bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Union Coalitions and Strategic Framing: The Case of the Agricultural Advisory Panel for Wales
Authors: Gooberman Leon , Hauptmeier Marco
Published: March 2022

This article analyses the creation of a union coalition that introduced a new employment relations institution: the Agricultural Advisory Panel for Wales. Building on social movement theory, the article argues that the union’s strategic framing within a conducive political opportunity structure enabled the coalition to form and pursue its goals. The union engaged in a specific frame alignment strategy, frame bridging, to explore and mobilize intersections and shared interests between its own frame and those of its coalition partners. Frame bridging prompted actors to reverse their policy preferences and participate in the coalition, which was facilitated by a political opportunity structure formed from the political salience of the agricultural sector and pre-existing social ties in the ‘small state’ political economy of Wales. The article contributes to the literature by developing and extending the frame bridging concept as a process enabling union coalitions.
Large area fabrication of single micron features using two-photon polymerization with sub-nanosecond laser
Authors: Singh Gaganpreet , Mishra Deepak , Ramkumar Janakarajan , Anantha Ramakrishna Subramanian
Published: March 2022

Single micrometer-sized features were fabricated on ARN-4340 photoresist using a 3D additive technique of two-photon polymerization (TPP). An economic TPP setup capable of producing a large area was developed in the lab using a sub-nanosecond laser. The Photo-initiator (2, 4 Diethyl-9H-thioxanthen-9-one) with a large two-photon absorption cross-section was used to enhance the polymerization. It was theoretically determined that the dimensions of the polymerized features depend on the concentration of the photo-initiator. A novel image-based focusing technique was developed to achieve uniform microsized features on a large area. In the proposed TPP setup, the developed focusing technique was used to determine the area over the sample, which can be polymerized in one go. To demonstrate the capability of the developed setup, microstructures of about 1 µm width were fabricated over an area of 4 cm2. Further, the fabricated sample was used to develop a master mold of Polydimethylsiloxane, which can be used for a soft-lithography replication process. Also, the melt flow technique was explored to reduce the roughness in the fabricated structure. The multi-photon polymerization process using the sub-nanosecond laser is shown to be cost-effective and robust for large area microstructure fabrication.
A home-based exercise program during COVID-19 pandemic: Perceptions and acceptability of juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus and juvenile idiopathic arthritis adolescents.
Authors: Sieczkowska Sofia Mendes , Astley Camilla , Marques Isabela Gouveia , Iraha Amanda Yuri , Franco Tathiane Christine , Ihara Bianca Pires , Martins Lavorato Sofia Simão , Lindoso Livia , Demitrol Setoue Debora Narumi , Tanigava Nicolas Yamada , Campos Lucia Maria Arruda , Pereira Rosa Maria Rodrigues , Aikawa Nadia Emi , Roschel Hamilton , Queiroz Ligia Bruni , Polanczyk Guilherme V. , Silva Clovis Artur , Gualano Bruno
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To investigate the perceptions and acceptability of a home-based exercise intervention in systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) adolescent patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to explore the effects of the intervention on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), sleep quality, and mental health conditions parameters.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial of a 12-week, home-based exercise training program conducted between October and December 2020. During this period, social distancing measures were in place in Brazil to contain the spread of COVID-19. Adolescent patients diagnosed with JSLE and JIA participated in the study. Health-related qualitative and quantitative data were collected before and after the follow-up.

Results

21 JSLE patients and 30 JIA patients were analyzed. Six themes emerged from patients’ feedback: 1) Suitability of the home-based format; 2) Appropriate trainer supervision, 3) Motivators and facilitators for the program; 4) Barriers to the program; 5) Health benefits; 6) Patients’ suggestions to improve the program. Overall, data indicated that the intervention showed good acceptability and elicited improvements in the perceived HRQoL and fatigue in JIA and JSLE patients during the pandemic. However, further quantitative analyses with validated HRQoL, sleep quality, and mental health conditions instruments did not capture these benefits (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Our main findings based on in-depth qualitative assessments suggest that a home-based exercise training program was suitable and well-accepted by adolescents with JSLE and JIA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, adherence was not high, particularly among JIA patients, suggesting that facilitators and barriers identified in the current study should be explored to improve the quality of new home-based exercise programs implementation, particularly in a future emerging crisis.
The role of journalistic voice in communicating climate scepticism
Authors: Grien Angelina , MacNeil Robert
Published: March 2022

This brief study investigates the subtle ways that language can be used to subconsciously shape a reader’s opinions about climate science within conservative news texts. To do so, our study employed techniques from critical discourse analysis to highlight the role of ‘journalistic voice’ and consider the granular linguistic techniques these outlets may use to subliminally validate sceptical viewpoints, while casting doubt on those espousing the consensus position. We found that certain semantic structures used in conservative climate reporting can take an otherwise apolitical analysis of climate issues, and potentially guide readers to a reactionary conclusion. Our analysis arrived at this position after undertaking a critical discourse analysis of the ways in which sceptical and non-sceptical climate ‘experts’ have been framed by Australia’s largest conservative broadsheet newspaper, News Corp’s The Australian, in the period after it changed its official position on climate to one of accepting the consensus view.
Mental Health Status of Female Sex Workers Exposed to Violence in Yangon, Myanmar
Authors: Kanayama Yuki , Yamada Hiroyuki , Yoshikawa Kanako , Aung Kyaw Wai
Published: March 2022

Female sex workers (FSWs) are at considerable risk of developing mental disorders due to the potential for violence associated with their work. However, few studies have comprehensively investigated the types of violence and their impact on the mental health of FSWs. Using data collected from 403 FSWs in Yangon, Myanmar, we investigated how various types of violence perpetrated by clients, employers, and partners affect the severity of mental disorders (anxiety and depression) among FSWs. Our results indicate that economic violence perpetrated by clients and threats of violence from partners induce severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, sexual and economic violence perpetrated by employers results in severe symptoms of anxiety.
Total observed error, total allowable error, and QC rules for canine serum and urine cortisol achievable with the Immulite 2000 Xpi cortisol immunoassay
Authors: Korchia Jeremie , Freeman Kathleen P.
Published: March 2022

Determining a simple quality control (QC) rule for daily performance monitoring depends on the desired total allowable error (TEa) for the measurand. When no consensus TEa exists, the classical approach of QC rule validation cannot be used. Using the results of previous canine serum and urine cortisol validation studies on the Immulite 2000 Xpi, we applied a reverse engineering approach to QC rule determination, arbitrarily imposing sigma = 5, and determining the resulting TEa for the QC material (QCM; TEaQCM) and the resulting probability of error detection (Ped) for each QC rule. For the simple QC rule 12.5S with Ped = 0.96 and probability of false rejection (Pfr) = 0.03, the associated TEaQCM were 20% and 35% for serum and 28% and 24% for urine QCM1 and QCM2. If these levels of TEaQCM are acceptable for interpretation of patient sample results, then users can internally validate the 12.5S QC rule, provided that their QCM CVs and biases are similar to ours. Otherwise, more stringent QC rules can be validated by using a lower sigma to lower the TEaQCM. With spiked samples (relevant cortisol concentrations in the veterinary patient matrix) at 38.6 and 552 nmol/L of cortisol, TEaQCM at sigma = 5 were much higher (54% and 40% for serum; 90.3% and 42.8% for urine). Spiked samples generate TEa that is probably too high to be suitable for daily QC monitoring; however, it is crucial to verify spiked sample observed total error (TEo; 26% and 18% for serum, 60% and 30% for urine) < TEaQCM, and to use spiked sample TEo for patient result interpretation. In the absence of consensus TEa for cortisol in dogs, we suggest the use of a 12.5S rule, provided that users accept the associated level of TEaQCM also as clinical TEa for results interpretation.
Prevalence of Osteoporosis Among Iranian Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Eghbali Tayebeh , Abdi Kamel , Nazari Mahboubeh , Mohammadnejad Esmaeil , Gheshlagh Reza Ghanei
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease. It is considered the silent epidemic, with high prevalence after menopause, in the current time. Different studies conducted in Iran have reported different prevalence. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the overall prevalence of osteoporosis in Iranian postmenopausal women.

Methods:

The national scientific databases Scientific Information Database and MagIran and the international scientific databases PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched for related articles without any time limitation. The keywords osteopenia, osteoporosis, post menopause, OP, bone mineral density, and Iran along with their combinations were used in the search. The inconsistency in the data was examined using I2 test. The data were analyzed using the meta-analysis method and the random-effects model in Stata software, version 14.

Results:

The analysis of 26 articles with a sample size of 6735 showed that the prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia in Iranian postmenopausal women is, respectively, 33.70% (95% CI [confidence interval]: 22.68-44.73) and 47.60% (95% CI: 32.88-62.32). The pooled prevalence of osteoporosis in the spine and in the femur bone was 31.99% and 15.93%, respectively. Also, the prevalence of osteopenia in the spine and in the femur bone was 22.48% and 39.88%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are highly prevalent in Iranian postmenopausal women to the extent that one-third of women suffer from osteoporosis and nearly half of them suffer from osteopenia. It seems essential to teach a healthy lifestyle to these women to reduce the prevalence of these issues.
Effects of perceived value on satisfaction and revisit intention: Domestic vs. international tourists
Authors: Rasoolimanesh S. Mostafa , Iranmanesh Mohammad , Seyfi Siamak , Ari Ragavan Neethiahnanthan , Jaafar Mastura
Published: March 2022

Despite the availability of a considerable body of research examining large-scale hotels, small-scale accommodations like traditional guesthouses have been overlooked. Using the hierarchy of effects model, this paper seeks to investigate and compare the effects of perceived value dimensions (e.g. functional value, emotional value, and social value) on the satisfaction and revisit intentions of domestic and international tourists. Drawing upon quantitative data collected from guests of selected traditional guesthouses in the heritage city of Kashan, Iran, this study employed partial least squares, structural equation modelling, and multi-group analysis to test several research hypotheses. The findings of the study revealed significant differences in the effects of emotional and social values on satisfaction and the direct and indirect effects of social value on domestic and international tourists’ revisit intentions through satisfaction. The results, therefore, emphasised the importance of functional and emotional values for international tourists, with the social value being more important for enhancing the satisfaction and revisit intentions of domestic tourists. Significant theoretical contributions and practical implications are provided in the conclusion section of the study.
The sci-commodity sensibilities of performative Covid-19 face masking
Authors: Iqani Mehita
Published: March 2022

This article explores how extravagantly visible mask-wearing relates with consumer culture. Methodologically, three purposively chosen case studies of spectacular or performative mask-wearing are used to show what the face mask can teach us about consumer culture in a pandemic. First, a Daily Mail (UK) article in which an ‘elderly shopper’ is shamed for wearing a sanitary towel as a face mask is used to explore the politics of disposable commodities. Second, the multiplying portraits of people wearing masks archived under Instagram’s #MaskSelfie hashtag allows an examination of how consumer-citizenship is performed. Third, the presence of extremely expensive luxury designer masks, as evidenced by Rich Mnisi’s Swarovski-encrusted offering, is a base for considering how virtue signalling has become a platform for luxury branding. Building on these three examples, the argument is made that waste, selfies and luxury are modalities for a pandemic commodity politics that is layered over and into the scientific citizenship signalled by the wearing of face masks. Together these create what I call a ‘sci-commodity’ sensibility, in which the face mask as a technology has become integrated with the modalities of consumption. This has resonance with ongoing debates about the object, subject and brand in consumer culture.
Strong conceptual knowledge developed through home reading experiences prior to school
Authors: Raban Bridie
Published: March 2022

Studies of early reading in the home indicate the relevance of these experiences for young children’s later reading development when they start school. The study reported here followed twenty children through 2 years prior to starting school and assessed their reading progress at the start of school. Audio/tape-recordings of their home experiences were collected in some detail, at random during whole days and transcripts of the audio/tape-recordings were reviewed for instances of reading experiences. In addition, parent interviews reported activities with their children, including those not captured on the audio/tape-recordings and others that took place across different days not recorded. Strong relationships were found between measures of family interest in reading and their children’s reading development when they started school. It was also found that Socioeconomic Status (SES) of family background did not necessarily determine these children’s reading development. Those children who had the opportunity to form successful understandings about reading from their home experiences, arrived at school with strong conceptual frameworks that supported their continuing reading development.
Narrative Theater to Examine and Mitigate Anti-Black Racism Within Occupational Therapy
Authors: Wasmuth Sally , Milton Cierra , Pritchard Kevin , Johnson Khalilah R. , Wakeford Linn , Caldwell Breonna , Peak Kierra , Briggeman Lauren , Johnson Kelsey
Published: March 2022

Theater has long-standing roots in social justice and holds promise for reducing racist attitudes and behaviors. Objectives of this study were to (a) collect and theatrically portray narratives from Black occupational therapy students and practitioners to a national audience and (b) examine the impact of the theatrical performance on anti-Black racism among attendees. The Identity Development Evolution and Sharing (IDEAS) model guided translation of narratives into a filmed performance. Paired t-test of pre/post administration of the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–Stigma (AAQ-S) measured changes in stigma beliefs. Qualitative thematic analysis of an open-ended post-survey question elucidated experiences of the performance. The performance engendered significant decreases in stigma; qualitative data elucidated potential mechanisms of change. This study provides insight into experiences of anti-Black racism within occupational therapy and offers a promising means for occupational therapists to engage in anti-Black racism.
Second-degree branch structure blockchain expansion model
Authors: Liu Qiang , Song Baoyan , Wang Junlu
Published: March 2022

The blockchain runs in a complex topological network which is affected by the principle of consensus, and data storage between nodes needs to maintain global consistency in the entire network, which causes the data storage inefficient. At the same time, the information exchange between large-scale communication node groups leads to the problems of bandwidth expropriation and excessive network load. In response to these problems, this article proposes a second-degree branch structure blockchain expansion model. First, a ternary storage structure is established. Data use the way of fully integrated storage, multi-cell storage, and fully split storage, and data are classified and stored in parallel between the structures. Second, a second-degree branch chain model is constructed. The main chain forks into multiple sub-chains, and a free competition chain structure and a Z-type chain structure are defined; a two-way rotation mechanism is introduced to realize the integration and transition between chain structures. Finally, a set of malicious attacks is simulated to realize the security constraints of the blockchain, to verify the security of the second-degree branch chain model. Experiment shows that the second-degree branch structure expansion model proposed in this article has great advantages in data storage efficiency and network load.
Risk Factors for Loss of Reduction After Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Isolated Olecranon Fractures in Adults
Authors: Contreras Erik S. , Lynch Daniel J. , Hatef Sarah , Speeckaert Amy L. , Goyal Kanu S.
Published: March 2022

Background:

We sought to determine whether any relevant patient, fracture, surgical, or postoperative characteristics are associated with loss of reduction after plate fixation of isolated olecranon fractures in adults.

Methods:

Patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of an olecranon fracture at our institution over an 11-year period were analyzed. Electronic patient charts and radiographic images were reviewed to gather patient, fracture, surgical, and postoperative data. Statistical analysis to explore the differences between groups was performed.

Results:

Seven of 96 patients experienced a loss of fracture reduction diagnosed at a median of 19 days after their initial surgery (range: 4-116 days). The radiographic mode of failure of all patients who lost reduction was proximal migration of the proximal fracture fragment with or without implant failure. The group that lost reduction had a significantly smaller proximal fragment (14.2 vs 18.6 mm), a higher incidence of malreduction with a persistent articular step-off greater than 2 mm (6/7 vs 14/89), a greater distance between the most proximal screw and the olecranon tip (19.8 vs 13.5 mm), a higher proportion of constructs with screws placed outside of the primary plate (4/7 vs 14/89), and a higher proportion of patients that were not immobilized postoperatively (3/7 vs 8/89).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest anatomical reduction at the articular surface and adequate fixation of the proximal fragment are key factors in maintenance of reduction, with smaller proximal fragments being at higher risk for failure. A period of postoperative immobilization may decrease the risk of loss of reduction.
Researchers’ Perceptions About Methodological Innovations in Research Oriented to Social Impact: Citizen Evaluation of Social Impact
Authors: Soler-Gallart Marta , Flecha Ramon
Published: March 2022

Current scientific literature is outlining a profound and accelerated transformation in the relationships between qualitative methodologies of research, citizens, society and social theories. The evolution towards a more dialogic society has led to a less talked about methodological advancement: Citizen participation in the evaluation of the social impact of research. Social impact is a priority of the current scientific research programs that also emphasize co-creation. The co-creation of the evaluation of this social impact requires both, qualitative methodologies and innovation, in order to make them able to optimize the social impact of research. This study, aimed at presenting the first meta-analysis of such methodological innovation from researchers’ view, includes interviews with seven researchers conducting research with social impact. In order to contrast citizens’ voices, results from the interviews have been validated by seven citizens who have participated in the dialogic citizen evaluation of the social impact of research. Findings can be summarized in three main categories: first, that the participation of citizens in the evaluation of the social impact of research is possible when researchers develop their contributions within the international scientific community and by integrating the voices of citizens, which facilitates the identification of transformative realities, as well as of pseudoscientific theories that have negative consequences for society. Second, that such evaluation is grounded on dialogic interactions open to everyone and based on arguments rather than on power interactions. Third, that both citizens and researchers report impacts of participating in the dialogic evaluation of social impact, such as modifying the way in which interviews are conducted, demanding more scientific evidence, or transforming their professional practice and lives.
Control of a DC motor using feedback linearization and gray wolf optimization algorithm
Authors: Vesović Mitra , Jovanović Radiša , Trišović Nataša
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate nonlinear DC motor behavior and to control velocity as output variable. The linear model is designed, but as it is experimentally verified that it does not describe the system well enough it is replaced by the nonlinear one. System’s model has been obtained taking into account Coulomb and viscous friction in the firmly nonlinear environment. In the frame of the paper the dynamical analysis of the nonlinear feedback linearizing control is carried out. Furthermore, a metaheuristic optimization algorithm is set up for finding the coefficient of the proportional-integral feedback linearizing controller. For this purpose Gray wolf optimization technique is used. Moreover, after the introduction of the control law, analysis of the pole placement and stability of the system is establish. Optimized nonlinear control signal has been applied to the real object with simulated white noise and step signal as disturbances. Finally, for several desired output signals, responses with and without disruption are compared to illustrate the approach proposed in the paper. Experimental results obtained on the given system are provided and they verify nonlinear control robustness.
Single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the SLC17A9 and P2RY12 genes are significantly associated with phantom tooth pain
Authors: Soeda Moe , Ohka Seii , Nishizawa Daisuke , Hasegawa Junko , Nakayama Kyoko , Ebata Yuko , Fukuda Ken-ichi , Ikeda Kazutaka
Published: March 2022

Phantom tooth pain (PTP) is a rare and specific neuropathic pain that occurs after pulpectomy and tooth extraction, but its cause is not understood. We hypothesized that there is a genetic contribution to PTP. We focused on solute carrier family 17 member 9 (SLC17A9)/vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT) and purinergic receptor P2Y12 (P2RY12), both of which have been associated with neuropathic pain and pain transduction signaling in the trigeminal ganglion in rodents. We sought to corroborate these associations in humans. We investigated gene polymorphisms that contribute to PTP. We statistically examined the association between genetic polymorphisms and PTP vulnerability in 150 patients with orofacial pain, including PTP, and 500 healthy subjects. We found that the rs735055 polymorphism of the SLC17A9 gene and rs3732759 polymorphism of the P2RY12 gene were associated with the development of PTP. Carriers of the minor allele of rs735055 and individuals who were homozygous for the major allele of rs3732759 had a higher rate of PTP. Carriers of the minor allele of rs735055 reportedly had high SLC17A9 mRNA expression in the spinal cord, which may increase the storage and release of adenosine triphosphate. Individuals who were homozygous for the major allele of rs3732759 may have higher P2RY12 expression that is more active in microglia. Therefore, these carriers may be more susceptible to PTP. These results suggest that specific genetic polymorphisms of the SLC17A9 and P2RY12 genes are involved in PTP. This is the first report on genes that are associated with PTP in humans.
A CiteSpace-based analysis of the application of Critical Discourse Analysis in news discourse
Authors: Mu Junfang , Ma Rui
Published: March 2022

Critical Discourse Analysis/Studies has been applied in the study of news discourse for more than 30 years. In order to gain an in-depth understanding of the research in this field, this article uses the Web of Science core database to investigate their evolution and envision of the application of CDA/CDS in news discourse. Moreover, CiteSpace is employed to draw visualization maps of scientific knowledge of this field, hoping to provide the meaningful guidance for the later research. The results are as follows: (1) The diversification and multi-dimension of theoretical approaches and analytical methods is a highlight of CDA applied in news discourse; (2) Various theories of other disciplines combined with CDA have been embraced by news discourse such as journalism, ecology, politics, sociology, and cognitive psychology, which shows the advancement and diversification of interdisciplinary trends in news discourse; (3) The application of CDA in news discourse covers various research domains from people’s livelihood issues to national strategic issues; (4) The availability of emerging corpus analysis tools has helped the application of CDA in news discourse to spur on further (critical) discourse excursions with corpora, promoting the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the research advances in this field.
Sensitivity of DECT in ACL tears. A prospective study with arthroscopy as reference method
Authors: Björkman Ann-Sofi , Gauffin Håkan , Persson Anders , Koskinen Seppo K.
Published: March 2022

Background

CT is often used for fracture evaluation following knee trauma and to diagnose ACL injuries would also be valuable.

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of dual energy CT (DECT) for detection of ACL tears in acute and subacute knee injuries.

Material and Methods

Patients with suspected ACL injury were imaged with DECT and MRI. Clinically blinded DECT images were independently read twice by two radiologists. ACL was classified as normal or abnormal. Arthroscopy served as reference method. Sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) were calculated, and diagnostic performance between DECT and MRI was assessed.

Results

48 patients (26 M, 22 F, mean age 23 years, range 15–37 years) were imaged with a mean of 25 days following trauma. Of these, 21 patients underwent arthroscopy with a mean of 195 days after trauma. Arthroscopy revealed 19 ACL tears and 2 ACLs with no tear. The combined sensitivity was 76.3% (95% CI 66.8–85.9) and 86.8 (95% CI 71.9–95.6) for DECT and MRI, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between these two methods ( p = .223). The positive predictive value (PPV) was 93.5 (95% CI 84.3–98.2) and 91.7 (95% CI 77.5–98.3) for DECT and MRI, respectively.

Conclusion

DECT has lower sensitivity to detect an ACL rupture than MRI, but the difference is not statistically significant. The PPV is high in both methods.
Multidisciplinary Innovation Adaptability of Campus Spatial Organization: From a Network Perspective
Authors: Xia Bing , Wu Kelei , Guo Peikun , Sun Yuan , Wu Jindong , Xu Jie , Wang Shifu
Published: March 2022

Campus spatial organization has potential impact on the multidisciplinary innovation (MDI). This research aims to establish an evaluation theory and a method for MDI adaptability of campus spatial organization. Based on the literature review, it first proposes theoretical assumptions regarding the correlation among MDI abilities, social networks, and spatiotemporal behaviors of individuals on campus. Then, data on the three aspects mentioned above was collected through online survey which was conducted from February 4th to March 15th, 2020. A total of 524 valid responses were obtained from 572 undergraduates and graduates of various majors in Zijingang Campus (East) of Zhejiang University. The correlation mechanism of these aspects was empirically analyzed by structural equation model (SEM). By integrating individual data, the research generated three overall networks whose nodes are linked according to spatial proximity, behavior routine, and disciplinary connection, respectively. Furthermore, an evaluation method is proposed for MDI adaptability of the campus spatial organization, which is based on the comparison of the structural similarity of the nodes in different networks. Accordingly, the evaluation results were validated by expert ratings and user satisfaction. Finally, design strategies for the renovation of an innovative campus are discussed.
Lip Wedge Resection with Orbicularis Oris Plication for Facial Paralysis: A Novel Technique
Authors: Frank Ethan , Bailey Traci , Lee Nathan H. , Cress Victoria , Kam Kelli , Inman Jared C.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Oral incompetence (OI) following facial nerve injury or sacrifice remains a frustrating problem for patients and clinicians alike. Dynamic procedures for facial paralysis often do not fully address OI and static surgeries are frequently needed. Current static options frequently involved multiple facial incisions. Methods: We describe a novel technique to address OI due to lower division facial nerve paralysis and report outcomes in an initial series of patients. Results: OI symptoms improved in 94% of patients following a single-stage surgery. Revision was required in one patient with subsequent resolution of symptoms. Major complications (19%) included persistent OI, wound dehiscence, and bothersome lip “bulk”. Conclusion: Lip wedge resection with orbicular oris plication resolves OI in facial paralysis patients with the added benefit of only a single incision on the face.
Polymyositis Presenting With Nontraumatic Rhabdomyolysis and Dysphagia: A Case Report
Authors: Aldrete Jonathan , Peterson Christopher J. , Tarbox James A. , Pixley John S.
Published: March 2022

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are a rare, heterogeneous group of diseases with a characteristic clinical presentation consisting of muscle inflammation and weakness. They often present with accompanying extra-muscular findings, most notably in the skin, lungs, and joints. Inflammatory myopathies are also identified by their characteristic laboratory abnormalities, including a 10- to 50-fold increase in creatinine kinase, elevated liver enzymes, and characteristic electromyography and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Distinct autoimmune markers and clinical phenotypes have advanced our understanding of IIMs and have led to the recognition of 5 distinct entities, each with its unique pathophysiology, autoimmune markers, and clinical features. While autoimmune panels and muscle biopsies help clinicians distinguish one entity from the other, their sensitivity and specificity vary. Of the various inflammatory myopathies, polymyositis remains the most elusive. Often, the diagnosis is ultimately made by combining clinical findings and laboratory data. As our case report illustrates, clinicians must use this constellation of data to initiate treatment for suspected polymyositis despite negative autoimmune panels and negative muscle biopsy.
Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation for Chondral Defects: Results Using an In Vivo Rabbit Model
Authors: Kato Yuki , Yanada Shinobu , Morikawa Hitoshi , Okada Takuya , Watanabe Masatoki , Takeuchi Shunsuke
Published: March 2022

Background:

Articular cartilage repair remains challenging despite the availability of techniques, including autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for repairing large cartilage defects. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, a novel therapy focused on chondrocyte regeneration, needs to be investigated regarding its potential to improve the outcomes of ACI.

Purpose:

To examine the effect of PRP therapy on the outcomes of cartilage repair using the ACI procedure in a rabbit model of knee joint cartilage damage.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 30 knees in 15 Japanese White rabbits (joint cartilage damage model) were divided into nontreatment (n = 7), PRP (n = 8), ACI (n = 7), and combined ACI and PRP (n = 8) groups. At 4 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively, histological and visual examination of the surgical site was performed, and the regenerated cartilage and calcified bone areas were measured by imaging the specimens.

Results:

Pretransplantation evaluation in the cultured cartilage showed the histological properties of hyaline cartilage. At 4 weeks postoperatively, the regenerated cartilage area at the surgical site showed a larger safranin O–positive area in the ACI group (2.73 ± 4.46 mm2) than in the combined ACI and PRP group (1.71 ± 2.04 mm2). Calcified bone formation in the ACI group was relatively lower than that in the other groups. Cartilage repair failure occurred in all groups at 12 weeks postoperatively.

Conclusion:

The authors found no positive effects of PRP on the outcomes of ACI in a rabbit model. There was a smaller safranin O–positive region with the addition of PRP to ACI compared with ACI alone. In the subchondral bone, bone formation might have been promoted by PRP.

Clinical Relevance:

Administering PRP at the time of ACI may not have a positive effect and may have deleterious effects on cartilage engraftment and regeneration.
A systems theoretic process analysis (STPA) approach for analyzing the governance structure of fecal sludge management in Japan
Authors: Bugalia Nikhil , Choudhury Surjyatapa R , Maemura Yu , Seetharam KE
Published: March 2022

Fecal sludge management (FSM) stakeholders have hitherto been unable to benefit from analytical approaches based on systems thinking principles, as studies utilizing theoretical frameworks to analyze governance structures remain in a nascent stage. One such prominent framework is the Systems Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA), which has no FSM-related applications in the literature. Relying on official documents such as ministerial ordinances, this study conducts a multistage STPA for a well-established and sustainable FSM system, that is, the Johkasou system in Japan. The analysis maps the key stakeholders and their interactions to comprehensively identify potential risks and corresponding novel indicators to help manage risks within the Johkasou system. The features of governance structure thus obtained also highlight the steps necessary to address governance issues for Japan and other countries attempting to establish sustainable FSM. The study extends the STPA literature by providing a substantial validity of STPA’s capability for analyzing the FSM governance structure against robust and independent criteria that define the objectives of a “good” governance structure, that is, efficiency, accountability, and legitimacy. The STPA results identify novel leading indicators to guide Japanese policymakers to improve FSM management. The results from STPA also effectively provide valuable insights for other countries by highlighting the various features contributing to an effective governance structure of the Johkasou, such as centralized decision-making in a combination of a hierarchy of goals to establish a clear division of responsibility across various actors. The study also notes potential challenges for field implementation of STPA and discusses directions that future work could explore.
PsyBuilder: An Open-Source, Cross-Platform Graphical Experiment Builder for Psychtoolbox With Built-In Performance Optimization
Authors: Lin Zhicheng , Yang Zhe , Feng Chengzhi , Zhang Yang
Published: March 2022

Psychtoolbox is among the most popular open-source software packages for stimulus presentation and response collection. It provides flexibility and power in the choice of stimuli and responses, in addition to precision in control and timing. However, Psychtoolbox requires coding in MATLAB (or its equivalent, e.g., Octave). Scripting is challenging to learn and can lead to timing inaccuracies unwittingly. It can also be time-consuming and error prone even for experienced users. We have developed the first general-purpose graphical experiment builder for Psychtoolbox, called PsyBuilder, for both new and experienced users. The builder allows users to graphically implement sophisticated experimental tasks through intuitive drag and drop without the need to script. The output codes have built-in optimized timing precision and come with detailed comments to facilitate customization. Because users can see exactly how the code changes in response to modifications in the graphical interface, PsyBuilder can also bolster the understanding of programming in ways that were not previously possible. In this tutorial, we first describe its interface, then walk the reader through the graphical building process using a concrete experiment, and finally address important issues from the perspective of potential adopters.
Globalization of Competition: The Global Rule of Three and the New Triad Power
Authors: Sheth Jagdish N. , Uslay Can , Sisodia Rajendra S.
Published: March 2022

In this article, the authors provide an overview of the Global Rule of Three. Competitive markets grow, consolidate, and mature, ultimately leading to the emergence of three full-line generalists. The financial performance of full-line generalists gradually improves with greater market share, while the performance of specialists drops off rapidly as their market share increases. Businesses that lack the scale and scope advantages of generalists, and the focus and service advantages of specialists get stuck in between—in the ditch range. The Rule of Three structure generates optimal operational efficiency in competitive markets and positive impact on all stakeholders. It represents an empirical reality that must be factored into the strategy of businesses of all sizes. Competitive markets evolve in a predictable fashion across industries, and they go through similar lifecycles. Many generalists that are dominant in their countries or regions are unable to exert the same leadership when the market globalizes. Each century has been marked by the successes of different regions and cultures. The old triad power which consisted of Western Europe, North America, and Japan is being replaced by America, China, and India. The new triad power comes with possible problems, especially between China and the US. Their differences will inevitably create tensions, and India will increasingly become a more strategic partner to both. Increasing demand for the world’s limited resources will necessitate resource-driven global expansion for enterprises and nations, further transforming the way business is conducted in the 21st century.
Genetic variants of PKLR are associated with acute pain in sickle cell disease
Authors: Wang Xunde , Gardner Kate , Tegegn Mickias B. , Dalgard Clifton L. , Alba Camille , Menzel Stephan , Patel Hamel , Pirooznia Mehdi , Fu Yi-Ping , Seifuddin Fayaz T. , Thein Swee Lay
Published: March 2022

Acute pain, the most prominent complication of sickle cell disease (SCD), results from vaso-occlusion triggered by sickling of deoxygenated red blood cells (RBCs). Concentration of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) in RBCs promotes deoxygenation by preferentially binding to the low-affinity T conformation of HbS. 2,3-DPG is an intermediate substrate in the glycolytic pathway in which pyruvate kinase (gene PKLR, protein PKR) is a rate-limiting enzyme; variants in PKLR may affect PKR activity, 2,3-DPG levels in RBCs, RBC sickling, and acute pain episodes (APEs). We performed a candidate gene association study using 2 cohorts: 242 adult SCD-HbSS patients and 977 children with SCD-HbSS or SCD-HbSβ0 thalassemia. Seven of 47 PKLR variants evaluated in the adult cohort were associated with hospitalization: intron 4, rs2071053; intron 2, rs8177970, rs116244351, rs114455416, rs12741350, rs3020781, and rs8177964. All 7 variants showed consistent effect directions in both cohorts and remained significant in weighted Fisher's meta-analyses of the adult and pediatric cohorts using P < .0071 as threshold to correct for multiple testing. Allele-specific expression analyses in an independent cohort of 52 SCD adults showed that the intronic variants are likely to influence APE by affecting expression of PKLR, although the causal variant and mechanism are not defined.
Age and body mass index affect fit of spirometry Global Lung Function Initiative references in schoolchildren
Authors: Mozun Rebeca , Ardura-Garcia Cristina , Pedersen Eva S.L. , Usemann Jakob , Singer Florian , Latzin Philipp , Moeller Alexander , Kuehni Claudia E.
Published: March 2022

Background

References from the Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) are widely used to interpret children's spirometry results. We assessed fit for healthy schoolchildren.

Methods

LuftiBus in the School was a population-based cross-sectional study undertaken in 2013–2016 in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland. Parents and their children aged 6–17 years answered questionnaires about respiratory symptoms and lifestyle. Children underwent spirometry in a mobile lung function lab. We calculated GLI-based z-scores for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC and forced expiratory flow for 25–75% of FVC (FEF25–75) for healthy White participants. We defined appropriate fit to GLI references by mean values between +0.5 and −0.5 z-scores. We assessed whether fit varied by age, body mass index, height and sex using linear regression models.

Results

We analysed data from 2036 children with valid FEV1measurements, of whom 1762 also had valid FVC measurements. The median age was 12.2 years. Fit was appropriate for children aged 6–11 years for all indices. In adolescents aged 12–17 years, fit was appropriate for FEV1/FVC z-scores (mean±sd−0.09±1.02), but not for FEV1(−0.62±0.98), FVC (−0.60±0.98) and FEF25–75(−0.54±1.02). Mean FEV1, FVC and FEF25–75z-scores fitted better in children considered overweight (−0.25, −0.13 and −0.38, respectively) than normal weight (−0.55, −0.50 and −0.55, respectively; p-trend <0.001, 0.014 and <0.001, respectively). FEV1, FVC and FEF25–75z-scores depended on both age and height (p-interaction 0.033, 0.019 and <0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

GLI-based FEV1, FVC, and FEF25–75z-scores do not fit White Swiss adolescents well. This should be considered when using reference equations for clinical decision-making, research and international comparison.
Complex mitogenomic rearrangements within the Pectinidae (Mollusca: Bivalvia)
Authors: Malkócs Tamás , Viricel Amélia , Becquet Vanessa , Evin Louise , Dubillot Emmanuel , Pante Eric
Published: March 2022

Background

Scallops (Bivalvia: Pectinidae) present extraordinary variance in both mitochondrial genome size, structure and content, even when compared to the extreme diversity documented within Mollusca and Bivalvia. In pectinids, mitogenome rearrangements involve protein coding and rRNA genes along with tRNAs, and different genome organization patterns can be observed even at the level of Tribes. Existing pectinid phylogenies fail to resolve some relationships in the family, Chlamydinae being an especially problematic group.

Results

In our study, we sequenced, annotated and characterized the mitochondrial genome of a member of Chlamydinae,Mimachlamys varia—a species of commercial interest and an effective bioindicator—revealing yet another novel gene arrangement in the Pectinidae. The phylogeny based on all mitochondrial protein coding and rRNA genes suggests the paraphyly of theMimachlamysgenus, further commending the taxonomic revision of the classification within the Chlamydinae subfamily. At the scale of the Pectinidae, we found that 15 sequence blocks are involved in mitogenome rearrangements, which behave as separate units.

Conclusions

Our study reveals incongruities between phylogenies based on mitochondrial protein-coding versus rRNA genes within the Pectinidae, suggesting that locus sampling affects phylogenetic inference at the scale of the family. We also conclude that the available taxon sampling does not allow for understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the high variability of mitogenome architecture observed in the Pectinidae, and that unraveling these processes will require denser taxon sampling.
Long-term immune responses in patients with confirmed novel coronavirus disease-2019: a 9-month prospective cohort study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Gong Xiaohuan , Cui Peng , Wu Huanyu , Pan Hao , Teng Zheng , Yuan Fang , Mao Shenghua , Kong Dechuan , Han Ruobing , Zhao Xue , Zheng Yaxu , Xiao Wenjia , Zhu Yiyi , Fang Qiwen , Lin Sheng , Jin Bihong , Chu Ruilin , Jiang Chenyan , Yu Xiao , Qiu Qi , Lu Yihan , Wang Weibing , Fu Chen , Sun Xiaodong
Published: March 2022

Background

The duration of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in Covid-19 patients remains uncertain. Longitudinal serological studies are needed to prevent disease and transmission of the virus.

Methods

In 2020, 414 blood samples were tested, obtained from 157 confirmed Covid-19 patients, in a prospective cohort study in Shanghai.

Results

The seropositive rate of IgM peaked at 40.5% (17/42) within 1 month after illness onset and then declined. The seropositive rate of IgG was 90.6% (58/64) after 2 months, remained above 85% from 2 to 9 months and was 90.9% (40/44) after 9 months. Generalized estimating equations models suggested that IgM (P < 0.001) but not IgG significantly decreased over time. Age ≥ 40 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.531; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.879–10.932), and cigarette smoking (aOR 0.344; 95% CI 0.124–0.951) were associated with IgG, and age ≥ 40 years (aOR 2.820; 95% CI 1.579–5.036) was associated with IgM. After seroconversion, over 90% and 75.1% of subjects were estimated to remain IgG-positive 220 and 254 days, respectively. Of 1420 self-reported symptoms questionnaires, only 5% reported symptoms 9 months after onset.

Conclusions

In patients with a history of natural infection, anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG is long-lived, being present for at least 9 months after illness onset. The long duration of natural immunity can mitigate and eliminate Covid-19 and the ongoing pandemic.