bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shaping In-Destination Group Decision-Making: The Sociomateriality of Smartphones
Authors: Wang Dan , Tussyadiah Iis , Zhang Elaine
Published: March 2023

In-destination travel decisions exist due to uncertainties after arrival and the flexibility of leisure travel. Concurrently, smartphone use encourages instant information searching and communication, which promotes in-destination decision-making and plan changes. However, previous studies have provided a limited understanding of in-destination decisions, particularly when travel companions are involved. This study thus adopted sociomateriality as a theoretical tool to offer a sociotechnical perspective in examining the interactions between travelers and their smartphones in an in-destination group decision-making context. We identified three communication patterns in group decision-making during trips and four features of smartphone sociomateriality: knowledgeability, thriftiness, referenceability, and negotiability. This study responds to recent calls to extend the theoretical repertoire of information technology and tourism research, and to conduct more empirical studies on tourists’ in-destination behaviors in the mobile Internet age.
RDB-CSCA: A deep learning method to identify the spectral information for tracing the egg quality
Authors: Yan Chaohua , Lu An
Published: March 2023

It is important to provide a fast and nondestructive detection method for egg quality supervision to realize the quality identification of eggs in different storage periods based on sensing detection technology. In this paper, a detection method is proposed for egg quality identification in different storage periods based on a deep learning method combined with a hyperspectral system. First, channel-spatial collaborative attention (CSCA) is proposed to adaptively focus on the critical features of deep spectral information. Second, residual dense block (RDB) network is introduced to adaptively fuse deep and shallow features, thereby avoiding the feature degradation phenomenon that occurs in the convolution calculation process. Finally, the CSCA and RDB are combined to construct a decision-making network for the identification of spectral information of eggs in different storage periods. The results show that in the comparison of multi-structure models, RDB-CSCA achieves the best classification performance, with the classification accuracy of 96.88%, precision of 97.18%, recall of 97.61%, and F1 score of 97.39%.
Impact of Work from Home and Family Support on Indian Women’s Work Productivity During COVID-19
Authors: Kundra Shradha , Sreen Naman , Dwivedi Rohit
Published: March 2023

The work-from-home practices initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic have caused a paradigmatic shift in how we work. Work from home (WFH) led to an intermingling of the domestic and professional spaces, and the WFH phenomenon has asymmetrically impacted women’s work. In such a scenario, women professionals experience a greater work–life conflict, and the significance of family support comes to the fore. Studying this phenomenon in the Indian context is interesting because the primary responsibility for Indian women lies in the domestic arena. Female Indian professionals are expected to seamlessly fulfil their domestic duties no matter how demanding their job is. The multiplicity of challenges that affect women professionals’ productivity at work only gets compounded when women are expected to work from the domestic sphere where the demand of domestic duties constantly confronts them. Several global scholars have indicated that the burden of domestic duties was greater for women during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the burden of child-care, elderly care and cooking activities increased as outsourcing such activities was not an easily available option during the lockdowns which led to reduced work productivity amongst women. However, this study revealed that Indian female professionals reported better work productivity than female professionals working from their workspace. Indian women are used to fulfilling domestic and professional duties even prior to the pandemic, and Indians perceive greater satisfaction in interpersonal relational experiences rather than individualistic career goals. The study also revealed that family support did not increase when women were working from home, but the increase in family support increased women’s work productivity. Findings also indicate that female professionals with children showed significantly lower work productivity than female professionals (married and unmarried) without children.
Using Bayesian Evidence Synthesis Methods to Incorporate Real-World Evidence in Surrogate Endpoint Evaluation
Authors: Wheaton Lorna , Papanikos Anastasios , Thomas Anne , Bujkiewicz Sylwia
Published: March 2023

Objective

Traditionally, validation of surrogate endpoints has been carried out using randomized controlled trial (RCT) data. However, RCT data may be too limited to validate surrogate endpoints. In this article, we sought to improve the validation of surrogate endpoints with the inclusion of real-world evidence (RWE).

Methods

We use data from comparative RWE (cRWE) and single-arm RWE (sRWE) to supplement RCT evidence for the evaluation of progression-free survival (PFS) as a surrogate endpoint to overall survival (OS) in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Treatment effect estimates from RCTs, cRWE, and matched sRWE, comparing antiangiogenic treatments with chemotherapy, were used to inform surrogacy patterns and predictions of the treatment effect on OS from the treatment effect on PFS.

Results

Seven RCTs, 4 cRWE studies, and 2 matched sRWE studies were identified. The addition of RWE to RCTs reduced the uncertainty around the estimates of the parameters for the surrogate relationship. The addition of RWE to RCTs also improved the accuracy and precision of predictions of the treatment effect on OS obtained using data on the observed effect on PFS.

Conclusion

The addition of RWE to RCT data improved the precision of the parameters describing the surrogate relationship between treatment effects on PFS and OS and the predicted clinical benefit of antiangiogenic therapies in mCRC.

Highlights

Regulatory agencies increasingly rely on surrogate endpoints when making licensing decisions, and for the decisions to be robust, surrogate endpoints need to be validated. In the era of precision medicine, when surrogacy patterns may depend on the drug’s mechanism of action and trials of targeted therapies may be small, data from randomized controlled trials may be limited. Real-world evidence (RWE) is increasingly used at different stages of the drug development process. When used to enhance the evidence base for surrogate endpoint evaluation, RWE can improve inferences about the strength of surrogate relationships and the precision of predicted treatment effect on the final clinical outcome based on the observed effect on the surrogate endpoint in a new trial. Careful selection of RWE is needed to reduce risk of bias.
IgG4-related autoimmune hepatitis: A case report
Authors: Li Yunpeng , Wang Lifeng
Published: March 2023

IgG-4-related autoimmune hepatitis (IgG4-AIH) is a rare disease. We report here a case of IgG4-AIH in an elderly male patient who was admitted to hospital because of unexplained hepatic insufficiency. After excluding viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, drug-induced liver disease, parasitic infection, hepatolenticular degeneration and other diseases, and observing elevated levels of IgG-4, humoral immunity index, abnormal liver disease antibody spectrum and liver biopsy results, we made a diagnosis of IgG4-AIH. Following treatment with prednisone and ursodeoxycholic acid, the patient's liver function improved significantly and the patient was discharged from hospital.
Methodology to Add Value to Ageing Travel Survey Data
Authors: Verreault Hubert , Morency Catherine
Published: March 2023

Over past the several decades, most transportation organizations have gathered a large amount of data through travel surveys. The data they provide is typically used as the basis of their transportation planning and modeling processes. In the province of Quebec, regional household travel surveys take place every 5 to 10 years in the main regions. Conducting large-scale surveys more frequently is not always possible, especially for less populous areas. Relying on old data is, however, becoming increasingly problematic. In this context, it is interesting to explore methods to value historical travel surveys in innovative ways. Based on two travel surveys from the city of Sherbrooke in Quebec, a large-scale regional survey from 2012 and a smaller ad-hoc travel survey from 2019, this paper proposes a methodology for combining the two survey samples. The objective of this process is to benefit from the advantages of both samples: (i) up-to-date travel behaviors from the 2019 survey and (ii) a large and controlled sample size from the 2012 survey. The integration process relies on proportional iterative updating. The descriptive analysis of the two surveys confirmed significant changes in travel behaviors and population had occurred between 2012 and 2019. Despite these differences, the results obtained with the combined samples allow us to reproduce faithfully the trip behaviors and populations of 2019. The proposed method therefore confirms a strong potential to gain better value from historical travel survey data using innovative data combination approaches.
Characterizing a Local Sewage Sludge Ash for Developing Alkali-Activated Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Alhassan Ibrahim , Park Junboum , Tang Xiaochao
Published: March 2023

Production of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) has significant adverse effects on the environment and accounts for 5%–7% of CO2 emissions globally. Geopolymer cement is potentially a sustainable alternative to OPC and is created by the activation of aluminosilicate materials with an alkaline solution that induces geopolymerization, causing gelation of the materials. Sewage sludge ash (SSA) contains relatively high contents of aluminosilicate materials and can be a precursor for geopolymers. This study aims to characterize a local SSA as a precursor to develop geopolymer mortar. Chemical and leaching analysis found no significant adverse environmental implications of the SSA. Strength activity index tests showed that the SSA has a moderate pozzolanic activity. The SSA was then utilized to develop a geopolymer mortar in conjunction with an alkaline solution consisting of sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate. Factors that influence the geopolymerization and strength gain of geopolymers were examined, including the molar ratio between silicon dioxide and sodium oxide and the activator/binder ratio. An optimal activator/binder ratio of 0.22 and a SiO2/Na2O molar ratio of 0.80 were determined to yield the highest compressive strength of the geopolymer mortar.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of filament and fused deposition modelling printed polylactic-acid and carbon-fiber reinforced polylactic-acid
Authors: Shah Adarsh K , Jain Atul
Published: March 2023

Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a popular additive manufacturing method involving the deposition of a molten filament along a specific path. In this paper, the microstructure and properties of the filament and the printed part are compared to understand the microstructure and property evolution during the printing process. Two commonly used materials Poly-lactic acid (PLA) and carbon fiber-reinforced PLA (CF + PLA) are used for the study. A thorough experimental campaign is undertaken to compare different properties including elastic properties (modulus, ultimate tensile strength, strain to failure), fiber length distribution, fiber orientation distribution, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and multiscale characterization of damage/mode of failure. The addition of CF reinforcement led to an increase in Young’s modulus and a reduction of the tensile strength for both the filament as well as printed coupons. There is extensive microstructural change during the printing process with major fiber breakage and increased misalignment. In general, Young’s modulus of the printed part is significantly lower than the filament whereas the strength depends on the printing orientation. Both the filament and printed part display complex modes of failure at multiple length scales. The damage modes for the filament and corresponding printed part are different with a strong dependence on the raster orientation for the latter. XRD confirms somewhat different amorphous behavior for the filament and printed part.
Parking Benefit Districts
Authors: Shoup Donald
Published: March 2023

Where curb parking is overcrowded, drivers who are searching for a rare open curb space congest traffic, pollute the air, and produce carbon dioxide. To avoid these problems, some cities have established Parking Benefit Districts that charge market prices for curb parking and spend the revenue to pay for public services on the metered blocks. A case study of Manhattan’s Upper West Side found that charging market prices for the currently unmetered curb spaces would eliminate 22 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per block per year and yield at least $1,025 per household per year to improve public services.
The Planner’s Pentangle: A Proposal for a Twenty-First-Century Model of Plannin

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Authors: Hirt Sonia A. , Campbell Scott D.
Published: March 2023

The planner’s triangle—the model that visually defined planning as the balance of equity, economy, and environment to achieve sustainability—has influenced theory, practice, and pedagogy for a quarter of a century. We argue that the triangle requires updating. Even if sustainability remains the center of planning’s conceptual model, the vertices must be rethought. We propose a planner’s pentangle with five priorities as vertices: Wellness, Equity, Economy, Environment, and Esthetics (WE4). The pentangle concept represents planning’s history more comprehensively. It also more accurately represents the state of planning in the twenty-first century when health/wellness and cultural/esthetic concerns are increasingly important.
A Computed Tomographic Study of the Premolar Teeth of Babyrousa spp.
Authors: Macdonald Alastair A. , Ziehmer Bianca , Kitchener Andrew C. , Gelang Magnus , Åblad Björn , Lintonsson Ruth , Pückler Kerstin von , Schaub Sebastian , Kiefer Ingmar , Schwarz Tobias
Published: March 2023

A photographic and computed tomography (CT) scanning study was carried out on the premolar teeth of 18 adult male Babyrousa babyrussa skulls, 10 skulls of Babyrousa celebensis, including 6 adult males, 1 adult female, 1 subadult male, 1 subadult female, and 1 juvenile male. The occlusal morphology of the permanent maxillary premolar teeth of B. babyrussa was very similar to that of B. celebensis. Almost all the maxillary third premolar teeth (107/207) had 2 roots, whereas maxillary fourth premolar teeth (108/208) had 3 or 4 roots. All of the mesial tooth roots of 107/207 and 108/208 were tapering rod-like structures; each contained a single pulp canal. Almost all distal roots of 107/207 were “C” shaped and contained 2 pulp canals. The 108/208 palatal roots were “C” shaped and contained 2 pulp canals. The mesial and distal roots of the mandibular third premolar teeth (307/407) teeth were uniformly rod-like, as were the mesial roots of the mandibular fourth premolar teeth (308/408) teeth. The distal roots of the 308/408 teeth were “C” shaped. All B. babyrussa 307/407 teeth have a single pulp canal located in each of the mesial and distal roots. The 308/408 mesial tooth root contained 1 pulp canal. In all but 3 of the 36 distal 308/408 roots of B. babyrussa teeth and in 7 of the 14 distal roots of B. celebensis teeth there was a single pulp canal; in the other 7 teeth there were 2 pulp canals. Each of the 3 medial roots contained 1 pulp canal.
Investigation of real-world emissions of China III and China IV buses in a high-altitude city: A case study of Lhasa
Authors: Lyu Meng , Li Yun , Lyu Meili , Li Boyang , Yang Yanming , Wang Yanfen , Pan Mengyao , Wang Yunjing , Wu Ting , Matthews Ronald
Published: March 2023

Limitations still remain among vehicle emissions standards and regulations about high-altitude areas at altitude over 2400 m. In view of high vehicle-use intensity for buses, on-road measurements were performed on four heavy-duty diesel vehicles by employing a portable emissions measurement system (PEMS) in Lhasa, with an average elevation of approximately 3650 m. The result indicated that under real-world driving conditions of Lhasa, compared with China III buses, China IV buses did not show excellent emission performance consistently. For example, carbon monoxide (CO) emission factor of China III-5.2L buses is 2.4 times of China IV-5.2L buses, while the nitrogen oxides (NOx) is only 36% of China IV-5.2L. Furthermore, an operating mode binning and a micro-trips method are used to link real-world emissions of each vehicle to driving conditions. For China III-5.2L and China IV-5.2L buses, we found strong correlations between relative emission factors of carbon dioxide (CO2) and NOx and average speed. However, these correlations for China IV-7.8L bus were less strong. This phenomenon proves that the role of traffic conditions in affecting road driving emissions would be mitigated when selective catalytic reduction (SCR) functioning properly. This study have potential implications for policymakers concerning vehicle emissions management and control strategies, such as promotion of alternative fuel with in-used buses, aimed at emissions reduction.
Investigations on nonlinear processes of a Gifford-McMahon type orifice pulse tube refrigerator
Authors: Panda Debashis , Kumar Manoj , Satapathy Ashok K , Sarangi S K , Behera Upendra
Published: March 2023

The target of this investigation is to illustrate the nonlinear fluid flow, heat transfer, and vortex formation phenomena in an orifice pulse tube refrigerator by numerical simulation. Numerical results confirm that jet streaming is generated at the low-temperature end of the pulse tube in between the junction of U-shaped tube and pulse tube. The primary vortex, which is generated due to the minor loss, continuously grows because of velocity change and eventually leads to the formation of secondary eddy. Consequently, flow straighteners have been adopted at the hot side of the regenerator, hot heat exchanger, and both sides of U-shaped tube. It is noticed that, jet streaming has been suppressed at the cold end of the pulse tube. Nevertheless, the streaming effect generated due to the oscillating flow of the gas parcels within the pulse tube, and third type of streaming have not been suppressed with the flow-straightener. Additionally, the numerical simulation shows different gas flow behaviors within the pulse tube that occurs due to the oscillating pressure pulse. An experimental investigation is conducted to compare experimental results with the numerical results and a valid agreement is observed between them.
An innovative integrated path planning and trajectory tracking framework for a quadrotor slung load system in an urban environment
Authors: Abeshtan Peyman , Saghafi Fariborz
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a hybrid path planning and trajectory tracking controller for a quadrotor slung load system is presented. This controller has benefited from the fuzzy inference system in its tracking and swing stabilization tasks. This system also plays an important role in creating a grid-based obstacle avoidance method that works based on the concept of generating Non-stationary Artificial Potential Field (NAPF) in the proximity of the objects tracking a virtual target on the path computed by A* algorithm. The weakness of the conventional artificial potential field method, that is to stuck in local minima, is now resolved by this so-called hybrid A*-NAPF method in which the potential field is non-stationary. The A* algorithm as a fast optimal path determination method computes the discrete initial path using a network of grids already generated through transferring the environment to a binary occupancy map. The performance of the whole integrated system is investigated through various simulation scenarios including those with moving obstacles. The results indicate a very good performance with high adaptability characteristic.
Modifications of double-rim geometry to improve thermal performance of squealer tip in a turbine stage
Authors: Yan Xin , Yu Jinxing , He Kun
Published: March 2023

The double-recessed (i.e. double-rim) design is an alternative to improve thermal performance of the squealer tip. In this paper, the aero-thermal performance of double-rim squealer tip in a turbine stage was numerically investigated under engine condition. The heat transfer and film cooling effect between the double-rim squealer tip and conventional squealer tip were compared to show the superior thermal characteristic of double-rim design. The interactions between the leakage flow and coolants were analyzed to address the heat transfer reduction and film cooling improvement for the double-rim configuration. To further reduce the thermal load on double-rim squealer tip, the height and arc length of the inner rim were modified to increase the coolant accumulations in squealer cavities. The results show that the tip and pressure side cooling flow is well attached on the cavity floor and suction side rim of double-rim squealer tip as compared to the conventional squealer tip. With the proper arrangement of inner rim height and arc length, the modified double-recessed squealer tip helps to reduce the area-averaged heat transfer coefficient by 90.3%, and improve the film cooling effectiveness by 49.6%, while the isentropic stage efficiency is almost not affected, as compared to the conventional squealer tip.
Book review: Swati Ganguly, Tagore’s University: A History of Visva Bharati, 1921–1961
Authors: Sen Amiya P.
Published: March 2023

Swati Ganguly, Tagore’s University: A History of Visva Bharati, 1921–1961. Permanent Black, 2022, pp. 432 + Bibliography and Index, ₹1200, ISBN 9788178246406.
What Counts as a Surrogate Decision?
Authors: Levi Benjamin H , Dimmock Anne EF , Van Scoy Lauren J , Smith Theresa , Kunzler Bronson , Foy Andrew J , Badzek Laurie , Green Michael J
Published: March 2023

When patients lose decision-making capacity, others must make surrogate decisions on their behalf. What counts as a surrogate decision might seem self-evident. But as clinician-researchers in the field of advance care planning, we have found that it is not always so clear-cut. In this paper, we describe how and why this is a matter of concern, a novel approach for assessing whether a surrogate decision occurred, and findings from this assessment.
miR-6087 Might Regulate Cell Cycle–Related mRNAs During Cardiomyogenesis of hESCs
Authors: Machado Hellen Cristine , Bispo Saloe , Dallagiovanna Bruno
Published: March 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that act as negative regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, promoting mRNA degradation or translation repression. Despite the well-described presence of miRNAs in various human tissues, there is still a lack of information about the relationship between miRNAs and the translation regulation in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) during cardiomyogenesis. Here, we investigate RNA-seq data from hESCs, focusing on distinct stages of cardiomyogenesis and searching for polysome-bound miRNAs that could be involved in translational regulation. We identify miR-6087 as a differentially expressed miRNA at latest steps of cardiomyocyte differentiation. We analyzed the coexpression pattern between the differentially expressed mRNAs and miR-6087, evaluating whether they are predicted targets of the miRNA. We arranged the genes into an interaction network and identified BLM, RFC4, RFC3, and CCNA2 as key genes of the network. A post hoc analysis of the key genes suggests that miR-6087 could act as a regulator of the cell cycle in hESC during cardiomyogenesis.
Autism community priorities in diverse low-resource settings: A country-wide scoping exercise in India
Authors: Dey Ipsita , Chakrabarty Sreerupa , Nandi Rajanya , Shekhar Rakshita , Singhi Sakhi , Nayar Shoba , Ram Jai Ranjan , Mukerji Shaneel , Chakrabarti Bhismadev
Published: March 2023

While studies to map the priorities of the autistic community have been undertaken in some high-income countries, there has been little or no such systematic assessment in the global south. India alone is home to an estimated >5 million autistic individuals. To address this gap in the literature, this study conducted a survey of the Indian autism community on their priorities for three areas: skills training, intervention and research. Individuals with a clinical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders and parents/guardians of autistic individuals were invited to take part in the study. Data from 280 respondents were collected online and followed up with interviews on a subset ( n = 40) chosen through stratified random selection. Results highlighted a unanimous prioritisation for self-help skills as the most important area in skills training, as it was considered the foundation for acquiring all other skills. Speech and language therapy was identified as the most important intervention for autistic individuals. Within research, identifying the most effective ways for the community to support autistic people was given the topmost priority. Researchers, clinicians and policymakers may use these insights to develop services and shape future research that is more in accord with the community’s needs.

Lay abstract

It is vital to directly engage with the autism community in order to develop better services and drive the research agenda. While some studies in high-income countries have mapped the priorities of the autism community, there is a severe dearth of such efforts in the global south. Five million autistic individuals are estimated to live in India alone, and there has been little effort to map their priorities. Moreover, studies in high-income countries focused largely on research priorities, and not so much on skills training and interventions. Keeping these needs in mind, we conducted an online survey followed by an in-depth conversation with parents of autistic children and autistic adults drawn from across India. We found that the respondents reported self-help skills to be the most important for training, as they considered it fundamental for every other aspect of life. Speech and language therapy was considered to be the highest intervention priority for this group, highlighting the importance of social communication. Mental health counselling was also considered to be a high priority, but several parents identified it as being more relevant for themselves rather than for their children. Within research, the topmost priority was to understand ways in which the community can better support autistic people. We hope that these findings will help researchers, policymakers and service providers to be able to make well-informed decisions, develop relevant services and shape future research.
The semiotics of digital cartography at the Geoguessr interface: A practice-oriented case study
Authors: Berners-Lee Ben
Published: March 2023

In digital cartography, Google Maps and Google Street View (GSV) are often used side-by-side at the computer interface. This study consists of an analysis of recordings of Geoguessr, an online game that presents players with GSV imagery and challenges them to guess the location of the images on a digital map. Gameplay requires semiotic moves that put the diagrammatic signs of the GSV images and the map into a dynamic interplay. By specifying these practices, the present analysis offers a processual, practice-oriented perspective on theoretical debates in the study of digital mapping. Rather than existing a priori, the constructed or transparent nature of the map, as well as the kind of cartographical subject involved in manipulations of the map both emerge and change through the practical use of the two representations. Furthermore, the abductive inferences that characterize particular moments of gameplay constitute an intersection of reasoning and play.
Feasibility of Healthy Beverages Policies in American Samoa and Federated States of Micronesia: Water and Coconut Water Only Community Interventions
Authors: Sy Angela , Tareg Aileen , Nitta Mavis , Navasca Dioreme , Tofaeono Va’atausili , Ching Marilyn Ho , Palik Evelyn , Shomour Inou , Shomour Moria , Tolenoa Nena , Palafox Neal
Published: March 2023

American Samoa and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) are two small Pacific Island nations that have some of the highest noncommunicable disease (NCD) mortality rates in the world. Supported by church leaders to address obesity as an NCD risk factor, American Samoa, and Chuuk and Kosrae States of FSM selected the implementation of healthy beverages as a nutrition intervention through a water- and coconut water-only pledge in church events. The consumption of water and coconut water was tracked. Across 105 church events in the three jurisdictions, the count of water bottles before and after events decreased from 142.8 to 22.3, the number of coconuts before and after events decreased from 19.6 to 1.2, and cups of water before and after events decreased from 52.9 to 7.6. The promotion of healthy beverages in church settings holds promise in the Pacific as a feasible, accessible, and culturally responsive nutrition approach, given limited access to other nutritional alternatives, e.g., fresh fruits and vegetables. Supplemental health promotion messaging to maintain knowledge and attitudes about healthy is recommended for future scaling up.
Laparoscopic Nissen Versus Toupet Fundoplication for Short- and Long-Term Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Li Gen , Jiang Ning , Chendaer Nuerboli , Hao Yingtao , Zhang Weiquan , Peng Chuanliang
Published: March 2023

Background

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is the most common standard technique worldwidely for Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Another type of fundoplication, laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF), intends to reduce incidence of postoperative complications. A systematic review and meta-analysis are required on short- and long-term outcomes based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) between LNF and LTF.

Methods

We searched databases including PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Knowledge for RCTs comparing LNF and LTF. Outcomes included postoperative reflux recurrence, postoperative heartburn, dysphagia and postoperative chest pain, inability to belch, gas bloating, satisfaction with intervention, postoperative esophagitis, postoperative DeMeester scores, operating time (min), in-hospital complications, postoperative use of proton pump inhibitors, reoperation rate, postoperative lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) pressure (mmHg). We assessed data using risk ratios and weighted mean differences in meta-analyses.

Results

Eight eligible RCTs comparing LNF (n = 605) and LTF (n = 607) were identified. There were no significant differences between the LNF and LTF in terms of postoperative reflux recurrence, postoperative heartburn, postoperative chest pain, satisfaction with intervention, reoperation rate in short and long term, in-hospital complications, esophagitis in short term, and gas bloating, postoperative DeMeester scores, postoperative use of proton pump inhibitors, reoperation rate in long term. LTF had lower LOS pressure (mmHg), fewer postoperative dysphagia and inability to belch in short and long term and gas bloating in short term compared to LNF.

Conclusion

LTF were equally effective at controlling reflux symptoms and improving the quality of life, but with lower rate of complications compared to LNF. We concluded that LTF surgical treatment was superior for over 16 years old patients with typical symptoms of GERD and without upper abdominal surgical history upon high-level evidence of evidence-based medicine.
Effects of Preexisting Anxiety and Depression on Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Aged 30 Years and Younger Following Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Johnson Andrea H. , Levermore Sandra B. , Maley Alyssa D. , Turcotte Justin J. , Petre Benjamin M.
Published: March 2023

Background: Mental health influences postoperative outcomes in orthopedic procedures. Increasing attention is being paid to this effect. Purpose: We sought to evaluate the effect of diagnosed depression, anxiety, or both on postoperative outcomes in patients who have undergone hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 289 patients aged 30 years or younger who underwent hip arthroscopy for FAIS at a single institution from January 2014 to June 2021. Univariate statistics were used to assess differences between patients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or both, and those without these diagnoses. Differences included demographics, operative characteristics, and postoperative outcomes: duration of postanesthesia care unit (PACU) stay, PACU pain scores, complications, reoperations, postoperative injections, 90-day emergency department (ED) visits, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate risk factors for postoperative complications, including wound infection, documented reinjury, postoperative intra-articular hip injection, and any reoperation. Results: Patients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or both were more likely to be older, female, and have a higher comorbidity burden. At the time of surgery, they were more likely to undergo concomitant procedures, including bursectomy and iliotibial band release. Postoperatively, they had longer PACU stays (90.5 vs 75.1 minutes) and higher first PACU pain scores (5.9 vs 4.6), as well as higher rates of postoperative injection (18.1 vs 9.2%), any reoperation (13.9% vs 4.6%), and revision hip arthroscopy (11.1% vs. 3.7%). Diagnoses of depression, anxiety, or both were independently predictive of any reoperation (odds ratio [OR] = 2.841) and revision hip arthroscopy (OR = 3.401). Conclusion: This retrospective cohort study found that, in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS, there was an association between a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, or both, and increased comorbidities, higher first PACU pain scores, longer PACU stays, and increased rates of postoperative injection, any reoperation, or revision hip arthroscopy. Targeted interventions may improve outcomes, but further study is warranted.
How autistic adults’ priorities for autism research differ by gender identity: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Putnam Orla C , Eddy Genessa , Goldblum Jessica , Swisher Madison , Harrop Clare
Published: March 2023

Background:

Recent studies suggest that the funding breakdown of autism research in the United States may not align with stakeholder priorities. Furthermore, the majority of stakeholder-engaged research involves parents of autistic individuals rather than autistic adults themselves, who may have differing perspectives on research and funding priorities. Women and non-binary adults have been historically underrepresented in autism research.

Objectives:

The goal of the current study was to examine the autism research priorities of a group of autistic adults, with a particular focus on how these priorities are influenced by one’s gender identity.

Design:

A concurrent mixed-methods design was used for this study.

Methods:

Seventy-one autistic adults ( n  = 18 men, n = 29 women, n = 24 non-binary adults) completed an online survey regarding the current funding landscape for autism research. Participants ranked the main research topics of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) and identified top-priority research areas through free-text responses. Response themes were analyzed using content analysis and compared with the existing topic rankings.

Results:

Overall rankings of IACC research areas had a near inverse relationship with the amount of funding per research area. Main themes of stakeholder-generated research topics included “Characterization,” “Societal Change,” “Well-Being & Trauma,” “Diagnosis & Healthcare,” and “Accessibility & Services.” There was a relatively high overlap between topics identified by the IACC and by the stakeholder-generated topics. Subtle but important differences in topics arose based on gender, with women and non-binary adults identifying topics that were not identified by autistic men.

Conclusion:

Unique priorities generated by those typically excluded from autism research development underscore the importance of co-creating research with underrepresented stakeholders impacted by this work. The current study echoes the growing movement in the field of autism research to center autistic perspectives at every stage of research, including the establishment of funding priorities.
Identification of high-risk symptom cluster burden group among midlife peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women with metabolic syndrome using latent class growth analysis
Authors: Min Se Hee , Docherty Sharron L , Im Eun-Ok , Hu Xiao , Hatch Daniel , Yang Qing
Published: March 2023

Background:

Midlife peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women with metabolic syndrome experience multiple co-occurring symptoms or symptom clusters, which often result in significant symptom cluster burden. While they are a high-risk symptom burden group, there are no studies that have focused on identifying symptom cluster trajectories in midlife peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women with metabolic syndrome.

Objectives:

The objectives were to identify meaningful subgroups of midlife peri-menopausal and post-menopausal women with metabolic syndrome based on their distinct symptom cluster burden trajectories, and to describe the demographic, social, and clinical characteristics of different symptom cluster burden subgroups.

Design:

This is a secondary data analysis using the longitudinal data from Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation.

Methods:

Multi-trajectory analysis using latent class growth analysis was conducted to join the different developmental trajectories of symptom clusters to identify meaningful subgroups and high-risk subgroup for greater symptom cluster burden over time. Then, descriptive statistics were used to explain the demographic characteristics of each symptom cluster trajectory subgroup, and bivariate analysis to examine the association between each symptom cluster trajectory subgroup and demographic characteristics.

Results:

A total of four classes were identified: Class 1 (low symptom cluster burden), Classes 2 and 3 (moderate symptom cluster burden), and Class 4 (high symptom cluster burden). Social support was a significant predictor of high symptom cluster burden subgroup and highlights the need to provide routine assessment.

Conclusion:

An understanding and appreciation for the different symptom cluster trajectory subgroups and their dynamic nature will assist clinicians to offer targeted and routine symptom cluster assessment and management in clinical settings.
Exercise medicine considerations for pregnancy-associated breast cancer: Characteristics, prognosis and treatment
Authors: Fleay Brianna , Singh Favil , Saunders Christobel , Taaffe Dennis R , Galvão Daniel A , Newton Robert U , Fox-Harding Caitlin
Published: March 2023

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women worldwide and is the most common cancer diagnosis made during pregnancy or in the postpartum period. When breast cancer is diagnosed either during pregnancy or in the first-year postpartum, it is referred to as pregnancy-associated breast cancer. The aim of this review is to assess existing literature regarding the recommendations and outcomes of participating in exercise for people with pregnancy-associated breast cancer. The occurrence of pregnancy-associated breast cancer is increasing as a growing number of women delay first pregnancies. Women undergoing treatment for pregnancy-associated breast cancer are dealing with both cancer and its treatment as well as a pregnancy or postpartum period, and often encounter symptoms associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment, such as nausea, pain and fatigue while simultaneously navigating a pregnancy or early motherhood. These experiences can be barriers to participating in exercise, despite exercise being associated with numerous benefits for both pregnancy health and breast cancer outcomes. Numerous studies report the benefits of exercising during breast cancer treatment in ameliorating associated symptoms, and some studies report that engaging in exercise can lead to healthier and lower risk pregnancies. However, there is a lack of consensus around appropriate exercise programmes for this specific population. Given the associated benefits of participating in exercise for both breast cancer patients and pregnant/postpartum women as separate groups, research into exercise medicine designed specifically for the pregnancy-associated breast cancer population is needed.
Determinants of pelvic organ prolapse among gynecologic patients, Northeastern Ethiopia, 2020: A case–control study
Authors: Edmealem Afework , Ademe Sewunet , W/Selassie Mulugeta
Published: March 2023

Background:

The majority of women in developing countries, including Ethiopia, do not seek medical help; as a result, they face substantial impacts on their health. There is a lack of attention to screening women at high risk for pelvic organ prolapse. Identifying the determinants of pelvic organ prolapse is essential for the early screening and prevention of adverse health outcomes in women.

Objectives:

To identify the determinants of pelvic organ prolapse among gynecologic patients at Akesta Hospital, 2020.

Design:

An unmatched case–control study was conducted among 70 cases and 140 controls.

Methods:

The study participants were selected using a systematic sampling technique. Data were collected by reviewing patient charts. The data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Text, tables, and figures were used for data presentation. P values less than 0.2 in binary logistic regression were entered in multivariable logistic regression. Finally, P values less than 0.05 were considered significant factors for the determinants of pelvic organ prolapse.

Results:

A total of 189 respondents participated in the study. Of the total respondents, 63 were cases and 126 were controls. Patients whose parity was four or above developed pelvic organ prolapse three times more likely than those whose parity number was less than four (adjusted odds ratio = 3.05; 95% confidence interval: 1.35–6.90; P = 0.007). Patients who are overweight are 8.5 times more likely to develop pelvic organ prolapse than patients with normal weight (adjusted odds ratio = 8.5, 95% confidence interval: 2.75–26.51; P = 0.001). Patients with a history of intestinal obstruction were five times more likely to develop pelvic organ prolapse than their counterparts (adjusted odds ratio = 4.87, 95% confidence interval: 1.61–14.75, P = 0.005).

Conclusion:

Educational level, being overweight, having four parities and above, minimum duration of labor, history of urinary retention, and intestinal obstruction were determinants of pelvic organ prolapse. Screening should target women with illiteracy, overweight, and whose parity is four and above. Early diagnosis and treatment of urinary retention and intestinal obstruction should be provided to women with pelvic organ prolapse.
Additional substitutions in elite European football
Authors: Meyer Johannes , Klatt Stefanie
Published: March 2023

In 2020, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) introduced a temporary rule amendment of two additional substitutions in regular time. In this study, we assess the impact of this rule change with regard to player relief, tactical influence by the coaches and the development of young players. Data were collected from 3652 matches from the top 5 leagues in the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) rankings and 659 UEFA club competition matches (Champions League and Europa League) in 2 different seasons (pre-rule amendment: 2018/2019 vs. post-rule amendment: 2020/2021), comparing leagues that introduced two additional substitutions with those that did not. The results show that with two additional substitutions, the reduction in player load was increased by 46%. Despite being used infrequently, the rule change resulted in 45% more substitutions and, therefore, greater tactical influence by the coaches. Furthermore, two additional substitutions benefit young players’ development with an 81% increase in playing time. While the aim of the temporary amendment to the laws of the game was achieved with the additional substitutions by compensating for the increased load on the players, coaches’ substitution behaviour shows potential for improvement.
A transcriptomics approach to expand therapeutic options and optimize clinical trials in oncology
Authors: Lazar Vladimir , Zhang Baolin , Magidi Shai , Le Tourneau Christophe , Raymond Eric , Ducreux Michel , Bresson Catherine , Raynaud Jacques , Wunder Fanny , Onn Amir , Felip Enriqueta , Tabernero Josep , Batist Gerald , Kurzrock Razelle , Rubin Eitan , Schilsky Richard L.
Published: March 2023

Background:

The current model of clinical drug development in oncology displays major limitations due to a high attrition rate in patient enrollment in early phase trials and a high failure rate of drugs in phase III studies.

Objective:

Integrating transcriptomics for selection of patients has the potential to achieve enhanced speed and efficacy of precision oncology trials for any targeted therapies or immunotherapies.

Methods:

Relative gene expression level in the metastasis and normal organ-matched tissues from the WINTHER database was used to estimate in silico the potential clinical benefit of specific treatments in a variety of metastatic solid tumors.

Results:

As example, high mRNA expression in tumor tissue compared to analogous normal tissue of c-MET and its ligand HGF correlated in silico with shorter overall survival (OS; p < 0.0001) and may constitute an independent prognostic marker for outcome of patients with metastatic solid tumors, suggesting a strategy to identify patients most likely to benefit from MET-targeted treatments. The prognostic value of gene expression of several immune therapy targets (PD-L1, CTLA4, TIM3, TIGIT, LAG3, TLR4) was investigated in non-small-cell lung cancers and colorectal cancers (CRCs) and may be useful to optimize the development of their inhibitors, and opening new avenues such as use of anti-TLR4 in treatment of patients with metastatic CRC.

Conclusion:

This in silico approach is expected to dramatically decrease the attrition of patient enrollment and to simultaneously increase the speed and detection of early signs of efficacy. The model may significantly contribute to lower toxicities. Altogether, our model aims to overcome the limits of current approaches.