bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are public health measures and individualised care compatible in the face of a pandemic? A national observational study of bereaved relatives’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mayland Catriona R , Hughes Rosemary , Lane Steven , McGlinchey Tamsin , Donnellan Warren , Bennett Kate , Hanna Jeffrey , Rapa Elizabeth , Dalton Louise , Mason Stephen R
Published: May 2021

Background:

COVID-19 public health restrictions have affected end-of-life care experiences for dying patients and their families.

Aim:

To explore bereaved relatives’ experiences of quality of care and family support provided during the last days of life; to identify the impact of factors associated with perceived support.

Design:

A national, observational, open online survey was developed and disseminated via social media, public fora and professional networks (June–September 2020). Validated instruments and purposively designed questions assessed experiences. Analysis used descriptive statistics, logistic regression and thematic analysis of free-text responses.

Participants:

Individuals (⩾18 years) who had experienced the death of a relative/friend (all care settings) within the United Kingdome during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results:

Respondents ( n = 278, mean 53.4 years) tended to be female ( n = 216, 78%); over half were ‘son/daughter’ (174, 62.6%) to the deceased. Deceased individuals (mean 81.6 years) most frequently died in their ‘usual place of care’ ( n = 192, 69.3%). Analysis established five conceptual themes affecting individualised care: (1) public health restrictions compounding the distress of ‘not knowing’; (2) disparate views about support from doctors and nurses; (3) challenges in communication and level of preparedness for the death; (4) delivery of compassionate care; (5) emotional needs and potential impact on grief. Male respondents (OR 2.9, p = 0.03) and those able to visit (OR 2.2, p = 0.04) were independently associated with good perceptions of family support.

Conclusion:

Despite public health restrictions, individualised care can be enabled by proactive, informative communication; recognising dying in a timely manner and facilitating the ability to be present before death.
Impact of analgesia on cancer recurrence and mortality within 5 years after stage I non-small cell lung cancer resection
Authors: Rosboch Giulio Luca , Ceraolo Edoardo , De Domenici Ilaria , Guerrera Francesco , Balzani Eleonora , Lyberis Paraskevas , Ruffini Enrico , Brazzi Luca
Published: May 2021

Objective:

The choice of analgesia after cancer surgery may play a role in the onset of cancer recurrence. Particularly opioids seem to promote cancer cell proliferation and migration. Based on this consideration, we assessed the impact of perioperative analgesia choice on cancer recurrence after curative surgery for stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients undergoing lung resection for stage I NSCLC between January 2005 and December 2012. Patients received analgesia either by peridural (PERI group) or intravenous analgesia with opioids (EV group). Follow-up was concluded in August 2019. Five-year cumulative incidence of recurrence and overall survival were evaluated and adjusted using a propensity score matching method.

Results:

A total of 382 patients were evaluated, 312 belonging to the PERI group (81.7%) and 70 to the EV group (18.3%). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in 5-year cumulative incidence of recurrence ( p = 0.679) or overall survival rates ( p = 0.767). These results were confirmed after adjustment for propensity score matching for cumulative incidence of recurrence ( p = 0.925) or overall survival ( p = 0.663).

Conclusions:

We found no evidence suggesting an association between perioperative analgesia choice and recurrence-free survival or overall survival in patients undergoing surgical resection of stage I NSCLC.
Inviting and/or inclusive: A study of the Flemish public library sector
Authors: Mathysen Dennis , Glorieux Ignace
Published: May 2021

Comparing the results of two large-scale user surveys conducted in Flanders in 2004 and 2018 shows that the Flemish public library sector has successfully adapted to challenging circumstances, such as increasing budgetary stringency and the pervasive digitalization of society. However, it is also clear that attendance numbers have decreased in Flemish public libraries in the last two decades, especially among visitors with lower education levels, which is cause for concern. In this article, the authors present an overview of exploratory analyses that try to ascertain how many of the public libraries that took part in their study were considered to be significantly more (or less) ‘inviting’ by specific subgroups (age, gender, education level, etc.) of the visiting public. Moreover, regression analyses are presented, showing which library characteristics have a positive effect on the attendance of two under-represented groups among Flemish library users: men and the lower educated.
Field Theory for Some Traffic Phenomena and Fundamental Diagram
Authors: Ni Daiheng
Published: May 2021

A fundamental diagram consists of a scatter of traffic flow data sampled at a specific location and aggregated from vehicle trajectories. These trajectories, if presented equivalently, constitute a microscopic version of the (conventional) fundamental diagram. The cross-reference between vehicle trajectories and the microscopic fundamental diagram provides details of vehicle motion dynamics which allow causal-effect analysis on some traffic phenomena and further reveal the microscopic basis of the conventional fundamental diagram. This observation inspires theoretical modeling by a microscopic approach to address traffic phenomena and the conventional fundamental diagram. Derived from the field theory of traffic flow, the longitudinal control model is capable of serving the purpose without the modifications or exceptions used by other approaches.
A How-to Guide for Open-Science Practices in Special Education Research
Authors: Cook Bryan G. , Fleming Jesse I. , Hart Sara A. , Lane Kathleen Lynne , Therrien William J. , van Dijk Wilhelmina , Wilson Sarah Emily
Published: May 2021

Open-science reforms, which aim to increase credibility and access of research, have the potential to benefit the research base in special education, as well as practice and policy informed by that research base. Awareness of open science is increasing among special education researchers. However, relatively few researchers in the field have experience using multiple open-science practices, and few practical guidelines or resources have been tailored to special education researchers to support their exploration and adoption of open science. In this article, we described and provided guidelines and resources for applying five core open-science practices—preregistration, registered reports, data sharing, materials sharing, and open-access publishing—in special education research.
Numerical study on the effects of installing an inducer on a pump in a turbopump
Authors: Kim Changhyun , Choi Chang-Ho , Kim Semi , Baek Jehyun
Published: May 2021

In a projectile, a turbopump is widely used to pressurize oxidizer and fuel to gain high thrust instead of using high pressure tank which has a disadvantage in total weight. Pumps in a turbopump employ an inducer upstream to prevent performance degradation by increasing pressure at the impeller inlet. However, cavitation and related instabilities take place frequently, so numerous analysis have been conducted for turbopumps. In this study, the pumps with and without an inducer were numerically studied using ANSYS CFX 13.0 to analyze the effects of installing an inducer, which was rarely treated before. By comparing these two pumps, the merits and demerits of installing an inducer can be analyzed in the aspects of hydraulic/suction performances and internal flow characteristics. Also, the role of an inducer can be understood in both of non-cavitating and cavitating conditions. As a result, head rise and efficiency of the pump were degraded by installing an inducer in non-cavitating conditions. The inducer could not play a role at high flow rate, and efficiency of the inducer was steeply declined in the off-design conditions. However, suction performance of the pump was greatly improved by adopting the inducer. Head of the pump with an inducer abruptly decreased at the low cavitation numbers, while head of the pump without an inducer started to decline gradually at the high cavitation numbers. In spite of high cavitation number, severe cavitation appeared in the case without an inducer, so it can be said that installing an inducer can prevent performance deterioration from the cavitation and satisfies stable operation which is more important for pumps rather than obtaining high hydraulic performance.
Agriculture-based community engagement in rural libraries
Authors: Singh Vandana , Mehra Bharat , Sikes Everett Scott
Published: May 2021

Community engagement in rural libraries receives little focus and is an overlooked area of research. In this article, we report exemplars of agriculture-based community engagement in rural and Southern and Central Appalachian region of the United States. An online survey of rural library professionals demonstrates the positive impact of agriculture-based engagement activities on the overall community-engagement initiatives in this region. This article synthesizes eight distinct agriculture-based initiatives with many subprojects, lists an inventory of stakeholders involved in agriculture-based community-engagement initiatives, and highlights the challenges faced by the rural libraries. Three successful examples, namely, seed library, community gardens, and farmers’ market initiatives, are presented with details to help other libraries adopt these successful community-engagement initiatives. The results show that rural libraries are very creative with their limited resources and they hit many areas of impact in the community through their community-engagement activities.
In Vitro Characterization of Poly(Lactic Acid)/ Poly(Hydroxybutyrate)/ Thermoplastic Starch Blends for Tissue Engineering Application
Authors: Culenova Martina , Birova Ivana , Alexy Pavol , Galfiova Paulina , Nicodemou Andreas , Moncmanova Barbora , Plavec Roderik , Tomanova Katarina , Mencik Premysl , Ziaran Stanislav , Danisovic Lubos
Published: May 2021

Complex in vitro characterization of a blended material based on Poly(Lactic Acid), Poly(Hydroxybutyrate), and Thermoplastic Starch (PLA/PHB/TPS) was performed in order to evaluate its potential for application in the field of tissue engineering. We focused on the biological behavior of the material as well as its mechanical and morphological properties. We also focused on the potential of the blend to be processed by the 3D printer which would allow the fabrication of the custom-made scaffold. Several blends recipes were prepared and characterized. This material was then studied in the context of scaffold fabrication. Scaffold porosity, wettability, and cell-scaffold interaction were evaluated as well. MTT test and the direct contact cytotoxicity test were applied in order to evaluate the toxic potential of the blended material. Biocompatibility studies were performed on the human chondrocytes. According to our results, we assume that material had no toxic effect on the cell culture and therefore could be considered as biocompatible. Moreover, PLA/PHB/TPS blend is applicable for 3D printing. Printed scaffolds had highly porous morphology and were able to absorb water as well. In addition, cells could adhere and proliferate on the scaffold surface. We conclude that this blend has potential for scaffold engineering.
A comparative study of mechanical and machining performance of polymer hybrid and carbon fiber epoxy composite materials
Authors: Erturk A Tamer , Yarar Eser , Vatansever Fahri , Sahin Alp Eren , Kilinçel Mert , Alpay Yakup Okan
Published: May 2021

Fiber-reinforced plastics are known as advanced composite materials thanks to their high strength and lightweight features. Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are one of the high-performance and high-cost fiber-reinforced polymer (FRPs) materials. They are used in several high-performance engineering applications such as motorsports, marine, aviation, energy and defense industry. The cost of carbon fiber is higher compared to many other materials, more competitive and cost-effective productions will spur the demand for composite parts exponentially. Thus, hybrid laminate composite containing carbon and glass fiber materials were manufactured as an alternative for CFRP materials. Because using glass fiber prepreg instead of carbon fiber prepreg will lead the material to become cheaper. However, machining of the FRP materials is still an important issue. For this reason, the present study is focused on the mechanical and machining performance of the polymer hybrid and carbon fiber epoxy composites.
Frequency domain consensus control analysis of the networked multi-agent system with controller area network bus–induced delay
Authors: Nasir Muhammad , Hayat Muhammad Faisal , Jamal Ayesha , Ahmed Zahoor
Published: May 2021

This article describes the consensus control issue of networked multi-agent system with controller area network bus–induced delay in the frequency domain. Initially, causes of the controller area network bus–induced delay in distributed networked control systems and features of controller area network buses are analyzed. Then, networked multi-agent systems composed of distributed networked control systems are modeled in the frequency domain. An analytical controller based on the parameterization technique is proposed to improve the H2 performance criterion of distributed networked control systems. The performance tracking and robustness of the controller is analyzed by its sensitivity functions. After the performance and robustness analysis, the delay margin criteria and consensus conditions of networked multi-agent systems are derived in the existence of controller area network bus–induced delay. We verify the efficiency of the proposed method by simulating examples.
It Happened Matters More Than What Happened: Associations Between Intimate Partner Violence Abuse Type, Emotion Regulation, and Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms
Authors: Ruork Allison K. , McLean Caitlin L. , Fruzzetti Alan E.
Published: May 2021

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has varied consequences including post-traumatic stress (PTS). One proposed risk factor for PTS is escalating types of violence; however, data are mixed. Because emotion dysregulation acts as a causal mechanism across numerous problems co-occurring in survivors of IPV, this study examined its association with PTS severity versus abuse type. Regression using data from women ( n = 89) seeking treatment for IPV-related distress found the following: Type of abuse was not related to emotion dysregulation and emotion dysregulation was more strongly associated with PTS than type of abuse. This suggests emotion dysregulation may be more predictive of PTS than abuse type.
Vision related quality of life of patients with keratoconus after keratoplasty at a Tertiary Eye Hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Qahtani Bader S , Al-Swailem Samar A , Ahmad Khabir , Khandekar Rajiv
Published: May 2021

Purpose:

To assess the vision-related quality of life (VQoL) for patients with advanced keratoconus (KC) after primary keratoplasty.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study, undertaken at the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in December 2015. Adults (aged 22–75 years) were interviewed via telephone with regard to their VQoL, on the average, 5 years after undergoing primary keratoplasty for advanced KC. VQoL was measured using the Visual Functioning Index (VF-14, Arabic version). The relationship between VQoL and different demographic and clinical factors was evaluated using linear regression.

Results:

Ninety-five adults participated in the study (54.7 % males; mean age at the interview = 32.05 ± 7.18 years). Eighty-seven (91.6%) of them had undergone PKP. The overall mean VF-14 score was 86.19% (SD: 12.91). VF-14 score was significantly lower for individuals with higher log average K (beta coefficient, −28.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], −55.59 to −1.04; p = 0.042) and hazy graft (beta coefficient, −12.76; 95% CI, −21.16 to −4.36; p = 0.003) adjusting for the effect of keratoplasty technique and BCVA in the better eye at the last follow up.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that most patients with advanced keratoconus had satisfactory VQoL after primary keratoplasty. Certain subgroups may benefit less substantially than others and would need a particular attention.
Corneal cross-linking for keratoconus: Evaluation of the retina and choroid
Authors: Nasrollahi Kobra , Razmjoo Fatemeh , Naderan Morteza , Peyman Alireza
Published: May 2021

Purpose:

To investigate the possible structural changes of the central choroid and retina after collagen cross-linking (CXL) in patients with progressive keratoconus (KCN).

Methods:

Twenty-five eyes of 25 patients were included in this study. Patients underwent enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) before and 1 month after CXL. The values for central macular thickness (CMT), subfoveal choroidal thickness (CHT), and choroidal volume (CHV) were evaluated.

Results:

CMT before and after CXL was 263.24 ± 16.25 μm and 263.20 ± 16.51 μm, respectively ( p = 0.98). CHT was 362.08 ± 36.80 μm and 367.84 ± 33.67 μm before and after CXL, respectively ( p = 0.26). CHV was 8.74 ± 0.33 mm3 and 8.68 ± 0.36 mm3 before and after CXL, respectively ( p = 0.11). There was no significant difference in the corrected distance visual acuity before and after CXL (0.06 ± 0.05 and 0.05 ± 0.05 logMAR, respectively, p = 0.65).

Conclusion:

Central retinal and choroidal thicknesses are not changed after corneal cross- linking.
The role of promotion expenditures, direct flights and climate in island destinations
Authors: Cró Susana , Correia Pedro , Martins António Miguel
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the importance of promotion expenditures, direct flights, and climate, among other variables commonly used in gravity models, in the attractiveness of international tourists to an insular destination, in this particular case, Madeira. These three variables are rarely present in gravity models that analyse international demand. Given the possibility of endogeneity, a dynamic model is estimated for the annual panel data set of the 13 main tourist-generating markets for Madeira between 2005 and 2018. The results indicate that traditional gravity variables are significant in explaining international demand. They also show that promotion expenditures, climate, and the number of direct flights are important competitive factors. Promotion expenditures are of fundamental importance given the weight of the tourism sector in insular economic activity. Our results contribute to the debate that has already started about effective tourism policy making and strategies in the post-pandemic of COVID-19.
Supporting LGBT+ People Experiencing Hate: Perspectives from LGBT+ Youth and Community Workers
Authors: Pickles James
Published: May 2021

Based on data taken from lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT+) youth and community workers, this article highlights the occupational stressors experienced by LGBT+ professionals who provide emotional support to service users and theorises the potential for vicarious victimisation to occur as a result. Research suggests that the emotional harms of ‘hate’ can indirectly victimise those with a shared identity as the primary victim, through emotional contagion. However, little research has been carried out on those who support victims of hate. I theorise that vicarious victimisation may occur where an individual, who shares the primary victim’s identity, takes on their experiences through a therapeutic relationship as a negative consequence of the emotional labour performed.
The role of race, religion, and partisanship in misperceptions about COVID-19
Authors: Druckman James N. , Ognyanova Katherine , Baum Matthew A. , Lazer David , Perlis Roy H. , Volpe John Della , Santillana Mauricio , Chwe Hanyu , Quintana Alexi , Simonson Matthew
Published: May 2021

Concerns about misperceptions among the public are rampant. Yet, little work explores the correlates of misperceptions in varying contexts – that is, how do factors such as group affiliations, media exposure, and lived experiences correlate with the number of misperceptions people hold? We address these questions by investigating misperceptions about COVID-19, focusing on the role of racial/ethnic, religious, and partisan groups. Using a large survey, we find the number of correct beliefs held by individuals far dwarfs the number of misperceptions. When it comes to misperceptions, we find that minorities, those with high levels of religiosity, and those with strong partisan identities – across parties – hold a substantially greater number of misperceptions than those with contrasting group affiliations. Moreover, we show other variables (e.g., social media usage, number of COVID-19 cases in one’s county) do not have such strong relationships with misperceptions, and the group-level results do not reflect acquiescence to believing any information regardless of its truth value. Our results accentuate the importance of studying group-level misperceptions on other scientific and political issues and developing targeted interventions for these groups.
A group processes approach to antiscience beliefs and endorsement of “alternative facts”
Authors: Rutjens Bastiaan T. , van der Linden Sander , van der Lee Romy , Zarzeczna Natalia
Published: May 2021

The global spread of antiscience beliefs, misinformation, fake news, and conspiracy theories is posing a threat to the well-being of individuals and societies worldwide. Accordingly, research on why people increasingly doubt science and endorse “alternative facts” is flourishing. Much of this work has focused on identifying cognitive biases and individual differences. Importantly, however, the reasons that lead people to question mainstream scientific findings and share misinformation are also inherently tied to social processes that emerge out of divisive commitments to group identities and worldviews. In this special issue, we focus on the important and thus far neglected role of group processes in motivating science skepticism. The articles that feature in this special issue cover three core areas: the group-based roots of antiscience attitudes; the intergroup dynamics between science and conspiratorial thinking; and finally, insights about science denial related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Across all articles, we highlight the role of worldviews, identities, norms, religion, and other inter- and intragroup processes that shape antiscientific attitudes. We hope that this collection will inspire future research endeavors that take a group processes approach to the social psychological study of science skepticism.
The ideological basis of antiscientific attitudes: Effects of authoritarianism, conservatism, religiosity, social dominance, and system justification
Authors: Azevedo Flávio , Jost John T.
Published: May 2021

Serious concerns about public distrust of scientific experts and the spread of misinformation are growing in the US and elsewhere. To gauge ideological and psychological variability in attitudes toward science, we conducted an extensive analysis of public opinion data based on a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults ( N = 1,500) and a large replication sample ( N = 2,119). We estimated the unique effects of partisanship, symbolic and operational forms of political ideology, right-wing authoritarianism (RWA), social dominance orientation (SDO), and general system justification (GSJ), after adjusting for demographic factors. Multiverse analyses revealed that (a) conservatism and SDO were significant predictors of distrust of climate science in > 99.9% of model specifications, with conservatism accounting for 80% of the total variance; (b) conservatism, RWA, religiosity, (male) sex, (low) education, (low) income, and distrust of climate science were significant predictors of skepticism about science in general (vs. faith) in > 99.9% of model specifications; (c) conservatism, RWA, (low) education, and distrust of climate science were significant predictors of trust in ordinary people (over scientific experts) > 99.9% of the time; and (d) GSJ was a significant predictor of trust in scientific experts (over ordinary people) 81% of the time, after adjusting for all other demographic and ideological factors. Implications for the role of science in democratic society are discussed.
Linear model to describe the working of a three layers CLT strip slab: Experimental and numerical validation
Authors: Sciomenta Martina , Egidio Angelo Di , Bedon Chiara , Fragiacomo Massimo
Published: May 2021

Experimental out-of-plane, four-points bending tests were performed on two series of three-layered Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) panels made of Calabrian Beech and Calabrian Beech and Corsican Pine respectively. The predominant failure mechanism was rolling shear alongthe innerlayer and the glue line. A linear elastic model of a three-layered, CLT panel was developed to describe the stress distribution in CLT slabs in bending, with a focus on their load-bearing performance before the propagation of cracks. In the analytical model, each timber layer was defined as an Euler-Bernoulli beam. The two glue lines were modeled using extensional springs, infinitely rigid in the direction perpendicular to the beam’s axis, and with a defined stiffness in the tangential direction. The outer layers are assumed axially flexible whilethe innerone is regarded as axially rigid. The results of the proposed model were thus compared and validated with the experimental evidence and with additional FE numerical predictions given by 3D numerical simulations carried out in Abaqus.
Pandemic, lockdown and the stalled urbanization of welfare regimes in Southern Africa
Authors: Gronbach Lena , Seekings Jeremy
Published: May 2021

While Covid-19 caused few fatalities across most of Africa – with the notable exception of South Africa – the indirect economic effects were substantial, especially in urban areas. International organizations encouraged governments to expand their provision, especially for the urban poor. South Africa extended temporarily its already considerable system of social protection and introduced new implementation systems. Elsewhere, governments that had hitherto appeared ambivalent about social protection resisted major reforms, even on a temporary basis. In Zambia, the government committed considerable resources to small farmers but ignored almost entirely cash transfers to the poor. Botswana provided food parcels but did not expand its social grant programmes. The shock of Covid-19 in Southern Africa did not prove to be a ‘critical juncture’: Powerful pro-reform coalitions did not form to shift governments onto new policy paths. National governments were generally reluctant either to introduce programmes that were targeted on the urban poor specifically or to allow countrywide emergency programmes to become permanent. The crisis thus did not lead to any clear ‘urbanisation’ of welfare regimes in the region, despite the disproportionate effect of the crisis on the urban poor.
Autopsy as a site and mode of inquiry: de/composing the ghoulish hu/man gaze
Authors: Carey Neil , Fairchild Nikki , Taylor Carol A , Koro Mirka , Elmenhorst Constanse , Benozzo Angelo
Published: May 2021

For centuries the autopsy has been a key technology in Western culture for generating clinical/medical as well as cultural knowledge about bodies. This article hails the anato-medical autopsy as a generative trope and apparatus in reconfiguring Western humanist knowledge of bodies and bodies of knowledge and takes up the possibilities of working with the concept of autopsy in disrupting qualitative research methodology. In doing so, the article outlines and returns (to) a series of research-creation experiments assembled at an academic conference, which engaged with the challenges for social science knowledge laid out by Law’s (2004) After Method book. Our research-creation experiments centred autopsy as a theoretical-methodological gaze and apparatus for de-composing qualitative research methodology by engaging with post-humanist and new material feminist thinking.
Production and properties of natural rubber glove using sustainable benign accelerator
Authors: Tangavaloo Vishantini , Yuhana Nor Yuliana , Lih Jiun Yu
Published: May 2021

In natural polyisoprene glove manufacturing industries, the selection of accelerators in the curing system is mainly determined by the curing characteristics, maturation time required, cross-link density and mechanical properties of gloves. In this study, a new accelerator replacing conventional ones in a typical glove manufacturing process, was studied in order to produce free carcinogen dipped article. The glove properties and performance prepared by using both conventional and new proposed accelerators were studied and compared. The use of a conventional accelerator tends to release carcinogenic chemicals namely N-nitrosamine and N-nitrosatable substances. These chemicals are restrained on dipped articles under the requirement of EN 71-12:2013. Xanthogen accelerators promote the reduction of carcinogenic chemicals, but they are associated with prolonged maturation hour, which is unfavourable in the manufacturing industry. This study used a mixture of a benign accelerator, namely, diisononyldithiocarbamate and diisopropyl xanthogen polysulfide, to substitute the usage of conventional accelerators zinc dibutyl dithiocarbamate and zinc diethyl dithiocarbamate. The effects of benign accelerator loading in latex compounds were studied by focusing on the swelling index, maturation hour, carcinogenic chemical released and mechanical properties, thermal degradation and stability. Results showed no presence of N-nitrosamines and N-nitrosatable substances in the final dipped products by using 0.3 and 0.5 phr of benign accelerator. This study showed that 0.5 phr of benign accelerator achieved a moderate pre-vulcanising rate and improved the pre-ageing tensile strength and elongation by 11% and 7.0%, respectively. Moreover, its thermal stability was higher and discolouration intensity was lower as compared with the conventional accelerator.
Reactive compatibilization of biodegradable PLA/TPU blends via hybrid nanoparticle
Authors: Kilic Nilay Tuccar , Can Buse Nur , Kodal Mehmet , Özkoç Güralp
Published: May 2021

In this study, the compatibilization effects of triglycidylisobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (TEpPOSS) on biodegradable poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) blends were investigated. All blends were prepared via melt blending and PLA/TPU (80/20, 70/30, 50/50 wt%) ratio was selected as the experimental parameter. In order to predict the selective localization of TEpPOSS thermodynamically, wetting coefficient were determined by means of surface energy measurements. Morphological analyses were carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Moreover, rheological, mechanical, thermomechanical and thermal properties of the blends were performed via rheometer, universal tensile tester, dynamic mechanic analyses and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), respectively. Morphological test results revealed that TEpPOSSs were mostly located at the interfaces of the PLA and TPU phases. According to the rheological studies, the interfacial interactions between PLA and TPU were improved with the addition of TEpPOSS, which resulted from the potential reactions between epoxy-carboxylic acid and/or epoxy-hydroxyl functional groups. The addition of TEpPOSS enhanced the mechanical properties of PLA/TPU blends. DSC test results revealed a decrease in the glass transition temperatures of PLA in the presence of TEpPOSS, which was an another indication of improved compatibility between PLA and TPU.
GE11 Modified PLGA/TPGS Nanoparticles Targeting Delivery of Salinomycin to Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Kaichun , Pang Liying , Pan Xiaorong , Fan Shaonan , Wang Xinxin , Wang Qiaoyun , Dai Ping , Gao Wei , Gao Jie
Published: May 2021

Salinomycin (Sal) is a potent inhibitor with effective anti-breast cancer properties in clinical therapy. The occurrence of various side effect of Sal greatly limits its application. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family is a family of receptors highly expressed in most breast cancer cells. GE11 is a dodecapeptide which shows excellent EGFR affinity. A series of nanoparticles derivatives with GE11 peptide conjugated PLGA/TPGS were synthesized. Nanoprecipitation method was used to prepare the Sal loaded nanoparticles at the optimized concentration. The characterization, targeting efficacy, and antitumor activity were detected both in vitro and in vivo. Encapsulation of Sal in GE11 modified PLGA/TPGS nanoparticles shows an improved therapy efficacy and lower systemic side effect. This represents the delivery system a promising strategy to enhance the therapeutic effect against EGFR highly expressed breast cancer.
COVID-19 Survey Participation and Wellbeing: A Survey Experiment
Authors: Sollis Kate , Biddle Nicholas , Edwards Ben , Herz Diane
Published: May 2021

Individuals throughout the world are being recruited into studies to examine the social impacts of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). While previous literature has illustrated how research participation can impact distress and wellbeing, to the authors’ best knowledge no study has examined this in the COVID-19 context. Using an innovative approach, this study analyses the impacts of participation in a COVID-19 survey in Australia on subjective wellbeing through a survey experiment. At a population level, we find no evidence that participation impacts subjective wellbeing. However, this may not hold for those with mental health concerns and those living in financial insecurity. These findings provide the research community with a deeper understanding of the potential wellbeing impacts from COVID-19-related research participation.
Mixed Methods Research and Quantum Theory: Q Methodology as an Exemplar for Complementarity
Authors: Ramlo Susan
Published: May 2021

In 1989, Jennifer Greene and colleagues introduced the idea of complementarity in mixed methods research (MMR) without referencing the parallels within physics. Complementarity in physics represents the idea that two contrasted theories are necessary to explain a set of phenomena, such as the wave–particle duality. Few MMR studies provide clear examples of complementarity, and some have questioned if complementarity is possible. However, the creator of Q methodology, William Stephenson, physicist and psychologist, made numerous connections between his methodology and quantum theory, including complementarity. The purpose of this article is to describe complementarity within Q methodology and physics and connect these definitions to complementarity as discussed within the MMR community.
Assessing Factors Associated With Altmetric Attention Score: A Preliminary Study of 3 Hand Surgery Journals
Authors: Bernstein David N. , Richardson Michelle A. , Hammert Warren C.
Published: May 2021

Background

Traditional measures of evaluating scholarly output do not capture the impact social media can provide in disseminating and promoting research. We sought to better understand the level of online attention that high-quality hand research received.

Methods

Scientific manuscripts published from 2017 in Journal of Hand Surgery (American Volume) ( JHS-A), Journal of Hand Surgery ( European Volume) ( JHS-E), and HAND were recorded. Manuscript characteristics were determined, including the number of citations. Altmetric Attention Score (AAS), a measure of a manuscript’s online attention and impact, was determined, as well as Twitter mentions, Facebook mentions, and news outlet mentions. Spearman rho (ρ) correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the relationship between the number of citations and AAS. Multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to determine which manuscript factors were associated with AAS.

Results

A total of 323 manuscripts were identified. There was a weak positive correlation between the number of citations and AAS; however, this relationship did not exist for each individual journal. Publication in HAND and JHS-E were associated with lower average manuscript AAS when using JHS-A as the reference group. Two additional factors were also associated with increased manuscript AAS: (1) being a clinical study focused on a specific upper extremity anatomical location; and (2) increasing number of institutions on a study.

Conclusions

Publication in HAND and JHS-E were associated with lower manuscript AAS when using JHS-A as the reference group, suggesting that HAND and JHS-E have room for improvement in using social media to share their high-quality hand surgery scientific articles.
Silicon Application Modulates Growth, Physio-Chemicals, and Antioxidants in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Exposed to Different Cadmium Regimes
Authors: Thind Sumaira , Hussain Iqbal , Ali Shafaqat , Rasheed Rizwan , Ashraf Muhammad Arslan
Published: May 2021

Silicon (Si) application enhanced the tolerance of plants against different environmental stresses. Therefore, objective of the study revealed that foliar applied Si alleviates the adverse effect of Cd by enhancing the growth, metabolite accumulation, strengthening the antioxidant defense system, reducing oxidative injury, improving plant nutrient status, and decreasing the Cd uptake in wheat. The surface sterilized seeds of Sahar-2006 (tolerant) and Inqalab-91 (sensitive) having the differential metal tolerance capacity were sown in plastic pots containing normal and Cd spiked sandy loamy soil. The design of experiments was completely randomized with 3 replicates per treatment. Two weeks after germination, plants were sprayed with different concentrations of Si (1.5 and 3 mM) with 0.1% surfactant in the form of Tween-20. The plants were harvested after 2 weeks of Si application to determine various attributes. High concentration of Cd (25 mg kg-1) decreased growth-related-attributes, essential nutrient uptake and increase the levels of oxidative stress indicators. The application of Si increased the growth-related attributes, photosynthetic pigments, essential nutrient uptake and also enhanced the activities of various antioxidant compounds (superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD, ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT) by decreasing the contents of oxidative stress indicators and Cd uptake in root and shoot of both wheat cultivars. Sahar-2006 cultivar showed more tolerance to Cd regimes than that of Inqalab-91 as clear from greater plant dry masses. Thus, our results showed that the applied Si level (3 mM) is an efficient strategy for field use in the areas, where slightly Cd polluted soils limit the agriculture production.
Coordinated compliance control of dual-arm robot astronaut for payload operation
Authors: Hu Bingshan , Yan Lei , Han Liangliang , Yu Hongliu
Published: May 2021

Dual-arm robot astronaut has more general and dexterous operation ability than single-arm robot, and it can interact with astronaut more friendly. The robot will inevitably use both arms to grasp payloads and transfer them. The force control of the arms in closed chains is an important problem. In this article, the coordinated kinematic and dynamic equations of the dual-arm astronaut are established by considering the closed-chain constraint relationship. Two compliance control methods for dual-arm astronaut coordinated payload manipulating are proposed. The first method is called master–slave force control and the second is the shared force control. For the former, the desired path and operational force of the master arm should be given in advance and that of slave arm are calculated from the dual-arm robot closed-chain constraint equation. In the share control mode, the desired path and end operational force of dual arms are decomposed from the dual-arm robot closed-chain constraint equation directly and equally. Finally, the two control algorithms are verified by simulation. The results of analysis of variance of the simulation data show that the two control methods have no obvious difference in the accuracy of force control but the second control method has a higher position control accuracy, and this proves that the master–slave mode is better for tasks with explicit force distribution requirements and the shared force control is especially suitable for a high-precision requirement.
Virtual bronchoscopic navigation versus non-virtual bronchoscopic navigation assisted bronchoscopy for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Giri Mohan , Puri Anju , Wang Ting , Huang Guichuan , Guo Shuliang
Published: May 2021

Background:

Image-guided bronchoscopy techniques such as virtual bronchoscopic navigation (VBN) has emerged as a means of assisting in the biopsy of peripheral pulmonary lesions. However, the role of VBN-assisted (VBNA) bronchoscopy in the diagnosing of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) has not been well established. This meta-analysis investigated the diagnostic yield of VBN-assisted versus non-VBN-assisted (NVBNA) bronchoscopy for PPLs.

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and Web of Sciences databases were searched up to and including August 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the performance of VBNA compared with an NVBNA group. Results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with accompanying 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results:

Six RCTs with 1626 patients were included. The overall diagnostic rate was similar in the VBNA (74.17%) and NVBNA (69.51%) groups, with risk ratio of 1.07 (95% CI: 0.98–1.17). However, in the VBNA group, the total examination time was significantly shorter (MD = −3.94 min, 95% CI: −6.57 to −1.36; p = 0.003) than in the NVBNA group. VBNA had superior diagnostic yield than NVBNA for PPLs ⩽ 20 mm (RR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.05–1.32). In addition, diagnostic yield according to nature of lesion, lesion location in the lung lobe, distance from the hilum, bronchus sign and complications were similar between VBNA and NVBNA groups.

Conclusion:

VBNA bronchoscopy did not increase overall diagnostic yield in patients with PPLs compared with NVBNA bronchoscopy. The superiority of VBNA over NVBNA was evident among patients with PPLs ⩽ 20 mm. Future multicenter RCTs are needed for further investigation. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
The Complicated Relationship Between the Dark Triad and Emotional Intelligence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Walker Sarah A. , Double Kit S. , Birney Damian P.
Published: May 2021

The study of emotional intelligence (EI) and its relationship with the dark triad has emerged as a popular research area. However, the complex nature of the dark triad and EI, including multiple measures for assessment, has led to inconsistent findings. A systematic review was conducted to focus on the multifaceted nature of the dark triad traits. Included studies must have been conducted with adult samples using standardized EI and dark triad measures. Forty-eight studies were identified; all bar one reported overall negative associations between the dark triad and EI. These associations were more complicated than expected. Further examination found these relationships significantly differed when examined at the facet level. Our results highlight that future research requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach.
The role of liver steatosis as measured with transient elastography and transaminases on hard clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Campos-Varela Isabel , Villagrasa Ares , Simon-Talero Macarena , Riveiro-Barciela Mar , Ventura-Cots Meritxell , Aguilera-Castro Lara , Alvarez-Lopez Patricia , Nordahl Emilie A , Anton Adrian , Bañares Juan , Barber Claudia , Barreira-Diaz Ana , Biagetti Betina , Camps-Relats Laura , Ciudin Andrea , Cocera Raul , Dopazo Cristina , Fernandez Andrea , Jimenez Cesar , Jimenez Maria M , Jofra Mariona , Gil Clara , Gomez-Gavara Concepción , Guanozzi Danila , Guevara Jorge A , Lobo Beatriz , Malagelada Carolina , Martinez-Camprecios Joan , Mayorga Luis , Miret Enric , Pando Elizabeth , Pérez-Lopez Ana , Pigrau Marc , Prio Alba , Rivera-Esteban Jesus M , Romero Alba , Tasayco Stephanie , Vidal-Gonzalez Judit , Vidal Laura , Minguez Beatriz , Augustin Salvador , Genesca Joan
Published: May 2021

Liver injury has been widely described in patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to study the effect of liver biochemistry alterations, previous liver disease, and the value of liver elastography on hard clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients. We conducted a single-center prospective observational study in 370 consecutive patients admitted for polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia. Clinical and laboratory data were collected at baseline and liver parameters and clinical events recorded during follow-up. Transient elastography [with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) measurements] was performed at admission in 98 patients. All patients were followed up until day 28 or death. The two main outcomes of the study were 28-day mortality and the occurrence of the composite endpoint intensive care unit (ICU) admission and/or death. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were elevated at admission in 130 patients (35%) and 167 (45%) patients, respectively. Overall, 14.6% of patients presented the composite endpoint ICU and/or death. Neither ALT elevations, prior liver disease, liver stiffness nor liver steatosis (assessed with CAP) had any effect on outcomes. However, patients with abnormal baseline AST had a higher occurrence of the composite ICU/death (21% versus 9.5%, p = 0.002). Patients ⩾65 years and with an AST level > 50 U/ml at admission had a significantly higher risk of ICU and/or death than those with AST ⩽ 50 U/ml (50% versus 13.3%, p < 0.001). In conclusion, mild liver damage is prevalent in COVID-19 patients, but neither ALT elevation nor liver steatosis influenced hard clinical outcomes. Elevated baseline AST is a strong predictor of hard outcomes, especially in patients ⩾65 years.
Economic burden and cost-effectiveness of therapies for Clostridiodes difficile infection: a narrative review
Authors: Gupta Akshita , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin N.
Published: May 2021

Clostridioides difficile is the most common cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea. Disease complications as well as recurrent infections contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality. Over the past decades, there has been a rapid increase in the incidence of C. difficile infection (CDI), with a rise in the number of community-acquired cases. CDI has a profound economic impact on both the healthcare system and patients, secondary to recurrences, hospitalization, prolonged length of stay, cost of treatment, and indirect societal costs. With emergence of newer treatment options, the standard of care is shifting from metronidazole and vancomycin towards fidaxomicin and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), which despite being more expensive, are more efficacious in preventing recurrences and hence overall are more beneficial forms of therapy per cost-effectiveness analyses. Data regarding preferred route of FMT, timing of FMT, and non-conventional therapies such as bezlotoxumab is scant. There is a need for further studies to elucidate the true attributable costs of CDI as well as continued cost-effectiveness research to reduce the economic burden associated with the disease and improve clinical practice.