bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Approach to Decision‐Making Problem under Complex Pythagorean Fuzzy Information
Authors: Muhammad Shakoor , Ali Riaz , Abdullah Saleem , Okyere Samuel
Published: October 2022

In daily life, decision‐making (DM) problem is a complicated work related to uncertainties and vagueness. To overcome these imprecisions, many fuzzy sets and theories have been presented by different scholars. Probabilistic models are the communal models proposed for the management of uncertainties. On the other hand, if these uncertainties are not probabilistic in nature, then other models such as fuzzy linguistic and fuzzy logic are developed. Here, a new approach known as the complex Pythagorean fuzzy Maclaurin symmetric mean (CPFMSM) operator is used to handle these uncertainties in DM issues. This complex Pythagorean fuzzy set (CPFS) is a modified form of the Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS) and of the complex intuitionistic fuzzy set (CIFS). The aggregation operators have the ability to combine different sources of information. Therefore, an aggregation operator known as the MSM operator is utilized under the complex Pythagorean fuzzy (CPF) environment to extend the theory and applications of traditional MSM. For this purpose, we devised new operators known as CPFMSM and CPF dual Maclaurin symmetric mean (CPFDMSM) to aggregate CPF data. To evaluate an emergency program, the MAGDM approach is used, which is based on the newly introduced operators. Furthermore, the viability and applicability of the propounded method are certified by a detailed analysis with the other approaches researched in the past.
U-Model-Based Adaptive Sliding Mode Control Using a Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient
Authors: Lei Changyi , Zhu Quanmin
Published: October 2022

This paper presents a U-model-based adaptive sliding mode control (SMC) using a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) for uncertain nonlinear systems. The configuration of the proposed methodology consisted of a U-model framework and an SMC with a variable boundary layer. The U-model framework forms the outer feedback loop that adjusts the overall performance of the nonlinear system, while SMC serves as a robust dynamic inverter that cancels the nonlinearity of the original plant. Besides, to alleviate the chattering problem while maintaining the intrinsic advantages of SMC, a DDPG network is designed to adaptively tune the boundary and switching gain. From the control perspective, this controller combines the interpretability of the U-model and the robustness of the SMC. From the deep reinforcement learning (DRL) point of view, the DDPG calculates nearly optimal parameters for SMC based on current states and maximizes its favourable features while minimizing the unfavourable ones. The simulation results of the single-pendulum system are compared with those of a U-model-based SMC optimized by the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The comparison, as well as model visualization, demonstrates the superiority of the proposed methodology.
A POI Recommendation Algorithm Based on the Heterogeneous Graph Convolution Network
Authors: Li Yue
Published: October 2022

Point-of-interest (POI) recommendation is a type of recommendation task, which generates a list of places that users may be interested in. There is a complex heterogeneous graph structure between users and points of interest. The current recommendation algorithms are generally based on Euclidean space data, and the algorithms based on graph structure also generally use homogeneous graph convolution. To solve these problems, the author proposes a heterogeneous graph convolution network algorithm based on hierarchical subgraphs (HGCNR). By constructing user-centered subgraph layers and interest point-cantered subgraph layers, respectively, the author performs heterogeneous graph convolution on different subgraphs to obtain more effective user node information and interest point node information and form recommendation result. Experiments on two public data sets show that HGCNR can effectively improve the recommendation performance of interest points and achieve better recommendation results.
SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS AFFECTING INDIVIDUALS' LIFE SATISFACTION: DYNAMIC PANEL DATA ANALYSIS FOR SELECTED OECD COUNTRIES
Authors: YASIM Yavuz Kağan , DÜNDAR Özlem
Published: October 2022

Life satisfaction, which expresses the state of meeting the expectations of individuals as a result of reaching the goals they want in their lives, is the most important factor in ensuring the happiness of individuals, which is their ultimate goal in life. For this reason it is important to determine the socioeconomic factors that affect the life satisfaction of individuals. In the study, the effect of socioeconomic factors on life satisfaction of individuals in 25 member countries that are members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development was investigated with the System Generalized Method of Moments for the period 2013-2018. These countries and the period were determined according to the data set of the variables used in the analysis. The socioeconomic factors affecting life satisfaction of individuals in 25 countries that are members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development were determined within the scope of economic conditions, education and security. System Generalized Method of Moments result shows that mainly economic factors have an effect on life satisfaction. Accordingly, while unemployment and gini coefficient negatively affect individuals' life satisfaction; per capita gross domestic product and higher education graduates affect positively. Social expenditures and violent crimes have no effect on life satisfaction.
CHOICE OF PROFESSION AS PART OF CAREER PLANNING AND FACTORS AFFECTING UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT PREFERENCE: A QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
Authors: DUMAN Orhan , ERCAN Sertaç
Published: October 2022

The factors influencing the choice of profession, one of the stages of career planning, are scrutinized in this study. The study's primary purpose is to define the factors affecting the choice of profession and contribute to universities' promotion and marketing activities. Within the scope of the research, focus group interviews were performed with undergraduate students, and the data acquired were analyzed using the grounded theory. According to the analysis results, the factors affecting the choice of a profession were reported by reducing to two themes and five categories. Accordingly, environmental factors, marketing activities, social media, obligations, and personal factors were determined as the main factors affecting the choice of profession.

In the light of the findings, valuable suggestions have been put forward for universities as part of institutions and academicians working on choice of profession, and university department preferences, which is a decisive stage of career choice. In this day and age, where individual behaviors and social understandings are constantly altering/transforming, the fact that the factors affecting the choice of a profession also change daily shows that studies and research on this subject should be continually updated. This study is considered to make a genuine contribution to the literature as one of the current research.
The Kusama Retrospective and the Future of The Tel Aviv Museum of Art
Authors: Katz Maya Balakirsky
Published: October 2022

Following two years of heavy COVID restrictions, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art opened the “first-ever retrospective in Israel” of the Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Beyond the pioneering artist that is the subject of the retrospective and what it says about the Israeli public that is drawn to her work, the exhibition also invites analysis into the restaging of art exhibitions originating in another country, in this case a German museum, with all the implications that such a venture raises in Israel. In breaking down the curatorial modus operandi of restaging a borrowed exhibition designed by the Gropius Bau Museum in Berlin in Tel Aviv, this paper explores the museological craft of restaging exhibitions. In its original conception, the Gropius Bau focused on Kusama’s art “from a European and particularly from a German perspective,” highlighting Kusama’s “influence” on the European art scene during the time she spent in Germany in the late 1960s. The Tel Aviv Museum made significant changes to this scholarly conceptual core, perhaps sensitive to any claim that positioned Berlin as a cosmopolitan city after the Holocaust, by opting for an “affective” visitor experience. The site-specific textuality of this endeavor foregrounds the Tel Aviv Museum’s performance of itself in its twin roles in the nation’s history and its internationalization of the country’s cultural capital. I suggest that the Kusama exhibition reflects a new direction for the broader practices of art curatorship in the oldest art museum in the country.
Buying and Selling of Vote in Local Body Elections: A Case Study of Telangana
Authors: Joseph Vanishree , Bhanja Anjan K.
Published: October 2022

This research is an in-depth study on the influence of money in local body elections in India, particularly Gram Panchayat, which is the lowest tier of local governance, and consequences thereof. The age of the voters, genders and their education plays a significant factor in stigmatising the vote-buying behaviour. Women, youths and educated have more stigma towards vote buying. Vote buying takes different forms in different places and is more intense in some places than others. The degree to which democracy is afflicted by these ills, and the particular kind of damage inflicted, thus vary. Vote-buying, should also be noted, has consequences that extend beyond the political realm. Certain kinds of vote buying affect the economy by driving up land prices and concentrating landownership which may have long-term political implications. Most of the cases of the incidence of money is found in the places where real estate business is booming with huge population. The competition is more in the Panchayats where there is more income and grants available in these bodies.
Death Anxiety and Interment Stress Family Interventions for Filipino Older Adults
Authors: Laguilles-Villafuerte Salvacion
Published: October 2022

The overall intent of this research is to determine the preferred death anxiety and interment stress family interventions for Filipino older adults. 214 Filipino respondents (18–75 years old) participated in this conjoint analysis study. Results showed that cognitive state (23.272%) is most important and spiritual state (17.256%) as least important family intervention. Part-worth of the attributes shows medical routines and procedures (.342) as most preferred for physical state; mental health awareness (.266) for cognitive state; livelihood trainings (.051) for social state; family therapy (.022) for psychological state; and church activities (.017) for spiritual state. Spiritual state, age, and number of children have marked associations. Respondents aged 60–75 with a higher number of children in the family, cope with death anxiety and interment stress through spirituality. Significant findings of this study will greatly contribute to the knowledge base of geriatric mental health care; including caregivers and family members of older adults.
Professor Bajram Preza (1923–2007), a leading academic figure in the Albanian medicine
Authors: Vyshka Gentian , Mana Tedi
Published: October 2022

Professor Bajram Preza was a career neurologist with a strong background in research both in neurology and psychiatry. After a period of study in Sarajevo in the immediate post-WWII period, he completed his studies in medicine and a fellowship in neuropsychiatry in Nizhny Novgorod (formerly Gorky). A highly prolific author, he holds the laurels of the first medical dissertation sustained in the University of Tirana (1958) as well as for publishing the first student’s textbook on medicine (Semiotics of nervous diseases, 1964) in Albania. He led the Clinic of Neurology in Tirana for more than three decades, while relentlessly lecturing, publishing and editing a diversity of medical papers, translations and original works that have shaped the professional education of entire generations of future Albanian physicians.
Improved methodology for assessment of communication protocols for distributed road traffic simulation
Authors: Potuzak Tomas
Published: October 2022

A computer simulation of road traffic is a commonly used tool, which can help to manage constantly intensifying road traffic. It can help to analyze behavior of existing road traffic networks or to predict the behavior of new designed road traffic structures. There are several existing simulators designed or adapted to run in a distributed computing environment in order to achieve a faster execution. In this environment, the inter-process communication ensured by a high-level communication protocol is one of the main bottlenecks limiting the speed of the entire computation. Various high-level communication protocols can have various efficiency, applicability, and scalability. This paper describes an improved methodology for testing and assessment of high-level communication protocols for micro-scale (or microscopic) distributed road traffic simulations. The methodology investigates the dependencies of the communication protocols’ performance on various features of the simulation and enables to easily calculate score for each of the tested protocols. Using the scores, the tested protocols can be directly compared. This can be useful when designing or improving a distributed road traffic simulation as the best protocol can be used in this simulation to improve its performance (e.g., its speedup or communication time). The improved version of the methodology is an evolution of its original version. It newly incorporates the assessment of the error introduced into the simulation by lossy communication protocols and reduces overall number of performed tests. The improved methodology was tested using a case study assessing several communication protocols of our own design.
What is distinctive of political normativity? From domain view to role view
Authors: Erman Eva , Möller Niklas
Published: October 2022

In the last couple of years, increased attention has been directed at the question of whether there is such a thing as a distinctively political normativity. With few exceptions, this question has so far only been explored by political realists. However, the discussion about a distinctively political normativity raises methodological and meta-theoretical questions of general importance for political theory. Although the terminology varies, it is a widely distributed phenomenon within political theory to rely on a normative source which is said to be political rather than moral, or at least foremost political. In light of this concern, the present paper moves beyond political realism in the attempt to explore alternative ways of understanding distinctively political normativity, in a way which may be useful for political theorists. More specifically, we investigate two candidate views, here labelled the “domain view” and the “role view,” respectively. The former traces distinctness to the “domain,” that is, to the circumstances of politics. This view has gained a lot of support in the literature in recent years. The latter traces distinctness to “role,” that is, the role-specific demands that normative-political principles make. Our twofold claim in this paper is that the domain view is problematic but that the role view is promising.
Embeddedness in internationalization: Knowledge map and research agenda proposal
Authors: Rocha Rúben , Marques Carla S E , Galvão Anderson R
Published: October 2022

This study conducted a bibliometric review of the literature on the importance of embeddedness in internationalization processes in order to map the research on this topic, identify its main trends, and propose future lines of investigation. The review covered articles published in academic journals listed in the Web of Science database. The analysis of the data obtained relied on the functions offered by IRaMuTeQ software. The results confirm internationalization is important in current business contexts in terms of the development of companies’ activities and these firms’ local relationship networks. Four clusters of articles were identified as major trends in the literature: international strategic management, networking through international joint ventures, international entrepreneurship, and trade and international relations. The findings contribute to mapping the existing literature on the importance of embeddedness to the development of companies’ international activities, as well as identifying potential new lines of investigation.
Numerical study of boundary stresses on Jeffery-Hamel flow subject to Soret/Dufour effects
Authors: Asghar Zaheer , Saif Rai Sajjad , Ghaffari Abu Zar
Published: October 2022

We have mathematically modeled the problem of convective Jeffery-Hamel flow in the presence of thermo-diffusion and diffusion-thermo effects. The flow is considered to be the steady, incompressible and unidirectional by assuming the velocity only in radial direction. We have also modeled the boundary conditions representing the boundary stresses and assumed that these stresses apply only radially. Then we analyzed the effects of these stresses on the problem. The boundary stresses are defined through traction boundary conditions which are of Robin type. The flow is assumed in the domain [[Formula: see text]] and the constant flow rate condition is applied instead of taking symmetry of the channel. The governing equations are nonlinear coupled partial differential equations. They become a system of nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations by adopting suitable transformations. Therefore, they are handled numerically. For this purpose, we have developed a scheme using shooting method to solve nonlinear coupled differential equations representing the flow problem and shown the solution procedure via a flow chart. In order to obtain the numerical results, we have taken different values of parameters. Since we have considered the problem of Newtonian fluid, therefore, we considered the values [Formula: see text] for air, carbon disulfide and water respectively at 25°C. Whereas the values of Schmidt number are considered as [Formula: see text] for hydrogen, water vapor, and ammonia respectively at 25°C. The numerical solution is validated by comparing the results with those published in literature. The numerical results of present work show that there occurs no-slip for wedge angle of [Formula: see text] by fixing the other parameters whereas slip is achieved in some other situations. It is noticed that the flow reversal occurs for convergent as well as divergent flow. All boundary layers are affected greatly due to presence of the boundary stresses and the hydrodynamic boundary layer that disappears in the absence of boundary stresses. The freedom in constraint of channel symmetry leads to the occurrence of symmetric as well as asymmetric flow. An interesting theoretical result of opposite behaviors of temperature and concentration profiles for convergent and divergent flows is observed in case of variation of all of the governing parameters. It is also noticed that the simultaneous increase of Soret number and decrease of Dufour number results in occurrence of opposite behavior of temperature and concentration profiles for divergent flow. However, it results in similar behavior of these profiles. The results show that the boundary layer completely disappears in the absence of boundary stresses.
What Cultivates a Path of Disruptive Innovation within Semiconductor Latecomers? An Exploratory Case Study of HiSilicon
Authors: Qing Lingli , Chun Dongphil , Xiong Peng
Published: October 2022

Disruptive innovation is an effective way for market latecomers to draw a level with earlier developers. Yet, little is known about how a path of disruptive innovation for semiconductor latecomers can be cultivated. We aim to fill this gap in knowledge with the help of the experience of China’s local fabless semiconductor firm, HiSilicon, by using a single case qualitative method for vertical research. The results show that the ‘five-steps-in-one’ S-M-A-R-T framework is an effective path for semiconductor latecomers to cultivate disruptive innovation of the dynamic process. It can help existing semiconductor latecomers to break through their lagging dilemma. Among them, strategic direction (S) is a guideline, market identification (M) is a prerequisite, ability building (A) is a foundation, R&D for independent technology (R) is a key, and timing of market entry (T) is a safeguard. Our case study ‘HiSilicon’ happened to be in this situation; it took 15 years to counterattack from a niche market to the mainstream market, and finally accomplished disruptive innovation. Our findings contribute to enriching and expanding the guidance for semiconductor latecomers in different countries by identifying how to foster their disruptive innovation to catch up successfully.
Effects of Servant Leadership Style on Hindrance Stressors, Burnout, Job Satisfaction, Turnover Intentions, and Individual Performance in a Nursing Unit
Authors: Westbrook Kevin W. , Nicol Duncan , Nicol Julie K. , Orr Denise Thornton
Published: October 2022

Today’s healthcare organizations face burgeoning pressures to hire and retain nurses who face considerable workplace stress. Servant leadership behaviours are effective to mitigate workplace stressors impacting nurse burnout, job satisfaction, turnover intentions and performance. Based on a survey of 248 nursing professionals working in inpatient and outpatient care facilities, the results of this study confirm the direct buffering effects of servant leadership on hindrance stressors. Servant leadership decreases nurse burnout while increasing job satisfaction. Third, nurse burnout reduces job satisfaction, yet has no direct impact on turnover intentions or individual performance. Next, job satisfaction has a direct positive impact on individual performance and a direct negative impact on turnover intentions. The model also confirms that hindrance stressors partially mediate the relationship between servant leadership and burnout while burnout is a partial mediator between servant leadership and job satisfaction. Job satisfaction is a full mediator between servant leadership and performance and turnover intentions. Furthermore, the results show serial mediation involving hindrance stressors, burnout and job satisfaction as a link between servant leadership and performance and turnover. Finally, we provide a managerial discussion supporting servant leadership behaviours to impact overall working conditions for nurses.
Risankizumab-rzaa: A New Therapeutic Option for the Treatment of Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Choi David , Sheridan Hilary , Bhat Shubha
Published: October 2022

Objective:

To review the pharmacologic and clinical profile of risankizumab-rzaa in the treatment of Crohn’s disease (CD).

Data Sources:

A PubMed search was performed from inception to August 2022 using keywords risankizumab, risankizumab-rzaa, interleukin-23 inhibitor, and Crohn’s disease. Information was obtained from package inserts as well as published abstracts.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Phase 2 and 3 studies plus relevant literature on risankizumab-rzaa pharmacologic and clinical profile were reviewed.

Data Synthesis:

Risankizumab-rzaa approval was based on ADVANCE, MOTIVATE, and FORTIFY. In these 3 phase 3 studies involving patients with moderate to severe CD, risankizumab-rzaa, when compared with placebo, resulted in clinical remission and endoscopic response in a significantly higher proportion of patients in both the induction and maintenance phase. In addition, risankizumab-rzaa met the secondary endpoints of clinical response, endoscopic improvement, corticosteroid-free remission, and mucosal healing. Common adverse events noted include nasopharyngitis, arthralgia, headache, abdominal pain, and nausea.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

Risankizumab-rzaa is the first selective IL-23 inhibitor approved for CD and provides an additional therapeutic option for patients, particularly those who have been previously treated with other advanced inflammatory bowel disease therapies. Additional studies are required to determine how to best position risankizumab-rzaa in both bio-naïve and bio-experienced patients with CD.

Conclusions:

Risankizumab-rzaa is the most recent therapeutic advance for CD. It has a selective mechanism of action with a similar safety profile comparable with other currently approved advanced therapies.
Robust cooperative multiple flexible-joint arms control using the q-Bernstein-Schurer operators as the uncertainty approximator: A singular perturbation approach
Authors: Izadbakhsh Alireza , Nazari Ali Jamali , Talaei Hamidreza
Published: October 2022

The position-force tracking issue of an object being moved by collaborative Multiple Flexible-Joint arms, facing dynamic uncertainties, model nonlinearities, and unknown perturbations is studied in this paper. Toward this end, an adaptive control scheme applying the function approximation technique is suggested, enabling the object to track the reference trajectory. This capability arises from the universal approximation property of the FAT-based approaches. Herein, the q-Bernstein-Schurer operators are exploited to disturbances/uncertain dynamic approximations. Since the parameters of the system are not exactly recognized, adaptive rules are suggested for tuning the coefficients of the operator. The Lyapunov stability analysis guarantees uniformly ultimately bounded stability of all the error signals. Two Flexible-Joint manipulators transporting a rigid object are employed to validate the theoretical achievements. The state-of-the-art Chebyshev Neural Network approximator is also used to compare the suggested methodology. The outcomes exhibit the usefulness of the presented approach, handling the system even in the incidence of uncertainties and disturbances needless to the system’s state feedback for function approximation with a low computational burden.
Emotion in multivarietal family language policy in Flanders
Authors: Naborn Lars , Van De Mieroop Dorien , Zenner Eline
Published: October 2022

Aims:

This study on Belgian Dutch caregivers aims to complement research on multilingual family language planning with a multivarietal perspective. As transitions between varieties are often more gradual, it is revealing to study which emotions surface in caregivers’ reflection on these varieties. The Belgian Dutch case is selected given its historically highly emotional macro-level language debate, its exoglossic norm and its transition from diglossia to diaglossia.

Methodology:

The aim is pursued through mixed methodology, combining variationist analysis with a bottom-up discourse analytic approach.

Data and analysis:

We juxtapose data from two Belgian Dutch families. For each family, a qualitative analysis identifies the expressions of (the lack of) emotions found in metalinguistic interviews on varieties of Dutch with the caregivers (80’). This information is triangulated with a quantitative analysis of the caregivers’ use of standard and nonstandard pronouns of address in self-recorded dinner table conversations (260’; N = 1004).

Findings:

Results reveal caregivers’ attempts to manage conflicting emotions related to the Flemish language situation, and how they lead to (dis)harmony in the family.

Originality:

This paper contributes to our understanding of emotions in family language policy (FLP) in its focus on a multivarietal context and in its mixed methodology.

Implications:

Our findings resonate with research on multilingual FLP’s, which we tie to caregivers’ diglossic description of the diaglossic Flemish context. The shifting relationship between emotions expressed in the interviews and the language choices made in practice, overall support the value of mixed methods FLP research.
The prevalence of intimate partner violence among Iranian pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Raziani Yosra , Hasheminasab Leila , Gheshlagh Reza Ghanei , Dalvand Pegah , Baghi Vajiheh , Aslani Marzieh
Published: October 2022

Background:

Intimate partner violence against pregnant women is an important public health concern and human rights issue. According to the various findings of previous studies, this study was conducted to assess the pooled prevalence of intimate partner violence against Iranian women.

Methods:

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, a literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MagIran, and Scientific Information Database without a time limit. Heterogeneity was assessed by Cochrane Q test statistics and the I2 test, and the results were incorporated into a random effects model to estimate the prevalence of intimate partner violence. Data analysis was performed using R software version 4.3.2.

Results:

The overall prevalence of intimate partner violence was reported to be 51.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 45.0–58.1), and the prevalence rate of physical, sexual, and psychological intimate partner violence was 18.0% (95% CI 15.1–20.9), 22.1% (95% CI 17.7–26.60) and 43.2% (95% CI 36.6–49.8), respectively. The lowest level of physical, sexual, and emotional intimate partner violence rate was observed in district 1 of Iran (includes Tehran, the capital of Iran and the surrounding provinces). The rate of physical and sexual intimate partner violence prevalence decreased with the increased mean age of the husband ( P=0.005) and the mean age of the wife ( P=0.035), respectively.

Conclusions:

Studies included in this review report that more than half of Iranian women experience violence during pregnancy. In order to prevent adverse maternal and neonatal consequences, it is necessary to identify these women and introduce them to support centres.
Percutaneous Puncture Embolization for Recurrent Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation After Failed Initial Treatment: A Case Report
Authors: Chen Lumin , Liu Yuyu , Chen Renbiao
Published: October 2022

Background

Transcatheter embolization is a commonly used minimally invasive technique in the treatment of pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM) with a high probability of post-operative recurrence, and some recurrent cases of PAVM cannot be treated via pulmonary arterial re-embolization. Here, we report the first case, to our knowledge, a 55-year-old female undergoing percutaneous direct puncture embolization for recurrent PAVM with good short-term efficacy.

Case Presentation

The patient was a 55-year-old female presenting to the emergency department of our hospital with acute exacerbation of chest tightness and shortness of breath for 2 hours. The patient was diagnosed with PAVM and undergone embolization half a year ago. DSA-guided embolization was performed through percutaneous puncture approach. After embolization with four spring coils, the blood flow to the PAVMs was stopped and the surgery completed. The patient reported improvement of chest tightness and shortness of breath and was discharged from the hospital 3 days later.

Conclusion

Our case was unique as a portion of the PAVMs was closely attached to the chest wall and PVP was slightly increased, which made percutaneous puncture embolization possible. Our case can be helpful in the treatment of recurrent PAVM in patients who cannot undergo re-embolization through pulmonary artery.
Family Structure and Delinquency in the English-Speaking Caribbean: The Moderating Role of Parental Attachment, Supervision, and Commitment to Negative Peers
Authors: Freemon Kayla , Herrera Veronica M. , Cheon Hyunjung , Katz Charles M.
Published: October 2022

Growing up in a household without two parents present is an established risk factor for youth delinquency. However, much of the research on family structure and delinquency derives from U.S. samples, limiting applicability to the developing world. The present study explores the role of traditional and non-traditional family structures on self-reported delinquency in eight English-speaking Caribbean nations. We further examine the moderating role of family processes (parental attachment and parental supervision) and commitment to negative peers on this relationship. We find that youth from intact nuclear families, with a mother and father present, engage in less delinquency than youth from intact blended, single-parent, or no-parent households. Further, family structure moderated the relationship between delinquency, parental attachment, and commitment to negative peers. Theoretical and research implications are discussed.
Midfoot Joint Arthrodesis Using Compression Plate With Lag Screw Augmenting With Highly Porous β-Tricalcium Phosphate and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate
Authors: Lee Wonyong , MacDonald Justin , Prat Dan , Chao Wen , Farber Daniel C. , Wapner Keith L.
Published: October 2022

Background

There is still a controversy regarding the most optimal fixation instruments and bone graft materials for midfoot joint arthrodesis. We present the results of midfoot joint arthrodesis using compression plate with lag screw augmenting with highly porous β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) and bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC).

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing midfoot joint arthrodesis using compression plate with lag screw augmenting with highly porous β-TCP and BMAC from January 2014 to May 2019. The radiographic bony union rate was investigated. Postoperative complications and reoperations were also reviewed. A total of 36 patients (37 feet) including 75 joints were available in this study.

Results

A high union rate was achieved as of 97.3% in 73 of 75 joints. Nonunion occurred in 2 patients including 2 joints. Other than nonunion, there were no major complications such as deep infection. Minor complications (5 of 75 joints, 6.7%) included hardware irritations. Reoperations were required in 1 patient for revision of arthrodesis and symptomatic hardware removal was performed in all 5 hardware irritation cases.

Conclusion

Based on our results, the fixation construct of compression plate with lag screw augmenting with highly porous β-TCP and BMAC is safe and effective for midfoot joint arthrodesis with an excellent union rate and a low complication rate.

Level of Evidence:

IV, retrospective case series
Effect of Fibular Malrotation on Tibiotalar Joint Contact Mechanics in a Weber B Ankle Fracture Model
Authors: Ayala Alfonso E. , Khwaja Ansab , Goodison Brianna C. , Smith Simeon L. , Kim Samuel Y. , Irwin Jared T. , Latt L. Daniel
Published: October 2022

Background

In minimally displaced Weber B ankle fractures, the distal fibular fracture fragment can be externally rotated. This malrotation is difficult to detect on radiographs and, when left malreduced through nonoperative treatment, may contribute to altered joint mechanics, predisposing to posttraumatic osteoarthritis. This study evaluates the effects of fibular malrotation on tibiotalar joint contact mechanics.

Methods

Six cadaveric ankles were tested using a materials testing system (MTS) machine. A tibiotalar joint sensor recorded contact area and pressure. Samples were tested in the intact, neutrally rotated, and malrotated state. Each trial applied a 686N axial load and a 147N Achilles tendon load in neutral position, 15° dorsiflexion, and 15° plantarflexion.

Results

In the comparison of malrotated to intact ankles, peak contact pressure was found to be significantly greater at neutral flexion (intact 5.56 MPa ± 1.39, malrotated 7.21 MPa ± 1.07, P = .03), not significantly different in dorsiflexion, and significantly decreased in plantarflexion (intact 11.2 MPa ± 3.04, malrotated 9.01 MPa ± 1.84, P = .01). Significant differences in contact area were not found between conditions.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that fibular malrotation contributes to significant alterations in tibiotalar joint contact pressures, which may contribute to the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. When malrotation of the fibula is suspected on plain radiographs, a computer tomography (CT) scan should be obtained to evaluate its extent and further consideration should be given to surgical treatment.

Levels of Evidence:

Level V: Bench testing
Long-term impact of fluoroquinolone-sparing strategies for empirical treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis among ambulatory patients
Authors: Kon Shelley , Meslovich Dina , Valdez Carolyn , Jenkins Timothy C. , Shihadeh Katherine , Franco-Paredes Carlos , Price Connie S.
Published: October 2022

Background:

Acute uncomplicated cystitis is common among outpatients and frequently leads to antibiotic prescriptions, making urinary tract infections (UTIs) an important area for antimicrobial stewardship initiatives. Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines promote alternative agents in place of fluoroquinolones for acute uncomplicated cystitis. Despite IDSA guidance, adherence to the guideline remains low in the United States (US). Several studies have described interventions to improve guideline-concordant prescribing for UTIs. However, the long-term sustainability and impact of fluoroquinolone (FLQ)-sparing strategies on community antimicrobial resistance and treatment outcomes are unknown. The objectives of this study were to characterize current antibiotic prescribing patterns, treatment failures and Escherichia coli resistance rates in a setting which instituted FLQ sparing strategies for UTIs in 2007.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort study of women aged ⩾ 18 diagnosed with acute uncomplicated cystitis based on International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes were included. Data were abstracted for ambulatory visits over a 6-month period, January 2018 to June 2018, at a large urban health care system. Treatment decisions were made by individual providers, and data were analyzed retrospectively. Nitrofurantoin (NFT) resistance was obtained from the institutional antibiogram and patient-level data. Treatment failure was defined as the need for a different antibiotic for UTI within 28 days of the original prescription.

Results:

NFT was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic ( n = 386, 71.6%) of empiric antibiotic prescriptions for UTIs. FLQs comprised 4.6% of all antibiotic prescriptions ( n = 25). Treatment failure rate was 2.3% in patients treated with NFT. Urine culture was ordered for only 26.8% of patients. Among the small group of patients with cultures ordered, E. coli remained 98.5% susceptible to NFT.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to report significantly low rates (4.6%) of FLQ prescribing for acute uncomplicated cystitis. Treatment failure rate was low with empiric NFT. Increased NFT resistance among E. coli was not observed at the institution or among the subset of patients with E. coli positive urine cultures. These findings support current IDSA treatment guidance for uncomplicated cystitis.
Real-world experience with 240 mg of galcanezumab for the preventive treatment of cluster headache
Authors: Mo Heejung , Kim Byung-Kun , Moon Heui-Soo , Cho Soo-Jin
Published: October 2022

Background

Galcanezumab of 300 mg monthly is the FDA approved preventive medication for cluster headache (CH) during the cluster period. Compared to the 120 mg galcanezumab syringe for the treatment of migraines, the 100 mg syringe for CH has globally not been as widely available. The aim of our study was to investigate the preventive efficacy and tolerability of two 120 mg galcanezumab doses for episodic CH in clinical practices.

Methods

We evaluated patients with CH who received at least 1 dose of 240 mg (2 prefilled syringe of 120 mg) of galcanezumab in the 3 university hospitals from February 2020 to September 2021. In the patients with episodic CH, the efficacy and safety data of galcanezumab were analyzed regarding to the presence of the conventional preventive therapy at the timing of therapy of galcanezumab. The data of other subtypes of CH were separately described.

Results

In 47 patients with episodic CH, galcanezumab was started median 18 days after the onset of current bout (range 1–62 days) and 4 patients (10.8%) received second dose of galcanezumab. The median time to the first occurrence of 100% reduction from baseline in CH attacks per week after galcanezumab therapy was 17 days (25% to 75% quartile range: 5.0 ~ 29.5) in all patients with episodic CH, 15.5 days (3.8 ~ 22.1) in 36 patients with galcanezumab therapy add-on conventional preventive therapy, 21.0 days (12.0 ~ 31.5) in 11 patients started galcanezumab as initial preventive therapy. Among 33 patients with headache diary, the proportion of patients with 50% or more reduction in weekly CH attacks at week 3 from baseline were 78.8%. There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients with a reduction of at least 50% in weekly frequency of CH attacks at week 3 between 24 patients received galcanezumab therapy add-on conventional preventive therapy and 9 patient who received initial galcanezumab therapy. (83.3%, vs 66.7%, p = 0.36). There were no significant differences in proportion of “very much better or “much better” between 36 patients received galcanezumab therapy add-on conventional preventive therapy and 11 patient who received initial GT (86.1%, vs 63.6%, p = 0.18).

Conclusion

One 240 mg dose of galcanezumab with/without conventional therapy for the prevention of CH is considered effective and safe in clinical practices, as seen in the clinical trial of galcanezumab.
OsWHY1 Interacts with OsTRX z and is Essential for Early Chloroplast Development in Rice
Authors: Qiu Zhennan , Chen Dongdong , Teng Linhong , Guan Peiyan , Yu Guoping , Zhang Peiliang , Song Jian , Zeng Qiangcheng , Zhu Li
Published: October 2022

WHIRLY (WHY) family proteins, a small family of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) binding proteins, are widely found in plants and have multiple functions to regulate plant growth and development. However, WHY in rice has received less attention. In this study, we continued our previous study on OsTRX z that is important for chloroplast development. OsTRX z was discovered to interact with OsWHY1, which was confirmed using yeast two-hybrid, pull-down, and BiFC assays. Subsequently, the oswhy1 mutants were obtained by CRISPR/Cas9, which exhibited an albino phenotype and died after the three-leaf stage. Consistent with this albino phenotype, low amounts of Chl a, Chl b, and Car were detected in the oswhy1-1 mutant. Moreover, the oswhy1-1 mutant had chloroplasts with disrupted architecture and no stacked grana and thylakoid membranes. Subcellular localization showed that the OsWHY1-GFP fusion protein was targeted to the chloroplast. What’s more, OsWHY1 was found to be preferentially expressed in young leaves and was involved in chloroplast RNA editing and splicing. Mutation of OsWHY1 significantly affected the expression of chloroplast and ribosome development-related and chlorophyll synthesis-related genes. In conclusion, OsWHY1 contributes to early chloroplast development and normal seedling survival in rice. These results will further elucidate the molecular mechanism of chloroplast development and expand our understanding of WHY1 functions.
Serous cystadenocarcinoma of the testis: case report of a rare entity
Authors: Fadli Mohammed El , Benhima Nada , Essâdi Ismail , Belbaraka Rhizlane
Published: October 2022

Background

Germ cell tumors account for more than 95% of testicular cancers followed by sex-cord stromal tumors. The occurrence of serous cystadenocarcinoma in testicular and paratesticular tissue is very rare with distinct clinical behavior.

Case presentation

Herein, we report the case of a 39-year-old man who presented with right testicular swelling. Anatomopathological examination of the right orchiectomy revealed a high-grade paratesticular serous cystadenocarcinoma. Long-term follow-up with close monitoring was adopted in the absence of concomitant metastasis. The patient was disease-free at two years post-surgery.

Conclusion

Owing to its scarcity, there are no standardized guidelines for optimal management of this histological entity. Sharing case reports provide valuable information to support clinical decisions.
Prevalence of co-infection and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidian parasites in two rehabilitation facilities in Iran: implications for the conservation of captive raptors
Authors: Nourani Leila , Aliabadian Mansour , Mirshamsi Omid , Dinparast Djadid Navid
Published: October 2022

Background

Various haemosporidian parasites infect raptors, especially captive hosts who may be more exposed. Diagnosis of threatening factors such as infectious diseases indirectly has a significant role in protecting endangered or threatened species that may boost the mortality or extinction resulting from declined reproduction. Few investigations have been performed in captive hosts to detect the prevalence of haemosporidian parasites and define genetic diversity in west Asia. For the first time, the current study was designed to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of haemosporidian parasites in captive raptors by molecular methods in two rehabilitation facilities in North and North-east Iran and to define phylogenetic relationships of detected lineages circulating in raptors.

Results

Molecular characterization of the haemosporidian parasite was accomplished by PCR-based method and DNA sequencing in 62 captive raptors. The overall prevalence was ~ 36% with higher infection of Haemoproteus spp. than Leucocytozoon spp. Plasmodium infection was not detected in any host. Results showed that 22 individuals (of 10 species) were infected with unique lineages. Genus Haemoproteus was detected in 26.66% of examined individuals (of eight species) and Leucocytozoon was found in 10% of individuals (of four species). The molecular analysis could detect ten lineages (nine Haemoproteus spp. and one Leucocytozoon spp.) which were categorizes as new and six lineages which have been previously detected in the other investigations.

Conclusions

The Bayesian phylogenetic analysis derived from obtained data in the present study and published lineages in previous investigations indicated the probable host specificity of Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon parasites in several sub-clades at hosts’ order and genus level. As monitoring the parasite loads of captive birds when admitted reduce the risk of infecting hosts in captivity at those locations, we designed this study to determine infection prevalence and genetic diversity of blood parasites in raptors examined in Iran. These results allow mapping of haemosporidian distribution and shed light on the depth of their diversity in Iran to protect species by identification of risk in rehabilitation facilities.