bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Possible Role of Sclerostin in the Pathogenesis of Tympanosclerosis
Authors: Huang Yu , Wang Xiansong , Wu Fashuai , Lu Yuqing , Liang Gengtian , Liu Aiguo
Published: January 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate sclerostin (SOST) expression in a rat model of experimental tympanosclerosis (TS) and its possible role in the formation of TS. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four SD rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: experimental group (n = 17) and normal group (n = 17). The left tympanic cavities in the experimental group were inoculated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The changes of tympanic membranes were examined and recorded under otoendoscope. Haematoxylin-eosin staining was adopted to detect the morphological changes in the tympanic membrane and middle ear mucosa. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were used to observe the expression of SOST, Wnt3a, β-catenin, and P-ERK1/2. Results: In the experimental group, sclerotic lesions were observed in 54.5% ears in the end of 6 weeks. Morphological changes such as mucosa incrassation, inflammatory cells infiltration, fibrous tissue proliferation, and interstitial tissue incrassation prominently appeared in the tympanic membrane and middle ear mucosa. SOST protein was mainly distributed in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells and gland cells, the expression of which increased significantly in the calcified experimental ears. In addition, expression levels of Wnt3a, β-catenin, and P-ERK1/2 increased significantly in the calcified group too. Conclusion: The upregulated expression level of SOST may be involved in the formation of TS, first, through the pro-phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in the inflammatory stage, and then through the enhancement of Wnt3a in the osteogenic stage.
Wells Syndrome as a Rare Cause of Unilateral Ptosis
Authors: Janssen Caroline , Lauwers Noémie , Leysen Inge
Published: January 2021

We present a case of a woman with a swollen upper eyelid in ptosis, conjunctival nodules, and chemosis present for a couple of weeks. She did not respond to therapy for hordeolum or allergy. A biopsy followed by histopathological examination showed a large infiltration of eosinophilic granulocytes and flame figures, so the diagnosis of Wells syndrome was made. Oral methylprednisolone in high dose was necessary, and tapering was slow because of frequent bouts of relapse. After 3 months, the swelling and hard feeling of the eyelid disappeared, but a slight ptosis remained. Eyelid swelling and eosinophilia recurred 18 months after resolution of the first episode.
Spontaneous Regression of Palmar Warts after Suffering from Diffuse Contact Dermatitis against Alkyl Bromide
Authors: Egawa Gyohei , Honda Tetsuya , Kabashima Kenji
Published: January 2021

Contact immunotherapy with several sensitizing chemicals such as diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) have been used for the treatment of recalcitrant or multiple warts. Here, we report a case of multiple verrucae vulgaris (VV) on the palm which spontaneously resolved after the development of systemic contact dermatitis against alkyl bromide. We considered that our case accidentally mimics contact immunotherapy against multiple VV. VV sometimes regress spontaneously, which may be triggered by accidental contact dermatitis, as shown in our case.
Hemichorea Neglect after Stroke
Authors: Aiba Yosuke , Sakakibara Ryuji , Ogata Tsuyoshi , Tateno Fuyuki
Published: January 2021

We report a case of a 74-year-old Japanese woman who, after left thalamic infarction, developed right hemichorea and its neglect. This rare finding was associated with ipsi- and contralateral brain perfusion changes, presumably reflecting de-afferentiation within the brain.
Direct Stimulation of Neural Placode and Nerve Roots in Open Myelomeningocele: The Efficacy of Neural Tube Reconstruction
Authors: Ezgu Mehmet Can , Kırık Alparslan , Yasar Soner , Izci Yusuf
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Intraoperative electrophysiological studies are increasingly used in spinal surgery. However, its use in myelomeningocele (MMC) surgery is still not widespread. The aim of this study was to present our experience in neural placode (NP) and nerve root stimulations in newborns with open MMC. Methods: Eight newborns underwent surgical treatment for thoracolumbar and lumbosacral MMCs. Intraoperative neuromonitoring including free-running electromyography and stimulation of NP, nerve roots, and spinal cord were performed in all cases. Stimulation sites and intensities and distal response’s amplitudes and latencies were recorded. Results: Five patients had thoracolumbar and 3 patients had lumbosacral MMC. Two patients had no movements at the lower extremities while the other had some movements. No response on the lower extremities was obtained in only 1 patient. Responses from the nerve root stimulations were more robust and significant than the placode stimulations. Conclusions: It is clear that the NP and nerve roots originating from the placode are mostly functional and should be preserved during the surgery. Intraoperative neuromonitoring and direct stimulation should be performed during the MMC repair in order to obtain a better neurological outcome.
Association of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, and Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
Authors: Kang Jung Yoon , Choi Jae Duck , Cho Jeong Man , Yoo Tag Keun , Park Yeon Won , Lee Jun Ho
Published: January 2021

Introduction: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) have recently been proposed as easily accessible inflammatory biomarkers and as surrogate markers for metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and malignancies, including prostate cancer. However, scant studies have investigated the association of NLR, PLR, and LMR with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: Data from 8,727 middle-aged men who had participated in a health checkup were analyzed. BPH was defined as prostate volume ≥30 mL, International Prostate Symptom Score > 7, and maximal flow rate <15 mL/s. Propensity score matching was considered for 269 men with BPH (cases), and 7,136 men with no BPH (controls), but ultimately, propensity scores were matched at a 2:1 ratio of controls to cases (538 men in the control group and 269 men in the case group). Results: After propensity score matching, age, International Index of Erectile Function-5, testosterone, and number of metabolic syndrome component variables were evenly distributed and did not differ significantly between the groups. After matching, PLR and LMR were not significantly different between the 2 groups. However, NLR was significantly higher in the case group than in the control group (median [interquartile range]: 1.4 [1.1; 1.8] vs. 1.5 [1.2; 1.9]; p = 0.024) after matching. Conclusion: High NLR was significantly associated with the presence of BPH. Our results suggest the possible effect of inflammation on BPH development. A prospective study is needed to investigate the potential role of NLR as a candidate biomarker of BPH.
Impact of Initial Computed Tomography Findings on Management of Atypical Urinary Cytology of the Upper Urinary Tract
Authors: Takemura Kotaro , Kawai Taketo , Sato Yusuke , Miyakawa Jimpei , Taguchi Satoru , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Yamada Yuta , Nakamura Masaki , Yamada Daisuke , Suzuki Motofumi , Nakagawa Tohru , Kume Haruki
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Management of patients with atypical urinary cytology (class III) of the upper urinary tract is often complicated because some patients develop upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Here, we aimed to help define the optimal management of these patients. Methods: We investigated 31 patients who underwent retrograde ureteropyelography (RP) and were diagnosed with atypical findings of upper urinary tract cytology. Results: UTUC was revealed in 17 of 31 patients during the follow-up period of 1 year or longer. Tumor-like lesions and wall thickening in the upper urinary tract on initial computed tomography (CT) were significant predictors of UTUC (p = 0.0002 and p = 0.012, respectively). All 11 patients with tumor-like lesions and 3 of 8 patients with wall thickening on initial CT underwent nephroureterectomy, and UTUC was confirmed histologically. Moreover, 3 of 12 patients with hydronephrosis only or with normal findings later went on to develop UTUC. Repeated RP performed within 6 months from the initial RP was able to distinguish patients with UTUC from those without, even in individuals with normal CT findings. Discussion/Conclusion: Repeated RP based on initial CT findings is recommended in patients with atypical urinary cytology of the upper urinary tract. Nephroureterectomy without repeated RP may be warranted in patients with tumor-like lesions on initial CT findings.
Metabolic Syndrome in Offspring of Parents with Metabolic Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Irakoze Laurent , Manirakiza Astère , Zhang Yunqi , Liu Juncheng , Li Jiayu , Nkengurutse Liliane , Deng Shuhua , Xiao Xiaoqiu
Published: January 2021

Background: The metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a clustering of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases that includes abdominal obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. Objectives: The objective of this study was to reassess the parent-offspring association of MetS since the available findings are still controversial. Methods: The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify relevant articles. All studies comparing MetS status between the offspring of parents with MetS and offspring of parents without MetS were included in the analysis. Results: A total of 9 studies met the inclusion criteria and they were analyzed. Offspring of at least 1 parent with MetS had a higher risk of MetS (OR 3.88, 95% CI 2.58–5.83, p < 0.001). Sons and daughters of fathers with MetS both had a higher risk of MetS (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.70–3.12, p < 0.001, and OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.37–2.18, p < 0.001, respectively). Sons and daughters of mothers with MetS both had a higher risk of MetS (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.37–2.76, p = 0.0002, and OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.54–2.35, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: This meta-analysis showed that there is a higher risk of MetS in the offspring of parents with MetS. However, there was no differential association of MetS according to gender and/or age of the offspring.
Immunmodulation bei autoimmunen interstitiellen Lungenerkrankungen
Authors: Seeliger Benjamin , Prasse Antje
Published: January 2021

Interstitielle Lungenerkrankungen (ILD) im Rahmen einer Autoimmun- oder Systemerkrankung werden zunehmend erkannt, und der Kenntnisstand zu ihrer Pathophysiologie erweitert sich derzeit rapide. Doch das therapeutische Vorgehen stützt sich weiterhin vor allem auf etablierte langwirksame Antirheumatika (DMARD), zu denen – trotz ihrer jahrzehntelangen Anwendungsgeschichte bei zugrunde liegenden Erkrankungen wie rheumatoider Arthritis – vor allem retrospektive Daten vorliegen, um Aufschluss über ihre Auswirkungen auf den Verlauf der ILD zu geben. Randomisierte Studien zur Untersuchung der Auswirkungen von biologischen DMARD sind in den letzten Jahren abgeschlossen worden oder laufen derzeit und bringen so neue Behandlungsoptionen für diese oft erbarmungslos fortschreitenden Erkrankungen hervor. Hier geben wir einen Überblick über die Evidenzlage und die gegenwärtige Anwendungspraxis von synthetischen und biologischen DMARD bei ILD im Zusammenhang mit Autoimmun- und systemischen Erkrankungen.
El problema de la representación de la naturaleza: las entidades naturales dentro los modelos de experimentación
Authors: Márquez Mónica María
Published: January 2021

Los sistemas de experimentación en laboratorio involucran entidades naturales que son estandarizadas aludiendo a su alta transformación, en sucesivos procesos de purificación y selección (Kohler, 1994). Karin Knorr-Cetina (1999) se refiere a entidades homogéneas singulares llegando a constituir unas totalmente diferentes de aquellas entidades naturales. Márquez (2007) describe esto como un proceso de abstracción donde se reduce la complejidad a características elegidas y como consecuencia son representaciones idealizadas que corresponden a caracteres seleccionados y abstraídos del individuo como tal. Son formas estandarizadas de entidades vivas que tienen una función inferencial: desde los datos obtenidos en el individuo estandarizado en condiciones de laboratorio hacia los organismos que están por “fuera del laboratorio” derivándose datos que serán utilizados en las inferencias. Hans Jorg Rheinberger (1997) afirma respecto al problema de la experimentación y respecto a la representación de la naturaleza, que un modelo de representación sucede a otro, en una cadena que nunca llega a referirse a una realidad natural como tal Este articulo expone el problema que existe en la representación de la naturaleza que pretende la ciencia. Se concluye que las inferencias que de las teorías se derivan sobre la realidad estarían restringidas por un modelo de representación que es parte de otro modelo dentro del laboratorio y en este sentido no darían cuenta de una realidad natural como referente.
A isonomia das espécies: uma perspectiva biológico-evolucionista para o biocentrismo
Authors: Almeida Rodrigo Bilieri de
Published: January 2021

O presente trabalho discute sobre teorias de evolução focando na relação entre homens e os demais animais à luz da Filosofia ética prática contemporânea. Busca esclarecer se o antropocentrismo está fundamentado nos conhecimentos da Biologia Evolutiva (primeira hipótese), ou se a racionalidade da Biologia Evolutiva se aproxima do biocentrismo (segunda hipótese). Objetiva-se analisar criticamente as ideias antropocentristas do progresso direcional e da superioridade natural humana a partir da lireratura disponível sobre filosofia ética, antropologia geral, genética, biologia evolutiva, história natural, ecologia e zoologia. Esta pesquisa, com base nos conhecimentos da biologia evolutiva, defende a segunda hipótese: o posicionamento racional técnico-científico sobre o biocentrismo e os direitos dos animais.
“…this Brazilian venture…” A brief biography of Theodosius Dobzhansky before he arrived in Brazil
Authors: DeJong-Lambert William
Published: January 2021

This paper describes life and career of Theodosius Dobzhansky (1900-1975) until he arrived in Brazil in 1943. During his years in Russia, Dobzhansky began his entomology studies and undertook research expeditions to Central Asia to study livestock, which focused on speciation biology. Once he arrived in the United States Dobzhansky began working with Drosophila melanogaster with Thomas Hunt Morgan (1866-1945) at Columbia University. Once Morgan relocated to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Dobzhansky started collaborating with his colleague, Alfred Henry Sturtevant (1891-1970), on studies of a wild cousin of Drosophila melanogaster, Drosophila pseudoobscura. Dobzhansky and Sturtevant’s friendship and collaboration suffered due to several factors, including most importantly, their differing approaches to Drosophila pseudoobscura as influenced by their different conceptions of the purpose of their work. While Sturtevant studied the flies using the same techniques as his studies of the domestic Drosophila melanogaster, Dobzhansky studied Drosophila pseudoobscura in the field considering his broader dictum that “Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution.”
Primeiro Movimento Do Quarteto De Cordas N.3 De Heitor Villa-Lobos: uma correspondência da forma sonata clássica numa conjuntura atonal
Authors: Rocha Regina
Published: January 2021

Este artigo apresenta apontamentos, sobre uma possível interpretação da forma sonata clássica adaptada para um contexto atonal, no primeiro movimento do Quarteto de cordas n. 3 de Heitor Villa-Lobos. No âmbito da música brasileira, Villa-Lobos foi o compositor que mais escreveu quartetos de cordas. No cenário internacional da música do século XX, sua produção está em segundo lugar em termos quantitativos. Todavia, algumas análises mais antigas com base apenas nos parâmetros da música tonal, defendem a ideia de que Villa-Lobos não utilizou a forma sonata em seus quartetos de cordas. No entanto, análises mais recentes demonstram a habilidade de Villa-Lobos em adaptar a forma sonata para um contexto não-tonal, assim como fizeram outros compositores vanguardistas. No caso do primeiro movimento do Quarteto de cordas n. 3 é possível notar a manipulação das classes de alturas que demarcam as entradas das seções, em substituição as relações tonais da forma sonata clássica. Sendo assim, torna-se patente a proficiência composicional de Villa-Lobos, ao manusear um dos gêneros mais consagrados da música de câmara europeia (Quarteto de Cordas) e uma das estruturas formais mais significativas da música ocidental (Forma Sonata).
Imaging Markers of Brain Frailty and Outcome in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bu Ning , Khlif Mohamed Salah , Lemmens Robin , Wouters Anke , Fiebach Jochen B. , Chamorro Angel , Ringelstein E. Bernd , Norrving Bo , Laage Rico , Grond Martin , Wilms Guido , Brodtmann Amy , Thijs Vincent
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose:

Functional outcome after stroke may be related to preexisting brain health. Several imaging markers of brain frailty have been described including brain atrophy and markers of small vessel disease. We investigated the association of these imaging markers with functional outcome after acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:

We retrospectively studied patients with acute ischemic stroke enrolled in the AXIS-2 trial (AX200 in Ischemic Stroke Trial), a randomized controlled clinical trial of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor versus placebo. We assessed the ratio of brain parenchymal volume to total intracerebral volumes (ie, the brain parenchymal fraction) and total brain volumes from routine baseline magnetic resonance imaging data obtained within 9 hours of symptom onset using the unified segmentation algorithm in SPM12. Enlarged perivascular spaces, white matter hyperintensities, lacunes, as well as a small vessel disease burden, were rated visually. Functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score) at day 90 were determined. Logistic regression was used to test associations between brain imaging features and functional outcomes.

Results:

We enrolled 259 patients with a mean age of 69±12 years and 46 % were female. Increased brain parenchymal fraction was associated with higher odds of excellent outcome (odds ratio per percent increase, 1.078 [95% CI, 1.008–1.153]). Total brain volumes and small vessel disease burden were not associated with functional outcome. An interaction between brain parenchymal fraction and large vessel occlusion on excellent outcome was not observed.

Conclusions:

Global brain health, as assessed by brain parenchymal fraction on magnetic resonance imaging, is associated with excellent functional outcome after ischemic stroke.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00927836.
Revision of the Australian soldier fly genus Antissella White, 1914, including six new species (Stratiomyidae: Antissinae)
Authors: Lessard Bryan D. , Yeates David K. , Woodley Norman E.
Published: January 2021

Antissella White, 1914 is a small genus of soldier flies endemic to Australia, previously thought to comprise only two described species and suspected to have a role in pollination. Six new species of Antissella are named, described and illustrated herein, and an updated identification key to all known species is provided. The new species include: Antissella alicespringsensis Lessard & Woodley sp.n., Antissella elongata Lessard & Woodley, sp.n., Antissella kalbarriensis Lessard & Woodley sp.n., Antissella nigricentralis Lessard & Woodley sp.n., Antissella ottensorum Lessard & Woodley, sp.n., and Antissella purprasina Lessard & Woodley, sp.n. A lectotype and paralectotype are also selected for Antissella quinquecella (Macquart, 1846). Eight species of Antissella are now recognised from Australia. Three of the new species are known from areas burned by the devastating 2019/2020 Australian summer bushfires. Now that they are formally named and described, the species may be recognised in future bushfire recovery monitoring programs.
Optimization of chromosome doubling treatment for efficient in vivo doubled haploid production in maize
Authors: Kumar Sourbh , Chandel Uttam , Guleria Satish Kumar
Published: January 2021

An investigation to optimize the protocol for application of colchicine for enhancing the doubled haploid production in maize was done. 106 maize genotypes were used as maternal parents, whereas, pollen source involved tropically adopted haploid inducer (TAIL P1 and TAIL hybrid). After the elimination of chromosomes of inducer lines, haploid seeds were obtained from the crosses. Haploid seedlings were treated with three different doses, such as 0.04, 0.06 and 0.08 per cent of colchicines for different durations (8, 12 and 15 hours). The response of various colchicine concentrations applied for different time durations revealed significant differences at P ≤ 0.05 for various parameters viz., per cent plants survivability, stalk colour, the fertility of tassel, silk present/absent, pollen viability, seed set and per cent doubled haploid formation. In maize, colchicine doses of 0.04 per cent for 12 hours and 0.06 per cent for 8 hours, respectively were established as optimum for enhanced doubled haploid production. But among these two, 0.04 per cent for 12 hours was observed to be best dose for doubled haploid production in maize.
New host and distribution records for Buprestidae (Coleoptera) from the state of Morelos, Mexico
Authors: REYES-GONZÁLEZ ROBERTO , TOLEDO-HERNÁNDEZ VÍCTOR HUGO , TORRES-MANJARREZ ANA GABRIELA , FLORES-PALACIOS ALEJANDRO , CORONA-LÓPEZ ANGÉLICA MARÍA
Published: January 2021

New state and host records are provided for 28 species of Buprestidae collected in Morelos, Mexico in the following genera: Acmaeodera Eschscholtz 1829, Actenodes Dejean 1833, Agrilus Curtis 1825, Brachys Dejean 1833, Chrysobothris Eschscholtz 1829, Leiopleura Deyrolle 1864, Lius Deyrolle 1864, Pachyschelus Solier 1833, and Tetragonoschema Thomson 1857.
Species of Astrothrips from China, with one new species and a list of plant associations (Thysanoptera, Panchaetothripinae)
Authors: LI YAJIN , MOUND LAURENCE A. , XIE YANLAN , ZHANG HONGRUI
Published: January 2021

Seven species of the Panchaetothripinae genus Astrothrips are recorded from China, and an illustrated key provided for their identification. One new species is described, A. glanduculus sp.n., and the following three species are newly recorded from China, A. asiaticus, A. globiceps, and A. tumiceps. The male of A. aucubae is described for the first time, and plants from which Astrothrips have been taken are listed.
A new genus of Podoscirtini with one new species from Guangxi, China (Orthoptera: Gryllidae; Podoscirtinae)
Authors: ZHIXIN HE , TAO ZHANG , WEILIANG XIE , LI LIN , LIBIN MA
Published: January 2021

A new species, Pluviam guangxiensis is described from Guangxi Province, China. It is distinct from the known genera and species of Podoscirtinae. Details are provided. Thus, a new genus, with one new species, was established. Supplementary information relating to Xuanwua motuoensis He, 2015, which is very similar is provided.
New genera of Alleculinae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Alleculinae: Alleculini) from the Oriental Region. Part XI—Vietnalia gen. nov.
Authors: NOVÁK VLADIMÍR
Published: January 2021

A new genus of Alleculinae (tribe Alleculini Laporte, 1840, subtribe Alleculina Laporte, 1840), Vietnalia gen. nov. with the species Vietnalia catcatica sp. nov. as a type species from the Oriental Region (Vietnam, Lao Cai Province), is described, illustrated and compared with similar (shape of body) genera Doranalia Novák, 2020 and Nikomenalia Dubrovina, 1975. Vietnalia catcatica gen. nov. and sp. nov. distinctly differs from Doranalia and Nikomenalia species particularly by antennomere 3 approximately as long as antennomere 4 in males and slightly longer than antennomere 4 in females, by ultimate maxillary palpomere widely triangular, transverse, strongly widened apically, female has antenna shorter than half body length, male abdomen has 6 visible ventrites, male ultimate and penultimate abdominal ventrites have impressions, male ultimate abdominal ventrite is excised in middle of apex. Male space between eyes is distinctly wider than in males of Doranalia species.
What Is a Tornado Outbreak?: Perspectives through Time
Authors: Ćwik Paulina , McPherson Renee A. , Brooks Harold E.
Published: January 2021

The term “tornado outbreak” appeared in the meteorological literature in the 1950s and was used to highlight severe weather events with multiple tornadoes. The exact meaning of “tornado outbreak,” however, evolved over the years. Depending on the availability of scientific data, technological advancements, and the intended purpose of these definitions, authors offered a diverse set of approaches to shape the perception and applications of the term “tornado outbreak.” This paper reviews over 200 peer-reviewed publications—by decade—to outline the evolving nature of the “tornado outbreak” definition and to examine the changes in the “tornado outbreak” definition or its perception. A final discussion highlights the importance, limitations, and potential future evolution of what defines a “tornado outbreak.”
Sources of Subseasonal Predictability over CONUS during Boreal Summer
Authors: Krishnamurthy V. , Meixner Jessica , Stefanova Lydia , Wang Jiande , Worthen Denise , Moorthi Shrinivas , Li Bin , Sluka Travis , Stan Cristiana
Published: January 2021

The predictability of the Unified Forecast System (UFS) Coupled Model Prototype 2 developed by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction is assessed for the boreal summer over the continental United States (CONUS). The retrospective forecasts of low-level horizontal wind, precipitation and 2-m temperature for 2011–17 are examined to determine the predictability at subseasonal time scale. Using a data-adaptive method, the leading modes of variability are obtained and identified to be related to El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), intraseasonal oscillation (ISO), and warming trend. In a new approach, the sources of enhanced predictability are identified by examining the forecast errors and correlations in the weekly averages of the leading modes of variability. During the boreal summer, the ISO followed by the trend in UFS are found to provide better predictability in weeks 1–4 compared to the ENSO mode and the total anomaly. The western CONUS seems to have better predictability on weekly time scale in all three modes.
Identifying and Serving Gifted and Talented Students: Are Identification and Services Connected?
Authors: Gubbins E. Jean , Siegle Del , Ottone-Cross Karen , McCoach D. Betsy , Langley Susan Dulong , Callahan Carolyn M. , Brodersen Annalissa V. , Caughey Melanie
Published: January 2021

The importance of alignment between identification processes and program design is widely noted in gifted and talented education literature. We analyzed publicly available district gifted program plans (Grades 3-5) from two states to examine the extent to which district identification practices matched intervention strategies. Our team developed a coding scheme matrix with 133 items for State 1 ( n = 115) and State 2 ( n = 178). The results of this study indicated that, at least in terms of planning, districts in the two states we examined appeared to be aligning identification and programming practices to meet the needs of gifted students identified in mathematics and/or reading/English language arts. In State 1, at least 60% of the districts reported the following intervention strategies in mathematics and reading/English language arts: faster pace of coverage, regular grade-level standards, in-depth coverage, preassessment, above grade-level standards, and expanded grade-level standards. In contrast, State 2 districts reported faster pace of coverage; however, with less commonly utilized interventions, subject-matter identification significantly influenced their usage. Differentiation was the primary learning environment strategy utilized by districts in both states.
Multilateral interactive teaching model for improving foreign language learners’ autonomous learning ability by using multimedia network technology
Authors: Xu Shuyan , Li Xiang , Yang Xianhua
Published: January 2021

With the advent of the information age, multimedia technology and Internet technology have shown diverse characteristics. Our lifestyle has undergone fundamental changes in almost every aspect: network-based computers are used in almost every aspect of social daily life. It has become a means of household information exchange; the number of web-based distance education learners exceeds traditional face-to-face teaching. Therefore, processing power is very important for clever computers to search, analyze, synthesize and exchange information online. In addition to reading and writing, this ability is seen as a new electronic literacy. Those who lack it will be considered illiterate in the near future. Since English has gained the status of a global language, about 85% of the world's electronically stored information is in English, how to inject English learners into electronic culture to ensure the survival of every citizen. The digital age has become the basic task of every educator, especially those who teach English. This paper uses questionnaires and interviews to investigate and analyze the adaptability of college students' English autonomous learning from three aspects: learning concept, learning environment and learning style. The survey results show that students are relatively uncomfortable with English autonomous learning in the multimedia network environment, especially for the online learning environment. On this basis, this paper proposes suggestions for improvement of the current teaching model, in order to help college students to carry out independent learning better.
Promoting Aesthetic Experiences in Science Lessons: A Proposal for Instruction
Authors: Güney Burcu Gülay
Published: January 2021

Science education motivates students to be problem solvers who utilize scientific knowledge for the social problems that they encounter in their lives. However, for better solutions for the problem, just knowledge of scientific concepts would not be enough because students need to approach problems aesthetically also. Understanding social, cultural, and sociological bases of the problem and the values of people who own the problem should be considered in the solution. Therefore, that brings the need for aesthetic experiences in science education as well as cognitive experiences. From the Deweyan approach, an experience is an experience when it is supported by human values. The main characteristics of aesthetic experiences are that they transform abstract concepts into living ideas because the process makes people make sense of the parts, link to the whole, and perceive the world from different perspectives. Because they are not an absolute must, artworks are essential elements for the aesthetic experiences. With the use of artworks in instruction, students can have aesthetic experiences by transforming abstract concepts into living ideas and solve social problems more effectively. The study aims to connect the cognitive and aesthetic aspects of science and promote aesthetic experiences by using an artwork. A framework based on Deweyan aesthetic was used for pedagogical suggestions. With the use of the framework both cognitive and aesthetic perspectives were emphasized for social problems, and the concept of electrostatics and the interaction between science and society is underlined for the instruction.
From urban landscape to national culture: Russia’s conspicuous religious simulacra and enduring, if fragile, secularity
Authors: Agadjanian Alexander
Published: January 2021

This article considers the place religion holds in post-Soviet Russian society, and most importantly, the case of the dominant Russian Orthodoxy. It shows that the gap between low everyday religiosity and high public profile of religion is the key to a specific Russian version of secularity. How religion’s spectacular appropriation of physical and social space, up to the imaginative space of the national culture as such, does not cancel the strong counterweight of deeply ingrained secular cultural arrangements – either genetically linked to some European variations or specifically related to (post)communist experience.
Research on dynamic prediction model of surface subsidence in mining areas with thick unconsolidated layers
Authors: Chi Shenshen , Wang Lei , Yu Xuexiang , Lv Weicai , Fang Xinjian
Published: January 2021

In order to improve the accuracy of the surface dynamic prediction model in mining areas with thick unconsolidated layers and improve Knothe time function, the influence coefficient was firstly changed into the coefficient in exponential form, and the influence coefficient of unconsolidated layer was added. Then, a subsidence basin prediction model for mining under thick unconsolidated layers was established. Next, the model was combined with the improved Knothe function, thus constructing a new mining subsidence prediction model. The new subsidence prediction model was applied in 1414 (1) working face in Huainan mining area. The results showed that the integrated model could better reflect the subsidence process, and the prediction values and the measured values agreed well.
Are We There Yet? An Emerging Research Agenda for College Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Brady Michael P.
Published: January 2021

There is a distinct need for a research agenda that drives research, practice, and policy for college students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This paper provides a brief summary of the rapid growth of college programs in the absence of any organized research agenda. A research framework and agenda is proposed, and a brief summary of each of the papers in the special issue is provided.
Innovative Continuous Wound Irrigation Approach for Postoperative Treatment of Masticator Space Abscess
Authors: Hsieh Hui-Shan , Lee Chih-Yuan , Chang Geng-He , Chang Pey-Jium , Wang Yun-Ting , Tsai Ming-Shao
Published: January 2021

This is a case of an innovative method of continuous irrigation approach for wound care following surgical drainage. Compared with the traditional labor-intensive irrigation, this novel handy method is not only reducing the workload but is also less time-consuming and inexpensive. This continuous irrigation approach is an efficient alternative approach for wound care in deep infection of the head and neck.
Expanding Our Resources: Including Community in the Resource-Based View of the Firm
Authors: Gibson Cristina B. , Gibson Stephen C. , Webster Quinn
Published: January 2021

We apply insights from organizational behavior, psychology, and sociology to make the case that the community in which a firm is embedded is a valuable, rare, inimitable, and nonsubstitutable resource that holds potential as a source of sustained competitive advantage. First, we review several key principles of the resource-based view (RBV) and show how they apply to community as a strategic resource, incorporating prior work that simultaneously addresses communities and RBV. Next, we juxtapose pairs of firms in the same industries, comparing those that have embraced this strategy with those that have not, demonstrating the superior sustainability of the firms that consider community as a strategic resource. Finally, we conclude with thoughts as to a future research agenda that allows for an expansion of the concept of resources to further the development of RBV, the firms that apply it, and the communities in which they are embedded. In doing so, we demonstrate how expanding RBV to incorporate the community as strategic resource contributes to managerial theory, research, and practice.
How Worker Centers Organize Low-Wage Workers: An Exploration of Targets and Strategies
Authors: Garrick Jessica
Published: January 2021

In response to the growing absence of unions from the private sector, community-based organizations known as worker centers have emerged as a new front in protecting and organizing workers. Scholars generally argue that worker centers have converged on a model of combining service provision with organizing and advocacy, supported primarily by funding from foundations and government agencies. I draw on interviews conducted with worker center staff, a dataset compiled from their public materials, and secondary research to add to the existing literature and to argue that a clear categorization of worker centers can be derived by attention to their primary workplace strategies. First, worker centers can be meaningfully distinguished by whether they attempt to raise standards in specific industries versus responding to problems in individual workplaces. But they can also be distinguished based on the extent to which they view public policy or winning agreements with employers as the primary route to systemic improvements. These divergences in strategy echo Progressive-era debates about the role for the state in redressing workplace ills. Similar to that era, strategic differences among today’s worker centers are driven less by ideology and more by the distinct structural challenges facing workers in particular political and economic contexts.
Increases in Serious Psychological Distress among Ontario Students between 2013 and 2017: Assessing the Impact of Time Spent on Social Media
Authors: Cook Steven , Hamilton Hayley A. , Montazer Shirin , Sloan Luke , Wickens Christine M. , Cheung Amy , Boak Angela , Turner Nigel E. , Mann Robert E.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

The objective of the current research was to examine the association between time spent on social media and serious psychological distress between 2013 and 2017, a period when the rates of both were trending upward.

Methods:

The current study analyzed population-based data from 3 waves of the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey ( N = 15,398). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the association between time spent on social media and serious psychological distress controlling for theoretically relevant covariates. Interactions were tested to assess whether the association changed over time.

Results:

The prevalence of serious psychological distress increased from 10.9% in 2013 to 16.8% in 2017 concomitantly with substantial increases in social media usage, especially at the highest levels. In the multivariate context, we found a significant interaction between social media use and the survey year which indicates that the association between time spent on social media and psychological distress has decreased from 2013 to 2017.

Conclusion:

Although both social media use and psychological distress increased between 2013 and 2017, the interaction between these variables indicates that the strength of this association has decreased over time. This finding suggests that the higher rate of heavy social media use in 2017 compared to 2013 is not actually associated with the higher rate of serious psychological distress during the same time period. From a diffusion of innovation perspective, it is possible that more recent adopters of social media may be less prone to psychological distress. More research is needed to understand the complex and evolving association between social media use and psychological distress. Researchers attempting to isolate the factors associated with the recent increases in psychological distress could benefit from broadening their investigation to factors beyond time spent on social media.
Treatment Patterns With Antipsychotics in Long-Term Care Patients With Parkinson’s Disease Psychosis
Authors: Rashid Nazia , Shim Andrew , Andes Sherry , Quale Sonja , Abler Victor
Published: January 2021

This study assessed treatment change patterns in Parkinson’s disease psychosis (PDP) residents receiving antipsychotic (AP) therapies in U.S. long-term care (LTC) facilities. Residents with PDP in LTC between 01/01/13 and 06/30/16 were identified with ≥1 claim of psychosis, hallucinations, or delusions after PD diagnosis. Treatment patterns were evaluated during the 12 months post index. We identified 864 PDP residents: 408 (47.2%) on AP therapy and 456 (52.8%) on no AP therapy. A total of 335 residents (82.1%) continued, 13 (3.2%) discontinued, 11 (2.7%) switched, and 49 (12.0%) augmented (used ≥2 APs) their index AP therapy. Based on the multivariate regression analysis, younger age, male gender, anemia, anxiolytic use or anxiety, sedatives/hypnotic use, bladder disorders including urinary tract infections, coronary conditions, diabetes, hypertension, and dementia were associated with a higher likelihood of treatment change. Understanding the factors associated with treatment change may inform ways to improve management of PDP in the U.S. LTC setting.
When Following the Rules Is Bad for Wellbeing: The Effects of Gendered Rules in the Australian Construction Industry
Authors: Galea Natalie , Powell Abigail , Salignac Fanny , Chappell Louise , Loosemore Martin
Published: January 2021

The construction industry is known to be highly masculinised and to have work practices detrimental to employees’ wellbeing. Drawing on feminist institutional theory and a rapid ethnographic approach in two construction multinationals in Australia, we examine the relationship between the gendered nature of construction and workplace wellbeing for professional women and men employed in the industry. The findings reveal that adhering to the gendered ‘rules in use’ in the construction industry is negatively associated with wellbeing and is usually endured in silence. We also identify the ways in which the gendered rules have different effects on the wellbeing of men and women. We conclude that the construction industry is characterised by a set of ‘greedy’ gendered institutions that are inextricably linked to workplace wellbeing for both men and women and that these rules must be broken to improve worker wellbeing.
Postsecondary Adult Learner Motivation: An Analysis of Credentialing Patterns and Decision Making Within Higher Education Programs
Authors: Gardner Alexander C. , Maietta Heather N. , Gardner Philip D. , Perkins Niki
Published: January 2021

This study sought to fill a gap in the literature by considering the role of motivation in post-secondary aspirations of adult learners, specifically full versus part-time status, previous level of educational attainment, years of work experience, and the selection of an academic program. The data from this study came from adult students ages 25 and older at 8 institutions in the Midwest. Statistical analysis determined there were significant differences in gender motivation, level of education is predictive of type of educational credential being pursued, and type of adult learner motivation influences which degree, academic program, and enrollment status is pursued by adult learners. Furthermore, this research revealed as adults acquire more work experience, their postsecondary educational aspirations are more likely motivated by extrinsic factors. These findings have meaningful implications for linking motivation with continuance and graduation from collegiate programs for which this paper identifies and discusses in the context of postsecondary education.
Empowering Families to Address Suicide in Rural Colombia
Authors: Torres Ayse , Juhnke Gerald , Canfield Brian , Gomez-Escudero Andrea , Ramírez Andrés
Published: January 2021

Suicidal behavior is a major public health problem that has devastating effects on families. Relevant suicide risk factor identification is a critical component to developing effective suicide assessments and interventions. Suicide risk factors vary across countries. Thus, the intent of this seminal research was to investigate suicide risk factors relevant to a small and rural region in the South American country of Colombia. The factors identified in the present Delphi study appear relevant in informing the development and expansion of suicide prevention strategies and community-based programs. Educating family members and other frontline community helpers on the identified suicide risk factors can exponentially increase service resources in underserved and unserved communities.
Effect of Patient Demographics on Minimally Important Difference of Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale Among End-Stage Ankle Arthritis Patients
Authors: Sutherland Jason M. , Albanese Carmela Melina , Wing Kevin , Zhang Yixiang Jenny , Younger Alastair , Veljkovic Andrea , Penner Murray
Published: January 2021

Background:

Ankle replacement and ankle arthrodesis are standard treatments for treating end-stage ankle arthritis when conservative treatment fails. Comparing patient-reported outcome scores to the instrument’s minimal important difference (MID) helps physicians and researchers infer whether a meaningful change in health from the patient’s perspective has occurred following treatment. The objective of this study was to estimate the MID of the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale among a cohort of operatively treated end-stage ankle arthritis patients undergoing ankle replacement or arthrodesis.

Methods:

A survey package including the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale was completed by participants preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively. Distribution and anchor-based approaches to calculating the MID were used to estimate the MID of the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale and its 2 domains. The distribution-based approaches used were the small and medium effect size methods, while the mean absolute change method and linear regression method were the anchor-based approaches. Bootstrap sampling was used to obtain the variance of MID estimates. The MID was estimated for sex, age, operative, and baseline health subgroups. The cohort comprised 283 participants, totaling 298 ankles.

Results:

The MID did not vary with sex or operative procedure. Age-based differences in MID values may exist for the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale total score, and MID values were generally smallest among the oldest patients. Patients with the best and worst ankle-related health preoperatively had higher MID values than patients reporting mid-range Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale values preoperatively.

Conclusion:

The best estimate of the MID of the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale total score is 5.81. Our findings indicate that the MID of the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale may not vary by sex or operative subgroups but likely varies by age and preoperative Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale score.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective comparative study.
Using Precision Public Health to Manage Climate Change: Opportunities,
Challenges, and Health Justice
Authors: Johnson Walter G.
Published: January 2021

Amid public health concerns over climate change, “precision public
health” (PPH) is emerging in next generation approaches to practice. These
novel methods promise to augment public health operations by using ever
larger and more robust health datasets combined with new tools for
collecting and analyzing data. Precision strategies to protecting the public
health could more effectively or efficiently address the systemic threats of
climate change, but may also propagate or exacerbate health disparities for
the populations most vulnerable in a changing climate. How PPH interventions
collect and aggregate data, decide what to measure, and analyze data pose
potential issues around privacy, neglecting social determinants of health,
and introducing algorithmic bias into climate responses. Adopting a health
justice framework, guided by broader social and climate justice tenets, can
reveal principles and policy actions which may guide more responsible
implementation of PPH in climate responses.