bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mimetic Mediators in Mark: How Graeco-Roman Biographies Use Secondary Characters to Offer Multiple Patterns of Imitation
Authors: Berglund Carl Johan
Published: March 2024

Can the Markan disciples still be viewed as potential role models for the Gospel audience if Mark’s writing is identified as a biography? This long-standing line of narrative interpretation has recently been rejected as anachronistic by Helen K. Bond, who maintains that in Graeco-Roman biographies, secondary characters are only included for what they bring to the portrait of the protagonist. In response, this paper demonstrates that ancient biographies regularly use followers of their main characters to provide multiple mimetic patterns that clarify, broaden, and mitigate what it means to imitate their heroes. In particular, Mark’s cast of secondary characters offers three alternative patterns of behaviour for potential followers of Jesus: apostles, who emulate his itinerant lifestyle of preaching, healing, and exorcism; hosts, who provide apostles with food and shelter in their homes; and supporters, who serve the movement in other ways in accordance with their abilities and social status.
Pseudomyogenic Hemangioendothelioma Arising in the Maxillary Sinus, an Uncommon and Misdiagnosed Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: El Ouazzani Hafsa , Hamidi Olaya , Habimana Alain , Boulaadas M. , Zouaidia Fouad , Cherradi Nadia
Published: March 2024

Pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma (PMHE) is a rare vascular neoplasm with an intermediate to low-grade malignant potential. Only 5% of PMHEs occur in the head and neck. This tumor exhibits different histological patterns and mimics other vascular tumors, myoid tumors, or carcinomas. The distinction between these tumors can be a very challenging situation for pathologists. In this article, we report the first case, to our knowledge, of PMHE arising in the maxillary sinus, to highlight this uncommon entity and discuss differential diagnoses.
Synchronous Papillary Thyroid Cancer and Asymptomatic Cervical Lymph Node Sarcoidosis: A Case Report
Authors: You-Syuan Wu , Yun-Ying She
Published: March 2024

Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of immune granulomas in multiple organs. The cause of this disease is not yet clear. Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common malignant endocrine tumor and is often associated with cervical lymph node metastasis. Assessment of risk factors associated with a poor prognosis is crucial in PTC. The coexistence of sarcoidosis and thyroid cancer is rarely reported in the literature. We describe a case of a 54-year-old female diagnosed with PTC and asymptomatic cervical and thoracic hilar lymphadenopathy due to concurrent sarcoidosis. This case will remind clinicians to be aware of the multiple potential causes of lymphadenopathy and realize the importance of the differences in the features of neck lymphadenopathy in patients with suspected head and neck cancer. Overall, careful workup and pretreatment screening enabled us to provide the patient with the most suitable treatment modality and avoid total thyroidectomy.
Music teacher educator growth through Self-Study of Teacher Education Practices (S-STEP) research
Authors: Conway Colleen , Vecchio Mike , Weaver Rebekah
Published: March 2024

This paper describes music teacher educator growth during a Self-Study of Teacher Education Practices (S-STEP) conducted over the course of one academic year. Research questions included: (a) How do the researchers describe the experience of conducting a S-STEP; and (b) What is the perceived impact of the S-STEP on our understanding of our students and the curriculum? Data included researcher journals, eight recorded self-study team meetings (2–3 hours each), video recordings of sophomore and junior students discussing readings and fieldwork experiences, and researcher reflections on individual interviews with 13 the student participants. Evidence from the S-STEP is presented in the areas of: (a) Setting it Up/Power; (b) Growing Understanding of Students; (c) Growing Understandings of the Curriculum; and (d) The Process of S-STEP. Suggestions are provided for music teacher educators interested in S-STEP work.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging signal has sub-second temporal accuracy
Authors: Li Yi-Tien , Lee Hsin-Ju , Lin Fa-Hsuan
Published: March 2024

Neuronal activation sequence information is essential for understanding brain functions. Extracting such timing information from blood-oxygenation-level-dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signals is confounded by local cerebral vascular reactivity (CVR), which varies across brain locations. Thus, detecting neuronal synchrony as well as inferring inter-regional causal modulation using fMRI signals can be biased. Here we used fast fMRI measurements sampled at 10 Hz to measure the fMRI latency difference between visual and sensorimotor areas when participants engaged in a visuomotor task. The regional fMRI timing was calibrated by subtracting the CVR latency measured by a breath-holding task. After CVR calibration, the fMRI signal at the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) preceded that at the visual cortex by 496 ms, followed by the fMRI signal at the sensorimotor cortex with a latency of 464 ms. Sequential LGN, visual, and sensorimotor cortex activations were found in each participant after the CVR calibration. These inter-regional fMRI timing differences across and within participants were more closely related to the reaction time after the CVR calibration. Our results suggested the feasibility of mapping brain activity using fMRI with accuracy in hundreds of milliseconds.
Percutaneous placement of a retrievable fully covered metal stent with anchoring flaps for the treatment of biliary anastomotic stricture following LDLT
Authors: Hur Joonho , Choi Woosun , Choi Sang Lim , Suh Suk-Won
Published: March 2024

To investigate the outcomes following percutaneous placement of a retrievable fully covered self-expanding metal stent (fcSEMS) with anchoring flaps at proximal and distal ends for the treatment of biliary anastomotic strictures following living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT). We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of nine patients who underwent this procedure at our centre between April 2020 and March 2021. Percutaneous stent placement was technically successful in 100% patients, and all stents were successfully retrieved. No proximal or distal stent migration or occlusion was observed during the mean (±SD) stent indwelling period of 191(± 77) days. Clinical success was 89%. There was one major bleeding complication related to the biliary approach and one minor stent-related complication of calculus/sludge. During the mean (±SD) follow-up period of 595 ± 207 days after stent retrieval, only one patient developed recurrent clinical biliary stricture and symptoms. Percutaneous placement of a retrievable fcSEMS with anchoring flaps is safe and feasible for the treatment of biliary anastomotic strictures following LDLT.
Chemotherapy-induced pneumatosis intestinalis followed by hepatic portal venous gas. A case report
Authors: Pan WenJun , Xiang Shuai , Zhang Junhao , Gao Yuan , Liu Shanglong
Published: March 2024

Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare disease, and there are many theories about its pathogenesis. Hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG), is thought to occur secondary to intramural intestinal gas emboli migrating through the portal venous system via the mesenteric veins. PI accompanied by HPVG is usually a sign of bowel ischaemia and is associated with a high mortality rate. We report here, a patient with liver metastases from colorectal cancer who developed PI followed by HPVG after treatment with 5-Fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin (mFOLFOX6). Timely attention and management of gastrointestinal symptoms following chemotherapy are essential in the treatment of this type of patient.
Personality Attributions in the Context of Stalking of Ex-Intimates or Others: A Victim’s Perspective
Authors: Truss Lily , de Roos Melissa S.
Published: March 2024

Stalking perpetrators may suffer from maladaptive personality traits, particularly if they stalk in the context of an (ex-)intimate relationship. To date, no study has examined how different personality attributions may relate to stalker motivation, or the behaviors they engage in, and how this differs across victim-perpetrator relationships. Further, the perspective of the victim is often not taken into consideration, even though most stalking victims know their stalker intimately and a majority are stalked by a former or current partner. The present study employed a correlational design to assess the relationship between stalking behaviors, motivation to stalk, and personality attributions, as perceived by the victim across an ex-intimate or other victim-perpetrator relationship. The study sample consisted of 100 victims of stalking (63% ex-intimate; 85% female) who were recruited through a National Stalking Helpline. Results align with and extend the results of previous researchers, most notably the high proportion of reported Cluster B-aligned personality attributions among stalkers, as well as the proportion of more under-researched personality attributions, and their associated risks. Victims of an ex-intimate partner were more likely to report their stalker was motivated by intimacy, and personality attributions aligned with both borderline and paranoid PD were more often reported than in other relationship contexts. Results and clinical implications are discussed.
From cryptids to kaijū: Exploring heterodox palaeoscience with Godzilla
Authors: Mullis Justin
Published: March 2024

This essay's goal is to elucidate the role that cryptozoology, a field related to heterodox palaeoscience, has played in Japan, via key films in the Godzilla series; a popular example of Japanese cryptozoological fiction. This will work to reframe the discussion around cryptozoology as one not premised exclusively on western cultural assumptions about the relationship between science, modernity and myth while also demonstrating that the circumstances which have resulted in the palaeontologically heterodox claims of cryptozoologists are not unique to western culture.
Adoptive parents’ worries and concerns about their adolescent adopted children
Authors: Hillman Saul , Lajmi Nahed , Steele Miriam , Hodges Jill , Simmonds John , Kaniuk Jeanne
Published: March 2024

This study forms part of a major longitudinal research project collaboration between the Anna Freud Centre, Coram and Great Ormond Street Hospital, which set out to explore adopted children’s and adoptive parents’ outcomes and experiences from middle childhood through to adolescence. In this paper, 17 adoptive mothers of late adopted children, currently in early adolescence (aged 12 to 15 years), were interviewed. The focus of the study draws upon their worries and fears regarding their children during adolescence and as they approach adulthood. The Parent Development Interviews (PDI) were analysed using thematic analysis and generated five overarching themes: Vulnerability, Violence, Derailing opportunities, Autonomy and Anxieties about the birth family. This qualitative exploration provides strong evidence for how these parents reflected upon very concrete challenges and anxieties about their child’s journey, including both their current context and anticipated outcomes. The overwhelming majority of research to date on this population examines negative outcomes quantitatively; this study adds an important qualitative layer of the parents’ own perspectives.
Experimental Behavior of a Steel Girder–Stringer–Floorbeam Bridge
Authors: Yarnold Matthew , Moore Andrew , Henderson Craig , Huff Tim , Hayworth Rebecca
Published: March 2024

The presented case study summarizes a quick-response project for the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), which focused on the steel-stringer behavior for a girder–stringer–floorbeam bridge. TDOT was confronted with relatively low stringer load ratings for many of their 31 similar structures. As a result, TDOT initiated this field study to ultimately produce refined load ratings. This information was then to be utilized for deciding whether an intervention (e.g., retrofit) was necessary. Diagnostic load testing was the approach selected and a representative bridge was chosen. Then load testing was comprehensively designed and executed. This included the installation of 42 strain gauges, data-acquisition quality-control testing, weighing and measuring test trucks, load testing of the structure, and then removal of the system. The load-test data provided insight into the true behavior of the bridge. The stringers were subjected to a combined interaction of the global and local response. Overall, the local demands were the largest component, but the magnitudes were well below the predicted values. This was partly because of the lateral distribution of the load. Additionally, partial composite action was identified between the steel stringers and concrete slab. Refined load ratings were calculated using the field-measured data and following the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation. The comparison of predicted to measured responses clearly indicated the conservative nature of the prior analytical calculations. The stringer load ratings were increased by 68% based on the field testing. In the end, the steel-stringer load ratings were sufficient, with no intervention necessary.
Ageism Healthcare: Implications for the Psychological Well-Being of Atlantic Canadian Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Purchase Madelyn , Thériault Éric R. , Collicutt Brooke
Published: March 2024

Ageism in healthcare is related to poor outcomes for older patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationships between ageism and various aspects of the psychological well-being of healthcare professionals in Atlantic Canada. In 2023, an online survey of 294 healthcare professionals from various disciplines was conducted. This survey included items to measure expectations of aging, stress, burnout, emotional dissonance, and well-being. Results indicated that aging expectations were significantly related to burnout, perceived stress, well-being, and emotional dissonance. With the use of a path analysis, emotional dissonance partially mediated relationships between burnout and well-being with stress. However, aging expectations did not significantly predict emotional dissonance. Differences were found across professional groups on ageism. Conclusions support the need for increased awareness to the relationship between ageist attitudes and professionals’ well-being, as well as the need for education and interventions to reduce false expectations about the aging process.
What defines Traits, Reputations, and Identity? Personality item content in multi-rater judgments
Authors: Wiedenroth Anne , Connelly Brian S. , McAbee Samuel T. , Fang Ray T.
Published: March 2024

Personality self- and informant-reports have been ascribed complementary value based on the asymmetric knowledge of the two perspectives. However, this study is the first to investigate what personality (item) content is reflected in the shared and unique components in multi-rater personality judgments. In two large data sets (Sample 1: 664 targets/1,615 informants; Sample 2: 478 targets/1,434 informants), we used latent variable models to separate judgments into variance that is shared across targets and informants (the Trait factor), unique to self-reports (Identity), and unique to informant-reports (Reputation). Then, we predicted the personality items’ loadings for each factor from the items’ content. This included items’ affective, behavioral, cognitive, or desire-related content, observability and evaluativeness, and centrality to identity or reputation. We found that Trait consensus was generally promoted by items reflecting observable, behavioral, but also affective content. Unique self-perceptions were captured especially by cognitions and non-observable content. Evaluativeness had inconsistent effects across samples. Similarly, unique informant-views reflected different content across samples. Both may depend on the types of informants or the available item sample. These insights build the foundation for leveraging the power of multi-rater perspectives on personality for advancing theory and measurement across different perspectives.
Analyzing effects of damping materials on automotive bumper beam assembly under different velocity conditions
Authors: Jan Dil , Butt Shahid Ikramullah , Khan Muhammad Salman , Ahmad Nasir , Hussain Ghullam
Published: March 2024

Automotive bumper beams play a very crucial role in absorbing impact energy during crash collisions and reducing damage from the front or rear ends of the vehicle during low or high-velocity impact. This paper discusses the impact of different energy-absorbing materials introduced between the fascia and the metallic beam. A novel recipe, with combinations ranging from 0% to 50% and 20% to 80% of Polypropylene (PP) with Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and Polypropylene (PP) with Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), was prepared by weight and comparative study based on their impact strengths was done both experimentally and numerically. The mechanical properties of the polymer blends have been determined under tensile, compressive, and impact testing. Results obtained from numerical simulation analysis lie in reasonable agreement with the experimental findings. The tensile and compression test results show that polymer blend PP/EPDM-50/50 is the best selection as an energy absorber due to its ductility and toughness properties which is evident from experimental testing. The introduction of this blend in front of the metallic strip (bumper beam) has significantly supported the improvement in the energy-absorbing capacity and impact strength.
A new statistical-quality-control methodology for panel line monitoring in shipyards
Authors: Maisano Domenico A , Mastrogiacomo Luca , Franceschini Fiorenzo , Capizzi Salvatore , Pischedda Gianandrea , Laurenza Daniele , Gomiero Giorgio , Manca Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

The construction of cruise ship hulls is a complex process that involves various stages: it begins with the fabrication of panels, which involves marking, cutting, and shaping metal plates of considerable length, followed by the welding of rigid structural components onto these panels. To minimize delays and cost overruns, it is crucial to detect any anomalies early on and rectify them through appropriate repair work. Therefore, real-time conformity verifications and effective Statistical Quality Control (SQC) methodologies are necessary. This paper proposes a novel SQC methodology, specifically tailored for monitoring the panel line in cruise-ship shipyards. This methodology, while adopting a traditional standardized p control chart with samples of variable size, integrates two original aspects: (i) it accounts for the significant level of customization and specific quality characteristics inherent in the different panels and (ii) it rigorously considers the measurement uncertainty associated with the large-volume metrology instruments (such as state-of-the-art total stations, laser trackers or laser scanners) used for conformity verification, following the ISO 14253-1:2017 standard. The methodology is exemplified through a real-world case study, providing practical insights into its application.
Does circularity mean energy transition and energy security? novel evidence from European countries
Authors: Ha Nguyen Thi Thu , Huyen Nguyen Thi Thanh , Hoa Tran Thi Mai , Ha Le Thanh
Published: March 2024

Our paper focuses on disentangling the non-linear connection between circularity (CE) and energy security (ES). In order to evaluate the availability, acceptability, and developability of energy, we incorporated seven variables. The degree of circularity in European countries can be assessed by using six different measures. Using data from European Statistics, we examine variables from 2012 to 2019. We employ FGLS and PSCE estimation methods to quantify the effects of circularity on three aspects of energy security. Our findings are critical that circularity has non-linear impacts on the consumption of non-fossil fuels, energy, carbon dioxide emissions, and renewable energy. The result is consistent and robust when we apply different measures for circularity. The effect is maintained in the long run. Although the circular economy can have short-term negative effects, it can also have long-term benefits. Our research findings provide important implications for policymakers in terms of promoting the success of the use of circularity initiatives in securing the energy system.
Sustainability, profitability, and resiliency of the fast fashion industries during a pandemic
Authors: Meskini Meriem , Mahmud Tanvir S. , Ray Sagar , Richter Amy , Sithi Tahlima T. , Ng Kelvin Tsun Wai
Published: March 2024

The size of the global textile market was estimated at nearly one trillion USD in 2021 and the circularity of fashion items are of utmost practical and economic interests. Many postconsumer textile wastes are not recycled, and are sent to landfills for permanent disposal. This study examines the profitability of the selected fashion companies and compares the financial performance through weighted average net profit margin and business characteristics. The 10 companies are divided into 2 groups (conventional and sustainability) for analysis. The conventional fashion companies have a total sales revenue approximately 23 times higher than that of the sustainability fashion companies. The weighted average net profit ratio of the conventional fashion industry averaging +4.7 during the 5-year study period, much higher than the sustainability fashion group. Sustainability fashion industry is emerging and appears more sensitive to fluctuations in business expenses and COVID lockdowns. Net profit was negative for the sustainability group in 2022, and more aids such as government initiatives and incentive programs may be critical to the growth of the sustainability fashion sector. Both sustainability and conventional groups have positive relations between net profit and number of employees and net profit and market shares, respectively. The results suggest that fashion industry has opportunities to be more profitable by adopting socially responsible goals.
The Stonehenge bluestones did not come from Waun Mawn in West Wales
Authors: John Brian
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the hypothesis that Waun Mawn in West Wales provided the bluestone monoliths that were used at Stonehenge. Some archaeologists believe that the site supports the last remains of a giant stone circle or ‘Proto Stonehenge’ which was dismantled and transported to Salisbury Plain around 5000 years ago. It was claimed, after three excavation seasons at Waun Mawn in 2017, 2018 and 2021, that there is firm evidence of some standing stones which were later removed or broken up, but it has still not been demonstrated that there ever was a small stone circle here, let alone a ‘giant’ one. Furthermore, there have been no control studies in the neighbourhood which might demonstrate that the speculative feature has any unique characteristics. There is nothing at Waun Mawn to link this site in any way to Stonehenge, and this is confirmed by recent cited research. No evidence has been brought forward in support of the claim that ‘this was one of the great religious and political centres of Neolithic Britain’. It is concluded that at Waun Mawn and elsewhere in West Wales there has been substantial ‘interpretative inflation’ driven by the desire to demonstrate a Stonehenge connection.
Significant heightened methylation levels of RUNX3 gene promoter in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ehtesham Naeim , Alesaeidi Samira , Mohammad Zadeh Dorita , Saghaei Mozhdeh , Fakhri Maryam , Bayati Zahra , Esmaeilzadeh Emran , Mosallaei Meysam
Published: March 2024

Objective

Researchers are actively investigating new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers that offer improved sensitivity and specificity for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). One area of interest is DNA methylation changes. Previous studies have shown a connection between the RUNX3 gene dysfunction and SLE. In this study, the focus was on examining the methylation level of the RUNX3 promoter in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of SLE patients and healthy individuals.

Methods

A total of 80 individuals diagnosed with SLE from Iran, along with 77 healthy individuals, were included. The methylation levels of the RUNX3 gene in the extracted DNA were evaluated using the MethyQESD method. To determine the diagnostic effectiveness of the RUNX3 promoter methylation level, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated.

Results

The methylation of the RUNX3 promoter was found to be significantly higher in patients with SLE compared to healthy individuals ( p < .001). This difference in methylation levels was observed between SLE patients and healthy individuals and between SLE patients with renal involvement and those without renal involvement (86.29 ± 10.30 vs 40.28 ± 24.21, p < .001). ROC analyses revealed that the methylation level of the RUNX3 promoter had a diagnostic power of 0.769 [95% CI (0.681–0.814)] for SLE. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between the RUNX3 methylation level and levels of creatinine and C4.

Conclusion

The findings of this study emphasize the potential use of RUNX3 methylation levels in PBMCs of SLE patients as biomarkers for diagnosing the disease, predicting renal damage, and assessing disease activity.
Examining the impact of COVID-19 disruptions on population-based breast cancer screening in Ireland
Authors: O’Driscoll Jessica , Mooney Therese , Kearney Paul , Williams Yvonne , Lynch Suzanne , Connors Alissa , Larke Aideen , McNally Sorcha , O’Doherty Ann , Murphy Laura , Bennett Kathleen E. , Fitzpatrick Patricia , Mullooly Maeve , Flanagan Fidelma
Published: March 2024

Objective

Many population-based breast screening programmes temporarily suspended routine screening following the COVID-19 pandemic onset. This study aimed to describe screening mammography utilisation and the pattern of screen-detected breast cancer diagnoses following COVID-19-related screening disruptions in Ireland.

Methods

Using anonymous aggregate data from women invited for routine screening, three time periods were examined: (1) January–December 2019, (2) January–December 2020, and (3) January–December 2021. Descriptive statistics were conducted and comparisons between groups were performed using chi-square tests.

Results

In 2020, screening mammography capacity fell by 67.1% compared to 2019; recovering to 75% of mammograms performed in 2019, during 2021. Compared to 2019, for screen-detected invasive breast cancers, a reduction in Grade 1 (14.2% vs. 17.2%) and Grade 2 tumours (53.4% vs. 58.0%) and an increase in Grade 3 tumours (32.4% vs. 24.8%) was observed in 2020 ( p = 0.03); whereas an increase in Grade 2 tumours (63.3% vs. 58.0%) and a reduction in Grade 3 tumours (19.6% vs. 24.8%) was found in 2021 ( p = 0.02). No changes in oestrogen receptor-positive or nodal-positive diagnoses were observed; however the proportion of oestrogen/progesterone receptor-positive breast cancers significantly increased in 2020 (76.2%; p < 0.01) and 2021 (78.7%; p < 0.001) compared to 2019 (67.8%).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate signs of a grade change for screen-detected invasive breast cancers early in the pandemic, with recovery evident in 2021, and without an increase in nodal positivity. Future studies are needed to determine the COVID-19 impact on long-term breast cancer outcomes including mortality.
In-School Suspension Through the Lens of Whiteness as Property: Exploring a School District’s Role in Maintaining Educational Inequality
Authors: Wiley Kathryn E. , Trujillo Miguel , Anyon Yolanda (Yoli)
Published: March 2024

Despite impacting almost three million students annually, and disproportionately impacting Black students, little is known about district policy and central office staff in the use of in-school suspension. The purpose of this study was to understand how districts use in-school suspension over time, with attention to racial disparities, programmatic changes, and central office perspectives. Case study methods were used to examine in-school suspension in one large school district in the Western United States. Data included two district board school discipline policies, quantitative in-school suspension data, and interviews with central office staff. We found a history of on-going racial disparities for Black and Latinx students and that decisions made by central office about in-school suspension had likely sustained these disparities over time. District policy goals of reducing racial disparities were found to be largely rhetorical in the face of an ethos of non-enforcement. Central office administrators believed they lacked the power to hold school principals accountable for implementing school discipline policy with fidelity to redressing racial disparities. Through the concept of Whiteness as Property, we argue these patterns demonstrated central office administrators’ protection of White educational and political propertied interests above those of educational opportunities for Black and Latinx students. This study contributes to the literature on in-school suspension by finding discrepancies between policy and practice and contributes to the field’s understanding of how school autonomy can undermine equity-oriented school discipline policies through racial negligence.
Cerebrovascular Complications in Spinal Fusion Surgery: A Nationwide 8-year Follow-up Study in South Korea
Authors: Bae Youngoh , Yon Dong Keon , Lee Seung Won
Published: March 2024

This retrospective study investigated the long-term incidence and risk of postoperative complications following spinal fusion. This study included 640,366 participants from a National Health Examination cohort in the Republic of Korea. Among them, 11,699 individuals underwent spinal fusion, and 56,667 individuals who underwent non-fusion spinal procedures served as controls. Propensity score matching was used to account for patient characteristics including demographic factors, comorbidities, and other relevant variables. The participants were followed for 8 years to assess the occurrence of cerebrovascular disease (CVD), hemorrhagic infarction (HA), ischemic infarction (II), occlusion and stenosis, and ischemic heart disease (IHD). The incidence rates of CVD and IHD were found to be 27.58 and 31.45 per 1,000 person-years in the spinal fusion group compared to 18.68 and 25.73 per 1,000 person-years in the control group ( p < .001), respectively. Patients who underwent spinal fusion had a higher risk of CVD, HA, and IHD than those in the control group (all p < .001). In the subgroup analysis, thoracolumbar and noncervical spinal fusion were associated with a higher risk of CVD, II, and IHD (all p < .005). Patients undergoing thoracolumbar fusion may have an increased association with CVD, II in cerebral arteries, and IHD. This suggests a need for careful consideration of vascular risks in such patient populations.
Assessing Appearance, Speech, and Hearing (dis)Satisfaction in Individuals with Cleft Lip and/or Palate: A Contribution to General Population Norms
Authors: Stock Nicola M. , Costa Bruna , White Paul , Eve Lauren , Bates Amanda J.
Published: March 2024

Background

Individuals with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) may grow up with a visible facial difference, alongside speech and/or hearing challenges. Self-perceptions are stronger predictors of psychosocial adjustment than objective assessments, highlighting the importance of patient-reported outcome measures. Previously titled the Satisfaction with Appearance (SwA) questionnaire, the Cleft Hearing, Appearance and Speech Questionnaire (CHASQ) has been used in several countries to assess patient satisfaction, guide clinical decision-making, and conduct craniofacial research, but has lacked general population norms from which to draw comparisons. The aim of this study was to contribute to the development of norms by utilising existing data collected in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2004 using the original SwA.

Methods

SwA data collected from school pupils ( n = 761) aged 10–16 years were analysed across age and gender.

Results

Hair, Eyes and Ears received the highest ratings, while Teeth received the lowest ratings. Those who were younger, and those who were male, generally rated their appearance more favourably. Thresholds are proposed to identify young people in need of clinical monitoring (10%) and intervention (5%).

Discussion

This study supports the potential of the CHASQ as a clinically useful outcome measure and research tool with the ability to identify appearance concerns in relation to specific facial features, as well as overall appearance satisfaction in young people with and without CL/P. Further validation of its use in the CL/P population and other patient groups, as well as countries outside the UK would add additional weight to the CHASQ's utility.
Learning Newsvendor Problems With Intertemporal Dependence and Moderate Non-stationarities
Authors: Qi Meng , Shen Zuo-Jun(Max) , Zheng Zeyu
Published: March 2024

This work provides performance guarantees for solving data-driven contextual newsvendor problems when the contextual data contains intertemporal dependence and non-stationarities. While machine learning tools have observed increasing use in data-driven inventory management problems, most of the existing work assumes that the contextual data are independent and identically distributed (often referred to as i.i.d.). However, such assumptions are often violated in real operational environments where the contextual data are sequentially generated with intertemporal correlations and possible non-stationarities. By accommodating these naturally arising operational environments, our work adopts comparatively more realistic assumptions and develops out-of-sample performance bounds for learning data-driven contextual newsvendor problems.
Trade-offs Between Equity and Efficiency in Prioritizing Critical Infrastructure Investments: A Case of Stormwater Management Systems
Authors: Baghersad Milad , Zobel Christopher W , Farahani Mehdi H , Behara Ravi S
Published: March 2024

Critical infrastructures in many countries face the problem of aging and, thus, require significant upgrades to continue serving their purpose for the next few decades, especially in the face of extreme weather events caused by global climate change. Given the urgent need for such improvements and the substantial funding gaps being experienced, prioritizing investments in critical infrastructures is a challenging task for governments. Furthermore, the need to assure equitable solutions, as well as to consider deep uncertainty due to climate change, adds to the complexity of the problem. We seek to address this complexity by developing a set of models that explicitly consider both horizontal and vertical equity, along with efficiency, in prioritizing stormwater infrastructure improvement projects. While horizontal equity seeks to provide equal resources to everyone, vertical equity aims to allocate relatively more resources to vulnerable groups who are disproportionately susceptible to shocks and are more likely to fall into chronic poverty. By differentiating between losses in horizontal equity and vertical equity due to efficiency considerations, the models provide a practical approach to find the right balance among efficiency, horizontal equity, and vertical equity. The initial models are then extended into regret-based optimization models to help address the issue of deep uncertainty. A case study of stormwater infrastructure improvement in the City of Miami is presented, through which the performance of the models is explored both with and without the projected sea-level rise scenarios. The findings highlight the value of the proposed approach in promoting equity while maintaining efficiency.
Implementing Tourniquet Conversion Guidelines for Civilian EMS and Prehospital Organizations : A Case Report and Review
Authors: Standifird Colin H. , Kaisler Sean , Triplett Hunter , Lauria Michael J. , Fisher Andrew D. , Harrell Andrew J. , White Chelsea C.
Published: March 2024

Since the first documented use of a tourniquet in 1674, the popularity of tourniquets has waxed and waned. During recent wars and more recently in Emergency Medical Services systems, the tourniquet has been proven to be a valuable tool in the treatment of life-threatening hemorrhage. However, tourniquet use is not without risk, and several studies have demonstrated adverse events and morbidity associated with tourniquet use in the prehospital setting, particularly when left in place for more than 2 h. Consequently, the US military's Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care has recommended guidelines for prehospital tourniquet conversion to reduce the risk of adverse events associated with tourniquets once the initial hemorrhage has been controlled. Emergency Medical Services systems that operate in rural, frontier, and austere environments, especially those with transport times to definitive care that routinely exceed 2 h, may consider implementing similar tourniquet conversion guidelines.
Regulatory Capture in Transboundary Waste Dumping: (Lack of) Accountability in the Global North–South Context
Authors: Wijethilake Chaminda , Adhikari Pawan , Upadhaya Bedanand
Published: March 2024

By showcasing Sri Lanka’s repatriation of hazardous hospital waste to the United Kingdom, this paper explores how the transboundary movement of waste management business model functions in the Global South. It builds on a framework that integrates the market and legal modes of accountability, regulatory capture, and an ethic of accountability. Data were collected using online ethnography and an interpretive case study method. The study demonstrates how the adherence to market and legal modes of accountability and the violation of an ethic of accountability have created loopholes for actors to capture regulatory and institutional provisions, making the transboundary waste management business redundant in the Global South. The traditional business model pursued in waste management has proved inadequate in realizing reciprocal societal rights and responsibilities and promoting public well-being. This has resulted in an erosion of public trust in government and state agencies. Thus, we argue that accountability-based accounting and the ethic of accountability can potentially mitigate the opportunities for regulatory capture, serve the public interests, and protect the ecosystem.
Successful management of fatal cardiac tamponade resulting from intravascular intervention for central vein occlusion in hemodialysis patients: A case report
Authors: Lei Wenhui , Huang Weidong , Xin Jun
Published: March 2024

This case report highlights the successful management of fatal cardiac tamponade caused by intravascular intervention for central vein occlusion in hemodialysis patients. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for patient prognosis in such cases. We present a case involving a challenging surgical procedure to address multiple complications, emphasizing the importance of early detection and appropriate interventions. The patient, who had a history of long-term central venous catheter use for hemodialysis, was diagnosed with central vein stenosis in addition to superior vena cava occlusion, hemodialysis catheter rupture, hypertension, and end-stage renal disease. Urgent ultrasound examination during surgery revealed pericardial effusion, prompting immediate pericardial drainage for stabilization. To overcome the complex challenges, we successfully performed an innominate vein-right atrial appendage bypass to restore vascular access and salvage the patient’s life. The timely use of echocardiography for diagnosis and pericardial drainage contributed to stabilizing the patient’s vital signs, providing an opportunity for subsequent surgical intervention. The innominate vein-right atrial appendage bypass procedure successfully relieved central vein stenosis and saved the patient’s life. Although this surgical technique is not widely documented in hemodialysis patients with central venous involvement, it show cases the potential benefits for clinicians managing vascular access in this patient population. This case report underscores the need for awareness among clinicians regarding the risk of cardiac tamponade associated with intravascular intervention for central vein stenosis in hemodialysis patients. Minimizing central venous catheterization and prioritizing autogenous arteriovenous fistulas are crucial principles in preparing vascular access for hemodialysis patients. Early detection, timely interventions, and consideration of alternative surgical techniques can improve outcomes and prevent life-threatening complications.
Risk of multiple sclerosis in individuals with infectious mononucleosis: a national population-based cohort study using hospital records in England, 2003–2023
Authors: Goldacre Raphael
Published: March 2024

Background:

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is thought to be a necessary causative agent in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). Infectious mononucleosis (IM), which occurs up to 70% of adolescents and young adults with primary EBV infection, appears to be a further risk factor but few studies have been highly powered enough to explore this association by time since IM diagnosis.

Objective:

The objective was to quantify the risk of MS in individuals with IM compared with the general population, with particular focus on time since IM diagnosis.

Methods:

In this retrospective cohort study using English national Hospital Episode Statistics from 2003 to 2023, patients with a hospital diagnosis of IM were compared with the general population for MS incidence.

Results:

MS incidence in patients with IM was nearly three times higher than the general population after multivariable adjustment (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.8, 95% confidence interval (CI = 2.3–3.4), driven by strong associations at long time intervals (>5 years) between IM diagnosis and subsequent MS diagnosis.

Conclusion:

While EBV infection may be a prerequisite for MS, the disease process of IM (i.e. the body’s defective immune response to primary EBV infection) seems to be, in addition, implicated over the long term.
No evidence for association between rs10191329 severity locus and longitudinal disease severity in 1813 relapse-onset multiple sclerosis patients from the MSBase registry
Authors: Campagna Maria Pia , Havrdova Eva Kubala , Horakova Dana , Izquierdo Guillermo , Matesanz Fuencisla , Eichau Sara , Lechner-Scott Jeannette , Taylor Bruce V , García-Sanchéz Maria-Isabel , Alcina Antonio , van der Walt Anneke , Butzkueven Helmut , Jokubaitis Vilija G
Published: March 2024

Background:

The International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium and MultipleMS Consortium recently reported a genetic variant associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) severity. However, it remains unclear if these variants remain associated with more robust, longitudinal measures of disease severity.

Methods:

We examined the top variant, rs10191329, from Harroud et al.’s study in 1813 relapse-onset MS patients from the MSBase Registry to assess association with longitudinal disease severity.

Results:

Our analysis revealed no significant association between rs10191329 genotype and longitudinal binary disease severity ( p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

These findings highlight the complexity of genetic factors mediating long-term MS outcomes and the need for further research.
Music therapy in eating disorder treatment and its synergy with systemic and family-based therapy approaches: A systematic review
Authors: Seppendorf Sarah , Hoorman Julia , Schloeßer Natalie , Jaschke Artur C
Published: March 2024

Eating disorders are serious psychosomatic disorders and constitute the most common chronic disorder of female adolescence. Men experience a later onset but appear to constitute around 25% of adult cases. Due to their comorbidities and high mortality rate, these conditions pose a significant health risk. Although systemic and family therapy are considered among the most successful treatment modalities in adolescence, there is a need for expanded treatment options. With this background, the question arises as to what extent music therapy is already integrated into treatments. This review aims to include studies on music, music therapy, and eating disorders in general and covering all age groups. In all, 26 studies met the criteria for review, with a total of 1026 participants. None of the studies used music therapy combined with systemic or family-based therapy. However, despite differences between study designs, the individual studies show commonalities in their interventions and a relationship to the systemic and family-based approach. This review suggests that music therapy may be a valuable complement to the treatment modalities of systemic and family-based therapies as well as to constellations and sculpture approaches in eating disorders treatment. Further research is recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of such combined approaches.
“Puro English and a little bit of Spanish”: Bi/multilingual kindergarteners’ language ideologies in a dual language bilingual class during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Buckband Cory , Kaveh Yalda M. , Ozbek-Damar Seda , Yuhas Brandon
Published: March 2024

Aims:

The goal of the study is to examine bi/multilingual children’s language beliefs and their contributions to school and family language policies in a two-way dual language bilingual education (DLBE) program in the United States while participating in online schooling from home.

Methodology:

We report from a larger critical ethnographic study with a Title I K-8 school in Arizona. The data for this study are based on ethnographic fieldwork during the 2020–2021 academic year with a DLBE kindergarten cohort.

Data and analysis:

We conducted semi-weekly class observations and individual semi-structured interviews with 12 bi/multilingual kindergarten children. Data analysis entailed a multi-step thematic analysis through several rounds of focused coding.

Findings:

Our findings show that the children were deeply aware of the languages they spoke, their proficiency in each, how they chose to express those proficiencies, and the way they identified with each language. We identify ways that children agentively used language to transcend separative language policies by using language fluidly.

Originality:

The study contributes to the literature on young children’s language policymaking and their reproductive and resistive forms of agency. Our child participants were 5 and 6 years old, an underrepresented age in research that connects school and family language policies. Furthermore, this group’s linguistic, racial-ethnic, and cultural diversity allows for a deeper glimpse into how bi/multilingual children develop complex identities.

Implications:

The study has implications for the importance of pedagogical and linguistic flexibility with young children in DLBE programs. The study shows the importance of how young bi/multilingual children respond to the processes of implementing a program by highlighting the role and position of each language in their home and school environments.