bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pore characteristics and its heterogeneity of lignite reservoir in the Erlian Basin of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Jiang Pengfei , Xu Hao , Wu Heng , Xin Fudong , Zhao Tiantian , Chen Xiangyang
Published: May 2022

The pore characteristics of coal reservoirs play a very important role in the migration of coalbed methane reservoirs, and its heterogeneity has been studied by a large number of scholars. However, there are few studies on lignite reservoirs. In this paper, three sets of lignite reservoirs in the Jiergalangtu depression are taken as the research object. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images are converted from time-domain signals to frequency-domain signals through Fourier transformation, which quantitatively characterizes the heterogeneity of coal reservoirs. The variance of the value indicates that the three sets of coal seams NO.4Var<NO.5Var<NO.6Var. Through nitrogen adsorption experiment and fractal analysis, the pore continuity, surface roughness, pore structure, pore type and other aspects are studied. The lignite in the study area has high pore surface roughness and complex pore structure. Affected by various geological factors such as material composition, coal-forming environment, degree of evolution and other geological factors, lignite reservoirs in different layers and different mining areas show obvious heterogeneity.
Terminating Franchisees: Does It Improve Franchisor Performance?
Authors: Kim Stephen K. , Min Sungwook (Sam)
Published: May 2022

Terminating franchisees is a challenging decision every franchisor faces, yet its effect on franchisor performance remains unknown. We examine the effect of franchisee termination on a franchisor’s profitability (i.e., return on asset) in this study. Applying agency theory to franchisee termination, we posit that termination enables a franchisor to uphold a chain’s uniformity among stores through the dual functions of enforcement and deterrence. Weighing the benefits against the costs of termination, we predict a contemporaneous effect and a long-term effect of franchisee termination on franchisor profitability. We then contextualize the contemporaneous effect of termination. We postulate the alleviating or exacerbating influences of three conditions—new franchisee addition, customer mobility, and chain maturity—that may change the importance of benefits or costs of termination. We test our predictions with multiyear census data on franchising in South Korea. The results support our predictions except for the moderating effect of customer mobility. We discuss limitations and further research directions as well as implications of the study results.
The Common Marmoset—Biomedical Research Animal Model Applications and Common Spontaneous Diseases
Authors: Han Hyo-Jeong , Powers Sarah J. , Gabrielson Kathleen L.
Published: May 2022

Marmosets are becoming more utilized in biomedical research due to multiple advantages including (1) a nonhuman primate of a smaller size with less cost for housing, (2) physiologic similarities to humans, (3) translatable hepatic metabolism, (4) higher numbers of litters per year, (5) genome is sequenced, molecular reagents are available, (6) immunologically similar to humans, (7) transgenic marmosets with germline transmission have been produced, and (8) are naturally occurring hematopoietic chimeras. With more use of marmosets, disease surveillance over a wide range of ages of marmosets has been performed. This has led to a better understanding of the disease management of spontaneous diseases that can occur in colonies. Knowledge of clinical signs and histologic lesions can assist in maximizing the colony’s health, allowing for improved outcomes in translational studies within biomedical research. Here, we describe some basic husbandry, biology, common spontaneous diseases, and animal model applications for the common marmoset in biomedical research.
Practice-to-Research: Responding to the Complexities of Inclusion for Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders with Recommendations for Schools
Authors: Soares Denise A. , Harrison Judith R , Melloy Kristine , Baran Alyssa , Mohlmann Morgan
Published: May 2022

School administrators are instructional leaders responsible for ensuring high quality inclusive education for all students including those with disabilities. In this article, the authors review legal mandates, discuss inclusion of students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) in practice, and obstacles to effectiveness. Recommendations are provided to assist administrators in maintaining high quality inclusive education for students with EBD by addressing the following barriers: (a) administrator preparation and training; (b) prioritization; (c) common philosophy, vision, and mission; (d) funding and resources; (e) teacher training and coaching, (f) effective practices and (g) effective co-teaching. While experts continue to debate the inclusion of students with EBD, school administrators have moved on and are leading inclusive practices in schools. Barriers must be addressed prior to instating a fully inclusive model or face loss of staff and failure of students with EBD. As such, the authors propose a model of practice to research, in which strategies are recommended for current practice to overcome the identified barriers with available research. With implementation of the recommendations in this article, it is highly probable that students with EBD can be successful in inclusive settings.
A Randomized Control Trial on the Effects of MoBeGo, a Self-Monitoring App for Challenging Behavior
Authors: Bruhn Allison , Wehby Joseph , Hoffman Lesa , Estrapala Sara , Rila Ashley , Hancock Eleanor , Van Camp Alyssa , Sheaffer Amanda , Copeland Bailey
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of MoBeGo, a mobile self-monitoring app, on the initial and sustained academic engagement and disruptive behavior of third- to eighth-grade students with challenging behavior. Student–teacher pairs ( N = 57) were randomly assigned to the treatment (MoBeGo) or control (business-as-usual) condition. We conducted systematic direct observation of students’ behavior throughout prebaseline, baseline, intervention, and postintervention conditions of the study. Multivariate multilevel models revealed differential improvement for the MoBeGo group in student outcomes (less disruptive behavior; more academic engagement) from baseline to intervention, as well as successful postintervention effects for disruptive behavior. Limitations, future directions, and implications for practice are discussed.
Strengthening American Democracy Through Public Administration
Authors: Goodsell Charles True
Published: May 2022

America's precious democratic form of government is under severe threat. An attempt to sabotage the fair election of a new president has been committed and could easily be reattempted. Meanwhile, a war is being fought that clarifies a global struggle between autocracy and democracy. Despite our field's reputation for political neutrality, its institutions can be used to strengthen our democracy against its opponents.
Association Between Dietary Patterns and Bullying Among Adolescents in Sao Paulo—Brazil
Authors: Okada Letícia Martins , Marques Emanuele Souza , Levy Renata Bertazzi , Peres Maria Fernanda Tourinho , Azeredo Catarina Machado
Published: May 2022

Previous studies have assessed the association between food consumption and bullying perpetration, but most of them have not broadly assessed food consumption, neither the distinction between forms of bullying. The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between dietary patterns with bullying roles and its different types of bullying perpetration among adolescents. Data on a representative sample of ninth-grade students ( N = 2,163; mean age = 14.8 years) taken from Sao Paulo Project for the social development of children and adolescents (SP-PROSO) were used. The independent variables were healthy and unhealthy dietary patterns obtained by exploratory factor analysis. The dependent variables were bullying role (victim-only, bully-only, bully-victim) and bullying perpetration (any type, social exclusion, psychological/verbal aggression, physical aggression, property destruction, sexual harassment). Multinomial and logistic regression models were performed for the total sample and stratified by sex (only for association with sexual harassment), adjusting for covariates. Adolescents who engaged in a healthy dietary pattern were less likely to be bullies (RR 0.67 [0.49, 0.92]), while adolescents with an unhealthy dietary pattern were more likely to be bully-victims (RR 1.29 [1.12, 1.48]). Unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with any type of bullying perpetration ( OR 1.24 [1.12, 1.38]), mainly with sexual harassment and physical aggression. Boys who had an unhealthy dietary pattern were more likely to sexually harass another adolescent ( OR 2.10 [1.20, 3.66]). In conclusion, adolescents who had a healthy dietary pattern were less likely to perpetrate bullying. Unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with bullying perpetration, especially with sexual harassment by boys.
Analysis of Current E-Scooter Safety Regulation in a Large U.S. City Using Epidemiological Components as a Framework
Authors: Salas-Niño Liliana
Published: May 2022

E-scooters have been promoted as a solution to environmental and last-mile issues. However, physicians have reported an unusual increase in injured e-scooter riders, calling it an “epidemic.” An epidemiological investigation of e-scooter safety carried out in 2018 characterized injuries associated with e-scooter riders in Austin, TX for a period of 87 days. However, the effectiveness of the city’s current regulation on micromobility devices has not been discussed to determine whether it addresses the risk factors identified in this epidemiological investigation. To address this gap, this paper presents an analysis of the legal framework on micromobility devices from the components of the epidemiology triangle (agent, host, and environment) used by traffic authorities in the 1960s to curtail motor vehicle crashes. This analysis revealed that the current micromobility regulation does not offer practical provisions to tackle safety concerns efficiently. Furthermore, based on the number of motor vehicle crashes reported in Austin for 2018, it was found that if e-scooter riders were to travel the same distance in miles as motor vehicle drivers, there would be approximately 3,700,000 injuries compared with 15,133 motor vehicles injuries. Furthermore, this hypothetical figure does not consider the potential underreporting of e-scooter crashes, meaning that the number of injured people per 100,000 mi traveled on e-scooters could be even higher. At least 108 more injured riders were identified than was initially calculated in the 2018 epidemiological investigation. Overall, this study should encourage local authorities around the world to enact appropriate regulations to tackle safety issues surrounding micromobility devices.
Superior Capsular Reconstruction Versus Lower Trapezius Transfer for Posterosuperior Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears With High-Grade Fatty Infiltration in the Infraspinatus
Authors: Baek Chang Hee , Lim Chaemoon , Kim Jung Gon
Published: May 2022

Background:

Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and lower trapezius transfer (LTT) have recently been utilized to treat irreparable rotator cuff tears (IRCTs). There is still no clear guideline on which treatment method is a better fit for posterosuperior IRCTs with high-grade 4 fatty infiltration in the infraspinatus.

Purpose:

To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between arthroscopic-assisted SCR (aSCR) and arthroscopic-assisted LTT (aLTT) in patients with posterosuperior IRCTs with high-grade (Goutallier grade 4) fatty infiltration in the infraspinatus muscle.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients who underwent aSCR or aLTT for posterosuperior IRCTs with high-grade 4 fatty infiltration in the infraspinatus and had a minimum follow-up of 2 years between 2017 and 2019. A total of 58 patients were divided into 2 groups according to the surgical procedure: aSCR group (n = 22) and aLTT group (n = 36). Clinical outcomes comprised the visual analog scale score for pain, active shoulder range of motion (ROM), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and patient satisfaction. Radiological outcomes comprised the acromiohumeral distance (AHD). The progression of arthritis was evaluated via the Hamada grade. Graft integrity was assessed on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans.

Results:

Significant improvements in clinical outcomes were observed in both groups. However, active shoulder ROM (forward elevation: 165.7°± 22.3° vs 145.5°± 32.3°, respectively [ P = .015]; external rotation: 51.7°± 10.9° vs 41.1°± 7.0°, respectively [ P < .001]), the postoperative ASES score (84.8 ± 7.6 vs 76.8 ± 20.3, respectively; P = .045), and patient satisfaction (8.9 ± 1.2 vs 6.4 ± 2.1, respectively; P = .041) were significantly higher with aLTT than with aSCR. There was no significant difference between the groups in AHD at 2 years postoperatively. However, the rate of progression of arthritis was significantly higher with aSCR (22.7%) than with aLTT (2.8%) ( P = .027). Moreover, the graft retear rate was significantly higher with aSCR (63.6%) than with aLTT (8.3%) at 2 years postoperatively ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Although aSCR and aLTT both provided improvements in overall clinical outcomes for posterosuperior IRCTs with high-grade 4 fatty infiltration in the infraspinatus, aLTT was superior in terms of functional improvement, patient satisfaction, progression of arthritis, and graft integrity. Therefore, we prefer aLTT for posterosuperior IRCTs under the condition of high-grade 4 fatty infiltration in the infraspinatus.
Social Rhythm Disruption is Associated with Greater Depressive Symptoms in People with Mood Disorders: Findings from a Multinational Online Survey During COVID-19
Authors: Kahawage Piyumi , Bullock Ben , Meyer Denny , Gottlieb John , Crowe Marie , Swartz Holly A. , Yatham Lakshmi N. , Inder Maree , Porter Richard J. , Nierenberg Andrew A. , Meesters Ybe , Gordijn Marijke , Haarman Bartholomeus C. M. , Murray Greg
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Societal restrictions imposed to prevent transmission of COVID-19 may challenge circadian-driven lifestyle behaviours, particularly amongst those vulnerable to mood disorders. The overarching aim of the present study was to investigate the hypothesis that, in the routine-disrupted environment of the COVID-19, amongst a sample of people living with mood disorders, greater social rhythm disruption would be associated with more severe mood symptoms.

Methods

We conducted a two-wave, multinational survey of 997 participants [Formula: see text] who self-reported a mood disorder diagnosis (i.e., major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder). Respondents completed questionnaires assessing demographics, social rhythmicity (The Brief Social Rhythm Scale), depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), sleep quality and diurnal preference (The Sleep, Circadian Rhythms and Mood questionnaire) and stressful life events during the COVID-19 pandemic (The Social Readjustment Rating Scale).

Results

The majority of participants indicated COVID-19-related social disruption had affected the regularity of their daily routines to at least some extent ( n = 788, 79.1%). As hypothesised, lower social rhythmicity was associated with greater depressive symptoms when tested cross-sectionally (standardised β = −.25, t = −7.94, P = 0.000) and when tested using a 2-level hierarchical linear model across two time points ( b = −0.14, t = −3.46, df = 264, P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

These results are consistent with the social zeitgeber hypothesis proposing that mood disorders are sensitive to life events that disrupt social rhythms.
The electrical conductivity and interlaminar fracture toughness of composite laminate interleaved with silver-plated nylon mesh
Authors: Guo Miaocai
Published: May 2022

A composite laminate with high conductivity and high mode I fracture toughness was prepared by using a silver-plated nylon mesh as the interleaf. Through in-depth comparison with the silver-plated non-woven veil interleaved composites, the mechanisms of the conductivity improvement and interlaminar toughening were discussed. The conductivities along the fiber direction, in transverse to fiber direction and through thickness direction reached 739 S/cm, 734 S/cm, and 5.4 S/cm, respectively, which increased by 196%, 344,500%, and 4326%, respectively, and are much higher than these of the other modified systems. At the same time, the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness increased by 112%. Mechanism study shows that the conductivities along the fiber direction and in transverse to fiber direction are greatly affected by the interleaf conductivity, while the conductivity through thickness direction is little affected. The toughening mechanism of the plain or silver-plated nylon mesh is much different from that of the non-woven veils. Both of the composites interleaved with the plain or silver-plated nylon mesh have higher mode I interlaminar fracture toughness, but less improved mode II toughness. The effect of silver-plating on the mode I and mode II fracture toughness was studied.
The Konstruktionskommissionen and Danish shipbuilding, 1739–1756: From tension to hybrid warship design
Authors: Jorgensen Ida Christine
Published: May 2022

The Konstruktionskommissionen (Construction Committee), which was responsible for shipbuilding in the eighteenth-century Danish navy, was established in 1739 after a period of tension. The naval constructor Knud Nielsen Benstrup had been held personally accountable for an error in his design and imprisoned, and the following trial debated French and English shipbuilding methods – a hot topic. For decision-making in shipbuilding, historians have often discussed the physical requirements for a warship, whereas maritime archaeologists have also studied the psychology of and bias in shipbuilding. Through an example of a design from this period ( Grønland, launched in 1756), this article analyses the work and responsibilities of the Konstruktionskommissionen. This ranged from the creation of a good sailer, with a shallow draught yet steady fighting platform, to making decisions on the aesthetics of a warship, all at a time when the Danish navy experienced no battles and the success of the warships was difficult to gauge.
A comparative study of ultrasonic impact cladding of steel surface using titanium alloy pin
Authors: Liu Chuan , Tian Lihui , Wang Jianfei , Wang Jianxin , Liu Zhenguan
Published: May 2022

The ultrasonic impact cladding (UIC) of steel surface using titanium alloy pins is comparatively studied. The cross-sectional appearance, roughness, hardness, and corrosion properties of EQ70 high-strength low-alloy steel specimens after UIC were compared to those after ultrasonic impact treatment (UIT) with steel pins. And the effects of substrate strength and pin diameter on the UIC layer were investigated. Results show that the specimens treated by the UIC have lower roughness and better corrosion resistance than the UIT-treated specimen. The hardness of the pin, as well as the hardness and strength of the treated material, has a decisive effect on the thickness and element content of the cladding layer. The prerequisite for generating a cladding layer on the steel surface with the UIC is that fragments should be produced from the pin under the impact.
Comorbidities of systemic lupus erythematosus prior to and following diagnosis in different age-at-onset groups
Authors: Yu Cheng-Ya , Kuo Chang-Fu , Chou I-Jun , Chen Jung-Sheng , Lu Hung-Yi , Wu Chao-Yi , Chen Li-Chen , Huang Jing-Long , Yeh Kuo-Wei
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a female-dominated autoimmune disease that can occur at any age and has a diverse course. The clinical manifestation of this disease can vary depending on the patient’s age at onset. The aim of this study was to characterise the comorbidities at the time of SLE diagnosis and after in different age groups.

Methods

A total 1042 incident cases of SLE with a Catastrophic Illness Card in 2005 and 10,420 age- and sex-matched controls from the general population registered in the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan were enrolled in the study. The risk of comorbidities before (adjusted odds ratio, [aOR]) and after (adjusted hazard ratio, [aHR]) of SLE was analysed. The burden of these SLE-associated comorbidities was weight by the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). We used the cumulative incidence to evaluate the impact of comorbidities on different age onset groups.

Results

In this study, musculoskeletal diseases had the highest positive association (aOR, 5.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.25–6.57) prior to the diagnosis of SLE and they were also the most common developing incident comorbidity after the diagnosis (HR, 13.7; 95% CI: 11.91–15.77). It only took less than 1 year for 50% of the late-onset SLE patients to develop any increase in CCI score. The developing comorbidities attributed to 16.3% all-cause mortality and they had the greatest impact on late-onset SLE patients, with 33.3% cumulative incidence to all-cause mortality. There is no difference in the incidence of infectious diseases across different age groups. The herpes zoster infection had the greatest cumulative incidence among the category of infection diseases in child-onset SLE patients.

Conclusion

SLE patients had increased risks of multiple pre-existing comorbidities at diagnosis. The developed comorbidity after diagnosis could contribute to all-cause mortality. The herpes zoster infection is primarily an issue in child-onset SLE patients.
XPA Enhances Temozolomide Resistance of Glioblastoma Cells by Promoting Nucleotide Excision Repair
Authors: Dai Weimin , Wu An , Li Yunping , Yu Guofeng , Yan Xinjiang
Published: May 2022

Glioblastoma is the most frequent, as well as aggressive kind of high-grade malignant glioma. Chemoresistance is posing a significant clinical barrier to the efficacy of temozolomide-based glioblastoma treatment. By suppressing xeroderma pigmentosum group A (XPA), a pivotal DNA damage recognition protein implicated in nucleotide excision repair (NER), we devised a novel method to enhance glioblastoma therapy and alleviate temozolomide resistance. On the basis of preliminary assessment, we found that XPA dramatically increased in glioblastoma compared with normal cells and contributed to temozolomide resistance. By constructing XPA stably knockdown cells, we illustrate that XPA protects glioma cells from temozolomide-triggered reproductive cell death, apoptosis, as well as DNA repair. Besides, XPA silencing remarkably enhances temozolomide efficacy in vivo. This study revealed a crucial function of XPA-dependent NER in the resistance of glioma cells to temozolomide.
Effects of a Web-Based Pediatric Oncology Legacy Intervention on the Coping of Children With Cancer
Authors: Cho Eunji , Dietrich Mary S. , Friedman Debra L. , Gilmer Mary Jo , Gerhardt Cynthia A. , Given Barbara A. , Hendricks-Ferguson Verna L. , Hinds Pamela S. , Akard Terrah Foster
Published: May 2022

Background

Recurrent or refractory cancer often results in substantial and extensive physical, emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual burdens for children and their families. However, the therapeutic benefits of legacy interventions in children with recurrent or refractory cancer have been examined only recently, with limited attention to specific effects on children’s coping abilities.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a digital storytelling-legacy intervention on the adaptive coping of children with recurrent or refractory cancer.

Methods

This study used a 2-arm randomized, waitlist-controlled trial design. A total of 150 children with recurrent or refractory cancer and their parents were recruited via Facebook advertisements.

Results

The analysis sample included 92 dyads (35-intervention group, 57-control group). The legacy intervention showed small and statistically nonsignificant effects on primary-control and disengagement coping strategies among children with recurrent or refractory cancer.

Conclusions

Legacy interventions using readily accessible digital storytelling have the potential to enhance the adaptive coping skills among children with recurrent or refractory cancer. Further research should determine how to enhance interventions tailored to this population to optimize the benefits.
Bupivacaine/meloxicam ER: A New Dual-acting Extended-Release Local Anesthetic for Opioid-Sparing Postoperative Pain Management
Authors: Bourn Taylor , Serpa Sister Michaela
Published: May 2022

Objective

To review data for bupivacaine/meloxicam extended-release (ER) solution for management of postoperative pain and opioid-sparing effects.

Data Sources

Literature search of PubMed (1946 to August 2021) and ProQuest (1946 to August 2021) was performed using the terms: Zynrelef, HTX-011, and “bupivacaine AND meloxicam.” Additional information sources include ClinicalTrials.gov, prescribing information, Heron Therapeutics’ Clinical and Economic Evidence Dossier, meeting abstracts, and references of identified articles.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

Clinical trials and articles evaluating bupivacaine/meloxicam ER for postoperative pain management.

Data Synthesis

Bupivacaine is a short-acting local anesthetic. Its efficacy is negatively impacted by the acidic environment of surgical sites. Meloxicam, a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory, reduces inflammation at the surgical site and increases pH propagating bupivacaine movement into the neurons. In Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials, bupivacaine/meloxicam ER was compared with bupivacaine HCl, bupivacaine ER, and meloxicam ER with and without scheduled nonopioid multimodal analgesia (MMA) in bunionectomies, herniorrhaphies, total knee arthroplasty and abdominoplasty. Postoperative pain was well controlled for 72 hours and consistently superior to placebo, with minimal or no opioid use. Wound healing was not impacted and adverse effects were similar to placebo (most commonly nausea, dizziness, constipation, and headaches).

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice

Bupivacaine/meloxicam ER is a viable, safe, nonopioid local anesthetic for sustained 72-hour postoperative pain management mitigating opioid consumption.

Conclusion

Bupivacaine/meloxicam ER is the only dual-acting, extended-release local anesthetic available. It provides effective analgesia in the postoperative setting and successfully reduces or eliminates postoperative opioid consumption.
Study Protocol: Multi-Level Determinants of Implementation and Sustainment in the Education Sector
Authors: McLeod Bryce D. , Sutherland Kevin S. , Conroy Maureen A. , Lyon Aaron R. , Chapman Jason E. , Granger Kristen L. , Saldana Lisa
Published: May 2022

Evidence-based programs (EBPs) delivered in elementary schools show great promise in reducing risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBDs). However, efforts to sustain EBPs in school face barriers. Improving EBP sustainment thus represents a priority, but little research exists to inform the development of sustainment strategies. To address this gap, the Sustaining Evidenced-Based Innovations through Multi-level Implementation Constructs (SEISMIC) project will (a) determine if malleable individual, intervention, and organizational factors predict EBP treatment fidelity and modifications during implementation, sustainment, or both; (b) assess the impact of EBP fidelity and modifications on child outcomes during implementation and sustainment; and (c) explore the mechanisms through which individual, intervention, and organizational factors influence sustainment outcomes. This protocol article describes SEISMIC, which builds upon a federally funded randomized clinical trial evaluating BEST in CLASS, a teacher-delivered program for K to Grade 3 children at risk for EBDs. The sample will include 96 teachers, 384 children, and 12 elementary schools. A multi-level, interrupted time series design will be used to examine the relationship between baseline factors, treatment fidelity, modifications, and child outcomes, followed by a mixed-method approach to elucidate the mechanisms that influence sustainment outcomes. Findings will be used to create a strategy to improve EBP sustainment in schools.
A Bifactor Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling Representation of the Structure of the Decent Work Scale: Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Doudou , Lan Yuanmei , Li Chaoping , Xu Yan , Yang Jie
Published: May 2022

The present study investigates the psychometric properties of decent work utilizing the bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling (Bifactor-ESEM) approach. Using a sample of 701 Chinese employees who completed the multidimensional Decent Work Scale (DWS: Duffy et al., 2017), this study reveals the superiority of the Bifactor-ESEM representation of DWS compared to alternative representations of the data (ICM-CFA, Bifactor-CFA, and ESEM). Additionally, the results of measurement invariance in the MIMIC framework indicate the DWS is equivalent in various age and job tenure samples of participants. Finally, the results provide evidence for the criterion validity by confirming the importance of accounting for both the G-factor (representing the global level of decent work) and the S-factors (representing the specific level of decent work), which shows that specific types of decent work explained variance in covariates (i.e., work well-being, life well-being, engagement, and turnover intention) over and above the variance already explained by the G-factor.
The Extensive Regulation of MicroRNA in Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Zhao Yuerong , Cui Siyuan , Wang Yan , Xu Ruirong
Published: May 2022

MicroRNA (miRNA) is a small, single-stranded, non-coding RNA molecule that plays a variety of key roles in different biological processes through post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. MiRNA has been proved to be a variety of cellular processes involved in development, differentiation, signal transduction, and is an important regulator of immune and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, it may act as potent modulators of the immune system and play an important role in the development of several autoimmune diseases. Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune systemic disease characterized by a low platelet count. Several studies suggest that like other autoimmune disorders, miRNAs are deeply involved in the pathogenesis of ITP, interacting with the function of innate and adaptive immune responses. In this review, we discuss emerging knowledge about the function of miRNAs in ITP and describe miRNAs in terms of their role in the immune system and autoimmune response. These findings suggest that miRNA may be a useful therapeutic target for ITP by regulating the immune system. In the future, we need to have a more comprehensive understanding of miRNAs and how they regulate the immune system of patients with ITP.
Differential Neutralization of Unfractionated Heparin and Enoxaparin by Andexanet Alfa
Authors: Lewis Joseph , Iqbal Omer , Jeske Walter , Hoppensteadt Debra , Siddiqui Fakiha , Fareed Jawed
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Andexanet alfa (andexanet) is an approved antidote used to reverse the bleeding effects of Direct Oral Anticoagulant (Direct-Xa agents) agents because it reverses anti-Xa activity. Unfractionated heparin (UFH) and low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) exhibit anti-Xa activity. The purpose is to investigate the neutralization of UFH and LMWH by andexanet in activated clotting time (ACT), thrombelastography (TEG), and anti-Xa due to the protamine sulfate shortage.

Methods

UFH and LMWH were studied with andexanet, PS, or saline as potential reversal agents/controls at varying concentrations in ACT, TEG, and anti-Xa and compared to each other.

Results

Andexanet partially neutralized both drugs several TEG parameters at high andexanet concentrations, but it was not as effective as protamine sulfate in any of the assays used. Most TEG parameters were correlated with andexanet concentration. In ACT, significant neutralization was demonstrated at many andexanet concentrations for UFH, but not LMWH. UFH was completely neutralized by PS in ACT, while LMWH was partially neutralized by PS in ACT. Andexanet alfa was a less effective neutralization agent than the protamine sulfate as it only partially neutralized UFH in ACT and was ineffective at neutralizing LMWH when tested at the same concentration as PS (10 ug/mL).

Conclusion

Andexanet partially neutralized UFH and LMWH with variability between assays, necessitating investigation into assay-dependent differences.
Effects of a Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program With Expanded Education for Low-Income Adults
Authors: Slagel Nicholas , Newman Taylor , Sanville Laurel , Dallas Jackie , Cotto-Rivera Edda , Moore Jessie , Roberts MPH Alexis , Sun Lee Jung
Published: May 2022

Fruit and Vegetable Prescription (FVRx) Programs combine produce prescriptions and nutrition education to reduce fruit and vegetable consumption barriers and promote health among low-income patient populations. This study examined whether a multi-level FVRx intervention model with intensive education improves dietary behaviors, food security, and health outcomes over single-level interventions alone. A 6-month nonrandomized, parallel, controlled trial was conducted with one intervention, FVRx ( n = 31) and two comparison groups, Ad hoc Nutrition Education ( n = 13) and Control ( n = 16). The FVRx group received produce prescriptions (US$1/day/household member) redeemable at a farmer’s market, two SNAP-Ed programs, one financial literacy program, and monthly health screenings. The Nutrition Education (NE) group participated in one SNAP-Ed program, and the Control group received safety-net clinic care only. Surveys assessed dietary intake, food security, food purchasing practices, and financial and food resource management. Pre–post clinical biomarkers (blood lipid and hemoglobin A1c) and monthly biometrics (anthropometrics and blood pressure) were measured. Descriptive analysis and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted. Compared with comparison groups, FVRx participants significantly increased the frequency of consuming dark green vegetables, FVRx (0.36 ± 0.72); NE (0.14 ± 0.33); Control (−0.09 ± 0.19) cups/day ( p < .05). FVRx participants significantly improved multiple healthful food purchasing practices, and the ability to afford more utilities (FVRx (33%); NE (0%); Control (10%); p < .05). Limited changes were observed in food security and clinical biomarker outcomes between groups. Combining expanded nutrition and financial literacy education with produce prescriptions improves low-income adults’ financial and food resources, preference, knowledge, purchase, and consumption of locally grown vegetables over single-level interventions.
Tumours involving the retrobulbar space in cats: 37 cases
Authors: Jones Bryn A , Cotterill Nicole , Drees Randi , Dietrich Ursula M , Purzycka Katarzyna
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The aim of this multicentre retrospective study was to describe the clinical presentation, imaging findings, diagnosis and outcomes of cats with retrobulbar neoplasia.

Methods

A total of 37 cats that were diagnosed with retrobulbar neoplasia and underwent advanced imaging were recruited from searches of the clinical records of two referral hospitals. All cats had neoplasia confirmed via cytology or histopathology. Data relating to the signalment, presentation, results of investigations, treatment and outcome were recorded. A review of imaging studies was performed where possible.

Results

In total, 23 cases (62%) were presented with respiratory signs. Exophthalmos was the most common ophthalmological examination finding, present in 18 cases (49%). Thirty-two cases (86%) had secondary extension of neoplasia to the retrobulbar space (most commonly from the nasal cavities), present in 20 cases (54%), of which 12 were lymphoma. In cases where contrast was administered, 28/35 (80%) had contrast-enhancing masses. Orbital extension was detected in 21 cases (57%), exophthalmos in 22 (59%), globe deformation in 12 (32%) and local lymphadenomegaly in 22 (61%). In total, 36 (97%) retrobulbar tumours were malignant. Thoracic imaging, where it was performed, was concerning for metastasis in 8/25 cases (31%), with abdominal imaging suggestive of metastasis in 5/12 (42%). The most common diagnosis was lymphoma with 19 cases (51%), with nasal lymphoma representing 12 of these, followed by carcinoma in 10 (27%). The median survival time, for cases where death was recorded, was 85 days (range 1–263 days).

Conclusions and relevance

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the largest study of neoplasia affecting the feline retrobulbar space. Retrobulbar tumours in cats are overwhelmingly malignant, and commonly due to secondary extension of tumours originating elsewhere. Lymphoma, particularly arising from the nasal cavities, was the most common cause. Cats presenting with signs suggestive of retrobulbar disease should be assessed for disease affecting any of the structures of the head.
Accelerated corneal crosslinking causes pseudoprogression in keratoconus within the first 6 weeks without affecting posterior corneal curvature
Authors: Xanthopoulou Kassandra , Milioti Georgia , Daas Loay , Munteanu Cristian , Seitz Berthold , Flockerzi Elias
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of epithelium-off (epi-off) accelerated corneal crosslinking (A-CXL, 9 mW/cm2, 10 min) in adult keratoconus (KC) patients.

Methods

The study included 151 KC corneas (124 patients) after A-CXL. The parameters best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the tomographic readings (Pentacam HR, Oculus, Germany) were analysed at 24, 12 and 6 months preoperatively, prior to surgery; and 6 weeks, 6 months, 1, 2 and >2 years postoperatively. The demarcation line was assessed by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (Tomey SS-1000, CASIA 2 (Tomey, Nagoya, Japan)).

Results

Comparing pre- to postoperative findings 6 weeks after A-CXL with paired t-test, the anterior steep (46.8 ± 4.0|47.1 ± 4.1), flat (50.2 ± 4.3|50.6 ± 4.6) and maximal keratometry (57.6 ± 6.8|58.3 ± 6.8) increased (p < 0.05), while the thinnest pachymetry decreased significantly (459 ± 39|444 ± 42, p < 0.05). Lateron, however, there was a decreasing anterior flat (1, 2 and >2 years; p < 0.0001), mean (1 year; p = 0.01 and 2 years; p = 0.03) and maximal keratometry (1, 2 and >2 years; p < 0.0001). The posterior corneal keratometry readings did not change significantly until >2 years after A-CXL (MANOVA; steep, p = 0.008; flat, p = 0.027; mean, p = 0.007). The mean depth of the demarcation line was 242 ± 62 µm (53.6%). The preoperative logMAR BCVA (0.35 ± 0.02) decreased 6 weeks after A-CXL (0.39 ± 0.03) followed by a continuous improvement until the latest follow-up (0.18 ± 0.04).

Conclusion

A-CXL constitutes a successful method for KC stabilization. Signs of KC progression occur within the first 6 weeks postoperatively (“pseudoprogression”), but this is not indicative of the long-term effect.
Peripheral and macular polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: A retrospective comparative case series
Authors: Venkatesh Ramesh , Mishra Pranjal , Nahata Harshita , Reddy Nikitha Gurram , Yadav Naresh Kumar , Chhablani Jay
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To compare clinical and imaging features and treatment outcomes between eyes having peripheral polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and macular PCV.

Methods

In this retrospective comparative case series, confirmed cases of peripheral and macular PCV cases on indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were included. The various demographic features, imaging characteristics and clinical course between cases with peripheral and macular PCV were compared and analysed.

Results

Fifteen eyes of 12 patients and 22 eyes of 20 patients were diagnosed with peripheral PCV and macular PCV respectively based on polyps seen on ICGA. Mean age at presentation in peripheral and macular PCV groups were 76.3 ± 8.78 and 69.1 ± 8.64 years respectively (p = 0.038). Mean logMAR visual acuity in the peripheral and macular PCV group was 0.423 ± 0.568 and 0.535 ± 0.513 respectively (p = 0.595). Peripheral subretinal hemorrhage was noted commonly in the peripheral PCV group (n = 10, 66%) and hard exudates were common in the macular PCV (19, 86%) group. Subfoveal choroid was significantly thinner in peripheral PCV group compared to macular PCV group (215.2 ± 39.94 vs 283.3 ± 50.08; p = 0.001). At final follow-up visit, 50% eyes (n = 11) in macular PCV group were still active and 87% (n = 13) eyes in the peripheral PCV showed an inactive disease (p = 0.035).

Conclusion

Peripheral and macular PCV cases are two separate clinical entities having distinct pathogenesis, clinical and imaging features and treatment outcomes. Further studies are needed for understanding the pathomechanism in these distinct disease entities.
Management of coexisting bilateral ocular surface disease in xeroderma pigmentosum - sequence and outcomes
Authors: Rajagopal Rama , Srinivasan Bhaskar , Iyer Geetha , Agarwal Manokamna
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To report a rare presentation of bilateral, coexisting ocular surface disease in a case of Xeroderma pigmentosum and its successful management.

Methods

Case report.

Results

A 21-year-old male with Xeroderma pigmentosum presented with bilateral ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) along with central guttae in the right eye and corneal decompensation of the left eye. Subsequently, the patient developed dry eyes and lid margin keratinization in both eyes followed by perforation in the left eye. Sequential procedures both medical and surgical, including excision of the tumour, corneal transplantation and mucous membrane grafting addressing each of these ocular surface issues resulted in a successful outcome. There was no recurrence of the tumour over 3 years. Corneal transplantation is preferably done after a minimum of 6 months following excision. Mucous membrane grafting performed for progressive lid margin keratinization resulted in surface stabilization.

Conclusions

In Xeroderma Pigmentosum, multiple ocular surface features can rarely coexist and be bilateral. Periodic evaluation of the surface for tumours, progressive dry eyes and endothelial function is recommended as a part of routine evaluation in Xeroderma pigmentosum. Surface procedures should precede intraocular intervention. Sequential management can result in successful outcomes.
Barriers to telemedicine for patients with heart failure: Who are the patients being left behind?
Authors: Zuchinali Priccila , Béchard Stéphanie , Remillard Emilie , Souza Grigoletti Shana , Marier-Tétrault Emmanuel , Jean-Charles Loyda , Ribeiro Paula AB , Tournoux François
Published: May 2022

Heart failure is associated with high rates of hospitalization, which are more prevalent in frail patients, impacting the quality of life and clinical outcomes. Telemedicine is considered cost-effective for improving patient self-management and hospitalization. However, socioeconomic deprivation and frailty could hinder access to virtual care. We investigated if frailty and socioeconomic factors were associated with telemedicine access among heart failure patients. For this cross-sectional analysis of Continuum study, 35 patients were allocated to the “able to use” group (had a smart device and were able to use it) or the “not able to use” group. Socioeconomic deprivation was determined according to the deprivation index. Frailty was assessed using the Fried criteria. The mean age was 69.9 ± 9 years, 74% were in New York Heart Association class II. A total of 14 patients (39%) were physically frail. Patients considered not able to use the app were more socioeconomically deprived ( p = 0.011) and frail ( p = 0.036). There was no correlation between frailty score and socioeconomic deprivation ( r = 0.15, p = 0.411). Telemedicine use seems to be independently associated with frailty and socioeconomic deprivation in heart failure patients. More efforts should be made to foster the inclusion of vulnerable patients and improve global telemedicine access.
Artificial intelligence for the evaluation of peripheral artery disease using arterial Doppler waveforms to predict abnormal ankle-brachial index
Authors: McBane Robert D , Murphree Dennis H , Liedl David , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco , Attia Itzhak Zachi , Arruda-Olson Adelaide , Scott Christopher G , Prodduturi Naresh , Nowakowski Steve E , Rooke Thom W , Casanegra Ana I , Wysokinski Waldemar E , Swanson Keith E , Houghton Damon E , Bjarnason Haraldur , Wennberg Paul W
Published: May 2022

Background:

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at increased risk for major adverse limb and cardiac events including mortality. Developing screening tools capable of accurate PAD identification is a necessary first step for strategies of adverse outcome prevention. This study aimed to determine whether machine analysis of a resting Doppler waveform using deep neural networks can accurately identify patients with PAD.

Methods:

Consecutive patients (4/8/2015 – 12/31/2020) undergoing rest and postexercise ankle–brachial index (ABI) testing were included. Patients were randomly allocated to training, validation, and testing subsets (70%/15%/15%). Deep neural networks were trained on resting posterior tibial arterial Doppler waveforms to predict normal (> 0.9) or PAD (⩽ 0.9) using rest and postexercise ABI. A separate dataset of 151 patients who underwent testing during a period after the model had been created and validated (1/1/2021 – 3/31/2021) was used for secondary validation. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) were constructed to evaluate test performance.

Results:

Among 11,748 total patients, 3432 patients met study criteria: 1941 with PAD (mean age 69 ± 12 years) and 1491 without PAD (64 ± 14 years). The predictive model with highest performance identified PAD with an AUC 0.94 (CI = 0.92–0.96), sensitivity 0.83, specificity 0.88, accuracy 0.85, and positive predictive value (PPV) 0.90. Results were similar for the validation dataset: AUC 0.94 (CI = 0.91–0.98), sensitivity 0.91, specificity 0.85, accuracy 0.89, and PPV 0.89 (postexercise ABI comparison).

Conclusion:

An artificial intelligence-enabled analysis of a resting Doppler arterial waveform permits identification of PAD at a clinically relevant performance level.
Wolfgang Streeck on consumption, depoliticisation and neoliberal capitalism
Authors: Sadian Samuel
Published: May 2022

Tucked into Wolfgang Streeck’s influential crisis theory of contemporary capitalism are various attempts at causally linking processes of neoliberalisation to generalised depoliticisation, while depoliticisation is in its turn attributed to the emergence of a diffuse ‘consumerist’ ethos in the 1970s. Streeck argues that rising consumerism led to a generalised demotic embrace of marketised forms of need satisfaction and in so doing evacuated the political will to resist neoliberal reforms. If, however, we take neoliberalisation to entail both the depoliticisation of the demos and the marketisation of the polity, then Streeck’s attempt to connect these processes to consumption is weakened by significant historical oversights on both ends. Streeck’s attribution of depoliticisation to a new consumerist ethos is beset by a reductive economism. At the same time, Streeck overlooks just how pivotal legitimatory ideals of consumer-side social order developed by specific networked elites have been for the marketisation of the polity.