bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Профілактика карієсу зубів у дітей із дитячим церебральним паралічем
Authors: Priymak H. V. , Zoriy I. A. , Bidenko N. V.
Published: December 2020

Резюме. Исследование стоматологического статуса детей с детским церебральным параличом (ДЦП) свидетельствуют о высокой распространенности и интенсивности в них поражений твердых тканей зубов. Цель исследования – разработать комплекс профилактических мероприятий по кариеса у детей с ДЦП и определить его эффективность. Материалы и методы. К исследование было включено 55 детей (средний возраст больных составил (8,4±2,7) лет) со спастическими формами ДЦП, которые были распределены на 2 группы: первая группа (35 больных) – дети с ДЦП, которым применялся разработанный комплекс профилактических мероприятий; вторая (20 детей) – дети с ДЦП, которым предоставлялись исключительно рекомендации относительно оптимального гигиенического ухода за полостью рта. Всем пациентам проведено неврологическое обследование, определены стоматологический статус, исследования биохимических и иммунологических показателей ротовой жидкости. Результаты исследований и их обсуждение. Большинство обследованных детей с ДЦП имели спастические формы, в связи с чем тактика проведения профилактических стоматологических процедур осуществлялась с учетом неврологической симптоматики основного заболевания. Разработан комплекс лечебно-профилактических мероприятий по кариесе зубов у детей с ДЦП, включавший в себя коррекцию выявленных факторов риска, коррекцию и контроль индивидуальной гигиены полости рта, герметизацию или профилактическое покрытие фиссур и слепых лунок зубов и комплекс местных мероприятий, направленных на нормализацию процессов минерализации зубов. Редукция прироста интенсивности кариеса после применения предложенного комплекса через год составляла 53 %, редукция прироста интенсивности кариеса постоянных зубов – 30 %. Выводы. Эффективность предложенного комплекса подтверждалась достоверным улучшением состояния гигиены полости рта, снижением в ротовой жидкости активности кислой и повышением активности щелочной фосфатаз, повышением концентрации секреторного иммуноглобулина А (на 51,1 %, p˂0,01).
CROT (Carnitine O-Octanoyltransferase) Is a Novel Contributing Factor in Vascular Calcification via Promoting Fatty Acid Metabolism and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Okui Takehito , Iwashita Masaya , Rogers Maximillian A. , Halu Arda , Atkins Samantha K. , Kuraoka Shiori , Abdelhamid Ilyes , Higashi Hideyuki , Ramsaroop Ashisha , Aikawa Masanori , Singh Sasha A. , Aikawa Elena
Published: December 2020

Objective:

Vascular calcification is a critical pathology associated with increased cardiovascular event risk, but there are no Food and Drug Administration-approved anticalcific therapies. We hypothesized and validated that an unbiased screening approach would identify novel mediators of human vascular calcification.

Approach and Results:

We performed an unbiased quantitative proteomics and pathway network analysis that identified increased CROT (carnitine O-octanoyltransferase) in calcifying primary human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Additionally, human carotid artery atherosclerotic plaques contained increased immunoreactive CROT near calcified regions.
CROT
siRNA reduced fibrocalcific response in calcifying SMCs. In agreement, histidine 327 to alanine point mutation inactivated human CROT fatty acid metabolism enzymatic activity and suppressed SMC calcification.
CROT
siRNA suppressed type 1 collagen secretion, and restored mitochondrial proteome alterations, and suppressed mitochondrial fragmentation in calcifying SMCs. Lipidomics analysis of SMCs incubated with
CROT
siRNA revealed increased eicosapentaenoic acid, a vascular calcification inhibitor. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated
Crot
deficiency in LDL (low-density lipoprotein) receptor-deficient mice reduced aortic and carotid artery calcification without altering bone density or liver and plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations.

Conclusions:

CROT is a novel contributing factor in vascular calcification via promoting fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction, as such CROT inhibition has strong potential as an antifibrocalcific therapy.
New stomatocysts discovered in Sphagnum peatlands, central China

Authors: BAI XUE , PIĄTEK JOLANTA , WOŁOWSKI KONRAD , BU ZHAOJUN , CHEN XU
Published: December 2020

Chrysophyte stomatocysts have been studied widely in temperate and arctic regions, while they are rarely investigated in tropical and subtropical areas. The subtropical mountainous region in central China is one of the Global 200 conservation priority ecoregions, due to its high biodiversity. There are some patches of pristine peatlands developed in lowlands of this region, while little knowledge is available on algal distribution in this high biodiversity region. Twenty-four stomatocysts were identified and described in this paper following International Statospore Working Group (ISWG) guidelines and illustrated by SEM micrographs, with eighteen previously described stomatocysts and six new stomatocysts. This is the first comprehensive investigation of stomatocysts in subtropical montane peatlands in central China, which can improve our knowledge on the richness and distribution of stomatocysts in the subtropical region.
A new Planothidium species (Achnanthidiaceae, Bacillariophyceae) from Xingu Ria, Amazon River basin, Brazil

Authors: MORAIS KRYSNA S. , COSTA LÍVIA F. , BICUDO CARLOS E. DE M. , ECTOR LUC , WETZEL CARLOS E.
Published: December 2020

A new Planothidium species was found in sediment samples (~4,000 yr BP) from the Xingu Ria (Xingu River), Brazilian Amazon. The new species morphology was analyzed using light and scanning electron microscopy. Planothidium xinguense sp. nov., is mainly characterized by its elliptical, slightly asymmetrical valves, with strongly marked short rostrate ends in the small specimens, while long and strongly rostrate apices are observable in the larger valves. The taxon belongs to the group of species bearing a cavum on the rapheless valves around the name “Planothidium rostratum sensu lato”. Morphology and ecology of the new species is compared with that of morphologically related taxa. Information of core chronology and the co-occurrence of other diatom species in the sample is also provided.
Maxillaria purpureo-nigra (Orchidaceae: Maxillariinae), a new species from Southwestern Ecuador belonging to Maxillaria sect. Rufescens

Authors: ROMERO BOSCO JAVIER ZAMBRANO , CARNEVALI GERMÁN , SOLANO RODOLFO
Published: December 2020

Maxillaria purpureo-nigra Zambrano, Carnevali & Solano, a new species recently collected in Southwestern Ecuador is described and illustrated. Information concerning its distribution, habitat, phenology, and conservation status is provided. The new taxon is a member of Maxillaria sect. Rufescens, and it is compared with morphologically similar species such as M. culebrica, M. dressleriana, M. hedwigiae, and M. richii. However, we consider that it is more similar to M. prunina, from which it differs by its deep purple flowers, with oblong-elliptic sepals, oblong-lanceolate petals with acute apex, and a lip with an oblong-ovate mid-lobe suffused with dark-purple at the center, including the callus. We also provide a key to the Ecuadorean species of M. sect. Rufescens.
Thelypteris sylva-nipponica, a new allotetraploid species in the Parathelypteris group (Thelypteridaceae)

Authors: EBIHARA ATSUSHI , NAKATO NARUMI , OHI-TOMA TETSUO , IWATSUKI KUNIO
Published: December 2020

A broad-leaved form of Thelypteris nipponica, usually called “var. borealis”, was identified as an allotetraploid originated from hybridization between two diploid species T. nipponica and T. musashiensis based on chromosome number, plastid rbcL sequence and nuclear gapCp “short” sequence. We found that the original material of Thelypteris nipponica var. borealis morphologically corresponds not to the plant widely known as “var. borealis” but to diploid T. nipponica. Therefore, we described the tetraploid distributed in Japan and China as a new species, Thelypteris sylva-nipponica.
Shear Wave Elastography Combined with Thyroid Imaging Report and Data System for Risk Stratification of Thyroid Nodule Malignant Tumor
Authors: Wang Xiaoyun , Zhao Suhong, , Zhao Weihua , Zhao Xianhua
Published: December 2020

Benign and malignant thyroid cancer diagnosis is crucial. Our study intends to evaluate the role of shear wave elastography (SWE) and thyroid imaging report and data system (TI-RADS) in diagnosing the benign and malignant thyroid nodules. 100 thyroid nodules patients were recruited
and evaluated by SWE and TI-RADS before fine needle biopsy and/or surgery. The maximum elastic index (Emax), mean elasticity index of thyroid nodules (Emean), minimum elastic index (Emin) and elastic ratio (ER) was measured and compared between different imaging. Ultrasound diagnosis showed
solid nodules with significant hypoechoic, unclear boundary, and microcalcification. TI-RADS value was measured based on suspected ultrasound features. Combination of SWE and TI-RADS was performed. Among the 100 nodules, 38 were benign (38.0%), 62 were malignant (62.0%), and malignant nodules
had significantly elevated SWE and TI-RADS compared with benign nodules (P < 0.001). The optimal SWE threshold for Emax was 51.95 kPa, with a sensitivity of 81.44% and specificity of 83.19%. There were two methods for combining SWE and TI-RADS. One was sequential detection, with
a specificity of 95.80%, positive similarity ratio of 18.16 and PPV of 96.73%; the other was parallel detection method with a sensitivity of 94.85%, negative similarity ratio of 0.07 and PPV of 90.00%. Our results suggest that combination of SWE and TI-RADS might be applied to identify benign
and malignant thyroid cancers.
Nine Markers to Predict Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease for a Chinese Diabetic Population
Authors: Li Jiandun , Yang Dingyu , Chen Ting , Li Tao , Jiang Peng , Zheng Xichuan , Jiang Fusong
Published: December 2020

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) increases the possibility to suffer from liver or cardiovascular disease. Although hepatic biopsy is well acknowledged as the standard diagnosis, it is difficult to implement because of its intrusiveness and cost concerns.
Moreover, overweight people or diabetic patients are always NAFLD-positive, but not absolute. Therefore, to distinguish whether a diabetic case has NAFLD via nonintrusive indicators is of great significance for further interventions. Objective: With 8499 diabetic patients hosted by Shanghai
Sixth People’s Hospital, we try to rank the impacts of multiple routine indicators (features) on NAFLD, and further predict NAFLD within this diabetic population. Methods: We first rank dozens of related features according to their contributions in NAFLD prediction, and then we
prune several trivial features to simplify the prediction. Additionally, three classification algorithms are considered and compared, e.g., C4.5, Naïve Bayes and Random Forest. Results: The experiment shows that Random Forest outperforms the rest (accuracy 85.1%, recall 90.98%
and AUC 0.631). Conclusions: We find that the top nine markers together can effectively tell NAFLD out of this diabetic population. They are triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), insulin (INS), hbA1C, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), age, total
cholesterol (TC) and duration.
Application of Multislice Spiral CT in Diagnosis of Ankle Joint Sports Injury
Authors: Hui Qiuli
Published: December 2020

In recent years, with the continuous improvement of medical treatment at home and abroad, computerized tomography (CT) technology has developed rapidly. The market competition at home and abroad is becoming increasingly fierce. The manufacturing cost of CT machines is highly valued
by manufacturers. Reducing the manufacturing costs of CT machines is of great significance to medical equipment companies. The CT host is composed of a fixed control system and a rotation control system. Based on the analysis of the existing CT host system structure, this paper designs and
implements a set of low-cost asynchronous variable-frequency rotation control systems based on the unchanged control interface of the existing main rotation servo control system, improving the market competitiveness of the product. Based on the constant structure of the rotating machine of
the CT machine, the simulation analysis of asynchronous variable frequency control is carried out. A set of asynchronous variable frequency control design schemes and multi-stage speed curve control methods compatible with the original system structure are obtained. The verification and analysis
of the functions of acceleration and deceleration control, rotation positioning, fault protection, electromagnetic radiation and other functions at the highest speed meet the system’s main performance requirements, such as acceleration and deceleration time at the highest speed, positioning
accuracy, and speed stability. Through internal system verification, testing and clinical verification, the control system designed in this paper meets the design requirements. According to experimental data, the system is fully compatible with a running accuracy of 0.3%. The main performance
indicators such as acceleration time and positioning accuracy have been improved. The acceleration time from static acceleration to the maximum speed of 0.39 seconds per revolution increases from 21 seconds to 19.9 seconds, and the positioning accuracy was improved from 0.3° to 0.24°.
Finally, this study explores the diagnostic value of multislice spiral CT (MSCT) in ankle trauma.
Clinical Analysis of Alveolar Bone Changes After Chronic Periodontitis Based on Cone Beam CT (CBCT)
Authors: Han Zhenghua
Published: December 2020

In the diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases, imaging examination is a more important auxiliary method. Among them, the application of digital X-ray examination is the most common. However, because the image information provided by this technology is a two-dimensional model, it is
difficult to obtain a comprehensive image, so there is a missed diagnosis. With the development of imaging technology, cone-beam CT (CBCT) is widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases. This is a non-invasive imaging examination. The diagnosis effect is achieved by cone-beam
computed tomography or volume tomography. It has less radiation and low cost. Clear imaging and high spatial resolution. This study compared the diagnostic effect of cone-beam CT and traditional X-ray examination in diseases related to oral medicine to observe the diagnostic superiority of
cone-beam CT. In this study, we can know that 30 patients with periapical periodontal disease have been treated by this technique, and the detection accuracy rate is 100.00%. The damage of the apical root of the patient’s tooth is completely displayed in the image. The measurement results
of the bone defect around the tooth are accurate and space and the location image is presented in front of the doctor, so the detection accuracy of this technology is high. The study found that cone beam CT is effective in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in oral medicine, and can clearly
show the three-dimensional structure of oral tissue, which is convenient for physicians to observe the shape of the disease and improve the accuracy of disease diagnosis.
The Classification and Segmentation of Fetal Anatomies Ultrasound Image: A Survey
Authors: Song Chunlin , Gao Tao , Wang Hong , Sudirman Sud , Zhang Wei , Zhu Haogang
Published: December 2020

Ultrasound imaging processing technology has been used in obstetric observation of the fetus and diagnosis of fetal diseases for more than half a century. It contains certain advantages and unique challenges which has been developed rapidly. From the perspective of ultrasound image analysis, at the very beginning, it is essential to determine fetal survival, gestational age and so on. Currently, the fetal anatomies ultrasound image analysis approaches have been studies and it has become an indispensable diagnostic tool for diagnosing fetal abnormalities, in order to gain more insight into the ongoing development of the fetus. Presently, it is the time to review previous approaches systematically in this field and to predict the directions of the future. Thus, this article reviews state-of-art approaches with the basic ideas, theories, pros and cons of ultrasound image technique for whole fetus with other anatomies. First of all, it summarizes the current pending problems and introduces the popular image processing methods, such as classification, segmentation etc. After that, the advantages and disadvantages in existing approaches as well as new research ideas are briefly discussed. Finally, the challenges and future trend are discussed.
The Effect of an Enhanced Recovery Program on Elective Right Hemicolectomies for Crohn’s Disease vs. Colon Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Croasdale David R. , Su Emily M. , Olutola Olatoye E. , Polito Caroline P. , Ata Ashar , Keenan Megan , Valerian Brian T. , David Chismark A. , Canete Jonathan J. , Lee Edward C.
Published: December 2020

Background

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are widely employed in colorectal surgery, successful in reducing postoperative morbidities and hospital length of stay (LOS). However, ERAS effects on the inflammatory bowel disease population remain unclear. This study examines the postoperative course of both Crohn’s disease (CD) and colon cancer (CC) patients after elective right hemicolectomies and compares the effectiveness of ERAS protocol.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with CD and CC undergoing elective right hemicolectomies and ileocecectomies from January 2014 through June 2016 (pre-ERAS) and January 2017 through April 2019 (post-ERAS) from a single tertiary care center. Patient demographics and perioperative variables were examined, including prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI), hospital LOS, and 30-day readmission.

Results

98 CC patients and 91 CD patients met the inclusion criteria. The pre-ERAS CC and post-ERAS CC cohorts were significantly different: post-ERAS had fewer patients with congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and had higher albumin levels. The pre-ERAS CC cohort had significantly longer operative durations and higher rates of concomitant procedures than the post-ERAS CC cohort. Both patients with CC and CD had a reduction in LOS with implementation of ERAS, decreasing by 2.24 days ( P = .002) and 1.21 days ( P = .038), respectively. There was a reduction in rates of organ space infections with CD (pre .132, post .00, P = .007). There was a trend towards an increased rate of PPOI with CD (Pre .079, Post .226, P = .062).

Discussion

The ERAS protocol significantly reduced LOS for both groups, without increasing 30-day readmission rates or other morbidities.
How to Choose the Right Partners in Cross-Sector Partnership in Emerging Countries? A Political Embeddedness Perspective
Authors: Chen Jiawen , Zhang Qian , Liu Linlin
Published: December 2020

In emerging countries such as China where the government is gradually withdrawing from involvement in social affairs, firms face dilemmas around relational risks of partnering with different forms of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Affiliated NGOs (those with close relationships with government) are more likely to sabotage the social partnership through misconduct, and are also capable of higher standards of collaborative social performance compared with independent NGOs (those with few such relationships). This study proposes that firms’ political embeddedness helps mitigate relational risks in cross-sector partner selection, and finds that politically connected firms are more likely to partner with affiliated NGOs than with independent NGOs in China. This effect is more pronounced for private firms that are less socially oriented or are located in regions with less-developed formal institutions and social trust. Our findings highlight relational risks relevant to cross-sector partner selection literature and offer important insights into how relational risks can be reduced in cross-sector partner selection in emerging countries.
Public Health Perspective on UK-identified Victims of Modern Slavery
Authors: Bird Sheila
Published: December 2020

Links between identified-victims, which occur if escape of one has led to rescue of others (as cluster of victims in single location or controlled-individuals across a network of locations), have implications for how the totality of victims of modern slavery is estimated. Information from identified-victims can help to identify densely or dangerously trafficked-routes. Vulnerability of victims is not ended by their liberation: evidence-based healthcare and other support protocols are needed to assist recovery and resilience. The evidence-base for national protocols would be enhanced if over half the identified-victims agreed to join a research-led cohort by which morbidity and mortality could be monitored; location notified if the participant was again in extremis; with DNA-sampling offered as means to re-unite trafficked family-members.
Effects of brief training on mental health provider’s knowledge of working with youth at risk of suicide in Guatemala
Authors: Alonzo Dana , Popescu Marciana , Zubaroglu – Ioannides Pinar
Published: December 2020

Background:

Resources for mental healthcare are lacking in Guatemala, yet rates of mental illness and suicide are quite high. Mental healthcare providers often lack the knowledge needed to effectively work with young at-risk of suicide. To address this gap, we developed a training program for mental health professionals focused on increasing knowledge and understanding of engaging and working with youth at risk of suicide and present its acceptability and preliminary effectiveness.

Methods:

Mental health providers ( N = 17) from a low SES community participated in the training, Formacion CUIDAR (Comunidades Unidos para Individuales De Alto Riesgo; CARE Training; Communities United for Individuals at High Risk). Mixed methods were used to explore outcomes including, self-reported knowledge and understanding of warning signs; risk and protective factors; effective risk assessment; and, techniques for working with at-risk youth.

Results:

Findings indicate that the training was effective at increasing all targeted domains of knowledge ( t = 2.46, p < .05, Cohen’s d = .56). Acceptability was also rated as high.

Conclusion:

Scarcity of mental health specialists and lack of training on suicide assessment and management have resulted in inadequate resources for at-risk youth in need of mental health services in Guatemala. Results of our study demonstrate that our training is an acceptable, effective program for practicing mental health providers to address their lack of specialized training on how to work with individuals at risk of suicide. Further examination of the training in a larger RCT is required to attain more robust indictors of effectiveness and to assess long-term impact.
Perspectives of community members on homeless people with mental illness in Nsawam, Ghana
Authors: Abekah-Carter Kwamina , Oti George Ofosu
Published: December 2020

Background:

Homelessness among people with mental illness has grown to become a common phenomenon in many developed and developing countries. Just like in any other country, the living conditions of homeless people with mental illness in Ghana are unwholesome. Despite the increased population of these vulnerable individuals on the streets, not much is known about the perspectives of the general public towards this phenomenon in Ghana.

Aim:

This research was conducted to explore the perspectives of community members on homeless people with mental illness. The main study objectives were (a) to find out the impacts of the presence of persons with mental illness on the streets and (b) to ascertain the reasons accounting for homelessness among persons with mental illness.

Method:

Utilizing a qualitative research design, twenty community members were sampled from selected suburbs in Nsawam and interviewed with the use of a semi-structured interview guide. The audio data gathered from the interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Results:

Majority of the participants asserted that homeless people with mental illness had no access to good food, shelter, and health care. They further stated that some homeless people with mental illness perpetrated physical and sexual violence against the residents. Moreover, the participants believed that persons with mental illness remained on the streets due to neglect by their family members, and limited access to psychiatric services.

Conclusion:

This paper concludes by recommending to government to make mental health services accessible and affordable to homeless persons with mental illness nationwide.
Flaunting dissonance: The queering of narrative and gender boundaries in Patrick White’s The Aunt’s Story
Authors: Graham-Smith Greg
Published: December 2020

The Twyborn Affair (1979) is generally regarded as Patrick White’s covert “coming out” novel, followed by his frank “confession” in his autobiography, Flaws in the Glass (1981). However, this article explores how even an earlier work such as The Aunt’s Story (1977/1948), from the Nobel laureate’s modernist phase, may be seen as a pre-text for the gay self, whereby the author stages incomplete representations of his own subaltern position in the characters he “becomes” in his writing. Through a series of textual feints, his persona is disseminated in the form of polyvalent alternative selves which belie any possibility for recuperation of a stable, authentic selfhood. White thereby refuses the univocal inscription of subjectivity upon which sexual hegemony is predicated. What I aim to do in this article is to extend the particularities of the novel’s writing strategies (found in the Jardin Exotique section, for example, which functions as a Foucauldian heterotopic space) into the province of gender. In doing so, I will show how the gay author, through the central character, Theodora Goodman’s protean identities and the deployment of competing narrative epistemologies, can fabricate alternative subject positions. These attest not only to the artificial technologies of gender constitution, but also function as remnants of White’s own divided status, brought about by his dissonant subaltern position in the borderlands of representation.
Trans-poetics in Hiromi Goto’s novels
Authors: Liu Zhen
Published: December 2020

“Trans-” ideas — such as transgender, transnation, translation, and transculture — are being redefined in current research, and their full potential as critical categories is coming into view. Stryker, Currah, and Moore propose, for instance, that “transgender” should be seen not only as a descriptive term for identity, but as a valuable tool for dismantling the violence of the binary system and transcending traditional paradigm. In this article, I explore the possibilities of the prefix “trans” as a tool to dismantle discriminatory binary oppositions in Japanese Canadian writer Hiromi Goto’s novels. I argue that Goto creates transing spaces for her inbetweeners, or monsters. By claiming territory and affirming the value of liminal spaces for outcasts and misfits, those regarded as aliens or monsters can finally be at ease and at home. I also propose that the many dysfunctional families described in Goto’s novels are not only immigrant but transnational families that have to deal with transcultural politics to understand each other. Throughout my reading of the novels, the spatial-temporal dimensions of trans-ideas are stressed and demonstrated.
Oral Microbiota Composition Predicts Early Childhood Caries Onset
Authors: Grier A. , Myers J.A. , O’Connor T.G. , Quivey R.G. , Gill S.R. , Kopycka-Kedzierawski D.T.
Published: December 2020

As the most common chronic disease in preschool children in the United States, early childhood caries (ECC) has a profound impact on a child’s quality of life, represents a tremendous human and economic burden to society, and disproportionately affects those living in poverty. Caries risk assessment (CRA) is a critical component of ECC management, yet the accuracy, consistency, reproducibility, and longitudinal validation of the available risk assessment techniques are lacking. Molecular and microbial biomarkers represent a potential source for accurate and reliable dental caries risk and onset. Next-generation nucleotide-sequencing technology has made it feasible to profile the composition of the oral microbiota. In the present study, 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was applied to saliva samples that were collected at 6-mo intervals for 24 mo from a subset of 56 initially caries-free children from an ongoing cohort of 189 children, aged 1 to 3 y, over the 2-y study period; 36 children developed ECC and 20 remained caries free. Analyses from machine learning models of microbiota composition, across the study period, distinguished between affected and nonaffected groups at the time of their initial study visits with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.71 and discriminated ECC-converted from healthy controls at the visit immediately preceding ECC diagnosis with an AUC of 0.89, as assessed by nested cross-validation. Rothia mucilaginosa, Streptococcus sp., and Veillonella parvula were selected as important discriminatory features in all models and represent biomarkers of risk for ECC onset. These findings indicate that oral microbiota as profiled by high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing is predictive of ECC onset.
Ablation of Pyrophosphate Regulators Promotes Periodontal Regeneration
Authors: Nagasaki A. , Nagasaki K. , Chu E.Y. , Kear B.D. , Tadesse W.D. , Ferebee S.E. , Li L. , Foster B.L. , Somerman M.J.
Published: December 2020

Biomineralization is regulated by inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi), a potent physiological inhibitor of hydroxyapatite crystal growth. Progressive ankylosis protein (ANK) and ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) act to increase local extracellular levels of PPi, inhibiting mineralization. The periodontal complex includes 2 mineralized tissues, cementum and alveolar bone (AB), both essential for tooth attachment. Previous studies demonstrated that loss of function of ANK or ENPP1 (reducing PPi) resulted in increased cementum formation, suggesting PPi metabolism may be a target for periodontal regenerative therapies. To compare the effects of genetic ablation of Ank, Enpp1, and both factors concurrently on cementum and AB regeneration, mandibular fenestration defects were created in Ank knockout ( Ank KO), Enpp1 mutant ( Enpp1asj/asj), and double KO (dKO) mice. Genetic ablation of Ank, Enpp1, or both factors increased cementum regeneration compared to controls at postoperative days (PODs) 15 and 30 ( Ank KO: 8-fold, 3-fold; Enpp1asj/asj: 7-fold, 3-fold; dKO: 11-fold, 4-fold, respectively) associated with increased fluorochrome labeling and expression of mineralized tissue markers, dentin matrix protein 1 ( Dmp1/DMP1), osteopontin ( Spp1/OPN), and bone sialoprotein ( Ibsp/BSP). Furthermore, dKO mice featured increased cementum thickness compared to single KOs at POD15 and Ank KO at POD30. No differences were noted in AB volume between genotypes, but osteoblast/osteocyte markers were increased in all KOs, partially mineralized osteoid volume was increased in dKO versus controls at POD15 (3-fold), and mineral density was decreased in Enpp1asj/asj and dKOs at POD30 (6% and 9%, respectively). Increased numbers of osteoclasts were present in regenerated AB of all KOs versus controls. These preclinical studies suggest PPi modulation as a potential and novel approach for cementum regeneration, particularly targeting ENPP1 and/or ANK. Differences in cementum and AB regeneration in response to reduced PPi conditions highlight the need to consider tissue-specific responses in strategies targeting regeneration of the entire periodontal complex.
Digital unionism as a renewal strategy? Social media use by trade union confederations
Authors: Carneiro Bia , Costa Hermes Augusto
Published: December 2020

Traditional actors such as trade unions are inevitably challenged by digital technologies, not only from the perspective of labor relations, but also in relation to outreach and communications strategies. In fact, as online and offline realities become increasingly intertwined, the presence of organized labor institutions within the Internet’s current networked environment is unavoidable. This article debates digital trade unionism as a strategy for trade union renewal, particularly the implications of using social media platforms to connect and interact with a broader audience beyond the labor movement. Through a comprehensive comparative analysis of the Facebook pages of six trade union confederations from Brazil, Canada, Portugal, and the UK, we find that despite the possibilities for horizontal dialogue enabled by the new digital communication and information technologies, trade union confederations maintain an outdated ‘one-way’ model of communication, hindering opportunities to reach and engage with both union and non-union actors.
The effect of slurries on lapping performance of fixed abrasive pad for Si3N4 ceramics
Authors: Zhankui Wang , Minghua Pang , Mingchao Liang , Jianguo Yao , Lijie Ma , Jianxiu Su
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a series of experiments were carried out to explore the effect of slurry pH on materials removal rate (MRR) and surface quality in lapping of Si3N4 ceramics wafers with fixed abrasive pad (FAP) using different slurries with different pH. Then, the scanning electron microscope was employed to detect the microtopography and abrade smooth of FAP for exploring the effect of slurries pH on self-conditioning of pad. Experimental results demonstrated that the roughness of wafers increase with the increasing of slurry pH value. The surface of wafers is the best when the pH = 1 and the worst When the pH = 13. The MRR decreases firstly and then decreases with the increasing of the pH. The MRR reaches the lowest when slurry pH = 7, and reaches the highest when slurry pH = 13. These results further suggest that the soften layer of SiO2 could be formed due to the reactions between water and materials on wafer surface, which facilitates increasing material remove rate and improving the surface quality. The hydrogen ion and triethanolamine in slurry could react with the copper in fixed abrasive pad, which also could enhance the materials remove rate and affect the surface quality.
A spacer fabric-based three-dimensional patterning method with two-colored jacquard systems
Authors: Li Xinxin , Tian Meiling , Liu Yanping , Li Ya
Published: December 2020

To generate three-dimensional (3D) patterned spacer structures with non-continuous jacquard appearance in two colors, such as the yarn-cutting style, this paper attempts to propose a novel 3D patterning method based on the single jacquard technique. Two sets of jacquard threads are spaced apart and threaded in split bars as two patterning systems with separate colors. Then, for independent patterns, each single loop should be able to be selectively observable on patterned layers and hidden in the spacer layer. Cases of continuous jacquard loops and zero-loop ones in both course and wale directions are to be solved based on the characteristic of one-wale left offset. Besides, by differing the moment when offset occurs, jacquard threads are transferred from stitching on both layers to a single or zero layer, thus enabling one to hide jacquard loops in non-patterning areas. This approach theoretically brings new patterning possibilities to 3D spacer structures with the single jacquard technique.
The Development Discourse during Socialist Romania in Visual Representations of the Urban Area
Authors: Ilovan Oana-Ramona
Published: December 2020

This article proposes another way of looking at how urban Romania was built in socialism, little explored: through official images. The main research question considered the official visual discourse of the Romanian state on urban territorial identities reflected in picture postcards, during the socialist period (1948-1989). Thus, the aim of this research is to expose and discuss the political hegemonic discourse as ubiquitous in these visual representations of the Romanian cities. The research objectives focused on identifying elements that supported the idea of a visual discourse that is coherent and resonates with the Romanian Communist Party’s propaganda by analyzing how images in picture postcards of the urban area were constructed. This visual imagery was interpreted through visual analysis in relation to the political discourse of the period. Results showed that the self-legitimation discourse of the Romanian Communist Party set the norm in representations of urban Romania in picture postcards.
Coordinated optimization control of shield machine based on dynamic fuzzy neural network direct inverse control
Authors: Liu Xuanyu , Wang Wentao , Wang Yudong , Shao Cheng , Cong Qiumei
Published: December 2020

During shield machine tunneling, the earth pressure in the sealed cabin must be kept balanced to ensure construction safety. As there is a strong nonlinear coupling relationship among the tunneling parameters, it is difficult to control the balance between the amount of soil entered and the amount discharged in the sealed cabin. So, the control effect of excavation face stability is poor. For this purpose, a coordinated optimization control method of shield machine based on dynamic fuzzy neural network (D-FNN) direct inverse control is proposed. The cutter head torque, advance speed, thrust, screw conveyor speed and earth pressure difference in the sealed cabin are selected as inputs, and the D-FNN control model of the control parameters is established, whose output are screw conveyor speed and advance speed at the next moment. The error reduction rate method is introduced to trim and identify the network structure to optimize the control model. On this basis, an optimal control system for earth pressure balance (EPB) of shield machine is established based on the direct inverse control method. The simulation results show that the method can optimize the control parameters coordinately according to the changes of the construction environment, effectively reduce the earth pressure fluctuations during shield tunneling, and can better control the stability of the excavation surface.
In-Office Corticosteroid Placement in the Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Wu Derek B. , Schneider Alexander L. , Welch Kevin C.
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

Corticosteroids represent one of the mainstays of medical management of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in both locally acting topical and systemic derivations. The application of topical corticosteroids is limited by a variety of factors including patient compliance, positioning, and nasal anatomy. Systemic corticosteroids confer a risk of medical complication that restricts their ability to be used repeatedly. The objective of this publication is to review the evolution of the in-office intranasal placement of corticosteroids in the management of CRS. The efficacy, outcomes, and safety of a variety of corticosteroid-containing devices meant to be placed in an office setting are reviewed.

Methods:

Pertinent literature was reviewed and summarized beginning with the earliest reports of direct intralesional injection of corticosteroids up through manufactured modern-day bioresorbable implants that contain corticosteroids.

Results:

The utilization of in-office placement of corticosteroid-containing material and implants has rapidly evolved since the concept was introduced, particularly in the last decade. Modern-day corticosteroid-eluting implants are reliably placed in the office, yield results across a range of objective and subjective outcomes, may decrease the need for revision endoscopic sinus surgery, and have a favorable safety profile.

Conclusions:

In-office placement of corticosteroid-containing stents are a viable treatment option for select patients, particularly those wishing to avoid revision surgery, and should be considered an important adjunct for treatment of refractory CRS in an otolaryngologist’s armamentarium.
From #MeToo to #TimesUp: Identifying Next Steps in Sexual Harassment Research in the Organizational Sciences
Authors: Chawla Nitya , Gabriel Allison S. , O’Leary Kelly Anne , Rosen Christopher C.
Published: December 2020

Organizational scholarship on workplace sexual harassment has been dormant in recent decades. Yet, the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements—which have shed critical light on experiences of sexual harassment in organizations—suggests that renewed scholarly attention on this topic is both crucial and warranted. In the current commentary, we provide recommendations for ways that scholars can revitalize attention to this topic, extending both scholarly and practitioner understanding of this phenomenon. In addition, we encourage scholars to begin expanding the conceptualization of sexual harassment to also encompass more subtle forms of harassment. Critically, broadening our scholarly knowledge of workplace sexual harassment can inform organizational policies and procedures aimed toward reducing its prevalence and impact.
Browsing with Alexa: Interrogating the impact of voice assistants as web interfaces
Authors: Natale Simone , Cooke Henry
Published: December 2020

Voice assistants such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant have recently been the subject of lively debates in regard to issues such as artificial intelligence, surveillance, gender stereotypes, and privacy. Less attention, however, has been given to the fact that voice assistants are also web interfaces that might impact on how the web is accessed, understood and employed by users. This article aims to advance work in this context by identifying a range of issues that should spark additional reflections and discussions within communication and media studies and related fields. In particular, the article focuses on three key issues that have to do with long-standing discussions about the social and political impact of the internet: the role of web platforms in shaping information access, the relationship between production and consumption online, and the role of affect in informing engagement with web resources. Considering these issues in regard to voice assistants not only helps contextualize these technologies within existing debates in communication and media studies, but also highlights that voice assistants pose novel questions to internet research, challenging assumptions of what the web looks like as speech becomes one of the key ways to access resources and information online.
Gentrification and the racialization of space
Authors: Zimmer Tyler J.
Published: December 2020

It is not uncommon for activists to use the language of colonization or occupation to describe the social dynamics at work in cities undergoing gentrification. Should these claims be regarded as outrageously exaggerated if not outright false? Or are they apt descriptions of the conditions on the ground in countless cities undergoing profound economic, political and demographic changes? In what follows, I argue that these claims are both legible and persuasive when viewed against the backdrop of racialized urban space.
The effects of surgery on plasma vitamin C concentrations and cognitive function: a protocol for a prospective, observational study
Authors: Travica Nikolaj , Ried Karin , Hudson Irene , Pipingas Andrew , Scholey Andrew , Sali Avni
Published: December 2020

Background:

Post-operative cognitive function has recently become an area of focus for researchers. The most commonly reported perioperative neurocognitive disorders include delirium and longer-lasting post-operative cognitive dysfunctions. The contributing pathophysiology to these complications remains unclear. A number of studies have systematically revealed a significant post-operative plasma vitamin C depletion. Recent insights have also exhibited a link between plasma vitamin C and numerous biological roles in brain function, with deficiencies potentially compromising cognitive function.

Aim:

The present prospective, observational study will investigate whether there is a possible link between post-operative plasma vitamin C depletion and cognitive dysfunction.

Methods:

The cohort will consist of surgical patients, between the ages of 65 and 85 years, undergoing hip replacement surgery or a control group not exposed to surgical trauma. Participants will have their plasma vitamin C concentrations tested alongside a battery of computer-based cognitive assessments and paper and pen based cognitive tests. Further assessments will include dietary nutritional intake, serum vitamin B12 concentrations, cardiovascular biomarkers, wound healing, sleep quality, pain, mood and inflammatory cytokines. Participants will be tested at baseline (1–2 weeks prior to surgery) and subsequent testing sessions will be performed within 1 week, 4–6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months following surgery.

Conclusions:

Findings from this observational study will provide insight into whether there is a concomitant depletion in post-operative plasma vitamin C concentrations and cognition function. Extrapolated results may prompt future, extensive randomized controlled trials to assess whether vitamin C supplementation can alleviate or even prevent post-operative cognitive complications.
(Re)defining mindful eating into mindful eating behaviour to advance scientific enquiry
Authors: Mantzios Michail
Published: December 2020

Background:

Mindful eating has exceeded two decades of scientific enquiry but defining mindful eating has proven to be quite challenging.

Aim:

The inability to clearly define mindful eating led to variations in the description in academic and clinical literature, different psychometric tools and the development of a field that is lacking the preciseness that is needed to advance mindful eating – and the associated interventions – onto a level that is simple to comprehend and implement in practice.

Methods:

Drawing from traditional and contemporary mindfulness and mindful eating literature, this manuscript will attempt to define and describe mindful eating in the context of eating behaviours.

Results:

The review of the literature has resulted in challenging areas around the main principles that should be included in defining the term mindful eating, and highlights the distinction between mindfulness and mindful eating, as well as behaviour and decision making within the context of mindful eating.

Conclusion:

In a field that is lacking transparency and methodological rigour, mindful eating behaviour is detailed as a new beginning in conducting precise experimental research and evidence-based interventions for clinical and non-clinical use.
A Systematic Review of Multiple Terminologies for ICT in Government: A Mesh of Concentric and Overlapping Circles
Authors: Rawat Pragati
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the current article is to identify the frequently used terms for the field of study that deals with the information and communication technology usage in the government and explore the difference and relationship, if any, between these terms. This field of study is inundated with old and new terminologies that lack clarity of usage leading to opportunistic usage, confusion, and impacting accumulation of knowledge. A three-stage search was followed to: (1) identify key terms used to refer to the field of study; (2) identify top ranked journals across social science, computer, and business management that publish in this field; and (3) identify the most frequently used terms in these select journals. The seven terms thus identified are smart government, e-government, e-governance, digital government, open government, e-democracy, and e-participation. The origin, definitions, and models of these terms is further explored, and their relationship is illustrated in diagrams of concentric and overlapping circles. The current study is a step toward developing a stable and dependable vocabulary that may benefit scholars in operationalizing the terms and practitioners in policy implementation and assessing policy effectiveness.