bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of a school-network intervention using Reduce, Reuse and Recycle in Thailand
Authors: Banchonhattakit Pannee , Inmuong Uraiwan , Duangsong Rujira , Phimha Surachai , Prachaiboon Tiwakorn , Padchasuwan Natnapa Heebkaew
Published: February 2022

Background:

Human behaviour contributes in a major way to global warming (GW), significantly adding to ill-health and disease. As a result, efforts should be made to enlist the support of school-aged children in preventive behaviour.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to identify the effects of a school-network intervention using Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (3Rs) to improve primary students’ GW preventive behaviour.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental pre-post and control group study was conducted. The experimental group ( n = 359) and the comparison group ( n = 331) comprising fifth and sixth grade primary students. School network members (SNMs), who included school principals, teachers, parents and community leaders, worked with the pupils for 4 months using the 3Rs approach. Data were collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire measuring knowledge, attitudes and practices. A paired t-test and an independent t-test were used to analyse the data. In-depth interviews and focus groups took place with SNMs to assess the perceived effectiveness of the 3Rs intervention.

Results:

Significant post-intervention improvements in students’ knowledge, attitudes and practice were found in the experimental group. The 3Rs programme received significant support from SNMs. Green living sub-projects including waste product recycling, planting, school energy conservation and changes in school lunch programmes to include more green food, were established by children.

Conclusions:

The 3Rs model, complemented by school networking, was perceived to have had a positive impact on students’ GW prevention activities.
Mental and social burden of COVID-19 on the Iraqi people
Authors: Lafta Riyadh K , Mawlood Nagham A
Published: February 2022

Background:

COVID-19 pandemic has affected all crucial aspects of daily life, including; food security, education, gender relation, mental health, and environmental air pollution, in addition to the impact of the lockdown that had far-reaching effects in different strata of life.

Aims:

To study the impact of COVID-19 on people with respect to their mental and social suffering and consequences.

Methods:

This cross sectional study was conducted during the period from November 2020 through August 2021. A sample of 1,000 attendants to four teaching hospitals and eight PHCCs, was collected. The mental and social sequels of COVID-19 were assessed for all participants whether previously infected or not.

Results:

Out of the total sample (1,000), 389 had a history of infection with COVID-19. The main mental symptoms reported were depression (67.8%), and anxiety (46.9%), males and females equally reported symptoms of anxiety, while depressive symptoms were reported more among females (59.9%), Fear and worries of the participants about their health and their families’ was the main reason for mental symptoms (94.7%).

Conclusions:

Symptoms of depression and anxiety in time of COVID-19 are prevalent. Suspending educational activities was the most social burden that affect people while increase the price of food and cessation of work were the main causes of economic burden.
Engaging Sub-Saharan African Australian Residents in Health Research: Lessons and Suggestions for Future Studies
Authors: Addo Isaac Yeboah
Published: February 2022

The Sub-Saharan African-born community in Australia is significantly underrepresented in health research, partly, due to challenges associated with collecting their primary data. Based on experience from a mixed-method study comprising 24 in-depth interviews and a survey of 253 participants in the community, this communication paper highlights a number of ‘high-level’ practical issues that might be encountered when collecting primary data from the community and provides suggestions for future studies. Included in this paper is a brief discussion of important lessons from the fieldwork that are critical for achieving successful data collection from the community. The lessons include difficulty of proving external validity for samples drawn from the community, difficulty of developing a reliable sampling frame, challenges in selecting appropriate support organisations, risk of low response to surveys and language barrier. The study concludes that understanding the ethnic diversities in this community and engaging appropriate support organisations are critical to achieving a successful data collection experience.
The Importance of UN Security Council Resolutions in Peacekeeping Operations*
Authors: Benson Michelle , Tucker Colin
Published: February 2022

The influence of United Nations (UN) peacekeeping in civil conflict has received important consideration in a growing body of literature. Little research, however, has focused on UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and their ability to determine and affect peacekeeping. New data on UNSC resolutions coded to UCDP/PRIO internal conflicts with peacekeeping operations (PKOs) is presented here. The data illustrate that resolutions vary importantly across conflicts and missions regarding their timing, sentiment toward rebel and government factions, level of action, mandates, authorized force levels, and substantive policies. Through a series of negative-binomial regressions using conflict-month replication data, we demonstrate that PKOs with both higher troops levels and a higher intensity of resolutions that condemn rebel actors experience a significant reduction one-sided rebel violence against civilians. In short, UNSC resolutions differ importantly before and during peacekeeping operations and may have an important impact on PKO effectiveness in civil conflict.
Implementation of a COVID-19 Infection Control Plan in a Large Urban Jail System
Authors: Qureshi Nazia , Cardenas Charles , Tran Ngoc Dung , Henderson Sean O.
Published: February 2022

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, the number of people confined in correctional facilities on a single day numbered 1.8 million. Incarcerated people are at an increased risk of contracting and spreading SARS-CoV-2. Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on case recognition, management, isolation, and contact tracing are particularly challenging in jails because of the high turnover of incarcerated people. Beginning in late February 2020, the Department of Correctional Health Services in the Los Angeles County Jail system implemented a multipronged COVID-19 mitigation plan that was progressively amended in accordance with local and national recommendations. This plan entailed the creation of housing for people under investigation, SARS-CoV-2 screening upon entry, a mass-testing program, and identification and monitoring of medically vulnerable people. After the identification of the first laboratory-confirmed case on March 29, 2020, predictive models were generated to visualize potential disease spread and gain support for mitigation strategy planning, which forecasted approximately 3300-4600 cumulative cases during a 278-day period. From March 7 through December 31, 2020, the percentage positivity among unique people tested for SARS-CoV-2 was 11.6% (3933 of 33 921 tested). Among those screened at intake, the percentage positivity was 2.0% (502 of 25 702 tested). The ethnic distribution among people with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result was largely representative of the overall jail population, and most people were asymptomatic. A sustainable, multifaceted mitigation plan that relies on collaboration among medical, custodial, and local public health personnel is essential for limiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection in correctional facilities.
The Communist Party Case Revisited: Constitutional Review in the 2020 Term
Authors: Crawford Lisa B
Published: February 2022

This article examines the 2020 decisions of the High Court on constitutional law through the lens of the Communist Party Case, taking the 70th anniversary of that decision as an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing utility and efficacy of the constitutional principles it espoused. It focuses on the way in which constitutional meaning may be informed by ordinary legislation, the common law and the rich backdrop of principles and values against which the Constitution was drafted — particularly, the rule of law. In doing so, the article highlights enduring questions about the scope of the High Court’s power to remedy those deficiencies in the Constitution that reveal themselves over time.
Evaluation of the Auditory System in Autistic Children Using Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions and a Contralateral Suppression Test
Authors: Aslan Eda , Guzel Isil , Caypinar Basak , Samanci Baver , Oysu Cagatay
Published: February 2022

In this study, we evaluated the cochlea, medial olivocochlear system, and brainstem function in autistic children using evoked otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) and a noninvasive contralateral suppression (CLS) test. In total, we included 21 autistic children with normal hearing (study group) and 11 healthy children (control group). Transient-evoked OAEs (TEOAEs) and CLS of TEOAE were evaluated in the left and right ears of all patients. In a silent room, spontaneous, transient, and dP ILO292 were evaluated. The mean age of the study and control group was 9.1 years (range: 6-13 and 6-12 years, respectively). For the study group, there was no statistically significant difference between the OAE and CLS values of the right ear ( P > .05). However, for the left ears, OAE values were statistically significantly higher than the CLS values ( P < .05). In the control group, the OAE values of both ears were statistically significantly higher than the CLS values ( P < .05). In autistic children with normal hearing, the medial olivocochlear system functions more effectively in the right ear than the left ear. Asymmetry between the ears is likely responsible for the peripheral auditory lateralization and independence in auditory function between the left and right ears.
Existential suffering in the day to day lives of those living with palliative care needs arising from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A systematic integrative literature review
Authors: Bolton Louise Elizabeth , Seymour Jane , Gardiner Clare
Published: February 2022

Background:

The impact of living with palliative care needs arising from COPD disrupts an individual’s existential situation. However, no comprehensive synthesis of existing research has been published to determine the presentation and impact of existential suffering.

Aim:

To provide a synthesis of existing evidence on existential suffering for those living with palliative care needs arising from COPD.

Design:

This is an integrative review paper, undertaken using the methodological approach developed by Soares and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Data analysis was undertaking using an integrated convergent synthesis approach.

Data sources:

Nine electronic databases were searched from April 2019 to December 2019. A second search was undertaken in January 2021 to identify recently published papers meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. No date restrictions were imposed. Only papers published in the English Language were considered for inclusion. Empirical research papers employing qualitative and/or quantitative methodologies and systematic literature reviews were included. Articles were accepted for inclusion if they discussed any component of existential suffering when living with COPD and palliative care needs.

Results:

Thirty-five papers were included within this review comprising of seven systematic reviews, 10 quantitative studies and 18 qualitative studies. The following themes relating to existential suffering were found: Liminality, Lamented Life, Loss of Personal Liberty, Life meaning and Existential isolation. The absence of life meaning, and purpose was of most importance to participants.

Conclusions:

This review suggests existential suffering is present and of significant impact within the daily lives of those living with palliative care needs arising from COPD. The absence of life meaning has the most significant impact. Further research is required to understand the essential components of an intervention to address existential suffering for this patient group, to ensure holistic palliative care delivery.
Diagnostic values of MRI indexes for polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Wang Shaojuan , Zhang Meimei , Hu Xuyu , Duan Na , Chen Xiao , Yin Yanyun , Wang Zhongqiu
Published: February 2022

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a useful non-invasive modality for observation of ovarian morphologic characteristics. Few studies have focused on the value of MRI-derived indexes in reproductive-aged women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic value of MRI in women with PCOS.

Material and Methods

This prospective case-control study included 85 women with PCOS and 50 controls who underwent pelvic MRI during 2017–2019. Ovarian volume (OV), follicle count (FC; counts of follicles sizing 2–3, 4–6, 7–9, 2–9 mm, respectively), follicular peripheral distribution, absence of a dominant follicle and stromal to total area ratio (S:A) were determined with MRI. The diagnostic value (sensitivity, specificity, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC]) of OV, FC2–9, and follicular peripheral distribution for PCOS were assessed.

Results

The AUCs were 0.94 for OV, 0.96 for FC2–9, and 0.78 for follicular peripheral distribution. The optimal threshold to detect PCOS was 8.5 mL for OV (sensitivity 78%; specificity 96%) and 26 for FC2–9 (sensitivity 85%; specificity 98%). Sensitivity and specificity were 73% and 82% for follicular peripheral distribution, respectively. Reproducibility was perfect for OV (ICC = 0.96) and absence of a dominant follicle (k = 0.85), substantial for FC2–9 (ICC = 0.79) and S:A (ICC = 0.69), and moderate for follicular peripheral distribution (k = 0.56).

Conclusion

Detected by MRI, OV >8.5 mL or FC2–9 >26 are accurate for diagnosing PCOS.
Multiple occult intracranial diseases diverted diagnosis of glioma in a patient
Authors: Li Xin Long , Zhan Ao , Yue Lin , Zhang Xiaoli , Wei Zheng Hong
Published: February 2022

Dizziness is an atypical symptom of the nervous system. Many neurological disorders can manifest as dizziness. When patients have multiple neurological disorders, the most obvious diagnosis is often considered, and diseases that are potentially more deadly are overlooked. Here, we report the case of a man aged in his early 50s with dizziness who was found to have four neurological disorders. A series of treatments failed to resolve the condition. A review of this case highlights that when a patient’s symptoms are not typical, a comprehensive examination and evaluation is required to determine the etiology, and imaging may reveal further minor problems.
Highly suspected valsartan-induced chronic erythema nodosum migrans in a patient with hypertension: a case report
Authors: Liu Yong , Guan Yanmin , Liu Hui , Bian Queqiao
Published: February 2022

Erythema nodosum migrans (ENM) is usually considered as a rare clinical variant of erythema nodosum and is characterized by unilateral, migratory, relatively painless, nodular lesions. ENM cases are rarely reported and most cases are idiopathic. Therefore, the appropriate treatment modality of ENM is unknown. We report a 72-year-old woman with highly suspected valsartan-induced ENM. She experienced painful, infiltrated, centrifugally spreading, slightly morpheaform, erythematous plaques on the flexor side of her left leg. Her symptoms were relieved after discontinuation of valsartan and temporary administration of oral prednisone once daily (20 mg for the first 7 days and 10 mg for the next 7 days).
Applying Association Rules Mining to Investigate Pedestrian Fatal and Injury Crash Patterns Under Different Lighting Conditions
Authors: Hossain Ahmed , Sun Xiaoduan , Thapa Raju , Codjoe Julius
Published: February 2022

The pattern of pedestrian crashes varies greatly depending on lighting circumstances, emphasizing the need to examine pedestrian crashes in various lighting conditions. Using Louisiana pedestrian fatal and injury crash data (2010–2019), this study applied Association Rules Mining (ARM) to identify the hidden pattern of crash risk factors according to three different lighting conditions (daylight, dark-with-streetlight, and dark-no-streetlight). Based on the generated rules, the results show that daylight pedestrian crashes are associated with children (<15 years), senior pedestrians (>64 years), older drivers (>64 years), and other driving behaviors such as “failure to yield,”“inattentive/distracted,”“illness/fatigue/asleep.” Additionally, young drivers (15–24 years) are involved in severe pedestrian crashes in daylight conditions. This study also found pedestrian alcohol/drug involvement as the most frequent item in the dark-with-streetlight condition. This crash type is particularly associated with pedestrian action (crossing intersection/midblock), driver age (55–64 years), speed limit (30–35 mph), and specific area type (business with mixed residential area). Fatal pedestrian crashes are found to be associated with roadways with high speed limits (>50 mph) during the dark without streetlight condition. Some other risk factors linked with “high speed limit” related crashes are pedestrians walking with/against the traffic, presence of pedestrian dark clothing, and pedestrian alcohol/drug involvement. The research findings are expected to provide an improved understanding of the underlying relationships between pedestrian crash risk factors and specific lighting conditions. Highway safety experts can utilize these findings to conduct a decision-making process for selecting effective countermeasures to reduce pedestrian crashes strategically.
Latent Profiles of Social Reactions to Sexual Assault Disclosure Among Undergraduate Women
Authors: Salim Selime R. , Eshelman Lee R. , Bhuptani Prachi H. , Messman Terri L.
Published: February 2022

The types of social reactions that victims receive when they disclose experiences of sexual assault are important for post-trauma recovery. Using a person-centered analytic approach, we identified latent profiles based upon the nature of two types of negative (turning against and unsupportive acknowledgment) and two types of positive (emotional support and informational/tangible aid) reactions received by 300 undergraduate women who disclosed sexual assault. Analyses identified four latent profiles characterized by (a) moderate emotional support/low negative reactions, (b) moderate emotional support/moderate negative reactions, (c) high positive/some unsupportive acknowledgment reactions, and (d) moderate positive/high negative reactions. Differences between the profiles in sexual assault acknowledgment, self- and perpetrator-blame, and some assault-related characteristics (victim injury but not victim or perpetrator intoxication) were identified. Group comparisons revealed that the two profiles characterized by greater negative reactions reported greater posttraumatic stress, whereas the profile characterized by moderate support/moderate negative reactions reported greater depression. No differences were identified for hazardous alcohol use. Findings highlight the importance of addressing negative reactions to sexual assault disclosure as potential barriers to recovery. Colleges may benefit from programming targeted at disclosure recipients as part of violence prevention efforts. A broader societal shift is also imperative to eliminate stigmatization of victims. Additional online materials for this article are available on PWQ’s website at: http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/03616843211038924 .
A Systematic Review of Long-term Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Arthroscopic and Open/Mini-open Rotator Cuff Repairs
Authors: Plachel Fabian , Jo Olivia Imkyeong , Rüttershoff Katja , Andronic Octavian , Ernstbrunner Lukas
Published: February 2022

Background:

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (aRCR) has shown similar midterm functional results and retear rates as open/mini-open rotator cuff repair (oRCR). A pooled analysis of long-term results of both techniques is yet missing.

Purpose:

To evaluate the long-term results of aRCR and oRCR for full-thickness rotator cuff tears.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The systematic review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The CENTRAL (Cochrane), MEDLINE (PubMed), and Embase databases were searched for studies that reported on long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of full-thickness aRCR and oRCR with a minimum follow-up of 9 years.

Results:

Eleven studies were included: 5 studies on aRCR and 6 studies on oRCR. Studies were based on 550 shoulders (539 patients) with a mean patient age of 56.3 years (range, 25-77). After a mean follow-up of 14.0 years (range, 9-20), the mean preoperative absolute Constant score (CS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder score were significantly improved postoperatively (CS, 44 to 78 points; ASES, 52% to 91%; both comparisons, P < .001). The retear rate was 41% (141 of 342 shoulders) without a significant difference between groups (aRCR, 43%; oRCR, 39%) ( P = .364). A retear was associated with significantly reduced CS as compared with a healed repair ( P = .004). No significant differences were found in postoperative functional scores, complications, and retear rates after failed cuff repairs between the arthroscopic and open/mini-open repair groups.

Conclusion:

Pooled analysis of arthroscopic and open rotator cuff repairs demonstrated sustained improvement in long-term shoulder scores and pain with a substantial retear rate in both groups, which was associated with inferior shoulder function. There were no significant differences in long-term functional outcomes, retear rates, and complications. Both surgical techniques may be used on the basis of factors such as patient or surgeon preference and cost. Further studies using a more robust randomized controlled trial or larger cohort design are recommended to ascertain whether one surgical repair technique is superior to the other.

Registration:

CRD42020180448 (PROSPERO).
Vancomycin Soaking Is Highly Cost-Effective in Primary ACLR Infection Prevention: A Cost-Effectiveness Study
Authors: Truong Anthony P. , Pérez-Prieto Daniel , Byrnes Joshua , Monllau Joan C. , Vertullo Christopher J.
Published: February 2022

Background:

Although presoaking grafts in vancomycin has been demonstrated to be effective in observational studies for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) infection prevention, the economic benefit of the technique is uncertain.

Purpose:

To 1) determine the cost-effectiveness of vancomycin presoaking during primary ACLR to prevent postoperative joint infections and 2) to establish the break-even cost-effectiveness threshold of the technique and determine its cost-effectiveness across various international health care settings.

Study Design:

Economic and decision analysis; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A Markov model was used to determine cost-effectiveness and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of additional vancomycin presoaking compared with intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis alone. A repeated search of the PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, using the same criteria as a recent meta-analysis, was completed. A repeated meta-analysis of 9 cohort studies (level 3 evidence) was completed to determine the odds ratio of infection with vancomycin presoaking compared with intravenous antibiotics alone. Estimated costs of the vancomycin technique, treatment of infection, and further surgery were sourced from local hospitals and literature. Transitional probabilities for further surgery, including revision reconstruction and primary arthroplasty, were obtained from the literature. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses and a 1-way sensitivity analysis were performed to evaluate the ACLR infection rate break-even threshold for which the vancomycin technique would be no longer cost-effective.

Results:

The vancomycin soaking technique provides expected cost savings of $660 (USA), A$581 (Australia), and €226 (Spain) per patient. There was an improvement in the quality-adjusted life-years of 0.007 compared with intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis alone (4.297 vs 4.290). If the infection rate is below 0.014% with intravenous antibiotics alone, the vancomycin wrap would no longer be cost-effective.

Conclusion:

The vancomycin presoaking technique is a highly cost-effective method to prevent postoperative septic arthritis after primary ACLR.
Exosomes Derived From Human Urine–Derived Stem Cells Overexpressing miR-140-5p Alleviate Knee Osteoarthritis Through Downregulation of VEGFA in a Rat Model
Authors: Liu Yuan , Zeng Yi , Si Hai-Bo , Tang Li , Xie Hui-Qi , Shen Bin
Published: February 2022

Background:

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the most common chronic musculoskeletal disorders worldwide, for which exosomes derived from stem cells may provide an effective treatment.

Purpose:

To assess the effect of exosomes derived from human urine–derived stem cells (hUSCs) overexpressing miR-140-5p (miR means microRNA) on KOA in an in vitro interleukin 1β (IL-1β)–induced osteoarthritis (OA) model and an in vivo rat KOA model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Exosomes derived from hUSCs (hUSC-Exos) were isolated and validated. The hUSCs were transfected with miR-140s using lentivirus, and exosomes secreted from such cells (hUSC-140-Exos) were collected. The roles of hUSC-Exos and hUSC-140-Exos in protecting chondrocytes against IL-1β treatment were compared by analyzing the proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) in chondrocytes. After vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) was identified as a target of miR-140, the mechanism by which VEGFA can mediate the beneficial effect of miR-140 on OA was investigated using small interfering RNA transfection or chemical drugs. The expression of VEGFA in cartilage and synovial fluid from patients with KOA was measured and compared with that of healthy controls. Surgery for anterior cruciate ligament transection and destabilization of the medial meniscus were performed on the knee joints of Sprague-Dawley rats to establish an animal model of OA, and intra-articular (IA) injection of hUSC-Exos or hUSC-140-Exos was conducted at 4 to 8 weeks after the surgery. Cartilage regeneration and subchondral bone remodeling were evaluated through histological staining and micro–computed tomography analysis.

Results:

Proliferation and migration ability were enhanced and apoptosis was inhibited in chondrocytes treated with IL-1β via hUSC-Exos, with the side effect of decreased ECM secretion. hUSC-140-Exos not only retained the advantages of hUSC-Exos but also increased the secretion of ECM by targeting VEGFA, including collagen II and aggrecan. Increased expression of VEGFA during the progression of KOA was also confirmed in cartilage and synovial fluid samples obtained from patients with OA. In the rat OA model, IA injection of hUSC-140-Exos enhanced cartilage regeneration and subchondral bone remodeling.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrated the superiority of hUSC-Exos overexpressing miR-140-5p for treating OA compared with the hUSC-Exos. The effect of hUSC-140-Exos for suppressing the progression of KOA is in part mediated by VEGFA.

Clinical Relevance:

Exosomes derived from stem cells may provide a promising treatment for KOA, and our study can advance the related basic research.
Outcomes of a complementary and alternative medicine based on vitamins, herbal products, and amino acid as a first line treatment in idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome in men and women without bladder outlet obstruction
Authors: Morselli Simone , Gemma Luca , Liaci Andrea , Campi Riccardo , Serni Sergio , Li Marzi Vincenzo
Published: February 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) called Kubiker (Naturmed, Montegranaro, FM, Italy), consisting of vitamins (C and D), herbal products (cucurbita maxima, capsicum annum, polygonum cuspidatum), and amino acid L-Glutamine, as first line treatment of (OAB)

Materials and methods:

According to institutional protocols, data on patients addressing to a tertiary referral centre for OAB symptoms were recorded. OAB was evaluated through validated questionnaires including ICIQ-SF, USS, and OAB-q-SF. Patients with previous antimuscarinic or β3 agonist treatment, neurological disease or pathologies which may mimic OAB, including infections, were excluded. Only unobstructed patients were considered and were given CAM twice daily for 12 weeks. After treatment, symptoms were re-evaluated repeating previous questionnaires and PGI-I was given to evaluate perceived improvement.

Results:

A total of 41 patients were evaluated and 35 respected inclusion criteria and were enrolled. All subjects had a full compliance and adherence with CAM medication intake. The median patient’s age was 65 (56–73). Male were 8 (22.9%) while females were 27 (77.1%). Median baseline OAB-q SF and ICIQ-SF scores were 18 (15–25) and 9 (6–13), respectively. After treatment, 85.7% patients had a clinical benefit, with a significant reduction of OAB symptoms, also according to USS ( p < 0.01). The median OAB-q SF and ICIQ-SF scores were 10 (7–15) and 6 (0–8) ( p < 0.01). CAM was successful with an improvement in subjective patient’s satisfaction, with a median PGI-I score of 2 (1–3). Patients (men and women) who still had UUI after 3 months CAM medication were eight (22.8%), and among them, those who did not refer any therapeutic benefit were five (14.3%)

Conclusions:

According to our study, CAM may be useful medication for a first line treatment of uncomplicated idiopathic OAB cases, providing a nonnegligible effects on symptoms. However, further studies are mandatory to draw definitive conclusions
LGBTQ@NASA and Beyond: Work Structure and Workplace Inequality among LGBTQ STEM Professionals
Authors: Cech Erin A. , Waidzunas Tom
Published: February 2022

Scholars are just beginning to understand how organizational processes shape LGBTQ workplace inequality. Using multimethod data from STEM professionals, this article examines how one such factor—the way work tasks are structured within organizations—may impact LGBTQ workers’ experiences of marginalization and devaluation. Through interviews with STEM professionals at two NASA space flight centers with different work structures, we find that LGBTQ professionals at the NASA center where work is organized in dynamic project-based teams experienced less inclusive and respectful interactions with colleagues, in part because they had to rapidly establish credibility and develop new status management strategies each time they were shuffled into new teams. The stability of the traditional unit-based structure at the other NASA center, by contrast, allowed LGBTQ professionals time to navigate status management and build trust. This stability also facilitated LGBTQ community building. Analysis of survey data of over 14,000 US STEM professionals (594 who identify as LGBTQ) corroborates this work structure pattern: LGBTQ professionals across STEM disciplines and employment sectors working in dynamic project-based teams were more likely to report interpersonal marginalization and devaluation than LGBTQ professionals who worked in traditional unit-based structures. These findings highlight work structure as an important mechanism of LGBTQ inequality that demands further investigation.
How Do Political Parties Capture New Democracies? Hungary and North Macedonia in Comparison
Authors: Auerbach Kiran Rose , Kartner Jennifer
Published: February 2022

Recent democratic backsliding in Eastern Europe challenges the optimism of two decades of scholarship on post-communist democratization. The most severe form of backsliding—state capture by ruling parties—has occurred in countries formerly regarded as paradigms of successful democratic transition. Despite research on different kinds of capture, little is known about the overall process by which political parties capture a state. In response, we develop a conceptual framework that identifies four interconnected strategies and corresponding tactics: (1) exploiting crises to advance political agendas, (2) deactivating controls to constrain oversight, (3) milking cash-cows to generate income, and (4) manipulating the political system to institutionalize rents. To demonstrate the analytical value of the framework, we compare how Fidesz in Hungary and VMRO-DPMNE in North Macedonia achieved a state of capture. Notwithstanding contextual differences, the analysis shows that the political parties of interest employed the same set of strategies.
Examining the Preparedness for Achieving Goal 4 of the SDGs in India: A Case Study on School Governance vis-à-vis Outcome for Primary Schools in Rural Maharashtra
Authors: Mukherjee Shrabani , Joshi Rujutha , Thakur Debdulal
Published: February 2022

The study inspects the status of school governance and school outcome at primary school level and set up roadmap for all the stakeholders to achieve the mandate of Goal 4 in SDGs within 2030, especially in the context of rural India. The status of school governance and school outcome are assessed under 4 dimensions and 16 parameters through a survey of 21 rural primary schools from rural Maharashtra. Two different indices have been constructed for school outcomes and school governance using multi-stage principal component analysis. Public and private-aided schools are compared according to the degree of accountability and transparency. It has been realized that there is an absolute need for strong school governance at ground level which is very poor across public schools in rural India. The study followed the Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI) project and ASER (2014) and considered these baselines to find the present status of school governance and school outcome for the present study.
Effluent decoy receptor 2 as a novel biomarker of peritoneal fibrosis in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Yang Jie , Cai Mingyu , Wan Jinfang , Wang Liming , Luo Jia , Li Xue , Gong Wenjiang , He Yani , Chen Jia
Published: February 2022

Background:

Peritoneal fibrosis (PF) is a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), but a specific and sensitive biomarker for PF is lacking. The present study aimed to determine the use of effluent decoy receptor 2 (eDcR2) as a biomarker for PF in PD patients.

Methods:

PD patients ( n = 248) were recruited, and peritoneal specimens were collected at PD initiation ( n = 30) and cessation ( n = 33). Enzyme-linked immunoassay was used to measure eDcR2 and the eDcR2 appearance rate (eDcR2-AR) was calculated. The levels of DcR2 mRNA and protein were determined. The correlation of eDcR2 level with peritoneal function, histological parameters and DcR2 expression were analysed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the diagnostic performance of eDcR2 for PF, which was defined as a submesothelial thickness 150 µm or more. Co-localisation of DcR2 with a mesothelial marker, fibroblast markers and fibrotic markers were determined.

Results:

The eDcR2-AR level correlated with PD duration, D/P Cr values, peritoneal Kt/V and peritoneal injury scores, especially submesothelial thickness ( r = 0.638, p < 0.001). DcR2 was primarily expressed in peritoneal fibroblasts, and co-localised with α-SMA, vimentin, collagen I and fibronectin, but not with E-cadherin. Peritoneal DcR2 expression had a positive correlation with eDcR2-AR. ROC analysis indicated eDcR2 had an area under the curve of 0.907 for detection of PF (sensitivity: 78.6%, specificity: 100%) and the best cut-off value was 392.5 pg/min.

Conclusion:

The eDcR2-AR level is a potential biomarker for assessing PF in PD patients. Effluent DcR2 was mainly derived from peritoneal fibroblasts and DcR2-positive cells may accelerate PF, suggesting that it may be a potential therapeutic target.
Disability Discrimination: Employer Considerations of Disabled Jobseekers in Light of the Ideal Worker
Authors: Østerud Kaja Larsen
Published: February 2022

Labour market stratification and discrimination of disabled people remains a less researched topic compared to other minorities despite being a notably disadvantaged group. This article explores the employer side of discrimination against disabled jobseekers by using a field experiment conducted in Norway as its point of departure. Through qualitative follow-up interviews, this article investigates employers’ assessments of equally qualified mobility-impaired candidates in a field experiment. The article employs the theoretical perspective of the ideal worker to shed light on how employers evaluate disabled jobseekers against an able-bodied ideal. Although previous literature on disability and the ideal worker has shown the imperative of asserting productivity, the findings in the current article reveal a stronger emphasis on social considerations as grounds for exclusion. The findings show how tacit constructions of the ideal worker not only relate to productivity but also to the creation of the socially integrated workplace.
Social Power and Non-cooperative Game Theory
Authors: Bosworth, William
Published: February 2022

This paper defends the use of non-cooperative game theory for analysing questions of governance. To do so it posits a way of extending the resource account of social power from cooperative games to noncooperative games in a way that side steps a range of criticism. This involves identifying tipping points in the reputations of certain agents for paying and punishing those in their thrall. These tipping points are what give threats and offers their credibility in the absence of enforcement mechanisms and stabilise the distribution of social resources in society.
Driving stability region solving method based on dissipation of energy
Authors: Meng Fanyu , Shi Shuming , Li Yunxia , Zhang Boshi , Yue Bingjian , Lin Nan
Published: February 2022

In the research of vehicle handling stability, it is important to analyze the vehicle driving stability region based on the driving torque and the front wheel steering angle bifurcation characteristics. Therefore, further simplifying and optimizing the method of solving the vehicle driving stability region is very useful. This paper proposes a new method for solving driving stability region based on dissipation of energy for the first time. This method has clear physical significance, and has a lot of advantages comparing with the classic methods: (1) The dissipation of energy is a quantitative indicator. (2) The calculation equation is simpler, and the calculation process is more intuitive. (3) This method is easier to expand, such as solving the driving stability region for higher degrees of freedom model.
Assessing Indian Point’s Electricity Generation Through Renewable Energy Pathways: A Technical and Economic Analysis
Authors: Frank Jenny R. , Brown Tristan R. , Bhonagiri Rohit D. , Quinn Ryan J. , McGiver Kirsten C. , Fortier Marie-Odile P. , Malmsheimer Robert W. , Volk Timothy A. , Dapp Thomas R.
Published: February 2022

The Indian Point Energy Center (IPEC) supplied approximately 25% of New York City and the surrounding area’s electricity. As of April 2021, the nuclear power plant has been shut down, creating the need for other energy sources to meet the demand. This scoping analysis study examined the ability of different renewable pathways (solar photovoltaic (PV), willow biomass, onshore wind, and two combinations of these) to replicate the IPEC’s electricity generation profile. Five renewable electricity generation supply profiles were developed and analyzed from monthly and seasonal perspectives. The timing and alignment of the different generation supply profiles relative to that of IPEC were analyzed. Productivity in MWh hectare−1 year−1 and economic feasibility of the renewable electricity pathway scenarios were assessed. This study identified the solar PV pathway as the most efficient in terms of electricity land productivity at 731.9 MWh hectare−1 year−1, while the willow biomass pathway was the least efficient at 15.2 MWh hectare−1 year−1. However, in terms of net electricity output to the grid, the solar PV pathway was the least productive at 137,610 MWh/year, while the onshore wind with willow biomass pathway produced the highest net output at 894,801 MWh/year. These findings are important at a time when policymakers are considering or implementing plans to phase out nuclear power in favor of renewable electricity.
Gender Differentials in Entrepreneurship: Insights from a Multi-method Study
Authors: Yadav Vanita , Unni Jeemol , Naik Ravikiran , Dutta Swati
Published: February 2022

Gender inequality is an obstacle to inclusive growth, and literature reveals shortcomings in the basic entrepreneurial assumption of equal access to resources, support and economic opportunities for women. International bodies have emphasised the need to examine gender differentials at various levels like, country, organisational and individual levels. Our study is a novel attempt in this direction and aims to build a comprehensive understanding of gender differentials in entrepreneurship using multi-method research design. We analyse and integrate findings from the macro-level using national level datasets (NSSO and Economic Census) and the micro-level using surveys (primary data and GEM India data). Our results note a gender equality lacuna, calling for the need to include meaningful sex-disaggregated data in national surveys, the entrepreneurial intentions of women, behavioural traits impacting women entrepreneurs, the importance of entrepreneurship education, fear of failure, self-confidence and the need for role models. We propose a model of macro and micro factors impacting women entrepreneurship in developing countries.
On superheroes and their mafia: Using The Lego Batman Movie to explain relational aspects of narcissism
Authors: Stone Meredith
Published: February 2022

Objective

Contemporary social discourse often emphasises the role of popular culture in the emergence of narcissistic disturbances. That the very same popular culture might be uniquely positioned to explain narcissism has been less explored. This article is part of a discussion series developed to teach registrars psychoanalytic concepts through the medium of film. It explores the depiction of narcissism in the 2017 The Lego Batman Movie.

Conclusions

Surprisingly for its genre, Lego Batman does not reify pejorative archetypes but rather draws out the relational genesis of Batman’s narcissism. The film closely aligns with an object-relations view and can help challenge the tendency, even among psychiatrists, to emphasise the self-importance in narcissistic disorders over underlying object-related conflicts. Furthermore, with its striking audio-visual techniques, the film both enlivens and distils complex psychoanalytic concepts and therapeutic processes for a general psychiatry audience.
Fatal non-traumatic gas gangrene caused by Clostridium perfringens type A in a Siberian Husky dog
Authors: Sprohnle-Barrera Cleide H. , Gibson Justine S. , Price Rochelle , Graham Rikki M. , Jennison Amy V. , Ricca Madeline R. , Allavena Rachel E.
Published: February 2022

An 8-y-old, castrated male Siberian Husky dog was admitted to an emergency clinic with acute collapse and severe swelling of both forelimbs, ventral thorax, and axillary region. The clinical assessment, with laboratory tests and radiologic investigation, confirmed severe subcutaneous emphysema and multi-organ failure. The animal died while receiving emergency treatment. On postmortem examination, Clostridium perfringens was isolated from the subcutaneous fluid and the effusion from the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Relevant histopathology findings included subcutaneous emphysema and multi-organ perivascular and intravascular, intralesional myriad 0.5–3-µm gram-positive rod bacteria, with no associated inflammation. Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis identified C. perfringens type A. Virulence genes detected included cpa (alpha toxin), cadA (v-toxin), colA (collagenase A), nagH (hyaluronidase), nanH, nanI, nanJ (sialidases), and pfoa (perfringolysin). These virulence genes have previously been reported to act synergistically with alpha toxin in C. perfringens–mediated gas gangrene.
Quality Assurance Standards for Outreach Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Repair Programs in Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Chahine Elsa M. , Ramly Elie P. , Marston Alexander P. , Teng Sarena N. , Nader Marie , Kassam Serena N. , Kantar Rami S. , Hamdan Usama S.
Published: February 2022

Background

Comprehensive cleft care is a multidisciplinary team endeavor. While untreated craniofacial conditions have multiple undue repercussions, cleft care in outreach settings can be fraught with significant perioperative morbidity risks.

Aim

Propose updated quality assurance standards addressing logistic and operational considerations essential for the delivery of safe and effective cleft lip and /or palate (CL/P) care in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) settings.

Methods

Based on American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association (ACPA) quality standards, published literature, published protocols by Global Smile Foundation (GSF), and the senior author's three-decade experience, updated standards for outreach cleft care were synthesized.

Results

Ten axes for safe, effective, and sustainable cleft lip and palate care delivery in underserved settings were generated: 1) site assessment, 2) establishment of community partnerships, 3) team composition and credentialing, 4) team training and mission preparation, 5) implementation of quality assurance guidelines, operative safety checklists, and emergency response protocols, 6) immediate and long-term postoperative care, 7) medical record keeping, 8) outcomes evaluation, 9) education, and 10) capacity building and sustainability. Subsequent analysis further characterized essential components of each of those ten axes to delineate experience derived and evidence-based recommendations.

Discussion

Quality assurance guidelines are essential for the safe delivery of comprehensive cleft care to patients with CL/P in any setting. Properly designed surgical outreach programs relying on honest community partnerships can be effectively used as vehicles for local capacity building and the establishment of sustainable cleft care ecosystems.