bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rationale and Trial Protocol for a Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial to assess the
Impact of a Concomitant Crural Repair during Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Patients with a
Lax Gastroesophageal Junction without Frank Hiatal Hernia (REPAIR trial protocol)
Authors: Chue Koy Min , Toh Bin Chet , Ong Lester Wei Lin , Kariyawasam Gamage Manisha , Wong Wai Keong , Lim Chin Hong , Tan Jeremy Tian Hui , Yeung Baldwin Po Man
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is associated with postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and erosive esophagitis (EE). The role of crural repair during LSG is still controversial. The preoperative laxity of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ), graded by the Hill’s classification, is more predictive for postoperative GERD and EE after LSG than the presence of a hiatal hernia seen on endoscopy. Thus, the authors hypothesize that a concomitant crural repair in a specific subgroup of patients with a lax GEJ (Hill’s III) may reduce the incidence of postoperative GERD and EE.

Methods:
A double-blinded, randomized controlled trial of patients with Hill’s III GEJ undergoing LSG will be randomized to a concomitant crural repair (experimental) versus LSG alone (control). Primary outcome measures will be presence of EE at 1-year. Secondary outcome measures will include proton pump inhibitor use, postoperative complications, operative time, blood loss, quality of life, GERD and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusion:
Conflicting crural repair results may be explained by differences in preoperative GEJ laxity. Patients with a frank hiatal hernia and patulous GEJ (Hill’s IV) have a very high, while patients with an apposed GEJ (Hill’s I, Hill’s II) have a low incidence of postoperative GERD and EE respectively. Thus, the authors hypothesize that patients with a lax GEJ without frank hiatal hernia (Hill’s III), might benefit from a crural repair. This study results can potentially highlight the clinical importance of preoperative endoscopic evaluation of the GEJ in all patients planned for LSG, to determine which subgroup patients may benefit from a crural repair. (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05330910, Registered 15-April-2022).
Aerobic Exercise Attenuates Pressure Overload–Induced Myocardial Remodeling and Myocardial Inflammation via Upregulating miR-574-3p in Mice
Authors: Chen Qiao-Ying , Jiang Yi-Na , Guan Xuan , Ren Fang-Fang , Wu Shu-Jie , Chu Mao-Ping , Wu Lian-Pin , Lai Teng-Fang , Li Lei
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Exercise training can promote cardiac rehabilitation, thereby reducing cardiovascular disease mortality and hospitalization rates. MicroRNAs (miRs) are closely related to heart disease, among which miR-574-3p plays an important role in myocardial remodeling, but its role in exercise-mediated cardioprotection is still unclear.

METHODS:

A mouse myocardial hypertrophy model was established by transverse aortic coarctation, and a 4-week swimming exercise training was performed 1 week after the operation. After swimming training, echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function in mice, and histopathologic staining was used to detect cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and cardiac inflammation. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expression levels of miR-574-3p and cardiac hypertrophy markers. Western blotting detected the IL-6 (interleukin-6)/JAK/STAT inflammatory signaling pathway.

RESULTS:

Echocardiography and histochemical staining found that aerobic exercise significantly improved pressure overload–induced myocardial hypertrophy (n=6), myocardial interstitial fibrosis (n=6), and cardiac inflammation (n=6). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction detection showed that aerobic exercise upregulated the expression level of miR-574-3p (n=6). After specific knockdown of miR-574-3p in mouse hearts with adeno-associated virus 9 using cardiac troponin T promoter, we found that the protective effect of exercise training on the heart was significantly reversed. Echocardiography and histopathologic staining showed that inhibiting the expression of miR-574-3p could partially block the effects of aerobic exercise on cardiac function (n=6), cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area (n=6), and myocardial fibrosis (n=6). Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining showed that the inhibitory effects of aerobic exercise on the IL-6/JAK/STAT pathway and cardiac inflammation were partially abolished after miR-574-3p knockdown. Furthermore, we also found that miR-574-3p exerts cardioprotective effects in cardiomyocytes by targeting IL-6 (n=3).

CONCLUSIONS:

Aerobic exercise protects cardiac hypertrophy and inflammation induced by pressure overload by upregulating miR-574-3p and inhibiting the IL-6/JAK/STAT pathway.
Pregnancy History at 40 Years of Age as a Marker of Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Kvalvik Liv G. , Skjærven Rolv , Sulo Gerhard , Singh Aditi , Harmon Quaker E. , Wilcox Allen J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Individual pregnancy complications are associated with increased maternal risk of cardiovascular disease. We assessed the link between a woman's total pregnancy history at 40 years of age and her relative risk of dying from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Methods and Results

This population‐based prospective study combined several Norwegian registries covering the period 1967 to 2020. We identified 854 442 women born after 1944 or registered with a pregnancy in 1967 or later, and surviving to 40 years of age. The main outcome was the time to ASCVD mortality through age 69 years. The exposure was a woman's number of recorded pregnancies (0, 1, 2, 3, or 4) and the number of those with complications (preterm delivery <35 gestational weeks, preeclampsia, placental abruption, perinatal death, and term or near‐term birth weight <2700 g). Cox models provided estimates of hazard ratios across exposure categories. The group with the lowest ASCVD mortality was that with 3 pregnancies and no complications, which served as the reference group. Among women reaching 40 years of age, risk of ASCVD mortality through 69 years of age increased with the number of complicated pregnancies in a strong dose–response fashion, reaching 23‐fold increased risk (95% CI, 10–51) for women with 4 complicated pregnancies. Based on pregnancy history alone, 19% of women at 40 years of age (including nulliparous women) had an increased ASCVD mortality risk in the range of 2.5‐ to 5‐fold.

Conclusions

Pregnancy history at 40 years of age is strongly associated with ASCVD mortality. Further research should explore how much pregnancy history at 40 years of age adds to established cardiovascular disease risk factors in predicting cardiovascular disease mortality.
Expecting the Unexpected: Infants Use Others’ Surprise to Revise Their Own Expectations
Authors: Wu Yang , Merrick Megan , Gweon Hyowon
Published: February 2024

Human infants show systematic responses to events that violate their expectations. Can they also revise these expectations based on others’ expressions of surprise? Here we ask whether infants (N = 156, mean = 15.2 months, range: 12.0–18.0 months) can use an experimenter’s expression of surprise to revise their own expectations about statistically probable vs. improbable events. An experimenter sampled a ball from a box of red and white balls and briefly displayed either a surprised or an unsurprised expression at the outcome before revealing it to the infant. Following an unsurprised expression, the results were consistent with prior work; infants looked longer at a statistically improbable outcome than a probable outcome. Following a surprised expression, however, this standard pattern disappeared or was even reversed. These results suggest that even before infants can observe the unexpected events themselves, they can use others’ surprise to expect the unexpected. Starting early in life, human learners can leverage social information that signals others’ prediction error to update their own predictions.
Time-traveling through fossil planthopper tegmina in the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras (Insecta: Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha)
Authors: BUCHER MANON , GIGNOUX GODEFROI , SZWEDO JACEK , BOURGOIN THIERRY
Published: February 2024

This study presents a comprehensive and illustrated catalogue of the forewing venation of the Paleo- and Mesozoic Hemiptera planthoppers. It compiles fragmented information dispersed across various publications, ensuring a uniform interpretation of tegmina venation for fossil taxa. Taxa are presented by family and each species is documented with its stratigraphic age, and tegmina are redrawn from their original illustrations and reinterpreted with relevant comments when necessary. This catalogue aims to be a decisive tool for research into the taxonomy and phylogeny of the group by providing foundational data for comparative analyses of forewing patterns in Fulgoromorpha, as it represents a valuable shared dataset for both fossil and extant taxa. Yanducixius is formally placed in Lalacidae.
A new fossil genus near Meghyperus Loew from Baltic amber (Diptera: Atelestidae)
Authors: SINCLAIR BRADLEY J. , STARK ANDREAS , HOFFEINS CHRISTEL , SOSZYŃSKA AGNIESZKA
Published: February 2024

The Atelestidae are a small family of empidoid flies (Diptera: Empidoidea), including 15 recent species in five genera (Sinclair & Grimaldi, 2020). In contrast, they have a rather high fossil diversity (Table 1), with 28 species in nine genera. These fossil taxa are almost entirely from Cretaceous ambers (Canadian, Lebanese, Myanmar, New Jersey, Spanish), and prior to this study only a single described species from Baltic amber (Nemedina eocenica Sinclair & Arnaud, 2001) was known. The extant species are widespread, with two Afrotropical, three Neotropical, two Nearctic and eight Palaearctic species. This family is recognized within the Empidoidea on the basis of their well-developed anal lobe of the wing, distinct alula, R4+5 unforked, M1+2 usually unforked or forked beyond cell dm, cell cua long, at least as long as cell bm, female tergite 10 absent, male terminalia symmetrical and unrotated, with elongate gonocoxal apodemes and shortened hypandrium (Chvála, 1983; Grimaldi & Cumming, 1999; Sinclair & Cumming, 2006).
First record of insects from the oldest and older Dryas of Altai (Russia). Coleoptera assemblages from Lebed River
Authors: GURINA ANNA A. , DUDKO ROMAN Yu. , MIKHAILOV YURI E. , PROKIN ALEXANDER A. , SOLODOVNIKOV ALEXEY Yu. , ZINOVYEV EVGENII V. , LEGALOV ANDREI A.
Published: February 2024

Subfossil remains of insects found in the Lebed site (52.25220°N, 87.15692°E) located on the Lebed River, Altai Republic are recorded. The calibrated radiocarbon dates for two layers of these deposits were 16,461–17,056 cal BP, and 13,520–14,077 cal BP, which correspond to the oldest and older Dryas (Late Pleistocene). Insect assemblages of these deposits are mainly represented by Coleoptera, which are noteworthy there for high taxonomic and ecological diversity and include several endemic and relic species. At least 120 beetle species from 17 families have been found altogether, of them, 37 species are recorded for the Pleistocene deposits of Western Siberia for the first time. Three families, Carabidae, Staphylinidae and Curculionidae are most abundantly represented in the examined Lebed site. Ecologically, this beetle assemblage is dominated by species that are currently confined to the taiga belt and alpine meadows of the Altai Mountains; aquatic and near-water species are also well represented. The studied assemblages are rather different from the previously studied Pleistocene insect fauna in the south of the West Siberian Plain. The taxonomic and ecological compositions of the beetle fauna of Lebed site suggest its existence under humid palaeoclimate that was significantly colder than modern climate in this area.
Promotion of Medical Tourism in India: A Discussion Paper
Authors: Barnwal Anima
Published: February 2024

Medical tourism has been a rising service industry across the world for the last two decades. This paper outlines the theoretical perspective that governs the study of medical tourism, analyses the development of the sector in India and puts forth suggestions on how to promote further growth of medical tourism in the country. The paper proposes that the observed clustering of medical facilities in particular cities in India can lend itself to the development of health cities, which could have smart infrastructure geared towards the provision of world-standard medical care. The health cities could allow all stakeholders of the industry to come together and serve as generators of revenues that can be ploughed back into public healthcare provision.
Progressive fatigue damage modeling of laminated composites using a novel combined fatigue life model
Authors: Khatami-Ghazvini M.R , Haghighi-Yazdi M , Shokrieh M.M
Published: February 2024

The progressive fatigue damage (PFD) model is a comprehensive method to simulate the fatigue damage behavior of laminated composites under multiaxial cyclic stress. The generalized material property degradation (GMD) technique is a component of the PFD model. Also, the fatigue life modeling of a UD ply under a uniaxial state of stress is a subcomponent of the GMD technique. The present article compares and evaluates the results achieved by using different fatigue life models within the GMD technique. For this purpose, three commonly used fatigue life models (the normalized fatigue life model, the Luders fatigue life model, and the unified fatigue life model) were considered. Based on the capabilities of these models in predicting the fatigue life of unidirectional plies, a combined fatigue life model is developed and integrated into the progressive fatigue damage model. The results demonstrate that using the combined fatigue life model improves the prediction accuracy of the PFD model.
Environmental racism, segregation and discrimination: Gypsy and Traveller sites in Great Britain
Authors: Bloch Alice , Quarmby Katharine
Published: February 2024

This article focusses on Gypsy and Traveller communities who live on local authority managed sites around Great Britain. The subject of sites has come to the fore in the last couple of years, as the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 criminalised roadside living and therefore nomadic ways of life. Using the concept of environmental racism, the article explores the proximity of sites to environmental hazards including main roads, sewage works, industry and refuse and recycling centres. The mapping of all Gypsy and Traveller sites in England, Scotland and Wales - permanent sites (291) and transit sites (60) - shows that a sizeable proportion of sites present a risk to residents’ health due to their geographical proximity to pollutants and that many are infested with vermin and flies and separated from settled communities which can result in isolation and exclusion. Case studies of Gypsy and Traveller sites shows that the location of sites is not just a historical legacy of racism as new sites are being placed in polluted and isolated areas. Sites are locally contested and racialised language and stereotypes are used to try and stop sites being placed in certain areas. Local authority planning departments are aware of the unsuitability of some site locations and their potential risk to health. However, local opposition and a homelessness crisis within the communities can leave Gypsy and Traveller people with little or no choice about site locations which can be in places that are polluted, on the margins and away from settled communities.
What's a Little Sarcasm Between Friends: Exploring the Sarcastic Tone of Voice
Authors: Caucci Gina M. , Kreuz Roger J. , Buder Eugene H.
Published: February 2024

Tone of voice has been characterized as a cue to sarcasm. However, researchers have found conflicting evidence regarding the acoustic properties of the sarcastic tone of voice and what social factors may affect their prevalence. The current project was designed to assess whether there is a sarcastic tone of voice employed in naturalistic conversation and if it varies as a function of shared common ground. Participants were recorded in a conversational setting while engaged in tasks designed to elicit sarcasm. Results showed that spontaneous sarcastic statements had more varied pitch, lower mean amplitude, and less varied amplitude, and were spoken more slowly than literal statements that were matched by syllables and stress. In addition, friends marked their sarcasm to a greater degree compared to strangers with regard to mean F0, mean amplitude, and amplitude variability.
Perfusion education and training in Europe anno 2023
Authors: Debeuckelaere Gerdy , Klüß Christian , Ruck Katja , Nagaraj Naveen G , Brajlović Ermin , Kjellberg Gunilla , Talmaciu Cristian , Lenart Zvonko , Muraskauskaite Monika , Ristić Nemanja , Nyeng Camilla , Mintzaridis Konstantinos , Devolder Emmanuel , Simeonov Radoslav , Canavan Colin , Kmetovski Stefan , Sari Tamer , Krumposova Katerina , Mata Maria Teresa , Crnković Luka , Muscat Jeffrey , Sikora Normunds , Campbell John , Rantanen Markku , Figueira Inês , Kruusat Rein , Frédéric Joël , Sudakevych Serhii , Savović Ratko , Jelonek Andrzej , van Deventer San-Mari van Delft – , Macera Mascitelli Maria Erminia
Published: February 2024

Background: In the absence of uniform European regulations, there have been many differences in the training of perfusionists across Europe. Furthermore, there has been no uniform or single European accreditation of the profession. One of the objectives of The European Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (EBCP) is to standardise and monitor training of perfusionists across Europe whilst offering support in accordance with national regulations. This goal is particularly imminent as there have been numerous newly founded National perfusion societies, particularly from Eastern European countries, which are now established members of EBCP.

Purpose: In this article, we provide an updated overview or ‘snapshot’ of current European perfusion training programs that were accessible in 2022. Nationally acquired data refers to 2022 unless stated otherwise. The last overview of Perfusion education in Europe was reported over 15 years ago including 20 countries.

Research Design: For this report thirty-two national EBCP delegates plus representatives from Austria were contacted at the beginning of 2023 to complete a pro forma questionnaire about their national perfusion training programmes. The data has been summarized in this article and five additional derived parameters were calculated.

Results: We received responses from 31 countries, providing specific national training characteristics which are summarized, listed and benchmarked by country in this article.

Conclusion: There have been several national and supranational initiatives towards the recognition of perfusion as a profession in Europe, however so far without success for the majority of countries. For this reason, it remains essential for EBCP, as the only European professional perfusionist body, to define education standards and competencies for perfusionists and to monitor training by accreditation of dedicated perfusion schools across Europe.
Stereotactic Awake Basal Ganglia Electrophysiological Recording and Stimulation (SABERS): A Novel Staged Procedure for Personalized Targeting of Deep Brain Stimulation in Pediatric Movement and Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Liker Mark A. , Sanger Terence D. , MacLean Jennifer A. , Nataraj Jaya , Arguelles Enrique , Krieger Mark , Robison Aaron , Olaya Joffre
Published: February 2024

Selection of targets for deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been based on clinical experience, but inconsistent and unpredictable outcomes have limited its use in patients with heterogeneous or rare disorders. In this large case series, a novel staged procedure for neurophysiological assessment from 8 to 12 temporary depth electrodes is used to select targets for neuromodulation that are tailored to each patient's functional needs. Thirty children and young adults underwent deep brain stimulation target evaluation with the new procedure: Stereotactic Awake Basal ganglia Electrophysiological Recording and Stimulation (SABERS). Testing is performed in an inpatient neuromodulation monitoring unit over 5-7 days, and results guide the decision to proceed and the choice of targets for permanent deep brain stimulation implantation. Results were evaluated 3-6 months postoperatively with the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale and the Barry-Albright Dystonia Scale. Stereotactic Awake Basal ganglia Electrophysiological Recording and Stimulation testing allowed modulation to be tailored to specific neurologic deficits in a heterogeneous population, including subjects with primary dystonia, secondary dystonia, and Tourette syndrome. All but one subject were implanted with 4 permanent deep brain stimulation leads. Results showed significant improvement on both scales at postoperative follow-up. No significant adverse events occurred. Use of the Stereotactic Awake Basal ganglia Electrophysiological Recording and Stimulation protocol with evaluation in the neuromodulation monitoring unit is feasible and results in significant patient benefit compared with previously published results in these populations. This new technique supports a significant expansion of functional neurosurgery to predict effective stimulation targets in a wide range of disorders of brain function, including those for which the optimal target is not yet known.
An assessment on the applicability of selection and acquisition procedures at Unguja Public Library - Zanzibar
Authors: Haji Juma Abeid , Wema Evans F
Published: February 2024

This study assessed the applicability of selection and acquisition procedures at Unguja Public Library in Zanzibar. The objectives of the study were to establish library material selection and acquisition procedures at Unguja Public Library; assess library users’ views on the relevance of library collections at Unguja Public Library; and identify challenges that selection and acquisition of library materials face at Unguja Public Library. A total of two hundred and twenty-five (225) respondents participated in this study. These consisted of conveniently selected two hundred and fifteen (215) library patrons and seven (10) library core staff. Questionnaire, interview, as well as obtrusive observation methods were used to collect data for the study. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS and Microsoft excel to generate frequency and percentages, presented in form of tables and figures; while qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The study’s key findings reveal that selection and acquisition procedures are not strictly applied and adhered to at Unguja Public Library. The results have also revealed that library users are not involved in the selection process. Finally, the study recommends a close working collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training in Zanzibar and Unguja Public Library Management to improve the quality of selection and acquisition procedures at the Library so as to build a balanced library collection that meets users’ needs.
Effects of health education on screening rate of first-degree relatives of cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kang Jiaxun , Wang Shanshan , Yi Jingna , Zhang Qiushi
Published: February 2024

Objective

To synthesize the effects of educational intervention on the screening rate of first-degree relatives of cancer patients.

Methods

A total of eight Chinese and English databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Medline and China Biology Medicine disc) from the time of library establishment to June 2023, for randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of educational intervention on screening rate of first-degree relatives of cancer patients. Two researchers independently screened and evaluated the quality of studies. RevMan 5.3 software was used to calculate the pooled effect size.

Results

Thirteen studies involving 5628 participants were chosen to include in the meta-analysis. The results revealed that health education can increase screening rate of first-degree relatives of cancer patients (RR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.16–1.65, P = 0.0002). The effect shown after short-term follow-up (≤6 months) was insignificant in terms of improving screening rate (RR = 1.46, 95% CI = 0.94–2.26, P = 0.09), but after long-term follow-up (＞6 months) the improvement was greater (RR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.13–1.65, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Health education is effective in increasing the screening rate of first-degree relatives of cancer patients. The effect is more evident after long-term than short-term follow-up.
The Effects of Patient-Centered Communication on Patient Engagement, Health-Related Quality of Life, Service Quality Perception and Patient Satisfaction in Patients with Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study in Türkiye
Authors: Çakmak Cuma , Uğurluoğlu Özgür
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Patient-centered communication is a type of communication that takes place between the provider and the patient.

Objectives

It is aimed to reveal the effects of patient-centered communication on patient engagement, health-related quality of life, perception of service quality and patient satisfaction.

Method

The study was conducted by applying multiple regression analysis to the data obtained from 312 patients with cancer treated in a training and research hospital affiliated to the Ministry of Health in Diyarbakır, Türkiye.

Results

More than half of the patients were female and had stage 4 cancer. Different types of cancer were detected (breast cancer, cancer of the digestive organs, lymphatic and hematopoietic cancer, cancer of the genital organs, cancer of the respiratory organs, etc.). It can be stated that the average values obtained by patients from patient-centered communication and its sub-dimensions are high. There are positive, moderate and low and significant relationships between the overall patient-centered communication and patient engagement, patient satisfaction, service quality perception and quality of life. It was statistically revealed that patient-centered communication positively affected patient engagement, health-related quality of life, service quality perception, and patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Patient-centered communication positively affects various short and medium-term health outcomes and this study offers suggestions for improving patient-provider communication.
Dynamic analysis of the inclined cable under wind-induced vibration through harmonic discretization
Authors: Cong Yunyue , Kang Houjun , Guo Tieding , Su Xiaoyang
Published: February 2024

This paper intends to reveal the dynamic mechanism of the inclined cable under wind-induced vibration based on a multi-mode reduced model. The discrete harmonic superposition method is applied to simulate the broadband wind-induced loads. Galerkin’s method and the method of multiple scales are utilized to derive the modulation equations. The asymmetrical profile of inclined cable due to the inclination is discussed, of which results demonstrate the parabola assumption of the cable’s initial static profile is rational only when its sag-to-span ratio is small enough. Moreover, the drift phenomena and new resonance peak will appear with the variation of frequency and amplitude of the multi-frequency excitations, which indicates the multi-mode resonance mechanism.
Pigment epithelial detachment composition indices in central serous chorioretinopathy as a biomarker for disease activity: A computational methodology and 1 year outcomes
Authors: Yadav Sanya , Ong Joshua , Zarnegar Arman , Driban Matthew , Selvam Amrish , Arora Supriya , Singh Sumit Randhir , Chhablani Jay
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Investigation of pigment epithelial detachment (PED) characteristics in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is underrepresented in the literature. We present a novel computational approach to quantify PED composition indices (PEDCI) in CSCR and track changes over time.

Methods

34 eyes with active CSCR were analyzed quarterly over a 1-year period. Cases were categorized into acute and chronic CSCR depending on a symptom duration of less than 3 months or more than 3 months respectively. PED, retinal and choroidal dimensions were manually measured, and interval changes were compared using repeated measures of variance ANOVA. PED composition analysis involved manual segmentation followed by automated sub segmentation of PED areas to identify serous, neovascular and fibrous tissues. PEDCI for each component was compared among cases of acute and chronic CSCR.

Results

CMT and NSD-h decreased by 65.2 µm ( p = 0.01), and 86.5 µm ( p < 0.01) respectively at 12 months. At baseline, 7/17 acute CSCR eyes and 8/15 chronic CSCR eyes had a concomitant PED; acute cases had both serous and neovascular components (PEDCI-S: 16.95%, PEDCI-N: 40.3%), whereas chronic cases only had a neovascular component (PEDCI-S: 0%, PEDCI-N: 30.5%). At 12-month follow-up, 6/7 of acute CSCR group and 6/8 chronic CSCR group had a concomitant PED; PEDCI-S was largest for acute CSCR (53.4%) and PEDCI-N was largest for chronic CSCR (46.7%).

Conclusion

We identify a novel biomarker PEDCI to differentiate acute and chronic CSCR with higher PEDCI-S in acute CSCR, and higher PEDCI-N in chronic CSCR.
Who to marry? Norwegian-Tamil young adults reflecting on their conditions for partner choice. A narrative approach to intergenerational change processes
Authors: Thilliampalam Aparna Malin , Johannesen Berit Overå
Published: February 2024

Family and generational issues are central to research and debate on migration and culture. In this article we combine perspectives on partner choice and marriage with a narrative approach to intergenerational dynamics. More specifically we have invited young adult Norwegian-Tamils to gather in small groups with same gender peers and reflect on topics of partner choice and marriage. The data resulting from these discussions was contextualized by way of Cigdem Kagitcibasi’s theory of family change and analyzed based on Jerome Bruner’s perspectives on narrative and semiosis. Our results show how narrative analysis can capture and elucidate change processes that occur from one generation to the next. Narrative networks develop around contextualized “problems” and new generations interpret and reproduce both the context and the problems in new ways. Kagitcibasi argues that collectivist family patterns will prevail in the form of psychological interdependence when families migrate from traditional to Western socioeconomic contexts. The tendencies in our data both support and nuance this claim.
The digitally manipulated family photograph: MyHeritage’s ‘Deep Nostalgia’, and the extended temporality of the photographic image
Authors: Conaghan Fern
Published: February 2024

This article examines how the digitally manipulated family photograph functions as a means of understanding the temporal instability of the use and interpretations of photographic images. It begins by taking a close look at scholarly debates on how ‘credible’ the documentary value of a still photograph is, as well as how it is able to emotionally resonate with spectators. From this discussion, it becomes important to look at a key example of how an image can produce an emotional effect on a viewer; in this case, photographs of individuals’ deceased family members. While exploring how this allows the spectator to reconnect with their relatives, it is also crucial to acknowledge that readings of images like these are often determined by reductive interpretations of their stillness. As the consideration of photographs as ‘documents’ has been contested for an extensive amount of time, it is illuminating to turn to the properties of digital photography by inspecting the photo manipulation feature ‘Deep Nostalgia’ on the MyHeritage app that circulated around TikTok in 2021. I look at a YouTube compilation of people reacting to seeing photographs of their family manipulated in a way that gives the impression that they are moving and emoting, alongside discussions about this in recent pop culture articles. By taking a Barthesian reading of the extended temporality of these family photographs, it is important to recognise that the connection between the subject and the image is severed both iconically and indexically from its original context. However, by understanding this photographic image in the context of being digital it must be understood differently. I will therefore use the MyHeritage phenomenon as a means of arguing that the digital image is not inferior to the ‘realism’ of analogue photography and must, instead, be read in relation to the history of technological change.
The effect of autism phenotype and diagnosis disclosure on students’ desire for social distance from autistic peers
Authors: Muraškaitė Indrė , Žardeckaitė-Matulaitienė Kristina
Published: February 2024

Autistic students report feeling lonely, rejected by peers which is associated with poorer well-being and lower academic results. This study aims to evaluate the effect of autism phenotype and diagnosis disclosure on students’ desire for social distance from autistic students and factors related to social distancing. 303 students (72.3% women; mean age = 22.37 years) participated in this study. Each participant was assigned to one of the six vignettes depicting students of different gender and diagnostic status. Respondents’ willingness to engage in different social situations, type and quality of prior contact with autism, autism knowledge and social desirability bias were measured. Results showed that students desired greater social distance from autistic males compared to autistic females, as well as from peers with non-disclosed diagnosis compared to those with disclosed diagnosis. Greater autism knowledge was related to less desire for social distance in non-disclosure, disclosure and in male autism phenotype conditions. Higher quality of contact was associated with less desire for social distance from autistic students with disclosed diagnosis. Type of contact was not related to social distance. Findings suggest that autistic male students and individuals with non-disclosed diagnosis might be more vulnerable to social exclusion.

Lay abstract

Autistic students experience loneliness, rejection from peers, which might negatively affect both their well-being, as well as academic results. Others have studied this topic, however, the existing research does not analyze the desire for social distance from autistic female students in higher education. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether the way autism is expressed and disclosing the autism diagnosis had an effect on students’ willingness to interact with autistic male and female students. We also analyzed participants’ knowledge about autism, contact with autistic people in the past and its pleasantness in relation to their willingness to interact with autistic students described in the scenarios of the present study. We found that students were less willing to interact with autistic male students compared to autistic female students, as well as with autistic students whose diagnosis was not disclosed compared to autistic students whose diagnosis was disclosed to the raters. In addition, students who reported more pleasant contact with autistic individuals in the past were more willing to socially interact with autistic students if their diagnosis was disclosed. Students with higher knowledge of autism expressed greater willingness to interact with autistic males and autistic students regardless of diagnosis disclosure. Findings suggest that autistic males and individuals who prefer not to disclose their diagnosis are more vulnerable to social exclusion. More subtle expressions of autism need to be researched further.
In-situ computed tomography analysis of the failure mechanisms of thermomechanically manufactured joints with auxiliary joining element
Authors: Borgert T , Köhler D , Wiens E. , Kupfer R , Troschitz J , Homberg W , Gude M
Published: February 2024

Lightweight design by using low-density and load-adapted materials can reduce the weight of vehicles and the emissions generated during operation. However, the usage of different materials requires innovative joining technologies with increased versatility. In this investigation, the focus is on describing and characterising the failure behaviour of connections manufactured by an innovative thermomechanical joining process with adaptable auxiliary joining elements in single-lap tensile-shear tests. In order to analyse the failure development in detail, the specimens are investigated using in-situ computed tomography (in-situ CT). Here, the tensile-shear test is interrupted at points of interest and CT scans are conducted under load. In addition, the interrupted in-situ testing procedure is validated by comparing the loading behaviour with conventional continuous tensile-shear tests. The results of the in-situ investigations of joints with varying material combinations clearly describe the cause of failure, allowing conclusions towards an improved joint design.
Micromechanical modeling and experimental study of the flexural properties of impregnated woven textile-reinforced concrete
Authors: Ghasemi Roohallah , Safarabadi Majid , Haghighi-Yazdi Mojtaba , Mirdehghan Sayed Abolfazl
Published: February 2024

As a high-performance composite material in construction, textile-reinforced concrete has been of interest in recent years. This study significantly contributes to the characterization of textile-reinforced concrete through an extensive experimental and analytical investigation, focusing on impregnated textile-reinforced concrete under flexural loading. For this purpose, two sets of experiments were conducted. The first set involved model input parameters tests, including the tensile test of epoxy resin and E-glass yarn, as well as the compression and flexural tests of concrete. The second set is related to validation tests, specifically focused on the flexural behavior of textile-reinforced concrete. Micromechanical frameworks were employed to model the flexural behavior of textile-reinforced concrete and a multiscale micromechanical model based on the classical lamination theory was developed to predict the load-deflection diagram of textile-reinforced concrete in the three-point bending test setup. The modeling results demonstrated a remarkable agreement between predictions and experimental data. Key performance indicators, including the first crack force, ultimate force, flexural modulus, and maximum deflection, were accurately predicted with errors of 2.4%, 6.1%, 11.1%, and 6.3%, respectively. Furthermore, from a parametric study, it is perceived that the flexural modulus of elasticity in textile-reinforced concrete is predominantly influenced by concrete properties, while the ultimate strength of textile-reinforced concrete is significantly affected by the properties of the impregnated fabric.
A Cost-Consequence Analysis Comparing Balloon-Expandable Covered Stents for the Management of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease
Authors: Warburton Thomas M. , Thomas Shannon D. , Holden Andrew , Katib Nedal , Varcoe Ramon L.
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To compare procedural and long-term costs associated with the use of Balloon-Expandable Covered Stents (BECS) in the management of Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease (AIOD).

Materials and Methods:

A cost-consequence model was developed to simulate the intra- and post-operative management of patients with AIOD from the perspective of private health-payers. The study assessed the costs of the LifeStream (BD, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey), iCAST/Advanta V12 (Getinge, Goteborg, Sweden), BeGraft Peripheral (Bentley, Hechingen, Germany), and Viabahn Balloon Expandable (VBX) (W.L. Gore, Flagstaff, Arizona) BECS devices. Device costs were identified from the Australian Prosthesis List, whereas clinical outcomes of BECS were estimated from a systematic review of the literature. Costs were calculated over 24 and 36 month time horizons and reported in US dollars.

Results:

Long-term, per-patient cost of each device at 24 and 36 months was $6253/$6634 for the LifeStream; $6359/$6869 for the iCAST/Advanta V12; $4806 (data available to 24 months) for the BeGraft Peripheral; and $4839/$5046 for the Viabahn VBX, respectively. Most of the cost difference was attributed to the number of stents required per treated limb and frequency of clinically-driven target lesion revascularization events.

Conclusions:

Best-available clinical evidence and economic modeling demonstrates that the BeGraft Peripheral and Viabahn VBX were of similar cost and the least costly options at 24 months, whereas at 36 months, the lowest cost BECS option for the treatment of AIOD was the Viabahn VBX.

Clinical Impact

This analysis supports economically informed decision-making for health-payers managing systems that care for patients with AIOD. Stent length and avoiding reintervention were identified as key areas of cost-saving for future BECS development.
Economic Analysis of AbClo, a Novel Abdominal Fascia Closure Device, for Patients With an Open Abdomen Following Trauma or Acute Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Chew Derek S. , Dayal Taranvir
Published: February 2024

Background

Open Abdomen (OA) cases represent a significant surgical and resource challenge. AbClo is a novel non-invasive abdominal fascial closure device that engages lateral components of the abdominal wall muscles to support gradual approximation of the fascia and reduce the fascial gap. The study objective was to assess the economic implications of AbClo compared to negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) alone on OA management.

Methods

We conducted a cost-minimization analysis using a decision tree comparing the use of the AbClo device to NPWT alone among patients with midline laparotomy for trauma or acute abdominal surgery who were ineligible for primary fascial closure. The time horizon was limited to the length of the inpatient hospital stay, and costs were considered from the perspective of the US Medicare payer. Clinical effectiveness data for AbClo was obtained from a randomized clinical trial. Cost data was obtained from the published literature. Probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analyses were performed. The primary outcome was incremental cost.

Results

The mean cumulative costs per patient were $76 582 for those treated with NPWT alone and $70,582 for those in the group treated with the AbClo device. Compared to NPWT alone, AbClo was associated with lower incremental costs of −$6012 (95% CI −$19 449 to +$1996). The probability that AbClo was cost-savings compared to NPWT alone was 94%.

Conclusions

The use of AbClo is an economically attractive strategy for management of OA in in patients with midline laparotomy for trauma or acute abdominal surgery who were ineligible for primary fascial closure.
The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on the Treatment of Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Grogan Graham , Stephens Kristen L. , Chou Jesse , Abdalla Jasmina , Wagner Ryan , Peek Kacy J. , Freilich Aaron M. , DeGeorge Brent R.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Disparities in social determinants of health (SDH) have been shown to play an increasingly important role in the equitable delivery of health care. Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are among the most common upper-extremity injuries encountered. This study aims to examine the influence of economic, educational, social, environmental, and healthcare disparities on management of these injuries.

Methods:

PearlDiver Mariner insurance claims database was analyzed for treatment patterns of DRF in patients aged 18 to 65 years based on the presence or absence of social determinants of health disparities (SDHDs). Outcome variables included the primary mode of management of DRF, including operative versus non-operative, as well as concomitant procedures. Multivariate logistic regression was used to compare fracture management modality in patients with and without SDHDs.

Results:

Of 161 704 patients identified with DRF, 38.3% had at least 1 reported SDHD. The majority of SDHDs were economic. Patients identified with 1 or more SDHDs had a higher medical comorbidity index. Patients with environmental SDHD were more likely to receive non-operative management. Within any SDHD and economic subgroups, odds of operative management were higher. No relationship was identified between SDHD and concomitant procedures.

Conclusions:

The presence of environmental disparities in SDH may predispose patients disproportionately to non-operative management. The presence of SDHDs may influence medical decision-making in favor of open reduction and internal fixation in patients with DRF treated operatively. In treating at-risk populations, providers should be aware of the potential for implicit bias associated with SDHDs and prioritize shared decision-making between patients and physicians.
Pre-operative virtual three-dimensional planning for proximal humerus fractures: A proof-of-concept study
Authors: Spek Reinier WA , van den Bekerom Michel PJ , Jutte Paul C , IJpma Frank FA , Jaarsma Ruurd L , Doornberg Job N ,   the Traumaplatform 3D Consortium 7*
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To (1) evaluate surgeon agreement on plating features (position and screw length) in virtual 3D planning software, (2) describe outcomes (fracture reduction, plate position, malpositioning of calcar screws and screw lengths) of plate fixations planned with routine pre-operative assessment (2D- and 3D CT imaging) and those planned with dedicated virtual 3D software of the same proximal humerus fracture.

Methods

Fourteen proximal humerus fractures were retrospectively reduced and fixed with virtual planning software by eight attending orthopaedic surgeons and compared to the true surgical fixation with post-operative computed tomography (CT) scans. Reduction differences were quantified using CT micromotion analysis.

Results

Intraclass correlation for screw lengths was 0.97 (95% CI: 0.96–0.98) and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.79–0.96) for plate position. Mean difference in total fracture rotation of the head between the virtual and conventional group was 22.0°. Plate position in the virtual planning group was 3.2 mm more proximal. There were no differences in inferomedial quadrant calcar screw positioning and, apart from the superior posterior converging screw, no significant differences in screw lengths.

Conclusion

Reproducibility on plate position and screw length with virtual planning software is adequate. Apart from fracture reduction, virtual planning yielded similar plate positions, screw malpositioning rates and lengths compared to routine pre-operative assessment.
Iranian Sports Migration and the Gender Imbalance: Examining Emigration Framing of Elite Iranian Athletes by State-Run Media
Authors: Sadri Sean R. , Billings Andrew C. , Latififard Mahdi
Published: February 2024

Utilizing framing theory, the present study examined gender differences in Iranian state-run media and alternative media portrayals of elite athlete emigration. By analyzing 704 online news articles published between 2007 and 2022 and comparing gender disparities, the study provides insights into the framing narratives used by a nation without a free press to undermine gender equity and national dialogues about sport. The study determined that male athletes received disproportionally high framing coverage over time, but this gender imbalance shifted to the inverse in 2020. This can be attributed to a sudden influx of prominent female athletes emigrating from Iran to avoid political persecution. Study findings also uncovered a stark contrast in the prominence of frames attributed to each gender.