bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perivascular Adipose Tissue Is a Major Source of Nitric Oxide in Saphenous Vein Grafts Harvested via the No‐Touch Technique
Authors: Saito Toshiro , Kurazumi Hiroshi , Suzuki Ryo , Matsunaga Kazumasa , Tsubone Sarii , Lv Bochao , Kobayashi Sei , Nagase Takashi , Mizoguchi Takahiro , Samura Makoto , Suehiro Kotaro , Harada Takasuke , Morikage Noriyasu , Mikamo Akihito , Hamano Kimikazu
Published: January 2022

Background

Saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) are broadly used in coronary artery bypass grafting despite their inferior patency compared with arterial grafts. Recently, the no‐touch technique (NT), in which an SVG is harvested with a pedicle of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) without conduit distension, was shown to improve long‐term patency compared with conventional preparation (CV), wherein outer tissue is removed with distension. The NT was also reportedly associated with reduced atherosclerosis. Although endothelial damage provoked by conventional distension may underlie poor patency when CV is performed, the precise mechanisms underlying the salutary effects of the NT have been unclear.

Methods and Results

Residual SVGs prepared with CV (CV‐SVGs) or NT (NT‐SVGs) were obtained during coronary artery bypass grafting. Nitric oxide (NO
2
−
/NO
3
−
(NO
x
)) levels after 24 hours of tissue culture were quantified. The protein expression and localization were analyzed. The isometric force of SVG strips was measured. NT‐SVGs showed superior NO
x
production to CV‐SVGs. PVAT generated the majority of NO
x
in NT‐SVGs. PVAT highly expressed arginosuccinate synthase 1, a rate‐limiting enzyme in the molecular circuit for NO synthesis, thereby continuously providing the substrate for NO. A substantial level of endothelial NO synthase was also expressed in PVAT. Pharmacological inhibition of arginosuccinate synthase 1 or endothelial NO synthase significantly suppressed the NO
x
production in NT‐SVGs. PVAT induced vasorelaxation through NO production, even in the endothelium‐denuded SVG strips.

Conclusions

Preserving PVAT was predominantly involved in the superior NO
x
production in NT‐SVGs. Since NO plays crucial roles in suppressing atherosclerosis, this mechanism may greatly contribute to the excellent patency in NT‐SVGs.
Description of two new species of goby-associated snapping shrimps from the tropical western Pacific (Decapoda: Alpheidae: Alpheus)
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR
Published: January 2022

Two new snapping shrimps associated with gobies are described from the tropical waters of the western Pacific. Alpheus thompsoni sp. nov. is described based on a single adult female from Madang, Papua New Guinea. Alpheus sciolii sp. nov. is described based on several specimens of both sexes from the Solomon Islands, Australia and Vietnam. Both species are part of a larger species complex, which also includes A. djeddensis Coutière, 1897, A. djiboutensis De Man, 1909, A. bellulus Miya & Miyake, 1969, A. macellarius Chace, 1988, A. fenneri Bruce, 1994 and A. mannarensis Purushothaman, Abhilash, Kumar & Lal, 2021, but can be distinguished from each of them by a combination of morphological characters, and from the latter four species also by the very different colour patterns.
Three new species of the spider genus Pimoa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 (Araneae, Pimoidae) from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of China
Authors: IRFAN MUHAMMAD , WANG LU-YU , ZHAO JINGXIA , ZHANG ZHI-SHENG
Published: January 2022

Three new species of the spider genus Pimoa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 are described: P. pingwuensis n. sp. (♂♀) and P. yajiangensis n. sp. (♀) from Sichuan and P. zekogensis n. sp. (♂) from Qinghai. These new species are distinguished from other known Pimoa species by genital characters as well as by DNA barcodes. Detailed descriptions, photographs of genital characters and somatic features, a distribution map, comparisons to closely related species and DNA barcodes of the new species are presented. Illustrations of new species are provided and their phylogenetic relationships within the genus Pimoa are also discussed.
Taxonomic notes on the predatory mite genus Proparholaspulus Ishikawa, 1980 and the first description of the male of Proparholaspulus ishikawai Liang & Hu, 1993 (Acari: Parholaspididae)
Authors: LIU KAI , XIE LIXIA , LU WENZHI , YAN YI
Published: January 2022

This study provides the first description of the male of Proparholaspulus ishikawai Liang & Hu, 1993, on the basis of specimens from the south of China. The leg chaetotaxy of Proparholaspulus is described for the first time. A key for all recognisable species of Proparholaspulus is provided.
Monthly Weather Review at 150 Years: Its History, Impact, and Legacy
Authors: Schultz David M. , Potter Sean
Published: January 2022

Monthly Weather Review, one of the oldest continuously published meteorological journals in the world, publishes its 150th volume this year. In January 1873, the U.S. War Department’s Army Signal Service began producing this monthly report summarizing weather across the United States. Its first issue consisted of a one-page narrative of weather conditions and storms and one chart depicting tracks of low pressure centers during that month. In 1891, Monthly Weather Review continued as a government publication with the transfer of the nation’s weather service from the military to the newly established U.S. Weather Bureau. Over time and sometimes erratically, it grew into a scientific journal. In 1974, Monthly Weather Review was transferred to the American Meteorological Society, who continues to publish it to this day (although a 2003 proposal might have ended it). This Historical Review discusses some of the journal’s history and impact, as well as its legacy. This review also compiles for the first time a complete list of Monthly Weather Review editors. The research published within Monthly Weather Review has included highly cited, ground-breaking articles on weather and climate phenomena (e.g., extratropical and tropical cyclones, El Niño–Southern Oscillation, Madden–Julian oscillation), general circulation modeling, and numerical weather prediction. The data published in the early issues have been used—and continue to be used to this day—for a variety of applied research and historical analysis purposes. The composition and content of Monthly Weather Review have changed over the past century and a half, continuing to evolve with the modern publishing landscape, with color figures at no additional cost, open-access articles, open data, and, in the near future, embedded figure animations.
The preservation of synovial fluid using dimethyl sulfoxide
Authors: Pavic Katrina , McGill Vicki , D’Souza Mario , McGill Neil
Published: January 2022

Background

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Quality Assurance Programs runs a Quality Assurance Program for the assessment of synovial fluid crystals. It provides aliquots of synovial fluid to various laboratories. The quality of specimens can deteriorate prior to being examined. We aimed to assess whether the addition of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to synovial fluid specimens helps maintain cellular morphology.

Methods

Synovial fluid specimens were obtained from 15 patients. Each specimen was aliquoted into 24 samples, with half having DMSO added at a concentration of 10%. For each specimen, six samples containing DMSO and six samples not containing DMSO were stored at−80°C and room temperature. Samples from each group were examined at 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 weeks. Comparative Analysis: For each specimen, the final remaining aliquoted samples containing DMSO and not containing DMSO, which were stored at−80°C, were directly compared. Quantitative Analysis: A system for grading cellular morphology and assessing for artefacts and cellular clumping was applied by two independent assessors.

Results

Comparative Analysis: A significant difference was found between samples containing DMSO and not containing DMSO which were stored at −80°C ( p = .000), in favour of those containing DMSO. Quantitative Analysis: Regarding the combined findings of Assessors 1 and 2 and the grading of cellular morphology, a significant difference was found according to “groups” ( p = .000), in favour of those containing DMSO and stored at−80°C.

Conclusions

DMSO contributes to the maintenance of cellular morphology in synovial fluid when stored in frozen conditions.
Pharmacy Resident Perspectives on the Layered Learning Practice Model
Authors: Dang Nathan V. , Pon Tiffany K. , Hellier Yvette M.
Published: January 2022

Objective: To describe pharmacy resident perspectives on the layered learning practice model (LLPM) at large academic medical centers in the United States and identify the types of training residents receive to prepare for the LLPM. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, mixed methods study that surveyed pharmacy residents completing training at large, academic medical centers on their perspectives of the LLPM. Residents with at least 4 weeks of precepting experience were eligible to complete an online survey. Descriptive statistics were generated for demographic and Likert data while themes were identified from narrative free responses. Results: Twenty-seven resident responses from 10 institutions were included. Likert data showed generally positive perspectives toward overall experience with the LLPM and perceived LLPM impact on clinical knowledge and professional practice, with 100.0% of respondents agreeing they enjoyed precepting under the LLPM. However, 44.4% also agreed that precepting was stressful. LLPM impact on resident behavior received positive to neutral responses; 63.0% neither agreed nor disagreed that the LLPM changed their approach to patient care. Written comments revealed themes such as sources of stress within the LLPM, increased depth of learning, improved comprehensive patient care, and improved professional growth. The most common forms of LLPM training occurred through preceptor and student evaluations (73.1% and 61.5%, respectively) and orientation (50.0%). Conclusion: These findings identified a variety of resident perspectives on the LLPM ranging from positive to negative and revealed possible areas of improvement related to LLPM implementation. Residency programs may consider exploring stressors on the resident role in the LLPM to better structure resident precepting training and maximize their clinical learning experience.
Narrative Review: Addressing Covid-19 Vaccine Concerns in Special and Vulnerable Populations
Authors: Owusu Kent A. , Effendi Muhammad K. , Thompson Bastin Melissa L. , Tirmizi Samad , Lat Ishaq , Ammar Mahmoud A.
Published: January 2022

Public health advocates and healthcare professionals (HCPs) have been challenged with vaccine hesitancy and addressing misinformation. In order for HCPs and pharmacists, in particular, to serve as effective stewards of COVID-19 vaccine science in the interest of the public good, it is imperative for HCPs to appreciate the various factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy and vaccine distrust. A PubMed search was performed and relevant articles on COVID-19 vaccine in populations of interest were included. Information from health agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as established professional health societies was incorporated for guidance. This review focuses on COVID-19 vaccine concerns in the populations of children, pregnancy and lactation, immunocompromised, and religious and ethnic disparities. We also discuss post emergency use authorization experience with respect to vaccine safety including annotations on Guillain-Barré Syndrome, myocarditis and pericarditis, and thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome.
Consensus Statement on Future Directions for the Behavioral and Social Sciences in Oral Health
Authors: McNeil D.W. , Randall C.L. , Baker S. , Borrelli B. , Burgette J.M. , Gibson B. , Heaton L.J. , Kitsaras G. , McGrath C. , Newton J.T.
Published: January 2022

The behavioral and social sciences are central to understanding and addressing oral and craniofacial health, diseases, and conditions. With both basic and applied approaches, behavioral and social sciences are relevant to every discipline in dentistry and all dental, oral, and craniofacial sciences, as well as oral health promotion programs and health care delivery. Key to understanding multilevel, interacting influences on oral health behavior and outcomes, the behavioral and social sciences focus on individuals, families, groups, cultures, systems, societies, regions, and nations. Uniquely positioned to highlight the importance of racial, cultural, and other equity in oral health, the behavioral and social sciences necessitate a focus on both individuals and groups, societal reactions to them related to power, and environmental and other contextual factors. Presented here is a consensus statement that was produced through an iterative feedback process. The statement reflects the current state of knowledge in the behavioral and social oral health sciences and identifies future directions for the field, focusing on 4 key areas: behavioral and social theories and mechanisms related to oral health, use of multiple and novel methodologies in social and behavioral research and practice related to oral health, development and testing of behavioral and social interventions to promote oral health, and dissemination and implementation research for oral health. This statement was endorsed by over 400 individuals and groups from around the world and representing numerous disciplines in oral health and the behavioral and social sciences. Having reached consensus, action is needed to advance and further integrate and translate behavioral and social sciences into oral health research, oral health promotion and health care, and the training of those working to ensure oral health for all.
Experiences of precariousness and exploitation of Romanian transnational live-in care workers in Austria
Authors: Hopfgartner Lisa , Seubert Christian , Sprenger Franziska , Glaser Jürgen
Published: January 2022

Based on conceptualizations of a continuum of exploitation to examine phenomena related to precariousness and modern slavery, this article examined Romanian transnational live-in care workers’ job perceptions based on thematic analysis of qualitative interviews. As a framework, we adopted a five-dimensional concept of work-related precariousness, comprising (1) reproductive–material, (2) social–communicative, (3) legal–institutional (participation), (4) status and recognition, and (5) meaningful–subject-related aspects. While interviewees reported job satisfaction, they gave many accounts of unfair or exploitative treatment. Prime aspects of exploitation included low wages, extensive working hours and insecure self-employment, being tricked to work without remuneration, being urged to engage in work beyond care, being withheld food and sanitation, inadequate training, low status and recognition, and fulfilling excessive demands due to a strong sense of commitment. We align our findings with the literature to identify urgent fields of action for improving working conditions in live-in care.
‘We’re in the coal business’: Maintaining fossil fuel hegemony in the face of climate change
Authors: Wright Christopher , Irwin Randi , Nyberg Daniel , Bowden Vanessa
Published: January 2022

Despite the worsening climate crisis and market shifts towards decarbonization, Australia remains heavily invested in carbon-intensive activities. As one of the world's largest exporters of coal and gas, Australian political economy has been dominated over the last several decades by fossil fuel expansionism. In this article, we explore how Australian corporate and political elites have defended the continuation of fossil fuel extraction and use in the face of calls for a transition to a low-carbon energy future. Through an analysis of public statements by industry associations, corporate leaders, politicians and trade union officials, we identify how these actors have constructed a hegemonic temporal narrative stressing the historical importance of fossil fuels and that a transition to renewable energy represents a threat to Australia's future. Our analysis contributes to the growing literature within the field of industrial relations attending to the complex industrial dynamics underlying the maintenance of fossil fuel hegemony. We also contribute to recent discussions on hegemony by demonstrating the importance of temporality in linking diverse actors together in defending hegemony. Finally, we highlight the critical importance of corporate power in fundamentally shaping climate and energy politics.
A Framework for Governance Capacity: A Broad Perspective on Steering Efforts in Society
Authors: van Popering-Verkerk Jitske , Molenveld Astrid , Duijn Michael , van Leeuwen Corniel , van Buuren Arwin
Published: January 2022

In the network society, the capacity to deal with societal issues is spread among interacting actors in governance networks. Knowledge about this capacity, often called “governance capacity,” is still fragmented and quite incoherent. The aim of this study is therefore to gain an integrated understanding of governance capacity. To do this, we conducted a literature review and organized focus groups. This resulted in the selection of five elements of governance capacity: (1) collective action, (2) coordination, (3) resilience, (4) learning, and (5) resources. We used these elements to form the first contours of a governance capacity framework.
The Relationships of Divorced Grandparents with Their Grandchildren
Authors: Even-Zohar Ahuva
Published: January 2022

In recent years, divorce at a later age has increased in Israel as well as in other developed countries, and there are more grandparents who go through a divorce. The purpose of this study was to examine the meaning of divorced grandparents’ relationship with their grandchildren. Employing a qualitative methodology, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 divorced Israeli grandparents aged 54–81. Analysis of the interviews identified several themes: Informing the grandchildren about the divorce and their response; the effect of the relationships between the divorced grandparents on the grandchildren’s perception of the divorce; the effect of the relationship with the parents' generation on relations between grandparents and grandchildren; the relationship with the grandchildren. The results show that grandparents who experience divorce continue to be involved in their grandchildren's life, although some changes can be seen following the divorce process.
Antisense Oligonucleotide-Related Macrovesicular Vacuolation of Hippocampal Neurons in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Lamb Martin , Engelhardt Jeffery A. , Grubor Branka , Meier William A. , Magee Tom F. , Henry Scott P. , Fikes James D.
Published: January 2022

2′-methoxyethyl (MOE) antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) tested in multidose intrathecal nonhuman primate (NHP) toxicity studies have consistently revealed the presence of single large vacuoles in pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus in the absence of any cellular response. Termed “macrovesicular,” these vacuoles were characterized by immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy which showed that these vacuoles are dilated lysosomes in neurons containing accumulated ASO. Additionally, two NHP studies were conducted to investigate the role of tissue fixation on their histogenesis. In Fixation Study 1, 6 doses of 5 mg 2′-MOE ASO with a full phosphorothioate backbone were administered by lumbar puncture over 5 weeks; in Fixation Study 2, 5 doses of 35 mg 2′-MOE ASO with a mixed phosphorothioate/phosphodiester backbone were administered over 12 weeks. At necropsy in each study, brain slices were either immersion fixed in neutral buffered 10% formalin or Carnoy’s fixative; frozen at −80 °C; or perfusion fixed with modified Karnovsky’s fixative. Fixed samples were processed to paraffin, sectioned, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and compared with H&E cryosections prepared from the frozen tissue of the same brain. The presence of vacuoles in fixed brain tissue but never in fresh frozen tissue showed that they arose during postmortem tissue fixation, and as such represent a processing artifact that is not relevant to human safety assessment of intrathecally administered 2′-MOE ASOs.
Computer-Mediated Corrective Feedback to Improve L2 Writing Skills: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mohsen Mohammed Ali
Published: January 2022

Written corrective feedback for improving L2 writing skills has been a debatable issue for more than two decades. The aims of this meta-analysis are to (1) provide a quantitative measure of the effect of computer-generated written feedback for improving L2 writing skills and (2) verify how moderators (i.e., adopted technology, task types, and learners’ language proficiency) mitigate the effectiveness of corrective feedback provided by computer technology for developing the L2 students’ writing fluency and accuracy. A comprehensive search was performed to collect the population of computer-mediated corrective feedback (CMCF) studies. The effect sizes were calculated for 14 primary studies with L2 participants ( N = 1220). The findings indicate a large overall effect of CMCF ( d = 1.21). A medium overall effect was found in using automated writing evaluation (AWE) technology for writing skills, whereas a large effect size was determined in using non-AWE technology. The results further indicate a large overall effect in using CMCF for both writing fluency and accuracy. As for the proficiency level of moderators, the results indicate a large overall effect in using CMCF among beginners and intermediate learners, whereas the overall effect is small among advanced learners. Limitations and recommendations for future studies are also raised in this study.
Presentation at the Canadian Association of Radiologists Annual General Meeting Is Associated With Higher Likelihood of Publication of Canadian Radiology Resident Research Day Presentations
Authors: Matuszczak Martin , Melendez Sarah , Leswick David A.
Published: January 2022

Objective: Determine how many radiology resident research day projects are presented at the Canadian Association of Radiologists Annual Scientific Meeting (CAR ASM) and if presentation at the CAR ASM is associated with increased rates of publication. Methods: A database of radiology resident presentations from 2012 to 2017 research days at seven Canadian radiology programs was utilized. Each presenting resident was searched for in 2011–2019 CAR ASM books of abstracts to identify all CAR ASM presentations both related to and separate from their research day projects. These presentations were matched with resident research day presentations and their publication status. Descriptive statistical analysis and calculation of relative risk (RR) between publication of research day projects and presentation at CAR was performed. Results: 208 residents presented 288 projects at internal research days. 93 of the 208 residents had a total of 195 presentations at CAR (mean .94 +/− 1.91 SD). 36 of the 288 (13%) research day projects were presented at a CAR ASM, of which 18/36 (50%) were published. 83 of the 252 (32%) research day projects not presented at CAR were published. CAR ASM presentation of a research day project was associated with an increased rate of publication (RR 1.537 P=.0396). There was no significant association between research day project publication and unrelated CAR ASM presentations (P=.275). Most research day projects both presented at CAR ASM and published (56%) were in the Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal. Conclusion: CAR ASM presentation of research day projects is associated with an increased rate of publication.
Characteristics and risk factors of retinal vasculopathy in antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Xie Zhijuan , Li Hui , Qi Wanting , Li Jing , Wu Chanyuan , Hu Chaojun , Jiang Nan , Wang Qian , Tian Xinping , Li Mengtao , Zhao Jiuliang , Sui Ruifang , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: January 2022

Background

Retinal vasculopathy including retinal artery occlusion (RAO) or retinal vein occlusion (RVO) was recently found to occur more frequently in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) patients than non-APS patients. This study aims to investigate the clinical manifestation and risk factors of retinal vasculopathy among APS patients.

Methods

In this single-center prospective cohort study, we evaluated APS patients with or without retinal vasculopathy during 2018–2020 at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Clinical variables were compared, and a logistical regression model was built to explore risk factors. Hierarchical cluster analysis using Euclidean distances was applied to identify clusters of variables.

Results

A total of 310 APS patients (67.4% female, mean age 38.1 years) were included, of whom 18 (5.8%) were diagnosed with retinal vasculopathy (9 with RVO and 9 with RAO). No significant differences were found among most demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, or antibody profiles. APS-related heart valve disease (odds ratio OR 13.66, 95% confidence interval CI 4.55–40.98), APS nephropathy (OR 12.77, 95% CI 4.04–40.35), and thrombocytopenia (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.01–6.89) were predictive of retinal vasculopathy. APS-related heart valve disease and nephropathy were also found to be statistically significant predictors in multivariate logistical regression analysis. Non-criteria manifestations were aggregated with retinal vasculopathy from a cluster analysis of variables.

Conclusion

Patients with APS-related heart valve disease and nephropathy suffered a higher risk of retinal vasculopathy. The underlying mechanisms of aPL-associated retinal vasculopathy may involve thrombotic microangiopathy, leading to poor prognosis and therapeutic changes.
Electroacupuncture alleviates anxiety and modulates amygdala CRH/CRHR1 signaling in single prolonged stress mice
Authors: Zhu Jing , Wang Chang , wang Yu , Guo Chunxia , Lu Pingping , Mou Fangfang , Shao Shuijin
Published: January 2022

Background:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety-related psychiatric disorder, manifesting high comorbidity with anxiety disorders. Its underlying neurobiological mechanisms have been associated with hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction and stress hormones. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is a primary stress hormone, expressed in the hypothalamus and amygdala. Electroacupuncture (EA) can improve mood disorders, but its mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to observe the effect of EA on PTSD and explore the related mechanisms.

Methods:

We used single prolonged stress (SPS) mice to establish a PTSD model, and EA was performed after SPS or 7 days later for a week. Then we observed their fear and anxiety-like behavior through cue-induced fear condition tests, open field test and the elevated zero maze. CRH and CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1) protein levels in the amygdala were measured in SPS mice after EA intervention.

Results:

We found that EA at ST36 and GV20 improved fear and anxiety behavior in SPS mice. The amygdala CRH and CRHR1 protein levels increased in the SPS mice, and this effect was reversed by the EA intervention. CRHR1 inhibition by the CRHR1 antagonist NBI 27914 alleviated anxiety behavior in SPS mice.

Conclusion:

CRH/CRHR1 signaling in the amygdala may contribute to the anxiolytic effect of EA in SPS mice.
Labial Vestibular Flap Closure of the Cleft Palate Is Advantageous for Maxillary Development
Authors: Fujimoto Yukari , Tanaka Susumu , Otsuki Koichi , Yamanishi Tadashi , Isomura Emiko , Yokota Yusuke , Kogo Mikihiko
Published: January 2022

Objective: Using labial vestibular flap was performed to close the primary alveolar and hard palate cleft at the second stage of early 2-stage closure surgery for unilateral cleft lip and palate for minimizing the damage to the maxillary periosteum. We analyzed maxillary development to clarify the influence of cleft palate surgery. Design: Retrospective longitudinal study in 5 years after primary palatal closure. Setting: Institutional study Patients: Study subjects included 214 patients with nonsyndromic complete unilateral cleft lip and palate who were consecutively treated in our clinic. Main Outcome: We used a 3D dental model scanner to assess maxillary development in patients aged 3 months to 5 years after using either the conventional pushback method (PB) (51 cases) or 2-stage closure (Local palatal flap closure: LF [67 cases] and Labial vestibular flap closure: VF [96 cases]). Results: Comparing the measurement results, the major axis of maxilla, width, intercanine distance, and intermolar distance was significantly larger in the LF group compared to the PB group. After the age of 3, the cleft side of VF group had grown significantly to compare with LF group in width. It was also confirmed that the inserted labial mucosal flap itself grew. Enlargement of the labial mucosal flap was observed at all sites except the canine. Conclusion: Good maxillary growth occurred in the following order: VF groups > LF group > PB group. Poor growth was correlated with the extent of periosteal damage during surgery and the degree of postoperative bone surface exposure.
Parental Satisfaction from Telemedicine in the Follow-up of Children Operated for Craniosynostosis during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kilipiris Evangelos G. , Horn Frantisek , Kolnikova Miroslava , Ochoa Jose Vallejo , Matuskova Olga , Jelovac Drago , Stebel Adam
Published: January 2022

Objective

The current study aimed to evaluate the satisfaction level of parents from telemedicine use in the long-term follow-up of children operated for craniosynostosis during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

A cross-sectional 9-question survey analysis using Qualtrics survey software.

Setting

An institutional study carried out at a national, tertiary level academic center in the Slovak Republic.

Patients

All patients operated for non-syndromic and syndromic craniosynostosis in our department, who participated in the virtual postoperative follow-up consultations from March 23, 2020, through July 2, 2021, were included in our series. They were enrolled 498 patients, with the parents of 256 children being responding to the survey.

Interventions

The survey remained open until July 16, 2021, two weeks after the last virtual consultations. It was delivered to the parents by e-mail to generate closed 5-point Likert scale responses.

Results

Overall, 72.3% of parents were satisfied with the telemedicine program, and 67.2% found it convenient. Collectively, 89.1% reported that the received instructions were helpful to them. However, only 18.7% of them answered that they would prefer telemedicine consultations in the future.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed a high satisfaction from the parents during the virtual follow-up of children operated for craniosynostosis. However, despite their positive experience with telemedicine, the vast majority of parents stated that they would prefer in-person visits in the future.
Experiencing-With Data: Exploring Posthuman Creativity Through Rhizomatic Empathy
Authors: Vagg Julia
Published: January 2022

Posthuman theorizations of creativity direct attention to the material, affective, relational happenings as they emerge between networks of more-than-human bodies in interaction. This necessitates a rethinking of how creativity research is conducted, including the kinds of data collected and how they are analyzed. Drawing on two case studies exploring the relationship between empathy and creativity in theater devising workshops, this article outlines how a multimodal research design combined with an empathic approach to diffractive analysis provides the opportunity to look beyond the linguistic and textual to explore multi-sensory worlds and draw out the complexities of emerging affects. Adapting Karen Barad’s diffractive analysis, this empathic approach is embodied and involves experiencing-with data to generate new understandings and questions about posthuman creativity. Rather than speaking for others via observation, recognition, and evaluation, this follows Gilles Deleuze’ proposition that thinking should involve embodied encounter, which can disrupt thinking through relational becoming.
Pro-adherence complementary audiovisual educational intervention model for chronic myeloid leukemia patients treated with imatinib mesylate
Authors: Barbosa Adriana do Prado , Rodrigues Martins Marcelo , Dewulf Nathalie de Lourdes Souza , Carneiro Wilsione José , Oliveira Flávia Neri Meira de , Lemes Guilherme Andrade , Cunha Marianna Medeiros Barros da , Cruz Alessandro de Carvalho , Cunha Luiz Carlos da
Published: January 2022

Background

Imatinib mesylate (IM) treatment adherence is a challenge, especially in an economic-social population neglected from developing countries.

Objective

To create a new complementary audiovisual educational intervention model to improve IM treatment adherence of CML patients.

Methods

Two adherence verification methods were applied before and after intervention: modified Morisky-Green test and molecular responses (BCR-ABL transcripts quantification). Adherence estimates were calculated using univariate and multivariate component analysis (MCA) for the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients.

Results

Modified Morisky-Green test results demonstrated a substantial increase of CML patient adherence from 23% (pre-film) to 65% (post-film). Greater improvement was obtained for patients presenting major molecular response (MMR) from 38% (pre-film) to 60% (post-film). Although slight gain for complete molecular response (CMR) from 23% (pre-film) to 26% (post-film) was achieved, it represents a total tumour regression. MCA identified that females <50 years-old, using less than two medications (no disease associated) and CMR condition were the most benefited with intervention.

Conclusion

Audiovisual educational intervention was an effective complementary pro-adherence model, activating patient memory and improving IM treatment adherence. Although this intervention shows effective, not all patients responded as expected, being necessary a combination of educational and clinical interventions to improve IM adherence.
Analysis and optimization of vehicle transient characteristics under sine-swept steering input with considering steering system stiffness and damping
Authors: Gao Jin , Qi Xiaoping
Published: January 2022

This study focuses on the influence of steering system stiffness and damping on the vehicle transient characteristics at two different types of handling frequencies, and optimizes the vehicle transient characteristics with steering system stiffness and damping as optimization variables at both handling frequencies. The kinematic relationship between wheel angle and steering wheel angle is derived as well as a detailed analysis of the forces on the steering linkage. The differential equations of vehicle dynamics are developed to explain the influence of steering system stiffness and damping on the vehicle transient characteristics theoretically. The stiffness and damping, which have a significant influence on the vehicle transient characteristics, are selected by sensitivity analysis and used as variables for simulation verification. Simulation results show that the influence of steering system stiffness and damping on vehicle transient characteristics is different at high handling frequencies and low handling frequencies. The stiffness and damping are used as optimization variables and the objective evaluation indexes of vehicle transient characteristics at high handling frequencies and low handling frequencies are used as optimization targets for multi-objective optimization by the NSGA-II optimization algorithm. The optimization results show that: The yaw rate gain relative to steering wheel angle and the delay time of lateral acceleration relative to steering wheel angle are improved at both low and high frequencies.
Network analysis approach for exploring dementia representations in the Slovak media
Authors: Michalko Drahomír , Plichtová Jana , Šestáková Anna
Published: January 2022

Objectives

The aim of the present study is to test the network analysis method on a corpus of media texts with the aim of systematically analysing media representations of dementia in the Slovak media.

Methods

A word-network was modelled from the corpus of media documents using social network analysis. 244 text-documents (web, print, TV and radio) from 2015 to 2018 (inclusive) were retrieved from the Newton media database using the search words ‘dementia’ and ‘Alzheimer’s disease’.

Results

Twelve clusters of co-occurring concepts corresponding to individual themes were identified. The results of the analysis provide evidence that biomedical themes such as ‘medical diagnosis’, ‘prevalence of dementia’ and ‘memory disorders’ possess the greatest representational strength and centrality and account for roughly two-thirds of the whole corpus.

Conclusion

Results of the present study provide valuable insights into the representation of dementia in the Slovak media but also demonstrate how media representations can be studied using the innovative approach of network analysis.
Child Sexual Abuse Studies in Arab Societies: A Systematic Review and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Attrash-Najjar Afnan , Katz Carmit
Published: January 2022

Although child sexual abuse (CSA) is acknowledged as a worldwide social phenomenon, less is known about CSA within Arab societies. The current systematic literature review was designed to highlight the empirical knowledge on CSA in Arab societies. Guided by PRISMA principles, key databases were searched, with no time limit, for studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Fifty-seven studies were identified. The majority focused on the prevalence of CSA in various Arab societies around the world, with a wide range of rates reported. It is important to stress two main barriers addressed by the included studies. The first relates to the issue of taboo and the forbidden discussion of sexual content. The second is ethical, in which the researchers expressed their fear of creating emotional distress for their participants. A small group of studies examined parents’ perceptions of CSA and the need for parents’ involvement in the protection of their children. Another small group of studies focused on professionals’ perceptions and experiences in contending with CSA, as well as their distress, conflict, and urgent need for support and guidance. The conclusions from the systematic literature review emphasized the enormous challenge of conducting studies on CSA in Arab societies and the urgent need to advance this research while also including children and adult survivors, whose perceptions and experiences are currently understudied. Moreover, the discussion stresses the need to adopt an intersectionality paradigm in future studies to advance the improvement of CSA policy and practice.
Adolescents’ Experiences of Participating in Sensitive Research: A Scoping Review of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Neelakantan Lakshmi , Fry Deborah , Florian Lani , Meinck Franziska
Published: January 2022

Despite an increasing emphasis on adolescents’ participation rights, there are concerns about their participation in research on sensitive topics, such as trauma and violence. This review reports findings of a scoping review that examined the nature and extent of qualitative studies conducted with adolescents about their experiences of participating in research on sensitive topics. Studies were identified by searching electronic databases and grey literature and reported on qualitative and mixed-methods studies eliciting adolescents’ experiences of participating in research on sensitive topics. Seventeen (17) studies were included after screening 4426 records. The scoping review revealed significant adolescent benefits from participation, relating to positive emotions, skill acquisition and enhanced self-efficacy and interpersonal relationships. To a lesser extent, participants also experienced burdens relating to negative emotions, concerns about confidentiality and privacy and inconvenience of participation, which were mitigated by careful attention to research design and researcher engagement and training. Participants shared insights into their motivation to participate, and factors that impacted their experiences of research, such as ethical considerations, including consent procedures, safety and connection in research, study procedures and documentation and researcher characteristics. There were tangible benefits and some burdens involved in adolescents’ participation in sensitive research. This review considers implications for research and practice, such as the need to regularly publish findings of consultations, assessing caregiver consent requirements, obtaining adolescent views on study documents and measures and building on existing research, differentiated by age, gender and dis/ability status, especially in diverse and under-represented regions.
Assessing the Effects of a Statewide Training Initiative on Local School Wellness Policies
Authors: McKee Sarah L. , Xu Ran , Schwartz Marlene B.
Published: January 2022

Local district wellness policies are designed to ensure that schools support student health by providing a healthy nutrition environment and opportunities for physical activity. The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) developed a 5-year initiative to strengthen wellness policies across their state by offering regional wellness workshops and providing coaches to work with individual districts. KSDE also developed the Wellness Impact Tool (WIT), a self-report measure districts use to document their practices at each school level related to Nutrition, Nutrition Promotion, Physical Activity, and Integrated School-Based Wellness. Kansas districts ( N = 286) completed the WIT annually over a 5-year period. The current study evaluates the KSDE wellness initiative by examining the changes in WIT scores over time and by school level, and testing whether greater engagement with wellness supports (i.e., workshops attended and coaching sessions received) predicts higher WIT scores. The findings indicate that district WIT scores increased over the 5-year initiative. Overall, high schools scored higher than elementary or middle schools on Nutrition items, and elementary schools scored higher than other school levels in the domains of Nutrition Promotion, Physical Activity, and Integrated School-Based Wellness. The number of wellness supports utilized by districts each year were significant predictors of subsequent WIT scores. The KSDE’s initiative to support Kansas school districts was associated with significant improvements in the quality of wellness practices across the state and provides a model for consideration by other states.
Review of the study of relation between the thermal protection performance and the thermal comfort performance of firefighters’ clothing
Authors: Lei Zhongxiang
Published: January 2022

This paper reviews the current evaluation methods of thermal protection performance and thermal comfort performance for fabric and clothing from standard and non-standard tests. The test environment includes thermal radiation, thermal convection, flash fire, and so on. The research of this paper will promote the formulation and improvement of the new standard of Fire clothing. The future researches on thermal protection performance, and thermal comfort performance should be closer to the real fire environment. At the same time, the study of relation between the thermal protection performance and the thermal comfort performance of fire-fighters’ clothing is reviewed. The shortcomings of current researches and the focus of future researches are expounded. This study not only provides guidelines and suggestions for the research, development, design and selection of fire-fighters’ clothing, but also helps to better understand the relationship between thermal protection performance and thermal comfort performance of fire fighter clothing. Meanwhile, it provides a reference for improving the testing methods and establishing the testing standards of fire fighter clothing.
Outcomes of Pyrocarbon Arthroplasty in Metacarpophalangeal Joints Affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Cummings Paige E. , Claxton Matthew R. , Wagner Eric R. , Rizzo Marco
Published: January 2022

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affecting the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint may warrant arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to investigate implant survivorship, complications, radiographic outcomes, and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing MCP arthroplasty with a pyrocarbon implant to treat RA.

Methods:

In all, 124 MCP joint pyrocarbon arthroplasties in 40 patients performed to treat RA were reviewed. Operations were at the index (n = 43, 35%), middle (n = 33, 27%), ring (n = 27, 22%), and small (n = 21, 17%) fingers from 1998 to 2009 in 105 (85%) female and 19 (15%) male joints with a mean age of 54 ± 11 years. Mean postoperative follow-up was 6 ± 3 years. All patients achieved at least 2 years of follow-up.

Results:

Rates of implant survivorship at 1, 2, 5, and 10 years were 98%, 98%, 90%, and 81%, respectively. Fifteen percent (n = 18) of arthroplasties underwent revision at a mean 5 ± 3 years postoperatively. The overall reoperation rate was 29% (n = 36). Rates of survival from reoperation at 1, 2, 5, and 10 years were 85%, 84%, 76%, and 68%, respectively. Complications occurred in 32% (n = 40). Pain ratings improved postoperatively ( P < .01). Arc of motion improved from 37 ± 21 to 43 ± 19 ( P = .03). Both appositional and oppositional strength improved after surgery; however, there was no improvement in grip strength ( P < .01).

Conclusions:

Metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty with a pyrocarbon implant demonstrated reliable improvement in pain and arc of motion in patients with RA. Complication and overall reoperation rates were high, while 1 in 10 undergo revision within 5 years postoperatively.
Comparing data from thrombectomy in m2 occlusion and proximal middle cerebral artery
Authors: Delgado Acosta Fernando , Jiménez Gómez Elvira , Bravo Rey Isabel , Romero Saucedo Veredas , Valverde Moyano Roberto , Oteros Fernández Rafael
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation has been shown to be beneficial. The question of whether this technique is safe and effective in the distal vasculature remains unanswered. We wanted to compare outcome data from mechanical thrombectomy of M2 branches of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) with those of the M1 segment, and better understand the clinical predictors of these M2 occlusions.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of data prospectively collected between January 2017 and July 2021 from patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing mechanical thrombectomy of isolated M1 or M2 branches of the MCA.

Results

350 patients were identified, 287 with M1 and 63 with M2 occlusions. Mean age was 70.71 ± 12.55 and 75.21 ± 10.21 years, respectively (p = 0.0083). Baseline Alberta Stroke Program Computed Tomography (ASPECT) score was worse in the M1 cohort (7.68 ± 1.73 vs. 8.32 ± 1.54; p = 0.0079), while there was no significant difference in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores. No statistical disparity existed in mean procedure duration for each cohort; fewer thrombectomy attempts were required in the M2 cohort (2.01 vs. 1.63; p = 0.0478). There was no statistical difference in total time to recanalization (559.19 vs. 629.97, p = 0.2506). Similar rates of successful reperfusion were observed (Thrombolysis in Ischaemic Stroke score [TICI] ≥ 2b 80.84% vs. 71.43% p = 0.1221). Good outcome (modified Rankin scale ≤ 2) was 56.10 in M1 occlusions and 63.49% on M2 groups. Intracranial haemorrhage rates were similar.

Conclusions

M2 thrombectomy is safe and a significant proportion of patients achieve a good clinical outcome. Advanced age, atrial fibrillation and previous treatment with anticoagulants were predictors for poor outcome. Good outcome was achieved when effective recanalization was obtained.