bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional printed model of impacted third molar for surgical extraction training
Authors: Feng Jing , Qi Wenting , Duan Shengfeng , Bao Chongyun , Zhang Xiaohui , Cai Bohong , Liu Xian
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is one of the most common surgical procedures performed at dental clinics; however effective training models for teaching oral surgery to dental students are limited. This study aimed to use three‐dimension (3D) printing technology to develop an effective training model for impacted third molar extraction.

Methods

The data for the 3D model were digitally processed using high‐resolution computed tomography, and two common, but different patterns of impacted third molars were simulated using computer‐aided design. Thereafter, the model was printed using the 3D‐printing technology, and the efficiency of the 3D‐printed model and an animal model (pig mandible) were compared using a five‐point Likert scale by 35 oral surgeons in the oral surgery department and 208 students of stomatology in the internship stage.

Results

The 3D‐printed model consisted of three parts: a non‐replaceable part (i.e., the body of the mandible and the teeth from the left first molar to the right first molar) and two replaceable parts (i.e., the part of the ascending ramus of the mandible, as well as the second and third molars). It was covered with a layer of rubber‐like material to simulate the gingiva. For the comparison between the 3D‐printed and animal models, a total of 205 questionnaires were collected. Both oral surgeons and students agreed that the 3D‐printed model was better than the animal model in terms of total value and the anatomy of the bone and teeth, simulating the surgical procedure (p < 0.05), while the two models achieved similar results for haptic feedback of the soft tissue (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The 3D‐printed model is realistic and effective for learning impacted third molar extraction and received positive feedback from students and oral surgeons. This model can significantly improve the pre‐clinical skill training of dental students.
Nanoscale Positioning Approaches for Integrating Single Solid‐State Quantum Emitters with Photonic Nanostructures
Authors: Liu Shunfa , Srinivasan Kartik , Liu Jin
Published: August 2021

Deterministically integrating single solid‐state quantum emitters with photonic nanostructures serves as a key enabling resource in the context of photonic quantum technology. Due to the random spatial location of many widely‐used solid‐state quantum emitters, a number of positioning approaches for locating the quantum emitters before nanofabrication have been explored in the last decade. Here, the working principles of several nanoscale positioning methods and the most recent progress in this field, covering techniques including atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy with in situ lithography, and wide‐field fluorescence imaging are reviewed. A selection of representative device demonstrations with high‐performance is presented, including high‐quality single‐photon sources, bright entangled‐photon pairs, strongly‐coupled cavity QED systems, and other emerging applications. The challenges in applying positioning techniques to different material systems and opportunities for using these approaches for realizing large‐scale quantum photonic devices are discussed.
Meet the needs of graduate students with disabilities by creating community
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2021

Graduate students live very different lives than traditional undergraduate students, and disability services need to be tailored to meet those needs, said Andrea Anda Mozqueda, Ph.D., Director of Student and Campus Life and Disability Services Coordinator at the Keck Graduate Institute. Graduate student enrollment is approaching 4.1 million, and 54% of those students attend full time, Mozqueda said.
The institutionalization and effectiveness of transnational policy transfer: The China–Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park as a case study
Authors: Liu Hong , Wang Ting‐Yan
Published: August 2021

Transnational policy transfer through cross‐border government‐to‐government collaboration projects has been widely adopted as a tool to facilitate economic growth, especially by developing countries. Why did some transnational projects of policy transfer succeed while others fail? What are the facilitating and constraining factors in shaping their fates? What are their theoretical and policy implications for public administration and economic development in a globalizing world? This article examines the case of the China–Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park which has been in operation since its establishment in 1994. Challenging the previous studies and adopting a mixed research method utilizing a wide range of quantitative and qualitative data, we identify three major factors affecting the results of policy transfer: (1) a systemic combination of “hardware” and “software” in the conceptualization of transnational policy transfer; (2) localization of transnational policy and its enforcement; and mostly importantly, (3) institutionalization of key processes in both ends of policy exchanges and implementation.
Rice aquaporin OsPIP2;2 is a water‐transporting facilitator in relevance to drought‐tolerant responses
Authors: Bai Jiaqi , Wang Xuan , Yao Xiaohui , Chen Xiaochen , Lu Kai , Hu Yiqun , Wang Zuodong , Mu Yanjie , Zhang Liyuan , Dong Hansong
Published: August 2021

In rice (Oryza sativa), the PLASMA MEMBRANE INTRINSIC PROTEIN (PIP) family of aquaporin has 11 members, OsPIP1;1 to OsPIP1;3, and OsPIP2;1 to OsPIP2;8, which are hypothesized to facilitate the transport of H2O and other small compounds across cell membranes. To date, however, only OsPIP1;2, OsPIP2;1, and OsPIP2;4 have been demonstrated for substrate selectivity in their source plant (rice). In this study, OsPIP2;2 was characterized as the most efficient facilitator of H2O transport across cell membranes in comparison with the other 10 OsPIPs. In concomitant tests of all OsPIPs, four genes (OsPIP1;3, OsPIP2;1, OsPIP2;2, and OsPIP2;4) were induced to express in leaves of rice plants following a physiological drought stress, while OsPIP2;2 was expressed to the highest level. After de novo expression in frog oocytes and yeast cells, the four OsPIP proteins were localized to the plasma membranes in trimer and tetramer and displayed the activity to increase the membrane permeability to H2O. In comparison, OsPIP2;2 was most supportive to H2O import to oocytes and yeast cells. After de novo expression in tobacco protoplasts, OsPIP2;2 exceeded OsPIP1;3, OsPIP2;1, and OsPIP2;4 to support H2O transport across the plasma membranes. OsPIP2;2‐mediated H2O transport was accompanied by drought‐tolerant responses, including increases in concentrations of proline and polyamines, both of which are physiological markers of drought tolerance. In rice protoplasts, H2O transport and drought‐tolerant responses, which included expression of marker genes of drought tolerance pathway, were considerably enhanced by OsPIP2;2 overexpression but strongly inhibited by the gene silencing. Furthermore, OsPIP2;2 played a role in maintenance of the cell membrane integrity and effectively protected rice cells from electrolyte leakage caused by the physiological drought stress. These results suggest that OsPIP2;2 is a predominant facilitator of H2O transport in relevance to drought tolerance in the plant.
Cryo‐EM targets in CASP14
Authors: Cragnolini Tristan , Kryshtafovych Andriy , Topf Maya
Published: August 2021

Structures of seven CASP14 targets were determined using cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) technique with resolution between 2.1 and 3.8 Å. We provide an evaluation of the submitted models versus the experimental data (cryo‐EM density maps) and experimental reference structures built into the maps. The accuracy of models is measured in terms of coordinate‐to‐density and coordinate‐to‐coordinate fit. A‐posteriori refinement of the most accurate models in their corresponding cryo‐EM density resulted in structures that are close to the reference structure, including some regions with better fit to the density. Regions that were found to be less “refineable” correlate well with regions of high diversity between the CASP models and low goodness‐of‐fit to density in the reference structure.
Molecular basis and regulatory mechanisms underlying fungal insecticides' resistance to solar ultraviolet irradiation
Authors: Tong Sen‐Miao , Feng Ming‐Guang
Published: August 2021

Resistance to solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is crucial for field‐persistent control efficacies of fungal formulations against arthropod pests, because their active ingredients are formulated conidia very sensitive to solar UV wavelengths. This review seeks to summarize advances in studies aiming to quantify, understand and improve conidial UV resistance. One focus of studies has been on the many sets of genes that have been revealed in the postgenomic era to contribute to or mediate UV resistance in the insect pathogens serving as main sources of fungal insecticides. Such genetic studies have unveiled the broad basis of UV‐resistant molecules including cytosolic solutes, cell wall components, various antioxidant enzymes, and numerous effectors and signaling proteins, that function in developmental, biosynthetic and stress‐responsive pathways. Another focus has been on the molecular basis and regulatory mechanisms underlying photorepair of UV‐induced DNA lesions and photoreactivation of UV‐impaired conidia. Studies have shed light upon a photoprotective mechanism depending on not only one or two photorepair‐required photolyases, but also two white collar proteins and other partners that play similar or more important roles in photorepair via interactions with photolyases. Research hotspots are suggested to explore a regulatory network of fungal photoprotection and to improve the development and application strategies of UV‐resistant fungal insecticides. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Bilateral pleural metastases of a primary central nervous system neuroblastoma in an adult: First case in the world
Authors: Loued Lobna , Migaou Asma , Abdelaaly Mabrouk , Bellalah Ahlem , Fahem Nesrine , Kaddoussi Rania , Ben Saad Ahmed , Joobeur Samah , Cheikh Mhamed Saoussen , Rouatbi Naceur
Published: August 2021

Primary central nervous system neuroblastoma (PCNS‐NBL) is a rare and aggressive malignant tumour. Pleural metastases of PCNS‐NBL have not been documented before. We report a case of a 30‐year‐old male patient, with a history of PCNS‐NBL treated with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Three years later, he presented an aggravated dyspnoea with impaired general condition. The different investigations confirmed that his PCNS‐NBL has relapsed with bone, lymph nodes and bilateral pleural metastases. Because of the disseminated disease and the poor general condition of the patient, only symptomatic treatment measures were preconized. The patient died 3 months later following cardiorespiratory arrest. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reporting bilateral pleural metastases of a PCNS‐NBL in a young adult.
Adipose Micro-Grafts Enhance Tendinopathy Healing in Ovine Model: An in Vivo Experimental Perspective Study
Authors: Palumbo Piccionello Angela , Riccio Valentina , Senesi Letizia , Volta Antonella , Pennasilico Luca , Botto Riccardo , Rossi Giacomo , Tambella Adolfo Maria , Galosi Livio , Marini Carlotta , Vullo Cecilia , Gigante Antonio , Zavan Barbara , De Francesco Francesco , Riccio Michele
Published: August 2021

In Europe, approximatively 100 000 to 500 000 tendon repairs are performed every year. These procedures are associated with a considerable rate of postoperative complications (from 6% to 11%). Autologous micro-grafts (AAMG) and stromal vascular fraction (SVF) have been shown to improve tendon healing in 60% to 70% of treated rodents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of AAMG in a sheep model with tendinopathy. We used sheep models because, as a large animal, they are more comparable to humans. The hypothesis was that SVF injection would improve tendon healing compared with the control group, reducing inflammatory and matrix degrading, while increasing anti-inflammatory expression and collagen synthesis in the early stage of tendon injury. Sixteen Apennine sheep aged 2 to 5 years underwent 500 UI type I collagenase injection into both common calcaneal tendons (CCT) to induce tendinopathy. After 15 days (T0), one CCT in every ovine underwent randomly to 2.5 mL of AAMG obtained by mechanical disruption and the contralateral CCTs received no treatment. Clinical, ecographic, and sonographic evaluations were performed after 4 weeks (T1) and 8 weeks (T2). Histological, immunohistochemical, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and biomechanical evaluations were performed at T2. At T2, the treated group showed a final tendon diameter (9.1 ± 1.4 mm) and a hardness expression (62%) that were similar to the original healthy tendon (8.1 ± 1.1 mm; 100%), with a significant recovery compared with the control group (9.5 ± 1.7 mm; 39%). Moreover, histological analysis of the treated group revealed an improvement in the fiber orientation score, fiber edema score, infiltrative-inflammatory process, and necrosis score (4.3 ± 3.3) compared with control group (8.8 ± 2.9). Immunohistochemically, the treated group showed high expression of collagen 1, Factor VIII and significantly low expression of collagen 3. These data were confirmed by RT-PCR analysis. The study findings suggested that AAMGs obtained through mechanical disruption present a safe, efficient, and reliable technique, enhancing tendon healing.
IFN-γ and PPARδ Influence the Efficacy and Retention of Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cells in Graft vs Host Disease
Authors: Carty Fiona , Dunbar Hazel , Hawthorne Ian J. , Ting Anthony E. , Stubblefield Samantha R. , Van't Hof Wouter , English Karen
Published: August 2021

Cell-based therapy for the treatment of inflammatory disorders has focused on the application of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs). Despite the recent positive findings in industry-sponsored clinical trials of MSCs and MAPCs for graft vs host disease (GvHD), cell therapy is efficacious in some but not all patients, highlighting the need to identify strategies to enhance cell-based therapeutic efficacy. Here, we demonstrate the capacity for interferon (IFN)-γ licensing to enhance human MAPC efficacy and retention following early administration in a humanized mouse model of acute GvHD (aGvHD). Activation of the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARδ) negatively influenced the retention and efficacy of human MAPCs as well as IFN-γ-licensed MAPCs in the aGvHD model. PPARδ antagonism significantly enhanced the efficacy of human MAPCs when administered early in the humanized aGvHD model. COX-2 expression in human MAPC was significantly decreased in IFN-γ licensed MAPCs exposed to a PPARδ agonist. Importantly, MAPC exposure to the PPARδ antagonist in the presence of a COX-2 inhibitor indomethacin before administration significantly reduced the efficacy of PPARδ antagonized MAPCs in the aGvHD humanized mouse model. This is the first study to demonstrate the importance of PPARδ in human MAPC efficacy in vivo and highlights the importance of understanding the disease microenvironment in which cell-based therapies are to be administered. In particular, the presence of PPARδ ligands may negatively influence MAPC or MSC therapeutic efficacy.
Edge‐Rich Reduced Graphene Oxide Embedded in Silica‐Based Laminated Ceramic Composites for Efficient and Robust Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Huang Yujia , Wang Min , Li Yi , Yin Shujia , Zhu Hongwei , Wan Chunlei
Published: August 2021

To mitigate the energy crisis and environmental pollution, efficient and earth‐abundant hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts are essential for hydrogen production through electrochemical water splitting. Graphene‐based materials as metal‐free catalysts have attracted significant attention but suffer from insufficient activity and stability. Therefore, a novel and economical approach is developed to prepare highly active, robust, and self‐supported reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/SiO2 ceramic composites as electrocatalysts in HER. Through intercalation and pressure sintering, the rGO sheets are parallelly aligned and embedded into a dense and chemically inert SiO2 matrix, ensuring the electrical conductivity and stability of the prepared composites. After directional cutting, the edges of the oriented rGO sheets become fully exposed on the composite surface, acting as highly electrocatalytic active sites in HER, as confirmed by density functional theory calculations. The 4 vol% rGO/SiO2 composite displays superior electrocatalytic performance, featuring a low overpotential (134 mV) at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, a small Tafel slope (103 mV dec−1), and excellent catalytic durability in 0.5 m H2SO4. This study provides a new yet cost‐effective strategy to prepare metal‐free, robust, and edge‐rich rGO/ceramic composites as a highly electrocatalytic active catalyst for HER applications.
Engineering Tissue‐Specific, Multiscale Microvasculature with a Capillary Network for Prevascularized Tissue
Authors: Son Jeonghyun , Hong Sung Joon , Lim Jun Woo , Jeong Wonwoo , Jeong Jae Hyun , Kang Hyun‐Wook
Published: August 2021

Although there are various pre‐existing technologies for engineering vasculatures, multiscale modeling of the architecture of human vasculature at a capillary scale remains a challenge. In this study, a novel technology is developed for the production of a functional, multiscale microvasculature comprising of endothelialized channels and tissue‐specific capillary networks. Perfusable, endothelialized channels are bioprinted, after which angiogenic sprouts are grown into user‐designed capillary networks. The induction of branched and liver‐lobule‐like capillary networks confirm that the technology can produce various types of tissue‐specific multiscale microvasculatures. Further, the channels and capillaries are deemed to be functional when evaluated in vitro. An ex vivo assay demonstrates that the microvasculature can induce neovessel ingrowth, integrate with host vessels, and facilitate blood flow. Remarkably, blood flows through the implanted capillary network without any change in its morphology. Finally, the technology is applied to produce a vascularized liver tissue; it significantly improves its hepatic function. It is believed that this new technology will create new possibilities in the development of highly vascularized and functional tissues/organs on a clinically relevant scale.
Developing a Framework for Mobile Learning Adoption and Sustainable Development
Authors: Moya Sofia , Camacho Mar
Published: August 2021

Learning innovation for future education often includes digital approaches to enhance learning and to contribute to the development of twenty-first-century skills. There is evidence that mobile learning provides positive outcomes. However, there is a recognized lack of research in the field of frameworks and models that contributes to highlighting mobile learning rewards. This study aims to investigate the main characteristics of a strategic framework for the adaption and sustainable use of mobile learning. This study is based on a systematic review of 15 investigations published between 2009 and 2018. An adaptation of the strategic management framework by Jauch and Glueck (Business policy and strategic management, McGraw-Hill, London, 1988) was developed to show the results. The framework has a pedagogical foundation. Leaders, teachers, learners, families, and community members are identified as the key pillars upholding and maximizing mobile learning. The proposed framework is envisaged to serve as a guide for the educational community in implementing sustainable mobile learning.
Introspective Projection: Prototypical Representations of Policing in the Service of Rule of Law
Authors: Sammut Gordon , Mifsud Rebekah , Brockdorff Noellie
Published: August 2021

Mass protests that have taken place over the past decade in various Western democracies have called into question the role of police in society, as officers have employed measures to contain rallies protesting for or against various issues. A number of these protests have resorted to violent means, resisting the police or protesting directly against their role and methods. The present study sought to investigate the prototypical representations of the police that lay citizens use to forge or desist identification with police officers. Social identification enables citizens to consider the police as ingroup members, facilitating respect for their authority. Conversely, identifying the police as outgroup precipitates resistance. The study involved 41 in-depth interviews carried out with citizens of Malta between May and June 2020. Thematic Networks Analysis revealed various points of consensus as well as a number of controversial themes. In particular, respondents demonstrated sceptical attitudes regarding policing on the beat for fear of overfamiliarity, rooted in introspective attributions projected at the police as merely human. Moreover, respondents expressed support for technological innovations that overcome natural psychological tendencies. The findings of this study suggest that seeking increasing trust in the police may be a red herring for policymakers. Rather, efforts should be directed at developing inter-objective systems, (e.g. body-cams), that overcome individual psychological propensities.
“Waste Not, Want Not” — Leveraging Sewer Systems and Wastewater-Based Epidemiology for Drug Use Trends and Pharmaceutical Monitoring
Authors: Erickson Timothy B. , Endo Noriko , Duvallet Claire , Ghaeli Newsha , Hess Kaitlyn , Alm Eric J. , Matus Mariana , Chai Peter R.
Published: August 2021

During the current global COVID-19 pandemic and opioid epidemic, wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a powerful tool for monitoring public health trends by analysis of biomarkers including drugs, chemicals, and pathogens. Wastewater surveillance downstream at wastewater treatment plants provides large-scale population and regional-scale aggregation while upstream surveillance monitors locations at the neighborhood level with more precise geographic analysis. WBE can provide insights into dynamic drug consumption trends as well as environmental and toxicological contaminants. Applications of WBE include monitoring policy changes with cannabinoid legalization, tracking emerging illicit drugs, and early warning systems for potent fentanyl analogues along with the resurging wave of stimulants (e.g., methamphetamine, cocaine). Beyond drug consumption, WBE can also be used to monitor pharmaceuticals and their metabolites, including antidepressants and antipsychotics. In this manuscript, we describe the basic tenets and techniques of WBE, review its current application among drugs of abuse, and propose methods to scale and develop both monitoring and early warning systems with respect to measurement of illicit drugs and pharmaceuticals. We propose new frontiers in toxicological research with wastewater surveillance including assessment of medication assisted treatment of opioid use disorder (e.g., buprenorphine, methadone) in the context of other social burdens like COVID-19 disease.
Safety considerations and time constant determined extended operations for fuel cell-powered aircrafts
Authors: Kösters Lennart , Gao Xin
Published: August 2021

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) are seen to be promising for achieving the transformation from traditional aircrafts to All Electric aircrafts (AEA). While several field studies already proved the feasibility of a fuel cell-powered aircraft, the limiting factor for the implementation in the civilian aircraft sector is widely thought to be the specific power of the fuel cell system. Moreover, potentially, this specific power is notably affected by the aviation safety code. This study aims to quantify and relieve this effect by introducing a novel extended operation strategy. This strategy takes advantage of the degradation time constants of the fuel cell system in case of sub-system failure. The results show the great influence of the aviation certification code on system specific power. The extended operation strategy seems working notably. However, for practical implementation, individual failure probabilities on a component level need to be studied more extensively.
Einfluss visueller Hilfen und räumlicher Fähigkeiten auf die graphische Interpretation von Vektorfeldern: Eine Eye-Tracking-Untersuchung
Authors: Klein Pascal , Hahn Larissa , Kuhn Jochen
Published: August 2021

Ein solides Verständnis physikalischer Konzepte erfordert den Umgang mit multiplen Repräsentationen wie Formeln und Diagrammen zur Bildung kohärenter mentaler Modelle. Bei komplexen Sachverhalten haben Studierende häufig Schwierigkeiten mit solchen repräsentationalen Verknüpfungen und benötigen deshalb instruktionale Unterstützung. In diesem Beitrag wird der Einfluss von zwei Instruktionen (mit und ohne visuelle Hilfen; VH vs. OH) zur graphischen Interpretation eines Vektorfelddiagramms hinsichtlich Divergenz auf die Leistungsfähigkeit von $$N=141$$

N
=
141

Studierenden untersucht. Beim Lesen der Instruktion und der anschließenden Aufgabenbearbeitung wurden die Augenbewegungen mit einem Eye-Tracker aufgenommen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Studierende in der VH-Gruppe ($$N=64$$

N
=
64

) eine bessere Testleistung erzielten als Studierende der OH-Gruppe ($$N=77$$

N
=
77

). Der Unterschied ist am stärksten ausgeprägt für die Studierendengruppen mit hohen und mittelstarken räumlichen Fähigkeiten, die im Vorfeld der Untersuchung mittels eines standardisierten Raumspannentests ermittelt wurden. Die Eye-Tracking-Analysen zum Lesen der Instruktionen zeigen, dass den Studierenden mit visuellen Hilfen die Selektion, Organisation und Integration lernrelevanter Informationen im Sinne der kognitionspsychologischen Theorie multimedialen Lernens besser gelingen als Studierenden der OH-Gruppe. Die Analyse der Eye-Tracking-Daten beim anschließenden Problemlösen ergibt, dass Studierende mit VH-Instruktion ihre Augen systematischer über die Vektorfelddiagramme bewegen, was eine korrekte Anwendung der vermittelten Strategie indiziert. Neben dem modellprüfenden Charakter und der Bedeutung visueller Hilfen zeigt die Studie das diagnostische Potential von Eye-Tracking bei Aufgaben mit hohen Ansprüchen an die kognitiv-visuellen Fähigkeiten.
What went wrong? Fracking in Eastern Europe
Authors: Maierean Andreea
Published: August 2021

A few years ago, optimistic estimates claimed that Eastern Europe possessed large shale formations that seemed likely to produce great quantities of natural gas. In addition, the countries in the region had strategic incentives to develop a transparent domestic shale industry in order to reduce its reliance on gas from Russia. Nevertheless, political and social factors as well as differences in physical characteristics, prevented the U.S. experience from being replicable in Eastern Europe. In the end, most multinational energy corporations announced that they had abandoned efforts to find and produce natural gas from shale rock in Eastern Europe. The paper discusses the impact of shale gas exploration on the quality of democratic governance by comparing and contrasting fracking regulations adopted in the United States with those of Eastern Europe. The main research question attempts to ask and identify: “what are the factors that influence a democratic and fair governance of public natural resources”.
The Significance of the Past
Authors: KAHANE GUY
Published: August 2021

The past is deeply important to many of us. But our concern about history can seem puzzling and needs justification. After all, the past cannot be changed: we can help the living needy, but the tears we shed for the long dead victims of past tragedies help no one. Attempts to justify our concern about history typically take one of two opposing forms. It is assumed either that such concern must be justified in instrumental or otherwise self-centered and present-centered terms or that our interest in history must be utterly disinterested and pursued for its own sake. But neither approach can fully explain, or justify, our concern about the past. I propose a third approach, on which the past matters because it contains much that is of value—all those past people and the things they did or had endured—and this value calls for our fitting response. In short: the significance of the past is past significance.
Not so Shocking: Electromyography in Pediatrics Remains Feasible and Diagnostically Useful
Authors: Joyal Kristina M. , MacGregor Jessica V. , Hayawi Lamia M. , Webster Richard J. , McMillan Hugh J.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Electrodiagnostic testing, including nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG), assists with localizing lesions within the peripheral nervous system. NCS/EMG in children can be technically challenging and its relevance has been questioned in the era of affordable genetic testing. NCS/EMG provides information that may not be available in the examination of a young or developmentally delayed child. Our goal was to review the volume and referral sources of NCS/EMG studies and evaluate its feasibility and diagnostic yield at a pediatric tertiary care hospital.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review of NCS/EMG studies done in pediatric patients at one center from 2014 to 2019.

Results:

A total of 725 studies were performed, with a median age of 13.2 years (range 0–18 years). The annual number of studies remained constant throughout the study period. Neurologists and surgeons were the most common referral sources, but an increased number of referrals from geneticists was observed. Most (94.5%) NCS/EMG were done on awake patients, with only 5.5% of studies being terminated early due to tolerability of the patient. Of all studies, 326/725 (44%) demonstrated a neuromuscular abnormality, of which 63.5% (207/326) were acquired conditions. Mononeuropathies and polyneuropathies were the most common electrophysiologic diagnoses.

Discussion:

Our study indicates that NCS/EMG remains a useful diagnostic tool, both for the diagnosis of acquired neuromuscular conditions but also as an adjunct for interpreting genetic results, as indicated by the recent increase in referrals from geneticists. Overall NCS/EMG is well tolerated and able to be performed without sedation in children of all ages.
Household Preparedness and Perceptions of Workforce Preparedness During Pandemics: A Health Care Employee Survey at the US Department of Veterans Affairs
Authors: Der-Martirosian Claudia , Balut Michelle D. , Dobalian Aram
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To examine the effects of household preparedness on perceptions of workplace preparedness during a pandemic among all employees at the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities.

Methods:

The VA Preparedness Survey (October–December 2018, Los Angeles, CA) used a stratified simple random, web-based survey. Multivariate statistical analyses examined the effect of household preparedness on perceptions of workforce preparedness during a pandemic: institutional readiness; desire for additional training; and understanding their role and its importance.

Results:

VA employees totaling 4026 participated. For a pandemic, 55% were confident in their VA medical facility’s ability to respond, 63% would like additional training, 49% understood their role during a response, and 68% reported their role as important. Only 23% reported being “well prepared” at home during major disasters. After controlling for study-relevant factors, household preparedness was positively associated with perceptions of workforce preparedness during a pandemic.

Conclusions:

Efforts to increase household preparedness for health care employees could bolster workforce preparedness during pandemics. Organizations should consider robust policies and strategies, such as flexible work arrangements, in order to mitigate factors that may serve as barriers to household preparedness.
Perceived Risks of Infection, Hospitalization, and Death From COVID-19 at the Equator: Ecuador and Kenya
Authors: Boonsaeng Tullaya , Carpio Carlos E , Guerrero Patricia , Sarasty Oscar , Borja Ivan , Hudson Darren , Macharia Anthony , Shibia Mumina
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

This study’s goal was to determine the perceived risks of infection as well as the perceived risks of hospitalization and death from COVID-19 in Ecuador and Kenya. It also assessed the factors associated with the risk-related perceptions.

Methods:

Cross-sectional studies with samples from the adult populations in both countries were conducted to assess the perceived risks of contracting COVID-19. Data were collected online using the Qualtrics platform (Qualtrics, Provo, Utah, United States) from samples of 1050 heads of households, aged 18 years or older, in each country. A total of 3 statistical analyses were conducted: summary statistics, correlation, and linear regression.

Results:

The average perceived risks of COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and death in the Kenyan sample were 27.1%, 43.2%, and 17.2%, respectively, and the values for the Ecuadorian sample were 34%, 32.8%, and 23.3%, respectively. The Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the risk measures in each country were less than 0.38. Risk measures were associated with several sociodemographic variables (e.g., income, gender, location), but not with age.

Conclusions:

The perceived risks of COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and death in Kenya and Ecuador were significantly higher relative to the statistics reported; however, no strong association existed between perceived risk and age, which is a key factor in adverse health outcomes, including death, among COVID-19 infected individuals.
Propagation of a planar shock wave along a convex–concave ramp
Authors: Thara Reshma I.V. , Vinoth P. , Rajesh G. , Ben-Dor G.
Published: August 2021

The propagation of a normal shock wave along a coupled convex–concave surface of equal radii has been analysed experimentally and numerically in this study. The experimental and numerical studies were conducted using a similar geometry as of that used by Ram et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 768, 2015, pp. 219–239) for studying the shock wave transition from regular reflection to Mach reflection. Many interesting flow features such as shock wave transitions over the ramp, characteristics of the induced flow behind the shock wave and the development of a stationary separation shock wave have been observed in the study. The numerical results are validated with experimental data. While the shock wave transitions over the ramp are found to depend mainly on the ramp geometry, the characteristics of the stationary shock wave and the flow separation in the concave region of the ramp surface have been found to vary with the shock wave Mach numbers.
The site of waist measurement impacts the estimation of visceral fat: results from three-dimensional photonic body scanning
Authors: Repp Katja , Radke Dörte , Ittermann Till , Albers Martin , Markus Marcello Ricardo Paulista , Santa Helena Ernani Tiaraju , Friedrich Nele , Bülow Robin , Völzke Henry
Published: August 2021

Currently, various protocols regarding the site of waist circumference (WC) measurement are in place. This study aimed to analyse the effect of the site of WC measurement on visceral adipose tissue (VAT) estimation. WC was obtained at 7 anatomical sites in 211 German volunteers (103 males) aged 23–81 years using three-dimensional photonic body scanning (PBS). At one site, WC was additionally measured by tape. The quantity of VAT was assessed by MRI. Models to estimate VAT based on WC were developed; the precision of the estimation is represented by R2. The influence of the applied method of WC assessment (tapev. PBS) on the estimations is reported. Results show that the amount of estimated VAT and the precision of VAT estimation were dependent on the site of measurement. VAT was estimated most precisely by WC taken at the level of the lowest rib (WCrib: R2= 0·75 females; 0·79 males), the minimum circumference (WCmin: R2= 0·75 females; 0·77 males) and at the narrowest part of the torso (WCnar: R2= 0·76 females; 0·77 males), and least precisely by WC assessed at the top of iliac crest (WCiliac: R2= 0·61 females; 0·60 males). VAT estimates based on WC obtained by PBS were smaller and estimations were slightly less precise compared to estimates based on tape measures. Our results indicate that the method and the site of waist measurement should be considered when estimating VAT based on WC. The implementation of a standardised protocol using either WCrib, WCminor WCnarcould improve the precision of VAT estimation.
Identification and selection of health technologies for assessment by agencies in support of reimbursement decisions in Latin America
Authors: Pichon-Riviere Andrés , Augustovski Federico , García Martí Sebastián , Alcaraz Andrea , Alfie Verónica , Sampietro-Colom Laura
Published: August 2021

Objective

There is no health system that has the resources to evaluate all technologies. The presence of a clear process to prioritize health technologies for assessment by health technology assessment (HTA) agencies is a good practice principle recognized at the international level. The objective of Health Technology Assessment International's 2020 Latin American Policy Forum (LatamPF) was to explore how to improve the way HTA agencies in Latin America identify and prioritize technologies for assessment.

Methods

This paper is based on a background document, a survey, and the deliberations of the members of the LatamPF (forty-six participants from eleven countries) using a design thinking methodology.

Results

Participants agreed that a lack of clear prioritization mechanisms results in HTA processes and decisions that are perceived to be of low transparency and overly exposed to political or interest group pressures. The LatamPF identified barriers and recommended actions to improve HTA prioritization mechanisms in Latin America. The criteria identified as the most important to be taken into consideration by HTA agencies in the region when prioritizing a technology for assessment were: the burden of illness, the potential clinical benefit, the alignment with national health priorities, the potential impact on equity, a lack of treatment alternatives for patients, and the potential economic impact.

Conclusions

Forum participants agreed that the establishment of transparent prioritization processes is a key element for all health systems. Improvements in these processes will strengthen HTA and provide greater legitimacy to decision making.
Symbiosis and Revolution: The Soviet Encounter with the War in Dhofar
Authors: Casula Philipp
Published: August 2021

This article discusses how the Soviet Union perceived and related to Middle Eastern revolutionary movements, using a case study from South Yemen and the War in Dhofar. This specific Soviet encounter will be analysed through selected Soviet material from published and archival sources. The article highlights how Soviet representatives assessed prospects for socialism in Yemen, and how they interacted with their partners on the ground. The article is divided into three parts: the first discusses the theoretical debates in Soviet academia and the press, the second section contrasts these theoretical views with Middle Eastern ‘socialist’ theories during the Cold War and the third shows how a symbiosis developed between Soviet and Yemeni institutions and organisations. The article argues that due to an Orientalist take on South Yemen and Dhofar, the Soviet side could not appreciate the political importance and potential of socialist currents in the region, reducing cooperation to ‘pragmatism’.
Parental Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in the Context of Pediatric Post-Intensive Care Syndrome: Impact on the Family and Opportunities for Intervention
Authors: Riley Andrew R. , Williams Cydni N. , Moyer Danielle , Bradbury Kathryn , Leonard Skyler , Turner Elise , Holding Emily , Hall Trevor A.
Published: August 2021

Objective: Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) survivors and their families experience ongoing impacts on physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning, described as post-intensive care syndrome. The objective of this study was to determine whether the posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) of parents predict the impact of critical illness on families following PICU admission beyond other factors (e.g., sex, race/ethnicity, age, insurance status, illness severity, family involvement or death). Method: We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 88 children aged 1 month to 18 years who were hospitalized with critical illness and acquired brain injury in the PICU and their families. Patients and their families participated in a 1–3-month postdischarge follow-up assessment, during which data on demographics, medical diagnoses, parent self-report of PTSS, and family impact of critical illness (via the Pediatric Quality of Life Family Impact Module) were collected. We used a hierarchical linear regression to determine whether parent PTSS predicted family impact above and beyond demographic and injury/illness factors. Results: One third of parents reported elevated PTSS. Among those with complete available data ( n = 56), PTSS were the only significant predictor of family impact (β = −.52, t = −3.58, p = .001), with the overall model accounting for 41% of variance. Conclusion: In addition to the direct effects on parents of children who survive the PICU, PTSS may negatively impact families and interfere with rehabilitative progress. We provide a rationale and conceptual model for integrating interventions designed to address parent PTSS into post-PICU care.

Implications for Impact Statement

Parents’ posttraumatic stress symptoms predict the impact of child critical illness on the family beyond other factors. Accessible, effective interventions to address posttraumatic stress symptoms of the parents of pediatric intensive care survivors are needed.
Foundry-compatible high-resolution patterning of vertically phase-separated semiconducting films for ultraflexible organic electronics
Authors: Wang Binghao , Huang Wei , Lee Sunghoon , Huang Lizhen , Wang Zhi , Chen Yao , Chen Zhihua , Feng Liang-Wen , Wang Gang , Yokota Tomoyuki , Someya Takao , Marks Tobin J. , Facchetti Antonio
Published: August 2021

Solution processability of polymer semiconductors becomes an unfavorable factor during the fabrication of pixelated films since the underlying layer is vulnerable to subsequent solvent exposure. A foundry-compatible patterning process must meet requirements including high-throughput and high-resolution patternability, broad generality, ambient processability, environmentally benign solvents, and, minimal device performance degradation. However, known methodologies can only meet very few of these requirements. Here, a facile photolithographic approach is demonstrated for foundry-compatible high-resolution patterning of known p- and n-type semiconducting polymers. This process involves crosslinking a vertically phase-separated blend of the semiconducting polymer and a UV photocurable additive, and enables ambient processable photopatterning at resolutions as high as 0.5 μm in only three steps with environmentally benign solvents. The patterned semiconducting films can be integrated into thin-film transistors having excellent transport characteristics, low off-currents, and high thermal (up to 175 °C) and chemical (24 h immersion in chloroform) stability. Moreover, these patterned organic structures can also be integrated on 1.5 μm-thick parylene substrates to yield highly flexible (1 mm radius) and mechanically robust (5,000 bending cycles) thin-film transistors.
Mirtron-mediated RNA knockdown/replacement therapy for the treatment of dominant retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Orlans Harry O. , McClements Michelle E. , Barnard Alun R. , Martinez-Fernandez de la Camara Cristina , MacLaren Robert E.
Published: August 2021

Rhodopsin (RHO) gene mutations are a common cause of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (ADRP). The need to suppress toxic protein expression together with mutational heterogeneity pose challenges for treatment development. Mirtrons are atypical RNA interference effectors that are spliced from transcripts as short introns. Here, we develop a novel mirtron-based knockdown/replacement gene therapy for the mutation-independent treatment of RHO-related ADRP, and demonstrate efficacy in a relevant mammalian model. Splicing and potency of rhodopsin-targeting candidate mirtrons are initially determined, and a mirtron-resistant codon-modified version of the rhodopsin coding sequence is validated in vitro. These elements are then combined within a single adeno-associated virus (AAV) and delivered subretinally in a RhoP23H knock-in mouse model of ADRP. This results in significant mouse-to-human rhodopsin RNA replacement and is associated with a slowing of retinal degeneration. This provides proof of principle that synthetic mirtrons delivered by AAV are capable of reducing disease severity in vivo.
Temperature-dependent kinetic pathways of heterogeneous ice nucleation competing between classical and non-classical nucleation
Authors: Li Chu , Liu Zhuo , Goonetilleke Eshani C. , Huang Xuhui
Published: August 2021

Ice nucleation on the surface plays a vital role in diverse areas, ranging from physics and cryobiology to atmospheric science. Compared to ice nucleation in the bulk, the water-surface interactions present in heterogeneous ice nucleation complicate the nucleation process, making heterogeneous ice nucleation less comprehended, especially the relationship between the kinetics and the structures of the critical ice nucleus. Here we combine Markov State Models and transition path theory to elucidate the ensemble pathways of heterogeneous ice nucleation. Our Markov State Models reveal that the classical one-step and non-classical two-step nucleation pathways can surprisingly co-exist with comparable fluxes at T = 230 K. Interestingly, we find that the disordered mixing of rhombic and hexagonal ice leads to a favorable configurational entropy that stabilizes the critical nucleus, facilitating the non-classical pathway. In contrast, the favorable energetics promotes the formation of hexagonal ice, resulting in the classical pathway. Furthermore, we discover that, at elevated temperatures, the nucleation process prefers to proceed via the classical pathway, as opposed to the non-classical pathway, since the potential energy contributions override the configurational entropy compensation. This study provides insights into the mechanisms of heterogeneous ice nucleation and sheds light on the rational designs to control crystallization processes.
Surface evolution and corrosion behaviour of Cu-doped carbide-reinforced martensitic steels in a sulfuric acid solution
Authors: Yamanaka Kenta , Mori Manami , Yoshida Kazuo , Onuki Yusuke , Sato Shigeo , Chiba Akihiko
Published: August 2021

Cu-doped martensitic steels (Fe–(13, 16)Cr–3W–2Cu–1C) (mass%) with multiple carbide precipitates were prepared at different quenching temperatures, and their corrosion behaviours were examined by measuring the weight loss during immersion in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution. Lower weight losses and corrosion rates were obtained for the alloy samples prepared at higher quenching temperatures. Surface Cu enrichment was observed for all specimens with a large fraction of dissolved Cr species. Moreover, quenching from higher temperatures not only reduced the amount of M23C6 carbide but also decreased the local electrochemical potential difference between the carbide phase and the martensitic matrix via enhanced surface Cu accumulation, thus increasing corrosion resistance by suppressing microgalvanic corrosion between the constituent phases. The corrosion behaviour of the studied steels was remarkably different from those of the Cu-doped stainless and low-alloy steels with passive oxide surface films, suggesting the strong effect of multiple carbide precipitates on their corrosion behaviour.