bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of particle interception of seamless knitted composite filter material based on the discrete phase model
Authors: Haiwen Mao , Pan Zhijuan
Published: September 2022

In this research, a three-dimensional geometric model of knitted cylindrical air filter material is constructed. Due to the isotropy of the three-dimensional structure, a certain cyclic structure is selected for the flow calculation domain in this research. According to the principle of air filter particle testing, the pressure drop of the filter material and the particle collection efficiency are simulated and calculated. Applying ANSYS finite element analysis software, based on Fluent's fluid Lagrangian discrete model, the geometric model is meshed and the particle materials and boundary conditions are set. Air is the continuous phase, and its velocity is set at 0.27 m/s. The jet particles are used as discrete phases to track the particle trajectory in real time. Based on the above conditions, the simulation of the capture efficiency of weft-knitted tubular air filter material for different particle sizes can not only predict and evaluate the filtering efficiency of the knitted tubular air filter material, but also provide a theoretical reference for fluid simulation of the knitted filter material.
Auricular Malignant Proliferating Trichilemmal Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Zhou Enhui , Xue Xiaocheng , Liu Xing , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2022

Malignant proliferating trichilemmal tumor (MPTT) is a dermal adnexal tumor originated from the external root sheath of hair follicles. In this article, we reported a rare case of auricular MPTT in a 65-year-old male with gradually enlarging and bleeding mass on the right auricle measuring 30 × 20 × 12 mm in size and detailed the surgical strategy for therapy. The diagnosis of MPTT was established primarily by histopathological observation with abrupt keratinization, cytological atypia, abnormal mitoses, and infiltrating margins. Following extensive excision, no recurrence was noted for 14 months. We also discuss its clinicopathological features, differential diagnoses, and treatment methods and review the relevant literature in this regard.
A Case of Massive Subcutaneous Emphysema and Pneumomediastinum Due to Dehiscence of Stoma After Emergent Tracheostomy
Authors: Kim Young Nam , Chang Young-Soo , Cho Kyoung Rai , Kim Bo Young
Published: September 2022

Tracheostomy is commonly performed on patients who require long-term ventilator support. As with all other airway managements, tracheostomy comes with risks: tracheal scarring, tracheal rupture, pneumothorax, and tracheoesophageal fistula. Although rare, free air leakage into the surrounding tissues of the tracheostomy site and consequent pneumomediastinum can also occur due to various reasons, such as tracheal rupture and mispositioning of the tracheal tube. Such conditions may require treatments including high flow oxygen, ventilator management, and occasionally surgical intervention. In our case of a 61-year-old female, emergent tracheostomy was performed and subsequent complications of massive pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema were treated with negative pressure wound therapy. The follow-up radiograph after negative pressure wound therapy showed resolution of pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema, and there were no additional complications. Negative pressure wound therapy is an effective treatment option for massive pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema after tracheostomy.
Change over time in interactions between unfamiliar toddlers
Authors: Lahat Ayelet , Perlman Michal , Howe Nina , Recchia Holly E. , Bukowski William M. , Santo Jonathan B. , Luo Zhangjing , Ross Hildy
Published: September 2022

The frequency and length of games, conflicts, and contingency sequences that took place between toddlers as they got to know one another were studied using archival data. The sample consisted of 28 unfamiliar 20- and 30-month-old toddlers (predominantly White, 16 males) who met separately with each of two other toddlers for 18 play dates. The frequency of games increased over time, while the frequency of conflict and contingency sequences decreased. The length of games increased over time while the length of conflicts and contingency sequences were stable. Age and language ability predicted changes in frequency and length of the different types of sequences. Thus, toddlers engage in less structured interactions when they first meet; their interactions become increasingly more organized and positive as the relationship evolves.
Deep Learning–Based Segmentation of Morphologically Distinct Rat Hippocampal Reactive Astrocytes After Trimethyltin Exposure
Authors: Vuorimaa Miika , Kareinen Ilona , Toivanen Petri , Karlsson Stefan , Ruohonen Saku
Published: September 2022

As regulators of homeostasis, astrocytes undergo morphological changes after injury to limit the insult in central nervous system (CNS). Trimethyltin (TMT) is a known neurotoxicant that induces reactive astrogliosis in rat CNS. To evaluate the degree of reactive astrogliosis, the assessment relies on manual counting or semiquantitative scoring. We hypothesized that deep learning algorithm could be used to identify the grade of reactive astrogliosis in immunoperoxidase-stained sections in a quantitative manner. The astrocyte algorithm was created using a commercial supervised deep learning platform and the used training set consisted of 940 astrocytes manually annotated from hippocampus and cortex. Glial fibrillary acidic protein-labeled brain sections of rat TMT model were analyzed for astrocytes with the trained algorithm. Algorithm was able to count the number of individual cells, cell areas, and circumferences. The astrocyte algorithm identified astrocytes with varying sizes from immunostained sections with high confidence. Algorithm analysis data revealed a novel morphometric marker based on cell area and circumference. This marker correlated with the time-dependent progression of the neurotoxic profile of TMT. This study highlights the potential of using novel deep learning-based image analysis tools in neurotoxicity and pharmacology studies.
Muslim Minority Against Islamic Nation: The Shias of British India and the Demand for Pakistan, 1940–45
Authors: Mazumder Rajit K.
Published: September 2022

This article analyses the relationship between British colonialism and Islamic sectarianism, and its consequent impact on the Shias, the largest Muslim minority in British India. In the critical decade leading up to independence and partition in 1947, politics in British India were dominated by the Muslim League’s demand for Pakistan. However, leading Shia organizations were opposed to the League’s idea of an Islamic nation and supported India’s independence without partition. Instead, they demanded that the British recognize the Shia as a Muslim minority, and thereby confer statutory protections from Sunni domination. The British government arbitrarily and unjustly ignored Shia entreaties for constitutional protections. Imperial realpolitik required the colonial state to acknowledge the Muslim League as the sole political representative of all Muslims, thus, rendering Pakistan a fait accompli. The intersection of the colonial government’s political calculations with the League’s political ambitions compelled both to discard the Shias. This study of the complex issue of minorities and their uncertain position in the nation promised for all Muslims has relevance for current debates on the nation and nationalism, on minorities and their rights, on sectarianism and majoritarianism, and on the politics of identity.
Elevated alanine aminotransferase is associated with biphasic insulin secretion in the healthy elderly Han Chinese population
Authors: Wu Tzong-Yow , Liao En-Chih , Chen Yen-Lin , Lin Yung-Feng , Liu Shu-Hsiang , Lin Hua-Ching , Chiu Yi-Chou , Wu Chung-Ze , Lin Jiunn-Diann , Pei Dee , Hsu Chun-Hsien
Published: September 2022

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between alanine transaminase (ALT) level and biphasic insulin secretion (BPIS) in healthy elderly Han Chinese individuals.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled healthy elderly participants aged ≥60 years that were part of a health examination programme. In order to explore the correlation and severity of the clinical condition, those with any possible confounding factors known to affect insulin secretion or liver function were excluded from the study. BPIS was calculated using an equation developed previously by this research team.

Results

This study enrolled 39 845 healthy elderly individuals (19 058 males and 20 787 females). Participants were stratified into four quartile groups according to their ALT level. In both males and females, the increasing ALT quartiles (ordinal variable) were associated with greater values of log-transformed first-phase insulin secretion (FPIS) and second-phase insulin secretion (SPIS). The correlation and the linear regression model showed that increasing ALT level was significantly correlated with higher log-transformed FPIS and SPIS.

Conclusions

ALT was positively correlated with BPIS in a healthy elderly population in both men and women. Elevated ALT may serve as an indicating factor for developing metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus in healthy elderly individuals.
Is the future frightening? Anxiety among young people in care in Poland as they move to independence
Authors: Koprowicz Anna , Gumowska Iwona
Published: September 2022

Moving to independent adulthood constitutes a difficult developmental challenge for all young people. But it can be especially hard for those in foster care who often lack support from their birth families and struggle with concerns about their future. The aim of this study was to investigate the circumstances that contribute to the future anxiety affecting looked after children in Poland as they move to independence. A quantitative methodology was used, the results of which show that the future anxiety of young people in foster care correlates with their age, source of income and continuation of education but not with gender, place of residence, type of care placement, current housing, intensity of relationships or current level of education. A similar study of a comparison group of young people who were not looked after and living with their birth families found no differences between the two groups in levels of general anxiety. The findings indicate that future anxiety is common among all young people moving to independence but that for some young people in care, it is sufficiently severe as to impair their progress. The risk and protective factors associated with this are highlighted. The findings also suggest that mentoring is an especially effective way of helping them make a successful transition.
Examination of the Temporal Stability of Daily and Monthly Adjustment Factors of Bicycle Traffic
Authors: Esawey Mohamed El
Published: September 2022

Monthly adjustment factors (MFs) and daily adjustment factors (DFs) are typically calculated using complete annual data from permanent count stations. These factors are applied at other locations where short-term counts are collected using temporary counters. In this research, the long-term temporal stability of MFs and DFs for bicycle traffic was investigated. Annual daily count data collected from permanent count stations in Vancouver, Canada between 2010 and 2019 were used in the study. A longitudinal analysis of MFs and DFs in the 10 years was undertaken. The coefficient of variation (CoV) of the MFs of the 10 years was found to be less than 12% for the months between April and September, indicating the potential temporal transferability of these factors from one year to a future year. The other 4 months of the year showed a higher CoV with December being the highest (i.e., 25%). As for the DFs, it was found that, depending on the day of week, weather, and month, substantial variation could exist in the calculated factors. Nevertheless, factors developed for dry weekdays in the summer months were shown to exhibit the lowest variability over the 10 years and as such these factors were deemed transferable from one year to another. The results presented in this paper could be beneficial for transportation planners and traffic engineers managing traffic monitoring programs of cycling traffic for which the potential for transferring historical adjustment factors to future years was demonstrated.
A Critical Qualitative Study of Inequities in Hispanic-Serving Institutions’ Grant-Seeking Competitiveness
Authors: Aguilar-Smith Stephanie
Published: September 2022

Hispanic-Serving Institutions’ (HSIs) diversification and Title V’s anemic funding present a ripe condition for inequity. Hence, I interviewed 29 institutional actors across 17 HSIs to understand how they view their competitiveness for these grants and sources of inequity of this program. I identified four themes, demonstrating that an HSI’s institutional capacity, (in)actions, knowledge, and leadership inform its competitiveness for Title V funding. The findings show that HSIs have unequal organizational conditions and reveal ways this program may (re)produce inequity among HSIs. Without increased Title V appropriations and policy modification, HSIs will vie for funding on increasingly unequal terms, resulting in greater inequity.
The Evolving Identities of HSI and Differentiated Funding
Authors: Burbage Amanda K. , Glass Chris R.
Published: September 2022

To achieve Higher Education Act Title V funding goals, policymakers must reconsider approaches, respond to Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) diversity, and prioritize servingness. This study investigated HSI heterogeneity across traditional performance metrics and student-engagement indicators using data sources previously only examined independently. A multi-step TwoStep cluster analysis revealed six clusters of HSIs. The two most important predictors of cluster membership were years with an HSI designation (transitioning and established) and institution type (associate, bachelor, and special focus). Key quantitative metrics may be useful for policy actors seeking an equity-minded Title V award strategy that considers HSI heterogeneity and prioritizes HEA Title V policy aims.
Coalition Networks for the Green New Deal: Nonprofit Public Policy Advocacy in the Age of Social Media
Authors: Yang Aimei , Liu Wenlin
Published: September 2022

Social media is an important tool for nonprofit public policy advocacy. To help nonprofits effectively utilize social media in advocacy efforts, this study proposes a measurement framework of social media social capital based on social networks. Specifically, in this study, we examine the relationships between social media capital and symbolic, political capital on social media. We study how a group of nonprofits utilizes Twitter to advocate for the Green New Deal and their interaction with politicians, activists, and publics on social media during the 2019 presidential primaries. Our analysis shows that different dimensions of social media capital significantly influence nonprofits’ social media-based symbolic capital and political capital.
Two-Year-Olds’ Eye Movements Reflect Confidence in Their Understanding of Words
Authors: Dautriche Isabelle , Goupil Louise , Smith Kenny , Rabagliati Hugh
Published: September 2022

We studied the fundamental issue of whether children evaluate the reliability of their language interpretation, that is, their confidence in understanding words. In two experiments, 2-year-olds (Experiment 1: N = 50; Experiment 2: N = 60) saw two objects and heard one of them being named; both objects were then hidden behind screens and children were asked to look toward the named object, which was eventually revealed. When children knew the label used, they showed increased postdecision persistence after a correct compared with an incorrect anticipatory look, a marker of confidence in word comprehension (Experiment 1). When interacting with an unreliable speaker, children showed accurate word comprehension but reduced confidence in the accuracy of their own choice, indicating that children’s confidence estimates are influenced by social information (Experiment 2). Thus, by the age of 2 years, children can estimate their confidence during language comprehension, long before they can talk about their linguistic skills.
Ride performance of driver’s seat suspension system using various dynamics models
Authors: Zhou Huaxiang , Nguyen Vanliem , Hua Wenlin , Zha Jili , Wang Shan
Published: September 2022

The research has proposed three isolation models of the negative-stiffness-element (NSE), the damping-element (DE), and the NSE embedded to the small mass (NSE-SM) that was connected with the seat suspension to ameliorate the ride comfort of the driver. A vibration model of the vehicle and seat built under the random and bumpy excitations has been used for evaluating the isolation performance of the NSE, DE, and NSE-SM. The effect of the NSE, DE, and NSE-SM’s dynamic parameters on their isolation performance is then evaluated via the root-mean-square values of the seat displacement ( z ws) and seat acceleration ( a ws). Based on the genetic algorithm, the NSE, DE, and NSE-SM’s dynamic parameters are optimized to fully reflect their isolation performance. The investigation result indicates that the driver’s ride comfort is slightly affected by the geometric dimension ratios of the NSE, DE, and NSE-SM, while the driver’s ride comfort is greatly affected by the damping and stiffness parameters; and the damping and stiffness ratios of the NSE, DE, and NSE-SM. With the optimized parameters of the NSE, DE, and NSE-SM, the simulation results under the different operating conditions of the vehicle show that the DE slightly improves the driver’s ride comfort. Conversely, both the NSE and NSE-SM greatly improve the driver’s ride comfort, especially the NSE-SM. Therefore, the model of the seat suspension embedded by the NSE-SM should be applied for improving the driver’s ride comfort.
Caregivers’ Concerns About Assisted Living Residents’ Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Hoben Matthias , Baumbusch Jennifer , B. Hogan David , Gruneir Andrea , A. Chamberlain Stephanie , Corbett Kyle , E. Griffith Lauren , McGrail Kimberlyn M. , E. Amuah Joseph , E. Lane Natasha , J. Maxwell Colleen
Published: September 2022

Family or friend caregivers’ concerns about assisted living (AL) residents’ mental health are reflective of poor resident and caregiver mental health. COVID-19-related visiting restrictions increased caregiver concerns, but research on these issues in AL is limited. Using web-based surveys with 673 caregivers of AL residents in Western Canada, we assessed the prevalence and correlates of moderate to severe caregiver concerns about residents’ depressed mood, loneliness, and anxiety in the 3 months before and after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Caregiver concerns doubled after the start of the pandemic (resident depressed mood: 23%–50%, loneliness: 29%–62%, anxiety: 24%–47%). Generalized linear mixed models identified various modifiable risk factors for caregiver concerns (e.g., caregivers’ perception that residents lacked access to counseling services or not feeling well informed about and involved in resident care). These modifiable factors can be targeted in efforts to prevent or mitigate caregiver concerns and resident mental health issues.
Assessment of Rotational Thromboelastometry and Thrombin Generation Assay to Identify Risk of High Blood Loss and Re-Operation After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Jeong Dajeong , Kim Seon Young , Gu Ja-Yoon , Kim Hyun Kyung
Published: September 2022

Introduction: We aimed to investigate parameters for prediction of post-operative blood loss and re-operation in patients who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods: Thrombin generation assay, activated partial thromboplastin time, activated clotting time and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) tests were performed at 4 time points in 65 patients: before skin incision (T1), after heparin injection (T2), after protamine reversal (T3) and before skin closure (T4). Results: Pre-operative endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and peak thrombin levels were significantly lower in patients with high post-operative blood loss (≥ 800 mL) within 24 h than in those with low blood loss (< 800 mL). Clotting time (CT), maximal clotting firmness, clotting firmness time and alpha angle values of ROTEM measured at T2, T3 or T4 were significant predictors for high post-operative blood loss. An increase in CT-EXTEM over 4 time points was significant in patients who had a re-operation within 48 h compared to their counterparts. Conclusions: This study indicates that pre-operative ETP could predict high post-operative blood loss and that intra-operative ROTEM also helps to stratify risks of high post-operative blood loss and re-operation.
Black-blood Venous Imaging (BBVI): A Contrast-Free and High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Approach for Diagnosing IVCS – a Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Cheng Zhangbo , Wang Hang , Lin Shengmei , Yin Lei , Su Jiawei , Lei Yunhong , Lan Yongrong , Yan Jun , Han Tao , Ma Mingping , Xie Guoxi
Published: September 2022

Background

Iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS) diagnosis heavily relies on an imaging test. However, non-invasive and contrast-free imaging test for the diagnosis of IVCS remains a big challenge. To address this issue, this prospective study aimed to assess the image quality and diagnostic performance of a magnetic resonance imaging technique, black-blood venous imaging (BBVI), in detecting IVCS by comparing it with contrast-enhanced computed tomography venography (CTV) and using invasive digital subtraction angiography (DSA) as the reference.

Methods

We enrolled 105 patients, and all patients underwent BBVI, CTV, and DSA examinations. We compared the consistency of CTV and BBVI image quality and their consistency in diagnosing the rate of iliac vein stenosis in IVCS patients. Using the consensus DSA as a reference, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of BBVI and CTV and their diagnostic agreement with DSA were calculated.

Results

BBVI demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for the diagnosis of IVCS, without contrast agents. BBVI and CTV are quite in diagnosis IVCS. Quite SE (67.8% vs 68.3%), SP (94.8% vs 94.8%), PPV (98.0% vs 98.0%), NPV (46.2% vs 46.9%) and ACC (75.3% vs 75.7%) were obtained by BBVI in comparison with CTV.

Conclusion

BBVI has comparable diagnostic performance with CTV. It may be a viable alternative to CTV techniques in screening the IVCS without contrast agents and free of ionizing radiation.
Challenges of Differential Diagnosis Between Primary Hyperparathyroidism and Bone Metastases of Breast Cancer
Authors: Gorobeiko Maksym , Dinets Andrii , Pominchuk Denys , Abdalla Karim , Prylutskyy Yuriy , Hoperia Viktoria
Published: September 2022

Breast cancer might be complicated by distant metastases accompanied by hypercalcemia, but hyperparathyroidism is not commonly considered in the differential diagnosis. We present a case of 38 years old female patient who was diagnosed with ductal breast carcinoma. Eight months after the initial diagnosis the patient was diagnosed with distant bone metastases. However, this diagnosis was reconsidered at follow up, because we identified elevation of PTH 137.2 pg/ml, Ca2+ 1.19 mmol/l, albumin corrected calcium 2.42 mmol/l, 25(OH)D 39.4 nmol/l, indicating hyperparathyroidism. Scintigraphy with 99mTC-sestamibi confirmed parathyroid adenoma. Postoperative histopathology confirmed 1.2 g chief-cell PTA. Two months after the operation both PTH and Ca2+ levels were within the normal ranges. This study emphasizes the importance of considering possible hyperparathyroidism in patients with breast cancer and hypercalcemia. Routine evaluation of PTH is considered as a reasonable test in patients with breast cancer accompanied by bone lesions.
Case Report: Green Light Exposure Relieves Chronic Headache Pain in a Colorblind Patient
Authors: Cheng Kevin , Martin Laurent F , Calligaro Hugo , Patwardhan Amol , Ibrahim Mohab M
Published: September 2022

Patients with chronic headaches sometimes prefer non-pharmacological methods for pain management. We have shown previously that green light exposure (GLED, Green Light Emitting Diode) reversed thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia in a rat model of neuropathic pain. This effect is mediated through the visual system. Moreover, we recently showed that GLED was effective in decreasing the severity of headache pain and the number of headache-days per month in migraine patients. The visual system is comprised of image-forming and non-image-forming pathways; however, the contribution of different photosensitive cells to the effect of GLED is not yet known. Here, we report a 66-year-old man with headaches attributed to other disorders of homeostasis and color blindness who was recruited in the GLED study. The subject, diagnosed with protanomaly, cannot differentiate green, yellow, orange, and red colors. After completing the GLED exposure protocol, the subject noted significant decreases in headache pain intensity without reduction in the number of headache-days per month. The subject also reported improvement in the quality of his sleep. These findings suggest that green light therapy mediates the decrease of the headache pain intensity through non-image-forming intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. However, the subject did not report a change in the frequency of his headaches, suggesting the involvement of cones in reduction of headache frequency by GLED. This is the first case reported of a colorblind man with chronic headache using GLED to manage his headache pain and may increase our understanding of the contribution of different photosensitive cells in mediating the pain-relieving effects of GLED.
The associations of pandemic-related difficulties with depressive symptoms and psychological growth among American older adults: Social support as moderators
Authors: Fu Mingqi , Guo Jing , Zhang Qilin
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic brought social, health-related, and financial risks to older adults, yet their associations with depressive symptoms and posttraumatic growth (PTG) were not systematically examined. With 3504 respondents aged 60 and over from Health and Retirement Survey, this study found pandemic-related healthcare delay and financial hardship associated with elevated depressive symptoms and decreased PTG, whereas social disruption predicted greater PTG. When confronted with multidimensional difficulties, a higher level of social support buffered depressive symptoms and enhanced PTG following healthcare delay, while those from immediate family members carried the weighing of moderation. Additionally, the moderation effect varied between support types, as exclusive instrumental support engendered more depressive symptoms and squeezed PTG by stimulating a sense of incompetence for older adults. Inversely, receiving both instrumental and emotional support helped individuals of older age against financial-related depressive symptoms. These findings shed light on older adults’ mental health promotion in a pandemic context.
The Impact of Childhood Psychological Maltreatment on Mental Health Outcomes in Adulthood: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xiao Zhuoni , Murat Baldwin Mina , Wong Siu Ching , Obsuth Ingrid , Meinck Franziska , Murray Aja Louise
Published: September 2022

Childhood emotional abuse (CEA) and childhood emotional neglect (CEN) are the least well-studied forms of childhood maltreatment due to challenges in their definition and in detection. However, the available evidence suggests associations with multiple adulthood mental health problems in clinical and non-clinical populations. This systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration number CRD42020197833) explored the associations between CEA and CEN and a range of adulthood mental health problems based on systematic searches of eight databases. In total, 79 English and 11 Chinese studies met our inclusion criteria. Results suggested that CEA and CEN had positive associations with various adulthood mental health problems ( d = 0.02–1.84), including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicidal ideation or attempts, personality disorders, eating disorders, and other psychological symptoms in the general population and across different geographic regions. Furthermore, findings suggested that compared with the non-clinical population, individuals in clinical populations were more likely to have experienced emotional abuse and neglect during childhood. The review highlights the need for more research on emotional abuse and emotional neglect. Furthermore, future research should include more populations from non-western countries and non-college populations. They further underline the importance of addressing issues related to CEA/CEN experiences in the prevention and treatment of mental health issues in adulthood.
Antimicrobial Properties of Highly Elastic Conductive Poly(ethylene terephthalate)/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Fabrics
Authors: Varan Nilüfer Y , Altay Pelin , Çaydamlı Yavuz
Published: September 2022

This research focused on understanding the microbe killing mechanism of the antimicrobial properties of highly elastic conductive poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) powernet fabrics with the help of electric fields and highly elastic structure. In this study, PET/MWCNT fabrics containing three different percentages of MWCNT were knitted and characterized with antimicrobial activity, cytotoxicity, electromagnetic shielding properties, DSC analyses, stiffness tests, and pressure measurements using wireless pressure sensors. Results show that MWCNT has a statistically significant effect on antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity, electromagnetic shielding, stiffness, and exerted pressures. PET/MWCNT fabrics showed excellent antibacterial activity against tested germs; S. aureus and E. coli. A statistically significant increase in percentage reduction of bacteria was observed with the increase in carbon nanotube nanoparticle concentration, accompanied by a good laudering durability even after 20 washing cycle. In terms of cytotoxicity tests, all PET/MWCNT samples were found to have over 70% average relative cell viability, indicating that they are noncytotoxic without interrupting the cell line and primary cell growth in vitro. The materials have provided longer conductive networks and formed electromagnetic shielding at the range of 22.79 dB-25.77 dB at the frequency of 0–1.30 GHz. Moreover, MWCNT concentration did not lead to considerable changes in physical properties like stiffness and exerted pressure properties. Characterization analyses confirmed the changes in the chemical structure of the PET/MWCNT.
What Are the Chances That Epilepsy Surgery Will Allow My Child to Come Off Meds? Assessing Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Outcomes: Data on ASM Freedom
Authors: Joshi Charuta
Published: September 2022

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A qualitative systematic review and meta-aggregation of the experiences of men diagnosed with chronic lymphoedema
Authors: Cooper-Stanton Garry R , Gale Nicola , Sidhu Manbinder , Allen Kerry
Published: September 2022

Background

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that is estimated to affect up to four people per 1000 of the UK population with this increasing with age. Men account for up to 20% of lymphoedema service caseloads with research focussing upon women affected.

Aims

To retrieve primary qualitative research on the experiences of men with chronic lymphoedema.

Methods

A qualitative review was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) meta-aggregation method. A search strategy was applied to 12 databases, from inception to February 2021, with 22 studies identified and appraised. The findings were extracted and synthesised via the JBI approach.

Results

Four synthesised findings were identified: (1) The ‘New Norm’, how diagnosis led to men being faced with a ‘new version’ of themselves; (2) ‘Journey into the Unknown’ relates to the unforeseen diagnosis of the condition; (3) ‘Access’ – challenge in receiving a diagnosis, and support; and (4) ‘Personhood’ – the impact of the condition upon external constructs and relationships.

Conclusions

Men are faced with similar challenges as women coupled with societal expectations with respect to gender identity and expression. This leads to those wishing to engage with men to adopt ‘gender-based tailoring’ within healthcare services, information and support.
Why do so many pregnant women give up exercise? An Italian cross-sectional study
Authors: Skjold Ingvild , Benvenuti Maria Beatrice , Haakstad Lene AH
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Current exercise guidelines recommend women to exercise throughout pregnancy, and the benefits are well documented. Still, there is an increasing decline of exercise levels during pregnancy and a high percentage of them are sedentary. It is well established that individual attitudes and perception of barriers may influence the ability to engage in sufficient amount of exercise. This has, however, not been examined in an Italian pregnant population. Hence, the aims of the present study were to increase knowledge of facilitators and barriers to regular exercise in Italian pregnant women and to report their social support in regard to maternal exercise.

Methods:

Healthy, pregnant women (n = 513) were allocated from Fatebenefratelli San Giovanni Calibita, a public hospital in Rome, and four antenatal clinics in Rome and Modena. The participants completed a validated self-administrated questionnaire, the Physical Activity Pregnancy Questionnaire, in gestational week 36. In line with current American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines (2020), participants were categorized as “regular exercisers” (⩾150 min/week) and “not regular exercisers” (< 150 min/week).

Results:

Only 4.6% of the women engaged in regular physical activity/exercise in the third trimester. “Insufficient time” (54%) were the only barrier negatively associated with exercise. The facilitators “relaxation/recreation” (18%), “prevention of health complaints” (15%), “enjoyment” (10%), and “prevention of gestational weight gain” (4%) were associated with achieving the recommendations of exercise. This study found no association between achieving the recommendations and childhood exercise/having social modeling, or exercising network/milieu (p = 0.294 and p = 0.123). Nevertheless, exercising together with others was a significant predictor for regular maternal exercise (p < 0.001). Most women did not receive any advice on exercise during pregnancy from their doctor or midwife (60.0 %). Yet, those who received such advice were significantly more likely to exercise regularly compared to those who did not (75.0% vs 38.2%; p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Italian pregnant women mainly reported internal facilitators for their willingness to participate in regular maternal exercise, while barriers were primarily related to inconveniences (such as insufficient time and difficulty combining with work/studies). The study addresses the positive association between achieving the recommended amount of exercise and social support in terms of exercising with others and getting advice from health professions. Because women respect their doctor and have regular prenatal checkups, this health care setting can play a pivotal role in the initiation and maintenance of exercise behavior during pregnancy.
The Impact of Perceived Social Support on Internet Addiction Among Vietnamese Undergraduates: The Mediating Role of Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Hoang Hue Thi , Nguyen Hanh Thi Hai , Ngo Giang Que , Viet Le Hoan , Doan Tham Thi , Nguyen Thu Phuong
Published: September 2022

The Internet provides many societal benefits such as diversified sources of information, communication, and entertainment. However, the development of the Internet has negatively impacted users in some ways, with many users displaying symptoms of Internet addiction. Internet addiction is an emerging societal problem, warranting research on its causes. This study examines the impact of perceived social support and the mediating role of emotional intelligence on Internet addiction among Vietnamese undergraduates. The respondents included 787 randomly undergraduate students in Vietnam. The study used exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and using SPSS 20.0 and AMOS 20.0. The results showed that perceived social support negatively affected Internet addiction, and emotional intelligence played a mediating role in the relationship between perceived social support and Internet addiction.
Impact of malnutrition on the academic performance of school children in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zerga Aregash Abebayehu , Tadesse Sisay Eshete , Ayele Fanos Yeshanew , Ayele Segenet Zewdie
Published: September 2022

Objective:

This study aimed to identify the impact of malnutrition on the academic performance of children in Ethiopia.

Method:

The protocol of this study is registered in PROSPERO with a registration number CRD42021242269. A comprehensive search of studies from HINARY, MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and Google was conducted. All published and unpublished studies conducted about the effect of any forms of malnutrition on academic performance of elementary school children in Ethiopia using the English language were included. Quality of the articles was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. The pooled log odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was determined to identify the effect of malnutrition on academic performance. I-square statistics was applied to check the degree of heterogeneity between studies. The presence of publication or small study bias had been assessed by Funnel plots, Egger’s weighted regression test, and Begg’s rank correlation test.

Result:

A total of 10 studies were included in this study. The pooled prevalence of good academic performance among elementary school students in Ethiopia was 58% (95% confidence interval: 48%, 69%). Stunting (odds ratio = 0.48; 95% confidence interval: 0.30, 0.79), underweight (odds ratio = 0.38; 95% confidence interval: 0.27, 0.53), and iodine deficiency (odds ratio = 0.49; 95% confidence interval: 0.31, 0.78) had a significant association with the academic performance. Rural residence (odds ratio = 0.61; 95% confidence interval: 0.44, 0.83), being female (odds ratio = 0.53; 95% confidence interval: 0.37, 0.77), and uneducated parent (odds ratio = 0.51; 95% confidence interval: 0.44, 0.58) were also factors associated with good academic performance of primary school children in Ethiopia.

Conclusion:

This study concluded that malnutrition in the form of stunting, underweight, and iodine deficiency affected the academic performance of elementary school children in Ethiopia. So, the Ministry of Health worked better to strengthen the nutrition intervention at the critical periods of brain development.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum After Insertion of a Hemodialysis Catheter: Koebner Phenomenon, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, and a Delay in Diagnosis
Authors: Alosaimi Majed M. , Sebzali Fatemah , Iqbal Ali , Rabbat Christian G. , Clase Catherine M.
Published: September 2022

Rationale:

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis. Misdiagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum as an infection is not uncommon. Pyoderma gangrenosum can be associated with Koebner phenomenon and rarely results in systemic inflammatory response syndrome and shock.

Presenting concerns of the patient:

A 61-year-old woman had recently started maintenance hemodialysis, using a tunneled catheter. She was admitted with fever and signs of inflammation at the catheter exit site and along the tunnel.

Diagnoses:

The initial diagnosis was catheter-related tunnel infection. The exit site broke down into a 5 cm × 5 cm lesion typical of pyoderma, and a new similar lesion developed at a subcutaneous injection site in her abdomen. Clinical diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum was made. She remained febrile despite broad antibiotic coverage and catheter removal and developed systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) that necessitated transfer to intensive care unit.

Interventions:

She responded well to fluids and intravenous steroids. Viral and bacterial cultures were negative throughout; echocardiography and computed tomography were unrevealing. Insertion of a new hemodialysis catheter was deferred as long as clinically possible, was undertaken while the patient was taking steroids, and was uncomplicated.

Outcomes:

She remained hemodynamically stable and was discharged after rehabilitation. Her wounds slowly granulated and healed. Steroids were tapered.

Teaching points:

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a patient with pyoderma gangrenosum developing at the site of tunneled hemodialysis catheter. Our patient developed SIRS with no evidence of infection. We summarize 11 previous case reports of pyoderma leading to SIRS and responsive to steroids.
High volume retrograde portography for better discrimination of the portal vein during TIPS procedure
Authors: Altenbernd J , Zimmer S , Andrae L , Labonte B , Gruber J , Beier H , Abdulgader M , Buechter M , Forsting M , Theysohn J
Published: September 2022

Background: Imaging of the portal vein prior to puncture for TIPS is essential.

Purpose: With this study, we examined a modified retrograde portography with regard to the reliable representation of the portal vein.

Material and Methods: Prospective evaluation of 65 TIPS interventions with regard to the delimitation of the portal vein and the exact parameters of retrograde portography such as catheter diameter and contrast medium volume per injection.

Results: Retrograde portographies with a large-lumen catheter (10 F) and a large contrast medium volume (40 mL) were performed in 35/63 patients with significantly better delineation of the portal vein than when using 5 F catheters with 10 mL contrast medium.

Conclusion: The so-called high volume retrograde portography leads to better delimitation of the portal vein during TIPS application.
Exploring the Impact of The NEST Collaborative’s Remote Social Intervention on Feelings of Depression and Isolation
Authors: Nolan Ryan W. , Friedman Sarah , Carson Jennifer , Gibb Zebbedia , Acklin Casey , Reed Peter S.
Published: September 2022

Early evidence of remote, volunteer-led social support interventions to reduce social isolation in older adults has been encouraging; however, evaluation data on outcomes related to social isolation associated from these interventions is scarce. Here, we share programmatic details of a novel, statewide initiative, called the NEST Collaborative, rolled out to meet immediate emotional, informational, and instrumental needs of older adults in Nevada during the COVID-19 pandemic. The evaluation included 31 older adults participating in weekly one-to-one empathy-based phone calls with multi-generational volunteers seeking to enhance participants’ social networks through meaningful friendships. The calls were associated with programmatically meaningful, though not statistically significant, improvements in modified Hawthorne Friendship Scale and PHQ-2 Depression Scale scores over two waves of survey responses. These results suggest that social isolation and depression among older adults decreased among our sample over a period of increased isolation and mental health burden across the general population. With the potential for sustained impact in reducing social isolation over time, remote social support programs, such as the NEST Collaborative, may have persistent value long-term, beyond time-limited crisis response contexts.
Pattern changes of microbial communities in urban river affected by anthropogenic activities and their environmental driving mechanisms
Authors: Feng Weiying , Gao Jiayue , Wei Yimei , Liu Danni , Yang Fang , Zhang Qiuying , Bai Yangwei
Published: September 2022

The microbial community structure of sediments in the Bahe River Basin, China was studied using a high-throughput sequencing platform and PCR amplification to investigate the pattern changes in microbial communities in urban rivers affected by anthropogenic activities and their environmental driving mechanisms. The results demonstrated that the average total nitrogen and total phosphorus in the sediments were 524 and 734 mg/kg, respectively. The T, COD and $${\text{NH}}_{4}^{ + }$$

NH

4

+

-N of the water and the moisture content of the sediments has significantly impacted on the microbial community structure. Twenty microbial species with a relative abundance > 1% in the sediments of the river were observed, accounting for 95–99% of the total microbial community. The primary species were Proteobacteria (13.86–69.14%), Firmicutes (1.45–58.33%), Chloroflexi (3.68–26.18%), Actinobacteria (2.7–21.51%), Acidobacteria (0.73–16.36%), Bacteroides (1.53–14.11%), and Thermodesulfobacteria (0.1–8.9%), accounting for over 90% of the total microbial community. At the class level, the primary species were γ-proteobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, Anaerolineae, Bacillus, Bacteroidota, Actinobacteriota, and Clostridia, accounting for over 70% of the total microbial community. Our results provide direct evidence for a link between microbial community structure and environment factors. This evidence demonstrates that sediment microorganisms can be applied to evaluate urban rivers pollution levels, which can provide a scientific basis for pollution control and management in the urban river affected by human activities.
Profiles of GPs with high and low self-reported physician empathy—personal, professional, and antibiotic prescribing characteristics
Authors: Kristensen Troels , Ejersted Charlotte , Ahnfeldt-Mollerup Peder , Søndergaard Jens , Charles Justin A.
Published: September 2022

Background

General Practitioners’ (GPs) professional empathy has been hypothesized to have substantial impact on their healthcare delivery and medication prescribing patterns. This study compares profiles of personal, professional, and antibiotic prescribing characteristics of GPs with high and low empathy.

Methods

We apply an extreme group approach to a unique combined set of survey and drug register data. The survey included questions about demographic, professional, and antibiotic prescribing characteristics, as well as the Jefferson Scale of Empathy for Health Professionals (JSE-HP) to assess self-reported physician empathy. It was sent to a stratified sample of 1,196 GPs comprising 30% of the Danish GP population of whom 464 (38.8%) GPs responded. GPs in the top and bottom decile of empathy levels were identified. All intra- and inter-profile descriptive statistics and differences were bootstrapped to estimate the variability and related confidence intervals. 

Results

61% of GPs in the top decile of the empathy score were female. GPs in this decile reported the following person-centered factors as more important for their job satisfaction than the bottom decile: The Patient-physician relationship, interaction with colleagues, and intellectual stimulation. High-empathy scoring GPs prescribed significantly less penicillin than the low-empathy GPs. This was true for most penicillin subcategories. There were no significant differences in age, practice setting (urban vs. rural), practice type (partnership vs. single-handed), overall job satisfaction, or GP’s value of prestige and economic profit for their job satisfaction. The intra profile variation index and confidence intervals show less prescribing uncertainty among GPs with high empathy.

Conclusions

This study reveals that high empathy GPs may have different personal, professional, and antibiotic prescribing characteristics than low empathy GPs and have less variable empathy levels as a group. Furthermore, person-centered high empathy GPs on average seem to prescribe less penicillins than low empathy GPs.