bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Professional boundaries in action: Using reflective spaces for boundary work to incorporate a new healthcare role
Authors: Lunkka Nina , Jansson Noora , Mainela Tuija , Suhonen Marjo , Meriläinen Merja , Puhakka Vesa , Wiik Heikki
Published: March 2021

Prior research on professional boundary work emphasises the importance of subtle interactions among affected individuals when a new role is inserted into an established professional setting, which inevitably changes the prevalent division of labour. Thus, managers may set reflective spaces for professionals to collaboratively arrange their boundaries and make room for the new professional. This ethnomethodologically oriented study examines boundary arrangements in work development meetings in a university hospital, while professionals made room for a new role, a hospitalist. Examining professionals’ naturally occurring interactions in reflective spaces, the findings depict seven categorisations for the hospitalist. Elaborating on the dynamics of these categorisations, we propose that technically based categorisations sustain stability, and context-bound categorisations allow change in work practices, whereas their combination enables transformation within the institutional context. Accordingly, the study adds to the literature on the transformative potential of reflective spaces by illuminating the intertwining of engaged professionals’ boundary talk in interaction with the consequences of configurational boundary work in relation to a new professional role.
Planning for future care provision for children living with disabilities: A cross-cultural consideration
Authors: Choi Clara
Published: March 2021

Cultural context has a significant influence on family support and parenting for children living with disabilities and has been powerful in shaping treatment and service provision. For parents, a pervasive concern lies with planning for future care provision for their child, and here culture plays a role. This qualitative research explores how cultural context shapes the future care provision plans for Korean parents by examining similarities and differences of future care provision-planning between Korean migrant families in New Zealand and those living in Korea. Specifically, the article examines the influence of familism on planning for future care among Koreans.
Mapping Black mixed-race Birmingham: Place, locality and identity
Authors: Campion Karis
Published: March 2021

Utilizing narrations of urban space derived from interviews with 37 Mixed White and Black Caribbean people in the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham, this article argues that place should be central to the theorization of mixed-race. Whilst Critical Mixed-Race Studies tends to privilege racial identity as the defining feature of the mixed-race experience, this article argues that mixed-race subjects identify with and through their respective localities to cultivate and perform their racialized identities. Drawing on personalized mental maps and routes through the city, the discussion sheds light on how conceptualizations of neighbourhood and territory are entangled with expressions of racial identity and belonging. By showing how the local histories, identities and characters of places come to be written on the bodies of mixed-race subjects, I demonstrate the power that place has in organizing social life and shaping identities. In doing so the article warns against the critical absence of place, and particularly the local, in empirical analyses of mixed-race identity. It suggests that for the development of de-essentialist understandings of mixedness which exist outside the realm of personal identifications, it is necessary to engage critically with place as an analytical framework.
Risk factors of acute renal injury and in-hospital mortality in adult patients with postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock requiring veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: utility of MELD-XI score
Authors: Ding Xiaochen , Xie Haixiu , Yang Feng , Wang Liangshan , Hou Xiaotong
Published: March 2021

Background:

The suitability of model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score to predict the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and in-hospital mortality in adult patients with postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCS) requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) remains uncertain. This study was performed to explore whether the MELD-XI score has the association with the incidence of AKI and in-hospital mortality in these patients.

Methods:

Adult patients with PCS requiring VA ECMO from January 2012 to December 2017 were enrolled and first classified into AKI group ( n = 151) versus no-AKI group ( n = 132), then classified into survival group ( n = 143) versus no-survival group ( n = 140). Multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors independently associated with AKI and mortality. Baseline data were defined as the first measurement available.

Results:

Of 283 patients, the incidence of AKI was 53.36%. The in-hospital mortality rates were 63.58% and 33.33% in patients with and without AKI (p < 0.0001). Baseline MELD-XI score, baseline serum total bilirubin (T-Bil), baseline blood urea nitrogen (BUN), baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, and lactate level at ECMO initiation were shown to be associated with the AKI. Vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and SOFA score at ECMO initiation as well as renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) were shown to be associated with in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions:

The baseline MELD-XI score, baseline BUN, baseline T-Bil, baseline LVEF, SOFA score and lactate at the initiation of ECMO were associated with AKI. AKI, SOFA score, and VIS at the initiation of ECMO were associated with in-hospital mortality, whereas MELD-XI score was not found to be associated with in-hospital mortality. A specific MELD-XI score as a threshold, as well as its sensitivity and specificity, needs to be confirmed in further studies.
A qualitative study of bereaved relatives’ end of life experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hanna Jeffrey R , Rapa Elizabeth , Dalton Louise J , Hughes Rosemary , McGlinchey Tamsin , Bennett Kate M , Donnellan Warren J , Mason Stephen R , Mayland Catriona R
Published: March 2021

Background:

Meeting the needs of relatives when a family member is dying can help facilitate better psychological adjustment in their grief. However, end of life experiences for families are likely to have been deleteriously impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. Understanding how families’ needs can be met during a global pandemic will have current/future relevance for clinical practice and policy.

Aim:

To explore relatives’ experiences and needs when a family member was dying during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design:

Interpretative qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed thematically.

Setting/participants:

A total of 19 relatives whose family member died during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom.

Results:

In the absence of direct physical contact, it was important for families to have a clear understanding of their family member’s condition and declining health, stay connected with them in the final weeks/days of life and have the opportunity for a final contact before they died. Health and social care professionals were instrumental to providing these aspects of care, but faced practical challenges in achieving these. Results are presented within three themes: (1) entering into the final weeks and days of life during a pandemic, (2) navigating the final weeks of life during a pandemic and (3) the importance of ‘saying goodbye’ in a pandemic.

Conclusions:

Health and social care professionals can have an important role in mitigating the absence of relatives’ visits at end of life during a pandemic. Strategies include prioritising virtual connectedness and creating alternative opportunities for relatives to ‘say goodbye’.
The experience of delirium in palliative care settings for patients, family, clinicians and volunteers: A qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Featherstone Imogen , Hosie Annmarie , Siddiqi Najma , Grassau Pamela , Bush Shirley H , Taylor Johanna , Sheldon Trevor , Johnson Miriam J
Published: March 2021

Background:

Delirium is common in palliative care settings and is distressing for patients, their families and clinicians. To develop effective interventions, we need first to understand current delirium care in this setting.

Aim:

To understand patient, family, clinicians’ and volunteers’ experience of delirium and its care in palliative care contexts.

Design:

Qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis (PROSPERO 2018 CRD42018102417).

Data sources:

The following databases were searched: CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Embase, MEDLINE and PsycINFO (2000–2020) for qualitative studies exploring experiences of delirium or its care in specialist palliative care services. Study selection and quality appraisal were independently conducted by two reviewers.

Results:

A total of 21 papers describing 16 studies were included. In quality appraisal, trustworthiness (rigour of methods used) was assessed as high ( n = 5), medium ( n = 8) or low ( n = 3). Three major themes were identified: interpretations of delirium and their influence on care; clinicians’ responses to the suffering of patients with delirium and the roles of the family in delirium care. Nursing staff and other clinicians had limited understanding of delirium as a medical condition with potentially modifiable causes. Practice focused on alleviating patient suffering through person-centred approaches, which could be challenging with delirious patients, and medication use. Treatment decisions were also influenced by the distress of family and clinicians and resource limitations. Family played vital roles in delirium care.

Conclusions:

Increased understanding of non-pharmacological approaches to delirium prevention and management, as well as support for clinicians and families, are important to enable patients’ multi-dimensional needs to be met.
Metastasis of primary breast angiosarcoma to axillary and supraclavicular lymph nodes: a rare case diagnosed using imaging data
Authors: Qin Xiaojuan , Wu Yu , Yu Lan , Lv Qing , Xie Mingxing
Published: March 2021

Primary breast angiosarcoma (PBA) is a rare malignant tumor. PBA usually undergoes hematogenous metastasis; lymph node metastasis is very rare in such patients, and metastasis of PBA to the supraclavicular lymph nodes has not previously been reported. Here, we describe a rare case of PBA manifested by a diffuse enlargement of the left breast, with metastasis to the left axillary and bilateral supraclavicular lymph nodes. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound and positron emission tomography findings indicated a malignant lesion, whereas magnetic resonance imaging suggested a benign lesion. Core needle biopsy identified the lesion as a lymphangioma, and the histological characteristics suggested a high-grade angiosarcoma. Multimodal imaging and perfusion patterns obtained using various contrast agents can thus help to diagnose PBA.
Comparing soleus injections and gastrocnemius injections of botulinum toxin for treating adult spastic foot drop: a monocentric observational study
Authors: Hefter Harald , Nickels Werner , Samadzadeh Sara , Rosenthal Dietmar
Published: March 2021

Objective

Outcome differences between selective abobotulinumtoxin type A (aboBoNT/A) injections into the soleus (SOL) and gastrocnemius (GAS) muscles were investigated in post-stroke patients with spastic foot drop.

Methods

A monocentric observational study was conducted at a university hospital botulinum toxin clinic including 24 free-walking adult, botulinum toxin-naive patients with post-stroke hemiplegia. AboBoNT/A (800 MU in 4 mL saline) was injected into the SOL or GAS muscle under electromyographic guidance. After 30 days post-injection, the effect of aboBoNT/A injection was assessed by patients. The treating physician scored spasticity and measured angles at the knee and ankle joint and gait speed.

Results

After 30 days, significant improvements of subjective and objective outcome measures were observed. No significant difference was observed in the modified Ashworth scale, gait speed, ankle and knee angles, or their angle combinations between the SOL and GAS groups. Tendencies toward greater active range of motion (RoM) improvement in the SOL group and passive RoM improvement in the GAS group were observed. The difference between active and passive ankle extensions plus knee flexions was significantly larger in the SOL group.

Conclusions

Selective 800 MU aboBoNT/A injections into the SOL or GAS muscle were effective but without relevant clinical difference.
Association of the Quality Rating and Improvement System, Texas Rising Star, on Physical Activity and Screen Time Policies and Practices in Texas Child Care Centers
Authors: Dooley Erin E. , Browning Cari , Thi Christina A. , Hoelscher Deanna M. , Byrd-Williams Courtney E.
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

Quality rating and improvement systems (QRIS) are systems approaches to assist states in providing high quality early childhood education. Texas Rising Star (TRS), a voluntary QRIS, exceeds state licensing standards and meets some obesity prevention guidelines. This study examines differences in physical activity, screen time, and outdoor policies and practices by QRIS certification.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Online.

Sample:

After exclusion criteria, respondents were 431 Texas childcare centers.

Measures:

2016 survey of policies and Go NAPSACC best practices.

Analysis:

Chi-square and t-tests indicated differences in 1) practices and 2) policies by QRIS status.

Results:

TRS-certified centers reported more policies for physical activity ( M = 4.57 ± 3.07 vs. 3.61 ± 2.95, p = 0.009) and screen time ( M = 1.91 ± 1.84 vs. 1.28 ± 1.56, p < 0.001) than non-certified centers. TRS-certified centers reported significantly higher frequencies for 7 of 14 physical activity practices, however no significant differences for screen time practices were found. Additionally, TRS-certified centers reported more outdoor practices, including more classrooms/storage ( p < 0.001) and vegetable gardens ( p = 0.025).

Conclusion:

TRS-certified centers reported more physical activity policies and practices, more screen time policies, and more outdoor practices. TRS certification was not associated with screen time practices. QRIS can be a practical way to insert obesity prevention in early care and education. Using items from a widely used survey enables comparisons, however future research is needed in larger-scale studies. Some COVID-19 implications are discussed.
Perceived Beliefs, Uncertainty, and Behavioral Responses During the COVID-19 Outbreak in China: Findings From a Convenience Sample
Authors: Wu Dan , Rockett Ian R. H. , Yang Tingzhong , Yang Xiaozhao Yousef , Wang Mengmeng , Jiao Can
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

To investigate perceived beliefs, uncertainty, and behavioral responses among Chinese residents toward the COVID-19 outbreak, and explore their relationships amid an incipient pandemic.

Design:

A cross-sectional correlational survey with a combination of a convenience and snowball sampling design.

Setting:

This study was conducted online from February 7 to 14, 2020, the third week after the lockdown of Wuhan city on January 23.

Participants:

A total of 2,654 residents was contacted, 2,534 agreed to participate, and 2,215 completed valid questionnaires. The sample covered 30 provinces, municipalities, autonomous regions of China, and a broader region.

Measures:

The Uncertainty About COVID-19 Scale was applied to assess perceived public uncertainty. Five dimensions of health beliefs about COVID-19 and 12 health-related response behaviors were measured.

Analysis:

Univariate analysis and multiple linear regression models were used to identify associations. Mediation was assessed by a bootstrapping technique.

Results:

Five constructs of health beliefs were found to be significant predictors of multiple response behaviors. Uncertainty about COVID-19 has a direct relationship with general response behaviors (β=-0.119**) and sanitization practices (β=-0.068**). Emergency coping behaviors aside, uncertainty also partially mediated associations between perceived susceptibility, perceived effectiveness, and perceived barriers influencing general response behaviors and sanitization practices, respectively.

Conclusion:

Findings provide evidence-based information to government and policymakers for designing effective health communication messages and intervention strategies by targeting the key constructs of the health belief model and reducing perceived uncertainty about COVID-19. They support public health-related response behaviors to prevent COVID-19 spread among the population.
Experimental characterization of the moment-angle curve during level and slope locomotion of transtibial amputee: Which parameters can be extracted to quantify the adaptations of microprocessor prosthetic ankle?
Authors: Davot Julie , Thomas-Pohl Marie , Villa Coralie , Bonnet Xavier , Lapeyre Eric , Bascou Jospeh , Pillet Hélène
Published: March 2021

In case of transtibial amputation, the deficit resulting from the loss of the lower limb can be partly compensated with a prosthetic foot and adapted rehabilitation. New prosthetic feet have been developed for transtibial amputees to mimic ankle adaptability to varying terrain. Among them, Microprocessor Prosthetic Ankles (MPA) have a microprocessor to control an electric or a hydraulic actuator to adapt ankle kinematics in stairs and slopes. The objective is to investigate parameters extracted from the moment-angle curve (MAC) and use them to compare 3 MPA during level and slope locomotion against energy storing and return (ESR) foot. Five persons with lower limb transtibial amputation successively fitted with 3 MPA (Propriofoot™, Elan™, Meridium™) compared to their ESR foot. The participants had 2 weeks of adaptation before data acquisition and then a 3 week wash-out period. Range of motion, equilibrium point, hysteresis, late stance energy released, and quasi-stiffness were computed on level ground and 12% slope (upward and downward) thanks to the MAC at the ankle. The study shows the relevance of MAC parameters to evaluate the behavior of MPA. In particular, compared to ESR, all MPA tested in the present study demonstrated a better angle adaptation between walking conditions but a decrease of available energy for the propulsion. Among MPA, main results were: (i) for the Propriofoot™: an adaptation of the ankle angle without modification of the pattern of the MAC (ii) for the Elan™: a limited adaptation of the range of motion but a modification of the energy released (iii) for the Meridium™, the highest adaptation of the range of motion but the lowest available energy of propulsion. One of the main findings of the research is to show and quantify the relationship between range of motion and energy available when using different prosthetic feet in different walking conditions.
Acute pericardial tamponade: The initial manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus with Graves’ hyperthyroidism
Authors: Yu Muming , Gao Yulei , Jin Heng , Shou Songtao
Published: March 2021

Acute pericardial tamponade, which can cause obstructive shock, is a serious life-threatening medical emergency that can be readily reversed by timely identification and appropriate intervention. Acute pericardial tamponade can occur for a number of reasons, including idiopathic, malignancy, uremia, iatrogenic, post-myocardial infarction, infection, collagen vascular, hypothyroidism, and others. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and hyperthyroidism associated with pericardial tamponade are rarely reported. Here, we report the case of a 20-year-old female patient was final diagnosed of SLE with Graves’ hyperthyroidism.
An Instrument to Assess Self-Perceived Competencies in End-of-Life Care for Health Care Professionals: The End-of-Life Care Questionnaire
Authors: Montagnini Marcos , Smith Heather M. , Price Deborah M. , Strodtman Linda , Ghosh Bidisha
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

We describe the development and the psychometric properties of an instrument to assess self-perceived EOL care competencies for healthcare professionals: The End-of-Life Care Questionnaire (EOL-Q).

Methods:

The EOL-Q consists of 28 questions assessing knowledge, attitudes and behaviors with subscale items addressing seven domains of care: decision-making, communication, continuity of care, emotional support for patients/families, symptom management, spiritual support for patients/families, and support for clinicians. The EOL-Q was used to assess competencies of 1,197 healthcare professionals from multiple work units at a large medical center. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were calculated for the survey and subscales. A factor analysis was also conducted.

Results:

Internal consistency reliability was for was high for the total scale (0.93) and for the subscales addressing knowledge, behaviors, decision-making, communication, emotional support and symptom management (0.84-0.92); and moderate (>0.68) for the attitudes and continuity of care subscales. The factor analysis demonstrated robust consolidation of the communication and continuity of care subscales (eigenvalue 9.47), decision-making subscale (eigenvalue 3.38), symptom management subscale (eigenvalue 1.51), and emotional and spiritual support subscales (eigenvalue 1.13).

Conclusion:

Analysis of the psychometric properties of the EOL-Q care across settings supports its reliability and validity as a measure of self-perceived EOL care competencies in the domains of communication and continuity of care, decision-making, symptom management, and emotional and spiritual support. The EOL-Q displays promise as a tool for use in a variety of educational, research, and program development initiatives in EOL care.
Effect of zirconium silicate and mullite with three different particle sizes on tribo performance in a non-asbestos brake pad
Authors: Baskara Sethupathi Paramathma , Chandradass Jeyaseelan
Published: March 2021

This work aims to examine the effect of two different abrasives: zirconium silicate and mullite with three different particle sizes (5, 44 and 149 µm) on the frictional characteristics of brake pads. Six brake pads were developed using these two abrasives with three different sizes. The effect of the abrasives towards fade, recovery and wear was investigated by carrying out a tribological test in a Chase tester following SAE J661 standards. Results indicated that brake pads with coarser particles generated good fade resistance and acceptable recovery rate. This effect was explained based on the formation of a stable friction film observed through the field emission scanning electron microscopy and testing the microhardness at the surface of the samples after dry sliding. However coarser particles exhibited poor wear resistance. In comparison, smaller abrasive particles exhibited poor friction stability with excellent wear resistance. Detailed examination of the wear surfaces was conducted to identify the possible wear mechanism.
Resistance to violence against women on Spanish walls
Authors: Tolonen Jonna
Published: March 2021

Drawing upon visual ethnographic research carried out in two Spanish cities between 2015 and 2018, this visual essay explores the ability of street art to speak about violence against women. Posters, wall writings and stencils represent both visual communication and political expression that can give an insight into this gender-based phenomenon. Street art pieces are linked to broader social contexts. The photographs and discourse analysis of the street art presented in this essay pay attention to the specific contexts of Spanish society and investigate the social spaces in which street art pieces are embedded. The author offers a critical perspective on assumptions regarding the gendered construction of public space and reflections on street-level visual resistance about violence against women in Madrid and Valencia.
Knockdown of lncRNA HOTTIP Inhibits Retinoblastoma Progression by Modulating the miR-101-3p/STC1 Axis
Authors: Yuan XiangWen , Sun Zhaoyan , Cui Congxian
Published: March 2021

Objective:

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a frequent eye cancer in children. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) HOXA transcript at the distal tip (HOTTIP) is aberrantly expressed in cancer tissues. This study explores the underlying mechanism of lncRNA HOTTIP in RB.

Methods:

HOTTIP expression in normal retinal cells and RB cell lines was detected using qRT-PCR. The proliferation of RB cells was measured using CCK-8 and EdU assays, and apoptosis was detected using flow cytometry and Western blotting after the transfection of si-HOTTIP into Y79 cells and pc-HOTTIP into HXO-RB-44 cells. The target relationships between HOTTIP and miR-101-3p, and miR-101-3p and STC1 were predicted by bioinformatics website and verified using dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The binding of HOTTIP and miR-101-3p was verified using RNA pull-down assay. STC1 mRNA and protein in RB cells were measured using qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Moreover, si-HOTTIP and in-miR-101-3p/in-NC, and si-HOTTIP and pc-STC1/pcDNA were co-transfected into Y79 cells respectively to evaluate cell proliferation and apoptosis. Xenograft study was conducted, and Ki67-positive expression was detected using immunohistochemical staining.

Results:

HOTTIP expression was promoted in RB tissues and cells. Downregulation of HOTTIP inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis of Y79 cells, while upregulation of HOTTIP promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of HXO-RB-44 cells. There were target relationships between HOTTIP and miR-101-3p, and miR-101-3p and STC1. Inhibition of miR-101-3p or overexpression of STC1 reversed the effect of si-HOTTIP on the proliferation and apoptosis of RB cells. Xenograft study showed that knockdown of HOTTIP suppressed the growth of RB in vitro.

Conclusion:

It could be concluded that HOTTIP sponged miR-101-3p to upregulate STC1 expression, thereby promoting RB cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis.
Effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression and Anxiety, Response Rates and Adverse Events in Patients with Locoregional Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Feng , Fu Sheng-nan , Chen Yan-zhu , Yan Ou-ying , Tong Fei , Peng Wang-lian , Zou Ran , Wen Min-ni , Jiang Ling , Ma Hong-zhi , He Qian , Liu Lin , Yang Hui , Huang Xu-fen , Han Ya-qian , Wang Hui , Liu Xiao-hong
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

This retrospective study investigated the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on depression, anxiety, response rates, and adverse events in patients with locoregional advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods:

A total of 269 patients with diagnosis of stage III-IVA NPC received either CBT plus chemoradiotherapy (CBT group, n = 136) or treatment as usual (TAU) plus chemoradiotherapy (TAU group, n = 133). Patients in the CBT group received a series of 6 CBT sessions for 6 weeks during concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Depression and anxiety were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) score at baseline, the completion of radiotherapy, and 6, 12, and 24 months after radiotherapy. Response rates and adverse events were also evaluated.

Results:

Patients in the CBT group showed significantly less depression and anxiety than patients in the TAU group after the completion of radiotherapy ( P < .05). Complete response rates were 99.3% (135/136) and 92.5% (123/133) in the CBT group and TAU group with a small effect size (Phi coefficient = .171), respectively ( P = .005). Compared with the TAU group, the CBT group showed a significantly lower incidence of acute adverse events and late toxic effects.

Conclusions:

The addition of CBT to chemoradiotherapy significantly reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms. CBT combined with chemoradiotherapy is associated with improved response rates, with reduced incidence of toxic effects in patients with locoregional advanced NPC. Based on this study, we registered a randomized controlled clinical trials to better define the role of CBT in patients with locoregional advanced NPC (Registration number: ChiCTR2000034701).
Assessment of Gait Speed and Timed Up and Go Measures as Predictors of Falls in Older Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Blackwood Jennifer , Rybicki Kateri
Published: March 2021

Background:

Older breast cancer survivors are at an increased risk of loss of postural balance and accidental falls, however, the ability of clinical mobility measures to predict falls has not been determined. The purpose of this study was to examine the prognostic ability, sensitivity, and specificity to predict accidental falls in measures of gait speed and functional mobility in older breast cancer survivors.

Methods:

Thirty-four breast cancer survivors 65 years and older performed 3 measures of gait speed (GS) (usual, fast, dual-task) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) (TUG, TUG-Cognitive, TUG-Manual). Follow-up calls were made 3 months after testing to track falls.

Results:

The area under the curve (AUC) was below 0.5 for all GS measures, indicating poor predictive ability and all GS measures had low sensitivity and specificity to predict falls. All TUG measures had AUC values above 0.5. The cutoff score with the best sensitivity/specificity to predict falls was: TUG-Cognitive = 11.32 seconds, Sens = 0.64, Spec = 0.80; TUG-Manual = 9.84 seconds, Sens = 0.71, Spec = 0.65.

Conclusion:

When assessing fall risk in older breast cancer survivors, performance on the TUG and TUG-Cognitive are able to predict falls.
The Consequences of Incongruent Abusive Supervision: Anticipation of Social Exclusion, Shame, and Turnover Intentions
Authors: Korman Benjamin A. , Tröster Christian , Giessner Steffen R.
Published: March 2021

We investigated the turnover intentions of employees who perceive that they are being treated with more or less abusive supervision than their coworkers. We call this incongruent abusive supervision. Our findings support our theory that employees associate incongruent abusive supervision with the anticipation of social exclusion from their coworkers. Furthermore, this appraisal of social exclusion threat is associated with feelings of shame, which, in turn, increase turnover intentions. Two experimental vignettes provide support for our theoretical model. These findings demonstrate the effect that incongruent abusive supervision has on employees’ reactions to abusive supervision and introduces shame as an emotional mechanism important for understanding employee responses to supervisor abuse both when they are singled out for abuse and when they are spared abuse while their coworkers are not.
Anti-Oxidative and Immuno-Protective Effect of Camel Milk on Radiation-Induced Intestinal Injury in C57BL/6 J Mice
Authors: Chen Yu-Zhong , Li Chao , Gu Jia , Lv Si-chen , Song Jia-ying , Tang Zhi-bing , Duan Guang-Xin , Qin Li-Qiang , Zhao Lin , Xu Jia-Ying
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

The main objective is to investigate the protective effect of camel milk (CM) on radiation-induced intestinal injury.

Methods:

The C57BL/6 J mice in 2 experiments were assigned into control group (Con), irradiation group (IR), and CM+irradiation group (CM+IR). After receiving the CM via gavage for 14 days, the mice in the first experiment were exposed to 6 Gy X-ray whole body irradiation, and survival rate was compared among the groups. Mice in the second experiment were exposed to 4 Gy irradiation and sacrificed at day 7. The small intestines were collected to examine the histopathological changes and to determine the anti-oxidative index and HMGB1/TLR4 inflammatory pathway. Fasting blood was used to measure serum pro-inflammatory factors.

Results:

Compared with the IR group, the survival time was prolonged, and survival rate was increased in the CM+IR group. CM increased levels of SOD and GSH and decreased MDA in the jejunum. Furthermore, intestinal protein expression of HMGB1/TLR4 pathway (TLR4, NF-κB, and HMGB1) was up-regulated by CM intervention. CM decreased the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β and increased IL-10 level.

Conclusions:

CM extended the survival time and had a protective effect against radiation-induced jejunum injury by regulation of antioxidant capacity and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB/MyD88 inflammatory signaling pathway.
Design of optimal flow concentrator for vertical-axis wind turbines using computational fluid dynamics, artificial neural networks and genetic algorithm
Authors: Svorcan Jelena , Peković Ognjen , Simonović Aleksandar , Tanović Dragoljub , Hasan Mohammad Sakib
Published: March 2021

Wind energy extraction is one of the fastest developing engineering branches today. Number of installed wind turbines is constantly increasing. Appropriate solutions for urban environments are quiet, structurally simple and affordable small-scale vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs). Due to small efficiency, particularly in low and variable winds, main topic here is development of optimal flow concentrator that locally augments wind velocity, facilitates turbine start and increases generated power. Conceptual design was performed by combining finite volume method and artificial intelligence (AI). Smaller set of computational results (velocity profiles induced by existence of different concentrators in flow field) was used for creation, training and validation of several artificial neural networks. Multi-objective optimization of concentrator geometric parameters was realized through coupling of generated neural networks with genetic algorithm. Final solution from the acquired Pareto set is studied in more detail. Resulting computed velocity field is illustrated. Aerodynamic performances of small-scale VAWT with and without optimal flow concentrator are estimated and compared. The performed research demonstrates that, with use of flow concentrator, average increase in wind speed of 20%–25% can be expected. It also proves that contemporary AI techniques can significantly facilitate and accelerate design processes in the field of wind engineering.
Cellular and synaptic mechanisms for Parkinson’s disease-related chronic pain
Authors: Lu Jing-Shan , Chen Qi-Yu , Chen Xiang , Li Xu-Hui , Zhou Zhaoxiang , Liu Qin , Lin Yuwan , Zhou Miaomiao , Xu Ping-Yi , Zhuo Min
Published: March 2021

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease. Chronic pain is experienced by the vast majority of patients living with Parkinson’s disease. The degeneration of dopaminergic neuron acts as the essential mechanism of Parkinson’s disease in the midbrain dopaminergic pathway. The impairment of dopaminergic neurons leads to dysfunctions of the nociceptive system. Key cortical areas, such as the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and insular cortex (IC) that receive the dopaminergic projections are involved in pain transmission. Dopamine changes synaptic transmission via several pathway, for example the D2-adenly cyclase (AC)-cyclic AMP (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA) pathway and D1-G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2)-fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) pathway. The management of Parkinson’s disease-related pain implicates maintenance of stable level of dopaminergic drugs and analgesics, however a more selective drug targeting at key molecules in Parkinson’s disease-related pain remains to be investigated.
Synthesis, structural characterization, and carbon dioxide and hydrogen adsorption of a new three-dimensional metal organic framework Zn(BTC)4
Authors: Yan Jing , Gong Jiashun , Song Li
Published: March 2021

A novel three-dimensional porous metal organic framework Zn(BTC)4 (BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid) is synthesized by the solvothermal method. This structure is characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. This metal organic framework crystallizes in a monoclinic (P2(1)/n, V = 1795.7(2) Å3, Z = 4, Dc = 1.449 mg/cm3, α = 90.00°, β = 97.2200(10)°, γ = 90.00°, a = 9.5077(5) Å, b = 16.3950(16) Å, c = 11.6119(9) Å). The thermogravimetric analysis shows the material can be stabilized up to 350 °C, then the skeleton collapses between 350~510 °C. A luminescence test shows that the material gives out strong emission at 384 and 462 nm. The hydrogen storage capacity of this metal organic framework is 2.01 wt% at 77 K and a pressure of 10 bar. The carbon dioxide storage capacity of this metal organic framework is 4.17 mmol/g at 298 K and a pressure of 10 bar.
Redundancy allocation of heterogeneous components by simulation-based optimization
Authors: Chambari Amirhossein , Azimi Parham , Najafi Amir Abbas
Published: March 2021

The present study proposes a novel simulation-based optimization model for a series-parallel redundancy allocation problem (RAP) under heterogeneous components for reliability maximization subjected to system-level constraints through the identification of the optimal redundancy strategy, component type, and subsystem component count. To obtain higher practicality, active, cold-standby, mixed, and K-mixed redundancy strategies are incorporated as the decision variables. In general, as it is difficult to determine a closed-form (excluding active redundancy strategies), it is not possible to analytically assess system reliability. Earlier studies on system reliability optimization applied convenient lower bound approximation. This limits higher reliability levels. In order to tackle this problem, this study adopted simulation sampling to make unbiased efficient reliability estimates. To this end, 4Dscript interpreting programming was utilized to develop a simulation model. As RAP has a combinatorial nature and is a random and NP-hard problem, this study adopted the genetic algorithm (GA) optimization. To validate the model and assess GA efficiency, the numerical findings of some benchmark tests were employed. The proposed approach outperformed earlier approaches in reliability and confidence.
Monitoring children’s development in early childhood education settings to promote early detection of autism
Authors: Mozolic-Staunton Beth , Barbaro Josephine , Yoxall Jacqui , Donelly Michelle
Published: March 2021

Autism is a developmental condition that can be detected in early childhood. Early intervention can improve outcomes, though many children are not identified until they reach primary school. Early childhood educators are well placed to monitor children’s development and identify those who may benefit from additional supports, though implementation of standardised tools and processes is limited. The National Disability Insurance Scheme in Australia has increased the onus on educators to support families to access funded services. A workshop on evidence-informed practice in early detection for autism was provided for early childhood professionals. The theory of practice architectures informed development and analysis of pre- and post-workshop surveys to explore changes in early childhood educators’ perspectives on factors influencing universal developmental monitoring and referrals to early intervention supports using an evidence-based tool, the Social Attention and Communication Surveillance-Revised (SACS-R). Post-workshop increases in early childhood educators’ perceived knowledge and confidence are evident, though recent policy reforms present challenges. Population surveillance using SACS-R in early childhood education is effective for identification and referral for children who have autism, and capacity building for professionals to use SACS-R is recommended.
Feasibility study on microwave welding of thermoplastic using multiwalled carbon nanotubes as susceptor
Authors: Foong Phey Yee , Voon Chun Hong , Lim Bee Ying , Arshad Mohd Khairuddin Md , Gopinath Subash CB , Foo Kai Loong , Rahim Ruslinda A , Hashim Uda
Published: March 2021

Despite manufacturers’ goal of molding single component products from plastics, the structures of some of the products are far too complex to be molded as a single piece. Therefore, assembly of subcomponents into the final products is important for the manufacturing of many plastic-based products. To date, welding is the most efficient joining method for plastics. In this study, multiwalled carbon nanotubes were proposed as the susceptor for the microwave welding of high-density polyethylene considering multiwalled carbon nanotube is a good microwave absorber. multiwalled carbon nanotubes were first dispersed in ethanol in an ultrasonic bath to obtain a homogeneous dispersion. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes dispersion was dropped on the targeted area of the prepared dumbbell-shaped sample and dried in an oven at 45°C for 30 min. The sample was then subjected to 800 W microwave irradiation in the domestic microwave oven. The strength of the weld was tested by using tensile testing. Besides, the cross section of the welded joint was characterized by using scanning electron microscopy. The effect of microwave heating duration and the multiwalled carbon nanotube concentration in the dispersion were studied. It was found that the joint strength increased as the heating duration increase from 2 s to 8 s but decreased when the heating duration was further extended to 10 s. Scanning electron microscopic images showed that voids were formed at the joint interface when 10 s was used and resulted in the lowering of joint strength. In the study of the effect of the multiwalled carbon nanotube concentration in the dispersion, joint strength increased when the multiwalled carbon nanotubes concentration increased from 0.25 wt% to 0.75 wt%. However, the joint strength of sample with 1.00 wt% multiwalled carbon nanotube concentration decreased. The presence of a thick unwelded multiwalled carbon nanotubes layer at the joint interface for sample with 1.00 wt% multiwalled carbon nanotubes concentration as shown in scanning electron microscopic image was believed to cause the lowering of joint strength.
Two New Benzophenones From the Endohydric Moss Polytrichastrum formosum
Authors: Duan Xu-Hong , Zhang Xue-Wen , Qin Meng , He Pei , Pei Lin , Zhao Jian-Cheng , Chen Yu-Ling
Published: March 2021

Two new benzophenone derivatives (1 and 2), were obtained from the endohydric moss Polytrichastrum formosum. Their structures were established by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic and HRESIMS methods. The cytotoxicity of 1 and 2 against HCT-116, A-549, HepG2 and HeLa cell lines was evaluated, but no obvious cytotoxic activities were observed (IC50 >100 µM). Benzophenones may be characteristic components of Polytrichaceae.
Bone defect reconstruction via endochondral ossification: A developmental engineering strategy
Authors: Fu Rao , Liu Chuanqi , Yan Yuxin , Li Qingfeng , Huang Ru-Lin
Published: March 2021

Traditional bone tissue engineering (BTE) strategies induce direct bone-like matrix formation by mimicking the embryological process of intramembranous ossification. However, the clinical translation of these clinical strategies for bone repair is hampered by limited vascularization and poor bone regeneration after implantation in vivo. An alternative strategy for overcoming these drawbacks is engineering cartilaginous constructs by recapitulating the embryonic processes of endochondral ossification (ECO); these constructs have shown a unique ability to survive under hypoxic conditions as well as induce neovascularization and ossification. Such developmentally engineered constructs can act as transient biomimetic templates to facilitate bone regeneration in critical-sized defects. This review introduces the concept and mechanism of developmental BTE, explores the routes of endochondral bone graft engineering, highlights the current state of the art in large bone defect reconstruction via ECO-based strategies, and offers perspectives on the challenges and future directions of translating current knowledge from the bench to the bedside.
Materialist dialogues and the granular
Authors: Forman Peter
Published: March 2021

This commentary reflects upon the utility of the granular for bringing new materialists’ concerns for materiality into dialogue with historical materialists’ concerns for the historical power relations through which social phenomena emerge. I argue that the granular offers a promising vocabulary for bridging these interests, but suggest that further work is now needed to demonstrate how the granular can reconcile new materialists’ insistence on creative vitality with Marxian historical materialism.
Therapeutic role of atrial natriuretic peptide in early treatment of traumatic hemorrhagic shock
Authors: Jiang Shou-Yin , Shen Ye-Hua , Rao Tai-Wen , Zhao Xiao-Gang
Published: March 2021

The biological effect of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in traumatic hemorrhagic shock (THS) is unknown. This study was to evaluate whether ANP therapy can show organ protection in THS. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: ANP group, sham group, and control group. Pressure-controlled THS was induced in rats in ANP group and control group. ANP at a rate of 0.025 μg/kg/min was infused in ANP group during near-80 min of shock. After that, animals were resuscitated for 60 min and observed until 24 h. Hemodynamic parameters during shock and resuscitation were measured. Serum levels of ANP and lactate dehydrogenase, tissue oxidative stress and inflammatory factors, as well as liver and kidney function were determined. Tissue apoptosis was also assessed. There was no statistically significant difference between ANP group and control group in arterial pressure throughout the 150 min monitoring period. Blood urea nitrogen at 90 min and 24 h in ANP group was significantly lower than control group. Alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase activity at 90 min in control group were significantly higher than that in sham group. However, hepatic enzyme activity at 90 min in ANP group was not significantly different compared with sham or control group. After 24 h, myocardial expression of caspase 3 protein in ANP group was significantly reduced compared with control group. Jejunal and hepatic Malondialdehyde was increased following ANP treatment. ANP therapy during early THS has no significant adverse effect on hemodynamics but can exert oxidative stress and certain protective effect on multiple organs. Our study may shed light on the novel therapy of THS with regard to organ protection. The mechanisms underlying the organ protection require further study.