bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Mooring Placement to Constrain Southern Ocean Air–Sea Fluxes
Authors: Wei Yanzhou , Gille Sarah T. , Mazloff Matthew R. , Tamsitt Veronica , Swart Sebastiaan , Chen Dake , Newman Louise
Published: August 2020

Proposals from multiple nations to deploy air–sea flux moorings in the Southern Ocean have raised the question of how to optimize the placement of these moorings in order to maximize their utility, both as contributors to the network of observations assimilated in numerical weather prediction and also as a means to study a broad range of processes driving air–sea fluxes. This study, developed as a contribution to the Southern Ocean Observing System (SOOS), proposes criteria that can be used to determine mooring siting to obtain best estimates of net air–sea heat flux (Qnet). Flux moorings are envisioned as one component of a multiplatform observing system, providing valuable in situ point time series measurements to be used alongside satellite data and observations from autonomous platforms and ships. Assimilating models (e.g., numerical weather prediction and reanalysis products) then offer the ability to synthesize the observing system and map properties between observations. This paper develops a framework for designing mooring array configurations to maximize the independence and utility of observations. As a test case, within the meridional band from 35° to 65°S we select eight mooring sites optimized to explain the largest fraction of the total variance (and thus to ensure the least variance of residual components) in the area south of 20°S. Results yield different optimal mooring sites for low-frequency interannual heat fluxes compared with higher-frequency subseasonal fluxes. With eight moorings, we could explain a maximum of 24.6% of high-frequency Qnet variability or 44.7% of low-frequency Qnet variability.
Different Perceptions Exist Between Health Care Providers and the General Population Regarding the Importance of Findings on Additional Imaging for Trauma Consults
Authors: Plaster Andrew L. , Faulks Emily R. , Gillen Jacob N. , Tegge Allison N. , Matos Miguel A. , Lollar Daniel I. , Bower Katie L. , Nussbaum Michael S. , Collier Bryan R. , Hamill Mark E.
Published: July 2020

Background

Approximately one-third of additional imaging for trauma consults results in the discovery of new injuries. No studies have addressed the perception of these findings in non-health care providers. Our hypothesis was that significant differences in perception of the importance of injuries would exist between health care providers (HCPs) and the general population.

Methods

Six standardized scenarios were developed detailing common new injury findings on additional imaging in trauma consults. Demographics as well as information regarding the significance of findings, potential for change in care, and the importance of patient notification were collected. Surveys were electronically distributed to HCPs in our system and the public. Data analysis was performed with generalized linear modeling.

Results

A total of 339 public and 129 HCP surveys were returned. HCPs included attending staff, residents, and advanced care providers from a variety of specialties. Significant differences in perception were found in traumatic brain injury, spine fractures, and rib fractures, with HCPs rating most findings as less clinically important than the general population, while rating patient notification as more important. Perceived importance decreased with increased age in the general population. Increasing HCP age or length in practice did not significantly affect perception of clinical importance, except for rib fractures.

Discussion

Differences in perception exist regarding the significance of additional injuries between HCPs and the general population. Perceptions of the general population also change with age. Decisions to pursue additional imaging in trauma patients should include consideration of these differences in perception to help support quality patient-centered care.
Views on a “Good Death”: End-of-Life Preferences and Their Association With Socio-Demographic Characteristics in a Representative Sample of Older Adults in Switzerland
Authors: Borrat-Besson Carmen , Vilpert Sarah , Borasio Gian Domenico , Maurer Jürgen
Published: July 2020

The current study explores the end-of-life (EOL) preferences of a national representative sample of adults aged 55 and older in Switzerland and shows how these preferences vary by respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics and the linguistic region in which they live. Many of the presented EOL attributes are considered as (very) important by a large majority of the older population in Switzerland with significant variations across sociodemographic groups. Specifically, gender is related to psychosocial aspects of EOL, age to the importance attached to avoiding being a burden on the society, and education levels to preferences regarding overtreatment and advance care planning. The results highlight the importance of a personalized, holistic and interdisciplinary approach to EOL and EOL care, since social, psychological, organizational and physical aspects of EOL are rated as (very) important with significant differences in EOL preferences across sociodemographic groups.
Numerical calculation for coupling vibration system by Piecewise-Laplace method
Authors: Fang Pan , Wang Kexin , Dai Liming , Zhang Chixiang
Published: July 2020

To improve the reliability and accuracy of dynamic machine in design process, high precision and efficiency of numerical computation is essential means to identify dynamic characteristics of mechanical system. In this paper, a new computation approach is introduced to improve accuracy and efficiency of computation for coupling vibrating system. The proposed method is a combination of piecewise constant method and Laplace transformation, which is simply called as Piecewise-Laplace method. In the solving process of the proposed method, the dynamic system is first sliced by a series of continuous segments to reserve physical attribute of the original system; Laplace transformation is employed to separate coupling variables in segment system, and solutions of system in complex domain can be determined; then, considering reverse Laplace transformation and residues theorem, solution in time domain can be obtained; finally, semi-analytical solution of system is given based on continuity condition. Through comparison of numerical computation, it can be found that precision and efficiency of numerical results with the Piecewise-Laplace method is better than Runge-Kutta method within same time step. If a high-accuracy solution is required, the Piecewise-Laplace method is more suitable than Runge-Kutta method.
Humanizing Student–Teacher Relationships for Black Children: Implications for Teachers’ Social–Emotional Training
Authors: Legette Kamilah B. , Rogers Leoandra Onnie , Warren Chezare A.
Published: July 2020

A growing number of scholars in the field of urban education compellingly demonstrate the myriad ways U.S. schooling for Black youth is dehumanizing. Social and emotional learning (SEL), particularly, transformative social emotional learning (TSEL) has come to the fore as a promising intervention to promote positive inclusive school cultures and relationships while recognizing and accounting for the realities of racial oppression. Here, we discuss teachers’ capacity to develop and negotiate student–teacher relationships that acknowledge and actively confront the dehumanization of Black youth in schools. We provide recommendations for teachers’ social emotional training that can effectively humanize learning environments for Black youth.
When Mom Earns More Than Dad: The Parenting Experience in Light of New Earning Patterns
Authors: Kulik Liat , Ramon Dan
Published: July 2020

The study examined the relationship between a mother’s earning advantage over her husband, and three aspects of the parenting experience: the cognitive aspect (examined through the concept of parental self-efficacy), the emotional aspect (examined through the quality of the relationship with the children), and the behavioral aspect (examined through parental involvement in childcare). The sample included 246 Israeli Jewish participants who were not married to one another and do not share a household (85 fathers and 161 mothers). Fathers with traditional gender role attitudes whose income is lower than that of the mothers scored lower than other participants on paternal self-efficacy, and experienced less closeness and lower satisfaction in their relationship with their children, regardless of gender. The findings indicate that fathers who hold traditional gender role attitudes and do not serve as main providers constitute a particularly vulnerable group in terms of the parenting experience.
Forensic DNA phenotyping and its politics of legitimation and contestation: Views of forensic geneticists in Europe
Authors: Granja Rafaela , Machado Helena
Published: July 2020

Forensic DNA Phenotyping (FDP) is a set of techniques that aim to infer externally visible characteristics in humans – such as eye, hair and skin color – and biogeographical ancestry of an unknown person, based on biological material. FDP has been applied in various jurisdictions in a limited number of high-profile cases to provide intelligence for criminal investigations. There are on-going controversies about the reliability and validity of FDP, which come together with debates about the ethical challenges emerging from the use of this technology in the criminal justice system. Our study explores how, in the context of complex politics of legitimation of and contestation over the use of FDP, forensic geneticists in Europe perceive this technology’s potential applications, utility and risks. Forensic geneticists perform several forms of discursive boundary work, making distinctions between science and the criminal justice system, experts and non-experts, and good and bad science. Such forms of boundary work reconstruct the complex positioning vis-à-vis legal and scientific realities. In particular, while mobilizing interest in FDP, forensic geneticists simultaneously carve out notions of risk, accountability and scientific conduct that perform distance from FDP’ implications in the criminal justice system.
Preventing Animal-Vehicle Crashes using a Smart Detection Technology and Warning System
Authors: Druta Cristian , Alden Andrew S.
Published: July 2020

Animal-vehicle collisions (AVCs), and deer-vehicle collisions (DVCs) in particular, are a major safety problem on roads in Virginia, United States. Mitigation measures such as improved fencing and location-specific driver alerts are being implemented and evaluated in Virginia and elsewhere. One of the most promising mitigation methods uses a buried cable animal detection system (BCADS) to provide roadside or in-vehicle warnings to approaching drivers based on the active presence of an animal on or near the roadway. In this study, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in collaboration with the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) implemented and monitored the performance of a BCADS on a public road to provide a real-world assessment of system capabilities and possible operation issues. Concurrently, a flashing light “Deer Crossing” warning sign was installed at the site and linked with the BCADS to alert approaching drivers when an animal crossing was detected. Continuous video surveillance data were collected for a year to monitor animal movement, vehicle traffic, and system performance. Study findings indicate that the BCADS is capable of detecting larger animals such as deer, and sometimes smaller animals such as coyotes, with almost 99% reliability. The system also performed well when covered by approximately 0.6 m (2 ft) of snow. Vehicle speed and brake light application data collected during warning sign activation showed that approximately 80% of drivers either braked or slowed in response, indicating that the sign was effective. A 75% reduction in deer-vehicle crashes was observed in the first year after system deployment.
Cross-Sectional Study of Vehicle Speeds on Rural Four-Lane Highway Curves
Authors: Pratt Michael P. , Geedipally Srinivas R. , Le Minh
Published: July 2020

Research has consistently shown that horizontal curves are often associated with increased crash rates compared with similar tangent highway sections. These crashes are often related to speed and the difficulty of judging the severity of the curve. Curve speed models are used for a variety of applications, including assessing operational characteristics, evaluating design speed, conducting spot safety analyses, and setting curve advisory speeds. However, most of the documented curve speed models apply to rural two-lane highways, while relatively few models have been developed for rural multilane highways. These types of highways may exhibit different driver behavior in curves because of their more generous geometric design and higher traffic volumes. The objective of this paper is to document models that have been developed for several types of rural four-lane highways, including undivided highways, divided highways, and freeways. The authors developed models that account for geometric characteristics like curve radius, superelevation rate, and deflection angle, as well as operational characteristics like approach tangent (TN) speed. These models were calibrated using a database of about 46,000 vehicles across 29 horizontal curve sites in central Texas.
Full-Scale Evaluation of Relatively Thin Airfield Pavements
Authors: Robinson W. Jeremy , Tingle Jeb S. , Gonzalez Carlos R.
Published: July 2020

A full-scale airfield pavement test section was constructed and trafficked by the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to evaluate the performance of relatively thin airfield pavement structures. The test section consisted of four test items that included three asphalt pavement thicknesses and two different aggregate base courses. The test items were subjected to simulated aircraft traffic to evaluate their response and performance to realistic aircraft loads. Rutting behavior, instrumentation response, and falling weight deflectometer response were monitored at selected traffic intervals. It was found that the performance of the airfield pavement sections were most sensitive to aggregate base course properties, where a 50% reduction in base course strength resulted in a 99% reduction in allowable passes. The data suggested that when sufficient asphalt thickness is not provided, the failure mechanism shifted from subgrade failure to base course failure, particularly at higher subgrade CBR values. In addition, the number of aircraft passes sustained was less than that predicted by current Department of Defense (DOD) methods that include assumptions of a high-quality aggregate base and a minimum asphalt concrete thickness. The results of this study were used to extend existing DOD pavement design and evaluation techniques to include the evaluation of airfield pavement sections that do not meet the current criteria for aggregate base quality and minimum asphalt concrete surface thickness. These performance data were used to develop a new base failure design curve using existing stress-based design criteria.
Magnetorheological finishing of copper cylindrical roller for its improved performance in printing machine
Authors: Singh Manpreet , Singh Anant Kumar
Published: July 2020

The copper cylindrical roller plays an important role in the printing operation. The copper roller requires fine and uniform finishing to uniformly distribute the colours and ingot material. Fine and uniform finishing of copper cylindrical rollers get difficulty using the traditional finishing processes due to their ductility and low hardness. Therefore, to achieve this fine finishing requirement, the rotary rectangular tool core-based magnetorheological (MR) finishing process is employed. Initially, the suitable MR polishing fluid composition is selected for the effective fine finishing of the surface of the copper cylindrical rollers. Furthermore, the central composite design is used to optimize the MR finishing process parameters. The surface roughness profiles, surface texture, and reflection tests are performed on the initial ground surface and the MR finished surface of the copper roller. The surface roughness value gets reduced from 190 nm to 25 nm after 4 hrs MR finishing with the optimum parametric conditions over the copper cylindrical roller surface having a dimension of 120 mm in length and 25 mm in diameter. The present MR finishing process found effective to significantly reduce the surface roughness value and enhance the surface characteristics of the copper cylindrical rollers. The geometrical dimensions in terms of circularity and straightness are also checked on the initial ground surface and finished surface of the copper cylindrical roller using the coordinate measuring machine and waviness test. The enhancement in surface characteristics, dimensional accuracy, and surface hardness after the present MR finishing process is found to be beneficial for improving the functional performance of the copper cylindrical rollers in the printing processing machine.
High rises and low-quality shelter: rental housing dynamics in Mathare Valley, Nairobi
Authors: Mwau Baraka , Sverdlik Alice
Published: July 2020

Informal rental housing remains a hidden – yet central – pillar of low-cost shelter markets across the global South. The large informal settlement of Mathare Valley illustrates Nairobi’s rapidly changing informal rental housing markets, with the ongoing rise of tenements alongside metal shacks. Informal single-room rental units (shacks and tenements) already house most Nairobi residents in low-quality but highly profitable shelter. This case study describes how multiple exclusions can shape access to rental housing and examines the politics of shelter delivery. We underscore the importance of private rental markets and offer recommendations for inclusive, multi-pronged interventions combining support for rental housing, land governance and infrastructure delivery. Through a better understanding of the myriad actors and dynamics of informal rental housing, it may be possible to develop strategies that serve low-income tenants for whom renting is often the only viable option.
Electrostrictive polymer plates as electro-elastic material surfaces: Modeling, analysis, and simulation
Authors: Hansy-Staudigl Elisabeth , Krommer Michael
Published: July 2020

In this article we discuss modeling of electrostrictive polymer plates as electro-elastic material surfaces. A complete direct approach is developed without the need to involve the three-dimensional formulation. Ponderomotive forces and couples as well as constitutive coupling by means of electrostriction are accounted for. We propose a rational formulation for the augmented free energy of electro-elastic material surfaces incorporating electrostriction by a multiplicative decomposition of the surface stretch tensor and an additive decomposition of the surface curvature tensor into elastic and electrical parts. Numerical results computed within the framework of this complete direct approach are compared to results computed with a method that requires the numerical integration of the three-dimensional augmented free energy through the thickness of the plate and to alternative formulations reported in the literature.
Addressing Electroconvulsive Therapy Knowledge Gaps and Stigmatized Views Among Nursing Students Through a Psychiatrist–APRN Didactic Partnership
Authors: Kitay Brandon M. , Walde Tina , Robertson Dilice , Cohen Tammy , Duvivier Robbert , Martin Andrés
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Knowledge gaps and stigmatized perceptions regarding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) among patients and health providers contribute to the underutilization of an important therapeutic modality. The proactive education of future advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) provides an opportunity to optimize the use of this evidence-based clinical practice. AIMS: As part of a general course in psychiatry during the first year of nursing school, we dedicated 1 hour to treatment-refractory depression, including ECT, and a second hour to a summary discussion of mood disorders. We evaluated the efficacy of this didactic offering, which was co-taught by a psychiatrist and a psychiatric APRN. METHOD: At baseline, consenting students ( n = 94) provided three words they associated with ECT and then completed three validated instruments: (a) Questionnaire on Attitudes and Knowledge of ECT, (b) Opening Minds Stigma Scale for Health Care Providers, and (c) Self-Stigma of Seeking Help. Among the 67 students who repeated the assessment at endpoint, 39 attended the ECT didactic (Intervention group, 58%) and 28 did not (Control, 42%). RESULTS: After completion of the 3-month course, students showed improvement across all measures ( p < .001). The only outcomes that improved differentially between the Intervention and Control groups were the Questionnaire on Attitudes and Knowledge of ECT Attitudes and Knowledge scales ( p = .01). Word choice valence associated with ECT shifted favorably by endpoint ( p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: An educational intervention co-led by a psychiatric-mental health APRN had a significant impact on nursing students’ knowledge and perceptions of ECT. This approach can be readily implemented at other institutions. Future refinements will include the videotaped depiction of a simulated patient undergoing the consent, treatment, and recovery phases of ECT.
Effect of inulin-type fructans and galactooligosaccharides on cultures of Lactobacillus strains isolated in Algeria from camel’s milk and human colostrum
Authors: Derriche Ibtissem , Nogacka Alicja M , Salazar Nuria , Ruas-Madiedo Patricia , Gueimonde M , Bensalah Farid , de los Reyes-Gavilán Clara G
Published: July 2020

Bacteria from the genus Lactobacillus are responsible for spontaneous food fermentations. Some species, such as Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus brevis, have the “Qualified Presumption of Safety” status recognized by the European Food Safety Authority. Several of their strains are used as probiotics in foods and sometimes are included in synbiotic combinations together with prebiotics. New microbial strains isolated from different sources represent an opportunity to use them for the production of traditional food products. The capacity of three selected strains (one isolated from Camel’s milk and identified by partial 16 S rRNA gene sequencing as L. brevis, and two isolated from human colostrum and identified as L. paracasei/L. casei and L. brevis, respectively) was assessed in vitro for the ability to survive in gastrointestinal conditions (low pH and high bile salts concentrations). We also tested the capacity of growth and the production of organic acids and volatile compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography, respectively, when these bacteria were incubated anaerobically in the presence of inulin, fructooligosaccharides, or galactooligosaccharides as the main carbon sources. The strains were able to survive in simulated gastrointestinal conditions and to grow in inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides. However, they displayed different profiles of organic acids and volatile compounds, mainly depending on the microbial species and the prebiotic used. The influence that the combined use of strains and different prebiotics could exert on the organic acids and volatiles formed in food and in the gut should be assessed for each synbiotic combination and food product.
Peripapillary capillary density in acute angle closure crisis and angle closure suspect: A structure, flow and function correlation study
Authors: Allam Riham SHM , Eltanamly Rasha Mounir , Raafat Karim Adly
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

to describe peripapillary vascular changes using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A) in patients with acute angle closure crisis (AACC) and primary-angle closure-suspects (PACS) in comparison to normal controls.

Methods:

This cross-sectional/case-control/non-randomized study was conducted at Cairo University Hospitals. It included 21 eyes following AACC, 21 eyes of PACS and 32 eyes of age-matched-controls. Participants underwent visual field (VF) examination, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) assessment using spectral-domain-OCT (SD-OCT), and radial peripapillary capillary density (RPC%) using OCT-A.

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference in MD and PSD among the three groups ( p ⩽ 0.001). There was a significant difference in mean RNFL among the three groups ( p ⩽ 0.001), this decrease was still present when comparing the AACC group to controls p = 0.032. There was a significant decrease in the peripapillary RPC% in all groups p ⩽ 0.001. The correlation between structure, function and flow was studied for all groups. Peripapillary RPC% in AACC was positively correlated to MD and peripapillary RNFL ( p ⩽ 0.001). In PACS, RPC% was positively correlated to RNFL ( p = 0.012). In controls, RPC% was positively correlated to PSD and peripapillary RNFL ( p ⩽ 0.001). AUC was 0.8 for the MD, 0.56 for the RPC and 0.38 for the RNFL

Conclusions:

Peripapillary vessel density was lower in AACC eyes than in suspects and control eyes. OCT-A parameters could be a more sensitive marker than OCT parameters after an AACC attack as evident on ROC analysis. PACS remains a clinical diagnosis as we could not find any significant differences in OCT or OCT-A parameters between suspects and normal healthy controls.
Book review: Mezzadri, Alessandra. 2017: The Sweatshop Regime: Labouring Bodies, Exploitation, and Garments Made in India
Authors: Todd Megan Sophie
Published: July 2020

Mezzadri, Alessandra. 2017: The Sweatshop Regime: Labouring Bodies, Exploitation, and Garments Made in India. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 258 pp. £75. ISBN: 9781107116962 (Hardback).
Therapeutic Effects of 5,7-Dihydroxy-6-Oxoheptadecanoic Acid on Dysglycemia, Dyslipidemia, and Other Complications in Diabetic Rats
Authors: An Cuilan , Wang Lingling , Liu Yongli , Makinde Emmanuel Ayobami , Li Huilian , Olatunji Opeyemi Joshua
Published: July 2020

The current study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of 5,7-dihydroxy-6-oxoheptadecanoic acid (DHA) from Tiliacora triandra on rat models of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM was induced with a combination of high-fat diet/streptozotocin (HFD/STZ), and diabetic rats were treated with DHA (25 mg/kg) for 30 days. The body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum, and liver biochemical parameters, as well as histological evaluations of the liver and pancreas, were evaluated. Diabetic rats displayed a significant increase in FBG, serum lipid profiles (triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), liver function enzymes (aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine transaminase), creatinine, liver malondialdehyde (MDA), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) contents. Furthermore, insulin level and liver antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase [CAT], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px]) were significantly reduced in the diabetic rats. Whereas, treatment with DHA significantly reduced FBG, serum lipids, liver function enzymes, serum creatinine, liver MDA, and MPO contents. In addition, treatment with DHA significantly increased serum insulin level and liver SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activities. In addition, DHA alleviated histopathological changes in the pancreas and liver caused by T2DM. These results portray the antidiabetic and antioxidative properties of DHA and can be considered as a potential treatment for T2DM.
Urethral catheter trapped in the ureter removed using holmium laser: An unusual case and review of the literature
Authors: Sturgess George , Gill Jonathan
Published: July 2020

Inadvertent placement of a urethral catheter into the ureter is a rare but documented complication of catheterisation. Management becomes more challenging when the catheter cannot be removed using conservative techniques. We present the case of an 85-year-old male with a history of bladder cancer treated with intravesical Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) therapy who was found to have a urethral catheter stuck in his left ureter on computerized tomography scan after a routine catheter change. The catheter balloon was punctured using ureteroscopy and Holmium laser. Our literature review identified five other cases where a misguided urethral catheter required surgical intervention for removal from the ureter and the different techniques used are discussed. Risk factors appear to be pregnancy and structural changes to the bladder resulting in widened ureteric orifices including BCG therapy. We suggest that laser puncture of an inflated catheter balloon is a safe and effective method for facilitating removal.

Level of evidence:

4
Blood platelet RNA enables the detection of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sol Nik , Leurs Cyra E , Veld Sjors GJG In ’t , Strijbis Eva M , Vancura Adrienne , Schweiger Markus W , Teunissen Charlotte E , Mateen Farrah J , Tannous Bakhos A , Best Myron G , Würdinger Thomas , Killestein Joep
Published: July 2020

Background

In multiple sclerosis (MS), clinical assessment, MRI and cerebrospinal fluid are important in the diagnostic process. However, no blood biomarker has been confirmed as a useful tool in the diagnostic work-up.

Objectives

Blood platelets contain a rich spliced mRNA repertoire that can alter during megakaryocyte development but also during platelet formation and platelet circulation. In this proof of concept study, we evaluate the diagnostic potential of spliced blood platelet RNA for the detection of MS.

Methods

We isolated and sequenced platelet RNA of blood samples obtained from 57 MS patients and 66 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs). 60% was used to develop a particle swarm-optimized (PSO) support vector machine classification algorithm. The remaining 40% served as an independent validation series.

Results

In total, 1249 RNAs with differential spliced junction expression levels were identified between platelets of MS patients as compared to HCs, including EPSTI1, IFI6, and RPS6KA3, in line with reported inflammatory signatures in the blood of MS patients. The RNAs were subsequently used as input for a MS classifier, capable of detecting MS with 80% accuracy in the independent validation series.

Conclusions

Spliced platelet RNA may enable the blood-based diagnosis of MS, warranting large-scale validation.
Confronting puzzles in understanding Chinese family change: A personal reflection
Authors: Whyte Martin King
Published: July 2020

I present an overview of selected findings from four major research projects I conducted earlier in my career that were designed to describe and explain the patterns of continuity and change in family patterns in the People’s Republic of China: an examination of rural family patterns carried out through refugee interviewing in Hong Kong in 1972–1974; a parallel examination of urban family patterns carried out through Hong Kong refugee interviews in 1977–1978; an examination of the transformation from arranged to free-choice marriages conducted through a survey in Chengdu, Sichuan, in 1987; and an examination of patterns of intergenerational relationships carried out through a 1994 survey in Baoding, Hebei. The latter two projects included comparisons with the findings of earlier surveys of family behavior in urban Taiwan. Each project yielded findings that did not fit prevailing theories of family change, and in my efforts to explain puzzling findings, I ended up emphasizing the impact on families of the specific local institutions produced by China’s socialist transformation in the 1950s. Even though many of these institutional arrangements have been altered in the reform era, I argue that in certain realms of family life, the impact of pre-reform decades can still be seen in family patterns in recent times.
Motivational Differences Among Viewers of Traditional Sports, Esports, and NBA 2K League
Authors: Rogers Ryan , Farquhar Lee , Mummert Jacob
Published: July 2020

Although there have been significant strides in terms of understanding motivations for esports participation and consumption, there has been limited research done with regard to the consumption of specific games and titles within esports. Previous work has focused primarily on esports in general. This study extends the body of esports motivations research by examining motivations for consuming NBA 2K content. Based on the use of a quasi-experiment, results indicate that people consume a specific esport ( NBA 2K) for different motivations than esports generally. This suggests that esports should not be considered a monolithic concept.
Posteromedial versus direct posterior approach for posterior cruciate ligament avulsion – A comparative study
Authors: Prakash Jatin , Jaiman Ashish , Chopra Rajesh Kumar
Published: July 2020

Background/Purpose:

Open reduction of acute avulsion of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) fragment may be achieved through direct posterior approach or posteromedial approach. The aim of our study was to compare these two techniques for fixation of avulsed PCL fragment. Our primary study objective was to study that which of the above techniques provides a better screw placement on post-operative radiographs. The secondary objectives were to study any statistically significant differences in surgical time, blood loss, incidence of neurovascular injury, bone union and functional knee scores in the above two techniques.

Materials and methods:

This is a prospective, comparative, interventional, single tertiary referral centre-based study from November 2014 to May 2019. Patients in the direct posterior group were treated with the approach described by Abbott and Carpenter, and patients in the posteromedial group were treated with the approach described by Burks and Schaffer. Screw placement was assessed on anteroposterior (AP) and lateral knee X-rays. Blood loss was studied using haemoglobin balance method. Functional scores were recorded preoperatively and at 1-year follow up using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) knee scores.

Results:

The posterior group showed better screw placement angle compared to the posteromedial group. In the AP plane, the mean angle of screw placement and fracture line was 83° compared to 59° in the posteromedial group. Average fracture union time, post-operative range of motion and post-operative WOMAC scores were not statistically different in both groups. There were no cases of neurovascular complication, deep vein thrombosis and superficial or deep surgical site infection in any group.

Conclusion:

Direct posterior approach to PCL avulsion provides better screw placement angle compared to the posteromedial approach, which might result in better interfragmentary compression at the avulsion site. However, the two approaches did not differ statistically in terms of functional scores of patients reported at 1 year.
Suicide Prevention: An Issue of Social Justice
Authors: Westefeld John S.
Published: July 2020

The concept of social justice has assumed major significance in the human service professions, as suicide rates have increased. However, social justice remains a difficult concept to define. This article explores definitions of social justice, as well as the intersection of social justice and suicide prevention. A review of suicide prevention programs is presented, including both systemic prevention programs and individual prevention strategies. This evolves into a discussion concerning why suicide prevention is in fact a very significant social justice issue. Finally, implications for mental health professionals, including counseling psychologists, the profession that originated this journal, are examined, and suggestions for future issues of focus related to the intersection of suicide prevention and social justice are presented. To take a social justice approach to suicide prevention, it is suggested that an interdisciplinary structure be utilized to maximize political action.
Postdischarge venous thromboembolism following hospital admission with COVID-19
Authors: Roberts Lara N. , Whyte Martin B. , Georgiou Loizos , Giron Gerard , Czuprynska Julia , Rea Catherine , Vadher Bipin , Patel Raj K. , Gee Emma , Arya Roopen
Published: August 2020

The association of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) has resulted in specific guidelines for its prevention and management. The VTE risk appears highest in those with critical care admission. The need for postdischarge thromboprophylaxis remains controversial, which is reflected in conflicting expert guideline recommendations. Our local protocol provides thromboprophylaxis to COVID-19 patients during admission only. We report postdischarge VTE data from an ongoing quality improvement program incorporating root-cause analysis of hospital-associated VTE (HA-VTE). Following 1877 hospital discharges associated with COVID-19, 9 episodes of HA-VTE were diagnosed within 42 days, giving a postdischarge rate of 4.8 per 1000 discharges. Over 2019, following 18 159 discharges associated with a medical admission; there were 56 episodes of HA-VTE within 42 days (3.1 per 1000 discharges). The odds ratio for postdischarge HA-VTE associated with COVID-19 compared with 2019 was 1.6 (95% confidence interval, 0.77-3.1). COVID-19 hospitalization does not appear to increase the risk of postdischarge HA-VTE compared with hospitalization with other acute medical illness. Given that the risk-benefit ratio of postdischarge thromboprophylaxis remains uncertain, randomized controlled trials to evaluate the role of continuing thromboprophylaxis in COVID-19 patients following hospital discharge are required.
Scion genotypes exert long distance control over rootstock transcriptome responses to low phosphate in grafted grapevine
Authors: Gautier Antoine T. , Cochetel Noé , Merlin Isabelle , Hevin Cyril , Lauvergeat Virginie , Vivin Philippe , Mollier Alain , Ollat Nathalie , Cookson Sarah J.
Published: August 2020

Background

Grafting is widely used in horticulture and rootstocks are known to modify scion growth and adaptation to soil conditions. However, the role of scion genotype in regulating rootstock development and functioning has remained largely unexplored. In this study, reciprocal grafts of two grapevine genotypes were produced as well as the corresponding homo-graft controls. These plants were subjected to a low phosphate (LP) treatment and transcriptome profiling by RNA sequencing was done on root samples collected 27 h after the onset of the LP treatment.

Results

A set of transcripts responsive to the LP treatment in all scion/rootstock combinations was identified. Gene expression patterns associated with genetic variation in response to LP were identified by comparing the response of the two homo-grafts. In addition, the scion was shown to modify root transcriptome responses to LP in a rootstock dependent manner. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified modules of correlated genes; the analysis of the association of these modules with the phosphate treatment, and the scion and rootstock genotype identified potential hub genes.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into the response of grafted grapevine to phosphate supply and identifies potential shoot-to-root signals that could vary between different grapevine genotypes.
The efficacy and safety of intrathecal dexmedetomidine for parturients undergoing cesarean section: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Xiao-xiao , Li Yu-mei , Lv Xue-li , Wang Xing-he , Liu Su
Published: August 2020

Background

The efficacy and safety of spinal anesthesia by intrathecal dexmedetomidine (DEX) for parturients undergoing cesarean section are still lack of evidence. This aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrathecal DEX for parturients undergoing cesarean section to provide more data evidence for intrathecal applications.

Methods

Three hundred parturients undergoing cesarean section under spinal anesthesia were randomly assigned into three groups: group B: 9.0 mg (1.2 ml) of 0.75% bupivacaine with saline (1 ml); group FB: 9.0 mg (1.2 ml) of 0.75% bupivacaine with 20 μg of fentanyl (1 ml); group DB: 9.0 mg (1.2 ml) of 0.75% bupivacaine with 5 μg of DEX (1 ml). Intraoperative block characteristics, parturients’ postoperative quality of recovery, maternal and neonatal outcomes and the plasma concentration of DEX were measured. All parturients were followed up for 30 days to determine whether nerve injury occurred.

Results

Compared with group B, the duration of sensory block in group FB and group DB were significantly prolonged (108.4 min [95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 104.6–112.3] in group B, and 122.0 min [95% CI = 116.8–127.3] in group FB, 148.2 min [95% CI = 145.3–151.1] in group DB). The overall score of quality recovery in group DB (71.6 [95% CI = 71.0–72.2]) was significantly higher than that in group FB (61.5 [95% CI = 60.8–62.2]) and group B (61.7 [95% CI = 61.0–62.4]). There was no statistically significant difference among the three groups for PH, PaO2, and PaCO2 of newborn. The plasma concentration of DEX in umbilical artery and umbilical vein was low and cannot be detected. The 30-days follow-up of parturients did not show any new onset of back, buttock or leg pain or paresthesia.

Conclusions

DEX is a potential local anesthetic adjuvant that the intrathecal combination of 5 μg DEX can safely exhibit a facilitatory block effect and improve parturients’ recovery quality.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration number # ChiCTR1900022019; Date of Registration on March 20th, 2019).
Cardiorenal syndrome in thalassemia patients
Authors: Makmettakul Sorasak , Tantiworawit Adisak , Phrommintikul Arintaya , Piriyakhuntorn Pokpong , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Hantrakool Sasinee , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Norasetthada Lalita , Fanhchaksai Kanda , Charoenkwan Pimlak , Lekawanvijit Suree
Published: August 2020

Background

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS), a serious condition with high morbidity and mortality, is characterized by the coexistence of cardiac abnormality and renal dysfunction. There is limited information about CRS in association thalassemia. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of CRS in thalassemia patients and also associated risk factors.

Methods

Thalassemia patients who attended the out-patient clinic of a tertiary care university hospital from October 2016 to September 2017 were enrolled onto this cross-sectional study. Clinical and laboratory findings from 2 consecutive visits, 3 months apart, were assessed. The criteria for diagnosis of CRS was based on a system proposed by Ronco and McCullough. Cardiac abnormalities are assessed by clinical presentation, establishment of acute or chronic heart failure using definitions from 2016 ESC guidelines or from structural abnormalities shown in an echocardiogram. Renal dysfunction was defined as chronic kidney disease according to the 2012 KDIGO guidelines.

Results

Out of 90 thalassemia patients, 25 (27.8%) had CRS. The multivariable analysis showed a significant association between CRS and extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) (odds ratio (OR) 20.55, p = 0.016); thalassemia type [β0/βE vs β0/β0 thalassemia (OR 0.005, p = 0.002)]; pulmonary hypertension (OR 178.1, p = 0.001); elevated serum NT-proBNP (OR 1.028, p = 0.022), and elevated 24-h urine magnesium (OR 1.913, p = 0.016). There was no association found between CRS and frequency of blood transfusion, serum ferritin, liver iron concentration, cardiac T2*, type of iron chelating agents, or urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin level.

Conclusions

CRS is relatively common in thalassemia patients. Its occurrence is associated with laboratory parameters which are easily measured in clinical practice.
Technology-enabled activation of skin cancer screening for hematopoietic cell transplantation survivors and their primary care providers (TEACH)
Authors: Armenian Saro H. , Lindenfeld Lanie , Iukuridze Aleksi , Echevarria Meagan , Bebel Samantha , Coleman Catherine , Nakamura Ryotaro , Abdullah Farah , Modi Badri , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Emmons Karen M. , Marghoob Ashfaq A. , Geller Alan C.
Published: August 2020

Background

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a curative option for a growing number of patients with hematologic diseases and malignancies. However, HCT-related factors, such as total body irradiation used for conditioning, graft-versus-host disease, and prolonged exposure to immunosuppressive therapy, result in very high risk for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). In fact, skin cancer is the most common subsequent neoplasm in HCT survivors, tending to develop at a time when survivors’ follow-up care has largely transitioned to the primary care setting. The goal of this study is to increase skin cancer screening rates among HCT survivors through patient-directed activation alone or in combination with physician-directed activation. The proposed intervention will identify facilitators of and barriers to risk-based screening in this population and help reduce the burden of cancer-related morbidity after HCT.

Methods/design

720 HCT survivors will be enrolled in this 12-month randomized controlled trial. This study uses a comparative effectiveness design comparing (1)patient activation and education(PAE,N = 360) including text messaging and print materials to encourage and motivate skin examinations; (2)PAE plus primary care physician activation(PAE + Phys, N = 360) adding print materials for the physician on the HCT survivors’ increased risk of skin cancer and importance of conducting a full-body skin exam. Patients on the PAE + Phys arm will be further randomized 1:1 to theteledermoscopy(PAE + Phys+TD) adding physician receipt of a portable dermatoscope to upload images of suspect lesions for review by the study dermatologist and an online course with descriptions of dermoscopic images for skin cancers.

Discussion

When completed, this study will provide much-needed information regarding strategies to improve skin cancer detection in other high-risk (e.g. radiation-exposed) cancer survivor populations, and to facilitate screening and management of other late effects (e.g. cardiovascular, endocrine) in HCT survivors.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04358276. Registered 24 April 2020.