bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scalable Model for Delivery of Inpatient Palliative Care During a Pandemic
Authors: Kaya Ebru , Lewin Warren , Frost David , Hannon Breffni , Zimmermann Camilla
Published: April 2021

Background:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals worldwide have reported large volumes of patients with refractory symptoms and a large number of deaths attributable to COVID-19. This has led to an increase in the demand for palliative care beyond what can be provided by most existing programs. We developed a scalable model to enable continued provision of high-quality palliative care during a pandemic for hospitals without a palliative care unit or existing dedicated palliative care beds.

Methods:

A COVID-19 consultation service working group (CWG) was convened with stakeholders from palliative care, emergency medicine, critical care, and general internal medicine. The CWG connected with local palliative care teams to ensure a coordinated response, and developed a model to ensure high-quality palliative care provision.

Results:

Our 3-step scalable model included: (1) consultant model enhanced by virtual care; (2) embedded model; and (3) cohorted end-of-life unit for COVID-19 positive patients. This approach was enabled through tools and resources to ensure specialist palliative care capacity and rapid upskilling of all clinicians to deliver basic palliative care. Enabling tools and resources included a triage tool for in-person versus virtual care, new medication order sets and guidelines to facilitate prescribing for common symptoms, and lead advance care planning and goals of care discussions. A redeployment plan of generalist physicians and psychiatrists was created to ensure seamless provision of serious illness care.

Conclusion:

This 3-step, scalable approach enables rapid upscaling of palliative care in collaboration with generalist physicians, and may be adapted for future pandemics or natural disasters.
Cleft Alveolar Bone Graft Materials: Literature Review
Authors: Dissaux Caroline , Ruffenach Laetitia , Bruant-Rodier Catherine , George Daniel , Bodin Frédéric , Rémond Yves
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Since the early stages of alveolar bone grafting development, multiple types of materials have been used. Iliac cancellous bone graft (ICBG) remains the gold standard.

Design/Methods:

A review of literature is conducted in order to describe the different bone filling possibilities, autologous or not, and to assess their effectiveness compared to ICBG. This review focused on studies reporting volumetric assessment of the alveolar cleft graft result (by computed tomography scan or cone beam computed tomography).

Results:

Grafting materials fall into 3 types: autologous bone grafts, ICBG supplementary material, and bone substitutes. Among autologous materials, no study showed the superiority of any other bone origin over iliac cancellous bone. Yet ICBG gives inconsistent results and presents donor site morbidity. Concerning supplementary material, only 3 studies could show a benefit of adding platelet-rich fibrin (1 study) or platelet-rich plasma (2 studies) to ICBG, which remains controversial in most studies. There is a lack of 3-dimensional (3D) assessment in most articles concerning the use of scaffolds. Only one study showed graft improvement when adding acellular dermal matrix to ICBG. Looking at bone substitutes highlights failures among bioceramics alone, side-effects with bone morphogenetic protein-2 composite materials, and difficulties in cell therapy setup. Studies assessing cell therapy–based substitutes show comparable efficacy with ICBG but remain too few.

Conclusion:

This review highlights the lack of 3D assessments in the alveolar bone graft materials field. Nothing dethroned ICBG from its position as the gold standard treatment at this time.
Impact of Manual Coordination on Usability of Clothing Fasteners in People With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Nardoni Marteli Leticia , Barbieri Fabio Augusto , Gerizani Gabriel , Pereira das Neves Érica , Paschoarelli Luis Carlos
Published: April 2021

People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) manipulate clothing as part of their daily life. To understand how deteriorating motor skills affect the performance of dressing/undressing activities, this study investigated performance in handling clothing fastening. Participants were distributed into two groups: older adults with PD and neurologically matched healthy individuals (control group). Coordination and usability were evaluated. The PD group demonstrated worse performance than the control group in usability for types of buttons, and this was affected more intensely by small compared with large fasteners. This study demonstrated the need for increased awareness by clothing companies to develop products that can promote independence.
Evaluation of the Implementation Process of a Family Systems Nursing Approach in Home Health Care: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Pusa Susanna , Isaksson Ulf , Sundin Karin
Published: April 2021

To support the incorporation of Family Systems Nursing (FSN) in clinical practice, more understanding is needed about the implementation of FSN in home health practice settings. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate nurses’ perspectives about the implementation process of Family Systems Nursing Conversations (FSNCs) in home health care. A mixed-methods research design was used, integrating qualitative and quantitative data, and using triangulation as a methodological metaphor. The Quality Implementation Framework (QIF) was applied to guide the implementation process, and Proctor et al.’s taxonomy of implementation outcomes was used to evaluate the process. The findings demonstrated that FSN implementation was in progress. Overall, acceptability and appropriateness of FSNCs were evaluated as positive by home health nurses; however, some obstacles were found relating to feasibility, adoption, and fidelity. These results contribute to an increased understanding of the process and challenges of implementing FSNCs in home health care.
Combined control strategy for synchronization control in multi-motor-pendulum vibration system
Authors: Fang Pan , Wang Yuanguo , Zou Min , Zhang Zhiliang
Published: April 2021

Multi-motor-pendulum vibration systems have been applied to design shale shakers in petroleum drilling engineering. However, synchronization of the multi-motor-pendulum vibration system is instable on account of external load disturbance and systematic parameter restriction, which is a principal factor to decrease screening efficiency of shale shakers. In this work, to maintain stability synchronization of three eccentric rotors driven by three induction motors, a combined synchronous control strategy by tracking velocity and phase among the motors is proposed. First, the dynamic model of the system is deduced based on the Lagrange equation. Second, adjacent cross-coupled control combined with master–slave control is designed to control speed and synchronization between the motors in the multi-motor-pendulum vibration system. Third, to ensure the precision and robustness of the control system, the velocity error, phase error, and coupling error controllers are designed with reaching law algorithm and global sliding mode control; and stability of the controller system is validated by the Lyapunov theorem. Finally, the effectiveness of the control strategy is verified by numerical simulation and compared with previous findings. The results indicate that synchronous state and velocity overshoot of the motors can be controlled with the combined control strategy; and robustness of the control strategy is better than other methods.
A Comparison of Different Data-driven Procedures to Determine the Bunching Window
Authors: Dekker Vincent , Schweikert Karsten
Published: April 2021

In this article, we compare three data-driven procedures to determine the bunching window in a Monte Carlo simulation of taxable income. Following the standard approach in the empirical bunching literature, we fit a flexible polynomial model to a simulated income distribution, excluding data in a range around a prespecified kink. First, we propose to implement methods for the estimation of structural breaks to determine a bunching regime around the kink. A second procedure is based on Cook’s distances aiming to identify outlier observations. Finally, we apply the iterative counterfactual procedure proposed by Bosch, Dekker, and Strohmaier which evaluates polynomial counterfactual models for all possible bunching windows. While our simulation results show that all three procedures are fairly accurate, the iterative counterfactual procedure is the preferred method to detect the bunching window when no prior information about the true size of the bunching window is available.
Within-Occupation Forms of Positional Labour Market Advantage in Three Skilled Occupations
Authors: Tholen Gerbrand
Published: April 2021

In recent decades, many scholars have accentuated the role of occupations in social stratification and class analysis. Within occupations, workers compete to improve their labour positioning over time and in the process, create unequal outcomes. Advancement to better positions or improved wages can be dependent on many individual factors such as tenure, skills, experience, and effort. Yet, occupations also allow workers to create relative advantage by closing off opportunities to others or seeking otherwise meaningful distinction. This article aims to explain how the occupational context shapes how those within skilled occupations construct the means of relative labour market advantage. It is based on a wider UK case study of laboratory scientists, software engineers, and financial analysts. It shows that within each occupation, there are distinct forms of creating advantage depending on the nature of the occupation such as the educational composition of the incumbents, the situ of skill development, and the level of educational congestion within the occupation.
Demystifying agritourism development in Fiji: Inclusive growth for smallholders
Authors: Shah Chetan , Shah Shipra , Gibson Dawn
Published: April 2021

Agritourism has gained traction with a variety of stakeholders within the Pacific to supplement farm revenue, create linkages to tourism and ultimately contribute to sustainable economic development. This paper, with a focus on smallholders, examines the key constraints of agriculture, current agritourism products, policy development initiatives, and proposes an open framework for agritourism in Fiji. Among the key considerations are a careful examination of tourist preferences, the promotion of agritourism on working farms without displacing the key activity of food production, and redefining agritourism as a value for money experience rather than a niche market in the Pacific region.
John Watson (1807–1863) and his Pioneer Work On the Surgery of Esophagus
Authors: Laios Konstantinos , Schizas Dimitrios , Tsoucalas Gregory , Androutsos George , Karamanou Marianna
Published: April 2021

Backround. John Watson (1807-1863) was the first surgeon in USA who performed and published his results on esophagotomy. Methods. His pioneer surgical work was a gold standard reference for the later surgeons. Results. Watson was a devoted surgeon and his innovative operating techniques secured him a place in the hall of fame of the history of medicine.
A novel technique for stenting of intracranial stenosis using the Neuroform Atlas stent and Gateway balloon catheter
Authors: Takayanagi Ariel , Cheng Pamela K , Feng Lei
Published: April 2021

Management of intracranial stenosis remains controversial. Stenting for intracranial stenosis has been associated with high complication and restenosis rates. Morbidity may be related to the intracranial microcatheter exchange that is required in stent placement after the angioplasty. We present a technique in which we deploy an Neuroform Atlas stent through the lumen of a Gateway balloon microcatheter in order to avoid intracranial microcatheter exchange and the associated morbidity. We discuss advantages and pitfalls of this novel technique.
Imbalanced flow changes of distal arteries: An important factor in process of delayed ipsilateral parenchymal hemorrhage after flow diversion in patients with cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Li Wenqiang , Zhu Wei , Liu Jian , Yang Xinjian
Published: April 2021

Background and objective

Hemodynamic forces may play a role in symptomatic delayed ipsilateral parenchymal hemorrhage (DIPH) of intracranial aneurysm (IA) after flow diverter placement. We aimed to investigate the hemodynamic risk factors in the postsurgical DIPH process.

Methods

Six patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm developed to DIPH and 12 patients without DIPH (1:2 matched controls) after flow diverter were included between January 2015 to January 2019. Postsurgical hemodynamics of distal arteries (terminal ICA, middle cerebral artery (MCA), anterior cerebral artery (ACA)) were investigated using computational fluid dynamics, as well as the hemodynamic alteration between pre- and post-treatment. The DIPH related and unrelated distal arteries (either MCA or ACA) were discriminated and compared. Definition of imbalance index is the difference in increased velocity post-flow diverter between MCA and ACA and was used to evaluate the blood flow distribution of distal arteries.

Results

The mean and maximum flow velocities in the terminal ICA increased significantly after treatment in both groups. In DIPH group, the increase rate of mean velocity in the DIPH-related artery was significantly higher than that in DIPH-unrelated artery after the treatment (20.98 ± 15.38% vs −6.40 ± 7.74%; p = 0.028). Between the DIPH and control group, the baseline characteristics were well matched. However, a higher imbalance index of mean velocity was found in DIPH group (27.38 ± 13.03% vs 10.85 ± 14.12%; p = 0.031).

Conclusion

The mean velocity of DIPH related artery increased more, and the imbalance in increased blood flow distribution of distal arteries might play an important role in DIPH after flow diverter of IAs.
A postcolonial feminist exploration of the scholarship on women and educational leadership with a bibliometric approach
Authors: Kuzhabekova Aliya
Published: April 2021

This study applied a bibliometric approach to a dataset of publications on women and educational leadership to critically explore the nature of research in the field and the utility of the bibliometric method in its mapping. The analysis was conducted on bibliographic records of 823 papers on women and educational leadership published from 1975 to 2020, which had been retrieved from the Web of Science. The results are presented in the form of lists of most impactful papers; most productive research centres/organizations and countries; similar lists of contributing disciplines and publication venues; as well as maps visualizing collaborative activity. A postcolonial feminist perspective used in interpretation of the results reveals that, on the one hand, the approach makes it possible to uncover the persistent coloniality and linguistic hegemony in the field, whereas, on the other hand, bibliometric metrification may contribute to Western epistemic violence and valorisation of scholarship in masculinist terms.
The Role of Media During COVID-19 Global Outbreak: A Conservation Perspective
Authors: Tarakini Gugulethu , Mwedzi Tongayi , Manyuchi Tatenda , Tarakini Tawanda
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is fast driving the ways of life and economies. In this study, we used Zimbabwe as a case study to assess how different forms of media are being utilised to access information of the COVID-19 disease (across age, educational level, and employment status). We investigated people’s perceptions of the origins of COVID-19, its implication on the continued consumption of meat from wildlife species by humans, and management strategies of wildlife species that harbour the coronavirus. We gathered 139 responses using an online structured questionnaire survey. Social media platforms were used to acquire information on the COVID-19 pandemic when compared to traditional sources (television, radio, and newspapers). Most respondents thought that the COVID-19 virus was created by humans (n = 55, mostly the young and middle-aged) while others believed that it originated from animals (n = 54, mostly middle-aged with postgraduate qualifications). The majority (73%) of respondents who cited COVID-19 origin as animals also supported a ban on consumption of meat from the species. The middle-aged respondents (in comparison to the young and older respondents) and those who were employed (compared to the unemployed) were more likely to support the ban in wildlife trade. The likelihood of visiting wildlife centres given the consequences of COVID-19 was significantly lower in the old-aged respondents when compared to the young and the middle-aged respondents. Our results emphasize the need for science to penetrate social media circles to provide appropriate information. The observed perceptions about visiting wildlife centres could negatively impact conservation funding.
The management of menopausal symptoms in women following treatment for cancer at a specialist menopause service
Authors: Chakrabarti R , Holloway D , Bruce D , Rymer J
Published: April 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify prescribing patterns at a specialist menopause service in a central London teaching hospital for women following treatment for a malignancy.

Study design

This was a prospective cohort study with data collected over a seven-month period from December 2019 to June 2020. All women reviewed at the specialist menopause services following treatment of a malignancy, BRCA carriers and Lynch syndrome were included in the study, with management options divided into three categories: hormonal, non-hormonal and no treatment.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome of this study was to identify prescribing patterns for all women reviewed following a diagnosis of a malignancy, as well as those with genetic mutations necessitating risk-reducing prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy (BSO).

Results

Altogether 71 women were included in this study, with the majority of women post management of a non-gynaecological malignancy (51/71, 72%), of which breast cancer was the most common (37/71, 52%). While non-hormonal treatment was the most popular among those treated for breast cancer, for all other malignancies, hormonal treatment was more widespread. Fourteen women also had genetic mutations, with all of these women commencing hormonal treatment post risk reducing surgery.

Conclusion

With the exception of those with a history of hormone-sensitive breast cancer, the use of hormonal treatment for menopausal symptoms remained widespread. While this was a relatively small study, the need for long-term follow-up across specialist menopause services, to assess the risk of recurrence is vital.
The value of mass-digitised cultural heritage content in creative contexts
Authors: Terras Melissa , Coleman Stephen , Drost Steven , Elsden Chris , Helgason Ingi , Lechelt Susan , Osborne Nicola , Panneels Inge , Pegado Briana , Schafer Burkhard , Smyth Michael , Thornton Pip , Speed Chris
Published: April 2021

How can digitised assets of Galleries, Libraries, Archives and Museums be reused to unlock new value? What are the implications of viewing large-scale cultural heritage data as an economic resource, to build new products and services upon? Drawing upon valuation studies, we reflect on both the theory and practicalities of using mass-digitised heritage content as an economic driver, stressing the need to consider the complexity of commercial-based outcomes within the context of cultural and creative industries. However, we also problematise the act of considering such heritage content as a resource to be exploited for economic growth, in order to inform how we consider, develop, deliver and value mass-digitisation. Our research will be of interest to those wishing to understand a rapidly changing research and innovation landscape, those considering how to engage memory institutions in data-driven activities and those critically evaluating years of mass-digitisation across the heritage sector.
The data archive as factory: Alienation and resistance of data processors
Authors: Plantin Jean-Christophe
Published: April 2021

Archival data processing consists of cleaning and formatting data between the moment a dataset is deposited and its publication on the archive’s website. In this article, I approach data processing by combining scholarship on invisible labor in knowledge infrastructures with a Marxian framework and show the relevance of considering data processing as factory labor. Using this perspective to analyze ethnographic data collected during a six-month participatory observation at a U.S. data archive, I generate a taxonomy of the forms of alienation that data processing generates, but also the types of resistance that processors develop, across four categories: routine, speed, skill, and meaning. This synthetic approach demonstrates, first, that data processing reproduces typical forms of factory worker’s alienation: processors are asked to work along a strict standardized pipeline, at a fast pace, without acquiring substantive skills or having a meaningful involvement in their work. It reveals, second, how data processors resist the alienating nature of this workflow by developing multiple tactics along the same four categories. Seen through this dual lens, data processors are therefore not only invisible workers, but also factory workers who follow and subvert a workflow organized as an assembly line. I conclude by proposing a four-step framework to better value the social contribution of data workers beyond the archive.
The effect of exposure to digital appeals to participate in collective action posted by influentials on protest information sharing: Evidence from Japan and South Korea
Authors: Jenkins Matthew D
Published: April 2021

Contemporary collective action theories put large horizontal digitally connected networks at the center of mass political action. They posit that information sharing among ordinary social media users makes possible new forms of rapid mass political action. However, recent research has shown that influential individuals can play a number of key roles in facilitating networked political action in seemingly leaderless movements. Still, the role of influential individuals in stimulating protest information sharing on social media is an important aspect of networked collective action that remains understudied. This study seeks to address this. Specifically, it investigates the following question: does exposure to appeals to engage in protest increase individuals’ motivation to share protest information? Drawing on evidence from an original survey experiment, this study shows that digital appeals to engage in collective action posted by influential individuals do elicit an increase in motivation to share the appeal. However, this result obtains only for Korean respondents, whereas influential appeals appear to have no effect on Japanese respondents. I argue that this difference is in part a function of different citizenship norms in the two countries, and the corresponding effects on social network dynamics. Preliminary analysis supports this interpretation, but further investigation is warranted.
Prenatal findings and postnatal follow-up of a midline dural sinus malformation
Authors: Shabana Hana , Leidinger Johannes , Wikström Johan , Axelsson Ove
Published: April 2021

Dural sinus malformation is a rare condition. We describe a prenatally detected case followed by repeated ultrasound scans and a prenatal magnetic resonance imaging examination. A substantial spontaneous regression was observed, which is associated with a favorable outcome. We believe that our observations, including a long postnatal follow-up, will add to the present knowledge of prenatally detected cases, and thus improve management of the pregnancies as well as our possibilities to counsel the parents-to-be.
The Benefits of Mindfulness for Promoting Resilience Among At-Risk Adolescents: Results From the Inner Strength Teen Program
Authors: Razza Rachel , Bergen-Cico Dessa , Reid Staceyann , Uveges Rachel Linsner
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

This study examined the effectiveness of a 12-week mindfulness curriculum for at-risk, urban adolescents. Of particular interest was whether participation in the intervention was associated with gains in self-regulation and self-compassion.

Design/Approach/Methods:

The analytic sample included 217 public high school students from thirteen 11th and 12th grade classrooms; 133 students received one dose of the program, 39 students received two doses, and 45 students served as a control group. The program was delivered by a trained mindfulness instructor who met with the classrooms once a week for 45 min. Adolescents completed self-report measures tapping self-regulation and self-compassion at pretest and posttest.

Findings:

Results indicated significant benefits of the intervention for adolescents’ self-compassion among both intervention groups. The effect was larger among students participating for the first time (one-dose group) than for those who were participating for a second time (two-dose group). There was also evidence that the program supported self-regulation, as students in both intervention dosage groups maintained their levels of long-term regulation relative to their peers in the control group who reported a decline over time.

Originality/Value:

While both self-regulation and self-compassion were supported as mechanisms of change associated with mindfulness-based intervention, the effects of dosage differed across the two constructs. The impacts of timing and dosage need to be examined in future research to better understand the sustainability of program effects for adolescents.
Patients’ Perception and Satisfaction on Neck and Shoulder Imbalance in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Lee Sin Ying , Ch’ng Pei Ying , Wong Tat Seng , Ling Xiu Wen , Chung Weng Hong , Chiu Chee Kidd , Chan Chris Yin Wei , Lean Mei Li , Kwan Mun Keong
Published: April 2021

Study Design:

Cross-sectional.

Objectives:

To evaluate the perception and satisfaction among adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients on Neck Tilt with Medial Shoulder Imbalance and Lateral Shoulder Imbalance.

Methods:

Lenke 1 and 2 AIS patients were stratified into 6 groups of preoperative/ postoperative Balanced (B), Lateral Shoulder Imbalance (LSI) (>2 cm), and Neck Tilt with Medial Shoulder Imbalance (NT) (Grade 3). Patients were interviewed using Modified Neck and Shoulder Appearance and SRS-22r questionnaires. T1 tilt, Cervical Axis (CA), Clavicle Angle (Cla-A) and Radiographic Shoulder Height (RSH) were measured.

Results:

A total of 120 Lenke 1 and 2 AIS patients were recruited. NT patients were aware and unhappy with their abnormal neck with medial shoulder appearances ( P < .001). Similarly, LSI patients were aware and unhappy with their abnormal lateral shoulder appearances ( P < .001). NT group had larger preoperative/ postoperative T1 tilt (9.2 ± 5.0°; 9.5 ± 5.3°) and CA (4.6 ± 3.1°; 7.0 ± 2.0°) ( P < .01). LSI group had larger preoperative/ postoperative Cla-A (4.8 ± 2.8°; 4.0 ± 1.3°) and RSH (20.1 ± 9.4 mm; 17.0 ± 6.6 mm) ( P < .001). Postoperative B group scored higher in overall SRS-22r scores, self-image and satisfaction domains (4.2 ± 0.3; 4.0 ± 0.5; 4.4 ± 0.5) while preoperative LSI scored the lowest comparatively (3.5 ± 0.4; 2.4 ± 0.5; 3.3 ± 0.5) ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

NT and LSI were major concerns among AIS patients. Both NT and LSI groups were unhappy with their appearances. NT group had larger T1 tilt/ CA whereas LSI group had larger Cla-A/ RSH. Postoperative B group scored higher in overall SRS-22r scores, self-image and satisfaction domains.
Defining Minimal Clinically Important Difference After Open Hip Abductor Repair
Authors: Uppstrom Tyler J. , Sullivan Spencer W. , Burger Joost A. , Ranawat Anil S. , Kelly Bryan T. , Nwachukwu Benedict U.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Open repair for gluteus medius and minimus tears is a common surgical treatment for patients with lateral hip pain associated with abductor tears; however, clinically meaningful outcomes have not been described after open surgical treatment.

Purpose:

To define the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in patients undergoing open gluteus medius or minimus repair, and to identify preoperative patient characteristics predictive of achieving MCID postoperatively.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data from a consecutive series of patients undergoing open abductor repair between July 2010 and April 2019 was conducted. Perioperative patient data collected included patient characteristics and preoperative and postoperative modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and International Hip Outcome Tool (iHOT-33) score. Paired t tests were utilized to compare preoperative and postoperative PROMs and MCID was calculated for both PROMs. Multivariate logistical regression analysis was used to assess the association between preoperative variables and the likelihood for achieving MCID.

Results:

A total of 47 patients were included in the study. The majority of patients were female (78.7%), with an average age of 63 ± 10.7 years. The average follow-up for both the mHHS and the iHOT-33 surveys was 37.8 ± 27.9 months (range, 10-102 months). Patients demonstrated statistically significant improvements on the mHHS and iHOT-33 postoperatively ( P < .001 for both). The MCIDs of mHHS and iHOT-33 were calculated to be 9.9 and 14.3, respectively. Overall, 82.9% of patients achieved MCID for mHHS and 84.1% of patients achieved MCID for iHOT-33 postoperatively. Multivariate logistical analysis demonstrated younger patients were less likely to achieve MCID for both outcome measures. Four patients (8.5%) suffered postoperative complications after open repair.

Conclusion:

This study defined MCID for mHHS and iHOT-33 for patients undergoing open repair of hip abductor tears, with a large percentage of patients (>80%) achieving meaningful outcomes for both outcome measures. There was a low complication rate. Younger patients were less likely to achieve MCID compared with older patients.
Communication Via Social Media: How Employees Will Paradoxically Support the Organization while Putting Less Effort at Work
Authors: Labban Alice , Bizzi Lorenzo
Published: April 2021

Research on the effects of social media use by employees on work behaviors is inconclusive and showed mixed findings. To bring clarity to the extant literature, instead of focusing on generic social media use, we focus on a specific social media behavior—communication via social media with coworkers and friends—and theorize that it simultaneously triggers positive and negative effects on work behaviors through the mediation of opposite emotions. More specifically, our empirical study shows that employee communication via social media leads simultaneously to positive behaviors, predicting organizational citizenship behaviors, and negative behaviors, predicting counterproductive work behaviors. Happiness mediates the relationship between communication with social media and organizational citizenship behavior. Fatigue mediates the relationship between communication with social media and counterproductive work behaviors. The negative effects are stronger for communication with friends while the positive effects are more pronounced for communication with colleagues. Results are particularly revealing. Paradoxically, communication via social media makes employees happy and tired at the same time, making them likely to support the organization and coworkers while simultaneously working in counterproductive manner.
Exploring an Unexamined Source of Racial Disparities in Juvenile Court Involvement: Unexcused Absenteeism Policies in U.S. Schools
Authors: McNeely Clea A. , Alemu Besufekad , Lee Won Fy , West Isis
Published: April 2021

This two-part study explored whether discrimination encoded into U.S. school absenteeism policies leads to racially minoritized students being overrepresented in the juvenile court system. First, we examined unexcused absenteeism policies in a nationally representative school district sample ( n = 97). All districts excused absences for reasons White students often miss school but not necessarily for reasons racially minoritized students do. Next, in three school districts we documented large racial disparities in both the proportion of absences designated unexcused (Whites 13%, Asians 18%, Hispanics 21%, Blacks 24%, and American Indians 24%) and risk of court petition for truancy, even after accounting for the total number of absences: Whites hazard ratio (HR) = 1.0; Asians HR = 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.98, 1.36]; Hispanics HR = 1.60, 95% CI [1.34, 1.92]; Blacks HR = 2.17, 95% CI [1.88, 2.50]; and American Indians HR = 3.94, 95% CI [3.12, 4.97]. Disproportionality in unexcused absenteeism fully explained the Hispanic/White and partially explained the Black/White and American Indian/White court petition disparities.
Molecular interactions of miR-338 during tumor progression and metastasis
Authors: Moghbeli Meysam
Published: April 2021

Background

Cancer, as one of the main causes of human deaths, is currently a significant global health challenge. Since the majority of cancer-related deaths are associated with late diagnosis, it is necessary to develop minimally invasive early detection markers to manage and reduce mortality rates. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as highly conserved non-coding RNAs, target the specific mRNAs which are involved in regulation of various fundamental cellular processes such as cell proliferation, death, and signaling pathways. MiRNAs can also be regulated by long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs). They are highly stable in body fluids and have tumor-specific expression profiles, which suggest their suitability as efficient non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tumor markers. Aberrant expression of miR-338 has been widely reported in different cancers. It regulates cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis in tumor cells.

Main body

In the present review, we have summarized all miR-338 interactions with other non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and associated signaling pathways to clarify the role of miR-338 during tumor progression.

Conclusions

It was concluded that miR-338 mainly functions as a tumor suppressor in different cancers. There were also significant associations between miR-338 and other ncRNAs in tumor cells. Moreover, miR-338 has a pivotal role during tumor progression using the regulation of WNT, MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. This review highlights miR-338 as a pivotal ncRNA in biology of tumor cells.
The Design of the AZO Conductive Layer on Microchannel Plate
Authors: Wang Yuman , Liu Shulin , Yan Baojun , Qi Ming , Wen Kaile , Zhang Binting , Gu Jianyu , Yao Wenjing
Published: April 2021

When the resistivity of the AZO conductive layer is within the MCP resistance requirement, the interval of the Zn content is very narrow (70–73%) and difficult to control. Aiming at the characteristics of the AZO conductive layer on the microchannel plate, an algorithm is designed to adjust the ratio of the conductive material ZnO and the high resistance material Al2O3. We put forward the concept of the working resistance of the MCP (i.e., the resistance during the electron avalanche in the microchannel). The working resistance of AZO-ALD-MCP (Al2O3/ZnO atomic layer deposition microchannel plate) was measured for the first time by the MCP resistance test system. In comparison with the conventional MCP, we found that the resistance of AZO-ALD-MCP in working state and non-working state is very different, and as the voltage increases, the working resistance significantly decreases. Therefore, we proposed a set of analytical methods for the conductive layer. We also proposed to adjust the ratio of the conductive material of the ALD-MCP conductive layer to the high-resistance material under the working resistance condition, and successfully prepared high-gain AZO-ALD-MCP. This design opens the way for finding better materials for the conductive layer of ALD-MCP to improve the performance of MCP.
Occurrence of carcinogenic illudane glycosides in drinking water wells
Authors: Skrbic Natasa , Kisielius Vaidotas , Pedersen Ann-Katrin , Christensen Sarah C. B. , Hedegaard Mathilde J. , Hansen Hans Christian Bruun , Rasmussen Lars Holm
Published: April 2021

Background

Ptaquiloside (PTA), caudatoside (CAU) and ptesculentoside (PTE) are carcinogenic illudane glycosides found in bracken ferns (Pteridium spp.) world-wide. The environmentally mobile PTA entails both acute and chronic toxicity. A comparable risk might be associated with the structurally similar CAU and PTE. It is of great health concern if these compounds are present in drinking water, however, it is currently unknown if these compounds can detected in wells in bracken-dominated regions. This study investigates the presence of PTA, CAU, PTE, and their corresponding hydrolysis products pterosins B (PtB), A (PtA) and G (PtG) in water wells in Denmark, Sweden and Spain. Water samples from a total of 77 deep groundwater wells (40–100 m) and shallow water wells (8–40 m) were collected and preserved in the field, pre-concentrated in the laboratory and analysed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS).

Results

Deep groundwater wells contained neither illudane glycosides nor their pterosins. However, seven private shallow wells contained at least one of the illudane glycosides and/or pterosins at concentrations up to 0.27 µg L−1 (PTA), 0.75 µg L−1 (CAU), 0.05 µg L−1 (PtB), 0.03 µg L−1 (PtA) and 0.28 µg L−1 (PtG). This is the first finding of illudane glycosides and pterosins in drinking water wells.

Conclusions

Detected concentrations of illudane glycosides in some of investigated wells exceeded the suggested maximum tolerable concentrations of PTA, although they were used for drinking water purpose. Contaminated wells were shallow with neutral pH and lower electric conductivity compared to deep groundwater wells with no illudane glycosides nor pterosins.
Comparative genome analyses of four rice-infecting Rhizoctonia solani isolates reveal extensive enrichment of homogalacturonan modification genes
Authors: Lee Da-Young , Jeon Jongbum , Kim Ki-Tae , Cheong Kyeongchae , Song Hyeunjeong , Choi Gobong , Ko Jaeho , Opiyo Stephen O. , Correll James C. , Zuo Shimin , Madhav Sheshu , Wang Guo-Liang , Lee Yong-Hwan
Published: April 2021

Background

Plant pathogenic isolates of Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 1-intraspecific group IA (AG1-IA) infect a wide range of crops causing diseases such as rice sheath blight (ShB). ShB has become a serious disease in rice production worldwide. Additional genome sequences of the rice-infecting R. solani isolates from different geographical regions will facilitate the identification of important pathogenicity-related genes in the fungus.

Results

Rice-infecting R. solani isolates B2 (USA), ADB (India), WGL (India), and YN-7 (China) were selected for whole-genome sequencing. Single-Molecule Real-Time (SMRT) and Illumina sequencing were used for de novo sequencing of the B2 genome. The genomes of the other three isolates were then sequenced with Illumina technology and assembled using the B2 genome as a reference. The four genomes ranged from 38.9 to 45.0 Mbp in size, contained 9715 to 11,505 protein-coding genes, and shared 5812 conserved orthogroups. The proportion of transposable elements (TEs) and average length of TE sequences in the B2 genome was nearly 3 times and 2 times greater, respectively, than those of ADB, WGL and YN-7. Although 818 to 888 putative secreted proteins were identified in the four isolates, only 30% of them were predicted to be small secreted proteins, which is a smaller proportion than what is usually found in the genomes of cereal necrotrophic fungi. Despite a lack of putative secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene clusters, the rice-infecting R. solani genomes were predicted to contain the most carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) genes among all 27 fungal genomes used in the comparative analysis. Specifically, extensive enrichment of pectin/homogalacturonan modification genes were found in all four rice-infecting R. solani genomes.

Conclusion

Four R. solani genomes were sequenced, annotated, and compared to other fungal genomes to identify distinctive genomic features that may contribute to the pathogenicity of rice-infecting R. solani. Our analyses provided evidence that genomic conservation of R. solani genomes among neighboring AGs was more diversified than among AG1-IA isolates and the presence of numerous predicted pectin modification genes in the rice-infecting R. solani genomes that may contribute to the wide host range and virulence of this necrotrophic fungal pathogen.
The draft genome of the specialist flea beetle Altica viridicyanea (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Xue Huai-Jun , Niu Yi-Wei , Segraves Kari A. , Nie Rui-E , Hao Ya-Jing , Zhang Li-Li , Cheng Xin-Chao , Zhang Xue-Wen , Li Wen-Zhu , Chen Run-Sheng , Yang Xing-Ke
Published: April 2021

Background

Altica(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a highly diverse and taxonomically challenging flea beetle genus that has been used to address questions related to host plant specialization, reproductive isolation, and ecological speciation. To further evolutionary studies in this interesting group, here we present a draft genome of a representative specialist,Altica viridicyanea, the first Alticinae genome reported thus far.

Results

The genome is 864.8 Mb and consists of 4490 scaffolds with a N50 size of 557 kb, which covered 98.6% complete and 0.4% partial insect Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs. Repetitive sequences accounted for 62.9% of the assembly, and a total of 17,730 protein-coding gene models and 2462 non-coding RNA models were predicted. To provide insight into host plant specialization of this monophagous species, we examined the key gene families involved in chemosensation, detoxification of plant secondary chemistry, and plant cell wall-degradation.

Conclusions

The genome assembled in this work provides an important resource for further studies on host plant adaptation and functionally affiliated genes. Moreover, this work also opens the way for comparative genomics studies among closely relatedAlticaspecies, which may provide insight into the molecular evolutionary processes that occur during ecological speciation.
Absent or impaired rectoanal inhibitory reflex as a diagnostic factor for high-grade (grade III–V) rectal prolapse: a retrospective study
Authors: Park Byung-Soo , Cho Sung Hwan , Son Gyung Mo , Kim Hyun Sung , Cho Yong-Hoon , Ryu Dae Gon , Kim Su Jin , Park Su Bum , Choi Cheol Woong , Kim Hyung Wook , Kim Tae Un , Suh Dong Soo , Yoon Myunghee , Jo Hong Jae
Published: April 2021

Background

Clinically diagnosing high-grade (III–V) rectal prolapse might be difficult, and the prolapse can often be overlooked. Even though defecography is the significant diagnostic tool for rectal prolapse, it is noticed that rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) can be associated with rectal prolapse. This study investigated whether RAIR can be used as a diagnostic factor for rectal prolapse.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we evaluated 107 patients who underwent both anorectal manometry and defecography between July 2012 and December 2019. Rectal prolapse was classified in accordance with the Oxford Rectal Prolapse Grading System. Patients in the high-grade (III–V) rectal prolapse (high-grade group, n = 30), and patients with no rectal prolapse or low-grade (I, II) rectal prolapse (low-grade group, n = 77) were analyzed. Clinical variables, including symptoms such as fecal incontinence, feeling of prolapse, and history were collected. Symptoms were assessed using yes/no surveys answered by the patients. The manometric results were also evaluated.

Results

Frequencies of fecal incontinence (p = 0.002) and feeling of prolapse (p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the high-grade group. The maximum resting (77.5 vs. 96 mmHg, p = 0.011) and squeezing (128.7 vs. 165 mmHg, p = 0.010) anal pressures were significantly lower in the high-grade group. The frequency of absent or impaired RAIR was significantly higher in the high-grade group (19 cases, 63% vs. 20 cases, 26%, p < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis, the feeling of prolapse (odds ratio [OR], 23.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.43–128.78; p < 0.001) and absent or impaired RAIR (OR, 5.36; 95% CI, 1.91–15.04, p = 0.001) were independent factors of high-grade (III–V) rectal prolapse. In addition, the percentage of the absent or impaired RAIR significantly increased with grading increase of rectal prolapse (p < 0.001). The sensitivity of absent or impaired RAIR as a predictor of high-grade prolapse was 63.3% and specificity 74.0%.

Conclusions

Absent or impaired RAIR was a meaningful diagnostic factor of high-grade (III–V) rectal prolapse. Furthermore, the absent or impaired reflex had a positive linear trend according to the increase of rectal prolapse grading.
Effect of antiplatelet persistence on long-term mortality and predictors of non-persistence in ischemic stroke patients 75 years and older: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Kim Seung Jae , Kwon Oh Deog , Choi Ho Chun , Lee Eung-Joon , Cho BeLong
Published: April 2021

Background

We aimed to provide real-world evidence on the benefit of persistence with antiplatelet therapy (APT) on long-term all-cause mortality (ACM) in ischemic stroke patients aged 75 years and older.

Methods

Newly diagnosed ischemic stroke patients aged 75 years and older who initiated aspirin or clopidogrel for the first time were chosen from 2003 to 2010 National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort (NHIS-NSC) of Korea (n = 887), a random cohort sample accounting for 2.2% (n = 1,017,468) of total population (n = 46,605,433). Then subjects were divided into persistent (n = 556) and non-persistent (n = 321) groups according to the persistent status at 6 months. Survivor analysis was performed between the two groups and predictors of non-persistence were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients were followed up until death or December 31, 2013.

Results

Non-persistence with APT was significantly associated with increased risk of ACM (adjusted hazard ration [aHR] 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.72–2.65), cerebro-cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality (aHR 2.26, 95% CI 1.57–3.24), and non-CVD mortality (aHR 2.06, 95% CI 1.5702.70). More comorbidities (Charlson comorbidity index score ≥ 6) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.56, 95% CI 1.43–4.55), older age (aOR 1.52, 95% CI 1.11–2.09 for 80–84 years, aOR 1.73, 95% CI 1.17–2.57 for ≥85 years), and less than 4 total prescribed drugs (aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.08–2.21) were independent predictors of non-persistence.

Conclusions

Persistent with APT after ischemic stroke featured long-term mortality benefit even in patients aged 75 years and older. Thus, improving APT persistence for ischemic stroke patients in this age group is also recommended by understanding factors associated with non-persistence.