bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medial Meniscus Posterior Root Tears Lead to Changes in Joint Contact Mechanics at Low Flexion Angles During Simulated Gait
Authors: Brusalis Christopher M. , Chastain Kalle L. , Uppstrom Tyler J. , Steineman Brett D. , Gomoll Andreas H. , Maher Suzanne A. , Strickland Sabrina M.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Previous biomechanical studies evaluating medial meniscus posterior root tears (MMPRTs) are limited to low loads applied at specified loading angles, which cannot capture the effects of MMPRTs during the multidirectional forces and moments placed across the knee during physiological activities.

Purpose:

To quantify the effects of MMPRTs on knee joint contact mechanics during simulated gait.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Six human cadaveric knees were mounted on a robotic simulator programmed to apply dynamic forces, moments, and flexion angles to mimic level walking. Twelve cycles of multidirectional and dynamic standard gait input waveforms, normalized to specimen-specific body weight, were applied to the following conditions: (1) native, intact meniscus and (2) MMPRT. Peak contact stress, contact area, and the position of the weighted center of contact across the medial tibial plateau throughout the stance phase of gait were quantified using an electronic sensor placed across the medial tibial plateau. The difference between the intact state and MMPRT condition was calculated for each metric, and then the means and 95% CIs were computed.

Results:

Despite heterogeneity in knee contact forces, MMPRTs significantly increased peak contact stress by a mean of 2 MPa across 20% to 37% of the simulated gait cycle and significantly decreased the contact area by a mean of 200 mm2 across 16% to 60% of the simulated gait cycle in comparison with the native state. There was no significant difference in the position of the weighted center of contact, in either the anterior-posterior or medial-lateral directions, after MMPRT.

Conclusion:

MMPRTs led to both a significant increase in peak contact stress and decreased contact areas for a portion of the simulated gait cycle ranging from 20% to 37% of gait, during which time the femur was flexed <15°.

Clinical Relevance:

Contact mechanics are significantly affected after MMPRTs during early to midstance and at knee flexion angles lower than demonstrated previously. These data provide further biomechanical justification for treating MMPRTs.
Predictors of Postoperative Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Response Rates Among Patients With Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Weiss-Laxer Nomi S. , Pavlesen Sonja , Arevalo Alfonso , Jeffords Joycelyn , Haider Mohammad N. , Bisson Leslie J.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) contribute to evaluating and improving the quality of patient care. Patient outcomes after rotator cuff repair (RCR) have been researched; however, the relationship between PROM response rates and individual and health care correlates has not been thoroughly investigated.

Purpose:

To examine differences in individual and health care factors among patients who had undergone RCR based on their PROM response rates.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Shoulder-specific and general PROMs were solicited via email and text message of all patients who underwent RCR between 2016 and 2020. Three subgroups were classified: (1) complete responders completed all 1-year postoperative PROMs, (2) partial responders answered enough questions to produce ≥1 usable score, and (3) nonresponders did not respond to a single measure. Correlates were assessed using analysis of variance and chi-square tests. Adjusted multinomial logistic regression models identified predictors of 1-year PROM response.

Results:

Of 2195 patients included at the 1-year follow-up, 34% were complete responders; 11%, partial responders; and 55%, nonresponders. Patients had a mean age of 61.8 years, 63% were men, and 90% were White. Pre- and postoperative PROM scores were similar across responder groups. In stepwise selection, 1-year responses (complete or partial) were associated with older age, later year of surgery, White race, and having workers’ compensation insurance. The strongest predictor of PROM response was having workers’ compensation insurance.

Conclusion:

Patients with workers’ compensation insurance compared with other insurance types responded to PROMs at disproportionately higher rates. This could distort postoperative PROM scores in the population studied because there are known differences among patients with this insurance status.
Heterotopic Ossification and Platelet-Rich Plasma in Core Muscle Injuries: A Single-Institution Experience Over 6 Years
Authors: Poor Alexander E. , Zoga Adam C. , Warren Alec , Waters Leigh C. , Vilotti Louis , Bentz Garrison P. , Meyers William C.
Published: January 2024

Background:

A 2015 study of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for groin injuries in National Football League (NFL) players alerted the authors to the possibility that PRP is associated with heterotopic ossification (HO). The current study of athletes seen between 2014 and 2019 provides a more comprehensive analysis of that observation.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This report describes the early results of groin surgery for athletes who had experienced failed PRP therapy performed by different practitioners and with an assortment of PRP techniques. The primary goal of this cohort study was to determine short-term clinical outcomes after surgery of PRP-treated patients. It was hypothesized that previous PRP treatment would be associated with the presence of HO among patients with core muscle injuries (CMIs).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

All athletes seen at 1 institution and identified at their first visit as having received PRP for a CMI were followed and compared with patients with a CMI who had not previously received PRP. Although in many cases HO was observed on clinical examination or imaging, HO was identified intraoperatively in all surgical cases and confirmed pathologically. Successful surgery was defined as return to play at previously high levels of performance or greater as determined by the athletes’ own assessments. All patients who had received PRP were followed for ≥2 years.

Results:

Among 3642 patients with a new CMI seen between 2014 and 2019, 68 (1.9%) patients developed HO within the core muscles and/or adjacent soft tissues. Of the 68 patients, 60 (88.2%) were men, and the mean age was 34.5 years. Of the 68 patients, 62 (91.2%) were athletes and 44 (64.7%) had been treated previously with PRP. HO was observed in 24 (0.7%) patients without previous PRP treatment. Three athletes who received PRP retired early from sports because of HO and scar issues. In total, 22 of 28 (78.6%) NFL players who received PRP developed HO, compared with 0 (0%) of 28 randomly selected, age-, position-, and injury-matched NFL players. After surgical repair, 3-month success rates were 67.9% and 96.4%, respectively, in the PRP and non-PRP groups ( P = .006). By 6 months postoperatively, PRP-treated patients were back to similarly high success rates compared with the non-PRP cohort. Scar tissue issues played a prominent role in the relative delay in definitive success.

Conclusion:

The present, more comprehensive study confirms the previous preliminary analysis that treating CMIs with PRP may be associated with HO.
Preoperative Predictors of Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy Outcomes: The APM Index Score
Authors: Lowenstein Natalie A. , Chang Yuchiao , Mass Hanna , Mercurio Angela M. , Ukogu Chierika , Katz Jeffrey N. , Matzkin Elizabeth G.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Preoperative risk factors contributing to poor outcomes after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM) have not yet been consolidated and codified into an index scoring system used to predict APM success.

Purpose:

To create an index score using available preoperative factors to predict the likelihood of favorable postoperative outcomes after APM.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A consecutive cohort of patients undergoing primary APM were enrolled in this study. Patients completed pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) questionnaires that included the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12 Physical and Mental), and Marx Activity Rating Scale (MARS). Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to evaluate independent predictors of KOOS Pain, Symptoms, and Activities of Daily Living scores and achievement of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB). The authors assigned points to each variable proportional to its odds ratio, rounded to the nearest integer, to generate the index score.

Results:

In total, 468 patients (mean age, 49 years [SD, 10.4 years; range, 19-81 years]) were included in this study. In the univariate analysis, shorter symptom duration, lower Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade, lower preoperative KOOS Pain value, and lower VR-12 Physical score were associated with a higher likelihood of clinical improvement at 1 year. In the multivariable model for clinical improvement with MCID, symptom duration (<3 months: OR, 3.00 [95% CI, 1.45-6.19]; 3-6 months: OR, 2.03 [95% CI, 1.10-3.72], compared with >6 months), KL grade (grade 0: OR, 3.54 [95% CI, 1.66-7.54]; grade 1: OR, 3.04 [95% CI, 1.48-6.26]; grade 2: OR, 2.31 [95% CI, 1.02-5.27], compared with grade 3), and preoperative KOOS Pain value (score <45: OR, 3.00 [95% CI, 1.57-5.76]; score of 45-60: OR, 2.80 [95% CI, 1.47-5.35], compared with score >60) were independent significant predictors for clinical improvement. The scoring algorithm demonstrated that a higher total score predicted a higher likelihood of achieving the MCID: 0 = 40%, 1 = 68%, 2 = 80%, 3 = 89%, and 4 = 96%.

Conclusion:

Using this model, the authors developed an index score that, using preoperative factors, can help identify which patients will achieve clinical improvement after APM. Longer symptom duration and higher KL grade were associated with a decreased likelihood of clinical improvement as measured by KOOS Pain at 1 year postoperatively.
Distal Radius Allograft for Glenohumeral Instability: A Novel Osteochondral Allograft Reconstruction Option in the Setting of Glenoid Bone Loss
Authors: Khan Adam Z. , Fares Mohamad Y. , Abboud Joseph A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Distal tibial allograft (DTA) reconstruction for glenoid bone loss is nonanatomic, as it does not match the glenoid radius of curvature (ROC) in the anterior-posterior (AP) plane. The dorsal articular portion of the distal radius has not been previously described as an allograft reconstruction option for glenoid bone loss.

Purpose:

To evaluate distal radius fresh-frozen allograft (DRA) as a potential match for glenoid reconstruction.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Eighteen fresh-frozen human cadaveric specimens—including 6 shoulder, 6 wrist, and 6 tibia specimens—were used. The ROC and the graft length were measured in the superior-inferior (SI) plane. A 30% defect was created in all glenoid specimens, and both DTAs and DRAs were harvested to assess graft fit after fixation. Computed tomography analysis was used to assess bony ROC and bone mineral density (BMD).

Results:

The cadaveric specimens had a mean age of 77 years. The mean SI glenoid length was 39.7 mm compared with 36.8 mm for the DRA and 30 mm for the DTA. The ROC in the SI plane was 29 ± 5.3 mm for the glenoid, 37.8 ± 4.9 mm for the DRA, and 24 ± 3.7 mm for the DTA. In the AP plane, the ROC was 39.6 ± 6.6 mm for the glenoid, 30.4 ± 18.6 mm for the DRA, and 126.3 ± 9.5 mm for the DTA. On computed tomography analysis, the ROC in the SI plane was 30.4 ± 1.5 mm for the glenoid, 30.3 ± 5.6 mm for the DRA, and 24.5 ± 9.4 mm for the DTA. In the AP plane, the ROC was 30.8 ± 2 mm for the glenoid, 19.1 ± 2.3 mm for the DRA, and 46.7 ± 21.7 mm for the DTA. The BMD was 226.3 ± 79 Hounsfield units (HU) for the glenoid, 228.5 ± 94.7 HU for the DRA, 235 ± 96.2 HU for the coracoid process, and 235.1 ± 84.6 HU for the DTA.

Conclusion:

Compared with the DTA, the DRA had a greater mean graft length in the SI plane, providing utilization in cases of larger bony defects; the DRA has a more acute ROC in the AP plane (closer to that of the glenoid), providing a greater potential buttress to anterior humeral translation. Compared with currently utilized grafts, the DRA BMD was not significantly diminished. This study presents the DRA as a novel allograft reconstruction option in the setting of anterior glenoid bone loss; further biomechanical and clinical investigation is indicated.
Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee Associated With Mechanical Overload
Authors: van der Weiden Goran S. , van Cruchten Stijn , van Egmond Nienke , Mastbergen Simon C. , Husen Martin , Saris Daniël B.F. , Custers Roel J.H.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee is a rare but potentially incapacitating disorder in which subchondral bone detaches, leading to an osteochondral fragment that can become unstable and progress into a loose body. The exact cause is unknown, although several biological and mechanical factors have been described.

Purpose:

To provide insight into epidemiological data of a large cohort of patients affected by OCD of the knee and to identify potential factors contributing to the cause of this disorder.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 236 patients (259 knees) affected by OCD were included in our Knee Registry (2005-2022) and retrospectively analyzed. Patient characteristics were extracted from the medical records. Location and International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society grade (1-4) of OCD were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. If available, a full-leg standing radiograph was used to assess alignment. Additionally, a statistical scoring system for instability risk was created.

Results:

A total of 263 OCD lesions were identified in 259 knees, 66.2% on the medial femoral condyle (MFC), 26.6% on the lateral femoral condyle (LFC), 3.8% on the trochlea, 2.7% on the patella, and 0.8% on the lateral tibia plateau. Male patients made up 57.6% of the sample, which had a mean age of 21.8 years. A very high percentage of patients (77.1%; n = 182) practiced sports, of whom 67.6% (n = 123) were engaged in high-impact sports. The location of the OCD lesions and the leg alignment (n = 110) were significantly correlated: MFC lesions were associated with more varus than valgus alignment (47.5% vs 11.3%) and patients with LFC lesions had more valgus than varus alignment (46.7% vs 20.0%; P = .002). Based on age, smoking, sports activity, and preceding trauma, a multivariable scoring system (0-11 points) was created. An increased risk of lesion instability was associated with an increased score: 29.0% at 0 points and 97.0% at 11 points.

Conclusion:

This study provides detailed epidemiological data for 236 patients affected by OCD of the knee. Older age, smoking, inactivity, and preceding trauma were predictive for instability of OCD lesions. There was an association between OCD of the MFC and varus malalignment and between OCD of the LFC and valgus malalignment. This finding, in combination with the high percentage of patients practicing high-impact sports, suggests an important role for mechanical overload in the pathogenesis of OCD.
Role of Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis in Restraining Internal Tibial Rotation: In Vitro Biomechanical Assessment of Lateral Tissue Engagement
Authors: Ahsan Zahab S. , Berube Erin E. , Frondorf Brian J. , Bin Kim Ho , Marom Niv , Zayyad Zaid A. , Fraychineaud Thomas J. , Patel Ronak M. , Wickiewicz Thomas L. , Imhauser Carl W. , Pearle Andrew D. , Nawabi Danyal H.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The way in which force increases in the anterolateral tissues and the lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) tissue to resist internal rotation (IR) of the tibia after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in isolation and after LET augmentation, respectively, is not well understood.

Purpose:

(1) To compare in a cadaveric model how force increases (ie, engages) in the anterolateral tissues with IR of the tibia after isolated ACL reconstruction and in the LET tissue after augmentation of the ACL reconstruction with LET and (2) to determine whether IR of the tibia is related to engagement of the LET tissue.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

IR moments were applied to 9 human cadaveric knees at 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion using a robotic manipulator. Each knee was tested in 2 states: (1) after isolated ACL reconstruction with intact anterolateral tissues and (2) after LET was performed using a modified Lemaire technique with the LET tissue fixed at 60° of flexion under 44 N of tension. Resultant forces carried by the anterolateral tissues and the LET tissue were determined via superposition. The way force increased in these tissues was characterized via parameters of tissue engagement, namely in situ slack, in situ stiffness, and tissue force at peak applied IR moment, and then compared (α < .05). IR was related to parameters of engagement of the LET tissue via simple linear regression (α < .05).

Results:

The LET tissue exhibited less in situ slack than the anterolateral tissues at 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion ( P≤ .04) and greater in situ stiffness at 30° and 90° of flexion ( P≤ .043). The LET tissue carried greater force at the peak applied IR moment at 0° and 30° of flexion ( P≤ .01). IR was related to the in situ slack of the LET tissue ( R2≥ 0.88; P≤ .0003).

Conclusion:

LET increased restraint to IR of the tibia compared with the anterolateral tissue, particularly at 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion. IR of the tibia was positively associated with in situ slack of the LET tissue.

Clinical Relevance:

Fixing the LET at 60° of flexion still provided IR restraint in the more functionally relevant flexion angle of 30°. Surgeons should pay close attention to the angle of internal and/or external tibial rotation when fixing the LET tissue intraoperatively because this surgical parameter is related to in situ slack of the LET tissue and, therefore, the amount of IR of the tibia.
The Delayed Presentation of Achilles Tendon Ruptures Is Associated With Marked Alterations in the Gene Expression of COL1A1, MMPs, TIMPs, and IL-6
Authors: Nilsson Niklas , Alim M.D. Abdul , Dietrich-Zagonel Franciele , Concaro Sebastian , Brorsson Annelie , Nilsson Helander Katarina , Eliasson Pernilla
Published: January 2024

Background:

Both acute and chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are affected by alterations in the extracellular matrix during the healing process of the tendon. Yet, these alterations in gene expression patterns are not well characterized.

Purpose:

To characterize temporal and spatial differences in gene expression patterns after an Achilles tendon rupture and to evaluate if cells from chronic Achilles tendon ruptures have the same ability to form new tendon tissue (tendon constructs) as healthy tendon cells.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 35 patients with surgically treated Achilles tendon ruptures were included in the study and divided into 3 groups: acute (<4 weeks), short-term chronic (1-6 months), and long-term chronic (>6 months). Biopsy specimens were collected during surgical repair and were used to analyze the gene expression within the different groups and to compare mRNA levels in the proximal and distal tendon ends. A complementary in vitro experiment was performed to evaluate if cells from chronic Achilles tendon ruptures can form tendon constructs.

Results:

The mRNA levels for COL1A1 and COL3A1 were significantly higher in the short-term chronic group compared with the acute group ( P < .05). Both MMP-1 and MMP-13 had the highest mRNA levels in the acute group ( P < .01) compared with the long-term chronic group, while MMP-2 had the highest mRNA level in the short-term chronic group. Significant differences between the proximal and distal tendon ends were only detected for the monocyte and macrophage marker CD163 ( P < .05), which was more expressed proximally. Cells extracted from chronic Achilles tendon ruptures displayed a similar ability and effectiveness to form tendon constructs as healthy tendon cells.

Conclusion:

A high collagenase gene activity after an Achilles tendon rupture indicated possible rapid matrix degradation in the acute phase. Chronic ruptures appeared to initiate the healing process even before treatment, indicated by the higher expression of collagen in the short-term chronic group. Cells from chronic Achilles tendon ruptures also displayed an ability to form new tendon tissue in vitro.

Clinical Relevance:

The study shows a rapid increase in collagenase gene expression, which could lead to matrix degradation that continues for months after an Achilles tendon rupture.
Empowering Students to Thrive: The Role of CT and Self-Efficacy in Building Academic Resilience
Authors: Wu Ting-Ting , Silitonga Lusia Maryani , Dharmawan Budi , Murti Astrid Tiara
Published: January 2024

The relationship between computational thinking (CT) and academic self-efficacy for building students’ academic resilience—a trait crucial for problem-solving, peer relationships, and confidence development—was investigated. A mixed-methods approach was employed in a study involving 60 participants; half were given CT instruction and half were instructed traditionally. Quantitative data were analyzed using analysis of covariance and path analysis, while MAXQDA software was employed for qualitative interview data. The study found a positive correlation between CT instruction and academic self-efficacy with increased academic resilience, particularly in the experimental group, and identified key factors contributing to resilience. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of computational thinking (CT) and academic self-efficacy in enhancing academic performance, offering a new understanding of how these elements can be integrated into education to boost student resilience. It establishes a direct empirical link between CT instruction and increased academic self-efficacy, underscoring the value of specific teaching methodologies in fostering resilience. The findings are significant for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in developing strategies to enhance students’ academic and personal success, thereby promoting their overall well-being. Recognizing the importance of CT and self-efficacy paves the way for customized educational programs that effectively support and empower students to thrive.
Family Involvement in Elementary Reading Intervention: Compensatory Relations to Dosage and Tutor-Level Heterogeneity
Authors: Hall Garret J. , Parker David C. , Nelson Peter M. , Putzeys Sophia N.
Published: January 2024

We used triannual reading curriculum-based measurement of oral reading fluency data from 11,834 U.S. students in Grades 2 and 3 enrolled in an evidence-based Tier 2 reading intervention program (Reading Corps) to investigate the extent to which family involvement in the intervention might buffer against a negative effect of lower intervention dosage. The relation between family involvement in Reading Corps and growth in oral reading fluency was stronger when students spent fewer hours in tutoring, suggesting that family involvement in tiered reading intervention can compensate for receiving less intervention dosage. There was noticeable variation in this effect across tutors, suggestive of tutor-level heterogeneity of this relation. The relation between sending family engagement materials to families and the materials that are returned to tutors also substantially varied across tutors. We discuss findings in terms practical significance for school-based academic intervention systems. We highlight limitations and opportunities for future directions as well.
Omental coating attenuates implant-induced foreign body reaction in rats
Authors: Guan Haonan , Lu Xinyi , Zhang Di , Tang Jiajun , Dong Jiaoyun , Zhang Guoyou , Lian Jie , Lu Shuliang
Published: January 2024

The objective of this study is to clarify whether the omental coating can effectively attenuate foreign body reaction (FBR) induced by implanted materials. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with polydextran particle slurry intraperitoneally to activate the omentum. 7 days later, polyether polyurethane sponge discs were implanted subcutaneously on each side of the rat’s back as the foreign implants to induce FBR. The next day, omental transposition were performed. The disc on the left side of each rat’s back was wrapped with omental flap (omental group); the disc on the right side was untreated (control group). All discs were removed 21 days after implantation and assessed by determining the components of the fibrovascular tissue (angiogenesis, inflammation, foreign body giant cells (FBGCs) aggregation and fibrogenesis). In implants in omental group, micro vessel density (MVD), Hemoglobin (Hb) content and VEGF levels (pro-angiogenic cytokine) were increased when compared with implants from control group. Inflammatory parameters (IL-1β; macrophage accumulation-NAG activity; neutrophil accumulation- MPO levels) were decreased in implants after omental coating. Also, collagen deposition, fibrous capsule thickness, and FBGCs decreased in implants from omental group. However, intra-implant levels of TNF-α and TGF-β1 were not different after omental coating. Our findings showed for the first time that the omental coating around the implants attenuate the adverse FBR, it may be critical in developing new strategies to control FBR and improve the function and performance of the implanted materials.
Management in Times of Crisis: A Qualitative Exploration of the Great Resignation from a Social Exchange Perspective
Authors: Batiste Heidi
Published: January 2024

This study explores the driving forces of the Great Resignation in an effort to inform human resource management strategy in modern-day workplaces—particularly in times of crisis or unrest. This paper provides a summary of the state of the post-pandemic workforce through the lens of relevant management theories. Further, it presents a qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with participants who resigned from a job between April 2021 and March 2023. The interviews uncovered the experiences of participants, what led to their decision to quit and the motivators for selecting a new job. The analysis revealed five major themes including (1) a toxic work environment, (2) COVID-19 pandemic-specific effects, (3) burnout, (4) lacking work–life balance and (5) compensation. A major finding of this study was that there was not one primary reason for employees’ decision to resign. Rather, it was an apparent interaction of these themes that led to the decision. A thematic model was created to guide the direction of future research and to assist organizational leaders and practitioners with organizing and prioritizing human resource management interventions during times of crisis.
Social Live-Streaming Use and Well-Being: Examining Participation, Financial Commitment, Social Capital, and Psychological Well-Being on Twitch.tv
Authors: Wolff Grace H. , Shen Cuihua
Published: January 2024

This study examines how active participation, financial commitment, and passive participation in the leading social live-streaming service, Twitch.tv, relate to individuals’ psychological well-being. The three dimensions of social capital—structural, relational, and cognitive—as well as parasocial relationship are explored as mediators. Cross-sectional survey data from 396 respondents was analyzed by comparing two fully saturated structural equation models. Findings indicate actively participating in a favorite streamers’ Chat is positively associated with increased well-being. Structural social capital, or having more social interaction ties, positively mediates the relationship between active participation and well-being, as well as financial commitment and well-being. Greater cognitive social capital, or shared values and goals with a favorite streamer, is related to decreased well-being. Parasocial relationship does not significantly mediate the relationship between use and well-being. Our results demonstrate the importance of tangible social ties over the perceived relationships or identification with a favorite streamer.
Research on modeling method of non-axisymmetric endwall based on body-fitted coordinates
Authors: Wang Zhiguo , Wang Pei , Liu Jun , Du Qiang , Wang Pengfei , Xu Qingzong , Shen Xin , Wang Haohan
Published: January 2024

Due to the large bending of turbine blades, there is strong three-dimensional flow in cascade channel, the three-dimensional flow at the endwall of blades generates extremely complex heat transfer characteristics. The design concept of high heat load turbine blades, particularly comprehensive optimization of flow and heat transfer at the endwall, has gained increasing attention. In this paper, we have developed a three-dimensional endwall parameterized modeling platform based on Body-Fitting Coordinates and introduced a novel approach for streamwise direction and normal direction concerning endwall profile construction. The endwall modeling was optimized using Genetic Algorithm to obtain a modified one with low heat transfer level on the premise that the aerodynamic loss is not increased. The analysis indicates that the reduction of aerodynamic loss with the modified endwall is relatively marginal, whereas the heat transfer intensity on the endwall surface experiences a significant decrease. Additionally, employing an endwall model can effectively mitigate the lateral pressure gradient in the cascade channel, which exerts a pronounced influence on suppressing secondary vortex development in the cascade.
Orogenital and anal infection by Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, and other sexually transmitted infections in men who have sex with men in Lisbon
Authors: Minetti Corrado , Rocha Miguel , Duque Luís Miguel , Meireles Paula , Correia Cristina , Cordeiro Dora , João Inês , Manita Carla , Soeiro Sofia , Santos João Almeida , Matos Rita , Almeida Catarina , Martins Helena Cortes , Vinagre Elsa , Lopo Sílvia , Borrego Maria José
Published: January 2024

Background

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but more data on extragenital carriage are needed.

Aim

We assessed the genital and extragenital prevalence of bacterial and other STIs in MSM in a Lisbon sexual health clinic.

Methods

We screened oral, anal, and urine samples of MSM visiting the GAT-CheckpointLX clinic June 2017-December 2021 for Chlamydia trachomatis (including lymphogranuloma venereum, LGV), Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and U. parvum. Ano-oro-genital lesions were tested for LGV, Treponema pallidum, and Herpes Simplex Virus. Blood was tested for HIV and T. pallidum antibodies.

Results

N. gonorrhoeae was found in 16.6% of the MSM followed by C. trachomatis (13.2%), M. genitalium (10.3%) and T. vaginalis (0.2%). The most frequent occurrence was anorectal ( C. trachomatis, M. genitalium) and oral ( N. gonorrhoeae). We found high carriage of U. urealyticum (36.1%) and M. hominis (22.1%). LGV was detected in 21.8% of chlamydia-positive anorectal swabs. Syphilis was detected in 22.6% of tested MSM, while 13.8% had HIV. Gonorrhoea and chlamydia were significantly more prevalent in MSM with concomitant HIV or syphilis.

Conclusion

The substantial extragenital prevalence of bacterial STIs in MSM, and HIV and syphilis coinfections, suggest screening has value in identifying hidden carriage and in contributing for providing better care.
A qualitative study of facilitators of medication adherence in systemic lupus erythematosus: Perspectives from rheumatology providers/staff and patients
Authors: Herndon Shannon , Corneli Amy , Dombeck Carrie , Swezey Teresa , Clowse Megan EB , Rogers Jennifer L , Criscione-Schreiber Lisa G , Sadun Rebecca E , Doss Jayanth , Eudy Amanda M , Bosworth Hayden B , Sun Kai
Published: January 2024

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disproportionately affects patients from racial and ethnic minority groups. Medication adherence is lower among these patient populations, and nonadherence is associated with worse health outcomes. We aimed to identify factors that enable adherence to immunosuppressive medications among patients with SLE from racial and ethnic minority groups.

Methods

Using a qualitative descriptive study design, we conducted in-depth interviews with purposefully selected (1) patients with SLE from racial and ethnic minority groups who were taking immunosuppressants and (2) lupus providers and staff. We focused on adherence facilitators, asking patients to describe approaches supporting adherence and for overcoming common adherence challenges and providers and staff to describe actions they can take to foster patient adherence. We used applied thematic analysis and categorized themes using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior (COM-B) model.

Results

We interviewed 12 patients (4 adherent and 8 nonadherent based on medication possession ratio) and 12 providers and staff. Although each patient described a unique set of facilitators, patients most often described social support, physical well-being, reminders, and ability to acquire medications as facilitators. Providers also commonly mentioned reminders and easy medication access as facilitators as well as patient education/communication and empowerment.

Conclusion

Using an established behavioral change model, we categorized a breadth of adherence facilitators within each domain of the COM-B model while highlighting patients’ individual approaches. Our findings suggest that an optimal adherence intervention may require a multi-modal and individually tailored approach including components from each behavioral domain—ensuring medication access (Capability) and utilizing reminders and social support (Opportunity), while coupled with internal motivation through improved communication and empowerment (Motivation).
Enhancing Bilateral Relations and Regional Cooperation: Analysing the Feasibility and Implications of India–Myanmar Railway Connectivity
Authors: Roy Stabak , Mitra Saptarshi
Published: January 2024

The primary objective of this study is to assess the practicality and consequences of establishing railway connectivity between India and Myanmar. By exploring the possible impact of this initiative on the relationship between the two countries and regional collaboration, this study aims to shed light on its potential benefits and challenges. The railway network aims to enhance connectivity between the Northeastern states of India and Myanmar, providing a new trade route with Southeast Asia. The study was based on policy review, meta-data analysis, bibliometric literature review and case studies using geospatial techniques. The results indicate that the proposed railway connectivity has the potential to boost trade, tourism and investment and strengthen regional cooperation. However, significant challenges such as security concerns, financial viability and political stability need to be addressed to realise the potential of railway connectivity fully. The study concludes that strong political will, effective project management and public–private partnerships are crucial for the success of the India–Myanmar railway connectivity and its potential impact on bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
Do Female CEOs Promote Behavioral Consistency in Firm’s Nonmarket Strategy: The Moderating Effect of Board Gender Diversity
Authors: Al-Shammari Marwan , Dadanlar Hazel , Banerjee Soumendra Nath , Doty Harold
Published: January 2024

This study explores whether and under what conditions women CEOs engage in behavioral consistency when promoting CSR practices. Specifically, drawing from the social role and behavioral consistency theories, we argue that women’s CEO presence will positively affect CSR consistency. We use two categories to capture the firm’s consistency in CSR practices: inter-domain and temporal consistency. Inter-domain consistency indicates reliability in a firm’s conduct across its various stakeholder groups. Temporal consistency refers to the consistency of a firm’s behavior toward its stakeholders over time. Using 167 unique S&P 500 firms over the 2005-2013 sample period, we found that women CEOs maintain higher temporal and inter-domain consistency than men. Our results also show that women CEO-led firms with greater gender diversity on their boards exhibit higher temporal and inter-domain consistency levels. Our study advances our understanding of how women CEOs use their situational and positional power to improve such equity and consistency.
Transverse free vibration analysis of thin sectorial plates by the weak form quadrature element method
Authors: Liu He , Zhong Hongzhi
Published: January 2024

The weak form quadrature element method is applied to free vibration analysis of thin sectorial plates with arbitrary vertex angles and boundary conditions. To tackle the strong stress singularity around the vertex, analytical displacement descriptions are introduced into the inner sectorial subdomain, while the outer annular subdomain is modeled by a single weak form quadrature thin plate element. The continuity on the interface between the two subdomains is enforced afterwards. Eventually, a generalized eigenvalue formulation is established after introducing Hamilton’s principle. The first six non-dimensional frequency parameters for various vertex angles and boundary conditions are obtained and compared with available results. Several typical free vibration modes are plotted. The accuracy, convergence rate, and computational cost of the present formulation are discussed at length.
Embodied Imagination: Lakoff and Johnson’s Experientialist View of Conceptual Understanding
Authors: Clark Kevin M.
Published: January 2024

This paper reviews an embodied or experientialist view of conceptual understanding. It focuses on George Lakoff and Mark Johnson’s theory of embodied cognition and its framing of human conceptualization and reasoning in terms of embodied imagination. These ideas are summarized as ten basic claims: (a) objectivist assumptions are problematic; (b) many human categories have non-classical structure; (c) conceptual systems consist of cognitive models; (d) thinking utilizes frames, metonymies, and prototypes; (e) metaphor is prevalent and primarily conceptual; (f) image schemas structure our experiences; (g) the mind is embodied; (h) abstract thought is largely metaphorical; (i) truth is relative to embodied understanding; and (j) philosophy should be empirically responsible. Lakoff and Johnson’s theory of embodied cognition offers a view of conceptual understanding that is cognitively realistic (or empirically responsible), biologically plausible, and self-critical, while providing adequate theories of meaning and truth grounded in embodied experience.
Si(gh)ting the City: An Uber View of Calcutta
Authors: Gupta Neha
Published: January 2024

In this article, I take a socio-material approach to highlight the changes in the legibility of the built environment due to digital interfacing and the subsequent fragmentation of urban space. Using Uber as an example, I demonstrate how app-reliant mobility practices, reflexive of the changing mobility values in the city of Calcutta, manifest certain “temporal spaces”—quasi-virtual spaces of the online/digital-offline/material continuum—that imbricate the physicality of the city with the digital traces that Uber accrues about a particular location and the data about the rhythms of the individual users within that space. The investigation uses screenshots of Uber pick-up points to conceptualize legibility in the context of temporal spaces and how this changing legibility alters the kinaesthetic quality of Calcutta. Siting the argument in postrepresentationalist thought—one that does not assume an ontological distinction between representations and the referent—this article offers a posthumanist account of spatial performativity that considers the everyday entanglements of human actors, social practices, networked technologies, algorithms, and interfaces that render “legible” the urban space.
Mapping the Interior: The Consolidation of an Idea Across Disciplines, Movements, and Geographical Regions in the Early-to-Mid 20th Century
Authors: Daly Anna
Published: January 2024

The use of the word interior to refer to the inside of a house emerged in the 19th century and assumed some significance in modernist discourses. While the rise of digital media has shaped contemporary notions of space, these notions remain indebted to an idea of interiority that coalesced early last century. This discussion demonstrates the significance of the interior to modernists of different stripes and its consolidation as an idea across disciplines and geographical regions, despite the divergent attitudes it encompassed. Le Corbusier and Sigmund Freud viewed the interior and interiority as problematic, a view that found extreme expression in Richard Neutra’s domestic architecture. At the same time, visual artists such as Salvador Dali and the architects Alvar Aalto and Eileen Gray saw the interior as crucial to modern living, an approach revisited in the participatory art, architecture, and therapy that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s.
Extensions: The Embodiment, Spatiality, Materiality, and Sociality of Neighboring in Danish Public Housing
Authors: Jensen Tina Gudrun
Published: January 2024

Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork from a public housing area in Copenhagen, this article explores how dwelling, spatiality, materiality, sociality, and the senses interplay and inform different qualities of neighbor relations. Starting from the individual home space and moving to the space of the stair-case shared with other residents who live next door, below, or above, the article argues that neighbor relations constitute a practical embodied experience of the neighborhood. The article describes the condition of dwelling related to home as bestowing a certain embodied dimension to neighborhood relations. Furthermore, the article illustrates near-dwelling, or living near, as one distinctive context for neighbor relations, which involve material and sensorial aspects of neighboring. The article concludes that spatiality and materiality may condition yet not determine the nature of social relations among neighbors.
It’s my party and I’ll lie if I want to: Elite ideological obfuscation in post-authoritarian settings
Authors: Zucco Cesar , Power Timothy J
Published: January 2024

This paper examines the origins and evolution of the direita envergonhada (“embarrassed right”) phenomenon, a pattern of ideological obfuscation by right-of-center politicians that was originally identified and documented in post-authoritarian Brazil. Conservative politicians refused to identify themselves as right-wing, defining themselves instead as centrists and placing themselves ideologically to the left of their own political parties. We find that this phenomenon is not restricted to Brazil, but is widespread across Latin America’s Third Wave of democratization. We also find that politicians personally connected to the defunct authoritarian regime were more likely to engage in obfuscation and that, contrary to previous hypotheses, obfuscation has faded in recent times.
Bypassing digital literacy: Marginalized citizens’ tactics for participation and inclusion in digital societies
Authors: Smit Alexander , Swart Joëlle , Broersma Marcel
Published: January 2024

This article asks what digital literacy tactics low-literate Dutch adults employ to bypass their low-literacy to be able to participate in digital society, and what the consequences are for their socio-digital exclusion and inclusion. It contributes to a better understanding of the impact of digitalization for low-literate citizens, and the linguistic and digital barriers encountered in everyday life. Drawing upon participant observations and semi-structured interviews with low-literate adult citizens in four libraries, a community center, and a school for adult education ( N = 73), this article develops a taxonomy of five tactics which enables low-literate citizens to digitally participate despite their linguistic and digital barriers: (1) informal support structures, (2) formal support structures, (3) non-written communication, (4) translation software, and (5) optimal character recognition. We show how these tactics of appropriating the affordances of information and communications technologies (ICTs), and making use of social networks enable low-literate Dutch citizens to participate in socially situated manners, making use of social support structures and digital literacies developed in relation to “foreign” languages. Consequently, this study counters the stigma on such marginalized groups, who are often assumed to be unable or unwilling to participate, and presents them as not adhering to the dominant discourse of participatory culture. Hence, the added value of this study is threefold: (1) it centers the capabilities of low-literate citizens stemming from social capital and obfuscated linguistic potential, (2) it gives visibility toward more hidden everyday (digital) practices of marginalized subgroups with a larger distance toward the digital society, and (3) it foregrounds the lived experiences of the user and their (limited) use of ICTs, and how tactics are developed and practiced to bypass linguistic and/or digital barriers showing situated agency and problem-solving capacities. We argue that digital literacies should not be considered as a prerequisite for digital participation and inclusion, as our findings show that low-literate Dutch citizens are a highly diverse group that are capable of participating, despite their low (digital)-literacy. However, they do so in socially situated and non-written manners, in line with their digital and linguistic capabilities and barriers.
What is populism anyway? Newspaper representations of populism in Spain and Italy between emptiness and political partisanship
Authors: Berti Carlo , Capdevila Arantxa , Moragas-Fernández Carlota M.
Published: January 2024

The rise of populism in Europe has been accompanied by increasing use of the term in the media. This has been studied in the European press from the democratic corporatist or liberal media systems, but there is a lack of studies on southern Europe and the polarized pluralist media system. Using a content analysis of newspaper articles, we investigate the journalistic construction of populism in Spain and Italy, two countries belonging to the polarized pluralist media system. Results show that the notion of populism is often negatively connotated but remains quite vague and “empty”. Unlike previous results in northern and western European countries, political partisanship and parallelism play an important role in the use of populism in newspapers.