bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of fuzzy logic controller for positive output LUO converter
Authors: Kaliannan Premalatha
Published: September 2024

This paper describes the fuzzy logic controller (FLC) for a positive output LUO converter (POLC), which uses a voltage controller to achieve the output voltage regulation. The fourth-order POLC DC–DC converter produces positive output voltage utilizing the voltage lift technique. Due to the converter’s switching functions and its inherently time-varying nature, it exhibits a highly nonlinear dynamic response. To enhance the dynamic performance of the converter, controllers are designed using small signal model and frequency response analysis. The closed loop is used to evaluate converter performance in the presence of variations in reference voltage, source voltage and load disturbances. The power loss analysis of the converter is performed. The comparative results show that FLC gives good dynamic response for wide range of variations than the proportional–integral (PI) controller. The prototype model is built using dsPIC (30F4011) microcontroller, and the experimental results are presented to validate the simulation results.
Assessing the diffusion of photovoltaic technology and electric vehicles using system dynamics modeling
Authors: Zapata Sebastian , Gomez Duvan A , Aristizabal Andres Julian , Castaneda Monica , Romero-Gelves Jorge I
Published: September 2024

Amidst the sweeping changes in the global electricity and automotive sectors, we observe a rapid surge in the proliferation of distributed generation (DG) and electric vehicles (EVs), primarily driven by the widespread deployment of photovoltaic systems. The widespread embrace of EVs necessitates a dual approach of financial incentives and infrastructure development to enhance the appeal of these vehicles. The findings presented in this paper hold significant importance for policymakers, underscoring the urgency of transitioning toward sustainable decentralized power systems and promoting EV adoption. While this transition offers promising opportunities, it also presents formidable challenges. Successful integration of DG and EVs demands careful attention to policy and regulatory frameworks. Some experts advocate for simultaneous adjustments in design, addressing mobility limitations and offering incentives for DG and EVs. Given the multitude of uncertainties, the authors suggest employing a system dynamics model to analyze the impact of photovoltaic technology and EV diffusion. The paper concludes that, within the Colombian context, the potential exists, under specific conditions, to increase the adoption of solar panels and EVs in households. This, in turn, contributes to a reduction in CO2 emissions and a transformative shift in the composition of the automotive fleet toward EVs.
Efficacy Analysis of Endoscopic-Assisted Traditional Surgery and Traditional Surgery for Sinonasal Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Dai Xuezhong , Er Xia , Zhou Yang , Cui Liming , Li Liping
Published: September 2024

Object: To analyze the effect of traditional surgery and endoscope-assisted traditional surgery on patients with sinonasal malignant melanoma (SMM), and to explore the effective treatment of SMM. Methods: The clinicopathological data and surgical methods of 47 patients with SMM, diagnosed in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery at the Third People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province from October 2000 to June 2020, were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 26 cases were treated with traditional surgery, and 21 cases were treated with endoscope-assisted traditional surgery. The 3 and 5 year local recurrence and survival rates were monitored and compared. Results: The 3 year local recurrence rate was compared between the 2 groups: χ2 = 5.4558, P = .020 ( P < .05), the endoscope-assisted traditional surgery group had a lower 3 year local recurrence rate. The 3 year survival rate was compared between the 2 groups: χ2 = 1.0231, P = .312 ( P > .05), the difference in 3 year survival was not significant between the 2 groups. The 5 year local recurrence rate was compared between the 2 groups: χ2 = 4.4052, P = .036 ( P < .05), the endoscope-assisted traditional surgery group had a lower 5 year local recurrence rate. The 5 year survival rate was compared between the 2 groups: χ2 = 4.3085, P = .038 ( P < .05), the endoscope-assisted traditional surgery group had a higher 5 year survival rate. Therefore, there were significant differences in the local recurrence rates at 3 and 5 years, as well as the 5 year survival rate, between endoscope-assisted traditional surgery and traditional surgery in the treatment of SMM. Conclusion: Endoscope-assisted traditional surgery can remove local lesions of SMM more completely, reduce the local recurrence rate, and improve the 5 year survival rate of patients.
Is Doing Good Good Enough? A Motivation, Action, Sacrifice, and Temptation (MAST) View of Moral Praiseworthiness
Authors: Furr R. Michael , Prentice Mike , Hawkins Parham Ashley , Hartley Anselma G. , Fleeson William
Published: September 2024

We present the Motivation, Action, Sacrifice, and Temptation (MAST) view of moral praiseworthiness and evaluate four components shaping judgments of an actor’s morality: (a) How did the person act? (b) Why did the person act? (c) Did the person sacrifice something when acting? and (d) Was the person tempted to avoid the sacrifice? Across multiple moral domains, we evaluate moral impressions of hypothetical actors who acted ostensibly morally under different motivational, sacrificial, and temptational conditions. Across four studies (total N > 1,200) and 150 morally relevant scenarios, all components shaped moral impressions, with motivational purity having the strongest impact. Exploring motivation more deeply via Self-Determination Theory, we found effects of internalized (vs. externalized) motivations. Broadly speaking, judges prefer actors to act automatically and in an idealized manner rather than with deliberation and effort. This work address questions that have fascinated philosophers, psychologists, and laypeople, advancing understanding of moral impression formation.
Motivational Intensity in Emotion Regulation
Authors: Gutentag Tony , Kalokerinos Elise K. , Millgram Yael , Garrett Paul M. , Sobel Rachel , Tamir Maya
Published: September 2024

Changing how we feel can be adaptive, but it is also difficult and may require effort. There is research on what people want to achieve in emotion regulation (motivational content), but there is little research on how intensely people pursue what they want to achieve (motivational intensity). We tested the role of motivational intensity in emotion regulation, by assessing (Studies 1–2, Ns = 160 and 157) and manipulating (Study 3, N = 250) it in daily life. As predicted, when people were more motivated to make themselves feel better, they engaged more intensely in emotion-regulatory behaviors, experienced more desirable emotional experiences, and reported better psychological health. Furthermore, motivating people to make themselves feel better, increased their emotion-regulatory behaviors and led to better psychological health during COVID-19. Motivational intensity, therefore, may be an understudied factor facilitating emotional well-being.
Is Progressive Ideology on the Test? Education and Intelligence in the Development of Nontraditional Attitudes
Authors: Isen Joshua D. , Ludeke Steven G. , Bainbridge Timothy F. , McGue Matt K. , Iacono William G.
Published: September 2024

Enhanced educational attainment and intelligence are consistent correlates of socially liberal, nontraditional attitudes. However, it is unclear how such associations unfold developmentally. Here, we propose an interaction effect between college exposure and intelligence on the development of nontraditional attitudes. Our rationale builds from the fact that a desired learning outcome of college education is to challenge traditional dogma and encourage diverse perspectives. Those with higher intellectual ability should be particularly adept at understanding the intended lesson and to show attendant increases in nontraditional attitudes. Data on social attitudes were obtained in a large community sample of youth at age 17 and remeasured at two points in early adulthood ( N = 2,769). Intelligence was linked with growth in nontraditional attitudes among those with higher educational attainment; no such association was observed among individuals who never attended college. Environments that encourage critical inquiry may thus steer brighter individuals toward the adoption of progressive worldviews.
What Counts as Religion? A Study of Federal Endorsing Agencies as Hiring Gatekeepers
Authors: Tien Grace , Cadge Wendy
Published: September 2024

What counts as religion, and does the state perpetuate labor stratification on the basis of religion? The labor stratification literature suggests that employers often perpetuate gendered, racial, and socioeconomic inequality in hiring, but in this case study of state-appointed endorsing agencies, findings suggest that the federal government—a primary chaplain employer—perpetuates stratification by religion. Given the institutional separation of church and state, the state technically does not interfere with the free practice of religion or in constructing religion, but because federal sectors like the military, veterans affairs, and federal prisons require chaplains, the state appoints and recognizes specific groups—endorsing agencies—to vet and evaluate the preparation of chaplains to serve in these federal roles. Endorsing agencies thus act as state-appointed gatekeepers in a system set up by the state that has no clear change mechanism for expanding the number and type of religious endorsing agencies, resulting in the exclusion of religious groups in hiring. Drawing on qualitative data from endorsing agencies and complementary archival material, we argue that the state plays a role in setting up a system that both shapes and perpetuates labor stratification by religion. We conclude by discussing the implications for scholarship on religion, inequality, and labor stratification.
Revisiting the Rorty–Lyotard debate: The microchip and liberal cosmopolitanism
Authors: Diab Robert
Published: September 2024

In the mid-1980s, Richard Rorty debated aspects of Jean-François Lyotard’s evolving theories of language and politics, embracing the latter’s critique of metanarratives as forms of metaphysics we should discard but rejecting Lyotard’s claims about the incommensurability of language games. Largely overlooked was the force of Lyotard’s critique of the transvaluation of knowledge in the emerging digital age, canvased in The Postmodern Condition. This article revisits the encounter between these thinkers to reconstruct the more central challenge that Lyotard’s theory posed to Rorty’s pragmatic politics and to liberal cosmopolitanism more broadly. Lyotard’s work was prescient in detailing an emerging technological order in which ideals of tolerance and solidarity in the form of Rortian translation and redescription come into conflict with imperatives of performativity, profit-seeking, and power – fostering dominance rather than universal progress. The article concludes by drawing implications of the encounter for current scholarship on Rorty and political theory.
Persistent Educational Advantages of Asian Immigrants’ Children, 1940 to 2015–2019
Authors: Kim ChangHwan , Kim Andrew Taeho
Published: September 2024

The educational achievements of Asian American children, especially those from lower backgrounds, are substantially higher than other ethnoracial groups. Hyper-selectivity theory finds the origin of such an advantage in the double selectivity of Asian immigrants after the passage of the 1965 Immigration Act and the formation of cross-class community resources. Utilizing the 1940 linked full-count Census, 1940–2000 decennial censuses, and the 2008–2012 and 2015–2019 American Community Survey, this study tracks changes in the educational advantages of Asian immigrants’ children. Our results show that in contrast to the anticipated dependence of the educational achievements of Asian immigrants’ children on structural conditions, the educational advantages of Asian immigrants’ children have remained remarkably persistent over time and across geographical locations. The influx of highly educated Asian immigrants is not associated with an increase in the educational advantages of lower-background Asian Americans. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Immigrants in the Transnational Far Right: Integration through Racisms and Negotiating White Supremacy in a Migratory Context
Authors: Garapich Michal P. , Jochymek Anna , Soborski Rafał
Published: September 2024

Despite the historical and contemporary instances of immigrants and their descendants engaging with the far-right, whether through long-distance nationalism or country of residence politics, migration scholarship has surprisingly paid very little attention to this process. In this paper we argue that insufficient engagement with instances of the far-right attracting and mobilizing immigrants and ethnic minorities is a theoretical omission in both migration scholarship and scholarship of the far-right and is related to the reproduction of reified notions of “majority”’ and “minority,” normative assumptions about immigrants’ political activism as inevitably progressive, and methodological nationalism implicit in studying the far-right from a political science perspective. Through an analysis of a case study of Polish immigrants and their descendants in Britain, we demonstrate that these omissions can be bridged by paying more attention to relational processes of constructions of whiteness, the role of systemic racism, and the increasing transnationalization of the far-right. The cases we describe, captured through the notion of integration-through-racisms, are therefore a symptom of both increasing complexities of migration-driven diversity with threatened white privilege as the focus and dynamic changes in global far-right ideologies and strategies.
Thematic analysis of vocational identity among gifted young people using turning point narratives
Authors: Akgül Gülendam
Published: September 2024

The career choices of gifted students are significant both in terms of their potential contributions to society and their personal happiness and life satisfaction. The aim of this study was to identify themes of the turning points that influence gifted young people’s career decisions and to reveal which factors influence their vocational identity from a Narrative Identity Approach. Data were collected using open-ended questions from 17 (52.94% female, n = 9) gifted young people (age; M = 20.47, SD = 3.69). Data were analysed with reflexive thematic analysis, which identified five major themes (1) individual factors, (2) social factors, (3) giftedness, (4) career goals, and (5) exploration opportunities. Considering the first retrospective study examining gifted students’ vocational identity, career guidance might benefit from tailored interventions that account for their unique characteristics, goals, personal and social factors as well as maximizing exploration opportunities.
Very high cycle fatigue properties of ultrahigh strength steels in the presence of hydrogen
Authors: Yu Wenchao , Lv Wanqing , He Xiaofei , Zhu Shipeng , Wang Maoqiu , Shi Jie
Published: September 2024

The very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) properties of 2000 MPa ultrahigh strength martensitic steels after hydrogen pre-charging were investigated by means of ultrasonic fatigue tests. Results showed that the VHCF lives of the experimental steels were drastically decreased by about two orders after pre-charged with a hydrogen concentration of CH = 1.23 wppm. The experimental steel tempered at a higher temperature of 300 °C with some epsilon-carbides and a lower density of dislocations showed higher VHCF lives in the presence of hydrogen. It could be attributed to the lower hydrogen diffusion coefficient since hydrogen might accelerate fatigue crack propagation in the granular bright facet (GBF) area.
Influence of hydrothermal time on anti-corrosion property of slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces on AZ31 magnesium alloys
Authors: Qin Jie , Yao Wenhui , Wu Liang , Pan Fusheng
Published: September 2024

To enhance anti-corrosion property of AZ31 magnesium alloys, slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPSs) were prepared on benzoate-intercalated Mg-Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs). The typical morphology of SLIPSs was determined using a scanning electron microscope, and the successful loading of benzoate ions was confirmed by an X-ray diffractometer (XRD). Especially, this work focused on revealing how hydrothermal time affected the resistance to corrosion of SLIPSs. The electrochemical results indicated that when the hydrothermal duration was 24 h, the developed SLIPS exhibited remarkably improved corrosion resistance accompanied by the lowest corrosion current density of 2.5 × 10−3 μA cm−2. Furthermore, the results of immersion test demonstrated the superiority of SLIPSs in anti-corrosion durability. Based on the obtained results, the prepared SLIPSs can be promising candidates for the improvement in anti-corrosion performance of magnesium alloys.
Populist alone, but harmless together? Analysing inter- and transnational populism of EP parties ID and ECR on Facebook
Authors: Peters Yannik , Schlußmeier Jakob
Published: September 2024

Right-wing populist parties are highly successful in online communication and have made electoral gains in a wide range of European countries. In the European Parliament, until the recent European elections in 2024, the majority of them were distributed between the two party alliances and parliamentary groups Identity and Democracy (ID) and European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR). To analyse their communicative strategies, we collected all Facebook posts of the party and parliamentary group accounts of ID and ECR ( N = 616) within one year (08/21–08/22). Subsequently, structural topic modelling (STM), sentiment analysis and manual content analysis were applied to determine their communication strategies. Overall, the results indicate that ECR and ID are communicating rather moderately online. However, while ECR differs significantly from its national member parties, ID seems to reproduce right-wing populist narratives. Overall, this paper argues for a stronger focus on European party alliances, not only national parties, when researching right-wing populist communication in the EU.
Effectiveness of Pilates compared with home-based exercises in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain: Randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tottoli Caroline Ribeiro , Ben Ângela Jornada , da Silva Everton Nunes , Bosmans Judith E , van Tulder Maurits , Carregaro Rodrigo Luiz
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of a Pilates exercise program compared with home-based exercises in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain.

Design

A randomised controlled trial with a six-month follow-up.

Setting

Rehabilitation clinic.

Participants

One hundred and forty-five individuals (18–50 years of age) with low back pain for ≥ 12 consecutive weeks were enrolled and randomly allocated to either Pilates ( n = 72) or home-based exercise groups ( n = 73).

Interventions

Method Pilates (Mat Pilates exercises using accessories) versus home-based exercise (postural exercises, muscle stretching and strengthening, and spine stabilisation/mobilisation), twice a week, for 6 weeks.

Main measures

Assessments were performed at baseline, post-intervention, and six months follow-up. Outcomes were pain intensity, disability, and health-related quality of life.

Results

At post-intervention, the Pilates group had significantly lower pain intensity (mean difference = −1.14; 95% CI −2.05; −0.23), less disability (mean difference = −6.7; 95% CI −11.3; −2.0), and higher health-related quality of life (mean difference = 0.102; 95% CI 0.054; 0151) compared to the home-based exercise group. At follow-up, the Pilates group had a significantly higher health-related quality of life (mean difference = 0.055; 95% CI 0.003; 0.106) compared with the home-based exercise group but there were no significant differences in pain and disability. A significant overall effect of Pilates compared to home-based exercise was found for disability (mean difference = −4.4; 95% CI −7.6; −1.1), and health-related quality of life (mean difference = 0.049; 95% CI 0.022; 0.076), but not for pain.

Conclusion

Although Pilates was significantly superior to home exercise for pain and disability, the differences were not considered clinically relevant. However, Pilates did provide significant and clinically relevant differences in utility.
Practice review: Pharmacological management of severe chronic breathlessness in adults with advanced life-limiting diseases
Authors: Simon Steffen T , Higginson Irene J , Bausewein Claudia , Jolley Caroline J , Bajwah Sabrina , Maddocks Matthew , Wilharm Carolin , Oluyase Adejoke O. , Pralong Anne ,   BETTER-B Consortium
Published: September 2024

Background:

Severe and refractory chronic breathlessness is a common and burdensome symptom in patients with advanced life-limiting disease. Its clinical management is challenging because of the lack of effective interventions.

Aim:

To provide practice recommendations on the safe use of pharmacological therapies for severe chronic breathlessness.

Design:

Scoping review of (inter)national guidelines and systematic reviews. We additionally searched for primary studies where no systematic review could be identified. Consensus on the recommendations was reached by 75% approval within an international expert panel.

Data sources:

Searches in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and Guideline International Network until March 2023. Inclusion of publications on the use of antidepressants, benzodiazepines, opioids or corticosteroids for chronic breathlessness in adults with cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease or chronic heart failure.

Results:

Overall, the evidence from eight guidelines, 14 systematic reviews and 3 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on antidepressants is limited. There is low quality evidence favouring opioids in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer and interstitial lung disease. For chronic heart failure, evidence is inconclusive. Benzodiazepines should only be considered for anxiety associated with severe breathlessness. Antidepressants and corticosteroids should not be used.

Conclusion:

Management of breathlessness remains challenging with only few pharmacological options with limited and partially conflicting evidence. Therefore, pharmacological treatment should be reserved for patients with advanced disease under monitoring of side effects, after optimisation of the underlying condition and use of evidence-based non-pharmacological interventions as first-line treatment.
Long-read sequencing of CYP2D6 may improve psychotropic prescribing and treatment outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kaptsis Dean , Lewis Martin , Sorich Michael , Battersby Malcolm
Published: September 2024

Background:

The enzyme expression (i.e. phenotype) of the Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) gene is highly relevant to the metabolism of psychotropic medications, and therefore to precision medicine (i.e. personalised prescribing).

Aims:

This review aims to assess the improvement in CYP2D6 phenotyping sensitivity (IPS) and accuracy (IPA) offered by long-read sequencing (LRS), a new genetic testing technology.

Methods:

Human DNA samples that underwent LRS genotyping of CYP2D6 in published, peer-reviewed clinical research were eligible for inclusion. A systematic literature search was conducted until 30 September 2023. CYP2D6 genotypes were translated into phenotypes using the international consensus method. IPS was the percentage of non-normal LRS CYP2D6 phenotypes undetectable with FDA-approved testing (AmpliChip). IPA was the percentage of LRS CYP2D6 phenotypes mischaracterised by non-LRS genetic tests (for samples with LRS and non-LRS data).

Results:

Six studies and 1411 samples were included. In a meta-analysis of four studies, IPS was 10% overall (95% CI = (2, 18); n = 1385), 20% amongst Oceanians (95% CI = (17, 23); n = 582) and 2% amongst Europeans (95% CI = (1, 4); n = 803). IPA was 4% in a large European cohort (95% CI = (2, 7); n = 567). When LRS was used selectively (e.g. for novel or complex CYP2D6 genotypes), very high figures were observed for IPS (e.g. 88%; 95% CI = (72, 100); n = 17; country = Japan) and IPA (e.g. 76%; 95% CI = (55, 98); n = 17; country = Japan).

Conclusions:

LRS improves CYP2D6 phenotyping compared to established genetic tests, particularly amongst Oceanian and Japanese individuals, and those with novel or complex genotypes. LRS may therefore assist in optimising personalised prescribing of psychotropic medications. Further research is needed to determine associated clinical benefits, such as increased medication safety and efficacy.
Retrospective study of ureteral stenosis after holmium laser lithotripsy
Authors: He Jia Wei
Published: September 2024

Objective

To identify the factors influencing postoperative ureteral stenosis following holmium laser lithotripsy.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of 106 patients who underwent ureteroscopic holmium laser lithotripsy. The effects of variables including stone location, stone size, the duration of surgery, water intake, disease duration, and stone-associated polyps were investigated.

Results

Logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations of ureteral stenosis with stone location, stone size, duration of surgery, water intake, disease duration, and stone-associated polyps. Patients with proximal stones, with large stones, who underwent long surgical procedures, who drank a large amount of water, who had long-term disease, and who had stone-related polyps were more likely to develop postoperative ureteral stenosis.

Conclusion

Significant perioperative complications of holmium laser lithotripsy are associated with prolonged disease, large ureteral stones, long incarceration periods, and the presence of polyps. Surgeons should consider these risk factors during the preoperative evaluation of patients and surgical planning to minimize the risk of postoperative ureteral stenosis.
Periprosthetic bone mineral density, assessed using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, following arthroplasty in patients with femoral neck fracture: 5-year outcomes of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ugland Stein H. , Ugland Terje O. , Haugeberg Glenn , Pripp Are H. , Nordsletten Lars
Published: September 2024

Objective

The relationship between the surgical approach used for hemiarthroplasty and periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) is not well understood. We have previously described a decrease in BMD 1 year postoperatively. Here, we assessed the medium-term changes in periprosthetic BMD.

Methods

We performed a follow-up study of patients with femoral neck fracture (FNF) who underwent uncemented hemiarthoplasty using a direct lateral or anterolateral approach. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to evaluate the changes in BMD in 23 patients over 5 years.

Results

A mean 6% loss of total BMD occurred over 1 year, but between 1 and 5 years, BMD was restored to the baseline value. The mean total BMD in the anterolateral group had decreased by 2% after 3 months and 3% after 12 months, and increased by 2% after 5 years, vs. decreases of 7%, 8%, and 3% for the direct lateral group. Between 1 and 5 years, BMD increased in Gruen zones 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 in both groups. There was a significantly larger increase in zone 4 in the lateral group (4%) than the anterolateral group.

Conclusion

The surgical approach affects periprosthetic BMD in patients with FNF. Furthermore, BMD is restored to the baseline value 5 years postoperatively. ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT03753100.
Fine-tuning weibull distribution parameters in Morocco’s Tarfaya and Tangier wind farms using two-stage swarm optimization
Authors: Douiri Moulay Rachid
Published: September 2024

This study assesses the efficacy of particle swarm optimization (PSO) in estimating scale ( c) and shape ( k) parameters of the Weibull distribution model for wind energy forecasting at two key wind farm sites in Morocco— Tarfaya in the south and Tangier in the north, utilizing real wind data from 2022. Employing a novel square frequency error objective function to enhance parameter accuracy, the study adopts a two-stage training approach involving recursive least-square estimation and PSO fine-tuning. Validation with artificial data underscores PSO’s effectiveness under diverse wind conditions. Parameter sensitivity analysis identifies four optimal PSO configurations, with the PSO-4 model exhibiting superior performance. Comparative analysis against traditional and heuristic optimization methods consistently demonstrates PSO-4’s lowest root-mean-square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE), high coefficients of determination ( R2), and shortest computation time. The research highlights PSO-4 model as a precise and efficient tool for Weibull distribution parameter estimation in wind energy forecasting, showcasing robust convergence across both wind farm sites.
Are we closer to achieving precision medicine for migraine treatment? A narrative review
Authors: Ihara Keiko , Casillo Francesco , Dahshan Ahmed , Genç Hamit , Jusupova Asel , Karbozova Kunduz , Lee Wonwoo , Liaw Yi Chia , Mavridis Theodoros , Park Hong-Kyun , Polat Burcu , Unt Triin Helin , Vashchenko Nina , Zhantleuova Aisha , Pozo-Rosich Patricia , Schwedt Todd J.
Published: September 2024

Background

The term ‘precision medicine’ encompasses strategies to optimize diagnosis and outcome prediction and to tailor treatment for individual patients, in consideration of their unique characteristics. The greater availability of multifaceted datasets and strategies to model such data have made precision medicine increasingly possible in recent years. Precision medicine is especially needed in the migraine field since the response to migraine treatments is not universal amongst all individuals with migraine.

Objective

To provide a narrative review describing contributions to achieving precision medicine for migraine treatment.

Methods

A search of PubMed for English language articles of human participants published from 2005 to January 2024 was conducted to identify articles that reported research contributing to precision medicine for migraine treatment. The published literature was categorized and summarized according to the type of data that were included: clinical phenotypes, genomics, proteomics, physiologic measures, and brain imaging.

Results

Published studies have investigated characteristics associated with acute and preventive treatment responses, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, triptans, onabotulinumtoxinA, and anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide monoclonal antibodies, in patients with episodic or chronic migraine. There is evidence that clinical, genetic, epigenetic, proteomic, physiologic, and brain imaging features might associate with migraine treatment outcomes, although inconsistencies for such findings clearly exist.

Conclusions

The published literature suggests that there are clinical and biological features which associate with, and might be useful for predicting, migraine treatment responses. To achieve precision medicine for migraine treatment, further research is needed that validates and expands on existing findings and tests the accuracy and value of migraine treatment prediction models in clinical settings.
Effect of Medial or Lateral Graft Failure on Graft Volume and Clinical Outcomes After Superior Capsule Reconstruction for Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Shin Sang-Jin , Lee Sanghyeon
Published: September 2024

Background:

Graft failure is a common complication after superior capsule reconstruction (SCR). The graft in SCR is fixed on the greater tuberosity and superior glenoid, and graft failure has been reported on both sides.

Purpose:

To evaluate the clinical manifestations of patients with graft failure after SCR and identify the clinical and radiological differences between medial and lateral graft failure.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients who underwent SCR with a dermal allograft for symptomatic irreparable rotator cuff tears between March 2018 and September 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients had minimum 2-year follow-up and underwent magnetic resonance imaging at 6 months postoperatively. Patients with graft failure were divided into 2 groups: those with lateral graft failure on the greater tuberosity side (group I) and those with medial graft failure on the glenoid side (group II). Patients with intact grafts were included in group III as a control group. Intergroup differences in clinical and radiological characteristics were analyzed, and multiple regression analysis was performed.

Results:

Among the 93 patients included, there were 18 patients in group I, 15 in group II, and 60 in group III. Overall, 11 patients (61.1%) in group I and 9 patients (60.0%) in group II had a partial graft rupture at one anchor. The postoperative graft volume was significantly lower in group I than in groups II and III (2514.0 ± 564.3 mm3, 3183.5 ± 547.1 mm3, and 3198.0 ± 584.8 mm3, respectively; P = .002 for group I vs II; P < .001 for group I vs III). The acromiohumeral distance (AHD) was significantly increased at 6 months postoperatively compared with before surgery in group I (6.6 ± 1.6 mm vs 4.3 ± 1.9 mm, respectively; P < .001) and group II (7.4 ± 1.3 mm vs 5.7 ± 1.7 mm, respectively; P = .002). However, group I exhibited a significantly greater decrease in the AHD over time than group II ( P < .001) and a significantly lower AHD at the final follow-up than the other groups ( P < .001). The postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was significantly lower in group I than in the other groups ( P < .001). On multiple regression analysis, fatty infiltration of the infraspinatus muscle, Hamada grade, and graft width were independent factors for lateral graft failure.

Conclusion:

Patients with lateral graft failure had inferior clinical outcomes and lower postoperative graft volumes than those with medial graft failure after SCR using a dermal allograft. The AHD of patients with lateral graft failure improved postoperatively; however, it deteriorated over time.
Factors Influencing Long-term Outcomes After Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation: Long-term Results at 10 Years
Authors: Weishorn Johannes , Wiegand Johanna , Zietzschmann Severin , Koch Kevin-Arno , Rehnitz Christoph , Renkawitz Tobias , Walker Tilman , Bangert Yannic
Published: September 2024

Background:

Matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI), the third-generation of the technique, is an established procedure for the treatment of focal cartilage defects in the knee. However, the literature lacks long-term results of MACI with good statistical power.

Purpose:

To determine long-term survival and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in a representative cohort and to identify patient- and surgery-related parameters that may influence long-term clinical outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 103 patients were clinically evaluated at the current follow-up of 8.1 years (range, 5-11.9 years). PRO measures (PROMs) included the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), EQ-5D, visual analog scale for pain, and Tegner Activity Scale. Magnetic resonance imaging results were evaluated by using the AMADEUS (area measurement and depth and underlying structures) and MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) 2.0 knee score classification systems. Potential factors influencing PROs were first identified univariately and investigated in a multivariate regression model.

Results:

The defects had a mean size of 4.8 cm2 (range, 1.2-12 cm2) and were predominantly femorotibial (66%). The mean Kaplan-Meier survival rate of revision for any reason was 97.2% ± 1.6% at 10 years. In comparison to preoperative values, all PROMs were significantly improved at the current follow-up ( P < .05). The MOCART 2.0 score peaked at 12 months (mean, 80.2 ± 15.3 months) and showed no significant change at 96 months (mean, 76.1 ± 19.5 months; P = .142). The linear multivariate regression model identified an association of body mass index (BMI), MOCART 2.0 score, and number of previous knee surgeries with KOOS ( R2 = 0.41; f2 = 0.69). Further analysis of the individual determinants revealed an optimal BMI range of 20 to 29 for favorable PROs at 96 months. Significant correlations of MOCART subscores with the overall KOOS were found for graft surface and structure, bony reaction, and subchondral detectable changes. Only 30% of patients with2 previous surgeries and 20% of patients with 3 previous surgeries achieved a Patient Acceptable Symptom State (χ2 = 10.93; P = .012).

Conclusion:

The present study shows consistently good long-term clinical outcomes after MACI with a low revision rate and high patient satisfaction. BMI and number of previous knee surgeries may influence clinical outcomes and should be considered in patient selection and education. There is a correlation between graft structure, subchondral bone changes on magnetic resonance imaging, and long-term PROMs.
Relationship Between Neighborhood-Level Socioeconomic Status and Functional Outcomes After Hip Arthroscopy
Authors: Lee Jonathan S. , Rachala Rohit R. , Gillinov Stephen M. , Siddiq Bilal S. , Dowley Kieran S. , Cherian Nathan J. , Martin Scott D.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Despite the growing volume of neighborhood-level health disparity research, there remains a paucity of prospective studies investigating the relationship between Area Deprivation Index (ADI) and functional outcomes for patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

Purpose:

To investigate the relationship between neighborhood-level socioeconomic status and functional outcomes after hip arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed on patients aged ≥18 years with minimum 1-year follow-up who underwent hip arthroscopy for the treatment of symptomatic labral tears. The study population was divided into ADILow and ADIHigh cohorts according to ADI score: a validated measurement of neighborhood-level socioeconomic status standardized to yield a score between 1 and 100. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) included the modified Harris Hip Score, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score–Sports-Specific Subscale, 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool, visual analog scale for pain, and patient satisfaction.

Results:

A total of 228 patients met inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. After patients were stratified by ADI score (mean ± SD), the ADILow cohort (n = 113; 5.8 ± 3.0; range, 1-12) and ADIHigh cohort (n = 115; 28.0 ± 14.5; range, 13-97) had no differences in baseline patient demographics. The ADIHigh cohort had significantly worse preoperative baseline scores for all 5 PROMs; however, these differences were not present by 1-year follow-up. Furthermore, the 2 cohorts achieved similar rates of the minimal clinically important difference for all 5 PROMs and the Patient Acceptable Symptom State for 4 PROMs. When controlling for patient demographics, patients with higher ADI scores had greater odds of achieving the minimal clinically important difference for all PROMs except the 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool.

Conclusion:

Although hip arthroscopy patients experiencing a greater neighborhood-level socioeconomic disadvantage exhibited significantly lower preoperative baseline PROM scores, this disparity resolved at 1-year follow-up. In fact, when adjusting for patient characteristics including ADI score, more disadvantaged patients achieved greater odds of achieving the minimal clinically important difference. The present study is merely a first step toward understanding health inequities among patients seeking orthopaedic care. Further development of clinical guidelines and health policy research is necessary to advance care for patients from disadvantaged communities.
Epididymal sonographic findings in infertile males with isolated asthenozoospermia and their correlation with seminal plasma l-carnitine: An observational study
Authors: ElShibany Ahmed Mahmoud , Taha Emad Abd El Raheem , Kamal Dalia Tarek , GamalEl Din Sameh Fayek , Abo El Yamen Yasser Mohamed , Hasan Hosam A , Bakry Abdel Rahman
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

The present study aimed to show epididymal sonographic findings in infertile males with isolated asthenozoospermia as well as their correlation with seminal plasma l-carnitine.

Methods:

Eighty married men were recruited in the study. Fifty infertile men with isolated asthenozoospermia and 30 fertile controls with normal semen parameters were included. Semen analysis was done with estimation of seminal plasma l-carnitine level. Scrotal ultrasonography was used as the diagnostic method for assessing epididymal morphology.

Results:

Epididymal heterogeneous echogenicity was significantly higher in the infertile group compared to the controls. Whereas homogeneous epididymal echotexture and seminal plasma l-carnitine levels were significantly higher in the controls compared to the infertile patients. Interestingly, it was observed that within each group, seminal l-carnitine and sperm total motility were significantly higher in those with homogeneous rather than heterogeneous epididymal echotexture.

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrated a significant association between epididymal echo-texture, seminal plasma l-carnitine and sperm motility. Thus, we recommend performing epididymal sonographic evaluation as one of the basic investigations for infertile men.
Using committee amendments to improve estimates of state foreign policy preferences
Authors: Monroe Courtenay R , Monroe Nathan W , Hu Shengkuo
Published: September 2024

Ideal point estimates, used as measures of state foreign policy preference, are typically constructed from country votes cast on resolutions in the plenary of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). In this article, we argue that revealed preferences on UNGA votes are dependent on the procedural context in which they are cast. We develop a theory of measurement and show empirically that constructing estimates using committee amendment votes yields more precise scores for countries with preferences that do not fall in the center of the policy space. Scholars should consider using both plenary and committee votes when operationalizing foreign policy preferences.
Enhancing Adult Literacy in Morocco: A Quasi-Experimental Analysis of Program Effectiveness and Skill Development
Authors: Amine Douai Mohammed , Ayoub Saidi , Ahlam Qafas
Published: September 2024

This article presents a quasi-experimental study evaluating Morocco's Agency for Adult Education “Literacy for Empowerment” program, using propensity score matching to compare data from participants and nonparticipants. Framed within a theory supporting an all-inclusive concept of literacy, the study was guided by two main questions, and data was collected through literacy-relevant test instruments and a questionnaire. The results suggest that individuals who participated in the program had better skills than those who did not (counterfactual). These skills include: (1) literacy skills, (2) personal life, (3) family sphere, (4) inclusive decision-making skills, (5) social skills, (6) community engagement, and (7) economic empowerment. The article concludes that only a comprehensive approach to literacy education would enhance both the quality and benefits derivable from adult literacy programs, advocating for its expansion throughout both rural and urban areas to ensure universal access to basic education and promote active citizen participation in development initiatives.
Participation in Social and Leisure Activities After High School for Autistic Young Adults
Authors: Steinbrenner Jessica R. , Odom Samuel L. , Hall Laura J. , Kraemer Bonnie
Published: September 2024

The transition out of high school brings a myriad of changes including shifts in contexts that impact social and community participation. Previous research indicates that this transition results in disparate social and communication outcomes for autistic young adults compared to their peers. This study includes 170 young adults with autism who participated in follow-up data collection after graduating from U.S. high schools that had participated in a large intervention study. We gathered data from autistic young adults and their parents on social and leisure activity participation, satisfaction, and barriers. We examined data descriptively and looked at differences between sub-groups and changes over time. Results suggest that most autistic young adults are engaged in social activities. There are some differences based on high school programming but no significant differences across gender sub-groups. Research and practice implications are discussed.
Pediatric Epilepsy Genetic Testing Results and Long-term Seizure Freedom
Authors: Sandoval Karamian Amanda G. , Baker Monika , Palmquist Rachel , Wilkes Jacob , Porter Caleb , Olsen Jaxon , Dempsey LeeAnn , Tidwell Timothy J. , Sweney Matthew , Bonkowsky Joshua L.
Published: September 2024

Objective: To determine whether there is a correlation of genetic diagnosis/result with long-term seizure freedom in pediatric epilepsy patients. Methods: This was a prospective and retrospective cohort study of children with epilepsy referred for genetic testing at a single center. The primary outcomes were presence and type of genetic diagnosis (pathogenic, benign, or variant of uncertain significance) and patient epilepsy status (seizure free, treatment failure, uncertain). Epilepsy gene panels were the primary method of genetic testing. Results: The prospective cohort had 22 patients followed for >11 years and for whom genetic testing was then performed; the retrospective cohort had 78 patients with previous genetic testing followed for >8 years. In the prospective cohort, one patient each of the seizure free or treatment failure groups had a pathogenic genetic variant; mean Combined Annotation Dependent Depletion (CADD) scores 22 and 24, respectively ( P = .62). In the retrospective cohort, there was no difference in the number of variants ( P = .97), the variant interpretations ( P = .29 ClinVar, P = .39 lab interpretation) or mean CADD scores ( P = .29) between the seizure-free, treatment failure, and uncertain epilepsy patients. Whole exome and genome sequencing identified pathogenic variants in 70% of patients with treatment failure but were not performed in seizure-free patients. Significance: Our findings show no correlation of the presence or type of epilepsy gene panel result with long-term seizure freedom in pediatric patients. The yield and specificity of pathogenic variants may be higher using whole exome and whole genome sequencing in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Whole exome and whole genome sequencing, or more targeted understanding of specific variants, may be needed to improve the utility of pediatric epilepsy genetic testing.