bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis of Menière’s disease on MRI: feasibility at 1.5 Tesla
Authors: Kenis Christoph , Crins Tom , Bernaerts Anja , Casselman Jan , Foer Bert De
Published: May 2021

Background

Menière’s disease (MD) is clinically characterized by the triad sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus and/or aural fullness, and vertigo. Endolymphatic hydrops (EH) is the histopathological basis associated with MD, which can be demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Currently, most studies are done on a 3-T MRI scanner and to date it is believed that EH can only be demonstrated on a 3-T magnet. We report the feasibility of demonstrating EH on a 1.5-T scanner using the standard 20-channel head and neck coil and the current standard 4-h delayed intravenous gadolinium-enhanced three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (3D-FLAIR) sequence.

Purpose

To investigate whether current standard 4-h delayed intravenous gadolinium-enhanced 3D-FLAIR imaging can demonstrate endolymphatic hydrops on a 1.5-T MRI scanner.

Material and Methods

The 3D-FLAIR sequence was taken from a 3-T MRI protocol and tested on a volunteer patient with clinically “definite” MD, after 4-h delayed intravenous contrast injection. Good image quality was obtained after reducing both the matrix and the bandwidth, with clear demonstration of EH. Subsequently, eight more patients with unilateral disease were imaged. Five patients had “definite” MD and four had “probable” MD.

Results

We imaged nine patients with unilateral disease and detected EH in eight of nine ears. One patient with “probable” MD did not show any abnormality, but the images were degraded by motion artifacts.

Conclusion

At a cost of 2 min extra scanning time compared to a 3-T scanner, EH can be confidently demonstrated with the current standard 3D-FLAIR sequence on a 1.5-T magnet.
PD-L1 SNPs as biomarkers to define benefit in patients with advanced NSCLC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Minari Roberta , Bonatti Francesco , Mazzaschi Giulia , Dodi Alessandra , Facchinetti Francesco , Gelsomino Francesco , Cinquegrani Gloria , Squadrilli Anna , Bordi Paola , Buti Sebastiano , Bersanelli Melissa , Leonetti Alessandro , Cosenza Agnese , Ferri Leonarda , Rapacchi Elena , Quaini Federico , Ardizzoni Andrea , Tiseo Marcello
Published: May 2021

Objective:

To investigate the role of CTLA-4, PD-1 (programmed death-1), and PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in predicting clinical outcome of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

Methods:

A total of 166 consecutive patients were included. We correlated SNPs with clinical benefit, progression-free survival, time to treatment failure, and overall survival and evaluated the incidence of SNPs in nonresponder and long clinical benefit groups.

Results:

Considering the entire cohort, no correlation was found between SNPs and clinical outcome; however, PD-L1 rs4143815 SNP and the long clinical benefit group showed a statistically significant association ( p = 0.02). The nonresponder cohort displayed distinctive PD-L1 haplotype ( p = 0.05).

Conclusion:

PD-L1 SNPs seem to be marginally involved in predicting clinical outcome of NSCLC treated with ICI, but further investigations are required.
Understanding the occupational identity of care-givers for people with mental health problems
Authors: Howes Megan L , Ellison Diane
Published: May 2021

Introduction

There is recognition within the literature that the role of care-giving can have a negative impact on care-givers’ general well-being. Less is understood about the role of care-giving on an individual’s occupational participation and in turn occupational identity. Occupational therapists have a unique understanding of the interplay between occupational participation and health, though this is an area that has been under researched in relation to mental health care-givers. Therefore, the current research aims to understand how the role of care-giving for an individual with a mental illness impacts on occupational participation and identity.

Method

A qualitative semi-structured interview the Occupational Performance and History Interview–Version 2 was utilised to understand life experiences. Six mental health care-givers were interviewed, and these interviews were transcribed for thematic analysis.

Findings

Three main themes were identified: being me, roles and responsibilities associated with care-giving and services.

Conclusion

The findings suggest being a mental health care-giver does have a detrimental impact on occupational participation and therefore occupational identity. As care-givers gained more experience in their role, they used occupational adaption as a positive coping mechanism that helped them achieve occupational balance. Using their unique understanding of occupational participation and occupational identity, occupational therapists are well placed to utilise their knowledge and skills to work in a systemic way supporting both the person with mental illness and their care-giver.
Examining Factors Related to the Food Insecurity–Obesity Paradox in Low-Income Mothers and Fathers
Authors: Taylor Emily A. , Foster Jaime S. , Mobley Amy R.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Prior research has indicated a varying relationship of food security and obesity risk between men and women yet factors affecting this relationship are unclear.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to examine factors related to the gender disparity in the food insecurity–obesity paradox within a sample of low-income parents.

Methods:

Low-income cohabiting mother and father pairs (n = 25) living with their child were interviewed individually using the United States Department of Agriculture Household Food Security Module, Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, and Coping Strategies Index to examine gendered factors related to the food insecurity–obesity paradox.

Results:

There was a significant ( P = .003) difference in report of adults in the household sacrificing consumption to feed young children between mothers (2.91 ± 0.92) and fathers (3.59 ± 0.73), with mothers reporting greater sacrifice and compromised diet quality to feed their children, but no significant correlation among body mass index, depression, and food insecurity was detected.

Conclusions:

Food insecure mothers may be more likely to compromise their diet quality to feed their children than fathers. This could help explain why the food insecurity–obesity paradox is significant only in women, and this work gives insights into gender-based differential consequences of food insecurity.
Teachers’ Relationships with Children in the Finnish Early Childhood Education Context: A Validation Study
Authors: Yang Wenwen , Laakkonen Eero , Silvén Maarit
Published: May 2021

This study examined the factorial validity and measurement invariance of the Student–Teacher Relationship Scale–Short Form (STRS-SF), modified by Whitaker et al. (2015) , in the Finnish Early Childhood Education (ECE) context. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported the two-factor model of Closeness and Conflict after some item modifications and partial strong measurement invariance across ECE student teachers and two qualified ECE teacher groups. In general, the participants perceived high levels of closeness and low levels of conflicts with children. The qualified teachers who voluntarily enrolled in training to improve their professional competence perceived their relationships with children as more conflictual, reported less working experience, and had younger children in their classrooms, compared to the other qualified teachers. The student teachers perceived less closeness than the teachers but reported fewerconflicts than the teachers enrolled in training. This study extended the application of the STRS-SF in teacher education and research to a Nordic cultural context.
In vitro and in vivo study on the osseointegration of magnesium and strontium ion with two different proportions of mineralized collagen and its mechanism
Authors: Sun Yi , Liu Hai , Sun Xiao-Yu , Xia Wen , Deng Chao
Published: May 2021

To explore the optimal combination of Mg2+, Sr2+ and mineralized collagen (nHAC) with two different proportions of hydroxyapatite (HA) and collagen (COL) on differentiation of MC3T3-E1 and the underlying mechanism, as well as achieve bone osseointegration. MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured in a complete medium with Mg2+ at the concentration of 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 mmol/L, Sr2+ at the concentration of 0, 3, 6, 12 mmol/L, and the impregnation solution of 3:7 and 5:5nHAC. The differentiation of MC3T3-E1 was measured by expression of osteogenic genes and proteins including Runx-2, BMP-2 and OCN and determined the activation of PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway in 12 mmol/LMg 2 ++3 mmol/LSr 2 ++3:7nHAC group. Osteoporosis was induced in 18 female rats by means of ovariectomy, the implants were immersed in 60 mmol/LMg 2 ++15 mmol/LSr 2 ++3:7nHAC impregnation solution and implanted into the mesial alveolar fossa for immediate implantation. The osseointegration of the implants was observed by Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and histology at 4 and 8 weeks. The groups cultured with 12 mmol/LMg 2 +, 3 mmol/LSr 2 + and 3:7nHAC impregnation solution showed the osteogenic genes and proteins were significantly higher respectively (P < 0.05), as well as p-Akt, p-GSK3β and β-catenin proteins (P < 0.05). CLSM and histology showed that the implant surface was surrounded by thick lamellar bone plate, and the trabecular bone were dense and continuous in the impregnation solution. These results found that magnesium and strontium ion-loaded mineralized collagen play an critical role in up-regulating the cells activity through PI3K/AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway and could be promote the formation of osseointegration.
“And Then Cinderella Was Lying in My Bed”: Dissociation Displays in Forensic Interviews With Children Following Intrafamilial Child Sexual Abuse
Authors: Tsur Noga , Katz Carmit
Published: May 2021

Child sexual abuse (CSA) has been implicated in dissociative peritraumatic and post-traumatic symptoms and disorders. Although explicitly relevant to the legal process following alleged CSA, very little is known about dissociative manifestations in the context of forensic interviews with children following abuse. The current study was designed to uncoverperi- and post-traumatic dissociation of abused children as revealed in forensic interviews. The study examines the display of dissociation in 42 forensic interviews with children (29 girls, aged 4-14) following intra familial child sexual abuse (IFCSA). Thematic analysis was used to identify key expressions of dissociation in all of the forensic interviews. The analyses identified depersonalization and derealization in the children’s description of the abuse. This was manifested both in an inability to feel things that happened during the incidents or imagination and fantasies that were reported as part of the abusive incidents. The children’s interviews also revealed the potential manifestations of dissociative amnesia, which was evident in the children’s attempts to communicate their retrieval difficulties to the forensic interviewers. Finally, it was identified that the forensic interviews were a platform in which dissociative post-traumatic reactions were activated and often displayed in sensory flashbacks. The current findings uncover the importance of acknowledging trauma and dissociation in the context of forensic interviews with abused children and the urgent need to implement unique responses to trauma within practical guidelines.
Effectiveness of Workplace Exercise Interventions on Body Composition: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: de Sevilla Guillermo García Pérez , Vicente-Arche Fernando Cobo , Thuissard Israel John , Barcelo Olga , Perez-Ruiz Margarita
Published: May 2021

Objective:

The aim of this review was to analyze the effectiveness of workplace exercise interventions on body composition (BC).

Data Source:

Studies published in PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, CINAHL and PsycINFO, from the earliest time point until 8 July 2020.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria:

Inclusion criteria were worksite interventions, in adults, Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), real exercise practice, and measuring BC outcomes. Exclusion criteria were full-text non-available, abstract not in English, and exercise protocol missing.

Data Extraction:

157 studies were retrieved and assessed for inclusion by 2 independent reviewers, who also used the Cochrane’s Collaboration Tool to assess study quality and risk of bias.

Data Synthesis:

We performed a meta-analysis to determine the effect size of the interventions on BC outcomes reported in at least 5 studies.

Results:

Twelve RCTs were included (n = 1270, 66% women), quality of studies being low to high (25% moderate, 67% high). Interventions achieved a statistically significant decrease in waist circumference (SMD = 0.24; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.06 to 0.41; p = 0.008), total mass fat (SMD = 0.21; 95%CI: 0.00 to 0.41; p = 0.047), and body adiposity index (SMD = 0.20; 95%CI: 0.00 to 0.41; p = 0.049). No changes were observed in body weight (SMD = 0.08 95%CI: −0.02 to 0.18; p = 0.128). Additionally, muscle mass increased in interventions that included strength training. There were no adverse events reported.

Conclusion:

The most effective workplace exercise interventions to improve BC combined supervised, moderate-intensity aerobic and strength training, for at least 4 months.
Presence of “One Pill Can Kill” Medications in Medication Organizers: Implications for Child Safety
Authors: Farrell Natalija M. , Hamilton Sebastian , Gendron Bryan J. , Corio Jessica L. , Lookabill Sara K.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Medication organizers increased compliance, but they do not contain child protective packaging. Medications organizers have been involved in some pediatric exposures; however, previous reports do not describe if “one pill can kill” (1PCK) medications were involved in the exposures. 1PCK medications may cause toxicity even with a single tablet.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to describe the type and presence of 1PCK medications dispensed in medication organizers at a single center.

Methods:

Adult patients who received blister packed medications from September 1, 2017 to September 30, 2017 were included in this retrospective review. Medications were excluded if dispensed traditionally during this time. The primary outcome described included 1PCK medications (quantity and type). Secondary outcomes included total number of tablets dispensed, delayed- (DR) and extended-release (ER) formulations, average age of those dispensed 1PCK medications versus those without.

Results:

A total of 450 patients received 486 blister packs and 75.5% of which found to include 1PCK medications. Most commonly included 1PCK medications were beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers (42.4 and 49.4%, respectively). Patients receiving 1PCK medications were older (69.1 ± 12.6 vs 62.6 ± 16.7 years old, p < 0.0001) and included more medications (8.5 ± 2.9 vs 5.7 ± 2.9 medications, p < 0.0001). DR and ER formulations were in 150 packs.

Conclusion:

The majority of dispensed medication organizers included 1PCK medications. Upon dispensing, patients should be questioned for possible proximity exposures. Additionally, they should receive education on medication safety for children that may be in proximity of the medications during home, work, or social activities.
Longitudinal Associations Between Physical Activity and Purpose in Life Among Older Adults: A Cross-Lagged Panel Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhanjia , Chen Weiyun
Published: May 2021

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to examine the bidirectional relationship between physical activity (PA) and purpose in life in an older adult sample using longitudinal data. Method: Data were collected from three waves (2006, 2010, and 2014) of the Health and Retirement Study. A total of 4591 participants who had complete information of PA and purpose in life at baseline were included in the current study. A series of cross-lagged models were tested separately for vigorous-intensity PA, moderate-intensity PA, and light-intensity PA. Results: While higher levels of purpose in life were associated with more frequent engagement in future vigorous-intensity PA, moderate-intensity PA, and light-intensity PA, none of the PA variables predicted subsequent purpose in life. Discussion: The results did not support a reciprocal relationship between PA and purpose in life in older adults. It is more likely that purpose in life predicts PA, rather than vice versa.
Governmental human rights focal points in federal contexts: The implementation of the Istanbul Convention in Switzerland as a case study
Authors: Niederhauser Matthieu
Published: May 2021

The implementation of international human rights law in federal States is an underexplored process. Subnational entities regularly enjoy a degree of sovereignty, which raises questions such as whether they implement obligations of international law and how the federal level may ensure that implementation takes place at the subnational level. This article aims to answer these questions, using the implementation of the Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Convention) in Switzerland as a case study. To implement the Convention at the cantonal level, federal actors decided to use networks of civil servants in charge of domestic violence issues, who act as governmental human rights focal points (GHRFPs). This article is based on original empirical data, on 25 interviews with State officials who participate in this implementation. The findings show how complex GHRFPs networks work in practice to implement the Convention and highlight the role played by numerous non-legal State actors in this process. As a result, the article argues that international human rights law implementation becomes more diversified both within and across federal States.
Effect of graphene nano-platelets on mechanical and impact characteristics of carbon/Kevlar reinforced epoxy hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Alsaadi Mohamad , Younus Bashar , Erklig Ahmet , Bulut Mehmet , Bozkurt Omer , Sulaiman Bahjat
Published: May 2021

The influence of various graphene nano-platelets (GNPs) content on the tensile, flexural and Charpy impact characteristics of carbon, Kevlar and hybrid carbon/Kevlar fibers reinforced epoxy matrix composites was investigated. Both of composite configurations as carbon and Kevlar at outer and core skins were experimentally tested. The SEM images for flexural specimens were taken to observe the adhesion mechanism of GnPs particles with fiber/epoxy system. It is found that hybridization with Kevlar layers is contributed a positive effect on the hybrid carbon/Kevlar laminate structures in terms of tensile, flexural and impact behaviour. The incorporation of GnPs particles in hybrid and non-hybrid composite samples results in significant improvements in tensile, flexural and impact properties, and the greatest improvement occurs within the GnPs particle content of 0.1 and 0.25 wt%, indicating that the interfacial bonding between the matrix and the fibers is better due to the large surface area of the GnPs and the good entanglement between the GnPs layers and the matrix chains. The samples of impact test are experimented for edgewise and flatwise directions.
Placing Django: Narratives of heritage and race in a Parisian exhibition
Authors: Lie Siv B
Published: May 2021

Django Reinhardt: Swing de Paris, an exhibition that took place at the Cité de la musique in Paris, depicted the life and environment of famed Manouche (French Romani/”Gypsy”) guitarist Django Reinhardt. In this article, I explore how the exhibition performed a spatialized centre-periphery model of citizenship that both reflected and reinforced Manouche marginality in relation to broader French society. I argue that museum exhibitions generate and harness place-oriented narratives to reinforce hegemonic conceptions about ideal citizens. In marking out an ethnoracially segregated imaginary of swing-era Paris, the exhibition reproduced stereotyped ideas about Manouche exoticism and inadaptability to urban modernity. These narratives are not exceptional, but are part of a long-standing project to define national belonging in terms of a normative white identity. As such, they are symptomatic of a much broader problem of state-sanctioned racism in France that is denied through claims to colour-blindness.
Heat transfer performance of steam/air flow in inverted V-shaped rib-roughened channels
Authors: Ma Chao , Ge Bing
Published: May 2021

The heat transfer performance of steam and air flow in a rough rectangular channel with different inverted V-shaped ribs was investigated by infrared thermal imaging technology. Under the conditions that the Reynolds number is in the range of 4000–15,000, the effects of the rib angle on the heat transfer enhancement of the two coolants were obtained. The rib pitch ratio of the flow channel is 10, the ratio of the rib height to the channel hydraulic diameter is 0.078, and the inverted V-shaped rib angle varies from 45° to 90°. The results show that in the inverted V-shaped ribbed channel, the Nu number on both sides of the channel is greatly increased, while the Nu number in the middle of the channel is lower. The local Nu distribution on the surface of the ribbed channel is highly related to the shape of the rib. For different medium cooling, the value and unevenness of the heat transfer coefficient are different, but the shape of the high and low heat transfer coefficient distribution is hardly affected. The heat transfer of both coolants increases as the rib angle decreases from 90° to 45°. Compared with air flow, steam flow cooling shows higher convective heat transfer enhancement. For rib angles of 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°, under the operating condition of the Reynolds number = 12,000, the area-averaged Nusselt numbers of the steam flow is 23.6%, 27.4% and 13.9% higher than that of the air flow, respectively. Based on the experimental heat transfer data, the correlation in terms of the Reynolds number and the rib angle was developed, which is used to estimate the Nu number for steam and air cooling in the inverted V-shaped rib-roughness channels.
Biochemical assessment of the neurotoxicity of gold nanoparticles functionalized with colorectal cancer-targeting peptides in a rat model
Authors: Pereira MC , Adewale OB , Roux S , Cairncross L , Davids H
Published: May 2021

The application of gold nanoparticle-peptide conjugates as theranostic agents for colorectal cancer shows much promise. This study aimed at determining the neurotoxic impact of 14 nm gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) functionalized with colorectal cancer-targeting peptides (namely p.C, p.L or p.14) in a rat model. Brain tissue samples, obtained from Wistar rats that received a single injection of citrate-capped AuNPs, polyethylene glycol-coated (PEG) AuNPs, p.C-PEG-AuNPs, p.L-PEG-AuNPs or p.14-PEG-AuNPs, and sacrificed after 2- and 12-weeks, respectively, were analysed. Inflammation marker (tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β), oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and apoptotic biomarker (cytochrome c, caspase-3) levels were measured. Gold nanoparticle-treated groups sacrificed after 2-weeks did not exhibit any significant inflammatory, oxidative stress or apoptotic effects in brain tissue compared to the untreated control group. In brain tissue from rats that were exposed to citrate-capped AuNPs for 12-weeks, tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 levels were significantly increased compared to the untreated control. Exposure to PEG-AuNP, p.C-PEG-AuNP, p.L-PEG-AuNP and p.14-PEG-AuNP did not elicit significant toxic effects compared to the control after 12-weeks, as evidenced by the absence of inflammatory, oxidative stress and apoptotic effects in brain tissue. We thus report on the safety of PEG-coated AuNP-peptide conjugates for potential application in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer; however, exposure to citrate-capped AuNPs could induce delayed neuro-inflammation, and as such, warrants further investigation.
To Research the Effects of Storage Time on Autotransfusion based on Erythrocyte Oxygen-Carrying Capacity and Oxidative Damage Characteristics
Authors: Li Zhen-Zhou , Jia Dong-Lin , Wang Huan , Zhou Xiao-Fang , Cheng Yong , Duan Li-Shuang , Yin Lei , Wei Han-Wei , Guo Wei , Guo Jian-Rong
Published: May 2021

Autotransfusion refers to a blood transfusion method in which the blood or blood components of the patient are collected under certain conditions, returned to himself when the patient needs surgery or emergency after a series of storing and processing. Although autotransfusion can avoid blood-borne diseases and adverse reactions related to allogeneic blood transfusion, a series of structural and functional changes of erythrocytes will occur during extension of storage time, thus affecting the efficacy of clinical blood transfusion. Our research was aimed to explore the change of erythrocyte oxygen-carrying capacity in different storage time, such as effective oxygen uptake (Q), P50, 2,3-DPG, Na+-K+-ATPase, to detect membrane potential, the change of Ca2+, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) change of erythrocytes. At the same time, Western blot was used to detect the expression of Mitofusin 1 (Mfn1) and Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) proteins on the cytomembrane, from the perspective of oxidative stress to explore the function change of erythrocytes after different storage time. This study is expected to provide experimental data for further clarifying the functional status of erythrocytes with different preservation time in patients with autotransfusion, achieving accurate infusion of erythrocytes and improving the therapeutic effect of autologous blood transfusion, which has important clinical application value.
Modelling of Materials Management System for Cross-country Pipeline Project from Client’s Perspective
Authors: Choudhury D. K.
Published: May 2021

In managing a pipeline construction project, the selection of vendors, the procurement of materials, developing optimum inspection policy, planning and managing the inflow of materials at different point of time, managing desired level of inventory, proper storage of materials, managing outflow of materials backed up with flow less transportation process and minimizing of wastages at the construction site are big challenges faced by all clients of a cross-country pipeline project. Therefore, on this backdrop, an attempt has been made to construct a materials management system that is applicable for the construction of a cross-country pipeline project. In this context, the objective of this research work is to model the materials management system by applying different methods to take care of vendor selection, materials inspection, materials storage, materials transportation, controlling stock, and managing wastage of materials at the project construction. The methods used for conducting this research work are Garret’s rating technique, and physical system theory (PST). After reviewing different problems faced by the Morbi–Mundra pipeline project team of Gujarat State Petronet Ltd (GSPL), it is expected that the model developed would remove problems faced by GSPL and would facilitate different clients of a pipeline project to complete the project without any time and cost overrun.
Civil Society’s Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019: Patterns from Two Hundred Case Studies of Emergent Agency
Authors: Nampoothiri Niranjan J. , Artuso Filippo
Published: May 2021

Covid-19 has exposed the limitations of current social protection systems and elicited a variety of responses from civil society. This article attempts to characterise emergent agency during Covid-19 by drawing on a dataset of 200 case studies and texts on how human agency has shifted during Covid-19. The overarching finding is that while the pandemic has disrupted civil society, this disruption has also spawned the emergence of new actors, issues, coalitions, and repertoires. Larger patterns in emergent agency include civil society’s accelerated adoption of digital platforms, the critical role of communities and informal networks in Covid-19 response, the increased reliance on coalition-building, new opportunities for civic action around structural inequalities exposed by the pandemic, and the reshaping of citizen–state relations.
Sustainability Certification and Green Public Procurement: Ideals and Outcomes in a New Jersey School District
Authors: Mendez Cluny , Atkinson Christopher L.
Published: May 2021

The implementation of sustainability and green public procurement (GPP) initiatives in school districts has been the subject of some debate; questions over definitions and programme goals have led to inconsistency and concerns about programme achievements. The legitimacy of programmes rests not only with the announcement of policy by officials, but with adherence to policy and staff buy-in. This study examines barriers districts face, and makes recommendations based upon district experience on ways to successfully implement sustainability and GPP initiatives. A review of the literature on GPP and legitimacy in the execution of public functions within the education domain begins the study. Major components relative to best practices for GPP programmes are studied through the review of GPP-related documents from a school district in New Jersey considered as an exemplar of such programmes. Analysis of an interview with the district’s representatives suggests that, despite the normative approval such programmes receive, and widespread understanding of the rationale for pursuing such initiatives, there remain critical failings in implementation of these programmes, stemming from education, resourcing of initiatives and prioritization of green procurement in relation to other district priorities. The study concludes with lessons learned from this case, which is important given its positioning within New Jersey as an exemplar and recommendations for future research where work in this area is needed.
Transitions Across Multi-Worlds: Experiences of Chinese International Doctoral Students in STEM Fields
Authors: Yang Yibo , MacCallum Judith
Published: May 2021

In the context of internationalization, this longitudinal qualitative study explores the diverse and challenging experiences of Chinese international doctoral students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The endeavor is to identify factors that facilitate or constrain their successful completion of a PhD abroad over time. By incorporating a three-dimensional multi-world conceptual framework that highlights the relationship between an individual’s research, personal, and social worlds, this study identified six patterns of congruence or difference across the worlds and the corresponding transitions, illustrated with narratives for each pattern. Evidence shows that congruence of an individual’s multi-worlds facilitates, but difference does not necessarily mean constraint when differences are respected, understood, and accommodated. Rather, it is how the transitions are negotiated that is important for the success of transnational and transcultural PhD study. This article contributes a conceptual framework, empirical evidence, and practical implications to the understanding of doctoral study abroad experiences.
Introduction: Configuring the Green New Deal
Authors: Sturman Anna , Heenan Natasha
Published: May 2021

We introduce a themed collection of articles on approaches to configuring a Green New Deal as a response to the current capitalist crisis marked by ecological breakdown, economic stagnation and growing inequality. The Green New Deal is a contested political project, with pro-market, right-wing nationalist, Keynesian, democratic socialist and ecosocialist variants. Critiques of the Green New Deal include pragmatic queries as the feasibility of implementation, and theoretical challenges from the right regarding reliance on state forms and from the left regarding efforts to ameliorate capitalism. They also include concerns about technocratic bias and complaints about lack of meaningful consultation with Indigenous peoples on proposals for large-scale shifts in land use. Debates over the ideological orientation, political strategy and implementation of the Green New Deal must now account for the economic and employment impacts of COVID.

JEL Codes: Q43, Q54, Q56, Q58
Rethinking the Paradigm and Practice of Occupational Health in a World Without Decent Work: A Perspective From East and Southern Africa
Authors: Loewenson Rene
Published: May 2021

The global political economy is generating new forms and growing shares of informal, insecure, and precarious labor, adding to histories of insecure work and an externalization of social costs. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the consequences of ignoring such signals in terms of the increased risk and vulnerability of insecure labor. This paper explores how such trends are generating intersecting adverse health outcomes for workers, communities, and environments and the implications for breaking siloes and building links between the paradigms, science, practice, and tools for occupational health, public health, and eco-health. Applying the principle of controlling hazards at the source is argued in this context to call for an understanding of the upstream production and socio-political factors that are jointly affecting the nature of work and employment and their impact on the health of workers, the public, and the planet.
Healthcare Provider Perspectives Regarding Use of Medical Interpreters During End-of-Life Conversations With Limited English Proficient Patients
Authors: Silva Milagros D. , Adelman Ronald D. , Singh Vishwas , Gupta Renuka , Moxley Jerad , Sobota Rosanna M. , Tsai Stephanie , Abel Brittany T. , Reid M. Carrington
Published: May 2021

Background:

Healthcare providers increasingly care for patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). There is limited research evaluating healthcare provider utilization practices, attitudes, perceived benefits and barriers regarding the use of medical interpreters in end of life (EOL) and goals of care (GOC) conversations.

Objectives:

To elicit healthcare providers’ opinions of the role, factors that impact decisions to use medical interpreters and perceived utility of using medical interpreters when conducting EOL and GOC conversations with LEP patients and their families.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey of internal medicine trainees and attending physicians from a U.S. medical center.

Results:

A total of 117 surveys were collected with a response rate of 51%. In-person medical interpreters received higher ratings with regard to their helpfulness compared to telephone medical interpreters during EOL and GOC conversations. Being an attending physician and having received training in the use of a medical interpreter predicted higher composite scores reflecting greater awareness of the roles of medical interpreters and endorsement of best communication practices. In-person interpreters were viewed by a subset of participants as “standard of care” during EOL and GOC conversations.

Conclusion:

Having more years in practice and receiving training in the use of medical interpreters correlated with more favorable attitudes toward the role of medical interpreters and positive communication practices. Incorporating early training in the use of medical interpreters could help enhance communication practices and outcomes during EOL and GOC conversations with LEP patients.
Fluctuating Code Status: Strategies to Minimize End-of-Life Conflict in the Neurocritical Care Setting
Authors: Rath Kelly A. , Tucker Kristi L. , Lewis Ariane
Published: May 2021

Background:

There are multiple factors that may cause end-of-life conflict in the critical care setting. These include severe illness, family distress, lack of awareness about a patient’s wishes, prognostic uncertainty, and the participation of multiple providers in goals-of-care discussions.

Methods:

Case report and discussion of the associated ethical issues.

Results:

We present a case of a patient with a pontine stroke, in which the family struggled with decision-making about goals-of-care, leading to fluctuation in code status from Full Code to Do Not Resuscitate-Comfort Care, then back to Full Code, and finally to Do Not Resuscitate-Do Not Intubate. We discuss factors that contributed to this situation and methods to avoid conflict. Additionally, we review the effects of discord at the end-of-life on patients, families, and the healthcare team.

Conclusion:

It is imperative that healthcare teams proactively collaborate with families to minimize end-of-life conflict by emphasizing decision-making that prioritizes the best interest and autonomy of the patient.
Regulation of Cortisol in Patients Undergoing Total Joint Arthoplasty
Authors: Khanna Rajan , Slovacek Hannah , Liles Jeffrey , Haddad Sandra , Poredos Pavel , Bontekoe Emily , Jezovnik Mateja , Hoppensteadt Debra , Fareed Jawed , Hopkinson William
Published: May 2021

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which joint cartilage and bone degenerate progressively over time. Total joint arthroplasty is a definitive treatment. Cortisol is a hormone that is associated with pain and inflammation. This study aims to investigate the cortisol levels in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty. Plasma samples were collected from 71 total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients at baseline (pre-surgery), 24 hours post-operation, and 5 days post-operation. Cortisol levels were measured in each sample using a commercially available ELISA kit. All results were compiled as group means ± SD. The plasma cortisol level at baseline were 218.5 ± 12 ng/mL. The 24-hour post-surgical samples showed a marked increase in cortisol levels 240.7 ± 15 ng/mL. The blood samples drawn at the 5th day after surgery showed a downward trend (74 ± 12 ng/mL). At 5 days post-operation, cortisol levels were significantly lower than at baseline or 24 hours post-operation. These results point to the fact that prior to surgery, the patient’s emotional stress contributes to increased serum cortisol levels. The higher level of cortisol persists at 24 hours post-operation due to inflammation from the procedure. This data also suggests that at 5 days post-operation, the inflammatory response from the surgery and emotional stress subside, resulting in a near normalization of the cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that plays a major role in the body’s response to surgery. The relevance between cortisol and different points in the surgical timeline has the potential to prognosticate and improve recovery measures.
A rare presentation of panitumumab-involved interstitial lung disease: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum
Authors: Yakar Nuri , Ergun Bisar , Ugur Levent , Ates Umit Can , Gezer Sinem , Comert Bilgin
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Developments in targeted molecular therapies have considerably improved patient survival in cancer. Panitumumab is a monoclonal antibody against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). It is used to treat metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Although panitumumab is well tolerated in most patients, pulmonary toxicity, especially interstitial lung disease (ILD), is a life-threatening condition. The presentation of panitumumab-induced ILD with spontaneous pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema is rarely reported.

Case report

We describe a 61-year-old male with metastatic colorectal carcinoma treated with FOLFIRI (folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil, irinotecan) and panitumumab. He presented to our hospital with a complaint of severe dyspnea. On the evaluation of dyspnea, the patient was diagnosed with ILD.

Management and outcome

After exclusion of other common causes of pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema, panitumumab was attributed as a cause of ILD. Oxygen therapy via high flow nasal cannula and intravenous methylprednisolone regimen was started. After two weeks, the patient became asymptomatic with the radiologic amelioration.

Discussion

Panitumumab-induced ILD is associated with a poor prognosis and might occur randomly in one year after the drug administration. The possibility of the disease should be considered on every admission. Early recognition, discontinuation of causative medication, and immediate glucocorticoid therapy are essential to reduce mortality.
Existence of solution in the bending of thin plates with Gurtin–Murdoch surface elasticity
Authors: Gharahi Alireza , Schiavone Peter
Published: May 2021

We consider the well-posedness of classical boundary value problems in a theory of bending of thin plates which incorporates the effects of surface elasticity via the Gurtin–Murdoch surface model. We employ the fundamental solution of the governing system of equations to develop integral-type solutions of the corresponding Dirichlet, Neumann, and Robin boundary value problems. Using the boundary integral equation method, we subsequently establish results for the existence of a solution in the appropriate function spaces.
Axial guided wave characteristics in functionally graded one-dimensional hexagonal piezoelectric quasi-crystal cylinders
Authors: Zhang B. , Wang X.H. , Elmaimouni L. , Yu J.G. , Zhang X.M.
Published: May 2021

In one-dimensional hexagonal piezoelectric quasi-crystals, there exist the phonon–phason, electro–phonon, and electro–phason couplings. Therefore, the phonon–phason coupling and piezoelectric effects on axial guided wave characteristics in one-dimensional hexagonal functionally graded piezoelectric quasi-crystal (FGPQC) cylinders are investigated by utilizing the Legendre polynomial series method. The dispersion curves and cut-off frequencies are illustrated. Wave characteristics in three hollow cylinders with different quasi-periodic directions are comparatively studied. Some new wave phenomena are revealed: the phonon–phason coupling and piezoelectric effects on the longitudinal and torsional phonon modes ( N = 0) vary as the quasi-periodic direction changes; the phonon–phason coupling effect on flexural–torsional modes in the r-, z-FGPQC hollow cylinders, and on flexural–longitudinal modes in ϑ-FGPQC hollow cylinders increases as N increases. The corresponding results obtained in this work lay the theoretical foundation for the design and manufacture of piezoelectric transducers with high resolution and energy-conversion efficiency.
Travel for Affection: A Stimulus-Organism-Response Model of Honeymoon Tourism Experiences
Authors: Chen Ganghua , So Kevin Kam Fung , Hu Xianyang , Poomchaisuwan Mutita
Published: May 2021

Taking stimuli-organism-response theory as a conceptual framework, this study advances theoretical understanding of the honeymoon tourism experience (HTE) by examining its empirical linkages with key constructs underlying the wider nomological network within which it is situated, including perceived destination attributes (PDAs), memorable tourism experiences (MTEs), emotions, overall satisfaction, and behavioral intentions. We adopted a sequential mixed-methods approach, in which a qualitative phase was followed by a quantitative phase of data collection and analysis (Study 1, n = 117; Study 2, n = 306). The results of partial least square path modeling revealed how PDAs drive honeymooners’ emotions and MTEs. Honeymooners’ emotions and MTEs were found to significantly influence their overall satisfaction, which further influenced their behavioral intentions. Mediation analysis highlighted emotions, MTEs, and overall satisfaction as significant mediators, suggesting their pertinence as factors in HTE. This study contributes to the literature by developing and testing a theoretically holistic model underlying HTE.
Long-term outcomes of anterior chest wall arteriovenous graft with polyurethane
Authors: Shimasaki Megumi , Rachi Hiromu , Shiratori Kimitoshi , Takanohashi Seiko , Uyama Satoko , Yamada Kei , Totsuka Yuichi , Takanohasi Akira , Shirota Kazuaki , Nakamura Hajime , Togawa Akashi
Published: May 2021

Background:

Anterior chest wall arteriovenous graft (ACWAVG) is one option for haemodialysis patients when vessels of the upper extremities become exhausted. We report here the long-term outcomes of ACWAVG with polyurethane.

Methods:

From April 2005 to October 2015, nine ACWAVGs with polyurethane grafts were created. We observed patients until April 2019 and evaluated graft patency, interval from operation to first cannulation, and numbers of interventions and complications.

Results:

Primary patency rate and secondary patency rate of 6, 12 and 24 months were 55.3%, 33.3%, 33.3% and 77.8%, 55.6%, 55.6% respectively. Mean interval from operation to first cannulation was 3 days. Infection rate and kinking formation rate were slightly higher than previous reports of ACWAVGs with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). However, one patient was able to keep using a single graft for 166 months with multiple interventions.

Conclusions:

Slight disadvantage are seen with patency rate and complication rate in polyurethane ACWAVG compare to ePTFE. However, when early cannulation is required, polyurethane is worth to consider for creating ACWAVG.
Indigenous women refusing the violence of resource extraction in Oaxaca
Authors: Altamirano-Jiménez Isabel
Published: May 2021

This article examines the connections among the expansion of natural resource extraction, gender violence, and Indigenous refusal. It demonstrates how free market mining is operationalized through everyday violent practices that are perpetrated on human and nonhuman bodies. It moves from the global to the body to the community of bodies and the bodies of non-human entities to show the ways in which mining activities and violence are refused in Oaxaca, Mexico. By exploring Indigenous women’s practices of refusal, it critiques separations of mind and body, land and body, life and non-life, and centers the web of relationships that constitutes Indigenous life.
Contextualising assessment within Aotearoa New Zealand: drawing from mātauranga Māori
Authors: Kerr Brigit Giovanna , Averill Robin Margaret
Published: May 2021

There is long-standing disparity between the schooling success of many Māori (Indigenous peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand) learners and non-Māori learners. While much work internationally and nationally has focussed on culturally responsive pedagogies, the idea of culturally sustaining assessment has received less attention. Given the historical dominance of a West-centric education system, assessment practices within Aotearoa New Zealand schools have not necessarily embedded a Māori worldview. Informed by cultural advice, assessment constructs that embody manaakitanga (care, respect, hospitality), wānanga (a forum, a sharing of knowledge, a place of learning) and culturally sustaining pedagogy were examined alongside a literature review and analysis of interviews with four education practitioners. Results show that assessment can be designed to acknowledge Māori learners’ capabilities and educational successes. Findings, presented using a Hauora Approach to Assessment (Well-being Approach to Assessment) framework, provide much needed ways for teachers to contextualise assessment within mātauranga Māori (Maori knowledge system).
Seronegative Arthritis as a Complication of Whipple’s Disease
Authors: DeBoer Rebecca , Jayatilaka Sahani , Donato Anthony
Published: May 2021

Whipple’s disease (WD) is an uncommon cause of seronegative arthritis. WD is known for its gastrointestinal symptoms of diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain. However, arthritis may precede gastrointestinal symptoms by 6 to 7 years. We describe a case of an 85-year-old Caucasian male with multiple joint complaints, not responsive to traditional treatments for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. We suggest that WD be considered for seronegative arthritis especially affecting large joints.