bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of 12 months of creatine supplementation and whole-body resistance training on measures of bone, muscle and strength in older males
Authors: Candow Darren G , Chilibeck Philip D , Gordon Julianne , Vogt Emelie , Landeryou Tim , Kaviani Mojtaba , Paus-Jensen Lisa
Published: November 2020

Background:

The combination of creatine supplementation and resistance training (10–12 weeks) has been shown to increase bone mineral content and reduce a urinary indicator of bone resorption in older males compared with placebo. However, the longer-term effects (12 months) of creatine and resistance training on bone mineral density and bone geometric properties in older males is unknown.

Aim:

To assess the effects of 12 months of creatine supplementation and supervised, whole-body resistance training on bone mineral density, bone geometric properties, muscle accretion, and strength in older males.

Methods:

Participants were randomized to supplement with creatine ( n = 18, 49–69 years, 0.1 g·kg-1·d-1) or placebo ( n = 20, 49–67 years, 0.1 g·kg-1·d-1) during 12 months of supervised, whole-body resistance training.

Results:

After 12 months of training, both groups experienced similar changes in bone mineral density and geometry, bone speed of sound, lean tissue and fat mass, muscle thickness, and muscle strength. There was a trend ( p = 0.061) for creatine to increase the section modulus of the narrow part of the femoral neck, an indicator of bone bending strength, compared with placebo. Adverse events did not differ between creatine and placebo.

Conclusions:

Twelve months of creatine supplementation and supervised, whole-body resistance training had no greater effect on measures of bone, muscle, or strength in older males compared with placebo.
An in vitro evaluation on polyurethane foam sheets of the insertion torque, removal torque values, and resonance frequency analysis (RFA) of a self-tapping threads and round apex implant
Authors: Tumedei Margherita , Piattelli Adriano , Falco Antonello , De Angelis Francesco , Lorusso Felice , Di Carmine Maristella , Iezzi Giovanna
Published: November 2020

The dental implant primary stability and micromovement absence represent critical factor for dental implant osseointegration. The aim of the present in vitro investigation was to simulate the bone response on different polyurethane densities the effect of self-tapping threads and round apex implant geometry. A total of 40 implants were positioned in D1, D2, D3 and D4 polyurethane block densities following a calibrated drilling protocol. The Insertion, removal Torque and resonance frequency analysis (RFA) means were calculated. All experimental conditions showed insertion torque values >30 Ncm. A significant higher insertion torque, removal and RFA was present in D1 polyurethane. Similar evidences were evidenced for D3 and D4. The effectiveness of the present study suggested a valuable clinical advantage for self-tapping threads and round apex implant using, such as in case of reduced bone density in the posterior maxilla
A comparative analysis of the efficacy and safety of therapeutic interventions in phlegmasia cerulea dolens
Authors: Said Ahmad , Sahlieh Ali , Sayed Luay
Published: November 2020

Objective

Present an institution’s experience in management of phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) with a review of the literature.

Methods

Beaumont Health’s electronic record database was queried between July 2009 and November 2019 for inpatients with PCD. A comprehensive chart review was performed to verify the accuracy of the diagnosis and extract relevant parameters. Medians and proportions are reported.

Results

22 patients met the criteria for PCD. 59% females. Median age 65 years (interquartile range [IQR] 22). Obesity was present in 45% of patients. 18 patients underwent either a single modality (55.5%) or a multimodality therapeutic approach (44.5%). Limb amputation was required in a third of patients who underwent catheter-directed thrombolysis or percutaneous thrombectomy alone. Death was highest after percutaneous thrombectomy alone (66%) followed by pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis alone (50%).

Conclusion

Percutaneous interventions have become the mainstay in management of PCD as demonstrated in this large retrospective analysis and supported by literature review.
School-Based Sexual Health Education for Adolescents in Turkey: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aslan Funda
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study is, identifying school-based intervention studies that are made regarding the Sexual Heath Education in Turkey and are reviewing systematically. Peer-reviewed articles and thesis in Turkey were systematically searched from online databases. Studies that passed the inclusion criteria were qualitatively assessed. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies showed that positive results were achieved at the end of the training. In the case of six studies, the method of expression was chosen as the training method, and only one study included the peer education method. Only one study included the social dimension of sexual health. None of the studies did report longitudinal outcomes. The negative attitudes towards sexual health education and hidden cultural resistance are, unfortunately, the main reasons for this. Considering the potential for the young population in Turkey, the number of school-based sexual health education should be increased, and educational content should be enriched.
Chronic massive pericardial effusion: a case report and literature review
Authors: Huang Ying-shuo , Zhang Jian-xiong , Sun Ying
Published: November 2020

Chronic massive pericardial effusion without cardiac tamponade is relatively rare. Nearly half of all patients with chronic large pericardial effusion are asymptomatic. We report a case of a 77-year-old man who presented with an asymptomatic chronic massive pericardial effusion, with no evidence of cardiac tamponade or pericardial constriction during a 10-year follow-up. The patient had a complex history of lymph node tuberculosis, hypertension, hypothyroidism, and polycythemia vera, as well as high-dose 31P radiation exposure 45 years ago. There was no evidence of tuberculosis infection, hypothyroidism, malignant tumor, severe heart failure, uremia, trauma, severe bacterial or fungal infection, chronic myeloid leukemia, or bone marrow fibrosis after admission. The patient underwent pericardiocentesis twice. The pericardial effusion comprised exudate fluid with a high proportion of monocytes. The patient refused indwelling catheter drainage or pericardiectomy. The likely final diagnosis was recurrent chronic large idiopathic pericardial effusion.
Sjögren’s syndrome with rapidly progressive motor neuron disease: a case report
Authors: Yang Huijia , Jing Xiaozhong , Yan Jinhua , Ma Dihui
Published: November 2020

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple systems. Sjögren’s syndrome with motor neuron disease is rarely reported. Herein, we describe a patient with rapidly progressive motor neuron disease secondary to Sjögren’s syndrome. A 42-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a 2-month history of progressive limb weakness. Neurological assessment revealed fasciculation in the lower limbs and amyotrophy in the bilateral supraspinatus, interosseous, and thenar muscles. Serological examination and labial gland biopsy revealed Sjögren’s syndrome. In addition, electromyography demonstrated neurogenic damage to the upper and lower limbs. The patient received a short course of high-dose corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins, and immunosuppressant treatment, including a weekly dose of 0.4 g cyclophosphamide and a daily dose of 0.2 g hydroxychloroquine. However, the patient’s limb weakness was further aggravated and her respiratory function was compromised. Electromyography re-examination demonstrated extensive neurogenic damage, and she was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome with motor neuron disease. The patient died of respiratory failure after 2 months. We suggest that more effective maintenance treatments should be sought. Further investigation is required to elucidate the association between autoimmune motor neuron disease and Sjögren’s syndrome.
Effect of Adhesion Boosters on the Indirect Bonding with the Lingual Brackets: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Solanki Sanad Kumar Singh , Gupta Yogesh , Chaudhary Varunjeet , Nickychandra Thiyam , Pai Shubhuda , Ramraika and Moon
Published: November 2020

Aims and Objectives:

To evaluate the influence of the two adhesion boosters (assure universal bonding resin and enhance adhesion booster) on the shear bond strengths of indirectly bonded lingual brackets.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 120 extracted human teeth were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 40), each group contained equal number of anterior and posterior teeth (anterior = 20, posterior = 20), and their lingual surfaces were etched by using 37% phosphoric acid. The bracket was bonded indirectly without using adhesion booster in group 1 (control group). In group 2, the adhesion booster A (enhance adhesion booster) and adhesion booster B (assure universal bonding resin) in group 3 were applied, respectively, before the bonding. The universal testing machine was used to measure the maximum bond strength. Student’s t-test followed by the one-way analysis of variance was used to compare shear bond strength among the groups.

Results:

The shear bond strength was found to be highest in group 3, followed by group 2, and it was least in controls. There were highly significant differences statistically in shear bond strength among the groups 1, 2, and 3 ( P = .001).

Conclusion:

Shear bond strength was admissible in all the groups. The application of the assure universal bonding resin significantly increased the bond strength of lingual brackets in indirect bonding.
Comparison of Rate of Canine Retraction and Secondary Outcomes Associated With Conventional Fixed Orthodontic Treatment and Minimally Invasive Techniques (MOPs): A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Parihar Ajit Vikram , Verma Shivam , Chaturvedi TP , Kumar Naresh , Prasanth A Kavin , Sahoo Rojalin
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

The objective of the study was to assess the rate of canine retraction and secondary outcomes associated with conventional fixed orthodontic treatment (CFO) and CFO with micro-osteoperforation (CFO + MOP), that is, anchorage loss, root resorption, vitality of tooth, pain and discomfort level during the procedure.

Methods:

A total of 16 patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion who required upper first premolar extraction with lower non-extraction/single incisor extraction were divided into the test group (MOP) and positive control group (CFO + MOP) for a split-mouth study. Both maxillary canines were retracted with nickel–titanium (NiTi) closed coil springs. Patients were reviewed after 24 hours, 7 days, 28 days, and 4, 8, and 16 weeks to assess the rate of tooth movement, anchorage loss, root resorption, vitality of tooth, pain and discomfort level.

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference in the rate of tooth movement between the CFO and CFO + MOP groups after the first 4 weeks ( P-value = .026), whereas no statistically significant difference was observed at 8, 12, and 16 weeks ( P-value = .33, .99, and .08, respectively). In the CFO group, there was no statistically significant difference in tooth movement between different time intervals ( P-value > .05). There was no significant difference in root resorption between the groups. The pain level was higher in the MOP group in the first 24 hours ( P-value < .05) after the procedure. Later on, the difference in pain level between the groups was not significant ( P-value > .05). The vitality of retracted canines in both groups was healthy.

Conclusion:

The study recommends that the CFO + MOP procedure has substantial potential to be used as an adjunct to the routine mechanotherapy for faster tooth movement, as it may reduce the treatment time by half in the first 4 weeks after the MOP procedure. There are no potential differences in anchorage loss, tipping, vitality, and apical and lateral root resorption between the CFO and CFO + MOP groups. This trial was registered at Clinical Trial Registry, India.
On illustrating Carnot’s general proposition by means of reversible Stirling engines
Authors: Naaktgeboren C , Beck KAÉ , Lafay J-MS
Published: November 2020

Carnot’s general proposition, also referred to as one of Carnot’s principles, states that the work producing potential of heat—harvested by reversible heat engines—is independent of the working fluid and of engine internal details, being only a function of the temperatures of the reservoirs with which the engine exchanges heat. This concept, usually presented in introductory thermodynamics courses to ME students in the context of the second law of thermodynamics before entropy is introduced, is customarily proven by contradiction, i.e., by a violation of the second law, using second law concepts and abstractions such as ‘thermal reservoirs’ and ‘reversible engines’, without concrete examples, even though Carnot’s proposition mentions concrete things such as working fluids and engine internal details. This work proposes to document the usage of different reversible Stirling engine models that take the engine arrangement down to engine constructive parameters, crankshaft angles, and the like, as well as fluid properties into account towards illustrating the validity of Carnot’s general proposition without using entropy.
Occupational therapists’ experiences of enabling people to participate in sport
Authors: Bullen Deborah , Clarke Channine
Published: November 2020

Introduction

In response to growing demands on health and social care services there is an emphasis on communities addressing the needs of local populations to improve lives and reduce inequalities. Occupational therapists are responding to these demands by expanding their scope of practice into innovative settings, such as working with refugees, the homeless and residents of nursing homes, and within sport and leisure environments. The benefits of sport are widely acknowledged, and this paper argues that occupational therapists could play a pivotal role in enabling people to participate.

Method

This qualitative study drew on a phenomenological approach and used interviews and thematic analysis to explore five occupational therapists’ experiences of enabling people to participate in sport.

Findings

Findings revealed that participants demonstrated the uniqueness of occupational therapy when enabling people to participate in sport and practised according to their professional philosophy. There were opportunities to reach wider communities and promote the value of occupational therapy by collaborating with organisations, but there were also challenges when working outside of traditional settings.

Conclusion

The study emphasises the unique skills occupational therapists can bring to this setting. It highlights opportunities to expand their practice, to forge new partnerships in sports and leisure environments, and to address the national inactivity crisis.
Visualising internal migration flows across local authorities in England and Wales
Authors: Chen Yu-wang , Ni Lei , Ospina-Forero Luis
Published: November 2020

Internal migration has significant impacts on the population structure, public services, economic and social development of local areas. In this research, we adopted the theory and methods of complex network analysis to visualise the internal migration flows across local authorities in England and Wales. The graphic prominently highlights two spatial and geographic characteristics of population mobility in England and Wales: a large proportion of internal migration is associated with clusters of neighbouring or nearby local authorities, and the most urban authorities, such as London and other major metropolitan cities, have net outward internal migration (i.e., more people moving out than in).
Changes in Matrix Components in the Developing Human Meniscus
Authors: Fedje-Johnston William , Tóth Ferenc , Albersheim Melissa , Carlson Cathy S. , Shea Kevin G. , Rendahl Aaron , Tompkins Marc
Published: November 2020

Background:

Treatment of meniscal tears is necessary to maintain the long-term health of the knee joint. Morphological elements, particularly vascularity, that play an important role in meniscal healing are known to change during skeletal development.

Purpose:

To quantitatively evaluate meniscal vascularity, cellularity, collagen, and proteoglycan content by age and location during skeletal development.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Medial and lateral menisci from 14 male and 7 female cadavers aged 1 month to 11 years were collected and evaluated. For each meniscus, histologic and immunohistologic techniques were used to establish the ratio of the area of proteoglycan (safranin O) positivity to the total area (proteoglycan ratio), collagen type I and type II immunostaining positivity, number of blood vessels, and cell density. These features were evaluated over the entire meniscus and also separately in 5 circumferential segments: anterior root, anterior horn, body, posterior horn, and posterior root. Additionally, cell density and number of blood vessels were examined in 3 radial regions: inner, middle, and periphery.

Results:

Age was associated with a decrease in meniscal vessel count and cell density, while the proteoglycan ratio increased with skeletal maturity. Differences in vessel counts, cellular density, and proteoglycan ratio in different anatomic segments as well as in the inner, middle, and peripheral regions of the developing menisci were also observed. Collagen immunostaining results were inconsistent and not analyzed.

Conclusion:

The cellularity and vascularity of the developing meniscus decrease with age and the proteoglycan content increases with age. All of these parameters are influenced by location within the meniscus.

Clinical Relevance:

Age and location differences in meniscal morphology, particularly in the number of blood vessels, are expected to influence meniscal healing.
No Correlation Between Depth of Acetabuloplasty or Postoperative Lateral Center-Edge Angle on Midterm Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopy With Acetabuloplasty and Labral Repair
Authors: Johannsen Adam M. , Ruzbarsky Joseph J. , Pierpoint Lauren A. , Soares Rui W. , Briggs Karen K. , Philippon Marc J.
Published: November 2020

Background:

The treatment of pincer deformity in hip arthroscopy remains controversial, with some authors advocating that over resection may risk early joint deterioration. The role of acetabular resection depth and postoperative acetabular morphology on postoperative outcomes has yet to be defined.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This study measures the influence of acetabular resection depth and postoperative lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) on minimum 5-year patient-reported outcomes (PROs), revision rates, and conversion to total hip arthroplasty using a single surgeon’s prospective database. We hypothesized that patients with acetabular resections >10°, as measured by LCEA, or patients with postoperative LCEA outside the normal range of 25° to 35° would have lower PROs, higher revision rates, and higher conversion to total hip arthroplasty at midterm follow-up.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 192 patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy with acetabuloplasty and labral repair by a single surgeon with a minimum 5-year follow-up met the inclusion criteria. Preoperative and postoperative LCEAs were measured on supine anteroposterior radiographs, and patients were divided into cohorts based on LCEA and acetabular resection depth. Cohorts for postoperative LCEA were <20° (dysplasia), 20° to 25° (borderline dysplasia), 25° to 35° (normal), and >35° (borderline overcoverage). Cohorts for acetabular resection depth were <5°, 5° to 10°, and >10° difference from preoperative to postoperative LCEA. Outcome measures included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, modified Harris Hip Score, Hip Outcome Score, satisfaction scores, revision rates, and conversion to arthroplasty rates.

Results:

Patients significantly improved in all outcome score measures at final follow-up. There were no statistically significant differences in PRO scores or conversion to total hip arthroplasty between any cohorts in the postoperative LCEA group. There were more revisions in the 25° to 35° cohort than the other cohorts ( P = .02). The 5-10° resection depth cohort demonstrated a higher postoperative WOMAC score ( P = .03), but otherwise no statistically significant differences were seen between resection depth cohorts in the remaining postoperative outcomes scores, revision rates, or conversion to total hip arthroplasty rates.

Conclusion:

Patients with postoperative LCEA values outside the normal reference range and with large resections perform similar to those with normal postoperative LCEA values and smaller resections at a minimum 5-year follow-up.
Early Implantation as a Main Predictor of Response to Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Childhood-Onset Refractory Epilepsy
Authors: Russo Angelo , Hyslop Ann , Gentile Valentina , Chiarello Daniela , Messana Tullio , Miller Ian , Zucchelli Mino , Lima Mario , Ragheb John , Pini Antonella , Cordelli Duccio Maria , Resnick Trevor , Jayakar Prasanna , Duchowny Michael
Published: November 2020

Objective:

We describe a multicenter experience with vagus nerve stimulator implantation in pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Our goal was to assess vagus nerve stimulation efficacy and identify potential predictors of favorable outcome.

Methods:

This is a retrospective study. Inclusion criteria: ≤18 years at time of vagus nerve stimulator implantation, at least 1 year of follow-up. All patients were previously found to be unsuitable for an excisional procedure. Favorable clinical outcome and effective vagus nerve stimulation therapy were defined as seizure reduction >50%. Outcome data were reviewed at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years after vagus nerve stimulator implantation. Fisher exact test and multiple logistic regression analysis were employed.

Results:

Eighty-nine patients met inclusion criteria. Responder rate (seizure frequency reduction >50%) at 1-year follow-up was 25.8% (4.5% seizure-free). At last follow-up, 31.5% had a favorable outcome and 5.2% were seizure free. The only factor significantly predicting favorable outcome was time to vagus nerve stimulator implantation, with the best outcome achieved when vagus nerve stimulator implantation was performed within 3 years of seizure onset. Implantation between 3 and 5 years after epilepsy onset correlated with better long-term seizure freedom (13.3% at T5). Overall, 65.2% of patients evidenced improved quality of life at last follow-up. However, 12.4% had adverse events, but most were mild and disappeared after 3-4 months.

Conclusions:

Early vagus nerve stimulator implantation within 5 years of seizure onset was the only predictor of favorable clinical outcome in pediatric patients. Improved quality of life and a low incidence of significant adverse events were observed.
Active entrepreneurship education and the impact on approaches to learning: Mixed methods evidence from a six-year study into one entrepreneurship educator’s classroom
Authors: Curtis Vic , Moon Rob , Penaluna Andy
Published: November 2020

Taking an active and experiential approach to teaching is often assumed to be the best way to promote learning. However, the empirical evidence to support this assertion in entrepreneurship education is inconclusive, and current practice suggests that delivery in higher education is still quite passive and traditional. This 6-year, mixed method study sets out to demonstrate that, in a final-year International Entrepreneurship module at a UK university mapped through the lens of ‘about’, ‘for’ and ‘through’ entrepreneurship, a more innovative, active, experiential and constructively aligned approach to teaching, learning and assessment impacts positively on students’ deep and surface approaches to learning. Students viewed the module as significantly more active than passive and the level of deep learning was significantly greater than the level of surface learning. Additionally, the more active approach was significantly correlated to increased deep learning and reduced surface learning. Students highlighted the active teaching approach and the creation of videos for a local company as part of the authentic assessment as catalysts for deeper learning approaches. The study provides empirical evidence that active entrepreneurship education has a positive impact on student approaches to learning.
Inhibition of osteoblast proliferation and migration by exogenous and endogenous formaldehyde
Authors: Teng Xu , Wang Pei , Yang Tianshu , Huang Wei , Yu Hefeng , Li Weishi , Chen Zhongqiang , Fan Dongwei
Published: November 2020

Exogenous and endogenous formaldehyde (FA) both play an important role in cell growth and migration; however, their potential role in osteoblasts remains largely unclear. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and wound-healing assays revealed that FA exposure at naturally occurring concentrations inhibited the proliferation and migration of mouse preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells. Moreover, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis revealed that FoxO1 signaling pathway components displayed distinct expression patterns upon FA exposure, reflected through significant enrichment of cell migration. In particular, FoxO1-, Sirt1-, and FA-induced protein expression, which was closely associated with cell proliferation and migration, was confirmed by western blotting. The results obtained indicated that the FoxO1 pathway is involved in FA-induced inhibition of cell growth and migration.
Influence of VDR and HFE polymorphisms on blood lead levels of occupationally exposed workers
Authors: Mani Monica Shirley , Puranik Amitha , Kabekkodu Shama Prasada , Joshi Manjunath B , Dsouza Herman Sunil
Published: November 2020

Lead is a ubiquitous heavy metal toxin of significant public health concern. Every individual varies in their response to lead’s toxic effects due to underlying genetic variations in lead metabolizing enzymes or proteins distributed in the population. Earlier studies, including our lab, have attributed the influence of ALAD (δ-Aminolevulinate dehydratase) polymorphism on blood lead retention and ALAD activity. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of VDR (Vitamin D receptor) and HFE (Hemochromatosis) polymorphisms in modulating blood lead levels (BLLs) of occupationally exposed workers. 164 lead-exposed subjects involved in lead alloy manufacturing and battery breaking and recycling processes and 160 unexposed controls with BLLs below 10 µg/dL recruited in the study. Blood lead levels, along with a battery of biochemical assays and genotyping, were performed. Regression analysis revealed a negative influence of BLLs on ALAD activity ( p < 0.0001) and a positive influence on smokeless tobacco use ( p < 0.001) in lead-exposed subjects. A predicted haplotype of the three VDR polymorphisms computed from genotyping data revealed that T-A-A haplotype increased the BLLs by 0.93 units ( p ≤ 0.05) and C-C-A haplotype decreased the BLLs by 7.25 units ( p ≤ 0.05). Further analysis revealed that the wild-type CC genotype of HFE H63D presented a higher median BLL, indicating that variant C allele may have a role in increasing the concentration of lead. Hence, the polymorphism of genes associated with lead metabolism might aid in predicting genetic predisposition to lead and its associated effects.
An uncertain future for the post-Brexit, post-COVID-19 European Union
Authors: Hadjimichalis Costis
Published: November 2020

Nowadays, the foundation pillars of European unification, namely solidarity and democracy, are under serious threat, perhaps more serious than that from the 2008 economic crisis, Brexit, the migration crisis and COVID-19 combined. As happened in the past, space and geography are again at the forefront asking for interpretations. A once progressive academic field such as urban and regional research is due now to regain its progressive reflexes together with broader political concerns about the future of the European Union (EU).
Co-expression of Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 and viral latent membrane protein 1 in osteosarcoma: A novel insight of predictive markers
Authors: Mardanpour Keykhosro , Rahbar Mahtab , Mardanpour Sourena , Khazaei Sidegheh , Rezaei Mansour
Published: November 2020

Epstein–Barr virus is an etiologic agent of several malignancies. In this study, we explored the association of Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 and Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 co-expression with osteosarcoma. Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 expression in tumor cells was quantified using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization and Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 expression was measured using immunohistochemistry staining. There was a statistically significant association between Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 and Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 co-expression and characteristics of osteosarcoma such as nodal stage (p < 0.04), metastasis (p < 0.04), Ki67 index (p < 0.03), and tumor stage (p < 0.05). Co-expression of Epstein–Barr virus–encoded RNA1 and Epstein–Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 in tumors correlated with advanced osteosarcoma and indicated the aggressiveness of bone sarcoma.
Method comparison of targeted influenza A virus typing and whole-genome sequencing from respiratory specimens of companion animals
Authors: Mitchell Patrick K. , Cronk Brittany D. , Voorhees Ian E. H. , Rothenheber Derek , Anderson Renee R. , Chan Timothy H. , Wasik Brian R. , Dubovi Edward J. , Parrish Colin R. , Goodman Laura B.
Published: November 2020

Epidemics of H3N8 and H3N2 influenza A viruses (IAVs) in dogs, along with recognition of spillover infections from IAV strains typically found in humans or other animals, have emphasized the importance of efficient laboratory testing. Given the lack of active IAV surveillance or immunization requirements for dogs, cats, or horses imported into the United States, serotype prediction and whole-genome sequencing of positive specimens detected at veterinary diagnostic laboratories are also needed. The conserved sequences at the ends of the viral genome segments facilitate universal amplification of all segments of viral genomes directly from respiratory specimens. Although several methods for genomic analysis have been reported, no optimization focusing on companion animal strains has been described, to our knowledge. We compared 2 sets of published universal amplification primers using 26 IAV-positive specimens from dogs, horses, and a cat. Libraries prepared from the resulting amplicons were sequenced using Illumina chemistry, and reference-based assemblies were generated from the data produced by both methods. Although both methods produced high-quality data, coverage profiles and base calling differed between the 2 methods. The sequence data were also used to identify the subtype of the IAV strains sequenced and then compared to standard PCR assays for neuraminidase types N2 and N8.
Environmental Justice Organizing in a Gentrifying Community: Navigating Dilemmas of Representation, Issue Selection, and Recruitment
Authors: Krings Amy , Copic Colette
Published: November 2020

Environmental justice organizations aim to secure an equitable distribution of environmental resources through the participation and self-determination of affected people, particularly communities of color. Yet organizing in a market economy is complicated: As communities become greener, gentrification can follow, thereby inadvertently displacing low-income communities of color and reproducing environmental injustices. This study informs antiracist community practice methods by examining strategic and ethical dilemmas embedded within an environmental justice organization that is located in a gentrifying Mexican American neighborhood in Chicago. Drawing from interviews, we examine members’ perceptions relating to representation, recruitment, and issue selection. We reveal key considerations for community organizations and residents as they work to promote environmental equity without contributing to the marginalization or displacement of communities of color.
Opicapone (Ongentys): A New COMT Inhibitor for the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: St. Onge Erin , Vanderhoof Michelle , Miller Shannon
Published: November 2020

Objective

To describe the safety and efficacy of opicapone, a newly Food and Drug Administration–approved catechol- O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor, as an adjunctive treatment to levodopa/carbidopa in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experiencing off episodes.

Data Sources

A literature search through PubMed and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (January 2000 to October 2020) was conducted using the following search terms: Ongentys, opicapone, COMT inhibitor, Parkinson’s disease, and Parkinson’s.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

Articles selected included those describing preclinical and clinical studies examining the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and/or safety of opicapone.

Data Synthesis

In preclinical trials, opicapone demonstrated marked S-COMT inhibition, despite its short half-life, while maintaining an acceptable safety and efficacy profile. Results from phase 3 clinical trials further supported the safety and efficacy of opicapone as an adjunct to levodopa. In addition, opicapone, at a dose of 50 mg once daily, was shown to be superior to placebo and noninferior to entacapone in reducing time spent in the off state. Adverse effects commonly reported with opicapone include dyskinesias, constipation, hypotension/syncope, increased blood creatine kinase, and decreased weight.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice

Additional medications, such as COMT inhibitors, become necessary adjunctive treatments as the disease progresses. Compared to other COMT inhibitors currently on the US market, opicapone offers the advantage of once-daily dosing.

Conclusion

Opicapone is a safe and effective COMT inhibitor shown to reduce off episodes in patients with PD.
Family Roles, Family Dysfunction, and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Zagefka Hanna , Jones Joshua , Caglar Alara , Girish Ritu , Matos Carly
Published: November 2020

This work focuses on different roles individuals might adopt in their family of origin: hero, scapegoat, lost child, mascot, caretaker, and mastermind. It was explored whether family dysfunction in the family of origin makes it more likely that individuals will take on certain roles, in particular those of “scapegoat” and “lost child.” Further, it was tested whether the problematic roles of scapegoat and lost child are linked to greater depressive symptoms later on during adulthood. Support for these predictions was found in two correlational survey studies of young and older adults retrospectively reporting the roles they assumed in their family of origin ( N = 176 and 366, respectively). Findings are discussed in terms of their implications for family therapy.
Flow Cytometric Assessment of Endothelial and Platelet Microparticles in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Treated With Dabigatran
Authors: Lenart-Migdalska Aleksandra , Drabik Leszek , Kaźnica-Wiatr Magdalena , Tomkiewicz-Pająk Lidia , Podolec Piotr , Olszowska Maria
Published: November 2020

The prothrombotic state in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is related to endothelial injury, the activation of platelets and the coagulation cascade. We evaluated the levels of platelet- (CD42b) and endothelial-derived (CD144) microparticles in the plasma patients with non-valvular AF treated with dabigatran at the time of expected minimum and maximum drug plasma concentrations. Following that, we determined the peak dabigatran plasma concentration (cpeak ). CD42b increased after taking dabigatran (median [IQR] 36.7 [29.4-53.3] vs. 45.6 [32.3-59.5] cells/µL; p = 0.025). The concentration of dabigatran correlated negatively with the post-dabigatran change in CD42b (ΔCD42b, r = -0.47, p = 0.021). In the multivariate model, the independent predictors of ΔCD42b were: cpeak (HR -0.55; with a 95% confidence interval, CI [-0.93, -0.16]; p = 0.007), coronary artery disease (CAD) (HR -0.41; 95% CI [-0.79, -0.02]; p = 0.037) and peripheral artery disease (PAD) (HR 0.42; 95% CI [0.07, 0.74]; p = 0.019). CD144 did not increase after dabigatran administration. These data suggest that low concentrations of dabigatran may be associated with platelet activation. PAD and CAD have distinct effects on CD42b levels during dabigatran treatment.
Effects of concentrated elements on vibro-acoustic characteristics of a circular ring considering both external and internal fluids
Authors: Niu Mingchang , Huang Yuhong , Su Jinpeng , Hua Hongxing
Published: November 2020

This study focuses on the vibro-acoustic characteristics of submerged structures with concentrated elements and filled with fluid. A weak formulation is developed based on the modified variational principle. The accurate energy expressions for both structural and acoustic domains are incorporated into the coupled vibro-acoustic model. With introduced Lagrangian multipliers, a domain partitioning technique is developed to divide the whole acoustic domain into several subdomains. The continuity conditions between adjacent subdomains are further guaranteed by the least square weighted residual method working on the common interfaces. To satisfy the Sommerfeld radiation condition, an artificial boundary with the local absorbing boundary condition is adopted to truncate the infinite external acoustic domain. A water-submerged and air-filled bidimensional circular ring with concentrated elements is used as the research object to validate the accuracy of the proposed approach. The concentrated elements are considered as lumped masses with elastic boundary conditions. The structural displacements and acoustic pressures are expanded by the Fourier series and Chebyshev orthogonal polynomials. Furthermore, the effects of the concentrated elements on the coupled vibro-acoustic responses are carefully investigated, as considering different distribution patterns.
Modal effective electromechanical coupling coefficient of shear-mode piezoceramic sandwich cantilevers with segmented multicore: Experimental and numerical assessments
Authors: Berik Pelin , Benjeddou Ayech
Published: November 2020

Smart sandwich cantilevers with aluminum faces and single and double cores, formed by assembled shear-mode piezoceramic patches with same poling, are experimentally and numerically assessed for the first time. To measure the electromechanical coupling efficiency of such vibrating smart structures, the so-called modal effective electromechanical coupling coefficient is used as a performance indicator. Hence, it is first experimentally analyzed under different electric connections (short circuit, open circuit, series wiring, and parallel wiring) of the patches’ electrodes; then, it is numerically investigated for models with different refinements (equipotential constraints and bonding adhesives) using ABAQUS® three-dimensional finite element simulations. It is found that the experimental modal effective electromechanical coupling coefficient is low for the smart shear-mode piezoceramic single core sandwich but can be increased using multilayer designs, as confirmed by the smart shear-mode piezoceramic double core sandwich. Numerically, it is found that the electric connection has less influence on the modal effective electromechanical coupling coefficient evaluation than the equipotential constraints and adhesives modeling, in particular for the smart shear double core sandwich. The proposed two benchmarks can be used by the research community of smart structures, systems, and devices for validating new shear-mode response-based theories and numerical models or designing related engineering applications, such as shunted damping, energy harvesting, structural health monitoring, resonators, and filters.
A spectral framework for the solution of fractional optimal control and variational problems involving Mittag–Leffler nonsingular kernel
Authors: Dehestani Haniye , Ordokhani Yadollah
Published: November 2020

A new fractional-order Dickson functions are introduced for solving numerically fractional optimal control and variational problems involving Mittag–Leffler nonsingular kernel. The type of fractional derivative in the proposed problems is the Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo fractional derivative. In the process of the method, we use fractional-order Dickson functions and their properties to provide an accurate computational technique for calculating operational matrices, at first. Then, with the help of operational matrices and the Lagrange multiplier method, these problems are reduced to a system of algebraic equations. At last, to demonstrate the effectiveness of the new method, we enforce the proposed algorithm for several examples.
Home Health Care Quality, Its Costs and Implications for Home Health Value-Based Purchasing
Authors: Mukamel Dana B. , Ladd Heather , Nuccio Eugene , Zinn Jacqueline S. , Sorkin Dara H. , Ettner Susan L.
Published: November 2020

The Home Health Value-based Purchasing (HHVBP) demonstration, incorporating a payment formula designed to incentivize both high-quality care and quality improvement, is expected to become a national program after 2022, when the demonstration ends. This study investigated the relationship between costs and several quality dimensions, to inform HHVBP policy. Using Medicare cost reports, OASIS and Home Health Compare data for 7,673 home health agencies nationally, we estimated cost functions with instrumental variables for quality. The estimated net marginal costs varied by composite quality measure, baseline quality, and agency size. For four of the five composite quality measures, the net marginal cost was negative for low-quality agencies, suggesting that quality improvement was cost saving for this agency type. As the magnitude of the net marginal cost is commensurate with the payment incentive planned for HHVBP, it should be considered when designing the incentives for HHVBP, to maximize their effectiveness.
Effects of a Transitional Telehealth Program on Functional Status, Rehospitalization, and Satisfaction With Care in Thai Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Somsiri Vasinee , Asdornwised Usavadee , O’Connor Melissa , Suwanugsorn Saranyou , Chansatitporn Natkamol
Published: November 2020

Limited functional status is a common health problem in patients living with heart failure (HF), which often requires rehospitalization.Home-based transitional telehealth programs (TTPs) focused on health monitoring, education, promotion of self-management, and multidisciplinary team consultation have been shown to improve functional status and satisfaction with care while reducing rehospitalization rates in this population. Nonetheless, these variables and outcomes have yet to be assessed in a Thai patient with HF. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a TTP on functional status, rehospitalization, and satisfaction with care in Thai patients with HF. Eligible participants (N = 146) were randomly assigned to either the control or TTP group. The TTP included in-hospital discharge planning and 6-week telemonitoring via a mobile phone application to provide follow-up home care. Data on the outcome variables were collected at 6 and 8 weeks post-enrollment and analyzed by descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, repeated measures ANOVA, and Z-tests. Functional status and satisfaction with care scores in the TTP group were significantly higher than those of the control group, and rehospitalization rates in the TTP group were significantly lower than those of the control group at 6 and 8 weeks post-enrollment. Thus, the TTP effectively improved functional status, increased satisfaction with care, and reduced rehospitalization rates in Thai patients with HF. TTP implementation could be considered to improve the quality of transitional care in Thailand.
Doomed peripheral intravenous catheters: Bad Outcomes are similar for emergency department and inpatient placed catheters: A retrospective medical record review
Authors: Kache Shawn , Patel Sunny , Chen Nai-Wei , Qu Lihua , Bahl Amit
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

The survivorship of peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) placed in hospitalized patients is shockingly poor and leads to frequent reinsertions. We aimed to evaluate differences in failure rates and IV insertion practices for PIVCs that are placed in the emergency department (ED) compared to those placed in the inpatient (IP) setting.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective electronic medical record review of PIVC survival at a single-site suburban, academic tertiary care referral center with 130,000 annual ED visits and 1100 inpatient beds. Adult patients admitted requiring at least one PIVC were included. The primary outcome was incidence of premature failure of PIVCs. Secondary outcomes included dwell time, completion of therapy, catheter diameter, and site of insertion as they relate to PIVC survival.

Results:

Between January 2018 and July 2019, 90,743 IV catheters were included from 47,272 unique patient encounters in which 35,798 and 54,945 catheters were placed in the ED and IP units, respectively. There was no significant difference in failure rate between the ED and IP PIVCs, with 53.1% of ED PIVCs failing and 53.4% of IP PIVCs failing ( p = 0.35). Mean dwell time for ED PIVCs was 3.4 days compared to a mean of 3.2 days for IP placed PIVCs ( p < 0.001). 48% of ED PIVCs achieved completion of therapy at the first insertion compared to 59% of IP PIVCs ( p < 0.001). The antecubital fossa and forearm had the lowest failure rate of 53% and 50%, respectively, and 22 gauge PIVCs had the highest failure rate of 60.5%.

Conclusion:

PIVCs have similar poor survival rates regardless of ED versus IP location of the insertion. The forearm and antecubital fossa sites should be preferentially used. Smaller diameter (22G) catheters have highest complications and poorest survival regardless of site of insertion. Larger diameter catheters (18 or 20 gauge) may offer improved outcomes.
VarCon: An R Package for Retrieving Neighboring Nucleotides of an SNV
Authors: Ptok Johannes , Theiss Stephan , Schaal Heiner
Published: November 2020

Reporting of a single nucleotide variant (SNV) follows the Sequence Variant Nomenclature ( http://varnomen.hgvs.org/ ), using an unambiguous numbering scheme specific for coding and noncoding DNA. However, the corresponding sequence neighborhood of a given SNV, which is required to assess its impact on splicing regulation, is not easily accessible from this nomenclature. Providing fast and easy access to this neighborhood just from a given SNV reference, the novel tool VarCon combines information of the Ensembl human reference genome and the corresponding transcript table for accurate retrieval. VarCon also displays splice site scores (HBond and MaxEnt scores) and HEXplorer profiles of an SNV neighborhood, reflecting position-dependent splice enhancing and silencing properties.