bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of Cadmium Telluride Quantum Dots and Its Effects on Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate-cAMP Response Element-Binding Proteins-Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Signaling Pathway in Mouse Hippocampus
Authors: Chen Ping , Yue Xinai , Dai Wei , Wang Xia , Li Yingying , Xie Hongjian , Jiang Dongmei , Jiang Yongmei
Published: July 2021

N-acetyl-L-cysteine-modified CdTe QDs (Cadmium Telluride Quantum Dots) were obtained by hydrothermal method, and DA (amino deoxyglucose), PEG (polyethylene glycol), and 9-p-D (9 polyamine acid) were obtained by ligand substitution, which were used for remodifying CdTe
QDs. Successively, a novel CdTe QDs nanoma-terial, CdTe-NALC, was obtained. This composite nanometer material was characterized by ultraviolet, fluorescence spectrum, nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen-spectrum, and other methods to study further its biocompatibility and toxic effect on the
primary cultured mouse hippocampus neurons. PC12 cells were vitro-cultured and dissolved in the CdTe-NALC solution with different concentrations. After 24 h, the expression levels of proteins related to the cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate)-CREB (cAMP response element-binding proteins)-BDNF
(brain-derived neurotrophic factor) signaling pathway in the cells were detected by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) kit. In the experiment, the DA/9-p-D/PEG-modified CdTe QDs composite nanometer material was successfully manufactured by ligand replacement. The nanoparticles
had good dis-persibility with an average particle size of about 9.2 nm. DA/9-p-D/PEG modification improved the biocompatibil-ity of the QDs. CdTe composite nanomaterials could significantly reduce the cell activity of mouse hippocampal neurons and promote their apoptosis, with an evident
dose-apoptosis relationship. With the increase of CDTE-NALC solution concentration, cAMP, pCREB (phosphorylated CREB), and BDNF protein content decreased (P < 0.05).
Experimental Study on Acoustic Characteristics of Particle Breakage Under Combined Shear and Extrusion Load
Authors: Luo Jian Yu , Xin Tong , Yi Wu Huang
Published: July 2021

The jaw crushing loading process is a typical loading process of combined shearing and extrusion. In this paper, by establishing a complete jaw crushing loading process, the sonic test method is used to determine and analyze the particle crushing law to explore acoustic characteristics
of particle crushing under the combined action of shear and extrusion. A jaw crushing tester is used to simulate the jaw crushing process of sand aggregate specimens. A rock-soil sound wave detector is used to measure the sound speed, sound amplitude, and sound intensity during the simulated
jaw crushing process. It is found that when the jaw angle variation range is 2.6°, the inlet-outlet ratio is 0.332 and the motor speed is 15 r/min, the sound velocity and the sound amplitude curves fluctuate more drastically and the sound intensity is higher. The crushing evaluation of
the sand aggregate specimens, which have experienced crushing simulation, shows that when the jaw angle variation range is 3.0°, the inlet-outlet ratio is 0.332 and the motor speed is 33 r/min, higher crushing energy rate and crushing rate are achieved. Through the comparative analysis
of each group’s acoustic parameters and crushing evaluations, it is found that both the acoustic parameters and the crushing evaluations reflect the crushing process, but they have similarities and differences. Therefore, to some extent, the acoustic parameters in the crushing process
can be regarded as significant indicators for evaluating the crushing effect. This conclusion may be a reference for optimizing working parameters and structural parameters of crushing equipment.
Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO Doped with Gold Nanoparticles for Improved Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Yu Juyoung , Kim Jongsung
Published: July 2021

Recently, gold nanoparticles have been widely employed to achieve the activation of the catalytic properties of semiconductors for the decomposition of organic dyes. In this study, gold nanoparticles were prepared by Turke-vich method using HAuCl4and trisodium citrate dehydrate. gold nanoparticles with size of 18, 20, and 22 nm were prepared by controlling the trisodium citrate dehydrate concentration and reaction time. Furthermore, ZnO nanorods were prepared using zinc nitrate hexahydrate through a hydrothermal process. Finally, ZnO doped with gold nanoparticles nanocomposite photocatalysts were prepared by mixing ZnO and gold nanoparticles and drying at 60 °C. The photocatalytic activity of the nanocomposites was evaluated through the degradation of Rhodamine B dye under solar light. ZnO doped with 22 nm of gold nanoparticles showed the highest photocatalytic activity, providing up to 78.6% dye degradation. The highest photocatalytic activity of the ZnO doped with 22 nm of gold nanoparticles nanocomposite was probably due to the increased surface plasmon resonance effect of the gold nanoparticles.
Analysis on the Performance of Nano-Composite Resin Dental Restorative Materials
Authors: Liu Fang , Qian Cheng , Xu Li , Zhang Rongxiu , Liu Liang , Wu Zhigang , Zhang Kai , Liao Shengkai , Xie Xiaofei
Published: July 2021

After long-term use of resin materials for dental repair, plaque is easy to accumulate on the surface to form biofilms, which can cause caries. Although antibacterial agents are applied to oral resins, the antibacterial ability, mechanical performance, and biocompatibility of the material
have to be considered. In this study, the cationic polymer NPVP with different lengths of alkyl chain is adopted to modify the carbon–nanodiamond (CND), and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) is introduced to reduce the cytotoxicity of the modified particles and improve the compatibility
with the resin matrix. Among the multiple composite samples obtained, MND-H10 shows the best de-aggregation effect, with a particle size of 70 nm. In addition, it plays a good antibacterial effect against Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive
bacteria (GPB) Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). On this basis, the polymerizable antibacterial nano-composite particles (modified nano-diamonds, MNDs) are prepared and polymerized with the resin matrix Bisphenol A bis-methyl/glycidyl acrylate (Bis-GMA)/Triglycol dimethacrylate
(TEGDMA) to construct an antibacterial dental repair material. After testing, the Vickers hardness, flexural strength, and flexural modulus of the 0.6 wt% modified resin material all increase by more than 45%. Due to the addition of nano-particles, the material shows a certain antibacterial
ability, an increased hydrophilicity, and antibacterial adhesion ability. 10 patients with clinically defective or missing dentition during June 2017 to October 2017 are selected from the affiliated hospitals of the college, who are treated with the threaded implants. After a year of clinical
observation, the threaded implants have achieved better osseointegration results.
Enhanced Electro-Magnetic Wave Absorbing Properties of Fe3O4-Polyaniline Nano-Composites
Authors: Jin Yihan , Luo Xi , Zhang Jinglin , Yu Yipeng , An Jing , Zhang Jianfu , Zhao Dongliang , Gao Kewei
Published: July 2021

Fe3O4-polyaniline (Fe3O4-PANI) binary nano-composites have been prepared by in-situ polymerization of aniline monomer on surface of Fe3O4 magnetic nano-particles. The morphology, structure and magnetic performance
are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and vibration sample magnetism (VSM). The electro-magnetic data is tested by vector network analyzer demonstrating that the minimum reflection loss (RLmin)
value of Fe3O4-PANI is -26 dB at 17 GHz with 1.5 mm thickness and 3.48 GHz (14.52 GHz~18 GHz) absorbing bandwidth (RL < -10 dB). It is believed that such composites will have a promising application in the future.
Potential for Ground-Based Glaciogenic Cloud Seeding over Mountains in the Interior Western United States and Anticipated Changes in a Warmer Climate
Authors: Mazzetti Thomas O. , Geerts Bart , Xue Lulin , Tessendorf Sarah , Weeks Courtney , Wang Yonggang
Published: July 2021

Glaciogenic cloud seeding has long been practiced as a way to increase water availability in arid regions, such as the interior western United States. Many seeding programs in this region target cold-season orographic clouds with ground-based silver iodide generators. Here, the “seedability” (defined as the fraction of time that conditions are suitable for ground-based seeding) is evaluated in this region from 10 years of hourly output from a regional climate model with a horizontal resolution of 4 km. Seedability criteria are based on temperature, presence of supercooled liquid water, and Froude number, which is computed here as a continuous field relative to the local terrain. The model’s supercooled liquid water compares reasonably well to microwave radiometer observations. Seedability peaks at 20%–30% for many mountain ranges in the cold season, with the best locations just upwind of crests, over the highest terrain in Colorado and Wyoming, as well as over ranges in the northwest interior. Mountains farther south are less frequently seedable, because of warmer conditions, but when they are, cloud supercooled liquid water content tends to be relatively high. This analysis is extended into a future climate, anticipated for later this century, with a mean temperature 2.0 K warmer than the historical climate. Seedability generally will be lower in this future warmer climate, especially in the most seedable areas, but, when seedable, clouds tend to contain slightly more supercooled liquid water.
The Influence of Weather Watch Type on the Quality of Tornado Warnings and its Implications for Future Forecasting Systems
Authors: Krocak Makenzie J. , Brooks Harold E.
Published: July 2021

While many studies have looked at the quality of forecast products, few have attempted to understand the relationship between them. We begin to consider whether or not such an influence exists by analyzing storm-based tornado warning product metrics with respect to whether they occurred within a severe weather watch and, if so, what type of watch they occurred within.

The probability of detection, false alarm ratio, and lead time all show a general improvement with increasing watch severity. In fact, the probability of detection increased more as a function of watch-type severity than the change in probability of detection during the time period of analysis. False alarm ratio decreased as watch type increased in severity, but with a much smaller magnitude than the difference in probability of detection. Lead time also improved with an increase in watch-type severity. Warnings outside of any watch had a mean lead time of 5.5 minutes, while those inside of a particularly dangerous situation tornado watch had a mean lead time of 15.1 minutes. These results indicate that the existence and type of severe weather watch may have an influence on the quality of tornado warnings. However, it is impossible to separate the influence of weather watches from possible differences in warning strategy or differences in environmental characteristics that make it more or less challenging to warn for tornadoes. Future studies should attempt to disentangle these numerous influences to assess how much influence intermediate products have on downstream products.
Serum GP88 as a predictive biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with viral hepatitis C after direct-acting antiviral agents
Authors: Ishida Hidekazu , Takemura Masao , Suetsugu Atsushi , Naiki Takafumi , Tanaka Takuji , Eiichi Tomita , Serrero Ginette , Matsunami Hidetoshi , Yamamoto Yasuko , Saito Kuniaki
Published: July 2021

Background

Progranulin (GP88) is an 88-kDa glycoprotein growth factor with important biological effects in tumorigenesis and tumour survival. We investigated the usefulness of measuring serum GP88 concentrations as a predictive biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with viral hepatitis C after treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents.

Methods

We measured the serum GP88 concentrations by using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunoassay from 67 healthy control subjects and 29 patients (20 patients who did not develop hepatocellular carcinoma and 9 patients who developed hepatocellular carcinoma after treatment) with viral hepatitis C after treatment with asunaprevir and daclatasvir.

Results

The serum GP88 concentrations of patients with chronic hepatitis C prior to antiviral treatment were significantly higher than those of healthy control subjects. After antiviral treatment, the serum GP88 concentrations of patients who eventually developed hepatocellular carcinoma were significantly higher than those who did not develop hepatocellular carcinoma. The changes in the serum GP88 concentrations before and after treatment in patients who developed hepatocellular carcinoma were significantly lower than those in patients who did not develop hepatocellular carcinoma. The cumulative incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma was significantly higher in either patients with high serum GP88 concentrations after treatment or those with small changes of serum GP88 concentrations pre- and post-treatment.

Conclusions

Sustained high concentrations of serum GP88 in patients treated with direct-acting antiviral agents are correlated with the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma.
Reflecting Backward to Project Forward: Refocusing on Values in Organizational Change
Authors: Klein Janina
Published: July 2021

As ideals about what is worth having, doing, and being, values are core to organizational functioning. Various organizational elements, such as design, identity, and culture, as well as organizational practices, are infused with values, pointing to the critical role values play during organizational change. While we know that the congruence between established values and those of prescribed changes influences change outcomes, our understanding of the role of values in organizational change processes remains largely speculative. In this paper, I outline how taking a value-centered approach to organizational change can enhance our understanding of organizational change processes.
Equity Scenario Response Survey: Understanding Teacher Candidates’ Preparation of Their Sociopolitical Identity
Authors: Bell Nicholas S , Codding Diane
Published: July 2021

Teacher educators have a limited amount of time to prepare candidates for becoming political change agents. Therefore, we have to understand the efficacy of preparation efforts. As a result, we developed the Equity Scenario Response Survey to understand our candidates’ preparation of their sociopolitical identity, defined by equity knowledge and skills. Findings from quantitative analyses revealed a reliable and valid scale, while qualitative analyses provided rich information about candidates’ understanding and application of skills. Overall, the utilization of quantitative and qualitative methods allowed researchers to understand from a critical race perspective, the preparedness of candidates’ sociopolitical identity to confront inequities.
Improving the Assessment of Teaching Effectiveness With the Nonequivalent Dependent Variables Approach
Authors: Reynolds Joshua J.
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Assessing teaching effectiveness is relevant for improving one’s teaching and for moving through the tenure process; however, the validity of assessment methods, such as Student Evaluations of Teaching (SET), have been heavily criticized.

Statement of the Problem:

Using a one–group pretest–posttest design and assessing learning over the semester has several advantages over SET; however, one drawback is in making conclusions about the cause of changes in the post-test. A change could be due to learning in the semester, maturation, history, or even a testing effect.

Literature Review:

To improve the inferential quality of teaching assessment, a nonequivalent dependent variable (DV) design is highly advantageous. A nonequivalent DV is an outcome that is not the target of the intervention yet responds to the same contextually relevant factors.

Teaching Implications:

By using a nonequivalent DV design, there might be an increase from the beginning of the semester to the end of the semester in the main DV, but no increase in the nonequivalent DV, which provides a stronger argument that the change in the main DV is due to a true learning effect.

Conclusion:

Using nonequivalent DV methodology improves inferential quality and is easily implemented.
Fintech and responsibility: Buy-now-pay-later arrangements
Authors: Gerrans Paul , Baur Dirk G , Lavagna-Slater Shane
Published: July 2021

Buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) arrangements have rapidly emerged as a short-term debt option, and like other innovative and disruptive Fintech, challenge existing regulation. BNPL arrangements avoided prescribed ‘responsible lending’ legislative obligations, which applied to similar short-term credit products. Instead, BNPL relies on ‘responsible spending’ in providing a potentially cheaper option than alternatives such as credit cards. We describe the interplay of regulation and responsibility with BNPL. A survey investigates whether a key demographic (young adults) have an appetite or skill for responsible use. We analyse the preference for BNPL relative to credit cards and the role of financial literacy and traits including propensity to plan and save. The findings suggest that financial literacy reduces perceived BNPL benefits and that lower financial literacy is associated with more benefits and less risks.

JEL Classification: G53, D14, G51, G41, G18
Effect of a Porous Suture Containing Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 on Healing After Rotator Cuff Repair in a Rat Model
Authors: Yoon Jong Pil , Kim Hun-Min , Choi Jin-Hyun , Kang Hae Rim , Kim Dong Hyun , Choi Young Seo , Kim Kyung-Rock , Kim Ja-Yeon , Baek Samuel , Chung Seok Won
Published: July 2021

Background:

The healing failure rate after rotator cuff repair is considerably high.

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect of a porous suture containing transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) on the sustained release of TGF-β1 and rotator cuff healing in a rat model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A porous suture was developed, and its tensile strength was measured. TGF-β1 was delivered using the porous suture, and a TGF-β1 release test and human fibroblast proliferation assay were performed. For the animal experiment, 30 rats were randomly allocated into 3 groups (n = 10 each). A bilateral supraspinatus tendon tear was made in all the rats, and repair was performed. Group 1 received repair only; group 2, repair and a single injection of TGF-β1; and group 3, repair using the porous suture containing TGF-β1. Eight weeks after repair, biomechanical and histological analyses were performed.

Results:

The porous suture was successfully developed with mechanical properties compatible with the conventional suture, and the sustained release of TGF-β1 from the porous suture was confirmed. In addition, the cell proliferation assay confirmed the biological safety of the porous suture. In the animal experiment, group 3 biomechanically exhibited the largest cross-sectional area and the highest ultimate failure load and ultimate stress (all P < .05). Histological examination revealed that group 3 showed significantly better collagen fiber density and tendon-to-bone maturation than did groups 1 and 2 (all P < .05).

Conclusion:

The porous suture containing TGF-β1 could sustainedly and safely release TGF-β1, and its use during rotator cuff repair could improve rotator cuff healing, as assessed on the basis of the biomechanical and histological changes in the rat model in this study. Considering the effectiveness, safety, and convenience of the porous suture without extra effort in surgery, the findings of the present study will have a far-reaching effect on the treatment of rotator cuff tears.

Clinical Relevance:

The porous suture containing TGF-β1 might improve healing after rotator cuff repair.
Positive and Negative Aging Perceptions as Predictors of the Longitudinal Trajectory of Perceived Stress
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: July 2021

This study sought to examine whether positive and negative perceptions of aging (beliefs about the consequences of aging and levels of control over one’s aging) are associated with perceived levels of stress over time. A sample of adults ( N = 6,345, ≥50 years, Mage = 62.23) participating in the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) was used. Data were collected across four waves between 2009 and 2016. The results of latent growth curve modeling showed that, after controlling for age and gender, positive and negative perceptions of aging predicted initial levels of perceived stress. Therefore, aging perceptions have robust synchronous associations with the levels of perceived stress in adults and thus merit attention in aging-related research, practice, education, and policy making. However, these perceptions did not confidently predict longitudinal trajectories of perceived stress.
Impact of ABCDE Bundle Implementation in the Intensive Care Unit on Specific Patient Costs
Authors: Otusanya Olufisayo T. , Hsieh S. Jean , Gong Michelle Ng , Gershengorn Hayley B.
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

To measure the impact of full versus partial ABCDE bundle implementation on specific cost centers and related resource utilization.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Two medical ICUs within Montefiore Health System (Bronx, NY).

Patients:

Four hundred and seventy-two mechanically ventilated patients admitted to the medical ICUs during a hospitalization which began and ended between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2013.

Interventions:

The full (A)wakening, (B)reathing, (C)oordination, (D)elirium Monitoring/Management and (E)arly Mobilization bundle was implemented in the intervention ICU while a portion of the bundle (A, B, and D components) was implemented in the comparison ICU.

Measurements and Main Results:

Relative to the comparison ICU, implementation of the entire bundle in the intervention ICU was associated with a 27.3% (95% CI: 9.9%, 41.3%; P = 0.004) decrease in total hospital laboratory costs and a 2,888.6% (95% CI: 77.9%, 50,113.2%; P = 0.018) increase in total hospital physical therapy costs. Cost of total hospital medications, diagnostic radiology and respiratory therapy were unchanged. Relative to the comparison ICU, total hospital resource use decreased in the intervention ICU (incidence rate ratio [95% CI], laboratory: 0.68 [0.54, 0.87], P = 0.002; diagnostic radiology: 0.75 [0.59, 0.96], P = 0.020).

Conclusions:

Full ABCDE bundle implementation resulted in a decrease in total hospital laboratory costs and total hospital laboratory and diagnostic resource utilization while leading to an increase in physical therapy costs.
The novel hybrid polycarbonate polyurethane / polyester three-layered large-diameter artificial blood vessel
Authors: Gu Yuanrui , Tian Chen , Qin Yilang , Sun Yangxue , Liu Sishi , Li Huichai , Duan Xuejing , Shu Chang , Ouyang Chenxi
Published: July 2021

Background

The most common materials of artificial blood vessels are polyethylene terephthalate and polytetrafluoroethylene. But polycarbonate polyurethane (PCU) is an ideal material for vascular prostheses because of their excellent characteristics. As far as we know, our artificial blood vessel is the first type of hybrid PCU/polyester three-layered large-diameter artificial blood vessel in the world.

Objective

The purpose of this preclinical animal experiment is to evaluate the hemocompatibility, histocompatibility, effectiveness, and safety of the three-layered large-diameter artificial blood vessel in sheep.

Methods

The artificial blood vessels took place of the initial segments of the sheep’s thoracic aorta by end-to-end anastomosis.

Results

All of the 14 sheep are male, their average body weight (BW) was 30.57 ± 3.95 kg. All 14 artificial blood vessels successfully replaced the thoracic aortas. 5 sheep did not survive to the end of the experiment, while the remaining 9 sheep did. After the surgery, the blood biochemical and blood routine indicators fluctuate slightly within the normal range. The angiography showed that the implanted artificial blood vessels were unobstructed without obvious stenosis or expansion. 24 weeks after surgery, the lumen surfaces of the artificial blood vessels were covered by endothelia in different degrees, and the average endothelialization rate was 69.44% (range: 20% to 100%).

Conclusions

This artificial blood vessel is the first to use PCU in large-diameter artificial vascular grafts. It has excellent blood compatibility, wonderful biocompatibility, high endothelialization rate, and 100% patency.
Work Experiences and Self-Esteem Development: A Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Krauss Samantha , Orth Ulrich
Published: July 2021

Theory suggests that people’s work experiences influence their self-esteem and, vice versa, that self-esteem influences work experiences. This meta-analysis of longitudinal studies synthesizes the available evidence on prospective effects between work experiences and self-esteem, controlling for prior levels of the outcomes. The following work variables were examined: job satisfaction, job success, income, job resources, job stressors, and employment status. The analyses were based on 30 independent samples, including data from 53,112 participants. Mean age ranged from 17 to 64 years, spanning most of the work life. For each work variable, we computed random-effects models with standardized regression coefficients as effect size measure. Results suggested reciprocal effects between work experiences and self-esteem. The effects of self-esteem on later work experiences (point estimates ranged from .05 to .10) were slightly larger than the effects of work experiences on later self-esteem (point estimates ranged from .02 to .05). Moderator analyses on the relation between job satisfaction and self-esteem indicated that the effects did not differ across age, gender, sample type, and time lag. Overall, the findings support the corresponsive principle of personality development and suggest that the work domain and people’s self-esteem are interdependent.
Spiritual Self-Care Management for Nursing Professionals: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Nilsson Håkan
Published: July 2021

Among all the groups and occupations that have been affected by the global pandemic, nursing professionals stand out as having been particularly hard-pressed due to the dramatic increase in the need for their services. Given the rising tide of coronavirus disease 2019 patients who require specialized medical treatment as well as the millions of others that are lining up for vaccinations, it can be assumed that many nursing professionals have had to endure such things as longer working hours, tighter schedules, and the intensity of a work environment in which failure of care and multiple deaths are the daily fare. This article proposes that nurses can avoid such severe consequences by taking up a regime of enhanced self-care management that enables them to achieve psychophysical balance and wellness. Three practices are highlighted in this regard: prayer, meditative walking, and the mindfulness practice of body scanning. Our suggestion is that these coping strategies will be both beneficial and healthful for nursing professionals in terms of enhancing their spiritual/existential resilience and meeting their own need for consolation as they navigate in an extremely difficult and demanding work environment.
Academic engagement with small business and entrepreneurship: Towards a landscape of practice
Authors: Jones Oswald
Published: July 2021

Academic engagement with small business and entrepreneurship was facilitated by the availability of European Union (EU) funding, which also stimulated the emergence of a small business and entrepreneurship (SBE) ‘community of practice’. Gradually, the SBE community developed into a ‘landscape of practice’ as small business research moved towards maturity. Furthermore, the SBE landscape of practice has coalesced around three core concepts: entrepreneurial learning, social networks and social capital. EU funding was the catalyst for many SBE academics in the UK to engage with practitioners involved with starting and managing their own businesses. The UK’s exit from the EU will inevitably mean that universities will no longer have access to EU Structural Funds. This has major implications for the UK SBE community’s engagement with practice as well as for entrepreneurs and business owners who have benefitted from a range of programmes designed to improve the performance of smaller firms.
Effect of the content of silane-functionalized boron carbide on the mechanical and wear performance of B4C reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Bhatia Sunny , Khan Sabah , Angra Surjit
Published: July 2021

This article presents the mechanical, physical, and tribological properties of the boron carbide (B4C) reinforced epoxy matrix composites (BEMCs). The BEMC samples were prepared with various B4C concentration of 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 5%. B4C particles were treated with a silane coupling agent to ensure efficient adhesion with epoxy. The influence of a range of parameters (particle loading, sliding speed, sliding distance, and normal load) on the wear and friction behavior of BEMCs were evaluated by conducting wear tests under dry sliding conditions on a pin-on-disc wear test set-up. The addition of B4C to the epoxy polymer improved the wear resistance of the composites. Maximum wear resistance and coefficient of friction were observed for the composite with the highest percentage of B4C (5%). The specific wear rate was reduced on increasing load and sliding distance and increased with the sliding velocity. Mechanical properties including compression strength, flexural strength, and impact energy, along with physical properties such as density and hardness, were also evaluated. B4C particles improved the hardness, density, flexural and compression strength, and impact resistance of the composites. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis of the worn-out surfaces and flexural fractured surfaces was carried out to predict the possible wear and fracture mechanisms. Micro-ploughing, abrasion, and adhesion were the wear mechanisms in BEMCs. Under the flexural loads, particulate de-bonding, pull-out, and brittle fracture of the matrix were the governing failure mechanisms.
Condyloma latum of the plantar foot: Case report of an unusual manifestation of secondary syphilis
Authors: Leavens Joan , Furukawa Daisuke , Gates Gregory
Published: July 2021

Condyloma lata, a cutaneous manifestation of secondary syphilis, typically presents as verrucous papules or plaques in the anogenital area. Here, we present a case of secondary syphilis presenting in a 38-year-old man as condyloma latum of the plantar foot in the absence of other cutaneous findings of secondary syphilis. The plantar foot is an unusual location for condyloma lata which has not previously been reported in the medical literature. Histopathology was essential to diagnosis in this case and demonstrated verrucous epidermal hyperplasia with a plasma cell-rich infiltrate in the dermis and innumerable spirochetes in the epidermis. The patient was successfully treated with intramuscular penicillin benzathine G. Given the recent rise in the incidence of primary and secondary syphilis, it is essential for clinicians to be aware of atypical presentations of secondary syphilis to avoid delays in treatment and decrease the risk of transmission to sexual partners.
The effect of dry needling of myofascial trigger points on muscle stiffness and motoneuron excitability in healthy subjects
Authors: Jiménez-Sánchez Carolina , Gómez-Soriano Julio , Bravo-Esteban Elisabeth , Mayoral-del Moral Orlando , Herrero-Gállego Pablo , Ortiz-Lucas Maria
Published: July 2021

Background:

Myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are hypersensitive nodules in a taut band (TB) of skeletal muscle. Dry needling (DN) is an invasive technique recommended for the treatment of MTrPs. However, to our knowledge, no studies have investigated the influence of the DN technique on modification of muscle stiffness and neurophysiological properties of MTrPs.

Objective:

The objective was to examine the effect of DN on muscle stiffness and motoneuron excitability of a latent medial MTrP (nodule and TB) of the soleus muscle in non-injured subjects.

Methods:

A double-blinded randomised controlled trial of 46 subjects with latent medial MTrPs of the soleus was conducted, in which all received one session of DN. The intervention group (n = 23) were subjected to DN into the MTrP (the nodule), while the control group (n = 23) were subjected to DN into the TB. Assessment was carried out at baseline (pre-test), after the intervention (post-test) and 1 week after the intervention (follow-up). Biomechanical variables (muscle resistive force at 10°/s and 180°/s, muscle extensibility and strength), as measured with an isokinetic dynamometer, and neurophysiological variables (H-reflex), were recorded.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in biomechanical or neurophysiological assessments between groups. Considering the intra-group analysis, subjects in the intervention group exhibited increased maximal isometric voluntary force to ankle plantarflexion (MIVFp) at both post-intervention and follow-up assessment (p < 0.0125; 0.2 < d < 0.5), while no changes were found in the control group.

Conclusion:

One session of DN targeting latent MTrPs did not change muscle stiffness, muscle extensibility or motoneuron excitability. Further research on subjects with muscle tone disorders should be considered to better address the impact of DN on muscle tone.

Trial registration number:

NCT02575586 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Ethnography in Health Services Research: Oscillation Between Theory and Practice
Authors: Cubellis Lauren , Schmid Christine , von Peter Sebastian
Published: July 2021

The well-known divergence between what policy and protocol look like on paper, and what happens in the actual practice of daily life remains a central challenge in health services provision and research. This disparity is usually referred to as the theory–practice gap and contributes to concerns that scientific evidence fails to make substantial impacts on the processes of service delivery. In this article, we present an argument for the inclusion of ethnographic methods in health services research and show that this approach enables researchers to address this divergence by working within it. We trace how ethnography, through generative processes of oscillation, can take us beyond lamenting the gap and capture the relational dynamics of people working together in complex systemic arrangements. By moving from example to methodological reflection, to principle of research, we demonstrate how the oscillation of ethnographic research between theory and practice can productively contribute to the field of health service research.
Constructive Distributed Work: An Integrated Approach to Sustainable Collaboration and Research for Distributed Teams
Authors: McMullin Michelle , Dilger Bradley
Published: July 2021

Academic work increasingly involves creating digital tools with interdisciplinary teams distributed across institutions and roles. The negative impacts of distributed work are described at length in technical communication scholarship, but such impacts have not yet been realized in collaborative practices. By integrating attention to their core ethical principles, best practices, and work patterns, the authors are developing an ethical, sustainable approach to team building that they call constructive distributed work. This article describes their integrated approach, documents the best practices that guide their research team, and models the three-dimensional thinking that helps them develop sustainable digital tools and ensure the consistent professional development of all team members.
An Evaluation of Post-Concussion Return to School Guidelines: A Survey of Massachusetts School Nurses
Authors: Howland Jonathan , Campbell Julia , Thomas Rebekah , Smyth Steven , Chaneco Aynsley , Torres Alcy , Olshaker Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Although all states have legislation pertaining to youth sports concussion, most of these laws focus on return-to-play procedures; only a few address return-to-learn (RTL) accommodations for students who have experienced a concussion. To address this gap in the legislation, some states and nongovernmental organizations have developed RTL guidelines to advise school personnel, parents, and health care providers on best practices for accommodating students' postconcussion reintegration into academic activity. In 2018, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) developed RTL guidelines which were disseminated to school nurses (SNs) at all public and nonpublic middle and high schools in the state. In 2020, the MDPH engaged the Injury Prevention Center at Boston Medical Center to survey Massachusetts SNs to assess the usefulness of the guidelines. The response rate was 63%; 92% found the booklet extremely useful or moderately useful; and 70% endorsed that the booklet fostered collaboration among stakeholders.
The Interplay Between Poly-Victimization and Sexual Assault in Late Life in the Context of Life Course Perspective
Authors: Lev Sagit , Harel Dovrat , Goldblatt Hadass , Band-Winterstein Tova
Published: July 2021

The aim of this article is to explore the interplay between poly-victimization and sexual assault against women in late life (SAWLL) according to the life-course perspective. Two themes emerged from qualitative interviews with 18 experienced welfare and health care professionals who intervened in cases of SAWLL: sexual assault by a spouse co-occurring with other types of abuse within marital relationships, and sexual assault and other types of abuse by two or more perpetrators along the life course. In many cases, SAWLL is an expression of a broader experience of poly-victimization, which relates to vulnerability in old age.
Examining the Relationship Between Gastroschisis and Placental Fetal Vascular Malperfusion
Authors: Ruschkowski Brittany , Nasr Ahmed , Oltean Irina , Lawrence Sarah , El Demellawy Dina
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Gastroschisis is a congenital malformation characterized by intestinal herniation through an abdominal wall defect. Despite its unknown pathogenesis, known risk factors include maternal smoking, alcohol use, and young maternal age. Previous work has shown that gastroschisis is associated with placental delayed villous maturation, and the goal of this study was to assess for additional associated placental pathologies that may help clarify the pathogenesis of gastroschisis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective slide review of 29 placentas of neonates with gastroschisis. Additionally, we reviewed pathology reports from one control group of 30 placentas with other congenital malformations. Gross and histological data were collected based on a standardized rubric.

Results

Gastroschisis was associated with increased placental fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) in 62% of cases (versus 0% of controls, p < 0.0001). It was also associated with increased placental villous maldevelopment in 76% of cases (versus 3% of controls, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates an association between gastroschisis and FVM. While FVM could be the consequence of vascular disruption due to the ventral location of gastroschisis, it could also reflect estrogen-induced thrombosis in early pregnancy. Further research is needed to separate these possibilities and determine the cause of the placental FVM observed in gastroschisis.
Vitelline Vessel Remnant-Derived Funisitis Is a Sensitive and Specific Predictor of Histological Evidence of Amniotic Fluid Infection
Authors: De Guzman John Kemuel , Yu Weiming , Koning Lawrence de , Horn Christopher , Wright James R
Published: July 2021

Background

4-11% of umbilical cords contain vitelline vessel remnants (VVRs). A recent study has described neutrophilic inflammation arising from VVRs and suggested an association with amniotic fluid infection (AFI).

Methods

During routine placental pathology sign-out over a six month period, we identified 70 cords with VVRs. HE-stained sections were re-examined for “VVR-derived funisitis,” which was classified as low or high grade/stage based upon whether neutrophils were present only in Wharton’s jelly near the VVRs or whether neutrophils were also present near the cord’s amniotic surface. The same placentas were also examined for histologic evidence of AFI (maternal response = acute chorionitis or chorioamnionitis vs. fetal response = chorionic vasculitis, umbilical vasculitis, or funisitis vs. both).

Results

Neutrophilic inflammation arising from VVRs was present in 54.3% (38/70); 15 and 23 lesions were low and high grade/stage, respectively. “VVR-derived funisitis” was strongly associated with histological evidence of AFI elsewhere in the placenta. Its overall sensitivity and specificity were 0.94 and 0.88; when VVR-derived funisitis was high grade/stage or diagnosed in the third trimester, specificity rose to 1.0.

Conclusion

“VVR-derived funisitis” has a strong association with histological evidence of AFI.
Feline cutaneous lymphoma: an evaluation of disease presentation and factors affecting response to treatment
Authors: Siewert Jacob , Pellin MacKenzie A , Husbands Brian D , Curran Kaitlin M , Scavelli Diane , Sampene Emmanuel
Published: July 2021

Objectives

The primary goal of this study was to characterize the clinical presentation of feline cutaneous lymphoma. The secondary aims included determining if treatment or initial response to treatment affected the overall survival of patients, and understanding if disease characteristics such as immunophenotype, cell size or the presence of epitheliotropism influenced response to treatment.

Methods

Veterinary medical oncologists at four academic veterinary teaching hospitals submitted cases of feline patients with cutaneous lymphoma diagnosed by histopathology or cytology. Signalment, feline leukemia virus (FeLV)/feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) status, physical examination findings, clinical signs, diagnostic tests, therapy, response and outcome, and necropsy findings, when available, were recorded.

Results

Forty-one patients were identified and described. The majority of patients were domestic shorthair cats (n = 29). The median age at diagnosis was 12.3 years. Males were over-represented in the population (n = 30). In the majority of patients (n = 33), the FIV/FeLV status was unknown. Twenty patients were fully staged. Thirty-four patients were treated with a variety of modalities, including surgery, radiation, single-agent or combination chemotherapy, or prednisolone only. In multiple patients, surgery or radiation was combined with a systemic therapy. Of 34 patients treated with some form of therapy, 20 responded (achieving either a partial response or complete remission).

Conclusions and relevance

Clinical signs and physical examination findings varied among patients. Response to therapy appeared to be associated with survival (P = 0.0025); however, this population was highly censored. Immunophenotype, cell size and the presence of epitheliotropism did not influence treatment response. Results were limited by small numbers of patients, heterogeneous disease manifestations and treatment protocols. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the effect of specific treatment modalities and disease subtype on prognosis.
Human Ectoparasites Are Highly Prevalent in the Rural Communities of Northwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gizaw Zemichael , Engdaw Garedew Tadege , Nigusie Adane , Gebrehiwot Mulat , Destaw Bikes
Published: July 2021

Background:

Ectoparasites are organisms which inhabit the skin or outgrowths of the skin of another organism (the host). Many ectoparasites are known to be vectors of pathogens, which the parasites typically transmit to hosts. Though, ectoparasites are common in the vulnerable groups and economically disadvantaged communities, there is limited evidence on its magnitude in Ethiopia. This community-based cross-sectional study was, therefore, conducted to assess the prevalence and associated factors of ectoparasites in the rural communities of northwest Ethiopia.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study design with structured observation was conducted among 1191 randomly selected rural households in northwest Ethiopia in May 2016. Data were collected using structured interviewer administered interview questionnaire and structured observation checklist. Prevalence of human ectoparasites in the rural communities was defined as the presence of one or more lice, fleas, bed bugs, mites, and ticks and the presence of these ectoparasites were observed by trained environmental health experts. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify variables associated with prevalence of ectoparasites on the basis of adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and P values <.05.

Results:

Of a total of 1191 rural households, human or hair lice were observed in one or more of the family members in 186 (15.6%) rural households. Similarly, fleas were observed in more than half, 609 (51.1%) of rural households and bed bugs were observed in 441 (37%) rural households. Furthermore, mites and ticks were reported in 113 (9.5%) and 130 (10.9%) of the households respectively. Accordingly, one or more ectoparasites were observed in 865 of 1191 rural households. The presence of one or more ectoparasites was, therefore, found to be 72.6% (95% CI = 70%-75.1%). The prevalence of ectoparasites was statistically associated with educational status of the female head being not educated (AOR = 1.476, 95% CI = 1.001, 2.177) and absence close supervision by health extension workers (AOR = 2.151, 95% CI = 1.205, 3.843).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of one or more ectoparasites was high in the rural communities of northwest Ethiopia. The high prevalence was associated with education status of the female head and close supervision of households by health extension workers. Disseminating health information about intervention strategies of ectoparasites and closely supervising the rural households need to be considered.
Headphones, Auditory Violence and the Sonic Flooding of Corporeal Space
Authors: Downs Jacob Kingsbury
Published: July 2021

In this article, I develop and redirect Julian Henriques’s model of sonic dominance through examination of accounts of acoustic violence and torture involving headphones. Specifically, I show how auditory experience has been weaponized as an intracorporeal phenomenon, with headphones effecting a sense of sounds invading the interior phenomenological space of the head. By analysing reported cases of sonic violence and torture involving headphones through a composite theoretical lens drawn from the fields of music, sound and body studies, I argue that in saturating the head’s perceived interior with sound, perpetrators of violence perform sonic dominance across two interrelated levels: the subjugation of interiorized auditory space via the notion of flooding, in which attention is directed towards the experience of the body as a vessel for sound; and the resulting manipulation of phenomenological head–mind linkages, with emphasis on the head as a ‘space’ for both sound and thought.