bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the effects of Wii and conventional training on functional abilities and neurocognitive function in basketball-players with functional ankle instability: Matched randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mohammadi Niloofar , Hadian Mohammad-Reza , Olyaei Gholam-Reza
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To compare the effects of Wii and conventional training on functional abilities and neurocognitive function in basketball-players with Functional Ankle Instability (FAI).

Design:

Single-blind matched randomized clinical trial study.

Setting:

Outpatients setting.

Participants:

Fifty-four basketball-players were randomly assigned to the Wii and control group.

Interventions:

All athletes in the Wii group ( n = 27) performed Wii Fit Plus games; and in the control group ( n = 27), they performed conventional training three days a week for 12 sessions.

Main outcome measures:

To assess functional performance and neurocognitive function, we used hop tests (8-hop, side hop, and single hop) and Deary-Liewald Reaction Time Task (DLRT), respectively. DLRT measured simple and choice reaction time and error rate. Measures were taken at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks after baseline.

Results:

In all 54 athletes completed the study. The results showed no significant differences for all hop tests in between-group comparison but the neurocognitive function showed significant improvements in the Wii group compared to the control group ( P < 0.05). Mean (SD) for 8-hop and side hop tests for the involved limb, and simple and choice reaction time four weeks after baseline in the control group were 10.15 (1.02), 12.36 (1.31), and 339.10 (41.57), 530.52 (53.36), respectively and in the Wii group, were 10.46 (1.23), 12.40 (1.31), and 295.25 (13.16), 431.19 (33.46), respectively.

Conclusion:

Based on our results, both training protocols were equal to positively affect functional abilities. Besides, Wii training improved neurocognitive function and can be applied in FAI rehabilitation protocols.
MRI findings of acute anterior instability of the knee in the absence of recent trauma
Authors: Klontzas Michail E , Vassalou Evangelia E , Karantanas Apostolos H
Published: August 2021

Background

Anterior knee instability is usually encountered in the context of trauma, with the clinical examination and imaging focusing on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) disruption. Limited data exist on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of acute anterior knee instability in the absence of recent trauma.

Purpose

To provide the first comprehensive account of MRI findings in acute anterior knee laxity in the absence of acute trauma and to evaluate predictors of ACL integrity and pain.

Material and Methods

A total of 84 consecutive patients with non-traumatic knee instability were prospectively studied. Instability was assessed with Lachman’s, pivot shift, and Lelli’s tests. MRI findings were recorded, and ACL integrity was surgically confirmed in all 24 cases of MRI suggesting tear and in 21/60 cases of MRI suggesting no tear. Binary logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of ACL tears and pain, and Mann–Whitney U test served for comparisons between continuous variables. The study was approved by the institutional review board.

Results

Osteoarthritis and notch bony outgrowth (NBO) were present in 44% and 42.9% of all knees, respectively. NBO did not correlate with osteoarthritis ( P = 0.606). NBO (odds ratio [OR] = 4.157; P = 0.016) and ACL grafts (OR = 9.277; P = 0.01) predisposed to non-traumatic ACL tears (torn in 28.6% of total cases). Presence of osteoarthritis was predictive of pain (OR = 17.671; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

We present a comprehensive analysis of MRI findings in clinically significant non-traumatic anterior instability, showing that NBO and ACL grafts predispose in non-traumatic ACL tears, whereas osteoarthritis is the only predictor of pain.
Whole-tumor histogram analysis of apparent diffusion coefficient for differentiating adenosquamous carcinoma and adenocarcinoma from squamous cell carcinoma in patients with cervical cancer
Authors: Xiao Meiling , Ma Xiaoliang , Ma Fenghua , Li Yongai , Zhang Guofu , Qiang Jinwei
Published: August 2021

Background

Differentiating adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC) and adenocarcinoma (AC) from squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) precisely is crucial for treatment strategy and prognosis prediction in patients with cervical cancer (CC).

Purpose

To differentiate ASC and AC from SCC in patients with CC using the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram analysis.

Material and Methods

A total of 118 patients with histologically diagnosed ASC, AC, and SCC were included. The ADC histogram parameters were extracted from ADC maps. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of each ADC histogram parameter in differentiating the subtypes of CC. The predictors for histologic subtypes were further selected using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

The ADCmean, ADCmax, ADCP10, ADCP25, ADCP75, ADCP90, ADCmedian, and ADCmode of the ASC were significantly lower than those of the AC; and ADCkurtosis and ADCskewness of the ASC were lower than those of the SCC. The ADCmean, ADCmax, ADCP10, ADCP25, ADCP75, ADCP90, ADCmedian, and ADCmode of AC were significantly higher than those of the SCC. The ADCP10 and ADCP10 + diameter yielded the AUCs of 0.753 and 0.778 in differentiating ASC from AC. The ADCmedian and ADCmedian + diameter yielded the AUCs of 0.807 and 0.838 in differentiating AC from SCC. The ADCskewness yielded the AUC of 0.713 in differentiating ASC from SCC.

Conclusion

The ADCP10 and ADCP10 + diameter, ADCmedian, and ADCmedian + diameter performed well in differentiating ASC from AC and AC from SCC, respectively. However, ADCskewness exhibited a limited ability in differentiating ASC from SCC.
Investigate aerodynamic performance of wind turbine blades with vortex generators at the transition area
Authors: Wu Zhou , Chen Tao , Wang Haipeng , Shi Hongwei , Li Mingzhou
Published: August 2021

The transition area of the blade had a large relative thickness of airfoil, which was prone to the flow separation. The vortex generators (VGs) could restrain the flow separation. In this paper, the VGs were installed at the transition area of the WindPACT 1.5 MW wind turbine blades. The numerical simulation method was used to investigate the effects of the VGs on the aerodynamic performance of the blade. The high-energy vortexes were generated at the tail by the VG. It could change the energy distribution and flow characteristics of the airflow in the boundary layer. There were influences by the geometric parameters of the VGs. The VGs could change the aerodynamic performance at the transition area of the blade. A satisfactory result was obtained for reasonable geometrical parameters of the VGs. It also could restrain the flow separation of the blade surface and improve the torque.
Word- and Text-Level Reading Difficulties in Students With Dyslexia
Authors: Meisinger Elizabeth B. , Breazeale Ashley M. , Davis Lyle H.
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine whether group-based differences exist in word- and text-level reading in a clinical sample of students with dyslexia, and to shed light on the cognitive processes supporting these essential skills. Second- through seventh-grade students were administered a battery of standardized measures of cognitive processing skills (phonological awareness, rapid automatized naming [RAN], and verbal short-term memory), word reading skills (decoding and word identification), oral text reading (fluency and comprehension), and silent text reading (fluency and comprehension). Word- and text-level reading skills were used to place students into the following groups: text fluency deficit, globally impaired, and partially remediated. Results replicated the existence of a text fluency deficit group. Reader group differences in terms of cognitive processing skills were less pronounced than expected, with only phonological awareness differentiating among them. Phonological awareness and RAN emerged as the important contributors to reading skill, though their relative contributions varied across word- and text-level measures. Together, these results point to importance of considering text-level reading processes across modality in both research and clinical contexts.
Comparing Behavioral and Emotional Strengths of Students With and Without Emotional Disturbance
Authors: Lambert Matthew C. , January Stacy-Ann A. , Gonzalez Jorge E. , Epstein Michael H. , Martin Jodie
Published: August 2021

The present study investigated evidence of the construct validity of scores from the Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale (BERS-3), which is a multi-informant assessment designed to measure the behavioral and emotional strengths of school-aged youth. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the degree to which BERS-3 scores differed between students with school-identified emotional disturbance and students without disabilities. Two nationally representative samples were used in this study: (a) 1,575 students rated by teachers and (b) 793 youth who provided self-ratings. The results of multivariate multiple regression analyses supported the primary hypothesis that students with emotional disturbance would have lower scores on each of the five BERS-3 subscale scores compared to peers without disabilities. This finding held for both samples; however, differences between students with emotional disturbance and the peers without disabilities were substantially smaller for the youth self-ratings compared to teacher ratings. Implications for practice and directions for future research are also discussed.
Putting “the Torah” back into “the Book of Moses” in Miqṣat Ma‘aśe ha-Torah: A new proposed reconstruction of 4Q397 14–21 6
Authors: Kaplan Jonathan
Published: August 2021

In this article, I build upon observations by Émile Puech regarding the available space in 4Q397 14–21 6, one of the manuscripts of Miqṣat Ma‘aśe ha-Torah (MMT), in order to propose an alternate reconstruction of the middle of this line. I suggest emending the earlier reconstruction of בספר מושה‎ “in the book of Moses,” which is found in numerous editions of 4Q397, with בספר‎ תורת מושה‎ “in the book of the torah of Moses.” I argue that this new proposed reconstruction is plausible given the context of this line, the available space on the line, and the appearance of the phrase elsewhere in other Second Temple period Hebrew literature.
Aging Impairs Inhibitory Control Over Incidental Cues: A Construal-Level Perspective
Authors: Hadar Liat , Trope Yaacov , Ben-David Boaz M.
Published: August 2021

Age-related changes in decision making have been attributed to deterioration of cognitive skills, such as learning and memory. On the basis of past research showing age-related decreases in the ability to inhibit irrelevant information, we hypothesize that these changes occur, in part, because of older adults’ tendency to give more weight to low-level, subordinate, and goal-irrelevant information than younger adults do. Consistent with this hypothesis, our findings demonstrated that young adults are willing to pay more for a product with superior end attributes than a product with superior means attributes (Study 1, N = 200) and are more satisfied after an experience with superior end than means attributes (Study 2, N = 399). Young adults are also more satisfied with a goal-relevant than with a goal-irrelevant product (Study 3, N = 201; Study 4, N = 200, preregistered). Importantly, these effects were attenuated with age. Implications for research on construal level and aging, as well as implications for policymakers, are discussed.
Latvian public libraries as a resource, cooperation partner and initiator for promoting media literacy and civic participation in local communities
Authors: Kine Kristine , Davidsone Agnese
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study is to explore the involvement of public library librarians in improving media literacy and promoting civic participation in Latvia. Within the framework of this research, 15 semi-structured interviews with librarians of public libraries were conducted. The main findings indicate that librarians can strengthen information consumption skills by providing lifelong learning opportunities for all members of society. However, several problematic aspects emerge, among them are the lack of methodological materials specifically for library use, difficulty in reaching audiences who need media literacy training and insufficient media literacy skills among librarians themselves. The librarians in the study stated that more up-to-date knowledge of media literacy is required, as technological developments have changed the criteria by which we evaluate information. Libraries also engage in building civil competence, mainly by facilitating different forms of civic participation and ensuring equal access to infrastructure and library resources. Librarians themselves consider libraries to promote local community awareness and strengthen its identity, thus perpetuating a democratic society. Libraries also promote a sense of responsibility towards the community in members of society by organizing events and organizing volunteer work. Therefore, there is the need for public libraries to become more visible in the local communities as promoters of civic participation, engage more in the communities’ life. This requires librarians to take a more active role, and their participation in community events and partnership building. Librarians’ own media literacy and pedagogical skills need to be continuously improved.
The Commission’s digital services and markets act proposals: First step towards tougher and more directly enforced EU rules?
Authors: Van Cleynenbreugel Pieter
Published: August 2021

On 15 December 2020, the European Commission presented its long-anticipated Digital Services and Digital Market Acts proposals. If and when adopted, those proposals would put in place a more stringent regulatory framework ensuring coordinated oversight over the online platform services and digital markets. They would also enhance EU coordinated and direct enforcement in the digital economy, by streamlining the organization and sanctioning powers of national administrative bodies and granting the European Commission far-reaching market supervision and enforcement powers. This legal development article analyses both Acts and calls on the EU legislator to pay sufficient attention to ensuring the feasibility of new regulatory obligations and to foreseeing better procedural safeguards accompanying Commission direct enforcement practices.
The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Training on Hope, Psychological Well-Being, and Functional Recovery in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Özdemir Aysel A. , Kavak Budak Funda
Published: August 2021

This study tested the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) training on multiple outcomes in patients with schizophrenia. We compared MBSR, psychoeducation, and control groups in a randomized controlled research design. Outcome measures assessed hope, psychological wellbeing, and functional recovery over three time points in 137 participants. The results of this study indicate that MBSR training was more effective in terms of increasing the level of hope, psychological well-being, and functional recovery of schizophrenia patients when compared with psychoeducation and control patients.
Time–frequency analysis of torsional vibration signals based on the improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise, Robust independent component analysis, and Prony’s methods
Authors: Zhang Qingjie , Lu Guangxiang , Zhang Chengyu , Xu You
Published: August 2021

The torsional vibration signals of rotating shafts are multimodal non-stationary noisy signals. The harmonics and attenuation characteristics of these non-stationary signals cannot be obtained effectively by the ordinary short-time Fourier transform algorithm. Although Prony analysis can accurately fit and identify the characteristic coefficients of such non-stationary signals, it is still sensitive to noise. In this article, we propose a system for denoising and identification of torsional vibration signals. In particular, the improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEMDAN), wavelet transform, and robust independent component analysis methods are used to denoise the torsional vibration signals, and then, Prony analysis is used to obtain the characteristic parameters of these signals. The proposed algorithm has good denoising performance and it can improve the identification accuracy and reduce the order of the Prony analysis.
Assessing the Job Satisfaction of Registered Nurses Using Sentiment Analysis and Clustering Analysis
Authors: Jura Matthew , Spetz Joanne , Liou Der-Ming
Published: August 2021

Job satisfaction is a critical component of the professional work environment and is often ascertained through surveys that include structured or open-ended questions. Using data from 24,543 respondents to California Board of Registered Nursing biennial surveys, this study examines the job satisfaction of registered nurses (RNs) by applying clustering analysis to structured job satisfaction items and sentiment analysis to free-text comments. The clustering analysis identified three job satisfaction groups (low, medium, and high satisfaction). Sentiment analysis scores were significantly associated with the job satisfaction groups in both bivariate and multivariate analyses. Differences between the job satisfaction clusters were mostly driven by satisfaction with workload, adequacy of the clerical support services, adequacy of the number of RN staff, and skills of RN colleagues. In addition, there was dispersion in satisfaction related to involvement in management and policy decisions, recognition for a job well done, and opportunities for professional development.
Quasi-static indentation and sound-absorbing properties of 3D printed sandwich core panels
Authors: Goh Guo Dong , Neo Song Jiang Casper , Dikshit Vishwesh , Yeong Wai Yee
Published: August 2021

The use of 3D printing to produce acoustic panels with good mechanical and acoustic properties was investigated in this paper. Various fiber layups of the fiberglass face sheet and core designs were fabricated and tested for their indentation resistance and acoustic absorption performance. It was found that the bidirectional face sheet layup exhibited the best indentation energy absorption recording 4.2 J, which is 37% more than the 45-degree layout and 66% more than the quasi-isotropic layup. The specific energy absorption of the hybrid honeycomb core is the best among the three core designs recording 404 J/kg, which is 56% higher than the corrugated triangle with horizontal beam core (359 J/kg) and 20% higher than double ellipse core (335 J/kg). Computed-Tomography (CT) scan was used to study the fracture behavior of the sandwich structures. It was found that the bidirectional layup exhibited a different failure mode as compared to the 45-degree and quasi-isotropic layup. In terms of the acoustic properties, the face sheets with various layup patterns have a low acoustic absorption coefficient with minimal differences from each other at low frequencies (500 Hz–3000 Hz) and have higher absorption coefficients with greater differences from each other at frequencies between 3000 Hz–6500 Hz. The absorption curve was significantly affected by the design of the core. The orientation of the core also comes into play if the core is asymmetrical. The hybrid honeycomb sandwich structure was the optimal structure among the three designs for balanced indentation resistance and acoustic insulation.
Indocyanine green angiography imaging findings in artery occlusions
Authors: Venkatesh Ramesh , Reddy Nikitha Gurram , Prabhu Vishma , Rishi Pukhraj , Pereira Arpitha , Bhatt Abhishek , Yadav Naresh Kumar , Chhablani Jay
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To describe the multimodal imaging features including indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) in cases diagnosed clinically as central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) at its different disease stages.

Methods:

In this retrospective observational study, patients diagnosed clinically as CRAO or hemi-CRAO were included. All patients underwent multimodal imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were studied. Analysis of ICGA images in different stages of artery occlusions and its correlation with accompanying FFA and OCT images was done.

Results:

Eight such studies in five patients were available for analysis. The most important observation noted on ICGA was the presence of hypercyanescent spots seen during the acute stages of the disease in four of the five cases. The spots were accompanied by retinal vessel staining on FFA in the corresponding region. As the disease showed signs of resolution, the hypercyanescent spots on ICGA and retinal vessel staining on FFA disappeared. The hypercyanescent spots seen on the ICGA were noted due to the red blood cell aggregation or ‘rouleaux’ formation. In addition, choroidal perfusion abnormalities were noted on ICGA in all five cases in the acute stage.

Conclusion:

Choroidal perfusion changes can be identified in acute phase of retinal artery occlusion. Rouleaux formation in the retinal circulation occurs due to the slowing of the blood flow following artery occlusion. These are seen as hypercyanescent spots in the late phase on ICGA.
Primary surgical options for acute corneal hydrops: A review
Authors: García de Oteyza Gonzalo , Bregliano Guido , Sassot Irene , Quintana Luis , Rius Carolina , García-Albisua Ana Mercedes
Published: August 2021

Acute corneal hydrops usually resolves alone or with medical therapy along the first 4–6 weeks. However, depending on the severity of the corneal edema or the size of the Descemet break, self-healing might be difficult. Years ago, those patients had no more options than corneal transplantation, but surgical alternatives are on the rise in this century. These surgeries are becoming more popular with a variety of techniques relegating penetrating keratoplasty to a residual role. These techniques aim to accelerate corneal healing, reduce the edema, improve visual acuity and prevent from severe complications that may appear if corneal hydrops is not treated rapidly. Feasibility and safety are the favorable aspects of these techniques since the complications rates described remain low. In this review, we emphasize the recently published studies that describe both the techniques and their results.
Retinal findings similar to retinopathy of prematurity in a term-infant with congenital cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Ozen Tunay Zuhal , Derme Turan , Erginturk Acar Damla , Beser Esra
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To present a term-born infant with congenital cytomegalovirus (C-CMV) infection with an atypical retinal finding mimicking retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Case description:

A term-born infant was referred to our clinic due to a C-CMV infection. Fundoscopic examination of both eyes revealed a demarcation line at zone II level and peripheral avascular retina along the temporal retina. There was no chorioretinitis, no vitritis, and no retinal vasculitis. There was no history of oxygen supplementation. The demarcation lines in both eyes regressed spontaneously within 3 weeks without any sequelae.

Conclusions:

It has been known for many years that C-CMV infection may affect the eye, and chorioretinitis is the most common finding. In this case report, we presented an atypical ROP-like retinal finding in an infant with C-CMV infection. We think that the development of retinal vascularization may be affected by C-CMV infection. We hope that this finding may provide a clue for future investigations to understand the relationship between the pathogenesis of ROP and infection-induced inflammatory processes in prenatal and perinatal life.
Multimodal evaluation of hemorrhages within intraretinal cystoid spaces in a blood-fluid level presentation
Authors: Barbosa Gabriel Castilho Sandoval , Susanna Bianca Nicolela , Rio Juliana Abreu , Mendes Thaís Sousa , Guerra Ricardo Luz Leitão
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

We describe characteristic findings on multimodal evaluation and the features of hemorrhage within a foveal cystoid space in a patient presenting cystoid macular edema secondary to Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO).

Case description:

We report a case of a 64-year-old diabetic male patient presenting gradual blurry vision in the left eye. Fundoscopic findings were suggestive of BRVO, such as hard exudates and mild venous engorgement superotemporally and diffuse macular intraretinal hemorrhages. In the foveal area, there was cystoid edema with blood-fluid level (BFL) inside one of the cystoid spaces. Retina multimodal evaluation, including color, blue filter, and red-free fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, fundus autofluorescence, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) B and C scan imaging, confirmed blood within foveal cystoid space. The patient underwent antiangiogenic therapy with significant improvement of macular edema and reduction of the cystoid space after 3 months. In addition, there was a resolution of visual symptoms. The cystoid space previously partially filled with blood, persisted, despite presenting smaller volume and medium reflectivity in the SD-OCT.

Conclusions:

Multimodal evaluation of blood-fluid level within foveal cystoid space in patients with BRVO has not been described previously. Identification of this sign may support the diagnosis of retinal vein occlusion in doubtful cases and further studies must be carried out to establish if the presence of BFL correlates with visual outcomes.
Saliency based human fall detection in smart home environments using posture recognition
Authors: Mousse Mikael Ange , Atohoun Béthel
Published: August 2021

The implementation of people monitoring system is an evolving research theme. This paper introduces an elderly monitoring system that recognizes human posture from overlapping cameras for people fall detection in a smart home environment. In these environments, the zone of movement is limited. Our approach used this characteristic to recognize human posture fastly by proposing a region-wise modelling approach. It classifies persons pose in four groups: standing, crouching, sitting and lying on the floor. These postures are obtained by calculating an estimation of the human bounding volume. This volume is estimated by obtaining the height of the person and its surface that is in contact with the ground according to the foreground information of each camera. Using them, we distinguish each postures and differentiate lying on floor posture, which can be considered as the falling posture from other postures. The global multiview information of the scene is obtaining by using homographic projection. We test our proposed algorithm on multiple cameras based fall detection public dataset and the results prove the efficiency of our method.
Processing of Positive Memories Technique among Clients Reporting Traumatic Experiences: A Case Series
Authors: Fondren Alana H. , Banducci Anne N. , Cox Randall , Contractor Ateka A.
Published: August 2021

Many current treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) emphasize processing and engaging with trauma memories as the key mechanism of therapeutic change. However, promising emerging research indicates links between PTSD symptoms and positive memories. Processing positive memories, to therapeutically impact health outcomes for trauma-exposed individuals, may have several benefits, including (a) increasing access to positive coping mechanisms via activating positive affect and thoughts; (b) addressing avoidance of positive affect and thoughts; and (c) honing skills that will aid in the eventual processing of trauma memories. The present article demonstrates the utility and effects of a novel Processing of Positive Memories Technique (PPMT) with three clients who reported a history of traumatic experiences. We outline the procedures of a 5-session PPMT, that incorporates symptom assessment, detailed imaginal experiencing of positive memories, and processing of associated positive values, affect, strengths, and thoughts. We utilize longitudinal assessment data to demonstrate the clinical benefits of PPMT, such as less PTSD severity, improved mood (e.g., less negative affect), and greater self-esteem. Finally, we discuss treatment considerations based on unique client factors and treatment modalities (i.e., in-person vs. video telehealth).
Social Determinants of Health and COVID-19 Behaviors and Beliefs Toward Immunizations Among Latinxs
Authors: Cuellar Norma Graciela , Cuellar Matthew J , McDiarmid Alex , Bautista Natalie , Crespo-Fierro Michele , Infante Gerardo , La Torre Debora , Mautner Lorraine , Perez Maria , Perry Jacqueline , Pistolessi Isolina , Quintana Amanda , Rangel Paulette , Valdez Sonia
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Sixty million Latinxs make up 26.4% of all COVID-19 cases in the United States. It is uncertain whether behaviors and beliefs of immunizations among Latinxs is influenced by social determinants of health. The purpose of this study was to examine how social determinants of health predict COVID-19 behaviors and beliefs toward immunization among Latinxs.

Methods:

In this exploratory study, 11 chapters from the National Association of Hispanic Nurses collaborated to recruit participants. The CDC National 2009 H1N1 Flu Survey was adapted to measure behaviors and beliefs about immunizations of COVID-19. The Health Access Survey was used to measure social determinants of health. Instruments were available in both Spanish and English.

Results:

Participants (n=228) with higher education and health insurance tended to have less worry about taking the vaccine. Access to resources and practicing COVID-19 protective factors was positively associated. Alternative medicine and use of COVID-19 protective factors were negatively associated. Exposure to drugs and violence was associated with a decrease in likelihood to pursue a vaccine.

Conclusions:

Latinx need education about COVID-19 and vaccinations. Access to health care services must be available. Results highlight the importance of careful measurement when assessing social determinants of health among Latinx.
Knee-stretched walking with toe-off and heel-strike for a position-controlled humanoid robot based on model predictive control
Authors: Huang Zelin , Yu Zhangguo , Chen Xuechao , Li Qingqing , Meng Libo , Dong Chencheng , Meng Xiang , Liao Wenxi , Huang Qiang
Published: August 2021

Knee-stretched walking is considered to be a human-like and energy-efficient gait. The strategy of extending legs to obtain vertical center of mass trajectory is commonly used to avoid the problem of singularities in knee-stretched gait generation. However, knee-stretched gait generation utilizing this strategy with toe-off and heel-strike has kinematics conflicts at transition moments between single support and double support phases. In this article, a knee-stretched walking generation with toe-off and heel-strike for the position-controlled humanoid robot has been proposed. The position constraints of center of mass have been considered in the gait generation to avoid the kinematics conflicts based on model predictive control. The method has been verified in simulation and validated in experiment.
Priapism after spinal cord injury – a case report and review of the literature
Authors: John Jeff , Mngqi Noma , Kesner Ken
Published: August 2021

Involuntary unwanted erections are extremely rare after spinal cord injury (SCI). A sudden loss of sympathetic tone to the pelvic vasculature following SCI causes an increase in the parasympathetic tone and uncontrolled arterial blood flow into the penile sinusoidal spaces. When occurring immediately after an acute SCI, it is generally self-limiting and settles within a few hours. In contrast, recurrent, unwanted erections in patients with chronic SCI are more unpredictable in frequency and duration and may require treatment. We present a case of recurrent involuntary unwanted erections in a patient with chronic SCI after a stab wound to his neck and review the pathophysiology and available management options.
A Tale of Two Pandemics: Economic Inequality and Support for Containment Measures in Peru
Authors: Carreras Miguel , Vera Sofia , Visconti Giancarlo
Published: August 2021

Research suggests that the coronavirus pandemic disproportionately affected poor communities. However, relatively little is known about how this differential impact affected support for, and compliance with, COVID-19 lockdown policies. This article examines the relationship between socioeconomic inequalities and public opinion towards COVID-19 containment measures in Peru. Despite the strict quarantine measures adopted by the government of Peru, the country struggled to contain the spread of the disease. We designed and implemented a nationally representative survey in Peru and found that economically vulnerable sectors are more likely to oppose the quarantine and are more likely to defy the stay-at-home recommendations to leave home and go to work. Our contribution highlights that poor citizens’ housing and economic conditions can explain why the poor are more likely to react negatively to COVID-19 lockdown policies.
Assessing Spiritual Development: Reflections on Building a Community Measure
Authors: Orthner Dennis K.
Published: August 2021

Measuring a complex and theologically challenging concept like spiritual formation can be daunting. This article describes a multiyear process and methodology that was used in constructing a measure that demonstrated reasonably high levels of reliability, validity, and useability. The article also describes the many challenges in developing this type of measure and strategies for overcoming those challenges. Reflections on how a measure such as this might be helpful, as well as potentially challenging, to churches and pastors are provided in the closing.
Temperature-Controlled Radiofrequency Neurolysis for the Treatment of Rhinitis
Authors: Ehmer Dale , McDuffie Chad M. , Scurry W. Cooper , McIntyre J. Bradley , Mehendale Neelesh H. , Willis John H. , Shealy Ronald B. , Watkins Jeremy P. , Kakarlapudi V. Vasu.
Published: August 2021

Background

Chronic rhinitis is a prevalent condition with a significant impact on quality of life. Posterior nasal nerve and vidian neurectomy are surgical options for treating the symptoms of chronic rhinitis but are invasive procedures.

Objective

To determine the outcomes of patients diagnosed with refractory chronic rhinitis and treated with temperature-controlled radiofrequency neurolysis of the posterior nasal nerve area in a minimally invasive procedure.

Methods

A prospective, single-arm multicenter study with follow-up through 52 weeks. Eligible adult patients had chronic rhinitis symptoms of at least 6 months duration with inadequate response to at least 4 weeks usage of intranasal steroids and an overall 12-h reflective total nasal symptom score (rTNSS) ≥ 6 with subscores 2 to 3 for rhinorrhea, 1 to 3 for nasal congestion, and 0 to 3 for each of nasal itching and sneezing. Temperature-controlled radiofrequency energy was delivered to the nasal cavity mucosa overlying the posterior nasal nerve region with a novel single-use, disposable, handheld device.

Results

A total of 50 patients were treated (42.0% male; mean age 57.9 ± 11.9 years), and 47 completed the study through 52 weeks. Mean rTNSS significantly improved from 8.5 (95% CI 8.0, 9.0) at baseline to 3.6 (95% CI 3.0, 4.3) at 52 weeks ( P < .001), a 57.6% improvement. Similar trends in improvement were noted for rTNSS subscores (rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, itching, sneezing), postnasal drip scores, and chronic cough scores. Subgroup analysis demonstrated the treatment was effective regardless of rhinitis classification (allergic or nonallergic). No serious adverse events with a relationship to the device/procedure occurred.

Conclusions

Temperature-controlled radiofrequency neurolysis of the posterior nasal nerve area for the treatment of chronic rhinitis is safe and resulted in a durable improvement in the symptoms of chronic rhinitis through a 52-week follow-up. Data suggest that this novel device could be considered a minimally invasive option in the otolaryngologist's armamentarium for the treatment of chronic rhinitis.
Evaluating Outreach Methods for Multi-Target Stool DNA Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening Among an Employer Population
Authors: Shepherd Martha E. , Lecorps Ashlee , Harris-Shapiro Jon , Miller-Wilson Lesley-Ann
Published: August 2021

Introduction/Objectives:

Despite compelling evidence of clinical and economic benefits, adherence to colorectal cancer (CRC) screening remains low. Increasing public awareness through various outreach methods may improve screening uptake. The objective of this study was to evaluate the uptake of non-invasive multi-target stool DNA (mt-sDNA) by different outreach methods in an average-risk employer population.

Methods:

This retrospective observational study included CRC screening-eligible individuals aged ≥50 years insured by the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) employee healthcare plan. The study intervention arms included population-based outreach and office visit-based interaction. The mt-sDNA completion rate (proportion of individuals who return the mt-sDNA kit after consenting to have it shipped to their home), proportion of patients who performed follow-up colonoscopy after a positive test, and time to follow-up colonoscopy were assessed.

Results:

A total of 167 mt-sDNA kits were shipped to eligible participants (aged 50-64 years) in the population-based outreach arm. In the office visit-based interaction arm, a total of 132 mt-sDNA kits were shipped to eligible participants (aged ≥50 years). The mt-sDNA completion rate was significantly higher for office visit-based interaction as compared to population-based outreach (76.8% vs 53.5%; P < .001) among those aged 50 to 64 years. While all patients aged 50 to 64 years with a positive mt-sDNA result received a follow-up colonoscopy in both arms, the median time to follow-up colonoscopy was shorter among the population-based outreach (55 vs 136 days; P < .05).

Conclusions:

Office visit-based interaction was associated with a higher mt-sDNA completion rate as compared to the population-based outreach among average-risk, CRC screening-eligible individuals aged 50 to 64 years old.
The Racially Unequal Impacts of Disasters and Federal Recovery Assistance on Local Self-Employment Rates
Authors: Bento Asia , Elliott James R.
Published: August 2021

This study examines racial inequalities in changing self-employment rates associated with natural hazard impacts and federal recovery assistance in ethnoracially diverse metropolitan counties between 2000 and 2010. It advances the viewpoint that such inequalities can stem from hoarded opportunities tied to white privilege in addition to commonly highlighted social vulnerabilities tied to racial inequities and exclusion. To test that proposition, we conduct change-score analyses using county-level data from the US Census Bureau, the Spatial Hazard Events and Losses Database for the United States, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Results indicate that (a) overall, self-employment rates increase with local property damages from natural hazards, especially among white and Latino workers; (b) those increases are largely explained by the amount of federal public assistance received for disaster recovery, not property damages themselves; and (c) white workers experience the most positive and consistent increases in self-employment from federal recovery assistance. Implications for understanding racial inequities stemming from current and future disasters and government assistance are discussed.
Development and Validation of a Person-Centered Care Assessment Questionnaire for Daycare Centers for Older Adults
Authors: Chin Young Ran , Lee Hyo Young , Lee Mi-Joung
Published: August 2021

Daycare services serve to prolong aging at home. This decreases both families’ care burden and the government’s financial burden. We identified key factors in the person-centered approach of South Korean daycare center workers to develop and validate a Korean person-centered care questionnaire. Twenty-one items were developed, and 10 expert interviews were conducted. The items were applied to 271 daycare center staff (19.2% male vs. 80.0% female, mean age = 50.68 ± 11.37 years) to evaluate their reliability and validity. Twenty items concerning intimate relationships and the environment, consumers’ self-determination, and home-likeness domains were derived, explaining 40.28%, 10.44%, and 6.97% of the total variance, respectively. The overall tool’s Cronbach’s alpha was 0.905, demonstrating internal consistency. Inter-rater agreement ranged from 0.221 (fair) to 0.765 (good). This tool will be useful for individual staff members as well as for the National Health Insurance Service’s evaluations of service quality at daycare centers.
Effect of pattern scanning laser on macular thickness in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Hamed Nadine , Vander Woude Logan , Roohipourmoallai Ramak , Ohning Collin , Regan Kathleen A. , Iyer Siva S.R.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

This study investigates the effect of pattern scanning laser (PASCAL) panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) on central macular thickness (CMT) and visual acuity (VA) in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

Methods:

This retrospective non-randomized comparative case series included 262 eyes (163 with macular edema) of 177 patients with PDR. Treatment was PRP alone (137), PRP + anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (69), PRP + focal laser (28), or all three (89). CMT and central macular volume 3 and 6 mm from fovea were analyzed before and 1, 3, and 6 months after PRP. Spot number was plotted against CMT, and linear regression analysis was performed.

Results:

For each treatment group and time point, there was a non-significant relationship between spot number and CMT. In eyes receiving all three treatment modalities, a significant negative relationship was found between spot number and 3-mm volume at 6 months ( p = 0.04) and 6-mm volume at 1 month ( p = 0.002) and 6 months ( p = 0.011). There was no significant change in VA in any treatment group at the 6-month time point.

Conclusion:

PASCAL PRP ± focal laser or anti-VEGF was not associated with increased development of macular edema or change in VA. PASCAL PRP with focal laser and anti-VEGF may result in a decrease in macular edema.
HMGB1, NLRP3, IL-6 and ACE2 levels are elevated in COVID-19 with headache: a window to the infection-related headache mechanism
Authors: Bolay Hayrunnisa , Karadas Ömer , Oztürk Bilgin , Sonkaya Riza , Tasdelen Bahar , Bulut Tuba D. S. , Gülbahar Özlem , Özge Aynur , Baykan Betül
Published: August 2021

Background and aim

Pathogenesis of COVID-19 -related headache is unknown, though the induction of the trigeminal neurons through inflammation is proposed. We aimed to investigate key systemic circulating inflammatory molecules and their clinical relations in COVID-19 patients with headache.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 88 COVID-19 patients, hospitalized on a regular ward during the second wave of the pandemic. Clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients were recorded, and laboratory tests were studied.

Results

The mean ages of 48 COVID-19 patients with headache (47.71 ± 10.8) and 40 COVID-19 patients without headache (45.70 ± 12.72) were comparable. COVID-19 patients suffered from headache had significantly higher serum levels of HMGB1, NLRP3, ACE2, and IL-6 than COVID-19 patients without headache, whereas CGRP and IL-10 levels were similar in the groups. Angiotensin II level was significantly decreased in the headache group. COVID-19 patients with headache showed an increased frequency of pulmonary involvement and increased D- dimer levels. Furthermore, COVID-19 was more frequently associated with weight loss, nausea, and diarrhea in patients with headache. Serum NLRP3 levels were correlated with headache duration and hospital stay, while headache response to paracetamol was negatively correlated with HMGB1 and positively associated with IL-10 levels.

Conclusion

Stronger inflammatory response is associated with headache in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with moderate disease severity. Increased levels of the circulating inflammatory and/or nociceptive molecules like HMGB1, NLRP3, and IL-6 may play a role in the potential induction of the trigeminal system and manifestation of headache secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Functional correlation of ATP1A2 mutations with phenotypic spectrum: from pure hemiplegic migraine to its variant forms
Authors: Li Yingji , Tang Wenjing , Kang Li , Kong Shanshan , Dong Zhao , Zhao Dengfa , Liu Ruozhuo , Yu Shengyuan
Published: August 2021

Background

Mutations in ATP1A2, the gene encoding the α2 subunit of Na+/K+-ATPase, are the main cause of familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2). The clinical presentation of FHM2 with mutations in the same gene varies from pure FHM to severe forms with epilepsy and intellectual disability, but the correlation of these symptoms with different ATP1A2 mutations is still unclear.

Methods

Ten ATP1A2 missense mutations were selected according to different phenotypes of FHM patients. They caused pure FHM (FHM: R65W, R202Q, R593W, G762S), FHM with epilepsy (FHME: R548C, E825K, R938P), or FHM with epilepsy and intellectual disability (FHMEI: T378N, G615R, D718N). After ouabain resistance and fluorescence modification, plasmids carrying those mutations were transiently transfected into HEK293T and HeLa cells. The biochemical functions were studied including cell survival assays, membrane protein extraction, western blotting, and Na+/K+-ATPase activity tests. The electrophysiological functions of G762S, R938P, and G615R mutations were investigated in HEK293T cells using whole-cell patch-clamp. Homology modeling was performed to determine the locational distribution of ATP1A2 mutations.

Results

Compared with wild-type pumps, all mutations showed a similar level of protein expression and decreased cell viability in the presence of 1 µM ouabain, and there was no significant difference among the mutant groups. The changes in Na+/K+-ATPase activity were correlated with the severity of FHM phenotypes. In the presence of 100 µM ouabain, the Na+/K+-ATPase activity was FHM > FHME > FHMEI. The ouabain-sensitive Na+/K+-ATPase activity of each mutant was significantly lower than that of the wild-type protein, and there was no significant difference among all mutant groups. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings in HEK293T cells showed that the ouabain-sensitive pump currents of G615R were significantly reduced, while those of G762S and R938P were comparable to those of the wild-type strain.

Conclusions

ATP1A2 mutations cause phenotypes ranging from pure FHM to FHM with epilepsy and intellectual disability due to varying degrees of deficits in biochemical and electrophysiological properties of Na+/K+-ATPase. Mutations associated with intellectual disability presented with severe impairment of Na+/K+-ATPase. Whether epilepsy is accompanied, or the type of epilepsy did not seem to affect the degree of impairment of pump function.
Inaugural BMC Ecology and Evolution image competition: the winning images
Authors: Harman Jennifer L. , Cuff Alison L. , Settele Josef , Jacobus Luke M. , Liberles David A. , Traulsen Arne
Published: August 2021

The inaugural BMC Ecology and Evolution image competition attracted entries from talented ecologists and evolutionary biologists worldwide. Together, these photos beautifully capture biodiversity, how it arose and why we should conserve it. This editorial celebrates the winning images as selected by the Editor of BMC Ecology and Evolution and senior members of the journal’s editorial board.