bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An accurate model for free vibration of porous magneto-electro-thermo-elastic functionally graded cylindrical shells subjected to multi-field coupled loadings
Authors: Ni Yiwen , Zhu Shengbo , Sun Jiabin , Tong Zhenzhen , Zhou Zhenhuan , Xu Xinsheng , Lim Chee Wah
Published: January 2021

An accurate model for vibration of a porous magneto-electro-thermo-elastic functionally graded (METE-FG) cylindrical shell made of barium titanate (BaTiO3) and cobalt diiron tetraoxide (CoFe2O4) with magneto-electro-thermal loadings is proposed within the framework of Hamiltonian system. Four types of porosity distribution profiles in the thickness direction are considered. By introducing a new total eigenvector, the higher-order governing differential equations are transformed into a set of lower-order equations. The exact solution for free vibration of METE-FG shells can be expanded in terms of specific symplectic eigenfunctions having seven possible explicit forms. Subsequently, analytical frequency equations and vibration mode shapes for METE-FG shells with various boundary conditions are derived simultaneously. A comparison study is presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed model and very good agreement is observed. The effects of material properties and magneto-electro-thermal loadings on free vibration characteristics of METE-FG cylindrical shells are analyzed and discussed in detail.
Guidelines for the layout and tuning of piezoelectric resonant shunt with negative capacitances in terms of dynamic compliance, mobility and accelerance
Authors: Berardengo Marta , Manzoni Stefano , Thomas Olivier , Vanali Marcello
Published: January 2021

This paper addresses the vibration attenuation provided by the resonant piezoelectric shunt enhanced by means of negative capacitances. The shunt impedance is composed by one or two negative capacitances, a resistance and an inductance. It is shown that closed analytical formulations, common to all the possible connections of the negative capacitances, can be derived for the tuning of the circuit components and for the prediction of the attenuation in terms of dynamic compliance, mobility and accelerance. The paper also compares the attenuation performance provided by the two possible layouts for the electrical link between the resistance and the inductance, that are series and parallel. Furthermore, this work evidences which shunt configurations offer advantages in terms of practical implementation and the benefits provided by the use of negative capacitances in the shunt circuit. In the last part of the paper, guidelines for the use of resonant shunt are given to the reader and, finally, the theoretical results are validated by means of an experimental campaign showing that it is possible to cancel the resonance on which the resonant shunt is targeted.
Leakage detection of water pipelines based on active thermometry and FBG based quasi-distributed fiber optic temperature sensing
Authors: Li Weijie , Liu Tiejun , Xiang Huangbin
Published: January 2021

Water pipelines are the efficient and reliable way for water transportation. Leakage of pipelines can lead to tremendous waste of water resources and large economic loss. In this paper, a novel leakage detection method was proposed based on active thermometry and fiber Bragg grating (FBG) based quasi-distributed fiber optic temperature sensing. In this method, the thermal sensing cable was fabricated by coupling heating cable with quasi-distributed temperature sensors. The heat was introduced by the heating cable and the temperature response was measured by the quasi-distributed fiber optic temperature sensor concurrently. The leakage can be detected and located by identifying the local low values in the temperature profile along the pipelines. The feasibility of the proposed method was validated by finite element simulation and experimental investigation. Good agreement between simulation and experimental study was achieved. The results confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method for leakage detection.
Experiment analysis of high output pressure piezoelectric pump with straight arm wheeled check valve
Authors: He Lipeng , Wu Xiaoqiang , Zhang Zheng , Wang Zhe , Zhang Bangcheng , Cheng Guangming
Published: January 2021

Piezoelectric pumps are applied in many fields, such as chemical analysis system and fluid pumping systems. Piezoelectric pumps with high output pressure can meet the needs of more fields. This article introduces the design and fabrication of a high output pressure piezoelectric pump with straight arm wheeled check valve. In this paper, the influence of straight arm wheeled check valve on the output pressure of piezoelectric pump is deeply discussed from the aspect of energy loss. This study investigated the effect of valve arm number ( N = 2, 3,4, and 5), the valve arm width ( W = 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 mm), and the valve arm length ( L = 1.92, 2.02, and 2.12 mm) on the output pressure of piezoelectric pump. The output pressure characteristic of straight arm wheeled check valve piezoelectric pump with different valve parameters is obtained by experiment. Experimental results show that when N = 4, W = 1.0 mm, L = 2.02 mm, the output pressure of the straight arm wheeled check valve piezoelectric pump has the best output pressure of 27.41 kPa at 220 V and 85 Hz. This study provides a reference for the further application of piezoelectric pumps in fluid pumping field.
Negotiating Female Genital Cutting in a Transnational Context
Authors: Johansen R. Elise B. , Ahmed Salma A. E.
Published: January 2021

In this article, we explore migrant Somali and Sudanese women’s reflections and decision-making regarding female genital cutting in a transnational context wherein women are compelled to maneuver between contradictory social norms. These include traditional norms, which consider the practice to be associated with socially acceptable sexuality and reproduction, and international norms, which consider the practice to be a violation of sexual and reproductive rights. Our analysis builds on data from in-depth interviews with 23 women of Somali and Sudanese origin residing in Norway. Informed by three central theories of change, we categorize women along a continuum of readiness to change ranging from rebellious women eagerly pursuing the abandonment of female genital cutting and adopting international norms regarding the practice, to women supporting the practice and its traditional meanings. Ambivalent contemplators were placed in the middle of the continuum. Women’s positioning was further interlinked with social networks and perceived decision-making power.
Implementation of Palliative Care in Clinical Practice in German Units for Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Krüger William , Buchhold Britta , Nonnenberg Dennis , Neumann Thomas , Schneidewind Laila , Schmidt Christian A.
Published: January 2021

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is a curative therapy for otherwise fatal diseases, however it is associated with a considerable morbidity and mortality. In consequence, it can be assumed that a considerable percentage of patients would benefit from high-quality palliative care (PC) during their course of disease. To assess the standard of PC in German transplant centers, a questionnaire was sent out to all German centers recognized from the EBMT membership list and the annually ZKRD report (n = 52). The response rate was not as high as expected with n = 27 (51,9%), even after reminding by phone calls or by e-mails. In brief, palliative care after allogeneic stem cell transplantation shows a wide variation in Germany. This is true for structures, processes and measures. A national standard for SCT-patients has not been established so far and there are no pre-conditions concerning palliative care after alloSCT for a certification by the EBMT according the JACIE standards. There is a considerable need for a crosslinking of alloSCT with PC. Clear standards should be established by the scientific societies concerning personnel, structure and processes.
Postwar Justice in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Kutnjak Ivković Sanja , Datzer Darko , Hagan John
Published: January 2021

This article explores the perceptions of justice expressed by victims of severe violations of human rights in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) who have testified before the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) and/or the Court of BiH. In 2009, we surveyed 495 members of a victims’ association and inquired about their perceptions of postwar justice. The respondents were more likely to assess the ICTY than the Court of BiH as fair both in terms of its decisions and procedures. Compared to the perceptions of procedural justice, perceptions of distributive justice were more strongly correlated with the assessments of both courts’ overall fairness. Multivariate logistic regression models reveal that measures of procedural justice are directly related to the respondents’ evaluations of the both courts’ fairness, while demographic factors were mostly unrelated to their evaluations of the two courts. The results of our study suggest that the respondents who said that they testified at the ICTY had more positive views about both the ICTY and the Court of BiH than the respondents who said that they either testified at both courts or only at the Court of BiH.
A Systematic Review of Blinatumomab in the Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Engaging an Old Problem With New Solutions
Authors: Halford Zachery , Coalter Carli , Gresham Vanessa , Brown Tabitha
Published: January 2021

Objective:

To assess the current literature for blinatumomab in the treatment of adult and pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Data Sources:

We conducted a PubMed (inception to December 11, 2020) and ClinicalTrials.gov systematic literature search using the following terms: blinatumomab, Blincyto, lymphoblastic leukemia, and bispecific T-cell engager.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

All relevant published articles, package inserts, and meeting abstracts evaluating the use of blinatumomab in ALL were considered for inclusion.

Data Synthesis:

Blinatumomab, a first-in-class bispecific T-cell engager monoclonal antibody, facilitates cytotoxic T-cell activation and subsequent eradication of CD19-positive B cells. The confirmatory phase III TOWER trial demonstrated superior overall survival (OS) with blinatumomab compared with standard chemotherapy (7.7 months vs 4.0 months) in relapsed and refractory (R/R) B-cell ALL. In the phase II BLAST trial, blinatumomab achieved a complete measurable residual disease (MRD) response in 78% of evaluable patients, with a median OS of 36.5 months. Potentially life-threatening cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity occurred in approximately 15% and 65% of patients, respectively.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

Following initial Food and Drug Administration approval in 2014, blinatumomab gained expanded approval in pediatric patients and in Philadelphia chromosome-positive R/R ALL. In 2018, blinatumomab became the first and only drug approved for the treatment of persistent MRD in any hematologic malignancy. Emerging data demonstrate promising efficacy with blinatumomab in specific ALL settings, including frontline therapy, as a bridge to transplantation, and in “chemotherapy-free” combination regimens.

Conclusions:

Blinatumomab provides a paradigm-shifting treatment option; however, many questions surrounding optimal patient selection, sequencing, and cost-effectiveness remain.
Is It Still Worth Challenging the Status Quo? A Design Process Article With an Example Application to Australian Jockey’s Safety Vests
Authors: Giusti Gestri Lisa
Published: January 2021

Horse racing is a highly dangerous activity that imposes the compulsory wearing of jockeys’ safety vests. Although “design thinking” has gained popularity in many fields (e.g., business, health, information technology, education), product innovation is still not used widely in the design of some of the personal protective equipment available to jockeys. This article discusses about an Australian design case study on jockeys’ safety vests that used a qualitative research approach along with user experience design principles, which led to consider a revision of this framework to accommodate design dependencies in terms of a suggested dependency-based user experience design framework. Hence, this article calls for further research in this field.
Gender, Power, and Colleague Aggression in U.S. State Senates
Authors: Herrick Rebekah , Thomas Sue , Bartholomy Kate
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we present analysis of an original dataset of levels of colleague aggression among U.S. state senators, whether women senators face more of these behaviors than men, and whether numerical and positional gender inequality in state senates affects these relationships. The results indicate that, overall, colleague aggression in U.S. state senates is relatively rare, and, in general, women do not face more aggression than men. Under certain conditions, however, subsets of women senators experience more aggressive behaviors than their counterparts, male or female. Specifically, when they serve in senates with higher percentages of women or growing numbers of women, they are disproportionally targeted. There is also some evidence that women committee chairs are more likely than rank-and-file women to face this type of behavior.
Construct and Predictive Validity of an Assessment Game to Measure Honesty–Humility
Authors: Barends Ard J. , de Vries Reinout E. , van Vugt Mark
Published: January 2021

Research on commercial computer games has demonstrated that in-game behavior is related to the players’ personality profiles. However, this potential has not yet been fully utilized for personality assessments. Hence, we developed an applied (i.e., serious) assessment game to assess the Honesty–Humility personality trait. In two studies, we demonstrate that this game adequately assesses Honesty–Humility. In Study 1 ( N = 116), we demonstrate convergent validity of the assessment game with self-reported Honesty–Humility and divergent validity with the other HEXACO traits and cognitive ability. In Study 2 ( N = 287), we replicate the findings from Study 1, and also demonstrate that the assessment game shows incremental validity—beyond self-reported personality—in the prediction of cheating for financial gain, but not of counterproductive work and unethical behaviors. The findings demonstrate that assessment games are promising tools for personality measurement in applied contexts.
Examining the Short Dark Tetrad (SD4) Across Models, Correlates, and Gender
Authors: Neumann Craig S. , Jones Daniel N. , Paulhus Delroy L.
Published: January 2021

To date, no studies have examined a range of structural models of the interpersonally aversive traits tapped by the Short Dark Tetrad (SD4; narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, sadism), in conjunction with their measurement invariance (males vs. females) and how the models each predict external correlates. Using a large sample of young adults ( N = 3,975), four latent variable models were compared in terms of fit, measurement invariance, and prediction of intrapersonal and interpersonal functioning. The models tested were as follows: (Model A) confirmatory factor analytic, (Model B) bifactor, (Model C) exploratory structural equation model, and (Model D) a reduced-item confirmatory factor analytic that maximized item information. All models accounted for item covariance with good precision, although differed in incremental fit. Strong invariance held for all models, and each accounted similarly for the external correlates, highlighting differential predictive effects of the SD4 factors. The results provide support for four theoretically distinct but overlapping dark personality domains.
Deep Vein Thrombosis in the Uninjured Lower Extremity: A Retrospective Study of 1454 Patients With Lower Extremity Fractures
Authors: Qu Shuang-Wei , Cong Yu-Xuan , Wang Peng-Fei , Fei Chen , Li Zhi , Yang Kun , Shang Kun , Ke Chao , Huang Hai , Zhuang Yan , Zhang Bin-Fei , Zhang Kun
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study was to identify patients at higher risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in the uninjured lower extremity both preoperatively and postoperatively in patients with lower extremity fractures. We collected the clinical data of patients with lower extremities fractures who presented at Xi’an Honghui Hospital between 1 July, 2015 and 31 October, 2017. Doppler ultrasonography was used to diagnose the DVT. Patients were examined pre- and postoperatively. The patients were divided into thrombosis group and no thrombosis group according to the preoperative and postoperative ultrasonography results. The thrombosis group was defined as patients with DVT in the uninjured lower extremity and the no thrombosis group was defined as patients without DVT in the uninjured lower extremity. This study enrolled 1454 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The incidence of preoperative DVT in the uninjured lower extremity was 9.63% whereas the postoperative incidence was 20.29%. Age (OR = 0.965, 95 CI%: 0.954-0.977; P ≤ 0.001) and female (OR = 0.667, 95% CI: 0.451-0.986, P = 0.042) were independent risk factors for preoperative DVT in the uninjured lower extremity. Blood loss (OR = 0.997, 95 CI%: 0.995-1.000; P = 0.020), D-dimer level at admission (OR = 0.941, 95 CI%: 0.887-0.999; P = 0.045), and postoperative day 5 D-dimer level (OR = 0.889, 95 CI%: 0.819-0.965; P = 0.005), were independent risk factors for postoperative DVT in the uninjured lower extremity. For the patients with lower extremity fractures, age and female were associated with the preoperative DVT in the uninjured lower extremity. Blood loss, D-dimer at admission and postoperative day 5 D-dimer were associated with the postoperative DVT in the uninjured lower extremity.
The Co-Occurrence of Child Maltreatment and Intimate Partner Violence in Families: Effects on Children’s Externalizing Behavior Problems
Authors: Brown Samantha M. , Rhoades Galena K. , Marti C. Nathan , Lewis Terri
Published: January 2021

Children exposed to maltreatment are at risk of experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) and behavioral problems. This study examined different forms of family violence that co-occur and their relationship to children’s externalizing behaviors across developmental stages (early childhood, middle childhood, adolescence). Longitudinal data ( N = 1,987) at baseline and 18 months and 36 months post-baseline from the NSCAW II were used. Mixture modeling was employed in which latent class models estimated subgroups of children who experienced co-occurring forms of family violence; regression models estimated which subgroups of children were at risk of externalizing behaviors. Three latent classes were identified across developmental stages: high family violence, low family violence, and child physical abuse and psychological aggression. For children in early childhood, a fourth class was identified: partner and child physical abuse and child psychological aggression. Results from regression models revealed differences in externalizing scores by class membership across developmental age groups and over time. That distinct classes of child maltreatment and IPV co-occur and differentially impact children’s behavior suggests a need for strong prevention and intervention responses to address children’s dual maltreatment and IPV exposure.
The Moderating Role of Emotion: The Combinatory Effects of Positive Emotion and News Framing Techniques on Climate Change Attitudes
Authors: Jin Eunjoo , Atkinson Lucy
Published: January 2021

Based on mood management theory and the broaden-and-build theory, this study examines whether an individual’s emotional state influences the persuasive efficacy of climate change news framing techniques. To test our hypothesis, we conducted a 2 (Message Framing: thematic vs. episodic) × 2 (Emotion: positive vs. control) between-subjects factorial design experiment. Results indicate that episodically framed messages significantly decrease news believability and risk perception for people in a positive emotional state. News believability and risk perception positively mediated the effects of emotion and message frame on policy support and behavioral intention.
Analysis of first-line treatment in older patients with metastasic colorectal cancer
Authors: Martínez Arantxa Magallón , Ferrández Maria J Agustín , Rello Andrea Pinilla , Gimeno-Ballester Vicente , Pueyo Angel Escolano , Blanco Olga Pereira , Malo Sara , Sazatornil Maria R Abad
Published: January 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to analyse the effectiveness and safety of first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (CRCm) in older patients treated in a tertiary hospital.

Material and methods

This was an observational and retrospective study, including patients aged 75 years or older, with CRCm, who received chemotherapy treatment in 2017. The main variables studied were type of treatment, Progression-Free Survival (PFS), Overall Survival (OS), dose reductions, and treatment delays due to adverse events.

Results

A total of 59 patients (71.2% men) with a median age of 76 years were enrolled in this study. About 70% presented colon cancer, with the left colon being the most frequent location. They were treated with 9 different schemes, in most cases using polychemotherapy and biological agents. The median PFS and OS was 12 and 30 months, respectively. A total of 23/59 of patients started treatment at doses lower than recommended in the clinical practice guidelines. In terms of safety, 34/59 of patients had at least one dose reduction, and 30/59 suffered one treatment delay. The most frequent adverse reactions were asthenia, peripheral neuropathy, diarrhoea, and palmoplantar erythrodysesthesia.

Conclusion

Our patients presented baseline clinical characteristics similar to the general adult population, with no tumour characteristics associated with advanced age. The efficacy and toxicity were similar to those in the clinical trials, although our patients had more dose reductions. Considering the heterogeneity of patients and in the absence of clinical trials in the older population, real-life studies can be very useful.
Case of metastatic kaposi sarcoma successfully treated with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy
Authors: Cesmeci E , Guven DC , Aktas BY , Aksoy S
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an angioproliferative malignancy associated with HHV-8. It is mostly observed in patients affected by HIV and/or chronic immunosuppression, while classic KS without underlying immunosuppression are relatively rare. Systemic chemotherapy is used for advanced diseases, although there is no consensus in treatment algorithms. With the demonstration of PD-1 expression in KS, immune-checkpoint-inhibitors (ICI) emerged as possible treatment options. Notwithstanding, the data of ICIs is limited to case reports/series. Herein, we present a case of advanced classic KS, which has been treated successfully with nivolumab.

Case report

82-year-old male patient was investigated for erythematous lesions on thigh. Punch biopsy lead to KS diagnosis. Abdominal CT showed lymphadenopathies in the inguinal region. After radiotherapy follow-up, patient had shown vertebral & gastric metastases. Because of the PSA elevation patient was diagnosed with prostatic adenocarcinoma. Metastases were investigated for origin. The lesions showed no uptake in Ga-68 PET-CT, therefore accepted as KS metastases. Patient rejected chemotherapy options and consented to immunotherapy trial. Management and outcome: Nivolumab was initiated 3 mg/kg bi-weekly with 12-dose protocol. After nivolumab patient wellbeing is improved and control endoscopy shown no metastases. With these findings patient has been assessed as complete response.

Discussion

ICI on KS is still a blurred option to be included in standard regimens; but progressive understanding of PD-1 expression and its role in disease progression may be a milestone for further treatment algorithms on KS. Besides good efficacy, tolerability of ICIs could be helpful patients with comorbidities precluding the use of chemotherapy.
Ado-trastuzumab emtansine: Avoiding side-effects of traditional HER2 positive breast cancer treatment
Authors: Turshudzhyan Alla , Vredenburgh James
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Approach to cancer treatment is dictated by guidelines based on clinical research. New research continuously changes what we consider to be first-line therapy for a given type of cancer. Treatment approach becomes more complex when patient’s cultural beliefs have to be considered and incorporated into the therapy.

Case report

We are presenting a case of a patient born and raised in the former Soviet Union, whose understanding of how cancer should be treated was considerably different from what we now deem to be first-line therapy. This patient was diagnosed with metastatic HER2 positive breast cancer. Management and outcome: Having reservations about first-line therapy, she wanted to consider surgery as well as other lines of therapy. Her medical team worked on finding an alternative treatment plan that would be in line with her goals of care. Patient’s personal beliefs led her to choose a therapy that is currently a second-line: Ado-trastuzumab emtansine. She was able to achieve full remission.

Discussion

Some recent studies discussed in this case showed that first-line therapies don’t have significant progression free survival advantage when compared to the second-line therapy that our patient received. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine is a potent cytotoxic drug connected via a stable linker to the anti-HER2 antibody, trastuzumab. More studies need to be done to further investigate positive result presented in this case and whether this could be considered an alternative to current first-line therapy.
Optimization of processing parameters to control Maillard browning in ready-to-eat processed potatoes
Authors: Nascimento Revenli Fernanda do , Canteri Maria Helene Giovanetti , Rodrigues Sabrina Ávila , Bittencourt Juliana Vitória Messias
Published: January 2021

Relationship among pH, aw and Maillard browning was investigated in processed potatoes ready-to-eat during cooking and sterilization in autoclave to prevent their colors changes. Central composite rotational design was used for optimization of color (L*, a* and b*), browning index and intermediate compounds index. Reduction in the L* value and increase in the a*, b* value and browning index, indicators for Maillard browning of the processed potatoes were mitigated at pH 4.0–5.0 and aw 0.96–1.00 and accelerated at pH less than 3.0 or more than 7.0 and aw less than 0.84. Formation of intermediate compounds was intensified at pH 5.0 and aw 0.99 and mitigated at pH 7.0 and aw 0.84. Adjustment of the pH to 5.0 and keeping aw at to 0.99 were the most effective parameters of to control Maillard browning in processed potatoes ready-to-eat.
Exploring Local Initiatives to Improve the Work Environment: A Qualitative Survey in Swedish Home Care Practice
Authors: Rydenfält Christofer , Persson Roger , Arvidsson Inger , Holgersson Charlotte , Johansson Gerd , Östlund Britt , Persson Johanna
Published: January 2021

Home care for the elderly constitutes a large and growing part of the social welfare system. Though, home care work is associated with a number of work environment-related challenges, including an increased risk for injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, high levels of sick leave and staff turnover, as well as stress and high workload, research is sparse. The present study explores local initiatives to improve the work environment initiated by the home care organizations themselves, and asks whether or not these initiatives affected gender equality. A qualitative web survey was sent to Swedish home care organizations, with open questions about change initiatives intended to have a positive effect on the work environment. There is an impressive amount of local work environment-related change initiatives going on. 80 categories of change initiatives were identified in answers from 178 units. However, these change initiatives were seldom evaluated or made accessible to stakeholders outside the organization. Main themes were concerned with work organization, digitalization, and planning, which largely follows trends in society (ie, digitalization, teamwork), rather than the actual needs identified by research (eg, musculoskeletal disorders). Despite apparent gender-related challenges, little of the work was associated with gender equality. The results indicates that there is a huge learning potential as the identified initiatives can serve as inspiration for others. However, to fully take advantage of these type of initiatives, more systematic evaluations are required.
Bronchiectasis and Bronchiolectasis With Severe Herniating Pattern Associated With STAT1 Gain-of-Function Mutation: Detailed Clinicopathological Findings
Authors: Takeda Moe R , Bansal Manvi , Kamerman-Kretzmer Rory J , Church Joseph , Ji Jianling , Warren Mikako
Published: January 2021

STAT1 gain-of-function (GOF) mutations are associated with a rare autosomal dominant immunodeficiency disorder with main clinical manifestations including chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) and bronchiectasis. In addition, these patients show higher incidences of cerebral and extracerebral aneurysm, malignancies and various autoimmune conditions compared to the general population. Although previous publications have reported clinical findings in patients with STAT1 GOF mutation, they did not include histopathologic features. Herein, we describe the first case with detailed histologic findings in the lung of a 5-year-old patient with a de novo STAT1 GOF mutation, who presented with CMC and bronchiectasis. The biopsy showed severe bronchiolectasis with extensive airway dilatation and occasional disruptions. Peribronchiolar inflammation was not always present and evident mainly in areas of airway disruption; inflammation may have not been a main driver of the airway damage in this case. The airway dilatation often showed an interesting herniating pattern, possibly implying a connective tissue etiology. This case also demonstrates the diagnostic utility of whole exome sequencing as STAT1 GOF mutations are not detected by routine workup. The definitive diagnosis will lead to more specific treatments and increased surveillance for serious conditions, such as cerebral aneurysms and malignancies.
Walk A Mile in Their Shoes: Perspective-Taking as an Intervention for Difficult Customer Interactions
Authors: Lee Lindsey
Published: January 2021

An important gap in the customer mistreatment literature is understanding how employees’ affective reactions can be modified to decrease negative affective reactions. The current study draws from affective events theory to examine how customer-focused perspective-taking, or employees taking the customer’s point of view, can modify employees’ affective reactions to customer mistreatment. Withholding customer compensation was examined as an outcome of customer-focused perspective-taking, and anger and empathy were examined as mediators. A two-group (customer-focused perspective-taking: yes or no) experimental design examined the between-subjects effect of customer-focused perspective-taking among 128 frontline managers. The results indicate mediation of anger and empathy between perspective-taking and customer compensation, supporting customer-focused perspective-taking as an intervention to help employees maximize service delivery. The most important theoretical contribution of the article is showing that by interrupting the affective events theory process at a within-person level, affective reactions and episodic performance can be modified when reacting to customer mistreatment.
Antecedents and Outcomes of a Culturally Diverse Workforce in Hotels
Authors: Manoharan Ashokkumar , Gross Michael J. , Sardeshmukh Shruti R.
Published: January 2021

The topic of cultural diversity in hospitality firms has been somewhat neglected in the abundant research on cultural diversity in organizations. To overcome the gap, the purpose of the research was to examine the antecedents and outcomes of employing a culturally diverse workforce in hotels. Results from semistructured interviews showed there are four antecedents for the increase in cultural diversity and outcomes reflect significantly more benefits than challenges. Our findings suggest the benefits of cultural diversity come from the informational advantages, supporting the processing perspective. The challenges of diversity are rooted in the social categorization and in-group-out-group dynamics, lending support to the social identity theory. This study advances diversity literature based on research evidence of the various antecedents and outcomes in employing a culturally diverse workforce. Implications for diversity management are offered so the benefits may be sustained, and the challenges may be minimized in hospitality firms.
Effectiveness and tolerability of the fluocinolone acetonide implant in patients with diabetic macular edema in UAE: 12-Month results
Authors: Elbarky Ahmed Mohammed
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

To evaluate 12-month outcomes following fluocinolone acetonide (FAc 0.2 μg/day) implant in pseudophakic patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) that persists or recurs despite previous treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF) and dexamethasone implant (DEX) in a UAE population.

Methods:

A retrospective, observational, single-center, 12-month audit study, where 22 pseudophakic eyes (22 patients) with DME were treated with the FAc intravitreal implant according to licensed UAE indications. Outcome measurements at baseline and at months 1, 3, 6, and 12 included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Results:

Post-FAc implantation, mean BCVA significantly improved at 1, 3, and 12 months (+10.4 ± 16.1, +22.8 ± 13.6, and +25.5 ± 13.0 letters, respectively; p < 0.0001), with 86% of eyes gaining ⩾15 letters at month 12. Similarly, CMT reduced significantly at month 1, and stabilized thereafter at months 3–12 (−171.5 ± 72.5 µm, −240.9 ± 74.2 µm, and −246.2 ± 93.4 µm, respectively; p < 0.0001). By month 12, 64% ( n = 14/22) of eyes had a CMT below 300 µm. Only 1 eye had an IOP ⩾ 21 mmHg at baseline and month 12. Five eyes required IOP lowering drops and 1 required IOP-lowering surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

In pseudophakic patients with DME FAc implant provide a substantial functional and anatomical benefits for up to 12 months.
Treatment-naïve quiescent macular neovascularization secondary to AMD: The 2019 Young Investigator Lecture of Macula Society
Authors: Querques Giuseppe , Sacconi Riccardo , Capuano Vittorio , Carnevali Adriano , Colantuono Donato , Battista Marco , Borrelli Enrico , Miere Alexandra , Parravano Mariacristina , Costanzo Eliana , Querques Lea , Souied Eric H , Bandello Francesco
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To analyze different clinical and anatomical features in treatment-naïve non-exudative macular neovascularizations (MNVs) secondary to age-related macular disease (AMD).

Methods:

In this retrospective longitudinal study with a minimum follow-up of 1 year, 31 eyes of 28 consecutive AMD patients (mean age 75 ± 9 years) with treatment-naïve non-exudative MNV were enrolled. Patients were divided in: short-term activated MNV group (exudation before 6-month) and quiescent MNV group (per definition no exudation during a minimum 6-month follow-up) showing no or late activation during follow-up (persistently quiescent and long-term activated MNV group, respectively).

Results:

During the follow-up (mean duration: 22 ± 9 months) four eyes (13%) showed exudation before 6-month follow-up (short-term activated MNV group), whereas 21 eyes (68%) did not develop signs of exudation (persistently quiescent group), and six eyes (19%) developed exudation after the minimum 6-month follow-up (long-term activated MNV group). Monthly MNV growth rate was significantly higher in the short-term activated MNV group (growth rate of 13.30%/month), vs persistently quiescent MNV group (0.64%/month, p < 0.001) and long-term activated quiescent MNV group (1.07%/month, p < 0.001). Furthermore, at the baseline, perfusion density of short-term activated MNV group was significantly greater in comparison to persistently quiescent MNV group ( p = 0.001) and long-term activated MNV group ( p = 0.106).

Conclusion:

We reported two different patterns for subclinical MNVs: subclinical MNVs characterized by short-term activation which could represent simply a pre-exudative stage in the development of an ordinary type 1 MNV, and quiescent MNVs characterized by low rate of growth and possible long-term activation. Analysis of OCT-A features may predict short-term activation for subclinical MNV but no features could predict the long-term activation.
Prognostic factors of trochanteric bursitis in surgical-staged patients: a prospective study
Authors: Dzidzishvili Lika , Parrón Cambero Raúl , Mahillo Fernández Ignacio , Llanos Jiménez Lucía
Published: January 2021

Background:

Trochanteric bursitis or greater trochanteric pain syndrome is a common disorder and frequent cause of lateral hip pain. It can lead to severe functional impairment with increase morbidity and poor quality of life. The purpose of the current study was to identify and evaluate relationship between health-related factors, as prognostic indicators, and clinical outcomes.

Methods:

A single-centre, prospective study was conducted and 60 patients (62 hips) were included with a minimum 12 months of follow-up. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using Hip Outcome Scale, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation and Visual Analogue Scale. Radiological assessments and health-related factors were documented in an attempt to understand their validity as predictors of clinical outcomes. Complications and recurrence rates were also analyzed.

Results:

Univariate model revealed that an increased BMI ( p = 0.001; OR = 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02–1.07); number of previous corticosteroid infiltrations ( p = 0.001; OR = 1.28, 95% CI, 1.11–1.48); longer time from symptom onset to surgery ( p = 0.001; OR = 1.19; 95% CI, 1.12–1.28); smoker status ( p = 0.001; OR 11.2; 95% CI, 3.30–44.2); and the presence of prior lumbosacral fusion (LSF) ( p = 0.001; OR 13.8; 95% CI, 2.96–101); were prognostic factors predisposing for poor clinical outcomes. Among prognostic health-related factors were medical comorbidities such as emotional distress ( p < 0.001; OR 26.1; 95% CI, 5.71–192); fibromyalgia ( p = 0.026; OR 3.56; 95% CI, 1.16–11.7); and hyporthyroidism ( p = 0.005, OR = 6.55, 95% CI, 1.73–28.7).

Conclusions:

Better overall physical function was predicted by lower number of corticosteroid infiltrations, shorter time span from symptom onset to surgery, non-smoker status and the absence of prior lumbosacral fusion. Obesity, smoking, the presence of emotional distress, fibromyalgia and hypothyroidism seem to increase the risk of poor clinical outcomes. A proper selection and/or correction of modifiable prognostic factors could reduce the incidence of endoscopic treatment failure and, as a consequence, improve patient outcomes and quality of life. However, future efforts should focus on experimental and randomised studies to fully determine these associations.
A narrative systematic review of randomised controlled trials that compare cannulation techniques for haemodialysis
Authors: Fielding Catherine A , Hadfield Amanda , White Kelly , Waters Dan , James Cathryn , Buchanan Heather , Fluck Richard J , Selby Nicholas M
Published: January 2021

Background:

Cannulation of arteriovenous access for haemodialysis affects longevity of the access, associates with complications and affects patients’ experiences of haemodialysis. Buttonhole and rope ladder techniques were developed to reduce complications. However, studies that compare these two techniques report disparate results. This systematic review performs an in-depth exploration of RCTs, with a specific focus on cannulation as a complex intervention.

Methods:

A PICO question and protocol was developed as per PRISMA-P guidance and registered on PROSPERO (CRD42018094656 https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=112895 ). The systematic review included any RCT performed on adult patients with end-stage kidney disease undergoing cannulation of arteriovenous fistulae or grafts for in-centre haemodialysis, as performed by healthcare staff. Assessment of quality of RCTs and data extraction were performed by two co-authors independently. Data were extracted on the study design, intervention and comparator and outcomes, including patency, infection and patients’ experiences.

Results:

The literature search identified 241 records. Ten records met inclusion criteria, which described five different RCTs that compared buttonhole to either rope ladder or usual practice. Results were disparate, with patency and infection results varying. Pain Visual Analogue scores were the only measure used to capture patients’ experiences and results were inconclusive. All RCTs had differences and limitations in study design that could explain the disparity in results.

Conclusion:

Current evidence does not allow definitive conclusions as to whether buttonhole or rope ladder needling technique is superior. Future RCTs should describe interventions and comparators with adequate detail, embed process evaluation, use standardised outcome measures and build on feasibility studies to produce definitive results.
Ritual Spaces, Governmentality and Cultural Governance in Urban Development: The Case of Shenzhen
Authors: Guo Man , Herrmann-Pillath Carsten
Published: January 2021

Recently, the concept of “cultural governance” has gained analytical traction in research on Chinese urban development. This is mostly diagnosed as a top-down process of defining and imposing cultural forms in government-led projects, such as in tourism. We argue that the case of Shenzhen manifests important differences, and is highly significant, considering the national and international status of this mega-city. Based on detailed field studies, supplemented with information about other cases, we show that in Shenzhen local cultural forms show resilience and increasing public presence, while also being shaped by inclusive cultural policies that are informed by the national drive towards reinstating traditional Chinese values as part and parcel of national identity. One manifestation is the enactment of the traditional ritual space of the village in urban architecture, such as the duality of ancestral hall and village temple, often at so-called “cultural squares,” and the expression of territorial ambitions of lineages in competitive projects of redevelopment. We suggest enhancing the concept of cultural governance by the concept of governmentality to grasp these phenomena analytically.
Policy evaluation for a complex world: Practical methods and reflections from the UK Centre for the Evaluation of Complexity across the Nexus
Authors: Barbrook-Johnson Pete , Castellani Brian , Hills Dione , Penn Alexandra , Gilbert Nigel
Published: January 2021

The value of complexity science and related approaches in policy evaluation have been widely discussed over the last 20 years, not least in this journal. We are now at a crossroads; this Special Issue argues that the use of complexity science in evaluation could deepen and broaden rendering evaluations more practical and rigorous. The risk is that the drive to better evaluate policies from a complexity perspective could falter. This special issue is the culmination of 4 years’ work at this crossroads in the UK Centre for the Evaluation of Complexity Across the Nexus. It includes two papers which consider the cultural and organisational operating context for the use of complexity in evaluation and four methodological papers on developments and applications. Together, with a strong input from practitioners, these papers aim to make complexity actionable and expand the use of complexity ideas in evaluation and policy practice.
She “didn’t see my weight; she saw me, a mom who needed help breastfeeding”: Perceptions of perinatal weight stigma and its relationship with breastfeeding experiences
Authors: Dieterich Rachel , Chang Judy , Danford Cynthia , Scott Paul W , Wend Caroline , Demirci Jill
Published: January 2021

Weight stigmatization is related to emotional and psychological distress including low self-esteem, body image dissatisfaction, depression, and anxiety; all linked with suboptimal breastfeeding outcomes. This qualitative descriptive study explored postpartum individuals’ recalled experiences of weight stigma during interactions with perinatal healthcare professionals and its perceived influence on their breastfeeding experiences. Semi-structured phone interviews were conducted with (n= 18) participants. Three themes emerged: (1) “Size Doesn’t Matter: They Looked Beyond the Scale,” (2) “My Self-Confidence and Desire to Breastfeed is More Important than Weight,” and (3) “I Was on My Own”— Limited Social Support not Weight Stigma Influenced Breastfeeding.
Effects of reading strategy instruction in English as a second language on students’ academic reading comprehension
Authors: Yapp Deborah , de Graaff Rick , van den Bergh Huub
Published: January 2021

The ability to read in a second language (L2) for academic purposes is essential for higher education students. Dutch colleges increasingly use materials in English or teach in English. This can be challenging for L2 readers, especially students entering higher education from vocational studies, who may have less experience with L2 academic reading. Teaching L2 reading programmes containing explicit instruction of reading strategies may benefit higher education students in L2 academic reading, particularly since reading strategies learned in the first language (L1) may not transfer to the L2. In this 7-week L2 reading strategy intervention, 801 first-year polytechnic students learned to use seven reading strategies that were effective according to a meta-analysis of L2 reading strategy studies. Data regarding students reading skills were collected over one academic year, from three treatment waves, using a regression discontinuity design. Three tests of equal difficulty were given to participants. In each wave students completed reading tests several weeks before the intervention, at the beginning and directly after the intervention. Results show that in all three waves the improvement in reading comprehension scores between the second and third measurement (due to the experimental course) significantly exceeded the increase between the first two measurement occasions. Although the intervention was shown to be effective, the effects were to some extent mediated by the previous education level. This study supports the explicit instruction of strategies in L2 reading for students in higher education and welcomes more research into L2 reading strategy interventions for students from vocational backgrounds.