bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape positioning of Neolithic mustatil stone structures along the margins of the Nefud Desert, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hatton Amy , Breeze Paul S , Guagnin Maria , al-Jibrin Faisal , Alsharekh Abdullah M , Petraglia Michael , Groucutt Huw S
Published: September 2024

Monumental rectangular stone structures called mustatils are an important emerging feature of the Holocene archaeological record of northwestern Arabia. To date, few have been excavated, with available radiocarbon dates suggesting an age range of ca. 5400–4200 BC. Here we present a rigorous spatial analysis to identify the patterning and landscape context of 169 mustatils in the southern and western margins of the Nefud Desert. This included: (1) a systematic survey of satellite imagery to identify mustatils; (2) viewshed analysis to examine location and landscape visibility; (3) a point process model to understand how diverse environmental and landscape variables affect mustatil locations; (4) mark correlation function to assess spatial patterning of mustatils based on their size. Results indicate that mustatil locations are determined most by proximity to water (likely locations of enhanced surface water occurrence under the enhanced humidity of the Mid-Holocene), on east facing slopes, close to rocky areas, at elevations between 880 and 950 masl, and on or near topographic ridges (positive topographic position index). Viewshed analysis showed that mustatils are preferentially located in areas that have good views, but not the best that are available, indicating complex landscape positioning that balances a range of topographic and behavioural factors. Using a rank permutation method with size (length) of mustatils as a proxy for labour mobilization we show that mustatils within clusters are not arranged hierarchically based on size, and were likely built by non-stratified groups of people. Our analyses show that people were choosing multiple factors when deciding where to build mustatils, and that the distribution of mustatils may relate to different groups of people resulting in the construction of complex ritual landscapes. As one of the earliest examples of large-scale monumental stone structure construction in global prehistory, understanding mustatils can enlighten us on human-environment interaction during the Neolithic.
Sedimentological and geochemical proxies reveal changes in the South Atlantic Convergence Zone in Southeast South America during the Late-Holocene
Authors: de Mahiques Michel Michaelovitch , Nagai Renata Hanae , Rodrigues Ventura Irys Martins , y Goya Samara Cazzoli
Published: September 2024

Today, the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (SACZ), a convective band that extends across central Brazil to the western South Atlantic Ocean, modulates Southern Hemisphere summer rainfall in Southeastern Brazil. During the Holocene, however, the role of the SACZ over the rainfall regime in this part of South America is still under debate. This study aims to provide new insights into the SACZ Late-Holocene variability through analysis of the geochemical (XRF-based bulk sediment Metal/Metal ratios) and sedimentological (grain size and end-member modeling) variations along four cores retrieved in a coastal area (24–49 m water depth) located in the core of modern SACZ. Our records show an increase in Ti/Ca ratios, suggesting increased rainfall and that the terrigenous input to the Brazilian southeastern inner shelf changed in the Late-Holocene (last 4200 years). These changes are also followed by a decrease in the K/Ti ratio, indicative of an increase in chemical weathering in the sediment source, and an increase in the Mn/Ti, suggesting an increase in oxidation. Additionally, decadal-scale variability with periodicities of 25 and 55 years obtained by a time-series (Redfit) analysis highlights a potential role of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, respectively, as drivers of the SACZ variability over the last 4200 years.
Ergot alkaloid consumption alters serotonin receptor-induced vasoactivity in ovine umbilical vasculature
Authors: Klotz James L , Britt Jessica L , Greene Maslyn A , Kent-Dennis Coral , Duckett Susan K
Published: September 2024

Consumption of ergot alkaloids during the second half of gestation has been shown to decrease umbilical artery vasoactivity resulting in decreased birth weights. Negative vascular effects of ergot alkaloids are mediated predominantly through serotonergic and adrenergic receptors in other tissues. Vasoactivity of serotonin (5-HT) receptors 5-HT2A and 5-HT1B/1D in umbilical artery and vein from ewes receiving endophyte-infected seed (E + 1.77 mg ergovaline/hd/d) or a control total mixed ration (CON; 0 mg ergovaline/hd/d) tall fescue seed at d-110 and d-133 of gestation was evaluated. Gravid reproduction tracts were collected from ewes. Two-mm sections of umbilical artery and vein were exposed to increasing concentrations of a 5-HT1B/1D agonist and 5-HT2A agonist. The 5-HT1B/1D agonist did not stimulate a contractile response in artery or vein or either gestation time point. 5-HT2A agonist caused large responses in artery with greatest occurring at d-110 and decreasing in magnitude as days of gestation increased ( p < 0.05). On d-110 and 133 of gestation, arteries from CON ewes had greater contractile response than arteries collected from E+ ewes ( p < 0.05). Veins responded to increasing concentrations of the 5-HT2A agonist. Maximal d-110 vein response was greater than d-133 when exposed to 5-HT2A agonist ( p < 0.05). Unlike the artery, veins from E+ ewes had greater d-133 contractile response than CON ( p < 0.05). Vascular contractions of umbilical artery and vein are induced by 5-HT2A receptor activity and not 5-HT1B/1D. Umbilical artery 5-HT2A receptor activity was more sensitive to seed treatment and could be responsible for ergot alkaloid-induced intra-uterine growth restriction.
Alterations of the microbiome across body sites in systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yiyu , Wu Hong , Yan Chengrui , Huang Ronggui , Li Kaidi , Du Yujie , Jin Xue , Zhu Gaoqi , Zeng Hanjun , Li Baozhu
Published: September 2024

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with unclear etiology. Growing evidence suggests the microbiome plays a role in SLE pathogenesis. However, findings are inconsistent across studies due to factors like small sample sizes and geographical variations. A comprehensive meta-analysis is needed to elucidate microbiome alterations in SLE.

Objective

This study aimed to provide a systematic overview of microbiota dysbiosis across body sites in SLE through a meta-analysis of alpha diversity indices, beta diversity indices, and abundance taxa of microbiome.

Methods

A literature search was conducted across four databases to identify relevant studies comparing SLE patients and healthy controls. Extracted data encompassed alpha and beta diversity metrics, as well as bacterial, fungal, and viral abundance across gut, oral, skin, and other microbiota. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Standardized mean differences and pooled effect sizes were calculated through meta-analytical methods.

Results

The analysis showed reduced alpha diversity and distinct beta diversity in SLE, particularly in the gut microbiota. Taxonomic analysis revealed compositional variations in bacteria from the gut and oral cavity. However, results for fungi, viruses, and bacteria from other sites were inconsistent due to limited studies.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis offers a comprehensive perspective on microbiome dysbiosis in SLE patients across diverse body sites and taxa. The observed variations underscore the microbiome’s potential role in SLE pathogenesis. Future research should address geographical variations, employ longitudinal designs, and integrate multi-omics approaches.
Factors affecting discrepancies in disease activity evaluation between patients and physicians in systemic lupus erythematosus-The importance of symptoms such as fatigue
Authors: Doi Hiroshi , Ohmura Koichiro , Hashimoto Motomu , Ueno Kentaro , Takase Yudai , Inaba Ryuta , Kozuki Tomohiro , Iwasaki Takeshi , Taniguchi Masashi , Tabuchi Yuya , Shirakashi Mirei , Onizawa Hideo , Tsuji Hideaki , Onishi Akira , Watanabe Ryu , Kitagori Koji , Akizuki Shuji , Murakami Kosaku , Nakashima Ran , Yoshifuji Hajime , Yamamoto Wataru , Itaya Takahiro , Uozumi Ryuji , Tanaka Masao , Morinobu Akio
Published: September 2024

Objectives

There are often discrepancies in the evaluation of disease activity between patients and physicians in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we examined the factors that affect those evaluations.

Methods

Physician visual analogue scale (Ph-VAS), patient VAS (Pt-VAS), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2k), glucocorticoid (GC) usage and dose, age, Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index, and three patient-reported outcomes (SLE symptom checklist [SSC], short-form 36 questionnaire [SF-36], and LupusPRO) were obtained from a study performed in 2019 using 225 SLE outpatients of the Kyoto Lupus Cohort at Kyoto University Hospital. Correlations among Ph-VAS, Pt-VAS, or dif (Pt-VAS-Ph-VAS) (Pt-VAS minus Ph-VAS) and other factors were examined.

Results

We found a significant discrepancy between Pt-VAS (median 38.0 mm) and Ph-VAS (median 18.7 mm) scores ( p < 0.001). SSC score showed a significant correlation with Pt-VAS and dif (Pt-VAS-Ph-VAS) ( p < 0.001). Among SSC items, fatigue showed the most significant correlation with dif (Pt-VAS-Ph-VAS). We also showed that higher dif (Pt-VAS-Ph-VAS) was associated with lower quality of life (QOL) evaluated by SF-36 and LupusPRO.

Conclusions

Pt-VAS scores tended to be higher than Ph-VAS scores, and the discrepancy was influenced mainly by fatigue. Higher dif (Pt-VAS-Ph-VAS) was associated with lower patient QOL.
Predictors of first hospitalization due to disease activity and infections in systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Pons-Estel Guillermo J , Quintana Rosana , Ugarte-Gil Manuel F , Harvey Guillermina B , Wojdyla Daniel , Serrano-Morales Rosa , Gómez Puerta José A , García Mercedes A , Catoggio Luis J , Saurit Verónica , Drenkard Cristina , Da Silva Nilzio A , Cavalcanti Fernando , Borba Eduardo , Sato Emilia , Neira Oscar , Massardo Loreto , Vásquez Gloria , Gonzalez Luis Alonso , Guibert-Toledano Marlene , Silveira Luis H , García De La Torre Ignacio , Sauza del Pozo María Josefina , Chacón Rosa , Cardiel Mario H , Orillion Ashley , Sbarigia Urbano , Alemao Evo , Zazzetti Federico , Alarcón Graciela S , Pons-Estel Bernardo A
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To identify the predictive factors of first hospitalization and associated variables to the main causes of hospitalizations in lupus patients from a Latin American cohort.

Methods

The first hospitalization after entry into the cohort during these patients’ follow-up due to either lupus disease activity and/or infection was examined. Clinical and therapeutic variables were those occurring prior to the first hospitalization. Descriptive statistical tests, multivariable logistic, and Cox regression models were performed.

Results

1341 individuals were included in this analysis; 1200 (89.5%) were women. Their median and interquartile range (IQR) age at diagnosis were 27 (20–37) years and their median and IQR follow up time were 27.5 (4.7–62.2) months. A total of 456 (34.0%) patients were hospitalized; 344 (75.4%), 85 (18.6%) and 27 (5.9%) for disease activity, infections, or both, respectively. The predictors of the first hospitalization regardless of its cause were: medium (HR 2.03(1.27–3.24); p = 0.0028) and low (HR 2.42(1.55–3.79); p < 0.0001) socioeconomic status, serosal (HR 1.32(1.07–1.62); p = 0.0074) and renal (HR 1.50(1.23–1.82); p < 0.0001) involvement. Antimalarial (AM) use (HR 0.61(0.50–0.74); p < 0.0001) and achieving remission (HR 0.80(0.65–0.97); p = 0.0300) were negative predictors.

Conclusions

The first hospitalization was associated with worse socioeconomic status and serosal and renal involvement. Conversely, AM use and achieving remission were associated with a lower risk of hospitalizations.
Traces of Our Past: The Social Representation of the Physical World
Authors: Jara-Ettinger Julian , Schachner Adena
Published: September 2024

How do humans build and navigate their complex social world? Standard theoretical frameworks often attribute this success to a foundational capacity to analyze other people’s appearance and behavior to make inferences about their unobservable mental states. Here we argue that this picture is incomplete. Human behavior leaves traces in our physical environment that reveal our presence, our goals, and even our beliefs and knowledge. A new body of research shows that, from early in life, humans easily detect these traces—sometimes spontaneously—and readily extract social information from the physical world. From the features and placement of inanimate objects, people make inferences about past events and how people have shaped the physical world. This capacity develops early and helps explain how people have such a rich understanding of others: by drawing not only on how others act but also on the environments they have shaped. Overall, social cognition is crucial not only to our reasoning about people and actions but also to our everyday reasoning about the inanimate world.
A Precondition for Justice: Political Listening, Feminism and Sexual Violence
Authors: Serisier Tanya
Published: September 2024

Questions of speech, silencing and injustice have long been central to feminist understandings of sexual violence, and to activism around it. Listening, and its relationship to justice, in contrast, remains under-explored by feminist scholars and activists. In this article, I argue for a feminist politics of listening as an essential precondition for justice around sexual violence. I argue that feminist engagements with listening have tended to be limited to questions of belief but that this is inadequate for a just practice of listening. Instead, I call for the development of a feminist listening public that engages in active practices of both attentive listening in for the details and nuances of survivor speech and listening out to unheard and marginalised voices. It is only within the context of collective political labour around listening, I suggest, that we can begin to develop a just politics around sexual violence.
Tribal Health in India: Overcoming Public Health Challenges with a Focus on Tuberculosis
Authors: Kumari Rinki
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

India’s tribal communities face significant public health issues, with tuberculosis (TB) being a major concern. These populations experience a higher TB burden due to limited healthcare access, socioeconomic inequalities, and distinct cultural practices. This study focuses on the prevalence and impact of TB among these communities.

Methods:

A comprehensive review of literature from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar was conducted to analyze the health challenges, particularly TB, affecting India’s tribal populations.

Results:

The review highlights a significant disparity in TB prevalence between tribal and non-tribal populations. Factors like inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited medical access, and socioeconomic inequalities, along with cultural practices, complicate TB transmission and treatment, emphasizing the need for culturally tailored interventions.

Conclusion:

Addressing the TB crisis in India’s tribal communities requires a holistic and culturally sensitive approach. Collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, policymakers, and tribal communities are crucial to improving health outcomes and preserving cultural heritage for a sustainable future.
Study in China and ‘Agency in Mobility’: Insights from African International Students’ Narratives
Authors: Xu Wen
Published: September 2024

This article addresses two under-theorised subjects in international student mobility (ISM) research: non-Asian students and students in non-traditional study destinations. Drawing upon the notion of ‘agency in mobility’, I explored African international students’ narratives of their enactment of four different forms of agency in China. The findings reveal that they are not ‘insufficient’, ‘lazy’ and dumb’ populations as essentialised in the existing literature, instead, the participants exhibited high level of agency in response to adversity, study needs and life issues, and their future aspirations. Notwithstanding the same forms of agency displayed in previous ‘agency in mobility’ research undertaken in the West, I argue that agency performance was entangled with scholarship status; scholarship recipients tended to navigate institutional and social structures with a softer approach. The findings have important implications for higher education institutions to change their practices to enhance China's higher education brand for global competitiveness.
A retrospective study of lingual lesions in 793 dogs and 406 cats at the Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, 2010–2020
Authors: Riker Jesse , Rissi Daniel R.
Published: September 2024

Lingual biopsies are a common type of sample submission at the Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (AVDL). Here we describe the pathology diagnoses of 793 canine and 406 feline lingual biopsies submitted to the AVDL in a 10-y period. Non-neoplastic lesions accounted for 450 diagnoses (57%) in dogs and 239 diagnoses (59%) in cats. Canine non-neoplastic lesions consisted of inflammatory lesions (286 cases; 64% of non-neoplastic lesions) and tumor-like proliferative lesions (164 cases; 36% of non-neoplastic lesions). Feline non-neoplastic lesions consisted of inflammatory lesions (228 cases; 95% of non-neoplastic lesions) and tumor-like proliferative lesions (11 cases; 5% of non-neoplastic lesions). The most common canine neoplasms were melanocytic neoplasms (103 cases; 30% of neoplasms) and epithelial neoplasms (102 cases; 30% of neoplasms), followed by mesenchymal neoplasms (90 cases; 26% of neoplasms) and round cell neoplasms (48 cases; 14% of neoplasms). Approximately 43% of melanocytic neoplasms affected Chow Chows and Labrador Retrievers, and 20% of epithelial neoplasms affected Labrador Retrievers. In cats, most tumors were epithelial (158 cases; 94% of neoplasms), followed by mesenchymal (8 cases; 5% of neoplasms) and round cell neoplasms (1 case; 1% of neoplasms). Over 50% of neoplasms of cats affected domestic shorthair cats. Although the percentage of lingual biopsies that had a neoplastic diagnosis was roughly the same between species, the diversity of neoplasms was much greater in dogs than in cats.
Do You See What I See? Examining College Internships From Both the Intern and Supervisor Perspectives
Authors: Kristoff Celine , Hill Stephen C. , Nakai Yoshie , Daugherty Hannah
Published: September 2024

Background: The mentoring and leader–member exchange (LMX) literature suggests that the relationship formed between interns and their supervisors contributes to interns’ career development. Although interns and their supervisors evaluate their relationship quality differently, the quality of intern–supervisor relationship is often evaluated only by interns in the literature. Purpose: This study examined college intern-supervisor relationships from both the intern and supervisor perspectives. Methodology/Approach: The quantitative data were collected from 183 college intern-supervisor pairs in the United States by a survey questionnaire. Interns and supervisors both reported their weekly interaction frequency and their LMX quality. Interns also reported their perceived career support received from the supervisors and clarity of their professional identity. Findings/Conclusions: For both interns and supervisors, their interaction frequency was positively related to their evaluation of LMX quality. However, only interns’ perceived LMX led to a greater perception of career support, which in turn fostered a greater sense of clarity of professional identity among interns. Implications: The study highlights the importance of interaction frequency in the development of high-quality intern–supervisor relationships and intern–supervisor differences in evaluating the relationship. Guiding both interns and supervisors to develop relationships can benefit interns’ professional growth and better address employers’ recruitment needs through college internship programs.
Analyzing Amharic Names Given to Ethiopian “Modern” Education From Its Inception to the Present
Authors: Negash Tesema Melese
Published: September 2024

Different Amharic names were given to Ethiopian modern education. The purpose of this article was to analyze these names given to it from its commencement to the present against it. To achieve this purpose, 40 names were collected using document analysis and interview and were analyzed qualitatively using thematic analysis. The analysis disclosed that different Amharic names were given for it to reflect opposition to it starting from its inception to the present. The findings revealed that the names given to Ethiopian modern education have different implications that are related to relevance, work discipline, indigenousness, equity and access, spirituality and religion, and politics.
Mediating Effect of Student Engagement Between IT Facilities and Student Performance
Authors: Sayem S. M. , Islam Azharul , Kabir Sadman
Published: September 2024

The study investigates the role of the extent to use and value consideration of IT facilities on student performance and analyzes the mediating role of student engagement between IT facilities and student performance. Data collected from university students has been analyzed using the structural equation model. The results show that the extent to use of IT facilities has a significant positive impact on student performance, and student engagement plays a significant mediating role between IT facilities and student performance. This study will have significant implications for policymakers in deciding and designing appropriate technology for the education system of a country.
Exploring Teachers’ Deep-Level Challenges of Teaching Reading Comprehension in Online Classes: “Infrastructure is not Entirely to Blame”
Authors: Meihami Hussein , Abdoli Behrokh
Published: September 2024

Understanding the challenges that EFL/ESL teachers face while teaching reading comprehension in online classes is crucial. This is because of the developmental nature of using technology in L2 pedagogy. Therefore, we conducted a transcendental phenomenology study to explore EFL/ESL teachers’ challenges in teaching reading comprehension in online classes. We analyzed 12 teachers’ narratives and interviews using Giorgi's (2009) five-step framework. We found that teachers faced three main challenges while teaching reading comprehension in online classes. Firstly, students had low cognitive preparation concerning the content of reading comprehension and using technology, which bring about challenges for teachers. Secondly, teachers struggled to adopt online teaching strategies to teach reading comprehension in online classes. Finally, they faced technological issues in online classes. We concluded that EFL/ESL teachers encounter two types of challenges when teaching reading comprehension in online classes. The first type is surface-level challenges, which are related to obvious reasons such as insufficient infrastructure. The second type is deep-level challenges, which are implicit and lead to surface-level challenges. As for the implication of the study, the findings prioritize the importance of addressing teachers’ professional development in using technology in L2 pedagogy.
Geographic Differences in School Success Among Children and Adolescents in the United States
Authors: Crouch Elizabeth , Figas Kristen , Benavidez Gabriel A. , Bennett Kevin , Hung Peiyin
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between rurality and challenges to school success: lack of school engagement, school absenteeism, and repeated grade. Cross-sectional data from the 2020 to 2021 National Survey of Children's Health, children ages 6 to 17 ( n = 42,089), was used. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between residence rurality and each outcome of interest. In bivariate analysis, rural children were more likely to have school absenteeism and repeat a school grade. In our adjusted models, there were no differences between rurality and the three measures of school success. Rural and urban children may be vulnerable to different risk factors for school failure. Findings from this study may be used by school nurses and policymakers as they design and implement programs in rural schools.
Initial Development of the Child Responsiveness Scale for Early Childhood Settings
Authors: McLeod Bryce D. , Sutherland Kevin S. , Broda Michael D. , Granger Kristen L. , Hollins Nicole , Frey Andy J. , Markowicz Katrina A. , Dear Emma
Published: September 2024

This article presents initial psychometric data for scores on the Child Responsiveness Scale (CRS), an observational measure to assess child responsiveness to teacher delivery of practices designed to promote social-emotional competencies. In Study 1, 633 live observations conducted with 54 teachers and 91 children at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders in early childhood classrooms were rated independently by two coders. Interrater reliability, ICC(2,2), for the CRS item scores, averaged .67 ( SD = .06; range .55 to .72). The CRS scale scores demonstrated sensitivity to variation across teachers, children, and coders. In Study 2, 634 recorded observations with 52 teachers and 52 children in early childhood classrooms were rated independently by two coders. Interrater reliability, ICC(2,2), for the item scores, averaged .62 ( SD = .08; range .53 to .74). An exploratory factor analysis and a confirmatory factor analysis conducted on separate samples indicated that the items were best represented as two correlated factors, one for positive and one for negative items. Analyses provided preliminary evidence for CRS scale score validity. Future research directions are discussed regarding using the CRS to evaluate child responsiveness’s role in promoting child outcomes in early childhood classrooms.
Challenges in Agrobiodiversity Maintenance in Southwest Bangladesh: An Intersectional Analysis
Authors: Chandrabalan Dorothy , Thambiah Shanthi , Idrus Rusaslina
Published: September 2024

Guided by the intersectional approach, the objective of the paper is to engage gender as an analytical variable across class and spatial inequalities to explore agrobiodiversity maintenance. The paper dwells on challenges faced, and factors influencing agrobiodiversity choices and its maintenance. Data was collected from a survey of 343 households, 14 focus group discussions conducted in seven villages, and in-depth interviews with 30 research participants in Southwest Bangladesh. The findings show that challenges in maintaining agrobiodiversity and its choices are gender, class, and spatially differentiated within the context of environmental change. The challenges faced by rural households in maintaining agrobiodiversity are not linear and straightforward and poor women are inclined to make choices to ensure food security and wellbeing of the family. Therefore, understanding how overlapping inequalities in rural farming areas experiencing environmental change is key to the design of agrobiodiversity-based solutions towards food security for the poor.
Total Ankle Arthroplasty as a Correction Tool for Foot Deformities: Analyzing the Impact on Medial Column Alignment Adaptation Through Weightbearing Computed Tomography
Authors: Efrima Ben , Barbero Agustin , Benady Amit , Halimi Yair Green , Lichtenstein Adi , Indino Cristian , Maccario Camilla , Usuelli Federico Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

Background:

While weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) has been instrumental in analyzing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) positioning, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding adaptive changes in the foot’s medial column after TAA. This study aims to bridge this gap by comparing preoperative and postoperative alignments of the foot’s medial column and analyzing if a correlation exists between TAA coronal alignment correction and medial column alignment adaptation.

Methods:

Sixty patients who underwent a lateral approach TAA for end-stage osteoarthritis (OA) between January 2021 and April 2023 were included in this retrospective study. Patients were divided into varus (n = 30) and valgus (n = 30) groups. Preoperative and postoperative WBCT scans were analyzed to measure medial column alignment. Statistical analysis evaluated alignment corrections and correlations.

Results:

Both groups showed significant plantarflexion of the second tarsometatarsal (TMT) angle, with a median adaptation of −1 degree (IQR −3, 0; P < .01) in the valgus group and −1 degree (IQR −3, 0; P = .03) in the varus group. The varus group exhibited increased plantarflexion of the first TMT angle (median −1 degree, IQR −1, −2; P = .03). Both groups demonstrated increased adduction of the medial column. The talonavicular coverage angle adaptation averaged 7.2 ± 14 degrees ( P < .01) in the valgus and 9 ± 12 degrees ( P < .01) in the varus group. The talo–first metatarsal axial angle adaptation was 5 ± 13 degrees ( P = .03) in the valgus group and 9.5 ± 15 degrees ( P = .08) in the varus group.

Conclusion:

WBCT analysis revealed significant medial column adaptation post-TAA in varus and valgus alignments. However, no correlation was found between hindfoot correction and forefoot adaptation, making it challenging to predict the need for additional realignment surgeries. Future studies should explore the relationship between tibiotalar correction and medial column alignment to improve outcomes and the influence of total ankle design on medial column adaptation.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case control study.
Anchoring Vignettes: A Useful Tool to Measure and Correct for Cultural Bias in Parent Reports on Their Child’s Mental Health?
Authors: Runge Ronja A. , Soellner Renate
Published: September 2024

Parent report measures developed in the Western world are commonly used to assess children’s mental health, but their cross-cultural comparability is questionable. The present study examines the use of anchoring vignettes to assess and adjust for bias in five countries: the United States, Mexico, Germany, China, and Russia. Parents ( N = 500) rated their child’s mental health and vignettes depicting internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors in an online survey. Vignette ratings were used to assess bias and for rescaling. Cross-national comparisons of vignette scores revealed differences in the use of the scale range and overall level of vignette scores. Measurement invariance across countries improved after rescaling, resulting in weak invariance for internalizing and strong invariance for externalizing problem behavior. Rescaled scores revealed cross-national differences that were masked using the raw score. Results confirm the lacking cross-national comparability in parent reports of child mental health, and anchoring vignettes appear to be a useful tool for reducing bias.
Delineation of the “Oropharyngeal Mucosa” and Limiting its Dose in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Spares the Oropharynx Without Compromising Target Coverage
Authors: Wang Xueqi , Han Yanyan , Zhi Zheng , Xu Wenzhong , Ge Jianli , Liang Xi , Li Diancheng , He Jianming
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Radiation-induced oropharyngeal injury is a dose-limiting toxicity in head and neck cancer patients. Delineation of the “oropharyngeal mucosa” and limiting its dose to spare the oropharynx was investigated.

Methods

In this retrospective study, computed tomography imaging from eight patients with previously untreated head and neck cancer was employed. An adaptive contouring brush within the planning software Monaco was used to create an air cavity within the oropharynx, and then the air cavity was expanded uniformly 2 mm to create the “oropharyngeal mucosa”. Three plans were independently generated for each patient: Plan1: dose constraint was applied for the oropharynx; Plan2: dose constraints were applied for the oropharynx and the “oropharyngeal mucosa”; Plan3: dose constraint was applied for the “oropharyngeal mucosa”. T-tests were used to compare the dosimetry variables.

Results

All plans had adequate target coverage and there were no statistical differences among plans. The mean dose, D30%, D45%, D50%, D85%, D90%, D95%, D100%, V25 Gy, V30 Gy, V35 Gy, V40 Gy, and V45 Gy of the oropharynx and “oropharyngeal mucosa” in Plan1 were significantly higher than those in Plan2 and Plan3. There were no significant differences between Plan2 and Plan3. There were no significant differences in the dosimetric parameters of any other organs at risk.

Conclusion

Delineation of the “oropharyngeal mucosa” and limiting its dose should be an easy and effective method to spare the oropharynx.
Parents’ Intentions of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Students in Vietnam: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nguyen Lam Thi Phuong , Phan Dung Quoc , Gyan Araba , Nguyen Han Thi Ngoc , Cassell David , Huynh Giao
Published: September 2024

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known as a common agent of sexually transmitted infections and cervical cancer. One of the most effective ways for parents to protect their children from HPV is by ensuring they receive vaccinations.

Aim

To determine the percentage of parents who intend to vaccinate their children against HPV and associated factors.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 365 parents who had children attending high school in Ha Tinh province, Vietnam, from April to May 2023, using stratified and random sampling methods. Data were collected by a self-administered questionnaire designed based on previous studies and the domains of the Theory of Planned Behavior and Health Belief Model. A multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the association between several factors and vaccination status.

Result

A total of 365 participants took part in the study. The rate of parents intending to vaccinate their children against HPV was 55.9%. Knowledge about the HPV disease and vaccine (all P < .05) and the attitude of parents ( P < .001) were determined as the motivation factors that affect the intention to vaccinate children against HPV.

Conclusion

Many parents still do not have the intention to vaccinate children against HPV. Health education communication should focus on the motivation factors, not only to improve the parents’ knowledge and perspective but also to increase the coverage of the vaccine to prevent cancers caused by HPV.
Postoperative Radiotherapy in Curatively Resected Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma With Occult Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Lymph Node Metastasis
Authors: Liu Di , Wu Songsong , Ni Jianjiao , Xiang Jiaqing , Zhang Junhua
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Surgery is the mainstream treatment for early-stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and occult recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph node metastasis (RLNM) is not uncommon among those with R0 resection. The clinical value of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) in patients with RLNM only is still controversial.

Methods

Consecutive patients with early-stage ESCC treated with R0 resection and pathologically confirmed RLNM only from June 2012 to July 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. PORT, covering the supraclavicular and superior mediastinum area (small T-field) at a dose of 50.4 Gy for 28 fractions, was performed in some patients. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance the baseline characteristics between patients with or without PORT. Pattern of failure, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared.

Results

Among the 189 patients identified, 69 (35.5%) received PORT and the other 120 (63.5%) did not. After PSM, 154 patients were included in the matched cohort, including 62 in the PORT group and 92 in the non-PORT group. With a median follow-up of 48 (95% CI: 40.3-55.7) months, 69 patients developed their initial disease recurrence in the whole population and PORT significantly decreased the frequency of local recurrence (61.2% vs 21.4%) among those with recurrent disease. Additionally, in the PSM matched cohort, PORT significantly prolonged patients’ DFS (HR 0.393, P = 0.002) and OS (HR 0.462, P = 0.020). Moreover, PORT remained as the independent factor associated with improved DFS (HR 0.360, P = 0.001) and OS (HR 0.451, P = 0.021) after multivariate Cox analyses. In addition, tumor location and pathological TNM stage were found to be independent prognostic factors associated with survival outcomes.

Conclusion

PORT is associated with improved DFS and OS in ESCC patients with R0 resection and RLNM only, which warrants future validation.
Enhancing bearing and gear fault diagnosis: A VMD-PSO approach with multisensory signal integration
Authors: Lourari Abdel Wahhab , El Yousfi Bilal , Benkedjouh Tarak , Bouzar Essaidi Ahmed , Soualhi Abdenour
Published: September 2024

In the domain of signal analysis for machinery health monitoring and fault diagnosis, this paper introduces a comprehensive methodology that integrates Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and advanced machine learning techniques. The primary objective of this framework is to establish a robust and precise approach for signal decomposition, determining the optimal number of Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMF), and calculating key indicators, including L2/L1, Hoyer Index, and Geometric Mean Improved Gini Index (GMIGI). The methodology initiates with VMD-based signal decomposition, followed by the utilization of PSO to identify the most appropriate number of IMFs for accurate feature extraction. Subsequently, each IMF’s performance is assessed by evaluating its correlation with the input signal, and the IMF with the highest Pearson coefficient is selected as the primary feature for diagnostic purposes. To ensure the robustness and comparability of these indicators, a standardization process is implemented. The standardized indicators are then employed for machinery fault diagnosis, utilizing a diverse set of machine learning algorithms such as support vector machines and discriminant analysis. The proposed methodology undergoes rigorous validation using vibration, acoustic, and current signals, providing a versatile solution for the condition monitoring and diagnosis of mechanical systems. For model validation, we utilize four datasets comprising two vibrational, one acoustic, and one electrical dataset. The experimental results affirm the effectiveness of our approach in accurately detecting and diagnosing faults, thereby contributing to the reliability and maintenance efficiency of industrial machinery.
Adaptive robust control of the PMSM servo system with servo and performance constraints
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Zhen Shengchao , Wang Faliang , Li Ming
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a prescribed performance control scheme for an uncertain permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) servo system. First, the position-tracking control goals are reformulated as servo constraints, while the prescribed tracking error performances are defined as performance constraints. Second, a modified prescribed performance function (PPF) is proposed to ensure the prescribed tracking performance, while the knowledge of the initial tracking error is unnecessary. Then, the new servo constraints are formulated by introducing the state transformation technique to incorporate the tracking error performance constraints into the servo constraints. Third, an adaptive robust constraint-following control (ARCFC) is presented to render the new servo constraints to be satisfied for the transformed system. Fourth, it is proved that the proposed ARCFC can ensure the position tracking error converges and remains in a preset bounded range. Finally, the simulation and experimental verification of the developed ARCFC are conducted.
Adaptive fast iterative filter Holo-spectrum analysis and its applications to fault diagnosis of rolling bearing
Authors: Peng Guoliang , Zheng Jinde , Tong Baohong , Tong Jinyu
Published: September 2024

As a signal demodulation analysis technique, Holo–Hilbert spectral analysis (HHSA) excels in capturing the intricate cross-scale coupling dynamics present in nonlinear and non-stationary vibration signals. Nonetheless, HHSA suffers from a lack of rigorous mathematical foundation, is subject to modal mixing constraints, and exhibits limited noise robustness. To address the aforementioned issues, this study presents an innovative nonlinear and non-stationary signal demodulation technique, referred to as adaptive fast iterative filter Holo-spectrum analysis (AFIFHSA). Also, an adaptive fast iterative filtering (AFIF) algorithm incorporated within AFIFHSA is designed to dynamically achieve a nonlinear and non-stationary signal decomposing. From that, several approximate narrowband signals, possessing physical significance at an instantaneous frequency, and a trend term can be obtained. Furthermore, the marginal spectrum (MS) obtained by AFIFHSA can be utilized to represent the effectiveness of fault characteristic identification. Lastly, the simulation and measured data are utilized to showcase AFIFHSA’s exceptional capabilities in recognizing high-resolution and eximious modulation relationships. The analysis outcomes additionally illustrate that AFIFHSA, as proposed, showcases superior performance in fault identification and robustness with comparison to other conventional approaches.
Innate Qualities or Learned Skills? Copy Editors Disagree About the Need for Training
Authors: Appelman Alyssa , Hettinga Kirstie
Published: September 2024

This survey of US copy editors, proofreaders, and fact-checkers ( N = 472) examines practitioners’ perceptions of the skills and training required for the field. The participants recommended that new hires be skilled in grammar, sentence structure, working on deadline, time management, accuracy, fact-checking, and critical thinking; they disagreed about whether certain skills are innate or whether they can be taught. They also disagreed about whether such training should occur in universities or through on-the-job mentoring.
Intersectionality Pedagogy: Centering Black Women’s Knowledges, Voices, and Lives in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Haynes Chayla , Patton Lori D. , Joseph Nicole M.
Published: September 2024

Intersectionality is a perspective that brings visibility to how Black women are relegated to the margins of the university curriculum, if included at all. With this article, we extend our research on intersectionality methodology to explore intersectionality pedagogy (IP) and the significance of centering Black women’s experiences in teaching and learning processes as one form of me-search. IP serves as the framing to build on the legacy of bell hooks and bring Black women, our knowledges and lived experiences from the margins of society to the center of pedagogical praxis.
Can Trauma-Informed Yoga Center Intersectional Feminist Praxis? The Case of a UK Community Yoga Organization
Authors: Triantafyllidou Evanthia , Cowles Megan , Harvey-Rolfe Leonie
Published: September 2024

This article discusses the tensions around trauma-informed narratives and mind-body practices, which may obscure social inequalities. We present the evaluation of community yoga programs and explore how trauma-informed yoga can be part of the healing process of women subject to interlocking systems of oppression. The study showed how the sociocultural location of participants shaped their engagement with normative yoga discourses and practices. Yoga was perceived as a practice that improved the sense of healing and well-being, and created relational spaces during COVID-19. The article also discusses the value of embodied self-inquiry as an intersectional feminist tool for researchers and practitioners.
The Propensity for Deviant Sexual Behavior in the General Population: An Empirical Examination of the Motivation-Facilitation Model
Authors: Lehmann Robert J. B. , Obermeier Fabian , Schmidt Alexander F. , Enge Sören
Published: September 2024

In their influential paper Wurtele et al. (2014) investigated the degree to which individuals within the general population ( N = 435) express sexual interest in children. In the male population of their study ( n = 173), about 6% showed a propensity to engage in sexual activity with a child. Based on a German general population sample consisting of women and men ( N = 911, n = 206 males), we were able to replicate most of the results of Wurtele and colleagues (e.g., 6% of men indicated some likelihood of having sex with a child). To explain sexual offending, Seto (2019) developed the motivation-facilitation model (MFM). In our study, we were interested whether this model also translates to explaining the propensity for deviant sexual behavior in the general population. Moderated hierarchical logistic regression analyses revealed that hypersexuality and sexual fantasies had significant effects as motivating factors for deviant sexual behavior (e.g., sexually assaulting an adult), whereas we found no significant effect of psychopathy as a facilitator. For the prediction of child sexual abuse, only hypersexuality had a significant effect. Notably, after including gender in both models the effect of hypersexuality was no longer significant. Accordingly, we were able to show that the MFM is useful in explaining the propensity for deviant sexual behavior foremost in the male general population. Thus, in clinical practice an assessment of hypersexuality seems to be most relevant for the male population.
Maternal Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Serology: The Diagnostic Limitations of CMV IgM and IgG Avidity in Detecting Congenital CMV Infection
Authors: Chan Elaine S. , Suchet Ian , Somerset David , de Koning Lawrence , Chadha Rati , Soliman Nancy , Kuret Verena , Yu Weiming , Lauzon Julie , Thomas Mary Ann , Poon Elaine , Zhou Hong Yuan
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is a common congenital viral infection. Testing for cCMV usually begins with assessing maternal CMV serology, specifically IgM and IgG antibodies. A negative maternal CMV IgM suggests a low risk of recent maternal CMV infection, thereby suggesting a low risk of cCMV in the fetus. Consequently, cCMV is often ruled out when maternal CMV IgM is negative.

Methods:

In our perinatal autopsy and placental pathology database, we identified 5 cases of cCMV despite negative maternal CMV IgM results in the second trimester.

Results:

In all 5 cases, fetal abnormalities were first detected by ultrasound in the second trimester, prompting maternal CMV testing. Since second trimester maternal CMV IgM was negative in all cases, cCMV was considered unlikely, thus precluding further prenatal CMV testing in 4 of these cases. The diagnosis of cCMV was subsequently made through placental and/or autopsy examinations. Following this diagnosis, retrospective CMV serology and IgG avidity testing was performed on stored frozen first-trimester maternal blood samples in 3 cases. Among these, the first-trimester samples in 2 cases were IgG+, IgM+, and exhibited low IgG avidity, suggesting a primary maternal CMV infection around the time of conception. In the third case, both first and second-trimester maternal blood samples were IgG+, IgM−, and showed high IgG avidity, suggesting a non-primary maternal CMV infection (i.e., reactivation or reinfection of CMV).

Conclusion:

A negative maternal CMV IgM in the second trimester cannot exclude cCMV infection. While CMV IgG avidity testing and analysis of stored frozen first-trimester maternal blood samples provide valuable insights, they have limitations. CMV PCR performed on amniotic fluid is a useful prenatal diagnostic tool. For cases of unexplained fetal abnormalities or death, autopsy and placental examination are recommended.