bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Beliefs and Attitudes Toward Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Among Healthcare Providers in New York City
Authors: Min Moonkyung , Wong Tracy , Akinsulure-Smith Adeyinka M.
Published: November 2021

Given the increase of African immigrants from countries with high female genital cutting (FGC) prevalence, this study explored U.S. healthcare providers’ beliefs and attitudes regarding FGC. A total of 31 professionals who have provided services to FGC-experienced women in New York City were interviewed; data were analyzed using grounded theory. Results indicated that, although a majority of respondents emphasized maintaining a nonjudgmental and open-minded attitude toward clients’ experiences, some only focused on the negative aspects of FGC. Also, multifaceted efforts by providers to understand the cultural meanings of FGC and resolve their own cultural dissonance were identified. The implications for practice were discussed.
The impact of early versus late tocilizumab administration in patients with cytokine release syndrome secondary to immune effector cell therapy
Authors: Peaytt Rachel , Parsons Laura Beth , Siler Darby , Matthews Rachel , Li Belinda , Bell David , Bachier Carlos , Pantin Jeremy , Berdeja Jesus , Flinn Ian , Donnellan William , Battiwalla Minoo
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Cytokine release syndrome is a life-threatening hyper-inflammatory state induced by immune effector cell therapy. Anti-interleukin 6-(IL-6) therapy, such as tocilizumab, is the standard treatment for cytokine release syndrome since it reverses symptoms without compromising immune effector cell therapy efficacy. Glucocorticoids are reserved for refractory or severe cytokine release syndrome due to concern for attenuating antitumor activity. Optimizing the timing of tocilizumab could avoid glucocorticoid use and improve outcomes. This study assesses tocilizumab timing on patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilization.

Methods

This is a retrospective single-institution analysis of 28 patients who received tocilizumab for cytokine release syndrome secondary to immune effector cell therapy. Patients were categorized into two groups: Early Tocilizumab (within 24 h) or Late Tocilizumab groups (more than 24 h) from fever onset. The composite primary endpoint was glucocorticoid use, intensive care unit admission, or inpatient mortality. Secondary outcomes include comparing the various presentations of cytokine release syndrome, need for vasopressors, length of stay, rates of neurotoxicity, and C-reactive protein and ferritin trends.

Results

The Early Tocilizumab group presented with more rapid fever onset (35 vs.113 h, P = 0.017) and higher maximum cytokine release syndrome grade (Median, Grade 2 vs. Grade 1, P = 0.025). Additionally, the Early Tocilizumab group required more doses of tocilizumab (Median, 2 vs. 1, P = 0.037). Despite the difference in cytokine release syndrome presentation, the primary composite endpoint was not statistically different between groups.

Conclusion

Earlier onset of fever appears to be associated with more severe, progressive cytokine release syndrome requiring multiple doses of anti-interleukin-6 therapy. Prompt and aggressive tocilizumab treatment could be protective against the negative consequences of cytokine release syndrome.
A rare case of spontaneous expulsive suprachoroidal haemorrhage in a glaucomatous eye treated with topical alpha-adrenergic agonist
Authors: Pillai Manju R , Kasthuribai Hariharasubramanian , Ishrath Deeba , Gnanavelu Subathra
Published: November 2021

Spontaneous expulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhage is a rare ocular condition, which usually occurs after sudden decompression of the eyewall. Most of the cases of expulsive hemorrhage reported had a predisposing glaucoma with the combination of corneal pathology. We are reporting a case of spontaneous expulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhage in a glaucoma patient probably due to perpetuated inflammatory reaction and frequent eye rubbing induced by allergic reaction to topical alpha adrenergic agonist in a compromised cornea.
Weather as a possible risk factor for massive ocular decompression retinopathy: A case report
Authors: Sabal Barbara , Romanowska-Dixon Bożena , Karska-Basta Izabella
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Numerous studies described a link between weather phenomena and an increased incidence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. We report a case of ocular decompression retinopathy with massive premacular haemorrhage secondary to acute intraocular pressure reduction in a patient with acute primary angle closure. At the time of admission, a change in weather conditions occurred with high temperatures and a strong Foehn wind known locally as halny.

Case description

A healthy 56-year-old man with acute primary angle closure who developed severe ocular decompression retinopathy with large prefoveal subhyaloid haemorrhage after pharmacological treatment was admitted to the hospital. The patient was elected for surgery and underwent vitrectomy with improvement of visual acuity to the baseline vision.

Conclusions

This report suggests that, in addition to an abrupt reduction in intraocular pressure as a causative factor, massive ocular decompression retinopathy may be significantly influenced also by environmental factors such as halny.
Frequency of Parathyroid Hormone Assessment in the Evaluation of Hypercalcemia. A Comparison Between Patients With and Without a History of Malignancy in a 20-year Dataset of 20,954 Patients
Authors: Sheehan Michael T , Li Ya-Huei , Doi Suhail A , Onitilo Adedayo A
Published: November 2021

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a prior diagnosis of malignancy affected the assessment of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in hypercalcemic patients and whether the rate of this assessment changed over time.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was designed that included adult patients with hypercalcemia with and without a history of malignancy between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2019 in the Marshfield Clinic Health System (MCHS). The overall and annual rates of PTH assessment in each group was determined. In patients with a PTH assessment, duration of time and number of elevated serum calcium levels between the first documentation of hypercalcemia and the assessment of PTH were recorded, as was the degree of hypercalcemia.

Results:

Approximately a quarter (23%) of the patients in each group had a PTH assessment. The rate of PTH assessment initially increased over time but later declined significantly. Although a more severe degree of hypercalcemia predicted a greater probability of PTH assessment, the rate of assessment declined with all degrees of hypercalcemia in the last 5 years. While most patients who had a PTH assessed did so within a few months of the first documentation of hypercalcemia, less than half (40%) had a delay of more than 2 years before a PTH level was drawn.

Conclusion:

This lack of appropriate and timely assessment may have significant health consequences in both groups of patients. Better education of providers about the appropriate and timely assessment of PTH in the evaluation of hypercalcemia is urgently needed.
Exploring the Market of Soccer Player Registrations: An Empirical Analysis of the Difference Between Transfer Fees and Estimated Players’ Inherent Value
Authors: Campa Domenico
Published: November 2021

This paper examines the determinants of the difference between soccer player registration transfer fees and the estimated inherent value of transferred players. The results show that this difference increases for players competing in the same league as that of the acquiring team, players acquired during winter transfer windows, defender registrations, and in the presence of player registration swaps. It decreases for midfielder registrations and for registrations purchased the year immediately before the expiration of players’ contracts. Finally, the difference between registration transfer fees and estimated players’ inherent value increases up to when players are 28 years old and decreases afterwards.
Nano-on-micro approach for fabricating ternary metal oxy-hydroxide–based flexible supercapacitors
Authors: Bajpai Pragati , Srivastava Alok K , Kumar Alok
Published: November 2021

In the present work, we unveil a facile and effective method to directly grow Ni–Mo–Co oxy-hydroxide–based 3-dimensional hierarchical nanostructures on carbon microfibers (nano-on-micro) by using a facile hydrothermal synthesis route. Further, the electrochemical activity for directly grown fiber electrode as well as electrode formed by slurry coating of active material formed after hydrothermal reaction has been investigated. In this study, the metal ratios (nickel and cobalt) were selected to cover the wide spectrum of the concentration in order to obtain the optimum concentration for the best electrochemical performance. Electrochemical analysis of these ternary metal oxy-hydroxide–based active materials on the carbon microfiber shows significantly high electrochemical activity with a specific capacitance of 519 Fg−1 in hydrothermally activated sample and 890 Fg−1 in a slurry coated sample (at 1 Ag−1). This simple technique provides a novel method to fabricate high energy-storage devices with the advantage of being lighter and flexible and can be easily integrated for various flexible electronic applications potential applications including e-textiles, personal electronics, military apparel devices, and antimicrobial and biomedical textiles.
Prophylactic Acupuncture Treatment during Chemotherapy in Patients with Breast Cancer – Results of a Qualitative Study nested in a Randomized Pragmatic Trial
Authors: Stöckigt Dr. med. Barbara , Kirschbaum Barbara , Carstensen Dr. med. Martin , Witt Dr. med. Claudia M. , Brinkhaus Dr. med. Benno
Published: November 2021

Background:

In a randomized controlled trial, compared with standard care alone in breast cancer, acupuncture as a prophylactic treatment did not show better quality of life or fewer side effects of chemotherapy (NCT01727362 [clinicaltrials.gov]). The aim of the qualitative part of this mixed methods study was to better understand the subjective perspectives of the patients regarding quality of life during chemotherapy and the perceived effects of acupuncture.

Methods:

In a nested retrospective qualitative study, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 5 responders and 5 non-responders (defined by the outcome of the primary parameter FACT-B) who were randomly selected from both study arms. The interviews were digitally recorded, pseudonymized, transcribed, and then deductively and inductively analyzed according to Qualitative Content Analysis using MAXQDA® software.

Results:

A total of 20 patients were included in the qualitative part of the study. In both groups, most women stated that their quality of life was surprisingly better than what they had expected before starting the chemotherapy. All patients of the acupuncture group experienced the acupuncture treatments as relaxing and beneficial, mentioning a friendly setting, and empathic attitude of the therapist. Most of these patients stated that the acupuncture treatment reduced chemotherapy-induced side effects. The patients reported that acupuncture was supportive for coping with the disease in a salutogenic way. For all patients, finding strategies to cope with life-threatening cancer and the side effects of chemotherapy was essential, for example, keeping a positive attitude toward life, selecting social contacts, and staying active as much as possible.

Conclusions:

Patients in the acupuncture group reported positive effects on psychological and physical well-being after receiving the study intervention. For all patients, having coping strategies for cancer seemed to be more important than reducing side effects. Therefore, further studies should focus more on coping strategies and reducing acute side effects.
Individuals Transforming Criminal Justice
Authors: Ellison Brian
Published: November 2021

This photo series explores the origins of how misconceptions such as one-dimensional expressionand emotional inaccessibility have come to be. I specifically explore the complexity of African American masculinity for young Black boys and Black men.
How Ingrained Racism Became Invisible
Authors: Combs Barbara Harris
Published: November 2021

I interrogate the killing of Ahmaud Arbery using critical race legal scholar Cheryl Harris’ view of whiteness as property. I offer a counter-narrative telling of events to explain how ideological principles rooted in the concept of whiteness as property continues to undergird the agreed upon practices in neighborhoods like Satilla Shores – where Arbery was pursued, shot, and killed by white residents of the development. In doing so, I explore how these principles and practices breed and foster a form of racialized injustice that gets routinely rationalized and excused through a set of normalizations, which privilege whiteness and white logic.
Socioeconomic Patterns Among Sexual Minorities
Authors: Spiker R , Reczek Rin
Published: November 2021

Previous research has often overlooked socioeconomic diversity among LGB people even though socioeconomic status is deeply intertwined with sexual minority status. Research methods that identify sexual minorities by their relationships do not represent the socioeconomically diverse conditions experienced by LGB people. Better identification methods in survey studies can help create more accurate research and policies that more adequately serve the needs of sexual minority populations and promote equality.
Why Two Reviews are Still not Enough
Authors: Byrd W. Carson
Published: November 2021

An introduction to a mini symposium on Jennifer Hirsch’s and Shamus Khan’s Sexual Citizens: A Landmark Study of Sex, Power, and Assault on Campus
Abortion Bans and College Drop-Outs
Authors: Horwitz Ilana , Matheny Kaylee , Milan Natalie
Published: November 2021

What seems like a resounding victory for pro-life advocates will have an unintended consequence: derailing the educational plans of millions of Americans—women and men.
Effect of particle size of fumed silica on the puncture resistance of fabrics impregnated with shear thickening fluid
Authors: Lu Zhenqian , Yuan Zishun , Qiu Jiawen
Published: November 2021

This paper presents an investigation into the effect of particle size of fumed silica on the puncture resistance of fabric impregnated with shear thickening fluid (STF). Two different types of STF were fabricated from fumed silica nanoparticles with particle sizes of 12 and 40 nm respectively. The effects of the particle size and weight fraction of the fumed silica on the rheological property were studied. STFs impregnated woven fabrics were fabricated and tested for stabbing resistance. STFs made of fumed silica with large particle size have better shear thickening effect. The stabbing resistant performance of STF impregnated fabrics improved notably with the same number of layers of fabric, and STFs impregnated fabric panels also outperform the untreated fabric panels with the same areal density. The results indicated that STFs made of fumed silica with larger particle size is able to fabricate a lighter soft body armor with higher stabbing protection.
Opportunistic perfect preventive maintenance policy in presence of masked data
Authors: Misaii Hasan , Haghighi Firoozeh , Fouladirad Mitra
Published: November 2021

In this paper, the maintenance optimization problem of multi-component system is considered. It is assumed that the exact cause of system failure might be masked. That is, the exact cause of failure is unknown, and we only know that it belongs to a set called mask set. Both opportunistic perfect preventive maintenance (OPPM) and perfect corrective maintenance are considered. Threshold of OPPM and inter-inspection interval are considered as decision parameters which are optimized using long-run cost rate criteria. The applicability of the proposed maintenance policy is investigated using an illustrative example.
Migrant Racialization on Twitter during a border and a pandemic crisis
Authors: Avraamidou Maria , Eftychiou Eftychios
Published: November 2021

This work examines how the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the migration debate on Twitter. Through co-hashtag network analysis, time-frequency and content analysis, it shows that the pandemic was related with positive (humanitarian) and negative (threat) stances about migration. The positive side focused on the need to protect refugees stranded at camps in Greece from COVID-19. The negative focused on the Greek-Turkish land-border crisis (Evros crisis), using COVID-19 to reinforce migrants as racialized others. These findings fit the problematization of positive and negative migrant representations in the Global north as Eurocentric. In the case of camps, refugees fit well within the victim/helpless frame, justifying humanitarianism, this time on health grounds. Regarding the border crisis, refugees also fit the Eurocentric frame of violent/male/inferior other who could spread a deadly virus. Overall, COVID-19 intertwined with migration in Twitter debates, reinforcing the racialized, Eurocentric representational field on migrants from the Global south.
A Novel Trimeric Triterpene From Chisocheton ceramicusMiq.
Authors: Nugroho Alfarius Eko , Okabe Marika , Hirasawa Yusuke , Wong Chin Piow , Kaneda Toshio , Tougan Takahiro , Horii Toshihiro , Morita Hiroshi
Published: November 2021

A novel trimeric triterpene, bismoronic ceramicine (1), was isolated from the bark of Chisocheton ceramicus Miq. The structure was elucidated based on spectroscopic data and chemical correlations. Bismoronic ceramicine (1) showed moderate antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum strain 3D7.
UHPLC-ESI-Orbitrap-HR-MS Analysis of Cyclopeptide Alkaloids From Ziziphus joazeiro
Authors: Corrêa dos Santos Carlos Henrique , Geraldo de Carvalho Mário , Laub Annegret , Franke Katrin , Wessjohann Ludger
Published: November 2021

Ziziphus joazeiro Mart., popularly known as “juazeiro”, is a tree widely found in the northeast of Brazil. It is commonly used as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and analgesic agent. The stem extract exhibited, beside cytotoxic properties, substantial activity against the Gram-negative bacterium Allivibrio fischeri. UHPLC-ESI-Orbitrap-HR-MS analysis of the alkaloidal fraction of the crude methanolic stem extract of this species enabled the detection and putative identification of sixteen cyclopeptide alkaloids (CPAs), including four possibly new structures. According to the MS2 fragmentation analysis, from the sixteen identified CPAs, three possess a type-Ia1, one a type-Ia2, and twelve a type-Ib cyclopeptide alkaloid core. The structures of paliurine-C and -D were supported by NMR data.
Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants Against COVID-19: An In Silico Analysis
Authors: Khuntia Bharat Krushna , Sharma Vandna , Qazi Sahar , Das Soumi , Sharma Shruti , Raza Khalid , Sharma Gautam
Published: November 2021

Even after one and a half years since the outbreak of COVID-19, its complete and effective control is still far from being achieved despite vaccination drives, symptomatic management with available drugs, and wider lockdowns. This has inspired researchers to screen potential phytochemicals from medicinal plants against SARS-CoV-2, adopting a bio-informatics approach. The current study aimed to assess anti-viral activity of the phytochemicals derived from Ayurvedic medicinal plants against SARS-CoV-2 drug targets [3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) and RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp)] using validated in silico methods.3D Structures of 196 phytochemicals from three Ayurvedic plants were retrieved from PubChem and KNApSAcK databases and screened for Absorption Distribution Metabolism Excretion and Toxicity(ADMET) to predict drug-likeness. The phytochemicals were subjected to molecular docking and only three showed promise: Acetovanillonewith a binding affinity of −4.7Kcal/mol with RdRp and −4.1 Kcal/mol with 3CL pro; myrtenol with equivalent values of −4.3 Kcal/mol with RdRP and −3.2 Kcal/mol with 3CLpro; and nimbochalcin with equivalent values of −5.0Kcal/mol with RdRp and −4.9 Kcal/mol with 3CLpro. Molecular dynamics simulation (50ns) analysis was made of 3CLpro and RdRp using Autodock Vina 1.1.2 software and VMD software. After ADMET analysis, 78 phytochemicals were found suitable for molecular docking. Three, namely acetovanillone, myrtenol and nimbochalcin from Picrorhiza kurroa, Azadirachta indica and Cyperus rotundus,respectively,exhibited good binding affinity with 3CLproand RdRp of SARS-CoV-2. Interaction analysis, molecular dynamics simulations and MM-PBSA calculations were executed for two complexes, acetovanillone_RdRp and myrtenol_3CL pro.Acetovanillone_RdRpcomplex did not display any structural change after MD simulation as compared to myrtenol_3CL pro. The overall stability of acetovanillone_6NUR was 154.7 kJ/mol, and for myrtenol_1UJ1 90.5 kJ/mol. In silico analysis revealed that acetovanillone ( Picrorhiza kurroa) and myrtenol ( Cyperus rotundus) possess anti SARS-CoV-2 activity. Further studies are needed to validate their efficacy in biological models.
Clinical and molecular characterization of thyroid cancer when seen as a second malignant neoplasm
Authors: Romanelli Kristen , Wells Justin , Patel Aneeta , Mendonca Torres Maria , Costello John , Jensen Kirk , Vasko Vasyl
Published: November 2021

Background:

Second malignant neoplasms (SMN) are among the most serious long-term adverse health conditions in cancer survivors. The aim of this study was to characterize clinical findings of patients who developed thyroid cancers as SMN, and to examine genomic alterations in thyroid cancer tissue.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of medical records from patients seen for management of thyroid cancer over 10-year period was performed. Clinical and pathologic data were retrieved from their medical charts. Tumor DNA and RNA were extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue and subjected to next-generation sequencing (NGS) using Ion Torrent Oncomine Focus Assay. Microfluidic digital polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) were performed using QIAcuity Digital PCR System to identify BRAFV600E mutations and RET/PTC fusions.

Results:

Sixteen of 620 patients operated for thyroid cancer had history of previously diagnosed malignancy. Eight patients were male and eight patients were female, with a median age at diagnosis of 58.5 years (range, 4–78). Four patients had history of pediatric malignancy (PedCa), and 12 patients had a history of prior malignancy as an adult (AdCa). The latency periods for development of SMN in PedCa and AdCa patients were 10.8 (±5.2) years and 9.5 (±5.2) years, respectively. Histopathology revealed papillary thyroid cancers in 15 cases, and follicular thyroid cancer in 1 case. All tumors were classified as T1 or T2, and there were no patients presenting with metastases at the time of surgery. Genomic alterations were detected in 13/16 (81.2%) tumors including eight gene mutations ( BRAFV600E (N = 4), RAS (N = 2), PI3CA (N = 2) and five gene fusions ( RET/PTC1 (N = 4) and STRN/ALK (N = 1). In patients with PedCa and AdCa, mutations were detected in 1/4 (25%) and 7/12 (58.3%), respectively, p = 0.56; and fusions were detected in 3/4 (75%) and 2/12 (16.6%), respectively, p = 0.06. In patients with and without history of therapeutic irradiation, mutations were detected with the same frequencies (5/10 (50%), and 3/6 (50%), respectively, p = 1.0). Gene fusions were detected in patients with and without history of irradiation in 5/10 (55.5%) and 0/6 (0%), respectively, p = 0.09.

Conclusions:

Monitoring of cancer survivors for thyroid disorders allowed diagnosis of second thyroid cancers at early stages. Second thyroid cancers harbor genomic alterations that are typical for sporadic as well as for radio-induced thyroid cancers.
Citizenship education: A media literacy course taught in Japanese university
Authors: Nguyen Van Thanh
Published: November 2021

This case study documents the effort to prototype a media literacy curriculum based on Herman and Chomsky (2010)'s Propaganda Model as well as the target students’ environment and need analysis. The course is implemented under a Content and Language Integrated Learning program for 30 first-year undergraduate students in Sophia University, Japan. The objective is to develop students’ awareness of issues facing society they live in, along with the capacity to think critically about media information, deliberate in public discourse via expression of individual opinions, and exchange with others. Evaluation study is conducted upon completion of the course to examine whether, or to what extent, that objective is realized, using qualitative method. Results show positive impacts on students’ learning, providing valuable inputs for further iterations of curriculum design in citizenship and media literacy education.
A Multicomponent Health Education Campaign Led by Community Health Workers to Increase Influenza Vaccination among Migrants and Refugees
Authors: Ponce-Gonzalez Ileana Maria , Perez Kathleen , Cheadle Allen D. , Jade Morgan , Iverson Barry , Parchman Michael Leo
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

To evaluate the impact of a Community Health Worker (CHW)-led influenza campaign on knowledge and attitudes about vaccination in Latinx migrant and refugee populations.

Methods:

Twelve online workshops were conducted with 183 participants and 24 CHWs between January 12 and May 12, 2021. Participants were Latinx families living in underserved communities throughout Washington state. The initiative also included radio, animated videos, advertisements, social media, and educational materials.

Results:

Analysis of pre and post workshop surveys from 155 participants showed statistically significant improvements in all questions about the definition of influenza, symptoms, and risks: and in 7 of 9 questions about treatments and vaccines. Analysis of 2 open-ended questions showed increases in words key to understanding influenza, such as “virus,” “illness,” “death,” and “contagious.” There were significant increases in rates of participants identifying vaccination and antibiotics as cures for influenza.

Conclusions:

CHW-led workshops can be an effective way to increase knowledge about influenza and influenza vaccine. Future curriculum should emphasize the difference between viruses and bacteria, and the use of vaccination for prevention as opposed to treatment for illness.
Exploring Health-Related Needs of Elderly People (70+) at Home: A Qualitative Study From Switzerland
Authors: Karma Brunner , Ada-Katrin Busch , Händler-Schuster Daniela
Published: November 2021

Background:

The elderly represents the fastest growing group in our population. Since there is a close relationship between the number of older people and health care expenditure, promoting healthy aging has become an important topic. However, it is essential to understand first the needs of this population in order to create suitable programs and activities.

Methods:

A qualitative design was used in this study to explore the subjective views of elderly people and to learn more about their health-related needs. A total of 12 participants were recruited using a consecutive sampling strategy. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed by employing a summarizing content analysis.

Results:

This study has identified 4 areas of health-related needs: Independence and autonomy, social security, structure in daily life and community and belonging, where all categories are interrelated and interact with one other.

Conclusion:

Focusing more on community-based approaches would support creating a conducive environment. Also, home visits undertaken by a specialized nurse focused on health risks and disabilities could be an adequate approach to support the elderly population in an efficient way and to offer targeted programs and activities.
Finite Element Analysis of Cannulated Screws as Prophylactic Intervention of Hip Fractures
Authors: Rhee Brian , Tommasini Steven M. , Milligan Kenneth , Moulton Julia , Leslie Michael , Wiznia Daniel H.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The frequency of hip fractures, a major cause of morbidity and mortality for geriatric patients, is expected to increase exponentially in the next few decades. The aim of this study is to assess the ability of stainless-steel cannulated screws to reduce the risk of a femoral neck fracture, if placed prophylactically prior to a fall.

Materials and Methods

We created finite element models from computed tomography (CT) scan-based 3D models of a geriatric patient through 3D-image processing and model generation software. We used linear finite element simulations to analyze the effect of cannulated screws in the proximal femur in single-leg stance and lateral fall, which were processed for peak von Mises stresses and element failure.

Findings

Prophylactically placed cannulated screws significantly reduced failure in an osteoporotic proximal femur undergoing lateral fall. Three implanted screws in an inverted triangle formation decreased proximal femoral trabecular failure by 21% and cortical failure by 5%. This reduction in failure was achieved with a 55% decrease in femoral neck failure and 14% in lateral cortex failure.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that cannulated hip screws in an inverted triangle formation may strengthen an osteoporotic proximal femur in the event of a lateral fall. Mechanical testing on cadaveric or composite models is required to validate these results.
Successful Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Antibody Response to Vaccination in MAGT1 Deficiency
Authors: Jalil Maaz , Rowane Marija , Rajan Jayanth , Hostoffer Robert
Published: November 2021

Background

Novel messenger RNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) have been vital in resolving the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Detection of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S) confirms immunogenicity with high sensitivity and specificity. Few recent studies with primary and secondary immunodeficient cohorts present adequate or reduced antibody response. We describe the first reported successful response to anti-SARS-CoV-2 S antibody post-vaccination in magnesium transporter 1 (MAGT1) gene deficiency, more commonly recognized as x-linked immunodeficiency with magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr Virus infection, and neoplasia (XMEN).

Case Presentation

We present a 30-year-old male with selective anti-polysaccharide antibody deficiency, peripheral blood CD5  +  /CD19  +  B-cell predominance (97%), MAGT1 mutation, and reduced CD16  +  CD56  +  natural killer- and/or CD8  +  T-cell receptor, Group 2, Member D expression. His initial immunological evaluation revealed all seronegative post-vaccination antibody titers but clinically adequate response to protein antigens tetanus and diphtheria anti-toxoids. COVID-19 vaccination and associated serology antibody testing was recommended at this office visit. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG antibodies before and after the first BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses, as well as nucleocapsid antibody, were negative. S protein total antibody was reactive after the second dose.

Discussion

Robust immunological sequelae post-COVID-19 vaccination in the general population are well-documented in the recent literature. Few studies have evaluated COVID-19 vaccination antibody response in immunodeficient patients. The majority positive anti-S antibody detection in most primary immunodeficient (PID) patients among the few studies in the literature, such as the present case, support the safety and efficacy of mRNA COVID-19 vaccination in immunodeficient patients, although larger scale studies are needed.

Conclusion

We demonstrate successful vaccination in the PID MAGT1 deficiency in this first reported case of reactive anti-S antibody post-COVID-19 vaccination.
Green Supplier Selection Under Cloud Manufacturing Environment: A Hybrid MCDM Model
Authors: Li Dan-Ping , Xie Li , Cheng Peng-Fei , Zhou Xiang-Hong , Fu Cheng-Xun
Published: November 2021

In the cloud manufacturing environment, the interaction and cooperation between enterprises become more convenient. The most optimal green supplier selection through cloud manufacturing platform can improve the production quality and sustainable development efficiency of enterprises. However, as alternative suppliers are all over the world, there is a risk that the selected supplier is not ideal. Therefore, in this paper, a hybrid supplier selection model based on TODIM method is proposed to choose the optimal green supplier under cloud manufacturing platform. Considering the characteristics of suppliers in the cloud manufacturing environment and green criteria, the comprehensive green supplier evaluation index system is constructed. The creative application of heterogeneous evaluation information including crisp numbers, interval numbers, and probabilistic linguistic values, can express the evaluation information of different subjects comprehensively. In order to consider human judgment and the importance of information provided by raw data, the criteria weights are determined by integrating fuzzy BWM (Best-worst method) weights and objective entropy weights. Then, with the full consideration of decision maker’s risk attitude, the TODIM method is used to process heterogeneous evaluation information and calculate the priority of the green suppliers. The proposed method is novel, and allows multi-subjects to participate in the assessment process and considers the risk attitude of decision-makers in the green supplier selection process. An empirical study of green supplier selection in the cloud manufacturing environment is conducted. Sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis indicate that the proposed selection model for green supplier is reliable and effective.
Translation of Narrative Voice and Reproduction of a Simulated Storytelling Mode
Authors: Wang Yunhong , Zhang Gao
Published: November 2021

Chinese vernacular fiction is characterized by a simulated storytelling mode through which the narrator manipulates narration and facilitates interaction with the reader. There is little research on the representation of this distinctive Chinese narrative mode across languages and cultures. Recently scholars in translation studies have begun to focus on how different types and levels of voice are represented in translated texts. The present article investigates how the overt voice of the simulated storyteller characterizing the Chinese vernacular narrative style is represented in three complete English translations of a Chinese classic entitled Shuihu Zhuan. The article includes a comparative study of how the storyteller-narrator manifests his narrative voice through storytelling formulae and rhetorical narratorial questions and more importantly, on how the storyteller-narrator’s voice has been rendered by different translators. Besides, by relating the reproduction of narrative voice to translatorship, it shows that the professional role and status of each translator influence their strategy-making as to whether, and to what extent, the narrative voice of the source text should be reconstructed.
Investigating the Relationships Between Listening Skills and Genre Competence Through Cognitive Diagnosis Approach
Authors: Chen Huilin , Chen Jinsong
Published: November 2021

Although research on listening skills has been frequently conducted to discover the nature of listening comprehension, there is little study about listening genre competence which is related with knowledge about listening text types. In order to find out whether listening skills and listening genre competence are related, cognitive diagnosis, a quantitative method to disclose finer-grained latent attributes, was adopted in this study. The generalized deterministic inputs, noisy “and” gate (G-DINA) model, which takes attribute compensation and attribute interaction into consideration, was used to carry out cognitive diagnostic analysis. The listening comprehension subtest of Band 4 of Test for English Majors (TEM) which is a large scale English proficiency test for English Majors in China was used as the proficiency test for homogenizing the participants. Three genres in the subtest, dialog, lecture, and news, were investigated. The 2,285 subjects were sophomore English major college students and also test-takers of the same TEM4 examination. They were chosen by random sampling from the nationwide test population in China. The study analyzed three types of relationships between listening skills and genre competence. By analyzing how mastery of certain listening text genres goes with mastery of listening skills according to latent class distribution, the coexistence relationship was discovered. By comparing the average number of skills/genres mastered when the number of genres/skills mastered increases through One-Way ANOVA, compensatory and contributory relationships were revealed. The study also found that the subjects mastering Lecture genre got higher listening scores.
Examining the Role of Trust in Regulators in Food Safety Risk Assessment: A Cross-regional Analysis of Three Chinese Societies Using an Integrative Framework
Authors: Huang Yi-Hui Christine , Wang Xiao , Fong Ivy Wai-Yin , Wu Qiudi
Published: November 2021

Considerable efforts have been made to depict the causal patterns of trust, risk perception, and risk acceptance. Yet, it remains far from clear whether the established models are over-simplistic and to what extent the observed associations are contingent upon risk contexts. Extending the theorizing based on the Causal Chain model, this study adopts a comparative approach to examining the role of trust in regulators in the case of post-Fukushima food imports in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Taiwan. Consistent with the proposed integrative framework, all three samples exhibited indirect relationships between trust in regulators and behavioral intentions through two types of risk perception (affective and cognitive risk perceptions) and risk acceptance. Findings showed that risk acceptance was the most prominent mediator in explaining the extended model and supported the necessity of distinguishing risk acceptance and behavioral intention as two self-contained constructs working in sequence. Moreover, trust in regulators showed the strongest predictivity in behavioral intentions in the Mainland China sample, while risk perception played a more important role in explaining outcome variables in the Hong Kong and Taiwan samples. In addition to contributing to theory building by presenting the external validity of the integrative framework across different political and food regulatory systems, the study demonstrates practical implications for regulatory authorities and risk communicators.
Textbook Economics from Ameritrade’s Joe Ricketts
Authors: Greco Anthony J.
Published: November 2021

This article reviews the history of Ameritrade founded and developed by Joe Ricketts into a spectacularly successful discount brokerage enterprise. It, as such, represents another example of a risk-taking innovator who achieves success by filling a need in a free-enterprise market. The main takeaway is that free-enterprise works best from the bottom-up, that is, when individuals or individual companies ‘creatively destruct’ existing markets or generate new markets for goods or services through the implementation of innovative ideas and technology. The article also delineates the workings of the free-enterprise market by pointing out how familiar textbook economic principles are illustrated in the Ameritrade experience.

JEL Classifications: A10, D01, E02, G10
Three-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Bone Models of the Hip Joint Using Deep Learning: Dynamic Simulation of Hip Impingement for Diagnosis of Intra- and Extra-articular Hip Impingement
Authors: Zeng Guodong , Degonda Celia , Boschung Adam , Schmaranzer Florian , Gerber Nicolas , Siebenrock Klaus A. , Steppacher Simon D. , Tannast Moritz , Lerch Till D.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Dynamic 3-dimensional (3D) simulation of hip impingement enables better understanding of complex hip deformities in young adult patients with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Deep learning algorithms may improve magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) segmentation.

Purpose:

(1) To evaluate the accuracy of 3D models created using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for fully automatic MRI bone segmentation of the hip joint, (2) to correlate hip range of motion (ROM) between manual and automatic segmentation, and (3) to compare location of hip impingement in 3D models created using automatic bone segmentation in patients with FAI.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors retrospectively reviewed 31 hip MRI scans from 26 symptomatic patients (mean age, 27 years) with hip pain due to FAI. All patients had matched computed tomography (CT) and MRI scans of the pelvis and the knee. CT- and MRI-based osseous 3D models of the hip joint of the same patients were compared (MRI: T1 volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination high-resolution sequence; 0.8 mm3 isovoxel). CNNs were used to develop fully automatic bone segmentation of the hip joint, and the 3D models created using this method were compared with manual segmentation of CT- and MRI-based 3D models. Impingement-free ROM and location of hip impingement were calculated using previously validated collision detection software.

Results:

The difference between the CT- and MRI-based 3D models was <1 mm, and the difference between fully automatic and manual segmentation of MRI-based 3D models was <1 mm. The correlation of automatic and manual MRI-based 3D models was excellent and significant for impingement-free ROM ( r = 0.995; P < .001), flexion ( r = 0.953; P < .001), and internal rotation at 90° of flexion ( r = 0.982; P < .001). The correlation for impingement-free flexion between automatic MRI-based 3D models and CT-based 3D models was 0.953 ( P < .001). The location of impingement was not significantly different between manual and automatic segmentation of MRI-based 3D models, and the location of extra-articular hip impingement was not different between CT- and MRI-based 3D models.

Conclusion:

CNN can potentially be used in clinical practice to provide rapid and accurate 3D MRI hip joint models for young patients. The created models can be used for simulation of impingement during diagnosis of intra- and extra-articular hip impingement to enable radiation-free and patient-specific surgical planning for hip arthroscopy and open hip preservation surgery.
Weight Change for Pediatric Completers in a National Weight Loss Program
Authors: Cason-Wilkerson Rochelle , Thompson Darcy , Mitchell Nia
Published: November 2021

Overweight and obese children in low-income households have limited access to weight loss programs. Low-cost programs should be evaluated in this population. The objective of the current study is to determine weight change among 7 to 17-year-old participants in Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), a national, low-cost weight loss program. This nonconcurrent prospective study analyzes the cumulative change in weight z-score for overweight and obese children and adolescents who joined TOPS from 2008 to 2011 and consecutively renewed their annual membership. The study includes 586 individuals. At 1-year, cumulative mean (SD) weight z-score change was −0.13 (31). In general, mean change in weight z-scores was no different in subsequent years. Mean weight z-score of children and adolescent TOPS participants who renew their program membership decreased significantly in the first year. Randomized controlled trials should prospectively evaluate this program in children and adolescents.
Book review: Minakshi Jain, Kulbhushan Jain and Meghal Arya, Celebrating Heritage: The Rejuvenated Fort of Nagaur
Authors: Randhawa T. S.
Published: November 2021

Minakshi Jain, Kulbhushan Jain and Meghal Arya, Celebrating Heritage: The Rejuvenated Fort of Nagaur. Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Museum Trust, 2020. ₹2,500.
Commons, Commoning and Co-Becoming: Nurturing Life-in-Common and Post-Capitalist Futures (An Introduction to the Theme Issue)
Authors: García-López Gustavo A. , Lang Ursula , Singh Neera
Published: November 2021

Over the last decade, there has been an expansion of scholarly and activist engagement with the commons. This interest corresponds to a growing quest for alternatives to capitalism in view of ongoing socio- ecological crises. As neoliberal capitalism intensifies enclosure of the commons, local actions to reclaim old commons and invent new ones to counter these processes are also on the rise. However, there are diverse conceptions of the commons, and pitfalls in their reproduction and in mobilizing this vocabulary in the dominant neoliberal individualistic culture. Our understanding remains limited about how spaces for commons and commoning practices can be expanded, as well as about specific practices, relations and imaginaries that support commons and subjectivities of being-in-common. This Special Issue on the “Commons, Commoning and Co-becomings” seeks to deepen our understanding of ‘actually-existing’ and ‘more-than- human’ commons in the world, and how ways of relating to them open up possibilities of responding to current socioenvironmental challenges and generating beyond-capitalist ways of life. Exploring commoning experiences in diverse settings, the papers assembled in this Special Issue illustrate the role that commons and commoning practices play in reconfiguring human-nature relations. Thinking with these papers, we draw attention to three interrelated areas: relational aspects of the work of commoning (practices, labor, care) in transforming our world and being transformed by it; the role of commons and commoning practices in generating subjectivities of being-in-common; and difference and divergences (or, un-commoning) that persist and emerge in commoning processes. We offer these themes as directions to better understand and enact the potential of commons and commoning for worlding—crafting, (re)producing—of a pluriverse of post-capitalist worlds and life in- common.
Influence of acid activation on the NH3-adsorption properties of a Turkish bentonite
Authors: Erdoğan Burcu , Ergürhan Orkun , Anter Aslıhan
Published: November 2021

In this study, the adsorption of NH3 gas on a bentonite from Ünye (Turkey) in its natural state and after acid treatments, was investigated experimentally at 298 K and up to 100 kPa. Bentonite was treated with HCl solutions of various concentrations (0.5–2.5 M) at 75°C for 4 h. X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), N2 adsorption and thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA) were used to characterize the bentonite before and after acid treatment. The quantitative XRD analysis demonstrated that the bentonite sample was composed predominantly of smectite (75%), with abundant feldspar (20%) and minor opal-CT, analcime and quartz (5%). Increasing gas adsorption values of acid-treated bentonites were analysed depending on the structural changes of the clay. The NH3-adsorption capacities of the bentonite samples (3.801–5.068 mmol g–1) were also compared with previously studied clay-based materials (0.828–4.000 mmol g–1) in terms of their textural and structural differences.