bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The protective role of luteolin against the methotrexate-induced hepato-renal toxicity via its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects in rats
Authors: Dar AA , Fehaid A , Alkhatani S , Alarifi S , Alqahtani WS , Albasher G , Almeer R , Alfarraj S , Moneim AE Abdel
Published: February 2021

Methotrexate (MTX) is frequently used drug in treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, MTX has many side effects including the hepato-renal toxicity. In this study, we hypothesized that Luteolin (Lut) exhibits protective effect against the MTX-induced hepato-renal toxicity. In order to investigate our hypothesis, the experiment was designed to examine the effect of exposure of male rats to MTX (20 mg/kg, i.p., at day 9) alone or together with Lut (50 mg/kg, oral for 14 days) compared to the control rats (received saline). The findings demonstrated that MTX treatment induced significant increases in the liver and kidney functions markers in serum samples including Aspartate transaminase (AST), Alanine transaminase (ALT), creatinine, urea and uric acid. MTX also mediated an oxidative stress expressed by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) level and decreased level of reduced glutathione (GSH), antioxidant enzyme activities, and downregulation of the Nrf2 gene expression as an antioxidant trigger. Moreover, the inflammatory markers (NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-1β) were significantly elevated upon MTX treatment. In addition, MTX showed an apoptotic response mediated by elevating the pro-apoptotic (Bax) and lowering the anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) proteins. All of these changes were confirmed by the observed alterations in the histopathological examination of the hepatic and renal tissues. Lut exposure significantly reversed all the MTX-induced changes in the measured parameters suggesting its potential protective role against the MTX-induced toxicity. Finally, our findings concluded the antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of Lut as a mechanism of its protective role against the MTX-induced hepato-renal toxicity in rats.
Machine learning algorithms to predict seizure due to acute tramadol poisoning
Authors: Behnoush B , Bazmi E , Nazari SH , Khodakarim S , Looha MA , Soori H
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

This study was designed to develop and evaluate machine learning algorithms for predicting seizure due to acute tramadol poisoning, identifying high-risk patients and facilitating appropriate clinical decision-making.

Methods:

Several characteristics of acute tramadol poisoning cases were collected in the Emergency Department (ED) (2013–2019). After selecting important variables in random forest method, prediction models were developed using the Support Vector Machine (SVM), Naïve Bayes (NB), Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and K-Nearest Neighbor (K-NN) algorithms. Area Under the Curve (AUC) and other diagnostic criteria were used to assess performance of models.

Results:

In 909 patients, 544 (59.8%) experienced seizures. The important predictors of seizure were sex, pulse rate, arterial blood oxygen pressure, blood bicarbonate level and pH. SVM (AUC = 0.68), NB (AUC = 0.71) and ANN (AUC = 0.70) models outperformed k-NN model (AUC = 0.58). NB model had a higher sensitivity and negative predictive value and k-NN model had higher specificity and positive predictive values than other models.

Conclusion:

A perfect prediction model may help improve clinicians’ decision-making and clinical care at EDs in hospitals and medical settings. SVM, ANN and NB models had no significant differences in the performance and accuracy; however, validated logistic regression (LR) was the superior model for predicting seizure due to acute tramadol poisoning.
Interactions between emotional and cognitive engagement with science on YouTube
Authors: Dubovi Ilana , Tabak Iris
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to map and characterize public engagement with science on YouTube. A two-part study was conducted. First, we collected and quantitatively analyzed trending videos on YouTube to evaluate the magnitude of public interaction with science content. Then, we assessed actual, rather than self-reports of, media interactions with science-related YouTube trending videos. We tested associations between behavioral engagement of viewing, liking, disliking or commenting, and emotional and cognitive engagement. Our findings affirm that science content attracts high public interest and that emotional and cognitive engagement with science on social media are distinct, but interrelated. We show that regardless of the valence of emotional engagement, emotion is linked to greater behavioral engagement of posting comments and to greater cognitive engagement of argumentative deliberation. Therefore, our findings suggest that social media interactions, which tend to evoke emotional responses, are a promising means of advancing person-to-person engagement with science.
Effect of hydrothermal ageing on the mechanical behaviour of graphene nanoplatelets reinforced basalt fibre epoxy composite pipes
Authors: Sepetcioglu Harun , Gunoz Alper , Kara Memduh
Published: February 2021

This research studies the effect of the addition of graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) on the mechanical behaviour of composite pipe materials exposed to hydrothermal ageing, aiming to increase their service life. For this reason, 0.25 wt.% GnPs reinforced and unreinforced filament wound basalt fibre reinforced epoxy composite pipes (BFRPs) were produced. BFRPs were exposed to a hydrothermal ageing process in order to examine the effects of water absorption behaviour on mechanical properties. Hydrothermal ageing processes were carried out by immersing the samples in distilled water at 80°C for different periods such as 15, 30, 45 and 60 days. Following the ASTM standards, the tensile, density and hardness properties of water-exposed GnPs reinforced and unreinforced BFRPs were examined and compared with unexposed specimens. As a result, while water absorption caused a remarkable loss in the mechanical properties of BFRPs, the adverse effects of water absorption on mechanical properties were minimized by the presence of GnPs.
Asymmetric Impact of Working Capital Efficiency on Market Performance of Indian Firms
Authors: Banerjee Aditya , Kundu Sayantan , Sivasankaran Narayanasamy
Published: February 2021

This study aims to explore the true nature of the impact of working capital management (WCM) efficiency, measured by cash conversion cycle (CCC), on the stock market performance (proxied by stock’s Alpha) of Indian non-financial firms. The article presents four possible models from literature and argues why the relationship should be non-linear. Generalized method of moments (GMM) estimation is used on firm-level data of 718 Indian firms from 11 industries listed in the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) from 2011 to 2017. A negative relationship is confirmed. However, contrary to prior findings, neither a quadratic relationship nor the deviations from industry median CCC can explain the relationship for Indian firms. Therefore, firms are divided into CCC decile-based equally weighted portfolios and estimation of a threshold level of CCC is carried out iteratively. Threshold thus obtained is validated at the firm level, using dynamic panel through GMM estimation. The novelty of this study is that it is the first one to propose the possibility of a universal threshold level of working capital (WC) efficiency and its impact on the market performance of firms in India. The article argues that in India, due to uncertainties in supply chains, firms, as well as the investors, prefer a threshold level of investment in WC. If CCC is above the threshold level, firms’ excess stock returns fall significantly, while there is no impact below the threshold level. The study is relevant for managers so that they can maintain WC below a threshold level, as well as for investors who can use the threshold WC criteria for valuation and selection of stocks.
Does Network Effect Have an Influence on the Acceptance of Airbnb?
Authors: Vieira Kelly Carvalho , Pinto Guilherme Alcântara , Sugano Joel Yutaka , Carvalho Eduardo Gomes , Grutzmann Andre
Published: February 2021

Companies operating in the service sector have provided a shared economy platform to optimize the use of resources. The concepts like acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2) and network effect were used to analyse how the network effect moderates the acceptance of a peer-to-peer application. A cross-sectional survey was used as a research method through self-administered Internet questionnaires which were adapted and applied to guests and hosts, as both need to accept the technology. It was decided to use SmartPLS software. Users are more interested in the opinions of their reference group when deciding to use Airbnb. The belief that there is technical infrastructure that supports the use of the app influences the desire to use it, especially when users begin to realize the increased benefits generated by the growth of other users. Price imposes a significant effect on behavioural intention; however, when it is added the network effect as a moderator, the relationship loses significance. It indicates that the value of hosting does not influence platform acceptance when it already has a significant number of users. This study used one of the most influential and comprehensive theories in the adoption of technology as a basis for conceptualization and expanded it with an important construct originating from studies on economic theories. In addition, this study presents its uniqueness by introducing a theoretical construct into a moderating action and using structural equation modelling to understand the consumer behaviour of these technologies, having, above all, a potential for theoretical contributions relevant to the research area.
The Gift of Solidarity: Women Navigating Jewellery Work and Patriarchal Norms in Rural West Bengal, India
Authors: Majumder Sarasij
Published: February 2021

In the context of declining women’s participation in the formal economy in India, this article looks at how women’s work in the informal sector of jewellery-making emerges as a gift. Gendered discourses on work turn men, who worked as labourers, into supervisors who monitor and control work situations and sort and grade final products in jewellery workshops. Following Anna Tsing, I argue that jewellery products start their lives as gifts but as they move from women (who are seen as housewives and family members) to men (who are seen as professionals/experts within the workshop) and beyond, they become commodities. This journey from gift to commodity within the workshop is made possible by a gendered discourse on work and by the dynamics within small landholding middle-caste households. Further, I underscore that women’s informal networks often help them cope with the emotional and affective tensions of work and the demands imposed on them by the men and their own households. Women facilitate the transition from gift to commodity by colluding amongst themselves to work in these informal spaces to maintain household status within peri-urban villages of West Bengal.
Basic Newborn Resuscitation: Health Care Providers’ Level of Knowledge and Factors Affecting in the Hospitals of Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mersha Abera , Shibiru Shitaye , Gultie Teklemariam , Degefa Nega , Bante Agegnehu
Published: February 2021

Background:

The health care provider’s knowledge and clinical experience determine the success of newborn resuscitation. Adequate knowledge of health care providers on newborn resuscitation is vital to avert adverse neonatal outcomes. But, a few studies assessed health care providers’ level of knowledge on basic newborn resuscitation, including Ethiopia.

Objective:

To assess the health care provider’s level of knowledge on basic newborn resuscitation and factors affecting it.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional survey, 445 health care providers involved by using a simple random sampling method from the hospitals of southern Ethiopia. The data were collected by self-administered questionnaires and an observational checklist. A binary logistic regression model was used and P-value < .05 was considered to declare a statistically significant association.

Results:

Health care providers with an adequate level of knowledge on basic newborn resuscitation indicated 76.2% (95% CI [72.2%, 80.3%]). Age, training, recent involvement in basic newborn resuscitation, and the well-equipped facility had shown significant association.

Conclusions:

This study indicated that adequate knowledge of health care providers on basic newborn resuscitation was optimum. Hence, health care providers train periodically, and the health facilities should equip with materials to provide essential life support for the newborns.
Cutaneous leiomyosarcoma with visceral metastases in a White Carneau pigeon and literature review
Authors: Fabian Niora J. , Esmail Michael Y. , Richey Lauren , Muthupalani Sureshkumar , Haupt Jennifer L. , Joy Joanna , Carrasco Sebastian E.
Published: February 2021

Cutaneous leiomyosarcomas are malignant mesenchymal tumors of smooth muscle origin and are reported occasionally in avian species. A 14-y-old male laboratory White Carneau pigeon ( Columba livia) was presented for surgical excision of a cervical soft tissue mass. Ultrasonography with color flow Doppler imaging revealed multiple cavitations of mixed echogenicity within the mass and vascularization. Histologically, the dermis and subcutis were expanded by a densely cellular multinodular mass comprised of fusiform cells forming haphazardly arranged broad streams and short interwoven bundles, often surrounding blood vessels and variably sized cavitations. Neoplastic cells were strongly immunopositive for desmin and α–smooth muscle actin, and negative for pancytokeratin, S100, and von Willebrand factor. Based on histopathology and IHC findings, the cutaneous mass was diagnosed as leiomyosarcoma (LMS). The pigeon died 312 d post-operatively. Postmortem examination revealed masses infiltrating the left and right pulmonary airways and one hepatic nodule, but no regrowth at the surgical site. Histologic and IHC evaluation of the pulmonary and hepatic masses were consistent with LMS, representing metastatic foci from the primary cutaneous LMS. Our case highlights the malignant behavior and histomorphologic features of cutaneous LMS in an avian species.
Real-time monitoring for road-base quality with the aid of buried piezoelectric sensors
Authors: Cai Yuanqiang , Ma Li , Cao Zhigang , Zhang Chunli , Ding Guangya , Dong Quanyang , Geng Xueyu , Yue Taotao
Published: February 2021

The road-base usually deteriorate during service time due to factors such as cyclical traffic loads and road-base fouling. Currently the monitoring method for road-base quality is quite limited. This paper proposes a real-time Monitoring method for Road-Base Quality (MRBQ) based on a soil dynamic model and piezoelectric sensors buried in road-base. The soil dynamic model was extended with a piezoelectric equation to calculate the voltage in the road-base generated by a moving traffic load. Then, a model test was conducted to measure the output voltage of the piezoelectric sensors buried in the road-base. Finally, the road-base modulus was back-calculated through the soil dynamic model with the measured voltage. The back-calculated modulus was compared with the modulus measured by resonance column test (RCT) to validate this method. The unique relationship between the peak voltage and the road-base modulus at various depths was identified for different traffic load amplitudes and speeds, and the feasibility and accuracy of the MRBQ was demonstrated. This study reveals that the sensitivity of the piezoelectric sensors can reach 2 V/MPa, and the error to measure the road-base modulus is less than 20%. The proposed MRBQ demonstrates a good application potential in health monitoring of transportation facilities.
Social Work Paradigms and Their Effect on Decision Making About Out-of-Home Placement
Authors: Przeperski Jarosław
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

This research aimed to understand the views of social workers on factors influencing decision making toward child placement and any possible differences in perception of these factors among social workers with experience in placement decision making and those without it.

Methods:

The Q sort methodology was used to analyze the opinions of 64 social workers by presenting them 54 statements on single sheets and asked to rank them on a grid.

Results:

Analysis showed five distinct paradigms: family-centered; veiled shared concept; child-centered; paternalistic; and professional evidence-based, which influence the entire process and outcomes of the decision making process. Both groups (those with experience in decisions towards placement and those without such experience) believed in family centeredness. Workers without prior experience of deciding to place children, regarded highly the role of workers in the decision-making process. They highlighted the need for data to guide decisions and the responsibility of workers to protect the child's welfare. Workers with prior experience focused mostly on generalized concepts and highlighted a detachment of the social worker from the decisions made. They attributed responsibility for decisions to the wider environment.

Conclusion:

Reflecting on the paradigms within which decisions concerning child welfare are made is essential to improving on the decision-making processes and has implications for both research and practice.
Understanding Quality of Life for Palliative Patients With Dysphagia Using the Swallowing Quality of Life (SWAL-QOL) Questionnaire
Authors: Tan Laurence Lean Chin , Lim Yujun , Ho Peiyan , Lim Lee Yen , Lim Ying Yin , Low James Alvin
Published: February 2021

Objective:

There are few studies concerning the differences in quality-of-life (QOL) between palliative care patients with and without dysphagia to date. We aimed to compare the QOL and symptoms in palliative patients with and without dysphagia using Swallowing Quality of Life (SWAL-QOL).

Methods:

Eighty-one palliative patients with and without dysphagia underwent the SWAL-QOL questionnaire. A series of Mann Whitney U tests were performed between non-dysphagic and dysphagic groups for the total SWAL-QOL score and the 11 SWAL-QOL domains.

Results:

Dysphagia significantly impacted patients’ QOL in the dysphagic group (mean, 69.5; SD 21.9) than non-dysphagic group (mean, 83.2; SD 14.8) ( P = 0.006). Significant differences were observed between both groups for the domains of burden, eating desire, eating duration, symptoms, food selection, communication and mental health. The results also showed that the dysphagic group had lower symptom score across all symptoms, suggesting higher symptom burdens.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to examine QOL and swallow symptoms in palliative care patients with and without dysphagia. Dysphagia causes significantly worse QOL in palliative care patients. Screening for dysphagia and managing its impact on symptoms and QOL domains is important in palliative care.
Differential Item Functioning of the Scales for Assessing Emotional Disturbance-3 for White and Hispanic Students
Authors: Lambert Matthew C. , Martin Jodie , Epstein Michael H. , Cullinan Douglas
Published: February 2021

The present study explored the psychometric properties of ratings made using the Scales for Assessing Emotional Disturbance–Third Edition: Rating Scale (SAED-3 RS), a scale developed for use in identifying school-age students with emotional and behavioral problems. The purposes of the study were to assess differential item functioning (DIF) for SAED-3 RS items between White and Hispanic students and to assess the impact of DIF on SAED-3 RS scale scores. The sample consisted of 979 students without disabilities who were identified as White/Non-Hispanic (71.91%) and Hispanic (28.09%). The data indicated that SAED-3 RS items demonstrated small to negligible levels of DIF and that DIF did not saliently impact scores. The data suggest that items and scores yielded from the SAED-3 RS are consistent in measuring the emotional and behavioral functioning of school-age students from diverse backgrounds. Research limitations, future research directions, and practical use implications for school personnel are discussed.
Time Course of Inflammatory and Procoagulant Markers in the Early Period After Total Hip Replacement
Authors: Poredos Peter , Poredos Pavel , Jezovnik Mateja K. , Mavric Ana , Leben Lara , Mijovski Mojca Bozic , Maia Paula , Haddad Sandra , Fareed Jawed
Published: February 2021

Our study aimed to investigate the levels and time-course of systemic inflammatory and hemostasis markers in the early postoperative period in patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR). The study included 70 patients of both sexes, average age 68.4 ± 10.9 years. Levels of inflammatory and hemostasis markers were measured before surgery (POD 0), a day after the surgery (POD 1) and 5 days after surgery (POD 5). In the postoperative period inflammatory markers increased. The operation provoked a significant increase of CRP on POD 1 in comparison to POD 0 (68.5 ± 5.4 vs 6.8 ± 2.2 μg/mL, p < 0.001) and the additional increase was registered on POD 5 (87.5 ± 8.1 vs 68.5 ± 5.4 μg/mL, p < 0.001). Interleukin-6 significantly increased on POD 1 (251.5 ± 21.6 vs 14.6 ± 7.1 μg/mL, p < 0.001) and after that (POD 5) decreased. After surgery leukocyte count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and platelet/lymphocyte ratio were significantly higher compared to POD 0. Activation of coagulation in the postoperative period was shown by increased peak thrombin on POD 5 in comparison to POD 0 (185 ± 27 vs. 124 ± 31 nM, p < 0.001). D-dimer was increased on POD 1 and an additional rise was observed on POD 5. vWF also progressively increased in the observed period. Results of our study showed that after THR systemic inflammatory markers increased and coagulation function was enhanced. Determination of inflammatory and procoagulant markers could help identify patients at risk for cardiovascular thromboembolic events.
Reduction of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in a beef abattoir
Authors: Brusa Victoria , Restovich Viviana , Galli Lucía , Arias Romina , Linares Luciano , Costa Magdalena , Díaz Vanesa Ruíz , Pugin Daniela , Leotta Gerardo
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work was to reinforce actions tending to reduce Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in beef products from an Argentinean commercial abattoir implementing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) practices. An environmental stx map was built with 421 environmental samples from the slaughter, quartering, cool chamber and deboning sectors (February-May 2013). For stx determination, 125 carcass and 572 anatomical cut samples were used. Based on the environmental stx mapping results, improvement actions were designed and implemented (June and July 2013). After implementing improvement actions, 160 carcass and 477 anatomical cut samples were collected to identify stx and verify the impact of improvement actions (August-December 2013). Our results showed stx-positivity in pre-operational (10.1%) and operational (15.5%) environmental samples and in carcass and beef cut samples before (4.8 and 10.1%; p = 0.144) and after (1.2 and 4.8%; p = 0.0448) implementing improvement actions, respectively. Although improvement actions reduced stx in beef cuts, it is difficult to implement and sustain a system based on stx zero-tolerance only by reinforcing Good Manufacturing Practices, Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures and HACCP practices. The application of combined intervention strategies to reduce STEC in carcasses and beef cuts should be therefore considered.
Preliminary Results of the Effects of a Psychoeducational Program on Stress and Quality of Life Among French Parents of an Child With Autism
Authors: Cappe Emilie , Downes Naomi , Albert-Benaroya Sophie , Ech-Chouikh Julie Allard , De Gaulmyn Aude , Luperto Lydia , Caron Valérie , Roussel Elisabeth , Taton Romain , Sankey Carol
Published: February 2021

The objective was to evaluate the impact of a psychoeducational program on the stress and quality of life of parents with a child with autism. In total, 20 parents attended a shortened version (SV group) of the program and 15 others a complete version (CV group). An assessment of perceived stress, parenting stress, and quality of life was performed before (T0), after (T1), and 6 months after the program (T2). Parental satisfaction was measured at T1. Parents in the CV group appeared to be significantly less stressed, and there was a significant improvement in certain areas of their quality of life (relationship with the child, psychological well-being, and personal fulfillment). No significant effects were observed in the SV group. Both groups highly appreciated the program. These results confirm the need to offer support to parents after receiving a diagnosis of autism for their child.
The Effects of Propofol on Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain
Authors: Coleman Scott R. , Cios Theodore J. , Riela Steven , Roberts S. Michael
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To determine if hemodynamic changes secondary to propofol administration are a result of direct myocardial depression as measured by global longitudinal strain (GLS). The authors hypothesized that propofol would cause a significant worsening in GLS, indicating direct myocardial depression.

Design

Prospective, observational.

Setting

Endoscopy suite at a single academic medical center.

Participants

Patients undergoing outpatient, elective endoscopic procedures at an outpatient clinic of a single tertiary care academic medical center.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Limited transthoracic echocardiograms were performed before and after patients received propofol for endoscopic procedures. Post-processing measurements included GLS, 2D (dimensional) ejection fraction (2D EF), and 3D EF. Using paired sample Student’s t test, no statistically significant change in GLS, 2D EF, or 3D EF was found despite statistically significant hypotension. In fact, there was a trend toward more negative GLS (improved myocardial function) in patients after receiving propofol.

Conclusion

We found propofol did not cause a reduction in systolic function as measured by GLS, a sensitive measure of myocardial contractility. Therefore, decreases in blood pressure after a propofol bolus in spontaneously breathing patients are likely due to decreased vascular tone and not impaired left ventricular systolic function. These results should be considered in the management of propofol-induced hypotension for spontaneously breathing patients.
The Relationship Between Thyroid Function and Body Composition, Leptin, Adiponectin, and Insulin Sensitivity in Morbidly Obese Euthyroid Subjects Compared to Non-obese Subjects
Authors: Al Mohareb Ohoud , Al Saqaaby Moath , Ekhzaimy Aishah , Hamza Muaawia , AlMalki Mussa H. , Bamehriz Fahad , Abukhater Muhammad , Brema Imad
Published: February 2021

Background/Objectives:

Thyroid function tests (TFTs) changes in obese people have been studied with increasing interest, however, studies have been inconsistent hence it remains poorly understood. We compared the TFTs of morbidly obese euthyroid Saudi subjects with non-obese controls and then we examined the influence of leptin, adiponectin, and insulin resistance on TFTs.

Subjects/Methods:

Fifty-five euthyroid obese subjects attending bariatric surgery clinic and 52 non-obese age-and gender-matched controls were recruited. We measured body weight, BMI, body composition, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Free T4 (FT4), Free T3(FT3), thyroid antibodies, fasting leptin, adiponectin, and lipid profile. Insulin resistance was quantified by HOMA-IR. Data are presented as mean ± SEM.

Results:

Mean BMI was 45.6 ± 1.5 and 23.2 ± 0.5 kg/m2, for the obese and non-obese controls, respectively, P value < 0.001. Mean TSH was 2.7 ± 0.18 mIU/L in obese subjects and 1.7 ± 0.13 mIU/L (0.27-4.2) in the non-obese controls, respectively, P value .014. Mean FT3 was 3.9 ± 0.1 pmol/L (3.1-6.8) in obese subjects compared to 5.0 ± 0.1 pmol/L in non-obese controls, respectively, P value 0.001, however, FT4 was similar in the 2 groups. In the whole group ( N = 107), BMI correlated positively with TSH and negatively with FT3. Leptin correlated negatively with both FT4 and FT3 in the non-obese group only while none of the TFTs correlated with HOMA-IR or adiponectin in either group. Binary logistic regression showed that each 1 unit increase in TSH increased the odds of becoming obese by 12.7, P value 0.009, 95 C.I. (1.9-85.0). Conversely, each - unit increase in FT3 decreased the odds of becoming obese by 0.2, P value 0.023, 95% C.I. (0.05-0.80).

Conclusions:

We report a small increase in TSH and a small decrease in FT3 within the normal range in obese subjects compared to non-obese controls. We also report a positive correlation between TSH and BMI with increased odds ratio of becoming obese with the increase in TSH and decrease in FT3. These changes may be either causally related or adaptive to the obesity state. FT4 and FT3 seem to correlate with leptin (but not with adiponectin or HOMA-IR) in the non-obese controls only. Larger mechanistic studies are needed to further elucidate the interesting association between obesity and TFTs.
Intralesional Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine Versus Intralesional Candida Antigen in the Treatment of Common and Plantar Warts
Authors: Nofal Ahmad , El-arab Reda Ezz , Nasr Mohamed , Alakad Rania
Published: February 2021

Background

Intralesional immunotherapy has been effectively used in the treatment of warts; however, comparative studies between different antigens are limited.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intralesional measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine compared with intralesional Candida antigen for the treatment of multiple common and plantar warts.

Methods

Sixty-eight adult patients with multiple common and plantar warts were randomly assigned into two groups, each containing 34 patients. The first group received intralesional MMR vaccine, while the second group received intralesional Candida antigen. Each treatment was injected into the largest wart at 2-week intervals until complete clearance or for a maximum of 5 sessions.

Results

The overall therapeutic response was higher in the Candida antigen group (73.5%) compared with the MMR group (67.7%); however, the difference was not statistically significant. Complete clearance of common warts was higher in the Candida antigen group, while that of plantar warts was higher in the MMR group. Adverse effects were transient and well tolerated in both groups. No recurrence was detected during the 6-month follow-up period.

Conclusion

Intralesional MMR and intralesional Candida antigen showed comparable efficacy and safety in the treatment of common and plantar warts.
The humanities are not our patient
Authors: Thanem Torkild , Wallenberg Louise
Published: February 2021

When inviting contributions to a special issue of this journal titled ‘Management Learning and the Unsettled Humanities’ the guest editors did not simply encourage contributors to explore possibilities ‘for reciprocal integration’ between the two realms. Stressing that ‘the humanities . . . [are] facing a complex crisis on their own’, they stated that ‘the humanities . . . need to be enriched, nuanced, and critiqued through . . . the ideas and perspectives of organisational research’. While we may agree that all is not well in the humanities and share their scepticism towards ‘just prescribing the value of the humanities to ameliorate the ills of management education’, we are less confident that the humanities need management learning as much as we need them. As long as learning and scholarship in management and organisation studies continues to suffer from too much management, we doubt that ‘management education [may help] . . . unsettl[e] . . . the human within the . . . humanistic . . . disciplines’. Rather, students of management and organisation still have plenty to learn from the humanities, not least from its rich portrayal of human lives. It is on this basis we draw the conclusion that the humanities are not our patient.
Exploring the impact of a student-centred survival swimming programme for primary school students in Australia: the perceptions of parents, children and teachers
Authors: Petrass Lauren A. , Simpson Kate , Blitvich Jenny , Birch Rhiannon , Matthews Bernadette
Published: February 2021

Teaching basic swimming, water safety and rescue skills is recommended by the World Health Organization for all school-aged children. However, there is a lack of evidence on effective pedagogies to develop swimming competency and the success of swimming lessons as a drowning prevention intervention. This study used a self-report questionnaire and practical testing procedures to examine the effectiveness of a 10-week student-centred aquatic programme designed for children aged 10–12 years. The study also determined whether the non-traditional swimming programme was accepted by swim teachers, school teachers and principals, and parents from a range of schools from different geographical regions in Victoria, Australia. A total of 204 students were enrolled in the programme. The pre-programme results indicated a good level of swimming, water safety and aquatic knowledge, but low swimming ability. Swimming ability significantly improved from pre-programme to post-programme, with no significant post-programme ability differences between male and female children or for participants from different programmes. Qualitative feedback collected through questionnaires, interviews and/or focus groups from students ( n = 73) and parents ( n = 69), school teachers and principals ( n = 14), swim teachers and swim school managers ( n = 21) indicated strong support from principals and swim teachers for the student-centred pedagogy, and all stakeholders valued the focus on survival swimming competencies. This research highlights the importance of including stakeholders when designing and implementing aquatics programmes. The study has resulted in a well-founded, effective programme with tailored resources and instructional materials that are available for swim centres and schools that would enable schools globally to adopt and implement this programme.
Benefit-finding among young adults with spina bifida
Authors: Kritikos Tessa K , Stiles-Shields Colleen , Shapiro Jenna B , Holmbeck Grayson N
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the current study was to examine benefit-finding in a sample of young adults with SB and assess relationships between demographic and medical variables and benefit-finding. Young adults with SB ( N = 329), ranging in age from 18 to 30 ( M = 23.44 ± 2.93), completed the Benefit-Finding Scale (BFS), a 17-item self-report questionnaire, and reported on demographic and medical information related to their SB diagnosis. Participants endorsed a range of benefits associated with living with SB. The most frequently endorsed benefits were related to personal strengths, interpersonal relationships, and life philosophy. Younger age, majority race, higher education level, and employment were significantly associated with higher BFS scores. Young adults with SB report benefits associated with their chronic condition. Future research should examine these benefits in relation to psychosocial outcomes.
COVID-19 among Chinese high school graduates: Psychological distress, growth, meaning in life and resilience
Authors: Yu Yongju , Yu Yongjuan , Hu Jiangxia
Published: February 2021

This study examined perceived impact of COVID-19 (PIC) on mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic growth) and roles of resilience and meaning in life. In October 2020, 430 Chinese high school graduates completed self-report measures. Results showed that 4.4% and 5.8% participants had anxiety and depression symptoms (⩾10), respectively, while 13.3% developed posttraumatic growth (⩾37.5). Resilience and meaning in life mediated the relationships between PIC and mental health outcomes. These findings underline psychological distress and growth coexisted in COVID-19, while resilience and meaning in life served as important protective factors of mental health.
From the ancient Silk Road to the belt and road initiative: Narratives, signalling and trust-building
Authors: Zhao Yujia , Tan-Mullins May
Published: February 2021

Narratives help in interpreting and understanding surrounding political realities. Yet, the divergence of narratives may also create distrust, and it is an important reason for greatly diverging perceptions of the Belt and Road Initiative between China and the international community. This article explores how trust can be bridged between different narratives. It discusses the notions of trust and how the Chinese concept of ‘brightness’ contributes to a strategic signalling process for trust-building in strategic cooperation. This article proposes that trust-building is a process of signalling and knowledge building. Only when the signal sent for strategic cooperation fits the other parties’ knowledge about the sender, can the trust-building process succeed. This compatibility between signals and developed knowledge can be the result of several rounds of signalling, in which the signal sender’s honesty regarding their self-interests and intentions is the necessary pre-condition.
Damage quantification of beam structures using deflection influence line changes and sparse regularization
Authors: Chen Zhi-Wei , Zhao Long , Zhang Jian , Cai Qin-Lin , Li Jun , Zhu Songye
Published: February 2021

Influence line (IL) has emerged as very promising damage indices for bridge damage detection. This study proposed a method to localize and quantify damage in beam structures by estimating section flexibility change from deflection IL (DIL) change. To this end, the relationship between second derivative of DIL change and flexibility change was established. To remove noise interference in measurement, piecewise quadratic functions were used to fit and replace noisy DIL change curves, wherein the coefficients of quadratic function were determined via a sparse regularization method, considering the sparsity nature of damage that typically takes place in only a limited number of elements. The feasibility and accuracy of the proposed method are verified through numerical examples and laboratory experiments. Through four hypothetical damage scenarios of a simply supported beam with one or two damaged locations, its ability to quantify minor damage and its anti-noise robustness were well verified. Finally, a laboratory experiment on a simply supported aluminum beam illustrated that the location and extent of damage could be successfully identified in the single-damage and double-damage cases. The numerical and experimental results indicate that the proposed method is promising for future damage localization and quantification of bridge structures.
Strain, torsion and refractive index sensors based on helical long period fibre grating inscribed in small-core fibre for structural condition monitoring
Authors: Fu Cailing , Ni Yi-Qing , Sun Tong , Wang Yiping , Ding Siqi , Vidakovic Miodrag
Published: February 2021

This study is intended to develop long period fibre grating sensors for potential applications in environmental and durability monitoring of coastal structures. High-quality helical long period fibre gratings (HLPFGs) are inscribed in different types of small-core single mode fibre (SMF) by use of hydrogen-oxygen flame heating technique. A detailed investigation of the effect of core diameter on their transmission spectrum and optimum length of the HLPFG has been pursued. A longer length is required to achieve the same coupling attenuation in a smaller-core SMF than that of a larger-core fibre. The strain, torsion and refractive index (RI) properties of the HLPFG is investigated experimentally to develop a high-sensitivity sensor. The experimental results show that the strain sensitivity could be enhanced by means of employing a larger-core diameter SMF. Moreover, the HLFPGs are also sensitive to the torsion and external RI. Hence, such HLFPGs have great potential for sensing applications.
Analysis of the robustness of a steel frame structure with composite floors subject to multiple fire scenarios
Authors: Suwondo Riza , Cunningham Lee , Gillie Martin , Bailey Colin
Published: February 2021

This study presents robustness analyses of a three-dimensional multi-storey composite steel structure under the action of multiple fire scenarios. The main objective of the work is to improve current understanding of the collapse resistance of this type of building under different fire situations. A finite element approach was adopted with the model being firstly validated against previous studies available in the literature. The modelling approach was then used to investigate the collapse resistance of the structure for the various fire scenarios examined. Different sizes of fire compartment are considered in this study, starting from one bay, three bays and lastly the whole ground floor as the fire compartment. The investigation allows a fundamental understanding of load redistribution paths and member interactions when local failure occurs. It is concluded that the robustness of the focussed building in a fire is considerably affected by the size of fire compartments as well as fire location. The subject building can resist progressive collapse when the fire occurs only in the one-bay compartment. On the other hand, total collapse occurs when fire is located in the edge three-bay case. This shows that more than one fire scenario needs to be taken into consideration to ensure that a structure of this type can survive from collapse in the worst-case situation.
The effectiveness of surgical adjunctive procedures in the acceleration of orthodontic tooth movement: A systematic review of systematic reviews and meta-analysis
Authors: Mheissen Samer , Khan Haris , Alsafadi Ahmad Saleem , Almuzian Mohammed
Published: February 2021

Objective:

To identify and evaluate the body of the evidence regarding the effectiveness of surgical adjunctive procedures (SAPs) in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement (OTM).

Data sources:

Unrestricted search of three electronic databases and manual search up to 12 June 2020 were undertaken.

Data selection:

All systematic reviews of randomised and non-randomised controlled trials that investigate the effectiveness of the SAPs in accelerating OTM were included.

Data extraction:

Study selection and data extraction were undertaken independently and in duplicate by two reviewers. A random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was generated for comparable outcomes. Two reviewers assessed the quality of the included studies using AMSTAR2 and GRADE.

Results:

Fourteen systematic reviews were included; however, four systematic reviews were assessed quantitatively. Meta-analysis showed that mean difference (MD) of canine retraction rate, for the first month after SAPs, was mild (MD = 0.65 mm/month). Compared to control, micro-osteoperforations (MOPs) statistically but temporally accelerate lower canine retraction and en masse retraction by 0.25 mm/month and 0.31 mm/month, respectively. There was no significant effect ( P>0.05) in terms of molar anchorage loss (MAL) between control and MOP groups. Piezocision non-significantly shortens the duration of en masse retraction (4.30 months, P>0.05), but significantly shortens incisors retraction (101.64 days, P<0.001). MAL is mild but significantly less in the piezocision group compared to the control group (MD = 0.53 mm, P=0.03). Low-level evidence showed that SAPs have no significant effect on root resorption or periodontal health; however, piezocision is associated with transient acute inflammation and noticeable scars.

Conclusion:

Low-level evidence concludes that SAPs accelerate OTMs and reduce treatment duration, but the acceleration is minor and transient. The effect on anchorage loss is variable and technique related. Side effects of SAPs are transient, but some might be aesthetically noticeable. A cost-benefit analysis of SAPs should be considered while making the treatment decision.
Bringing the biophysical to the fore: Re-envisioning organizational adaptation in the era of planetary shifts
Authors: Howard-Grenville Jennifer , Lahneman Brooke
Published: February 2021

The nature and scope of changes in organizations’ external environments is without precedent due to planetary shifts, or major changes in earth’s biophysical systems. Our theories of organizational adaptation lack the capacity to explain what will be needed on behalf of business organizations, and their strategists and managers, to adjust to these shifts. In this essay, we review organizational adaptation theory and explain why it falls short of offering adequate explanations in an era of planetary shifts. We then draw on ecological theories of adaptation, with their focus on social-ecological systems and panarchy, to suggest ways to advance organizational adaptation theory for our times.
A frontline service? Nursery Schools as local community hubs in an era of austerity
Authors: Hoskins Kate , Bradbury Alice , Fogarty Lewis
Published: February 2021

Nursery Schools in the UK have been described as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of early years provision because of the quality of education and a wide range of other support services that they provide, particularly for children from socio-economically disadvantaged families and those with complex special educational needs (SEN). In this paper, we explore the role of Nursery Schools in the local community, arguing that they have been re/constructed as a frontline service in the context of austerity policies enacted in England over the past decade. The data presented in support of this argument arise from detailed interviews with 17 staff based in four Nursery Schools. Our data lead us to argue that, in the current context of austerity and cuts to a range of local services, Nursery Schools are filling welfare gaps for families by providing clothing, trips and food voucher advice to families. They are also supporting increasing numbers of SEN children and are described as a first point of contact with state-run services by many, especially minority ethnic and working-class families. We conclude by arguing that Nursery Schools’ funding must be protected so that they can continue to provide support to some of the most vulnerable children and their families in England.
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD Related to Racial Discrimination
Authors: Halstead Mailae , Reed Sara , Krause Robert , Williams Monnica T.
Published: February 2021

Current research suggests that ketamine-assisted psychotherapy has benefit for the treatment of mental disorders. We report on the results of ketamine-assisted intensive outpatient psychotherapeutic treatment of a client with treatment-resistant, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of experiences of racism and childhood sexual abuse. The client’s presenting symptoms included hypervigilance, social avoidance, feelings of hopelessness, and intense recollections. These symptoms impacted all areas of daily functioning. Psychoeducation was provided on how untreated intergenerational trauma, compounded by additional traumatic experiences, potentiated the client’s experience of PTSD and subsequent maladaptive coping mechanisms. Ketamine was administered four times over a 13-day span as an off-label, adjunct to psychotherapy. Therapeutic interventions and orientations utilized were mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP). New skills were obtained in helping the client respond effectively to negative self-talk, catastrophic thinking, and feelings of helplessness. Treatment led to a significant reduction in symptoms after completion of the program, with gains maintained 4 months post-treatment. This case study demonstrates the effective use of ketamine as an adjunct to psychotherapy in treatment-resistant PTSD.