bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of a Sport Mega Event in the Right to Access Public Education: The Case of the Porto Alegre Communities Affected by the 2014 Brazil World Cup
Authors: Graeff Billy , Ghiggi Micheli V. , Knijnik Jorge
Published: May 2021

This article addresses key issues of sport mega events’ social and educational legacies. The rhetoric of the “legacy” of mega events has been imprinted in every bid presented to different countries and cities to influence their decision whether to host or not this type of event. Visible and also intangible effects are often cited as part of the “legacy” packaged to convince host citizens to adhere to the events. In the past few decades, several studies have been questioning the “legacy” rhetoric, presenting data demonstrating that despite the positive outcomes implied in the concept, these events often cause major impacts in the lives of host countries through several dimensions that cannot be painted with a “positive” tone. This study aims to analyze the educational legacies left by the 2014 FIFA World Cup (WC) in Porto Alegre, capital city of the Brazilian Southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul. We gathered data using participant observation methodology, surveys, and interviews with inhabitants of communities affected by the WC works. Our data reveal that the lives of public schools, students, and families in the region affected by the event were severely disrupted by the WC works without neither the Local Organizing Committee nor the local authorities offering adequate compensation or plan to alleviate these communities’ damages. We conclude by arguing that the WC has provoked a negative educational impact over communities that were already socially disadvantaged and most in need of good functioning of their schools.
Interpersonal Trauma in the Lives of Nurses and Perceptions of Nursing Work
Authors: Choi Kristen R. , Hughesdon Kathryn , Britton Laura , Sinko Laura , Wells Christine , Giordano Nicholas , Sarna Linda , Heilemann MarySue V.
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to explore associations between trauma experiences among nurses and nursing perceptions of risk for involuntary job loss and standing in society. This observational study used 2001 data from the Nurses’ Health Study II ( N = 53,323 female nurses). The outcome variables were nurses’ perceptions of their risk for involuntary job loss and their social standing in the United States and within their own community. The exposure variables were childhood and adulthood interpersonal trauma. Nurses reported high levels of emotional (60% childhood; 44% adulthood), physical (45% childhood, 23% adulthood), and sexual trauma (15% childhood, 11% adulthood). Emotional trauma was associated with perception of higher risk for involuntary job loss, but also higher perception of nurse societal standing. Nurses experience high rates of interpersonal trauma, which may influence how they perceive their profession.
Chinese Television in Africa
Authors: Jedlowski Alessandro
Published: May 2021

On the basis of the results of an ongoing research project on the activities of the Chinese media company StarTimes in Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, this paper analyses the fluid and fragmentary dimension of the engagements between Chinese media and African publics, while equally emphasizing the power dynamics that underlie them. Focusing on a variety of ethnographic sources, it argues for an approach to the study of Chinese media expansion in Africa able to take into account, simultaneously, the macro-political and macro-economic factors which condition the nature of China–Africa media interactions, the political intentions behind them (as, for example, the Chinese soft power policies and their translation into specific media contents), and the micro dimension of the practices and uses of the media made by the actors (producers and consumers of media) in the field.
Rethinking “Disinvestment”: Historical geographies of predatory property relations on Chicago’s South Side
Authors: Zaimi Rea
Published: May 2021

As vacancy in Rust Belt cities becomes a focal point of planning and policy efforts, Chicago planners and private institutions attribute it to “disinvestment” and seek to remove barriers to real estate investment in order to unlock the market’s purported ability to bring land to “productive use.” Drawing on findings from an analysis of nearly 10,000 postwar property records in the South Side Chicago neighborhood of Englewood, this article demonstrates that vacancy stems not from disinvestment but from predatory and hyperextractive investments in housing that derive economic feasibility and legal sanction from property’s historical articulation with race. I argue that racial regimes of ownership are endemic to the operation of real estate markets and function as central modalities for the appropriation of ground rent. As an analytical lens into the political economy of land, racial regimes of ownership expand urban geographers’ capacity to address the mechanisms that mobilize difference to accommodate capital’s circulation and, more broadly, to account for the racial logics that configure the terrain of contemporary land struggles.
The impact of exogenous nitric oxide during cardiopulmonary bypass for cardiac surgery
Authors: Loughlin Joseph Mc , Browne Lorraine , Hinchion John
Published: May 2021

Objectives:

Cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass frequently provokes a systemic inflammatory response syndrome. This can lead to the development of low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS). Both of these can affect morbidity and mortality. This study is a systematic review of the impact of gaseous nitric oxide (gNO), delivered via the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit during cardiac surgery, on post-operative outcomes. It aims to summarise the evidence available, to assess the effectiveness of gNO via the CPB circuit on outcomes, and highlight areas of further research needed to develop this hypothesis.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library was performed in May 2020. Only randomised control trials (RCTs) were considered.

Results:

Three studies were identified with a total of 274 patients. There was variation in the outcomes measures used across the studies. These studies demonstrate there is evidence that this intervention may contribute towards cardioprotection. Significant reductions in cardiac troponin I (cTnI) levels and lower vasoactive inotrope scores were seen in intervention groups. A high degree of heterogeneity between the studies exists. Meta-analysis of the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of ICU stay and length of hospital stay showed no significant differences.

Conclusion:

This systematic review explored the findings of three pilot RCTs. Overall the hypothesis that NO delivered via the CPB circuit can provide cardioprotection has been supported by this study. There remains a significant gap in the evidence, further high-quality research is required in both the adult and paediatric populations.
Systematic literature review and network Meta-analysis of sulodexide and other drugs in chronic venous disease
Authors: Pompilio Giuseppe , Nicolaides Andrew , Kakkos Stavros K , Integlia Davide
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the clinical efficacy of sulodexide, including a comparison with venoactive drugs (VAD) (micronized purified flavonoid fraction, MPFF; hydroxy-ethyl-rutosides, HR; calcium dobesilate;Ruscus extract combined with hesperidin methyl chalcone and vitamin C, Ruscus+HMC+VitC; horse chestnut seed extract, HCSE) and pentoxifylline in patients with chronic venous disease.

Methods

We performed a literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. Proportion of patients with complete venous ulcer healing was the primary outcome and lower leg volume, foot volume, ankle circumference and symptoms were the secondary outcomes. Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was perfomed with random effects models using only RCTs. A meta-analysis of observational studies was performed for sulodexide because no RCT could be included in NMA for symptoms or signs.

Results

Forty-five RCTs and eighteen observational studies were identified. Sulodexide was included only in a single NMA for the proportion of patients with complete ulcer healing and it showed to have the highest probability of being the best treatment (48%) compared with pentoxifylline (37%) and MPFF (16%). MPFF was the most effective treatment in reducing lower leg volume, CIVIQ-20 score and pain VAS scale while calcium dobesilate and Ruscus+HMC+VitC were the most effective in reducing foot volume and ankle circumference respectively. Meta-analyses of observational studies for sulodexide showed that it improves significantly the scoring of pain, feeling of swelling, heaviness and parasthesiae measured by Likert scales.

Conclusions

Sulodexide is at least as effective as pentoxifylline and more effective than MPFF in improving the rate of ulcer healing in patients with CVD. VADs are effective in improving venous symptoms and signs, as was also shown by sulodexide in the meta-analysis of observational studies. The relative effectiveness of sulodexide and VADs needs to be evaluated by an RCT in order to better inform clinical practice.
Parenteral nutrition with fish oil-based lipid emulsion reduces the risk of cholestasis in preterm infants
Authors: Wang Yi-Ling , Chen Lih-Ju , Tsao Lon-Yen , Chen Hsiao-Neng , Lee Cheng-Han , Hsiao Chien-Chou
Published: May 2021

Objective

Preterm infants receive long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) for gastrointestinal immaturity. This study aimed to determine if mixed lipid emulsions containing fish oil decrease the incidence of PN-associated cholestasis by reducing oxidative stress and providing an anti-inflammatory effect.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 399 very low birth weight premature infants (gestational age ≤32 weeks) between January 2009 and November 2017 at a single neonatal intensive care unit. Preterm infants received total PN with either mixed lipid emulsion including fish oil (SMOFlipid®, n = 195) or soybean oil-based lipid emulsion (Lipovenoes®, n = 204) for at least 7 days. We compared the outcomes of PN-associated cholestasis, comorbidities, and mortality between the groups.

Results

The incidence of PN-associated cholestasis was significantly lower in the SMOFlipid group than in the Lipovenoes group. The duration to full feeding days was significantly shorter in the SMOFlipid group compared with the Lipovenoes group. Relevant complications, such as severe retinopathy of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia, were also significantly reduced in the SMOFlipid group compared with the Lipovenoes group.

Conclusion

In premature infants, PN with fish oil-based lipid emulsions is associated with a lower incidence of PN-associated cholestasis compared with soybean oil-based lipid emulsions.
Dual threat of comorbidity of celiac disease and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ma Yimin , Zhuang Duanming , Qiao Zhenguo
Published: May 2021

Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic immune-mediated intestinal disease that is characterized by production of autoantibodies directed against the small intestine. The main clinical manifestations of CD are typically defined as those related to indigestion and malabsorption. These manifestations include unexplained diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, anemia, failure-to-thrive in children, and decreased bone density. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by heterogeneous clinical manifestations, which may also involve the gastrointestinal tract. Comorbidity of CD and SLE is rare, and the overlapping symptoms and nonspecific clinical presentation may pose a diagnostic challenge to clinicians. We report here a case of SLE with CD, which mainly manifested as recurrent diarrhea, uncorrectable electrolyte disorders, and severe malnutrition. Through review, we hope to further improve our understanding and diagnostic level of this combination of diseases.
Wedelolactone improves the renal injury induced by lipopolysaccharide in HK-2 cells by upregulation of protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 2
Authors: Zhi Deyuan , Zhang Meng , Lin Jin , Liu Pei , Wang Yajun , Duan Meili
Published: May 2021

Objective

To explore the effects of wedelolactone (WEL) on sepsis-induced renal injury in the human renal proximal tubular epithelial cell line HK-2.

Methods

HK-2 cells were stimulated by 1 µg/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to trigger renal injury in vitro. HK-2 cells were pretreated with or without WEL (0.1, 1 and 10 µM) before LPS stimulation. Protein and mRNA analyses were performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, Western blot analysis and quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The MTT assay and flow cytometry were used to measure cell viability and the rate of cell apoptosis. Protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 2 (PTPN2) knockdown was induced by the transection of HK-2 cells with short hairpin RNA.

Results

Cell viability was significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner by WEL in LPS-induced HK-2 cells. WEL also decreased the levels of four inflammatory cytokines and cell apoptosis in LPS-induced HK-2 cells. The level of PTPN2 was increased after WEL treatment. PTPN2 knockdown partly abolished the inhibitory effects of WEL on cell apoptosis, the levels of inflammatory cytokines and on p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor-kappaB signalling in LPS-induced HK-2 cells.

Conclusion

WEL improved renal injury by suppressing inflammation and cell apoptosis through upregulating PTPN2 in HK-2 cells. PTPN2 might be used as a potential therapeutic target for LPS-induced sepsis.
Current knowledge of primary prostatic extra-gastrointestinal stromal tumor: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Li Le , Hu Zhi quan , Yang Chun guang , Gan Jia hua , Tian Ji hua , Ke Chun jin , Zeng Xing
Published: May 2021

The patient was a 62-year-old man diagnosed as having prostatic extra-gastrointestinal stromal tumor (EGIST) who was treated with imatinib. No recurrence or metastasis was found after a 6-month follow-up. We identified 14 cases of prostatic primary EGIST in PubMed and summarized these cases with our case. The patients’ ages ranged from 31 to 78 years (average: 53.6 years), and most patients’ prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentrations were within normal limits (92.9%, 13/14). All patients underwent imaging examinations; prostatic masses measured 6 to 14.2 cm (mean: 9.43 cm), and imaging excluded secondary prostatic masses from the intestinal tract. By immunohistochemical staining, the tumors were positive for cluster of differentiation (CD)117 (71.4%, 10/14), DOG1 (100%, 7/7), and CD34 (100%, 14/14), and negative for smooth muscle actin (SMA) (71.4%, 10/14), desmin (100%, 11/11), and S100 (100%, 12/12). Treatment depended on the results of the gene mutation detection as well as the risk estimation according to tumor size and microscopic mitotic rates (>5 per 50 high-power fields: 60%, 6/10). Among the 12 patients with reported outcomes, nine achieved good results (no recurrence or metastasis), one achieved reduced mass volume, one experienced recurrence, and one died.
Effects of dexmedetomidine on neurocognitive disturbance after elective non-cardiac surgery in senile patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bi Xiaobo , Wei Jingxia , Zhang Xia
Published: May 2021

Objective

Senile patients often experience neurocognitive disturbance after non-cardiac surgery. Several clinical trials have investigated if the perioperative intravenous use of dexmedetomidine has a positive effect on the prevention of neurocognitive dysfunction, but the results have been inconsistent. We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine on neurocognitive disturbance after elective non-cardiac surgery in senile patients.

Methods

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were comprehensively searched for all randomized controlled trials published before 1 February 2020 that investigated the efficacy of dexmedetomidine in the prevention of postoperative delirium (POD) or postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

Results

Sixteen studies involving 4376 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with the control (i.e., saline), the perioperative intravenous use of dexmedetomidine significantly reduced the incidence of POD and POCD. However, patients in the dexmedetomidine group were more likely to develop bradycardia and hypotension during the administration of dexmedetomidine than patients in the control group. There were no differences between the two groups in the incidence of nausea and vomiting or mortality rate.

Conclusion

Dexmedetomidine has a positive effect on the prevention of neurocognitive disturbance in senile patients after elective non-cardiac surgery.
Overview of a Pilot Health-focused Reentry Program for Racial/Ethnic Minority Probationers ages 18 to 26 in Southern California
Authors: Ojeda Victoria D. , Berliant Emily , Parker Tamara , Lyles Maurice , Edwards Todd M. , Jimenez Cielo , Linke Sarah , Hiller-Venegas Sarah , Lister Zephon
Published: May 2021

There is a significant gap in reentry programming that is tailored to the needs of young adults ages 18 to 26 who are in a unique developmental life stage that involves ongoing maturity in their neurobiology, cognitive development, and social and financial transitions to adulthood and independence. This article describes the structure and approach of a 6-month health-focused reentry program designed for racial/ethnic minority young adult (YA) probationers in Southern California. The UCSD RELINK program includes service navigation and an optional psychoeducation health coaching program to build health literacy, problem-solving, and executive functioning skills relevant across multiple life domains. We describe participant characteristics and service needs at intake. Between 2017 and 2019, 122 YA probationers ages 18 to 26 responded to interviewer-administered baseline surveys. Participants needed basic services including housing, nutrition assistance, employment, and educational/vocational training. Depression and anxiety symptoms, Adverse Childhood Events, trauma, and unmet physical and mental health care needs were pervasive. Given the dearth of research on reentry programming for YA, this article documents the approaches taken in this multi-pronged health-focused reentry program to ensure that the program was tailored to YA reentrants’ comprehensive needs. These data serve to concretely illustrate the range of needs and how YA reentrants view their own health and social needs in the context of multiple competing demands; such data may be useful for program planners and policymakers seeking to advance service delivery for YA minority reentrants.
Efficacy of erenumab in chronic migraine patients with and without ictal allodynia
Authors: Lipton Richard B , Burstein Rami , Buse Dawn C , Dodick David W , Koukakis Reija , Klatt Jan , Cheng Sunfa , Chou Denise E
Published: May 2021

Background

Ictal cutaneous allodynia, common in chronic migraine, is associated with reduced responses to acute treatment with triptans. Allodynia’s impact on the efficacy of newer preventive treatments such as erenumab is unknown.

Methods

Post-hoc subgroup analysis of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled 12-week study of erenumab in chronic migraine, contrasting those with no allodynia with those with moderate-severe allodynia assessed with the Allodynia Symptom Checklist-12, was undertaken.

Results

Of 648 randomized individuals with baseline Allodynia Symptom Checklist-12 scores, 386 (59.6%) had no allodynia and 153 (23.6%) had moderate-to-severe allodynia. Mean (standard deviation) baseline monthly migraine days were 17.6 (4.8) and 18.9 (4.3), respectively. Compared to placebo, the erenumab group had greater reductions in monthly migraine days and monthly acute migraine-specific medication days in both no allodynia and allodynia subgroups. Mean (95% confidence interval) treatment differences in change from baseline for monthly migraine days at week 12 were −2.5 (−3.7, −1.4) in the no allodynia subgroup and −3.3 (−5.3, −1.3) in the moderate-severe allodynia subgroup. Change in acute migraine-specific medication days were −3.3 (−4.3, −2.3) and −2.5 (−4.3, −0.8), respectively.

Conclusions

Erenumab’s efficacy in reducing monthly migraine days and acute migraine-specific medication days in chronic migraine was not impacted by the presence of moderate-severe ictal allodynia. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02066415
Potential Benefits of Animal-Detecting Automatic Emergency Braking Systems Based on U.S. Driving Data
Authors: Decker Jeremy A. , Haus Samantha H. , Sherony Rini , Gabler Hampton C.
Published: May 2021

In 2015, there were 319,195 police reported vehicle-animal crashes, resulting in 275 vehicle occupant fatalities. Animal-detecting automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems are a promising active safety measure which could potentially avoid or mitigate many of these crashes by warning the driver, utilizing automatic braking, or both. The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize a target population of vehicle-animal crashes applicable to AEB systems and to analyze the potential benefits of an animal-detecting AEB system. The study was based on two nationally representative databases, Fatality Analysis Reporting System and the National Automotive Sampling System’s General Estimates System, and a naturalistic driving study, SHRP 2. The target population was restricted to vehicle-animal crashes that were forward impacts or road departures and involved cars and light trucks, with no loss of control. Crash characteristics which may influence the performance of AEB such as lighting, weather, pre-crash movement, relation to junction, and first and worst harmful events, were analyzed. The study found that the major influences on the effectiveness of animal AEB systems were: weather, lighting, pre-crash movements, and the crash location. Six potential target populations were used to analyze the potential effectiveness of an animal AEB system, with effectiveness ranging between 21.6% and 97% of police reported crashes and between 4.1% and 50.8% of fatal vehicle-animal crashes. An AEB system’s ability to function in low light and poor weather conditions may enable it to avoid a substantially higher proportion of crashes.
Systematic Video Analysis of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Professional Female Soccer Players
Authors: Lucarno Simona , Zago Matteo , Buckthorpe Matthew , Grassi Alberto , Tosarelli Filippo , Smith Rebecca , Della Villa Francesco
Published: May 2021

Background:

Female soccer players are particularly susceptible to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, accounting for 16% to 43% of the injury burden during the season. Despite the advancements in injury prevention programs, the rate of ACL injuries continues to rise.

Purpose:

To provide a comprehensive description of the mechanisms, situational pattern, and biomechanics of ACL injuries in women’s soccer.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We identified 57 consecutive ACL injuries that occurred in matches of 6 top female leagues across 3 seasons (2017-2020). A total of 35 (61%) injury videos were analyzed for the mechanism and situational pattern, while biomechanical analysis was possible in 29 cases. Three independent reviewers evaluated each video. The distribution of ACL injuries according to month, timing within the match, and field location at the time of injury was also reported.

Results:

In the 35 injury videos, there were 19 (54%) noncontact injuries, 12 (34%) indirect contact injuries, and 4 (11%) direct contact injuries. We identified 3 main situations in players who suffered a noncontact/indirect contact injury: (1) pressing and tackling (n = 18), (2) regaining balance after kicking (n = 7), and (3) being tackled (n = 4). Biomechanical analysis indicated multiplanar mechanisms with frequent knee valgus loading (88%). Additionally, 64% of injuries occurred in the first half of matches and most frequently within the first 30 minutes.

Conclusion:

Female athletes showed remarkable similarities with elite male players in terms of the ACL mechanism and situational pattern of injury, and 88% of injuries involved no direct contact to the knee, with noncontact injuries being highly prevalent. Injuries occurred during 3 main situations, with accompanying alterations in multiplanar biomechanics. Interventions aimed at reducing ACL injuries in women’s soccer should consider high-intensity defensive play at the beginning of a match. Instruction in the 3 main situations should be applied alongside appropriate neuromuscular training interventions.
The Indian Invasion of Alexander and the Emergence of Hybrid Cultures
Authors: Wickramasinghe Chandima S. M.
Published: May 2021

Alexander the Great usurped the Achaemenid Empire in 331 bc, captured Swat and Punjab in 327 bc, and subdued the region to the west of the Indus and fought with Porus at the Hydaspes in 326 bc. But he was forced to return home when the army refused to proceed. Some of his soldiers remained in India and its periphery while some joined Alexander in his homeward journey. When Alexander died in 323 bc his successors ( diodochoi) fought to divide the empire among themselves and established separate kingdoms.

Though Alexander the Great and related matters were well expounded by scholars the hybrid communities that emerged or revived as a result of Alexander’s Indian invasions have attracted less or no attention. Accordingly, the present study intends to examine contribution of Alexander’s Indian invasion to the emergence of Greco-Indian hybrid communities in India and how Hellenic or Greek cultural features blended with the Indian culture through numismatic, epigraphic, architectural and any other archaeological evidence. This will also enable us to observe the hybridity that resulted from Alexander’s Indian invasion to understand the reception the Greeks received from the locals and the survival strategies of Greeks in these remote lands.
Urology practice during the COVID-19 vaccination campaign
Authors: Ficarra Vincenzo , Novara Giacomo , Giannarini Gianluca , De Nunzio Cosimo , Abrate Alberto , Bartoletti Riccardo , Crestani Alessandro , Esperto Francesco , Galfano Antonio , Gregori Andrea , Liguori Giovanni , Pavan Nicola , Simonato Alchiede , Trombetta Carlo , Tubaro Andrea , Porpiglia Francesco , Scarpa Roberto Mario , Mirone Vincenzo
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

The current scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic is significantly different from that of the first, emergency phase. Several countries in the world are experiencing a second, or even a third, wave of contagion, while awaiting the effects of mass vaccination campaigns. The aim of this report was to provide an update of previously released recommendations on prioritization and restructuring of urological activities.

Methods:

A large group of Italian urologists directly involved in the reorganization of their urological wards during the first and second phase of the pandemic agreed on a set of updated recommendations for current urology practice.

Results:

The updated recommendations included strategies for the prioritization of both surgical and outpatient activities, implementation of perioperative pathways for patients scheduled for elective surgery, management of urological conditions in infected patients. Future scenarios with possible implementation of telehealth and reshaping of clinical practice following the effects of vaccination are also discussed.

Conclusion:

The present update may be a valid tool to be used in the clinical practice, may provide useful recommendations for national and international urological societies, and may be a cornerstone for further discussion on the topic, also considering further evolution of the pandemic after the recently initiated mass vaccination campaigns.
Competing challenges for immigrant seniors: Social isolation and the pandemic
Authors: Johnson Shanthi , Bacsu Juanita , McIntosh Tom , Jeffery Bonnie , Novik Nuelle
Published: May 2021

The pandemic has exposed and amplified complex and complicated health and societal challenges while offering immense opportunities to transform societies to improve health for all. Social isolation is a challenging and persistent issue experienced by many older adults, especially among immigrant and refugee seniors. Unique risk factors such as racism, discrimination, language barriers, weak social networks, and separation from friends and family predispose immigrant and refugee seniors to a higher risk of social isolation. The pandemic has magnified the unique risks and has highlighted the differential health and economic impacts. This article examines social isolation among immigrant and refugee seniors in Canada by focusing on the policy context, available programs and services to reduce social isolation, and the conceptualization and measurement considerations for advancing research to address social isolation among this growing population. Drawing on specific examples, we discuss immigration, aging, and social isolation within the context of Canada. While our article focuses on Canada as a case study, our discussion has relevancy and implications for other high-income countries with aging immigrant and refugee populations. In moving forward, we argue that a more complete and targeted understanding of social isolation is essential to informing program and policy development to support immigrant and refugee seniors in Canada and beyond. The transformation needed in our societies to create health for all requires strong equity and determinants of health perspective and a systems approach beyond health to ensure lasting change.
Male Victims at a Dutch Sexual Assault Center: A Comparison to Female Victims inCharacteristics and Service Use
Authors: Covers Milou L. V. , Teeuwen Janna , Bicanic Iva A. E.
Published: May 2021

Recently, there has been an increase in referrals of male victims of sexual assault to interdisciplinary sexual assault centers (SACs). Still, there is limited research on the characteristics of men who refer or are referred to SACs and the services they need. To facilitate the medical, forensic, and psychological treatment in SACs, a better understanding of male victims is indispensable.

The first aim of the study was to analyze the victim and assault characteristics of male victims at a Dutch SAC, and to compare them to those of female victims. The second aim was to analyze and compare SAC service use between male and female victims.

The victim characteristics, assault characteristics, and service use of 34 male victims and 633 female victims were collected in a Dutch SAC. T-tests and chi-square tests were used to analyze differences between male and female victims.

No differences between males and females in victim or assault characteristics were found. Most victims received medical and psychological care, with no differences between male and female victims. Female victims were more likely to have contact with the police, but no differences in reporting or forensic medical examinations between males and females were found.

These findings indicate that SACs can and do provide equal services to male and female victims, and that the current services are suitable for male victims as well. However, a focus on educating and advising male victims about police involvement is advisable.
Women’s Response Performance in Sexually Risky Situations: Associations With Disinhibited Sex-Related Alcohol Expectancies
Authors: Vitek Kristen N. , Yeater Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2021

This study evaluated the effects of sexual victimization history, alcohol-related problems, psychological distress, and disinhibited sex-related alcohol expectancies on the effectiveness of women’s response performance in hypothetical social situations depicting risk for sexual victimization. Two hundred and forty-five undergraduate women first listened to audiotaped descriptions of the hypothetical social situations and imagined that they were the woman depicted in each scenario. They then were given a response to each situation deemed in prior work by experts in the sexual victimization research area to be effective at reducing risk for sexual victimization and asked to provide each response verbally while being videotaped. Participants then completed measures assessing prior victimization history, alcohol-related problems, psychological distress, and disinhibited sex-related alcohol expectancies. Experts in the sexual violence research area rated participants’ responses with respect to how effective each response was in decreasing their risk for having an unwanted sexual experience, defined as an experience in which the woman may be verbally or physically coerced into having a sexual contact of any kind with a man. Structural equation modeling analyses revealed that disinhibited sex-related alcohol expectancies were associated positively with women’s response performance, indicating that women who endorsed greater disinhibited sex-related alcohol expectancies provided more effective responses to risky hypothetical situations. Findings suggest possible interventions aimed at reducing women’s risk of sexual victimization.
Understanding the Effects of Individual and State-Level Factors on American Public Response to COVID-19
Authors: Hao Feng , Shao Wanyun
Published: May 2021

Purpose:

To examine multilevel predictors on American public response to COVID-19.

Design:

Multilevel study.

Setting:

A national survey was conducted by Qualtrics from August 24 to September 11, 2020. The state-level variables were constructed on data from multiple sources.

Subjects:

2,440 respondents 18 years and older from all 50 states and D.C.

Measures:

The outcome variable is the public response to COVID-19 measured by threat perception, behavioral adjustment, and policy support. The predictors include individual-level sociodemographic factors and state-level indicators about public health conditions, political context, and economic recovery.

Analysis:

Multilevel structural equation modeling is used for statistical estimation.

Results:

People from states with more COVID-19 cases (β = 0.020, p < 0.1), mandatory face mask policies (β = 0.069, p < 0.05), and liberal governments (β = 0.002, p < 0.05) are more likely to respond while people from states whose economies have recovered closer to the pre-pandemic level are less likely to do so (β = −0.005, p < 0.05). Regarding individual-level predictors, older people (β = 0.005, p < 0.001) and people with better education (β = 0.029, p < 0.01), leaning toward the Democrat Party (β = 0.066, p < 0.001) and liberal political ideology (β = 0.094, p < 0.001), and have stronger generalized trust (β = 0.033, p < 0.001) are more likely to respond than their counterparts.

Conclusion:

Differences in the public response to the pandemic stem from variations in individual characteristics and contextual factors of states where people live. These findings contribute to the rapidly growing literature and have implications for public health policies.
Correlated personality change across time and age
Authors: Olaru Gabriel , Allemand Mathias
Published: May 2021

The goal of this study was to examine differential and correlated change in personality across the adult lifespan. Studying differential and correlated change can help understand whether intraindividual trait change trajectories deviate from the norm and how these trajectories are coupled with each other. We used data from two large longitudinal panel studies from the United States that covered a total age range of 20 to 95 years on the first measurement occasion. We used correlated factor models and bivariate latent change score models to examine the rank-order stability and correlations between change across three measurement waves covering 18 years ( N = 3250) and four measurement waves covering 12 years ( N = 4145). We examined the moderation effects of continuous age on these model parameters using local structural equation modeling. The results suggest that the test–retest correlations decrease with increasing time between measurements but are unaffected by participants’ age. We found that change processes in Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness were strongly related, particularly in late adulthood. Correlated change patterns were highly stable across time intervals and similar to the initial cross-sectional Big Five correlations. We discuss potential mechanisms and implications for personality development research.
The Use of Intravenous Lidocaine in the Setting of Chronic Dofetilide Overdose: A Case Report
Authors: Zhu Eric , Gabriele Michael , Nguyen May Thuy
Published: May 2021

Managing the risks and consequences of long QT syndrome can be challenging. Multiple factors contribute to the prolongation of the heart-rate corrected QT (QTc) interval including many drug-drug and drug-disease state interactions. Current literature is often focused on avoiding dysrhythmias with limited guidance on acute management strategies. Here we describe a case of QTc prolongation to 616 msec (Bazett’s formula) in the setting of chronic dofetilide overdose due to a possible prescription error. Our case was complicated by alcohol withdrawal and electrolyte disturbances that progressed to patient cardiac arrest in the emergency department. Dofetilide overdose was identified through pharmacist-initiated medication reconciliation and lidocaine was recommended as an alternative to amiodarone during advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). This case highlights the importance of reviewing outpatient medication records as well as avoiding drug-drug interactions during ACLS. Due to the potential for additive QTc prolongation, we recommend using lidocaine as the preferred antiarrhythmic in ACLS algorithms where drug induced QTc prolongation is suspected.
Benefit-Based Revenue Streams and Financial Health: The Case of Arts and Cultural Nonprofits
Authors: Liu Qiaozhen , Kim Mirae
Published: May 2021

A large number of empirical studies have discussed the revenue diversification strategy for nonprofits, but little attention has been paid to the components of revenue portfolios, even though each revenue source flows into a nonprofit with its own characteristics. Drawing on Young’s benefits theory, this study tests the proposition that a nonprofit would be stronger financially if its income portfolio reflected the mix of benefits it provides. We find evidence that the benefit-based revenue strategy is associated with better financial outcomes using the data set from DataArts (2008–2016). Yet, this relationship is not linear, and the positive relationship is seen only when the share of benefit-based revenues is above a certain threshold. A detailed examination reveals that the benefit-based revenue strategy should be employed judiciously, depending on each organization’s own capacity. We discuss the ways nonprofits can employ benefit-based financing while diversifying revenue streams.
Serving the Vulnerable While Being Vulnerable: Organizing Resilience in a Social Welfare Sector
Authors: Kim Minkyung , Kwestel Melanie , Youn Hyunsook , Quow Justine , Doerfel Marya L.
Published: May 2021

The interplay between formal organizing structures and the informal social networks of employees and organizations furthers the resilience of nonprofit organizations that serve the community. This case study draws on qualitative multi-pronged data collected in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey from two faith networks of social welfare organizations serving the vulnerable in Houston, Texas. Results show that hybrid organizing of formal structures and informal networks contributes to organizational and community resilience. By examining both forms of organizing, this article shows how formal structures offer foundational support to the more informal and nimble social networks across the interorganizational partnerships that support the community. As such, this study extends the process orientation toward resilience by documenting how individuals, organizations, and networks expand organizational internal capacities through disaster relief efforts enacted across levels (employee–organization–community).
Enhancing dielectric and mechanical properties of poly(arylene ether nitrile) based composites by introducing low content “core-shell” like structured MXene&PDA@ BaTiO3
Authors: Zhang Weixi , Kai Yuan , Lin Jian , Huang Yumin , Liu Xiaobo
Published: May 2021

Polyarylene ether nitrile (PEN) based composites combined MXene, Polydopamine (PDA) and barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) with “core-shell”-like structure were developed successfully in this work, and then incorporating into the PEN matrix to form the PEN/MXene&PDA@BT nanocomposite films through the solution casting method. The novel MXene&PDA@BT nanoparticles were characterized by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Then the structure and properties of the obtained PEN/MXene&PDA@BT nanocomposites are studied in detail. The results show that the modification of PDA improved the dispersibility of MXene nanosheets and BT nanoparticles in the PEN matrix, resulting in the enhancement of mechanical and dielectric properties. The research results reveal that when the content of MXene&PDA@BT is 1%, the tensile strength and modulus reached 114.15 MPa and 3015.74 MPa, respectively. Most important, the PEN based nanocomposites exhibit the outstanding frequency in dependent dielectric properties, including high dielectric constant (5.08 at 1 kHz) and low dielectric loss (0.0178 at 1 kHz). These results indicate that the PEN/MXene&PDA@BT composite films are greatly significant for using as the constructing high performance dielectric materials.
Numerical analyses of the sound transmission at low frequencies of a calibrated domestic wooden window
Authors: Soussi Chaima , Aucejo Mathieu , Larbi Walid , Deü Jean-François
Published: May 2021

This work focuses on the numerical prediction of the sound transmission of wooden windows in the low frequency range. In this context, the finite element method is used to solve the multiphysics problem. This choice is justified by the fact that this approach is suitable for the resolution of fluid-structure interaction problems in low frequencies, due in particular to its flexibility in taking into account the coupling between domains and the geometrical and material complexities of the structures. To reach the desired objective, experimental modal analyses of the main components of a window, and then of a complete one, are performed in order to calibrate the numerical models. Then, a configuration that combines free-fields on both sides of the structure is employed to evaluate the intrinsic acoustic response of the window. The numerical results for a symmetric and an asymmetric glazing are compared to experimental ones to evaluate the efficiency and validity of the developed models.
A review on phase prediction in high entropy alloys
Authors: Soni Vinay Kumar , Sanyal S , Rao K Raja , Sinha Sudip K
Published: May 2021

The formation of single phase solid solution in High Entropy Alloys (HEAs) is essential for the properties of the alloys therefore, numerous approach were proposed by many researchers to predict the stability of single phase solid solution in High Entropy Alloy. The present review examines some of the recent developments while using computational intelligence techniques such as parametric approach, CALPHAD, Machine Learning etc. for prediction of various phase formation in multicomponent high entropy alloys. A detail study of this data-driven approaches pertaining to the understanding of structural and phase formation behaviour of a new class of compositionally complex alloys is done in the present investigation. The advantages and drawbacks of the various computational are also discussed. Finally, this review aims at understanding several computational modeling tools complying the thermodynamic criteria for phase formation of novel HEAs which could possibly deliver superior mechanical properties keeping an aim at advanced engineering applications.
A 6-DOF micro-vibration isolation platform based on the quasi-zero-stiffness isolator
Authors: Tang Jie , Yang Yang , Li Yinghui , Cao Dengqing
Published: May 2021

Micro-vibrations generated by rotating machinery could influence the working performance of the precise instruments equipped in industrial facilities, aircraft, ships, etc. Isolation systems are thus essential for preventing the high-sensitive instruments from being disturbed. In this work, a 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) micro-vibration isolation platform is proposed based on the quasi-zero-stiffness (QZS) isolator. The structure of the isolation platform is a conventional Stewart mechanism equipped with the QZS isolators in each leg. To analyze the stiffness of the leg, the static analysis is carried out. Afterwards, the stiffness of the platform in six directions are also discussed. Moreover, the dynamical equations of the isolation platform are formulated by the Lagrange Equation. Finally, the dynamic response of the proposed model is investigated and compared with the linear case whose stiffness of the leg is linear. The results show that the newly designed QZS platform in this work has a good isolation performance, which can attenuate the external vibrations significantly within a broad frequency band. Parametric analysis shows that the structure parameters, damping and excitation amplitude have a great influence on the isolation performance of the QZS platform. Delightfully, the result of indicates that, (a) the newly designed QZS platform is able to provide an excellent isolation performance in all the six DOFs, which advances the dynamic study of multi-dimensional QZS vibration isolation; (b) The multi-dimensional vibration isolation platform is innovatively designed using geometric nonlinear technology, there is no influence of the magnetic sources to the precision instruments when compared with the previous designs; (c) the regulation mechanism of the structure parameters of the QZS isolation platform on the dynamic transmission characteristics of the system is revealed, which indicates that the platform is particularly suitable for micro-vibration isolation whose vibration magnitude and frequency are quite low.
Hybrid adaptive tracking control method for mobile manipulator robot based on Proportional–Integral–Derivative technique
Authors: Mai Thanglong
Published: May 2021

In this research, an adaptive tracking control method for the nonholonomic robot system is addressed based on the hybrid Proportional–Integral–Derivative (PID) technique. The proposed hybrid PID scheme first applies the merits of the traditional PID method, with the online self-learning capability for the PID – gains, to force tracking errors to zero in the presence of uncertainties. Then, in order to improve the tracking performance, an adaptive Fuzzy Neural Networks (FNN) approximator and an adaptive robust controller type-compensator are utilized to relax the uncertainties problems of the robot control system. Moreover, the nonholonomic constraint force stability of the mobile manipulator robot is also considered by an adaptive control scheme. The design of online updating laws for the proposed controllers and FNN approximator are designed by applying the Lyapunov stability theorem. Thus, besides the improvement for tracking control performance, the stability of the proposed control system is also maintained. The effectiveness, robustness and adaptability of the proposed control strategy are verified by comparative numerical simulation results.