bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational attainment by children with parental alcohol problems in Denmark and Finland
Authors: Raitasalo Kirsimarja , Østergaard Jeanette , Andrade Stefan Bastholm
Published: November 2020

Background:

Adverse childhood experiences have negative outcomes for children, yet previous research suggests the independent effect of parental alcohol problems is inconsistent.

Objectives:

Our aim was (1) to compare educational attainment among Danish and Finnish youth with parental alcohol problems and (2) to study the associations between parental alcohol problems and children’s educational attainment in these two Nordic welfare states.

Data and methods:

Administrative longitudinal data on children born in 1991 in Finland ( n = 64,696) and Denmark ( n = 64,138) and their biological parents. The children were followed until their 21st birthdays. We applied a mediation analysis to investigate how the association between parental alcohol problems and children’s educational attainment is mediated by four indicators for poor socioeconomic family background (low parental education, long-term economic distress, psychiatric disorders, and living in a non-intact family).

Results:

At age 20 years, Finnish children were more likely to complete their education than their Danish peers. Young adults with parental alcohol problems faced early school leaving more frequently in both countries compared with their peers, but the relative risk was higher in Finland. In both countries, long-term economic distress mediated the highest proportion of the effect of alcohol problems (39% in Denmark and 34% in Finland). Low parental education and psychiatric disorders mediated part of the effect, but not to the same degree as economic distress.

Conclusions:

Ensuring education for children with parental alcohol problems is a key to improving their long-term outcomes in different life domains. Consequently, healthcare, social work and education sectors should prioritise advancing education among these children in order to prevent their exclusion from education and labour markets, and they should cooperate closely in doing so.
Sense of Purpose and Progress Towards Degree in Freshman College Students
Authors: Yukhymenko-Lescroart Mariya A. , Sharma Gitima
Published: November 2020

This study examined whether first-time full-time freshman students’ sense of purpose predicted their progress towards a degree. Freshman students ( N = 421, 62.2% females) completed self-report measures of sense of purpose and academic commitments within the first month of starting college; a year later, the data on first-year progress towards a degree were matched with their responses. Structural equation modeling showed that while a sense of purpose did not directly predict progress towards a degree, awakening to purpose and altruistic purpose both had indirect positive effects on first-year GPA, academic standing, and retention through degree commitment. Additionally, altruistic purpose had indirect positive effects on first-year GPA through academic identity. The findings highlight that a sense of purpose may play an important role in persistence and attainment of a degree among college students.
You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling: How Gender Shapes Affective Polarization
Authors: Ondercin Heather Louise , Lizotte Mary Kate
Published: November 2020

We examine variation in levels of affective polarization for men and women. Using the 1980 to 2016 American National Election Studies, we find that women are more affectively polarized than men. The effect of sex partially works indirectly through political identities and issue positions. Moreover, sex acts as a moderator, with political identities and issues positions have different effects on men’s and women’s level of affective polarization. Three factors create women’s higher levels of affective polarization: women are more likely to be partisans, strength in abortion attitudes, and partisanship has a more substantial influence on women’s attitudes compared to men’s attitudes. Breaking the analysis apart into three time periods: (1) gender gap emergence 1980 to 1988, (2) elite polarization 1990 to 1998, and (3) hyper-partisanship 2000 to 2016 reinforces that partisan strength is central to understanding affective polarization. Additionally, during the 1990s when elite polarization is intensifying the strength of issue attitudes and ideology.
Blockade of OGFr delays the onset and reduces the severity of diabetic ocular surface complications
Authors: Zagon Ian S , Sassani Joseph W , Purushothaman Indira , McLaughlin Patricia J
Published: November 2020

The opioid growth factor (OGF)–OGF receptor (OGFr) pathway is present in the ocular surface and functions to maintain homeostasis of the epithelium. The OGF–OGFr pathway has been reported to be dysregulated in diabetic individuals and animal models, and is reflected in elevations of the inhibitory growth factor, OGF, chemically termed [Met5]-enkephalin. Recently, our laboratory reported elevated levels of OGF and OGFr in the serum and corneal epithelium of type 1 diabetic rats, suggesting that dysregulation of the OGF–OGFr axis may lead to dry eye, abnormal corneal surface sensitivity, and delayed re-epithelialization. Blockade of OGF–OGFr pathway using naltrexone, a potent opioid receptor antagonist, reverses dry eye symptoms and restores corneal surface sensitivity in diabetic rats when used as a therapy. Based on the evidence that both OGF and OGFr are elevated in type 1 diabetic rats, this study examined whether systemic or topical naltrexone treatment initiated at the time of induction of hyperglycemia could protect against the development of diabetic ocular surface complications. Diabetic male Sprague-Dawley rats treated systemically or topically with naltrexone had a delayed onset of dry eye and altered corneal surface sensitivity, and an improved healing rate for corneal wounds, that were comparable to non-diabetic rats. Serum levels of OGF were normal for rats receiving systemic naltrexone, and OGF tissue levels were normal for type 1 diabetic rats receiving twice daily naltrexone drops. OGFr levels remained elevated. These data support the role of the OGF–OGFr axis in regulation of ocular surface complications, and suggest that naltrexone therapy may be beneficial for pre-diabetic and early diabetic individuals.
Quantitative EEG Analysis in Angelman Syndrome: Candidate Method for Assessing Therapeutics
Authors: Martinez Luis A. , Born Heather A. , Harris Sarah , Regnier-Golanov Angelique , Grieco Joseph C. , Weeber Edwin J. , Anderson Anne E.
Published: November 2020

The goal of these studies was to use quantitative (q)EEG techniques on data from children with Angelman syndrome (AS) using spectral power analysis, and to evaluate this as a potential biomarker and quantitative method to evaluate therapeutics. Although characteristic patterns are evident in visual inspection, using qEEG techniques has the potential to provide quantitative evidence of treatment efficacy. We first assessed spectral power from baseline EEG recordings collected from children with AS compared to age-matched neurotypical controls, which corroborated the previously reported finding of increased total power driven by elevated delta power in children with AS. We then retrospectively analyzed data collected during a clinical trial evaluating the safety and tolerability of minocycline (3 mg/kg/d) to compare pretreatment recordings from children with AS (4-12 years of age) to EEG activity at the end of treatment and following washout for EEG spectral power and epileptiform events. At baseline and during minocycline treatment, the AS subjects demonstrated increased delta power; however, following washout from minocycline treatment the AS subjects had significantly reduced EEG spectral power and epileptiform activity. Our findings support the use of qEEG analysis in evaluating AS and suggest that this technique may be useful to evaluate therapeutic efficacy in AS. Normalizing EEG power in AS therefore may become an important metric in screening therapeutics to gauge overall efficacy. As therapeutics transition from preclinical to clinical studies, it is vital to establish outcome measures that can quantitatively evaluate putative treatments for AS and neurological disorders with distinctive EEG patterns.
A novel approach for banana (Musa) Pseudo-stem fibre grading Method: Extracted fibres from Sri Lankan Banana Cultivars
Authors: Balakrishnan Subashini , Wickramasinghe GL Dharmasri , Wijayapala UG Samudrika
Published: November 2020

Fibre grading systems are recognized as essential for both customers and the manufacturers of natural fibres. Identification or grading of fibre content in textiles and fibre industry has become extremely challenging even for experienced parties in the field. The increasing variety of fibres and blending techniques are the reason for this. Consequently, laboratory tests are very important for grading and verification. This research focuses on observing the surface structure of the banana pseudostem fibre in the light microscope, scanning electron microscope, fineness, strength, chemical solubility, burning behaviours, and grading for different banana varieties. Fibres and fibre bundles were inspected visually and tested. One of the focus of this research is to produce quantifiable observations such as general observation test and feeling test. So the quantitative method can lead to exploring the systemic connection between experimental observation and mathematical expression for the grading of banana fibres. Based on the testing results, a novel grading system was introduced for banana fibres varieties (Sri Lankan cultivar).
Badminton motion capture with visual image detection of picking robotics
Authors: Li Changxin
Published: November 2020

In the process of strawberry easily broken fruit picking, in order to reduce the damage rate of the fruit, improves accuracy and efficiency of picking robot, field put forward a motion capture system based on international standard badminton edge feature detection and capture automation algorithm process of night picking robot badminton motion capture techniques training methods. The badminton motion capture system can analyze the game video in real time and obtain the accuracy rate of excellent badminton players and the technical characteristics of badminton motion capture through motion capture. The purpose of this article is to apply the high-precision motion capture vision control system to the design of the vision control system of the robot in the night picking process, so as to effectively improve the observation and recognition accuracy of the robot in the night picking process, so as to improve the degree of automation of the operation. This paper tests the reliability of the picking robot vision system. Taking the environment of picking at night as an example, image processing was performed on the edge features of the fruits picked by the picking robot. The results show that smooth and enhanced image processing can successfully extract edge features of fruit images. The accuracy of the target recognition rate and the positioning ability of the vision system of the picking robot were tested by the edge feature test. The results showed that the accuracy of the target recognition rate and the positioning ability of the motion edge of the vision system were far higher than 91%, satisfying the automation demand of the picking robot operation with high precision.
A review of algorithms and techniques for image-based recognition and inference in mobile robotic systems
Authors: Tawiah Thomas Andzi-Quainoo
Published: November 2020

Autonomous vehicles include driverless, self-driving and robotic cars, and other platforms capable of sensing and interacting with its environment and navigating without human help. On the other hand, semiautonomous vehicles achieve partial realization of autonomy with human intervention, for example, in driver-assisted vehicles. Autonomous vehicles first interact with their surrounding using mounted sensors. Typically, visual sensors are used to acquire images, and computer vision techniques, signal processing, machine learning, and other techniques are applied to acquire, process, and extract information. The control subsystem interprets sensory information to identify appropriate navigation path to its destination and action plan to carry out tasks. Feedbacks are also elicited from the environment to improve upon its behavior. To increase sensing accuracy, autonomous vehicles are equipped with many sensors [light detection and ranging (LiDARs), infrared, sonar, inertial measurement units, etc.], as well as communication subsystem. Autonomous vehicles face several challenges such as unknown environments, blind spots (unseen views), non-line-of-sight scenarios, poor performance of sensors due to weather conditions, sensor errors, false alarms, limited energy, limited computational resources, algorithmic complexity, human–machine communications, size, and weight constraints. To tackle these problems, several algorithmic approaches have been implemented covering design of sensors, processing, control, and navigation. The review seeks to provide up-to-date information on the requirements, algorithms, and main challenges in the use of machine vision–based techniques for navigation and control in autonomous vehicles. An application using land-based vehicle as an Internet of Thing-enabled platform for pedestrian detection and tracking is also presented.
Establishing a national mortality review programme for people with intellectual disabilities: The experience in England
Authors: Heslop Pauline , Byrne Victoria , Calkin Rachel , Gielnik Kamila , Huxor Avon
Published: November 2020

In England, the national mortality review programme for people with intellectual disabilities, the LeDeR programme, was established in 2015. The programme supports local areas to review the deaths of all people with intellectual disabilities aged 4 years and over. Each death has an initial review; if indicated, a full multi-agency review takes place. The learning from the mortality reviews contributes to service improvements locally and nationally. This paper describes the programme’s introduction and processes, exploring the challenges faced, and the successes achieved. It considers the background and rationale for the programme and the steps taken during its implementation, in order that others can learn from our experiences. Now the programme is established, its focus needs to shift so that we have a better understanding about how the findings of mortality reviews are leading to local and national service improvements and their impact.
A variational joint segmentation and registration framework for multimodal images
Authors: Ademaj Adela , Rada Lavdie , Ibrahim Mazlinda , Chen Ke
Published: November 2020

Image segmentation and registration are closely related image processing techniques and often required as simultaneous tasks. In this work, we introduce an optimization-based approach to a joint registration and segmentation model for multimodal images deformation. The model combines an active contour variational term with mutual information (MI) smoothing fitting term and solves in this way the difficulties of simultaneously performed segmentation and registration models for multimodal images. This combination takes into account the image structure boundaries and the movement of the objects, leading in this way to a robust dynamic scheme that links the object boundaries information that changes over time. Comparison of our model with state of art shows that our method leads to more consistent registrations and accurate results.
The last 48 hours
Authors: Kumar Monica
Published: November 2020

The last days of life are challenging for both patients and their loved ones. Recognition of the terminal stage of life can allow time for care planning. An early discussion can provide an opportunity for questions. It can be reassuring for patients and families to know that care needs are being carefully considered and met at this important time. The management of physiological changes, psychological distress, and spiritual needs at the end of life can improve quality of care and the quality of death; a ‘good death’ can help the bereavement and wellbeing of those left behind.
In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Moisturizing Properties of Pilea martini (Levl.) Hand.-Mazz. Extracts
Authors: Choi Jieun , Jung Young Yun , Ha In Jin , Baek Seung Ho , Zhang Zhiyun , Kim Soo-Yong , Hong Yejin , Kim Sungyoon , Yeum Hye Won , Jeon Sae-Rom , Park Kyungbok , Nam Dongwoo
Published: November 2020

The in vitro anti-inflammatory and skin moisturizing activities of Pilea martini (Levl.) Hand.-Mazz. were investigated on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and human immortalized keratinocytes. Chromatographic analysis was performed to identify the chemical composition of the extracts. Pilea martini extracts significantly suppressed LPS-induced nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α production in dose-dependent manners. In addition, the extracts inhibited LPS-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 proteins and their mRNA expression through causing a downregulation of nuclear factor-κB, activator protein 1, and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling cascades. The extracts increased the production of hyaluronic acid levels and enhanced the expression levels of both filaggrin and serine palmitoyltransferase regulation. Liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis showed that the extracts contained 6 different compounds (malic acid, tryptophan, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and isoquercetin) that may contribute to their bioactivities. Taken together, Pilea martini extract showed remarkable promise as an anti-inflammatory and moisturizing agent.
Spring Break or Heart Break? Extending Valence Bias to Emotional Words
Authors: Harp Nicholas R. , Brown Catherine C. , Neta Maital
Published: November 2020

Ambiguous stimuli are useful for assessing emotional bias. For example, surprised faces could convey a positive or negative meaning, and the degree to which an individual interprets these expressions as positive or negative represents their “valence bias.” Currently, the most well-validated ambiguous stimuli for assessing valence bias include nonverbal signals (faces and scenes), overlooking an inherent ambiguity in verbal signals. This study identified 32 words with dual-valence ambiguity (i.e., relatively high intersubject variability in valence ratings and relatively slow response times) and length-matched clearly valenced words (16 positive, 16 negative). Preregistered analyses demonstrated that the words-based valence bias correlated with the bias for faces, rs(213) = .27, p < .001, and scenes, rs(204) = .46, p < .001. That is, the same people who interpret ambiguous faces/scenes as positive also interpret ambiguous words as positive. These findings provide a novel tool for measuring valence bias and greater generalizability, resulting in a more robust measure of this bias.
Primary mediastinal germ cell tumors: Survival outcomes and prognostic factors – 10 years experience from a tertiary care institute
Authors: Kumar Narendra , Madan Renu , Dracham Chinna Babu , Chandran Vigneshwaran , Elangovan Arun , Khosla Divya , Yadav Budhi Singh , Kapoor Rakesh
Published: November 2020

Primary Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumor (PMGCT) is a rare and heterogeneous entity. These tumors are typically diagnosed in young adults and carry a poor prognosis. We conducted this study to evaluate the role of radiotherapy on treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in PMGCT that may allow a more adapted treatment strategy to improve survival. Case records of patients who presented with PMGCT over a period of 10-years from January-2009 to December-2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Survival analyses were calculated using Kaplan-Meier (Log-rank) method. Poor prognostic factors for survival were evaluated with Multivariate analysis using Cox-regression method. A total of 46-patients data was analyzed, the majority of the patients were males (95.7%) with a median age of 25-years (range, 17–62). Non-seminomatous histology was predominant (60.9%). Sixteen-patients (34.7%) presented with complications at their initial presentation. Majority of the patients were treated with multimodality approach using chemotherapy, surgery, and/or radiotherapy. At a median follow-up of 40.8 months, the 1, 3, and 5-year overall survival (OS) was 69.6%, 52.2%, and 44.7% respectively. Patients who received radiotherapy in first-line treatment showed significant improvement in 5-year OS (72% vs 30%, p = 0.004) and disease-free survival (70% vs 24%, p = 0.007) in comparison with patients who did not receive. Multivariate analysis revealed that radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and complications at presentation were independent prognostic factors for OS. PMGCTs are aggressive neoplasms especially in patients presenting with disease-related complications. Dual modality management (radiotherapy as local therapy along with chemotherapy) had shown improvement in survival.
Child care and COVID: Precarious communities in distanced times
Authors: Swadener Beth Blue , Peters Lacey , Frantz Bentley Dana , Diaz Xiomara , Bloch Marianne
Published: November 2020

Drawing from an analysis of responses to COVID affecting the ECCE sector in the US, including the narratives of early childhood educators, we engage with several questions. These include: How is care work with children constructed and affected by COVID-19? How might current responses and policies be understood through the lens of social citizenship and the collective/the individual? How do these issues reflect the precarity of the ECCE sector? How are embodied and emotional aspects of care work manifesting in early educator/caregiver lives in the time of the pandemic? Who is caring for the caregivers and what care may be needed? How can we re-imagine the care of ourselves, and in relation to an ethics of care for the other?
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of bipolar disorder
Authors: Hett Danielle , Marwaha Steven
Published: November 2020

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a debilitating mood disorder marked by manic, hypomanic and/or mixed or depressive episodes. It affects approximately 1–2% of the population and is linked to high rates of suicide, functional impairment and poorer quality of life. Presently, treatment options for BD are limited. There is a strong evidence base for pharmacological (e.g., lithium) and psychological (e.g., psychoeducation) treatments; however, both of these pose challenges for treatment outcomes (e.g., non-response, side-effects, limited access). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, is a recommended treatment for unipolar depression, but it is unclear whether rTMS is an effective, safe and well tolerated treatment in people with BD. This article reviews the extant literature on the use of rTMS to treat BD across different mood states. We found 34 studies in total ( N = 611 patients), with most assessing bipolar depression ( n = 26), versus bipolar mania ( n = 5), mixed state bipolar ( n = 2) or those not in a current affective episode ( n = 1). Across all studies, there appears to be a detectable signal of efficacy for rTMS treatment, as most studies report that rTMS treatment reduced bipolar symptoms. Importantly, within the randomised controlled trial (RCT) study designs, most reported that rTMS was not superior to sham in the treatment of bipolar depression. However, these RCTs are based on small samples ( NBD ⩽ 52). Reported side effects of rTMS in BD include headache, dizziness and sleep problems. Ten studies ( N = 14 patients) reported cases of affective switching; however, no clear pattern of potential risk factors for affective switching emerged. Future adequately powered, sham-controlled trials are needed to establish the ideal rTMS treatment parameters to help better determine the efficacy of rTMS for the treatment of BD.
Effect of norepinephrine combined with sodium phosphocreatine on cardiac function and prognosis of patients with septic shock
Authors: Kang Dawei , Yu Jian , Xia Jiading , Li Xiuhua , Wang Huarong , Zhao Yanjun
Published: November 2020

Septic shock (SS) leads to a high mortality rate for sepsis patients. Norepinephrine (NE) is a preferred vasoactive agent in SS treatment. This study aimed to assess the effects of NE at different administration time and NE combined with SP treatment on the cardiac function and prognosis of SS.

SS patients received NE treatment at different administration time and NE combined with SP treatment were enrolled in this study. The serum levels of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), ejection fraction (EF), and pressure-adjusted heart rate (PAR) value were analyzed to evaluate cardiac function. The 28-day survival information was collected and assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test.

The cardiac function of SS patients was improved significantly by NE treatment, especially in the patients received NE at 2 h after fluid infusion, which evidenced by the increased BNP and cTnI levels and EF% and the decreased RAP. In the NE-2 h group, SS patients had a better 28-day survival rate compared with those patients in NE-1 h and -3 h groups. Furthermore, the significantly improved cardiac function and survival outcomes were found in patients received NE combined SP treatment.

Taken together, this study results show that NE administration at 2 h after fluid infusion may be the optimal time point for the treatment of SS and NE combined with SP treatment can improve early cardiac dysfunction and 28-day survival outcomes in patients with SS.
High-Intensity Zones on MRI of the Cervical Spine in Patients: Epidemiology and Association With Pain and Disability
Authors: Nguyen Austin Q. , Harada Garrett K. , Leverich Kayla L. , Khanna Krishn , Louie Philip K. , Basques Bryce A. , Tao Youping , Galbusera Fabio , Niemeyer Frank , Wilke Hans-Joachim , An Howard S. , Samartzis Dino
Published: November 2020

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

This study aimed to address the prevalence, distribution, and clinical significance of cervical high-intensity zones (HIZs) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with respect to pain and other patient-reported outcomes in the setting of patients that will undergo an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedure.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study of ACDF patients surgically treated at a single center from 2008 to 2015. Based on preoperative MRI, HIZ subtypes were identified as either traditional T2-hyperintense, T1-hypointense (“single-HIZs”), or combined T1- and T2-hyperintense (“dual-HIZs”), and their level-specific prevalence was assessed. Preoperative symptoms, patient-reported outcomes, and disc degeneration pathology were assessed in relation to HIZs and HIZ subtypes.

Results:

Of 861 patients, 58 demonstrated evidence of HIZs in the cervical spine (6.7%). Single-HIZs and dual-HIZs comprised 63.8% and 36.2% of the overall HIZs, respectively. HIZs found outside of the planned fusion segment reported better preoperative Neck Disability Index (NDI; P = .049) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Arm ( P = .014) scores relative to patients without HIZs. Furthermore, patients with single-HIZs found inside the planned fusion segment had worse VAS Neck ( P = .045) and VAS Arm ( P = .010) scores. In general, dual-HIZ patients showed no significant differences across all clinical outcomes.

Conclusions:

This is the first study to evaluate the clinical significance of HIZs in the cervical spine, noting level-specific and clinical outcome–specific variations. Single-HIZs were associated with significantly more pain when located inside the fusion segment, while dual-HIZs showed no associations with patient-reported outcomes. The presence of single-HIZs may correlate with concurrent spinal pathologies and should be more closely evaluated.
Cervical Spine Alignment in the Sagittal Axis: A Review of the Best Validated Measures in Clinical Practice
Authors: Martini Michael L. , Neifert Sean N. , Chapman Emily K. , Mroz Thomas E. , Rasouli Jonathan J.
Published: November 2020

Study Design:

Review of the best-validated measures of cervical spine alignment in the sagittal axis.

Objective:

Describe the C2-C7 Cobb Angle, C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis, chin-brow to vertical angle, T1 slope minus C2-C7 lordosis, C2 slope, and different types of cervical kyphosis.

Methods:

Search PubMed for recent technical literature on radiograph-based measurements of the cervical spine.

Results:

Despite the continuing use of measures developed many years ago such as the C2-C7 Cobb angle, there are new radiographic parameters being published and utilized in recent years, including the C2 slope. Further research is needed to compare older and newer measures for cross-validation. Utilizing these measures to determine the degree of correction intraoperatively and postoperatively will enable surgeons to optimize patient-level outcomes.

Conclusion:

Cervical spinal deformity can be a debilitating condition characterized by cervical spinal misalignment that affects the elderly more commonly than young populations. Many of these validated measures of cervical spinal alignment are useful in clinical settings due to their ease of implementation and correlations with various postoperative and health-related quality of life outcomes.
The Effect of Traditional Single Growing Rod Technique on the Growth of Unsegmented Levels in Mixed-Type Congenital Scoliosis
Authors: Rong Tianhua , Shen Jianxiong , Wang Yipeng , Li Zheng , Lin Youxi , Tan Haining , Feng Erwei , Jiao Yang
Published: November 2020

Study Design:

Retrospective case series.

Objectives:

To present outcomes concerning patients with early-onset mixed-type congenital scoliosis (EOMTCS) treated with the traditional single growing rod (TSGR), focusing on the growth of unsegmented levels (USLs).

Methods:

Patients with EOMTCS who underwent TSGR and had a minimum of 4 USLs, 4 distractions, and 3-year follow-up were enrolled. Spine radiographs before and after index surgery and at the latest follow-up were evaluated. The length of the concave and convex side of USLs and thoracic parameters were measured. The absolute value and percentage of growth were calculated.

Results:

Fourteen patients (mean age, 7.3 ± 2.8 years) were enrolled. The average follow-up duration was 4.9 ± 1.2 years, during which time 84 distractions and 8 final fusions were performed. The average number of USLs was 6.3 ± 2.2. The total and annual percent growth of concave side of USLs was significantly higher than convex side (32.2 ± 13.3% vs. 23.9 ± 9.5%, p = 0.007; 6.8 ± 2.7%/year vs. 5.1% ± 2.2%/year, p = 0.007, respectively). The concave-to-convex ratio of USLs increased from 58.6 ± 6.4 ± 7.6% at baseline to 68.8 ± 9.3% at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001). The Campbell’s space available for lung ratio increased from 74.9 ± 11.1% at baseline to 89.6 ± 7.0% at the latest follow-up (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

In patients with EOMTCS, unilateral repetitive lengthening with TSGR can accelerate the growth of the concave side of USLs and improve the symmetry of the thorax.
Exploring Influence Mechanism of Abusive Supervision on Subordinates’ Work Incivility: A Proposed Framework
Authors: Jha Jatinder Kumar , Sud Kashika
Published: November 2020

The prevalence of abusive supervision in the organisations and severe consequences associated with it has compelled researchers to explore the various dynamics of this phenomenon. This study exemplifies the conditions under which subordinates respond to abusive behaviours of their supervisors. Based on the existing literature and theoretical lenses, we postulate the detrimental effects of abusive supervision combined with the perception of injustice and politics in an organisation on deviance behaviours of the subordinates. The proposed framework suggests abusive supervision triggers work incivility among subordinates via the creation of an unjust and politically charged work environment. Besides, we find work incivility to be contingent on the political skill; subordinates with high political skill do not resort to work incivility as a response to abusive supervision of managers, rather, they rely on their political skills to survive in a toxic work environment. The proposed framework is primarily based on two theoretical foundations—social exchange theory and uncertainty management theory.
Land Administration Reforms: Institutional Design for Land Registration System in Ghana
Authors: Biitir Samuel B. , Miller Appau Williams , Musah Cynthia Itbo
Published: November 2020

Securing land rights and the rationalisation of the debate on formalisation of land rights through titling have been the focus of many scholars for some time now. At least, there is consensus among most scholars that land registration is one of the ways of addressing these issues and that current land registration system in most developing countries needs reforms. This paper examines the design and implementation processes of land registration reforms in Ghana. Using the Greater Accra Regional Lands Commission as a case study and institutional design theories, the article analysed how land registration reforms were design and implemented. The paper shows that the design strategies for the reforms were harmonisation of policies and laws and organisation restructuring at the organisational and process levels, but staff resistance to change led to implementation flaws. The paper recommends that institution design of land registration reforms must be combined with the theory of change where all staff are taken through the new organisation’s work ethics and attitudinal change processes adequately.
Decline in Racial Disparities for United States Hospital Admissions After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction From 2007 to 2015
Authors: Li Lambert T. , Bokshan Steven L. , McGlone Patrick J. , Owens Brett D.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Racial disparities in perioperative complications have been shown to exist for many procedures in orthopaedic surgery. Although anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is commonly performed as an outpatient procedure, the rate of admission to the hospital postoperatively is not insignificant. Hispanic patients have been shown to have higher odds of admission compared with non-Hispanic patients.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that racial disparities would decrease from 2007 to 2015, resulting in lower rates of hospital admission for Black and Hispanic patients.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

This study represents a retrospective analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database for patients undergoing ACLR between 2007 and 2015. We performed bivariate analysis as well as binary logistic regression, with postoperative admission as the primary outcome. Previously identified risk factors for admission were used as predictors in addition to a term for the statistical interaction between year of surgery and ethnicity.

Results:

A total of 7542 patients undergoing ACLR were assessed. The logistic regression model showed that Hispanic patients had higher overall odds of admission (odds ratio [OR], 3.320; P < .001) than White patients; Black patients also had higher odds compared with White patients (OR, 1.929; P = .009). However, there was a significant interaction between year of surgery and both Black ethnicity (OR, 0.907; P = .026) and Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 0.835; P = .002), indicating a significant decrease in the admission rates for these minority patients compared with White patients over time. Other risk factors for admission were the use of regional anesthesia (OR, 3.482; P < .001), bleeding disorders (OR, 5.064; P = .002), a higher body mass index (OR, 1.029; P < .001), and longer operative times (OR, 1.012; P < .001). More recent surgery was associated with lower odds of admission (OR, 0.826; P < .001).

Conclusion:

Admission rates after ACLR declined from 2007 to 2015. Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to be admitted overall, but they also saw a greater decrease in the odds of admission than White patients. This represents a reduction in disparity between the 2 groups and is a reassuring improvement in racial disparity trends after a common sports procedure.
Spontaneous object-location memory based on environmental geometry is impaired by both hippocampal and dorsolateral striatal lesions
Authors: Poulter Steven L. , Kosaki Yutaka , Sanderson David J. , McGregor Anthony
Published: November 2020

We examined the role of the hippocampus and the dorsolateral striatum in the representation of environmental geometry using a spontaneous object recognition procedure. Rats were placed in a kite-shaped arena and allowed to explore two distinctive objects in each of the right-angled corners. In a different room, rats were then placed into a rectangular arena with two identical copies of one of the two objects from the exploration phase, one in each of the two adjacent right-angled corners that were separated by a long wall. Time spent exploring these two objects was recorded as a measure of recognition memory. Since both objects were in different locations with respect to the room (different between exploration and test phases) and the global geometry (also different between exploration and test phases), differential exploration of the objects must be a result of initial habituation to the object relative to its local geometric context. The results indicated an impairment in processing the local geometric features of the environment for both hippocampus and dorsolateral striatum lesioned rats compared with sham-operated controls, though a control experiment showed these rats were unimpaired in a standard object recognition task. The dorsolateral striatum has previously been implicated in egocentric route-learning, but the results indicate an unexpected role for the dorsolateral striatum in processing the spatial layout of the environment. The results provide the first evidence that lesions to the hippocampus and dorsolateral striatum impair spontaneous encoding of local environmental geometric features.
Clinical Outcomes and Cadaveric Biomechanical Analysis of Endoscopic Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair With Absorbable Suture
Authors: Carpenter Daniel , Dederer Katherine , Weinhold Paul , Tennant Joshua N.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Percutaneous repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) continues to gain in popularity. The primary aim of the study was to review the outcomes of a patient cohort undergoing a novel technique of endoscopic percutaneous Achilles tendon repair with absorbable suture. A secondary purpose of this study was to evaluate the basic biomechanical properties of the technique.

Methods:

A cohort of 30 patients who underwent percutaneous ATR repair was retrospectively analyzed with Achilles Tendon Rupture Scores (ATRS), complications, and additional outcome measures. For a biomechanical analysis portion of the study, 12 cadaveric specimens were paired and randomized to either novel percutaneous repair or open Kessler repair with absorbable suture. These specimens were subjected to 2 phases of cyclical testing (100 cycles 10-43 N followed by 200 cycles 10-86 N) and ultimate strength testing.

Results:

In the clinical portion of the study we report excellent patient reported outcomes (mean ATRS 94.1), high level of return to sport, and high patient satisfaction. One partial re-rupture was reported but with no major wound or neurologic complications. In the biomechanical portion of the study we found no significant difference in tendon gapping between percutaneous and open repairs in phase 1 of testing. In phase 2, increased gapping occurred between percutaneous (17.8 mm [range 10.7-24.1, SD 6.4]) and open repairs (10.8 mm [range 7.6-14.9, SD 2.7, P = .037]). The ultimate load at failure was not statistically different between the 2 repairs.

Conclusions:

A percutaneous ATR repair technique using endoscopic assistance and absorbable suture demonstrated low complications and good outcomes in a cohort of patients, with high satisfaction, and excellent functional outcomes including high rates of return to sport. Cadaveric biomechanical testing demonstrated excellent survival during testing and minimal increase in gapping compared with open repair technique, representing sufficient strength to withstand forces seen in early rehabilitation. A percutaneous Achilles tendon repair technique with absorbable suture may minimize risks associated with operative repair while still maintaining the benefit of operative repair.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Evaluation of negative pressure transfer through tissue in a benchtop cornea and eyelid model
Authors: Chu Nathan , Brambilla Enrico , Yoo Paul , Ferguson Tanner J.
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

A new glaucoma treatment device, known as the multi-pressure dial (MPD), has been introduced, which offers a novel approach to IOP reduction by delivering negative pressure to the periocular region. Clinical studies have demonstrated the IOP-lowering effect of the MPD via direct measurements using pneumatonometry. It remains unclear whether the eyelids, when closed, affect the transmission of negative pressure and subsequently affect IOP reduction. This study aimed to evaluate whether the transfer of negative pressure and subsequent decrease in IOP are altered by the presence of synthetic eyelid tissue.

Methods:

A model with 13 different configurations controlling for eyelid material type, presence of slit/opening, and eyelid–cornea contact was employed. The slit modification was employed to mimic the physiologic separation that exists between the eyelids. Baseline IOP within an eye model was set at various levels ranging from 10 to 30 mmHg with applied negative pressure settings of 10, 15, and 20 mmHg utilized at each baseline IOP. The percentage of vacuum transfer was calculated by comparing baseline IOP to resultant IOP measurements following application of vacuum to the system.

Results:

In the open configuration (without eyelid tissue), the mean % vacuum transfer was 98.7%. The sealed, full-contact configurations exhibited values of 97.4%, 98.8%, and 97.2%. The slit configurations, which closely mimic the physiologic eyelid, demonstrated a mean % vacuum transfer of 98.7% across all settings.

Conclusions:

The impact of eyelid tissue on transfer of negative pressure can be isolated and evaluated. The presence of eyelid tissue has an insignificant impact on the transfer of negative pressure, and the IOP reduction achievable with the MPD would not be altered with the eyelids closed.
Bollywood in Transition: Chiragdeep’s Reflection of the Film Industry
Authors: Sarkar Soumya , Shah Ami Mitinkumar , Dutta Swarup Kumar
Published: November 2020

This case illustrates Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, operating out of Mumbai. As an industry, Bollywood is at crossroads today, trying to create a sustainable business model. The case dives deep into the structure of the industry, the conduct of its existing players and its performance. The case stands out as a means for understanding industry-level competitiveness and the unique profitability patterns. It addresses the concerns of the incumbents of Bollywood and how they can draw lessons from its peer—the Tamil film industry in Chennai—in terms of a regulated sustainable business model.
Cutaneous Inputs to Dorsal Column Nuclei in Adult Macaque Monkeys Subjected to Unilateral Lesion of the Primary Motor Cortex or of the Cervical Spinal Cord and Treatments Promoting Axonal Growth
Authors: Savidan Julie , Beaud Marie-Laure , Rouiller Eric M
Published: November 2020

The highly interconnected somatosensory and motor systems are subjected to connectivity changes at close or remote locations following a central nervous system injury. What is the impact of unilateral injury of the primary motor cortex (hand area; MCI) or of the cervical cord (hemisection at C7-C8 level; SCI) on the primary somatosensory (cutaneous) inputs to the dorsal column nuclei (DCN) in adult macaque monkeys? The effects of treatments promoting axonal growth were assessed. In the SCI group (n = 4), 1 monkey received a control antibody and 3 monkeys a combination treatment of anti-Nogo-A antibody and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In the MCI group (n = 4), 2 monkeys were untreated and 2 were treated with the anti-Nogo-A antibody. Using trans-ganglionic transport of cholera toxin B subunit injected in the first 2 fingers and toes on both sides, the areas of axonal terminal fields in the cuneate and gracile nuclei were bilaterally compared. Unilateral SCI at C7-C8 level, encroaching partially on the dorsal funiculus, resulted in an ipsilesional lower extent of the inputs from the toes in the gracile nuclei, not modified by the combined treatment. SCI at C7-C8 level did not affect the bilateral balance of primary inputs to the cuneate nuclei, neither in absence nor in presence of the combined treatment. MCI targeted to the hand area did not impact on the primary inputs to the cuneate nuclei in 2 untreated monkeys. After MCI, the administration of anti-Nogo-A antibody resulted in a slight bilateral asymmetrical extent of cutaneous inputs to the cuneate nuclei, with a larger extent ipsilesionally. Overall, remote effects following MCI or SCI have not been observed at the DCN level, except possibly after MCI and anti-Nogo-A antibody treatment.
Research-to-Resource: Instructional Strategies for Teaching Culturally Diverse Musics in Ensembles
Authors: Yoo Hyesoo
Published: November 2020

The inclusion of musics from varied cultural traditions in school music curricula has become increasingly important. Research findings indicate that providing students with opportunities to learn musics from diverse cultures can increase acceptance and appreciation of different cultures, enrich music and cultural experiences, and nurture intercultural competence. The following research-to-resource article provides eight instructional strategies for integrating culturally diverse musics into music classes more effectively. These eight strategies can help expose students to culturally diverse musics in more traditional ways and deepen their knowledge of music styles.
Pre-Alpine thermal history recorded in the continental crust from Alpine Corsica (France): evidence from zircon and allanite LA-ICP-MS dating
Authors: Di Rosa Maria , Farina Federico , Lanari Pierre , Marroni Michele
Published: November 2020

The pre-Alpine history of the Venaco-Ghisoni Unit, a continental unit belonging to the Alpine Corsica (France), was reconstructed on the basis of U–Pb dating of zircon and allanite. Zircon was separated from a metagranitoid and an epidote-bearing metagabbro and analyzed by Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). Magmatic ages ranging from 291 to 265 Ma were obtained for the metagranitoid samples and 276.9 ± 1.1 Ma for the epidote-bearing metagabbro. This geochronological dataset, combined with field observations, microstructural and cathodoluminescence analysis demonstrate that in the Early Permian, the Variscan basement of the Venaco-Ghisoni Unit was intruded first by the granitoid and then by the gabbro. Allanite was identified in the metagranitoid and exhibit an U–Pb age of 225 ± 8 Ma. We interpret this age as reflecting metamorphism associated to the Late Triassic rifting predating the opening of the Piemonte-Liguria Ocean. The absence of middle Eocene—Oligocene zircon and allanite overgrowths is compatible with the low metamorphic conditions (< 350–400 °C) recorded by the Venaco-Ghisoni Unit during Alpine metamorphism.