bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interrogating the MSP Regime, Farm Laws and Agrarian Future in India
Authors: Singh Pritam , Bhogal Shruti
Published: November 2021

The three new farm laws promulgated by the Government of India in 2020 (now repealed) as agricultural marketing reforms, with the claim that they were aimed at expanding farmers’ marketing choices and increasing their incomes, have triggered massive protests by farmers. These protests have crystallized around two key demands: first, repeal the laws and second, make the minimum support price (MSP) for procuring farmers’ produce a legal right. Given that discussions between the government and farmers’ organizations continue to be at an impasse, it is critical to understand the arguments over the laws and the MSP, and the implications of these arguments for the agrarian future of India.
Separating Wheat from the Chaff: Farm Acts, Farmers’ Protest and Outcomes
Authors: Singh Lakhwinder , Shergill Baldev Singh
Published: November 2021

The farmers’ protest at the outskirts of Delhi has completed one year and still continuing. It was triggered after the Government of India enacted three farm Acts in September 2020 (now repealed) that strive to initiate sweeping reforms in agricultural produce selling, procurement, and storage and public distribution of essential commodities. In this context, an attempt has been made in this article to examine the claim of both the government and the farmers’ unions leading the protest movement. The contribution of this study is manifold: in terms of tracing the evolution of the current farmers’ protest movement, farmer unions’ negotiations with the government, loss of human lives, and outcomes. It is found that farm Acts are structurally flawed and risk the food security of the country besides preparing ground for eviction of smallholders from agriculture altogether. The analysis of the field survey based on characteristics of 460 deceased farmers during the participation in the protest reveals that they belonged to the lowest rung of the farmers. The support to the family members left behind has come from various quarters but is inadequate. The article argues that the state autonomy to take policy decisions regarding farm Acts should be protected. The union government should develop institutional mechanism to take along all stakeholders for resolving the international and inter-state issues concerning agriculture sector.
“Don’t be so Harsh”: Influence Tactics, Support Transactions, and Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: George-Levi Sivan , Laslo-Roth Roni
Published: November 2021

The current study examined the association between both partners’ perceptions of the other partner's use of influence tactics during conflicts (harsh vs. soft) and both partners’ relationship satisfaction. Using a dyadic approach, the mediating role of support transactions (i.e., given and received support) was also examined. One-hundred and thirteen couples filled out questionnaires regarding partners’ use of influence tactics, received and given support, and relationship satisfaction. Results indicated one partner effect; namely, women's received support was found to be a mediator between women's perception of their partners’ use of harsh tactics and both partners’ satisfaction. There was only one actor mediation effect of given support and that was observed among women alone; namely, given support mediated the association between harsh tactics and women's relationship satisfaction. Gender and support transaction may play an important role in explaining the link between harsh tactics and relationship satisfaction.
Vibration source identification using an energy density method
Authors: Mao Chen , Wong Wai On , Cheng Li
Published: November 2021

The localization of shaking forces acting on an operating machine is an important step to identify vibration and noise sources. The forced vibration response of a linearly vibrating structure is assumed to be linear. However, the energy distribution of a linearly vibrating structure contains “coupled terms” in the modal decomposition of the vibration energy density function. These coupled energy terms represent the cross-modal energy density associated with the exciting force of a dynamic structure under forced vibration. In this research, it is proved analytically that the high-order cross-modal energy densities of a linear dynamic structure are highly correlated to the location of the external exciting force. Using this finding, a new force localization index based on the high-order cross-modal energy densities of a dynamic structure is proposed and tested. Numerical tests on uniform and step beam structures under force excitation with different frequencies and locations have been carried out to test the effectiveness of the proposed force localization method. It is found that the proposed force localization method works well on vibrating beam structures. Experiments are carried out to verify the proposed force localization method.
Strategic Submission to Rape is not Consent: Sexual Violence in the Colombian Armed Conflict
Authors: Stallone Kiran
Published: November 2021

Academic literature is only beginning to understand victims’ rational calculations and agency related to sexual violence in war and conflict. This article deepens that analysis, emphasizing calculated action rather than passive victimization. This is a systematic study of victims’ strategic responses to sexual violence, and reports findings from an in-depth analysis of women who were raped in the context of Colombia's armed conflict (1964-present), revealing that this context triggers a strategic response by victims of rape. Specifically, some women calculate that submitting to unwanted sex is more likely to protect them and others, such as family members, from significant harm than resisting rape. However, while their strategic responses may protect them and allow them to keep their families safe from greater harm, the methods adopted by women in these situations may complicate their efforts at being recognized as victims, undercutting their access to legal and social rights in the aftermath of war and conflict.
Effectiveness of technology-based psychosocial interventions on diabetes distress and health-relevant outcomes among type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yap Jia Min , Tantono Natalia , Wu Vivien Xi , Klainin-Yobas Piyanee
Published: November 2021

Background

Poor management of type 2 diabetes mellitus may affect individuals’ physical and emotional health. Access to ongoing psychosocial interventions through technological platforms may potentially minimise diabetes complications and improve health-related outcomes. However, little is known about the effectiveness of such interventions on diabetes distress and health-related outcomes.

Objective

To synthesise the best available evidence concerning the effectiveness of technology-based psychosocial interventions on diabetes distress, self-efficacy, health-related quality of life, and HbA1c level in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A search of eleven databases was conducted to identify randomised controlled trials that examined the effects of technology-based psychosocial interventions on the outcomes. Randomised controlled trials reported in English from 2010 to 2020 were included. Selection of studies, quality appraisal, and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers independently. Meta-analyses, subgroup analyses and sensitivity analysis were performed using Review Manager. Intervention effects was measured using standardise mean difference.

Results

Twenty randomised controlled trials fulfilled the eligibility criteria and 18 randomised controlled trials were included in meta-analysis. technology-based psychosocial interventions improved diabetes distress, self-efficacy and HbA1c levels with significant and small effect sizes. Subgroup analyses revealed greater improvement in health-related quality of life for participants with comorbid depression and lower HbA1c levels for studies with lesser than 100 participants.

Conclusion

The findings of this review increase knowledge on the effectiveness of technology-based psychosocial interventions on diabetes distress and self-efficacy. However, evidence to support the effects of technology-based psychosocial interventions on HbA1c and health-related quality of life was not strong. More research is needed to examine the effectiveness of the psychosocial interventions delivered through mobile applications or virtual reality.
An Analysis of Admissions to a Refugee Child Mental Health Unit in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ünver Hatice , Perdahlı Fiş Neşe
Published: November 2021

Background

To examine the admissions to a refugee child outpatient mental health unit in the COVID-19 pandemic and to compare them with the pre-pandemic period.

Methods

This retrospective observational study, planned through the hospital information system and patient files, included the 1-year number of outpatient unit admissions, sociodemographic, and clinical data.

Results

Before the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2019–February 2020), a total of 2322 patients (local and refugee) applied to the same unit, and 236 (10.1%) of these patients were refugees. Since the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey (March 2020–February 2021), 1209 patients applied, and 10.4% ( n = 126) of them were refugees. While 19.66 ± 6.31 refugees applied per month in the pre-pandemic period, this number decreased to 10.50 ± 5.31 during the pandemic period ( p = 0.01). During the pandemic period, there was a significant decrease in the number of female refugee patient admissions. In addition, while admissions for external disorders increased significantly during the pandemic period ( x 2 = 13.99, p = 0.001), admissions for internal disorders decreased significantly ( x 2 = 4.54, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The decrease in the mental health unit demands with the pandemic may lead to negative consequences in the long term. To determine mental health and psychological needs of patients during the outbreak will greatly contribute to the pandemic management process.
Studies of autistic traits in the general population are not studies of autism
Authors: Sasson Noah J , Bottema-Beutel Kristen
Published: November 2021

Studies of autistic traits in the general population are becoming increasingly prevalent. In this letter to the editor, we caution researchers against framing and interpreting studies of autistic traits in the general population as extending to autism and implore them to be clear about when their study sample does and does not include autistic participants.
Moral cosmopolitanism, civic action and ethical consumption: Social differences in young Australians’ global citizenship
Authors: Maire Quentin
Published: November 2021

The relationship between global citizenship identity and actions remains an unsettled issue. In this article we use the PISA 2018 survey to explore whether global citizenship identity is associated with a greater likelihood of engaging in ‘globally minded’ practices among young Australians. Descriptive analysis reveals that self-reported global citizenship identity is associated with higher levels of moral cosmopolitanism, more so than with greater intercultural values or with more positive attitudes to immigrants. However, this self-declared identity does not necessarily translate into cosmopolitan action. Statistical modelling shows that, in the Australian context, global citizenship knowledge, values and identity account for a limited proportion of differences in self-reported cosmopolitan action. We argue that a sociological theory of practice helps explain these results. We conclude by highlighting future research opportunities to better understand the social determinants of global citizenship practices, including by exploring out-of-school socialisation and a broader range of cosmopolitan practices.
Theorising violence in mobility: A case of Nepali women migrant workers
Authors: Grossman-Thompson Barbara
Published: November 2021

In this article, I examine violence as constitutive of mobility for the feminine diasporic subject through an examination of women migrant workers from Nepal. I frame this project with two distinct theoretical approaches to understanding violence. First, I draw upon Catharine MacKinnon's provocative question ‘Are women human?’ to elucidate points of disjuncture between individual women migrants and state policy that dehumanises them. Second, I address some of the gaps in MacKinnon's work by turning to Judith Butler's theory of violence as primarily embodied in the corporeal subject. Drawing on 30 in-depth interviews with returned women migrant workers, I examine three moments in the migration process that demonstrate how violence operates ubiquitously in and through circuits of mobility. I conclude that by putting Butler's and Mackinnon's approaches to violence in dialogue and examining the Nepali case through a dialectic framework, intriguing possibilities for approaching migration and its problematics are revealed.
Bridge pier scour level quantification based on output-only Kalman filtering
Authors: Ghorbani Esmaeil , Svecova Dagmar , Thomson Douglas J , Cha Young-Jin
Published: November 2021

Soil scour near a bridge pier foundation is one of the leading causes of bridge failures. Traditional vibration-based scour monitoring methods are nearly incapable of quantifying scour levels using a single acceleration response without knowledge of excitation information. In this paper, a new output-only scour level prediction method is introduced via the integration of an unscented Kalman filter (UKF), random decrement (RD), and newly derived continuous Euler–Bernoulli beam addressing river water, traffic loads, and the linear and nonlinear behavior of sediments around the pier as external effects. We conducted extensive simulation studies and applied the method to an existing medium-span bridge with a steel girder and concrete deck in service in the province of Manitoba, Canada. These studies show that our proposed method can accurately estimate scour levels using only one accelerometer, which was validated with an independent bathymetric survey of the soil level at the pier foundation. Furthermore, three different linear and nonlinear soil profiles representing the soil behavior around the pier were also investigated as case studies in the scour level estimation process. The results confirm that a cubic function exhibits the best performance in quantifying the scour level around bridge piers.
Fostering medical staff reflection on the technological alienation of parents in the NICU
Authors: Brummett Abram , Friedrich Annie B.
Published: November 2021

We describe a case of parents refusing a tracheostomy for an otherwise healthy newborn. The refusal was not honored because permitting the refusal would have violated state law, which required a child to have a qualifying condition (e.g. a terminal diagnosis, permanent unconsciousness, incurable condition with severe suffering) to remove or withhold life-sustaining treatment. However, this case strained the relationship between the parents and medical staff, who worried about sending the newborn home with a tracheostomy where she was not wanted. While many ethical issues arise in treatment refusal cases like this, we focus on the opportunity for ethicists to help the medical staff reflect on the technological alienation of the parents, which may help foster empathy, reduce moral distress, and strengthen the quality of the doctor-parent-patient triad.
The case for compulsory surgical smoke evacuation systems in the operating theatre
Authors: Rodger Daniel
Published: November 2021

Perioperative staff are frequently exposed to surgical smoke or plume created by using heat-generating devices like diathermy and lasers. This is a concern due to mounting evidence that this exposure can be harmful with no safe level of exposure yet identified. First, I briefly summarise the problem posed by surgical smoke exposure and highlight that many healthcare organisations are not sufficiently satisfying their legal and ethical responsibilities to protect their staff from potential harm. Second, I explore the ethical case for compulsory smoke evacuation systems using the principlist framework and its four ethical principles – autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. I then consider some objections and argue that surgical smoke evacuation systems – when indicated – should be made compulsory.
Conscience absolutism via legislative amendment
Authors: West-Oram Peter G. N. , Nunes Jordanna A. A.
Published: November 2021

On 30 June 2021, Ohio state Governor, Mike DeWine, signed a Bill which would enact the state's budget for the next two years. In addition to its core funding imperatives, the Bill also contained an amendment significantly expanding entitlements of health care providers to conscientiously object to professional duties to provide controversial health care services. This amendment has been heavily criticised as providing the means to allow health care providers to discriminate against a wide range of persons by denying them access to often contested services such as abortion and contraception. In this paper, we examine the implications of this amendment and situate it in relation to other legislative actions intended to guarantee absolute rights to conscientious objection. In doing so, we argue that the entitlements extended to health care providers by these Bills are overly broad and ignore their potential to allow significant harm to be caused to clients. We then argue that if health care providers should have rights to conscientiously object (a question we do not try an answer here), then any legislation intended to protect such rights should be limited, specific, and parsimonious. Where it is not, the ideological liberty of HCPs treads dangerously on the physical freedom of their clients.
Title: Blood flow restricted exercise training: Perspectives of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and health professionals
Authors: Pereira-Neto Elisio A , Johnston Kylie N , Lewthwaite Hayley , Boyle Terry , Fon Andrew , Williams Marie T
Published: November 2021

Objective

This descriptive qualitative study explored perspectives of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and health professionals concerning blood flow restricted exercise (BFRE) training.

Methods

People living with COPD and health professionals (exercise physiologists, physiotherapists, and hospital-based respiratory nurses and doctors) participated in interviews or focus groups, which included information about BFRE training and a facilitated discussion of positive aspects, barriers and concerns about BFRE training as a possible exercise-based intervention. Sessions were audio-recorded, and transcript data analysed using inductive content analysis.

Results

Thirty-one people participated (people with COPD n = 6; health professionals n = 25). All participant groups expressed positive perceptions of BFRE as a potential alternative low-intensity exercise mode where health benefits might be achieved. Areas of overlap in perceived barriers and concerns included the need to address the risk of potential adverse events, suitability of training sites and identifying processes to appropriately screen potential candidates.

Discussion

While potential benefits were identified, concerns about determining who is safe and suitable to participate, delivery processes, health professional training and effects on a variety of health-related outcomes need to be addressed before implementation of BFRE training for people with COPD.
Improving Campus Alcohol Policies Through Assessment and Scoring
Authors: Jernigan David H. , Cureg Janika Blaise , Mitchell Molly , Arria Amelia M.
Published: November 2021

Excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for more than 1,500 deaths annually among college students, of whom more than one in three report having been drunk during the past 30 days. Campus alcohol policies offer a first line of defense against excessive alcohol use but have received little systematic attention in the research literature. The research team previously developed a taxonomy of campus alcohol policies and sanctions, ranked in order of effectiveness, and assessed the accessibility, clarity, and effectiveness of policies at 15 post-secondary educational institutions. Herein we describe the process of reporting those assessments back to the 15 institutions, providing them with recommendations and technical assistance on how to improve their policies, and then re-assessing school alcohol policies for effectiveness and clarity. Conversations with primary points of contact at each school provided further insight into the process of assessing and improving campus alcohol policies. Of the 15 schools assessed, 11 added more effective policies, and four added more effective consequences during the 2 years following receipt of reports on the assessment. Campuses have control over their own policies, and greater attention to them from researchers and practitioners could better maximize their potential for enhancing student health and safety and supporting student success.
Identification and Integrate Analysis of Key Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Gong Ke , Zhou Huiling , Liu Haidan , Xie Ting , Luo Yong , Guo Hui , Chen Jinlan , Tan Zhiping , Yang Yifeng , Xie Li
Published: November 2021

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer affecting humans. However, appropriate biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis have not yet been established. Here, we evaluated the gene expression profiles of patients with NSCLC to identify novel biomarkers. Methods: Three datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and differentially expressed genes were analyzed. Venn diagram software was applied to screen differentially expressed genes, and gene ontology functional analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed. Cytoscape was used to analyze protein-protein interactions (PPI) and Kaplan–Meier Plotter was used to evaluate the survival rates. Oncomine database, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), and The Human Protein Atlas (THPA) were used to analyze protein expression. Quantitative real-time polymerase (qPCR) chain reaction was used to verify gene expression. Results: We identified 595 differentially expressed genes shared by the three datasets. The PPI network of these differentially expressed genes had 202 nodes and 743 edges. Survival analysis identified 10 hub genes with the highest connectivity, 9 of which ( CDC20, CCNB2, BUB1, CCNB1, CCNA2, KIF11, TOP2A, NDC80, and ASPM) were related to poor overall survival in patients with NSCLC. In cell experiments, CCNB1, CCNB2, CCNA2, and TOP2A expression levels were upregulated, and among different types of NSCLC, these four genes showed highest expression in large cell lung cancer. The highest prognostic value was detected for patients who had successfully undergone surgery and for those who had not received chemotherapy. Notably, CCNB1 and CCNA2 showed good prognostic value for patients who had not received radiotherapy. Conclusion: CCNB1, CCNB2, CCNA2, and TOP2A expression levels were upregulated in patients with NSCLC. These genes may be meaningful diagnostic biomarkers and could facilitate the development of targeted therapies.
Endoscopic Cervical Lymph Node Dissection Using the Extra-cervical Anterior Chest Wall Approach: A New Technique
Authors: Elzahaby Islam A. , Shetiwy Mosab , Hossam Amr , Elafy Amr
Published: November 2021

Introduction

This study aims to demonstrate the safety, surgical feasibility, and esthetic features of total endoscopic neck dissection (END) through anterior chest wall approach (ACWA) without creation of any neck incisions. Resection of their primary tumors followed by selective total END through ACWA using 3 ports (one 10-mm port for the camera and two 5-mm ports for the working instruments).

Methods

From January 2020 to August 2020, 6 patients with a biopsy proven head and neck carcinoma underwent resection of their primary tumors followed by selective total END through ACWA using 3 ports (one 10-mm port for the camera and two 5-mm ports for the working instruments).

Results

The selective neck dissection was successfully performed endoscopically in all cases with no conversion to open approach and with good visualization of the major neurovascular structures. The operative time for the END ranged from 120 to 170 minutes, with 10–50 mL estimated blood loss. No significant perioperative complications were encountered. The mean total number of cervical LN retrieved was 13.67 + 2.42, and the mean LNR was .01 + .13. All patients were discharged in the third postoperative day, and they were satisfied with the cosmetic outcome.

Conclusion

Selective total END through ACWA is technically feasible and safe with satisfactory cosmetic results. The absence of neck scars and magnification of the important neurovascular structures are the most obvious advantages of this innovative technique. It may be a valid alternative to conventional surgery when performed in selected patients. However, further research with longer follow up is needed to clarify the oncological safety and the real benefits of END in head and neck cancer patients.
Study on process of chemical fiber filament automatic doffing system based on simulation platform and machine learning
Authors: Zhu Hongxin , Zou Kun , Bao Wenlan
Published: November 2021

In recent years, a large number of automatic equipment has been introduced into the chemical fiber filament doffing production line, but the related research on the fully automatic production line technology is not yet mature. At present, it is difficult to collect data due to test costs and confidentiality. This paper proposes to develop a simulation platform for a chemical fiber filament doffing production line, which enables us to effectively obtain data and quantitatively study the relationship between the number of manual interventions and other process parameters of the production line. Considering that the parameter research is a multi-factor problem, an orthogonal test was designed by using SPSS software and was carried out by using a simulation platform. The multiple linear regression (MLR) and the neural network optimized by genetic algorithm were adopted to fit the relationship between the number of manual interventions and other parameters of the production line. The SPSS software was applied to obtain the standardized coefficients of the multiple linear regression fitting and the neural network mean impact value (MIV) algorithm was applied to obtain the magnitude and direction of the impact of different parameters on the number of manual interventions. The above results provide important reference for the design of similar new production lines and for the improvement of old production lines.
Designing compression of preventive compression stockings
Authors: Lozo Miloš , Lovričević Ivo , Pavlović Željka , Vrljičak Zlatko
Published: November 2021

The paper focuses on leg diseases and the application of preventive compression stockings in people who perform their working tasks in the standing position, pregnant women and recreational athletes. Specific amounts of compression classes from several significant European standards are shown. Structural properties of knitted fabric structure in the production of preventive compression stockings are given. Tubular elastic knitted fabric samples of uniform structure which are used in the production of preventive compression stockings and pantyhose were produced. The yarns used for knitting were PA microfilament yarns in the counts 40 dtex f 40 and 60 dtex f 60 and elastane yarn in the count 22/17 dtex f 7. Tubular elastic knitted fabric samples of the structure intended for preventive compression stockings were made on a single-bed hosiery knitting machine with a gauge of E32 and needle bed diameter of 100 mm (4″) with 400 needles. The samples were made in jersey plated and partially plated structure 1 + 1 at three loop sinking depths. The widths of the tubular knitted fabric samples were 98 to 113 mm. The produced samples were pulled onto rigid cylinders of the circumferences 240 to 790 mm and the compression measured by the Pico Press device was 1 to 24 hPa.
Neuroprotective Effects of Lycium barbarum Berry on Neurobehavioral Changes and Neuronal Loss in the Hippocampus of Mice Exposed to Acute Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Guo Lei , Du Qian-Qian , Cheng Piao-Qin , Yang Ting-Ting , Xing Chao-Qun , Luo Xue-Zhi , Peng Xiao-Chun , Qian Feng , Huang Jiang-Rong , Tang Feng-Ru
Published: November 2021

Background: Brain exposure to ionizing radiation during the radiotherapy of brain tumor or metastasis of peripheral cancer cells to the brain has resulted in cognitive dysfunction by reducing neurogenesis in hippocampus. The water extract of Lycium barbarum berry (Lyc), containing water-soluble Lycium barbarum polysaccharides and flavonoids, can protect the neuronal injury by reducing oxidative stress and suppressing neuroinflammation.

Reseach Design: To demonstrate the long-term radioprotective effect of Lyc, we evaluated the neurobehavioral alterations and the numbers of NeuN, calbindin (CB), and parvalbumin (PV) immunopositive hippocampal neurons in BALB/c mice after acute 5.5 Gy radiation with/without oral administration of Lyc at the dosage of 10 g/kg daily for 4 weeks.

Results: The results showed that Lyc could improve irradiation-induced animal weight loss, depressive behaviors, spatial memory impairment, and hippocampal neuron loss. Immunohistochemistry study demonstrated that the loss of NeuN-immunopositive neuron in the hilus of the dentate gyrus, CB-immunopositive neuron in CA1 strata radiatum, lacunosum moleculare and oriens, and PV-positive neuron in CA1 stratum pyramidum and stratum granulosum of the dentate gyrus after irradiation were significantly improved by Lyc treatment.

Conclusion: The neuroprotective effect of Lyc on those hippocampal neurons may benefit the configuration of learning related neuronal networks and then improve radiation induced neurobehavioral changes such as cognitive impairment and depression. It suggests that  Lycium barbarum berry may be an alternative food supplement to prevent radiation-induced neuron loss and neuropsychological disorders.
Displacement prediction and optimization of a non-circular planetary gear hydraulic motor
Authors: Zhang Biao , Song Shikuan , Jing Chenghu , Xiang Dong
Published: November 2021

The non-circular planetary gear hydraulic motor is a low-speed and high-torque hydraulic motor with excellent performance. It has the characteristics of a wide speed range, low weight and is widely used in various fields. Aiming to solve the problem of there being no intuitive formula for calculating the displacement of the non-circular planetary gear hydraulic motor at present, based on the analysis of the effects of structural parameters on the displacement of the motor, this paper proposes a formula for calculating the displacement of a non-circular planetary gear hydraulic motor when the pitch curve of the sun wheel is a high-order ellipse. The formula allows the direct calculation and prediction of the displacement of the motor. To improve the unit volume displacement of the hydraulic motor (which determines the power density of the motor), based on the analysis of the unit volume displacement constraints, an optimization equation is proposed by adding an optimization factor to the original equation of the pitch curve of the sun wheel. It is seen that the addition of the new optimization factor eliminates the self-interlacing of the pitch curve of inner ring gear. This elimination increases the unit volume displacement of the motor.
The association of hepatitis C virus infection and thyroid disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Hongpeng , Liu Yixiu , Zhao Yanguang
Published: November 2021

Previous studies have reported that hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may increase the risk of thyroid disease (TD) even thyroid cancer (TC), but quantitative assessments of risk were rare and the results were not consistent. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of HCV infection on TD and TC, and provide clues to explore the relationship between HCV infection and TD and TC. The literature retrieval was performed up to August 20th, 2021 in the database of PubMed, Cochrane library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wang Fang. The risk of HCV for TD or TC was expressed with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup analysis was used to explore the source of heterogeneity. Six articles (three studies published as article and three studies published as abstract) were included in this meta-analysis, with a total of 5398 controls and 1925 cases of hepatitis C. The results of meta-analysis found that HCV infection were significantly associated with an increased risk of TD (sum OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.54–2.10, P <  0.001, I2 = 74.3%) and TC (sum OR = 16.36, 95% CI = 4.65-57.62, P < 0.001, I2 = 0%). HCV infection may increase the risk of TD and TC. More work is needed in the future to establish a causal role, however an awareness of the possibility of increased risk of TD and TC may lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes in patients with hepatitis C.
Update on the therapy of adult-onset Still’s disease with a focus on IL-1-inhibition: a systematic review
Authors: Kedor Claudia , Tomaras Stylianos , Baeumer Daniel , Feist Eugen
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

The past decade has seen increasingly rapid advances in understanding the pathogenic nature of adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) and its shared symptoms with the systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA). Interleukin-1 (IL-1) blocking agents are key elements in the treatment. In this updated systematic review, we focus on studies on efficacy and safety of IL-1 blockers published in the past 5 years and review on latest available therapies.

Methods:

We conducted searches using Medline, Biosis, Embase, and Cochrane databases between 2016 and 2021 using the terms AOSD, IL1, IL-18, canakinumab, anakinra, tadekinig, and rilonacept and if applicable their trade names. Duplicates, case reports, and manuscripts with incomplete data were excluded.

Results:

Of the 1013 screened publications, 17 were eligible after careful selection. We only found two published randomized controlled studies in the past 5 years. Review manuscripts of rare diseases, like our work, usually rely on retrospective studies and case series. Anakinra and canakinumab can be successfully used as first- or further-line treatment in patients with AOSD refractory to steroids. A homogeneous outcome is not established yet. Thus, a combination of clinical and laboratory tests can support the experienced clinician in the decision-making process.

Conclusion:

The approval of IL-1 inhibitors for AOSD brought us into a new era in the treatment of AOSD. The overall efficacy-safety profile of the IL-1 inhibitors is favorable reflecting a targeted approach as standard of care. We can expect that the successful treatment of AOSD with IL-1 inhibition will facilitate further clinical and basic research with impact on other auto-inflammatory and hyper-inflammatory conditions.
Feasibility and acceptance of a virtual multidisciplinary care programme for patients with type 2 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hernández-Jiménez Sergio , García-Ulloa Ana Cristina , Alcántara-Garcés María Teresa , Urbina-Arronte Luz Elena , Lara-Sánchez Carolina , Velázquez-Jurado Héctor Rafael ,   for the Group of Study CAIPaDi
Published: November 2021

Background and aims:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the major public health concerns. The current lifestyle and advances in technology resulted in the development of a virtual mode of professional healthcare, which is an effective alternative method of management of patients. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of implementation of a virtual comprehensive care programme during the COVID-19 pandemic, patients’ acceptance and the changes in self-care behaviours, metabolic parameters and emotional factors.

Methods:

The programme employed in this study included nine health interventions in 1 day. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the mode of interventions, including questionnaires, patient evaluations and a satisfaction survey, was modified to the virtual form in 2020. This study assessed the changes in self-care behaviours, metabolic parameters and emotional factors and compared the data pertaining to patients who received virtual healthcare in 2020 with those who received face-to-face modality of medical care in 2019.

Results:

During June to November 2020, 130 patients received healthcare by means of the virtual modality. The change in modality of healthcare was feasible and 75% of the patients displayed good acceptance of the same. The evaluation of self-care behaviours included self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) levels, foot care and regular exercise. The duration of exercise decreased from 120 to 0 min/week ( p < 0.001). However, there was no change in metabolic parameters. Regarding the mental health parameters, we observed an increase in the proportion of patients with anxiety (21.5% versus 11.1%), depressive symptoms (10.8% versus 4.3%), diabetes distress (18.5% versus 11.1%) and prescription of psychotropic drugs (32.8% versus 18.2%) ( p < 0.05) in virtual versus face-to-face, respectively.

Conclusion:

The virtual comprehensive care programme for the management of patients with diabetes is a feasible approach that allows healthcare professionals to provide an adequate care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Corneal Abrasions in Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Young Megan E. , Mears Simon C. , Sallam Ahmed B. , Sanders Riley N. , Barnes C. Lowry , Stambough Jeffrey B.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Corneal abrasion (CA) is the most common ocular complication in patients undergoing nonocular surgery. Corneal abrasions can be caused by a variety of mechanisms, the most common being drying of the cornea due to reduced tear secretions, loss of eyelid reflex, and the loss of pain recognition during surgery. Though CA heals well with eye lubricants, it can result in significant ocular pain and some cases may go on to develop ocular complications. With the current switch to outpatient total joint replacement, CA could potentially lead to discharge delays.

Materials and Methods

We examined the results of a quality improvement project to reduce CA during general anesthesia to determine the rates of CA during hip and knee total joint replacement. We compared rates of CA for 6 months before and 6 months after the intervention.

Results

A total of 670 hip and knee arthroplasty procedures were performed during this period. Two events of CA occurred, one occurred before and one after the intervention to decrease eye injuries. Both incidences occurred during total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures with the patient in the lateral decubitus position and recovered without long-term deficit.

Discussion

Surgeons and anesthesiologists alike should be cognizant of this avoidable complication and take precaution to protect the eyes during surgery, especially during THA when the patient is placed in the lateral decubitus position.

Conclusion

Corneal abrasion during total joint arthroplasty is a rare complication and is infrequently addressed in the literature. CA is mostly self-limiting, however, but may lead to patient dissatisfaction and to delays if same-day discharge is attempted. Preventative measures and attentive care may help reduce the incidence of CA in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty. The lateral decubitus position and longer surgeries times are risk factors for CA.
Can Word-Word Space Facilitate L2 Chinese Reading: Evidence From the Two Empirical Studies by Advanced L2 Learners of Mandarin Chinese
Authors: Chen Ken , Gu Lei , Zuo Hongshan , Bai Qiaoyan
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this article aims to analyze the effect of word-word space in written Chinese to advanced non-native speakers when they read and process Mandarin texts. The participants have performed one online reaction time experiment and another one offline pencil-paper test. The results indicate that the structure of word segmentation in written Chinese texts have play an effective role in sentences’ semantic processing, and the length and difficulty of sentences stimuli have also displayed significant function for their Chinese sentences processing. However, the results of offline test show that the combinational amount of segmental words have not affected the texts materials processed by advanced L2 participants. These results suggest that word boundary can facilitate L2 learners of Mandarin Chinese in processing text during their reading. Apart from theoretical implications, this article also proposes a new pedagogical approach to teaching text segmentation in Chinese, which can be useful in instructing Chinese as a second or foreign language.
Learning Strategies as Moderators Between Motivation and Mathematics Performance in East Asian Students: Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Wu Yi-Jhen , Chen Yi-Hsin , Kiefer Sarah M. , Carstensen Claus H.
Published: November 2021

This study applied a three-step latent class analysis (LCA) approach to explore latent classes of learning strategy use and their moderation effects on the relationships between motivation and mathematics performance. The data of 15-year-old students from five East Asian educational systems related to Chinese culture in the Programme of International Student Assessment (PISA) in 2012 were analyzed. The findings indicated that Shanghai, Singapore, Taiwan, and Macau showed three latent classes of learning strategies, whereas Hong Kong had two latent classes. Most students in the five educational systems reported to use the control strategy, some students reported the use of combined learning strategies, and few students reported the use of memorization except for students in Shanghai. Furthermore, we found the moderation effects of learning strategy use on mathematics performance depended on the types of motivation and educational systems. This study provides insights into the advantages of a three-step LCA approach in educational research.
Investigating the Impact of Information Technology, Absorptive Capacity, and Dynamic Capabilities on Firm Performance: An Empirical Study
Authors: Ma FeCheng , Khan Farhan , Khan Kashif Ullah , XiangYun Si
Published: November 2021

In today’s dynamic market environment, information technology (IT) enables firms to obtain knowledge they need to achieve superior performance. To this end, the present study explores the effects of IT, absorptive capacity (ACAP), and dynamic capabilities (DCs) on firm performance (FP) by employing empirical research design. In addition, the study focuses on the DCs perspective and ACAP as a firm knowledge-based view focusing on those firms where technology involved in either a particular unit of the firm or as a whole in operational processes. The data (total 241) was analyzed through AMOS, a mathematical analysis methodology focused on structural equation modeling (SEM). Moreover, through Sobel test we further verify the indirect impact of IT on FP.
A Comparative Performance Analysis of Sustainability Themed Indices in India: Markov Regime Switching Approach
Authors: Jasuja Deepmala , Prosad Jaya Mamta , Nautiyal Neeraj
Published: November 2021

Sustainability Indices serve as a benchmark for the companies screened for their superior performance on environmental, social and governance (ESG) parameters. This article intends to compare the overall and regime-specific financial performance of socially responsible indices of the National Stock Exchange, Nifty100 ESG and Nifty100 ESG Enhanced with Nifty50 (representing the market) from 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2020. Overall comparative performance analysis of these indices is conducted using risk-adjusted return measures and volatility has been captured through the TGARCH model. Further, time duration has been decomposed into regimes using Markov Regime Switching Model and the comparison of indices has been undertaken in both regimes. Our findings suggest that there is no significant difference between the return performance of sustainability indices and market benchmark index in single time duration and sustainability indices performing marginally better in both the regimes identified. This implies that socially responsible investments in India are providing reasonable returns to investors without comprising non-financial objectives. For corporates, it is a win–win situation to focus on ESG parameters to attract capital from investors and deliver better corporate financial performance and hence increasing the potential of growth of socially responsible investing in India.
The Meaning of the Empathetic Nurse–Patient Communication: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Babaii Atye , Mohammadi Eesa , Sadooghiasl Afsaneh
Published: November 2021

Nurse–patient communication is the foremost step in providing professional care. Nurses can use effective communication as a simple and powerful tool to create comfort, happiness, and vitality to reduce the patient's grief and suffering. This study aimed to explain the nurses’ perception of empathetic nurse–patient communication. This qualitative study was conducted with a content analysis method in 2020. Seventeen hospital nurses were recruited with maximum variation from the educational hospitals affiliated to Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran, and semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Data analysis was performed using Graneheim and Lundman approach. Nurses establish empathetic communication with patients through three main categories of: (1) having humanistic and unique behaviors with the patients; (2) providing a calm and happy environment for the patients; and (3) reducing the patients’ fear and consolation to them. These findings indicate empathetic communication that is appropriate to the conditions and needs of hospitalized patients. The three main categories were accomplished through 14 subcategories. The finding of this study can help to develop a training framework of empathetic nurse–patient communication and design instruments for measuring it.
A Cross-Cultural Analysis of the COVID-19 Pandemic's Impact on Antenatal Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors in Ghana and the United States
Authors: Norris Katharine G , Huang Phoebe A , Glantz J. Christopher , Kodam Ruth-Sally , Anto-Ocrah Martina
Published: November 2021

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacted healthcare systems worldwide. In this study, we conducted qualitative interviews with pregnant women in Ghana and the United States (US) to understand their antenatal care (ANC) experience. Adapting to the virtual nature of the pandemic, social media platforms Facebook and WhatsApp were used to recruit, consent, enroll, and interview women. Interviewers used a semi-structured guide with content validated by the US and Ghanaian collaborators. Audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed, coded using Dedoose (v8.0.35, Dedoose) and grounded theory, and analyzed for recurring themes. Between May and July 2020, 32 women (15 Ghanaians, 17 Americans), aged 25–40 years were interviewed. Major themes emerged: (i) apprehension about ANC services; (ii) disruptions to planned healthcare provider use; and (iii) changes in social support. Although the women strove to retain their ANC as planned, the pandemic universally caused several unanticipated changes. Given associations between higher maternal mortality and poor outcomes with inadequate ANC, specific policies and resources for telehealth education and intra- and postpartum support should be implemented to reduce disruptions to ANC imposed by COVID-19.