bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Roles of Romantic Beliefs and Imagined Interaction in Unrequited Love
Authors: Hu Mu , Zhang Bingqing , Shen Yinghe , Guo Jing , Wang Shuwen
Published: April 2022

The present study examined the roles of people's romantic beliefs and imagined interactions in unrequited love. Two hundred and twenty five Chinese college students participated in a survey study. More idealized romantic beliefs were associated with stronger unrequited love. Men's unrequited love was stronger than women's. Would-be lovers who had imagined interactions with beloved ones had stronger unrequited love in contrast to those who didn’t. Unrequited love and romantic beliefs were both positively related to the imagined interaction attributes of frequency and valence and the functions of compensation and relationship maintenance. Frequency of imagined interactions positively mediated the relationship between romantic beliefs and unrequited love.
The time of post-socialism: On the future of an anthropological concept
Authors: Ringel Felix
Published: April 2022

When accounting for changes in the post-socialist era, anthropologists were forced to carefully distinguish between what had remained the same, what had actually changed and what was emerging anew and on its own terms. As a sub-discipline, the anthropology of post-socialism has thereby contributed prominently to theories of time, change and temporal agency. It has also shown that the post-socialist present is, if at all, as determined by its socialist past as it is by its insecure futures. Based on a few ethnographic examples from a former socialist model city in East Germany, and my own experiences as both a post-socialist anthropologist and an anthropologist of post-socialism, I scrutinize the temporal logic of the sub-discipline’s defining concept. I do so by testing its applicability to three objects of anthropological inquiry, and by pondering upon its implications for a more sustained study of the future. The temporal multiplicity that this concept affords, I claim, is crucial for the discipline overall, but demands further scrutiny. Rather than abandoning it, as I and others have previously argued, it is time to rewrite the time of post-socialism with regards to the future.
The anthropology of post-socialism: Theoretical legacies and conceptual futures – An introduction
Authors: Gallinat Anselma
Published: April 2022

An introduction to the special issue ‘The anthropology of postsocialism: Theoretical legacies and conceptual futures'.
Distalization of the Tibial Tubercle for Patellar Stabilization Combined With Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: Length of Distalization or Residual Patella Alta and its Affect on Outcome
Authors: Schmiesing Andrew , Engelking Marta , Agel Julie , Arendt Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Previous research supports that distal translation of the tibial tubercle osteotomy (dTTO) for patients with recurrent lateral patellar dislocation (R-LPD) and patella alta is effective for surgical patellar stabilization.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The main purpose of this article is to evaluate (1) the results of modifying the surgical threshold and postoperative goal of patellar height measurements for surgical stabilization originated in the “menu à la carte” approach to patellar surgical stabilization and (2) the relationship between the distance distalized in millimeters and postoperative complications. Our hypothesis was that dTTO with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFL-R) will successfully stabilize the patella with improvement in outcome scores and few complications, using a modification of the original menu à la carte as our surgical algorithm.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 68 consecutive patients with R-LPD underwent dTTO and MPFL-R for surgical patellar stabilization by a single surgeon between May 2009 and September 2015. Surgical indications were R-LPD combined with patella alta. The surgical threshold for dTTO was Caton-Deschamps index (CDI) or Insall-Salvati ratio ≥1.4 and/or a patellar trochlear index <0.15. The postoperative surgical goal for patellar height was a CDI of 1.1 to 1.2. Length of the distalization was computed by using the CDI measurement as the primary intraoperative guide and measured intraoperatively with a ruler. Clinical, radiographic, and patient outcome measures were reviewed.

Results:

The mean CDI preoperatively was 1.40 and postoperatively it was 1.09. The mean distalization was 9.9 mm (range, 4-15 mm). Three patients (4.4%) had frank R-LPD postoperatively. Ten patients had residual patella alta (CDI >1.2), with 1 redislocation. Mean postoperative CDI in the recurrent dislocation group was 1.13 (range, 1.06-1.25) as compared with 1.09 (range, 0.92-1.35) in the nonrecurrent group ( P = 0.65). Complications included 3 tibial fractures (4.4%) and postoperative knee arthrofibrosis in 6 patients (8.8%), with mean distalization greater in the arthrofibrosis group ( P = .04). Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) values improved in all domains, including a 31–point increase in Quality of Life.

Conclusion:

dTTO with MPFL-R for patients with patella alta leads to a high rate of normalization of patellar height measurements (87%) and patellar stabilization (95.6%). Residual patella alta is not associated with an increased risk of recurrence. The length of dTTO up to 15 mm is not associated with an increase in postoperative complications, except for an increased prevalence of arthrofibrosis (8.8%).
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing a Patella-Stabilizing, Motion-Restricting Knee Brace Versus a Neoprene Nonhinged Knee Brace After a First-Time Traumatic Patellar Dislocation
Authors: Honkonen Essi E. , Sillanpää Petri J. , Reito Aleksi , Mäenpää Heikki , Mattila Ville M.
Published: April 2022

Background:

A traumatic lateral patellar dislocation is a common injury in adolescents and young adults. The majority of first–time dislocations can be treated nonoperatively. Various types of knee braces are used for nonoperative treatment, but evidence on the most preferable bracing method is lacking.

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of a patella–stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace versus a neoprene nonhinged knee brace for the treatment of a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation at 3 years of follow–up.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 101 skeletally mature patients with a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation were enrolled in the study. After exclusion criteria were applied, 79 patients with a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation were randomized and allocated into 2 study groups: group A, with a patella–stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace (hinged to allow knee range of motion [ROM] of 0°-30°) and group B, with a neoprene nonhinged knee brace (not restricting any knee motion). Both groups received similar physical therapy instructions and were advised to use the brace continuously for 4 weeks. Overall, 64 patients completed the trial.

Results:

The redislocation rate in group A was 34.4% (11/32) and in group B it was 37.5% (12/32) (risk difference, –3.1% [95% CI, –26.6% to 20.3%]; P = .794). Patients in group A had less knee ROM than those in group B at 4 weeks (90° vs 115°, respectively; P < .001) and 3 months (125° vs 133°, respectively; P = .028). Patients in group A had more quadriceps muscle atrophy than patients in group B at 4 weeks (24/32 vs 16/32, respectively; P = .048) and 3 months. At 6 months, patients in group B reported better functional outcomes than patients in group A (Kujala score mean difference, 4.6; P = .012), although no clinically relevant difference was found at 3 years.

Conclusion:

The use of a patella–stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace for 4 weeks after a first–time traumatic patellar dislocation did not result in a statistically significant reduction in redislocations versus a neoprene nonhinged knee brace, although this trial was underpowered to detect more modest differences. Knee immobilization was associated with quadriceps muscle atrophy, less knee ROM, and worse functional outcomes in the first 6 months after the injury.

Registration:

NCT01344915 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
A Cavitary Lesion in a Patient with Antineutrophilic Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Associated Vasculitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Lakhdar Sofia , Nassar Mahmoud , Shatabdi Shabnam , Buttar Chandan , Abrudescu Adriana , Trandafirescu Theo
Published: April 2022

Patients with antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) associated vasculitis who were on immunosuppressive therapy with corticosteroids may be susceptible to cavitary lesions. 1 Only a few cases have been reported in the literature to date. Immunosuppression was shown to improve prognosis in patients with vasculitis. However, adverse therapy events and the risk of opportunistic infections become a major cause of morbidity and mortality in this specific patient population. We present a case of a 75-year-old female who was diagnosed and treated in our hospital for ANCA-associated vasculitis and returned within a few weeks of medical therapy and was found to have developed cavitation concerning for worsening vasculitis or an opportunistic fungal infection or combination of both. Given the risk of severe complications from opportunistic fungal infections, close monitoring and prophylactic antifungal therapy should be considered. Further studies are needed to evaluate the benefit of prophylaxis in this patient population.
Integrating the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide Into the Relations Between Cyber-Victimization and Suicidality Among Adolescents: A Short-Term Prospective Study
Authors: Meng Fanchen , Zhu Xinxin , Gao Qianqian , Li Xiang , Chen Jing , Sa Qieer
Published: April 2022

The relation between cyber-victimization and suicidality among adolescents has been well documented; however, the mechanisms underlying this association have not been well investigated. Drawing upon the interpersonal theory of suicide, this study aimed to examine the mediating mechanisms (i.e., thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness) underlying longitudinal, bidirectional relations between cyber-victimization and suicidal ideation/attempts among adolescents and explore gender differences in the mechanisms. Participants were 497 Chinese adolescents (46.1% male; M age = 13.28, SD = .66), who completed the assessment of cyber-victimization, thwarted belongingness, and perceived burdensomeness, suicidal ideation/attempts at three-time points. The time interval between each two assessments is two weeks. Results showed the reciprocal relations between cyber-victimization and thwarted belongingness/perceived burdensomeness, between thwarted belongingness and suicidal ideation/suicide attempts, and between perceived burdensomeness and suicide attempts. Longitudinal mediation analyses indicated that Time 2 thwarted belongingness mediated the relation between Time 1 cyber-victimization and Time 3 suicidal ideation/suicide attempts. Besides, the reverse pathway from Time 1 suicidal ideation to Time 3 cyber-victimization was also mediated by Time 2 thwarted belongingness, but it was only significant in females, as suggested by multiple-group analyses. According to the aforementioned results, the interpersonal theory of suicide provides a useful framework for understanding relations between cyber-victimization and suicidality. Findings suggest that intervention targeted at improving the need to belong may help reduce suicide risk and lower cyber-victimization. Anti-cyber-victimization should be integrated into suicide intervention and prevention programs, and gender differences should be taken into account in order to enhance the program’s effectiveness.
Examining the Impact of Different Components of Sleep Quality on Anxiety Among Family Carers of People with Dementia
Authors: Van Hout Elien , Contreras Milena , Mioshi Eneida , Kishita Naoko
Published: April 2022

Existing interventions for family carers of people with dementia tend to be less effective for anxiety than for depression. Therefore, identifying factors affecting carer anxiety is important to inform future interventions. This study conducted 2 multiple regression analyses using a sample of 91 family carers. The first regression model ( ∆R 2 = .24), exploring the impact of demographic variables and carer stressors, demonstrated that hours of caring ( β = .33) and overall sleep quality ( β = .28) were significant predictors of anxiety. To further investigate the impact of sleep quality, the second model ( ∆R 2 = .24) focussed on exploring the differential impact of various components of sleep quality on anxiety. Findings demonstrated that subjective sleep quality ( β = .33) and sleep disturbances ( β = .22) were significant predictors. Hours of caring per week, subjective sleep quality and sleep disturbances seem to be critical for treating anxiety in family carers. Future studies should investigate whether targeting these variables could improve carer anxiety.
Effect of printing characteristics for the incorporation of hexagonal-shaped lattice structure on the PLA polymeric material
Authors: Palaniyappan Sabarinathan , Veeman Dhinakaran , Narain Kumar S , Surendhar G J , Natrayan L
Published: April 2022

Additive manufacturing is an emerging technique for manufacturing 3-D objects from the design of the component. Lattice structures are incorporated in metal and polymeric materials and find various applications in aerospace, marine, and other engineering fields. The present research work concentrates on incorporating hexagonal-shaped lattice structures through the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique. The optimization was carried out by varying the printing process parameters such as infill density (80%, 90%, and 100%), layer thickness (0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, and 0.3 mm), and printing temperature (195°C, 205°C, and 215°C). The impact of printing parameters with respect to the quality characteristics responses such as tensile strength/density and dimensional area error can be considered for the optimization process. The samples are prepared using an L9 orthogonal array, and the process condition was optimized using the Taguchi optimization technique. The tensile strength/density is observed to be higher at a lower infill density of about 80%, a minimum layer height of 0.1 mm, and a maximum extrusion temperature of 215°C. From the ANOVA analysis results, the influential parameters sequence for the tensile strength/density was infill density > layer thickness > printing temperature. And the sequence of effective parameters for obtaining the lowest dimensional area error was infill density > printing temperature > layer thickness. Therefore, this research has found the application for incorporating hexagonal-shaped lattice structure in the PLA material. The material is capable of structural applications in automotive and marine applications, etc.
A vision for a lightweight railway wheelset of the future
Authors: Bruni Stefano , Mistry Preetum J , Johnson Michael S , Bernasconi Andrea , Carboni Michele , Formaggioni Davide , Carra Guido , Macchiavello Sergio , Ferrante Edoardo , Kaiser Ingo , Viñolas Jordi , Marazzi Irene
Published: April 2022

Rail vehicle lightweighting using fibre reinforced polymer composite materials is essential for the future of rail. This is recognised as a means of reducing carbon dioxide production through lower energy consumption, as well as reducing the impact on track degradation, thus delivering improved rail capacity and performance. This paper presents an overview of the work conducted within work package three of the NEXTGEAR project focused on the ‘wheelset of the future’. Three concepts for a hybrid metallic-composite railway axle are proposed and their strengths and weaknesses are assessed. A finite element analysis on the selected concept was conducted, including a solution for the bonded joints of the metallic collars which provide the interface to the wheels and bearings. An axle mass reduction of over 63% was shown. An overview is also provided regarding the analysis of manufacturability of the axle, non-destructive methods for axle inspection/structural health monitoring and effects of impacts from ballast stones. Finally, a preliminary evaluation of the benefits arising from the reduction of the unsprung masses is provided, based on multibody simulations of vehicle dynamics.
Testing the role of economic complexity on the ecological footprint in China: a nonparametric causality-in-quantiles approach
Authors: Akadiri Seyi Saint , Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday , Asuzu Obioma Chinenyenwa , Onuogu Ijeoma Christina , Oji-Okoro Izuchukwu
Published: April 2022

China is known for its large industrial sector and diversified energy mix, which could contribute to environmental pollution, as fossil fuels remain China's main source of energy. With the recent drive by the Chinese government to achieve low carbon emissions and further reduce greenhouse gases, this study adds to the existing literature by combining the quantile-on-quantile (QQ) regression and non-parametric techniques to examine the role of economic complexity, nonrenewables energy and renewable energy consumption on the ecological footprint in China over the period 1985Q1–2019Q4. Overall, results show that renewable energy, non-renewable energy use, economic growth and economic complexity affects ecological footprint positively. In addition, the nonparametric causality outcomes revealed that renewable energy, non-renewable energy use, economic growth and economic complexity can significantly predict variations in ecological footprint at different quantiles. We are of the opinion that policymakers in this region should work on the pro-growth mentality of China, which is majorly fossil fuel-driven. This requires an immediate replacement with more eco-friendly sources and energy-saving technologies for economic activities. Otherwise, fulfilling the SDG 13 goals in China will be challenging. For a sustainable renewable energy investment, China should shift to ancillary and spot markets, where the low energy storage and low marginal cost of renewable energy could facilitate higher reduction in electricity cost and encourage higher trading of electricity.
The origin of alkaline fen in the Mosbeek Valley in the Netherlands is due to human impact rather than a natural development
Authors: Smeenge Harm , Kooijman Annemieke , Brinkkemper Otto , Mars Hans de , Mauquoy Dmitri , van Geel Bas
Published: April 2022

Alkaline fens are important Natura 2000 habitats, which harbor many endangered plant species. Alkaline fens are formed in areas with groundwater discharge and usually developed in a natural way in the early Holocene. We radiocarbon dated the base of three peat deposits from spring fens along the flanks of the ice-pushed ridge near the village of Ootmarsum to find out when and why peat-forming vegetation started to grow. We cored a sequence in the Mosbeek Valley for detailed paleoecological analyses of micro- and macrofossils. To our surprise, we found strong evidence for human impact during the 13th and 14th centuries AD as the triggering factor for starting organic colluvial accumulation and peat growth at sites where natural springs are present. This shows that this fen is not a relic, but results from changes in land use. Human actions were: (1) deforestation causing increased run-off and reduced evaporation on the plateaus by the vegetation, resulting in increased seepage in the valleys, (2) intensification of agriculture, trade routes, and paired erosion, which formed colluvial deposits and sediment fans that hampered fast run-off water, (3) increased back and groundwater levels after the foundation of watermills; four lowering water levels due to intensification and reorganization of water use by new watermills, and (4) head cut erosion and spring erosion after privatization and cultivation of common pastures after the mid 19th century. This means that cultural-historical changes in the landscape were much more important for alkaline fens than expected.
Ursolic acid protects against anoxic injury in cardiac microvascular endothelial cells by regulating intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and toll-like receptor 4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Bian Zhongrui , Liu Hui , Xu Fei , Du Yimeng
Published: April 2022

Background

Cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) are rapidly damaged after myocardial ischemia or hypoxia. In this study, we intend to explore whether ursolic acid (UA) can protect CMECs against hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury and to detect related molecular mechanism.

Methods

CMECs were subjected to H/R condition in the absence or presence of UA. Cell behaviors were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8, transwell, ELISA and western blot assays. siRNA was applied to reduce ICAM1 expression, then the effect of co-treatment of UA and si-ICAM1 on CMECs has been detected by biological experiments.

Results

Under H/R stimulation, the proliferation and migration of CMECs were inhibited, as well as the inflammation and oxidative stress were enhanced. UA treatment obviously reversed these H/R-induced injuries and reduced ICAM1 expression. Moreover, knockdown of ICAM1 could alleviate the H/R-induced injuries and strengthen the protective effect of UA on CMECs under H/R condition. Additionally, the protein levels of TLR4, MyD88 and p-P65 NF-κB were obviously increased after H/R stimulation, whereas the addition of UA could alter the phenomena by reducing TLR4, MyD88, and p-P65 NF-κB expression.

Conclusions

Our results insinuated that UA could alleviate H/R-induced injuries in CMECs by regulating ICAM1 and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.
Electroacupuncture reduces weight, skinfold thickness and waist circumference and increases skin temperature of the abdominal region in women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lima Isabella Gomes de , Silva Josie Resende Torres da , Silva Amanda Godoy da , Andrade Alice de Sousa , Sousa Ligia de
Published: April 2022

Background:

Acupuncture, as a complementary and alternative medical treatment, has shown some promise as a therapeutic option for obesity and weight control. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on body weight, body mass index (BMI), skin fold thickness, waist circumference and skin temperature of the abdominal region in non-obese women with excessive abdominal subcutaneous fat.

Methods:

A total of 50 women with excessive abdominal subcutaneous fat (and average BMI of 22) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: an EA group (n = 25) receiving 10 EA sessions (insertion of needles connected to an electrical stimulator at a frequency of 40 Hz for 40 min) and a control group (n = 25) that received no treatment. Outcome measures evaluated included waist circumference, supra-iliac and abdominal skinfolds, body composition and superficial skin temperature (measured by cutaneous thermography) before and after treatment.

Results:

Compared with the untreated group, women in the EA group exhibited decreased supra-iliac and abdominal skin folds (p < 0.001), waist circumference (p < 0.001), percentage body fat (p = 0.001) and percentage abdominal fat (p < 0.001). In addition, the EA group showed an elevated skin temperature at the site of the treatment. However, EA did not significantly impact body weight (p = 0.01) or BMI (p = 0.2).

Conclusion:

EA promoted a reduction in abdominal waist circumference, supra-iliac and abdominal skin folds, and percentage body and abdominal fat in women of normal BMI with excessive abdominal subcutaneous fat, as well as an increase in the superficial skin temperature of the abdominal region.

Trial registration number:

RBR-9tsmpp (Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials).
Effect of Revascularization on Exercise-Induced Changes in Cardiac and Prothrombotic Biomarkers in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Hansen C. H. , Cwikiel J. , Bratseth V. , Arnesen H. , Flaa A. , Seljeflot I.
Published: April 2022

We examined whether resting levels and exercise-induced changes during exercise ECG stress test (EST) of cardiac Troponin T (cTnT), NT-proBNP and prothrombotic markers were affected by revascularization in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

EST1 was performed before coronary angiography and revascularization, and patients (n  =  20) with confirmed CAD, performed another EST (EST2) 9 weeks later. Blood samples were drawn at rest and within five min after termination of ESTs.

cTnT and NT-proBNP increased during exercise at both ESTs (p < 0.001, all). Resting cTnT levels at EST2 versus EST1 were significantly higher (p  =  0.02) whereas NT-proBNP did not differ. At both visits, increased D-dimer (p  =  0.008 and <0.001), pro-thrombin fragment 1  +  2 (p  =  0.009 and 0.001) and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) (p < 0.001 and 0.001) during exercise were demonstrated. Resting levels of endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and TFPI were reduced at EST2 versus EST1 (p < 0.01).

Revascularization did not affect exercise-induced release of cardiac and prothrombotic biomarkers and did not reduce resting levels of cTnT or NT-proBNP, suggesting revascularization per se not to prevent secretion of biomarkers. The lower resting levels of ETP and TFPI after revascularization may however, be indicative of reduced thrombin generation and endothelial activation.

Clinicaltrials.gov, CADENCE, NCT01495091 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01495091?term = 01495091&draw = 2&rank = 1 .
Modeling and dynamic analysis for rotors with curvic-coupling looseness
Authors: Liu Di , Zhou Liang , Zhang Dayi , Wang Hong
Published: April 2022

The joint structures, such as flanges with bolts and curvic-couplings, are commonly applied in aero-engine rotors. Those joints tend to loosen when subjected to heavy load, and the local deformation of the joints can induce nonlinearities to the rotor and further affect its dynamic characteristics. However, much research focuses on the bolted joint loosening, while the studies of curvic-coupling loosening in rotor systems are seldom reported. In this paper, the modeling and dynamics analysis for rotors with curvic-coupling loosening are performed. First, an analytical model is proposed to describe the nonlinear stiffness caused by looseness at the joint interface. Then, a rotor with curvic-coupling looseness is modeled and the related dynamic equations are derived. Finally, the modal characteristics of the rotor with curvic-coupling looseness are analyzed based on the complex nonlinear modes method, and the rotor’s steady-state response is obtained using numerical methods. The results show that the softening behavior introduced by joint looseness can lead to eigen frequency reduction in modal analysis, amplitude jump in response, and bifurcation around the critical speed. The above dynamic characteristics can provide reference for fault diagnosis in the rotor system with curvic-coupling loosening.
Adaptive nonsingular integral-type dynamic terminal sliding mode synchronizer for disturbed nonlinear systems and its application to secure communication systems
Authors: Vaseghi Behrouz , Mobayen Saleh , Din Sami ud , Hashemi Seyedeh Somayeh , Vu Mai The
Published: April 2022

This study proposes an adaptive nonsingular integral dynamic terminal sliding mode tracker/synchronizer for disturbed nonlinear systems along with its usage in safe communication systems. The convergence of the closed-loop structure under unknown uncertainty and disturbances is guaranteed via Lyapunov analysis. Furthermore, a parameter-tuning method is planned to approximate the upper bound of uncertainty and disturbance terms, since this latter is typically unknown in practice. The proposed approach is used to design a digital secure transmission scheme according to the chaotic systems. The effectiveness of the suggested approach is validated using computer simulations on a benchmark example of chaotic system. The obtained outcomes clearly confirm the ability of the planned control approach enables to attain the desired tracking/synchronizing performance despite the disturbances. Additionally, when implemented to the data encryption of a communication system, the proposed control and secure communication techniques enabled the complete and secure retrieval of the original digital sequences.
Two-stage strategy in end-stage hip periprosthetic joint infection: utility of industrially prefabricated custom-made antibiotic spacers
Authors: Vicente Matías , Vilar Inca , Soriano Rosa Fraile , Capó Irina , Corona Pablo S
Published: April 2022

Purpose:

Use of prefabricated mobile spacers in end-stage cases of hip periprosthetic joint infection (HPJI) is hindered when large bone defects exist. In such cases, prefabricated custom-made antibiotic spacers (P-CMAS) offer an alternative. Such spacers are individually designed according to the size and anatomical characteristics of the bone defect. The purpose of this study is to describe and evaluate the use of such patient-specific spacers in a two-stage strategy to treat end-stage HPJI cases, and to report on clinical outcomes.

Methods:

A retrospective study identified all patients with end-stage HPJIs from January 2015 through December 2019, treated using a P-CMAS. Primary outcome: infection eradication rate. Secondary outcomes: spacer-related complications and patient satisfaction. Minimum follow-up: 12 months after the second-stage surgery.

Results:

A total of 7 end-stage cases (mean of 6.7 previous surgical procedures) were included. Mean bone defect size was 191.57 (range 47–304) mm. Polymicrobial infection was detected in 42.86% of these cases. During the spacer stage there were no periprosthetic fractures, spacer dislocations or breakages, nor spacer-drug-related complications. All patients proceeded with the second stage uneventfully, with an average time between stages of 178 (range 119–326) days. In 5 cases a total femur arthroplasty was the reconstructive procedure performed. After a mean follow-up of 27.29 (range 14–49) months the infection was clinically eradicated in all patients, despite their difficult-to-treat scenarios.

Conclusions:

Industrially custom-made spacers offer an effective and safe option in performing 2-stage exchange arthroplasty in cases of end-stage HPJI with extensive bone defects.
The outcomes of total hip arthroplasty in patients with and without multiple sclerosis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mai David H , Blackowicz Michael E , Kister Ilya , Schwarzkopf Ran
Published: April 2022

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neuroinflammatory disease with debilitating manifestations that may predispose patients to hip fracture and osteoarthritis, and may affect recovery from total hip arthroplasty (THA). With increased longevity of MS patients and growth in demand for arthroplasty in this population, it is important to understand outcomes of THA in patients with MS.

Aim:

We sought to compare outcomes of THA among persons with MS and without MS.

Methods:

International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision Procedure Coding System (ICD-9-PCS) codes for hip arthroplasty (815.1) were used to identify all patients in the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database who underwent THA between 2000 and 2014. Patients with MS, the primary exposure, were identified using ICD-9-Clinical Modification (CM) code 340. The study outcomes of length of stay (days), discharge disposition, index admission mortality, 90-day readmission, 1-year revision arthroplasty, and 1-year all-cause mortality were evaluated using multivariable regression analyses inclusive of basic demographics, admission source, disposition, payer, comorbidity, and socioeconomic status (SES).

Results:

Compared to patients without MS, those with MS had marginally longer lengths of stay (mean ratio [MR] 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.10; p = 0.0142), higher risk for institutional discharge disposition (odds ratio [OR] 2.03; 95% CI, 1.54–2.70; p < 0.0001) and higher risk of readmission for revision hip arthroplasty (OR 2.60; 95% CI, 1.07–6.35; p = 0.035). However, MS patients had similar risk for 90-day readmission and one-year all-cause mortality as compared with non-MS patients.

Conclusions:

Although patients with MS who underwent THA had a 90-day complication risk that was similar to those without MS, the risk for requiring revision surgery was more than 2-fold higher. Additional studies are needed to understand the reasons for revision surgery and for developing strategies to mitigate the risk of complications.
Comparison of total hip arthroplasty outcomes between haemodyalisis and renal transplant patients
Authors: Ahlquist Seth , Kim Samuel T , Hsiue Peter P , Benharash Peyman , Ponzio Danielle Y , Photopoulos Christos , Zeegen Erik N , Stavrakis Alexandra I
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients is associated with increased complications. Controversy exists whether elective THA should be performed while these patients are on haemodialysis (HD) or following renal transplant (RT). This study seeks to compare THA outcomes in HD versus RT patients.

Methods:

A national database was retrospectively reviewed using ICD codes to identify all HD and RT patients who underwent primary THA from 2010 to 2018. Demographics, comorbidities, and hospital factors were compared between cohorts using Wald and chi-square tests. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, while secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), non-home discharge, cost, readmission, and medical/surgical complications. Multivariate regression was used to determine independent associations. Significance was determined with a 2-tailed p-value of 0.05.

Results:

11,133 patients underwent THA, 61.6% HD and 39.4% RT patients. RT patients were younger, had fewer comorbidities, and more likely to have private insurance. After adjusting for these differences, RT patients had a lower rate of mortality (OR 0.31, p = 0.01), complications (OR 0.54, p < 0.01), cardiopulmonary complications (OR 0.54, p = 0.04), sepsis (OR 0.43, p < 0.01), and blood transfusion (OR 0.39, p < 0.001) during the index hospitalisation. RT was associated with decreased LOS (−2.0 days, p < 0.001), non-home discharge (OR 0.35, p < 0.001), and hospital cost (−$6,000, p < 0.001). RT had a lower rate of readmission (OR 0.60, p < 0.001) and revision surgery (OR 0.24, p = 0.01) within 90 days.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest HD patients are a high-risk population in THA compared to RT patients and warrant stringent perioperative monitoring.
Outcomes of isolated head-liner exchange versus full acetabular component revision in aseptic revision total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Berlinberg Elyse J , Roof Mackenzie A , Meftah Morteza , Long William J , Schwarzkopf Ran
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Isolated head and liner exchange in aseptic revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) is an appealing option rather than full acetabular component revision; however, early outcome reports suggest high rates of complications requiring re-revision. This study seeks to compare the outcomes of these procedures.

Methods:

This retrospective study assessed 124 head and liner exchanges and 59 full acetabular cup revisions conducted at a single center between 2011 and 2019 with at least 2 years of follow-up. Baseline demographics did not vary by group. Mean follow-up was 3.7 (range 2.0–8.6) years.

Results:

In the head and liner exchange group, re-revision-free survivorship at 2 years was 79% for all-causes and 84% for aseptic reasons. In the full acetabular revision group, it was 80% for all causes ( p > 0.99) and 83% for aseptic reasons ( p > 0.99). The 2-year survivorship of head and liner exchange was non-inferior to that of full acetabular revision, correcting for surgical indication and history of prior revision (adj-OR 0.1.39, 95% CI, 0.62–3.28, p = 0.99). A best-fit multivariable model found that revision for instability (adj-OR=3.03, 95% CI 1.40–6.66, p = 0.005), prior revision (adj-OR 2.15; 95% CI, 0.87–5.32; p = 0.10), current smoking (adj-OR 2.07; 95% CI, 0.94–4.57; p = 0.07), and obesity (adj-OR 0.58; 95% CI, 0.24–1.36; p = 0.22) were associated with failure within 2 years.

Conclusions:

In this analysis, 2-year outcomes for isolated head and liner exchange were non-inferior to full acetabular component revision. A future randomised prospective study should be conducted to better assess the optimal approach to revision in an aseptic failed hip arthroplasty.
The Availability of Human Biospecimens to Support Biomarker Research
Authors: Tarling Tamsin E. , Byrne Jennifer A. , Watson Peter H.
Published: April 2022

Preserved biospecimens held in biobank inventories and clinical archives are important resources for biomarker research. Recent advances in technologies have led to an increase in use of clinical archives in particular, in order to study retrospective cohorts and to generate data relevant to tissue biomarkers. This raises the question of whether the current sizes of biobank inventories are appropriate to meet the demands of biomarker research. This commentary discusses this question by considering data concerning overall biobank and biospecimen numbers to estimate current biospecimen supply and use. The data suggests that biospecimen supply exceeds current demand. Therefore, it may be important for individual biobanks to reassess the targets for their inventories, consider culling unused portions of these inventories, and shift resources towards providing prospective custom biobanking services.
Changing positions without losing face: How parties shift their position on issues
Authors: Feddersen Alexandra
Published: April 2022

Parties face a dilemma when confronted with shifting public opinion or changing rival parties’ issue positions: while ignoring ongoing changes could lead to electoral losses, position shifts on a salient issue might be perceived as flip- flopping and alienate supporters. This paper proposes a model combining positional and framing approaches in order to understand how parties can shift their position on a specific issue without losing face. The empirical analysis of rhetoric-based estimates of party strategies draws upon a corpus of 8790 press releases issued by Swiss parties between 2007 and 2016 on the issue of migration. The results show that parties, rather than bluntly shifting their opinion on the issue, prefer to draw the public’s attention toward another set of frames that allows for a different position. These results have important implications for our understanding of parties’ competition on issues, as well as for the literature on mass-elite linkages.
Prehabilitation before major abdominal surgery: Evaluation of the impact of a perioperative clinical pathway, a pilot study
Authors: Boukili Ilies E. , Flaris Alexandros N. , Mercier Frederic , Cotte Eddy , Kepenekian Vahan , Vaudoyer Delphine , Glehen Olivier , Passot Guillaume
Published: April 2022

Background & objective:

Major abdominal surgery morbidity can reach 50%. Prehabilitation has shown promising results in decreasing complications. However, it is unknown if prehabilitation can have a positive effect specifically after major abdominal surgery. The goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a prehabilitation program before major abdominal surgery.

Methods:

All patients evaluated for major abdominal surgery between February and April 2018 were eligible. A 4-week trimodal prehabilitation program combining physical therapy, nutritional support and psychological preparation was set up.

Results:

Among 106 patients evaluated for major abdominal surgery during the study period, 60 were included in the prehabilitation program. No cardiovascular events occurred during prehabilitation. The 6-min walking distance increased significantly (+45 m, increase of 9.3%, p = 0.008) after prehabilitation (and before the operation). Anxiety, depression, and several quality of life (QoL) items improved. Postoperative 90-day mortality and morbidity were 3.4% and 48%, respectively. Median hospital length of stay, and intensive care unit length of stay were 14 and 6 days, respectively. For 19 patients readmitted, the treatment was medical, radiological, or surgical, for 11, 5, and 3 patients, respectively.

Conclusions:

Prehabilitation before major abdominal surgery is feasible, safe, and improve patients’ functional reserves, QoL, and psychological status.
Conceptualising human and non-human marginalisation in tourism
Authors: Abdullah Taufik , Lee Craig , Carr Neil
Published: April 2022

The tourism industry can bring benefits to its stakeholders. However, some actors receive more benefits and/or disadvantages than others. This is related to marginalisation. As such, it is imperative to understand how the process of marginalisation occurs in tourism destinations. Previous studies have depicted cases of marginalisation in the tourism industry. Yet, there has been a dearth of analysis of the conceptualisation of the process of marginalisation within the industry. Consequently, this conceptual paper proposes a conceptual model of how marginalisation occurs in the tourism industry. The proposed model is situated in a tourism destination, and explains the marginalisation process among tourism actors that contribute to building tourist experiences. We argue that marginalisation is caused by power differentials in tourism destinations.
Exploring the part load lean limit of a direct injection spark ignition engine fueled with ethanol
Authors: Golke Diego , Prante Geovane AF , Garlet Roberto A , Rohrig Marcelo , Lanzanova Thompson DM , Martins Mario ES
Published: April 2022

Stringent environmental legislation demands development of internal combustion engines seeking higher thermal efficiency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Brazilian governmental programs like ROTA 2030 and RenovaBio drive the research and development of highly efficient engines fueled with biofuels, like sugarcane bioethanol, that has a near to zero carbon footprint. Some technologies such as gasoline direct injection, variable valve train, and turbocharging were implemented in downsized Spark Ignition (SI) engines in order to reach higher thermal efficiencies and decrease CO2 emissions. Homogeneous lean combustion in SI operation can improve fuel consumption and reduce exhaust gas emissions. However, it is limited by combustion instability and the three-way-catalyst (TWC) inability to work properly converting nitrogen oxides (NOx). With lean combustion the NOx emissions could be significantly reduced, enabling the use of lean NOx trap (LNT) as an effective lower cost after treatment system. To explore the limits of homogeneous lean combustion in SI engines, experimental tests were performed to investigate performance, efficiency, combustion, and emission parameters of a multi-cylinder Ford 1.0l Ti-VCT EcoBoost engine fueled with hydrous ethanol. Hydrous ethanol is a commercial Brazilian fuel which has greater laminar flame speed and higher dilution tolerance than gasoline, and thus can increase combustion stability. Different fuel direct injection strategies were explored at part load (below 8.0 bar IMEP) at engine speed of 1500 rpm. Air-to-fuel ratio was varied from stoichiometric (lambda 1.0) to lambda 1.5. The limit of stable homogeneous lean combustion (COVIMEP ≤ 3.0%) was achieved in lambda 1.4. The lowest indicated load of 2.1 bar IMEP was limited by combustion stability at lambda 1.3. The maximum indicated efficiency was 36.9% at indicated load of 8.0 bar IMEP and lambda 1.4. The NOx emissions dropped below 1.4 g/kWh at 4.0 bar IMEP and lambda 1.4.
Geographies of the event? Rethinking time and power through digital interfaces
Authors: Ash James , Gordon Rachel , Mills Sarah
Published: April 2022

This paper examines work in cultural and human geography that theorises temporality in terms of events. Moving from humanist phenomenology, to non-representational and assemblage theories and current geographies of encounter, it suggests these accounts of events tend to analyse the past and future through the lens of the present. Building upon these literatures and the work of Tristan Garcia, the paper argues for an expanded notion of the event, where past and future events can be considered as both distinct from, and linked to, the present moment. Here, time comes to be defined as the ordering and stacking of events, where events are understood as sites of comprehension, in which entities are differentiated. The paper suggests this position is useful in order to trace temporal causality across and between entities and events. Tracing the causality of entities and their ordering and stacking across events enables a closer analysis of what the paper terms the temporal power of non-human things. To illustrate this argument, examples from an ESRC project on digital gaming and in-game purchasing are analysed.
Stranger than Fiction: Voters and Party Leaders in a New Democracy
Authors: Gherghina Sergiu , Tap Paul
Published: April 2022

Research in politics uses fictitious politicians to explain different processes. In experimental designs, the participants know that these politicians do not exist. However, we know little about what happens when people are not aware about this, and it remains unclear if they distinguish between fictitious and real politicians. Our article aims to explain what makes citizens identify a fictitious party leader. We use individual-level data from a survey conducted in Romania on a probability representative sample. Our analysis tests the extent to which characteristics associated to two opposing groups in society influence the identification of a fictitious party leader. The empirical evidence bears important implications for the literature on political sophistication and for the research emphasizing social desirability bias.
Prediction of sound absorption performance of fibers coming from cigarette butts using a phenomenological model
Authors: García-Cobos Francisco J , Maderuelo-Sanz Rubén
Published: April 2022

This work deals with experimental and theoretical research about cellulose acetate fibers coming from cigarette butts. This waste, considered one of the most hazardous, numerous, and polluting waste all over the world, represents a high environmental risk. The possibility of using these fibers in sound-absorbing panels is evaluated. The acoustical properties are measured according to ISO 10534-2, and predicted using a phenomenological model over the frequency range from 100 Hz to 6400 Hz. This work includes the study of important non-acoustical properties for a better understanding of the porous structure. The Johnson-Champoux-Allard model provides good accuracy. The experimental results of the sound absorption spectrums show mean errors ranging from 1.1% to 9.0%. Moreover, it is possible to obtain non-acoustic properties of cellulose acetate fibers, which are difficult to obtain experimentally, using the Johnson-Champoux-Allard model and an inverse technique. The input parameters of this model are successfully obtained with low errors concerning the measurements (0.6–5.2% for porosity or 2.6–10.5% for flow resistivity). The results of the sound absorption spectrum at normal incidence of the cellulose acetate show very accurate predictions. The experimental results show values of sound-absorption coefficients close to 1.0 and sound absorption average ranging from 0.42 to 0.8. Therefore, these waste fibers are an alternative to the traditional porous absorbers, mainly composed of synthetic fibers or foams and petroleum-based resins.