PC treatment as well.
Direct Dose Prediction With Deep Learning for Postoperative Cervical Cancer Underwent Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy
Authors: Yu Wenliang , Xiao Chengjian , Xu Jiayi , Jin Juebin , Jin Xiance , Shen Lanxiao
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To predict the voxel-based dose distribution for postoperative cervical cancer patients underwent volumetric modulated arc therapy using deep learning models.

Method

A total of 254 patients with cervical cancer received volumetric modulated arc therapy in authors’ hospital from January 2018 to September 2021 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Two deep learning networks (3D deep residual neural network and 3DUnet) were adapted to train (203 cases) and test (51 cases) the feasibility and effectiveness of the prediction method. The performance of deep learning models was evaluated by comparing the results with those of treatment planning system according to metrics of dose-volume histogram of target volumes and organs at risk.

Results

The dose distributions predicted by deep learning models were clinically acceptable. The automatic dose prediction time was around 5 to 10 min, which was about one-eighth to one-tenth of the manual optimization time. The maximum dose difference was observed in D98 of rectum with a | δD| of 5.00 ± 3.40% and 4.88 ± 3.99% for Unet3D and ResUnet3D, respectively. The minimum difference was observed in the D2 of clinical target volume with a |δD| of 0.53 ± 0.45% and 0.83 ± 0.45% for ResUnet3D and Unet3D, respectively.

Conclusion

The 2 deep learning models adapted in the study showed the feasibility and reasonable accuracy in the voxel-based dose prediction for postoperative cervical cancer underwent volumetric modulated arc therapy. Automatic dose distribution prediction of volumetric modulated arc therapy with deep learning models is of clinical significance for the postoperative management of patients with cervical cancer.
Ruptured Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Aneurysm in a Patient With Celiac Artery Dissection: A Case Report
Authors: Shin Jiyoung , Hong Hyun Pyo , Kim Young-Wook
Published: March 2023

Unlike other visceral artery aneurysms, pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs) should be treated regardless of their size. There are no reports on PDAA associated with celiac artery (CA) dissection. We, here, report the case of a patient with a ruptured PDAA with concomitant CA dissection. A 44-year-old Korean man presented to the emergency room of another hospital 29 days ago due to a sudden onset of abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a large right retroperitoneal hematoma and CA dissection. Subsequently, aortography revealed no specific bleeding focus. He underwent conservative treatment for 16 days, including a transfusion, and then was referred to us. His abdominal CT angiography revealed a diminishing retroperitoneal hematoma, a 7 mm × 8 mm PDAA at the anterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm (PDA), and CA dissection. Selective celiac angiography revealed sluggish and diminished blood flow to the true lumen of the CA, and the hepatic, gastroduodenal, and splenic arteries were supplied by collaterals arising from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). We performed elective coil embolization of the anterior PDA using the right femoral approach.

We believe that postprocedural surveillance is required after CA dissection because of the potential risk of recurrent PDAA. Additionally, we suggest that hidden PDAA rupture should be considered for spontaneous retroperitoneal bleeding.
Machine Learning Algorithms Can Be Reliably Leveraged to Identify Patients at High Risk of Prolonged Postoperative Opioid Use Following Orthopedic Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Krivicich Laura M. , Jan Kyleen , Kunze Kyle N. , Rice Morgan , Nho Shane J.
Published: March 2023

Background: Machine learning (ML) has emerged as a method to determine patient-specific risk for prolonged postoperative opioid use after orthopedic procedures. Purpose: We sought to analyze the efficacy and validity of ML algorithms in identifying patients who are at high risk for prolonged opioid use following orthopedic procedures. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science Core Collection databases were queried for articles published prior to August 2021 for articles applying ML to predict prolonged postoperative opioid use following orthopedic surgeries. Features pertaining to patient demographics, surgical procedures, and ML algorithm performance were analyzed. Results: Ten studies met inclusion criteria: 4 spine, 3 knee, and 3 hip. Studies reported postoperative opioid use over 30 to 365 days and varied in defining prolonged use. Prolonged postsurgical opioid use frequency ranged from 4.3% to 40.9%. C-statistics for spine studies ranged from 0.70 to 0.81; for knee studies, 0.75 to 0.77; and for hip studies, 0.71 to 0.77. Brier scores for spine studies ranged from 0.039 to 0.076; for knee, 0.01 to 0.124; and for hip, 0.052 to 0.21. Seven articles reported calibration intercept (range: –0.02 to 0.16) and calibration slope (range: 0.88 to 1.08). Nine articles included a decision curve analysis. No investigations performed external validation. Thematic predictors of prolonged postoperative opioid use were preoperative opioid, benzodiazepine, or antidepressant use and extremes of age depending on procedure population. Conclusions: This systematic review found that ML algorithms created to predict risk for prolonged postoperative opioid use in orthopedic surgery patients demonstrate good discriminatory performance. The frequency and predictive features of prolonged postoperative opioid use identified were consistent with existing literature, although algorithms remain limited by a lack of external validation and imperfect adherence to predictive modeling guidelines.
Endovascular thrombectomy for distal vessel occlusion stroke: Single-center experience
Authors: Matsoukas Stavros , Paz Santiago Gomez , Kellner Christopher P , De Leacy Reade , Fifi Johanna T , Mocco J , Majidi Shahram
Published: March 2023

Background

The safety and efficacy of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in distal vessel occlusion (DVO) are not well described. We aimed to evaluate the technical feasibility and safety of EVT in patients with DVO.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive DVOs (defined as M3/M4, A1/A2, and P1/P2 occlusion) who underwent EVT within 24 h since last known well. The primary efficacy outcome was successful reperfusion (mTICI ≥ 2B). Secondary outcomes included successful recanalization with ≤3 passes. The safety outcome measures included the rate of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), all intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and symptomatic ICH (sICH).

Results

A total of 72 patients with DVO was identified: 39 (54%) with M3/M4, 13 (18%) with A1/A2, and 20 (28%) with P1/P2 occlusions. Admission NIHSS score median (IQR) was 12 (11), and 90% of the patients had baseline mRS ≤ 2. Thirty-six percent of the patients received intravenous thrombolytic therapy. Successful recanalization was achieved in 90% of the patients. The median number of passes was 2, with successful recanalization achieved with ≤3 passes in 83% of the patients. ICH was seen in 16% of the patients, including three SAHs. However, only one patient (1.4%) had sICH. Among 48 patients in whom 90-day outcome data were available, 33 (53.2%) had favorable clinical outcome (mRS ≤ 3). In a multivariable logistic regression, only baseline NIHSS was identified as an independent predictor of poor outcome.

Conclusion

This single-center real-world experience demonstrates that EVT in patients with DVO stroke is safe and feasible and may lead to improved clinical outcome.
Overview of ectopic pregnancy diagnosis, management, and innovation
Authors: Mullany Kellie , Minneci Madeline , Monjazeb Ryan , C. Coiado Olivia
Published: March 2023

Ectopic pregnancies are the leading cause of maternal mortality in the first trimester, with an incidence of 5%–10% of all pregnancy-related deaths. Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancies is difficult due to clinical mimics and non-specific symptoms of abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. The current standard for ectopic pregnancy diagnosis includes ultrasound imaging and β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) monitoring. In addition to β-hCG, serum markers are being explored as a potential for diagnosis, with activin-AB and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A specifically showing promise. Other diagnostic methods include endometrial sampling, with dilation and curettage showing the highest specificity; however, frozen section reduces the diagnostic timeline which may improve outcomes. Treatment options for confirmed ectopic pregnancies include medical, surgical, and expectant management. Chosen treatment methodology is based on β-hCG levels, hematologic stability, and risk of ectopic pregnancy rupture. Current innovations in ectopic pregnancy management aim to preserve fertility and include laparoscopic partial tubal resection with end-to-end anastomosis and uterine artery embolization with intrauterine infusion of methotrexate. Psychological interventions to improve patient mental health surrounding ectopic pregnancy diagnosis and treatment are also valuable innovations. This literature review aims to bring light to current ectopic pregnancy diagnostics, treatments, and future directions.
The active practice charter: Movement as medicine
Authors: Al-Zubaidi Hussain , Hassan Shahnaz
Published: March 2023

We are all familiar with the term prevention is better than cure. Physical inactivity is one of the major modifiable risk factors for preventable early death and when done in groups has a wealth of benefits for mental health. However, GPs and their teams have not always felt empowered to encourage their patients to move more. The active practice charter concerns a collaboration between GPs and Sport England that aims to support and inspire practices to take steps towards reducing sedentary behaviour and improve physical activity for staff and patients. The charter celebrates practices that have shown initiative in working towards this ever growing, vital goal for the nation’s health. Healthcare is changing with a push towards lifestyle medicine for all: its benefits are invaluable, the costs are low, and the side effects are minimal, so why not tap into this underused resource?