bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Normal Serum Uric Acid Level and Cardiovascular Disease in People Without Risk Factors for Cardiac Diseases in China
Authors: Tian Xue , Wang Penglian , Chen Shuohua , Zhang Yijun , Zhang Xiaoli , Xu Qin , Luo Yanxia , Wu Shouling , Wang Anxin
Published: May 2023

Background

Healthy individuals with normal level of serum uric acid (SUA) may not be truly at the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to assess the association of SUA levels with CVD and its subtypes in people without CVD risk factors and determine a suitable target of SUA to prevent CVD.

Methods and Results

We enrolled 25 284 participants who were free of CVD, absent of CVD risk factors, and with an SUA level between 180 and 359 μmol/L (3–6 mg/dL) at baseline from the Kailuan study. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to calculated adjusted hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI for the risk of CVD and its subtypes. During a median follow‐up of 12.97 years (interquartile range, 12.68–13.16 years), we identified 1007 cases of CVD. There was an increase in the risk of incident CVD with increasing SUA levels (
P
trend
=0.0011). Compared with participants with SUA levels of 180 to 239 μmol/L (3–4 mg/dL), the HR of CVD was 1.12 (95% CI, 0.96–1.31) and 1.28 (95% CI, 1.08–1.52) for SUA levels of 240 to 299 μmol/L (4–5 mg/dL) and 300 to 359 μmol/L (5–6 mg/dL), respectively. A multivariable‐adjusted spline regression model showed a J‐shaped association between SUA and the risk of CVD. Similar results were observed for stroke and myocardial infarction.

Conclusions

The risk of incident CVD increased with elevating SUA levels among individuals without hyperuricemia or other traditional CVD risk factors. These findings highlighted the importance of primordial prevention for SUA level increase along with other traditional CVD risk factors.
The Effect of Self-Controlling Difficulty Levels in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Yuviler-Gavish Nirit , Ozery Ezra , Tarazi Ezri
Published: May 2023

In the current study we examine whether, in a virtual environment, self-controlling the difficulty level of a game will result in worse performance compared to a fixed difficulty level. Our hypothesis is evaluated using a novel VR game. Forty-five participants were randomly assigned to two between-participants groups: the Experimental group, in which the participant determined the desired level of difficulty in all five game sets by themselves, and the Controlled group, in which the level of difficulty was set to medium for all participants in all game sets. The results demonstrate that the mean difficulty level selected by the Experimental group was lower than medium in the first two sets, and higher than medium in the last three sets. In the last two sets, an earlier termination of the game and lower scores were demonstrated for the Experimental group compared to the Controlled group. The conclusions are that the participants in an unfamiliar virtual environment might not be able to select their difficulty levels to match the task at hand and might not optimize their learning zones.
A new genus and new species of freshwater crab (Decapoda: Brachyura:Gecarcinucidae) from the Central Western Ghats of India
Authors: PATI SAMEER KUMAR , BAJANTRI PARASHURAM PRABHU , HEGDE GOPALKRISHNA DATTATRAYA
Published: May 2023

A new genus and new species of gecarcinucid freshwater crab, Aradhya placida gen. et sp. nov., is recognized from the northern part of the Central Western Ghats of India. The new genus is diagnosed, and the new species from the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka state, is described herein. The new genus most resembles Arcithelphusa Pati & Sudha Devi, 2015, Cylindrotelphusa Alcock, 1909, Rajathelphusa Raj, Kumar & Ng, 2021, and Pavizham Raj, Kumar & Ng, 2022, in having an ovate, relatively narrow and deep carapace, with the front narrow as compared to other Indian gecarcinucid genera. Aradhya gen. nov. is nevertheless separated from those genera by the characters in the carapace, epigastric and postorbital cristae, external orbital angle, cervical grooves, third maxilliped, chelipeds, male thoracic sternites/sternopleonal cavity/pleon, male second gonopod, and especially by the elongated male telson and the stouter ultimate article of the male first gonopod.
1. A Journey to the ‘Self’
Authors: Axyonova Vera
Published: May 2023

In this chapter, I regard academic precarity as non-belonging and delve into personalized multi-dimensional non-belonging experiences. Reviewing my journey from home country Kazakhstan to German academia, I raise the issues of otherization and foreignness, asymmetric power relations, and an illusive diversity in Global North universities. While these issues often originate within the academic system, they are exacerbated by a perceived loss of a previous ‘self’ and difficulties in reconciling different ‘realities’ experienced by migrant scholars throughout their lives on the move.
3. Unlearning
Authors: Tănăsescu Mihnea
Published: May 2023

How are migrant academics trained to think of their own place within the profession and the society writ large? The essay explores this question, from a first-person perspective, and proposes that allegiance to one origin, and to one disciplinary model, is routinely requested, performed, and internalized. Consequently, finding one’s own way must pass through a continuous process of unlearning. Being a good academic, just like being a good migrant, is a weight to be slowly chipped away, until one becomes light enough to walk upright.
5. The Invisible Migrant. The (Im)Possibility of Getting Behind the Iron Curtain of Western Academia as an Eastern European Academic
Authors: Vitáčková Martina
Published: May 2023

The imaginary Iron Curtain is still dividing Europe, and even the European Union is very much comparable to the wall of ice in Game of Thrones. It is so difficult to get behind it, even though not in the physical sense of the word. And once you are in, you are still considered a wildling without ‘proper’ schooling, someone people should, in the best case, be mindful of. I would like to be able to say that this caution and cultural superiority one is treated with stays outside academia, but that is sadly not the case.
14. Conversation with San Precario
Authors: Strelkov Alexander
Published: May 2023

When you run out of rational explanations why your academic career is so insecure and challenging, when you passed the point of continuous self-doubt, what do you do? Yes, you turn to metaphysical explanations! Given the risk of losing the survival race in the most literate sense, you join forces with the global labour precariat of all shapes and sizes in beseeching San Precario for salvation. Although, dear reader, the author is fully familiar with Occam’s razor, he indulges in an intimate conversation with the Saint to reflect upon his own professional and personal Odyssey. The result is a mildly optimistic revelation that however intimidating academic precarity is, resisting it is still worthwhile, even if just for the sake of self-respect and personal integrity.
Venous Thromboembolism Chemoprophylaxis Compliance in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Nichols Chance , Schellenberg Morgan , Lewis Meghan R. , Emigh Brent , Switzer Emily , Inaba Kenji
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Early initiation of venous thromboembolism chemoprophylaxis (VTEp) decreases VTE risk in trauma patients in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU). The frequency and variation of VTEp interruption by different surgical subspecialties in the SICU is incompletely described in the literature. The objective of this study was to examine VTEp compliance in the SICU in terms of uninterrupted VTEp following initiation, both by surgical service and time of year, to identify opportunities for improvement.

Methods

This single-center quality improvement (QI) study examined all SICU patients, which are almost exclusively trauma patients, at our institution (1/2021-04/2022). Exclusions were therapeutic anticoagulation. Type of VTEp, calendar month of SICU stay, perceived indications for interruption, and primary service were collected.

Results

Of 5 434 patient days (PD), VTEp was not administered in 1879 (35%). Common reasons for VTEp interruption were ongoing bleeding (n = 964 PD, 51%) and periprocedural status (n = 651 PD, 35%). Periprocedural interruption was highest in July. Acute Care Surgery (ACS) (n = 208 PD, 32%) and Orthopedics (n = 188 PD, 29%) interrupted VTEp most often. ACS most commonly withheld VTEp for second look laparotomies while Orthopedics withheld VTEp for intramedullary nailing or external fixator application.

Conclusion

Missed VTEp doses occurred most frequently at the beginning of the residency year, with a high percentage held for periprocedural status. Because the necessity of periprocedural VTEp holds is unclear, the appropriateness of these holds and any impact on VTE rates will be assessed as the next steps. In the interim, our findings provide targets for multidisciplinary QI endeavors.
Early Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures is Feasible in Patients With Non-Urgent Operative Pelvic Injuries
Authors: Ladhani Husayn A. , Harrell Kevin N. , Burlew Clay Cothren , van Wijck Suzanne F.M. , Smith Elizabeth F. , Coleman Julia R. , Horwood Chelsea , Werner Nicole L. , Lawless Ryan , Platnick Barry , Campion Eric , Moore Ernest E. , VanDerPloeg Daniel , Parry Joshua A. , Pieracci Fredric M.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The feasibility of prioritizing surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) in patients with other injuries is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the timing and outcomes of SSRF between patients with and without non-urgent operative pelvic injuries.

Patients and Methods

In this retrospective observational study, all patients between 2010 and 2020 who underwent SSRF (SSRF group) and those who underwent SSRF and non-urgent operative management of pelvic fractures (SSRF + P group) were included. Demographics, injury characteristics, operative details, and outcomes were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

Over 11 years, 154 SSRF patients were identified, with 143 patients in the SSRF group (93%) and 11 patients in the SSRF + P group (7%). Median number of rib fractures (7 vs 9, P = .04), total number of fractures (11 vs 15, P < .01), and flail segment (54% vs 91%, P = .02) were higher in SSRF + P group. Median time to SSRF was similar (0 vs 1 day, P = .20) between the 2 groups. Median time to pelvic fixation was 3 days in SSRF + P group and 8 out of 11 patients (73%) underwent SSRF prior to pelvic fixation. Median operative time (137 vs 178 mins, P = .14) and median number of ribs plated (4 vs 5, P = .05) were higher in SSRF + P group. There was no difference in SSRF-related complications, pelvic fracture-related complications from operative positioning, rates of pneumonia, or mortality between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

SSRF can be performed early in patients with non-urgent operative pelvic injuries without a difference in pelvic fracture-related complications, SSRF-related complications, pneumonia, or mortality.
Prospective Study on Avoiding Seroma Formation by Flap Fixation After Modified Radical Mastectomy
Authors: Hakseven Musluh , Avşar Gökhan , Çetindağ Özhan , Deryol Rıza , Benk Mehmet Sah , Sırgancı Gözde , Culcu Serdar , Ünal Ali Ekrem , Bayar Sancar
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Seroma development after mastectomy is a common complication. Continued seroma causes increased outpatient visits, repeated aspirations, infection, delayed healing, delayed adjuvant therapy, and increased cost. Various treatments are being attempted to prevent and reduce seroma development. We examined the effects of flap fixation on seroma using absorbable sutures after modified radical mastectomy (MRM).

Methods

The prospectively recorded data of patients who underwent surgery for breast cancer were analyzed retrospectively. 72 consecutive patients who underwent MRM were included in the study. Patients who underwent MRM in the same way by the same surgeon were divided into two groups: the group whose wound was closed by fixing the flap to the chest wall with an absorbable suture (group A), and the group whose wound was closed with the classical method (group B). The groups were compared in terms of seroma development, clinicopathological data, and early complications.

Results

Drain removal time and the total amount of drained fluid in group A patients were significantly lower than drain removal time and the total amount of drained fluid in group B patients ( P < .001). Similarly, the amount of aspirated seroma in the control examinations of group A patients was significantly lower than that in group B ( P < .05). Group B needed re-aspiration significantly more than group A ( P < .05).

Conclusions

Flap fixation with suture after MRM is a method that reduces seroma formation and the amount of drained fluid, enables early removal of the drain, prevents delay in starting adjuvant treatment, is more comfortable for the patient and physician, and is also inexpensive.
Anorectal Manifestations of Treatment-Refractory Monkeypox Requiring Surgical Intervention
Authors: Cherfan Patrick , Massaad Elie , Hui Vanessa W.
Published: May 2023

Anorectal manifestations of monkeypox are increasingly being recognized as a potentially serious complication. We present the case of an HIV-positive, tecovirimat-treated male presenting with monkeypox virus-associated severe proctitis with associated perianal pathology. Despite the use of antiviral agents and intravenous vaccinia immune globulin, the monkeypox-associated perianal lesions evolved into abscesses, requiring incision and drainage. This report highlights a multidisciplinary approach involving surgery for anorectal complications of monkeypox virus-associated proctitis and perianal lesions. Surgery may offer immediate relief and reduce the potential long-term morbidity associated with severe monkeypox virus-associated rectal and perianal manifestations refractory to available medical countermeasures.
Morphometric Analysis and Observer Perceptions Following Transvestibular Chondrolaryngoplasty
Authors: Ziltzer Ryan S. , Bellamkonda Nikhil , Smith Alden , Lee Justine C. , Mendelsohn Abie H.
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

To assess novel morphometric measurement strategies and observer perception ratings as potential metrics for evaluating gender-affirming transvestibular chondrolaryngoplasty in reducing contour protrusion of the neck.

Methods:

High-resolution preoperative and 3-month postoperative photographs of a pilot series of 10 patients (n = 10) who underwent endoscopic transvestibular chondrolaryngoplasty were collected. Morphometric measurements of “light reflex” and lateral view thyroid protrusion angles of the neck contours were analyzed. Pre- and postoperative photographs were presented in random order in a survey to 17 untrained judges and rated on perceived masculinity/femininity and thyroid notch protrusion on a 7-point scale. A pre- to postoperative change in morphometric angles and subjective ratings was assessed using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.

Results:

Mean light reflex angles were reduced after surgery from 78.6° to 40.5° in the anterior neutral view ( P = .0003), from 45.2° to 24.4° in the anterior extended view ( P = .003), and from 7.03° to 4.32° in the lateral view ( P = .006). Median survey ratings of neck photographs were improved after surgery, from 4 to 3 in gender perception toward more feminine perception ( P < .0001) and from 4 to 2 in thyroid protrusion toward less protrusive perception ( P < .0001).

Conclusions:

Morphometric analysis in anterior and lateral views as well as subjective gender perception and contour protrusion measures following feminization chondrolaryngoplasty by endoscopic transvestibular scarless approach demonstrate encouraging possibilities as outcome evaluation measures for chondrolaryngoplasty.
Building Families’ Capacities: Community Forums with Parents and Occupational Therapists
Authors: Grandisson Marie , Martin-Roy Sarah , Marcotte Justine , Milot Élise , Girard Rébecca , Jasmin Emmanuelle , Fauteux Cynthia , Bergeron Julie
Published: May 2023

Background. Parents of a child considered to have special needs are at greater risk of stress and exhaustion. Although many occupational therapy interventions can help these children, they often require significant time and energy from families. Purpose. To document the perspectives of parents and occupational therapists regarding ways to offer services that help build families’ capacities without overloading them. Method. A qualitative descriptive design guided online community forums with 41 parents and occupational therapists in Quebec, Canada. Findings. Nine key principles to build the capacities of families without overburdening them were identified. These include being sensitive to possible negative impacts of services, avoiding overwhelming the family with information or recommendations, taking the needed time, highlighting the positive, and offering flexible conditions for services. Implications. Our findings help identify how capacity-building rehabilitation services can be offered to families to optimize positive outcomes and minimize harms.
Task-sharing psychosocial interventions for the prevention of common mental disorders in the perinatal period in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Prina Eleonora , Ceccarelli Caterina , Abdulmalik Jibril O , Amaddeo Francesco , Cadorin Camilla , Papola Davide , Tol Wietse A , Lund Crick , Barbui Corrado , Purgato Marianna
Published: May 2023

Aim:

to assess the efficacy of psychosocial interventions delivered through task-sharing approaches for preventing perinatal common mental disorders among women in low- and middle-income countries.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials following a prespecified protocol registered in the Open Science Framework (osf.io/qt4y3). We searched MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) through June 2022. Two reviewers independently extracted the data and evaluated the risk of bias of included studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. We performed random-effects meta-analyses and rated the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Results:

We included 23 studies with 24,442 participants. At post-intervention, task-shared psychosocial interventions, were effective in preventing the development of mental disorders in general (RR 0.57, 95% CI [0.35, 0.91]), and specifically depression (RR 0.51, 95% CI [0.35, 0.75]), but not anxiety disorders (RR 0.46, 95% CI [0.06, 3.33]). Similarly, psychosocial interventions reduced psychological distress (SMD −1.32, 95% CI [−2.28, −0.35]), and depressive symptoms (SMD −0.50, 95% CI [−0.80, −0.16]), and increased parenting self-efficacy (SMD −0.76, 95% CI [−1.13, −0.38]) and social support (SMD −0.72, 95% CI [−1.22, −0.22]). No effect was detected for anxiety symptoms at post-intervention. At follow-up the beneficial effects of interventions progressively decreased.

Conclusions:

Psychosocial interventions delivered through the task-sharing modality are effective in preventing perinatal common mental disorders and fostering positive mental health among women in low- and middle-income countries. However, our findings are tentative, due to the low number of preventative intervention strategies considering outcomes as the incidence of mental disorders, especially in the long-term. This evidence supports calls to implement and scale up psychosocial prevention interventions for perinatal common mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries.
Social Fields: Knowing the Water We Swim in
Authors: Pomeroy Eva , Herrmann Lukas
Published: May 2023

While the term ‘social field’ has surfaced sporadically in various disciplines throughout the twentieth Century, it has largely lain dormant as a conceptual framework. In this article, we re-introduce the social field as a foundational concept both for understanding collective lived experience and for developing methodologies to effect systems change. We explore and expand on three inter-related properties that we consider to be phenomena common to all social fields: intercorporeality, autonomy, and affordance. Drawing on recent and emerging intervention methodologies focusing on these properties, we illustrate the potential of taking a social field perspective for both diagnosis and intervention in the change process. We make the case that the social field is a distinct entity and a powerful leverage point for effecting systems change, and that the re-invigoration of social field theory and practice can make a significant contribution to the field of organizational and systems change.
Legal and human rights issues in the use of electronic monitoring (using GPS ‘tracking’ technology) in forensic mental health settings in the UK
Authors: Malek Sepand , Hearn Dave , Fahy Thomas , Tully John , Exworthy Tim
Published: May 2023

Electronic monitoring (EM) of individuals has been used by the criminal justice system for the past thirty years, and in the UK, use is on the increase. Its use has been justified as an alternative to prison to reduce recidivism and allowing early release of prisoners, however, the evidence base for this remains mixed. In 2010, it was employed for the first time in a forensic psychiatry setting. A study investigating the effects of EM on leave episodes concluded that EM may improve the speed of patient progress and reduce the length of admission, leading to reduced costs and increased public safety. However, the intervention generated considerable controversy and sparked discussion about ethical concerns. Here, we consider specifically legal and human rights issues that emerge from use of EM in forensic healthcare settings, scrutinising its use in the context of the Mental Health Act and the Human Rights Act. We conclude that EM is legal and justifiable, providing it is used judiciously and with due consideration of concerns for the individual and the given context.
Which hierarchy matters? Subjective social status, status incongruence and well-being among high-skilled Mainland Chinese migrants in Hong Kong
Authors: Sun Skylar Biyang , Jin Lei
Published: May 2023

We assessed how the high-skilled migrants’ statuses in Mainland China and Hong Kong and the discrepancies between the two statuses are related to their well-being outcomes. We used respondent-driven sampling method and obtained an analytical sample of 2,864 participants. The majority of the high-skilled migrants perceived higher status in Mainland China than in Hong Kong which is more consequential for their health and well-being. Compared to those who perceived similar statuses in the two locations, migrants who perceived different statuses tended to report lower levels of psychological well-being, providing evidence to the detrimental effects of status inconsistency.
Using a Generalized Logistic Regression Method to Detect Differential Item Functioning With Multiple Groups in Cognitive Diagnostic Tests
Authors: Sun Xiaojian , Wang Shimeng , Guo Lei , Xin Tao , Song Naiqing
Published: May 2023

Items with the presence of differential item functioning (DIF) will compromise the validity and fairness of a test. Studies have investigated the DIF effect in the context of cognitive diagnostic assessment (CDA), and some DIF detection methods have been proposed. Most of these methods are mainly designed to perform the presence of DIF between two groups; however, empirical situations may contain more than two groups. To date, only a handful of studies have detected the DIF effect with multiple groups in the CDA context. This study uses the generalized logistic regression (GLR) method to detect DIF items by using the estimated attribute profile as matching criteria. A simulation study is conducted to examine the performance of the two GLR methods, GLR-based Wald test (GLR-Wald) and GLR-based likelihood ratio test (GLR-LRT), in detecting the DIF items, the results based on the ordinary Wald test are also reported. Results show that (1) both GLR-Wald and GLR-LRT have more reasonable performance in controlling Type I error rates than the ordinary Wald test in most conditions; (2) the GLR method also produces higher empirical rejection rates than the ordinary Wald test in most conditions; and (3) using the estimated attribute profile as the matching criteria can produce similar Type I error rates and empirical rejection rates for GLR-Wald and GLR-LRT. A real data example is also analyzed to illustrate the application of these DIF detection methods in multiple groups.
What Affects Factor Loading Uncertainty and Expected Returns? The Role of Accounting Quality
Authors: Miao Bin , Ni Chenkai , Shi Charles
Published: May 2023

Despite considerable research on the association between accounting quality and expected returns, much is yet to be learnt about specific underlying mechanisms. Motivated by recent advancements in theoretical work, this study empirically examines how firm-specific information quality affects expected returns through its impact on the uncertainty of estimating factor loadings in asset pricing models. We document that the quality of accounting information is negatively associated with factor loading uncertainty. This result is robust to alternative measures of accounting quality and various model specifications. In addition, we document that factor loading uncertainty is negatively associated with expected returns. Together, our analyses present a coherent set of findings suggesting that factor loading uncertainty serves as an important underlying channel through which accounting quality is related to the cross-section of stock returns, thus providing new insight into the mixed findings reported in prior studies on the relation between accounting quality and expected returns.
In Silico Prediction of Eye Irritation Using Hansen Solubility Parameters and Predicted pKa Values
Authors: Andersson Martin , Norinder Ulf , Chavan Swapnil , Cotgreave Ian
Published: May 2023

An in silico method has been developed that permits the binary differentiation between pure liquids causing serious eye damage or eye irritation, and pure liquids with no need for such classification, according to the UN GHS system. The method is based on the finding that the Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSP) of a liquid are collectively important predictors for eye irritation. Thus, by applying a two-tier approach in which in silico-predicted pKa values (firstly) and a trained model based solely on in silico-predicted HSP data (secondly) were used, we have developed, and validated, a fully in silico approach for predicting the outcome of a Draize test (in terms of UN GHS Cat. 1/Cat. 2A/Cat. 2B or UN GHS No Cat.) with high validation set performance (sensitivity = 0.846, specificity = 0.818, balanced accuracy = 0.832) using SMILES only. The method is applicable to pure non-ionic liquids with molecular weight below 500 g/mol, fewer than six hydrogen bond donors (e.g. nitrogen–hydrogen or oxygen–hydrogen bonds) and fewer than eleven hydrogen bond acceptors (e.g. nitrogen or oxygen atoms). Due to its fully in silico characteristics, this method can be applied to pure liquids that are still at the desktop design stage and not yet in production.
The relationship between written discourse features and integrated listening-to-write scores for adolescent English language learners
Authors: Liao Ray J. T. , Ohta Renka , Lee Kwangmin
Published: May 2023

As integrated writing tasks in large-scale and classroom-based writing assessments have risen in popularity, research studies have increasingly concentrated on providing validity evidence. Given the fact that most of these studies focus on adult second language learners rather than younger ones, this study examined the relationship between written discourse features, vocabulary support, and integrated listening-to-write scores for adolescent English learners. The participants of this study consisted of 198 Taiwanese high school students who completed two integrated listening-to-write tasks. Prior to each writing task, a list of key vocabulary was provided to aid the students’ comprehension of the listening passage. Their written products were coded and analyzed for measures of discourse features and vocabulary use, including complexity, accuracy, fluency, organization, vocabulary use ratio, and vocabulary use accuracy. We then adopted descriptive statistics and hierarchical linear regression analyses to investigate the extent to which such measures were predictive of integrated listening-to-write test scores. The results showed that fluency, organization, grammatical accuracy, and vocabulary use accuracy were significant predictors of the writing test scores. Moreover, the results revealed that providing vocabulary support may not necessarily jeopardize the validity of integrated listening-to-write tasks. The implications for research and test development were also discussed.
Determination of the minimal important difference for inspiratory muscle strength in people with severe and very severe COPD
Authors: Beaumont Marc , Couasnon Charles , Péran Loic , Berriet Anne Cécile , Ber Catherine Le , Pichon Romain
Published: May 2023

Objective

Inspiratory muscle training is recommended for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with inspiratory muscle weakness. Clinical interpretation of changes in inspiratory muscle strength could be helped by the determination of cut-off values. The aim of this study was to estimate the minimal important difference for inspiratory muscle strength assessed with maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) in people with COPD.

Design

Post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial (EMI2 study) including people with severe to very severe COPD undergoing a pulmonary rehabilitation program was conducted. The determination of the minimal important difference was realized using both anchor-based and distribution-based methods.

Setting

The study includes patients admitted to the rehabilitation program unit of the Centre Hospitalier des Pays de Morlaix (Morlaix, France) between March 5, 2014 and September 8, 2016.

Participants

Seventy-three people with severe to very severe COPD (age 62.2  ±  8.0 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 s 36.4  ±  9.5% of theoretical) were analyzed.

Intervention

Patients followed a standardized pulmonary rehabilitation program 5 days a week for 4 weeks. The program included aerobic training, ground-based outdoor walking training, and strengthening of lower and upper limb muscles.

Main measures

At the end of the pulmonary rehabilitation program, MIP improved by 14.8  ±  14.9 cmH2O (p < 0.05). Regarding the anchor-based method, only the modified Medical Research Council was selected as an appropriate anchor. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis reported a minimal important difference of 13.5 cmH2O (sensibility: 75% specificity: 67.5%). Using distribution-based methods, the estimate of minimal important difference was 7.9 cmH2O (standard error of measurement method) and 10.9 cmH2O (size effect method).

Results

The estimations proposed by this study ranged from 7.9 to 13.5 cmH2O.

Conclusions

The measurement of minimal important difference is a simple tool for assessing the changes of inspiratory muscle strength during a pulmonary rehabilitation program. We propose a minimal important difference of 13.5 cmH2O for the improvement of MIP. Further studies are needed to confirm this estimation. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02074813
An anatomy of the British war on woke
Authors: Davies Huw C. , MacRae Sheena E.
Published: May 2023

The British war on woke is an intensive ideological campaign against social justice movements that is mobilising far-right tropes and conspiracy theories within mainstream British political discourse. It sees itself in a battle of good versus evil, reason against the dark forces of pre-modernity, ‘Cultural Marxists’ and a ‘globalist elite’ intent on ruining ‘western civilisation’ and replacing ‘white’ British culture with woke multiculturalism. The authors examine this campaign’s discourses on various digital media including magazines, blogs, news sites and Twitter, and used search engines and a media database to capture a network graph of a community waging its war on woke. Using the graph metric of ‘betweenness centrality’, they isolate and visualise a small densely inter-connected homophily of political actors who share media platforms and cooperate with think-tanks, campaign groups, and ‘educational charities’. Using van Dijk’s concept of the ideological square, they explore the conceptual logics driving this campaign to its extreme positions, often justified on the basis of representing the interests of the British white working class.
In Vitro Effects of Triamcinolone and Methylprednisolone on the Viability and Mechanics of Native Articular Cartilage
Authors: Fackler Nathan P. , Yareli-Salinas Evelia , Callan Kylie T. , Athanasiou Kyriacos A. , Wang Dean
Published: May 2023

Background:

The chondrotoxic effects of methylprednisolone acetate (MP) and triamcinolone acetonide (TA) have been well described. However, the mechanical effects of these commonly used steroids on native cartilage are largely unknown.

Purpose:

To investigate the in vitro effects of a single 1-hour MP or TA exposure on the viability, mechanics, and biochemical content of native articular cartilage explants.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Articular cartilage explants (n = 6 per group) were harvested from the femoral condyles of bovine stifles. Explants were exposed to chondrogenic medium containing a clinical dose of MP or TA for 1 hour, followed by fresh medium wash and exchange. Explants in the control group underwent the same treatment with chondrogenic medium alone. At 24 hours after treatment, samples were assessed for viability (live/dead), mechanical properties (creep indentation and Instron tensile testing), biochemical (collagen and glycosaminoglycan) content, and pyridinoline crosslinking via mass spectrometry.

Results:

Mean cell viability was significantly decreased in native explants exposed to MP (35.5%) compared with the control (49.8%; P < .001) and TA (45.7%; P = .01) specimens. Significant decreases were seen in the mechanical properties of steroid-treated native explants when compared with controls, with decreases in aggregate modulus (646.3 vs 312.8 kPa [MP] and 257.0 kPa [TA]; P < .001), shear modulus (370.1 vs 191.2 kPa [MP] and 157.4 kPa [TA]; P < .001), and ultimate tensile strength (9.650 vs 5.648 MPa [MP; P = .021] and 6.065 MPa [TA; P = .0403]). No significant differences in collagen and glycosaminoglycan content were found in the steroid-treated groups. Pyridinoline crosslinking was significantly decreased in explants exposed to TA compared with controls ( P = .027).

Conclusion:

Exposure of MP to articular cartilage explants was chondrotoxic, and exposure of articular cartilage explants to MP or TA resulted in significant decreases in mechanical properties of articular cartilage explants compared with controls. Clinicians should be judicious regarding use of intra-articular steroids, particularly in patients with intact healthy articular cartilage.
Lower Patellofemoral Joint Contact Force During Side-Step Cutting After Return-to-Sports Clearance Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: San Jose Argell J. , Maniar Nirav , Whiteley Rodney , Opar David A. , Timmins Ryan G. , Kotsifaki Roula
Published: May 2023

Background:

Low patellofemoral joint (PFJ) contact force has been associated with PFJ osteoarthritis. Quadriceps force and knee flexion angles, which are typically altered after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), primarily influence PFJ contact forces. It is still inconclusive whether differences in PFJ contact forces are present during high knee flexion tasks such as side-step cutting after clearance to return to sports (RTS) after ACLR.

Purpose:

To explore PFJ contact forces in the ACLR limb and compare them with those of the contralateral and control limbs during side-step cutting tasks after clearance to RTS.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 26 male athletes with ACLR who were previously cleared to RTS were matched with 23 healthy men serving as the control group. Three-dimensional motion capture and force plate data were collected while both groups performed anticipated side-step cutting tasks. Joint kinematics, kinetics, muscle forces, and PFJ contact forces were calculated using musculoskeletal modeling.

Results:

Peak PFJ force was lower in the ACLR limbs compared with the contralateral limbs (mean difference [MD], 5.89 body weight [BW]; 95% CI, 4.7-7.1 BW; P < .001) and the control limbs (MD, 4.44 BW; 95% CI, 2.1-6.8 BW; P < .001). During peak PFJ force, knee flexion angle was lower in ACLR limbs compared with the contralateral (MD, 4.88°; 95% CI, 3.0°-6.7°; P < .001) and control (MD, 6.01°; 95% CI, 2.0°-10.0°; P < .002) limbs. A lower quadriceps force compared with the contralateral (MD, 4.14 BW; 95% CI, 3.4-4.9 BW; P < .001) and control (MD, 2.83 BW; 95% CI, 1.4-4.3 BW; P < .001) limbs was also found.

Conclusion:

Lower PFJ contact forces and a combination of quadriceps force deficits and smaller knee flexion angle were found in the ACLR compared with the contralateral and control limbs even after clearance to RTS.

Clinical Relevance:

Despite rehabilitation and subsequent clearance to RTS, differences in PFJ contact forces are present after ACLR. Current rehabilitation and RTS battery may not be effective and sensitive enough to identify and address these differences.
Investigation of microstructural, hardness, and thermal properties of mechanically milled Al-Co-Cu-Mg alloys
Authors: Okumuş Mustafa , Demir Mehmet Emin , Dal Ahmet
Published: May 2023

In this study characterization of a novel Al66Co20Cu13Mg1 alloy produced by the mechanical alloying method was investigated. The effect of milling time on the produced alloy's microstructural evaluations, microhardness, and thermal behaviors was investigated. Scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffractometer results demonstrated that as the milling time was increased, the homogeneity was increased, the particle size was decreased, crystalline cubic Al(Co, Cu) solid solution, α-Co(Cu, Mg) solid solution phase and Al2Cu phase were formed with the mechanical alloying effect after milling of 50 h. When the powder alloy was milled for 100 h, most of the elemental peaks such as Al and Cu disappeared, and Al3.892Cu6.108 phase was formed. The crystallite size of the alloy powders after 100 h of milling was found as 17.42 ± 2 nm. Moreover, as the milling time was increased, both the lattice strain and dislocation density were increased because of fractures, the formation of new intermetallic phases, and excessive deformations. The microhardness of the pressed powder alloys was increased due to the cold welding and intermetallic phases formed in the powder alloy with increasing milling times. The lowest and highest microhardness values are found to be 275 ± 10 and 376 ± 10 HV for the unmilled alloy and the 100 h of milled alloy, respectively.
Sentiment Analysis of Celebrity-endorsed Advertisements
Authors: Murugesan Sivaranjan
Published: May 2023

The usage of Celebrity endorsers in brand advertising has become popular since the presence of a celebrity endorser is likely to positively influence the consumer to buy their products. Marketers expect that the celebrity’s endorsement will create an emotional tie to the product/brand and his/her good attributes will be transferred to the brand. Our research has focused on the impact of celebrity advertisements on consumers using sentiment analysis. Our objective was to use sentiment analysis to calculate the sentiment scores of advertisements with celebrity endorsements. We used four celebrity-endorsed advertisements and collected responses/reactions from consumers. The advertisement responses were analysed using ‘sentimentr’ for endorser congruence and endorser frequency conditions. The findings revealed that brand-endorser congruence and highly frequently appeared endorsers have received high sentiment scores. This research has shown that marketers need to choose brand-congruent and highly frequent endorsers for creating advertising impact.
Musical activities in preschool education: A cross-cultural comparative study
Authors: Bautista Alfredo , Riaño María Elena , Wong Joanne , Murillo Adolf
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the types of musical activities carried out in preschools for children aged 3–6 years in two contrasting cultural settings: Spain, a Mediterranean European country, and Hong Kong, a special administrative region in China. Participants were 398 teachers in preschools, 199 in each location. We administered a survey in which we asked how often they carried out 19 musical activities. In our analysis, we considered these activities independently and clustered by content (based on the type of musical practice involved) and nature (based on the potential of the activity to foster creativity). Participants in Hong Kong reported carrying out eight activities most often while participants in Spain reported carrying out four activities most often. Regarding content, Singing and Voice activities were provided most often in Hong Kong, whereas Rhythmic Movement activities were provided most often in Spain. Regarding nature, Reproductive activities were carried out more often than Creative activities in both locations. Contrary to our expectations, Creative activities were carried out more often in Hong Kong than Spain. We conclude that there are mismatches between the curriculum for music and actual practices in both cultures, with repetitive musical practices being the most prevalent. Implications are discussed for curriculum designers, teacher educators, and teachers themselves.
Evaluating the Association Between Fibrinogen and Rotational Thromboelastometry and the Progression to Severe Obstetric Hemorrhage
Authors: Yurashevich Mary , Rosser Morgan , Small Maria , Grotegut Chad , Kota Nancy , Toffaletti John , Allen Terrence
Published: May 2023

Aim

This study aims to investigate the ability of fibrinogen and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) parameters measured at obstetric hemorrhage protocol initiation to predict severe hemorrhage.

Methods

In this retrospective study we included patients whose hemorrhage was managed with an obstetric massive transfusion protocol. Fibrinogen and ROTEM parameters EXTEM clotting time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), alpha angle, A10, A20, lysis index 30 min after CT (LI30), FIBTEM A10, A20, were measured at initiation of the protocol with transfusion based on a predefined algorithm. Patients were grouped into either severe or nonsevere hemorrhage based on: peripartum fall in hemoglobin ≥4 g/dL, transfusion of ≥4 units of blood product, invasive procedures for hemorrhage control, intensive care unit admission, or death.

Results

Of the 155 patients included, 108 (70%) progressed to severe hemorrhage. Fibrinogen, EXTEM alpha angle, A10, A20, FIBTEM A10, A20 were significantly lower in the severe hemorrhage group while the CFT was significantly prolonged in the severe hemorrhage group. In univariate analysis, predicted progression to severe hemorrhage yielded areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95% confidence interval [CI]) of: fibrinogen: 0.683 (0.591-0.776), CFT: 0.671 (0.553, 0.789), EXTEM alpha angle: 0.690 (0.577-0.803), A10: 0.693 (0.570-0.815), A20: 0.678 (0.563-0.793), FIBTEM A10: 0.726 (0.605-0.847), and A20: 0.709 (0.594-0.824). In a multivariable model, fibrinogen was independently associated with severe hemorrhage (odds ratio [95% CI] = 1.037 [1.009-1.066]) for every 50 mg/dL decrease in fibrinogen drawn at obstetric hemorrhage massive transfusion protocol initiation.

Conclusion

Both fibrinogen and ROTEM parameters measured at the initiation of an obstetric hemorrhage protocol are useful parameters for predicting severe hemorrhage.
Child Witnesses Productively Respond to “How” Questions About Evaluations but Struggle With Other “How” Questions
Authors: Henderson Hayden , Sullivan Colleen E. , Wylie Breanne E. , Stolzenberg Stacia N. , Evans Angela D. , Lyon Thomas D.
Published: May 2023

Child interviewers are often advised to avoid asking “How” questions, particularly with young children. However, children tend to answer “How” evaluative questions productively (e.g., “How did you feel?”). “How” evaluative questions are phrased as a “How” followed by an auxiliary verb (e.g., “did” or “was”), but so are “How” questions requesting information about method or manner (e.g., “How did he touch you?”), and “How” method/manner questions might be more difficult for children to answer. We examined 458 5- to 17-year-old children questioned about sexual abuse, identified 2485 "How” questions with an auxiliary verb, and classified them as “How” evaluative ( n = 886) or “How” method/manner ( n = 1599). Across age, children gave more productive answers to “How” evaluative questions than “How” method/manner questions. Although even young children responded appropriately to “How” method/manner questions over 80% of the time, specific types of “How” method/manner questions were particularly difficult, including questions regarding clothing, body positioning, and the nature of touch. Children’s difficulties lie in specific combinations of “How” questions and topics, rather than “How” questions in general.
The soundtrack of criminal careers: On music, life courses and life stories
Authors: Goyes David Rodriguez , Sandberg Sveinung
Published: May 2023

Music is ubiquitous in contemporary societies, and criminologists are paying increasing attention to it, asserting that it takes antisocial, prosocial and anti-establishment forms regarding criminality. Established approaches provide vital ways to understand the relationship of music and crime, but criminologists have yet to theorise the fluidity of music's roles for those who have committed criminalised acts. The life-story interviews we conducted with prisoners in Latin America reveal that music's role in people's lives changes over the course of their lives in complex ways. It also frames and influences the way they talk about their own histories. Informed by repeat interviews with four prisoners, we suggest including the concepts of life courses and life stories to facilitate understanding the complexity and multi-dimensionality of the relationship between crime and music. We also demonstrate and discuss how life courses and life stories are intertwined.
Climate Change Adaptation and the Water–Energy–Food Nexus in Tanzania: Policy Trends and Smallholder Livelihoods
Authors: Ndesanjo Ronald Boniphace , Asokan Shilpa Muliyil
Published: May 2023

Water, energy and food security are critical for realizing the Green Economy initiative. This article aims to assess the implications of climate change on the Water–Energy–Food Nexus in Tanzania within the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) context. It analyses smallholder livelihoods in terms of access to and control over resources and investigates how their livelihoods are impacted by contested access to and control over land and water. We review relevant empirical knowledge and policy context in Tanzania and analyse the extent to which the policy environment promotes (or does not promote) smallholder adaptive capacity.