bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recurrent Vestibulopathy: Comparison of Vestibular Test Results with Ménière’s Disease and Vestibular Migraine
Authors: Kaçan Melis , Kirazlı Gülce , Balayeva Fidan , Celebisoy Nese
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Recurrent and episodic vestibular symptoms not fulfilling criteria for known episodic vestibular syndromes are named as recurrent vestibulopathy (RV). We aimed to compare the vestibular test results of RV patients with vestibular migraine (VM) and Ménière’s disease (MD). Methods: Twenty patients with MD, 20 patients with VM, 18 patients with RV, and 20 healthy volunteers (HC) were evaluated. Pure-tone hearing thresholds (PTHTs), video head impulse test (vHIT), functional head impulse test (fHIT), and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) were studied. Results: PTHT of the MD-affected ears were significantly high, and cVEMP-corrected amplitudes were low when compared with the VM, RV, and HC (p < 0.001 for all). Amplitude asymmetry ratio was significantly high in MD-affected ears when compared with the HC (p = 0.014), VM (p = 0.038), and RV (p = 0.045). VEMP latencies and lateral canal vHIT gain were not different between groups (p > 0.05). The percentage of correctly identified optotypes on fHIT of the MD (p > 0.001), VM (p = 0.004), and RV (p = 0.001) patients were low in comparison with the HC. Conclusion: Apart from hearing loss, low cVEMP amplitudes on the affected side were the main feature in MD differentiating it from VM and RV. Vestibular test results of patients with RV and VM were similar. Low fHIT results in all groups indicate a functional deficit in gaze stabilization. Disabling vertigo attacks disturbing attention may be the cause of this functional impairment. MD, VM, and RV may be parts of a broad-spectrum disorder, RV patients representing milder forms not associated with cochlear or migrainous features.
Monoclonal Gammopathy of Renal Significance: A Molecular Middle Earth between Oncology, Nephrology, and Pathology
Authors: L’Imperio Vincenzo , Cazzaniga Giorgio , Vergani Barbara , Smith Andrew James , Alberici Federico , Pagni Fabio
Published: November 2022

Background: The renal biopsy represents a cornerstone in the definition of monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS), helping in identifying patients with sub-detectable neoplastic clones (MGUS) that would deserve aggressive chemotherapies. However, the rising complexity of this onco-nephrology field is significantly challenging the daily work of nephrologists and nephropathologists, leading to the formation of ultra-specialized international centers with dedicated personnel/instrumentation and stressing the need for a better understanding of the underlying molecular landscape of these entities. Summary: In this setting, the application of proteomic techniques, some with in situ capabilities (e.g., MALDI-MS imaging), for the investigation of the most challenging MGRS is progressively shedding light on the pathobiology of these diseases, providing new insights in the diagnosis and prognosis of these cases. This transformation is further enhanced by the application of next-generation digital pathology platforms, leading to a significant improvement of the cultural background for physicians thanks to second opinions, database and atlas creation, enhancement of diagnostic reports, with obvious repercussions for patients both in terms of turnaround time and appropriateness. Key Messages: The present review is aimed at bridging the gap between clinical questions (i.e., a better characterization of MGRS) and the molecular landscape of onco-nephrology entities.
Current Status and Future Prospects of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics
Authors: Kakuta Yoichi , Naito Takeo , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Masamune Atsushi
Published: November 2022

Background: The genetic background of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) has been explored using genetic analysis techniques, such as genome-wide association studies for the population and whole-exome sequencing analyses of family lineages in cases of very early onset. Summary: The results of genetic analysis for IBD indicated the involvement of innate and adaptive immune system variations and epithelial abnormalities in the pathogenesis of IBD. Several associated genes were also reported, indicating that IBD occurs in a heterogeneous population with an extremely diverse background. The genetic background of IBDs is currently being studied to understand not only its onset but also its prognosis, response to treatment, and adverse effects. In the future, it will be possible to use an individual’s genetic information for determining appropriate treatment. In Japan, the NUDT15 polymorphism test is performed before administering thiopurine preparations. However, because of racial differences in genetic analysis, biased analysis toward some racial groups may result in overlooking important genetic backgrounds of IBD. Key Message: Studies of IBDs in a more diverse range of races are expected to elucidate genetic factors through a transethnic analysis, thereby aiding the development of novel treatments and precision medicine for IBDs.
B Lymphocytes Balance Th1/Th2 to Participate in Fibrotic Hypersensitivity Pneumonia Induced by Pigeon Shedding
Authors: Wu Chao , Ding Wei , Li Yafang , Wang Wenyi , Lian Zhichuang , Muhataer Xirennayi , Zhou Yuan , Li Qifeng , Yang Xiaohong
Published: November 2022

Introduction: We investigated the molecular mechanism by which B lymphocytes regulate Th1/Th2 imbalance to participate in the pulmonary fibrosis in hypersensitivity pneumonia induced by pigeon shedding in rats. Methods: CD19+ rats and CD19− rats were used to construct animal models of fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonia. DAPT was used to inhibit the Notch signaling pathway. The pathological changes were assessed with HE and Masson staining. Protein level was detected with Western blot. Th1/Th2 ratio was analyzed with flow cytometry. Cytokine levels were measured with ELISA. Results: The pathological changes of pulmonary fibrosis were not obvious in the CD19− rats and after DAPT treatment. Notch signaling pathway proteins, including Notch1, Notch2, Jag1, Jag2, DLL1, and DLL4, in lung tissues of model rats were all significantly upregulated than those in control rats. However, these proteins in CD19− rats were lower in CD19+ rats, suggesting that B cells play a key role in inducing pneumonia. Besides, the Th1/Th2 ratio in the BALF of model rats decreased, which was further reversed by DAPT. However, we found that in CD19− rats, the regulation of the Th1/Th2 ratio by the Notch signaling pathway was lost. Conclusion: Deleting B lymphocytes or blocking the Notch pathway both reversed the Th1/Th2 imbalance in fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonia and inhibited pulmonary fibrosis.
New View on the Impact of the Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (50 Hz) on Stress Responses: Hormesis Effect
Authors: Klimek Angelika , Kletkiewicz Hanna , Siejka Agnieszka , Wyszkowska Joanna , Maliszewska Justyna , Klimiuk Maciej , Jankowska Milena , Seckl Jonathan , Rogalska Justyna
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Low-frequency electromagnetic field (50 Hz) (EMF) can modify crucial neuronal processes. Existing data indicate that exposure to EMF may represent a mild stressor and contribute to disturbances of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The important regulatory pathways controlling HPA axis activity include two types of corticosteroid receptors: mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) and glucocorticoid receptors. They are particularly abundant in the hippocampus, a key locus of HPA axis feedback control. The research aimed at determining whether (1) EMF exhibits hormesis, it means bidirectional action depending on EMF intensity (1 or 7 mT) and (2) repeated EMF exposure changes stress response to subsequent stress factors. Methods: The exposure (7 days, 1 h/day) of adult rats to EMF (1 mT and 7 mT) was repeated 3 times. HPA axis hormones and their receptors were analysed after each following exposure. Moreover, the impact of EMF exposure on hormonal and behavioural responses to subsequent stress factor – open-field test was evaluated. Results: Our data suggest that exposure to EMF can establish a new “set-point” for HPA axis activity. The direction and dynamics of this process depend on the intensity of EMF and the number of exposures. EMF of 1 mT induced an adaptive stress response, but 7 mT EMF caused sensitization. Consequently, EMF changed the vulnerability of the organism to a subsequent stress factor. We have also shown the increase in MR mRNA abundance in the hippocampus of 1 mT EMF-exposed rats, which can represent the possible neuroprotective response and suggest therapeutic properties of EMFs.
Determinantes de la transición de la escuela al trabajo en Chile
Authors: Gálvez-Gamboa Francisco A. , Pinochet-Quiroz Palmenia I.
Published: November 2022

(analytical)In Chile, the population currently categorized as young people who neither study nor work (known asNEETs) is nearly half a million people, which presents a challenge in terms of developing policies that allow them to enter the labor market or continue their studies. The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that influence the transition from school t work for the population of young Chileans using probabilistic models based on nationally representative data. The results show that poverty, the existence of children in households, gender and adolescent parenthood are determining factors. Some strategies are highlighted and an emphasis is placed on the need to continue research in this area, taking into account the multitude of factors involved.
Keywords: Youth unemployment; transition to active life; youth; labor market.
Challenges for Patients Dying of Heart Failure and Cancer
Authors: Orlovic Martina , Mossialos Elias , Orkaby Ariela R. , Joseph Jacob , Gaziano J. Michael , Skarf Lara M. , Nohria Anju , Warraich Haider J.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Hospice and palliative care were originally implemented for patients dying of cancer, both of which continue to be underused in patients with heart failure (HF). The objective of this study was to understand the unique challenges faced by patients dying of HF compared with cancer.

Methods:

We assessed differences in demographics, health status, and financial burden between patients dying of HF and cancer from the Health and Retirement Study.

Results:

The analysis included 3203 individuals who died of cancer and 3555 individuals who died of HF between 1994 and 2014. Compared with patients dying of cancer, patients dying of HF were older (80 years versus 76 years), had poorer self-reported health, and had greater difficulty with all activities of daily living while receiving less informal help. Their death was far more likely to be considered unexpected (39% versus 70%) and they were much more likely to have died without warning or within 1 to 2 hours (20% versus 1%). They were more likely to die in a hospital or nursing home than at home or in hospice. Both groups faced similarly high total healthcare out-of-pockets costs ($9988 versus $9595,
P
=0.6) though patients dying of HF had less wealth ($29 895 versus $39 008), thereby experiencing greater financial burden.

Conclusions:

Compared with patients dying of cancer, those dying from HF are older, have greater difficulty with activities of daily living, are more likely to die suddenly, in a hospital or nursing home rather than home or hospice, and had worse financial burden.
Pathogenesis of Cardiomyopathy Caused by Variants in
ALPK3
, an Essential Pseudokinase in the Cardiomyocyte Nucleus and Sarcomere
Authors: Agarwal Radhika , Wakimoto Hiroko , Paulo Joao A. , Zhang Qi , Reichart Daniel , Toepfer Christopher , Sharma Arun , Tai Angela C. , Lun Mingyue , Gorham Joshua , DePalma Steven R. , Gygi Steven P. , Seidman J.G. , Seidman Christine E.
Published: November 2022

Background:

ALPK3
encodes α-kinase 3, a muscle-specific protein of unknown function.
ALPK3
loss-of-function variants cause cardiomyopathy with distinctive clinical manifestations in both children and adults, but the molecular functions of ALPK3 remain poorly understood.

Methods:

We explored the putative kinase activity of ALPK3 and the consequences of damaging variants using isogenic human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes, mice, and human patient tissues.

Results:

Multiple sequence alignment of all human α-kinase domains and their orthologs revealed 4 conserved residues that were variant only in ALPK3, demonstrating evolutionary divergence of the ALPK3 α-kinase domain sequence. Phosphoproteomic evaluation of both ALPK3 kinase domain inhibition and overexpression failed to detect significant changes in catalytic activity, establishing ALPK3 as a pseudokinase. Investigations into alternative functions revealed that ALPK3 colocalized with myomesin proteins (MYOM1, MYOM2) at both the nuclear envelope and the sarcomere M-band.
ALPK3
loss-of-function variants caused myomesin proteins to mislocalize and also dysregulated several additional M-band proteins involved in sarcomere protein turnover, which ultimately impaired cardiomyocyte structure and function.

Conclusions:

ALPK3 is an essential cardiac pseudokinase that inserts in the nuclear envelope and the sarcomere M-band. Loss of ALPK3 causes mislocalization of myomesins, critical force-buffering proteins in cardiomyocytes, and also dysregulates M-band proteins necessary for sarcomere protein turnover. We conclude that
ALPK3
cardiomyopathy induces ventricular dilatation caused by insufficient myomesin-mediated force buffering and hypertrophy by impairment of sarcomere proteostasis.
mTOR (Mammalian Target of Rapamycin): Hitting the Bull’s Eye for Enhancing Neurogenesis After Cerebral Ischemia?
Authors: Gao Jiale , Yao Mingjiang , Chang Dennis , Liu Jianxun
Published: November 2022

Ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity and disability around the world. The sequelae of serious neurological damage are irreversible due to body’s own limited repair capacity. However, endogenous neurogenesis induced by cerebral ischemia plays a critical role in the repair and regeneration of impaired neural cells after ischemic brain injury. mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) kinase has been suggested to regulate neural stem cells ability to self-renew and differentiate into proliferative daughter cells, thus leading to improved cell growth, proliferation, and survival. In this review, we summarized the current evidence to support that mTOR signaling pathways may enhance neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and synaptic plasticity following cerebral ischemia, which could highlight the potential of mTOR to be a viable therapeutic target for the treatment of ischemic brain injury.
Cerebroprotective Role of
N
6
-Methyladenosine Demethylase FTO (Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated Protein) After Experimental Stroke
Authors: Chokkalla Anil K. , Jeong Soomin , Mehta Suresh L. , Davis Charles K. , Morris-Blanco Kahlilia C. , Bathula Saivenkateshkomal , Qureshi Simran S. , Vemuganti Raghu
Published: November 2022

Background:

FTO (fat mass and obesity-associated protein) demethylates
N
6
-methyladenosine (m
6
A), which is a critical epitranscriptomic regulator of neuronal function. We previously reported that ischemic stroke induces m
6
A hypermethylation with a simultaneous decrease in FTO expression in neurons. Currently, we evaluated the functional significance of restoring FTO with an adeno-associated virus 9, and thus reducing m
6
A methylation in poststroke brain damage.

Methods:

Adult male and female C57BL/6J mice were injected with FTO adeno-associated virus 9 (intracerebral) at 21 days prior to inducing transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Poststroke brain damage (infarction, atrophy, and white matter integrity) and neurobehavioral deficits (motor function, cognition, depression, and anxiety-like behaviors) were evaluated between days 1 and 28 of reperfusion.

Results:

FTO overexpression significantly decreased the poststroke m
6
A hypermethylation. More importantly, exogenous FTO substantially decreased poststroke gray and white matter damage and improved motor function recovery, cognition, and depression-like behavior in both sexes.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate that FTO-dependent m
6
A demethylation minimizes long-term sequelae of stroke independent of sex.
Working Memory Is Complex and Dynamic, Like Your Thoughts
Authors: Buschman Timothy J. , Miller Earl K.
Published: November 2022

Working memory is where thoughts are held and manipulated. For many years, the dominant model was that working memory relied on steady-state neural dynamics. A neural representation was activated and then held in that state. However, as often happens, the more we examine working memory (especially with new technology), the more complex it looks. Recent discoveries show that working memory involves multiple mechanisms, including discontinuous bouts of spiking. Memories are also dynamic, evolving in a task-dependent manner. Cortical rhythms may control those dynamics, thereby endowing top–down “executive” control over our thoughts.
What is the Problem Represented to be in the Group of Four’s Policy on Reform of the United Nations Security Council? – An Argument for Clarity Towards the Global South
Authors: Winther Bjarke Zinck
Published: November 2022

This article applies a critical policy analysis to the United Nations Security Council (unsc) reform policy from the Group of Four (G4), to suggest ways for the G4 to clarify its policy’s impact and opportunities for Global South countries. The coalition comprises Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan. Based on an analysis of a dataset that includes official reform proposals, press statements, meetings statements, meetings notes, and interviews with key actors, the article concludes with five policy directions that can make the G4’s reform policy clear, transparent, and subsequently successful in terms of the necessary appeal and ensuing support from Global South countries. The article relies on a conceptual and methodological differentiation between how the absent unsc reform problem is presented and represented, respectively. A focus on the representation, which mainly refers to the policy’s subtle and implicit strategies and consequences, allows for the following overall contributions to unsc reform studies. First, I point out how the policy promotes and opposes democracy, equality, and increased Global South influence. Second, the analysis guides the G4 strategy and unsc reform strategies, at large, towards emphases on the African Union’s reform position.
All Are Not Equal: Taiwanese Public Opinion on Southeast Asian Immigration
Authors: Rich Timothy S. , Eliassen Isabel , Einhorn Madelynn , Dahmer Andi , Chien Yi-Chun
Published: November 2022

What influences Taiwanese public opinion on immigration? Taiwan faces the same immigration challenges as many other developed nations, where the demand for immigrant workers produces a domestic backlash. Our study addresses to what extent public opinions on immigration are influenced by two factors: the skills of immigrants and their place of origin. Our results show, besides the preference for skilled labour, that public opinion on the three Southeast Asian immigrant groups varies considerably, with the strongest negative reaction to Indonesian migrants. As Taiwan prides its progress on human rights among East Asian democracies, the results suggest the need for targeted policy efforts to overcome public biases towards Southeast Asian immigrants.
Tropical Cyclone Potential Size
Authors: Wang Danyang , Lin Yanluan , Chavas Daniel R.
Published: November 2022

A model for tropical cyclone (TC) potential size (PS), which is capable of predicting the equilibrium outer radius of a TC solely from environmental parameters, is proposed. The model combines an updated Carnot cycle model with a physical model for the wind profile, which serve as energetic and dynamic constraints, respectively, on the minimum pressure. Physically, the Carnot cycle model defines how much the surface pressure can be dropped energetically, and the wind profile model defines how large the steady-state storm needs to be to yield that pressure drop for a given maximum wind speed. The model yields an intrinsic length scale VCarnot/f, with f the Coriolis parameter, VCarnot similar to the potential intensity Vp, but without a dependence on the surface exchange coefficients of enthalpy Ck and momentum Cd. Analytic tests with the theory varying outflow temperature, sea surface temperature (SST), and f demonstrate that the model predictions are qualitatively consistent with the Vp/f scaling for outer size found in past work. The model also predicts a weak dependence of outer size on Cd, Ck, and horizontal mixing length lh of turbulence, consistent with numerical simulation results. Idealized numerical simulation experiments with varied tropopause temperature, SST, f, Cd, Ck, and lh show that the model performs well in predicting the simulated outer radius. The VCarnot/f scaling also better captures the dependence of simulated TC size on SST than Vp/f. Overall, the model appears to capture the essential physics that determine equilibrium TC size on the f plane.
A Bispectral Approach for Destriping and Denoising the Sea Surface Temperature from SGLI Thermal Infrared Data
Authors: Kurihara Yukio
Published: November 2022

Stripe noise is a common issue in sea surface temperatures (SSTs) retrieved from thermal infrared data obtained by satellite-based multidetector radiometers. We developed a bispectral filter (BSF) to reduce the stripe noise. The BSF is a Gaussian filter and an optimal estimation method for the differences between the data obtained at the split window. A kernel function based on the physical processes of radiative transfer has made it possible to reduce stripe and random noise in retrieved SSTs without degrading the spatial resolution or generating bias. The Second-Generation Global Imager (SGLI) is an optical sensor on board the Global Change Observation Mission–Climate (GCOM-C) satellite. We applied the BSF to SGLI data and validated the retrieved SSTs. The validation results demonstrate the effectiveness of BSF, which reduced stripe noise in the retrieved SGLI SSTs without blurring SST fronts. It also improved the accuracy of the SSTs by about 0.04 K (about 13%) in the robust standard deviation.

Significance Statement

This method reduces stripe noise and improves the accuracy of SST data with minimal compromise of spatial resolution. The method assumes the relationship between the brightness temperature and the brightness temperature difference in the split window based on the physical background of atmospheric radiative transfer. The physical background of the data provides an easy solution to a complex problem. Although destriping generally requires a complex algorithm, our approach is based on a simple Gaussian filter and is easy to implement.
Syncretism of Tradition and Modernity in Education: A Case Study of a Tibetan Vocational School in Qinghai
Authors: Jikar Rouzhuo (Rigdrol)
Published: November 2022

The notion of educational development has merit in defining the nature of Tibetan school education in China, which operates under the Chinese centralized educational model. However, it would be simplistic to see all types of schools in Tibetan regions operating in a single dependency relationship regarding the educational content, teaching mode, and school management. Consequently, the author proposes considering the more complex situation of a syncretism of Tibetan and Chinese education systems. His proposition derives from his long-time participation, observation, and extensive interviews with school teachers, students, and administrators in a Tibetan private vocational high school in Amdo (Qinghai). This school has pioneered experimentation with a syncretic education model to resolve the tension and seek a balance between cultural continuity and social change by capitalizing on its interdependency situation. His research shows that promoting this syncretic education model in a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural country like China is worthwhile.
Dependency as Situated Knowledge: A Reflexive Politics of Location on the Positionalities of Chinese Feminist Scholars
Authors: Han Ling
Published: November 2022

While feminist knowledge has historical roots in China, the academic knowledge production about women’s and gender studies (WGS) as situated knowledge has always been a contestation between opposing forces. The Fourth United Nations World Conference on Women, held in Beijing in 1995, marked the critical discursive and organizational moment for grounding the feminist concept of gender as an analytical and action framework. Since then, WGS have flourished, but the label of feminism has been ambivalent. To examine the complicated state of academic dependency and the politics of location in this interdisciplinary academic field, I interrogate researchers’ positionalities in some recent publications on feminism and gender studies about China by pointing out the interplay of diasporic and domestic positionalities in English and Chinese publication outlets. This article argues that for an interdisciplinary program like WGS, with its inextricable connection to the political state of China and socialist state feminism, the theory of academic dependency cannot adequately capture the often contested, strategic, and situated standpoints of feminist scholars. While diasporic and domestic scholars are deeply aware of their own positionalities in the channel of publications that grant them voices, they are also caught in the current hegemonic political economy of knowledge. This article interrogates the contested positionalities of overseas and domestic feminist scholars in creating a feminist academic field about China.
Seeing Like a Native Anthropologist: A Post-Postcolonial Reflection on the Native Turn in Asian Academia
Authors: Tenzin Jinba
Published: November 2022

This article aims to delve into the “native turn” emerging in anthropology and broad academia in Asia and the Global South in the last two decades, represented by their growing momentum in decolonization, autonomy, and “indigenization.” There, however, exists a tendency in anthropology, especially among non-Western and “mixed” anthropologists, to dismiss the idea of native(s) or native anthropologists and sometimes replace it with the amorphous notion of “halfies.” I contend that many of the “halfies” scholars, informed by postcolonial and postmodern thoughts, tend to misread the de facto postcolonial conditions in which the West continues to dominate in the existing world-systems. I argue that it is vital to acknowledge the native turn as an ethnographical fact because this recognition is closely associated with the prospect of decolonizing anthropology and Western-dominated knowledge production. Next, I use my experience of the native turn(s) to Tibetan and Chinese sociocultural institutions and political sensibilities to better contextualize and exemplify the examined broad native turn in anthropology and social science in Asia. Furthermore, I propose a multifaceted view of natives or nativeness as a necessary step to engage more constructively with the idea of native(s) and the native turn. In so doing, I advocate a post-postcolonial critique to make a timely and necessary intellectual intervention.
Estimation of Subjectively Reported Trust, Mental Workload, and Situation Awareness Using Unobtrusive Measures
Authors: Kintz Jacob R. , Banerjee Neil T. , Zhang Johnny Y. , Anderson Allison P. , Clark Torin K.
Published: November 2022

Objective

We use a set of unobtrusive measures to estimate subjectively reported trust, mental workload, and situation awareness (henceforth “TWSA”).

Background

Subjective questionnaires are commonly used to assess human cognitive states. However, they are obtrusive and usually impractical to administer during operations. Measures derived from actions operators take while working (which we call “embedded measures”) have been proposed as an unobtrusive way to obtain TWSA estimates. Embedded measures have not been systematically investigated for each of TWSA, which prevents their operational utility.

Methods

Fifteen participants completed twelve trials of spaceflight-relevant tasks while using a simulated autonomous system. Embedded measures of TWSA were obtained during each trial and participants completed TWSA questionnaires after each trial. Statistical models incorporating our embedded measures were fit with various formulations, interaction effects, and levels of personalization to understand their benefits and improve model accuracy.

Results

The stepwise algorithm for building statistical models usually included embedded measures, which frequently corresponded to an intuitive increase or decrease in reported TWSA. Embedded measures alone could not accurately capture an operator’s cognitive state, but combining the measures with readily observable task information or information about participants’ backgrounds enabled the models to achieve good descriptive fit and accurate prediction of TWSA.

Conclusion

Statistical models leveraging embedded measures of TWSA can be used to accurately estimate responses on subjective questionnaires that measure TWSA.

Application

Our systematic approach to investigating embedded measures and fitting models allows for cognitive state estimation without disrupting tasks when administering questionnaires would be impractical.
Counting Tents: Pedagogical Reflections on Faculty–Student Collaboration in a Real-World Project on Homelessness
Authors: Snedker Karen A. , Fredriks Andria , Nye Emily
Published: November 2022

This teaching note describes the design and implementation of an undergraduate research team project to conduct a tent census. Previous studies highlight the importance of real-world research as a part of sociology curriculum. Tents, as a visible sign of homelessness, represent one such contemporary social problem. Our undergraduate research team documented and geolocated tents in the city of Seattle between 2019 and 2020. This project integrated elements of active learning, collaborative learning, and problem-based learning. The strengths of our student research team were experiential learning, greater awareness and engagement in homelessness, and development of research and problem-solving skills. We offer some generalizable “lessons learned” from our assessment of the successes and challenges of a unique tent census project for student learning and engagement. This article concludes with the challenges of these kinds of real-world projects as well as recommendations for future faculty–student collaborations on important sociological issues.
Posterior Horn Lateral Meniscal Oblique Radial Tear in Acute Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Incidence and Outcomes After All-Inside Repair: Clinical and Second-Look Arthroscopic Evaluation
Authors: Jeon Young-Sik , Alsomali Khalid , Yang Seong Wook , Lee Oei Jong , Kang Byoungyoul , Wang Joon Ho
Published: November 2022

Background:

The term posterior horn lateral meniscal oblique radial tear (LMORT) has emerged to characterize the tear patterns of the lateral meniscus in many patients with acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. There is a lack of data regarding the exact incidence according to the types of LMORT and clinical outcomes.

Purposes:

(1) To investigate the incidence of LMORT according to type in patients with acute ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and (2) to identify healing status after repair of LMORT via second-look arthroscopy and clinical outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence: 4.

Methods:

Patients who underwent primary ACLR within 6 months of injury were retrospectively reviewed. The LMORT was classified into 4 types based on the severity and distance from the root: type 1 (partial tear <10 mm from the root), type 2 (complete tear <10 mm from the root), type 3 (partial tear >10 mm from the root), type 4a (complete tear >10 mm from the root), and type 4b (type 4a with longitudinal tear at the meniscocapsular junction). Only patients with LMORT were isolated, and the clinical outcomes were compared according to the healing status of LMORT in second-look arthroscopy.

Results:

Of 635 patients with ACLR, LMORT was identified in 97 patients (15.3%), and type 4 LMORT accounted for the largest proportion (n = 62; 32.6%) of 190 lateral meniscal tears. In 79 patients with LMORT who satisfied the 2-year follow-up period, all patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including the Lysholm (preoperative, 64.1; postoperative, 88.2) and International Knee Documentation Committee subjective (preoperative, 50.5; postoperative, 82.9) scores, were significantly improved ( P < .001) 31.8 months postoperatively. Of the 61 patients who underwent second-look arthroscopy, 49 (80.3%) were classified into the complete healing group. There was no significant difference in postoperative PROs between the complete and partial healing groups.

Conclusion:

The incidence of LMORT was 15.3% in patients with acute ACL injury, and type 4 LMORT was the most common type. Complete healing of LMORT was achieved in 80.3% of patients who underwent second-look arthroscopy, and the PROs were significantly improved postoperatively. Good clinical results can be achieved if the LMORT is repaired as much as possible during ACLR.
Mechanical properties of composites manufactured from low twist hybrid yarns made of discontinuous carbon and polyamide 6 fibres
Authors: Abdkader Anwar , Hasan Mir Mohammad Badrul , Bachor Samuel , Cherif Chokri
Published: November 2022

Composites based on e.g. randomly oriented nonwovens and injection moulded structures from discontinuous carbon fibre (CF), which are processed industrially exhibit low tensile strengths of 200–300 MPa and 400 MPa, respectively. In contrast, composites based on twisted hybrid yarns from discontinuous CF and thermoplastic fibre show higher tensile strengths such as 1150 MPa. Reasons are improved fibre orientation and higher fibre volume content. However, tensile strength is still lower than that of uni-directional carbon fibre reinforced composites (CFRP) based on continuous filament yarn, which is around 1560 MPa. The reason is a low fibre orientation due to yarn twisting and high fibre shortening, which occurs throughout the yarn manufacturing process. As mechanical properties of composites largely depend on fibre orientation and length, there is a high potential to achieve higher mechanical properties in CFRP by ensuring gentle processing of CF and reducing yarn twist. However, due to brittleness and smooth surface of CF, spinning of yarns with low twist (<60 T/m (twist per meter)) is challenging. In order to exhaust the potential of hybrid yarns, a semi-industrial process chain to produce hybrid yarns while ensuring gentle processing of discontinuous CF (fibre length 100 mm) and polyamide 6 fibres (fibre length 80 mm) at significantly low level of twist 20 T/m is reported in this paper. Carbon fibre reinforced composite manufactured from these hybrid yarns show high tensile strength (1453 ± 27 MPa), Young’s modulus (94 ± 6 GPa), flexural strength (1090 ± 41 MPa) and flexural modulus (98 ± 5 GPa).
Factors Associated With PIM use in the Frail Elderly: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tranhago Camilla da P. , Colatto Luana L. , Fernandes Brígida D. , Teixeira Alexandra S. do C. , Baldoni André de O. , Ayres Lorena R. , Bem Daniela A. M. G. do
Published: November 2022

Background: The use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) by the elderly is commonly studied, but studies evaluating the use of PIM by frail elderly covered by prepaid health plans are still lacking. Objective: To identify the prevalence of use and the factors associated with the use of PIM by the elderly patients with high and moderate risk of clinical-functional vulnerability, according to the Beers criteria 2019. Methods: A cross-sectional study was developed with elderly people from a private health plan in Vitória-ES, Brazil. Socioeconomic, demographic and clinical data were collected through a digital platform and a structured questionnaire through an interview, from October 2018 to June 2019. The association between the use of PIM and independent variables was verified by univariate logistic regression with their respective confidence intervals (CI) 95%. The Multiple Model included the variables with P ≤ .20. Results: 332 elderly patients were interviewed (mean age 81.5 years, gender 237 female, 95 male). A 65% prevalence of PIM use was identified. In the multiple logistic regression model, the variables associated with the use of PIM were self-medication ( P = .004), high risk of clinical-functional vulnerability ( P = .022), use of psychotropic medications ( P = .000001), musculoskeletal medications ( P = .04) and alimentary tract medications ( P = .03). Physical exercises were considered a protection factor ( P = .02). Conclusion: The high prevalence of PIM use indicates the need for improvement in elderly private health care, to increase pharmacotherapy safety for this population.
Effect of welding parameters on bead characteristics and mechanical properties of wire and arc additive manufactured inconel 718
Authors: Kumar Parveen , Singh Ratnesh Kumar Raj , Sharma Satish Kumar
Published: November 2022

In this study, a bi-directional, low-cost, gas metal arc welding (GMAW) based wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) setup is used to deposit aerospace-grade super-alloy IN718. The orthogonally designed experiments are carried out to optimize process parameters for bead geometry characteristics. Study result shows that with an increase in heat input, the bead parameters like bead width, reinforcement, dilution, penetration, and weld form factor are increasing, while it has a detrimental effect on weld shape factor and wetting angle. Microstructural examination reveals that at high heat input, coarser grain structure having average grain size of 72.29 µm is obtained while at low heat input, a finer grain structure with average grain size of 32.12 µm along with smaller amount of Laves phases are present. The XRD reveals NbC and TiC phases present in case of low heat input sample which enhances the mechanical properties of deposited material. The multilayer wall structures fabricated at high heat input showed more uniformity in shape with lesser waviness than that fabricated with low heat input. The tensile result of low heat input sample (775.82 MPa) shows higher strength than high heat input sample (741.07 MPa) which is because of smaller grain structure and higher hardness (278.11 HV) as obtained in low heat input sample as compared to high heat input sample (257.26 HV). The EBSD analysis also confirms highly textured surface, more grain boundary lengths and larger grain boundary orientation in low heat input sample imparted better mechanical properties.
Relationship between styrene exposure and prolactin secretion in human and animal studies: A systematic review
Authors: Sadighara P , Abedini A , Zirak M-R , Salehi A , Darbandi Azar S , Mirzaei G , Vakili Saatloo N
Published: November 2022

Styrene is widely used in industrial applications. Inhalation exposure occurs in the industry. Some studies indicated that serum prolactin concentrations increased after exposure to styrene, while other studies found no change. In this systematic review, the search was done with the keywords styrene and prolactin in the PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science and Scopus databases, regardless of the publication period. 118 studies were obtained and only seven articles were finally selected according to exclusion and inclusion criteria. The effect of styrene on prolactin secretion was selected in both human and animal studies. The increased response was seen in inhalation exposures. Subcutaneous exposure has no significant effect on prolactin levels. The observed responses were both dose-dependent and gender-dependent. Changes in serum prolactin were more frequent in women compared to exposed men. Dopamine depletion was not observed in all studies, so more tests on laboratory animals are necessary to clarify the possible mechanism.
“We Experience What They Experience”: Black Nurses’ and Community Health Workers’ Reflections on Providing Culturally Specific Perinatal Health Care
Authors: Hunte Roberta , Mehrotra Gita R. , Klawetter Susanne
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

Black perinatal health workers are part of a tradition of Black people fighting for the well-being of Black communities. The purpose of this article is to better understand the unique experiences of these professionals.

Method:

Descriptive qualitative research was used to understand Black providers’ experiences in a culturally specific perinatal public health program. A focus group was conducted with seven nurses and community health workers, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results:

Three themes emerged: (a) shared lived experience and parallel process between staff and clients; (b) navigating multiple shifting gazes between clients, public health department, and medical systems; and (c) reproductive justice and community care characterize a culturally informed approach.

Discussion:

Findings revealed strengths and complexities facing Black nurses and community health workers in their roles. More work is needed in education, practice, and research to better prepare and support nurses and community health workers in culturally specific settings.
Shedding Light on Team Adaptation: Does Experience Matter?
Authors: Georganta Eleni , Stracke Selina , Brodbeck Felix , Knipfer Kristin , Shawn Burke C.
Published: November 2022

Investigating the team adaptation process in two laboratory experiments ( N = 144 teams, n = 504 participants), we found no benefits for teams with team adaptation experience (vs. without) nor for teams with external team adaptation experience (vs. with internal experience). Collective experience under routine and nonroutine conditions seems to provide teams with the resources to adapt. We further found that executing the team adaptation process did not always lead to high team performance; different team performance requirements might explain these findings. We discuss how our experimental findings can extend our understanding of team adaptation toward new boundary conditions.
Biomechanical Comparison of a Novel 3-Screw Fixation vs Conventional 2-Screw Fixation of Calcaneal Tuberosity Avulsion Fractures
Authors: Hong Choon Chiet , Tan Jun-Hao , Ramruttun Amit Kumarsing , Pearce Christopher Jon
Published: November 2022

Background:

Calcaneal tuberosity avulsion fractures are challenging to treat because of the poor bone stock and high risk of fixation failure secondary to the strong Achilles tendon pull. The purpose of this study is to compare the tensile force to failure of 2 different types of screw fixation construct in a cadaveric model of calcaneal tuberosity avulsion fracture.

Methods:

An oblique osteotomy was created in the calcanei of 7 matched pairs of cadaveric specimens to simulate a tuberosity avulsion fracture and one specimen from each pair randomized into one of the 2 groups for comparison. Two cancellous screws were inserted perpendicular to the fracture line at the posteromedial and posterolateral corners of the avulsed fragment for the 2-screw construct. For the second group, an additional stab incision was made at the midline of the Achilles insertional region for a screw placed between the initial 2 screws with a trajectory toward the calcaneocuboid joint in the 3-screw construct. These specimens were then mounted and loaded to failure.

Results:

The mean force to a predefined failure at 3.0-mm gap for the 3-screw construct was 468.7 ± 267.9 N vs 278.9 ± 164.0 N for the 2-screw construct ( P < .001). The addition of a central nonparallel screw in the 3-screw construct significantly increased the force required for fracture gap displacement at all cut-off points (1.0-8.0 mm) when compared to the 2-screw construct ( P < .001). Notably, the mean peak tensile force for the 3-screw construct was 499.4 ± 255.4 N occurred at the gap displacement of 4.1 mm for the 3-screw construct whereas the mean peak tensile force for the 2-screw construct was 315.9 ± 162.4 N displacing the gap at 4.3 mm.

Conclusion:

This study showed that an additional central nonparallel screw in the 3-screw construct provided significant mechanical superiority compared to a 2-screw construct.

Clinical Relevance:

The present study supported the use of augmented fixation with an additional central off-axis screw to reduce risk of fixation failure in calcaneal tuberosity avulsion fractures.
How effective is task-based language teaching to enhance second language learning? A technical comment on Bryfonski and McKay (2019)
Authors: Xuan Qianying , Cheung Alan , Liu Jinhong
Published: November 2022

This commentary focuses on three methodological concerns regarding Bryfonski and McKay’s (2019) meta-analysis of existing works on the effectiveness of task-based language teaching (TBLT). These are (1) loose inclusion criteria, (2) oversimplified outcome effect size calculation, and (3) neglect of influence of moderators. To rectify these issues, we conducted a new meta-analysis to build on the strengths of their work while correcting some flaws by aiming to afford more rigorous and valid insights for education practitioners, researchers, and decision makers. While Bryfonski and McKay (BM) reported a strong positive effect ( d = 0.93), our results point to a more modest effect of TBLT on second language achievement ( g = 0.61). Different from BM’s claimed four moderators of the main effect (i.e. program region, institution type, needs analysis, and cycles of implementation), our meta-regression results indicate that only sample size and teacher-as-researcher suffice to account for the heterogeneity of the effect sizes. Given the reduced number of acceptable primary studies, our revised results should be interpreted with caution.
Blogging through dementia: Reworking mainstream discourse through metaphor in online early-onset dementia narratives
Authors: Castaño Emilia
Published: November 2022

Background

The depiction of dementia in public discourse tends to operate on two levels: the tragedy discourse or the living well with dementia discourse, where metaphors play a decisive role in the characterization of the condition and the voice of those living with the condition is usually underrepresented.

Purpose

This article analyzes whether and how mainstream discourse on dementia is reworked in first-person accounts of the disease online and explores the attitudes and assumptions about dementia that illness blogs reflect and defy.

Study design

Drawing on Conceptual Metaphor Theory, the article analyzes a corpus of 10 blogs (622 posts) written by individuals living with early-onset dementia to identify the metaphors used to depict dementia, its impact on the self and its social and relational aspects. Metaphor identification was based on the PRAGGLEJAZ metaphor identification procedure.

Results

The study demonstrates that across blogs no single metaphor alone is capable of capturing the complexity of the dementia experience; instead multiple metaphors are deployed to provide a characterization of the multiple faces of this condition. In this way blogs transcend and reshape the reductionist view of dementia that emerges from the either/or dichotomy of the tragedy versus living well with dementia discourses that dominate in media representations. By reshaping some of the metaphors used in mainstream discourse and introducing new ones, blog narratives draw attention to the complex nature of the experience of dementia, acknowledging both the suffering and social and functional losses that the condition brings, while also claiming recognition for personhood, agency, validation, and the aspiration to grow beyond the diagnosis and live a valued life as part of a family and community.

Conclusions

Overall, this study demonstrates that metaphor is a useful tool for providing insights into people’s experience of dementia and that blogs are a platform where stereotypes may be defied and mainstream representations of dementia reworked offering a more holistic view of the condition and granting narrative agency to those who live with dementia.