bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the Dimensional Accuracy of Casts Obtained from Two Types of Silicone Impression Materials in Different Impression Techniques and Frequent Times of Cast Preparation
Authors: Hafezeqoran Ali , Rahbar Mahdi , Koodaryan Roodabeh , Molaei Tina
Published: September 2021

Introduction. The dimensional accuracy of casts is essential in the quality of fixed prosthesis treatment, whereby the impression method is a very crucial factor affecting it. The aim of this in vitro study is to compare the dimensional accuracy of casts resulting from two types of silicone impression materials in different impression techniques and frequent times of cast preparation. Materials and Methods. A metal model was made from two prepared abutments, and 10 casts were prepared from each material technique (n = 40). The impressions were made by condensation and addition silicone (one-stage and two-stage impressions). The casts were made from same impressions 1 h, 24 h, and 14 days. The diameter, height, and the distance between two dies were recorded. Data were analyzed by repeated measure ANOVA (P value <0.05). Results. The dimensional accuracy of all four materials techniques of impression (diameter, height, and the distance between dies) was the same in different times of impression. Dimensional accuracy of the die diameter and distance between dies in one-stage (Speedex) condensation silicon and one-stage (Panasil) addition silicone did not differ significantly, and their one-stage method developed more accurate casts compared to the two-stage method of the same impression material. The height of the casts prepared from the one-stage method through Speedex and Panasil did not differ significantly from the two-stage method of the same impression material. Conclusion. One-stage condensation silicone and one-stage addition silicone material techniques offered the maximum dimensional accuracy in the obtained casts. The time of impression did not have any significant effect in the accuracy of any of the four impression material techniques.
Resveratrol Attenuates Learning, Memory, and Social Interaction Impairments in Rats Exposed to Arsenic
Authors: Taheri Zadeh Zahra , Esmaeilpour Khadijeh , Aminzadeh Azadeh , Heidari Mahmoud Reza , Joushi Sara
Published: September 2021

Arsenic (As) toxicity has deleterious effects on human health causing disorder in the brain. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible neuroprotective effect of resveratrol (RSV) on arsenic‐induced neurotoxicity in rats. Neurotoxicity in rats was developed by treating As 10 mg/kg/day for 21 days orally. Animals were put into seven groups: control, vehicle, As, As+RSV10, As+RSV20 mg/kg, RSV10, and RSV20 mg/kg. Behavioral assessments such as the social interaction test, novel object recognition test, elevated plus maze, open field, the Morris water maze, in addition to assessment of biomarkers such as ferric reducing ability of plasma assay, glutathione assay, and malondialdehyde assay, were used to evaluate the effects of RSV on cognitive impairment and molecular changes induced by As. The results showed that cognitive performance impaired in As rats. RSV20 mg/kg significantly could ameliorate behavioral changes like spatial learning in days 3 and 4 (p < 0.05), recognition learning and memory (p < 0.01), disabilities in motor coordination and stress (p < 0.05), increased anxiety (p < 0.05), and social interaction deficit (sociability (p < 0.001) and social memory (p < 0.05)). RSV20 mg/kg also attenuated molecular modifications like decreased antioxidant power (p < 0.001), reduced glutathione content (p < 0.05), and increased malondialdehyde level (p < 0.05) induced by As. In addition to oxidative stress assessments, RSV10 mg/kg could significantly increase FRAP (p < 0.01) and GSH (p < 0.05); however, MDA was not significantly increased. Our current behavioral findings suggest that RSV has neuroprotective effects against AS toxicity.
Cancer in People with and without Hepatitis C Virus Infection: Comparison of Risk Before and After Introduction of Direct-Acting Antivirals
Authors: Lam Jennifer O. , Hurley Leo B. , Lai Jennifer B. , Saxena Varun , Seo Suk , Chamberland Scott , Quesenberry Charles P. , Champsi Jamila H. , Ready Joanna , Chiao Elizabeth Y. , Marcus Julia L. , Silverberg Michael J.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of liver cancer. The association of HCV infection with extrahepatic cancers, and the impact of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment on these cancers, is less well known.

Methods:

We conducted a cohort study in a healthcare delivery system. Using electronic health record data from 2007 to 2017, we determined cancer incidence, overall and by type, in people with HCV infection and by DAA treatment status. All analyses included comparisons with a reference population of people without HCV infection. Covariate-adjusted Poisson models were used to estimate incidence rate ratios.

Results:

2,451 people with HCV and 173,548 people without HCV were diagnosed with at least one type of cancer. Compared with people without HCV, those with HCV were at higher risk for liver cancer [adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) = 31.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 28.9–34.0], hematologic cancer (aIRR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.1–1.5), lung cancer (aIRR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.2–1.5), pancreatic cancer (aIRR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.6–2.5), oral/oropharynx cancer (aIRR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.1–1.8), and anal cancer (aIRR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.1–2.4). Compared with people without HCV, the aIRR for liver cancer was 31.9 (95% CI = 27.9–36.4) among DAA-untreated and 21.2 (95% CI = 16.8–26.6) among DAA-treated, and the aIRR for hematologic cancer was 1.5 (95% CI = 1.1–2.0) among DAA-untreated and 0.6 (95% CI = 0.3–1.2) among DAA-treated.

Conclusions:

People with HCV infection were at increased risk of liver cancer, hematologic cancer, and some other extrahepatic cancers. DAA treatment was associated with reduced risk of liver cancers and hematologic cancers.

Impact:

DAA treatment is important for reducing cancer incidence among people with HCV infection.
Higher Activity and Quality of Life Correlates with Swallowing Function in Older Adults with Low Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Ishii Miki , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Yoshimi Kanako , Okumura Takuma , Hasegawa Shohei , Yamaguchi Kohei , Nakane Ayako , Tamai Tomoe , Nagasawa Yuki , Yoshizawa Akira , Tohara Haruka
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship among swallowing function, activity, and quality of life (QOL) in older adults with low activities of daily living (ADL). Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study. In total, 271 Japanese adults aged over 65 years who underwent medical intervention at their residence (male: n = 107; female: n = 164; mean age = 84.6 ± 8.3 years) participated. We collected data regarding age, sex, body mass index (BMI), residence (their house/nursing home), activity status, consciousness level (eye response), history of aspiration pneumonia, other medical history, number of medication types, frequency of going out, and time spent away from bed. We judged consciousness level (eye response) using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), calculated the Charlson comorbidity index, measured QOL using the short version of the Quality of Life Questionnaire for Dementia (short QOL-D), and assessed swallowing function using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). To examine the relationship between scores for the FOIS and the other variables, we used the Spearman rank correlation coefficient and ordinal logistic regression analysis. Results: The FOIS was strongly correlated with BMI (ρ = 0.47), activity status (ρ = −0.60), GCS (ρ = −0.41), time spent away from bed (ρ = 0.56), scores for the short QOL-D (ρ = 0.40), weakly correlated with history of aspiration pneumonia (ρ = −0.27), and frequency of going out (ρ = 0.39). Results for the ordinal logistic regression analysis showed that the FOIS was associated with activity status, frequency of going out, time spent away from bed, and scores for the short QOL-D. Conclusion: The swallowing function of older adults with low ADL was related to their QOL and activities, such as time spent away from bed and home. Thus, in rehabilitation programs for swallowing function in older adults, not only functional but also psychological approaches may prove effective.
Efficacy of Hyperbaric Oxygen on Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Its Correlation with Treatment Course: Prospective Clinical Research
Authors: Huang Chao , Tan Ge , Xiao Jing , Wang Guihua
Published: September 2021

Objectives: This study was conducted to explore the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) in the treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. Methods: 102 patients (105 diseased ears) with ISSNHL were recruited from the Department of Neurology and Otorhinolaryngology, West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, between January 2018 and September 2020. Of them, 45 patients (group A) received intravenous steroid (IVS), and the remaining patients (group B) received IVS and HBO therapy (HBOT). Pure-tone audiometry (PTA) was performed twice at baseline and 10 days after treatment. Patients in group B were subdivided into group 1 (≤10 sessions) and group 2 (>11 sessions) to verify the correlation between the efficacy and course of HBOT, at the follow-up endpoint, the PTA was performed again. The multivariate logistical regression model was used to analyze the related factors of prognosis. Results: Compared with the control group, significantly larger hearing gains and better hearing recovery rate were observed in the IVS + HBOT group (p < 0.05). The time of treatment and course of HBOT were significantly correlated with the hearing threshold after treatment (p < 0.05) and had no significant relationship with tinnitus and age (p > 0.05). Conclusion: HBOT + IVS is an effective method for ISSNHL, especially for the recovery of low-frequency hearing and initial hearing levels of severe and profound. Tinnitus is the most common concomitant symptom of ISSNHL, and prolonging the course of HBOT did not significantly improve it. Initiating HBOT within 7 days for 10–25 sessions of treatment was more beneficial.
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety between Conbercept and Ranibizumab in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Wang Xue , Yu Chaofeng , Yang Jiasong , Liu Yuzhen , Xu Yali , Li Wensheng
Published: September 2021

Background: Conbercept, as a novel vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, was approved for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in China. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety between conbercept and ranibizumab in patients with nAMD. Methods: Several databases (PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WANFANG) were searched for the results of studies describing conbercept and ranibizumab for the treatment of nAMD. Sixteen randomized controlled trials including 1,224 eyes met our search criteria and were assessed. Results: Conbercept and ranibizumab had comparable effects on improving visual acuity at 3 months (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −0.19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.46 to 0.08; p = 0.17) and 6–12 months (SMD: −0.01; 95% CI: −0.20 to 0.18; p = 0.90). At 3 months and 6–12 months, the differences in the change of central macular thickness in conbercept and ranibizumab groups were 1.06 μm (95% CI: −3.52 to 5.64; p = 0.65) and −0.12 μm (95% CI: −9.26 to 9.02; p = 0.98). In the short term, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups with respect to ocular adverse events (odds ratio [OR]: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.46–1.61; p = 0.63). No significant differences were observed in the recovery rate of choroidal neovascularization leakage between conbercept and ranibizumab at both 3 months (OR: 1.49; 95% CI: 0.83–2.68; p = 0.18) and 6–12 months (OR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.18–2.43; p = 0.53). There were significant differences between conbercept and ranibizumab in terms of decreasing intraocular pressure (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −1.74; 95% CI: −2.28 to −1.20; p < 0.00001), the plasma VEGF level (WMD: −21.49; 95% CI: −26.28 to −16.70; p < 0.00001), and the C-reactive protein level (WMD: −1.16; 95% CI: −1.45 to −0.87; p < 0.00001) in the short term. Conclusion: Conbercept was similar to ranibizumab in terms of efficacy and safety for the treatment of nAMD in China. Further studies with longer term observation are needed to support this conclusion.
O verde da cidade verde
Authors: Yonegura Valéria Borges , Endlich Angela Maria
Published: September 2021

O artigo toma como ponto de partida a arborização de Maringá e uma problematização acerca da qualidade e cuidados necessários, em contraposição ao intenso marketing que se faz do verde como marca da cidade. Traçamos alguns objetivos de âmbito mais geral quanto ao tema da arborização e na perspectiva do recorte territorial que inspirou o presente trabalho. Nesse sentido, abordamos a relevância da arborização, e em âmbito mais específico, problematizamos como o aclamado verde vem sendo tratado, em uma cidade que busca constante identificação com sua arborização. A análise baseou-se no processo histórico da arborização da cidade em contraposição com o atual, incluindo imagens, documentos e dados secundários, além da interlocução com trabalhos anteriores que abordam o tema em Maringá e de modo geral. O artigo sublinha que é preciso uma gestão adequada, construindo e consolidando vínculos de identidade da população com a arborização urbana.
Identification of larvae of two Aphodius Helwig, 1798 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae) species using morphology and DNA barcode
Authors: FROLOV ANDREY V. , VISHNEVSKAYA MARIA S. , AKHMETOVA LILIA A.
Published: September 2021

The third instar larvae of Aphodius (Alocoderus) hydrochaeris (Fabricius, 1798) and A. (Bodilus) ictericus (Laicharting, 1781) are described based on scanning electron microscopy and COI sequences. COI barcode sequence for A. (A.) hydrohaeris is provided for the first time. Two haplotypes are discovered in A. (B.) ictericus.
Diagnosing CO2 emission-induced feedbacks between the Southern Ocean carbon cycle and the climate system: A multiple Earth System Model analysis using a water mass tracking approach
Authors: Roy Tilla , Sallée Jean Baptiste , Bopp Laurent , Metzl Nicolas
Published: September 2021

Anthropogenic CO2emission-induced feedbacks between the carbon cycle and the climate system perturb the efficiency of atmospheric CO2uptake by land and ocean carbon reservoirs. The Southern Ocean is a region where these feedbacks can be largest and differ most among Earth System Model projections of 21stcentury climate change. To improve our mechanistic understanding of these feedbacks, we develop an automated procedure that tracks changes in the positions of Southern Ocean water masses and their carbon uptake. In an idealised ensemble of climate change projections, we diagnose two carbon–concentration feedbacks driven by atmospheric CO2(due to increasing air-sea CO2partial pressure difference,dpCO2, and reducing carbonate buffering capacity) and two carbon–climate feedbacks driven by climate change (due to changes in the water mass surface outcrop areas and local climate impacts). Collectively these feedbacks increase the CO2uptake by the Southern Ocean and account for one-fifth of the global uptake of CO2emissions. The increase in CO2uptake is primarily dpCO2-driven, with Antarctic intermediate waters making the largest contribution; the remaining three feedbacks partially offset this increase (by ~25%), with maximum reductions in Subantarctic mode waters. The process dominating the decrease in CO2uptake is water mass-dependent: reduction in carbonate buffering capacity in Subtropical and Subantarctic mode waters, local climate impacts in Antarctic intermediate waters, and reduction in outcrop areas in circumpolar deep waters and Antarctic bottom waters. Intermodel variability in the feedbacks is predominatelydpCO2–driven and should be a focus of efforts to constrain projection uncertainty.
The Vodafone/Sky Decision and Vertical Mergers in New Zealand
Authors: Scott Paul
Published: September 2021

As Professor Ahdar’s text shows, New Zealand’s competition law has undergone an evolution. Views on various practices have changed and this led to academic disagreements. One area, however, has been free from any controversy and that is vertical mergers. The reason is not uniformity of philosophy—but rather more prosaic. New Zealand has not had any cases. This changed with the Vodafone/Sky merger. This article discusses the Commerce Commission’s decision to decline the merger and how it is in line with current thinking on vertical mergers.
Distinguishing Resonant from Non-Resonant Nonlinear Optical Processes Using Intensity–Intensity Correlation Analyses
Authors: Nagpal Supriya , Semon Bryan , Ariunbold Gombojav O.
Published: September 2021

Three-color coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) represents non-degenerate four wave mixing that includes both non-resonant and resonant processes, the contributions of which depend upon how the molecular vibrational modes are being excited by the input laser pulses. The scattering signal due to resonant processes builds up progressively. An advanced analytical tool to reveal this deferred resonant signal buildup phenomenon is in need. In this work, we adapt a quantitative analytical tool by introducing one-dimensional and two-dimensional intensity–intensity correlation functions in terms of a new variable (probe pulse delay) and a new perturbation parameter (probe pulse linewidth). In particular, discrete diagonal directional sums are defined here as a tool to reduce both synchronous and asynchronous two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS) maps down to one-dimensional plots while maintaining the valuable analytical information. Detailed analyses using the all-Gaussian coherent Raman scattering closed-form solutions and the representative experimental data for resonant and non-resonant processes are presented and compared. The present work holds a promising potential for industrial application, e.g., by extractive industries to distinguish hydrocarbons (chemically resonant substance) from water (non-resonant contaminant) by utilizing the one- and two-dimensional correlation analyses.
Social and Spatial Governance: The History of Enclosed Neighborhoods in Urban China
Authors: Li Mengbi , Xie Jing
Published: September 2021

COVID-19 calls for a new understanding of urban landscape and associated living. As an emerging topic, lockdown urbanism involves an unpredictable future where lockdown or quarantine may be a come and go new normal for everyday practice, but the topic itself seems to have escaped historical inquiry. This paper attempts to answer why the strict lockdown is suitable for China by revealing a long and complex history of urbanization and its social and administrative organization. The urban fabric is characterized by a system of urban patterns: enclosed communities, the spatial layout and service distribution of the neighborhood, and the formation of the center. It was also animated by daily ritualistic practices, such as the control of time, quotidian lockdown practice (yejin), and individual ties within the enclosed neighborhood. This paper contributes to a better understanding of the deep history of urban form and the order and logic behind lockdown urbanism.
Control synthesis for multiple mobile robot systems
Authors: Roszkowska Elzbieta , Jakubiak Janusz
Published: September 2021

This work continues our study on the control synthesis for multiple mobile robot systems (MMRS). We assume a hybrid approach that comprises the supervisory control level, based on a discrete event model of MMRS, and the robot control level, based on a continuous time model of the robot motion. Our objective is to further develop the control concept towards its implementation in a real-world application – a testbed for a fleet of six laboratory robots. In the first part of the paper, we develop a methodology of the supervisory control synthesis, that employs the Petri net formalism and formally ensures the required logics of MMRS operation, as well as propose a relevant architecture of the supervisor. The second part is focused on the low-level robot control and control procedures enabling modification of the robot motion according to the supervisor’s decisions. A simulation case is presented that illustrates the operation of the system.
Behavioral Correlates of Depression Among Adults with Visual Impairments
Authors: Haegele Justin A. , Zhu Xihe , Healy Sean
Published: September 2021

Introduction: This study sought to examine: (a) the associations between physical activity, sedentary time, and sleep duration, as discrete behaviors, with depression among adults with visual impairments; and (b) the impact of meeting none, one, two, or three of the guidelines for these behaviors on depression among adults with visual impairments. Materials: One hundred eighty-two ( Mage = 44.8) adults with visual impairments, recruited via email through two visual impairment organizations in the United States, completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire–Short Form, a sleep duration question, the Major Depression Inventory, and a demographic questionnaire. Based on results from the questionnaires, dichotomous variables for meeting or not meeting physical activity, sleep, and sitting guidelines were created. Data were analyzed using three components: a descriptive analysis, Pearson product-moment correlation analyses, and hierarchical regression analyses. Results: Overall, 14.8% of participants were categorized as having some degree of depression. Meeting the sleep guideline was a significant negative predictor of depression scores in the hierarchical regression analyses. The number of guidelines met was a negative predictor for depression score controlling for other variables. Discussion: Adequate sleep, as well as meeting all three guidelines synergistically, was meaningful in influencing depression among this population. The current study’s results should prompt the continued examination of health-behaviors among adults with visual impairment using a more holistic 24-hour activity cycle framework. Implications for practitioners: This study supports the utilization of multi-behavioral interventions to reduce the risk of depression by enhancing physical activity and sleep, while reducing sitting time, among this population.
Rate of COVID‐19 Infection in Patients Following Otolaryngology vs Non‐otolaryngology Outpatient Encounters
Authors: Workman Alan D. , Varvares Mark A. , Bhattacharyya Neil
Published: September 2021

Routine outpatient otolaryngology visits have been identified as potential vectors for increased transmission of COVID‐19 relative to other medical encounters. This is in part due to the inability of patients to mask during comprehensive otolaryngology examination and potential propensity for aerosolization during upper airway procedures, including endoscopy and nasopharyngoscopy. Using a matched‐cohort sampling of >20,000 patients seen between April 2020 and January 2021, we found no increased rate of postvisit COVID‐19 positivity following an in‐office otolaryngology encounter relative to other non‐otolaryngology outpatient encounters. This suggests that the perceived elevated risk of provider‐to‐patient and patient‐to‐patient transmission during outpatient otolaryngologic care may be unfounded.
Outcome of Impella 2.5 use in patients undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Henan, China: a case series
Authors: Bhat Rafiq Ahmed , Ali Syed Manzoor , Rathi Akanksha , Bhat Javaid Akhter , Iqbal Raja Saqib , Islam Md Monowarul , Maqbool Syed , Tibrewal Abhishek , Qu Yongsheng , Zhang You , Sun Yuxiao , Xiao Wentao , Gao Chuanyu
Published: September 2021

Background:

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) or heart failure is associated with an unacceptably high in-hospital mortality of 33%–55% and a lost chance to accept PCI (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention).

Aim:

The aim of the study was to find out whether percutaneous hemodynamic support device Impella 2.5 improves prognosis of high-risk PCI patients or not.

Methods:

This study was a case series involving six patients who underwent a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD, Impella 2.5, Abiomed, Danvers, MA) implantation after suffering from AMI with a very low ejection fraction and acute heart failure. The clinical experience and outcomes of the patients are hereby discussed.

Results:

All PCI procedures were safely completed under LVAD support. The hemodynamic parameters of all patients improved clinically over the next 30 days and following 12 months after Impella insertion except in two patients, of which one patient (Case number 6) died 4 days post-Impella protected PCI procedure due to acute left ventricle heart failure with cardiogenic shock and pulmonary oedema; and another one died at 12 months after Impella protected PCI procedure (Case number 4) due to decompensated heart failure and infected pneumonia.

Conclusion:

Percutaneous hemodynamic support is favorable and feasible during high risk Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). A bigger study is needed to substantiate the claims of the current study.
Developing and Piloting a Computerized Adaptive Test for a Culturally Appropriate Measure of Adaptive Behavior
Authors: Chen Mo , Nah Yong-Hwee , Waschl Nicolette , Poon Kenneth , Chen Ping
Published: September 2021

Culturally bounded in nature, adaptive behavior is the degree to which a person meets the requirements of personal independence and social responsibilities. This study aimed to develop a computerized adaptive test (CAT) of a culturally appropriate adaptive behavior measure (i.e., the Activities and Participation Rating Scale [APRS]) in the Singapore context for children aged 7 to 12 years, that is, the CAT-APRS-Primary. In Study 1, an item bank consisting of 310 adaptive skills was developed and piloted among 56 caregivers. In Study 2, the refined 310 items were calibrated using Rasch analysis among 352 caregivers. After the removal of five poor items based on the Rasch analysis, the finalized 305 items were used for the CAT development, with these items showing good Rasch person and item fit statistics. Preliminary utility of the CAT-APRS-Primary was established, with participants completing 24 items on average. Limitations and implications for future research were discussed.
Providing Breastfeeding Support During COVID-19: A Survey of Staff Experiences
Authors: Hoying Rachel , Badreldin Nevert , Shah Malika D. , Bolden Janelle R. , Cummings Peter , Robinson Daniel T.
Published: September 2021

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges to maternity settings. Its influence on providing in-hospital lactation support has not been well described.

Research Aim:

To describe the experiences of healthcare workers as they provided in-hospital lactation support during the pandemic.

Methods:

A prospective, cross-sectional, online survey evaluated healthcare providers working with postpartum women and newborns affected by COVID-19 at an academic center during March–June 2020. Providers were queried regarding the influence of COVID-19 and COVID-19-specific policies on providing lactation support. Questions assessed guidance received, perceived stress, difficulty providing care, and solicited qualitative responses. The constant comparative method was used to analyze qualitative data.

Results:

Of 108 providers, 70 (65%) completed the survey. Of 57 providing direct lactation support to women affected by COVID-19, most ( n = 39, 67%) reported increased stress. Participants reported lower stress scores when receiving guidance through shift meetings or email compared to those not receiving this guidance [stress score with shift meeting guidance ( M [ SD]): 3.10 (0.88); score without guidance: 3.83 (0.66); n = 39, p = .009; score with email guidance: 3.79 (0.58); score without guidance: 4.50 (0.58); n = 18, p = .045). Qualitative responses ( n = 67; 96%) identified three themes: visitor restrictions allowed less distraction during lactation support; physical separation disrupted maternal/infant bonding; workflow challenges resulted from policy changes and supply access.

Conclusions:

Most participating staff providing lactation support to participants affected by COVID-19 reported increased stress. Ensuring written or verbal guidance may reduce staff’s experiences of stress. Efforts to optimize lactation support during COVID-19 should consider reducing distractions, physical separation, and logistic challenges.
Human Milk Microbiome of Healthy Indian Mothers is Dominated by Genus Pseudomonas
Authors: Dutta Sourabh , Das Bhabatosh , Ghosh Tarini Shankar , Kumar Shakti , Kaushal Raj Kumari , Ray Pallab , Suri Vanita , Nair Gopinath Balakrish
Published: September 2021

Background:

The composition of the human milk microbiome is highly variable and multifactorial. Milk microbiota from various countries show striking differences. There is a paucity of data from healthy lactating Indian mothers.

Research Aim:

To describe the milk microbiota of healthy North Indian women, using a culture-independent, targeted metagenomic approach.

Methods:

We recruited exclusively breastfeeding mothers ( N = 22) who had vaginally delivered full-term singleton infants in a tertiary care hospital less than 1 week previously and had not recently consumed systemic antibiotics. Milk samples (5 ml) were collected aseptically, and microbial deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted. Microbial composition and diversity were determined using a 454-pyrosequencing platform. Core genera were identified, and their relative abundances ranked. Heatmaps showing the variation of the ranked abundances and Shannon index were obtained using R.

Results:

Participants (all exclusively vegetarian) had a mean ( SD) age of 27.2 (3.4) years, postnatal age of 3.9 (1.6) days and gestation 38 (1.2) weeks. The dominant phylum was Proteobacterium (relative abundance 84%) and dominant genus Pseudomonas (relative abundance 61.78%). Eleven species of Pseudomonas were identified, all generally considered nonpathogenic. Based on abundance patterns of the core genera, the milk samples could be grouped: (a) dominated by Pseudomonas with low diversity; (b) less Pseudomonas and high diversity; and (c) dominated by Pseudomonas but high diversity. All neonates were healthy and gaining weight well at 1 month of age.

Conclusions:

Healthy, lactating, vegetarian, North Indian women who deliver at term gestation and have no recent exposure to antibiotics, have a unique milk microbiome dominated by Pseudomonas.
Unearthing a provincial medical school and its students – A history of the 1834 ‘School of Practical Medicine and Surgery’ at the Sussex County Hospital, Brighton, England
Authors: Whiston Benjamin , Cooper Maxwell J
Published: September 2021

The 19th century was a period of rapid change in English medical education. Little is known about the important contribution of smaller, hospital-based, provincial medical schools which sprang up to provide important practical training opportunities for students, typically as a foundation for further training and examination in London. One such example is the 1834 Brighton ‘School of Practical Medicine and Surgery’, which was based at the Sussex County Hospital and recognised by the Royal College of Surgeons and Worshipful Society of Apothecaries. Unlike many other 19th century medical schools, the history of the Brighton school is largely undocumented. Although it remained dependent upon London through the ‘College and Hall’ examination system, this article shows that the school's pragmatic and adaptive educational approach allowed it to play an important role in educating future doctors in Brighton from 1834 into at least the early 20th century.
Slowed-Down Rehabilitation Following Percutaneous Repair of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Authors: Maffulli Nicola , Gougoulias Nikolaos , Maffulli Gayle D. , Oliva Francesco , Migliorini Filippo
Published: September 2021

Background:

Following percutaneous repair of acute Achilles tendon (AT) ruptures, early postoperative weightbearing is advocated; however, it is debatable how aggressive rehabilitation should be. We compared the clinical and functional outcomes in 2 groups of patients who followed either our “traditional” or a “slowed down” rehabilitation after percutaneous surgical repair.

Methods:

Sixty patients were prospectively recruited to a slowed down (29 patients) or a traditional (31 patients) rehabilitation program. Both groups were allowed immediate weightbearing postoperatively; a removable brace with 5 heel wedges was applied at 2 weeks. In the slowed-down group, 1 wedge was removed after 4 weeks. Gradual removal of the boot took place after 4 wedges were kept for 4 weeks. In the traditional group, 1 wedge was removed every 2 weeks, with removal of the boot after 2 wedges had been kept for 2 weeks. The AT Resting Angle (ATRA) evaluated tendon elongation. Patient reported functional outcomes were assessed using the AT Rupture Score (ATRS). Calf circumference difference and the isometric plantarflexion strength of the gastro-soleus complex were evaluated.

Results:

At the 12-month follow-up, both ATRA and ATRS were more favorable in the slowed-down group. The isometric strength and the calf circumference were more similar to the contralateral leg in the slowed-down group than in the traditional one.

Conclusion:

Following percutaneous repair of acute Achilles tendon patients undergoing slowed down rehabilitation performed better than the traditional one. These conclusions must be considered within the limitations of the present study.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective comparative study.
COVID-19 in Immunocompromised Cancer Patients: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Patel Raj H. , Vanaparthy Rachana , Greene John N.
Published: September 2021

The global pandemic of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has presented newfound challenges to the oncology community regarding management of disease progression in immunocompromised and cancer patients. Further, the large influx of COVID-19 patients has overwhelmed healthcare facilities, limited access to intensive care unit beds and ventilators, and canceled elective surgeries causing disruptions to the cancer care continuum and re-organization of oncological care. While it is known that the potential threat of infection is greatest in elderly patients (>60 years of age) and patients with underlying comorbidities, there is still insufficient data to determine the risk of COVID-19 in cancer patients. Given the immunosuppressive status in cancer patients arising from chemotherapy and other comorbidities, management of COVID-19 in this patient population carries a unique set of challenges. We report three cases of COVID-19 in immunocompromised cancer patients and discuss the challenges in preventing, diagnosing, and treating this vulnerable group.
Co-design Center for Exascale Machine Learning Technologies (ExaLearn)
Authors: Alexander Francis J , Ang James , Bilbrey Jenna A , Balewski Jan , Casey Tiernan , Chard Ryan , Choi Jong , Choudhury Sutanay , Debusschere Bert , DeGennaro Anthony M , Dryden Nikoli , Ellis J Austin , Foster Ian , Cardona Cristina Garcia , Ghosh Sayan , Harrington Peter , Huang Yunzhi , Jha Shantenu , Johnston Travis , Kagawa Ai , Kannan Ramakrishnan , Kumar Neeraj , Liu Zhengchun , Maruyama Naoya , Matsuoka Satoshi , McCarthy Erin , Mohd-Yusof Jamaludin , Nugent Peter , Oyama Yosuke , Proffen Thomas , Pugmire David , Rajamanickam Sivasankaran , Ramakrishniah Vinay , Schram Malachi , Seal Sudip K , Sivaraman Ganesh , Sweeney Christine , Tan Li , Thakur Rajeev , Van Essen Brian , Ward Logan , Welch Paul , Wolf Michael , Xantheas Sotiris S , Yager Kevin G , Yoo Shinjae , Yoon Byung-Jun
Published: September 2021

Rapid growth in data, computational methods, and computing power is driving a remarkable revolution in what variously is termed machine learning (ML), statistical learning, computational learning, and artificial intelligence. In addition to highly visible successes in machine-based natural language translation, playing the game Go, and self-driving cars, these new technologies also have profound implications for computational and experimental science and engineering, as well as for the exascale computing systems that the Department of Energy (DOE) is developing to support those disciplines. Not only do these learning technologies open up exciting opportunities for scientific discovery on exascale systems, they also appear poised to have important implications for the design and use of exascale computers themselves, including high-performance computing (HPC) for ML and ML for HPC. The overarching goal of the ExaLearn co-design project is to provide exascale ML software for use by Exascale Computing Project (ECP) applications, other ECP co-design centers, and DOE experimental facilities and leadership class computing facilities.
Experiences and Perspectives From Women Taking Investigational Therapy for Hepatitis C Virus During Pregnancy
Authors: Kislovskiy Yasaswi , Chappell Catherine , Flaherty Emily , Hamm Megan E , Cameron Flor de Abril , Krans Elizabeth E , Chang Judy C
Published: September 2021

Objective:

Describe the experiences and perspectives among pregnant people with chronic HCV infection receiving ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) therapy during pregnancy.

Methods:

We conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews within an open-label, phase 1 study of LDV/SOF therapy among pregnant people with chronic HCV infection. Participants took 12 weeks of LDV/SOF and were interviewed at enrollment and again at the end of treatment. We transcribed the interviews verbatim and coded them with NVivo software for subsequent inductive thematic analysis.

Results:

Nine pregnant people completed the study, leading to 18 interview transcripts. All participants identified as women. Eight women acquired HCV through injection drug use, and 1 through perinatal transmission. We identified 3 themes. (1) Treatment for HCV during pregnancy with LDV/SOF was tolerable and convenient. (2) Women described that taking investigational LDV/SOF increased their self-esteem and sense of well-being due to possible cure from HCV, and they felt that the experience of working hard to achieve cure may potentially prevent return to drug abuse in the future. (3) Women appreciated researchers and providers that gave non-judgmental care and communicated honestly, and preferred person-centered care that acknowledges women’s individual needs.

Conclusions:

Women stated that cure from HCV would be “life-changing,” and described antepartum treatment for HCV with LDV/SOF as tolerable and desired, when provided by non-judgmental providers. Antepartum treatment was found to be acceptable by study participants and should be further evaluated to combat the increasing HCV epidemic among young persons, including pregnant people.
Pandemic fitness assemblages: The sociomaterialities and affective dimensions of exercising at home during the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Clark Marianne , Lupton Deborah
Published: September 2021

The implementation of physical distancing measures and lockdowns across the globe to control the spread of COVID-19 has led to the home becoming a focal point of exercise and fitness activities for many people. A plethora of digital tools were hastily assembled to help people workout at home or in spaces close to home: including apps with workout suggestions, online videos and livestreamed fitness classes. In this article, we draw on our empirical material collected through semi-structured interviews and virtual ethnographic home tours with Australian adults to explore the ‘pandemic fitness assemblages’ generated with and through their improvised pandemic fitness practices inside and outside their homes. These materials illustrate how bodies, digital and non-digital technologies, and place and space came together and help to surface the affects, sensations and embodiments that emerged. We describe how people’s re-imagined fitness practices contributed to daily routines, transformed the atmospheres of the home and yielded affective experiences of escape. To do so, we think with sociospatial and feminist materialism theoretical frameworks that emphasise the generative relationships emerging between human and more-than-human forces and entities. Our analysis further illuminates the situatedness and relationality of these heterogeneous forces and considers how they come to matter within the broader sociomaterial context of COVID-19.
The Unbearable Precarity of Pursuing Freedom: A Critical Overview of the Spanish sí soy autónomo Movement
Authors: Vieira Tiago
Published: September 2021

Throughout 2020, the Spanish Government initiated the process of regulating all activities related to platform work with the purpose of ‘chasing the fraud of bogus self-employment’ (PSOE and Unidas Podemos, 2020). Somewhat surprisingly, this initiative was met by a substantial wave of protest from the workers who the government proclaimed to be attempting to protect. In this light, the present research explores the arguments of the Spanish sí soy autónomo (yes I am self-employed) movement in its struggle against the Spanish Government. Drawing from a critical discourse analysis of semi-structured interviews to couriers of Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Glovo, as well as to a representative of an association in favour of the preservation of the self-employed status (N = 20), the main finding is that the pursuit of self-employment status is primarily informed by workers’ attempt to escape the precarious working conditions offered to wage-earners in the Spanish labour market as a whole, rather than by an empirically grounded claim. This suggests that new labour legislation addressing the challenges posed by platform work must not overlook the broader context in which it is intended to unfold – otherwise, it may not only fail to improve the workers’ situation, but also drive them to demand what are, actually, further deregulated legal arrangements. As such, this article’s main contribution to the sociological knowledge consists of pointing out that platform work, specificities notwithstanding, cannot be seen as detached from the broader Work landscape.
Men’s Explanations for Being Childless; a dynamic perspective
Authors: Maříková Hana
Published: September 2021

Research on childlessness in contemporary society still focuses mainly on women. This article conversely examines childlessness among men in Czechia – a European post-socialist country in which becoming a parent was a strong social norm before 1989. This article asks how men’s explanations for being childless or childfree change over time and what this says about changing norms attached to parenthood in different historical and social contexts. It draws on an analysis of 24 problem-centred interviews conducted in two rounds about a decade apart on the same sample of child-less or free men. This approach is not usually applied in research on this subject. In the first interviews, the men’s narratives mainly reveal their different views on the impact the post-1989 social transformation had on their lives in relation to their perceived resources and life chances. The follow-up interviews show how the men’s views on their lives change with age, the different emphasis they place on free choice versus the effect of external factors over time, and the narrow line that they construct between ‘involuntary’ and ‘voluntary’ childlessness. The narratives of child-less or free men unveil that the norm of becoming a parent is growing weaker in Czech society, but age norms and the norms regarding pathways to parenthood are still strong. The article seeks to understand how Czech men construct their childlessness over time, thus contributing to the discussion of childlessness among men and filling the gap in knowledge on men’s childlessness in CEE.
The influence of in-cylinder flows and bulk gas density on early Spray G injection in an optical research engine
Authors: Welch Cooper , Schmidt Marius , Geschwindner Christopher , Wu Shengqi , Wooldridge Margaret S , Böhm Benjamin
Published: September 2021

A well-characterized multi-hole gasoline injector, the Engine Combustion Network’s (ECN) Spray G injector, was investigated in an optically accessible research engine under four motored operating conditions with early injection. The experiments were conducted at intake pressures of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], nearly matching the ECN’s standard early injection operating conditions, Spray G2 (flash boiling) and Spray G3 (early injection), respectively. This was combined with two engine speeds at [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Using particle image velocimetry and volumetric Mie scatter imaging, the in-cylinder flows were evaluated and the effects on the spray morphology were characterized. The in-cylinder flow was evaluated to understand the spray-flow interaction, including the turbulent kinetic energy. Little effect on turbulent energy was observed in the region examined near the exit of the fuel injector nozzle shortly after injection. Mie scatter imaging was used to characterize the spray morphology and wall wetting was clearly visible on the spark plug. Cyclic variability of the sprays was found to be insignificant; and major differences in spray morphology are attributed to the in-cylinder velocity and intake pressure at the time of injection. Decreasing the bulk gas density by decreasing the intake pressure had a number of effects on the evolution of the spray including faster evaporation, increased axial liquid penetration, and decreased spray angle. Increasing the in-cylinder flow magnitudes by increasing the engine speed had a similar effect on spray morphology by also increasing the evaporation rate, increasing the axial penetration, and decreasing the spray opening angle. Comparison of the motored spray cases with a no-flow case (when the fuel is sprayed into the engine without the piston present) further illustrated the extent to which the intake flow influenced the spray shape.
Damage detection and characterization of a scaled model steel truss bridge using combined complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise and multiple signal classification approach
Authors: Mousavi Asma A , Zhang Chunwei , Masri Sami F , Gholipour Gholamreza
Published: September 2021

This study aims to investigate the performance of a new damage detection method proposed based on the combination of two signal processing techniques which are complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise and multiple signal classification (CEEMDAN-MUSIC). The proposed damage detection approach begins with determining the power density spectrum, namely, the pseudospectrum, from the acceleration response of a structure. Then, the CEEMDAN algorithm is used to decompose the vibration signal into a set of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Furthermore, the MUSIC algorithm is applied to the first IMF of the processed signal to determine the frequency pseudospectrum, prior to and post the damage states of the structure. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is experimentally validated using a laboratory-scale model of a steel truss bridge exposed to a white noise excitation. The damage states of the truss bridge are implemented by replacing a specified diagonal element with reduced cross-sectional stiffness. The experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the CEEMDAN-MUSIC method in comparison with the performance of pure MUSIC and traditional frequency domain techniques. The advantages of the proposed technique are also discussed in terms of identifying the presence of the damage, addressing its location, and quantifying the damage levels which are summarized as the damage detection and characterization.