bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of High and Low Training Dosage in Elderly With Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Authors: Chuang I-Ching , Wu Ching-yi
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This study aims to compare the effects of dosage of sequential combination of cognitive and physical exercise training for the elderly with MCI. The high dosage (HD) group received a total of 36 training sessions and the low dosage (LD) group received a total of 12 training sessions. Both groups improved significantly in physical, cognition, and daily function. The LD group saw more benefits in general cognitive function. It is suggested that LD training was enough to improve functions in elderly with MCI.

Primary Author and Speaker: I-Ching Chuang

Additional Authors and Speakers: Ching-yi Wu
Assessing Vocational Interests Among Incarcerated Women Using the Occupational Information Network (O*NET)
Authors: Washington Selena , Jaegers Lisa
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Incarcerated women face challenges to community re-entry and employment, including unemployment and low wages. We explored vocational interests with women (N = 114) at a midwest US prison. Career aspirations were explored through self-reported employment history and interests, O*NET survey, and Holland codes. Findings inform the development of OT interventions and prison programming to improve postrelease employment among incarcerated women.

Primary Author and Speaker: Selena Washington

Additional Authors and Speakers: Lisa Jaegers
Relationships Between OT Students’ Understandings of Disability and Disability Attitudes
Authors: VanPuymbrouck Laura , Friedman Carli
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This presentation describes the findings of a study exploring incoming OT graduate students’ understandings of disability and their implicit (unconscious) and explicit (conscious) attitudes toward it. The presentation will explore how students’ attitudes toward disability may be influenced by curriculum design, with discussion of strategies educators might incorporate to support or challenge their conceptual underpinnings of disability and its causes.

Primary Author and Speaker: Laura VanPuymbrouck

Contributing Authors: Carli Friedman
Visual Biases and Attentional Inflexibilities Differentiate Those at Elevated Likelihood of Autism: An Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Bristol Stephanie , Agostine Susan , Dallman Aaron , Harrop Clare , Crais Elizabeth , Baranek Grace , Watson Linda
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This study examined attentional inflexibility for children at elevated likelihood (EL) for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through use of eye tracking. The results indicate that the EL-ASD group had significantly fewer attention shifts from an area of interest to the rest of the screen. While we only assessed a static activity, we believe attentional inflexibilities are also present during occupational engagement, which has implications for OT practice. OT strategies to address this will also be discussed.

Primary Author and Speaker: Stephanie Bristol

Additional Authors and Speakers: Susan Agostine

Contributing Authors: Aaron Dallman, Clare Harrop, Elizabeth Crais, Grace Baranek, Linda Watson
Primary-Care Health Encounters for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Perceptions of Adults with ASD, Caregivers, and Providers
Authors: Duker Leah Stein , Pomponio Amber , Kim Sadie , Pfeiffer Beth
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Primary-care encounters can be challenging for adults with ASD. The purpose of this presentation is to identify challenges experienced by this population as well as strategies to mitigate these difficulties.

Primary Author and Speaker: Leah Stein Duker

Additional Authors and Speakers: Beth Pfeiffer

Contributing Authors: Amber Pomponio, Sadie Kim
Program Effectiveness of Life Skills Classes for Homeless Veterans
Authors: LeVan David , Blatt Allison , Cummings Colleen , Demyanovich Morgan , Tomer Emily , Weightman Jennifer
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This quasiexperimental study determined whether four homeless male veterans who partook in life-skills classes in a transitional housing program reported increased satisfaction and improved life skills according to the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Results of paired t-tests indicated no statistically significant change; however, all participants reported a self-perceived change of two or more points, which is clinically significant and could inform future programs and OT practice.

Primary Author and Speaker: David LeVan

Contributing Authors: Allison Blatt, Colleen Cummings, Morgan Demyanovich, Emily Tomer, Jennifer Weightman
Technology and Environmental Supports in the Home and Community: An Interprofessional Project in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Tamberrino Lucy , Greenberg Kimberly , Jacobs Karen , Khurshid Rebecca Pierce , Múnera Marcela , Cifuentes Carlos
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

The collaboration between OT and engineering can bring complementary perspectives together to create assistive technology that makes significant global impacts. In Colombia, two assessments were administered to identify factors that influence participation in home and community environments for individuals with ambulatory challenges. This research project provides a foundation for OT in Colombia to work with local engineering programs to identify home and community barriers.

Primary Author and Speaker: Lucy Tamberrino

Additional Authors and Speakers: Kimberly Greenberg, Karen Jacobs

Contributing Authors: Rebecca Pierce Khurshid, Marcela Múnera, Carlos Cifuentes
Supporting People’s Right to Participate in the Community: OT Practitioner Perspectives
Authors: McLane Emily , Heffron Jenna , Reid Leslie
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This qualitative study explored how OT practitioners (OTPs) address community participation (CP) within their clinical practices. Three interviews yielded four themes: OT’s role in CP, professional context, professional resources, and the “how to ” of CP. Findings demonstrate that OTPs have an important role in addressing CP. This poster presentation includes an overview of strategies that can support practitioners to more effectively address CP across practice settings.

Primary Author and Speaker: Emily McLane

Additional Authors and Speakers: Jenna Heffron

Contributing Authors: Leslie Reid
Attitudes, Beliefs, and Quality of Sleep Among Active-Duty Soldiers and the Impact on Occupational Performance: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Bell Jamie , Truax Chelsea , Contessa James , Stanley Brandon , Gregg Brian , Smith-Forbes Enrique , Woods Yvette
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This mixed-methods study informs OT on the quality, beliefs, attitudes, and functional outcomes of sleep among a sample population of active-duty soldiers. Significant relationships were found between poor quality, increased dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, and perceived decreased daily function. An overall essence emerged that contrary to acquiring knowledge of sleep hygiene principles, limited self-efficacy obstructs the ability to implement those principles.

Primary Author and Speaker: Jamie Bell

Additional Authors and Speakers: James Contessa

Contributing Authors: Chelsea Truax, Brandon Stanley, Brian Gregg, Enrique Smith-Forbes, Yvette Woods
Rapid Geriatric Assessment (RGA): A Tool for OT Within Older Adult Populations
Authors: Washington Selena , Henderson-Kalb Julia
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

To address the growing number of older adults (≥ 65 years) living with multimorbidity conditions (two or more chronic diseases), OTs will need to utilize evidence-based tools to identify and manage these conditions. In addition to traditional activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and functional performance measures, the RGA has proven to be a useful assessment tool for OTs, linked to direct intervention planning and functional outcomes.

Primary Author and Speaker: Selena Washington

Additional Authors and Speakers: Julia Henderson - Kalb
A Qualitative Study of Current Rehab Practices for Muscular Dystrophies: Views & Experiences of Rehab Professionals
Authors: Graf Kaitlin , Roche Joseph , Roche Renuka
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Individuals with adult-onset muscular dystrophies do not die from the disease but have progressive loss of occupational performance (OP) and quality of life. There is no consistent pathway for referral and access to rehab services. OTs are underutilized, even though the greatest need is improvement in OP. The lack of guidelines makes outcomes inconsistent. To work, gene therapies require muscle bulk. OTs may train clients in “muscle protection ” to maintain muscle, giving them a chance at a cure.

Primary Author and Speaker: Kaitlin Graf

Additional Authors and Speakers: Renuka Roche

Contributing Authors: Joseph Roche
Student and Faculty Perceptions of Clinical Competence During Problem-Based Learning
Authors: Farbaniec Nicole , Hackenberg Gabrielle , Vitale Jessica
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This research will help provide evidence for the current debate related to the doctoral mandate by comparing doctor of OT students’ and master of OT students’ levels of clinical competence based on faculty assessment and student self-perceptions during the completion of problem-based learning modules.

Primary Author and Speaker: Nicole Farbaniec

Additional Authors and Speakers: Gabrielle Hackenberg

Contributing Authors: Jessica Vitale
Educating Medical Students on the Roles of Occupational and Physical Therapy
Authors: Oldenburg Hannah
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Education of allied health professionals regarding OT services is essential for advocacy of the profession. This qualitative research project provides a feasible methodology as well as measurable outcome that is effective in improving both knowledge and confidence in making appropriate referrals to occupational or physical therapy.

Primary Author and Speaker: Hannah Oldenburg
From Preparation to Practitioner: The OT Student’s Voice as a Foundation of Education
Authors: Samz Rachel , Kusel Carolyn , Paly Stephanie , Monfort Lydia , Zimmerman Allison , Hoffman Haley , Stoffel Virginia , Perryman-Fox Michelle
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This research explored students’ perceptions and expectations of their graduate programs. Thirteen students participated and four themes were identified. Collectively, these four themes identify with the transition of becoming graduate students and subsequently newly qualified practitioners in a profession to which they desire to feel they belong, can shape, will sustain engagement with, and can overcome challenges within. The findings highlight the importance of the students’ voices as a foundation for preparing future practitioners.

Primary Author and Speaker: Rachel Samz

Additional Authors and Speakers: Carolyn Kusel, Stephanie Paly, Lydia Monfort, Allison Zimmerman, Haley Hoffman, Virginia Stoffel, Michelle Perryman-Fox
Intensive Power Mobility Training for Very Young Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Snider Kaitlyn , Zimmerman Peyton , Schneider Kelly , Morress Claire , Bishop Ann
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Intensive power mobility training is feasible for children with cerebral palsy ages birth to three years and can yield greater acquisition of power mobility operatory skills due to more frequent sessions, yet scheduling for these sessions can prove difficult with parents. This research study will advance professional practice because the results will add to the current literature to aid in creating a standardized intensive power mobility training protocol, as there is not currently one for this age group.

Primary Author and Speaker: Kaitlyn Snider

Additional Authors and Speakers: Peyton Zimmerman, Kelly Schneider, Claire Morress

Contributing Authors: Ann Bishop
Attitudes Toward Transgender Individuals Among OT Students and Practitioners
Authors: Huang Yan-hua , Villalobos Kendira , Villaescusa Nicole , Yamaguchi Laura
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

A correlational study determined if personal contact with transgender individuals and the amount of transgender-specific education are correlated with OT students’ and practitioners’ attitudes and knowledge of transgender communities. Results indicate that contact and hours of education have a significant association with knowledge. Research into factors that relate to preparedness in working with transgender clients is a step toward addressing transgender health disparities.

Primary Author and Speaker: Yan-hua Huang

Additional Authors and Speakers: Kendira Villalobos, Nicole Villaescusa, Laura Yamaguchi
Exploring Therapist Engagement Using Process Consultation
Authors: Spaide Rachel , Fleischer Anne , Humphrey Casey
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This study examines whether participation in a voluntary process consultation workgroup influences therapy outcomes. Therapist engagement and internal customer-service scores improved following the workgroup intervention. Employee-driven workgroups may be an effective means of increasing hospital quality and improving therapist engagement. This is particularly important as healthcare transitions toward value-based purchasing programs.

Primary Author and Speaker: Rachel Spaide

Contributing Authors: Anne Fleischer, Casey Humphrey
Interprofessional Perceptions of OT Services in Geriatric Primary Care
Authors: Kumar Pari , Sclarsky Hannah , Earland Tracey
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Two OT students initiated services in a geriatric primary-care clinic, where they worked with an interprofessional team. To assess the team’s perceptions of OT services, three surveys were modified to include quantitative and qualitative questions. Results indicate that OT services were well-received and add to overall patient care and service delivery. This research supports OT in geriatric primary care.

Primary Author and Speaker: Pari Kumar

Additional Authors and Speakers: Hannah Sclarsky, Tracey Earland
Examining the Influence of Age and Depression on Participation 5 Years After Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Erler Kimberly , Kew Chung Lin , Juengst Shannon
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Participation is a primary focus of OT and neurorehabilitation; however, there is a gap in understanding the association of depression and aging with participation. Therefore, this study aimed to (1) determine differences in participation between individuals with and without depression within the same age groups and (2) determine the differences in participation across age groups for individuals who are depressed and for individuals who are not depressed.

Primary Author and Speaker: Kimberly Erler

Contributing Authors: Chung Lin Kew, Shannon Juengst
Cognitive Self-Efficacy in Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
Authors: Toglia Joan , Foster Erin , Jethani Pooja
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Individuals with PD often experience cognitive deficits that can cause functional limitations and reduced quality of life. Cognitive self-efficacy (CSE), the belief in one’s own cognitive capacities, may impact how a person with PD performs and participates in cognitively challenging occupations or responds to cognitive interventions. Investigating CSE among individuals with PD would be important to effectively address functional cognitive performance and improve quality of life.

Primary Author and Speaker: Pooja Jethani

Additional Authors and Speakers: Erin Foster

Contributing Authors: Joan Toglia
Validity of the Vestibular and Proprioceptive Tests of the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration (EASI)
Authors: Petersen Jennifer , Mailloux Zoe , Leao Marco , Schaaf Roseann
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

The EASI is a new, comprehensive assessment of sensory, motor, and praxis functions. In order to enhance clinical utility within pediatric practices, concurrent and construct validity of the vestibular and proprioceptive tests were examined. Results showed that the EASI is a valid measure of vestibular and proprioceptive constructs.

Primary Author and Speaker: Jennifer Petersen

Additional Authors and Speakers: Zoe Mailloux, Roseann Schaaf

Contributing Authors: Marco Leao
Sensory Processing Mediates the Relationship Between Attention and Social Responsiveness in Young Adults With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Authors: Crasta Jewel , Davies Patricia , Gavin William
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/26/20

Attention, sensory processing, and social skills each represent targets for OT intervention in ASD, and understanding the complex interrelationships between these constructs will allow therapists to design more efficient interventions. Study results indicate that sensory processing, specifically low registration, fully mediated the relationship between attentional abilities and social responsiveness in 24 young adults with ASD and 24 age-matched neurotypical peers.

Primary Author and Speaker: Jewel Crasta

Additional Authors and Speakers: Patricia Davies

Contributing Authors: William Gavin
Efficacy of Intensive, Group-Based Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) for Young Children
Authors: Ryan-Bloomer Katherine , Farmer KayLee , Goossen Alexandra , Tien Jessie , Vaeth Molly , Tackett Bethany
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/27/20

This panel will discuss a research study measuring the effects of intensive, group-based CIMT for children with hemiplegia who are ages nearly two to six years old. Results produced many statistically significant improvements in unilateral function, bimanual coordination, and occupational performance, including social participation.

Primary Author and Speaker: Katherine Ryan-Bloomer

Additional Authors and Speakers: KayLee Farmer, Alexandra Goossen, Jessie Tien, Molly Vaeth, Bethany Tackett
Insight Into Sight on Site Grocery Shopping Tasks Performed by People Living With Severe Mental Illness: Eye-Tracker and Performance-Based Evaluation
Authors: Regev Sivan , Josman Naomi , Mendelsohn Avi
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/27/20

This study carried out a performance-based task combined with an eye-tracker device for both a control group and a group of people coping with severe mental illnesses. This was done in order to better understand difficulties in task performance and to deepen OTs’ and cognitive scientists’ understanding of client factor and to identify interventions in the most favorable way for the individual. Preliminary results show a difference between the groups in both observational and objective findings.

Primary Author and Speaker: Sivan Regev

Contributing Authors: Naomi Josman, Avi Mendelsohn
Schizophrenia and Motor Learning: A Scoping Review
Authors: Dimitropoulou Katherine , Westover Lee
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/27/20

Schizophrenia is commonly understood as a mental illness, but a growing body of evidence indicates that it is a complex neurological condition that profoundly impacts motor performance and learning. Thus, functional skills and participation are significantly affected. This scoping review aims to understand motor-learning processes in adults with schizophrenia with the goal of expanding our ability to support functional skill development in this population.

Primary Author and Speaker: Lee Westover

Additional Authors and Speakers: Katherine Dimitropoulou
Managing Everyday Health-Related Decisions Among Children and Adolescents With Celiac Disease
Authors: Meyer Sonya , Lionetti Elena , Catassi Carlo
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/27/20

Celiac disease is a chronic condition that’s treated by a strict, lifelong, gluten-free diet. Children and adolescents with celiac face ongoing challenges of making daily dietary choices. As children grow, they need to become more involved in the decision-making process and take on self-management responsibilities. OTs have an important role in promoting self-management of celiac disease and the decision-making process during the transition years from adolescence to young adulthood.

Primary Author and Speaker: Sonya Meyer

Contributing Authors: Elena Lionetti, Carlo Catassi
Voices of Female Student Veterans Expressed Through Photographs
Authors: Yeager Jenna
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

Veterans entering college experience transition challenges that may affect their academic success and well-being. Photovoice, interviews, and focus groups were used to explore the patterns of occupational engagement of female college-student veterans, as well as supports and barriers to their well-being. This presentation will highlight the results as depicted in Photovoice pieces and their corresponding narratives, in addition to transcription of interviews and focus groups.

Primary Author and Speaker: Jenna Yeager
Scholarly Reflections on the State of the Profession’s Embrace of Disability Studies
Authors: Sheth Alisa , VanPuymbrouck Laura , Heffron Jenna , Kish Jacqueline , Mahaffey Lisa , Lee Danbi
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

A 2005 special issue of the American Journal of OT was dedicated to the growing influence of disability studies on the profession. Authors from this journal reflected upon how shifting perspectives of disability might inform future research and intervention design. This study sought out these authors to explore their current perspectives on disability studies within the profession using thematic analysis to understand if or how suggestions and recommendations from the 2005 manuscript have been attended to.

Primary Author and Speaker: Laura VanPuymbrouck

Additional Authors and Speakers: Alisa Sheth, Jenna Heffron, Jacqueline Kish, Lisa Mahaffey

Contributing Authors: Danbi Lee
Occupational Performance Limitations Experienced by Postsecondary Students Following Concussion
Authors: Acord-Vira Amanda , Davis Diana
Published: July 2020

Date Presented 03/28/20

This research describes occupational-performance limitations experienced by postsecondary students following concussion. Students reported occupational-performance limitations in education, vocation, and social activities. All students reported performance limitations; no statistically significant differences were found between student athletes and nonathletes. The results indicate that there is a role for OT in postconcussion care to address occupational-performance limitations.

Primary Author and Speaker: Amanda Acord-Vira

Additional Authors and Speakers: Diana Davis
Subversive Spanish Cinema
Authors: Noble Fiona
Published: July 2020

A camp lipsynched routine by three air stewards distracts unsuspecting passengers from the fact that their plane is to make a crash landing. Performance functions as a diversion from unsavoury realities. In this way, Pedro Almodóvar’s 2013 film I’m So Excited adopts a strategy of subversive anti-establishment censor-evading filmmaking practices under Franco. Contemporary cinematic performance in Spain intersects with politics to provide a platform for views and voices that do not conform to the dominant political narrative.

An essential text for scholars, students and aficionados of Spanish cinema, Subversive Spanish Cinema: The Politics of Performance is the first single-authored monograph to focus on performance in this context. The book analyses interactions between performance and politics in technical and conceptual terms considering, for example, performance styles, the narrative role of performance and political interventions by actors such as Javier Bardem and Juan Diego Botto. Ultimately, Subversive Spanish Cinema: The Politics of Performance posits performance, within the specific context of contemporary Spanish cinema, as a politically-potent device and proposes that it is precisely for this reason that the arts have borne the brunt of aggressive austerity measures enforced by Spain’s conservative government in recent years.
Janet Jackson's The Velvet Rope
Authors: Dozier Ayanna
Published: July 2020

The question of control for Black women is a costly one. From 1986 onwards, the trajectory of Janet Jackson’s career can be summed up in her desire for control. Control for Janet was never simply just about her desire for economic and creative control over her career but was, rather, an existential question about the desire to control and be in control over her bodily integrity as a Black woman.

This book examines Janet’s continuation of her quest for control as heard in her sixth album, The Velvet Rope. Engaging with the album, the promotion, the tour, and its accompanying music videos, this study unpacks how Janet uses Black cultural production as an emancipatory act of self-creation that allows her to reconcile with and, potentially, heal from trauma, pain, and feelings of alienation. The Velvet Rope’s arc moves audiences to imagine the possibility of what emancipation from oppression--from sexual, to internal, to societal--could look like for the singer and for others. The sexually charged content and themes of abuse, including self-harm and domestic violence, were dismissed as “selling points” for Janet at the time of its release. The album stands out as a revelatory expression of emotional vulnerability by the singer, one that many other artists have followed in the 20-plus years since its release.
Risk of cardiovascular disease with lipoprotein(a) in familial hypercholesterolemia: a review
Authors: Watanabe Jun , Hamasaki Masato , Kotani  Kazuhiko
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is a risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), which exhibits high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, is a risk factor of CVD. The relationship of Lp(a) with CVD has been characterized in populations specific to FH.

Material and methods

Studies reporting on the relationship of Lp(a) with CVD among FH subjects via PubMed up to 2020 were reviewed.

Results

Eight studies were identified as eligible. In the meta-analyses, a high Lp(a) level was significantly and predictively associated with CVD compared to a low Lp(a) level in 2 cross-sectional studies (odds ratio = 2.57; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16–5.73) and 6 cohort studies (risk/hazard ratio = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.50–2.43). The totally integrated relative risk of these studies was 1.97 (95% CI: 1.57–2.46).

Conclusions

FH subjects with high Lp(a) levels can have a high CVD risk, and besides LDL-C, attention should be paid to Lp(a) levels in FH subjects.
Comparison of effectiveness and survival after the MitraClip or Carillon procedure for severe functional mitral regurgitation: a single-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Heyl Stephan , Nikkhoo Aria , Wieszner Markus , Fichtlscherer Stephan , Seeger Florian , Assmus Birgit , Luu Brigitte , Hemmann Katrin , Walther Claudia , Honold Joerg
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Current studies suggest improved survival in patients with severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) treated successfully with the MitraClip (MC) compared to medical treatment alone, in addition to a significant reduction of FMR severity. Recently, the Carillon system (CS) has also been shown to significantly reduce FMR. However, whether this beneficial effect of CS also translates into a survival benefit comparable to the MC system has not been investigated so far. The aim of the study was to compare the course of FMR grade and mortality after MC or CS in a retrospective, non-randomized, single-center analysis.

Material and methods

A hundred and fifty-four patients with symptomatic FMR 2+ were included in this study (MC: n = 117, CS: n = 37). Baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between groups.

Results

Initially, the degree of FMR was reduced in the MC group from 2.9 ±0.3 to 1.7 ±0.7 and from 2.7 ±0.5 to 2.1 ±0.7 in the CS group, p within and between groups < 0.01. Within 6 months, FMR remained reduced in the MC group (1.83 ±0.6) and CS group (2.1 ±0.7). One-year survival was 34.8% in the MC group and 54.8% in the CS group (p = 0.663). Median long-term survival was 1.66 years in the MC group and 3.92 years in the CS group, log rank p = 0.001.
Investigative biological therapies for primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: He Shi-Hao , Xuan Yi-Yi , Liang Xu , Guo Kuang-Jin , Wang Yan , Fu Xiao-Ning , Li Tian-Fang
Published: July 2020

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by dryness of the eyes and mouth. The histological feature is mononuclear cell infiltration in exocrine glands, primarily salivary and lachrymal glands. As the disease progresses, some other tissues and organs may be involved and extraglandular manifestations ensue. The major current treatments are palliative and empirical, and in most cases the outcomes are not satisfactory.

Emerging data indicate a critical role of lymphocytes in its development and progression. While pioneering work targeting B cells has demonstrated some encouraging results, more trials are warranted to validate the safety and efficacy. In addition, modulation of T cell function with abatacept ameliorates the severity of pSS. Furthermore, clinical trials to inhibit important cytokines involved in its formation have been carried out. In this article, we summarize and compare current biological therapies in order to find new and effective treatments for pSS.
Hostile climates are barriers to diversifying the geosciences
Authors: Marín-Spiotta Erika , Barnes Rebecca T. , Berhe Asmeret Asefaw , Hastings Meredith G. , Mattheis Allison , Schneider Blair , Williams Billy M.
Published: July 2020

Abstract. The geosciences are one of the least diverse disciplines in the United States, despite the field's relevance to livelihoods and local and global economies. Bias, discrimination, and harassment present serious hurdles to diversifying the field. These behaviors persist due to historical structures of exclusion, severe power imbalances, unique challenges associated with geoscientist stereotypes, and a culture of impunity that
tolerates exclusionary behaviors and marginalization of scholars from
underserved groups. We summarize recent research on exclusionary behaviors that create hostile climates and contribute to persistent low retention of diverse groups in the geosciences and other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. We then discuss recent initiatives in the US by geoscience professional societies and organizations, including the National Science Foundation-supported
ADVANCEGeo Partnership, to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion by
improving workplace climate. Social networks and professional organizations
can transform scientific culture through providing opportunities for
mentorship and community building and counteracting professional isolation
that can result from experiencing hostile behaviors, codifying ethical
practice, and advocating for policy change. We conclude with a call for a
reexamination of current institutional structures, processes, and practices
for a transformational and equitable scientific enterprise. To be truly
successful, cultural and behavioral changes need to be accompanied by
reeducation about the historical political structures of academic
institutions to start conversations about the real change that has to happen
for a transformational and equitable scientific enterprise.
Planetary Radar Science Case for EISCAT 3D
Authors: Tveito Torbjørn , Vierinen Juha , Gustavsson Björn , Narayanan Viswanathan Lakshmi
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Ground-based inverse synthetic aperture radar is a tool that can provide insights into the early history and formative processes of planetary bodies in the inner Solar System. This information is gathered by measuring the scattering matrix of the target body, providing composite information about the physical structure and chemical makeup of its surface and subsurface down to the penetration depth of the radio wave. This work describes the technical capabilities of the upcoming 233 MHz EISCAT 3D radar facility for measuring planetary surfaces. Estimates of the achievable signal-to-noise ratios for terrestrial target bodies are provided. While Venus and Mars can possibly be detected, only the Moon is found to have sufficient signal-to-noise ratio to allow high resolution mapping to be performed. The performance of the EISCAT 3D antenna layout is evaluated for interferometric range-Doppler disambiguation and it is found to be well suited for this task, providing up to 20 dB of separation between Doppler north and south hemispheres in our case study. The low frequency used by EISCAT 3D is more affected by the ionosphere than higher frequency radars. The magnitude of the Doppler broadening due to ionospheric propagation effects associated with traveling ionospheric disturbances has been estimated.The effect is found to be significant, but not severe enough to prevent high resolution imaging. A survey of Lunar observing opportunities between 2022 and 2040 are evaluated by investigating the path of the sub-radar point when the Moon is above the local radar horizon. During this time, a good variety of look directions and Doppler equator directions are found, with observations opportunities available for approximately ten days every lunar month. EISCAT 3D will be able to provide new high quality polarimetric scattering map of the near-side of the Moon with a previously unused wavelength of 1.3 m, which provides a good compromise between radio wave penetration depth and Doppler resolution.
Evaluation of Changes in Some Physico-Chemical Properties of Bottled Water Exposed to Sunlight in Bauchi, Nigeria
Authors: Daffi Rose E. , Wamyil Fwangmun B.
Published: July 2020

Abstract. It is common for bottled water and other assorted drinks to be seen displayed outside stores and in the sun in most parts of Nigeria. The country is mostly hot year-round and over the course of the year temperatures can rise to as high as 40 °C around March–April in the study area. The leaching effect of chemicals from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottled water was investigated for five (5) commercially available bottled water brands. Temperature, pH, Antimony, Bisphenol A and Nitrate levels were measured on day zero, 14 and 28 for control samples and samples exposed to direct sunlight, using destructive sampling technique. The study found that pH for brands B and D were lower than the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) regulations at day zero. The control sample for Brand A maintained pH within the guideline values for 0–28 days while all Brands exposed to sunlight for 14 and 28 days had lower values than specified. Antimony was not detected in brands A, B and E in the baseline measurement at day zero while brands C and D had low values; after 28 days all the control samples still had Antimony levels within the US EPA standard. Meanwhile all the samples exposed to sunlight exceeded US EPA standard levels at 14 and 28days except brand A which was within limit at 14 days with value of 4.59 µg/L. All control and exposed samples were below the European Union Drinking Water Directive (EU DWD) total daily intake (TDI) of Bisphenol A (0.05 mg/kg body weight/day). Values obtained for Nitrate showed that all control samples did not exceed the US EPA guideline level for Nitrates in drinking water for 0, 14 ad 28 days while three (3) of the samples, Brands C, D and E, exceeded the guideline level at 28 days. Expose of bottled water to sunlight was seen to impair the quality of the water for consumption. It is recommended that regulators and practitioners drive implementation of proper storage/retailing of bottled water products and improve legislation on manufacture of plastics for food contact products.
Intra-cultivar variability at microsatellite loci in date palm cultivars across the GCC countries
Authors: Elmeer Khaled , Mattat Imene , Al Malki Ameena , Al-Mamari Al-Ghaliya , Al-Jabri Abdullah , Buhendi Alaa , Alkhabaz Shaima , Abu-Idrees Amani , Abdulkaream Abdullaziz , Udupa Sripada M. , Baum Michael
Published: July 2020

In this study, we characterized 30 date palm trees of Khalas cultivar from the GCC countries, along with seven male trees from Qatar, using 14 microsatellite loci. The results showed that the microsatellites [(GA)n] in the date palm cultivar Khalas varied considerably in allele size (range = 120–322 bp, mean = 189.78), which revealed a high degree of gene diversity (range = 0.66–0.85, mean = 0.75) and distinguished all the individual Khalas trees within and among the GCC countries. The extent of polymorphism microsatellite loci was dependent on individual loci itself, which was positively correlated with the number of repeats at the corresponding microsatellite loci. The estimates of the skewness and kurtosis of the allelic distributions showed that none of the distribution of 14 microsatellite loci was considered normal (skewness = 0, kurtosis = 3), which suggested that the shape of the allelic distribution of these loci varied by chance. In the majority of the cases, the microsatellite allele size of the most frequent allele (mode) was very close to the median ( ± 2 bp or ± (GA)1), which indicated that the most frequent allele was the ancestral allele. Nearly half of the allelic distributions of the 14 microsatellite loci were positively skewed and the other half was negatively skewed, which indicated that the alleles evolved respectively by gaining and losing of (GA)n repeats from the ancestral allele, resulting in intra-cultivar variability in Khalas cultivar over the generations. Based on this analysis, we conclude that the Khalas variety did not evolve independently at multiple origins, but rather it evolved from a single origin and, subsequently, the clones were distributed across the GCC countries. The accumulated mutations of these clones over time resulted in drastic changes among them at the microsatellite loci.
Spain’s national network of silos and granaries: architectural and technological change over time
Authors: Fernández-Fernández Manuel V. , Marcelo Victor , Valenciano José B. , López F.-Javier , Pastrana Pablo
Published: July 2020

Aim of study: To analyse the 670 silos in Spain’s NNSG (National Network of Silos and Granaries), along with the changes in typologies and degree of mechanisation taking place over time.Area of study: Spain.Material and methods: Research began in 2014, collecting NNSG grain storage data across Spain further to the methodology developed by the authors. In a first stage the information was gathered from the FEGA’s general archives in Madrid and the archives of the departments of agriculture in the 13 regions where silos were built. In the second stage of the study, 665 silos were explored in situ. Photographs were taken and information was gathered on their characteristics (general features; architectural features; technological facilities).Main results: This paper discusses the architectural and typological changes taking place over time, from the earliest small, local, richly adorned brick silos to larger, more modern and austere reinforced concrete structures. The machinery with which they are fitted is also addressed, with the progression from basic grain storage to more sophisticated equipment designed to clean, refrigerate or disinfect the grain. Some facilities were used exclusively to select and condition seed for subsequent sowing. The most modern structures, known as macrosilos, are highly mechanised affairs.Research highlights: Spain’s national network of silos and granaries was 41 years in the building. The inventory of the 665 existing silos identified 20 types or subtypes. Early richly adorned units gradually gave way to more austere, functional structures. The machinery in place in silos varied with type/purpose and period of construction.
Examining the Formation of Integrative Readiness of Pre-Service Teachers to work in Inclusive Classrooms in Ukraine
Authors: Yashchuk Olena M. , Yashchuk Serhii M. , Kobernyk Halyna I. , Kotlovyi Serhii A. , Biletska Iryna O.
Published: July 2020

The article addresses potential issues surrounding the development of the integrative readiness of pre-service teachers to work in inclusive classrooms in Ukraine. Integrative readiness is an open, dynamic, synergistic system functioning of cognitive, motivational, affective, and selective processes which is developed through the purposeful training of future teachers for work in inclusive, which is included in the educational social environment as a tool for acquiring productive knowledge, forming integrative skills. The structure of integrative readiness includes personality orientation; ability to perform their duties, professional competences; productive knowledge that the student receives from environmental information based on personal prior knowledge, skills, personal and professional qualities, and integrative skills that demonstrate the ability of an individual to make independent decisions and appropriate actions in unpredictable new situations. The levels of integrative readiness were investigated, covering the following interrelated stages: theoretical analysis, synthesis, comparison; modelling and technological design; generalization; observational; pedagogical experiment. A study was conducted. The research involved 285 pre-service teachers from the Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, enrolled in the Speciality 016: Special Education unit. A structural model of the formation of integrative readiness of future teachers for professional activity was developedwhich consisting of the following blocks: target, content and procedural, and resultant. The research finding reported that the effectiveness of corrective, developmental, and educational work in the educational inclusive space largely depended upon the quality of training of the pre-service teacher, and the use of active and interactive training.
Resident, Fellow, and Attending Perception of E-Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Implications on Future Orthopaedic Education
Authors: Essilfie Anthony A. , Hurley Eoghan T. , Strauss Eric J. , Alaia Michael J.
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate resident, fellow, and attending perspectives on the use of e-learning as part of orthopaedic surgery education.

Methods:

A survey was created evaluating (1) overall attitudes toward e-learning, (2) multi-institutional e-learning/e-conferences, (3) national/regional e-conferences, and (4) future directions with e-learning. The survey was distributed to all the orthopaedic surgery residency program directors in the United States, and they were asked to circulate the survey to their program's faculty and trainees.

Results:

A total of 268 responses were collected, including 100 attendings and 168 trainees. Overall satisfaction with e-learning compared with in-person learning was higher among trainees than attending faculty, with 51.4% of trainees favoring e-learning, as opposed to 32.2% of attendings (P = 0.006). Both groups felt they were more likely to pay attention with in-person learning (P = 0.89). During the COVID-19 pandemic, 85.7% of residents have used e-learning platforms to join a conference in their specialty of interest while off-service. Most attendings and trainees felt e-learning should play a supplemental role in standard residency/fellowship education, with a low number of respondents feeling that it should not be used (86.6% versus 84%, and 2.1% versus 0.6%, respectively, P = 0.28).

Conclusion:

E-learning has been an important modality to continue academic pursuits during the disruption in usual education and training schedules during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most trainees and attendings surveyed felt that e-learning should play a supplementary role in resident and fellow education moving forward. Although e-learning does provide an opportunity to hold multi-institutional conferences and makes participation in meetings logistically easier, it cannot fully replicate the dynamic interactions and benefits of in-person learning.
Comprehensive assessment of the morbidity of renal mass biopsy: A population-based assessment of biopsy-related complications
Authors: Garbens Alaina , Wallis Christopher , Klaassen Zachary , Saskin Refik , Plumptre Lesley , Kodama Ronald , Herschorn Sender , Nam Robert
Published: July 2020

Introduction: We sought to assess seven-day and 30-day complications following renal mass biopsy (RMB), including mortality, hospitalizations, emergency department (ED) visits, and operative and non-operative complications and compare these to rates in population matched controls.

Methods: We performed a population-based, matched, retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing RMB following consultation with a urologist and axial imaging from 2003–2015 in Ontario, Canada. Data on seven-day and 30-day rates of mortality, operative and non operative complications after RMB were reported. The seven-day and 30-day rates of mortality, operative and non-operative interventions, hospitalizations, and ED visits were compared to matched controls using multivariable logistic regression.

Results: Among 6840 patients who underwent RMB in the study period, 24 (0.4%) and 159 (2.3%) died within seven and 30 days, respectively, of their biopsy. Seven- and 30-day operative intervention rates were 79 (1.2%) and 236 (3.4%), respectively. Seven- and 30-day non-operative intervention rates were 227 (3.3%) and 529 (7.7%) respectively. Thirty-day mortality (odds ratio [OR] 8.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.1–13.0), hospitalizations (OR 12.6; 95% CI 10.6–15.2), and ED visits (OR 3.8; 95% CI 3.4–4.3) were more common among patients who underwent RMB than the matched controls (p<0.001 for each).

Conclusions: Patients undergoing RMB may have a small but non-negligible increased risk of mortality, hospital readmission, and ED visits compared to matched controls. However, limitations in the granularity of the dataset limits the strength of these conclusions. Further studies are needed to confirm our results. These risks should be discussed with patients for shared decision-making and considered in the risk/benefit tradeoff for the management of small renal masses.
Unilateral Diaphragm Paralysis Associated With Neurosyphilis: A Case Report
Authors: Huh Sungchul , Chung Jae Heun , Kwon Han Jo , Ko Hyun-Yoon
Published: July 2020

Diaphragm dysfunction can originate from various etiologies, and bilaterality of the dysfunction depends on the cause. Symptoms of diaphragm dysfunction vary depending on the degree of phrenic nerve denervation, spinal cord lesion, and involvement of the diaphragm. Several infectious diaphragmatic dysfunctions have been reported, including the human immunodeficiency virus, poliovirus, West Nile virus, and dengue virus. Here, we report a case of unilateral diaphragm paralysis in a 34-year-old man with neurosyphilis.
Research on the Effect of Awards and Grants to Improve the Ability of Scientific Research after 2014 in China
Authors: Yuan Qunhua , Zhang Xiaoru
Published: July 2020

The National Graduate Education Comprehensive Fees Policy has been in operation for more than five years since the fall semester of 2014, which is long enough to evaluate the effectiveness of the policy. Base on the existing research results, this paper proposes to adopt the core index of graduate students' scientific research ability—the level and quantity of published papers to evaluate the implementation effect of this policy, take GF University as an example to analyze the construction of the university's award and scholarship system, and make quantitative analysis of the academic graduate students' published papers. It finds that the implementation effect of scholarship system is not obvious. Therefore, this paper analyzes the reasons and puts forward the relevant countermeasures.