bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 52: Case Reports of Short-Term Outcome Following Mechanical Thrombectomy for Childhood Stroke May Be Overly Optimistic
Authors: Amlie-Lefond Catherine , Barry Dwight ,   TIPSTER Investigators
Published: June 2021

Background:
Meta-analyses of case reports and case series of mechanical thrombectomy in childhood arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) suggest that mechanical thrombectomy is associated with good short-term outcomes in approximately three-quarters of children.

Methods:
Retrospective data on 38 children treated between 2010-2019 with mechanical thrombectomy for stroke were collected from former Thrombolysis in Pediatric Stroke (TIPS) sites. To minimize reporting bias, sites were required to report all patients ≤ 17 years treated with mechanical thrombectomy either at the study site or at an outside hospital prior to transfer. Short-term outcomes, defined as change in NIHSS prior to and following mechanical thrombectomy (MT), were compared with 85 children from case reports/case series published between 2010-2019.

Results:
The mean age of children from former TIPS sites was 11.9 years, 50% male, 34% treated with IV tPA prior to thrombectomy. The mean age of published cases was 10.4 years, 65% males, 19% treated with IV tPA prior to thrombectomy. Case reports had a wider distribution of before-MT NIHSS scores, and a steeper decrease in distributions of after-MT NIHSS scores than those from study sites within 24 hours of MT (Figure 1A; medians: 15 to 4 in published cases, 12 to 8 in cases from sites) and at discharge (Figure 1B; medians: 15 to 3 in published cases, 12 to 5 in cases from sites).

Conclusion:
Patients reported to former TIPS sites had discernably lower rates of good short-term outcomes compared with published case reports and case series, suggesting publication bias. Capturing key metrics of safety and effectiveness of MT in children with AIS, including variations in care delivery in actual practice, will be critical in the creation of evidence-based guidelines for acute management of pediatric AIS.
Abstract TMP15: Asian versus Non-Asian, Differences in Characteristics, Management & Outcomes in the Enchanted Trial
Authors: Song Lili , Chen Chen , Wang Xia , Chen Xiaoying , Ouyang Menglu , Sun Lingli , Hisatomi Arima , Robinson Thompson , Lindley Richard I , Chalmers John , Li Gang ,   The ENCHANTED Investigators, Anderson Craig S
Published: June 2021

Purpose:
We aimed to determine differences in demographics, management and outcomes between Asian and non-Asian participants with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the Enhanced Control of Hypertension and Thrombolysis Stroke study (ENCHANTED).

Methods:
ENCHANTED was a partial-factorial trial in thrombolysis-eligible AIS patients randomly assigned to: (i) low-dose (0.6mg/kg) or standard-dose (0.9mg/kg) alteplase and; (ii) intensive (target systolic blood pressure [SBP] 130-140 mmHg) or guideline-recommended <180 mmHg) BP management. Functional outcomes included death or disability (mRS 2-6), disability (mRS 3-5) and death; key safety outcome was any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH).

Results:
Among 4562 patients (mean age 66.6 years, 37.8% female, 65.5% Asian) Asian patients were younger and less likely to have atrial fibrillation and hypercholesterolemia and taking fewer antihypertensive, warfarin, aspirin and statin therapy compared to non-Asians. They were also less likely to receive thromboembolic prophylaxis, be admitted to an acute stroke unit, be mobilized by therapist, and receive any rehabilitation over the first 7 days. Despite Asian patients having an increased risk of ICH (adjusted odds ratio 1.48, 95% confidence interval 1.22-1.8; P=0.0001), there were no significant differences compared to non-Asians for overall functional outcomes after adjustment for baseline imbalances. However, Asians had greater disability (1.48, 1.19-1.85; P=0.0005) but less deaths (0.38, 0.27-0.55; P<0.0001) after further adjustment for management differences.

Conclusions:
Compared to non-Asians, Asian patients were at increased risk of ICH and residual disability after thrombolysis treatment for AIS, suggesting the need to access more evidence-based care in acute management.
Abstract WMP1: Implementation of a Telestroke Program Based on a Smartphone Application
Authors: Martins Sheila C , Pontes-Neto Octavio , Carbonera Leonardo A , Souza Ana Claudia , Guimaraes Zan Diogenes , Dias Francisco A , Alessio-Alves Frederico , Martins-Filho Rui Kleber , Leon Mazza Nathalia L , Mazo Anna R ,   Brazilian Stroke Network
Published: June 2021

Background:
The increasing demand and shortage of experts to evaluate and treat acute stroke patients has led to the development of remote communication tools to aid stroke management. We aimed to describe the experience of the Brazilian Stroke Network in the implementation of a telemedicine stroke program using a low-cost smartphone application system (JOIN App, Allm, Japan) for rapid sharing of clinical and neuroimaging patient data.

Methods:
We evaluated the initial experience of the telestroke program using a smartphone app measuring its feasibility, safety and speed in the acute stroke decision-making process, with a particular focus on intravenous thrombolysis. The App was implemented in hospitals without neurologists available for acute stroke evaluation and was connected with a stroke team to support the decision for thrombolysis. We analyzed the times of acute treatment and safety through the rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) in 24hours. The program was implemented as part of the partnership with the Angels Initiative in Brazil supported by Boehringer Ingelheim to improve stroke care across the globe.

Results:
The telestroke program started in May 2019 and since then 7 hospitals, in 5 Brazilian states, were included. Only 2 of these hospitals had previous experience with stroke thrombolysis. In all hospitals, the patients were assisted by emergency physicians with eventual support of local neurologists. The telestroke program was activated for 58 patients. The median age was 68yo (IQR58-72), 47% were female and the baseline NIHSS was 11 (IQR8-16). In 69% of the activation the diagnosis was ischemic stroke (IS), 7% hemorrhagic, 5% TIA and 28% other diagnosis. Thrombolysis was suggested in 48% of all evaluations (70% of IS patients). A total of 53% of IS were actually treated with thrombolys. The response-time of the stroke experts was 2.6 minutes (2-6), door-to-CT scan 20min (15-31) and door-needle time 59min (27-81). None of the patients had sICH.

Conclusion:
In a telestroke program using a smartphone App, thrombolysis performed by emergency physicians was feasible and safe. This mobile low cost technology can increase the possibility of patients with stroke to receive treatment in regions without neurologists across the globe.
Abstract WMP24: Collateral Status Contributes to Differences Between Observed and Predicted 24-Hour Infarct Volumes in DEFUSE 3
Authors: Rao Vaishnavi , Mlynash Michael , Christensen Søren , Yennu Amarnath , Kemp Stephanie , Zaharchuk Greg , Heit Jeremy , Marks Michael , Lansberg Maarten , Albers Gregory ,   DEFUSE 3 Investigators
Published: June 2021

Background and Purpose:
We have previously shown that in the DEFUSE 3 trial, the infarct volume 24 hours after randomization was predicted by the union of the baseline core and the 24-hour Tmax>6s perfusion lesion. We determined if collateral robustness measured by the hypoperfusion intensity ratio (HIR) and cerebral blood volume index (CBV) accounts for the variance in infarct volume predictions.

Methods:
DEFUSE 3 patients underwent MRI with perfusion or CT perfusion at baseline and 24 hours after randomization. We used RAPID software to determine ischemic core and Tmax>6s lesion volumes as well as HIR and CBV Index at baseline and 24 hours. Patients were stratified by the difference between the predicted and the observed infarct volume at 24 hours. We compared baseline and follow-up HIR and CBV Index, as well as several other imaging and clinical outcomes in subgroups based on the accuracy of the infarct volume estimate.

Results:
Out of 123 eligible patients, 34 had 24-hour infarcts larger than predicted and these patients had less favorable collaterals (HIR 0.43 vs 0.32, p=0.006 and CBV Index 0.78 vs 0.85, p=0.001) at baseline, as well as at 24-hour follow-up (HIR 0.56 vs 0.07, p=0.004 and CBV Index 0.47 vs 0.73, p=0.006) compared to the 71 patients with more accurate infarct volume prediction. The remaining 18 patients had 24-hour infarct volumes smaller than predicted. These patients had similar baseline collateral scores but a more favorable CBV Index at 24 hours (0.81 vs 0.73, p=0.040) compared to patients with more accurate infarct prediction.

Conclusions:
Patients with 24-hour infarcts larger than predicted had evidence of less favorable baseline collaterals that fail within 24 hours, while patients with 24-hour infarcts smaller than predicted typically had favorable collaterals that persisted for at least 24 hours.

Clinical Trial Registration:
URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02586415
Abstract WP166: The Effectiveness of Statin Therapy After Onset of Acute Ischemic Stroke With Large Vessel Occlusion
Authors: Uchida Kazutaka , Yoshimura Shinichi , Sakai Nobuyuki , Yamagami Hiroshi , Morimoto Takeshi ,   RESCUE-Japan 2 Investigators
Published: June 2021

Background:
Statin therapy was reported to be associated with lower risk of recurrence of stroke and better functional outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke. However, the effect of statin therapy in patients with acute large vessel occlusion (LVO) was not well scrutinized. Thus, we evaluated the effect of statin administration after the onset of stroke on functional outcome based on the large registry study of acute LVO.

Methods:
RESCUE-Japan Registry-2 was a physician initiated registry study enrolled consecutive patients with acute LVO who were admitted within 24 hours of onset. We compared those with and without statin after onset in terms of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days. We estimated the common odds ratio (OR) for a shift towards better mRS adjusting for confounders.

Result:
Among 2420patients registered, 2399 patients were eligible. Mean age was 75.9 years and men accounted for 55%. Statin were administered in 447 patients(19%) after admission. There are more atherothrombotic cerebral infarction (statin group: 34.2% vs non-statin group: 12.1%, p <0.0001), younger age (73.4 vs 76.5, p <0.0001), and lower NIHSS on admission (14 vs 17, p <0.0001) in the statin group. The adjusted common OR of the statin group was 1.22 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04 - 1.37; p =0.02) compared with the non-statin group. The safety profile was similar between groups. The mortality at 90 days was 4.7 % in the statin group lower than 12.5 % in the non-statin group (p <0.0001). The adjusted OR of statin group for mortality was 0.36 (95%CI 0.21 to 0.62, p = 0.022).

Conclusions:
Statin administration after onset of acute LVO was significantly associated with better functional outcome and mortality within 90 days. Our findings should be attested by randomized clinical trials in patients with acute LVO in future
Abstract WP2: Long-Term Functional Outcomes Following Mechanical Thrombectomy Stratified by Race- Insights From the STAR Collaboration
Authors: Al Kasab Sami , Almallouhi Eyad , Lozano Diego J , McCarthy David J , Saini Vasu A , Alawieh Ali , Psychogios Marios-Nikos , Arthur Adam , Kim Joon-Tae , De Leacy Reade , Rai Ansaar , Keyrouz Salah , Fargen Kyle , Dumont Travis , Kan Peter , Spiotta Alejandro M , Starke Robert ,   STAR collaborators
Published: June 2021

Introduction:
Previous research reported higher prevalence of vascular risk factors and worse outcomes after stroke in non-white patients compared to whites. Whether similar results still apply in the post mechanical thrombectomy era remains unknown.

Methods:
The STAR registry combined the prospectively maintained databases of 11 thrombectomy-capable stroke centers in the US, Europe, and Asia. Consecutive patients who underwent MT were included in these analyses. Baseline features, risk factors, location of occlusion, time from symptom onset, tPA receipt, procedural complication rates, symptomatic hemorrhage, and long-term functional outcome were compared between white and non-white patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of race on long-term outcome.

Results:
Total of 2,284 patients were included in this analysis. Of those, 1,436 (62.9%) were white. Baseline features and outcomes are summarized in table 1. Non-white patients were older ( 71 Vs 66, p=<0.001), more likely to be female ( 53.1% Vs 48.5%, p=0.034), had lower NIHSS on admission ( 15 Vs 16, p=<0.001), higher prevalence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, lower incidence of atrial fibrillation, higher rate of tPA receipt, shorter onset to groin access times, and longer procedural times. White patients had higher rates of successful revascularization (77.4% Vs 72.3%, p=0.006) and longer hospital stay. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, white race was an independent predictor of good 90-day outcome (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.03-1.76, P=0.031) after controlling for age, sex, location of occlusion, IV-tPA, ASPECT score, procedure duration and final TICI score.

Conclusion:
In this study, white race was independent predictor of good 90-day outcome. This finding could be due to higher prevalence of vascular risk factors in non-white patients.
Abstract WP357: Maryland Stroke Coalition: Six Year Coordinated Cooperative Approach Improves Thrombolytic Performance
Authors: Yarbrough Karen L , Aycock Anna , Wozniak Marcella ,   Maryland Stroke Cntr Consortium
Published: June 2021

Background:
Stakeholders including physicians, nurses and regulatory officers from The Maryland Stroke Center Consortium and the Stroke Quality Improvement Committee of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems Health Care Facilities formed a Maryland Stroke Coalition (MSC) to improve stroke practices. The MSC performed a coordinated cooperative performance improvement project to implement interventions to: increase IV Alteplase administration rates and decrease median door to IV Alteplase administration time.

Methods:
Since 2012, the MSC met every two months to discuss challenges regarding IV Alteplase administration which included: decreased rates of administration and time to treatment delays. A PI project resulted in the following interventions being implemented: each center adopted AHA Target Phase III; educational presentations, academic centers sharing protocols, rapid implementation of new clinical practice guidelines, state mandated metrics, and sharing of state aggregate data. Stroke dashboards including metrics for IV volume and time to treatment became a standing item at each meeting.

Results:
The total number of patients who were administered IV Alteplase increased by 47% from CY 2012 (n=528) to CY 2018 (n=1133). The door to IV Alteplase administration median time in CY 2012 was 75 minutes compared to a median of 48 minutes in CY 2018. This represents a 36% (27 minute) decrease in median door to IV Alteplase administration time from CY 2012-CY 2018. The percentage of patients who received IV Alteplase
<
60 minutes increased by 50% from CY 2012 (33.6%; 140/437) to CY 2018 (67.1%; 671/802). The percentage of patients who received IV Alteplase
<
45 minutes increased by 22.7% from CY 2102 (10.2%; 51/502) to CY 18 (32.9%; 352/1071).

Conclusion:
The MSC’s coordinated cooperative approach to performance improvement was associated with increased IV Alteplase administration rates and decreased median door to IV Alteplase administration times. The MSC’s leadership plan is to perform a statewide cultural assessment to identify barriers and facilitators to assist stroke centers increase the percentage of patients who receive alteplase
<
45 minutes and to improve door in-door out times for mechanical thrombectomy patients.
Abstract WP58: Admission Blood Pressure and Infarct Volume in Patients With Large Vessel Occlusions. Insights From the ASTER Trial
Authors: Anadani Mohammad , Lapergue Bertrand , Piotin Michel , Kyheng Maéva , Labreuche Julien , Richard Sébastien , Gory Benjamin ,   on behalf of the ASTER investigators
Published: June 2021

Background:
Higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) has been shown to be associated with worse outcome after mechanical thrombectomy. However, it is still unknown if higher admission SBP is just an epiphenomenon of higher infarct volume leading to the worse outcome or if the SBP association with the outcome is independent of infarct volume. In this study, we aimed to study the correlation between admission SBP and both admission infarct volume and 24 change in infarct volume.

Methods:
This is a post hoc analysis of the ASTER randomized trial. Cuff admission SBP was measured on presentation prior to thrombectomy. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) infarct volume was measured on admission and at 24-hours post-procedure. Delta volume was measured by calculating the difference between the admission and 24-hour DWI lesions.

Results:
A total of 126 patients (mean age was 68.9 ± 14.8 years, median NIHSS was 17 (IQR, 11 to 20), 66% received tPA and 87% achieved mTICI 2b-3 at the end of the procedure) had MRI on admission and were included in this study. There was weak and not statistically significant negative correlation between admission SBP and infarct volume (R=-0.15; P=0.08). We did not find any correlation between admission SBP and 24 hours delta infarct volume. On generalized logistic regression analysis adjusting for infarct volume, SBP was associated with 90-day functional independence (modified Rankin Scale <3) (OR,0.84; 95% CI, 0.70-0.99; p=0.049).

Conclusion:
We did not find a significant correlation between infarct volume on admission and admission SBP. Moreover, the association between admission SBP and functional outcome was independent of infarct volume.
Abstract WP59: Cerebral Blood Flow Increase After Endovascular Thrombectomy on Perfusion Weighted Image is Associated With Hemorrhagic Transformation
Authors: Yoshie Tomohide , Atchaneeyasakul Kunakorn , Honda Tristan , Scalzo Fabien , Sharma Latisha , Hinman Jason , Rao Neal , Nour May , Bahr Hosseini Mersedeh , Saver Jeffrey L , Kim Doojin , Szeder Viktor , Jahan Reza , Tateshima Satoshi , Duckwiler Gary , Colby Geoffrey , Raychev Radoslav , Liebeskind David S ,   UCLA Reperfusion Therapy Investigators
Published: June 2021

Introduction:
The role of increased CBF after endovascular thrombectomy in post-ischemic hyperperfusion has not been studied in detail. We aimed to investigate the timing of CBF increases on PWI after thrombectomy in association with hemorrhagic transformation.

Methods:
We analyzed prospectively collected data in consecutive patients treated with endovascular thrombectomy. Inclusion criteria were: (1) patients with ICA or M1 occlusion, and (2) PWI and GRE obtained within 12 hours and 12-48 hours after thrombectomy. We compared each rCBF with early hemorrhage (within 12 hours after thrombectomy), late hemorrhage (12-48 hour) and non-hemorrhage in basal ganglia (BG) and MCA cortical or subcortical (CS) region. In each PWI dataset, ROIs were placed in two slice levels of the BG and three slice levels of the CS region.

Results:
Fifty-three patients met inclusion criteria. Early BG hemorrhages were noted in 13 patients, with 4 late BG hemorrhage, 8 early CS hemorrhage and 3 late CS hemorrhage. There were no significant differences on rCBF in PWI within 12 hours after thrombectomy between early hemorrhage, late hemorrhage and non-hemorrhage groups. In contrast, rCBF on 12-48 hours PWI in the BG region was significantly higher in the early BG hemorrhage than non-BG hemorrhage (lower BG slice 1.36 vs 1.01, p<0.001, upper BG slice 1.33 vs 0.96, p<0.001) and rCBF in CS region were significantly higher in early CS hemorrhage than non-CS hemorrhage (lower CS slice 1.55 vs 0.98, p=0.001, middle CS slice 1.31 vs 0.92, p=0.018). There were no significant differences in rCBF on 12-48 hours PWI between the late hemorrhage and non-hemorrhage group.

Conclusions:
Most intracerebral hemorrhages after thrombectomy were seen within 12 hours after intervention. A rCBF increase in hemorrhage cases was not seen on PWI within 12 hours after thrombectomy. rCBF increases on PWI 12-48 hours after thrombectomy, however, was associated with post-thrombectomy hemorrhage within 12 hours.
Charisma and History
Authors: Rotberg Robert I.
Published: June 2021

Because charisma is a social phenomenon, not an individual trait, its analytical utility in assessing and evaluating the quality and character of political leadership remains questionable. Cultural differences influence the traits and attributes that are internalized by one set of followers and not others. At the nation-state level, political leaders do arise who mesmerize their constituents charismatically, but too frequently that appeal is episodic, transient, and easily forfeited. Most of all, successful political leadership is more than behaving charismatically; delivering results in the form of economic growth, educational advances, health and medical services, and national self-respect are more important and more lasting. David Bell brings all of those considerations to the fore in a remarkable book that analyzes the charismatic appeals of Washington, Napoleon, Louverture, Paoli, and Bolivar, and raises important questions about the force of charisma in history.
Women and the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood post-2013: Calls for Gender Reforms and Pluralism
Authors: Biagini Erika
Published: June 2021

The Muslim Brotherhood’s brief period of governance in Egypt, followed by its 2013 ousting from, power heightened the movement’s pre-existing internal divisions, causing members to question the tenets upon which the organization was established and ran. Since then, a growing body of literature has investigated the Brotherhood members’ call for internal reforms, but this rests largely on the views of its male members. In order to fill this gap, this article explores how the Muslim Sisterhood, an important but often overlooked Brotherhood constituency, envisages the movement changing in the aftermath of 2013. Findings based on interviews with Muslim Sisterhood members suggest that the central issues over which women envisage change within the movement include the Sisterhood’s desire for greater pluralism, the possibility to express women’s diverse identities, and the ability to pursue personal ambitions.
Fragilaria irregularis sp. nov. a new araphid species (Fragilariaceae, Bacillariophyta) from the River Adegoy, Krasnodar Territory, Russia
Authors: CHUDAEV DMITRY , JÜTTNER INGRID , VAN DE VIJVER BART
Published: June 2021

During a survey of the diatom flora of the Adegoy River (Krasnodar Territory, Russia), an unknown Fragilaria species (Bacillariophyta) was found that could not be identified using the currently available literature and here we describe it as a new species. The morphology of Fragilaria irregularis sp. nov. was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy and compared to similar species including Fragilaria deformis, F. rinoi, F. septentrionalis and Fragilariforma bicapitata. It differed from these taxa in several characters. Most observed valves showed an irregular striation pattern, a feature not observed in other species. Other important differences include valve outline (linear with parallel margins) and stria density (7–14 in 10 µm, lower compared to all other species). The new taxon has a linear valve outline with parallel to weakly convex margins, subcapitate apices and a very irregular, coarse striation pattern.
Morphological groupings within Euphlyctis (Anura: Dicroglossidae) and description of a new species from the surroundings of Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala, India
Authors: DINESH K.P. , CHANNAKESHAVAMURTHY B.H. , DEEPAK P. , GHOSH AVRAJJAL , DEUTI KAUSHIK
Published: June 2021

The skittering frog genus Euphlyctis is known to have a distribution range from Arabian Peninsula to Bangladesh through India and Sri Lanka. Although species descriptions were initiated about two centuries ago in the genus with a small number of species described, taxonomic identities and genetic information for many species are still incomplete / inaccurate. Here, we report the systematic status of this group, discuss a series of taxonomic issues, and describe a new species. Based on morphological characters and colour patterns, and their reciprocal monophyly in the molecular tree, two morphological groups, ‘cyanophlyctis group’ and ‘hexadactylus group’ are established within the genus Euphlyctis. We discuss the genetic identity for E. cyanophlyctis, described 220 years ago from the Indian subcontinent, from the surroundings of its type locality. E. mudigere is proposed as a junior synonym of E. cyanophlyctis as it was described from populations here considered to originate from the general distribution area of the latter taxon, and without substantial genetic divergence from other populations here attributed to E. cyanophlyctis. The potential of resurrection of Euphlyctis seistanica due to distinct genetic population in Iran is discussed; this lineage appears to be genetically rather similar to E. kalasgramensis, and the species distinctness of these two lineages requires further study. The validity of E. kalasgramensis is also discussed in the context of the historically earlier nomina, Rana bengalensis and Rana leschenaultii due to distribution range overlaps. The prospects of establishing either Rana cyanophlictis variety fulvus or Rana cyanophlictis variety flavens from Sri Lanka are also mentioned. Based on a comparative account, we report the discovery of a new species of skittering frog Euphlyctis kerala sp. nov. which has a restricted distribution in the western coastal plains of India, south of the Palghat gap. [http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:02B1DE04-C40C-4AAD-AC87-EF97673A4BF5]
Application of Bovine Acellular Cancellous Bone Matrix in Alveolar Ridge Preservation Following Tooth Extraction
Authors: Zhu Hongguang , Bai Jianwen , Wei Meirong , Li Ti
Published: June 2021

Objective: In this article, we explored the microscopic structure and composition of the decellular-ized cancellous bone matrix of the calf, and established the animal model of Beagle dog extraction. By applying different bone substitute materials in the extraction of teeth,
we observed the new collagen-rich in the preservation of the site after tooth extraction. The protein bone matrix maintained the three-dimensional shape of the alveolar ridge compared to other biological materials. Methods: The microstructure of the new collagen-rich bone matrix was
observed by scanning electron microscopy. The porous structure, porosity and distribution of collagen fibers were observed. XRD and infrared spectroscopy were used to further detect the inorganic and organic components in the new collagen-rich bone matrix. The premolar extraction and site
preservation model of Beagle dogs were constructed. The changes of collagen-rich bone matrix, Bio-oss bone powder, CGF filling and blank control alveolar ridge volume were compared by CBCT. HE staining was used to observe and compare new bone formation, bone remodeling and bone resorption
between groups, and to observe the formation of blood vessels, osteogenic mineralization, trabecular bone formation and inflammatory response in different periods. Results: (1) The acellular bone matrix of bovine cancellous bone completely removes the immunogenicity of the cells and
has good histocompat-ibility; the pore diameter and porosity closest to the physiological structure, the main component is hydroxyapatite and collagen. (2) Site preservation can reduce the absorption of alveolar ridge following tooth extraction, preserve sufficient bone mass for alveolar fossa,
and retain a good width of attachment, which provides further protection for implant surgery. (3) In the post-extraction site preservation, the CGF group has better bone composition than the BABM group and Bio-oss bone powder. Conclusion: Bovine Acellular Cancellous Bone Matrix is a new type
of biological bone matrix. The main components are collagen and hydroxyapatite, which can promote bone formation in the extraction socket.
Effect of Theaflavin on Inflammatory and Remolding of Airway in the Asthma Mice
Authors: Hu Jingju , Yang Jing , Guo Hua , Yao Xuesong , Qiu Haiyan , Gao Panpan , Wang Qingchun
Published: June 2021

To study the effect of theaflavin on the airway’s inflammation and remodeling in mice with asthma. The mice were divided into the control, asthma model, and the theaflavin treatment groups to analyze the changes in pulmonary compliance and lung resistance of the mice with asthma
to theaflavin treatment. The theaflavin treatment groups consisted of the low-dose (15 mg/kg theaflavin-intragastric administration), medium-dose (30 mg/kg), and high-dose (60 mg/kg) groups. Alveoli lavage liquid was gathered from the mice to count the number of inflammatory cells, and the
levels of interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 5 (IL-5), interleukin 13 (IL-13), and eotaxin were detected by ELISA. The levels of proteins, such as transforming growth factor-1 (TGF-1), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), CyclinD1,CyclinD2, Toll-like receptors-4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation
factor 88 (MyD88), and NF-κBp65, which showed the performance of lung tissue was tested by Western blotting. Compared to the control group, the lung resistance of the asthma model mice was increased, and compliance was decreased after increasing concentrations of acetylcholine
(Mch) stimulation. Compared to the asthma model group, the pulmonary resistance was decreased, and pulmonar compliance was increased according to the rising concentration of Mch in theaflavin-L, theaflavin-M and theaflavin-H mice. Compared to the control group, the number of cells, macrophages,
acidophilic cells, lymph, and neutrophile granulocytes increased in the alveolar perfusion fluid of asthmatic mice. The level of interleukin 4, interleukin 5, interleukin 13, and eotaxin, TGF-β1, α-SMA, Cyclin D1, MyD88, TLR4, Cyclin D2, and NF-κBp65 proteins
of the lung was also increased. Compared to the model group, the number of cells, macrophages, acidophilic cells, lymph, and neutrophile granulocytes were decreased successively in the alveolar lavage fluid in the theaflavin-L, theaflavin-M, and theaflavin-H mice. Meanwhile, the content of
interleukin 4, interleukin 5, interleukin 13, and eotaxin were decreased successively, and the level of TGF-β1, α-SMA, Cyclin D1, MyD88, TLR4, Cyclin D2, and NF-κBp65 protein increased successively in the theaflavin-L, theaflavin-M, and theaflavin-H mice. Theaflavin
has been found to reduce airway inflammation, impede airway remodeling, and decrease the TLR 4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling in asthmatic mice.
Plantamajoside Ameliorates Inflammatory Response of Chondrocytes via Regulating NF-κB/NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway
Authors: Zhang Chi , Wang Yuanhe , Hu Chuan , Sun Kang , Yu Dingzhu , Tian Shaoqi
Published: June 2021

The damage of articular cartilage in osteoarthritis involves the oxidative stress and inflammation. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of plantamajoside (PM) in chondrocytes and elucidate the underlying mechanism. The cell viability following treatment with PM or lipopolysac-charide
(LPS) was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was supplied to determine the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, the oxidative stress-related markers were evaluated via assay kits. TUNEL assay was employed to stain the apoptotic cells.
The components of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and NLRP3 inflammasome were estimated by western blot analysis. LPS-insulted cell viability of ATDC5 was restored by PM. PM alleviated the inflammatory response and oxidative stress of ATDC5 cells induced by LPS.
Furthermore, it was found that the apoptotic cells were reduced following PM treatment. The protein levels of NF-κB, IκB kinase β (IKKβ) and NLRP3 inflammasome were decreased by PM. These results suggested that PM protected the ATDC5 cells
from LPS stimulation, alleviated the inflammatory response may through regulating the NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Improves Pregnancy Rate and Repairs Endometrial Injury in Patients with Repeated Implantation Failure
Authors: Liu Ling , Liu Xiaoyan , Luo Sheng , Wang Xiaohan , Xu Zhiyan , Hao Cuifang
Published: June 2021

Objective: The effects investigated in this study for the therapy with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on the thin endometrium in a rat model and patients with repeated implantation failure (RIF). Methods: PRP were immediately injected into uterine cavity after the
establishing a model of thin endometrial injury by injection with 95% ethanol into uterus of SD rat. We have used H&E staining to explore the endometrial morphological alteration. The immunohistochemistry, Western blots, and quantitative RT-PCR were used to determine the endometrial receptivity.
RL95-2 cells were incubated with RPR at the different concentrations to detect the effect of PRP on the endometrial epithelial cell proliferation. Patients (n = 51) were divided into the control and PRP treatment groups. Patients in the PRP treatment group received PRP by intrauterine
perfusion. Results: Endometrial morphology was significantly improved after PRP intrauterine infusion thrice-administered SD rats. PRP increased the thickness of thin endometrium in rats and up-regulate the expression of receptivity markers, including vimentin, vascular endothelial
growth factor (VEGF) and integrin β3. In the control (n = 25) and PRP treatment (n = 26) groups, no significant differences were observed in rates of clinical pregnancy (50.0% vs. 44.0%, p = 0.67), implantation (40.5% vs. 26.0%, p = 0.15) and miscarriage (30.8%
vs. 18.2%, p = 0.48). Conclusions: The transplantation of PRP repairs the endometrial injury by suppressing receptivity, enhancing endometrial cell proliferation and vascular remodeling. PRP improves the pregnancy rate in RIF patients.
Dexmedetomidine Inhibits Acute Lung Injury by Upregulating miR-144 Expression in Mice
Authors: Deng Liqiang , Zhao Min , Wang Yihao , Wang Xujian , Liu Juan
Published: June 2021

The understanding of lung injury’s mechanisms at the molecular level is not fully completed. MicroR-NAs (miRNAs), which are part of different pathophysiological processes, are essential biological regulators that operate by suppressing target genes. A mouse model of acute lung
injury (ALI), which is triggered by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), was used to analyze miR-144 level in the ALI mice with or without dexmedetomidine treatment. Inflammation was investigated by the ratio of wet weight’s value to dry weight (W/D) of the lung, the release of cytokines TNF-α,
cytokines IL-6, and cytokines IL-1β, and MPO activity. To validate the effect of dexmedetomidine on miR-144, overex-pression and knockdown of miR-144 were applied to treat antagomir144 and agomir144. The result suggested that LPS-triggered ALI was alleviated by dexmedetomidine.
miR-144 was downregulated in ALI mice. The knockdown of miR-144 attenuated the protection of dexmedetomidine to acute lung injury. Overexpression of miR-144 attenuated the ALI, which was induced by LPS.
Correlation Among the Expression, Clinical Significance and Prognosis of DJ-1 and Runt-Related Transcription Factor 3 in Rectal Cancer
Authors: Wu Xueliang , Zhang Haojian , Xue Jun , Guo Shengchao , Qu Ming , Han Lei , Sun Guangyuan , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: June 2021

This study explored the correlation among the expression, clinical significance, and prognosis of DJ-1 and RUNX3 in rectal cancer. Eighty-five cases of resected rectal cancer tissue were obtained from patients treated from June 2014 to June 2015. The expression ofDJ-1 and RUNX3 mRNA
was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and the expression of DJ-1 and RUNX3 protein was detected by immunohistochemistry. Their relationship to the clinicopathological features of the tumor was also analyzed. The correlation between the two proteins and survival
prognosis [5-year disease-free survival(DFS)] was analyzed. RT-PCR results showed that the DJ-1 mRNA expression of cancer tissue increased, whereas that of RUNX3 decreased. Immunohistochemical results showed that the positive rate of DJ-1 protein of cancer tissue increased (69.41% vs. 21.18%),
whereas that of RUNX3 decreased (40.00% vs. 77.65%). The positive expression of DJ-1 and RUNX3 was highly related to the cTNM staging of rectal cancer. Correlation analysis results showed a negative correlation between the genes in rectal cancer tissue. The follow-up records showed 5-year
DFS data as follows: 50.00% for the DJ-1+/RUNX3− group, 57.14% for the DJ-1−/RUNX3− group, 71.43% for the DJ-1+/RUNX3+ group, and 82.50% for the DJ-1−/RUNX3+ group, suggesting that
the 5-year DFS of the DJ-1+ group was lower, whereas that of the RUNX3+ group was higher. These results indicated that DJ-1 and RUNX3 were related to the occurrence, development, and progression of rectal cancer. Interestingly, there was a significant negative correlation
between the genes, which was important for the treatment and prognosis of rectal cancer.
The Effectiveness of a Forgiveness Intervention on Mental Health in Bereaved Parents—A Pilot Study
Authors: Záhorcová Lucia , Enright Robert , Halama Peter
Published: June 2021

The aim of this pilot study was to test the effectiveness of an educational forgiveness intervention on mental health in grieving parents. 21 grieving parents were randomly assigned to the experimental group (in which the educational forgiveness intervention occurred) and to the control group (in which a psycho-education grief intervention with a humanistic approach took place). Participants in both groups completed 12 individual hourly sessions for three months. The results showed that participants in the experimental group achieved statistically greater improvement in forgiveness towards others, self-forgiveness, and a greater decrease in depression in the post-test and follow-up test; a greater decrease in anxiety and anger in the post-test; as well as higher improvement in the post-traumatic growth in the follow-up test, four months after the end of the intervention. We highlight the potential benefits of using a forgiveness intervention with bereaved parents.
The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Individuals With and Without Mental Health Disorders
Authors: Campos Juliana Alvares Duarte Bonini , Campos Lucas Arrais , Martins Bianca Gonzalez , Valadão Dias Filomena , Ruano Rodrigo , Maroco João
Published: June 2021

Objective

To identify people with history of mental health disorders before the COVID-19 pandemic in the Brazilian population and estimate the prevalence of mood swings and the subjective distress of the pandemic among individuals with or without mental health disorders.

Methods

Through an online survey, participants were asked about presence or absence of mental health disorders. In addition, they answered the Brunel Mood Scale and the Impact of Event Scale. The mean percentile of mood swing indicators and psychological impact scores were estimated, and data were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

13,248 people participated (70.5% women, mean age 35.4 years, 31.2% with history of mental health disorder). Women and younger people were more likely to be diagnosed with mental health disorder. All participants had significant changes in mood due to the pandemic. Anger, depressed mood, mental confusion, and fatigue were higher among individuals with bipolar disorder or with combined disorders. Individuals with mental health disorders had a greater subjective distress, especially the group with bipolar disorder (OR = 4.89 [3.64–6.56]) and combined disorders (OR = 6.89 [5.21–9.10]).

Conclusion

Individuals previously diagnosed with mental health disorders at some point in life are more vulnerable to psychological impact from the pandemic.
The judicialization of religious freedom: Variations on a theme
Authors: Richardson James T
Published: June 2021

This article discusses places and historical circumstances where religious freedom is generally protected by governments, including their judicial systems, and contrasts this with examples where such is not the case. Societal conditions contributing to religious freedom derived from theorizing on the ‘sociology of religious freedom’ are discussed, focusing on the characteristics of legal systems. Included is an application of sociology of law theories concerning how minority religious groups sometimes prevail in legal battles, followed by discussion of ‘judicialization of religious freedom’ concept. International legal systems and organizations that promote religious freedom are briefly described before discussing recent developments in the United States involving conflicts between the Supreme Court and Congress as well as the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), with its generally strong record concerning religious freedom. Russia and China, where religious freedom is severely limited or virtually nonexistent, demonstrate conditions not conducive to religious freedom, causing minority faiths to suffer severe consequences.
Three Low-Tech Active Student Responding Strategies for Inclusive Online Teaching
Authors: Barbetta Patricia M. , Morales Melanie
Published: June 2021

This article discusses how three low-tech instructional strategies, typically used in face-to-face teaching, can be successfully used in synchronous and asynchronous online instruction with students with high-incidence disabilities and their typical-learning peers in inclusive online classes. The three strategies are choral responding, response cards, and guided notes. Each strategy has been researched extensively and has been shown to result in high levels of active student responding, which improves students’ learning with and without disabilities across various academic subjects and grade levels. With high-tech tools, such as video conferencing platforms and learning management systems, educators can successfully use these strategies during online teaching. This article describes each strategy, presents research on its effectiveness, and suggests potential adaptations when used during inclusive online instruction, including students with high-incidence disabilities and those at-risk.
Graphene oxide-coated amino-modified polyacrylonitrile to fabricate highly conductive fabrics
Authors: Cao Jiliang , Wang Chaoxia , Zhang Haixia
Published: June 2021

Graphene conductive polyacrylonitrile (PAN) substrate is an important material, owing to its high strength, flexibility, and comfort. In this work, a PAN fabric was cationized with triethylene tetramine (TETA) for increased adsorption of anionic graphene oxide (GO), which mainly forms ionic bonds. The TETA-modified PAN (Amino-PAN) fabric was then treated with GO using a dipping method followed by in situ reduction of GO to obtain reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The electric conductivity of Amino-PAN fabrics was increased with the increasing of TETA modification temperature from 90°C to 110°C. A surface electric resistance of 0.61 kΩ cm−1 was obtained for 2 g L−1 GO and TETA modification performed at 110°C for 2 h. This resistance was considerably lower than that of the original PAN fabric for one cycle of the dipping–reduction GO treatment (1RGO-PAN, 42.69 kΩ cm−1) and six cycles of the dipping–reduction GO treatment (6RGO-PAN, 1.52 kΩ cm−1). The results revealed that the anionic GO was more easily adsorbed on the surface of the Amino-PAN fabrics than on the original PAN fabrics. The surface electric resistance of the 1RGO-Amino-PAN fabrics slightly increased from 0.61 to 0.79 kΩ cm−1 after 30 washing cycles. The results showed that the RGO-coated Amino-PAN fabric had excellent washability. Furthermore, the TETA modification process reduced the dipping–reduction times of the GO finishing PAN fabrics, and can be easily used in the production of RGO-based flexible conductive material.
The Relationship Between Local Public Policies for Economic Development and Entrepreneurial Presence: The Italian Case
Authors: De Matteis Fabio , Bianchi Piervito , Striani Fabrizio , Preite Daniela
Published: June 2021

The financial crisis has made the theme of economic development particularly significant. Analysis of this topic cannot ignore a key actor, that is, public administration. Here, we focus on all the Italian municipalities ( n = 7,978), analyzing the relationship between local public policies (in terms of municipalities’ governance and local governments’ financial engagement) supporting urban economic development and local entrepreneurial presence (total number of active firms). Applying the general least square (GLS) method for over 4 years (2014–2017; n = 31,912 observations), we find that the financial autonomy of cities and their financial efforts toward international programs, agriculture, agri-food and fisheries, tourism, culture, and economic development policies favor entrepreneurial presence. Our conclusion, contributing to public management and policy literature, also highlights some limits of the research and some related opportunities for further research on the subject.
Closing Poverty-Based Excellence Gaps: Supports for Gifted Students From Low-Income Households as Correlates of Academic Achievement
Authors: Ayoub Alaa Eldin A. , Abdulla Alabbasi Ahmed M. , Plucker Jonathan A.
Published: June 2021

Previous studies on poverty within the gifted population have shown that economically vulnerable gifted students are underrepresented in gifted programs. Moreover, the majority of published studies on this topic were conducted in Western cultures. We explored the psychological, cognitive, academic, social, and environmental supports for economically vulnerable students in the Arab culture. The sample consisted of 142 male and female students who were randomly selected from 10 middle schools in rural areas in Egypt. To assess the supports of gifted students, researchers developed a self-report questionnaire. Grade point average was used as an indicator of academic achievement. Results from cluster analysis showed that there were three profiles for low-income gifted students. Multiple regression analysis indicated that environmental, social, and psychological supports explained 44% of the variance in academic achievement. Environmental supports played the most effective role in predicting students’ academic achievement, followed by social and psychological supports.
A Case Study: A Journey of Leading in Polycentric Theory and Practice in Mission
Authors: Franklin Kirk
Published: June 2021

Leadership and governance structures for any organisations involved in God’s mission need to come under review because of the growing influences of the inter-connected globalised world. As Christianity moved farther away from the Christendom model of centralised control to other models of leadership and governance, other paradigms have been proposed along the way. One is called polycentric leadership and governance and is based upon principles of polycentrism. Using a case study approach assists in giving contexts for assisting the understanding of polycentrism in a world where Christian mission is adapting in a rapidly changing polycentric world. The case study explores leadership, governance and specific focus of one geographic region all within the context of the Wycliffe Global Alliance.
War stimulus: The Japanese threat and rebirth of the North America Pacific Coast shipbuilding industry, 1937-1946
Authors: Madsen Chris
Published: June 2021

Henry Eccles, in classic studies on logistics, describes the dynamics of strategic procurement in the supply chain stretching from home countries to military theatres of operations. Naval authorities and industrialists concerned with Japanese aggression before and after Pearl Harbor looked towards developing shipbuilding capacity on North America’s Pacific Coast. The region turned into a volume producer of merchant vessels, warships and auxiliaries destined for service in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Shipbuilding involved four broad categories of companies in the United States and Canada that enabled the tremendous production effort.