bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Onset Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Associated with COVID-19
Authors: Bressler Moshe Y. , Pathak Naeha , Cervellione Kelly , Bagheri Farshad , Epstein Edward , Mir Adnan , Tamez Rebecca
Published: January 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has recently been found to cause cutaneous vasculitis in patients. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a type of small and medium vessel vasculitis that is often associated with pulmonary issues and has been shown to raise diagnostic complications in COVID-19 infection. In this report, we discuss the first case of new-onset GPA in the setting of active COVID-19 infection. Symptoms often overlap between the two diseases, and while there is no current cure for COVID-19, rapid immunosuppressive initiation can be lifesaving for patients with GPA. Thus, this case is essential in expanding our current knowledge of COVID-19 and its many skin manifestations.
Research on Corrosion Damage and Bearing Characteristics of Bridge Pile Foundation Concrete under a Dry‐Wet‐Freeze‐Thaw Cycle
Authors: Feng Zhongju , Huo Jianwei , Hu Haibo , Zhao Ruixin , Wang Fuchun , Jiang Guan , Yao Xianhua , Li Tie , Song Zhenyu
Published: January 2021

This study investigated the corrosion damage and bearing characteristics of bridge pile foundations under a dry‐wet‐freeze‐thaw cycle of composite salt in an alpine salt marsh area using an in situ test, laboratory test, and numerical simulations. The in situ test showed that the dry‐wet‐freeze‐thaw cycle has little effect on the quality of the concrete specimens and rebar. The area of the rebar at a depth of 0.25 m had the highest corrosion rate of 91%. The application of epoxy resin on the surface improved erosion resistance. After one year of outdoor dry‐wet‐freeze‐thaw cycle test, due to the interaction of compound salts, the quality of specimens is reduced under the denudation of chloride ions, while the mass of specimens is increased by the corrosion products formed under the joint action of carbonate and sulfate, resulting in less obvious change of specimen quality, the antierosion coefficient of the specimens decreased, the maximum loss rate of compressive strength was 38.2%, and the pile foundation began to deteriorate. The laboratory test showed that expansive substances, such as Friedel salt, appeared in the concrete specimens of pile foundation during 225 cycles of dry‐wet‐freeze‐thaw cycles, the relative dynamic elastic modulus was reduced by 60.9%, the antierosion coefficient was reduced to 0.51, and the compressive strength loss rate was 65.9%. As such, the pile foundation was seriously damaged. The numerical simulation shows that, with an increase of the peeling thickness and the corrosion depth, the bearing capacity of the pile foundation will gradually decrease after 8 years. Without maintenance, the bearing capacity of a pile foundation will decrease by 34.45% in the 20th year.
Portal Vein Thrombosis following Total Colectomy due to Colonic Inertia: A Case Report and Evaluation of Risk Factors
Authors: Jahantab Mohammad Bagher , Mehrabi Saadat , Salehi Vahid , Abedini Lotfolah , Yavari Barhaghtalab Mohammad Javad
Published: January 2021

The portal vein could be occluded by blood clots partially or completely causing portal vein thrombosis (PVT). The acute episode may be asymptomatic or manifested by abdominal pain, increasing body temperature, and unspecific dyspeptic symptoms. The main causes of PVT are categorized into local, acquired, and genetic thrombophilic factors. To our knowledge, this is the 2nd recognized case of PVT  following colectomy for colonic inertia successfully treated with an effective anticoagulation therapy. The patient received unfractionated heparin as soon the diagnosis was implemented. The patient was a 34-year-old lady with chief complaint of severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia 10 days after the first hospital admission for subtotal colectomy due to colonic inertia. Spiral abdominal CT  scan with intravenous (IV) contrast showed thrombosis in main portal vein with its extension to right and left intrahepatic branches. Our case showed that we should keep in mind PVT in patients who present with upper gastrointestinal symptoms several days after a major surgery (open colectomy) as a risk factor and oral contraceptive pills (OCP) usage, postpregnancy, and immobility as other risk factors, that the protein C, S, and FVL deficiencies were secondary, and that the PVT can be managed by low molecular weight heparin plus oral warfarin therapy in the continue.
Change in Life’s Simple 7 Measure of Cardiovascular Health After Incident Stroke
Authors: Liu Chelsea , Roth David L. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Sheehan Orla C. , Blinka Marcela D. , Howard Virginia J. , Judd Suzanne E. , Cushman Mary
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose:

Life’s Simple 7 (LS7) is a metric for cardiovascular health based on the 7 domains of smoking, diet, physical activity, body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting glucose. Because they may be targeted for secondary prevention purposes, we hypothesized that stroke survivors would experience improvement in LS7 score over time compared with people who did not experience a stroke. We addressed this hypothesis in the REGARDS study (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) cohort of Black and White adults enrolled between 2003 and 2007.

Methods:

Participants who had LS7 data at baseline, were stroke-free at baseline, had a 10-year follow-up visit, and either did not have a stroke or had an ischemic stroke >1 year before follow-up were included (N=7569). Among these participants, 149 (2.0%) had an adjudicated ischemic stroke between the LS7 assessments. LS7 scores were classified as 0 to 2 points for each domain for a maximum score of 14, with higher scores representing better health. Multivariable linear regression was used to test the association of ischemic stroke with change in LS7 score. Covariates included baseline LS7 score, age, race, sex, education, and geographic region.

Results:

The 149 stroke survivors had an average of 4.9 years (SD=2.5) of follow-up from the stroke event to the second LS7 assessment. After adjusting for covariates, participants who experienced an ischemic stroke showed 0.28 points more decline in total LS7 score (
P
=0.03) than those who did not experience a stroke.

Conclusions:

Stroke survivors did not experience improvements in cardiovascular health due to secondary prevention after ischemic stroke. On the contrary, they experienced significantly greater decline, indicating the need for greater efforts in secondary prevention after a stroke.
Begonia nangunheensis, a new species of Begoniaceae from Yunnan province, China
Authors: GUO SHI-WEI , CHEN WEN-HONG , AUNG AUNG , RADBOUCHOOM SIRILAK , ZHAO JIN-CHAO , Li Zhi Hong , SHUI YU-MIN
Published: January 2021

Begonia nangunheensis belonging to Begonia sect. Platycentrum is described and illustrated as a new species in Caryota obtusa forests in Yunnan province of China. It is similar to Begonia siamensis in 3-winged fruits, 2-loculed ovary and axile placentation with 2 segments per locule, but differs in its glabrous petiole and abaxial leaf-blade, ovate outer tepals and oblanceolate to narrowly obovate inner tepals of staminate flower, and the unequal pistillate tepals. The new species is assigned to Critically Endangered according to the guidelines of IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (version 13).
Killing Action of Cuprous Oxide Nanoparticles on Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Shen Ye , Zhou Lianming , Xu Meiyu , Tan Zhanhai , Yao Kai , Zhu Guanghui
Published: January 2021

Breast cancer (BC), a common malignancy, is intractable at present. Cuprous oxide nanoparticles (Conps) are new nanoparticles crucial in inhibiting tumor progression according to early studies, but their role in BC remains unclear. Field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FESEM)
and field emission–transmission electron microscopy (FETEM) were used for the morphological observation of Conps, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was used for their elemental composition analysis. Multipoint nitrogen adsorption was used to determine the Brunauer–Emmet–Teller
of Conps, and their mean hydrodynamic size and zeta potential in water and intact cell medium were determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS). 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry were used to determine
the effects of Conps on the biological function of BC cells. Western blotting was used to determine the changes in apoptosis-related proteins. Using FESEM and FETEM based on DLS and zeta potential determination, Conps was successfully constructed. Conps significantly lowered the viability
of BC cells in a dose-dependent manner, significantly inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and migration activities, and induced cell apoptosis. Western blotting demonstrated that Conps up-regulated Bax and caspase-3 proteins and down-regulated Bcl-2 protein. The results suggest that Conps
can suppress the proliferation, invasion, and migration of BC cells and accelerate their apoptosis. This is a new potential strategy for the clinical treatment of BC.
Subjective Evaluation of Balance by the Dizziness Handicap Inventory Does Not Predict Fall Risk in Older Adults Visiting Otolaryngology Clinics
Authors: Abe-Fujisawa Iku , Maeda Yukihide , Takao Soshi , Kariya Shin , Nishizaki Kazunori
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

Subjective symptoms of dizziness in older adults are affected not only by objective data such as postural balance, but also by complex psychological factors. Published data analyzing how simultaneous evaluations of both objective and subjective assessments of balance can predict fall risk remain lacking. This study examined how fall risk can be predicted based on both objective data for balance and hearing and subjective symptoms of dizziness among older adults visiting otolaryngology clinics.

Methods:

Medical charts of 76 patients ≥65 years old with dizziness/vertigo who visited the otolaryngology clinic were reviewed. Objective data were evaluated by postural balance (posturographic data with eyes open and closed, and one-leg standing test), spontaneous nystagmus, and mean hearing levels. Subjective handicap associated with dizziness/vertigo was assessed using the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Subjective mental status of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Information on history (cardiovascular diseases) and fall accidents within the preceding year was collected using an in-house interview sheet.

Results:

Objective data on postural balance did not correlate with subjective symptoms on DHI or HADS ( P > .05, Pearson’s correlation coefficient). Adjusted logistic regression modeling with the outcome of incident falls revealed that poor postural balance significantly predicted fall risk ( P < .05; 4.9 [1.4-16.8] per 10-cm2 increment). Nystagmus tended to be associated with fall risk. In contrast, DHI score did not predict fall risk ( P = .43; 1.0 [0.9-1.03]). Receiver operating characteristic analysis proposed a cut-off for postural sway with eyes closed >6.1 cm2 as optimal to predict falls in patients with nystagmus (AUC, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.48-0.997).

Conclusion:

Poor postural balance is associated with increased fall risk after adjusting for subjective symptoms in older adults at otolaryngology clinics. Conversely, the self-perceived dizziness handicap of DHI score is an insufficient tool to evaluate their fall risk.
Eco-friendly composites of polyurethane and sheath palm residues
Authors: Zanini Noelle C , de Souza Alana G , Barbosa Rennan FS , Rosa Derval S , Mulinari Daniella R
Published: January 2021

This work prepared eco-friendly biocomposites of polyurethane (PU) and sheath palm residues, using castor oil as a polyol. PU composites filled with natural fibers were prepared at different loading rates: 0 to 20 wt.%. Results indicated that the sheath palm was hydrogen-bonded to PU chains and increased the foams' density. Pore size decreased with an increase in fiber content, from 256 to 116 µm. The fiber's addition improved the ductility of PU foams (compressive modulus from 4.74 to 0.26 MPa) and the foams' crystallinity index (from 5.4 to 15.4%). Compared to pristine PU, the composites showed high hydrophobicity (reaching 123° of contact angle for PU-15%) and thermal stability (Tonset from 96 to 96.3°), and high density (from 41 to 60 kg.m−3), making the developed composites an excellent option for environmental applications, such as oil removal and contaminant adsorption.
Processing of high weight fraction banana fiber reinforced epoxy composites using pressure induced dip casting method
Authors: Mohan TP , Kanny K
Published: January 2021

The objective of this work is to realize new polymer composite material containing high amount of natural fibers as a bio-based reinforcement phase. Short banana fiber is chosen as a reinforcement material and epoxy polymer as a matrix material. About 77 wt.% of banana fibers were reinforced in the epoxy polymer matrix composite, using pressure induced fiber dipping method. Nanoclay particles were infused into the banana fibers to improve the fiber matrix interface properties. The nanoclay infused banana fiber were used to reinforce epoxy composite and its properties were compared with untreated banana fiber reinforced epoxy composite and banana fiber reinforced epoxy filled with nanoclay matrix composite. The surface characteristics of these composites were examined by electron microscope and the result shows well dispersed fibers in epoxy matrix. Thermal (thermogravimetry analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis), mechanical (tensile and fiber pullout) and water barrier properties of these composites were examined and the result showed that the nanoclay infused banana fiber reinforced epoxy composite shows better and improved properties. Improved surface finish composite was also obtained by this processing technique.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Associated with a Factitious Disorder
Authors: Maruyama Ayako , Noguchi Yoshihiro , Ito Taku , Narushima Kenji , Kitamura Ken
Published: January 2021

Factitious disorders are characterized by intentionally abnormal physical and/or psychological behavior, and affected patients often make up their symptoms and clinical histories. The most serious and chronic type of factitious disorder is Munchausen syndrome. We report the case of a 24-year-old woman with a 2-year history of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) who later confessed to feigning her hearing loss. She was eventually diagnosed with a factitious disorder. During those 2 years, she was able to induce her SNHL by exposing herself to excessive noise or high doses of aspirin. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing an association between a factitious disorder and SNHL.
A practice ontology approach to labor control regimes in GPNs: Connecting ‘sites of labor control’ in the Bangalore export garment cluster
Authors: López Tatiana
Published: January 2021

In this article, I develop a practice ontology approach to labor control regimes (LCRs) in Global Production Networks (GPNs). Thereby, I address the shortcomings of existing scalar approaches to LCRs, which have not yet produced a nuanced understanding of how labor control dynamics at different scales are interrelated. Building on Schatzki’s ‘site ontology’, I conceptualize LCRs in GPNs as emerging from the networked relationships between rather localized and rather unbounded constellations of exploiting and disciplining-practices ‘hanging together’ in socio-spatial ‘sites of labor control’. Drawing on empirical insights from the Bangalore export garment industry, I reveal how the highly localized labor process-site is linked to two larger sites, i.e. the sourcing process-site and the legal industrial relations process-site, through two practice-complexes: ‘production-targeting’ and ‘union-busting’. The contribution of this article is two-fold: First, the insights from the empirical analysis contribute to a more nuanced and relational understanding of the institutionalized, yet dynamic labor control architectures underpinning GPNs. Second, the practice ontology approach developed in this article contributes to the reinvigoration and further development of relational and network approaches in GPN analysis.
A statistical-based reach scale classification for the lower Tapajós river channel, eastern Amazonia
Authors: De Cortes João Paulo S , de Fraga Rafael , Pupim Fabiano N , Luvizotto George L
Published: January 2021

The Tapajós river is among the largest rivers in the world and has been credited as the main affluent of the lower Amazon River. Geomorphological studies in the Tapajós commonly deal with evolutionary, hydrological, and sedimentological issues. Recently, important advances have been made in understanding the morphology and dynamics in the Tapajós, especially in the confluence zone near Santarém, eastern Amazonian Brazil. However, the lack of an independent channel classification system makes it difficult to integrate data obtained from different sources. This work presents a classification system for the lower Tapajós based on morphometric variables extracted from transversal profiles coupled with radar and optical remote sensing data. We used discriminant analysis of principal components for the first time in fluvial geomorphology to provide a clustering-based geomorphological classification, which is statistically supported. We propose a segmentation of the channel into three distinct sections referred to as narrower channel reach, higher ria reach, and lower ria reach. The results showed that the channel has a distinct morphological pattern in each of these reaches, which can also be observed by the variation along the longitudinal profile. Our findings showed that the most variable hydrological and sedimentological patterns are found in the lower ria reach, while the higher ria reach comprises a canyon-shaped, more stable part of the channel. We discuss the implications of this pattern on the ria’s evolution. The method developed here could be applied to other areas of the Amazon basin, where the lack of data and logistical difficulties carrying out fieldwork are common obstacles to large-scale investigations. The identified reaches are indended to be considered in the sample design of future works and in the formulation of water resources management strategies.
The dangers of libraries and archives for Indigenous Australian workers: Investigating the question of Indigenous cultural safety
Authors: Thorpe Kirsten
Published: January 2021

Libraries and archives are troubling spaces for Indigenous Australian people as they are sites of renewal and truth-telling as well as sites of deep tension. The topic of people’s cultural safety in libraries and archives is one that is being commonly discussed. However, limited research has been undertaken on the topic to reveal the issues and concerns of people who work on the front line in these institutions. This article discusses the dangers of libraries and archives for Indigenous Australian workers by introducing doctoral research on the topic of Indigenous archiving and cultural safety: Examining the role of decolonisation and self-determination in libraries and archives. The aim of the article is to bring greater visibility to the voice and experiences of Indigenous Australian people who are working to facilitate access to collections in libraries and archives.
Visual Programming Environments and Computational Thinking Performance of Fifth- and Sixth-Grade Students
Authors: Wu Sheng-Yi , Su Yu-Sheng
Published: January 2021

Currently, many countries actively cultivate students to develop computational thinking ability. Many visual programming environments (VPEs) and physical robot courses have been integrated into computational thinking learning in the elementary education stage. This study explores the relationship between the programming learning environment (including VPE, physical robots, and no experience) and the computational thinking ability of higher-grade elementary school students of different genders. The results show that learning through VPE or physical robots can help students improve their computational thinking ability and that students learn better via physical robots. In addition, among the four dimensions of computational thinking ability, most students are weak in algorithm design. In terms of gender, no differences exist in computational thinking ability. Further analysis reveals that female students have better decomposition performance in VPE learning, while male students have better algorithm design performance.
PEGDA/HA mineralized hydrogel loaded with Exendin4 promotes bone regeneration in rat models with bone defects by inducing osteogenesis
Authors: Liu Wei , Jing Xiaowei , Xu Zhiwen , Teng Chong
Published: January 2021

Scaffolds with osteogenic differentiation function play an important role in the healing process of bone defects. Here, we designed a high strength Poly(ethyleneglycol) diacrylate/Hydroxyapatite (PEGDA/HA) mineralized hydrogel loaded with Exendin4 for inducing osteogenic differentiation. In this study, PEGDA hydrogel was prepared by photo initiating method. PEGDA/HA mineralized hydrogel was prepared by in-situ precipitation method, and Exendin4 was loaded by gel adsorption. The effects of different calcium and phosphorus concentrations on the strength and Exendin4 release of PEGDA/HA hydrogels were investigated. Rat models of bone defect were made and randomly divided into 5 groups. The experimental group was implanted with PEGDA hydrogel, Exendin4-PEGDA hydrogel, PEGDA/HA mineralized hydrogel, Exendin4-PEGDA/HA mineralized hydrogel, and no materials were implanted in the blank control group. Computed tomography (CT) and histology were observed 4 and 8 weeks after operation. Our results revealed that the PEGDA/HA mineralized hydrogel had porous structure, high mechanical strength and good biocompatibility. In vitro release test showed that the mineralized hydrogel exhibited good sustained release profile within 20 d. The animal experiments showed that the mineralized hydrogel accelerated the formation of new bone after 4 and 8 weeks, and formed a seamless union on the defected bone area after 8 weeks. In conclusions, The Exendin4-PEGDA/HA mineralized hydrogel can effectively repair bone defects in rats, and it is expected to be used as a biomaterial for human bone tissue repair.
Nano-silica reinforced epoxy resin/nano-rubber composite material with a balance of stiffness and toughness
Authors: Wang Shuo , Cao Meng , Xue Hongqian , Cong Fanglin , Li Xiaodong , Zhao Changbao , Su Weiguo
Published: January 2021

In the electronics and aerospace industries, epoxy resins are generally regarded as economical and efficient adhesives and have a high status. However, epoxy resins are highly crosslinked polymers and are very brittle adhesives where they are prone to fast crack propagation under dynamic loads. Therefore, it is very necessary to enhance the toughness of epoxy resin adhesives. Nano-rubber has been proved to be an important toughening agent for epoxy resin, which can significantly improve the fracture toughness of epoxy resin. However, increasing the toughness of epoxy resin by adding nanomaterials is often accompanied by decreasing the strength and stiffness of resin. Therefore, in this work, rigid nano-silica particles were added to improve the rigidity and tensile strength reduction caused by the addition of rubber particles. And further increase the toughness of the epoxy resin to obtain an epoxy adhesive with balanced stiffness-toughness. As a result, it can be found that the addition of silica particles can significantly improve the decrease in stiffness caused by the addition of rubber particles. For example, Young’s modulus and tensile strength are increased by 28%, and 23%, respectively, with 4% silica is added based on rubber particles. Through the single lap shear experiment, it is found that the shear strength of the epoxy/RnP/silica composite adhesive has increased, which further proves that the addition of nano-silica particles can increase the stiffness of the epoxy composite. The dynamic mechanical analysis experiment found that after adding nano-silica particles, the storage modulus of epoxy composites increased, which also shows that adding nano-silica particles can improve the stiffness of epoxy composites. Scanning electron microscopy analysis was performed to study the reinforcement mechanism of epoxy/RnP/silica composite materials. The thermal stability of epoxy composites was characterized by Dynamic mechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis.
Multi-objective optimization of the cascade parameters of a torque converter based on CFD and a genetic algorithm
Authors: Ran Zilin , Ma Wenxing , Liu Chunbao , Li Jing
Published: January 2021

It is hard to simultaneously improve the peak efficiency (η *) and the width of the high-efficiency region ( Gη) for a hydrodynamic torque converter. A combination of comprehensive CFD simulation and multi-objective optimization was pretested. The elaborate CFD simulation calculation included a reasonable mesh layout, a robust algorithm and a correct turbulence model, whose results were also experimentally verified. In our study, the Kriging surrogate model was first used to construct a nonlinear relationship between the inlet and outlet angle and the economic performance index of the hydrodynamic torque converter. To ensure that the accuracy of the surrogate model meet the requirements, we also used 10 sets of sample points to verify the accuracy of our surrogate model. The accuracy is found to meet the requirements, which shows that the accuracy of the constructed surrogate model is relatively high. We choose to apply the second-generation non-dominant sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) to solve our problem. After solving the Pareto frontier solution set, we obtain a set of global optimal solutions on the Pareto frontier solution set. The optimization results show that the η * is increased by 2.49% and that the Gη is increased by 14.23%. We extracted the flow field structure near the turbine region, characterized the difference between original and optimal model from the flow field perspective, and demonstrated the accuracy of our optimization results. Finally, we used CFD to verify our optimization results, further illustrating the accuracy of the optimization results prediction. Literature research indicates that a large amount of experiments to optimize the η * and the Gη of the hydrodynamic torque converter will bring huge trial cost and time cost. We conclude from our research that the proposed calculation method can solve such problems well.
Mountain aquatic Isoëtes populations reflect millennial-scale environmental changes in the Bohemian Forest Ecosystem, Central Europe
Authors: Moravcová Alice , Tichá Anna , Carter Vachel A , Vondrák Daniel , Čtvrtlíková Martina , van Leeuwen Jacqueline FN , Heurich Marco , Tinner Willy , Kuneš Petr
Published: January 2021

In this study we aim to investigate millennial-scale dynamics of Isoëtes, a type of macrophyte well adapted to oligotrophic and clear-water lakes. Despite its wide distribution during the Early Holocene, nowadays Isoëtes is considered as vulnerable or critically endangered in many Central European countries. Using a multi-proxy palaeoecological reconstruction involving Isoëtes micro- and megaspores, pollen, plant macrofossils, macro-charcoal, diatoms and chironomids from four lakes (Prášilské jezero, Plešné jezero, Černé jezero, Rachelsee) located in the Bohemian Forest Ecosystem mountain region in Central Europe, we reconstruct Isoëtes dynamics and discuss how local environmental factors impacted its distribution and abundance during the Holocene. Our results show regionally concurrent patterns of Isoëtes colonisation across all lakes beginning 10,300–9300 cal yr BP, and substantially declining around 6400 cal yr BP. Results from Prášilské jezero imply that Isoëtes decline and collapse in this lake reflect gradual dystrophication that led to the browning of lake water. This is evidenced by a shift in diatom assemblages towards more acidophilous taxa dominated by Asterionella ralfsii and by a decrease in total chironomid abundance and taxa sensitive to low oxygen levels. Dystrophication of Prášilské jezero was linked with the immigration of the late-successional tree taxa ( Picea abies and later Fagus sylvatica and Abies alba), peatland expansion, and decreasing fire activity. Multi-site comparison of pollen records suggest that these vegetation-related environmental changes were common for the whole region. Our study demonstrates the sensitivity of Isoëtes to millennial-scale natural environmental changes within the surrounding lake catchment.
The Relationship of Monetary and Fiscal Policy Credibility with the Stock Market Volatility in a Developing Country
Authors: Magnani Vinícius Medeiros , Caluz Antonio Daniel Ricardo , Gatsios Rafael Confetti , Lima Fabiano Guasti
Published: January 2021

The present study aims to analyse the relationship between fiscal and monetary credibility and the volatility of the Brazilian stock market index, Ibovespa. The results demonstrate that the greater the credibility of the target imposed by the Brazilian Central Bank, the more predictable and stable are the macroeconomic variables and the greater the confidence of economic agents in the Brazilian stock market. We can conclude that the greater the fiscal and monetary credibility, the better is the performance of the stock market.
Placenta Pathology From Term Born Neonates With Normal or Adverse Outcome
Authors: Nikkels Peter GJ , Evers Annemieke CC , Schuit Ewoud , Brouwers Hens AA , Bruinse Hein W , Bont Louis , Houben Michiel L , Kwee Anneke
Published: January 2021

Background

The incidence of umbilical cord or placental parenchyma abnormalities associated with mortality or morbidity of term infants is lacking.

Methods

Placentas of 55 antepartum stillbirths (APD), 21 intrapartum stillbirths (IPD), 12 neonatal deaths (ND), and 80 admissions to a level 3 neonatal intensive care unit (NS) were studied and compared with 439 placentas from neonates from normal term pregnancies and normal outcome after vaginal delivery (NPVD) and with 105 placentas after an elective caesarian sections (NPEC).

Results

NPVD and NPEC placentas showed no or one abnormality in 70% and placentas from stillbirth showed two or more abnormalities in 80% of cases. APD placentas more frequently had a low weight and less formation of terminal villi. Hypercoiling was more often present in all study groups. Severe chronic villitis was almost exclusively present in APD placentas. Chorioamnionitis was significantly more frequent in APD, IPD and NS placentas and funisitis was more often observed in IPD and NS placentas.

Conclusion

Multiple placental abnormalities are significantly more frequent in placentas from term neonates with severe perinatal morbidity and mortality. These placental abnormalities are thought to be associated with disturbed oxygen transfer or with inflammation.
Balo’s Concentric Sclerosis Mimicking Tumor on Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Young Patient
Authors: Hoang Van Trung , Trinh Cong Thao , Van Hoang Anh Thi , Nguyen Thanh Tam Thi , Chansomphou Vichit , Pham Ngoc Trinh Thi , Vo Minh Tri Thi , Nguyen Hoang Quan , Hoang Duc Thanh
Published: January 2021

Balo’s concentric sclerosis (BCS) is a rare demyelinating disease known as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) lesion type III. It is a disease of the white matter of the brain characterized by a round lesion with variable concentric myelinated and demyelinated layers, appearing as “onion bulb.” We present a case of BCS and discuss the imaging findings and management strategies of this disease. A 26-y-old male developed headache, weakness, and numbness of limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed concentric lamellar like demyelinating lesions at the subcortical regions. The patient’s neurological symptoms were consistent with the MRI findings.
‘It’s how PE should be!’: Classroom teachers’ experiences of implementing Meaningful Physical Education
Authors: Beni Stephanie , Chróinín Déirdre Ní , Fletcher Tim
Published: January 2021

Meaningful Physical Education (PE) is a pedagogical approach to PE instruction designed with the aim of helping teachers explicitly prioritise meaningful experiences for students. The purpose of the current study was to conduct a small-scale implementation of a preliminary version of Meaningful PE with a sample of five primary classroom teachers in Ireland to receive their feedback on the approach and their experiences of implementing it in their classrooms. Qualitative data were collected across an eight-week implementation period. An actor-oriented analysis was used to focus specifically on teachers’ decisions concerning both what and how to implement the approach, as well as the reasons why they implemented Meaningful PE the way they did. Results show teachers were generally supportive of Meaningful PE as they attempted to implement several components of the approach in their classrooms. Teachers’ implementation was highly related to their positive interpretations of the approach, in relation to both their perceptions of beneficial student outcomes and in drawing connections between the approach and prior experiences of and beliefs about teaching. This study adds further support to prior small-scale studies where implementation of Meaningful PE has been assessed and provides insight into how the approach might be introduced to and implemented more broadly by teachers in the future.
Health characteristics of reproductive-aged autistic women in Ontario: A population-based, cross-sectional study
Authors: Tint Ami , Brown Hilary K , Chen Simon , Lai Meng-Chuan , Tarasoff Lesley A , Vigod Simone N , Parish Susan , Havercamp Susan M , Lunsky Yona
Published: January 2021

While an increasing number of girls and women are being identified with autism, we know little about the health of reproductive-aged autistic women. Our objectives were to (1) describe health characteristics of reproductive-aged autistic women who could potentially become pregnant and (2) compare these characteristics with those of non-autistic women. We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study using 2017–2018 administrative health data from Ontario, Canada. A total of 6,870 fifteen- to 44-year-old autistic women were identified and compared with 2,686,160 non-autistic women. Variables of interest included social determinants of health (neighborhood income, residential instability, material deprivation, rurality), health (co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions, use of potentially teratogenic medications, history of assault), and health care factors (continuity of primary care). Overall, reproductive-aged autistic women had poorer health compared with non-autistic women, including increased rates of material deprivation, chronic medical conditions, psychiatric conditions, use of potentially teratogenic medications, and history of assault. These findings highlight the need for health interventions tailored to the needs of reproductive-aged autistic women.

Lay abstract

While an increasing number of girls and women are being identified with autism, we know little about reproductive-aged autistic women’s health. This study used administrative data from Ontario, Canada, to compare the health of reproductive-aged autistic women with non-autistic women. Overall, reproductive-aged autistic women had poorer health compared with non-autistic women, including increased rates of material deprivation, chronic medical conditions, psychiatric conditions, history of assault, and use of potentially teratogenic medications (i.e. drugs that can be harmful to the development of an embryo or fetus). These findings suggest that there is a need for health interventions tailored to the needs of reproductive-aged autistic women.
Does physical performance and muscle strength predict future personal and nursing care services in community-dwelling older adults aged 75+?
Authors: Vaarst Jonathan , Boyle Eleanor , Vestergaard Sonja , Hvid Lars G. , Strotmeyer Elsa S. , Glynn Nancy W. , Caserotti Paolo
Published: January 2021

Aim:

The objective of this study was to investigate if grip strength or the short physical performance battery could predict the rate of receiving two different types of home care services: (a) personal care and (b) home nursing care for community-dwelling older adults aged 75+ years.

Methods:

A secondary data analysis of a prospective cohort study including 323 community-dwelling older adults. Measures of grip strength and the short physical performance battery were incorporated in a nationally regulated preventive home visit programme. Referral to personal and home nursing care were obtained from an administrative database with an average follow-up of 4.1 years. The rate of receiving the individual home care services and the study measures were determined using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models controlling for a priori selected covariates (age, sex, living status, obesity, smoking and prior use of home care).

Results:

The mean age was 81.7 years with 58.8% being women. The rate of receiving personal care differed between the short physical performance battery groups but not between the grip strength groups after adjusting for all covariates with hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of 1.90 (1.29–2.81) and 1.41 (0.95–2.08), respectively. The rate of receiving home nursing care differed between both the short physical performance battery and grip strength groups after adjusting for all covariates with hazard ratios of 2.03 (1.41–2.94) and 1.48 (1.01–2.16), respectively.

Conclusions:

The short physical performance battery was associated with the rate of receiving both personal care and home nursing care. The short physical performance battery can be used to predict home care needs of community-dwelling older adults aged 75+ years.
From Poetry to Politics: Questioning the Rhyme and Reason of Title IX Rollbacks
Authors: Arellano Amy
Published: January 2021

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities. Prior to the Trump administration, Title IX has been used as the legal framework for addressing sexual misconduct present within educational institutions. There has been an increase of sexual misconduct nationwide across college campuses further entrenching rape culture. Despite this, Betsy DeVos has rescinded the majority of Title IX protections. As a survivor of sexual assault and advocate, I use autoethnographic poetry as a means of providing counter-narrative resistance to a national epidemic of pervasive rape culture.
Particulate matter inhalation and the exacerbation of cardiopulmonary toxicity due to metabolic disease
Authors: Kobos Lisa , Shannahan Jonathan
Published: January 2021

Particulate matter is a significant public health issue in the United States and globally. Inhalation of particulate matter is associated with a number of systemic and organ-specific adverse health outcomes, with the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems being particularly vulnerable. Certain subpopulations are well-recognized as being more susceptible to inhalation exposures, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory disease. Metabolic syndrome is becoming increasingly prevalent in our society and has known adverse effects on the heart, lungs, and vascular systems. The limited evaluations of individuals with metabolic syndromehave demonstrated that theymay compose a sensitive subpopulation to particulate exposures. However, the toxicological mechanisms responsible for this increased vulnerability are not fully understood. This review evaluates the currently available literature regarding how the response of an individual’s pulmonary and cardiovascular systems is influenced by metabolic syndrome and metabolic syndrome-associated conditions such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes. Further, we will discuss potential therapeutic agents and targets for the alleviation and treatment of particulate-matter induced metabolic illness. The information reviewed here may contribute to the understanding of metabolic illness as a risk factor for particulate matter exposure and further the development of therapeutic approaches to treat vulnerable subpopulations, such as those with metabolic diseases.
Patient Risk Factors Associated With Postoperative Complications After Common Hand Procedures
Authors: Bryant Benjamin S. H. , Marsh Kathleen , Smithson Ian R. , Wigton Michael D. , Luo T. David , Chao Linda , Wiesler Ethan
Published: January 2021

Background:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), trigger finger (TF), and De Quervain tenosynovitis (DQ) are 3 common pathologies of the hand often treated with relatively simple surgical procedures. However, outcomes from these procedures can be compromised by postoperative complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between diabetes, tobacco use, and obesity and the incidence of postoperative complications.

Methods:

We reviewed 597 patients treated surgically for CTS, TF, or DQ from 2010 to 2015. We used bivariate and multivariate analyses to assess independent associations between diabetes, tobacco use, obesity, and surgical complications and compared the incidences with healthier patients without these comorbidities. We also looked at patients with overlapping diagnoses of these comorbidities.

Results:

Bivariate analysis showed that patients with diabetes and smokers were more likely to have a surgical complication. Multivariate analysis showed diabetes and tobacco use as independent predictors of complications. The disease states or combinations placing patients at the highest risk of a postoperative complication were the diabetic-smoker-obese, diabetic-smoker, diabetic-obese, diabetic, and smoker-obese groups. The diabetic-smoker-obese patient population had a 42.02% predicted rate of postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

Diabetes and tobacco use are independent risk factors for complications after operative treatment of CTS, TF, and DQ. Obesity when coexisting with diabetes mellitus (DM) and/or tobacco use increased the risk of complications. When the 3 patient factors evaluated, DM, obesity, and tobacco use, were present, the rate of complications was 42.02%. Careful assessment and discussion should occur before proceeding with operative treatment for simple hand conditions in patients with the risk factors studied.
Risk factors for postoperative blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Kopechek Kyle J , Frantz Travis L , Everhart Joshua S , Samade Richard , Bishop Julie Y , Neviaser Andrew S , Cvetanovich Gregory L
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To identify the effect of surgical indication, patient factors, and perioperative characteristics on transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty (SA).

Methods

Shoulder arthroplasties for osteoarthritis (OA) ( N = 47), rotator cuff arthropathy (RCA) ( N = 50), fracture ( N = 76), revision ( N = 66), and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) ( N = 35) performed at a single institution during a 6-year period were included. All other indications were excluded. Patient-based and surgical risk factors, including surgical indication, for postoperative allogeneic red blood cell transfusion were assessed with multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 274 SAs were included; transfusions were performed in 2% (2/97) of primary SAs for OA or RCA. Increased transfusion rates occurred in PJI (23%, p = 0.0006) and fracture (18%, p = 0.0018) cases. The mean preoperative hemoglobin (Hgb) was 12.2 ± 2.2 with PJI, 12.0 ± 2.1 with fracture, and 13.3 ± 1.6 g/dL for all other SAs. Independent risk factors for transfusion included lower preoperative hemoglobin ( p < 0.001), PJI indication ( p = 0.008), and fracture indication ( p = 0.02), with no difference for fracture greater or less than 4 weeks old ( p = 0.53).

Conclusion

Risk factors for allogeneic red blood cell transfusion after SA were low preoperative hemoglobin and procedures for PJI or fracture. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective case-control study
Assessing the required glenoid peg penetration in native scapula when bone graft is used during primary and revision shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Makki Daoud , Balbisi Basel , Arshad Mohammed S , Monga Puneet , Bale Steven , Trail Ian , Walton Michael
Published: January 2021

Aims

Achieving purchase in native glenoid bone is essential for the stability of the glenoid baseplate when bone graft is used to address bone loss in both primary and revision shoulder arthroplasty procedures. The aim of this study is to assess the required depth of the baseplate peg in native bone when bone graft is used to result in satisfactory integration.

Patients and methods

The CT scans of patients who underwent either primary or revision arthroplasty procedures with bone graft using the SMR Axioma Trabecular Titanium (TT) Metal Backed glenoid system were assessed. We measured the depth of the glenoid peg in native glenoid bone. Measurements were taken by two authors separately.

Results

The scans of 53 patients (mean age 68 years) with a minimum follow-up of two years were reviewed. Implants included 12 anatomical and 41 reverse geometry prostheses. There were 17 primaries and 36 revisions: hemiarthroplasties (20) total (14) and reverse (2) implants. Bone grafts were from humeral head (15), iliac crest (34) and allograft (4). The mean depths were 8.8 mm (first assessor) and 9.10 mm (second assessor). The glenoid peg violated the glenoid vault in 32 patients and this did not adversely affect the outcome. There were three failures of implants all of which were aseptic failures and had peg penetration of less than 6 mm.

Conclusions

The mean depth of glenoid peg in native bone was 9 mm (variation between 0.2 and 0.52 mm at 95% confidence interval). Aseptic loosening was seen with peg penetration less than 6 mm in native bone. Glenoid vault violation was not associated with loosening.
Social Representations of Physical Disability in a Professional Environment
Authors: Denis Bernardeau-Moreau
Published: January 2021

Our article addresses disability as a social construct. More precisely, our intention is to see to what degree practices and exchange and interaction situations operate on social representations of physical disability in professional environments. Our aim is to provide some elements for reflection with regard to the imagined issues of physical disability in the workplace by focusing, in particular, on the social representations that they trigger among employees and managers who work with disabled colleagues on a day-to-day basis.
Arbitrating Intellectual Property Disputes in India
Authors: Mathew Daniel
Published: January 2021

Recent years have witnessed enhanced utilisation of varied means of alternative dispute resolution to resolve a variety of disputes. While many areas have seamlessly adapted and internalised such extension, intellectual property disputes continue to offer stubborn resistance. This is because on the one hand intellectual property represents substantial business asset, while on the other it is an outcome of a carefully constructed public policy. The tension between the two viewpoints has a profound effect on how intellectual property disputes are understood and resolved. As a result, jurisdictions, world over, including India, have struggled to suitably respond to concerns emanating from private adjudication (in particular use of arbitration), to resolve public policy issues (such as disputes pertaining to intellectual property). This article attempts (a) a critical appraisal of the efforts to arbitrate intellectual property disputes in India, (b) identify and analyse legal roadblocks to such attempts including contradictory approaches adopted by Indian courts and (c) finally, undertake an evaluation of a possible compromise that enables arbitration of intellectual property disputes in India.