bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey of Blockchain Consensus Protocols
Authors: Xu Jie , Wang Cong , Jia Xiaohua
Published: January 2023

Blockchain consensus protocols have been a focus of attention since the advent of Bitcoin. Although classic distributed consensus algorithms made significant contributions to the development of blockchain consensus protocols, there are still many issues to be resolved due to the complexity and diversity of the blockchain. In this survey, we summarize the state-of-the-art blockchain consensus protocols. We first introduce the theoretical basis, models, and challenges of blockchain consensus protocols. Then, we present the existing blockchain protocols in the categories of proof-based protocols, committee-based protocols, and other miscellaneous protocols. Finally, we analyze their performance and discuss future research directions by comparing existing protocols.
Natural Killer Cells in the Human Uterine Mucosa
Authors: Male Victoria , Moffett Ashley
Published: January 2023

The presence of granulated lymphocytes in the human uterine mucosa, known as decidua during pregnancy, or endometrium otherwise, was first noted in the nineteenth century, but it was not until 1990 that these cells were identified as a type of natural killer (NK) cell. From the outset, uterine NK (uNK) cells were found to be less cytotoxic than their circulating counterparts, peripheral NK (pNK) cells. Recently, unbiased approaches have defined three subpopulations of uNK cells, all of which cluster separately from pNK cells. Here, we review the history of research into uNK cells, including their ability to interact with placental extravillous trophoblast cells and their potential role in regulating placental implantation. We go on to review more recent advances that focus on uNK cell development and heterogeneity and their potential to defend against infection and to mediate memory effects. Finally, we consider how a better understanding of these cells could be leveraged in the future to improve outcomes of pregnancy for mothers and babies.
Predictive Modeling of Electrodeposition in a Single Pore Flow-Through Electrode: From Electronucleation to Coating Thickness Uniformity
Authors: Clemens Auston L. , Davis Jonathan T. , Orme Christine A. , Ivanovskaya Anna , Akolkar Rohan , Dudukovic Nikola A.
Published: January 2023

The emergence of advanced manufacturing methods capable of producing porous three-dimensional structures has expanded the design space for next-generation functional components. The ability to fabricate ordered 3D foams for use in electrocatalysis reactors has increased the need for controlled deposition of catalytic metals onto porous support materials, such as carbon. However, there is a lack of clear design guidelines for electrodeposition onto 3D substrates, due to the geometric complexity and multi-scale nature of the problem. Furthermore, electro-nucleation phenomena are often overlooked in macro-scale models of current distribution during deposition. Here, a graphite flow-through electrode (FTE) is used as a model system for copper deposition within a single pore. Potential distributions and electro-nucleation phenomena are coupled in a continuum level model by incorporating nucleation size and density as a function of overpotential, determined experimentally using in situ atomic force microscopy (AFM). The model predictions are validated by measuring the coating uniformity in the pore using micro-computed X-ray tomography (μCT). A scaling analysis comprising dimensionless parameters such as the Wagner number is presented. The simplified scaling relationship framework can guide the electrodeposition process and electrode design to optimize plating of porous substrates under fluid flow conditions.
Electromechanical Fatigue Properties of Dielectric Elastomer Capacitive Sensors Based on Plantarflexion of the Human Ankle Joint
Authors: Persons Andrea Karen , Middleton Carver , Parker Erin , Ball John E. , Burch V. Reuben F. , Macias David , Simpson C. LaShan , Elder Steven H.
Published: January 2023

Wearable stretch sensors have potential applications across many fields including medicine and sports, but the accuracy of the data produced by the sensors over repeated uses is largely unknown due to a paucity of high-cycle fatigue (HCF) studies on both the materials comprising the sensors and the signal produced by the sensors. To overcome these limitations, using human physiologically-based parameters, stretch sensors were subjected to quasi-static testing and HCF with simultaneous capture of the signal. The strain produced by the sensor was then compared to the strain produced by testing instrument, and the results suggest that the output from the stretch sensors is strongly correlated with output from the testing instrument under quasi-static conditions; however, this correlation deteriorates under fatigue conditions. Such deterioration may be the result of several factors, including a mismatch between the material response to fatiguing and the signal response to fatiguing. From a materials perspective, the shape of the stress-life curve for the polymers comprising the sensors conforms to the Rabinowitz-Beardmore model of polymer fatigue. Based on these results, consideration of the material properties of a stretch sensor are necessary to determine how accurate the output from the sensor will be for a given application.
Saccadic inhibition during free viewing in macaque monkeys
Authors: Orczyk John J. , Barczak Annamaria , O’Connell Monica N. , Kajikawa Yoshinao
Published: January 2023

We investigated the time courses of saccade rate following visual stimuli during three conditions of free viewing in macaque monkeys. Under all conditions, saccade rate decreased transiently after the onset of visual stimuli. These results suggest that saccadic inhibition occurs during free viewing.
Consolidation Attributes and Deformation Response of Soft Clay Reinforced with Vertical Scoria Drains under Road Embankment
Authors: Gebretsadik Hailemariam Merka , Melese Damtew Tsige , Negesa Adamu Beyene
Published: January 2023

Application of vertical drains in soft clay soils is a common practice widely known to facilitate the consolidation rate. To overcome the adverse impact of a long-lasting consolidation process, highly permeable materials such as sand and crushed aggregates are used as drains. However, limited information exists regarding the applicability of scoria gravel as a vertical drain that no concisely documented information is observed in the literature. This study hence aimed at investigating suitability of scoria as a vertical drain in perpetuating the consolidation process of soft clay under highway embankment. Finite element-based numerical simulation was used to model the drain. The model was carried out by using 3D version of Plaxis software. In order to incorporate the effect of gradual load increment on the consolidation rate, the staged construction approach was employed. Both the square and triangular installation patterns were considered in the model in order to explore the critical effects of the drain installation pattern on the rate of consolidation. The numerical analysis also included varying dimensions of the vertical drain so as to investigate the effects of the dimension parameters of the vertically installed scoria drains. The conducted numerical analysis revealed that the rate of consolidation was considerably accelerated with provision of a group of scoria drains. With increase in the diameter of the drain, the consolidation rate increases, whereas the consolidation rate is inversely related to increase in drain spacing. For the drain installed at a spacing of 2 m, a diameter of 0.4 m, and a length of 8 m any arbitrary settlement magnitude is achieved 25 days earlier than the case without drains. Besides, incorporation of scoria drains lessens the pore pressure developed. The comparative analysis conducted on the effect of drain arrangement revealed that no considerable difference was witnessed in the performance of the square and triangular installation patterns even though the consolidation rate remains slightly faster in the case of the triangular installation pattern.
Fractal Characteristics and Acoustic Emission during the Failure Process of Argillaceous Siltstone with Different Moisture Contents
Authors: Song Haoran , Li Shouyu , Xu Jiachen , Zhang Qingwen , Zhi Yonghui
Published: January 2023

Compressive strength and tensile strength are the critical parameters to determine rock performance, which can reflect the rock’s resistance to deformation and damage. Brazilian indirect tensile and uniaxial compression tests were carried out on rocks under different water immersion conditions to study acoustic emission (AE) characteristics and crack propagation during rock fracture. The test results show that water has a deteriorating effect on the argillaceous siltstone, with significant attenuation of both compressive and tensile strengths. With the increase in moisture content, the number of AE events decreased, the cumulative AE ringing count showed a gradual rise in steps, and the proportion of AE peak frequencies in the range of 0-200 kHz gradually increased. Natural rock samples are more brittle than water-saturated rock samples. The higher frequency of AE events and the higher energy released during the destruction of natural rock samples reflect in the clustering of high-energy AE source locus near the main rupture surface. The AE source locus is 1-2 energy levels higher in the vicinity of the fracture surface than in the water-saturated rock samples. The rock samples exhibited random packing of mineral particles and contained many clay minerals by SEM analysis of fracture microstructure. Water dissolves mineral particles and cementitious materials, producing microcracks with propagation potential. Analysis of the AE time sequence based on fractal theory reveals that fractal dimension value varies with the increase of moisture content. The variation of the fractal dimension

D

values for the water-saturated rock samples ranges from 0.4 to 0.65. This indicates that the number of microcracks is higher and their propagation more complex when the moisture content of the specimen is higher. The failure characteristics of the rock samples in the above research can provide a reference for monitoring rock mass stability under tunnel water inflow.
Estudo das tendências em Relações Públicas: Análise dos Trabalhos focados em Comunicação, inovação e tecnologias da Abrapcorp de 2015 a 2020
Authors: Nunes Beatriz de Souza , Gomes Junior Jonas da Silva
Published: January 2023

Este artigo analisa os resultados de um estudo científico sobre os trabalhos apresentados no grupo de trabalho "Comunicação, Inovação e Tecnologia" da Associação Brasileira de Pesquisadores em Comunicação Organizacional e Relações Públicas (Abrapcorp) no período de 2015 a 2020. Os procedimentos metodológicos utilizados foram: pesquisa bibliográfica, revisão de literatura, mapeamento, análise de conteúdo e classificação. A análise de conteúdo foi selecionada como recurso metodológico para mapear as temáticas dos trabalhos apresentados no referido grupo de trabalho e destacar os objetos mais estudados, métodos e técnicas de pesquisa, bem como avanços científicos. Elencamos cinco principais tendências de pesquisa em inovação no âmbito da Comunicação Organizacional e Relações Públicas.
Gyarmathi, pioneiro esquecido da linguística comparativa fino-ugriana
Authors: Jovanović Aleksandar
Published: January 2023

linguista e médico húngaro Sámuel Gyarmathi (1751-1830) foi um pioneiro nos estudos de linguística comparativa relativos às línguas da família fino-ugriana. Porém, a sua figura foi simplesmente ignorada pelos historiadores da ciência da linguagem, que acabaram colocando em relevo outros nomes. O presente texto situa, de modo breve, o contexto em que surgiram as pesquisas comparadas dessa família de idiomas. A seguir, discorre a respeito da ativa vida de nosso personagem. No terceiro bloco, faz uma rápida análise de duas obras de Gyarmathi. Por fim, alinhava alguns fatos referentes a essas línguas e tece considerações finais.
Adolescent Psychological Assets and Cardiometabolic Health Maintenance in Adulthood: Implications for Health Equity
Authors: Qureshi Farah , Guimond Anne‐Josee , Tsao Elaine , Delaney Scott , Boehm Julia K. , Kubzansky Laura D.
Published: January 2023

Background

Positive cardiometabolic health (CMH) is defined as meeting recommended levels of multiple cardiometabolic risk factors in the absence of manifest disease. Prior work finds that few individuals—particularly members of minoritized racial and ethnic groups—meet these criteria. This study investigated whether psychological assets help adolescents sustain CMH in adulthood and explored interactions by race and ethnicity.

Methods and Results

Participants were 3478 individuals in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (49% female; 67% White, 15% Black, 11% Latinx, 6% other [Native American, Asian, or not specified]). In Wave 1 (1994–1995; mean age=16 years), data on 5 psychological assets (optimism, happiness, self‐esteem, belongingness, and feeling loved) were used to create a composite asset index (range=0–5). In Waves 4 (2008; mean age=28 years) and 5 (2016–2018; mean age=38 years), CMH was defined using 7 clinically assessed biomarkers. Participants with healthy levels of ≥6 biomarkers at Waves 4 and 5 were classified as maintaining CMH over time. The prevalence of CMH maintenance was 12%. Having more psychological assets was associated with better health in adulthood (odds ratio [OR]
linear trend
, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.01–1.25]). Subgroup analyses found substantive associations only among Black participants (OR, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.00–1.82]). Additionally, there was some evidence that racial and ethnic disparities in CMH maintenance may be less pronounced among participants with more assets.

Conclusions

Youth with more psychological assets were more likely to experience favorable CMH patterns 2 decades later. The strongest associations were observed among Black individuals. Fostering psychological assets in adolescence may help prevent cardiovascular disease and play an underappreciated role in shaping health inequities.
Phonological and Semantic Specialization in 9- to 10-Year-Old Children During Auditory Word Processing
Authors: Wang Jin , Yamasaki Brianna L. , Booth James R.
Published: January 2023

One of the core features of brain maturation is functional specialization. Previous research has found that 7- to 8-year-old children start to specialize in both the temporal and frontal lobes. However, as children continue to develop their phonological and semantic skills rapidly until approximately 10 years old, it remained unclear whether any changes in specialization later in childhood would be detected. Thus, the goal of the current study was to examine phonological and semantic specialization in 9- to 10-year-old children during auditory word processing. Sixty-one children were included in the analysis. They were asked to perform a sound judgment task and a meaning judgment task, each with both hard and easy conditions to examine parametric effects. Consistent with previous results from 7- to 8-year-old children, direct task comparisons revealed language specialization in both the temporal and frontal lobes in 9- to 10-year-old children. Specifically, the left dorsal inferior frontal gyrus showed greater activation for the sound than the meaning task whereas the left middle temporal gyrus showed greater activation for the meaning than the sound task. Interestingly, in contrast to the previously reported finding that 7- to 8-year-old children primarily engage a general control region during the harder condition for both tasks, we showed that 9- to 10-year-old children recruited language-specific regions to process the more difficult task conditions. Specifically, the left superior temporal gyrus showed greater activation for the phonological parametric manipulation whereas the left ventral inferior frontal gyrus showed greater activation for the semantic parametric manipulation.
A Private Life of a Communal Leader: The Autobiography of Aryeh Leib Feinstein (1821–1903)
Authors: Gellman Uriel
Published: January 2023

This article introduces an unknown autobiography written by Aryeh Leib Feinstein who was a communal official in Brisk (Brześć Litewski). In this detailed memoir, written in 1896 and preserved in manuscript form only, Feinstein describes his life from his childhood in a small village near Brisk up to his adulthood, when he became a wealthy merchant in Brisk and a well-known historian of the local community. This unique egodocument is a subjective interpretation of the profound transformations of Eastern European Jewish culture during the second half of the 19th century. It enables us a better understanding of the complex relationship between the personal and the public spheres during this era and illustrates the need of broadening the setting of the self-fashioning of Jewish individuals.
Vertical Motions in Orographic Cloud Systems over the Payette River Basin. Part II: Fixed and Transient Updrafts and Their Relationship to Forcing
Authors: Zaremba Troy J. , Heimes Kaylee , Rauber Robert M. , Geerts Bart , French Jeffrey R. , Grasmick Coltin , Tessendorf Sarah A. , Xue Lulin , Friedrich Katja , Rasmussen Roy M. , Kunkel Melvin L. , Blestrud Derek R.
Published: January 2023

Updrafts in wintertime cloud systems over mountainous regions can be described as fixed, mechanically driven by the terrain under a given ambient wind and stability profile (i.e., vertically propagating gravity waves tied to flow over topography), and transient, associated primarily with vertical wind shear and conditional instability within passing weather systems. This analysis quantifies the magnitude of fixed and transient updraft structures over the Payette River basin sampled during the Seeded and Natural Orographic Wintertime Clouds: The Idaho Experiment (SNOWIE). Vertical motions were retrieved from Wyoming Cloud Radar measurements of radial velocity using the algorithm presented in Part I. Transient circulations were removed, and fixed orographic circulations were quantified by averaging vertical circulations along repeated cross sections over the same terrain during the campaign. Fixed orographic vertical circulations had magnitudes of 0.3–0.5 m s−1. These fixed vertical circulations were composed of a background circulation in which transient circulations were embedded. Transient vertical circulations are shown to be associated with transient wave motions, cloud-top generating cells, convection, and turbulence. Representative transient vertical circulations are illustrated, and data from rawinsondes over the Payette River basin are used to infer the relationship of the vertical circulations to shear and instability. Maximum updrafts are shown to exceed 5 m s−1 within Kelvin–Helmholtz waves, 4 m s−1 associated with transient gravity waves, 3 m s−1 in generating cells, 6 m s−1 in elevated convection, 4 m s−1 in surface-based deep convection, 5 m s−1 in boundary layer turbulence, and 9 m s−1 in shear-induced turbulence.
Impact of Yucatan Channel Subsurface Velocity Observations on the Gulf of Mexico State Estimates
Authors: Vazquez Heriberto J. , Gopalakrishnan Ganesh , Sheinbaum Julio
Published: January 2023

The Gulf of Mexico (GoM) surface circulation variability is dominated by the Loop Current (LC) and the episodically released anticyclonic Loop Current eddies (LCEs). The Yucatan Current feeds the LC through the Yucatan Channel (YC), and its flow structure at the YC is hypothesized to affect the LC evolution critically. This study examines the impact of assimilating YC subsurface velocity observations from a tall mooring array across the YC on the GoM circulation. State estimates and forecasts of the LC circulation were produced using a regional implementation of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model (MITgcm) and its adjoint-based four-dimensional variational (4DVAR) assimilation system. The estimates were constrained by combinations of the YC observations and satellite-derived sea surface height (SSH) and sea surface temperature (SST). The results show that assimilation of both moored and satellite data improves the model hindcasts and forecasts for all LC phases. Additionally, one realization of the state estimate that assimilates only moored data matches the LCE detachment timing with that of AVISO SSH. Observations from the moorings close to the Yucatan Peninsula significantly impact the LCE detachment. A finite-time Lyapunov exponent analysis reveals the differences among the assimilation experiments, such as eddylike structures intruding into the GoM through the YC, and its relation to the typical LC sudden growth. Finally, an adjoint sensitivity analysis is used to verify the dynamic link between the LC extension and the intrusion of eddylike structures into the GoM.
Associations between mortality and exposure to psychotropic medication: A population-based cohort study for depressive disorders
Authors: Pan Yi-Ju , Yeh Ling-Ling
Published: January 2023

Background:

Use of antidepressants and antipsychotics to treat depressive disorders is becoming increasingly prevalent.

Methods:

This study investigated how the use and cumulative dosage of these medications affect the mortality risk in a Taiwan’s national cohort of individuals ages 15 years and older who were diagnosed with depressive disorders in 2010 and followed up for 5 years. An age- and gender-matched control group was identified. The mean defined daily doses of antidepressants and antipsychotics were calculated, and survival analyses were conducted to examine the effects of exposure dosage on overall mortality and mortality due to cardiovascular diseases, in comparison with the control sample.

Results:

A total of 400,042 individuals (255,288 women; 63.8%) with depressive disorders were identified. A low-to-moderate dosage of antidepressants was associated with a decrease in cardiovascular disease–related mortality risks compared to no exposure for those with depressive disorders. By contrast, a dose-related increase was found when using antipsychotics, with a 1.6-, 2.4- and 2.9-fold risk in the low, moderate and high exposure groups, respectively, for overall mortality, and a 1.2-, 2.4- and 3.5-fold risk in the low, moderate and high exposure groups, respectively, for cardiovascular disease–related mortality, relative to the control sample.

Conclusion:

For individuals with depression, use of low-to-moderate dosage antidepressants was associated with decreased mortality. However, use of antipsychotics was found to be associated with a dose-related increase in overall and cardiovascular disease–related mortality risks. Adverse health outcomes should be also considered when prescribing psychotropic medications to patients with depressive disorders.
Factors associated with past-year medication use and psychotherapy in adults with suicidal ideation in France
Authors: Husky Mathilde M , Léon Christophe , du Roscoät Enguerrand , Vasiliadis Helen-Maria
Published: January 2023

Background:

The objective of the study is to assess the sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with past-year medication use and/or psychotherapy among adults with suicidal ideation in the past 12 months.

Methods:

Data were drawn from the 2017 Health Barometer survey, a large computer-assisted telephone survey on a representative sample of the general population aged 18 to 75 years living in metropolitan France ( n = 25,319). Logistic and multinomial regression analyses were used to study past-year medication use and/or psychotherapy as a function of sociodemographic and clinical factors. Analyses were restricted to individuals reporting suicidal ideation in the past year ( n = 1,148).

Results:

Overall, 43.6% of adults with suicidal ideation reported no treatment for a mental health reason in the past year; 36.6% reported using medication only, 4.8% psychotherapy only, and 15.0% both. Sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with increased probability of treatment varied as a function of the type of treatment received. Adjusting for key factors including clinical factors, older adults with suicidal ideation were more likely than younger adults to receive medication only.

Conclusions:

The findings point to differential inequalities in access to medication and psychotherapy among adults with suicidal ideation in the general population of France.
What Holds Attention? Linguistic Drivers of Engagement
Authors: Berger Jonah , Moe Wendy W. , Schweidel David A.
Published: January 2023

From advertisers and marketers to salespeople and leaders, everyone wants to hold attention. They want to make ads, pitches, presentations, and content that captivates audiences and keeps them engaged. But not all content has that effect. What makes some content more engaging? A multimethod investigation combines controlled experiments with natural language processing of 600,000 reading sessions from over 35,000 pieces of content to examine what types of language hold attention and why. Results demonstrate that linguistic features associated with processing ease (e.g., concrete or familiar words) and emotion both play an important role. Rather than simply being driven by valence, though, the effects of emotional language are driven by the degree to which different discrete emotions evoke arousal and uncertainty. Consistent with this idea, anxious, exciting, and hopeful language holds attention while sad language discourages it. Experimental evidence underscores emotional language's causal impact and demonstrates the mediating role of uncertainty and arousal. The findings shed light on what holds attention; illustrate how content creators can generate more impactful content; and, as shown in a stylized simulation, have important societal implications for content recommendation algorithms.
Precarious and non-precarious work in the informal sector: Evidence from South Africa
Authors: Geyer Hermanus Stephanus
Published: January 2023

The research analyses the precarious and non-precarious work practices within the informal sector. Labour in the informal sector and in regions without strong labour relations is not uniformly precarious but is categorised by a bimodality of incomes, citizenships and conducts. This creates opportunities for insurgent modes of counter-conduct in the interstices of regulations and social conventions, but has also resulted in exclusive local citizenships and revanchist strategies. From numerous in-depth interviews, the study found that the Covid-19 lockdown and economic recession led to a new dialectical relationship between long-term residents and a precariat in-group of non-propertied actors, recent migrants and immigrants in the informal sector. Long-term residents with local citizenship aggregated formal and informal incomes and secondary incomes within the household, elevating them out of precariousness, although primarily active in the informal sector. These included strategies of adverse incorporation and revanchist conducts to maintain incomes for non-precarious workers. Marginalised precarious workers shifted to modes of counter-conduct, hiding the true nature of the business, evading strict social conventions on local trade and pursuing new inter-ethnic citizenships based on strategic partnerships.
Severe copper sulphate poisoning: A case rescued with plasmapheresis
Authors: Shankar Jandhyala Anand , Kaur Anterpreet , Tyagi Lakshay , Selvam Suresh , Hans Rekha , Pannu Ashok Kumar
Published: January 2023

Acute copper sulphate poisoning is associated with multi-organ failure and high mortality. Patients typically present with gastrointestinal symptoms, haemolysis, methaemoglobinaemia, acute liver injury, rhabdomyolysis and renal failure. Management is usually supportive, and the role of chelation therapy has not been established. Copper is not dialysable. Plasmapheresis has been shown to remove protein-bound copper, reducing plasma and intracellular concentrations. We present a case of severe copper sulphate poisoning, who did not improve with chelation therapy with D-penicillamine and supportive care, but with therapeutic plasma exchange (four cycles) showed rapid clinical recovery.
Finite-time boundedness and finite-time stabilization boundedness for nonlinear interconnected systems with Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo fractional derivative
Authors: Huong Dinh Cong
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we consider the finite-time boundedness (FTB) and finite-time stabilization boundedness (FTSB) problems for a class of nonlinear interconnected systems with Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) fractional derivative. By employing the FTB theory and some properties of ABC fractional derivative, and some basic mathematical transformations, we derive new conditions for the FTB and FTSB problems of ABC fractional-order nonlinear interconnected systems. These conditions are formed in linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which can be effectively solved using the MATLAB LMI Control Toolbox. Finally, two numerical examples with simulations are provided to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Stapes Bar—Normal Stapedial Superstructure with a Mobile Footplate Fixed to the Promontory
Authors: Suzuki Shiori , Kunibe Isamu , Ominato Hisataka , Komabayashi Yuki
Published: January 2023

This report describes a case of stapedial superstructure fixation with a mobile footplate, which is a rare occurrence among the ossicular malformations that cause conductive hearing impairment. A 44-year-old man with symptoms of left-sided hearing impairment since childhood presented to our department. The eardrum was normal, and pure tone audiometry showed conductive hearing impairment with a three-frequency (500, 1000, and 2000 Hz) mean of 53.3 dB and a normal tympanogram result. An abnormal shadow was observed on the internal side of the left stapes during the three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomography. We suspected a stapes malformation and performed an exploratory tympanotomy with transcanal endoscopic ear surgery. We found a bony bar between the superstructure of the stapes and the promontory. The mobility of the stapes was significantly improved by removing the bony bar. Findings of postoperative audiometry were normal after surgery. The treatment of such cases of stapedial fixation is simple, and the prognosis of hearing gain after surgery is quite good. Thus, regarding the treatment of patients with conductive hearing impairment, clinicians and surgeons should be aware of the possibility of single stapedial superstructure fixation.
The influence of seated exercises on balance, mobility, and cardiometabolic health outcomes in individuals living with a stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mackie Paul , Eng Janice J
Published: January 2023

Objective

Seated exercises could prove a safe alternative to traditional weight-bearing exercises in stroke, but its effects on mobility and modifiable risk factors of stroke are limited. The objective is to investigate the effects of seated exercises on balance, mobility, and cardiometabolic health in individuals living with a stroke.

Data sources

Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane library were searched up to October 2022, in addition to the 2018 Evidence-Based Review of Stroke Rehabilitation.

Methods

Trials that incorporated predominantly seated exercises and outcomes of balance, mobility, or cardiometabolic health in those living with a stroke were included. Quality assessments of randomized controlled trials were done using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool.

Results

Seven trials were included in the review ( n  =  337) with five trials including participants < 6 months post-stroke. Seated exercises improved balance (standard mean difference (SMD)  =  0.76; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.50, 1.02) and mobility (SMD  =  0.68; 95% CI, 0.24,1.13) outcomes compared with control. Sensitivity analysis of gait speed found no significant change (mean difference (MD)  =  0.33 m/s; 95% CI, −0.23, 0.89) following seated exercises compared with control. One trial found no significant changes in blood pressure. Most trials (78%) were assessed as having some concern for bias.

Conclusion

These findings suggest beneficial effects of seated exercises on balance and mobility outcomes in those with a stroke, compared with standard therapy or an attention control. However, there is limited evidence on the effects of seated exercises on outcomes of cardiometabolic health, particularly prominent modifiable risk factors for stroke.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022307426.
Adenosine receptor stimulation inhibits methamphetamine-associated cue seeking
Authors: Bachtell Ryan K , Larson Tracey A , Winkler Madeline C
Published: January 2023

Background:

Methamphetamine (METH) is a psychostimulant drug that remains a popular and threatening drug of abuse with high abuse liability. There is no established pharmacotherapy to treat METH dependence, but evidence suggests that stimulation of adenosine receptors reduces the reinforcing properties of METH and could be a potential pharmacological target. This study examines the effects of adenosine receptor subtype stimulation on METH seeking using both a cue-induced reinstatement and cue-craving model of relapse.

Methods:

Male and female rats were trained to self-administer METH during daily 2-h sessions. Cue-induced reinstatement of METH seeking was evaluated after extinction training. A systemic pretreatment of an adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) or A2A receptor (A2AR) agonist was administered prior to an extinction or cue session to evaluate the effects of adenosine receptor subtype stimulation on METH seeking. The effects of a systemic pretreatment of A1R or A2AR agonists were also evaluated in a cue-craving model where the cued-seeking test was conducted after 21 days of forced home-cage abstinence without extinction training.

Results:

Cue-induced reinstatement was reduced in both male and female rats that received A1R or A2AR agonist pretreatments. Similarly, an A1R or A2AR agonist pretreatment also inhibited cue craving in both male and female rats.

Conclusion:

Stimulation of either adenosine A1R or A2AR subtypes inhibits METH-seeking behavior elicited by METH-associated cues. These effects may be attributed to the ability of A1R and A2AR stimulation to disrupt cue-induced dopamine and glutamate signaling throughout the brain.
Geographies of devaluation: Spatialities of the German coal exit
Authors: Furnaro Andrea
Published: January 2023

This article analyzes the geographies of the German coal exit by looking at the spatial dimensions of coal devaluation. It argues that while the Energiewende has been described as having a national origin, central triggers of the national coal exit agreement have to do with devaluation pressures created by the combination of global relations in the fuel markets, the territorial bordering of electricity and carbon markets at the European Union level, and place-based and multiscalar anticoal networks. The role of place-based resistance to the past, relational, expected, and imaginary concomitant forms of devaluation in lignite regions is also described as a key spatial barrier to the German coal phase-out. It will be shown that the emergence of a coal exit agreement, which represents a national fix to address not only existing market devaluation forces, but also a double legitimacy crisis for the government, was based on spatially uneven relations. The German case is relevant for the geographies of energy transitions for showing how multispatial strategies, the spatial organization of energy markets, and the territorial regulation of energy systems shape the possibilities for the devaluation needed to accelerate the pace of the fossil fuels phase-out.
A methodological interpretation of the circuits of capital
Authors: Ninos Giannis
Published: January 2023

This article investigates Marx’s method in the analysis of the circuits of capital, as it is carried out in Capital vol. 2, in an attempt to clarify some key aspects of the well-known problem in Marxist literature on the relation between the logical and the historical. The central question on this topic is whether Marx’s analysis is logical/structural or historical. The approach elaborated upon in this article extends beyond the one-sidedness of both views which deny any kind of correlation between logical and historical sequences and the views claiming that the articulation of Capital’s argument exposes a set of historical stages. We will argue that dialectic, namely, the method of ascent from the abstract to the concrete, represents, first and foremost, the inner articulation of the structure of a given self-developing object, and at the same time implicitly represents its historical development. Hence, taking Marx’s analysis of the circuits of capital as a case study, this article aspires to identify the fundamental movement of the systematic dialectic, which characterizes the entire Capital and explains the fundamental function of the relation between the logical and the historical.
Dust in the Wind: Ageism as Portrayed in Attitudes Toward Songs in Adulthood and Old Age
Authors: Gvili Racheli-Lital , Bodner Ehud
Published: January 2023

Ageism was found to be prevalent across various life domains, but not in the music domain. This study aimed to examine whether negative ageist attitudes toward older adults are associated with music preferences across life. Subjects ( n = 214, age range 30–92, M = 56.14, SD = 16.39) were exposed to old (1910–1946), intermediate (1979–1987), and new (2014–2018) songs, chosen by a focus group, rated each song, and completed scales assessing ageism and socio-demographics. Ageist attitudes were negatively associated with liking for old songs among young and middle-aged participants. Young participants demonstrated a negative link between ageist attitudes and liking for intermediate songs. No significant results were reported regarding new songs. This provides an initial indication that ageism may be connected to attitudes toward music. Future studies can examine effects of perceived “oldness” in music on participants’ ageist attitudes, and negative attitudes toward new and intermediate songs alongside with examining negative attitudes toward younger adults.
Letter to the Editor Response: Exploring COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Stakeholders in African American and Latinx Communities in the Deep South Through the Lens of the Health Belief Model
Authors: Bateman Lori B. , Hall Allyson G. , Anderson William A. , Cherrington Andrea L. , Helova Anna , Judd Suzanne , Kimberly Robert , Oates Gabriela R. , Osborne Tiffany , Ott Corilyn , Ryan Melissa , Strong Christian , Fouad Mona N.
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this submission to respond to a Letter to the Editor recently submitted regarding our manuscript, “Exploring COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Stakeholders in African American and Latinx Communities in the Deep South through the Lens of the Health Belief Model” published in the American Journal of Health Promotion in February, 2022. The manuscript reported on a study that had as its purpose to qualitatively explore perceptions related to COVID-19 vaccination intention among African American and Latinx participants and suggest potential intervention strategies.
High-cost drugs for rare diseases: their expenditure and value based on a regional area-based study
Authors: Manea Silvia , Visonà Dalla Pozza Laura , Minichiello Cinzia , Altieri Linda , Mazzucato Monica , Bonin Mauro , De Ambrosis Paola , Borgonovi Elio , Facchin Paola
Published: January 2023

Background: in the field of rare diseases (RDs) most of the European studies on budget impact analysis of drugs that have been conducted often lay on theoretical assumptions and focus only on Orphan drugs (ODs). Objectives: we aimed to estimate the budget impact of specific drugs for non-oncological RDs, both ODs and non-ODs, using real-world data about patients residing in Veneto Region (Italy) and to describe its expenditure structure and dynamics. Methods: a population-based multi-source observational study was conducted using data from Regional administrative databases; an ad-hoc drugs’ list specific for RDs including both ODs and non-ODs and classifying them by ATC codes has been created. Results: In 2019, the total expenditure for drugs specific for RDs was EUR 97.2 million (6.6% of the total Regional budget). The RD drug list included 58 ATC codes, of which 15 ATC had an annual budget impact over EUR 1 million (“blockbuster drugs”). The most expensive treatment was a non-OD drug (Coagulation factor VIII). The two most represented therapeutical areas were the metabolic and the hematological ones. Conclusions: Cost analyses on RD high-cost drugs expenditure should consider any specific RD drug, not only ODs. Expenditure dynamics for RD drugs are peculiar showing “blockbuster drugs”. Some therapeutical areas seem to be lacking in the drug research field.
Distributed deep learning enabled prediction on cutting tool wear and remaining useful life
Authors: Li Weidong , Zhang Xiaoyang , Wang Sheng , Lu Xin , Huang Zhiwen
Published: January 2023

To optimise the utilisation cost of cutting tools, it is imperative to develop an online system to efficiently and accurately predict tool wear conditions and remaining useful lives (RULs). With this aim, a novel system is proposed based on deep learning algorithms distributed over an edge-cloud computing architecture. The system is innovative in the following aspects: (i) a lightweight convolutional neural network-random forest (CNN-RF) model is designed to be executed on an edge device to assess tool wear conditions efficiently, which supports severe tool resilience and tool replacement when necessary; (ii) a convolutional neural network-long short-term memory (CNN-LSTM) model is designed to be executed on a cloud to process long-term signals to predict the RUL of the cutting tool, which supports fine-tuning tool parameters dynamically; (iii) a signal compression mechanism is developed to condense the signals of tooling conditions into 2D images so the signal volumes transferred over the network are minimised and signal security is improved. Experiments were performed in a real-world machining workshop for research methodology validation. It showed that the prediction accuracies for tool wear and RUL achieved 90.6% and 93.2%, respectively, and the volume of signals transferred over the network was reduced by 89.0%. The experiments and benchmarks with comparative algorithms demonstrated that the system and its methodology exhibited great potential to reinforce cutting tool optimisation for real-world applications.
Not only monkeypox infection: Keratoderma blenorrhagicum
Authors: Falcinelli Francesca , Rubegni Giovanni , Russo Filomena , De Piano Ernesto , Trovato Emanuele
Published: January 2023

We report the case of a 18-year-old boy affected by keratoderma blenorrhagicum mimicking monkeypox infection. PCR test in urine and urethral swab positive for chlamydia trachomatis and a biopsy performed on a lesion of the palm of the hand led to the correct diagnosis. The current monkeypox outbreak is an evolving situation, thus a better understanding of morphological, clinical and temporal features could help in prompt diagnosis of this infection.
Late presentation of HIV infection among adults in New Zealand from 2011 to 2020
Authors: Bateman Jerram P , Saxton Peter J W , de Gouw Ashleigh , Kolodziej Jacek , Priest Patricia C , McAllister Susan M
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Early diagnosis of HIV is essential for successful treatment and controlling HIV spread in a population. We examined the frequency and characteristics of adults diagnosed late with HIV in New Zealand from 2011–2020.

Methods

Routine surveillance data were analysed. Those previously diagnosed overseas or as part of immigration screening, or with missing CD4 count were excluded. ‘Late presentation’ was defined as a CD4 count <350 cells/μL or an AIDS-defining event. ‘Advanced HIV disease’ were those with a CD4 count <200 cells/μL or an AIDS-defining event. Relative risks were calculated using Poisson regression.

Results

Of 1145 people, 40.5% presented late; 24.9% had advanced HIV disease. Of the 464 late diagnoses, 65.5% occurred among men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM), 26.1% among heterosexuals, 8.4% among others. Heterosexual men and women were more likely to present late (55.3%) compared to MSM (35.6%). Amongst MSM, those who were older, of an ethnicity other than European, acquired HIV overseas, tested because symptomatic, or had their last negative test >2 years prior were more likely to present late and have advanced disease. Amongst heterosexuals, older age, tested because symptomatic, and Pacific ethnicity were associated with late presentation, and Māori, Pacific and Asian people were more likely to have advanced disease.

Conclusions

There continues to be a high proportion of people diagnosed late with HIV. Identifying barriers for testing, missed opportunities for screenings and other factors that delay HIV diagnosis could help develop effective strategies to reduce this burden of late presentation – particularly among heterosexual individuals, non-Europeans, and older people.
Depression in Diabetes—The Hidden Bane
Authors: Shirali Arun , M Yeshoda , Shirali Priyanka Arun , Sarah
Published: January 2023

Background

In India, a number of diabetes patients are rising, around 41 million Indians are suffering from diabetes. The depressed mood of an individual restricts the performance of that individual—socially, financially, and health-wise.

Purpose

Patients with diabetes having depression have shown worst diabetes outcomes in contrast to those suffering from type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) only, perhaps due to neglect at retaining a specific dietary regimen to control blood sugar levels, and/or not complying with regular exercise, consistent lifestyle, and treatment course. Our study aimed to analyze the presence of undiagnosed depression among adult diabetes patients and correlate complications and duration of T2DM with depression.

Methods

This cross-sectional observational study was conducted on diabetes cases visiting Out Patient Department (OPD) at Tertiary Care Hospital in South India. After obtaining ethics committee clearance, known diabetes adult patients on regular treatment fulfilling selection criteria, and willing to join in the study were randomly selected. Participants were interviewed, clinically examined and data pertaining to sociodemographic characteristics, comorbid conditions, clinical parameters etc., were collected. Depression was judged using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS17) questionnaire. The association of depression with glycemic control, duration, and comorbidities associated with T2DM was studied.

Results

Of 224 T2DM patients studied, the average age was 58 years, with a Male-to-Female ratio 2:1. In total, 49 (22%) had undiagnosed depression, and 175 (78%) were not having clinically obvious depression. In our study, depression was significantly associated with older age, occurrence of complications like retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and heart disease, and duration of diabetes ( p < .005).

Conclusion

Almost a fifth of diabetes individuals had undiagnosed depression. Proper diagnosis of depression among T2DM patients and intervention at right time can change the prognosis for patients, preventing further morbidities.