bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Textual Analysis of Community College Internationalization Plans in the U.S. and Canada
Authors: Barone Nicole , Unangst Lisa
Published: December 2021

Internationalization in the community college sector serves many purposes that align with the local and national contexts in which an institution is situated. One method of assessing how international efforts have become institutionalized is through the analysis of internationalization plans. Prior research examining internationalization plans and agendas is centered on the four-year sector, and studies on the two-year sector and comparative studies are scarce. This article addresses that gap by analyzing four community college internationalization plans in the U.S. and Canada. We use the textual analysis tool, Voyant, to examine how internationalization is operationalized in these two national contexts. Our findings indicate that there is little emphasis on mobility and language programs, despite the presence of these internationalization strategies in institutional or national policies. The documents also show greater quantification of goals related to internationalization and lesser specificity regarding intercultural activities. Implications and recommendations for future research are offered.
The interplay between global accounting firms and national institutional contexts: The establishment of the Big Four in China from 1978 to 2007
Authors: Wen Wenjun , Sonnerfeldt Amanda
Published: December 2021

This paper provides an analysis of the establishment of global accounting firms (the ‘Big Four’) in China between 1978 and 2007. Drawing on the extant literature on professional service firms, and the work of Faulconbridge and Muzio (2015) , this paper examines how the Big Four entered China following the country's ‘Reform and Opening-up’ and evolved from tentative representative offices to established accounting firms in the Chinese audit market. Based on an extensive analysis of archival materials and interviews, the findings of this paper show that the Big Four's establishment in China has been deeply intertwined with the country's socio-political and economic transition. It reveals important conjunctural moments in history that have provided the Big Four with important windows of opportunity to actively shape local institutional change to their own interests. This paper contributes to the extant accounting literature on the expansion of the Big Four in China by highlighting the interplay between their surrounding institutional context and their capacity for agency.
Emotional Health Work of Women With Female Genital Cutting Prior to Reproductive Health Care Encounters
Authors: Jacobson Danielle , Grace Daniel , Boddy Janice , Einstein Gillian
Published: December 2021

We used institutional ethnography to explore the social relations that shaped the reproductive health care experiences of women with female genital cutting. Interviews with eight women revealed that they engaged in discourse that opposed the practices of cutting female genitals as a human-rights violation. This discourse worked to protect those affected by the practices, but also stigmatized female genital cutting, making participants anticipate experiencing stigmatization during health care. Women’s engagement in this discourse shaped their emotional health work to prepare for such encounters. This work included navigating feelings of worry, shame, and courage to understand what to expect during their own appointment; learning from family/friends’ experiences; and seeking a clinic with the reputation of best care for women with female genital cutting. It is important to strive for more inclusive health care in which women do not have to engage in emotional health work to prepare for their clinical encounters.
Emergency Department Utilisation by Palliative Patients in a Regional Australian Setting
Authors: Crock Ben , Islam Md Rafiqul , Subramaniam Sivakumar
Published: December 2021

Background: Many palliative care patients attend emergency departments (EDs) in acute Hospital. However, very limited studies inform about their presentations and appropriateness. Objectives: This study explored the reasons and appropriateness of palliative care presentations in a regional Australian ED setting. Methods: A retrospective, single-centre observational study was conducted in a regional Australian hospital. All patients between January and December 2018 known to palliative care services presented to ED were included. Appropriateness of presentations was determined based on urgency of tests and treatments received, and practicability of obtaining these in a different setting. Results: A total of 35 patients made 85 presentations to the ED in 2018. The most common individual presenting complaints were shortness of breath (18.9%) followed by pain (14.1%), fever (11.8%), fall (8.2%), reduced oral intake or dehydration (8.2%), and bleeding (8.2%). The patients were brought by an ambulance in 56.5% presentations, and 63.5% presentations were admitted. About 93% presentations were referred by community healthcare professionals or required urgent investigation or management. Conclusions: This study found the majority of presentations were appropriate since their management could not be delivered at other primary care settings. This study adds value to the growing body of evidence and supports future multi-site longitudinal studies.
Relieving from Breathlessness in the Wind: A Meta-Analysis and Subjective Report of Effectiveness of Fan Blowing in Patients with Cardiorespiratory Diseases or Cancer
Authors: Tsai Jing-Jing , Chen Kee-Hsin , Fang Hui-Fen , Huang Tsai-Wei
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Breathlessness is common among terminally ill patients with cardiorespiratory disease or cancer. The experience may induce secondary physiological and behavioral responses that limit patient well-being and independence and cause emotional distress.

Methods

We conducted a meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effectiveness of fan blowing on breathlessness among patients with cardiorespiratory diseases or cancer. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, SCOPUS, and CINAHL databases were searched to retrieve potential articles. The primary outcome was breathlessness severity. The secondary outcomes were SpO2, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Also, we presented the changes of vital signs and subjective feeling of a male patient who used fan blowing for relieving his breathlessness.

Results

Eight RCTs were available for analysis. The pooled results demonstrated no significant difference in breathlessness severity between fan-to-face blowing and control methods (standard mean difference: −0.21, 95% confidence interval: −.59 to .17); however, a significant reduction in breathlessness severity was observed in the short-time intervention compared with long-time intervention. A trend occurred toward significance in the reduction of respiratory rate in fan-to-face blowing compared with control methods (MD: −.64, 95% CI: −1.37 to .09). No differences were observed between groups in oxygen saturation, anxiety, depression, or QoL. The male patient who used fan blowing showed an improved vital signs and a satisfied subjective feeling.

Conclusions

Consistent short-time fan-to-face blowing is effective for relieving breathlessness among conscious terminally ill patients with cardiorespiratory diseases or cancer. The use of this convenient method for relieving breathlessness symptoms in terminally ill patients is recommended.
Factors Affecting the Relationship Between Stress and Anxiety in Critically Ill Patients: A Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Shih Chun-Ying , Pai Hsiang-Chu
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to examine the factors affecting the relationship between stress and anxiety in critically ill patients. A cross-sectional research paradigm was employed to enroll patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit (ICU) of a medical university hospital. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to examine the data. A total of 90 ICU patients were included in this study; 56 were men and 34 were women. The patients’ mean age was 65.3 years. Only the emotional responses dimension of illness was significantly positively correlated with stress. However, the emotional responses dimension of illness representation, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation system (APACHE) score, age, and education level were significantly positively correlated with anxiety. Nevertheless, treatment control was significantly negatively correlated with anxiety. Overall, illness representations (emotional responses and treatment control), APACHE score, age, and education were important predictors of anxiety, with an explanatory power of 37.9%. We recommend that for clinically relevant practice, besides focusing on ICU patients’ illness representation, attention should also be paid to their individual characteristics, such as differences in age and education levels.
Long-Term Follow-up of Unilateral Cleft lip and Palate: Incidence of Speech-Correcting Surgeries and Fistula Formation
Authors: Gustafsson Charlotta , Heliövaara Arja , Leikola Junnu
Published: December 2021

Objective

The ideal surgical protocol and technique for primary closure of unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) are unclear, and the development of velopharyngeal insufficiency and fistulae following primary repair is common. This study aimed to determine the long-term surgical burden of care in terms of secondary surgeries, defined as speech-correcting surgeries (SCSs) and fistula repair, in a UCLP population, and to compare outcomes of various surgical protocols.

Design

Retrospective, single-center review.

Participants

The study comprised 290 nonsyndromic children with complete UCLP. Different surgical protocols entailing both single-stage and 2-stage approaches were compared, and the surgical outcome was analyzed at the time of alveolar bone grafting (ABG) and post ABG.

Results

Altogether 110 children (37.9%) underwent secondary surgery by the time of ABG. Of the total population 25.9% (n  =  75) had undergone SCS and 17.2% (n  =  50) had undergone fistula repair. The respective incidences at follow-up (post ABG) were 30.3% (n  =  88) and 18.9% (n  =  55). Median age at ABG was 9.8 years and at follow-up was 16.3 years. No significant difference emerged in terms of secondary surgeries between the techniques and protocols applied at primary repair. However, some differences occurred regarding the location of fistulae; the single-stage procedure had more anterior fistula repairs, particularly connected to a perialveolar fistula.

Conclusions

Although the outcome differences between the surgical protocols were small, indicating that none of the treatment protocols was clearly superior to another, attention was drawn to the favorable outcomes of the single-stage protocol.
Rethinking the Rule of 10s: Early Cleft Lip Repair Improves Weight Gain
Authors: Kondra Katelyn , Stanton Eloise , Jimenez Christian , Ngo Kalvyn , Wlodarczyk Jordan , Jacob Laya , Munabi Naikhoba C.O. , Chen Kevin , Urata Mark M. , Hammoudeh Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2021

Objective

This study compares patients undergoing early cleft lip repair (ECLR) (<3-months) and traditional lip repair (TLR) (3-6 months) with/without nasoalveolar molding (NAM) to evaluate the effects of surgical timing on weight gain in hopes of guiding future treatment paradigms.

Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, California.

Patient, Participants

A retrospective chart review evaluated patients who underwent ECLR or TLR ± NAM from November 2009 through January 2020.

Interventions

No intervention was performed.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Patient demographics, birth and medical history, perioperative variables, and complications were collected. Infant weights and age-based percentiles were recorded at birth, surgery, 8-weeks, 6-months, 12-months, and 24-months postoperatively. The main outcomes were weight change and weight percentile amongst ECLR and TLR ± NAM groups.

Results

107 patients met inclusion criteria: ECLR, n = 51 (47.6%); TLR + NAM, n = 35 (32.7%); and TLR-NAM, n = 21 (19.6%). ECLR patients had significantly greater changes in weight from surgery to 8-weeks and from surgery to 24-months postoperatively compared with both TLR ± NAM ( P < .05). Age-matched weights in the ECLR group were significantly greater than TLR ± NAM at multiple time points postoperatively ( P < .05).

Conclusions

ECLR significantly increased patient weights 24-months postoperatively when compared to TLR ± NAM. Specifically compared to TLR-NAM, ECLR weights were significantly greater at all time points past 6-months postoperatively. The results of this study demonstrate that ECLR can mitigate feeding difficulties and malnutrition traditionally seen in patients with cleft lip.
A Three-Dimensional-Based Morphometric Analysis of a Standardized Overcorrection Technique for Fronto-Orbital Advancement in Metopic Craniosynostosis
Authors: Pfaff Miles J. , Bruce Madeleine K. , Erpenbeck Sarah , Mittal Aditya , Beiriger Justin W. , Zhu Xiao , Dvoracek Lucas , Goldstein Jesse A.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

The concept of “overcorrection” for trigonocephaly has been reported to achieve both anterior cranial fossa expansion and normalization of craniofacial form. The purpose of this study is to describe in detail a standardized technique to fronto-orbital advancement utilizing the concept of “overcorrection” and objectively evaluate intermediate results.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with isolated metopic synostosis who underwent surgery via the proposed surgical technique and age and sex-matched unaffected controls. Craniofacial morphometric analysis was performed on pre-, immediate post-, and intermediate postoperative (>2 years) three-dimensional (3D)-rendered computed tomographic (CT) scans and photographs. Key CT-based measurements included interzygomaticofrontal suture distance (IZFS), endocranial bifrontal angle (ECA), and temporal expansion. 3D photogrammetry was performed using established measurements and associated Z-scores converted. A Paired t-test and analysis of variance were performed when appropriate.

Results

Forty-one patients were included. A comparison of pre- and immediate postoperative CT scans demonstrated statistically significant increases in all measurements. Subset analysis of 12 patients with intermediate follow-up (age: 39.6 ± 3.6 months) demonstrated significant differences from preoperative values except for IZFS, which decreased from immediate postoperative values and was smaller than age- and sex-matched controls. 3D photogrammetry demonstrated a mean Z-score above the norm for frontal breath. 3D photogrammetry is also positively correlated with CT-based measurements.

Conclusions

This standardized “overcorrection” approach for trigonocephaly can provide the appropriate changes to maintain a normal ECA despite a reduction in bifrontal width over time. 3D photogrammetry positively correlated with CT-based measurements and may provide useful information when following patients clinically. Long-term follow-up assessment to determine the necessary degree of overcorrection at skeletal mature is needed.
The Effectiveness of Indigenous Conflict Management Strategies in Localized Contexts
Authors: Lundy Brandon D. , Collette Tyler L. , Downs J. Taylor
Published: December 2021

The professionalization of addressing conflict creates a field filled with specialists highly trained to apply modularized and manualized, often evidence-based solutions. But how effective are these professionalized conflict management strategies in Indigenous and localized cultural contexts compared to homegrown Indigenous approaches? While instances of these Indigenous peacebuilding and conflict management strategies are routine throughout the world, to date, no one has attempted to test which conflict management approaches are most effective empirically, nor has the literature sufficiently addressed the contexts in which strategies are most helpful. Using multi-dimensional scaling and chi-square tests of independence applied to a similarity matrix of co-occurrences from select Outline of Cultural Materials subjects from the Human Relations Area Files cultural database, this study tests the hypothesis: Indigenous conflict management strategies are more effective (i.e., less associated conflict) than non-Indigenous conflict management strategies in Indigenous contexts. We show that Indigenous conflict management approaches co-occur with conflict less often than non-Indigenous strategies. From an applied perspective, when we break conflict into four discreet types—sociocultural/interpersonal, political, legal/judicial, and economic—Indigenous conflict management strategies co-occur most often with socio-cultural types of conflicts. The results suggest that Indigenous approaches are more effective in Indigenous contexts overall, while they are most often applied to socio-cultural and interpersonal conflicts. Based on our findings, homegrown solutions effectively manage, resolve, and transform localized conflicts.
Factor Structure and Criterion-Related Validity of the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test Form T for Pilot Applicants
Authors: ALMamari Khalid
Published: December 2021

The Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT) is the primary selection tool for officer applicants in the U.S. Air Force (USAF) for nearly seven decades. The AFOQT is revised and modified periodically, with rigorous equating and linking effort to ensure comparability and connectivity across forms. The most recent version of AFOQT is Form T that includes 10 cognitive ability and knowledge subtests. Despite the continuing validation effort of the AFOQT across forms, it was mostly directed to the general population of officer applicants, but not to any specific subpopulation. The current investigation reported three studies in an attempt to provide evidence for factor structure and criterion-related validity of AFOQT Form T for pilot applicants via four analytical approaches: meta-analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results suggested that AFOQT Form T data are best represented by a bifactor model with a general ability and four specific abilities, and that each latent construct has a distinct predictive utility for pilot performance criteria.
Seismic control of damaged structure by pole assignment and intermittent wavelet-based identification
Authors: Golestaneh Zadeh Sahar , Amin Afshar Majid
Published: December 2021

Calculation of the control forces by control algorithms, such as the pole assignment, proportional-integral-derivative, and linear quadratic regulator, is usually based on initial dynamic characteristics of the intact and undamaged structure, which is considered to be in the ideal conditions. However, because of the effect of natural loads and damage due to aging, these features can change during the structure’s life span, eventually leading to incorrect control forces. In this research, to overcome this problem and to get closer to the actual dynamic characteristics and on the other hand, in order to elude the adverse effects of real-time identification, such as elapsed time of detection, induced to the controller, the intermitted wavelet-based identification technique besides the pole assignment control is introduced. Performance of the proposed controller on three- and five-story with different cases of stiffness and two failure scenarios, under far and near-field earthquakes, are examined and compared by non-updated wavelet-based pole assignment, proportional-integral-derivative and linear quadratic regulator controllers. Results show that damaged structure response controlled by the suggested adapted pole assignment method is significantly reduced compared to ones controlled by other control methods.
Adaptive finite-time disturbance observer-based recursive fractional-order sliding mode control of redundantly actuated cable driving parallel robots under disturbances and input saturation
Authors: Chen Zhengsheng , Wang Xuesong , Cheng Yuhu
Published: December 2021

This paper proposed a novel finite-time disturbance observer-based recursive fractional-order sliding mode control (FTRFOSMC) algorithm under disturbances and input saturation for redundantly actuated cable driving parallel robots (RCDPRs). A recursive fractional-order sliding mode surface composed of the fractional-order non-singular fast terminal sliding mode function and an integral term is constructed, and the fast response convergence and high precision tracking performance can be obtained for the recursive characteristics of the proposed sliding mode surface; meanwhile, an auxiliary system is designed to overcome the adverse effects of the input saturation. Then, to compensate the model uncertainty and external disturbances, an adaptive finite-time disturbance observer is developed, and the estimation error can be stabilized in finite-time for unknown bound of the disturbance and its derivative. The stability of the proposed controller was investigated by the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, numerical simulations with the software of the MATLAB/Simuink are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Optimal fractional-order PID control design for time-delayed multi-input multi-output seismic-excited structural system
Authors: Zamani Abbas-Ali , Etedali Sadegh
Published: December 2021

The application of the fractional-order PID (FOPID) controller is recently becoming a topic of research interest for vibration control of structures. Some researchers have successfully implemented the FOPID controller in a single-input single-output (SISO) control structural system subjected to earthquake excitations. However, there is a lack of research that focuses on its application in multi-input multi-output (MIMO) control systems to implement it in seismic-excited structures. In this case, the cross-coupling of the process channels in the MIMO control structural system may result in a complex design process of controllers so that each loop is independently designed. From an operational point of view, the time delay and saturation limit of the actuators are other challenges that significantly affect the performance and robustness of the controller so that ignoring them in the design process may lead to unrealistic results. According to the challenges, the present study proposed an optimal fractional-order PID control design approach for structural control systems subjected to earthquake excitation. Gases Brownian motion optimization (GBMO) algorithm is utilized for optimal tuning of the controller parameters. Considering six real earthquakes and seven performance indices, the performance of the proposed controller, implemented on a ten-story building equipped with an active tendon system (ATS), is compared with those provided by the classical PID controller. Simulation results indicate that the proposed FOPID controller is more efficient than the PID in both terms of seismic performance and robustness against time-delay effects. The proposed FOPID controller can maintain suitable seismic performance in small time delays, while a significant performance loss is observed for the PID controller.
Understanding the Public’s Animosity Toward News Media: Cynicism and Distrust as Related but Distinct Negative Media Perceptions
Authors: Markov Čedomir , Min Young
Published: December 2021

This study proposes that media distrust and cynicism are two related but distinct perceptions that indicate qualitatively different ways in which audiences relate to news media. To substantiate this, we developed a new instrument to measure media cynicism. Factor analyses showed that the indicators of media distrust and cynicism are not influenced by the same underlying dimension. Structural equation modeling indicated that while distrust appears to be predominately caused by perceived media responsiveness, media cynicism may be susceptible to a wider range of factors.
Assessing the Efficacy of a Cultural and Artistic Intervention for Indigenous Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Giesbrecht Crystal J. , Jamshidi Laleh , LaVallie Carrie , Sasakamoose JoLee , Nicholas Carleton R.
Published: December 2021

nato’ we ho win is a trauma-and-violence-informed artistic and cultural intervention for Indigenous women who have experienced intimate partner violence. The results of this study provide evidence that engagement in nato’ we ho win had a positive impact on participants’ well-being. Participants completed self-report questionnaires at intake, post-intervention, and at one-year follow-up. Multilevel modeling analyses assessed for within-participant changes over time. There was a statistically significant increase in participants’ self-reported sense of resilience ( p < 0.001), personal agency, connectedness, and post-traumatic growth ( ps < 0.05). There were statistically significant decreases in participants’ self-reported anxiety and depression ( p s < 0.01) from intake to one-year follow-up.
Quantifying ADHD Symptoms in Open-Ended Everyday Life Contexts With a New Virtual Reality Task
Authors: Seesjärvi Erik , Puhakka Jasmin , Aronen Eeva T. , Lipsanen Jari , Mannerkoski Minna , Hering Alexandra , Zuber Sascha , Kliegel Matthias , Laine Matti , Salmi Juha
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To quantify goal-directed behavior and ADHD symptoms in naturalistic conditions, we developed a virtual reality task, EPELI (Executive Performance in Everyday LIving), and tested its predictive, discriminant and concurrent validity.

Method:

We collected EPELI data, conventional neuropsychological task data, and parent-ratings of executive problems and symptoms in 38 ADHD children and 38 typically developing controls.

Results:

EPELI showed predictive validity as the ADHD group exhibited higher percentage of irrelevant actions reflecting lower attentional-executive efficacy and more controller movements and total game actions, both indicative of hyperactivity-impulsivity. Further, the five combined EPELI measures showed excellent discriminant validity (area under curve 88 %), while the correlations of the EPELI efficacy measure with parent-rated executive problems ( r = .57) and ADHD symptoms ( r = .55) pointed to its concurrent validity.

Conclusion:

We provide a proof-of-concept validation for a new virtual reality tool for ecologically valid assessment of ADHD symptoms.
The Quick and the Careless: The Construct Validity of Page Time as a Measure of Insufficient Effort Responding to Surveys
Authors: Bowling Nathan A. , Huang Jason L. , Brower Cheyna K. , Bragg Caleb B.
Published: December 2021

Several recent studies have examined the prevention, causes, and consequences of insufficient effort responding (IER) to surveys. Scientific progress in this area, however, rests on the availability of construct-valid IER measures. In the current paper we describe the potential merits of the page time index, which is computed by counting the number of questionnaire pages to which a participant has responded more quickly than two seconds per item (see Huang et al., 2012 ). We conducted three studies (total N = 1,056) to examine the page time index's construct validity. Across these studies, we found that page time converged highly with other IER indices, that it was sensitive to an experimental manipulation warning participants to respond carefully, and that it predicted the extent to which participants were unable to recognize item content. We also found that page time's validity was superior to that of total completion time and that the two-seconds-per-item rule yielded a construct-valid page time score for items of various word lengths. Given its apparent validity, we provide practical recommendations for the use of the page time index.
Safe corridors for external skeletal fixator pin placement in feline long bones
Authors: Prackova Ivana , Paral Vaclav , Kyllar Michal
Published: December 2021

Objectives

External skeletal fixation is an established technique in cats for biological fixation of long bone fractures, stabilisation of the joints, and treatment of shearing injuries and angular deformities. As appropriate and accurate pin insertion is imperative for a successful outcome, knowledge of topographic anatomy and areas that are safe (safe corridors) for pin placement is integral to successful surgery. At present, however, safe corridors have not been determined fully in feline orthopaedics, with surgeons having to rely on knowledge based on canine orthopaedics. This study was performed to determine safe corridors for pin placement in feline long bones.

Methods

The limbs of six feline cadavers were frozen. Only limbs with no history of orthopaedic conditions were used. Transverse sections through the limbs were examined, and anatomical structures were determined in relation to the bone. These structures were compared with those of the contralateral limbs, which were dissected for topographic assessment. Safe corridors were defined as topographic areas where no vital structures, muscles or joints were present.

Results

Examination of the humerus revealed safe corridors at its proximal craniolateral aspect and on the medial and lateral humeral condyles. Safe corridors of the antebrachium were identified on the lateral aspect of the olecranon, the distal two-thirds of the medial antebrachium and the distal third of the lateral antebrachium. Safe corridors in the femur consisted of a small area lateral to and just below the major trochanter, and on the medial and lateral femoral condyles. Evaluation of the tibia revealed safe corridors on the medial aspect of the entire tibia, the cranial aspect of the proximal tibia on the tibial crest and the area just proximal to the lateral malleolus.

Conclusions and relevance

Safe corridors for pin placement during external skeletal fixation in feline limbs differed from those in canine limbs. Knowledge of canine anatomy may be inapplicable to pin placement in feline limbs undergoing external skeletal fixation.
Monitoring therapy in anterior necrotizing scleritis with inflammation with anterior segment optical coherence tomography
Authors: Vidal Oliver Lourdes , López Montero Ana , Gil Hernández Irene , García Ibor Francisca , Vela Bernal Sara , Duch Samper Antonio Miguel
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Early diagnosis and initiation of immunosuppression can prevent the necessity of surgical intervention in necrotizing scleritis with inflammation and lowers the risk of perforation and loss of vision. However, clinical signs for early diagnosis and methods for monitoring response to immunosuppressive therapy are missing.

Methods

Here, we present a case of necrotizing scleritis with inflammation where avascular plaques precede scleral defects. We use slit lamp imaging and anterior segment optical coherence tomography to evaluate evolution lesions depth and impact on scleral structure.

Results

The patient presented 5 months after detection of avascular plaques with a new scleral ulcer of the left eye. After 3-day-administration of i.v. corticosteroids anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed progressive scleral thickening. The patient was therefore spared surgical intervention and discharged resulting in complete remission under decreasing doses of oral corticosteroids.

Conclusions

Avascular plaques can precede necrotizing scleritis with inflammation by several months and may therefore qualify as early clinical signs. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography enables objective evaluation of scleral structure for making rational decisions about surgical intervention.
Surgical peripheral iridotomy creation during intraocular surgery by intraocular diathermy probe—a novel technique
Authors: Apostolov Valentin , Kim Eric , Alexander Ella , Arnold Sam , Parker Jack
Published: December 2021

A novel technique for the creation of surgical iridotomies using a bipolar diathermic probe is described. In a cohort comprising 19 eyes of 18 patients, a 100% patency rate was achieved, with no intra- or postoperative complications.
Food Creatine and DXA-Derived Body Composition in Boys and Girls Aged 8 to 19 Years
Authors: Korovljev Darinka , Todorovic Nikola , Stajer Valdemar , Ostojic Sergej M
Published: December 2021

Several small-scale trials indicate a positive correlation between dietary creatine intake and fat-free mass in the pediatric population; whether this connection occurs at the population-wide level remains currently unknown. The main purpose of this cross-sectional study was to calculate the amount of creatine consumed through a regular diet among U.S. boys and girls aged 8 to 19 years, and investigate the link between creatine consumption and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-derived body composition indices in this population. Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2018 round, with dietary information and whole-body DXA body composition measures extracted for respondents aged 8 to 19 years (1273 participants, 649 boys and 624 girls). Individual values for total grams of creatine consumed per day for each participant were computed using the average amount of creatine (3.88 g/kg) across all creatine-containing foods. The primary exposure was the mean daily intake of creatine; the primary and secondary outcomes comprised lean mass excluding bone mineral content (BMC), and bone mineral density, BMC, lean mass including BMC, fat mass, and percent body fat, respectively. The average intake of creatine across the sample was 0.65 ± 0.72 g/day (95% CI, from 0.61 to 0.69). Creatine positively correlated with lean mass (excluding BMC) and BMC across the whole sample ( r = .18 and .20, respectively; P < .001); a significant negative correlation was found between creatine intake and percent body fat ( r = −.09; P = .001). The higher intake of creatine was associated with higher lean mass in girls and higher BMC in boys, while taking more creatine corresponded to less body fat for both genders ( P < .05). Our findings indicate a significant correlation between dietary creatine and DXA-derived body composition biomarkers in a nationally representative cohort of U.S. youth. These results justify further research of creatine’s role in modifying body morphology in the pediatric population, taking into account the age and sex specific traits.
Evaluation of the Utility of Amino Acid Citrulline as a Surrogate Metabolomic Biomarker for the Diagnosis of Celiac Disease
Authors: Lomash Avinash , Prasad Anupa , Singh Raghvendra , Kumar Somesh , Gupta Rishi , Dholakia Dhwani , Kumar Praveen , Batra Vineeta V , Puri Amarender S , Kapoor Seema
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Citrulline is regarded as a biomarker for celiac disease (CD). Its utility for assessment and evaluation of additive predictive value for latent, potential CD and first degree relatives (FDRs) needs exploration.

Method:

Consecutive 558 index cases diagnosed as per European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) 2012 guidelines and their 1565 FDRs were evaluated over five and half year period. Serology negative FDRs at initial visit and follow ups were served as controls. HLA typing for DQ2 and DQ8 genotypes, along with plasma and dried blood spot (DBS) filter paper citrulline were evaluated.

Results:

Median plasma citrulline values were 20.1 and 37.33 µMol/l in cases and controls ( P < .001). Cut off values for Marsh grade 3a, 3b, and 3c were 35.0, 32.8, 25.26 µMol/l in CD patients and 36.51, 30.10, 25.26 µMol/l in biopsy proven FDR. Increasing trends of plasma citrulline levels with decreasing tTG-IgA levels were observed on follow up. Low plasma citrulline levels were observed with HLA DQ 2.5 genotype ( P < .05). Agreement between DBS and plasma citrulline was 94.8%.

Conclusion:

Citrulline is a good surrogate biomarker for identification of histopathological grade of damage, extent of mucosal recovery and has negative correlation with tTG-IgA. It identifies the silent and latent phase of CD. DBS citrulline provides adequate information and can be used for monitoring CD patients at remote locations.
Optic Nerve Demyelination in IgG4 Anti–Neurofascin 155 Antibody–Positive Combined Central and Peripheral Demyelination Syndrome
Authors: Verghese Alice , Krishnan Dhayalan , Chia Yuen Kang , Querol Luis , Hiew Fu Liong
Published: December 2021

Optic nerve demyelination is one of the clinical features of combined central and peripheral demyelination (CCPD), an entity with heterogenous immunopathogenesis and clinical characteristics, overlapping between multiple sclerosis (MS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Of interest, earlier studies among patients with CIDP prior to discovery of antibodies against paranodal protein neurofascin 155 (anti–NF 155) also reported optic nerve dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate optic nerve demyelination among anti–NF 155 CIDP patients. We studied 2 patients with anti–NF 155 CIDP using visual-evoked potentials (VEP) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Both patients had distal acquired demyelinating symmetric (DADS) subtype CIDP. Other common features were prominent sensory ataxia, hand tremors, significantly elevated cerebral spinal fluid protein, high titre anti–NF 155 antibodies and poor response to corticosteroid and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). No central nervous system neuroradiological abnormality detected. Both had normal visual acuity and colour vision, but one had subclinical right relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD). VEP of both showed bilateral prolonged P100 latencies. OCT for patient with RAPD demonstrated moderate to severe retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thinning. Identification of optic nerve demyelination among subclinical CIDP with anti–NF 155 antibodies expanded the spectrum of demyelination within the subset of CCPD.
Modelling the tribological response in dry sliding of boron modified as-cast Ti6Al4V on hardened steel
Authors: Roy Choudhury Palash , Eswar Prasad Korimilli , Schueller John K. , Bhattacharyya Abhijit
Published: December 2021

Tribological characteristics of boron modified as-cast Ti6Al4V alloys are not very well known, but these alloys enjoy improved as-cast mechanical properties and favourable manufacturing economy. Experimental results are reported here for the effects of sliding speed and normal load on the wear rate and the coefficient of friction in dry sliding of these alloys on hardened EN 31 steel. Alloys having 0%, 0.30%, and 0.55% boron by weight were tested. A full factorial experiment assessed the effects of boron content, speed, and load on wear and friction. Interactions between speed and load were found to be statistically significant in influencing the wear rate and the coefficient of friction. Regression models are developed to predict the wear rate and coefficient of friction responses. The developed contour plots can assist designers in choosing operating conditions when selecting these alloys even if the wear mechanisms are unknown. Evidence shows that the wear resistance of Ti6Al4V can be improved by boron addition, and wear regimes are sensitive to boron content.
Brighter spotty lesions on spinal MRI help differentiate AQP4 antibody-positive NMOSD from MOGAD
Authors: Hyun Jae-Won , Lee Hye Lim , Park Jaehong , Kim Jiah , Min Ju-Hong , Kim Byoung Joon , Kim Seung Woo , Shin Ha Young , Huh So-Young , Kim Woojun , Seo Ji Won , Kim Ki Hoon , Kim Su-Hyun , Kim Ho Jin
Published: December 2021

In a large acute myelitis cohort, we aimed to determine whether brighter spotty lesions (BSLs)—using the refined terminology—on spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) help distinguish aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) from myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD). An experienced neuro-radiologist and two neurologists independently analyzed 133 spinal MRI scans (65 from MOGAD and 68 from AQP4-NMOSD) acquired within 1 month of attacks. BSLs were observed in 18 of 61 (30%) participants with AQP4-NMOSD, while none of 49 participants with MOGAD showed BSL ( p < 0.001). BSL during the acute phase would be useful to differentiate AQP4-NMOSD from MOGAD.
The interaction of age, second language, types of code-alternation and multilingualism in the Zauzou community
Authors: Li Yu
Published: December 2021

Aims and objectives:

This paper describes the multilingualism patterns practiced in the Zauzou community, a small ethnic group in Southwestern China. Zauzou is in contact with Lisu, Bai, Lama, and Mandarin Chinese. The present study aims to characterize the relationship between the social/linguistic factors including age, second language (L2), types of code-alternation, and the multilingualism patterns in this community.

Design/methodology/approach:

Self-reports and participant observation were used to discover any recurrent multilingualism patterns regulated by social/linguistic factors.

Data and analysis:

Self-reported data on Zauzou speakers’ language repertoire and language use were collected by means of demographic survey. Code-alternation between Zauzou and different L2s were collected from systematic linguistic fieldwork.

Findings/conclusions:

Zauzou is the dominant language in intragroup multilingualism, while intergroup multilingualism is dominated by Zauzou speakers’ L2s. Zauzou speakers exhibit a shift from the local multilingualism toward Mandarin-Zauzou bilingualism. The two patterns can be characterized by speakers’ age, L2, and the type of code-alternation. Zauzou-Mandarin bilingualism is realized as both code-mixing and code-switching, and is pervasive among the younger generation, while multilingualism is realized as code-switching and is dominant among older speakers. This shift is due to the new market economy and the language policy that promotes Mandarin in the whole area.

Originality:

This study presents naturalistic data on multilingualism practices in a small minority group in China, which is overlooked by most linguistic descriptions and sociolinguistic studies of lesser-studied languages in China.

Significance/implications:

This paper discovers three parameters to define two cross-linguistic multilingualism patterns in small indigenous societies: the local multilingualism and the national bilingualism, and the shift toward bilingualism that directly results from language policy and economy.
Languages and ideologies at the Lower Yenisei (Siberia): Reconstructing past multilingualism
Authors: Khanina Olesya
Published: December 2021

Aims and objectives:

This paper reconstructs past multilingualism (1900–1930s) among the nomadic people of the Lower Yenisei in northern Siberia, with particular attention to the language ideologies behind it; it is validated by parallels from small-scale communities worldwide.

Approach:

An ethnographic approach is taken, which interprets sociolinguistic data in view of emic categorizations.

Data and analysis:

The reconstruction is based on: (a) 1926 census data; (b) ethnographic reports from the 1920s to 1960s; (c) narratives from the 1940s; (d) retrospective sociolinguistic interviews; and (e) ethnonyms of local languages. (a), (b) provide a background for the interpretation of the linguistic data from (c)–(e).

Findings:

The connection of local social categories/groups to languages was unstable both synchronically and diachronically. Linguistic repertoires described the authenticity of the speech communities better than the command of individual languages. The linguistic indexing of identity was relational and depended on social networks more than on ancestry/kinship. These ideologies together with constant migrations shaped the sociolinguistic profile of the area and facilitated language shifts.

Originality:

Besides providing a detailed sociolinguistic description for an underresearched part of the world, this paper uses a novel methodology for reconstructing multilingualism of the past.

Implications:

The described mechanisms of language shift within communities that are multilingual in related languages contribute to theories of language diversification and spread at least in the north, but possibly also in a broader perspective. The methodology can be applied to other cases of past multilingualism.
Education and the production of inequalities across the Global South and North
Authors: Sepúlveda Denisse , Mendoza Horvitz Manuela , Joiko Sara , Ortiz Ruiz Francisca
Published: December 2021

Education is an essential aspect of any society in the world. As such, it has been a topic studied by many sociologists since the origins of the discipline. Today it is one of the most common subjects in sociology, in part because it has been recognised as a crucial environment for the (re)production of inequalities. This article explores the role of education in the (re)production of social inequalities and its potential to challenge such inequalities. In addition, the article presents some of the distinctions between research in the Global South and North, both in geographical and metaphorical terms. Since this article is the introduction to the special issue Education and the Production of Inequalities: Dialogues from the Global South and North, a synopsis of the published articles is presented at the end.
Vibration characteristics of the gear shaft-bearing system with compound defects under variable operating conditions
Authors: Dai Peng , Wang Jianping , Yan Shuping , Huang Shengzhou , Wang Fengtao , Liu Jun
Published: December 2021

Due to the variable working conditions, there are compound defects in the gear shaft-bearing system easily, vibration signals are very complex, and the fault diagnosis of the system becomes more difficult. Thus, a 36 degrees of freedom (36-DOFs) dynamic model is established for discussing the vibration characteristics of the gear shaft-bearing system, the gear pair spalling defect is considered, there are localized defects on the inner raceway and outer raceway of the supporting bearing, the work conditions contain variable speed, variable load, speed fluctuation, and load fluctuation. The obtained vibration signal is processed by the short-time Fourier transform for the time–frequency distribution map. When the gear shaft-bearing system with compound defects operates under variable conditions, roller passing outer raceway frequency, roller passing inner raceway frequency, gearing meshing frequency, and the relative harmonic frequencies can also be found. The defect frequencies and frequency amplitude are increasing with the speed while the system makes the accelerated movement. While the load acting on the system increases, the defect frequencies remain unchanged, but the frequency amplitude becomes larger. If there are fluctuations of the speed and load, the apparent defect frequency fluctuation and amplitude fluctuation is generated. The mathematical model and the analysis results are verified by the experiment, which will provide the theoretical basis for the fault diagnosis of the gear shaft-bearing system.
The COVID-19 opportunity for Qure.ai
Authors: Roy Rajeev
Published: December 2021

Qure.ai was a healthcare startup deep learning, a subset of machine learning, in healthcare. One of their products was used to diagnose tuberculosis and other lung ailments. With the spread of COVID-19, they were able to repurpose their product to also detect early onset of COVID-19 in patients. They were in a position where they had to decide whether to focus on COVID-19 or on the opportunities related to other lung ailments.