bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sense of Contribution Mediates Cultural Differences in Support-Seeking
Authors: Hashimoto Takeshi , Gherghel Claudia
Published: July 2021

Compared to European Americans, East Asians are more reluctant to seek social support when dealing with stressful events. The purpose of this study is to test three possible explanations of these cultural differences. In addition to examining both harmony seeking and rejection avoidance (two facets of interdependence reflecting relationship concerns) as possible explanations, we propose a novel explanation, namely that sense of contribution (i.e., the degree to which one contributes to other people’s well-being) may be an important mediator for explaining cultural differences in support seeking. A survey was conducted on adults living in Japan and the U.S. Results revealed that Japanese less often rely on social support, and sense of contribution significantly mediates the association between culture and support seeking. In contrast, the mediating role of both harmony seeking and rejection avoidance was not supported. The results indicate that cultural differences in support seeking may be more adequately accounted for by sense of contribution than relationship concerns.
Intensive Home Care for COVID-19 to Reduce Admissions
Authors: Aviv Rachel , Abrams Madeline , Mastroianni Fiore , Epstein Marcia , Lisker Gita
Published: July 2021

Hospitalization for COVID-19 has placed a significant financial and logistical burden on hospitals and health care systems. Limitations on visitation and isolation precautions have made hospitalization more isolating for patients in the time of COVID-19. Increasing the provision of healthcare delivered at home has the potential to decrease healthcare costs by providing care at home which may be preferred for many patients. We describe a series of 39 patients who were treated with intravenous remdesivir at home in addition to oxygen, dexamethasone, and anticoagulants. These patients were at high risk for decompensation due to COVID-19 and met accepted criteria for admission—need for supplemental oxygen and intravenous remdesivir. All patients had home lab monitoring and frequent telehealth visits. Over the study period 13 (33%) of patients were admitted for worsening COVID-19 and 5 (13%) died. Twenty-six patients avoided admission, and none experienced a severe adverse effect from in-home treatment. The expanded use of telehealth services due to the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to increase the frequency of patient monitoring by physicians and the provision of care and monitoring usually restricted to hospitalized patients.
Retinal vascular geometry detection as a biomarker in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Li Meng , Wang Gengyuan , Xia Honghui , Feng Ziqing , Xiao Peng , Yuan Jin
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To compare the vessel geometry characteristics of color fundus photographs in normal control and diabetes mellitus (DM) patients and to find potential biomarkers for early diabetic retinopathy (DR) based on a neural network vessel segmentation system and automated vascular geometry parameter analysis software.

Methods:

A total of 102 consecutive patients with type 2 DM (T2DM) and 132 healthy controls were recruited. All participants underwent general ophthalmic examinations, and retinal fundus photographs were taken with a digital fundus camera without mydriasis. Color fundus photographs were input into a dense-block generative adversarial network (D-GAN)-assisted retinal vascular segmentation system ( http://www.gdcerc.cn:8081/#/login ) to obtain binary images. These images were then analyzed by customized software (ocular microvascular analysis system V2.9.1) for automatic processing of vessel geometry parameters, including the monofractal dimension ( Dbox), multifractal dimension ( D0), vessel area ratio ( R), max vessel diameter ( dmax), average vessel diameter ( dave), arc–chord ratio (A/C), and tortuosity (τn). Geometric differences between the healthy subjects and DM patients were analyzed. Then, regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of the vascular geometry parameters.

Results:

No significant differences were observed between the baseline characteristics of each group. DM patients had lower Dbox and D0 values (1.330 ± 0.041; 1.347 ± 0.038) than healthy subjects (1.343 ± 0.048, p < 0.05; 1.362 ± 0.042, p < 0.05) and showed increasing values of dmax, dave, A/C, and τn compared with normal controls, although only the differences in dave and τn between the groups were statistically significant. In the regression analysis, dave and τn showed a good correlation with diabetes ( dave, OR 1.765, 95% CI 1.319–2.362, p < 0.001; τn, OR 9.323, 95% CI 1.492–58.262, p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

We demonstrated the relationship between retinal vascular geometry and the process in DM patients, showing that Dbox, D0, dave, and τn may be indicators of morphological changes in retinal vessels in DM patients and can be early biomarkers of DR.
A Crisis of Governance – Or an Opportunity?
Authors: Areal Andreia G. , Sheppy Bruce
Published: July 2021

The National Health Service Track and Trace Programme has been one of the most pivotal and controversial tools the UK government has deployed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This article reviews the challenges of the development and implementation of the NHS COVID-19 mobile application, and reviews these in the context of the following 3 key areas: outsourcing of public sector, organisational structure and leadership, digital framework and governance. The paper argues that the current pandemic has demonstrated weaknesses in each of the above-mentioned areas, and that is an urgent need to strategically address these in order to prepare for the next public health crisis.
Outgroup threat and the emergence of cohesive groups: A cross-cultural examination
Authors: Lang Martin , Xygalatas Dimitris , Kavanagh Christopher M. , Craciun Boccardi Natalia A. , Halberstadt Jamin , Jackson Chris , Martínez Mercedes , Reddish Paul , Tong Eddie M. W. , Vázquez Alexandra , Whitehouse Harvey , Yamamoto Maria Emília , Yuki Masaki , Gomez Angel
Published: July 2021

Evolutionary models and empirical evidence suggest that outgroup threat is one of the strongest factors inducing group cohesion; however, little is known about the process of forming such cohesive groups. We investigated how outgroup threat galvanizes individuals to affiliate with others to form engaged units that are willing to act on behalf of their in-group. A total of 864 participants from six countries were randomly assigned to an outgroup threat, environmental threat, or no-threat condition. We measured the process of group formation through physical proximity and movement mirroring along with activity toward threat resolution, and found that outgroup threat induced activity and heightened mirroring in males. We also observed higher mirroring and proximity in participants who perceived the outgroup threat as a real danger, albeit the latter results were imprecisely estimated. Together, these findings help understand how sharing subtle behavioral cues influences collaborative aggregation of people under threat.
Performance of axially restrained carbon and stainless steel perforated beams at elevated temperatures
Authors: Shaheen Mohamed A , Afshan Sheida , Foster Andrew SJ
Published: July 2021

This article compares the fire performance of axially restrained perforated carbon and austenitic stainless steel composite beams with circular and rectangular web openings. Finite element models, validated against experimental tests from the literature, were used to perform parametric analysis. The beams were analysed under various levels of load ratio and axial restraint stiffness covering the ranges which may exist in practice. It is concluded that austenitic stainless steel perforated beams show a more ductile fire response compared to carbon steel beams of similar geometry. It is shown that despite stainless steel’s higher thermal expansion, the beams exhibit lower thermal-induced peak compressive forces than carbon steel beams giving rise to lower levels of thermal-induced compressive force on the adjacent cold structures. The load ratio was found to determine the relative survivability of stainless steel and carbon steel beams, where at load ratios lower than 0.6, stainless steel beams show superior fire resistance than their carbon steel counterparts. The article also assesses the applicability and accuracy of the Steel Construction Institute method for the design of carbon and stainless steel perforated beams, and recommendations for future improvements are made.
Thinking with autoethnography in collaborative research: A critical, reflexive approach to relational ethics
Authors: Phillips Louise , Christensen-Strynø Maria Bee , Frølunde Lisbeth
Published: July 2021

In this article, we propose a distinctive critical, reflexive approach to relational ethics in ‘collaborative, democratic and transformative’ research. Underpinning the approach is the view that the buzzwords of ‘collaboration’ and ‘co-creation/co-production’ may signify equitable, symmetrical power relations and, as a result, romanticise collaborative research as straightforward processes of inclusion. The approach integrates critical, reflexive analysis of the play of power in the ‘with’ in ‘research with, not on, people’ and the ‘co’ in ‘co-creating knowledge’ into the ongoing collaborative research process. As a main method for critical, reflexive analysis, the approach uses ‘thinking with’ autoethnography. In the article, we illustrate the approach by showing how we ‘think with’ autoethnographic texts to respond to discomfort and analyse the tensions in the co-constitution of knowledge and subjectivities in the preliminary phase of a collaborative, participatory research project on dance for people with Parkinson’s disease and their spouses.
Research on dynamic characteristics of pressure compensator for deep-sea hydraulic system
Authors: Wu Jia-Bin , Li Li , Wei Wei
Published: July 2021

The pressure compensator is an important equipment of the deep-sea hydraulic system to provide the functions of pressure and volume compensation. In this paper, the structure features and static force analysis of the pressure compensator are studied. The physical model of the pressure compensator is established, and its dynamic characteristics influenced by the ambient pressure, the compensated flow and the temperature change are all analyzed. The entire working process of the pressure compensator is then researched. Therefore, two design criteria for reliability and dynamic characteristics respectively are proposed. A pressure compensator for 6000 m deep in the sea was designed and manufactured. Simulations and high-pressure experiments of the designed pressure compensator were conducted. The results show that the dynamic response of the compensated pressure under each input is all composed of a ramp change, a step change and a damped oscillation. The effective area of the rolling diaphragm, the spring stiffness and the mass of the diaphragm-piston assembly are the key design parameters to ensure the reliability and good dynamic characteristics of the pressure compensator. Simulation and high-pressure experiments verified the volume and pressure compensation function of the pressure compensator in the deep-sea environment.
Supporting students during the transition to university in COVID-19: Five key considerations and recommendations for educators
Authors: Pownall Madeleine , Harris Richard , Blundell-Birtill Pam
Published: July 2021

As coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) continues to disrupt pretertiary education provision and examinations in the United Kingdom, urgent consideration must be given to how best to support the 2021–2022 cohort of incoming undergraduate students to higher education. In this paper, we draw upon the “Five Sense of Student Success” model to highlight five key evidence-based, psychology-informed considerations that higher education educators should be attentive to when preparing for the next academic year. These include the challenge in helping students to reacclimatize to academic work following a period of prolonged educational disruption, supporting students to access the “hidden curriculum” of higher education, negotiating mental health consequences of COVID-19, and remaining sensitive to inequalities of educational provision that students have experienced as a result of COVID-19. We provide evidence-based, psychology-informed recommendations to each of these considerations.
Impacts of home lighting on human health
Authors: Ticleanu C
Published: July 2021

Typical home lighting practice is mainly centred on visual aspects to enable safe movement between spaces, flexibility in multiuse spaces, a sense of aesthetics and energy efficiency. Whilst lighting impacts on the health of residents have not received similar consideration, this area is gaining increasing interest. This is even more important and actual in the context of the recent pandemic where people have been working or studying from home. A combination of bright daytime light and night-time darkness is essential for circadian entrainment and maintenance of a regular daily sleep–wake cycle, whereas exposure to light at night can negatively impact circadian rhythms and sleep patterns and ultimately lead to potential health problems. Additionally, lighting also has the potential to affect health through associated effects such as flicker, glare, optical hazards or electromagnetic fields. This article discusses the main areas of concern related to home lighting and outlines general recommendations to limit detrimental effects and contribute to good health.
The implementation of natural lighting for human health from a planning perspective
Authors: Mardaljevic J
Published: July 2021

This paper makes the case that a significant factor in the failure to ensure adequate daylighting performance for interior spaces is often due to the inadequacy of methods used at the early stages of planning. All of the methods currently used for daylight/sunlight planning share common failings: they cannot make meaningful estimations of performance at the outset, nor can the methods used be extended/refined to overcome these failings. Thus, it is argued, a new approach is required. The paper gives an overview of the history and development of methods to predict performance; from the conception of the daylight factor to climate-based daylight modelling. The impact of prescriptive planning regulations is described using New York City as the example. The paper concludes with an outline of a new modelling schema which can provide the much needed link between the real-world practicalities of building planning and the need to determine realistic indicators of building performance at the earliest stages of obtaining planning consent.
Traumatic Superficial Temporal Artery Pseudoaneurysm Treated With Thrombin Injection
Authors: Grillo Laura , Collins Jeffery , Amankwah Kwame , Hasson Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Pseudoaneurysms of the superficial temporal artery are rare. They commonly occur after blunt trauma to the frontotemporal region of the head. There have been less than 400 cases of superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysms reported. We present a case of a patient referred for a pulsatile head mass. Physical examination and color Doppler ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of a superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm (STA PSA). This was treated with ultrasound guided thrombin injection with complete resolution. Anatomical distribution, diagnosis, and treatment of STA PSA are discussed.
Calculation of deception probability of netted radar based on non-central chi-square distribution
Authors: Yuan Yue , Tu Gang-yi , Wang Ben , Wang Ling-ling
Published: July 2021

Aiming at the problems of complex factors affecting the rate of deception probability of networked of radar nets, the large amount of calculation by Monte Carlo simulation and the inability to quantitatively analyze the influence of various factors on the deception probability of networked, a calculation method of deception probability of networked is proposed. First, according to the homology measurement method based on the Mahalanobis distance, the probability density model of the deception probability of networked is calculated. Its probability density model obeys the non-central chi-square distribution. Then, a hypothesis test model is established to calculate the deception probability of networked mathematical expression. The simulation results show that the error between the calculation method of the deception probability of networked and the calculation result of 1000 times Monte Carlo is less than 2%. The method in this article can analyze the quantitative effect of false target position, interference distance interval, radar position, true target position, and other factors on the deception probability of networked, instead of Monte Carlo simulation, to provide a trade-off between the true target recognition rate and the deception probability of networked theoretical basis.
Assessing mental capacity
Authors: Neilson Alice
Published: July 2021

Mental capacity is the ability to retain, process, and weigh up information to provide a completely objective decision independent of any cognitive impairment present. Awareness of an individual’s mental capacity is important for all healthcare professionals. Mental capacity and capacity assessments are guided by the legal framework; the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Mental capacity assessments enable practitioners to determine if a patient is able to make reasoned decisions independently, or whether the patient requires assistance in their best interests and are decision and time dependent. Therefore, capacity can fluctuate over time and if someone is deemed to have no capacity on one occasion this does not mean that they should be assumed to consistently lack capacity. The act delivers five key principles to follow in order to determine whether an individual has or lacks mental capacity.
Experiencing loneliness in parenthood: a scoping review
Authors: Nowland R , Thomson G , McNally L , Smith T , Whittaker K
Published: July 2021

Aims:

Chronic loneliness is experienced by around a third of parents, but there is no comprehensive review into how, why and which parents experience loneliness. This scoping review aimed to provide insight into what is already known about parental loneliness and give directions for further applied and methodological research.

Methods:

Searches for peer-reviewed articles were undertaken in six databases: PsycINFO, Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus, during May 2019 to February 2020. We searched for English studies which examined loneliness experienced during parenthood, including studies that involved parents with children under 16 years and living at home and excluding studies on pregnancy, childbirth or postbirth hospital care.

Results:

From 2566 studies retrieved, 133 were included for analysis. Most studies ( n = 80) examined the experience of loneliness in specific groups of parents, for example, teenage parents, parents of a disabled child. Other studies examined theoretical issues ( n = 6) or health and wellbeing impacts on parents ( n = 16) and their offspring ( n = 17). There were 14 intervention studies with parents that measured loneliness as an outcome. Insights indicate that parental loneliness may be different to loneliness experienced in other cohorts. There is evidence that parental loneliness has direct and intergenerational impacts on parent and child mental health. Some parents (e.g. with children with chronic illness or disability, immigrant or ethnic minority parents) also appear to be at increased risk of loneliness although evidence is not conclusive.

Conclusion:

This work has identified key gaps with further international, comparative and conceptual research needed.
Gymsyloside F and Gymsyloside G, Two New Pregnane Glycosides From the Leaves of Gymnema sylvestre and Their α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase Inhibitory Activities
Authors: Yen Pham Hai , Hai Yen Duong Thi , Viet Thanh Nguyen Thi , Hung Nguyen Anh , Bang Ngo Anh , Tai Bui Huu , Nhiem Nguyen Xuan , Kiem Phan Van
Published: July 2021

Two new pregnane glycosides were isolated from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre (Retz.) R.Br. ex Sm. Their chemical structures were determined as (20 S)−12 β-tigloyloxy-5 α-hydroperoxy-3 β,8 β,14 β,17 β,20-pentahydroxypregn-6-ene 3- O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)‐6-deoxy-3- O-methyl- β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→4)- β-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1→4)- β-D-cymaropyranosyl-(1→4)- β-D-cymaropyranoside (1) and (20 S)−12 β-benzoyloxy-5 α-hydroperoxy-3 β,8 β,14 β,17 β,20-pentahydroxypregn-6-ene 3- O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)‐6-deoxy-3- O-methyl- β-D-allopyranosyl-(1→4)- β-D-oleandropyranosyl-(1→4)- β-D-cymaropyranosyl-(1→4)- β-D-cymaropyranoside (2) on the basis of the extensive spectroscopic methods, including 1D, 2D NMR, HRESIMS, and in comparison with the reported data. At the concentration of 200 µM, compounds 1 and 2 showed moderate anti α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities with inhibitory percentage of 31.1 ± 1.2 and 42.3 ± 1.7% (for α-glucosidase), and 27.8 ± 1.3 and 34.5 ± 1.5% (for α-amylase), respectively.
Environmental Physical and Perceived Quality in Hospice
Authors: Ferrante Tiziana , Villani Teresa
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

This study presents the application of post-occupancy evaluations (POEs) methodologies to facilities for palliative-hospice care, in order to directly assess the physical–spatial qualities better suited for the specific psychological needs of “fragile” users and to ensure better architectural quality in new projects and in renovation measures.

Background:

In international literature, there are few studies concerning the application of POEs to hospice, assessing the impact of individual environmental factors on users’ psychoemotional reactions. The set of elements that patients and their families perceive as important, defining the architectural quality of a hospice, has not been sufficiently investigated yet.

Method:

Therefore, a POE was performed on a sample of hospice in Italy, by preparing a self-filled questionnaire addressing patients and relatives. Indicators of perceived physical–spatial humanization, which were validated for hospital facilities (perceived hospital environment quality indicators), were used for the assessment then implemented and harmonized in relation to hospice facilities features.

Results:

The study revealed the indicators of architectural quality most valued by users, whose reliability was then verified, along with their average quality, by highlighting recurring shortcomings. The global quality was found to be generally high. Below-average scores were found for indicators on usability, acoustic comfort of outdoors, visual and acoustic comfort of shared indoor spaces, and artificial lighting in the recovery room.

Conclusion:

The study generated new knowledge on hospice and confirmed the efficacy of POEs as a tool both for purchasers and designers. Indeed, the first results of this study allow to recalibrate building programs, revisiting layouts, and elaborating appropriate technical solutions.
Reasons Why Athletes Do Not Return to Sports After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Comparative Study of 208 Athletes With Minimum 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Rossi Luciano Andrés , Tanoira Ignacio , Brandariz Rodrigo , Pasqualini Ignacio , Ranalletta Maximiliano
Published: July 2021

Background:

There is a lack of information regarding the reasons why patients do not return to sports after an arthroscopic Bankart repair and whether there is a relationship between return to sports and functional outcomes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the reasons why competitive athletes who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair did not return to sports and whether there was a relationship between returning to sports and postoperative outcome scores and complications.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Of 217 competitive athletes who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair for isolated anterior glenohumeral instability between June 2014 and December 2017, a total of 208 athletes (96%) were evaluated at minimum 2-year follow-up. Return to sports, the level of sports achieved, and the time between surgery and return to competition were assessed, and patients who did not return to sports were asked to provide the reasons for cessation. The Rowe score and the Athletic Shoulder Outcome Scoring System (ASOSS) were used to assess functional outcomes. Recurrences, reoperations, and complications were also evaluated.

Results:

The mean patient age was 24 years (range, 18-30 years), and the mean follow-up was 44 months (range, 24-90 months). Of the 208 athletes, 73% were able to return to sports (65% returned to their preinjury level), and 27% did not return to sports. Of those who did not return, the most frequent reasons were fear of reinjury (44%), lack of confidence in their shoulder (12%), and concern about a new rehabilitation process in case of recurrence (10%). The Rowe and ASOSS scores showed significant postoperative improvement in all patients ( P < .001), with no significant differences between the 2 study groups at the final follow-up. There were 21 recurrences (10%) and 5 complications (2.4%), and 11 patients (5.3%) underwent revision surgery, with no significant differences in these rates between the groups.

Conclusion:

Of patients who did not return to sports, 74% left for a reason independent of shoulder function, with the most frequent causes being fear of reinjury and a concern about new rehabilitation process. Neither outcome scores nor complications varied significantly between patients who returned and those who did not return to sports.
Outcomes of Open Versus Arthroscopic Broström Surgery for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Comparative Studies
Authors: Attia Ahmed Khalil , Taha Tarek , Mahmoud Karim , Hunt Kenneth J. , Labib Sameh A. , d’Hooghe Pieter
Published: July 2021

Background:

Nearly 20% of acute ankle sprains progress to chronic lateral ankle instability that requires surgical intervention. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in arthroscopic Broström techniques as an alternative to open surgery.

Purpose:

To review the most up-to-date evidence comparing the outcomes of open and arthroscopic Broström procedures for chronic lateral ankle instability.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This review was performed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Relevant comparative studies in English up to May 2020 were identified. The primary outcomes were (1) functional scores (Karlsson Ankle Function Score and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society [AOFAS] score) and (2) the 10-point visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain. The secondary outcomes were differences in (1) postoperative anterior drawer and talar tilt, (2) surgical time and complication rate, and (3) time to return to sports and weightbearing.

Results:

A total of 408 patients in 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 193 (47.3%) patients underwent open surgery, while 215 (52.7%) patients underwent arthroscopic surgery. There were significant differences between the open and arthroscopic repair groups in mean 6-month AOFAS scores (82.4 vs 92.25, respectively; mean difference [MD], 11.36; 95% CI, 0.14-2.56; I 2 = 90%; P = .03), 1-year AOFAS scores (80.05 vs 88.6; MD, –11.96; 95% CI, –21.26 to –2.76; I 2 = 82%; P = .01), 6-month VAS scores (1.7 vs 1.4; MD, –0.38; 95% CI, –0.54 to –0.21; I 2 = 78%; P < .001), and 1-year VAS scores (2.05 vs 1.45; MD, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.09-0.54; I 2 = 0%; P < .001). The mean time to weightbearing was 14.25 and 9.0 weeks in the open and arthroscopic repair groups, respectively (MD, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.24-2.54; I 2 = 99%; P < .001). There were no statistically significant differences in the remaining outcomes evaluated.

Conclusion:

While technically more demanding, arthroscopic Broström was superior to open Broström-Gould surgery in postoperative AOFAS scores, VAS pain scores, and time to return to weightbearing. The operative time, complication rate, talar tilt, and anterior drawer tests were excellent and statistically comparable. Long-term clinical trials are required before recommending arthroscopic Broström as the new gold standard.
Association of Jump-Landing Biomechanics With Tibiofemoral Articular Cartilage Composition 12 Months After ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Pfeiffer Steven J. , Spang Jeffrey T. , Nissman Daniel , Lalush David , Wallace Kyle , Harkey Matthew S. , Pietrosimone Laura S. , Padua Darin , Blackburn Troy , Pietrosimone Brian
Published: July 2021

Background:

Excessively high joint loading during dynamic movements may negatively influence articular cartilage health and contribute to the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Little is known regarding the link between aberrant jump-landing biomechanics and articular cartilage health after ACLR.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine the associations between jump-landing biomechanics and tibiofemoral articular cartilage composition measured using T1ρ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) relaxation times 12 months postoperatively. We hypothesized that individuals who demonstrate alterations in jump-landing biomechanics, commonly observed after ACLR, would have longer T1ρ MRI relaxation times (longer T1ρ relaxation times associated with less proteoglycan density).

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 27 individuals with unilateral ACLR participated in this cross-sectional study. Jump-landing biomechanics (peak vertical ground-reaction force [vGRF], peak internal knee extension moment [KEM], peak internal knee adduction moment [KAM]) and T1ρ MRI were collected 12 months postoperatively. Mean T1ρ relaxation times for the entire weightbearing medial femoral condyle, lateral femoral condyle (global LFC), medial tibial condyle, and lateral tibial condyle (global LTC) were calculated bilaterally. Global regions of interest were further subsectioned into posterior, central, and anterior regions of interest. All T1ρ relaxation times in the ACLR limb were normalized to the uninjured contralateral limb. Linear regressions were used to determine associations between T1ρ relaxation times and biomechanics after accounting for meniscal/chondral injury.

Results:

Lower ACLR limb KEM was associated with longer T1ρ relaxation times for the global LTC (Δ R 2 = 0.24; P = .02), posterior LTC (Δ R 2 = 0.21; P = .03), and anterior LTC (Δ R 2 = 0.18; P = .04). Greater ACLR limb peak vGRF was associated with longer T1ρ relaxation times for the global LFC (Δ R 2 = 0.20; P = .02) and central LFC (Δ R 2 = 0.15; P = .05). Peak KAM was not associated with T1ρ outcomes.

Conclusion:

At 12 months postoperatively, lower peak KEM and greater peak vGRF during jump landing were related to longer T1ρ relaxation times, suggesting worse articular cartilage composition.
Teaching Workplace Genre Ecologies and Pedagogical Goals Through Résumés and Cover Letters
Authors: Doan Sara
Published: July 2021

This study examines how and why 20 instructors (17 tenure-line and 3 nontenure-line) in introductory service courses enact their pedagogical values and address current concerns (e.g., personal branding, LinkedIn, and applicant tracking systems) when teaching résumés and cover letters. Research methods included a demographics survey, qualitative interviews, and critical discourse analysis of assignment sheets and deidentified student examples. Results provide an opportunity to renegotiate gaps between Business and Professional Communication’s research and pedagogical methods, shifting from overemphasizing formatting and checklists and toward understanding job applications as workplace genre ecologies to encourage deeper learning.
What Factors Influence Dental Faculty’s Willingness to Treat Pregnant Women?
Authors: Huang S.S. , Yang C. , Cohen V. , Russell S.L.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Despite evidence-based guidelines advocating for the provision of oral health care throughout pregnancy, dentists remain hesitant to provide dental treatment for pregnant women. However, little is known about attitudes toward treating pregnant women among dental school faculty, who may transmit their attitudes and treatment preferences to their students.

Methods:

We collected cross-sectional survey data at the New York University College of Dentistry, which produces 10% of all US dentists and is the largest US dental school, to understand faculty attitudes and knowledge regarding providing dental treatment to pregnant women. This study was part of an educational effort to improve dental care access by pregnant women and to examine what factors influence willingness to treat pregnant patients among dental faculty members.

Results:

We found that concerns about professional liability outweighed inadequate knowledge regarding treatment of pregnant patients in determining dental faculty’s willingness to treat pregnant women.

Conclusions:

Educational interventions delivered to dental faculty regarding current dental treatment guidelines for pregnant women may not be sufficient to increase faculty’s provision of dental care to women during pregnancy. Future work to design effective interventions to increase dental treatment of pregnant women among dental faculty should address liability concerns.

Knowledge Transfer Statement

Interventions addressing dental clinician and faculty knowledge about dental treatment for pregnant women may be insufficient to increase dental treatment among pregnant women. Instead, policy makers should consider designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions addressing malpractice and liability concerns.
Wag the Dog: A Digital Literacies Narrative
Authors: Baker Elizabeth (Betsy) A.
Published: July 2021

In the spring of 2020, schools across the country and world closed. COVID-19 reached pandemic proportions. Were schools prepared? Was there a research base available to help schools prepare students for reading and writing digital texts? The ability to read, analyze, compose, and communicate with digital texts requires digital literacies. However, the rapid-fire development of information and communication technologies (ICTs) makes the identification of digital literacies and the development of curriculum and instruction a moving target. In her Literacy Research Association Presidential Address, Dr. Betsy Baker asserts that digital literacies are no longer an entity separate from reading and writing instruction, they are no longer a technology issue, students live in a digital world, and digital literacies are not optional. Digital literacies have become the literacies of our culture. Baker synthesizes over 25 years of research to propose that digital literacies are persistently public, semiotic, product-oriented, and transitory. Researchers, educational leaders, and teachers can leverage these characteristics as footholds to identify ever-changing digital literacies, design curricula, and provide instruction so that all students can be autonomous as they seek to thrive in a digital world. Dr. Baker’s Presidential Address is available online (see https://youtu.be/Avzup21ZnA4 ).
Morpho-constitutional analysis of urinary stones from patients with urolithiasis in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Diangienda Pablo Kuntima Diasiama , Moningo Dieudonné Molamba , Makulo Jean-Robert Rissasy , Sumaili Ernest Kiswaya , Mafuta Eric Musalu , Mayindu Alain Ngoma , Punga-Maole Augustin M. L. , Haymann Jean-Philippe , Daudon Michel
Published: July 2021

Background

Urolithiasis is increasingly diagnosed worldwide. Stone analysis is an important part in the assessment of patients with urolithiasis. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, data on the composition of urinary stones are limited. This study aimed to describe the composition and sites of urinary stones and to investigate relationship between socio-demographic characteristics, clinical profile of patients, and the composition of urinary stones.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 132 patients with urolithiasis who visited one of the seven hospitals in the Democratic Republic of Congo during eight years of study period (January 2010 to January 2018) was conducted. Stones were analyzed by infrared spectrophotometry.

Results

Most of stones analyzed (n = 82, 62.1%) originated from the upper urinary tract with a difference across gender (58.5% males vs. 41.5% females, p = 0.001). Only three stones (two from whewellite and one from anhydrous uric acid) were considered pure (2.3%), excluding the protein frame (less than 5%). Whewellite, proteins, and carbapatite were identified in 97.7%, 96.2%, and 80.3% of the stones analyzed, respectively; and in 91.7%, 89.4%, and 67.7% of the nuclei of the stones analyzed, respectively. Taking into account the proportion of each constituent in the stones analyzed, whewellite (68.9%), anhydrous uric acid (10.6%), and carbapatite (8.3%) were the main constituents in respectively 68, 9%, 10.6%, and 8.3% of the stones analyzed.

Conclusion

Whewellite, anhydrous uric acid, and carbapatite represented the most frequent main components of stones identified, suggesting that dietary hyperoxaluria could be an important factor in lithogenesis in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
SAUTE: sequence assembly using target enrichment
Authors: Souvorov Alexandre , Agarwala Richa
Published: July 2021

Background

Illumina is the dominant sequencing technology at this time. Short length, short insert size, some systematic biases, and low-level carryover contamination in Illumina reads continue to make assembly of repeated regions a challenging problem. Some applications also require finding multiple well supported variants for assembled regions.

Results

To facilitate assembly of repeat regions and to report multiple well supported variants when a user can provide target sequences to assist the assembly, we propose SAUTE and SAUTE_PROT assemblers. Both assemblers use de Bruijn graph on reads. Targets can be transcripts or proteins for RNA-seq reads and transcripts, proteins, or genomic regions for genomic reads. Target sequences are nucleotide and protein sequences for SAUTE and SAUTE_PROT, respectively.

Conclusions

For RNA-seq, comparisons with Trinity, rnaSPAdes, SPAligner, and SPAdes assembly of reads aligned to target proteins by DIAMOND show that SAUTE_PROT finds more coding sequences that translate to benchmark proteins. Using AMRFinderPlus calls, we find SAUTE has higher sensitivity and precision than SPAdes, plasmidSPAdes, SPAligner, and SPAdes assembly of reads aligned to target regions by HISAT2. It also has better sensitivity than SKESA but worse precision.
Genome-wide analysis and expression patterns of lipid phospholipid phospholipase gene family in Brassica napus L.
Authors: Su Wei , Raza Ali , Zeng Liu , Gao Ang , Lv Yan , Ding Xiaoyu , Cheng Yong , Zou Xiling
Published: July 2021

Background

Lipid phosphate phosphatases (LPP) are critical for regulating the production and degradation of phosphatidic acid (PA), an essential signaling molecule under stress conditions. Thus far, the LPP family genes have not been reported in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.).

Results

In this study, a genome-wide analysis was carried out to identify LPP family genes in rapeseed that respond to different stress conditions. Eleven BnLPPs genes were identified in the rapeseed genome. Based on phylogenetic and synteny analysis, BnLPPs were classified into four groups (Group I-Group IV). Gene structure and conserved motif analysis showed that similar intron/exon and motifs patterns occur in the same group. By evaluating cis-elements in the promoters, we recognized six hormone- and seven stress-responsive elements. Further, six putative miRNAs were identified targeting three BnLPP genes. Gene ontology analysis disclosed that BnLPP genes were closely associated with phosphatase/hydrolase activity, membrane parts, phosphorus metabolic process, and dephosphorylation. The qRT-PCR based expression profiles of BnLPP genes varied in different tissues/organs. Likewise, several gene expression were significantly up-regulated under NaCl, PEG, cold, ABA, GA, IAA, and KT treatments.

Conclusions

This is the first report to describe the comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the rapeseed LPP gene family. We identified different phytohormones and abiotic stress-associated genes that could help in enlightening the plant tolerance against phytohormones and abiotic stresses. The findings unlocked new gaps for the functional verification of the BnLPP gene family during stresses, leading to rapeseed improvement.
Assessing the risk of performance and detection bias in Cochrane reviews as a joint domain is less accurate compared to two separate domains
Authors: Barcot Ognjen , Boric Matija , Dosenovic Svjetlana , Puljak Livia
Published: July 2021

Background

Initially, the Cochrane risk of bias (RoB) tool had a domain for “blinding of participants, personnel and outcome assessors”. In the 2011 tool, the assessment of blinding was split into two domains: blinding of participants and personnel (performance bias) and blinding of outcome assessors (detection bias). The aims of this study were twofold; first, to analyze the frequency of usage of the joint blinding domain (a single domain for performance and detection bias), and second, to assess the proportion of adequate assessments made in the joint versus single RoB domains for blinding by comparing whether authors’ RoB judgments were supported by explanatory comments in line with the Cochrane Handbook recommendations.

Methods

We extracted information about the assessment of blinding from RoB tables (judgment, comment, and whether it was specified which outcome type; e.g., objective, subjective) of 729 Cochrane reviews published in 2015-2016. In the Cochrane RoB tool, judgment (low, unclear or high risk) needs to be accompanied by a transparent comment, in which authors provide a summary justifying RoB judgment, to ensure transparency in how these judgments were reached. We reassessed RoB based on the supporting comments reported in Cochrane RoB tables, in line with instructions from the Cochrane Handbook. Then, we compared our new assessments to judgments made by Cochrane authors. We compared the frequency of adequate judgments in reviews with two separate domains for blinding versus those with a joint domain for blinding.

Results

The total number of assessments for performance bias was 6918, with 8656 for detection bias and 3169 for the joint domain. The frequency of adequate assessments was 74% for performance bias, 78% for detection bias, and 59% for the joint domain. The lowest frequency of adequate assessments was found when Cochrane authors judged low risk – 47% in performance bias, 62% in detection bias, and 31% in the joint domain. The joint domain and detection bias domain had a similar proportion of specified outcome types (17% and 18%, respectively).

Conclusions

Splitting joint RoB assessment about blinding into two domains was justified because the frequency of adequate judgments was higher in separate domains. Specification of outcome types in RoB domains should be further scrutinized.
Illness perception and health care use in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome: results from an online survey
Authors: Schwille-Kiuntke Juliane , Rüdlin Solveig Lu , Junne Florian , Enck Paul , Brenk-Franz Katja , Zipfel Stephan , Rieger Monika A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Individual illness perception is known to influence a range of outcome variables. However, little is known regarding illness perception in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and its relation to the use of the health care system. This study hypothesised a relationship between illness perception and inappropriate health care use (under-, over- and misuse).

Methods

An internet-based, cross-sectional study in participants affected by IBS symptoms was carried out (April – October 2019) using open questions as well as validated standardized instruments, e.g. the illness perception questionnaire revised (IPQ-R) and its subscales. Sub-group comparisons were done non-parametrically and effect sizes were reported. Potential predictors of (1) conventional health care utilisation and (2) utilisation of treatment approaches with lacking or weak evidence regarding effectiveness in IBS were examined with logistic regression analyses and reported as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval.

Results

Data from 513 individuals were available. More than one-third (35.7%) of participants were classified as high utilisers (> 5 doctor visits during the last year). Several indicators of inappropriate health care use were detected, such as a low proportion of state-of-the-art gynaecological evaluation of symptoms (35.0% of women) and a high proportion of individuals taking ineffective and not recommended non-steroidal antirheumatic drugs for IBS (29.4%). A majority (57.7%) used treatment approaches with lacking or weak evidence regarding the effectiveness in IBS (e.g. homeopathy). Being a high utiliser as defined above was predicted by the perceived daily life consequences of IBS (IPQ-R subscale “consequences”, OR = 1.189 [1.100–1.284], p ≤ 0.001) and age (OR = 0.980 [0.962–0.998], p = 0.027). The use of treatment approaches with lacking or weak evidence was forecasted by the perceived daily life consequences (OR = 1.155 [1.091–1.223], p ≤ 0.001) and gender (reference category male: OR = 0.537 [0.327–0.881], p = 0.014), however effect sizes were small.

Conclusions

Daily life consequences, perceived cure and personal control as aspects of individual disease perception seem to be related to individuals’ health care use. These aspects should be a standard part of the medical interview and actively explored. To face inappropriate health care use patients and professionals need to be trained. Interdisciplinary collaborative care may contribute to enhanced quality of medical supply in IBS.
The longitudinal association between the use of antihypertensive medications and 24-hour sleep in nursing homes: results from the randomized controlled COSMOS trial
Authors: Flo-Groeneboom Elisabeth , Elvegaard Tony , Gulla Christine , Husebo Bettina S
Published: July 2021

Background

Antihypertensive medication use and sleep problems are highly prevalent in nursing home patients. While it is hypothesized that blood pressure and antihypertensive medication use can affect sleep, this has not been investigated in depth in this population. Alongside a multicomponent intervention including a systematic medication review, we aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between antihypertensive medication use, blood pressure and day- and night-time sleep over 4 months.

Methods

This study was based on secondary analyses from the multicomponent cluster randomized controlled COSMOS trial, in which the acronym denotes the intervention: COmmuncation, Systematic pain assessment and treatment, Medication review, Organization of activities and Safety. We included baseline and 4-month follow-up data from a subgroup of nursing home patients who wore actigraphs (n = 107). The subgroup had different levels of blood pressure, from low (< 120) to high (≥ 141). Assessments included blood pressure, antihypertensive medication use, and sleep parameters as assessed by actigraphy.

Results

We found a significant reduction in total sleep time at month four in the intervention group compared to the control group. When analysing the control group alone, we found a significant association between antihypertensive medication use and increased daytime sleep. We also found negative associations between blood pressure, antihypertensive medication use and sleep onset latency in the control group.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a correlation between excessive daytime sleep and antihypertensive medication use. These findings should be followed up with further research, and with clinical caution, as antihypertensive medications are frequently used in nursing homes, and sleep problems may be especially detrimental for this population.

Trial registration

The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02238652).