bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient micromechanics-based finite element model for failure analysis of laminated composites
Authors: Wang Li-Sheng , Li Peng , Zhou Yi , Huang Zheng-Ming
Published: December 2022

Accurately predicting ultimate strength of composite laminate is still a great challenge, especially only based on the constituent properties. In this paper, the micromechanics Bridging Model and systematic failure criteria for the constituent materials with emphasis on matrix failures subjected to three dimensional (3D) loads are compiled into a UMAT subroutine for ABAQUS to analyze failures of a laminated composite structure. The main purpose of this research is to greatly reduce calculation costs for loading conditions of in-plane tension or compression by introducing a simplified 3D finite element model based on the Pipes-Pagano theory. In all calculation cases, only the constituent properties together with the transverse tensile strength of unidirectional composite are needed as input data. Later in this paper, sufficient illustrations of 81 different composite laminates composed of 14 material systems are analyzed to confirm the practicability of this model.
Using Technology as a Compensatory Technique for Executive Function Skill Deficits During the Coaching Process
Authors: Anderson Kiera , Marino Matthew T.
Published: December 2022

Enrollment rates of students with disabilities (SWD) in postsecondary education continue to rise, yet SWD continue to face challenges with persistence toward degree completion. Executive function deficits (e.g., difficulty concentrating, managing time, problem solving, or planning) often impact academic, social, and occupational function. Academic and social adjustment to the complexity of life beyond students' homes can be stressful, further exacerbating difficulties with executive function skills necessary for postsecondary success. Coaching can assist young adults during postsecondary education to enhance executive function skills and has the potential to reduce stress and anxiety. Coaching is a collaborative, client-centered process designed to elicit client identification of goal areas, increase self-awareness, and problem-solving solutions. This practitioner article explores executive function skills, coaching, and how technology can be used within the coaching process to support executive function deficits for students in the postsecondary environment.
The digitalising state: Governing digitalisation-as-urbanisation in the global south
Authors: Datta Ayona
Published: December 2022

This paper will investigate the emergence of a digitalising state in the global south through a focus on new techniques of governance initiated by the information age. It will discuss the mechanisms of the digitalising state across two realms – the governance of information infrastructures evident in the transition from paper to digital data, and the governance of informational peripheries emerging across digital and territorial exclusions. The paper argues that through these dynamics, the digitalising state is engaged in a politics of digitalisation-as-urbanisation where digitalisation becomes both a product and producer of regional urbanisation.
Reclassifying Fracture Critical Members (Non-Redundant Steel Tension Members) to System Redundant Members in a Steel Arch Bridge
Authors: Mosavi Ardalan , Yuan Hao , Tatarsky Marc , Carter Matt
Published: December 2022

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Load and Resistance Factor Design Bridge Design Specifications define fracture critical members (FCMs) as steel primary members, which are subject to tension and whose failure would probably cause the collapse of a portion of or the entire bridge. FCMs not only lead to additional material procurement and fabrication quality requirements, but bridges with FCMs need to meet the requirements of special mandatory bi-annual hands-on inspections in additions to the routine planned bridge inspections per the National Bridge Inspection Standards. The special mandatory inspections for FCMs are a considerable budgetary constraint for asset owners while still not providing definite safety proofs within the period in between the inspections. Designation of FCMs should be carefully scrutinized in a new bridge constructed with high-quality materials and well-designed details. In 2012, the Federal Highway Administration published a memorandum introducing system redundant members (SRMs), which are identified through refined analysis and exempted from the inspection requirements for FCMs. A new AASHTO Guide Specification released in 2018 outlines a detailed procedure for the reclassification of FCMs as SRMs. This paper summarizes the analyses and results of a detailed FEA performed for a newly designed steel arch bridge. The analyses considered potential failure scenarios at the edge girder of the steel arch bridge and demonstrated the available redundancy in the system to distribute the loads by satisfying the performance criteria set forth in the AASHTO Guide Specification. Reclassification of the FCMs as SRMs could help the asset owner to reallocate their strained resources more efficiently.
Long-Term Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Debridement of Grade 3 or 4 Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions
Authors: Austin Daniel C. , Song Bryant , Rojas Lievano Jorge L. , Rogers Thomas H. , Barlow Jonathan D. , Camp Christopher L. , Morrey Mark E. , Sanchez-Sotelo Joaquin L. , Fitzsimmons James S. , O’Driscoll Shawn W.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Arthroscopic debridement for osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions of the capitellum is a relatively common and straightforward surgical option for failure of nonoperative management. However, the long-term outcomes of this procedure remain unknown.

Hypothesis:

Arthroscopic debridement of capitellar OCD would provide satisfactory long-term improvement in patient-reported outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients aged ≤18 years who underwent arthroscopic debridement procedures for OCD lesions (International Cartilage Repair Society grades 3 and 4) were identified. Procedures included loose body removal when needed and direct debridement of the lesion; marrow stimulation with drilling or microfracture was added at the discretion of each surgeon. The cohort consisted of 53 elbows. Patient evaluation included visual analog scale for pain; motion; subjective satisfaction; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores; reoperation; and rate of return to sports.

Results:

At a mean 11 years of follow-up (range, 5-23 years), the median visual analog scale score for pain was 0, and 96% of patients reported being improved as compared with how they were before surgery. The mean ± SD QuickDASH score was 4 ± 9 points (range, 0-52 points), and 80% of patients returned to their sports of interest. The arc of motion significantly improved from 115°± 28° preoperatively to 130°± 17° at latest follow-up ( P = .026). Seven elbows (13%) required revision surgery for OCD lesions, resulting in high rates of overall survivorship free of revision surgery: 90% (95% CI, 80%-96%) at 5 years and 88% (95% CI, 76%-94%) at 10 years. At final follow-up, 7 all-cause reoperations were performed without revision surgery on the OCD lesion.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic debridement of grade 3 or 4 OCD lesions of the capitellum produced satisfactory patient-reported outcomes in a majority of elbows, although a subset of patients experienced residual symptoms. The inherent selection bias of our cohort should be considered when applying these results to the overall population with OCD lesions, as we do not recommend this procedure for all patients.
Correlation Between Breast Arterial Calcifications and Higher Cardiovascular Risk: Awareness and Attitudes Amongst Canadian Radiologists Who Report Mammography
Authors: Heaney Roisin M. , Zaki-Metias Kaitlin M. , McKee Hayley , Wang Huijuan , Ogunde Barakat , Yong-Hing Charlotte J. , Freitas Vivianne , Ghai Sandeep , Seely Jean M. , Nguyen Elsie T.
Published: December 2022

Background: Breast arterial calcification (BAC) on mammography correlates with increased cardiovascular risk. Reporting BAC is not standard practice. Our study evaluates the awareness of Canadian radiologists who report mammography of the clinical significance of BAC and their attitudes towards reporting BAC compared to their European and American counterparts. Methods: Following local institutional ethics approval, a 25 question survey (SurveyMonkey) was disseminated to Canadian radiologists via provincial and national society email lists. Responses were collected over 5 weeks (April–June 2022). Results: One hundred and eighty-six complete responses were collected. Sixty percent (112/186) were aware of the association between BAC and cardiovascular risk and 16% (29/186) document its presence in mammogram reports. Thirty five percent (65/186) occasionally document BAC if severe or in a young patient. Four percent (7/186) had local departmental guidelines on BAC reporting and 82% (153/186) agreed there is a need for national BAC reporting guidelines. Fewer Canadian radiologists were aware of the association between BAC and cardiovascular risk compared to European radiologists (60% vs 81%), report the presence of BAC compared to both European (15% vs 62%) and American (15% vs 35%) radiologists, and inform the patient of the presence of BAC compared to European radiologists (1% vs 46%). Conclusion: Canadian radiologists who report mammography were less aware of the association between BAC and cardiovascular risk than their European and American counterparts and were less likely to document the presence of BAC. Given the correlation of BAC with increased cardiovascular event risk, there is increased need for awareness as well as national BAC reporting guidelines.
Oral Extramedullary Plasmacytoma Treatment Using a Combination of Marginal Excision and Strontium-90 Therapy in Five Dogs
Authors: Kanwal Mallory , Selting Kimberly A.
Published: December 2022

Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is a benign round cell tumor that is most commonly found in cutaneous locations in dogs and occurs less frequently in the oral cavity. They are highly radiosensitive, are distinct from systemic multiple myeloma syndrome and wide surgical excision is typically curative. This report describes five cases of non-invasive oral EMP in dogs treated with a combination of marginal excision and strontium-90 plesiotherapy. All five cases had narrow or incomplete margins on histopathologic evaluation but experienced no recurrence after combination therapy. Plesiotherapy radiation may offer a potential adjunct treatment for non-invasive oral EMP by providing a superficial dose of radiation that complements a less invasive surgical removal. The combination of plesiotherapy and marginal excision may offer an alternative to wide surgical excision for non-invasive oral EMPs.
Devices for the transport and microbiological detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in sexual health clinic samples: a prospective comparative study
Authors: Jonker Leon , Phillips Matt
Published: December 2022

Background

Propagation and microbiological detection of N. gonorrhoeae can be challenging due to the fastidious nature of the bacterium outside the human host environment. Different sample transport options were evaluated in order to address this issue.

Methods

Symptomatic and high-risk patients consented to take part. Standard practice in clinics involve using a guanine and cytosine selective (GC) plate for transport and incubation. Other devices were assessed in two different studies. MWE’s Sigma VCM™-a transport device for use between clinic and laboratory-was used in one study ( n = 166). In the other, ( n = 102), Biomed’s Intray™ plates were used, which can be used for both initial transport and incubation at the destination laboratory.

Results

In the Sigma VCM™ study, positive results were obtained for 14% (Sigma VCM™), 21% (GC plates); the distribution of outcomes did not significantly differ between the two microbiological sampling methods ( p-value 0.09, Chi-squared test). Concerning the InTray™ sub-study, N. gonorrhoeae was detected in 9% (InTray™), 13% (GC plating) of cases respectively, with again no significant difference between the microbiological sampling methods ( p-value 0.25). Regression analysis identified a significant association between N. gonorrhoeae detection and male patients, absence of dysuria and previous gonorrhoea infection.

Conclusion

No significant difference in rate of microbiological detection of N. gonorrhoeae could be detected between different transport devices in a sexual health clinic setting. Performance appraisal of transport devices for bacterial sexually transmitted infection can inform practitioners’ options regarding said devices.
Research on Evaluation Influence in India: Theorizing Beyond Process and Results to Design
Authors: Goodnight Melissa Rae
Published: December 2022

This study analyzes evaluation influence theories to understand their unified contributions to a conceptual framework for research on evaluation influence in non-western contexts. Specifically, these theories are analyzed according to their usefulness for interpreting the consequences of the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER)—a cyclical, large-scale educational monitoring and evaluation effort in India. An ethnographic case study of ASER facilitates an empirical investigation of the field's evaluation influence theories and uncovers a new source of influence—evaluation design. The study's findings challenge a common belief in the field: that evaluation process and results are the two fountainheads of evaluation impact. Design, as a distinct third source of influence, gives rise to a novel form of evaluation consequence—design diffusion. The phenomenon of design diffusion illuminates why ASER's model for evaluation has been adopted by several other Global South nations.
Social Justice as Ontology: The Intersection of Black Evaluators’ Identities, Roles, and Practice
Authors: Boyce Ayesha S. , Reid Aileen , Avent Cherie , Adetogun Adeyemo , Moller J.R. , Singletary Brianna Hooks
Published: December 2022

Violence, marginalization, oppression, exploitation, erasure, and injustice are cornerstones of the Black experience in the United States. Despite seemingly insurmountable challenges, Black people have worked diligently and competently to earn spaces within the present-day professional arena. While the experiences of Black professionals have been investigated in multiple fields, little is known about Black evaluators. This study aimed to investigate Black evaluators’ experiences in an attempt to understand the intersectionality of their identities, roles, and practice and to ensure voices and contributions of Black evaluators are highlighted. We conducted 26 interviews with Black evaluators across academic, government, nonprofit, philanthropic, and private sectors. We found race and advocate for social justice are central to Black evaluators’ identities, roles, and practice. We developed a thematic framework as a result of our analysis and interpretations of the ways in which Black evaluators’ identities impacted their perceptions of their professional role and practice.
A favipiravir-induced angioedema and urticaria in a COVID-19 patient
Authors: Ergur Ozturk Figen , Ozturk Ayperi , Ates Hale
Published: December 2022

Although favipiravir is a promising drug for coronavirus disease 2019, some adverse effects, including skin lesions, have been reported. A 56-year-old female who was prescribed favipiravir by a filiation team following a positive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 polymerase chain reaction test presented to our hospital. After examination, favipiravir and paracetamol were prescribed. She represented to the hospital with facial swelling and itchy rashes on her forearm. Angioedema and urticaria were diagnosed. Favipiravir was discontinued. Steroid and antihistaminic therapy were administered for angioedema. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of favipiravir-induced angioedema and urticaria in Turkey.
Synthesis, Dynamis, Praxis: Critical Theory’s ongoing search for a concept of society
Authors: Rosa Hartmut , Schulz Peter
Published: December 2022

From its beginning, Critical Theory aimed to explore the laws governing social life as a formational totality and the forces shaping and driving its historical evolution. So the attempt to develop a comprehensive conception of ‘society’ encompassing both its structural as well as its cultural components can be considered one of the defining hallmarks of Critical Theory through all its theoretical and generational variations. But what, then, is Critical Theory’s conception of society? To answer this question, the authors make use of a three-tiered heuristic model distinguishing synthesis (what is society?), dynamis (what are the driving forces of social change?) and praxis ((how) can social change be motivated or influenced by social actors?). In this way, they are able to reconstruct not only the divergences and controversies between the different versions and approaches in Critical Theory across the four generations of authors writing in this tradition, but also four core points of convergence which can serve to differentiate between Critical Theory in the Frankfurt School tradition and other critical theories. These four points, we suggest, should be seen to form the backbone of any valid conception of society in contemporary Critical Theory.
A Systematic Review: Risk and Protective Factors of Elder Abuse for Community-Dwelling Racial Minorities
Authors: Wei Wenxing , Balser Sarah
Published: December 2022

Elder abuse is related to numerous adverse health and mental health conditions in older adults and some studies indicated higher rates of elder abuse in ethnic and racial minority populations than non-Hispanic Whites. This current study aims to summarize the risk and protective factors associated with elder abuse in community-dwelling racial minorities. A systematic review was conducted following Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. AgeLine, Medline, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were searched without limitation on time periods of publication. Two authors independently screened the search results and assessed the eligibility and quality of the retrieved articles. A total of 718 articles were screened and 25 articles were included in the review. The 25 included studies’ publication dates range from 1989 to 2019. Five racial categories were generated: African Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, and racial minorities in Canada. Risk and protective factors of elder abuse and its subtypes (e.g., physical and psychological abuse) for these racial groups were summarized. There are some common risk factors across racial minorities, such as dependence on caregivers and health issues. The review identified gaps and conflicting findings regarding culture and education that are worthy of further investigation. In particular, there is a lack of current research on elder abuse in racial minority older women, race minority subgroups, and protective factors of elder abuse. The results guide helping professionals to consider the role of traditional culture and identify warning signs of potential abuse among racial minority older adults.
Study on tensile properties of carbon fiber/epoxy laminated woven composites with ply splicing
Authors: Fang Qianqian , Chen Li , Wang Weixin , Zhang Changlong
Published: December 2022

Ply splicing design is a crucial technology to realize the precise manufacturing of woven composite components with various complex shapes. This paper reports two ways of splicing, inter-layer splicing, and in-plane splicing. Two factors affecting the tensile properties of carbon fiber/epoxy laminated woven composites with ply splicing are discussed, including the number of continuous fabric layers on the surface and in-plane splicing spacing. The deterioration of the composites induced during the tensile test is characterized by acoustic emission and digital image correlation. The results reveal that the damage of the laminated woven composites with ply splicing occurs mainly at the butt jointing location and leads to fracture failure. Ply splicing has little effect on the tensile modulus of the composites. The tensile modulus is slightly reduced between 2% and 5%. But ply splicing has a more significant effect on its tensile strength. The total number of continuous fabric layers at the splice position approximately determines the strength retention ratio. The more the number of continuous fabric layers on the surface are, the higher the tensile strength of the composites. When the number of continuous fabric layers on the surface is three layers, the tensile strength retention ratio reaches 69%. The larger the splicing spacing is, the better the tensile properties of the composites. When the splicing spacing is increased to 30 mm, the tensile strength retention ratio reaches 77%.
What Causes Seizures in Neurocysticercosis?
Authors: Steyn Teresa Julieta Simões , Awala Amalia Naita , de Lange Anja , Raimondo Joseph Valentino
Published: December 2022

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most prevalent parasitic infection of the central nervous system. It is caused by the presence of larvae of the cestode Taenia solium in the brain. The most common symptom of NCC is seizures, and it is widely considered the world’s leading cause of preventable epilepsy. Despite the prevalence and impact of NCC, a thorough, mechanistic understanding of seizure generation is still lacking. In this review, we address the question “What causes seizures in NCC?” by summarizing and discussing the major theories that seek to explain the seizurogenic and epileptogenic processes in this disorder. In addition, we highlight the potential for recent advances in disease modeling to help accelerate progress in this area.
Anatomic and Biomechanical Study of Thumb Carpometacarpal Dislocations: A Laboratory Study
Authors: Preston Heather , Joines Hannah , Chen Chaoyang , Higginbotham Devan O. , Lemos Stephan E. , Tsai Andrew G.
Published: December 2022

Background:

No previous study recreating an isolated thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) dislocation with or without suture augmentation has been performed in the laboratory. This investigation aimed to evaluate the mechanism and ligamentous complex of isolated thumb CMC dislocations.

Methods:

Biomechanical analysis was performed in 10 cadaveric specimens. A posteriorly directed force or axial loading with hyperflexion through the CMC joint was applied. Load was applied at a rate of 1 mm/s until posterior CMC dislocation was achieved. Maximum load, displacement under nominal loading, stiffness, and mode of failure were recorded. The native ligament was repaired, augmented with high-tensile suture, and testing was repeated.

Results:

Posteriorly directed force produced posterior CMC dislocations, while axial loading and hyperflexion through the CMC joint caused fractures. Load-to-failure of the native CMC joint was 217.76 N (SD = 66.03). Stiffness of the ligamentous complex on average was 18.86 N/mm (SD = 8.83). Mean load-to-failure after repair with suture augmentation was 94.62 N (SD = 39.77), with average stiffness of 8.21 N/mm (SD = 3.06). The native ligament was noted to have greater stiffness ( P = .002) and greater load-to-failure ( P = .0001) than repair with suture augmentation. Maximum displacement-to-failure of the native ligament was 14.5 mm compared with repair with suture augmentation 11.9 mm ( P = .068).

Conclusion:

Isolated CMC dislocation was achieved with a posteriorly directed force rather than hyperflexion of the joint. Ultimate failure load of the repaired ligaments with suture augmentation was about half of that of the native ligaments. Further research into this technique is warranted.
Design and Testing of a Smartphone Application for Real-Time Tracking of CSII and CGM Site Rotation Compliance in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Blanchard John , Ahmed Samir , Clark Brenda , Sanchez Cotto Lourdes , Rangasamy Sampath , Thompson Bithika
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes can be difficult to achieve. One critical aspect of insulin delivery is site rotation, which is necessary to reduce dermatologic complications of repeated insulin infusion. No current application is designed to help patients track sites and instruct on overused sites.

Objective:

The objectives of this study were to (1) design a smartphone app, Insulin Site Guide, to gather real-time information on continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) site location and rotation compliance and instruct subjects on the use of an overused site; (2) conduct a usability study to measure site rotation compliance; and (3) report subject satisfaction with the app.

Design:

The app is installed on the subject’s smartphone. Subjects use the app to record CSII and CGM placement in real-time. Data are sent to the study team at the end of the study. Subjects complete a questionnaire concerning the app.

Results:

We report site rotation compliance data for eight subjects and survey responses for 10 subjects. Initial data from eight subjects indicate a high site rotation compliance of 84% for insulin pumps. In general, the majority of users indicate high satisfaction with the app.

Conclusions:

Insulin Site Guide is a mobile app that uses a novel algorithm to better guide site rotation. Use of the app has the potential to improve site rotation and decrease dermatologic complications of diabetes with long-term use.
Factors Affecting Performance of Insulin Pen Injector Technology: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sparre Thomas , Hammershøy Laura , Steensgaard Dorte Bjerre , Sturis Jeppe , Vikkelsøe Per , Azzarello Antonino
Published: December 2022

Background:

Insulin treatment is an essential hormone replacement therapy for the survival of people with type 1 diabetes and is often used for treatment in type 2 diabetes, particularly as the disease progresses. Advances in insulin therapy have been made since its discovery, including production of human insulin and development of insulin analogs with improved efficacy and safety profiles. The different types of available insulin formulations allow health care professionals to personalize treatment to an individual’s needs. Generally, insulin requires parenteral administration via subcutaneous injection owing to very low oral bioavailability.

Methods:

This article reviews the human, technological, economical, and regulatory factors affecting the performance of insulin pens and the relationship between them. Opportunities and challenges that insulin pen injections may encounter in the future are also considered.

Results:

Insulin delivery devices, together with other factors, influence dose accuracy, convenience, and quality of life, contributing to easier medication administration with high efficacy and safety. For patients, ease of use, fast and accurate drug delivery, and painless injection are the most valuable features of an insulin injection device. For manufacturers, technological feasibility and economic viability also need to be considered when developing injection devices.

Conclusion:

Insulin pen injectors are generally preferred over vial and syringe, although access may be limited in some health care systems. Insulin pen injectors can adapt to different insulin regimens and formulations and have the potential to acquire dosing data in real time.
Functional Performance Tests Reveal Promising Results at 6 Months After Shoulder Stabilization Surgery
Authors: Yildiz Taha Ibrahim , Turhan Egemen , Ocguder Durmus Ali , Yaman Firat , Huri Gazi , Duzgun Irem
Published: December 2022

Background:

Although athletes are mostly allowed to return to play 6 months after shoulder stabilization surgery, there are inadequate data about their functional status during this period.

Hypotheses:

Performance tests would reveal insufficiency in the functional capacity of shoulder 6 months after stabilization surgery.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

A total of 32 male athletes with arthroscopic anterior capsulolabral repair (AACR) were included in the study. Shoulder internal and external rotator (IR-ER) strength was assessed using isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocities preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Shoulder function was assessed with closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability (CKCUES) test, Y balance test-upper quarter (YBT-UQ), and unilateral seated shot-put test (USSPT) at 6 months postoperation. Western Ontario shoulder instability index (WOSI) and Tampa scale of kinesiophobia (TSK) were used for the self-assessment of the shoulder. Mixed-model ANOVA was used to analyze the changes in the IR-ER strength on both shoulders. Limb symmetry index (LSI) was calculated for the IR-ER strength, YBT-UQ, and USSPT scores.

Results:

Shoulder IR strength was higher at 6 months postoperatively compared with preoperatively. The LSI was 76.4% and 76.6% for ER strength, and 94.2% and 94% for IR strength at 60°/s and 180°/s angular velocities, respectively, at the postoperative 6 month timepoint. The mean CKCUES test score was 21.8 ± 2.6 touches and the LSI was 94.7% for the YBT-UQ and 102.5% for the USSPT. WOSI ( P < 0.001) and TSK ( P = 0.001) scores were significantly lower at 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Functional status of the patients with shoulder stabilization surgery improved considerably 6 months after surgery, yet they did not fully recover function.

Clinical Relevance:

Exercise programs focusing on shoulder ER strength and shoulder performance should be emphasized after stabilization surgery.
Experience Matters: Civic Discussion Increases Self-Efficacy and Reduces Forecasted Discomfort in Future Conversations
Authors: Geiger Nathaniel , Swim Janet K. , Mallett Robyn K. , Mulvey Laurie L.
Published: December 2022

Interpersonal conversation about civic issues lays groundwork for cooperation and collective action, yet such conversation is uncommon. Across three studies (total N = 2,066), we find that (a) hesitation to discuss a civic topic is predicted by forecasted discomfort about such conversations (Study 1), (b) individuals tend to overestimate discomfort in such future civic conversations (Study 1), (c) forecasted discomfort is lower for those with greater experience discussing the topic (Study 2) and after a formal discussion experience, especially for those with little prior experience (Study 3), and (d) this negative relationship between experience and forecasted discomfort can be explained by greater perceived ability to discuss the topic (i.e., self-efficacy; Studies 2 and 3). Collectively, results show that forecasted discomfort is associated with reduced willingness to engage in civic conversation, and topic-relevant discussions can reduce forecasted discomfort by boosting self-efficacy, particularly for those for whom discussing the topic is novel.
Utility of dual energy CT in differentiating clot in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Panyaping Theeraphol , Udomkaewkanjana Nuchsarang , Keandoungchun Jesada
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Red blood cells (RBC)-poor thrombi in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) are associated with longer recanalization time for mechanical thrombectomy than RBC-rich thrombi. The purpose of the study was to differentiate between RBC-rich and RBC-poor thrombi using dual energy computed tomography (DECT).

Materials and methods

This retrospective study was conducted on patients with acute arterial occlusion of anterior circulation who underwent DECT cerebral angiography, followed by mechanical thrombectomy with the pathological diagnosis of thrombi, dividing into RBC-rich and RBC-poor thrombi. The CT attenuation values and thrombus enhancement were measured in non-contrast scans and CTA phases at different energy levels and compared between RBC-rich and RBC-poor groups.

Results

Fourteen acute stroke patients were included in the study. There were 7 patients in RBC-rich group and 7 patients in RBC-poor group. The CT attenuation values of RBC-rich thrombi were significantly higher than those of RBC-poor thrombi at energy levels of 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 KeV, with the most significant difference at 80 KeV ( p = 0.032). A cutoff value of 44.1 Hounsfield units (HU) on 80 keV monoenergetic reconstructions was used to distinguish between RBC-rich and RBC-poor thrombi. It achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.878, sensitivity of 85.7%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 92.9%. The degree of enhancement was higher in RBC-poor thrombi than in RBC-rich thrombi, without statistically significant difference.

Conclusion

DECT could help differentiate between RBC-rich and RBC-poor thrombi by using CT attenuation values in non-contrast phase at lower energy levels (40–80 KeV).
Entitled and self-conscious? The ego-centric underpinnings of electoral preferences during the 2020 U.S. election
Authors: Tatum Alexander , Nai Alessandro
Published: December 2022

We investigate whether entitlement (feeling more deserving than others) and several dimensions of self-conscious affect (broadly reflecting responses to shame and guilt) are associated with voting intentions during the 2020 Presidential election in the USA. We utilized a sample of 443 adults recruited through Prolific. The sample was demographically representative with respect to age, gender, and race. Participants were recruited from 12 October 2020 to 15 October 2020, approximately 3 weeks before the national election held on 3 November 2020. Results reveal that higher entitlement beliefs are associated with support for Republicans, and so are shame proneness vis-à-vis behavioral avoidance (desire to hide) and blame externalization. Inversely, guilt proneness and shame proneness vis-à-vis negative self-evaluation is associated with support for Democrats. Results also suggest that shame proneness and blame externalization most closely correspond with voting preference; specifically, negative self-evaluation drives support for Democrats, whereas blame externalization and behavioral avoidance drives support for Republicans. While these effects are often only in the small-to-medium range in terms of magnitude, their implications for a more nuanced understanding of electoral politics—and its pitfalls—are noteworthy.
The use and acceptability of diet-related apps and websites in Australia: Cross-sectional study
Authors: Fewings Abbie , Vandelanotte Corneel , Irwin Christopher , Ting Corine , Williams Edwina , Khalesi Saman
Published: December 2022

Objective

Diet-related apps and websites are developed to help improve dietary intake. The aim of this study is to explore the use and acceptability of diet-related apps and websites in Australia.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, 241 participants (mean age = 40.6 years) completed an online survey about demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours and health concerns, experience and confidence in technology use, and preferences, attitudes and perception of diet app and website use. Descriptive analysis and unadjusted multiple logistic regression were used to explore data.

Results

Overall, 63.5% of participants were current or previous app users. App users were more confident in using technology, more concerned about diet and weight, and more trusting of information provided in diet-related apps compared to non-app users (p ≤ .05). Features such as food tracking, nutrient check and barcode scanning were preferred by both users and non-users. The likelihood of using diet-related apps was higher for those who trust the app information (OR 5.51, 95%CI: 2.40–12.66), often count calories (OR 2.28, 95%CI: 1.01–5.24) and are often on diet (OR 4.16, 95% CI: 1.21–14.21) compared to their counterparts.

Conclusions

More than half of the Australians that participated in this study used diet-related apps and websites. App features that allow the user to accurately record and monitor food intake and scan barcodes may motivate app use. Future public health strategies may take advantage of diet-related apps and websites to improve dietary behaviour at the population level and reduce the burden of obesity and non-communicable diseases.
Why Merit Pay Fails: Comparison of Public and Private School Practices in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Shi (史和佳) Hejia , Wang (王丹) Dan
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Accounts for failures of merit pay in educational settings were stagnated by the “political obstruction hypothesis,” which blamed teacher unions for impeding the merit pay schemes from proper function. It required stronger evidence from both public and private schools to refute this hypothesis.

Design/Approach/Methods

Accountability typology was conceptualized to uncover the power relations underpinning merit pay schemes, and teachers’ motivational status was described from the perspective of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to analyze the corresponding consequences. One public school and three private schools were purposefully sampled, and data included principal interviews, teacher interviews, school documents, and relevant policy documents.

Findings

Our findings suggested an opposite conclusion to the “political obstruction hypothesis” that the more dependent on market, the more intense the conflict between external accountabilities and the nature of teaching. Thus, we supported the “nature of teaching hypothesis” that merit pay was inapplicable in educational settings due to the inherent contradictions between market accountability and professional accountability.

Originality/Value

Policymakers and school administrators had been misled by the neoliberal initiative of borrowing merit pay into educational settings to promote the quality of teaching. Our findings provided strong evidence to refute this hypothesis and to restore the appreciation of professional autonomy.
Thermodynamics and crystal structures of krautite, Mn[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O, koritnigite, Zn[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O and cobaltkoritnigite, Co[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O
Authors: Majzlan Juraj , Plášil Jakub , Dachs Edgar
Published: December 2022

Synthetic samples of krautite, Mn[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O, koritnigite, Zn[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O and cobaltkoritnigite, Co[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O, were used for calorimetric experiments. For krautite and koritnigite, single-crystal X-ray diffraction was used to determine positions of all atoms, including the H atoms. These data allowed the hydrogen-bond network and the function of H2O molecules in these structures to be determined. The structural formulae are Mn4(H2[3]O)4[AsO3(OH)]4and Zn4(H2[3]O)2[AsO3(OH)]4(H2[4]O)2, where[3]H2O and[4]H2O are the ‘transformer’ and ‘non-transformer’ H2O groups, respectively. Even though the principal features of these structures are identical, the details, especially those regarding the H2O groups, differ from one structure to another structure in this group. The solubility products (logKsp) were determined from calorimetric data, that is, from the experimentally measured enthalpies of formation and entropies. They relate to the reactionM[AsO3(OH)]⋅H2O →M2++ HAsO42–+ H2O and are –6.10 for krautite, –6.88 for koritnigite and –6.83 for cobaltkoritnigite. We also estimated the logKspfor magnesiokoritnigite as –2.0. Calculation of phase diagrams shows that all these phases originate under acidic conditions from solutions with high metal and arsenate concentration. They are restricted to local environments, to pockets that maintain such high concentrations over the time necessary for crystallisation of the krautite-group phases.
Patient-reported outcomes to assess dyspnoea in interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension: a systematic literature review of measurement properties
Authors: Lemmers Jacqueline M.J. , Vonk Madelon C. , van den Ende Cornelia H.M.
Published: December 2022

Objective:

This COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health measurement INstruments (COSMIN)-based systematic review aims to identify and summarise the quality of measurement properties of dyspnoea-specific patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD), pulmonary hypertension (PH) or connective tissue diseases (CTDs).

Methods and results:

Relevant articles in PubMed and Embase were screened. Based on COSMIN analysis and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach, overall rating and level of evidence were assessed to formulate recommendations. We identified 26 publications on 10 PROMs. For patients with ILD, including CTD-associated ILD, nine PROMs were evaluated, of which the Dyspnea-12 (D12), EXACT-Respiratory Symptoms Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Breathlessness subscale (ERS-IPF-B), King's Brief Interstitial Lung Disease Health Status Questionnaire breathlessness and activities subscale (KBILD-B) and the University of California San Diego Shortness of Breath Questionnaire (UCSD-SOBQ) had high-quality evidence for sufficient internal consistency, without high-quality evidence of insufficient measurement properties. We reached this same conclusion regarding the D12 for use in patients with PH, including CTD-associated PH. Most PROMs in this systematic review have moderate- or low-quality evidence on construct validity and responsiveness.

Conclusion:

Four dyspnoea-specific PROMs, D12, ERS-IPF-B, KBILD-B and UCSD-SOBQ, can be recommended for use in patients with ILD, including CTD-associated ILD. Of these four, the D12, despite the limited evidence and the lack of evidence on several important domains, is also suitable for use in patients with PH, including CTD-associated PH.
Immune mechanisms in fibrotic pulmonary sarcoidosis
Authors: Weeratunga Praveen , Moller David R. , Ho Ling-Pei
Published: December 2022

Sarcoidosis is an immune-mediated disorder. Its immunopathology has been steadily mapped out over the past few decades. Despite this, the underpinning mechanisms for progressive fibrotic sarcoidosis is an almost uncharted area. Consequently, there has been little change in the clinical management of fibrotic sarcoidosis over the decades and an unfocused search for new therapeutics. In this review, we provide a comprehensive examination of the relevant immune findings in fibrotic and/or progressive pulmonary sarcoidosis and propose a unifying mechanism for the pathobiology of fibrosis in sarcoidosis.
Metabolome and transcriptome profiles in quinoa seedlings in response to potassium supply
Authors: Huang Tingzhi , Zhang Xuesong , Wang Qianchao , Guo Yirui , Xie Heng , Li Li , Zhang Ping , Liu Junna , Qin Peng
Published: December 2022

Background

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a herb within the Quinoa subfamily of Amaranthaceae, with remarkable environmental adaptability. Its edible young leaves and grains are rich in protein, amino acids, microorganisms, and minerals. Although assessing the effects of fertilization on quinoa yield and quality has become an intensive area of research focus, the associated underlying mechanisms remain unclear. As one of the three macro nutrients in plants, potassium has an important impact on plant growth and development. In this study, extensive metabolome and transcriptome analyses were conducted in quinoa seedlings 30 days after fertilizer application to characterize the growth response mechanism to potassium. 

Results

The differential metabolites and genes present in the seedlings of white and red quinoa cultivars were significantly enriched in the photosynthetic pathway. Moreover, the PsbQ enzyme on photosystem II and delta enzyme on ATP synthase were significantly down regulated in quinoa seedlings under potassium deficiency. Additionally, the differential metabolites and genes of red quinoa seedlings were significantly enriched in the arginine biosynthetic pathway.

Conclusions

These findings provide a more thorough understanding of the molecular changes in quinoa seedlings that occur under deficient, relative to normal, potassium levels. Furthermore, this study provides a theoretical basis regarding the importance of potassium fertilizers, as well as their efficient utilization by growing quinoa seedlings.
Markers of immune dysregulation in response to the ageing gut: insights from aged murine gut microbiota transplants
Authors: Giannos Panagiotis , Prokopidis Konstantinos , Isanejad Masoud , Wright Helen L.
Published: December 2022

Background

Perturbations in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota are accompanied by a decline in immune homeostasis during ageing, characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and enhanced innate immunity. Genetic insights into the interaction between age-related alterations in the gut microbiota and immune function remain largely unexplored.

Methods

We investigated publicly available transcriptomic gut profiles of young germ-free mouse hosts transplanted with old donor gut microbiota to identify immune-associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Literature screening of the Gene Expression Omnibus and PubMed identified one murine (Mus musculus) gene expression dataset (GSE130026) that included small intestine tissues from young (5–6 weeks old) germ-free mice hosts that were compared following 8 weeks after transplantation with either old (~ 24-month old; n = 5) or young (5–6 weeks old; n = 4) mouse donor gut microbiota.

Results

A total of 112 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and used to construct a gut network of encoded proteins, in which DEGs were functionally annotated as being involved in an immune process based on gene ontology. The association between the expression of immune-process DEGs and abundance of immune infiltrates from gene signatures in normal colorectal tissues was estimated from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. The analysis revealed a 25-gene signature of immune-associated DEGs and their expression profile was positively correlated with naïve T-cell, effector memory T-cell, central memory T-cell, resident memory T-cell, exhausted T-cell, resting Treg T-cell, effector Treg T-cell and Th1-like colorectal gene signatures.

Conclusions

These genes may have a potential role as candidate markers of immune dysregulation during gut microbiota ageing. Moreover, these DEGs may provide insights into the altered immune response to microbiota in the ageing gut, including reduced antigen presentation and alterations in cytokine and chemokine production.
Evaluating the prognostic value of CD56 in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Liang Tianqi , Peng Zhiyong , Li Chunfu , Huang Junbin , Wang Huabin , Bu Chaoke , Li Jian , Zheng Yongzhi , Feng Xiaoqin , Li Huiping , Chen Chun
Published: December 2022

Background

Many cytogenetic changes and gene mutations are associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) survival outcomes. CD56 is related to poor prognosis when expressed in adult AML patients. However, the prognostic value of CD56 in children with AML has rarely been reported. In this research, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of CD56 in childhood AML.

Methods

The present retrospective study included 145 newly diagnosed pediatric patients with de novo AML (excluding AML-M3) in two hospitals between January 2015 and April 2021.

Results

The total median (range) age was 75 (8–176) months, and the median follow-up time was 35 months. No significant difference in the 3-year overall survival rate was noted between the CD56-positive and CD56-negative groups (67.0% vs. 79.3%, P = 0.157) who received chemotherapy. However, among high-risk patients, the CD56-positive group had a worse overall survival rate and event-free survival rate (P < 0.05). Furthermore, among high-risk patients, the CD56-positive group had higher relapse and mortality rates than the CD56-negative group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

CD56 represents a potential factor of poor prognosis in specific groups of children with AML and should be considered in the risk stratification of the disease. Given the independent prognostic value of CD56 expression, we should consider integrating this marker with some immunophenotypic or cytogenetic abnormalities for comprehensive analysis.