bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Fragility Index of Statistically Significant Findings From Randomized Controlled Trials Comparing the Management Strategies of Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Davey Martin S. , Hurley Eoghan T. , Doyle Tom R. , Dashti Hasan , Gaafar Mohamed , Mullett Hannan
Published: April 2022

Background:

Debate centering on the management of anterior shoulder instability (ASI) in recent years has led to many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) being published on the topic. The fragility index (FI) has subsequently emerged as a novel method of assessing significant findings reported in RCTs, particularly those with small sample sizes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the FI of statistically significant findings in RCTs that reported the outcomes of management strategies of patients with ASI.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

Using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, 2 independent reviewers performed a systematic review of RCTs focusing on the outcomes of management strategies of patients with ASI. There were 3 main categories of RCTs included: (1) nonoperative management in internal rotation (IR) versus external rotation (ER), (2) nonoperative management versus a surgical intervention, and (3) surgical management with arthroscopic Bankart repair versus open Bankart repair. The Fisher exact test was utilized to calculate the FI for the reversal of statistical significance in all statistically significant dichotomous outcomes.

Results:

A total of 21 RCTs were included, including 1589 shoulders (mean age, 29.4 years) with a mean follow–up of 26.8 months. There were 10 RCTs (831 shoulders) that reported outcomes after the nonoperative management of ASI in IR versus ER, with a mean FI of 6.8. There were 5 RCTs (324 shoulders) that reported outcomes comparing the nonoperative and operative management of ASI, with a mean FI of 3.5. There were 6 RCTs (434 shoulders) that reported outcomes after the operative management of ASI with either arthroscopic Bankart repair or open Bankart repair, with a mean FI of 9.6.

Conclusion:

The overall FI of RCTs reporting the outcomes of management strategies for patients with ASI was high, suggesting a moderate fragility of statistically significant outcomes including recurrence, revision stabilization, and return to play.
Meniscal Displacement and Loss of Load-Transmission Function After Radial Tear of the Lateral Meniscus in a Porcine Model: New Insights Into the Functional Dynamics of the Injured Meniscus
Authors: Hirose Takehito , Mae Tatsuo , Ogasawara Issei , Yamakawa Satoshi , Nakata Ken , Ohori Tomoki , Tsujii Akira , Okada Seiji
Published: April 2022

Background:

Meniscal extrusion/translation has been used as an index for meniscal treatment. However, the relationship between meniscal displacement and the degree of meniscal tear or load–transmission function of the lateral meniscus (LM) remains unclear.

Purpose:

To clarify the relationship between the width of the radial tear of the LM and (1) meniscal displacement or (2) resultant force through the meniscus under axial compressive load in the porcine model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Eight intact porcine knees with or without a partial radial tear at the midbody of the LM (involving 30%, 60%, or 90% of its width) were investigated. Reflective markers were attached to the outer wall of the anterior, anteromiddle, posteromiddle, and posterior segments of the LM. A 300-N axial load was applied at 2 flexion angles (30° and 60°), and the 3–dimensional forces and trajectories of the knees were recorded. Marker movements were simultaneously tracked using a motion capture camera system. After total meniscectomy of the LM, the recorded knee trajectories were reproduced, and the resultant force through the LM was calculated (a force carried only by the meniscus in response to a load applied to the whole knee joint).

Results:

At both flexion angles, the change in distance (mean ± SD) between the anterior and posterior markers under load increased significantly more in the anteroposterior direction in LMs with a 90% tear than in intact LMs (30°, 0.4 ± 0.3 vs 1.4 ± 0.8 mm, P = .004; 60°, 0.1 ± 0.7 vs 1.4 ± 1.0 mm, P < .001 [intact vs 90% tear]). The change in distance between the anteromiddle and posteromiddle markers at 30° also significantly increased in LMs with a 90% tear (0.2 ± 0.2 vs 1.3 ± 1.2 mm, P = .02 [intact vs 90% tear]). The resultant force was significantly lower in LMs with a 90% tear than in intact LMs (30°, 125 ± 47 vs 48 ± 20 N, P < .001; 60°, 93 ± 46 vs 43 ± 11 N, P = .002 [intact vs 90% tear]). We found no significant differences in either meniscal displacements or resultant forces between intact LMs and those with 30% or 60% tears.

Conclusion:

LMs with a 90%-width midbody radial tear lost load–transmission function with their displacement relative to the tibia primarily in the anteroposterior direction in the porcine model.

Clinical Relevance:

Even 1 mm of displacement after meniscal injury is evidence that the load–transmission function of the meniscus is greatly impaired. When a displaced torn LM is diagnosed in preoperative imaging, meniscal repair surgery should be considered.
Intergenerational Socioeconomic Mobility and Cognitive Impairment Among Chinese Older Adults: Gender Differences
Authors: Fu Rong , Liu Yujun
Published: April 2022

This study examined the impact of intergenerational socioeconomic mobility on the risk of cognitive impairment in a cohort of Chinese older adults aged 60 years and older. Data were derived from the 2014 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Logistic regression models were performed to assess the impact of three dimensions of socioeconomic mobility (occupational mobility, educational mobility, and residential mobility) on the risk of cognitive impairment. We found that men who were stable with non-professional jobs across generations had a higher risk of cognitive impairment than their counterparts who experienced upward occupational mobility compared to their father. This pattern was not observed in women. There was little evidence that educational mobility or residential mobility affected cognitive impairment in later life. The findings have implications for advancing supportive policies and practices related to maximizing the benefits of education and career advancements for cognition in later life.
The COVID-19 Pandemic, Stay-at-Home Orders, and Gun Violence: A Story of Two Cities
Authors: Kim Dae-Young
Published: April 2022

This study examines the impact of the pandemic on gun violence in Philadelphia and Washington DC. Interrupted time-series analysis is used to examine weekly data from January 2017 to March 2021. Robust diagnostic checks confirm the validity of the fitted models. There were significant increases in gun violence during the pandemic, especially in the staged relaxation of social distancing. The timing of the increases in gun violence varies by location and fatality. Criminal justice agencies should place more attention and reallocate resources on gun violence in a timely manner in the volatile state of the nation. Finally, this study concludes with a discussion of the findings, limitations, and implications for future research.
Foods and Beverages Available to Nurses in Hospital Cafeterias, Vending Machines, and Gift Shops
Authors: Horton Dias Cynthia E. , Dawson Robin M. , Harris Diane M. , Wirth Michael D. , Abshire Demetrius A.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Hospitals are important workplaces for nurses with many perceived barriers to healthy eating, but objective assessments are lacking. This study evaluated the healthfulness of hospital consumer food environments.

Design

Cross-sectional observational; Setting: South Carolina; Subjects: Cafeterias, vending machines (VM), and gift shops (GS) in hospitals of varying size, urbanization, and region.

Measures

Using the Hospital Nutrition Environment Scan (HNES), primary outcomes of interest included availability, access, prices, and location of healthy foods in relation to nursing units.

Analysis

Descriptive and inferential statistics by independent samples t-test, ANOVA, Mann–Whitney U, χ2, or Fisher’s exact test as appropriate.

Results

Thirty-one hospitals were observed from December 2019 to February 2020. Average composite HNES score (n = 28) was 46.3 ± 14.9 (−45 to 173 range), indicating sub-optimal food environments. Cafeterias (n = 31) scored an average of 30.9 ± 10.5 (−33 to 86 range). Average VM (n = 31) and GS (n = 28) scores were 11.6 ± 6.0 (−6 to 55 range) and 2.9 ± 4.0 (−6 to 32 range), respectively. Small hospitals (≤100 beds) had lower average cafeteria score (22.4 ± 10.3) than extra-large hospitals (≥500 beds; 42 ± 5.2, P < .01). Small hospitals also had lower composite HNES scores (34.4 ± 17.1) compared to extra-large hospitals (61.0 ± 14.4, P = .02). Data regarding availability, access, prices, and location were also reported.

Conclusion

Due to abundant availability of unhealthy foods and beverages, hospital consumer food environments scored low on observations using the HNES, highlighting the opportunity to improve the healthfulness of facility offerings.
Incorporation of graphene nanoplatelets/hydroxyapatite in PMMA bone cement for characterization and enhanced mechanical properties of biopolymer composites
Authors: Dubey Umang , Kesarwani Shivi , Verma Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2022

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in powder form is broadly used as bone cement in orthopedic applications due to its expanded mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. In this study, a hybrid PMMA biopolymer nanocomposite is developed by the supplement of graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) and hydroxyapatite (HA) powders of nano-size with combined loadings ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 weight %. Both materials were applied uniformly to reinforce commercial bone cement made of polymethylmethacrylate. The findings showed that adding 1.5 wt.% of combined HA and GnP nanoparticles to the powder of PMMA bone cement resulted in the expansion of flexural strength by 49.28%, the flexural modulus by 30.80%, the compression strength by 31.7%, and the compression modulus by 57.41%. The nanocomposite was characterized using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDS), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to study the distribution of reinforced nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis of the prepared samples and fractured surface shows the proper dispersion of nanofillers into the matrix phase and possible reasons behind fracture. The inclusion of GnP and HA in the PMMA enhances the mechanical performances required for biomedical components. Also, the SEM findings of the mechanically tested broken surface of the polymer nanocomposite samples demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed material for joint replacement surgical procedures and orthopedic implants.
Improving Understanding of English Learner Education Through an Expanded Analytic Framework
Authors: Thompson Karen D. , Umansky Ilana M. , Rew W. Joshua
Published: April 2022

Existing analytic frameworks used to analyze and report on English learner (EL) students have important limitations that complicate the efforts of policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to fully understand this group’s experiences and outcomes and respond accordingly. To address this issue, we argue that education agencies should report and analyze outcomes for four categories of students: current ELs, former ELs, ever ELs (the combined group of current and former ELs), and never ELs. We present empirical data from six applications of our proposed four-category framework, illustrating the insights it provides.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Liraglutide vs Semaglutide in a Veteran Population
Authors: Rana Krishna B. , Britnell Sara R. , Gilbertson Megan E. , Ibrahim Sarai L.
Published: April 2022

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are commonly prescribed medications for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on cardiovascular benefits. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate efficacy and tolerability of once daily liraglutide vs once weekly semaglutide on T2DM in a Veteran population. Methods: This was a retrospective, single-center, cohort study that included T2DM patients with a prescription for liraglutide or semaglutide between September 1st, 2019, and September 30th, 2020. Patients between groups were matched based on age and insulin use at baseline. The primary endpoint was the difference in hemoglobin A1c (A1c) between the most recent A1c in the study period and baseline A1c obtained prior to GLP-1 RA initiation. Results: There were 154 patients included in the study. While mean reduction in A1c was numerically higher in the liraglutide group (−1.1% vs. −.8%), this was not statistically significant ( P = .22). The proportion of patients achieving A1c < 7%, < 8%, < 9%, or their patient-specific A1c goal did not differ between groups. Although baseline total daily doses of insulin were higher in the semaglutide group, these patients had numerically greater reductions in total daily dose of insulin and weight from baseline; however, no statistical difference was observed. Adverse drug reactions were more common in the semaglutide group (n = 14 vs. 9), leading to higher discontinuation rates as well (n = 11 vs. 8). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate no difference between liraglutide and semaglutide in terms of A1c-lowering potential, but it provides insights into key considerations for the Veteran population.
Hope, Purpose, and Religiosity: The Impact of Psychosocial Resources on Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms Among Middle-Aged and Older Blacks
Authors: Mitchell Uchechi A. , Nguyen Ann W. , Brown Lauren L.
Published: April 2022

Objective: We assessed the effects of hope, purpose in life, and religiosity on trajectories of depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older Blacks, with a focus on age differences in these associations. Methods: Data come from 1906 respondents from the 2006–2016 Health and Retirement Study. Linear mixed models were estimated and included interactions between age and time and between age and each psychosocial resource. Results: Depressive symptoms decreased for Blacks ages 51–64, did not change for those 65–74, and increased among Blacks age 75+. Hope and purpose in life were inversely associated with symptom levels but were not associated with change over time in symptomology. Associations were stronger among the youngest age group and weakest among the oldest. Religiosity was unrelated to depressive symptoms. Discussion: Psychosocial resources protect against depressive symptoms in age-dependent ways among middle-aged and older Blacks. Differences in these effects may be related to aging, cohort, and selection effects.
Bloody widows? Discourses of tradition and gender in Ghanaian politics
Authors: Diabah Grace
Published: April 2022

According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, although there have been steady increases in the number of women in politics, widespread gender inequalities persist. This is particularly pervasive in patriarchal societies where gender norms and practices are deeply entrenched, with socio-cultural barriers often cited as some of the key impediments to women’s search for political power. There have, therefore, been calls to remove such barriers for effective participation. Unfortunately, some events that occurred before Ghana’s 2020 election discourage, rather than encourage, women’s participation in governance. With data from articles, headlines and comments from various online media outlets, this paper examines three events that reinforce what may be called ‘a bloody widow discourse’ in Ghana’s politics. Using Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis, the paper shows how traditional norms and expectations associated with widowhood can be perceived as barriers to women’s (and not men’s) quest for political power, thereby sustaining the unequal gender and power relations in politics. The use of allusion, rhetorical questions and presuppositions further perpetuate a ‘blame-the-widow’ discourse which makes the women appear unworthy of the power they seek.
β-Asarone Protects PC12 Cells Against Hypoxia-Induced Injury Via Negatively Regulating RPPH1/MiR-542-3p/DEDD2 Axis
Authors: Yang Fan , Duan Hongyu , Ye Nannan , Zeng Yu , Yang Pengxiang , Shao Bo , Wang Chunyu , Lin Gaojun
Published: April 2022

Hypoxic injury to the brain is very intricate under the control of biochemical reactions induced by various factors and mechanisms. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have already been revealed to affect pathological processes in the nervous system of different degrees. This research aimed to investigate the mechanisms implicated in hypoxic brain injury. β-Asarone mitigated the decrease of cell viability, superoxide dismutase activity, and mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as the increase of cell apoptosis, lactate dehydrogenase release, malondialdehyde content, and reactive oxidative species production by cobalt chloride. LncRNA ribonuclease P RNA component H1 (RPPH1) was discovered to be highly expressed in hypoxia-induced PC12 cells, and β-Asarone addition led to a decline in RPPH1 expression. RPPH1 overexpression reversed the effect of β-Asarone on hypoxia-induced injury in PC12 cells. Furthermore, we proved that RPPH1 could sponge miR-542-3p. Subsequently, death effector domain containing 2 (DEDD2) was proven as the downstream gene of RPPH1/miR-542-3p axis. Eventually, the whole regulation mechanism of RPPH1/miR-542-3p/DEDD2 axis was testified through rescue assays. The impacts of β-Asarone on hypoxia-induced PC12 cells could be countervailed by RPPH1 augment, which was also discovered to be neutralized in response to miR-542-3p overexpression or DEDD2 depletion. These findings offered a novel perspective for understanding neuroprotection.
Understanding Relevance of Business Environment for Financial Performance: The Case of Asian Non-Banking Microfinance Institutions
Authors: Farooq Sadia , Ahmad Ashfaq , Liaqat Faiza , Ali Fouzia Hadi
Published: April 2022

Microfinance aims at providing productive loans to deprived segments of society that helps in poverty eradication. Existing studies ignore some essential factors of business environment, which can influence the performance of microfinance institutions. We have collected data from the Doing Business project of the World Bank and audited financial statements of 52 Asian non-banking microfinance institutions for the period of 2012–2016. This study has employed system method of moments (GMM) technique with xtabond2 command, and the findings of analyses reveal the significant impact of different business environmental factors such as getting credit, protecting minor investors and paying taxes on financial performance of selected institutions. These findings recommend that practitioners need to pay particular attention to the formulation of such policies that can help these institutions in coping better with their external business environment.
Development of an Advance Care Planning Policy within an Evidenced-Based Evaluation Framework
Authors: Hart Michelle , Stepita Rebecca , Berall Anna , Sokolowski Marcia , Karuza Jurgis , Katz Paul
Published: April 2022

Background: As the population is aging and medical advancements enable people to live longer, advance care planning (ACP) becomes increasingly important in guiding future care decisions; however, they are often incomplete or absent from the patient chart. This study describes the development and implementation of an ACP policy in a post-acute care and long-term care setting using a systematic implementation framework. Methods: A process evaluation that parallels the Replicating Effective Programs (REP) framework was used to understand stakeholder experiences with ACP and identify gaps in practice. Physicians, multidisciplinary staff, patients, and substitute decision makers engaged in focus groups and interviews, and completed surveys. A retrospective chart review determined Plan for Life Sustaining Treatment (PLST) form completion rates. Results: Stakeholder feedback identified barriers and facilitators to ACP including a need for staff training, user-friendly resources, and standardization of ACP practice. The PLST form was developed and embedded in the electronic medical record, and had a 92% and an 87% PLST completion rate on 2 pilot units. Conclusion: The study showed the usefulness of the REP model in guiding the evaluation as an effective tool to enhance implementation practices and inform ACP policy development that can be replicated in other organizations.
Three-Dimensional Assessment of Eustachian Tube in Patients With Cleft Palate Versus Controls: A CBCT Study
Authors: Hasani Mahvash , Ajami Shabnam , Farzinnia Golnoush
Published: April 2022

To compare the morphological characteristics of the Eustachian tube (ET) between patients with cleft palate and healthy controls with the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Retrospective assessment of treated nonsyndromic patients with cleft palate and a control group.

CBCT images of 51 patients with cleft palate who had previously undergone surgery to close the cleft palate and a control group of 51 patients were included in this study. Syndromic patients were excluded.

The cleft group were divided into 3 groups according to the palatoplasty technique, which was done in the infancy period to close the cleft palate (Nadjmi modification of Furlow, Sommerlad, and V-Y pushback). Finally, ET length (ETL), ET angle, and auditory tube angle (ATA) were measured in all patients.

The ETL, ETA, and ATA in the cleft and the normal control groups were 29.73 ± 3.14 and 32.18 ± 3.34 mm, 33.18 ± 2.57 and 35.40 ± 3.93, and 141.64 ± 4.13 and 138.87 ± 4.96, respectively. All 3 features were statistically significant among the groups (All Ps < .05). ETL and ETA were significantly higher in Nadjmi modification of Furlow and Sommerlad palatoplasty techniques compared to the V-Y pushback technique, while there was no significant difference in the ATA between the palatoplasty groups.

Cleft palate can significantly affect the morphological characteristics of the ET. Type of the infancy palatoplasty can influence some of its dimensions.
Photoimmunotherapy: A New Paradigm in Solid Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Peng Zheng , Lv Xiaolan , Huang Shigao
Published: April 2022

In recent years, the incidence of cancer has been increasing worldwide. Conventional cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, which mostly kill tumor cells at the expense of normal and immune cells. Although immunotherapy is an accurate, rapid, efficient tumor immune treatment, it causes serious adverse reactions, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an effective and nontoxic procedure for immunotherapy. The clinical combination of phototherapy and immunoadjuvant therapy can induce immunogenic cell death and enhance antigen presentation synergy. It also causes a systemic antitumor immune response to manage residual tumors and distant metastases. Photoimmunotherapy (PIT) is a tumor treatment combining phototherapy with immunotherapy based on injecting a conjugate photosensitizer (IR700) and a monoclonal antibody (mAb) to target an expressed antigen on the tumor surface. This combination can enhance the immune response ability, thus having a good effect on the treatment of residual tumor and metastatic cancer. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in photoimmunotherapy, including photoimmunoconjugate (PIC), the activation mechanism of immunogenic cell death (ICD), the combination therapy model, opportunities and prospects. Specifically, we aim to provide a promising clinical therapy for solid tumor clinical transformation.
Clinical Course and Predictors of Subsequent Recurrence and Survival of Patients With Ipsilateral Breast Tumor Recurrence
Authors: Baek Soo Yeon , Kim Jisun , Chung Il Yong , Ko Beom Seok , Kim Hee Jeong , Lee Jong Won , Son Byung Ho , Ahn Sei-Hyun , Lee Sae Byul
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical course and long-term outcomes of patients with ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and identify independent prognostic factors for further recurrence.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we reviewed the records of 327 patients who experienced IBTR after undergoing BCS for breast cancer at Asan Medical Center during 1990–2013. Overall survival (OS) after IBTR and cumulative incidence rates of recurrences after IBTR were calculated. The association of clinicopathological factors with survival and the development of further recurrence after IBTR was determined in multivariate analysis.

Results

At a median follow-up of 127.7 months, 97 patients experienced recurrence after IBTR. The 5-year and 10-year cumulative incidence rates of recurrence after IBTR were 32% and 41%, respectively. The 5-year and 10-year OS rates after IBTR were 86.6% and 70.3%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, hormone receptor negativity was associated with decreases in OS after IBTR (hazard ratio [HR] 2.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.18–6.78). Patients with longer disease-free interval (DFI) had decreased risks of second recurrence (HR .99, 95% CI .99–1.00), and second locoregional recurrence (LRR) (HR .98, 95% CI .97–.99). Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) of IBTR was associated with increased recurrence rates (second recurrence-free survival, HR 3.58, 95% CI 2.16–5.94; second LRR free survival, HR 5.21, 95% CI 2.77–9.78; second distant metastasis-free survival, 2.11, 95% CI 1.04–4.30) and lower survival rates (OS after IBTR, HR 4.64, 95% CI 2.23–9.67).

Conclusions

Despite subsequent recurrences during long-term follow-up, the survival rates after IBTR remained high. Patients with hormone receptor-negative tumors, shorter DFI, and tumors that present LVI of IBTR had higher risks for recurrence and poor survival rates after IBTR. The study findings may help in understanding the course and prognosis of IBTR patients and identifying high-risk IBTR to establish management strategies.
Mechanosensitive Ion Channels, Axonal Growth, and Regeneration
Authors: Miles Leann , Powell Jackson , Kozak Casey , Song Yuanquan
Published: April 2022

Cells sense and respond to mechanical stimuli by converting those stimuli into biological signals, a process known as mechanotransduction. Mechanotransduction is essential in diverse cellular functions, including tissue development, touch sensitivity, pain, and neuronal pathfinding. In the search for key players of mechanotransduction, several families of ion channels were identified as being mechanosensitive and were demonstrated to be activated directly by mechanical forces in both the membrane bilayer and the cytoskeleton. More recently, Piezo ion channels were discovered as a bona fide mechanosensitive ion channel, and its characterization led to a cascade of research that revealed the diverse functions of Piezo proteins and, in particular, their involvement in neuronal repair.
‘Whiny, Fake, and I Don't Like Her Hair’: Gendered Assessments of Mayoral Candidates
Authors: Tolley Erin , Lawlor Andrea , Fortier-Chouinard Alexandre
Published: April 2022

Municipal mayoral elections present a compelling puzzle: what happens when gendered stereotypes about level of government conflict with those about type of office? Although local politics is viewed as communal and more feminine, the mayoral office is a prominent, prestigious position of political leadership that voters may perceive as more masculine. We intervene by analyzing open-ended comments about 32 mayoral candidates from a survey of 14,438 municipal electors in eight Canadian cities. We argue gendered trait and issue stereotypes are embedded in voters’ assessments of mayoral candidates. We find no evidence that female candidates benefit from their perceived competence in local policy issues, and they experience backlash when they display the traits typically associated with strong leaders. We conclude that, even at the level of government frequently thought of as more open to women, female mayoral candidates are disadvantaged by an enduring association between masculinity and political leadership.
Autologous Iris transplant as plug for macular hole retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes
Authors: Tamburrelli Ciro , Rispoli Marco , Gentile Francesca , Tamburrelli Anna Clara
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To describe the anatomic and visual outcomes of eyes undergoing autologous iris transplantation for macular hole retinal detachment.

Methods

Seven consecutive patients with macular hole retinal detachment were enrolled in a single-arm prospective study. All patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy with autologous iris transplantation placed in the subretinal space as a plug to close the macular hole; in one case, a posterior retinal break was also closed with the same technique.

Results

Seven patients (2 males and 5 females) with a mean age of 69.14 ± 7.79 years (range 58–80 years) were followed up for a period of six months. The best-corrected visual acuity improved from 2.44 ± 0.48 logMAR (20/2000) preoperatively to 1.90 ± 0.26 logMAR (20/800) 6 months after surgery. Optical coherence tomography analysis showed retinal adhesion around the iris plug, and the retina remained dry in the follow-up period.

Conclusions

In this series of macular hole retinal detachments, autologous iris transplantation placed as a plug over the retinal pigment epithelium facing the macular hole opening or directly over the bare sclera achieved anatomical success with improvement in visual function.
Investigation of Some Gaseous and Trace Metal Emissions With Their Emission Factors From Various Brands of Mosquito Coils Used in Nigeria
Authors: Elehinafe Francis B , Okedere Oyetunji B , Oladimeji Temitayo E , Anabui Sarah O
Published: April 2022

Mosquito coils of various brands are frequently burnt in indoor environments to drive away mosquitoes—the vector for malaria parasite in regions where the disease is endemic. Emissions from the coils could be a source of indoor air pollution. In this study, various brands of mosquito coils obtained from retail shops in Lagos, Nigeria were burnt in an environmental test box with a view to characterizing carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the gaseous emissions as well as elemental concentrations of the ash. Emission characterization achieved with the RAS1700 bio-gas analyzer while AAS was adopted for elemental analysis of the mosquito coil ashes. The emission factor of CO, NO and NO2 from the coil samples ranged between 0.00138 to 0.26277 μg/m3, 0.0002 to 0.00454 μg/m3, and 0.000074 to 0.00714 μg/m3, respectively. These values were found to be lower than permissible indoor levels recommended by NIOSH. The range of concentrations of Pb, Zn, Cd, Cr, Cu, As, Hg, Fe in the coil ashes from all the brands were 0.02 to 0.04 mg/g, 0.011 to 0.02 mg/g, 0.001 to 0.003 mg/g, 0.004 to 0.008 mg/g, 0.004 to 0.006 mg/g, 0.0001 to 0.0004 mg/g, 0.001 to 0.003 mg/g, and 0.124 to 0.14 mg/g, respectively. Although, the concentrations of the pollutants obtained in this study are within the recommended limits, prolong exposure could trigger chronic disease conditions. Adequate ventilation of indoor environments or utilization of mosquito nets in place of coils could be considered.
Sex as self-injury: The appearance of a new diagnostic category in Sweden
Authors: Wall Ingrid , Johnsdotter Sara
Published: April 2022

“Sex as self-injury” is a well-established concept within Swedish society and is a new label for categorizing sexual risk-taking. The phenomenon has been discussed in Sweden since 2008, and about a decade later the concept appeared for the first time in Swedish scientific literature. “Sex as self-injury” is not yet an idea accepted by the international research field, but it can be assumed that it will eventually reach the international arena: the discourse about “self-destructive sex” has the potential to be established as a new diagnostic category of sexual dysfunction through “concept creep.” In this article, based on an analysis of media material from Sweden, we argue that the burgeoning discourse around “sex as self-injury” leads to a further strengthening of the normative division between “good” and “bad” sexualities, as described in Gayle Rubin’s work on a sex hierarchy.
Australian first-year university college residents’ alcohol consumption and alcohol-related harms
Authors: Corney Tim , du Plessis Karin
Published: April 2022

Aim: The study sought to develop an understanding of Australian first-year university residential college students’ alcohol consumption, their experience of alcohol-related harms and their alcohol knowledge. Method: Students were surveyed during Orientation Week in 2015 ( N = 84, men 36%) and again in 2017 ( N = 97, men = 45%) using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to measure alcohol consumption, and purpose-designed measures of alcohol-related harms and alcohol knowledge. Results: The mean AUDIT score across the two cohorts was 10.79, placing these first-year college residents at much riskier consumption levels than their Australian undergraduate and international peers. Three-quarters were consuming alcohol at hazardous/harmful levels. They reported frequent occurrence of alcohol-related harms and, given the higher levels of drinking, these were for the most part more pronounced than in other studies: vomiting (73%), memory loss (55%), regretting their actions when drinking (41%), not having enough money because of money spent on alcohol (31%), doing something dangerous just for fun (29%), being injured (27%), poor performance at work (22%), poor physical health (21%), loss of consciousness (20%), and having sexual encounters they later regretted (19%). Poor knowledge of standard drink measures, particularly in relation to blood alcohol concentration, was also indicated. Conclusions: The study highlights the worrying occurrence of hazardous/harmful drinking in Australian first-year university residential college students and high levels of alcohol-related harms experienced by these residents. It also highlights poor alcohol knowledge and the need for early intervention prior to and within university college residences to minimise harm.
A method for machine learning generation of realistic synthetic datasets for validating healthcare applications
Authors: Arvanitis Theodoros N , White Sean , Harrison Stuart , Chaplin Rupert , Despotou George
Published: April 2022

Digital health applications can improve quality and effectiveness of healthcare, by offering a number of new tools to users, which are often considered a medical device. Assuring their safe operation requires, amongst others, clinical validation, needing large datasets to test them in realistic clinical scenarios. Access to datasets is challenging, due to patient privacy concerns. Development of synthetic datasets is seen as a potential alternative. The objective of the paper is the development of a method for the generation of realistic synthetic datasets, statistically equivalent to real clinical datasets, and demonstrate that the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) based approach is fit for purpose. A generative adversarial network was implemented and trained, in a series of six experiments, using numerical and categorical variables, including ICD-9 and laboratory codes, from three clinically relevant datasets. A number of contextual steps provided the success criteria for the synthetic dataset. A synthetic dataset that exhibits very similar statistical characteristics with the real dataset was generated. Pairwise association of variables is very similar. A high degree of Jaccard similarity and a successful K-S test further support this. The proof of concept of generating realistic synthetic datasets was successful, with the approach showing promise for further work.
A hybrid damping control strategy for high-speed trains running on existing tracks
Authors: Wu Yi , Zeng Jing , Shi Huailong , Zhu Bin , Wang Qunsheng
Published: April 2022

With the rapid development of railways in China, effective coordination of the operation of high-speed trains on existing tracks can bring significant economic benefits to railway transportation. However, high-speed trains running on existing tracks will have to cope with larger track irregularities and navigate smaller curve radii, potentially increasing their vibrations. In order to improve the quality of operation of high-speed trains on existing railways, a self-adjusting hybrid damping control (SAHDC) strategy utilizing a fuzzy controller is adopted in this study. A secondary lateral magnetorheological damper (MRD) is controlled to balance the vibration between the car body, bogie, and wheelset. The MRD behavior is described using a viscoelastic-plastic (VEP) model and nonlinear autoregressive exogenous (NARX) inverse model. A dynamical vehicle model with 50 DOFs is constructed and simulated under different existing track conditions. The results show that the SAHDC can guarantee the required ride quality of the car body, while reducing the vibration of the bogie frame and wheelsets as much as possible during travel on straight and curved tracks and suppressing derailment on turnouts.
On the applicability limits of double-sided self-pierce riveting
Authors: Alves Luis M , Moghadam Marcel , Afonso Rafael M , Nielsen Chris V , Martins Paulo AF
Published: April 2022

This paper revisits double-sided self-pierce riveting to discuss the applicability limits related to the thickness of the sheets to be used in hidden lap joint connections. Special emphasis is given to thin sheets with thicknesses that are significantly smaller than those earlier reported in the literature. The overall methodology draws from experimental and numerical simulation to aspects related to the working principle of double-sided self-pierce riveting and geometric scalability of the chamfered tubular rivets. Results show that double-sided self-pierce riveting can be successfully applied in thin sheets and must be seen as an alternative to well-established joining processes such as conventional self-pierce riveting and resistance spot welding. In case of the latter, comparisons are made against double-sided self-pierce riveting regarding the force and energy requirements to assemble and destroy the resulting lap joints. Destruction of the joints is performed by means of shear tests and provides the maximum force and energy that both types of lap joints are capable to withstand without failure.
‘Do I have to say I’m gay?’: Using a video booth for public visibility and impact
Authors: Einarsdóttir Anna , Mumford Karen A , Siriviriyakul Sudthasiri , Sayli Melisa
Published: April 2022

Using data generated from a ‘video booth’, this paper explores how LGBT+ identifying individuals and allies navigate public visibility in front of a video camera. The video booth was set up in eight different NHS organisations in the UK to enable users to record short messages (30 s maximum) about their working life and/or experiences of LGBT+ employee networks, using a self-operated tablet system. The workplace context had an impact on how people represented themselves in front of the camera with prioritisation of professional identities and positive work-self. LGBT+ visibility was further masked by the inclusion of allies. We also discuss ethics and privacy issues related to using video booth methodology and signal how this methodology can best be used for future research purposes.
Simultaneous effect of CaCO3 nanoparticles and waste ground rubber tire powder on forced vibration of polypropylene nanocomposite plates: An experimental investigation
Authors: Rahmani Mahdi , Adamian Armen , Hosseini-Sianaki Ahmad
Published: April 2022

In this study, the effect of the simultaneous incorporation of different contents of CaCO3 nanoparticles (NPs) and waste ground rubber tire powder (WGRT) on the forced vibration behavior of polypropylene (PP) was experimentally investigated. Hammer test with modal analysis was performed to investigate the vibrational behavior of the composite plates with one edge clamped (CFFF) support condition. Microstructural assessment of composites using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) images showed that a rise in CaCO3 nanoparticles in small weight percentages led to better dispersion and a decline in the tire phase size in the small weight percentage of WGRT. Moreover, a comparison of the modal analysis results revealed that all ternary composites, except in the first mode, had a higher damped natural frequency than pure PP. The damping ratio of all ternary composites, especially in the first and second modes, was higher than pure PP, which is due to the combined effect of WGRT and CaCO3 nanoparticles in increasing energy dissipation and damping of composites.
Transforming lives through a literacy program: An exploration of adult learners’ experiences
Authors: Klauth Bo , Garza Mitchell Regina L
Published: April 2022

Nearly one-quarter of American adults have low-level literacy skills. Existing research provides a great deal of quantitative information about skill levels and attainment, but little information exists that highlights the contextualized experiences of adult learners. In this phenomenological study, we explored individual adult learners’ experiences in a community-based literacy program. A purposive sample of eight adult learners participated in semi-structured interviews. The study shows that the tutors’ caring and understanding attitude towards the learners, friendship relationships between the tutors and learners, and the tutors’ use of individualized interventions for their learners were vital in shaping their positive learning experience. The study also highlights how the learners’ motivation and support system played in helping them persist in the program. The literacy program transformed their lives and meant “a chance” for making a change.
Preexposure Prophylaxis Implementation in a Reproductive Health Setting: Perspectives From Planned Parenthood Providers and Leaders
Authors: Wilbourn Brittany , Ogburn Damon F. , Safon Cara B. , Galvao Rachel W. , Kershaw Trace S. , Willie Tiara C. , Taggart Tamara , Caldwell Abigail , Kaplan Clair , Phillips Nicole , Calabrese Sarah K.
Published: April 2022

Integrating pregnancy and HIV prevention services would make reproductive health care settings an optimal venue for the promotion and delivery of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to cisgender women. However, these settings have been slow to adopt PrEP. Planned parenthood clinicians and leaders possess critical insight that can help accelerate PrEP implementation in reproductive health care settings and elements of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (i.e., relative priority of the intervention to staff, implementation climate, available resources to implement the intervention, and staff access to knowledge and information about the intervention) can shed light on elements of Planned Parenthood’s inner setting that can facilitate PrEP implementation. In this study, individual 60-min interviews were conducted with clinical care team members ( n = 10), leadership team members ( n = 6), and center managers ( n = 2) to explore their perspectives on PrEP implementation and associated training needs. Transcripts were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed. Despite having variable PrEP knowledge, participants (100% women, 61% non-Hispanic White) expressed positive attitudes toward implementing PrEP. Barriers and facilitators toward providing PrEP were reported at the structural, provider, and patient levels. Participants desired PrEP training that incorporated culturally competent patient-provider communication. Although participants identified ways that Planned Parenthood uniquely enabled PrEP implementation, barriers must be overcome to optimize promotion and delivery of PrEP to cisgender women.
Early- and Mid-Term Results of Abdominal Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Using an Aortic Cuff Prior to the Main Body to Prevent Type II Endoleaks
Authors: Mikami Takuma , Kawaharada Nobuyoshi , Kamada Takeshi , Kuroda Yosuke , Yasuda Naomi , Sato Hiroshi , Naraoka Syuichi
Published: April 2022

Purpose:

Postoperatively persistent type II endoleaks (T2ELs) in abdominal endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) are known risk factors for long-term aneurysm enlargement. Therefore, various measures have been proposed to prevent T2ELs. Notably, the Kilt technique, which can be used in patients with dumbbell-shaped morphology, employs an aortic cuff deployed in the distal seal zone before the main body. Although previous studies have successfully applied this technique for preventing T2ELs, the mid- and long-term outcomes remain unclear. This study aimed to report the early- to mid-term outcomes in cases where an aortic cuff technique was used to prevent T2ELs.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective single-center study analyzed 9 patients (mean age, 79 years; range, 69–88 years; 8 men) with abdominal aortic aneurysms. All patients underwent EVAR using an aortic cuff to prevent T2ELs. The primary end points were technical success (successful deployment) and clinical success (no T2ELs). Secondary end points included morbidity, reintervention, and aortic remodeling during follow-up.

Results:

The technical success rate was 100%. There were no intraprocedural or postoperative complications. No deaths or reinterventions occurred. Postoperative computed tomography showed no endoleaks in 6 patients, while T2ELs from the lumbar artery outside the aortic cuff deployment range were noted in 3 patients. However, no T2ELs were observed in the artery in the aortic cuff deployment range in any patient. The average number of successfully occluded arteries was 4.2 (range, 2–8). All patients had follow-up >6 (mean, 18.6; range, 6–36) months. Aneurysm sac shrinkage occurred in 5 patients during the follow-up period, whereas aneurysm size was stable in 3 patients. In contrast, only 1 patient showed transient dilation of the aneurysm sac enlargement; however, this dilation remained unchanged even after 1.5 years.

Conclusion:

The aortic cuff technique is a favorable endovascular method for preventing T2ELs in EVAR. The present study showed that a single aortic cuff could easily and reliably occlude arteries branched from the aneurysm sac.
Quiet eye training during the rugby union goal-kick: Practice and transfer effects in low- and high-pressure conditions
Authors: Broodryk Retief , Moore Lee J. , Kruger Ankebe
Published: April 2022

The present study aimed to examine the effect of a quiet eye training (QET) intervention compared to a technical training (TT) intervention on the visual control and performance of rugby union goal-kickers. Male rugby union players ( n = 18, Mage = 21.35 years, SD = 2.03) were randomly assigned into a QET or TT group. Participants completed a pre-test, retention test 1, pressure test, and retention test 2 over six weeks, including a two-week intervention programme. The QET focussed on the QE and performance, while TT focussed on technical aspects of rugby goal-kicking. Each participant performed a total of 50 kicks that consisted of 15 kicks during the pre-test, retention test 1, and retention test 2, and five kicks during the pressure test. Using a Dikablis eye-tracker the QE was measured before (QE-pre), and during (QE-online), the run-up of the goal-kick. The results indicated that QE-pre durations increased from the pre-test to both retention tests and the pressure test for the QET group only (all p's < 0.05, all d's ≥ 0.08). The QET group also displayed longer QE-pre durations during the pressure and retention tests (all p's < 0.05, all d's ≥ 0.80), and longer QE-online durations during the pressure test ( d = 0.73), compared to the TT group. Finally, the QET group outperformed the TT group during the pressure test ( d = 0.72). Thus, overall, our results revealed that a short QET intervention benefitted attentional control and goal-kicking performance, particularly under high-pressure.