bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Mechanisms Underlying Unexplained Air-Bone Gaps Post-Myringoplasty: Temporal Bone Model and Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Wang Jie , Wei Xingmei , Zhang Ying , Koike Takuji , Lee Sinyoung , Li Yongxin , Zhao Fei
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Air-bone gap (ABG) is an essential indicator of middle ear transfer function after myringoplasty. However, there is still uncertainty about the mechanisms behind unexplained ABGs in patients post-myringoplasty. The present study investigated these mechanisms using cadaveric temporal bone (TB) measurement and finite element (FE) modeling.

Methods

Three conditions of tympanic membrane (TM) perforation were modeled with a perforated area of 6%, 24%, and 50% of the total TM area to simulate a small, medium, or large TM perforation of TB model. A piece of paper was used to patch the TM perforation to simulate the situation post-myringoplasty. In the FE model for post-operation, the material properties at the perforation area were changed. Measurement of TM vibration at the umbo was undertaken with a laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV).

Results

As the perforated area increased vibration of the TM at the umbo decreased in both the TB and FE models. But the reduction of TM vibration is more minor in the FE model than in the TB model. After the perforation was repaired, the displacement of TM at the umbo could not be recovered totally in the TB and FE models. In the FE model, the displacement of TM at the umbo decreased markedly when the cone shape of TM flattened, and the reduction was almost the same as that in the TB model in the condition of large perforation.

Conclusion

The material properties and the anatomical shape of the repaired TM could influence the TM’s modal motion and wave motion. Except for appearance and shape current clinical instruments are unable to resolve factors that affect TM motion. Consequently the ABG seen post-myringoplasty remains unexplained.
Remapping spatiality in contemporary East Asian media engagement: reevaluating China’s Got Talent
Authors: Lu Eason
Published: August 2022

Over the past decade, production in China’s television sector have reshaped media cultures across the country as well as the geocultural region of East Asia. Through analysis of licensed reality television programs such as China’ s Got Talent, this paper examines transnational television formats and their circulation and replication in contemporary China, challenging the traditional concept that television format trade falls within a West-Rest narrative. While highlighting the cultural and media phenomena of interactive ‘glocalization’ of cultural products, this paper calls for de-westernization in approaching Chinese and East Asian media studies. It does so by pointing out unique imitating and adaptive practices of Chinese unscripted television programs, which serve as case studies to the existing literature of television business and cultures. The practice of licensing formats provides a unique perspective into analyzing China’s media strategies in a globalized industry and reviewing the current scholarship on media globalization. With a comparative analysis, the paper attempts to reconceptualize the spatiality of East Asian media production and consumption. I also include my observations while working on the production teams for these programs.
Linking fine motor skills with theory of mind in school-age children
Authors: Obeid Rita , DeNigris Danielle , Brooks Patricia J.
Published: August 2022

Motor skills have been linked to language and social development with implications for theory of mind. This study examined theory of mind (attribution of intentions task) in school-age children ( N = 62, mean age 8 years; 2 months, standard deviation [ SD] = 1;3) in relation to fine motor skills (grooved pegboard), receptive vocabulary (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test), receptive grammar (Test for the Reception of Grammar), reading comprehension (Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests), verbal short-term (nonword repetition), and visual-spatial working memory (one-shape array memory). All variables except verbal short-term memory correlated with accuracy on theory of mind. In regression models, fine motor skills accounted for variance in theory of mind after controlling for age, language, and working memory. The results add to research linking fine motor skills with faux pas understanding, indicating the potentially broad impact of motor skills on social cognition. Given the cross-sectional study design, longitudinal research is warranted to address causality.
Experiences of solitude in adulthood and old age: The role of autonomy
Authors: Nikitin Jana , Rupprecht Fiona Sophia , Ristl Christina
Published: August 2022

Recent evidence suggests that older adults experience momentary states of spending time alone (i.e., solitude) less negatively than younger adults. The current research explores the role of autonomy as an explanation mechanism of these age differences. Previous research demonstrated that solitude can be experienced positively when it is characterized by autonomy (i.e., the own wish or decision to be alone). As older adults are relatively more autonomous in their daily lives, they might experience solitude less negatively (in terms of subjective well-being, social integration, self-esteem, and valence) than younger adults. We tested this hypothesis in three studies. In two experience-sampling studies (Study 1: N = 129, 59.7% women, age 19–88 years; Study 2: N = 115, 66.4% women, age 18–85 years), older age and higher autonomy were associated with more positive experience of everyday solitude moments. Although autonomy did not differ between younger and older adults, perceived (lack of) autonomy partly played a more important role for the experience of solitude moments in younger adults compared to older adults. Finally, Study 3 ( N = 323, 52% women, age 19–79 years) showed that the relationship between recalled solitude moments of high versus low autonomy and solitude experience is fully explained by feelings of autonomy. Overall, our results demonstrate that older people do not experience more autonomy in situations of solitude than younger adults, but that they partly better cope with low-autonomy solitude. However, people of all ages seem to benefit more from high-autonomy moments of solitude.
Disturbed microcirculation and hyperaemic response in a murine model of systemic inflammation
Authors: Fruekilde Signe Kirk , Bailey Christopher J , Lambertsen Kate Lykke , Clausen Bettina Hjelm , Carlsen Jasper , Xu Ning-long , Drasbek Kim Ryun , Gutiérrez-Jiménez Eugenio
Published: August 2022

Systemic inflammation affects cognitive functions and increases the risk of dementia. This phenomenon is thought to be mediated in part by cytokines that promote neuronal survival, but the continuous exposure to which may lead to neurodegeneration. The effects of systemic inflammation on cerebral blood vessels, and their provision of adequate oxygen to support critical brain parenchymal cell functions, remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that neurovascular coupling is profoundly disturbed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced systemic inflammation in awake mice. In the 24 hours following LPS injection, the hyperaemic response of pial vessels to functional activation was attenuated and delayed. Concurrently, under steady-state conditions, the capillary network displayed a significant increase in the number of capillaries with blocked blood flow, as well as increased duration of ‘capillary stalls’—a phenomenon previously reported in animal models of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease pathology. We speculate that vascular changes and impaired oxygen availability may affect brain functions following acute systemic inflammation and contribute to the long-term risk of neurodegenerative changes associated with chronic, systemic inflammation.
O-carboxymethyl chitosan/gelatin/silver-copper hydroxyapatite composite films with enhanced antibacterial and wound healing properties
Authors: Valencia-Gómez Laura-E , Muzquiz-Ramos Elia-M , Fausto-Reyes Abril-D , Rodríguez-Arrellano Priscila-I , Rodríguez-González Claudia-A , Hernández-Paz Juan-F , Reyes-Blas Hortensia , Olivas-Armendáriz Imelda
Published: August 2022

Wound dressing composite films of O-carboxymethyl chitosan (OCMC) and gelatin were prepared and mixed with hydroxyapatite (HA) composited with Silver (Ag) and Copper (Cu) at different concentrations. The chemical, thermal, morphological, and biological properties of the composite films were studied. The analysis by FTIR confirmed the presence of interactions between gelatin and OCMC, and at the same time, the polymer matrix interactions with Ag-Cu/HA complex. The inclusion of nanoparticle to the composite was associated with an improvement of the thermal stability, morphological roughness, a 9–12% more hydrophobic behavior (composite C1, C5, and C8), increase in antibacterial activity from 23.2 to 33.1% for gram negative bacteria and from 37.28 to 40.59% for gram positive bacteria, and with a cell viability greater than 100% for 24 and 72 h. The films obtained can serve as a wound healing dressing and regenerating biomaterial.
The Power of Consumer Activism From the Kennedy Hearings to the International Code: An Interview With Leah Margulies (Part II)
Authors: Margulies Leah , Arendt Maryse
Published: August 2022

Leah Margulies was Director of the Infant Formula Program at the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility in New York City (NYC) from 1975 to 1985. She is a founder of the International Nestle Boycott, Corporate Accountability (formerly INFACT), and one of the founders of the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN). She was hired at UNICEF in 1982 to set up the legal office for implementation of the International Code of Marketing Breastmilk Substitutes, as part of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative. Previously, she was legal advisor to the Environment Unit of the United Nations Centre on Transnational Corporations. From 2006 to 2016, she was Project Director of LawHelpNY at the NYC Bar Association. Currently, she works for a legal non-profit, representing low-income Brooklynites, defending them against eviction. She is a lawyer, a Second Wave Feminist, and a member of Veteran Feminists of America. She is also a musician and founding member of a pioneering women’s rock band that played at the first national women’s march for abortion rights in Washington, DC, 1972.
A shimming method based on outer mold line control of thin-walled parts
Authors: Li Shuanggao , Hao Long , Huang Xiang , Peng Yun
Published: August 2022

Aerospace framework products typically have a thin-walled structure. To ensure the aerodynamic performance of the product, it is necessary to precisely control the shim clearance between the understructure and the skin. However, it is difficult to meet the requirements of product design by digital measurements and calculations of the shim clearance after installing parts on the final assembly or special test stand. To improve the efficiency and accuracy of the shimming process, a method to determine the shimming quantity by a flexible virtual assembly without a physical assembly process is proposed. The proposed method measures the initial shape of the assembly using digital technology that analyzes the assembled shape using a finite element model and calculates the shimming space using the assembled shape. First, the geometric information of the understructure, skin inner mold line (IML), and outer mold line (OML), or the actual pre-assembly shape, are obtained using a three-dimensional laser digitizer. The geometric features are reconstructed and the coordinate transformation matrix is then calculated. The coordinate system is unified based on the positioning features of each part, such as the positioning surface and positioning hole. Finally, the OML of the measured model and the theoretical OML are flexibly fitted to simulate the ideal state of the assembly. The shimming space between the IML and the understructure is calculated and the OML is precisely controlled by shimming. The physical verification results show that the deviation between the analysis results and the actual situation is within 0.1 mm. This method can predict the space of shimming when the OML reaches the ideal state without real assembly thereby reducing the time required for a repeated trial assembly of products and the cost of special measuring tools and conformal tools.
Do Open-Science Badges Increase Trust in Scientists Among Undergraduates, Scientists, and the Public?
Authors: Schneider Jürgen , Rosman Tom , Kelava Augustin , Merk Samuel
Published: August 2022

In three experimental studies, we investigated whether badges for open-science practices have the potential to affect trust in scientists and topic-specific epistemic beliefs by student teachers ( n = 270), social scientists ( n = 250), or the public ( n = 257), all of whom were at least 16 years old. Furthermore, we analyzed the moderating role of epistemic beliefs for badges and trust. Each participant was randomly assigned to two of three conditions: badges awarded, badges not awarded, and no badges (control). In all samples, our Bayesian analyses indicated that badges influence trust as expected, with one exception in the public sample: An additional positive effect of awarded badges (compared with no badges) was not supported. For students and scientists, we found evidence for the relation of badges and epistemic beliefs as well as epistemic beliefs and trust. Further, we found evidence for the absence of moderation by epistemic beliefs.
Kurt Lewin’s ideas are alive! But why doesn’t anybody recognize them?
Authors: Endrejat Paul C. , Burnes Bernard
Published: August 2022

Although Kurt Lewin is a key figure in the history of organizational behavior, only a few scholars or practitioners can explain why he earned this status. In order to shine light on this dissonance, we elaborate on the reasons why Lewin’s ideas are seldom discussed in today’s curricula (e.g., Lewin’s work is difficult to pin down due to his interdisciplinary interest as well as his convoluted writing style). To highlight the enduring applicability of Lewin’s approaches, we link his ideas (e.g., psychological satiation) with more recent concepts, like burnout. To support the continuing relevance of Lewin’s work, we outline how his ideas can inspire current epistemology by discussing his distinction between Aristotelian and Galilean thinking and his quest to find unexpected observations to generate new knowledge. Furthermore, as Lewin is regarded as the “practical theorist,” revisiting his work will show how theoretical concepts can influence organizational practices. Specifically, we discuss how Lewin’s ideas can improve design thinking, which is a modern team-based approach to generate innovations.
Premature ovarian failure in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus patient: A rare presentation
Authors: Tekgöz Nilüfer , Taş Demet , Çelikel Elif , Özlü Sare Gülfem , Acar Banu
Published: August 2022

A 16-year-old girl was admitted to the hospital for the absence of a menstrual bleeding over 10 mounts. She has had regular menstrual periods since she was 13 years old and no history of systemic disease. Laboratory tests showed low estrogen (<11.8 ng/L, range 16–238 ng/L), elevated FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) (138.3 U/L), low AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone) (<0.01 µg/L), normal prolactin (7 μg/L), and thyroid hormone levels (TSH: 1.5 mU/L). The ovaries were prepubertal in size and diagnosed with primer ovarian failure. ANA titers, antiphospholipid antibody, and direct coombs were positive. Microscopic hematuria and nephritic proteinuria (34 mg/m2/hour) were also detected and renal biopsy was revealed stage 3–5 lupus nephritis. Premature ovarian failure is an extremely rare disease in childhood. When POF is detected in the adolescent, it is important to investigate the etiology. In this way, it may be possible to diagnose diseases with high morbidity and mortality that may cause POF.
Perspectives and Role of GST Practitioners in Promoting GST Compliance in India
Authors: Basavanagouda  , Panduranga V.
Published: August 2022

GST is a technology-driven tax system. In Indian context, after five years of implementation, it is going through the evaluation phase. Many circulars and notifications are being issued to correct anomalies and to stabilize tax system. Given the complexities in understanding GST law and to cope up with technological aspects, it is difficult for a non-tech savvy taxpayer to comply with GST. Many taxpayers’ resort to services provided by GST practitioners and get their advice while complying with GST provisions. As GSTPs are more aware of GST issues, it becomes imperative to study their perspectives on various aspects of GST and their role in GST compliance. An attempt is being made in this study to analyse the perspectives and role of GSTPs under GST. Factor analysis has been used to identify various factors influencing compliances made by clients; reliability tests have been carried out to test the significance of factors. Most of the factors provided acceptable results. It is found that most of the clients are abrogating all their responsibilities to GSTPs, and they are seeking a variety of services. The paper provides deeper understanding of the issues under GST from the views of practitioners in the field.
Influencer Marketing and Consumer Behaviour: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Kanaveedu Aswathi , Kalapurackal Jacob Joseph
Published: August 2022

Influencer marketing is an emerging area in the field of marketing. Specifically, this topic grabs the attention of several academicians and practitioners because of the key role played by influencers to stimulate consumer behaviour. Significantly, a systematic way of analysing and summarising the works of literature in this nascent area is necessary. A systematic literature review provides a comprehensive overview of the whole literature studied. From this knowledge, a systematic literature review has been undertaken from the period of 2016 to 2021 based on 65 articles from the ABDC journal to fetch relevant research themes, methodology, theories, variables, antecedents and consequences and potential research gaps. From this information, this research proposed an integrative framework which depicts the role of social media influencers in activating consumer behaviour. Future research direction has presented comprising of knowledge gap in the existing literature from key areas such as theory, methodology and settings. This research provides implications for both theories and practice.
EEG-ERP Correlates of Cognitive Dysfunction in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Showkath Neethu , Sinha Meenakshi , Ghate Jayshri R. , Agrawal Sarita , Mandal Sucharita , Sinha Ramanjan
Published: August 2022

Background

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has been shown to affect the psychological and cognitive status of a woman. However, amidst various conflicting reports in this regard, very few studies attempted to assess these aspects objectively using electroencephalography (EEG) and event-related potential (ERP).

Purpose

To assess changes in neurocognitive and psychological parameters of PCOS women without any other comorbidities.

Methods

PCOS women aged 18 years to 35 years, diagnosed from obstetrics and gynecology OPD who are otherwise free of any other comorbidities, were assessed for psychological status (anxiety and depression using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory, respectively). Thereafter, a cognitive assessment was done subjectively by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) questionnaire and objectively by using EEG [absolute and relative power of alpha, beta, and theta waves along with theta/beta ratios (TBR) and theta/alpha ratio (TAR)] and P300 amplitude and latency of ERP during a visual oddball paradigm task in control ( n = 30) and PCOS ( n = 37) subjects.

Results

PCOS women showed significantly higher anxiety and depression scores along with low MoCA scores. Significantly reduced absolute alpha, increased frontal beta, and markedly increased theta (relative) power with increased TAR in the PCOS group were seen. Also, a significant reduction in P300 amplitude with prolonged latency during the visual oddball paradigm task was evident in them.

Conclusion

Reduced alpha and higher theta activity with increased TAR are indicative of poor neural processing ability. Reduced P300 amplitude with more latency also suggests a cognitive decline, which is corroborated by reduced MoCA scores. Our study objectively indicates the presence of subclinical cognitive impairment in PCOS patients even without any comorbidities.
Local Women and Building the Peace: Narratives from Africa
Authors: Cocodia Jude
Published: August 2022

Inadequate attention is given to the influence of local women in fostering peace. Scholars and policymakers in striving to plug this deficit now pay more attention to the contributions women make to peace. This article supports this reorientation and makes a case for encouraging local women in peace processes by pointing out the difficulties in ending conflict when they channel their efforts to conflict exacerbation out of being denied formal spaces to contribute to peace. Using events from the conflict in Liberia (1989–2003), Burundi (1993–2005) and Sudan’s Darfur (2007 to date), this study points to the significance of harnessing the energies of local women in forging peace during conflict and sustaining it post conflict. Using descriptive analysis, this article argues in support of conventional feminist thought that the absence of women from peace initiatives conjures a vital missing link in achieving stability.
Promoting International Student Mobility for Sustainability? Navigating Conflicting Realities and Emotions of International Educators
Authors: Campbell Anne C. , Nguyen Thi , Stewart Maia
Published: August 2022

In international education, climate change is an increasingly prominent consideration. International mobility contributes to global carbon emissions yet provides students with skills and knowledge to address climate change. Based on interviews with 17 individuals working in international education, this qualitative study illuminates how international educators view climate change: both as a threat and an opportunity for the field. When considering and mitigating international education's carbon emissions, interviewees reported mostly negative emotions: feeling stuck, frustrated, and overwhelmed. Interviewees also noted difficulties in logically and ethically reconciling the relationship, especially with student mobility as a key component of international education, providing several rationales for expanding international education to promote social and environmental justice. Notably, interviewees called for a reimagining of the field with more virtual exchanges and less air travel. Findings aim to inform higher education internationalization efforts – and student mobility specifically – in a time of climate crisis.
Primary Cylindroma of the Breast with Brisk Mitosis: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Liu Haijun , Wei Chun’e , Ding Huaye , Zhang Hongkai
Published: August 2022

Primary cylindroma of the breast is extremely rare. To the best of our knowledge, there have been only 18 tumors reported. All of them were benign and had no mitosis. However, the rarity of this entity made the correct diagnosis preoperatively very difficult. Here we present a unique cylindroma with focal brisk mitosis and largest diameter of 5cm in an 80-year woman, she was misdiagnosed as adenoid cystic carcinoma in biopsy and then underwent a radical breast resection. We reviewed the related literature and emphasized differential diagnosis.
An Application of the Risk Information Seeking and Processing Model in Understanding College Students’ COVID-19 Vaccination Information Seeking and Behavior
Authors: Zhou Xin , Roberto Anthony J.
Published: August 2022

This study tested the utility of risk information seeking and processing (RISP) model in understanding college students’ information seeking about COVID-19 vaccines and their vaccination behavior. Participants ( N = 158) completed a survey measuring the RISP constructs at Time 1 and their COVID-19 vaccination behavior at Time 2. The RISP model explained 71.1% of the variance in COVID-19 vaccine information seeking. Risk information seeking and attitude toward the COVID-19 vaccine positively influenced college students’ intentions to get the vaccine, which positively predicted their vaccination behavior. Overall, these variables explained 33.4% of the variance in COVID-19 vaccine intention, and 37.2% of the variance in COVID-19 vaccination behavior.
Pharmacy utilization of electronic patient-reported outcomes in oncology populations
Authors: Aschermann Lauren M , Berger Michael , Vargo Craig , Collins Stephanie , Kennerly-Shah Julie
Published: August 2022

Telehealth applications are demonstrated to be useful tools for patients with cancer to facilitate improvements in quality of care. The use of electronic patient-reported outcomes is one way to leverage telehealth to better understand outcomes important to patients. However, use of electronic patient-reported outcomes and direct involvement of pharmacists is not yet a standard practice across cancer centers. The use of pharmacist-led telehealth services offers a unique opportunity for pharmacists to provide cost-effective and convenient patient care interventions. This survey work describes the current practices of pharmacy utilization of electronic patient-reported outcomes in oncology populations at National Comprehensive Cancer Network member institutions. Of survey respondents, only 33% of the institutions reported current engagement with electronic patient-reported outcomes. These initiatives largely focused on symptom management. Limitations in staff, resources, and competing priorities limit many institutions from introducing or expanding upon direct pharmacist involvement in electronic patient-reported outcomes. Further work developing the involvement of pharmacists in electronic patient-reported outcomes will be an important way to leverage the growing landscape of telehealth within oncology and highlight the value of the pharmacist.
Development of the Services, Policies and Programs Audit Tool to Address Campus Sexual Violence
Authors: McMahon Sarah , Cusano Julia , Macri Lisa , Chen Amanda
Published: August 2022

Evidence suggests that resources to address campus sexual violence (CSV) are inconsistently offered across institutions of higher education (IHE), and thus there is a need for campuses to continually assess their provision of resources and services to improve the climate and well-being of students. Conducting a periodical scan of resources provided is one way for IHE to assess their adherence to best practices. The current study describes the development of the Services, Policies and Programs Audit (SPPA) tool, created to help IHE evaluate their adherence with best practices related to the provision of services, policies, and programs on campus. The tool was piloted with 18 individuals from 12 different IHE across the country. Exploratory evaluation of the SPPA indicates that it may be a useful tool for self-examination of campus policies, services, and prevention and education efforts. Participants from the 12 IHE who participated in the pilot generally reported that the SPPA was helpful to their efforts. Interrater reliability results indicated that the position of the person who completes the tool impacts the scoring, with those who are more familiar with CSV services scoring higher. This aligns with other research indicating that it is important not only to have resources on campus to address CSV but also to ensure that the campus community is aware of them. The SPPA can potentially serve as one part of a larger toolkit used by IHE to assess their efforts to address CSV.
Comparative Analyses of Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors
Authors: Guha Mausumee , Sobol Zhanna , Martin Mathew , Hemkens Michelle , Sung Tae , Rubitski Elizabeth , Spellman Richard , Finkelstein Martin , Khan Nasir , Hu Wenyue
Published: August 2022

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) are approved as monotherapies in BRCA1/2-mutated (m BRCA1/2) metastatic breast and ovarian cancers, and in advanced pancreatic and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancers. Differential safety profiles across PARPi necessitate improved mechanistic understanding of inhibitor differences, especially with expansion of PARPi indications and drug combinations. Here, we report in vitro evaluations of PARPi (–/+ PARP trapper temozolomide, TMZ) with reference to total clinical mean concentration average or maximum (tCavg, tCmax), to elucidate contributions of primary pharmacology and structural differences to clinical efficacy and safety. In biochemical assays, rucaparib and niraparib demonstrated off-target secondary pharmacology activities, and in selectivity assays, talazoparib, olaparib, and rucaparib inhibited a broader panel of PARP enzymes. In donor-derived human bone marrow mononuclear cells, only olaparib both increased early apoptosis and decreased the cell viability half inhibitory concentration (IC50) at ≤ tCavg, whereas other PARPi only did so in the presence of TMZ. In cancer cell lines with DNA damage repair mutations, all PARPi decreased cell viability in H1048 but not TK6 cells, and only talazoparib decreased cell growth in DU145 cells at ≤ tCavg concentrations. When combined with low dose TMZ, only talazoparib left-shifted the functional consequences of PARP trapping (S-phase arrest, apoptosis, S-phase double-stranded breaks) and reduced cell viability/growth in TK6 and DU145 cell lines at ≤ tCavg, whereas the other inhibitors required high-dose TMZ. Our study suggests structural differences across PARPi may contribute to differences in PARP selectivity and off-target activities, which along with distinct pharmacokinetic properties, may influence inhibitor-specific toxicities in patients.
Tangata Hourua: a framework drawing from Kaupapa Māori and Pacific research methodologies
Authors: Mullane Tania , Harwood Matire , Warbrick Isaac
Published: August 2022

Despite a growing amount of research with Māori and Pacific people in Aotearoa New Zealand, frameworks that support robust research methodologies with these peoples are limited. This is particularly so for research involving both Māori and Pacific people, which acknowledges the connections between the two and the uniqueness of all Pacific people. Tangata Hourua (Strength in Combining) is a research framework developed in response to this gap, drawing from Kaupapa Māori (Māori principles) and Pacific methodologies, that seeks to uphold the rights of Māori as Indigenous people of Aotearoa, whilst giving voice to Pacific peoples living here with shared or connected whakapapa (family connections). This article describes the framework’s origins, its relationship to Kaupapa Māori and Pacific research methodologies, key principles in its application, and its strengths and limitations. The framework has the potential to be utilised in research that positively contributes to both Māori and Pacific knowledge and well-being.
Influence of β1 Adrenergic Receptor Genotype on Longitudinal Measures of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Responsiveness to ß-Blocker Therapy in Patients With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Kelley Eli F , Cross Troy J , McDonald Craig M , Investigators CINRG , Hoffman Eric P , Spurney Christopher F , Bello Luca
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the longitudinal progression of decline in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients is moderated by ADRB1 genotype and whether the efficacy of ß-blocker therapy is influenced by genotype status. About 147 DMD patients (6-34 years.) were analyzed with a focus on β1 adrenergic receptor (ADRB1) genotype variants. Patients were grouped by ADRB1 genotype resulting in Gly389 patients and Arg389 patients. A generalized additive mixed effects model was used to examine differences in the nonlinear trend of LVEF across patient ages between genotype groups and for ß-blocker use. Both genotype groups displayed a progressive decline in LVEF starting around the mean age of ambulation loss (~12 years). However, there was no difference between genotype groups in the progression of decline in LVEF. There was a significant effect of ß-blocker use on longitudinal LVEF, wherein patients on ß-blockers had systematically lower LVEF when compared to patients not on ß-blockers. However, the effect of ß-blocker therapy on LVEF was not affected by ADRB1 genotype. The current study did not demonstrate an influence of patient ADRB1 genotype on longitudinal LVEF in our cohort. Despite previous literature suggesting a positive influence of ß-blocker use on cardiac function in DMD patients and of an ADRB1 genotypic difference in responsiveness to ß-blocker use, we did not observe this in our cohort. Interestingly, our cohort did not demonstrate a positive influence of ß-blocker use on LVEF measures.
Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction Screening by a Smartphone-Case Based on Single Lead ECG
Authors: Kuznetsova Natalia , Gubina Anastasiia , Sagirova Zhanna , Dhif Ines , Gognieva Daria , Melnichuk Anna , Orlov Oleg , Syrkina Elena , Sedov Vsevolod , Chomakhidze Petr , Saner Hugo , Kopylov Philippe
Published: August 2022

Aims:

To investigate the potential of a signal processed by smartphone-case based on single lead electrocardiogram (ECG) for left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) determination as a screening method.

Methods and Results:

We included 446 subjects for sample learning and 259 patients for sample test aged 39 to 74 years for testing with 2D-echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging and ECG using a smartphone-case based single lead ECG monitor for the assessment of LVDD. Spectral analysis of ECG signals (spECG) has been used in combination with advanced signal processing and artificial intelligence methods. Wavelengths slope, time intervals between waves, amplitudes at different points of the ECG complexes, energy of the ECG signal and asymmetry indices were analyzed. The QTc interval indicated significant diastolic dysfunction with a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 65%, a Tpeak parameter >590 ms with 63% and 58%, a T value off >695 ms with 63% and 74%, and QRSfi > 674 ms with 74% and 57%, respectively. A combination of the threshold values from all 4 parameters increased sensitivity to 86% and specificity to 70%, respectively (OR 11.7 [2.7-50.9], P < .001). Algorithm approbation have shown: Sensitivity—95.6%, Specificity—97.7%, Diagnostic accuracy—96.5% and Repeatability—98.8%.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate a great potential of a smartphone-case based on single lead ECG as novel screening tool for LVDD if spECG is used in combination with advanced signal processing and machine learning technologies.
Videographic profanations: A companion to the videography “Pride: Alternative Entrepreneurship Enjoyed”
Authors: Redmalm David , Skoglund Annika
Published: August 2022

This article is a companion to “Pride: Alternative Entrepreneurship Enjoyed,” a videography about the company Prezi’s engagement in the Budapest Pride parade. The aim is to advance video ethnographic methods within Organization and Management Studies (OMS) based on Agamben’s profanatory philosophical method, which puts into focus abstract “sacred” concepts and returns them to the sphere of the profane—of the everyday. A profanatory approach of use for OMS accounts for organizations, brands, and management in a way that do not reproduce their “sacredness”—entrepreneurial myths and management clichés. Instead, by opening them up to critical exposure, they can be moved from a “religious canon” of communication strategies, press releases, and policy documents, to everyday profane work. Through a methodological discussion of the videography, we show three ways in which profanation re-positions the myth of alternative entrepreneurship: by engaging in the logic of the sacred, by playing with notions of inside and outside, and by using musical soundtrack as an expressive tool. We suggest that these methodological strategies advance the analytical possibilities within video ethnography, also useful for other organizational phenomena, especially when economic interests are combined with ambitions of social change and ideals of self-realization.
Longitudinal clinical study of patients with iron rim lesions in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Altokhis Amjad I , Hibbert Aimee M , Allen Christopher M , Mougin Olivier , Alotaibi Abdulmajeed , Lim Su-Yin , Constantinescu Cris S , Abdel-Fahim Rasha , Evangelou Nikos
Published: August 2022

Background:

Iron rims (IRs) surrounding white matter lesions (WMLs) are suggested to predict a more severe disease course. Only small longitudinal cohorts of patients with and without iron rim lesions (IRLs) have been reported so far.

Objective:

To assess whether the presence and number of IRLs in patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and multiple sclerosis (MS) are associated with long-term disability or progressive disease.

Methods:

Ninety-one CIS/MS patients were recruited between 2008 and 2013 and scanned with 7 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used to calculate Age-related Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (ARMSS) at the time of scan and at the latest clinical follow-up after 9 years. WMLs were assessed for the presence of IRL using Susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI)-filtered phase images.

Results:

In all, 132 IRLs were detected in 42 patients (46%); 9% of WMLs had IRs; 54% of the cohort had no rims, 30% had 1–3 rims and 16% had ⩾4. Patients with IRL had a higher EDSS and ARMSS. Presence of IRL was also a predictor of long-term disability, especially in patients with ⩾4 IRLs. IRLs have a greater impact on disability compared to the WML number and volume.

Conclusion:

The presence and number of perilesional IR on MRI hold prognostic value for long-term clinical disability in MS.
Phasicity and resistance of the arterial spectral Doppler waveform in a canine femoral focal artery stenosis model
Authors: Zhao Rui , Zheng Haining , Wang Wei , Du Yigang , Tong Yisha , Mahé Guillaume , Wen Chaoyang
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

This study aims to evaluate changes in the arterial spectral Doppler waveform in a canine artery stenosis model.

Methods:

Canine femoral artery stenosis models were established in 12 beagle dogs. Doppler waveforms were recorded in the femoral artery preoperatively and postoperatively in the femoral artery and at the ankle after formation of a 50%, 70%, and 90% stenosis or occlusion. Major descriptors for arterial Doppler waveform were used to analyse waveforms.

Results:

The proportion of multiphasic waveforms proximal to a moderate stenosis decreased compared to normal baseline, although the difference was not statistically significant, whereas the decreases at the stenosis, distal to the stenosis, and at the ankle were significant ( p < 0.05). The decreases in arteries with a more severe stenosis or occlusion were significant at all locations ( p < 0.05). The proportion of high resistive waveforms decreased significantly at the ankle in the arteries with a moderate stenosis (50%) ( p = 0.002), but the decreases proximal to, at, and distal to the stenosis were not significant. The decreases were significant at all locations in the arteries with a more severe stenosis ( p < 0.05). The decrease was significant at the ankle in the arteries with an occlusion ( p < 0.001) but not significant pre, at, and post an occlusion.

Conclusions:

Phasicity and resistance of Doppler waveforms alter in canine femoral arteries with a stenosis. Phasicity change seems more sensitive in response to an arterial stenosis than resistance change. Additional information on arterial resistance could be obtained using end-diastolic ratios, resistive indices, and potentially end-systolic notch velocity measurements.
Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis in mastectomy: A retrospective comparative analysis of 1413 patients with breast cancer
Authors: Tamminen Anselm , Koskivuo Ilkka
Published: August 2022

Background and objective:

The reported rate of surgical site infections (SSIs) in breast cancer surgery varies widely in previous literature. The use of antibiotic prophylaxis is controversial but recommended by several guidelines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of routine antibiotic prophylaxis in patients with breast cancer undergoing mastectomy.

Methods:

In this retrospective single-institution study, we reviewed 1413 consecutive female breast cancer patients who underwent mastectomy and/or axillary lymph node surgery between years 2012 and 2019. Prophylactic antibiotics for all patients undergoing mastectomy was introduced in our hospital in 2016 and before that the prophylaxis was prescribed individually on surgeons’ preference. All patient records for 30 postoperative days were evaluated in detail and all SSIs were recorded. The rate of SSIs was compared between patients who received antibiotic prophylaxis and those who did not. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to define the odds ratio (OR) for the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis.

Results:

A total of 335 patients underwent mastectomy without antibiotic prophylaxis and 1078 with prophylaxis. The rate of SSIs was 6.9% in patients who received prophylaxis and 6.3% in patients without prophylaxis ( p = 0.70). The rate of SSIs was similar before and after the introduction of regular antibiotic prophylaxis and there was no difference in any of the patient subgroups investigated. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, the OR for antibiotic prophylaxis was 1.04 (95% CI: 0.62–1.73, p = 0.88).

Conclusions:

Routine use of antibiotic prophylaxis did not reduce the rate of SSIs in mastectomy. Unselective antibiotic prophylaxis for all patients does not seem mandatory in mastectomy.
The spatial and temporal development of British prisons from 1901 to the present: The role of de-industrialisation
Authors: Jones Phil Mike , Gray Emily , Farrall Stephen
Published: August 2022

This paper combines archival data and statistical analysis to investigate the context-specific ways that prisons expanded and affected communities in the UK, focusing closely on the role of the UK's political economy. We present evidence of a significant increase of prisons in the counties where the coal-mining industry was dismantled during the 1980s and 1990s. We identify former coal-mining areas based on Coal Mining Reporting Areas and the methodology used by Beatty and Fothergill (1996) and test if more prisons were opened in former coal-mining areas than non-coal-mining areas per capita post-closures. Using Poisson regression analyses and controlling for population changes, we found that coal-mining counties were significantly more likely to acquire a new prison between 1981 and 2001 than those areas which were not affected by de-industrialisation. We apply Derrida's thinking on hauntology to reexamine the spatial legacy of Thatcherism in these communities as a means to understand history and culture, and the unraveling of the past, present, and future.
Epicardial adipose tissue and right ventricular function in type 2 diabetes mellitus using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Song Xiang-ting , Zhang Ping-yang , Fan Li , Rui Yi-fei
Published: August 2022

Background

Epicardial adipose tissue is an emerging cardiovascular risk factor. The aim of this study was to evaluate right ventricular function and investigate its association with EAT in T2DM patients.

Methods

154 T2DM patients were divided into two groups according to EAT thickness: T2DM with EAT <5 mm and T2DM with EAT ≥5 mm. Seventy non-T2DM patients were enrolled as control group. RV function was evaluated using both conventional echocardiography as well as two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography. EAT thickness was measured as the echo-free space between the free wall of the right ventricle and the visceral layer of pericardium at end-systole.

Results

Compared to control group, EAT thickness was significantly higher and RV systolic function and early diastolic function are all impaired in all T2DM patients. In T2DM with EAT ≥5 mm group, RV systolic function and early diastolic function suffered more severe impairment when compared with T2DM with EAT <5 mm group. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that EAT was associated with RV systolic and early diastolic dysfunction independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions

Our research suggest that in T2DM patients RV systolic function and early diastolic function are all impaired which are associated with the thickened EAT.
Shared and specific biological signalling pathways for diabetic retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy and nephropathy by high-throughput sequencing analysis
Authors: Zhu Hui , Chen Yan-ming , Gong Wei-kun , Lai Jing-bo , Yao Bin-bin , Zhao Zhi-jia , Lu Qin-kang , Ye Ke , Ji Lin-dan , Xu Jin
Published: August 2022

Objectives

We aimed to explore the shared and specific signalling pathways involved in diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and diabetic nephropathy (DN).

Methods

Differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs were identified by high-throughput sequencing. Subsequently, functional enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis and lncRNAs-mRNAs networks were conducted to determine the pathogenic mechanisms underlying DR, DPN and DN.

Results

Twenty-six biological pathways were shared among DR, DPN and DN groups compared to the type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) group without complications, and most of the shared pathways and core proteins were involved in immune and inflammatory responses of microvascular damage. Cytokine‒cytokine receptor interactions and chemokine signalling pathway were the most significant and specific pathways for DR, and the lncRNA‒mRNA regulatory networks affected DR by targeting these pathways. Sphingolipid metabolism and neuroactive ligand-receptor pathways were found to be specific for the pathogenesis of DPN. Moreover, multiple amino acid metabolic pathways were involved in the occurrence and progression of DN.

Conclusions

Diabetic retinopathy, DPN and DN exhibited commonality and heterogeneity simultaneously. The shared pathologic mechanisms underlying these diabetic complications are involved in diabetic microvascular damage via immune and inflammatory pathways. Our findings predict several biomarkers and therapeutic targets for these diabetic complications.
Characteristics of Sexual Homicide Offenders Focusing on Child Victims: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Page Josefa , Tzani-Pepelasi Kalliopi , Gavin Helen
Published: August 2022

The topic of sexual homicide encompasses various categories of both offender and victim and much research has shown that there are different typologies of sexual homicide offender (SHO). The aim of this study was to review the current literature regarding sexual homicides, with a focus on those SHOs that targeted children. Studies were selected for review based on the samples utilized. Studies that used a mixed sample of sexual homicide, for example, serial/non-serial, adult/child victim, stranger/non-stranger relationship were included, as well as those that exclusively investigated sexual killers of children. Relevant studies were found by utilizing online libraries and databases. Research studies ( n = 39) and review studies ( n = 3) were deemed suitable to be included in this review. Offender and victim characteristics, as well as crime scene behaviors, offender’s previous convictions, psychopathologies and paraphilias were reported. Geographical profiling of sexual homicides was also discussed. The review highlighted the current typologies of SHOs, including the Sadistic/Angry/Opportunistic model and the only current model dedicated to SHOs of children. There are mixed findings within this topic which may be caused by different cultures or different samples. Limitations, such as small sample sizes and the lack of comparison between sub-types of SHOs, were discussed. Suggestions for future research, including further exclusive study of sexual killers of children, were recommended.