bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role and Mechanism of miR-181a-5p in Mice with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease by Regulating HMGB1 and the NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Zhang Manyan , Lu Yu , Liu Lingling , Zhang Xiaoyan , Ning Jiyu
Published: January 2022

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common respiratory disease. This study explored the mechanism of miR-181a-5p in the inflammatory response in COPD mice. COPD mouse models were established by cigarette smoke (CS) exposure following pretreatment with recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAv)-miR-181a-5p, si-HMGB1 (high mobility group box 1), and NF-κB pathway inhibitor PDTC, respectively. Pathological changes of lung tissues were determined by HE staining. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected to count total cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes using a Countess II automatic cell counter. Expressions of neutrophil elastase (NE) and inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IFN-γ) were detected by ELISA. Binding relationship between miR-181a-5p and HMGB1 was predicted on starBase and validated by dual-luciferase assay. miR-181a-5p expression was detected by RT-qPCR, and expressions of HMGB1, IκBα, and p-IκBα were detected by western blot. The expression level of miR-181a-5p was lower in lung tissues. miR-181a-5p overexpression alleviated inflammatory response and pathological changes of lung tissues in COPD mice, with decreased pulmonary inflammation scores, total cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes and expressions of NE and inflammatory factors. HMGB1 expression level was increased in COPD mice. miR-181a-5p targeted HMGB1. si-HMGB1 relieved inflammatory responses in COPD mice. NF-κB was activated in COPD mice, evidenced by degraded IκBα and increased p-IκBα levels. si-HMGB1 significantly restrained the activation of NF-κB pathway. Briefly, miR-181a-5p targets HMGB1 to inhibit the NF-κB pathway, thus alleviating the inflammatory response in COPD mice.
A Descriptive Evaluation of Health Literacy and Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance among Patients with IgA Nephropathy with High Vaccine Uptake
Authors: Lim Cynthia Ciwei , Mok Irene Y.J. , Leeu Jun Jie , Liew Zhong Hong , Tan Hui Zhuan , Chin Yok Mooi , Teng Wei Ling , Yeo Fiona , Tan Chieh Suai , Choo Jason C.J.
Published: January 2022

Aims: Shared decision-making regarding COVID-19 vaccination in IgA nephropathy involves the ability to handle health information regarding potential benefits and risk of flare, but few studies have evaluated health literacy in the context of vaccination. We aimed to evaluate the health literacy and COVID-19 vaccination uptake and acceptance in IgA nephropathy. Methods: Single-center cross-sectional study of 126 consecutive patients with IgA nephropathy. Health literacy was assessed using the HLS-EU-47 questionnaire. Determinants of vaccine acceptance such as contextual influences, individual and group influences, and vaccine-specific issues were adapted from the World Health Organization framework. Results: Forty-eight patients (38.1%) with IgAN nephropathy completed the survey between June and August 2021. The participants’ median age was 40.5 (31.6, 52.8) years with median disease duration of 2.8 (1.3, 4.3) years. The median general health literacy index was 31.74 (29.88, 35.82) with significantly greater difficulty in the competency of appraising health information and in the domain of disease prevention (p < 0.001). Forty-five patients (93.8%) received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine between January and August 2021. Among the 3 unvaccinated patients, 2 intended to receive the vaccination while and 1 did not intend to get vaccinated. There was a high level of trust and belief that their government and healthcare providers had their best interests at heart and that the healthcare providers were honest about the vaccine’s risk and benefits, although 31.2% did not understand how the vaccine works and 22.9% believed that there were other ways to prevent infection. Most thought there was adequate safety information, were confident in the system for tracking adverse events and had no issues with access to the vaccine. Conclusion: Participants with IgA nephropathy had high health literacy scores and low vaccine hesitancy. The determinants for vaccine acceptance can potentially guide efforts to optimize vaccination coverage.
Sex Differences in Health Status and Clinical Outcomes After Nonprimary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Hiremath Pranoti G. , Aversano Thomas , Spertus John A. , Lemmon Cynthia C. , Naiman Daniel Q. , Czarny Matthew J.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Greater insight into sex-based differences in health status can lay the foundation for more equitable health care. This study compares differences in health status of women and men in the CPORT-E trial (Cardiovascular Patient Outcomes Research Team Non-Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention) undergoing nonprimary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods:

We compared Seattle Angina Questionnaire scores at baseline, 6 weeks, and 9 months for 6851 women and 12 016 men undergoing nonprimary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Results:

Proportions of angina-free patients increased from 26.2% and 29.8% at baseline to 71.6% and 78.7% at 6 weeks to 78.1% and 83.0% at 9 months in women and men, respectively (
P
<0.001 for all). After adjusting for clinical and procedural characteristics as well as baseline angina, freedom from angina in women was 34% less likely at 6 weeks (odds ratio, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.61–0.71];
P
<0.001) and 32% less likely at 9 months (odds ratio, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.62–0.74];
P
<0.001) compared with men.

Conclusions:

Although health status increased significantly after percutaneous coronary intervention in both women and men, women had poorer health status outcomes than men before and after percutaneous coronary intervention. Additional investigation into therapies that address the causes of poorer health status in women with coronary artery disease is needed.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00549796.
Underutilization of Endovascular Therapy in Black Patients With Ischemic Stroke: An Analysis of State and Nationwide Cohorts
Authors: Kim Youngran , Sharrief Anjail , Kwak Min Ji , Khose Swapnil , Abdelkhaleq Rania , Salazar-Marioni Sergio , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Sheth Sunil A.
Published: January 2022

Background and Purpose:

Endovascular therapy (EVT) is a very effective treatment but relies on specialized capabilities that are not available in every hospital where acute ischemic stroke is treated. Here, we assess whether access to and utilization of this therapy has extended uniformly across racial and ethnic groups.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective, population-based study using the 2019 Texas Inpatient Public Use Data File. Acute ischemic stroke cases and EVT use were identified using the
International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10
) diagnosis and procedure codes. We examined EVT utilization by race/ethnicity and performed patient- and hospital-level analyses. To validate state-specific findings, we conducted patient-level analyses using the 2017 National Inpatient Sample for national estimates. To assess independent associations between race/ethnicity and EVT, multivariable modified Poisson regressions were fitted and adjusted relative risks were estimated accounting for patient risk factors and socioeconomic characteristics.

Results:

Among 40 814 acute ischemic stroke cases in Texas in 2019, 54% were White, 17% Black, and 21% Hispanic. Black patients had similar admissions to EVT-performing hospitals and greater admissions to comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs) compared with White patients (EVT 62% versus 62%,
P
=0.21; CSCs 45% versus 39%,
P
<0.001) but had lower EVT rates (4.1% versus 5.3%; adjusted relative risk, 0.76 [0.66–0.88];
P
<0.001). There were no differences in EVT rates between Hispanic and White patients. Lower rates of EVT among Black patients were consistent in the subgroup of patients who arrived in early time windows and received intravenous recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (adjusted relative risk, 0.77 [0.61–0.98];
P
=0.032) and the subgroup of those admitted to EVT-performing hospitals in both non-CSC (3.0% versus 5.5,
P
<0.001) and CSC hospitals (7.9% versus 10.4%,
P
<0.001) while there were no differences between Whites and Hispanic patients. Nationwide sample data confirmed this finding of lower utilization of EVT among Black patients (adjusted relative risk, 0.87 [0.77–0.98];
P
=0.024).

Conclusions:

We found no evidence of disparity in presentation to EVT-performing hospitals or CSCs; however, lower rates of EVT were observed in Black patients.
Using NOAA Satellite Imagery to Detect and Track Hazardous Sea Spray in the High Latitudes
Authors: Line William E. , Grasso Lewis , Hillger Don , Dierking Carl , Jacobs Aaron , Shea Samuel
Published: January 2022

Sea spray presents a significant hazard to vessels in the high latitudes. At issue is the accumulation of ice, which can destabilize, and at times, sink a ship. Many studies have focused on icing prediction systems, but a knowledge gap exists in the detection of sea spray using remote sensing data. The recent availability of data from new and advanced imagers on board NOAA satellites, specifically the GOES-R series Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) and JPSS Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS), offers new tools for the detection and tracking of sea spray for forecasters. While ABI provides superior temporal coverage in order to capture the near-real-time evolution of sea spray, VIIRS contributes higher spatial detail, allowing for improved analysis of sea spray extent, particularly within smaller bodies of water. Forecasters can implement these detection techniques to help verify sea spray–related forecast products, and to pass along potentially life-saving information to their mariner core partners. This paper discusses the freezing sea spray hazard, and introduces newly identified methods for detecting and tracking sea spray using NOAA satellite data.
Providing Choice-Making Opportunities to Students With Autism During Instruction
Authors: White Allison N. , Oteto Noel E. , Brodhead Matthew T.
Published: January 2022

One antecedent-based intervention – choice-making opportunities – is an easy and effective way to motivate students with autism to stay on task, complete academic tasks, and engage in appropriate behavior during academic instruction. The purpose of this article is to discuss three main methods for incorporating choice-making opportunities and describe how educators of students with autism can incorporate choice-making opportunities during academic instruction. Seven steps for implementing choice-making opportunities and examples of how to implement choice-making opportunities during instruction are provided. We intend for readers to: (1) read and comprehend the three methods for implementing choice-making opportunities during instruction, (2) apply the seven steps when implementing choice-making, and (3) use the tables as guide when implementing choice-making during instruction.
Children's Access to Books, Libraries, and Storybook Reading: Survey of Mothers at a Family Homeless Shelter
Authors: Fagan Mary K.
Published: January 2022

Access to books and storybook reading contribute to children's language, literacy and academic development. Homeless children often experience delays in these areas of development; however, their access to books and storybook reading is understudied. This study of 24 children in a family homeless shelter and 27 housed children in the same urban neighborhood found homeless children had fewer books, visited libraries less often, were unlikely to have library cards, and fewer were read to daily. Identifying these disparities has implications for reducing the inequalities and developmental risks often associated with childhood homelessness and associated challenges for schools that educate them.
The Mizrahi Pillar of Fire: memory policy-actors’ perceptions of the role of media and memory
Authors: Tirosh Noam
Published: January 2022

Memory and questions about its formation are subjects of considerable attention. Nevertheless, memory actors promoting narratives about the past are often sidelined and ignored, and studies exploring questions regarding the relationships between memory actors and available media and communication technologies are scarce despite the importance of such tools. This study attempts to fill this theoretical gap by analyzing a unique case study from Israel – the work of memory policy-actors on a governmental expert committee that made various recommendations for empowering the Mizrahi communities in Israel and to promote the Mizrahi right to memory.. Among other recommendations, most notable was the recommendation to produce a new documentary series, The Mizrahi Pillar of Fire, that would counter the Mizrahi narrative’s ongoing marginalization. This unique recommendation raises intriguing questions on how memory actors perceived different media’s roles in creating, portraying, and disseminating memory. By conducting in-depth interviews with committee members and a close analysis of the final committee report and related official documents, this study highlights how actors’ perceptions about media and memory shaped the recommendation to produce a new documentary series. Thus it contributes to scholars interested in understanding the relationship between memory actors, media, and how a society’s memory is constructed.
Is surgical myectomy challenged by emergence of novel drug therapy with mavacamten?
Authors: Maron Martin S , Rowin Ethan J , Maron Barry J
Published: January 2022

For 60 years, surgical myectomy has been the definitive treatment for symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Myectomy provides the opportunity to reverse heart failure symptoms in the vast majority of patient with low risk when performed in experienced centers and associated with extended longevity. More recently, a novel class of negative inotropic drug therapy with mavacamten has emerged offering expanded treatment options for obstructive HCM. In the recently completed phase III clinical trial, the EXPLORER-HCM about one-third of patients on mavacamten achieved the primary end-point of subjective symptomatic improvement and increased functional capacity assessed by peak VO2. Of note, outflow gradients persistent in 43% of patients on mavacamten and 50% with symptoms consistent with NYHA class II or greater. A subset of patients also experienced significant reversible systolic dysfunction. Therefore, it is timely to place into perspective the potential role of mavacamten in context of the established low risk: high benefit of surgical myectomy for treatment of heart failure.
Effects of straw phonation on choral acoustic and perceptual measures after an acclimation period
Authors: Manternach Jeremy N , Kotsonis Amy , Mann Lesley Maxwell
Published: January 2022

A single session of vocalizing through a straw (straw phonation) has been associated with consistent or increased acoustic output and chorister-reported improved choral sound and vocal efficiency. Some choristers, however, report discomfort from the intense pressure of vocalizing through a stirring straw (2.5–3.0 mm opening). It is unclear whether participants acclimate to this pressure over time. Two mixed and two treble choirs sang a unison melody, participated in a straw protocol, and sang the melody again. Choristers used the protocol during warmups in four subsequent rehearsals and repeated the same pretest-posttest protocols on the final day. Survey results indicated (a) at least 89.7% of participants self-reported improved choral sound and more efficient/comfortable individual voicing after the protocols on both data collection days, and (b) participants reported greater impact on their warmup on the final day. Analyses revealed (a) choirs sang with 1.35 to 3.37 dB SPL greater mean spectral energy after the protocols on the first day and 1.63 to 2.65 dB SPL on the final day, and (b) one choir evidenced less change on the final day, one evidenced more change, and two evidenced no statistical difference. These results may represent a modest acclimation effect for choristers using straw phonation.
Association of urine output during cardiopulmonary bypass and postoperative acute kidney injury in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft
Authors: Khademi Saeed , Mehr Leila Shojaei , Janati Mansour , Jouybar Reza , Dehghanpisheh Laleh
Published: January 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We investigated the association of urine output (U/O) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with postoperative AKI in a cohort of patients undergoing elective CABG.

This single-center retrospective study used data from patients undergoing elective CABG with CPB (March 2015 to March 2020). Demographic data and perioperative information were extracted from the Patients' records. Urine output during CPB and in the first 3 days after surgery was also recorded. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) classification. Spearman’s correlation analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between quantitative variables and multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to determine AKI predictors.

A total of 532 patients with a mean age of 56.83 ± 7.99 years were analyzed. In the first 48 h after surgery, the incidence of AKI was 18%, of which, 7 (2.7%) patients developed stage II of AKI. There was no significant correlation between U/O during CPB and change in postoperative blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Oliguria during CPB was not observed in any of the patients. Age and duration of bypass were identified as predictors of AKI.

In this study, the incidence of AKI was 18% and there was no significant correlation between U/O during CPB and changes in postoperative BUN and creatinine. Age and duration of bypass were independent risk factors of AKI.
Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia with atypical vein thrombosis: Implications for clinical practice
Authors: Zamboni Paolo , Scerrati Alba , Sessa Francesco , Pomara Cristoforo , Mannucci Pier Mannuccio
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a new and rare syndrome resulting from the largest vaccination campaign against SARS-CoV-2 in the history of mankind. The aim of this review is to clarify underlying mechanisms, pathology, diagnosis, and therapy, with the related clinical implications.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive literature review in order to collect the clinical and treatment data about patients suffering from VITT. PubMed, Ovid Medline, Ovid EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science were screened regarding patients who developed VITT. Last search was launched on June 30th 2021.

Results

Abdominal and/or neurological symptoms develop between 5 and 20 days after vaccine administration and do not involve the lower extremities. VITT is suspected if the platelet count is lower than 100.000/mm3 and D-dimer is higher than the age-adjusted range. Medical treatment is mainly based on intravenous immunoglobulins, corticosteroids, and anticoagulant drugs with a short plasma half-life, but the complete avoidance of low molecular weight heparin is recommended. Endovascular treatment and/or decompressive craniectomy might be an option in a minority of cases.

Conclusion

Due to widespread vaccination concerns, the vascular specialist and phlebologist are increasingly consulted to prevent or diagnose VITT. The latter has peculiar and completely different localizations, symptoms, and treatment compared to the common pictures of venous thrombosis.
Bringing borders back into cross-border regional innovation systems: Functions and dynamics
Authors: Cappellano Francesco , Sohn Christophe , Makkonen Teemu , Kaisto Virpi
Published: January 2022

International boundaries have been mainly considered as barriers in literature on the ‘cross-border regional innovation system’ (CBRIS), in line with their traditional understanding. In this paper, we underline that such a perspective presents limits, and argue in favour of an understanding of multidimensional borders that are subject to dynamic change over time. By mobilizing conceptualizations from the field of border studies, we examine the various functions of borders to explain the innovation-led development potential in cross-border regions. In this view, international borders can function as an interface, a marker of difference or a symbol, rather than a mere barrier that separates regions. Further, we suggest that these border functions are key factors in explaining the ‘fluctuating’ integration dynamics of regional innovation systems across the border. Mobilizing evidence from two case studies in European and North American contexts, the paper sheds light on the border as a potential resource for innovation and discusses implications for future research.
Multi-physics simulation study of microwave hybrid sintering of aluminium and mechanical characteristics
Authors: Bhoi Neeraj Kumar , Patel Deepak Kumar , Singh Harpreet , Pratap Saurabh , Jain Pramod K
Published: January 2022

In the present study, a finite element model of microwave hybrid sintering along with experimental validation was developed. Multiphysics simulation at 2.45 GHz was carried out to understand the heat transfer behaviour and electric field distribution during the microwave hybrid sintering process. The proposed work presents an innovative and integrated approach for sintering aluminium utilizing microwave energy. Comparison with numerical simulation results and experimental data of temperature variation during microwave hybrid sintering was done. The maximum error predicted by the simulation model and experimental investigation for temperature variation in sintering was found to be within 10%. The X-ray diffraction analysis, relative density and microstructure analysis of the sintered aluminium was done to gain an insight into the material characteristics. The microhardness and nanoindentation tests were carried out to determine the hardness and elastic modulus. Good consolidation behaviour of aluminium with an achieved density of 0.9774, microhardness of 36Hv, nano-hardness as 0.5664 GPa and 57.301 GPa elastic modulus value has been observed. The study will develop a cogent link between the numerical model and experimental data for microwave hybrid sintering.
Evaluation of Flame Propagation Speed in a System of Random Discrete Sources for Spherical Particles in a Three-Dimensional Space
Authors: Gilanian Sadeghi Faraz , Moghadasi Hesam , Malekian Navid , Bidabadi Mehdi
Published: January 2022

Realistic estimation of combustion phenomenon can be achieved by considering a random distribution for the particles instead of uniform distribution. Hence, in this study, theoretical investigation of aluminum particles combustion is studied three dimensionally with the consideration of random dispersion for discrete sources. Moreover, flame propagation speed is predicted through a proposed thermal model in a reaction medium. In addition, it is inferred that the propagation speed of the flame is a function of concentration and diameter of aluminum dust; while the minimum ignition energy is a function of particle diameter and equivalence ratio. A suitable prediction of the model is concluded by comparing the obtained results with the experimental and analytical data.
A RSM based MOGOA for process optimization during WEDM of Inconel 625
Authors: Sinha Arindam , Majumder Arindam , Gupta Krishanu
Published: January 2022

Inconel 625 is a super alloy that has excellent thermal and mechanical properties but is arduous to machine with conventional machining processes due to high melting point and hardness. Wire Electro Discharge machining, that have been an avowed unconventional process of machining that is mainly applied for the machining of tough and hard materials such as Inconel 625. An attempt, in this article, have been made to optimize the WEDM process parameters like servo voltage, peak current, spark-on time, spark-off time while machining on Inconel 625. The study considers Material Removal Rate (MRR) and Surface Roughness (SR) as performance parameters of machining process. L16 orthogonal array is implemented to design the experiments. Mathematical relations between the response parameters and the input variables are computed using of Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The mathematical models are then employed as a fitness function in the Multi-objective Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (MOGOA) for determining optimal process parameters. Later, a comparison of MOGOA has been done with Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA- II) and Multiple Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO) and found superior to both. Also, for responses like surface roughness (SR) and material removal rate (MRR), the predicted values in the present study are found to be in good proximity to the experimented values.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of colon capsule endoscopy accuracy for colorectal cancer screening. An alternative during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Authors: Sulbaran Marianny , Bustamante-Lopez Leonardo , Bernardo Wanderley , Sakai Christiano M. , Sakai Paulo , Nahas Sergio , Moura Eduardo G H de
Published: January 2022

Aim

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of colon capsule endoscopy for colorectal cancer screening.

Methods

Studies that compared the diagnostic performance of colonoscopy and second-generation colon capsule endoscopy (CCE-2) for screening of asymptomatic patients aged 50–75 years were included. The primary outcomes were sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios for polyps and adenomas measuring at least 6 mm or 10 mm.

Results

Eight full-text studies that evaluated 1602 patients were included for systematic review. Of these, 840 (52.43%) patients participated in an opportunistic screening program. The pooled outcomes of CCE-2 for polyps at least 6 mm / 10 mm were (CI = confidence interval): sensitivity: 88% (95% CI: 0.84–0.91) / 88% (95% CI: 0.82–0.93), specificity: 94% (95% CI: 0.92–0.95) / 95.5% (95% CI: 0.94–0.97); positive likelihood ratio: 11.86 (95% CI: 5.53–25.46) / 23.07 (95% CI: 6.163–86.36); negative likelihood ratio: 0.14 (95% CI: 0.1–0.21) / 0.14 (95% CI: 0.09–0.21). The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve for polyps at least 6 and 10 mm was 96.3% and 96.7%, respectively. The only cancer missed by complete CCE-2 was shown at multiple frames in the unblinded review. In total, 125 (7.8%) patients presented mild adverse events mostly related to bowel preparation.

Conclusion

CCE-2 is demonstrated to be an effective and safe alternative method for colorectal cancer screening. Diagnostic performance of CCE-2 for polyps of at least 6 and 10 mm was similar. Completion rates still need to be improved.
Disability in employment equality law: A reappraisal of the reasonable accommodation duty and issues arising in its implementation
Authors: Daly Patrick , Whelan Darius
Published: January 2022

This article re-considers the special features of the disability ground in EU equality law and raises questions as to whether the EU’s Framework Equality Directive (Directive 2000/78) may be in need of fundamental reform. It argues that the ‘Competence Defence’ in the Directive could have been more strongly drafted, to prescribe more precisely the circumstances in which an individual may be found not to be competent to perform the post’s essential functions. In the absence of a unified EU approach regarding the activation of the reasonable accommodation duty and an employer’s knowledge as to disability or the need for reasonable accommodation, national positions are compared. A model whereby the provision for individuals with disabilities is carried out in a proactive as opposed to a reactive manner could reduce the need for the reasonable accommodation system. The possibility of increased state involvement in the provision of reasonable accommodation to employees has strong potential. It is proposed that the principle of Universal Design, as expressed in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, could be used to ensure that work environments are developed from the outset to be conducive to the needs of those with physical or psychosocial disabilities. The implications of such a major change are assessed.
Parental time preferences and educational choices: The role of children’s gender and of social origin
Authors: Bellani Daniela , Ortiz-Gervasi Luis
Published: January 2022

This paper contributes to the literature on Relative Risk Aversion theory in two ways: first, by considering that the effect of time preferences may differ according to both children’s gender and social origin; second, by exploring this possibility for different educational outcomes: upper secondary school choices and university enrollment. We use data of the Survey of Household Income and Wealth, which contains questions specifically addressed to capture an individual’s time discounting preference, to further explore the association between time discounting preference and the effect of social origin on educational outcomes in Italy. In line with prior research, we find that time preferences only have a meaningful effect among children of lowly educated parents. But such an effect, in turn, differs by gender: parental time preferences matter more for sons than for daughters of lowly educated parents. This gender effect is found both for upper secondary choices and for entry into higher education.
Primary Pure Pancreatic -Type Acinar Cell Carcinoma of the Stomach: A Rare Entity with a Difficult Diagnosis and Review of the Literature
Authors: Paseiro-Crespo Gloria , García-Nebreda María , Roldán Cortés David , De la Peña Navarro Itziar , Álvaro Cifuentes Edurne , Marqués Medina Elia , Abad-Motos Ane
Published: January 2022

Acinar cell carcinoma is an uncommon tumour, representing only 1% to 2% of all exocrine pancreatic tumours. Pancreatic-type acinar cell carcinoma can occur in other organs, including the stomach, but it is extraordinarily rare. We report a case of a 51-year-old woman with a pancreatic-type pure acinar carcinoma of the stomach coexisting with a large cell B lymphoma synchronously, and a literature review of gastric carcinomas with pancreatic cell differentiation. At present there is a preoperative underdiagnosis of these tumours that could be minimized by including this entity in the differential diagnosis of gastric cancer and by performing immunohistochemical analysis with neuroendocrine markers and exocrine pancreatic enzymes.
Prothrombotic Milieu, Thrombotic Events and Prophylactic Anticoagulation in Hospitalized COVID-19 Positive Patients: A Review
Authors: Cryer Michael Joseph , Farhan Serdar , Kaufmann Christoph C. , Jäger Bernhard , Garg Aakash , Krishnan Prakash , Mehran Roxana , Huber Kurt
Published: January 2022

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although initial reports concentrated on severe respiratory illness, emerging literature has indicated a substantially elevated risk of thromboembolic events in patients with COVID-19 disease. Pro-inflammatory cytokine release has been linked to endothelial dysfunction and activation of coagulation pathways, as evident by elevated D-dimer levels and deranged coagulation parameters. Both macrovascular and microvascular thromboses have been described in observational cohort and post-mortem studies. Concurrently, preliminary data have suggested the role of therapeutic anticoagulation in preventing major thromboembolic complications in moderately but not critically ill patients. However, pending results from randomized controlled trials, clear guidance is lacking regarding the intensity and duration of anticoagulation in such patients. Herein, we review the existing evidence on incidence and pathophysiology of COVID-19 related thromboembolic complications and guide anticoagulation therapy based on current literature and societal consensus statements.
Multidisciplinary Bundle Approach in Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Patients with Non-Traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Phan Brian , Fagaragan Lolita , Alaraj Ali , Kim Keri S.
Published: January 2022

Background

A venous thromboembolism (VTE) bundle was launched in 2016 at the University of Illinois Hospital aiming to reduce the rate of VTE in the neurosurgical ICU. Main elements of the bundle included correct and early use of intermittent pneumatic compression and subcutaneous heparin.

Methods

Patients with SAH were retrospectively identified from 2014 until 2018. VTE events were diagnosed using twice weekly lower-extremity venous Duplex ultrasound and chest computerized tomography when appropriate.

Results

A total of 133 patients was included in each group. The incidence of VTE was not significantly different before and after the bundle (15% vs. 12%, p = 0.47). No difference was found regarding new episode of intracranial hemorrhage secondary to SQH (1.5% vs. 2.1%, p = 0.65). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that longer ICU LOS, higher Caprini score, and presence of baseline lung diseases were associated with VTE development.

Conclusions

With a median Caprini score of 9, our patient population was found to be at high risk for developing VTE. The implementation of the VTE bundle did not significantly reduce the rate of VTE in patients with non-traumatic SAH at UIH.
Docetaxel monotherapy induces necrotic acute pancreatitis
Authors: Ben Abdallah Ichrak , Berrazega Yosra , Rachdi Haifa , Mejri Nesrine , Neji Henda , Daoud Nouha , Boussen Hamouda
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Drug-induced acute pancreatitis (AP) is uncommon and represents 0.1 to 2% of all AP cases. Chemotherapy-induced AP is very rare. Docetaxel monotherapy-induced AP has been reported only once in the literature. Herein we report the second case of docetaxel-related AP and the first case of necrotic AP induced by this agent.

Case report

We describe the case of a severe docetaxel-induced AP classified as stage E Balthazar in a 55-year-old female treated with adjuvant docetaxel for localized breast cancer. Symptoms occurred five hours following the first infusion of docetaxel.

Management and outcome

The patient was hospitalized for 15 days for appropriate management. According to the CTCAE (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events) version 5.0 this was a grade 4 toxicity and chemotherapy was withdrawn thereafter. Drug rechallenge was not possible because of the severity of the presentation.

Discussion

Medical oncologists should be aware that docetaxel may induce severe pancreatitis. Therefore, they should prompt testing of serum lipase when patients consult for unusual abdominal pain following chemotherapy infusion. Recognizing this entity is paramount to allow early and appropriate management.
NLRP3 and NLRP6 expression in pterygium and normal conjunctiva and their relationship with pterygium formation and recurrence
Authors: Guo Zhenfeng , Wang Yuchuan , Wang Lina , Li Qingyu , Yuan Xiaoyong , Hua Xia
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the pterygium formation and recurrence, by detecting the expression of Nod-like receptor pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) and Nod-like receptor pyrin domain 6 (NLRP6) in pterygium and evaluate the correlation between NLRP3 and NLRP6 in pterygium.

Methods

In this prospective study, the expression levels of NLRP3 and NLRP6, with their related effectors, were evaluated in primary pterygium (n = 40) and recurrent pterygium (n = 32) tissue samples and compared with normal conjunctiva (n = 11) tissue samples by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Compared to the normal conjunctiva group, the expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-18, and IL-1β, were significantly higher, and NLRP6 showed an expression that was significantly lower in pterygium tissue samples (P < 0.05, respectively). Compared to the primary pterygium group, the expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-18 and IL-1β were significantly higher, and NLRP6 showed an expression that was significantly lower in recurrent pterygium tissue samples (P < 0.05, respectively).There was a negative correlation between NLRP3 expression and NLRP6 expression in normal conjunctival (r = −0.739, P = 0.009) and pterygium (r = −0.533, P = 0.000).

Conclusions

NLRP3 and NLRP6 may be involved in the formation and recurrence of pterygium. NLRP6 may play an anti-inflammatory role in normal conjunctival tissue to maintain conjunctival homeostasis.
The effect of a postoperative local anaesthetic pain pump in anterior total hip arthroplasty: a randomised control trial
Authors: Keeka Maya , Tran Phong , Tirosh Oren
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

This project aims to determine if an addition of a local anaesthetic pain pump for 48 hours postoperatively effects verbal pain scores (VRS), opioid usage and length of stay (LOS) after anterior approach total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods:

This was a single-centre, single-surgeon, randomised, parallel-group study with balanced randomisation involving 108 patients. Randomisation and blinding were computer generated into 2 groups: local infiltration anaesthetic (LIA) only (Control Group) and LIA+ continuous postoperative infusion of local anaesthetic for 48 hours via a pain pump (Intervention Group). Postoperatively VRS (first 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours and every 4 hours postoperatively up to 48 hours), opioid consumption, length of hospital admission, antiemetic and laxative usage were recorded. Statistical analysis utilised independent sample t-tests and repeated ANOVA.

Results:

Demographics and duration of surgery were similar across both cohorts. On average, compared to the control group, the intervention group required 2 mg less of opioid consumption over 48 hours ( p = 0.41). VRS between the 2 groups showed no statistically significant difference. Scores ranged from 0 to 7, with an average of 1.28 in the intervention group and 1.29 in the control group ( p = 0.31). 9 patients in the intervention group and 10 in the control group required antiemetics. There was no difference in the LOS or postoperative constipation. No complications or adverse events occurred.

Conclusions:

Our study has shown the addition of a continuous postoperative infusion of local anaesthetic for 48 hours post an anterior THA had no effect on VRS, opioid consumption, LOS and antiemetic usage.
Threshold speed of short journal bearings considering the non-Gaussian longitudinal surface roughness
Authors: Tian Zhuxin , Li Bo
Published: January 2022

During the actual machining process of journal surface, such as milling and fine turning, the surface roughness has strong non-Gaussianity. Thus, the effect of non-Gaussian longitudinal roughness on threshold speed of short journal bearings is investigated in this study. Introducing the parameters of kurtosis and skewness, the model of non-Gaussian surface roughness is established by modifying the Gaussian distribution. It is found that the non-Gaussianity of surface roughness cannot be neglected especially for the journal rotating with a larger eccentricity ratio, the error of Gaussian distribution surface reaches 19.33% when the eccentricity ratio equal 0.7. The increasing of kurtosis would reduce the threshold speed, while the increasing of skewness would enhance the threshold speed. For a larger eccentricity ratio, the effect of kurtosis and skewness on threshold speed is more distinctly.
Elevated trauma exposure and mental health burden among men who have sex with men in Vietnam
Authors: Trang Kathy , Jovanovic Tanja , Hinton Devon E. , Sullivan Patrick , Worthman Carol M. , Lam Le Xuan , Chi Nguyen Kim , Thanh Nguyen Cong , Ha Tran Viet , Go Vivian , Hoffman Irving , Giang Le Minh
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to characterize trauma exposure and mental health burden among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Hanoi, Vietnam. Participants comprise 100 HIV-positive and 98 high-risk, HIV-negative MSM, ranging from 18 to 29 years of age. Data were collected using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Traumatic Events Inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and PTSD Symptom Scale. A subset of participants (n  =  12) were also interviewed to evaluate community perception of the prevalence, causation, and available treatment options for mental health issues within the MSM community in Vietnam. In our sample, 23.2% reported having experienced moderate-to-severe childhood physical abuse; 18.7% physical neglect; 13.6% emotional abuse; 11.1% emotional neglect; and 26.8% sexual abuse. Such trauma exposure continued into adulthood and manifested most commonly in the form of interpersonal violence. Approximately 37.4% of the sample met the criteria for probable PTSD; 26.8% for moderate-to-severe depression; and 20.2% for moderate-to-severe anxiety. Neither exposure nor mental health burden differed by serostatus. Linear regression revealed that childhood emotional abuse was the only sub-type of trauma significantly associated with depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. The majority of interviewees believed that mental health burden was higher among MSM relative to the general population and attributed this to their vulnerability to interpersonal violence and lack of available coping resources. However, few believed that these mental health issues warranted clinical attention, and only one participant was able to identify a mental health service provider. Our findings suggest that trauma exposure and mental health burden are prevalent among MSM, irrespective of serostatus, and much higher than what has been previously reported among the general population in Vietnam.
‘Enter parliament but never become part of it’: How have the Greens in the United Kingdom approached opposition?
Authors: Thompson Louise , Pearson Mitya
Published: January 2022

The Greens in the United Kingdom have benefitted from the fragmentation of the party system and the creation of devolved institutions, achieving consistent representation at multiple levels of British politics in recent years. However, we know little about what they have done in these positions. This study uses interviews with Green legislators to investigate how they have interpreted the task of opposition at Westminster, Holyrood and Stormont. We show that Green legislators’ approaches to opposition have been influenced by their party identity, and that differences in approach between the institutions have largely been determined by contrasting political opportunity structures, rather than parliamentary rules. These findings highlight the importance of party as a factor shaping opposition strategy and the varied roles which opposition parties can play within the UK political system.
The role of an equity policy in the reproduction of social inequalities: High School Ranking and university admissions in Chile
Authors: Catalán Ximena , Santelices Maria Veronica , Horn Catherine
Published: January 2022

The High School (HS) Ranking is an equity policy aimed at increasing the enrolment of students from underprivileged contexts in selective higher education institutions in Chile. However, HS Ranking is considered as an admission criterion for all applicants, regardless of their contextual characteristics. In this study, we delve into how students from different high school settings interpret and deploy actions to increase their HS Ranking score. Through a Structural Equation Model with validated survey data (9 schools, N = 1.831), our results show that the role of the schools’ context in the deployment of academic strategies to increase HS Ranking score is significant, even after controlling for academic individual motivation. In a scenario of a highly segregated secondary system these results are relevant for the discussion of the role of HS Ranking – an equity-oriented admission policy – in maintaining the higher education inequalities.
Thermal buckling and vibro-acoustic behaviour of functionally graded graphene polymer layered composites subjected to in-plane temperature variance
Authors: John Bimal Oommen , Hassan Fuad Umar , George Nivish , Chacko Tony , Bhagat Vinod , Jeyaraj P , Kiran Kumar Reddy R
Published: January 2022

The current study reports the thermal buckling, vibration and acoustic characteristics of functionally graded graphene polymer layer composite plates subjected to the in-plane temperature variance. The macroscopic properties of the composites are evaluated using the modified rule of mixtures to compute the layer-wise properties of an functionally graded graphene polymer layer composite plate. The critical buckling temperature is computed and compared for various functional gradings, boundary conditions and in-plane temperature variances. The in-plane temperature variance showed a major impact on the critical thermal buckling temperature and respective mode shapes. The vibro-acoustic behaviour of the functionally graded graphene polymer layer composite plate is investigated and documented keeping critical buckling temperature as a function. With an increase in thermal load and the nature of in-plane temperature variance, the vibro-acoustic results showed significant difference in velocity and acoustic response. For functionally graded graphene polymer layer composite plate with one free edge, the difference was statistically significant as indicated by an octave band plot. We conclude that the portion of the functionally graded graphene polymer layer composite plate that is subjected to the higher temperature in an in-plane temperature variance, as well as the nature of the boundary conditions may exacerbate the effect of in-plane temperature variance and are crucial in predicting vibro-acoustic characteristics.
The discursive representation of male sex workers in Thai newspapers
Authors: Kijratanakoson Nattawaj
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study is to examine how male sex workers are represented in Thai newspapers. The analysis is contingent upon Reisigl and Wodak’s concept of discursive strategy in conjunction with Machin and Mayr’s compilation of transitivity analysis. Methodologically, this study employs corpus-assisted discourse analysis. The 45,769-word corpus consists of news articles retrieved from the websites of 11 Thai newspapers. They were published in English between the period of 2000 and 2019. Findings reveal that the media pursue the nomination, predication, argumentation, perspectivization together with intensification and mitigation strategies to portray male sex workers in a non-threatening fashion. Possible contributing factors behind such portrayal are discussed.