bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Outcomes of Combined Implantation of an Extended Depth of Focus IOL and a Trifocal IOL in a Korean Population
Authors: Song Ji Eun , Han So Young , Khoramnia Ramin , Tandogan Tamer , Auffarth Gerd U. , Choi Chul Young
Published: September 2021

Purpose. To evaluate monocular and binocular visual performance and patient-reported outcomes following combined implantation of a diffractive extended depth of focus (EDoF) IOL (Carl Zeiss AT LARA 829MP) and a diffractive trifocal IOL (Carl Zeiss AT LISA tri 839MP). Methods. This prospective study enrolled consecutive patients undergoing lens phacoemulsification of cataract and combined implantation of an EDoF IOL in the dominant eye and a trifocal IOL in the nondominant eye. Assessment included uncorrected visual acuity at near distances (UNVA), intermediate distances (UIVA), and far distances (UDVA), uncorrected defocus curve, contrast sensitivity (CS), reading speed, and patient satisfaction, evaluated six months after the surgery with the Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25). Results. A total of 25 patients were enrolled. At six months postoperatively, outcomes of binocular UNVA, UIVA, and UDVA were superior to those of monocular outcomes. The binocular defocus curve showed significantly better results in comparison with the AT LISA tri IOL eyes at defocus levels of −1.0 D and −1.5 D (

P
=
0.008

and

P
=
0.002

, respectively) and compared to the AT LARA IOL eyes at defocus levels of −3.0, −3.5 D, and −4.0 D (

P
=
0.019

,

P
=
0.019

, and

P
=
0.035

, respectively). All of the patients were spectacle-free at far and intermediate distances, while 4% of patients needed spectacles at the near distance. Reading speed showed a rather high and gentle slope curve between 0.1 logMAR and 0.4 logMAR, and optical phenomena were improved after combined implantation of IOLs except halos. There were no significant differences in CS between the binocular and monocular results of each IOL. Conclusions. The combined implantation of an EDoF IOL and a trifocal IOL seems to be a good option for patients with demands for spectacle independence in their daily life, with minimal photic phenomena.
Fault Identification of Rolling Bearing Using Variational Mode Decomposition Multiscale Permutation Entropy and Adaptive GG Clustering
Authors: He Tianjing , Zhao Rongzhen , Wu Yaochun , Yang Chao
Published: September 2021

The nonlinear and nonstationary characteristics of vibration signal in mechanical equipment make fault identification difficult. To tackle this problem, this paper proposes a novel fault identification method based on improved variational mode decomposition (IVMD), multiscale permutation entropy (MPE), and adaptive GG clustering. Firstly, the original vibration signal is decomposed into a set of mode components adaptively by IVMD, and the mode components that are highly correlated with the original signal are selected to reconstruct the original signal. After that, the MPE values of the reconstructed signal are calculated as feature vectors which can differentiate machinery conditions. Finally, low‐dimensional sensitive features obtained by principal component analysis (PCA) are fed into the adaptive GG clustering algorithm to perform fault identification. In this method, the residual energy ratio is used to find the optimal parameter K of the VMD and the PBMFfunction is incorporated into the GG to determine the number of clusters adaptively. Two bearing datasets are used to validate the performance of the proposed method. The results show that the proposed method can effectively identify different fault types.
Acute Cytotoxic Cerebellar Edema Subsequent to Fentanyl Patch Intoxication in an Infant
Authors: Haut Lindsey N. , Radhakrishnan Rupa , Lutfi Riad , Kao Louise W. , Ackerman Laurie L.
Published: September 2021

The opioid epidemic continues to have devastating consequences for children and families across the United States with rising prevalence of opioid use and abuse. Given the ease of access to these medications, accidental ingestion and overdose by children are becoming increasingly more common. The recognition of opioid-induced neurotoxicity and the associated life-threatening complication of acute cerebellar cytotoxic edema are crucial, as are the high morbidity and mortality without timely intervention. We discuss an infant with acute cytotoxic cerebellar edema following mucosal exposure to a transdermal fentanyl patch.
Study on the Mine Pressure Law and the Pressure Frame Mechanism of an Overlying Goaf in a Shallow Coal Seam
Authors: Zhou Haifeng , Huang Qingxiang , Liu Yingjie , He Yanpeng
Published: September 2021

To study the problems of dynamic load pressure and frame pressure caused by the concentration of stress by coal extraction pillars during the mechanized short‐distance mining of goaves in shallow coal seams, a frame pressure accident, in the Shendong Shigetai Coal Mine, during the overlying of a fully mechanized mining goaf is taken as a research example. By applying the field measurement, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation methods, we throughly analysed the working face coal pillar, got the regular pattern of fully mechanized overburden pressure, summarized a pillar of fully mechanized working face in the overburden strata movement regularity and development characteristics, analyzed the reason and mechanism of broken coal pillar, and put forward the corresponding prevention measures and management method. The results show that when the fully mechanized mining face enters the goaf by about 3 m, the pressure arches of the lower coal face and the upper goaf arising from the extracted coal overlap. When the vertical stress is greater than the supporting force of the hydraulic support and the coal wall, a roof ejection accident may occur.
The Novel Nucleoside Analogue ProTide NUC-7738 Overcomes Cancer Resistance Mechanisms In Vitro and in a First-In-Human Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Schwenzer Hagen , De Zan Erica , Elshani Mustafa , van Stiphout Ruud , Kudsy Mary , Morris Josephine , Ferrari Valentina , Um In Hwa , Chettle James , Kazmi Farasat , Campo Leticia , Easton Alistair , Nijman Sebastian , Serpi Michaela , Symeonides Stefan , Plummer Ruth , Harrison David J. , Bond Gareth , Blagden Sarah P.
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

Nucleoside analogues form the backbone of many therapeutic regimens in oncology and require the presence of intracellular enzymes for their activation. A ProTide is comprised of a nucleoside fused to a protective phosphoramidate cap. ProTides are easily incorporated into cells whereupon the cap is cleaved and a preactivated nucleoside released. 3′-Deoxyadenosine (3′-dA) is a naturally occurring adenosine analogue with established anticancer activity in vitro but limited bioavailability due to its rapid in vivo deamination by the circulating enzyme adenosine deaminase, poor uptake into cells, and reliance on adenosine kinase for its activation. In order to overcome these limitations, 3′-dA was chemically modified to create the novel ProTide NUC-7738.

Experimental Design:

We describe the synthesis of NUC-7738. We determine the IC50 of NUC-7738 using pharmacokinetics (PK) and conduct genome-wide analyses to identify its mechanism of action using different cancer model systems. We validate these findings in patients with cancer.

Results:

We show that NUC-7738 overcomes the cancer resistance mechanisms that limit the activity of 3′-dA and that its activation is dependent on ProTide cleavage by the enzyme histidine triad nucleotide-binding protein 1. PK and tumor samples obtained from the ongoing first-in-human phase I clinical trial of NUC-7738 further validate our in vitro findings and show NUC-7738 is an effective proapoptotic agent in cancer cells with effects on the NF-κB pathway.

Conclusions:

Our study provides proof that NUC-7738 overcomes cellular resistance mechanisms and supports its further clinical evaluation as a novel cancer treatment within the growing pantheon of anticancer ProTides.
Transforming Growth Factor-β1/Smad Signaling in Glomerulonephritis and Its Association with Progression to Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chalkia Aglaia , Gakiopoulou Harikleia , Theohari Irini , Foukas Periklis G. , Vassilopoulos Dimitrios , Petras Dimitrios
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a multifunctional cytokine, with diverse roles in fibrosis and inflammation, which acts through Smad signaling in renal pathology. We intended to investigate the expression of TGF-β/Smad signaling in glomerulonephritis (GN) and to assess its role as risk factor for progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: We evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of TGF-β1, phosphorylated Smad3 (pSmad3), and Smad7 semiquantitatively and quantitatively using computerized image analysis program in different compartments of 50 renal biopsies with GN, and the results were statistically analyzed with clinicopathological parameters. We also examined the associations among their expressions, the impact of their co-expression, and their role in progression to CKD. Results: TGF-β1 expression correlated positively with segmental glomerulosclerosis (p= 0.025) and creatinine level at diagnosis (p = 0.002), while pSmad3 expression with interstitial inflammation (p = 0.024). In glomerulus, concomitant expressions of high Smad7 and medium pSmad3 were observed to be correlated with renal inflammation, such as cellular crescent (p = 0.011), intense interstitial inflammation (p = 0.029), and lower serum complement (C) 3 (p = 0.028) and C4 (p = 0.029). We also reported a significant association between pSmad3 expression in glomerular endothelial cells of proliferative GN (p = 0.045) and in podocytes of nonproliferative GN (p = 0.005). Finally, on multivariate Cox-regression analysis, TGF-β1 expression (hazard ratio = 6.078; 95% confidence interval: 1.168–31.627; p = 0.032) was emerged as independent predictor for CKD. Discussion/Conclusion: TGF-β1/Smad signaling is upregulated with specific characteristics in different forms of GN. TGF-β1 expression is indicated as independent risk factor for progression to CKD, while specific co-expression pattern of pSmad3 and Smad7 in glomerulus is correlated with renal inflammation.
Effect of Statins on the Risk of Different Stages of Prostate Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Yun , Cheng Xuan , Zhu Jia-lian , Luo Wen-wen , Xiang Huai-rong , Zhang Qi-zhi , Peng Wen-xing
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The aim of this article was to investigate the relationship between statins and the risk of different stages or grades of prostate cancer. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed for articles published until December 18, 2020, on the PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases. The pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were then analyzed using the STATA.16.0 software. Results: A total of 588,055 patients from 14 studies were included in the analysis. We found that the use of statins expressed a significant correlation with a lower risk of advanced prostate cancer (RR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.73–0.91; RR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.75–0.99, respectively). However, no evidence suggested that the use of statins was beneficial for the prevention of localized prostate cancer incidence. Similarly, the pooled results also revealed no association between the use of statins and the risk of high-grade and low-grade prostate cancer. Conclusion: It has been found that the use of statins is associated with a lower risk of advanced prostate cancer but was not related to the risk of localized, low-grade, or high-grade prostate cancer.
The Desert Hedgehog Signalling Pathway in Human Gonadal Development and Differences of Sex Development
Authors: Pachernegg Svenja , Georges Elizabeth , Ayers Katie
Published: September 2021

While the Hedgehog signalling pathway is implicated in numerous developmental processes and maladies, variants in the Desert Hedgehog (DHH) ligand underlie a condition characterised by 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis with or without peripheral neuropathy. We discuss here the role and regulation of DHH and its signalling pathway in the developing gonads and examine the current understanding of how disruption to this pathway causes this difference of sex development (DSD) in humans.
Occupational Safety in Chemosensitivity Tests: A Method to Minimize the Risk of Contamination While Maximizing the Safety for the Examiner
Authors: Henrich Manfred , Hartung Svenja , Herden Christiane
Published: September 2021

In vitro chemosensitivity tests are a widely used and established method in research. In laboratory environments, work safety is particularly important when working with carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic (CMR) substances. When working with cell cultures, minimizing the risk of contamination with CMR substances and protecting the experimenter must be in the foreground of the experimental setup since risk minimization and occupational safety when handling CMR substances are mandatory. To minimize any personnel risk, studies with solid CMR substances should be carried out in a closed system. However, publications on occupational health and safety in laboratory environments in which CMR substances are tested in cell cultures are rare. Therefore, this article presents an easily applicable and safe method for improving work safety for in vitro chemosensitivity tests when working with CMR substances while also taking cell culture hygiene into account. For this purpose, a risk assessment of the test design was carried out, and the steps that were decisive for safety were highlighted. Some user-friendly and easily reproducible elements are presented, which increase the occupational safety of in vitro chemosensitivity assays, especially by reducing the risk of personnel contamination.
Reference Values for Umbilical Artery Lactate by Mode of Delivery and Gestational Age: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Gaertner Vincent D. , Bassler Dirk , Zimmermann Roland , Fontijn Jehudith R.
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Umbilical artery cord blood provides information about the intrauterine metabolism during labor. Umbilical artery lactate is a useful parameter in predicting neonatal morbidity, but data on normal values are limited. We aimed to provide reference ranges of umbilical artery lactate values across the combination of gestational age and mode of delivery. Methods: A single-center retrospective observational study of liveborn infants born between 23 and 42 completed weeks gestation was conducted. Lactate, base deficit (BD), and pH from arterial cord blood were assessed between June 2018 and November 2020 and compared across gestational ages and modes of delivery. Results: Overall, there were 3,353 infants with evaluable data. Lactate values at the 50th, 90th, and 97th percentile were 3.4, 7.0, and 9.0 mmol/L. Lactate was inversely correlated with pH (r = −0.77, p < 0.001) and positively correlated with BD (r = 0.63, p < 0.001). Lactate values changed significantly across gestational age (Kruskal-Wallis test, p < 0.001) which was attributable to an increase in lactate at 39–41 weeks gestational age. Also, lactate values were different across modes of delivery (Kruskal-Wallis test, p < 0.001) with lowest values in elective CS and highest values in vaginal instrumental deliveries. Comprehensive reference ranges across modes of delivery and gestational ages could be established. Discussion: Mode of delivery and gestational age contribute to lactate levels with highest values occurring in vaginal instrumental deliveries and between 39 and 41 weeks gestational age. Based on these observations, we provide detailed reference ranges for clinical use.
Laboratory Monitoring of Mother, Fetus, and Newborn in Hemolytic Disease of Fetus and Newborn
Authors: Dziegiel Morten Hanefeld , Krog Grethe Risum , Hansen Anne Todsen , Olsen Marianne , Lausen Birgitte , Nørgaard Lone Nikoline , Bergholt Thomas , Rieneck Klaus , Clausen Frederik Banch
Published: September 2021

Background: Laboratory monitoring of mother, fetus, and newborn in hemolytic disease of fetus and newborn (HDFN) aims to guide clinicians and the immunized women to focus on the most serious problems of alloimmunization and thus minimize the consequences of HDFN in general and of anti-D in particular. Here, we present the current approach of laboratory screening and testing for prevention and monitoring of HDFN at the Copenhagen University Hospital in Denmark. Summary: All pregnant women are typed and screened in the 1st trimester. This serves to identify the RhD-negative pregnant women who at gestational age (GA) of 25 weeks are offered a second screen test and a non-invasive fetal RhD prediction. At GA 29 weeks, and again after delivery, non-immunized RhD-negative women carrying an RhD-positive fetus are offered Rh immunoglobulin. If the 1st trimester screen reveals an alloantibody, antenatal investigation is initiated. This also includes RhD-positive women with alloantibodies. Specificity and titer are determined, the fetal phenotype is predicted by non-invasive genotyping based on cell-free DNA (RhD, K, Rhc, RhC, RhE, ABO), and serial monitoring of titer commences. Based on titers and specificity, monitoring with serial peak systolic velocity measurements in the fetal middle cerebral artery to detect anemia will take place. Intrauterine transfusion is given when fetal anemia is suspected. Monitoring of the newborn by titer and survival of fetal red blood cells by flow cytometry will help predict the length of the recovery of the newborn.
Abdominal Viscera Migration Performing Hemodynamic Instability after Esophagectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Torres de Lima Ian , Bianchi Edno Tales , Lunardi Aranha Gabriel , Camargo Azevedo Beatriz , Naccache Namur Guilherme , Pirola Kruger Jaime Arthur
Published: September 2021

Hiatal hernia is a rare postoperative complication of esophagectomy in the treatment of esophageal cancer. Although rare, its incidence increased after the establishment of minimally invasive surgical techniques. The patient is usually oligosymptomatic, and the diagnosis is made in the late postoperative period, during outpatient follow-up. The initial presentation of hiatus hernia with hemodynamic instability is a rare condition that has never been described in the literature before. In the following report, we address the clinical picture, diagnosis, and treatment for this condition, discussing the main nuances of the literature.
HIV Infection and the Risk of World Health Organization–Defined Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Freiberg Matthew S. , Duncan Meredith S. , Alcorn Charles , Chang Chung‐Chou H. , Kundu Suman , Mumpuni Asri , Smith Emily K. , Loch Sarah , Bedigian Annie , Vittinghoff Eric , So‐Armah Kaku , Hsue Priscilla Y. , Justice Amy C. , Tseng Zian H.
Published: September 2021

Background

People living with HIV have higher sudden cardiac death (SCD) rates compared with the general population. Whether HIV infection is an independent SCD risk factor is unclear.

Methods and Results

This study evaluated participants from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study, an observational, longitudinal cohort of veterans with and without HIV infection matched 1:2 on age, sex, race/ethnicity, and clinical site. Baseline for this study was a participant's first clinical visit on or after April 1, 2003. Participants were followed through December 31, 2014. Using Cox proportional hazards regression, we assessed whether HIV infection, CD4 cell counts, and/or HIV viral load were associated with World Health Organization (WHO)–defined SCD risk. Among 144 336 participants (30% people living with HIV), the mean (SD) baseline age was 50.0 years (10.6 years), 97% were men, and 47% were of Black race. During follow‐up (median, 9.0 years), 3035 SCDs occurred. HIV infection was associated with increased SCD risk (hazard ratio [HR], 1.14; 95% CI, 1.04–1.25), adjusting for possible confounders. In analyses with time‐varying CD4 and HIV viral load, people living with HIV with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm
3
(HR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.28–1.92) or viral load >500 copies/mL (HR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.46–1.98) had increased SCD risk versus veterans without HIV. In contrast, people living with HIV who had CD4 cell counts >500 cells/mm
3
(HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.90–1.18) or HIV viral load <500 copies/mL (HR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.87–1.09) were not at increased SCD risk.

Conclusions

HIV infection is associated with increased risk of WHO‐defined SCD among those with elevated HIV viral load or low CD4 cell counts.
Model Operations: Morphogenesis and the Design Process
Authors: Höfler Carolin
Published: September 2021

Since the emergence of digital design techniques in combination with so-called responsive materials, the concept of organic forms in architecture seems to be gaining a new quality. The resemblance to an organism should no longer apply only superficially but be inscribed in the materiality as well as in the history of origin and functioning. This article addresses these new transformative effects between architecture and biology. They are presented primarily in relation to the structural architecture of the 1960s and the computational architectural systems since the 1990s. One focus of architecture is on dynamic forms that adapt themselves to their environment by means of flexible materials and generative algorithms. Here, architecture as technically animated matter no longer involuntarily competes with creative nature but is seen as part of a reciprocal relationship. This reciprocal relationship is specified by recourse to various architectural models. The models’ approaches suggest that organic-looking forms are generated by simulated biological processes. The article examines this claim of the models from the perspective of the history of architecture and design. It shows how, since the mid-twentieth century, a renewal of architectural design practice has been sought by reformulating morphological questions at the intersection of biological and cybernetic discourses.
Species of Wadicosa (Araneae, Lycosidae): a new species from Madagascar
Authors: KRONESTEDT TORBJÖRN
Published: September 2021

Since establishing the wolf spider genus Wadicosa Zyuzin, 1985 (Zyuzin 1985), eleven species have been accepted in it, either by transfer from Lycosa Latreille, 1804 or Pardosa C.L. Koch, 1847 or by original designation (WSC 2017). However, according to Kronestedt (1987), additional species wait to be formally transferred to Wadicosa. The genus is restricted to the Old World, with one species, Wadicosa jocquei Kronestedt, 2015, recently described from Madagascar and surrounding islands.
A new species of Polyipnus (Stomiiformes: Sternoptychidae) from the Western South Pacific
Authors: VOUREY ELODIE , DUPOUX CYNDIE , HAROLD ANTONY SCOTT
Published: September 2021

A new species of marine hatchetfish, Polyipnus laruei sp. nov., is described based on one specimen collected off New Caledonia, in the Western South Pacific. This species is distinguished from the thirty-three known species of Polyipnus by the unique presence of only one OVB photophore. The new species is placed in the P. spinosus species group, characterized by the presence of minute spines on the ventral PV photophore scales and an external multispinate posttemporal process.
On some species of Gyrophaenina Kraatz 1856 of Sri Lanka and India (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae: Homalotini)
Authors: ENUSHCHENKO ILYA V. , SHAVRIN ALEXEY V.
Published: September 2021

New taxonomic and diagnostic data for 17 species of Encephalus Kirby, 1832, Gyrophaena Mannerheim, 1830 and Phanerota Casey, 1906 of Sri Lanka and India are provided. Eight species are redescribed: G. (Gyrophaena) furcata (Motschulsky, 1858), G. (G.) indica Motschulsky, 1858, G. (G.) kashmirensis Bernhauer, 1923, G. (G.) livida Motschulsky, 1858, G. (G.) permutaria Schubert, 1906, G. (G.) sexualis Cameron, 1939, G. (G.) soror Bernhauer, 1923, and Ph. (Acanthophaena) appendiculata (Motschulsky, 1858). The following new synonymies are established: G. (G.) cognata Cameron, 1939 = G. setiensis Pace, 2006 syn.n., G. (G.) indica = G. granulifera Kraatz, 1859 syn.n., G. cicatricosa Motschulsky, 1858 syn.n., G. rigida Motschulsky, 1858 syn.n., G. nigrides Newton, 2017 (replacement name for G. nigra Motschulsky 1859) syn.n., G. trifida Motschulsky, 1859 syn.n., G. (G.) livida = G. curtula Motschulsky, 1859 syn.n., and G. (G.) tripartita Cameron, 1939 = G. annapurnensis Pace, 2006 syn.n. Lectotypes for G. (G.) furcata, G. (G.) indica, G. (G.) kashmirensis, G. (G.) livida, G. (G.) soror Bernhauer, 1923, Ph. (Acanthophaena) appendiculata and Ph. (A.) rufiventris (Cameron, 1920) comb.n. (from Gyrophaena) are designated. The habitus of all taxa, aedeagi and apical abdominal sclerites of all species of Gyrophaena and Phanerota are illustrated. Gyrophaena (G.) jumlicola Pace, 2006 is recorded from India for the first time.
Additions to the Neoserica calva group from continental South East Asia (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae: Sericini)
Authors: AHRENS DIRK , PHAM PHU VAN
Published: September 2021

In this paper we revise the species of the Neoserica calva group from continental South East Asia, which was so far known only from China. Here we describe 11 new species from Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam: Neoserica allosigillata Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. axelkalliesi Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. chetaoensis Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. diplospinosa Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. fragilis Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. ihlei Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. judsoni Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. peregovitsi Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. rufoplagiatoides Ahrens & Pham, new species, N. sharkeyi Ahrens & Pham, new species, and N. tramton Ahrens & Pham, new species.
Jurassic brachyurans of the genus Bucculentum
Authors: KRZEMIŃSKA EWA , STARZYK NATALIA , FRAAIJE RENÉ H. B. , SCHWEIGERT GÜNTER , LUKENEDER ALEXANDER
Published: September 2021

The genus Bucculentum Schweitzer & Feldmann, 2009 is exceptional among the brachyuran decapods in having the augenrest dorsally inclined. Hitherto, the genus comprised two species, both from European Upper Jurassic localities; here, further two species are described, Bucculentum horstkuscheli, n. sp. and B. plettenbergense, n. sp., which differ in their proportions of the carapace regions and especially in their shapes of the augenrest. A newly described feature shared by all congeneric species is the groove extending from the centre of the dorsal portion of the augenrest and terminating towards the cervical groove. The function of this groove could have been to lead the water stream out from the augenrest to cleanse impurities from the muddy sea bottom, where these crabs are supposed to have lived.
Fans of Q: The Stakes of QAnon’s Functioning as Political Fandom
Authors: Reinhard CarrieLynn D. , Stanley David , Howell Linda
Published: September 2021

Affective activation, and the community engagement it fosters, is the driving mechanism of all fandoms, irrespective of the specific “objects of affection” around which they coalesce. These centralized objects of affection may hail from popular culture, such as in the form of sports teams, television shows, cartoon characters, or musicians. As fan scholars have increasingly recognized, fandoms can also emerge around profit-driven brands, specific politicians, and social movements. Much has been said regarding the dangers of the online conspiracy theory QAnon. However, these warnings have tended to overemphasize the rapidly evolving, amorphous beliefs of its adherents, rather than recognize the affective activation propelling the movement. Through its analysis of affect-driven communities, the field of fan studies can be productively applied to investigate the online discursive activities of QAnon community members. Framing QAnon as a fandom elucidates the functions through which the conspiracy theory radicalizes “normies” by exploiting the types of fan activities already well-established in mainstream fan communities. Underscoring the transferability of fan studies concepts to political movements and communities, this exploration outlines the societal stakes of QAnon’s manipulation and normalization of the toxic emotions cohering its adherents into a fanatic community.
The Need for Studies on Oral Corticosteroids After Sialendoscopy for Obstructive Salivary Gland Disease: Systematic Review
Authors: Donaldson Gabriella , de Paiva Leite Sandro , Hardcastle Tim , Ahmad Zahoor , Morton Randall P.
Published: September 2021

Objectives:

This qualitative systematic review evaluates the evidence in support of the use of oral corticosteroids in patients undergoing sialendoscopy for the treatment of obstructive sialadenitis.

Design:

Qualitative systematic review.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted from January 1985 and September 2020. Inclusion criteria embraced peer-reviewed articles in which adult patients undergoing interventional sialendoscopy for obstructive salivary gland disease received oral corticosteroids. The results were initially screened based on title and abstract, and the remaining articles were reviewed for eligibility.

Results:

About 218 papers were selected by title and abstract, 96 were selected for full-text review, and 9 met the inclusion criteria. Eight published reports were retrospective observational studies and 1 was a prospective comparative study. Overall, the heterogeneity of clinical data stood out in this systematic review. The pooled success rate in the studies was 873/979 (89%). Only 5 studies described a rationale for oral corticosteroid use as part of the post-operative management. In 4 studies, a prednisone total daily dose of 40 to 50 mg was used. One study clearly showed a lower recurrence rate in patients who received oral steroids for more than 7 days in addition to sialendoscopy for management of ductal stenoses.

Conclusion:

This systematic review showed that most centers that prescribe oral corticosteroids after sialendoscopy are unaware of the specific results with this treatment. For ductal stenoses, only 1 paper clearly showed the benefits of oral corticosteroids after sialendoscopy but more high-quality evidence is required in the form of a comparative study or randomized controlled trial, with appropriate long-term follow up.
Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (Micro-FT-IR) Spectroscopy to Enhance Repeatability and Reproducibility of Spectra Derived from Single Specimen Organic-Walled Dinoflagellate Cysts
Authors: Meyvisch Pjotr , Gurdebeke Pieter R. , Vrielinck Henk , Neil Mertens Kenneth , Versteegh Gerard , Louwye Stephen
Published: September 2021

The chemical composition of recent and fossil organic-walled dinoflagellate cyst walls and its diversity is poorly understood and analyses on single microscopic specimens are rare. A series of infrared spectroscopic experiments resulted in the proposition of a standardized attenuated total reflection micro-Fourier transform infrared-based method that allows the collection of robust data sets consisting of spectra from individual dinocysts. These data sets are largely devoid of nonchemical artifacts inherent to other infrared spectrochemical methods, which have typically been used to study similar specimens in the past. The influence of sample preparation, specimen morphology and size and spectral data processing steps is also assessed within this methodological framework. As a result, several guidelines are proposed which facilitate the collection and qualitative interpretation of highly reproducible and repeatable spectrochemical data. These, in turn, pave the way for a systematic exploration of dinocyst chemistry and its assessment as a chemotaxonomical tool or proxy.
The Impact of Social Infrastructure and Physical Infrastructure on Economic Growth in Punjab, India
Authors: Singh Jagmohan
Published: September 2021

Against the backdrop of socio-economic crisis and declining role of the state in infrastructure development, this article evaluates the inter-district disparities in social infrastructure (SI) and physical infrastructure (PI), and consequently attempts to examine the impact of SI and PI on economic growth in Punjab at two points in time, that is, 2004–2005 and 2016–2017. For this purpose, a district level social infrastructure index (SII) and a district level physical infrastructure index (PII) encapsulating 12 and 10 indicators, respectively, have been computed employing principal component analysis. The findings of the study revealed that PI acts as a pivotal catalyst to accelerate economic growth, whereas SI does not demonstrate any significant association with economic growth in Punjab. Furthermore, it is observed that pervasive inter-district disparities exist in SI and PI development and the majority of the districts depict a gloomy picture of infrastructure development in Punjab.
New Age in Australia: Social transmission and the quest for meaning
Authors: Hoo Misha
Published: September 2021

The emergence of New Age spirituality in Western cultures during the 1960s and 1970s has been described as a rejection of traditional values, fuelled by disillusionment with the Christian church and a feeling of alienation in mainstream social and work environments. While New Age has been characterised as a ‘turning away’ from dominant cultural ideologies, there is comparatively less discussion about what New Age actors are ‘turning towards’ in their pursuit of subjective spirituality. Research from Australia demonstrates that individuals were primarily searching for deeper meaning and looking for spiritual answers when they first engaged with New Age pursuits. In addition, social and intergenerational transmission are both important factors in the cultivation of New Age spirituality.
The expression of matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in the vein wall following superficial venous thrombosis
Authors: Yu Guoting , Li Kun , Xu Yongbo , Chu Haibo , Zhan Hanxiang , Zhong Yuxu
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Superficial venous thrombosis (SVT) is the complications of varicose great saphenous veins (VGSVs), but its pathogenesis remains unclear. This study was designed to measure the changes in expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) from SVT, VGSVs, and great saphenous veins (GSVs).

Methods

In the venous walls of the three groups, the expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 proteins, protein-positive expression ratios, mRNA expression, and protein expression were determined by immunohistochemistry, polymerase chain reaction, and western blot.

Results

The MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 protein-positive expression ratios, mRNA and protein expression in the SVT group were significantly higher than those in the VGSV and the GSV groups. The corresponding expression in the VGSV group were significantly higher than those in the GSV group.

Conclusion

Disequilibrium of MMPs and TIMPs in SVT wall occurs due to underlying high hydrostatic pressure and inflammation. These results suggested that MMPs and TIMPs participate in the process of venous wall remodeling.
Dynamic Modal Analysis of a Passenger Bus: Theoretical and Numerical Studies
Authors: Lopes Rogério , Farahani Behzad V. , de Melo Francisco Q. , Ramos Nuno V. , Moreira Pedro M. G. P.
Published: September 2021

The dynamic assessment of a passenger bus is of the highest importance when aiming at high safety standards and low emissions for environmental sustainability. This work studies the dynamic response of a bus considering its modal analysis, for which simple dynamic models were developed for fast determination of the lowest frequencies, mainly arising from the suspension flexibility. In addition, complex natural vibration modes, impossible to determine using simplified models, were calculated via finite element method (FEM) modeling. To study the tire elastic behavior, as the key link between the vehicle and the road, specific deformation models, leading to a stiffness matrix to be combined with that of the vehicle spring suspension at each wheel/axis, were developed. This study aims at proposing a set of mathematical formulations to describe the modal behavior of passenger buses in detail, which could be applicable in any other long vehicle with similar conditions. Two main factors are studied, namely the suspension and the tire deformation effect. An acceptable agreement was verified between the simplified approach and FEM model results for the evaluation of natural frequencies and associated modes.
Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone and Hamstring Tendon Autografts for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Wenli , Leng Xi , Wang Jian , Cheng Jin , Hu Xiaoqing , Ao Yingfang
Published: September 2021

Background:

The best type of autograft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remains debatable.

Hypothesis:

Compared with bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) and hamstring tendon (HT) autografts, the quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft has comparable graft survival as well as clinical function and pain outcomes.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library to July 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting comparisons of QT versus BPTB or HT autografts for ACL reconstruction were included. All analyses were stratified according to study design: RCTs or observational studies.

Results:

A total of 24 studies were included: 7 RCTs and 17 observational studies. The 7 RCTs included 388 patients, and the 17 observational studies included 19,196 patients. No significant differences in graft failure ( P = .36), the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective score ( P = .39), or the side-to-side difference in stability ( P = .60) were noted between QT and BPTB autografts. However, a significant reduction in donor site morbidity was noted in the QT group compared with the BPTB group (risk ratio [RR], 0.17 [95% CI, 0.09-0.33]; P < .001). No significant differences in graft failure ( P = .57), the IKDC subjective score ( P = .25), or the side-to-side stability difference ( P = .98) were noted between QT and HT autografts. However, the QT autograft was associated with a significantly lower rate of donor site morbidity than the HT autograft (RR, 0.60 [95% CI, 0.39-0.93]; P = .02). A similar graft failure rate between the QT and control groups was observed after both early and late full weightbearing, after early and late full range of motion, and after using the QT autograft with a bone plug and all soft tissue QT grafts. However, a significantly lower rate of donor site morbidity was observed in the QT group compared with the control group after both early and late full weightbearing, after early and late full range of motion, and after using the QT autograft with a bone plug and all soft tissue QT grafts. No difference in effect estimates was seen between RCTs and observational studies.

Conclusion:

The QT autograft had comparable graft survival, functional outcomes, and stability outcomes compared with BPTB and HT autografts. However, donor site morbidity was significantly lower with the QT autograft than with BPTB and HT autografts.
Rehabilitation and Return to Sport Criteria Following Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kemler Bryson R. , Rao Somnath , Willier Donald P. , Jack Robert A. , Erickson Brandon J. , Cohen Steven B. , Ciccotti Michael G.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction (UCLR) is a viable treatment option for patients with UCL insufficiency, especially in the overhead throwing athlete. Within the clinical literature, there is still no universally agreed upon optimal rehabilitation protocol and timing for return to sport (RTS) after UCLR.

Hypothesis:

There will be significant heterogeneity with respect to RTS criteria after UCLR. Most surgeons will utilize time-based criteria rather than functional or performance-based criteria for RTS after UCLR.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

All level 1 to 4 studies that evaluated UCLR with a minimum 1-year follow-up were eligible for inclusion. Studies lacking explicit RTS criteria, studies that treated UCL injury nonoperatively or by UCL repair, or studies reporting revision UCLR were excluded. Each study was analyzed for methodologic quality, RTS, timeline of RTS, and RTS rate.

Results:

Overall, 1346 studies were identified, 33 of which met the inclusion criteria. These included 3480 athletes across 21 different sports. All studies reported RTS rates either as overall rates or via the Conway-Jobe scale. Timelines for RTS ranged from 6.5 to 16 months. Early bracing with progressive range of motion (ROM) (93.9%), strengthening (84.8%), and participation in an interval throwing program (81.8%) were the most common parameters emphasized in these rehabilitation protocols. While all studies included at least 1 of 3 metrics for the RTS value assessment, most commonly postoperative rehabilitation (96.97%) and set timing after surgery (96.97%), no article completely defined RTS criteria after UCLR.

Conclusion:

Overall, 93.9% of studies report utilizing bracing with progressive ROM, 84.8% reported strengthening, and 81.8% reported participation in an interval throwing program as rehabilitation parameters after UCLR. In addition, 96.97% reported timing after surgery as a criterion for RTS; however, there is a wide variability within the literature on the recommended time from surgery to return to activity. Future research should focus on developing a comprehensive checklist of functional and performance-based criteria for safe RTS after UCLR.
Interpersonal Violence Around Pregnancy Experienced by Rural and Urban Canadian Women: Correlates and Selected Health Outcomes
Authors: Su Yingying , D’Arcy Carl
Published: September 2021

Interpersonal violence around pregnancy is of increasing global public health concern affecting both women themselves and their children. The primary aim of this study is to explore and identify potential correlates of such violence and to examine maternal and birth outcomes subsequent to that violence in a nationally representative sample of urban and rural women in Canada. The data are from the Maternity Experiences Survey (MES), a Canadian population-based postcensus survey administered to 6,421 Canadian mothers in 2006. Survey participants were 15 years and older and had given birth to a singleton and continued to live with their infant at the time of the survey. The survey response rate was 78%. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used in the analysis with adjustments made for confounding variables. The study findings indicated that living in an urban environment was associated with an increased risk of interpersonal violence experience around the time of pregnancy ( OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.03-1.66). In addition, being aboriginal, young, unmarried, economically disadvantaged, a nonimmigrant, and having more than four pregnancies, as well as cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking and drug use before the pregnancy were correlated with interpersonal violence around pregnancy. Maternal interpersonal violence experiences were also associated with postnatal depression and stressful life events among both urban and rural mothers. However, maternal interpersonal violence experiences were only associated with preterm birth among rural mothers but not among urban mothers. The present study highlights the need to implement effective interventions for women experiencing interpersonal violence around pregnancy due to its potential impact on maternal and newborn’s physical and mental health. Screening and intervention should be targeted high-risk women particularly those who are indigenous, young, unmarried, nonimmigrants, of lower socioeconomic status, and manifesting high risk health behaviors.
Impact of quasi-isotropic raster layup on the mechanical behaviour of fused filament fabrication parts
Authors: John Lovin K , Murugan Ramu , Singamneni Sarat
Published: September 2021

The development of fused filament fabrication has extended the range of application of additive manufacturing in various areas of research. However, the mechanical strength of the fused filament fabrication–printed parts were considerably lower than that of parts fabricated by other conventional methods, owing to the observed anisotropic behaviour and formation of voids by weak interlayer diffusion. Intense studies on the effect of design and process parameters of the printed parts on the mechanical properties have been done, whereas studies on the effect of build orientations and raster patterns needs special concern. The main aim of this work is to fabricate parts printed using quasi-isotropic laminate arrangement of rasters, achieved by a raster layup of [45/0/−45/90]s, and to compare their mechanical properties with those of the commonly used 0°/90° (cross) and 45°/−45° (crisscross) raster oriented parts. The quasi-isotropic–oriented samples were observed with improved mechanical behaviour in tensile, compressive, flexural and impact tests compared to the commonly employed raster orientations.
Pollen productivity estimates strongly depend on assumed pollen dispersal II: Extending the ERV model
Authors: Theuerkauf Martin , Couwenberg John
Published: September 2021

Pollen productivity estimates (PPEs) are a key parameter for quantitative land-cover reconstructions from pollen data. PPEs are commonly estimated using modern pollen-vegetation data sets and the extended R-value (ERV) model. Prominent discrepancies in the existing studies question the reliability of the approach. We here propose an implementation of the ERV model in the R environment for statistical computing, which allows for simplified application and testing. Using simulated pollen-vegetation data sets, we explore sensitivity of ERV application to (1) number of sites, (2) vegetation structure, (3) basin size, (4) noise in the data, and (5) dispersal model selection. The simulations show that noise in the (pollen) data and dispersal model selection are critical factors in ERV application. Pollen count errors imply prominent PPE errors mainly for taxa with low counts, usually low pollen producers. Applied with an unsuited dispersal model, ERV tends to produce wrong PPEs for additional taxa. In a comparison of the still widely applied Prentice model and a Lagrangian stochastic model (LSM), errors are highest for taxa with high and low fall speed of pollen. The errors reflect the too high influence of fall speed in the Prentice model. ERV studies often use local scale pollen data from for example, moss polsters. Describing pollen dispersal on his local scale is particularly complex due to a range of disturbing factors, including differential release height. Considering the importance of the dispersal model in the approach, and the very large uncertainties in dispersal on short distance, we advise to carry out ERV studies with pollen data from open areas or basins that lack local pollen deposition of the taxa of interest.
Forget-me-not? Using Immersive Technologies in Brand-building Communication Processes: An Exploratory Study in the Mexican Context
Authors: Rivera-Pesquera Martha , Cacho-Elizondo Silvia , Duran-Dergal Rafael
Published: September 2021

New immersive technologies (NITs) can be an ally or a rival when it comes to brand relationships. Given the multiplicity of options, marketers need to understand their customers also as audiences seeking experiences. However, such experiences need to exist within a company’s digital ecosystem. This study presents an analysis of six companies that have used NITs to varying degrees. We propose a framework in which more cases of NIT usage in companies can be studied. We conclude that the more the initiatives come from a company’s top-management overall ecosystem transformation, the more likely NIT adoption will fit into a general strategy for a brand-strengthening process and the more it will be effective. This exploratory analysis opens up a path for building new frameworks to measure a company’s degree of involvement with and usage of interactive technologies.