bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Value of Preventative Dental Care: A Discrete-Choice Experiment
Authors: Boyers D. , van der Pol M. , Watson V. , Lamont T. , Goulao B. , Ramsay C. , Duncan A. , Macpherson L. , Clarkson J.
Published: February 2021

Scale and polish (SP) and oral hygiene advice (OHA) are commonly provided in primary care dental practice to help prevent periodontal disease. These services are widely consumed by service users, incurring substantial cost, without any clear evidence of clinical benefit. This article aims to elicit general population preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for preventative dental care services and outcomes. An online discrete-choice experiment (DCE) was completed by a nationally representative sample of the UK general population. Respondents each answered 10 choice tasks that varied in terms of service attributes (SP, OHA, and provider of care), outcomes (bleeding gums and aesthetics), and cost. Choice tasks were selected using a pivoted segmented experimental design to improve task realism. An error components panel logit model was used to analyze the data. Marginal WTP (mWTP) for each attribute and level was calculated. In total, 667 respondents completed the DCE. Respondents valued more frequent SP, care provided by a dentist, and personalized OHA. Respondents were willing to pay for dental packages that generated less frequent (“never” or “hardly ever”) bleeding on brushing and teeth that look and feel at least “moderately clean.” Respondents were willing to pay more (+£145/y) for improvements in an aesthetic outcome from “very unclean” (−£85/y) to “very clean” (+£60/y) than they were for reduced bleeding frequency (+£100/y) from “very often” (−£54/y) to “never” (+£36/y). The general population value routinely provided SP, even in the absence of reductions in bleeding on brushing. Dental care service providers must consider service user preferences, including preferences for both health and nonhealth outcomes, as a key factor in any service redesign. Furthermore, the results provide mWTP estimates that can be used in cost-benefit analysis of these dental care services.
Third-Molar Status and Risk of Loss of Adjacent Second Molars
Authors: Kaye E. , Heaton B. , Aljoghaiman E.A. , Singhal A. , Sohn W. , Garcia R.I.
Published: February 2021

The prophylactic removal of asymptomatic third molars is a common but controversial procedure often rationalized as necessary to prevent future disease on adjacent teeth. Our objective in this retrospective cohort study of adult men was to examine whether second-molar loss differed by baseline status of the adjacent third molar, taking into account the individual’s overall state of oral hygiene, caries, and periodontitis. We analyzed data from participants of the VA Dental Longitudinal Study who had at least 1 second molar present at baseline and 2 or more triennial dental examinations between 1969 and 2007. We classified second molars by third-molar status in the same quadrant: unerupted, erupted, or absent. Tooth loss and alveolar bone loss were confirmed radiographically. Caries and restorations, calculus, and probing depth were assessed on each tooth. We estimated the hazards of second-molar loss with proportional hazards regression models for correlated data, controlling for age, smoking, education, absence of the first molar, and whole-mouth indices of calculus, caries, and periodontitis. The analysis included 966 men and 3024 second molar/first molar pairs. Follow-up was 22 ± 11 y (median 24, range 3–38 y). At baseline, 163 third molars were unerupted, 990 were erupted, and 1871 were absent. The prevalence of periodontitis on the second molars did not differ by third-molar status. The prevalence of distal caries was highest on the second molars adjacent to the erupted third molars and lowest on the second molars adjacent to the unerupted third molars. Relative to the absent third molars, adjusted hazards of loss of second molars were not significantly increased for those adjacent to erupted (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.79–1.16) or unerupted (HR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.91–1.73) third molars. We found similar results when using alveolar bone loss as the periodontitis indicator. Our findings suggest that retained third molars are not associated with an increased risk of second-molar loss in adult men.
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Practices for Lyme Disease by Clinicians, United States, 2013-2015
Authors: Beck Alyssa R. , Marx Grace E. , Hinckley Alison F.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Although tick-borne diseases account for a large number of health care visits in the United States, clinical practices for tick bite and Lyme disease treatment and prevention are not well understood. The objective of this study was to better understand factors associated with clinical practices related to tick bites and Lyme disease.

Methods

In 2013-2015, questions about tick-bite evaluation, Lyme disease diagnosis and treatment, appropriate use of Lyme disease testing, and tick-bite prevention were included in Porter Novelli’s DocStyles survey, a nationally representative annual web-based survey of health care providers. We performed analyses of responses by provider license type and state-level incidence (high or low) of Lyme disease in 2019.

Results

A total of 4517 providers were surveyed across the 3 study years. Overall, 80.9% of providers reported that they had evaluated at least 1 patient for a tick bite, 47.6% had diagnosed at least 1 patient with Lyme disease, and 61.9% had treated at least 1 patient for Lyme disease in the previous year. Providers from states with a high incidence of Lyme disease saw more patients for tick bites and Lyme disease than providers from states with a low incidence of Lyme disease. Few providers correctly chose Lyme disease testing as clinically useful in the hypothetical case of a patient from a state with a high incidence of Lyme disease with an arthritic knee (36.0%) or with new-onset atrioventricular block (39.5%), and respondents across all provider types incorrectly chose testing when not clinically indicated. Most providers (69.7%) reported routinely recommending tick-bite prevention methods to patients.

Conclusions

Many providers evaluate patients for tick bites and treat patients for Lyme disease, but knowledge about appropriate testing is low. Providers may benefit from tailored education about appropriate Lyme disease diagnosis, testing, and effective tick-bite prevention.
Evaluation of a New Field Epidemiology Training Program Intermediate Course to Strengthen Public Health Workforce Capacity in Tanzania
Authors: Wilson Kate , Juya Amir , Abade Ahmed , Sembuche Senga , Leonard Devotha , Harris Julie , Perkins Samantha , Chale Stella , Bakari Muhammad , Mghamba Janneth , Kohler Pamela
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a shortage of skilled epidemiologists to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats. Tanzania has implemented one of the first Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) Intermediate courses in Africa. This course aims to strengthen health workforce capacity in surveillance system assessment, outbreak investigation, and evaluation, prioritizing HIV control. We conducted an outcome evaluation of this new course.

Methods

We used a pre/post evaluation design using data from 4 cohorts of trainees who took the FETP Intermediate course from 2017 to 2020. We conducted knowledge assessments before and after each cohort and combined those results. Outcomes included knowledge and self-rated competency and trends in integrated disease surveillance and response (IDSR) data. We collected data through tests, field assignments, exit interviews, and data audits. We compared the mean change in pre-/posttest scores using linear regression and 95% CIs. We used content analysis to summarize exit interviews.

Results

Fifty-three FETP trainees from 10 regions enrolled in the FETP Intermediate course, and 52 (99.0%) completed the course. We found substantial increases in mean knowledge (44.0 to 68.0 points) and self-rated competency (4.14 to 4.43) scores before and after the course. Trainees evaluated 52 surveillance systems and 52 district HIV care programs, and 39 (75.0%) trainees participated in outbreak investigations. From before to after cohort 1, timeliness and completeness of IDSR reports increased from 4.2% to 52.1% and from 27.4% to 76.5%, respectively. Course strengths were quality of instruction, individualized mentoring, and practical skills gained. Challenges were mentor availability, limited time for data analysis practice, and balancing work and field assignments.

Conclusions

The Tanzania FETP Intermediate course substantially improved trainee knowledge and helped to improve local data quality and reporting. This course is a promising model to strengthen subnational capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats in Africa.
USPHS Corps Care
Authors: Myles Ian A. , Johnson Daniel R. , Pham Hanah , Adams Ava , Anderson Jerome , Banks-Shields Marina , Battle Andrea G. , Demby Mary L. , Hastings Deborah , Lewis Robin Marie , Pauli Ingrid B. , Vedder Jennifer A.M. , Weeks Cole , Willbright Marion L. , Guyton Cedric B. , Orsega Susan , Litton-Belcher Kimberly Shay
Published: February 2021

Force health protection (FHP) is defined as “the prevention of disease and injury in order to protect the strength and capabilities” of any service population. FHP was the foundational principal of the US Public Health Service (USPHS). President John Adams’ signing of An Act for Sick and Disabled Seamen on July 16, 1798, marked the first dedication of US federal resources to ensuring the well-being of US civilian sailors and Naval service members. On January 4, 1889, President Cleveland enacted the USPHS Commissioned Corps, creating the world’s first (and still only) uniformed service dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing the health and safety of the United States and the world. Building on the lessons of the 2014-2015 response to the Ebola virus pandemic, the Corps Care program was formalized in 2017 to establish and implement a uniform and comprehensive strategy to meet the behavioral health, medical, and spiritual needs of all Commissioned Corps officers. Its role was expanded in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which has placed unprecedented demands on health care workers and spotlighted the need for FHP strategies. We describe the FHP roles of the Corps Care program for the resiliency of Commission Corps officers in general and the Corps’ impact during the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative analysis of FHP discussions with deployed officers highlights the unique challenges to FHP presented by the pandemic response.
A Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Virtual Reality and In Vivo Exposure Therapy as Psychological Interventions for Public Speaking Anxiety
Authors: Reeves Rachel , Curran David , Gleeson Amanda , Hanna Donncha
Published: February 2021

Public speaking anxiety (PSA) is a prevalent condition with disabling occupational, educational, and social consequences. Exposure therapy is a commonly utilized approach for treating PSA. Traditionally, this intervention has been delivered as in vivo exposure therapy (IVET). Limitations inherent to in vivo as a mode of delivery have been identified and studies have increasingly explored the use of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) as an alternative. Understanding the efficacy of both VRET and IVET as psychological interventions for PSA is important. A systematic search identified 11 studies with 508 participants. Meta-analysis yielded a large significant effect wherein VRET resulted in significant reductions in PSA versus control of −1.39 ( Z = 3.96, p < .001) and a similar large significant effect wherein IVET resulted in significant reductions in PSA versus control of −1.41 ( Z = 7.51, p < .001). Although IVET was marginally superior to VRET, both interventions proved efficacious. Given the advantages of utilizing VRET over IVET future research and clinical practice could explore VRET as a treatment option for PSA.
Examining Nonnormal Latent Variable Distributions for Non-Ignorable Missing Data
Authors: Liu Chen-Wei
Published: February 2021

Missing not at random (MNAR) modeling for non-ignorable missing responses usually assumes that the latent variable distribution is a bivariate normal distribution. Such an assumption is rarely verified and often employed as a standard in practice. Recent studies for “complete” item responses (i.e., no missing data) have shown that ignoring the nonnormal distribution of a unidimensional latent variable, especially skewed or bimodal, can yield biased estimates and misleading conclusion. However, dealing with the bivariate nonnormal latent variable distribution with present MNAR data has not been looked into. This article proposes to extend unidimensional empirical histogram and Davidian curve methods to simultaneously deal with nonnormal latent variable distribution and MNAR data. A simulation study is carried out to demonstrate the consequence of ignoring bivariate nonnormal distribution on parameter estimates, followed by an empirical analysis of “don’t know” item responses. The results presented in this article show that examining the assumption of bivariate nonnormal latent variable distribution should be considered as a routine for MNAR data to minimize the impact of nonnormality on parameter estimates.
The Impact of Nonpartisan Fiscal Institutions on Budgetary Delay
Authors: Emrich Colin
Published: February 2021

Can the design of governmental institutions promote timely governance? This article investigates this question by examining the relationship between the design of fiscal institutions and budgetary delays across the fifty states. These budgetary offices are created by lawmakers to advance sound fiscal policy and sustainable public finance. This article argues that the unbiased information provided by nonpartisan budget offices minimize the likelihood of budgetary delay as well as lessen how long budgetary stalemate persists when a delay occurs. The findings suggest that nonpartisan fiscal institutions do not prevent budgetary delay but substantially reduce the duration of budgetary gridlock.
Teachers’ metaphors and views about gifted students and their education
Authors: Akgül Gülendam
Published: February 2021

Gifted students differ from their peers in many areas, and require additional effort and skills from their teachers in regular schools. Teachers in regular education play a critical role in the identification of gifted students and education. Therefore, considering their attitudes toward these students and gifted education in general will provide a deeper understanding of teachers’ needs regarding the quality of gifted education. The present study aims to examine teachers’ perceptions about gifted students through the use of metaphors and attitudes toward gifted education. Qualitative data were collected from 136 teachers utilizing two open-ended questions. Teachers used metaphors based on three categories: gifted education, the social value and various characteristics related to giftedness. The results were discussed in terms of practical implications, teachers’ training needs, educational strategies for gifted students and challenges endemic to the identification process in Turkey.
The self-fulfilling prophecy of insecurity: Mediation effects of conflict communication styles on the association between adult attachment and relationship adjustment
Authors: Fišerová Anna , Fiala Vojtěch , Fayette Dan , Lindová Jitka
Published: February 2021

This study examines associations between the dimensions of insecure attachment (anxiety, avoidance) and dyadic adjustment, with a potential mediating effect of conflict communication style. Dyadic analyses and mediation tests were performed on data from 97 Czech and Slovak long-term heterosexual couples. Attachment dimensions were measured by Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised measure (ECR-R-16), six conflict communication styles by the Romantic Partner Conflict Scale (RPCS), and dyadic adjustment by the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS). We confirmed previous findings according to which in both sexes, attachment anxiety and avoidance have a negative effect on dyadic adjustment. We also found that women’s anxiety is negatively associated with their partner’s dyadic adjustment. Our mediation tests showed that in both sexes, the association between attachment anxiety and low dyadic adjustment was partially mediated by a reactive conflict communication style. Moreover, the association between attachment avoidance and low dyadic adjustment in women was partially mediated by both the reactive and compromising communication styles. These results are discussed in the context of behavioral and emotional characteristics of both attachment insecurities and gender differences in interpersonal behavior.
Influence of two-handed jaw thrust during tracheal intubation on postoperative sore throat: a prospective randomised study
Authors: Huh Hyub , Go Doo Yeon , Cho Jang Eun , Park Jihoon , Lee Jiwon , Kim Hyun-Chang
Published: February 2021

Objective

General anaesthesia with tracheal intubation results in sore throat. We evaluated the influence of the two-handed jaw thrust on postoperative sore throat in patients who require tracheal intubation.

Methods

In this prospective, double-blind, single-centre, parallel-arm, and randomised trial, 92 patients who were scheduled for general anaesthesia for total hip arthroplasty were allocated to one of two groups. In the jaw thrust group (n = 46), the two-handed jaw thrust manoeuvre was applied at intubation. In the control group (n = 46), conventional intubation with sham jaw thrust was performed. Incidences of airway morbidities including sore throat, hoarseness, and cough at 2, 4, and 24 hours postoperatively were compared.

Results

During the postoperative 24 hours, the incidence of sore throat (8 [17%] vs. 20 [44%]) and hoarseness were lower in the jaw thrust group (8 [17%] vs. 18 [39%]) compared with the control group. The incidence of cough during the postoperative 24 hours was similar between the groups.

Conclusions

The jaw thrust manoeuvre significantly reduced sore throat and hoarseness in patients after general anaesthesia using tracheal intubation. Clinical trial registration: NCT 03568279.
Senescence associated long non-coding RNA 1 regulates cigarette smoke-induced senescence of type II alveolar epithelial cells through sirtuin-1 signaling
Authors: Yuan Dong , Liu Yuanshun , Li Mengyu , Zhou Hongbin , Cao Liming , Zhang Xiaoqin , Li Yaqing
Published: February 2021

Objective

The primary aim of our study was to explore the mechanisms through which long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-mediated sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) signaling regulates type II alveolar epithelial cell (AECII) senescence induced by a cigarette smoke-media suspension (CSM).

Methods

Pharmacological SIRT1 activation was induced using SRT2104 and senescence-associated lncRNA 1 (SAL-RNA1) was overexpressed. The expression of SIRT1, FOXO3a, p53, p21, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 in different groups was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting; the activity of SA-β gal was detected by staining; the binding of SIRT1 to FOXO3a and p53 gene transcription promoters was detected by Chip.

Results

We found that CSM increased AECII senescence, while SAL-RNA1 overexpression and SIRT1 activation significantly decreased levels of AECII senescence induced by CSM. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation, we found that SIRT1 bound differentially to transcriptional complexes on the FOXO3a and p53 promoters.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that lncRNA-SAL1-mediated SIRT1 signaling reduces senescence of AECIIs induced by CSM. These findings suggest a new therapeutic target to limit the irreversible apoptosis of lung epithelial cells in COPD patients.
SIRT5 regulates autophagy and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells
Authors: Gu Wen , Qian Qinyi , Xu Yinkai , Xu Xiaolan , Zhang Liping , He Songbing , Li Dechun
Published: February 2021

Objective

Accumulating evidence illustrates that sirtuins (SIRTs) regulate autophagy and apoptosis in cancer cells; however, the role of SIRT5 in gastric cancer (GC) cells remains unknown. In this study, we examined the role of SIRT5 in GC cells.

Methods

We detected SIRT5 protein levels in freshly collected samples from patients with GC. Next, we studied the function of SIRT5 in autophagy. Furthermore, the signaling pathway through which SIRT5 enhanced autophagy in GC cells was detected. In addition, we established a GC cell apoptosis model to analyze the role of SIRT5 in apoptosis.

Results

SIRT5 expression was downregulated in GC tissues. We discovered that SIRT5 promoted autophagy in GC cells. We demonstrated that SIRT5 enhanced autophagy in GC cells via the AMP-activated protein kinase–mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway. In addition, SIRT5 was degraded during apoptosis in GC cells. Meanwhile, we observed that calpains and caspase-related proteins were associated with SIRT5-related GC cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

SIRT5 is a crucial regulator of autophagy and apoptosis in GC cell lines that can maintain the balance of autophagy and apoptosis.
Decreased serum bilirubin levels in children with lead poisoning
Authors: Ye Mengsi , Zhang Tingting , Chen Zhibo , Chen Shuo , Chen Huale
Published: February 2021

Objective

Lead is a toxic heavy metal, which causes irreversible damage in children. Oxidative stress is the underlying mechanism of lead toxicity, and monitoring oxidative stress of lead poisoning children in vivo is important. Our study aimed to investigate blood serum levels of biochemical parameters, including albumin, bilirubin, creatinine, and uric acid, which are regarded as non-enzymatic antioxidants, in children with lead poisoning.

Methods

We studied 355 children with lead poisoning and 355 age- and sex-matched controls. We analyzed clinical characteristics and measured serum levels of total protein, globulin, albumin, bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase, urea, and creatinine.

Results

We found that albumin, bilirubin, urea, and creatinine levels were significantly lower and AST, total protein, and globulin levels were higher in children with lead poisoning than in controls. Direct bilirubin, albumin, total protein, urea, creatinine, and AST levels were associated with lead poisoning after adjustment for other covariates. Spearman analysis showed that direct bilirubin, albumin, and urea levels were independent indicators (i.e., not related to hemoglobin or weight), while creatinine levels showed a moderate correlation with weight.

Conclusion

Lead interferes with the non-enzymatic antioxidant system in children, and lead poisoning results in a decrease in serum bilirubin levels.
Deep exploration of PARP inhibitors in breast cancer: monotherapy and combination therapy
Authors: Chen Zheling , Wang Xiao , Li Xiao , Zhou Yucheng , Chen Ke
Published: February 2021

Objective

Nearly 5% of patients with breast cancer carry germline BRCA mutations, which are more common in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Previous clinical trials demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis) against BRCA-mutated metastatic breast cancer. The current study conducted a systemic review and meta-analysis of the clinical efficiency and safety of PARPis, either alone or combined with chemotherapy, in patients with TNBC.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify randomized controlled trials comparing PARPi therapy with chemotherapy, and comparisons of chemotherapy plus PARPis with chemotherapy alone were included. The study endpoints included the clinical response, progression-free survival, and adverse event rates.

Results

PARPi therapy was revealed to improve progression-free survival in patients with advanced breast cancer, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Subgroup analysis illustrated that patients with mutant BRCA1 and mutant BRCA2 and those who had not been treated with platinum-based agents could specifically benefit from PARPis.

Conclusion

PARPi monotherapy can significantly improve clinical outcomes in patients with advanced breast cancer, especially those with TNBC, those who had not previously received platinum therapy, and those with mutant BRCA1/2. PARPis combined with chemotherapy represent new treatment options for patients with advanced cancer.
Alkali-activated slag concrete with paper industry waste
Authors: Mavroulidou Maria , Shah Shamil
Published: February 2021

Pulp and paper manufacturing and recycling industries are a resource-intensive sector, generating 25–40% of the annual municipal solid waste worldwide. Waste includes abundant volumes of paper sludge, as well as the product of its incineration, namely paper sludge ash. These two waste materials are both predominantly landfilled. There is thus a drive for additional valorisation routes for these materials. This short communication focuses on the potential use of paper sludge ash in alkali-activated cement concrete; this type of concrete was estimated to potentially reduce CO2 emissions by up to 5–6 times, while it can also incorporate waste materials or industrial by-products in its composition. The paper presents a laboratory study assessing the feasibility of structural alkali-activated cement concrete with ground granulated blastfurnace slag (a by-product of steel production) and paper sludge ash. Paper sludge ash is used mainly as a source of Ca(OH)2 in the alkaline activator solution, and secondly as an additional source of aluminosilicates. A number of factors potentially affecting the activation process and the resulting concrete quality were investigated, including different dosage of activators, curing conditions and curing time. Mixes with paper sludge ash in the activator system developed high early concrete strengths at ambient temperatures and maintained adequate strengths for structural concrete. Further mix optimisation and mechanical and durability testing, accompanied by material characterisation, are required to establish the advantages of using this waste material in structural alkali-activated cement concrete.
Patterns of Brain Injury in Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke and the Development of Infantile Spasms
Authors: Srivastava Ratika , Shaw Oriana E. F. , Armstrong Edward , Morneau-Jacob Francois-Dominique , Yager Jerome Y.
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Perinatal arterial ischemic stroke (PAIS) underlies approximately 10% of infantile spasms (IS). We aim to identify patterns of brain injury in ischemic stroke that may predispose infants to infantile spasms.

Methods:

Sixty-four perinatal arterial ischemic stroke patients were identified meeting the following inclusion criteria: term birth, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showing ischemic stroke or encephalomalacia in an arterial distribution, and follow-up records. Patients who developed infantile spasms (PAIS-IS) were analyzed descriptively for ischemic stroke injury patterns and were compared to a seizure-free control group (PAIS-only). Stroke injury was scored using the modified pediatric ASPECTS (modASPECTS).

Results:

The PAIS-IS (n = 9) group had significantly higher modASPECTS than the PAIS-only (n = 16) group ( P = .002, Mann-Whitney). A greater proportion of PAIS-IS patients had injury to deep cerebral structures (67%) than PAIS-only (25%).

Conclusion:

Infarct size was significantly associated with infantile spasms development. Results support theories implicating deep cerebral structures in infantile spasms pathogenesis. This may help identify perinatal arterial ischemic stroke patients at risk of infantile spasms, facilitating more timely diagnosis.
Prevention of urinary infection through the incorporation of silver–ricinoleic acid–polystyrene nanoparticles on the catheter surface
Authors: Koc Hazal , Kilicay Ebru , Karahaliloglu Zeynep , Hazer Baki , Denkbas Emir B
Published: February 2021

Nosocominal infections associated with biofilm formation on urinary catheters cause serious complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of the polyurethane (PU) catheter modified with tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) attached Ag nanoparticles embedded PolyRicinoleic acid-Polystyrene Nanoparticles (PU-TCH-AgNPs-PRici-PS NPs) and the influence on antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of urinary catheters infected by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. For this purpose, AgNPs embedded PRici graft PS graft copolymers (AgNPs-PRici-g-PS) were synthesized via free radical polymerization and characterized by FTIR, HNMR and DSC. AgNPs-PRici-PS NPs were prepared and optimized by the different parameters and the optimized size of nanoparticle was found as about 150 ± 1 nm. The characterization of the nanoparticles and the morphological evaluation were carried out by FTIR and SEM. Short term stability of nanoparticles was realised at 4°C for 30 days. In vitro release profiles of TCH and Ag NPs were also investigated. The formation of biofilm on PU modified TCH-Ag NPs-PRici-PS NPs, was evaluated and the biocompatibility test of the nanoparticles was realized via the mouse fibroblast (L929) and mouse urinary bladder cells (G/G An1). This is the first time that TCH-AgNPs-PRici-PS NPs used in the modification of PU catheter demonstrated high antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against the urinary tract infection.
Mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes/epoxy nanocomposites: Pre-curing, curing temperature, and cooling rate
Authors: Judawisastra Hermawan , Harito Christian , Anindyajati Dika , Purnama Hengky , Abdullah Akbar Hanif Dawam
Published: February 2021

The effects of composite fabrication, such as pre-curing, curing temperature, and cooling rate, were studied. In this work, the pre-curing was defined as heat treatment of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWNCTs) with Diglycidyl Ether of Bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy resin. Acid purified MWCNTs were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The pre-curing facilitated bonding between MWCNTs and epoxy via the oxirane ring of DGEBA, which accelerated the curing process of epoxy and increased mechanical properties. The elevated curing temperature on the pre-cured sample further improved the composite’s mechanical properties by increasing interfacial bonding due to cross-linking. The rapid cooling using liquid nitrogen during pre-curing treatment prevented re-agglomeration of MWCNTs, showing smaller agglomerates and improving the mechanical properties. Agglomeration was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, while the bonding between MWCNTs and epoxy was examined by the length of fibre pull-out on the fracture surface. Tensile testing was deployed for mechanical properties characterization. The degree of cure was determined by FTIR and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA).
High rates of unprotected receptive anal sex and vulnerabilities to HIV infection among Brazilian men who have sex with men
Authors: Queiroz Artur Acelino Francisco Luz Nunes , Sousa Álvaro Francisco Lopes de , Araújo Telma Maria Evangelista de , Brignol Sandra , Reis Renata Karina , Fronteira Inês , Moura Maria Eliete Batista
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to evaluate unprotected receptive anal sex intercourse (URAI) rates and vulnerabilities to HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) that use geosocial networking dating apps in Brazil. An online, analytical, cross-sectional study was carried out with 2,250 MSM. The analyzed variables were grouped according to domains of vulnerability and analyzed by bi and multivariate statistics to calculate the Adjusted Odds Ratios (aOR). The prevalence of self-reported HIV was 7.1%; and of URAI, 23.4%. The studied variables that increased the chances of engaging in URAI were: identifying as homosexual (aOR = 8.30; 95%CI = 5.68:12.04), pansexual (aOR = 5.01; 95%CI  = 2.04:12.38), or bisexual (aOR = 3.14; 95%CI = 2.03:4.80), using apps for obtaining sex (aOR = 1.3; 95%CI = 1.0:1.5), engaging in group sex (aOR = 1.6; 95%CI = 1.3:2.0), and reporting chemsex (aOR = 1.5; 95%CI = 1.1:2.0). Self-reported positive HIV status was associated with: less than a minimum wage income (aOR = 1.78; 95%CI = 1.22:2.58), lower education (aOR = 1.86; 95%CI = 1.31 CI; 2,64), not knowing the partner’s HIV status (aOR = 1.84; 95%CI = 1.06:3.19), practicing group sex (aOR = 1.67; 95%CI = 1.04; 2.68), and chemsex (aOR = 2.03; 95%CI =1.06:3.19). The applications interaction is shaped by their own users to better meet their desires and needs. However, this behavior exposes individuals to HIV vulnerabilities.
Understanding the impact of Brexit: The case of foreign software corporations in Scotland and South East England
Authors: Fuller Crispian
Published: February 2021

Market and institutional shocks and upheaval, brought about by political, economic and social changes, have the potential to generate significant corporate restructuring. Foreign subsidiaries are particularly vulnerable to such impacts given the embeddedness of parent companies in their home countries, with the potential for disinvestment and regional decoupling. This paper examines the impact of the Brexit vote and negotiation period on UK-based foreign subsidiaries in the software and software-related sectors in Scotland and South East England. This firm-centric approach follows recent evolutionary thinking that restates the importance of examining the firm as a means by which to understand how regions respond to such disturbances. Rather than simply examine impact, the paper is concerned with why the scope and scale of impacts are mediated by particular corporate and global production networks (GPN) processes. Key to this is the examination of the importance of the value creation corporate role and degree of replication within the corporation (specificity), the GPN spatial configuration, and the markets that subsidiaries are mandated to serve. The paper concludes that a variety of impacts are evident, but that notable negative consequences have arisen for subsidiaries with low corporate specificity, working through European Union (EU)-configured GPNs, and serving European markets. These negative impacts are more notable in Scotland, compared with South East England where a large minority have experienced no detrimental impacts.
Serum fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23): associations with hyperphosphatemia and clinical staging of feline chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lin Jiabao , Lin Luqi , Chen Siyu , Yu Lifang , Chen Songjie , Xia Zhaofei
Published: February 2021

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is an independent monitor of the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in human medicine, and FGF-23 may have value as a biomarker in feline CKD. We evaluated the relationship between serum FGF-23 and CKD stages, and the effect of age on FGF-23 in normal cats. We measured FGF-23 and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentrations by ELISA, with intra- and inter-assay CVs ≤ 15%. The percentage recovery of FGF-23 and iPTH remained stable for up to 7 d in samples stored at −20°C and −80°C. We measured FGF-23 in 304 cats, among which 196 were diagnosed with CKD. The 108 clinically healthy cats were divided into 5 subgroups based on growth stage (0–2 y, 3–6 y, 7–10 y, 11–14 y, ≥ 15 y). No statistical difference was found in FGF-23 among age groups ( p = 0.15) or by sex in healthy subjects. Using the International Renal Interest Society guideline, 34 cats were defined as CKD stage 1, 74 stage 2, 51 stage 3, and 37 stage 4. FGF-23 was higher in cats in all CKD stages than in controls. Higher serum phosphorus was observed in stage 3 ( p = 0.04) and 4 ( p < 0.01) compared to controls. iPTH increased as CKD progressed. Pearson analysis indicated a positive linear relationship between FGF-23 and iPTH (control: r = 0.70, p < 0.01; CKD: r = 0.46, p = 0.02). FGF-23 may be a useful biomarker of feline CKD and may precede hyperphosphatemia in advanced feline CKD.
Looking to the Middle of the Qualitative-Quantitative Spectrum for Integrated Mixed Methods
Authors: Paoletti Jensine , Bisbey Tiffany M. , Zajac Stephanie , Waller Mary J. , Salas Eduardo
Published: February 2021

Substantially advancing the study of teams will require a new research paradigm complete with methods capable of capturing the complex, dynamic process of teamwork. In this paper, we suggest studying teams with an integrated mixed methods approach (i.e., methods defined by an interconnected mix of quantitative and qualitative characteristics) can help address current methodological shortcomings of our science by promoting sufficiently contextualized research. Through a review of methods, we highlight exemplars of integrated mixed methods that have the potential to be more widely adopted; namely, interaction analysis, content analysis, cluster analysis, state space grids, and agent-based modeling.
Unspoken Grammar of Place: Anti-Blackness as a Spatial Imaginary in Education
Authors: Jenkins DeMarcus A.
Published: February 2021

This article builds from scholarship on anti-Blackness in education and spatial imaginaries in geography to theorize an anti-Black spatial imaginary as the prevailing spatial logic that has shaped the configuration and character of American social intuitions, including K-12 schools. As a spatial imaginary, anti-Blackness is circulated through discourses, images, and texts that tell a story of Blackness as a problem, non-human, and placeless. Anchored by the assumption that Black populations are spatially illegitimate, the anti-Black spatial imaginary marks Black bodies as undesirable and therefore extractable from spaces and places that have been envisioned for their exclusion. I consider schools as sites spatialized terror where the exhibitions of terror consist of forcing students to observe other Black bodies being forcibly removed from the classroom and school community; constant rejection of Black language, traditions, music preferences, and other cultural forms of expression; the obliteration of Black names and identities. I offer ways that school leaders can unsettle the anti-Black spatial imaginary to transform schools as sites of holistic healing and possibilities.
Evaluation of Discipline-Specific Outcomes Through a Multidisciplinary Team Clinic for Patients With Isolated Cleft Palate
Authors: Trivedi Prerak B. , Padovano William M. , Skolnick Gary B. , Menezes Maithilee D. , Grames Lynn M. , Cheung Susan , Kim Andrew M. , Cradock Mary M. , Naidoo Sybill D. , Snyder-Warwick Alison K. , Patel Kamlesh B.
Published: February 2021

Objective:

To describe the incidence and timing of provider-specific interventions for children with isolated cleft palate.

Design:

This was a retrospective cohort study involving review of medical records.

Setting:

Multidisciplinary team care clinic at a tertiary academic children’s hospital between January 2000 and July 2019.

Patients:

Patients with isolated nonsyndromic cleft palate seen by an American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association-approved team; 138 children were included.

Main Outcome Measures:

Study outcomes included incidence of secondary velopharyngeal management, tympanostomy tube insertion, speech therapy, hearing loss, dental/orthodontic treatment, and psychology interventions. Provider-specific outcomes were calculated for patients at ages 0 to 3, 3 to 5, and >5 years.

Results:

Median follow-up time was 7.0 years (interquartile range: 3.3-11.8 years). At their last team assessment, 42% of patients still had conductive hearing loss. The rate of tympanostomy tube insertions not done alongside a palatoplasty was highest for ages 3 to 5 and dropped after new American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation guidelines in 2013 ( P = .015); 54% of patients received speech-language therapy during follow-up. Palatoplasty, psychology, and dental/orthodontic treatment were all less common than speech or ENT treatment ( P < .01). Secondary palatoplasty was performed in 31 patients (22%). Patients who received speech, dental/orthodontic, or psychology intervention followed up longer than those who did not (9.8 vs 2.1 years, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Half of the patients terminated team follow-up by age 7, suggesting that burden of care outweighed perceived benefits of continued follow-up for many families. These results can be used to adjust protocols for children with isolated cleft palate.
Dental Age Estimation According to European Formula and Willems Method: Comparison Between Children With and Without Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Markovic Evgenija , Marinkovic Nemanja , Zelic Ksenija , Milovanovic Petar , Djuric Marija , Nedeljkovic Nenad
Published: February 2021

Objective:

To assess dental age and deviations of dental from chronological age according to the Willems and Cameriere methods (European formula) in patients with cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CL/P) and compare it with control group.

Design:

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Clinic of Orthodontics.

Participants:

Sixty-nine patients with CL/P between 6 and 15 years of age (55 with unilateral and 14 with bilateral CL/P) with 148 panoramic radiographs. The same number of radiographs was examined in the age-matched control group.

Main Outcome Measures:

Estimation and comparison of dental age and differences of dental from chronological age in relation to the type of cleft, sex, and age in the group of patients with and without CL/P according to Willems and Cameriere method.

Results:

No significant intersex and intergroup differences were found in deviations of dental from chronological age according to Cameriere method ( P > .05). Significant difference in deviation of dental from chronological age was found between the patients with and without CL/P according to Willems method ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Cameriere European formula for dental age estimation, which is not influenced by sex and tooth morphology, showed similar dental development of children with and without CL/P. However, Willems method detected that deviation of dental from chronological age significantly differed between children with and without clefts.
Comparison of Isolated Screw to Plate and Screw Fixation for Tarsometatarsal Arthrodesis Including Clinical Outcome Predictors
Authors: Ettinger Sarah , Altemeier Anna , Stukenborg-Colsman Christina , Yao Daiwei , Plaass Christian , Lerch Matthias , Claassen Leif
Published: February 2021

Background:

The common treatment for end-stage tarsometatarsal (TMT) arthritis is an arthrodesis of the affected joints. This study was performed to examine the clinical and radiographic outcome after TMT arthrodesis and to identify risk factors for postoperative complications.

Methods:

A total of 101 patients with tarsometatarsal arthritis of at least 2 joints were retrospectively examined. Data were acquired using clinical and radiographic examination, pedobarographic analysis, and standardized questionnaires, including the European Foot and Ankle Society Score, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, a pain numeric rating scale (NRS), the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, and the University of California at Los Angeles Activity (UCLA) Score. The fixation technique, any complications, and revision surgery were recorded.

Results:

All scores improved significantly, except for the UCLA Score. The mean pain NRS score was significantly reduced from 7.7 preoperative to 3.0 postoperative ( P < .05). The overall nonunion rate was 12.6%. Compared with 2 crossed-screw fixation, locking plate plus compression screw fixation was associated with a decreased nonunion rate (odds ratio [OR] 0.165, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.032-0.854; P = .017). A body mass index >27 was significantly associated with a higher nonunion rate and wound healing problems (OR 12.05, 95% CI 1.430-101.468; P = .006; OR 5.03, 95% CI 1.273-19.871; P = .013). The overall reoperation rate was 25.2%.

Conclusion:

TMT arthrodesis of the medial and central column resulted in significant improvement in foot function and pain. A major complication was nonunion. Locking plate plus compression screw fixation was associated with a lower nonunion rate.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative series.
Femoral Head Allografts for Talar Body Defects
Authors: Coetzee J. Chris , Den Hartog Bryan D. , Stone McGaver Rebecca , Seiffert Kayla J. , Giveans M. Russell
Published: February 2021

Background:

Large structural bone deficits after a failed ankle arthroplasty or avascular necrosis (AVN) of the talus present a complex reconstruction challenge. The aim of this study was to report the results of patients undergoing an ankle arthrodesis or tibiotalocalcaneal fusion using a femoral head allograft (FHA).

Methods:

All ankle and tibiotalocalcaneal fusions using FHA between February 2006 and January 2019 were included. Forty-four patients (45 ankles) with a mean follow-up of 42.8 months were studied. Males accounted for 58.1% (25/43 patients). All patients had either failure of primary or revision total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) or AVN of the talus. Pre- and postoperative Veterans RAND Health Survey (VR-12), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain scores were obtained. A patient satisfaction survey was distributed postoperatively and results were tabulated.

Results:

Preoperatively to postoperatively, the VR-12 Mental score remained essentially unchanged ( P = .752) and the VR-12 Physical score improved ( P = .007); the FAAM Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Sport scores improved ( P < .001); the AOS Pain and Disability scores improved ( P < .001); and the man VAS score improved ( P < .001). The overall satisfaction rate was 78.6 on a 100-point scale. At an average of 18.7 weeks, 90.7% of the ankles were substantially fused. Five patients went on to nonunions and revision surgery.

Conclusion:

The use of FHA to treat talar defects was a viable option. In this complex patient population, the arthrodesis rate was high at 89% with very positive patient-reported outcome scores.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
How Do Observers React to Companies’ Humorous Responses to Online Public Complaints?
Authors: Béal Mathieu , Grégoire Yany
Published: February 2021

The current research examines the way that observing consumers react when companies use humor to address online public complaints on social media. Drawing on, first, a field study using companies’ humorous responses on social media and, second, on two main scenario-based experiments, we use benign violation theory to capture simultaneously the unfavorable effect (i.e., inferred negative motives) and the favorable effect (i.e., humor appreciation) of employing humor in a public complaining context. The results reveal that online observers respond more favorably (in terms of likes, retweets, and purchase intentions) when firms use affiliative humor (e.g., laughing with the complainer) rather than aggressive humor (e.g., laughing at the complainer). Also, affiliative humor and an accommodative recovery (e.g., apologies and compensation) provide equal results in terms of observers’ purchase intentions. Because observers infer more negative motives of companies, affiliative humor compensates over an accommodative recovery by being funnier. Finally, our last study presents a reversal effect depending on brand personality; while sincere brands should always favor affiliative humor, aggressive humor elicits higher purchase intentions when performed by exciting brands. This research gives managerial insights about observers’ reactions to humorous responses to online complaints and the importance for humor to fit with brand personality.