bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic management of pathologic gastroesophageal reflux after sleeve gastrectomy using the magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device—a Video Vignette
Authors: Bona Davide , Zappa Marco Antonio , Panizzo Valerio , Sozzi Andrea , Lastraioli Caterina , Lombardo Francesca , Ogliari Cristina , Aiolfi Alberto 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Purpose
The development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been shown to be not infrequent after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Management may vary from medical therapy to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) conversion. Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device has been shown to be a promising option with excellent results. The purpose of this video was to demonstrate the laparoscopic management of post-LSG GERD with MSA device implant.

Materials and Methods
An intraoperative video has been edited to demonstrate the MSA device placement after LSG for the treatment of pathologic GERD.

Results
The procedure started with the lysis of the perigastric adhesions to free the distal esophagus circumferentially. The posterior vagus nerve was identified, and a small window was created between the posterior esophageal wall anteriorly and the vagus nerve posteriorly. A hiatoplasty was performed using two non-resorbable interrupted 2.0 Prolene® sutures. The system’s sizer was placed to measure the junctional circumference. A 15-mm MSA device was implanted.

Conclusion
MSA device placement seems technically feasible and safe with promising results in term of improved LES resting pressure and esophageal acid exposure. While future studies are necessary to corroborate these preliminary indications, MSA device may possibly become a valid option in surgeon armamentarium.
Minimally-invasive treatments for benign thyroid nodules: recommendations for information to patients and referring physicians by the Italian Minimally-Invasive Treatments of the Thyroid group
Authors: Mauri Giovanni , Bernardi Stella , Palermo Andrea , Cesareo Roberto ,   the Italian Minimally-Invasive Treatments of the Thyroid group, Papini Enrico , Solbiati Luigi , Barbaro Daniele , Monti Salvatore , Deandrea Maurilio , Fugazzola Laura , Gambelunghe Giovanni , Negro Roberto , Spiezia Stefano , Stacul Fulvio , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Cavallaro Marco , Achille Gaetano , Cantisani Vito , Cozzaglio Luca , Crescenzi Anna , De Cobelli Francesco , Garberoglio Roberto , Giugliano Gioacchino , Persani Luca , Raggiunti Bruno , Seregni Ettore , Van Doorne Dominique , Frasoldati Andrea , Carzaniga Chiara , Lombardi Celestino Pio , Papi Giampaolo , Guglielmi Rinaldo , Orsi Franco , Cervelli Rosa , Barbieri Chiara , Trimboli Pierpaolo , Monzani Dario 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Purpose
In this paper, the members of the Italian Working Group on Minimally-Invasive Treatments of the Thyroid (MITT group) aim to summarize the most relevant information that could be of help to referring physicians and that should be provided to patients when considering the use of MITT for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules.

Methods
An interdisciplinary board of physicians with specific expertise in the management of thyroid nodules was appointed by the Italian MITT Group. A systematic literature search was performed, and an evidence-based approach was used, including also the knowledge and the practical experience of the panelists to develop the paper.

Results
The paper provides a list of questions that are frequently asked by patients to operators performing MITT, each with a brief and detailed answer and more relevant literature references to be consulted.

Conclusions
This paper summarizes the most relevant information to be provided to patients and general practitioners/referring physicians about the use of MITT for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules.
Novel regional longitudinal strain by speckle tracking to detect significant coronary artery disease in patients admitted to the emergency department for chest pain suggestive of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Norum Ingvild Billehaug , Otterstad Jan Erik , Ruddox Vidar , Bendz Bjørn , Edvardsen Thor 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Global longitudinal strain has shown variable results in detecting ischemia in patients admitted to the emergency department with chest pain, but without other clear evidence of coronary artery disease (CAD). Our aim was to investigate whether assessment of regional longitudinal myocardial function could assist in detecting significant CAD in these patients.

Methods
Clinical evaluation, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram and troponin T were evaluated in 126 patients admitted with chest pain. A subsequent invasive coronary angiography divided patients into two groups: significant CAD (CAD+) or non-significant CAD (CAD−). Global and regional myocardial function were evaluated by speckle tracking echocardiography. Regional longitudinal strain was defined as the highest longitudinal strain values in four adjacent left ventricular segments and termed 4AS.

Results
CAD+ was found in 37 patients (29%) of which 51% had elevated troponin. Mean 4AS was − 13.1% (± 3.5) in the CAD+ and − 15.2% (± 2.7) (p = 0.002) in the CAD− group. Predictors for CAD+ were age [OR 1.06 (1.01–1.11, p = 0.026)], smoking [OR 3.39 (1.21–9.51, p = 0.020)], troponin [OR 3.32 (1.28–8.60, p = 0.014)) and 4AS (OR 1.24 (1.05–1.46, p = 0.010)]. A cutoff for 4AS of > − 15% showed the best diagnostic performance with event-reclassification of 0.41 (p < 0.001), non-event-reclassification of − 0.34 (p < 0.001) and net reclassification improvement 0.07 (p = 0.60).

Conclusion
Decreased myocardial function in four adjacent LV segments assessed by strain has the potential to detect significant CAD in patients admitted with chest pain and negative/slightly elevated initial troponin.
Trial registration: Current Research information system in Norway (CRISTIN). Id: 555249.
Diagnostische Fähigkeiten mit der videobasierten Lernumgebung ViviAn fördern
Authors: Enenkiel Patrizia , Bartel Marie-Elene , Walz Moritz , Roth Jürgen 
Published: March 2022

ZusammenfassungZiel des vorliegenden Forschungsprojekts ist es, zu untersuchen, ob diagnostische Fähigkeiten von Mathematiklehramtsstudierenden mit der videobasierten Lernumgebung ViviAn (https://vivian.uni-landau.de) gefördert werden können. Für die Entwicklung von ViviAn wurden kurze Videovignetten aus videografierten Gruppenarbeiten im Mathematik-Labor „Mathe ist mehr“ zugeschnitten und mit entsprechenden Kontextinformationen in der dazu entwickelten Lernumgebung ViviAn implementiert. Die Videovignetten zeigen Schülerinnen und Schüler der Klassenstufen 5, 6 und 11 bei der Bearbeitung von Aufgaben zur Bestimmung von Längen, Flächen- und Rauminhalten geometrischer Figuren. Entsprechend umfasst der Diagnosegegenstand die Fähigkeiten, die die Schülerinnen und Schüler bei der Bearbeitung der Aufgaben zeigen und die Schwierigkeiten, die sie beim Lösen dieser Aufgaben haben. Ausgehend vom Diagnosegegenstand und dem Ziel der Förderung der Schülerinnen und Schüler leiten inhaltlich abgestimmte Diagnoseaufträge die Studierenden durch die Videoanalysen. Die diagnostischen Fähigkeiten wurden hierbei durch die Teilkomponenten Beschreiben, Deuten, Ursachen finden und Konsequenzen ableiten operationalisiert. Um den Studierenden die Möglichkeit zu geben, mit Hilfe der Lernumgebung ihre diagnostischen Fähigkeiten zu entwickeln, können sie ihre Antworten mit Musterlösungen zu den Diagnoseaufträgen vergleichen. Zur Prüfung der Wirksamkeit der videobasierten Lernumgebung wurde eine quasi-experimentelle Studie mit einer Kontrollgruppe durchgeführt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die Arbeit mit der videobasierten Lernumgebung zu einer signifikanten Lernentwicklung der Mathematiklehramtsstudierenden hinsichtlich ihrer diagnostischen Fähigkeiten in diesem mathematikdidaktischen Bereich beiträgt. Bei der Kontrollgruppe hingegen konnte kein Lerneffekt verzeichnet werden. Wir schließen daraus, dass die Arbeit mit ViviAn Studierende dabei unterstützen kann, diagnostische Fähigkeiten zu entwickeln.
Embedded Computational Heart Model for External Ventricular Assist Device Investigations
Authors: Kummer Thomas , Rossi Simone , Vandenberghe Stijn , Demertzis Stefanos , Jenny Patrick 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Purpose
External cardiac assist devices are based on a promising and simple concept for treating heart failure, but they are surprisingly difficult to design. Thus, a structured approach combining experiments with computer-based optimization is essential. The latter provides the motivation for the work presented in this paper.

Methods
We present a computational modeling framework for realistic representation of the heart’s tissue structure, electrophysiology and actuation. The passive heart tissue is described by a nonlinear anisotropic material law, considering fiber and sheetlet directions. For muscle contraction, an orthotropic active-strain model is employed, initiated by a periodically propagating electrical potential. The model allows for boundary conditions at the epicardium accounting for external assist devices, and it is coupled to a circulation network providing appropriate pressure boundary conditions inside the ventricles.

Results
Simulated results from an unsupported healthy and a pathological heart model are presented and reproduce accurate deformations compared to phenomenological measurements. Moreover, cardiac output and ventricular pressure signals are in good agreement too. By investigating the impact of applying an exemplary external actuation to the pathological heart model, it shows that cardiac patches can restore a healthy blood flow.

Conclusion
We demonstrate that the devised computational modeling framework is capable of predicting characteristic trends (e.g. apex shortening, wall thickening and apex twisting) of a healthy heart, and that it can be used to study pathological hearts and external activation thereof.
Through the Newsfeed Glass: Rethinking Filter Bubbles and Echo Chambers
Authors: Figà Talamanca Giacomo , Arfini Selene 
Published: March 2022

AbstractIn this paper, we will re-elaborate the notions of filter bubble and of echo chamber by considering human cognitive systems’ limitations in everyday interactions and how they experience digital technologies. Researchers who applied the concept of filter bubble and echo chambers in empirical investigations see them as forms of algorithmically-caused systems that seclude the users of digital technologies from viewpoints and opinions that oppose theirs. However, a significant majority of empirical research has shown that users do find and interact with opposing views. Furthermore, we argue that the notion of filter bubble overestimates the social impact of digital technologies in explaining social and political developments without considering the not-only-technological circumstances of online behavior and interaction. This provides us with motivation to reconsider this notion’s validity and re-elaborate it in light of existing epistemological theories that deal with the discomfort people experience when dealing with what they do not know. Therefore, we will survey a series of philosophical reflections regarding the epistemic limitations of human cognitive systems. In particular, we will discuss how knowledge and mere belief are phenomenologically indistinguishable and how people’s experience of having their beliefs challenged is cause of epistemic discomfort. We will then go on to argue, in contrast with Pariser’s assumptions, that digital media users might tend to conform to their held viewpoints because of the “immediate” way they experience opposing viewpoints. Since online people experience others and their viewpoints as material features of digital environments, we maintain that this modality of confronting oneself with contrasting opinions prompts users to reinforce their preexisting beliefs and attitudes.
Determination of the water-soluble polymer poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) in wastewater effluents by continuous-flow off-line pyrolysis-GC/MS
Authors: Vidovic Nada , Krauskopf Lisa-Maria , Jovancicevic Ivana , Antic Vesna , Schwarzbauer Jan 
Published: March 2022

AbstractHigh production rates and wide areas of application of water-soluble polymers indicate their potential occurrence in wastewater. Poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) is such a water-soluble and poorly biodegradable polymer with non-ionic, non-sticky, non-toxic and thermosensitive properties. Its field of applications covers being a constituent in aerosol sprays, pump sprays, and lotions as well as its usage as flocculant in wastewater treatment plants. However, although discharged into sewage treatment plants at high amounts, analytical methods for determining water soluble polymers, in particular PNVCL, in environmental samples are still missing. Therefore, this study aims at developing an efficient analytical method for detecting trace levels of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) in wastewaters by applying continuous-flow off-line Py-GC/MS for the first time. The approach was based on the identification of specific off-line pyrolysis products (ε-caprolactam, N-vinylcaprolactam) that haven been used in the following for a calibration process that allowed a quantitative determination. An evaluation including specificity, linearity, sensitivity and reproducibility characterized this approach as very suitable for detection of this polymer in complex environmental matrices such as wastewaters. Finally, the transferability has been checked by analyzing a real wastewater from a sewage treatment plant effluent. Here limitations especially due to matrix effects are lowering the sensitivity of the pyrolysis-based method. Nevertheless, a contamination with approx. 70 µg/L of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) was determined pointing to a huge emission of PNVCL into the aquatic environment and a general high environmental relevance of this synthetic polymer. Noteworthy, this is the first report on the occurrence of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) in environmental samples.
Crown area predicts total biomass for Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, an invasive shrub in Florida
Authors: Smith Melissa C. , Pratt Paul D. , Rayamahji Min B. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractPredictive models of aboveground plant biomass derived from nondestructive measurements greatly assist in monitoring and surveying natural areas. Where invasive species are concerned, these models can provide insights to the impacts of invasions and efficacy of management strategies. Furthermore, tools that facilitate a rapid inventory allow for multiple assessments of impact over larger areas. Downy rose myrtle [Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk.] is an invasive shrub in Florida and Hawaii that is native to southeastern Asia. Rhodomyrtus tomentosa was imported into Florida in the early 20th century through the ornamental plant trade and produces pink flowers and edible purple globe fruits. This woody shrub is particularly problematic in the understory of Florida’s mesic pine forests, where it forms dense, impenetrable thickets. To characterize the populations more accurately in Florida and build predictive equations for biomass that could be used to inform control methods, we established a network of sites from which we harvested individuals over 3 yr. Based on these measurements, we built a simple predictive equation for R. tomentosa dry biomass. Crown area strongly associates with biomass in a linear relationship (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.82). Fruit production is highly variable, but positively correlates to plant height in individuals that have reached reproductive size (plants below 1 m generally do not produce fruit), albeit weakly (P < 0.002, R2 = 0.27). We demonstrate here that two simple measurements—height and crown area—can accurately predict biomass and, to some degree, fruit production for R. tomentosa in Florida and may guide control methods by focusing on removing individuals larger than 1 m tall.
RADIOCARBON CHRONOLOGY OF THE MESOLITHIC-NEOLITHIC SEQUENCE AT DAMJILI CAVE, AZERBAIJAN, SOUTHERN CAUCASUS
Authors: Nishiaki Yoshihiro , Zeynalov Azad , Munsrov Mansur , Guliyev Farhad 
Published: March 2022

ABSTRACTCurrent research indicates that full-fledged Neolithic societies emerged in the Southern Caucasus in the early sixth millennium BC, most likely through interaction with and/or the immigration of the Neolithic societies of Southwest Asia. However, the absence of late seventh millennium BC excavated sites has prevented us from being able to interpret the processes in relation to earlier indigenous foraging societies. The 2016–2019 excavations at Damjili Cave, west Azerbaijan, revealed a stratified cultural sequence of the key Mesolithic-to-Neolithic transition period for the first time. Its radiocarbon chronology identified a rather abrupt emergence of the Neolithic economy at around 6000 cal BC, at least in the study region, urging a reconsideration of the long-standing claim that some other form of earlier Neolithic society had existed before this. At the same time, the stratigraphic analysis of cultural remains revealed continuity in certain elements of tool manufacturing and use from the Mesolithic to the Neolithic. This complex situation shows the need for evaluating the degree to which indigenous foraging societies contributed to the Neolithization of the Southern Caucasus, rather than focusing merely on immigration models.
Naive cubical type theory
Authors: Bentzen Bruno 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThis article proposes a way of doing type theory informally, assuming a cubical style of reasoning. It can thus be viewed as a first step toward a cubical alternative to the program of informalization of type theory carried out in the homotopy type theory book for dependent type theory augmented with axioms for univalence and higher inductive types. We adopt a cartesian cubical type theory proposed by Angiuli, Brunerie, Coquand, Favonia, Harper, and Licata as the implicit foundation, confining our presentation to elementary results such as function extensionality, the derivation of weak connections and path induction, the groupoid structure of types, and the Eckmman–Hilton duality.
AD-LAST! An interdisciplinary clinical workshop to improve cultural and spiritual awareness in advance care planning skills
Authors: Pan Cynthia X. , Spinelli Alexandra , Litrivis Evgenia , Popoviciu Ariana , Thomson Kelly Persaud , Brondolo Elizabeth 
Published: March 2022

AbstractObjectivesClinicians report training deficits in advance care planning (ACP), including limits to their understanding of cultural/spiritual influences on patient decision-making and skills in interdisciplinary teamwork. This study describes Advance Directives-Live Action Simulation Training (AD-LAST), an interdisciplinary experiential and didactic training program for discussing ACP and end-of-life (EOL) care. AD-LAST highlights cultural/spiritual variations in medical decision-making.MethodsProspective educational cohort study with pre-post intervention survey. AD-LAST incorporated standard curricular tools for didactic and experiential training in ACP/EOL communication. Study conducted in an urban community teaching hospital in Queens, NY, one of the most diverse counties in the USA. Participants included physicians, house staff, nurses, therapists, and other disciplines. AD-LAST format was a one-day workshop. The morning focused on didactic teaching using widely available curricular tools. The afternoon involved experiential practice with standardized patient-actors. Pre-post intervention questionnaires assessed ACP operational knowledge and self-efficacy (i.e., self-confidence in skills) in ACP and EOL communication. Repeated measure ANOVAs evaluated changes from pretest to posttest in knowledge and self-efficacy.ResultsA total of 163 clinical staff participated in 21 AD-LAST training sessions between August 2015 and January 2019. Participants displayed a significant increase from pretest to posttest in total knowledge (p < 0.001), ACP procedural knowledge (p < 0.001), ACP communication/relationships knowledge (p < 0.001), and self-efficacy (p < 0.001). Knowledge and self-efficacy were not correlated and represented independent outcomes. Postprogram evaluations showed greater than 96% of participants were highly satisfied with AD-LAST, especially the opportunity to practice skills in real-time and receive feedback from members of other professional groups.Significance of resultsAD-LAST, a multifaceted training program deployed in an interdisciplinary setting, is effective for increasing ACP knowledge and self-efficacy, including the capacity to address cultural/spiritual concerns. The use of standard tools facilitates dissemination. The use of case simulations reinforces learning.
Effect of virtual reality-based exercise intervention on sleep quality in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and healthy siblings: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tanriverdi Müberra , Cakir Erkan , Akkoyunlu Muhammed Emin , Cakir Fatma Betül 
Published: March 2022

AbstractObjectiveSleep is one of the important measurements of the quality of life for children especially suffering from a chronic illness such as cancer. Our aim was to determine the changes in sleep quality and to investigate the effect of virtual reality-based exercise (VRBE) approaches on sleep in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) off treatment.MethodThe participants (ALL and healthy siblings) were evaluated for sleep quality with polysomnography and “Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire” before and after 12 weeks. The study randomized into two groups: an exercise group who received VRBE in two days in a week, 45 min of each session for 12 weeks and an control group who were managed with supportive measures. The VRBE comprised of aerobic exercise in four different games by Nintendo Wii Fit Plus®.ResultsThis randomized controlled trial was carried out on 38 participants. Before intervention, ALL patients (n = 24) and healthy siblings (n = 14) had similar sleep quality in terms of polysomnography and Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire findings. After intervention, total time asleep (p = 0.023), respiratory disturbance index of hypopnea (p = 0.005), apnea/hypopnea index (p = 0.008), and number of apnea (p = 0.028) statistically significant improved.Significance of resultsPatients with ALL off treatment had similar values of sleep quality with healthy siblings. Novel types of exercises like VRBE have positive effects on sleep disorders in children with ALL and also healthy siblings. Future studies are needed comparing the different types of interventions.