bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex-dependent influence of maternal predictors on fetal anthropometry in pregnancies with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Antoniou Maria-Christina , Gilbert Leah , Gross Justine , Rossel Jean-Benoît , Fumeaux Céline Julie Fischer , Vial Yvan , Puder Jardena Jacqueline
Published: June 2022

Background

Third trimester fetal anthropometric parameters are known to predict neonatal complications. A better understanding of predictors of adverse fetal parameters might help to personalize the use and frequency of fetal ultrasound. The objectives of this study were:

(a) to evaluate the utility of maternal sociodemographic, anthropometric and metabolic predictors to predict 3rd trimester fetal anthropometric parameters in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM),

(b) to assess whether the impact of these maternal predictors is fetal sex-dependent, and

(c) to provide a risk stratification for markers of fetal overgrowth (fetal weight centile (FWC) and fetal abdominal circumference centile (FACC) depending on prepregnancy BMI and gestational weight gain (GWG) until the 1st GDM visit.

Methods

This prospective study included 189 women with GDM. Maternal predictors were age, ethnicity, prepregnancy BMI, GWG and excessive weight gain until the 1st GDM visit, fasting, 1-hour and 2-hour blood glucose oral glucose tolerance test values, HbA1c at the 1st visit and medical treatment requirement. Fetal outcomes included FWC, FWC >90% and <10%, FACC, FACC >90% and <10%, at 29 0/7 to 35 6/7 weeks of gestational age. We performed univariate and multivariate regression analyses and probability analyses.

Results

In multivariate analyses, prepregnancy BMI was associated with FWC, FWC > 90% and FACC. GWG until the 1st GDM visit was associated with FWC, FACC and FACC > 90% (all p ≤ 0.045). Other maternal parameters were not significantly associated with fetal anthropometry in multivariate analyses (all p ≥ 0.054). In female fetuses, only GWG was associated with FACC (p= 0.044). However, in male fetuses, prepregnancy BMI was associated with FWC, FWC > 90% and FACC and GWG with FWC in multivariate analyses (all p ≤ 0.030). In women with a prepregnancy BMI of ≥ 25 kg/m2 and a GWG until the 1st GDM visit ≥ 10.3 kg (mean GWG), the risk for FWC > 90% and FACC > 90% was 5.3 and 4 times higher than in their counterparts.

Conclusions

A personalized fetal ultrasound surveillance guided by fetal sex, prepregnancy BMI and GWG may be beneficial in reducing adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes.
Efficacy of osimertinib in epidermal growth factor receptor-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer patients with pleural effusion
Authors: Nokihara Hiroshi , Ogino Hirokazu , Mitsuhashi Atsushi , Kondo Kensuke , Ogawa Ei , Ozaki Ryohiko , Yabuki Yohei , Yoneda Hiroto , Otsuka Kenji , Nishioka Yasuhiko
Published: June 2022

Background

Osimertinib is a standard first-line treatment for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Although malignant pleural effusion (PE) is a common clinical problem in NSCLC, information about the efficacy of osimertinib in patients with PE is limited, especially regarding its efficacy in EGFR T790M-negative patients with PE remains unclear.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations who were treated with osimertinib in our institution between May 2016 and December 2020.

Results

A total of 63 patients with EGFR mutated NSCLC were treated with osimertinib; 33 (12 with PE) had no EGFR T790M mutation, while 30 (12 with PE) had EGFR T790M mutation. In EGFR T790M-negative NSCLC, the progression-free survival (PFS) of the patients with PE was comparable to that of the patients without PE (median PFS 19.8 vs. 19.8 months, p = 0.693). In EGFR T790M- positive NSCLC, the PFS and overall survival (OS) of the patients with PE were significantly shorter than those of the patients without PE (median PFS 16.8 vs. 8.3 months, p = 0.003; median OS 44.9 vs. 14.2 months, p = 0.007). In the multivariate analysis, the presence of PE was independently associated with shorter PFS and OS in EGFR T790M-positive NSCLC patients, but not EGFR T790M-negative patients.

Conclusions

These data suggest the efficacy of osimertinib may differ between EGFR T790M-positive and -negative NSCLC patients with PE.
A two-center pilot study on the effects of clinical ethics support on coercive measures in psychiatry
Authors: Stoll Julia , Westermair Anna Lisa , Kübler Ulrike , Reisch Thomas , Cattapan Katja , Bridler René , Maier Robert , Trachsel Manuel
Published: June 2022

Background

The use of formal coercion such as seclusion, mechanical restraint, and forced medication is one of the most challenging and complex issues in mental health care, on the clinical, the legal, and the ethical level. Clinical ethics support aims at assisting healthcare practitioners in determining the morally most justifiable course of action in these situations. However, the effectiveness of clinical ethics support has hardly been studied so far.

Methods

Monthly moral case deliberation (MCD) was implemented in two acute wards of two different psychiatric hospitals in Switzerland. Frequency and intensity of coercion was measured on ward level (npatients = 405), and the Moral Attentiveness Scale, Knowledge on Coercion Scale, and Staff Attitudes towards Coercion Scale were applied on healthcare practitioner level (nHP = 46). Pre-post-comparisons were conducted using multi-level modeling where appropriate.

Results

After implementation of MCD, formal coercion was less frequent (particularly seclusion, small effect size; 9.6 vs. 16.7%, p = .034, Cramér’s V = .105) and less intense (particularly mechanical restraint, large effect size; 86.8 ± 45.3 vs. 14.5 ± 12.1 h, exact p = .019, r = -.74), and approval for coercive measures among healthcare practitioners was lower when controlling for the number of MCD sessions attended.

Conclusions

Clinical ethics support such as MCD may be a hitherto underutilized service for the reduction of coercion, complementing existing strategies and programs. Implementing clinical ethics support may help improve quality of care for persons suffering from severe mental illness.
I (Don’t) want to consume counterfeit medicines: exploratory study on the antecedents of consumer attitudes toward counterfeit medicines
Authors: Ofori-Parku Sylvester Senyo , Park Sung Eun
Published: June 2022

Background

Substandard and falsified medicine (SFM) sales (an estimated > $200 billion) has become one of the worlds’ fastest growing criminal enterprises. It presents an enormous public health and safety challenge. While the developed world is not precluded from this challenge, studies focus on low-income countries. They emphasize supply chain processes, technological, and legal mechanisms, paying less attention to consumer judgment and decision-making aspects.

Methods

With attention to the demand side of the counterfeit medicines challenge, this survey of U.S. consumers (n = 427) sheds light on some of the social, psychological, and normative factors that underlie consumers’ attitudes, risk perceptions, and purchase intentions.

Results

Consumers who (a) self-report that they know about the problem, (b) are older, (c) view counterfeit medicine consumption as ethical, and (d) think their significant others would approve of them using such products are more inclined to perceive lower risks and have favorable purchase intentions. Risk averseness is also inversely related to the predicted outcomes.

Perceived benefit of SFMs is a factor but has no effect when risk perception and aversion, attitudes, and subjective norms are factored into the model that predicts purchase intentions.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that consumer knowledge (albeit in an unexpected direction), people’s expectations about what will impress their significant others, their ethical judgments about selling and consuming counterfeits, and their risk-aversion are associated with their decision-making about counterfeit medicines. The study offers insights into a demand-side approach to addressing SFM consumption in the U.S. Implications for public health, consumer safety, and brand advocacy education are discussed.
Protocol paper: a multi-center, double-blinded, randomized, 6-month, placebo-controlled study followed by 12-month open label extension to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Saracatinib in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (STOPFOP)
Authors: Smilde Bernard J. , Stockklausner Clemens , Keen Richard , Whittaker Andrew , Bullock Alex N. , von Delft Annette , van Schoor Natasja M. , Yu Paul B. , Eekhoff E. Marelise W.
Published: June 2022

Background

Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) is a genetic, progressive and devastating disease characterized by severe heterotopic ossification (HO), loss of mobility and early death. There are no FDA approved medications. The STOPFOP team identified AZD0530 (saracatinib) as a potent inhibitor of the ALK2/ACVR1-kinase which is the causative gene for this rare bone disease. AZD0530 was proven to prevent HO formation in FOP mouse models. The STOPFOP trial investigates the repositioning of AZD0530, originally developed for ovarian cancer treatment, to treat patients with FOP.

Methods

The STOPFOP trial is a phase 2a study. It is designed as a European, multicentre, 6-month double blind randomized controlled trial of AZD0530 versus placebo, followed by a 12-month trial comparing open-label extended AZD0530 treatment with natural history data as a control. Enrollment will include 20 FOP patients, aged 18–65 years, with the classic FOP mutation (ALK2 R206H). The primary endpoint is objective change in heterotopic bone volume measured by low-dose whole-body computer tomography (CT) in the RCT phase. Secondary endpoints include 18F NaF PET activity and patient reported outcome measures.

Discussion

Clinical trials in rare diseases with limited study populations pose unique challenges. An ideal solution for limiting risks in early clinical studies is drug repositioning – using existing clinical molecules for new disease indications. Using existing assets may also allow a more fluid transition into clinical practice.

With positive study outcome, AZD0530 may provide a therapy for FOP that can be rapidly progressed due to the availability of existing safety data from 28 registered clinical trials with AZD0530 involving over 600 patients.

Trial registration

EudraCT, 2019–003324-20. Registered 16 October 2019, https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2019-003324-20/NL. Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04307953. Registered 13 March 2020.
Comparison of clinical outcomes of three internal fixation techniques in the treatment of olecranon fracture: a retrospective clinical study
Authors: Qi Hongfei , Li Zhong , Lu Yao , Ma Teng , Ji Shuai , Du Bing , Li Ming , Huang Qiang , Zhang Kun , Yang Yanling
Published: June 2022

Objective

The application of double plating in olecranon fractures is becoming increasingly widespread. There is no research comparing this technique with traditional tension band wiring (TBW) and the single plate technique. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of three fixation techniques in olecranon fractures.

Materials and methods

From March 2016 to May 2020, we collected the clinical data of 95 patients with olecranon fractures who underwent surgical treatment. Thirty-five patients received TBW surgery (TBW Group), 32 patients received a 3.5 mm locking compression plate (LCP, 3.5 mm LCP Group), and 28 patients received double mini-locking plate treatment (DP Group). The operation time, fracture union time, time of return to work, range of motion (ROM), soft tissue stimulation to remove internal fixation, and patient-related functional results (the Weseley score, Mayo Elbow Performance Score [MEPS], and Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score [DASH]) were recorded. The clinical results and complications of the three internal fixation techniques were compared.

Results

The average follow-up time was 15.011.82 months (12–18 months). All patients’ fractures healed by first intention. There were no statistically significant differences in the operation time, fracture union time, ROM, Weseley score, MEPS or DASH scores of the three groups of patients. The postoperative return time for patients in the TBW group was 10.002.15 weeks, the 3.5 mm LCP group was 9.561.93 weeks, and the DP group was 8.432.38 weeks (P = 0.014); 12 patients in the TBW group required removal of plant due to soft tissue stimulation, the 3.5 mm LCP group had 8 cases, and the DP group had 2 cases (P = 0.038).

Conclusion

The postoperative clinical results and elbow joint function of patients with olecranon fractures fixed by tension band wiring, 3.5 mm LCP and double mini-locking plate are similar, which indicates that double-plate technology can be used as an alternative to the two groups of traditional techniques. In addition, double-plate technology also helps patients return to work earlier and has a lower incidence of soft tissue stimulation.
A proposal for changing nomenclature from pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) to abdomino-peritoneal mucinous carcinoma (APM) based on its long journey and experience from tertiary oncology center in India
Authors: Ray M. D. , Gaur Manish Kumar , Kumar Chandan , Deo S. V. S.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a generalized term, usually known as “jelly belly” since 1884. Incidence is very low, 1–3 per million people per year. Because of its indolent nature, it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, thereby impacting the quality of life. The 5-year survival rate varies from 23 to 86% in world literature. Even 10 years and 20 years of survival have been described. With our experience, we like to propose rename of PMP as abdomino-peritoneal mucinous carcinoma (APM) as we strongly feel the time has come to specify the term and standardize the management strategy.

Methodology

In the premier institute of India and as a tertiary referral center, we experienced the maximum number of advanced cases of APM. From 2012 to 2021, we analyzed all the APM patients based on a prospectively maintained computerized database in the department of surgical oncology and found the reasons for renaming from this traditional one.

Results

We included a total of 87 patients who underwent surgical intervention. Thirty-five patients underwent cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), and 52 patients underwent debulking. In CRS-HIPEC patients, CC-0 was achieved in 28 patients (80%), CC-1 in 4 patients (11.4%), and CC-2 in 3 patients (8.6%). Palliative intent HIPEC was done in 3 patients (8.6%). Clavien-Dindo grade III and IV morbidity was observed in 18.8% of patients with 90 days mortality of 5.7%.

Conclusion

With our long-term experience and advancement of scientific evidence, we like to propose a new name for PMP as APM. We strongly believe this paper will give a clear picture of this rare disease and standard management outlines.
Integrated lung ultrasound score for early clinical decision-making in patients with COVID-19: results and implications
Authors: Dell’Aquila Paola , Raimondo Pasquale , Racanelli Vito , De Luca Paola , De Matteis Sandra , Pistone Antonella , Melodia Rosa , Crudele Lucilla , Lomazzo Daniela , Solimando Antonio Giovanni , Moschetta Antonio , Vacca Angelo , Grasso Salvatore , Procacci Vito , Orso Daniele , Vetrugno Luigi
Published: June 2022

Background and objectives

Lung Ultrasound Score (LUS) identifies and monitors pneumonia by assigning increasing scores. However, it does not include parameters, such as inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter and index of collapse, diaphragmatic excursions and search for pleural and pericardial effusions. Therefore, we propose a new improved scoring system, termed “integrated” lung ultrasound score (i-LUS) which incorporates previously mentioned parameters that can help in prediction of disease severity and survival, choice of oxygenation mode/ventilation and assignment to subsequent areas of care in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods

Upon admission at the sub-intensive section of the emergency medical department (SEMD), 143 consecutively examined COVID-19 patients underwent i-LUS together with all other routine analysis. A database for anamnestic information, laboratory data, gas analysis and i-LUS parameters was created and analyzed.

Results

Of 143 enrolled patients, 59.4% were male (mean age 71 years) and 40.6% female. (mean age 79 years: p = 0.005). Patients that survived at 1 month had i-LUS score of 16, which was lower than that of non-survivors (median 20; p = 0.005). Survivors had a higher PaO2/FiO2 (median 321.5) compared to non-survivors (median 229, p < 0.001). There was a correlation between i-LUS and PaO2/FiO2 ratio (rho:-0.4452; p < 0.001), PaO2/FiO2 and survival status (rho:-0.3452; p < 0.001), as well as i-LUS score and disease outcome (rho:0.24; p = 0.005). In non-survivors, the serum values of different significant COVID indicators were severely expressed. The i-LUS score was higher (median 20) in patients who required non-invasive ventilation (NIV) than in those treated only by oxygen therapy (median 15.42; p = 0.003). The odds ratio for death outcome was 1.08 (confidence interval 1.02–1.15) for each point increased. At 1-month follow-up, 65 patients (45.5%) died and 78 (54.5%) survived. Patients admitted to the high critical ward had higher i-LUS score than those admitted to the low critical one (p < 0.003).

Conclusions

i-LUS could be used as a helpful clinical tool for early decision-making in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.
A Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization with Dragonfly for Adaptive ANFIS to Model the Corrosion Rate in Concrete Structures
Authors: Khayati Gholam Reza , Rajabi Zahra , Ehteshamzadeh Maryam , Beirami Hadi
Published: June 2022

The use of reinforced concrete is common in marine structures. Failure of reinforcement due to corrosion has detrimental impacts on nearly all of these structures. Hence, proposing an accurate and reliable model was imperative. The goal of this paper is to develop a new hybrid model by combining Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) with Dragonfly Algorithm (DA) for Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) to predict the corrosion current density (C11) of marine reinforced concrete. The neuro-fuzzy-based methods have emerged as suitable techniques for encountering uncertainties associated with the corrosion phenomenon in marine structures. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first research that predicts theC11through a model integrating fuzzy learning, neural learning rules, and meta-heuristics. 2460 data are collected from 37 regions in Persian Gulf. The input parameters are age, concrete repairing history, height above the sea level, distance from sea, concrete compressive strength, rebar diameter, concrete cover depth, concrete electrical resistivity, chloride ion concentration and pH. The proposed rules for the estimation ofC11based on collected dataset are assessed based on the several metrics such asR2, efficiency, mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and median of absolute error (MEDAE). According to the results, ANFIS-PSO–DA enables to predictC11byR2(0.92), MAPE (1.67), MEDAE (0.14), and EF (0.97). The results of sensitivity analysis revealed that concrete compressive strength and pH are the most effective parameters on the corrosion current density of reinforced concrete.
Intracycle power distribution in a heterogeneous multi-compartmental mathematical model: possible links to strain and VILI
Authors: Crooke Philip S. , Gattinoni Luciano , Michalik Michael , Marini John J.
Published: June 2022

Background

Repeated expenditure of energy and its generation of damaging strain are required to injure the lung by ventilation (VILI). Mathematical modeling of passively inflated, single-compartment lungs with uniform parameters for resistance and compliance indicates that standard clinical modes (flow patterns) differ impressively with respect to the timing and intensity of energy delivery—the intracycle power (ICP) that determines parenchymal stress and strain. Although measures of elastic ICP may accurately characterize instantaneous rates of global energy delivery, how the ICP component delivered to a compartment affects the VILI-linked variable of strain is determined by compartmental mechanics, compartmental size and mode of gas delivery. We extended our one-compartment model of ICP to a multi-compartment setting that varied those characteristics.

Main findings

The primary findings of this model/simulation indicate that: (1) the strain and strain rate experienced within a modeled compartment are nonlinear functions of delivered energy and power, respectively; (2) for a given combination of flow profile and tidal volume, resting compartmental volumes influence their resulting maximal strains in response to breath delivery; (3) flow profile is a key determinant of the maximal strain as well as maximal strain rate experienced within a multi-compartment lung. By implication, different clinician-selected flow profiles not only influence the timing of power delivery, but also spatially distribute the attendant strains of expansion among compartments with diverse mechanical properties. Importantly, the contours and magnitudes of the compartmental ICP, strain, and strain rate curves are not congruent; strain and strain rate do not necessarily follow the compartmental ICP, and the hierarchy of amplitudes among compartments for these variables may not coincide.

Conclusions

Different flow patterns impact how strain and strain rate develop as compartmental volume crests to its final value. Notably, as inflation proceeds, strain rate may rise or fall even as total strain, a monotonic function of volume, steadily (and predictably) rises. Which flow pattern serves best to minimize the maximal strain rate and VILI risk experienced within any sector, therefore, may strongly depend on the nature and heterogeneity of the mechanical properties of the injured lung.
Successful pregnancies in an adolescent with Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich (HWW) syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Aljahdali Ettedal A. , Sharafuddin Leena I. , Baamer Wejdan O. , Enani Maram A. , Alzhrani Fotoon S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Müllerian anomaly is a congenital defect in the development of the female reproductive system that varies according to the stage of developmental failure resulting in agenesis, hypoplasia, or fusion defect in one or both Mullerian ducts; in such patients, it is expected to have higher pregnancy and delivery complications.

Case presentation

This case presentation of a 14-year-old adolescent girl with uterine didelphys, obstructed right hemi-vagina, and ipsilateral renal agenesis (Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome, HWW) that was corrected surgically, then got married at the age of 16 with successful two consecutive term uncomplicated pregnancies of favorable maternal and fetal outcomes without a history of any miscarriage or recurrent collections.

Conclusions

Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome is a rare case and represents a challenge to diagnose and treat especially in pediatrics and adolescents. Early recognition and treatment will help to improve outcome and reduce possible complications resulting from obstruction with retrograde menstruation and its consequences. Successful early management of our patient improved her quality of life by relieving her cyclical obstructive pain, preserve fertility, and normal sexual life.
Integrating Immunotherapy Into the Treatment Landscape for Patients With Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Dixon-Douglas Julia , Loibl Sibylle , Denkert Carsten , Telli Melinda , Loi Sherene
Published: June 2022

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive histologic subtype of breast cancer for which, until recently, treatment options have been limited to chemotherapy. In recent years, an improved understanding of the importance of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and the tumor microenvironment in TNBC has led to investigation of immune checkpoint inhibitors for treatment. There is now evidence from several randomized controlled trials that supports the addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors to first-line treatment of advanced TNBC and to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for stage II–III TNBC. In parallel, the PARP inhibitors have emerged as a targeted therapy option for patients with HER2-negative breast cancer harboring mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2. Here, we review the recent clinical trials that inform the integration of immune checkpoint inhibitors into treatments for TNBC and discuss ongoing challenges—including patient selection, management of resistance to post–checkpoint inhibitor therapy, and combining immunotherapy with targeted therapies, including PARP inhibitors.
Maternal Thyroid Function and Birth Weight in Twins
Authors: Liu Xiao Song , Su Xiu Juan , Li Guo Hua , Huang Shi Jia , Liu Yang , Sun Han Xiang , Du Qiao Ling
Published: June 2022

Context

Thyroid hormones are associated with birth weight in singleton pregnancy. Twin pregnancies need more thyroid hormones to maintain the normal growth and development of the fetuses compared with single pregnancy.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the association of thyroid hormones and birth weight in twins.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study in a Chinese population. Pregnant women who received regular antenatal health care and delivered live-born twins from 2014 to 2019 were included (n = 1626). Linear mixed model with restricted cubic splines and logistic regression models were used to estimate the association of thyroid hormones with birth weight and birth weight discordance in twins.

Results

We observed that both thyrotropin (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) were not associated with birth weight in twins overall, while when stratifying on fetal sex or chorionicity, there were nonlinear association between FT4 levels and birth weight in boys (Pnonlinear < .001) and in dichorionic (DC) twins (Pnonlinear = 0.03). Women with levels of FT4 lower than the 10th percentile had a higher risk of birth weight discordance in their offspring than women with normal FT4 levels (range, 2.5 to 97.5 percentiles) (odds ratio = 1.58; 95% CI, 1.05-2.33).

Conclusion

Our study suggests there was an association of FT4, but not TSH, with birth weight and birth weight discordance varied by sex and chorionicity. These findings could have implications for obstetricians to be aware of the importance of FT4 levels in preventing birth weight discordance in twin pregnancy.
Police Force Size and Civilian Race
Authors: Chalfin Aaron , Hansen Benjamin , Weisburst Emily K. , Williams Morgan C.
Published: June 2022

We report novel empirical estimates of the race-specific effects of larger police forces in the United States. Each additional police officer abates approximately 0.1 homicides. In per capita terms, effects are twice as large for Black versus White victims. Larger police forces also make fewer arrests for serious crimes, with larger reductions for crimes with Black suspects, implying that police force growth does not increase racial disparities among the most serious charges. At the same time, larger police forces make more arrests for low-level “quality-of-life” offenses, with effects that imply a disproportionate impact for Black Americans. (JEL H76, J15, K42)
Unequal Jury Representation and Its Consequences
Authors: Anwar Shamena , Bayer Patrick , Hjalmarsson Randi
Published: June 2022

We analyze the extent and consequences of unequal representation on juries in Harris County, Texas. We first document that residents from predominantly White and high-income neighborhoods are substantially overrepresented on juries. Using quasirandom variation in those called for jury duty each day, we next establish that Black defendants are more likely to be convicted and receive longer sentences from juries with more residents from these overrepresented neighborhoods. We estimate that equal representation would reduce Black defendants’ median sentence length by 50 percent and the probability of receiving a life sentence by 67  percent. Straightforward remedies could mitigate these legally unwarranted racial disparities. (JEL J15, K41)
Bone tissue engineering application on fracture healing with bone defect as assessed through osteocalcin and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) biomarker examination: experimental study on murine models
Authors: Sananta Panji , Dradjat Respati Suryanto , Rosandi Rizqi Daniar , Sugiarto Muhammad Alwy
Published: June 2022

Background:  Bone is naturally regenerable, with a high ability to repair itself. In massive segmental bone defect, bone cannot be repaired independently. Therefore, it is necessary to give a bone graft to promote the healing process. To date, autografts are the gold standard for bone grafts. However, some of the reported complications reported have led to auto-bone transplants being often disregarded. Both autografts or allografts also have some issues. Therefore, in an effort to develop alternative treatments for correcting bone defects and their consequences, bone tissue engineering (BTE) has gained popularity and is nowadays being researched as a potential alternative in bone defect management. There are three fundamental components in BTE combined: biomaterials (scaffolds), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and growth factors. The combination of these components is believed to help the healing process of bone defects. 

Methods: This work was an animal study involving twenty Wistar strain Rattus norvegicus. They were divided into five groups: negative group (normal rats), positive group (rats with the bone defect without intervention), K-P1 group (rats with bone defect given SVF and porous carbonated- hydroxyapatite (HA)application), K-P2 group (rats with bone defect given SVF and nanocrystalline-HA application) and K-P3 (rats with bone defect giving SVF a bovine-HA application). After 30 days, the rats were sacrificed, the biomarkers osteocalcin and BMP-2 were evaluated. Biomarkers were quantified using ELISA.

Results: Both osteocalcin and BMP-2 biomarker expressions were higher in intervention group (with SVF and scaffolds application) compared to the positive group (with no SVF and scaffolds treatment). The combination of SVF and bovine HA was reported significantly to have the highest osteocalcin and BMP levels when compared with other groups

Conclusions: A combined application of SVF and scaffolds could aid the healing process in murine models with bone defect, marked by increasing levels of osteocalcin and BMP-2.
Sign, function and life: Thinking epistemologically about biosemiotics
Authors: Toutain Anne-Gaëlle
Published: June 2022

This article focuses on an epistemological analysis, Bachelardian and Saussurean, of the problematics of biosemiotics. This discipline is first characterized in its general features, and in contrast with biolinguistics – a characterization that allows us to see its foundation on the traditional definition of the sign. Then, the Saussurean break with this traditional definition is explained, and with it the theorization which is constitutive of the Saussurean concept of language (la langue), explaining the given: the idioms. Biosemiotics appears in this “recurrent light” as a scientific ideology in the sense of Georges Canguilhem. It is a counterpart of structuralism, another scientific ideology, which emphasized the notion of structure, whereas this time it is the sound/sense relationship that is at the heart of the elaboration. Its commonality of problematics with and its singularity in relation to biolinguistics appear at the same time: if biolinguistics and biosemiotics both ignore the heterogeneity and the discontinuity constitutive of language, the reductionism of biosemiotics takes the form of a dissolution instead of the organicism underlying biolinguistics.
Unheard Voices in the Trans-Himalayan Politics - Tibetan Reincarnation and the Larger Political Goal of CCP
Authors: Thinley Wangchuk
Published: June 2022

This research paper through empirical research aims to analyze the unique tradition of the reincarnation system of Tibetan Buddhism since the 11th century and the role of China. The first part of the paper will deal with the four schools of Tibetan Buddhism and the various traditional methods used to recognize the reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism starting from 11th century to present, as rituals are playing a vital role in the process of finding Trulku or reincarnation of enlightened individuals at the time of death of an individual. The second part will examine the role of CCP in Tibetan reincarnation through its state-approved religious laws, how CCP is planning to recognize the 14th Dalai Lama’s reincarnation to fulfill the larger political goal of Chinese Communist Party. The third part aims to understand China’s cultural assimilation policy in Tibet, similar to that of the ‘Go West Han population’ employed in Xinjiang.
Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the Indian Retail Banking Sector
Authors: Saldanha Avil , Nitin Kevin
Published: June 2022

This study looks at how banking, specifically retail banking has been affected in the eyes of the average customer due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study examines how the retail banking sector has been affected. The main focus is on if and how there has been a change in preference or perspective on how individuals interact with their banks. If there has been a drop in terms of service quality, response time and also an understanding of how secure they believe it is to conduct banking activities online or digitally. The study also takes a look at if individuals have used Unified Payments Interface, and their preference towards it. Furthermore, the study looks at if individual’s consumption patterns have changed and so on. The data was gathered using an online Google form that was circulated using social media, the results were then compiled, analyzed and the interpretations were made to understand how exactly the COVID-19 pandemic affected or didn’t affect the retail banking sector’s customer base.
COVID-19 Outbreak: Activating Congruous Internal Marketing Communication Strategies
Authors: Goyal Mukta , Srivastava Abhishek
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is a disaster situation unlike any other that we have seen in living memory, impacting virtually any company across the globe. In a time like this, it is crucial for the organization to make internal relations a priority. In doing so, you need to ensure that your administrators use the best resources to keep staff well informed, which will give the company a greater chance to stay on track and keep your people safe. With a deeper understanding in connection with lockdown scenario in the period of COVID-19, many new and abnormal solutions turns into new normal. However, with loads of problems, somehow together we have now managed to turn our business with new dealings followed by varied mysteries. Undoubtedly, we are now turning into a noble mechanism as to drive in the direction of finding conclusive and ground-breaking results for the mass concerns in association with Internal Marketing Communications. For business leaders, their public response to the challenges of lockdown, furlough and staff health and safety were fundamental in determining public opinion of the brand, with a clear knock-on effect to customer loyalty and sales. Despite of challenges faced by organisations which are unparalleled to the existing scenario and can pretend like devastating effect in the pandemic situation, here in this paper, researchers have tried to drag the concepts of disruption of services with different prominent organisations in connection with the management of sales along with the requirements to manage workforce to induce them to operate remotely and off-course in analysing situations. Researchers have also focused on the issues like health & welfare of workforces and providing significant contribution to the society as well. In the face of a crippling pandemic, technology has emerged as a major lifesaver. Communication is a major key to our interconnected existence and technology is the driving force that maintains our connections.
Polish Psychiatric Association diagnostic and therapeutic management guidelines for patients with early-onset schizophrenia
Authors: Janas-Kozik Małgorzata , Dudek Dominika , Heitzman Janusz , Remberk Barbara , Samochowiec Jerzy , Słopień Agnieszka , Wichniak Adam
Published: June 2022

Wczesne zachorowanie na schizofrenię (przed 18 r.ż.) jest związane z wyższym niż w przypadku osób dorosłych ryzkiem opóźnionej lub niewłaściwej diagnozy, cięższym przebiegiem choroby, zwiększoną wrażliwością na działania niepożądane leków przeciwpsychotycznych. Celem pracy jest przedstawienie zaleceń na temat postępowania diagnostycznego i terapeutycznego u chorych na schizofrenię o wczesnym początku, przygotowanych na podstawie przeglądu literatury i konsensusu grupy ekspertów zajmujących się leczeniem schizofrenii. Formalne kryteria, których spełnienie wymagane jest do postawienia diagnozy schizofrenii, są takie same u dzieci i u dorosłych. Schizofrenia o wczesnym początku wymaga starannego różnicowania z zaburzeniami afektywnymi jedno i dwubiegunowymi, zaburzeniami ze spektrum autyzmu (ASD), zaburzeniami lękowymi. Ocena diagnostyczna w kierunku zaburzeń psychotycznych konieczne jest także w przypadku występowania zaburzeń zachowania, zachowań niszczycielskich i agresji oraz samouszkodzeń.
Podstawową formą leczenia schizofrenii jest leczenie farmakologiczne, które jest stosowane w leczeniu ostrych epizodów, leczeniu podtrzymującym - zapobieganiu nawrotom. Stosowanie interwencji farmakologicznych u dzieci i młodzieży jedynie w celu zmniejszenie ryzyka rozwoju psychozy nie jest jednak zasadne. Leki przeciwpsychotyczne istotnie różnią się profilem tolerancji, ale też skutecznością kliniczną. Leki przeciwpsychotyczne II generacji zarejestrowane do leczenia schizofrenii o wczesnym początku – arypiprazol, lurazydon i paliperydon umożliwiają jej skuteczne i bezpieczne leczenie. Niezbędnym uzupełnieniem leczenia farmakologicznego są interwencje pozafarmakologiczne, które powinny być dostosowane do wieku pacjenta, jego możliwości poznawczych, fazy choroby, a także potrzeb całej rodziny.
Effect of forest fragment size on Polistinae (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) in a transitional area of Cerrado and Atlantic Forest in south central Minas Gerais state, Brazil
Authors: Coelho Maria Luiza Santana , Gouvêa Taiguara Pereira de , Clemente Mateus Aparecido , Souza Marcos Magalhães de
Published: June 2022

Ecosystem fragmentation negatively affects biological diversity and compromises different environmental services. This situation occurs in two important biomes in Brazil, the Atlantic Forest and the Cerrado. There is little information on the effects of fragmentation on animal taxa, including social wasps. It was hypothesized that fragments that are small in size and subject to anthropogenic pressures have reduced social wasp richness and colony numbers. This study aimed to investigate the effect of forest fragmentation on Polistinae richness and colony number at Atlantic Forest and Cerrado sites in southern central Minas Gerais State, southeastern Brazil. The study was conducted in three fragments, Mata do Baú, Cachoeira da Lajinha, and Cachoeira do Padeiro, from October 2020 to March 2021, using active collection to record social wasp species and colony numbers. A total of 42 species and 80 colonies were recorded in the three fragments. Forest fragment size alone did not influence social wasp communities, but communities were significantly affected by a combination of factors, including fragment size, adjacent vegetation, and anthropogenic pressures. Species richness was higher in Mata do Baú and Cachoeira da Lajinha, which did not differ from each other, than in Cachoeira do Padeiro; however, all fragments had exclusive communities. Therefore, an increase in anthropogenic pressure in any of the three fragments may lead to losses in social wasp species.
Taxes in Non-GAAP Reporting: Evidence of Strategic Behavior in Selecting Tax Rates Applied to Exclusions
Authors: Chen Novia (Xi) , Chiu Peng-Chia , Shevlin Terry , Wang Jiani
Published: June 2022

When reporting after-tax non–generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) earnings, firms are required to adjust for the tax effects of exclusions. Since 2010, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued and updated compliance and disclosure interpretations (C&DIs), which specifically require firms to disclose the tax effects of exclusions. We assemble a detailed, hand-collected data set of S&P 1500 firms’ disclosures to provide the first large-sample evidence on the reporting of the tax effects of non-GAAP exclusions. We find three key results. First, echoing the SEC’s concern, a significant proportion of non-GAAP reporting firms do not follow the C&DI guidelines (i.e., they do not disclose the tax effects of exclusions). Second, among firms that disclose the tax effects of exclusions, we find that managers strategically select the tax rates applied to exclusions to achieve after-tax earnings targets. Third, manager-reported non-GAAP earnings are less persistent for future operating earnings and cash flows relative to non-GAAP earnings calculated by applying various benchmark tax rates to exclusions. This evidence suggests that managers’ strategic behavior in selecting the tax rates applied to exclusions pollutes reported non-GAAP earnings and reduces their usefulness for predicting future performance. Overall, our results shed light on a specific channel through which firms use non-GAAP reporting to meet or beat earnings expectations.

This paper was accepted by Brian Bushee, accounting.

Funding: N. (X.) Chen appreciates financial support from the University of Houston. T. Shevlin acknowledges financial support from the Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California–Irvine. P.-C. Chiu acknowledges the financial support received from the Hong Kong Research Grant Council [Grant RGC14522716].

Supplemental Material: Data files and the online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4433 .
Promoting professionalism
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: June 2022

Sam Foster, Chief Nurse, Oxford University Hospitals, reflects on professional pride and discussions of what ‘professionalism’ in nursing and midwifery looks like—and how to enable it
Public information needs and attitudes regarding cancer and cancer patients in Oman: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Al Qadire Mohammad , Al Omari Omar , Alharrasi Maryam , Al Sabei Sulaiman , Aljezawi Ma'en , Khalaf Atika
Published: June 2022

Background:

Exploring public information needs and attitudes towards cancer patients might be the first step in developing an intervention that encourages public engagement in early detection and cancer prevention programmes.

Aim:

To explore Omani public information needs and attitudes towards cancer in Oman.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey design was used.

Findings:

Of the 569 participants, 369 (64.9%) were female; the mean age was 30.9 (SD=9.5) years. Of the participants, 94.4% wanted to be informed if they were found to have cancer in the future. The mean total attitudes score was 40.2 (SD=4.7) out of a maximum 48. Further, being employed, preferring to be informed about cancer diagnosis and having positive attitudes towards cancer and cancer patients predicted higher information needs.

Conclusions:

The current paternalistic approach seems to be no longer appropriate for cancer patients in Oman, and more active patient involvement in decision-making is needed.
A time for change
Authors: Glass Jonathan
Published: June 2022

Our editor explores the cost of mandatory training in the NHS and how this affects surgeons.
Assisted dying
Authors: Lavy C , Yassin N
Published: June 2022

Changing the law on assisted dying may result in more preventable deaths. Chris Lavy and Nuha Yassin look at the arguments against AD.
Teacher Trainees' Experiences of the Components of ICT Competencies and Key Factors in ICT Competence Development in Work-Based Vocational Teacher Training in Finland
Authors: Vilppola Jiri , Lämsä Joni , Vähäsantanen Katja , Hämäläinen Raija
Published: June 2022

Context: This research was conducted in the context of Finnish vocational education and training (VET) teacher training. The teacher training was work-based, meaning that each teacher trainee was already working as an unqualified VET teacher. Workplaces were comprehensively utilised as the learning environment, with teacher training support also being provided in the form of contact days, webinars, and online learning activities. Approach: We aimed to explore the main components of information and communications technology (ICT) competencies among vocational teacher trainees within work-based training and also to reveal the supportive and challenging factors related to developing ICT competencies within the training. Overall, 44 vocational teacher trainees participated in our study. The data were analysed via qualitative content analysis. Findings: Six main ICT competence components were identified during the work-based training: (1) The use and creation of digital learning materials, (2) the planning and use of digital learning environments, (3) synchronous digitally enhanced teaching, (4) general ICT competencies, (5) digital interaction, and (6) digital assessment. The development of teachers' ICT competencies was supported by their own active use of ICT and by experimenting with the ICT software and ideas presented by the teacher training staff. Challenging factors in ICT development included the continuous feeling of haste and the lack of time in the workplace, as well as the failure to recognise prior ICT competencies within the teacher training. This could limit the development of ICT competencies.Conclusions: Work-based VET teacher training has the potential to develop teacher trainees' ICT competencies because it allows immediate implementation and experimentation with regard to new ICT ideas and tools. By aligning this research with prior research, it is possible to construct a comprehensive ICT competence framework to support VET teacher training and workplace development.
Oro-facial mucocutaneous manifestations of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19): A systematic review
Authors: Fakhruddin Kausar Sadia , Samaranayake Lakshman Perera , Buranawat Borvornwut , Ngo Hien
Published: June 2022

We reviewed the prevalence, the likely aetiopathogenesis, and the management of oro-facial mucocutaneous manifestations of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19), caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus -2 (SARS-CoV-2). English language manuscripts searched using standard databases yielded 26 articles that met the inclusion criteria. In total, 169 cases (75 females; 94 males) from 15 countries with a spectrum of COVID-19 severities were reviewed. Gustatory perturbations were prevalent in over 70%. Mucocutaneous manifestations were reported predominantly on the tongue, palate, buccal mucosa, gingivae, and lips and included ulcers, blisters, erosions, papillary hyperplasia, macules, glossitis, and mucositis. Ulcerative lesions, present in over 50 percent, were the most common oral manifestation. Lesions resembling candidal infections, with burning mouth, were prevalent in 19%. Petechiae and angina bullosa were generally seen, subsequent to COVID-19 therapies, in 11%. Ulcerated, necrotic gingivae were documented in severely ill with poor oral hygiene. These manifestations, present across the COVID-19 disease spectrum, were commonly associated with the immunosuppressed state and/ or the concurrent antimicrobial/steroidal therapies. In summary, a wide variety of orofacial mucocutaneous lesions manifest in COVID-19. They are likely to be secondary to the disease-associated immune impairment and/or pharmaco-therapy rather than a direct result of SARS-CoV-2 infectionper se.