bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intravitreal ranibizumab versus dexamethasone implant in macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pranata Raymond , Vania Amelinda , Vania Rachel , Victor Andi Arus
Published: August 2020

Purpose:

Intravitreal ranibizumab (RNB) and dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DII) were developed in the recent past and has been widely used for macular edema secondary to BRVO. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab (RNB) compared to dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DII) in patients with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

Methods:

We performed a comprehensive search on topics that assess RNB and DII in patients with macular edema secondary to BRVO from several electronic databases.

Results:

There were 678 subjects from five studies. Ranibizumab was associated with a greater increase in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA; mean difference 9.13, I2: 0%) compared to DII. Ranibizumab also demonstrated a greater ⩾10 (OR 2.76, I2: 0%) and ⩾15 letters (OR 2.78, I2: 0%) gain. RNB has better BCVA (logMAR scale) improvement at 6 months’ follow up (mean difference −0.15, I2: 64%) in favor of RNB. Higher IOP was found in DII group on follow-up (mean difference −2.92, I2: 89%) and RNB has lesser IOP ⩾10 mmHg increase compared to DII (OR 0.08, I2: 0%). Cataract formation and/or progression was less in RNB (OR 0.53, I2: 75%). The need for rescue laser was similar the two groups.

Conclusion:

Intravitreal RNB was more effective with less pronounced effect on IOP and cataract formation and/or progression compared to DII for patients with macular edema secondary to BRVO.
Trocar assisted nonappositional repair of iridodialysis
Authors: Narang Priya , Agarwal Amar
Published: August 2020

Purpose:

To describe trocar-assisted method of Nonappositional repair of iridodialysis.

Methods:

The technique described involves placement of a 25 G trocar at the limbus wherein the lumen of the cannula works as a guide to introduce a double arm polypropylene suture attached to the long arm needle thereby preventing any accidental entrapment of corneal fibers into the needle.

Results:

The technique was performed in 7 cases and no entrapment of corneal tissue was observed while maneuvering the suture needle through paracentesis incision during an iridodialysis repair procedure. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography demonstrated closure of the limbal trocar wound at 1-week follow-up. No incidence of wound leak or Descemets membrane detachment was observed.

Conclusion:

The technique allows performing iridodialysis repair in technically challenging situations by directing the needle appropriately and preventing any undulating movement inside the anterior chamber. The trocar-assisted method serves as an effective method to perform non-appositional iridodialysis repair.
Thyroid Tumor: Investigating MicroRNA-21 Gene Suppression in FTC and FTA
Authors: Nwadiugwu Martin C
Published: August 2020

The follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA) are malignant and benign thyroid neoplasms, respectively. MicroRNA (miRNA) expressions have been touted as an indicator for prognostic outcome in thyroid cancer. The study objective was to explore genes suppressed by miRNA-21-3p and miRNA-21-5p for potential therapeutic insights. Differentially expressed genes and their functional enrichment were obtained from 25 FTA and 27 FTC gene microarray dataset GSE82208 using R and Bioconductor tools. The miRNA target sites were obtained from miR-TarBase database. A unique gene list of differentially expressed FTC and FTA were entered into miR-TarBase database to obtain target genes for both miRNA-21-3p and miRNA-21-5p. The result showed that miRNA-21-3p and miRNA-21-5p downregulated TIMP3, MAT2A, TGFBR2, and PLAT gene in FTC and FTA leading to significant expression of acute phase-response to metallothionein, metal ions, and unfolded protein response (UPR). The computational analysis suggests that the suppression of miRNA-21-3p and miRNA-21-5p could be an intervention strategy for therapeutically targeting FTC and FTA treatments.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 and the Use of Biologics in Patients With Psoriasis
Authors: Ladda Matthew , Lynde Charles , Fleming Patrick
Published: August 2020

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), a respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus designated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has rapidly spread worldwide and has been recognized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. Patients with altered immunologic function are at higher risk of acquiring COVID-19. In patients with psoriasis, inhibition of select pro-inflammatory cytokines through the use of biologic agents has been shown to be an effective treatment option. Pro-inflammatory cytokines have key immunomodulatory effects and are known to be involved in the hosts’ immune response to a variety of viral infections. Though little is currently known about the role of inflammatory cytokines in COVID-19, early reports have shown patients with severe disease to have elevated serum levels of select inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha. This review will summarize key information that is currently known about COVID-19, the role of select cytokines in viral defense, and important considerations for patients with psoriasis using biologic agents during this pandemic. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to discontinue biologic therapy in patients with psoriasis who have not tested positive for COVID-19. The decision to pause biologic therapy should be considered on a case-by-case basis in patients in higher risk populations, and should take into account individual risk and benefit. Until more is known about the impact of biologic therapy on COVID-19 outcomes, we recommend patients with psoriasis who test positive for COVID-19 be instructed to discontinue or postpone biologic treatment until they have recovered from infection.
Conscientiousness and deterioration in employment status in multiple sclerosis over 3 years
Authors: Jaworski Michael G , Fuchs Tom A , Dwyer Michael G , Wojcik Curtis , Zivadinov Robert , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Benedict Ralph HB
Published: August 2020

Background:

Physical and cognitive symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) correlate with unemployment cross-sectionally. Prospective studies, rarely published, have not accounted for personality traits such as Conscientiousness.

Methods:

In a 3-year study of 70 people with MS (PwMS) and 25 healthy controls (HCs), we evaluated employment status using online interviews capturing hours worked, negative work events, employee relations, and accommodations. Deteriorating employment status (DES) was defined as reduced employment (full-time to part-time or negative work events). In PwMS, we explored workplace accommodations, disclosure of disease status, and physical/psychological predictors of DES (e.g. Conscientiousness).

Results:

At follow-up, DES was 0% in HCs and 25.7% in MS, and 62.7% of work-stable PwMS used at least one work accommodation, most frequently, flexible hours. At baseline, DES-PwMS had lower education ( p = 0.009), lower Conscientiousness ( p < 0.001), more fatigue ( p = 0.033), and performed worse on Symbol Digit Modalities Test ( p = 0.013), Brief Visuospatial Memory Test—Revised ( p = 0.041), and Nine-Hole Peg Test ( p = 0.046) relative to work-stable. The model predicting DES was significant (χ2(7) = 30.936, p < 0.001) and baseline Conscientiousness accounted for more variance in DES ( p = 0.004) than other factors. Higher Conscientiousness PwMS were more likely to disclose their condition at work ( p = 0.038).

Conclusion:

Accommodations for low Conscientiousness, flexible hours, and physical/cognitive rehabilitation may prevent DES.
“It’s having something that you’ve done it for”: Applying Self-Determination Theory to participants’ motivations in a for-cause physical activity event
Authors: Bernhart John A , Wilcox Sara , Decker Lindsay , Ehlers Diane K , McKeever Brooke W , O’Neill Jennifer R
Published: August 2020

For-cause physical activity events reach many people. Little research has applied Self-Determination Theory to participants’ experiences in for-cause physical activity events. This qualitative study explored participants’ ( n = 18) experiences in 5K for-cause physical activity events and intention to complete future events. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Emergent coding assessed responses for themes. Constructs of competence and relatedness were most prevalent and an altruistic desire to support the cause. Participants highlighted feelings of community supporting their intention to complete future events. Overall, experiences aligned with Self-Determination Theory. Future studies may include altruism to understand leveraging opportunities for promoting physical activity.
Creative Methodologies for a Mobile Criminology: Walking as Critical Pedagogy
Authors: O’Neill Maggie , Penfold-Mounce Ruth , Honeywell David , Coward-Gibbs Matt , Crowder Harriet , Hill Ivan
Published: August 2020

In this article, we build upon research that combines walking as a research method alongside participatory and biographical research to teach criminology and generate criminological knowledge and understanding in sensory and corporeal ways. We argue for a mobile criminology that attends to space, place, and time to analyse theories and concepts in criminology, as well as to undertake and apply research. In this article we share a biographical walk with David Honeywell, a convict criminologist, and two examples of criminological walks as pedagogic methods. We suggest that through walking (as a teaching, learning, and research method) we are able to get in touch with the past, present, and future of crime, justice, and punishment in ways that foster knowledge and ‘understanding’ in corporeal, relational, and material ways forming a critical, cultural, mobile pedagogy. Walking through the city, engaging with spaces, places, and stories associated with crime, is a way of seeing and feeling the history of crime, justice, and punishment in the present, as well as offering critical and imaginative methods for doing criminology in societies on the move.
Communities of Practice of Transition: An Analytical Framework for Studying Change-Focussed Groups
Authors: Paechter Carrie , Marguerite Andolie
Published: August 2020

In this article, we consider a previously unidentified form of community of practice: the community of practice of transition. Our exemplar data come from two separate studies, one of a group for trans young people and one of an online divorce support community. Such communities differ from other communities of practice because the transition process itself is the focus and the shared practice of the community. We argue that communities of practice of transition differ from ‘classic’ communities of practice in four main ways. First, and most salient, there are differences in relation to time and its importance. Second, and following from this, there are differences in relation to the focus of trajectories into and through the group, which affect who is able to become a central member. Third, the role and characteristics of central members of the community are different from those found in a traditionally conceived community of practice: moving out of a transitional state (and, therefore, out of the community) is key to old-timer status. Finally, reified events are highly salient in communities of practice of transition, and more important than reified objects. We argue that the concept of a community of practice of transition challenges and expands many of the assumptions underpinning the community of practice as a framework for analysing the dynamics and operation of groups and how identities are forged in and through them. Most significantly, we argue that time needs to be taken more seriously in relation to communities of practice.
Epilepsy in adulthood: Prevalence, incidence, and associated antiepileptic drug use in autistic adults in a state Medicaid system
Authors: Bishop Lauren , McLean Kiley J , Rubenstein Eric
Published: August 2020

Although epilepsy commonly presents with autism in children, it is currently unknown whether established estimates represent the prevalence and incidence of epilepsy in autistic adults. Our objective was to use population-level Medicaid data to determine prevalence, incidence, and antiepileptic drug use associated with epilepsy in a unique population of autistic adults aged 21+ with (N = 2738) and without (N = 4775) intellectual disability and to compare results to adults with intellectual disability alone (N = 18,429). We found that 34.6% of autistic adults with intellectual disability and 11.1% of autistic adults without intellectual disability had epilepsy, compared to 27.0% of adults with intellectual disability alone. New incidence of epilepsy was 23.6 incident cases per 1000 person years (95% confidence interval: 21.3, 26.2) in autistic adults with intellectual disability, 7.7 incident cases per 1000 person years (95% confidence interval: 6.6, 8.9) in autistic adults without intellectual disability, and 15.9 incident cases per 1000 person years (95% confidence interval: 15.2, 16.7) in adults with intellectual disability alone. Female sex and intellectual disability were associated with increased risk of prevalent and incident epilepsy in autistic adults. Findings underscore the importance of treating prevalent epilepsy and screening and preventing incident epilepsy in autistic adults as they age.

Lay abstract

Epilepsy is more common in autistic children compared to children without autism, but we do not have good estimates of how many autistic adults have epilepsy. We used data from a full population of 7513 autistic adults who received Medicaid in Wisconsin to figure out the proportion of autistic adults who have epilepsy, as compared to 18,429 adults with intellectual disability. We also wanted to assess how often epilepsy is first diagnosed in adulthood. Finally, we wanted to see whether antiepileptic drugs are being used to treat epilepsy in autistic adults. We found that 34.6% of autistic adults with intellectual disability and 11.1% of autistic adults without intellectual disability had epilepsy, compared to 27.0% of adults with intellectual disability alone. Autistic women and autistic adults with intellectual disability were more likely than autistic men and autistic adults without intellectual disability to have both previous and new diagnoses of epilepsy. Finally, we found that antiepileptic medications are commonly prescribed to autistic people who do not have epilepsy potentially to treat mental health conditions or behavior problems, and that antiepileptic medications are not always prescribed to autistic people with epilepsy even though they are indicated as a first-line epilepsy treatment. The findings of this study highlight the need to effectively treat and prevent epilepsy in autistic adults.
Parent-identified strengths of autistic youth
Authors: Warren Nick , Eatchel Bridges , Kirby Anne V , Diener Marissa , Wright Cheryl , D’Astous Valerie
Published: August 2020

There is a need for strengths-based intervention approaches for autistic youth during the transition to adulthood. In the current study, we explored parent perspectives about youth strengths during adolescence. We combined data from three studies which included semi-structured interviews about parents’ perspectives on preparing for adulthood with autistic youth. Total participants included 39 parents of 41 autistic youth (ages 12–19 years, 88% male). Parents of autistic youth described many strengths of their children in the context of conversations about the transition to adulthood. Thematic analysis revealed three subthemes under the broad theme of parental perceptions of strengths: diverse strengths and skills, strengths counterbalanced by challenges, and strengths with supports. Diverse strengths and skills were further categorized using content analysis and included intelligence, creativity, physical abilities, and self-care skills, which notably include some areas often perceived as weaknesses for autistic people. The findings demonstrate that parents are an important source of information about youth strengths during transition planning processes. Understanding the types of strengths that parents observe in their autistic sons and daughters can help inform the development of strengths-based interventions capable of supporting the transition to adulthood.

Lay abstract

Autism is a condition frequently characterized by social and communication challenges. Because most research focuses on understanding and reducing challenges, less is known about the strengths of autistic individuals. This is especially true of those who are transitioning into adulthood. We designed this research study to provide information about how parents perceive the strengths of their autistic adolescent children prior to the transition. We reviewed 39 parent interviews from previous research about how they prepare their autistic sons and daughters for adulthood. Without prompting, parents identified many strengths of their autistic children. Diverse strengths and skills they identified included intelligence, creativity, physical abilities, and self-care skills. These strengths are interesting, as they cover traits that are often thought of as areas of difficulty for autistic youth. However, parents also talked about strengths alongside challenges, and how specific supports would be needed to help their sons and daughters fully realize their strengths. These findings are important, as they help us know more about the strengths of autistic youth and how strengths can be supported when preparing for adulthood. Our findings also help reveal strengths that are particularly apparent during the transition to adulthood.
Winner–loser effects in contentious constitutional referenda: Perceptions of procedural fairness and the Brexit referendum
Authors: van der Eijk Cees , Rose Jonathan
Published: August 2020

This article addresses a critical gap in the literature on winner–loser effects that consists of the lack of attention for highly contentious constitutional referenda. It uses unique multi-wave panel data of over 13,000 people that is unrivalled in size and richness. We estimate causal effects of the referendum on rarely studied but crucial public perceptions of the fairness of the way a referendum is conducted. These perceptions pertain to the highly contentious 2016 European Union (Brexit) referendum in the United Kingdom, which is an ideal-type example of a wider class of referenda for which similar outcomes can be expected. We use difference-in-differences methods and find winner–loser effects of a magnitude far greater than ever observed for general elections. Moreover, we find that these effects not only persist, but even grow over time. The findings have profound implications for the use of such referenda.
Trajectories and associations between depression and physical activity in patients with cardiovascular disease during participation in an internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy programme
Authors: Johansson Peter , Svensson Erland , Andersson Gerhard , Lundgren Johan
Published: August 2020

Background

There is a lack of knowledge about internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy in patients with cardiovascular disease, and its effects on depressive symptoms and physical activity.

Aim

To examine trajectories of depressive symptoms and physical activity, and to explore if these trajectories are linked with the delivery of internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy.

Methods

A secondary-analysis of data collected in a randomised controlled trial that evaluated the effects of a 9-week internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy programme compared to an online discussion forum on depressive symptoms in cardiovascular disease patients. Data were collected at baseline, once weekly during the 9-week intervention period and at the 9-week follow-up. The Montgomery Åsberg depression rating scale – self-rating (MADRS-S) was used to measure depressive symptoms. Two modified items from the physical activity questionnaire measuring frequency and length of physical activity were merged to form a physical activity factor.

Results

After 2 weeks the internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy group had a temporary worsening in depressive symptoms. At 9-week follow-up, depressive symptoms (P < 0.001) and physical activity (P = 0.02) had improved more in the internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy group. Only in the internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy group, was a significant correlation (r = –0.39, P = 0.002) between changes in depressive symptoms and changes in physical activity found. Structural equation analyses revealed that internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy decreased depressive symptoms, and that a decrease in depression, in turn, resulted in an increase in physical activity.

Conclusions

Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy was more effective than an online discussion forum to decrease depressive symptoms and increase physical activity. Importantly, a decrease in depressive symptoms needs to precede an increase in physical activity.
Computational design, engineering and manufacturing of a material-efficient 3D printed lattice structure
Authors: Naboni Roberto , Kunic Anja , Breseghello Luca
Published: August 2020

Building with additive manufacturing is an increasingly relevant research topic in the field of Construction 4.0, where designers are seeking higher levels of automation, complexity and precision compared to conventional construction methods. As an answer to the increasing problem of scarcity of resources, the presented research exploits the potential of Fused Deposition Modelling in the production of a lightweight load-responsive cellular lattice structure at the architectural scale. The article offers an extensive insight into the computational processes involved in the design, engineering, analysis, optimization and fabrication of a material-efficient, fully 3D printed, lattice structure. Material, structure and manufacturing features are integrated within the design development in a comprehensive computational workflow. The article presents methods and results while discussing the project as a material-efficient approach to complex structures.
Positive Peers Mobile Application Reduces Stigma Perception Among Young People Living With HIV
Authors: Step Mary M. , Knight Kristina , McMillen Smith Jennifer , Lewis Steven A. , Russell Theodore J. , Avery Ann K.
Published: August 2020

Background. The burden of HIV-related stigma is associated with disparities in linkage to HIV care and viral suppression. The Positive Peers smartphone application aims to provide young people living with HIV with a supportive virtual community to counteract perceived stigma and better manage their illness. Method. A mixed-methods study that included a prospective survey and in-depth interviewing was conducted with young adults living with HIV, aged 13 to 34 years (n = 128). As part of a larger study, participants used the Positive Peers mobile application and reported demographic data, perceived stigma, and other psychosocial variables at enrollment, 6 months, and 12 months (n = 128). Select participants (n = 15) described their experiences in audio-recorded qualitative interviews. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed for potential themes and patterns. Results. A longitudinal multivariate model was developed to assess changes in stigma over the study period, overall, and with respect to participant characteristics. Baseline and 6-month stigma scores were higher for White and Other ethnicity persons relative to Black participants. At the 12-month time point, no statistical differences in stigma scores based on ethnicity were apparent. Interviews revealed Positive Peers as a nondiscriminatory community that offered a sense of belonging that appeared to have a restorative effect on negative self-image. Conclusions. Positive Peers provides a protected virtual space where young people living with HIV can converge in the common desire to support similar others. Mobile health applications that offer peer interaction may provide a persistent sense of belonging that neutralizes internalized stigmas in addition to benefits derived from application activity.
Does the Use of Motivational Interviewing Skills Promote Change Talk Among Young People Living With HIV in a Digital HIV Care Navigation Text Messaging Intervention?
Authors: Arayasirikul Sean , Turner Caitlin , Trujillo Dillon , Le Victory , Beltran Theo , Wilson Erin C.
Published: August 2020

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a counseling approach to facilitate behavior change. MI has been widely applied to in-person–delivered, health behavior change interventions; however, mobile health (mHealth) interventions are beginning to adopt and expand the reach of MI in health promotion practice with the use of mobile phones and digital platforms. This study examines whether the use of MI skills (e.g., OARS [open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summaries]) promotes change talk in an SMS text messaging intervention for young people living with HIV in San Francisco. We undertake a novel method of analyzing text message intervention data in order to characterize the microprocesses of change talk. Data were collected via computer-assisted self-interviewing surveys of self-reported sociodemographic information, and two-way text messages facilitated by a digital HIV care navigator during the 6-month intervention. We qualitatively assessed all text messages exchanged for the utilization of four basic MI skills on the part of the interventionist (OARS) and participant change talk. This study found that high levels of all four MI skills—and moderate levels of open-ended questions only—were associated with more change talk compared to low levels. Additionally, using three or more MI skills was associated with change talk. Future research is needed to inform how to analyze large amounts of data passively collected as a native part of implementing mHealth and text messaging applications of MI interventions.
OPT-In For Life: A Mobile Technology–Based Intervention to Improve HIV Care Continuum for Young Adults Living With HIV
Authors: Zurlo John , Du Ping , Haynos Alexander , Collins Verbenia , Eshak Tarek , Whitener Cynthia
Published: August 2020

Young adults living with HIV (YALH) have lower rates of retention in care and HIV viral suppression. Multiple barriers exist to engage YALH in care. We developed and implemented a multifaceted, mobile application-based intervention, “OPT-In for Life,” by targeting YALH to encourage retention in care and eventually viral suppression. The app integrated multiple user-friendly features for YALH to manage their HIV care, including a two-way secure messaging function, HIV-related laboratory results, and appointment or medication reminders. We recruited 92 YALH who were 18 to 34 years old and were newly diagnosed with HIV, had a history of falling out of care, or had a detectable HIV viral load into this intervention. Study participants used the app to manage their HIV care and to communicate and interact with their HIV care team. During the intervention period, the retention rate among our study participants increased from 41.3% at baseline to 78.6% at 6-month follow-up, maintained at 12-month follow-up (79.8%), and slightly decreased to 73.4% at 18-month follow-up but it was still significantly higher than the baseline retention rate ( p < .0001). The viral suppression rate (HIV RNA <200 copies/ml) increased from 64.1% at baseline to about 85% at 6-month and at 12-month follow-up and reached 91.4% at 18-month ( p = .0002) among participants who were retained in care. Our study demonstrated using a HIPAA-compliant mobile application as an effective intervention to engage YALH in care. This mobile technology–based intervention can be incorporated into routine clinical practice to improve HIV care continuum.
Qualitative Evaluation of Social Media and Mobile Technology Interventions Designed to Improve HIV Health Outcomes for Youth and Young Adults Living With HIV: A HRSA SPNS Initiative
Authors: Brooks Ronald A. , Nieto Omar , Swendeman Dallas , Myers Janet , Lepe Ricardo Mendoza , Cabral Alejandra , Kao Uyen , Donohoe Thomas , Comulada Warren S.
Published: August 2020

Youth and young adults living with HIV (YYALH) are less likely to be engaged in HIV care, adhere to their medications, and achieve viral suppression compared to older adult populations. In the United States, the majority of YYALH belong to racial/ethnic, sexual, and gender minority groups. HIV care interventions are needed that specifically target YYALH and that exploit the use of social media and mobile technology (SMMT) platforms, where youth and young adults have a ubiquitous presence. We conducted a qualitative evaluation of SMMT interventions included in a Health Resources and Services Administration Special Projects of National Significance initiative designed to improve medical care engagement, retention, and medication adherence to achieve viral suppression among YYALH. However, in this study, only young adults living with HIV (YALH) ages 18 to 34 years participated. A total of 48 YALH were interviewed. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and revealed three main themes supporting the usefulness of the SMMT interventions, which included (1) acceptability of SMMT interventions in managing HIV care with subthemes of medical information accessibility, reminders, and self-efficacy; (2) feelings of support and personal connection afforded by SMMT interventions; and (3) SMMT interventions help to alleviate negative feelings about status and mitigate HIV-related stigma. A few participants identified problems with using their respective intervention, primarily related to the functionality of the technologies. Overall, findings from our qualitative evaluation suggest that SMMT-based interventions have the potential to increase engagement and retention in care, support YALH in adhering to medication, and help them adjust to their diagnosis.
Autoethnographic Dance and Transformative Learning: Exploring Self-Reflexive Identity Work and Change
Authors: Baldwin Cheryl K. , Motter Alyssa E.
Published: August 2020

This retrospective case study investigated how learners in a transformative autoethnographic dance course engaged in and navigated self-reflexive identity work and corresponding learning outcomes. Data were drawn from 15 diverse undergraduate students enrolled in a course for credit at an urban community college. Findings indicated that learners used choreographic motifs to evoke emotional aspects of a biographic experience and to manage their emotional vulnerability. Learners differed in their self-disclosure, types of reflection, and degree of resolution in their dance narratives. Transformation of identity was found for one third of the class with evidence of change both from exploration of preconscious emotions and epistemic change in perspective.
Brazilian Students Studying in the United States: Perceptions of Their Lived Experiences 6 Months After Returning Home
Authors: Conceição Simone C. O. , Mina Liliana , Southern Todd
Published: August 2020

A key challenge for international students in the United States is a readiness to study and live in a culture that is vastly different from their own. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of the lived experiences of Brazilian students studying in the United States six months after returning home. Thirty-three Brazilian students responded to an open-ended, self-reflective online questionnaire focusing on their lived experience in the U.S. Three major themes emerged from the data based on the interactions between the multiple systems Brazilian students lived in the U.S.: personal growth and development, perspective transformation, and change in worldview. Participants claimed that they perceived their experiences influenced their perceptions about their own country and culture and gave them a new perspective expanding their horizons about themselves and their role in the world. The article concludes with practical implications, study limitations, and suggestions for future research.
Prospective, Randomized, Comparative, Multicenter Study of the Hybrid Ultrasonic Advanced Bipolar Device and the Ultrasonic Coagulating Shears in Open Thyroidectomy
Authors: Kim Wan Wook , Cho Jihyoung , Jeon Young San , Kim Insoo , Jeong Young Ju , Choi Jungeun , Lee Moo Hyun , Lee Jehyung , Kang Jin Gu , Tufano Ralph P. , Kang Su Hwan
Published: August 2020

Background. The hybrid ultrasonic advanced bipolar device (HUB) that integrates ultrasonic energy and advanced bipolar energy was recently developed and applied to thyroid surgery. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of HUB and ultrasonic coagulating shears for open thyroidectomy. Methods. A total of 200 patients were enrolled from April to September 2017 in this prospective, randomized, multicenter study. Patients were randomly assigned to an ultrasonic group (n = 101) or a hybrid group (n = 99). Results. Operation times were similar in the 2 study groups, that is, 54.2 ± 25.2 minutes in the ultrasonic group and 50.2 ± 21.6 minutes in the hybrid group. Postoperative surgical results and morbidities were no different in the 2 groups. However, the total amount of bleeding was significantly less in the hybrid group (13.0 ± 17.7 mg vs 8.6 ± 11.5 mg; P = .042). Conclusions. Our study showed that there was no significant difference between the 2 groups in postoperative surgical results and morbidity. The total bleeding amount was significantly less in the hybrid group. The study shows that HUB is comparable to the ultrasonic coagulating shears in terms of efficacy and safety during thyroid surgery.
Using an Ecological and Systems Approach to Support Early Learning Readiness
Authors: Coddett Andrea , Orr Margaret Terry
Published: August 2020

This case is to help district leaders and community partners understand the complexity of pursuing a principles-based approach to improving early school readiness. Wyckoff Public Schools adopted the Boston Basics to support young children’s early learning and readiness for school. It required district leaders and partners to work across organizational and institutional sectors through trial-and-error efforts. The case describes the complexity, learning challenges, and early inquiry cycles that the district pursued to turn this model into a community-embedded educational change and student-readiness strategy. It reflects how systemic improvement theories—particularly the ecological perspective and improvement science—guided their approach and identified areas for improvement.
Percutaneous Closure of Patent Foramen Ovale in the Setting of Pulmonary Embolism (Right-Left Shunt Causing Severe Hypoxia)
Authors: Johnson Joel , Kodra Arber , Basman Craig , Scheinerman S. Jacob , Patel Nirav , Kliger Chad
Published: August 2020

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is well known to cause paradoxical embolism and stroke, but a less appreciated and life-threatening complication can occur when combined with severe pulmonary embolism (PE). Acutely elevated right-sided pressures from right ventricular strain due to PE can lead to right-to-left (R-L) shunting through the PFO and exacerbate hypoxia. We report a case of a 50-year-old female patient with massive PE with further desaturation from R-L shunting from a PFO that benefitted from percutaneous closure of the interartrial communication. Our patient recovered without any complications and had excellent long-term follow-up.
Strong Men, Strong Communities: Design of a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Diabetes Prevention Intervention for American Indian and Alaska Native Men
Authors: Sinclair Ka‘imi , Carty Cara , Gonzales Kelly , Nikolaus Cassandra , Gillespie Lucas , Buchwald Dedra
Published: August 2020

Type 2 diabetes is a serious global epidemic that disproportionately affects disadvantaged populations. American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIs/ANs) have the highest rates of diabetes in the nation with a prevalence of 14.7% in 2018, more than twice that of non-Hispanic Whites. AI/AN men have the highest prevalence of diagnosed type 2 diabetes (14.5%) compared to non-Hispanic Black (11.4%), non-Hispanic Asian (10.0%), and non-Hispanic White (8.6%) men. Several landmark clinical trials have shown that lifestyle interventions can effectively prevent or delay the onset of diabetes among those at risk, including in AIs/ANs. Despite positive outcomes for AIs/ANs in these studies, very few were men. To date, there have been no concerted efforts to recruit and retain AI/AN men in interventions that promote weight loss and healthy lifestyles to prevent diabetes, and they remain underrepresented in these types of studies. This article describes the design and methods of the first randomized controlled trial of a diabetes prevention program with a study sample comprised entirely of AI/AN men. Research to date has demonstrated suboptimal patterns of recruitment and retention of AI/AN men, resulting in their virtual absence in health and intervention research. Effective methods to recruit and retain AI/AN men, and potential benefit gained from participation in diabetes prevention research, are unknown for this population who experience a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes. The study design presented in this article offers promising insights to help remedy these important shortcomings in the science of recruitment and retention of AI/AN men in research.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension with stenosis of a solitary occipital venous sinus treated with stenting
Authors: Al Balushi Ali , Oliveira Cristiano , Patsalides Athos
Published: August 2020

A 47-year-old live kidney-donor woman presented with headaches and blurred vision. Neuro-ophthalmological examination demonstrated papilledema and right eye inferior nasal defect. Brain MRV showed no sinus thrombosis but solitary right venous sinus draining the torcular Herophili to right jugular bulb. Lumbar puncture revealed elevated CSF opening pressure of 40 cm H2O with normal composition. She was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). She did not tolerate medical management and declined CSF diversion surgery. Cerebral angiography and venography showed venous outflow drainage from torcular Herophili through a solitary occipital sinus which has distal severe stenosis and pressure gradient of 10 mmHg. Balloon angioplasty and stenting of the occipital sinus were performed. Post-stenting, the stenosis and pressure gradient resolved. At 3-months follow-up, her symptoms and papilledema had resolved and CSF opening pressure was normal at 15 cm H2O. Aberrant cerebral venous anatomy may cause IIH and can be treatable with neuroendovascular techniques.
Periprosthetic seroma occurrence after femoropopliteal bypass grafting: Surgical management after failure of non-surgical measures in relieving symptoms
Authors: Adedigba Joseph A , Volk Angela S , Roach Harry M
Published: August 2020

Objective

Periprosthetic seroma is a rare complication of femoropopliteal bypass grafting. Periprosthetic seroma can be defined as the collection of non-infected serous fluid around a prosthetic arterial graft. There is a dearth of literature on how to manage periprosthetic seroma occurrence after femoropopliteal bypass especially in patients whose symptoms do not improve with typical conservative measures. Method/Results: This report highlights the case of a 70-year-old patient who had a femoropopliteal bypass using a 6 mm Propaten graft for peripheral arterial disease. The patient subsequently presented with leg edema. Leg ultrasound and computed tomography arteriogram showed a periprosthetic seroma with a patent graft. Patient was initially managed conservatively and semi-conservatively and ultimately with aggressive therapy utilizing exploration and surgical resection of the seroma capsule.

Conclusion

Only surgical resection of the seroma capsule produced definitive resolution of the seroma and symptoms. Thigh exploration and surgical resection can be considered as part of the management modalities of periprosthetic seroma occurring after femoropopliteal bypass especially in patients who do not respond to typical conservative measures such as elevation, compression stockings, and diuretics.
Assessment of cardio-ankle vascular index in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm: An observational study
Authors: Aykan Ahmet Çağrı , Çetin Mustafa , Kalaycıoğlu Ezgi , Menteşe Ümit
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Arterial stiffness is associated with major adverse cardiovascular events. The aim of this study is to investigate arterial stiffness by cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

Methods

This observational and cross-sectional study involved 59 subjects with AAA and 32 healthy subjects. All subjects underwent ultrasonography examination. CAVI was measured by VaSera-1000 CAVI instrument.

Results

Mean abdominal aortic diameter of AAA patients and controls were 43.88 ± 9.28 mm and 20.43 ± 3.14 mm, consecutively. Baseline clinical characteristics of the patients and controls were similar for age, presence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and smoking. Left ventricle ejection fraction and Left ventricle mass index (LVMI) were similar between groups. CAVI was significantly higher in patients with AAA than controls (9.74 ± 1.50 vs. 7.60 ± 1.07, p < 0.001). CAVI was positively correlated with AAA diameter ( r = 0.461, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with left ventricle ejection fraction ( r= –0.254, p = 0.015). CAVI >8.3 had a sensitivity 89.8% and a specificity of 78.1% for predicting the presence of AAA in ROC analysis (area under curve = 0.897, 95%CI = 0.816–0.951, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

CAVI is increased in patients with AAA. Increased arterial stiffness may be a mechanical link between AAA, coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease or a common mechanism effects the arterial stiffness, coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease and AAA. Therefore, CAVI may be used as a valuable marker for risk stratification for the development of AAA in susceptible patients.
Carceral protectionism and the perpetually (in)vulnerable
Authors: Rodriguez SM , Ben-Moshe Liat , Rakes H
Published: August 2020

The United States relies on carceralism—mass incarceration and institutionalization, surveillance and control—for its continued operation. The criminalization of difference, particularly in relation to race, disability and queerness, renders certain people as perpetually subject to state violence due to their perceived unruliness. This article relies on two case studies, in Toledo, Ohio and Brooklyn, New York to question the construction and co-optation of vulnerability by state agents and focus on interrelated instances of state violence done under the guise of protectionism of and from unruly subjects. We then discuss the response to these instances of violence- from the state in the form of carceral ableism and sanism, and from local activists trying to navigate the shifting contours of protectionist violence by enacting queer transformative justice.
High Frequency of Dermatological Complications in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Web-Based Survey
Authors: Lombardo Fortunato , Passanisi Stefano , Tinti Davide , Messina Maria Francesca , Salzano Giuseppina , Rabbone Ivana
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Despite advances in the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D), there is an increasing incidence of skin reactions related to diabetes devices such as patch pumps and glucose sensors. Aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of dermatological complications in pediatric patients with T1D using technological devices.

Methods:

Online survey regarding skin reactions related to the use of patch pumps and/or glucose sensors was administered to families of children and adolescents (0-17 years) with T1D. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, duration of diabetes, and clinical features of dermatological complications if present.

Results:

Our study population consisted of 139 patients (female 51.8%) aged 11.1 ± 3.3 years. More than half (51.1%) experienced skin reactions due to patch pumps or glucose sensors. Dermatological complications were mainly caused by continuous glucose monitoring (56.3% of total). Timing of appearance of dermatological reactions varied from a few days to several months after the introduction of the device. The application of hypoallergenic barrier bandages was the most frequently adopted measure to solve the issue.

Conclusions:

Our study confirmed high frequency of dermatological complications among pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes. Well-designed studies are awaited to provide clear recommendations to minimize the burden of skin issues related to technological devices.
The Battle of Frame Building: The Reciprocal Relationship between Journalists and Frame Sponsors
Authors: Wichgers Lisanne , Jacobs Laura , van Spanje Joost
Published: August 2020

The idea that journalists make use of framing is widespread. However, systematic studies of the role of frame sponsors—that is, nonmedia actors who advocate a certain frame package—in influencing the patterns in frame package use by journalists are limited. Which characteristics make frame sponsors successful in frame building, and why? In this study, we propose a new way of understanding the relationship between journalists and frame sponsors, by studying to what extent high authority and having a strong stake in an issue are important predictors of frame coverage, and whether a bidirectional relationship between frame sponsors and journalists can be discerned in frame building. We examine the two court cases against Geert Wilders, leader of the Dutch Freedom Party (PVV), for alleged hate speech (2009–2020). Based on a content analysis of media input, such as statements, social media posts, and press releases ( N = 220) of relevant frame sponsors as well as news stories about the court cases ( N = 691), we demonstrate that there is a reciprocal relationship between frame sponsors and journalists in frame building. Frame sponsors influence journalists in the use of frame packages, but framing in news reports also stimulates frame sponsors to communicate similar frame packages in the future. Actors with high levels of authority and a strong stake in the issue are more successful in getting their preferred frame packages across. By acknowledging the bidirectional relationship and expanding knowledge on who benefits most from this relationship, this study advances literature on frame building.
What Makes News Newsworthy: An Experimental Test of Where a News Story Is Published (or Not) and Its Perceived Newsworthiness
Authors: Hassell Hans J. G.
Published: August 2020

Previous research has attributed media convergence to, among other things, where the news was originally published. That research, however, has struggled to identify causal relationships between a news item’s publication in a particular outlet and journalists’ perceptions of a story’s newsworthiness. This relationship is difficult to identify because of the correlation between publication in a particular outlet and many other factors that also impact newsworthiness. This paper uses an experiment embedded within a survey of over 1,500 U.S. political journalists to test the impact of a news story’s previous publication history on journalists’ views of the newsworthiness of that news item. Compared with previously unpublished stories, the publication of a news story in a national paper has no significant positive effect on the perceived newsworthiness of a story. The origin of a story in a local outlet, however, causes journalists to perceive that story to be less newsworthy.