bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shared leave, happier parent couples? Parental leave and relationship satisfaction in Germany
Authors: Goldacker Kristina , Wilhelm Janna , Wirag Susanne , Dahl Pia , Riotte Tanja , Schober Pia S
Published: January 2022

This study investigates how parental leave policies and uptake may impact heterosexual couples’ relationship satisfaction. It focuses on Germany as an example of a country with a history of familialist policies and long maternal leaves that has recently undergone a significant policy shift. We extend the literature by examining the effects of maternal and paternal leave duration on both partners’ relationship satisfaction while distinguishing between the length of solo, joint and overall leave. The study applies two different methods on data from the Panel Analysis of Intimate Relationships and Family Dynamics (pairfam). First, the study applies fixed-effects regression models ( n = 1046 couples) to investigate the impact of parental leave duration on the change in mothers’ and fathers’ satisfaction over the child’s early years. Second, drawing on exogenous variation as a result of the parental leave reform of 2007, which shortened paid leave for mothers and incentivised fathers’ leave take-up, difference-in-difference analyses ( n = 1403 couples) analyse reform effects on relationship satisfaction of parents with 3-year-old children. The fixed-effects models indicated a consistent negative impact of maternal – especially solo – leave duration on both mothers’ and fathers’ relationship satisfaction. No significant effects of paternal leave length were found. The difference-in-difference approach revealed a positive reform effect on mothers’ relationship satisfaction. In combination, these results suggest that the reduction in maternal leave as part of the reform has had a greater impact on couples’ relationship quality than the relatively short duration of leave taken by most fathers after the introduction of the individual leave entitlement.
Oxidative stress and biochemical indicators in blood of patients addicted to alcohol treated for acute ethylene glycol poisoning
Authors: Sommerfeld-Klatta Karina , Łukasik-Głębocka Magdalena , Zielińska-Psuja Barbara
Published: January 2022

Ethylene glycol (EG), in addition to its neurotoxic and nephrotoxic effects, evokes oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the ethylene glycol on the biochemical indicators and oxidoreductive balance of patients treated for acute poisoning. The total study group consisted of 56 persons including 26 alcoholics who took EG as a substitute for ethyl alcohol in the course of alcohol dependence syndrome and 30 controls. Severity of poisoning, results of acid-base parameters, biochemical, and toxicological tests as well as biomarkers of the oxidative stress in blood were analyzed during the patients’ hospitalization. The key issue was to assess the oxidative stress and biochemical disturbances caused by EG and the type of treatment applied in the course of poisoning. Significant changes in some parameters were found both at time of diagnosis and after treatment initiation (ethanol as an antidote and hemodialysis). The most important differences included the activity of hepatic parameters (aspartate aminotransferase, AST) and oxidative stress markers like catalase (CAT); correlation of the lipid peroxidation products level (TBARS) with urea concentration has been shown. On the last day of the hospitalization, in some cases, the mutual correlation between the evaluated markers were observed, for example, between alanine transaminase (ALT) and glutathione reductase (GR), and urea concentration and glutathione level (GSH/GSSG). The concentration of ions (H+) had a major impact on the oxidoreductive balance, correlating with the elevated GR and GSH/GSSG levels.
Pedometric tools for classification of southwestern Amazonian soils: A quali-quantitative interpretation incorporating visible-near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Tavares Orlando CH , Tavares Tiago R , Pinheiro Junior Carlos R , da Silva Luciélio M , Wadt Paulo GS , Pereira Marcos G
Published: January 2022

The southwestern region of the Amazon has great environmental variability, presents a great complexity of pedoenvironments due to its rich variability of geological and geomorphological environments, as well as for being a transition region with other two Brazilian biomes. In this study, the use of pedometric tools (the Algorithms for Quantitative Pedology (AQP) R package and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy) was evaluated for the characterization of 15 soil profiles in southwestern Amazon. The AQP statistical package—which evaluates the soil in-depth based on slicing functions—indicated a wide range of variation in soil attributes, especially in the superficial horizons. In addition, the results obtained in the similarity analysis corroborated with the description of physical, chemical components and oxide contents in-depth, aiding the classification of soil profiles. The in-depth characterization of visible-near infrared spectra allowed inference of the pedogenetic processes of some profiles, setting precedents for future work aiming to establish analytical strategies for soil classification in southwestern Amazon based on spectral data.
Characterization of continuous Hibiscus sabdariffa fibre reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Kazi Atik Mubarak , DVA Ramasastry
Published: January 2022

The influence of fibre orientation on physical, mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of Hibiscus sabdariffa fibre composites has been studied. The composites with longitudinal (0°), transverse (90°) and inclined (45°) fibre orientation were prepared using the hand layup technique. ASTM standards were used for characterization of continuous Hibiscus sabdariffa fibre composites. The composite with longitudinally placed fibres yields improved mechanical characteristics. The addition of longitudinal (0°) oriented continuous Hibiscus sabdariffa fibres to the epoxy enhances tensile strength by 460%, flexural strength by 160% and impact strength by 603% compared to neat epoxy. The longitudinal (0°) fibre oriented composite offers higher resistance to water absorption and thickness swelling compared to other types of composites. All continuous Hibiscus sabdariffa fibre epoxy composites possess an improved storage modulus than the neat epoxy resin. The glass transition temperature of continuous Hibiscus sabdariffa fibre composites is 8%–31% lower than that of neat epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirm the existence of voids in the matrix, fibre pullout and crack propagation near the fibre bundle, which indicates the stress transfer between fibre and matrix is non-uniform.
What is Good? A Study of Educational Insights in Nicomachean Ethics (Book I, II and III)
Authors: Bardapurkar Abhijeet
Published: January 2022

This work is a study of Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics (Book I, II and III) to characterize the good: the good that features in education and good life. Nicomachean Ethics teaches us that human good is neither in thought/theory, nor in action/practice alone, it is neither an exclusively individual prerogative, nor an outright social preserve. And, human good is impossible without education. The practice of education can neither be isolated nor conceptualized apart from the demands of human life. If education is for human well-being—for human good—the good then is not in action alone, but action in accordance with the excellence (or virtue) 1 of the actor. What unifies reason and action, knowing and doing is learning to be an excellent (or virtuous) person—a person who is well-disposed in her affections and action, whose judgements are true, and decisions correct; and whose intellect and character are in harmony with the human nature.
Gender and Political Participation in the Traditional Political System of the Village: A Study on the Khasi tribe of Mawkynrew village in Meghalaya
Authors: Soanes Rebecca
Published: January 2022

The article is a study on the political participation at the village level by both the male and female members of Mawkynrew village in Meghalaya. Meghalaya is inhabited by three major tribes and the Khasi tribe is one of the three tribes. The political system is still based on a traditional system of political administration at all village and locality levels. This political system allows the people to elect a chief and other members for the village council’s office. Traditionally, only male members are allowed to hold the traditional office of village administration. Therefore, the article will highlight the participation of both the gender groups in the village and how changes have taken place over the years. The paper will also attempt to study the factors or determinants that are influencing gender participation in the political system of the village, particularly that of the women in the village.
Design of variable stiffness fixture for computerized embroidery machine based on shape memory polymer
Authors: Yang Yawen , Tian Lei , Chen Xi , Wang Jiayuan , Zhang Yongyan , Yin Haibin
Published: January 2022

It is a challenge to handle the metal fixture used for cloth clamping in a computerized embroidery machine because of its fixed stiffness. Herein, a prototype that acts as a fixture to provide variable stiffness property is explored by discussing the potential of a thermal-sensitive epoxy resin-based shape memory polymer (SMP). The general model of fixture design is obtained after analyzing the working condition of the metal fixture. The structure of the SMP fixture is designed by discussing the material properties and working requirements of SMP, and a theoretical model is established to deduce the relationship between thickness and stiffness of the fixture. Six SMP fixtures that memorized clamping and opening state were manufactured with different proportions of raw materials. The results show that the designed fixtures have a lighter weight but higher clamping force than the metal fixture at room temperature (RT). It is the first work that demonstrates the potential of the SMP fixture to replace the metal fixture in the computerized embroidery machine and provides inspiration for product design with variable stiffness characteristic in engineering.
Evaluation of the Clinical Impact of Thromboprophylaxis in Patients With COVID-19 Following Hospital Discharge
Authors: Courtney Lindsay A. , Trujillo Toby C. , Saseen Joseph J. , Wright Garth , Palkimas Surabhi
Published: January 2022

Background:

Data are limited regarding the incidence of thromboembolism post-hospital discharge among COVID-19 patients. Guidelines addressing the role of extended thromboprophylaxis for COVID-19 patients are limited and conflicting.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of post-discharge thromboembolic and bleeding events and the role of thromboprophylaxis among COVID-19 patients.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted of hospitalized patients with symptomatic COVID-19 infection who were discharged from a University of Colorado Health (UCHealth) hospital between March 1, 2020, and October 31, 2020. The primary outcome was objectively confirmed thromboembolism within 35 days post-discharge. The main secondary outcome was the incidence of bleeding events within 35 days post-discharge. Outcomes were compared between those who received extended prophylaxis and those who did not.

Results:

A total of 1171 patients met the study criteria. A total of 13 (1.1%) of patients had a documented thromboembolic event and 10 (0.9%) patients had a documented bleeding event within 35 days post-discharge. None of the 132 patients who received extended prophylaxis had a thromboembolic event compared to 13 of 1039 who did not receive extended prophylaxis (0 and 1.3%, respectively; P = .383). The incidence of bleeding was higher among patients who received extended prophylaxis compared to those who did not (3.0% vs 0.6%, P = .019).

Conclusions and Relevance:

These results suggest that post-discharge extended prophylaxis may be beneficial for select COVID-19 patients, while carefully weighing the risk of bleeding. Application of our findings may assist institutions in development of thromboprophylaxis protocols for discharged COVID-19 patients.
Effects of the Ankle Flexion Angle During Anterior Talofibular Ligament Reconstruction on Ankle Kinematics, Laxity, and In Situ Forces of the Reconstructed Graft
Authors: Sakakibara Yuzuru , Teramoto Atsushi , Takagi Tetsuya , Yamakawa Satoshi , Shoji Hiroaki , Okada Yohei , Kobayashi Takuma , Kamiya Tomoaki , Fujimiya Mineko , Fujie Hiromichi , Watanabe Kota , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: January 2022

Background:

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the ankle flexion angle during anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) reconstruction on ankle kinematics, laxity, and in situ force of a graft.

Methods:

Twelve cadaveric ankles were evaluated using a 6–degrees of freedom robotic system to apply passive plantar flexion and dorsiflexion motions and multidirectional loads. A repeated measures experiment was designed using the intact ATFL, transected ATFL, and reconstructed ATFL. During ATFL reconstruction (ATFLR), the graft was fixed at a neutral position (ATFLR 0 degrees), 15 degrees of plantar flexion (ATFLR PF15 degrees), and 30 degrees of plantar flexion (ATFLR PF30 degrees) with a constant initial tension of 10 N. The 3-dimensional path and reconstructed graft tension were simultaneously recorded, and the in situ force of the ATFL and reconstructed grafts were calculated using the principle of superposition.

Results:

The in situ forces of the reconstructed grafts in ATFLR 0 degrees and ATFLR PF 15 degrees were significantly higher than those of intact ankles. The ankle kinematics and laxity produced by ATFLR PF 30 degrees were not significantly different from those of intact ankles. The in situ force on the ATFL was 19.0 N at 30 degrees of plantar flexion. In situ forces of 41.0, 33.7, and 21.9 N were observed at 30 degrees of plantar flexion in ATFLR 0, 15, and 30 degrees, respectively.

Conclusion:

ATFL reconstruction with the peroneus longus (PL) tendon was performed with the graft at 30 degrees of plantar flexion resulted in ankle kinematics, laxity, and in situ forces similar to those of intact ankles. ATFL reconstructions performed with the graft fixed at 0 and 15 degrees of the plantar flexion resulted in higher in situ forces on the reconstructed graft.

Clinical Relevance:

Fixing the ATFL tendon graft at 30 degrees of plantar flexion results in an in situ force closest to that of an intact ankle and avoids the excessive tension on the reconstructed graft.
Memory Binding Test and Its Associations With Hippocampal Volume Across the Cognitive Continuum Preceding Dementia
Authors: Markova Hana , Fendrych Mazancova Adela , Jester Dylan J. , Cechova Katerina , Matuskova Veronika , Nikolai Tomas , Nedelska Zuzana , Uller Miroslav , Andel Ross , Laczó Jan , Hort Jakub , Vyhnalek Martin
Published: January 2022

Innovative memory paradigms have been introduced to capture subtle memory changes in early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We aimed to examine the associations between different indexes of the challenging Memory Binding Test (MBT) and hippocampal volume (HV) in a sample of individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD; n = 50), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) due to AD ( n = 31), and cognitively normal (CN) older adults ( n = 29) recruited from the Czech Brain Aging Study, in contrast to traditional verbal memory tests. Both MBT free and cued recall scores in immediate and delayed recall conditions were associated with lower HV in both SCD and aMCI due to AD, whereas in traditional verbal memory tests only delayed recall scores were associated with lower HV. In SCD, the associations with lower HV in the immediate recall covered specific cued recall indexes only. In conclusion, the MBT is a promising test for detecting subtle hippocampal-associated memory decline during the predementia continuum.
Suppositional Wh-Questions About Perceptions, Conversations, and actions are More Productive than Paired Yes-No Questions when Questioning Maltreated Children
Authors: Henderson Hayden M. , Lundon Georgia M. , Lyon Thomas D.
Published: January 2022

Forensic interviewers are taught to pair yes–no questions with open-ended requests for recall in order to reduce the likelihood that they will be misled by false “yes” responses. However, yes–no questions may elicit false “no” responses. Questioning 112 6- to 11-year-old maltreated children about three innocuous events (outside activities, yesterday, last birthday), this study compared the productivity of paired yes–no questions about perceptions, conversations, and actions involving the hands and mouth (e.g., “Did you say anything?”) with wh-questions (e.g., “What did you say?”). The wh-questions presupposed that children had content to provide, but did not specify that content. Children were twice as likely to deny content and half as likely to provide novel information when interviewers asked them yes–no questions. Younger children were more inclined than older children to deny content and give unelaborated “yes” responses. The results support further research into the potential for suppositional wh-questions to increase child witnesses’ productivity.
The Involvement of Business Elites in the Management of Homelessness: Towards a Privatization of Service Provision for Homeless People?
Authors: Margier Antonin
Published: January 2022

Although the influence of local urban elites on urban planning is well established in urban studies and geography, the ways in which business and property owners take part in the management of homelessness has received far less attention. This article focuses on Portland (OR) in the United States as a means of understanding the motivations that underlie the role of the private sector and its impact on public policies. To this end, I focus on the support by Portland's downtown Business Improvement District of homeless outreach programs, and on the funding of two homeless shelters by business elites / philanthropists. I argue that although public authorities have different views on the actions to be taken to end homelessness, business elites often manage to bring initially-reluctant public authorities to support their projects in what might be termed a forced-march cooperation. I also highlight the versatility of the private sector and business elites’ participation in homelessness management, given that the outreach programs they support and the homeless facilities they fund provide services for the homeless while simultaneously removing them from visible public space. In this sense, the involvement of business and property owners is also a way for them to protect their own interests.
Nephrotic syndrome induced by cetuximab in a patient with metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Korkmaz Mustafa , Hendem Engin , Karakurt Eryılmaz Melek , Demirkıran Aykut , Karaağaç Mustafa , Artaç Mehmet
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Cetuximab, an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody, often cause skin toxicity, most commonly acneiform rash. We present a rare case of glomerulonephritis associated with cetuximab therapy.

Case Report

A 58-year-old male patient recently completed cetuximab-based chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma. He presented with acute renal failure, anasarca edema and nephrotic proteinuria. The amount of protein in the 24-h urine test was over 15.6 grams.

Management & Outcome

The patient showed a dramatic improvement in renal function shortly after terminated of cetuximab therapy without immunosuppressive therapy.

Discussion

Therefore, drugs targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibody were thought to trigger nephrotic syndrome by causing glomerular damage. As a result, physicians using EGFR monoclonal inhibitors should be very careful about renal functions and proteinuria in patients.
Orphans in post-conflict Liberia: Seeking care in fractured communities
Authors: Levey Elizabeth J. , Harris Benjamin L. , Laird Lance D. , Kekulah Isaac , Borba Christina P. C. , Henderson David C. , Becker Anne E.
Published: January 2022

Orphans in post-conflict settings have unique needs that have not been well-characterized. In post-conflict Liberia, maternal orphans are more likely to be without care than paternal orphans. This study examined the experiences of maternal orphans in Liberia, as they attempted to care for themselves and seek care from others, and the barriers they faced. In-depth interviews were conducted with 75 post-conflict Liberian orphans. We performed a secondary narrative analysis of interview transcripts from all maternal or double orphans (n = 17). We identified similar elements across narratives: traumatic loss, disconnection from family and community, and the desire for a savior. Female high-risk orphans were more likely to have formal substitute caregiving arrangements in which they were living with someone who was a relative or had been selected by a relative. Male orphans more commonly lacked arranged substitute care, but this allowed them to form relationships with substitute caregivers of their choosing. Sex also played a role in the provision of caregiving; substitute care was provided by women. Findings highlighted the syndemic relationship between poverty, violence, transactional sex, trauma, and substance use that traps high-risk Liberian orphans. Interventions are needed to improve access to mental health care, sober communities, housing, and education support. The need to integrate these services into indigenous institutions and address barriers related to stigma is explored.
Reflection on peer reviewing as a pedagogical tool in higher education
Authors: Väyrynen Karin , Lutovac Sonja , Kaasila Raimo
Published: January 2022

Previous research has emphasized both the importance of giving and receiving peer feedback for the purpose of active learning, as well as of university students’ engagement in reflection to improve learning outcomes. However, requiring students to explicitly reflect on peer reviewing is an understudied learning activity in higher education that may contribute to the utilization of peer-feedback and promote further learning. In this study, we suggest reflection on peer reviewing as one approach to providing a platform for students to engage in reflective practices and for stimulating active learning in higher education, and to make that learning visible to the educator. We examine 26 undergraduate students’ reflections on peer-review to identify categories of reflection and what students have learnt from the peer reviewing process. Our findings reveal six different categories of reflection suggesting students’ active engagement in learning and pointing to the ways educators can direct and instruct students how to reflect. We discuss how these findings can inform university lecturers in the use of reflection upon peer reviewing as a pedagogical tool in higher education.
Infrequent Identity Signals, Multiple Correspondence, and Detection Risks in Audit Correspondence Studies
Authors: Balfe Catherine , Button Patrick , Penn Mary , Schwegman David J.
Published: January 2022

Audit correspondence studies are field experiments that test for discriminatory behavior in active markets. Researchers measure discrimination by comparing how responsive individuals (“audited units”) are to correspondences from different types of people. This article elaborates on the tradeoffs researchers face between sending audited units only one correspondence and sending them multiple correspondences, especially when including less common identity signals in the correspondences. We argue that when researchers use audit correspondence studies to measure discrimination against individuals that infrequently interact with audited units, they raise the risk that these audited units become aware they are being studied or otherwise act differently. We also argue that sending multiple pieces of correspondence can increase detection risk. We present the result of an audit correspondence study that demonstrates how detection can occur for these reasons, leading to significantly attenuated (biased toward zero) estimates of discrimination.
MicroRNA Expression Profiling in Hydatidiform Mole for the Prediction of Postmolar GTN
Authors: Teerapakpinyo Chinachote , Areeruk Wilasinee , Tantbirojn Patou , Phupong Vorapong , Shuangshoti Shanop , Lertkhachonsuk Ruangsak
Published: January 2022

Objectives: The primary aim of the study was to identify miRNAs that were differentially expressed between complete hydatidiform moles (CHMs) that turned out to be gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) [GTN moles] and CHMs that regressed spontaneously after evacuation [remission moles]. The secondary aim was to study the profiles of miRNA expressions in CHMs. Methods: A case-control study was conducted on GTN moles and remission moles. We quantitatively assessed the expression of 800 human miRNAs from molar tissues using Nanostring nCounter. Results: From a pilot study, 21 miRNAs were significantly downregulated in GTN moles compared to the remission moles. Five of them (miR-566, miR-608, miR-1226-3p, miR-548ar-3p and miR-514a-3p) were downregulated for >4 folds. MiR-608 was selected as a candidate for further analysis on 18 CHMs (9 remission moles and 9 GTN moles) due to its striking association with malignant formation. MiR-608 expression was slightly lower in GTN moles compared to the remission moles, that is, 2.22 folds change [p = 0.063]. Conclusion: We identified 21 miRNAs that were differentially expressed between GTN moles and remission moles suggesting that miRNA profiles can distinguish between the two groups. Although not reaching statistically significant, miR-608 expression was slightly lower in GTN moles compared to remission moles.
Prognostic and Clinicopathologic Significance of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Esophageal Cancer: An Update Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Binfeng , Xiong Fei , Yi Shengzhong , Wang Sheng
Published: January 2022

Background: Esophageal cancer is one of the most common cancers with significant morbidity and mortality. It is important to predict the prognosis of patients. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively assess the prognostic and clinicopathologic significance of NLR in patients with esophageal cancer. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and CNKI. This meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used as the effect estimation to evaluate the prognostic role of NLR. Odds ratio (OR) was used to evaluate the relation between NLR and clinicopathologic characteristics. Results: A total of 8431 patients from 32 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results showed that elevated NLR might predict poor prognosis: The factors considered included overall survival (OS) (HR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.40-1.75; P < .001), cancer-specific survival (CSS) (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.09-1.49; P < .001), progression-free survival (PFS) (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.29-1.72; P < .001), and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR,1.58; 95% CI, 1.27-1.97; P < .001). High NLR was also associated with tumor differentiation, tumor length, tumor invasion depth, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage. No significant association was observed between NLR and metastasis stage (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 0.98-2.98; P = .058). Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis suggest that elevated NLR value might predict poor prognosis (OS, CSS, PFS, and DFS), according to abnormal clinicopathologic parameters.
Novel Use of the Perceval Valve for Prosthetic Aortic Valve Endocarditis Requiring Root Replacement
Authors: Smith Holly N. , Fatehi Hassanabad Ali , Kent William D.T.
Published: January 2022

The surgical management of aortic valve endocarditis can be challenging. Infection with abscess formation can destroy the root and annulus, making it difficult to anchor a valve conduit. In this article, we present a novel and efficient strategy for proximal aortic reconstruction. We used a Dacron tube graft and anchored it proximally with a running suture line deep in the left ventricular outflow tract. The coronary buttons were attached, and a Perceval valve was then deployed inside the neo-root to create a bio-Bentall.
A Reproducible and Effective Technique for Coronary Sinus Injury Repair
Authors: Smith Shane P. , Spear Charlotte R. , Ryan Patrick E. , Stout David M. , Youssef Samuel J. , Hernandez Roland A. , Barnhart Glenn R. , Lehr Eric J.
Published: January 2022

Objective: Coronary sinus injury related to the use of a retrograde cardioplegia catheter is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication with mortality reported as high as 20%. We present a series of iatrogenic coronary sinus injuries as well as an effective method of repair without any ensuing mortality. Methods: There were 3,004 cases that utilized retrograde cardioplegia at our institution from 2007 to 2018. Of these, 15 patients suffered a coronary sinus injury, an incidence of 0.49%. A pericardial roof repair was performed in 14 cases in which autologous pericardium was sutured circumferentially to normal epicardium around the injury with purified bovine serum albumin and glutaraldehyde injected into the newly created space as a sealant. Incidence of perioperative morbidity and mortality, operative time, and length of stay were collected. Results: In our series, there were no intraoperative or perioperative mortalities. Procedure types included coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve replacement and repair, or combined CABG and valve procedures. Median (interquartile range) cross-clamp time was 100 (88 to 131) minutes, cardiopulmonary bypass duration was 133 (114 to 176) minutes, and length of stay was 6 (4 to 8) days. None of the patients returned to the operating room for hemorrhage, and there were no complications associated with the repair of a coronary sinus injury when using the pericardial roof technique. Conclusions: Coronary sinus injuries can result in difficult to manage perioperative bleeding and potentially lethal consequences from cardiac manipulation. Our series supports the pericardial roof technique as an effective solution to a challenging intraoperative complication.
Association between health-related quality of life and menopausal status and symptoms in women living with HIV aged 45–60 years in England: An analysis of the PRIME study
Authors: Okhai Hajra , Dragomir Livia , Pool Erica RM , Sabin Caroline A , Miners Alec , Sherr Lorraine , Haag Katharina , Dhairyawan Rageshri , Vora Nina , Sultan Binta , Gilson Richard , Burns Fiona , Gilleece Yvonne , Jones Rachael , Post Frank , Ross Jonathan , Ustianowski Andrew , Tariq Shema
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the health-related quality of life between mid-life women with HIV and the general population and to investigate the association between health-related quality of life and menopausal (1) status and (2) symptoms among women with HIV.

Methods:

Cross-sectional data of women with HIV aged 45–60 years from the Positive Transitions Through the Menopause Study. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the Euroqol questionnaire with utility scores categorizing health as perfect (score = 1.00), sub-optimal (0.75–0.99) or poor (< 0.75). Scores were compared between Positive Transitions Through the Menopause study participants and women (aged 45–59 years) from the Health Survey for England. Associations between health-related quality of life and menopausal status/symptoms in Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants were assessed using a multivariable two-part regression model, the results of which are combined to produce a single marginal effect.

Results:

In total, 813 women from the Positive Transitions Through the Menopause study were included (median age 49 (interquartile range: 47–53) years); the majority were of Black African ethnicity (72.2%). Overall, 20.9%, 43.7% and 35.3% of women were pre-, peri- and post-menopausal, respectively, and 69.7% experienced mild/moderate/severe menopausal symptoms. Approximately, 40% reported perfect health, 22.1% sub-optimal health and 39.0% poor health, similar to women from the Health Survey for England (perfect health: 36.9%, sub-optimal health: 25.2%, poor health: 37.9%). In multivariable models, we found an association between health-related quality of life and peri-menopausal status (marginal effect: 0.07 (0.02, 0.12)); however, the association with post-menopausal status was attenuated (marginal effect: 0.01 (–0.05, 0.06)). There remained a strong association between lower utility scores and moderate (marginal effect: 0.16 (0.11, 0.20)) and severe (marginal effect: 0.32 (0.27, 0.39)) menopausal symptoms.

Conclusion:

There were no differences in health-related quality of life between women with HIV (Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants) and women from the Health Survey for England dataset. Among Positive Transitions Through the Menopause participants, health-related quality of life was reduced in peri-menopausal women and those with increasingly severe menopausal symptoms. Our findings highlight the importance of proactive assessment of menopausal status and symptoms to optimize health-related quality of life in women living with HIV as they reach mid-life and beyond.
Automatic simulation-based testing of autonomous ships using Gaussian processes and temporal logic
Authors: Torben Tobias Rye , Glomsrud Jon Arne , Pedersen Tom Arne , Utne Ingrid B , Sørensen Asgeir J
Published: January 2022

A methodology for automatic simulation-based testing of control systems for autonomous vessels is proposed. The work is motivated by the need for increased test coverage and formalism in the verification efforts. It aims to achieve this by formulating requirements in the formal logic Signal Temporal Logic (STL). This enables automatic evaluation of simulations against requirements using the STL robustness metric, resulting in a robustness score for requirements satisfaction. Furthermore, the proposed method uses a Gaussian Process (GP) model for estimating robustness scores including levels of uncertainty for untested cases. The GP model is updated by running simulations and observing the resulting robustness, and its estimates are used to automatically guide the test case selection toward cases with low robustness or high uncertainty. The main scientific contribution is the development of an automatic testing method which incrementally runs new simulations until the entire parameter space of the case is covered to the desired confidence level, or until a case which falsifies the requirement is identified. The methodology is demonstrated through a case study, where the test object is a Collision Avoidance (CA) system for a small high-speed vessel. STL requirements for safety distance, mission compliance, and COLREG compliance are developed. The proposed method shows promise, by both achieving verification in feasible time and identifying falsifying behaviors which would be difficult to detect manually or using brute-force methods. An additional contribution of this work is a formalization of COLREG using temporal logic, which appears to be an interesting direction for future work.
Is a small-caliber or large-caliber endoscope more suitable for colonic self-expandable metallic stent placement? A randomized controlled study
Authors: Minoda Yosuke , Ogino Haruei , Sumida Yorinobu , Osoegawa Takashi , Itaba Soichi , Hashimoto Norikazu , Esaki Mitsuru , Kitagawa Yusuke , Yodoe Kentaro , Iboshi Yoichiro , Matsuguchi Takahiro , Tadokoro Mei , Chaen Tomohito , Kubo Hiroaki , Kubokawa Masaru , Harada Naohiko , Nishizima Kenichi , Fujii Hiroyuki , Hata Yoshitaka , Tanaka Yoshimasa , Ihara Eikichi , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

The colonic self-expandable metallic stent (C-SEMS) with a 9-French (Fr) delivery system allows for a small-caliber endoscope (SCE) to be used to treat malignant colonic obstruction. Despite the lack of evidence, the SCE has become popular because it is considered easier to insert than the large-caliber endoscope (LCE). We aimed to determine whether the SCE is more suitable than the LCE for C-SEMS placement.

Methods:

Between July 2018 and November 2019, 50 consecutive patients who were scheduled to undergo C-SEMS for colon obstruction were recruited in this study. Patients were randomized to the SCE or LCE group. The SCE and LCE were used with 9-Fr and 10-Fr delivery systems, respectively. The primary outcome was the total procedure time. Secondary outcomes were the technical success rate, complication rate, clinical success rate, insertion time, guidewire-passage time, stent-deployment time, and colonic obstruction-scoring-system score.

Results:

Forty-five patients (SCE group, n = 22; LCE group, n = 23) were analyzed. The procedure time in the LCE group (median, 20.5 min) was significantly ( p = 0.024) shorter than that in the SCE group (median, 25.1 min). The insertion time in the LCE group (median, 2.0 min) was significantly ( p = 0.0049) shorter than that in the SCE group (median, 6.0 min). A sub-analysis of the procedure difficulties showed that the insertion time in the LCE group (median, 5.0 min) was significantly shorter than that in the SCE group (median, 8.5 min).

Conclusion:

Both LCE and SCE can be used for C-SEMS; however, LCE is more suitable than SCE as it achieved a faster and equally efficacious C-SEMS placement as that of SCE.

Clinical trial registration number:

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN 32748)
Autoimmune colitis and neutropenia in adjuvant anti-PD-1 therapy for malignant melanoma: efficacy of Vedolizumab, a case report
Authors: d’Apolito Maria , Spagnuolo Rocco , Siciliano Maria Anna , Barbieri Vito , Cosco Cristina , Fiorillo Lucia , Cuomo Onofrio , Zuccalà Valeria , Correale Pierpaolo , Pensabene Licia , Rossi Marco , Doldo Patrizia , Tassone Pierfrancesco , Tagliaferri Pierosandro
Published: January 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) represent an important advance in the adjuvant treatment of patients with high-risk melanoma. Although the safety profile of anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) is fairly acceptable, different immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are described. Herein we report for the first time a notably multidisciplinary combined approach on a malignant melanoma (MM) patient treated with anti-PD-1 antibody in adjuvant setting. In this novel approach, corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis (IMC) was effectively treated with Vedolizumab, a selective blockade of the α4β7 integrin and corticosteroids were successfully administered for autoimmune neutropenia. Notably, our patient also express HLA-B*35, a potential biomarker for predicting a genetic basis of autoimmune susceptibility. Our experience offers a possible future perspective about the use of Vedolizumab together with immunotherapy in a strategic early approach for high-risk patients genotyped for HLA.
Double gallbladder—intraoperative finding at laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Literature review
Authors: Subasinghe Duminda , Guruge Malith Hasintha , Sivaganesh Sivasuriya
Published: January 2022

Duplication of the gallbladder is a rare entity. It is often appreciated at surgery and has a higher propensity for complications and conversion to open surgery. We report a case of laparoscopic recognition and removal of a duplicated gallbladder opening into the bile duct through separate cystic ducts, in a young male presenting with biliary colics. Both cystic ducts were clipped and divided, and cholecystectomy completed laparoscopically. Although uncommon, awareness of this anomaly may contribute to minimising iatrogenic bile duct injuries.
Demons syndrome with pericardial effusion followed by intensive care unit-acquired weakness: A case report and literature review
Authors: Obata Eri , Kai Kentaro , Aso Saki , Tsukamoto Nao , Hanaoka Takuya , Nabeta Yusuke , Kawano Yasushi
Published: January 2022

Demons syndrome is defined by hydrothorax and ascites associated with a benign genital tumor that resolves after resection of the tumor. However, Demons syndrome with pericardial effusion has never been reported. Intensive care unit–acquired weakness is a neurological sequela to sepsis/systemic inflammatory response syndrome, or multi-organ failure. A 47-year-old, nulligravid, Japanese woman, was transferred to our hospital for refractory heart failure and a ruptured ovarian tumor. She had an 11-cm left ovarian tumor with ascites, hydrothorax, and pericardial effusion; she was intubated for pulmonary hypertension and admitted to the intensive care unit for septic shock. Four days later, a left salpingo-oophorectomy was performed for Demons syndrome with pericardial effusion. The histological diagnosis indicated a serous cystadenoma with fibrotic changes. Following surgery, ventilator weaning was delayed due to intensive care unit–acquired weakness. The association between Demons syndrome and pericardial effusion should be recognized to ensure early treatment and for preventing sequalae from the disease.
Factors Influencing Public Trust in the Police in South Korea: Focus on Instrumental, Expressive, and Normative Models
Authors: Lim Chang-Ho , Kwak Dae-Hoon
Published: January 2022

Abundant studies examining public trust in the police have applied several theoretical models including instrumental, expressive, or normative models. However, few studies have attempted to simultaneously assess the empirical validity of these theoretical models of public trust in the police. In addition, there has been little research on public trust in police in East Asia; most of the empirical research on this topic has been explored in Western societies. To extend the knowledge of public trust in the police, the current study investigated to what extent factors drawn from three models influence public trust in the police using a sample of South Korean citizens. The results show that, consistent with prior research, police effectiveness, procedural justice, and social cohesion had significant, positive effects on public trust in the police. Police effectiveness was the most influential factor followed by procedural justice and social cohesion. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Do Personality Traits Influence the Association Between Depression and Dementia in Old Age?
Authors: Adaralegbe Adeleye A. , Egbuchiem Henry , Adeoti Oluwatomi , Abbasi Khuzeman , Ezeani Esther , Adaralegbe Ngozi Jane-Frances , Babarinde Abdulraheem Olaide , Boms Maureen , Nzeako Chidiebube , Ayeni Olumide
Published: January 2022

Depression and personality traits are independent predictors of dementia or cognitive impairment. Despite the well-established relationship between these two psychosocial factors and dementia, no research has been documented on how personality traits can influence dementia in older adults exhibiting depressive symptoms. This study explores the influence of personality traits on the association between change in depression and dementia in old age. A population-based longitudinal cohort study involving two waves of data collected 5 years apart, containing 2210 American older adults, from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project to explore if personality traits influence how change in depression predicts the development of dementia. We assessed these relationships while adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. Change in depression increased the likelihood of dementia at T2 by 4.2% (AOR = 1.04, p = 0.019) in the co-variate adjusted model. Personality traits, overall, did not influence how depression predicts the development of dementia. However, agreeableness individually nullified the effect of depression on the development of dementia, whereas extraversion was the only personality trait that significantly predicted dementia. Prosocial behaviors should be promoted in old age as these appear to be protective. In addition, early life education and a strong social support can keep the depression–dementia spectrum at bay in old age.
Diabetes Self-Care Behaviors and Barriers to Clinical Care During COVID-19 Pandemic for Marshallese Adults
Authors: Purvis Rachel S. , Moore Ramey A. , Ayers Britni L. , Felix Holly C. , Riklon Sheldon , Andersen Jennifer A. , Hudson Jonell S. , O’Connor Gail , Kelen Meetu , Heely-Rolston Lee-Ann Noelani , Shields Xochitl , McElfish Pearl A.
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to explore experiences of Marshallese adults related to diabetes self-care behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

A qualitative descriptive design was utilized to understand participants’ diabetes self-care behaviors during the pandemic. Nine focus groups with 53 participants were held via videoconference and conducted in English, Marshallese, or a mixture of both languages. A priori codes based on diabetes self-care behaviors provided a framework for analyzing and summarizing participant experiences.

Results:

Both increases and decreases in healthy eating and exercise were described, with improvements in health behaviors attributed to health education messaging via social media. Participants reported increased stress and difficulty monitoring and managing glucose. Difficulty obtaining medication and difficulty seeing their health care provider regularly was reported and attributed to health care provider availability and lack of insurance due to job loss.

Conclusions:

The study provides significant insight into the reach of health education campaigns via social media and provides important information about the reasons for delays in care, which extend beyond fear of contracting COVID-19 to structural issues.
Arthroscopic Patellar Tendon Debridement and Distal Pole Osteoplasty for Recalcitrant Patellar Tendinopathy
Authors: Amirhekmat Arya , Stepanyan Hayk , Callan Kylie , Williams Riley , Wang Dean
Published: January 2022

Background:

Chronic patellar tendinosis is an overuse injury of the patellar tendon that commonly afflicts jumping athletes.

Indications:

For patients with refractory symptoms that do not respond to extensive physical therapy and rest, surgical management may be considered. Although both open and arthroscopic treatments have been described, arthroscopic treatment allows for more direct access to the diseased dorsal portion of the tendon and allows for faster return to activities and sport.

Technique Description:

Arthroscopic treatment involves debridement of the diseased portion of the patella tendon and osteoplasty of the distal pole of the patella. The infrapatellar fat pad is first debrided using an arthroscopic shaver and radiofrequency ablation device to the level of the dorsal surface of the patellar tendon. Under direct arthroscopic visualization and corresponding to the location of edema noted on the magnetic resonance image, the diseased portion of the patellar tendon is gently debrided with an arthroscopic shaver. Next, an osteoplasty of the distal pole of the patella is performed to facilitate bleeding and healing of the diseased tendon as well as eliminate any mechanical impingement. Any calcifications within the enthesis can be removed using an arthroscopic biter and resector. An arthroscopic resector is then used to decorticate and smoothen the distal pole of the patella to the level of healthy, bleeding cancellous bone.

Results:

Significant improvements in pain and function have been reported with arthroscopic treatment for chronic patellar tendinosis. Patients can expect a 90% return to sport rate following the procedure, with return to preinjury function as soon as 3 to 5 months. This procedure is well tolerated with minimal complications reported.

Discussion:

Arthroscopic patellar tendon debridement and distal pole osteoplasty can be used to treat chronic patellar tendinosis refractory to nonoperative treatment. Improvements in pain and function have been reported with this technique, along with a faster return to sport compared with traditional open techniques.