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In everyday life, people need to respond appropriately to many types of emotional stimuli. Here, we investigate whether human occipital-temporal cortex (OTC) shows co-representation of the semantic category and affective content of visual stimuli. We also explore whether OTC transformation of semantic and affective features extracts information of value for guiding behavior. Participants viewed 1620 emotional natural images while functional magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired. Using voxel-wise modeling we show widespread tuning to semantic and affective image features across OTC. The top three principal components underlying OTC voxel-wise responses to image features encoded stimulus animacy, stimulus arousal and interactions of animacy with stimulus valence and arousal. At low to moderate dimensionality, OTC tuning patterns predicted behavioral responses linked to each image better than regressors directly based on image features. This is consistent with OTC representing stimulus semantic category and affective content in a manner suited to guiding behavior.

Transportation pricing strategies aim to manage vehicle travel demand, collect revenue, or force drivers to internalize the costs they impose on other persons (e.g., delayed travel time) and physical infrastructure. Pricing strategies include parking pricing, cordon- and area-based congestion pricing, road-usage charges (RUCs), and high-occupancy toll (HOT) lane pricing. These pricing strategies were, however, designed before the advent of ride-sourcing companies (i.e., Transportation Network Companies or TNCs) and automated vehicles (AVs). Hence, the efficacy of existing pricing strategies in a world with TNCs and a future world with AVs is unclear. Moreover, future pricing strategies must consider the behavior of TNC fleet operators in addition to private vehicle drivers.

Abstract: Introduction: Though urinary incontinence (UI) after prostate treatment often contributes to emotional distress and significantly impacts quality of life, many patients do not discuss this condition with their physicians. We analyzed the patient perspective by examining online support group posts to gain insight into specific challenges associated with different UI management methods. Methods: We examined discussion board threads from multiple patient‐focused forums on experiences of UI due to prostate treatment (threads from January 2016 to January 2022). Principles of grounded theory in thematic analysis were used to analyze the threads. Results: Three hundred and eighteen posts from 84 unique users were analyzed. Among users, 47 (56%) reported UI following radical prostatectomy (RP), 5 (6%) secondary to radiation therapy (RT), 12 (14%) after a combination of RP and RT, and 20 (24%) were ambiguous. UI management methods included pads/diapers/liners, condom catheters/external clamps, Kegels/pelvic floor physiotherapy, and surgical treatment (artificial urinary sphincter or sling placement). We identified challenges common to all management methods: “requires trial and error,” “physical discomfort,” and “difficult to be in public.” Factors influencing management choices included the ability to “feel normal” and the development of a management routine. Conclusion: The current study identifies opportunities for improved expectation‐setting and education regarding post‐procedural UI and its management. These findings can serve as a guide for providers to counsel patients on the advantages and disadvantages of UI management devices.

This cross-sectional study investigates injury trends associated with electric bicycles in the US from 2017 to 2022.

PurposeOveractive bladder (OAB) syndrome significantly impairs quality of life, often necessitating pharmacological interventions with associated risks. The fragility of OAB trial outcomes, as measured by the fragility index (FI: smallest number of event changes to reverse statistical significance) and quotient (FQ: FI divided by total sample size expressed as a percentage), is critical yet unstudied.Materials and methodsWe conducted a systematic search for randomized controlled trials on OAB medications published between January 2000 and August 2023. Inclusion criteria were trials with two parallel arms reporting binary outcomes related to OAB medications. We extracted trial details, outcomes, and statistical tests employed. We calculated FI and FQ, analyzing associations with trial characteristics through linear regression.ResultsWe included 57 trials with a median sample size of 211 participants and a 12% median lost to follow-up. Most studies investigated anticholinergics (37/57, 65%). The median FI/FQ was 5/3.5%. Larger trials were less fragile (median FI 8; FQ 1.0%) compared to medium (FI: 4; FQ 2.5%) and small trials (FI: 4; FQ 8.3%). Double-blinded studies exhibited higher FQs (median 2.9%) than unblinded trials (6.7%). Primary and secondary outcomes had higher FIs (median 5 and 6, respectively) than adverse events (FI: 4). Each increase in 10 participants was associated with a +0.19 increase in FI (p

PurposeWe evaluate the efficacy and safety profiles of currently available conservative management options for penile and urethral lichen sclerosus.Materials and methodsA systematic review of existing literature on lichen sclerosus was conducted utilizing the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. References were assessed for relevance to nonsurgical management of male genital lichen sclerosus by title and abstract by 3 independent reviewers, then reviewed in full and in duplicate by 5 independent reviewers.ResultsSeventeen studies describing conservative management of histologically confirmed penile and urethral lichen sclerosus in male patients were included in the final review. We present available evidence supporting the use of 4 major treatment modalities represented in the existing literature: topical corticosteroids, tacrolimus, platelet-rich plasma, and CO2 laser. We also briefly discuss the limited studies on the use of oral acitretin and polydeoxyribonucleotide injections. Outcomes assessed include symptoms, clinical appearance, quality of life, sexual satisfaction, adverse effects, and long-term efficacy of treatment.ConclusionsTopical corticosteroids remain the mainstay of conservative management of penile and urethral lichen sclerosus, with current literature supporting the use of other therapies such as tacrolimus and platelet-rich plasma as alternatives or adjuvant treatments when escalation of treatment is necessary. Future research should further explore the efficacy and safety of newer therapies through additional controlled clinical trials in the targeted population.

This study aimed to examine how varying concentrations (0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0%, and 4.0%) of nano-L-α phosphatidylcholine (nano-L-α-PC) affected the quality of post-thawed buffalo bull semen compared to the same concentrations of L-α-phosphatidylcholine (L-α-PC), while 20% egg yolk (EY) was used as a control. Ejaculates (n = 72) were collected from fertile buffalo bulls (n = 12) for 6 weeks. The ejaculates were pooled and divided into 11 groups (3 aliquots per group) extended with 20% EY (Group 1 without supplement), 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0%, and 4.0% nano-L-α-PC (Groups 2–6), and 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0%, and 4.0% L-α-PC (Groups 7–11) in tris buffer. After cryopreservation procedures, semen samples were thawed at 37 °C and then evaluated for sperm kinematics, acrosomes, plasma membranes, and DNA integrities. The seminal plasma was analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reduced (GSH), and catalase (CAT). Results demonstrated that extended semen samples containing 1.0-3.0% nano-L-α-PC and 1.0-4.0% L-α-PC showed high total motility compared to control, whereas at 0.5–4.0% of nano-L-α-PC and L-α-PC showed high progressive motility. Significant (P< 0.05) wobble levels were seen at 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0% nano-L-α-PC, and distance average path and velocity average path at 2.0% L-α-PC. Acrosome and plasma membrane integrities were markedly elevated (P< 0.0001) at 2.0% nano-L-α-PC and 4.0% L-α-PC. High DNA integrity metrics were noticed at 0.5–1.0% nano-L-α-PC, as well as 3.0% and 4% L-α-PC. Low MDA and high (SOD, GSH, and CAT) levels were observed at 2.0% nano-L-α-PC and 4.0% L-α-PC. In conclusion, the optimum concentration of nano-L-α-PC that improved semen quality was 2.0%, which is roughly equivalent to the effect of 4.0% L-α-PC.

Abstract In this paper, a dual-parameter liquid level and refractive index (R.I.) sensor is fabricated using three pieces of bare polymer optical fibers (POFs), which can independently and simultaneously sense the liquid level and R.I. The proposed sensor design utilizes the twisted coupling technique, in which two optical fibers are twisted and coupled with macro-bending. The liquid level measurement depends on the coupling loss, where the light is transmitted to emission fiber (EF) and twisted with coupled acceptor fiber (AF). The proposed liquid level sensor can measure depths up to 125 mm with a sensitivity of 8.03 nW/mm. Moreover, R.I. sensing depends on the twisted coupled macro-bending (TCMB) technique, where the EF generates bend loss and the AF couples the loss, where the coupled power varies due to the transformation in R.I. of coupling medium. The R.I. sensor revealing a notable sensitivity of -2663%/RIU and an impressive resolution of 3.754 × 10−4 in the different NaCl-saturated liquids featuring R.I. range extending from 1.333 to 1.361. The experimental findings indicate the sensor exhibits excellent stability and reliability. The sensor’s straightforward, comprehensive, and cost-effective design enables its application in chemical, petroleum, and other industries.

A family-skills program for Latino fathers and youth was implemented to prevent youth obesity. Lessons learned focused on practices to address barriers to engagement and retention among fathers and youth within the Latino community. Program development issues included selection of organizations, facilitators, language, and delivery methods. Implementation issues included timing and location. Cultural issues regarding learner needs, and teaching and implementation methods need to be considered. Using the lessons learned, Extension professionals can create impactful programs that engage and retain Latino fathers and youth.

Abstract Formative verbal feedback during live surgery is essential for adjusting trainee behavior and accelerating skill acquisition. Despite its importance, understanding optimal feedback is challenging due to the difficulty of capturing and categorizing feedback at scale. We propose a Human-AI Collaborative Refinement Process that uses unsupervised machine learning (Topic Modeling) with human refinement to discover feedback categories from surgical transcripts. Our discovered categories are rated highly for clinical clarity and are relevant to practice, including topics like “Handling and Positioning of (tissue)” and “(Tissue) Layer Depth Assessment and Correction [during tissue dissection].” These AI-generated topics significantly enhance predictions of trainee behavioral change, providing insights beyond traditional manual categorization. For example, feedback on “Handling Bleeding” is linked to improved behavioral change. This work demonstrates the potential of AI to analyze surgical feedback at scale, informing better training guidelines and paving the way for automated feedback and cueing systems in surgery.

Background: The optimal therapeutic strategy for coronary intervention in edge in-stent restenosis (edge ISR) remains less well-defined. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess 12-month outcomes of re-stenting using drug-eluting stents (DESs) versus using drug-eluting balloon (DEB) for managing coronary edge ISR. Patients and Methods: One hundred and four patients with edge ISR were randomly assigned to either DES or DEB. The primary endpoint was stent failure at 12-month follow-up. Results: Significantly lower target vessel revascularization among the DEB group compared to restenting group, (7.7% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.04). Likewise, target vessel-related myocardial infarction rate was significantly lower among the DEB group than restenting (5.7% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.04). On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the rates of deaths or restenosis between the two groups. Conclusion: The DEB is superior to the DES with better both safety and efficacy.

Abstract Background The emulsion polymerization of vinyl monomers has been extensively researched, but copolymerization with crotonic acid or cinnamic acid is relatively uncommon. These acids are capable of coordinating with other metal ions. Our previous research has focused on synthesizing and characterizing copolymers of butyl acrylate (BuA)/vinyl acetate (VAc) and styrene-BuA using emulsion techniques, specifically for paint applications. The current work aimed to synthesize and characterize three binary chelating copolymers of styrene with maleic, cinnamic, and crotonic acids. In addition, the prepared chelating copolymers were treated with water and soluble salts of copper and iron for complex formation. Additionally, the characterization and electrical properties of these copolymers were investigated. Results This article reports the synthesis of three binary copolymers of styrene with cinnamic, crotonic, and maleic acids via an emulsion polymerization process using a redox initiation system of potassium persulfate/glucose in the presence of sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate as an emulsifier. The prepared emulsions of the copolymers were precipitated and purified using Soxhlet extraction in a mixture of n-hexane and toluene. Spectroscopic measurements, including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), in addition to thermal analysis methods like thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were employed to characterize the copolymers that were synthesized. The metal complexes of the chelating copolymers were prepared by treatment with soluble metal salts of Co(II), Cu(II), and Fe(III), purified, and characterized via IR, PXRD, TGA, and DSC. The semiconducting properties of the chelating polymers and their metal complexes were demonstrated through conductivity measurements taken at room temperature. The conductivity values ranged from 10−3 to 10−6 Ω−1 cm−1. Conclusion The research underscores the significance of the electrical characteristics of chelating copolymers and their metal complexes, particularly focusing on styrene-based binary chelating copolymers, in driving advancements in technology, science, and economic development.

Abstract Background The Egyptian Academy of Bone and Muscle Health in collaboration with the Egyptian College of Pediatric Rheumatology have identified two indicators to ensure optimum health outcomes among children: one is developmentally and nutritionally appropriate healthcare, and the second is the availability of an effective transition of care model from pediatric care to adult health services. Currently, there is no national guidelines on transition of care for children and adolescents with osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease. To close this gap, this work was carried out to develop the Egyptian guidelines for transition model of care. Results The final recommendation included 12 specific domains. These included the following: targeted population, transition age, transition readiness, patient-targeted care, and disease-specific knowledge, patient education, and optimum model for the transition of care, transition referral, management approach, high quality of care, documentation, and recent service approaches as well as standards and quality indicators. All the overarching principles and most voters agreed with the 12 amended recommendations. Conclusion Transitional care is the term used to describe services that seek to bridge this care gap. Based on the best available data and professional judgment, these consensus-based recommendations guide ways to achieve optimal outcomes in transitional care for adolescents with osteoporosis and metabolic bone disorders. Though focussed on transition of care of bone and muscle health, this article can be the bases for transition services for children with other chronic conditions. This could be used as a blueprint for additional national or internationally healthcare transition policies.

In this paper, we investigate a novel class of Hermite-Hadamard inequalities applicable to functions with h-convex absolute derivatives. Graphical representations are provided to bolster the validity of our key findings. Some limiting results of our main findings are discussed as corollaries. Furthermore, we establish error estimates in terms of trapezoid formulae for differences between generalized means.

In this study, we proposed a family of m-point quaternary approximating subdivision schemes, characterized by an explicit formula involving three parameters. One of these parameters served as a shape control parameter, allowing for flexible curve design, while the other two parameters identify different members of the family and determined the smoothness of the resulting limit curves. We conducted a thorough analysis of the proposed schemes, covering their smoothness properties, polynomial generation, and reproduction capabilities. Additionally, we examined the behavior of the Gibbs phenomenon within the family both theoretically and graphically, highlighting the advantages of the proposed schemes in eliminating undesirable oscillations. A comparative study with existing subdivision schemes demonstrated the effectiveness and versatility of our approach. The results indicated that the proposed family offered enhanced smoothness and control, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in computer graphics and geometric modeling.