bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between obesity and the aggravation of limited range of ankle mobility in chronic venous disease
Authors: Belczak Sergio Q , Neves Ramos Rubiana , Pereira de Godoy Jose Maria
Published: November 2021

Aim

The aim of the present study was to show that an increase in weight leads to the aggravation of limited joint mobility.

Method

One hundred sixteen patients with varicose veins of the lower limbs and body mass index (BMI) higher than 30 kg/m2 were evaluated at the Belczak Clinic in Maringá, Brazil. All patients were evaluated by the same physician, and the goniometric readings were performed on all patients by a physiotherapist. The participants were then divided into three groups based on BMI: Group I—BMI between 30 and 40. Group II—BMI between 40 and 50, and Group III—BMI > 50.

Results

There is a significant difference between the groups detected.

Conclusion

The present findings show that an increased BMI in obese individuals with chronic venous disease is associated with a progressive limitation of ankle mobility.
Hemodynamic and metabolic changes during hypercapnia with normoxia and hyperoxia using pCASL and TRUST MRI in healthy adults
Authors: Deckers Pieter T , Bhogal Alex A , Dijsselhof Mathijs BJ , Faraco Carlos C , Liu Peiying , Lu Hanzhang , Donahue Manus J , Siero Jeroen CW
Published: December 2021

Blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) or arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI with hypercapnic stimuli allow for measuring cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR). Hypercapnic stimuli are also employed in calibrated BOLD functional MRI for quantifying neuronally-evoked changes in cerebral oxygen metabolism (CMRO2). It is often assumed that hypercapnic stimuli (with or without hyperoxia) are iso-metabolic; increasing arterial CO2 or O2 does not affect CMRO2. We evaluated the null hypothesis that two common hypercapnic stimuli, ‘CO2 in air’ and carbogen, are iso-metabolic. TRUST and ASL MRI were used to measure the cerebral venous oxygenation and cerebral blood flow (CBF), from which the oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and CMRO2 were calculated for room-air, ‘CO2 in air’ and carbogen. As expected, CBF significantly increased (9.9% ± 9.3% and 12.1% ± 8.8% for ‘CO2 in air’ and carbogen, respectively). CMRO2 decreased for ‘CO2 in air’ (−13.4% ± 13.0%, p < 0.01) compared to room-air, while the CMRO2 during carbogen did not significantly change. Our findings indicate that ‘CO2 in air’ is not iso-metabolic, while carbogen appears to elicit a mixed effect; the CMRO2 reduction during hypercapnia is mitigated when including hyperoxia. These findings can be important for interpreting measurements using hypercapnic or hypercapnic-hyperoxic (carbogen) stimuli.
A pilot study of the association between leukoaraiosis and cerebral atherosclerosis using synthetic magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Yang Jingdong , Song Yan , Huang Juan , Qu Jianxun , Jiao Sheng , Wu Puyeh , Chen Min
Published: December 2021

Background

Leukoaraiosis is a type of lesion characterized by tissue rarefaction or myelin pallor resulting from axons loss and gliosis. Synthetic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could yield quantitative T1, T2, proton density (PD) values of leukoaraiosis in addition to information on the volume of the lesion.

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of quantifying leukoaraiosis using synthetic MRI and to explore the association between leukoaraiosis and cerebral small vascular diseases and cerebral atherosclerosis.

Material and Methods

Patients with acute ischemic stroke were enrolled in this study. All participants underwent a conventional T2-weighted image, brain volume, CUBE fluid attenuated inversion recovery, and synthetic MRI acquisition using a 3.0-T MR system. A time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography was also obtained. We evaluated the T1, T2, PD values and leukoaraiosis volume.

Results

Analysis of the leukoaraiosis volume ratios demonstrated a positive association with T2 values, a negative association with T1 values, and no association with PD values. Leukoaraiosis volume ratios were independently correlated with age ( P < 0.001), lacunes ( P = 0.022), and cerebral microbleeds ( P = 0.010). A statistical association was found between both age ( P < 0.001) and lacunes ( P = 0.047) and leukoaraiosis T2 values.

Conclusion

Synthetic MRI may enhance the evaluation of leukoaraiosis, in addition to providing information on its volume. Leukoaraiosis may represent a type of cerebral small vascular disease rather than cerebral atherosclerosis and may share the same pathological mechanism as lacunes and cerebral microbleeds.
Mutation analysis of a 10-gene panel for colorectal cancer in Huizhou, Guangdong Province of China
Authors: Li Jun , Sun Aihua , Zhong Guofang , He Ying , Xiong Hailin , Yuan Xia
Published: December 2021

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the type and frequency of mutations in 10 genes in 85 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients in Huizhou and the guiding significance of targeted drug use.

Methods

The 10-gene panel next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to assess genetic variants in 85 CRC patients from the Huizhou area combined with clinical information for a comprehensive analysis.

Results

Upon initial mutation testing, 68% (58/85) were positive. The mutation frequencies of these genes, including KRAS, PIK3CA, NRAS, ERBB2, BRAF, EGFR, and PDGFRA, were 51%, 20%, 5%, 4%, 4%, 1%, and 1%, respectively. Overall, 29 mutation types were detected from seven genes. More mutations were detected in more advanced cancers. There were three samples with multiple mutations of a single gene, including KRAS (n = 2) and ERBB2 (n = 2), 12 samples with multiple mutations of double genes, including KRAS/PIK3CA (n = 10), BRAF/PIK3CA (n = 1), and NRAS/PIK3CA (n = 1), and one sample with multiple mutations of three genes, including ERBB2/KRAS/PIK3CA (n = 1). Theoretically, 27 patients could receive targeted treatment. During the actual treatment, 10 patients received bevacizumab, cetuximab, or fruquintinib with no progression ranging from 12 to 24 months.

Conclusion

Gene mutations detected by a 10-gene panel were useful for targeting therapy of CRC in Huizhou.
The Palermo Stone and Its Associated Fragments: New Discoveries on the Oldest Royal Annals of Ancient Egypt
Authors: Nuzzolo Massimiliano
Published: November 2021

Historical royal sources concerning Old Kingdom Egypt are rather scarce. One of the most important is a group of seven inscribed stone fragments also known as royal annals, the most famous of which is certainly the so-called Palermo Stone. These annals have been the subject of countless studies over more than a century since their initial discovery. However, the reading and interpretation of the hieroglyphic inscriptions engraved on them is still partial and often obscure. In recent years, however, the annals underwent a complete re-examination by means of the most up-to date technologies of 3D photographic documentation and reproduction – first of all, the so-called ‘Reflectance Transformation Imaging’ (RTI). In this article we will provide some insights on the new reading of selected parts of the fragments, especially the two major pieces: the Palermo Stone and the so-called ‘Cairo Fragment 1’.
Infectious addictions: Geographies of colliding epidemics
Authors: King Brian , Rishworth Andrea
Published: November 2021

Medical geography and health geography have made significant contributions to studies of human health by addressing the spatial patterns of disease exposure, location of health care services, and place-specific processes producing health and wellbeing. Human geography and human-environment geography have also contributed with emerging attention to the body, uncertainty, and health and environment interactions. What remains understudied are the co-occurrence of multiple disease patterns, including the relationships between infectious disease and addiction. We review geographic research on infectious disease and addiction to advance a theoretical framework that emphasizes the centrality of complexity, uncertainty, difference, and care in shaping human health.
An internal parallel capacitor control strategy for DC-link voltage stabilization of PMSG-based wind turbine under various fault conditions
Authors: Mahmoud Mohamed Metwally , Aly Mohamed M , Salama Hossam S , Abdel-Rahim Abdel-Moamen M
Published: December 2021

In recent years, wind energy conversion systems (WECSs) have been growing rapidly. Due to various advantages, a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) is an appealing solution among different types of wind generators. As wind power penetration level in the grid increases, wind power impacts the grid and vice versa. The most essential concerns in the system are voltage sag and swell, and grid code compliance, particularly for low voltage ride-through (LVRT) and high voltage ride-through (HVRT) capability, is a pressing necessity. This paper presents a parallel capacitor (PC) control strategy to enhance the LVRT and HVRT capability of PMSG. Furthermore, this study presents a method for the sizing of a PC system for the reduction of the overvoltage of the DC-link during voltage sags and swell. Fast Fourier transform analysis is used to determine the total harmonic distortion (THD) for the injected current into the grid. The obtained results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed system in keeping the DC-link voltage below the limit, power quality improvement, and increasing the LVRT and HVRT capability. Models of wind turbine, PMSG, and PC control system are built using MATLAB/SIMULINK software.
Book review: Sabita Singh, The Politics of Marriage in Medieval India: Gender and Alliance in Rajasthan
Authors: Upadhyaya Manorama
Published: November 2021

Sabita Singh, The Politics of Marriage in Medieval India: Gender and Alliance in Rajasthan, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2019, xiii + 292 pp., ₹1,195, ISBN: 9780199491453.
Near-Fatal Self-Harm Among Canadian Adolescents
Authors: Mitchell Rachel HB , Ani Cornelius , Cyr Claude , Irvine James , Joffe Ari R , Skinner Robin , Wong Sam , Stang Antonia S , Laffin Melanie , Korczak Daphne J
Published: November 2021

Objective

To evaluate the clinical features of Canadian adolescents admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for medically serious self-harm.

Methods

2700 Canadian paediatricians were surveyed monthly over two years (January 2017 to December 2018) through the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program to ascertain data from eligible cases.

Results

Ninety-three cases (73 female; age 15.2 ± 1.5) met the case definition. Four provinces reported the majority of cases: Quebec (n = 27), Ontario (n = 26), Alberta (n = 21), and British Columbia (n = 8). There were 10 deaths, 9 by hanging. Overdose and hanging were the most frequently reported methods of self-harm (74.2% and 19.4%, respectively). Overdose was more common in females (80.8% females vs. 50% males; χ2 = 7.8 (1), p = .005), whereas hanging was more common in males (35% males vs. 15.1% females, χ2 = 3.9 (1), p = .04). More females than males had a past psychiatric diagnosis (79% vs. 58%; χ2 = 4.1 (1), p = .06), a previous suicide attempt (55.9% vs. 29.4%, χ2 = 3.8 (1), p = .05), and prior use of mental health service (69.7% vs. 27.8%, χ2 = 10.4 (1), p = .001). Family conflict was the most commonly identified precipitating factor (43%) of self-harm.

Conclusions

Among Canadian adolescents admitted to the ICU with medically serious self-harm, females demonstrate a higher rate of suicide attempts and prior mental health care engagement, whereas males are more likely to die by suicide. These findings are consistent with data from other adolescent samples, as well as data from working-age and older adults. Therefore, a sex-specific approach to suicide prevention is warranted as part of a national suicide prevention strategy; family conflict may be a specific target for suicide prevention interventions among adolescents.
Central Nervous System Infections Due to Streptococcus anginosus Group: A Single-Center Case Series
Authors: Madathil Sujana , Matsumoto Satsuki , Mathews Katherine D. , Glykys Joseph
Published: December 2021

Background

The Streptococcus anginosus group is known for its pathogenicity and tendency for abscess formation. The S anginosus group also causes brain abscesses, yet few studies describe this presentation in the pediatric neurology literature. We describe 5 patients with central nervous system infection due to S anginosus group evaluated by child neurologists at the University of Iowa from 2014 to 2020.

Methods

We performed a retrospective case series review of electronic medical records detailing the clinical presentation and course of pediatric patients with S anginosus group–associated central nervous system infection.

Results

We identified 4 males and 1 female (8, 11, 14, 16, and 21 years). Brain imaging showed abscesses in 4 cases and empyema in 1. All underwent neurosurgical intervention and antibiotic treatment. Cultures obtained during the neurosurgical procedure grew S anginosus group (4 cases with Streptococcus intermedius and 1 with Streptococcus constellatus). An 8-year-old boy with a delayed diagnosis died from brain herniation.

Conclusions

Central nervous system infections due to the S anginosus group can be life-threatening. Neuroimaging plays a key role in the early identification of abscesses. Prompt surgical intervention and timely initiation of antibiotics are critical for optimal outcomes.
Localism in Internet governance: The rise of China's provincial web
Authors: Wu Angela Xiao , Li Luzhou
Published: December 2021

Often analysing ‘the Chinese Internet’ as a national entity, existing research has overlooked China's provincially oriented web portals, which have supplied information and entertainment to substantial user populations. Through the lenses of the critical political economy of media and critical media industry studies, this article traces the ascendance of China's provincial web from the late 1990s to the early 2000s by analysing industry yearbooks, official reports, conference records, personal memoirs, archived webpages, and user traffic data. We uncover interactions between Internet service providers, legacy media organizations, commercial Internet companies, and the central and local governments – each driven by discrete economic interests, political concerns, and imaginaries about the new technology. Delineating the emergence and consolidation of China's provincial web, our study foregrounds the understudied political economy of online content regionalization at scale. Further, it sheds new light on Chinese media policy, Internet governance, and Internet histories, especially the widely noted conservative turn of online cultures after the mid-2010s.
Door sealing mechanism and process in vehicle engineering
Authors: Tong Menghan , Xiu Shichao , Chen Xiaoshan , Chen Siyu
Published: December 2021

The reliability of door sealing plays an important role in maintaining the quality of vehicle noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). To improve the reliability of door sealing, a novel sealing process has been proposed. The factors influencing the door sealing quality have been investigated. The relationships between the peeling force, peeling speed, and peeling time have been calculated using the five-variable rheological theory. The maximum stress versus time curve and the distribution of stress and strain at the moment of debonding have been obtained by nonlinear solid cohesive coupling dynamics simulation. The rolling process of the door sealing strip has been developed, and automatic rolling equipment for door sealing has been designed and manufactured. The factors influencing the peeling force have been determined by a peeling test of the door sealing strip. The results show that the peeling force increases with an increase in the peeling speed and time. The C-shaped structure at the front end of the base material during the stripping process makes the peeling angle sharp. In addition, the uneven stripping speed causes the stripping line to become irregular. The peeling force increases with the increase in rolling pressure and failure time. The optimum rolling pressure was 70 N/m2 and the optimum aging time was 24 h.
Dynamics analysis of a gyrostat system with intermittent forcing
Authors: He Jianbin , Cai Jianping
Published: December 2021

The dynamical characteristics of a gyrostat system with intermittent forcing are investigated, the main work and contributions are given as follows: (1) The gyrostat system with an intermittent forcing is studied, and its dynamical characteristics are investigated by the corresponding Lyapunov exponent spectrums and bifurcation diagrams with respect to the amplitude of intermittent forcing. The modified gyrostat system exists chaotic motion when the amplitude of intermittent forcing belongs to a certain interval, and it can be at a state of stable point or periodic motion by the design of amplitude. (2) The gyrostat system with multiple intermittent forcings is also investigated through the combination of Lyapunov exponent spectrums and bifurcation diagrams, and it behaves periodic motion or chaotic motion when the amplitude or forcing width is different. (3) By the selection of parameters in intermittent forcings, the modified gyrostat system is at a state of stable point, periodic motion or chaotic motion. Numerical simulations verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the modified gyrostat system.
Power in Value Cocreation Process: The Emergence of a New Dimension
Authors: Escandon-Barbosa Diana , Salas Jairo , Rialp Josep , del Amo Maria del Camen Alarcon
Published: December 2021

There are different scales to measure value cocreation, but it still has no consensus about its uses. In this way, the aims to validate a multidimensional scale with seven factors related to individual characteristics and consumer behaviour included a new emerging dimension inside individual characteristics that are relevant to analyse value cocreation: power importance. The measurement instrument was developed, validated and tested using 1,300 Colombian and Vietnam consumers. For the final analysis, a confirmatory factor analysis was used, resulting in an adjusted and reliable multidimensional model. The results suggest seven dimensions (personal interaction, feedback, helping, tolerance, learning, personalization and power importance). Regarding the power importance that includes items that are related to the way in which consumers develop emotions at the moment of influencing others (authority, social recognized, wellness and monetary retribution). Finally, the present study contributes to the literature on value cocreation through the identification of a key aspect in the interaction between the company and the consumer. This term has recently attracted the attention of scholars and that has been little explored in the field of consumer behaviour.
“Making a Way Out of No Way:” Understanding the Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Experiences of Transmasculine Young Adults of Color in the United States
Authors: Agénor Madina , Zubizarreta Dougie , Geffen Sophia , Ramanayake Natasha , Giraldo Shane , McGuirk Allison , Caballero Mateo , Bond Keosha
Published: December 2021

Research focusing on the specific and unique sexual and reproductive health care experiences of transmasculine young adults of color are extremely scarce. We conducted five focus group discussions with 19 Black, Latinx, Asian, Native, and other transmasculine individuals of color aged 18–25 years in the greater Boston area. Using thematic analysis, we found that transmasculine young adults of color experienced cissexism, heterosexism, and racism in accessing and utilizing sexual and reproductive health services. These multiple forms of discrimination undermined participants’ receipt of high-quality sexual and reproductive health information and care from competent health care providers who shared their lived experiences. Participants relied on support from their lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer peers to obtain needed sexual and reproductive health resources and minimize harm during clinical encounters. Multilevel interventions are needed to promote access to person-centered and structurally competent sexual and reproductive health care among transmasculine young adults of color.
Qualitative Data Sharing: Participant Understanding, Motivation, and Consent
Authors: VandeVusse Alicia , Mueller Jennifer , Karcher Sebastian
Published: December 2021

Expectations to share data underlying studies are increasing, but research on how participants, particularly those in qualitative research, respond to requests for data sharing is limited. We studied research participants’ willingness to, understanding of, and motivations for data sharing. As part of a larger qualitative study on abortion reporting, we conducted interviews with 64 cisgender women in two states in early 2020 and asked for consent to share de-identified data. At the end of interviews, we asked participants to reflect on their motivations for agreeing or declining to share their data. The vast majority of respondents consented to data sharing and reported that helping others was a primary motivation for agreeing to share their data. However, a substantial number of participants showed a limited understanding of the concept of “data sharing.” Additional research is needed on how to improve participants’ understanding of data sharing and thus ensure fully informed consent.
Utility of Blood Cellular Indices in the Risk Stratification of Patients Presenting with Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Slajus Brett , Brailovsky Yevgeniy , Darwish Iman , Fareed Jawed , Darki Amir
Published: November 2021

Pulmonary embolism (PE) clinical manifestations vary widely, and that scope is not fully captured by current all-cause mortality risk models. PE is associated with inflammatory, coagulation, and hemostatic imbalances so blood cellular indices may be prognostically useful. Complete blood count (CBC) data may improve current risk models like the simplified pulmonary embolism severity index (sPESI) for all-cause mortality, offering greater accuracy and analytic ability. Acute PE patients (n = 228) with confirmatory diagnostic imaging were followed for all-cause mortality. Blood cellular indices were assessed for association to all-cause mortality and were supplemented into sPESI using multivariate logistic regression. Multiple blood cellular indices were found to be significantly associated with all-cause mortality in acute PE. sPESI including red cell distribution width, hematocrit and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio had better predictive ability as compared to sPESI alone (AUC: 0.852 vs 0.754). Blood cellular indices contribute an inflammatory and hemodynamic perspective not currently included in sPESI. CBC with differential is a widely used, low-cost test that can augment current risk stratification tools for all-cause mortality in acute PE patients.
Intensive Learning Experience: Development of STEM Mentorship Program for High School Gifted Students
Authors: Kim Mihyeon
Published: December 2021

Positive mentoring experiences for high school students with high academic ability who want more in-depth academic knowledge and real job expectations can contribute to individualized career guidance within the mentor’s profession. This study examined a governor’s school program that is designed as a residential mentorship program for high school students with high academic performance in the areas of engineering and marine science. Evaluation from mentors, mentees, and parents was collected after completing the program. Throughout the evaluations, we learned four lessons to develop a successful mentorship program. Setting goals and expectations, building effective communication, developing the right human resources and training, and building a developmental relationship were important elements to be considered for the development of the mentorship program.
Differentiation: A Study of its Meaning and Implementation for Gifted Students
Authors: Kaplan Sandra N.
Published: December 2021

This article addresses the following important questions regarding differentiation: What does it mean? What does it include? How is it implemented? Who receives differentiated experiences? Why does differentiation appear to be associated dominantly with gifted education? The author describes an introductory course of study that details objectives and experiences for gifted students who have been newly identified or who are continuing members of the gifted population.
Single-centre experience with endovascular rotational thrombectomy for single session salvage of thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas and grafts
Authors: Lim Cheryl , Kwan Justin , Lo Zhiwen Joseph , Hong Qiantai , Zhang Li , Chong Lester , Huang Ivan Kuang Hsin , Lim Gavin Hock Tai , Quek Lawrence Han Hwee , Pua Uei , Punamiya Sundeep , Chandrasekar Sadhana , Tan Glenn Wei Leong , Yong Enming
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

This paper documents our experience and outcomes of using a relatively new endovascular rotational thrombectomy device for salvage of thrombosed vascular access.

Methodology:

A retrospective study reviewing patients with thrombosed native AVF or AVG who underwent endovascular declotting using a rotational thrombectomy device between November 2018 and May 2020 at a tertiary university hospital in Southeast Asia. We evaluated demographics, procedural data, technical and procedural success, patency rates and complications.

Results:

A total of 40 patients underwent single session endovascular declotting of thrombosed vascular access. The mean follow-up period was 21.6 months (range 13.4–31 months). The technical success was 92.5% and clinical success was 80%. About 50% of patients had concomitant thrombolysis for pharmacomechanical thrombectomy. One patient had a myocardial infarction during the post-operative period. There were no other major complications within 30 days. The primary patency was 45.5% at 6 months and 22.7% at 12 months. Assisted primary patency was 68.1% at 6 months and 61.6% at 12 months, which was maintained up to 2 years. The secondary patency was 84.1% at 6 and 12 months.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that rotational thrombectomy device for single session thrombectomy of thrombosed arteriovenous fistulas and grafts is safe and effective. A high technical and clinical success rate was achieved, with low complication rates and specific advantages compared to other techniques, including reduced length of hospital stay. Our reported mid-term outcomes are reasonable with an assisted primary patency of 62% at 12 and 24 months. The use of newer techniques and novel dedicated thrombectomy devices show promise.
Awards and prizes as control devices: The case of urban development project awards
Authors: Styhre Alexander , Brorström Sara
Published: December 2021

In the credential society, a sharp growth of the number of awards and prizes indicate an interest in assuming the authority to define quality, and to identify extraordinary accomplishments within certain jurisdictional domain. This ambition is associated not the least with ex ante awards, awards granted on basis of plans and documents that stipulate forthcoming material contributions, or other projected accomplishments. Drawing on actor network theory, the role of ex ante awards in the field of urban development is examined. Despite being epistemologically fragile entities, ex ante awards are organizationally significant as they operate as actants that provide a variety of benefits for equally award-winning agents and award-giving organizations, but also for the specific industry sector more generally. The article reports empirical data from two urban development projects in a major Swedish city, eventually receiving ex ante awards. Both projects were associated with desirable urban development qualities, boundary–spanning interests and objectives, and a recognition of shared social norms, and the awards given arguably served to strengthen the relationships between the actors included in the project work, at the same time as award-giving organizations advance their authority to define quality. The study contributes to the scholarly literature on awards by presenting an integrated analytical framework that shed light on the direct and indirect effects of formal awards. Awards and prizes are devices that enable control in credential societies, yet being undertheorized to date, and more research that examines how awards and prizes generate a variety of outcomes is welcome.
Peer assessment in EFL teacher preparation: A longitudinal study of student perception
Authors: Joh Jeongsoon , Plakans Lia
Published: November 2021

Peer assessment has been found to have many advantages in learning particularly when viewing it through a socio-cultural lens. This study explored peer assessment across language teacher education coursework, following 15 teacher candidates through three semesters of TEFL coursework. This longitudinal approach is rare with peer assessment research. Surveys and interviews were collected to understand the students’ perception of peer assessment, including how it contributed to their learning and its summative use. Results indicated that repeatedly practicing peer assessment in coursework led to increased positive perception about its usefulness in learning and enhanced trust in peers as qualified assessors, but with a complex interaction of various factors in students’ perception, such as perceived task difficulty, interpersonal relationships, mode of feedback, etc. The participants’ hesitant attitudes about summative use of peer assessment (PA) was interpreted as largely based on their socio-culturally shaped perspectives of authority and academic achievement. Implications for using peer assessment in language teacher education are offered.
Marketisation of adult education in Sweden
Authors: Andersson Per , Muhrman Karolina
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study is to analyse how formal adult education in Sweden is enacted locally. For this analysis, the data consist of a nationwide survey sent to Swedish municipalities, background data on municipalities from public statistics and interviews with representatives of 20 municipalities. Swedish formal adult education, which includes general, vocational and Swedish for immigrants courses, is a responsibility of the municipality, but courses are not necessarily organised internally by the municipality. The results show how adult education is enacted in different ways. There are systems for outsourcing courses to various other providers, typically private training companies. There are thus both private and public providers, but courses are paid for by the municipality, which is also responsible of quality assurance. The quality assurance is typically enacted with a focus on students, via surveys and statistics on outcomes, but quality measures also target providers. Swedish adult education is characterised by extensive marketisation with many private providers and a broad supply of courses, but the municipalities are experiencing quality problems among providers, and some municipalities are considering extending their internal provision. There is also a labour-market focus where training programmes to improve adults’ employability are prioritised.
Cone Beam CT (CBCT) Based Synthetic CT Generation Using Deep Learning Methods for Dose Calculation of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Radiotherapy
Authors: Xue Xudong , Ding Yi , Shi Jun , Hao Xiaoyu , Li Xiangbin , Li Dan , Wu Yuan , An Hong , Jiang Man , Wei Wei , Wang Xiao
Published: December 2021

Objective: To generate synthetic CT (sCT) images with high quality from CBCT and planning CT (pCT) for dose calculation by using deep learning methods. Methods: 169 NPC patients with a total of 20926 slices of CBCT and pCT images were included. In this study the CycleGAN, Pix2pix and U-Net models were used to generate the sCT images. The Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR), and Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) were used to quantify the accuracy of the proposed models in a testing cohort of 34 patients. Radiation dose were calculated on pCT and sCT following the same protocol. Dose distributions were evaluated for 4 patients by comparing the dose-volume-histogram (DVH) and 2D gamma index analysis. Results: The average MAE and RMSE values between sCT by three models and pCT reduced by 15.4 HU and 26.8 HU at least, while the mean PSNR and SSIM metrics between sCT by different models and pCT added by 10.6 and 0.05 at most, respectively. There were only slight differences for DVH of selected contours between different plans. The passing rates of 2D gamma index analysis under 3 mm/3% 3 mm/2%, 2 mm/3%and 2 mm/2% criteria were all higher than 95%. Conclusions: All the sCT had achieved better evaluation metrics than those of original CBCT, while the performance of CycleGAN model was proved to be best among three methods. The dosimetric agreement confirmed the HU accuracy and consistent anatomical structures of sCT by deep learning methods.
The Use of Prebiotic and Probiotic Interventions for Treating Gastrointestinal and Psychosocial Health Symptoms in Cancer Patients and Survivors: A Systematic Review
Authors: Deleemans Julie M. , Gajtani Zen , Baydoun Mohamad , Reimer Raylene A. , Piedalue Katherine-Ann , Carlson Linda E.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Cancer treatments can cause significant gastrointestinal (GI) health issues, and negatively affect patient’s psychosocial health and quality of life (QOL). Novel, integrative strategies using prebiotics and probiotics have been explored for treating adverse cancer treatment-related side effects. We evaluated the current literature for interventions using prebiotics or probiotics specifically to treat GI and psychosocial health issues in cancer patients and survivors.

Methods:

Five databases (PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), CINHAL, PsychINFO, Web of Science) were searched for studies with prebiotic or probiotic interventions where GI and/or psychosocial health outcomes were measured in adult cancer patients and survivors, and published before September 12th 2021.

Results:

Twelve studies (N = 974 participants) meeting the inclusion criteria were identified (randomized controlled trials [n = 10], single-group pre-post studies [n = 2]). Ten studies were conducted with patients on active cancer treatment, and 2 studies treated patients after anti-cancer therapies. Three studies used prebiotics, 7 studies used probiotics, and 2 studies used a combination therapy. The most commonly used probiotic strains were from the Lactobacillus genus. There was minimal evidence for prebiotics to improve GI or psychosocial health. Probiotics were associated with significant improvements in abdominal pain (n = 2), gas/bloating (n = 2), and especially diarrhea (n = 5), and with improvements in anxiety (n = 1), depression (n = 1), fatigue (n = 1), and QOL (n = 2).

Conclusions:

Studies specifically examining effects of prebiotics and probiotics on GI and psychosocial health outcomes are scarce. Probiotic intervention may improve some GI symptoms in cancer patients, and QOL in survivors. Controlled trials that consistently include GI and psychosocial health outcomes are needed.
Biochemical Investigation of Therapeutic Potential of Resveratrol Against Arsenic Intoxication
Authors: Irshad Kanwal , Rehman Kanwal , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid , Hussain Iqbal
Published: November 2021

Arsenic has been reported to cause damaging effects on different body organs. This study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of resveratrol (RSV) against arsenic trioxide (ATO)–induced intoxication in experimental animals. Twenty-four Wistar rats were allocated in 4 groups: group 1: control group, received normal diet; group 2: received ATO (3 mg/kg); group 3: received RSV (8 mg/kg) 30 minutes before administration of ATO; and group 4: received ascorbic acid (25 mg/kg) 30 minutes before administration of ATO. Treatments were given to experimental rats daily for consecutive 8 days. At the end of experimental period, bioaccumulation of arsenic in liver and kidney was assessed by hydride generation-atomic absorption spectrophotometer to investigate the association of arsenic accumulation with histological aberrations. Following parameters were also investigated: serum biochemical profile (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine) for evaluation of liver and kidney functions and lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) in tissue homogenates of liver and kidney for estimation of oxidative status. The findings of this study indicate that RSV remarkably ameliorated the hepatic and renal toxicity in arsenic-exposed rat model due to its strong antioxidant potential.
Long-term outcomes of angioplasty for pediatric renovascular hypertension: A single-center experience
Authors: Guo Julong , Wu Sensen , Zhang Fan , Zhang Chengchao , Gu Yongquan , Guo Lianrui
Published: November 2021

Objectives

We used single-center data to evaluate the long-term outcome of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for pediatric renovascular hypertension (RVH) and to analyze the factors that influence effectiveness.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 33 pediatric RVH patients (18 boys; mean age: 9.1 ± 4 years, range: 2–16) who underwent PTA from January 2007 to December 2019. 15 patients had Takayasu arteritis (TA) and 18 were non-TA. The median follow-up from the initial PTA was 69 months (range: 12–157; IQR: 25.5–89).

Results

The technical success rate of 52 PTA procedures was 90.4% in 33 children. Renal artery stents were implanted in two patients, external guidewires were used in two patients, and a drug-coated balloon was used in only one patient. The overall effective rate of PTA was 63.6%, including cured 39.4% and improved 24.2%, at the end of follow-up. Overall clinical outcomes were not statistically different between the TA and non-TA groups ( p = 0.316), nor were cure rates ( p = 0.072). 15 patients received reintervention due to restenosis after the first successful PTA; the interval was 2–56 months (median: 12 months). Four patients received reintervention due to a failed PTA. A total of four patients received open surgery. Binary logistics regression analysis showed that stenosis length and residual stenosis rate were strongly correlated with effective PTA ( p = 0.045, p = 0.044).

Conclusions

As a primary treatment for pediatric RVH, PTA can achieve satisfactory results, which are influenced by lesion length and residual stenosis rate.
Lighting the Patient Room of the Future: Evaluating Different Lighting Conditions From the Patient Perspective
Authors: DuBose Jennifer , Davis Robert G. , Campiglia Gabrielle , Wilkerson Andrea , Zimring Craig
Published: December 2021

Objective:

This study explores whether “future” lighting systems that provide greater control and opportunity for circadian synchronization are acceptable to participants in the role of patients.

Background:

Tunable, dimmable light emitting diode systems provide multiple potential benefits for healthcare. They can provide significant energy savings, support circadian synchronization by varying the spectrum and intensity of light over the course of the day, address nighttime navigation needs, and provide user-friendly control. There is an emerging understanding of the important visual and nonvisual effects of light; however, important questions remain about the experience and acceptability of this “future” lighting if we are to adopt it broadly.

Methods:

Volunteer participants (34) performed a series of tasks typical of patients, such as reading or watching a video, in a full-scale simulated inpatient room. Each participant conducted these tasks under 12 lighting conditions in a counterbalanced order that included varying illuminance levels, correlated color temperatures (CCTs), and in a few conditions, saturated colors. The participants rated each lighting condition on comfort, intensity, appropriateness, and naturalness.

Results and Conclusions:

The participants found that conditions with CCTs of 5,000 K and higher were significantly less comfortable and less natural than conditions with lower CCTs. Conditions with lighting distributed in multiple zones in the patient room were viewed more favorably than a traditional overbed configuration. The participants in this simulated patient study reacted negatively to colored lighting on the footwall of the room but found a mixture of warmer and cooler luminaire CCTs acceptable.
Acute poisoning with acetamiprid, a type of neonicotinoid insecticide causing severe lactic acidosis: A case report
Authors: Pravinson Mohanaruban , Pirasath Selladurai , Ghetheeswaran Srivickneswaran , Uthayakumaran Sivahamy
Published: November 2021

Acetamiprid is a type of neonicotinoid that belongs to the new class of insecticides. It is fatally toxic to insects by acting as an agonist to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Cases with neonicotinoids including acetamiprid poisoning in humans were reported around the world. Only one case with acetamiprid poisoning associated with severe adverse effects has been described from Sri Lanka. Serious side effects will occur if it is consumed in excess amount. Here, we described a case of acetamiprid poisoning in a man who developed severe lactic acidosis, myocardial suppression, hyperglycemia, and intestinal obstruction following accidental intake of acetamiprid insecticide. The patient was managed conservatively as there is no specific management mentioned in the literature.
Direct Reimplantation Procedure in Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Right Coronary Artery: Long-Term Single Center Outcomes
Authors: Amadou Daouda , Mitchell Julia , Bulescu Christian , Metton Olivier , Henaine Roland , Ninet Jean
Published: November 2021

Background:

Anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery is known to be a cause of sudden cardiac death in athletes. There are no specific guidelines concerning treatment strategy in the literature. The aim of this study is to describe and report our experience of direct reimplantation technique in the treatment of this anomaly.

Methods:

This was a retrospective single center study of 30 patients who underwent surgery in the congenital heart disease unit of Louis Pradel Heart and Lung Hospital between January 2003 and December 2016. The mean follow-up was seven years (3 months-17 years).

Results:

Thirty patients underwent surgery. The median age was 17 years (0.2-52 years). There were 24 males. The median weight was 58 kg (3.6-118 kg). Fourteen patients were actively engaged in sports. Twenty-six patients had exertional chest pain or syncope. The median time lapse between diagnosis and intervention was 4.5 months (0.5-179 months). Twenty-seven (90%) patients underwent reimplantation of the anomalous coronary artery without transverse aortotomy, while in 3 (10%) patients transverse aortotomy was used to facilitate reimplantation to avoid tension at the anastomosis. There was no early death; one late death occurred in the third postoperative month. At the last follow-up, all patients had returned to normal physical activity without evidence of ischemia.

Conclusions:

Direct reimplantation allows for a complete restoration of the coronary anatomy and enables patients to return to normal physical activity. Our study shows encouraging results using a direct reimplantation technique without aortotomy.
The Relationship Between Transactional Leadership and OCB: A Conditional Analysis of Organizational Justice Perception and Psychological Contract Fulfillment
Authors: Daouk Amira , Farmanesh Panteha , Zargar Pouya
Published: November 2021

Understanding the depth of leadership and its effects on organizational outcomes have been a topic of complex nature, attracting scholars, and practitioners alike. This becomes more vital for tourism industry, where extent of competitive rivalry is extremely high as employees are vital in this sector. The current research examines the relationship between transactional leadership and organizational citizenship behavior of employees in tourism-related businesses. Furthermore, this study assumes that psychological contract fulfillment can moderate the relationship between leadership and perception of organizational justice, which can then mediate employees’ citizenship behaviors. Current research takes place in Lebanon, where the industry of tourism is highly important. Empirical evidence yielded from data analysis has shown support for moderating effect of psychological contract fulfillment on leadership and perception of justice linkage. This strengthens the perception of justice within the firm, which further proven to be of significance in terms of mediating transactional leadership and extra-role behaviors of employees. Theoretical development as well as practical implications have merged to aid the literature as well as managerial levels of tourism sector.

JEL Classification: D23, M12, Z32
Successful Treatment of Calciphylaxis in a Young Female With End-Stage Renal Disease on Peritoneal Dialysis With Parathyroidectomy, Intensification of Dialysis, and Sodium Thiosulphate—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Roy Sasmit , Reddy Sohil Narasimha , Garcha Amarinder Singh , Vantipalli Praveena , Patel Sumit S , Ur Rahman Ebad , Adapa Sreedhar
Published: November 2021

Calcific uremic arteriolopathy, commonly referred to as “calciphylaxis,” is a rare life-threatening condition observed in patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease on dialysis. This results in necrotic, ischemic, tender dermal lesions anywhere in the body, but mainly on the abdominal wall and lower extremities, where subcutaneous tissue is abundant. Histologically, it is defined by calcification in dermal capillaries, arterioles, and subcutaneous adipose tissues. It can occur in all advanced stages of chronic kidney disease as well as end-stage renal disease patients on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. Our case highlights a successful case of calciphylaxis in a young female patient who underwent parathyroidectomy and intensification of peritoneal dialysis regimen along with the infusion of sodium thiosulphate injection resulting in complete resolution of the lesion in 3 months. With limited evidence of treatment options and increased frequency of this condition in a dialysis patient, our case highlights the key aspects of calciphylaxis management in a young end-stage renal disease patient who didn’t need a change of dialysis modality. We also review the risk factors and current practiced management options of this condition in our article.
It’s Time to Consider LGBTQ-Affirmative Psychology in Malaysia
Authors: Tan Kyle K. H.
Published: December 2021

International studies have revealed stark mental health inequities affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people. While there is increasing awareness of higher prevalence of mental health difficulties among LGBTQ people in Malaysia, this issue has often been viewed through a cisheterosexist (cisgenderism and heterosexism) lens that criminalizes, pathologizes, marginalizes, and/or delegitimizes noncisgender and nonheterosexual forms of identities. Informed by LGBTQ-affirmative psychology, this viewpoint aims to scrutinize the common misconceptions surrounding the living experiences of Malaysian LGBTQ people; these include poor mental health among LGBTQ people, victim-blaming narrative of sexual violence, LGBTQ is a mental illness, and LGBTQ is a Western influence. This viewpoint draws on empirical and theoretical research, as well as international guidelines, to debunk these misconceptions. Recommendations are also provided for psychology practitioners and researchers to embark on the journey to supporting Malaysian LGBTQ people in a culturally safe manner.