bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“No Way! Like Only Hispanics are Illegal”: Examining the Racialized Psychosocial Development of Migrant “Illegality” Across Immigrant Groups in the United States
Authors: Ellis Basia Daria , Offidani-Bertrand Carly , Ferrera Maria Joy
Published: January 2022

Building on recent studies of “racialized illegality,” this paper examines the psychosocial development of migrant “illegality” in a sample of ethnically and racially diverse immigrant young people. In-depth interviews and fieldnotes were collected in Chicago with White, Asian and Pacific Islander, and Latina/o immigrants ( N = 43; 14–33 years of age; 15 male, 28 female) who were undocumented and/or grew up in families with at least one undocumented parent, and who were asked to reflect on these experiences. Drawing upon the cycles of deportability framework, we theorize the psychosocial development of migrant “illegality” as a dynamic process driven by repeated, cyclical experiences with status-related stressors that regularly prompt acute fears as well as carry long-term psychosocial effects. Examining these cycles within our respondents’ reflections, we find discernible differences in both the types of status-related stressors and contexts of support experienced by Latina/o and non-Latina/o respondents, pointing to different cycles of deportability that vary along racial-ethnic lines. We maintain that these findings reflect the racialized context of migrant “illegality” in the United States, which targets primarily Latina/o migrants, as well as points to the need for increased supports for undocumented immigrants in non-Latina/o immigrant communities.
Long-Term Imaging Reveals a Circadian Rhythm of Intracellular Chloride in Neurons of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
Authors: Klett Nathan J. , Cravetchi Olga , Allen Charles N.
Published: January 2022

Both inhibitory and excitatory GABA transmission exist in the mature suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the master pacemaker of circadian physiology. Whether GABA is inhibitory or excitatory depends on the intracellular chloride concentration ([Cl−]i). Here, using the genetically encoded ratiometric probe Cl-Sensor, we investigated [Cl−]i in AVP and VIP-expressing SCN neurons for several days in culture. The chloride ratio (RCl) demonstrated circadian rhythmicity in AVP + neurons and VIP + neurons, but was not detected in GFAP + astrocytes. RCl peaked between ZT 7 and ZT 8 in both AVP + and VIP + neurons. RCl rhythmicity was not dependent on the activity of several transmembrane chloride carriers, action potential generation, or the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels, but was sensitive to GABA antagonists. We conclude that [Cl−]i is under circadian regulation in both AVP + and VIP + neurons.
Nanostructured-lipid carriers-Chitosan hydrogel beads carrier system for loading of resveratrol: A new method of topical application
Authors: Wu Bi , Li Yang , Li Yuan Y , Shi Zhi H , Bian Xiao H , Xia Qiang
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to develop nanostructured-lipid carriers (NLC) encapsulated by Chitosan hydrogel beads for the efficient topical carrier. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) were conducted to study the influence of the encapsulation on the characteristic of resveratrol-loaded NLC, and the results showed that there was no impact on resveratrol-loaded NLC. Chitosan hydrogel beads could significantly improve the physical stability of resveratrol-loaded NLC. In vitro release study revealed that resveratrol-loaded NLC-Chitosan hydrogel beads had a more significant sustained-release effect on resveratrol. In vitro transdermal studies suggested that the skin permeation of resveratrol was promoted by the effect of Chitosan hydrogel beads and increased resveratrol distribution in the skin. In vitro cytotoxicity showed that resveratrol-loaded NLC-Chitosan hydrogel beads did not exert a hazardous effect on L929 cells. Hence, NLC-Chitosan hydrogel beads might be a promising method for topical applications of resveratrol.
Sexual Violence and Nonconsensual Experiences Among Alt-Sex Communities’ Members
Authors: Wright Susan , Bowling Jessamyn , McCabe Sean , Benson James Kevin , Stambaugh Russell , Cramer Robert J.
Published: January 2022

Background

As behaviors, alternative sexual (alt-sex) (i.e., kink, bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism, and masochism , consensual non-monogamy, swinging, leather, and fetish practices) practitioners often emphasize that consent and boundaries are key elements of alt-sex activities. Despite these emphases, individuals experience consent violations and sexual assault both prior to engaging and during their involvement in alt-sex activities.

Purpose

This study examines alt-sex practitioners’ sexual assault and nonconsensual experiences in order to highlight potential means of intervention and prevention, as well as inform clinical and legal professionals.

Methods

In collaboration with the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom, this study uses an international survey of adults in alt-sex communities ( N = 2996) to examine sexual assault and nonconsensual experiences both within and outside of alt-sex contexts.

Results

We found a lower rate of consent violations in the alt-sex community (26%) compared to sexual assault as an adult outside of alt-sex contexts (34%) and sexual assault as a minor (40%). We found significant differences by groups in sexual assault as a minor (gender, sexual orientation, age, and live in the US or not), sexual assault outside of alt-sex contexts (gender, sexual orientation, and age), nonconsensual experiences in alt-sex contexts (gender, sexual orientation, age, and race), receiving nonconsensual touch in alt-sex contexts (gender, sexual orientation, and age), giving nonconsensual touch in alt-sex contexts (sexual orientation, age, living in the US or not, and race), and being falsely accused of nonconsensual touching in alt-sex contexts (gender, age, and living in the US or not). Within the most recent consent violation, the most common behaviors were non-kink related, except for lack of aftercare. Nearly 40% of participants reported the reasons for their most recent consent violation in alt-sex contexts were being selfish or caught up in the moment.

Implications

Focused interventions are needed to address how different populations are experiencing assault and violations in alt-sex contexts.
The failure behavior of buckling pin valve: Theoretical, numerical, and experimental study
Authors: Zhang Yanwen , Che Jiaqi , Yu Changlu , Wang Hanxiang , Du Mingchao
Published: January 2022

At present, buckling pin in the bypass of piping as pressure relief valve has been gradually utilized in the low-concentration coal-bed methane (CBM), which bends to release pressure when the main valve fails leading to pipeline blockage. However, current researches mainly focused on the buckling behavior of hydraulic cylinder rod or rod string, and less consideration was given to the operational reliability of buckling pin valves. This paper deduced the calculation formula of the critical failure load based on Euler formula in the buckling pin under buckling load. Besides, three finite element models (FEM) based on Johnson−Cook constitutive model were compared to predict failure strength of buckling pin which were verified by experiment. In addition, the defect sensitivity analysis of the buckling pin under different initial geometric defects rate was carried out. The results showed that a) the experimental value of the critical failure load in the buckling pin was 206.04 N and the bending position was in the middle of the buckling pin; b) the analysis result adopting explicit dynamic method was in best agreement with the experimental results within deviation of 0.24%; and c) the initial geometric defect of buckling pin should be controlled within 1%. This study provides an important reference to predict the critical failure load of the buckling pin valve and achieve safe transportation of low-concentration CBM.
Improving machining stability of AISI-4140 with magnetic field
Authors: Sofuoglu Mehmet Alper , Çakir Fatih Hayati
Published: January 2022

Several methods have been developed in order to improve the traditional machining processes and machining outputs. In this study, the effect of the magnetic field on the turning process was investigated. AISI-4140 was machined with different cutting speeds and magnetic flux density magnitudes. The magnetic field was generated with neodymium magnets. Machining stability, surface roughness, and maximum cutting temperature were measured. Additionally, chip shapes were examined. The machining stability was determined by measuring the vibration amplitude and other vibrational parameters (natural frequency, stiffness, and damping coefficients). Conventional turning and magnetic assisted turning were performed under the same cutting parameters consecutively, and the results were compared. According to the results, it was observed that neodymium magnets attached to the cutting tool improve machining stability and damping properties. Surface roughness was decreased between 6%–10% in magnetic assisted turning. Furthermore, it has been observed that the maximum cutting temperatures have been increased between 10%–45% in the magnetic assisted machining. Besides, it can be said that magnets contribute to improving chip control by collecting the chips on them while machining AISI-4140 steel.
Optimization of the transmission characteristics of an HMCVT for a high-powered tractor based on an improved NSGA-II algorithm
Authors: Li Jiang , Zhai Zhiqiang , Song Zhansheng , Fu Shenghui , Zhu Zhongxiang , Mao Enrong
Published: January 2022

The hydro-mechanical continuously variable transmission (HMCVT) is a critical component of the power transmission system in a tractor. However, the complexity of the operating conditions imposes high requirements on the transmission characteristics. To improve the powerful performance and economy of HMCVTs and satisfy the operational demands of high-powered tractors, a new optimization design method for the characteristic parameters of an HMCVT is proposed. First, the characteristics of an HMCVT are modeled, and the influence of the structural parameters on the transmission characteristics is analyzed. Then, HMCVT performance evaluation indexes are formulated. In accordance with the speed regulation of system, power performance, and economy characteristics, a multi-objective optimization mathematical model is established, and an improved fast non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (INSGA-II) is designed. The introduction of a normal distribution crossover operator (NDX) and an improved adaptive adjustment mutation operator not only ensures the population diversity but also improves the Pareto solution convergence properties during the process of genetic evolution. The superiority of INSGA-II is verified by comparison with a traditional multi-objective genetic algorithm. Finally, the optimization results show that the torque ratio is increased by approximately 2.81%, 14.32%, 2.31%, and 15.07% in HM1, HM2, HM3, and HM4 respectively. The transmission efficiency is increased by approximately 3.48% and 1.97% in HM1 (HM3) and HM2 (HM4). Also, INSGA-II finds the optimal solution with a faster speed and shorter optimization time than MULGA. This research can serve as a reference for the design and optimization of HMCVTs for high-powered tractors.
A comparison of information behavior studies in United States and India: Number of publications, authorship, journals, theories, research populations, and methods
Authors: Kumar Vinit , Lund Brady
Published: January 2022

This study compares attributes (authors, journals, populations, theories, methods) of information seeking behavior studies based in the United States and India, based on a search of published articles from 2011 to 2020 in relevant information science databases. The findings indicate major differences in information behavior research among the two countries. Information behavior research in the United States tends to focus more on health and medicine-related research populations, employ greater use of information behavior theories, and use a variety of quantitative and qualitative research methods (as well as mixed methods). Information behavior research in India tends to focus more on general populations, use less theory, and rely heavily on quantitative research methods—particularly questionnaires (88% of studies). These findings suggest a healthy and intellectually-diverse information behavior research area in the United States and ample room for growth of the research area within India.
A Case of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia due to 3-Beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Deficiency Presented With Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Alpini Sarah , Vereen Rasheda J. , Quinn Amy
Published: January 2022

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of rare autosomal disorders characterized by a variety of defects in adrenal steroidogenesis. Most cases of CAH are due to an enzyme deficiency in either 21-hydroxylase or 11-beta-hydroxylase. A much rarer form of CAH due to 3-betahydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3B-HSD) deficiency results in impaired synthesis of all steroid hormones. The clinical presentation of undervirilization in 46 XY patients, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and recurrent hypoglycemia in 3B-HSD deficiency cases is well described in the literature. We describe a neonate with 3B-HSD deficiency that presented with ambiguous genitalia and hypoglycemia and was found to have comorbid coagulopathy, cholestasis, and direct hyperbilirubinemia with liver failure that resolved with glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid treatment. Prompt recognition of this disease is imperative for timely intervention.
Impact of Rural Roads in India: A Case Study Based on Spatial Data Analysis
Authors: Naspoori Sudhir Kumar , Mandla Venkata Ravibabu , Rao P. Kesava , Prasad N. S. R. , Reddy A. V. Krishna , Sylesh Peddinti Veerendra Satya
Published: January 2022

The Government of India launched its National Rural Roads Program known as Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to connect the 167 thousand unconnected villages in the country by all-weather roads to improve connectivity there. It is important to study the impact of such intervention on various socio-economic indicators of rural development there. This study assesses the impact of those roads on the different aspects of rural community. The assessment has been completed based on spatial visualisation of the impact created by various facility parameters in rural development using various questionnaires formed and applied on a few selected blocks. Spatial data was collected and integrated using open-source software (QGIS) and statistical analysis has been performed to understand the percentage change in socio-economic indicators related to education, healthcare, agriculture, marketing and employment opportunities which are essential elements of the integrated rural development in India. The analysis appears helpful in estimating the sensitivity of government policies in the context, and thus understanding the requirement of policy changes and implementation in rural India.
Maternal Depression and Early Parenting: A Comparison Between Culturally and Linguistically Diverse and Australian born Mothers
Authors: Eatt Jodi , Watson Stuart J , Ball Helen L. , Sevar Katherine , Galbally Megan
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To examine the risk of perinatal depression, parenting stress and infant sleep practices in Australian culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) women.

Method:

Within the Mercy Pregnancy and Emotional Wellbeing Study, we examined 487 pregnant women of whom 52 were CaLD and 435 non-CaLD. Depression was measured using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. In addition, Parenting Stress Index and infant sleep measures were collected.

Results:

Fewer CaLD women had a depression diagnosis but there were no differences between CaLD and non-CaLD women for perinatal mental health symptoms. More mothers in the CaLD group were bed sharing with their infant during the night at six months; however, bedsharing was only associated with higher parenting stress for non-CaLD mothers.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest both differences in infant sleep parenting practices and in parenting stress but not general emotional wellbeing. Future research is required to replicate these findings.
Factors Affecting Diet-Related Quality of Life Among Hemodialysis Patients According to Age-group
Authors: Chang Ae Kyung , Choi Jin Yi
Published: January 2022

This study identified factors influencing diet-related quality of life (QoL) among hemodialysis patients by age. In a cross-sectional correlational study in South Korea, 175 participants from two age groups—20–59 years and 60 years and above—completed self-report questionnaires assessing demographic and health-related characteristics, eating status, subjective health status, disease-related factors, dietary knowledge, and xerostomia severity. Findings indicated that the predictors of diet-related QoL included subjective health status and regular eating status (20–59 years) and self-efficacy, attitude toward hydration behaviors, and exercise (60 years and above). In order to improve the diet-related quality of life of dialysis patients, young adults need to focus on their physical health and regular meals, and the elderly need a differentiation strategy that considers psychological factors such as self-efficacy and attitude toward pollination.
Latent Profiles of Students at Social-Emotional Risk: Heterogeneity Among Peer-Rejected Students in Early Elementary School
Authors: Hall Cristin M. , Bierman Karen L. , Jacobson Linda N.
Published: January 2022

A latent profile analysis was applied to explore heterogeneity in the social and classroom behaviors of 224 peer-rejected elementary school students (56% White, 68% male, Grades 1–4, M age = 8.1 years). Profile indicators included teacher ratings of social skills and problem behaviors on the Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS) and peer nominations of prosocial, aggressive, and withdrawn behavior. Four profiles emerged. Two profiles where characterized by elevated externalizing problems by peer and teacher report, one with multiple co-occurring difficulties (multiproblem, 21% of the sample) and one characterized primarily by aggression (domineering, 32% of the sample). Another profile was characterized by deficits in social skills and viewed by teachers as internalizing and disruptive (internalizing-dysregulated, 26% of the sample.) The final profile was nondistinct on teacher ratings but defined by low rates of prosocial behavior by peers (teacher preferred, 21% of the sample.) Group comparisons revealed that students in the multiproblem and internalizing-dysregulated profile classes had lower-quality relationships with teachers and more academic difficulties than students in the other two profile classes. The findings are discussed in terms of implications for identifying peer-rejected students for Tier 2 interventions and tailoring those interventions to enhance impact.
Genetic Study of BRAF V600E and SMO L412F Mutations in Japanese Patients with Ameloblastoma
Authors: Kokubun Katsutoshi , Yamamoto Kei , Akashi Yoshihiko , Chujo Takatoshi , Nakajima Kei , Matsuzaka Kenichi
Published: January 2022

Background and aim. Ameloblastoma is a benign, intraosseous, progressively growing, epithelial, odontogenic neoplasm. BRAF and SMO mutations have been reported in ameloblastoma. In this study, we evaluated BRAF V600E and SMO L412F mutations; and assessed the relationship between BRAF V600E mutant expression and the clinicopathological features in Japanese patients with ameloblastoma. Methods. We examined 24 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples. All specimens were from patients with mandibular ameloblastoma: 20 were conventional ameloblastoma and 4 were unicystic ameloblastoma. The BRAF V600E mutation was assessed by Sanger sequencing and immunohistochemistry, and the SMO L412F mutation was assessed only by Sanger sequencing. Results. Twenty of the 24 (83%) ameloblastoma samples carried the BRAF V600E mutation; 22 of the 24 (92%) samples were immunohistochemically positive for BRAF V600E. However, the SMO L412F mutation was not detected in any of them. The BRAF V600E mutation status did not correlate with the clinicopathological features, such as age, sex, location, method, recurrence, and subtype. Conclusion. BRAF inhibitors could be a potential treatment option for Japanese patients with ameloblastoma, harboring the BRAF V600E mutation.
Comparing the Ability of MMPI-2 and MMPI-2-RF Validity Scales to Detect Feigning: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Aparcero Maria , Picard Emilie H. , Nijdam-Jones Alicia , Rosenfeld Barry
Published: January 2022

Several meta-analyses of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) have examined these instruments’ ability to detect symptom exaggeration or feigning. However, limited research has directly compared whether the scales across these two instruments are equally effective. This study used a moderated meta-analysis to compare 109 MMPI-2 and 41 MMPI-2-RF feigning studies, 83 (56.46%) of which were not included in previous meta-analyses. Although there were differences between the two test versions, with most MMPI-2 validity scales generating larger effect sizes than the corresponding MMPI-2-RF scales, these differences were not significant after controlling for study design and type of symptoms being feigned. Additional analyses showed that the F and Fp-r scales generated the largest effect sizes in identifying feigned psychiatric symptoms, while the FBS and RBS were better at detecting exaggerated medical symptoms. The findings indicate that the MMPI-2 validity scales and their MMPI-2-RF counterparts were similarly effective in differentiating genuine responders from those exaggerating or feigning psychiatric and medical symptoms. These results provide reassurance for the use of both the MMPI-2 and MMPI-2-RF in settings where symptom exaggeration or feigning is likely. Findings are discussed in the context of the recently released MMPI-3.
Clinical Significance of Frailty on Treatment Outcome in Nongeriatric Patients With Head and Neck Cancer and Esophageal Cancer Undergoing Curative-Intent Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Chou Wen-Chi , Lai Cheng-Chou , Hung Chia-Yen , Hsueh Shun-Wen , Yeh Kun-Yun , Lu Chang-Hsien , Tsang Ngan-Ming , Chang Pei-Hung , Ho Ya-Wen , Chen Shih-Ying , Lin Yu-Ching , Hung Yu-Shin
Published: January 2022

Background

Whether the prevalence of frailty and its clinical significance are relevant to treatment outcomes in younger (aged < 65 years) cancer patients remains uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of frailty on treatment outcomes in younger cancer patients with head and neck and esophageal malignancy.

Material and methods

This multicenter prospective study recruited 502 patients with locally advanced head and neck and esophageal cancer during 2016–2017 in Taiwan, aged 20–64 years who received curative-intent concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) as first-line antitumor treatment. Baseline frailty assessment using geriatric assessment (GA) was performed for each patient within 7 days before CCRT initiation.

Results

Frailty was observed in 169 (33.7%) of 502 middle-aged patients. Frail patients had significantly higher incidences of chemotherapy incompletion (16.6% versus 3.3%, P < .001) and radiotherapy incompletion (16.6% versus 3.6%, P < .001) than fit patients. During CCRT, frail patients had a significantly higher percentage of hospitalizations (42.0% versus 24.6%, P < .001) and a trend toward a higher percentage of emergency room visits (37.9% versus 30.0%, P = .08) than fit patients. Frail patients more likely had a significantly higher incidence of grade ≥ 3 adverse events than fit patients during CCRT. The 1-year survival rate was 68.7% and 85.2% (hazard ratio 2.56, 95% confidence interval 1.80–3.63, P < .001) for frail and fit patients, respectively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the significance of pretreatment frailty on treatment tolerance, treatment-related toxicity, and survival outcome in younger patients with head and neck and esophageal cancer undergoing CCRT. While GA is commonly targeted toward the older population, frailty assessment by GA may also be utilized in younger patients for decision-making guidance and prognosis prediction.
Impact of Homoarginine on Myocardial Function and Remodeling in a Rat Model of Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Koch Vitali , Weber Christophe , Riffel Johannes H. , Buchner Kristina , Buss Sebastian J. , Hein Selina , Mereles Derliz , Hagenmueller Marco , Erbel Christian , März Winfried , Booz Christian , Albrecht Moritz H. , Vogl Thomas J. , Frey Norbert , Hardt Stefan E. , Ochs Marco
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Low plasma concentrations of the amino acid homoarginine (HA) have been shown to correlate with adverse cardiovascular outcome, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease. The present study sought to investigate the effect of HA treatment on cardiac remodeling in rats undergoing artificially induced renal insufficiency by 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx).

Methods:

A total of 33 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into sham and 5/6 Nx groups, receiving either placebo treatment or 400 mg·kg−1·day−1 HA over a 4-week period.

Results:

5/6 Nx per se resulted in adverse myocardial remodeling with aggravated cardiac function and associated cardiac overload as the most obvious alteration (−23% ejection fraction, P < 0.0001), as well as increased myocardial fibrosis (+80%, P = 0.0005) compared to placebo treated sham animals. HA treatment of 5/6 Nx rats has led to an improvement of ejection fraction (+24%, P = 0.0003) and fractional shortening (+21%, P = 0.0126), as well as a decrease of collagen deposition (−32%, P = 0.0041), left ventricular weight (−14%, P = 0.0468), and myocyte cross-sectional area (−12%, P < 0.0001). These changes were accompanied by a downregulation of atrial natriuretic factor (−65% P < 0.0001) and collagen type V alpha 1 chain (−44%, P = 0.0006). Sham animals revealed no significant changes in cardiac function, myocardial fibrosis, or any of the aforementioned molecular changes after drug treatment.

Conclusion:

Dietary HA supplementation appears to have the potential of preventing cardiac remodeling and improving heart function in the setting of chronic kidney disease. Our findings shed new light on HA as a possible new therapeutic agent for patients at high cardiovascular risk.
Lateral tarsal strip through osteotomies for recurrent ectropion and eyelid laxity correction
Authors: Mora Amparo M , Córdoba Carlos M , Padilla Fabio D , Duran Diego F
Published: January 2022

Objective

to present a surgical technique for treating patients with recurrent ectropion and severe lower eyelid laxity.

Methods

Lateral tarsal strip and canthal fixation by osteotomy was performed in 6 patients with recurrent ectropion and 1 patient with extreme lower eyelid laxity secondary to an anophthalmic socket. Preoperative and postoperative photographs were evaluated in order to assess the outcomes of the procedure. Patients were followed up 4 weeks, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months of the postoperative period. The initial symptoms of the patients were eye redness, epiphora, foreign body sensation, aesthetic complaints, and facial asymmetry. Symptoms and aesthetic results were assessed by questioning, photographs, and fluorescein and lissamine green stains taken in each visit.

Results

No postoperative complications were observed. No recurrence episodes were reported during the follow-up period and physical appearance improvement and symptom severity reduction were maintained during the observation.

Conclusion

Lateral tarsal strip through osteotomies is an effective surgical procedure for treating severe recurrent ectropion cases or lower eyelid laxity and could be considered as an alternative treatment option or even a primary surgical technique in selected difficult cases.
Cardiac implications of upper-arm arteriovenous fistulas: A case series
Authors: Pucchio Aidan , McIntyre Christopher , Lok Charmaine , Moist Louise
Published: January 2022

Background:

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage kidney disease. Arterio-venous fistulas (AVF), the gold standard for hemodialysis vascular access, are known to alter cardiac morphology and circulatory hemodynamics. We present a prospective case series of patients after creation of an AVF, explore the timeline for changes in their cardiac morphology, and detail considerations for clinicians.

Methods:

Patients were recruited in 2010 at multiple centers immediately prior to the creation of an upper-arm AVF and the initiation of hemodialysis. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance images were taken at intake before the creation of the AVF, 6-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. Image segmentation was used to measure left ventricular volume and mass, left atrial volume, and ejection fraction.

Results:

Eight patients met eligibility criteria. All eight patients had a net increase in left ventricular mass over enrollment, with a mean increase of 9.16 g (+2.96 to +42.66 g). Five participants had a net decrease in ejection fraction, with a mean change in ejection fraction of −5.4% (−21% to +5%). Upon visual inspection the patients with the largest ejection fraction decrease had noticeably hypertrophic and dilated ventricles. Left atrial volume change was varied, decreasing in five participants, while increasing in three participants. Changes in morphology were present at 6-month follow-up, even in patients who did not maintain AVF patency for the entirety of the 6-month period.

Conclusion:

All patients included in this prospective case series had increases in left ventricular mass, with variability in the effects on the ejection fraction and left atrial volume. As left ventricular mass is an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality, further research to determine appropriate vascular access management in both end-stage kidney disease and kidney transplant populations is warranted.
Immunoglobulin G immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in people living with multiple sclerosis within Multiple Sclerosis Partners Advancing Technology and Health Solutions
Authors: Cohen Jeffrey A , Bermel Robert A , Grossman Cynthia I , Hersh Carrie M , Hyland Megan , Mowry Ellen M , Naismith Robert , Naylor Maria L , Nicholas Jacqueline , Rajbhandar Rajani , Singh Carol M , Tintorè Mar , Zabalza Ana , Ziemssen Tjalf , Williams James R , Montalban Xavier
Published: January 2022

Background:

The impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination response is uncertain.

Methods:

Post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination blood samples across multiple DMTs were tested for SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) response.

Results:

Three hundred twenty-two people with MS were included; 91.9% received an mRNA vaccine. Post-vaccination reactive IgG rates (IgG index > 1) were 40% for anti-CD20 (32/80 patients); 41% for sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators (S1PRM, 16/39); and 100% for all other classes, including the no DMT group.

Conclusion:

Anti-CD20 therapies and S1PRMs reduce IgG response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination; IgG response is preserved with other DMTs.
The respect pyramid: A model of respect based on lay knowledge in two cultures
Authors: Nasie Meytal
Published: January 2022

Respect is a common social concept, yet how lay people define it has not been thoroughly investigated. This study used a grounded theory approach, using in-depth interviews, to conceptualize respect according to lay knowledge. 40 participants from two cultures in the Middle East—20 Jewish Israelis and 20 Palestinians—reported how they define respect ( Kavod in Hebrew and Ihtiram in Arabic). The findings define respect as a complex, multidimensional concept. Based on the findings, a respect pyramid model was developed, which includes four dimensions: avoiding disrespect, deserved/normative respect, conditional respect, and considerate respect. Each dimension indicates an increase in aspects that make the respect less conditional and more intrinsic, while requiring higher sensitivity and greater effort. The implications of the respect pyramid for relationships and the cultural differences regarding definitions of respect are discussed.
A critical realist approach to systems thinking in evaluation
Authors: De Souza Denise E.
Published: January 2022

Pawson and Tilley’s acknowledgment of programs embedded in multiple social systems has gained little traction in realist synthesis and evaluation practice. A practice focusing on fairly closed systems—explaining how programs work and do not work—has emerged. This article negotiates the boundaries of knowledge pertinent to have in program design and evaluation from a realist perspective. It highlights critical realism as another possible response to systems thinking in evaluation. Moving one level up a program, it theorizes about social structures, mechanisms, and causes operating in a complex system within which an education-to-work program is nested. Three implications of the approach are highlighted: it foregrounds the relational nature of social, psychological, and programmatic structures and mechanisms; enables policymakers to develop a broader understanding of structures needed to support a program; and enables program architects to ascertain how a planned program might assimilate and adapt to social structures and mechanisms already established in a context.
Motivating factors associated with oral pre-exposure prophylaxis use among female sex workers in South Africa
Authors: Makhakhe Nosipho Faith , MeyerWeitz Anna , Sliep Yvonne
Published: January 2022

To explore the motivating factors that encourage female sex workers to take oral PrEP, despite the challenges that come with adherence. The 39 participants in this study consisted of female sex workers, peer educators, a counselor, and a researcher. Participants took PrEP as an expression of self-love. Some participants described PrEP as empowering because they could independently prevent HIV. They were also motivated by parenting, hope and future aspirations. It is important for future PrEP interventions to incorporate behavioral strategies that appeal to the user’s personal and deeper motivations for living.
‘May I do something for you?’: The effects of audio-visual material (captioned and non-captioned) on EFL pragmatic learning
Authors: Barón Júlia , Celaya M. Luz
Published: January 2022

The present study deals with the effect of audio-visual material for second language (L2) pragmatic learning in the foreign language classroom. More specifically, it analyzes whether being exposed to captioned and non-captioned input in an experimental condition entailing no instruction on pragmatics might have any influence on the learners’ pragmatic performance. To this aim, two intact classes ( N = 31) of learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) at a B1 level were exposed to videos with captions and without captions, respectively. Before and after watching the videos, all the students were asked to carry out a role-play task with situations like those in the videos. A mixed-methods approach was used to analyze the learners’ performance in terms of types and number of strategies to perform speech acts (quantitative) and in terms of pragmatic appropriateness (qualitative). Findings show that both groups used more polite strategies after watching the videos, regardless of the captioned/non-captioned condition, which seems to confirm the contribution of audio-visual material for the learning of the L2 pragmatics in an incidental way. Concerning pragmatic appropriateness, we found that learners in the captioned condition produced more pragmalinguistically appropriate role-plays than learners in the non-captioned condition, thus suggesting a positive effect of captioned material on the learning of the L2 pragmatics. Such results are discussed in relation to the few previous similar studies in the field.
Iterative redesign of a caregiver-mediated intervention for use in educational settings
Authors: Bearss Karen , Tagavi Daina , Lyon Aaron R , Locke Jill
Published: January 2022

Teachers endorse disruptive behavior as a considerable concern for autistic students, which is compounded by the lack of adequate resources for behavioral intervention planning in the classroom. The RUBI program is an evidence-based, low-intensity manualized intervention, initially developed for parents of autistic children ages 3–14 and co-occurring disruptive behavior. Utilizing the Discover, Design/Build, Test (DDBT) framework, which combines user-centered design and implementation science, RUBI intervention content was collaboratively and iteratively redesigned with elementary school stakeholders (40 school staff from 28 schools) to ensure the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of the redesigned intervention, RUBI in Educational Settings (RUBIES). Iterative quantitative and qualitative methods were conducted with stakeholders to identify targets for RUBI redesign. Conventional content analysis was used to code qualitative data and identify usability issues. Recommendations were provided for modifications to RUBI sessions to address the needs of the school context and end-users to develop RUBIES. Feasibility scores improved following the redesign. The use of the DDBT framework to redesign the RUBI intervention may promote greater usefulness and usability in school contexts.

Lay abstract

Teachers often report concerns about behavior challenges in their students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the school setting. Furthermore, teachers often report that they do not have adequate training in how to manage these challenging behaviors effectively. The RUBI program is an intervention initially developed for parents of children with ASD and co-occurring challenging behavior in clinic settings. The present project used school staff input to systematically redesign RUBI to be used with educators in schools. School staff gave input at multiple stages of development to ensure the adapted intervention was appropriate to use in a school setting. Responses were coded and analyzed to identify strengths and weaknesses of the RUBI manual in schools and adaptations were made accordingly. Scores of how appropriate, possible, likable, and usable RUBI would be in schools rose after the intervention was redesigned. The redesigned RUBIES manual may give school staff the tools they need to manage disruptive behaviors. In addition, collaborating with providers over multiple stages to redesign established interventions for new contexts may be a promising way to help bring research tools to practice in the future.
Taking care of oneself and others: The emotion work of women suffering from a rare skin disease
Authors: Le Henaff Yannick , Héas Stéphane , Joly Pascal
Published: January 2022

In this article, we analyze the emotion work of women suffering from pemphigus, a rare skin disease. We suggest that this approach sheds new light on the upheavals caused by illness and more generally on the experience of illness itself. Our study draws on a series of 27 interviews with pemphigus patients whose average age was 57. We show that serious and chronic illness does not radically alter the feeling rules in place with close friends and family, despite the uncertainty and emotional upheaval confronting patients. The emotion work they carry out should be understood in light of roles and places established prior to the onset of the disease. Emotion work is embedded in the broader history of relationships with family and friends and prior episodes of illness help create particular configurations and expectations.
Drawgasms: Playing with expectations and experiences of pleasure through multimodal accounts
Authors: Lehtonen Miikka J , Heljakka Katriina , Kosonen Krista
Published: January 2022

Drawing on a study consisting of 29 multimodal accounts of orgasms, we make visible processes, emotions, and notions of playfulness that highlight the critical role of orgasms in transcending the fleeting distinction between reality and play. As sexual pleasure does not necessarily result from experiencing an orgasm, our data also reveals how playful strategies are enacted in order to mitigate ambiguity and societal norms. Instead of seeing the orgasm as a physiological or psychological change in an individual or as an epitome of “good” sex, the multimodal accounts employed in the study reveal attitudes, assumptions, and expectations related to playful pleasure.
Refugee posttraumatic growth: A grounded theory study
Authors: Hirad Sara , Miller Marianne McInnes , Negash Sesen , Lambert Jessica E.
Published: January 2022

In response to the unprecedented refugee crisis around the world, a growing body of research has focused on psychological distress among individuals and families forced to flee their homelands. Less attention has been directed toward understanding resilience, adaptation, and growth among this population. This grounded theory study explored the posttraumatic growth experiences of Middle Eastern and Afghan refugees resettled in the United States. The principal researcher conducted 23 interviews with seven couples and 16 individuals aged 25 to 67 years, from Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, and Syria. This study aimed to explore how refugees understand, process, overcome, and grow from the trauma and adversity they have experienced. Findings were used to delineate a model of the process through which refugees experience posttraumatic growth. The overarching theme of moving forward had five specific growth themes: increased awareness of context; tolerating uncertainty; spiritual/religious attunement; consideration of others; and integrating into society. Findings shed light on the complex process of growth and adaptation in the aftermath of war and forced migration. The model can serve as a tool for clinicians to facilitate more empowering posttraumatic narratives with refugee clients rooted in growth experiences.
Investigation of code-switching cost in conversation and self-paced reading tasks
Authors: Faroqi-Shah Yasmeen , Wereley Sophie
Published: January 2022

Aims and objectives:

Studies of code-switching (CS) in bilingual speakers using laboratory tasks have been equivocal on whether CS is cognitively demanding. The goal of this study was to examine time costs at the juncture of a CS in a more ecologically valid experimental paradigm.

Methodology:

English (L1)–French (L2) bilingual speakers performed two tasks. The primary experimental task was a novel paradigm that elicited voluntary code-switches in conversation with a bilingual interlocutor. A silent self-paced reading task was used to compare with a laboratory task with involuntary switches.

Data and analysis:

Intersyllabic durations (conversation task) and reading times (reading task) were analyzed. CS cost was the time difference between code-switches and matched non-switches. Cost-switching costs for each switch direction (English-to-French and French-to-English) and type of switch (alternations and insertions) were also compared.

Findings:

Code-switches in conversation were associated with a time cost, and the magnitude was comparable in both directions although speakers more frequently switched from French-to-English. In self-paced reading, switching costs were observed only for switches into the dominant language. Across both tasks, there were no differences in CS time cost between insertions and alternations.

Originality:

This study reports a novel measure of CS costs in conversation, intersyllabic duration, and provides a cross-task comparison in the same group of bilingual speakers to better inform theories of CS.

Implications:

Bilingual speakers experience a time cost when making voluntary switches in conversations. The symmetrical switch costs suggest that both languages have similar activation levels throughout the conversation, and the cognitive costs arise from the act of momentarily switching languages, irrespective of their dominance. In self-paced reading, cognitive costs arise from disturbing the status quo of relative activation-inhibition of each language adopted to perform the task. The comparable CS time cost for insertions and alternations suggests similar cognitive control and linguistic planning mechanisms for both types of switches.
Resilient active seismic response control of structural systems
Authors: Çetin Gökhan , Fadali Mohammed S , Pekcan Gökhan
Published: January 2022

This paper proposes a dissipative resilient observer and controller (DROC) design for a network controlled system (NCS) that handles faults, implementation errors, or cyberattacks that can be modeled as bounded controller or observer gain perturbations. It presents linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions for the robust stability of the system in the presence of bounded perturbations in the observer and controller. Furthermore, a new LMI-based time-delay control (TDC) algorithm that mitigates the effects of perturbations due to time-delays in the NCS is introduced. The robust methodology is applied to active control of a scaled model of a structural system equipped with an active mass driver system. The results demonstrate that the proposed methodology is robust and ensures stable system response due to various types of earthquake base excitations.
Textile-reinforced mortars; an experimental comparative study of tensile strength improvement methods
Authors: Ghasemi Roohallah , Safarabadi Majid , Haghighi-Yazdi Mojtaba , Mirdehghan Abolfazl
Published: January 2022

In this article, an experimental study is conducted to compare eight improvement methods for the tensile strength of textile-reinforced mortars (TRM). 12 series of samples with different modification methods are compared to determine the most effective factors on crack initiation force and tensile strength of TRM. Eight modification methods are categorized under three main groups of mortar modification, fabric modification, and fabric-mortar interface modification. TRM's first crack force and ultimate force are considered as indices of method performance. One-way ANOVA and factorial analysis were also conducted to statically determine the most significant methods for improving TRM tensile behavior. The results showed that the modification of mortar by short fiber is the most effective method for the enhancement of TRM's first crack force. Also, the methods which led to the transfer of failure mode from mortar to fabrics were the most effective methods on TRM ultimate force improvement. The result showed that coating fabrics with epoxy affects TRM tensile strength more than all other methods. Extra enhancement of TRM ultimate force is achieved by adding silica fume to epoxy before coating the fabrics and spreading the sand and short fibers on impregnated fabrics.