bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How data-driven reform can drive deficit thinking
Authors: Bertrand Melanie , Marsh Julie
Published: April 2021

Propelled by accountability policies, leaders have touted data-driven decision making as a means to improve K-12 student outcomes and drive equity, as teachers analyze data to change instruction. However, many data-driven decision-making reforms have failed to challenge inequity. Melanie Bertrand and Julie Marsh’s study of six middle schools shows that teachers’ deficit thinking about emergent bilingual students, students with disabilities, and “struggling” students contributes to this failure of data reforms. They argue that blaming these groups for test scores ultimately works to uphold systemic racism, white supremacy, and other forms of injustice, and they conclude by offering recommendations for policy and practice.
Teachers beware and vet with care: Online educational marketplaces
Authors: Archambault Leanna , Shelton Catharyn , Harris Lauren McArthur
Published: April 2021

Today, millions of teachers search online to locate ideas and activities for classroom use. While some may visit established curricular sites with vetted classroom materials, many others turn to online educational marketplaces such as TeachersPayTeachers. However, issues of quality on these sites remain in question — particularly when it comes to the extent to which diverse perspectives are included or excluded. Leanna Archambault, Catharyn Shelton, and Lauren McArthur Harris highlight concerns surrounding the limited perspectives present in online educational marketplaces and provide research-driven guidelines for educators evaluating resources from such sites.
Interferential current and photobiomodulation in knee osteoarthritis: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial
Authors: Alqualo-Costa Renata , Rampazo Érika Patrícia , Thome Gustavo Ribeiro , Perracini Mônica Rodrigues , Liebano Richard Eloin
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

To evaluate the effects of interferential current and photobiomodulation in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Design:

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial.

Setting:

Physiotherapy Clinic of City University of São Paulo.

Subjects:

A total of 184 patients with knee osteoarthritis were recruited and, of these, 168 were included and randomized into four groups with 42 each: interferential current, photobiomodulation, interferential current plus photobiomodulation or placebo groups. One hundred and sixty-four patients completed the study.

Intervention:

Patients received 12 sessions (three times a week) of treatment: 30 minutes of interferential current (active or placebo) followed by photobiomodulation (active or placebo).

Main measures:

Primary outcome: pain intensity at rest and during movement (numeric rating scale) after 12 sessions. Secondary outcomes: functional capacity (Timed Up & Go and Sit and Lift tests and Lequesne and WOMAC questionnaires), pressure pain threshold, conditioned pain modulation, and muscle strength production (isokinetic evaluation). Patients were assessed at baseline, after 12 sessions, and three and six months after the end of the treatment.

Results:

Interferential current plus photobiomodulation reduced pain intensity at rest and during movement compared to placebo and interferential current at all time points ( P < 0.05). Photobiomodulation reduced pain intensity at rest compared to placebo at all time points ( P < 0.05) and compared to interferential current at six months follow-up ( P < 0.05). Photobiomodulation reduced pain intensity during movement compared to placebo at six months follow-up ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Interferential current plus photobiomodulation or isolated photobiomodulation improve pain intensity in knee osteoarthritis.
Postural and clinical outcomes of sustained natural apophyseal glides treatment in cervicogenic dizziness patients: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Micarelli Alessandro , Viziano Andrea , Granito Ivan , Carlino Pasquale , Micarelli Riccardo Xavier , Augimeri Ivan , Alessandrini Marco
Published: April 2021

Objective:

To evaluate how self-report and posturographic measures could be affected in patients with cervicogenic dizziness undergoing sustained natural apophyseal glides.

Design:

Randomised controlled single-blind study.

Setting:

Tertiary rehabilitation centre.

Subjects:

Patients affected by cervicogenic dizziness, diagnosed by applying accepted criteria. Forty-one patients (19 male, 22 female: mean age 44.3 ± 14.8 years) receiving treatment, and 39 patients (18 male, 21 female: mean age 43.8 ± 13.9 years) receiving placebo were included in the study.

Interventions:

The treatment group underwent sustained natural apophyseal glides, while the placebo was constituted by a detuned laser. Both groups received their interventions six times over 4 weeks.

Main measures:

Outcomes were tested by means of self-report measures such as perceived dizziness, neck disability, anxiety and depression. Also, cervical range of motion and posturography testing with power spectra frequency were analysed.

Results:

When compared to placebo, treated patients demonstrated a significant decrease in perceived dizziness (post-treatment total Dizziness Handicap Inventory score 20.5 ± 5.3 as compared to 26.2 ± 6 baseline), neck disability and pain (Neck Disability Index and Neck Pain Index post-treatment scores 12.5 ± 4.3 and 45.6 ± 15.1, respectively, as compared to baseline scores of 15.1 ± 4.8 and 62.5 ± 14.3), as well as significant improvement in cervical range of motion and some posturographic parameters.

Conclusion:

Sustained natural apophyseal glides may represent a useful intervention in reaching short-term beneficial effects in patients with cervicogenic dizziness, with respect to self-perceived symptoms, proprioceptive integration and cervical range of motion improvement.
Investigating the effect of crocin on memory deficits induced by total sleep deprivation (TSD) with respect to the BDNF, TrkB and ERK levels in the hippocampus of male Wistar rats
Authors: Looti Bashiyan Malihe , Nasehi Mohammad , Vaseghi Salar , Khalifeh Solmaz
Published: April 2021

Background:

Sleep deprivation (SD) induces cognitive impairments such as memory deficit. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is considered as the most critical neurotrophin in the central nervous system that is involved in sleep and memory. The main receptor of BDNF, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), is dramatically expressed in the hippocampus. Also, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) has a significant role in memory function. Crocin is a carotenoid chemical compound and the active component of the flower Crocus sativus L. (saffron) that improves memory function and increases the level of BDNF, TrkB and ERK.

Aims:

In this research, we aimed to investigate the effect of total SD (TSD, 24 h) and crocin on memory performance, and BDNF, TrkB and ERK hippocampal levels.

Methods:

Passive avoidance memory was assessed using step-through, and working memory was measured using Y-maze tasks. The level of proteins in both hemispheres of the hippocampus was evaluated using Western blotting. Crocin was injected intraperitoneally at doses of 1, 5 and 15 mg/kg.

Results:

Twenty-four-hour TSD impaired both types of memories and decreased the level of all proteins in both hemispheres of the hippocampus. Crocin at all doses restored TSD-induced memory deficits. Crocin (15 mg/kg) reversed the effect of TSD on levels of all proteins.

Conclusions:

The adverse effect of TSD on the level of proteins in the hippocampus may disrupt synaptic plasticity and transmission, which induces memory impairment. Additionally, the restoration effect of crocin on the decrease in protein levels may be involved in its improvement effect on memory performance.
Increasing the Number Sense Understanding of Preschool Students With ASD
Authors: Ingelin Bonnie L. , Intepe-Tingir Seyma , Hammons Nanette C.
Published: April 2021

Teaching children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) academic skills supports their future opportunities. For example, early number sense skills are predictive of future mathematical success for all children including children with ASD. Yet, research on foundational early childhood mathematics skills of children with ASD is limited. This study used an adapted version of Number Talks to increase the number sense skills of preschool children with ASD. Number Talks is a constructivist approach that was combined with systematic instruction (i.e., system of least prompts and modeling) in this study. A multiple probe across participants design established a functional relation between using an adapted version of Number Talks and the early number sense skills of preschool children with ASD. Findings suggest using an adapted version of Number Talks can increase the early number sense skills of preschool children with ASD. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Connexin43 promotes angiogenesis through activating the HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway under chronic cerebral hypoperfusion
Authors: Yu Weiwei , Jin Haiqiang , Sun Wei , Nan Ding , Deng Jianwen , Jia Jingjing , Yu Zemou , Huang Yining
Published: April 2021

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, a major vascular contributor to vascular cognitive impairment and dementia, can exacerbate small vessel pathology. Connexin43, the most abundant gap junction protein in brain tissue, has been found to be critically involved in the pathological changes of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. However, the precise mechanisms underpinning its role are unclear. We established a mouse model via bilateral common carotid arteries stenosis on connexin43 heterozygous male mice and demonstrated that connexin43 improves brain blood flow recovery by mediating reparative angiogenesis under chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, which subsequently reduces the characteristic pathologies of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia including white matter lesions and irreversible neuronal injury. We additionally found that connexin43 mediates hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression and then activates the PKA signaling pathway to regulate vascular endothelial growth factor-induced angiogenesis. All the above findings were replicated in bEnd.3 cells treated with 375 µM CoCl2 in vitro. These results suggest that connexin 43 could be instrumental in developing potential therapies for vascular cognitive impairment and dementia caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.
Cerebral cortical microinfarcts in patients with internal carotid artery occlusion
Authors: van den Brink Hilde , Ferro Doeschka A , Bresser Jeroen de , Bron Esther E , Onkenhout Laurien P , Kappelle L Jaap , Biessels Geert Jan ,   Heart-Brain Connection Consortium
Published: April 2021

Cerebral cortical microinfarcts (CMI) are small ischemic lesions that are associated with cognitive impairment and probably have multiple etiologies. Cerebral hypoperfusion has been proposed as a causal factor. We studied CMI in patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion, as a model for cerebral hemodynamic compromise. We included 95 patients with a complete ICA occlusion (age 66.2 ± 8.3, 22% female) and 125 reference participants (age 65.5 ± 7.4, 47% female). Participants underwent clinical, neuropsychological, and 3 T brain MRI assessment. CMI were more common in patients with an ICA occlusion (54%, median 2, range 1–33) than in the reference group (6%, median 0; range 1–7; OR 14.3; 95% CI 6.2–33.1; p<.001). CMI were more common ipsilateral to the occlusion than in the contralateral hemisphere (median 2 and 0 respectively; p<.001). In patients with CMI compared to patients without CMI, the number of additional occluded or stenosed cervical arteries was higher ( p=.038), and cerebral blood flow was lower (B −6.2 ml/min/100 ml; 95% CI −12.0:–0.41; p=.036). In conclusion, CMI are common in patients with an ICA occlusion, particularly in the hemisphere of the occluded ICA. CMI burden was related to the severity of cervical arterial compromise, supporting a role of hemodynamics in CMI etiology.
Efficacy of combination therapy with gabapentin and guanfacine for paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity following hypoxic encephalopathy: a case report
Authors: Miyoshi Takafumi , Mizushima Chikaru , Noborio Yayoi , Kimoto Yasunori , Nakaharu Yasue , Shimamoto Shinsaku
Published: April 2021

Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) is a clinical syndrome of episodic sympathetic hyperactivities following severe acquired brain injury. It is characterized by paroxysmal hyperthermia, tachycardia, hypertension, tachypnea, excessive diaphoresis, and specific posturing. Although the persistence of PSH increases the risk of several adverse events and worsens the prognosis, pharmacological treatments for PSH have not yet been clearly established. We report the valuable case of a 60-year-old man who developed PSH following hypoxic encephalopathy, which was effectively treated with a combination therapy of gabapentin and guanfacine. The present case suggests that combination therapy with gabapentin and guanfacine may be a therapeutic option for PSH.
A novel compound heterozygous variant in SMARCAL1 leading to mild Schimke immune-osseous dysplasia identified using whole-exome sequencing
Authors: Wang Li , Li Jingjing , Wu Ge , Kong Xiangdong
Published: April 2021

Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia (SIOD) is a rare autosomal recessive inherited disorder that is caused by the SMARCAL1 mutation. The phenotype can vary from mild to severe on the basis of the patient’s age at onset. Herein, we report the case of a 14-year-old Chinese boy who presented with short stature, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), and facial dysmorphism. Genetic analysis revealed two compound heterozygous missense mutations, including a well-known mutation (c.1933C>T, p.R645C) and a novel mutation (c.2479G>A, p.V827M) in the SMARCAL1 gene, which were inherited from his parents. In silico analyses showed that the c.2479G>A (p.V827M) variant affects a highly conserved residue within the ATPase catalytic domain. Finally, we established the diagnosis of mild SIOD and treated the patient with diuretics and angiotensin receptor blockers. This report expands the mutational spectrum of SMARCAL1 and reinforces the importance of a detailed clinical evaluation, molecular detection, and appropriate genetic counseling.
Toxic remains: Infrastructural failure in a Ugandan molecular biology lab
Authors: Calkins Sandra
Published: April 2021

This article complicates romances of infrastructural improvisation by describing infrastructural failures that expose researchers to hazardous chemicals in a Ugandan molecular biology lab. To meet project deadlines, to make careers and to participate in transnational collaborative projects, Ugandan biologists have to stand in for decaying or absent infrastructures with their bodies. Ugandan biologists hide such sacrifices from their international scientific partners and direct the blame elsewhere. An unclear culpability results precisely from the ways in which power works and is distributed across transnational scientific infrastructures.
Field Validation of Effective Dispersion Analysis of Reflections, a New Method for Nondestructive Estimation of Pile Depth
Authors: Samu Vivek , Guddati Murthy
Published: April 2021

Several methods have been developed for nondestructive pile depth estimation over the past few decades, with impact-based methods remaining popular because of their ease of application. Sonic-echo techniques rely on generating nondispersive longitudinal waves by impacting the pile top and subsequently picking peaks that correspond to initial and reflected wave arrivals. Unfortunately, pile tops are often inaccessible for in-service foundations and alternate impacting techniques result in signals for which time domain peak picking can be difficult. Pile sides are often easily accessible, but side impact generates highly dispersive flexural waves resulting in complicated waveforms for which analysis is not straightforward. Existing methods to process dispersive flexural waves rely on signal processing based methods and do not explicitly incorporate the physical dispersion properties of the system, resulting in large errors. To address the current limitations, a new method called effective dispersion analysis of reflections (EDAR) was recently developed for pile length estimation. EDAR provides a simple and robust technique to analyze dispersive flexural waves generated from side impact for which time domain processing is not applicable. In this paper, length estimation through EDAR is explained for longitudinal and flexural waves using synthetic bar and Timoshenko beam models. Field validation for two types of pile, concrete filled steel tubes and prestressed concrete, with varying cross sections and embedment are presented. EDAR resulted in pile length estimates within 10% error.
Regional Perspective of Safety Performance Functions and Their Application to Florida Intersections in Suburban Residential and Urban General Context Classification Categories
Authors: Gamaleldin Ghalia , Al-Deek Haitham , Sandt Adrian , McCombs John , El-Urfali Alan
Published: April 2021

Safety performance functions (SPFs) are essential tools to help agencies predict crashes and understand influential factors. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has implemented a context classification system which classifies intersections into eight context categories rather than the three classifications used in the Highway Safety Manual (HSM). Using this system, regional SPFs could be developed for 32 intersection types (unsignalized and signalized 3-leg and 4-leg for each category) rather than the 10 HSM intersection types. In this paper, eight individual intersection group SPFs were developed for the C3R-Suburban Residential and C4-Urban General categories and compared with full SPFs for these categories. These comparisons illustrate the unique and regional insights that agencies can gain by developing these individual SPFs. Poisson, negative binomial, zero-inflated, and boosted regression tree models were developed for each studied group as appropriate, with the best model selected for each group based on model interpretability and five performance measures. Additionally, a linear regression model was built to predict minor roadway traffic volumes for intersections which were missing these volumes. The full C3R and C4 SPFs contained four and six significant variables, respectively, while the individual intersection group SPFs in these categories contained six and nine variables. Factors such as major median, intersection angle, and FDOT District 7 regional variable were absent from the full SPFs. By developing individual intersection group SPFs with regional factors, agencies can better understand the factors and regional differences which affect crashes in their jurisdictions and identify effective treatments.
Assessment of urban solid waste management systems for Industry 4.0 technology interventions and the circular economy
Authors: Kanojia Abhishek , Visvanathan Chettiyappan
Published: April 2021

The ongoing fourth industrial revolution, Industry 4.0 (I4.0), is transforming various industries across the globe. At the same time, resource scarcity with high consumption rates has led to the development of the circular economy. Both concepts advocate for sustainable growth and waste minimization. In developing countries, the integrated solid waste management framework is undergoing modification under I4.0 and the circular economy. Urban local bodies are often unable to measure the readiness of their waste management systems to transform under I4.0 and the circular economy. Here the novel concept of Waste 4.0 is developed. ‘Waste 4.0’ is a readiness assessment tool to promote the comprehensive transformation of municipal solid waste management under I4.0 and circular economy. This tool has eight determinants for assessing the municipal solid waste management of urban local bodies. To validate Waste 4.0 the urban local bodies of Indore and Sagar, India were used as case studies. The readiness index for I4.0 in the municipal solid waste management system in Indore and Sagar was 0.72 and 0.14, respectively. The readiness index for circular economy focus in Indore and Sagar was 0.65 and 0.13, respectively. The Indore urban local body was classified as an ‘Experienced’ player for I4.0 Intervention and a ‘circular economy fast adopter’ for circular economy focus under I4.0 readiness. The Sagar urban local body was classified as a ‘Hesitator’ player for I4.0 Intervention and achieved the ‘Business as usual’ tag for circular economy focus under I4.0 readiness. With the Waste 4.0 assessment results urban local bodies can better plan and thus transform their municipal solid waste management systems under I4.0 and the circular economy.
Thermal properties of polybenzoxazine exhibiting improved toughness: Blending with cyclodextrin and its derivatives
Authors: Li Hailong , Zhao Sipei , Pei Li , Qiao Zihe , Han Ding , Liu Zhanxin , Lian Qingsong , Zhao Guizhe , Wang Zhi
Published: April 2021

Polybenzoxazines are emerging as a class of high-performance thermoset polymers that can find their applications in various fields. However, its practical application is limited by its low toughness. The cyclic β-cyclodextrin and a newly synthesized derivative (β-cyclodextrin-MAH) were separately blended with benzoxazine to improve the toughness of polybenzoxazine. The results revealed that the maximum impact strength of the blend was 12.24 kJ·m−2 and 14.29 kJ·m−2 when 1 wt.% of β-Cyclodextrin and β-Cyclodextrin-MAH, respectively, were used. The strengths were 53% and 86% higher than that of pure polybenzoxazine. The curing reaction, possible chemical structures, and fractured surface were examined using differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy techniques to understand the mechanism of generation of toughness. The results revealed that the sea-island structure and the presence of hydrogen bonds between polybenzoxazine and β-cyclodextrin and β-cyclodextrin-MAH resulted in the generation of toughness. Furthermore, the curves generated during thermogravimetric analysis did not significantly change, revealing the good thermal properties of the system. The phase-separated structure and the hydrogen bonds present in the system can be exploited to prepare synergistically tough polybenzoxazine exhibiting excellent thermal properties. This can be a potential way of modifying the thermoset resins.
The effect of different mixing methods on morphology and mechanical properties of PP/EPDM/talc blend
Authors: Yazdani Hamid , Mousavi Nayereh Sadat
Published: April 2021

To overcome the low modulus and low maximum service temperature of polypropylene (PP) and ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) blends, incorporation of talc into blend have been considered. In this study, the effect of various mixing methods of morphological behavior and mechanical properties of PP/EPDM/talc compound were investigated. Samples were prepared by different methods in internal mixer and co-rotating twin-screw extruder. It was found, the tensile properties were not affected by applying different mixing methods.The highest impact resistance was related to sample which had pre-blending on two roll mills and finally mixed in the internal mixer. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs showed that the rubber dispersed morphology for all samples and the finest morphology was related to sample with the highest impact resistance. Because of pre-blending of EPDM/talc on two roll mills, this sample showed the best dispersion and distribution of talc.
Post-neoliberal housing policy? Disentangling recent reforms in New York, Berlin and Vienna
Authors: Kadi Justin , Vollmer Lisa , Stein Samuel
Published: April 2021

In cities worldwide, the housing question has returned. As demands and proposals by housing movements have grown bolder, city governments are implementing new policies, ranging from small tweaks to major overhauls. This paper takes a close look at New York City, Berlin and Vienna, assessing their current housing policy landscapes. We evaluate to what extent those cities’ recent housing reforms depart from the dominant, neoliberal policy landscape of recent decades and can be categorized as ‘post-neoliberal’. We do so through the criteria of affordability, decommodification and democratization. The three selected cities display varying histories of housing systems and neoliberalization, enabling us to search for post-neoliberal policies in three distinct institutional contexts. We find a common pattern across cases: recent reforms have improved affordability and dampened hyper-commodification, but little has been done to address the democratization of housing and planning systems. By way of conclusion, we discuss some of the structural factors that impede attempts at developing a genuinely post-neoliberal transformation of local housing policies.
The relationship between psychosocial trauma type and conversion (functional neurological) disorder symptoms: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Morsy Shimaa K. , Huepe-Artigas Daniela , Kamal Ahmed M. , Hassan Maha Ali , Abdel-Fadeel Nashaat Adel , Kanaan Richard A. A.
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Psychosocial trauma was associated with developing conversion disorder (also known as functional neurological disorder) before Freud, though why a particular symptom should arise is unknown. We aimed to determine if there was a relationship between trauma type and symptom.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients attending Australia’s first functional neurology clinic, including referral, clinic letters and a clinic questionnaire.

Results:

There were 106 females, 43 males and five transgender patients. Sensory (51%), motor (47%) and seizures (39%) were the commonest functional symptoms. Most patients (92%) reported stressors associated with symptom onset. Multiple trauma/symptom type associations were found: patients with in-law problems experienced more cognitive symptoms ( p = .036), for example, while expressive speech problems more commonly followed relationship difficulties ( p = .021).

Conclusion:

Associations were found between type of traumatic events and type of symptoms in conversion disorder. This will require verification in a larger sample.
Re-Visioning Immigrant Couple Therapy: Immigrant Couples in the United States and Telebehavioral Health
Authors: Rajaei Afarin , Sahebi Bahareh
Published: April 2021

This article aimed to address the following question: In what specific ways, can couple therapists improve their work with immigrant couples via telebehavioral health (TBH)? This article offers perspectives from experience working with immigrant couples via telehealth, which include key barriers to using in-person therapy for immigrant couples, the effectiveness of TBH for immigrant couples, and consideration for couple therapists as they venture into TBH with immigrant couples. With a focus on the expansion of services, one way to improve health equity for immigrant couples and bridge the gap between the traditional health care system and couples in undeserved communities is by developing TBH systems, which may lead to increase access to care for clients as well as expand provider options and resources.
The Influence of Gender, Income, and Religious Beliefs on Life Satisfaction Through Affect and Stress in Families With and Without Mental Illness
Authors: Kim Taehee , Crowe Allison
Published: April 2021

The aim of the study was to explore the influence of gender, income, and religious beliefs on life satisfaction through affect and stress in families with and without mental illness. We examined variations depending on the presence of mental illness and minority status. Results indicated that the influence of gender, income, and religion on life satisfaction through affect and stress varied between families. Males with a family member with mental illness showed significant negative affect, while those without a family member with mental illness did not show gender differences in negative affect. Results also indicated that higher income did not significantly reduce negative affect in individuals with a family member with mental illness, regardless of minority status. Gender, income, and religious beliefs were not indirectly related to life satisfaction through affect and stress for individuals who had a family member with mental illness. These results are discussed, and clinical implications are offered.
Marital Satisfaction of Portuguese Families in Times of Social Lockdown
Authors: Fernandes Carla Sílvia , Magalhães Bruno , Silva Sílvia , Edra Beatriz
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a global threat and crisis situation, and its wide-reaching impact has also affected marital satisfaction. Dysfunction of the marital system puts the survival of the family unit at risk. This research aimed to determine the level of marital satisfaction of Portuguese families during the social lockdown and the association between the variables under study. A descriptive, exploratory study was conducted. During the social lockdown, 276 people of Portuguese nationality and residing in Portugal were recruited using nonprobabilistic convenience sampling. Marital satisfaction in the pandemic phase showed low values that may be associated with the social, economic, and political context experienced by the pandemic situation. Future research must be carried out in order to identify, prevent, and intervene in situations of violence. In addition, future research should explore not only marital satisfaction during the current pandemic but a more systemic assessment of marital relations during crises, expanding the impact of marital satisfaction in family functioning.
Patient Outcomes Following Ankle Fracture Fixation
Authors: Chong Han Hong , Hau Melinda Y.T. , Mishra Pranav , Rai Paul , Mangwani Jitendra
Published: April 2021

Background:

Several studies have reported on potential negative predictive factors of functional outcomes after ankle fracture fixation. However, there is minimal patient-reported data on long-term outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate potential risk factors leading to a poor patient-reported functional outcome at 2 and 5 years following ankle fracture fixation.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective cohort study over a 5-year period on patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation for unstable ankle fractures. Patient demographics, medical comorbidities, fracture pattern, and fixation quality were recorded and analyzed. Patients were followed up at 2 and 5 years. Data collected include the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), ongoing issues, and the need for further intervention. A P value <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Out of 180 patients, follow-up data were available for 82 (46%) patients at 2 years and 94 (52%) patients at 5 years. At 2 years, age ≥60 years was a predictor of worse LEFS, while a body mass index ≥30 was a predictor of worse OMAS. Severely deformed ankle at presentation showed worse OMAS and LEFS score. However, these predictive factors were not significant at 5 years. An anatomically reduced ankle fracture fixation was more likely to have a better functional outcome at the 2- and 5-year follow-ups. A reduction in OMAS at 2 years was predictive of possible ongoing issues following surgery, which in turn increased the odds of worsening OMAS at 5 years.

Conclusion:

Achieving adequate fracture reduction during fixation is crucial for better ankle functional recovery postinjury. In this cohort, we found that patients who undergo ankle fracture fixation will have an ongoing negative impact on their functional and physical capacity at both 2 and 5 years postoperatively. Appropriate patient counseling is necessary to prepare them for the expected functional outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prognostic.
Constrained liners revisited: favourable mid-term results in patients with high-risk of dislocation: technical considerations for the optimal outcome
Authors: Kenanidis Eustathios , Kakoulidis Panagiotis , Anagnostis Panagiotis , Potoupnis Michael , Tsiridis Eleftherios
Published: April 2021

Background:

The outcomes of constrained liners (CLs) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) remain inconclusive. We evaluated the mid-term performance of CLs in a consecutive series of high-risk dislocation patients undergoing primary or revision THA performed by a single surgeon. The survival, dislocation rate, complications, and functional patients’ scores were assessed. Surgical tips to enhance outcomes were reviewed.

Methods:

45 patients who received the Trident Tripolar CL between 2010 to 2019 were retrospectively evaluated from Arthroplasty Registry Thessaloniki. There were 17 primary and 28 revision THAs. The primary indications for using CL were severe abductor insufficiency or comorbidities, increasing the dislocation risk in primary, and recurrent dislocation or abductor insufficiency in revision THAs. The mean patient’s age was 68.5 (±14.5) years, and the mean follow-up 3.81 (±1.66) years.

Results:

There were 2 dislocations and 1 deep infection in the revision group. For any reason, the cumulative 6-year survival rate was 93.3%, 100% for primary, and 89.3% for revision THAs. The mean overall CL survival was 76.3 months for any reason (95% CI, 68.1–84.5) and 80.5 months for dislocation (95% CI, 75.8–85.2). The mean postoperative functional scores were significantly improved ( p < 0.001) at the latest follow-up.

Conclusions:

CLs can provide hip stability and durable fixation in selected low-demand patients with high-risk for dislocation after primary and revision THA at mid-term follow-up. Careful patient selection and the refined surgical technique aiming at the neutral liner position and considering the high CLs’ offset relative to stem-neck impingement are necessary to maximise outcomes.
Prediction of suitable heat treatment for H13 tool steels by application of thermal shock fatigue cycle
Authors: Karthikeyan Palani , Pramanik Sumit
Published: April 2021

In industry, thermally shocked components lead to early failures and unexpected breakdowns during production resulting in huge losses in profit. Thus, the present study investigates the as-received, hardened and hardened and nitrogen treated H13 tool steels subjected to a thermal shock gradient similar to the actual industrial applications. The thermal shock gradients were created by using an in-house-built thermal shock fatigue cyclic treatment machine. The effect of thermal shock fatigue cyclic treatments at 1000 and 2000 thermal shock cycles in hot and molten metal chambers was noticed. All the thermal shock fatigue cyclic-treated samples were analysed by hardness, X-ray diffraction, microscopy and magnetic tests. The interesting changes in hardness, distorted crystal structure and crack initiation were found to be different for differently treated H13 tool steel specimens. The molten aluminium was more prone to stick to the surface of as-received as well as hardened and nitrogen treated steel compared to the hardened H13 steel specimens, which would delay the crack initiation. The wear resistance properties of the hardened H13 steel specimens were found to be higher than as-received and hardened and nitrogen treated H13 steel specimens after thermal shock fatigue cyclic treatment. The loss in magnetic properties was significant for the hardened and hardened and nitrogen treated samples compared to as-received H13 tool steel specimens. Therefore, the present 1000 and 2000 thermal fatigue cycles for 30 s at 670 °C would be worthy to predict the proper heat treatment method to design the parameters as well as the life of die-casting components and to help in the economical production of casting.
Developing the practice of pre-service physical education teachers through a dyad model of lesson study
Authors: Lamb Penny , King Graham
Published: April 2021

This article reports on a dyad model of lesson study aimed at scaffolding the theory and practice of learning to teach physical education. Participants were pre-service teachers (PSTs) completing a 38-week Master’s-level Postgraduate Certificate in Education in eastern England, training to teach the secondary age range (11–18 years). A total of 40 PSTs volunteered to participate in the study during their school-based training. A three-year cross-sectional case-study framework involving three distinct cohorts of PSTs allowed for a comparison of data, captured through computer-mediated communication. Dialogue through email communications and electronic evaluations was analysed inductively. Three substantive themes were identified as a result of the PSTs’ experiences: (a) developing confidence in the classroom through collaboration with a peer; (b) developing physical education pedagogies to support students’ individual learning needs; and (c) developing physical education pedagogies to support assessment of students’ progress. The dyad lesson study model provided a safe and non-hierarchical platform for collaboration between PSTs. Peer-to-peer reflection on aspects of their own practice instilled confidence and enhanced understanding, particularly in relation to understanding students’ individual learning needs to promote progress and assessing such progress. Dyad lesson study positively supported PSTs’ professional development against prescribed Teachers’ Standards beyond the formal hierarchical rules and structures associated with the school-based training process. Such collaborative conversations can help to minimise professional isolation for PSTs during their school-based training and address the juxtaposition of connecting the theory of learning to teach with a holistic view of student learning in practice.
Prejudice confrontation styles: A validated and reliable measure of how people confront prejudice
Authors: Chaney Kimberly E. , Sanchez Diana T.
Published: April 2021

While research has demonstrated that confrontations of prejudice serve as effective prejudice reduction tools and as a coping mechanism for targets of prejudice, research has yet to identify a validated measurement of prejudice confrontation styles. The present research develops the Prejudice Confrontation Styles (PCS) Scale, which includes five styles of prejudice confrontation: Educational, Argumentative, Help-seeking, Empathy, and Humor. The factor structure of the PCS Scale is identified across two diverse samples employing exploratory (Study 1) and confirmatory (Study 2) factor analyses. Moreover, the PCS Scale demonstrates construct validity, predicting imagined confrontation styles two weeks later among women confronting prejudice, and prejudice confrontation styles moderated autonomy, rumination, and perceived effectiveness of prejudice confrontations (Study 3). Thus, the present research identifies and develops a tool to measure prejudice confrontation styles and demonstrates that prejudice confrontation styles are associated with divergent psychological health outcomes.
Visualization Ability of Phase-Contrast Synchrotron-Based X-Ray Imaging Using an X-Ray Interferometer in Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Lwin Thet-Thet , Yoneyama Akio , Maruyama Hiroko , Takeda Tohoru
Published: April 2021

Phase-contrast synchrotron-based X-ray imaging using an X-ray interferometer provides high sensitivity and high spatial resolution, and it has the ability to depict the fine morphological structures of biological soft tissues, including tumors. In this study, we quantitatively compared phase-contrast synchrotron-based X-ray computed tomography images and images of histopathological hematoxylin-eosin-stained sections of spontaneously occurring rat testicular tumors that contained different types of cells. The absolute densities measured on the phase-contrast synchrotron-based X-ray computed tomography images correlated well with the densities of the nuclear chromatin in the histological images, thereby demonstrating the ability of phase-contrast synchrotron-based X-ray imaging using an X-ray interferometer to reliably identify the characteristics of cancer cells within solid soft tissue tumors. In addition, 3-dimensional synchrotron-based phase-contrast X-ray computed tomography enables screening for different structures within tumors, such as solid, cystic, and fibrous tissues, and blood clots, from any direction and with a spatial resolution down to 26 μm. Thus, phase-contrast synchrotron-based X-ray imaging using an X-ray interferometer shows potential for being useful in preclinical cancer research by providing the ability to depict the characteristics of tumor cells and by offering 3-dimensional information capabilities.
Cytokinesis regulators as potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Qiao Yiting , Pei Yunxin , Luo Miao , Rajasekaran Muthukumar , Hui Kam M , Chen Jianxiang
Published: April 2021

Cytokinesis, the final step of mitosis, is critical for maintaining the ploidy level of cells. Cytokinesis is a complex, highly regulated process and its failure can lead to genetic instability and apoptosis, contributing to the development of cancer. Human hepatocellular carcinoma is often accompanied by a high frequency of aneuploidy and the DNA ploidy pattern observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma results mostly from impairments in cytokinesis. Many key regulators of cytokinesis are abnormally expressed in human hepatocellular carcinoma, and their expression levels are often correlated with patient prognosis. Moreover, preclinical studies have demonstrated that the inhibition of key cytokinesis regulators can suppress the growth of human hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the signaling networks regulating cytokinesis, the key cytokinesis regulators involved in the initiation and development of human hepatocellular carcinoma, and their applications as potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers.
Systemic analysis of the expression levels and prognosis of breast cancer-related cadherins
Authors: Xu Mingfei , Liu Chaoyue , Pu Lulan , Lai Jinrong , Li Jingjia , Ning Qianwen , Liu Xin , Deng Shishan
Published: April 2021

Cadherins form connection between cells, facilitate communication, and serve as essential agents in the progression of multiple cancers. Over 100 cadherins have been identified and they are mainly divided into four groups: classical cadherins (CDHs), protocadherins (PCDHs), desmosomal (DSC), and cadherin-related proteins. Accumulating evidence has indicated that several members of the cadherins are involved in breast cancer development. Nevertheless, the expression profiles and corresponding prognostic outcomes of these breast cancer-related cadherins are yet to be analyzed. Here, we examined the expression levels and prognostic potential of these breast cancer-related cadherins from the specific databases viz. oncomine, gene expression profiling interactive analysis, human protein atlas, UALCAN, Kaplan–Meier Plotter, and cBioPortal. We found that the CDH2/11 levels were higher in breast cancer tissues, compared to healthy breast tissues, whereas with CDH3-5, PCDH8/10, and DSC3, the levels were lower in the former than in the latter. Additionally, for CDH1/6/13/17/23, PCDH7, and FAT4, trancript level alterations between breast cancer and healthy tissues varied across different databases. The CDH1 protein levels were elevated in breast cancer tissues versus healthy breast tissues, whereas the protein levels of CDH3/11 and PCDH8/10 were reduced in breast cancer, compared to healthy breast tissues. For CDH15 and CDH23, the expression levels paralleled tumor stage. Survival analysis, using the Kaplan–Meier Plotter database, demonstrated that elevated CDH1-3 levels correlated with diminished relapse-free survival in breast cancer patients. Alternately, enhanced CDH4-6/15/17/23, PCDH10, DSC3, and FAT4 levels estimated a rise in relapse-free survival of breast cancer patients. These data suggest CDH1-3 to be a promising target for breast cancer precision therapy and CDH4-6/15/17/23, PCDH10, DSC3, and FAT4 to be novel biomarkers for breast cancer prognosis.
Sonographic Evaluation of a Perpetual Penetrating Retained Wood Splinter, Ulnar Artery Occlusion, and Soft Tissue Swelling in the Left Arm
Authors: Masri Dianne
Published: April 2021

Penetrating foreign bodies are frequently encountered, most commonly wood, glass, or metal slivers. Retained foreign bodies are often overlooked on initial examination and only 15% of wooden foreign bodies are detected by radiographic visualization such as radiography (X-ray), computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Soft tissue infection is the most common complication of a penetrating foreign body. This case report describes a 63-year-old man who was caught under a falling tree limb. His left forearm was speared by a large branch causing an open wound. Ten years later, the patient presented to the emergency department with pain, edema, and erythema. A left arm venous duplex was performed using dynamic B-mode imaging with pulsed Doppler to evaluate the venous system for thrombosis and a palpable mass. Sonography revealed a “perpetual” retained linear foreign body encased in a fluid collection and a distal ulnar artery occlusion with reconstitution of flow at the level of the wrist. Surgical correlation confirmed the presence, size, and location of the foreign body and associated fluid and debris. The foreign body, a wood splinter, was surgically removed without complications.
The Relationship Between Follower Affect for President Trump and the Adoption of COVID-19 Personal Protective Behaviors
Authors: Moss Sherry E. , Kessler Stacey R. , Martinko Mark J. , Mackey Jeremy D.
Published: April 2021

In the current series of studies, we draw upon implicit leadership theories, social learning theory, and research on decision making to investigate whether affect toward President Trump explains U.S. residents’ evaluations of his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, as well as the likelihood that that residents engage in personal protective behaviors. A meta-analysis using 17 nationally representative datasets with a total of 26,876 participants indicated that participants who approve of President Trump tend to approve of his leadership regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and were less likely to engage in personal protective behavior (PPBs; i.e., hand washing, wearing a mask or other face covering in public, and social distancing). On the other hand, those disapproving of President Trump also tended to disapprove of his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis and were more likely to engage in PPBs. In a second study, using an established measure of leader affect (leader affect questionnaire) and controlling for political party, we replicated and extended these results by demonstrating that expending cognitive effort toward understanding the COVID-19 crisis attenuated the relationship between affect toward President Trump and (1) approval of his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis and (2) engagement in some, but not all, PPBs.