bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction to the Special Issue: Contemporary Irish Television
Authors: Free Marcus
Published: December 2020

This special issue examines aspects of Irish television at the current political, economic and cultural conjuncture in Ireland, and against the backdrop of two major crises since the 1990s: the first deriving from the Catholic Church’s institutional abuse scandals, which progressively weakened its power and influence; the second from the 2008 collapse of the Celtic Tiger economic boom, following which years of austerity have deepened social inequality. Focusing primarily on Ireland’s public service broadcaster RTÉ, the articles consider how national television in Ireland has represented and negotiated the resultant tensions and divides within Irish society. They examine the endurance and evolution of a daily Catholic ritual on national television; the weaknesses of a transnational drama in addressing the legacy of institutional abuse; varieties of progressive post-2015 Marriage Equality referendum “queer” television; “property television” and the current housing crisis; and intergenerationally themed reality television in the context of growing generational inequality.
Explaining Governors’ Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States
Authors: Baccini Leonardo , Brodeur Abel
Published: December 2020

What has been the response of U.S. governors to the COVID-19 pandemic? In this research note, we explore the determinants of implementing stay-at-home orders, focusing on governors’ characteristics in the early stage of the pandemic. In our most conservative estimate, being a Democratic governor increased the probability of implementing a stay-at-home order by more than 50%. Moreover, we found that the probability of implementing a statewide stay-at-home order was about 40% more likely for governors without term limits than governors with term limits. We also found that Democratic governors and governors without term limits were significantly faster to adopt statewide orders than Republican governors and governors with term limits. There is evidence of politics as usual in these unusual times.
Precision degradation prediction of inertial test turntable based on Hidden Markov Model and optimized particle filtering
Authors: Li Liming , Zhou Xunyi , Zhang Xingqi , Zhong Zhenghu
Published: December 2020

In order to solve the problem that there is no effective evaluation method for the precision degradation state of inertial test turntable, a prediction model for the position precision degradation trend of test turntable was proposed based on the Hidden Markov Model (HMM) algorithm and Particle Filter (PF) algorithm. The initial parameter of the PF algorithm was optimized by the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm. The vibration signal was selected as the research data, which could be obtained from an velocity test of turntable precision degradation. Firstly, the original vibration signal was denoised by Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and Principal Component Analysis (EEMD-PCA) algorithm, and the signal with fault characteristic was extracted for signal reconstruction; Secondly, a HMM model could be trained by using the statistical characteristic values as observation matrix, and the diagnosis of early position precision degradation and the health state indexes could be obtained. Finally, a prediction model of the test turntable precision degradation could be established by using PF algorithm, and the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of the test turntable precision could be calculated. When the 50th group data were taken as the prediction starting point, the predicted remaining useful life was 21 years, and the actual measured result was 17 years, which are close to each other. Comparing the model calculation results and the test measurement results, it is shown that the model could effectively and accurately predict the change trend and remaining useful life of the test turntable precision.
Investigation of the pedaling forces in a cycling field test using the non-linear measure ML1
Authors: Kunert Alexander , Koska Daniel , Maiwald Christian
Published: December 2020

The study of biomechanical and physiological variables allows human movement scientists to investigate the characteristics of movement patterns in cyclists. While straightforward and well-investigated, linear measures may not adequately capture the underlying complexity of movements during cycling. Therefore, a non-linear phase-space measure (ML1) was applied to forces and heart rates of nine cyclists in a field test. The test was repeated two times with different instructions on how to alter the bike’s gearing while cycling a 12.5 km long level track. Pedaling forces and heart rates were measured. Future aim of the underlying study is the investigation of innovative control algorithms for e-bike propulsions. Force-time curves were sequenced into single cycles, linearly interpolated in the time domain, and z-score normalized. ML1 was calculated in a flowing window algorithm of 50 cycles. With fixed gearing, a contrast analysis showed that changes in terrain inclination were strongly associated with changes in the non-linear measure ML1. The calculation of Spearman’s cross correlation showed high coefficients of correlation between ML1 and delayed heart rate. The results indicate systematic changes of the pedaling movement as an adaptive response to changes in terrain inclination. Future research may utilize the findings from this study to investigate possible relationships between subjective measures of exhaustion, comfort, and discomfort with biomechanical characteristics of the pedaling movement.
Reliability of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) tumor proportion score (TPS) on cytological smears in advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a prospective validation study
Authors: Ricci Costantino , Capizzi Elisa , Giunchi Francesca , Casolari Laura , Gelsomino Francesco , Rihawi Karim , Natali Filippo , Livi Vanina , Trisolini Rocco , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Ardizzoni Andrea
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immunohistochemistry (IHC) assessment is mandatory for the single agent pembrolizumab treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). PD-L1 testing has been validated and is currently certified only on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded materials but not on cytological smears. Unfortunately, a significant proportion of patients, having only cytological material available, cannot be tested for PD-L1 and treated with pembrolizumab. In this study, we aimed to validate PD-L1 IHC on cytological smears prospectively by comparing clone SP263 staining in 150 paired histological samples and cytological smears of NSCLC patients.

Methods:

We prospectively enrolled 150 consecutive advanced NSCLC patients. The clone SP263 was selected as, in a previous study of our group, it showed higher accuracy compared with clones 28-8 and 22-C3, with good cyto-histological agreement using a cut-off of 50%. For cyto-histological concordance, we calculated the kappa coefficient using two different cut-offs according to the percentage of PD-L1 positive neoplastic cells (<1%, 1–49% and ⩾50%; <50%, ⩾50%).

Results:

The overall agreement between histological samples and cytological smears was moderate (kappa = 0.537). However, when the cyto-histological concordance was calculated using the cut-off of 50%, the agreement was good (kappa = 0.740). With the same cut-off, and assuming as gold-standard the results on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded materials, PD-L1 evaluation on smears showed specificity and negative predictive values of 98.1% and 93.9%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Cytological smears can be used in routine clinical practice for PD-L1 assessment with a cut-off of 50%, expanding the potential pool of NSCLC patients as candidates for first-line single agent pembrolizumab therapy.
Hidden and uninterested populations: Methodological insights and unresolved issues from the study of Cannabis Social Clubs
Authors: Pardal Mafalda , Bone Melissa , Decorte Tom , Queirolo Rosario , Parés Òscar , Johansson Julia , Álvarez Eliana , Repetto Lorena
Published: December 2020

Cannabis Social Clubs are typically non-profit associations established by adult users of cannabis, which produce and distribute cannabis among their members. Such associations can be found in several European countries and beyond, but with exception of Uruguay, they are illegal or otherwise operate at the margins of domestic drug control legislation, at risk for law enforcement detection. We have conducted several individual and collaborative studies on Cannabis Social Clubs and their key actors (e.g. Cannabis Social Clubs leaders, users affiliated as members, cannabis growers, other stakeholders), primarily drawing on qualitative methods (e.g. ethnographic fieldwork, interviews, qualitative media analyses) but also employing a quantitative approach (e.g. online surveys). In this article, we reflect on the research experiences of the authors in studying Cannabis Social Clubs, providing insights for future research in this area and within criminology and socio-legal studies. In particular, we aim to examine our approaches with regard to the recruitment of participants and research design, identifying good practices, but also discussing what the less successful strategies were. We draw on research conducted since 2014 in different countries, with different legal frameworks, which provides an opportunity for a comparative and more in-depth critical consideration of what might be helpful ways of reaching and researching hard-to-reach populations.
RGD-modified injectable hydrogel maintains islet beta-cell survival and function
Authors: Lan Tianshu , Guo Jingyi , Bai Xiaoming , Huang Zengjiong , Wei Zhimin , Du Guicheng , Yan Guoliang , Weng Lebin , Yi Xue
Published: December 2020

Objective:

A potential solution for islet transplantation and drug discovery vis-à-vis treating diabetes is the production of functional islets in a three-dimensional extracellular matrix. Although several scaffold materials have been reported as viable candidates, a clinically applicable one that is injectable and can maintain long-term functionality and survival of islet pancreatic beta-cells (β-cells) is far from being established.

Results:

In the current study, we evaluated a ready-to-use and injectable hydrogel’s impact on β-cells’ function and viability, both in vitro and in vivo. We found that β-cells in high concentration with hydrogels functionalized via Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) demonstrated better viability and insulin secretory capacity in vitro. Moreover, it is a biocompatible hydrogel that can maintain β-cell proliferation and vascularization without stimulating inflammation after subcutaneous injection. Meanwhile, modifying the hydrogel with RGD can maintain β-cells’ secretion of insulin, regulating the blood glucose levels of mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes.

Conclusions:

Thus, these preliminary results indicate that this RGD-modified hydrogel is a potential extracellular matrix for islet transplantation at extrahepatic sites, and they also provide a reference for future tissue engineering study.
Gendering grief: The Strī Parvan of the Mahābhārata
Authors: Roy Kumkum
Published: December 2020

The article focuses on Śānti Parvan, a small section of the Mahābhārata, describing the scene after the cataclysmic war. It explores the convergences and divergences between masculine and feminine expressions of grief in response to bereavement, as described here. The former appears to be concerned with identities of the dead as kshatriyas and kings. The latter, on the other hand, focuses more centrally on the dead as kinsmen-related through both natal and marital ties, even as there are overlaps.
Collecting and analysing marriage and birth data: Women in pre-revolution Rheims, France
Authors: Fauve-Chamoux Antoinette
Published: December 2020

Based on her earlier work on the city of Rheims in Champagne, France—a Family Reconstitution study covering all social scales—the article proposes a new comprehensive classification of reconstructed female life courses from the author’s existing and refreshed nominative database (1668–1802). This fresh scrutiny of digital files will allow series of qualitative and quantitative approaches, making hopefully preindustrial urban women at last visible along their individual life-trajectory. Thanks to rich archival sources, socio-demographic trends are better known, including a general early shift to contraceptive behaviour in pre-1789 Rheims. At the end of the Ancien Régime, there was growing individual female labour migration to this major town of Western Europe. It was attracted by domestic service and the textile sector. The sex ratio became so unbalanced that many women remained single, and only a few widows remarried. Numerous women managed their living without a husband, through the many economic and sanitary crises which characterised the period.
Ecthyma gangrenosum due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis as initial manifestation of X-linked agammaglobulinemia: a case report
Authors: Huang Haixia , Bai Ke , Fu Yueqiang , Yan Jin , Li Jing
Published: December 2020

Background

X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA, OMIM#300,300), caused by mutations in the Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) gene, is a rare monogenic inheritable immunodeficiency disorder. Ecthyma gangrenosum is a cutaneous lesion caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa that typically occurs in patients with XLA and other immunodeficiencies.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 20-month-old boy who presented with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and ecthyma gangrenosum. Blood, stool, and skin lesion culture samples were positive for P. aeruginosa. A diagnosis of XLA was established, and the c.262G > T mutation in exon 4 of BTK was identified with Sanger sequencing. Symptoms improved following treatment with antibiotics and immunoglobulin infusion.

Conclusions

Primary immunodeficiency (i.e., XLA) should be suspected in male infants with P. aeruginosa sepsis, highlighting the importance of genetic and immune testing in these patients.
Association of traumatic events with levels of psychological distress and depressive symptoms in male asylum seekers and refugees resettled in Italy
Authors: Nosè Michela , Tarsitani Lorenzo , Tedeschi Federico , Lotito Claudia , Massetti Paola , Purgato Marianna , Roselli Valentina , Todini Liliana , Turrini Giulia , Barbui Corrado
Published: December 2020

Background

In recent years there has been a progressive rise in the number of asylum seekers and refugees displaced from their country of origin, with significant social, economic, public health and mental health implications. The aim of this study is to (1) describe the level of psychological distress and frequency of psychiatric disorders in a sample of male asylum seekers and refugees across different ethnic groups resettled in Italy; (2) establish whether the number of traumatic events experienced before, during and after the migration process is associated with level of psychological distress and depressive symptoms.

Methods

In two large Italian catchment areas, over a period of 1 year a consecutive series of male asylum seekers and refugees, aged 18 or above and included in the Italian protection system, were screened for psychological distress and psychiatric disorders using validated questionnaires.

Results

During the study period, 252 male asylum seekers or refugees were recruited. More than one-third of the participants (34.5%) showed clinically relevant psychological distress, and one-fourth (22.2%), met the criteria for a psychiatric diagnosis, mainly Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and depressive disorders. The number of traumatic events turned out to be a risk factor for both clinically relevant psychological distress and depressive disorders. Receiving good social support emerged as a protective factor, while migrants with unclear status were at higher risk of psychological distress than those holding or awaiting a permission.

Discussion

In an unselected sample of male asylum seekers and refugees, after around 1 year of resettlement in Italy, the frequency of psychological distress and psychiatric disorders was substantial and clinically relevant. The association between traumatic events, especially post-migration problems, and mental health conditions suggests the need of developing services to assist refugees and asylum seekers to address the multi-faceted problems they experience, such as social support in host country, legal problems concerning permit status and asylum procedure, and family reunification, as well as addressing trauma and mental health issues.
Development and validation of a 25-Gene Panel urine test for prostate cancer diagnosis and potential treatment follow-up
Authors: Johnson Heather , Guo Jinan , Zhang Xuhui , Zhang Heqiu , Simoulis Athanasios , Wu Alan H. B. , Xia Taolin , Li Fei , Tan Wanlong , Johnson Allan , Dizeyi Nishtman , Abrahamsson Per-Anders , Kenner Lukas , Feng Xiaoyan , Zou Chang , Xiao Kefeng , Persson Jenny L. , Chen Lingwu
Published: December 2020

Background

Heterogeneity of prostate cancer (PCa) contributes to inaccurate cancer screening and diagnosis, unnecessary biopsies, and overtreatment. We intended to develop non-invasive urine tests for accurate PCa diagnosis to avoid unnecessary biopsies.

Methods

Using a machine learning program, we identified a 25-Gene Panel classifier for distinguishing PCa and benign prostate. A non-invasive test using pre-biopsy urine samples collected without digital rectal examination (DRE) was used to measure gene expression of the panel using cDNA preamplification followed by real-time qRT-PCR. The 25-Gene Panel urine test was validated in independent multi-center retrospective and prospective studies. The diagnostic performance of the test was assessed against the pathological diagnosis from biopsy by discriminant analysis. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess its diagnostic improvement over PSA and risk factors. In addition, the 25-Gene Panel urine test was used to identify clinically significant PCa. Furthermore, the 25-Gene Panel urine test was assessed in a subset of patients to examine if cancer was detected after prostatectomy.

Results

The 25-Gene Panel urine test accurately detected cancer and benign prostate with AUC of 0.946 (95% CI 0.963–0.929) in the retrospective cohort (n = 614), AUC of 0.901 (0.929–0.873) in the prospective cohort (n = 396), and AUC of 0.936 (0.956–0.916) in the large combination cohort (n = 1010). It greatly improved diagnostic accuracy over PSA and risk factors (p < 0.0001). When it was combined with PSA, the AUC increased to 0.961 (0.980–0.942). Importantly, the 25-Gene Panel urine test was able to accurately identify clinically significant and insignificant PCa with AUC of 0.928 (95% CI 0.947–0.909) in the combination cohort (n = 727). In addition, it was able to show the absence of cancer after prostatectomy with high accuracy.

Conclusions

The 25-Gene Panel urine test is the first highly accurate and non-invasive liquid biopsy method without DRE for PCa diagnosis. In clinical practice, it may be used for identifying patients in need of biopsy for cancer diagnosis and patients with clinically significant cancer for immediate treatment, and potentially assisting cancer treatment follow-up.
Feasibility, safety, and resource utilisation of active mobilisation of patients on extracorporeal life support: a prospective observational study
Authors: Braune Stephan , Bojes Patrick , Mecklenburg Anne , Angriman Federico , Soeffker Gerold , Warnke Katja , Westermann Dirk , Blankenberg Stefan , Kubik Mathias , Reichenspurner Hermann , Kluge Stefan
Published: December 2020

Background

There is scarce evidence on the feasibility, safety and resource utilisation of active mobilisation in critically ill patients on extracorporeal life support (ECLS).

Methods

This prospective observational single-centre study included all consecutive critically ill patients on ECLS admitted to an academic centre in Germany over a time period of one year. The level of mobilisation was categorised according to the ICU Mobility Scale (IMS). Primary outcome was complications during mobilisation.

Results

During the study period, active mobilisation with an activity level on the IMS of ≥ 3 was performed at least on one occasion in 43 out of 115 patients (37.4%). A total of 332 mobilisations with IMS ≥ 3 were performed during 1242 ECLS days (26.7%). ECLS configurations applied were va-ECMO (n = 63), vv-ECMO (n = 26), vv-ECCO2R (n = 12), av-ECCO2R (n = 10), and RVAD (n = 4). Femoral cannulation had been in place in 108 patients (93.9%). The median duration of all mobilisation activities with IMS ≥ 3 was 130 min (IQR 44–215). All mobilisations were undertaken by a multi-professional ECLS team with a median number of 3 team members involved (IQR 3–4). Bleeding from cannulation site requiring transfusion and/or surgery occurred in 6.9% of actively mobilised patients and in 15.3% of non-mobilised patients. During one mobilisation episode, accidental femoral cannula displacement occurred with immediate and effective recannulation. Sedation was the major reason for non-mobilisation.

Conclusions

Active mobilisation (IMS ≥ 3) of ECLS patients undertaken by an experienced multi-professional team was feasible, and complications were infrequent and managed successfully. Larger prospective multicentre studies are needed to further evaluate early goal directed sedation and mobilisation bundles in patients on ECLS.
Central venous catheter-related bloodstream infection and colonization: the impact of insertion site and distribution of multidrug-resistant pathogens
Authors: Pitiriga Vassiliki , Kanellopoulos Petros , Bakalis Ioannis , Kampos Elsa , Sagris Ioannis , Saroglou George , Tsakris Athanasios
Published: December 2020

Background

Placement of central-venous catheters (CVCs) is an essential practice in the management of hospitalized patients, however, insertion at the commonly used sites has often the potential of inducing major complications. Neverthelss, the impact of specific site central line catheter insertion on catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) has not been clarified yet in the literature.

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare CLABSIs and catheter colonization rates among the three catheter insertion sites: subclavian (SC), internal jugular (IJ) and femoral (FEM) in hospitalized patients. Moreover, to analyze the distribution of pathogens and their antimicrobial resistance profiles at these three sites, concurrently.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of data collected prospectively from all catheterized patients at a tertiary care Greek hospital from May 2016 to May 2018. Data was collected on 1414 CVCs and 13,054 CVC-days.

Results

Τhe incidence of CLABSIs among the three sites was as follows: SC:5.1/1000 catheter/days, IJ: 3.73/1000 catheter/days and FEM: 6.93/1000 catheter/days (p = 0.37). The incidence of colonization was as follows: SC:13.39/1000 catheter/days; IJ:7.34/ 1000 catheter/days; FEM:22.91/1000 catheter/days (p = 0.009). MDROs predominated in both CLABSIs and tip colonizations (59.3 and 61%, respectively) with Acinetobacter baumanii being the predominant pathogen (16/59, 27.1% and 44/144, 30.5%, respectively). The incidence of CLABSIs due to multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) was as follows: SC:3.83/1000 catheter days; IJ:1.49/1000 catheter days; FEM:5.86/1000 catheter days (p = 0.04). The incidence of tip colonization by MDROs among the 3 sites was as follows: SC:8.93/1000 catheter/days; IJ:4.48/1000 catheter/days; FEM:12.79/1000 catheter/days (p = 0.06). There was no significant difference in the type of pathogen isolated among site groups for both CLABSIs and tip colonizations.

Conclusions

FEM site of catheter insertion was associated with a higher rate of bloodstream infection and catheters’ colonization compared to IJ and SC sites. Furthermore, this survey highlights the changing trend of the distribution of frequent pathogens and resistance patterns towards MDR Gram-negative pathogens, underscoring the need for consistent monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns of these specific infections.
The stable component of maternal depressive symptoms predicts offspring emotional and behavioral symptoms: a 9-years longitudinal study
Authors: Cerniglia L. , Dentale F. , Tambelli R. , Murray L. , Cooper P. , Cimino S.
Published: December 2020

Background

Maternal sub-threshold and non-clinical depression and its possible outcomes on offspring internalizing/externalizing symptoms has received growing attention in recent years because of its significant worldwide prevalence.

Methods

Through a Latent State-Trait Analysis approach (LST), this longitudinal study aimed to identify a stable component of non-clinical maternal depression across a temporal interval of 6 years (measured through the Symptom Check-List-90/R) and to determine the effect of this component on children’s emotional and behavioral functioning (measured through the Child Behaviour Check-List) at age 12 years.

Results

LST analysis showed that maternal depressive symptoms tended to remain stable within individuals across 6 years of observation strongly contributing to children’s internalizing/externalizing and dysregulation symptoms.

Conclusions

The current longitudinal analysis of maternal and child data revealed that a stable component of maternal depressive symptoms reliably predicted a wide range of child emotional and behavioral symptoms at 12 years of age.
Importance of microhabitat selection by birds for the early recruitment of endangered trees in a fragmented forest
Authors: Li Ning , Wang Zheng , Cai Yao , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2020

Background

Remnant microhabitats are important for bird habitat selection and plant regeneration in the fragmented habitat. However, empirical information on the consequences of how microhabitat use by birds affects the early recruitment of plants is lacking.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated whether microhabitat selection by the Black Bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus) (J. F. Gmelin, 1789) impacts the early recruitment of the endangered tree species, the Chinese Yew (Taxus chinensis(Pilger) Rehd), in a fragmented forest over a 4-year period (2011–2012, 2018–2019).

Results

Our results showed the main factors affectingH. leucocephalusmicrohabitat selection were distance to the nearestT. chinensismature tree, herb cover and density, leaf litter cover, and vegetation type. Moreover, the results of logistic regression also highlighted the importance of elevation, distance to light gap and roads, tree cover in bird microhabitat selection. Furthermore, the seed emergence rate in microhabitats used by birds did not differ from the natural forest, which was related to five factors of bird microhabitat. The Random Forest model showed that seedling emergence rate was increased with leaf litter cover and distance to fallen dead trees, but decreased in relation to herb cover, slope, and elevation.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the importance of remnant microhabitats in fragmented forests for sustaining forest ecology and optimal management. The contribution of microhabitats used by birds to plant recruitment provides insights into how frugivore species contribute to plant regeneration, which should be incorporated in future conservation and management practices of fragmented forests.
The associations of lens power with age, axial length and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Chinese adults aged 50 and above
Authors: Ye Luyao , He Jiangnan , Zhang Xinji , Xu Yi , Chen Qiuying , Yin Yao , Fan Ying , Lu Lina , Zhu Jianfeng , Zou Haidong , Xu Xun
Published: December 2020

Background

To investigate the associations of lens power with age, axial length (AL), and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in Chinese adults aged 50 and above.

Methods

Random clustering sampling was used to identify adults aged 50 years and above in urban regions of Shanghai. The participants underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination including subjective refraction, autorefraction, and IOL-Master. The crystalline lens power was calculated using Bennett’s formula.

Results

A total of 4177 adults were included. A linear decrease in lens power was observed both with age and with AL, followed by a stop of lens power loss after the age of 70 or when AL ≥ 25 mm, respectively. Participants with Type 2 DM presented higher lens power (0.43 diopter (D), p < 0.001) and thicker lens thickness (0.06 mm, p < 0.001). In multivariate regression models, there was a positive correlation between lens power and Type 2 DM when age < 75 years (p < 0.001) or AL < 25 mm (p < 0.001) after adjusting for other factors, while no significant association was found in participants aged ≥ 75 years (p = 0.122) or with AL ≥ 25 mm (p = 0.172).

Conclusions

The lens power in adults aged 50 and above exhibited two stages with age and with AL. Type 2 DM caused an increase in lens power, which was not seen in participants aged ≥ 75 years or with AL ≥ 25 mm.
A feasibility study on two tailored interventions to improve adherence in adults with haemophilia
Authors: Hoefnagels J. W. , Fischer K. , Bos R. A. T. , Driessens M. H. E. , Meijer S. L. A. , Schutgens R. E. G. , Schrijvers L. H.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Haemophilia is a congenital bleeding disorder mainly affecting males. To prevent bleeding, patients need to perform regular intravenous injections (prophylaxis) throughout life. Non-adherence often occurs. Problems with acceptance or self-management appear to be the main reasons for non-adherence in haemophilia. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and effects of two interventions focussed on acceptance (face-to-face) and self-management (online).

Methods

Patients with severe haemophilia and acceptance or self-management problems were eligible. The face-to-face group intervention was based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) (8 sessions/6 months, targetN= 8 participants). The online intervention was based on a successful online programme in rheumatoid arthritis (5–8 modules/2 months, targetN= 8). Both interventions were designed according to the MRC framework in collaboration with the patient society and experts. We compared adherence (VERITAS-Pro, optimum 0), quality of life (SF-36, optimum 100) and illness perception (BIPQ, optimum 0) before start (T0) and after 2 months (T2). Feasibility criteria were as follows: completion of training by > 50% of participants and ability to collect at least 80% of outcome parameters.

Results

The face-to-face intervention was feasible (89% enrolment and recruitment, 100% retention). One hundred percent of the outcome parameters was collected. Results were promising: although adherence (VERITAS-Pro) was stable (from 64 to 62 points), quality of life (SF-36) showed a clinically relevant improvement (> 5 points) in five of eight domains. Illness perception (BIPQ) showed a clinically relevant increase from 47 to 39 points. Patient evaluation was positive.

The online intervention, however, was infeasible: enrolment was only 20% (6/30). Only three patients signed informed consent (recruitment 10%), and none completed more than one module (retention 0%). Consequently, the online intervention was terminated.

Conclusion

The face-to-face acceptance intervention was considered feasible with promising results. Unfortunately, the online intervention was infeasible and therefore terminated. These findings suggest that adapting effective interventions to other settings does not guarantee success, despite the use of established methodology and patient participation. Population differences (only male participants, congenital disease) could be an explanation for failure of the online intervention in haemophilia despite success in rheumatoid arthritis.

Trial registration

NL55883.041.16
Evaluating the Tubridge™ flow diverter for large cavernous carotid artery aneurysms
Authors: Jia Luqiong , Wang Jiejun , Zhang Longhui , Zhang Yunfeng , You Wei , Yang Xinjian , Lv Ming
Published: December 2020

Background

The Tubridge™ flow diverter (TFD) was recently developed in China; however, its safety and efficacy in treating large cavernous carotid artery aneurysms (LCCAs) are unclear. Our objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the TFD in patients receiving TFDs to treat LCCAs (10–25 mm).

Methods

Between June 2013 and May 2014, seven patients with LCCAs were enrolled in our study, and all seven patients underwent TFD implantation combined with coils.

Results

Angiographic follow-up images were available for all seven patients at a median of 57.5 ± 16.7 (range, 6–69) months. Seven patients obtained favorable angiographic results defined as O’Kelly–Marotta Scale C and D. Clinical follow-up data were available for all seven patients at a median of 73.32 ± 3.6 (range, 66–78) months. No patients developed new neurological deficits. Six patients achieved a modified Rankin scale score of 0, and diplopia improved in the remaining patient.

Conclusions

The results were excellent for the aneurysms treated with TFDs in our patients with LCCAs. TFDs are feasible for the treatment of LCCAs, but a multicenter, controlled clinical trial is needed to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of the TFD to treat LCCAs.
Semi-automated analysis of dot blots using ImageJ/Fiji
Authors: Klemm Anna H.
Published: December 2020

Commercially available dot blots provide a set of specific antibodies spotted on membranes in a given pattern. If the target analyte is present in the solution that the membrane is incubated with, the detection reaction will result in a chemiluminescence signal which is recorded by film or scanner. In order to know which analytes were detected, the analysis consists of measuring the intensity of the recorded signal on each spot. Manually measuring the entire array (typically ~200 spots) is unreliable and tedious. Fully automatic registration of the blot membrane to the template pattern often fails since there might be only very few positive spots on the membrane. This article presents an ImageJ/Fiji macro that requires minimal user input to perform a robust iterative registration of an adjustable template mask representing the spot pattern to the recorded blot. Once the template mask is matched to the dot blot, the spot intensity of each dot is measured and reported in a results table.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE PERSONNEL STRUCTURE MEDICAL SPECIALTIES
Authors: Shahabov I. , Mel'nikov Yuriy , Smyshlyaev A.
Published: December 2020

The aim of the research is to analyze the indicators of the provision of medical personnel of various specialties in the Russian Federation and consider the number of doctors in foreign countries. The study used statistics from Rosstat in the health sector. The calculation of the specific gravity for various medical specialties was made. The main research method was trend analysis and descriptive statistics. The indicator of provision with doctors of all specialties per 10,000 population in the study period had a downward trend (–4.3%). The largest decrease occurred among pediatricians (–36.0%). A smaller decrease occurred among obstetricians-gynecologists (–1.7%), psychiatrists and psychiatrists-narcologists (–11.7%), phthisiatricians (–16.6%). An increase in the indicator was registered among physicians of a therapeutic profile without a GP (+1.8%), a GP (family) (+14.2%), a surgical profile without anesthesiologists-resuscitators (+4.0%), radiologists and radiologists (+15,3%), dentists (+2.3%). The indicator was unchanged among ophthalmologists, otorhinolaryngologists, neurologists, dermato-venereologists, exercise therapy doctors. The proportion of therapeutic doctors (without GPs) and GPs tended to increase and amounted to 1.7% and 22.8%, respectively, by the end of the study period. The specific gravity indicator increased among surgical doctors without anesthesiologists-resuscitators, obstetricians-gynecologists, ophthalmologists, otorhinolaryngologists, neurologists, radiologists and radiologists, exercise therapy doctors, dentists. A decrease was registered in pediatricians, psychiatrists and psychiatrists-narcologists, phthisiatricians, dermato-venereologists. The Russian Federation occupies a leading position among the awakened countries in terms of the provision of doctors (per 100,000 population). Discussions about the general shortage of medical personnel in the Russian Federation have no substantial grounds. It is necessary to pay attention not to quantitative indicators of the provision of the population with doctors, but to qualitative ones. To form a sustainable national health system, it is necessary to balance the ratio of medical specialists of various specialties. It is necessary to develop a mechanism for a scientifically based "state order" for doctors of the required specialty, as well as to form a flexible mechanism for the distribution of specialists.
La imagen del obispo ideal en la revuelta de las Comunidades de Castilla (1520-1521).
Authors: César Rizzuto Claudio
Published: December 2020

La tradición del obispo ideal posee una larga trayectoria en la historia del cristianismo. El siglo XVI fue uno de los momentos en que más se discutió este punto, con interés particular por reformar las costumbres del clero en Europa Occidental. Los reinos hispánicos no fueron ajenos a este movimiento, en especial entre los intentos de reforma propuestos por los Reyes Católicos y el Concilio de Trento. Entre estos dos procesos, la revuelta de las Comunidades de Castilla (1520-1521) presentó el esbozo de un programa de reforma eclesiástica y de los obispos en particular. Entre los diferentes escritos de los rebeldes y en el contexto del levantamiento puede hallarse la disputa por una imagen del obispo y sus tareas.
Front Matter: Volume 1
Authors: Hájek Petr , Vít Ondřej
Published: December 2020

This PDF file contains the front matter of the Proceedings of CBU in Natural Sciences and ICT  Volume 1 including the Title Page, Copyright information, Table of Contents, Introduction, and Conference Committee listing.
Moving house
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: December 2020

Whatever the circumstances of a house move – planned or unplanned – it can be a confusing and stressful time for children. Claire Hewson outlines ways to explore the subject while making children feel more confident about the transition.
Characteristics and reoperation rates of paediatric tarsal coalitions: A population-based study
Authors: Jackson Taylor J. , Mathew Smitha E. , Larson A. Noelle , Stans Anthony A. , Milbrandt Todd A.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Tarsal coalitions are congenital fusions of two or more tarsal bones and can lead to foot pain and stiffness. Few studies examine the long-term reoperation rates following paediatric tarsal coalition surgery.

Methods

A population-based database, linking medical records at all medical centres to capture the entire medical history of the full population of a Midwest county, was used to identify tarsal coalitions in children between 1966 and 2018. Records were reviewed for clinical data, surgical records and followed up to identify any subsequent surgical interventions.

Results

A total of 58 patients (85 coalitions) were identified; 46 calcaneonavicular (CN) coalitions, 30 talocalcaneal (TC) coalitions and nine other coalitions (seven talonavicular, one naviculocuboid, one naviculocuneiform). In all, 46 coalitions were treated surgically (43 coalition resections, three arthrodeses) and 39 were treated nonoperatively. Patients treated surgically were less likely to report ongoing symptoms at final follow-up compared with patients managed nonoperatively (33% versus 67%; p = 0.0017). With a median 14.4 years (interquartile range 9.3 to 19.7) follow-up, there was an overall re-operation rate of 8.7% (4/46). Differences in reoperation rates by initial surgery (resection versus arthrodesis; p = 0.2936), coalition type (CN versus TC versus Other; p = 0.6487) or composition (osseous versus fibrocartilaginous; p = 0.29) did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

This is the first population-based study demonstrating the durability of surgical management of tarsal coalitions in a paediatric population. At final follow-up, patients treated surgically are less likely to report persistent symptoms compared with patients managed nonoperatively. Long-term reoperation rates appear to be low (8.7%).

Level of evidence

III
Gender matters: family background and upper secondary education in Finland
Authors: Hautala Helena , Kallio Johanna M.
Published: December 2020

The intergenerational transmission of education and social position is a widely studied topic, but measurement of the significance of gender in this subject has received less attention. We study gender differences in the effect of parental disadvantage on the probability of a child completing upper secondary education in Finland. We use high-quality register data, collected by Statistics Finland. The data are clustered according to families that includes information on both children and their parents. The data consist of a 25 per cent sample of persons born in Finland between 1980 and 1986 (n=157,135). The data are analysed using sibling methods using random-effects linear probability models. The analyses are run separately for daughters and sons. With the exception of parental unemployment, all the indicators measuring disadvantaged parental background are significantly more strongly connected to the probability of sons than the probability of daughters completing upper secondary education. Father’s unemployment is a stronger predictor of the child’s probability of completing upper secondary education than unemployment of the mother. The mother’s educational level predicts a child’s probability of completing upper secondary education more strongly than the educational level of the father. Both mothers’ and fathers’ educational levels have a significantly stronger correlation with sons’ than daughters’ completion of upper secondary education. Equality of opportunity seems to be achieved better among girls than among boys. It might be the case, that the educational system, as one of the most important paths for achieving superior social status to one’s parents, does not treat girls and boys equally. Were this so, it would be especially important to pay more attention to boys’ school readiness and school wellbeing, especially in socioeconomically disadvantageous areas.
Reproducible process regimes during glass welding by bursts of
subpicosecond laser pulses
Authors: Hecker Sebastian , Blothe Markus , Graf Thomas
Published: December 2020

During welding of glass with ultrafast lasers, an irregular formation
of weld seams was prevented by modulation of the average laser power
and spatial beam shaping. The formation of individual molten volumes
in regular intervals was achieved by means of power modulation,
resulting in a predictable and reproducible weld seam with a regular
structure. At constant average power, a homogeneous weld seam without
a periodic signature was alternatively achieved by means of a shaped
beam generating an elongated interaction volume and resulting in a
continuous melting of the material. The influence of the two
approaches, and their combination on the process dynamics, was analyzed
by means of high-speed videos of the plasma emission and of the
formation of the seams.
Psycho-social impacts, experiences and perspectives of patients with Cutaneous Leishmaniasis regarding treatment options and case management: An exploratory qualitative study in Tunisia
Authors: Boukthir Aicha , Bettaieb Jihene , Erber Astrid C. , Bouguerra Hind , Mallekh Rym , Naouar Ikbel , Gharbi Adel , Alghamdi Manal , Plugge Emma , Olliaro Piero , Ben Salah Afif
Published: December 2020

Although non-fatal and mostly self-healing in the case of Leishmania (L.) major, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is mainly treated to reduce lesion healing time. Less attention is paid to the improvement of scars, especially in aesthetically relevant areas of the body, which can dramatically affect patients’ wellbeing. We explored patients’ perspectives about treatment options and the social and psychological burden of disease (lesion and scar). Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with ten confirmed CL patients at two L. major endemic sites in Southern Tunisia (Sidi Bouzid and Gafsa). Participants were selected using a sampling approach along a spectrum covering e.g. age, sex, and clinical presentation. Patients’ experiences, opinions and preferences were explored, and their detailed accounts gave an insight on the impact of CL on their everyday lives. The impact of CL was found to be considerable. Most patients were not satisfied with treatment performance and case management. They expected a shorter healing time and better accessibility of the health system. Tolerance of the burden of disease was variable and ranged from acceptance of hidden scars to suicidal thoughts resulting from the fear to become handicapped, and the stress caused by close relatives. Some believed CL to be a form of skin cancer. Unexpectedly, this finding shows the big gap between the perspectives of patients and assumptions of health professionals regarding this disease. This study provided valuable information for better case management emphasizing the importance of improving communication with patients, and accessibility to treatment. It generated context-specific knowledge to policy makers in Tunisia to implement effective case management in a country where access to treatment remains a challenge due to socio-economic and geographic barriers despite a long tradition in CL control.
Influence of extrusion cooking on physicochemical properties and starch digestion kinetics of Sphenostylis stenocarpa, Cajanus cajan, and Vigna subterranean grains
Authors: Adeleye Oluwafunmilayo O. , Awodiran Seun T. , Ajayi Atinuke O. , Ogunmoyela Toluwalope F.
Published: December 2020

Thermal degradation of sugars and amino acids, and depolymerization of macromolecules such as starch, proteins and fibre occasioned by high-temperature short-time extrusion cooking modify the physicochemical and functional properties of raw materials. High-temperature short-time extrusion cooking holds promise for the expanded use of non-conventional ingredients as food/feed due to its practicality, increased productivity and efficiency, and ability to retain thermally degradable nutrients during cooking. However, little is known about the effect of the high-temperature short-time extrusion cooking process on the physicochemical properties and starch digestibility of lesser-known grain legumes such as African yam beans (Sphenostylis stenocarpa), Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), and Bambara peanut (Vigna subterranean). In this study, we investigate the effect of high-temperature short-time extrusion cooking and extrusion cooking temperature; low (100°C) vs high (140°C) temperatures in a single screw extruder, on hydration characteristics, viscoamylolytic properties, in vitro starch digestibility and digestion kinetics of these grain legumes. We show that water holding capacity and swelling power increased (p < 0.05) with increasing extrusion temperature for Sphenostylis stenocarpa and Vigna subterranean but not Cajanus cajan extrudates. Significant effects of extrusion cooking (i.e unextruded vs 100°C and unextruded vs 140°C) and extrusion temperatures (i.e. 100°C vs 140°C) were observed in peak, trough, final and setback viscosities of all extrudates. Starch digestibility and digestion characteristics were modified with increase in extrusion temperature, however, no effect of extrusion temperatures (i.e. 100°C vs 140°C) on starch digestion kinetics was observed for Sphenostylis stenocarpa and Vigna subterranean except for hydrolysis index (34.77 vs 40.77%). Nutritional and physiological implications of extruded grain legumes in monogastric animal feeding were also highlighted. The Information presented herein will influence expanded use of extruded grain legumes as feed ingredients for intensive monogastric animal feeding.