bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cochlear Implantation in Inner Ear Malformations: Considerations Related to Surgical Complications and Communication Skills
Authors: Karamert Recep , Tutar Hakan , Altinyay Şenay , Düzlü Mehmet , Yildiz Merve , Akdulum İsmail , Uğur Mehmet Birol , Çolak Mustafa , Cebeci Süleyman , Şahin Muammer Melih , Orçan Elçin , Bayazit Yıldırım Ahmet
Published: September 2021

Introduction: There are particular challenges in the implantation of malformed cochleae, such as in cases of facial nerve anomalies, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, erroneous electrode insertion, or facial stimulation, and the outcomes may differ depending on the severity of the malformation. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of inner ear malformations (IEMs) on surgical complications and outcomes of cochlear implantation. Methods: In order to assess the impact of IEMs on cochlear implant (CI) outcomes, 2 groups of patients with similar epidemiological parameters were selected from among 863 patients. Both the study group (patients with an IEM) and control group (patients with a normal inner ear) included 25 patients who received a CI and completed at least 1 year of follow-up. Auditory performance, receptive and expressive language skills, and production and use of speech were evaluated preoperatively and at least 1 year after implantation. Types of surgical complications and rates of revision surgeries were determined in each group. Results: In the study group, the most common malformation was an isolated enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) (44.8%). Overall, the patients with IEMs showed significant improvement in auditory-verbal skills. In general, the patients who had normal cochleae scored significantly better compared to patients with IEMs (p < 0.05). The complication rate was significantly lower in the control group compared to the study group (p = 0.001), but the rate of revision surgeries did not differ significantly (p = 0.637). Conclusion: It is possible to improve communication skills with CIs in patients with IEMs despite the variations in postoperative performances. Patients with EVA, incomplete partition type 2, and cochlear hypoplasia type 2 were the best performers in terms of auditory-verbal skills. Patients with IEMs scored poorly compared to patients with normal cochleae. CSF leak (gusher or oozing) was the most common complication during surgery, which is highly likely in cases of incomplete partition type 3.
Lack of Oncological Benefit from Bursectomy in Radical Gastrectomy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Garg Pankaj Kumar , Jakhetiya Ashish , Turaga Kiran Kalyan , Kumar Rahul , Brandl Andreas , Rau Beate
Published: September 2021

Background: Resection of the omental bursa has been suggested to reduce peritoneal recurrence and facilitate a complete oncological resection during a gastrectomy. The addition of this procedure increases technical complexity and prolongs the procedure. Published data regarding the oncological benefit of this procedure are conflicting. We hypothesized that a bursectomy during a radical gastrectomy does not improve overall survival. Methods: In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline, a comprehensive literature search of 3 electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Embase) was conducted to identify the clinical studies that compared bursectomy with no-bursectomy in radical gastrectomy for gastric adenocarcinoma. Qualitative and quantitative data synthesis was performed using RevMan software. A random-/fixed-effect modeling was used depending upon the heterogeneity. Bias and quality assessment tools were applied. The study was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42019116556). Results: Of 8 studies assessing the role of bursectomy in gastric adenocarcinoma, 6 (75%) were included – of which 2 (33%) are randomized controlled trials. Of 2,904 patients, 1,273 (%) underwent a bursectomy. There was no statistically significant difference in either overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.89, 95% CI 0.75–1.06, I2 = 14%) or disease recurrence (HR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.84–1.20, I2 = 22%) in the bursectomy group compared to the no-bursectomy group. Conclusion: There is no additional oncological benefit of adding bursectomy to radical gastrectomy in all patients with gastric adenocarcinoma.
Delayed Perforation of an Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segment into the Anterior Chamber: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Moshirfar Majid , Milner Dallin C. , Martheswaran Tanisha , McCabe Shannon E. , Ronquillo Yasmyne C. , Hoopes Phillip C.
Published: September 2021

Intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRSs) are an effective treatment for stabilizing and normalizing corneal shape in patients with keratoconus and other corneal ectasias. Intraoperative segment perforation through the corneal endothelium into the anterior chamber (AC) is an uncommon but known complication. However, perforation into the AC postoperatively is an exceedingly rare complication with only 3 reported cases in the literature. One case was due to Descemet membrane detachment and another due to ocular trauma. In the third case, the mechanism for perforation was unclear. We present the fourth case of delayed ICRS perforation due to silent migration through the endothelium into the AC. We also present all reported cases in the literature of intraoperative and postoperative perforation into the AC.
Variants in 46,XY DSD-Related Genes in Syndromic and Non-Syndromic Small for Gestational Age Children with Hypospadias
Authors: Leitao Braga Barbara , Lisboa Gomes Nathalia , Nishi Mirian Y. , Freire Bruna L. , Batista Rafael L. , D. Faria Junior Jose A. , Funari Mariana F.A. , Figueredo Benedetti Anna F. , de Moraes Narcizo Amanda , Cavalca Cardoso Lais , Lerario Antonio M. , Guerra-Junior Gil , Frade Costa Elaine M. , Domenice Sorahia , Jorge Alexander A.L. , Mendonca Berenice B.
Published: September 2021

Hypospadias is a common congenital disorder of male genital formation. Children born small for gestational age (SGA) present a high frequency of hypospadias of undetermined etiology. No previous study investigated the molecular etiology of hypospadias in boys born SGA using massively parallel sequencing. Our objective is to report the genetic findings of a cohort of patients born SGA with medium or proximal hypospadias. We identified 46 individuals with this phenotype from a large cohort of 46,XY DSD patients, including 5 individuals with syndromic features. DNA samples from subjects were studied by either whole exome sequencing or target gene panel approach. Three of the syndromic patients have 5 main clinical features of Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS) and were first studied by MLPA. Among the syndromic patients, loss of DNA methylation at the imprinting control region H19/IGF2 was identified in 2 individuals with SRS clinical diagnosis. Two novel pathogenic variants in compound heterozygous state were identified in the CUL7 gene establishing the diagnosis of 3M syndrome in one patient, and a novel homozygous variant in TRIM37 was identified in another boy with Mulibrey nanism phenotype. Among the non-syndromic subjects, 7 rare heterozygous variants were identified in 6 DSD-related genes. However, none of the variants found can explain the phenotype by themselves. In conclusion, a genetic defect that clarifies the etiology of hypospadias was not found in most of the non-syndromic SGA children, supporting the hypothesis that multifactorial causes, new genes, and/or unidentified epigenetic defects may have an influence in this condition.
Endostatin in Renal and Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Li Mei , Popovic Zoran , Chu Chang , Krämer Bernhard K. , Hocher Berthold
Published: September 2021

Endostatin, a protein derived from the cleavage of collagen XVIII by the action of proteases, is an endogenous inhibitor known for its ability to inhibit proliferation and migration of endothelial cells, angiogenesis, and tumor growth. Angiogenesis is defined as the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, which is crucial in many physiological processes, such as embryogenesis, tissue regeneration, and neoplasia. Summary: Increasing evidence shows that dysregulation of angiogenesis is crucial for the pathogenesis of renal and cardiovascular diseases. Endostatin plays a pivotal role in the regulation of angiogenesis. Recent studies have provided evidence that circulating endostatin increases significantly in patients with kidney and heart failure and may also contribute to disease progression. Key Message: In the current review, we summarize the latest findings on preclinical and clinical studies analyzing the impact of endostatin on renal and cardiovascular diseases.
Congenital Internal Hernia: Rare Cause of Acute Abdominal Pain
Authors: Patel Jay , Hamedi Antoine , Khalil Muhammad , El-Bahri Jessica
Published: September 2021

Acute abdominal pain is a common presenting symptom that possesses a wide differential. Congenital internal hernias are a rare condition that often presents with abdominal pain and can lead to obstruction. Early diagnosis is often difficult and therefore can present acutely and in an emergent setting. Prompt recognition of symptoms and evaluation are important to prevent poor prognosis. We are presenting a case of a congenital internal hernia in a patient presenting with nonspecific symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and subsequent surgical intervention allowed for appropriate management and resolution of symptoms.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Abemaciclib plus Fulvestrant versus Placebo plus Fulvestrant in Patients with Hormone Receptor-Positive, ERBB2-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Xie Qian , Zheng Hanrui , Li Qiu
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Abemaciclib is a selective and potent small-molecule inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6) which is administered orally. Compared to placebo plus fulvestrant (PF), abemaciclib plus fulvestrant (AF) significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). However, an economic evaluation of these two treatments is currently lacking. The purpose of this article was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the two treatments for HR+, HER2− advanced breast cancer (ABC) in the USA. Methods: A Markov simulation model was constructed using data from a published clinical trial (MONARCH 2). The two simulated treatment strategies included AF or PF. Costs were obtained from the clinical trials and the website, and utility was derived from the published literature. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated to compare the two treatment strategies. Results: The total costs were USD 400,377.43 and USD 89,937.77 for AF and PF treatment, respectively. The AF treatment produced 2.09 long-term quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and the PF treatment produced 1.08 QALYs. Hence, patients who received AF treatment spent an additional USD 310,439.66 and generated an increase of 1.01 QALYs, resulting in an ICER of USD 307,366 per QALY. At current prices, AF was not cost-effective assuming a willingness-to-pay threshold of USD 150,000 per QALY gained. Conclusion: Despite significant gains in PFS over AF, it is not a cost-effective treatment for HR+, HER2− ABC in the USA at current drug prices.
Bioreactance Cardiac Output Trending Ability in Preterm Infants: A Single Centre, Longitudinal Study
Authors: Van Wyk Lizelle , Smith Johan , Lawrenson John , Lombard Carl J. , de Boode Willem-Pieter
Published: September 2021

Introduction: It is unknown whether bioreactance (BR) can accurately track cardiac output (CO) changes in preterm neonates. Methods: A prospective observational longitudinal study was performed in stable preterm infants (<37 weeks) during the first 72 h of life. Stroke volume (SV) and CO, as measured by BR and transthoracic echocardiography, were compared. Results: The mean gestational age (GA) was 31.3 weeks and mean birth weight (BW) was 1,563 g. Overall, 690 measurements were analysed for trending ability by 4-quadrant and polar plots. For non-weight-indexed measurements, 377 (54.6%) lay outside the 5% exclusion zone, the concordance rate was poor (77.2%) with a high mean angular bias (28.6°), wide limits of agreement and a poor angular concordance rate (17.4%). Neither GA, BW nor respiratory support mode affected trending data. Patent ductus arteriosus, postnatal age, and CO level had variable effects on trending data. Trending data for 5 and 10% exclusion zones were also compared. Conclusion: The ability of BR to track changes in CO is not interchangeable with CO changes as measured by echocardiography. BR, as a trend monitor for changes in CO or SV to determine clinical decisions around interventions in neonatology, should be used with caution.
Review of the Physiology and Anesthetic Considerations for Pleuroscopy/Medical Thoracoscopy
Authors: Kostroglou Andreas , Kapetanakis Emmanouil I. , Rougeris Loizos , Froudarakis Marios E. , Sidiropoulou Tatiana
Published: September 2021

Pleuroscopy or medical thoracoscopy is the second most common utilized procedure after bronchoscopy in the promising field of interventional pulmonology. Its main application is for the diagnosis and management of benign or malignant pleural effusions. Entry into the hemithorax is associated with pain and patient discomfort, whereas concurrently, notable pathophysiologic alterations occur. Therefore, frequently procedural sedation and analgesia is needed, not only to alleviate the patient’s emotional stress and discomfort by mitigating the anxiety and minimizing the pain but also for yielding better procedural conditions for the operator. The scope of this review is to present the physiologic derangements occurring in pleuroscopy and compare the various anesthetic techniques and sedative agents that are currently being used in this context.
Breast Reconstruction: Necessity for Further Standardization of the Current Surgical Techniques Attempting to Facilitate Scientific Evaluation and Select Tailored Individualized Procedures Optimizing Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Tampaki Ekaterini Christina , Tampakis Athanasios
Published: September 2021

Background: Various breast cancer reconstruction methods and novel surgical techniques include autologous or allogenic procedures, which can increase patient’s quality of life and provide options when dealing with patients seen as challenging clinical scenarios. Summary: Our aim was to review the current literature and present published evidence on innovative standards in whole breast reconstruction. Advances in flap monitoring or newly published data regarding neurotization in breast reconstruction, arm lymphedema management, breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma reconstruction treatment, and robotic surgery with regard to radiotherapy define innovative standards in the breast reconstruction setting. The role of meshes/acellular dermal matrix and fat grafting as well as optimal sequencing of postmastectomy radiotherapy in autologous and alloplastic breast reconstruction appear highly debatable also in expert panel meetings rendering further clinical research including RCTs imperative. Key Messages: There is an abundance of novel available techniques, which mandate further standardization, facilitating scientific evaluation in an attempt to help surgeons select tailored procedures for each patient with the goal to promote informed decision-making in breast reconstruction.
TMS-Induced Seizure during FDA-Approved Bilateral DMPFC Protocol for Treating OCD: A Case Report
Authors: Mikellides Georgios , Michael Panayiota , Schuhmann Teresa , Sack Alexander T
Published: September 2021

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation therapy that has become a method of choice for the treatment of several neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and OCD. It is considered to be a safe and well-tolerated treatment, with only few side effects. The most serious adverse event during any rTMS treatment is the potential induction of a seizure. rTMS has shown very encouraging results for treatment-resistant OCD, although the optimal target area and the stimulation frequency are still matters of controversy. Here, we present a 19-year-old female patient with OCD who experienced seizure during the 7th session of her rTMS treatment using the FDA-approved 20-Hz protocol for OCD applied bilaterally over the left and right DMPFC using a double-cone coil. Nonetheless, it still unknown whether the seizure occurred as a consequence of rTMS, as the patient was also in a specific seizure risk group. Future reviews are needed to further clarify the mechanisms that may trigger seizures during rTMS treatments in order to reduce the likelihood of rTMS-induced seizures.
АНАЛІЗ СТОМАТОЛОГІЧНОГО ЗДОРОВ’Я ШКОЛЯРІВ МІСТА ТЕРНОПОЛЯ
Authors: Лебедик С. В. , Коноваленко С. О
Published: September 2021

У статті проаналізовано поведінкові фактори ризику в дітей шкільного віку за допомогою субʼєктивних індикаторів.
ОБІЗНАНІСТЬ МОЛОДІ У ПИТАННЯХ ВІЛ/СНІДУ
Authors: Полоз О. А.
Published: September 2021

У статті висвітлено результати дослідження про рівень знань студентів медичного коледжу стосовно ВІЛ/СНІДу, способи передачі та профілактики, а також ставлення до ВІЛ-інфікованих.
ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНО-АНАЛІТИЧНІ ВМІННЯ У СТРУКТУРІ ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТІ МАЙБУТНІХ ФАХІВЦІВ МЕДСЕСТРИНСТВА
Authors: Олійникова А. Р.
Published: September 2021

У статті обґрунтовано необхідність формування експериментально-аналітичних вмінь майбутніх ме­дич­них сестер у процесі навчання в медичному коледжі. Встановлено відповідність між групами вмінь та виробничими функціями майбутніх медсестер (профілактична, діагностична, лікувальна, техно­логічна та оцінювальна). Продемонстровано, що експериментальні вміння варто розглядати на різних рівнях (макрорівні, мезорівні, мікрорівні).
Platelet GPVI (Glycoprotein VI) and Thrombotic Complications in the Venous System
Authors: Perrella Gina , Nagy Magdolna , Watson Steve P. , Heemskerk Johan W.M.
Published: September 2021

The immunoglobulin receptor GPVI (glycoprotein VI) is selectively expressed on megakaryocytes and platelets and is currently recognized as a receptor for not only collagen but also a variety of plasma and vascular proteins, including fibrin, fibrinogen, laminin, fibronectin, and galectin-3. Deficiency of GPVI is protective in mouse models of experimental thrombosis, pulmonary thromboembolism as well as in thromboinflammation, suggesting a role of GPVI in arterial and venous thrombus formation. In humans, platelet GPVI deficiency is associated with a mild bleeding phenotype, whereas a common variant rs1613662 in the
GP6
gene is considered a risk factor for venous thromboembolism. However, preclinical studies on the inhibition of GPVI-ligand interactions are focused on arterial thrombotic complications. In this review we discuss the emerging evidence for GPVI in venous thrombus formation and leukocyte-dependent thromboinflammation, extending to venous thromboembolism, pulmonary thromboembolism, and cancer metastasis. We also recapitulate indications for circulating soluble GPVI as a biomarker of thrombosis-related complications. Collectively, we conclude that the current evidence suggests that platelet GPVI is also a suitable cotarget in the prevention of venous thrombosis due to its role in thrombus consolidation and platelet-leukocyte complex formation.
Day-by-Day Blood Pressure Variability in the Subacute Stage of Ischemic Stroke and Long-Term Recurrence
Authors: Fukuda Kenji , Matsuo Ryu , Kamouchi Masahiro , Kiyuna Fumi , Sato Noriko , Nakamura Kuniyuki , Hata Jun , Wakisaka Yoshinobu , Ago Tetsuro , Imaizumi Tsutomu , Kai Hisashi , Kitazono Takanari , Ishitsuka Takao , Ibayashi Setsuro , Kusuda Kenji , Fujii Kenichiro , Nagao Tetsuhiko , Okada Yasushi , Yasaka Masahiro , Ooboshi Hiroaki , Irie Katsumi , Omae Tsuyoshi , Toyoda Kazunori , Nakane Hiroshi , Sugimori Hiroshi , Arakawa Shuji , Kitayama Jiro , Fujimoto Shigeru , Arihiro Shoji , Kuroda Junya , Fukushima Yoshihisa , Kumai Yasuhiro , Makihara Noriko
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose:

This study aimed to determine whether variability of day-by-day blood pressure (BP) during the subacute stage of acute ischemic stroke is predictive of long-term stroke recurrence.

Methods:

We analyzed 7665 patients (mean±SD age: 72.9±13.1 years; women: 42.4%) hospitalized for first-ever ischemic stroke in 7 stroke centers in Fukuoka, Japan, from June 2007 to November 2018. BP was measured daily during the subacute stage (4–10 days after onset). Its mean and coefficient of variation (CV) values were calculated and divided into 4 groups according to the quartiles of these BP parameters. Patients were prospectively followed up for recurrent stroke or all-cause death. The cumulative event rate was calculated with the Kaplan-Meier method. We estimated the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals of the events of interest after adjusting for potential confounders and mean BP values using Cox proportional hazards models. The Fine-Gray model was also used to account for the competing risk of death.

Results:

With a mean (±SD) follow-up duration of 3.9±3.2 years, the rates of recurrent stroke and all-cause death were 3.9 and 9.9 per 100 patient-years, respectively. The cumulative event rates of recurrent stroke and all-cause death increased with increasing CVs of systolic BP and diastolic BP. The systolic BP CV was significantly associated with an increased risk of recurrent stroke after adjusting for multiple confounders and mean BP (hazard ratio [95% CI] for fourth quartile versus first quartile, 1.26 [1.05–1.50]); the risk of recurrent stroke also increased with an increasing systolic BP CV for nonfatal strokes (1.26 [1.05–1.51]) and when death was regarded as a competing risk (1.21 [1.02–1.45]). Similar associations were observed for the diastolic BP CV.

Conclusions:

Day-by-day variability of BP during the subacute stage of acute ischemic stroke was associated with an increased long-term risk of recurrent stroke.
Trade and Human Capital in Global Value Chain in Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Wang Wenxiao , Thangavelu Shandre
Published: September 2021

This paper investigates the effects of human capital on bilateral domestic value-added trade in global value chains (GVCs) for 43 countries and 56 sectors. In contrast to previous studies, this paper estimated an approximate gravity model of value-added trade to capture the role of human capital in determining the cross-border production linkages via value-added trade. The results show that the domestic value-added trade flows depend critically on human capital development in both exporting and importing countries. The results indicate a positive effect of skilled intensity on bilateral domestic value-added trade in GVCs. We also observe a larger positive effect of skills on the GVC value-added trade for the developing economies. The paper highlights the importance of trade liberalization and forward-looking human capital development policies for the competitiveness of the developing countries in the value-added trade in GVC.
Seven new Otacilia Thorell, 1897 species from China (Araneae: Phrurolithidae)
Authors: MU YANNAN , ZHANG FENG
Published: September 2021

Seven new species of Otacilia Thorell, 1897 from China are described and illustrated, all from both sexes: O. ensifera sp. nov. and O. arcuata sp. nov. from Hunan Province; O. spiralis sp. nov. from Hunan Province and Chongqing City; O. lubrica sp. nov. and O. wuli sp. nov. from Chongqing City; O. dentigera sp. nov. from Sichuan Province; and O. shanxi sp. nov. from Shanxi Province. Based on Jin et al. (2016), the seven new species described here belong to two species groups: O. ensifera sp. nov., O. shanxi sp. nov., O. spiralis sp. nov. and O. lubrica sp. nov. belong to the armatissima-group, while O. wuli sp. nov., O. dentigera sp. nov. and O. arcuata sp. nov. belong to the longituba-group.
A new species of Lasioseius (Acari: Blattisociidae) from Brazil with morphological and DNA barcode data
Authors: MERLIN BRUNA L. , CASTILHO RAPHAEL C. , DE MORAES GILBERTO J.
Published: September 2021

Lasioseius foliatisetus n. sp. is described based on the morphology and molecular markers of adult females collected in litter/soil samples of the Caatinga and Pantanal, extensive Brazilian biomes. This new species can be distinguished from other Lasioseius species mainly by having fixed cheliceral digit with three teeth in addition to apical tooth, most dorsal shield setae leaf-shaped, and ventrianal shield with seven pairs of setae (including Jv5) in addition to the circumanal setae. The determined nucleotide sequences of the CytB gene and of ITSS of Lasioseius foliatisetus n. sp. are the first data of these types deposited in a published database (GenBank) for a species of this genus. The phylogenetic tree generated in the analysis of ITSS sequences showed a clade constituted only by species of the superfamily Phytoseoidea, including L. foliatisetus n. sp.. The phylogenetic tree generated in the ML analysis based on CytB showed a separation of the blattisociid species (including L. foliatisetus n. sp.) in one clade and the phytoseiid species in another clade. The analysis of the 28S 1–3 domain by itself did not allow the separation of the new species here described from species of other blattisociid genera.
Response of Northern Hemisphere weather and climate to Arctic sea ice decline: Resolution independence in Polar Amplification Model Intercomparison Project (PAMIP) simulations
Authors: Streffing Jan , Semmler Tido , Zampieri Lorenzo , Jung Thomas
Published: September 2021

The impact of Arctic sea ice decline on the weather and climate in mid-latitudes is still much debated, with observation suggesting a strong and models a much weaker link. In this study, we use the atmospheric model OpenIFS, in a set of model experiments following the protocol outlined in the Polar Amplification Model Intercomparison Project (PAMIP), to investigate whether the simulated atmospheric response to future changes in Arctic sea ice fundamentally depends on model resolution. More specifically, we increase the horizontal resolution of the model from 125km to 39km with 91 vertical levels; in a second step resolution is further increased to 16km with 137 levels in the vertical. The model does produce a response to sea ice decline with a weaker mid latitude Atlantic jet and increased blocking in the high latitude Atlantic, but no sensitivity to resolution can be detected with 100 members. Furthermore we find that the ensemble convergence toward the mean is not impacted by the model resolutions considered here.
Surface Gravity Wave Effects on Submesoscale Currents in the Open Ocean
Authors: Hypolite Delphine , Romero Leonel , McWilliams James C. , Dauhajre Daniel P.
Published: September 2021

A set of realistic coastal simulations in California allows for the exploration of surface gravity wave effects on currents (WEC) in an active submesoscale current regime. We use a new method that takes into account the full surface gravity wave spectrum and produces larger Stokes drift than the monochromatic peak-wave approximation. We investigate two high-wave events lasting several days—one from a remotely generated swell and another associated with local wind-generated waves—and perform a systematic comparison between solutions with and without WEC at two submesoscale-resolving horizontal grid resolutions (dx = 270 and 100 m). WEC results in the enhancement of open-ocean surface density and velocity gradients when the averaged significant wave height Hs is relatively large (>4.2 m). For smaller waves, WEC is a minor effect overall. For the remote swell (strong waves and weak winds), WEC maintains submesoscale structures and accentuates the cyclonic vorticity and horizontal convergence skewness of submesoscale fronts and filaments. The vertical enstrophy ζ2 budget in cyclonic regions (ζ/f > 2) reveals enhanced vertical shear and enstrophy production via vortex tilting and stretching. Wind-forced waves also enhance surface gradients, up to the point where they generate a small-submesoscale roll-cell pattern with high vorticity and divergence that extends vertically through the entire mixed layer. The emergence of these roll cells results in a buoyancy gradient sink near the surface that causes a modest reduction in the typically large submesoscale density gradients.
Choose Your Enemies Well: Mapping, Managing, and Leveraging Rivalry
Authors: Operti Elisa , Sgourev Stoyan V. , Lampronti Shemuel Y.
Published: September 2021

There is an important constraint that can be used to regulate mobility in competitive labor markets—the existence of a deeply felt rivalry between employers. Rivalry denotes a stable antagonistic relationship between companies, as exemplified by Apple and IBM in the 1980s. Analyzing data from the Palio di Siena (an ancient horse race in Siena, Italy), this article shows that direct moves between rivals are rare, accounting for less than 2% of all career moves in this context between 1743 and 2011. Rivalry constrains not only direct but also indirect moves to the ally of a rival or the rival of an ally. This article presents a framework describing how managers can harness rivalry: mapping rivalry, managing rivalry to capitalize on its positive aspects, and leveraging rivalry to adjust the level of competitive intensity.
Tuberculosis Screening in Silica-Exposed Workers
Authors: Reul Nicholas K. , Gray Zachary , Braid Barbara Burchell , Leland Margaret A.
Published: September 2021

Both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Washington State require safety and health protections for workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica, including tuberculosis (TB) screening as part of occupational medical surveillance. We describe the creation of a TB screening tool for silica-exposed workers receiving regulated medical surveillance examinations in Washington State. The tool provides relevant clinical recommendations to assist health care providers and public health practitioners who choose to use the tool when performing such examinations. A cross-disciplinary team at the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries created the TB screening tool to help health care providers identify silica-exposed workers who should receive a comprehensive evaluation for active TB disease and workers who should or must receive testing for latent TB infection. The Washington State Adult Tuberculosis Screening Tool for Workers Exposed to Respirable Crystalline Silica benefits occupational and respiratory clinicians and public health practitioners by aiding both the individual- and population-level delivery of occupational health and TB screening services to silica-exposed workers receiving required medical surveillance examinations.
Synthesis and characteristic applications of silicon resins for the modifying agent in heat conduction
Authors: Jeffrey Kuo Chung-Feng , Ahmad Naveed , Lin Sheng-Yu , Dewangga Garuda Raka Satria , Dong Min-Yan
Published: September 2021

Heat energy retention and dissipation have become key points of global smart textiles in recent years. This study describes the designing of silicon resin by using a sol–gel process, which acts as the modifying agent for siloxane substrate. The modifying agent was effectively blocked by silicon resin mixed with the ethylene or aluminum bond group, to control the molecular weight. Advanced polymer chromatography confirmed that the number average molecular weight (Mn) of silicon resin is 41,301 g mol−1, the weight average molecular weight (Mw) is 47,982 g mol−1, and the molecular weight distribution is 1.1617, which is relatively narrow. When the addition of vinyl groups is 5%, the silicone resin Mn decreases to 18,906 g mol−1 and Mw decreases to 28,641 g mol−1. When the addition of aluminum bond groups is 5%, the silicone resin Mn decreases to 17,497 g mol−1 and Mw decreases to 27,114 g mol−1. The result of thermogravimetric analysis shows that the pyrolysis temperature rises from 265.43°C to 266.17°C after the ethylene is added to the silicon resin, and the index of heat tolerance increases from 179.14°C to 191.38°C. After the addition of aluminum bond groups, the pyrolysis temperature rises from 265.43°C to 309.37°C, and the index of heat tolerance increases from 179.14°C to 193.09°C, meaning the silicone resin has higher thermal stability.
Ti3C2Tx MXene/polyvinyl alcohol decorated polyester warp knitting fabric for flexible wearable strain sensors
Authors: Yu Qinghua , Jiang Jinhua , Su Chuanli , Huang Yaoli , Chen Nanliang , Shao Huiqi
Published: September 2021

Flexible wearable strain sensors with excellent sensing performance have received widespread interest due to their superior application capability in the field of human-computer interaction, sports rehabilitation, and disease diagnosis. But at present, it is still a considerable challenge to exploit a flexible strain sensor with high sensitivity and wide sensing range that is easily manufactured, low-cost, and easily integrable into clothing. MXene is a promising material sensitive enough for flexible sensors due to its superior conductivity and hydrophilicity. The warp knitting weft insertion textile structure gives the fabric excellent elasticity, making it suitable as a flexible, stretchable substrate. Therefore, utilizing a polyester elastic fabric with a warp knitting weft insertion structure, a fabric strain sensor with high sensitivity and wide sensing range prepared by layer-by-layer self-assembly of polyvinyl alcohol layers and MXene layers is reported in this study. The strain sensor exhibits high sensitivity (up to 288.43), a wide sensing range (up to 50%), fast response time (50 ms), ultra-low detection limit (a strain of 0.067%), excellent cycle stability (1000 cycles), and good washability. Besides, affixing the MXene/polyvinyl alcohol/polyester elastic fabric strain sensor on the joints can detect the movement of limbs. Therefore, the MXene/polyvinyl alcohol/polyester elastic fabric strain sensor demonstrates potential application opportunities in smart wearable electronic devices, and the researcher can also apply this method in the production of other flexible, intelligent wearable devices.
The EU as a global negotiator? The advancement of the EU’s role in multilateral negotiations at the UN General Assembly
Authors: Schwarzkopf Anke
Published: September 2021

This paper aims to account for the EU’s role in multilateral negotiations at the UNGA by looking at the negotiations on the enhanced observer status. During the negotiation process, the EU experienced significant opposition and had to accept an intermediate setback in form of a postponement of the vote. Despite this, the EU’s enhanced observer status was adopted by the UNGA in May 2011 as resolution 65/276. This research contributes to the understanding of the EU as an actor in multilateral negotiations and the interaction between state and non-state actors. I argue that the EU is in the process of establishing itself as an active and recognized actor at the UN and determining its role as a highly integrated regional organization and non-state entity in the state-centric environment of the UNGA. I analyse the negotiation process and the final agreement through the lenses of a bargaining approach and as an alternative, mutual recognition as global justice.
Attitudinal Effects of Stimulus Co-occurrence and Stimulus Relations: Paradoxical Effects of Cognitive Load
Authors: Gawronski Bertram
Published: September 2021

Research suggests that evaluations of an object can be jointly influenced by (a) the mere co-occurrence of the object with a pleasant or unpleasant stimulus (e.g., mere co-occurrence of object A and negative event B) and (b) the object’s specific relation to the co-occurring stimulus (e.g., object A starts vs. stops negative event B). Three experiments investigated the impact of cognitive load during learning on the effects of stimulus co-occurrence and stimulus relations. Counter to the shared prediction of competing theories suggesting that effects of stimulus relations should be reduced by cognitive load during learning, effects of stimulus relations were greater (rather than smaller) under high-load compared with low-load conditions. Effects of stimulus co-occurrence were not significantly affected by cognitive load. The results are discussed in terms of theories suggesting that cognitive load can influence behavioral outcomes via strategic shifts in resource allocation in response to task-specific affordances.
The effectiveness of pre- and post-operative rehabilitation for lung cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis on postoperative pulmonary complications and length of hospital stay
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Cheung Denise Shuk Ting , Smith Robert , Lai Agnes Yuen Kwan , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: September 2021

Objective:

To investigate the effects of rehabilitation either before or after operation for lung cancer on postoperative pulmonary complications and the length of hospital stay.

Data sources:

MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, SPORTDiscus, PsycInfo and Embase were searched from inception until June 2021.

Review methods:

Inclusion criteria were patients scheduled to undergo or had undergone operation for lung cancer, randomised controlled trials comparing rehabilitative interventions initiated before hospital discharge to usual care control. Two reviewers independently assessed eligibility, extracted data and risks of bias. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) or standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were estimated using random-effects meta-analyses.

Results:

Twenty-three studies were included (12 preoperative, 10 postoperative and 1 perioperative), with 2068 participants. The pooled postoperative pulmonary complication risk and length of hospital stay were reduced after preoperative interventions (OR = 0.32; 95% CI = 0.22, 0.47; I2 = 0.0% and SMD = −1.68 days, 95% CI = −2.23, −1.13; I2 = 77.8%, respectively). Interventions delivered during the immediate postoperative period did not have any significant effects on either postoperative pulmonary complication or length of hospital stay (OR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.56, 1.29; I2 = 0.0% and SMD = −0.23 days, 95% CI = −1.08, 0.63; I2 = 64.6%, respectively). Meta-regression showed an association between a higher number of supervised sessions and shorter hospital length of stay in preoperative studies (β = −0.17, 95% CI = −0.29, −0.05).

Conclusion:

Preoperative rehabilitation is effective in reducing postoperative pulmonary complications and length of hospital stay associated with lung cancer surgery. Short-term postoperative rehabilitation in inpatient settings is probably ineffective.
Can Communities Produce Complex Technology? Looking Into Space for Insight
Authors: Lemos Lucas , Giotitsas Chris
Published: September 2021

This article examines a community producing complex space technology. We attempt to highlight which aspects of the community’s activities can help democratize high-tech development while providing a context for similar cases involved in developing and manufacturing nonhigh-technological artefacts. We discuss how this has been made possible by using a technology-determined organizational approach based on the CubeSat open platform infrastructure, blending formal and hands-on education, open communication, specific recruitment and working practices, and a genuine passion for technology. We identify as critical enablers for community-based collaborative development of space technology the open-source architecture standard called CubeSat Design Specifications, the modularization of work in subsystems and between different organizations, and the open and participatory approach work tasks distribution and decision making. Moreover, we argue that the digital/informational aspect of this technology allows the community to implement organizational practices that resemble how open-source movements over the internet produce complex digital artefacts like Wikipedia or Linux. ESTCube can shed light on community-driven complex technology development, providing lessons on what a democratized version of high technology would resemble and how open and digitalized technology can help develop the capacities of a community.
Successful management of rhabdomyolysis with acute infection resulting from chronic sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers in a paraplegic patient: a case report
Authors: Huang Kai , Zhu Yansheng
Published: September 2021

Rhabdomyolysis, a potentially life-threatening syndrome, is caused by the breakdown of skeletal muscle cells and leakage of intramyocellular contents into the bloodstream. The treatment of rhabdomyolysis resulting from chronic sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers has been rarely reported. A 62-year-old man developed a high fever and dark-colored urine. For the past 30 years, he had lived with paraplegia, which led to his immobility. Physical examination showed evidence of repeated dehiscence and exudation of the wound on his sacrococcygeal region with loss of skin sensation. Upon corroboration of the physical examination findings and laboratory test results, the patient was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis with an acute infection resulting from sacrococcygeal pressure ulcers. We first debrided the necrotic tissue and then repaired the chronic ulcer. The wound dressing was changed frequently, and antimicrobial therapy and nutritional support were included in the treatment. The fever and dark-colored urine gradually resolved postoperatively. The patient’s renal function also improved according to the typical laboratory indicators, and the size of the pressure ulcers decreased to some extent. The patient was discharged after 1 month of hospitalization. This case highlights that accurate diagnosis is critical for administration of precise treatment to paraplegic patients with progressive rhabdomyolysis.
Examination of New York City Transit’s Bus and Subway Ridership Trends During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Halvorsen Anne , Wood Daniel , Jefferson Darian , Stasko Timon , Hui Jack , Reddy Alla
Published: September 2021

The New York City metropolitan area was hard hit by COVID-19, and the pandemic brought with it unprecedented challenges for New York City Transit. This paper addresses the techniques used to estimate dramatically changing ridership, at a time when previously dependable sources suddenly became unavailable (e.g., local bus payment data, manual field checks). The paper describes alterations to ridership models, as well as the expanding use of automated passenger counters, including validation of new technology and scaling to account for partial data availability. The paper then examines the trends in subway and bus ridership. Peak periods shifted by both time of day and relative intensity compared with the rest of the day, but not in the same way on weekdays and weekends. On average, trip distances became longer for subway and local bus routes, but overall average bus trip distances decreased owing to a drop in express bus usage. Subway ridership changes were compared with neighborhood demographic statistics and numerous correlations were identified, including with employment, income, and race and ethnicity. Other factors, such as the presence of hospitals, were not found to be significant.
Toward the Development of a Unified Process and Methodology Guide for Environmental Justice Analysis in Planning and Programming
Authors: Benman Eliot , Aimen David
Published: September 2021

Federal Environmental Justice directives require transportation agencies responsible for planning and programming federal funds, including state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), to identify and address disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental impacts on minority and low-income populations. Despite issuance of federal and state guidance and training programs, many MPOs nationwide continue to seek clarity on effective environmental justice (EJ) approaches and procedural considerations. The South Central Pennsylvania Unified EJ Process and Methodology study was a year-long effort undertaken by a consortium of MPOs in Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) District 8 to identify a unified and replicable approach to implementing EJ in transportation planning. PennDOT, Federal Highway Administration PA Division, and Federal Transit Administration Region III provided technical assistance and support to the effort. The consortium engaged a technical assistance consultant to facilitate a collaborative process to identify a process framework, a set of analytical methodologies, and effective strategies for advancing EJ in the regional transportation planning process. The study demonstrated a model for convening regional, state, and federal partners to reach consensus around an effective EJ process and methodology. This paper provides an overview of the study process, findings related to the concerns of the participating MPOs, and a brief description of the recommended analytical approaches. The paper discusses lessons learned during the course of the study and considers additional work required to further enhance the EJ process.
More than Cycling Infrastructure: Supporting the Development of Policy Packages for Starter Cycling Cities
Authors: Dias Ana Mélice , Lopes Miguel , Silva Cecília
Published: September 2021

The need to implement sustainable mobility is growing in both urgency and pace. However, in cities where the bicycle is underused and cars are overvalued, trying to change the mobility paradigm comes with many challenges. Planners committed to creating cycling mobility plans have to overcome information and resource barriers in coming up with solutions in their respective contexts. Facilitating access to conceptual and practical information for such cities could provide impetus for more effective decisions. With a view to achieving this goal, the “BooST – Boosting Starter Cycling Cities” research project has developed a planning tool, the Cycling Measures Selector (CMS). The tool facilitates access to specific information on measures promoting bicycle use and provides practical guidelines on how to implement these measures in a comprehensive and effective manner. Through its web-based platform, the CMS presents detailed informational sheets on each measure and provides a structure for testing different combinations. Each combination receives a score and suggestions as to how to increase the efficiency. This paper presents the tool and assesses its utility or usefulness for strategic development. To this end, the inputs of three groups working in the cycling promotion area were taken into consideration: local planners, academics, and activists. A series of workshops provided the space to interact with the tool and explore its potential. Those experiences revealed an apparent disconnect between theory and practice, along with a clear need for detailed and varied information on cycling measures. The findings suggest that the CMS can fulfill that need, as well as aid in the planning process.