bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of offshore wind power in the China sea
Authors: Tian Yu-chi , kou Lei , Han Yun-dong , Yang Xiaodong , Hou Ting-ting , Zhang Wen-kai
Published: February 2021

With resource crisis and environmental crisis increasingly grim, many countries turn the focus to pollution-free and renewable wind energy resources, which are mainly used for offshore wind power generation, seawater desalination and heating, etc., on the premise that the characteristics of resources are fully grasped. In this study, the evaluation of offshore wind energy in offshore waters in China, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of existing studies were overviewed from four aspects: the spatial-temporal characteristics of wind energy, wind energy classification, the short-term forecast of wind energy and the long-term projection of wind energy, according to the research content and the future considerations about wind energy evaluation (evaluation of wind energy on islands and reefs, the impact of wind energy development on human health) were envisaged, in the hope of providing a scientific basis for the site selection and business operation ‘or military applications’ here (after business operation), etc. of wind energy development, ‘aritime navigation against environmental construction,’ here and also contributing to the sustainable development and health of human beings.
Factors associated with infrainguinal bypass graft patency at 1-year; a retrospective analysis of a single centre experience
Authors: Normahani Pasha , Anwar Ismail Yusuf , Courtney Alona , Acharya Amish , Sounderajah Viknesh , Mustafa Chira , Jaffer Usman , Shalhoub Joseph , Riga Celia , Gibbs Richard , Jenkins Michael , Bicknell Colin , Davies Alun H , Nott David , Aylwin Christopher , Standfield Nigel J
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with primary graft patency 1 year following open lower limb revascularisation (LLR) at a tertiary referral vascular service.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing infra-inguinal bypass surgery between January 2016 and May 2017 at a tertiary vascular centre (St Mary’s Hospital, London) was performed. Data regarding patient demographics, comorbidities, type of operation and post-operative anti-thrombotic strategy were collected. Quality of run-off score was assessed from pre-operative imaging.

Results:

Seventy-seven cases were included in the analysis. Overall, the primary patency rate at 1-year was 63.6% ( n = 49/77) and the secondary patency rate was 67.5% ( n = 52/77). Independent variables with statistically significant inferior patency rates at 1-year were (1) bypasses with below knee targets (p = 0.0096), (2) chronic limb threatening ischaemia indication (p = 0.038), (3) previous ipsilateral revascularisation (p < 0.001) and (4) absence of hypertension history (p = 0.041). There was also a trend towards significance for American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade (p = 0.06). Independent variables with log-rank test p values of <0.1 were included in a Cox proportional hazards model. The only variable with a statistically significant impact on primary patency rates was previous open or endovascular ipsilateral revascularisation (HR 2.44 (1.04–5.7), p = 0.04).

Conclusion:

At 1-year follow-up, previous ipsilateral revascularisation was the most significant factor in affecting patency rates. Patients in this subgroup should therefore be deemed high-risk, which should be reflected in the informed consent and peri-operative management.
Temperature management on cardiopulmonary bypass: Is it standardised across Great Britain and Ireland?
Authors: Browne Lorraine P
Published: February 2021

Temperature management is an essential element of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), as indicated in the Guide to Good Practice in Clinical Perfusion, ‘The safe conduct of CPB requires the clinical perfusionist to measure and control. . . blood temperature. . . during the period of bypass’. To review current practice, we have conducted a research survey into the management of temperature on CPB. Surveys were distributed to each centre in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, investigating numerous temperature management practices, to elucidate current practice and assess if recent research into temperature management marry routine clinical practice. Our results demonstrate that nasopharyngeal temperature is the most common (52%) temperature site used across the many centres, which correlates with previous research as a routine site for cerebral temperature management. The arterial outlet of the oxygenator temperature was used in 33% of centres, however, all centres lacked the knowledge to maintain this temperature below 37°C. There was significant variation between all centres, especially regarding rewarming times (20–40 minutes), demonstrating a lack of uniformity among perfusion centres. Interestingly, most centres have been using the same protocol that has been in place over the previous 10 years.

To conclude, the practice of temperature management is changing with the awareness of new research. Lower target temperatures are recommended for rewarming, ensuring a lower temperature gradient and a longer mean rewarming time.
Minimal invasive extracorporeal circulation preserves coagulation integrity
Authors: Argiriadou Helena , Antonitsis Polychronis , Gkiouliava Anna , Papapostolou Evangelia , Deliopoulos Apostolos , Anastasiadis Kyriakos
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

Coagulopathy after cardiac surgery is a serious multifactorial complication that results in postoperative bleeding requiring transfusion of red blood cells and procoagulant products. Use of cardiopulmonary bypass represents the major contributing factor affecting coagulation. We sought to prospectively investigate the effect of contemporary minimal invasive extracorporeal circulation (MiECC) on coagulation parameters using point-of-care (POC) rotational thromboelastometry and the relation to postoperative bleeding.

Methods:

Patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery on MiECC were prospectively recruited. Anticoagulation strategy was based on individualized heparin management and heparin level-guided protamine titration. Rotational thromboelastometry testing was performed before induction of anesthesia and after aortic cross-clamp release. A strict POC-guided transfusion protocol was implemented. The primary endpoint was the assessment of viscoelastic properties of the coagulating blood at the end of surgery compared to preoperative values and the relation to postoperative bleeding and 24-hour transfusion requirements.

Results:

Fifty patients were included in the study with a significant proportion having complex surgery. Thirteen patients (26%) required blood transfusion (mean rate: 0.5 ± 1 units per patient), 5/50 (10%) received coagulation factors while no patient received fresh frozen plasma, platelets or fibrinogen. Thromboelastometry analysis showed that the major derangement was CT EXTEM > 100 seconds in 28/50 (56%) and A10 EXTEM < 40 mm in one (2%) patient without clinical significance. Platelet function was preserved throughout surgery. A10-FIBTEM was found predictive of postoperative bleeding at 12 hours.

Conclusions:

MiECC preserves clot quality throughout surgery acting in both key determinants of clot strength; fibrinogen and platelets. This is clinically translated into minimal postoperative bleeding and restricted use of blood products and coagulation factors.
Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute respiratory distress syndrome due to an acute type B aortic dissection: a case report
Authors: Miyagawa Masatsugu , Yagi Tsukasa , Sugai Shonosuke , Hayashida Satoshi , Iso Kazuki , Iida Korehito , Atsumi Wataru , Tachibana Eizo , Kunimoto Satoshi , Okumura Yasuo
Published: February 2021

Acute type B aortic dissection is sometimes complicated by acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. Herein, we describe our experience in a rare acute type B aortic dissection-associated respiratory failure case culminating in acute respiratory distress syndrome. The patient was a 45-year-old man admitted with a complaint of sudden chest pain radiating to his back. On computed tomography, an acute type B aortic dissection was diagnosed. He had no dyspnea on admission, but his respiratory function subsequently deteriorated, and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome was diagnosed on Day 4. Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with anticoagulation plus continuous renal replacement therapy for oliguria improved the oxygenation, and the patient was weaned from the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on Day 8. This patient fully recovered without worsening the aortic dissection, using venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with anticoagulation plus a continuous renal replacement therapy.
Data science in organizations: Conceptualizing its breakthroughs and blind spots
Authors: Cybulski Jacob L , Scheepers Rens
Published: February 2021

The field of data science emerged in recent years, building on advances in computational statistics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data. Modern organizations are immersed in data and are turning toward data science to address a variety of business problems. While numerous complex problems in science have become solvable through data science, not all scientific solutions are equally applicable to business. Many data-intensive business problems are situated in complex socio-political and behavioral contexts that still elude commonly used scientific methods. To what extent can such problems be addressed through data science? Does data science have any inherent blind spots in this regard? What types of business problems are likely to be addressed by data science in the near future, which will not, and why? We develop a conceptual framework to inform the application of data science in business. The framework draws on an extensive review of data science literature across four domains: data, method, interfaces, and cognition. We draw on Ashby’s Law of Requisite Variety as theoretical principle. We conclude that data-scientific advances across the four domains, in aggregate, could constitute requisite variety for particular types of business problems. This explains why such problems can be fully or only partially addressed, solved, or automated through data science. We distinguish between situations that can be improved due to cross-domain compensatory effects, and problems where data science, at best, only contributes merely to better understanding of complex phenomena.
Sex differences in depressive symptoms and tolerability after treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants: Secondary analyses of the GENPOD trial
Authors: Gougoulaki Marilia , Lewis Glyn , Nutt David J , Peters Tim J , Wiles Nicola J , Lewis Gemma
Published: February 2021

Background:

Differences in serotonergic neurotransmission could lead to sex differences in depressive symptoms and tolerability after treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Aims:

We investigated whether women have greater reductions in depressive symptoms than men after treatment with an SSRI (citalopram) compared with a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (reboxetine) control, and after antidepressant treatment irrespective of class. We also investigated tolerability and the influence of menopausal status.

Methods:

Secondary analyses of the GENPOD (GENetic and clinical Predictors Of treatment response in Depression) trial. Six hundred and one people with depression were recruited from UK primary care and randomized to citalopram or reboxetine. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) score at 6 weeks was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included BDI-II score at 12 weeks, and physical symptoms and treatment discontinuation. We calculated main effects and interaction terms using linear and logistic regression models.

Results:

There was no evidence that women experienced greater reductions in depressive symptoms than men when treated with citalopram compared with reboxetine. We also found no evidence of sex differences at six or 12 weeks (irrespective of antidepressant class): men scored −0.31 (95% confidence interval (CI) −2.23 to 1.62) BDI-II points lower than women at six weeks and −0.44 (95% CI −2.62 to 1.74) points lower at 12 weeks. There was no evidence of sex differences in physical symptoms or treatment discontinuation and no evidence for an influence of menopausal status.

Conclusion:

Citalopram was not more effective in women compared with men and there was no difference in tolerability. Women and men had similar prognosis after SSRI treatment and similar prognosis regardless of antidepressant class. Findings were unaltered by menopausal status.
Retrospective analysis of T-lymphocyte subsets and cytokines in malignant obstructive jaundice before and after external and internal biliary drainage
Authors: An Jianli , Dong Yanchao , Li Yanguo , Han Xiaoyu , Sha Junfeng , Zou Zibo , Niu Hongtao
Published: February 2021

Objective

To study changes in T lymphocyte subsets, cytokines, and liver enzymes in patients with malignant obstructive jaundice (MOJ) before and after external biliary drainage (percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography drainage, PTCD) and internal biliary drainage (percutaneous transhepatic insertion of biliary stents, PTIBS).

Methods

MOJ patients undergoing PTCD (n = 44) and PTIBS (n = 38) at our hospital were enrolled in the study from January 2017 until December 2019. Peripheral blood total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), CD3+%, CD4+%, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured before and 1 week after biliary drainage.

Results

There was no significant difference in any parameter between the two groups before biliary drainage. TBIL, DBIL, AST and ALT following PTCD were significantly lower than before PTCD. By contrast, CD3+%, CD4+%, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, IL-2, IL-6 and TNF-α showed no significant difference before and 1 week after PTCD. TBIL, DBIL, AST, ALT, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly lower following PTIBS than before PTIBS. CD3+%, CD4+%, CD4+/CD8+ ratio and IL-2 were significantly higher following PTIBS than before PTIBS.

Conclusion

Both PTCD and PTIBS were effective for treatment of MOJ, but PTIBS was more beneficial for recovery of immune function.
Integration of focal vibration and intra-articular oxygen–ozone therapy in rehabilitation of painful knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Paolucci Teresa , Agostini Francesco , Bernetti Andrea , Paoloni Marco , Mangone Massimiliano , Santilli Valter , Pezzi Letizia , Bellomo Rosa Grazia , Saggini Raoul
Published: February 2021

Objective

To examine the pain-reducing effects of intra-articular oxygen–ozone (O2O3) injections and mechanical focal vibration (mFV) versus O2O3 injections alone in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

Patients with chronic pain (>6 weeks) due to knee osteoarthritis (II–III on the Kellgren–Lawrence scale) were consecutively enrolled and divided into two groups: O2O3 (n = 25) and O2O3-mFV (n = 24). The visual analog scale (VAS), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Medical Research Council (MRC) Manual Muscle Testing scale were administered at baseline (before treatment), after 3 weeks of treatment, and 1 month after the end of treatment. Patients received three once-weekly intra-articular injections of O2O3 into the knee (20 mL O3, 20 μg/mL). The O2O3-mFV group also underwent nine sessions of mFV (three sessions per week).

Results

The VAS score, KOOS, and MRC score were significantly better in the O2O3-mFV than O2O3 group. The within-group analysis showed that all scores improved over time compared with baseline and were maintained even 1 month after treatment. No adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

An integrated rehabilitation protocol involving O2O3 injections and mFV for 3 weeks reduces pain, increases autonomy in daily life activities, and strengthens the quadriceps femoris.
Relationship between serum angiopoietin-like 4 levels and recurrence of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Ning Zhongping , Li Xinming , Zhu Xi , Luo Jun , Wu Yingbiao
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate the association between serum angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) levels and recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation.

Methods

This retrospective study recruited patients with AF undergoing catheter ablation and they were divided into two groups (new-onset AF group and recurrent AF group). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters were collected.

Results

A total of 192 patients with AF were included, including 69 patients with recurrence of AF. Serum ANGPTL4 levels were lower in patients with recurrent AF than in those with new-onset AF. Serum ANGPTL4 levels were positively correlated with superoxide dismutase and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, and negatively correlated with the CHA2DS2-VASC score, left atrial diameter, and levels of brain natriuretic peptide, malondialdehyde, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the best cut-off for recurrent AF was serum ANGPTL4 levels  < 19.735 ng/mL, with a sensitivity and specificity of 63.9% and 74.5%, respectively. Serum ANGPTL4 levels were significantly associated with recurrence and new onset of AF (odds ratio, 2.241; 95% confidence interval, 1.081–4.648).

Conclusions

Serum ANGPTL4 levels are lower in patients with recurrent AF than in those with new-onset AF, and are associated with cardiac hypertrophy, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
Pediatric characteristics and the dose of propofol for sedation during radiological examinations: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Min Ji Young , Lee Jeong-Rim , Kang Yhen Seoung , Ho Jung Hwan , Byon Hyo Jin
Published: February 2021

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate patients’ characteristics that can affect the dose of propofol required to sedate children undergoing imaging.

Methods

In this retrospective, observational study, we reviewed medical records of children aged 0 to 18 years who were classified as having American Society of Anesthesiologists status 1 or 2 and they underwent imaging under propofol sedation between January 2011 and August 2016. Collected data included patients’ demographics, propofol doses, duration of sedation, and complications. Regression analysis was performed to determine patients’ characteristics that may affect the dose of propofol required to induce sedation.

Results

A total of 925 patients were included. Simple linear regression showed that the dose of propofol was correlated with age, height, weight, and body surface area. Using the results of multiple linear regression, the following formula was used to estimate the dose of propofol (mg) for sedation: 0.75 + 0.14 × age (months) + 45.82 × body surface area (m2).

Conclusion

A child’s age, height, and body surface area should be considered when deciding the induction dose of propofol. Additionally, the formula that we have proposed can be used to estimate the dose of propofol required to induce sedation in children undergoing imaging.
Inhibitory role of circRNA_100395 in the proliferation and metastasis of prostate cancer cells
Authors: He Haitian , Li Jianhua , Luo Mayao , Wei Qiang
Published: February 2021

Objective

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding RNAs with high cancer-specific expression and the potential for regulating tumorigenesis. CircRNA_100395 is expressed at low levels in many cancers and is involved in the regulation of tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. However, its expression and function in prostate cancer remain unclear.

Methods

Endogenous expression levels of circRNA_100395 and microRNA-1228 (miR-1228) in prostate cancer tissue samples and cell lines were detected by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, cell cycle distribution, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) were analyzed in circRNA_100395-overexpressing prostate cancer cells by Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry, Transwell assay, and western blotting, respectively.

Results

CircRNA_100395 expression was downregulated in cancerous prostate tissues relative to adjacent normal tissues. CircRNA_100395 expression was negatively correlated with tumor size, Gleason score, tumor stage, and lymph node metastasis. Moreover, circRNA_100395 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, altered cell cycle distribution, reduced cell migration and invasion abilities, and suppressed EMT in prostate cancer cells. Moreover, miR-1228 was a direct downstream target of circRNA_100395, and the anti-tumor ability of circRNA_100395 was significantly reversed by miR-1228.

Conclusion

This study identified circRNA_100395 as an anti-tumor circRNA and a potential therapeutic target for prostate cancer.
Atractylenolide I alleviates ischemia/reperfusion injury by preserving mitochondrial function and inhibiting caspase-3 activity
Authors: Sun Caiqin , Zhang Xuesong , Yu Fei , Liu Chen , Hu Fangbin , Liu Li , Chen Jing , Wang Jue
Published: February 2021

Objective

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury causes various severe heart diseases, including myocardial infarction. This study aimed to determine the therapeutic effect of atractylenolide I (ATR-I), which is an active ingredient isolated from Atractylodes macrocephala, on myocardial I/R injury.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to the five following groups (nine rats/group): control, I/R, and I/R + ATR-I preconditioning (10, 50, and 250 µg). The effects of ATR-I on rats with I/R injury were verified in cardiomyocytes with hypoxia/reoxygenation. Production of reactive oxygen species was determined. The proliferative ability of cardiomyocytes was detected using the bromodeoxyuridine assay. Mitochondrial membrane potential was measured using flow cytometry. Cellular apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry and the terminal dUTP‐digoxigenin nick end labeling assay.

Results

I/R and hypoxia/reoxygenation injury increased mitochondrial dysfunction and activated caspase-3 and Bax/B cell lymphoma 2 expression in vitro and in vivo. ATR-I pretreatment dose-dependently significantly attenuated myocardial apoptosis and suppressed oxidative stress as reflected by increased mitochondrial DNA copy number and superoxide dismutase activity, and decreased reactive oxygen species and Ca2+ content.

Conclusion

ATR-I protects against I/R injury by protecting mitochondrial function and inhibiting activation of caspase-3.
Metastatic microcalcification in the lungs and stomach due to hyperparathyroidism: A case report
Authors: Xu Weiwei , Hu Tao , Lv Shuangzhi , Dong Mengjie , Yang Jun
Published: February 2021

We present a case of a 34-year-old man who was admitted to our hospital with a six-month history of nausea and vomiting that had worsened over the past two weeks. Diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) due to a single parathyroid adenoma was confirmed by laboratory results and imaging but following pharmacological therapy the patient developed a dry cough. Single-photon emission tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) with technetium-99m-diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP) was used to assist in the diagnosis and results showed diffuse metastatic microcalcification in the lungs and stomach. The patient underwent right parathyroidectomy and 99mTc-MDP SPECT/CT scan six months later showed a significantly reduced radioactive distribution in the lungs and none in the stomach. Diffuse metastatic microcalcification in the lungs and stomach due to PHTP is rare and can easily be misdiagnosed.
CCR4-positive peripheral T-cell lymphoma presenting as eosinophilic pneumonia and developing from prolonged pustular psoriasis
Authors: Sekiguchi Nodoka , Komatsu Masamichi , Ichiyama Takashi , Kobayashi Aya , Gomi Daisuke , Fukushima Toshirou , Kobayashi Takashi , Noguchi Takuro , Nakazawa Hideyuki , Asano Naoko , Ishida Fumihiro , Koizumi Tomonobu
Published: February 2021

A 29-year-old woman with chronic, prolonged pustular psoriasis was admitted to our hospital because of high-grade fever and a systemic skin rash. General examination revealed a whole-body skin rash and superficial lymphadenopathy. Peripheral blood examination showed unclassified cells positive for CD3, CD4, and T-cell receptor αβ, and negative for CD20 and CD56. Soon after administration, she developed acute respiratory failure and required artificial ventilation. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid showed increased numbers of eosinophils and abnormal lymphocytes of the same phenotype in peripheral blood and skin. She was diagnosed with eosinophilic pneumonia, and her respiratory failure was improved by corticosteroid therapy. Based on the histological findings of skin, lymph node, and bone marrow biopsies, a diagnosis of peripheral T-cell lymphoma not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS), with positivity for CC chemokine receptor 4 was made. She received chemotherapy followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation, which resulted in complete remission of her PTCL-NOS. She remained alive and disease-free 6 years later. This is the first reported case of PTCL-NOS developing during the clinical course of pustular psoriasis. The clinical manifestations of PTCL-NOS are complex, but an accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapy may produce a good clinical outcome in patients with PTCL-NOS.
Otological manifestation of temporomandibular joint disorder in Ekiti, a sub-Saharan African country
Authors: Adegbiji Waheed Atilade , Olajide Gabriel Toye , Agbesanwa Anthony Tosin , Banjo Omotola Oluwaseyi
Published: February 2021

Objective

To determine the prevalence, sociodemographic features, and clinical presentation of temporomandibular joint disorder in otorhinolaryngological practice.

Methods

This prospective hospital-based study involved patients diagnosed with temporomandibular joint disorder in our institution’s ear, nose, and throat department. Data for this study were obtained from the patients using pretested interviewer-assisted questionnaires.

Results

The prevalence of temporomandibular joint disorder in this study was 1.3%. The study population included 17 (26.2%) male patients with a male:female ratio of 1.0:2.8. Joint disorder accounted for 75.4% of all disorders, while both mastication muscle and joint disorder accounted for 21.5%. A majority of the patients (47.7%) presented between weeks 1 and 13 of the illness. Unilateral temporomandibular joint disorder accounted for 98.5% of all disorders. The main otologic clinical features were earache and a dull tympanic membrane in 100% and 35.4% of patients, respectively. Middle ear assessment revealed type A in 73.8% of patients and type B in 20.0% according to Jerger’s classification system of tympanometry. Most patients (81.5%) were referred by their family physician. All patients had undergone prehospital treatment prior to presentation.

Conclusion

Temporomandibular joint disorder is a common presentation in medical practice. Common clinical features include ear, joint, and mastication muscle disorders.
Management of oropharyngeal teratoma: Two case reports and a literature review
Authors: Zhu Peng , Li Xiao-Yan
Published: February 2021

Pharyngeal teratomas are very rare congenital tumours derived from pluripotent stem cells. Surgical resection is the main treatment to avoid breathing and feeding difficulties. This current case report describes two newborn infants with congenital oropharyngeal teratomas. In one of the infants, the tumour presented along with a cleft tongue and cleft palate. Prenatal diagnosis by ultrasonography did not identify the tumours because the masses were small and there was no polyhydramnios. Both cases were treated surgically and histological examination of the masses in both cases conﬁrmed the diagnosis of a congenital epignathus. There were no complications such as infection, bleeding or residual recurrence following surgery. After 1-year follow-up, there was no recurrence of the epignathus in either case. Oropharyngeal teratoma is a very rare congenital tumour that may cause upper airway obstruction and feeding difficulties in the newborn, so it should be treated surgically in a timely manner.
Evaluation of Dental Golden Ratio in Terms of Facial Esthetics
Authors: Petekkaya Emine , Polat Sema , Kabakçı Ayşe Gül , Çevik Yiğit
Published: February 2021

Aim and Objectives:

This cross-sectional study examined the Bolton index of 6 maxillary anterior teeth and the facial esthetic ratios in the Turkish population with healthy facial appearance.

Materials and Methods:

Face photographs of the subjects, taken using a DSLR camera, were fixed in the Frankfort horizontal plane. The measurements were made on the images using ImageJ 1.52a software and certain ratios of face and teeth were calculated such as Bolton index (BI). Differences between genders were evaluated and comparisons with golden ratio of 1.618 were conducted on SPSS.

Results:

Males had significantly higher upper, middle, lower, and total facial height compared to females ( P < .001, P = 0.0257, P = .0243, P < .001, respectively). Right to left distance of labial commissure (LC)/distance from the distal edge of right canine to the distal edge of left canine ratio had golden proportion. Ratio of naso-menton length to facial width showed golden ratio only in males. The ratio of the width of upper middle incisor to the width of canine tooth also showed golden ratio in both genders.

Conclusions:

The present study presents noteworthy data about facial and teeth ratios of the young adult Turkish population that will guide plastic surgeons and orthodontists in clinical practice.
Analysis of the Type and Study Design of Publications in the Journal of Indian Orthodontic Society and the Changes in Trends Over 2 Decades
Authors: Ramteke Shivangi , Madhan Balasubramanian
Published: February 2021

Background:

The aim of the study was to analyze the type and study design of publications in the Journal of Indian Orthodontic Society (JIOS) and the changes in their trends from 2001 to 2020.

Materials and Methods:

All the online publications in JIOS were classified as background resource, original articles, and case reports. The original articles were further divided into 7 types based on study design. The annual and overall data were compiled. To evaluate the change in trends, the study period was divided into 2 block years: 2001 to 2010 and 2011 to 2020. The differences in the total number of articles and distribution of articles by type and study design were analyzed using Mann–Whitney and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests, respectively.

Results:

Background resource, original articles, and case reports comprised 38.7%, 43.9%, and 17.4% of the total articles (n = 845), respectively. Non-clinical (34.5%) and cross-sectional (32.35%) studies formed the bulk of original articles. There were 17 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (4.58%) and 5 systematic reviews (1.35%) among the original articles. The total number of publications were higher for years in the second block compared to those in the first (Mdn of 63.5 vs 14.5, P < .001). The differences in the distribution according to type were not statistically significant [ X2(2) = 2.052, P = .35]. A reduction in the share of cohort studies and increase in RCTs were found in the second block (F = 19.174, P = .002).

Conclusions:

The higher proportion of background resource publications and those with study designs lower in the hierarchy of evidence is a matter of concern. Though slow paced, the increase in the number of RCTs and systematic reviews over the past few years is encouraging.
Wet-mechanical processing of a plastic-rich two-dimensional-fraction from mixed wastes for chemical recycling
Authors: Selina Möllnitz , Markus Bauer , Daniel Schwabl , Renato Sarc
Published: February 2021

The recycling of source separated polyolefins (POs) (e.g., light weight packaging waste) is already state of the art. Therefore, further plastic materials contained in mixed wastes have become more important due to increasing legal pressure. Mixed commercial and municipal solid wastes contain large quantities of POs. These mixed wastes would usually be treated in waste incinerators or processed to refuse-derived fuel for cement plants. Large-scale experiments were conducted to assess the potential of such POs from these waste streams for recycling processes. The potential and applicability of a dry-mechanical and subsequently wet-mechanical (Wet-mechanical) processing with the aim of generating a PO concentrate for chemical recycling purposes was assessed. These investigations’ focus was put on the centrifugal force separator technology as the core element of Wet-mechanical processing. In addition to the input material, all output materials and process water streams were chemically and physically characterized to estimate potential treatment or recycling paths. Results demonstrate that a two-stage purification is necessary to produce POs with sufficient purity out of both wastes. Chlorine and heavy metal levels are simultaneously reduced. The increased quantity of impurities only slightly changes the density of the process waters. Process water analyses show that wastewater treatment is necessary before discharge into a receiving water or sewage treatment plant. The sediment does not fulfil any hazard-relevant properties, and different thermal treatment options are possible.
Stoicism and Verbal Aggression in Serial Arguments: The Roles of Perceived Power, Perceived Resolvability, and Frequency of Arguments
Authors: Johnson Elle P. , Samp Jennifer A.
Published: February 2021

Impelled by a desire to control, suppress, and deny emotional response, stoic individuals may act out their pent-up emotions on relational partners by provoking conflict and/or engaging in partner-directed violent and aggressive behaviors. However, little is known regarding what factors can push stoics over the edge from remaining quiet or avoiding revealing frustrations to initiating aggressive behavior. This relationship between stoicism and aggression is important to consider in serial arguments, where the repetitive nature of a conflict may become increasingly difficult for stoics to manage internally. Here, we examined the influence of stoicism on verbal aggression in serial arguments between romantic partners. We additionally considered the effects of power, perceived resolvability, and argument frequency on the relationship between stoicism and verbal aggression. Using a survey design with a sample of 281 individuals involved in a romantic relationship, we observed that stoicism is positively associated with verbal aggression in serial arguments. While perceived power and resolvability did not moderate the relationship between stoicism and verbal aggression, argument frequency about a serial argument topic was a significant moderator. The results of this study imply that stoicism plays an important role in explaining aggressive tactics in conflict. A high argument frequency about a conflict topic may lead to a buildup of unexpressed emotions, particularly anger, in stoic individuals, resulting in an explosive release of violence and aggression toward a romantic partner. Unique results on the relationship between stoicism and power and directions for future research are discussed.
The Predictability of Routine Activity Theory for Cyberbullying Victimization Among Children and Youth: Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Aizenkot Dana
Published: February 2021

Cyberbullying has been pervading worldwide with negative implications for victims. Therefore, there is an urgent need to better understand this phenomenon and the factors that predict it, as the basis for effective prevention and intervention efforts. The current research aims to examine routine activity theory (RAT) as a theoretical framework predictive of cyberbullying victimization (CV) among children and youth. It was hypothesized that each of the RAT measures and the convergence of all measures predict CV. Data were collected from 5,719 primary, middle, and high school Israeli students (51.9% females) during the 2019–2020 school year via online questionnaires. Regression and moderation analyses were conducted to assess the predictability of CV from RAT measures, separately and converged. All RAT measures, separately and converged, predict CV. While off-line trust negatively predicts CV, other control variables, that is, online trust, educational institution phase, and gender, do not. Implications for school programs and guidelines for parents address the risk and protective factors of CV found. This study provides support for the predictability of CV from RAT and expands the knowledge of risk and protective factors predictive of CV.
The Impact of COVID-19 Related Lockdown on the Prevalence of Spousal Violence Against Women in Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Authors: Mahmood Kazhan I. , Shabu Sherzad A. , M-Amen Karwan M. , Hussain Salar S. , Kako Diana A. , Hinchliff Sharron , Shabila Nazar P.
Published: February 2021

There is increasing concern about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown’s social and economic consequences on gender-based violence. This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender-based violence by comparing the prevalence of spousal violence against women before and during the COVID-19 related lockdown periods. This study was conducted in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq using a self-administered online questionnaire survey after the COVID-19 lockdown period in June 2020. Data were collected from a sample of 346 married women about the occurrence, frequency, and forms of spousal violence before and during the lockdown period. Significant increases in violence were observed from the pre-lockdown period to the lockdown period for any violence (32.1% to 38.7%, p = .001), emotional abuse (29.5% to 35.0%, p = .005), and physical violence (12.7% to 17.6%, p = .002). Regarding emotional abuse, humiliation (24.6% to 28.3%, p = .041) and scaring or intimidation (14.2% to 21.4%, p < .001) significantly increased during the lockdown. For physical violence, twisting the arm or pulling hair (9.0% to 13.0%, p = .004) and hitting (5.2% to 9.2%, p = .003) significantly increased during the lockdown. Forcing to have sexual intercourse also significantly increased during lockdown (6.6% to 9.5%., p = .021). The concerned authorities and women’s rights organizations should collaborate to enhance the prevention of violence against women. An effective prevention strategy should emphasize recognizing and acknowledging the extent of the problem, raising awareness about the problem and the available resources to address it, and ensuring social and economic stability. Lessons learned about the increased prevalence of spousal violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to adopt appropriate strategies to prevent and address it will be valuable for similar future crises.
Patterns of Genital Sexual Arousal in Transgender Men
Authors: Raines Jamie , Holmes Luke , Watts-Overall Tuesday M. , Slettevold Erlend , Gruia Dragos C. , Orbell Sheina , Rieger Gerulf
Published: February 2021

Most men show genital sexual arousal to one preferred gender. Most women show genital arousal to both genders, regardless of their sexual preferences. There is limited knowledge of whether this difference is driven by biological sex or gender identity. Transgender individuals, whose birth sex and gender identity are incongruent, provide a unique opportunity to address this question. We tested whether the genital responses of 25 (female-to-male) transgender men followed their female birth sex or male gender identity. Depending on their surgical status, arousal was assessed with penile gauges or vaginal plethysmographs. Transgender men’s sexual arousal showed both male-typical and female-typical patterns. Across measures, they responded more strongly to their preferred gender than to the other gender, similar to (but not entirely like) 145 cisgender (nontransgender) men. However, they still responded to both genders, similar to 178 cisgender women. In birth-assigned women, both gender identity and biological sex may influence sexual-arousal patterns.
Reflections on hateful responses to research on hate in the United States
Authors: Medina Richard , Nicolosi Emily , Riley Collin , McNeally Phoebe
Published: February 2021

While researching hate and gaining media attention beginning in 2018, we incurred a good amount of hate toward us and our research in the form of online comments and direct correspondence. Rather than just pass the comments off as general hate, we collected the text and analyzed it in an attempt to better understand the beliefs, perceptions, and arguments of those that rejected our efforts toward gaining knowledge on geographical hate trends. We use content analysis to identify categories of anti-hate research argumentation based on the comments. A discussion is provided on the implications of our findings and insight from our experiences is given.
COVID-19 Pandemic Is About More than Health: A State of Governance Challenges in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Khandakar Farid
Published: February 2021

Governance can help minimise the effects of catastrophes. Countries had some time to prepare for the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, but some did not use it to improve their arrangements. This research investigates several countries’ governance strategies, develops a governance model and critically analyses Bangladesh’s failure as a case of governance catastrophe. This study applies qualitative methods of textual data analysis to explore data sourced from current newspapers, blogs, websites, journal articles and books to determine the most appropriate evidence and generate connections and interpretations. The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating consequences for all countries; however, the different national responses have provided the opportunity to measure governments’ capability in addressing the crisis. Governments need to study the current COVID-19 response and enhance their governance capacities to minimise the spread of infection and to prepare for the challenge of socio-economic recovery.
Human Resources for Health in India: Strategic Options for Transforming Health Systems Towards Improving Health Service Delivery and Public Health
Authors: Zodpey Sanjay , Negandhi Himanshu , Tiwari Ritika
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

The health workforce is the channel for delivering health interventions to populations. A critical mass of health professionals is necessary to manage a health system and is often a crucial limiting factor in the delivery of quality health services. India’s current situation, juxtaposed with its medium-term and long-term HRH (human resources for health) requirements, necessitates reassessing the policy levers that are available at the national level.

Objective:

To suggest strategic options to recommend India’s way forward to meet challenges related to health service delivery and public health with an HRH focus.

Methodology:

We reviewed and compared studies from different countries which focused on strengthening HRH at the national level. A two-step approach towards identifying and selecting HRH strategic options was adopted: desk review and discussions. A list of strategic options for reforming the current state of HRH in India was developed on the basis of lessons learnt from the review. These options were then scored and plotted on a grid (for innovation, disruption, difficulty of implementation, budget for implementation, importance and time period for implementation) in discussion with experts.

Result:

Based on the lessons learnt, eight strategic options were suggested for India: instituting a national HRH body; developing partnership models for the public sector and the private sector; setting benchmark HRH ratios; allocating at least 2.5% of the GDP to health; allocating at least 25% of all development assistance for health to HRH; halving the current levels of disparity in health worker distribution between urban and rural areas; evaluating HRH support through the National Health Mission (NHM); and maintaining a live register of HRH.

Conclusion:

The research is timely as India moves towards the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a particular focus on universal health coverage (UHC) and Ayushman Bharat Yojana. The suggested strategic options for the way forward shall help India in dealing with the current health crisis to emerge with a strong public health system.
Experience shapes future foraging decisions in a brainless organism
Authors: Smith-Ferguson Jules , Burnham Terence C , Beekman Madeleine
Published: February 2021

The ability to change one’s behaviour based on past experience has obvious fitness benefits. Drawing from past experience requires some kind of information storage and retrieval. The acellular slime mould Physarum polycephalum has previously been shown to use stored information about negative stimuli. Here, we repeatedly exposed the slime mould to three stimuli with differing levels of potential risk: light, salt and lavender. We asked if the slime mould would change its foraging behaviour depending on the level of risk. In our experiment, taking risk yielded better food. We consistently selected individuals that made the same foraging decision (accepting risk or avoiding risk) over multiple trials. Hence, the same individuals were tested over a period of time, but only individuals that continued to make the same decision were allowed to continue. Regardless of selection regime, slime moulds in the light became more likely to select the food in the light over time, while those exposed to salt became more salt averse. Lavender had no effect. Our results can cautiously be interpreted as examples of non-associative learning, adding to a growing body of work showing that the absence of a central nervous system is no impediment to possessing sophisticated information processing.