bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antithrombotic management for Impella® temporary ventricular assist devices: An analysis of an academic health-system experience
Authors: Iskaros Olivia , Ahuja Tania , Arnouk Serena , Toy Bridget , Lewis Tyler , Altshuler Diana , Smith Deane , Papadopoulos John , Merchan Cristian
Published: March 2022

The use of acute mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has increased over the last decade. For patients with left-ventricular failure, an Impella® (Abiomed, Danvers, MA) may be used to improve cardiac output. The purpose of this study is to describe Impella® anticoagulation patterns and evaluate the safety and effectiveness of our protocol. This is a retrospective review of all adult patients who required at least 24 h of Impella® support and received a heparin-based purge solution. In total, 109 patients were included in the final analysis. The most common indication for Impella® device insertion was cardiogenic shock (76%) with the remaining patients receiving a device for a high-risk procedures; typically coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous coronary intervention. A total of 9 thrombotic events occurred among 8 (7%) patients and 50 bleeding events occurred among 43 (39%) patients, with the most common classification being BARC 3a (60%). A univariate analysis revealed that patients were more likely to bleed if they were less than 65 years old, had an indication of cardiogenic shock for Impella®, inserted the device peripherally, were on dual antiplatelet therapy, or had an intra-aortic balloon pump prior to Impella® insertion, the latter of which was confirmed with a multivariate analysis (OR 2.5 [1.072–5.830]; p = 0.034). For those monitored by anti-Xa, the presence of two or more values greater than 0.40 IU/mL was a risk factor for bleeding ( p = 0.037). Our study identifies risk factors for bleeding in patients receiving temporary MCS with an Impella®.
A Standardized Step-by-Step Approach for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sepsis
Authors: Gao Yang , Wang Hong liang , Zhang Zhao jin , Pan Chang Kun , Wang Ying , Zhu Yu cheng , Xie Feng jie , Han Qiu yuan , Zheng Jun bo , Dai Qing qing , Ji Yuan yuan , Du Xue , Chen Peng fei , Yue Chuang shi , Wu Ji han , Kang Kai , Yu Kai jiang
Published: March 2022

Sepsis is the major culprit of death among critically ill patients who are hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs). Although sepsis-related mortality is steadily declining year-by-year due to the continuous understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism on sepsis and improvement of the bundle treatment, sepsis-associated hospitalization is rising worldwide. Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) guidelines are continuously updating, while their content is extremely complex and comprehensive for a precisely implementation in clinical practice. As a consequence, a standardized step-by-step approach for the diagnosis and treatment of sepsis is particularly important. In the present study, we proposed a standardized step-by-step approach for the diagnosis and treatment of sepsis using our daily clinical experience and the latest researches, which is close to clinical practice and is easy to implement. The proposed approach may assist clinicians to more effectively diagnose and treat septic patients and avoid the emergence of adverse clinical outcomes.
Book review: Nivi Manchanda, Imagining Afghanistan: The History and Politics of Imperial Knowledge
Authors: Bhat Tahir Rashid
Published: March 2022

Nivi Manchanda, Imagining Afghanistan: The History and Politics of Imperial Knowledge. Cambridge University Press, 2020, pp. vii+266, ₹7,000 (hardback), ISBN 978-1-108-49123-5.
Morita therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Di , Jiang Meina , Tian Yixin , Zhao Fengjun , Jia Yong
Published: March 2022

Objective

To assess the clinical efficacy of Morita therapy in combination with pharmacotherapy in adults who were diagnosed with current OCDs.

Methods

We searched 10 databases to identify articles written in English or Chinese that were published until 15 April 2021. Randomized controlled trials were included. Two authors of this review independently selected the studies, assessed the risk of bias, and extracted the data.

Results

Twenty-one studies with a total of 1604 participants met the inclusion criteria. Morita therapy plus pharmacotherapy was significantly superior to pharmacotherapy alone in the efficiency of OCD (RR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.26 to 1.44, I 2 = 0%), and better in reducing OCD severity symptoms (MD = −3.55, 95% CI: −4.34 to −2.75, I 2 = 80%).

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis and systematic review suggest that Morita therapy may be an effective approach to improve OCDs.
Three-dimensional Changes of Maxillary Alveolar Morphology After Using Modified Nasoalveolar Molding in Patients with Complete Unilateral Cleft lip and Palate
Authors: Chaisooktaksin Nuntabhorn , Chimruang Jutharat , Worasakwutiphong Saran , Tansalarak Ratchawan
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the three-dimensional changes in maxillary alveolar morphology after using modified NAM in patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate.

Design

This is a retrospective study.

Setting

The study was carried out in the dental hospital, Faculty of Dentistry of Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, which serves as a tertiary care center.

Patients

The population sample consisted of 19 patients with nonsyndromic complete unilateral cleft lip and palate.

Intervention

All patients received the modified NAM treatment based on the treatment protocol of the Naresuan University Cleft and Craniofacial Center, Thailand.

Main Outcome Measure

Dental models obtained at pre-treatment (T0) and post-treatment (T1) were scanned to construct the digital models. The maxillary digital models that showed dimensional changes between T0 and T1 were measured using a computer graphic software.

Results

The modified NAM resulted in a significant decrease in the anterior cleft width, posterior cleft width, and anterior arch width. Conversely, it caused a significant increase in the length of the lesser cleft segment and the greater segment rotation. However, the change in the height of both segments and posterior arch width was not found to be significant.

Conclusions

The modified NAM was an effective device for reducing the alveolar cleft width while improving the alignment of alveolar cleft segments.
Confession as a Matter of Death and Life in Foucault and Bonhoeffer
Authors: Lakies Chad D.
Published: March 2022

Confession is a central practice in the life of the church. In this paper, I engage two thinkers on the nature and power of confession: Michel Foucault and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Foucault considers confession to be a means of control and domination, a technology which ultimately dehumanizes, depoliticizes, and perhaps even erases the self. Bonhoeffer considers confession to be truly liberating. However, the liberation he describes is a form of self-transcendence wherein a new creation emerges—a new self embodied by an “other-in-me.” Foucault offers an important critical perspective on the power of confession in our time but does not fully account for its enduring role in human life. I turn to Bonhoeffer whose work innovatively answers Foucault's objections. Even more, Bonhoeffer accounts for the critical role confession plays in human life. His construal ought to help us better understand why we want to confess and are seemingly compelled to do so.
Guardians of Democracy or Passive Bystanders? A Conjoint Experiment on Elite Transgressions of Democratic Norms
Authors: Saikkonen Inga A.-L. , Christensen Henrik Serup
Published: March 2022

Emerging literature shows that citizens in established democracies do not unconditionally support central democratic principles when asked to weigh them against co-partisanship or favored policy positions. However, these studies are conducted in highly polarized contexts, and it remains unclear whether the underlying mechanisms also operate in more consensual contexts. Furthermore, it is unclear whether “critical citizens” or satisfied democrats are more eager to support democratic principles. We study these questions with evidence from a conjoint experiment conducted in Finland ( n = 1030), an established democracy with high levels of democratic satisfaction and a consensual political culture. We examine how transgressions of two central democratic norms, the legitimacy of political opposition and the independence of the judiciary, affect leader favorability. We also explore how these differ across ideological and policy congruence and across levels of political disaffection. Our results show that some segments of the Finnish population are willing to condone authoritarian behavior if this brings them political benefits. Furthermore, we find that satisfied rather than “critical” citizens are more likely to sanction such behavior. These findings suggest that dangers of democratic deconsolidation may appear even in consensus democracies with relatively low levels of political polarization.
Radiation optic neuropathy diagnosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with radiation encephalopathy
Authors: Li Zijing , Zhan Zongyi , Lai Yitao , Fang Qianqi , Lan Yuqing
Published: March 2022

Aim

To develop a suitable radiation optic neuropathy (RON) diagnostic model based on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and to reveal the correlation between endocrine and OCTA indexes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients with radiation encephalopathy (RE).

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study included seventy-seven male NPC patients with RE following radiotherapy (41 non-RON and 36 RON). Endocrine and OCTA indexes were collected. The macular and peripapillary vessel density (VD) were automatically analyzed using AngioVue 2.0 of the RTVue XR Avanti device. The OCTA indexes were included in the multivariable binary logistic regression model between non-RON and RON. For all RE patients, a multiple linear regression was performed between each of the OCTA indexes and the endocrine indexes.

Results

Compared to non-RON, enlarged foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, reduced superficial vascular plexus (SVP) VD and radial peripapillary capillary plexus density, reduced full retinal thickness, ganglion cell complex thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness were observed in RON. Foveal VD in the SVP was included in the RON diagnostic model. Free triiodothyronine (FT3) showed a significantly negative correlation with the FAZ area but showed a significantly positive correlation with foveal VD in the SVP and deep vascular plexus, peripapillary VD and thickness and parafoveal and perifoveal thickness.

Conclusions

OCTA may be useful for diagnosing RON in male NPC patients with RE following radiotherapy. Reduced FT3 and foveal VD in SVP may be sensitive in screening RON in these patients.
Metatranscriptomics Analysis Reveals Diverse Viral RNA in Cutaneous Papillomatous Lesions of Cattle
Authors: Fernandes Adriana O , Barros Gerlane S , Batista Marcus VA
Published: March 2022

Bovine papillomavirus (BPV) is associated with bovine papillomatosis, a disease that forms benign warts in epithelial tissues, as well as malignant lesions. Previous studies have detected a co-infection between BPV and other viruses, making it likely that these co-infections could influence disease progression. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and annotate viral genes in cutaneous papillomatous lesions of cattle. Sequences were obtained from the GEO database, and an RNA-seq computational pipeline was used to analyze 3 libraries from bovine papillomatous lesions. In total, 25 viral families were identified, including Poxviridae, Retroviridae, and Herpesviridae. All libraries shared similarities in the viruses and genes found. The viral genes shared similarities with BPV genes, especially for functions as virion entry pathway, malignant progression by apoptosis suppression and immune system control. Therefore, this study presents relevant data extending the current knowledge regarding the viral microbiome in BPV lesions and how other viruses could affect this disease.
Relevance of Integrated Air, Soil and Water Research Studies for the New Millennia
Authors: Rodrigo-Comino Jesús , Bandala Erick R. , Latif Mohd Talib
Published: March 2022

Our ecosystems are facing changes at a local andglobal scale because of human interventions. These transformations are a result of drastic urbanization, rapid industrialization, and natural resources exploitation to provide livelihoods and commodities for the increasing population. Recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic or cross-bordering conflicts are not delaying these changes. To understand these changes, increasing efforts of the scientific community to find sustainable solutions is vital as it is consistent financial support from governments and scientific agencies. Air, Soil and Water Research (ASW) Editorial Board envision multidisciplinary and transversal research as an interesting strategy to develop knowledge and useful datasets which can directly benefit society through efficient land management plans.
A hybrid acoustic structure for low-frequency and broadband underwater sound absorption
Authors: Jia Xinyu , Jin Guoyong , Shi Kangkang , Bu Chunyang , Ye Tiangui
Published: March 2022

The underwater anechoic coating with local resonant units is an effective method to achieve low-frequency sound absorption. However, the structure obtained in this way is not satisfactory in the sound absorption effect of mid-high frequency bands. Capitalizing on the impedance gradient characteristics of functionally graded materials (FGMs) can improve the impedance matching between the structure and the medium, and enhance the dissipation of sound waves inside the structure. Based on these, we propose an underwater acoustic structure, which can improve and obtain low-frequency and broadband sound absorption performance by embedding local resonators into FGMs. To reveal the sound-absorbing mechanism and further optimize the low-frequency absorption performance of the structure, we conduct quantitative analyses on the parameters of FGMs, the materials and forms of resonators. The results indicate that by appropriately adjusting the studied parameters, different low-frequency sound-absorbing peak can be obtained and the absorption effects are also further improved.
Computing colorism: skin tone in online retail imagery
Authors: Butkowski Chelsea , Humphreys Lee , Mall Utkarsh
Published: March 2022

A long legacy of media imagery persistently distorts, stereotypes, and ignores marginalized racial and ethnic groups despite widespread calls to diversify media representations. In particular, fashion and beauty media continue to feature light-skinned models and celebrities over dark-skinned individuals, even lightening dark skin with photo editing to achieve ideals of whiteness and lightness. This practice aligns with colorism, or the privileging of light skin tones for access to economic and social capital. This study examines colorism in a particular genre of digital photography, online retail images, as a problem of visual representation. The novel method of visual computational analysis is used to quantitatively compare how mainstream clothing retail brands represent model skin tones across still and video media modes. The findings suggest that analyzed retailers tended to favor light-skinned models on their websites and that model skin tones in product videos were significantly darker than in product photos. These findings are considered through research on race and technology, photographic manipulation, and media misinformation. Ultimately, the study suggests that visual (in)consistencies can reveal the role of structural biases in shaping media representations. The article also provides a methodological tool for conducting this work.
Resilient by design: Informing pandemic-safe building redesign with computational models of resident congestion
Authors: Ortner F. Peter , Tay Jing Zhi
Published: March 2022

This paper describes a computational design-support tool created in response to safe-distancing measures enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The tool was developed for a specific use case: understanding congestion in crowded migrant worker dormitories that experienced high rates of COVID-19 transmission in 2020. Building from agent-based and network-based computational simulations, the tool presents a hybrid method for simulating building resident movements based on known or pre-determined schedules and likely itineraries. This hybrid method affords the design tool a novel approach to simultaneous exploration of spatial and temporal design scenarios. The paper demonstrates the use of the tool on an anonymised case study of a high-density migrant worker dormitory, comparing results from a baseline configuration against design variations that modify dormitory physical configuration and schedule. Comparisons between the design scenarios provide evidence for reflections on pandemic-resilient design and operation strategies for dormitories. A conclusions section considers the extent to which the model and case study results are applicable to other dense institutional buildings and describes the paper’s contributions to general understanding of configurational and operational aspects of resilience in the built environment.
Adaptable modular construction systems and multi-objective optimisation strategies for mass-customised housing: A new user-driven paradigm for high-rise living in Hong Kong
Authors: Ma Chun Yu , van Ameijde Jeroen
Published: March 2022

There has been a recent increase in the exploration of ‘the discrete’ in architecture, speculating on how an integrated approach to design, fabrication, assembly and inhabitation can disrupt the traditional investment- and decision-making models in the housing industry. Strategically designed part-to-whole systems allow for differentiation and reconfiguration, and the incorporation of different end-user’ requirements. This potential of ‘democratising’ housing production requires further research into how the negotiation between multiple stakeholders’ preferences can be guided through digital methods. This paper presents a research-by-design project that applies a digital and discrete material system to high-rise housing in Hong Kong, a typology which often features high degrees of standardisation. Through the development of an adaptable modular construction system and a multi-objective optimisation workflow, a system is explored that addresses the challenges of high-rise construction, and of customising high-density housing. The case study project demonstrates the ability of the workflow’s evolutionary algorithm to balance complex requirements including maximising views, daylight access and internal connectivity according to diverse user requirements.
Integrating Photovoice and Citizen Science: The Our Voice Initiative in Practice
Authors: Zha Caroline C. , Jansen Brice , Banchoff Ann , Fernes Praveena , Chong Jennifer , Castro Vanessa , Vallez-Kelly Theresa , Fenton Mark , Rogers Jayna , King Abby C.
Published: March 2022

Community engagement methods like photovoice have allowed researchers to gather and incorporate the experiences and perspectives of community members in their work but have at times faced challenges regarding systematization, accessibility, and scalability. This practice note describes the Our Voice initiative, one example of a community-based participatory research framework that aims to build on photovoice theories and best practices and address these challenges by incorporating the use of a mobile app as well as elements of participatory action-based citizen science to support community-driven data collection, analysis, and advocacy. We explore the application of the Our Voice method and evaluation of multilevel participant and community outcomes across three different Bay Area, California, communities. In doing so, we hope to provide a potential example for practitioners of other community-based participatory research and photovoice-based models to draw from when working with diverse communities to integrate local perspectives and insights in the generation and implementation of sustainable community health improvements.
Photovoice as a Method to Reduce the Stigma of Mental Illness Among Health Care Students
Authors: Tippin Gregory K. , Maranzan K. Amanda
Published: March 2022

Photovoice is theorized to influence those who interact with the photos and captions, and so it is important to examine and further understand this mechanism. This article seeks to further our understanding of this critical process—that is, what is the impact of the Photovoice Artist’s stories on the viewing audience? Herein we demonstrate how an incarnation of photovoice, digital storytelling, and photo elicitation impacted mental illness stigma among health sciences students. By focusing on application beyond the original exhibition, this article highlights how photovoice methods and aims overlap with best practices in stigma reduction, and its fit with multimodal anti-stigma interventions. Overall, this study contributes to addressing the question of how photovoice can be applied to achieve action for social change.
Emancipatory Photovoice Research: A Primer
Authors: Evans-Agnew Robin A. , Rosemberg Marie-Anne S. , Boutain Doris M.
Published: March 2022

Photovoice can be more than a research method for communities to identify and mitigate social oppressions. Photovoice has the potential for emancipatory outcomes and the transformation of power relations. This article serves as a primer for beginning researchers who are new to the emancipatory power of the photovoice method or for advanced researchers who would like to re-imagine their current use of the photovoice method to an emancipatory approach that elevates and empowers. Our purpose is to provide a framework for deciding structures, processes, and outcomes of emancipatory photovoice. We specifically prescribe steps with respect to power relations among partners, design prompts or heuristics, and the anticipated and unanticipated outcomes. We base our perspectives on over a decade of photovoice research experiences. Emancipatory photovoice research, if implemented thoughtfully, can facilitate power sharing, collective learning, healing, and growth.
Research Engagement in a Virtual World: Strategies for Maintaining the Power and Impact of Photovoice Research Online
Authors: Breny Jean M. , McMorrow Shannon L.
Published: March 2022

When our photovoice research intersected with the COVID-19 pandemic, we were thrust into a new world of adapting the method in the virtual environment. Between both authors, we had over two decades of experience implementing photovoice. However, that involved tried and true methods of working face to face and side by side with people in community-based settings. This article describes lessons learned from two virtual photovoice projects. One involved pivoting from a project already well underway in person to online and the other was designed for virtual implementation since that was the only option available. Key considerations discussed are navigating our institutional review boards, adapting project management, building community online, and sharing results and advocacy for social change. Dilemmas and key decisions in each of these areas are described for practitioners and community-based researchers who need or seek to transition their photovoice research to the virtual environment. Practical tips and strategies for implementation are described and offered to photovoice researchers.
Balloon Gliding Technique: A novel use of balloon guiding catheters in accessing challenging circulations when treating acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Abdalkader Mohamad , Sahoo Anurag , Lee John , Kiley Nicole , Masoud Hesham E. , Norbash Alexander M. , Nguyen Thanh N.
Published: March 2022

Background

Challenging arterial anatomy delays, or prevents timely endovascular treatment (EVT) of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We introduce a new technique called ‘Balloon Gliding Technique (BGT)’ to overcome difficult arterial anatomy during EVT of AIS, utilizing flow-assistance to access challenging circulations.

Methods

Retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of all patients presenting to a single institution with AIS who underwent EVT was performed from January 2021 to June 2021. Patients in whom BGT was performed were assessed. BGT consists of advancing the balloon guide catheter in the cervical carotid artery while its balloon is inflated, and therefore carried by downstream flow.

Results

Of 51 patients presenting with AIS secondary to large vessel occlusion during the study period, five patients underwent BGT. All five patients had anterior circulation large vessel occlusions. Mean age of the BGT patients was 92.2 years, and all patients were females. A type 3 arch was present in all patients. BGT was performed in all cases following initial failure of conventional techniques to cannulate the target circulation. BGT was successful in achieving distal cervical carotid access in 4 out of the 5 patients in whom BGT was attempted. Successful recanalization (modified treatment in cerebral ischemia 2b-3) was obtained in all cases with no complications.

Conclusions

Balloon Gliding Technique (BGT) is a safe technique that can safely overcome challenging anatomy during endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke. Further studies can assist in demonstrating both its safety and effectiveness.
The relationship between ultrasonographic plaque morphology and histopathology of embolic material captured in the protective filter during carotid artery stenting
Authors: Karacif Onur , Ergun Onur , Taşkın Türkmenoğlu Tuğba , Conkbayır Işık , Durmaz Hasanali , Hekimoğlu Azad , Hekimoğlu Baki
Published: March 2022

Purpose

We aimed to correlate the presence or absence of embolic debris in filter-type embolic protection devices (EPD), which are frequently used during carotid artery stenting (CAS), with possible risk factors and ultrasonographic plaque features.

Materials and Methods

Eighty patients, who underwent CAS using a filter-type EPD in the period between July 2016 and March 2019, were included in our study. The modified Gray-Weale classification (mGWC) subtypes obtained in the pre-procedural ultrasonographic examinations were recorded. In addition, other patient-related risk factors considered to be related to a distal embolism were recorded. After the procedure the filters were evaluated to detect and examine embolic debris in the pathology clinic. The presence and features of embolic debris in the filters were recorded.

Results

In the examinations performed after CAS, embolic debris was macroscopically and microscopically detected in 22 (27%) and 34 (42.5%) of the filter-type EPDs, respectively. A significant correlation was found between the change in the mGWC category of stenotic plaques from type 5 to type 1 and the presence of embolic debris in the filter (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between stenotic segment length and the presence of embolic debris in the filter (p < 0.05). The presence of embolic debris was not statistically significantly related to predisposing risk factors for atherosclerosis (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

During CAS, the likelihood of the presence of embolic debris in the EPDs increases as mGWC categories change from type 5 to type 1 and as the length of the stenotic segment increases.
Developing Poetry as a Research Methodology with Rarer Forms of Dementia: Four Research Protocols
Authors: Camic Paul M. , Harding Emma , Sullivan Mary Pat , Grillo Adetola , McKee-Jackson Roberta , Wilson Lawrence , Zimmermann Nikki , Brotherhood Emilie V. , Crutch Sebastian J.
Published: March 2022

People living with rarer forms of dementia tend to have progressive cognitive symptoms affecting skills other than memory and/or onset before the age of 65 years. They are often misdiagnosed and due to symptom profile or age of onset, do not usually fit well with care pathways designed for older people with typical Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia. Although the arts have been increasingly used as interventions to support people with dementia, there is very little attention given to rarer dementia forms in arts and health research or practice. The objective of the present international study seeks to systematically explore four diverse forms of poetry writing within this population through virtual and in-person small and large group formats. Our approach includes investigating poetic processes as methodology through the lens of an arts-based methodological approach in order to explore how poems construct knowledge and a felt experience. We will also use more traditional qualitative approaches to understand the experience of writing, reading and listening to poetry as an intervention that can be used with different rarer forms of dementia. To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first study to explore poetry using multiple research protocols. The results will have implications for methodology development, co-constructed poetic inquiry and multiple opportunities for involving poetry in supporting people with dementia and family members.
Renal impairment and the prognosis of endovascular thrombectomy: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Wang Rui , Xie Zechun , Li Bo , Zhang Peng
Published: March 2022

Background:

The association between renal impairment (RI) and stroke outcome after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) remains unclear, which limits the estimation of patient prognosis by clinicians involved in EVT decision-making.

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate the association between RI and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) outcomes in patients treated with EVT.

Methods:

Studies involving the association between RI at admission and AIS outcomes after EVT were retrieved from the PubMed and Embase databases from their inception to 17 January 2022. A fixed-effects model was used to synthesize the data of the included studies. Sensitivity analysis was performed to identify the source of heterogeneity.

Results:

Overall, 11 studies, including 5053 patients with stroke receiving EVT, were included in the full analysis. In unadjusted analyses, RI was associated with 3-month poor functional outcome and mortality; the odds ratios (ORs) were 2.13 [10 studies; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.77–2.56; I2 = 45%] and 2.42 (8 studies; 95% CI, 2.02–2.90; I2 = 58%), respectively. In adjusted analyses, the above associations remained significant; the OR of the 3-month poor functional outcome was 1.49 (5 studies; 95% CI, 1.17–1.90; I2 = 58%), and the OR of the 3-month mortality was 1.84 (6 studies; 95% CI, 1.45–2.33; I2 = 74%). Similar results were obtained in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that in patients with AIS who underwent EVT, RI at admission was associated with 3-month poor functional outcome and mortality.
Unlimited Surrounding: A Scoping Review on the Impact of the Built Environment on Health, Behavior, and Quality of Life of Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities in Long-Term Care
Authors: Roos Jacqueline , Koppen Gemma , Vollmer Tanja C. , Van Schijndel-Speet Marieke , Dijkxhoorn Yvette
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

To identify available literature on the impact of built environments on health, behavior, and quality of life of individuals with intellectual disabilities in long-term care. Additionally, we aimed to map the available literature, (re)frame the overall research situation in this area, and formulate recommendations.

Background:

Long-term care facilities in the Netherlands are planned without using knowledge from research regarding evidence-based design because it is unclear what evidence is available about the impact of long-term care built environments on individuals with intellectual disabilities receiving 24/7 care.

Methods:

Twelve scientific databases were searched for keyword combinations. After systematically screening 3,095 documents, 276 were included in the analysis.

Results:

There is an underrepresentation of research and publications in intellectual disabilities, compared to other user groups living in long-term care facilities. A total of 26 design components were found in all groups; as for intellectual disabilities, research was available on only seven of them. Community care, home-likeness, and variety seem to have a positive effect on health, behavior, and quality of life. There are conflicting results regarding the effects of house size.

Conclusions:

Although individuals with intellectual disabilities live in long-term care facilities, sometimes for life, little research has been conducted on the impact of the built environment on them. In the future, more empirical research should be conducted, addressing all aspects of quality of life and specific design components, with hypotheses based on needs assessments and the use of good research designs. This requires an investment of time and funding.
Do weather parameters affect the incidence of renal colic in a predominantly warm country? A multicenter study
Authors: Golomb Dor , Goldberg Hanan , Lavi Arnon , Kafka Ilan , Kleinmann Nir , Shvero Asaf , Verchovsky Guy , Boyarsky Leonid , Darawasha Abd Elhalim , Sadeh Omer , Mekayten Matan , Stav Nir , Lifshitz David
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

To determine whether there is any effect of weather parameters on the incidence of renal colic patients presenting to emergency rooms (ERs) during the hottest season in Israel.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective multicenter study involved all ER admissions related to renal colic in nine centres throughout Israel between 2010 and 2017. The collected data included the date of ER visits, the patients’ age and sex, and the weather features of ambient temperature, wind velocity, noon heat index, and barometric pressure. Multivariable logistic regression analyses identified predictors of increased ER visits for renal colic.

Results:

There were 85,501 renal colic-related ER visits during the study period, involving 62,935 (74%) males and 22,566 (26%) females ( p < 0.005). The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of the males and females was 50 ± 5.8 and 48 ± 19.6 years, respectively ( p = 0.1). Most of the ER arrivals were in the 31- to 50-year-old age group (37%, 31,508) ( p = 0.02). The maximal ambient temperature (odds ratio (OR) = 2.213, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.148–2.279, p < 0.0001), lower heat index (i.e. low humidity; OR = 0.880, 95% CI = 0.872–0.887, p < 0.0001) and increased wind velocity (OR = 1.165, 95% CI = 1.149–1.182, p < 0.0001) had a significant linear effect on ER visits for renal colic events.

Conclusion:

Conditions that increase sweat evaporation during the hottest months, including a decreased heat index and increased wind velocity, correlated with more ER visits for renal colic events, probably due to dehydration associated with elevated sweat evaporation.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
Bacterial colonization in three different parts of double J stent
Authors: Gorji Daroonkolaee Alireza , Fakhr Yasseri Alimohammad , Khatami Fatemeh , Saatchi Mohammad , Moradi Tabriz Hedieh , Beheshti Masoumeh , Afsari Roohollah , Rakebi Mohammad Mehdi , Tehranipour Elham , Gholamnejad Maryam , Mashhadi Rahil , Aghamir Seyed Mohammad Kazem
Published: March 2022

Introduction:

Due to the extensive use of indwelling stents and catheters in urology, bacterial colonization on these materials is a significant cause of infections in this group of patients. This study aims to investigate and compare the bacterial colonization in urine and in the three zones of the double J (DJ) stent.

Methods:

Between August 2019 and May 2020, 67 patients (18–78 years old) who underwent DJ stenting were recruited in the study. Surgeries before stenting included transurethral lithotripsy (TUL), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), or diagnostic ureteroscopy. Before stenting, sterile urine samples were collected, and urinary cultures were performed, and the same procedure was done after removal of the DJ stents. DJ stent cultures were also performed.

Results:

61 patients were analyzed. The mean age of all patients was 53 ± 16 years. The mean time of DJ installation in all patients was 27.6 ± 6.7 days (14–43 days). In these three parts of the DJ, 70.5%, 67.2%, and 72.1% of patients were without a colony, respectively. The microorganism distribution is approximately the same in the lower and upperparts, and Escherichia coli has the highest frequency (11.5%). The odds ratio (OR) of contamination was significantly lower in men than in women, but overweight and diabetes were not associated.

Conclusion:

The severity and pattern of bacterial colonization are not significantly different in the proximal, distal, and middle parts of the DJ stent.
Judges’ Perceptions of Systemic Racism in the Criminal Justice System
Authors: Holbrook Mia Abboud , Dunbar Adam , Miller Monica K.
Published: March 2022

Recognition of the causes and consequences of systemic racism, particularly related to the criminal justice system, has increased in recent years, in part because of the Black Lives Matter movement. Awareness of racism and how it intersects with the justice system is a first step to addressing it; thus, it is critical to understand the sentiment of justice employees regarding systemic racism. This content analysis assessed the sentiment of 632 judges who responded to The National Judicial College's Question of the Month. Approximately 65% believed that systemic racism exists in the criminal justice system. Assessment of open-ended responses revealed many themes. Some judges pointed toward disparate treatment, while others denied racism exists. Some claimed that racism occurs but is not systemic. Many said that disparities are not a result of racism, but a result of SES, education, etc. Judges specified training and reforms (e.g., bail) that are needed. Suggested solutions included increasing accountability for police, prosecutors, and judges who display discriminatory behavior. These solutions indicated that judges are amenable to training and other reforms; such policy shifts should be pursued.
Predictive Factors Associated With Short-Term Clinical Outcomes and Time to Return to Activity After Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy in Nonathletes
Authors: Wang Lipeng , Lin Qingxi , Qi Xinsheng , Chen Dongyang , Xia Caiwei , Song Xiaoxiao
Published: March 2022

Background:

Although arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is a widely implemented surgical procedure, studies investigating the time to return to activity (RTA) are rare.

Purpose:

To explore which factors are associated with the RTA times after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy and to investigate whether those factors can also improve short-term patient-reported outcomes.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors reviewed the records of patients who underwent isolated partial meniscectomy in their institution from January 2017 to December 2019. Patient and injury characteristics were documented, and time to RTA was obtained via phone interview in January 2021. Pre- and postoperative outcomes were assessed with the Lysholm score and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score. The chi-square test and independent-samples t test were used to evaluate differences in outcome scores and time to RTA according to the patient and injury characteristics, and risk factors with a P value <.1 in the univariate analysis were used in the binary regression.

Results:

Included were 215 patients (87 men and 128 women; mean age, 33.7 years [range, 24-75 years]). Of these patients, 204 provided information on time to RTA (mean, 3.3 months). By 3 months postoperatively, 49.5% (101/204) of patients could perform activities without knee-related restriction; this improved to 69.6% (142/204) at 6 months and 90.2% (184/204) at 12 months. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, age (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.21-1.19; P = .044) and injury duration (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.19-1.07; P = .032) were significantly associated with the time to RTA. IKDC scores improved significantly from 41.2 preoperatively to 76.7 postoperatively, and in the multivariate logistic regression model, female sex (OR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.10-6.47; P = .030), body mass index (BMI) ≥27 kg/m2 (OR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.02-8.66; P = .047), and medial meniscal tear (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.04-1.00; P = .050) were associated with inferior outcome scores.

Conclusion:

Patients aged 40 years and younger who underwent partial meniscectomy surgery within 6 months after a meniscal tear were more likely to have a shorter time to RTA, and female patients with obesity (BMI ≥27 kg/m2), especially those with medial meniscal tears, tended to have inferior clinical outcomes.
Characteristics of the Kicking Motion in Adolescent Male Soccer Players Who Develop Osgood-Schlatter Disease: A Prospective Study
Authors: Takei Seira , Taketomi Shuji , Torii Suguru , Tojima Michio , Kaneoka Koji , Tanaka Sakae
Published: March 2022

Background:

Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is an apophysitis of the tibial tubercle caused by repeated traction of the patellar tendon during adolescence. Although OSD is associated more with sports such as soccer, it remains unclear whether the kicking motion itself is related to OSD onset.

Purpose:

To prospectively evaluate the kicking motion in adolescent soccer players who later developed OSD.

Study Design:

Case-control study.

Methods:

The authors observed 47 Japanese adolescent male soccer players (mean age, 12 years) over 6 months in 2018-2019; none of the participants had OSD at study onset. The players underwent tibial tubercle ultrasound at baseline, and their kicking motion was evaluated using 3-dimensional (3D) motion analysis with 65 reflective markers. The 3D angle of the lumbar spine, thorax, and pelvis and the angular velocity of the hips, knees, and ankles were calculated for the support leg. The kicking motion was divided into 8 phases, and ball speed, kicking time, and positions of the support (nonkicking) leg and center of mass (COM) from the ball were calculated for each phase. Six months later, the players underwent another ultrasound and were divided into 2 groups: those diagnosed with OSD in the support leg (OSD group) and those without OSD (normal [NRL] group). All factors calculated using the kicking motion analysis at the baseline were compared between groups.

Results:

There were 19 players in the OSD group and 28 players in the NRL group. Anthropometric measurements, ball speed, and kicking time were similar between the 2 groups. The forward translation of the COM and the support leg, the flexion angle of the thorax, and the rotation angle of the pelvis before impact with the ball were all significantly smaller in the OSD group than in the NRL group ( P < .05). Moreover, the knee extension angular velocity of the support leg was significantly larger in the OSD group ( P < .05) at ball impact.

Conclusion:

A kicking motion with small COM translation, small thoracic flexion, and small pelvic rotation before ball impact, as well as large knee extension angular velocity of the support leg at ball impact, may be associated with OSD onset.
Developing Entry-Level Communication Skills: A Comparison of Student and Employer Perceptions
Authors: Kleckner Mary Jae , Butz Nikolaus T.
Published: March 2022

Persistent concerns about college graduates’ foundational skills for workforce preparedness compels educators to continue exploring ways to address them. Although effective communication is widely regarded as essential for entry-level professionals, which skills matter most may vary. Employers’ satisfaction with communication skills also shifts over time. This study compares regional employers’ and undergraduate business majors’ satisfaction with given communication skills and their perceptions about various skills’ importance. Results showed students rank importance and satisfaction similarly, and students’ satisfaction with their skills exceeded employers’. Regressions showed student satisfaction with specific skills predict their perceived importance. Implications for curriculum development are discussed.
To Be or Not to Be: Great Power Dilemmas and the Iranian Nuclear Programme
Authors: Hussain Syed Jaleel
Published: March 2022

Mark Fitzpatrick, Michael Elleman and Paulina Izewicz. 2019. Uncertain Future: The JCPOA and Iran’s Nuclear and Missile Programmes. Routledge. 168 pp. ISBN: 9780367197056.

Dennis C. Jett. 2018. The Iran Nuclear Deal: Bombs, Bureaucrats, and Billionaires. Palgrave Macmillan. 481 pp. ISBN: 9783319598222.

Moritz. Pieper. 2018. Hegemony and Resistance around the Iranian Nuclear Programme. Routledge. 190 pp. ISBN: 9780367173807.

Farhad Rezaei. 2017. Iran’s Nuclear Program: A Study in Proliferation and Rollback. Palgrave Macmillan. 272 pp. ISBN: 9783319441191.

Trita Parsi. 2017. Losing an Enemy: Obama, Iran, and the Triumph of Diplomacy. Yale University Press. 472 pp. ISBN: 9780300218169.

This article looks at the competing dilemmas faced by the great powers and the reasons for their eventual cooperation concerning Iran’s nuclear programme. The great powers were divided between those who wanted a total roll back and those who supported meaningful and verifiable limits. Using the levels of analysis framework, the article looks at individual actors, structural factors and the domestic interconnections that sustained the Iranian nuclear crisis and propelled its eventual resolution in the form of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
A comparative study of seismic analysis, design, and collapse safety margins of tall buildings in the United States and Japan, Part I: Performance-based analysis and design
Authors: Hori Yusuke , Suzuki Yoshitaka , Kolozvari Kristijan , Johansson Ola , Naeim Farzad , Nakashima Masayoshi
Published: March 2022

Performance-based seismic analysis and design of tall buildings have become increasingly common in the United States and have been the standard practice in Japan for a long time. The methodologies for seismic hazard analyses, selection of earthquake records for design, and acceptance criteria, however, are widely different in the two countries. Japan experiences large earthquakes and strong shakings of buildings significantly more frequently than the United States, and the data on actual seismic performance are richer in Japan than in the United States. Comparison of performance and calibration between the two design procedures can help to improve the quantitative assessment of seismic performance of buildings in the United States. This article presents the application of US and Japanese procedures to a tall building archetype once proportioned, analyzed, and designed according to US practices and once per Japanese practices. The structural systems selected are very different; for the United States, the archetype is designed using a core reinforced concrete shear wall building with composite floor systems and steel columns as the gravity system, whereas for Japan, the archetype is designed using a steel moment frame made of square concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) columns and composite beams and installed with oil dampers. Although the design procedures followed are vastly different, the seismic performances of the systems are rather similar during serviceability, design basis, and maximum considered events. As will be presented in the second part of this article, the collapse safety margins of the two designs are significantly different.