bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multimethod approach to assessing motor skills in boys and girls with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Crippa Alessandro , Craig Francesco , Busti Ceccarelli Silvia , Mauri Maddalena , Grazioli Silvia , Scionti Nicoletta , Cremascoli Alice , Ferrante Camilla , Visioli Chiara , Marzocchi Gian Marco , Molteni Massimo , Nobile Maria
Published: March 2021

Motor abnormalities are highly prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder and are strongly predictive of adaptive functioning. Despite the documented sex bias in the prevalence of the disorder, the impact of sex differences on motor abnormalities has been overlooked. The goal of this study was to investigate differences in the motor profile of boys and girls with autism spectrum disorder aged 3–11 years using a multimethod approach. Ninety-eight children with autism spectrum disorder and 98 typically developing children were assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children 2, the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire, and the kinematic analysis of a reach-to-drop task. Results from principal components analysis on reach-to-drop-dependent measures indicated four components, accounting for kinematic parameters of the motor task. Irrespective of sex, children with autism spectrum disorder showed worse scores on Movement Assessment Battery for Children 2 and Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire subscales than typically developing children. Interestingly, a diagnosis-by-sex interaction was found on a kinematic feature measured in the last part of the movement, with girls with autism spectrum disorder presenting altered motor anticipation. Although preliminary, these findings suggested that sex-related nuances in motor functioning of children with autism spectrum disorder could be insufficiently captured by existing motor measures.

Lay abstract

Motor peculiarities are often reported in children with autism spectrum disorder and may predict subsequent adaptive functioning and quality of life. Although the sex bias in the prevalence of the disorder is well documented, little is known about differences in motor profile in males and females with autism spectrum disorder. Our goal was to study differences in motor functioning of boys and girls with autism spectrum disorder aged 3–11 years compared with typically developing children. Their motor performances were evaluated using a multimethod approach, including standardized motor tests, caregiver reports, and a detailed motion capture analysis of a simple reach-to-drop movement. We found that, irrespective of sex, children with autism spectrum disorder had worse scores than typically developing children on standardized tests and on caregiver reports. Interestingly, girls with autism spectrum disorder, but not boys, presented altered motor anticipation in reach-to-drop. Our findings emphasize the need for more sex-specific assessment of motor function in autism spectrum disorder.
Cross-linguistic influence in simultaneous and early sequential acquisition: Null subjects and null objects in Polish-German bilingualism
Authors: Sopata Aldona , Długosz Kamil , Brehmer Bernhard , Gielge Raina
Published: March 2021

Aims and objectives/purpose/research questions:

The topic of cross-linguistic influence regarding the overt or null expression of arguments has been frequently considered regarding bilinguals acquiring language pairs in which the null option is licensed by one and not both of the two languages. The goal of this study is to investigate whether simultaneous and sequential bilinguals differ from monolinguals in the case of the acquisition of Polish and German; that is, languages which both license null subjects and null objects, but in which the nature of the null arguments clearly differs. We focus on the acquisition of null arguments as silent but syntactically active bundles of features.

Design/methodology/approach:

We compare the use of null subjects and null objects by 72 bilingual and 45 monolingual children in experimental setting: acceptability judgement and sentence repetition.

Data and analysis:

The distribution of null arguments in production and judgement data of simultaneous and early sequential bilinguals was compared to the data of monolinguals.

Findings/conclusions:

The study has revealed that early sequential Polish-German bilinguals avoid null subjects in L2 German at an advanced stage of acquisition, even though null subjects are quite frequent in their L1. The slower acquisition of null subjects in early L2 German in comparison to null objects in the case of Polish-German bilinguals demonstrates that the dissimilarity between the null subjects in both languages may lead to the delay effect in the acquisition. The findings suggest that the cross-linguistic influence is due to the increased complexity inherent to the integration of syntactic and pragmatic information in case of null arguments.

Originality:

Unlike previous studies, we focus on the acquisition of null arguments in a language pair, Polish and German, in which the null option is licensed by both grammars, and in which the nature of the null arguments clearly differ.
Sizing up the ‘Dadbod’: Fitness, age and resistance in a male body type
Authors: McIntyre Anthony P , Negra Diane , O’Sullivan Odin
Published: March 2021

This article considers the cultural significance of a body type that has been largely overlooked in contemporary masculinities scholarship: the ‘Dadbod’. Defying popular culture’s typical preference for midlife invisibility, the paunchy physique of the Dadbod (often with ‘love handles’) centres a split discourse in being the object of both celebration and opprobrium. Prevalent in both celebrity and lifestyle discourse (often in contradictory ways), we interpret the Dadbod as key to a certain kind of narrative of male retreatism from the increasingly anxious ethos of bodily regulation and age transcendence. The Dadbod suggests an alternate, possibly more radical, incarnation of the ‘body positivity’ which more commonly serves as a regulation-by-another-name discourse for women.
Effect of encased concrete on section temperature gradient of corrugated steel web box girder
Authors: Zhang Feng , Shen Jia , Liu Jinyi
Published: March 2021

Thirty-two temperature sensors, a solar radiation sensor, wind speed, and direction sensor were installed on the bridge for the field monitoring of structural temperature, solar radiation, and wind. The frequency was set at 60 min for 211 days. Empirical equations were used to predict the maximum vertical and lateral temperature gradients, and the daily maximum and minimum mean temperatures of the corrugated steel web box girder. The results showed that the temperature gradient of the corrugated steel web box girder was closely related to the temperature gradient of air. The vertical maximum temperature gradient occurred at 4 pm. The height of the box girder had a significant effect on the accuracy of the predicted vertical maximum temperature gradient. Compared with the section without encased concrete, the maximum temperature gradient of the encased concrete section was reduced by 10.48%. Encased concrete showed minimal effect on both the vertical and lateral temperature gradient of the top plate part, however, the effect on the vertical temperature gradient of the haunch reduced by 17.19%. The maximum temperature gradient of corrugated steel with a composite encased concrete section was 4.12°C, which was less than that of the section without encased concrete at 5.06°C. The encased concrete had a significant effect on the maximum temperature gradient of corrugated steel web with a 26.99% deviation.
The expressive function of human dignity: A pragmatic approach to social rights claims
Authors: Matteucci Stefano Civitarese , Repetto Giorgio
Published: March 2021

In this article, we appraise an idea of human dignity (HD) as pragmatically oriented to support social rights claims. By analysing the role of dignitarian arguments in the constitutional-like case law of four European jurisdictions (France, the UK, Italy and Germany), we demonstrate that caution prevails about the possibility of using HD in each of these countries as an ultimate yardstick for upholding social policies. Such findings challenge the assumption that one can grasp HD as a legal notion through a foundational approach. In our view, neither HD reflects any natural or social essence of men and women, nor can it consequently be conceived as the source of universal fundamental rights. Instead, (1) we recommend a notion of HD as a status primarily conceived as a political-institutional (conventional) artefact. Thus, (2) we consequently sustain that dignity may pertain to states too, and we can see it as a way of reciprocating the duty to fair cooperation in a just society. In the same vein, (3) HD works best in the social realm when an expressive function, rather than a defining one, is recognised as its proper function. This aspect helps explain why HD is often called to support other principles in judicial argumentation. This notion of HD seems to us coherent with social rights as relying on a complex institutional arrangement centred on political responsibility and a commitment to social justice. Concerning the assessment of the conditions attached by the states to the enjoyment of welfare benefits, HD tells us that disproportionate sanctions, whose objective appears to be more a way of blackmailing welfare recipients than pursuing an ideal of fair reciprocity, do violate both the institutional dignity of public authorities and that of the persons affected.
Young, unauthorised and Black: African unaccompanied minors and becoming an adult in Italy
Authors: Walker Sarah , Gunaratnam Yasmin
Published: March 2021

This article is based on ethnographic fieldwork in an Italian reception centre for male ‘unaccompanied minors’. Drawing on the concepts of ‘hostipitality’ (Derrida), the Black Mediterranean, and ‘intimate citizenship’ (Plummer), we examine the political ambivalence of hospitality for young African men as they transition to adulthood and how this is experienced through the intersections of age, gender and race. The biographical transition to adulthood thus offers a unique empirical opportunity to examine the extent of hospitality, as the (uninvited) Black child guest crosses the threshold into being an unwanted, potentially deportable, ‘invader’. Drawing from the young men’s images (art and photographs) and narratives, we discuss their experiences of differential anti-Blackness during their migration journeys and how hegemonic notions of masculinity circumscribe the quest for legal citizenship and the meaning of adulthood. While capitulation to gender normativity bolsters claims to citizenship, racism is a continuing and profound threat to ontological security.
Descriptions and the materiality of texts
Authors: Mazza Roberta
Published: March 2021

This article builds on the notions of thick and thin description elaborated by Geertz and looks at what descriptive methods have been used in the field of papyrology, a sub-discipline of classics that studies ancient manuscripts on papyrus fragments recovered through legal and illegal excavations in Egypt from the 19th century. Past generations of papyrologists have described papyri merely as resources to retrieve ancient ‘texts’. In the article I argue these descriptions have had negative effects in the way this ancient material has been studied, preserved, and also exchanged through the antiquities market. Through a series of case studies, I offer an alternative description of papyrus fragments as things, which have a power that can be activated under specific circumstances or entanglements. In demonstrating papyrus manuscripts’ unstable nature and shifting meanings, which are contingent on such entanglements, the article calls for a new politics and ethics concerning their preservation and exchange.
Je ne parle pas français—So what? The impact of language on skilled German migrant women’s employment in France
Authors: Jentjens Sabine
Published: March 2021

This paper uncovers language-related issues that skilled female migrants face and what their strategies are to (re-)build their careers after migrating. Using an inductive, interpretative research methodology, the author conducted 19 in-depth interviews with skilled German women who had migrated to France. Contrary to the findings of extant research, the study revealed that host country language proficiency played a minor role in the migration motivation, choice of destination, and labor market integration in this sample. However, the informants’ mother tongue (German) and their proficiency in English were perceived as competitive advantages when it came to integrating into the labor market. For some, these particular language skills even led to a conscious change of career. The findings demonstrate that language proficiency goes beyond grammatical mastery but relates, more importantly, to culture-sensitive communication skills underlining the importance of investigating language associated with the concept of culture. This study contributes to the language-related literature on international migration by combining different strands of research and levels of analysis to obtain a more holistic picture of the complex impact of language and its culture-relatedness.
Recognising Gender: A Response to Gonzalez Ginocchio, Hindmoor and Stanley
Authors: Amery Fran
Published: March 2021

A response to Pluralism and Political Studies in the UK: A Pilot Study into Who Gets What in the Discipline by Brenda Gonzalez Ginocchio, Andrew Hindmoor and Liam Stanley.
What Works to Address Violence Against Children (VAC) in and Around Schools
Authors: Sood Suruchi , Kostizak Kelli , Mertz Nicole , Stevens Sarah , Rodrigues Farren , Hauer Michael
Published: March 2021

Violence against children (VAC) is a pervasive, global issue with both short- and long-term health, social, and economic consequences. This systematic review sought to identify best practices for designing and implementing social and behavior change communication (SBCC) programs targeting VAC in and around schools. Combinations of key search terms within five domains were entered into four databases: PubMed Central, Google Scholar, Sociological Abstracts, and EBSCOhost. Results were screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Namely, articles had to be published in English, be published after March 2014, focus on VAC in and around schools, focus on children, and use SBCC approaches. The searches produced 892,271 results. Of these, 63,183 were screened and 54 articles were selected. These articles were combined with 16 articles, gathered from a previous systematic review using the same databases and search domains conducted by the same research team, for a total of 70 articles. Articles were quantitatively analyzed using a coding guide in STATA and qualitatively analyzed using Nvivo. Results showed that most programs addressed bullying, were implemented in high-income countries, and included children aged 10 and older. Best practices in program design were using theory, conducting formative research, and involving program beneficiaries. Best practices in implementation were combining whole-school and targeted approaches, including special and hidden populations, involving secondary and tertiary audiences, using nonclassroom settings, using peer leader/mentor and cascade training models, and conducting process monitoring. Implications and avenues for future planning and implementation of SBCC interventions to address VAC in and around schools are discussed.
Stand halten. Adliges Handeln und Erleben in Preußen um 1800
Authors: Frie Ewald
Published: March 2021

Zusammenfassung

So far, the history of the nobility has mainly focused on the biographies of the lucky few who were rich and left behind large archives. It may, however, gain new insights by searching for fragmentary evidence of the many lesser nobles that did not leave behind a trail of sources, but whose lives can only be traced through various scattered sources. This material directs our attention towards situations in which the meaning of being a noble was constantly negotiated and re-negotiated. This article concentrates on two such situations: first, on banquets involving nobles and non-nobles that spiralled out of control, and second, on acts of self-ennoblement that sometime worked and sometimes failed. As these examples show, the estate-based society, at least in Prussia, was multi-faceted and malleable before 1800 and continued to be so throughout the 19th century. The material further highlights that more such fragments are needed in order to analyse the changes of the Prussian nobility from the inside and downside.
Mapping time use in clinical trials for vaccines against emerging infectious diseases
Authors: Mandi Henshaw , Yimer Solomon Abebe , Norheim Gunnstein
Published: March 2021

Background:

Vaccines are potent tools to prevent outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases from becoming epidemics and need to be developed at an accelerated pace to have any impact on the course of an ongoing epidemic. The aim of this study was to describe time use in the execution of vaccine trials, to identify steps that could be accelerated to improve preparedness and planning for future emerging infectious diseases vaccine trials.

Methods:

We used a mixed-methods approach to map time use and process steps that could be accelerated during vaccine trials. Trials for vaccines against infectious diseases registered in three global trial databases reported in the period 2011–2017 were eligible to join the survey. We invited sponsors to contribute data through a predefined structured questionnaire for clinical trial process metrics. Data were stratified by trial phase, disease type (i.e. emerging infectious diseases or not emerging infectious diseases), sponsor type, and continent. Qualitative interviews were conducted with purposively selected sponsors, and thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was performed.

Results:

Based on data from 155 vaccine trials including 29,071 subjects, 52% were phase I, 23% phase II, and 25% phase III. We found that the regulatory approval, subject enrollment, study execution, and study close-out accounted for most of the cycle time of the vaccine trial process. Cycle times for the regulatory and ethical approvals, contract agreement, site initiation, and study execution were shorter in trials conducted during outbreaks. Qualitative interviews indicated that early engagement of the regulatory and independent ethical committee authorities in planning the vaccine trials was critical for saving time in trial approval. Furthermore, adapting the trial implementation to the reality of the study sites and active involvement of the local investigators during the planning of the trial and protocol writing were stated to be of paramount importance to successful completion of trials at an accelerated pace.

Conclusion:

The regulatory approval, subject recruitment, study execution, and close-out cycle times accounted for most of the vaccine trial time use and are activities that could be accelerated during a vaccine trial planning and implementation. We encourage tracking of key cycle time metrics and facilitating sharing of knowledge across industry and academia, as this may serve to reduce the time from index case detection to access of a vaccine during emerging infectious diseases epidemics.
Explaining Myanmar’s Policy of Non-Alignment: An Analytic Eclecticism Approach
Authors: Myat Sint Sint
Published: March 2021

This article presents a theoretical explanation for Myanmar’s persistent and consistent choice of non-aligned foreign policy since independence in 1948. It focuses on exploring multiple causal factors in search for a comprehensive explanation, inspired by the analytic eclectic approach, including (1) geopolitical factors, (2) domestic factors, and (3) ideational factors, informed by neorealist, neo-classical realist, and social constructivist insights, respectively. Being a small country surrounded by big powers during the Cold War, struggling with internal conflicts, both ethnic and ideological, and guided by the Buddhist philosophy of the middle way, the newly established government of Myanmar chose non-alignment. Successive governments went between activism and passivism in their foreign policy and maintained the stance of non-alignment. This article argues that non-alignment could be a logical choice for weak powers such as those striving to find their way amid the ever-intensifying strategic rivalry between the USA and China.
Data protection and passenger name record in judicial criminal matters under the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement
Authors: Van de Heyning Catherine
Published: March 2021

The submission discusses the provisions in the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement on data protection as well as the consequences for the exchange of passenger name record data in the field of criminal and judicial cooperation. The author concludes that the impact of the Agreement will depend on the resolvement of the United Kingdom to uphold the standards of protection of personal data equivalent to the EU’s in order to reach an adequacy decision.
General provisions under the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement
Authors: Schomburg Sören
Published: March 2021

In its general provisions, the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) highlights the importance of the protection of Human Rights. The article describes the potential impact of the new rules under the TCA on (international) ne bis in idem and arrest warrants between the UK and EU Member States. It further explains the role of the Specialised Committee on Law Enforcement and Judicial Cooperation which is vested with a significant role.
Dispute settlement and jurisdictional issues for law enforcement and judicial cooperation in criminal matters under the EU–UK trade and cooperation agreement
Authors: Janet Albert
Published: March 2021

The rules on dispute settlement of Part 3 of the Trade and cooperation Agreement provide for a consultation procedure between the Parties, to be held either within the framework of the Specialized Committee on Law Enforcement and Judicial Cooperation or within the framework of the Partnership Council. A decision by either of these bodies is considered a mutually agreed solution. The Parties may also reach a solution without involving these bodies. If no mutually agreed solution is reached, the complaining Party may suspend the Titles to which the breach pertains, and the respondent Party may suspend all of the remaining Titles. The Specialized Committee on Law Enforcement and Judicial Cooperation decides what measures are needed to ensure that any cooperation affected by the suspension of the Titles is concluded in an appropriate manner. The suspended Titles can be reinstated by the Parties if the breach no longer exists.
Brexit: First observations on the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement in criminal law
Authors: Schomburg Wolfgang , Oehmichen Anna
Published: March 2021

The authors share their first impressions of the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement in criminal law. After looking at how the Agreement came about and speculating about alternatives, criticism regarding the Agreement is voiced. This concerns the lack of transparency in the legislative process on a general level. Regarding the individual provisions, further points of criticism as well as such of particular interest are identified with reference to the respective articles in this issue. The first impression that the Agreement was developed quickly, without systematic approach, and thus leaves many loopholes and uncertainties, is confirmed. To conclude, however, some positive achievements are also highlighted.
Cooperation with EU agencies and bodies under the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement: Eurojust, OLAF and the EPPO
Authors: Niblock Rebecca
Published: March 2021

This article will examine the provisions of Part III, Title VI of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) on Eurojust. While the agreement in the TCA with regard to Eurojust allows cooperation to continue, the new arrangements amount to a significant change. The article also looks at cooperation between the UK and other EU agencies, specifically the European Anti-Fraud Office and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, concluding that the practical impact of the UK’s departure from the EU is unlikely to be significant.
Is There an Impact of Social Factors and Food on Early Childhood Caries? A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yardimci Hülya , Aslan Çin Nazlı Nur , Özçelik Ayşe Özfer
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary habits on early childhood caries (ECC) in preschool children. We recruited 153 children between 30 and 71 months of age who applied to a state hospital dental clinic in Ankara, Turkey. The decayed-missing-filled teeth (dmft) index was calculated with a questionnaire that investigated the number of decayed, missing, and/or filled milk teeth. Participants formed three separate groups according to their caries history (Group 1: caries-free children, Group 2: children with ECC, Group 3: children with severe ECC [S-ECC]). The mean dmft score was 4.0 ± 3.9, and 20.2% of children were in caries-free group ( n = 31), 45.8% were in ECC group ( n = 70), and 34.0% were in S-ECC group ( n = 52). The carbonated beverage consumption and the dmft index score was directly proportional ( p < .05). Besides, there was a significant correlation between anti-cariogenic foods such as milk and eggs and dmft index score ( p < .05). S-ECC was associated with higher consumption of French fries (β = .052; 95% Cl −0.141, 1.827) and lower consumption of egg (β = −0.052; 95% Cl −0.103, 0.001). Consequently, the fast-food-style Western diet was closely related to tooth decay, and healthy dietary habits such as the Mediterranean-style diet may provide crucial protection against dental caries in preschool children.
Board Gender Diversity and Dividend Policy in Chinese Listed Firms
Authors: Ain Qurat Ul , Yuan Xianghui , Javaid Hafiz Mustansar , Zhao Jinkai , Xiang Li
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the relationship between gender diversity on the board and dividend payouts in China using a large sample over the period 2003–2017. Our results provide robust and strong evidence showing that gender diversity on the board is positively associated with cash payments of dividends. The empirical outcomes confirm that gender diversity on the board facilitates corporate governance and subsequently promotes dividend payouts. We demonstrate that gender diversity on the board has the greatest effect when the board has critical mass participation (three or more female directors) compared with only their token participation. However, independent female directors increase dividend payouts, while female executive directors do not have a significant impact. Furthermore, we extend the literature on the relationship between dividend payments and government ownership by providing evidence that gender diversity has a higher impact on dividend payouts for state-owned enterprises than non-state-owned enterprises. After controlling the endogeneity problems, our findings are reliable and robust.

JEL classifications: G30, G35
Spine Treatment Appraisal Report (STAR): Does Marijuana Use Affect Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Receiving Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)?
Authors: Dettori Joseph R.
Published: March 2021

Jakoi AM, Kirchner GJ, Kerbel YE, Iorio JA, Khalsa AS. The effects of marijuana use on lumbar spinal fusion. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2020;45(9):629-634.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Hospital: Inpatient’s Perceived Quality in Spain
Authors: Lopez-Picazo Julio J , Vidal-Abarca Inmaculada , Beteta Dolores , López-Ibáñez Mercedes , García-Vázquez Elisa
Published: March 2021

Although the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has generated a large amount of studies, the patient-perceived quality of care (PQ) in this context is still not well known, so more studies intending to focus on this issue are strongly needed. This study assesses changes on PQ in patients hospitalized in Spain during the first month of the COVID-19 pandemic and investigates differences between those admitted for this cause and the rest a descriptive study using the “Net Promoters Score” and the hospital regular monitoring plan. Due to this point of view, ethical approval is not applicable. Four PQ dimensions (nurse, physician, and nurse assistant actions [NA], and discharge information [DI]) were measured in all COVID patients (57) and in a sample of non-COVID patients (60) discharged at home during the first month of the pandemic, and also compared with another sample (384) from an immediately previous period. The COVID patients scored worse (8.2) than non-COVID ones (9.0; P < .0001), especially in NA and DI, and were more likely to be detractors (odds ratio [OR]: 3.05, P < .0001) and less to be promoters (OR: 0.64, P < .05). Global and DI net promoters score values before the pandemic were higher than afterward. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic negatively and significantly influenced the health care quality as perceived by inpatients, both in COVID and in non-COVID ones, but more intensely in the former. As a health care organization, this knowledge meant an opportunity from improvement and to be better qualified to face the pandemic.
Indirect Impacts of COVID-19: A Case Study of Evidence, Advice and Representation From Consumer and Community Members in New South Wales Australia
Authors: Dimopoulos-Bick Tara , Walsh Louisa , Sutherland Kim
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect health care systems globally, and there is widespread concern about the indirect impacts of COVID-19. Indirect impacts are caused by missed or delayed health care—not as a direct consequence of COVID-19 infections. This study gathered experiences of, and perspectives on, the indirect impacts of COVID-19 for health consumers, patients, their families and carers, and the broader community in New South Wales, Australia. A series of semi-structured virtual group discussions were conducted with 33 health consumers and community members between August 24 and August 31, 2020. Data were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. The analysis identified 3 main themes: poor health outcomes for individuals; problems with how health care is designed and delivered; and increasing health inequality. This case study provides insight into the indirect impacts of COVID-19. Health systems can draw on the insights learned as a source of experiential evidence to help identify, monitor and respond to the indirect impacts of COVID-19.
Perceived Satisfaction of Patients and Related Factors for Oral Surgery Student Dental Clinic: Evidence From Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasuriya Nadeena Sri Swarnagupta , Perera Irosha Rukmali , Gunasena Chandira , Ratnapreya Sakuntha , Dayabandara Madhubhashinee , Medawela R M Sumudu Himesha B , Attygalla Manjula , Wijekoon Parakrama , Kapugama Kanchana
Published: March 2021

We assessed perceived satisfaction of patients and related factors for treatment provided by the oral surgery student dental clinic of the only Sri Lankan dental school. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 288 consenting patients who received oral surgery treatment at the student dental clinic of Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. A self-administered, validated questionnaire and a 19-item multidimensional patient satisfaction scale were used for data collection. Patients of all ages were represented, but were dominated by females, aged 30 to 44 years, possessing educational attainment up to General Certificate of Education ordinary or advanced level of which 54.9% were unemployed. They had travelled distances of less than 10 and 10 to 20 km (28.1% and 27.5%, respectively) predominantly to receive tooth extractions exacerbated by symptoms. Overall, 90% of responding patients were highly satisfied with the items of many dimensions of dental treatment. Despite high levels of perceived satisfaction expressed, further improvements were warranted for waiting time, optimal pain control with more kind, and courteous staff.
How Do Patients Receiving Prescribed B12 Injections for the Treatment of PA Perceive Changes in Treatment During the COVID-19 Pandemic? A UK-Based Survey Study
Authors: Seage Catherine Heidi , Semedo Lenira
Published: March 2021

Pernicious anemia (PA) is a chronic condition that is usually treated using B12 injections. Due to the pandemic, many patients were prescribed an alternative oral B12 treatment. There is limited evidence that this is effective at managing symptoms of PA. The aim of this study was to document treatment changes across the United Kingdom and the impact on patient experience. An online survey explored how the treatment of PA has been managed during the early stages of the pandemic; responses were analyzed for a subsample of participants receiving prescribed B12 injections and where changes in treatment applied (n = 329) using content analysis. The most common reported change was the suspension of injections, with oral B12 being offered as an alternative treatment. Patients were concerned about the long-term impact that changes would have on their condition management, and many stated that they were dissatisfied with the level of care received. Those who were supported by health care providers to continue their usual treatment reported experiencing improved health and well-being. This study highlights the major impact of treatment changes on patient health outcomes and the need to further support health care professionals with PA management during and beyond the pandemic.
Interrupted Identities: Autologous Stem Cell Transplant in Patients With Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Halpin Sean N , Konomos Michael , Jowers Ivey
Published: March 2021

In the current study, we sought to examine whether patients incorporate the identity of a patient receiving autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for multiple myeloma (MM) into their daily lives. Multiple myeloma patients receive education before initiating the ASCT treatment process. In this ethnographic study using interpretative phenomenological analysis, we observed pretransplant education visits with 30 MM patients, followed by semistructured interviews in their hospital rooms during transplant. The experience of receiving ASCT for MM required effort by patients to not only maintain their past identity but also establish a new patient identity. Reconciling these 2 identities required deliberate and emotionally draining effort from the patient. Results were organized into 2 overarching themes of social relationships and aesthetics with subthemes for each. Understanding methods MM patients who are receiving ASCT use to negotiate normalcy during treatment may be helpful for developing interventions for alleviating distress during this difficult time.
Family Structure and Secondary Exposure to Violence in the Context of Varying Neighborhood Risks and Resources
Authors: Stritzel Haley , Smith Gonzalez Chelsea , Cavanagh Shannon E. , Crosnoe Robert
Published: March 2021

Secondary exposure to violence in the community is a prevalent developmental risk with implications for youths’ short- and long-term socioemotional functioning. This study used longitudinal, multilevel data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods to consider how family structure, including parental instability, is associated with youths’ secondary exposure to violence across diverse neighborhood contexts. Results showed that both living in a stable single-parent household and experiencing parental instability were associated with greater secondary exposure to violence compared with living in a stable two-parent household. The associations between having a single parent or experiencing parental instability and secondary exposure to violence were especially strong in neighborhoods with high levels of crime and strong neighborhood ties.
Do land policies make a difference? A data-driven approach to trace effects on urban form in France and Germany
Authors: Jehling Mathias , Hecht Robert
Published: March 2021

Against the backdrop of rapidly expanding urban structures, land policies in many countries have been adapted to contain and redirect growth to existing urban structures. However, obstacles remain to measure the effects of policies. In the meantime, geoinformation technologies have given rise to a wide range of approaches to measure and describe urban form. Nevertheless, its application for the assessment of land policy has a high, but not yet fully exploited, potential. It is thus the aim of this research to address and investigate the options of spatial analysis and machine learning in particular to analyse urban form from a land policy perspective. To do so, we develop urban metrics informed by urban planning and land readjustment policies of two countries describing urban form on different spatial levels. We therefore formulate hypotheses on causal relations between policy and form. Based on the metrics, we apply the random forest algorithm to classify the building stock of the region. We then extract the residential areas, those with single-family houses, as this is where the effects of the policy are considered most visible. In a next step, we use random forest to predict the nationality of a building. Through variable importance measures, we identify and discuss urban morphological differences between the two countries and test the hypotheses on effects of land policies. We develop and test the approach for the French-German city-region of Strasbourg using OpenStreetMap data. We identify significant differences in the building coverage ratios, which tend to be higher in Germany. This can be linked to differences in planning regulations. Furthermore, German residential areas appear to be more diverse in urban form. Differences in land readjustment policies have proven to be plausible here, as French policies favour strong actors that develop residential areas more uniformly. In Germany, policies favour fragmented ownership-oriented development of residential areas. The metrics and the applied algorithm for building classification have proven to be robust in terms of data heterogeneity and have shown high levels of accuracy. They could also be successfully used for tracing causal relations.
Pectoralis Major Tendon Reconstruction at the Myotendinous Junction With Semitendinosus Allograft: An Operative Technique
Authors: Wickman John , Goltz Daniel , Lau Brian
Published: March 2021

Background:

Pectoralis major (PM) tendon tears are a relatively uncommon injury that typically occurs in a young, active population during weightlifting or recreational sports. Musculotendinous junction and chronic PM tears often require tendon reconstruction due to inadequate remnant tendon stump or inability to reduce the remnant tendon stump to humeral footprint.

Indications:

We favor operative repair or reconstruction of PM tears in all young and active patients medically appropriate for surgery as supported by the literature. We present a technique for PM tendon reconstruction with semitendinosus allograft. This technique is applicable to musculotendinous junction and chronic tears.

Technique:

A modified deltopectoral approach is used. The PM tear is identified at the musculotendinous junction and the retracted muscle belly is mobilized. The PM tendon is reconstructed with a semitendinosus allograft using a Pulvertaft weave technique. The humeral footprint is prepped and the reconstructed tendon is properly tensioned and reduced. Fixation is performed with fibertapes loaded on 3 unicortical buttons. Postoperatively, the patient follows a graduated rehabilitation protocol.

Results:

There is a paucity of literature regarding outcomes of PM tendon reconstructions for musculotendinous junction tears. One study reported outcomes on 6 patients who had musculotendinous junction tears and underwent semitendinosus allograft reconstruction with a technique similar to ours. They report good clinical outcomes with high patient satisfaction regarding cosmetic outcome, return of strength, and overall satisfaction postoperatively.

Discussion:

It is our experience that the described technique for reconstruction of the PM tendon with semitendinosus allograft provides a viable option with good clinical outcomes for patients with PM ruptures at the musculotendinous junction.
Site of relapse of ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas affects survival after multimodal therapy
Authors: Safi S. A. , Lehwald-Tywuschik N. , Rehders A. , Fluegen G. , Haeberle L. , Keitel V. , Knoefel W. T.
Published: March 2021

Background

Ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas (PDAC) remains one of the most lethal malignancies. To date, no guidelines exists for isolated resectable metachronous disease. It is still unknown, which patients may benefit from relapse surgery. The aim of our study was to compare disease free survival (DFS) and post relapse survival (PRS) in patients with isolated local recurrence, metachronous hepatic or pulmonary metastases.

Methods

Patients with isolated resectable local recurrence, metachronous hepatic or pulmonary metastases were included for survival analyses. PRS of surgically treated patients (local (n = 11), hepatic (n = 6) and pulmonary metastases (n = 9)) was compared to conservatively treated patients (local (n = 17), hepatic (n = 37) and pulmonary metastases (n = 8)).

Results

Resected PDAC patients suffering from isolated metachronous hepatic metastases initially had a higher T-stage and venous invasion (V1) compared to the other patients. DFS in the metachronous pulmonary metastases group was longer compared to DFS of the hepatic metastases and local recurrence groups. Surgical resection significantly improved PRS in patients with local recurrence and pulmonary metastases, when compared to patients receiving chemotherapy alone. Very-long term survivors (> 5 years) were detected following secondary resection of local recurrence and 45% of these patients were still alive at the end of our study period.

Conclusion

Although DFS in PDAC patients suffering from isolated local recurrence was dismal and comparable to that of patients with isolated hepatic metastases, very-long term survivors were present only in this group. These results indicate that a surgical approach for isolated local recurrence, if anatomically possible, should be considered.
Application of a double reverse traction repositor in the retrograde intramedullary nailing of distal femur fractures
Authors: Lian Xiaodong , Zhao Kuo , Chen Wei , Zhang Junzhe , Li Junyong , Meng Hongyu , Hou Zhiyong , Zhang Yingze
Published: March 2021

Objective

The purpose of this prospective study was to introduce the application of a double reverse traction repositor (DRTR) in the retrograde intramedullary nailing (RE-IMN) of AO/OTA 33A distal femur fractures.

Patients and methods

A total of 27 patients with AO/OTA type 33A distal femur fractures who were admitted from January 2015 to May 2017 to a level I trauma center of a tertiary university hospital were enrolled in this prospective study. A DRTR was used to facilitate RE-IMN for the reduction of distal femur fractures in all patients. The demographic and fracture characteristics, surgical data, postoperative complications, and prognostic indicators of 24 patients were recorded.

Results

The DRTR helped achieve and maintain the reduction of all distal femur fractures in the present study. All surgeries were conducted by closed reduction, and excellent alignment was observed in the postoperative X-ray images. In the present study, 18 males and 6 females were included, and the average age of all patients was 51.3 years (range, 24–68 years). The mean operation time, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative fluoroscopy time, and length of postoperative hospital stay were 137 min (range from 80 to 210 min), 320 ml (range from 200 to 600 ml), 28 (from 24 to 33), and 9 days (from 5 to 14 days), respectively. Eleven patients were found to have postoperative deep venous thrombosis before discharge. No cases of wound infection were observed. No cases of nonunion or malunion were observed. The average follow-up duration was 21 months (18–30 months). The average HHS, LKFS, and VAS scores at the 1-year follow-up were 89.9 (86–97), 79.1 (75–87), and 2.1 (from 0 to 5). No complications associated with DRTR were found.

Conclusions

A DRTR can be successfully applied in the treatment of distal femur fractures with RE-IMN, and it can not only help achieve or maintain the reduction of distal femur fractures with closed methods but also promote fixation with RE-IMN.
El Antropoceno y el espacio común, palancas para enfrentar el cambio climático
Authors: González-Lopéz Sergio
Published: March 2021

La problemática ambiental agudizada denominada “cambio climático” ha propiciado mayores acciones para combatirla, pero han sido insuficientes y lentas ante la magnitud y urgencia re­queridas. Este artículo revisa el planteamiento del Antropoceno y explora la idea del “espacio común” con el objetivo de establecerlos como palancas para impulsar enfoques más precisos que el cambio climático, porque destacan en las acciones humanas y superan la dicotomía entre lo público y lo privado, que diluye la responsabilidad en las decisiones sobre lo ambiental. Ante la prospectiva documentada del mayor riesgo de afectación drástica en las condiciones de la vida humana y, en general, del planeta, es urgente actuar con responsabilidad en la construcción de espacios que se reconozcan comunes.
Analysis of Droplet Characteristics and Kinetic Energy Distribution for Fixed Spray Plate Sprinkler at Low Working Pressure
Authors: Chen Rui , Li Hong , Wang Jian , Guo Xin
Published: March 2021

Highlights

An experiment was conducted to investigate the hydraulic performance of a fixed spray plate sprinkler (FSPS).

A model was developed for estimating the cumulative kinetic energy of the FSPS under a moving system.

The droplet characteristics and kinetic energy distribution were affected by the working pressure and FSPS structure.

A high cumulative kinetic energy could lead to a low water infiltration rate into the soil.

Abstract. The kinetic energy of droplets from a fixed spray plate sprinkler (FSPS) has a substantial influence on runoff and soil erosion, as well as on the energy consumption of moving sprinkler irrigation systems. To determine the droplet characteristics and kinetic energy of an FSPS, an experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of working pressure, plate structure, and nozzle size on the droplet diameter, velocity, and kinetic energy. Two plates (the FSPSB with a concave trajectory and deep grooves in the blue plate, and the FSPSY with a flat trajectory and shallow grooves in the yellow plate) were used in the tests. The cumulative kinetic energy and water depth were calculated for a single sprinkler moving in a straight line. The results show that the FSPSB, which had deeper grooves in the plate, produced a larger droplet diameter than the FSPSY, with shallow grooves in the plate. The droplet landing velocities presented a logarithmic relationship with the droplet diameter, and velocities increased with an increase in droplet diameter. The peak specific power (SP) value of the FSPSB was 1.14 to 16.76 times that of the FSPSY. When the working pressure was less than 150 kPa, the peak SP of the FSPSB remained at a high level. With an increase in working pressure, the peak SP of the FSPSB initially increased and then decreased, while the peak SP of the FSPSY increased. The cumulative kinetic energy of the FSPSB was higher than that of the FSPSY under mobile spray conditions. Compared with the cumulative water depth, the cumulative kinetic energy of the FSPSB increased and then decreased as the working pressure increased for the same applied water volume. Because the soil had a lower infiltration rate under the FSPSB, surface ponding was more likely to occur with the FSPSB than with the FSPSY at low working pressure. Keywords: Cumulative kinetic energy, Droplet size, Specific power, Sprinkler irrigation, Working condition.