bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Lateral Hinge Fractures After Medial Closing Wedge Distal Femoral Osteotomy: Computed Tomography Versus Plain Radiography
Authors: Nha Kyung Wook , Kim Kun Woo , Bae Ji Hoon , Jang Ki-Mo , Kim Sang-Gyun
Published: August 2021

Background:

Limited evidence exists in the literature regarding the detection rates of lateral hinge fracture (LHF) on computed tomography (CT) after medial closing wedge distal femoral osteotomy (MCDFO). Moreover, the effect of LHF on bone healing after MCDFO remains unclear.

Hypothesis:

The detection rates of LHF after MCDFO would be higher on CT than on plain radiography. The incidence of problematic bone healing would be higher in the knees with LHF than in those without LHF.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis), Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients who underwent MCDFO between May 2009 and July 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The presence of LHF was evaluated using immediate postoperative plain radiography and CT. The detection rates of LHF on plain radiography and CT were compared. The incidence of problematic bone healing (nonunion, delayed union, and loss of correction) was also compared between the knees with LHF and those without LHF.

Results:

A total of 55 knees of 43 patients (mean age, 37.7 ± 16.7 years) were included in the study. Although 33 LHFs were detected on CT, only 19 LHFs were detected on plain radiography. The detection rate of LHF was significantly higher on CT than on plain radiography (60% vs 34.5%; P = .008). At 1-year follow-up, 10 cases of problematic bone healing (1 nonunion, 4 delayed unions, and 5 losses of correction) were identified. The incidence of problematic bone healing was significantly higher in the knees with LHF than in those without LHF as shown on plain radiography (36.8% vs 8.3%; P = .001) and CT (30.3% vs 0%; P = .004).

Conclusion:

LHF can be detected better on CT than on plain radiography and has a negative effect on bone healing after MCDFO. For patients with LHF detected on either plain radiography or CT, careful rehabilitation with close follow-up is recommended.
A “Comma Sign”–Directed Subscapularis Repair in Anterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears Yields Biomechanical Advantages in a Cadaveric Model
Authors: Hackl Michael , Buess Eduard , Kammerlohr Sandra , Nacov Julia , Staat Manfred , Leschinger Tim , Müller Lars P. , Wegmann Kilian
Published: August 2021

Background:

Additional stabilization of the “comma sign” in anterosuperior rotator cuff repair has been proposed to provide biomechanical benefits regarding stability of the repair.

Purpose:

This in vitro investigation aimed to investigate the influence of a comma sign–directed reconstruction technique for anterosuperior rotator cuff tears on the primary stability of the subscapularis tendon repair.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 18 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were used in this study. Anterosuperior rotator cuff tears (complete full-thickness tear of the supraspinatus and subscapularis tendons) were created, and supraspinatus repair was performed with a standard suture bridge technique. The subscapularis was repaired with either a (1) single-row or (2) comma sign technique. A high-resolution 3D camera system was used to analyze 3-mm and 5-mm gap formation at the subscapularis tendon-bone interface upon incremental cyclic loading. Moreover, the ultimate failure load of the repair was recorded. A Mann-Whitney test was used to assess significant differences between the 2 groups.

Results:

The comma sign repair withstood significantly more loading cycles than the single-row repair until 3-mm and 5-mm gap formation occurred ( P≤ .047). The ultimate failure load did not reveal any significant differences when the 2 techniques were compared ( P = .596).

Conclusion:

The results of this study show that additional stabilization of the comma sign enhanced the primary stability of subscapularis tendon repair in anterosuperior rotator cuff tears. Although this stabilization did not seem to influence the ultimate failure load, it effectively decreased the micromotion at the tendon-bone interface during cyclic loading.

Clinical Relevance:

The proposed technique for stabilization of the comma sign has shown superior biomechanical properties in comparison with a single-row repair and might thus improve tendon healing. Further clinical research will be necessary to determine its influence on the functional outcome.
The biomechanical effects of S-type dynamic cage using Ti and PEEK for ACDF surgery on cervical spine varying loads
Authors: Manickam Pechimuthu Susai , Roy Sandipan
Published: August 2021

Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion (ACDF) is the common method to treat the cervical disc degeneration. The most serious problems in the fusion cages are adjacent disc degeneration, loss of lordosis, pain, subsidence, and migration of the cage. The objective of our work is to develop the three-dimensional finite element (FE) model from C3-C6 and virtually implant a designed S-type dynamic cage at C4-C5 segment of the model. The dynamic cage design will provide mobility in the early stage after ACDF surgery. Titanium (Ti) and PEEK (polyether ether ketone) were used as the material property for the cages. We applied the physiological motions at different loads from 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2.0 Nm to evaluate the dynamic cage design and the biomechanical performances of the designed S-type dynamic cage. It was observed that in all the loading condition the range of motion in the adjacent level was maintained and the maximum stress at the adjacent disc was reduced. The clinical significance of the S-type dynamic cage is better stress profile at the fusion level and adjacent segments which translates into higher rate of fusion, lower risk of cage subsidence, lower risk of adjacent segment degeneration, and good mechanical stability.
Acute Kidney Injury During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: VA ECMO Versus VV ECMO
Authors: Mou Zhixiang , He Jinxuan , Guan Tianjun , Chen Lan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been reported to be one of the most common complications in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), yet variations in AKI between different types of ECMO remain unclear. This meta-analysis systematically compares AKI/severe AKI in adult patients requiring different types of ECMO.

Methods

Two authors independently performed a literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase, encompassing publications up until April 20, 2020 (inclusive). The number of AKI patients, including patients who required/did not require renal replacement therapy (RRT), and deceased patients with AKI/severe AKI, who received different types of ECMO were collated and analyzed using STATA.

Results

The results indicated that there were no significant differences in the risk of AKI/severe AKI among different types of ECMO. However, the presence of AKI and severe AKI during veno-arterial (VA) ECMO was more strongly associated with mortality.

Conclusions

Although mortality rates related to AKI/severe AKI during VV ECMO are high, the occurrence of AKI/severe AKI during VA ECMO should be given greater attention, as these instances are considered strong indicators of patient deterioration and even death. Additional studies are needed to corroborate these findings.
Planning, Aging, and Loneliness: Reviewing Evidence About Built Environment Effects
Authors: Lyu Yingying , Forsyth Ann
Published: August 2021

Large numbers of people in many countries report being lonely with rates highest among the very old. Does the built environment affect loneliness among older people and if so, how? Using a scoping review, we examined associations between loneliness and built environments at the block, neighborhood, and city scales. The (1) neighborhood environment has received most attention. Research has also examined (2) urban contexts, (3) housing, and (4) transportation access. Findings are mixed with the stronger evidence that local resources, walkability, overall environment quality, housing options, and nearby transportation alternatives can help combat loneliness.
Comparison of a Self-Care Therapeutics Course Taught in the P1 vs the P2 Year
Authors: Bald Elizabeth M. , Kourtides Demetrius , Cox Nicholas , Raber Hanna , Ruble James H. , Richards Boyd
Published: August 2021

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare student learning outcomes, behaviors, and attitudes in a non-prescription drug and self-care therapeutics course taught in the second professional (P2) year vs the first professional (P1) year at one pharmacy school. Methods: Mean performance of students by class year on case consultations and exam scores was compared. Focus groups with student volunteers and course teaching assistants (TAs) and one-on-one interviews with a subset of instructors were conducted by an outside educational evaluation specialist to capture perceptions of student learning behaviors and attitudes. Results: There was no difference in performance on graded case consultations (mean difference = 0.16, P = .74, 95% CI [−0.77 to 1.09]), mid-term examinations (mean difference = 0.53, P = .62, 95% CI [−1.59 to 2.65]), or final examinations (mean difference = 0.73, P = .57, 95% CI [−1.83 to 3.30]) between P1 and P2 students. P1 students reported being more consistent in completing pre-class readings and in feeling less distracted by other courses than did P2 students. Students, TAs, and instructors consistently spoke about advantages of the course in the P1 year (e.g., less stress and greater eagerness to learn and apply skills at work) and disadvantages in the P2 year (e.g., distraction from concurrent P2 integrated pharmacotherapeutics course and tension between real-world experience and constraints of grading rubric). Conclusion: P1 students, despite one year earlier in their curriculum, performed equally well as P2 students. All stakeholders agree that the advantages of teaching a self-care course on students’ learning behaviors and attitudes in the P1 year outweigh disadvantages.
Thermo-oxidative aging and thermal cycling of PETI-340M composites
Authors: Li Xiaochen , Jin Bo Cheng , Tsotsis Thomas K , Nutt Steven
Published: August 2021

Polyimide composites (PETI-340M) were fabricated and subjected to high-temperature aging and thermal cycling to evaluate resistance to degradation. Mechanical-degradation mechanisms and kinetics depended on aging temperature. Aging at 232°C resulted in strength loss due to polymer degradation, while intra-tow cracking was the dominant mechanism during aging at 288°C. Composite panels subjected to thermal-cycling fatigue (−54°C to 232°C) retained mechanical properties without microcracking. However, in regions containing pre-existing fabrication-induced defects (primarily voids), intra-tow microcracks were observed after thermal cycling. Unlike some polyimide composites (PMR-15), oxidative aging effects during thermal cycling were negligible. The thermo-oxidative stability and the retention of mechanical performance after thermal cycling indicates potential for long-term, high-temperature structural applications.
Lysine-specific demethylase 1 induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition and promoted renal fibrosis through Jagged-1/Notch signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Huali , Xing Jiaming , Zhao Lingwei
Published: August 2021

Objective

TGF-β1-induced excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of tubular epithelial cells play critical roles in the progression of renal fibrosis. We are aimed to explore the effects of lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) in TGF-β1-treated HK-2 cells and in rats with unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

TGF-β1-treated HK-2 cells and UUO-treated rats were used to establish the model of renal fibrosis in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Protein expression of LSD1, E-cadherin, a-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA), Vimentin, Jagged-1, Notch-1 and Notch-2 were detected by Western blot. The concentrations of type I collagen (Col-I) and Fibronectin (FN) were measured by ELISA. Transwell assay were used to assess cell invasion.

Results

LSD1 was dramatically increased in TGF-β1-stimulated HK-2 cells. Knockdown of LSD1 decreased the TGF-β1-induced secretion of Col-I and FN, and suppressed TGF-β1-induced expression of E-cadherin,α-SMA and Vimentin, while suppressed cell invasion. Consistent with the in vitro data, the severe histopathological damage, collagen deposition and reduced E-cadherin, increased α-SMA induced by UUO was abated by the knockdown of LSD1 in vivo. Moreover, knockdown of LSD1 suppressed TGF-β1-induced expression of Jagged-1, Notch-1 and Notch-2. Furthermore, we found that inhibition of Notch signaling by a γ-secretase inhibitor RO4929097 almost recapitulated the effects of LSD1 knockdown in TGF-β1-induced HK-2 cells, and at least in part reversed the effects of LSD1 overexpression on EMT and ECM deposition in HK-2 cells.

Conclusions

Taken together, LSD1 significantly impact on the progression of TGF-β1-mediated EMT and ECM deposition in HK-2 cells, and it may represent novel target for the prevention strategies of renal fibrosis.
From production to consumption-oriented development: New planning strategies in science parks? The case of Sophia-Antipolis
Authors: Grandclement Antoine , Grondeau Alexandre
Published: August 2021

Recent works have highlighted the role of consumption in regional development and questioned the focus on production-oriented approaches in regional planning. To date, consumption-oriented strategies have only been studied in specific cases such as rural areas or urban regeneration projects. This article examines the impact of the growth of consumption-oriented activities on local policymaking processes. To do so, it studies the reshaping of local planning strategies in the science park of Sophia-Antipolis in the context of a growing residential economy. We show that local governments are now questioning traditional production-oriented policies as tensions appear between maintaining the area’s high-tech specialization and meeting the demands of residents for services and amenities. However, production- and consumption-oriented strategies should not be seen as being incompatible. Consumption-oriented strategies aim at reducing the dependence on high-tech activities, but they also contribute to meeting some of the science park’s challenges, such as housing shortages. They also help attract and retain highly skilled executives or engineers in the science park. More than a consumption turn, recent local policies in Sophia mark a shift from a technopolitan production-oriented strategy to a hybrid strategy based on tools embedded in a vast continuum from production-oriented to consumption-oriented strategies.
Resilience in Formal School Education in Vanuatu: A Mismatch with National, Regional and International Policies
Authors: Pierce Charles , Hemstock Sarah
Published: August 2021

Analysis of school curricula in Vanuatu, the world’s most disaster-prone nation, shows that in-depth learning about disasters, and climate change does not occur until the end of secondary education, when only 13% of primary level 1 children are still in school. Furthermore, such education in resilience is confined to optional subjects. We demonstrate that this situation does not match the objectives of Vanuatu’s policies on resilience and sustainable development, the Framework for Resilient Development in the Pacific, nor key international policies, and argue for the inclusion of suitable learning materials at earlier curricular levels.
A systematic review of music-induced substance craving
Authors: Silverman Michael J. , Bourdaghs Sonia , Abbazio Jessica , Riegelman Amy
Published: August 2021

Background:

Conditioning- and cue-induced craving theories indicate that music has the potential to induce substance craving. A better understanding of this phenomenon could enhance treatment and prevent misuse, relapse, and overdose.

Objective:

The purpose of this systematic review was to locate and examine studies using music to induce substance craving in humans. We sought to discover if music can induce substance craving as well as specific aspects of the music and how it was used.

Method:

Adhering to the PRISMA Statement and Checklist, we conducted a systematic review of literature on music-induced substance craving in nine databases. We extracted data from studies meeting our inclusion criteria, which related to substance craving induced by music and data based on music intervention reporting guidelines.

Results:

We reviewed 751 research outputs. A total of 33 articles meeting the inclusion criteria were found, indicating that various types of music can induce alcohol, cannabis, nicotine, and general substance craving. In most of the studies, music was used as a component of a mood induction technique or in a virtual reality setting that led to craving. There tended to be a lack of detail about the music itself and most authors did not adhere to music intervention reporting guidelines. In the majority of studies, the researchers selected the music to induce negative mood states so as to elicit craving.

Conclusion:

Music has the potential to induce substance craving. While the music used in studies varied considerably and tended to be well controlled from a research design perspective, the music was not based on the music psychology literature, and authors did not adequately report essential aspects of the music. Implications for clinical practice, limitations, and suggestions for future research are provided.
The emergence of double-entry bookkeeping in Tuscan firms of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries
Authors: Orlandi Angela
Published: August 2021

This study considers developments that led to the introduction and diffusion of double-entry bookkeeping in Tuscany in the late-thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. We examine the evolution of the four basic account books (debtors and creditors, cash, merchandise and moveable property), which, together with the capital account, established the basis of the accounting method. We reconstruct the social context of Tuscany to highlight how specific cultural factors, such as risk appetite and entrepreneurial spirit, fostered the creation of companies attentive to organisational modes of work and the valorisation of human capital. These elements, combined with an innate pragmatism of economic operators, produced innovation in the field of accounting as well. Accountants and firm managers were able to establish the double-entry bookkeeping method, which was not the result of abstract rules but rather of gradual evolution. Accounting systems can thus be considered as reflections of the society and the organisations in which they developed and spread.
A three-dimensional numerical model for delaminations, transverse crack or debonding in composite sandwich plates with piezoelectric sensors
Authors: Wu Yaogang , Xiao Zhengguang , Liu Kangwei , Li Dinghe
Published: August 2021

An Extended Layerwise/Solid-Element (XLW/SE) method is developed based on the Extended Layerwise method (XLWM) and eight-node solid element method for the static analysis of damaged composite sandwich structures with piezoelectric sensor. In this method, the XLWM is used to model the facesheets and piezoelectric sensors, and the eight-node solid element is used for the lattice. Based on the equilibrium conditions of displacement and internal force of the overlapped joints at the facesheet/sensors and facesheet/lattice interfaces, the general governing equation is established. In the numerical examples, the proposed method is verified by comparing with the 3D elasticity model developed in the commercial finite element software, and composite sandwich plates with delamination and/or transverse crack and/or debonding are analyzed.
“But When Are We Going to Learn the Real Do?” Toward Learner-Centered Pitch Practices in U.S. Music Classrooms
Authors: Scarlato Mya Katherine Magnusson , Kim Yeji
Published: August 2021

While the field of music education is rife with participation in methodological debates around “best systems” for learning about pitch, the authors in this article explore the possibilities of learner-centered approaches to teaching pitch among students with diverse music backgrounds. Specifically, the article highlights several challenges faced by the students with fixed pitch backgrounds in U.S. music classrooms: confusion around solfège syllables used to represent both movable and fixed pitch systems, and difficulty in transitioning between fixed and movable systems regardless of the symbolic language used. The authors offer a variety of research-based recommendations for deepening students' understandings of pitch in light of these challenges and emphasize the necessity for a learner-centered approach to pitch pedagogy in U.S. music classrooms. The purpose of this article is to (1) help practicing teachers understand more deeply and empathize with the nature of confusion students with fixed pitch backgrounds might experience in American music classrooms, and (2) develop pedagogical strategies that are sensitive to the experiences of these students while working to deepen understanding of pitch.
Predictive Factors for Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Following Primary Cleft Palate Repair
Authors: Anderson Brady J. , Fallah Kasra N. , Lignieres Austin A. , Moffitt Joseph K. , Luu Kim-Loan , Cepeda Alfredo , Doringo Irene L. , Nguyen Phuong D. , Teichgraeber John F. , Greives Matthew R.
Published: August 2021

Objective:

Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) remains a known complication of primary palatoplasty. We sought to identify factors associated with the incidence of VPI and create a predictive model for VPI development in our population.

Design:

A single-institution, retrospective review.

Setting:

Multidisciplinary clinic in a tertiary academic institution.

Patients:

A total of 453 consecutive patients undergoing primary palatoplasty from 1999 to 2016 were reviewed. Inclusion required follow-up past age 5. Patients who were non-verbal, and thus unable to undergo speech evaluation, were excluded.

Main Outcome Measures:

Primary outcome was VPI, defined as revision palatoplasty or recommendation by speech-language pathology.

Results:

Of 318 patients included, 179 (56%) were male. Median age at primary repair was 1.0 years (0.9-1.1) with a median age of 8.8 years at last follow-up. One hundred nineteen (37%) patients developed VPI at a median age of 5.0 years (3.8-6.5). Higher rates were seen with posterior fistula (65% vs 14%, P <.01) and straight-line repair (41% vs 9%, P <.01), with lower rates in patients with Veau I clefts (22% vs 39%, P <.05). Patients with VPI were older at last follow-up. Following multivariate regression, factors remaining significant were posterior fistula (odds ratio [OR]: 11.3, 95% CI: 6.1-22.0), primary Furlow repair (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.03-0.68), genetic diagnoses (OR: 2.92, 95% CI: 1.1-7.9), and age at last follow-up (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.01-1.2).

Conclusions:

Length of follow-up, posterior fistulae, and genetic diagnoses are associated with VPI formation. Furlow repair may protect against formation of VPI. Use of allograft, Veau class, birth type, birth weight, and race are not independently associated with VPI formation.
Comparative Assessment of Anxiety, Pain, and Discomfort During Rapid Maxillary Expansion Using Two Different Activation Protocols in Patients With Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Baruah Dipjyoti , Nagesh Shweta , Sarma Hiteswar , Mattu Navraj
Published: August 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare and assess the pain perception, anxiety, and discomfort between two different rapid maxillary expansion (RME) protocols in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP).

Design

This is a prospective study.

Setting

The study was done in a comprehensive cleft care center.

Patien and Participants

The sample included 26 patients between ages 6 and 9 years with a history of repaired UCLP.

Interventions

The patients were randomly allotted into 2 groups—Group A and Group B. Group A received 1 RME activation per day and Group B received 2 activations per day. The participants after RME activation completed a self-report questionnaire and ranked the pain and anxiety levels using Faces pain scale and Hamilton anxiety scale, respectively. The evaluation was done every day for 1 week.

Main Outcome Measure

The Faces Pain Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Scale, and self-report questionnaires assessed the pain, anxiety, and discomfort experienced by the patients after 2 different types of RME activation protocols.

Results

Group B experienced significantly higher pain in the molars than Group A ( P < .001). There was no significant difference between the 2 RME activation protocols regarding anxiety and jaw discomfort.

Conclusion

Patients who received 2 activations per day experienced significantly higher levels of pain in the molars compared to the patients who received a single activation per day. There were no significant differences between the 2 activation protocols in terms of pain in the palate, tongue, anxiety, and jaw discomfort.
Phenotype Analysis and Genetic Study of Chinese Patients With Treacher Collins Syndrome
Authors: Lu Meng , Yang Bin , Chen Zixiang , Jiang Haiyue , Pan Bo
Published: August 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to confirm the pathogenic variants, explore the genotype–phenotype correlation and characteristics of Chinese patients with Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS).

Design

Clinical details of 3 TCS family cases and 2 sporadic cases were collected and analyzed. Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were conducted to detect causative variants.

Setting

Tertiary clinical care.

Patients

This study included 8 patients clinically diagnosed with TCS who were from 3 familial cases and 2 sporadic cases.

Main Outcome Measures

When filtering the database, variants were saved as rare variants if their frequency were less than 0.005 in the 1000 Genomes Project Database, the Exome Aggregation Consortium (ExAC) browser, and the Novogene database, or they would be removed as common ones. The pathogenic variants identified were verified by polymerase chain reaction. The sequencing results were analyzed by Chromas 2.1 software.

Results

Two novel pathogenic variants (NM_000356.3: c.537del and NM_000356.3: c.1965_1966dupGG) and 2 known pathogenic variants (NM_000356.3: c.1535del, NM_000356.3: c.4131_4135del) were identified within TCOF1 which are predicted to lead to premature termination codons resulting in a truncated protein. There was a known missense SNP (NM_015972.3: c.139G>A) within POLR1D. No phenotype–genotype correlation was observed. Instead, these 8 patients demonstrated the high genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity of TCS.

Conclusions

This study expands on the pathogenic gene pool of Chinese patients with TCS. Besides the great variation among patients which is similar to international reports, Chinese patients have their own characteristics in clinical phenotype and pathogenesis mutations.
The Impact of Peer Groups and Routine Activities on the Victim-Offender Overlap: Evidence From a German Study on Youth Crime
Authors: Erdmann Anke
Published: August 2021

Despite the substantive evidence on the victim-offender overlap from various national contexts, comprehensive examinations for Germany are lacking. This article provides insights into peer group-related correlates of the victim-offender overlap by specifically differentiating the roles of victims, offenders, and victim-offenders. The analysis examines risk factors for involvement in violence using a sample of 3,519 14- and 16-year-old students from a large crime study conducted in Germany. Applying multinomial logistic regression, the risk of being a victim-only, offender-only, or victim-offender is predicted by peer group characteristics such as frequency of meeting, group composition, delinquent norms, and routine activities with friends. The results show that proximity to friends and delinquent norms of peers significantly influence victimization, offending, and the victim-offender overlap. Regarding group composition, violent offending and being a victim-offender occurred more often in male-dominated mixed-gender friend groups, whereas victimization risk is not affected by group composition. Frequent alcohol consumption within the group is associated with victimization risk and the victim-offender overlap, whereas going out is associated with offending and the overlap. The findings underline that the peer context is not only of importance for explaining delinquency but also for unraveling victimization and the victim-offender overlap.
Influence of Parenting Styles and Peer Attachment on Life Satisfaction Among Adolescents: Mediating Role of Self-Esteem
Authors: Aziz Mudasir , Khan Waheeda , Amin Faseeh , Khan Mohammad Furqan
Published: August 2021

Both parenting and peer relationship are essential in the formation of self-esteem among the adolescents which lead to overall psychological development. Life satisfaction is another outcome that describes the subjective well-being of any person and the quality of one’s life. Literature has already suggested the importance of parenting and peer relationships in the development of self-esteem which may lead to life satisfaction among adolescents. However, the relationship between three styles of parenting as well as peer attachment and life satisfaction mediated by self-esteem seems to be missing from the literature. This work is an important attempt toward fulfilling this research gap with respect to adolescents. The data were collected from 500 respondents which resulted in 412 functional responses. Structural equation modeling method was used to test the relationship in the study. The results revealed that both authoritative and permissive parenting have a positive influence on self-esteem in comparison to the negative influence of authoritarian parenting. Peer attachment also has an affirmative impact on self-esteem. Self-esteem also positively influences life satisfaction. Mediation results revealed that self-esteem partially mediates the association between three parenting styles, peer attachment, and life satisfaction. This study may offer unique insights to family counselors, couple counselors, and family educators about the role of different parenting styles and peer attachment with respect to the development of children’s self-esteem and life satisfaction. These results are also important for psychologists, sociologists, and other specialists with respect to understanding these factors for the well-being of adolescents.
Literacy and Identity Development of Indigenous Rukai Children
Authors: Hsin Ching-Ting , Yu Chih Ying
Published: August 2021

This study examines the development of literacy and identity for young Indigenous Taiwanese children using ethnographic methods and the theories of multiple literacies, Indigenous knowledge, and identity construction, and it provides insights into the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge and literacies to create hybrid literacy spaces. Focused-upon participants included four 6-year-old Rukai-tribe children—two who lived in a city and two who lived in a village—and their families and teachers. We found that all children learned literacies in culturally meaningful contexts that involved stories and hybrid literacy practices, Indigenous foods, religious activities, traditional life skills, Indigenous language, and multiple forms of text. The two city children developed Rukai knowledge and literacies through performance-based contexts, whereas the village children learned through authentic contexts (e.g., observing farming and hunting). The literacy and identity of the two city children may be undermined due to limited access to Rukai resources, stemming from racism, classism, and linguicism.
The role of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV in abdominal aortic aneurysm pathogenesis: A systematic review
Authors: Ngetich Elisha , Lapolla Pierfrancesco , Chandrashekar Anirudh , Handa Ashok , Lee Regent
Published: August 2021

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an important vascular disease carrying significant mortality implications due to the risk of aneurysm rupture. Current management relies exclusively on surgical repair as there is no effective medical therapy. A key element of AAA pathogenesis is the chronic inflammation mediated by inflammatory cells releasing proteases, including the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV). This review sought to recapitulate available evidence on the involvement of DPP-IV in AAA development. Further, we assessed the experimental use of currently available DPP-IV inhibitors for AAA management in murine models. Embase, Medline, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were utilised to access the relevant studies. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). A narrative synthesis approach was used. Sixty-four studies were identified from the searched databases; a final 11 were included in the analysis. DPP-IV was reported to be significantly increased in both AAA tissue and plasma of patients and correlated with AAA growth. DPP-IV inhibitors (sitagliptin, vildagliptin, alogliptin, and teneligliptin) were all shown to attenuate AAA formation in murine models by reducing monocyte differentiation, the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9). DPP-IV seems to play a role in AAA pathogenesis by propagating the inflammatory microenvironment. This is supported by observations of decreased AAA formation and reduction in macrophage infiltration, ROS, matrix MMPs, and interleukins following the use of DPP-IV inhibitors in murine models. There is an existing translational gap from preclinical observations to clinical trials in this important and novel mechanism of AAA pathogenesis. This prior literature highlights the need for further research on molecular targets involved in AAA formation.
The long arm of childhood: The prolonged influence of adverse childhood experiences on depression during middle and old age in China
Authors: Chen Hao , Fan Qiuyan , Nicholas Stephen , Maitland Elizabeth
Published: August 2021

Utilizing data from the nationally representative China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study analyzed the effect of intensity and duration of adverse childhood experiences on depression in middle aged and older aged adults in China. The mediating effect of cumulative health risk and personal factors were validated through the Karlson–Holm–Breen method. The results showed a significant dose-response relationship between adverse childhood experiences and adult depression. The elevated health risks of chronic diseases, disabilities, and physical pain, as well as the disadvantages in education, employment, and economic status caused by the adverse childhood experiences indirectly worsen adult depression.
A novel objective oriented methodology for marine engine–turbocharger matching
Authors: Mizythras Panagiotis , Boulougouris Evangelos , Theotokatos Gerasimos
Published: August 2021

The matching of the turbocharging system with a marine engine is an essential undertaking due to the turbocharger effects on the engine performance, emissions and response, whilst the limited data availability during the ship design phase renders it challenging. This study aims at developing a novel methodology for the matching of a single turbocharger and multiple turbochargers connected in parallel with marine engines. This methodology employs a compressor parametric modelling tool and a zero-dimensional engine model, whilst taking into account the engine operational profile and the turbocharger components flow limitations. The compressor parametric tool is used for the generation of a database with compressor families that can be investigated during the matching procedure. The model of one engine cylinder block is used for mapping the engine performance parameters at a wide engine operating envelope by developing response surfaces. The developed methodology is implemented for the case study of the turbocharger matching with the propulsion engine of an Aframax tanker. The annual fuel consumption and the engine load diagram upper limit are employed as the main objectives for the selection the turbocharging system. The derived results demonstrate that the effective turbocharger matching results in reducing the engine brake specific fuel consumption up to 5%. The identified turbochargers led to the reduction of the ship annual fuel consumption in the range 1.3%–5.3% compared to the reference engine, whilst providing a more expanded load diagram. This study overcomes the limitations of the manual engine turbocharger–matching process providing decision support on the effective turbocharger matching to satisfy contradictory objectives.
StoryFacets: A design study on storytelling with visualizations for collaborative data analysis
Authors: Park Deokgun , Suhail Mohamed , Zheng Minsheng , Dunne Cody , Ragan Eric , Elmqvist Niklas
Published: August 2021

Tracking the sensemaking process is a well-established practice in many data analysis tools, and many visualization tools facilitate overview and recall during and after exploration. However, the resulting communication materials such as presentations or infographics often omit provenance information for the sake of simplicity. This unfortunately limits later viewers from engaging in further collaborative sensemaking or discussion about the analysis. We present a design study where we introduced visual provenance and analytics to urban transportation planning. Maintaining the provenance of all analyses was critical to support collaborative sensemaking among the many and diverse stakeholders. Our system, STORYFACETS, exposes several different views of the same analysis session, each view designed for a specific audience: (1) the trail view provides a data flow canvas that supports in-depth exploration + provenance (expert analysts); (2) the dashboard view organizes visualizations and other content into a space-filling layout to support high-level analysis (managers); and (3) the slideshow view supports linear storytelling via interactive step-by-step presentations (laypersons). Views are linked so that when one is changed, provenance is maintained. Visual provenance is available on demand to support iterative sensemaking for any team member.
Ethical considerations and clinical trials during a pandemic: A blessing with a burden
Authors: Ramesh Madhan , Syed Jehath , Sri Harsha Chalasani
Published: August 2021

Any healthcare systems during a pandemic undergo tremendous pressure in pursuit of effective treatment to treat and limit the spread of the disease and its implications. Conducting clinical trials to find the potential therapy is the only way to battle the current coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic. The majority of the countries have joined the cause and are carrying out clinical studies in various capacities. As a result, the ethical committees have encountered a sudden inflow of a large number of trial proposals that have placed them under pressure. Although ethical committees play a vital role in protecting patient safety and preserving research integrity, they need to make sure the efficiency and integrity of review are preserved and the standards of review are not relaxed. Thus, the participants’ dignity is well guarded while keeping a close check on their safety.
Hybrid Surgical Approach to a Giant Post-Coarctation Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Di Domenico Rossella , Fargion Aaron Thomas , Speziali Sara , Petroni Rachele , Villani Flavio , Esposito Davide , Pratesi Carlo
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To report a rare case of giant aortic coarctation (CoA)-related descending thoracic aneurysmal degeneration, complicated by an acute aortic dissection.

Case Report:

A 57-year-old man referred with acute chest pain to the emergency department. A computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed a CoA with a giant post-stenotic descending thoracic aneurysm (14 cm) and a concomitant left subclavian artery (LSA) aneurysm, complicated by an acute type B aortic dissection. A single-stage hybrid procedure was planned in an urgent setting. Initially, a left common carotid-to-left subclavian artery (LCCA-LSA) bypass was performed to gain a suitable proximal landing zone, the procedure was then completed with 3 thoracic endografts and 1 aortic dissection stent through a percutaneous femoral approach. The patient was discharged in postoperative day 8th without complications; the CTA performed at 1 month demonstrated patency of supra-aortic and visceral vessels, dilation of CoA site and exclusion of the false lumen.

Conclusions:

CoA is a congenital malformation rarely found in adults that may represent a challenge for the surgeon, especially when combined with a complication like an acute aortic dissection. This case shows that a hybrid approach is a safe and feasible treatment option even in such complex anatomies.
Computational Investigation and Histopathological Validation of Interaction Between Stent Graft and Aorta in Retrograde Type A Dissection After TEVAR in Canine Models
Authors: Ma Tao , Zhou Min , Meng Zhuang Yuan , Wang Shengzhang , Dong Zhi Hui , Fu Wei Guo
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

Retrograde type A dissection (RTAD) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has been a major drawback of endovascular treatment. To our knowledge, no studies have simulated and validated aortic injuries caused by stent grafts (SGs) in animal models. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify the SG–aorta interaction through computational simulations and to investigate the underlying mechanism through histopathological examinations.

Methods:

Two custom-made Fabulous® (DiNovA Meditech, Hang Zhou, China) SGs were implanted in 2 canine aortas with a 5-mm difference in the distance in landing locations. The aortic geometries were extracted from RTAD and non-RTAD cases. A computational SG model was assembled based on the implanted SG using the software Pro-ENGINEER Wildfire 5.0 (PTC Corporation, Needham, Mass). TEVAR simulations were performed 7 times for each canine model using Abaqus software (Providence, RI, USA), and the maximum aortic stress (MAS) was calculated and compared among the groups. Three months after SG implantation, the canine aortas were harvested, and were examined using hematoxylin and eosin staining and Elastica Van Gieson (EVG) staining to evaluate histopathological changes.

Results:

In the computational models for both canines, MAS was observed at the proximal bare stent (PBS) at aortic greater curve. The PBS generated higher stress toward the aortic wall than other SG parts did. Moreover, the MAS was significantly higher in canine No.1 than in canine No.2 (0.415±0.210 versus 0.200±0.160 MPa) (p<0.01). Notably, in canine No.1, an RTAD developed at the MAS segment, and histopathological examinations of the segment showed an intimal flap, a false lumen, elastin changes, and medial necrosis. RTAD was not observed in canine No.2. In both SG-covered aortas, medial necrosis, elastic fiber stretching, and inflammatory infiltration were seen.

Conclusion:

The characteristic MAS distribution remained at the location where the apex of the PBS interacted with the aortic wall at greater curve. RTAD histopathological examinations showed intimal damage and medial necrosis at the proximal landing zone, at the same MAS location in computational simulations. The in vivo results were consistent with the computational simulations, suggesting the MAS at greater curve may cause RTAD, and the potential application of computational simulation in the mechanism study of RTAD.
Improved tear resistance by low environmental impact coupling of plasma reactive and additive treatment of a TPU/PET coated fabric
Authors: Nuez Lucile , Jacquot Pierre-Baptiste , Léger Romain , Ienny Patrick , Perrin Didier
Published: August 2021

An environmentally friendly approach, which consists in coupling a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) based atmospheric plasma treatment with a coating of an aqueous phase polyurethane dispersion (PUD) containing blocked polyisocyanates, is proposed to improve the adhesion of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film onto a poly-(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) textile fabric. In this study, a screening digital design of experiment plan (DOE) was developed to determine the influence of process parameters on the adhesion between film and fabric and to evaluate the best possible adhesion value. The process parameters considered are: the dielectric barrier discharge power, the speed of the fabric undergoing the treatment, the concentration of polyisocyanates (NCO) in the PUD and the air gap. The adhesion was measured by a peeling test and further scanning electron microscope observations were carried out. Results showed that an increase of both the processing power and the NCO content in PUD, as well as the decrease in the DBD speed, had a positive effect on the adhesion. In addition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact angle measurements demonstrated an increase in the oxygen/carbon atomic percentage ratio between the reference fabric and the treated fabric. Thus, the calibrated oxidation of the PET treated with DBD plasma treatment leads to a greater chemical and physical interaction with the TPU film, which results in better film-fabric adhesion.
Clinical Target Volume Auto-Segmentation of Esophageal Cancer for Radiotherapy After Radical Surgery Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Cao Ruifen , Pei Xi , Ge Ning , Zheng Chunhou
Published: August 2021

Radiotherapy plays an important role in controlling the local recurrence of esophageal cancer after radical surgery. Segmentation of the clinical target volume is a key step in radiotherapy treatment planning, but it is time-consuming and operator-dependent. This paper introduces a deep dilated convolutional U-network to achieve fast and accurate clinical target volume auto-segmentation of esophageal cancer after radical surgery. The deep dilated convolutional U-network, which integrates the advantages of dilated convolution and the U-network, is an end-to-end architecture that enables rapid training and testing. A dilated convolution module for extracting multiscale context features containing the original information on fine texture and boundaries is integrated into the U-network architecture to avoid information loss due to down-sampling and improve the segmentation accuracy. In addition, batch normalization is added to the deep dilated convolutional U-network for fast and stable convergence. In the present study, the training and validation loss tended to be stable after 40 training epochs. This deep dilated convolutional U-network model was able to segment the clinical target volume with an overall mean Dice similarity coefficient of 86.7% and a respective 95% Hausdorff distance of 37.4 mm, indicating reasonable volume overlap of the auto-segmented and manual contours. The mean Cohen kappa coefficient was 0.863, indicating that the deep dilated convolutional U-network was robust. Comparisons with the U-network and attention U-network showed that the overall performance of the deep dilated convolutional U-network was best for the Dice similarity coefficient, 95% Hausdorff distance, and Cohen kappa coefficient. The test time for segmentation of the clinical target volume was approximately 25 seconds per patient. This deep dilated convolutional U-network could be applied in the clinical setting to save time in delineation and improve the consistency of contouring.
Transgender Depictions in Film and Television
Authors: Kirchoff Alisha , Rojas Fabio
Published: August 2021

This interview with Disclosure director Sam Feder and producer Amy Scholder takes a deep dive into the development of the critically acclaimed film highlighting transgender representation in Hollywood.