bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lumen-oriented versus wall-oriented treatment strategies for intracranial aneurysms – A systematic review of suggested therapeutic concepts
Authors: Grüter Basil E , von Faber-Castell Fabio , Marbacher Serge
Published: November 2021

The development of new treatment strategies for intracranial aneurysms (IAs) has been and continues to be a major interest in neurovascular research. Initial treatment concepts were mainly based on a physical-mechanistic disease understanding for IA occlusion (lumen-oriented therapies). However, a growing body of literature indicates the important role of aneurysm wall biology (wall-oriented therapies) for complete IA obliteration. This systematic literature review identified studies that explored endovascular treatment strategies for aneurysm treatment in a preclinical setting. Of 5278 publications screened, 641 studies were included, categorized, and screened for eventual translation in a clinical trial. Lumen-oriented strategies included (1) enhanced intraluminal thrombus organization, (2) enhanced intraluminal packing, (3) bridging of the intraluminal space, and (4) other, alternative concepts. Wall-oriented strategies included (1) stimulation of proliferative response, (2) prevention of aneurysm wall cell injury, (3) inhibition of inflammation and oxidative stress, and (4) inhibition of extracellular matrix degradation. Overall, lumen-oriented strategies numerically still dominate over wall-oriented strategies. Among the plethora of suggested preclinical treatment strategies, only a small minority were translated into clinically applicable concepts (36 of 400 lumen-oriented and 6 of 241 wall-oriented). This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview that may provide a starting point for the development of new treatment strategies.
D* from diffusion MRI reveals a correspondence between ventricular cerebrospinal fluid volume and flow in the ischemic rodent model
Authors: Jang MinJung , Han SoHyun , Cho HyungJoon
Published: November 2021

Quantitative measurement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow and volume and longitudinal monitoring of CSF dynamics provide insights into the compensatory characteristics of post-stroke CSF. In this study, we compared the MRI pseudo-diffusion index ( D*) of live and sacrificed rat brains to confirm the effect of ventricular CSF flow on diffusion signals. We observed the relationship between the CSF peak velocities and D* through Monte Carlo (MC) simulations to further understand the source of D* contrast. We also determined the dominant CSF flow using D* in three directions. Finally, we investigated the dynamic evolutions of ventricular CSF flow and volume in a stroke rat model ( n = 8) from preoperative to up to 45 days after surgery and determined the correlation between ventricular CSF volume and flow. MC simulations showed a strong positive correlation between the CSF peak velocity and D* ( r = 0.99). The dominant CSF flow variations in the 3D ventricle could be measured using the maximum D* map. A longitudinal positive correlation between ventricular CSF volume and D* was observed in the lateral ( r = 0.74) and ventral-third ( r = 0.81) ventricles, respectively. The directional D* measurements provide quantitative CSF volume and flow information, which would provide useful insights into ischemic stroke with diffusion MRI.
Proposal of an algorithm to evaluate geometric distortion and artifact spreading in digital breast tomosynthesis
Authors: Cesário Greiciane J , Paixão Lucas , Santos Reneilson , Chevalier Margarita , Attie Márcia RP , Nogueira Maria S , Souza Divanizia N
Published: November 2021

Background

According to the European Reference Organization for Quality Assurance Breast Screening and European Diagnostic Services, the spatial accuracy of reconstructed images and reconstruction artifacts must be evaluated in digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) quality control procedures.

Purpose

To propose a computational algorithm to evaluate the geometric distortion and artifact spreading (GDAS) in DBT images.

Material and Methods

The proposed algorithm analyzed tomosynthesis images of a phantom that contains aluminum spheres (1 mm in diameter) arranged in a rectangular matrix spaced 5 cm apart that was inserted in 5-mm-thick polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

Results

The obtained results were compared with the values provided by the algorithm developed by the National Coordinating Center for the Physics of Mammography (NCCPM). In the comparison, the results depended on the dimensions of the region of interest (ROI). This dependence proves the benefit of the proposed algorithm because it allows the user to select the ROI.

Conclusion

The computational algorithm proved to be useful for the evaluation of GDAS in DBT images, in the same way as the reference algorithm (NCCPM), as well as allowing the selection of the ROI dimensions that best suit the spreading of the artifact in the analyzed images.
Disseminated coelomic xanthogranulomatosis in eclectus parrots (Eclectus roratus) and budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)
Authors: Donovan Taryn A. , Garner Michael M. , Phalen David , Reavill Drury , Monette Sebastien , Le Roux Alexandre B. , Hanson Melissa , Chen Sue , Brown Cyndi , Echeverri Catalina , Quesenberry Katherine
Published: November 2021

Xanthogranulomatosis is an inflammatory lesion characterized by lipid-containing macrophages, extracellular lipid, hemorrhage, and necrosis. We describe disseminated intracoelomic xanthogranulomatosis in 5 eclectus parrots ( Eclectus roratus) and 2 budgerigars ( Melopsittacus undulatus). Postmortem, clinicopathologic, and historical case material was reviewed. Ages ranged from 3 to 24 years; there were 5 males and 2 females. Table food was included in the diet of 3/5 cases, and animal products were included in 2/3 cases. Common clinicopathologic abnormalities included leukocytosis (4/5 cases) and elevated concentrations of bile acids (3/4 cases) and cholesterol within 6 months prior to death (2/4 cases). At postmortem examination, all 7 birds had grossly visible, irregular, soft, tan to yellow, amorphous plaques distributed on the surfaces of the viscera and body wall. Histologic evaluation and oil red O stain revealed xanthogranulomatous inflammation with phagocytized and extracellular lipid, necrosis, cholesterol clefts, fibrosis, and mineralization. Infectious agents were not identified with special stains in all cases. Concurrent hepatobiliary disease was present in 6/7 cases, and 6/7 had lipid accumulation within the parenchyma of various visceral organs. Five cases had atherosclerosis of great vessels. We describe a unique form of disseminated coelomic xanthogranulomatosis in 2 psittacine species. This condition should be recognized as a differential diagnosis in cases of disseminated coelomic mass formation and coelomic distension in psittacine birds, particularly in eclectus parrots and budgerigars.
Land, land banks and land back: Accounting, social reproduction and Indigenous resurgence
Authors: Scobie Matthew , Finau Glenn , Hallenbeck Jessica
Published: November 2021

This paper situates Indigenous social reproduction as a duality; as both a site of primitive accumulation and as a critical, resurgent, land-based practice. Drawing on three distinct cases from British Columbia, Canada, Aotearoa New Zealand and Bua, Fiji, we illustrate how accounting techniques can be a key mechanism with which Indigenous modes of life are brought to the market and are often foundational to the establishment of markets. We argue that accounting practices operate at the vanguard of primitive accumulation by extracting once invaluable outsides (e.g. Indigenous land and bodies) and rendering these either valuable or valueless for the social reproduction of settler society. The commodification of Indigenous social reproduction sustains the conditions that enable capitalism to flourish through primitive accumulation. However, we privilege Indigenous agency, resistance and resurgence in our analysis to illustrate that these techniques of commodification through accounting are not inevitable. They are resisted or wielded towards Indigenous alternatives at every point.
Corruption-Driven Inequalities in Access to Adult Education
Authors: Gerganov Alexander , Ilieva-Trichkova Petya , Boyadjieva Pepka
Published: November 2021

The article aims to show that taking into account diverse characteristics of the wider social environment is indispensable for a better understanding of participation in adult education (PAE). It explores the association of corruption as a macro factor with PAE, arguing for an integrated approach to PAE. By using two indexes for corruption at country level Corruption Perception Index and the Index of Public Integrity—and micro-data for adults aged 25–64 from 29 European countries in the Adult Education Survey, 2016, as well as by applying random-effects logit models, this study has demonstrated that a country's higher corruption level is associated with the lower probability of PAE. Our article also reveals that the relationships between individual-level variables such as gender, higher education, social background, and PAE are embedded in a wider social milieu, and corruption is an essential characteristic of that milieu which deepens some of the inequalities in PAE.
The American Ghetto, Gangster, and Respect on the Streets of Copenhagen: Media(tion)s between Structure and Street Culture
Authors: Kalkan Hakan
Published: November 2021

“Street culture” is often considered a response to structural factors. However, the relationship between culture and structure has rarely been empirically analyzed. This article analyzes the role of three media representations of American street culture and gangsters—two films and the music of a rap artist—in the street culture of a disadvantaged part of Copenhagen. Based on years of ethnographic fieldwork, this article demonstrates that these media representations are highly valuable to and influential among young men because of their perceived similarity between their intersectional structural positions and those represented in the media. Thus, the article illuminates the interaction between structural and cultural factors in street culture. It further offers a local explanation of the scarcely studied phenomenon of the influence of mass media on street culture, and a novel, media-based, local explanation of global similarities in different street cultures.
Early onset left ventricular remodeling in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus; Insight from 3-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Agha Hala M , Othman Mahmoud A , El-Saiedi Sonia , El Zahrae Hassan Fatma , Taher Heba , El-Sisi Amal , Sobhy Rodina , AbdelMassih Antoine
Published: November 2021

Background

Early diagnosis and treatment of myocardial affection in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are crucial.

Objectives

To evaluate the ventricular systolic function in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (j-SLE) patients by 3-D speckle tracking echocardiography (3D-STE) and to determine the predictors of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction if present.

Methods

Twenty-six SLE patients without heart failure and 21 healthy controls were studied by standard echocardiogram and 3D-STE. Conventional parameters included LV ejection fraction (EF), fractional shortening (FS), and mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE). Global LV strain (GLS) and global area strain (GAS) were obtained by 3D-STE. Medical records, including diagnosis criteria, duration of disease, and SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) were evaluated.

Results

The mean age was similar in patients and controls 11.42 vs 11.48 years p  =  0.93. The mean duration of the disease was 1.87 ± 1.02 years and SLEDAI ranged from 0 to 9. By conventional and tissue Doppler imaging echocardiography, only MAPSE was significantly lower in SLE patients compared to controls (14.56 vs 18.46 mm, p < 0.001). By 3D speckle tracking echocardiography, GLS and GAS were significantly reduced in SLE patients compared to controls (−15.07 vs −19.9.4%, −34.6% vs −39.7%, respectively, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression and ROC analyses indicated that the SLEDAI score was the only predictive factor for the left ventricular remodeling.

Conclusions

These results indicate that early subclinical LV dysfunction occur in jSLE patients even with normal EF and SLE disease activity might be a potential driver for LV deformation.
Portable vibrational spectroscopic methods can discriminate between grass-fed and grain-fed beef
Authors: Coombs Cassius EO , Liddle Robert R , González Luciano A
Published: November 2021

The present study analysed the ability for portable near infrared reflectance (NIR) and Raman spectroscopy sensors to differentiate between grass-fed and grain-fed beef. Scans were made on lean and fat surfaces of 108 beef steak samples labelled as grass-fed ( n = 54) and grain-fed ( n = 54), with partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) used to develop discrimination models which were tested on independent datasets. Furthermore, PLS-DA was used to predict visual marbling score and days on feed (DOF). The NIR spectra accurately discriminated between grass- and grain-fed beef on both fat (91.7%, n = 92) and lean (88.5%, n = 96), as did Raman (fat 95.2%, n = 82; lean 69.6%, n = 68). Fat scanning using NIR spectroscopy moderately predicted DOF (r2val = 0.53), though Raman and NIR spectroscopy lean prediction models for DOF and marbling were less precise (r2val < 0.50). It can be concluded that portable NIR and Raman spectrometers can be used successfully to differentiate grass-fed from grain-fed beef and therefore aid retail and consumer confidence.
Are Feminine or Masculine Supervisors Leading In Same Way And Have Same Effect on Subordinates’ Performance?
Authors: Sharma Sakshi , Nair Manju
Published: November 2021

Catalyst study stated that female leaders suggestively can exhibit better leadership behaviour than male and can have more positive effect on their subordinate’s work psychology and performance. But these proclamations, grounded mostly on inadequate research verdicts and subjective evidence, continue empirically unverified in Asian countries. The experiential study is directed to compare whether female managers differ in their leadership style from male managers in bank. Added to that, study led to recognize and compare the difference in subordinate’s work performance behaviour due to the supervisor’s gender. Through multi-stage sampling method, 364 male and 58 female supervisors were examined based on structured questionnaire proposing two hypothetical consent-attainment status quo. Results exhibited and confirmed the significant difference among supervisor’s gender in their leadership style. Noteworthy variances were revealed in subordinates’ work behaviour because of their manager’s gender. Though the effects varied for diverse dimensions of managerial behaviour and employees conduct. Hypothesis verified that female supervisors are more transformational and transactional in style than male. Furthermore, female leaders were rated more significantly positive on subordinates’ task and contextual performance than male. Research entitled that Indian female supervisor with transformational and transactional style could be more influential to induce subordinates work behaviour and performance in banks. It is imperious to analyse leader’s behaviour in context to their gender, as female leaders play a substantial role in organization growth and performance.
Assessing the Feasibility of an Online Module for Promoting Cancer Prevention Measures
Authors: Shah Sumit K. , Demmings Brittany E. , Bimali Milan , Hadden Kristie , Nakagawa Mayumi
Published: November 2021

Objectives

The aims of this pilot study were (1) to develop a cancer prevention module consisting of an animated video and a short questionnaire, (2) to assess new knowledge gained by the participants, and (3) to solicit feedback for improving the cancer prevention module.

Methods

Volunteers who previously agreed to be contacted regarding research studies were approached via email. After completing the cancer prevention module, a list of cancer prevention recommendations was provided. Newly gained knowledge was assessed, and feedback was solicited.

Results

Overall, 290 of 3165 individuals contacted completed the online module (9.2%), and 38.6% of the participants indicated that they learned something new about cancer prevention measures. A similar proportion, 41.4%, mentioned that they learned about measures that were recommended and due. Paradoxically, response rate was the lowest in the ≥50 year old age group although this group reported the highest rate of learning about new cancer prevention measures. Feedback was favorable in that 70.7% mentioned that the recommendations were helpful to them personally, 69.3% felt motivated to take action to reduce their risk of cancers, and 67% would recommend the online module to their friends and family.

Conclusion

We developed an online cancer prevention module which seems to be suitable for promoting cancer prevention measures as feedback was favorable, and new knowledge was gained. Future efforts will focus on using the module to promote cancer prevention measures to the general public particularly for the ≥50 year age group.
Decreasing Length of Stay in Opioid Withdrawal
Authors: George Ansa , Baxter Marian
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

In 2017, more than 1,200 opioid-related deaths were reported in Virginia, with slightly fewer in 2018, at 1,193 deaths. The current opioid crisis has placed a strain on an already limited number of mental health (MH) inpatient beds. The industry standard for assessment and treatment of opioid withdrawal symptoms, in the inpatient setting, is the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS), and yet some units continue to utilize the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol–Revised (CIWA-Ar) for this population.

Aim:

The purpose of this nurse-led performance improvement project was to implement COWS in the inpatient MH setting and improve length of stay (LOS) by 1 day.

Method:

In 2018, in a large federal teaching facility in the mid-Atlantic region, the COWS was implemented to replace the CIWA-Ar for opioid withdrawal, with the focus on decreasing LOS. Prior to implementation of COWS, LOS on the inpatient MH unit for opioid withdrawal was 8.6 days, which was higher than the ~6- to 7-day LOS for surrounding private sector hospitals. Individual electronic medical records were reviewed for LOS and completion of COWS and pertinent details were discussed daily with nursing staff and monthly with the interdisciplinary team. Baseline data were collected from April 2017 to March 2018, with data collection continuing through the project implementation, April to September 2018.

Results:

Completion of COWS on 100% of patients admitted with opioid withdrawal and a decrease in LOS from 8.6 to 4.7 days was found, a 45% reduction.

Conclusion:

The nurse-driven performance improvement project affected business acumen, through decreased LOS, as well as quality of care, through better symptom management.
Studying Motivation in ADHD: The Role of Internal Motives and the Relevance of Self Determination Theory
Authors: Morsink Sarah , Van der Oord Saskia , Antrop Inge , Danckaerts Marina , Scheres Anouk
Published: November 2021

Objective:

Motivation is what moves us to act, what engages us in goal-directed behavior. The Self Determination Theory (SDT) is a motivational framework conceptualizing motivation—or internal motives—as a continuum of motivation qualities fueled by satisfaction of the three basic psychological needs Autonomy, Relatedness, and Competence. ADHD has been associated with motivational alterations that contribute to academic difficulties. However, ADHD theories and research are mainly focused on the effects of reinforcement on behavior, with little attention for the broader definition of motivation, that is, internal motives. Therefore, the main objective here was to introduce the SDT as theoretical framework within which we can develop relevant research questions about motivation in the field of ADHD.

Method:

To this end, we (i) present the SDT as a comprehensive motivational framework, and (ii) describe current motivation-related ADHD theories and research.

Results:

Based on this, we suggest how SDT can be used as a guiding framework in generating relevant research questions that can help broaden our understanding of the role motivation plays in individuals with ADHD.

Conclusion:

We conclude that ADHD research on motivation would benefit from (i) including internal motives as potential key mediators in the relation between environmental factors and behavior/symptoms; (ii) studying potential negative effects of external reinforcers intrinsic motivation, affect, and well-being. Finally, we conclude that this framework carries value for further development of clinical interventions for those with ADHD.
Redefining response in wet AMD to anti VEGF therapy based on non-OCTA versus OCTA evaluation
Authors: Khatri Anadi , Pandey Araniko , Joshi Kriti , Singh Kinsuk , Prasai Gunjan , Pradhan Eli , Agrawal Rupesh
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Anti vascular endothelial growth factor (anti VEGF) has been the mainstay of treatment in wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Subsequent decision to continue anti VEGF therapy depends on the treatment response quantified by functional (visual acuity) and morphological (optical coherence tomography) parameters then categorized from good to poor.

Methods

This study evaluates the agreement between OCT angiography (OCTA) and non-OCTA (logMAR VA plus OCT) to decide anti-VEGF treatment's continuity. After an anti VEGF treatment, on a follow up visit, a patient underwent non-OCTA evaluation (decision A) then OCTA evaluation (decision B) to judge the necessity of future anti VEGF application.

Results

Out of 129 eyes, on 72 eyes (49%), there were agreements on both decision arms, but on 55 eyes (42%) there was disagreement. Particularly, disagreement on 47/55 eyes was important, where OCTA advised “continue anti VEGF” and non-OCTA advised “Stop anti VEGF” therapy. Cohen's Kappa for probability of agreement to continue anti VEGF was fair (0.33) and to stop anti VEGF therapy was none (0.1).

Conclusions

Based on resulting disagreements between the two modalities on deciding the continuity of anti VEGF, we conclude that OCTA must be considered in the conventional decision making algorithm in patients with wet AMD under anti VEGF therapy.
Prevalence and risk factors for primary angle-closure disease spectrum: The Colombian glaucoma study
Authors: Martínez-Blanco Alexander M , Cantor Erika J , Valencia-Peña Claudia
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with the primary angle-closure disease spectrum in participants of the Colombian Glaucoma Study.

Methods

A cross-sectional study in subjects older than 50 years with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus or/and systemic hypertension was conducted in Colombia to estimate glaucoma prevalence. This study included 1749 patients and classified them using gonioscopy into either open-angle or primary angle-closure disease spectrum groups. The patients in the primary angle-closure disease spectrum group were then subdivided into the following categories: primary angle-closure suspect, primary angle-closure, and primary angle-closure glaucoma. A logistic regression model was carried out to identify factors related to the primary angle-closure disease spectrum, including age, sex, height, and refraction.

Results

The prevalence of primary angle-closure disease spectrum was 19.3% (338) (95% CI: 17.5–21.2). The prevalence of primary angle-closure suspect, primary angle-closure, and primary angle-closure glaucoma was 8.0% (140) (95% CI: 6.8–9.4), 10.1% (176) (95% CI: 8.7–11.6), and 1.2% (22) (95% CI: 0.8–1.9), respectively. In the multivariate analysis, advanced age (+80 years), female sex, and high hyperopia ( p = 0.000, 0.021, and 0.001, respectively) were identified as independent factors related to the primary angle-closure disease spectrum.

Conclusion

A high prevalence of primary angle-closure disease spectrum was found in Colombian patients with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus or/and systemic hypertension, especially primary angle-closure and primary angle-closure glaucoma. Age, female sex, and high hyperopia were identified as risk factors for the primary angle-closure disease spectrum.
Prognostic Value Estimation of BRIP1 in Breast Cancer by Exploiting Transcriptomics Data Through Bioinformatics Approaches
Authors: Khan Umama , Khan Md. Salauddin
Published: November 2021

BRIP1 (Breast Cancer 1 Interacting Helicase 1) is a tumor suppressor gene that has vital function in preserving the genetic stability by repairing DNA damage though have significant associations with the onset of breast cancer (BC) if mutated or overexpressed. In this study, the prognostic value of BRIP1 gene was evaluated and validated through bioinformatics approaches utilizing transcriptomic (mRNA expression) data from several BC databases. To determine the prognostic value, the expression level of mRNA transcript was analyzed in context of comparison between breast tumor and normal tissues regarding clinical features, breast tumor subtypes, promoter methylation status, correlation level, mutation frequency, and survival of BC patients. BRIP1 expression was found to be significantly overexpressed in various BC molecular subtypes (e.g. PAM50, Sorlie’s) and clinical status (estrogen and progesterone receptor) than associated normal tissues which correlated with prognosis. Also, in promoter methylation level, its expression was observed as upregulated-hypomethylated regarding various clinicopathological features. Multiple data mining exhibited positive correlation between BRIP1 and INTS2 (Integrator Complex Subunit 2) expressions in BC. Further, mutation analysis revealed that BRIP1 gene was altered by acquiring both somatic and germline mutations. In addition, a total of 42 mutations; 24 missense, 8 fusion, 7 truncating, and 3 inframe mutations in BC patients was detected in BRIP1 protein. Moreover, higher BRIP1 expression was found to be correlated with poor disease-specific, disease metastasis-free, relapse-free, and overall survivals of BC patients. Since, overexpression of BRIP1 was identified to be associated with different clinical features, breast tumor subtypes, promoter methylation status, and survival of BC patients that may provide a risk of ensuing malignant transformation. Thus, lower expression of BRIP1 might hinder BC prognosis. We consider that this analysis will present a proof for BRIP1 gene to be a noteworthy molecular biomarker for BC prognosis.
Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid for Osteoarthritis of the Knee in the United States: A Systematic Review of Economic Evaluations
Authors: Mordin Margaret , Parrish William , Masaquel Catherine , Bisson Brad , Copley-Merriman Catherine
Published: November 2021

Background:

The economic impact of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IAHA) for the treatment of knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) has been evaluated in the United States, but not systematically summarized.

Objective:

We reviewed the literature to determine the economic impact of IAHA for pain associated with knee OA in the United States.

Methods:

A literature review was performed in PubMed (including MEDLINE and MEDLINE In-Process), Embase, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database and was limited to English language human studies published from January 2000 to October 2020.

Results:

The literature search identified 215 unique abstracts; of these, 47 were selected for full-text review and 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections delayed progression to total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and repeated courses of treatment successfully delayed TKA by more than 5 years. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid was found to reduce the use of pain medications overall and reduce the number of patients receiving opioid prescriptions by 6% ( P < .001). Several studies showed that IAHA is more cost-effective in treating pain associated with knee OA compared with conventional care with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, and corticosteroids, and several authors concluded that IAHA should be the dominant treatment strategy.

Conclusions:

Current studies suggest that IAHA may reduce the use of pain medications, such as NSAIDs and opioids, and impact time to TKA procedures, thus potentially decreasing overall treatment costs of knee OA over time. Furthermore, IAHA was determined to be cost-effective against NSAIDs, corticosteroids, analgesics, and conservative treatment. As the safety and efficacy of IAHA for knee OA have been well established, the findings from our literature review may be used to inform future economic evaluations.
Study on the mechanical effect and wear behaviour of middle trough of a scraper conveyor based on DEM–MBD
Authors: Ma Haozhou , Wang Xuewen , Li Bo , Liu Zhaoyang , Bi Wenjie , Wei Xing
Published: November 2021

Middle trough is the main-force portion of a scraper conveyor during transport, and its performance directly affects the reliability and service life of the scraper conveyor. To investigate the wear of a middle trough, a coupling-wear model of a middle trough was built to analyse the motion state and stress of a scraper, and the wear of the middle trough was analysed according to the wear morphology of the middle plate. The research results demonstrated that the simulation model based on coupling of the discrete element method and multi-body dynamics could effectively simulate the transport conditions of a scraper conveyor. The wear of the middle trough was mainly caused by three-body wear. Formation of three-body wear required that the coal particles between the scraper (chain) and middle plate must be in a certain position and posture, and the coal particles were subjected to the normal force of the scraper (chain) and middle plate. Constant fluctuation in the movement and force of the scraper (chain) resulted in uneven wear of the middle trough and random occurrence of three-body wear. This study provides a theoretical basis for wear prediction of the middle trough of a scraper conveyor and a simulation basis for further research on the wear resistance of a middle trough.
A Review of participant, agency, and community outcomes of non-familial intergenerational programs
Authors: Steward Andrew , Hasche Leslie , Greenfield Jennifer C. , Ingle M. Pilar , De Fries Carson , Fix Rachel , King McLaughlin Jessica , Schilz Matthew , Hennig Michaela , Bonatus Devyn
Published: November 2021

Summary: Social workers are uniquely qualified to administer intergenerational programs, which offer a long-standing and promising way to improve the lives of children, youth, older adults, and communities. Existing reviews of intergenerational programming include a relatively limited time period and do not include agency and community outcomes. This scoping review was conducted with two primary objectives: (1) to synthesize a more comprehensive understanding of intergenerational program outcomes, organized by program type, and (2) to clarify gaps related to agency and community-level outcomes. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, we searched 18 databases for articles published between 1981 − 2019. Quantitative, qualitative, and gray literature were included that focused on formal, non-familial intergenerational programs and incorporated clear research methods. A two-cycle coding process identified six program types, five participant outcome domains, three agency-level outcomes, and four community-level outcomes. Findings: 217 articles met inclusion criteria after a first (title/abstract) and second (full-text) review. Quality appraisal of the articles found the studies to have “fair” quality overall, with a limited number of randomized controlled trials or sustained outcomes greater than six months. Approximately 12% of studies identified agency or community outcomes. Findings indicate strong psycho-social outcomes for older adults and increased inclusivity, capacity, and engagement at agency and community levels. Applications: Future program development and research efforts should address best practices for the implementation and scalability of intergenerational programs to enhance capacity and age-inclusivity at agency and community levels.
Political thought in Central and Eastern Europe: The open society, its friends, and enemies
Authors: Craiutu Aurelian , Kolev Stefan
Published: November 2021

A review essay of key works and trends in the political thought of Central and Eastern Europe, before and after 1989. The topics examined include the nature of the 1989 velvet revolutions in the region, debates on civil society, democratization, the relationship between politics, economics, and culture, nationalism, legal reform, feminism, and “illiberal democracy.” The review essay concludes with an assessment of the most recent trends in the region.
Aeroacoustic noise prediction of a vertical axis wind turbine using large eddy simulation
Authors: Aihara Aya , Bolin Karl , Goude Anders , Bernhoff Hans
Published: November 2021

This study investigates the numerical prediction for the aerodynamic noise of the vertical axis wind turbine using large eddy simulation and the acoustic analogy. Low noise designs are required especially in residential areas, and sound level generated by the wind turbine is therefore important to estimate. In this paper, the incompressible flow field around the 12 kW straight-bladed vertical axis wind turbine with the rotor diameter of 6.5 m is solved, and the sound propagation is calculated based on the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings acoustic analogy. The sound pressure for the turbine operating at high tip speed ratio is predicted, and it is validated by comparing with measurement. The measured spectra of the sound pressure observed at several azimuth angles show the broadband characteristics, and the prediction is able to reproduce the shape of these spectra. While previous works studying small-scaled vertical axis wind turbines found that the thickness noise is the dominant sound source, the loading noise can be considered to be a main contribution to the total sound for this turbine. The simulation also indicates that the received noise level is higher when the blade moves in the downwind than in the upwind side.
Online Performance of Civic Participation: What Bot-like Activity in the Persian Language Twittersphere Reveals About Political Manipulation Mechanisms
Authors: Honari Ali , Alinejad Donya
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we reveal the understudied transnational dimensions of politically manipulative activity on social media. Specifically, we identify and investigate a bot-like Twitter network associated with the controversial organization of Iranian political exiles, the Mojaheddin-e Khalgh (MEK). Tracing and contextualizing the Twitter debate around women’s rights within the 2016 Iranian Parliamentary election, our analysis contributes to the scholarship on diaspora and digital media by drawing attention to the often-neglected potentials for non-state actors such as diaspora groups to make use of social media to promote political propaganda that advances militarist violence. We demonstrate how the MEK network’s “online performance of civic participation” is typical of a bot-net of weak influence inside Iran, but that the aims and extent of its influence can only be fully understood by situating it within a historical and transnational analysis of Iranian diasporic media and politics, one that takes complex US-Iran diplomacy dynamics into consideration.
Why Do People Engage in Unlawful Political Protest? Examining the Role of Authoritarianism in Illegal Protest Behavior
Authors: Inguanzo Isabel , Mateos Araceli , Gil de Zúñiga Homero
Published: November 2021

Prior research on individual-level drivers of protest has primarily focused on legal protest. However, less is known about what makes people engage in unlawful protest activities. Building upon previous literature on the collective action dilemma, socialization on violent and high-risk social movements, and political psychology, we expect that illegal protest frequency varies at different levels of authoritarianism. We explore the relationship between authoritarian values and illegal protest by analyzing a two-wave panel survey data gathered in the US. The results of cross-sectional, lagged, and autoregressive ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models show that when controlling for legal protest and other relevant variables in protest behavior, authoritarianism predicts illegal protest following an inverted U-shaped relationship. In other words, average levels of authoritarianism predict more frequent engagement in illegal protest, while this frequency decreases as approaching the poles of the authoritarianism scale.
Examining Field Experiences of Teacher Candidates During COVID-19: Systemic Inequities Unveiled for Underserved English Learners in K-12 Grades
Authors: Hernandez Ana M. , Daoud Annette , Woodcock Anna , Landin Kyle
Published: November 2021

The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 challenged schools and credential programs to adjust pedagogy, but rapid changes impeded equitable practices to K-12 grade English Learners (ELs). The framework stems from critical multicultural education. Data represented 81 credential candidates across three universities. Study confirmed that ELs lacked access to online learning, active engagement with peers/teachers, and differentiated instruction due to rapid changes and uncertainties to their programs.
Examining the Application of Retroductive Theorizing in Realist-Informed Studies
Authors: Mukumbang Ferdinand C , Kabongo Eveline M , Eastwood John G
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Transcendental realism, the philosophical perspective dealing with the existence of causal powers governed by universal laws of nature, provides a useful framework for research conducted in the social sciences, including the field of health policy and systems research. Transcendental realism has been criticized, however, for offering weak methodological guidance for conducting research. Consequently, realist-informed studies are deemed to be less robust and less transparent, particularly regarding data analysis and synthesis towards evidence generation. In particular, the extent to which retroductive theorizing, the central evidence generating activity in realist-informed research is applied remains unclear, mysterious, and esoteric. We aimed to examine the extent to which retroductive theorizing is applied and described in realist-informed studies. Methods: We conducted a summative content analysis of 311 manuscripts included in this study. The analysis involved the counting and comparisons of the four forms of inference-making methods namely deduction, induction, abduction, and retroduction. This was followed by interpretation of the underlying context in which they were used, for example, the identification and linking of relevant constructs towards the formulation of mechanism-based theories. Findings: We found that the explicit application and description of retroductive theorizing in realist-informed studies remain minimal and inadequate. Abductive reasoning was reported in only 09/311 (2.9%) of the studies while retroduction was reported in [21/311 (6.8%)]. Abduction and retroduction, although central to realist-informed research, are seldom explicitly applied and described in such studies whereas deduction and induction, while they are meant to support retroductive theorizing, continue to dominate the process of theory formulation. Conclusion: While retroductive theorizing is less formulaic, this study highlights further methodological inadequacies within realist-informed studies. We acknowledge that it is difficult to describe inferential logic in the abstract, but recommend that realist researchers should makes their retroductive theorizing an explicit activity illustrating their critical steps in concrete applications for improved transparency and trustworthiness.
The role of culture in policy transfer. A pilot study for transferring European models of peer review in vocational schools to China
Authors: Li Junmin
Published: November 2021

To achieve a successful policy transfer from one country to another, knowledge is required about the framework conditions of the country to which the policy is transferred. An important framework condition to consider is cultural context. Therefore, this paper uses a combination of cultural definitions which consider culture as a driver for both the interpretation of its members and for the communicative and interactive behaviour within a community. This contribution presents a cultural concept to inform policy transfer from a European context to China. Chinese philosophical approaches such as Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism, as well as the political history of China, are used to identify individual perspectives within a community that depends, among others. A pilot study for testing the peer review process in vocational education and training will also help build a better understanding of how adjustments, transfer errors and side effects can be culturally explained.
Evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of a mindfulness-based intervention on stress and anxiety of family caregivers managing peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Aloweni Fazila , Doshi Kinjal , Agus Nurliyana , Fook-Chong Stephanie , Wu Sin Yan , Kong Lau Peng , Foo Marjorie , Ayob Elena M , Ostbye Truls
Published: November 2021

Background

Mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) has not been evaluated for its feasibility and effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety among family caregivers of patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Objectives

(1) To evaluate the feasibility to include MBI during PD training for family caregivers. (2) To determine the effect of MBI on the caregivers’ levels of stress (perceived stress scale, PSS), anxiety state-trait anxiety inventory, STAI), QOL (short-form 36) and reactions to caregiving (caregiver reaction assessment, CRA). (3) To determine differences in the health-related QOL (Kidney Disease Quality of Life Instrument-Short Form, KDQOL PCS and SF-36 MCS) of care recipients with caregivers receiving MBI at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months when compared to those with caregivers receiving routine training. (4) To gather the caregiver’s feedback on the MBI.

Methods

This feasibility study recruited family caregivers to receive either mindfulness training (MT) or treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. Both groups received 4.5-days of structured PD training, but only caregivers in the MT group received 4 days of MT sessions, audio-guided mindfulness practice at home and weekly telephone follow-up.

Results

Forty-four family caregivers participated in this study. Including MBI as part of the PD training was feasible. There was a trend towards lower scores for PSS and T-STAI in the MT group compared to the TAU group. The baseline score of both PSS and T-STAI were positively correlated with post-intervention outcome scores.

Conclusions

Mindfulness-based intervention has the potential to improve psychological symptoms among caregivers of patients with PD.
Association of protein consumption and energy intake on sarcopenia in tuberculosis survivors
Authors: Shin Moon-Kyung , Choi Ji Yeon , Kim Song Yee , Kim Eun Young , Lee Sang Hoon , Chung Kyung Soo , Jung Ji Ye , Park Moo Suk , Kim Young Sam , Kang Young Ae
Published: November 2021

Background:

Tuberculosis (TB) causes undernutrition, and it has a long recovery time after treatment. It is accompanied by adverse health outcomes, such as sarcopenia.

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia and its association with protein and total energy intakes among Korean TB survivors.

Methods:

Data of the population-based Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2008–2011) were analyzed, including 9,203 participants aged ⩾ 40 years. We used three definitions for sarcopenia-appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM, kg) divided by body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), weight (kg), or height squared (m2). Daily protein and total energy intakes were estimated with a 24-h recall method. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between dietary protein/total energy intake and sarcopenia among TB survivors.

Results:

The prevalence of sarcopenia was 11.2%, 10.7%, and 24.3% among TB survivors with sarcopenia defined by ASM divided by BMI, weight, and height squared, respectively. The prevalence of sarcopenia among TB survivors was higher than among those without TB. After adjusting for age, weight, sex, education level, employment status, smoking status, and drinking status, sufficient protein and total energy intakes were associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia in TB survivors.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of sarcopenia was higher in TB survivors than in those without TB. We suggest consuming sufficient protein intake along with increasing total energy intake in TB survivors.
Light pollution: A review of the scientific literature
Authors: Rodrigo-Comino Jesús , Seeling Stephan , Seeger Manuel K. , Ries Johannes B.
Published: November 2021

Light pollution is the consequence of elevated lighting emitted by human-made artefacts to the lower atmosphere. Recently, there have been major advances in the assessment and mitigation of light pollution impacts on humans and the natural ecosystems. Severe negative impacts of light pollution have been highlighted while very few mitigation measures have been implemented. People (scientists, policymakers or stakeholders) interested in light pollution may not have a holistic perspective of the problem, and also there is a need for incorporating social and natural dimensions. Therefore, the main goal of this paper is to review the literature on light pollution using ISI Web of Science by paying attention to the (i) type of publication, year and journal; (ii) impacts on specific elements; (iii) location and (iv) methods used. Our results indicated that the elevated number of papers come from a diverse range of disciplines, methods, places and scales. It is clear that light pollution is getting enough attention from the scientific community but decisions on the implementation of mitigation measures are left with the stakeholders, ordinary inhabitants, policymakers and politicians. Nevertheless, light pollution is having impacts on the health of humans and the natural ecosystem as perceived by experts and inhabitants having divergent perspectives. Thus, light pollution is multifaceted but difficult to be faced, mitigated and not holistically understood. This review paper groups the total impacts of light pollution on the Earth presents some contradictory results, summarises mitigation measures, and provides specific future research directions.