bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An updated analysis on the association of GSTM1 polymorphism and smoking exposure with the increased risk of coronary heart disease
Authors: Liu Min , Gu Ye , Ma Jian-Ning , Bao Ke-Na , Ao Li , Ni Xin
Published: September 2022

Objective

To undertake a meta-analysis to investigate if there is an association between the glutathione S-transferase mu 1 ( GSTM1) gene polymorphism, coronary artery disease (CAD) susceptibility and smoking.

Methods

Electronic databases, including PubMed®, Web of Science and Embase®, were searched for relevant case–control studies. Data were extracted and the odds ratio (OR) was calculated and appropriate statistical methods were used for the meta-analysis.

Results

The analysis included eight studies with a total of 1880 cases with CAD and 1758 control subjects. The results of this meta-analysis demonstrated that there is no association between the GSTM1 null and CAD (OR 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00, 1.55). An increased risk of CAD was observed in the smoking population with the GSTM1 null genotype (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.02, 2.15). Subgroup analyses of geographical region, genotyping method and publication language category demonstrated potential relationships among gene polymorphism, smoking and CAD.

Conclusions

Based on the current literature, the GSTM1 null genotype was associated to CAD in the smoking population. The interaction between smoking and GSTM1 polymorphism may contribute to the susceptibility of CAD.
“It’s Not Like Chasing Chanel:” Spending Time, Investing in the Self, and Pandemic Epiphanies
Authors: Ravenelle Alexandrea J. , Kowalski Ken Cai
Published: September 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the labor market and given rise to the Great Resignation. Drawing on a mixed methods panel study of 199 precarious and gig-based workers, we analyze how a changing conception of free time during the Covid-19 pandemic led low-wage service workers to seek more fulfilling careers. Whereas most workers initially perceived free time in terms of opportunity costs, they later reconceived this time as enabling an investment in personal growth, moving from “spending time” making money to “investing time” in themselves. This shift in temporal experience is expressed through the adoption of a “work passion” logic and “pandemic epiphanies” that motivated respondents to seek self-affirming and potentially more lucrative work opportunities.
A Cultural-Historical Analysis of Marsick and Watkins’ Informal and Incidental Learning Model
Authors: Barefield Trisha , Nicolaides Aliki
Published: September 2022

This paper uses Vygotsky's cultural-historical development theory to examine the theoretical lineages that influenced Marsick and Watkins’ (1990) model of informal and incidental learning. After discussing the context of each influence, the paper applies cultural-historical development theory to the many updates that Marsick, Watkins, and collaborators have contributed, moving the model into a theory. In 1990, Marsick and Watkins named the work of Dewey, Lindeman, Lewin, Knowles, Polanyi, and Argyris and Schön as primary influences for the formation of their informal and incidental learning model. By focusing on the context of each of the theorists who influenced the original Marsick and Watkins model and sketching the connections between the theorists' ideas and experiences, this paper fulfills the twofold purpose of exploring the context of Marsick and Watkins' model-turned-theory and providing a model for Vygotsky-informed literature reviews.
Impact on Blood Product Utilization with Thromboelastography Guided Resuscitation for Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Authors: Rizvi Ghazi , Marcinkowski Bridget , Srinivasa Nandan , Jett Alex , Benjenk Ivy , Davison Danielle , Yamane David
Published: September 2022

Background

Thromboelastography (TEG) can guide transfusion therapy in trauma and has been associated with decreased transfusion requirements. This population differs from the medical population where the most common bleeding source is gastrointestinal hemorrhage (GIB). The utility of TEG in patients with acute GIB is not well described. We sought to assess whether the use of TEG impacts blood product utilization in patients with medical GIB.

Methods

A retrospective study looking at all adult patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of GIB to the George Washington University Intensive Care Unit (ICU) between 01/01/2017 to 12/31/2019. The primary intervention was the use of TEG to guide blood product resuscitation in addition to standard of care (TEG arm) versus standard of care alone (non-TEG arm).

Results

The primary outcome was the total number of blood products utilized. Patients in the TEG arm used more blood products compared to the non-TEG arm (9.10 vs 3.60, p < 0.001). There was no difference in secondary endpoints except for an increased requirement for mechanical ventilation within the TEG arm (26.2% vs 13.4%, p  =  0.018).

Conclusions

The use of TEG to guide resuscitation in patients with acute GIB may be associated with increased blood product utilization without any clinical benefit to patient-centered outcomes.
A hybrid chaotic controller integrating hip stiffness modulation and reinforcement learning-based torque control to stabilize passive dynamic walking
Authors: Wu Yao , Qiao Shuo , Yao Daojin
Published: September 2022

Implementation of bipedal stable walking has attracted a lot of interest. Passive dynamic walking (PDW) is one promising manner to generate natural bipedal walking with high energy efficiency. However, how to improve stability and versatility of PDW-based robot against disturbance and time varying environments is still a big challenge in robotics. Chaos and bifurcations are intrinsic features of biped dynamic walking, which are important reasons for the failure of PDW. Thus a hybrid chaotic controller to stabilize chaos and bifurcations of PDW was proposed in this paper. At first, the dynamics model of compliant biped robot was set up, and routine to bipedal chaotic motions was found through parameter study. Then one hybrid chaotic controller integrating hip stiffness modulation and hip impulse torque control was developed, where hip impulse torque control based on reinforcement learning was trained to get state variables close to fixed point of PDW, and then hip stiffness modulation was conducted based on Ott-Grebogi-Yorke method to stabilize unstable motions of fixed point. Simulation results showed that period-1 stable walking could be gained for biped robots from chaotic motions, against original value disturbance, force disturbance and in time varying environments. The proposed hybrid chaotic controller could be used to stabilize bipedal chaotic motions and make the passivity-based robot become robust and versatile to disturbed and time changing environments.
Structural damage detection of adaptive tangent-based unsaturated bistable stochastic resonance
Authors: Wang Haijie , Xuan Fu-Zhen
Published: September 2022

The output saturation of classical bistable stochastic resonance (CBSR) limits its ability to enhance weak signal characteristics. To solve this problem, an adaptive tangent-based unsaturated bistable stochastic resonance (TUBSR) method is proposed. We construct a tangent-based piecewise unsaturated bistable potential model, and select the optimal system parameters with genetic algorithm (GA) to adaptively adjust the structure of potential model, so as to improve the output saturation and obtain a larger output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The simulated signals are used to verify that the TUBSR method can effectively improve the detection ability of weak signals. Finally, the method is applied to the damage detection of bearing inner race and the crack detection of curved plate. The results demonstrate that compared with CBSR and other improved bistable SR method, the TUBSR method has better detection ability for weak signals.
Study on erosion-wear characteristics of bidirectional metal seal floating ball valve in liquid-solid two-phase flow environment
Authors: Ou Guofu , Luo Minghao , Gu Youjie , Jin Haozhe
Published: September 2022

In the residual ebullated-bed hydrocracking process, the transportation mediums of catalyst addition/withdrawal drum are heavy distillate oil and catalysts. The bidirectional metal seal floating ball valve used in the outlet pipeline of this drum occurs internal leakage after a period of operation. Aiming at this phenomenon, the computational fluid dynamics and discrete phase model (CFD-DPM) is employed to calculate the erosion-wear of the valve in liquid-solid two-phase flow, and study the erosion-wear characteristics of the ball valve during the closing process. In order to better explain the influence of different openings of the ball valve for the erosion-wear characteristics, the relationship between the erosion-wear rate and the resistance coefficient is established. The results show that the erosion-wear of the valve is more serious when it has a greater resistance coefficient under the condition of constant inlet velocity. When the valve is closed from 60% to 20% relative opening, the erosion-wear rate increases slowly with the change of opening. When the valve is closed from 20% to 10% relative opening, the erosion-wear rate increases sharply with the change of opening. In order to reduce the erosion-wear rate of the valve, different structural optimization schemes are proposed to reduce the resistance coefficient of the valve at a small opening. These schemes include changing the flow channel in the valve ball from a circular cross section to a polygonal cross section and changing the seat structure to change the flow direction of the fluid entering the ball. The results show that the scheme of changing the flow direction of the fluid entering the valve ball by changing the valve seat structure works best, and the erosion-wear rate is reduced by 79.7%.
Multi-stage trajectory planning of dual-pulse missiles considering range safety based on sequential convex programming and artificial neural network
Authors: Liu Chaoyue , Zhang Cheng , Xiong Fenfen , Wang Jin
Published: September 2022

An algorithm based on sequential convex programming and artificial neural networks is proposed to solve the multi-stage trajectory planning problem of dual-pulse missiles considering range safety. Besides nonlinear dynamics and constraints, the dual-pulse missile introduces many discrete optimization variables (such as the ignition time of the second-stage thrust), and the algorithm needs to consider throwing the engine off to a safe location to ensure range safety, which makes trajectory planning for the dual-pulse missile more difficult to solve. In this study, the whole trajectory is first divided into four stages according to the working characteristics of the dual-pulse engine. Second, three new control variables are introduced to realize nonlinear dynamics convexification, and the relaxation technique is used to relax the constraints between the control variables to avoid non-convexity. Then, a range prediction function is designed to predict the landing location of the engine in real time. To improve the real-time prediction speed, an artificial neural network is further used to fit the range prediction function. Finally, an algorithm combining sequential convex optimization and an artificial neural network is proposed to solve the multi-stage trajectory planning problem of dual-pulse missiles accurately and rapidly. By comparing with pseudospectral method, two trajectory planning cases are solved by simulation, and the effectiveness and rapidity of the proposed method are verified.
Secondary syphilis with extra-genital condyloma lata: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Barei Francesca , Murgia Giulia , Ramoni Stefano , Cusini Marco , Marzano Angelo V
Published: September 2022

Background

Syphilis is known as the “great imitator” because of its polymorphic clinical manifestations. Condyloma lata are an uncommon mucocutaneous manifestation of secondary syphilis, generally localized in intertriginous areas, such as the genitals and anus. Extragenital localization of condyloma lata is considered unusual.

Methods

A case study of extra-genital condylomata is presented. To contextualise the case, a literature review of extra-genital condylomata lata was subsequently undertaken. The authors searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus and Excerpta Medica/EMBASE English-language sources using the following keywords: “condyloma lata”, “condylomata lata”, and “condyloma latum”.

Results

Thirty-five papers (from 1940 to 2021) describing an extra-anogenital localization of condyloma lata were found and are summarized in Table 1. Patients were mainly males (82.1%), with a mean age of 31.9 years. Most of them showed other manifestations of secondary syphilis (53.9%). In a minority of cases (39.0%), concomitant anogenital condyloma lata were present, thus making the diagnosis easier. The toe web localization was the most documented (26.2%) followed by the oral cavity (23.8%).

Conclusion

In the presence of extra-genital condyloma lata, the differential diagnosis is not always clear, especially when no other muco-cutaneous lesions are observed. In the case of eroded or wet lesions involving any cutaneous fold, associated or not with other cutaneous manifestations, a sexual history should be obtained, and syphilis must be considered.
Kaposi Varicelliform Eruption With Contact Dermatitis in a Person Living with AIDS
Authors: Yuan Liu Feng , Zhao Tian Wei , Ran Li Wei , Yang Kun , Wu Yan , Lun Wen Hui
Published: September 2022

Kaposi varicelliform eruption (KVE) is a cutaneous dissemination of a viral infection, which is mostly caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) in the setting of certain underlying skin diseases. KVE occurs mainly in infants and children, but very rarely in adults. Here, we report a case of KVE with contact dermatitis in a 36-year-old man with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), who was referred to our deparment with pruritic well-defined facial erythema and multiple vesicular lesions. A punch biopsy and immunohistochemical examination established the diagnosis of KVE with contact dermatitis. After treatment with valacyclovir and antihistamines, facial lesions achieved complete remission. With this case report, KVE has specific manifestation in clinic, histopathology and immunohistochemistry, which could guide the early diagnosis and improve prognosis.
Relict canals of the Tehuacán Valley, Mexico: A Middle- to Late-Holocene dryland socio-hydrological system
Authors: Neely James A , Aiuvalasit Michael J , Winsborough Barbara M
Published: September 2022

The travertine-lined irrigation canal networks of the Tehuacán Valley, Mexico allowed pre-Hispanic indigenous communities to overcome risks of crop failures in an arid setting. Segments of these systems are still in use today, therefore understanding when and how these irrigation networks functioned allows us to identify which attributes of a coupled socio-hydrological system are important for maintaining the long-term resilience of irrigation systems in drylands. This paper summarizes the results of an interdisciplinary study of this prehispanic irrigation network involving mapping, radiometric dating, and diatom analyses of materials extracted from the travertine lined canals. All of the canal networks were functioning by ca. 2000 BC, at the transition from the Late Archaic to the Formative period, which is before archeological evidence for widespread community-level aggregation. Provocatively, some canals are potentially as old as 6000–4000 BC, which would mean that hunter-gatherers initiated irrigation coevally with the introduction of semi-domesticated maize, a tropical species which would require supplemental water in this arid context. The canals both facilitated agricultural intensification and enhanced the distribution of aquatic ecosystems. The resilience of these systems to their unique spring dependent context demanded frequent maintenance and the integration of multiple canal networks to mitigate geohydrological vulnerabilities of reduced discharge. These conditions set up a long-term reciprocal dynamic between people and water in the Tehuacán Valley. The results demonstrate that rigidities inherent to tightly coupled socio-hydrological systems in dryland settings were overcome by institutional arrangements first developed by indigenous communities deep in prehistory.
Living with risk in drylands: Archaeological perspectives
Authors: Barker Graeme
Published: September 2022

This paper reflects on the themes illustrated in the 11 case studies on the archaeology of drylands. The papers emphasise the diversity of dryland forms, and of the landscapes within them, the implications of this diversity for the societies living in them, and the need to integrate palaeoenvironmental and archaeological approaches in their study. These studies recognise that how past dryland societies recognised risks and opportunities in drylands, including at times of ecological change (whether climatic and/or anthropogenic) may have been very different from our own notions of post-Enlightenment rationality. They provide examples of very different responses to aridification including: abandoning places and lifeways; specialising in alternative rhythms of life and resources; diversifying and broadening the subsistence base to spread risk; and applying new technological and social solutions to make drylands easier to live in. Whilst emphasising the challenges in both theoretical frameworks and methodologies if we are to better understand the interplay between ecological and social drivers of dryland histories, importantly they demonstrates the capacity of dryland peoples to take both wise and foolish decisions in relation to their own survival and to the sustainability of the natural resource, often with implications for their neighbours. These are lessons that resonate with the pressures on drylands and dryland peoples today.
The Influence of Enterprise Resource Planning System Implementation on Accrual-Based Earnings Management: Empirical Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Toumeh Ahmad A.
Published: September 2022

This research provides evidence on whether enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation affects accrual-based earnings management (AEM) in the service and manufacturing firms listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE). The Huber–White’s sandwich estimator for pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was utilized for this investigation as the primary statistical technique. Using three different AEM models and a sample of 390 firm-year observations for the period spanning from 2015 to 2019, this study reveals a significant and negative nexus between ERP implementation and AEM. The findings show that ERP adopting firms are less likely to engage in AEM practices than ERP non-adopting firms. In terms of contribution, the present research is considered among the first to investigate the impact of ERP system adoption on earnings management (EM) in Jordan.
Measuring Differentiation of Self to Evaluate Subjective Well-Being in Women Who are Childfree by Choice
Authors: Shenaar-Golan Vered , Lans Omer
Published: September 2022

Despite social expectations of parenthood, the proportion of people in the Western world who wish to have children is declining, and the proportion who do not want children is growing. We explored the effect of being “childfree by choice” on women's subjective well-being (SWB) by examining their level of differentiation of self, based on Bowen's family system theory. Fifty-one voluntarily child-free women and 62 mothers (control group) completed a demographic information questionnaire, the Personal Wellbeing Index – Adult (PWI-A), and the Differentiation of Self-Inventory – Revised (DSI-R). No differences were found between child-free women and mothers for four components of differentiation of self and life satisfaction and well-being. Women who chose to remain childfree for internal reasons expressed higher levels of satisfaction with life and SWB, and lower levels of emotional reactivity than those who remained childfree for external reasons. Self-differentiation (I-position) and emotional disengagement (emotional cutoff) significantly contributed to child-free women's well-being. Our results show the importance of emphasizing self-differentiation and emotional disengagement in the context of personal and marital therapy sessions and in therapeutic work with young women facing major life decisions on motherhood/voluntary childlessness.
How Does Having a Child with Cerebral Palsy Affect Women’s Physical, Psychological, and Social?
Authors: Turkmen Ayse Sonay , Yilmaz Halim , Yilmaz Sema Dereli
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To determine physical, psychological, and social challenges experienced by mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Methods: The study has a qualitative design and purposeful sampling consisting of 19 women. Researchers collected data through a semi-structured questionnaire via in-depth interviews. Results: Children had CP due to such reasons as problems occurring during childbirth, after birth, and maternal misconduct. While the physical effects led by children with CP were fatigue, waist/upper extremity pain, and insomnia, respectively, a single psychological effect was detected: sadness. It was found that women’s participation in social activities changed with children’s age, and social influences increased, as children’s age levels advanced. Physical and psychological effects were also detected to increase or change the dimensions of social effects, as age levels progressed. Conclusion: Mothers having children with CP experience physical, psychological, and social problems, and do not receive the expected support.
The Dog as a Second Species for Toxicology Testing Provides Value to Drug Development
Authors: Bower Nancy , Achanzar William E. , Boulifard Virginie , Brinck Peter R. , Kittel Birgit , Vahle John L.
Published: September 2022

The objective of the pharmaceutical industry is to develop new drugs that are safe for human use. In many cases, the accepted approach codified in guidance from regulatory authorities to assess the nonclinical safety profile of potential pharmaceuticals is to perform toxicity testing in two species. However, the use of a second species to establish the safety of new pharmaceuticals has been the subject of much scrutiny in recent years and the industry has been repeatedly challenged to reduce, refine, or replace some or all of the animals used to establish the safety of these pharmaceutical candidates. Specifically, the value of the dog in this testing paradigm has been questioned. Publications reviewing available data for marketed drugs suggest that for many drugs, the dog does not identify unique toxicities critical to human safety. The weakness of this approach, however, is that many of the cases where the dog (or any other species) has the greatest impact on drug development are cases for which development decisions based on safety concerns are not shared publicly. The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) Preclinical Development Expert Group (PDEG) decided to share case studies collected from its membership and the literature to illustrate the value of the dog in drug development decision-making and clinical monitoring practices to protect the safety of trial subjects.
Latrine Utilization and Associated Factors in Transformed District, West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Degu Abrham , Girma Meskerem , Melese Amsalu Birara
Published: September 2022

Background:

Ethiopia has been encountering a higher predominance of communicable illnesses, which bring about high morbidity, mortality, and hospital admission rates. One of the higher contributing factors to this can be the lower level of latrine utilization.

Objective:

To assess latrine utilization and associated factors in transforming District, West Gojjam zone, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2021 among 352 households in the Dega Damot District, one of the transformed districts in the West Gojjam Zone. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study household. The data were collected through a face-to-face interview and right-away observation methods using structured questionnaires and an observational checklist respectively. Data were entered using Epi info version 7 and exported to a statistical package for social science’s version 25. Independent variables that had a P-value of <.25 were included in the multivariable binary logistic regression model. Variables with P-values of less than .05 were declared as statistically significant and an odds ratio of 95% CI was used to measure the strength of association between outcome and predictor variables.

Results:

We found that the prevalence of latrine utilization among households was 48.9% (95% CI: 44, 54). The household head has good knowledge of latrine utilization (AOR = 2.96, 95% CI 1.79, 4.87), a mother has formal education (AOR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.13, 3.04), daily cleaning of the latrine (AOR = 1.99, 95% CI 1.06, 3.74), and latrine having squat hole cover (AOR = 8.08, 95% CI 3.13, 20.87) were factors significantly associated with latrine utilization.

Conclusion:

In the transformed district latrine utilization was low Knowledge, education status, latrine cleaning frequency, and squat hole cover were factors associated with latrine utilization. Market-based sanitation, health extension program, and behavioral change communication strategies need to be strengthened to improve sustainable and consistent use of latrines.
The influence of study abroad experience on the destination loyalty of international students: Mediating effects of emotional solidarity and destination image
Authors: Yang Fan , Song Yao , Yang Yongle , Wang Ruixuan , Xia Zhichen
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to explore the influence of study abroad experience on destination loyalty and discuss the mediating role of emotional solidarity and destination image in the context of higher edutourism. A questionnaire survey was conducted among international students studying in China and 335 valid questionnaires were selected. Results of the path analysis conducted revealed that the following: (1) The study abroad experience had a significant positive effect on the international students’ destination loyalty. (2) Both emotional solidarity and destination image played a mediating role between the study abroad experience and destination loyalty of international students. (3) Emotional solidarity had a significant positive effect on the destination image of international students. (4) Emotional solidarity and destination image played a chain-mediating role between the study abroad experience and destination loyalty of international students. The results of this study could help promote destination loyalty among international students by enhancing interactions between international students and local residents, and establishing a positive image of the study destination, which is beneficial to the development of local tourism and higher education at the theoretical and practical level.
The different impacts of COVID-19 on the mental health of distinct health care worker categories
Authors: Machado Arthur Viana , Gonçalves Raquel Menezes , Gama Camila Monteiro Fabricio , Vilete Liliane Maria Pereira , Berger William , Passos Roberta Benitez Freitas , Mendlowicz Mauro Vito , Souza Gabriela Guerra Leal , Pereira Mirtes Garcia , Mocaiber Izabela , de Oliveira Leticia
Published: September 2022

The present study sought to explore the factors associated with the odds of having probable depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to traumatic COVID-19 experiences and their impact on health care workers in distinct categories. In this cross-sectional study, 1843 health care workers (nurses, nurse technicians, physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare workers) were recruited via convenience sampling. A survey was administered to obtain information regarding sociodemographic, occupational, and mental health status. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used for the analyses. Being a nurse technician was associated with an odds ratio of 1.76 for probable PTSD. No relation was observed between health care worker categories and the odds of probable depression. Additionally, being female and not receiving adequate PPE were related to greater odds of having probable PTSD and depression.
The contribution of guessing from context and dictionary use to receptive and productive vocabulary knowledge: A structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Uchihara Takumi , Eguchi Masaki , Clenton Jon
Published: September 2022

This study investigated the relationships between two vocabulary learning strategies (guessing from context and dictionary use) and two aspects of vocabulary knowledge (receptive and productive vocabulary knowledge). One hundred and thirty-five university students in Japan completed a vocabulary learning strategies survey, the Updated Vocabulary Levels Test, the Productive Vocabulary Levels Test, and Lex30. Results showed that the dictionary strategy significantly predicted receptive vocabulary knowledge, whereas no significant relationship between the guessing strategy and receptive vocabulary knowledge was observed. Neither guessing nor dictionary use significantly predicted productive vocabulary knowledge. Mediation analyses showed that dictionary use, but not guessing, had a significant indirect effect on productive lexicons via the development of receptive vocabulary knowledge. However, the extent to which the dictionary strategy is associated with productive vocabulary knowledge depended on how the knowledge was measured. The advantage of dictionary consultation in light of the quality of attention and type of focus induced by the strategy were discussed, and implications for second language (L2) vocabulary instruction were considered.
Structural damage detection based on fundamental Bayesian two-stage model considering the modal parameters uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Feng-Liang , Gu Dong-Kai , Li Xiao , Ye Xiao-Wei , Peng Huayi
Published: September 2022

In structural health monitoring (SHM), damage detection is a final target to know the real status of the objective structure. Vibration-based damage detection is a commonly used method, since it makes full use of the dynamic characteristics. Improving the efficiency of this kind of methods has attracted increasing attentions. The existing uncertainty of identified modal parameters using measured data may significantly affect the detection accuracy. Furthermore, an optimization algorithm with a better convergence speed can improve the detection accuracy and reduce the computational time. This article presents the work to develop a novel damage detection method based on fundamental Bayesian two-stage model and sparse regularization. In this method, the most probable value of modal parameters and the associated posterior uncertainty are combined to investigate the effect of uncertainty on damage detection. The usage of the sparse regularization in the objective function can decrease the complexity of modeling and avoid the overfitting problem. A machine learning method combining intelligent swarm optimization algorithm with K-means clustering was used to carry out the optimization. Finally, a method combining three existing theory, that is, fundamental Bayesian two-stage model, sparse regularization, and I-Jaya algorithm, was developed. To investigate the efficiency of the proposed method, the traditional objective functions with and without the sparse regularization were also used for the comparison. The proposed method was verified by an ASCE benchmark example, and then it is applied into an experimental structure. The results show that due to the consideration of uncertainty, the objective function based on the fundamental Bayesian model and sparse regularization has a better performance.
Improving Sampling Probability Definitions with Predictive Algorithms
Authors: Jannetti Matthew , Carroll-Scott Amy , Gilliam Erikka , Headen Irene , Beverly Maggie , Lê-Scherban Félice
Published: September 2022

Place-based initiatives often use resident surveys to inform and evaluate interventions. Sampling based on well-defined sampling frames is important but challenging for initiatives that target subpopulations. Databases that enumerate total population counts can produce overinclusive sampling frames, resulting in costly outreach to ineligible participants. Quantifying eligibility before sampling using machine learning algorithms can improve efficiency and reduce costs. We developed a model to improve sampling for the West Philly Promise Neighborhood’s biennial population-representative survey of households with children within a geographic footprint. This study proposes a method to estimate probability of study eligibility by building a well-calibrated predictive model using existing administrative data sources. Six machine-learning models were evaluated; logistic regression provided the best balance of accuracy and understandable probabilities. This approach can be a blueprint for other population-based studies whose sampling frames cannot be well defined using traditional sources.
Antifatigue effect of naringin on improving antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial function and preventing muscle damage
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Xue Yonghong , Jia Gang , Zhao Hua , Liu Guangmang , Huang Zhiqing
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to explore effects of naringin (Nar) on antifatigue ability; the weight-loaded and non-loading swimming tests were performed. Compared with the control group, dietary supplementation of Nar significantly prolonged the weight-loaded swimming time to exhaustion of mice ( P < 0.01). Nar significantly reduced the serum lactic acid (LD) level ( P < 0.05) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity ( P < 0.001), while increased the serum non-esterified free fatty acids (NEFA) level ( P < 0.001). In addition, Nar significantly increased the liver glycogen and muscle glycogen contents ( P < 0.05) and the phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase ( PEPCK) ( P < 0.01) and glucokinase ( GCK) mRNA levels ( P < 0.001) in liver and gastrocnemius (GAS) muscle. Furthermore, Nar significantly improved the antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial function, and muscle mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation ( P < 0.05), and decreased inflammation and muscle damage–related gene expression ( P < 0.05). These findings suggested that Nar can improve antifatigue effect by enhancing antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial function and preventing muscle damage.
Rate of forgetting is independent from initial degree of learning across different age groups
Authors: Rivera-Lares Karim , Sala Sergio Della , Baddeley Alan , Logie Robert
Published: September 2022

It is well established that the more we learn, the more we remember. It is also known that our ability to acquire new information changes with age. An important remaining issue for debate is whether the rate of forgetting depends on initial degree of learning. In two experiments, following the procedure used by Slamecka and McElree (Exp 3), we investigated the relationship between initial degree of learning and rate of forgetting in both younger and older adults. A set of 36 (Exp 1) and a set of 30 (Exp 2) sentences was presented four times. Forgetting was measured via cued recall at three retention intervals (30 s, 1 hr, and 24 hr). A different third of the original sentences was tested at each delay. The results of both experiments showed that initial acquisition is influenced by age. However, the rate of forgetting proved to be independent from initial degree of learning. The conclusion is that rates of forgetting are independent from initial degree of learning.
Extensor hood injuries in elite boxers: injury characteristics, surgical technique and outcomes
Authors: Matharu Gulraj S. , Gatt Ian T. , Delaney Rachel , Loosemore Michael , Hayton Michael J.
Published: September 2022

We describe our experience of managing extensor hood injuries in boxers (57 fingers). The diagnosis was mostly clinical, with imaging only if the diagnosis was equivocal. The middle (61%) and index (26%) digits were most frequently injured. On exploration, 26% had no hood tear, however all required tenolysis from the adherent capsule. Of 42 hood tears, 15 were central splits between adjacent extensor tendons in the index or little fingers,15 tears were on the ulna side of the extensor tendon and 12 tears were on the radial side. A pseudobursa was encountered in 35%, capsular tears in 28% and chondral injury in one patient. Longitudinal curved metacarpophalangeal joint incisions were used, with hood repair performed in flexion using a locked running suture. Mean postoperative metacarpophalangeal joint flexion was 90°. Ninety-eight per cent returned to the same level of boxing at a mean of 8 months (range 1–24) from surgery. One finger was revised for re-rupture 6 months later. A reproducible technique for treating these injuries is described, with patients able to return to boxing with little risk of complications.

Level of evidence: IV
Anomalous systemic arterial supply to the basal segment of the lung presenting with haemoptysis in the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Hawke Kate , Joshi Kaustuv , Lau Hervey , Halder Arani , Duncan Petrina , Wolski Penny
Published: September 2022

Anomalous systemic arterial supply to the basal segment of the lung (ABLL) is a rare cause of haemoptysis. ABLL may be complicated by massive haemoptysis, heart failure due to left-to-right shunt and infection. We describe a case of this condition presenting in the third trimester of pregnancy. Computed tomography chest angiogram confirmed the diagnosis. A multidisciplinary approach was necessary to determine treatment, which ultimately consisted of elective caesarean section at 36 weeks and 4 days’ gestation, followed by transarterial embolisation 9 days postpartum.
Advancement of door-to-needle times in acute stroke treatment after repetitive process analysis: never give up!
Authors: Ernst Johanna , Storch Kai F. , Tran Anh Thu , Gabriel Maria M. , Leotescu Andrei , Boeck Anna-Lena , Huber Meret K. , Abu-Fares Omar , Bronzlik Paul , Götz Friedrich , Worthmann Hans , Schuppner Ramona , Grosse Gerrit M. , Weissenborn Karin
Published: September 2022

Background:

In acute ischemic stroke, timely treatment is of utmost relevance. Identification of delaying factors and knowledge about challenges concerning hospital structures are crucial for continuous improvement of process times in stroke care.

Objective:

In this study, we report on our experience in optimizing the door-to-needle time (DNT) at our tertiary care center by continuous quality improvement.

Methods:

Five hundred forty patients with acute ischemic stroke receiving intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) at Hannover Medical School were consecutively analyzed in two phases. In study phase I, including 292 patients, process times and delaying factors were collected prospectively from May 2015 until September 2017. In study phase II, process times of 248 patients were obtained from January 2019 until February 2021. In each study phase, a new clinical standard operation procedure (SOP) was implemented, considering previously identified delaying factors. Pre- and post-SOP treatment times and delaying factors were analyzed to evaluate the new protocols.

Results:

In study phase I, SOP I reduced the median DNT by 15 min. The probability to receive treatment within 30 min after admission increased by factor 5.35 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.46–11.66]. Further development of the SOP with implementation of a mobile thrombolysis kit led to a further decrease of DNT by 5 min in median in study phase II. The median DNT was 29 (25th–75th percentiles: 18–44) min, and the probability to undergo IVT within 15 min after admission increased by factor 4.2 (95% CI: 1.63–10.83) compared with study phase I.

Conclusion:

Continuous process analysis and subsequent development of targeted workflow adjustments led to a substantial improvement of DNT. These results illustrate that with appropriate vigilance, there is constantly an opportunity for improvement in stroke care.
Nosocomial COVID-19, a risk illustrated by the first in-hospital transmission of B.1.1.7 variant of SARS-CoV-2 in a French University Hospital
Authors: Legeay Clément , Lefeuvre Caroline
Published: September 2022

Objectives

In this short report, we describe the first nosocomial spread of B.1.1.7 variant (GR/20I/501Y.V1) in a French hospital, underlining the different aspects of in-hospital transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

Patients and methods

Retrospective study of a SARS-CoV-2 cluster investigation in January 2021. All cases were screened with RT-PCR.

Results

First transmission occurred in a double room with a COVID-19 imported cases, undetected upon admission. Healthcare workers, their relatives and patients’ relatives were screened. Eleven secondary cases were identified within a week, in and out of the hospital (in hospital attack rate: 3.1%). No severe COVID-19 was encountered.

Conclusions

This report highlights several in-hospital chains of transmission involved with COVID-19 with rapid spread.
Aspergillus in COVID-19 intensive care unit; what is lurking above your head?
Authors: Dailly Sue , Boatswain Erin , Brooks Julie , Campbell Glen , Dallow Katy , Dushianthan Ahilanandan , Glover Sarah , Griffiths Melanie , Gupta Sanjay , Austin James , Chambers Robert , Jeremiah Sarah , Morris Charlotte , Mahobia Nitin , Poxon Martyn , Rickman Alison , Jaques Helen , Yam Tatshing , Saeed Kordo
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Through routine respiratory samples surveillance among COVID-19 patients in the intensive care, three patients with aspergillus were identified in a newly opened general intensive care unit during the second wave of the pandemic.

Methodology

As no previous cases of aspergillus had occurred since the unit had opened. An urgent multidisciplinary outbreak meeting was held. The possible sources of aspergillus infection were explored. The multidisciplinary approach enabled stakeholders from different skills to discuss possible sources and management strategies. Environmental precipitants like air handling units were considered and the overall clinical practice was reviewed. Settle plates were placed around the unit to identify the source. Reports of recent water leaks were also investigated.

Results

Growth of aspergillus on a settle plate was identified the potential source above a nurse’s station. This was the site of a historic water leak from the ceiling above, that resolved promptly and was not investigated further. Subsequent investigation above the ceiling tiles found pooling of water and mould due to a slow water leak from a pipe.

Conclusion

Water leaks in patient areas should be promptly notified to infection prevention. Detailed investigation to ascertain the actual cause of the leak and ensure any remedial work could be carried out swiftly. Outbreak meetings that include diverse people with various expertises (clinical and non-clinical) can enable prompt identification and resolution of contaminated areas to minimise risk to patients and staff. During challenging pandemic periods hospitals must not lose focus on other clusters and outbreaks occurring simultaneously.
Designing an optimal infection prevention service: Part 2
Authors: Robinson Jude , Price Lesley , Otter Jon , Burnett Emma
Published: September 2022

Background

The importance of infection prevention and control (IPC) services to prevent threats from healthcare-associated infections and improve the quality of healthcare delivery is undeniable. However, IPC services across the UK and Ireland have substantial variability in terms of team structures and delivery models.

Aim

The aim of this study was to define an optimal IPC service in different contexts and settings within the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Methods

This mixed methods study adopted discussion huddles with IPC teams to explore various components of IPC programmes and services. A Nominal Group technique was then undertaken to achieve a group consensus of what an optimal infection prevention service should look like.

Results

Five discussion huddles were conducted which included 53 participants in total. Key themes arising were IPC Service Priorities, IPC Service Enablers for Success, and Necessary Skills and Expertise Required for Delivering an Effective IPC Service. For the nominal technique, 45 responses were identified which were determining the key priorities for an effective IPC service and 69 responses for establishing key enablers for success.

Discussion

These findings supported the development of a conceptual model for designing an optimal infection prevention service, which can be used to develop IPC services at an international, national, regional and local level. A focus is required around implementation of these highlighted enablers, so are effectively embedded into infection prevention and control services, and wider healthcare settings.
Management of iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsies after cross pinning of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures: A systematic review
Authors: Graff Christy , Dounas George Dennis , Sung Jonghoo , Kumawat Medhir , Huang Yue , Todd Maya
Published: September 2022

Purpose:

Up to 4% of patients who undergo cross pinning of a pediatric supracondylar humerus fracture sustain an iatrogenic ulnar nerve palsy (IUNP). This study aims to summarize the evidence regarding the management of IUNP in this setting, and to identify if early intervention (early wire removal or exploration) leads to faster and/or more complete recovery of the ulnar nerve.

Methods:

A formal systematic review was undertaken, with databases searched including Ovid Medline, Embase and Cochrane central. This was performed in accordance with JBI methodology and PRISMA guidelines.

Results:

In all, 26 articles were included in final evaluation, reporting a total of 179 IUNP. In all, 153 cases (85%) were managed expectantly, reporting full recovery at final follow-up (average 4.5 months) in 140 cases (91%). There were 26 cases of IUNP which were managed with early wire removal and/or exploration, of which 22 had full recovery (85%). There were 17 cases of 179 (9%) which did not have full recovery.

Conclusion:

The majority of IUNP are managed expectantly, with approximately 90% achieving full recovery at final follow-up. The literature does not support early wire removal and/or exploration, possibly because the damage to the nerve is done at the time of wire placement.
Thoracic endovascular aortic repair for chronic aortic dissection after total arch replacement for aberrant right subclavian artery: A case report
Authors: Nakamura Yasuhito , Kumada Yoshitaka , Mori Akihiro , Kawai Norikazu , Ishida Narihiro , Kasugai Toshio
Published: September 2022

An aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA) is an extremely rare congenital anomaly that forms during aortic arch development. Most reports of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) described an ARSA in the right aortic arch, but it is rare in the left aortic arch. We present the case of a 66-year-old man who underwent total arch replacement because of acute type A aortic dissection. An outpatient follow-up examination revealed that the aortic diameter enlargement exceeded 60 mm because of false lumen entry from the ARSA. Therefore, surgical intervention was planned. TEVAR, ARSA embolization, and bilateral axillary bypass surgery were successfully performed for a chronic dissecting aortic aneurysm for which the ARSA was the inflow route. He was discharged 12 days after surgery. Four years later, no enlargement of the aneurysm diameter was observed. TEVAR is a minimally invasive and useful treatment option for chronic type B dissections with an ARSA associated with the left aortic arch; however, patients with an ARSA have fragile blood vessels and require careful follow-up.