bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of serum glucose/potassium ratio as a predictor for delayed neuropsychiatric syndrome of carbon monoxide poisoning
Authors: Demirtaş E , Korkmaz İ , Tekin YK , Demirtaş Es , Çaltekin İ
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a crucial cause of delayed neuropsychiatric syndrome (DNS). However, most biomarkers are not satisfactory for the prediction of DNS caused by CO poisoning. Thus, we evaluated the adequacy of the serum glucose/potassium (GLU/K) ratio, which may be an easy, quick, and readily available parameter that can be used in the emergency department for predicting DNS.

Methods:

We evaluated 281 patients who were admitted to our emergency department between January 2012 and December 2018. The patients were divided into two groups: DNS (+) and DNS (−). The GLU/K was compared for the groups.

Results:

Glucose, blood urea nitrogen, carboxyhemoglobin, and GLU/K ratios of patients in the DNS (+) group were statistically significantly higher than those patients in DNS (−) group (140 ± 34 vs. 110 ± 24, p < 0.001; 17.58 ± 6.14 vs. 14.27 ± 5.08, p = 0.003; 29 ± 5.1 vs. 18.9 ± 7.6, p < 0.001; and 38.35 ± 10.11 vs. 28.65 ± 6.53, p < 0.001, respectively). The area under the curve for GLU/K to predict DNS was measured as 0.791, and 35.9 as a cut-off value had 63.6% sensitivity and 89.6% specificity.

Conclusions:

DNS development in CO poisoning is a serious and feared complication. We suggest that the GLU/K ratio has a high potential as a rapid, easy preliminary marker for the exclusion of patients who will not subsequently develop DNS.
Short term chronic toxicity of tributyltin on the testes of adult albino rats and the possible protective role of omega-3
Authors: Ahmed Marwa G , Ibrahim Mona El-Demerdash , El Sayed Hoda R , Ahmed Samah M
Published: August 2020

The declining rate of male fertility is a growing concern. Tributyltin (TBT) is a well-known endocrine disruptor (ED), that induces imposex in female gastropods and is widely used in various industrial applications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxic effects of TBT on the testes of adult albino rats and the possible role of omega-3. Forty two adult male albino rats were divided into five groups; control group (Group I) and four experimental groups: omega-3 treated group, TBT treated group, TBT & omega-3 treated group and follow up group. At the end of the study, the rats were subjected to biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical staining for Ki-67 and seminal examinations. Our results clarfied that TBT induced a significant decrease in testosterone, FSH, LH and serum glutathione peroxidase levels and a significant increase in the serum Malondialdehyde as compared to the control group. Tributyltin induced disorganization and shrinkage of seminiferous tubules, apoptosis, cellular damage and marked reduction in the germinal epithelium. A significant decrease in the cell proliferation and arrested spermatogenesis were also detected. Seminal analysis of TBT group showed a significant affection of all parameters as compared to other groups. Omega-3 ameliorated all of these hazardous effects. Follow up group still showed toxic effects. In conclusion, TBT has a toxic effect on the testis. Increased testicular oxidative stress, cellular damage and arrest of spermatogenesis with attenuation in antioxidant defenses are all contributing factors. Omega-3 can protect against TBT induced reproductive toxicity.
Non-linear piezoelectric fluidic energy harvesters: The mutual interaction of two oscillating cylinders
Authors: Azadeh-Ranjbar Vahid , Han Yi , Elvin Niell , Andreopoulos Yiannis
Published: August 2020

The presence of a bluff body upstream of a cantilever beam promotes persistent, aero-elastic vibrations of the beam. Vortex-induced vibration in an array of two mutually interacting bluff bodies in such configurations undergoing two-degrees of freedom transverse oscillation has not been investigated before. In the present work, we have studied experimentally, the unsteady response of an array of two similar rigid cylinders, positioned side-by-side in reference to the freestream velocity, each one mounted on the upstream end of an elastic cantilever beam. By fitting the beams with piezoelectric layers, these configurations are converted to piezoelectric fluid energy harvesters (PFEH) that can extract small amounts of energy from the flow. Comparing the performance of linear (L-PFEH), non-linear (NL-PFEH), and a non-linear array (NLA-PFEH) of harvesters show that NLA-PFEH has the widest broadband operating velocity range and the greatest generated power followed by NL-PFEH and then L-PFEH. The maximum electric power output of NLA-PFEH was ~1000% greater than for NL-PFEH with a corresponding ~250% increase in the operating velocity range. Different cylinder configurations reveal the presence of hysteresis in the behavior of NLA-PFEH when the distance between the cylinders (so-called cylinder gap to diameter ratio), G/ D < 0.5. At large distances from each other ( G/ D ≥ 4), the two cylinders behave like independent, isolated harvester units with rather weak mutual interaction.
Reversible and non-reversible motion of NdFeB-particles in magnetorheological elastomers
Authors: Schümann M , Borin D Yu , Morich J , Odenbach S
Published: August 2020

Magnetorheological elastomers are a class of smart hybrid material where magnetic microparticles are embedded in an elastomer matrix. The combination of elastic and magnetic properties leads to highly complex material behaviour, which is strongly affected by the arrangement and the magnetically induced motion of the magnetic particles. Thus, the knowledge of the internal particle structure is key to gain a deeper understanding of the complex material behaviour. In this paper, X-ray microtomography was applied to analyse the internal particle structure of a magnetorheological elastomer containing magnetically hard NdFeB-particles. A stepwise magnetisation of the material enabled a detailed characterisation of the occurring non-reversible chain formation process. Furthermore, the application of magnetic fields during measurements enabled an analysis of a mostly reversible particle motion occurring in connection with the magnetorheological effect. The collected tomography data of the particle structure was evaluated on a single particle basis as well as by means of a direction-dependent pair correlation function. To provide a scale bridging between macroscopic and microscopic properties, the found results regarding the particle motion were linked to mechanical and magnetic properties of the material.
Change in Initial Tympanostomy Tube Placement Timing Yields Decreased Burden of Care Without Increased Complications in Patients With Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Davis William , Cohen Marilyn A. , Matthews Martha S.
Published: August 2020

Objective:

To report a practice audit of the consequences of a change in protocol in the timing of placement of tympanostomy tubes in infants with cleft lip and palate.

Participants:

All children with a diagnosis of cleft lip and palate, treated between November 1998 and May 2006 under the old protocol, and between December 2012 and July 2016 under a new protocol. Under the old protocol, tympanostomy tubes were first inserted at the time of lip repair at around age 2 months. Under the new protocol, tympanostomy tubes were deferred until the time of palate repair around the age of 9 months. Children with syndromic diagnoses other than Stickler syndrome and Van der Woude syndrome, and children who failed newborn hearing screen were excluded.

Main Outcome Measures:

Incidence of otorrhea from birth to 6 months after palate repair and presence of hearing loss at ages 1 and 2.

Results:

Deferral of tympanostomy tubes until the time of palate repair decreases the burden of care due to otorrhea as compared to early tympanostomy tubes at the time of lip repair. There was no significant difference in the incidence of hearing thresholds at or below 15 dB at age 1 or 2.

Conclusions:

Placement of tympanostomy tubes at the time of palate repair balances the goals of minimizing the adverse effects from middle ear effusion and minimizing the burden of care on our patients and their families.
Spring-Assisted Distraction Osteogenesis for the Treatment of Shunt-Induced Craniosynostosis
Authors: Yan Yufan , Bacos Jonathan T. , DiPatri Arthur J. , Gosain Arun K.
Published: August 2020

Shunt-induced craniosynostosis is a rare complication of ventricular shunting for hydrocephalus in pediatric patients. Although the exact pathophysiology of this form of secondary craniosynostosis is not well understood, the current understanding is that persistent drainage of the ventricular shunt causes decreased dural tension, resulting in decreased expansile force on the cranium and premature sutural fusion. Due to the low incidence of this complication, there is no consensus on the ideal treatment for shunt-induced craniosynostosis. In recent years, distraction osteogenesis has been employed with greater frequency, as it is felt to counter the fundamental problem of decreased expansile force on the cranium. However, in a patient with a ventricular shunt, placement of external hardware in close proximity to the shunt could cause significant morbidity due to the increased risk of shunt infection. We present the management of a patient with shunt-induced craniosynostosis who continued to be shunt-dependent. We chose to use fully buried springs to create an expansile force on the cranium as an alternative to external distractors so as to mitigate the risk of infection. We demonstrate that spring-assisted distraction osteogenesis can be an effective treatment modality for patients with shunt-induced craniosynostosis. This method should be considered in patients with contraindications to external distraction devices, such as ongoing shunt dependency.
Behavioral Adjustment of Preschool Children With and Without Craniofacial Microsomia
Authors: Johns Alexis L. , Wallace Erin R. , Collett Brent R. , Kapp-Simon Kathleen A. , Drake Amelia F. , Heike Carrie L. , Kinter Sara L. , Luquetti Daniela V. , Magee Leanne , Norton Susan , Sie Kathleen , Speltz Matthew L.
Published: August 2020

Objective:

The study aim was to assess behavioral adjustment in preschool children with and without craniofacial microsomia (CFM).

Design:

Multisite cohort study of preschoolers with CFM (“cases”) or without CFM (“controls”).

Participants:

Mothers (89%), fathers (9%), and other caregivers (2%) of 161 preschoolers.

Outcome Measure:

Child Behavior Check List (CBCL 1.5-5); linear regressions with standardized effect sizes (ES) adjusted for sociodemographic confounds.

Results:

Child Behavior Check Lists for 89 cases and 72 controls (average age 38.3 ± 1.9 months). Children were male (54%), white (69%), and of Latino ethnicity (47%). Cases had microtia with mandibular hypoplasia (52%), microtia only (30%), or other CFM-associated features (18%). Nearly 20% of cases had extracranial anomalies. Composite CBCL scores were in the average range compared to test norms and similar for cases and controls. On the subscales, cases’ parents reported higher Anxious/Depressed scores (ES = 0.35, P = .04), Stress Problems (ES = 0.40, P = .04), Anxiety Problems (ES = 0.34, P = .04), and Autism Spectrum Problems (ES = 0.41, P = .02); however, the autism subscale primarily reflected speech concerns. Among cases, more problems were reported for children with extracranial anomalies and certain phenotypic categories with small ES.

Conclusions:

Behavioral adjustment of preschoolers with CFM was comparable to peers. However, parental reports reflected greater concern for internalizing behaviors; thus, anxiety screening and interventions may benefit children with CFM. Among cases, more problems were reported for those with more complex presentations of CFM. Craniofacial microsomia–related speech problems should be distinguished from associated psychosocial symptoms during developmental evaluations.
Considering Response Communities: Spaces of Appearance in Narrative Inquiry
Authors: Caine Vera , Clandinin Jean , Lessard Sean
Published: August 2020

We focus on the place of response communities in narrative inquiry. While we have always engaged in response communities, the theoretical basis for their importance is not well developed. Experiences in response communities allow us to be, and live, in the world in ways marked by courage and vulnerability. Response communities are created to help us further our field texts and interim and final research texts and to provide insight into our present and future stories. Response communities help us understand ourselves, within what Arendt calls public spaces. Arendt helps us conceptualize response communities as spaces of appearance.
Assessment of the cutaneous trunci reflex in neurologically healthy cats
Authors: Foss Kari D , Hague Devon W , Selmic Laura
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to perform the cutaneous trunci reflex (CTR) in neurologically normal cats using two different instruments and determine how body condition score (BCS), body circumference, age, sex and instrument type may affect this reflex.

Methods

Sixty-five cats without evidence of neurologic disease were prospectively enrolled. Cats were randomly assigned to have the reflex tested first using a pair of hemostatic forceps or the integrated Babinski tip of an MDF Babinski Buck Reflex Hammer. After 30 mins, the reflex was retested using the other instrument. Data collected included the reflex presence, reflex caudal border, reflex intensity (weak, moderate, strong) and reflex symmetry (unilateral or bilateral). The influence of BCS, body circumference, age and sex on these variables was statistically evaluated along with effect of the instrument used.

Results

The CTR was elicited bilaterally in 52 (80%) cats and unilaterally in 64 (98%) cats. In two cats, the CTR was only able to be elicited using the Buck Reflex Hammer, while in four cats, the CTR was only able to be elicited using hemostatic forceps. Body circumference, BCS, age and sex had no effect on the presence, caudal border, intensity or symmetry of the CTR, regardless of the instrument used. No difference in the bilateral presence of the CTR was noted based on the instrument used first ( P = 0.53). When assessing the influence of the instrument on reflex presence, caudal border, intensity and symmetry, the hemostatic forceps elicited the reflex further caudally ( P = 0.02) and usually bilaterally ( P = 0.02).

Conclusions and relevance

The CTR could be elicited in the majority of cats with both instruments. However, hemostatic forceps elicited a reflex more caudally and bilaterally symmetrical than the Buck Reflex Hammer.
Ecological Exploration of Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Among Primary School Children, Teachers, and Parents in Wales: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Brown Rachel , Van Godwin Jordan , Copeland Lauren , Hallingberg Britt , Angel Lianna , MacDonald Sarah , Segrott Jeremy , Moore Graham
Published: August 2020

Experimentation with e-cigarettes has grown rapidly among UK adolescents. To date, this topic has been primarily researched in secondary schools, with less understanding of development of attitudes and behaviours at an earlier age. This research reports qualitative data from interviews with pupils, parents, and teachers at 4 case study schools in Wales (N = 42). It draws on Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory to consider how the intersection of systems surrounding primary school-age children and their interaction with these systems, shape knowledge, and attitudes towards e-cigarettes and tobacco. Findings indicate that consistent messaging on smoking from school and family was reflected in strong disapproval among pupils and clear understanding of harms. This was less evident for e-cigarettes, where messages were mixed and inconsistent between home and school, with concerns over what to tell children about e-cigarettes in light of mixed messages and absence of official guidance. Implications of findings for policy and teaching are discussed.
Willingness to pay for a telemedicine-delivered healthy lifestyle programme
Authors: Rauch Vanessa K , Roderka Meredith , McClure Auden C , Weintraub Aaron B , Curtis Kevin , Kotz David F , Rothstein Richard I , Batsis John A
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Effective weight-management interventions require frequent interactions with specialised multidisciplinary teams of medical, nutritional and behavioural experts to enact behavioural change. However, barriers that exist in rural areas, such as transportation and a lack of specialised services, can prevent patients from receiving quality care.

Methods

We recruited patients from the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Weight & Wellness Center into a single-arm, non-randomised study of a remotely delivered 16-week evidence-based healthy lifestyle programme. Every 4 weeks, participants completed surveys that included their willingness to pay for services like those experienced in the intervention. A two-item Willingness-to-Pay survey was administered to participants asking about their willingness to trade their face-to-face visits for videoconference visits based on commute and copay.

Results

Overall, those with a travel duration of 31–45 min had a greater willingness to trade in-person visits for telehealth than any other group. Participants who had a travel duration less than 15 min, 16–30 min and 46–60 min experienced a positive trend in willingness to have telehealth visits until Week 8, where there was a general negative trend in willingness to trade in-person visits for virtual. Participants believed that telemedicine was useful and helpful.

Conclusions

In rural areas where patients travel 30–45 min a telemedicine-delivered, intensive weight-loss intervention may be a well-received and cost-effective way for both patients and the clinical care team to connect.
Who can I turn to? Social networks and the housing, care and support preferences of older lesbian and gay people in the UK
Authors: Lottmann Ralf , King Andrew
Published: August 2020

What happens when lesbian and gay people, who are more likely to be childless and single than their heterosexual peers, get older and need support and care? Who can they turn to? In addressing this question, this article draws on data collected as part of a wider project concerning the housing preferences, experiences and concerns of older LGBT people in the United Kingdom. The article explores the social networks that older lesbian and gay people expect to utilise later in life if they require different forms of care. It uses social capital theory and considers the role of ‘families of choice’ in older lesbian and gay people’s lives, questioning whether such bonds may or may not be useful for different forms of care and support older lesbian and gay people may require late in life.
‘X Journalism’.Exploring journalism’s diverse meanings through the names we give it
Authors: Loosen Wiebke , Ahva Laura , Reimer Julius , Solbach Paul , Deuze Mark , Matzat Lorenz
Published: August 2020

In this article we propose the notion of X Journalism as an observational tool and concept. It owes its existence to a simple observation: the evolution of journalism is accompanied by the emergence of ever-new journalism-related terms, i.e. combinations of the word ‘journalism’ with a particular modifying term that represents and signals a certain specificity and novelty. Examples include ‘robot journalism’, ‘foundation-funded journalism’, ‘cross-border journalism’, or ‘solutions journalism’ – just to name a few. To date, we have collected and mapped 166 X journalisms and have ‘crowd-categorized’ them into clusters according to the different aspects they refer to. We explore X Journalism as a concept, present our mapping, and show how it can help to cope with journalism’s increasing complexity, grasp the diversity of the field, trace its constant evolution, as well as identify patterns and interrelations between these different movements and occurrences. Through a test case of audience-related X journalisms we demonstrate an empirical application before illustrating the theoretical compatibility of X Journalism and suggesting a research agenda that highlights potentials for X Journalism-driven studies.
Analysis of systemic inflammatory biomarkers in neuroendocrine carcinomas of the lung: prognostic and predictive significance of NLR, LDH, ALI, and LIPI score
Authors: Galvano Antonio , Peri Marta , Guarini Aurelia Ada , Castiglia Marta , Grassadonia Antonino , De Tursi Michele , Irtelli Luciana , Rizzo Sergio , Bertani Alessandro , Gristina Valerio , Barraco Nadia , Russo Antonio , Natoli Clara , Bazan Viviana
Published: August 2020

Background:

Lung neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) is characterized by aggressive clinical behavior and lack of treatment advances. We evaluate the prognostic and the predictive roles of systemic inflammatory biomarkers in patient circulating blood: neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI), and the Lung Immune Prognostic Index (LIPI) score.

Methods:

A total of 120 patients with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) ( n = 110) and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) ( n = 10) were enrolled. Overall survival (OS) was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier estimator and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed to determine prognostic factors associated with OS while χ2 test was used for categorical data.

Results:

NLR cutoff value was 1.93. NLR was measured before and after first-line chemotherapy; 25 (21%) patients had higher NLR (delta NLR >1), whereas NLR was lower in 37 (31%). At the univariate analysis, median OS was 12 months: OS for SCLC and LCNEC were 11 months and 14 months, respectively. OS had a prognostic positive value in patients with pre-treatment NLR <1.93 ( p = 0.0002), LDH <600 U/L ( p = 0,03) and ALI ⩾34 ( p = 0,0065). At the multivariate analysis, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, LDH levels and response after first-line chemotherapy were independently associated with OS. Median OS for good, intermediate, and poor LIPI was 15 months, 11 months, and 9 months, respectively( p = 0.091). Patients with higher NLR (>1.93) had an increased probability of tumor progression ( p = 0.045, χ2 test).

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that systemic inflammatory biomarkers could facilitate the understanding of survival differences in the clinical management of lung NEC patients, underlying the need for prospective biomarker-driven studies in the immune checkpoint inhibitors setting.
Reliability of the “Clinical Tibiofibular Line” Technique for Open Syndesmosis Reduction Assessment
Authors: Pollizzi Anthony A. , Herman Daniel C. , Berlet Gregory C. , Reb Christopher W.
Published: August 2020

Background:

When intraoperative computed tomography (CT) is unavailable, open syndesmosis assessment is a universally available, safe alternative that is more accurate than radiographic assessment. However, it has a documented malreduction rate of up to 16%. This may be improved upon with a validated technique for assessing the accuracy of open syndesmosis reductions. The “tibiofibular line” (TFL) is a CT-based technique found to be sensitive for malreduction. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of adapting the CT-TFL method into a reliable intraoperative open technique by refining the methodology of previous work exploring the clinical TFL technique.

Methods:

Three observers were instructed to clinically simulate the TFL on cadaveric lower limbs. For each specimen, observers repeated and recorded 3 clinical TFL measurements for each of 4 measurement series representing different degrees of fibula reduction. Intraclass correlation was used to assess intra- and interobserver reliabilities.

Results:

Mean intraobserver reliability was .88. Mean interobserver reliability was .75. Both intra- and interobserver reliabilities were highest for anatomic syndesmosis reduction.

Conclusion:

The findings of excellent to near perfect intraobserver and good to excellent interobserver reliability indicate the feasibility of translating the CT-TFL into a reliable open technique.

Levels of Evidence:

Level III: Diagnostic study
Drinking “Green”: What Drives Organic Wine Consumption in an Emerging Wine Market
Authors: Chi Christina Geng-Qing , Ouyang Zhe (Chris) , Lu Lu , Zou Rong
Published: August 2020

The global fever for wine demands concerted endeavors for understanding determinants of wine consumers’ purchase decisions. Applying the cognitive appraisal theory, this study aims to identify factors that motivate Chinese consumers to purchase organic wines by incorporating consumers’ values (i.e., health consciousness), cognitive evaluations (i.e., social trust), and affective references (i.e., positive emotion) into the conceptual model. Moreover, the moderating effect of product familiarity on the conceptual model is examined. A multistage data collection via multiple sample techniques was employed. A total of 1,745 responses were collected in a 2-year duration from all 33 Provincial Level Administrative Units in China. The findings confirm the significant role of the three antecedents on consumers’ purchase intention of organic wines, regardless of their product familiarity level. It is also found that the relative importance of the three antecedents to consumers’ purchase intention show different patterns for consumers with varying levels of product familiarity. Implications of the study are drawn based on the study findings.
“Coronavirus EXPLAINED”: YouTube, COVID-19, and the Socio-Technical Mediation of Expertise
Authors: Marchal Nahema , Au Hubert
Published: August 2020

Since the coronavirus outbreak, YouTube has altered its content moderation policies to surface more “authoritative information” while removing videos that contain “medically unsubstantiated claims.” This was made urgent by incidents like a live-stream interview of renowned British conspiracy theorist David Icke—in which he falsely linked the spread of the coronavirus to 5G technology—that gained substantial traction online. Behind these events, however, lies a tension between the need for authoritative medical information and the socio-technical mediation that enables multiple, competing voices to lay claim to such authority on YouTube; a tension exacerbated by the current pandemic. Following an investigation into the sources and types of video content average users were likely to see when searching for information about the coronavirus on the site, we suggest that through its incentive structure and participatory affordances, YouTube may have subordinated expertise to a logic of likability—leaving institutional experts trailing behind.
Food and Migration: Dietary Acculturation among Migrants to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Rabiee Khan Fatemeh , Alzeidan Rasmieh , Tharkar Shabana , Ullah Anhar , Hersi Ahmed S.
Published: August 2020

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a large migrant workforce particularly from North Africa, other Gulf states and South Asia. Migration influences food behavior; however, the change is not often health conducive. This study aimed to investigate the dietary acculturation among 880 migrants and their families in a large University in the Kingdoms’ capital city, Riyadh.

Methods:

A cross sectional study design was used based on 2 questionnaires; Rosenmoller et al’s and the WHO STEPS surveillance tool for chronic disease surveillance. Data on length of residency, dietary patterns, anthropometric and biochemical measurements were collected by trained interviewers. Descriptive statistics were reported as a percentage or mean, as appropriate. Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test or independent t test, Univariate and Multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to compare the significance between variables.

Results:

Both male and female participants showed a similar mean age (39.7 and 38.5 years). Approximately 61% of them had <5 year’s duration of residency. Significant gender differences were observed in blood pressure and biochemical measurements, with men showing higher mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure and dyslipidemia than women ( P < .001). Women had significantly higher BMI ( P < .001), showed higher mean food practice ( P < .001) and awareness scores than men.

Conclusions:

Migration into Saudi Arabia from this subgroup showed marked changes in the food practice; acquisition of unhealthy dietary practices also co-existed despite improved awareness and the presence of comorbidities. Findings from this study have relevance to other migrant communities and public health policy.
Investigating Students’ Attitudes Toward Arabic and English Textbooks in Communication and Media
Authors: Kaba Abdoulaye , Abdullah Abdulrahman Dheyab
Published: August 2020

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the attitude of students toward Arabic and English textbooks in communication and media. The study used a survey questionnaire to collect data. A total of 157 university students, consisting of 95 females and 62 males, participated in the study. English textbooks received the highest satisfaction from male students, students specialized in journalism, students of the age group of 18 to 25 years, and third-year students. Arabic textbooks received the highest satisfaction from female students, students specializing in public relations, and fourth-year students. However, the overall results indicate that the English textbooks outperformed the Arabic textbooks in terms of easy access and use, the quality of print and design, provision of visual and graphic images, provision of activities and exercises, and quality of contents. The article suggests major changes and improvement in writing and publishing Arabic textbooks. Findings of the study suggest needs of major changes and improvement in writing and publishing Arabic textbooks.
Posterior Retinotomy vs Perfluorocarbon Liquid to Aid Drainage of Subretinal Fluid During Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Repair (PRO Study Report No. 10)
Authors: Vo Loi V. , Ryan Edwin H. , Ryan Claire M. , Shah Gaurav K. , Gupta Omesh P. , Capone Antonio , Eliott Dean , Yonekawa Yoshihiro , Bhavsar Abdhish R. , Emerson M. Vaughn , Jones Jacob M. , Emerson Geoffrey G.
Published: August 2020

Purpose:

This work compares posterior retinotomy vs perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) for subretinal fluid (SRF) drainage during pars plana vitrectomy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Methods:

In this large, multicenter, retrospective comparative study, 2620 patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy (with or without scleral buckle) for uncomplicated RRD. Patients for whom SRF was drained via the primary break without retinotomy or PFCL were excluded; those who required both retinotomy and PFCL were similarly excluded. Remaining patients were separated into “retinotomy” and “PFCL” cohorts. Subgroup analysis was conducted for macula-on and macula-off subgroups. Postoperative outcomes were analyzed and compared.

Results:

A total of 760 eyes (82.7%) had retinotomy and 159 eyes (17.3%) had PFCL for drainage of SRF, and baseline characteristics between the 2 groups were similar. Postoperative analysis showed similar outcomes between the retinotomy and PFCL cohorts, including final visual acuity ( P = .19), redetachment rate ( P = .30), anatomic success ( P = .28), presence of postoperative epiretinal membrane ( P = .75), and other macular pathologies ( P > .99). Subgroup analysis yielded similar outcomes for macula-on and macula-off subgroups. Postoperative presence of retained PFCL was 2.4%, possibly a factor in the slightly higher number of subsequent surgical procedures ( P = .03) in the PFCL cohort.

Conclusions:

Postoperative outcomes for retinotomy vs PFCL during RRD repair are comparable, aside from slightly greater number of subsequent surgical procedures needed in the PFCL cohort. Our analysis suggests both techniques are reasonable tools in the repair of macula-on or macula-off RRD.
Could high DNA stainability (HDS) be a valuable indicator of sperm nuclear integrity?
Authors: Mohammadi Z. , Tavalaee M. , Gharagozloo P. , Drevet J. R. , Nasr-Esfahani M. H.
Published: August 2020

Background

The Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA®), in addition to identifying the DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) also identifies High DNA satiability (HDS), supposed to reflect the nuclear compaction of spermatozoa. However, data on what exactly this parameter reveals, its relevance and usefulness are contradictory. In order to shed light on this situation, spermatozoa of a cohort (N = 397) of infertile men were subjected to the SCSA®, TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling) and CMA3 (Chromomycin A3) tests. In a smaller subcohort (N = 100), aniline blue (AB) and toluidine blue (TB) staining were performed in addition. The objective of this study was thus to answer the question of whether HDS is a relevant and reliable parameter to be taken into account?

Results

HDS does not appear to be a reliable indicator of nuclear immaturity because it shows a weak correlation with the CMA3, AB and TB stains. The low correlation of HDS with sperm DNA fragmentation (TUNEL and SCSA®) and DNA condensation (CMA3, AB and TB) tests suggests that these two parameters could be decoupled. Unlike DFI and TUNEL, HDS has not been shown to correlate with classic clinical situations of male infertility (asthenozoospermia, teratozoospermia or astheno-teratozoospermia).

Conclusion

HDS correlates poorly with most tests that focus specifically on the level of maturity of the sperm nucleus. To our knowledge, this study is the first to compare SCSA®, TUNEL, AB, TB and CMA3 assays on identical samples. It shows the potency, consistency and limitations of each test and the care that must be taken in their interpretation.
A girl with MIRAGE syndrome who developed steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome: a case report
Authors: Ishiwa Sho , Kamei Koichi , Tanase-Nakao Kanako , Shibata Shinsuke , Matsunami Kunihiro , Takeuchi Ichiro , Sato Mai , Ishikura Kenji , Narumi Satoshi
Published: August 2020

Background

MIRAGE syndrome is a recently discovered rare genetic disease characterized by myelodysplasia (M), infection (I), growth restriction (R), adrenal hypoplasia (A), genital phenotypes (G), and enteropathy (E), caused by a gain-of-function mutation in the SAMD9 gene. We encountered a girl with molecularly-confirmed MIRAGE syndrome who developed steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome.

Case presentation

She was born at 33 weeks gestational age with a birth weight of 1064 g. She showed growth failure, mild developmental delays, intractable enteropathy and recurrent pneumonia. She was diagnosed as MIRAGE syndrome by whole exome sequencing and a novel SAMD9 variant (c.4615 T > A, p.Leu1539Ile) was identified at age four. Biopsied skin fibroblast cells showed changes in the endosome system that are characteristic of MIRAGE syndrome, supporting the genetic diagnosis. Proteinuria was noted at age one, following nephrotic syndrome at age five. A renal biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) with immune deposits. Steroid treatment was ineffective. Because we speculated that her nephrosis was a result of genetic FSGS, we decided not to introduce immunosuppressive agents and instead started enalapril to reduce proteinuria. Although her proteinuria persisted, her renal function was normal at age eight.

Conclusions

This is the first detailed report of a MIRAGE syndrome patient with nephrotic syndrome. Because patients with MIRAGE syndrome have structural abnormalities in the endosomal system, we speculate that dysfunction of endocytosis in podocytes might be a possible mechanism for proteinuria.
Evaluating the process of partnership and research in global health: reflections from the STRIPE project
Authors: Kalbarczyk Anna , Rao Aditi , Mahendradhata Yodi , Majumdar Piyusha , Decker Ellie , Anwar Humayra Binte , Akinyemi Oluwaseun O. , Rahimi Ahmad Omid , Kayembe Patrick , Alonge Olakunle O.
Published: August 2020

Background

Thoughtful and equitable engagement with international partners is key to successful research. STRIPE, a consortium of 8 academic and research institutions across the globe whose objective is to map, synthesize, and disseminate lessons learned from polio eradication, conducted a process evaluation of this partnership during the project’s first year which focused on knowledge mapping activities.

Methods

The STRIPE consortium is led by Johns Hopkins University (JHU) in partnership with 6 universities and 1 research consultancy organization in polio free, at-risk, and endemic countries. In December 2018 JHU team members submitted written reflections on their experiences (n = 9). We held calls with each consortium member to solicit additional feedback (n = 7). To establish the partnership evaluation criteria we conducted preliminary analyses based on Blackstock’s framework evaluating participatory research. In April 2019, an in-person consortium meeting was held; one member from each institution was asked to join a process evaluation working group. This group reviewed the preliminary criteria, adding, subtracting, and combining as needed; the final evaluation criteria were applied to STRIPE’s research process and partnership and illustrative examples were provided.

Results

Twelve evaluation criteria were defined and applied by each member of the consortium to their experience in the project. These includedaccess to resources,expectation setting,organizational context,external context,quality of information,relationship building,transparency,motivation,scheduling,adaptation,communication and engagement, andcapacity building. For each criteria members of the working group reflected on general and context-specific challenges and potential strategies to overcome them. Teams suggested providing more time for recruitment, training, reflection, pre-testing. and financing to alleviate resource constraints. Given the large scope of the project, competing priorities, and shifting demands the working group also suggested a minimum of one full-time project coordinator in each setting to manage resources.

Conclusion

Successful management of multi-country, multicentered implementation research requires comprehensive communication tools (which to our knowledge do not exist yet or are not readily available), expectation setting, and institutional support. Capacity building activities that address human resource needs for both individuals and their institutions should be incorporated into early project planning.
Sampling method for surveying complex and multi-institutional partnerships: lessons from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative
Authors: Peters Michael A. , Deressa Wakgari , Sarker Malabika , Sharma Neeraj , Owoaje Eme , Ahmad Riris Andono , Saljuqi Tawab , Mafuta Eric , Alonge Olakunle
Published: August 2020

Background

Complex global initiatives, like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), have prevented millions of paralyses and improved the health status of diverse populations. Despite the logistical challenges these initiatives must overcome at several levels, scant methods exist for systematically identifying and reaching a range of actors involved in their implementation. As a result, efforts to document the lessons learned from such initiatives are often incomplete. This paper describes the development and application of the Synthesis and Translation of Research and Innovations from Polio Eradication (STRIPE) systematic approach for identifying a comprehensive sample of actors involved in the GPEI.

Results

The survey for collecting lessons learned from the GPEI was conducted at the global level and within seven countries that represented GPEI operational contexts. Standard organizational and operational levels, as well as goals of program activities, were defined across contexts. Each survey iteration followed similar methodologies to theorize a target population or “universe” of all polio-related actors in the study area, enumerate a source population of specific individuals within the target population, and administer the survey to individuals within the source population. Based on the systematic approach used to obtain a comprehensive sample for lessons learned in GPEI, steps for obtaining a comprehensive sample for studying complex initiatives can be summarized as follows: (i) State research goal(s); (ii) Describe the program of interest; (iii) Define a sampling universe to meet these criteria; (iv) Estimate the size of the sampling universe; (v) Enumerate a source population within the universe that can be feasibly reached for sampling; (vi) Sample from the source population; and (vii) Reflect on the process to determine strength of inferences drawn.

Conclusions

The application of these methods can inform future evaluations of complex public health initiatives, resulting in better adoption of lessons learned, ultimately improving efficacy and efficiency, and resulting in significant health gains. Their use to administer the STRIPE lessons learned survey reflects experiences related to implementation challenges and strategies used to overcome barriers from actors across an extensive range of organizational, programming, and contextual settings.
Motion-preserving treatment of unstable atlas fracture: transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate
Authors: Zou Xiaobao , Ouyang Beiping , Wang Binbin , Yang Haozhi , Ge Su , Chen Yuyue , Ni Ling , Zhang Shuang , Xia Hong , Wu Zenghui , Ma Xiangyang
Published: August 2020

Background

C1-ring osteosynthesis is a valid alternative to posterior C1–C2 or C0–C2 fusion to preserve important C1–C2 motion in the treatment of unstable atlas fractures. Nevertheless, the fixation instruments used in current studies for transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis were not suitable for anterior anatomy of the atlas or did not have reduction mechanism. We therefore present this report to investigate preliminary clinical effects of transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate in unstable atlas fractures.

Methods

From January 2014 to December 2017, 13 patients with unstable atlas fractures were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were treated with transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate. Pre- and postoperative images were obtained to assess reduction of the fracture, internal fixation placement, and bone union. Neurological function, range of motion, and pain levels were evaluated clinically on follow-up.

Results

The surgeries were successfully performed in all cases. The average follow-up duration was 16.6 ± 4.4 months (range 12–24 months). One patient suffered screw loosening after operation and underwent replacement operation subsequently. Satisfactory clinical outcomes were achieved in all patients with ideal fracture reduction, reliable plate placement, well-preserved range of motion, and neck pain alleviation. All patients achieved bone union of fractures without loss of reduction or implant failure or C1–C2 instability during the follow-up. No vascular or neurological complication was noted during the operation and follow-up.

Conclusions

Transoral anterior C1-ring osteosynthesis using a laminoplasty plate is a effective surgical treatment for unstable atlas fractures. This technique has a ingenious reduction mechanism, and can provide satisfactory bone union and preservation of C1–C2 motion.
Acute changes of global and longitudinal right ventricular function: an exploratory analysis in patients undergoing open-chest mitral valve surgery, percutaneous mitral valve repair and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Keller Marius , Heller Tim , Lang Tobias , Patzelt Johannes , Schreieck Juergen , Schlensak Christian , Rosenberger Peter , Magunia Harry
Published: August 2020

Background

Right ventricular (RV) function is an important prognostic indicator. The acute effects of cardiac interventions or cardiac surgery on global and longitudinal RV function are not entirely understood. In this study, acute changes of RV function during mitral valve surgery (MVS), percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) and off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) were investigated employing 3D echocardiography.

Methods

Twenty patients scheduled for MVS, 23 patients scheduled for PMVR and 25 patients scheduled for OPCAB were included retrospectively if patients had received 3D transesophageal echocardiography before and immediately after MVS, PMVR or OPCAB, respectively. RV global and longitudinal function was assessed using a 3D multiparameter set consisting of global right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), longitudinal contribution to RVEF (RVEFlong) and free wall longitudinal strain (FWLS).

Results

Longitudinal RV function was significantly depressed immediately after MVS, as reflected by all parameters (RVEFlong: 20 ± 5% vs. 13 ± 6%,p <  0.001, TAPSE: 13.1 ± 5.1 mm vs. 11.0 ± 3.5 mm,p = 0.04 and FWLS: −20.1 ± 7.1% vs. -15.4 ± 5.1%, p <  0.001, respectively). The global RVEF was slightly impaired, but the difference did not reach significance (37 ± 13% vs. 32 ± 9%,p = 0.15). In the PMVR group, both global and longitudinal RV function parameters were unaltered, whereas the OPCAB group showed a slight reduction of RVEFlongonly (18 ± 7% vs. 14 ± 5%,p <  0.01). RVEFlongyielded moderate case-to-case but good overall reproducibility.

Conclusions

TAPSE, FWLS and RVEFlongreflect the depression of longitudinal compared to global RV function initially after MVS. PMVR alone had no impact, while OPCAB had a slight impact on longitudinal RV function. The prognostic implications of these phenomena remain unclear and require further investigation.
Tissue alkaline phosphatase activity and expression in an experimental infant swine model of cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest
Authors: Khailova Ludmila , Robison Justin , Jaggers James , Ing Richard , Lawson Scott , Treece Amy , Soranno Danielle , Osorio Lujan Suzanne , Davidson Jesse A.
Published: August 2020

Background

Infant cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass results in decreased circulating alkaline phosphatase that is associated with poor postoperative outcomes. Bovine intestinal alkaline phosphatase infusion represents a novel therapy for post-cardiac surgery organ injury. However, the effects of cardiopulmonary bypass and bovine-intestinal alkaline phosphatase infusion on tissue-level alkaline phosphatase activity/expression are unknown.

Methods

Infant pigs (n = 20) underwent cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest followed by four hours of intensive care. Seven control animals underwent mechanical ventilation only. Cardiopulmonary bypass/deep hypothermic circulatory arrest animals were given escalating doses of bovine intestinal alkaline phosphatase infusion (0-25 U/kg/hr.; n = 5/dose). Kidney, liver, ileum, jejunum, colon, heart and lung were collected for measurement of tissue alkaline phosphatase activity and mRNA.

Results

Tissue alkaline phosphatase activity varied significantly across organs with the highest levels found in the kidney and small intestine. Cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest resulted in decreased kidney alkaline phosphatase activity and increased lung alkaline phosphatase activity, with no significant changes in the other organs. Alkaline phosphatase mRNA expression was increased in both the lung and the ileum. The highest dose of bovine intestinal alkaline phosphatase resulted in increased kidney and liver tissue alkaline phosphatase activity.

Conclusions

Changes in alkaline phosphatase activity after cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and bovine intestinal alkaline phosphatase delivery are tissue specific. Kidneys, lung, and ileal alkaline phosphatase appear most affected by cardiopulmonary bypass with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest and further research is warranted to determine the mechanism and biologic importance of these changes.