bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of the local twitch response during needling interventions in spinal pain associated with myofascial trigger points: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Sanchez-Infante Jorge , Gómez-Chiguano Guido F , Cleland Joshua A , Arias-Buría José L , Navarro-Santana Marcos J
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To compare the clinical effects of needling interventions eliciting local twitch responses (LTRs) versus needling without eliciting LTRs when applied to muscle trigger points (TrPs) associated with spinal pain of musculoskeletal origin.

Databases and data treatment:

Electronic databases were searched for randomized or non-randomized clinical trials where one group received needling intervention where LTRs were elicited and was compared with another group receiving the same intervention without elicitation of LTRs in spinal pain disorders associated with TrPs. Outcomes included pain intensity, pain-related disability, and pressure pain thresholds. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool or ROBINS-I tool, methodological quality was assessed with the PEDro score, and quality of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach.

Results:

Six trials were included. The application of a needling intervention eliciting LTRs was associated with a significant reduction in pain intensity immediately after treatment (mean difference (MD): −2.03 points, 95% confidence interval (CI): −3.77 to −0.29; standardized MD (SMD): −1.35, 95% CI: −2.32 to −0.38, p = 0.02) when compared to the same needling intervention without elicitation of LTRs. No effect at short-term follow-up (MD: −0.20 points, 95% CI: −1.46 to 1.06, p = 0.75) was observed. No significant differences based on elicitation or non-elicitation of LTRs were found in related disability (SMD: −0.05, 95% CI: −0.41 to 0.30, p = 0.77) or pressure pain thresholds (MD: 23.39 kPa, 95% CI: −13.68 to 60.47, p = 0.22).

Discussion:

Low-level evidence suggests an immediate effect of obtaining LTRs during needling interventions on pain intensity, with no significant effects on related disability or pressure pain sensitivity in spinal pain disorders associated with muscle TrPs.

Registration number:

OSF Registry— https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/5ZX9N
Effects of dry needling on function, hypertonia and quality of life in chronic stroke: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Calvo Sandra , Brandín-de la Cruz Natalia , Jiménez-Sánchez Carolina , Bravo-Esteban Elisabeth , Herrero Pablo
Published: December 2021

Background:

Persons with stroke commonly have impairments associated with a reduction in functionality. Motor impairments are the most prevalent, causing an impact on activities of daily life.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a session of dry needling (DN) applied to the upper extremity muscles on the sensorimotor function, hypertonia, and quality of life of persons with chronic stroke.

Methods:

A randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial was performed. Participants were randomly assigned into an intervention group that received a single session DN in the biceps brachii, brachialis, flexor digitorum superficialis and profundus, extensor digitorum, adductor pollicis and triceps brachii muscles, or into a control group that received the same treatment but with a sham DN intervention. Treatment outcomes included the Fugl–Meyer Assessment Scale for the upper extremity, the Modified Modified Ashworth Scale, and the EuroQol-5D questionnaire. Measurements were carried out before, immediately after, and 14 days after intervention.

Results:

Twenty-three persons participated in the study. Significant differences between groups were observed after the intervention in the total wrist–hand motor score (p = 0.023) and sensorimotor score (p = 0.022), for hypertonia in the elbow extensors both after treatment (p = 0.002) and at follow-up (p = 0.018), and in quality of life at follow-up (p = 0.030).

Conclusions:

A single session of DN improved total wrist–hand motor function and total sensorimotor function in persons with chronic stroke immediately after treatment, as well as quality of life 2 weeks after treatment.

Trial registration number:

NCT03546517 (ClinicalTrials.gov)
The impact of cumulative colorectal cancer screening delays: A simulation study
Authors: Rutter Carolyn M. , Inadomi John M. , Maerzluft Christopher E.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Annual fecal immunochemical tests can reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. However, screening is a multi-step process and most patients do not perfectly adhere to guideline-recommended screening schedules. Our objective was to compare the reduction in colorectal cancer incidence and life-years gained based on US guideline-concordant fecal immunochemical test screening to scenarios with a range of delays.

Method

The Colorectal Cancer Simulated Population model for Incidence and Natural history (CRC-SPIN) microsimulation model was used to estimate the effect of systematic departures from fecal immunochemical test screening guidelines on lifetime screening benefit.

Results

The combined effect of consistent modest delays in screening initiation (1 year), repeated fecal immunochemical test screening (3 months), and receipt of follow-up or surveillance colonoscopy (3 months) resulted in up to 1.3 additional colorectal cancer cases per 10,000, 0.4 additional late-stage colorectal cancer cases per 10,000 and 154.7 fewer life-years gained per 10,000. A 5-year delay in screening initiation had a larger impact on screening effectiveness than consistent small delays in repeated fecal immunochemical test screening or receipt of follow-up colonoscopy after an abnormal fecal immunochemical test. The combined effect of consistent large delays in screening initiation (5 years), repeated fecal immunochemical test screening (6 months), and receipt of follow-up or surveillance colonoscopy (6 months) resulted in up to 3.7 additional colorectal cancer cases per 10,000, 1.5 additional late-stage colorectal cancer cases per 10,000 and 612.3 fewer life-years gained per 10,000.

Conclusions

Systematic delays across the screening process can result in meaningful reductions in colorectal cancer screening effectiveness, especially for longer delays. Screening delays could drive differences in colorectal cancer incidence across patient groups with differential access to screening.
“Humanizing intensive care: A scoping review (HumanIC)”
Authors: Kvande Monica Evelyn , Angel Sanne , Højager Nielsen Anne
Published: December 2021

Significant scientific and technological advances in intensive care have been made. However, patients in the intensive care unit may experience discomfort, loss of control, and surreal experiences. This has generated relevant debates about how to humanize the intensive care units and whether humanization is necessary at all. This paper aimed to explore how humanizing intensive care is described in the literature. A scoping review was performed. Studies published between 01.01.1999 and 02.03.2020 were identified in the CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, and Scopus databases. After removing 185 duplicates, 363 papers were screened by title and abstract. Full-text screening of 116 papers led to the inclusion of 68 papers in the review based on the inclusion criteria; these papers mentioned humanizing or dehumanizing intensive care in the title or abstract. Humanizing care was defined as holistic care, as a general attitude of professionals toward patients and relatives and an organizational ideal encompassing all subjects of the healthcare system. Technology was considered an integral component of intensive care that must be balanced with caring for the patient as a whole and autonomous person. This holistic view of patients and relatives could ameliorate the negative effects of technology. There were geographical differences and the large number of studies from Spain and Brazil reflect the growing interest in humanizing intensive care in these particular countries. In conclusion, a more holistic approach with a greater emphasis on the individual patient, relatives, and social context is the foundation for humanizing intensive care, as reflected in the attitudes of nurses and other healthcare professionals. Demands for mastering technology may dominate nurses’ attention toward patients and relatives; therefore, humanized intensive care requires a holistic attitude from health professionals and organizations toward patients and relatives. Healthcare organizations, society, and regulatory frameworks demanding humanized intensive care may enforce humanized intensive care.
Precarity Before and During the Pandemic: International Student Employment and Personal Finances in Australia
Authors: Hastings Catherine , Ramia Gaby , Wilson Shaun , Mitchell Emma , Morris Alan
Published: December 2021

There is mounting evidence of increased international student financial and work precarity over the last decade in Australia. Yet, there has been a little scholarly analysis of which students are most affected by precarity and its sources. Drawing on two surveys of international students in Australia's two largest cities, conducted before and during the pandemic, we investigate the financial and work vulnerabilities of international students. We demonstrate that vulnerability is related to characteristics which describe particular cohorts of students: being from low-income countries, working class families, seeking a low-level qualification, enrolled in a non-university institution, and being without a scholarship. The concepts of “noncitizenship” and “work precarity” are used to explain how the mechanisms of each characteristic heighten vulnerability, thereby contributing to a broader evidence-base about the causality of international student precarity.
Thermoelectric energy harvesting using vapour chamber coolers for aerospace applications
Authors: Sarris Alexander , Bhatti Bashir , Ciampa Francesco
Published: December 2021

Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) have shown great potentials to supply low-power sensor nodes in aerospace applications due to their relatively small size, adequate output power and reliability. TEGs convert waste heat available at aircraft locations into a usable potential difference. However, TEGs’ performance greatly depends on the use of passive cooling systems such as heatsinks to enhance their energy supply. This paper reports the first proof-of-concept use of vapour chambers coupled to traditional circular pin-fin heatsinks to enhance the output power of TEGs. Vapour chambers are compact and small capillary-driven heat spreaders that incorporate a cavity in their volume containing a working fluid to provide a high effective thermal conductivity. Numerical simulations and experimental tests revealed that the use of vapour chambers provided significant increase of the output power, with a maximum produced power of 28.2 W and a relative difference of 6.27 W against conventional energy scavenging configurations. Results demonstrate the high thermal cooling performance of vapour chambers to efficiently support thermal energy harvesting solutions designed for condition and structural health monitoring.
Assimilation, Integration or Inclusion? A Dialectical Perspective on the Organizational Socialization of Migrants
Authors: Omanović Vedran , Langley Ann
Published: December 2021

Given the increasing importance of migrations around the world, and the challenges that migrants face in entering the labor market, the process of socialization of migrants into organizations deserves more attention from management scholars. Indeed, societal discourses promoting equality and diversity often appear to be in contradiction with the unequal power relations migrants experience on entering the workforce. Drawing on a dialectic perspective and a qualitative meta-synthesis methodology, we show how the practices engaged in by organizations to socialize migrant employees are deeply embedded in and influenced by macro-social contexts that may place migrants at a disadvantage, giving rise to emerging tensions. We examine a range of contingencies that can mitigate the inequalities that migrants experience, and we reveal a variety of dynamic dialectical pathways surrounding migrant socialization practices through which they may be reproduced or transformed depending on the mutual relationships between situated conditions, emerging tensions and human praxes.
Pulmonary Hypertensive Changes Secondary to COVID-19 Pneumonia in a Chronically SARS-CoV-2-Infected Bilateral Lung Explant
Authors: Rohr Joseph M. , Strah Heather , Berkheim David , Siddique Aleem , Radio Stanley J. , Swanson Benjamin J.
Published: December 2021

COVID-19, the syndrome caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has spread throughout the world, causing the death of at least three million people. For the over 81 million who have recovered, however, the long-term effects are only beginning to manifest. We performed a bilateral lung transplant on a 31-year-old male patient for chronic hypoxic respiratory failure, severe pulmonary hypertension and radiographically identified pulmonary fibrosis five months after an acute COVID-19 infection. The explant demonstrated moderate pulmonary vascular remodeling with intimal thickening and medial hypertrophy throughout, consistent with pulmonary hypertension. The parenchyma demonstrated an organizing lung injury in the proliferative phase, with severe fibrosis, histiocytic proliferation, type II pneumocyte hyperplasia, and alveolar loss consistent with known COVID-19 pneumonia complications.

This report highlights a novel histologic finding in severe, chronic COVID-19. Although the findings in acute COVID-19 pneumonia have been well-examined at autopsy, the chronic course of this complex disease is not yet understood. The case presented herein suggests that COVID-induced pulmonary hypertension may become more common as more patients survive severe SARS-CoV-2-related pneumonia. Pulmonologists and pulmonary pathologists should be aware of this possible association and look for the clinical, radiographic, and histologic criteria in the appropriate clinical setting.
Prevalence and Social-Ecological Correlates of Intimate Partner Violence in a Conflict Zone—Evidence From the 2015 Afghanistan Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Alemi Qais , Stempel Carl , Montgomery Susanne , Koga Patrick M. , Smith Valerie , Baek Kelly , Fisher Catherine C. , Malika Nipher
Published: December 2021

This study examined the prevalence and social-ecological correlates of male-to-female intimate partner violence (IPV) in Afghanistan. Using data from the 2015 Afghanistan Demographic and Health Survey, which included 20,793 currently married women, we found that the past-year prevalence of physical IPV was highest (46%), followed by emotional (34%) and sexual forms (6%). Results also showed that the risk of IPV in general was associated with an array of community and societal-, family and relationship-, and person-level factors. Our findings point to potential intervention targets for women in this conflict zone where IPV is a highly pervasive and complex societal challenge.
Support Provided by LGBTI Police Liaison Services: An Analysis of a Survey of LGBTIQ People in Australia
Authors: Dwyer Angela , Bond Christine E. W. , Ball Matthew , Lee Murray , Crofts Thomas
Published: December 2021

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) police liaison programs were established around Australia from the late 1980s onwards to ameliorate discriminatory relationships between LGBTIQ people and police. With specialized training to better understand LGBTIQ issues, police liaison officers can provide support to LGBTIQ people as victims, offenders, or witnesses. Interestingly, very few LGBTIQ people seek support from these officers, even though many know they exist. This paper reports the results of a survey of a sample of LGBTIQ community members across two Australian states (Queensland and New South Wales) that explored why LGBTIQ people seek support from LGBTI police liaison officers. An online questionnaire asked LGBTIQ people about their perceptions of, and experiences with, police generally, and LGBTI police liaison officers specifically. Similar to past research, our analysis primarily found high levels of awareness of liaison officers, but very few participants accessed them. Further, and concerningly, the participants were generally reluctant to seek them out for support. Key implications of our findings for policy and practice development in police and LGBTIQ community services are discussed.
Assessment of serum symmetric dimethylarginine and creatinine concentrations in cats with urethral obstruction
Authors: Wilson Kendall E , Berent Allyson C , Weisse Chick W , Szlosek Donald
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The aims of this study were to evaluate serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and creatinine concentrations in cats with urethral obstruction pre- and post-decompression of the obstruction, and to determine if pre-decompression values were predictive of post-decompression renal function, as measured by SDMA and creatinine.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. Twenty-five client-owned cats with urethral obstruction were hospitalized for decompression of the obstruction. Serum SDMA and creatinine were prospectively assessed at presentation, 24 h post-decompression and 5–20 days post-decompression. Urinalysis and culture were assessed at presentation and at the final follow-up. Exclusion criteria included positive urine culture, reobstruction or failure to obtain required samples.

Results

Mean SDMA concentration dropped by 41.8% from an initial pre-decompression concentration of 17.6 µg/dl to 10.3 µg/dl 24 h post-decompression ( P <0.001). The mean creatinine value dropped by 38.4% from an initial pre-decompression concentration of 2.5 mg/dl to 1.5 mg/dl 24 h post-decompression ( P <0.001). There was no association between SDMA concentration at initial presentation and SDMA concentration 5–20 days after urethral catheterization (Spearman’s ρ = 0.205, P = 0.314). Creatinine concentration upon initial presentation was associated with the 5–20 day values after urethral catheterization (Spearman’s ρ = 0.583, P <0.002). Twenty percent of cases were excluded due to bacterial growth on initial urine culture. SDMA and creatinine concentrations were significantly higher in these cases (median 59 µg/dl and 10.9 mg/dl, respectively) compared with those with negative cultures (median 14 µg/dl and 1.6 mg/dl [ P <0.002 and P <0.001], respectively).

Conclusions and relevance

Both SDMA and creatinine decreased significantly after urethral catheterization, suggesting that renal function post-decompression cannot be predicted by the pre-decompression concentrations of these values.
Pac-Man Method: A New Technique for Nuclear Management Of Posterior Polar Cataract
Authors: Rahman Sharah , Rahman Anisur , Ahmed Jalal , Anwar Ishtiaque , de Sarker Bipul Kumar , Malek Mohammad Ibn Abdul , Pathan Arif Hayat Khan , Mitu Sharifa Zahan , Mahfooz Shahrina
Published: December 2021

Purpose

We introduce an innovative technique, “Pac-Man”, for the nuclear management of posterior polar cataracts and compare it with “Chop in situ” and “Fishbowl” techniques.

Method

A total of 60 eyes from 60 patients were randomly assigned to groups A, B, and C, with 20 eyes in each group. Pac-Man, Chop in situ, and Fishbowl techniques were used for groups A, B, and C. In the Pac-Man method, adequate single trench sculpts, and a right-sided lateral sculpt were performed and cracked. The triangular piece was emulsified, after which the rest of the nucleus looked like a “Pac-Man” cartoon. Techniques were compared by age, visual outcome, Posterior Capsule Rupture (PCR), Cumulative Dissipated Energy (CDE), and time of surgery.

Result

Postoperative BCVA was significantly improved after surgery ( P = 0.0001, paired t-test). Time taken for surgeries were 25 ± 2.57, 30 ± 3.78, 40 ± 3.25 min, the CDE were 10 ± 0.95, 20 ± 1.2, 15 ± 0.48, and the PCR were 0%, 5%, and 10% for group A,B,C respectively. The total number of PCR was 3 out of 60 patients, and the percentage was 5.00%.

Conclusion

The “Pac-Man” method is a recommended technique due to its visual outcome, reduced surgical time, less CDE, and less chance of PCR.
OCT-angiography for the diagnosis of radiation maculopathy in patients treated with proton beam therapy: A 2-year prospective study
Authors: Marin Louis , Toumi Elsa , Caujolle Jean-Pierre , Doyen Jérôme , Martel Arnaud , Nahon-Esteve Sacha , Maschi Célia , Baillif Stephanie
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Radiation maculopathy (RM) is the leading cause of visual acuity (VA) loss after proton beam therapy (PBT) of choroidal melanoma. The aim of this study was to assess the value of optical coherence tomography-angiography (OCT-A) for the diagnosis of RM in patients with choroidal melanoma treated with PBT.

Materials & methods

This 2-year prospective, descriptive, single-center study included patients treated with PBT for choroidal melanoma. VA measurement, retinography, OCT and OCT-A were performed. Vascular density (VD) in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP), peri-foveal anastomotic ring changes and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) enlargement were studied.

Results

Nineteen patients were included in the study. The median baseline melanoma thickness was 5.7 [3.6–8.1] mm. The median melanoma-to-macula distance was 3.5 [2.6–4.6] mm. The earliest signs of RM identified on retinography were hard exudates developing at 12 [12–24] months, followed by retinal hemorrhages at 18 [12–30] months, found in 88.9% and 77.8% of patients respectively. On OCT, the earliest sign was the onset/progression of cystoid macular edema (CME) at 12 [6–12] months, found in 10 patients (52.6%). On OCT-A, 100% of patients presented with a discontinuity of the perifoveal anastomotic ring and a FAZ enlargement after 12 [6–24] months. After 12 months, a VD loss in the SCP by 11.7% and 10.8% compared to baseline, was found in the macular and foveal areas respectively. A significant negative correlation was found between the VA and the VD in the macular SCP (R = −0.43; p = 0.029).

Conclusion

OCT-A is a reliable and effective diagnostic tool for RM in patients with choroidal melanoma treated with PBT.
The Role of Household Flooring on Childhood Diarrhea Among Children 0 to 23 Months of Age in Ethiopia: A Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Study Using a Multi-Level Mixed Effect Analysis
Authors: Sahiledengle Biniyam , Kumie Abera , Atlaw Daniel , Tekalegn Yohannes , Woldeyohannes Demelash , Zenbaba Demisu , Awoke Tadesse
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Household flooring has been associated with diarrhea, but few studies have examined the association between childhood diarrhea and type of household flooring considering the individual and community level characteristics. We aimed to determine if household flooring was associated with childhood diarrhea among children 0 to 23 months of age in Ethiopia.

Methods:

Data from the fourth round of the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) conducted in 2016 is used to carry out the analysis. The EDHS was large, cross-sectional by design and nationally representative. In the current analysis, we included children 0 to 23 months of age (n = 4552) with their mother and 636 community clusters. To get information about the occurrence of diarrhea, mothers/caregivers were asked, “Has (NAME) had diarrhea in the last 2 weeks?” The response to this question was recorded as, “yes” or “no.” A multilevel binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with childhood diarrhea.

Results:

The overall prevalence of diarrhea among children 0 to 23 months of age in Ethiopia was 15.5% (95% CI [confidence interval] 14.4-16.5). No association was found between childhood diarrhea and type of household flooring (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.05, 95% CI 0.59-1.88). The adjusted odds also showed that the age of the child, having an acute respiratory infection (ARI), and size of the child at birth were associated with diarrhea.

Conclusion:

We found no association between childhood diarrhea and the type of household flooring. Further research with strong research design is needed to determine the effect of household flooring on childhood diarrhea.
Age of Onset of Susceptibility to Different Tobacco Products Among Non-Susceptible US Young Adults: Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study Waves 2-4 (2014-2017)
Authors: Pérez Adriana , Bluestein Meagan A. , Kuk Arnold E. , Chen Baojiang , Sterling Kymberle L. , Harrell Melissa B.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Initiation of tobacco products is increasing in young adulthood. This study prospectively estimated the age of onset of susceptibility to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, hookah, smokeless tobacco, and cigarillos among young adults, which is a cognitive precursor to initiation.

Methods

Secondary data analyses of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study, a nationally representative longitudinal cohort study of US adults. Young adults (18-24 years) who were non-susceptible to each tobacco product (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, hookah, smokeless tobacco, and cigarillos) at waves 2 or 3 were followed-up into waves 3-4 to prospectively estimate the age of onset of susceptibility to each tobacco product. Weighted interval-censored survival methods and interval-censored Cox regression models were implemented to estimate the age of onset of susceptibility, and to estimate differences in the hazard function by sex and by race/ethnicity, while controlling for the total number of other tobacco products ever used at their first wave of participation in PATH.

Results

By age 21, 16.5%, 16.0%, 12.6%, 12.4%, and 5.9% of young adults reported onset of susceptibility to hookah, e-cigarettes, cigarillos, cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco, respectively. Among young adults who were non-susceptible to each tobacco product at waves 2 or 3, the highest increase in onset of susceptibility occurred between ages 18 and 19 for cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and hookah, while the highest increase in onset of susceptibility occurs between ages 22 and 23 for cigarillos. Young adult males had increased risk of onset of susceptibility to cigarillos and smokeless tobacco at earlier ages than young adult females. Differences in onset of susceptibility to each tobacco product were also observed by race/ethnicity among young adults.

Conclusions

With the changing landscape of tobacco products, monitoring the age of onset of susceptibility of tobacco product use among non-susceptible young adults longitudinally is critical to prevent initiation. Communication and education campaigns tailored to address differences in susceptibility among young adults by tobacco product and sociodemographic factors will be useful.
A new method of vibration signal denoising based on improved wavelet
Authors: Miao Feng , Zhao Rongzhen
Published: December 2021

Noise cancellation is one of the most successful applications of the wavelet transform. Its basic idea is to compare wavelet decomposition coefficients with the given thresholds and only keep those bigger ones and set those smaller ones to zero and then do wavelet reconstruction with those new coefficients. It is most likely for this method to treat some useful weak components as noise and eliminate them. Based on the cyclostationary property of vibration signals of rotating machines, a novel wavelet noise cancellation method is proposed. A numerical signal and an experimental signal of rubbing fault are used to test and compare the performances of the new method and the conventional wavelet based denoising method provided by MATLAB. The results show that the new noise cancellation method can efficaciously suppress the noise component at all frequency bands and has better denoising performance than the conventional one.
Design and development of aluminum alloy 6061-T6 pressure vessel liner for aerospace applications: A technical brief
Authors: Pramod R , Shanmugam N Siva , Krishnadasan C K , Radhakrishnan G , Thomas Manu
Published: December 2021

This work mainly focuses on designing a novel aluminum alloy 6061-T6 pressure vessel liner intended for use in launch vehicles. Fabrication of custom-made welding fixtures for the assembly of liner parts, namely two hemispherical domes and end boss, is illustrated. The parts of the liner are joined using the cold metal transfer welding process, and the welding trials are performed to arrive at an optimized parametric range. The metallurgical characterization of weld joint reveals the existence of dendritic structures (equiaxed and columnar). Microhardness of base and weld metal was 70 and 65 HV, respectively. The tensile strength of base and weld metal was 290 and 197 MPa, respectively, yielding a joint efficiency of 68%. Finite-element analysis of a uniaxial tensile test was performed to predict the tensile strength and location of the fracture in base and weld metal. The experimental and predicted tensile test results were found to be in good agreement.
Effectiveness of Psychological Interventions to Improve the Mental Well-Being of Parents Who Have Experienced Traumatic Childbirth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Downe Soo , Chua Joelle Yan Xin , Byrne Sofia O. , Fobelets Maaike , Lalor Joan Gabrielle
Published: December 2021

Considering the adverse impact that traumatic childbirth experiences can have on parental mental well-being, studies that have investigated the potential of providing postnatal psychological support for this group of parents require evaluation. This systematic review aimed to examine the effectiveness of psychological interventions at improving the mental well-being of parents who have experienced traumatic childbirth in terms of anxiety, depression, fear of childbirth, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Seven electronic databases were searched from their respective inception dates up to January 2021. Only quantitative studies that reported the effects of psychological interventions on anxiety, depression, fear of childbirth, and/or PTSD symptoms in selective (at risk of traumatic childbirth experience) or indicated (self-defined childbirth experience as traumatic for any reason) populations of parents (mothers and/or fathers) were included. Eight studies were included and meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effect model. All studies were conducted on mothers only, and one study had minimal father involvement. Results showed that psychological interventions were more effective in reducing fear of childbirth and improving PTSD symptoms compared to anxiety and depression. Greater improvement in depression was reported at 3–8 weeks’ follow-up than at immediate post-intervention. Subgroup analyses showed that technology-based interventions were feasible, and indicated interventions were more effective than selective interventions. Conducting future interventions in more geographical regions, engaging and including fathers more actively, incorporating both personalized professional therapy and informal peer support, striving for flexibility and convenience, as well as addressing topics on self-doubt and coping skills can improve current interventions.
Safety and Effectiveness of TEVAR in Native Proximal Landing Zone 2 for Chronic Type B Aortic Dissection in Patients With Genetic Aortic Syndrome
Authors: Eleshra Ahmed , Panuccio Giuseppe , Spanos Konstantinos , Rohlffs Fiona , von Kodolitsch Yskert , Kölbel Tilo
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study is to report the safety and effectiveness of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in a native proximal landing zone (PLZ) 2 for chronic type B aortic dissection (TBAD) patients with genetic aortic syndrome (GAS).

Methods

A retrospective review of a single center database to identify patients with GAS treated with TEVAR in native PLZ 2 for chronic TBAD and thoracic false lumen aneurysm between February 2012 and February 2018 was undertaken.

Results

In total, 31 patients with GAS (24 Marfan syndrome [MFS], 5 Loeys-Dietz syndrome [LDS], and 2 vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome [vEDS]) were treated by endovascular repair. Nineteen patients were treated by TEVAR as index procedures with 8 patients (5 females, mean age = 55, range = 36–79 years old) receiving TEVAR in native PLZ 2. Left subclavian artery (LSA) perfusion was preserved in all 8 patients: by left common carotid artery-LSA bypass in 6 patients, chimney stenting of the LSA in 1 patient, and partial coverage of LSA ostium in 1 patient. Technical success was achieved in all patients (100%). There was no 30 day mortality (0%). The 30 day morbidity (0%) was free from major complications. The median follow-up was 40 months (range = 7–79). One patient died due to non-aortic-related cause. Native PLZ 2 was free from complications in MFS patients (5/8). Two patients with LDS developed type Ia endoleak with aneurysmal progression. One patient was treated by proximal extension with a double inner branched arch stent-graft landing in the replaced ascending aorta. The other one was treated with frozen elephant trunk.

Conclusion

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair in native PLZ 2 was safe and effective with no early or midterm PLZ complications in patients with MFS with chronic TBAD in this limited series. Native PLZ 2 is not safe in patients with LDS and should only be used in emergencies as a bridging to open repair.
Understanding Patients’ and Living Donors’ Kidney Paired Donation Educational Experiences and Recommendations for Improvement
Authors: Pines Rachyl , Iraheta Yaquelin Arevalo , Dahmani Katia A. , Cooper Matthew , Waterman Amy D.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Educating potential kidney patients and living donors about the risks and benefits of kidney paired donation to ensure they make informed decisions is complex. This study aimed to increase understanding of patients’ and donors’ decision-making about donation, the educational content they received, and their recommendations for educational improvements.

Method

We conducted a mixed methods study, including semistructured interviews and quantitative surveys, with 43 participants (25 living donors; 18 kidney recipients).

Findings

Participants reported that the benefits of paired donation motivated them to participate (ie, helping multiple people, receiving a transplant sooner, flexible timing of donation). Although deciding to participate in paired donation was a systematic, logical, and carefully considered process for some. For most, it was a quickly made, often emotion-based decision. Paired donation educational content on different topics varied, with recipients reporting receiving less information than donors about donor protections and processes to ameliorate the challenges faced, such as broken swaps and chains, and delays in matching. Those who faced challenges requested more information about donor protections and support during and after paired donation. Although many acknowledged their transplant coordinators’ helpfulness, participants also recommended being more proactive in learning about kidney paired donation and speaking to former donors and recipients beforehand.

Discussion

Standardized, health literate educational content addressing the gaps and variability in education received may help increase paired donation informed decision-making.
3D Visualization of the Dynamic Bidirectional Talk Between ER/PR and Her2 Pathways
Authors: Lyu Jiahong , Yu Guohua , Zhang Yunyun , Lyu Yan , Zhang Wenfeng , Zhang Jiandi , Tang Fangrong
Published: December 2021

Background: Extensive amounts of archived formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) human tumor tissues are the ultimate resource to investigate signaling network underlying tumorigenesis in human. Yet, their usage is severely limited for lacking of suitable protein techniques. In this study, a quantitative, objective, absolute, and high throughput immunoblot method, quantitative dot blot (QDB), was explored to address this issue by investigating the putative relationship between estrogen receptor (ER)/progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her2) pathways in breast cancer tumorigenesis. Methods: In this descriptive observational retrospective study, ER, PR, Her2, and Ki67 protein levels were measured absolutely and quantitatively in 852 FFPE breast cancer tissues using the QDB method. ER, PR, and Her2 levels were charted on the X, Y, and Z-axes to observe samples distribution in a 3D scatterplot. Results: A “seesaw” relationship between ER/PR and Her2 pathways was observed in ER–PR–Her2 space, characterized by the expression levels of these 3 proteins. Specimens with strong expressions of ER/PR proteins were found spreading along the ER/PR floor while those with strong Her2 expression were found wrapping around the Her2 axis. Those lacking strong expressions of all 3 proteins were found accumulating at the intersection of the ER, PR, and Her2 axes. Few specimens floated in the ER–PR–Her2 space to suggest the lack of co-expression of all 3 proteins simultaneously. Ki67 levels were found to be significantly reduced in specimens spreading in the ER–PR space. Conclusions: The unique distribution of specimens in ER–PR–Her2 space prior to any clinical intervention provided visual support of bidirectional talk between ER/PR and Her2 pathways in breast cancer specimens. Clinical interventions to suppress these 2 pathways alternatively warrant further exploration for breast cancer patients accordingly. Our study also demonstrated that the QDB method is an effective tool to analyze archived FFPE cancer specimens in biomedical research.
Emotion Regulation Choice in Internet Addiction: Less Reappraisal, Lower Frontal Alpha Asymmetry
Authors: Yan Xinyu , Gao Wei , Yang Jiemin , Yuan Jiajin
Published: December 2021

Individuals with internet addiction (IA) show difficulties in emotion regulation. However, they could effectively employ emotion regulation strategies when instructed. We speculate that this discrepancy might be caused by maladaptive emotion regulation choices. Recent studies indicated that decreased activity of the left frontal cortex could be a neural marker of reappraisal use. To address this problem, individuals with IA ( n = 17, IA group) and healthy individuals ( n = 23, healthy control [HC] group) were required to choose an emotion regulation strategy between reappraisal and distraction to regulate their emotions varying in emotional intensity and valence. We also compared the resting state frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) of these 2 groups. The results replicated more choices of reappraisal in low- versus high-intensity emotional contexts across groups. More importantly, the IA group chose reappraisal less frequently compared with the HC group, irrespective of emotional intensity. Furthermore, we found individuals with IA have lower FAA than healthy controls, and FAA shows a positive correlation with the use of reappraisal. These findings suggest that IA alters individuals’ patterns of emotion regulation choice and impairs frontal activities, causing difficulties in emotion regulation.
Emotional Modulation of Response Inhibition in Adolescents During Acute Suicidal Crisis: Event-Related Potentials in an Emotional Go/NoGo Task
Authors: Porteous Meggan , Tavakoli Paniz , Campbell Kenneth , Dale Allyson , Boafo Addo , Robillard Rebecca
Published: December 2021

Objectives. Suicide is the second leading cause of adolescent deaths and may be linked to difficulties with inhibitory and emotional processing. This study assessed the neural correlates of cognitive inhibition during emotional processing in adolescents hospitalized for a suicidal crisis. Methods. Event-related potentials were recorded during an emotional Go/NoGo task in 12 adolescents who attempted suicide and 12 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results. Compared to the control group, the suicidal group showed significantly reduced positivity at the time of the P3d (difference waveform reflecting NoGo minus Go trials) in response to happy and neutral, but not sad stimuli. For happy stimuli, this group difference was restricted to the right hemisphere. Further analyses indicated that the suicidal group had a reversed pattern of P3 amplitude in response to inhibition, with lower amplitudes in the NoGo compared to the Go conditions. Suicidal symptoms severity strongly correlated with lower amplitude of the P3d in response to neutral faces. Conclusions. These findings provide more insight into inhibition difficulties in adolescents with acute suicidal risk. Interactions between emotional and inhibition processing should be considered when treating acutely suicidal youths.
A new approach to determining the constructive balance for the design of customised patterns of men garments
Authors: Avadanei Manuela , Olaru Sabina , Dulgheriu Ionut , Ionesi Dorin , Loghin Emil
Published: December 2021

The objective of this study was to develop a new method of designing ergonomically shaped men’s jackets that perfectly adapt to the customer’s body shape and style (i.e. custom made jackets). The study included 10 adult subjects who prefer to wear formal jackets to work. These subjects underwent 3D scans, and the images were used to execute the study objective. The constructive balance values of men’s jacket patterns were determined by considering the characteristics of the subject’s torso and preferred style. The longitudinal contours of the torso were described by parabolic equations, which were solved with the Gauss method. The obtained value of the constructive balance (1.5 ÷ 3 cm) was used to design jackets using a particular module of Gemini CADs, which allows the mathematical relations between the positions of specific points on the contour of a men’s jacket to be expressed. The pieces are designed in Gemini’s geometric layer. The designer can establish the mathematical relations based on his/her pattern-making competencies and human body and garment evaluation results. In a 3D virtual environment (Lectra-Modaris 3D), the customer’s avatars were dressed with the same jacket model but with different bust lines and various widths on the lateral side. The bust line level was established by using the backside length (measured from the seven-vertebra until the armpit level) and an allowance value, which was established after the human body backside curvature, garment silhouette, number of layers, etc. were analysed. Two variants of the jacket model were designed: a regular- and a medium-fit at the bust level (the value of the constructive bust allowance was 7 ÷ 10 cm). The garment position on the body was evaluated by studying its relative displacement when the avatar performed regular movements (moving his upper limbs). Thirteen cases were considered significant and used to analyse the jacket hemline relative displacement (relative to its horizontal position). These cases were analysed with factorial programming and a rotatable compound central programme with two independent variables. The best shape, size and position of the jacket on the virtual body were determined for the following situation: the value of the backside allowance (longitudinal direction) was between 1.6 and 4 cm, and the width of the jacket on the lateral side was calculated with the percentage of the constructive bust allowance ranging from 49% to 51%. With these parameters, the garment appears to fit the body well.
Chronic subdural hematoma recurrence due to contralateral neovascularization following middle meningeal artery embolization
Authors: Hubbard Zachary S , Al Kasab Sami , Porto Guilherme B , Spiotta Alejandro
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most commonly encountered neurosurgical diseases. Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) is a technique for the management of CSDH that has elicited promising results. Despite the encouraging results of MMAE, recurrence does occur. One uncommon mechanism for recurrence of CSDH is by means of neovascularization of the contralateral middle meningeal artery (MMA). We describe two cases of CSDH recurrence by means of contralateral middle meningeal artery neovascularization treated with contralateral MMAE.

Methods

We identified two cases of recurrent subdural hematoma secondary to neovascularization following treatment with contralateral MMAE.

Results

Two patients initially treated with MMAE were identified with CSDH recurrence secondary to contralateral MMA neovascularization. There was no traumatic or coagulopathic contribution to CSDH recurrence. In both cases, patients underwent contralateral MMAE. Both patients were neurologically intact with radiographic improvement of CSDH at follow up.

Conclusions

Re-accumulation of SDH following MMAE by means of contralateral MMA neovascularization is a rare subtype of subdural hematoma (SDH) recurrence following MMAE. Within the context of re-accumulation of SDH following MMAE, catheter angiography is an important diagnostic investigation to elucidate the etiology of the recurrence. Furthermore, when angiography reveals neovascularization of the contralateral MMA, embolization of the contralateral MMA achieves good clinical and radiographic result.
Experience of Conducting Sensitive Qualitative Research as a Cultural Outsider: Formulation of a Guide for Reflexivity
Authors: Joseph Friday I. , Earland Jane , Ahmed Maryam A.
Published: December 2021

Studies conducted by outsider researchers, who do not share the participants’ culture, language or other traits, are often complex. The positionalities of participants are rarely considered in qualitative research literature but their influence defines how they engage with the researchers and their research. There is little within the literature specifically written for novice qualitative researchers working as an outsider. In this article, the experience of conducting research on breastfeeding in Nigeria with Hausa–Fulani Muslim women has been used to reflect upon the challenges of researching as an outsider. Drawing upon this work, a guide has been developed for researchers working with a group from a different cultural, ethnic or socioeconomic background to their own. The guide includes social identity mapping of both researcher and participants, a consideration of the sensitivity, vulnerability and cultural identity lenses through which the identity of the researcher, participants, and context intersect to influence the study, and reflexive questions. Considering these questions before conducting a study can help researchers to anticipate and proactively develop mitigation strategies to address common methodological and ethical dilemmas they may encounter.
Development of control strategy for fast idling condition of diesel engine based on target torque
Authors: Jian Jiesong , Lin Xuedong , Ren Yuanchun , Zhang Yingchao , Shen Chun , Zhang Chengchun
Published: December 2021

This article puts forward the concept of fast idling condition. The comparative experiments of idling and fast idling warming up engine show that: during cold start, the warm-up of fast idling condition whose maximum speed is 1350 r/min is the most fuel-efficient, fuel-saving about 4.5%, time-saving about 32.5%; at normal temperature, warming up engine of fast idling condition does not save fuel. The warm-up experiments of fast idling condition that accelerations are different in the descent phase show that when the engine is cold, the smaller the acceleration in the descent phase of fast idling condition is, the more time and fuel are saved; at normal temperature, the bigger the acceleration in the descent phase of fast idling condition is, the better the fuel economy is. Therefore, it is inferred that the engine should be warmed up under fast idling condition when the engine is cold and idling condition is used to warm up engine at normal temperature. To sum up, when the engine is cold, the engine should be warmed up under the fast idling condition whose maximum speed is 1350 r/min; at normal temperature, it should be warmed up in idling condition to save fuel.