bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Context of Sexual Exploitation of Children by Tourists and Travelers: A Cross-National Comparison of Destination Countries and Non-Destination Countries
Authors: Koning Anneke , van Wilsem Johan
Published: March 2022

Certain countries are well known for being destination countries for sexual exploitation of children in the context of travel and tourism (SECTT). Various factors are assumed to be at play to increase the vulnerability of countries, and the children that live within them, to being destinations for SECTT. The current study uses a cross-national, quantitative approach to examine these assumptions, by investigating macro-level factors relating to tourism, children's living conditions, governance, and economic development that may account for the variation in SECTT occurrence. Our findings indicate that destination countries are, on average, characterized by lower economic wealth and are located closer to the equator. Unlike assumed in previous literature, governance and tourism are not significantly related to destination countries for SECTT. The results for children's living conditions are unexpected: while bivariate analyses show that destination countries have poorer children's living conditions, a positive relation emerges in multivariate models when controlled for economic development. More specifically, we find that within the group of countries with poor economic conditions, SECTT is more likely to occur in countries with better protection of children's rights to life and education. We explore potential explanations for this finding.
Adaptive odd repetitive control for magnetically suspended rotor harmonic currents suppression
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhou Jin , Han Xiaoming , Zhou Yang
Published: March 2022

Magnetic levitation rotating machinery has been widely used in industrial applications. Odd harmonic currents in the active magnetic bearing coils, which are caused by rotor mass unbalance and sensor runout, increase the power consumption and the base vibration. Repetitive control has recently been used to suppress harmonic currents in magnetic bearing systems. However, repetitive control needs the rotor rotational speed information and has some limitations without a speed sensor. In this paper, an adaptive odd repetitive control which does not need the speed sensors is proposed to suppress the active magnetic bearing odd harmonic currents. Compared to the conventional repetitive control, the second-order generalized integral frequency-locked loop is applied in adaptive odd repetitive control to estimate the rotor speed in real time without additional speed sensors. The magnetically suspended rotor with harmonic disturbances is modeled. The work principle, structure, and design of the adaptive odd repetitive control are addressed. The simulation and experiments are carried out on a rotor active magnetic bearing test rig to validate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive odd repetitive control, and the results show that the active magnetic bearing odd harmonic currents are well suppressed.
Emergency Department Use and Advance Care Planning in Home Health Value-Based Purchasing
Authors: Bigger Sharon E. , Glenn Lee
Published: March 2022

Advance care planning (ACP) is a conversation about values, future treatment choices, and designation of a surrogate decision-maker, held in advance of a health crisis. ACP protocols are established by home health agencies (HHAs) to support the staff in talking about patients’ future treatment choices, which can include opting against acute care use. In 2016, Medicare implemented an experimental incentive program called Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) in 9 regionally representative states. These agencies were required to compete on value, where reimbursement rates were tied to outcomes in a Total Performance Score (TPS). With home health’s aim of avoiding unplanned acute care use, in-patient hospitalization was weighted the heaviest as a poor outcome, followed by emergency department (ED) use. The purpose of this quasi-interventional study was to determine the relationship between advance care planning protocols and ED use among HHAs in the U. S. by the status of participation HHVBP intervention group. The Advance Care Planning Protocol (ACPP) score was measured by scoring survey questions. Our findings show (1) ACPP score intensity was higher in states that participated in the HHVBP program; (2) high measurement reliability for the ACPP scores; (3) no significant relationship between ACPP and ED use overall; but (4) the relationship between ACPP intensity and ED use was equal-and-opposite for the HHVBP and non-HHVBP groups. These findings suggest that the HHVBP intervention altered the influence of ACPP intensity on ED use. Recommendations are made for the HHVBP program regarding ACP’s role in goal-concordant care.
Artificial Intelligence in Pediatric Pathology: The Extinction of a Medical Profession or the Key to a Bright Future?
Authors: van der Kamp Ananda , Waterlander Tomas J. , de Bel Thomas , van der Laak Jeroen , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry M. , Mavinkurve-Groothuis Annelies M. C. , de Krijger Ronald R.
Published: March 2022

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become of increasing interest over the past decade. While digital image analysis (DIA) is already being used in radiology, it is still in its infancy in pathology. One of the reasons is that large-scale digitization of glass slides has only recently become available. With the advent of digital slide scanners, that digitize glass slides into whole slide images, many labs are now in a transition phase towards digital pathology. However, only few departments worldwide are currently fully digital. Digital pathology provides the ability to annotate large datasets and train computers to develop and validate robust algorithms, similar to radiology. In this opinionated overview, we will give a brief introduction into AI in pathology, discuss the potential positive and negative implications and speculate about the future role of AI in the field of pediatric pathology.
Posterior Pseudo-Lenticonus Sign in a Patient with Nipple Cone Keratoconus
Authors: Ghoreishi Mohammad , Peyman Alireza , Sadeghi Amir , Pourazizi Mohsen
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To describe a previously unreported posterior pseudo-lenticonus sign in a patient with nipple cone keratoconus (KC).

Case report

A 32-year-old female presented with complaints of right eye visual acuity loss. Although she was initially diagnosed with posterior lenticonus, the additional clinical evaluation revealed no true lenticonus. The corneal topography revealed a central nipple cone KC, and the crystalline lend finding was consistent with a pseudo-lenticonus.

Conclusion

Due to inadvertent visual effects, nipple cone KC may resemble posterior lenticonus.
Reconstruction with a cage outlives patients with metastatic disease involving the acetabulum
Authors: Shiels Sarah J , Gosling Oliver , Mehendale Sanchit A , Baker Richard P
Published: March 2022

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine whether patients treated with a caged reconstruction for metastatic acetabular disease would have a construct survival superior to that of their life expectancy.

Patients and methods:

We undertook a retrospective study, in a single centre in the United Kingdom, reviewing outcomes for 19 patients (20 hips) treated with a cage reconstruction for metastatic disease of their acetabulum over 6 years. Inclusion criteria were those with an impending fracture of the acetabulum, metastatic dissociation, fracture of the acetabulum and or femur and those whose life expectancy was considered by the oncology team to be >6 months.

Results:

In all patients the Restoration GAP II acetabular cage (Stryker, Howmedica Osteonics Corp, NJ, USA) was used in conjunction with a cemented acetabular cup and cemented femoral stem. The mean age at the time of surgery was 68 (44–87) years with breast cancer being the most common primary malignancy (31%) followed by prostate cancer (26%). Radiological survivorship estimates were 94.1% (95% CI, 99.2–65.0) at 12 and 24 months, 70.6% (95% CI, 93.6–16.0) at 36 months and 35.3% (95% CI, 78.2–1.2) at 48 months. There were 3 radiological failures of the implant due to disease progression. Complications occurred in 3 patients with 2 developing deep infection which was treated with suppressive antibiotic therapy following aspiration of the hip. 1 patient suffered a hip dislocation following trauma which was successfully reduced closed and no further intervention was required.

Conclusions:

This study represents the first published case series of the use of the GAP II cage in patients with metastatic acetabular disease. The construct generally outlives the patient and hence is suitable for the treatment of acetabular metastases.
Spirit possession, mental suffering, and treatment by theurgic flight anthropological study of a culture-bound syndrome among the Turkmens of Iran
Authors: Saki Fatemeh , Ahmadi Abdoljavad
Published: March 2022

Although shamanism dates back to the prehistoric era, reminiscence of its beliefs and representation of them could still be seen in Central Asian communities and the Turkmens of Iran. Spirit possession, fairy possession and Porkhani are all terms used to describe a severe psychotic disorder; this mental disorder can be found in the Turkmen culture in Iran and Central Asia and is commonly explained as possession of the spirit by forces of evil. In this culture-bound syndrome, the patient experiences severe psychosis and shows resistance towards psychiatric treatments but finds relief through specific cultural rituals. This article, which is the outcome of 2 years of field research, aims to explain a phenomenon that is not yet considered a culture-bound syndrome through ethnography using observation techniques, interviewing patients and healers, attending healing rituals, and taking photos and filming. The author believes that without considering the patient’s cultural background, lifeworld, description of the symptoms, and cultural treatment methods, we cannot come to an accurate understanding of this phenomenon.
Museums in the age of platform giants: Disconnected policies and practices
Authors: Valtysson Bjarki
Published: March 2022

This article explores how the British Museum and the National Museum of Australia tailor their digital cultural politics, and how this corresponds to their management of online collections and presence on social media. The article applies textual analysis to examine how the two museums discursively frame their policies; interface analysis to demonstrate how they organise their online collections; and platform analysis to scrutinise their communication on Instagram. Findings indicate that the museums’ policies align with writings on democratic, participative, and user-generated digital museum communication. In practice, however, their design of digital collections and use of Instagram does not reflect their digital cultural politics as policy. There is therefore a disconnect between their policies and practices. This disconnect does not indicate that their digital collections and presence on social media are poorly designed and executed, but rather that the democratic, engaging, user-driven and participatory discourses of new museology are overstated.
Psychodrama with persons with dementia on zoom: Proof of concept
Authors: Brown Nancy , Cedar Tzippi , Tziraki Chariklia
Published: March 2022

COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns created a global public health crisis generating mental health problems including social isolation, stress, and anxiety especially for persons with dementia and their carers. This article reports on the use of digital technology to maintain social connectivity via a virtual group session that focused on the topic of “what is home.” Participants in this session included 16 day-care center clients representing an immigrant community identified with mild to moderate cognitive impairment. A trained psychodrama therapist conducted the virtual group meeting based on five key techniques: spectrogram, role reversal, doubling, mirroring, and soliloquy. The NVivo software was used for the qualitative analysis of the transcribed video recording to identify key themes based on grounded theory methodology. Zooming from home, clients engaged in significant social interaction. Findings of the NVivo analysis identified the following themes of “what is home”: Emotions and home, Home is family, Home is community, and Reminiscence (with objects and traditions). Findings suggest that digital interactive technologies, like Zoom, enhance social connectivity thus mitigating the negative impact of social isolation for persons with dementia especially during pandemic lockdowns. Our pilot findings based on virtual group meetings from home demonstrate that participants can express significant emotive capacity and enhanced connectivity with one another despite a diagnosis of mild to moderate dementia. While larger studies are needed to confirm these findings, we suggest that this methodology may be used to support persons with dementia not only in times of pandemics but also as an addition to other community and home care services. Changes in reimbursement policies to include these innovative home services may be helpful in building more resilient communities for the more highly vulnerable populations.
Perception of Emergent Leaders’ Faces and Evolution of Social Cheating: Cross-Cultural Experiments
Authors: Rostovtseva Victoria V. , Mezentseva Anna A. , Butovskaya Marina L.
Published: March 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether neutral faces of individuals with different propensities for leadership may convey information about their personal qualities, and are there impacts of sex, population and social environment on the facial perception. This study is based on a previous experiment ( Rostovtseva et al., 2022 ), where emergent leadership in the context of male group cooperation was investigated in Buryats (Mongolian population of Siberia). In the previous study three behavioural types of participants were revealed: non-leaders, prosocial leaders and leaders-cheaters, each having a set of distinguishing personality, communicative, and cooperative features. In the current study, three composite portraits representing different leadership qualities of Buryat men from the prior experiment were created. The composites were then scored on a number of traits by male and female Russian and Buryat independent raters ( N = 435). The results revealed that ratings on masculinity, physical strength, dominance, competitiveness, and perceived leadership were positively correlated, while perceived trustworthiness was negatively associated with these traits. However, the composite portraits of actual leaders generally were scored as more trustworthy, masculine, and physically strong, with the prosocial leaders’ portrait being perceived as healthier than others. Surprisingly, the composite of leaders-cheaters was scored as the most trustworthy and generous, and the least competitive than others. No significant effects of raters’ sex, origin, or degree of familiarity with Mongolian appearance were revealed. We conclude that static facial morphology contributes to appearing trustworthy, which may allow exploitation of others.
Liability in BIM projects—Preliminary review results
Authors: Taghizadeh Katayoun , Yavari Roushan Tayebe , Alizadeh Maryam
Published: March 2022

Building Information Modelling (BIM) fosters a collaborative working environment. With the industry moving toward this change, most practitioners believe that, compared to traditional methods, there will be a change in project liabilities and risk assignment. Design integration through BIM leads to ambiguity in determining the party responsible for the design. Therefore, BIM parties need to understand not only BIM but also the change in their responsibilities and think of solutions to liability and risk assignment. Based on the information gathered from three resources, this study aims at reviewing solutions to design liability assignment. These three resources are as follows: the existing research studies in the field of BIM adoption challenges, the existing contractual standards such as AIA G202, and contract conditions of 10 BIM projects. Findings indicate that there has been a lack of attention to design liability in BIM. The results provide significant insights into the status of BIM liability issue, the existing gaps in the knowledge, and potential future research.
Reconsidering the “Place” in Field Placement
Authors: Fifolt Matthew , McCormick Lisa C. , Zhong Deanna , Lloyd Laura M. , Alperin Melissa
Published: March 2022

Site-based, in-person field placement experiences prepare students for real-world community practice through reflection; direct, hands-on experience; and the completion of a project or set of deliverables that add value to the organization. These practice experiences encourage students to integrate classroom learning with the knowledge and skills of a workplace environment. In the Southeast United States, the Region IV Public Health Training Center (R-IV PHTC) provides students with practice experiences through the Pathways to Practice Scholars Field Placement Program. Before COVID-19, these field placement experiences were limited to in-person assignments in which students worked and lived in the communities they served. However, student and mentor experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that remote work arrangements offer a viable alternative to the onsite-only field placement experience. In this article, we describe student experiences with remote and hybrid work arrangements, highlight issues regarding equity and inclusion, and discuss implications for future public health practice.
Initial Development and Validation of the Measures of Stressors and Supports for Teachers (MOST)
Authors: Sandilos Lia E. , DiPerna James C.
Published: March 2022

The creation of psychometrically sound assessments of teacher well-being is critical given the alarmingly high rates of teacher burnout reported among U.S. educators. The present study sought to address this need by developing the Measures of Stressors and Supports for Teachers (MOST), a teacher-report questionnaire designed to assess ecological and psychological factors that affect teachers’ professional well-being. To assess structural validity, the MOST was administered to a sample of K–12 educators ( N = 218). Methods outlined in Classical Test Theory and exploratory factor analysis were conducted to examine items and assess the factor structure of the MOST. Factor analytic findings yielded a 40-item, nine-factor structure (Parents, Colleagues, School Leadership and Belonging, Classroom Students, Students With Disabilities, Time Pressure, Professional Development, Safety, and Emotional State). Implications for further validation and use of the MOST are discussed.
Billing and Utilization Trends for Hand Surgery Indicate Worsening Barriers to Accessing Care
Authors: Gong Jung Ho , Long Chao , Eltorai Adam E. M. , Sanghavi Kavya K. , Giladi Aviram M.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Hospitals and providers may increase hand surgery charges to compensate for decreasing reimbursement. Higher charges, combined with increasing utilization of ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs), may threaten the accessibility of affordable hand surgery care for uninsured and underinsured patients.

Methods:

We queried the Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary to collect the number of procedures, charges, and reimbursements of hand procedures from 2010 to 2019. We adjusted procedural volume by Medicare enrollment and monetary values to the 2019 US dollar. We calculated weighted means of charges and reimbursement that were then used to calculate reimbursement-to-charge ratios (RCRs). We calculated overall change and r2 from 2010 to 2019 for all procedures and stratified by procedural type, service setting, and state where service was rendered.

Results:

Weighted mean charges, reimbursement, and RCRs changed by + 21.0% (from $1,227 to $1,485; r2 = 0.93), +10.8% (from $321 to $356; r2 = 0.69), and -8.4% (from 0.26 to 0.24; r2 = 0.76), respectively. The Medicare enrollment-adjusted number of procedures performed in ASCs increased by 63.8% ( r2 = 0.95). Trends in utilization and billing varied widely across different procedural types, service settings, and states.

Conclusions:

Charges for hand surgery procedures steadily increased, possibly reflecting an attempt to make up for reimbursements perceived to be inadequate. This trend places uninsured and underinsured patients at greater risk for financial catastrophe, as they are often responsible for full or partial charges. In addition, procedures shifted from inpatient to ASC setting. This may further limit access to affordable hand care for uninsured and underinsured patients.
Perceived feasibility of an occupation-based telerehabilitation intervention for older adults with chronic health conditions in Israel
Authors: Beit Yosef Aviva , Maeir Talia , Khalailh Fatena , Gilboa Yafit
Published: March 2022

Aims

Our study explored the perceived feasibility of using a home-based telerehabilitation service for older adults with chronic health conditions in Israel.

Method

This mixed-methods study included two focus groups of registered occupational therapists ( n = 10) working in rehabilitation wards in Israel. Participants completed an open-ended questionnaire and Likert scale items so that data could be gathered on their perspectives regarding using an in-home telerehabilitation service for older adults after discharge from rehabilitation units. Thematic analysis with an a priori coding approach was applied to the data.

Results

Perceived advantages included transfer to the natural environment and the overcoming of geographical distance. Caregiver support and patient motivation were recognized as enabling factors. Perceived barriers included lack of hands-on contact and the concern that safety could be impeded by technological challenges and the patients’ cognitive status.

Conclusions

Findings from this study can potentially contribute to facilitating the implementation of a home-based telerehabilitation service as a practical alternative for elderly patients after discharge from rehabilitation units in Israel.
Endovascular embolization for the treatment of epistaxis: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hoffman Haydn , Ashok Kumar Apeksha , Raventhiranathan Neveada , Masoud Hesham E , Gould Grahame C
Published: March 2022

Background

Endovascular embolization (EE) is a treatment option for epistaxis refractory to first-line interventions. Data regarding embolization is limited to small case series and a meta-analysis has not been performed.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE were used to identify studies that reported outcomes for at least 10 patients undergoing EE for epistaxis. Outcomes included procedural success, rebleeding, and complications. Pooled rates for each outcome were obtained with random effects models.

Results

A total of 44 studies comprising 1664 patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age ranged from 28.1 to 67 years and there were 28.4% females. The pooled procedural success rate was 87% (95% CI 83.9–89.6, I 2  = 53%). Age (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91–1) and hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia ([HHT], OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.96–0.99) were associated with decreased odds of success. The pooled rebleeding rate was 16.4% (95% CI 13.6–19.6, I 2  = 48%), and HHT was associated with greater odds of rebleeding (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1–1.03). The pooled overall complication rate was 14.4% (95% CI 9.8–20.6, I 2  = 85.8%). The pooled rates of stroke and vision loss were 2.1% (95% CI 1.5–3.1, I 2  = 1.5%) and 1.8% (95% CI 1.2–2.6, I 2  = 0%), respectively.

Conclusion

EE for epistaxis has a high rate of procedural success. Interventionalists should be aware of the risk for rebleeding, especially among patients with HHT.
Methodological and Ethical Considerations when Conducting Qualitative Interview Research With Healthcare Professionals: Reflections and Recommendations as a Result of a Pandemic
Authors: Pilbeam Caitlin , Anthierens Sibyl , Vanderslott Samantha , Tonkin-Crine Sarah , Wanat Marta
Published: March 2022

The impacts of healthcare professionals (HCPs) being research participants are often neglected. As professionals, they tend to be perceived as ‘immune’ to many negative effects of sharing their experiences. However, in the context of an ongoing global pandemic such as COVID-19, these assumptions can be clearly challenged. This article draws on researchers’ experiences of conducting single and longitudinal qualitative interviews with HCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe during 2020. Reflecting on the methodological and ethical implications of doing such research during a pandemic allows researchers to surface assumptions about and question categories of ‘vulnerability’ and ‘sensitivity’. We explore these categories in relation to three issues we have identified: (i) Blurred boundaries in researcher-participant relationships; (ii) Interviews as spaces to process experiences; and (iii) Motivations to conduct and participate in research. We demonstrate that qualitative interviews during a pandemic are embedded in sense-making processes for both the interviewer and participant, and as such may play an important role in coping and resilience. We therefore argue for ethically active research that critically engages with the concepts of ‘vulnerability’ and ‘sensitivity’, and underpinning assumptions, in context over time throughout the research process for current and future research with HCPs and other groups beyond pandemic situations. We thus aim to prepare researchers for managing these potential facets during the research process. We conclude with practical implications for managing emerging ethical tensions, methodological challenges and the wide-ranging possibilities and responsibilities for research with HCPs, urging researchers to consider the issues in advance.
The action dynamics of approach-avoidance conflict during decision-making
Authors: Garcia-Guerrero Santiago , O’Hora Denis , Zgonnikov Arkady , Scherbaum Stefan
Published: March 2022

Approach-avoidance conflict is observed in the competing motivations towards the benefits and away from the costs of a decision. The current study investigates the action dynamics of response motion during such conflicts in an attempt to characterise their dynamic resolution. An approach-avoidance conflict was generated by varying the appetitive consequences of a decision (i.e., point rewards and shorter participation time) in the presence of simultaneous aversive consequences (i.e., shock probability). Across two experiments, approach-avoidance conflict differentially affected response trajectories. Approach trajectories were less complex than avoidance trajectories and, as approach and avoidance motivations neared equipotentiality, response trajectories were more deflected from the shortest route to the eventual choice. Consistency in the location of approach and avoidance response options reduced variability in performance enabling more sensitive estimates of dynamic conflict. The time course of competing influences on response trajectories including trial-to-trial effects and conflict between approach and avoidance were estimated using regression analyses. We discuss these findings in terms of a dynamic theory of approach-avoidance that we hope will lead to insights of practical relevance in the field of maladaptive avoidance.
Broadcasting and devolution: Radical future?
Authors: Hutchison David
Published: March 2022

The mismatch between political devolution in the United Kingdom and the apparent retention at the centre of responsibility for broadcasting policy, particularly in relation to the BBC, is examined, and the anomalies therein explored. The article argues that, despite the constitutional position, in practice devolution of broadcasting policy has proceeded, albeit unevenly, and more systematic devolution may follow. That process might have to be accompanied by a restructuring of the United Kingdom politically.
Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy: prospective safety evaluation and 90-day mortality after a standardized examination protocol
Authors: Hackner Klaus , Stadler Antonia , Schragel Felix , Klamminger Valerie , Ghanim Bahil , Varga Alexander , Errhalt Peter
Published: March 2022

Background:

Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) is a new method of bronchoscopic tissue sampling in patients with unclear diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD). While not the gold standard, TBLC has a good diagnostic correlation with surgical lung biopsy, and retrospective analyses of peri-interventional complications and mortality are promising. However, prospective reports on 90-day mortality are lacking.

Objectives:

This study addresses morbidity and 30- and 90-day mortality in TBLC after a standardized protocol.

Methods:

In this prospective study, 75 patients with DPLD requiring tissue sampling were included. A standardized protocol (including prophylactic use of an endobronchial balloon, postinterventional observation, and minimum sampling requirements) was used in all patients. Adverse events (pneumothorax, bronchial bleeding, premature discontinuation, prolonged monitoring at ICU, and fatal outcome) and 30- and 90-day mortality rates were recorded.

Results:

A total of 308 cryobiopsies were performed in 75 patients. Peri- and postinterventional pneumothorax were observed in 20% (9.3% mild and 10.7% moderate with the necessity of chest drainage), and bronchial bleeding was found in 29.3% (22.7% moderate and 6.7% severe). Total lung capacity below normal value was associated with the risk of pneumothorax ( p = 0.009), and diffusion limitation for carbon monoxide below normal value was associated with the risk of bronchial bleeding ( p = 0.044). No fatal events were observed within 30 days, and the 90-day mortality rate was 1.3%, but not related to the procedure itself.

Conclusion:

As it gradually becomes the invasive procedure of choice in unclear DPLD, TBLC is a safe procedure with a low 30- and 90-day mortality. Trial registration ID: DRKS00026746 (German Clinical Trial Register)
Haematuria in adults
Authors: Brown Benjamin , Smith Peter
Published: March 2022

Haematuria in adults is a common complaint, whether it be visible (macroscopic, previously called frank) haematuria or non-visible (microscopic) haematuria and may be either symptomatic or asymptomatic. Haematuria is a non-specific symptom generated by a wide range of medical and surgical causes. Determining the cause requires thorough history, examination and investigation. Visible haematuria and symptomatic non-visible haematuria always require investigation.
Urinary tract obstruction
Authors: Wilson Jacob , Farrow Emily , Holden Charles
Published: March 2022

An obstruction may occur anywhere along the urinary tract from the kidney to the urethral meatus. There is a wide range of causes, from benign to malignant, and the ensuing obstruction may develop acutely or more insidiously over weeks to months. Given this variability, symptoms and signs alter depending on the underlying disease process. Knowledge of the anatomy and pathophysiology of the disease process enables prompt recognition and management of common conditions that result in urinary tract obstruction.
Modified Bösch Osteotomy Combined With a Percutaneous Adductor Tendon Release for the Treatment of Hallux Valgus Deformity: Learning Curve
Authors: Ghioldi Mauricio Esteban , Chemes Lucas Nicolás , Dealbera Eric Daniel , De Prado Mariano , Del Vecchio Jorge Javier
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The expression “learning curve” indicates the relation between the time needed to learn a new technique and the technique-related outcome. Percutaneous surgery (also called “minimally invasive surgery”) has experienced sustained and respectable growth, especially in forefoot deformities. The main purpose was to assess the number of feet necessary to become skilled in a specific minimally invasive surgery (MIS) procedure.

Methods

From January 2015 to June 2018, 46 consecutive patients were evaluated and included in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the surgery period: first 30 feet (Group 1), and subsequent 30 feet (Group 2) from the whole population evaluated. Age, body mass index, and operative time were evaluated. Hallux valgus angle and the 1 to 2 intermetatarsal angle were also measured. Patients were assessed according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot scale, the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure activities of daily living (FAAM ADL) subscale and the visual analog scale (VAS).

Results

The comparison of the 2 groups showed statistically significant differences in hallux valgus angle (HVA) but not in intermetatarsal angle (IMA). The mean improvement between pre- and postoperative FAAM ADL, VAS, and AOFAS score in Group 1 were 12.83, 3.93, and 24.77 points, respectively. In Group 2, the mean improvement between pre- and postoperative FAAM ADL, VAS, and AOFAS scores were 15.19, 4.3, and 24.5 points, respectively. The differences between groups in FAAM ADL score was statistically significant (P = 0.0364). Group 1 showed a global complication rate of 16.67% (n = 5) while group 2 showed 3,3% (n = 1).

Conclusion

After the first 30 cases, radiographic, clinical, and functional outcomes substantially improved, and the level of the perioperative complications decreased. The results suggest that the learning curve plateau for performing a percutaneous subcapital osteotomy can be reached after 30 surgeries.

Levels of Evidence

Level III
Touched by Love: Spiritual Experience in Chinese Christian Conversion Narratives
Authors: Scorgie Glen G. , Scorgie Kate , Chow Alexander , Hsieh Nicholas
Published: March 2022

Christianity has become the religion of choice for a growing number of diasporic Chinese. This qualitative study examines the conversion narratives of first-generation Chinese converts to evangelical Protestant Christianity, exploring in particular the spiritual experiences that encouraged or confirmed their resolve to become Christians. Utilizing the method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), twenty English-speaking participants were interviewed, mostly immigrants to the United States or the United Kingdom from China, including Hong Kong, or from Taiwan. The converts to Christianity in this study were in search of an intellectually plausible faith, and an overarching framework of meaning, purpose, and fullness for their lives, and were motivated as well by longings for community and belonging. Participants reported being profoundly “touched”—inexplicably moved—by the love extended to them by other Chinese Christians, and being transformed in wide-ranging and durable ways as a result. In their view, such love was qualitatively different from, and superior to, the more transactional relational dynamics with which they had been familiar. They inferred that it was “otherworldly,” and necessarily emanated from a real and unconditionally benevolent divine source. The study thus illuminates the spiritual dynamics that persist in Chinese Christian conversions, even in a secular age.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Rhododendron longipedicellatum, an Endangered Species
Authors: Cao Yurong , Ma Yongpeng , Li Zhenghong , Liu Xiongfang , Liu Detuan , Qu Suping , Ma Hong
Published: March 2022

Rhododendron longipedicellatum is an endangered species endemic to southeastern Yunnan, China. Assessment of genetic variation is critical for protecting endangered species. Therefore, we used EST-SSR markers to analyze the genetic characteristics of R. longipedicellatum. The results revealed high genetic diversity at the species level ( He = 0.559, NA = 9.529) and within populations ( He = 0.507, NA = 5.910) and moderate genetic differentiation between populations ( FST = 0.083). In addition, more genetic variation existed within populations (91.25%) compared with variation among populations (8.75%). The STRUCTURE analysis showed that 150 individuals from five existing populations could best be divided into two genetic groups. At the population level, the neighbor-joining (NJ) tree and principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) analyses also divided them into two groups. In addition, Bottleneck analyses using the Two-Phase Model (TPM) and Stepwise Mutation Model (SMM) as well as the Garza-Williamson Index revealed widespread signatures of bottleneck events. These results provide vital information for scientifically formulating conservation strategies for the endangered R. longipedicellatum.
Recurrence Patterns and Efficacy of Surveillance Modalities for Sinonasal Malignancies
Authors: Tzelnick Sharon , Levin Einav G. , Yacobi Daniel , Mizrachi Aviram , Popovtzer Aron , Soudry Ethan
Published: March 2022

Objective

There is limited information regarding the recurrence patterns and efficacy of surveillance modalities in patients with sinonasal malignancies.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted between the years 2001–2018 at a tertiary care center. Included were all patients with sinonasal malignancies treated in our institution. Data regarding recurrence and survival were analyzed.

Results

Eighty-one patients were included. Multimodal treatment was administered to the majority of patients. 24 (35.3%) patients recurred with a median time of 17 months (range, 4–180). Although the majority of recurrences occurred within the first 5 years (83.3%), 4 (16.6%) recurred later on (5−15 years). Recurrences were local in 83.3%, regional in 20.8% and distant in 16.6%. All local recurrences occurred within the radiation treatment field and all patients with distant failure had mucosal melanoma. The majority of recurrences (70.6%) were diagnosed clinically or endoscopically, mainly in patients with SCC during the first 2 years of follow up. MRI or PET-CT were crucial in detecting extra-sinus and distant failures. Salvage surgery was feasible in the majority of patients (58.3%). Overall, 5 years survival (OS) rate was 60.9%.

Conclusions

Frequent clinic visits with nasal endoscopy combined with frequent imaging studies should be routinely practiced as part of a long-term surveillance plan. Longer follow up duration should be considered in these patients.
Striatal gray matter volumes, externalizing traits, and N-back task performance: An exploratory study of sex differences using the human connectome project data
Authors: Chen Yu , Li Chiang-Shan R
Published: March 2022

The striatum is implicated in externalizing traits and cognitive dysfunction. The ventral and dorsal striatal subregions may play differentiable roles in externalizing behaviors and executive functions. We employed voxel-based morphometry to estimate the striatal gray matter volumes (GMVs) of 968 young adults (510 women) of the Human Connectome Project. We examined sex differences in striatal GMVs, tested how striatal GMVs related to an externalizing trait (Extn), and 2-back memory efficiency (Eff2), and examined whether these relationships exhibited sex differences. Men showed significantly higher ventral striatum (VS) and lentiform nucleus (LN) GMVs as well as higher Extn and Eff2 than women. Across all subjects, greater caudate and LN GMVs were correlated significantly with lower Eff2 though with limited effect sizes ( r = −0.140, p < .001 and r = −0.093, p = .004, respectively) and the latter correlation was carried primarily by women ( z = −3.070, p = .002, slope test). VS GMV showed positive correlation with Extn ( r = 0.085, p = .008). Together, striatal GMVs are significantly but only weakly associated with externalizing behaviors and cognitive dysfunction in young adults. As key hubs of the fronto-striatal circuits, the ventral and dorsal striatum may contribute differently to externalizing psychopathology.
Advanced magnetic resonance imaging findings of cerebellar hemangioblastomas: A report of three cases and a literature review
Authors: Matsusue Eiji , Inoue Chie , Tabuchi Sadaharu , Yoshioka Hiroki , Nagao Yuichiro , Matsumoto Kensuke , Nakamura Kazuhiko , Fujii Shinya
Published: March 2022

On conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), hemangioblastomas typically appear as mural nodules with an adjacent surrounding cyst or a solid mass in the cerebellum. However, hemangioblastomas sometimes cannot be reliably distinguished using this imaging technique from other tumors, especially pilocytic astrocytomas and metastatic tumors, because of their similar imaging findings and locations. Herein, we report three cases of cerebellar hemangioblastomas and review their findings on conventional and advanced MRI, including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), dynamic susceptibility-weighted contrast-enhanced perfusion-weighted imaging (DSC-PWI), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Solid contrast-enhanced lesions of hemangioblastomas showed increased apparent diffusion coefficient values on DWI, increased relative cerebral blood volume ratio on DSC-PWI, and high lipid/lactate peak on MRS. Therefore, advanced MRI techniques can be helpful in understanding the pathological and metabolic changes of hemangioblastomas and may be useful for their characterization.
Modifying the Renal Angina Index for Predicting AKI and Related Adverse Outcomes in Pediatric Heart Surgery
Authors: Gist Katja M , SooHoo Megan , Mack Emily , Ricci Zaccaria , Kwiatkowski David M , Cooper David S , Krawczeski Catherine D , Alten Jeffrey A , Goldstein Stuart L , Basu Rajit K
Published: March 2022

Background:Reliable prediction of severe acute kidney injury (AKI) and related poor outcomes has the potential to optimize treatment. The purpose of this study was to modify the renal angina index in pediatric cardiac surgery to predict severe AKI and related poor outcomes. Methods: We performed a multicenter retrospective study with the population divided into a derivation and validation cohort to assess the performance of a modified renal angina index assessed at 8 h after cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) admission to predict a complex outcome of severe day 3 AKI or related poor outcomes (ventilation duration >7 days, CICU length of stay >14 days, and mortality). The derivation sample was used to determine the optimal cut-off value. Results: There were 298 and 299 patients in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. The incidence of severe day 3 AKI and the complex outcome was 1.7% and 28% in the derivation and validation cohort. The sensitivity analysis for fulfillment of renal angina was a score >8 with a sensitivity of 63%, specificity of 73%, and negative predictive value of 83%. The cardiac renal angina index predicted the composite outcome with an area under the curve of 0.7 (95% confidence interval: 0.62-0.78). Renal angina patients had a significantly higher probability of the complex outcome when compared to individual risk and injury categories. Conclusions: We operationalized the renal angina index for use after cardiac surgery. Further revision and modification of the construct with integration of biomarkers in a prospective cohort are necessary to refine the prediction model.
The World Society for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery: 2021 Update of the World Database for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery
Authors: St Louis James D. , Deng Luqin , Covington Claire , Timkovich Nicholas A. , Crethers Danielle , Collum Craig S. , Pennington John K. , Broser Taylor , Dabal Robert J. , Jacobs Jeffrey P. , O’Brien James E. , Austin Erle H. , Tchervenkov Christo I. , Kirklin James K.
Published: March 2022

Background

The World Database for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery (WDPCHS), sponsored by the World Society for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery (WSPCHS), provides complex programmatic outcomes analyses for all members of the WSPCHS.

Methods

The Data center, currently at Kirklin Institute for Research in Surgical Outcomes (KIRSO), University of Alabama, Birmingham (USA), provides biannual reports to all active members of the database. This report presents a descriptive analysis of these procedures submitted from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2020.

Results

A total of 37,386 procedures were submitted with an overall mortality of 4.3%. The majority of submissions were from Asian countries. The majority of cases submitted from these countries were of Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)-European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (STAT) Mortality Categories I and II.

Conclusions

The WSPCHS accomplished one of its missions in 2017 when the WDPCHS began accepting data from pediatric and congenital heart surgery programs across the globe. In doing so, it became one of the first organizations to create a platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience, regardless of the socioeconomic status of the particular program or country.
The regional distribution of Japanese kanji
Authors: Sasahara Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

In Japan, kanji is generally thought to be used uniformly across the country. However, in reality, there are regional characteristics regarding the frequency of usage concerning specific kanji, the font, how they are read, their usage, and how the word is written. This paper focuses particularly on proper nouns, such as names of localities and families, to verify the types of spatial distributions that exist and examine the literature concerning their geographical and political phenomena and historical events that have occurred.
Wood identification of Japanese and Chinese wooden statues owned by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, USA
Authors: Tazuru Suyako , Mertz Mechtild , Itoh Takao , Sugiyama Junji
Published: March 2022

Precious cultural assets of East Asia are found worldwide and hold many important art-historical meanings, for example Buddhist statues. In this study, we conducted wood identification of Japanese and Chinese statues owned by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, USA. From the eight Japanese wood sculptures and one Chinese sculpture, 15 samples were collected. The anatomical features of these 15 samples were scrutinized using synchrotron X-ray microtomography or conventional optical microscopy. The results showed that the eight Japanese statues were made from Chamaecyparis obtusa, except for the base of one Japanese statue that was made from Cryptomeria japonica. Both species are important conifers in Japan. In contrast, the Chinese statue was made from hardwood, Paulownia sp.
Physiological and psychological responses to olfactory simulation by Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides) essential oil and the influence of cognitive bias
Authors: Yu Chia-Pin , Weng Wei-Chieh , Ramanpong Jittakon , Wu Chih-Da , Tsai Ming-Jer , Spengler John D.
Published: March 2022

Taiwania (Taiwania cryptomerioides) is a valuable raw material in the wood products industry in Taiwan. An empirical study of the physiological and psychological effects of smelling Taiwania contributes to an understanding of the properties of interior wood that could potentially promote the use of wood materials in a healthy living environment. Prior studies have indicated that pre-knowledge of odors can cause cognitive bias and different responses in subjects. Designed to disclose the therapeutic effects of Taiwania’s scent and its extension to environmental health promotions, this study aimed to (1) investigate its effects on human health responses by stimulating olfaction, and (2) explore the role of cognitive bias in exposure to the scent of Taiwania. The results showed Taiwania’s volatiles had a relaxation effect in reducing the heart rates of participants. Some negative mood states, such as confusion, fatigue, and depression were suppressed. Regarding sensory perceptions, participants reported Taiwania’s scent induced greater affective scores of stimulation, excitement, firmness, distinctiveness, activity, and denseness, but a lower feeling of pleasantness. There were significant effects of positive cognitive bias on reducing the anger-hostility feeling of participants, but no effects on physiological responses. Moreover, the positive information bias alleviated the unpleasantness toward the smell.