bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic cigarette liquid substances propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin induce an inflammatory response in gingival epithelial cells
Authors: Beklen A , Uckan D
Published: July 2020

Information on the effects of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) and on cytotoxicity and subsequent activation of the biological mediators is limited in periodontal diseases. This study analyzes the effect of unflavored PG/VG alone or in combination with nicotine on gingival epithelial cells. The cells were exposed to different PG/VG (± nicotine) concentrations for 24 h and cytotoxicity was evaluated by calorimetric 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromid assay. The expressions of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)-9 were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and a western blotting. Stimulation with PG/VG mixtures reduced cell viability compared to nonexposed controls ( p < 0.05). Adding PG/VG increased the levels of IL-6, IL-8, and MMP-9, and the amount of PG had more biological impact compared to the VG amount. The nicotine augmented this effect compared to its nicotine-free counterparts. In western blotting result, MMP-9 was clearly activated in almost all samples. These findings suggest that the main constituents PG/VG are cytotoxic and able to induce biological response in gingival cells in vitro. Despite being advertised as less harmful than conventional cigarettes, electronic cigarette liquid pose certain risks on periodontal cells. Awareness about the effects of electronic cigarettes on periodontal diseases must be increased.
Transformation of the media landscape: Infotainment versus expository narrations for communicating science in online videos
Authors: Davis Lloyd S. , León Bienvenido , Bourk Michael J. , Finkler Wiebke
Published: July 2020

Society is undergoing a transformation in the way people consume media: increasingly we are using online on-demand videos, with the fastest growing segment of online videos about science being user-generated content that uses an infotainment style of delivery, in contrast to the traditional expository narrations of professionally generated content. In this study, we produced two otherwise identical videos about climate change to test the effects of an infotainment or expository narration. A total of 870 survey participants (419 English; 451 Spanish) were randomly presented with either an infotainment or expository version of the video. The expository narration was liked and believed more, and this held irrespective of language, age, sex or online viewing habits. However, the infotainment version was liked more by viewers without a university education and, further, viewers were better able to recall information from it, suggesting that user-generated content with infotainment-style narrations may actually be good for increasing public understanding of science.
Chemical, biological, and nanoclay treatments for natural plant fiber-reinforced polymer composites: A review
Authors: Kenned Jack J , Sankaranarayanasamy K , Kumar C Suresh
Published: July 2020

Natural plant fiber-reinforced polymer composites have been in the limelight in the field of materials science for their mechanical properties, economy, and eco-friendliness. Properties of such novel composites depend on the adhesion and interaction between the fibers and the polymer matrix. Consequently, poor interaction can lead to declined mechanical properties, particularly strength. Surface modifications of fibers are carried out to enhance the bonding with the matrix by certain chemical treatments that remove hydroxyl groups in the amorphous cellulose region, making them hydrophobic and hence compatible with the matrix. Doing so also strengthens the composites, widening their scope of application. This review article provides comprehensive information about various surface modification techniques that include alkali, silane, acetylation, permanganate, peroxide, benzoylation, acrylation, acrylonitrile grafting, isocyanate, addition of maleated coupling agents, and fungal treatments. The working mechanisms and the effects of such treatments on mechanical strength are also elucidated. Furthermore, this review provides an overview of nanoclay inclusion in polymers, their addition techniques, and the augmentation of the mechanical properties of polymer matrix composites. The article concludes along with the field of applications, summary of pertinent challenges, and directions for future work.
The New Consumer Behaviour Paradigm amid COVID-19: Permanent or Transient?
Authors: Mehta Seema , Saxena Tanjul , Purohit Neetu
Published: July 2020

A critical situation pushes human behaviour towards different directions with some aspects of behaviour being irrevocable. COVID-19 pandemic is not a normal crisis, and to control the spread of disease various measures were taken including complete and then partial lockdown. Since all elements of the economy are intricately interrelated with public health measures and lockdown, this resulted in economic instabilities of the nations hinting towards change in market dynamics. In every market, consumers are the drivers of the market competitiveness, growth and economic integration. With economic instability, consumers are also experiencing a transformation in behaviour, though how much of transformation experienced during the crisis will sustain is a question. This article looks at the consumer behaviour during COVID-19 crisis and in the subsequent lockdown period when the world stood still for more than a quarter of a year. Further, the article attempts to weave through the maze of literature available about consumer behaviour in normal times and in crisis times, strengthens it with the rapid assessment reports culled out by the different consulting organisations during lockdown phase, substantiates the same with first-hand telling and retelling of experiences by consumers and professionals with marketing background to bring up a hypothesis of the pandemic affecting a paradigm shift from consumer materialism to consumer spiritualism. The proposition offers further testable hypotheses for future research to understand consumer sentiments or requirement in buying ‘what is enough’ within the marketing context and how it can be reinforced post-COVID crisis for ensuring sustainability of business models. It would also be interesting to explore the correlates of this forced consumer behaviour with other variables such as learning from crisis, changing needs, personality, nationality, culture, new market segment and age to develop new models of consumer behaviour.
Entrepreneurial Leaps: Growth Processes in Transition Phases Between Dynamic States
Authors: Sternad Dietmar , Mödritscher Gernot
Published: July 2020

We use a multiple case study approach to investigate “entrepreneurial leaps,” transition phases between dynamic states in which entrepreneurial action focused on reconfiguring key elements of the business model allows a firm to tap into new pools of resources through accessing and exploiting new market. Based on an analysis of 24 cases from three European countries, we derive a general process model of entrepreneurial leaps and identify four different patterns of how these transitions typically unfolds. The combination of dynamic states and entrepreneurial leaps can be used as a general framework for explaining nonlinear growth processes in firms.
Toward Multistate Pharmacy Practice: Enhancing Mobility and Portability of Pharmacist Licensure
Authors: Adams Alex J.
Published: July 2020

Pharmacists are licensed in all 50 states. As society becomes increasingly mobile and interconnected, several models of cross-state pharmacy practice have emerged, straining the current state-based system of licensure. The nursing profession has provided a model for license portability that offers 3 primary advantages over the current pharmacist licensure model while still protecting safety: (1) faster speed, (2) lower cost, and (3) reduced administrative burden. A hybrid approach for the pharmacy profession that builds off of the expedited license transfer model and adds a mutual recognition model is ideal.
Off-label infusion of biosimilar bevacizumab: A provincial experience
Authors: Geirnaert Marc , Howarth Jacy , Kellett Curtis , Martin Kristen , Streilein Scott , Ricard Chad , Wasney Danica , Niraula Saroj
Published: July 2020

The product monograph for reference bevacizumab (Avastin) and biosimilar bevacizumab (Mvasi) recommend to infuse the first dose of bevacizumab over 90 min, second dose over 60 min and third and subsequent doses over 30 min. Despite the product monograph recommendations, many institutions adopted an accelerated bevacizumab (Avastin) 0.5 mg/kg/min infusion time. Our province adopted the accelerated infusion time at time of biosimilar bevacizumab (Mvasi) adoption. Our experience with the accelerated infusion time was well tolerated in the first five months of biosimilar bevacizumab adoption across different tumor types.
Artefacts and influence in curriculum policy enactment: Processes, products and policy work in curriculum reform
Authors: Lambert Karen , Alfrey Laura , O’Connor Justen , Penney Dawn
Published: July 2020

Artefacts are an important part of policy work, and a means of representation, translation, re-negotiation, and resistance of policy. While research has established their integral role in policy enactment, little research has examined the production and/or dissemination of artefacts by teacher educators. This paper reports and analyses the production and re-production of a specific set of artefacts, arising from the policy work of four teacher educators seeking to influence the interpretation and enactment of the Australian Curriculum in Health and Physical Education (AC HPE). Analysis and discussion pursue: the rationale for producing a set of artefacts focusing on a particular feature of the AC HPE; the processes of artefact production; actions designed to activate and re-present the artefacts; and emerging evidence of uptake and impact. The relationship of artefacts to policy work is shown to be strategically significant for teacher educators, teachers and others invested in new curriculum developments, and is characterised as both fluid and generative. We argue that artefacts have important performative policy potential and play a key role in supporting and shaping curriculum policy enactment.
Effect of personality traits on sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception of low- and high-frequency noise
Authors: Abbasi Milad , Tokhi Mohammad Osman , Falahati Mohsen , Yazdanirad Saeid , Ghaljahi Maryam , Etemadinezhad Siavash , Jaffari Talaar Poshti Roghayeh
Published: July 2020

This paper presents investigations into a comparative assessment of the effects of low- and high-frequency noise in relation to personality traits. The high- and low-frequency noises used are produced in the research laboratory using CoolEdit software. In all, 80 candidates were exposed to equivalent continuous sound pressure level of 65 dBA of low- and high-frequency noise in an acoustic room with a 2-week interval. After 1 hour of exposure to noise, participants were asked to complete noise annoyance scale, Weinstein noise sensitivity questionnaire and loudness perception. The results obtained indicate that there is a significant difference between annoyance and perception of low-frequency noise in comparison to annoyance and perception of high-frequency noise, but no significant difference is noted between sensitivity to low- and high-frequency noise. The multivariate analysis of covariance test is applied, which reveals that personality traits have a significant effect on sensitivity to low- and high-frequency noise, annoyance due to low- and high-frequency noise, loudness perception of low-frequency noise, but no interaction effects are found. It is further shown that personality traits are more effective on sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception to high-frequency noise than those of low-frequency noise, and such effects are not only influenced by severity of noise but also by personality traits and frequency components.
Reluctant collaboration in community policing. How police team up with youth prior to 1st of May demonstrations in Germany
Authors: Porsché Yannik
Published: July 2020

Based on a 3-year ethnography on crime prevention of the police in Germany, this article analyses how the police incorporate youth in their de-escalation work preceding an annual demonstration on the 1st of May. A multimodal conversation analysis of work meetings traces how membership categorisation and assumption of social responsibility change: over the course of several months the police turn initially reluctant youth who the police at the outset considered ‘troublemakers’ into their ‘helpers’. They build an alliance by working with youth centres, influential people from the neighbourhood and participants of the previous year’s project. Whereas the police are the driving force at the beginning of the project, on the day of the demonstration they remain in the background and merely supervise the youth. This sequential development is discussed as a precarious process of disciplining the youth, driving the formation of a neighbourhood community and encouraging political consensus in society.
Book review: Dickinson, Eliot. 2017: Globalization and Migration: A World in Motion
Authors: Tesema Yonas
Published: July 2020

Dickinson, Eliot. 2017: Globalization and Migration: A World in Motion. Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield. xiv + 181 pp., US$104 (Hardback). ISBN: 978-144-225-496-1.
Book review: Spary, C. 2019: Gender, Development, and the State in India
Authors: Stock Ryan
Published: July 2020

Spary, C. 2019: Gender, Development, and the State in India. Routledge. xiii + 257 pp. US$124 (Hardback). ISBN: 978-0-415-61060-5.
Applying mixed methods action research to explore how public participation in an Indian City could better resolve urban sustainability problems
Authors: Menon Sanskriti , Hartz-Karp Janette
Published: July 2020

Public participation in governance is regarded as a key element in enhancing urban sustainability. While there is a wealth of participation efforts in Indian cities, there are inadequate processes for regular, inclusive, egalitarian, informed and well-structured democratic participation that provide a real say to citizens in public decision-making. ‘Deliberative democracy’ has emerged as one way to improve effective public participation in decision-making, though it is mostly prevalent in developed countries. An action research initiative was implemented over several years in Pune, India. It used mixed methods to introduce and assess the applicability to the Indian urban context of high-quality public deliberations. This article presents a case study of a deliberative democracy initiative, framing the transformative public involvement needed to address sustainability problems. It also shows how the integration of the mixed methods approach in the action research to design and facilitate deliberative participation processes, helped to broaden and deepen understanding, and enhanced the transformative capacity of the research design.
A Scoping Review of Literature About Mental Health and Well-Being Among Immigrant Communities in the United States
Authors: Rodriguez Darlene Xiomara , Hill Jessica , McDaniel Paul N.
Published: July 2020

Immigration—both the experience of migrating and events after migration—can affect the mental health and well-being of immigrants and their communities. However, evidence suggests that immigrants in the United States do not access mental health services to the same extent as nonimmigrants. In particular, immigrant adolescents and young adults may have unique stressors related to their developmental stage, experiences in school and with peer groups, and shifting roles within family systems. This scoping review summarizes findings from published research studies and practitioner-focused gray literature about the mental health needs of immigrant communities in the United States. The review finds that specific mental health needs vary across factors like age, racial/ethnic group, immigration status, and place of residency. Findings also indicate that structural factors like immigration-related laws affect both access to mental health services and stressors in the overall environment for immigrants and their families. This review also explores models of community-level initiatives that utilize strengths-based approaches to promoting mental health and well-being among immigrant communities. Findings highlight the need for a better understanding of the mental health needs and current barriers to care among diverse immigrant populations, as immigration continues to play a major role in U.S. public policy and discourse. The COVID-19 pandemic taking place as this article goes to press in 2020 also raises questions regarding health equity and access for marginalized populations, including immigrants and their communities, and so these findings also indicate the need for further interdisciplinary research to assess intersections among the pandemic’s many impacts, including those related to mental health and well-being.
Public Opinion and Death Penalty Policy Under Direct Democracy Institutions: A Longitudinal Analysis of the American States
Authors: Caron Christian
Published: July 2020

Capital punishment remains legal in most U.S. states even though only a small number of them regularly impose it. I attribute the persistence of death penalty statutes to the existence of direct democracy institutions in about half the states. Applying a longitudinal research design that leverages annual estimates of state death penalty opinion, I show that these institutions strengthen the connection between public opinion and capital punishment’s legality, indicating that they foster policy responsiveness. By extension, because citizens have generally favored capital punishment, I find that direct democracy states are more likely to have the death penalty. I also demonstrate that direct democracy increases the likelihood that policy will be congruent with majority opinion, especially in states where opinion leans strongly in one direction. The representation-enhancing effect of direct democracy, however, does not extend to the punishment’s application, as measured by states’ issuance of death sentences.
Resistive network model of the weft-knitted strain sensor with the plating stitch-Part 1: Resistive network model under static relaxation
Authors: Zhang Yujing , Long Hairu
Published: July 2020

The resistive network model of the weft-knitted strain sensor with the plating stitch under static relaxation is studied based on the knitted loop structure and circuit principle. The prepared sensors are divided into the sensing area and the non-sensing area. The former consists of the conductive face yarn and the insulated elastic ground yarn, while the latter includes the normal face yarn and the same ground yarn. The loop of conductive face yarn not only produces length-related resistance but also causes the jamming contact resistances along the width and length direction. Besides, the elastic ground yarn has a potential impact on the contact situation of the conductive face yarn at the interlocking point, determining whether the interlocking contact resistance exists. Therefore, two resistive network models have been established accordingly. In addition to the length-related resistance, the first model focused on both the jamming and interlocking contact resistances, while the second one only dealt with the jamming contact resistance. In the case of applying voltage along the two ends of the course, the theoretical calculations of the corresponding network models were performed using a series of equivalent transformations. Finally, the correctness and usability of the two models were verified through experiments and model calculations. It was found that both models can predict that the equivalent resistance increases with the conductive wale number and decreases with the conductive course number. It was implied that the first model’s calculating resistances are closer to the experimental data and lower than those of the second model. The difference in the calculating resistances of the two models would become smaller as the course number increases. Thus, the investigation indicates that the jamming contact resistance has a more considerable influence on the resistive network than the interlocking contact resistance.
Modernity in the wilderness? Architects’ role in developing rural Hungary, 1930–1960
Authors: Ferkai András
Published: July 2020

The aim of this article is to survey a longer period in Hungarian architecture starting from around 1930 and into the 1960s in order to investigate how subsequent generations of modern architects related to the social and housing problems of the countryside. It is widely held that although social sensitivity was a dominant feature of the modernist agenda, it was limited to an urban context, with little regard for rural areas unfamiliar to the movement’s leading proponents. Since the most radical and best-organized group of Hungarian architects was a section of the international organization Congrès Internationaux d’Architecture Moderne, their theoretical work was largely guided by the group’s centre in Zürich. This article traces some of the visions that were set against these ‘imported ideas’ and the extent to which these visions could be realized under the Horthy regime, which was at the time gradually moving towards the far-right. Furthermore, it maps the process that led to the confrontation between modernists and regionalists in the early 1940s. It also shows how the bipolar discourse revolving around social modernization was resolved by the democratic transformations of 1945, which set the stage for temporary cooperation between rivalling factions and led to architects reaching an understanding with reconstruction in mind. However, the hope for a strong and independent farming class and long-term development and planning policies backed by peasant parties was dashed by the communist breakthrough in 1948 As a result, the issue of rural housing would be raised anew only in the 1960s, when the Kádár regime made concessions to the collectivized peasantry. In the final section of this article, I will discuss why both the functionalist modern and regionalist models offered by architects failed. The family house type, which had been spontaneously developed by ‘self-help building’ and was condemned by the architecture profession in a new debate of the 1960s, cannot be explained by mere ideological or cultural discrepancies but through a profound socio-psychological analysis.
Constructing the world of equal opportunities: The case of architect Vladimir Antolić
Authors: Bjažić Klarin Tamara
Published: July 2020

Discourse in the field of architecture and urban planning remained essentially the same in Croatia from the 1930s until the Second World War, and then until the mid 1950s, despite radically changing socio-political systems. This should be credited to Zagreb-based ‘salaried architects’. In the 1930s, they pointed to a major social problem—the substandard living conditions present throughout the country. Questioning the implementation of projects and plans within liberal capitalism, some even entered politics. In post-war socialist Yugoslavia, the circumstances radically changed. Reviewing these pre-war and post-war stages as a single process, this article highlights to the contributions of architect Vladimir Antolić (1903–1981), one of the first trained urban planners in Croatia and a member of International Congress of Modern Architecture. It will demonstrate how his work on the Zagreb Regulation Plan helped to define key issues of urban planning practices in Yugoslavia and show the significance of the so-called European ‘periphery’ in the modern movement’s narrative.
Secondary Relining With Focal Flaring of Novel-Generation Balloon-Expandable Covered Stents for Endovascular Treatment of Significant Diameter Mismatch in the Aorto-Iliac Territory
Authors: D’Oria Mario , Griselli Filippo , Mastrorilli Davide , Gorgatti Filippo , Bassini Silvia , Riccitelli Francesco , Calvagna Cristiano , Zamolo Francesca , Lepidi Sandro
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to report on the safety and feasibility of secondary relining with focal flaring of novel-generation balloon-expandable covered stents for endovascular treatment of significant diameter mismatch in the aorto-iliac territory. Significant diameter mismatch was defined as >20% difference in the nominal diameter between the intended proximal and distal landing zones.

Methods

Patient A was an 84-year-old man with prior abdominal aortic aneurysm open repair with a straight 20 mm Dacron tube. He presented with a right common iliac artery aneurysm (Ø88 mm) with contained rupture. The Gore Viabahn endoprosthesis (9 mm × 5 cm) was inserted proximally about 15 mm above the occluded ostium of the internal iliac artery. Subsequently, the BeGraft Aortic® (16 mm × 48 mm) was inserted proximally up to the common iliac artery origin; its proximal portion was flared to 22 mm. Patient B was a 77-year-old man with prior endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair with a Medtronic Endurant stent-graft. He presented with occlusion of the right limb of the aortic endoprosthesis and thrombosis that extended down to the level of the superficial femoral artery. After mechanical thrombectomy, two Gore Viabahn endoprosthesis (first one, 8 mm × 10 cm; second one, 10 mm × 15 cm) were inserted into the right iliac limb. Subsequently, the BeGraft Aortic® (12mm × 39mm) was inserted proximally up to the gate of the aortic stent-graft; its proximal portion was flared to 16 mm.

Results

Technical success and clinical success were achieved in both patients. Imaging follow-up (6 months for Patient A, 12 months for Patient B) showed correct placement of all stent-grafts without any graft-related adverse event. The patients remained free from new reinterventions or recurrent symptoms. Patient A died 8 months after the index procedure from acute respiratory failure after community acquired pneumonia.

Conclusion

Secondary relining with focal flaring of novel-generation balloon-expandable covered stents for endovascular treatment of significant diameter mismatch in the aorto-iliac territory is safe and feasible. Although mid-term results seem to be effective, longer follow-up is warranted to establish durability of the technique.
Comparison of the Effect of Acids in Solvent Mixtures for Extraction of Phenolic Compounds From Aronia melanocarpa
Authors: Petreska Stanoeva Jasmina , Balshikevska Elena , Stefova Marina , Tusevski Oliver , Simic Sonja G.
Published: July 2020

Thirty-two different solvent mixtures containing methanol and acid (acetic, formic, and hydrochloric); methanol, water, and acid; and pure methanol were tested for their efficiency for extraction of phenolic compounds from aronia ( Aronia melanocarpa) belonging to the groups of anthocyanins, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. Thirteen compounds were detected and quantified in the extracts using HPLC/DAD/ESI-MS n. The yield of each compound and group was evaluated with regard to the extraction solvent composition. Extraction mixtures containing HCl were superior to the ones containing acetic or formic acid for the extraction yield of total phenolic compounds, which was especially pronounced for anthocyanins. The solvent mixture containing methanol/water/HCl (90:8:2, v/v/v) gave best results for the qualitative and quantitative assay of anthocyanins. However, this solvent mixture caused O-methylation of 3- and 5-caffeoylquinic acids transforming them to 3- and 5-feruloylquinic acids, respectively, during extraction. This peculiar finding must be taken into account during sample preparation for the analysis of polyphenols in any sample. It was observed that this O-methylation is specific for dihydroxycinnamic acid compounds containing neighboring hydroxyl groups. These results suggest the need for a detailed study of the behavior of various polyphenolic compounds during extraction with solvent mixtures containing methanol/HCl since it is very often used for the analysis of anthocyanins.
Current understanding of hypothalamic amenorrhoea
Authors: Roberts Rachel E. , Farahani Linda , Webber Lisa , Jayasena Channa
Published: July 2020

Hypothalamic amenorrhoea (HA) accounts for approximately 30% of cases of secondary amenorrhoea in women of reproductive age. It is caused by deficient secretion of hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, which in turn leads to failure of pituitary gonadotrophin and gonadal steroid release. Functional HA (FHA) is defined as HA occurring in the absence of a structural lesion and is predominantly caused by significant weight loss, intense exercise or stress. Treatment of FHA is crucial in avoiding the long-term health consequences on fertility and bone health, in addition to reducing psychological morbidity. This article summarises our understanding of the mechanisms underlying FHA, the evidence base for its clinical management and emerging therapies.
Comparing 60 versus 120 shocks per minute for shock-wave lithotripsy of solitary renal calculi: A controlled randomized study
Authors: Ali Tamer A , Abdelaal Mohamed A , Amin Moamen M , Saif-Elnasr Mohamed K
Published: July 2020

Objective:

This study aimed to compare the difference in outcome of shock-wave lithotripsy (SWL) using a slow rate of 60 shocks per minute versus a rapid rate of 120 shocks per minute generated by an electromagnetic lithotripter for renal calculi.

Methods:

From May 2017 to June 2019, 156 patients ( Mage=38.7 years) with single radio-opaque renal stones smaller than 20 mm were included and randomly divided into two groups: group A, 78 patients who received 60 shocks per minute; and group B, 78 patients who received 120 shocks per minute. Patients were radiologically reviewed at 3 months for an outcome.

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference between mean stone area treated ( p=0.222) or additional analgesic use in the form of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA; alfentanil; p=0.82). A successful outcome was defined by fragments smaller than 4 mm or stone-free status. In group A, 60% of patients had a successful outcome compared with 61.4% in group B ( p=0.869) following a single treatment. Post-treatment complications were similar in both groups at 12% for group A and 10.7% for group B ( p=0.797).

Conclusions:

There was no statistically significant difference between the delivery of 60 and 120 shocks per minute during SWL for the treatment of solitary renal stones with a mean stone area of 62 mm2 regarding the outcome, complications or PCA use when using a Dornier Compact Delta II lithotripter.
Major League Baseball Broadcasts and the Delineation of Traditional and Modern Fact Metrics
Authors: Arth Zachary W. , Billings Andrew C.
Published: July 2020

This study analyzed fans' knowledge and acceptance of baseball statistics portrayed on regional broadcasts, with a particular emphasis on modern/advanced statistics. By way of Major League Baseball (MLB) team subreddits, fans were surveyed and quizzed on their knowledge of a variety of baseball statistics; they were also surveyed regarding how new or old school they are as a fan, as well as their levels of Schwabism and mavenism. Results indicated that MLB team broadcasts placing greater emphasis on modern statistics produce fans who are more accepting of and knowledgeable about advanced statistics. While new-school fans and those high in Schwabism and mavenism were found to be more favorable towards modern statistics, controlling for those attributes strengthened the association between team broadcast and modern statistical acceptance and knowledge. Through the lens of social cognitive theory, potential ramifications for statistical portrayals and the influence on both learning and unlearning are discussed.
Reconstruction of massive knee defects with extensor mechanism deficiency through concurrent anterolateral thigh flap and autogenous hamstring tendon: A report of two cases
Authors: Liu Wen-Chih , Chang Chih-Hau , Lu Cheng-Chang , Fu Yin-Chih , Lu Chun-Kuan
Published: July 2020

Reconstruction of an infected knee joint with a large defect and extensor mechanism deficiency is challenging. In this study, we aim to describe a one-stage reconstruction surgery and provide its surgical outcome. Two patients had patellar open fracture and subsequent septic arthritis; in addition, a large soft tissue defect, loss of patella, and shortening of the patellar tendon were observed. The semitendinosus–gracilis tendon formed a loop to stabilize the patella. A free or supercharged reverse pedicle myocutaneous anterolateral thigh flap with fascial extension is designed to fill the defect and eradicate the infection. Mean clinical follow-up was 18 months. Although some limitation in the knee range of motion was observed, the dynamometer showed only partial loss in peak concentric power and eccentric power. We developed an innovative surgical procedure to alleviate infection and reconstruct a complex knee defect with extensor mechanism deficiency; this procedure resulted in favorable clinical outcomes.
Preoperative Complete Patellofemoral Dislocation in Extension Predicts an Inferior Clinical Outcome After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction in Patients With Recurrent Patellar Dislocation
Authors: Zhang ZhiJun , Song GuanYang , Ni QianKun , Zheng Tong , Cao Yanwei , Feng Zheng , Zhang Hui , Feng Hua
Published: July 2020

Background:

Habitual patellar dislocation in extension (HPD-E) is a distinctive subtype of recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD); HPD-E represents the most severe type of patellar maltracking in RPD. It has been reported that the presence of preoperative patellar maltracking is associated with a worse clinical outcome after medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction (MPFL-R).

Purpose:

To describe the radiological characteristics of HPD-E and to compare clinical outcomes after MPFL-R among patients with and without preoperative HPD-E.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

From January 2012 to December 2015, a total of 230 consecutive patients (246 knees) with RPD were treated with MPFL-R alone or combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy. Among them, 28 patients diagnosed with HPD-E by preoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography (CT; HPD-E group) were matched in a 1:1 fashion to 28 control participants who did not show HPD-E (control group). Routine radiography and CT were performed to evaluate patellar height, trochlear dysplasia, tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance, and torsional deformities. The mean patellar laxity index and lateral patellar translation assessed with stress radiography were measured preoperatively and postoperatively to quantify MPFL laxity. At minimum 2-year follow-up, patient-reported outcomes (Kujala, Lysholm, and Tegner scores), patellar maltracking, and redislocation rates were compared between the HPD-E and control groups.

Results:

The radiological characteristics of the HPD-E group were as follows: 89% (25/28) of patients had severe trochlear dysplasia (Dejour type B or D), and the mean femoral anteversion angle was 35.5° ± 4.7°. At the final follow-up, the HPD-E group had a significantly lower Kujala score (76.2 vs 84.5, respectively; P = .001), Lysholm score (75.4 vs 86.6, respectively; P < .001), and Tegner score (4.1 vs 5.8, respectively; P = .021) compared with the control group. The postoperative patellar laxity index (43% vs 19%, respectively; P < .001) and redislocation rate (25% vs 0%, respectively; P = .01) were significantly higher in the HPD-E group than in the control group.

Conclusion:

Preoperative 3-dimensional CT is a reliable method of identfying patients with HPD-E. Treatment of HPD-E by MPFL-R alone or combined with tibial tubercle osteotomy resulted in a higher redislocation rate, more severe MPFL residual laxity, and lower patient-reported outcome scores compared with patients without HPD-E who underwent MPFL-R.
A Liver Biopsy Validation Pilot Study of Shear Wave Elastography, APRI, FIB-4, and Novel Serum Biomarkers for Liver Fibrosis Staging in Children With Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Mercedes Rebecca , Brown Jameisha , Minard Charles , Tsai Cynthia M. , Devaraj Sridevi , Munden Marthe , Leung Daniel
Published: July 2020

As liver biopsy in children poses inherent risks, noninvasive measures of liver fibrosis are needed. This was a cross-sectional, liver biopsy validation pilot study of 16 participants evaluating the ability of shear wave elastography, aspartate transaminase to platelet ratio index (APRI), fibrosis index based on the 4 factors, and novel serum biomarkers to stage liver fibrosis in children with chronic hepatitis B or C. There was very high intrasegmental shear wave speed variation in our participants and little correlation with fibrosis. APRI and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1) were higher in fibrosis stage F2-3 versus F0-1 ( P = .02, P = .06, respectively). Soluble Fas (sFas) was lower in F2-3 versus F0-1 ( P = .046). A logistic regression analysis calculated by (APRI × MCP-1)/sFas demonstrated an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.92 ( P < .001), suggesting that this combination can differentiate fibrosis stage F0-1 from F2-3 in children with chronic viral hepatitis.
Effect of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic on Pediatric Resident Well-Being
Authors: Sanghavi Pooja B , Au Yeung Karla , Sosa Carmela E , Veesenmeyer Angela F , Limon Jolie A , Vijayan Vini
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

This study aims to identify factors specific to the COVID-19 pandemic that affect resident physicians’ well-being, identify potential sources of anxiety, and assess for depression and stress among residents.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was performed in April 2020 that evaluated resident perceptions about COVID-19 pandemic, its impact on their personal lifestyle, and coping mechanisms adopted. The respondents also completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Cohen Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10).

Results:

Of 37 residents, 29 completed the survey for a response rate of 78%. We found that 50% of residents harbored increased anxiety due to the pandemic and reported fears of spreading disease. Factors that negatively impacted their well-being included social isolation from colleagues (78%), inability to engage in outdoor activities (82%), and social gatherings (86%). Residents expressed concern about the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on their didactic education and clinical rotations. The mean PSS-10 total score was 17 (SD = 4.96, range = 0-33) and the mean BDI-II total score was 6.79 (SD = 6.00). Our residents adopted a number of coping mechanisms in response to COVID-19.

Conclusions:

We identified factors specific to the COVID-19 pandemic that adversely affected resident physician well-being. Trainees were concerned about the risk of developing COVID-19 and spreading this to their family. Residents also harbored anxiety regarding the effect of COVID-19 on their education. Lifestyle changes including social isolation also resulted in a negative effect on resident well-being. Developing strategies and resources directed to addressing these concerns may help support well-being and alleviate stress and anxiety.
Urban modeling for streets using vector cellular automata: Framework and its application in Beijing
Authors: Jia Zimu , Chen Long , Chen Jingjia , Lyu Guowei , Zhou Ding , Long Ying
Published: July 2020

Zones, cells, and parcels have long been regarded as the main units of analysis in urban modeling. However, only limited attention has been paid to street-level urban modeling. The emergence of fine-scale open and new data available from various sources has created substantial opportunities for research on urban modeling at the street level, particularly for modeling the spatiotemporal process of urban phenomena. In this paper, the street is adopted as the spatial unit of an urban model, and a conceptual framework for such modeling based on cellular automata is proposed. The validity of the proposed framework is verified by an empirical application to the urban space within the Fifth Ring Road in Beijing from 2014 to 2018. The results show that the density of points of interest simulated by the cellular automata model for 2018 is basically consistent with the actual distribution according to direct observation, and there is no significant difference in the proportion of high, medium, and low points of interest density streets between different ring roads. In addition, the deviation rate and Kappa index are 0.1171 and 0.97, respectively, indicating the proposed model can replicate historical patterns well and predict the transition of points of interest density at the street level. Subsequently, we considered three scenarios, adopting 2018 as the base year and using the proposed model to simulate the distribution of points of interest density in 2022 and the changes in points of interest density from 2018 to 2022. The conceptual framework and empirical application also provide support for urban planning and design based on the integration of linear public space and big data.
Impact of Coleman Block Test on Adult Hindfoot Alignment Assessed by Clinical Examination, Radiography, and Weight-Bearing Computed Tomography
Authors: Foran Ian M. , Mehraban Nasima , Jacobsen Stephen K. , Bohl Daniel D. , Lin Johnny , Hamid Kamran S. , Lee Simon
Published: July 2020

Background:

Cavovarus foot constitutes a complex 3-dimensional deformity. The Coleman block test has traditionally been used to distinguish between forefoot- and hindfoot-driven deformity. However, there has been no objective evaluation of the Coleman block test using radiographs or weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT). The purpose of this study was to compare hindfoot alignment in adult cavovarus feet with and without the Coleman block using clinical examination, radiography, and WBCT.

Methods:

Six feet in 6 patients with a clinical diagnosis of cavovarus foot deformity were prospectively enrolled. All feet underwent clinical photography with the camera positioned at 0 degrees to the heel, hindfoot alignment view radiography with the beam positioned 20 degrees off the ground, and WBCT, both with and without the Coleman block in place. Clinical photos were characterized using the standing talocalcaneal angle (STCA), radiographs were characterized using the hindfoot alignment angle (HAA), and WBCTs were characterized using manual and automated hindfoot alignment angle (HAA) and foot and ankle offset (FAO). Using paired analyses, measurements taken with the Coleman block in place were compared to those taken without the Coleman block. Finally, the different methods of measuring hindfoot alignment were tested for correlation with each other. Mean age was 56 years (range 38-69).

Results:

On clinical photography, the STCA decreased by 3.8 degrees with addition of the block (from 10.0±6.6 degrees varus without block to 6.2±7.1 degrees varus with block; P = .001). On radiograph, HAA decreased by 9.0 degrees with addition of the block (from 16.8±8.4 degrees varus without block to 7.5±6.3 degrees varus with block; P = .07). On WBCT, hindfoot alignment angle changed an average of 3.2 degrees (33.4 degrees varus without block, 30.2 degrees varus with block; P = .008). On WBCT, FAO decreased by 1.4% (from 11.3% varus without block to 10.1% varus with block; P = .003). Clinical examination and automated WBCT measurements were strongly correlated with each other.

Conclusion:

Clinical examination, radiograph, and WBCT demonstrated improvements in hindfoot varus using the Coleman block test in adults, but no patient demonstrated complete resolution of deformity regardless of the measurement modality. Clinical examination correlated strongly with automated WBCT measurements.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case review.
Efficiency of ground motion intensity measures with earthquake-induced earth dam deformations
Authors: Armstrong Richard , Kishida Tadahiro , Park DongSoon
Published: July 2020

In a seismic hazard analysis (SHA), the earthquake loading level should be predicted for one or more ground motion intensity measures (IMs) that are expected to relate well with the engineering demand parameters (EDPs) of the site. In this study, the goal was to determine the IMs that best relate to embankment dam deformations based on nonlinear deformation analysis (NDA) results of two embankment dams with a large suite of recorded ground motions. The measure utilized to determine the “best” IM was standard deviation in the engineering demand parameter (e.g., deformation) for a given IM, also termed “efficiency.” Results of the study demonstrated that for the NDA model used, Arias intensity (AI) was found to be the most efficient predictor of embankment dam deformations. In terms of pseudo-spectral acceleration (PSA)-based IMs, the PSA at short periods and then in the general range of the natural period of the dams was seen to be the most efficient IM, but was in almost all cases not as efficient as AI.
Metagenomic data-mining reveals enrichment of trimethylamine-N-oxide synthesis in gut microbiome in atrial fibrillation patients
Authors: Zuo Kun , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Pan , Jiao Jie , Han Chunming , Liu Zheng , Yin Xiandong , Li Jing , Yang Xinchun
Published: July 2020

Background

The gut bacteria-derived metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) has been discussed in various cardiometabolic diseases. However, evidence characterizing the microbial population responsible for TMAO accumulation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), an increasingly prevalent arrhythmia, is yet lacking. In order to understand the key gut microorganisms that produce TMAO in AF, trimethylamine (TMA)-synthesis enzymes and metabolic pathways, as well as the potential TMA-producers in gut microbiome were assessed based on metagenomic data-mining in a northern Chinese cohort consisting of 50 non-AF controls and 50 patients with different types of AF.

Results

Compared to the control subjects, AF patients showed a marked increase in the microbial genes underlying TMA formation in the gut, which included 12 potential TMA-synthesis functional orthologs and 1 module. The specific bacterial genes, including choline-TMA lyase, carnitine monooxygenase, glycine betaine reductase, and TMAO reductase, were elevated in the gut of AF patients. Furthermore, 16 genera were assigned and significantly correlated with TMA-enzymatic genes, where 9 genera were remarkably enriched in the gut communities of AF patients. Neither of these TMA-synthesis pathways nor the microbial players showed a significant discrepancy between different types of AF in the current cohort. These gut microbes might participate in the formation of TMA by activating the key TMA-synthesis enzymes and contributing to the functional pathways in AF patients.

Conclusions

The present study provides an in-depth insight into the potential bacteria and metabolic pathways involved in TMA production in the gut of AF patients. These findings emphasize a key role of the gut bacteria in driving TMAO formation during AF pathogenesis, thereby indicating its therapeutic potential as an intervention strategy of AF by targeting TMA-synthesis pathways and dysbiotic gut microbiota.