bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dealing with ‘Returns’: African Decolonization and Repatriation to Italy, 1947–70
Authors: Vigo Alessandra
Published: March 2022

The repatriation of many citizens to Italy from the former colonies, and from other Italian communities in Africa, between the Second World War and the late 1960s, had a significant impact on the country. Compatriots coming back from Africa forced Italian institutions to deal with problems of reception and resettlement and made the consequences of African decolonization evident in the peninsula. Looking at three different cases of repatriation, the return of settlers from Italian ex-colonies (Libya, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia), and the return of Italians from Tunisia and Egypt, this article aims to display the political strategies enacted by post-war Italy in order to cope with citizens returning from Africa. The comparative approach highlights the political reasons that guided the State's action during the long repatriation. Italian governments had different attitudes towards the returnees, depending on the purposes of domestic and foreign policy but also on their places of departure and the supposed more difficult assimilation of certain groups of repatriates. In this regard, the article argues that the definitive resettlement in the peninsula of the returnees from Tunisia and Egypt was especially discouraged by the institutions, which long tried to divert those flows of migration to other destinations.
Causal Inference: Onward and Upward!
Authors: Listl S. , Matsuyama Y. , Jürges H.
Published: March 2022

When announcing the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel 2021, the Royal Swedish Academy emphasized how conclusions about cause and effect can be drawn from natural experiments. But what can dental research learn from this? The economist’s toolbox provides a number of methods for causal inference from observational data such as instrumental variables, regression discontinuity designs, or difference-in-differences analyses. Although the relevance of improving causal inference in dental research has repeatedly been highlighted in recent years, dental research still seems to reveal major room for improvement in the application of such methods. First, there seems to be an absence of causal literature on key essential research questions for oral health. Second, the diversity and diffusion of causal inferential methods in the dental literature seem very limited so far. Third, while dental research has widely been promoting the use of directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to help conceptualize causal thinking, comparably little attention seems to have been paid to choosing and applying appropriate data-analytic approaches for causal inference. Fourth, similar to other fields of medicine, confusion seems to persist within the dental research community as to the use of causal language. If dental research is to secure a robust evidence base for promoting effective oral health interventions, we argue that dental research needs to move beyond its current methodological echo chamber and embrace a radically different approach to causal inference. We call for editors, reviewers, and authors to embrace a much more critically reflective approach to causal inference.
Procurement Practice of Program Drugs and Its Challenges at the Ethiopian Pharmaceuticals Supply Agency: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Boche Bekele , Mulugeta Tidenek , Gudeta Tadesse
Published: March 2022

Background

Effective drug procurement guarantees the sustainable supply of products for health and eliminates excessive costs. However, there is limited information on the area of pharmaceutical procurement practice in Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed at assessing the procurement practices of program drugs and its challenges at the Ethiopian Pharmaceuticals Supply Agency.

Methods

A cross-sectional study accompanied by qualitative assessment was conducted between February 21 and April 20/2020 to examine the procurement practice of the Ethiopian pharmaceutical supply agency. The quantitative data were gathered by reviewing documents and electronic records. Mean forecast error, price paid to international price reference, number of emergency orders placed, and lead time variability were the measurements used to assess the procurement practice. A statistical package for the social sciences version 23 was used to analyze the data. The results were then summarized using tables and texts. The qualitative data were collated through face-to-face in-depth interviews to explore the challenges behind the procurement practice. And the data were analyzed manually using the thematic analysis technique.

Results

The agency had its own procurement list which defines the items to be procured. The overall mean forecast error in the 2018/19 budget year was 27.8%. Of the 70 program commodities included in the study, 52 (74.3%) items had a mean price less than the international price reference. Three of the 14 orders (21.4%) placed in the aforementioned year were emergency purchases made through direct procurement. The mean lead time for the suppliers of the agency was 137.3 days. Poor data quality from service delivery points, staff capacity constraints, communication problems, and policy issues became the major challenges to implement an effective procurement system in the agency.

Conclusion

The procurement practice at the agency has strong side. However, it was not without weaknesses. Using a procurement list is a worthwhile practice. Despite this, much remains to improve lead times and forecasting accuracy.
I Buy Medicines From the Streets Because I Am Poor: A Qualitative Account on why the Informal Market for Medicines Thrive in Ivory Coast
Authors: Dagrou Armel , Chimhutu Victor
Published: March 2022

The informal market for medicines has been growing. In Ivory Coast, this informal market is an unofficial core part of the health system. Given the risks associated with the informal market for medicines, it is important to understand why this market continues to grow. It becomes even more important in the context of COVID-19, as a huge chunk of falsified medical products end up at the informal market. A qualitative case study design was chosen for this study, with in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) being the methods for data collection. 20 IDIs and 3 FGDs were conducted. Participants in this study are sellers, buyers, and pharmaceutical experts. We found out that the informal market for medicines thrives because it is highly accessible, convenient, affordable, and that it is used for various social, cultural, and religious reasons. The study concludes that although this informal market presents a clear danger to public health, it is thriving. For authorities to address this public health challenge, there is need for a holistic and multi-pronged approach, which includes addressing health systems factors and strengthening regulatory framework.
Parenting Stress Among Adolescent Mothers: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Flaherty Serena C. , Sadler Lois S.
Published: March 2022

Adverse maternal and child outcomes are associated with parenting stress. Adolescent mothers may be particularly susceptible to parenting stress because of conflicting parenting and developmental demands. We performed an integrative literature review to identify risk and protective factors for parenting stress, measured by the Parenting Stress Index (PSI), among adolescent mothers. Guided by Belsky’s Determinants of Parenting Model (1984) and using Whittemore and Knafl’s (2005) five-stage review method, we searched CINAHL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE databases to identify 786 research articles. After quality appraisal, 26 articles were included. Risk and protective factors were categorized into themes within the context of Belsky’s framework, including maternal attributes (e.g. maternal self-efficacy), child characteristics (e.g. child temperament), and contextual influences (e.g. perceived social support). The new conceptual model maps risks, protective factors, and nuanced areas for parenting stress and can guide researchers and clinicians in approaches to prevent and reduce parenting stress among adolescent mothers.
The association between dietary acid load and odds of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A case-control study
Authors: Emamat Hadi , Farhadnejad Hossein , Poustchi Hossein , Teymoori Farshad , Bahrami Alireza , Hekmatdoost Azita
Published: March 2022

Background: Data on the association between dietary acid load and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are scarce and controversial. Aim: This study aimed to assess the association between dietary acid-base loads and odds of NAFLD. Methods: In the current study, 196 cases of NAFLD (proven by a gastroenterologist using Fibroscan) and 803 age-matched controls were enrolled from the same clinic. Dietary intakes of patients with NAFLD and controls without hepatic steatosis were evaluated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Dietary acid load was estimated using the validated potential renal acid load (PRAL) algorithm. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds of NAFLD across quintiles of PRAL. Results: The mean ± SD age of the study population (43% male) was 43.28 ± 14.02 years. The mean ± SD of PRAL was −1.90 ± 7.12 for all participants. After adjustment for all known confounders, subjects in the third quintile of PRAL (nearly with neutral PRAL) had a 54% lower odds of NAFLD compared with those in the lowest quintiles of the PRAL [(OR: 0.46; 95%CI: 0.24–0.89), (P = 0.021)]. However, the odds of NAFLD in the highest quintiles of PRAL was not different in comparison to the lowest quintiles (OR: 0.90; 95%CI: 0.41–1.57). Conclusion: In conclusion, our results have shown a modest U shaped relationship between PRAL and NAFLD. Further studies with acid-base biomarkers are needed to confirm the role of dietary acid load in the development of NAFLD and its potential mechanisms.
Alternatives to Laboratory Animals: Trends in Replacement and the Three Rs
Authors: Balls Michael
Published: March 2022

The significance of contributions in volumes 11–46 (1983 to 2018) of Alternatives to Laboratory Animals in relation to the reduction, refinement and replacement of animal experimentation in biomedical research and testing is reviewed and discussed by the journal’s former editor-in-chief, with particular emphasis on the development and production of the journal itself, FRAME, the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods and other organisations. The role of the journal in promoting the principles of humane research (as spelled out by William Russell and Rex Burch) and highlighting a range of important issues and focus topics is explored. These include: botulinum toxin potency testing; ethical issues; the use of human volunteers, and human cells and tissues; the use of non-human primates (especially chimpanzees) and dogs as laboratory animals; toxicity testing in relation to cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals; UK and EU politics and legislation; and test validation and invalidation. The review concludes by identifying some of the issues that still need to be discussed and some of the questions that urgently need to be addressed.
Social skills for accessing agricultural information among smallholder farmers in southwest Nigeria
Authors: Fidelugwuowo Ugonna B.
Published: March 2022

Access to agricultural information has continued to be a key important issue in the fight for food security. This is as a result of the role played by information to farmers in improving food availability. This study presents the level of social skills possessed by smallholder farmers in South West Nigeria and how it affects access to agricultural information. Mix method approach involving structured interview and focus group discussion was adopted. Result of the structured interview showed that the highest rated mean among social skills is team work (3.27), followed by conflict management (3.16) and the least is oral communication in foreign language (2.70) while focus group discussion revealed that the highest skill is communication in local languages. A logistic regression analysis showed that oral communications in vernacular, entrepreneurial skills influence on others, team work and ability to form network are the five social skills that are significant in predicting access to agricultural information. An important implication is that information should be packaged in local languages and the skills on foreign language among smallholder farmers should be improved upon to enhance access to agricultural information. It is recommended that more conscious effort should be made to improve the level of social skills among smallholder farmers.
The effects of early rehabilitation on functional exercise tolerance in decompensated heart failure patients: Results of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (ERIC-HF study)
Authors: Delgado Bruno , Novo André , Lopes Ivo , Rebelo Carina , Almeida Cecília , Pestana Sandra , Gomes Bárbara , Froelicher Erika , Klompstra Leonie
Published: March 2022

Objective

To analyze (1) the effect of an aerobic training program on functional exercise tolerance in decompensated heart failure (DHF) patients; (2) to assess the effects of an aerobic training program on functional independence; and (3) dyspnea during activities of daily living.

Design

A randomized controlled clinical trial with follow-up at discharge.

Settings

Eight hospitals. Recruitment took place between 9/ 2017 and 3/2019.

Group Assignments

Patients with DHF who were admitted to the hospital, were randomly assigned to usual rehabilitation care guideline recommended (control group) or aerobic training program (exercise group).

Main outcome

Functional exercise tolerance was measured with a 6-min walking test at discharge.

Results

In total 257 patients with DHF were included, with a mean age of 67 ± 11 years, 84% ( n = 205) had a reduced ejection fraction and the hospital stay was 16 ± 10 days. At discharge, patients in the intervention group walked further compared to the control group (278 ± 117m vs 219 ± 115m, p < 0.01) and this difference stayed significant after correcting for confounders ( p < 0.01). A significant difference was found favoring the exercise group in functional independence (96 ± 7 vs 93 ± 12, p = 0.02) and dyspnea associated to ADL (13 ± 5 vs 17 ± 7, p < 0.01) and these differences persisted after correcting for baseline values and confounders (functional independence p < 0.01; dyspnea associated with ADL p = 0.02).

Conclusion

The ERIC-HF program is safe, feasible, and effective in increasing functional exercise tolerance and functional independence in hospitalized patients admitted due to DHF.
Intraoperative application of yellow fluorescence in resection of intramedullary spinal canal ependymoma
Authors: Sun Zhenxing , Yuan Dan , Sun Yaxing , Guo Yi , Wang Guoqin , Zhang Peihai , Wang James , Shi Wei , Wang Guihuai
Published: March 2022

Background

Spinal ependymoma is the most common intramedullary tumor in adults. This study was performed to evaluate whether intraoperative yellow fluorescence use enhances our ability to identify the tumor margin and residual tumor tissue in intramedullary spinal cord ependymoma resection. We also evaluated patients’ clinical conditions at a 3-month follow-up.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 56 patients with intramedullary ependymoma. Thirty minutes before anesthesia, the patients received intravenous sodium fluorescein injections. Tumor resection was performed under two illumination modes, traditional white light and yellow fluorescence, and the residual tumor tissue was detected. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed 3 months postoperatively to observe the tumor resection outcome and residual tumor tissue. The McCormick spinal cord function grade was evaluated preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

The total resection rate was 100.0% in all patients. Nine patients had no significant fluorescence imaging. After 3 months, patients with a spinal function grade of I to IV showed significant spinal function improvement. Magnetic resonance imaging showed no residual tumor tissue or recurrence.

Conclusion

Sodium fluorescein aids in total excision of intramedullary spinal cord ependymoma and intraoperative residual tumor tissue identification. At the 3-month follow-up, the patients’ functional outcome in the fluorescein group was good.
Small tongue squamous cell carcinoma with neck metastasis at diagnosis: operative insights and surgical technique
Authors: Bruschini Roberto , Chu Francesco , Tagliabue Marta , Giugliano Gioacchino , Ansarin Mohssen
Published: March 2022

Background:

The treatment of tongue tumors includes different surgical procedures ranging from a simple mucosal resection to complex combined resection depending on the tumor stage and size. In 2019 we reported an international glossectomy classification with the purpose of standardizing all the different types of surgical procedures adopted for tongue cancer.

Methods:

The present communication aims at providing further insight into the glossectomy classification. More specifically, it is intended to better specify the indications to glossectomy type IIIA and B in selected tongue cancers, with positive cervical lymph nodes at the diagnosis.

Results and Conclusions:

Type IIIA glossectomy permits a high function sparing surgery in selected cases, with better postoperative functional outcomes. From an oncological perspective, it permits a radical surgery, avoiding postoperative radiation in the absence of extracapsular spread, multiple nodal metastases or T-N tract involvement.
Giraffe skin disease: Clinicopathologic characterization of cutaneous filariasis in the critically endangered Nubian giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis)
Authors: Han Sushan , Dadone Liza , Ferguson Sara , Bapodra-Villaverde Priya , Dennis Patricia M. , Aruho Robert , Sadar Miranda J. , Fennessy Julian , Driciru Margaret , Muneza Arthur B. , Brown Michael B. , Johnston Matthew , Lahmers Kevin
Published: March 2022

Giraffe skin disease (GSD) is an emerging disease of free-ranging giraffe recognized in the last 25 years in several species, including the critically endangered Nubian giraffe ( Giraffa camelopardalis camelopardalis) of Uganda. Identifying the cause of GSD and understanding its impact on health were deemed paramount to supporting these vulnerable populations. Sixty-four giraffes were immobilized in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda, from 2017 to 2019, and GSD lesions were opportunistically biopsied. Fifty-five giraffes (86%) had GSD lesions on the neck, axilla, chest, and cranial trunk. Lesions were categorized into early, intermediary, and dormant stages based on gross and histological characteristics. Early lesions were smaller, crusted nodules with eosinophilic and pyogranulomatous dermatitis and furunculosis. Intermediary lesions were thick plaques of proliferative and fissured hyperkeratosis and acanthosis with dense dermal granulation tissue and severe eosinophilic and granulomatous dermatitis. Lesions appeared to resolve to dormancy, with dormant lesions consisting of hairless plaques of hyperkeratosis with dermal scarring and residual inflammation. The periphery of early and intermediary lesions included follicular granulomas containing adult filarid nematodes, with myriad encysted microfilariae in the superficial dermis. Stage L3 larvae were common in early and intermediary lesions, and dormant lesions had remnant encysted microfilariae with no adult or stage L3 larvae. Nematodes were morphologically and genetically novel with close identity to Stephanofilaria spp. and Brugia malayi, which cause infectious filariasis. Identification of potential insect vectors, long-term monitoring of GSD lesions, and evaluating response to therapy is ongoing in the efforts to help conserve the Nubian giraffe.
Balancing equity-based goals with market-driven forces in land development: The case of density bonusing in Toronto
Authors: Biggar Jeffrey , Friendly Abigail
Published: March 2022

This article explores the connections between planning and land rent through a case study of density bonusing in Toronto, known as ‘Section 37’ – a form of land value capture. Density bonusing facilitates speculative bidding on future rents by private developers seeking ‘highest and best’ land uses – or efficient land uses – yet has implications related to equity when the unearned increment is extracted to recover value and invest in public goods. We situate land value capture within debates on the unearned income derived from land development in cities. We view the case of density bonusing through the lens of discretionary planning systems operating through flexible mechanisms. Specifically, we consider the direct role of planners towards balancing private interests with public goods in the face of shifting market and political contexts. The findings show that securing public goods from private land development through the unearned increment lacks consistency and predictability when the flexibility exercised by development actors drives planning decision-making. We conclude with a discussion on the implications for discretionary planning and land value capture in market-intensive, neoliberal environments.
Albedo Change Mechanism of Asphalt Concrete Surfaces
Authors: García Mainieri Javier J. , Sen Sushobhan , Roesler Jeffery , Al-Qadi Imad L.
Published: March 2022

Albedo, or average solar reflectance, is an important property affecting the development of temperature profiles within asphalt concrete (AC) pavements. It influences material durability and has an urban heat island effect. The albedo of new AC pavements ranges from 0.05 to 0.10 but rises rapidly to a stable value ranging from 0.15 to 0.25 within the first year of service. The mechanism of this rapid increase has typically been associated with oxidation of the asphalt binder, loosely referred to as “aging,” but has never been verified in the laboratory. To test this hypothesis, AC mixtures, prepared using PG 64-22 unmodified asphalt binder and aggregates, were subjected to accelerated aging using various techniques. The albedo of the AC mixtures was found to have statistically the same value of about 0.05 regardless of the extent and method of aging. An alternate hypothesis introduced is that the albedo increases as a result of abrasion loss of the surface binder, which has been tested in the laboratory. When this new abrasion procedure was applied to four field cores, the albedo increased in the same way observed in the field. This laboratory study confirmed that abrasion and loss of surface binder is the primary mechanism for the rapid increase in albedo of AC pavements.
How Does Platelet-Rich Plasma Compare Clinically to Other Therapies in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Costa Lauro Augusto Veloso , Lenza Mário , Irrgang James J. , Fu Freddie H. , Ferretti Mário
Published: March 2022

Background:

There has been an increase in interest in the use of biological therapies in orthopaedic conditions such as knee osteoarthritis. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is one of these therapies, but it still lacks consistent results.

Purpose:

To evaluate the effects (benefits and harms) of PRP intra-articular injection compared with other nonsurgical methods for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and quasi–randomized controlled trials; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Three electronic databases were searched to identify relevant studies published before January 2021. The primary outcomes were pain, function, and failure of treatment. Risks of bias of all trials were assessed using a Cochrane risk of bias tool. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation System was used to assess the quality of evidence of included studies.

Results:

A total of 40 studies with 3035 participants were included. Analysis of this review focused on comparing PRP with hyaluronic acid, corticosteroid, and saline, as we believe they are the most relevant comparisons with the most studies available. At 6-month follow-up, PRP was as effective as and in some studies more effective than other therapies regarding pain, function, and stiffness. However, current evidence is of low or very low quality and is based on trials with high risk of bias and great heterogeneity among them. No significant difference among treatments was found concerning major adverse events and treatment failure.

Conclusion:

Although studies suggest that PRP may be more effective than or at least as effective as other modalities of nonsurgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis in terms of pain, function, and adverse events, serious limitations and methodological flaws are considerable in the current literature. Therefore, the authors are not able to make recommendations for clinical practice regarding PRP for knee osteoarthritis.
Stretch-Induced Healing of Injured Muscles Is Associated With Myogenesis and Decreased Fibrosis
Authors: Hu Ching-Fang , Chen Carl Pai-Chu , Tsui Po-Hsiang , Chen Chiao-Nan , Hsu Chih-Chin
Published: March 2022

Background:

Alghouth therapeutic stretching exercise has been applied to accelerate the healing of injured skeletal muscles, mechanisms behind the mechanical stretch-induced muscle recovery remain unclear.

Purpose:

To examine stretch-associated antifibrotic and myogenic responses in injured muscles and to evaluate the feasibility of the ultrasonic Nakagami parametric index (NPI) in assessing muscle morphology during recovery.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Skeletal muscle fibrosis was induced in the right hind legs of 48 rats by making a posterior transverse incision in the gastrocnemius muscle; the left hind legs remained intact as a comparative normal reference. After surgery, the 48 rats were randomly divided into the stretch (S) and control (C) groups. The S group received stretching interventions on the injured hind leg from week 3 to week 7 after surgery, while the C group did not receive stretching throughout the study period. The muscle fibrosis percentage and the ultrasonic NPI were examined sequentially after surgery. Relative expressions of myogenesis-related proteins, including myoblast determination protein 1 (MyoD), myogenin, and embryonic myosin heavy chain (MHCemb), were also evaluated during the follow-up.

Results:

Mean fibrosis percentages in the injured hind leg were approximately 25% at week 3 in both groups, but they were significantly decreased by approximately 20% from week 4 to the end of the follow-up in the S group only (all, P < .05). Upon injury, the NPI values of injured hind legs in both groups dramatically dropped. Within the S group, stretching increased the NPI values of injured hind legs, which approached those of control hind legs at weeks 6 and 7. The highest MyoD, myogenin, and MHCemb levels were observed at week 6 in both groups. The NPI values corresponded to the MyoD expression in the S group during the follow-up.

Conclusion:

Stretching induced a decrease in muscle fibrosis and an increase in myogenesis in injured muscles. The NPI values correspond to the myogenesis process.

Clinical Relevance:

The NPI may be capable of continuously monitoring the injured skeletal muscle morphology during the healing process in clinical settings.
Brazilian Buttock Lift for the Weight-Loss Patient
Authors: Arshad Samar , Sin Zachary , Flores David , Satey Sean , Mowlavi Arian
Published: March 2022

Introduction:

Performing optimal gluteal augmentation using traditional methods in moderate to severe weight-loss patients poses a surgical challenge as such patients typically present with (1) significant skin redundancy, (2) soft tissues containing higher density of connective tissues, and (3) buttock ptosis.

Materials and Methods:

Excess skin redundancy and buttock check ptosis require consideration of supplemental excisional tucking to achieve optimal results. In addition, subcutaneous tissues that maintain more connective tissue pose difficulty with fat removal using traditional liposuction techniques. As such, we present a novel surgical technique to optimally augment and shape the buttock in patients who have undergone weight-loss.

Results:

This procedure uses a modified lateral thigh and buttock tuck excision not only to lift the buttock cheek complex but also to create a dermal fat flap that is transposed into the upper buttock pole to achieve upper buttock fullness. The remainder of the excised tissue undergoes novel ex-vivo liposuction, which allows for simultaneous repair of the created excision line while fat is being harvested.

Discussion:

We present a new Brazilian buttock lift (BBL) procedure for weight-loss patients using a novel modified lateral thigh and buttock tuck with a dermal fat flap as well as ex-vivo liposuction and fat transfer. The described ex-vivo liposuction technique provides several advantages that include (1) limiting operative time, (2) allowing for maximal fat removal while avoiding unnecessary trauma to the patient, and (3) providing improved quality of fat that is less blood tinged. The lateral thigh and buttock tuck with dermal fat flap is used to eliminate buttock ptosis and augment the upper buttock. The ex-vivo harvested fat to the middle and lower buttock to complete buttock augmentation for the Brazilian buttock lift in a seamless fashion.

Conclusions:

In summary, we present a novel Brazilian buttock lift technique to augment the buttock in weight-loss patients that maximizes both patient safety and efficacy.
Walking and talking with girls in their urban environments: A methodological meandering
Authors: Horgan Deirdre , Fernández Eluska , Kitching Karl
Published: March 2022

Young people spend a lot of time in their neighbourhood, yet little is known about the relationship between wellbeing, belonging and place from their own perspective. Our study sought to understand how young people navigate their neighbourhood and perceive various aspects of its health environment in its broadest sense. In this article we reflect on the walking methodology we used as part of a Participatory Photo Mapping (PPM) exercise with 11-year-old girls from a working-class school community who were participants in the PEACH Project. It was through walk-along interviews that students were able to tell us where events that matter to them happen; what these experiences look like (via photos that they took while we walked); and how these experiences unfold (via narratives and stories that they shared with us along the way). We reflect on the use of walking methodologies as both an emplaced approach and dynamic exercise that allowed us to access and generate visual and verbal data that privileged these young girls’ community knowledge. We conclude that this method facilitated the discussion of sensitive and political issues, as well as the emergence of unexpected data on child cultures, family and community life, belonging, wellbeing and futures.
Clinical Evaluation of Intraoral Suture Patterns Using Poliglecaprone 25 in Greyhound Dogs
Authors: Pegg Jane E. , Hoyer Naomi , Kelley Jennifer L. , Weir H. , Rawlinson Jennifer E.
Published: March 2022

To evaluate healing and complications of extraction sites closed with a simple interrupted pattern (SI) and a simple continuous (SC) suture pattern in a prospective randomized clinical trial. Greyhounds were selected from a rescue with a standardized environment and naturally occurring disease. Surgical extractions were performed (35 sites) and all mucogingival flaps were closed with 4–0 poliglecaprone 25 using either SI or SC randomly assigned by surgical site. Oral healing/dehiscence, suture inflammation, suture loss, accumulation of debris, presence/nature of discharge, necrotic tissue and adjacent contact ulceration were evaluated. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare categorical data and two-tail T tests used to compare continuous data. Results showed SC was faster to apply. No new dehiscence events were detected after Recheck 1. There was no significant difference for dehiscence scores between SI and SC. A trend was seen towards more major dehiscence in the SI group. This study concluded SC is an alternative to SI for closure of occlusal surfaces in the mouth. Mandibular canine tooth extraction sites were more likely to have a high dehiscence score than all other sites combined regardless of surgical technique.
Unacknowledged fatal error in expressions for shear strains in 3-D theory of elasticity in curvilinear co-ordinates and the consequences
Authors: Hart-Smith L. J.
Published: March 2022

An undetected fatal error has existed in the 3-D theory of elasticity in curvilinear co-ordinates since its formulation in the 19th century, whereby the linear expressions for shear strains as functions of the three orthogonal displacements fail to satisfy St. Venant’s compatibility equations. This error has, consequently, invalidated all thin-shell theories and finite-elements (other than those in Cartesian co-ordinates). The error is shown to have been caused by defining all six strain components mathematically to fit a single strain tensor as if they were independent quantities not constrained by any need for compatibility, instead of calculating what they really were. With six strain components (three direct and three shear) and six compatibility equations, this procedure was always scientifically unacceptable. It is further shown that the three real shear-strain components satisfying compatibility are fully defined derivative functions of the three direct strains. The correct shear-strain characterizations are established here by two totally independent methods, the first by analysis, and the second by revealing that St. Venant’s compatibility equations actually specify mathematically what the three shear strains must be. The article includes the correct specific strain components for thin cylindrical shells and exposes the bogus compatibility equations that were derived decades ago from the incompatible classical strain components, which concealed the existence of this error for cylindrical and spherical shells. This “fix,” universally accepted, whereby the compatibility equations were made to fit a set of independent strain components, defeats the purpose of compatibility requirements constraining the options for possible strains that cannot all be independent if they are to be compatible. It is recommended that the several related malpractices in the analysis and design of thin-shell structures be discontinued—and that new shell theories and new finite-elements and structural analysis computer codes be developed to replace them.
Chemical reaction and thermal characteristiecs of Maxwell nanofluid flow-through solar collector as a potential solar energy cooling application: A modified Buongiorno's model
Authors: Hussain Syed M. , Jamshed Wasim , Safdar Rabia , Shahzad Faisal , Mohd Nasir Nor Ain Azeany , Ullah Ikram
Published: March 2022

Solar collectors absorb solar radiation at the focus of solar concentrating systems as heat energy which is further transferred to nanofluid. Entropy creation in Maxwell nanofluid flow over an infinite horizontal surface of a porous media is the subject of the current investigation. A non-linear stretching surface then induces a parabolic trough solar collector (PTSC) flow. The thermal boundary layer is studied using a modified version of Buongiorno's Model. As a result, the PDEs, which encompass the physical aspects of the issue, must be transformed into solvable and boundary-constrained ODEs. By using a proper similarity transformation, boundary conditions and partial differential expressions are reduced to a set of non-linear ordinary differential equations. The Keller box method is used to find approximate solutions to ODEs. Tests are carried out on a nanofluid known as Copper-engine oil (Cu-EO). The Nusselt number was lowered, but the skin friction coefficient was increased as a result of a substantial magnetic parameter. In addition, Reynolds number and Brinkman number are used to measure fluctuations in viscosity, and, as a result, entropy variations throughout the domain are increased. Temperature decreased due to chemical reaction and Schmidt number, while thermal radiation increased skin friction and Nusselt. According to the current analysis, the heat collector has enhanced PTSC with Maxwell nanofluid.
Jaccoud-type lupus arthropathy
Authors: Santiago Mittermayer B
Published: March 2022

Background:

Jaccoud’s arthropathy (JA) is a condition characterized by joint deformities that have a “reducible” pattern, that is, they return to the normal appearance with a passive manoeuvre. JA was described in patients with rheumatic fever (RF) more than a century ago, and presently, the majority of the patients have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Purpose:

The aim of this review is to draw one attention to the epidemiology, pathogenesis, histopathology, clinical features, imaging, and management of JA in patients with SLE (Jaccoud-type lupus arthropathy).

Data collection:

The search strategy included articles retrieved from PubMed utilizing the terms “lupus arthropathy”, “lupus deforming arthropathy”, “lupus hand”, “lupus foot”, “chronic postrheumatic arthropathy”, “Jaccoud’s” and “Jaccoud” from 1950 until March 2021, with no language restriction.

Results:

The prevalence of Jaccoud-type arthropathy in SLE is approximately 5%. The aetiopathogenic mechanisms of JA are not yet known. The most common joint deformities of JA, are ulnar deviation, swan neck, and the “z” of the thumb. Unfortunately, none of the proposed classification criteria for JA have been validated so far. Characteristically, there is no bone erosion on plain radiographs of the joints, but more sensitive imaging methods, magnetic resonance imaging or high-performance ultrasound may reveal small bone erosions. There is no preventive measure against JA development, specific clinical treatment or convincing surgical approach for correcting the deformities.

Conclusion:

As daily activities and quality of life are compromised in patients with JA, other studies are urgently needed in this area.
The Endoplasmic Reticulum-Stressed Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Induced Exosomal miR-424-5p Inhibits Angiogenesis and Migration of Humanumbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Through LAMC1-Mediated Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Zeyu , Jiao Pengfei , Zhong Yi , Ji Huan , Zhang Yaqin , Song Haiyang , Du Hongming , Ding Xu , Wu Heming
Published: March 2022

Under endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, tumor plays multifaceted roles in endothelial cell dysfunction through secreting exosomal miRNAs. However, for the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), it is still unclear about the impact of ER-stressed HNSCC cell derived exosomes on vascular endothelial cells. To address this gap, herein, systemic research was conducted including isolation and characterization of ER-stressed HNSCC cell (HN4 cell line as an in vitro model) derived exosomes, identification of regulatory exosomal miRNAs, target exploration and downstream signaling pathway investigation of exosomal miRNAs in human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC). ER-stressed HN4 cell-derived exosomes inhibited angiogenesis and migration of HUVEC cells in vitro. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that miR-424-5p was highly upregulated in ER-stressed HN4 cell-derived exosomes. Through matrigel tube formation and transwell assays of HUVEC cells, miR-424-5p displayed great capabilities on inhibiting angiogenesis and migration. Finally, based on western blot and luciferase reporter, it was demonstrated that LAMC1 is the target of miR-424-5p which could inhibit the angiogenesis and migration of HUVEC cells by repressing the LAMC1-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. ER-stressed HNSCC cell-induced exosomal miR-424-5p inhibits angiogenesis and migration of HUVEC cells through LAMC1-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This study offers a new insight for understanding the complicated mechanism behind ER-stress induced anti-angiogenesis of HNSCC.
Taiwan’s Energy (In) Security: Challenges to Growth and Development
Authors: Aggarwal Prachi
Published: March 2022

Taiwan, especially after the ‘Taiwan miracle’ has had a meteoric rise, faster than any of its big neighbors, and is now considered among one of the most developed regions of the world. Yet not all is sheen and glory when the costs of development are added especially in energy terms and more so when 99 percent of it is imported from abroad. Taiwan lacks in almost all forms of energy apart from a smattering of coal and gas and is almost entirely dependent on imports for its energy needs. Also, Taiwan imports from the world’s most vulnerable regions. This leaves it in a precarious position as Taiwan’s growth rates are not only unsustainable but also threaten to collapse if it continues its dependence on imports. This naturally attracts it toward the renewable energy sector, especially nuclear energy. However, given the fact that the entire world is proceeding toward a ‘clean technology’ establishment, would Taiwan be able to race against the bigwigs, or will its energy scarcity bring it closer to its impending economic penury shall be discussed here.
Prevalence and Factors Associated With Men’s Perpetration of Intimate Partner Violence in South Tarawa, Kiribati
Authors: Miedema Stephanie Spaid , Warner Xian , Leung Loksee , Wilson Mauea , Fulu Emma
Published: March 2022

In the Republic of Kiribati, two-thirds of women report experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) during their lifetime. Less is known about men’s perpetration of IPV, or associated risk factors, in this high-prevalence setting. We conducted a cross-sectional study with 429 currently partnered men aged 15 to 49 in South Tarawa, Kiribati, to estimate the prevalence of, and risk factors associated with, currently married men’s perpetration of physical and sexual IPV against female partners. Two-thirds (63%) of currently partnered men reported past year physical and/or sexual IPV. Modifiable risk factors associated with men’s perpetration of physical and/or sexual IPV included child physical abuse (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.31), gender inequitable attitudes (aOR: 1.12), and antisocial behaviors, including gang involvement (aOR: 3.36) and involvement in fights with weapons (aOR: 3.54). Intimate partner violence prevention approaches in Kiribati should prioritize efforts to prevent child maltreatment, promote gender equitable norms and practices, and reduce community violence.
The Relationships Among Health Literacy, Illness Perception, and Diabetes Self-Care in Korean-Speaking Immigrants With Diabetes
Authors: Park Suwon , Seo Yaewon
Published: March 2022

Diabetes self-care is explained as an illness-related coping behavior. Health literacy is an important predictor in self-care behaviors. However, little is known about their association with illness perception in Korean immigrants with diabetes. This study aimed to examine the relationships among health literacy, illness perception, and diabetes self-care in Korean-speaking immigrants with diabetes. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020. A convenience sample of 52 Korean adults with diabetes in Dallas-Fort Worth areas completed a survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 25) with statistical significance at α < .05. The mean of health literacy was high (11.1, SD = 1.1, ranges 0–12). There were no statistically significant associations between health literacy, illness perception, and diabetes self-care. Language barriers are considered a literacy issue, but health literacy and limited English proficiency must be approached differently by health care providers.
The Machiavellian Organization: A Multilevel Model to Understand Decision Making in Organizations
Authors: Matthews Michael J. , Kelemen Thomas K. , Matthews Samuel H. , Matthews Jacob M.
Published: March 2022

We introduce a three-phase model of decision-making as examined through a Machiavellian lens. Distinct from previous research, we broaden our research premise from Machiavellianism exhibited by an individual to Machiavellianism at the organizational level. We examine this type of organization beginning with an emphasis on organizational values and practices, which we define as climate emergence. After establishing the process of climate emergence, we examine employee sensemaking within a Machiavellian climate by drawing on Rest's decision-making model. Our research culminates with an exploration of resultant employee behaviors while emphasizing the moderating role of dispositional Machiavellianism. We conclude with a discussion centered on how this perspective fits within recent research and its impact on organizational practices.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Toward Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women Attending Health Facilities in Central Ethiopia
Authors: Gebisa Tulu , Bala Elias Teferi , Deriba Berhanu Senbeta
Published: March 2022

Background

In Ethiopia, cervical cancer ranked as the second leading cause of female cancer and also stands as the most common cancer among women aged from 15 to 44 years old. Hence, this study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice toward cervical cancer screening among women attending health facilities in central Ethiopia.

Methods

Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 study participants. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The collected data were entered into EPI data 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Binary and multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice of cervical cancer screening. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI and a P-value < .05 were used to declare statistical significance.

Results

Half, 50.7% of study participants had good knowledge. Less than half, 46.1% had a positive attitude toward cervical cancer screening. Only 6.3% of women have been screened for cervical cancer. Diploma and above education (AOR: 2.22, 95% CI: 1.32, 6.157), no idea about cervical cancer curable at an early stage (AOR: 6.23, 95% CI: 6.23 (2.77, 15.13) were significantly associated with knowledge of cervical cancer screening. Diploma and above education (AOR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.74) and multiple sexual partners (AOR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.62) were factors associated with a negative attitude toward cervical cancer screening. Positive attitude about cervical cancer screening (AOR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.91, 6.20) was significantly associated with the practice of being screened.

Conclusions

Cervical cancer screening knowledge and attitudes were moderate, but practice was low. Educational status, considering cervical cancer is not curable at an early stage and not having an idea about its curability at an early stage, was significantly associated with knowledge of cervical cancer screening. Sexual partner status and educational status showed significant association with an attitude toward cervical cancer screening and having a positive attitude toward cervical cancer screening were significantly associated with the practice of cervical cancer screening. Health professionals need to disseminate cervical cancer screening information and offer cervical cancer treatment during health-care appointments.