bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Intensity Endurance and Strength Training in Water Polo Olympic Team Players: Impact on Arterial Wall Properties
Authors: Oikonomou Evangelos , Siasos Gerasimos , Marinos Georgios , Zaromitidou Marina , Athanasiou Dimitris , Fountoulakis Petros , Tsalamandris Sotiris , Charalambous Georgios , Lazaros Georgios , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Regular physical activity is recommended to minimize health risk. However, the upper intensity threshold associated with the best health outcomes is difficult to be determined. Water polo (WP) Olympic athletes present unique characteristics such as high-intensity exercise, long training sessions, and a combination of endurance and strength training. Therefore, we examined in which way the long-term, intense, mixed endurance and strength training affects the peripheral and central hemodynamics. Methods: The study population consisted of 20 WP Olympic team players, 20 matched recreationally active (RA) subjects, and 20 sedentary control subjects (Cl). Reflected waves were assessed with the augmentation index (AIx), central aortic stiffness with pulse wave velocity (PWV), and endothelial function with flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Results: Amongst Cl subjects, RA subjects, and WP players, there was no difference in age (p = 0.33) as well as in brachial systolic pressure (p = 0.52), while there was a stepwise decrease in aortic systolic pressure (116 ± 16 mm Hg vs. 107 ± 14 mm Hg vs. 106 ± 6 mm Hg, p = 0.03). There was also a stepwise improvement in AIx (–4.22 ± 9.97% vs. –6.97 ± 11.28% vs. –12.14 ± 6.62%, p = 0.03) and FMD (6.61 ± 1.78% vs. 7.78 ± 1.98% vs. 8.3 ± 2.05%, p = 0.04) according to the intensity of exercise, with WP players having lower AIx and higher FMD compared to RA subjects and Cl subjects. No difference was found in PWV (Cl: 5.88 ± 0.72 m/s vs. RA: 6.04 ± 0.75 m/s vs. WP: 5.97 ± 1.09 m/s, p = 0.82) among the three studied groups. Conclusions: Young WP Olympic team players depict improved arterial wall properties and endothelial function compared to RA and Cl subjects.
High Prevalence of Gram-Negative Rod and Multi-Organism Surgical Site Infections after Pediatric Complex Tethered Spinal Cord Surgery: Preliminary Report from a Single-Center Study
Authors: Alexiades Nikita G. , Shao Belinda , Saiman Lisa , Feldstein Neil , Anderson Richard C.E.
Published: July 2020

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the most common complications following pediatric complex tethered spinal cord release. This patient population is similar in some ways to the neuromuscular scoliosis population, in which higher-than-expected rates of gram-negative SSIs have been identified. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent complex tethered spinal cord release over a 10-year period between 2007 and 2017. Results: A total of 69 patients were identified, with 10 documented SSIs (14%). 50% of the SSIs were polymicrobial or included at least 1 gram-negative organism. Among the organisms isolated, 3 were fully or ­partially resistant to cefazolin, the most common antibiotic prophylaxis in this population. Conclusion: Among children undergoing complex tethered spinal cord release, gram-negative and polymicrobial infections are a significant cause of SSIs. Although further multicenter data are needed, these findings suggest that standard antibiotic prophylaxis with cefazolin may not be sufficient.
Jornadas Diferenciadas
Authors: Martins Junior Angelo
Published: July 2020

This article question generic homogenising representations of ‘the migrant’ by providing an examination of the multivalent ways in which social differences contours migration processes. Migration scholars often reproduce generic homogenising typologies of ‘migrants’, such as the two opposing migrant analogies ‘from the Global South’ (‘the transnational migrant’, who flows through social networks from the Global South to the developed North, seeking economic gains) and ‘from the Global North’ (‘the lifestyle migrant’, who chooses to migrate from developed countries to places they believe offers them the potential of a better quality of life). Through the examination of the journeys of Brazilians in London, this article draws attention to the connections and contexts of both sending and receiving societies, as well as the diversity existing within the Brazilian population abroad. As is argued within this paper, such an analysis allows for better understanding of how the experiences of Brazilians in London are directly shaped by the intersection of multiple social markers, resulting in what I call ‘differentiated journeys’. Brazilians navigate different levels of constraints and constantly re-formulate their journeys due to their class, gender, nationality and documental status. This allow us to frame migratory experiences beyond generalizing and homogenising representations. The empirical research combines an 18-month ethnography in places of leisure with 33 in-depth interviews with Brazilians in London.
Características da linguagem da tradução e o termo “segurança” na linguagem da aviação
Authors: Costa Carlos Eduardo Piazentine
Published: July 2020

A tradução, de forma independente e autônoma, apresenta características próprias, presentes na natureza de sua linguagem. Este artigo analisa possíveis traços típicos da tradução e o termo “segurança” em português, suas traduções para o inglês “safety” e “security” e seus sentidos e usos, na linguagem da aviação. Empregamos o arcabouço teórico e metodológico dos Estudos da Tradução Baseados em Corpus (BAKER, 1993, 1995, 1996) e da Linguística de Corpus (BERBER SARDINHA, 2000, 2004) ao analisar textos em português e as respectivas traduções para o inglês. Para a compilação do corpus paralelo de estudo, utilizamos duas revistas científicas da área da aviação (Aviation in Focus, 2006; Conexão Sipaer, 2009). As traduções apresentaram características de explicitação, simplificação e normalização contendo reduções, omissões, explicações e adequações na linguagem direcionada ao leitor do texto meta. A análise dos termos discutiu seus conceitos e ofereceu formas consagradas utilizadas em suas traduções. Os resultados pretendem oferecer uma reflexão sobre a função dos traços típicos da tradução, visando a uma melhor compreensão dos termos estudados, e auxiliar em questões de imprecisões e ambiguidades na busca de equivalente em inglês, com vista a orientar tradutores e profissionais que utilizam essa linguagem de especialidade.

As traduções apresentaram características de explicitação, simplificação e normalização contendo reduções, omissões, explicações e adequações na linguagem direcionada ao leitor do texto meta. Os resultados pretendem contribuir para uma melhor compreensão dos termos observados com vista a tradutores e profissionais que utilizam essa linguagem de especialidade.
Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Degradation by Differently Polarized Macrophage Subsets
Authors: Haider Patrick , Kral-Pointner Julia B. , Mayer Julia , Richter Manuela , Kaun Christoph , Brostjan Christine , Eilenberg Wolf , Fischer Michael B. , Speidl Walter S. , Hengstenberg Christian , Huber Kurt , Wojta Johann , Hohensinner Philipp
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Macrophages are immune cells, capable to remodel the extracellular matrix, which can harbor extracellular DNA incorporated into neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). To study the breakdown of NETs we studied the capability of macrophage subsets to degrade these structures in vitro and in vivo in a murine thrombosis model. Furthermore, we analyzed human abdominal aortic aneurysm samples in support of our in vitro and in vivo results.

Approach and Results:

Macrophages were seeded onto blood clots or isolated NETs and polarized. All macrophages were capable to degrade NETs. For initial breakdown, macrophages relied on extracellular deoxyribonucleases. Proinflammatory polarization enhanced NET degradation. The boost in degradation was because of increased macropinocytosis, as inhibition by imipramine diminished their NET breakdown. Inhibition of macropinocytosis in a murine thrombosis model led to increased NET burden and reduced thrombus resolution in vivo. When analyzing abdominal aortic aneurysm samples, macrophage density furthermore corresponded negatively with the amount of local NETs in the intraluminal thrombi as well as in the vessel wall, as increased macrophage density was associated with a reduction in NET burden.

Conclusions:

We provide evidence that macrophages degrade NETs by extracellular predigestion and subsequent uptake. Furthermore, we show that proinflammatory macrophages increase NET degradation through enhanced macropinocytosis, priming them for NET engulfment. Based on our findings, that inhibition of macropinocytosis in mice corresponded to increased NET amounts in thrombi and that local macrophage density in human abdominal aortic aneurysm is negatively associated with surrounding NETs, we hypothesize, that macrophages are able to degrade NETs in vivo.
Dapagliflozin and Diuretic Use in Patients With Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction in DAPA-HF
Authors: Jackson Alice M. , Dewan Pooja , Anand Inder S. , Bělohlávek Jan , Bengtsson Olof , de Boer Rudolf A. , Böhm Michael , Boulton David W. , Chopra Vijay K. , DeMets David L. , Docherty Kieran F. , Dukát Andrej , Greasley Peter J. , Howlett Jonathan G. , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Katova Tzvetana , Køber Lars , Kosiborod Mikhail N. , Langkilde Anna Maria , Lindholm Daniel , Ljungman Charlotta E.A. , Martinez Felipe A. , O’Meara Eileen , Sabatine Marc S. , Sjöstrand Mikaela , Solomon Scott D. , Tereshchenko Sergey , Verma Subodh , Jhund Pardeep S. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: July 2020

Background:

In the DAPA-HF trial (Dapagliflozin and Prevention of Adverse-Outcomes in Heart Failure), the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin reduced the risk of worsening heart failure and death in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. We examined the efficacy and tolerability of dapagliflozin in relation to background diuretic treatment and change in diuretic therapy after randomization to dapagliflozin or placebo.

Methods:

We examined the effects of study treatment in the following subgroups: no diuretic and diuretic dose equivalent to furosemide <40, 40, and >40 mg daily at baseline. We examined the primary composite end point of cardiovascular death or a worsening heart failure event and its components, all-cause death and symptoms.

Results:

Of 4616 analyzable patients, 736 (15.9%) were on no diuretic, 1311 (28.4%) were on <40 mg, 1365 (29.6%) were on 40 mg, and 1204 (26.1%) were taking >40 mg. Compared with placebo, dapagliflozin reduced the risk of the primary end point across each of these subgroups: hazard ratios were 0.57 (95% CI, 0.36–0.92), 0.83 (95% CI, 0.63–1.10), 0.77 (95% CI, 0.60–0.99), and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.63–0.97), respectively (
P
for interaction=0.61). The hazard ratio in patients taking any diuretic was 0.78 (95% CI, 0.68–0.90). Improvements in symptoms and treatment toleration were consistent across the diuretic subgroups. Diuretic dose did not change in most patients during follow-up, and mean diuretic dose did not differ between the dapagliflozin and placebo groups after randomization.

Conclusions:

The efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin were consistent across the diuretic subgroups examined in DAPA-HF.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03036124.
Two-year clinical outcomes following lower limb endovascular revascularisation for chronic limb-threatening ischaemia at a tertiary Asian vascular centre in Singapore
Authors: Tay WL , Chong TT , Chan SL , Yap HY , Tay KH , Ong MEH , Choke EC , Tang TY
Published: July 2020

INTRODUCTION Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is commonly used to treat patients with chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI). This study aimed to examine the mortality and functional outcomes of patients with CLTI who predominantly had diabetes mellitus in a multi-ethnic Asian population in Singapore. METHODS Patients with CLTI who underwent PTA between January 2015 and March 2017 at the Vascular Unit at Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, were studied. Primary outcome measures were 30-day unplanned readmission, two-year major lower extremity amputation (LEA), mortality rates, and ambulation status at one, six and 12 months. RESULTS A total of 221 procedures were performed on 207 patients, of whom 184 (88.9%) were diabetics. The one-, six- and 12-month mortality rate was 7.7%, 16.4% and 21.7%, respectively. The two-year LEA rate was 30.0%. At six and 12 months, only 96 (46.4%) and 93 (44.9%) patients were ambulant, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative ambulatory status, haemoglobin, Wound Ischaemia and foot Infection (WIfI) score, and end-stage renal failure (ESRF) were independent predictors of one-year ambulatory status. Predictors of mortality at one, six and 12 months were ESRF, preoperative albumin level, impaired functional status and employment status. CONCLUSION PTA for CLTI was associated with low one-year mortality and two-year LEA rates but did not significantly improve ambulation status. ESRF and hypoalbuminaemia were independent predictors of mortality. ESRF/CKD and WIfI score were independent predictors of loss of ambulation at six months and one year. We need better risk stratification for patients with CLTI to decide between initial revascularisation and an immediate LEA policy.
The City and the Comic
Authors: Ndogo Samuel
Published: July 2020

This paper starts on the premise that comedy performed in vernacular languages in Kenya has proliferated over the last two decades. Specific focus is on Gĩkũyũ language plays performed by Fanaka Arts, a theatre company based in Nairobi. I settle on three titles namely Nyoori Momori, Tũirio Twega and ITINA SACCO to demonstrate that: (a) these plays draw inspiration and thematic material from the everyday social cultural and political experiences and (b) they employ vernacular language and various literary techniques to provide entertainment as well as to impart didactic values to the audience. One feature that is common in the three plays is the marriage motif; there are convergences and divergences in the ways each reference and parody marriage, infidelity, urbanity, politics, and unpopular government policies. The key question I ask is: what makes these plays appealing to the audiences? References to the body as well as descriptions of sexuality in veiled figurative language are other common features in these plays. As such, it is the libidinous metaphors and sexual innuendoes in the titles of these lewd comedies that make them attractive to the audiences in Nairobi. Apart from being a form of entertainment, these monthly theatre performances in Gĩkũyũ language enable the urban middle class to connect with their village and cultural roots. Moreover, through comedy, they articulate what may be considered as trite social-cultural issues in ways that other conventional media may not achieve. As such, these comedies make people to reflect upon and laugh at themselves concomitantly. The hilarious depictions of various social concerns can also be considered as subversive and aesthetic means of political critique.
Editorial
Authors: Liu Lu , Coates Hamish , Shi Jinghuan
Published: July 2020

This issue collects six papers which investigate ongoing challenges and developments in Chinese higher education. It publishes papers from emerging researchers who chart contemporary directions in research and practice relating to institutional governance and philanthropy, the changing identity of university leaders and teachers, the formation of liberal arts and business studies curriculum. The papers focus on education in China and abroad, and offer cross-national and intercultural perspectives of high relevance in a changing world.
The Barriers, Facilitators, and Solutions for Women in Educational Leadership Roles in a Chinese University
Authors: Lu Xintong
Published: July 2020

Although women are considered to be dominant contributors in the field of education, underrepresentation of women in educational leadership is still a pervasive issue. The situation may be more critical in the Asian Chinese context, wherein the male-dominated tradition of the feudal system has been prevalent for thousands of years. This article examines the barriers faced by women in educational leadership roles in a Chinese university, and the facilitators of female educational leadership. The case study was conducted using qualitative methods, involving interviews with both male and female leaders. The findings present a range of barriers that women in the research university are now facing, facilitating factors, and ways to solve the issue. Addressing the importance of recognising the underrepresentation of women in Chinese universities also has the aim of promoting gender equity in educational leadership.
Identities of Chinese Community-Based Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia: an Exploration Study Using the Concept of ‘Roots’
Authors: Wan Chang Da , Lee Molly N.N. , Sirat Morshidi , Heng Wen Zhuo
Published: July 2020

Malaysia is a multi-racial country where about a quarter of the population are ethnic Chinese. Arguably, Malaysia is also the only country outside of Greater China to have a ‘complete’ Chinese education track from primary to higher education. The Malaysia higher education system, consisting of both public and private higher education institutions, has five private higher education institutions that can be considered as ‘Chinese community-based’. These institutions were established by various interest groups in the Chinese community with seemingly different purposes. Hence, based on interviews with 23 participants, ranging from institutional leaders, administrators, mid-level academic managers and academic staff across three ‘Chinese community-based’ institutions, this paper explores the identities of these ‘Chinese community-based’ institutions. Using the concept of ‘roots’ (根) as an analytical lens, this paper illustrates three distinctive identities of these institutions which can be described as the ethnically proud (寻根问祖), the accommodator (落地生根) and the uprooted (失根群族). The understanding of these different identities illuminated the fact that there are subtle but crucial differences even across the three selected ‘Chinese community-based’ higher education institutions in Malaysia. More importantly, this diversity has crucial implications for policymaking in the governance of higher education institutions, positioning and branding of these institutions, as well as understanding of educational development of the Chinese diaspora outside of Greater China.
Acanthemblemaria aceroi, a new species of tube blenny from the Caribbean coast of South America with notes on Acanthemblemaria johnsoni (Teleostei: Chaenopsidae)
Authors: HASTINGS PHILIP A. , EYTAN RON I. , SUMMERS ADAM P.
Published: July 2020

Acanthemblemaria aceroi new species is described from the upwelling region of the Caribbean coasts of Venezuela and Colombia. It differs from its closest relative, Acanthemblemaria rivasi Stephens, 1970, known from Panama and Costa Rica, in the posterior extent of the infraorbitals, details of head spination, and unique COI sequences. The description of Acanthemblemaria johnsonsi Almany & Baldwin, 1996, heretofore known only from Tobago, is expanded based on specimens from islands offshore of eastern Venezuela.
Effect of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement on Retinal Layer Thickness Measured by Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Erdöl Mehmet Akif , Özbebek Yunus Emre , Erbahçeci Timur Inci Elif , Ugurlu Nagihan , Bozkurt Engin
Published: July 2020

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is associated with clinically significant cerebral microembolism and cognitive status changes. There are no data on the impact of TAVR on retinal layers. We assessed the influence of TAVR on the retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell complex (GCC), and macular thickness (MT) measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Elderly patients (n = 50) with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR were included in this study (mean age: 78.5 ± 6.9 years). Retinal nerve fiber layer, GCC, and MT were measured with SD-OCT by an ophthalmologist before and on the first day and in the first month after TAVR. The average MT was significantly increased on the first day after TAVR compared with the basal value ( P = .04). Ganglion cell complex thickness was significantly thinner on the first day after TAVR than the basal value in the inner inferior quadrant and outer temporal quadrant of the left eye ( P = .03 and .04, respectively). Postoperative changes observed on the first day compared with the preoperative period returned to basal values in the first month. In conclusion, TAVR did not cause permanent changes in retinal layers.
Outpatient Parotidectomy: A Retrospective Series
Authors: Michel Margaret C. , Mulcahy Collin F. , Benito Daniel A. , Patel Sahil , Badger Christopher , Kane Sean , Li Ning-Wei , Goodman Joseph F. , Thakkar Punam G. , Joshi Arjun S.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

Recent literature suggests that outpatient head and neck surgery is safe and may decrease costs. This study assesses whether outpatient parotidectomy differs in complication type and rate from inpatient surgery.

Methods:

Patients who underwent parotidectomy at our institution from 2011 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed and divided by inpatient or outpatient status. Complications including infection, seroma, salivary fistula, hematoma, and flap necrosis, as well as readmission rates were tabulated. Drain placement, related to tumor size, was also analyzed using a receiver operating curve.

Results:

144 patients had available data for analysis. Nine of the 144 patients had complications. Seven of 98 outpatients and two of 46 inpatients had complications. There was no statistically significant difference in complication rate between the two groups ( P = .518). Tumor size ≥4.62 cm3 was associated with drain placement ( P = .044).

Conclusion:

Outpatient parotidectomy is a safe and viable alternative for carefully selected patients.
An Experimental Investigation of Sample–Fluid Heat Coupling Effect in Thermal Lens Technique
Authors: Lukasievicz Gustavo V.B. , Herculano Leandro S. , Sehn Elizandra , Belançon Marcos P. , Bialkowski Stephen E. , Capeloto Otávio A. , Astrath Nelson G.C. , Malacarne Luis C.
Published: July 2020

Laser-induced wavefront distortion is detectable by several techniques based on the photothermal effect. The effect is probed by monitoring the phase shift caused by the bulging of the heated area, the photoelastic effects, and the spatial distribution of the refractive index within the sample and in the fluid surrounding it. A simple analytical solution for the wavefront distortion was only possible for low absorbing materials, with the assumption that the stresses obey either the thin-disk or the long-rod type distributions. Recently, a unified theoretical description for the laser-induced optical path change was proposed to overcome part of this limitation for weakly absorbing materials, regardless of its thickness. In this work, we perform an experimental investigation taking the sample–fluid heat coupling effect into account using the thermal lens technique. The experimental investigation presented here validates the unified model. In addition, we show that the heat-coupling model provides an alternative method to obtain physical properties of non-absorbing fluid by using a reference solid sample.
Election Administration, Resource Allocation, and Turnout: Evidence From Kenya
Authors: Harris J. Andrew
Published: July 2020

Decisions about how to organize and run an election can shape political participation. Policy choices may distribute election resources unequally, skewing voting outcomes. In low- and middle-income countries where electoral capacity and resources are scarce and decision-making highly centralized, election administration has the potential to shape results on a large scale. In the context of Kenya’s August 2017 elections, I study the consequences of a legislated threshold that determines the capacity of polling centers to quickly serve voters by reducing election-day lines. Using a regression discontinuity design, I find that turnout is 2.4% lower in congested polling places just below the threshold relative to polling places above the threshold. Relative to other hypothetical thresholds, the chosen threshold benefits the incumbent president, as incumbent strongholds receive more polling resources than opposition areas. The results demonstrate how electoral resource allocation shapes political behavior and election outcomes.
From “stardust” to statecraft: The Canada Council for the Arts and the evolution of Canadian cultural diplomacy
Authors: Potter Evan
Published: July 2020

If culture is the lynchpin of public diplomacy, then the Canada Council for the Arts (the Council) has had an important role in projecting Canada’s international image, identity, and values beyond its borders for over 60 years. This article explores the evolution of the Council’s role in Canada’s cultural diplomacy, from its birth as a result of the Massey Commission’s recommendations to its growing international role in projecting Canada’s diversity in a contemporary international context. The article argues that the Council’s growing international role, one that promotes cultural freedom, will strengthen Canada’s foreign policy and may portend a unique form of “bottom-up” Canadian cultural statecraft that is distinct from the traditional “top-down” forms of political and economic statecraft.
Mistaking an Intention for a Behavior: The Case of Enacting Behavioral Decisions Versus Simply Intending to Enact Them
Authors: Albarracin Dolores , Sunderrajan Aashna , McCulloch Kathleen C. , Jones Christopher
Published: July 2020

Five experiments investigated a previously unrecognized phenomenon—remembering that one enacted a mundane behavioral decision when one only intended to do so—and its psychological mechanisms. The theoretical conceptualization advanced in this research proposes that this error stems from a misattribution when an intention and a behavior are similar. Intentions and behaviors are similar when the physical aspects of the behavior resemble the intention (e.g., both require similar keystrokes) and when the behavior and the intention share mental contents (e.g., both rely on the same criterion). Experiments 1 and 2 introduced a paradigm with similar intentions and enactments and showed misreports and subsequent performance errors even when controlling for guessing. Experiments 3 and 4 demonstrated greater confusion when the physical involvement and mental criteria for intention and behavior were similar. Finally, Experiment 5 indicated that monitoring enactment is highly effective at reducing this error and more effective than monitoring intention.
Living with an Insertable Cardiac Monitor: Influences on Self-Care Management
Authors: Ventura Aprel F. , Horne Carolyn E. , Crane Patricia B. , Sears Samuel
Published: July 2020

The insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) is technology for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmias. The perception of those living with the device and how this relates to self-care management is unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of those with undiagnosed cardiac symptoms living with an ICM. This study used a qualitative descriptive design. Analysis of data was by intraparticipant analysis, interparticipant analysis, and interrelationships. Three global categories emerged: (a) influences on self-care, (b) dealing and (c) monitoring. Self-care management after insertion of the ICM was determined by the participant’s perception of health, what symptoms they were experiencing and whether there was a positive or negative experience with the clinician. Many indicated little to no regular communication regarding symptoms and ICM results. Increasing communication relevant to management of health and long-term findings may assist in enhancing physical and psychological health.
The relationship between neuropsychological function and responsiveness to vitamin D supplementation using artificial neural networks
Authors: Allahyari Elahe , Hanachi Parichehr , Ariakia Fatemeh , Kashfi Toktam Emami , Ferns Gordon A , Bahrami Afsane , Mobarhan Majid Ghayour
Published: July 2020

Background:

Vitamin D has recently attracted interest for its pleiotropic effects. Vitamin D supplements are a potentially important public health intervention, but the response to supplementation varies between individuals.

Aim:

We aimed to assess the association between several neuropsychological parameters and the magnitude of response to vitamin D supplementation using an artificial neural network method.

Methods:

Neuropsychological function was assessed in 619 participants using standard questionnaires. The study participants received vitamin D capsules containing 50,000 IU vitamin D per week over 9 weeks. To assess the relationship between responsiveness to vitamin D supplements and the impact on these neuropsychological parameters, the best-performing artificial neural network algorithms were selected from a combination of different transfer functions in hidden and output layers and variable numbers of hidden layers (between two and 50). The performance of the artificial neural network algorithm was assessed by receiver operating characteristic analysis and variables of importance were identified.

Results:

The artificial neural network algorithm with sigmoid transfer function in both hidden and output layers could predict responsiveness to vitamin D supplementation effectively. The sensitivity and specificity were between 0.60 and 0.70 and 0.66 and 0.70, respectively. Cognitive abilities (42.5%), basal vitamin D (21.3%), body mass index (9.5%), and daytime sleepiness (8%) are the most widely used variables to predict changes in serum vitamin D levels.

Conclusions:

Cognitive abilities status and baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D are important novel modifiers of the enhancement in circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D after vitamin D supplementation.
Cultivating musical talent
Authors: Shuler Pamela , Shuler Sidney
Published: July 2020

The issue of parenting children and adolescents who demonstrate an aptitude or potential for music has not been extensively investigated or written about. The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the relevant issues in this domain and offer some guidance and suggestions for parents who may have a child who demonstrates a proclivity for music.
Playing the game? A criminological account of the making and sharing of Probationary: The Game of Life on Licence
Authors: Jackson Will , Murray Emma , Hayes Anne
Published: July 2020

This article reflects on the production and dissemination of Probationary: The Game of Life on Licence. Probationary is an artwork in the form of a board game that takes its players on a journey as they navigate the complexities of the probation process. This article explores the interdisciplinary collaborations that underpinned both the making and the sharing of the game and examines the benefits and challenges of working with stakeholders in this way. We suggest that creative methodologies can provide new ways of engaging with research subjects and new means of disseminating academic research with a view to informing change.
If you want to change the world you have to start with yourself: The impact of staff reflective practice within the Offender Personality Disorder pathway
Authors: Webster Nicole , Doggett Laura , Gardner Stephanie
Published: July 2020

The offender personality disorder (OPD) pathway was implemented in 2012 to help improve services for people with personality difficulties within the criminal justice system. The OPD pathway acknowledges the importance of supervision, training and reflective practice for staff working with this client group and such activities have therefore been embedded within this initiative. Despite the research from this pathway identifying benefits to both staff and service users, there is a gap in knowledge about the impact of reflective practice. This study aims, therefore, to increase this knowledge base by exploring staff’s experience and perception of reflective practice as part of the OPD pathway programme. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were completed with 32 members of National Health Service and National Probation Service staff within offender management teams and approved premises in the North East of England. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, resulting in the emergence of four key themes relating to the utility of reflective practice sessions. The findings suggest that reflective practice is useful, however, there are some barriers to attending sessions. The findings have implications for service delivery and workforce development within the OPD pathway programme and more widely within NPS.
Test Review: Current options in at-home language proficiency tests for making high-stakes decisions
Authors: Isbell Daniel R. , Kremmel Benjamin
Published: July 2020

Administration of high-stakes language proficiency tests has been disrupted in many parts of the world as a result of the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic. Institutions that rely on test scores have been forced to adapt, and in many cases this means using scores from a different test, or a new online version of an existing test, that can be taken at home. The switch to accepting at-home proficiency tests for high-stakes decisions raises many concerns for stakeholders, such as technological demands, exam security, and validity of score use. Along these lines, this thematic review addresses such concerns and features brief reviews of seven options in at-home proficiency testing: ACTFL Assessments, Duolingo English Test, IELTS Indicator, LanguageCert, TEF Express, TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition, and Versant. Considering at-home testing more broadly, we discuss key considerations for selecting an at-home test. We close with speculation on how at-home tests may shape language testing going forward: Beyond adapting to the current pandemic, at-home testing might address longstanding issues in access to language testing services and the representation of real-world communication practices in language tests.
The impact of native leptomeningeal collateralization on rapid blood flow recruitment following ischemic stroke
Authors: Kanoke Atsushi , Akamatsu Yosuke , Nishijima Yasuo , To Eric , Lee Chih C , Li Yuandong , Wang Ruikang K , Tominaga Teiji , Liu Jialing
Published: July 2020

The leptomeningeal collateral status is an independent predictor of stroke outcome. By means of optical coherent tomography angiography to compare two mouse strains with different extent of native leptomeningeal collateralization, we determined the spatiotemporal dynamics of collateral flow and downstream hemodynamics following ischemic stroke. A robust recruitment of leptomeningeal collateral flow was detected immediately after middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion in C57BL/6 mice, with continued expansion over the course of seven days. In contrast, little collateral recruitment was seen in Balb/C mice during- and one day after MCAO, which coincided with a greater infarct size and worse functional outcome compared to C57BL/6, despite a slight improvement of cortical perfusion seven days after MCAO. Both strains of mice experienced a reduction of blood flow in the penetrating arterioles (PA) by more than 90% 30-min after dMCAO, although the decrease of PA flow was greater and the recovery was less in the Balb/C mice. Further, Balb/C mice also displayed a prolonged greater heterogeneity of capillary transit time after dMCAO in the MCA territory compared to C57BL/6 mice. Our data suggest that the extent of native leptomeningeal collaterals affects downstream hemodynamics with a long lasting impact in the microvascular bed after cortical stroke.
Incidentally detected sellar spine in a patient with Cushing’s syndrome: a case report
Authors: Lee Hyo-jae , Lee Yun Young , Baek Byung Hyun , Yoon Woong , Kim Seul Kee
Published: July 2020

Sellar spine, a bony spur extending anteriorly from the dorsum sellae, is a very rare anatomical variant. Several hypotheses regarding its etiology have been proposed, including the strongly supported theory of a cephalic ossified notochordal remnant. Sellar spine is usually detected incidentally in patients who have no definite symptoms, but several cases have reportedly accompanied endocrinopathies such as precocious puberty, hypopituitarism, or galactorrhea/oligomenorrhea. However, no published reports have described sellar spine in a patient with Cushing’s syndrome. We herein report a case of sellar spine detected during the evaluation of Cushing’s disease in a 29-year-old woman who underwent inferior petrosal sinus sampling, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and exploratory surgery. There was no evidence of a pituitary microadenoma, but a sellar spine was present in the operative field. Thus, the sellar spine might have caused Cushing’s syndrome in this case, although the exact mechanism is unknown.
Outcomes of 1- Versus 2-Stage Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Colatruglio Matthew , Flanigan David C. , Long Joseph , DiBartola Alex C. , Magnussen Robert A.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a common orthopaedic sports medicine procedure, but graft failure is not uncommon and often leads to revision ACLR. Revision surgery can be performed in a 1- or 2-stage fashion.

Hypothesis:

Graft failure risk, patient-reported outcomes, and anterior knee laxity are similar after 1- and 2-stage revision ACLR.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review of the literature was performed to evaluate patient outcomes after 1- versus 2-stage revision ACLR. A search was performed with the phrase “revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction” across Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and SportDiscus from the beginning of their archives through July 12, 2019.

Results:

Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria and included 524 patients: 319 patients who underwent 1-stage revision ACLR and 205 patients who underwent 2-stage revision ACLR. Two studies compared outcomes of 1- versus 2-stage revision ACLR; 4 studies reported outcomes after 2-stage revision ACLR; and the remaining 7 studies documented outcomes after 1-stage ACLR. The mean follow-up was 4.1 years. The 2 studies that compared 1- versus 2-stage ACLR reported no differences in functional, radiologic, or patient-reported outcomes or failure risk. Overall, 9 studies reported subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores; 4 studies, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score values; 8 studies, Lysholm scores; and 7 studies, Tegner scores; 8 studies measured anterior laxity with a KT-1000 arthrometer. The mean weighted subjective IKDC score for all studies including this outcome at final follow-up was 66.6 for 1-stage revisions and 65.9 for 2-stage revisions.

Conclusion:

The available evidence comparing 1- versus 2-stage revision ACLR is retrospective and limited. The results of each approach are similar in appropriately selected patients.
The Addition of Orthodox Voices to (Western) Political Theology
Authors: Cole Jonathan
Published: July 2020

This review article examines the recent and welcome addition of Orthodox voices to a politico-theological discourse that has long been dominated by Catholic and Protestant perspectives. The value of Orthodox political theology to wider ecumenical discussion of politics and theology rests in the unique insights it is able to bring to common questions, such as the Orthodox Church’s place and role in liberal democracies, by virtue of its unique political contexts (post-Communism, Byzantine historical legacy) and theological paradigms ( theosis, symphonia). The article notes the explicit and implicit influence of Western political theology on the nature and shape of contemporary Orthodox political theology and suggests that, as such, the latter can be regarded as forming a new and integral part of the former.
Determination of optimal positive position feedback parameters by using nonsmooth H∞ synthesis
Authors: E Bin , Shan Jinjun , Khushnood Muhammad Atif , Wang Xiaogang , Cui Naigang
Published: July 2020

This article presents a method for determining optimal parameters of positive position feedback controllers used for suppressing vibration of flexible structures. The method is based on solving the H∞ synthesis problem with additional constraints on the controller structure. The method allows for independent control of damping added to each mode. Moreover, optimal parameters for both simple input simple output and multiple input multiple output control formulations can be obtained. The effectiveness of the method is shown by comparing the results of both multiple input multiple output and simple input simple output positive position feedback controllers designed by the proposed method, with the simple input simple output positive position feedback controller designed by analytically derived optimal parameters. Moreover, results of controllers designed with the fixed-order transfer function control structure are also presented to emphasize the advantages offered by the positive position feedback control structure.
Resilience, Reinvention and Transition during and after Quarantine
Authors: Van Assche Kristof , Duineveld Martijn , Birchall S. Jeff , Deacon Leith , Beunen Raoul , Gruezmacher Monica , Boezeman Daan
Published: July 2020

Quarantine measures and the crises triggering them are never neutral in the sense that a return to the past is impossible. These measures are also a signal of other things like systemic risks and weaknesses. A period of quarantine is also a thing in and by itself. What happens after quarantine is thus shaped both by the state of the social-ecological system preceding quarantine and by what happened during quarantine. The selectivities introduced during quarantine span discursive, institutional and material realms. Old discourses can return with a new meaning. Social and economic relations can reappear seemingly unchanged, they can be more visibly altered and they can be dismantled. Ideologies, however, to be understood here as master discourses, read problems and solutions in their own way and do not necessarily come closer to each other or disappear. All this, offers food for thought regarding the possibilities and limits of resilience and transition. We argue that the current COVID- 19 pandemic casts doubt on the generic applicability of theories of resilience and transition, yet also sheds a new light on the value of both. We propose the concept of reinvention to describe what is happening and what could happen in a more coordinated fashion. We argue that the current crisis reveals mechanisms in systems dynamics that point at the existence of multiple pathways after dramatic system shocks. Some shocks and their system- specific responses (such as a particular kind of quarantine) are more amenable to resilience strategies afterwards, while others require a path of radical transition. They might also both be needed: a rather stark transition now might ensure future resilience. While the outline of the system after transition is not clear, some desirable features are clear as are the risks and damages of the current system. Also clear is the argument for transitional governance, a temporary governance system (beyond quarantine) which can enable the construction of new long term perspectives in governance and new governance tools meant to reduce chances of a crisis like this one reoccuring.
Quarantine: Contradictory Spatial Practice between Abstract and Concrete
Authors: Valizadeh Paria
Published: July 2020

For one who is alone in a country where he or she has newly arrived, a quarantine is nothing but an incarceration that can barely be tolerated without having moments of mental breakdown. Although, this imposed isolation has the prospect of redemption at its end, the infinite scope of time during which that current situation will last is indeed problematic. Being in quarantine is a distinct experience where space-time duality loses its genuine meaning. Quarantine, by its very nature, is the spatialization of uncertainty in different ways, from uncertainty of being infected, of being healthy by segregating, of being in the safe zone, and of being isolated for an infinite time. Besides all these uncertainties, awareness of impossibility of keeping place of isolation pure from the ubiquitous microorganism causes this imposed seclusion to be seemed in vain. Hence, instead of panicking futilely, reflecting upon the new awareness that has emerged out of crisis will be an emancipatory path.
Evaluation of brain and spinal cord lesion distribution criteria at disease onset in distinguishing NMOSD from MS and MOG antibody-associated disorder
Authors: Cai Meng-Ting , Zheng Yang , Shen Chun-Hong , Yang Fan , Fang Wei , Zhang Yin-Xi , Ding Mei-Ping
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To validate the recently proposed imaging criteria in distinguishing aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-ab)-seropositive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) from multiple sclerosis (MS) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disorder (MOG-AD) at disease onset in a Chinese population.

Methods:

We enrolled 241 patients in this retrospective study, including 143 AQP4-ab-seropositive NMOSD, 73 MS, and 25 MOG-AD. Cacciaguerra’s criteria were described as fulfillment of at least 2/5 conditions including the absence of the combined juxtacortical/cortical lesions, the presence of longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) lesions, the presence of periependymal-lateral ventricles lesions, the absence of Dawson’s fingers lesions, and the absence of periventricular lesions.

Results:

Fulfillment of at least 3/5 conditions was able to differentiate NMOSD from MS with a good diagnostic performance (accuracy = 0.92, sensitivity = 0.91, specificity = 0.93), yet failed to differentiate NMOSD from MOG-AD. LETM lesions showed the highest accuracy (0.78), sensitivity (0.70), and specificity (0.97) for NMSOD.

Conclusion:

Our research suggested the utility of Cacciaguerra’s criteria in a Chinese population at disease onset. A better diagnostic performance in NMOSD could be attained with at least 3/5 conditions fulfilled. Yet their utility in distinguishing NMOSD from MOG-AD was limited.
Exploring the tourism markets’ convergence hypothesis in Italy
Authors: Pizzuto Pietro , Sciortino Caterina
Published: July 2020

This article aims at investigating the tourism markets’ convergence hypothesis across Italy’s 20 major source markets. To reach our goal, we use monthly data of tourist arrivals and overnights over the period 2008–2018 and the time-varying factor model developed by Phillips and Sul (2007, 2009). Our findings suggest the absence of full (absolute) convergence, leading us to accept the hypothesis of club convergence. We show that the traditionally more important source markets have a tendency to persist, while Asian countries show heterogeneous behaviour. Furthermore, the relative decline in the contribution to total arrivals and overnights of several international source markets calls for a reconsideration of the promotional strategies to stimulate inbound tourism from these countries.