bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes After Primary Hip Arthroscopy in Athletes Older Than 40 Years Compared With Nonathletes
Authors: Saks Benjamin R. , Monahan Peter F. , Hawkins Gavin C. , Maldonado David R. , Jimenez Andrew E. , Sabetian Payam W. , Lall Ajay C. , Domb Benjamin G.
Published: June 2022

Background:

Master athletes (MAs), or athletes older than 40 years, make up a patient population whose outcomes after primary arthroscopic hip surgery are largely unknown.

Purpose:

To report minimum 2-year outcomes of MAs after primary hip arthroscopy and compare their results to a propensity-matched nonathlete (NA) control group.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data were prospectively collected between February 2008 and April 2019 and retrospectively reviewed for all patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy. Patients were included if they were older than 40 years and had preoperative data for the modified Harris Hip Score, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Hip Outcome Score–Sports Specific Subscale, and visual analog scale score for pain. MAs reported participating in organized sports competition within 1 year before surgery and were propensity matched to a control group of patients who did not report participating in organized sports competition (NAs). Patient characteristics, radiographic and intraoperative findings, surgical procedures performed, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were reported and compared between the groups. The rates of achieving the minimal clinically important difference and maximum outcome improvement satisfaction threshold were recorded.

Results:

A total of 366 hips were eligible; 328 (89.6%) had adequate follow-up data. 328 patients met inclusion criteria but 88 were not included due to the restrictions of the propensity score match ratio. Of these, 80 hips (76 patients) were classified as MAs (mean age, 48.9 ± 6.2 years) and were propensity matched 1:2 to an NA control group. Groups were comparable for baseline demographic and radiographic parameters, intraoperative findings, and procedures performed. MAs had significantly better baseline and minimum 2-year PROM scores ( P < .05), higher satisfaction ( P = .01), and higher rates of achieving clinically meaningful improvement across all the outcome tools used ( P < .05). MAs, when compared with NAs, had lower rates of secondary arthroscopy (0% vs 7.5%, respectively; P = .001) and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (12.5% vs 26.9%, respectively; P = .011).

Conclusion:

MAs demonstrated favorable outcomes after primary hip arthroscopy. When compared with a propensity score–matched control group of NA patients, MAs demonstrated better preoperative and postoperative PROMs, higher rates of clinically meaningful improvement, and lower rates of secondary arthroscopy and conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Absolute improvements in PROM scores were similar between the groups.
Celecoxib, Beyond Anti-inflammation, Alleviates Tendon-Derived Stem Cell Senescence in Degenerative Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Authors: Cai Zhuochang , Zhang Yao , Liu Shen , Liu Xudong
Published: June 2022

Background:

Degenerative rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT) is associated with the senescence of tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been demonstrated to alleviate age-associated inflammation (inflamm-aging)–induced cellular senescence of skeletal stem/progenitor cells. However, whether they can alleviate degenerative RCT through reducing inflamm-aging–related TDSC senescence is still unknown.

Purpose:

To assess whether celecoxib can prevent the inflamm-aging–related cellular senescence of TDSCs.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

TDSCs were isolated from degenerative RCT tendons (S-TDSCs) and healthy hamstring tendons (Y-TDSCs), and the cellular senescence of TDSCs was evaluated. Thereafter, the senescent TDSC-conditioned medium (SEN-CM) was collected to culture Y-TDSCs with or without celecoxib. The effects of celecoxib on TDSC senescence were examined by assaying the expression of aging-related markers. Furthermore, the level of the NF-κB pathway was determined by Western blot analysis to explore the underlying mechanism. Its effects on preventing dysfunction of inflamm-aging–induced senescent TDSCs were also determined using multilineage differentiation assay.

Results:

S-TDSCs showed increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity and enhanced expression of γ-H2AX, p21CIP1A, p16INK4A, and senescence-associated secretory phenotype factors. SEN-CM accelerated the senescence progress of Y-TDSCs, resulting in an increase in senescence markers. To some extent, celecoxib treatment could prevent the detrimental effects of inflamm-aging on Y-TDSCs. The level of the NF-κB pathway was increased in the SEN-CM group but decreased with the use of celecoxib. Moreover, the reduced senescence of TDSCs resulted in preservation of the TDSC tenogenic potential.

Conclusion:

Celecoxib treatment can prevent inflamm-aging–induced TDSC senescence, which holds potential for alleviating the development of degenerative RCT.

Clinical Relevance:

In addition to relieving the symptoms of patients with RCT, treatment with celecoxib, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, may defer the development of RCT and prevent rotator cuff tears by delaying TDSC senescence.
Glenoid Bone Loss Directly Affects Hill-Sachs Morphology: An Advanced 3-Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Peebles Liam A. , Golijanin Petar , Peebles Annalise M. , Douglass Brenton W. , Arner Justin W. , Provencher Matthew T.
Published: June 2022

Background:

While the glenoid track concept presents a useful prediction for recurrent glenohumeral instability, little is known about the humeral head bony architecture as it relates to glenoid erosion in the setting of bipolar bone loss.

Purpose:

To (1) qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the interplay between glenoid bone loss (GBL) and Hill-Sachs lesions (HSLs) in a cohort of patients with anterior instability using 3-dimensional imaging software and (2) assess the relationships between GBL and HSL characteristics.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients were identified who had anterior shoulder instability with a minimum 5% GBL and evidence of HSL confirmed on computed tomography. Unilateral 3-dimensional models of the ipsilateral proximal humeral head and en face sagittal oblique view of the glenoid were reconstructed using MIMICS software (Materialise NV). GBL surface area, width, defect length, and glenoid track width were quantified. The volume, surface area, width, and depth of identified HSLs were quantified with their location (medial, superior, and inferior extent) on the humeral head. Severity of GBL was defined as percentage glenoid bone surface area loss and categorized as low grade (5%-10%), moderate grade (>10% to 20%), high grade (>20% to 30%), and extensive (>30%). Analysis of variance was then computed to determine significance ( P < .05) between severity of GBL and associated HSL parameters.

Results:

In total, 100 patients met inclusion criteria (mean age, 27.9 years; range, 18-43 years), which included 58 right shoulders and 42 left shoulders (84 male, 16 female). Among groups, there were 32 patients with low-grade GBL (mean GBL = 6.1%), 38 with moderate grade (mean GBL = 16.2%), 17 with high grade (mean GBL = 23.7%), and 13 with extensive (mean GBL = 34.0%), with an overall mean GBL of 18.1% (range, 5%-39%). Patients with 5%-10% GBL had significantly narrower HSLs (average and maximum width; P < .03) and deeper HSLs (average depth; P = .002) as compared with all other GBL groups, while greater GBL was associated with wider and shallower HSLs. GBL width, percentage width loss, defect length, and glenoid track width all significantly differed across the 4 GBL groups ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

HSLs had significantly different morphological characteristics depending on the severity of GBL, indicating that GBL was directly related to the characteristics of HSLs. Patients presenting with smaller glenoid defects had significantly narrower and deeper HSLs with less humeral head surface area loss, while greater GBL was associated with wider and shallower HSLs.
‘Make the Most of the Situation’. Older Adults’ Experiences during COVID-19: A Longitudinal, Qualitative Study
Authors: Brooks Emily , Mohammadi Somayyeh , Mortenson W. Ben , Backman Catherine L. , Tsukura Chihori , Rash Isabelle , Chan Janice , Miller William C.
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have been associated with increased social isolation and reduced participation in older adults. This longitudinal qualitative study drew on life course theory to analyse data from a series of four sequential semi-structured interviews conducted between May 2020–February 2021 with adults aged 65+ ( n = 12) to explore older adults’ experiences adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic. We identified three themes: (1) Struggling ‘You realize how much you lost’ describes how older adults lost freedoms, social connections and activities; (2) Adapting ‘whatever happens, happens, I’ll do my best’, revealing how older adults tried to maintain well-being, participation and connection; and (3) Appreciating ‘enjoy what you have’, exploring how older adults found pleasure and contentment. Engagement in meaningful activities and high-quality social interactions supported well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic for older adults. This finding highlights the need for policies and services to promote engagement during longstanding global crises.
“Extremely Creepy, but Nothing he did was Illegal”: Charging Patterns During Prearrest Screening
Authors: Lowrey-Kinberg Belén , Bowman Rachel , Gould Jon
Published: June 2022

We examine an approach to case screening where prosecutors screen requests for charges before a felony arrest is made. In 2016, Franklin County prosecutors declined to authorize arrests in 17.5% of felony cases. Declination rates, however, varied widely between offense types. Prosecutors most commonly did not authorize an arrest due to insufficient evidence, no crime having occurred, or follow-up needed. Among other findings, the cases of Black defendants, as compared to White defendants, were more likely to be declined due to insufficient evidence and additional follow-up needed. We conclude that prearrest screening by prosecutors can filter out weak cases early, increasing efficiency for the prosecutor’s office, saving the government money, and minimizing the impact of a “bad” arrest on a defendant.
Synthesis of quaternary copolymerized fluorine-containing polyimides with good thermal properties and low dielectric constant
Authors: Zhao Lu , Ma Xiangjun , Huang Qilong , Lu Chonghao , Cao Xianwu
Published: June 2022

Novel fluorine-containing polyimides were synthesized through copolymerization by using 2,3,3′,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (α-BPDA) and 4,4′-(4,4′-isopropydenediphenox-y) bis-(phthalic anhydride) (BPADA) as dianhydrides and 4,4′-oxydianiline (ODA) and 2,2 - Bis [4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenyl]-hexafluoropropanane (HFBAPP) as diamines. Noncoplanar structure, flexible ether bond, and trifluoromethyl give the polyimide good thermoplastic, solubility, and heat resistance. The glass transition temperatures of polyimide films are 232.5°C∼262.2°C, the 5% weight loss temperatures are 521.5°C∼531.0°C, and the residual mass is more than 50% as heating to 800°C. With the increase of HFBAPP content in diamine, the dielectric constant of the material decreases from 3.21 to 2.78, and the dielectric loss decreases from 0.00962 to 0.00687 at 1 MHz, which greatly improves the dielectric properties of the material.
Adaptive neural tracking control of constrained waverider vehicles via single-network adaptive dynamic programming
Authors: Qi Qiang , Bu Xiangwei , Jiang Baoxu
Published: June 2022

The approximate optimization is considered though adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) method for waverider vehicles (WVs). This method can achieve the stability, robustness, and near optimization of the tracking problem for WVs. First, baseline controllers are designed for both velocity subsystem and altitude subsystem via neural network approximation. Meantime, novel auxiliary systems are implemented to compensate the desired control law with actuator saturation. Then, transient optimal controllers are developed using single-network adaptive critic method. Moreover, the stability of closed-loop systems, and the convergence of both the tracking error and the auxiliary system are theoretically proved. Finally, the superiority of the proposed method is proved via compared simulation results.
Multiple imputation for cause-specific Cox models: Assessing methods for estimation and prediction
Authors: Bonneville Edouard F , Resche-Rigon Matthieu , Schetelig Johannes , Putter Hein , de Wreede Liesbeth C
Published: June 2022

In studies analyzing competing time-to-event outcomes, interest often lies in both estimating the effects of baseline covariates on the cause-specific hazards and predicting cumulative incidence functions. When missing values occur in these baseline covariates, they may be discarded as part of a complete-case analysis or multiply imputed. In the latter case, the imputations may be performed either compatibly with a substantive model pre-specified as a cause-specific Cox model [substantive model compatible fully conditional specification (SMC-FCS)], or approximately so [multivariate imputation by chained equations (MICE)]. In a large simulation study, we assessed the performance of these three different methods in terms of estimating cause-specific regression coefficients and predicting cumulative incidence functions. Concerning regression coefficients, results provide further support for use of SMC-FCS over MICE, particularly when covariate effects are large and the baseline hazards of the competing events are substantially different. Complete-case analysis also shows adequate performance in settings where missingness is not outcome dependent. With regard to cumulative incidence prediction, SMC-FCS and MICE are performed more similarly, as also evidenced in the illustrative analysis of competing outcomes following a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The findings are discussed alongside recommendations for practising statisticians.
MISL: Multiple imputation by super learning
Authors: Carpenito Thomas , Manjourides Justin
Published: June 2022

Multiple imputation techniques are commonly used when data are missing, however, there are many options one can consider. Multivariate imputation by chained equations is a popular method for generating imputations but relies on specifying models when imputing missing values. In this work, we introduce multiple imputation by super learning, an update to the multivariate imputation by chained equations method to generate imputations with ensemble learning. Ensemble methodologies have recently gained attention for use in inference and prediction as they optimally combine a variety of user-specified parametric and non-parametric models and perform well when estimating complex functions, including those with interaction terms. Through two simulations we compare inferences made using the multiple imputation by super learning approach to those made with other commonly used multiple imputation methods and demonstrate multiple imputation by super learning as a superior option when considering characteristics such as bias, confidence interval coverage rate, and confidence interval width.
Alpha Industrial Services Limited: Managing Safety Affordably
Authors: Awan Amer , Afghan Nasir
Published: June 2022

Industrial radiography (IR) is an important application of radiation in which an ionizing radiation source is used to detect any cracks or hidden flaws within machinery and welding joints. A category-2 radioactive source (if not shielded properly, it can cause serious and potentially terminal health consequences) is used in IR. It can cause severe detrimental effects like burns if not used properly. There have been many IR related accidents worldwide which are also available on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) website. This case is written on two isolated events that happened in Pakistan within the same company (name changed) engaged in IR services within Pakistan. Alpha Industrial Services Limited’s (AISL) higher management was dealing with a prevailing financial crunch, and the company was struggling to maintain its quality of services and safety at an affordable cost. The leadership of the company made several decisions to manage the financial crisis.
When sport is taken to extremes: A sociohistorical analysis of sport addiction
Authors: Larocque Emmanuelle , Moreau Nicolas
Published: June 2022

In the 1970s, the concept of sport addiction appeared in scientific literature, warning of the addictive properties of exercise when taken to extremes. Appearing in over 6500 peer-reviewed articles in Google Scholar from 1979 to 2017, this construct is of interest to the fields of mental health and sport sociology as it provides a heuristic case to consider the conditions which allow for a category-in-the-making to gain meaning despite its absence from leading classification systems. Using Hacking's framework of ecological niches, this review of literature provides a critical examination of “sport addiction” and aims to investigate the driving forces and the means by which social actors from the scientific community negotiate the landscape and boundaries of this emerging disorder. The results highlight the prominence of psychology in the diffusion of the construct and the reticence of the medical world to legitimize it as a mental health category.
From Institutions to Inclusion: How Children with Disabilities Gained Educational Rights in the U.S
Authors: Nighswander Michelle L. , Blair Patricia A.
Published: June 2022

Children with disabilities or specialized healthcare needs were legally excluded from U.S. public education for decades, but in the last 45 years, they have gained tremendous ground in receiving comparable educational opportunities as their non-disabled peers. The purpose of this article is to provide a historical review of the educational laws which affect children with disabilities, so that school nurses who work with these children understand the impact of these laws and the resulting changes in school nursing practice. Review of the United States’ educational history provides school nurses the working background necessary to recognize their key role to support the education of children with disabilities and to advocate for these children's educational rights with their parents, school officials and policy makers.
Lack of Access to Rifaximin Upon Hospital Discharge Is Frequent and Results in Increased Hospitalizations for Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Stoll Ann Marie , Guido Maria , Pence Alicia , Gentene Anthony J.
Published: June 2022

Background

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complication of cirrhosis. Rifaximin, added to lactulose, effectively maintains remission and reduces hospitalizations from HE compared with lactulose alone. Although the clinical evidence supports the use of rifaximin, concerns remain regarding the financial implications and subsequent impact on medication access and outcomes.

Objective

The goal of this study was to determine whether medication access to rifaximin at hospital discharge reduces readmission and office visits related to HE.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in compliance with local institutional review board including cirrhotic patients discharged with a rifaximin prescription for HE. Patients were stratified into 2 groups: those able to obtain rifaximin and those unable to obtain rifaximin upon discharge. The primary outcome was to evaluate the rate of HE recurrence in each group as defined as a composite of readmission or office visit for acute HE within 12 months of discharge.

Results

Access to rifaximin significantly reduced the risk of hospital admission and office visit for acute HE over 12 months. A hospitalization or office visit occurred in 24.5% of patients in the medication access group compared with 50% in the group without medication access. Only 58% of patients had access to rifaximin at discharge.

Conclusion and Relevance

Rifaximin use was associated with significantly reduced risk of hospitalization and office visits for HE. At discharge, 42% of patients did not have access to rifaximin regardless of being prescribed the medication, identifying that copay is a significant barrier in allowing patients to have access to rifaximin.
The Effect of Peer-Led Navigation Approach as a Form of Task Shifting in Promoting Cervical Cancer Screening Knowledge, Intention, and Practices Among Urban Women in Tanzania: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mboineki Joanes Faustine , Wang Panpan , Dhakal Kamala , Getu Mikiyas Amare , Chen Changying
Published: June 2022

Background

Even though the government’s priorities in preventing cervical cancer are implemented in urban areas, the screening rate remains unsatisfactory at 6%, compared to 70% recommended by the world health organization. The ongoing public health education has not resulted in sufficient screening rates. The study aims to assess peer-led navigation (PLNav) in promoting cervical cancer screening knowledge, intention, and practices among urban women in Tanzania. Since PLNav is the form of task shifting, it involves delegating cervical-cancer-related tasks from healthcare professionals to community health workers (CHWs).

Methods

It is a community-based randomized controlled trial conducted in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania March-Sept 2020. The PLNav involved the CHWs delivering health education, counselling and navigation assistance to community women (COMW). The CHWs help women who have never undergone cervical cancer screening (CCS) and those who have undergone CCS but with a precancerous cervical lesion to overcome screening barriers. The data related to PLNav were analyzed by descriptive statistics, an independent-samples t-test, repeated measures ANOVA and linear regression.

Results

The repeated measures ANOVA across time showed that PLNav intervention on mean knowledge score changes was statistically significant in the intervention group compared with the control group’s usual care, [F (1, 43) = 56.9, P < .001]. At the six-month follow-up, 32 (72.7%) out of 44 participants from the intervention group had screened for cervical cancer, and only one participant (2.3%) from the control group screened. The PLNav intervention on CCS uptake changes was statistically significant in the intervention group compared with usual care in the control group [F (1, 43) = 100.4, P < .001]. The effect of time on CCS uptake in the intervention and control groups was statistically significant [F (1.64, 70.62) = 73.4, P < .001].

Conclusion

Peer-led navigation (PLNav) was effective in promoting cervical cancer screening knowledge, intention, and uptake.
On Generative and Generational Interlinkages and Intersections: Interdisciplinarity in Humanities, Culture, and Art
Authors: van der Tuin Iris , Pekal Amy
Published: June 2022

This interview looks critically at how the humanities do not just study works of culture but work together with artists. Within the practice of a truly interdisciplinary approach, “artistic research” finds its way into the discussion as it operates at the intersection of many disciplines and as its transversal qualities continuously produce excess to maintain complexity within the given research context. These positions implicate us as researchers in culture and we work with as well as reflect on how these cultures always/already have an impact on our research, teaching, and learning.
Ethical Implications of Using Research-Based Theater to Challenge Hegemonic Narratives About Mental Health
Authors: Spring Lauren
Published: June 2022

Many health researchers have started to see the benefits of partnering with playwrights to use theater as a tool to analyze and present complex findings. Such projects about mental health, however, remain few and far between and are especially fraught. This article argues that research-based theater can be an ideal tool for exploring and sharing counter-hegemonic “mad stories”—especially if the plays created can help interrupt, among other things, problematic biomedical narratives about individualized approaches to supporting those who are suffering. This article also incorporates excerpts from the script the author wrote as part of her doctoral thesis project about military trauma to highlight how, guided by mad theory and mad aesthetics, she has creatively woven some of the weightiest ethical conundrums encountered during the research and development process into the play itself, so that, their nuance and magnitude become a critical component of the story being presented.
Civil war as a social process: actors and dynamics from pre- to post-war
Authors: Shesterinina Anastasia
Published: June 2022

What accounts for overarching trajectories of civil wars? This article develops an account of civil war as a social process that connects dynamics of conflict from pre- to post-war periods through evolving interactions between nonstate, state, civilian, and external actors involved. It traces these dynamics to the mobilization and organization of nascent nonstate armed groups before the war, which can induce state repression and in some settings escalation of tensions through radicalization of actors, militarization of tactics, and polarization of societies, propelled by internal divisions and external support. Whether armed groups form from a small, clandestine core of dedicated recruits, broader networks, social movements, and/or fragmentation within the regime has consequences for their internal and external relations during the war. However, not only path-dependent but also endogenous dynamics shape overarching trajectories of civil wars. During the war, armed groups develop cohesion and fragment in the context of evolving internal politics, including socialization of fighters, institution-building in the areas that they control, which civilians can collectively resist, competition and cooperation with other nonstate and state forces, and external influence. After the war, armed groups transform to participate in continuing conflict and violence in different ways in interaction with multiple actors. This analysis highlights the contingency of civil wars and suggests that future research should focus on how relevant actors form and transform as they relate to one another to understand linkages between conflict dynamics over time and on continuities and discontinuities in these dynamics to grasp overarching trajectories of civil wars.
Political group formation in the European parliament: Negotiating democracy and gender
Authors: Ahrens Petra , Kantola Johanna
Published: June 2022

Political group formation in the European Parliament (EP) after European elections is a core feature of supranational party politics. The research objective of this article is to scrutinise democratic practices and the role of values, more specifically gender equality, in this political group formation. Complementing extant literature, this article engages with gendered political group formation as a dynamic process consisting of three intertwined layers, which are assessed by analysing formal and informal institutions around democracy and gender. The article draws on a unique data set of 130 interviews with MEPs, political group and parliamentary staff conducted in 2018–2020. The key findings of the article show that gender plays a role in each layer of political group formation, yet there are clear differences between political groups. By deciphering the reasons behind these differences, the article enhances the understanding of the political dynamics and struggles within the political groups.
Evaluation of social cognition, autistic traits, and dysmorphology in comorbid specific learning disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Ozbaran Nazli Burcu , Ozyasar Senay Celenay , Dogan Nurhak , Kafali Helin Yilmaz , Isik Esra , Satar Aysegul , Kose Sezen , Atik Tahir , Cogulu Ozgur
Published: June 2022

Research on areas such as social cognition, autistic traits, and minor physical anomalies in comorbid Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is limited. In this study, we compared these areas in children aged between 8 and 14 with comorbid SLD and ADHD and their typically developed peers. Emotion recognition and social cognition were evaluated by Faces Test, Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test, Comprehension Test, and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale. Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire and Social Responsiveness Scale were used for screening of autism spectrum disorder in children. Furthermore, autistic traits in parents were measured by Autism-Spectrum Quotient. The MPAs of all the subjects were determined by pediatric geneticists. We detected that children with comorbid SLD and ADHD performed worse than controls in all social cognition tests and maternal AQ score had a strong correlation with the Faces Test, DERS, and SRS scores. Also, the total ASSQ score in the comorbid SLD and ADHD group was significantly higher than controls. Finally, MPAs were significantly more frequent in the comorbid SLD and ADHD group. Impairment in social cognition and evaluation of autistic traits and dysmorphology in children with comorbid SLD and ADHD may provide useful information on neurodevelopmental disorders.
The effects of Processing Instruction on the acquisition and processing of grammatical gender in German
Authors: Henry Nick
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the effects of Processing Instruction (PI) on the acquisition of grammatical gender and gender-marked pronouns in German. PI was compared to Traditional Instruction, i.e. a traditional, vocabulary-oriented approach using color cues (TI) and a Categorization and Memorization task (CM). The results of an immediate posttest showed that the PI group outperformed both TI and CM with respect to gender assignment on both a gender selection task and a writing task. The PI group also scored higher and responded faster than the TI and CM groups on a comprehension task that required accurate processing of gender-marked pronouns. However, differences between the three groups were not sustained on delayed posttests. These results extend the findings of previous research on PI (e.g. Benati, 2004) by showing that PI can be applied to target forms that are low in communicative value and must be learned item-by-item like grammatical gender in German. Results also lend support to psycholinguistic research that suggests that second language (L2) learners have difficulty acquiring grammatical gender because they do not process nouns together with gender information (Arnon & Ramscar, 2012).
The civic crime of corruption: Citizen networks and public sector bribery in the non-democracies
Authors: Zaloznaya Marina
Published: June 2022

In the Global North, corruption is considered incompatible with civic health: scholars argue that it decreases social trust, atomizes communities, and discourages active citizenship. Using the first-ever national dataset from Russia with behavioral measures of corruption, ego-centric networks, and political participation, this article develops an alternative theory of corruption’s impact on civic life in societies where freedoms of association are limited. Analyses of these new data suggest that: (1) Russian bribe-givers are embedded in outward-oriented and mobilizable personal networks, supportive of civic connectivity; and (2) Russian bribe-givers are significantly more likely than law-abiding citizens to mobilize others when pushing back against the state. Counterintuitively, then, in non-democracies, corruption in the public sector sustains the kind of social networks that underlie civic culture.
Learning danger: Cultural difference and the limits of trust in dangerous fieldworks
Authors: Rudi Axel
Published: June 2022

Reflecting on personal experiences from conducting fieldwork in Iraqi and Turkish Kurdistan between 2015 and 2017, the article supplements existing literature on how to navigate dangerous fieldwork by considering the limits of trust with regards to estimating safety, and the necessity of learning local definitions of danger. Trust, the article shows, may provide a false sense of security, particularly when working with revolutionary organizations, due to the socio-cultural differences in attitudes toward what qualifies as danger. Similarly, the article argues that dangers connected with uncertainty may also be better understood through analyzing people’s cultural responses. To better grasp these emic attitudes, the article advocates for taking “steps of faith,” supplemented by an ongoing reflexive process, aimed at assimilating local practices. To conclude, the article argues that an attentiveness to the skills needed to navigate a dangerous terrain, may assist in moving the field away from a scientistic “securitization of research.”
Speaking the unspeakable: An autoethnography exploring unintended sexism in important personal relationships
Authors: Charles Bronwyn , Johns Lise
Published: June 2022

This research explores how feminist women respond to male allies’ unintended sexism. I use a feminist autoethnographic method to document and analyze vignettes that explore interpersonal conflicts about unintended sexism. Autoethnography provides the methodology that allows me to link the personal challenges of responding to sexism in caring relationships within the broader cultural context. Three case vignettes demonstrate the processes I undertook. As a social worker, I draw upon process-oriented psychology and feminism to examine the vignettes and analyze key concepts in the experience of responding to unintended sexism. I discuss the importance of communication between social workers who are feminist and male allies when unintended sexism occurs. Finally, I examine the issue of feminists doing the majority of the work challenging sexism. In sharing my personal experiences of responding to male allies’ unintended sexism, I anticipate these stories and explorations can be helpful for social workers who are feminist or male allies concerned with communicating about unintended sexism in caring relationships.
Cinnamon Nanoparticles Loaded on Chitosan- Gelatin Nanoparticles Enhanced Burn Wound Healing in Diabetic Foot Ulcers in Rats
Authors: Hajati Ziabari Amirreza , Asadi Heris Mostafa , Mohammad Doodmani Seyed , Jahandideh Alireza , Koorehpaz Kave , Mohammadi Rahim
Published: June 2022

The objective of this work was to investigate impact of Cinnamon nanoparticles loaded on chitosan- gelatin nanoparticles on burn wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers in rat. We included sixty male rats into four groups. There were 15 animals in each group as follow: DFU group: We treated the burn wounds with normal saline (0.1 mL). DFU/SSD group: In this group, the wounds were with silver sulfadiazine 1% ointment. DFU/CGNP: In this group, the burn wounds were treated with chitosan-gelatin nanoparticles based ointment (0.05 mg/mL). DFU/CNP-CGNP group: In this group, the wounds were treated with CN-CGNPs (0.05 mg/mL). Wound area reduction measurements, biochemistry, histomorphometrical studies, hydroxyproline levels and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for caspase 3, Bcl-2, and p53 showed significant difference between rats in DFU/CNP-CGNP group in comparison with other groups ( P < .05). Accelerated repair of the wounds in DFU/CNP-CGNP group showed that local application of Cinnamon nanoparticles loaded on chitosan- gelatin nanoparticles could be taken into consideration in burn wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers.
S-allylmercapto-N-acetylcysteine protects bone cells from oxidation and improves femur microarchitecture in healthy and diabetic mice
Authors: Abu-Kheit Reem , Kotev-Emeth Shlomo , Hiram-Bab Sahar , Gabet Yankel , Savion Naphtali
Published: June 2022

Oxidative stress is involved in the deterioration of bone quality and mechanical strength in both diabetic and aging adults. Therefore, we studied the ability of the antioxidant compound, S-allylmercapto- N-acetylcysteine (ASSNAC) to protect bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) from advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) cytotoxicity and improve bone microarchitecture of adult healthy and obese/diabetic (db/db) female mice. ASSNAC effect on AGEs-treated cultured rat BMSCs was evaluated by Neutral Red and XTT cell survival and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level assays. Its effect on healthy (C57BL/6) and obese/diabetic (C57BLKS/J Leprdb+/+; db/db) female mice femur parameters, such as (1) number of adherent BMSCs, (2) percentage of CD73+/CD45− cells in bone marrow (BM), (3) glutathione level in BM cells, and (4) femur microarchitecture parameters by microcomputed tomography, was studied. ASSNAC treatment protected BMSCs by significantly decreasing AGEs-induced ROS production and increasing their cellular resistance to the cytotoxic effect of AGEs. ASSNAC treatment of healthy female mice (50 mg/kg/day; i.p.; age 12–20 weeks) significantly increased the number of BMSCs (+60%), CD73+/CD45− cells (+134%), and glutathione level (+110%) in the femur bone marrow. Furthermore, it increased the femur length (+3%), cortical diameter (+3%), and cortical areal moment of inertia (Ct.MOI; +10%) a surrogate for biomechanical strength. In db/db mice that demonstrated a compromised trabecular bone and growth plate microarchitecture, ASSNAC treatment restored the trabecular number (Tb.N, +29%), bone volume fraction (Tb.BV/TV, +130%), and growth plate primary spongiosa volumetric bone mineral density (PS-vBMD, +7%) and thickness (PS-Th, +18%). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that ASSNAC protects bone marrow cells from oxidative stress and may improve bone microarchitecture in adult healthy and diabetic female mice.
Activin receptor-like kinase 7 silencing alleviates cardiomyocyte apoptosis, cardiac fibrosis, and dysfunction in diabetic rats
Authors: Liu Lin , Zhou Xin , Zhang Qiyu , Li Li , Shang Yuanyuan , Wang Zhihao , Zhong Ming , Chen Yuguo , Zhang Wei , Tang Mengxiong
Published: June 2022

Activin receptor-like kinase 7 (ALK7) is associated with lipometabolism and insulin sensitivity. Our previous study demonstrated that ALK7 participated in high glucose-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The aim of our study was to investigate whether ALK7 plays an important role in modulating diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) and the mechanisms involved. The model of diabetes was induced in male Sprague−Dawley rats (120–140 g) by high-fat diet and intraperitoneal injections of low-dose streptozotocin (30 mg/kg). Animals were separated into four groups: control, DCM, DCM with ALK7 silencing, and DCM with vehicle control. The cardiac function was assessed by catheterization. Histopathologic analyses of collagen content and apoptosis rate, and protein analyses of ALK7, Smad2/3, Akt, Caspase3, and Bax/Bcl2 were performed. This study showed a rat model of DCM with hyperglycemia, severe insulin resistance, left ventricular dysfunction, and structural remodeling. With ALK7 silencing, the apoptotic cell death (apoptosis rate assessed by TUNEL, ratio of Bax/Bcl2 and expression of cleaved Caspase3), fibrosis areas, and Collagen I-to-III ratio decreased significantly. The insulin resistance and diastolic dysfunction were also ameliorated by ALK7 silencing. Furthermore, the depressed phosphorylation of Akt was restored while elevated phosphorylation of Smad2/3 decreased after the silencing of ALK7. The results suggest ALK7 silencing plays a protective role in DCM and may serve as a potential target for the treatment of human DCM.
Curcumin attenuates vascular calcification via the exosomal miR-92b-3p/KLF4 axis
Authors: Chen Chuanzhen , Li Yaodong , Lu Hailin , Liu Kai , Jiang Wenhong , Zhang Zhanman , Qin Xiao
Published: June 2022

Vascular calcification (VC) is the most widespread pathological change in diseases of the vascular system. However, we do not have a good understanding of the molecular mechanisms and effective therapeutic approaches for VC. Curcumin (CUR) is a natural polyphenolic compound that has hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects on the cardiovascular system. Exosomes are known to have extensive miRNAs for intercellular regulation. This study investigated whether CUR attenuates VC by affecting the secretion of exosomal miRNAs. Calcification models were established in vivo and in vitro using vitamin D3 and β-glycerophosphate, respectively. Appropriate therapeutic concentrations of CUR were detected on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) using a cell counting kit 8. Exosomes were extracted by super speed centrifugation from the supernatant of cultured VSMCs and identified by transmission electron microscopy and particle size analysis. Functional and phenotypic experiments were performed in vitro to verify the effects of CUR and exosomes secreted by VSMCs treated with CUR on calcified VSMCs. Compared with the calcified control group, both CUR and exosomes secreted by VSMCs after CUR intervention attenuated calcification in VSMCs. Real-Time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) experiments showed that miR-92b-3p, which is important for alleviating VC, was expressed highly in both VSMCs and exosomes after CUR intervention. The mimic miR-92b-3p significantly decreased the expression of transcription factor KLF4 and osteogenic factor RUNX2 in VSMCs, while the inhibitor miR-92b-3p had the opposite effect. Based on bioinformatics databases and dual luciferase experiments, the prospective target of miR-92b-3p was determined to be KLF4. Both mRNA and protein of RUNX2 were decreased and increased in VSMCs by inhibiting and overexpressing of KLF4, respectively. In addition, in the rat calcification models, CUR attenuated vitamin D3-induced VC by increasing miR-92b-3p expression and decreasing KLF4 expression in the aorta. In conclusion, our study suggests that CUR attenuates vascular calcification via the exosomal miR-92b-3p/KLF4 axis.
Bioactive, full-length parathyroid hormone delivered using an adeno-associated viral vector
Authors: Burr Alexandra M , Zuckerman Pamela Cabahug , Castillo Alesha B , Partridge Nicola C , Parekkadan Biju
Published: June 2022

Delivering the parathyroid hormone (PTH) gene has been attempted preclinically in a handful of studies, but delivering full-length PTH (1–84) using adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors has not. Given the difficulty in achieving therapeutic levels of secreted proteins using gene therapy, this study seeks to determine the feasibility of doing so with PTH. An AAV vector was used to deliver human PTH driven by a strong promoter. We demonstrate the ability to secrete full-length PTH from various cell types in vitro. PTH secretion from hepatocytes was measured over time and a fluorescent marker was used to compare the secretion rate of PTH in various cell types. Potency was measured by the ability of PTH to act on the PTH receptors of osteosarcoma cells and induced proliferation. PTH showed potency in vitro by inducing proliferation in two osteosarcoma cell lines. In vivo, AAV was administered systemically in immunocompromised mice which received xenografts of osteosarcoma cells. Animals that received the highest dose of AAV-PTH had higher liver and plasma concentrations of PTH. All dosing groups achieved measurable plasma concentrations of human PTH that were above the normal range. The high-dose group also had significantly larger tumors compared to control groups on the final day of the study. The tumors also showed dose–dependent differences in morphology. When looking at endocrine signaling and endogenous bone turnover, we observed a significant difference in tibial growth plate width in animals that received the high-dose AAV as well as dose–dependent changes in blood biomarkers related to PTH. This proof-of-concept study shows promise for further exploration of an AAV gene therapy to deliver full-length PTH for hypoparathyroidism. Additional investigation will determine efficacy in a disease model, but data shown establish bioactivity in well-established models of osteosarcoma.
Effects on collective behaviour and locomotor and neuromuscular response in young players by varying the length of the pitch in 11-a-side football
Authors: Nieto Sergio , Castellano Julen , Echeazarra Ibon , Fernández Eneko
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to describe the effects on collective behaviour and the physical response of young elite football players (Under 15) in the same 11 versus 11 task in three different pitch lengths (100, 75 and 50 m, LSG100, LSG75 and LSG50, respectively), keeping the width constant (60 m). The intra-team variables were: convex hull (CH), stretch index (SI), width (W), length (L) and length/width (L/W). The inter-team variables were calculated by using the 20 outfield players: CH2, W2, L2, L/W2 and DC (distance between centroids). The physical variables were: maximum speed (Vmax), number of accelerations (Acc) and decelerations (Dec) and total distance (TD). The results showed small (LSG100 > LSG75) and moderate–long differences (LSG100 > LSG50) for CH, SI and L. There was a moderate increase in DC and W2 (LSG50 > LSG75) and a moderate decrease in SI2, CH2, SI, L and CH (LSG75 > LSG50). The entropy was higher in SSG50 > LSG75 > LSG100. On a conditional level, the values showed differences between the three formats studied, showing more similarities between LSG50 and LSG100 than with LSG75. The main conclusion of the study was that the variation in the dimensions of the pitch caused a non-linear variation in the behavioural and conditional response in teams and players.
Effect of intra-session exercise sequence on the load–velocity relationship variables after a concurrent sprint interval and resistance training program
Authors: Pérez-Castilla Alejandro , García-Pinillos Felipe , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo , Ruiz-Alias Santiago A
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to examine the effects of altering the intra-session exercise sequence of a concurrent training program on the load–velocity relationship variables obtained from different compound exercises. Physically active subjects ( n = 24, age = ∼21 years) were assigned to one group that performed sprint interval training (sprints: 4–6; intensity: all-out; duration: 30 s; rest: 4 min) followed by resistance training (exercises: back squat and bench press; sets per exercise: 4–6; load: 60–80% of the one-repetition maximum; repetition in reserve: 6–1; rest: 2 min) (SIT + RT) or another group that performed the opposite sequence (RT + SIT). Exercises modes were separated by 10 min. Both groups trained three times per week over an eight-week period. The individualized load–velocity relationships were assessed before and after training through an incremental loading test during the back squat and bench press exercises and three variables were subsequently calculated: load-axis intercept ( L0), velocity-axis intercept ( v0), and area under the line ( Aline =  L0⋅ v0/2). Regardless of exercise sequence, both groups increased L0 (ES range = 0.78–0.91) and Aline (ES range = 0.50–0.55) but decreased v0 (ES range = −0.36 to −0.46) during the back squat exercise, while all load–velocity relationship variables were increased (ES range = 0.04–2.20) during the bench press exercise. The SIT + RT group showed a moderately greater bench press v0 increase compared to the RT + SIT group (ES = −1.07). These results indicate that both intra-session exercise sequences can induce comparable improvements in the load–velocity relationship variables after an eight-week concurrent training program.