bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Authentic Leadership and Service Innovative Behavior: Mediating Role of Proactive Personality
Authors: Yamak Ozlem Uzunsaf , Eyupoglu Serife Zihni
Published: January 2021

The present study aims to examine the effect of authentic leadership (AL) on service innovative behavior (SIB) of employees as well as to identify whether proactive personality (PP) mediates this connection at an individual level. The quantitative cross-sectional study design was utilized to gather information from a study sample which consisted of 428 front-line employees (FLE) working at banks located in North Cyprus. Specifically, the study uses confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), correlation, structural equation modeling (SEM), and bootstrapping techniques to test the hypothesized relationships. The results reveal that both AL and PP have a significant positive effect on SIB; AL has a positive impact on PP of FLE, and PP plays a partial mediating role between AL and SIB of FLE. By relating the study findings, authenticity and proactivity in the banking sector in North Cyprus play a critical role in fostering the innovative behaviors of FLE. The study also discusses the practical and managerial implications, as well as the future scope.
A zinc transporter, transmembrane protein 163, is critical for the biogenesis of platelet dense granules
Authors: Yuan Yefeng , Liu Teng , Huang Xiahe , Chen Yuanying , Zhang Weilin , Li Ting , Yang Lin , Chen Quan , Wang Yingchun , Wei Aihua , Li Wei
Published: January 2021

Lysosome-related organelles (LROs) are a category of secretory organelles enriched with ions such as calcium, which are maintained by ion transporters or channels. Homeostasis of these ions is important for LRO biogenesis and secretion. Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) is a recessive disorder with defects in multiple LROs, typically platelet dense granules (DGs) and melanosomes. However, the underlying mechanism of DG deficiency is largely unknown. Using quantitative proteomics, we identified a previously unreported platelet zinc transporter, transmembrane protein 163 (TMEM163), which was significantly reduced in BLOC-1 (Dtnbp1sdy and Pldnpa)–, BLOC-2 (Hps6ru)–, or AP-3 (Ap3b1pe)–deficient mice and HPS patients (HPS2, HPS3, HPS5, HPS6, or HPS9). We observed similar platelet DG defects and higher intracellular zinc accumulation in platelets of mice deficient in either TMEM163 or dysbindin (a BLOC-1 subunit). In addition, we discovered that BLOC-1 was required for the trafficking of TMEM163 to perinuclear DG and late endosome marker–positive compartments (likely DG precursors) in MEG-01 cells. Our results suggest that TMEM163 is critical for DG biogenesis and that BLOC-1 is required for the trafficking of TMEM163 to putative DG precursors. These new findings suggest that loss of TMEM163 function results in disruption of intracellular zinc homeostasis and provide insights into the pathogenesis of HPS or platelet storage pool deficiency.
Population-based HIV prevalence, stigma and HIV risk among trans women in Nepal
Authors: Wilson Erin C. , Dhakal Manisha , Sharma Sanjay , Rai Anuj , Lama Rajesh , Chettri Sirish , Turner Caitlin M. , Xie Hui , Arayasirikul Sean , Lin Jess , Banik Swagata
Published: January 2021

Background

Transgender women (trans women) in Nepal are underserved in the HIV response. Data are needed to determine the HIV prevalence disaggregated from other key populations and to identify the particular risks faced by this community. Trans women are marginalized around the world and research is also needed to determine the impact of stigma on HIV risk to inform trans-specific interventions.

Methods

In 2019, we conducted the first population-based HIV behavioral surveillance study of trans women disaggregated from other key populations using respondent driven sampling (RDS). We estimated the HIV prevalence for trans women, and bivariate and multivariate Poisson binomial regression models were constructed to examine the relationship between HIV risk and stigma.

Results

Trans women participants (N = 200) had a mean age of 33 years old (SD = 10.96). We found a weighted HIV prevalence of 11.3% (95% CI 6·82% - 18·13). We found that depression and anxiety (aPR 0.81; 95% CI 0.67–0.97; p = 0·02) and current engagement in sex work (aPR 1.31; 95% CI 1.01–1.71; p = 0·046) were significantly associated with greater prevalence of condomless receptive anal intercourse. We found that experienced stigma of ever being verbally abused due to gender identity was significantly associated with lower prevalence of depression and anxiety (aPR 0.42; 95% CI 0.20–0.87; p = 0·002). Feeling unaccepted in Nepali society and believing people thought they were a criminal because of their trans identity was significantly associated greater prevalence of current sex work (aPR 1.36; 95% CI 1.03–1.78; p = 0·03; aPR 1.45; 95% CI 1.03–2.07; p = 0.04). Every measure of experienced stigma assessed was significantly associated with greater prevalence of current engagement in sex work.

Conclusions

Trans women are highly stigmatized in Nepal, leading to individual and systems factors that impact their risk for HIV. Interventions are needed that support the economic and mental wellbeing of trans women to prevent their heighted risk of HIV from stigma.
Acute recurrent rhabdomyolysis in a Chinese boy associated with a novel compound heterozygous LPIN1 variant: a case report
Authors: Tong Ke , Yu Geng-Sheng
Published: January 2021

Background

LPIN1-related acute recurrent rhabdomyolysis (RM), first reported in 2008, is an autosomal recessive inherited metabolic disease. In recent years, LPIN1 gene variants have been identified as one of the main causes of severe RM in children in Western countries. The disease is extremely rare in China, and we report a case of acute recurrent RM caused by a novel compound heterozygous LPIN1 variant.

Case presentation

A 15-year-old Chinese boy presented with myalgia after strenuous exercise, accompanied by transient increases in serum creatine kinase and myoglobin and persistent hyperuricaemia and hyperbilirubinaemia. Genetic analysis using high-throughput genomic sequencing and Sanger sequencing revealed that there was a compound heterozygous variant in the LPIN1 gene of the proband: the paternal c.2047A > G(p.I683V) was an unreported missense variant, and the maternal c.2107_2108 insAGG(p.Q703delin sQE) was an unreported in-frame variant.

Conclusions

In children with RM, LPIN1 variants should always be considered in the differential diagnosis. The clinical features of our case are atypical, which highlights the importance of an accurate diagnosis by genetic testing. If detected early, the condition may be controlled, and the prognosis may be improved.
Which growth standards should be used to identify large- and small-for-gestational age infants of mothers with type 1 diabetes? A pre-specified analysis of the CONCEPTT trial
Authors:   On behalf of the CONCEPTT collaborative group, Meek Claire L. , Corcoy Rosa , Asztalos Elizabeth , Kusinski Laura C. , López Esther , Feig Denice S. , Murphy Helen R.
Published: January 2021

Background

Offspring of women with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk of fetal growth patterns which are associated with perinatal morbidity. Our aim was to compare rates of large- and small-for-gestational age (LGA; SGA) defined according to different criteria, using data from the Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Type 1 Diabetes Pregnancy Trial (CONCEPTT).

Methods

This was a pre-specified analysis of CONCEPTT involving 225 pregnant women and liveborn infants from 31 international centres (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01788527; registered 11/2/2013). Infants were weighed immediately at birth and GROW, INTERGROWTH and WHO centiles were calculated. Relative risk ratios, sensitivity and specificity were used to assess the different growth standards with respect to perinatal outcomes, including neonatal hypoglycaemia, hyperbilirubinaemia, respiratory distress, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and a composite neonatal outcome.

Results

Accelerated fetal growth was common, with mean birthweight percentiles of 82.1, 85.7 and 63.9 and LGA rates of 62, 67 and 30% using GROW, INTERGROWTH and WHO standards respectively. Corresponding rates of SGA were 2.2, 1.3 and 8.9% respectively. LGA defined according to GROW centiles showed stronger associations with preterm delivery, neonatal hypoglycaemia, hyperbilirubinaemia and NICU admission. Infants born > 97.7th centile were at highest risk of complications. SGA defined according to INTERGROWTH centiles showed slightly stronger associations with perinatal outcomes.

Conclusions

GROW and INTERGROWTH standards performed similarly and identified similar numbers of neonates with LGA and SGA. GROW-defined LGA and INTERGROWTH-defined SGA had slightly stronger associations with neonatal complications. WHO standards underestimated size in preterm infants and are less applicable for use in type 1 diabetes.

Trial registration

This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov. number NCT01788527. Trial registered 11/2/2013.
Social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic: quantifying the practice in Michigan – a “hotspot state” early in the pandemic – using a volunteer-based online survey
Authors: Cassidy-Bushrow Andrea E. , Baseer Mohammed , Kippen Karen , Levin Albert M. , Li Jia , Loveless Ian , Poisson Laila M. , Schultz Lonni , Wegienka Ganesa , Zhou Yueren , Johnson Christine Cole
Published: January 2021

Background

Public Health policies related to social distancing efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic helped slow the infection rate. However, individual-level factors associated with social distancing are largely unknown. We sought to examine social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan, an infection “hotspot” state in the United States early in the pandemic.

Methods

Two surveys were distributed to Michigan residents via email lists and social media following COVID-19 related state mandates in March; 45,691 adults responded to the first survey and 8512 to the second. Staying home ≥ 3 out of 5 previous days defined having more social distancing. Logistic regression models were used to examine potential factors associated with more social distancing.

Results

Most respondents were women (86% in Survey 1, 87% in Survey 2). In Survey 1, 63% reported more social distancing, increasing to 78% in Survey 2. Female sex and having someone (or self) sick in the home were consistently associated with higher social distancing, while increasing age was positively associated in Survey 1 but negatively associated in Survey 2. Most respondents felt social distancing policies were important (88% in Survey 1; 91% in Survey 2).

Conclusions

Michiganders responding to the surveys were both practicing and supportive of social distancing. State-level executive orders positively impacted behaviors early in the COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan. Additional supports are needed to help vulnerable populations practice social distancing, including older individuals.
Hindlimb torsional alignment changes in growing rabbits after patellar dislocation
Authors: Niu Jinghui , Qi Qi , Piao Kang , Hao Kuo , Sharif Iftekhar , Wang Fei
Published: January 2021

Background

Torsional malalignment has been considered as a risk factor for patellar dislocation. But the influence of patellar dislocation for torsional alignment development remains unknown. The present study aims to investigate whether the torsional alteration of the hindlimb occurs after patellar dislocation in growing rabbits.

Methods

In the present study, 30 one-month-old rabbits were included. The experimental group consisted of 30 left knees of rabbits which underwent patellar lateral dislocation. The control group consisted of 30 right knees of the rabbits which no surgical procedure was performed. The Computed Tomography (CT) scan was performed after the surgery and at the point the rabbits were skeletal mature (5 months post-surgery). The angles of femoral version and tibial torsion were measured using a three-dimensional method and analyzed between the experimental group and the control group.

Results

After the surgery, the femoral version and tibial torsion in the experimental and control group were not significantly different. However, 5 months after surgery, the angle of femoral version in the experimental group (-5.50 ± 6.13°) was significantly different from that in the control group (−10.90 ± 4.74°) (P < 0.05). But the angle of tibial torsion in the experimental group (7.17 ± 7.25°) and control group (4.47 ± 6.34°) were not significantly different (P = 0.144).

Conclusions

From this study, patellar dislocation can lead to alteration of femoral version in growing rabbits. So patellar dislocation may affect on lower extremity alignment. These findings may develop pathology and etiology of patellar dislocation.
Minimally invasive debridement and drainage using intraoperative CT-Guide in multilevel spondylodiscitis: a long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Xu Jianbiao , Zhang Leiming , Bu Rongqiang , Liu Yankang , Lewandrowski Kai-Uwe , Zhang Xifeng
Published: January 2021

Background

Spondylodiscitis is an unusual infectious disease, which usually originates as a pathogenic infection of intervertebral discs and then spreads to neighboring vertebral bodies. The objective of this study is to evaluate percutaneous debridement and drainage using intraoperative CT-Guide in multilevel spondylodiscitis.

Methods

From January 2002 to May 2017, 23 patients with multilevel spondylodiscitis were treated with minimally invasive debridement and drainage procedures in our department. The clinical manifestations, evolution, and minimally invasive debridement and drainage treatment of this refractory vertebral infection were investigated.

Results

Of the enrolled patients, the operation time ranged from 30 minutes to 124 minutes every level with an average of 48 minutes. Intraoperative hemorrhage was minimal. The postoperative follow-up period ranged from 12 months to 6.5 years with an average of 3.7 years. There was no reactivation of infection in the treated vertebral segment during follow-up, but two patients with fungal spinal infection continued to progress by affecting adjacent segments prior to final resolution. According to the classification system of Macnab, one patient had a good outcome at the final follow-up, and the rest were excellent.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive percutaneous debridement and irrigation using intraoperative CT-Guide is an effective minimally invasive method for the treatment of multilevel spondylodiscitis.
Optimal treatment for penile verrucous carcinoma: a systematic literature review
Authors: Jo Dong In , Han Song Hyun , Kim Soon Heum , Kim Hye Young , Chung Hong , Kim Hong Sup
Published: January 2021

Background

Verrucous carcinoma, a rare low-grade well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, is known for its favorable biological behavior and lack of metastatic potential. However, aggressive resection is problematic in terms of compromised function and aesthetics. Hence, more conservative treatments are needed. Methods: To identify the up-to-date general biological behavior, diagnosis, and treatment trends, we searched PubMed using the keyword “penile verrucous carcinoma” without restrictions on publication date. Results: Current treatments for penile verrucous carcinoma include wide surgical excision, seldom preventive lymphadenectomy, and conservative chemotherapy without surgery or local excision with safe margins. Despite the advent of partial penectomy to minimally impact function and aesthetics, affected patients experience psychosexual problems. Local excision can be used to save the penile shaft and glans penis without preventive lymphadenectomy or adjuvant therapy and can achieve good clinical prognosis with rare recurrence. Conclusions: To preserve the functional and cosmetic aspects, we recommend local excision, especially for tumors measuring < 3 cm and classified as stage T1 according to the 2016 tumor node metastasis clinical and pathological classification for penile cancer.
A national survey of caregiver’s own experiences and perceptions of U.S. health care system when addressing their health and caring for an older adult
Authors: Slaboda Jill C. , Nelson Sandahl H. , Agha Zia , Norman Gregory J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Caregiving is a demanding role that can negatively impact a person’s health and well-being. As such, adequate access to health care is important for maintaining the family caregiver’s own personal health. The aims of this study were to identify if family caregivers of older adults had more difficulty accessing health care services than non-caregivers and to identify if family caregivers felt access to additional services would be beneficial for maintaining their own personal health care.

Methods

National survey of 3026 US adults aged 30 to 89 years old. Participants were grouped based on self-reported caregiving experience. Survey asked about access to care, importance of health care services and whether caregivers had support needed. Descriptive statistics were used to compare caregiver and non-caregiver’s responses. Multivariate logistic regression model assessed correlates of caregivers not having the support they needed.

Results

Caregivers were older, female, lower educational attainment, lower income, had more multiple chronic health conditions and health condition or disability that impacts their daily life. Caregivers reported difficulty accessing mental health services, dental services, medications, and supportive services at home. Caregivers felt it was important to have care coordinator, long-term relationship with primary care provider and access to house calls, telemedicine, and medications delivered to the home. Age, ethnicity, chronic conditions and confidence in finances were factors influencing whether caregiver had support needed to provide assistance to older care recipient.

Conclusion

Caregivers provide needed support and care to older adults while also needing support for themselves. Health care services delivered in the home were highly desirable to caregivers and could help them maintain their health and well-being.
Metabolic syndrome, fatty liver, and artificial intelligence-based epicardial adipose tissue measures predict long-term risk of cardiac events: a prospective study
Authors: Lin Andrew , Wong Nathan D. , Razipour Aryabod , McElhinney Priscilla A. , Commandeur Frederic , Cadet Sebastien J. , Gransar Heidi , Chen Xi , Cantu Stephanie , Miller Robert J. H. , Nerlekar Nitesh , Wong Dennis T. L. , Slomka Piotr J. , Rozanski Alan , Tamarappoo Balaji K. , Berman Daniel S. , Dey Damini
Published: January 2021

Background

We sought to evaluate the association of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and computed tomography (CT)-derived cardiometabolic biomarkers (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] and epicardial adipose tissue [EAT] measures) with long-term risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in asymptomatic individuals.

Methods

This was a post-hoc analysis of the prospective EISNER (Early-Identification of Subclinical Atherosclerosis by Noninvasive Imaging Research) study of participants who underwent baseline coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring CT and 14-year follow-up for MACE (myocardial infarction, late revascularization, or cardiac death). EAT volume (cm3) and attenuation (Hounsfield units [HU]) were quantified from CT using fully automated deep learning software (< 30 s per case). NAFLD was defined as liver-to-spleen attenuation ratio < 1.0 and/or average liver attenuation < 40 HU.

Results

In the final population of 2068 participants (59% males, 56 ± 9 years), those with MetS (n = 280;13.5%) had a greater prevalence of NAFLD (26.0% vs. 9.9%), higher EAT volume (114.1 cm3 vs. 73.7 cm3), and lower EAT attenuation (−76.9 HU vs. −73.4 HU; all p < 0.001) compared to those without MetS. At 14 ± 3 years, MACE occurred in 223 (10.8%) participants. In multivariable Cox regression, MetS was associated with increased risk of MACE (HR 1.58 [95% CI 1.10–2.27], p = 0.01) independently of CAC score; however, not after adjustment for EAT measures (p = 0.27). In a separate Cox analysis, NAFLD predicted MACE (HR 1.78 [95% CI 1.21–2.61], p = 0.003) independently of MetS, CAC score, and EAT measures. Addition of EAT volume to current risk assessment tools resulted in significant net reclassification improvement for MACE (22% over ASCVD risk score; 17% over ASCVD risk score plus CAC score).

Conclusions

MetS, NAFLD, and artificial intelligence-based EAT measures predict long-term MACE risk in asymptomatic individuals. Imaging biomarkers of cardiometabolic disease have the potential for integration into routine reporting of CAC scoring CT to enhance cardiovascular risk stratification.

Trial registration NCT00927693.
Virtual barriers: unpacking the sustainability implications of online food spaces and the Yellowknife Farmers Market’s response to COVID-19
Authors: Radcliffe Josalyn , Skinner Kelly , Spring Andrew , Picard Lise , Benoit France , Dodd Warren
Published: January 2021

Background

Through their support of local agriculture, relationships, and healthy diets, farmers markets can contribute to a sustainable food system. Markets like the Yellowknife Farmers Market (YKFM) are social spaces that support local food, yet the COVID-19 pandemic has forced changes to their current model. We explore the potential of online marketplaces to contribute to a resilient, sustainable food system through a case study of the YKFM.

Methods

In 2019, a collaborative mixed-method evaluation was initiated by the YKFM and university partners in the Northwest Territories (NWT), Canada. The evaluation included an in-person Rapid Market Assessment dot survey and questionnaire of market patrons from two YKFM dates prior to the pandemic. Due to COVID-19, a vendor survey and interviews were deferred. Data collected from the two patron surveys, alongside researcher observations, available literature, public announcements, and informal email and phone discussions, inform the discussion.

Results

For the patron surveys, 59 dot survey and 31 questionnaire participants were recruited. The top motivators for attendance were eating dinner, atmosphere, and supporting local businesses, and most patrons attended as couples and spent over half of their time talking to others. The YKFM did not move online; instead, they proposed and implemented a “Shop, don’t stop” market. Informal conversations suggested the small scale of the market and technology challenges were perceived barriers to moving online. The physically-distanced market was well-attended and featured in local media.

Conclusions

NWT food strategies rely on farmers markets to nurture a local food system. Data suggest a potential incongruence between an online model and important market characteristics such as the event-like atmosphere. Available literature suggests online markets can support local food by facilitating purchasing and knowledge-sharing, yet they do not replicate the open-air or social experience. The decision not to move online for the YKFM reflects market patron characteristics and current food context in Yellowknife and the NWT. While online adaptation does not fit into the YKFM plan today, online markets may prove useful as a complementary strategy for future emerging stressors to enhance the resiliency of local systems.
Evaluation of right myocardial performance index of in vitro fertilization fetuses and spontaneous pregnancy fetuses: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Shaoqi , Zhuang Zemin , Chen Qingzi , Du Xiya , Li Weiping , Tan Xuerui
Published: January 2021

Background

Whether the in vitro fertilization (IVF) has an effect on the cardiac function of the fetus is very important to evaluate the safety of the technique. The aim of this paper is to establish normal reference range for the fetal right myocardial performance index (RMPI), and compare the reference range between IVF fetuses and spontaneous pregnancy (SP) fetuses by automatic measurement of the RMPI.

Methods

Three hundred seventy-one spontaneous singleton pregnancies (the control group) and 39 singleton pregnancies conceived by IVF (the experimental group) were enrolled into the current study. An automatic measurement system was used to acquire the RMPI. The cardiac function of the two groups was compared by t-test.

Results

There was no significant difference in normal reference range of RMPI between IVF fetuses and SP fetuses (RMPI 0.42 ± 0.05 vs 0.43 ± 0.05). No strong correlation was also noted between RMPI with gestational age and heart rate.

Conclusions

Normal reference ranges of RMPI of IVF fetuses and SP fetuses were established, and no significant difference between IVF fetuses and SP fetuses in RMPI was found. Thus, these findings may suggest that IVF has little impact on cardiac function of the fetus.
My personal mutanome: a computational genomic medicine platform for searching network perturbing alleles linking genotype to phenotype
Authors: Zhou Yadi , Zhao Junfei , Fang Jiansong , Martin William , Li Lang , Nussinov Ruth , Chan Timothy A. , Eng Charis , Cheng Feixiong
Published: January 2021

Massive genome sequencing data have inspired new challenges in personalized treatments and facilitated oncological drug discovery. We present a comprehensive database, My Personal Mutanome (MPM), for accelerating the development of precision cancer medicine protocols. MPM contains 490,245 mutations from over 10,800 tumor exomes across 33 cancer types in The Cancer Genome Atlas mapped to 94,563 structure-resolved/predicted protein-protein interaction interfaces (“edgetic”) and 311,022 functional sites (“nodetic”), including ligand-protein binding sites and 8 types of protein posttranslational modifications. In total, 8884 survival results and 1,271,132 drug responses are obtained for these mapped interactions. MPM is available athttps://mutanome.lerner.ccf.org.
Activation of ChTLR15/ChNF-κB-ChNLRP3/ChIL-1β signaling transduction pathway mediated inflammatory responses to E. tenella infection
Authors: Li Jian , Yang Xuelian , Jia Zhipeng , Ma Chunli , Pan Xinghui , Ma Dexing
Published: January 2021

Avian coccidiosis caused by Eimeria leads to severe economic losses in the global poultry industry. Although chicken Toll-like receptor 15 (ChTLR15) was reported to be involved in Eimeria infection, the detailed mechanism underlying its role in the inflammatory response remains to be discovered. The present study demonstrated that the mRNA expression levels of ChTLR15, ChMyD88, ChNF-κB, ChNLRP3, ChCaspase-1, ChIL-18 and ChIL-1β and the protein levels of ChTLR15 and ChNLRP3 in cecal tissues of Eimeria-infected chickens were significantly elevated at 4, 12, and 24 h compared with those in noninfected control chickens (p < 0.01). Moreover, the mRNA levels of molecules in the ChTLR15/ChNF-κB and ChNLRP3/ChIL-1β pathways and the protein levels of ChTLR15 and ChNLRP3 in chicken embryo fibroblast cells (DF-1) stimulated by E. tenella sporozoites were consistent with those in Eimeria-infected chickens. Furthermore, overexpression of ChTLR15 in DF1 cells augmented activation of the ChTLR15/ChNF-κB and ChNLRP3/ChIL-1β pathways when stimulated with E. tenella sporozoites, while knockdown of ChTLR15 in DF1 cells showed inverse effects. Taken together, the present study provides evidence that E. tenella sporozoites specifically activate ChTLR15 and then trigger activation of the ChNLRP3/ChIL-1β pathway, which partially mediates inflammatory responses to Eimeria infection.
Chronic abdominal aortic dissection, endovascular treatment using a new Stent-graft for in situ Fenestration
Authors: Bertoni Hernan G. , Girela German A. , Barone Hector D. , De Caso Federico , De La Vega Alejandro , Bui Bao T. , Maldonado Thomas
Published: January 2021

Background

Although endovascular treatment of the thoracic aorta (TEVAR) has become an elective procedure for treatment of complicated type B aortic dissection, its role in treating post dissection thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA), is still limited. This is a case of aortic vascular disease, which reports the use of a new endovascular device.

Case presentation

: We present the case of a 62 year old male patient with a history of hypertension, active smoker, who presented penetrating descending thoracic aortic ulcer in the setting of a chronic abdominal aortic dissection. The patient was treated using a new stent graft capable of in situ fenestration that allowed crossing the stent-graft membrane, implanting a covered stent to exclude the re-entry at the level of the left renal artery and redirecting the blood flow through the true lumen.

Conclusions

This case report demonstrates the feasibility of a novel stent-graft concept. Larger studies with longer follow-up are essential to fully evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this new design.
Fabrication of 3D-printed hygromorphs based on different cellulosic fillers
Authors: Langhansl Matthias , Dörrstein Jörg , Hornberger Peter , Zollfrank Cordt
Published: January 2021

The aim of this work is to characterize the moisture-dependent actuation behavior of bioinspired and additively manufactured hygromorphs based by following deductive and inductive design approaches. Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is employed to print bilayered structures consisting of swellable active layers and rigid passive layers. The active layer is composed of a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix filled with different hygroscopic cellulosic materials (native and modified) up to a filler content of 50 m%. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is used for the passive layer. The FFF process allows the generation of desired differential swelling properties in the composites upon moisture absorption. The moisture dependent actuation strain of the printed bilayers was determined by video analyses. Some influencing geometrical factors which contribute to the actuation were deduced from x-ray diffraction (XRD) and micro computed tomography (μCT). The investigation of the mean cellulose microfibril orientation on the surface of the active layer suggested a preferential orientation with respect to printing direction. Furthermore, a gradient of cellulosic material within a single printed layer was observed, which indicates fiber sedimentation. Comparison with the thermomechanical model derived from Timoshenko (1925) shows that the computational prediction of the moisture dependent actuation is considerably accurate for most selected cellulosic materials and filler contents.
Deep inspiration breath hold versus free breathing technique in mediastinal radiotherapy for lymphoma
Authors: Houlihan Orla Anne , Rangaswamy Guhan , Dunne Mary , Rohan Christine , O'Neill Louise , Chalke Shelton , Daly Patricia , Gillham Charles , McArdle Orla
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Radiotherapy plays an important role in the management of lymphoma and many patients with lymphoma are cured with treatment. Risk of secondary malignancy and long-term cardiac and pulmonary toxicity from mediastinal radiotherapy exists. Delivery of radiotherapy using a deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) technique increases lung volume and has the potential to reduce dose to heart and lungs. We undertook a prospective study to assess the dosimetric differences in DIBH and free breathing (FB) plans in patients requiring mediastinal radiotherapy in clinical practice.

Methods:

We performed both FB and DIBH planning scans on 35 consecutive patients with mediastinal lymphoma needing radiotherapy. Contours and plans were generated for both data sets and dosimetric data were compared. All patients were planned using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Data were compared for FB and DIBH plans with each patient acting as their own control using the related-samples Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results:

DIBH significantly reduced lung doses (mean 10.6 vs 11.4Gy, p < 0.0005; V20 16.8 vs 18.3%, p = 0.001) and spinal cord maximum dose (20.6 vs 22.8Gy, p = 0.001). DIBH increased breast V4 (38.5% vs 31.8%, p = 0.006) and mean right breast dose (4.2 vs 3.6Gy, p = 0.010). There was no significant difference in heart doses when the entire study cohort was considered, however, mean heart dose tended to be lower with DIBH for upper mediastinal (UM) tumours (4.3 vs 4.9Gy, p = 0.05).

Conclusion:

Our study describes the potential benefit of DIBH in a population reflective of clinical practice. DIBH can decrease radiation dose to lungs, heart and spinal cord, however, may increase dose to breasts. DIBH is not always superior to FB, and the clinical significance of differences in dose to organs at risk in addition to the time required to treat patients with DIBH must be considered when deciding the most appropriate radiotherapy technique for each patient.

Advances in knowledge:

To our knowledge, this is the largest study comparing DIBH and FB planning for patients with lymphoma receiving mediastinal radiotherapy in clinical practice. It demonstrates the impact of an increasingly common radiotherapy technique on dose to organs at risk and the subsequent potential for long-term radiotherapy side-effects.
Η εννοιολογική αλλαγή στη μάθηση της φυσικής και ο ρόλος της σχετικής με τη φυσική προσωπικής επιστημολογίας
Authors: Σταθοπούλου Χριστίνα
Published: January 2021

The present paper presents a skeletal theoretical model for understanding the role of physics-related personal epistemology in conceptual change in physics learning. It is argued that personal beliefs regarding the nature of knowledge and knowing in physics can function as constraints on the knowledge acquisition process, just like ontologicalpresuppositions and other beliefs of a motivational and affective character can do. Beliefs about knowledge and knowing can have a direct impact on the kind of new information that is picked up from the physical and social-cultural context and the way it is explained. They can also have an indirect impact on picking up and explaining information, by influencing certain mediating cognitive and metacognitive functions, such as study strategies used to accomplish learning goals and self-regulation of knowledge acquisition. Evidence from a number of studies supporting the theoretical model is presented.
Interactive relations among time, music and emotion
Authors: Samartzi Stavroula , Panagiotidi Maria
Published: January 2021

Research so far has shown that the emotional content of information affects time perception, through the mechanism of subjectivisation (i.e. shrinking or expanding temporal duration as a result of positive and negative emotional valence, respectively). Additionally, preliminary studies suggest that musically trained individuals compared to untrained ones tend to make more accurate duration judgements. Finally, it is known that music can induce specific moods; two of the main factors that determine the relationship between music and emotion are the structural features of the song and the features of the listener. However, it is not clear whether any interactive relations exist among these factors. In this study we attempted to address this particular gap in our current knowledge. As neuroscience studies show, when non musicians are listening to music there is activation of right cerebral areas while musicians show left hemispheric dominance. Right cerebral areas arerelated to the recognition and the expression of emotions and their activation suggests a cognitive processing based on the emotional valence of songs. Thus, it seems that musical training affects emotion(by inducing certain moods) that, consecutively, affects time estimation.
Το στίγμα της παχυσαρκίας και οι επιπτώσεις του στη συναισθηματική και κοινωνική ζωή των παιδιών: μια βιβλιογραφική ανασκόπηση
Authors: Ν. Κορνηλάκη Αικατερίνη
Published: January 2021

Obesity does not only raise health concerns, it can also have serious psycho - logical consequences. As the prevalence and severity of childhood obesity is increasing research has focused on its psychosocial consequences on children’s functioning. There is a consensus among the researchers that the main source of these problems lies inthe social stigmatism of obesity. The aim of this literature review is to present the development and the prevalence of obesity stigma and its consequences on children’s social and emotional life. In the first partthe emergence and the developmental course of anti-fat bias are presented, its content and the research methods that have been developed for its study. In the second part the consequences of anti-fat bias on body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, bullying and teasing behaviours and social marginalization are presented. The findings suggest that there is a widespread discrimination against the obese. The need for exploring potentially preventive factors and intervention efforts is discussed.
Χαρακτηριστικά της προσωπικότητας της Ελληνίδας νηπιαγωγού βάσει του Ερωτηματολογίου των 16 Παραγόντων του Cattell
Authors: Ι. Ρούση - Βέργου Χριστίνα , Ζαφειροπούλου Μαρία
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the personality characteristics of Greek female nursery school teachers, as there are no relevent available data. A Greek standardized version of the 16 Personality Factors (16-PF) was used. Participants were 118 nursery teachers. Comparisons with the general population were conducted with onesampleT-test SPSS command. Results showed that our sample differed considerably along all the personality variables. Nursery school teachers appear to be people oriented, anxious, dependent and introvert individuals with low self-control and adjustment skills, and also poor leading abilities. Their personality profile is stress prone. Possible implications are discussed.
Η Αξιολόγηση της Παραγοντικής Δομής και των Ψυχομετρικών Χαρακτηριστικών του Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) στον Ελληνικό Πληθυσμό
Authors: Λιάλιου Δέσποινα , Μεσίρης Γεράσιμος , Ραμαντάνη Αικατερίνη - Αθανασία , Τσαούσης Ιωάννης
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was the adaptation of the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) in the Greek language. Particularly, we were interested in investigating the factor structure of the scale, using a non-clinical sample (N = 184), aged 16-80 years old. In order to investigate the factorial structure of the measure we used confirmatory factor analysis. We tested three different models: the one-factor model (all items loading on one general worry factor), the two-factor model (two independent factors: Worry Engagement and Absence of Worry), and the three-factor model. The results showed that the three-factor model fitted the Greek data better, confirming the results from previous studies which suggested that PSWQ is a uni-dimensional worry instrument, in spite the fact that method effects appear to be associated with positively and negatively keyed items. Finally, the instrument demonstrated excellent internal consistency and mean inter-item correlations, which provide sound evidence regarding the consistency and homogeneity of the items in measuring the construct of worry.
Ψυχοθεραπευτικές παρεμβάσεις σε οικογένειες παιδιών με αναπηρίες, δυσλειτουργίες: Αρχές και φιλοσοφία του οικοσυστημικού ψυχοδυναμικού μοντέλου
Authors: Ε. Κουρκούτας Ηλίας
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this paper is to present the development of family centeredapproaches and intervention models focusing on families with children withvarious forms of disability. In addition, the key principles, the rationale and the techniques of the psychodynamic ecosystemic model targeting families with children with particular difficulties or disabilities, will be presented. The present model aims at helping families and children with disabilities at risk for the development of secondary psychosocial disorders. Finally, intervention difficulties, as well as family problems that professionals working with this model are facing will be discussed.
Η οικογένεια ατόμων με νοητική καθυστέρηση: Το είδος των εκφραζόμενων αναγκών των γονέων
Authors: Παξινός Ιωάννης , Ξανθοπούλου Ειρήνη
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study was to describe the perceived needs of family with children with mental retardation and to analyze the relationship between the type and number of needs to participants’ demographic characteristics. Sixty seven parents participated in the study and answered the questionnaire in the form of structured interviews. Results showed that parents expressed more needs about information, social support and psychosocial services. We found that elder parents reported more needs than younger parents. Parents with younger children reported fewer needs for social support and services compared to those with older children. Τhe findings are discussed in terms of their implications for the improvement of the existing and planning for the development of better family support frameworks.
Σχολικός εκφοβισμός και θυματοποίηση: Ατομικές και οικογενειακές παράμετροι
Authors: Ν. Γεωργίου Στέλιος , Φαίδωνος Φαίδη
Published: January 2021

The present paper aims at describing the factors that contribute in thedevelopment of bullying and victimization at school. Prior research has identified three distinct groups of children participating in the above phenomenon: bullies, passive victims and aggressive victims (or bully-victims). These groups have different profiles in their intraindividual(personal), as well as their family environments. The most important personal characteristics refer to their temperament, the degree of psycho-pathology issues, gender and age. Further, differences havebeen found in terms of attitudes such as attributions, and in terms of being different in a way that sets the individual apart from a mainstream group. Regarding family parameters, factors such as parentalinvolvement and parental style, as well as parental depression have been shown to be related to child bullying and victimization at school. Among the many explanatory models that have been suggested, verypopular are recently the transactional models, proposing that a bi-directional influence exists between parents and children.
Έκφραση του θυμού ως κατάστασης και ως χαρακτηριστικού προσωπικότητας, και οικογενειακές αξίες: Σύγκριση γηγενών, παλιννοστούντων και μεταναστών
Authors: Γ. Μπεζεβέγκης Ηλίας , Ντάλλα Μαρίνα , Γκαρή Αικατερίνη
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PDF
Μία απόπειρα κριτικής μιας μεγαλειώδους θεωρίας
Authors: Χαρίτου - Φατούρου Μίκα
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACT IS AVAILABLE IN THE PDF
Επιπολιτισμός και προσαρμογή μεταναστών εφήβων στο σχολικό πλαίσιο
Authors: Παυλόπουλος Βασίλης , Ντάλλα Μαρίνα , Καλογήρου Σπυριδούλα , Θεοδώρου Ράνια , Μαρκούση Δανάη , Μόττη - Στεφανίδη Φρόσω
Published: January 2021

Abstract is available in the PDF
Artificial intelligence for society and government: the future has already begun in China
Authors: Zhukov D.
Published: January 2021

The paper is dedicated to the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the political sphere. The purpose of this forecasting study is to identify the prospects (for a person, society and the state) that are formed as a result of the integration of AI into the political system as one of the components. Two methods are applied by the author. Firstly, this is a discourse analysis of the positions of researchers and, secondly, the construction of scenarios based on the implicit model that was found in the studied publications. In the short term, leading nation states will be forced to expand their control over AI applications, as well as data aggregators. The reason is that AI and data aggregators can be used to manipulate mass consciousness and behavior from corporations and foreign countries. The author suggested that the formation of a political AI will create a fundamental opportunity for personification of politics regarding each individual citizen. Political AI can be used to support “intelligent” systems that provide social justice along the lines of the Chinese social credit system. The author concludes that the necessary condition for the survival of political systems is their adoption of approaches to the sovereignty of the Internet and the use of political AI.
Assessment of the functional fitness of highly qualified athletes using new methods of express diagnostics
Authors: Boichenko Cyril
Published: January 2021

The study of the functional readiness of highly qualified athletes at various stages of the preparatory period was conducted using the exclusive computer program «Sport-Express». Different levels of efficiency of the training programs used by athletes as well as the high representativeness of a new methodological approach to the rapid assessment of the functional fitness of the body of highly qualified athletes’ are presented.
Habitual constipation in children as a challenge in the physiotherapist’s practice
Authors: Strojek Katarzyna
Published: January 2021

Stool constipation, according to the opinion of GPs, pediatrics and pediatric gastroenterology specialists, is one of the most common ailments among the youngest patients. The incidence of constipation varies and depends on many factors, mainly environmental, sociological and economic ones. It also depends on the gender and age of the child. It is estimated that up to 10% of the developmental age population suffers from chronic constipation. The above-mentioned ailment is most common in children from 2 to 4 years old and is slightly more common in boys than in girls. In 90–95% of cases, constipation develops on an idiopathic functional basis [1-4].

Habitual constipation in children is a very serious clinical problem because it prevents the patient from proper functioning, and thus contributes to a reduction in life quality and lowers self-esteem. In the international literature, issues related to physiotherapeutic treatment of habitual constipation appear quite rarely. Nowadays, there has been a significant increase in the interest in improving the quality of life in the youngest patients.

An attempt to treat functional constipation in children should be made at the level of primary care, including comprehensive treatment and physiotherapy.