bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Communication and Language Skills in Children
Authors: Charney Sara A. , Camarata Stephen M. , Chern Alexander
Published: December 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has led to many unintended, long‐lasting consequences for society. Preventative practices such as mask wearing, social distancing, and virtual meetings and classrooms to address contagion concerns may negatively affect communication, particularly in the pediatric population, as schools have begun to open this fall. Increasing awareness and creating innovative methods to promote communication and language learning in settings both in person and virtual is paramount. Although more studies are needed to characterize the pandemic’s impact on pediatric speech and language development, clinicians and parents should be cognizant of this phenomenon and proactive in facilitating an optimal communication environment for children.
Assessment of higher education students’ information problem-solving skills in educational sciences
Authors: Garcia Consuelo , Argelagós Esther , Privado Jesús
Published: December 2020

Many of the current tests that evaluate information problem-solving skills suffer from ecological validity weakness and from library-bias. The Procedural Information Problem-Solving Knowledge Evaluation in Education test (PIKE-E) aims to assess information problem-solving skills of college students in relation to an academic literature review task in educational sciences. It entails a confirmatory analysis of the PIKE-P test in which it is based. The PIKE-E was completed by 700 students from three different Spanish-speaking countries. In our research, we do not assume that information problem solving skills at the international and cultural level are equal, but Internet access is practically the same in higher education. Results show the existence of five first-order factors, Defining the research question, Search strategies planning, Searching and locating sources, Selecting and processing information and Organizing and presenting information, and a general single second-order factor, Information problem-solving, which coincide with contemporary theoretical models on information literacy. The PIKE-E can be used to tackle in which specific areas concerning information skills development, students entering education degrees need to improve to succeed in their studies.
Factors affecting the occurrence of proximal endoleak after endovascular abdominal aortic repair for abdominal aneurysms
Authors: Mazzaccaro Daniela , Mazzeo Girolomina , Zuccon Gianmarco , Modafferi Alfredo , Malacrida Giovanni , Righini Paolo C. , Marrocco-Trischitta Massimiliano M. , Nano Giovanni
Published: December 2020

Objective

This retrospective study was performed to assess the clinical and radiological variables associated with proximal type IA endoleak (EL) in patients treated with elective endovascular repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Methods

The chi-square test, t-test, and logistic regression analysis were performed as appropriate. A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The data of 79 patients were analyzed. No mortality occurred. During follow-up (median, 28.5 months; interquartile range, 12.8–43.0 months), 10 patients developed type IA EL. In the logistic regression analysis, undersizing of the endograft diameter by <10% significantly affected the occurrence of type IA EL. When the diameter was used for measurements, less oversizing was significantly associated with a higher risk of type IA EL. When the area was used for measurements, oversizing of >20% significantly affected the occurrence of type IA EL.

Conclusion

When sizing endografts, a discrepancy was noted between the measurements of the diameter and area of the proximal neck. The area might represent a more accurate measurement than the axial diameter to optimize the proximal sealing and lower the risk of developing type IA EL.
Theorising International Urban Politics
Authors: Jerrems Ari
Published: December 2020

Research across several disciplines has focused on the intersection between the international and the urban to shed light on transformations in global politics. Recently, this intersection has become the focus of critical International Relations scholars. Despite transversal interest, disciplinary boundaries often limit the scope of academic debate. In the interest of developing a transdisciplinary research agenda, this review article charts three different ways that scholars have theorised the relationship between the international, the urban, and the political across disciplines. A review of five recently published books, situated within a broader study of the literature, serves to do this.
A Response to the Millennium Forum
Authors: Zanotti Laura
Published: December 2020

In my response to the contributors to this forum on Ontological Entanglements I take a few steps down the crossroads they have explored. I reflect on the critiques they moved, on the generative potential of quantum ontological research they highlighted and sketch possible avenues for future inquiry. First, I clarify the position of Ontological Entanglements vis a vis feminist and queer theories. While my work deeply relies on this literature, its scope is different. Quantum ontological critique explores how science, as a field of truth, shapes political imaginaries, to include gender. It challenges the prevailing Newtonian substantialism of the discipline of International Relation, addresses the broader implications of scientific ontological imaginaries for the political, and proposes an ethos based on non-substantialist ontological and casual stories. Furthermore, I start exploring the generative potential of the conversations trailblazed by the contributors to this forum: the intriguing but un-easy dialogue with post-critique; and the fruitful engagement with temporality studies, affect theory and decolonial thought, in particular with regard to non-substantialist conceptualizations of time and war, radical entanglement and the ontogenetic property of practices.
Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement in Adolescents: 10-Year Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Menge Travis J. , Briggs Karen K. , Rahl Michael D. , Philippon Marc J.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Previous studies have demonstrated hip arthroscopy to be an effective treatment for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in individuals 18 years of age and older. Long-term outcome data in the adolescent population, however, are limited.

Purpose:

To report 10-year outcomes after hip arthroscopy in adolescents with symptomatic FAI.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Prospectively collected data were analyzed on adolescent patients younger than 18 years of age who had hip arthroscopy between March 2005 and 2009 with a minimum 10-year follow-up. Patients were included if they were diagnosed with symptomatic FAI and an associated labral tear that was treated with repair. Patients were excluded if they had previous hip procedures, acetabular dysplasia (lateral center-edge angle, <20°), avascular necrosis, previous hip fracture or dislocation, or Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, or refused to participate. The primary patient-reported outcome measure was the Hip Outcome Score (HOS) Activities of Daily Living (ADL) subscale. In addition, the HOS—Sport, modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), and patient satisfaction were collected. Failure was defined as patients having to undergo revision arthroscopy.

Results:

There were 60 patients (70 hips) who met inclusion criteria and had a 10-year follow-up. The mean age of the cohort was 16 ± 1.2 years, with 21 male and 49 female hips. Seven hips (10%) required revision hip arthroscopy. All revisions occurred in female patients and were associated with global laxity as well as longer duration of symptoms before time of surgery. At a mean follow-up of 12 years (range, 10-14 years), patients who did not undergo revision surgery had significant improvements from preoperatively to postoperatively in HOS-ADL (from 64 to 92; P < .01), HOS–Sport (from 40 to 86; P < .01), mHHS (from 56 to 88; P < .01), and SF-12 Physical Component Summary (from 41 to 54; P < .01). The median patient satisfaction was 10 out of 10 (very satisfied).

Conclusion:

Hip arthroscopy for FAI with labral repair resulted in excellent patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction at a minimum of 10 years of follow-up. There was a 10% rate of revision surgery, which was associated with global laxity and longer duration of symptoms before surgery, which should be considered in patient selection.
A two-phase flow approach for modeling blood stasis and estimating the thrombosis potential of a ventricular assist device
Authors: Dai Wei-Feng , Wu Peng , Liu Guang-Mao
Published: December 2020

Thrombosis and its related events have become a major concern during the development and optimization of ventricular assist devices (VADs, also called blood pumps), and limit their clinical use and economic benefits. Attempts have been made to model the thrombosis formation, considering hemodynamic and biochemical processes. However, the complexities and computational expenses are prohibitive. Blood stasis is one of the key factors which may lead to the formation of thrombosis and excessive thromboembolic risks for patients. This study proposed a novel approach for modeling blood stasis, based on a two-phase flow principle. The locations of blood residual can be tracked over time, so that regions of blood stasis can be identified. The blood stasis in an axial blood pump is simulated under various working conditions, the results agree well with the experimental results. In contrast, conventional hemodynamic metrics such as velocity, time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), and relative residence time (RRT), were contradictory in judging risk of blood stasis and thrombosis, and inconsistent with experimental results. We also found that the pump operating at the designed rotational speed is less prone to blood stasis. The model provides an efficient and fast alternative for evaluating blood stasis and thrombosis potential in blood pumps, and will be a valuable addition to the tools to support the design and improvement of VADs.
Neonatal Rotavirus-Associated Leukoencephalopathy Is One of the Main Causes of Fifth-Day Fits
Authors: Oh Ki Won , Lim Gina , Lee Kyung Yeon
Published: December 2020

Our province recently experienced an outbreak of neonatal rotavirus-associated leukoencephalopathy. This study aimed to verify whether rotavirus-associated leukoencephalopathy constituted fifth-day fits, which prevailed in Europe and Australia between the 1970s and mid-1980s. Of 118 full-term neonates who were admitted between 2008 and 2017 due to seizures, those who fulfilled the following criteria for fifth-day fits were included: healthy full-term neonates prior to seizures; absence of perinatal asphyxia; seizure onset during 4-6 days of age; and no known cause of neonatal seizures. Overall, 54 patients (45.8%) met the criteria for fifth-day fits. Of them, 44 patients (81.5%) also had rotavirus-associated leukoencephalopathy. The mean annual incidence of fifth-day fits was 5.4 cases, which peaked in 2012-2013 (13 cases) and became zero in 2017. Fifth-day fits with rotavirus-associated leukoencephalopathy accounted for 37.2% of neonatal seizures, which peaked at 70.6% in 2012, and gradually reduced to zero in 2017. Concordance of clinical features between rotavirus-associated leukoencephalopathy and fifth-day fits and their epidemic-like features suggest that rotavirus-associated leukoencephalopathy is one of the main causes of fifth-day fits.
Utilization of CMS pre-ESRD Kidney Disease Education services and its associations with the home dialysis therapies
Authors: Shukla Ashutosh M , Bozorgmehri Shahab , Ruchi Rupam , Mohandas Rajesh , Hale-Gallardo Jennifer L , Ozrazgat-Baslanti Tezcan , Orozco Tatiana , Segal Mark S , Jia Huanguang
Published: December 2020

Background:

Kidney Disease Education (KDE) has been shown to improve informed dialysis selection and home dialysis use, two long-held but underachieved goals of US nephrology community. In 2010, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services launched a policy of KDE reimbursements for all Medicare beneficiaries with advanced chronic kidney disease. However, the incorporation of KDE service in real-world practice and its association with the home dialysis utilization has not been examined.

Methods:

Using the 2016 US Renal Data System linked to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and pre-ESRD Medicare claim data, we identified all adult incident ESRD patients with active Medicare benefits at their first-ever dialysis during the study period (1 January 2010 to 31 December 2014). From these, we identified those who had at least one KDE service code before their dialysis initiation (KDE cohort) and compared them to a parsimoniously matched non-KDE control cohort in 1:4 proportions for age, gender, ESRD network, and the year of dialysis initiation. The primary outcome was home dialysis use at dialysis initiation, and secondary outcomes were home dialysis use at day 90 and anytime through the course of ESRD.

Results:

Of the 369,968 qualifying incident ESRD Medicare beneficiaries with their first-ever dialysis during the study period, 3469 (0.9%) received KDE services before dialysis initiation. African American race, Hispanic ethnicity, and the presence of congestive heart failure and hypoalbuminemia were associated with significantly lower odds of receiving KDE services. Multivariate analyses showed that KDE recipients had twice the odds of initiating dialysis with home modalities (15.0% vs. 6.9%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR):95% confidence interval (CI) 2.0:1.7–2.4) and had significantly higher odds using home dialysis throughout the course of ESRD (home dialysis use at day 90 (17.6% vs. 9.9%, aOR:CI 1.7:1.4–1.9) and cumulatively (24.7% vs. 15.1%, aOR:CI 1.7:1.5–1.9)).

Conclusions:

Utilization of pre-ESRD KDE services is associated with significantly greater home dialysis utilization in the incident ESRD Medicare beneficiaries. The very low rates of utilization of these services suggest the need for focused systemic evaluations to identify and address the barriers and facilitators of this important patient-centered endeavor.
Alternative futures in political discourse
Authors: Cap Piotr
Published: December 2020

This paper describes ways in which political speakers define and legitimize future policies by construing different policy options in terms of ‘privileged’ and ‘oppositional’ futures. Privileged and oppositional futures are conceptual projections of alternative policy visions occurring in quasi-dialogic chunks of speech, revealing specific evidential, mood, and modality patterns. Privileged future involves speaker’s preferred vision and is articulated through absolute modality and evidential markers which derive from factual evidence, history, and reason. Oppositional future involves antagonistic and plainly threatening vision, expressed by probabilistic modality and interrogative mood. For psychological reasons, oppositional future is normally communicated first, allowing a swift response from the privileged future expressed in the speaker-preferred vision. The paper demonstrates that privileged and oppositional futures blur traditional distinctions between dialog and monolog and thus invite heterogeneous methods and instruments of analysis. It discusses the most productive interdisciplinary tools (critical, SFL and rhetorical tools, socio-psychological models), and their implementation in analysis of lexical manifestations of alternative futures in political discourse, such as immigration and anti-terrorist discourse.
The Leadership Characteristics Model of Primary Public Health Administrators in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand
Authors: Wongprasit Nawasanan , Seangsawang Wichit , Chourwong Prawach , Prapatson Chatchai , Poolsawas Kasempat , Klinhom Vipawan
Published: December 2020

The objectives of this research were aimed to study the leadership characteristics model of primary public health administrators in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand. The data of this qualitative research were collected by an in-depth interview. The instrument used in this research was semi-structured interview form designed by the researcher. Derived from purposive sampling, the key informants were comprised of 30 primary public health administrators or directors of the subdistrict health-promoting hospitals. The data were analysed by content analysis approach and interpreted in accordance with the research objectives.

The findings revealed that the main leadership characteristics of primary public health administrators consisted of (a) the administrational integration, (b) the time management, (c) love for work, (d) the holistic health model, (e) the human resource management and (f) the ethics. These results were presented as a leadership characteristics model of primary public health administrators in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand, or the HEALTH model. For problems and obstacles, it was found that the problem of the mental condition of the caregivers of the in-bed patients had increased. The personal development following the central government’s policy was not in accordance with the genuine work need. The ineffective disease control obviously appeared because of the frequent immigration of alien labourers. Moreover, some Thai people in this area had bias to open the country. By this, they ignored to develop themselves.

For suggestion and application, it was found that the staff responsible for the in-bed patients had increasingly encountered with a mental condition. The primary public health administrators should find solutions under participation of all related sectors in order to be ready and go forward to the perfect ageing society. As a result, the caregivers of the elderly were effective.
Left Ventricular Thrombus Therapy With Direct Oral Anticoagulants Versus Vitamin K Antagonists: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Saleiro Carolina , Lopes João , De Campos Diana , Puga Luís , Costa Marco , Gonçalves Lino , Teixeira Rogério
Published: December 2020

Background:

Current guidelines recommend vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for left ventricular thrombus (LVT) resolution. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are increasingly evaluated as alternatives to the standard of care in anticoagulation.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the use of DOACs vs VKAs for LVT treatment. The occurrence of LVT resolution, systemic embolism (SE) or stroke, and bleeding events were compared during follow-up using random-effects analysis.

Results:

The 5 included studies were all observational (a total of 828 patients). Of these, 284 patients (34%) were treated with DOACs, and 544 (66%) treated with VKAs. Thrombus resolution was similar for both methods (pooled odds ratio [OR], 0.91; 95% CI, 0.47-1.75; I 2 = 63%; P = .78). The incidence of SE or stroke was also similar (pooled OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 0.85-2.97; I 2 = 0%; P = .14). Clinically relevant bleeding incidence was similar for both groups (pooled OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.31-1.40; I 2 = 0%; P = .28), although all bleeding events were less frequent in the DOAC group (pooled OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.26-0.90; I 2 = 0%; P = .02).

Conclusion:

Our systematic review and meta-analysis suggests DOACs were as effective as VKAs for LVT resolution, with a similar risk of systemic embolism/stroke and clinically relevant bleeding. These results, obtained from observational studies, are not definitive and hence randomized controlled trials are needed. Nevertheless, our analysis identifies key experimental features required in future studies.
Sympathetic ophthalmia: Report of a case series and comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Yan , Xie Ruotian , Li Xiaorong , Zhang Xiaomin
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate the factors related to sympathetic ophthalmia (SO) in a series of patients in our ophthalmology center and previously published cases.

Methods:

A retrospective and noncomparative review was performed on 16 patients with SO attending our ophthalmology center from 2013 to 2019. A total of 87 previously published cases of SO were identified by searching the Medline database from 2009 to 2019.

Results:

Sixteen patients were included in the analysis, and six cases were induced by transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TCP). All patients had achieved controlled inflammation at their last follow-up visit. Thirteen patients (81.3%) had improved best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). A review of the literature revealed 87 previously reported cases of SO. Shared clinical features and treatment outcomes were summarized.

Conclusion:

Ocular therapies, including both penetrating ocular therapy and non-penetrating ocular intervention, have become increasingly prevalent risk factors for SO, and the latent period has increased compared to past reports. Visual prognosis with appropriate medical management is relatively good.
New method to estimate femoral head size from the trochanteric length of the femur
Authors: Akinmokun Olasode I , Alabi Eyitayo O , Enweluzo George O , Akinsulire Adewole T , Ibeabuchi Nwachukwu M
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

Preoperative planning is an important step before any joint replacement surgery. In developing countries standardised radiographs and planning tools might not be available but nevertheless hemiarthroplasties are performed in certain trauma cases. An equation should be devised to allow a preoperative estimation of the expected femoral head size dimensions in those situations.

Materials and methods:

35 lower limbs of human cadavers were studied. The estimated femoral head (EFH) size of each femur was obtained by measuring the trochanteric length (TL) (in cm) and using the equation ‘EFH = 16 + (0.7 × TL)’. The hip joint was dissected, and the actual size of the femoral head (AFH) was measured on the specimen.

Results:

There was a correlation between the EFH and AFH ( p = 0.0001). Accepting a range of ±3 mm the femoral head size was predicted correctly in 31 hips (89%), for ±4 mm in 33 hips (94%) and for ±5 mm in 35 hips (100%), respectively.

Conclusions:

A simple tape measurement and the equation Femoral head size = {16 + (0.7 × Trochanteric Length)} ±5 mm gives a rather reliable guess for the expected femoral head size. It might be useful as pre-operative planning tool if no standardised radiographs are available.
Soil Science Challenges in a New Era: A Transdisciplinary Overview of Relevant Topics
Authors: Rodrigo-Comino Jesús , López-Vicente Manuel , Kumar Vinod , Rodríguez-Seijo Andrés , Valkó Orsolya , Rojas Claudia , Pourghasemi Hamid Reza , Salvati Luca , Bakr Noura , Vaudour Emmanuelle , Brevik Eric C , Radziemska Maja , Pulido Manuel , Di Prima Simone , Dondini Marta , de Vries Wim , Santos Erika S , Mendonça-Santos Maria de Lourdes , Yu Yang , Panagos Panos
Published: December 2020

Transdisciplinary approaches that provide holistic views are essential to properly understand soil processes and the importance of soil to society and will be crucial in the future to integrate distinct disciplines into soil studies. A myriad of challenges faces soil science at the beginning of the 2020s. The main aim of this overview is to assess past achievements and current challenges regarding soil threats such as erosion and soil contamination related to different United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) including (1) sustainable food production, (2) ensure healthy lives and reduce environmental risks (SDG3), (3) ensure water availability (SDG6), and (4) enhanced soil carbon sequestration because of climate change (SDG13). Twenty experts from different disciplines related to soil sciences offer perspectives on important research directions. Special attention must be paid to some concerns such as (1) effective soil conservation strategies; (2) new computational technologies, models, and in situ measurements that will bring new insights to in-soil process at spatiotemporal scales, their relationships, dynamics, and thresholds; (3) impacts of human activities, wildfires, and climate change on soil microorganisms and thereby on biogeochemical cycles and water relationships; (4) microplastics as a new potential pollutant; (5) the development of green technologies for soil rehabilitation; and (6) the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by simultaneous soil carbon sequestration and reduction in nitrous oxide emission. Manuscripts on topics such as these are particularly welcomed in Air, Soil and Water Research.
Tourism and migration: Identifying the channels with gravity models
Authors: Santana-Gallego Maria , Paniagua Jordi
Published: December 2020

As a result of the role played by migrants in supporting host economies, the interest in understanding the impact of migration is growing. However, the literature remains silent on the channels by which migration affects tourism. The present article aims to isolate the effect of migrant networks on tourism by exploring the role of information, travel costs, and demand for visiting friends and relatives. To this end, a theoretical framework that rests upon a structural gravity model is developed. The model allows not only a better understanding of the relationship between tourism and migration but also to overcome several empirical biases like the omission of multilateral resistance in tourism flows or controlling for endogeneity. The empirical analysis considered a sample of 34 OECD countries as destination/home and 157 origin/countries-of-birth for tourist arrivals/migration stock. A positive and robust effect of migration on inbound tourism is estimated and the three channels proposed to drive this nexus become relevant.
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards health research and its utilization among health professionals in Bhutan: Results of a nationwide cross-sectional survey in 2019
Authors: Dorji Thinley , Wangmo Shacha , Gurung Mongal Singh , Tenzin Karma , Penjore Tashi , Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Research is an important tool for sustainable development and the advancement of health. In Bhutan, the need for strengthening the national health research effort has been recognized only in recent years. As a part of research capacity building, this study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of the country’s health care professionals towards research.

Methods

This was a nationwide cross-sectional study. Simple random sampling was used to obtain a proportionate composition of health professionals. A self-administered questionnaire was developed to assess knowledge through 10 multiple-choice questions, attitude through rating statements, and practices through assessing experiences with research. Knowledge was scored out of 10. Besides analysing proportions, correlation and simple linear regression coefficients were calculated to assess the association of knowledge score with age, work experience, qualification, and the number of research projects undertaken.

Results

A total of 420 valid questionnaires were collected (response rate = 95.2%). The mean knowledge score was 6.2 (±2.0) out of 10. There was a negative correlation between the knowledge score and the participant’s age (r = –0.15, p = 0.002) and work experience (r = –0.17, p < 0.001). Participants’ knowledge score increased by 0.58 (95% CI: 0.50–0.65, p < 0.001) for each unit increase in qualification level and by 0.75 (95%CI: 0.64–0.87, p < 0.001) for every research project conducted. The majority believed that local research would contribute to better clinical decision making (92.8%) by building local evidence (90.3%). Four out of five participants expressed interest in conducting research. However, only 27.4% had ever conducted research, 6.0% had published in journals and 4.3% had presented in scientific conferences. Less than half of the respondents had read (35.2%) or participated in discussions (42.1%) of research articles in their workplace. The major challenges were lack of knowledge (61.2%), time (49.9%) and resources to undertake literature searches (42.6%).

Conclusions

Self-reported knowledge about health research was fair, and the conduct of research and utilization of research articles were poor. However, the majority hold positive attitudes and there is a need for supporting professional development in this area.
To fight poverty and social exclusion, EU law must buttress basic nuts and bolts of the welfare edifice
Authors: Vandenbroucke Frank
Published: December 2020

This article provides a conclusion to the EJSS Special Issue ‘Discussing strategies for Social Europe: The potential role of EU law in contributing to the Union’s policy objective of fighting poverty and social exclusion’. The contributions to this Special Issue raise a fundamental question: why did European governments fail to deliver on their promise, proclaimed with so much emphasis twenty years ago, to reduce poverty in Europe? It is too easy to say that the one and only problem was the non-binding nature of the social objectives of Lisbon and the antipoverty targets of Europe 2020. There is a broader challenge at the EU level, which goes beyond minimum income protection and directly involves crucial nuts and bolts of the whole welfare edifice: when confronted with severe economic and social shocks, welfare states need an adequate stabilization capacity. This implies that the European Monetary Union becomes a true ‘insurance union’. I argue that one should understand the relevance of the European Pillar of Social Rights from this perspective, and I relate that argument to the contributions to the Special Issue.
Does immediate weight-bearing following intramedullary tibial nailing affect union rates? The results from a single UK trauma unit
Authors: Apostolides Michael , Barbur Sabina A , Jowett Andrew JL
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Extra-articular diaphyseal tibial fractures are a common injury and are often treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN). Weight-bearing (WB) of simple tibial fractures treated with an IMN immediately as pain allows is now standard practice. Our aim was to assess the impact of varied WB on fracture union following IMN of diaphyseal tibia fractures.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of tibial fractures treated with IMN in our department between 2012-2017. WB status was recorded in the post-operative note and subsequently reviewed in the patients’ follow-up appointments. Patients were divided in three groups; Group I: immediate full-WB, Group II: non-WB for 6 weeks and Group III: 2 weeks non-WB, 4 weeks increasing partial-WB and full-WB at 6 weeks. Radiographic union score for tibial fractures (RUST) of ≥10 at a painless fracture site was considered as evidence of fracture union.

Results

92 patients with comparable pre-operative demographics [mean age 40 y (16-88)] were included. The median union time in weeks for each group was: Group I 17.3, Group II 21.7 and Group III 19.5 (F 1.09, p 0.34). Survival analysis and log rank test did not show any difference in union times between the three groups (x2 1.1, p 0.57). 12 delayed unions were identified across all groups. Multiple logistic regression identified three factors that could increase the rate of delayed union – non-WB, smoking and IMN size 11/12 mm - however the results were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Immediate post-operative WB does not adversely affect union time in statically locked IMNs. In fact, although our data show no statistically significant difference in fracture healing between the three groups, full WB seems to decrease overall time to union. In conclusion, we could suggest that full WB after IMN in patients with AO 42-A/B type fractures is safe practice.
The witness seminar: A research note
Authors: Nicholls Emily Jay
Published: December 2020

The ‘witness seminar’ as a method for recording contemporary histories is neither well known nor widely employed. By inviting a number of people who were involved in a particular historical event to come together and tell this history collectively, the method enables the production of rich and compelling accounts of contemporary histories. In this article, I introduce the method and the procedures followed in four witness seminars that I organised and co-convened on various topics relating to HIV. I then go on to reflect on the value of this method and how the connections between seminar participants both gave shape to the narrative produced and were also telling of the collaborative history of HIV.
Social Solidarity and Generational Exchange in Post-Celtic Tiger Reality Television
Authors: O’Leary Eleanor
Published: December 2020

An after effect of the 2008 global financial crisis was a significant generational divide, fuelled by growing inequality, that limited access to necessities such as secure work and housing for the post-crash generation in Ireland. Faced with issues including political upheaval, climate crisis, and austerity, young people in Ireland and elsewhere have recently organized themselves online and on the streets as social, environmental, and political activists. This article examines recent Irish reality television texts that encourage intergenerational cooperation and solidarity, offering visions of mutual reliance and positive relationships between young and old that dissipate any notion of “generation wars.” Familial and community structures are thus reinstated as a safety net for current uncertainties. This article proposes that these programmes reflect a desire that the cohesion and transformation gained through intergenerational exchange and cooperation on social issues in Ireland might also be leveraged towards addressing the more stubbornly divisive economic inequalities.
Trauma, Motive and the Post-Troubles Psychopath in The Fall
Authors: Barton Ruth
Published: December 2020

This article discusses the depiction of the serial killer, Paul Spector, in the BBC/RTÉ television series The Fall (2013–2016). It complements existing scholarship on the series’ female detective by considering how Spector’s construction as a Gothic villain and victim of institutional abuse inflects The Fall’s positioning as a transnational genre production. It focuses on the use of Belfast as a setting, taking into account its historical positioning as a “Noir” city, and discusses the series’ spatial politics in the context of the city’s more recent history of sectarian divisions. It places the “explanation” for Spector’s criminal activities in the context of the narrativization of clerical sexual abuse as specifically associated with the Irish Catholic church, and outlines the narrative turns the series is forced to take to reach its generically inflected conclusion. The discussion focuses on seasons one and two of The Fall as the most significant in terms of meaning-making.
MicroRNA-126-5p Inhibits the Migration of Breast Cancer Cells by Directly Targeting CNOT7
Authors: Miao Yuying , Lu Jiang , Fan Baozhen , Sun Lecan
Published: December 2020

Background:

To assess the effect of microRNA-126-5p (miR-126-5p) on the migration of the breast cancer MCF7 cell line.

Methods:

GSE143564 was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo ) to identify the differentially expressed miRNAs between breast cancer and adjacent tissues. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to assess miR-126-5p levels in the normal 184A1 breast cell line and the breast cancer MCF7 cell line. The MCF7 cell line was then transfected with miR-126-5p mimics or corresponding negative control (NC-mimic). The proliferation and migration abilities of the MCF7 cell line were measured by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT), Transwell and scratch healing assays. CCR4-NOT transcription complex and subunit 7 (CNOT7) expression levels in the NC-mimic and miR-126-5p mimic groups were measured by Western blot analysis. Bioinformatic analysis and a dual-luciferase reporter assay were performed to identify the miR-126-5p target gene.

Results:

One hundred forty-eight differentially expressed miRNAs (downregulated = 55, upregulated = 93) were identified. MiR-126-5p expression in the MCF7 cell line was significantly downregulated relative to that of 184A1 cell line (P < 0.05). Compared with that observed in the control and NC-mimic groups, cell proliferation in the miR-126-5p mimic group was significantly decreased at 48 and 72 h posttransfection (P < 0.05). In addition, the scratch healing rate and number of membrane-piercing cells in the miR-126-5p overexpression group were lower than those detected in the control and NC groups (P < 0.05). Furthermore, miR-126-5p could reduce the luciferase activity for the wild-type CNOT7 gene 3’-untranslated region (UTR) reporter (P < 0.05) but had no effect on the mutant 3’UTR reporter (P > 0.05). Compared with that observed in the NC and control groups, the levels of CNOT7 in the miR-126-5p overexpression group decreased (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Upregulation of miR-126-5p can inhibit the migration of the breast cancer MCF7 cell line, which may involve its direct targeting of the 3’UTR of CNOT7.
A Study on PHF-Tau Network Effected by Apolipoprotein E4
Authors: Li Yuan , Yao Zhijun , Yang Yongqing , Zhao Feng , Fu Yu , Zou Ying , Hu Bin ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2020

Apolipoprotein E 4 Allele (APOE 4) is an important factors in Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease(AD). It plays a primary role in abnormal modification of aggregated Tau protein-paired helical filaments Tau (PHF-Tau). In this study, 143 subjects with PHF-Tau PET were divided into 2 groups (APOE 4 carriers and noncarriers). The measurements of the PHF-Tau network properties and resilient were calculated for 2 group networks respectively. APOE 4 carriers group showed significant differences in all the network properties in the results. We also found significant differences of betweenness centrality in some brain regions for APOE 4 carriers. Moreover, the APOE 4 carriers showed less resilient to targeted or random node failure. Our results indicated that the effects of APOE 4 may lead to abnormalities of PHF-Tau protein network. These findings may be particularly helpful in uncovering the pathophysiology underlying the cognitive dysfunction in MCI patients.
Nicolau Syndrome Secondary to Subcutaneous Glatiramer Acetate Injection
Authors: Demircan Caner , Akdogan Neslihan , Elmas Leyla
Published: December 2020

Nicolau syndrome, also known as embolia cutis medicamentosa, is a rare complication of injectable drugs. Patients present with pain at injection site, followed by swelling, erythema, purple, hemorrhagic patches and lastly ulcer formation. A variety of intramuscular agents have been implicated as responsible. We report a case of a 26-year-old woman with a history of a purple lesion on her thigh who was diagnosed with Nicolau syndrome due to subcutaneous administration of glatiramer acetate. The patient was followed up with topical mupirocin. On follow-up, although the patient stated that she continued using glatiramer acetate, no new lesions appeared and the existing lesion continued to shrink. Nicolau syndrome seems to have an unpredictable and unavoidable course. This case suggests that physicians should have a high index of suspicion for the presence of Nicolau syndrome in patients presenting with necrotic or ulcerative lesions with a history of using injectable drugs.
Immobilization of functional biomolecules onto polypropylene fabric using plasma pre-treatment
Authors: Ma Wen-Xiao , Li Yong-Gui , Pu Cui , Wu Yi-Lin
Published: December 2020

In order to realize the immobilization of collagen, chitosan and sericin on the surface of polypropylene fabric, the fabric is treated by ammonia and nitrogen low temperature plasma to produce reactive groups, and then the epoxy compounds (ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether, trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether) are used as crosslinkers for a bridging process. Single factor experiment is carried out to investigate the influence of crosslinking parameters (temperature, time and the dosage of crosslinker) on immobilization yield. Chemical composition changes on the surface of the treated samples is analyzed by infrared spectroscopy, which indicated that the ammonia plasma treatment can produce more active groups. The results showed that immobilization rate of samples crosslinked by ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether is superior to that of trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether. It also can be found that the fabric had a better wettability and antimicrobial properties. The whiteness and comfort property of chitosan-polypropylene fabric decreased slightly.
Influence of corners and road conditions on cycling individual time trial performance and ‘optimal’ pacing strategy: A simulation study
Authors: Zignoli Andrea
Published: December 2020

A mathematical model of a bike-rider’s longitudinal and lateral dynamics was used to study the influence of road conditions (tyre-road friction coefficient) on cycling individual time trial (ITT) performance and pacing strategy. A dynamic optimisation approach was used on different simulated 40-km-ITT courses, where environmental variables (i.e. slope and wind), the presence of corners and the tyre-road friction coefficient were varied. The objective of the optimisation was the performance time. Maximal velocity was constrained by road geometry and the tyre-road friction coefficient. The maximal deliverable power output was constrained accordingly to the critical power model. The simulation results suggest that when technical sections constitute 25% of the entire course, road conditions can meaningfully affect the final performance time and peak power required, but not the pacing strategy. In fact, the time lost in slow technical sections cannot be regained during fast straight sections, even if technical sections are used to restore anaerobic energy stores. However, more experimental research is needed to test the applicability of these predictions.
Improvement of the passing quality of an American football training machine
Authors: Hollaus Bernhard , Raschner Christian , Mehrle Andreas
Published: December 2020

In American football, high quality training focused on catching is currently not done with passing machines due to their poor pass accuracy and precision. From a coach’s point of view, accurate and precise passing machines are needed to relieve the quarterback from too much training effort. The two aims of this study were to increase the precision of a passing machine and develop an accurate pass prediction model for it. To meet the two aims and provide evidence that a passing machine can be precise and accurate enough for high quality training, an automated passing machine was developed and two experiments were carried out. The results of the first experiment showed that the machine performs with a precision within ±1% of the throwing distance for 218 of the 225 passes. The second experiment resulted in a pass prediction model, which is based on 55 videos and a fitting approach using a neural network. The model estimates the machine configuration for a pass to a targeted point in space. In regard to precision and accuracy, the performance of the machine exceeds the performance of a skilled quarterback. This project improves the state of the art of passing machines for American football and opens possibilities for research in various fields like motion analysis for catches, hand-eye coordination and performance analysis of athletes.
Opportunities for education and learning in primary care genomics
Authors: Bishop Michelle , Hayward Judith , Rafi Imran
Published: December 2020

The continued evolution of the NHS Genomic Medicine Service, alongside improved accessibility to genomic testing through other routes, will increase consultations regarding genomics issues within primary care. GP trainees identify ‘genetics’ as a learning gap in their training, with anecdotal evidence suggesting that completion of this section in the curriculum is ‘challenging’. To support trainees and trainers in meeting this aspect of GP training, this article outlines relevant educational theory, initiatives and resources in genomics from a primary care perspective. This information will equip the learner with approaches and tools to promote confidence in learning and managing issues involving genomic medicine in practice.
Introduction to genomics in primary care
Authors: Whiter Alexandra , Sheridan Eamonn , Hayward Judith , Rafi Imran
Published: December 2020

Advances in genomic technology and the launch of the NHS Genomic Medicine Service (GMS) in 2018 have firmly embedded genomic testing within routine clinical care. As the gateway to the NHS, primary care practitioners will be managing increasing numbers of patients who are eligible for genomic testing, or who present with their own, or a family member’s genomic test result. This article provides an overview of recent developments in the field of genomics, explains key concepts and terminology, and details the current organisation of the genomics services under the GMS. It also discusses some common presentations within primary care to highlight the relevance of genomics to frontline GPs.
Belt and Road and China’s Attempt at Region Building in Central-East and Southeast Europe
Authors: Vangeli Anastas
Published: December 2020

This article analyses China’s Belt and Road as a medium through which novel regional development ideas and practices are being generated, (re)articulated, and diffused, via a case study of its implementation in the broader region of Central-East and Southeast Europe (CESEE). The example of CESEE shows that via the Belt and Road, Chinese actors have advanced comprehensive region work based on social interactions, which includes regular high-level diplomatic exchange and quasi-institutionalisation as well as people-to-people relations, resting on the potent geoeconomic imaginaries of the New Silk Roads. This approach, in the case of CESEE, has allowed for regional co-operation to advance even in times of friction and uncertainties. Nevertheless, as region work is essentially a contentious endeavour, China’s attempt at regionalism in CESEE has been challenged by the European Union (EU), the United States and regional actors who feel uneasy about China’s advance.
Unhealthy eating and academic stress: The moderating effect of eating style and BMI
Authors: Caso Daniela , Miriam Capasso , Rosa Fabbricatore , Mark Conner
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between stress and unhealthy eating among undergraduate students, considering the moderation effects of BMI, eating style, and nationality. A total of 748 Italian and French students completed self-report measures of academic stress, emotional eating, restrained eating, BMI, and unhealthy eating intake. Results showed that academic stress increased unhealthy food consumption in Italian students, whereas it reduced junk food consumption in French students. Negative emotional eating and BMI moderated, respectively, the impact of academic stress on sweet food intake and snacking. Finally, no clear support was found for the moderation role of restrained eating.