bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using 3D MRI Bone Shape to Predict Pre-Osteoarthritis of the Knee 2 Years After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Williams Ashley A. , Koltsov Jayme C.B. , Brett Alan , He Jade , Chu Constance R.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury increases risks for osteoarthritis (OA), a poorly modifiable and disabling condition. Joint changes of potentially reversible pre-OA have been described just 2 years after ACL reconstruction (ACLR) when early bone shape changes have also been reported.

Purpose:

This study evaluates relationships between interlimb differences in tibiofemoral bone shape derived from statistical shape modeling (SSM) of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and participant factors on patient-reported outcomes 2 years after unilateral ACLR.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

SSM-derived tibiofemoral bone shape and subchondral bone area were assessed from bilateral knee MRI scans of 72 participants with unilateral ACLR (mean age, 34 ± 11 years; 32 women) and compared with a reference cohort of 398 older individuals without OA (mean age, 50 ± 3 years; 213 women). Multivariable logistic regression models examined relationships between participant and surgical factors with interlimb differences in bone shapes or subchondral bone areas. Relationships between patient-reported outcomes and the interlimb differences in bone shape and subchondral area were examined using similar models.

Results:

Bone shape scores and subchondral bone areas were greater (more OA-like) in ACLR knees than uninjured contralateral knees in every bone metric tested ( P≤ .001). Interlimb differences in femur shape scores of participants with ACLR were 65% greater ( P < .001) than those of the significantly older reference cohort. Taller height, medial meniscal tears, and decreasing age were associated with larger interlimb differences in shape scores and subchondral areas ( P < .05). Bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) autograft recipients demonstrated greater interlimb subchondral area differences compared with allograft recipients ( P < .05). Interlimb differences for hamstring autograft recipients did not differ from those with BPTB or allograft. Greater interlimb differences in medial femur subchondral areas were associated with worse patient-reported Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Symptoms ( R = 0.27; P = .040).

Conclusion:

Even in the absence of radiographic OA, just 2 years after unilateral ACLR patients showed greater bone shape scores and subchondral areas consistent with pre-OA in their ACLR knees. Furthermore, greater medial femur bone areas were weakly associated with worse symptoms. Patients who are younger, are taller, have meniscal tears, or have BPTB grafts may be at increased risk for bony asymmetries 2 years after ACLR.
Women’s Social Mobility and Attitudinal Acceptance of Wife Abuse: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Bengali, Santal, and Garo Ethnic Communities in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Hafijur , Karim Rabiul , Habib Tanzima Zohra , Swahnberg Katarina
Published: November 2023

Previous studies exploring the influential factors associated with attitudinal acceptance of wife abuse (AAWA) did not widely focus on the relation between women’s social mobility (WSM) and different dimensions of AAWA in rural Bangladesh. This current study examined the association between WSM and different dimensions of AAWA in the context of socio-cultural differences among the Bengali, the Santal, and the Garo ethnic communities in rural Bangladesh. Adopting a cross-sectional design, 1,929 married men and women were randomly included in the study from 8 Bengali, 8 Santal, and 8 Garo villages where 50.2% were women and 49.8% were men. Of the sample, 33.2% Garo, 33.2% Santal, and 33.6% Bengali participants were included in this study. Data revealed that 45.5% of women had low social mobility and the prevalence of different dimensions of AAWA was high and varied among the study communities. We used descriptive statistics, chi-square, and binary logistic regression analysis to estimate the association. The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis results revealed that the likelihood of attitudinal acceptance of overall abuse, psychological abuse, physical abuse, abuse on disobeying family obligation, and abuse on challenging male authority were significantly lower for the respondents who belonged to families where women enjoyed high mobility compared to those who belonged to families where WSM was low. This study also showed that the Bengali and the Santal participants were more likely to accept different dimensions of AAWA compared to the Garos. This study suggests that WSM should be considered in policy-making and implementing interventions to reduce the different dimensions of AAWA in rural Bangladesh.
Effect of Intravenous Azithromycin on the QT Interval of ICU Patients
Authors: Oberlander Saidee R , Wall Geoffrey C
Published: November 2023

Background: Azithromycin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic included in many first-line regimens for pneumonia. Azithromycin also carries an FDA warning for increased risk for abnormal cardiac electrical activity, including QTc prolongation. Objective: To examine the effect of intravenous azithromycin on the QT interval in a cohort of patients receiving antibiotic therapy for community acquired pneumonia. Methods: A single-center, retrospective chart review of patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The primary endpoint was change in QTc 48-72 hours after antibiotic initiation. The primary outcome was analyzed using ANOVA matched comparison. Results: Between 6/1/2019 and 3/31/2020, 241 total ICU patients received doses of either antibiotic. After application of exclusion criteria, the total number of patients included in analysis was 93, including 75 azithromycin patient and 18 doxycycline patients. The baseline QTc in the azithromycin group was 449 (95% CI 438-461) and the 72-hour QTc was 442 (95% CI 427-453) with an average change in QTc of -4 ms ( P = .14). No statistically significant difference was found in QTc interval change between azithromycin and doxycycline. Conclusion: In this study, azithromycin use was not associated with a statistically significant increase in QTc interval. Based on these results, for the majority of patients receiving azithromycin, QTc prolongation is not likely a major concern. However, caution may still be warranted in patients considered high risk.
Beyond-66: A pilot evaluation of a novel, peer-led harm reduction intervention for chemsex dependant men who have sex with men in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Thain Benjamin KM , Lu Richard , Fitzpatrick Colin , Richardson Daniel
Published: November 2023

Background

There is little research exploring harm reduction interventions for men who have sex with men (MSM) who engage in chemsex. Beyond-66 is a novel, 132-day, peer-led intervention programme for MSM who are chemsex dependent in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility, retention and effect of Beyond-66 on: abstinence from chemsex, motivation for abstinence, and mental wellbeing.

Method

We collected data on demographics, retention and completion and abstinence between January 2021-August 2023 in MSM using Beyond-66. Using 10-point Likert scales, we compared motivation to remain abstinent and mental wellbeing at the beginning and end of Beyond-66.

Results

25 MSM have either completed or dropped out/referred out of Beyond-66, 12/25(48%) were living with HIV and the median duration of chemsex use was 5 years (IQR = 4–6). 19 (76%) completed programme; 3 were referred out for a psychiatry assessment and 3 dropped out of the programme. 14 (74%) remain abstinent and 5 relapsed. The median motivation for abstinence scores for the 19 completers increased significantly between the pre-programme and post-programme period (7/10 (IQR = 4–8) to 9/10 (IQR = 5–10), p = .04) and the median mental health score (Likert score out of 10 where 10 is poor mental health) reduced significantly (5/10 (IQR = 4–7) to 2/10 (IQR 1–6), p = .008).

Conclusion

This pilot evaluation suggests that MSM using Beyond-66 experience high completion (76%) and abstinence (74%) rates and increased motivation for abstinence and mental wellbeing scores. Further research is needed to design, develop, and deliver peer led interventions for MSM who are chemsex dependant.
The role of generalized trust and control in the employment of domestic help – An experimental case study for Germany and the UK
Authors: Abraham Martin , Nisic Natascha , Trübner Miriam , Walch Hanna , Wunder Anja
Published: November 2023

This study analyses the role of generalized trust and control in households’ employment of domestic help. Applying a basic trust game with uncertainty, we argue that households differ in their estimate of the proportion of opportunistic domestic workers, variation which we ascribe to generalized trust. Households with low trust should estimate a lower proportion of non-opportunistic individuals, making them less willing to accept a domestic worker. Control, through direct supervision of the domestic worker, is assumed to serve as a substitute for trust and is expected to increase acceptance. We also consider the role of income, which we expect to alter the relation between the potential losses and gains associated with outsourcing. To test our hypotheses, we use a factorial survey conducted in 2020 in Germany and the UK ( N = 1877) which enables us to explore the robustness of the effects across countries. Experimental results show that individuals are more accepting of domestic outsourcing if they have higher trust, higher income, and if control of the worker is easily possible. Interaction effects reveal that the positive effect of higher trust and higher income is only relevant in low control situations. This suggest that households with higher trust and income have an advantage when it comes to fully utilizing the benefits of domestic help since costly control is not required. Consequently, the results substantially contribute to existing literature on explaining causes of social inequality in service use beyond financial restrictions and shed light on the complex interplay of trust and control.
Vibro-acoustic characteristics of a rail transit viaduct paved with trapezoidal sleeper track
Authors: Li Xiaozhen , Bi Ran , Zheng Jing
Published: November 2023

To investigate the effects of a trapezoidal sleeper track (TST) on the vibration and noise of rail transit viaducts, the wheel–rail interaction model was first built according to the vehicle–track coupling dynamics theory. Subsequently, the vibration responses of the viaduct were analyzed using the beam–slab finite element method, and its radiated noise was calculated using the acoustic boundary element method. The modeling method was verified based on the test data of a 3 × 40 m continuous rigid frame bridge. Taking the Jialing River Bridge of Chongqing Rail Transit Line 9 as the background, the control effects of the TST on the vibration and noise of the viaduct and the effective laws of different track parameters on the bridge noise were analyzed. Results show that the simulated and measured values are in good agreement; for example, the modeling methods are reliable; the radiated noise of the viaduct is influenced by the vibration responses under the action of train load, which are jointly determined by dynamic wheel–rail force (external excitation) and displacement admittance (self-vibration characteristics); compared with embedded sleeper track (EST), the TST can reduce the overall vibration acceleration level and sound pressure level of the box girder web plate by 13.9 dB and 7.8 dB, respectively; the stiffness of the damping path is the primary factor influencing the noise of the elevated box girder, followed by the sleeper thickness and the fastener stiffness; taking the bottom plate as an example, the stiffness of the damping pad is reduced by 1 and the overall sound pressure level can be reduced by approximately 3 dB; the sleeper thickness is increased by 1, and the overall sound pressure level can be reduced by 1–2 dB; and the fastener stiffness is reduced by 1, and the noise reduction is within 1 dB.
A numerical model of the human cornea accounting for the fiber-distributed collagen microstructure
Authors: De Bellis Maria Laura , Vasta Marcello , Gizzi Alessio , Pandolfi Anna
Published: November 2023

We present a fiber-distributed model of the reinforcing collagen of the human cornea. The model describes the basic connections between the components of the tissue by defining an elementary block (cell) and upscaling it to the physical size of the cornea. The cell is defined by two sets of collagen fibrils running in approximately orthogonal directions, characterized by a random distribution of the spatial orientation and connected by chemical bonds of two kinds. The bonds of the first kind describe the lamellar crosslinks, forming the ribbon-like lamellae; while the bonds of the second kind describe the stacking crosslinks, piling up the lamellae to form the structure of the stroma. The spatial replication of the cell produces a truss structure with a considerable number of degrees of freedom. The statistical characterization of the collagen fibrils leads to a mechanical model that reacts to the action of the deterministic intraocular pressure with a stochastic distribution of the displacements, here characterized by their mean value and variance. The strategy to address the solution of the heavy resulting numerical problem is to use the so-called stochastic finite element improved perturbation method combined with a fully explicit solver. The results demonstrate that the variability of the mechanical properties affects in a non-negligible manner the expected response of the structure to the physiological action.
Autologous forearm arteriovenous loop vascular access, an option to be considered
Authors: Gamé Victoria , Mestres Gaspar , Yugueros Xavier , Lozano Valentin , Barahona Fabricio , Gil Daniel , Blanco Carla , Fontseré Néstor
Published: November 2023

Background:

Autologous arteriovenous fistula is usually the vascular access of choice for hemodialysis in patients with chronic kidney disease. Autologous forearm loops with cephalic or basilic vein are an alternative in those cases with a suitable forearm vein but with an unsuitable radial artery; however they are rarely used and there is little reported evidence of their usefulness. Our objective is to report our results on the creation of autogenous forearm loops as vascular access for hemodialysis.

Methods:

We present a prospective cohort study of autogenous forearm loop arteriovenous fistula created between 2010 and 2022, in patients with stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease. Demographic data, surgical details, vein used, follow up to 24 months, maturation, utilization, primary, assisted, and secondary patency estimations with Kaplan-Meier curves, as well as complications during follow-up, were recorded.

Results:

During the study period, 22 autologous forearm loops were created, 14 of them with cephalic, and 8 with basilic vein. Most (59%) of the patients were men, 19 were already on dialysis and the rest started during follow-up. Sixteen patients had previous vascular accesses. One patient was lost during follow-up. Six-week maturation rate was 61.9% and utilization rate was 57.1%. 6, 12, and 24 months primary and secondary patencies were 75.4%, 59.2%, 41.5% and 85.0%, 69.5%, 56.9% respectively. In five patients an access-induced distal ischemia was diagnosed, four successfully treated and only one patient lost the access. No cases of infection or other major complications were reported.

Conclusion:

Autologous forearm loops have acceptable maturation (61.9%) and patency rates at follow-up (56.9% 2-years secondary patency). Although rarely used, they are a vascular access alternative that should be considered to preserve the proximal vasculature of the arm for future accesses.
Specialists accessing specialty advice: Evaluating utilization, benefits, and impact of care of an e-consultation service
Authors: Keely Erin , Guglani Sheena , Mitchell Erik , Sethuram Claire , Afkham Amir , Liddy Clare
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The usual referral pathway is from a primary care provider (PCP) to a specialist; however, specialists also refer to and consult with other specialists. Electronic consultation (eConsult) allows clinicians to submit questions on behalf of patients to specialists to receive timely advice. Most eConsult studies in the past have examined questions asked from PCPs to specialists. This study investigates the utilization of specialists submitting clinical questions to other specialists through the Ontario eConsult Service and identifies use-case scenarios where specialist-to-specialist eConsult may be beneficial.

Methods

A retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional analysis of eConsults submitted by specialists through the Ontario eConsult Service for 24 months (March 2019 to February 2021). Utilization data is collected automatically by the service, including specialty referred to, time billed, region, and results from a closeout survey which includes the referral outcome of the eConsult and the utility to the submitting clinician.

Results

4% ( n = 3285) of all eConsults sent within the study period were specialist-to-specialist, with the others being sent by a PCP. The number of specialist-to-specialist eConsults grew 120% following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The top three specialties that submitted eConsults were pediatrics, internal medicine, and endocrinology. The top three specialties that specialists submitted to were dermatology, neurology, and hematology. A face-to-face referral was avoided in 69% of referrals.

Conclusion

Evaluating the utilization patterns of specialist-to-specialist eConsults allows us to better understand and expand the scope of eConsult services, which have traditionally been thought of as a workflow between a PCP and a specialist.
Using an integrated social cognition model to identify the determinants of QR code check-in compliance behaviors in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mac Thi Nhung , Phipps Daniel J , Parkinson Joy , Cassimatis Mandy , Hamilton Kyra
Published: November 2023

In Australia, checking in while entering venues was a legal requirement during the COVID-19 pandemic to track potential infection sites. This two-wave correlational study used an integrated theory of planned behavior model including moral norms, anticipated regret, and habit to predict check-in compliance in a sample of 181 Victorians (Mean Age = 41.88, 56.4% female) and 162 Queenslanders (Mean Age = 43.26, 47.5% female). Habit and intention predicted behavior, while perceived behavioral control did not. Intention was predicted by baseline habit, attitude, subjective norm, and moral norm in the Victorian sample, while only baseline habit and moral norm predicted intention in the Queensland sample. This study has potential implications for reviewing previous strategies and for future pandemic preparedness, both by identifying the drivers of infection control compliance, and through the discussion of how differences in effects between states may be linked to each state’s experience of the pandemic (e.g. infection rates, lockdown length).
Bilingual exposure might enhance L1 development in Cantonese–English bilingual autistic children: Evidence from the production of focus
Authors: Ge Haoyan , Lee Albert Kwing Lok , Yuen Hoi Kwan , Liu Fang , Yip Virginia
Published: November 2023

This study investigated bilingualism effects on the production of focus in 5- to 9-year-old Cantonese–English bilingual autistic children’s L1 Cantonese, compared to their monolingual autistic peers as well as monolingual and bilingual typically developing children matched in nonverbal IQ, working memory, receptive vocabulary and maternal education. The results from an elicitation task showed that monolingual autistic children had significantly lower accuracy than typically developing children in producing focus in subject and object positions. Bilingual autistic children in general performed similarly to monolingual autistic children but outperformed their monolingual autistic peers in the production of object focus with a significantly higher accuracy. The total amount of English exposure did not relate to the accuracy of focus production in autistic and typically developing children. Our results also revealed autistic children’s tendency to make use of less prosodic means to produce focus. The overall findings indicate that bilingual exposure has no detrimental effect on the language skills of autistic children but might enhance the production of focus in bilingual autistic children’s L1 Cantonese.

Lay abstract

It is commonly believed among professionals and parents that exposure to two languages imposes an additional burden on children with autism spectrum disorder. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence to support or reject this belief. With the prevalence of autism and an increasing number of children growing up bilingual, it is urgent to understand how bilingual exposure interacts with autism. Bilingual autistic children from Hong Kong, with Cantonese as their first language and English as their second language, took part in the study. We used a production game to test how bilingual autistic children use different levels of linguistic knowledge to produce contrastive information in real conversations, compared to their monolingual autistic peers and typically developing children matched in language abilities, nonverbal IQ, working memory and maternal education. We found that bilingual autistic children performed as good as typically developing children in general, and they even performed better than monolingual autistic children. Our findings suggest a bilingual advantage in autistic children in conveying constative information in sentences. We thus encourage parents to engage their children in rich bilingual environments. Clinicians, educators and other professionals may also consider adding bilingual aspects in training programmes to support families raising bilingual autistic children.
Seismic behavior of precast prestressed concrete frame joints with different energy dissipation designs
Authors: Qu XiuShu , Qin Chenghao , Sun GuoJun , Deng Yuxiang , Fu Xiao
Published: November 2023

The unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete joint based on PRESSS (Precast Seismic Structural System) technology has a simple form, convenient construction, and strong deformation-recovery properties. In this paper, both experimental and theoretical analysis methods were used to study the influence of different energy dissipation components on the seismic performance of the unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete joint. First, based on the existing ‘plug-and-play’ energy dissipation device, this paper improved its construction and designed two types of joints with new external energy dissipaters and internal energy-dissipating bars, respectively. Subsequently, low-reversed cyclic loading experiments were conducted. The two joints’ seismic performance indexes, failure mode, hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, ductility coefficient, and residual deformation were compared and analyzed. The experimental results showed that internal energy-dissipating bars exhibited greater energy dissipation. In contrast, the joint with the new external energy dissipater had higher initial stiffness than the joint with internal energy-dissipating bars. In addition, the force transmission mechanism and the calculation formula of the initial rotational stiffness of the joints were deduced through theoretical analysis, and the theoretical derivation was further verified by combining the experimental values. Overall, both joints conformed to the definition of semi-rigid connections in EC3, and the joint design conformed to the “strong column and weak beam, strong joint and weak member” principle. Finally, a new anchoring system for the energy dissipaters is proposed to ensure the effective connection between the energy dissipater and the bearing.
Detection and evaluation of heat damage in reinforced concrete beams using linear and nonlinear guided waves
Authors: Aseem Ahmed , Ng Ching Tai
Published: November 2023

This study utilizes the linear and nonlinear features of guided waves (GWs) for detecting and evaluating heat damage in reinforced concrete (RC) beams. The RC beams with embedded sensors attached at rebar ends are experimentally studied using longitudinal GW at 200 kHz after heating the specimens in a furnace from 100°C to 300°C. For the studies investigating the effect of heat damage on the RC beams beyond 300°C, the rebar ends are exposed outside the concrete so that the longitudinal transducers can be attached there. These specimens are then experimentally studied using GW with an excitation frequency of 100 kHz. In this study, the RC beams are prepared as fully bonded and debonded specimens. The experimental study shows that heat damage in the RC beams causes debonding between rebar and concrete enabling GW signal to generate second harmonics. The experimental study also discussed the linear features of GW, which shows that the amplitude of the GW signal increases with elevated temperatures in the RC beams. To distinguish material nonlinearity and contact nonlinearity, two types of nonlinear parameters are defined in this study. The nonlinear parameter due to the contact acoustic nonlinearity effect in the RC beams is defined as β, whereas the nonlinear parameter due to material nonlinearity is defined as β m. The study shows that β m is negligible in comparison to β at relevant heated temperatures. With the increase in temperature, the nonlinear parameter β is significantly increased at elevated temperatures. The peak amplitude of the nonlinear parameter β is observed at the maximum heated temperature 800°C for both bonded and debonded specimens.
An atypical case of hypomagnesemia-induced cerebellar syndrome with literature review
Authors: Wahane Madhugandha , Kaushal Himanshu , Goyal Gaurav , Sarna Mukesh
Published: November 2023

Cerebellar ataxia in adults is always a diagnostic challenge. One of the important causes of late-onset cerebellar ataxia is hypomagnesemia. Hypomagnesemia can have varied manifestations and is attributable to numerous causes. Identification of hypomagnesemia-induced cerebellar syndrome (HiCS) is important as it is reversible but often missed. HiCS has distinct clinical findings and characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. HiCS presents with distinct clinical, biochemical, and neuroimaging findings, but it cannot be ruled out even in the absence of neuroimaging findings. This condition has to be treated promptly and meticulously to avoid precipitating any serious complications, and a strong suspicion is required for the diagnosis. The underlying cause should be evaluated and managed, as HiCS is a serious but potentially reversible disease with a good prognosis. We present a case of HiCS presenting with a characteristic history of recurrent ataxia, tremor, and vertigo that improved with treatment. Our patient was atypical, as there were no significant MRI findings attributable to hypomagnesemia. Only seven case reports are available throughout the world that show such disparity.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting phaeochromocytoma as a cause of treatment-resistant hypertension and recurrent pulmonary emboli
Authors: Vollmer Shobitha , Borg Henrik
Published: November 2023

We report an unusual case of a patient presenting with Cushing’s syndrome caused by a phaeochromocytoma secreting adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). The patient had a history of treatment-resistant hypertension, secondary amenorrhoea and tendency towards hypokalaemia. She had multiple signs of Cushing’s syndrome, such as swelling, bruising, abdominal striae and proximal myopathy. Hypokalaemia is more common in patients with ectopic ACTH-secretion than other causes of Cushing’s syndrome. Computed tomography, adrenal vein sampling and biochemistry could confirm an ACTH-secreting phaeochromocytoma. It is important to consider that hypersecretion of more than one hormone may exist in a unilateral adrenal adenoma. This patient also presented with recurrent pulmonary emboli, and there is an increased risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with ACTH-secreting phaeochromocytoma. Anticoagulation should be considered for as long as the disease is active. We demonstrate that unilateral adrenalectomy can be curative in patients with ACTH-secreting phaeochromocytoma.
Did You Like the Interview? Interviewer Effects on Respondents’ Interview Pleasantness Ratings
Authors: Schmiedeberg Claudia , Schröder Jette
Published: November 2023

Although it has long been acknowledged that interviewers play a crucial role in the survey data collection process, there is little research concerning interviewer effects on how respondents perceive the interview. We investigate whether interviewer effects exist regarding how much respondents report having enjoyed the interview and whether these effects can be explained by interviewer characteristics. We use data from wave 9 of the German Family Panel pairfam, combined with data from an interviewer survey conducted prior to this wave. Applying multilevel models, we find large interviewer effects that can be explained only partly by interviewers’ sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes, and behavior. Interviewers’ gender, intrinsic work motivation, and their attitude toward respondents significantly affect how much respondents enjoy the interview.
Exosomal microRNA Therapy for Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Chen Jibing , Wu Fasheng , Hou Encun , Zeng Jianying , Li Fujun , Gao Hongjun
Published: November 2023

With the progress of molecular diagnosis research on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, four identified categories of microRNAs have been found to be related to disease diagnosis, diagnosis of treatment resistance, prediction of prognosis, and drugs for treatment. To date, nine target mRNA/signal pathways have been confirmed for microRNA drug therapy both in vitro and in vivo. When microRNA drugs enter blood vessels, they target the tumor site and play a similar role to that of targeted drugs. However, whether they will produce serious off-target effects remains unknown, and further clinical research is needed. This review provides the first summary of microRNA therapy for NSCLC.
Competencies in Pastoral Counseling: The Lived Experiences of Filipino Diocesan Parish Priests
Authors: Isaac Rumpearl Tenkings
Published: November 2023

Pastoral counseling has been a significant part of the priestly ministry in the Philippines. Nonetheless, literature about Filipino priests’ lived experiences and competencies in counseling is almost non-existent. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the researcher explored the lived experiences and competencies of Filipino diocesan parish priests in their role as pastoral counselors. The study was framed in Phenomenology, the Philippines Psychology Act of 2009, and the 2009 competencies of the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), a division within the American Counseling Association (ACA). Data were collected using a semi-structured interview, and the analysis yielded seven (7) themes under three (3) clusters. The findings revealed that the participants lack the prerequisites to be rightfully called pastoral counselors. As priests continue to attend to people in need of counseling, the researcher calls on church leaders, the Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP), and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to address the practice of pastoral counseling in the country.
Magnetohydrodynamic hybrid nanofluid flow through moving thin needle considering variable viscosity and thermal conductivity
Authors: Ferdows Mohammad , Jahan Sultana , Tzirtzilakis Efstratios , Sun Shuyu
Published: November 2023

In modern science and technology, industrial applications that deal with the problem of continuously moving thin needle, surrounded with fluid in sectors like hot rolling, crystal growing, heat extrusion, glass fiber drawing, etc., are rapidly increasing. Such processes involve high temperatures which may affect the fluid properties that is, viscosity and thermal conductivity. So, it’s crucial to understand temperature-dependent fluid properties. Focused on these assumptions, the main objective of the current research work is to investigate how temperature-dependent fluid properties might improve the heat transfer efficiency and performance evolution of hybrid nanofluid in the presence of transverse magnetic field over a moving thin needle. Variable Prandtl number is also introduced to observe flow fluctuation, the effect of adding nanoparticles, and enhancement in heat transmission. The results are obtained for different needle thicknesses, temperature-dependent viscosity, temperature-dependent thermal conductivity, and heat generation. Moreover, Fe3O4/Graphene nanoparticles are considered to be dispersed in water. The governing partial differential equations of flow and heat transfer are transformed into a system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations using analysis of similarity conversion. Subsequently, the numerical solution of the problem is attained by employing the MAPLE software. The fourth-fifth-order Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg (RFK45) approach is used by default in this MAPLE program to address the numerical problem of boundary value. The velocity and temperature field are pictured for different values of the parameters as well as physical quantities of interest such as skin friction coefficient and rate of heat transfer are visually depicted in graphs and tables. It is found that fluid motion and energy transport are highly regulated by the variation of magnetic field strength. As the volume fraction of Fe3O4 is increased, the heat generation, and thermal conductivity parameter vehemently enhance the temperature profile which leads to a rise in thermal boundary layer. A strong augmentation in the heat transfer rate has been found with the increment in the variable Prandtl number.
Gene-targeted therapy for neurofibromatosis and schwannomatosis: The path to clinical trials
Authors: Staedtke Verena , Anstett Kara , Bedwell David , Giovannini Marco , Keeling Kim , Kesterson Robert , Kim YooRi , Korf Bruce , Leier André , McManus Miranda L , Sarnoff Herb , Vitte Jeremie , Walker James A , Plotkin Scott R , Wallis Deeann
Published: November 2023

Numerous successful gene-targeted therapies are arising for the treatment of a variety of rare diseases. At the same time, current treatment options for neurofibromatosis 1 and schwannomatosis are limited and do not directly address loss of gene/protein function. In addition, treatments have mostly focused on symptomatic tumors, but have failed to address multisystem involvement in these conditions. Gene-targeted therapies hold promise to address these limitations. However, despite intense interest over decades, multiple preclinical and clinical issues need to be resolved before they become a reality. The optimal approaches to gene-, mRNA-, or protein restoration and to delivery to the appropriate cell types remain elusive. Preclinical models that recapitulate manifestations of neurofibromatosis 1 and schwannomatosis need to be refined. The development of validated assays for measuring neurofibromin and merlin activity in animal and human tissues will be critical for early-stage trials, as will the selection of appropriate patients, based on their individual genotypes and risk/benefit balance. Once the safety of gene-targeted therapy for symptomatic tumors has been established, the possibility of addressing a wide range of symptoms, including non-tumor manifestations, should be explored. As preclinical efforts are underway, it will be essential to educate both clinicians and those affected by neurofibromatosis 1/schwannomatosis about the risks and benefits of gene-targeted therapy for these conditions.
Toward an Integrative Approach to the Study of Positive-Affect-Related Aggression
Authors: Quansah Joyce Emma , Gagnon Jean
Published: November 2023

Research on aggression usually aims at gaining a better understanding of its more negative aspects, such as the role and effects of aversive social interactions, hostile cognitions, or negative affect. However, there are conditions under which an act of aggression can elicit a positive affective response, even among the most nonviolent of individuals. One might experience the “sweetness of revenge” on reacting aggressively to a betrayal or social rejection. A soldier may feel elated after “shooting to kill” in the name of the flag. There are many factors that contribute to the appeal of aggression, but despite growing interest in researching these phenomena, there is still no unitary framework that organizes existing theories and empirical findings and can be applied to a model to generate testable hypotheses. This article presents a narrative review of the literature on positive-affect-related forms of aggression and explores the role of aggression in eliciting positive affect across diverse social situations and relational contexts. An integrative model that unifies existing theories and findings is proposed, with the objective to inspire and inform future research.
The Role of Ultra-Rapid-Acting Insulin Analogs in Diabetes: An Expert Consensus
Authors: Giorgino Francesco , Battelino Tadej , Bergenstal Richard M. , Forst Thomas , Green Jennifer B. , Mathieu Chantal , Rodbard Helena W. , Schnell Oliver , Wilmot Emma G.
Published: November 2023

Ultra-rapid-acting insulin analogs (URAA) are a further development and refinement of rapid-acting insulin analogs. Because of their adapted formulation, URAA provide an even faster pharmacokinetics and thus an accelerated onset of insulin action than conventional rapid-acting insulin analogs, allowing for a more physiologic delivery of exogenously applied insulin. Clinical trials have confirmed the superiority of URAA in controlling postprandial glucose excursions, with a safety profile that is comparable to the rapid-acting insulins. Consequently, many individuals with diabetes mellitus may benefit from URAA in terms of prandial glycemic control. Unfortunately, there are only few available recommendations from authoritative sources for use of URAA in clinical practice. Therefore, this expert consensus report aims to define populations of people with diabetes mellitus for whom URAA may be beneficial and to provide health care professionals with concrete, practical recommendations on how best to use URAA in this context.
European Survey on Adult People With Type 1 Diabetes and Their Caregivers: Insights Into Perceptions of Technology
Authors: Penfornis Alfred , Down Su , Seignez Antoine , Vives Alizé , Bonnemaire Mireille , Kulzer Bernhard
Published: November 2023

Background:

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a complex condition requiring constant monitoring and self-management. The landscape of diabetes management is evolving with the development of new technologies. This survey aimed to gain insight into the perceptions and experiences of people with T1D (PWD) and their caregivers on the use of technology in diabetes care, and identify future needs for T1D management.

Methods:

PWD and caregivers (≥18 years) living in five European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom) completed an online survey. Data were collected during July and August 2021.

Results:

Responders included 458 PWD and 54 caregivers. More than 60% of PWD perceived devices/digital tools for diabetes management as useful and 63% reported that access to monitoring device data made their life easier. Nearly half of participants hoped for new devices and/or digital tools. While approximately one-third of all PWD had used teleconsultation, perceptions and usage varied significantly between countries and by age (both P < .0001), with the lowest use in Germany (20%) and the highest in Spain (48%). The proportions of PWD contributing to diabetes care costs varied by device and were highest for smart insulin pen users at 83% compared with 44% for insulin pen users and 37% for insulin pump users. One-quarter (24%) of PWD and 15% of caregivers felt they lacked knowledge about devices/digital tools for T1D.

Conclusions:

Most PWD and caregivers had positive perceptions and experiences of new technologies/digital solutions for diabetes management, although improved support and structured education for devices/digital tools are still required.
Temporal visuomotor synchrony induces embodiment towards an avatar with biomechanically impossible arm movements
Authors: Hapuarachchi Harin , Ishimoto Hiroki , Kitazaki Michiteru , Sugimoto Maki , Inami Masahiko
Published: November 2023

Visuomotor synchrony in time and space induces a sense of embodiment towards virtual bodies experienced in first-person view using Virtual Reality (VR). Here, we investigated whether temporal visuomotor synchrony affects avatar embodiment even when the movements of the virtual arms are spatially altered from those of the user in a non-human-like manner. In a within-subjects design VR experiment, participants performed a reaching task controlling an avatar whose lower arms bent in inversed and biomechanically impossible directions from the elbow joints. They performed the reaching task using this “unnatural avatar” as well as a “natural avatar,” whose arm movements and positions spatially matched the user. The reaching tasks were performed with and without a one second delay between the real and virtual movements. While the senses of body ownership and agency towards the unnatural avatar were significantly lower compared to those towards the natural avatar, temporal visuomotor synchrony did significantly increase the sense of embodiment towards the unnatural avatar as well as the natural avatar. These results suggest that temporal visuomotor synchrony is crucial for inducing embodiment even when the spatial match between the real and virtual limbs is disrupted with movements outside the pre-existing cognitive representations of the human body.
Facilitating OPAT in rural areas
Authors: Mehta Meera , Benning Molly , Johnson Jessica E. , Ryan Keenan L.
Published: November 2023

A sizable portion of the United States’ population lives in a rural setting. Coupled with a limited number of infectious diseases providers, this has created a need for innovative practice models to deliver outpatient antimicrobial therapy and clinical monitoring in rural settings. This article reviews existing literature regarding outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy in rural settings and explores existing barriers and potential solutions that may be of assistance to providers looking to provide these services.
Keeping Memories Alive: A Decennial Study of Social Media Reminiscing, Memories, and Nostalgia
Authors: Jungselius Beata , Weilenmann Alexandra
Published: November 2023

In this article, we present findings from an analysis of social media users’ own descriptions of having lived with social media for over a decade. In doing so, we draw upon the users’ reflections as related in data collected over 10 years. We present findings from a unique dataset of 36 stimulated-recall interviews, where we have studied the same group of informants in 2012, 2017, and 2022. While previous work on reminiscing, memories, and social media have relied on descriptions of practices as they are remembered, our approach has allowed us to follow and examine how users reflect upon their own practices over time. In this article, we focus on social media reminiscing practices and show how social media users seek and engage with previously posted social media content to reminisce and how their reflecting upon how their social media practices have evolved over time evoke ambiguous feelings. Drawing upon previous work and our own empirical material, we define and discuss social media nostalgia. We describe how social media users experience both personal social media nostalgia (referring to how I was), and historical social media nostalgia (referring to how it was) when reflecting upon past social media practices and demonstrate how social media users nostalgize as they interact with and through social media memories. Finally, we discuss our findings in relation to the interplay between reminiscing practices and technology and point to how social media memories represent a detailed insight into an ongoing social transformation of everyday life.
Factor Analysis of a Generalized Video Game Experience Measure
Authors: Williams Jessica , Bendell Rhyse , Fiore Stephen M. , Jentsch Florian
Published: November 2023

Video gaming experience has been found to impact behavior and performance on experimental tasks, can influence cognitive processes, and may even transfer to proficiency in novel tasks. There is a growing need for an empirically validated generalizable tool that can capture differences in participants gaming experience due to the growing representation of regular video gamers, and the proliferation of gamified, simulated task environments. The analyses reported here examine the factor loadings of a general Video Game Experience Measure (VGEM) designed to tap facets of gaming experience that can distinguish non-gamers from gamers and is also sensitive to varying levels of proficiency. Results from exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses find support for a five-factor model capturing: Game-skill Confidence, Gaming Lifespan, Gaming Intensity, Gaming Frequency, and Gamer Self-efficacy. These findings are discussed in the context of how the VGEM can support research using gamified task environments requiring the study of cognition and collaboration.
The Geography of Mathematical (Dis)Advantage: An Application of Multilevel Simultaneous Autoregressive (MSAR) Models to Public Data in Education Research
Authors: González Canché Manuel S.
Published: November 2023

Research has shown that mathematical proficiency gaps are related to students’ and schools’ indicators of poverty, with fewer studies on neighborhood effects on achievement gaps. Although this literature has accounted for students’ nesting within schools, so far, methodological constraints have not allowed researchers to formally account for multilevel and spatial effects. I contribute to this discussion by simultaneously considering test-takers’ own socioeconomic standing and the impact of their nesting schools and neighborhood structures. Multilevel simultaneous autoregressive (MSAR) models and population-level data of 2.09 million test-takers, whose standardized performances were measured at Grades 3–8 in New York State, revealed the presence of geography of mathematical (dis)advantage. Because mathematical performance is spatially dependent across schools and neighborhoods, moving forward, applied researchers should rely on MSAR to account for sources of spatially driven bias that cannot be handled with multilevel models alone. Full replication code and data are provided at https://cutt.ly/N4zRstL .