bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Judicialização da saúde e pandemia de covid-19: novos desafios para os sistemas de saúde e de justiça
Authors: Juliano Iraildes Andrade , Simões Aliana Ferreira de Souza , Souza Luis Eugênio Portela Fernandes de
Published: April 2022

A pandemia de covid-19, doença causada pelo novo coronavírus (Sars-CoV-2), tem posto sob forte pressão os sistemas de saúde de diversos países. No Brasil, essa pressão atinge um sistema que já padecia de deficiências graves – acentuadas pelas políticas de austeridade fiscal desde 2016 – de limitada capacidade de resposta às demandas, principalmente das populações em maior vulnerabilidade. A pandemia torna mais agudas as carências de profissionais de saúde, de equipamentos de proteção individual, de leitos de UTI, de respiradores mecânicos e de outros insumos. O Judiciário começa a ser provocado por ações relacionadas à pandemia. Os objetivos deste artigo, portanto, foram descrever as demandas judiciais relativas à saúde, entre fevereiro e abril de 2020, início da pandemia no Brasil, e analisar suas repercussões nos sistemas de justiça e de saúde. Tratou-se de estudo descritivo, a partir de dados coletados junto aos tribunais de justiça estaduais e regionais federais e ao Conselho Nacional de Justiça e do Superior Tribunal Federal. Até 30 de abril de 2020, 129 ações judiciais relacionadas à covid-19 tinham sido iniciadas no país, com o objeto mais frequente de acesso a leitos de unidade de terapia intensiva. Além da escassez de leitos de unidades de terapia intensiva, a discussão acerca do uso de cloroquina pode ter contribuído para o aumento do número de ações judiciais relativas à saúde. O Poder Judiciário vem adotando medidas organizativas específicas para enfrentar a situação. O sistema de saúde, ao contrário, não tem se preparado para um aumento de demandas judiciais.
Evaluating the Coronary Artery Disease Consortium Model and the Coronary Artery Calcium Score in Predicting Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease in a Symptomatic Mixed Asian Cohort
Authors: Baskaran Lohendran , Neo Yu Pei , Lee Jing Kai , Yoon Yeonyee Elizabeth , Jiang Yilin , Al’Aref Subhi J. , van Rosendael Alexander R. , Han Donghee , Lin Fay Y. , Nakanishi Rine , Maurovich Horvat Pál , Tan Swee Yaw , Villines Todd C. , Bittencourt Marcio S. , Shaw Leslee J.
Published: April 2022

Background

The utility of a given pretest probability score in predicting obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) is population dependent. Previous studies investigating the additive value of coronary artery calcium (CAC) on pretest probability scores were predominantly limited to Western populations. This retrospective study seeks to evaluate the CAD Consortium (CAD2) model in a mixed Asian cohort within Singapore with stable chest pain and to evaluate the incremental value of CAC in predicting obstructive CAD.

Methods and Results

Patients who underwent cardiac computed tomography and had chest pain were included. The CAD2 clinical model comprised of age, sex, symptom typicality, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and smoking status and was compared with the CAD2 extended model that added CAC to assess the incremental value of CAC scoring, as well as to the corresponding locally calibrated local assessment of the heart models. A total of 522 patients were analyzed (mean age 54±11 years, 43.1% female). The CAD2 clinical model obtained an area under the curve of 0.718 (95% CI, 0.668–0.767). The inclusion of CAC score improved the area under the curve to 0.896 (95% CI, 0.867–0.925) in the CAD2 models and from 0.767 (95% CI, 0.721–0.814) to 0.926 (95% CI, 0.900–0.951) in the local assessment of the heart models. The locally calibrated local assessment of the heart models showed better discriminative performance than the corresponding CAD2 models (
P
<0.05 for all).

Conclusions

The CAD2 model was validated in a symptomatic mixed Asian cohort and local calibration further improved performance. CAC scoring provided significant incremental value in predicting obstructive CAD.
Contextualizing National Policies Regulating Access to Low‐Dose Aspirin in America and Europe Using the Full Report of a Transatlantic Patient Survey of Aspirin in Preventive Cardiology
Authors: Jacobsen Alan P. , Lim Zi Lun , Chang Blair , Lambeth Kaleb D. , Das Thomas M. , Gorry Colin , McCague Michael , Sharif Faisal , Mylotte Darren , Wijns William , Serruys Patrick W. J .C. , Blumenthal Roger S. , Martin Seth S. , McEvoy John W.
Published: April 2022

Background

Aspirin is widely administered to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, appropriate use of aspirin depends on patient understanding of its risks, benefits, and indications, especially where aspirin is available over the counter (OTC).

Methods and Results

We did a survey of patient‐reported 10‐year cardiovascular risk; aspirin therapy status; form of aspirin access (OTC versus prescription); and knowledge of the risks, benefits, and role of aspirin in CVD prevention. Consecutive adults aged ≥50 years with ≥1 cardiovascular risk factor attending outpatient clinics in America and Europe were recruited. We also systematically reviewed national policies regulating access to low‐dose aspirin for CVD prevention. At each site, 150 responses were obtained (300 total). Mean±SD age was 65±10 years, 40% were women, and 41% were secondary prevention patients. More than half of the participants at both sites did not know (1) their own level of 10‐year CVD risk, (2) the expected magnitude of reduction in CVD risk with aspirin, or (3) aspirin’s bleeding risks. Only 62% of all participants reported that aspirin was routinely indicated for secondary prevention, whereas 47% believed it was routinely indicated for primary prevention (
P
=0.048). In America, 83.5% participants obtained aspirin OTC compared with 2.5% in Europe (
P
<0.001). Finally, our review of European national policies found only 2 countries where low‐dose aspirin was available OTC.

Conclusions

Many patients have poor insight into their objectively calculated 10‐year cardiovascular risk and do not know the risks, benefits, and role of aspirin in CVD prevention. Aspirin is mainly obtained OTC in America in contrast to Europe, where most countries restrict access to low‐dose aspirin.
Financial Incentives for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Ontario, Canada: A Cost‐Utility Analysis
Authors: Peel John K. , Neves Miranda Rafael , Naimark David , Woodward Graham , Mamas Mamas A. , Madan Mina , Wijeysundera Harindra C.
Published: April 2022

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive therapy for patients with severe aortic stenosis, which has become standard of care. The objective of this study was to determine the maximum cost‐effective investment in TAVI care that should be made at a health system level to meet quality indicator goals.

Methods and Results

We performed a cost‐utility analysis using probabilistic patient‐level simulation of TAVI care from the Ontario, Canada, Ministry of Health perspective. Costs and health utilities were accrued over a 2‐year time horizon. We created 4 hypothetical strategies that represented TAVI care meeting ≥1 quality indicator targets, (1) reduced wait times, (2) reduced hospital length of stay, (3) reduced pacemaker use, and (4) combined strategy, and compared these with current TAVI care. Per‐person costs, quality‐adjusted life years, and clinical outcomes were estimated by the model. Using these, incremental net monetary benefits were calculated for each strategy at different cost‐effectiveness thresholds between $0 and $100 000 per quality‐adjusted life year. Clinical improvements over the current practice were estimated with all comparator strategies. In Ontario, achieving quality indicator benchmarks could avoid ≈26 wait‐list deaths and 200 wait‐list hospitalizations annually. Compared with current TAVI care, the incremental net monetary benefit for this strategy varied from $10 765 (±$8721) and $17 221 (±$8977). This would translate to an annual investment of between ≈$14 to ≈$22 million by the Ontario Ministry of Health to incentivize these performance measures being cost‐effective.

Conclusions

This study has quantified the modest annual investment required and substantial clinical benefit of meeting improvement goals in TAVI care.
Angiotensin II Induces Aortic Rupture and Dissection in Osteoprotegerin‐Deficient Mice
Authors: Tsuruda Toshihiro , Yamashita Atsushi , Otsu Misa , Koide Masanori , Nakamichi Yuko , Sekita‐Hatakeyama Yoko , Hatakeyama Kinta , Funamoto Taro , Chosa Etsuo , Asada Yujiro , Udagawa Nobuyuki , Kato Johji , Kitamura Kazuo
Published: April 2022

Background

The biological mechanism of action for osteoprotegerin, a soluble decoy receptor for the receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand in the vascular structure, has not been elucidated. The study aim was to determine if osteoprotegerin affects aortic structural integrity in angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced hypertension.

Methods and Results

Mortality was higher (
P
<0.0001 by log‐rank test) in 8‐week‐old male homozygotes of osteoprotegerin gene‐knockout mice given subcutaneous administration of Ang II for 28 days, with an incidence of 21% fatal aortic rupture and 23% aortic dissection, than in age‐matched wild‐type mice. Ang II‐infused aorta of wild‐type mice showed that osteoprotegerin immunoreactivity was present with proteoglycan. The absence of osteoprotegerin was associated with decreased medial and adventitial thickness and increased numbers of elastin breaks as well as with increased periostin expression and soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand concentrations. PEGylated human recombinant osteoprotegerin administration decreased all‐cause mortality (
P
<0.001 by log‐rank test), the incidence of fatal aortic rupture (
P
=0.08), and aortic dissection (
P
<0.001) with decreasing numbers of elastin breaks, periostin expressions, and soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand concentrations in Ang II‐infused osteoprotegerin gene‐knockout mice.

Conclusions

These data suggest that osteoprotegerin protects against aortic rupture and dissection in Ang II‐induced hypertension by inhibiting receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand activity and periostin expression.
A new species of Acentrella Bengtsson, 1912 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) from Thailand
Authors: TUNGPAIROJWONG NISARAT , PHLAI-NGAM SIRIKAMON , JACOBUS LUKE M.
Published: April 2022

Following a series of biodiversity surveys conducted in Thailand, Acentrella fimbriata sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on the nymph, male subimago and egg stages. Our new species can be distinguished from other Acentrella species by the following combination of characteristics in the nymphal stage: a head capsule relatively densely covered with long, fine, simple setae, increasing in number on the genae and clypeus; the scape and pedicel densely covered with long, fine, simple setae along the inner margins; femoral margins with dense, irregular rows of long, simple setae; terga lateral margins with numerous fine, simple setae, increasing in number posteriorly; terga posterior margins with poorly-developed denticles, and with scattered ovoid and truncated translucent scales, increasing in number laterally; and gills on segments II–VII with abundant long, fine, simple setae apically. This species prefers cobble substrates in shallow and slow-moving water, where it is found covered with sediment. Extensive new reports of Acentrella (Liebebiella) vera (Müller-Liebenau, 1982) are given that show it to be a species widespread in Thailand and that provide basis for comparisons to our new species. Global systematics of Acentrella Bengtsson, 1912 are discussed.
The genus Odontothrips in Iran with two new species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: ALAVI JALIL , MINAEI KAMBIZ
Published: April 2022

Host-plant associations among the 38 species of Odontothrips Amyot & Serville, and features of various structural characters in this genus, are discussed. An illustrated key to 9 species occurring in Iran is provided. Two new species are described from Iran based on specimens on flowers of various Fabaceae. O. bezii sp. n. is close to O. mongolicus Pelikan, and O. pitkini sp. n. is considered as the second species in the genus that has a tooth on the distal inner side of antennal segment II.
Taxonomic notes on some South and Southeast Asian members of the genus Rhene Thorell, 1869 (Aranei, Salticidae, Dendryphantini)
Authors: CALEB JOHN T.D. , SANAP RAJESH V. , TRIPATHI RISHIKESH , SAMPATHKUMAR M. , DHARMARAJ JAYARAMAN , PACKIAM SOOSAIMANICKAM MARIA
Published: April 2022

The type materials of seven Indian Rhene species available at the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata, have been studied. R. mus (Simon, 1889) is illustrated for the first time in 132 years since its first description. Eleven new synonyms and five new combinations are proposed: Zeuxippus Thorell, 1891 syn. n. with Rhene Thorell, 1869; R. biembolusa Song & Chai, 1991 syn. n. with R. flavicomans Simon, 1902; R. haldanei Gajbe, 2004 syn. n. with Bianor angulosus (Karsch, 1879); R. decorata Tikader, 1977 syn. n. and R. pantharae Biswas & Biswas, 1992 syn. n. with R. pallida (Thorell, 1895) comb. n.; R. citri (Sadana, 1991) syn. n., R. danieli Tikader, 1973 syn. n., R. indica Tikader, 1973 syn. n., R. khandalaensis Tikader, 1977 syn. n. and R. sanghrakshiti Gajbe, 2004 syn. n., with R. flavigera (C.L. Koch, 1846); Rhenefictus tropicus Logunov, 2021 syn. n. with Rhenefictus wandae (Wang & Li, 2021) comb. n. (ex. Rhene), Rhene atellana (Thorell, 1895) comb. n., Rhene histrio (Thorell, 1891) comb. n., Rhene pallida (Thorell, 1895) comb. n., and Rhene yunnanensis (Peng & Xie, 1995) comb. n. (all ex. Zeuxippus). Detailed digital illustrations and distributional maps are also provided.
“HYPER-EARLY” Tracheostomy within 48 hours has less Complications and Better Prognosis Compared to Traditional Tracheostomy
Authors: Nahar Tanzilan , Roberts Andrew , Brigode William , Siddiqi Mahwash , Capron Gweniviere , Starr Frederic , Bokhari Faran
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Tracheostomies may be performed “early” or “late.” There is no agreement on the best timing for tracheostomy. This study compares tracheostomies and complications when performed within 48 hours with those performed from 48 hours to 21 days.

Methods

Patients who underwent tracheostomy in the 2017-2018 National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) were categorized into 2 groups: early tracheostomy (≤48 hours) and late tracheostomy (>48 hours to 21 days). Primary outcome measured was mortality. Chi square models, Mann-Whitney U Test, and multivariate logistics were used for data analysis.

Results

843 patients had tracheostomy performed, of which 16% underwent early tracheostomy. Majority were male in both early (84%) and late (74%) tracheostomy groups. Mortality was not statically significant in early (13%) or late (9%) ( P = .151). Total duration of ventilation in early tracheostomy group was less (5 days) compared to late tracheostomy group (16 days, P < .001). Patients with late tracheostomy had almost 18% cases of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) when compared to early tracheostomy patients (7%, P < .001). Early tracheostomy patients also had shorter hospital length of stay (HLOS) (13 vs 27 days) and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) (7 vs 20 days) than late tracheostomy patients ( P<.001). Early tracheostomy patients also had shorter hospital length of stay (HLOS) (13 vs 27 days) and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) (7 vs 20 days) than late tracheostomy patients ( P < .001).

Conclusion

Tracheostomy performed as early as 48 hours is beneficial as it demonstrates a decrease time on ventilator, decreased HLOS, as well as lower VAP rates. Our data shows “hyper-early” tracheostomies might be more beneficial that the current national practice.
The silence of Laing and its echo in Szasz’s essay on antipsychiatry
Authors: Balbuena Francisco
Published: April 2022

Background:

As has been evaluated in a previous paper, Thomas S. Szasz redoubled his attacks against R. D. Laing in a series of articles which were published in The New Review (TNR) during the 1970s. Laing, however, consciously decided not reply to Szasz, a task taken up instead by Leon Redler on behalf of the Philadelphia Association (PA).

Aims/objective:

The main purpose of this paper is to shed light on the motives which led to Laing to decline to take part in TNR debate. Secondly, I evaluate the impact this had on the writing of Szasz in his widely read book, Antipsychiatry. Quackery squared, published in 2009.

Methods:

In order to gain a balanced perspective of the issues involved, I review all oral and written sources which I have been able to locate, including correspondence with mental health professionals who met Laing and Szasz in person.

Results and conclusions:

My conclusion is that Laing and members of PA would have preferred for Szasz to meet Laing in person to discuss antipsychiatry. However, Szasz opted not to see Laing personally when he traveled to London, whilst Laing decided not to reply to Szasz’s harsh criticisms either in public or in print. As a result, the debate on antipsychiatry was brought to an unsatisfactory close, only to be reopened by Szasz in his book on antipsychiatry, published long after Laing’s death (1989), and hence requiring others to respond in his memory.
Shared Principles? German Responses to American Bioethics Since the 1970s
Authors: Schütz Mathias
Published: April 2022

Since its inception in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the academic discipline of bioethics has profoundly shaped the professional and public assessments of biomedicine. A universalistic approach preferred by American bioethicists and challenges posed by modern biomedicine created a transatlantic moment for ethical theories and practices. This article will discuss the transfer of bioethical knowledge from the United States to (West) Germany and highlight its immediate reception, its slow adaptation, and its belated implementation at universities, in society, and in the medical profession. Examples from academia, policy and law will provide a narrative focus for explaining the peculiar relationship between institutional ambitions, universalistic theoretical claims, and local professional routines and adjustments. In particular, the article contrasts a general openness towards ethical concepts and practices with the comparably reluctance in adopting American bioethics as it was perceived in Germany, which effectively delayed the implementation of ethics in German medicine for decades. The German responses to American bioethics provide a topical example for boundary work on an international level.
Odontogenic Differentiation Induced by TGF-β1 Binding Peptide–Modified Bioglass
Authors: Wu J. , Mao S. , Xu L. , Qiu D. , Wang S. , Dong Y.
Published: April 2022

Emerging evidence suggests that growth factors are crucial in regenerative endodontic therapy. To achieve the desired effects, the systematic administration of supraphysiologic concentrations of exogenous growth factors is commonly performed, but this is usually associated with high costs, technique, and safety issues. Here, we describe a novel biomaterial that can manipulate endogenous growth factors without the need for adding exogenous growth factors. Transforming growth factor β1 binding peptide (TGFp) was grafted onto the surface of a neutral pH phytic acid–derived bioactive glass (PSC) to synthesize modified bioactive glass (PSC-TGFp). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis results demonstrated that the TGFp was successfully grafted to the surface of the PSC. Scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction showed that PSC-TGFp possessed good in vitro bioactivity. After soaking in simulated body fluid for 24 h, hydroxyapatite formed on the surface of PSC-TGFp. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that PSC-TGFp could capture endogenous transforming growth factor β1 from dentin matrix–extracted proteins (DMEP) and release it slowly over 21 d. Cytologic experiments revealed that PSC-TGFp after adsorbing DMEP could enhance the adhesion, migration, viability, and odontogenic differentiation of stem cells from apical papilla. The results highlight that PSC-TGFp may be a promising biomaterial to manipulate endogenous growth factors for regenerative endodontic therapy in the future.
Rabies-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Primary School Students in Chonburi Province, Thailand
Authors: Laorujisawat Mayurin , Wattanaburanon Aimutcha , Abdullakasim Pajaree , Maharachpong Nipa
Published: April 2022

In Thailand, rabies is an endemic fatal viral zoonosis where 40% of those infected are under age 15. The aim of this rabies KAP study (Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices) is to examine preventive behaviors. A multistage sampling technique was employed for selecting the sample. Of 290 primary school students, 52.1% of them had poor knowledge, 89% had favorable attitudes, and 52.1% exercised proper preventive behaviors. We employed structural equation modeling to verify the systemic relationships and found rabies knowledge (β = .157, se=.059, P = .008) and attitude (β = .206 se=.054, P < .001) were associated with rabies preventive behaviors. Moreover, children in school No.4 statistically had less adept at rabies prevention than others. (β = – .232, se=.054, P < .001). This study highlights the need to strengthen rabies education programs, especially for rabies risk situations among school-aged children.
Socioeconomic inequality, waiting time initiatives and austerity in Scotland: an interrupted time series analysis of elective hip and knee replacements and arthroscopies
Authors: Kirkwood Graham , Pollock Allyson M
Published: April 2022

Objectives

National Health Service (NHS) waiting times have long been a political priority in Scotland. In 2002, the Scottish government launched a programme of investment and reform to reduce waiting times. The effect on waiting time inequality is unknown as is the impact of subsequent austerity measures.

Design

An interrupted time series analysis between the most and least socioeconomically deprived population quintiles since the introduction of waiting time initiative 1 July 2002 and austerity measures 1 April 2010.

Setting

All NHS-funded elective primary hip replacement, primary knee replacement and arthroscopy patient data in Scotland from 1 April 1997 to 31 March 2019.

Participants

NHS Scotland funded patients treated in Scotland.

Main outcome measures

Trends and changes in mean waiting time.

Results

There were 135,176, 122,883 and 173,976 NHS funded hip replacement, knee replacement and arthroscopy patients, respectively, in Scotland between 1 April 1997 and 31 March 2019. From 1 July 2002 to 31 March 2010, waiting time inequality between the most and least deprived patients fell and increased thereafter. For hip replacements before 1 July 2002, waiting time inequality increased 1.07 days per quarter; this changed at 1 July 2002 with significant slope change of −2.32 (−3.53, −1.12) days resulting in a decreasing rate of inequality of −1.26 days per quarter. On 1 April 2010 the slope changed significantly by 1.84 (0.90, 2.78) days restoring increasing inequality at 0.58 days per quarter. Knee replacements and arthroscopies had similar results.

Conclusions

The waiting time initiative in Scotland is associated with a reduction in waiting time inequality benefiting the most socioeconomically deprived patients. Austerity measures may be reversing these gains.
Feedback error learning neural network for stable control of nonlinear nonaffine systems
Authors: Asgari Masoud , Asgari Mersad
Published: April 2022

This study presents a stable feedback error learning (FEL) scheme for nonlinear nonaffine systems in the presence of uncertainty and disturbances. The distinguishing feature of the FEL method, which can have a significant effect on both transient and steady-state performance, has led us to adopt this approach. The nonlinear system studied here is nonaffine. In other words, the function that describes the dynamic equations of the system is an implicit function of the control input rather than a particular class of systems. We aim to develop a stable FEL control system with three components: a neural network (NN), a linear controller, and a robustifying control term. To this end, all the adaptation laws for the NN weights are derived from a Lyapunov function, ensuring that the closed-loop system is uniformly asymptotically stable (UAS). Thus, an NN learning control approach that effectively improves the transient performance, as well as the steady-state performance, is proposed, and its remarkable effectiveness is illustrated in comparison with the existing methods.
Multi-objective parametric design of PI/PID controllers via multi-level game-theoretic optimization for systems with time delay
Authors: Ashraf Talesh SH , Nariman-zadeh N , Jamali A
Published: April 2022

In this research study, a new methodology of multi-objective optimal design is presented for control systems with time delay. Stackelberg method as an approach of game theory is implemented to develop the multi-objective optimization of proportional–integral (PI) and proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controllers. The surface area of control effort and tracking error are put in order of precedence together as the more important conflicting objective functions of the players in Stackelberg game design. Besides, the desirability of other effective criteria including frequency and time domains are measured as constraints in the procedure of the game-theoretic design. The main purpose of the proposed method is to optimally set and formulate controller parameters in the Stackelberg game-control system (SG-CS) design. Mapping the leader’s variables into the optimized values of the follower’s variables obtained via differential evolution (DE), the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated in constructing a simple and explicit approximate model for rational reaction sets (RRSs). These obtained optimal models for the RRS allow the user to access the set of optimal controller parameters in the entire accessible strategic space of design variables in a formulated form. Utilizing the optimal synthesis for two case studies is validated the superiority of SG-CS design in establishing the explicit relationship between the controller’s parameters.
Event-triggered adaptive backstepping admittance control for cooperative manipulation
Authors: Abbas Mohamed , Dwivedy Santosha K
Published: April 2022

This paper proposes an adaptive control strategy for multiple uncertain manipulators handling an object cooperatively in the presence of environmental forces and limited communication. To address the same, external and internal admittance models are imposed between the object/environment and manipulators/object to limit the excess interaction and internal forces. Thereafter, an adaptive backstepping approach is dedicated to follow the admittance-generated trajectory and deal with the dynamic uncertainties of the manipulators. Based on the Lyapunov analysis, an event-triggered (ET) mechanism is further designed to alleviate the controller-to-robot communication burden and preserve the system stability in the cooperative task. The performance of the proposed controller is compared with two admittance-based control strategies while manipulating the object through circular and lemniscate trajectories. The well-known triggering conditions, fixed and relative thresholds, are utilized further to investigate the effectiveness of the designed triggering condition. The obtained results prove the superiority of the proposed controller over the different time-triggered and even-triggered control strategies.
Asymptomatic Chondrosarcoma of the Skull base: A Case Report
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhao Yang , Tian Xu , Gao Zhiqiang , Feng Guodong
Published: April 2022

Chondrosarcoma of the skull base is a malignant tumor of cartilage origin. Clinical manifestations are nonspecific, early can be asymptomatic. We report a case of asymptomatic chondrosarcoma of the skull base which is difficult to confirm the diagnosis. The patient underwent Type A resection of chondrosarcoma of the skull base through the left subtemporal fossa approach, with postoperative radiotherapy. And the patient achieved good postoperative recovery. Therefore, chondrosarcoma of the skull base is a rare malignant tumor with slow growth. Early detection, excision, and postoperative radiotherapy can achieve a good therapeutic effect.
The Social Representations of Gifted Children in Childhood Professionals and the General Adult Population in France
Authors: Sanchez Christine , Brigaud Emmanuelle , Moliner Pascal , Blanc Nathalie
Published: April 2022

This study explored the Social Representations (SRs) of Gifted Children in France, both in the general adult population and in different childhood professionals’s populations (i.e., primary school teachers, secondary school teachers, and psychologists). Two binary SRs emerged from the data obtained from 608 participants. In the general population, the SR is “performative” and less diversified: gifted children were chiefly associated with exceptional intelligence. The “personological” SR of professionals indicated social, emotional, and behavioral characteristics. Few nuances distinguish the SRs of teachers from that of psychologists. This study highlights the need to better informed the general population and to better trained teachers and psychologists, to move towards a less stereotyped SR, congruent with the proven characteristics of gifted children.
Mapping violence onto the body of the ‘other’ in Julie Taymor's Titus (1999)
Authors: Galland Nora
Published: April 2022

In Julie Taymor's film Titus (1999), which adapts Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus, the Roman nation is both violated and violent. Taymor exposes the audience to different kinds of violence – intrafamilial, political, sexual, as well as revenge, infanticide, and racism – all of which are mapped onto characters who are othered by race, ethnicity, gender, or posthumous banishment. This article aims at exploring the relationship between othering and violence in the construction of nationhood. The one who others, the author contends, is also othered, because of the cycle of violence at stake in the film.
Transnational Social Stratification? Legal Status of Immigrant Parents and the Educational Achievements of Mexican Children
Authors: Waldman Kyle E.
Published: April 2022

Although there is evidence documenting the impacts of Mexican parents’ migration to the United States on the educational attainment of the children they leave behind, the potential role of parents’ legal status in stratifying their children's educational achievement is poorly understood. Using data from the Mexican Migration Project, I estimate the educational effects of parents’ documentation status for the children left behind in Mexico. I utilize coarsened exact matching and entropy balancing, alongside community fixed effects, in a counterfactual regression framework to address the endogeneity of parental migration decisions. I find that parental migration's effectiveness as a mechanism for securing educational gains among children left in Mexico differs by parents’ legal status. Documentation allows migrant parents to translate their experiences in the United States into relatively greater educational achievement for their children in Mexico. In the post-1986 period, the non-immigrant children of undocumented parents experienced a significant education penalty. These findings elucidate the effect of US immigration policy on social stratification in Mexican society.
French and scottish probation during the first lockdown. In search of the heart and soul of probation
Authors: Herzog-Evans Martine , Sturgeon John
Published: April 2022

In March 2020 in response to the global pandemic, countries across Europe ordered businesses and offices to close and their citizens to stay at home. This paper is part of a wider investigation, which explores what happened to probation services in France and in Scotland during this time of national emergency. Qualitative interviews with 29 French and 27 Scottish probation staff took place during the initial lockdown, the authors wishing to capture the personal and organisational experience of practising probation at this unprecedented time. In this paper, the authors explore how probation staff in both countries responded to the news of the lockdown and how they adapted to working in these fundamentally altered circumstances. The paper explores what took place and therefore what is left of probation when the vast majority of what it usually entails becomes no longer possible. The study reveals similarities between the countries in how as human beings, probation staff responded to the pandemic and the imposition of the lockdown; it also uncovers differences in the practice that emerged, these differences reflecting the different historical roots of the two services and differences in the way that they are structured.
Probation and COVID-19: Lessons learned to improve health-related practice
Authors: Sirdfield Coral , Nichols Helen , Mullen Philip
Published: April 2022

Probation staff perform a health-related role involving identifying health-related drivers of offending behaviour; facilitating access to support for these, including continuity of care for people leaving prison; and advising the courts on appropriate sentencing. This study analyses data from probation staff surveys and interviews with people that were under probation supervision during the pandemic to investigate the impact of the response to the pandemic on a) this health-related role, b) the lived experience of accessing health support whilst engaging with probation, and c) partnership working and pathways into healthcare for people under probation supervision.
Relaxation and related therapies for people with multiple sclerosis (MS): A systematic review
Authors: Kneebone Ian I. , Van Zanden Brooke E. , Dorstyn Diana S. , Roberts Rachel M. , Lord Stephen R. , Querstret Dawn , Theadom Alice , Kennedy David S. , Raman Jay , Nair Roshan das
Published: April 2022

Objective

To establish the effectiveness of relaxation and related therapies in treating Multiple Sclerosis related symptoms and sequelae.

Data Sources

PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global databases were searched.

Methods

We included studies from database inception until 31 December 2021 involving adult participants diagnosed with multiple sclerosis or disseminated sclerosis, which featured quantitative data regarding the impact of relaxation interventions on multiple sclerosis-related symptoms and sequelae. Studies which examined multi-modal therapies - relaxation delivered in combination with non-relaxation interventions - were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Risk of Bias tool for randomised trials – ROB2, Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions ROBINS-I), and within and between-group effects were calculated (Hedges’ g).

Results

Twenty-eight studies met inclusion criteria. Twenty-three of these were randomised controlled trials, with 1246 total participants. This review reports on this data, with non-randomised study data reported in supplemental material. Post –intervention relaxation was associated with medium to large effect-size improvement for depression, anxiety, stress and fatigue. The effects of relaxation were superior to wait-list or no treatment control conditions; however, comparisons with established psychological or physical therapies were mixed. Individual studies reported sustained effects (≤ 6 months) with relaxation for stress, pain and quality of life. Most studies were rated as having a high/serious risk of bias.

Conclusion

There is emerging evidence that relaxation therapies can improve outcomes for persons with multiple sclerosis. Given the high risk of bias found for included studies, stronger conclusions cannot be drawn.
Evaluation of dynamic testing of full-scale wind turbine drivetrains with hardware-in-the-loop
Authors: Bibo Amin , Panyam Meghashyam
Published: April 2022

Dynamometer testing of full-scale wind turbine drivetrains involves subjecting integrated components to extreme static loads, fatigue loads, or dynamic loads to replicate field conditions. This paper provides a detailed evaluation of the uncertainty and errors in applied loads and measured responses, and their magnitude relative to established repeatability bounds for a drivetrain subjected to static and dynamic loads on the 7.5 MW test bench at the Clemson University Wind Turbine Drivetrain Testing Facility. An ideal drivetrain simulation model is utilized to isolate the influence of load tracking errors on test article responses. It is shown that the test article response variations are mainly driven by run out and clearances inherent to the drivetrain. For the dynamic profiles, the load tracking errors are within acceptable limits. A frequency analysis is used to show that the test bench controller tracking performance is acceptable for profiles with frequency content up to 1.5 Hz.
Calcitonin receptor antibody validation and expression in the rodent brain
Authors: Hendrikse Erica R , Rees Tayla A , Tasma Zoe , Le Foll Christelle , Lutz Thomas A , Siow Andrew , Wookey Peter J , Walker Christopher S , Hay Debbie L
Published: April 2022

Background and aim

Therapeutics that reduce calcitonin gene-related peptide activity are effective migraine treatments. However, gaps remain in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that link calcitonin gene-related peptide to migraine. The amylin 1 receptor responds potently to calcitonin gene-related peptide, and to the related peptide amylin, but its role in relation to either peptide or to migraine is unclear. We sought to better understand the expression of the amylin 1 receptor protein subunit, the calcitonin receptor, in the rodent brain.

Methods

We profiled three antibodies for immunodetection of calcitonin receptor, using immunocytochemistry, western blotting, and calcitonin receptor conditional knockout mouse tissue. Selected migraine-relevant rat brain regions were then examined for calcitonin receptor-like immunoreactivity.

Results

All three antibodies detected calcitonin receptor protein but only one (188/10) produced robust immunostaining in rodent brain, under the conditions used. Calcitonin receptor-like immunoreactivity was apparent in the rat brainstem and midbrain including the locus coeruleus, periaqueductal grey and spinal trigeminal nucleus.

Conclusions

Anti-calcitonin receptor antibodies require comprehensive profiling to ensure confidence in the detection of calcitonin receptor. Using a validated antibody, calcitonin receptor-like immunoreactivity was detected in several brain regions relevant to migraine. Further research is needed to understand the functional consequences of calcitonin receptor expression for calcitonin gene-related peptide or amylin physiology and pathophysiology.
The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental and Emotional Health of Athletes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jia Lori , Carter Michael V. , Cusano Antonio , Li Xinning , Kelly John D. , Bartley Jessica D. , Parisien Robert L.
Published: April 2022

Background:

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused the cancellation or postponement of virtually every sporting event, resulting in training disruptions, income loss, and career uncertainties for athletes around the world. At present, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and emotional health of athletes is not well understood.

Purpose:

To investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and emotional health of athletes and to identify risk factors associated with poor mental health outcomes.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify all articles reporting on athletes’ mental and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Articles were selected based on relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria. Study characteristics, athlete demographics, and COVID-19 mental health data (sex-, type of sport—, and level of play—specific differences) were collected from each included article and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 35 studies were included in the final analysis, comprising athletes around the world and across numerous sports and levels of play. Most studies utilized at least 1 validated mental health questionnaire and assessed for outcomes such as depression, anxiety, stress, motivation, and athletic identity. Overall, athletes reported worse mental and emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic, although these effects were attenuated by home training programs and quarantine training camps. Female sex and more elite levels of play were associated with an increased risk for poor mental health outcomes. Type of sport was associated with mixed results, with individual and team sports carrying different increased risks for poor mental and emotional health. Nearly all studies recommended the need for increased psychological support of athletes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion:

The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental and emotional health of athletes is complex and multifaceted. Increased social interactions with coaches and teammates, continued access to training facilities and mental health professionals, and active utilization of healthy coping mechanisms can improve mental health outcomes for athletes in the era of COVID-19.
Direct Thrombin Inhibition in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Geli Janos , Capoccia Massimo , Maybauer Dirk M. , Maybauer Marc O.
Published: April 2022

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a widely used technique to provide circulatory and/or respiratory support in critically ill patients. ECMO treatment usually necessitates systemic anticoagulation. Unfractionated Heparin (UFH) is a commonly used anticoagulant in patients on ECMO support. In situations where UFH is contraindicated, alternative anticoagulation strategies can be applied, such as the use of direct thrombin inhibitors (DTI). Bivalirudin and argatroban are the most widely used DTIs. In this report we give account of the current evidence regarding dosing, monitoring and complications associated with the use of these agents in ECMO dependent patients.
Immune system and atherosclerosis: Hostile or friendly relationship
Authors: Razeghian-Jahromi Iman , Karimi Akhormeh Ali , Razmkhah Mahboobeh , Zibaeenezhad Mohammad Javad
Published: April 2022

Coronary artery disease has remained a major health challenge despite enormous progress in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Formation of atherosclerotic plaque is a chronic process that is developmentally influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic determinants. Inflammation triggers atherosclerosis, and the fundamental element of inflammation is the immune system. The immune system involves in the atherosclerosis process by a variety of immune cells and a cocktail of mediators. It is believed that almost all main components of this system possess a profound contribution to the atherosclerosis. However, they play contradictory roles, either protective or progressive, in different stages of atherosclerosis progression. It is evident that monocytes are the first immune cells appeared in the atherosclerotic lesion. With the plaque growth, other types of the immune cells such as mast cells, and T lymphocytes are gradually involved. Each cell releases several cytokines which cause the recruitment of other immune cells to the lesion site. This is followed by affecting the expression of other cytokines as well as altering certain signaling pathways. All in all, a mix of intertwined interactions determine the final outcome in terms of mild or severe manifestations, either clinical or subclinical. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to precisely understand the kind and degree of contribution which is made by each immune component in order to stop the growing burden of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In this review, we present a comprehensive appraisal on the role of immune cells in the atherosclerosis initiation and development.
Bisphenol-A/Radiation mediated inflammatory response activates EGFR/KRAS/ERK1/2 signaling pathway leads to lung carcinogenesis incidence
Authors: Abo-Zaid Omayma AR , Moawed Fatma SM , Hassan Hend A , Moustafa Enas M
Published: April 2022

Background

Bisphenol (BPA) and ionizing radiation exposure (IR) are potent oxidants that cause free radical induction, leading to signaling pathway activation that alters cell growth. Due to the insufficient knowledge of the impact of BPA and IR on the lungs, the current study determined the impact of BPA and IR on the lung tissue of adult female Wistar rats.

Methods

Forty Wister female rats were used in this study and were randomly divided into four groups. The rats received BPA (150 mg/kg body weight/day for 6 weeks) and were exposed to IR at 2 Gy/week up to 12 Gy for 6 weeks.

Results

It was found that BPA and IR possess a harmful effect on the lungs via induction of oxidative stress, confirmed by increasing levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Exposure to BPA and IR activates inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, growth factors such as TGF-β, and gastrin-releasing peptides. BPA/IR exposures induced phosphorylated expression p-ERK1/2 and p-MEK1/2 associated with triggering of the GPER/EGFR/KRAS signaling factors, resulting in matrix metalloproteinase-2 and 9 overexpression and the development of lung tumors. Our findings support the causal role of two deleterious environmental pollutants BPA and IR, via the cytotoxicity in the respiratory system in the form of severe lung damage resulting in cancerous cells.
Women Gerontologists’ Personal Experiences with Aging: Results From the Women in Gerontology Legacy Project
Authors: Cohen Adrienne L. , Dawson Akiv , Ryan Rebecca
Published: April 2022

The Women in Gerontology Legacy (WIGL) Project involved interviewing 46 older women gerontologists between 2014 and 2015. The current study focuses on the WIGL interview questions regarding the interactions between participants’ experiences as gerontologists and their own aging. Emergent themes focus on the direction of influence: professional lives influencing personal lives, personal lives informing professional lives and mutuality between personal and professional lives. Thematic findings expand our current understanding of how professional knowledge and experiences contribute to personal aging experiences and the role personal aging experiences can have on the professional lives of women gerontologists. There is a potential for disconnect to occur between our personal experiences and the experiences of others. The current study contributes to our understanding of when and how this occurs, so we can then ensure our messages fall on receptive ears by overcoming the natural tendency to distort or ignore messages that may create anxiety.
Tracheal reconstruction with pedicled tandem grafts engineered by a radial stretch bioreactor
Authors: Tsao Chung-Kan , Liao Kuan-Hao , Hsiao Hui-Yi , Liu Yun-Hen , Wu Chieh-Tsai , Cheng Ming-Huei , Zhong Wen-Bin
Published: April 2022

The engineering of tracheal substitutes is pivotal in improving tracheal reconstruction. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of biomechanical stimulation on tissue engineering tracheal cartilage by mimicking the trachea motion through a novel radial stretching bioreactor, which enables to dynamically change the diameter of the hollow cylindrical implants. Applying our bioreactor, we demonstrated that chondrocytes seeded on the surface of Poly (ε-caprolactone) scaffold respond to mechanical stimulation by improvement of infiltration into implants and upregulation of cartilage-specific genes. Further, the mechanical stimulation enhanced the accumulation of cartilage neo-tissues and cartilage-specific extracellular macromolecules in the muscle flap-remodeled implants and reconstructed trachea. Nevertheless, the invasion of fibrous tissues in the reconstructed trachea was suppressed upon mechanical loading.