bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Yield and Therapeutic Consequences of Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing in Sporadic Primary Immunodeficiency
Authors: Sogkas Georgios , Dubrowinskaja Natalia , Schütz Katharina , Steinbrück Lars , Götting Jasper , Schwerk Nicolaus , Baumann Ulrich , Grimbacher Bodo , Witte Torsten , Schmidt Reinhold E. , Atschekzei Faranaz
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by increased susceptibility to infections, immune dysregulation, and/or malignancy. Genetic studies, especially during the last decade, led to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of primary immunodeficiencies and contributed to their classification into distinct monogenic disorders falling under one of the >430 currently known inborn errors of immunity (IEI). The growing availability of molecular genetic testing resulted in the increasing identification of patients with IEI. Here, we evaluated the diagnostic yield and the clinical consequences of targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) in a cohort of 294 primary immunodeficiency patients, primarily consisting of cases with sporadic primary antibody deficiency. Method: We have custom designed a tNGS panel to sequence a cohort of PID patients. Agilent’s HaloPlex Target Enrichment System for Illumina was used for DNA target enrichment. Results: tNGS identified a definite or predicted pathogenic variant in 15.3% of patients. The highest diagnostic rate was observed among patients with combined immunodeficiency or immune dysregulation, for whom genetic diagnosis may affect therapeutic decision-making. Conclusion: Next-generation sequencing has changed diagnostic assignment and paved the way for targeted therapeutic intervention with agents directed at reverting the disease-causing molecular abnormality or its pathophysiological consequences. Therefore, such targeted therapies and identifying the genetic basis of PID can be essential for patients with manifested immune dysregulation as conventional immunomodulatory regimens may exert an immunosuppressive effect, aggravating their immunodeficiency or may only inadequately control autoimmune or lymphoproliferative manifestations.
Immunoglobulin-Negative Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis Masked in Diabetic Nephropathy: A Case Report and Discussion of a Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Lerner Gabriel B.W. , Singer Gary G. , Larsen Christopher P. , Caza Tiffany N.
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare glomerular disease with poor prognosis, characterized by deposition of randomly arranged fibrillar material measuring 10–30 nm in diameter. This diagnosis is confirmed with DNAJB9 immunohistochemistry as well as ultrastructural examination. Ultrastructurally, the fibrillary material seen in this entity may be confused with diabetic fibrillosis occurring in diabetic nephropathy. Case Presentation: We present a case of a 63-year-old African American male with remote hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and type II diabetes mellitus who presented with chronic kidney disease and nephrotic range proteinuria. A kidney biopsy revealed PAS-positive mesangial matrix expansion consistent with diabetic nephropathy and focal randomly oriented fibril deposition on ultrastructural examination. Immunofluorescence for immunoglobulin G and light chains was negative by both routine and paraffin immunofluorescence. Immunohistochemistry for DNAJB9 was diffusely positive, confirming co-existing FGN. Discussion/Conclusion: Patients with diabetic nephropathy and FGN have similar clinicopathologic presentations with a slowly progressive onset of kidney failure and proteinuria. In diabetic patients with fibrillary deposits under ultrastructural examination, concurrence of these disease entities must be considered. In this patient with remote HCV infection that was successfully treated years before, it is possible that in the absence of an FGN trigger, there was a loss of antigenicity with a loss of immunoglobulin staining. Therefore, we recommend DNAJB9 immunostaining for patients with remote HCV infection to avoid this diagnostic pitfall. Further studies are needed to determine the potential role of HCV infection in the initiation and etiopathogenesis of FGN.
Second-generation laryngeal mask airway as an alternative to endotracheal tube in prolonged laparoscopic abdominal surgery: a comparative analysis of intraoperative gas exchanges
Authors: Park Sukhee , Lee Ja Eun , Choi Gyu Sung , Kim Jong Man , Ko Justin Sangwook , Choi Duck Hwan , Kim Gaab Soo
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Laryngeal mask airway (LMA), which is used in difficult airway maintenance conditions during emergencies, is rarely used in prolonged surgery despite its advantages over endotracheal tube (ETT). In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of intraoperative gas exchanges between second-generation LMA and ETT during prolonged laparoscopic abdominal surgery.

Methods:

Prolonged surgery was defined as a surgery lasting more than 2 h. In total, 394 patients who underwent laparoscopic liver resection via either second-generation LMA or ETT were retrospectively analysed. The following parameters were compared between the two groups of patients: end-tidal pressure of carbon dioxide (ETCO2), tidal volume (TV), respiratory rate (RR), peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), pH and ratio of arterial partial pressure of oxygen to fractional inspired oxygen (PFR) during surgery. In addition, the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs), including pulmonary aspiration, was compared.

Results:

The values of ETCO2, TV, RR and PIP during pneumoperitoneum were comparable between the two groups. Although PaCO2 at 2 h after induction was higher in patients in the LMA group (40.5 vs. 38.5 mmHg, P < 0.001), the pH and PFR values of the two groups were comparable. The incidence of PPC was similar.

Conclusion:

During prolonged laparoscopic abdominal surgery, second-generation LMA facilitates adequate intraoperative gas exchange and may serve as an alternative to ETT.
Enforcing Social Control in Rural Myanmar: Identifying the Implementer in the Pa-O Self-Administered Zone
Authors: Yue Ricky Wai-Kay
Published: October 2021

The Pa-O National Organisation (pno) was the only pro-regime ethnic political party that managed to retain all its seats in the 2015 Myanmar election. Amid accusations of rampant land grabbing and faced strong competitions from political parties at the national, regional and local levels, how did the pno manage to secure the seats? Through quantitative analysis, the paper noted a statistically significant volatility in the turnover of village tract leaders (vtl s) in the township where resistance was strongest. This in turn suggested that the pno relied on the vtl s to enforce social control. There is a clear gap in existing literature on how social control is constructed at the local level. Applying the state-in-society theoretical framework by Migdal, this paper aims to identify the ‘implementer’ in the crucial process of social control in the Pa-O saz, thereby helping to shed light on how local politics work.
Incoming Veterinary Students’ Perspectives on Animal Welfare: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Dolby Nadine
Published: October 2021

Animal welfare is an increasingly important component of veterinary medicine. While the AVMA Model Animal Welfare Curriculum is not required, there is growing research that examines veterinary students’ understanding of animal welfare and moral and ethical responsibility to animals. However, there is limited research that investigates incoming veterinary students’ perspectives on animal welfare: a significant pedagogical gap, as successful curriculum interventions take into account students’ pre-existing experiences. This study investigates this gap in the literature through a qualitative, interview-based study of twenty incoming veterinary students at an accredited veterinary college. Four themes are identified in the data: formative childhood experiences; pre-professional experiences in the field; public conversations in the media/ social media; and academic definitions memorized for admission interviews. In conclusion, I draw on the field of narrative medicine to discuss how students’ stories are important to understanding the curriculum and pedagogy of animal welfare in veterinary education.
New taxa and new records of butterflies from Vietnam (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) 
Authors: MONASTYRSKII ALEXANDER L. , VAN LIEN VU
Published: October 2021

A new species and eight new subspecies of Papilionoidea discovered in Vietnam between 2002 and 2020 are described and illustrated. The status of two taxa are revised. New taxa include Pieridae: Delias sanaca bidoupa Monastyrskii & Vu subspec. nov. and Talbotia naganum aurelia Monastyrskii & Vu subspec. nov.; Nymphalidae: Abrota ganga pulcheria Monastyrskii & Vu, subspec. nov.; Bassarona recta consonensis Monastyrskii & Vu, subspec. nov.; Pantoporia bieti aurantina Monastyrskii & To subspec. nov.; Ragadia latifasciata cristata Monastyrskii & Vu, subspec. nov.; Ragadia latifasciata crystallina Monastyrskii & Vu, subspec. nov.; Faunis indistincta luctus Monastyrskii & Vu subspec. nov. & Aemona gialaica Monastyrskii, K. Saito & Vu, spec. nov. The taxon infuscata Devyatkin & Monastyrskii, previously described as the subspecies Aemona tonkinensis infuscata, was elevated to the species level, while the taxon critias (Ragadia critias Riley & Godfrey) was reduced to a subspecies. Three Satyrinae species were recorded from Vietnam for the first time: Palaeonympha opalina Butler, 1871; Ypthima motschulskyi Bremer & Grey, 1853; and Ragadia latifasciata Leech, 1891.
The odd one in: re-diagnosis and phylogenetic placement of the Assam Day Gecko, Cnemaspis assamensis Das & Sengupta 2000 (Squamata: Gekkonidae)
Authors: SENGUPTA SHRUTI , PURAKAYASTA JAYADITYA , ANANDAN NITESH , DAS MADHURIMA , CHAN KIN ONN , MURTHY CHANNAKESAVA
Published: October 2021

Herein we provide new information on Cnemaspis assamensis, the only species of Cnemaspis known from north-eastern India.  Based on five new samples, morphological parameters are described. The species was found to have pre-cloacal and femoral pores, not accounted for in the original description. Genetic assessment of the species was made using a 914 bp fragment of the ND2 mitochondrial gene and the species was recovered as the sister taxon of the C. podihuna clade from Sri Lanka.
Machine learning classification of significant tornadoes and hail in the U.S. using ERA5 proximity soundings
Authors: Gensini Vittorio A. , Converse Cody , Ashley Walker S. , Taszarek Mateusz
Published: October 2021

Previous studies have identified environmental characteristics that skillfully discriminate between severe and significant-severe weather events, but they have largely been limited by sample size and/or population of predictor variables. Given the heightened societal impacts of significant-severe weather, this topic was revisited using over 150 000 ERA5 reanalysis-derived vertical profiles extracted at the grid-point nearest—and just prior to—tornado and hail reports during the period 1996–2019. Profiles were quality-controlled and used to calculate 84 variables. Several machine learning classification algorithms were trained, tested, and cross-validated on these data to assess skill in predicting severe or significant-severe reports for tornadoes and hail. Random forest classification outperformed all tested methods as measured by cross-validated critical success index scores and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values. In addition, random forest classification was found to be more reliable than other methods and exhibited negligible frequency bias. The top three most important random forest classification variables for tornadoes were wind speed at 500 hPa, wind speed at 850 hPa, and 0–500-m storm-relative helicity. For hail, storm-relative helicity in the 3–6 km and -10 to -30 °C layers, along with 0–6-km bulk wind shear, were found to be most important. A game theoretic approach was used to help explain the output of the random forest classifiers and establish critical feature thresholds for operational nowcasting and forecasting. A use case of spatial applicability of the random forest model is also presented, demonstrating the potential utility for operational forecasting. Overall, this research supports a growing number of weather and climate studies finding admirable skill in random forest classification applications.
Using Cultural Consensus Analysis to Measure Diversity in Social–Ecological Knowledge for Inclusive Climate Adaptation Planning
Authors: Miller Hesed Christine D. , Paolisso Michael , Van Dolah Elizabeth R. , Johnson Katherine J.
Published: October 2021

Climate adaptation is context specific, and inclusion of diverse forms of knowledge is crucial for developing resilient social–ecological systems. Emphasis on local inclusion is increasing, yet participatory approaches often fall short of facilitating meaningful engagement of diverse forms of knowledge. A central challenge is the lack of a comprehensive and comparative understanding of the social–ecological knowledge that various stakeholders use to inform adaptation decisions. We employed cultural consensus analysis to quantitatively measure and compare social–ecological knowledge within and across three stakeholder groups: government employees, researchers, and local residents in rural coastal Maryland. The results show that 1) local residents placed more emphasis on addressing socioeconomic and cultural changes than researchers and government employees, and 2) that the greatest variation in social–ecological knowledge was found among local residents. These insights yielded by cultural consensus analysis are beneficial for facilitating more inclusive adaptation planning for resilient social–ecological systems.
Understanding the complexity of domestic violence service delivery through the lived experiences of domestic violence advocates
Authors: Choi Ga-Young , An Soonok , Cho Hyungak , Koh Eun
Published: October 2021

This qualitative research explored the lived experiences of domestic violence advocates to better understand the elements involved in domestic violence service delivery in the United States, focusing on positive and challenging aspects of their work. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 advocates who assisted domestic violence survivors. Advocates’ persistent engagement in reflective practice and advocacy for the survivors against a victim-blaming culture were identified as important elements in delivering multi-faceted domestic violence services. Implications for social work and domestic violence practice in improving domestic violence service delivery for the survivors are discussed.
COVID-19 Vaccination: To Lead by Example or an Opportunity Lost
Authors: Wolff M.S. , Glick M.
Published: October 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created a global health emergency. Vaccine hesitancy and tremendous misinformation about the actual science are leaving the public with significant confusion. However, sound epidemiologic science is guiding us to a clear path toward mitigating this modern-day scourge. It is remarkable how putting an end to current COVID-19 outbreaks has such a simple solution—convincing the public to accept getting vaccinated. The dental research, dental education, and dental practice communities have a unique opportunity to act as trusted public exemplars as well as trusted interpreters of the science for the public.
Unravelling the Relation Between Fear of Missing Out, Time Spent on the Phone, Sex, Alienation, and Nomophobia
Authors: Ergin Zeynep Oznur , Ozer Arif
Published: October 2021

The prevalence of nomophobia is growing among adolescents. This study aimed to disentangle the relationship between nomophobia, the fear of missing out, time spent on the phone, sex, and social alienation. Participants, who were 595 students (313 females and 282 males) attending high school during the 2019–2020 academic year, filled out personal information forms and a series of scales involving nomophobia, the fear of missing out, and social alienation. Then, data were analyzed through a moderated mediation analysis. The results showed that the bivariate correlation was significant but not the direct effect of gender on nomophobia; still, other direct effects were significant. The partial indirect effect of the fear of missing out on nomophobia was only significant for females when social alienation was controlled for. In the model where nomophobia was the outcome model, the power values for the time spent on the phone and its interaction with sex were low but high for other factors. Furthermore, the effect size was small for the model where the mediator was the outcome and high for the model that had nomophobia as the outcome. Thus, it is crucial to consider that the motives underlying the fear of missing out and nomophobia differ between the sexes in planning interventions.
Towards Relational Spatiality: Space, Relation and Simmel’s Modernity
Authors: Fu Yongxuan
Published: October 2021

By reconsidering Simmel’s concept of space, this article introduces space into the epistemological field of relational sociology to construct a relational spatiality based on relational sociology, demonstrating the continuity between spatial and relational approaches in the study of modernity. It first explains Simmel’s relational epistemology and the metropolis, and then constructs the relational spatiality vis-a-vis the two main viewpoints of contemporary relational sociology. Space is relational in nature because it is defined by iterative interactions between actors, which go beyond visible geographical cognition to sociologically express the living process people experience in fragmentary forms of social space. Furthermore, this relational spatiality, combined with Michel Foucault’s discourse, reveals the process attribute of space from the perspective of relational sociology, showing the possibility of a spatial epistemology based on relational sociology.
The effects of social housing regeneration schemes on employment: The case of the Glasgow Stock Transfer
Authors: Zhang Meng Le , Galster George , Manley David , Pryce Gwilym
Published: October 2021

Regeneration is an internationally popular policy for improving distressed neighbourhoods dominated by large social housing developments. Stimulating employment is often touted as a secondary benefit, but this claim has rarely been evaluated convincingly. In 2003, Glasgow City Council transferred ownership of its entire social housing stock to the Glasgow Housing Association and over £4 billion was invested in physical repairs, social services and other regeneration activities. Using a linked census database of individuals (Scottish Longitudinal Study), we evaluate the causal effect of the Stock Transfer on employment in Glasgow through a quasi-experimental design that exploits idiosyncrasies and changes in Glasgow’s administrative boundaries. We find that the Stock Transfer had a positive effect on employment for Glasgow residents who were not living in transferred social housing stock. We establish that this effect was mainly accomplished through the local employment multiplier effect of capital spending rather than through any other programmatic elements of the Stock Transfer. Exploratory analysis shows heterogeneous effects: individuals who were over 21, female, living with dependent children and with less education were less likely to benefit from the intervention. We did not find significant subgroup effects by neighbourhood deprivation.
The importance of perioperative and complication management in the treatment of pheochromocytoma crisis with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO): a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Jin Guangyong , Zhu Ying , Hu Wei , He Huadong , Wang Changrong , Cai Xueying
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

In this article, we aimed to elaborate on perioperative and complication management in treatment of pheochromocytoma crisis with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Material and methods:

We report a case of relatively rare grant paraganglioma-induced pheochromocytoma crisis leading to severe circulatory failure, treated with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) as a bridge to curative adrenalectomy. Weaning of ECMO was followed by successful surgical removal of the tumor, and patient survival. However, distal ischemia of the cannulated leg occurred during ECMO operation, which eventually led to amputation. In addition, the patient developed new cerebral infarction and left hemiplegia, half a month after paraganglioma resection.

Conclusions:

We believe that patients with pheochromocytoma crisis, who cannot maintain blood circulation, are eligible for V-A ECMO treatment. Moreover, care should be taken to prevent thrombosis and individualized and precise blood pressure management targets. Early detection and treatment of thrombosis is imperative to long-term prognosis of patients with ECMO.
Extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation and emergency C-section for a pregnant COVID-19 positive patient
Authors: Quintero Alejandro , Vinck Eric E , Pérez Luz E , Escobar José J , Rendón Juan C , Uribe Juan D
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Data on extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy for pregnant patients with Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infection are limited. Here we report a case of an emergency cesarean section performed while the COVID-19 positive mother was on ECMO support.

Case report:

A 36-year-old COVID-19 positive patient at 26 weeks gestational age presented with respiratory failure requiring extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation therapy. Nine days later fetal distress demanded an emergency C-section. After 5 weeks on ECMO, the patient was weaned off. Both mother and child were discharged.

Discussion:

The decision to perform an urgent C-section is one that requires meticulous thought from the attending team. Pulmonary maturation is key as pregnancy may need to be terminated at any time during ECMO.

Conclusion:

Data on ECMO support for pregnant patients with COVID-19 infection are scarce. Best results can be achieved ensuring adequate anticoagulation, meticulous choice of cannulas, continued fetal monitoring, early lung maturation, and precision timing of delivery.
Procainamide pharmacokinetics during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Vollmer Nicholas J , Wittwer Erica D , Rosenbaum Andrew N , Wieruszewski Patrick M
Published: October 2021

Procainamide is a useful agent for management of ventricular arrhythmia, however its disposition and appropriate dosing during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is unknown. We report experience with continuous procainamide infusion in a critically ill adult requiring venoarterial ECMO for incessant ventricular tachycardia. Pharmacokinetic analysis of procainamide and its metabolite, N-acetylprocainamide (NAPA), was performed using serum and urine specimens. Kidney function was preserved, and sequencing of the N-acetyltransferase 2 gene revealed the patient was a phenotypic slow acetylator. Procainamide volume of distribution and half-life were calculated and found to be similar to healthy individuals. However, despite elevated serum procainamide concentrations, NAPA concentrations remained far lower in the serum and urine. The magnitude of procainamide and NAPA discordance suggested alternative contributors to the deranged pharmacokinetic profile, and we hypothesized NAPA sequestration by the ECMO circuit. Ultimately, the patient received orthotopic cardiac transplantation and was discharged home in stable condition. Procainamide should be used cautiously during ECMO, with close therapeutic drug monitoring of serum procainamide and NAPA concentrations. The achievement of therapeutic NAPA concentrations while maintaining safe serum procainamide concentrations during ECMO support may be challenging.
Andy’s Facial Growth Indicator
Authors: Ambekar Anand , Warpe Smita Raosaheb , Zadake Sujit Navnath
Published: October 2021

Facial growth indicator line was originally developed by Dr John RC Mew. Dr Mew discloses a facial growth indicator in his textbook, Bioblock Therapy published in Great Britain by Dr Mew. The indicator line—this is defined as the distance from the tip of the nose to the incisal edge of the lowest upper central incisor. Andy’s facial growth indicator is a modification of facial growth indicator, which was originally developed by Dr Mew.
Navigating complex authorities: Intellectual freedom, information literacy and truth in pandemic STEM information
Authors: Mercer Kate , Weaver Kari D , Waked Khrystine
Published: October 2021

Traversing scientific information has become increasingly fraught, as the new information landscape allows anyone to access endless information with a few keystrokes. However, those trying to find information, understand authorities and navigate experts need a deeper understanding not only of the information itself, but also of how and why information is shared. Increasingly, questions of expertise, locale and bias are driving the scientific information ecosystem and creating or expanding disinformation, misinformation and propaganda efforts. Librarians are in the centre of this maelstrom of information and are obligated to help people learn to be critical of information. This article presents an illustrative case study, using the example of scientific information around the safety and efficacy of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to demonstrate how modern scientific information sharing is shaped by the ways in which misinformation and fake news spread.
Effect of loading rates on the in-plane compressive properties of additively manufactured ABS and PLA-based hexagonal honeycomb structures
Authors: Joseph Athul , Mahesh Vishwas , Mahesh Vinyas
Published: October 2021

Honeycomb structures find numerous applications in automotive, aerospace, sports, and other similar engineering fields. Such incorporation is made possible by the excellent crushing resistance and specific energy absorption capabilities. However, manufacturing such structures through conventional processes is highly laborious and expensive. Such a drawback can be largely mitigated by the adoption of additive manufacturing (AM) processes. Consequently, in this study, hexagonal honeycomb structures are subjected to experimental tests to determine their compressive strength under different loading rates. In addition to this, attempts have also been made to evaluate the effect of different materials and the unit cell dimensions on the compressive properties. The test specimens of different wall thicknesses are manufactured by fused deposition modelling (FDM) using PLA and ABS as the base materials. The samples are then subjected to compressive tests using a standard UTM to quantify the effect of the cell geometrical parameters and the loading rate on the overall compressive nature of the structures. The results show that the compression properties are primarily affected by the loading rate, material properties and the cell-wall thickness of the structures. The initial compressive yield stress and plateau stress generally increase up to a given value of loading rate, after which the strength decline. The cell-wall thickness of the structure influences the threshold loading rate. Therefore, this study provides a preliminary understanding of the compressive properties of AM hexagonal honeycomb structures to analyse the prospects for application in real-world engineering applications. It is proposed that such structures find profound applications in structural components of aerospace equipment, automotive parts, sports gear, and other similar areas of interest where high strength and energy absorption are of predominant importance.
Principal Perceptions of the Distance Learning Transition During the Pandemic
Authors: DeMatthews David , Reyes Pedro , Solis Rodriguez Janet , Knight David
Published: October 2021

Drawing on data from the RAND American School Leader Panel 2020 COVID-19 Distance Learning Surveys, we analyze principal perceptions of school preparedness for distance learning with a specific focus on how different school types (e.g., rural, urban, and suburban) and student groups (e.g., students with mild disabilities, English learner students) were impacted by rapid school closure. These findings have important implications for how state education agencies, policymakers, and districts plan to address the growth of opportunity gaps among student groups. In addition, findings have important implications for education leadership and policy researchers seeking to design and implement studies to inform next generation policy and practice.
On the separation of executive and legislative powers: Executive independence, liberty, and social welfare
Authors: Fox Justin , Polborn Mattias
Published: October 2021

We explore the effects of a particular facet of separation of powers—namely, the executive’s independence from the legislature—on maintaining a norm of legislative restraint in which antagonistic factions refrain from passing laws that infringe on their rival’s liberties. Our main result establishes that executive independence may sometimes undermine and at other times facilitate legislative restraint, depending on the probabilities with which the factions hold legislative and executive power. Our results contribute to the larger game-theoretic literature exploring the effects of political institutions; our results also contribute to the literature exploring how institutions designed to protect liberty affect tacit cooperation among rival factions.
Research on the vibration model and vibration performance of cold orbital forging machines
Authors: Hua Lin , Chen Mingzhang , Han Xinghui , Zhang Xuancheng , Zheng Fangyan , Zhuang Wuhao
Published: October 2021

The vibration of cold orbital forging (COF) machines is a major issue for the quality of forging parts. It is therefore necessary to investigate the vibration of COF machines and provide some effective methods for reducing the vibration. In this paper, horizontal and vertical dynamic models of COF machines are established. These dynamic models are then effectively verified by conducting experiments. By using dynamic models of the COF machine, the vibration performance of the COF machine is investigated. To investigate methods for reducing the vibration of the COF machine, the effects of some key parameters on the vibration of the COF machine are studied, which include the eccentricities and rotation angular speeds of the inner eccentricity ring and the outer eccentricity ring, the amplitude and frequency of external excitation, and the equivalent stiffness and equivalent damping between swing shaft and bearing. Investigative conclusions can be drawn: During the COF process, vertical vibration is more drastic than horizontal vibration. A larger absolute difference between the eccentricities of the inner eccentricity ring and the outer eccentricity ring contributes to reducing the horizontal vibration of the COF machine. A larger equivalent stiffness and a larger equivalent damping between the swing shaft and bearing, a smaller amplitude and a smaller frequency of the external excitation contribute to reducing the vertical vibration of the COF machine.
Temperature Distribution Simulation, Prediction and Sensitivity Analysis of Orthogonal Cutting of Cortical Bone
Authors: Wang Quanwei , Tian Heqiang , Dang Xiaoqing , Pan Jingbo , Gao Yu , Xu Qian , Lin Zhe , Yao Yanan
Published: October 2021

Bone cutting plays an important role in spine surgical operations. The power devices with high speed employing in bone cutting usually leads to high cutting temperature of the bone tissue. This high temperature control is important in improving cutting surface quality and optimizing the cutting parameters. In this paper, the bone-cutting model was appropriately simplified for finite element (FE) based modeling of 2D orthogonal cutting to discuss the change law of cutting temperature of cortical bones for cervical vertebra, and to study the orthogonal cutting mechanism of the anisotropic cortical bone, a 3D FE simulation model had been also established in which longitudinal, vertical, and transversal cutting types were accomplished to investigate the effect of osteons orientation. Secondly, this response surface method was used to regress the simulation results, and establishes the prediction model of maximum temperature on cutting depth, cutting speed, and feed speed. Then, the Sobol method was used to analyze the sensitivity of the milling temperature prediction mathematical model parameters, in order to clarify and quantitatively analyze the influence of input milling parameters on the output milling temperature. Finally, the cutting temperatures obtained with the simulations were compared with the corresponding experimental results obtained from the bone milling tests. This study verifies the influence of key variables and the cutting parameters on thermo mechanical behavior of the bone cutting. The obtained cutting temperature distribution for the bone surfaces could be employed to establish a theoretical foundation for research on thermal damage control of bone tissues.
Impact of Board Diversity on Agency Costs in the Context of Agency Theory Approach: Evidence From Listed Companies in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rooly M. S. A. Riyad
Published: October 2021

Effective corporate governance leads the way towards aligning the interest between managers and shareholders. Effectiveness of practicing the corporate governance of companies in Sri Lanka is debatable topic due to the variation between standard and actual practices. This study aims to examine the influence of board diversity on agency costs of companies listed in Sri Lanka as proposed by agency theory. The sample of this research consists of all companies listed in Sri Lanka, exclusive of bank and financial institutions which are practicing unique governance practices issued by Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The final sample consists of 180 companies during the period from 2013 to 2019. This study deployed panel regression analysis to test the relationship formulated in the hypotheses by using the EViews 9 software. The results showed that the board diversity-related variables such as separate leadership structure and presence of non-executive director on companies’ board are appeared to have significant influence on agency costs. Meanwhile, board size does not have direct impact on agency costs. The findings of this study regarding board diversity and agency costs have important managerial implications, that these findings are unlikely to the prediction of agency theory and best practices. Agency theory is not applicable to these companies, since the exiting corporate governance practices increase agency costs. The potential benefits of this study led to re-think the board of directors of the companies, managers, shareholder and the policymakers to re-organise the implementation of best practices.
Environmental Flow Estimation of Brunei River Based on Climate Change
Authors: Shams Shahriar , Reza Md Sumon , Azad Abul Kalam , Juani Rozeana Binti Hj. Md. , Fazal Mohammad Abul
Published: October 2021

The concept of environmental flows and its application and enforcement is a main challenge in several developing countries. The services and benefits derived from the ecosystem are indispensable for sustaining the livelihood of people particularly living in coastal areas. Decision-makers often ignore ecosystems when referring to water allocation, as the supporters of ecosystems are less vocal as compared to other stakeholders. This study focuses on establishing guidelines for maintaining the minimum amount of flow known as environmental flow of Brunei River in Brunei Darussalam for the sustainability of its rich ecosystem. In this study, the flow of the river was simulated based on land use, climate change, and potential growth of industries using a Water Evaluation and Planning System as a computing tool. The study finds that the months of March and June (1.48 and 3.92 m3/s) are more vulnerable to low flow. It recommends a threshold value of 2.7 m3/s for the environmental flow of Brunei River essential to preserve its rich and diversified ecosystem.
Understanding Early Pregnancies: Sociocultural Factors of Teenage Childbearing in Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Kgosiemang Tebo , Motzafi-Haller Pnina
Published: October 2021

The potential risk of being exposed to HIV/AIDS has structured the ways teenage or out-of-wedlock pregnancies are studied and treated in Botswana. We used feminist ethnographic research methods which focus on the narratives of young women and their social networks to understand this phenomenon. Looking at the issue from the adolescent girls’ perspective reveals that such pregnancies have always existed, and their continued existence can be attributed to local sociocultural perceptions of fertility, pregnancy, and marriage. We show that the young mothers continue with their lives without being labeled as social outcasts and that they are supported by family networks. Social policies intended to provide health services need to restructure those services based on a culturally sensitive model outlined in this article.
Metaphoric Perceptions of Covid-19 Patients Related to the Disease
Authors: Cakmak Betul , Calik Afra , Inkaya Bahar Vardar
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to explore metaphoric perceptions of patients with COVID-19 including treatment process, family relationships, and mental health via using metaphors. Purposive sampling was used to include participants. Totally 46 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were included in the study. The metaphor-based data collection process was carried out with three open-ended questions. The metaphors compiled according to questions and grouped by 13 themes according to analysis. Patients explained to COVID-19 process by using 91 different metaphors. Most frequently used metaphors by patients; black hole/dark for the treatment process of COVID-19, steel for family relationships, sea metaphor for mental health. This study, it was determined that individuals are afraid of death, have a serious perception of uncertainty, and their family relationships and this process negatively affected their family relationships and mental states. Nurses have important responsibilities to increase the quality of patient care.
Undifferentiated Melanoma Resembling Undifferentiated Round Cell Sarcoma: The Diagnostic Power of Molecular Melanoma Signature
Authors: Kavuncuoglu Altan , Durmaz Ceren Damla , Gokoz Ozay , Uner Aysegul , Kosemehmetoglu Kemal
Published: October 2021

Melanomas presenting in primary or metastatic sites with a poorly differentiated histology comprise dedifferentiated (DM) and undifferentiated melanomas (UM), the latter consisting purely of undifferentiated cells and totally lacking immunophenotypic features of melanoma. These entities have a wide morphological spectrum including round cell sarcoma-like features which pose a significant diagnostic challenge. Here we present a case of UM with morphological and immunohistochemical features resembling undifferentiated round cell sarcoma, whose diagnosis could only be established after proper integration of clinical and molecular data. This diagnostically challenging case, fulfilling the previously proposed diagnostic criteria by Agaimy et al, expands the clinicopathological spectrum of DM/UM, highlights the essence of molecular signature, and further emphasizes the importance of patient’s history in any morphological setting.
The Gambling Disorders Identification Test (GDIT): Psychometric Evaluation of a New Comprehensive Measure for Gambling Disorder and Problem Gambling
Authors: Molander Olof , Wennberg Peter , Berman Anne H
Published: October 2021

The novel gambling disorder identification test (GDIT) was recently developed in an international Delphi and consensus process. In this first psychometric evaluation, gamblers ( N = 603) were recruited from treatment- and support-seeking contexts ( n = 79 and n = 185), self-help groups ( n = 47), and a population sample ( n = 292). Participants completed self-report measures, a GDIT retest ( n = 499), as well as diagnostic semistructured interviews assessing gambling disorder (GD; n = 203). The GDIT showed excellent internal consistency reliability (α = .94) and test–retest reliability (6-16 days, intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.93). Confirmatory factor analysis yielded factor loadings supporting the three proposed GDIT domains of gambling behavior, gambling symptoms, and negative consequences. Receiver operator curves and clinical significance indicators were used to estimate GDIT cut-off scores in relation to recreational (<15) and problem gambling (15-19), any GD (≥20), mild GD (20-24), moderate GD (25-29), and severe GD (≥30). The GDIT can be considered a valid and reliable measure to identify and predict GD severity, as well as problem gambling. In addition, the GDIT improves content validity in relation to an international research agreement concerning features of gambling outcome measures, known as the Banff Consensus Agreement.
The Development of an Early Intervention for Supporting Families of Persons With Acquired Brain Injuries: The SAFIR© Intervention
Authors: de Goumoëns Véronique , Ayigah Koffi , Joye Daniel , Ryvlin Philippe , Ramelet Anne-Sylvie
Published: October 2021

Families of persons with acquired brain injuries need to be supported from the early phase of hospitalization. To date, no known early family intervention is available for this population. Using the Medical Research Council Framework, we developed a new intervention based on the Calgary Assessment and Intervention Models that includes the family preferences, clinician’s expertise, and the contextual resources. This paper aims to describe the complete development process including a scoping review, an assessment of families and clinicians’ needs, an evaluation of the contextual resources, and an adaptation of the theoretical framework. Using a systemic perspective, we tailored the new intervention to involve the stakeholder’s preferences. The result is an early family intervention named SAFIR©, led by a clinical nurse specialist, including five core components and structured around three phases and a follow-up. The next steps will be focused on assessment of the clinical feasibility of this new intervention.
One-year outcome of cystoid macular degeneration in central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Kumar Sahoo Niroj , Lupidi Marco , Goud Abhilash , Gangakhedkar Sankeert , Cardillo Piccolino Felice , Chhablani Jay
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To study structural and functional outcomes of cystoid macular degeneration (CMD) in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).

Methods:

This retrospective study included 26 eyes having chronic CSCR with CMD who underwent either observation, photodynamic therapy (PDT), micropulse laser, or eplerenone therapy. Various optical coherence tomography parameters were analyzed at baseline and 1 year.

Results:

Number of eyes that maintained or gained vision after treatment was 63.1%, compared to a loss of 2.1 ± 1.1 lines in observation group. Sub-foveal large choroidal vessel responded to PDT ( p = 0.03); while CMT ( p = 0.035) and intra-retinal cystoid spaces (0.037) responded to eplerenone. Longer duration of the symptoms and round cystoid spaces were associated with a decrease in CMT ( p = 0.03) and decrease in cystoid spaces size ( p = 0.02) respectively on follow up.

Conclusion:

Treatment of eyes with CMD prevents further deterioration of vision. Round configuration of intra-retinal cystoid space has a better anatomical outcome.
Occupational Contact Dermatitis in Employees of Large-Scale Narcotic Crop Farms of Ethiopia: Prevalence and Risk Factors. A Self-Reported Study Using the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire
Authors: Tamene Aiggan
Published: October 2021

Background:

Occupational skin diseases are the second leading occupational disease, accounting for almost 25% of all missed workdays. Occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) accounts for 70% to 90% of all skin disorders in the workplace. Only a few occupational epidemiology studies have looked into the prevalence and risk factors of occupation-induced dermatitis among narcotic crop farm workers around the world. Related studies in Ethiopia are even fewer.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Dirashe district of Southern Ethiopia from March 23 to April 12, 2021. Data was collected using a standardized interviewer-administered questionnaire. The history of contact dermatitis was determined using the standardized Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire version 2002 (NOSQ-2002). A total of 578 farm laborers took part in the study, which was conducted using a systematic random sampling. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression were used to characterize the data and identify factors associated with occupational contact dermatitis.

Result:

The prevalence of self-reported occupational contact dermatitis in the past 12 months among workers of large-scale Khat farms was (AOR: 67.80%, 95% CI [61.00, 76.23]). In the multivariable regression, being older (AOR: 5.51, 95% CI [1.79, 7.24]), working as a bundle binder (AOR: 5.74, 95% CI [2.12, 15.55]), not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) (AOR: 2.50, 95% CI [1.64, 3.81]), and having poor knowledge of pesticides use, storage, and disposal methods (AOR: 2.50, 95% CI [1.64, 3.81]) were associated with occupational contact dermatitis.

Conclusion:

Contact dermatitis caused by work is very common among Khat farm laborers. Measures to promote safe practices and reduce exposure to hazards, such as removing expired and/or banned chemicals, purchasing alternative pesticides that meet legislative requirements, job rotation and routine training of staff on safe practices, increasing safety signage, and performing risk assessments, as well as improving the quantity and quality of institutional protective equipment supplies may thus contribute to the enhancement of safe work practices.
A critical examination of ageism in memes and the role of meme factories
Authors: Lee Si Yu , Hoh Jasmon WT
Published: October 2021

Memes and meme factories are increasingly the new fronts for ageism online. To address the lack of studies exploring memetic expressions of ageism, this study utilized multimodal discourse analysis to analyze 98 image macros from five meme factories in Singapore. Expressions of ageism were consistently found in how the meme visually and discursively portrayed older adults, and three ageist themes of infantilization, barbarization, and fetishization were identified. Memes that infantilized older adults often portrayed them as immature and illiterate despite their age and emphasized their dependence on others. Memes that barbarized older adults portrayed them as being uncultured or having inferior cultural tastes, while memes that fetishized older adults positioned them as an object of sexual fetish. The intersections of ageism with sexism, classism, and racism were also noted. Practical implications of these findings were discussed, and several recommendations were offered for meme factories to reduce visual ageism.