bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the synergism on distribution parameters of micro dimples in partially textured thrust pad bearing
Authors: He Yuyang , Ji Jinghu , Fu Yonghong , Deng Zhiwen , Yang Jie
Published: September 2022

Partially surface texturing is a promising technology to improve the performance of thrust pad bearing. Moreover, how to design the distribution parameters of local textures is a crucial issue of the amelioration of lubrication and anti-friction. Hence, the synergistic effect of micro dimples’ distribution parameters was systematically investigated by numerical and experimental approaches. The textured region area ratio (TRAR) was defined to analyze the synergy of radial and circumferential parameters. Then, a series of frictional tests were conducted with different positions and proportions. The results showed that the CPP and RPP directly determined the efficacy of the ‘equivalent Rayleigh step’ which could enhance the cumulative response of hydrodynamic lubrication. Meanwhile, there was an optimal TRAR (about 0.8) according to the favorable fitting curve with R Square (R2) being 0.9013. And circumferential proportion parameter (CPP) and radial proportion parameter (RPP) exhibit an interactive relationship which was dependent on the optimal TRAR. On the other hand, for generating the ‘inlet roughness’ and ‘open pocket’, the circumferential location parameter (CLP) of local textures needed to keep close to the inlet without consideration of the radial location parameter (RLP) due to the negligible influence.
Developing a theory of change methodology to support the evaluation of place-based systems change interventions to support child and adolescent mental health and well-being
Authors: Doherty Robyn , Quinn Neil , Colson Abigail , Tucker Amy , Cameron Julie
Published: September 2022

Over the past few years, levels of mental health problems among children and adolescents have risen alongside an increased demand for services, which has driven the demand for a transformative systems change in how child and adolescent mental health services are delivered. Theory of change methodology is a valuable approach for advancing systems change. This article describes the theory of change process to evaluate a strategic partnership approach to advancing systems change improvements in child and adolescent’s mental health. This article describes the development and application of a theory of change methodology for these strategic partnerships, discussing the benefits derived from developing the theory of change and its use by the programme staff and evaluation team. This article also discusses the challenges and limitations of using this approach and recommendations for use more widely.
Child and adolescent psychiatry staff’s knowledge on pain management
Authors: Geremek Adam , Ruby Lisa , Lindner Clemens , Niederberger Uwe , Schild Ursula , Jung Martin , Soyka Oliver , Siniatchkin Michael
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess the level of child and adolescent psychiatric staff’s knowledge regarding pain management, to determine group differences between the medically more educated (physicians, nurses) and the less educated (psychologists, educators, special therapists) and to investigate the influence of gender, age, or professional experience as well as staff’s own pain experiences.

Methods

A total of 193 staff members from different professional backgrounds from three independent child and adolescent psychiatry clinics in Northern Germany were tested using the German version of the Pediatric Nurses’ Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain Shriner’s revision (PNKAS-Sr).

Results

In total, the staff scored correctly 66% of the inventory questions. There was no difference between medically more educated and less educated staff members regarding the knowledge of pain management. The main factors influencing PNKAS score were age, profession, and pain education training.

Conclusions

Although chronic pain is not one of the main aspects of continuing education in child and adolescent psychiatry, the resulting level of knowledge was comparable to results of similar surveys with paediatric staffs. Nevertheless, further education is needed to enhance knowledge and understanding of children’s pain in child psychiatry staff in order to professionally treat patients with chronic somatic and mental illnesses.
The courage to ‘get naked’: Stigma, disclosure and lived experience in sex work research
Authors: Armstrong Lynzi
Published: September 2022

Stigma is widely acknowledged as an issue that causes significant harm to sex workers, forcing people to conceal their experiences. It has also been acknowledged that the stigma relating to sex work can impact researchers, who may experience stigma by association. However, researchers can also have personal experience of sex work themselves, which means they are impacted directly by stigma on several levels and must negotiate difficult decisions relating to disclosure and risk. In this paper, I recount the power that stigma has had over me, discussing the emotional challenges that this has created for me as a researcher and in my everyday life. Furthermore, I reflect on the complications of my positionality and argue that while lived experience is incredibly valuable, as researchers it is also important to be aware of the limitations of our own experiences.
‘The metaverse and how we’ll build it’: The political economy of Meta’s Reality Labs
Authors: Egliston Ben , Carter Marcus
Published: September 2022

Spatial computing – that is, a form of human–computer interaction that retains or manipulates referents of real object and spaces – is an increasingly intense focus for Meta. In 2018, Meta launched ‘Reality Labs’ (RL), a research and development division to oversee the company’s production of spatial computing technologies. Drawing on a media historiographical approach from platform studies, this article charts the development of the company’s spatial computing ambitions through RL from 2018 to 2022. In so doing, we find that Meta attempts to consolidate complementors through acquisitions, capture policymakers and academics, convene third-party businesses and developers, and expand its ecosystem through enhancing platform programmability. We argue that RL’s efforts to grow the platform from within, and through drawing in third-parties, signals an ambition to grow their spatial computing offerings such that they take on a central, infrastructural role in society.
Structural response of sandwich structures with CFRP face sheets under quasi-static indentation and high velocity impact: An experimental and numerical study
Authors: Dhanarasu Muniraj , VM Sreehari
Published: September 2022

Honeycomb sandwich structures (HSSs) with carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite face sheets are extensively used as light-weight structures in aerospace engineering due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and energy absorption properties. However, the composite face sheets are highly vulnerable to impact loads and cause damage to the structure based on the impact energy. This study investigates the structural response of HSS with CFRP face sheets under quasi-static indentation and a wide range of impact energy: low to high velocity impact. A finite-element model was developed and numerical simulations were carried out at various impact energies, thereby providing deeper insights into the impact dynamics and understanding various damage states such as dent, front face sheet perforation, core damage and rear face sheet penetration. The numerical simulation result was compared with the experimentally tested HSS using a single-stage gas gun under 53.6 J to validate the finite-element model in terms of deformation and damage status. A quasi-static indentation test was conducted and numerically predicted force data under impact test for the complete perforation case was compared to address the dependency of rate of loading. The carbon nanotube (CNT) with various weight percentages (wt%), such as 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6, was added to the matrix system through a vacuum assisted resin transfer technique and experiments were conducted at 79, 107 and 135 J. The impact resistance increases with CNT addition and hence no perforation was recorded for all the test cases of 0.6 wt% CNT addition. The influence of CNT addition on the damage area is more on the bottom face sheet and a 57% reduction in damage area was recorded for the case of 0.6 wt% CNT addition at 135 J impact energy when compared to the neat carbon/epoxy composite.
Serum biomarkers associated with radiographic skeletal maturity indicators: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tripathi Tulika , Ganesh Gayatri , Singh Navneet , Rai Priyank
Published: September 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the relevant scientific literature to determine the association between different serum biomarker levels and radiographic skeletal maturity indicators.

Data Search, Screening and Eligibility:

A literature search was carried out on PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, Science Direct and Opengrey.eu up to November 2021 and 7466 records were retrieved via the electronic search. Study selection, data extraction and subsequent risk of bias assessment (RoB) was carried out independently by two authors. In case of any discrepancy, a third author was consulted.

Results:

After the exclusion of duplicates and the application of inclusion exclusion criteria, 19 studies (published in 25 articles) were included in the systematic review out of which 17 had a cross-sectional and two had a cohort study design. For the meta-analysis, based on the homogeneity, five cross-sectional studies measuring serum IGF-1 levels were incorporated. The meta-analysis revealed that the serum IGF-1 levels peak at the CS4 stage (401.77 ng/mL [333.50 – 470.05]) in the pooled group. However, in the subgroup analysis, it was found that the serum IGF-1 levels peak at CS3 in girls (422.82 ng/mL [377.46–468.18]) and CS4 in boys (487.04 ng/mL [391.83–582.25]).

Conclusion:

Among the various biomarkers evaluated, serum IGF-1 was the most associated with different stages of radiographic skeletal maturity indicators with its levels peaking at CS3 in girls and CS4 in boys.
Promoting empowerment for people living with dementia in nursing homes: Development and feasibility evaluation of an empowerment program
Authors: van Corven Charlotte , Bielderman Annemiek , Wijnen Mandy , Leontjevas Ruslan , Lucassen Peter LBJ , Graff Maud JL , Gerritsen Debby L
Published: September 2022

Objectives

This article describes the development and feasibility evaluation of an empowerment program for people living with dementia in nursing homes.

Methods

Development and feasibility evaluation of the empowerment program was guided by the British Medical Research Council’s (MRC) framework. In the developmental phase, we used intervention mapping to develop the theory- and evidence-based intervention. During the feasibility phase, two care teams utilised the program from September to December 2020. We evaluated the feasibility in terms of demand, acceptability, implementation, practicality, integration and limited efficacy.

Findings

This study showed that, according to healthcare professionals, the program was feasible for promoting empowerment for people living with dementia in a nursing home. Healthcare professionals mentioned an increased awareness regarding the four themes of empowerment (sense of identity, usefulness, control and self-worth), and greater focus on the small things that matter to residents. Healthcare professionals experienced challenges in involving family caregivers.

Conclusion

An important step is to take into account the implementation prerequisites that follow from our findings, and to further investigate feasibility, as the use of the program and data collection was hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequent research could investigate the effects of the empowerment program.
Ramping Up Detention of Young Serious Offenders: A Safer Future?
Authors: Creemers Hanneke E. , van Logchem Eric K. , Assink Mark , Asscher Jessica J.
Published: September 2022

When youth commit serious violent or sexual offenses, this often generates a call for more severe punishments and longer detention sentences. An important question is whether (long) detention sentences are effective in decreasing recidivism among serious young offenders. To estimate recidivism rates in serious young offenders and elucidate the link between sentencing (in terms of custodial vs. non-custodial and length of imprisonment) and recidivism, three multilevel meta-analyses were conducted. With a systematic literature search, 27 studies and four datasets were traced, involving N = 2,308 participants, yielding 90 effect sizes for overall recidivism, 24 for specifically violent recidivism, and 23 for the association between length of imprisonment and recidivism. The average weighted overall recidivism rate was 44.47% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 37.59–51.46%) over an average period of 8.68 years. The rate of violent recidivism was estimated at 30.49% (95% CI: 20.92–40.52%), over an average period of 11.45 years. Recidivism rates were higher when recidivism was defined as an arrest for any new offense rather than for a specific offense and in studies conducted in the United States versus European studies. Violent recidivism rates were higher in studies with longer follow-up periods. Based on the limited available studies, no difference in recidivism rates following custodial and non-custodial sentences were found, nor an association between length of imprisonment and recidivism. To increase rehabilitation chances for youth offenders, further research is warranted to better understand the impact of sentencing and to ascertain what is needed to make custodial and non-custodial sentences more effective.
The Relationship Between Dissociation and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Scoping Review
Authors: Fung Hong Wang , Chien Wai Tong , Lam Stanley Kam Ki , Ross Colin A.
Published: September 2022

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) has recently been recognized as an official psychiatric diagnosis in ICD-11, after years of research and advocacy in the field. It has been suggested that dissociative symptoms are a major feature of CPTSD. This scoping review aimed to summarize the existing knowledge base on the relationship between dissociation and CPTSD, and to identify relevant research gaps. We searched the two largest and most widely used academic databases (i.e., the Web of Science and Scopus databases) and the ProQuest database and identified original studies published in English relevant to our research questions, namely: (1) Would CPTSD be associated with dissociative symptoms? 2) How common are dissociative symptoms among people with CPTSD? (3) What are the correlates of dissociative symptoms among people with CPTSD? In all, 26 studies were included. We found 10 studies which reported that people with CPTSD scored significantly higher on a dissociation measure than those without CPTSD, and 11 studies reported a positive correlation between CPTSD symptoms and psychoform/somatoform dissociation scores. While very few studies reported the prevalence and correlates of dissociative symptoms among people with CPTSD, there may be a considerable subgroup of people with CPTSD who have clinically significant levels of dissociative symptoms (e.g., 28.6–76.9%). Dissociation may also be associated with other comorbidities (e.g., DSM-IV Axis II features, shame, somatic symptoms) in people with CPTSD. We recommend that more studies are needed to investigate the prevalence of dissociative symptoms among people with CPTSD and examine how these symptoms are associated with other comorbid conditions and clinical needs in this vulnerable group.
Outcomes of a High-Volume Organ Procurement Organization in the Era of Increasing Donation After Circulatory Death
Authors: Hobeika Mark J. , Menser Terri , Myer Kevin , Lopez Adriana , Shaikh Asad F. , Quinn Lauren , Curran Chris , Wood R. Patrick , Ghobrial R. Mark , Gaber A. Osama
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Donation after circulatory death (DCD) is rapidly increasing in the United States. Detailed data outlining the process from referral to organ transplantation is lacking. Project Aims: We sought to quantify differences at each stage along the referral to donation pathway by donor type. Additionally, we examined factors associated with successful DCD organ utilization. Design: This program evaluation analyzed data from a single organ procurement organization in 2018 to assess demographic and clinical predictors of progression through the donation process, including the role of first-person authorization in DCD. Descriptive statistics were examined by donation stage for demographic characteristics using chi-square; univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to model predictors of utilization and authorization by organ type, respectively. Results: There were 2466 organ donation referrals during 2018, including 575 donations after brainstem death (DBD), 1890 controlled DCD referrals, and 1 uncontrolled DCD referral. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models highlighted differences in authorization rates by donor type (DCD vs DBD) and by age, race, and ethnicity. Next-of-kin authorization was declined in 23% of first-person authorized potential DCD, highlighting issues related to the role of donor registration in DCD. Pre-mortem heparin administration was predictive of DCD organ utilization; donor age and warm ischemia time of less than 30 min was statistically significantly associated with DCD extra-renal organ utilization. Conclusion: These results provided insight into strategies for increasing authorization and transplantation of organs from DCD donors and identified areas of improvement for process standardization and policy development.
Face, Content, and Construct Validity Evaluation of Simulation Models in General Surgery Laparoscopic Training and Education: A Systematic Review.
Authors: Rueda Esteban Roberto J. , López-McCormick Juan S. , Rodríguez-Bermeo Alejandra S. , Andrade Mateo , Hernández Restrepo Juan D. , Targarona Soler Eduardo M.
Published: September 2022

Background

Laparoscopic technical surgical skills (LTS) are considered a fundamental competence for General Surgery residents. Several simulation tools (ST) have been explored to develop LTS. Although a plethora of systematic reviews evaluate the translation of LTS developed in simulation to real surgery, there is a lack of evidence that clarifies effectiveness of different validated ST in acquisition of LTS in surgical residents. The aim of this systematic review (SR) is to summarize published evidence on ST validation used for surgery education and training.

Methods

A protocol was published in PROSPERO. A SR was carried out following PRISMA guidelines. Complete published articles in English or Spanish that validate either content or construct, plus another form of validation of ST to acquire LTS in general surgery were included. Articles that used only one validation or did not validate an ST were excluded.

Results

1052 publications were initially identified across all searched databases. Title review identified 204 studies eligible for full text screening. 10 studies were included for final review. Two studies assessed both face and content, 4 face and construct, and 4 face, content and construct validity. None of the studies presented comparable outcomes due to metrics variation and scores used for the validation strategies.

Conclusions

This study assessed validated laparoscopic simulation models, particularly in content and construct validity. Articles reported an increased use of simulation models in laparoscopic training with positive feedback from trainees, but few studies reported validation of training model. Validation strategies are not standardized, limiting comparability between them.
Thrombin injection under B-flow and ultrasound guidance: A safe and effective treatment of pseudoaneurysms
Authors: Li Lu , Deng Hongyan , Yuan Ya , Ye Xinhua
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the method of thrombin injection under B-flow and ultrasound guidance (BUGTI) for the treatment of pseudoaneurysms.

Materials and methods

Twenty-one patients suffering from pseudoaneurysm (PSA) were retrospectively reviewed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University in Nanjing, China, from January 2018 to August 2019. The patients were treated using an ultrasound-guided injection of thrombin (500 IU/mL) combined with B-mode blood flow imaging (B-flow). The information on the PSA, including the size of the arterial rupture and sac, flow rate, thrombin dose, and treatment outcome, was recorded during the procedure. Follow-up evaluation was performed at 1, 3, and 6 months after the treatment. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed among the characteristics of PSA and the dose of thrombin.

Result

The age of patients ranged from 34 to 80 years and averaged 62.8 years. The maximum cross-sectional area of PSA ranged from 208 to 1148 mm2. All patients were treated with thrombin injections. The dose of thrombin ranged from 300 to 1667 IU. No reperfusions were detected at follow-up 6 months, and the BUGTI treatment was successful in all 21 cases. Pearson’s correlation analysis demonstrated that the dose of thrombin was positively correlated with the width (r = 0.449, p < .05) and maximum cross-sectional area (r = 0.504, p < .05) of PSA.

Conclusion

Thrombin injection under B-flow and ultrasound guidance is a rapid and effective treatment for PSA. Additionally, the sac size could be used to estimate the dose of thrombin.
A convergence of crises: COVID-19, climate change and bunkerization
Authors: Lam Anita , South Nigel , Brisman Avi
Published: September 2022

Bunkerization, a term often associated with military fortifications on 20th-century battlefields or the fallout shelters of the Cold War, can now refer to the building, buying and selling of artificial environments designed to provide protective and defensive responses to the ecological, military, and political threats of the Anthropocene. As places of elite retreat, however, these are not spartan spaces. This article documents how—for some—forms of bunkerization have emerged as privileged reactions or responses to contemporary environmental crises, such as climate change, by considering the case of last-chance tourism and luxury cruising. In 2020, both climate change and COVID-19 became intertwined as global crises emerging from humans’ troubling relationships with nature. To examine bunkerization as an individualistic reaction to these converging crises, we first outline the challenges presented by COVID-19 and its connections with human exploitation of animals and the environment. We then turn to the particular uses of the environment—in this case, the oceans—as locations of leisure and retreat, and offer an analysis of the image, operations and impact of the luxury cruise industry. In light of our current path of crisis accumulation, we conclude with an urgent call to adopt a more holistic view of planetary public health—one that includes not only humans but also other species and the natural environment.
Are schools’ qualification and civic outcomes related? The role of schools’ student composition and tracking
Authors: Mennes Hester I , van de Werfhorst Herman G , Dijkstra Anne Bert , Munniksma Anke
Published: September 2022

In preparing generations for the future, schools fulfill a qualification and a civic task: providing youngsters knowledge and skills for the labor market, and equipping them to navigate democracy and society. Little research has considered how schools combine these tasks, particularly in relation to schools’ student composition in terms of socioeconomic (dis)advantages across vocational and academic tracks, the focus of this study. By means of a unique, combined dataset, qualification and civic outcome indicators of 101 Dutch secondary schools were examined. Results showed that schools’ qualification and civic outcomes were more positively related in academic than in vocational tracks, possibly informed by schools’ student composition: the role of student composition was stronger in academic than vocational tracks for both qualification and civic outcomes. This is discussed in relation to schools’ role in mitigating versus reproducing societal inequalities.
Barriers and facilitators to implementing the Activate injury prevention exercise programme – A qualitative study of schoolboy rugby coaches
Authors: Barden Craig , Watkins Ross , Stokes Keith A , McKay Carly D
Published: September 2022

The rugby-specific Activate injury prevention exercise programme was deemed efficacious in a randomised controlled trial and subsequently disseminated nationwide by the Rugby Football Union (English rugby union governing body) in 2017. However, no assessment has been made of the factors influencing Activate implementation in an applied setting. Consequently, this study sought to assess the barriers and facilitators to coaches implementing Activate in English schoolboy rugby. This qualitative study adopted a framework approach, using four a-priori themes influencing injury prevention implementation: awareness, motivational determinants, volitional determinants and socio-environmental factors. A purposive sample of schoolboy rugby coaches were recruited from schools nationwide, participating in semi-structured, one-on-one interviews (n = 10). Transcripts were thematically coded. Participants had positive perceptions towards Activate, although only six adopted the programme. Participants reported that players were generally unaware of the programme, with some suggesting this was not an issue as coaches made the decision to adopt Activate. Participants focused heavily upon the use of resources to develop coaches’ awareness, knowledge and confidence. No participant implemented Activate as initially designed, influenced by time and engagement, instead incorporating it within training drills rather than as a block at the beginning of the session. Participants adapted the programme to make it suitable for multiple sports. Some participants reported asking players to deliver Activate, despite their lack of awareness, raising concerns around implementation. Participants heavily adapted Activate delivery to suit their contexts. How this affects the effectiveness of Activate to reduce injury risk is unknown and should be investigated. Player-specific dissemination strategies should be considered if these individuals act as delivery-agents.
Visual exploratory activity and practice design: Perceptions of experienced coaches in professional football academies
Authors: Eldridge David , Pocock Chris , Pulling Craig , Kearney Philip , Dicks Matt
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to explore: (a) football coaches’ perceptions of visual exploratory activity (VEA) and (b) the practice activities designed by coaches believed to develop VEA. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine coaches who held the UEFA A or B Licence in coaching football. All coaches worked in an English professional football club's academy and held different coaching positions. Thematic analysis of the data identified three themes: Importance of VEA, Development of VEA and Delivery of VEA (e.g., practice design, visual aids, technology and questioning). The interviews revealed that all coaches hold VEA as an integral part of player performance yet are unsure of how to develop this behaviour. They deemed that VEA should be developed at a young age to enable players to reach an elite level of performance. Despite these views, coaches did not feel that VEA should be a particular focus on individual sessions and believed the VEA behaviour would be drawn out from practices used by coaches. There was a range of activities ( N = 33) discussed by the coaches when they were asked to draw and provide examples of practices that they would use to develop VEA. The percentage of planned practices that were deemed active decision-making activities (70%) was greater compared to non-active decision-making activities (30%). This study has implications for the planning and interventions coaches place on practices to develop VEA. Future research should consider investigating the impact different types of practice have on performers’ VEA.
System-level failure prognostics: Literature review and main challenges
Authors: Tamssaouet Ferhat , Nguyen Khanh TP , Medjaher Kamal , Orchard Marcos Eduardo
Published: September 2022

This paper reviews methods and practices for addressing the concepts of system-level prognostics (SLP) and system remaining useful life (SRUL) estimation applied to multicomponent systems. A precise definition of SLP is provided, emphasizing the advantages of its use in terms of identifying the scope of SLP applications. In addition, a comprehensive review of the literature is provided to properly classify and compare the findings of previously published studies in the field of SLP and evaluate the effectiveness of the available methodologies within the different stages of prognostic development. Finally, and considering that SLP is still a relatively recent research field, we also provide a thorough discussion on the main challenges that remain to be solved before achieving complete technology transfer, as well as future research directions.
The forgotten prisoners: Exploring the impact of imprisonment on people with disability in Australia
Authors: Dodd Shannon , Doyle Caroline , Dickinson Helen , Buick Fiona , Yates Sophie
Published: September 2022

People with disability represent a significant proportion of Australia’s prison population; however, little is known about their experiences or the institutional barriers they may face. Drawing from 24 in-depth interviews with 28 participants and one written submission, this article explores the impacts, challenges and consequences of imprisonment for people with disability in Australia. By bringing together disability and criminological research, we highlight the impacts of subjecting people with disability to a ‘thoughtless’ and ableist prison environment, regime, and culture that simultaneously overlooks, compounds and further punishes their disability. Identifying three key areas of ‘institutional thoughtlessness’, we offer substantive insight into a group of people in prison often forgotten by researchers and policymakers.
Normal C-reactive protein in active psoriatic arthritis: results from real-world clinical practice
Authors: Gialouri Chrysoula G. , Evangelatos Gerasimos , Pappa Maria , Karamanakos Anastasios , Iliopoulos Alexios , Tektonidou Maria G. , Sfikakis Petros P. , Fragoulis George E.
Published: September 2022

Background:

The value of normal C-reactive protein (CRP) in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is debatable.

Objectives:

To test the hypothesis that CRP is frequently normal in contemporary real-world PsA patients, despite active disease.

Design:

In this cross-sectional study, patients were divided into two groups: CRP ⩽ 0.5 mg/dl (normal) and CRP > 0.5 mg/dl (increased). Having as dependent variable the CRP status, these groups were compared for disease-related features, including composite disease activity indices [clinical Disease Activity in PSoriatic Arthritis (cDAPSA) and minimal disease activity (MDA)] and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Agreement between CRP status and cDAPSA/MDA scores was calculated (Cohen’s kappa).

Methods:

Data from consecutive PsA patients attending two outpatient rheumatology clinics (January 2019–June 2021) were analysed.

Results:

From 128 patients enrolled (51.6% females; mean ± standard deviation age: 53.4 ± 11.7 years; 23.4%, 48.4% and 64.1% treated with glucocorticoids, conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) and biologic DMARDs, respectively), two-thirds (66.4%, n = 85) had normal CRP values. CRP status was not associated with any of the disease-related parameters and PROs, but only with ESR [odds ratio: 1.04 (95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.06), p = 0.005]. Among patients with normal CRP, 45.9% (39/85) were on non-MDA state, while 21.2% (18/85) had cDAPSA-moderate and 5.9% (5/85) had cDAPSA-high disease activities. Conversely, 54.2% (39/72) of patients on non-MDA state and 52.3% (23/44) of those with cDAPSA-moderate or cDAPSA-high disease activity had normal CRP values. Cohen’s kappa between normal CRP and MDA, cDAPSA-remission, and cDAPSA-remission/low disease activity was –0.26, –0.21 and –0.22, respectively, displaying total disagreement.

Conclusion:

Normal CRP in PsA should not be used as surrogate marker of remission or low/MDA, therefore needs to be interpreted with caution in clinical decision-making.
Endoscopic Plantar Fascia Release Combined With Calcaneal Spur Resection: A Case Series of 40 Patients
Authors: Nakajima Kenichiro
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To review the cases of patients treated using endoscopic plantar fascia release (PFR) with calcaneal spur resection (CSR) and examine why the combined procedures cause complications.

Methods

The medical records of patients treated with endoscopic PFR with CSR from November 2017 to December 2019 with a follow-up of >2 years were reviewed.

Results

A total of 40 feet in 40 patients (22 females, 18 males) were enrolled. The mean age and body mass index were 51.1 years and 24.7 kg/m2, respectively. The mean follow-up duration was 5.7 years. The visual analog scale for pain improved from 80.7 to 8.8 mm, and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot score improved from 44.7 to 95.6 points (Wilcoxon signed rank test, P < .001 for both). Complications occurred in 8 patients (20%): 3 had flatfoot, 3 had an injury to the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, 1 had scar pain, and 1 had a wound infection.

Conclusion

The 40 patients treated with endoscopic PFR with CSR for plantar fasciitis had good outcomes with a high complication rate; the invasiveness of creating the working space for the combined procedures was thought to be responsible.

Levels of Evidence:

Level IV: Case series
Virtual Teaching in the Applied String Studio During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Aaberg Morganne
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this survey study was to describe technologies and lesson formats used in virtual applied studio string lessons precipitated by shelter-in-place measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore teachers’ adaptations, perceptions of effectiveness, and feelings toward virtual lessons. Research questions that guided this study included the following: (a) What technologies and lesson formats did teachers use in virtual applied string lessons? (b) How did teachers adapt their teaching approaches to virtual lessons? (c) Did teachers feel these lessons were effective? and (d) What affective responses did teachers have to these lessons? Data were gathered from members of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA; N = 301) who self-identified as “private studio teachers” in their online profiles. Findings illustrate what equipment and technology participants employed in virtual lessons. They also indicated a relatively high rating of participants’ self-perceived effectiveness when teaching virtual lessons and that studio teachers had mixed affective responses to the experience. Participants indicated difficulties when teaching tone in the virtual format, which was consistent with their open-ended responses that frequently cited poor sound quality online.
Enhanced clinical task-based fMRI metrics through locally low-rank denoising of complex-valued data
Authors: Meyer Nolan K , Kang Daehun , Black David F , Campeau Norbert G , Welker Kirk M , Gray Erin M , In Myung-Ho , Shu Yunhong , Huston III John , Bernstein Matt A , Trzasko Joshua D
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study investigates a locally low-rank (LLR) denoising algorithm applied to source images from a clinical task-based functional MRI (fMRI) exam before post-processing for improving statistical confidence of task-based activation maps.

Methods

Task-based motor and language fMRI was obtained in eleven healthy volunteers under an IRB approved protocol. LLR denoising was then applied to raw complex-valued image data before fMRI processing. Activation maps generated from conventional non-denoised (control) data were compared with maps derived from LLR-denoised image data. Four board-certified neuroradiologists completed consensus assessment of activation maps; region-specific and aggregate motor and language consensus thresholds were then compared with nonparametric statistical tests. Additional evaluation included retrospective truncation of exam data without and with LLR denoising; a ROI-based analysis tracked t-statistics and temporal SNR (tSNR) as scan durations decreased. A test-retest assessment was performed; retest data were matched with initial test data and compared for one subject.

Results

fMRI activation maps generated from LLR-denoised data predominantly exhibited statistically significant ( p = 4.88×10–4 to p = 0.042; one p = 0.062) increases in consensus t-statistic thresholds for motor and language activation maps. Following data truncation, LLR data showed task-specific increases in t-statistics and tSNR respectively exceeding 20 and 50% compared to control. LLR denoising enabled truncation of exam durations while preserving cluster volumes at fixed thresholds. Test-retest showed variable activation with LLR data thresholded higher in matching initial test data.

Conclusion

LLR denoising affords robust increases in t-statistics on fMRI activation maps compared to routine processing, and offers potential for reduced scan duration while preserving map quality.
Synthesis of a bifunctional EDTA–carboxymethyl chitosan derivative and its potential as an adsorbent for the removal of Cu2+ ions from aqueous solutions
Authors: Weerasinghe Kavindya , Liyanage Sudantha , Kumarasinghe Upul R , Cooray Asitha T
Published: September 2022

Chitosan is a well-studied biomaterial which has been widely used for environmental applications as an efficient natural polymer for the adsorption and removal of metal ions. Owing to its unique properties, chitosan shows good metal-binding behavior toward several different metal ions such as Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Ni2+, Co2+, and Ca2+. Chemical modifications with the introduction of functional groups have been carried out extensively and thereby producing various chitosan derivatives to increase the selectivity and adsorption capacity toward metal ions. The present work focuses on two such monofunctional derivatives, namely, carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid chitosan (EDTA-CS) which have been recognized as excellent adsorbents for metal removal. The main objective of this study was to synthesize a new bifunctional chitosan derivative, namely, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid–carboxymethyl chitosan (EDTA-CMC) by attaching both carboxymethyl and EDTA functional groups on the polymer backbone and thereby enhancing its metal-binding properties. The bifunctional derivative synthesis was conducted by combining the procedures of synthesis of CMC and EDTA-CS. Newly synthesized EDTA-CMC derivative was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. Adsorption properties of EDTA-CMC were investigated with Cu2+ ions which produced an adsorption capacity of 111.90 mg g−1 for 1000.0 mg/L and 12.20 mg g−1 for 10.00 mg/L Cu2+ solutions. The preliminary results revealed that EDTA-CMC is an effective adsorbent than CMC to remove Cu2+ in aqueous samples. The effects of pH, initial concentration, and mass of the adsorbent in the adsorption process were studied. Under the optimized parameters of an adsorbent dosage of 10.00 mg and pH 5.5, a comparable maximum adsorption capacity up to 112.44 mg g−1 was achieved with a 150.00 mg/L of Cu2+ solution. Furthermore, EDTA-CMC showed good adsorption performance even after five cycles of regeneration.
Efficacy and safety of different therapies of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs against antibiotic monotherapy in the treatment of uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection: A systematic review
Authors: Gautam Sandesh , Shrestha Rajeev , Ghani Mohammad R , Ali Mahmoud M , KC Manish , Elfert Yomna A , Chong Vanessa , Adegbite Bayode Romeo
Published: September 2022

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy (monotherapy or combined with antibiotics) against antibiotics monotherapy to understand the possible role of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in managing uncomplicated urinary tract infections and reduce overall antibiotic prescription. We searched four databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL. We included randomized controlled trials, which had included non-pregnant females above 18 years, published from 2010 to 2020 AD in the English language. We assessed risk of bias (ROB) using COCHRANE ROB version 2.0. We synthesized the conclusion from low ROB studies. Among five included studies, four studies compared non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs monotherapy against antibiotics monotherapy, and one study compared non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs + antibiotic therapy against antibiotic monotherapy. All studies with low ROB showed significantly higher events of symptom resolution by day 7 with antibiotic monotherapy compared to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs monotherapy. Overall, adverse events were not significantly different in two of three low risk of bias studies; however, one study reported significantly higher adverse effects with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Non-urinary tract infection–related adverse events were more common than urinary tract infections–related adverse events in both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotic groups. Urinary tract infection–related adverse events were higher in the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs group compared to antibiotics. For every 20–60 participants treated, one would develop pyelonephritis additionally in non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs compared to antibiotics. Antibiotics were superior to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for treating uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections. However, further studies regarding the characteristics of patients likely to develop pyelonephritis on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs monotherapy, and the effectiveness and safety of a combination of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics therapy are essential to reduce the burden of antibiotics and their associated problems.
Toward a Chinese model: De-Sovietization reforms of China’s higher education in the 1980s and 1990s
Authors: Shen Wenqin , Zhang Han , Liu Chao
Published: September 2022

The reform and success of China’s higher education since 1978 has attracted much attention in recent years. This article attempts to understand the nature of this reform from the perspective of de-Sovietization, outside the mainstream neoliberal and internationalization narratives. In the 1950s, China’s higher education was completely reformed by the Soviet Model with features of separating teaching and research, excessive specialization in undergraduate education, and high centralization. Moreover, Chinese institutions were increasingly disconnected from the international academic community. During the 1980s and 1990s, China started de-Sovietization reform and took measures to strengthen general education, develop comprehensive universities, integrate teaching and scientific research, and expand the autonomy of colleges and universities. De-Sovietization reform was also a process of relearning from Western countries, of which learning from the American experience was prominent. In this process, Chinese universities resumed ties with the international academic community. De-Sovietization reform has left an important impact on the development of contemporary universities in China.
Trends in Level of Evidence of Systematic Reviews in Sports Medicine, 2010-2020 : A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Paras Tyler , Sabzevari Soheil , Solomon David , Smith Clair , McDonough Christine , Lin Albert
Published: September 2022

Background:

Popularization of systematic reviews has been met with controversy because of concerns that the primary literature for certain topics may not be suited for systematic review and meta-analysis.

Purpose:

To assess the rate of publication of systematic reviews based on their level of evidence (LOE) in influential orthopaedic sports medicine journals and commonly studied topics in sports medicine.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

An electronic search was performed using the PubMed database of studies published from January 2010 to December 2020. The advanced search function was used to identify systematic reviews from the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery ( JSES), American Journal of Sports Medicine ( AJSM), Arthroscopy, British Journal of Sports Medicine ( BJSM), Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery–American Volume ( JBJS), and Sports Medicine ( SM Auckland), as well as reviews of the most common areas of sports medicine research, including rotator cuff repair (RCR), shoulder instability (SI), anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), and meniscal repair. The LOE was assigned to each included study according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. Studies were grouped as LOE 1-2, LOE 3-5, and nonclinical systematic reviews. A negative binomial regression was used to determine the changes in publication rate over time.

Results:

A total of 2162 systematic reviews were included in this study. From 2010 to 2020, the rate of publication of LOE 3-5 systematic reviews increased significantly among most of the surveyed journals ( AJSM, P < .0001; Arthroscopy, P = .01; BJSM, P < .0001; JSES, P < .0001; SM Auckland, P < .0001), with the exception of JBJS ( P = .57). The rate of publication of LOE 1-2 systematic reviews increased in AJSM ( P < .0001), Arthroscopy ( P = .02), BJSM ( P < .0001), and SM Auckland ( P < .0001); however, no significant changes were seen in JBJS ( P = .08) or JSES ( P = .15). The publication rate of LOE 3-5 systematic reviews increased for all sports medicine topics surveyed (meniscal repair, P < .0001; RCR, P < .0001; SI, P < .0001; ACLR, P < .0001). However, the publication rate of LOE 1-2 studies only increased for RCR ( P = .0003) and ACLR ( P < .0001).

Conclusion:

The rate of publication of LOE 3-5 systematic reviews exponentially increased in orthopaedic sports medicine journals over the past decade, outpacing the publication rate of LOE 1-2 systematic reviews.