bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interior Space Design and Automatic Layout Method Based on CNN
Authors: Wu WeiPing , Feng Yanshun
Published: April 2022

With the rapid rise in the number of people buying houses, the demand for interior space design has also increased accordingly. The diversification of existing room types and the diversity of the public’s perception of fashion make interior designers in short supply. The future of computer science and technology in the field of automatic design of indoor areas will be immeasurable. This paper proposes an automatic layout method for spatial area design based on convolutional neural networks (CNN). CNN methods are a fast and efficient method. By mimicking the designer’s design process, it proposes a two-stage algorithm that defines the room first and the wall later, and the algorithm also provides a large-scale dataset called RPLAN that contains more than 80,000 interior layout plans from real residential buildings. Starting from the prediction living room, the automatic layout of the indoor areas is completed by iteration. A large number of empirical results show that the interior area design effect of this method is comparable to the interior design floor plan of professional designers.
Visceral Adipose Tissue Influence on Health Problem Development and Its Relationship with Serum Biochemical Parameters in Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Literature Review
Authors: Moreira Vanessa C. , Silva Calliandra M. S. , Welker Alexis F. , da Silva Izabel C. R.
Published: April 2022

Background. The amount of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) tends to increase with age and is associated with several health problems, such as cardiometabolic diseases, increased infections, and overall mortality. Objectives. This review provides a general assessment of how visceral adiposity correlates with the development of health problems and changes in serum biochemical parameters in middle-aged and older adults. Methods. We searched specific terms in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases for VAT articles published in the English language between 2009 and 2019 related to older adults. Results. The search found twenty-three publications in this period, of which nine were excluded. The publications had a population aged between 42 and 83 years and correlated the VAT area ratio with several comorbidities (such as pancreatitis, depression, cancer, and coronary heart disease) and serum biochemical parameters. Conclusion. Further research on the association between visceral obesity and the emergence of health problems and the relationship between VAT and changes in serum biochemical parameters in older individuals should deepen the understanding of this connection and develop preventive actions.
The Solutions of Legendre’s and Chebyshev’s Differential Equations by Using the Differential Transform Method
Authors: Alotaibi A. M. , El-Moneam M. A. , Badr Badr S.
Published: April 2022

Chebyshev’s and Legendre’s differential equations’ solutions are solved employing the differential transform method (DTM) and the power series method (PSM) in this study. This research shows that this method is efficient and effective in discovering Chebyshev’s and Legendre’s differential equation (DE) series solutions and that it can reduce calculation size when compared to other methods.
Advancement of Nanofibrous Mats and Common Useful Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Abu Owida Hamza , Al-Nabulsi Jamal I. , Alnaimat Feras , Al Sharah Ashraf , Al-Ayyad Muhammad , Turab Nidal M. , Abdullah Mustafa
Published: April 2022

Electrospinning enables simple and cost-effective production of polymer nanofibers from different polymer materials. Drug delivery systems are capable of achieving maximum drug treatment benefits by significantly reducing adverse complications. Electrospun nanofibers have recently attracted considerable attention owing to their distinctive properties, including flexibility and biocompatibility. The implementation of functional constituents within nanostructure fibers blends is an effective technique for the administration of a variety of drugs in animal research, broadening the nanofiber capability and reliability. The nanofibrous mesh and its various application purposes are discussed in terms of a summary of recent research, emphasizing the ease of streaming and a large number of combinations of this approach, which could lead to a breakthrough in targeted therapy.
Cancer Incidence in Migrants in Australia: Patterns of Three Infection-Related Cancers
Authors: Yu Xue Qin , Feletto Eleonora , Smith Megan A. , Yuill Susan , Baade Peter D.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Australia provides an ideal population-base for cancer migration studies because of its multicultural society and high-quality cancer registrations. Among migrant groups there is considerable variability in the incidence of infection-related cancers; thus, the patterns of three such cancers were examined among migrant groups relative to Australian-born residents.

Methods:

Using national incidence data for cancers of the stomach, liver, and cervix diagnosed during 2005 to 2014, incidence rates were compared for selected migrant groups with the Australian-born population using incidence rate ratios (IRR), from a negative binomial regression model.

Results:

Wide variations in incidence between countries/regions of birth were observed for all three cancers (P < 0.0001). The patterns were similar for cancers of the stomach and liver, in that migrants from countries/regions with higher incidence rates maintained an increased risk in Australia, with the highest being among South American migrants (IRR = 2.35) for stomach cancer and among Vietnamese migrants (5.44) for liver cancer. In contrast, incidence rates of cervical cancer were lower for many migrant groups, with women from Southern Asia (0.39) and North Africa (0.42) having the lowest rates. The rate of cervical cancer was higher in migrants from New Zealand, Philippines, and Polynesia.

Conclusions:

Several Australian migrant groups were found to experience a disproportionate burden of infection-related cancers; further studies of associated risk factors may inform the design of effective interventions to mediate these disparities.

Impact:

By identifying these migrant groups, it is hoped that these results will motivate and inform prevention or early detection activities for these migrant groups.

See related commentary Dee and Gomez, p. 1251
Methylation Subtypes of Primary Prostate Cancer Predict Poor Prognosis
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Jordahl Kristina M. , Zhu Chenghao , Livingstone Julie , Rhie Suhn K. , Wright Jonathan L. , Grady William M. , Boutros Paul C. , Stanford Janet L. , Dai James Y.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Patients with prostate cancer experience heterogeneous outcomes after radical prostatectomy. Genomic studies including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) have reported molecular signatures of prostate cancer, but few studies have assessed the prognostic effects of DNA methylation profiles.

Methods:

We conducted the largest methylome subtyping analysis for primary prostate tumors to date, using methylome data from three patient populations: TCGA, a prostate cancer cohort study conducted at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (FH; Seattle, WA), and the Canadian International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) cohort. Four subtypes were detected in the TCGA dataset, then independently assigned to FH and ICGC cohort data. The identified methylation subtypes were assessed for association with cancer prognosis in the above three patient populations.

Results:

Using a set of hypermethylated CpG sites, four methylation subtypes were identified in TCGA. Compared with subtype 1, subtype 4 had an HR of 2.09 (P = 0.029) for biochemical recurrence (BCR) in TCGA patients. HRs of 2.76 (P = 0.002) for recurrence and 9.73 (P = 0.002) for metastatic-lethal (metastasis or prostate cancer–specific death) outcomes were observed in the FH cohort. A similar pattern of association was noted in the Canadian ICGC cohort, though HRs were not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

A hypermethylated subtype was associated with an increased hazard of recurrence and mortality in three studies with prostate tumor methylome data. Further molecular work is needed to understand the effect of methylation subtypes on cancer prognosis.

Impact:

This study identified a DNA methylation subtype that was associated with worse prostate cancer prognosis after radical prostatectomy.
A Whole-Genome CRISPR Screen Identifies AHR Loss as a Mechanism of Resistance to a PARP7 Inhibitor
Authors: Chen Huadong , Diolaiti Morgan E. , O'Leary Patrick C. , Rojc Ajda , Krogan Nevan J. , Kim Minkyu , Ashworth Alan
Published: April 2022

Inhibitors directed toward PARP1 and PARP2 are approved agents for the treatment of BRCA1 and BRCA2-related cancers. Other members of the PARP family have also been implicated in cancer and are being assessed as therapeutic targets in cancer and other diseases. Recently, an inhibitor of PARP7 (RBN-2397) has reached early-stage human clinical trials. Here, we performed a genome-wide CRISPR screen for genes that modify the response of cells to RBN-2397. We identify the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon receptor AHR and multiple components of the cohesin complex as determinants of resistance to this agent. Activators and inhibitors of AHR modulate the cellular response to PARP7 inhibition, suggesting potential combination therapy approaches.
A Case of Pure Autonomic Failure Initially Presenting with Hemihypohidrosis: Twelve-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Saito Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Although it is generally recognized that pure autonomic failure (PAF) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease selectively involving the autonomic nervous system, its mode of progression remains to be settled. A 57-year-old man presented with sweat reduction on the left side during previous 3 years. The thermoregulatory sweat test revealed left-sided multi-segmental hypohidrosis more markedly on the face. Pharmacological sweating was relatively preserved except for the face. During the subsequent 8 years, he developed erectile dysfunction and overt orthostatic hypotension. Plasma norepinephrine was markedly reduced without reactive increase during the tilt-table test. The heart to mediastinum ratio in 123I-meta-iodobenzylguanidine cardiac scintigraphy was reduced. Over the following 3 years, he showed progressive and generalized postganglionic sudomotor impairment without cognitive impairment or somatic nervous dysfunctions. Present observations suggest that in some patients with PAF, pathological process might start mainly at the central level and later extends to the peripheral level.
Inhibitory Effects of Cannabinoids on Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase Enzyme Activities
Authors: Puopolo Tess , Liu Chang , Ma Hang , Seeram Navindra P.
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) are two cholinergic enzymes catalyzing the reaction of cleaving acetylcholine into acetate and choline at the neuromuscular junction. Abnormal hyperactivity of AChE and BChE can lead to cholinergic deficiency, which is associated with several neurological disorders including cognitive decline and memory impairments. Preclinical studies support that some cannabinoids including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may exert pharmacological effects on the cholinergic system, but it remains unclear whether cannabinoids can inhibit AChE and BChE activities. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of a panel of cannabinoids including CBD, Δ8-THC, cannabigerol (CBG), cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), cannabicitran (CBT), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabinol (CBN) on AChE and BChE activities. Methods: The inhibitory effects of cannabinoids on the activities of AChE and BChE enzymes were evaluated with the Ellman method using acetyl- and butyryl-thiocholines as substrates. The inhibition mechanism of cannabinoids on AChE and BChE was studied with enzyme kinetic assays including the Lineweaver-Burk and Michaelis-Menten analyses. In addition, computational-based molecular docking experiments were performed to explore the interactions between the cannabinoids and the enzyme proteins. Results: Cannabinoids including CBD, Δ8-THC, CBG, CBGA, CBT, CBDV, CBC, and CBN (at 200 µM) inhibited the activities of AChE and BChE by 70.8, 83.7, 92.9, 76.7, 66.0, 79.3, 13.7, and 30.5%, and by 86.8, 80.8, 93.2, 87.1, 77.0, 78.5, 27.9, and 22.0%, respectively. The inhibitory effects of these cannabinoids (with IC50 values ranging from 85.2 to >200 µM for AChE and 107.1 to >200 µM for BChE) were less potent as compared to the positive control galantamine (IC50 1.21 and 6.86 µM for AChE and BChE, respectively). In addition, CBD, as a representative cannabinoid, displayed a competitive type of inhibition on both AChE and BChE. Data from the molecular docking studies suggested that cannabinoids interacted with several amino acid residues on the enzyme proteins, which supported their overall inhibitory effects on AChE and BChE. Conclusion: Cannabinoids showed moderate inhibitory effects on the activities of AChE and BChE enzymes, which may contribute to their modulatory effects on the cholinergic system. Further studies using cell-based and in vivo models are warranted to evaluate whether cannabinoids’ neuroprotective effects are associated with their anti-cholinesterase activities.
Small RNA Sequencing Reveals Exosomal miRNAs as Unique Feature Markers in Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Fang Nianxin , Lai Zhengdao , Xu Ruhong , Huang Panwen , Ye Guansheng , Lu Weibo , Mo Weiliang , Zhang Ping
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common cardiovascular disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in VTE; however, the role of exosomal miRNAs in VTE remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to identify key exosomal miRNAs and their potential mechanisms in VTE. Methods: We collected 31 samples from unprovoked VTE patients and 25 samples from healthy individuals. Exosomal miRNA sequencing was performed on 11 unprovoked VTE samples and 9 normal samples, and the remaining samples were used to verify the expression level of candidate 9 miRNAs in VTE and normal samples. The sequencing data were used to analyze exosomal miRNA expression. Meanwhile, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses were performed to determine the potential biological functions of differentially expressed miRNA target genes. Results: A total of 32 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified by sequencing. Among the 32 miRNAs, 23 miRNAs were upregulated (72%), and 9 miRNAs were downregulated (28%). In addition, we found that the biological functions and metabolic pathways of the target genes were related to hemostatic factors involved in VTE, indicating the regulation of differentially expressed miRNAs. We identified key miRNAs by constructing a miRNA-messenger RNA regulatory network and found that the target genes were related to VTE. We finally determined that the abnormal expression of 9 miRNAs is closely related to VTE, and the expression level between VTE and normal was verified through other samples. Conclusion: Our study identified a set of key miRNAs for future research on the molecular mechanisms of VTE.
Voces de la primera infancia durante el confinamiento español por la covid-19
Authors: Castro Zubizarreta Ana , Valcárcel-Delgado Víctor
Published: April 2022

(analítico)Se analiza cómo la situación creada por la covid-19, el confinamiento y la suspensión de la docencia presencial, afectó al alumnado de educación infantil. Se presenta un estudio de caso de un aula de 16 niños y niñas de tres años. A través de asambleas virtuales que combinaron conversaciones con la elaboración de dibujos se recoge su voz, mostrando en el análisis sus preferencias en la vida cotidiana durante el confinamiento y su estado emocional, los aprendizajes que dicen haber adquirido, así como los deseos de futuro ante la vuelta a su rutina diaria. Los resultados, no solo muestran la capacidad de adaptación infantil, sino también cómo llegan a identificar aspectos positivos derivados del confinamiento que inferimos como demandas de la infancia ante la vuelta a su vida diaria.
Palabras clave: Pandemia; infancia; educación infantil; docencia no presencial.
Size at Which Aneurysms Rupture: A Hospital‐Based Retrospective Cohort From 3 Decades
Authors: Tarkiainen Jeremias , Kelahaara Milla , Pyysalo Liisa , Ronkainen Antti , Frösen Juhana
Published: April 2022

Background

The size of the saccular intracranial aneurysm (IA) has been used as the primary indicator for rupture risk. We investigated at which size IAs that rupture did so, and whether this size has significantly changed over time.

Methods

Patients treated for ruptured IAs were identified from the Aneurysm Database of the Tampere University Hospital. The size of the IA at the time of rupture was measured from computed tomographic angiography or digital subtraction angiography made to diagnose the aneurysm. Data for the clinical risk factors for rupture were collected from the patient's medical records.

Results

Of the 2545 patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms (IAs) admitted, the size of the ruptured IA could be determined for 76% (1925 of 2545). Fifty‐one percent (984 of 1925) of the studied IAs ruptured at a size <7 mm. Both the mean and the median size of the IA at rupture had a downward trend from 1989 to 1997 (median decrease from 10 mm to 6 mm) but have remained relatively constant since. Forty‐six percent (881 of 1925) of the patients with a ruptured IA were not known to have any lifestyle‐related aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage risk factor. Of the IAs that ruptured small, 35% were located in the anterior communicating artery and 14% in other small intracranial arteries.

Conclusion

Small size should not be used to exclude unruptured IAs from prophylactic treatment. The observation that the size at which IAs rupture has previously decreased, suggesting a change in relative importance of risk factors or characteristics of a contemporary patient population compared with older cohorts.
Description of a new species of the newt genus Tylototriton sensu lato (Amphibia: Urodela: Salamandridae) from southwestern China
Authors: LI SHI-ZE , LIU JING , SHI SHENG-CHAO , WEI GANG , WANG BIN
Published: April 2022

A new species of the genus Tylototriton sensu lato from Tongzi County, Guizhou Province, China was described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial 16S and ND2 gene sequences indicated the new species as the most closely related species of T. dabienicus in Henan. The new species could be identified from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) body size medium (TOL 120.5–135.1 mm and SVL 61.1–65.9 mm in males, and TOL 123.5–127.6 mm and SVL 66.7–69.2 mm in females); (2) gular fold present; (3) the tail length shorter than the snout-vent length; (4) the distal ends and ventral surfaces of digits, peripheral area of cloaca, and the lower margin of tail orange; (5) the distal tips of the limbs greatly overlapping when the fore and hind limbs being pressed along the trunk; (6) fingertips reaching to the level beyond the snout when the forelimbs being stretched forward; (7) nodule-like warts on body sides continuous and no obvious. The new species is known only from the montane forests of Huanglian Nature Reserve, Tongzi County, Guizhou Province, China. We recommend the new species to be listed as Critically Endangered.
The Notched-frons Katydids of Kashmir (Jammu and Kashmir) India: new records and a new species of Euconocephalus (Tettigoniidae: Conocephalinae: Copiphorini)
Authors: SHAH MUZAMIL SYED , USMANI MOHD KAMIL
Published: April 2022

Karny (1912) proposed Copiphorini tribe within the subfamily Conocephalinae, family Tettigoniidae. Copiphorini is now one of the seven tribes of Conocephalinae. The members of this tribe are characterized by notched frons and a slanting head shape. This is the first study of the tribe in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The specimens which were examined for this study were collected in Kashmir from August 2019 to September 2021. During the survey, two genera and four species including a new species, Euconocephalus farooqi sp. nov. were reported. Brief discussion about morphology and distribution of new and first records are given. The holotype of new the species has been deposited in the museum of Zoology Department, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh India.
Organ-Space Surgical Site Infections: Consequences and Prediction Using ACS-NSQIP
Authors: Medline Alexandra , Muralidharan Vignesh Jayaraman , Codner Jesse , Sharma Joe
Published: April 2022

Background

The incidence of organ-space surgical site infections (OSIs) across the US has not decreased to the same extent as superficial and deep surgical site infections (SSIs). This study aimed to highlight the consequences and create a predictive model of OSIs using 2019 NSQIP data.

Materials and Methods

The primary data source was the ACS NSQIP 2019 Participant Use Targeted File (PUF). Chi-squared and independent t-tests evaluated the association of OSIs and other postoperative complications. Variables of interest for our predictive model included 10 surgery types, 10 relevant preoperative laboratory values, and 26 other variables including demographics and comorbidities. A stepwise logistic regression model fit with OSIs as the outcome was used to calculate the predicted ROC and c-index.

Results

A total of 1,076,441 cases submitted from 719 NSQIP-participating sites were included in our analysis, comprised of 16,751 (1.6%) OSIs with a median of 10 days (IQR: 11 days) between surgery and the development of an OSI. Forty-two variables were included in our final multivariable analysis. Esophageal and pancreatic surgeries yielded an approximate 4- and 6-fold higher increase in the odds of OSI, respectively ( P < .001). ROC analysis yielded a c-index statistic of 0.846 ( Figure 1 ). Associated consequences of OSIs included hospital readmission (OR = 20.74, 95% CI: 20.094-21.412, p < .001), sepsis (OR = 35.084; 95%CI: 33.75-36.47, p < .001) and higher probabilities of mortality (34% vs. 0.8%, p < .001) and morbidity (16% vs. 5.8%, p < .001).

Discussion

OSIs have extensive consequences and may be predictable. These types of infections are multifactorial and require quality surveillance distinct from other SSIs.
Experiences and wellbeing of Samaritans crisis line volunteers in Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Cooney Aoife , McCashin Darragh
Published: April 2022

Background:

The literature demonstrates that working in a crisis line volunteer role, despite being rewarding, poses a risk of adverse effects on health and additional pressure exists with the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, there is limited research on the experiences of such volunteers.

Aims:

This study aimed to explore the experiences of Samaritans volunteers in Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic, thereby contributing to the overall knowledge of crisis line volunteering, and gaining an understanding of how this role is impacted by the pandemic.

Method:

A qualitative approach was taken, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with volunteers from Samaritans branches in Ireland (n = 13). Data were then analysed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Four overarching themes were identified: (1) responding to calls in the context of COVID-19, with sub-themes being change in the nature of calls, reliance on existing approach in handling calls and varying emotional responses to calls, (2) sense of loss, with sub-themes being loss of older and vulnerable volunteers, reduced social connectedness and restricted aspects of the service, (3) positive experiences, with sub-themes being supportive culture, new personal skills and perspectives and volunteering as an escape from lockdown and (4) adaptation challenges, with sub-themes being logistical changes and concern for sustainability of the service.

Conclusions:

Findings highlight important insights into the experiences of Samaritans volunteers in Ireland, revealing that the pandemic brought about challenges, but also gave rise to some positive experiences. Implications of these findings are discussed in the context of the existing literature and recommendations made.
Knowing is Half the Battle: How Education Decreases the Fear of Terrorism
Authors: Krause Peter , Gustafson Daniel , Theriault Jordan , Young Liane
Published: April 2022

Although only 23 people on average have been killed per year by terrorist attacks in the United States since 2001, American citizens and politicians consistently rank terrorism as a top security threat, leading to costly wars abroad and the repression of civil liberties at home. To what extent can education about terrorism alter perceptions of the threat? Much existing scholarship—and consistent polling over the past two decades—suggests that it cannot, but we disagree. Evidence gathered from an extensive series of experimental and observational surveys involving students in 31 terrorism and non-terrorism related courses at 12 universities—including massive open online courses (MOOC) and online surveys—reveals that the more individuals learn about terrorism, the smaller they perceive the threat to be to themselves and to the U.S. In the fight against terrorism and the fear it inspires, knowing really is half the battle.
Supporting and Advocating for Immigrant and Refugee Students and Families in America’s Urban Schools: Educators’ Agency and Practices in Everyday Instruction
Authors: Li Guofang , Qin Kongji
Published: April 2022

Persistent educational inequity for immigrant and refugee students and their families calls for instructional practices centering on access, quality, and social justice. Drawing on two qualitative case studies, this article examines how three U.S. urban school teachers attended to the systemic inequalities and unique challenges confronting immigrant and refugee students both inside their classrooms and outside the school. Our analyses show that the teachers strategically enacted various critical instructional practices, including linguistically responsive pedagogy, translanguaging, and sociopolitically responsive pedagogy. The teachers’ agentic practices have important implications for teacher education and professional development for immigrant and refugee learners in urban settings.
The Effect of EDS-FLU on Objective and Patient-Reported Subjective Outcomes for Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps
Authors: Ow Randall A , McGinnis John P , Sacks Harry J , Mehle Mark E
Published: April 2022

Background

Exhalation delivery system with fluticasone (EDS-FLU) delivers medication high and deep in the nasal passages and has been shown to reduce nasal polyp (NP) grade, an objective measure of efficacy, and to yield clinically meaningful improvements on subjective measures of symptoms in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

Objectives

To better characterize EDS-FLU treatment, we analyzed responder rates for four outcome measures used in the EDS-FLU pivotal trials, in the overall study population as well as in subgroups of patients with or without prior sinus surgery or prior use of a standard intranasal corticosteroid spray (INS).

Methods

Data were pooled from two randomized, 24-week (16-week, double-blind + 8-week, open-label), placebo-controlled studies (NAVIGATE I and II). Results for patients receiving EDS-FLU (186 µg [n = 161] or 372 µg [n = 160]) or EDS-placebo (n = 161) twice daily during the double-blind phase are described. Responder criteria included NP grade reduction (≥1-point), 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) reduction (>12-points), Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) (much/very much improved), and congestion score improvement (>0.5-points).

Results

More patients in the EDS-FLU group responded to each of the four responder criteria compared with EDS-placebo. More patients receiving EDS-FLU responded to ≥ 1 criterion compared with EDS-placebo at week 4 (82.7% and 60.4%, respectively) and week 16 (95.7% and 80.3%, respectively). Patients responded similarly irrespective of prior sinus surgery or prior INS use. Patient-reported outcome measures showed earlier responses than NP scores.

Conclusions

Meaningful improvements were seen across multiple response criteria with EDS-FLU, suggesting that the broad treatment effect of EDS-FLU includes objective reduction in polyp grade and improvements in several patient-reported outcomes.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NAVIGATE I: NCT01622569 and NAVIGATE II: NCT01624662)
Combining Cognitive Diagnostic Computerized Adaptive Testing With Multidimensional Item Response Theory
Authors: Luo Hao , Wang Daxun , Guo Zhiming , Cai Yan , Tu Dongbo
Published: April 2022

The new generation of tests not only focuses on the general ability but also the process of finer-grained skills. Under the guidance of this thought, researchers have developed a dual-purpose CD-CAT (Dual-CAT). In the existing Dual-CAT, the models used in overall ability estimation are unidimensional IRT models, which cannot apply to the multidimensional tests. This article intends to develop a multidimensional Dual-CAT to improve its applicability. To achieve this goal, this article firstly proposes some item selection methods for the multidimensional Dual-CAT, and then verifies the estimation accuracy and exposure rate of these methods through both simulation study and a real item bank study. The results show that the established multidimensional Dual-CAT is effective and the new proposed methods outperform the traditional methods. Finally, this article discusses the future direction of the Dual-CAT.
Base of Tongue Surgery and Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Williamson Adrian , McArdle Erica H. , Morrow Vincent R. , Zalzal Habib G. , Carr Michele M. , Coutras Steven W.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Drug‐induced sleep endoscopy–directed lingual tonsillectomy and midline posterior glossectomy have been employed for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in children. The purpose of this study is to evaluate outcomes in children undergoing lingual tonsillectomy, midline posterior glossectomy, or combined base of tongue reduction procedures for obstructive sleep apnea.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care academic medical center.

Methods

A case series was performed with chart review of pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea who underwent base of tongue surgery as directed by drug‐induced sleep endoscopy. Pre‐ and postoperative obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index (oAHI) was compared. Age, sex, body mass index z score, and medical history were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 168 children were included, with a mean ± SD age of 8.3 ± 3.6 years. Of these patients, 101 underwent lingual tonsillectomy alone; 25, midline posterior glossectomy alone; and 42, both. Their mean oAHI improvement was 3.52 ± 8.39, 2.55 ± 5.59, and 3.70 ± 6.07, respectively. Each surgical group experienced significant improvement in sleep apnea when pre‐ and postoperative oAHI was compared (P < .01). Overall surgical success, as defined by oAHI <1 (or <5 without clinical symptoms), was 75% (126 patients).

Conclusion

When guided by drug‐induced sleep endoscopy, pediatric tongue base surgery can significantly improve oAHI and thus demonstrates promising success in treating pediatric obstructive sleep apnea.
Cholesteatoma in Congenital Aural Atresia and External Auditory Canal Stenosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chan Ching Yee , Karmali Sarah Amirali , Arulanandam Brandon , Nguyen Lily H.P. , Duval Melanie
Published: April 2022

Objective

Patients with congenital external auditory canal (EAC) abnormalities are at risk of developing cholesteatoma and often undergo surveillance imaging to detect it. The aims of this systematic review are to determine the incidence of cholesteatoma in patients with congenital aural atresia (CAA) and patients with congenital EAC stenosis and to investigate the most common age of cholesteatoma diagnosis. This information will help clinicians decide which patients require surveillance scanning, as well as the timing of imaging.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and Web of Science databases.

Review Methods

A systematic literature review following the PRISMA guidelines was performed. The data sources were searched by 2 independent reviewers, and articles were included that reported on CAA or congenital EAC stenosis with a confirmed diagnosis of cholesteatoma. The selected articles were screened separately by 3 reviewers before reaching a consensus on the final articles to include. Data collection on the number of patients with cholesteatoma and the age of diagnosis was performed for these articles.

Results

Eight articles met the inclusion criteria. The incidence of cholesteatoma was 1.7% (4/238) in CAA and 43.0% (203/473) in congenital EAC stenosis. The majority of patients with congenital EAC stenosis that developed cholesteatoma were diagnosed at age <12 years.

Conclusion

CAA is associated with a low risk of cholesteatoma formation, and surveillance imaging is unnecessary in asymptomatic patients. EAC stenosis is strongly associated with cholesteatoma, and a surveillance scan for these patients is recommended prior to 12 years of age with close follow‐up into adulthood.
To BDZ or not to BDZ? That is the question! Is there reliable scientific evidence for or against using benzodiazepines in the aftermath of potentially traumatic events for the prevention of PTSD? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Campos Bruna , Vinder Vitor , Passos Roberta Benitez Freitas , Coutinho Evandro Silva Freire , Vieira Norma Cavalcanti Pontilhão , Leal Katherine Branco , Mendlowicz Mauro Vitor , Figueira Ivan , Luz Mariana Pires , Marques-Portela Carla , Vilete Liliane Maria Pereira , Berger William
Published: April 2022

Background:

Most international guidelines suggest that benzodiazepines (BDZs) may be inefficient or iatrogenic in the aftermath of a potentially traumatic event (PTE). The goal of this study was to assess the strength of the evidence on whether the use of BDZs in the aftermath of a PTE negatively affects the incidence and severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Methods:

We systematically scrutinized the ISI Web of Knowledge, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and PTSDpubs electronic databases in addition to citation searching. We included original studies providing data about the development of PTSD in adults after BDZ administration in the aftermath of a PTE. We screened 387 abstracts and selected eight studies for the qualitative synthesis and seven for the meta-analysis. We performed two separate meta-analyses, one for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and the other for cohort studies. Heterogeneity between studies was evaluated with Higgins I² statistic and tested using the χ². This study was registered at PROSPERO (number 127170).

Results:

The meta-analysis of the cohort studies showed an increased risk of PTSD in patients who received BDZs compared to those who did not (risk ratio (RR) = 1.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05–2.23) with a modest heterogeneity among studies ( I2 = 41.8, p = 0.143). Regarding the RCTs, the combined measure revealed a tendency toward an increased severity of the PTSD symptoms (standardized mean difference (SMD): 0.24; 95% CI: 0.32–0.79).

Conclusion:

The studies reviewed showed a possible harmful effect of BDZs when used immediately after a PTE. However, these conclusions were based on a small number of studies of poor to moderate methodological quality.
Magnetic resonance imaging as a first-choice imaging modality in carpal tunnel syndrome: new evidence
Authors: Vo Nhu Quynh , Nguyen Duy Duan , Hoang Ngoc Thanh , Ngo Dac Hong An , Nguyen Thi Hieu Dung , Trong Binh Le , Le Nghi Thanh Nhan , Thanh Thao Nguyen
Published: April 2022

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common type of peripheral nerve compression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is becoming more popular in practice in the evaluation of CTS.

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic value of MRI in CTS.

Material and Methods

A cross-sectional study of 39 wrists was conducted. Clinical and nerve conduction study findings were evaluated and graded according to the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) and the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine. MRI was performed using a 1.5-T scanner. MRI parameters included cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve and the ratio change in CSA at four levels: distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ-CSA); pisiform (p-CSA); middle of the carpal tunnel (i-CSA); and hook of hamate. The ratio change in CSA was expressed as p-CSA/DRUJ-CSA and ΔCSA (difference between iCSA and DRUJ-CSA), the flattening ratio of the median nerve, the thickness of the flexor retinaculum, flexor retinaculum bowing ratio, signal intensity ratio of the median, nerve and hypothenar muscle signal intensity.

Results

With a cutoff point of 10.9 mm2 of the p-CSA, MRI had a sensitivity and specificity of 97.4% and 80% for diagnosis of CTS, respectively. There was a significant association between the clinical and electrophysiological stage with MRI findings ( P < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between the BCTQ score and MRI parameters (0.5 < r < 0.7, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

MRI has good diagnostic value in evaluating CTS. We recommend using p-CSA ≥10.9 mm2 and ΔCSA ≥2.3 mm2 as MRI diagnostic criteria of CTS.
A novel Wim Hof psychophysiological training program to reduce stress responses during an Antarctic expedition
Authors: Petraskova Touskova Tereza , Bob Petr , Bares Zdenek , Vanickova Zdislava , Nyvlt Daniel , Raboch Jiri
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of this prospective observational study was to investigate the effects of a novel Wim Hof psychophysiological training program on stress responses and hormone release in healthy participants during an Antarctic expedition.

Methods

All members of an Antarctic expedition were included in the study. The participants were healthy volunteers allocated to an intervention group (n = 6) and a control group (n = 7). The intervention consisted of 8 weeks of Wim Hof training. The training program comprised three integrated parts: breathing exercises, cold exposure and meditation. Psychometric measures (the Beck Depression Inventory and the Trauma Symptom Checklist-40) and neuroendocrine measures (cortisol, melatonin) were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Results

The results showed that the 8-week training program significantly reduced stress responses, as indicated by a reduction in depressive symptoms. A non-significant reduction in cortisol was also observed.

Conclusions

These data constitute preliminary findings indicating that the Wim Hof Method may positively affect stress symptoms and adaptability of the hormonal system to respond adequately to the circadian rhythm in healthy volunteers who participated in an Antarctic expedition.
Heterosexual Young Adults’ Experience With and Perceptions of the Orgasm Gap: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Wetzel Grace M. , Sanchez Diana T.
Published: April 2022

The “orgasm gap” refers to the finding that cisgender men, on average, have more orgasms than cisgender women during heterosexual partnered sex. In the current research, we replicated evidence for several orgasm discrepancies across sexual contexts and assessed men’s and women’s perceptions of the orgasm gap. Our sample consisted of 276 heterosexual, cisgender, sexually active undergraduate students (56.52% women; M age = 18.84). We assessed participants’ self-reported orgasm frequencies with a familiar partner, with a new partner, and during masturbation, as well as participants’ perceptions of their partners’ orgasm frequencies. We found evidence for orgasm discrepancies between young men and women within contexts and for women across contexts. Additionally, men perceived the size of the orgasm gap to be smaller than women perceived it to be. We used qualitative analyses to assess participants’ perceptions of driving forces behind the orgasm gap and their responses could be grouped into five overarching themes: Sociocultural Influence, Women’s Orgasm Difficulty, Biology, Men’s Fault, and Interpersonal Communication. This qualitative data can inform education and advocacy efforts focused on improving orgasm outcomes for young women, particularly by disproving prominent biological justifications for orgasm difference and addressing relevant sociocultural concerns. Additional online materials for this article are available on PWQ’s website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/03616843221076410 .
The Association Between Nursing Home Information Technology Maturity and Urinary Tract Infection Among Long-Term Residents
Authors: Cohen Catherine C. , Powell Kimberly , Dick Andrew W. , Stone Patricia W. , Alexander Gregory L.
Published: April 2022

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common infections among nursing home (NH) residents. Antibiotics are often misused when a UTI is suspected. Using sophisticated information technology (IT) could help in appropriate UTI prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This repeated cross-sectional study explored relationships between IT maturity and UTI prevalence among long-stay NH residents. Data were from (1) four annual surveys 2013–2017 measuring IT maturity in a random sample of Medicare-certified NHs, (2) Minimum Data Set assessments for resident characteristics, and (3) Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reporting data for facility characteristics. In multivariate regressions using NH fixed effects, controlling for resident and NH characteristics, Administrative IT maturity in NHs was associated with decreased odds of UTI (AOR: 0.906, 95% CI: 0.843, 0.973). These results were robust in all sensitivity analyses. Using IT to relieve administrative burden may decrease UTIs.
The Age-Friendly Community Policy Movement and the Residential Location of U.S. Older Adults: The Case of Hamilton County, Ohio
Authors: Kim Jongwoong
Published: April 2022

This study maps and discusses the status of the age-friendly community movement in a United States (U.S.) residential-geographic context using the AARP Livability Index and Hamilton County, Ohio, as a case study. The framework for the construction of this index shares multiple commonalities with the World Health Organization’s widely adopted Age-Friendly Cities and Communities framework. Via visual inspection of maps and spatial analytics, this study compares geographic locations and spatial patterns of census tracts in terms of their residence desirability for older adults based on the Livability Index and actual residence locations of adults aged 65+ in Hamilton County. The comparison reveals that the actual residence locations of older adults differ from those that are most desirable. Given this difference between actual location choices and ideal or age-friendly residential environments, the age-friendly movement needs to discuss the gap between its framework, exemplified here by the AARP Livability Index, and reality to promote and implement its policies more effectively, especially in the U.S.
The Association Between Dating Violence and Student Absenteeism Among a Representative Sample of U.S. High School Students: Findings From the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Survey
Authors: Cheung Wendy Wei , Caduff Anita , Raj Anita
Published: April 2022

Student absenteeism affects students’ engagement in school and academic and professional success. While research documents a significant association between school bullying/fighting and student absenteeism due to fear of being at school or getting to school, little research has examined the association of adolescent dating violence (ADV) victimization with this type of absenteeism. This study examined the relationship between physical and/or sexual ADV victimization in the past year (dichotomized as yes or no), and number of days of student absenteeism due to feeling unsafe at school or on the way to school in the past month (dichotomized as any vs. none). We analyzed cross-sectional data from the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), a nationally representative survey of U.S. high school students ( n = 9507). We conducted crude and multivariate regression models for the total sample and stratified by sex to assess our hypothesized association of ADV victimization and absenteeism; sex, grade, race/ethnicity, and sexual identity were included as covariates in adjusted models. Findings demonstrate that students reporting past year ADV victimization had 3.69 times the odds of student absenteeism due to feeling unsafe, when compared to students who did not report ADV victimization (95% CI: 3.06–4.45, p < 0.001). Sex-stratified models reveal that this effect is significantly stronger for males than for females, as indicated by non-overlapping confidence intervals (male AOR: 5.67, 95% CI: 4.18–7.68; female AOR: 2.95, 95% CI: 2.32–3.74). The multivariate models also show that Black and Latinx compared with White students, and lesbian/gay/bisexual/unsure compared with heterosexual students, had higher odds of student absenteeism due to feeling unsafe. Findings indicate the need to address ADV victimization and student absenteeism with integrated and gender-tailored responses, and with consideration of greater vulnerabilities for queer students and students of color.
Synthesis and piezoelectric photocatalytic, mechanical, and electrical properties of porous t-BaTiO3/Ag/β-PVDF composite material
Authors: Jiao Hua , Jin Jiechen , Zhao Kang , Zhou Xue R , Zhang Xinyuan , Song Sen , Wang Jia , Tang Yufei , Cui Guodong
Published: April 2022

Barium titanate (BaTiO3) is a typical perovskite-type oxide with high dielectric constant, low dielectric loss, and excellent ferroelectric, piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and other properties. In view of the low photogenerated electron-hole separation efficiency of T-BT itself, it is proposed to prepare nanocomposites with good catalytic performance by compound modification with Ag. Considering repeated use, on the basis of powder catalysis, a porous block is prepared by compounding powder and organic polymer PVDF. In this study, the t-BaTiO3/Ag/β-PVDF composite material with porosity of ∼70.4% was prepared with the raw material of PVDF and piezoelectric t-BaTiO3/Ag. The mechanical and piezoelectric photocatalytic properties of the composite material was studied systematically. The piezoelectric coefficient d 33 is 1.44 pC/N which can be explained by COMSOL simulation calculation. Moreover, the compressive strength is 1.76 MPa. The degradation MO and RhB results indicated that t-BaTiO3/Ag/β-PVDF composite material had good degradation and cycle stability.