bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Joint Display as an Analytic Process: An Illustration Using Bar Graphs Joint Displays From a Mixed Methods Study of How Beliefs Shape Secondary School Teachers’ Use of Technology
Authors: Haynes-Brown Tashane K. , Fetters Michael D.
Published: February 2021

Qualitative researchers engaged in mixed methods studies need novel approaches for integrating qualitative and quantitative findings during analysis. Joint display visuals have become an integral part of the presentation of the findings of mixed methods studies and can be aptly described as an analytic tool owing to the process involved in building joint displays. In this article, our purpose is to illustrate the iterative process utilized in building joint displays using both bar graphs and observational field notes to understand a specific phenomenon. An explanatory sequential mixed methods study was conducted with Jamaican secondary school teachers that sought to understand how teachers’ beliefs shaped the use of technology. Based on the use of joint display analysis in this study, we illustrate how the insights gleaned and challenges encountered from each iteration of developing successive joint displays helped us to refine our understanding through an assessment of the organizational intent, analytic intent, and effectiveness of the visuals created. By engaging in the process of building successive joint displays, we identified inconsistencies in the findings that would likely not otherwise have been revealed. We learned that the inconsistencies represented two dimensions of the teachers’ beliefs, thus resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of the integrated data. The methodological insights gleaned from each iteration of building joint displays can be used by other researchers engaged in this process and enhance their understanding of the value of joint display as a powerful analytic tool.
Contact pressure of high-voltage DC power relay change and life prediction and structure optimization
Authors: Yu Guo-Fei , Chiu Yi-Jui , Zheng Xiang , Yuan Zhong-Lin , Wang Zhi-Xin
Published: February 2021

To effectively predict the life of high voltage dc power relay, the authors design the structure of the relay to extending its life. The contact failure mechanism of relay products is analyzed by observing the appearance of several contact failures. The electromagnetic-thermal field coupling model is established and the state of heat flow and distribution of temperature increase between electrical and thermal coupling contacts are analyzed through simulations and experiments. An adaptive neural network control system is established to conduct sample training, obtain the best stiffness coefficient of the main spring, and optimize the design of the main spring structure composed of composite springs. The action voltage, release voltage, contact resistance, contact pressure, action time, and release time as characteristic parameters, and the relative error, correlation degree, variance ratio, and small error probability of each characteristic parameter, are calculated. The precision grade index of contact resistance and action time is defined as level 1. The two characteristic parameters are selected as the prediction variables to establish the life-prediction model based on gray theory. The relative error between the predicted and test life is 5.31%–5.6%, indicating that the life-prediction model has high accuracy. The test results show that the combined main spring structure can extend the life of a relay by 18.15%.
BMUS journal club on Twitter: An analysis of the first #BMUS_JC discussions
Authors: Reeve Ruth , Moore Stephen , Kirkpatrick Catherine
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Journal clubs have evolved over recent years within healthcare to encourage continuing professional development. More recently, there has been a move from face-to-face group meetings to virtual groups utilising social media platforms. This article aims to explore the discussions and narrative following the inaugural BMUS journal club, highlighting the key discussions and themes from the participants and to provide a narrative for the future of ultrasound continuing professional development.

Methods

The August 2020 journal club chat was focussed on the article featured in Ultrasound: “Sonographers’ level of autonomy in communication in Australian obstetric settings: Does it affect their professional identity?” by Thomas et al. Data consisting of Twitter correspondence were extracted and analysed from the advanced search function on Twitter using #BMUS_JC thread. An initial review ensured related content was included. A second review and semantic thematic analysis was then conducted on the 123 tweets.

Results

In total, seven overall themes were identified between the three sub-threads within the journal club discussions. Those participating in the Twitter discussion recognised the limitations and barriers for communicating results to patients, acknowledging that training, support and regulatory involvement is required for sonographers to change practice locally and internationally.

Conclusion

The group discussions on Twitter highlight the ongoing issues for sonographers’ professional identity worldwide. Furthermore, our analysis echo other contemporary studies which indicate that Twitter journal clubs act as a fruitful and dynamic source of continuing professional development, particularly in an era where social distancing is encouraged. The outcomes of the first BMUS journal club support the wider evidence that online journal clubs can provide a successful platform for professional discussion and debate.
Model of thermal buoyancy in cavity-ventilated roof constructions
Authors: Säwén Toivo , Stockhaus Martina , Hagentoft Carl-Eric , Schjøth Bunkholt Nora , Wahlgren Paula
Published: February 2021

Timber roof constructions are commonly ventilated through an air cavity beneath the roof sheathing in order to remove heat and moisture from the construction. The driving forces for this ventilation are wind pressure and thermal buoyancy. The wind driven ventilation has been studied extensively, while models for predicting buoyant flow are less developed. In the present study, a novel analytical model is presented to predict the air flow caused by thermal buoyancy in a ventilated roof construction. The model provides means to calculate the cavity Rayleigh number for the roof construction, which is then correlated with the air flow rate. The model predictions are compared to the results of an experimental and a numerical study examining the effect of different cavity designs and inclinations on the air flow rate in a ventilated roof subjected to varying heat loads. Over 80 different test set-ups, the analytical model was found to replicate both experimental and numerical results within an acceptable margin. The effect of an increased total roof height, air cavity height and solar heat load for a given construction is an increased air flow rate through the air cavity. On average, the analytical model predicts a 3% higher air flow rate than found in the numerical study, and a 20% lower air flow rate than found in the experimental study, for comparable test set-ups. The model provided can be used to predict the air flow rate in cavities of varying design, and to quantify the impact of suggested roof design changes. The result can be used as a basis for estimating the moisture safety of a roof construction.
From Gaze Perception to Social Cognition: The Shared-Attention System
Authors: Stephenson Lisa J. , Edwards S. Gareth , Bayliss Andrew P.
Published: February 2021

When two people look at the same object in the environment and are aware of each other’s attentional state, they find themselves in a shared-attention episode. This can occur through intentional or incidental signaling and, in either case, causes an exchange of information between the two parties about the environment and each other’s mental states. In this article, we give an overview of what is known about the building blocks of shared attention (gaze perception and joint attention) and focus on bringing to bear new findings on the initiation of shared attention that complement knowledge about gaze following and incorporate new insights from research into the sense of agency. We also present a neurocognitive model, incorporating first-, second-, and third-order social cognitive processes (the shared-attention system, or SAS), building on previous models and approaches. The SAS model aims to encompass perceptual, cognitive, and affective processes that contribute to and follow on from the establishment of shared attention. These processes include fundamental components of social cognition such as reward, affective evaluation, agency, empathy, and theory of mind.
Disentangling practitioners’ understandings of child sexual exploitation: The risks of assuming otherwise?
Authors: Weston Samantha , Mythen Gabe
Published: February 2021

This article reports findings from a qualitative study investigating the efficacy and the effects of a child sexual exploitation awareness raising intervention with young people. Drawing on in-depth interviews with members of a multi-agency team set up to prevent child sexual exploitation, we elucidate the way in which practitioners communicate the problem of child sexual exploitation and how risk registers are deployed to assess the dangerousness of young people’s behaviours. In examining practitioners’ understandings of child sexual exploitation, we illuminate the ways in which educative interventions in this domain are informed by a confluence of policy guidelines and personal/experiential perceptions. Unravelling the tensions arising between these two frames of interpretation, we illustrate that – despite routine recourse to embedded professional knowledge – underlying moral and cultural assumptions alongside anxieties about childhood sexuality influence practitioners’ understandings of the nature of risk, who is at risk and the context in which risks manifest themselves.
Stattic alleviates acute hepatic damage induced by LPS/d-galactosamine in mice
Authors: Li Sijia , Hu Kai , Li Longjiang , Shen Yi , Huang Jiayi , Tang Li , Zhang Li , Shao Ruyue , Lu Han , Yang Yongqiang
Published: February 2021

Increasing evidence indicates that signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a vital transcription factor, plays crucial roles in the regulation of inflammation. STAT3 has become a novel therapeutic target for intervention in inflammation-related disorders. However, it remains unclear whether STAT3 plays a part in acute hepatic damage. To investigate the effects of STAT3 here, LPS/d-GalN-induced hepatic damage was induced in mice, the STAT3 inhibitor Stattic was administered, and the degree of liver injury, inflammation, and hepatocyte apoptosis were investigated. The results showed that Stattic mitigated the hepatic morphologic abnormalities and decreased the level of aminotransferase in LPS/D-GalN-insulted mice. The results also indicated that Stattic decreased the levels of TNF-α and IL-6, prevented the activation of the caspase cascade, suppressed cleavage of PARP, and decreased the quantity of TUNEL-positive cells. These results suggest that Stattic provided protective benefits in LPS/d-GalN-induced hepatic damage, and the protective effects might be associated with its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Therefore, STAT3 might become a novel target for intervening in inflammation-based and apoptosis-based hepatic disorders.
Assessment and review of treatment for secondary spontaneous pneumothorax using medical thoracoscopy-assisted argon plasma coagulation in association with autologous blood pleurodesis
Authors: Zhang Lei , Xie Tian , Fu Yihui , Wu Haihong
Published: February 2021

Aims:

To evaluate the efficacy of medical thoracoscopy-assisted argon plasma coagulation in association with autologous blood pleurodesis in spontaneous pneumothorax.

Patients and methods:

Three male patients with spontaneous pneumothorax were treated; medical thoracoscopy-assisted argon plasma coagulation combined with autologous blood pleurodesis was conducted for all patients whose duration of the air leak exceeded 7 days. We systematically reviewed all of the relevant literature to analyze and sum up the treatments of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Results:

The air leaks were all sealed and no recurrence of pneumothorax was reported. No complications of fever, bleeding, or signs of infection were observed during the process.

Conclusion:

The authors believe that the combination of medical thoracoscopy-assisted argon plasma coagulation and autologous blood pleurodesis is safe and effective. However, due to the number of patients included in this uncontrolled case study, more cases will be collected in the future. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Emotions as Overlapping Causal Networks of Emotion Components: Implications and Methodological Approaches
Authors: Lange Jens , Zickfeld Janis H.
Published: February 2021

A widespread perspective describes emotions as distinct categories bridged by fuzzy boundaries, indicating that emotions are distinct and dimensional at the same time. Theoretical and methodological approaches to this perspective still need further development. We conceptualize emotions as overlapping networks of causal relationships between emotion components—networks representing distinct emotions share components with and relate to each other. To investigate this conceptualization, we introduce network analysis to emotion research and apply it to the reanalysis of a data set on multiple positive emotions. Specifically, we describe the estimation of networks from data, and the detection of overlapping communities of nodes in these networks. The network perspective has implications for the understanding of distinct emotions, their co-occurrence, and their measurement.
User involvement before the development of an indoor RPAS for the creative industries
Authors: de-Miguel-Molina Blanca , de-Miguel-Molina María , Santamarina-Campos Virginia , Segarra-Oña Marival
Published: February 2021

This paper presents user needs and preferences gathered prior to the development of an indoor remotely piloted air system. A literature review was carried out to analyse previous studies about the involvement of users in the design of indoor unmanned aerial vehicles. Subsequently, the results of these user needs obtained from three focus groups held in European countries (Belgium, Spain and United Kingdom) are presented here. Through a content analysis of the information obtained in the focus groups, 40 codes and 4 variables were defined and used to examine the differences between types of users and their previous experience with drones. The literature review gave support to the results obtained through users’ involvement in the features to be included in a new unmanned aerial vehicle. Non-parametric tests and qualitative comparative analysis were used to analyse the information gathered in the focus groups. The results revealed few differences between artists working in creative industries and drone operators working for the creative industries. These differences affected features such as detecting and avoiding obstacles, which requires the inclusion of sensors. In addition, previous experience with drones was found to be a sufficient condition to explain greater concerns over safety, ethical and security issues in indoor environments.
Working with healthcare professionals to promote physical activity
Authors: Vishnubala D , Pringle A
Published: February 2021

The UK Chief Medical Officer guidelines provide convincing evidence of the role of physical activity (PA) in the prevention and management of a number of long-term conditions. Yet physical inactivity remains an important public health priority. Healthcare professionals (HCP) have been identified as being very important for the promotion of PA to their patients. Yet a number of barriers are faced by HCP in this respect including awareness, knowledge, self-efficacy, perceived competence, and time. This paper aims to share current projects and practices and reflect on the challenges of changing the behaviour of HCP to provide physical activity advice.
Desafíos y aprendizajes para la promoción de la salud durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Chile. Un análisis de experiencias locales desde la salud colectiva
Authors: Anigstein Maria Sol , Burgos Soledad , Gay Sebastián Medina , Pesse-Sorensen Karen , Espinoza Pamela , Toledo Carolina
Published: February 2021

La Promoción de la Salud (PS) es una función esencial de la salud pública que se ha puesto en tensión frente a la pandemia de la COVID-19, dado que los discursos y estrategias basados en la prevención y curación de la enfermedad han invisibilizado las condiciones de vida e inequidad que son centrales para la PS. La salud colectiva latinoamericana plantea cuestionamientos prácticos y epistemológicos sobre las acciones ante la epidemia en los países del Sur Global, proponiendo enfoques alternativos al paradigma biomédico y a lo que este entiende como PS. Desde la salud colectiva, la PS tiene como elementos centrales la autonomía de las comunidades, la importancia de sus saberes, y el fomento de acciones colectivas territoriales. Este artículo, a través de una cronología crítica de la pandemia en dos territorios, describe situaciones documentadas que ponen en evidencia el despliegue de condiciones esenciales de posibilidad para una PS desde la salud colectiva, es decir, el papel de la justicia social en la organización comunitaria, la perspectiva territorial y los procesos emancipatorios y de construcción de autonomía. Los casos analizados corresponden a un territorio insular del sur de Chile y a una comuna urbana de la capital del país, elaborados mediante el involucramiento directo de los investigadores y una revisión documental y de prensa. Sus antecedentes y contextualización evidencian las modalidades concretas que toma la PS durante la pandemia en dos contextos con características diversas, permitiendo identificar desafíos y arribar a aprendizajes iniciales sobre el desarrollo de una PS territorialmente situada.
Elevated risk of colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers among HCV, HBV and/or HIV (co)infected individuals in a population based cohort in Canada
Authors: Darvishian Maryam , Butt Zahid A. , Wong Stanley , Yoshida Eric M. , Khinda Jaskaran , Otterstatter Michael , Yu Amanda , Binka Mawuena , Rossi Carmine , McKee Geoff , Pearce Margo , Alvarez Maria , Wong Jason , Cook Darrel , Grennan Troy , Buxton Jane , Tyndall Mark , Woods Ryan , Krajden Mel , Bhatti Parveen , Janjua Naveed Z.
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Studies of the impact of hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HIV mono and co-infections on the risk of cancer, particularly extra-hepatic cancer, have been limited and inconsistent in their findings.

Methods:

In the British Columbia Hepatitis Testers Cohort, we assessed the risk of colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers in association with HCV, HBV and HIV infection status. Using Fine and Gray adjusted proportional subdistribution hazards models, we assessed the impact of infection status on each cancer, accounting for competing mortality risk. Cancer occurrence was ascertained from the BC Cancer Registry.

Results:

Among 658,697 individuals tested for the occurrence of all three infections, 1407 colorectal, 1294 liver, and 489 pancreatic cancers were identified. Compared to uninfected individuals, the risk of colorectal cancer was significantly elevated among those with HCV (Hazard ration [HR] 2.99; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.55–3.51), HBV (HR 2.47; 95% CI 1.85–3.28), and HIV mono-infection (HR 2.30; 95% CI 1.47–3.59), and HCV/HIV co-infection. The risk of liver cancer was significantly elevated among HCV and HBV mono-infected and all co-infected individuals. The risk of pancreatic cancer was significantly elevated among individuals with HCV (HR 2.79; 95% CI 2.01–3.70) and HIV mono-infection (HR 2.82; 95% CI 1.39–5.71), and HCV/HBV co-infection.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Compared to uninfected individuals, the risk of colorectal, pancreatic and liver cancers was elevated among those with HCV, HBV and/or HIV infection. These findings highlight the need for targeted cancer prevention and diligent clinical monitoring for hepatic and extrahepatic cancers in infected populations.
Ocular adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a novel multidisciplinary management algorithm
Authors: Shahzad Orthi , Thompson Nicola , Clare Gerry , Welsh Sarah , Damato Erika , Corrie Philippa
Published: February 2021

Ocular immune-related adverse events (IrAEs) associated with use of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) in cancer therapeutics are relatively rare, occurring in approximately 1% of treated patients. Recognition and early intervention are essential because the degree of tissue damage may be disproportionate to the symptoms, and lack of appropriate treatment risks permanent loss of vision. International guidelines on managing ocular IrAEs provide limited advice only. Importantly, local interventions can be effective and may avoid the need for systemic corticosteroids, thereby permitting the continuation of CPIs. We present a single institution case series of eight affected patients managed by our multidisciplinary team. Consistent with previously published series and case reports, we identified anterior uveitis as the most common ocular IrAE associated with CPIs requiring intervention. Based on our experience, as well as published guidance, we generated a simple algorithm to assist clinicians efficiently manage patients developing ocular symptoms during treatment with CPIs. In addition, we make recommendations for optimising treatment of uveitis and address implications for ongoing CPI therapy.
Intra- and inter-rater reliability of the Behaviour Mapping Schedule: A direct observational tool for classifying children’s play behaviour
Authors: Dankiw Kylie A , Baldock Katherine L , Kumar Saravana , Tsiros Margarita D
Published: February 2021

Identifying and describing children’s play behaviours is an important component of evaluating child development. The Behaviour Mapping Schedule is a direct observational tool which aims to describe and quantify children’s play behaviours but is yet to undergo reliability testing. This study aimed to determine the intra- and inter-rater reliability of the Behaviour Mapping Schedule. Twelve children aged 3–5 years were each video recorded for one 20-minute playtime period at a purposively selected Community Children’s Centre in Adelaide, South Australia. The video recordings were coded independently by two raters against 23 behaviour codes. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated. Intra-rater ICCs for nearly 70% of the behaviour codes were considered ‘excellent’; likewise, for inter-rater ICCs on more than 50% of the behaviour codes. Overall, the Behaviour Mapping Schedule is a reliable tool for observing children’s play behaviour; however, additional training resources may be useful to further strengthen inter-rater reliability.
Emerging Diabetic Foot Ulcer Microbiome Analysis Using Cutting Edge Technologies
Authors: Schmidt Brian M.
Published: February 2021

One of the most prevalent complications of diabetes mellitus are diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Diabetic foot ulcers represent a complex condition placing individuals at-risk for major lower extremity amputations and are an independent predictor of patient mortality. DFU heal poorly when standard of care therapy is applied. In fact, wound healing occurs only approximately 30% within 12 weeks and only 45% regardless of time when standard of care is utilized. Similarly, diabetic foot infections occur in half of all DFU and conventional microbiologic cultures can take several days to process before a result is known. DFU represent a significant challenge in this regard because DFU often demonstrate polymicrobial growth, become resistant to preferred antibiotic therapy, and do not inform providers about long-term prognosis. In addition, conventional culture yields may be affected by the timing of antibiotic administration and collection of tissue for analysis. This may lead to suboptimal antibiotic administration or debilitating amputations. The microbiome of DFU is a new frontier to better understand the interactions between host organisms and pathogenic ones. Newer molecular techniques are readily available to assist in analyzing the constituency of the microbiome of DFU. These emerging techniques have already been used to study the microbiome of DFU and have clinical implications that may alter standard of care practice in the near future. Here emerging molecular techniques that can provide clinicians with rapid DFU-related-information and help prognosticate outcomes in this vulnerable patient population are presented.
Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusions vs. Multiple Daily Injections of Insulin in Hospitalized Patients: Glycemic Trends in the First 24 Hours of Admission
Authors: Halstrom Amanda , Moledina Iram , Peragallo-Dittko Virginia , Ancona Karena , Islam Shahidul , Klek Stanislaw , Rothberger Gary
Published: February 2021

Background:

Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) is a common diabetes treatment modality. Glycemic outcomes of patients using CSII in the first 24 hours of hospitalization have not been well studied. This timeframe is of particular importance because insulin pump settings are programmed to achieve tight outpatient glycemic targets which could result in hypoglycemia when patients are hospitalized.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study evaluated 216 hospitalized adult patients using CSII and 216 age-matched controls treated with multiple daily injections (MDI) of insulin. Patients using CSII did not make changes to pump settings in the first 24 hours of admission. Blood glucose (BG) values within the first 24 hours of admission were collected. The primary outcome was frequency of hypoglycemia (BG < 70 mg/dL). Secondary outcomes were frequency of severe hypoglycemia (BG < 40 mg/dL) and hyperglycemia (BG ≥ 180 mg/dL).

Results:

There were significantly fewer events of hypoglycemia [incident rate ratio (IRR) 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42–0.88, p = 0.007] and hyperglycemia (IRR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65–0.96, p = 0.02) in the CSII group compared to the MDI group. There was a trend toward fewer events of severe hypoglycemia in the CSII group (IRR 0.15, 95% CI 0.02–0.93, p = 0.06).

Conclusions:

Patients using CSII experienced fewer events of both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in the first 24 hours of hospital admission than those treated with MDI. Our study demonstrates that CSII use is safe and effective for the treatment of diabetes within the first 24 hours of hospital admission.
Analysis of the Waste Volume and CO2-Equivalent Caused by the Use of Selected Patch Pumps
Authors: Winkelkötter Jana , Reitz Thore
Published: February 2021

Background:

The use of tube-free insulin pumps is increasing. To protect the environment, the use of resources and the amount of emissions into the environment should be kept as low as possible when designing these systems. In addition to basic waste avoidance, the composition of the waste produced must be considered.

Methods:

To compare current tube-free pumps from an ecological standpoint, a tube-free insulin pump with a modular design and two non-modular tube-free pumps were subjected to manual separation, manual sorting, characterization, and mass determination. The annual waste volume of a user was measured, and the recyclability was assessed. The global warming potential (GWP) resulting from extraction of raw materials, energetic utilization of waste, and landfill of the incineration residues was balanced.

Results:

For the modular tube-free pump, a total waste volume of 5.5 kg/a (recycling percentage 44.3%) was determined. The non-modular systems generated 4.9 kg/a (recycling percentage 14.6%) and 5.1 kg/a (recycling percentage 16.0%) waste. The product-specific GWP of the modular system was approximately 50% lower than that of the non-modular systems; the packaging-specific GWP was 2.5 times higher. In total, a GWP of 13.6 kg CO2-equivalent per year could be determined for the modular system and a GWP of 15.5 kg CO2-equivalent per year for the non-modular systems.

Conclusions:

Although the modular micropump has a higher total waste volume, a greater ecological potential can be attributed to it. This is based on the recyclability of the system due to its modularity and the possible reduction of packaging waste.
Blue Tansy Essential Oil: Chemical Composition, Repellent Activity Against Aedes aegypti and Attractant Activity for Ceratitis capitata
Authors: Stappen Iris , Wanner Juergen , Tabanca Nurhayat , Bernier Ulrich R. , Kendra Paul E.
Published: February 2021

Blue tansy essential oil (BTEO) ( Tanacetum annuum L.) was analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID using two different capillary column stationary phases. Sabinene (14.0%), camphor (13.6%), myrcene (8.0%), β-pinene (7.7%), and chamazulene (6.9%) were the main components using an SE52 column (non-polar). On a polar CW20M phase column, sabinene (15.1%), camphor (14.4%), α-phellandrene (7.9%), β-pinene (7.7%), and myrcene (6.9%) were the most abundant compounds. To assess the oil for potential applications in integrated pest management strategies, behavioral bioassays were conducted to test for repellency against yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti, and for attractant activity for Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata. Results showed that BTEO was not effective in repelling Ae. aegypti (minimum effective dosage [MED]: 0.625 ± 0.109 mg/cm2 compared with the standard insect repellent DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide). In assays with male C. capitata, BTEO displayed mild attraction compared with two positive controls (essential oils from tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia and African ginger bush Tetradenia riparia). Additional studies are needed to identify the specific attractant chemicals in BTEO and to determine if they confer a synergistic effect when combined with other known attractants for C. capitata. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first investigation of BTEO for repellency against the mosquito vector Ae. aegypti and for attractancy to C. capitata, a major agricultural pest worldwide.
A New Brominated Norsesquiterpene Glycoside From the Rhizomes of Acorus tatarinowii Schott
Authors: Hao Zhi-You , Ni Gang , Liang Dong , Liu Yan-Fei , Zhang Chun-Lei , Wang Yan , Zhang Qing-Jian , Chen Ruo-Yun , Yu De-Quan
Published: February 2021

A new brominated norsesquiterpene glycoside, acoruside (1), has been isolated from the rhizomes of Acorus tatarinowii Schott, together with 8 known compounds (2-9). Their structures were elucidated mainly based on 1-dimensional (1D) and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The absolute configuration of compound 1 was determined by comparing its experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism spectra. The in vitro tests indicated that at 10 µM, compounds 2, 3, and 4 aggravated serum deprivation injuries of PC12 cells, compound 2 aggravated rotenone-induced injuries of PC12 cells, and compounds 3 and 4 aggravated the oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced injuries of PC12 cells.
Collaboration Consequences: New Public Management and Police-Academic Partnerships
Authors: Sanders Carrie B. , Langan Debra
Published: February 2021

With increasing pressure on public organizations to demonstrate accountability, police services and public universities are being tasked with demonstrating how their institutional strategies are effective and economically efficient. In this paper, we draw on our own research collaborations with two different Canadian police services (Bluewater and Greenfield) on a similar community crime prevention strategy, Situation Tables. We illustrate how new public management practices are embedded in the political, economic, and organizational contexts that have inspired police-academic partnerships and invigorated the evidence-based policing movement in Canada. Our analysis illustrates how our partnerships were influenced by the performance strand of new public management that prioritizes the quantification of measures of outputs over qualitative evaluations of impact. We argue that these practices, if not interrogated, can jeopardize the integrity of evidence-based practice and policy development. Academic freedom must be retained when partnering with the police to ensure an examination of the implications of police practices.
Opioid Consumption Patterns and Prolonged Opioid Use Among Opioid-Naïve Ankle Fracture Patients
Authors: Skibicki Hope , Saini Sundeep , Rogero Ryan , Nicholson Kristen , Shakked Rachel J. , Fuchs Daniel , Winters Brian S. , Raikin Steven M. , Pedowitz David I. , Daniel Joseph N.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Previous literature has demonstrated an association between acute opioid exposure and the risk of long-term opioid use. Here, the investigators assess immediate postoperative opioid consumption patterns as well as the incidence of prolonged opioid use among opioid-naïve patients following ankle fracture surgery.

Methods

Included patients underwent outpatient open reduction and internal fixation of an ankle or tibial plafond fracture over a 1-year period. At patients’ first postoperative visit, opioid pills were counted and standardized to the equivalent number of 5-mg oxycodone pills. Prolonged use was defined as filling a prescription for a controlled substance more than 90 days after the index procedure, tracked by the New Jersey Prescription Drug Monitoring Program up to 1 year postoperatively.

Results

At the first postoperative visit, 173 patients consumed a median of 24 out of 40 pills prescribed. The initial utilization rate was 60%, and 2736 pills were left unused. In all, 32 (18.7%) patients required a narcotic prescription 90 days after the index procedure. Patients with a self-reported history of depression (P = .11) or diabetes (P = .07) demonstrated marginal correlation with prolonged narcotic use.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that, on average, patients utilize significantly fewer opioid pills than prescribed and that many patient demographics are not significant predictors of continued long-term use following outpatient ankle fracture surgery. Large variations in consumption rates make it difficult for physicians to accurately prescribe and predict prolonged narcotic use.

Level of Evidence:

Level III
Acetabular Cartilage Thickness Differs Among Cam, Pincer, or Mixed-Type Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Descriptive Study Using In Vivo Ultrasonic Measurements During Surgical Hip Dislocation
Authors: Steppacher Simon Damian , Meier Malin Kristin , Albers Christoph Emanuel , Tannast Moritz , Siebenrock Klaus Arno
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate acetabular cartilage thickness among (1) 8 measurement locations on the lunate surface and (2) different types of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

Design

Prospective descriptive study comparing in vivo measured acetabular cartilage thickness using a validated ultrasonic device during surgical hip dislocation in 50 hips. Measurement locations included the anterior/posterior horn and 3 locations on each peripheral and central aspect of the acetabulum. The clock system was used for orientation. Thickness was compared among cam (11 hips), pincer (8 hips), and mixed-type (31 hips) of FAI. Mean age was 31 ± 8 (range, 18-49) years. Hips with no degenerative changes were included (Tönnis stage = 0).

Results

Acetabular cartilage thickness ranged from 1.7 mm to 2.7 mm and differed among the 8 locations ( P < 0.001). Thicker cartilage was found on the peripheral aspect at 11 and 1 o’clock positions (mean of 2.4 mm and 2.7 mm, respectively). At 5 out of 8 locations of measurement (anterior and posterior horn, 1 o’clock peripheral, 12 and 2 o’clock central), cartilage thickness was thinner in hips with pincer impingement compared to cam and/or mixed-type of FAI ( P ranging from <0.001 to 0.031). No difference in thickness existed between cam and mixed-type of impingement ( P = 0.751).

Conclusion

Acetabular cartilage thickness varied topographically and among FAI types. This study provides first baseline information about topographical cartilage thickness in FAI measured in vivo. Thinner cartilage thickness in pincer deformities could be misinterpreted as joint degeneration and could therefore have an impact on indication for hip preserving surgery.
Structural Morphology of Rabbit Patella and Suprapatella Cartilage by Microscopic MRI and Polarized Light Microscopy
Authors: Mantebea Hannah , Batool Syeda , Hammami Mouhamad , Xia Yang
Published: February 2021

Objective

In order to appreciate the roles articular cartilage of sesamoid bones and sesamoid fibrocartilage play in anatomy and pathology, the articular cartilage of the patella ( n = 4) and suprapatella ( n = 4) (a sesamoid fibrocartilage) of 12 to 14 weeks old New Zealand rabbits were studied qualitatively and quantitatively.

Design/Method

The intact knee joints and block specimens from the joints were imaged using microscopic magnetic resonance imaging (µMRI) at a 97.6-µm pixel resolution for the former and 19.5-µm resolution for the latter. Histological sections were made out of the µMRI-imaged specimens, which were imaged using polarized light microscopy (PLM) at 0.25-, 1-, and 4-µm pixel resolutions.

Results

The patella cartilage varied in thickness across the medial to lateral ends of the sesamoid bone with the central medial aspect slightly thicker than the lateral aspect. The suprapatella fibrocartilage decreased proximally away from the knee joint. Quantitative results of patellar cartilage showed strong dependence of fiber orientation with the tissue depth. Three histological zones can be clearly observed, which are similar to articular cartilage from other large animals. The sesamoid fibrocartilage has one thin surface layer (10 µm thick) of parallel-arranged structured fibers followed immediately by the majority of random fibers in bulk tissue. T2 relaxation time anisotropy was observed in the patellar cartilage but not in the bulk fibrocartilage.

Conclusion

Given the different functions of these 2 different types of cartilages in joint motion, these quantitative results will be beneficial to future studies of joint diseases using rabbits as the animal model.
Rheumatic immune-related adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors compared with placebo in oncologic patients: a systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Zhou Ziyue , Wang Li , Li Mengtao , Zhang Fengchun , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: February 2021

Objective:

We aim to characterize the incidence and relative risk of rheumatic and systemic immune-related adverse effects (irAEs) among immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy compared with those after placebo treatment.

Methods:

Randomized clinical trial studies with placebo control with the following keywords were searched from Embase, PubMed, Cochrane databases: immune checkpoint inhibitors, neoplasms, randomized controlled trials, and adverse effects.

Results:

Among the 5444 published and 316 registration records, nine placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials met our selection criteria, and included data from 5560 patients. Compared with placebo use, using ICIs increases the risk of overall-rheumatic irAEs. The incidence and relative risk of all-grade rheumatic irAEs were 18.40% [95% confidence interval (CI) 12.16–25.59%, p < 0.01] and 2.30 (95% CI 1.32–4.02), respectively, while musculoskeletal irAEs were 11.30% (95% CI 9.76–12.85%) and 1.01 (95% CI 0.84–1.22). The incidence and relative risk of severe rheumatic irAEs were 5.72% (95% CI 3.92–7.82%), and 8.29 (95% CI 3.75–18.35), respectively. Arthralgia was the most common rheumatic irAE (incidence 11.00%, 95% CI 9.55–12.64%; relative risk 0.99, 95% CI 0.82–1.19), although usually not severe. Colitis (incidence 3.23%, 95% CI 1.27–7.98%; relative risk 6.53, 95% CI 2.66–16.04) and pneumonitis (incidence 3.11%, 95% CI 1.56–6.21; relative risk 4.04, 95% CI 1.65–9.89) were commonly observed and tended to be severe. Hepatitis, hypophysitis, thyroiditis, and myositis were rare and less recorded, yet can be severe and life threatening. Other extremely rare severe rheumatic irAEs included sarcoidosis ( n = 11), autoimmune arthritis ( n = 8), autoimmune uveitis ( n = 3), autoimmune pericarditis, bursitis, osteochondrosis, psoriasis, polymyalgia rheumatica, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and Sjögren syndrome ( n = 1, each).

Conclusion:

ICI therapy increased the incidence and relative risk of all-grade and severe rheumatic irAEs. Arthralgia was the most commonly observed non-severe irAE, while colitis and pneumonitis were commonly observed severe irAEs. Rare rheumatic irAEs like hepatitis, hypophysitis, thyroiditis, and myositis warrant special attention.
Cell-assembled extracellular matrix (CAM) sheet production: Translation from using human to large animal cells
Authors: Torres Yoann , Gluais Maude , Da Silva Nicolas , Rey Sylvie , Grémare Agathe , Magnan Laure , Kawecki Fabien , L’Heureux Nicolas
Published: February 2021

We have created entirely biological tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) using sheets of cell-assembled extracellular matrix (CAM) produced by human fibroblasts in vitro. A large animal TEVG would allow long-term pre-clinical studies in a clinically relevant setting (graft size and allogeneic setting). Therefore, canine, porcine, ovine, and human skin fibroblasts were compared for their ability to form CAM sheets. Serum sourcing greatly influenced CAM production in a species-dependent manner. Ovine cells produced the most homogenous and strongest animal CAM sheets but remained ≈3-fold weaker than human sheets despite variations of serum, ascorbate, insulin, or growth factor supplementations. Key differences in cell growth dynamics, tissue development, and tissue architecture and composition were observed between human and ovine. This study demonstrates critical species-to-species differences in fibroblast behavior and how they pose a challenge when attempting to substitute animal cells for human cells during the development of tissue-engineered constructs that require long-term cultures.
Retrograde endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein using the superficial inferior epigastric vein as access vessel illustrated by a case report
Authors: Whiteley Mark S , Davies Charlotte E
Published: February 2021

Endovenous thermal ablation is a first-line treatment for symptomatic varicose veins due to truncal vein reflux. Ablation of an incompetent great saphenous vein is usually performed from distally, with the vein access at the lowest point of reflux, or just below the knee. Occasionally there are patients in whom the great saphenous vein is difficult to access distally for reasons such as small vein diameter, scar tissue, vasospasm, difficult anatomy or multiple attempts with haematoma formation. In such cases, we access the great saphenous vein in a retrograde fashion by percutaneous cannulation of the superficial inferior epigastric vein, passing the catheter into the great saphenous vein just distal to the saphenofemoral junction and then down the vein to the required distal position. Ablation can then be performed, stopping the ablation in the great saphenous vein just distal to the junction of superficial inferior epigastric vein and great saphenous vein. We present a patient to illustrate our technique.
Workforce challenges in digital health implementation: How are clinical psychology training programmes developing digital competences?
Authors: Pote Helen , Rees Annabel , Holloway-Biddle Charley , Griffith Emma
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Digital practice in psychological services is a rapidly expanding and innovative area which is supporting continuation of clinical provision during the COVID-19 pandemic. Training the workforce to deliver safe and effective online psychological provision is key to service success and relies on accurate mapping of competences and current training needs. This paper discusses the initial stage for developing the first digital mental health competence framework for applied psychology in the UK. It reports on the digital training currently provided nationally and barriers/facilitators to acquiring these competencies.

Methods

Eighteen of the thirty UK Clinical Psychology Doctoral training programmes completed a 16-item survey. This mapped current digital health teaching and skills acquisition for trainee Clinical Psychologists throughout their 3-year pre-registration training. Furthermore, potential barriers and facilitators to developing these digital skills for both trainee and qualified Clinical Psychologists were investigated.

Results

The quantitative analysis highlighted the majority of respondents viewed developing digital mental health competencies with importance, but were not integrating this into teaching or clinical placements activity. The qualitative, inductive content analysis revealed seven key themes influencing the development of digital mental health skills, with the majority of respondents identifying with two themes; the need for practice guidelines (50% of respondents) and opportunities for digital mental health experience.

Conclusions

The findings suggest the need for a greater focus on developing the digital health knowledge, skills, and confidence across trainee and qualified Clinical Psychologists. Strategic analysis indicated the need to develop a framework for digital mental health competences across the curriculum and placement experience. Easily accessible learning packages may support the implementation of training nationally.
Functional MRI evaluation of the effect of carotid artery stenting: a case study demonstrating cognitive improvement
Authors: Chinda Betty , Liang Simon , Siu William , Medvedev George , Song Xiaowei
Published: February 2021

Background

The narrowing of the carotid arteries with plaque formation represents a major risk factor for ischemic stroke and cognitive impairments. Carotid angioplasty and stenting is a standard clinical treatment to reduce stroke risk. The cognitive effect of carotid angioplasty and stenting remains largely unknown.

Purpose

This study aims to provide direct evidence of possible effects of carotid angioplasty and stenting on cognition, using task-phase functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Material and Methods

This study received harmonized institutional ethics board approval (Grant number REB ID =H18-02495/FHREB 2018-058). Two patients had MRI scans pre-carotid angioplasty and stenting and two-month post-carotid angioplasty and stenting. Case 1 had severe (>95%) flow-limiting stenosis in the right carotid artery. Case 2 had 70% non-flow limiting stenosis in the left carotid artery. At each scan, patients completed two functional magnetic resonance imaging sessions while performing a working memory task. Accuracy, reaction time, and brain activation were analyzed for each patient for possible pre-post carotid angioplasty and stenting changes.

Results

Case 1 showed increased activation in the right (treated-side) frontal and temporal lobes post-carotid angioplasty and stenting; associated with improvements in accuracy (from 58% to 74%) and task completion rate (from 17% to 72%). Case 2 completed the tasks pre- and post-carotid angioplasty and stenting with >90% accuracy, while decreased functional magnetic resonance imaging activation in the contralateral (untreated) hemisphere and mildly increased activation in the left (treated -side) anterior circulation territory were observed post-carotid angioplasty and stenting.

Conclusion

These cases provided the first task-phase functional magnetic resonance imaging data demonstrating that carotid angioplasty and stenting improved cognitive function in the re-perfused vascular territory. The finding supports the role of carotid angioplasty and stenting in improving cognitive performance beyond reducing stroke risk.