bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic modeling of rotor-bearing-housing system with local defect on ball bearing using mass distribution and energy methods
Authors: Liu Yaofeng , Yan Changfeng , Wang Kai , Gao Xianghong , Zhang Xin , Wu Lixiao
Published: March 2021

The rotor-bearing-housing system is widely used in rotating machines, which influences the performance of the whole machine. Considering the distribution of rotor mass, the rotor-bearing-housing system with local defect in the outer ring is modeled based on the energy method. In order to make the model agree well with the experimental results, a new rotor mass distribution method was introduced in the modeling process. The simulated vibration signal was obtained by solving the dynamic equations with the Runge-Kutta method. The vibration responses of rotor-bearing-housing system under different distributed disks at both drive end and fan end are simulated. In the simulation results, the outer ring fault signal at the drive end and the vibration signal at the fan end are compared with the experimental signals to discuss the influence of rotor mass distribution on the vibration response of the bearing at both ends of the system. The results show that the simulation signal generated by the dynamic model of the rotor-bearing-housing system with a more uniform rotor mass distribution is more consistent with the experimental signal. The vibration response of the faulty bearing at drive end is compared at different defect sizes, and the variation trend of the amplitude of their characteristic frequency is obtained. This method is helpful for structural optimization and fault diagnosis of the rotor-bearing-housing system.
Afterword: Interrogating naturalisation, naturalised uncertainty and anxious states
Authors: Fortier Anne-Marie
Published: March 2021

This afterword addresses four broad questions raised by this special issue: uncertainty as a mode of governance, the ontological politics of naturalisation, the citizen-noncitizen distinction, and performative (anxious) states. First, taking uncertainty as a mode of neoliberal governance as the starting point of analysis, this afterword invites the scrutiny of the ways in which the artifice and uncertainty of citizenship are concealed or rendered irrelevant in naturalisation processes. Second, the contributions to this special issue consider naturalisation as a social and political process, rather than solely as a legal status. Pushing this conception further, this afterword considers naturalisation as transactional in two ways: on the one hand, migrants navigate a number of formal and informal requirements and ‘tests’, where some transactions are needed along the way, be they financial, practical, or symbolic. On the other hand, transactions will also occur in the translation of political ideology into policy. Third, naturalisation regimes both blur and reify the citizen-noncitizen and the citizen-migrant distinctions. Distinctions which this afterword unpacks by unravelling the assumed separation between citizenship and migration. How are citizens and migrants migratised? How are migrants and citizens citizenised? Fourth, a further element of the analysis concerns how state-citizen relations are enacted and by extension, how the state itself is ‘made up’ and ‘anxious’. The affective politics of ‘anxious states’ are telling of the frames of desire of naturalisation, which are founded on a threefold principle: the desirability of citizenship, the desire for desirable citizens, and the desirability of the state itself.
A Systematic Review of Telehealth and Sport-Related Concussion: Baseline Testing, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Toresdahl Brett G. , Young Warren K. , Quijano Brianna , Scott Daphne A.
Published: March 2021

Background: The use of telehealth has increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As sports at all levels resume, sports medicine physicians may be interested in how telehealth can be used for concussion care. Questions/Purpose: We sought to assess how telehealth has been used in the baseline testing, diagnosis, and/or management of concussion. Secondarily, we sought to assess the strengths and weaknesses of telehealth for concussion care and identify aspects of concussion care for which telehealth has not yet been studied. Methods: A systematic review was performed in September 2020 of PubMed and Embase using the following terms: concuss*, “mild traumatic brain,” “head injur*,” telehealth, telemedicine, telecare, “mobile health,” m-health, virtual. Studies included were original research articles investigating the use of telehealth in the care of concussion (including baseline testing, diagnosis, and management), published in English, and had full text available. Results: A total of 356 articles were screened, of which 5 were determined to meet inclusion criteria. These articles described the use of telehealth for managing concussion in military and rural settings. No articles involved the use of telehealth for baseline concussion testing of athletes or for sideline evaluation. Conclusion: Despite the limited original research on the use of telehealth for concussion care, the articles identified provide a foundation for exploring the potential value of telehealth in the office practice and sports team setting. Telehealth may expand the ability of a sports medicine physician to provide timely and effective concussion care to athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. More rigorous research is needed.
Telehealth Can Be Implemented Across a Musculoskeletal Service Line Without Compromising Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Greenfield Paul T. , Manz Wesley J. , DeMaio Emily L. , Duddleston Sage H. , Xerogeanes John W. , Scott Maughon T. , Spencer Corey C. , Dawes Alexander , Boden Scott D. , Hammond Kyle E. , Wagner Eric R. , Gottschalk Michael B. , Daly Charles A. , Pombo Mathew W.
Published: March 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes to in-office orthopedic care, with a rapid shift to telemedicine. Institutions’ lack of established infrastructure for these types of visits has posed challenges requiring attention to confidentiality, safety, and patient satisfaction. Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility of telemedicine in orthopedics during the pandemic and its effect on efficiency and patient satisfaction. Methods: Patients seen by the Emory University Department of Orthopaedics Sports Medicine and Upper Extremity Divisions via telemedicine from March 23 to April 24, 2020, were contacted by telephone. Each patient was asked to respond to questions on satisfaction, ease of use, and potential future use; satisfaction with telemedicine and previous clinical visits were measured using a modified 5-point Likert scale. Results: Of the 762 patients seen, 346 (45.4%) completed the telemedicine questionnaire. Satisfaction varied by visit type, with average scores of 4.88/5 for in-office clinic visits versus 4.61/5 for telemedicine visits. There was no significant difference among age groups for satisfaction ratings. Patients 65 years old or older reported significantly longer visit times and decreased ease of use with the telemedicine platform. Conclusion: Telemedicine in a large orthopedics department was successfully implemented without compromising patient satisfaction. The use of telemedicine allows many patients to be seen quickly and efficiently without diminishing their musculoskeletal clinical experience.
Track design and realization of braiding for three-dimensional variably shaped cross-section preforms
Authors: Guowei Shao , Zhihong Sun , Qihong Zhou , Zhenxi Wang , Bing Wang , chang Xu , Tao Fang , Hua Lin
Published: March 2021

The preforms of three-dimensional (3D) braided composites have a monolithic structure that is braided with high-performance fibers using 3D braiding technology. Compared with traditional laminate composites, braided composites are widely favored because of their superior overall performance and mechanical properties. The capability of fabricating various yarn structures with a flexible 3D rotary braiding method, however, has not been systematically investigated, especially for a variable-section braiding structure. In accordance with the principles of braiding technology and the characteristics of a 3D braiding structure, in this study, we examined a braiding technology for the production of 3D variably shaped cross-section fabric, focusing on three key factors: the topology design of tracks, the arrangement of carriers, and the matrix algorithm of the braiding of variably shaped cross sections. We calculated new kind of structural synthesis approach to a 3D braiding track for a variable section based on the carrier arrangement characteristic method and completed the entire braiding scheme of the variable cross section. In addition, this approach represents an important step toward a simplified understanding of the carrier motion and the operator-independent operation of a 3D rotary braiding machine.
Established an eco-friendly cotton fabric treating process with enhancing anti-wrinkle performance
Authors: Luo Xiongfang , Cheng Pei , Wang Wencong , Fu Jiajia , Gao Weidong
Published: March 2021

This study establishes an eco-friendly anti-wrinkle treating process for cotton fabric. Sodium hydroxide-liquid ammonia pretreatment followed by 6% (w/w) PU100 adding citric acid pad-cure-dry finishing. In this process, citric acid (CA) was used as the fundamental crosslinking agent during finishing because it is a non-formaldehyde based, cost-effective and well wrinkle resistance agent. Environmental-friendly waterborne polyurethane (WPU) was used as an additive to add to the CA finishing solution. Six commercial WPUs were systematically investigated. Fabric properties like wrinkle resistance, tensile strength retention, whiteness, durable press, softness, and wettability were well investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectra and X-ray diffraction spectra were also measured and discussed before and after adding waterborne polyurethane. Tentative mechanism of the interaction among the WPU, CA, and modified cotton fabrics is provided. The effect of cotton fabric pretreatment on fabric performance was also investigated. After the eco-process’s treatment, the fabric wrinkle resistant angle was upgraded to 271 ± 7°, tensile strength retention was maintained at 66.77% ± 3.50% and CIE whiteness was elevated to 52.13 ± 3.21, which are much better than the traditional CA anti-wrinkle finishing based on mercerized cotton fabrics. This study provides useful information for textile researchers and engineers.
Peginterferon beta-1a was associated with high adherence and satisfaction in patients with multiple sclerosis in a German real-world study
Authors: Menge Til , Rehberg-Weber Karin , Taipale Kirsi , Nastos Ilias , Jauß Marek
Published: March 2021

Background:

Peginterferon beta-1a was developed for treatment of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to provide an interferon with increased exposure to facilitate adherence by reducing frequency of application. This non-interventional observational study investigated the adherence to peginterferon beta-1a in real-world clinical practice settings.

Methods:

This prospective study was conducted from 1/2015 to 1/2018 at 77 German MS sites. Adult patients with RRMS (previously treated or treatment-naïve) receiving peginterferon beta-1a (125 µg SC every 2 weeks) were eligible for participation. Data were documented every 3 months over 2 years (nine visits). The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients with overall adherence defined as ⩽10% of injections not administered throughout the 24-month observation period. Secondary endpoints included persistence, patient satisfaction, efficacy (relapse activity, disability progression), and tolerability. Patients were invited to participate in an individualised patient support programme.

Results:

Out of 250 enrolled patients, 190 (aged 18–74 years, 75.3% female) were included in the efficacy analysis. Of those, 74 patients completed the study; 33.2% were treatment-naïve. The proportion of patients with an overall adherence of >90% was 75.7% (95% CI 67.9–81.6). The annualised relapse rate was 0.17. Compared with previous therapies, the scores for treatment satisfaction and convenience were markedly higher with peginterferon beta-1a. Overall, 87.4% participated in the patient support programme, and 47.8% of patients reported adverse events.

Conclusions:

Adherence to the bi-weekly treatment with peginterferon beta-1a was very high. Although adherence could have been positively influenced by the well-accepted patient support programme, the extent could not be unequivocally evaluated. Clinical disease activity remained low. Peginterferon beta-1a was well tolerated, and there were no new relevant safety findings.
Understanding the Role of Brand Salience in Brand Choice Decisions in the Charity Sector
Authors: Ngo Liem Viet , Gregory Gary , Miller Ryan , Lu Lu
Published: March 2021

Despite the importance of branding in customer acquisition, little is known about the extent to which brand salience influences brand choice intention of new customers. Drawing upon associative network memory theory, we propose that brand salience is composed of brand prominence and brand distinctiveness, which are linked to brand choice intention of new customers. Our theoretical contention was empirically examined in the context of monetary donation to international aid-related charities by new donors. A mixed-method approach was utilized with semi-structured interviews with practitioners and donors, and two cross-sectional surveys. The study offers a holistic view for understanding brand salience and, as such, advances recent work focusing on the breadth and depth of brand associations in the customer’s mind.
Using Natural Language Processing to Measure and Improve Quality of Diabetes Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Turchin Alexander , Florez Builes Luisa F.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Real-world evidence research plays an increasingly important role in diabetes care. However, a large fraction of real-world data are “locked” in narrative format. Natural language processing (NLP) technology offers a solution for analysis of narrative electronic data.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review of studies of NLP technology focused on diabetes. Articles published prior to June 2020 were included.

Results:

We included 38 studies in the analysis. The majority (24; 63.2%) described only development of NLP tools; the remainder used NLP tools to conduct clinical research. A large fraction (17; 44.7%) of studies focused on identification of patients with diabetes; the rest covered a broad range of subjects that included hypoglycemia, lifestyle counseling, diabetic kidney disease, insulin therapy and others. The mean F1 score for all studies where it was available was 0.882. It tended to be lower (0.817) in studies of more linguistically complex concepts. Seven studies reported findings with potential implications for improving delivery of diabetes care.

Conclusion:

Research in NLP technology to study diabetes is growing quickly, although challenges (e.g. in analysis of more linguistically complex concepts) remain. Its potential to deliver evidence on treatment and improving quality of diabetes care is demonstrated by a number of studies. Further growth in this area would be aided by deeper collaboration between developers and end-users of natural language processing tools as well as by broader sharing of the tools themselves and related resources.
Weak ties matter: Social network dynamics of mobile media multiplexity and their impact on the social support and psychological well-being experienced by migrant workers
Authors: Liu Piper Liping , Yeo Tien Ee Dominic
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the contextual and relational characteristics that underlie people’s information and communication technology (ICT) use and the implications for their well-being. We contextualize this investigation according to migrants, because they are faced with disruptions to their personal networks in the migration process that may attenuate the availability of social support and negatively affect their mental health. Migrants tend to be proficient in using mobile ICT to connect with different social ties to fulfill their needs, which potentially makes a difference to their psychological well-being. Through a survey of 504 internal migrant workers in China, we examined the social network factors that underlie multiple mobile ICT use and the attendant influences on social support and psychological well-being. Redressing the overemphasis on the importance of strong ties in extant literature, this study highlights the salience of mobile media multiplexity (i.e., the use of multiple mobile communication channels for social interactions) in weak tie communication and the greater contribution of weak ties toward social support and psychological well-being than strong ties. Our findings suggest that mobile-mediated communicative relationships with newer and more distanced social connections outside their immediate circles enhance the well-being of migrants. We contend that media multiplexity vis-à-vis weak ties underscores the reconfiguration of migrants’ communicative relationships following the separation from original ties and facilitates rewarding interactions with new ties.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic urology trainees in the West of Scotland
Authors: Carrera Ashley , Shin Je Song , Bekarma Holly
Published: March 2021

Hospitals worldwide have taken unprecedented steps to cope with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Changes to services created challenges for delivering training in urology. Statutory education bodies implemented processes addressing trainee progression, but the extent of training disruption has not been quantified. To establish the impact on urology trainees in the West of Scotland, online questionnaires were sent to trainees and educational supervisors. Twenty-five trainees working at six hospitals across four health boards responded. Elective operating was significantly reduced, with 64% of trainees having no weekly sessions. Before the pandemic, the majority of trainees (92%) had one or two clinic sessions or more per week, but with new measures, 76% of trainees did not attend clinics. Trainee attendance at multidisciplinary team meetings halved during the pandemic. Sixteen per cent ( n=4) of trainees were redeployed, with 50% ( n=2) reporting no educational benefit. Commonly used alternative educational resources included webinars (52%) and online teaching modules (28%). Thirty-two per cent ( n=8) of trainees had examinations postponed. COVID-19 has impacted urology training in the West of Scotland, with a significant reduction in training opportunities across elective theatre, clinic exposure and education. However, trainees will be more adaptable, learn to work remotely, have opportunities to develop leadership and may help redesign services for the future of urology.

Level of evidence: Not applicable.
Experiences of recovery from colorectal cancer surgery after hospital discharge among the oldest old: A qualitative study
Authors: Eriksen Kristina Sundt , Eikeland Husebø Sissel Iren , Kørner Hartwig , Lode Kirsten
Published: March 2021

Colorectal cancer affects a large number of people aged ≥80 years. Little is known about how they manage after discharge from hospital. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of individuals aged ≥80 years recovering from surgery for colorectal cancer, and the challenges they may encounter after discharge from hospital. Data were collected between January and March 2016 through in-depth interviews with ten participants approximately one month after surgery. Inductive thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. The COREQ checklist was used in reporting this study. Two themes were identified: Managing the recovery from CRC surgery, and Insufficient follow-up from the healthcare services after CRC surgery. The findings indicate that older people treated for colorectal cancer manage surprisingly well after discharge despite challenges in their recovery; however, there are seemingly areas of improvement in their follow-up healthcare.
Successful Management of a COVID-19 Positive Infant With Transposition of the Great Arteries
Authors: Nabialek Tomasz J. , Puppala Naga K. , Riordan Andrew , Ramaraj Ram , Duong Phuoc , Guerrero Rafael
Published: March 2021

A six-week-old infant presented in extremis and was diagnosed with dextro-transposition of the great arteries, intact ventricular septum, features of left ventricular deconditioning, and abnormal coronary arteries. Treatment with prostaglandin E1 and balloon atrial septostomy was insufficient, necessitating extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 was detected. The arterial switch operation was delayed by eight days because of COVID-19. Although stable on ECMO, the infant was treated with remdesivir. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was not required postoperatively with chest closure on day 2 and extubation on day 5.
Validation of an Adapted Version of the Statistical Anxiety Scale in English and Its Relationship to Attitudes Toward Statistics
Authors: O’Bryant Monique , Natesan Batley Prathiba , Onwuegbuzie Anthony J.
Published: March 2021

The aims of this study were to validate an instrument that measured statistics anxiety and to examine how attitudes toward statistics predict statistics anxiety using the Attitudes Toward Statistics (ATS) Scale for a sample of 323 undergraduate social science majors enrolled in colleges and universities in the United States. A confirmatory factor analysis suggested retaining a revised two-factor model of the Statistical Anxiety Scale (SAS) to measure statistics anxiety, namely, help and interpretation anxiety ([Formula: see text] = 49.37, df = 38.13, p = .105, comparative fit index [CFI] = .959, standardized root mean square residual [SRMR] = .035, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = .076). An examination of discriminant validity of the scores of the SAS with scores of the ATS subscales revealed that statistics anxiety and attitudes toward statistics are distinct constructs. Structural equational modeling was used to determine whether attitude toward course and attitude toward field were predictors of examination anxiety and asking for help anxiety. Of the two factors of the ATS scale, attitudes toward field and attitudes toward course, the latter predicted examination anxiety better than the former did, although both were moderate predictors of examination anxiety. We recommend that statistics educators consider the role of statistics anxiety as well as attitudes toward statistics and the field when designing their pedagogical approach.
Comparison of Accuracy and Speed in Computer-Assisted Versus Conventional Methods for Pediatric Drug Dose Calculation: A Scenario-Based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chongthavonsatit Nichapha , Kovavinthaweewat Chayanich , Yuksen Chaiyaporn , Sittichanbuncha Yuwares , Angkoontassaneeyarat Chuenruthai , Atiksawedparit Pongsakorn , Phattharapornjaroen Phatthranit
Published: March 2021

Pediatric emergency care is prone to medication errors in many aspects including prescriptions, administrations, and monitoring. This study was designed to assess the effects of computer-assisted calculation on reducing error rates and time to prescription of specific emergency drugs. We conducted a randomized crossover experimental study involving emergency medicine residents and paramedics in the Department of Emergency Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital. Participants calculated and prescribed medications using both the conventional method and a computer-assisted method. Medication names, dosages, routes of administration, and time to prescription were collected and analyzed using logistic and quantile regression analysis. Of 562 prescriptions, we found significant differences between computer-assisted calculation and the conventional method in the calculation accuracy of overall medications, pediatric advanced life support (PALS) drugs, and sedative drugs (91.17% vs 67.26%, 86.54% vs 46.15%, and 89.29% vs 57.86%, respectively, P < .001). Moreover, there were significant differences in calculation time for overall medications, PALS drugs and sedative drugs (25 vs 47 seconds, P < .001), and computer-assisted calculation significantly decreased the gap in medication errors between doctors and paramedics ( P < .001). We conclude that computer-assisted prescription calculation provides benefits over the conventional method in accuracy of all medication dosages and in time required for calculation, while enhancing the drug prescription ability of paramedics.
Who Votes among Asian American Ethnic Subgroups?
Authors: Xiao Haifan , Bass Loretta E.
Published: March 2021

The authors address the gap in what is known about voting among Asian American ethnic subgroups using National Asian American Survey 2016 Post-Election Survey data to investigate the propensity to vote in the 2016 presidential election across two samples: registered Asian Americans and registered naturalized Asian Americans. The authors use logistic regressions to examine voting behavior across 10 Asian ethnic subgroups for the first time. Across both samples of Asian Americans and naturalized Asian Americans, Chinese Americans demonstrate a lower propensity to vote than most other Asian ethnic subgroups, while Asian Indian and Bangladeshi Americans demonstrate a higher propensity to vote. Among all Asian Americans, being female, being older, and having more education all pattern higher rates of reported voting in the 2016 presidential election, while for naturalized Asians, time in the United States and higher levels of education are associated with a higher likelihood of voting in the 2016 presidential election.
Toward a Sociology of Artificial Intelligence: A Call for Research on Inequalities and Structural Change
Authors: Joyce Kelly , Smith-Doerr Laurel , Alegria Sharla , Bell Susan , Cruz Taylor , Hoffman Steve G. , Noble Safiya Umoja , Shestakofsky Benjamin
Published: March 2021

This article outlines a research agenda for a sociology of artificial intelligence (AI). The authors review two areas in which sociological theories and methods have made significant contributions to the study of inequalities and AI: (1) the politics of algorithms, data, and code and (2) the social shaping of AI in practice. The authors contrast sociological approaches that emphasize intersectional inequalities and social structure with other disciplines’ approaches to the social dimensions of AI, which often have a thin understanding of the social and emphasize individual-level interventions. This scoping article invites sociologists to use the discipline’s theoretical and methodological tools to analyze when and how inequalities are made more durable by AI systems. Sociologists have an ability to identify how inequalities are embedded in all aspects of society and to point toward avenues for structural social change. Therefore, sociologists should play a leading role in the imagining and shaping of AI futures.
Desired freight and undesired migrants: Security and market forces at internal EU borders
Authors: Vergnano Cecilia
Published: March 2021

Based on a comparison between two intra-EU border securitization processes in the aftermath of the so-called EU “refugee crisis” of 2015, this article aims to contribute to literature on migration control by stressing the role that market-security dynamics play in state borderwork. The comparison between the French/Italian and the Austrian/Italian borders suggests that the containment of undesired mobility may be better understood in light of economic processes (shared commercial interests between states and the interests of the security industry) whose dimensions are easily quantifiable and comparable but rarely taken into account in research on borders and migration. The analysis highlights that these economic processes, together with other historical, political, social and geomorphological factors, are crucial to explain the emergence of different “local border control regimes” in terms of police cooperation, states’ sovereignty practices and the reconfiguration of migratory routes. As an additional argument, the article brings out the nuances of the EU’s uneven core-periphery dynamics with respect to migration management. Indeed, it shows the active role of peripheral countries, such as Italy, in negotiating, contesting, or actively assuming their role of migration “gatekeepers”.
Live-In Relationships in India—Legal and Psychological Implications
Authors: Narayan Choudhary Laxmi , Narayan Mridula , Deepanshu Mridul
Published: March 2021

Live-in relationship, that is, living together as couple without being married to each other in a legally accepted way, is considered a taboo in India. But recently, such relationships are being increasingly common due to a variety of reasons. In absence of any specific legislation, rules, or customs on the subject, the Supreme Court has issued certain guidelines in its judgment for regulating such relationships. This article tries to figure out the current legal positions governing the live-in relationships in India after making a systemic assessment of these judgments. Live-in relationship between two consenting adults is not considered illegal and if the couple present themselves to the society as husband and wife and live together for a significant period of time, the relationship is considered to be a relationship “in the nature of marriage” under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, 2005. Consequently, the female partner is entitled to claim alimony under its provisions. Children born out of such relationships are considered legitimate and entitled to get share in the self-acquired property of their parents, though they are not entitled for a coparcenary share in the Hindu undivided family property. Live-in relationships may enable the couple to know each other better, but such no-strings-attached relationship has its disadvantages as well. The couple faces multiple social and logistics problems in day-to-day living. From mental health point of view, it is considered better to be engaged in a good-quality relationship than living alone and having no relation at all.
The Roko Syndrome: A Mirror of Koro Syndrome
Authors: Stip Emmanuel , Nguyen Julian , Bertulies-Esposito Bastian , Bedard Marie-Joelle , Paradis Andreanne , Tempier Adrien
Published: March 2021

It is well established that 1 in 50 individuals receives a diagnosis of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Within body image disorders, there is genital retraction syndrome also known as Koro. A unique syndrome in which there is a heightened belief that one’s genitals will diminish in size, retract into the abdomen and ultimately lead to death. However, we have recently discovered a separate form of BDD that is directly opposite of Koro, in which the patient presents a strong belief that his penis will enlarge and extend out of their body. We present a unique case report of a counter-Koro syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by the delusion that one’s penis is growing larger and that it will result in its extreme protrusion from the abdomen and a consequent fear of recurring and visible erections. Given its mirror-like presentation and uniqueness to occurring only in males, we refer to it as Roko Syndrome. To our knowledge, this syndrome has not yet been reported in the literature and requires further study to understand whether it fits as a separate syndrome or falls along the spectrum of body dysmorphia. Thus, assessments used to identify body image disorders can be broadened to include items representing the behavior and presentation of Roko that we delineate in comparison of Koro. The new syndrome is also easily distinguishable from a priapism which is a urological emergency.
EDLMFC: an ensemble deep learning framework with multi-scale features combination for ncRNA–protein interaction prediction
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Zhao Yanpeng , Gong Weikang , Liu Yang , Wang Mei , Huang Xiaoqian , Tan Jianjun
Published: March 2021

Background

Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) and protein interactions play essential roles in various physiological and pathological processes. The experimental methods used for predicting ncRNA–protein interactions are time-consuming and labor-intensive. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for computational methods to accurately and efficiently predict ncRNA–protein interactions.

Results

In this work, we presented an ensemble deep learning-based method, EDLMFC, to predict ncRNA–protein interactions using the combination of multi-scale features, including primary sequence features, secondary structure sequence features, and tertiary structure features. Conjoint k-mer was used to extract protein/ncRNA sequence features, integrating tertiary structure features, then fed into an ensemble deep learning model, which combined convolutional neural network (CNN) to learn dominating biological information with bi-directional long short-term memory network (BLSTM) to capture long-range dependencies among the features identified by the CNN. Compared with other state-of-the-art methods under five-fold cross-validation, EDLMFC shows the best performance with accuracy of 93.8%, 89.7%, and 86.1% on RPI1807, NPInter v2.0, and RPI488 datasets, respectively. The results of the independent test demonstrated that EDLMFC can effectively predict potential ncRNA–protein interactions from different organisms. Furtherly, EDLMFC is also shown to predict hub ncRNAs and proteins presented in ncRNA–protein networks of Mus musculus successfully.

Conclusions

In general, our proposed method EDLMFC improved the accuracy of ncRNA–protein interaction predictions and anticipated providing some helpful guidance on ncRNA functions research. The source code of EDLMFC and the datasets used in this work are available at https://github.com/JingjingWang-87/EDLMFC.
Characterization of self-anticipated pain score prior to elective surgery - a prospective observational study
Authors: Chang Wei-Shu , Hsieh Yi-Ting , Chen Moa-Chu , Chang Shu-Ching , Chen Tzu-Shan , Chang Yun-Chi , Tsai Yu-Chuan , Lam Chen-Fuh
Published: March 2021

Background

Current principles of postoperative pain management are primarily based on the types and extent of surgical intervention. This clinical study measured patient’s self-anticipated pain score before surgery, and compared the anticipated scores with the actual pain levels and analgesic requirements after surgery.

Methods

This prospective observational study recruited consecutive patients who received elective surgery in the E-Da Hospital, Taiwan from June to August 2018. Patients were asked to subjectively rate their highest anticipated pain level (numeric rating scale, NRS 0–10) for the scheduled surgical interventions during their preoperative anesthesia assessment. After the operation, the actual pain intensity (NRS 0–10) experienced by the patient in the post-anesthesia care unit and the total dose of opioids administered during the perioperative period were recorded. Pain scores ≥4 on NRS were regarded as being unacceptable levels for anticipated or postoperative pain that required more aggressive intervention.

Results

A total of 996 patients were included in the study. Most of the patients (86%) received general anesthesia and 73.9% of them had a history of previous operation. Female anticipated significantly higher overall pain intensities than the male patients (adjusted odd ratio 1.523, 95% confidence interval 1.126–2.061; P = 0.006). Patients who took regular benzodiazepine at bedtime (P = 0.037) and those scheduled to receive more invasive surgical procedures were most likely to anticipate for higher pain intensity at the preoperative period (P < 0.05). Higher anticipated pain scores (preoperative NRS ≥ 4) were associated with higher actual postoperative pain levels (P = 0.007) in the PACU and higher total equivalent opioid use (P < 0.001) for acute pain management during the perioperative period.

Conclusion

This observational study found that patients who are female, use regular benzodiazepines at bedtime and scheduled for more invasive surgeries anticipate significantly higher surgery-related pain. Therefore, appropriate preoperative counseling for analgesic control and the management of exaggerated pain expectation in these patients is necessary to improve the quality of anesthesia delivered and patient’s satisfaction.
Incidence and predictors of hospitalization in patients with atrial fibrillation: results from the Chinese atrial fibrillation registry study
Authors: Dong Zhaojie , Du Xin , Lu Shangxin , Jiang Chao , Xia Shijun , He Liu , Su Xin , Jia Zhaoxu , Long Deyong , Sang Caihua , Tang Ribo , Liu Nian , Bai Rong , Yu Ronghui , Dong Jianzeng , Ma Changsheng
Published: March 2021

Background

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) underwent a high risk of hospitalization, which has not been paid much attention to in practice. Therefore, we aimed to assess the incidence, causes and predictors of hospitalization in AF patients.

Methods

From August 2011 to December 2017, a total number of 20,172 AF patients from the Chinese Atrial Fibrillation Registry (China-AF) Study were prospectively selected for this study. We described the incidence, causes of hospitalization by age groups and sex. The Fine-Gray competing risk model was employed to identify predictors of first all-cause and first cause-specific hospitalization.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 37.3 ± 20.4 months, 7,512 (37.2%) AF patients experienced one or more hospitalizations. The overall incidence of all-cause hospitalization was 24.0 per 100 patient-years. Patients aged < 65 years were predominantly hospitalized for AF (42.1% of the total hospitalizations); while patients aged 65–74 and ≥ 75 years were mainly hospitalized for non-cardiovascular diseases (43.6% and 49.3%, respectively). We found patients complicated with heart failure (HF)[hazard ratio (HR) 1.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–1.18], established coronary artery disease (CAD) (HR 1.24, 95%CI 1.17–1.33), ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) (HR 1.22, 95%CI 1.15–1.30), diabetes (HR 1.14, 95%CI 1.08–1.20), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (HR 1.28, 95%CI 1.02–1.62), gastrointestinal disorder (HR 1.37, 95%CI 1.21–1.55), and renal dysfunction (HR 1.24, 95%CI 1.09–1.42) had higher risks of hospitalization.

Conclusions

More than one-third of AF patients included in this study were hospitalized at least once during over 3-year follow-up. The main cause for hospitalization among the elderly patients (≥ 65 years) is non-cardiovascular diseases rather than AF. Multidisciplinary management of comorbidities should be advocated to reduce hospitalization in AF patients older than 65 years old.

Clinical Registryhttp://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=5831. Unique identifier: ChiCTR-OCH-13003729. The registration date is October 22, 2013.
Molecular characterization of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) in women in Lomé, Togo
Authors: Kuassi-Kpede Akouélé P. , Dolou Essolakina , Zohoncon Théodora M. , Traore Ina Marie Angèle , Katawa Gnatoulma , Ouedraogo R. Alice , Traore Esther Mah , Bado Prosper , Ouedraogo T. Clarisse , Djigma Florencia Wendkuuni , Karou Simplice Damintoti , Simpore Jacques
Published: March 2021

Background

The causative agent of cervical cancer referred to as Human papillomavirus (HPV) remains a real public health problem. Many countries in West Africa, such as Togo have no data on the high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) infection and genotypes distribution. In order to fill the knowledge gap in the field in Togo, the main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix and HR-HPV genotypes among Togolese women.

Methods

Samples were collected from 240 women by introducing a swab in the cervix. Then, the screening of precancerous cervical lesions using the visual inspection with acetic acid and lugol (VIA / VIL) was conducted. The HR-HPV genotypes were characterised by real-time multiplex PCR.

Results

Out of 240 women recruited, 128 (53.3%) were infected by HR-HPV. The most common genotypes were HPV 56 (22.7%), followed by HPV 51 (20.3%), HPV 31 (19.5%), HPV 52 (18.8%) and HPV 35 (17.2%). The least common genotypes were HPV 33 (2.3%) and HPV 16 (2.3%). Among the women, 1.3% (3/240) were positive to VIA/VIL.

Conclusion

This study allowed HR-HPV genotypes to be characterised for the first time in Lomé, Togo. This will help in mapping the HR-HPV genotypes in West Africa.
Body appreciation and body appearance pressure in Norwegian university students comparing exercise science students and other students
Authors: Sundgot-Borgen Christine , Sundgot-Borgen Jorunn , Bratland-Sanda Solfrid , Kolle Elin , Torstveit Monica Klungland , Svantorp-Tveiten Kethe M. E. , Mathisen Therese Fostervold
Published: March 2021

Background

Body image is considered a core issue for public health and associates with university students’ overall health. Due to positive associations between exercise and body image, it has been suggested that students within an exercise science program might be more body appreciative compared to other students. On the other hand, the strong societal idealization of the athletic body may expose them to a pressure of having a specific body appearance, which may result in unfavorable health consequences. Nevertheless, studies investigating these hypotheses are lacking. We therefore aimed to explore the level and associations of body appreciation, body appearance pressure, body image related mental health constructs, physical activity, and exercise, in Norwegian university exercise science and non-health reference students.

Method

Male and female exercise science students (n = 517) and reference students (n = 476), from nine large universities in Norway took part in this cross-sectional study. Participants responded to the Body appreciation scale-2, a self-developed questionnaire on body appearance pressure, Physical Appearance Comparison Scale-Revised, Sociocultural attitudes towards appearance questionnaire-4R, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and questions about physical activity and exercise. Between group differences were analyzed using student independent t-test and ANCOVA for parametric data and Chi-square test for categorical data, and associations were evaluated by Person’s correlation. P-values ≤0.05 were defined as significant.

Results

Female exercise science students had higher scores on body appreciation compared to reference students. No group difference was found in males. A high percentage of students reported experiencing body appearance pressure, with 69 and 85% among male and female exercise science students, and 57 and 83% among male and female reference students. Fitness centers were the settings where most respondents experienced body appearance pressure. Body appreciation was strongly associated with favorable scores on body image related mental health constructs, while personally experienced body appearance pressure associated with destructive scores on the same constructs.

Conclusion

Body appearance pressure is an issue among university students regardless of study program. Actions to promote body appreciation and prevent body appearance pressure may include an implementation of media literacy, body functionality, and exercise as topics within the education program to safeguard students’ health and well-being.

Clinical trial registry

No. NCT04256967.
Socioeconomic inequalities in lung cancer – a time trend analysis with German health insurance data
Authors: Tetzlaff Fabian , Epping Jelena , Tetzlaff Juliane , Golpon Heiko , Geyer Siegfried
Published: March 2021

Background

Lung Cancer (LC) is one of the most prevalent cancer diseases. Due to the lack of databases which allow the combination of information on individual socioeconomic status (SES) and cancer incidence, research on social inequalities in LC among the German population is rare. The aim of the study is to analyse time trends in social inequalities in LC in Germany.

Methods

The analyses are based on data of a large statutory health insurance provider. The data contain information on diagnoses, occupation and education (working age), and income (full age range) of the insurance population. Trends were analysed for two subpopulations (retirement age and working age) and stratified by sex. The analyses are based on incidence rates and proportional hazard models spanning the periods 2006–2009, 2010–2013 and 2014–2017.

Results

Incidence rates declined in men but increased in women. For men, inequalities were strongest in terms of income and the decline in incidence was most pronounced in middle- and higher-income men. Among women at retirement age, a reversed income gradient was found which disappeared in the second period. The educational gradient among the working-age population decreased over time due to the trend towards increasing incidence among individuals with higher education. Declining gradients were also found for occupational position.

Conclusion

The findings reveal considerable inequalities in LC and that trends vary with respect to SES, sex and age. Widening income inequalities were found in the retired population, while educational and occupational inequalities tend to narrow among the working-age population.
Occupational stress and associated factors among health care professionals in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Girma Bekahegn , Nigussie Jemberu , Molla Alemayehu , Mareg Moges
Published: March 2021

Background

Occupational stress is a global health problem which affects employed personals especially health professionals. The burden of stress is not limited at individual level, but also affects the organizations productivity, the quality of care and country in large. In Ethiopia, little concern is given to this problem and individual studies conducted among health care professionals also showed inconsistent result. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the pooled prevalence of occupational stress and its associated factors among health care professionals in Ethiopia.

Methods

Articles were searched from PubMed, Hinari, PsychInfo, Science direct databases, Google and Google scholar. A total of 10 studies were included in this review and meta-analysis. We used a standardized format for data extraction and STATA software version 13 for analysis. A random effect meta-analysis model was used to determine the pooled prevalence of occupational stress and I2was used to check heterogeneity. Begg’s and Egger’s tests were conducted to detect publication bias. Furthermore, sensitivity and subgroup analysis was also conducted. Association was expressed by pooled odd ratio with corresponding 95% CI.

Results

The pooled prevalence of occupational stress was 52.5 [95% CI: (47.03, 57.96)]. The heterogeneity test was I2 = 89.1% &P < 0.001. The result of the publication bias detection (Begg’s and Egger’s) tests werep = 0.283 andp = 0.369 respectively. Female sex was identified as a significant predictor for occupational stress with a pooled effect of 3.75 [95% CI: (2.58, 5.45)].

Conclusions

Above half of health care professionals had occupational stress. Being female was significantly associated factor in this review and meta-analysis. Therefore, introduction of policies supporting health care professionals well-being at work in Ethiopia are advisable.