bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Pathologic Characterization of 94 Radiation-Associated Sarcomas: Our Institutional Experience
Authors: Kao Erica Y. , McEwen Abbye E. , Aden James K. , Schaub Stephanie K. , Ricciotti Robert W. , Mantilla Jose G.
Published: June 2022

Radiation-associated sarcomas are an uncommon complication of therapeutic radiation. However, their prevalence has increased with the more widespread use of this treatment modality. The clinical, pathologic and genetic characteristics of radiation-associated sarcomas are not fully understood. In this study we describe the features of 94 radiation-associated sarcomas reviewed at our institution between 1993 and 2018, evaluate their overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) outcomes, and compare them with their sporadic counterparts reviewed within the same time period. Histologic subtypes of all radiation-associated sarcomas included 31 (33%) undifferentiated sarcomas, 20 (21%) osteosarcomas, 17 (18%) angiosarcomas, 10 (11%) malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST), 9 (10%) leiomyosarcomas, 4 (4%) myxofibrosarcomas, and 3 (3%) rhabdomyosarcomas. Six patients had a documented cancer predisposition syndrome. The most common preceding neoplasms included adenocarcinoma (47%) and squamous cell carcinoma (19%), with a mean latency of 13 years. Multivariable Cox survival analysis demonstrated that advanced stage at diagnosis based on pT category (AJCC eighth edition) and fragmented resection were associated with worse survival outcomes. In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in PFS between radiation-associated undifferentiated sarcomas and MPNST when compared to their sporadic counterparts using the Kaplan-Meier method and Log-rank analysis. Overall, our study shows that radiation-associated sarcomas comprise a wide clinico-pathologic spectrum of disease, with a tendency for aggressive clinical behavior. This study further delineates the understanding of these uncommon diseases. Future studies are necessary to better understand the genetic and epigenetic changes that drive the differences in behavior between these tumors and their sporadic counterparts, and to offer better treatment options.
The analysis and computation on nonlocal thermoelastic problems of blend composites via enriched second-order multi-scale computational method
Authors: Dong Hao , Nie Yufeng , Ma Ruyun , Han Yaochuang
Published: June 2022

This paper proposes an innovative enriched second-order multi-scale (SOMS) computational method to simulate and analyze the nonlocal thermoelastic problems of blend composites with stress and heat flux gradient behaviors. The multiple periodical heterogeneities and periodic configurations of investigated blend composites in different substructures result in a huge computational cost for direct numerical simulations. The significant characteristics of this study are as follows. (1) The nonlocal properties of blend composites in constitutive equations are converted into the source terms of thermoelastic balance equations. The novel macro-micro coupled SOMS computational model for these transformed nonlocal multi-scale problems is derived on the basis of multi-scale asymptotic analysis. The nonlocal thermoelastic behaviors of blend composites can be merely uncovered in the enriched SOMS solutions. (2) The error analysis in the pointwise sense is presented to elucidate the importance and necessity of establishing the enriched SOMS solutions. Furthermore, an explicit error estimate for the SOMS approximate solutions is obtained in the integral sense for these nonlocal multi-scale problems. (3) A multi-scale numerical algorithm is presented to effectively simulate nonlocal thermoelastic problems of blend composites based on finite element method (FEM). Finally, the capability of the proposed enriched SOMS computational method is demonstrated by typical two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) blend composites, presenting not only the excellent numerical accuracy but also the less computational cost. This work proposes a unified multi-scale computational framework for enabling nonlocal thermoelastic behavior analysis of blend composites.
Internal resonances of nanorods in presence of surface energy effect: Nonlinear torsional vibration
Authors: Nazemnezhad R , Mehrianpoor Reza , Jandaghian Ali Akbar
Published: June 2022

In this paper, effects of the surface energy on the nonlinear torsional vibrations and internal resonances of nanorods are investigated. To this end, the second-order term with respect to angle of rotation is considered for the displacement field. In addition, the geometrically nonlinear strain–displacement relations are obtained based on the von-Kármán theory. Then, Hamilton’s principle is implemented to derive the governing equation of motion for torsional vibration of nanorod. In the governing equation of motion, the surface energy parameters are included by the surface elasticity theory. The multiple-scale method is employed to solve the governing equation of motion for fixed-free and fixed-fixed end conditions. The nanorod considered is made of aluminum and silicon because of different values of their surface parameters. The effect of surface energy parameters on the torsional frequencies of nanorods is investigated for different values of length, radius, frequency number, and amplitude of the nonlinear vibrations. In addition the cases of occurring, the internal resonances are reported. The results obtained in this research may be useful for better design of nanoelectromechanical devices such as nanobearings and rotary servomotors.
Intestinal Pathology in Patients With Pathogenic ACTG2-Variant Visceral Myopathy: 16 Patients From 12 Families and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kapur Raj P. , Goldstein Allan M. , Loeff Deborah S. , Myers Candace T. , Paschal Cate R.
Published: June 2022

Background

Dominant gamma-smooth muscle actin gene ( ACTG2) variants cause clinically diverse forms of visceral myopathy. Many patients undergo intestinal resection or biopsy before identification of their genetic defect. The pathology of ACTG2-variant visceral myopathy has not been evaluated systematically.

Methods

Glass slides, ultrastructural images, molecular genetic reports, and clinical records from 16 patients with pathogenic (15) or likely pathogenic (1) ACTG2 variants were reviewed and compared with surgical specimens from controls (no evidence of a primary myopathy or pseudo-obstruction due to Hirschsprung disease) and published descriptions.

Results

The variable clinical manifestations in our cohort matched those in the literature. Only non-specific light and electron microscopic findings observed in non-myopathic controls were encountered in 13 of 16 patients. The remaining 3 patients harbored hyalinized cytoplasmic inclusions in smooth muscle cells and 1 of them had polyglucosan bodies in the muscularis propria.

Conclusions

Apart from hyalinized inclusions, which were only observed in 3/16 patients, intestinal pathology in the majority of patients with ACTG2 variants is not indicative of an underlying visceral myopathy. Molecular testing should be considered even when no diagnostic intestinal pathology is identified.
Acute myocardial infarction risk in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Cho Eun Bin , Yeo Yohwan , Jung Jin-Hyung , Jeong Su-Min , Han Kyungdo , Yang Jeong Hoon , Shin Dong Wook , Min Ju-Hong
Published: June 2022

Background:

The link between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and cardiovascular disease is currently unclear.

Objective:

To determine the acute myocardial infarction (MI) risk in patients with MS and NMOSD.

Methods:

This study analyzed the Korean National Health Insurance Service database between January 2010 and December 2017. The included patients comprised 1503/1675 adults with MS/NMOSD who had not experienced ischemic heart disease or ischemic stroke at the index date. Matched controls were selected based on age, sex, and the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and dyslipidemia.

Results:

The risks of developing MI were 2.61 (hazard ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.73–3.95) and 1.95 (95% CI = 1.18–3.22) times higher in MS and NMOSD compared with the control populations. Patients with NMOSD had a similar MI risk compared with patients with MS, after adjusting for age, sex, income, hypertension, DM, and dyslipidemia (HR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.34–1.02, p = 0.059). Among each patient group, the MI risk did not differ significantly with age (20–39, 40–64 or ⩾65 years), sex, or the presence of hypertension, DM, or dyslipidemia.

Conclusion:

The MI risk increased in MS and NMOSD and seemed to be comparable between NMOSD and MS.
Parental perspectives on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder treatments for children
Authors: Vitulano Lawrence A , Mitchell John T , Vitulano Michael L , Leckman James F , Saunders David , Davis Naomi , Woodward Diana , Goodhue Bethany , Artukoglu Bekir , Kober Hedy
Published: June 2022

This study investigated parental perspectives and experiences on the evaluation and treatment process associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Five hundred sixty-eight parents of youth 2-28 years-old (M = 9.37; SD = 4.11) diagnosed with ADHD responded to a 14-item online survey about their child’s diagnosis and treatment. Parents reported that they had tried an average of 4.49 interventions (SD = 2.63). Parents further shared factors in treatment selection, most helpful parenting strategies, and preferences for types of treatments and treatment targets. A majority of parents reported incorporating many non-traditional strategies (e.g., exercise, healthy eating, outdoor activities) with goals of improving their child’s coping skills, study habits, and anger management. The findings show that treatment choices were often selected based on trust in the provider, research support, and the child’s preference. Given parental preferences for non-traditional strategies, treatment development efforts should consider these strategies as a component of a broader multimodal treatment approach to ADHD.
Like the cool kids? The role of popular classmates in the development of anti-immigrant attitudes in adolescence
Authors: Bohman Andrea , Kudrnáč Aleš
Published: June 2022

While classmates have been identified as important socializing agents in relation to adolescents’ prejudice, there is limited understanding of how popularity status plays into classroom transmission of prejudicial attitudes. Drawing on theories of social influence, we used a three-wave panel of Swedish adolescents ( N = 941, aged 13–15) to examine the role of sociometric and prestige popular classmates in the development of adolescents’ anti-immigrant attitudes. Multilevel repeated measurement models revealed positive relationships between popular and individual prejudice; between sociometric prejudice and the level and rate of change; and between prestige prejudice and wave-to-wave shifts in individual prejudice. Overall, we found sociometrically popular classmates to be more influential in relation to adolescents’ prejudice. Additionally, we found the effect of sociometric prejudice to be more pronounced if political issues were frequently discussed in the classroom.
Post-traumatic Lemierres Syndrome: A rare presentation secondary to mandibular fracture
Authors: Kaplan Saul , Grobler Ruan , Chetty Sean
Published: June 2022

Lemierre’s Syndrome is a rare phenomenon with a low prevalence and is characteristically seen in patients with an oropharyngeal infection that is complicated by thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and secondary septic emboli. We present the case of a 16 year old previously well male who was diagnosed with a rare case of Lemierre’s syndrome secondary to a mandibular fracture. Blood tests and radiological imaging confirmed the diagnosis, with CT scan of the patients head and neck revealing a right mandibular fracture with abscess formation, bilateral parapharyngeal abscesses, bilateral internal jugular vein thromboses, left sigmoid sinus thrombosis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, post septal orbital cellulitis with enhancing infraorbital collections and a subdural empyema overlying the left tentorium cerebelli. The treatment is usually non-operative with antibiotics and in some instances surgical drainage. In this case a combination of surgical drainage for source control and antibiotics were used. Unfortunately, despite an initial improvement in the patient’s clinical status the patient died. This is the first case of Lemierre’s syndrome secondary to blunt facial trauma reported in the scientific literature. This case highlights the importance of clinicians having a high degree of suspicion of Lemierre’s syndrome when a patient presents with typical clinical features following facial trauma.
Can we blame social media for polarization? Counter-evidence against filter bubble claims during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Jones-Jang S Mo , Chung Myojung
Published: June 2022

Although collective efforts are essential to fight COVID-19, public opinion in the United States is sharply divided by partisan attitudes and health beliefs. Addressing the concern that media use facilitates polarization, this study investigated whether social and traditional media use for COVID-19 information attenuates or reinforces existing disparities. This article focuses on two important areas where the public is highly polarized: partisan affect and vaccine attitudes. Contradicting the filter bubble claim, our survey ( n = 1106) revealed that social media use made people less polarized in both partisan affect and vaccine hesitancy. In contrast, traditional media use made people more polarized in partisan affect. These findings corroborate the growing evidence that social media provide diverse viewpoints and incidental learning.
Parasocial interactions with real and virtual influencers: The role of perceived similarity and human-likeness
Authors: Stein Jan-Philipp , Linda Breves Priska , Anders Nora
Published: June 2022

Digitally created online celebrities (so-called virtual influencers) have appeared on various social media and video streaming platforms. While the scientific community has recently started to take an interest in this new phenomenon, it still remains mostly unclear how online audiences engage with—and relate to—these artificial digital creations. To address the identified research gap, we conducted a preregistered experiment ( N = 179), comparing viewers’ parasocial interactions (PSIs) with either a human or a virtual influencer. Based on natural stimuli, we find that viewers’ parasocial response does not differ significantly between the two groups. However, by focusing on several theoretically relevant mediator variables, we uncover two opposing effects at play: While a significant direct effect signifies stronger PSIs with the virtual influencer, participants also attribute this persona with less mental human-likeness and similarity to themselves—which ultimately suppresses the observed advantage. Potential explanations for our results are discussed.
Effect of the static shoulder on microstructural, textural, and mechanical characteristics during friction stir welding of Al6061
Authors: Saravana Sundar A , Adepu Kumar , Mugada Krishna Kishore , Satyanarayana MVNV
Published: June 2022

In the present investigation, a novel static shoulder friction stir welding (SSFSW) tool has been designed and fabricated. The designed tool works both as rotating shoulder FSW (RS-FSW) and SSFSW. To evaluate the effectiveness of the developed tool, Al6061 plates have been subjected to both RS-FSW and SSFSW using the indigenously developed tool. The microstructure evolution, axial force, texture development, and mechanical properties were evaluated and compared for both RS-FSW and SSFSW. Adequate heat generation in SSFSW resulted in a homogeneous structure at the stir zone. Electron back scattered diffraction analysis demonstrated the presence of red-colored regions along the grain boundaries indicative of more dislocation density. These regions acted as preferable sites for precipitate (Mg2Si) accumulation, which greatly affected the mechanical properties of the joint. SSFSW joints contained a strong {111} texture of R-cube and S component with a maximum intensity of 6.85, while RS-FSW joints contained A and A* components with a maximum intensity of 4.85. The hardness plots showed a wide lower hardness region in RS-FSW with a maximum hardness of 101HV and 110HV (SSFSW). During the tensile test, both the joints failed in the lower hardness region after achieving 88% (SSFSW) and 75% (RS-FSW) strength of base material.
Acoustic emission monitoring of corrosion in steel pipes using Lamb-type helical waves
Authors: Livadiotis Stylianos , Sitaropoulos Konstantinos , Ebrahimkhanlou Arvin , Salamone Salvatore
Published: June 2022

This paper is concerned with the monitoring of corrosion in steel pipelines using the acoustic emission (AE) technique. Large uniform corrosion in pipes causes significant wall-thickness loss, and the intensity of the AE activity is correlated with the severity of the corrosion. A new approach for considering the helical propagation of corrosion-related AE events is proposed. Specifically, it is suggested that a longer portion of conventional AE hit is considered to account for multiple arrivals of Lamb-type modes traveling helically in the circumference of the pipe known as helical guided waves (HGW). Using the recorded amplitude of these events, a qualitative corrosion monitoring approach is proposed using the b-value analysis. An accelerated corrosion test on a steel pipe instrumented with a network of AE sensors is carried out to validate the proposed approach. Moreover, a numerical study is performed to evaluate the energy variation of HGW during the corrosion process. Both experimental and numerical results suggest that helical Lamb-type AE has the potential to be utilized for corrosion monitoring.
LncRNA NEAT1 Promotes the Malignant Progression of Colorectal Cancer by Targeting ZEB1 via miR-448
Authors: Wu Hanquan , Dong Dengwen , Wang Jiwei , Yin Shiwen , Gong Yuanxiang , Yang Chao , Bai Yihan , Wang Junyi , Du Yanhong
Published: June 2022

Background: Long noncoding RNAs have been associated with various types of malignant tumors; however, the specific role of long noncoding RNAs in tumorigenesis still remains unclear in colorectal cancer. Here, we aim to elucidate the role of long noncoding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 in the malignant progression of colorectal cancer and investigate its underlying mechanisms. Methods: Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expression of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 in colorectal cancer tissues and cells. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to determine the effect of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 in proliferation. Transwell assay was used to explore the role of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 in metastasis. Bioinformatics method was used to predict the core nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 interaction network. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 and miR-448 expression levels. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of ZEB1. Luciferase assay was used to verify the relationship among nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1, miR-448, and ZEB1. The effect of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 on tumor growth was detected by tumorigenesis test in nude mice. Results: Long noncoding RNA–nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 was up-regulated in colorectal cancer tissues and cells. Knocking down of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 can suppress colorectal cancer proliferation and invasion, and caused a reduction of ZEB1 expression and an increase of miR-448 expression. Furthermore, knockdown of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 regulated miR-448/ZEB1 axis to inhibit the expression of ZEB1. miR-448 silencing can reverse the effect of nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 knockdown. Conclusion: Our result demonstrated that long noncoding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 promotes proliferation and invasion of colorectal cancer by targeting miR-448 to promote the expression of ZEB1, which may play a significant role in the tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer.
The Value of the C-Reactive Protein-to-Lymphocyte Ratio for Predicting Lymphovascular Invasion Based on Nutritional Status in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Xu Rui , Xiao Shuomeng , Ding Zhi , Zhao Ping
Published: June 2022

Preoperative nutrition and inflammation are closely related to tumors (T). Many hematological marker assessment tools comprise nutritional and systemic inflammatory indexes, evaluating essential factors for cancer nutrition, growth, and progression. This study retrospectively investigated whether the C-reactive protein (CRP)-to-lymphocyte ratio (CLR) could predict lymphovascular invasion (LVI) in gastric cancer (GC) patients based on their nutritional status. We included 262 patients who underwent GC surgery between 2019 and 2020. The patient's nutritional status was assessed using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SCA), and patients with scores ≥4 were classified as malnourished. First, we examined 7 hematological marker combinations using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to determine which one best predicted malnutrition. The CLR predicted malnutrition more accurately than other ratios (area under the curve: 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.55-0.69, P = .002); the optimal cut-off value for malnutrition was 1.04. Next, we evaluated the relationship between the 7 combinations and postoperative LVI. A CLR higher than 1.04 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.09-3.00, P = .021) and a platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) higher than 129.00 (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.00-2.67, P = .049) were associated with LVI in the univariate analysis, and the CLR was an independent predictor of LVI in the multivariate analysis (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.04-2.87, P = .036). The preoperative CLR can assess nutritional status and independently predict LVI in GC.
Long-term Survival, Tolerability, and Safety of First-Line Bevacizumab and FOLFIRI in Combination With Ginsenoside-Modified Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Containing Curcumin in Patients With Unresectable Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jeon Youngbae , Sym Sun Jin , Yoo Bong Kyu , Baek Jeong-Heum
Published: June 2022

Background:

Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignant disease and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Previous studies showed improved bioavailability and cytotoxicity of ginsenoside-modified nanostructured lipid carrier containing curcumin (G-NLC) in human colon cancer cell lines. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and tolerability with long-term survival rates in patients with colorectal cancer with unresectable metastases after treatment with first-line bevacizumab/FOLFIRI (folinic acid, bolus/continuous fluorouracil, and irinotecan) in combination with a dietary supplement of G-NLC.

Methods:

This study was a prospective, observational, single-group analysis. The enrolled patients had colorectal cancer with unresectable metastases and were administered bevacizumab and FOLFIRI in combination with daily oral G-NLC as first-line treatment. Overall survival, progression-free survival, tumor response, and adverse events were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 44 patients were enrolled between 2015 and 2019. The median age was 65 (range 45-81) years and the sex ratio was 31:13 (male:female). The primary tumor locations were the colon (31 patients) and rectum (13 patients). The metastatic sites included, liver only (n = 20), lung only (n = 6), both liver and lung (n = 12), and others (n = 6). The median duration of curcumin supply was 7.9 (range 0.9-16.6) months. The most common grade 3 or higher adverse events were neutropenia (n = 15, 34.1%), followed by nausea (n = 4, 9.1%) and vomiting (n = 4, 9.1%). Within the median follow-up period of 22.8 months, the median overall survival was 30.7 months, and the median progression-free survival was 12.8 months. None of the patients achieved complete response (CR); however, 9 patients showed partial response (PR), and 3 patients underwent conversion surgery.

Conclusions:

Bevacizumab/FOLFIRI with G-NLC as first-line chemotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer with unresectable metastases presented comparable long-term survival outcomes with acceptable toxicity outcomes. Additional randomized controlled studies are needed to establish definitive conclusions regarding this new regimen for metastatic colorectal cancer.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals differential expression of EGFL7 and VEGF in giant-cell tumor of bone and osteosarcoma
Authors: Feleke Mesalie , Feng Wenyu , Song Dezhi , Li Hengyuan , Rothzerg Emel , Wei Qingjun , Kõks Sulev , Wood David , Liu Yun , Xu Jiake
Published: June 2022

Dysregulation of angiogenesis is associated with tumor development and is accompanied by altered expression of pro-angiogenic factors. EGFL7 is a newly identified antigenic factor that plays a role in various cancers such as breast cancer, lung cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia. We have recently found that EGFL7 is expressed in the bone microenvironment, but its role in giant-cell tumor of bone (GCTB) and osteosarcoma (OS) is unknown. The aims of this study are to examine the gene expression profile of EGFL7 in GCTB and OS and compare with that of VEGF-A-D and TNFSF11 using single-cell RNA sequencing data. In-depth differential expression analyses were employed to characterize their expression in the constituent cell types of GCTB and OS. Notably, EGFL7 in GCTB was expressed at highest levels in the endothelial cell (EC) cluster followed by osteoblasts, myeloid cells, and chondrocytes, respectively. In OS, EGFL7 exhibited highest expression in EC cell cluster followed by osteoblastic OS cells, myeloid cells 1, and carcinoma associated fibroblasts (CAFs), respectively. In comparison, VEGF- A is expressed at highest levels in myeloid cells followed by OCs in GCTB, and in myeloid cells, and OCs in OS. VEGF- B is expressed at highest levels in chondrocytes in GCTB and in OCs in OS. VEGF- C is strongly enriched in ECs and VEGF-D is expressed at weak levels in all cell types in both GCTB and OS. TNFSF11 (or RANKL) shows high expression in CAFs and osteoblastic OS cells in OS, and osteoblasts in GCTB. This study investigates pro-angiogenic genes in GCTB and OS and suggests that these genes and their expression patterns are cell-type specific and could provide potential prognostic biomarkers and cell type target treatment for GCTB and OS.
Preliminary Evaluation of a Citizen Scientist Educational Curriculum Aimed at Engaging Black Men in Lung Cancer Early Detection Screening
Authors: Matthews Alicia K. , Murray Marcus , Ben Levi Josef , Odell David , Jeremiah Rohan , Moore LeAndre , Oyaluade Damilola , Chappel Alexis , Burke Larisa , Watson Karriem
Published: June 2022

This article describes an educational program to engage African American men as citizen scientists (CSs) and future research partners in a lung cancer screening project. We provide an overview of the curriculum used, the structure and format of the educational sessions, and associated educational outcomes. Furthermore, we describe lessons learned in the engagement of African American men as CS in community-based lung-health equity research. The CS educational program included five group-based sessions delivered through zoom. The educational curriculum was adapted from the University of Florida Citizen Scientist program and tailored to address lung health and the contextual experiences of African American men. Each session lasted 90 minutes. Pre- and post-test measures were collected to examine changes in knowledge, comfort, health literacy, research interests, and medical mistrust. Eight African American men completed the CS educational program. Attendance rates were high for each session (100%). Seven participants completed additional human subject research certification. Improvements were observed from pre- to post-test in participants’ level of knowledge, comfort, and health literacy but not medical mistrust. CS reported the most interest in participating in research aimed to identify important community strengths and problems. Study findings suggest that it was feasible to deliver an online citizen scientist educational program designed to prepare participants to serve as partners in a lung cancer screening intervention for African American men. Results suggest the educational program has the potential to improve key outcomes including completion of regulatory training and increased research-related knowledge, comfort, and health literacy.
A Cadaveric Comparison of Approaches for Exposure of the Volar Distal Radius: Is There a Utilitarian Approach?
Authors: Warrender William J. , Wagner Daniel J. , Hoyer Reed W. , Merrell Gregory A. , Kleinman William B. , Smetana Brandon S.
Published: June 2022

Background:

It remains unclear whether exposure for planned fixation of distal radius fractrues is superior with any given approach, and whether a single utilitarian approach exists that permits reliable complete exposure of the volar distal radius.

Methods:

A cadaveric study was performed using 10 matched specimens. Group 1 consisted of 3 radially based approaches (standard flexor carpi radialis [FCR], standard FCR with radial retraction of FCR and flexor pollicis longus [FPL] tendons, extended FCR). Group 2 consisted of 2 ulnarly based approaches (volar ulnar, extended carpal tunnel). The primary outcome was total width of exposed distal radius at the watershed line. Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon rank testing was used to identify differences.

Results:

The standard FCR approach exposed 29 mm (90%), leaving on average 3 mm (10%) of the ulnar corner unexposed. Retracting the FCR and FPL tendons radially allows for an extra 1 mm of volar ulnar corner exposure. Finally, converting to an extended FCR approach provided 100% exposure in all specimens. The volar ulnar exposure however provided exposure to only 9 mm (37%), leaving 20 mm (62.5%) left unexposed radially. The extended carpal tunnel provided exposure to 21 mm (65%), leaving 11 mm (35%) radially unexposed. Differences between each group were statistically significant ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

The extended FCR approach exposed 100% of the volar distal radius in our study and may serve as a utilitarian volar surgical approach for exposure and fixation of distal radius fractures. Additional knowledge of the limitations of alternative approaches can be helpful in surgical planning.
Craniocervical Junction Visualization and Radiation Dose Consideration Utilizing Cone Beam Computed Tomography for Upper Cervical Chiropractic Clinical Application a Literature Review
Authors: DeNunzio Greg , Evans Tyler , Beebe Mychal E , Browning Jaime , Koivisto Juha
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To highlight the detail obtained on a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan of the craniocervical junction and its usefulness to Chiropractors who specialize in the upper cervical spine. A review of the dose considerations to patients vs radiography in a chiropractic clinical setting and to review the effective radiation dose to the patient.

Methods

A review of studies discussing cervical biomechanics, neurovascular structures, and abnormal radiographic findings, was discussed in relation to chiropractic clinical relevance. Further studies were evaluated demonstrating radiation dose to the patient from radiographs compared to CBCT.

Results

Incidental and abnormal findings of the craniocervical junction were shown to have superior visualization with CBCT compared to radiography. The radiation dose to the patient for similar imaging protocols to the craniocervical junction and cervical spine was equal or less utilizing CBCT when compared to radiographs.

Conclusions

The use of CBCT for visualization of the craniocervical junction and cervical spine in the chiropractic clinical setting allows for adjunctive visualization of the osseous structures which is germane to clinical protocol. Further with CBCT the effective dose to the patient is equal or less than similar imaging protocols utilizing radiographs to evaluate the craniocervical junction.
Chinese Crisis Communication in the Early Stage of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Discourse Analysis of People's Daily News Articles in Response to Threatening International News Coverage
Authors: Ernst Maximilian , Scartozzi Cesare , Thomas Ceinwen , Wang Yigong
Published: June 2022

This paper examines China's international communication strategy during the initial phase of the global COVID-19 pandemic. In the spring of 2020, Western governments and media began criticising the systematic lack of transparency and accountability in the Chinese political system in relation to the failed containment of the Wuhan outbreak. Facing an unprecedented reputational crisis, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) mobilised its foreign-language media in an attempt to influence the international discourse on COVID-19. Surveying the English and Chinese editions of the People's Daily, this study identifies CCP discourses aimed at foreign audiences and traces their evolution during the early stages of the pandemic. Overall, the study provides a comprehensive map of Chinese narratives on COVID-19 and generates fresh insights into CCP crisis communication.
Comparisons of Fifth-, Sixth-, and Seventh-Generation Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
Authors: Welsh John B. , Psavko Simon , Zhang Xiaohe , Gao Peggy , Balo Andrew K.
Published: June 2022

Background:

Between-system differences for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have important clinical consequences.

Purpose:

Here we review attributes of Dexcom’s fifth-, sixth-, and seventh-generation (G5, G6, and G7) CGM systems.

Methods:

Accuracy metrics were derived from preapproval trials of the three systems and compared after propensity score adjustments were used to balance baseline demographic characteristics. Metrics included mean absolute relative differences (MARD) between CGM and YSI values and the proportion of CGM values within 20% or 20 mg/dL of the YSI values (“%20/20”). Ease-of-use was evaluated by formal task analysis.

Conclusions:

Adjusted MARD and %20/20 agreement rates were 9.0%/93.1% (abdomen-placed G5), 9.9%/92.3% (abdomen-placed G6), 9.1%/93.2% (abdomen-placed G7), and 8.2%/95.3% (arm-placed G7). Task analysis favored G7 over earlier systems. Favorable clinical outcomes such as hemoglobin A1c reduction and hypoglycemia avoidance seen with G5 and G6 are anticipated with G7 use.
Rates of Operative Management for Achilles Tendon Rupture Over the Last Decade and the Influence of Gender and Age
Authors: Wilder J. Heath , Ofa Sione A. , Lee Olivia C. , Gadinsky Naomi E. , Rodriguez Ramon F. , Sherman William F.
Published: June 2022

Background

With emerging evidence supporting functional rehabilitation for Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs), this study sought to evaluate the treatment trends for patients sustaining an acute ATR and whether gender and age may influence the rates of operative repair.

Methods

A retrospective database review identified ATRs from 2010 through 2019. Patients were then stratified into three cohorts based on age (18-30, 30-45, and 46 and older), separated by gender, and then assessed whether patients were treated operatively or not. Cochran-Armitage Trend test was performed to analyze the trends of operative management. Chi-square analyses were performed to assess whether the proportion of patients who received operative management in each age cohort differed from 2010 to 2019. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess whether gender influenced treatment.

Results

Over the previous decade, the total rates of operative treatment for ATR significantly decreased (18.3%-12.3%, P < .0001). Each individual age cohort experienced a proportional decrease in operative management when comparing 2010 with 2019 (all P < .0001). Within all age cohorts, males were significantly more likely to receive operative treatment for an ATR over the previous decade (odds ratios: 2.63-3.22). Conclusion. Overall rates of operative management for ATR decreased across all cohorts likely due to previous studies providing evidence of similar results between operative and nonoperative managements. Over the previous decade, males were demonstrated to be far more likely than females to undergo operative management. Why females are less likely to receive an operation for ATR is likely multi-factorial and requires further exploration.

Level of Evidence:

Level III: Retrospective comparative study
Efficacy of Vidian Neurectomy and Posterior Nasal Neurectomy in the Management of Nonallergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Senanayake Praween , Wong Eugene , McBride Kate , Singh Narinder
Published: June 2022

Background

Nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) is characterized by rhinorrhea, nasal obstruction, and sneezing, in the absence of systemic sensitization to allergens. For cases refractory to medical therapy and conservative surgical interventions, more targeted procedures, such as endoscopic vidian neurectomy (EVN) and posterior nasal neurectomy (PNN), including surgical (SPNN) and cryoablative (CPNN) methods, may reduce symptoms of NAR.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy, side effect profile, and complication rate between EVN and PNN for NAR.

Methods

A systematic review of primary articles that reported original patient data for either EVN or PNN was conducted using Embase, Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane databases since 2006, according to PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome of the study was an improvement in NAR symptom severity. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of postoperative side effects or complications.

Results

In total, 58 articles met the search criteria with a total of 9 studies (including 2 RCTs) eligible for inclusion. There was a pooled sample of 229 NAR patients that underwent EVN (n = 65; 28.4%), SPNN (n = 50; 21.8%), or CPNN (n = 114; 49.8%). For all 3 techniques, there was a statistically significant improvement in nasal symptoms, particularly rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and obstruction along with quality of life. Heterogeneity in outcome reporting prevented meta-analysis and direct comparison of efficacy. The pooled incidence of postoperative complications for EVN (n = 65), SPNN (n = 50), and CPNN (n = 70) was 30.8% versus 0% versus 2.9% for dry eye, 16.9% versus 0% versus 1.4% for palatal/cheek numbness, and 0% versus 6% versus 4.3% for bleeding.

Conclusion

EVN, SPNN, and CPNN are similarly efficacious for patients with NAR refractory to medical management. SPNN and CPNN are associated with lower rates of complications (dry eye and palatal/cheek numbness) compared with EVN.
Comparison of the digital game, drills, and traditional education methods in terms of motivation in earthquake education
Authors: Çoban Murat , Göktaş Yüksel
Published: June 2022

This research aims to investigate the impact of three different training methods (digital game, drill, and traditional education) on the motivation of the students to teach earthquake preparedness and earthquake prevention knowledge to primary school students. The explanatory design from the mixed-methods research was used in the study. The sample of the study consists of 294 students at the fourth-grade level in three different elementary schools in one of Turkey’s easternmost provinces. At the end of different educational methods, the motivation scale about the course was used to determine the motivations of the students. Focus group interviews were conducted with students randomly selected from each study group to examine in depth the reasons for the differentiation of motivation levels of the students. The findings showed that students who participated in the traditional education method were more motivated than the other methods of teaching. Besides, students who study with the digital game were found to be less motivated. In this study, the limitations and advantages of educational methods in terms of motivation were examined in-depth, and the reasons affecting motivation were discussed. The results can provide important insights to educators, educational game designers, and educational politicians.
Let’s play videos in literacy practice: From let’s play to let’s learn
Authors: Shoda Vera Paola
Published: June 2022

Let’s Play (LP) is the term used to describe the videos of people providing commentary as they play video games that follow either live streaming or pre-edited format uploaded in online video sharing platforms. Previous studies on LP have shown its possible use in literary practice and pedagogical potential. This paper goes deeper into the analysis of showing LPs’ use in pedagogy in three sections. The first section is an academic review of the previous researches on e-learning design. Results show that recommended characteristics and functions for effective e-learning environments are similar to LPs’ environment and innovation. The second section examines LPs’ use in pedagogy by analyzing the LP viewers’ behavior in the Livestream chat. Results show that the behavior of LP viewers in the Livestream chat is similar to student behavior in e-learning, such as providing comments, asking questions, and peer-teaching. The third section comprises comparisons of the game events in LP with learning activities. Results show that the game events found in LP are relatable to the activities in learning, such as taking examinations, learning concepts, and doing exercise questions. The last section of the paper describes the proposed idea of Let’s Learn (LL), which combines the technical characteristics of LP, integrated humor, application of games, integrated humor, and peer learning. This research paper contributes to the research on evidence of LP’s massive potential in literacy instruction. It proposes the concept of LL, which is an adapted format of LP applied in education.
Acute neurologic emerging flaviviruses
Authors: Caldwell Marissa , Boruah Abhilasha P. , Thakur Kiran T.
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on the challenges we face as a global society in preventing and containing emerging and re-emerging pathogens. Multiple intersecting factors, including environmental changes, host immunological factors, and pathogen dynamics, are intimately connected to the emergence and re-emergence of communicable diseases. There is a large and expanding list of communicable diseases that can cause neurological damage, either through direct or indirect routes. Novel pathogens of neurotropic potential have been identified through advanced diagnostic techniques, including metagenomic next-generation sequencing, but there are also known pathogens which have expanded their geographic distribution to infect non-immune individuals. Factors including population growth, climate change, the increase in animal and human interface, and an increase in international travel and trade are contributing to the expansion of emerging and re-emerging pathogens. Challenges exist around antimicrobial misuse giving rise to antimicrobial-resistant infectious neurotropic organisms and increased susceptibility to infection related to the expanded use of immunomodulatory treatments. In this article, we will review key concepts around emerging and re-emerging pathogens and discuss factors associated with neurotropism and neuroinvasion. We highlight several neurotropic pathogens of interest, including West Nile virus (WNV), Zika Virus, Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV), and Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus (TBEV). We emphasize neuroinfectious diseases which impact the central nervous system (CNS) and focus on flaviviruses, a group of vector-borne pathogens that have expanded globally in recent years and have proven capable of widespread outbreak.
Effectiveness of the “Essential Coaching for Every Mother” postpartum text message program on maternal psychosocial outcomes: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dol Justine , Aston Megan , Grant Amy , McMillan Douglas , Tomblin Murphy Gail , Campbell-Yeo Marsha
Published: June 2022

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of the Essential Coaching for Every Mother program on maternal self-efficacy, perceived social support, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum depression at six-weeks postpartum.

Methods

Participants from Nova Scotia were randomized, stratified by parity, to receive either the Essential Coaching for Every Mother postpartum text-message program or usual care, from birth to six-weeks postpartum. Participants completed surveys at enrollment (after birth) and at 6 weeks. Differences between groups were analyzed using analysis of covariance, considering parity and group allocation.

Results

Of the 171 participants recruited (53% primiparous), 150 completed the baseline survey (intervention n = 78, control n = 72). At baseline, newborns were on average 4.4 days old (SD: 3.9) and mothers 31.4 years old (SD: 4.5). Controlling for maternal age, primiparous women in the intervention group had a greater increase in maternal self-efficacy than primiparous women in the control group (mean difference [MD] = 4.84 (standard error [SE] = 0.75) vs. MD = 2.13 (SE = 0.81), p = 0.034). Women allocated to the intervention group had a greater reduction in postpartum anxiety symptoms than women in the control group for both multiparous and primiparous women (MD = −3.91 (SE = 1.82) vs. 2.81 (SE = 1.86), p = 0.011). There was no significant change in postpartum depression scores or perceived social support for either group.

Discussion

This study presents the results of the first Canadian postpartum text message program, which found improved psychosocial outcomes for postpartum women. Given the potential to reach numerous women at a low cost across geographical locations, the scalability of this intervention can improve maternal self-efficacy and reduce postpartum anxiety.
Underscoring the Relationship Between Education for Women and National Development in Nigeria
Authors: Obiageli Onyeke Queen , Agu Chukwuagoziem S. , Nonso Okafor Samson , Chikodili Eze , Cynthia Chukwuma Chisom
Published: June 2022

This study assessed the impact of education for women at all levels (primary, secondary, and tertiary) on economic development and child welfare in Nigeria. The choice of these two domains was to give a thorough assessment economic impact of women’s education. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) was used to test for the stationarity of variables. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bound test with the aid of data obtained from World Bank indicators was employed for the analysis. The analysis revealed that the more women with secondary and tertiary education, the better the economic growth and child welfare in Nigeria. Hence, the paper concluded that the government should make and implement appropriate policies to boost women’s education enrolment at all levels.