bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wood Smoke Extract Promotes Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Normal Human Lung Fibroblasts
Authors: Recillas-Román Stephanie , Montaño Martha , Ruiz Víctor , Pérez-Ramos Julia , Becerril Carina , Herrera Iliana , Amador-Muñoz Omar , Martínez-Domínguez Y. Margarita , Ramos Carlos
Published: September 2021

Wood smoke (WS) contains many harmful compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). WS induces inflammation in the airways and lungs and can lead to the development of various acute and chronic respiratory diseases. Pulmonary fibroblasts are the main cells involved in the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during the WS-induced inflammatory response. Although fibroblasts remain in a low proliferation state under physiological conditions, they actively participate in ECM remodeling during the inflammatory response in pathophysiological states. Consequently, we used normal human lung fibroblasts (NHLFs) to assess the potential effects of the PAHs-containing wood smoke extract (WSE) on the growth rate, total collagen synthesis, and the expression levels of collagen I and III, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, TIMP-2, and the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. We also assessed MMPs activity. The results showed that WSE induced a trimodal behavior in the growth rate curves in NHLFs; the growth rate increased with 0.5-1 % WSE and decreased with 2.5% WSE, without causing cell damage; 5-20% WSE inhibited the growth and induced cell damage. After 3 hours of exposure, 2.5% WSE induced an increase in total collagen synthesis and upregulation of TGF-β1, collagen I and III, MMP-1, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 expression. However, MMP-2 expression was downregulated and MMP-9 was not expressed. The gelatinase activity of MMP-2 was also increased. These results suggest that WSE affects the ECM remodeling in NHLFs and indicate the potential involvement of PAHs in this process.
Outcome of coxofemoral luxation treated with closed reduction in 51 cats
Authors: LeFloch Marielle D , Coronado George S
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe the outcomes and determine the reluxation rate of cats undergoing closed coxofemoral joint reduction, and to investigate potential risk factors for reluxation of the affected coxofemoral joint.

Methods

Case information was obtained from electronic medical records from Ocean State Veterinary Specialists and Bay State Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Services between January 2008 and May 2020. Data obtained from 51 cats with coxofemoral joint luxations included patient signalment, direction of coxofemoral joint luxation, concurrent injuries, ease of reduction, time of injury to closed reduction, bandage application and outcome. Data were analyzed for association with outcomes.

Results

Closed reduction of coxofemoral joint luxation in cats had a 51% success rate. The only risk factor demonstrating a statistically significant benefit to the success of closed coxofemoral joint reduction was the application of a bandage ( P = 0.02).

Conclusions and relevance

It may be worth attempting closed coxofemoral joint reduction in cats prior to recommending surgery. Placing a bandage (Ehmer or hobbles) after closed reduction may decrease the risk of the coxofemoral joint reluxating, but more studies are needed to evaluate this further. The outcome after closed reduction management for coxofemoral joint luxation in cats is similar to the previously reported success rate in dogs.
Perceptions of developing creativity in piano performance and pedagogy: An interview study from the Chinese perspective
Authors: Zheng Yuan , Leung Bo-Wah
Published: September 2021

Although creativity in music is a topic widely considered and studied among global music educators, it has received limited attention in China while quite a number of Chinese pianists have been recognized on the international stage. How do Chinese pianists and professors perceive creativity in piano performance? How would they nurture creativity in the performances of their own and/or their students? Employing the Grounded Theory approach, this study investigated the perceptions of creativity in piano performance of 13 eminent pianists and professors from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou through a series of semi-structured interviews. The interviewees identified several factors related to the development of musical creativity in piano performance, including pianists’ relevant knowledge, their musical and life experiences, imagination and association, reflection and musical judgment, performing environments, and the Chinese cultural elements of holism and dynamism. Implications for teaching include the encouragement of a balance between Western and Chinese epistemologies in both analytical and abstract thinking. In nurturing students’ creativity in piano performances, students should live in culture-related contexts, and understand the world in a holistic epistemology with an abstract imagination. This study has further provided a more holistic understanding of how to nurture musical creativity with an alternative perspective.
Short report: Call to action for autism clinicians in response to anti-Black racism
Authors: Straiton Diondra , Sridhar Aksheya
Published: September 2021

Anti-Black racism is a pervasive issue in the autism field that affects the autism service pathway, which ranges from identification of concerns to ongoing service navigation. In this short report, we provide a working model of the autism service pathway and highlight ways in which anti-Black racism affects all components of the pathway. We summarize the literature that demonstrates the effects of racism within autism assessment, treatment, and quality of care. We end with six recommendations for systemic change that clinicians can take: (1) including and amplifying Black autistic voices within their organization, (2) continuously learning about and acknowledging the ways in which their discipline perpetuates anti-Black racism, (3) recognizing that cultural humility is a lifelong process, (4) being mindful of the complex pathway that families must navigate to receive autism services, particularly when working with Black individuals, and (5) advocating for system-level changes within their organization and refining changes that are made.

Lay abstract

Black autistic people experience anti-Black racism when interacting with service systems and the clinicians in those systems. In this article, we describe the various steps families take to get services and how anti-Black racism makes that process even harder. We discuss research that shows the negative effects of anti-Black racism in autism assessment, treatment, and quality of care. We then provide five recommendations that clinicians should follow to reduce anti-Black racism in the autism field: (1) find Black autistic people and listen to their opinions about your organization, (2) always keep learning about how your profession promotes anti-Black racism, (3) recognize that the process of a clinician learning to be culturally humble takes time and is never “complete,” (4) pay attention to all of the steps that families must take to receive autism services and how these steps are even harder for Black individuals, and (5) advocate for your organization to make systems-level changes in their policies and procedures.
Sustainable pensions, democratic governance, and EU law
Authors: McGaughey Ewan
Published: September 2021

The quality of democracy in our economy depends on the governance of capital, but Europeans are still deprived of real voice over their retirement money: the single biggest source of capital in the 21st century. This paper outlines three major problems facing EU pensions: precarious retirement, escalating inequality, and mounting climate damage. These problems start with the places where we work, the institutions that control our retirement savings, and the votes on shares that come with them. The central argument is that pensions will only be sustainable once they are democratically, prudently, and loyally governed. First, member states have wide experience with co-determination in capital funds, which can inform the basis of minimum standards in EU law for ‘pension fund democracy’. Second, a growing number of investment rules draw upon Member States’ fiduciary duties and standards for prudence or care; but, these do not yet codify the requirement that beneficiaries’ environmental, social, and governance preferences are followed. Third, votes on shares - bought with pension fund assets - are still being cast by banks and asset managers who manage ‘other people’s money’. This is a serious problem because banks and asset managers have interests that systematically conflict with the ultimate investors: they vote in companies on other people’s money and, at the same time, sell financial products (e.g., pensions) to those companies. The problems are soluble with careful amendments to existing policy that ensure elected representatives of pension beneficiaries are the sole determinants of voting policies, with prudence and no conflicts of interest. A draft EU Directive, based upon emerging best practice, is proposed.
Book review: Broto, V. C. and Westman, L. 2019: Urban Sustainability and Justice: Just Sustainabilities and Environmental Planning
Authors: Tihani Salma
Published: September 2021

Broto, V. C. and Westman, L. 2019: Urban Sustainability and Justice: Just Sustainabilities and Environmental Planning. London: Zed Books Ltd. 208 pp., £65 (Hardback). ISBN: 978-1-78699-492-9.
Book review: Wiegratz, J., Martiniello, G. and Greco, E., editors, 2018: Uganda: The Dynamics of Neoliberal Transformation
Authors: Hammett Daniel
Published: September 2021

Wiegratz, J., Martiniello, G. and Greco, E., editors, 2018: Uganda: The Dynamics of Neoliberal Transformation. London: Zed Books. 408 pp. ISBN 1 78699 109 6 (cloth), 1 78699 108 9 (paper). £70.00 (cloth), £21.99 (paper).
Money Matters: A Three-Step Process for Using Budget Data in Program Evaluation to Assess the Design and Management of a Novel Public Health Program
Authors: Uhd Justin , DeGroff Amy , Sharma Krishna
Published: September 2021

We applied a three-step process, abstracting and analyzing program budgets to examine how Colorectal Cancer Control Program (CRCCP) awardees are structuring their programs and to assess the fidelity of program design to the CRCCP public health model. We reviewed 23 state, one tribal organization, and six university awardee budgets. We assessed resource allocations, staffing structures, and contracted partners and their activities. Awardees allocated 83% of all funds to contracts and personnel. Program managers were the most budgeted personnel type across three measures: number of people, full-time equivalency, and personnel costs. Awardees not only contracted with health care systems and clinics (39% of all contracts) but also contracted other partner types. Contractors were mainly funded to implement evidence-based interventions (25%) and conduct evaluation (24%). Program design varied among awardees in the number of staff (0–22), number of full-time equivalencies (0–5.4), and the number of contracts (1–11) budgeted. State awardees budgeted more resources to contracts, compared with university awardees (57% vs. 31%), while universities budgeted more for total personnel costs (41% vs. 30%). We learned that awardees designed their programs with fidelity to the CRCCP model. Although implementation approaches varied, overall results suggest implementation requires a combination of internal capacities and contracted partners. Budgets provide opportunities to use already existing program data to evaluate program design, partnerships, and planned activities.
Radical Interrelated Qualitative Space in the Midst of Multipandemics: A Collaborative Scholarly Personal Narrative
Authors: Combs Lisa Delacruz , Dellarosa Maretha , Kim Myung-Jin , Pittman Alexander G-J , Gilbert Chelsea , Smith Spencer J. , Smith Tessa , Valley Shay N. , Pasque Penny A.
Published: September 2021

Given the current unprecedented multiple pandemics of COVID-19, anti-Black and anti-Asian violence, and white supremacy, we—a group of graduate students and a faculty member who hold diverse identities across disciplines, race, gender, nationality, and additional categories—came together to focus on qualitative research as an ontological, epistemological, and axiological space toward community and culture change. Specifically, we took up scholarly personal narrative, which centers postmodernism and focuses on the reality that “we see what we believe; we observe what we narrate; we transform what we reframe.” What emerged were radical interrelated understandings of privilege, guilt, and the importance of kinship. As such, this vulnerable group reflected on graduate student experiences with multiple pandemics and how the academy may enact transformative change, reframing our own understandings of qualitative space.
A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial for Comparison of Two Methods of Maggot Therapy, Free-Range Larvae and Larval-bag, in Diabetic Ulcer (Wagner 2)
Authors: Dehghan Omid , Tabaie Seyed Mehdi , Rafinejad Javad , Toutounchi Mehrangiz , Tiyuri Amir , Azarmi Sahar , Esmaeeli Djavid Gholamreza , Akbarzadeh Kamran
Published: September 2021

In the present study, the efficiency of two formulations of maggot therapy: free-range larvae on the wounds and larvae in a special bag (larval-bag), was compared for healing diabetic ulcers with Wagner 2 diabetic ulcer. This study was conducted as a parallel randomized clinical trial. Out of 281 patients with Wagner grade 2 diabetic ulcers referred to the wound clinic, 54 patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to intervention groups. The disinfected larvae of Lucilia sericata were put on the wounds with 2 methods, free-range larvae and larval-bag. Follow up was done at every 48 h interval until the full appearance of granulated tissues. The main measures were wound bed preparation, removing of necrotic tissues, appearing of granulated tissues, and removing of bacterial infections in the wounds. Statistical analysis based on the Kaplan–Meier curve and the Wilcoxon (Breslow) test showed a significant reduction in wound healing time by using free-range larvae in comparison with larval-bag ( P = .03). The median time to debridement was 4 days in the free-range larval group (95% confidence interval: 3-9 days) while it was 9 days in the larval-bag group (95% confidence interval: 5-16 days). Debridement rate (proportion of removed necrotic tissue surfaces) at any time in the free-ranged larvae group was 1.78 times that of the bagged larvae group (95% confidence interval 1.01-3.15, P = .036). There was no significant difference between free-range larval use and larval-bag in the acceptability of maggot therapy by patients ( P = .48). It can be concluded that both of two formulations of the larval therapy (free-range larvae and larval-bag) could be recommended for cleaning out and bed preparation of diabetic ulcers. However, using free-range larvae is hardly recommended on the wounds which are eligible to use.
A Rare Cause of Epilepsy: Ulegyria Revisited in a Series of 10 Patients
Authors: Bican Demir Aylin , Eser Pinar , Bekar Ahmet , Hakyemez Bahattin , Bora İbrahim
Published: September 2021

Introduction. Ulegyria results from perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in term infants. The specific mushroom-shaped configuration of ulegyria results from small atrophic circumvolutions at the bottom of a sulcus underlying an intact gyral apex. Clinically, ulegyria is generally associated with epilepsy. Here, we aimed to delineate the characteristics of patients with ulegyria and the epileptic seizures they experience. Material and methods. Medical records including radiology and pathology reports, video-electroencephalographic (EEG) analysis, operative notes, hospital progress and outpatient clinic notes were reviewed retrospectively in a total of 10 ulegyria patients. Results. Patients ages ranged between 24 and 58 years (mean, 32 ± 9.8 years). Past medical history was confirmed for neonatal asphyxia in 2 (20%). Neurological examination was remarkable for spastic hemiparesis in 1 (10%) patient with perisylvian ulegyria and for visual field deficits in 2 patients (20%) with occipital ulegyria. Ulegyria most commonly involved the temporoparietal region (n = 5, 50%) followed by the perisylvian area (n = 2, 20%). Except the one with bilateral perisylvian ulegyria, all patients had unilateral lesions (n = 9, 90%). Hippocampal sclerosis accompanied ulegyria in 2 patients (20%). All patients experienced epileptic seizures. Mean age at seizure onset was 8.8 ± 5.4 years (range, 2-20 years). Interictal scalp EEG and EEG-video monitoring records demonstrated temporoparietal and frontotemporal activities in 5 (50%) and 2 (20%) patients, respectively. The seizures were successfully controlled by antiepileptic medication in 8 patients (n = 8, 80%). The remaining 2 patients (%20) with concomitant hippocampal sclerosis required microsurgical resection of the seizure foci due to medically resistant seizures. Discussion. Ulegyria is easily recognized with its unique magnetic resonance imaging characteristics and clinical presentation in the majority of cases. It is highly associated with either medically resistant or medically controllable epileptic seizures. The treatment strategy depends on the age at onset and extends of the lesion that has a significant impact on the severity of the clinical picture.
Abdominal Wall Expanding System. Intraoperative Abdominal Wall Expansion as a Technique to Repair Giant Incisional Hernia and Laparostoma. New and Long-Term Results From a Three-Center Feasibility Study
Authors: Eucker Dietmar , Rüedi Nadine , Luedtke Clinton , Stern Oliver , Niebuhr Henning , Zerz Andreas , Rosenberg Robert
Published: September 2021

Background

The abdominal wall expanding system (AWEX) was first applied in 2012 and published in 2017. This novel technique was developed to reconstruct complex incisional hernias and residual skin-grafted laparostoma after treatment of an open abdomen, when primary midline closure was impossible. The main aim was the anatomical reconstruction of the abdominal wall and the avoidance of dissecting techniques (component separation).

Methods

Between 2012 and 2019, 33 patients underwent AWEX hernia repair in three certified hernia centers. The retracted abdominal wall was stretched with the AWEX system intraoperatively for approximately 30 min. Hernia size was measured preoperatively, on CT, and intraoperatively. The gain in length on the lateral abdominal wall (decrease in width of the defect) after stretching and any residual midline gap were determined in the OR.

Results

33 patients underwent AWEX procedures. Six cases were evaluated separately because of additional procedures (TAR, four cases) and preoperative application of botulinum toxin (two cases). The median (95% confidence interval) measured width of hernia defects was 13 (12–16) cm, the median gain in length on the lateral abdominal wall was 12 (10–15) cm. After median follow-up of 29 (12–54) months, one recurrence from the broken mesh was observed. No method-related complications occurred.

Conclusion

Based on the 2017 and current results, the AWEX system represents an alternative or supplemental procedure to current techniques for complex abdominal wall reconstruction. The system proved again to be time-saving, safe, effective, and easy to learn. Further studies with enhanced technology are in progress.
The Ethical Implications of Using Social Media to Engage and Retain Justice-Involved Youth in Behavioral Health Research
Authors: Rodriguez Christopher A. , Gopalakrishnan Lakshmi , Del Cid Margareth , Folk Johanna B. , Yonek Juliet , Tolou-Shams Marina
Published: September 2021

Given its popularity among youth ages 13–17, social media is a promising avenue for engaging and retaining historically hard-to-reach youth in longitudinal research. Social media use in longitudinal research involving youth, however, has preceded development of best practices for ethical use. This article describes the ethical challenges and considerations of using social media to engage and retain youth within the context of a randomized controlled trial of a group-based adolescent substance use intervention. Best practices for addressing ethical challenges are also provided using the Belmont Principle as a guiding framework. As social media becomes more commonly used to engage and retain youth in clinical research studies, researchers must address emerging ethical concerns within project protocols.
Molecular dynamics simulation of pull-out Halloysite nanotube from polyurethane matrix
Authors: Pebdani Mohammadreza Heidari , Miller Ronald E.
Published: September 2021

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation has been applied to study of pull-out of Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) from a polyurethane (PU) matrix. First, the Machine learning (ML) particle swarm optimization (PSO) method was used to obtain force field parameters for MD from data of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The current study shows the possibility of using a PSO technique to modify the force field with DFT data with less than 5 kcal/mol discrepancy. Second, we considered the influence of atomic interface on pulling out of HNT from PU. Energy variation has been proposed as the cohesion strength between matrix and nanoparticle. In addition, the best Lennard Jones parameters in the MD simulation make good agreement with an experimental sample stress-strain response.
Can concomitant above-knee femoropopliteal bypass with artificial graft affect the outcome of femorofemoral bypass with artificial graft?
Authors: Kim In-Sub , Cha Jaehyung , Jo Won-Min
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Few have studied the effect of concomitant femoropopliteal (FEM-POP) bypass surgery on the outcome of femorofemoral (FEM-FEM) bypass in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This study was aimed to analyze the risk relationship of concomitant FEM-POP bypass on the patency of FEM-FEM bypass.

Methods

From March 2009 to April 2020, a total of 27 patients who underwent FEM-FEM bypass surgery using polytetrafluoroethylene grafts were retrospectively analyzed according to concomitant FEM-POP bypass surgery. The mean follow-up duration was 38.20 ± 34.56 months.

Results

The overall primary patency of the FEM-FEM bypass grafts in all 27 patients was 83.7, 78.5, and 72.0 at one, two, and 3 years, respectively. The overall limb salvage rate was 100, 94.1, and 86.9 at one, two, 3 years, respectively. Among them, ten patients underwent FEM-FEM bypass only (group 1). The other 17 patients needed a concomitant FEM-POP bypass and these patients were classified into three groups (group 2, ipsilateral FEM-POP, n = 5; group 3, crossover FEM-POP, n = 6; and group 4, bilateral FEM-POP, n = 6) The comparison of the primary patency of group 1 with the concomitant FEM-POP groups (sum of groups 2, 3, and 4, that is, group 5, n = 17) revealed a statistically significant improved patency for FEM-FEM bypasses not requiring concomitant infra-inguinal bypass ( p = .036). Among the concomitant FEM-POP groups, group 2 had the lowest primary patency of the FEM-FEM bypass significantly ( p = 0.07). The limb salvage rate of group 4 was significantly low.

Conclusions

A concomitant FEM-POP bypass influenced the outcome of FEM-FEM bypass surgery. In conclusion, compromised infra-inguinal runoff at either extremity requiring concomitant FEM-POP bypass significantly worsens long-term FEM-FEM bypass patency. In addition, a concomitant bilateral FEM-POP bypass is a risk factor affecting the limb salvage rate in FEM-FEM bypass.
Parameters optimization of central pattern generators for hexapod robot based on multi-objective genetic algorithm
Authors: Wang Binrui , Cui Xiaohong , Sun Jianbo , Gao Yanfeng
Published: September 2021

In this article, a network of central pattern generators is used for the motion planning of a hexapod robot. There are many parameters in the planning network, which determine the motion performance of the hexapod robot. On the other hand, the network is a highly nonlinear coupling network, which is difficult to obtain optimal parameters by an analytical method. Optimizing these parameters to make the robot walk well is a multi-objective optimization process. There is a certain mutual exclusion relationship among the targets. To find a well-performing network as soon as possible, a multi-objective genetic algorithm is used for the process of parameter tuning. The hexapod robot simulation model is performed in Webots, and the motion performance parameters of the robot are obtained through built-in sensors and are also considered as mean values of the optimization algorithm. The optimization algorithm is written and run with MATLAB. Finally, the optimization algorithm and simulation results are proven by an experiment.
Placing Camelot: Cultivating leadership and learning in the Kennedy presidency
Authors: McCann Leo , Mollan Simon
Published: September 2021

The concept of ‘place’ can play a powerful role in understanding how leadership is socially constructed. This article explores the geographic, symbolic and mythic uses of place in the cultivation of a distinct leadership style around the Presidency of John F. Kennedy. It focuses on the history of a social and learning event that today might be called a leadership development programme: the ‘Hickory Hill Seminars’ of 1961-4, named after and mostly held at the specific location of Robert F. Kennedy’s home. These seminars – only lightly touched on in Kennedy-era history and leadership literatures – were semi-formal occasions organized by the historian Arthur Schlesinger that brought eminent public intellectuals of the day to present their work to the assembled group of insiders. The seminars functioned as a network in action, both cultivating and projecting certain cultural formations of leadership. Bounded by the geographic places inhabited by Washington elites, the seminars formed part of the broader construction of the symbolic place of the ‘New Frontier’ and the mythic place of ‘Camelot’. The Hickory Hill seminars were one part of a broad metaphysical canvas upon which a distinct presidential leadership style and ‘legacy’ was created. Building on critical and social constructivist perspectives, we argue that geographic, symbolic and mythic notions of place can be central to the social construction of particular leadership styles and legacies, but that these creations can be deceptive, and remain always vulnerable to critique, co-optation and distortion by opponents and rivals.
The effect of medical and urologic disorders on the survival of patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer treated with abiraterone or enzalutamide
Authors: Serrano Domingo Juan José , Alonso Gordoa Teresa , Lorca Álvaro Javier , Molina-Cerrillo Javier , Barquín García Arantzazu , Martínez Sáez Olga , Burgos Revilla Javier , Carrato Alfredo , Álvarez Rodríguez Sara
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Androgenic deprivation therapies have been linked to the development of metabolic syndrome (MS) and cardiovascular diseases, which may lead to a poorer survival in patients with metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC). We aimed to analyze whether some cardiovascular or neurological disorders, together with other medical and urological complications, may have an effect on survival outcomes, at baseline and during treatment from patients treated with androgen pathway inhibitors (API).

Material and Methods:

A retrospective study of a consecutive series of patients diagnosed with mCRPC between 2010 and 2018 treated with API in the first line setting in a single center.

Results:

Seventy-three patients met the inclusion criteria. Baseline prognostic factors associated with worse survival were diabetes mellitus (DM) with insulin needs compared to patients without DM [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.19, p = 0.025], hypertension (HTN) (HR = 0.46, p = 0.035), and a history of stroke (HR = 0.16, p < 0.001). However, previous history of hypercholesterolemia, arrythmias, and cognitive disorders did not result in a significant worsening on survival. During treatment, patients who developed de novo HTN had the best progression free survival (PFS) (HR = 0.38, p = 0.048) and overall survival (OS) (HR 0.08, p = 0.012) compared with patients with previous HTN. Other factors related to worse outcomes included the presence of heart failure (HR = 0.31, p = 0.001), the requirement for major opioids for pain relief (HR = 0.33, p = 0.023), and the presence of bilateral ureterohydronephrosis (HR = 0.12, p = 0.008).

Conclusions:

Some comorbidities may be strongly involved in patient outcomes when receiving API for mCRPC. In this sense, collaborative networking between specialists and caregivers treating prostate cancer (PC) patients should be recommended, focusing on MS features, cardiovascular and neurological disorders in order to anticipate medical and surgical complications.
Analysis of Healthy Coping Feedback Messages from Diabetes Mobile Apps: Validation Against an Evidence-Based Framework
Authors: Narindrarangkura Ploypun , Ye Qing , Boren Suzanne A. , Khan Uzma , Simoes Eduardo J. , Kim Min Soon
Published: September 2021

Background:

In this study, we focused on Healthy Coping, a key principle of ADCES7 Self-Care Behaviors® (ADCES7®) that enables people with diabetes to achieve health goals for self-care. We aimed to validate Healthy Coping-related feedback messages from diabetes mobile apps against the framework based on behavioral change theories.

Methods:

We searched apps using the search terms: “diabetes,” “blood sugar,” “glucose,” and “mood” from iTunes and Google Play stores. We entered a range of values on 3 Healthy Coping domains: (1) diabetes-related measures including blood glucose, blood pressure, HbA1c, weight, (2) physical exercise/activity, and (3) mood to generate feedback messages. We used a framework by adopting validated behavioral change theory-based models to evaluate the feedback messages against 3 dimensions of timing, intention, and content (feedback purpose and feedback response). The feedback purposes in this study were categorized into 7 purposes; warning, suggestion, self-monitoring, acknowledging, reinforcement, goal setting, and behavior contract.

Results:

We identified 1,749 apps from which 156 diabetes mobile apps were eligible and generated 473 feedback messages. The majority of generated feedback messages were related to blood sugar measurement. Only feedback messages on blood sugar under diabetes-related measures and mood domains encompassed all 7 feedback purposes under the content dimension.

Conclusions:

Many feedback messages neither supported Healthy Coping domains nor followed the behavioral theory-based framework. It is important that feedback messages be structured around the dimensions of the behavioral theory-based framework to promote behavior change. Furthermore, our framework had the generalizability that can be used in other clinical areas.
Biophysical questions: Relating Marxism to physical geography
Authors: Engel-Di Mauro Salvatore
Published: September 2021

This intervention is to delineate an alternative to a largely capitalism-accommodating physical geography by discussing the relevance of Marxism. To illustrate this, I elaborate on major Marxist concepts. It turns out that some currents within physical geography converge with Marxist understandings of science and could be further enhanced by a Marxist framework, possibly by way of a recently emerging Critical Physical Geography (CPG). I conclude by sharing how Marxism resonates with my own projects involving soils.
A crawling case of benign acute childhood myositis
Authors: Hyczko Alexis V , Rohrbaugh Mary Katherine , Suliman Alawia K , Hackman Nicole M
Published: September 2021

Benign acute childhood myositis is a relatively uncommon complication of viral illness, particularly influenza A and B infections. In this abstract, we present a case report of benign acute childhood myositis secondary to influenza. On presentation, he was ill-appearing, febrile and had significant calf pain that limited mobility. Examination revealed mildly erythematous throat and bilateral calf tenderness with pain on dorsiflexion bilaterally. A respiratory virus panel was positive for influenza A subtype H3 and he was found to have an elevated creatine phosphokinase. He was diagnosed with benign acute childhood myositis secondary to influenza type A infection and symptoms gradually resolved following supportive management. Management involves oral hydration, pain management, and follow-up to ensure resolution. Extensive laboratory evaluation and hospitalization are often unnecessary. Benign acute childhood myositis is self-limiting with an excellent prognosis and should be included in the differential for a child who develops difficulty walking, particularly when presentation follows a respiratory infection.
Factors influencing self-care behavior of socio-economically disadvantaged diabetic patients: A systematic review
Authors: Reshma P. , Rajkumar Eslavath , John Romate , George Allen J
Published: September 2021

Diabetes mellitus and its complications carry broad financial misfortune to the diabetic patients and their family, to the well-being frameworks, and to the public economies through direct clinical expenses and decreased work efficiency. The present study systematically reviewed the possible factors that are influencing self-care behavior of disadvantaged diabetic patients that contribute heavily to the management of this chronic illness. Structured searches were conducted on PubMed, ScienceDirect, and manual searches on Google Scholar for articles published between the years 2000 and 2020. The review was limited to a particular time frame due to the change in WHO criteria for diagnosis and classification of abnormal glucose tolerance. Initially, 96858 articles were identified, and following the screening and full-text reading, 10 studies that met the inclusion criteria were chosen for systematic review. Seven studies had reported the factors influencing self-care behavior among disadvantaged diabetic population. Three studies had reported the importance of intervention strategies and its impact on self-care behavior among them. Findings show that self-care management of socio-economically disadvantaged people entails dimensions including diabetes knowledge, lack of physical activities, social support, lack of access to services, life disruptions, denial of illness, societal attitudes, responsibilities, and treatment costs. It was additionally discovered that diabetes self-management support mediations are successful in drawing in lower economy patients, tending to contending life needs and hindrances to self-care, and encouraging behavior change. Taken together, future methodologically efficacious studies that establish health promoting behaviors and explorations of the factors influencing self-care behaviors of disadvantaged diabetic patients are needed.
From Organizational-Centric Engagement to Network-Centric Engagement: The Role of Autonomous Public Communities in a Mediated Public Policy Advocacy Network
Authors: Yang Aimei , Taylor Maureen
Published: September 2021

In this study, we explore how a social movement organization ( Sunrise.org ) and its autonomous public community advocated for the Green New Deal on social media. An autonomous public community is a group of publics that initially connect with each other through their engagement with a focal organization. Then, they go on to develop ties among themselves that go beyond simply responding to organizations’ messages. Autonomous public communities are ubiquitous on social media. Our research identifies unique patterns of interactions in an autonomous public community and finds that the Tertius Iungens orientation brings the network together. We also find that while the focal organization is not centralized in an autonomous public community, it still significantly affects tie formation and discourse as the networks evolve. Our study reveals a nuanced understanding of networked organization–public engagement where network structure and discourse are co-created by the organizations and the communities that they engage.
Union formation and childbearing among Chinese youth: Trends and socioeconomic differentials
Authors: Yu Jia
Published: September 2021

Driven by economic development, ideational changes and family planning policies, the Chinese family has experienced significant change over the past several decades. Based on data from the 2018 wave of the China Family Panel Studies, this study analyzes China’s younger generations’ union formation and childbearing behaviors. The results show that although the average age of entry into a first marriage continues to rise, young people generally express a desire to enter into marriage and value the creation of a family. As premarital cohabitation became more prevalent, its determinants change from the “second demographic transition” model to the “pattern of disadvantage” model. The differences between cohabitors and non-cohabitors in premarital conception, premarital childbirth and divorce diminished in the recent cohorts. The findings suggest that the age of childbearing for Chinese women remains relatively early. The implementation of the “universal two-child policy” in 2015 has also encouraged younger women’s childbearing. Among those born in the 1980s, almost half have already given birth to a second child. The ideal number of children has declined across birth cohorts in China, especially for individuals with a higher educational level and urban hukou. In summary, changes in union formation and childbearing among Chinese youth imply that China will be facing a further rise in the first marriage age and a further decline in the fertility rate. However, voluntary singlehood will remain rare, and Chinese youth still value the importance of marriage and childbearing.
Traumatic Left Ventricular Aneurysm and Ventricular Septal Defect in a Child
Authors: Vossler John D. , Fontes Andrew , Moza Rohin , Menon Shaji C. , Wong Vanessa L. , Husain S. Adil
Published: September 2021

Cardiac injuries following blunt trauma are rare but potentially lethal in children. We present a 23-month-old child who sustained an aneurysm of the left ventricle free wall and ventricular septum with associated ventricular septal defect following blunt trauma. She underwent successful surgical repair 6 weeks following her date of injury. Surgical decision-making surrounding this case is discussed.
Fostering Creativity and Work Engagement Through Perceived Organizational Support: The Interactive Role of Stressors
Authors: Inam Aneeq , Ho Jo Ann , Zafar Hina , Khan Unaiza , Sheikh Adnan Ahmed , Najam Usama
Published: September 2021

The increasing interest of organizations in innovating and surviving during stressful work environments has led scholars to ponder ways to increase employee’s creativity. The study aims to empirically examine the relationship between perceived organizational support (POS) and employee creativity through work engagement and the moderating effect of challenge and hindrance stressors. The theoretical lens of social exchange theory was used to explain the study framework. Data was collected from 324 marketing personnel of the beverage and telecom sector in Pakistan and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with AMOS. The findings revealed that the direct relationship between POS with work engagement and employee creativity and work engagement with employee creativity was significant. Interestingly, the moderator has shown a prominent effect, which illustrated that low hindrance stressors strengthened the relationship between POS and work engagement. The study contributes by enhancing the employee’s creativity by reducing stressful working environments in many ways.
Causal System Scenario Tool for Near Miss Accident Analysis
Authors: Sharma Mohita G. , Sharma S. M.
Published: September 2021

Sociotechnical systems (STS) approach to the design of complex systems has been researched extensively. It stresses the fact that system design is never complete; it is an open-ended iterative process wherein designing never stops. With increasing technological advancement and diverse social issues emerging, the new dynamics, system approach has to be followed ingenuously. This Causal System Scenario Tool is applied in this study to a near-miss accident analysis for Indian railways. In particular, we look at the incidence of signal passing at danger (SPAD) by the train pilot due to various sociotechnical and organizational factors. We modify the system scenarios tool by proposing an additional causal system scenario tool. The contribution of this paper is threefold. Firstly, the STS analysis of SPAD is a novel approach. Secondly, STS has been applied in the context of developed economies but we use the Indian scenario, that is, in emerging economies. Thirdly, it contributes to the methodology by supplementing STS analysis with the causal system scenario tool, making it more robust. The first step maps the ‘as is situation’ and utilizes affinity diagram for plotting the issues on the framework. This is followed by replicating the process for the ‘to be situation’ and causal modelling for balancing the system is used, validating this tool. This approach can provide insights to the practitioners and policy makers in designing appropriate interventions to enhance safety of train travel.
Does Poverty Matter for Tax Revenue Performance in Developing Countries?
Authors: Gnangnon Sèna Kimm
Published: September 2021

This article explores the effect of poverty on tax revenue performance (tax revenue share), using an unbalanced panel data set of 102 developing countries over the period from 1996 to 2015. Based on the two-step system generalized methods of moments (GMM) approach, the empirical analysis shows that higher poverty rates significantly reduce tax revenue performance in developing countries. However, the magnitude of this negative effect is lower in least developed countries (LDCs) than in other countries of the sample. The analysis has also revealed that the tax revenue performance effect of poverty depends on the level of household consumption as well as the prevailing unemployment rate in the economy. Finally, development aid inflows help to mitigate the negative effect of poverty on tax revenue performance in developing countries. These findings not only highlight the importance of poverty for tax revenue performance in developing countries, but they additionally show that the provision of higher amounts of development aid to these countries could help them mitigate the adverse tax revenue effect of poverty, and even allow them to enjoy higher tax revenue performance, which is key for attaining their development objectives.

JEL Classification: I30, I32, H20
The Microbial Neck: A Biological Review of the Various Implant–Abutment Connections
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Pronoy , Khalikar Arun , Wankhade Sattyam , Deogade Suryakant
Published: September 2021

Aim:

This study reviews the importance of selecting implant systems with connection designs that ensure better long-term prognosis of the prosthesis, thus placed.

Materials and Methods:

An electronic search on the PubMed database was done using MeSH keywords (“dental implant OR abutment OR connection AND microleakage OR bone loss”) to review English language articles published since the year 2011, which compared the crestal bone levels and microleakage around various implant–abutment connection designs (external hex, internal hex, and Morse taper). The search screened for articles on human trials and in vitro studies to be included within the review.

Results:

Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria applied to the preliminary search, a total of four articles were included in the review for evaluating the influence of connection type on peri-implant bone loss, while nine articles were included to study the influence on bacterial leakage across the implant–abutment interface.

Conclusion:

Based on the studies reviewed, the conical connection design proved to be the most biologically stable junctional geometry because of the better microbial seal and the lesser micromovement observed in these types of implants during functional loading. Moreover, this review even emphasizes the need for more longitudinal clinical trials to assess the microbial seal of these connection designs within the actual oral environment to evaluate long-term changes in the peri-implant tissues, and subsequently even factor the prognosis of the planned prosthetic intervention.
Risk Factors for Throwing-Related Shoulder and Elbow Pain in Adolescent Baseball Players: A Prospective Study of Physical and Developmental Factors
Authors: Tajika Tsuyoshi , Oya Noboru , Kuboi Takuro , Endo Fumitaka , Ichinose Tsuyoshi , Shimoyama Daisuke , Sasaki Tsuyoshi , Hamano Noritaka , Omodaka Takuya , Kobayashi Hiroki , Mieda Tokue , Okamura Koichi , Shitara Hitoshi , Iizuka Yoichi , Yamamoto Atsushi , Nakajima Ichiro , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Sakamoto Masaaki , Takagishi Kenji , Chikuda Hirotaka
Published: September 2021

Background:

Throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain continues to be reported among adolescent baseball players. Few prospective studies have specifically examined the association between throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain and physical and developmental changes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the changes in physical and developmental characteristics during 1 year with respect to throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain in adolescent baseball players.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This 1-year prospective follow-up study investigated 164 baseball players aged 7 to 13 years. Player data (age, height, weight, field position, and pitch count), lower extremity muscle tightness, and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder, elbow, and hip joints were assessed during the 2016 and 2017 preseason medical examinations. After the 2016 season, the participants completed questionnaires related to throwing-related shoulder and elbow pain, defined as an inability to play for ≥1 week because of elbow or shoulder difficulties. For study participants with and without throwing-related shoulder or elbow pain during the 2016 season, we conducted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify risk factors for throwing-related shoulder or elbow pain.

Results:

Overall, 21 players (12.8%) reported a shoulder pain episode, 56 players (34.1%) had an elbow pain episode, and 70 players (42.7%) reported having experienced shoulder and/or elbow pain during the 2016 season. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, (1) shoulder pain was associated with 2016 preseason height (odds ratio [OR], 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11; P = .01) and change in dominant-side elbow extension ROM from 2016 to 2017 (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.02-1.24; P = .02); (2) elbow pain was associated with change in weight from 2016 to 2017 (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.04-1.41; P = .014); and (3) throwing-related shoulder and/or elbow pain was associated with greater 2016 preseason height (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.003-1.68; P = .03) and an increase in height from 2016 to 2017 (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.01-1.35; P = .03).

Conclusion:

Our results indicated that adolescent baseball players who were taller in the preseason and those with an increase in height over the 1-year study period faced significant risks for developing throwing-related shoulder and/or elbow pain.