bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual Violence at University: Are Indigenous Students More at Risk?
Authors: Dion Jacinthe , Boisvert Stephanie , Paquette Geneviève , Bergeron Manon , Hébert Martine , Daigneault Isabelle
Published: June 2021

University-based sexual violence prevalence is worryingly high and leads to many serious consequences for health and academic achievement. Although previous work has documented greater risk for sexual violence among Indigenous Peoples, little is known about university-based sexual violence experienced by Indigenous students. Using a large-scale study of university-based sexual violence in Canada, the current study aims to (1) examine the risk of sexual violence against Indigenous students compared to non-Indigenous students, and (2) to document sexual violence experiences of Indigenous students. Undergraduate students from six universities ( N = 5,627) completed online questionnaires regarding their experience and consequences of university-based sexual violence (e.g., forms of sexual violence experiences, gender, and status of the perpetrator, context of the violence, PTSD, disclosure). Findings indicated that compared with their non-Indigenous peers, Indigenous students experienced significantly higher levels of sexual harassment. However, no difference was found for unwanted sexual behaviors, nor for sexual violence contexts. Among Indigenous students, those having experienced sexual violence after age 18 (outside university) were more likely to report university-based sexual violence. Overall, findings highlight that Indigenous students, as well as non-Indigenous students, experience university-based sexual violence. Given their history, Indigenous students may have different needs, so sustainable policies that foster cultural safety on all campuses are clearly needed.
Linear translaminar fracture characterization of additive manufactured continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic
Authors: Lamin Weiller M , Bussamra Flávio LS , Ferreira Rafael TL , Sales Rita CM , Baldo José E
Published: June 2021

This work presents the experimental determination of fracture mechanics parameters of composite specimens manufactured by fused filament fabrication (FFF) with continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic filaments, based on Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM). The critical mode I translaminar fracture toughness (KIc) and the critical energy release rate (GIc) are found for unidirectional and cross-ply laminates. The specimens were submitted to quasi-static tensile testing. Digital Image Correlation (DIC) is used to find the stress field. The stress fields around the crack tip are compared to linear elastic finite element simulations. The results demonstrate the magnitude of fracture toughness is in the same range as for polymers and some metals, depending on lay-up configuration. Besides, fractographic analyses show some typical features as river lines, fiber impression, fiber pulls-out and porosity aspects.
Optimal cruise performance of a conventional helicopter
Authors: Avanzini Giulio , Luigi de Angelis Emanuele , Giulietti Fabrizio
Published: June 2021

This article presents an analytical framework for investigating the cruise performance of conventional helicopter configurations. Starting from the analysis of power required in straight-and-level flight, endurance and range performance of turbine- and battery-powered rotorcraft are considered, for which it is assumed that fuel consumption and constant-power battery discharge models are, respectively, made available. The original contributions of the article are represented by (a) a closed-form formulation for expected endurance and range for both classes of vehicles, where electrical helicopters have not been dealt with in previous studies and (b) the analytical derivation of an accurate estimate for best endurance and best range airspeeds as a function of relevant system parameters. The approach is validated by analyzing two reference helicopters, showing good physical insight and better accuracy with respect to other techniques available in the literature, for the identification of an energy-efficient cruise flight strategy.
Prevalence, risk factors and impact of cellular immunity on intestinal parasitosis among people living with HIV at Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Uzairue Leonard I , Oghena Marcus , Ikede Rex Ehizojie , Aguda Opeyemi Nifemi , Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: June 2021

This study was sought to determine the impact of CD4+ T-cell count and associated risk factors with intestinal parasitosis in people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Central Hospital, Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. One hundred and seventy (170) HIV-seropositive subjects were enrolled in the study from 24 August 2015 to 22 January 2016. Sociodemographic data were assessed using structured questionnaires. Blood and stool samples were collected from every participant. CD4+ T-cell count and stool parasitology were performed. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 44.7%. Helminthiasis (67%) was a predominant infection in the study, while 32.9% had protozoasis. Specifically, Ancylostoma duodenale (33.3%) was the most common helminth, and Trichuris trichiura (7.8%), the least. However, Strongyloides stercoralis, Ascaris lumbricoides and Hymenolepis nana were 13.7%, 31.5% and 13.7%, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. (25.0%) was the only protozoan. Lower CD4+ T-cell count, ART naivety (OR = 2.62 p < 0.05), residence in a rural setting (OR = 0.89, p < 0.05), and farming occupation (OR = 1.70, p < 0.05) were associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis among PLHIV. This study revealed a significantly high prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in ART naive PLHIV with reduced CD4+ count. Hence, it is recommended to frequently test for intestinal parasitosis and commencement of ART in all PLHIV to improve their health and longevity.
Leisure and alienation in Houellebecq’s fiction
Authors: Willging Jennifer
Published: June 2021

This article examines representations of leisure in Michel Houellebecq’s fiction. Theorised as a new human need that arose from the alienating nature of work in industrial society, leisure is one of three sectors of everyday life explored by modern sociologists. Marxist philosopher and sociologist Henri Lefebvre saw in leisure a domain in which human beings could experience moments of freedom and fulfilment, but which was becoming increasingly controlled and commercialised and therefore as potentially alienating as work. This article argues that Houellebecq’s fiction portrays contemporary leisure activities, such as shopping, tourism, physical exercise, smoking, and television-watching, as manifestations of this latter kind of leisure, which has proliferated under neoliberalism. His protagonists attempt, if often half-heartedly, to compensate for neoliberalism’s erosion of family and work as stabilising forces to find identity and fulfilment in leisure. If their efforts inevitably fail, Houellebecq’s attention to everyday leisure at least confirms Lefebvre’s contention that a critical evaluation of leisure was increasingly urgent.
Planning natural gas networks and storage in emerging countries – an application to Brazil
Authors: Moreira dos Santos Ricardo , Szklo Alexandre
Published: June 2021

Some emerging countries, such as Brazil, have large remaining natural gas resources but relatively poor infrastructure to monetize it. When most of the natural gas extraction derives from associated gas, this results in high reinjection rates in production fields combined with fuel imports also to deal with an increasingly variable demand. This study test the hypothesis that modeling the natural gas transportation network expansion with Underground gas Storage (UGS) is crucial, as UGS can reduce transportation costs by better fitting natural gas supply and demand. Without UGS chances are that network expansion will be based in oversized pipelines, or pipelines often challenged by peaking demands. Therefore, this study emulated a real natural gas transport network in a thermo-hydraulic model, aiming at diagnosing its bottlenecks mainly caused by demand intermittency, and pointing out infrastructure solutions. Findings indicated the design of UGS associated with new pipelines as a problem-solver for network bottlenecks, under a least-cost approach. This option reduced idleness and lowered gas transmission costs by 60%. In addition, it increased the network operation reliability and created a virtuous cycle, where a better planning reduces the gas tariffs and spur infrastructure expansion by raising the fuel competitiveness.
Against the reduction of teleology to sophisticated causal explanation
Authors: Gaj Nicolò
Published: June 2021

The purpose of science is to provide an account of what is going on behind the phenomena we experience. In psychology, such a task may be approached from two different perspectives. For those espousing a naturalistic–monistic approach, it implies accounting for human behavior via an appeal to explanations by causes. To exponents of a humanistic–pluralistic approach, it will instead entail adopting a teleological outlook via an appeal to explanations by reasons. While presented as an attempt to restore the latter framework to psychological research, Arocha’s account ends up unintentionally endorsing the former, which he purports to reject. It is herein asserted that psychology requires the adoption of a genuinely teleological—that is to say, intentionalistic—framework to account for what is going on behind the observable, thereby contributing to addressing the replication crisis and laying the ground for reforming psychology.
Reduction of doxorubicin-induced cytotoxicity and mitochondrial damage by betanin in rat isolated cardiomyocytes and mitochondria
Authors: Hafez AA , Jamali Z , Samiei S , Khezri S , Salimi A
Published: June 2021

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anticancer drug which is used for treatment of several types of cancers. But the clinical use of doxorubicin is limited because of its cardiotoxicity and cardiomyopathy. Mitochondrial-dependent oxidative stress and cardiac inflammation appear to be involved in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Betanin as a bioactive compound in Beetroot ( Beta vulgaris L.) displays anti-radical, antioxidant gene regulatory and cardioprotective activities. In this current study, we investigated the protective effect of betanin on doxorubicin-induced cytotoxicity and mitochondrial-dependent oxidative stress in isolated cardiomyocytes and mitochondria. Isolated cardiomyocytes and mitochondria were treated with three concentrations of betanin (1, 5 and 10 µM) and doxorubicin (3.5 µM) for 6 h. The parameters of cellular and mitochondrial toxicity were analyzed using biochemical and flow cytometric methods. Our results showed a significant toxicity in isolated cardiomyocytes and mitochondria in presence of doxorubicin which was related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), increase in oxidation of GSH to GSSG, lysosomal/mitochondrial damages and mitochondrial swelling. While betanin pretreatment reverted doxorubicin-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in isolated cardiomyocytes and mitochondria. These results suggest that betanin elicited a typical protective effect on doxorubicin-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress. It is possible that betanin could be used as a useful adjuvant in combination with doxorubicin chemotherapy for reduction of cardiotoxicity and cardiomyopathy.
Non-parametric approach for frequentist multiple imputation in survival analysis with missing covariates
Authors: Takeuchi Yoshinori , Ogawa Mitsunori , Hagiwara Yasuhiro , Matsuyama Yutaka
Published: June 2021

In clinical and epidemiological studies using survival analysis, some explanatory variables are often missing. When this occurs, multiple imputation (MI) is frequently used in practice. In many cases, simple parametric imputation models are routinely adopted without checking the validity of the model specification. Misspecified imputation models can cause biased parameter estimates. In this study, we describe novel frequentist type MI procedures for survival analysis using proportional and additive hazards models. The procedures are based on non-parametric estimation techniques and do not require the correct specification of parametric imputation models. For continuous missing covariates, we first sample imputation values from a parametric imputation model. Then, we obtain estimates by solving the estimating equation modified by non-parametrically estimated conditional densities. For categorical missing covariates, we directly sample imputation values from a non-parametrically estimated conditional distribution and then obtain estimates by solving the corresponding estimating equation. We evaluate the performance of the proposed procedures using simulation studies: one uses simulated data; another uses data informed by parameters generated from a real-world medical claims database. We also applied the procedures to a pharmacoepidemiological study that examined the effect of antihyperlipidemics on hyperglycemia incidence.
Revisiting the Factors Influencing Teaching Choice Framework: Exploring What Fits with Virtual Teaching
Authors: Rana Sudhir , Singh Amit Kumar , Singhania Shubham , Verma Shubhangi , Haque Moon Moon
Published: June 2021

The present study revisits the Factors Influencing Teaching Choice (FIT-Choice) framework and explores what motivates business management academicians in teaching virtually. The revisit is based on a quantitative cross-sectional research design using 256 responses collected from in-service business management academicians teaching post-graduate business courses in India, through a structured questionnaire. The exercise of revisiting the FIT-Choice framework in the context of virtual teaching in business management courses led us to find four new variables, that is, task demand and expert career, teaching efficacy, knowledge assimilation and institutional utility value, as well as suggest revising teaching and learning experience, task returns and values. The results reveal that some additional factors motivating business academicians are teaching efficacy, content expertise, learning of new technology, futuristic growth and opportunities, alternative career opportunities and personal branding. The study provides suggestions to the apex bodies, regulators of higher education and institutions to take a call on motivational and influential factors while drafting the job requirements in business schools. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of infrastructural and technological development required to be achieved by higher education institutions.
Future–Spot Relationship in Commodity Market: A Comparison Across Commodity Segments in India
Authors: Kaura Ruchika , Rajput Namita
Published: June 2021

This study aims to analyse the future–spot pricing relationship in the context of most actively traded commodities traded on Multi Commodity Exchange of India, which is the leading commodity exchange in the country today. The study intends to compare the pricing relations of three popular commodity segments, that is, bullion and metal, energy and agricultural segments, to explore whether future–spot pricing relationships are similar for all commodity segments or not. The study has applied vector autoregressive (VAR) model on a sample of 13 commodities, categorized as 7 commodities from bullion and metal segment, 2 commodities from energy segment and 4 commodities from agricultural segment. The results of VAR model show that in India, the non-agricultural commodity sector constituting of bullion, metal and energy commodities behave close to each other, but the behaviour of agricultural commodities is quite different from non-agricultural commodities. As regards non-agricultural commodities, the futures market plays a quite dominant and significant role as compared to the spot markets. However, in case of agricultural commodities, the futures market has a comparatively less dominant and strong role, and their spot market also plays an equally strong role. A comparative study of the pricing relationships existing among the three commodity segments will be extremely helpful for farmers, traders, investors as well as the portfolio managers in choosing the most profitable commodity classes for trading, investment and portfolio optimization. Regulators and policymakers can plan and implement an appropriate regulatory framework to strengthen these markets, especially agricultural commodity market, to promote economic growth.
Does Education Affect Environmental Crime? A Dynamic Panel Data Approach at Provincial Level in Italy
Authors: Castaldo Angelo , Germani Anna Rita , Pergolizzi Antonio
Published: June 2021

This article investigates the role of education on environmental crime in Italy using a panel of 110 Italian provinces over the period 2010–2015. We employ a system-GMM (Generalized Method of Moments) dynamic panel data approach to tackle the endogeneity that might arise in the estimations from the environmental crime dynamic path and to consider time-invariant effects on provinces. Our empirical results, even after controlling for socioeconomic and judicial efficiency characteristics, support the existence of a U-inverted relationship between education and environmental crime, which depicts an unconventional finding: At the margin, a higher level of education endowment offsets the propensity to commit environmental crimes, which are confirmed to be white-collar type of crimes. The results are robust to model specifications and endogeneity. Furthermore, to check the robustness of nonmonotonicity in the relationship between environmental crime and education and to control for unobserved provincial heterogeneity, we also exploit a semiparametric fixed effects model. There is wide room for efficiency gains that could arise from policy interventions aiming to put environmental crimes into perspective.
Efficacy and Safety of Bioabsorbable Bone Hemostatic Agent in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kim Jong-Keun , Ro Du Hyun , Han Sang-Min , Lee Myung Chul , Han Hyuk-Soo
Published: June 2021

Although a bioabsorbable bone hemostatic agent (BBHA) was developed approximately 20 years ago to overcome the shortcomings of conventional bone wax, its bleeding control capacity has not yet been studied. This study was aimed at investigating the efficacy and safety of BBHA in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Sixty-two patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA for knee osteoarthritis were included and randomized to the control or BBHA group. Before releasing the tourniquet, BBHA was applied on the bone-cut surface that was not covered by implants. The primary variable was the drainage volume during the postoperative period. The secondary outcomes were total estimated blood loss (EBL), hemoglobin level, hematocrit level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) level, range of motion (ROM), pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, and rate of complications. There were no significant differences in drainage volume or EBL between the 2 groups. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were higher in the BBHA group during the 4-week postoperative period; however, the intergroup differences were not significant. The ESR, CRP, ROM, and pain VAS scores in the BBHA group were not significantly different from the corresponding values in the control group. No specific complications were observed. Although BBHA was found to be safe without complications, it did not decrease bleeding after TKA in general cases. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of BBHA in patients with coagulation problems.
Modelling and experimental characterisation of a compressional adaptive magnetorheological elastomer isolator
Authors: Rustighi Emiliano , Ledezma-Ramirez Diego F , Tapia-Gonzalez Pablo E , Ferguson Neil , Zakaria Azrul
Published: June 2021

This article proposes a simple physical-based model to describe and predict the performance of axially compressed magnetorheological elastomer cylinders used as vibration and shock absorbers. The model describes the magnetorheological elastomer macroscopic stiffness changes because of an externally applied magnetic field from a microscopic composite cell of silicone rubber and carbonyl iron particle. Despite neglecting the material hyperelasticity, anisotropy and adjacent magnetic interaction, the model describes effectively the effect of the magnetic field on the macroscopic modulus of elasticity. The changes in the mechanical properties with the induced magnetic field are measured on samples of different particle concentration based on volume percentage, that is, 10 and 30 percent concentration of iron particles in a silicone rubber matrix. The manufacturing process of the samples is detailed, as well as the experimental validation of the effective stiffness change under a magnetic field in terms of transmissibility and mobility testing. However, the prediction seems to be limited by the linear elastic material model. Predictions and measurements are compared, showing that the model is capable of predicting the tunability of the dynamic/shock absorber and that the proposed devices have a possible application in the reduction of mechanical vibrations.
Call and Response? Neighborhood Inequality and Political Voice
Authors: Wichowsky Amber , Shah Paru , Heideman Amanda
Published: June 2021

Over the past 20 years, many cities across the United States have adopted a range of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to make it easier for residents to get informed, communicate their preferences, and hold public officials accountable. In this paper, we ask two questions. First, are service requests and responses illustrative of existing neighborhood differences across a city? Second, do patterns of request and response differ by the type of complaint made to the city? We leverage data from the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to examine neighborhood variation in service requests and subsequent response times to those complaints. Our analysis makes a number of important contributions to the current literature on ICTs, including providing a more nuanced understanding of how types of requests vary by neighborhood context, and a more comprehensive picture of how requests and response times reveal social and racial disparities across the city.
Clinical features, treatment and outcome of discospondylitis in cats
Authors: Gomes Sergio A , Garosi Laurent S , Behr Sebastien , Toni Cristina , Tabanez Joana , Rusbridge Clare , Targett Mike , Lowrie Mark
Published: June 2021

Objectives

There is a paucity of information on feline discospondylitis. This study aimed to describe the signalment, clinical and laboratory findings, aetiological agents, treatment and outcome in cats affected by discospondylitis.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of the medical records of cats diagnosed with discospondylitis at four referral institutions.

Results

A total of 17 cats were identified. Most were domestic shorthair cats (76.5%) and male (58.8%), with a median age of 9 years (range 0.9–14) and a median duration of clinical signs of 3 weeks (range 0.3–16). All cats presented with spinal hyperaesthesia; 3/17 had pyrexia. Neurological dysfunction was found in 64.7% of cats, which was indicative of a T3–L3 or L4–S2 spinal segment, associated nerve root or associated nerve neurolocalisation. Haematology, serum biochemistry and urinalysis revealed occasional inconsistent non-specific changes. All cats underwent urine culture; 9/17 cats also had a distinct tissue cultured. Positive bacterial cultures were obtained in two cats (11.8%) for Staphylococcus species (urine, blood and intradiscal fine-needle aspirate) and Escherichia coli (urine); both presented with multifocal discospondylitis. Treatment was non-surgical in all cats, with sustained antibiotic therapy for a median of 3 months (range 1–9). Analgesia provided included non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alone or in combination with gabapentin. Restricted exercise was advised for a minimum of 4 weeks. Outcome information available in 12 cats was excellent in terms of pain control and neurological function in 10 cats (83.3%) at the time of stopping antibiotics. Recurrence occurred in one case, which had received a single antibiotic for 6 weeks, and relapsed 4 months after presentation. One other case failed to improve and was euthanased during the course of hospitalisation.

Conclusions and relevance

Feline discospondylitis is uncommon and no obvious signalment predisposition was found in this study. Spinal hyperaesthesia was universally present, with neurological dysfunction also highly prevalent. Bacterial culture was unrewarding in most cases. Amoxicillin–clavulanic acid or cephalosporins are reasonable choices for first-line antibiotics. Prognosis was favourable, with no long-term evidence of recurrence in cats on sustained antibiotic therapy, for a mean duration of 3 months.
Lacrimal Function and Ocular Complications in Patients Treated with Systemic Isotretinoin
Authors: Bozkurt B. , ÍRkeç M.T. , Atakan N. , Orhan M. , Geyik P.Ö.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the effect on lacrimal function and ocular complications in patients with severe acne vulgaris during systemic treatment with 13- cis -retinoic acid (isotretinoin).

Methods

Forty patients with acne vulgaris were treated with systemic isotretinoin at dosages of 0.5-1 mg/kg per day for two months. Full ophthalmologic examination, Schirmer / test, fluorescein break-up (BUT) and microbiological investigations of the conjunctival flora were done before, during the second month and at least one month after the end of the treatment.

Results

The average Schirmer values before and after the treatment were 21.6 mm/5 minutes (SD ± 7.01) and 18.48 mm/5 minutes (SD ± 7.87) respectively. After the treatment BUT was less than 10 seconds in 50% of the patients and 55% had blepharitis. Subjective symptoms like dryness, itching and contact lens intolerance occurred in 42.5% and colonization of the conjunctiva by Staphylococcus aureus increased significantly during treatment (p = 0.031). All abnormal findings disappeared one month after the cessation of treatment.

Discussion

Isotretinoin causes signs and symptoms of dry eye, probably by reducing meibomian gland function, but ocular complications are generally not serious when low doses are used for a limited time, and are reversible after discontinuation.
No difference in whole-blood metal ions between 32-mm and 36- to 44-mm femoral heads in metal-on-polyethylene total hip arthroplasty: a 2-year report from a randomised control trial
Authors: Bunyoz Kristine I , Tsikandylakis Georgios , Mortensen Kristian , Gromov Kirill , Mohaddes Maziar , Malchau Henrik , Troelsen Anders
Published: June 2021

Aim:

To investigate the effect of femoral head size on blood metal-ion levels caused by taper corrosion in metal-on-polyethylene total hip arthroplasty, comparing 36- to 44-mm heads with 32-mm heads.

Methods:

In a randomised, controlled, single-blinded trial, 96 patients were allocated to receive either a 32-mm metal head or the largest possible metal head (36–44 mm) that could be accommodated in the thinnest available vitamin E, cross-linked polyethylene insert. Blood metal ion levels were collected at 1- and 2-year follow-ups.

Results:

At 1-year, metal-ion levels did not differ between the groups. The median (interquartile range) blood-ion levels for the 32-mm versus the 36- to 44-mm group were 0.11 µg/L (0.08–0.15) versus 0.12 µg/L (0.08–0.22), p = 0.546, for cobalt, 0.50 µg/L (0.50–0.59) versus 0.50 µg/L (0.50–1.20), p = 0.059, for chromium and 1.58 µg/L (1.38–2.05) versus 1.48 µg/L (1.14–1.87), p = 0.385, for titanium. At 2 years, there was no difference either and the corresponding values were 0.15 µg/L (0.12–0.24) versus 0.18 µg/L (0.12–0.28), p = 0.682 for cobalt, 0.50 µg/L (0.50–0.50) versus 0.50 µg/L (0.50–0.57), p = 0.554, for chromium and 1.54 µg/L (1.16–1.87) versus 1.42 µg/L (1.01–1.72), p = 0.207 for titanium.

Conclusions:

The use of the largest possible metal head (36–44 mm) compared to a 32-mm head in metal–on-polyethylene bearings does not appear to elevate blood metal-ion levels up to 2 years postoperatively. As taper corrosion is probably time-dependent, longer-term reports are needed to evaluate the association between large metal heads and blood metal ion levels. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (reg. ID NCT0231 6704)
Does grand theory shape officials’ speech?
Authors: Ba Heather-Leigh Kathryn , McKeown Timothy
Published: June 2021

In what situations is the speech of foreign policy officials a reflection of speech expounding grand theories of International Relations? Using a linear support vector classification algorithm, we analyze all the published volumes of Foreign Relations of the United States as a single corpus, examining the use of five frames taken from a mix of academic theory and day-to-day practice: realism, geopolitics, liberalism, Cold War politics, and a pragmatic frame. We also investigate how the use of these frames varies across subject matter and in ways that are consistent with some simple hypotheses that connect frame use to situational factors.
Researching language and cognition in bilinguals
Authors: Bassetti Bene , Filipović Luna
Published: June 2021

Aims:

This article reviews recent research on the relationship between language and thinking in bilinguals.

Approach:

The paper reviews aspects of previous research, and links it to the articles in this special issue.

Conclusions:

Research on language and cognition in bilinguals requires both depth (in-depth investigations of one area in order to test approaches and methods) and breadth (investigations of a wide range of research areas). It should cover all levels of language and all aspects of cognition, in line with the latest theoretical and methodological developments in relevant disciplines (e.g. using linguistic and non-linguistic tasks, collecting quantitative and qualitative data).

Originality and significance:

This introduction discusses important theoretical and methodological aspects of recent developments in the field.
The vibration analysis of the elastically restrained functionally graded Timoshenko beam with arbitrary cross sections
Authors: Li Guofang , Wang Gang , Ni Junfang , Li Liang
Published: June 2021

In this study, an investigation on the free vibration of the beam with material properties and cross section varying arbitrarily along the axis direction is studied based on the so-called Spectro-Geometric Method. The cross-section area and second moment of area of the beam are both expanded into Fourier cosine series, which are mathematically capable of representing any variable cross section. The Young’s modulus, the mass density and the shear modulus varying along the lengthwise direction of the beam, are also expanded into Fourier cosine series. The translational displacement and rotation of cross section are expressed into the Fourier series by adding some polynomial functions which are used to handle the elastic boundary conditions with more accuracy and high convergence rate. According to Hamilton’s principle, the eigenvalues and the coefficients of the Fourier series can be obtained. Some examples are presented to validate the accuracy of this method and study the influence of the parameters on the vibration of the beam. The results show that the first four natural frequencies gradually decrease as the coefficient of the radius [Formula: see text] increases, and decreases as the gradient parameter n increases under clamped–clamped end supports. The stiffness of the functionally Timoshenko beam with arbitrary cross sections is variable compared with the uniform beam, which makes the vibration amplitude of the beam have different changes.
How teens negotiate privacy on social media proactively and reactively
Authors: Chou Hui-Lien , Chou Chien
Published: June 2021

Privacy management can be dichotomized into proactive and reactive behaviors. The former indicates avoiding information leakage beforehand. The latter occurs in the form of recovery efforts and it thus involves interpersonal dynamics. Past studies often focus on proactive privacy management without taking social interaction into account. The current study adopts coping and threat appraisal in the Protection Motivation Theory to compare the factors related to distinct types of privacy management with a stratified sample of teenagers in Taiwan (N = 1956). Controlling the pattern of social networking site use, the empirical results highlight the necessity of differentiating the privacy management. In addition, self-efficacy interacted with perceived vulnerability. Teenagers might ignore their vulnerability perceptions when they perceive themselves as having inferior self-efficacy, constituting disengagement from privacy protection. While it is never easy to prevent privacy breaches, suggestions for instructional designs are made on the basis of the behavioral types and empirical results.
A Systematic Review of the Biological Correlates and Consequences of Childhood Maltreatment and Adverse Childhood Experiences
Authors: Cooke Eric M. , Connolly Eric J. , Boisvert Danielle L. , Hayes Brittany E.
Published: June 2021

Childhood maltreatment (CM) and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are two primary forms of interpersonal victimization that have been associated with a host of deleterious health outcomes. Studies over the past decade have begun to use a range of biologically informed methods to better understand the role biology plays in the relationship between CM, ACEs, and later life outcomes. This line of research has shown that both forms of victimization occur at sensitive periods of development, which can increase the likelihood of “getting under the skin” and influence health and behavior across the life course. This review examines the current state of knowledge on this hypothesis. One hundred and ninety-nine studies are included in this systematic review based on criteria that they be written in English, use a biologically informed method, and be conducted on samples of humans. Results reveal that latent additive genetic influences, biological system functioning captured by biomarkers, polygenic risk scores, and neurobiological factors are commonly associated with exposure and response to CM and ACEs. The implication of these findings for the existing body of research on early life victimization and recommendations for future research and policy are discussed.
Gender, Race, Ethnicity, and the Racialization of Attitudes Toward Descriptive Representation
Authors: Lucas Jennifer C. , Silber Mohamed Heather
Published: June 2021

Who is most likely to consider diverse representation desirable? Previous literature typically emphasizes the importance of partisanship and group identity congruence (i.e., women representing women) in influencing attitudes about descriptive representation. Alternatively, we test whether the racialized politics that emerged in 2016 might now shape views about representation by members of underrepresented groups. Using data from the 2016 ANES, we examine attitudes toward increasing the number of women and Hispanic representatives. Rather than partisanship or identity congruence, our results point to the primacy of racial attitudes, linked fate, and feminism in shaping views about diverse representation. Indeed, even when examining attitudes about increased representation by women, we find strong evidence that opinions are now racialized. We argue for a more expansive understanding of support for descriptive representation, which may reflect an individual’s opinions of marginalized groups and structural inequities more broadly.
Arterial Stiffness Assessed by Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index in Patients With Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Its Alterations After Treatment
Authors: Mylonas Spyridon N. , Moulakakis Konstantinos G. , Kadoglou Nikolaos , Antonopoulos Constantinos , Kotsis Thomas E. , Kakisis John , Katsenis Konstantinos , Liapis Christos
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The aim of the present study was to investigate a potential difference on the arterial stiffness among aneurysm patients and non-aneurysm controls, as well as to explore potential changes between patients treated either with endovascular or open repair.

Materials and Methods:

A 110 patients with an infrarenal AAA were prospectively enrolled in this study. Fifty-six patients received an EVAR, whereas 54 patients received an open surgical repair. Moreover, 103 gender and age-matched subjects without AAA served as controls. The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) was applied for measurement of the arterial stiffness.

Results:

CAVI values were statistically higher in the AAA patients when compared with control subjects. Although at 48 hours postoperatively the CAVI values were increased in both groups when compared to baseline values, the difference in CAVI had a tendency to be higher in the open group compared to the endovascular group. At 6 months of follow up the CAVI values returned to the baseline for the patients of the open repair group. However, in the endovascular group CAVI values remained higher when compared with the baseline values.

Conclusion:

Patients with AAAs demonstrated a higher value of CAVI compared to healthy controls. A significant increase of arterial stiffness in both groups during the immediate postoperative period was documented. The increase in arterial stiffness remained significant at 6 months in EVAR patients. Further studies are needed to elucidate the impact of a decreased aortic compliance after stentgraft implantation on the cardiac function of patients with AAA.
A New Era of Indigenous Research: Community-based Indigenous Research Ethics Protocols in Canada
Authors: Hayward Ashley , Sjoblom Erynne , Sinclair Stephanie , Cidro Jaime
Published: June 2021

Indigenous communities across Canada have established principles to guide ethical research within their respective communities. Thorough cataloging and description of these would inform university research ethics boards, researchers, and scholars and facilitate meaningful research that respects Indigenous-defined ethical values. A scoping study was conducted of all relevant peer-reviewed literature and public-facing Indigenous research ethical guidelines from First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities and organizations in Canada. A total of 20 different Indigenous research ethics boards, frameworks, and protocols were identified. Analysis resulted in three key themes: (1) balancing individual and collective rights; (2) upholding culturally-grounded ethical principles; and (3) ensuring community-driven/self-determined research. Findings demonstrate how employment of Indigenous ethical principles in research positively contributes to research outcomes.
Exposure to Low to Moderate Doses of Ionizing Radiation Induces A Reduction of Pro-Inflammatory Ly6chigh Monocytes and a U-Curved Response of T Cells in APOE -/- Mice
Authors: Rey N. , Ebrahimian T. , Gloaguen C. , Kereselidze D. , Magneron V. , Bontemps C. A. , Demarquay C. , Olsson G. , Haghdoost S. , Lehoux S. , Ebrahimian Teni G.
Published: June 2021

Low dose ionizing radiation (LDIR) is known to have a protective effect on atherosclerosis in rodent studies, but how it impacts different cells types involved in lesion formation remains incompletely understood. We investigated the immunomodulatory response of different doses and dose-rates of irradiation in ApoE-/- mice. Mice were exposed to external γ rays at very low (1.4 mGy.h-1) or low (50 mGy.h-1) dose-rates, with cumulative doses spanning 50 to 1000 mGy. Flow cytometry of circulating cells revealed a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory Ly6CHi monocytes at all cumulative doses at low dose-rate, but more disparate effects at very low dose-rate with reductions in Ly6CHi cells at doses of 50, 100 and 750 mGy only. In contrast, Ly6CLo monocytes were not affected by LDIR. Similarly, proportions of CD4+ T cell subsets in the spleen did not differ between irradiated mice and non-irradiated controls, whether assessing CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory or CD69+ activated lymphocytes. In the aorta, gene expression of cytokines such as IL-1 and TGF-ß and adhesion molecules such as E-Selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 were reduced at the intermediate dose of 200 mGy. These results suggest that LDIR may reduce atherosclerotic plaque formation by selectively reducing blood pro-inflammatory monocytes and by impairing adhesion molecule expression and inflammatory processes in the vessel wall. In contrast, splenic T lymphocytes were not affected by LDIR. Furthermore, some responses to irradiation were nonlinear; reductions in aortic gene expression were significant at intermediate doses, but not at either highest or lowest doses. This work furthers our understanding of the impact of LDIR with different dose-rates on immune system response in the context of atherosclerosis.
Expressions of loneliness: Different perspectives of loneliness among school deputy principals
Authors: Dor-Haim Peleg
Published: June 2021

The study of loneliness in the workplace has received extensive attention recently. However, there is a lack of research concerning loneliness within educational organizations and no study to date has examined loneliness among deputy principals. The current study examined deputy principals’ interpretation of loneliness in the workplace and posed two questions: (a) How do deputy principals interpret their experience of loneliness at work, specifically in regard to how it manifests across different contexts? (b) What do deputy principals note as the reasons for their feelings of loneliness at work across different contexts? Based on 19 semi-structured interviews with Israeli school deputy principals, four distinctive themes of loneliness expressions were found: (a) loneliness perceived as separateness, (b) loneliness perceived as abandonment, (c) aloneness in carrying the burden of responsibility, and (d) aloneness in commitment to the school. From an analysis of the deputy principals’ accounts, several insights are provided and practical implications are suggested.
Contribution of TRESK two-pore domain potassium channel to bone cancer-induced spontaneous pain and evoked cutaneous pain in rats
Authors: Liu Jiang-Ping , Jing Hong-Bo , Xi Ke , Zhang Zi-Xian , Jin Zi-Run , Cai Si-Qing , Tian Yue , Cai Jie , Xing Guo-Gang
Published: June 2021

Cancer-associated pain is debilitating. However, the mechanism underlying cancer-induced spontaneous pain and evoked pain remains unclear. Here, using behavioral tests with immunofluorescent staining, overexpression, and knockdown of TRESK methods, we found an extensive distribution of TRESK potassium channel on both CGRP+ and IB4+ nerve fibers in the hindpaw skin, on CGRP+ nerve fibers in the tibial periosteum which lacks IB4+ fibers innervation, and on CGRP+ and IB4+ dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in rats. Moreover, we found a decreased expression of TRESK in the corresponding nerve fibers within the hindpaw skin, the tibial periosteum and the DRG neurons in bone cancer rats. Overexpression of TRESK in DRG neurons attenuated both cancer-induced spontaneous pain (partly reflect skeletal pain) and evoked pain (reflect cutaneous pain) in tumor-bearing rats, in which the relief of evoked pain is time delayed than spontaneous pain. In contrast, knockdown of TRESK in DRG neurons produced both spontaneous pain and evoked pain in naïve rats. These results suggested that the differential distribution and decreased expression of TRESK in the periosteum and skin, which is attributed to the lack of IB4+ fibers innervation within the periosteum of the tibia, probably contribute to the behavioral divergence of cancer-induced spontaneous pain and evoked pain in bone cancer rats. Thus, the assessment of spontaneous pain and evoked pain should be accomplished simultaneously when evaluating the effect of some novel analgesics in animal models. Also, this study provides solid evidence for the role of peripheral TRESK in both cancer-induced spontaneous pain and evoked cutaneous pain.
Presence and participation in a virtual court
Authors: Rossner Meredith , Tait David
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the use of video-mediated justice practices. However, such developments have already been transforming justice over the course of the previous 20 years. Scholars and legal professinals have expressed concerns over how remote appearance in court impacts perceptions of the accused. In this article, we consider some of these concerns and explore the concept of the ‘distributed court’ as a potential remedy. Unlike traditional video appearance in court, where a defendant participates remotely while all other players are co-located in the same courtroom, in a distributed court all participants meet in a shared virtual space. Such a configuration is similar to the virtual courts developed worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. We draw on a reimagining of co-presence from scholars in the sociology of technology to elaborate the concept of the distributed court. We then present the results of a mock jury study that examines how jurors respond to variations in court technology configurations. We find that appearing by video does not impact the likelihood of a guilty verdict. Rather, a defendant appearing alone in a dock seems to be the most prejudicial location. We find that a distributed court can communicate equality and produce a shared experience of remote participation. We conclude with a discussion of how this research can inform best practice in a future where a significant number of criminal hearings are likely to continue in a virtual format.
Revision periarterial sympathectomy for recurrent digital ischaemia: a report with 11 patients
Authors: Rudolph Megan , Butler Katherine , Prabhu Shamit , Browne Donald , Koman L. Andrew , Li Zhongyu
Published: June 2021

Following periarterial sympathectomy, patients with recurrent digital ischemia due to vasospastic or vaso-occlusive disease have few remaining treatment options. We performed a retrospective review from 1997 to 2019 to determine the safety and efficacy of revision periarterial sympathectomy. Eleven patients were identified who underwent revision periarterial sympathectomy, performed on average 84 months after their initial procedure. Preoperatively, all patients had worsening ischemic pain and five had non-healing digital ulcers. Revision digital periarterial sympathectomy alone was performed in seven patients, while four had a more extensive sympathectomy. Mean follow-up after revision was 23 months (range 3 to 76). Eight patients had symptomatic improvement and four healed their digital ulcers. Three patients developed new ulcers during follow-up, of which two healed with conservative management and one required three digital amputations. Revision periarterial sympathectomy is effective in providing symptomatic improvement and digital ulcer healing with minimal postoperative complications.

Level of evidence: IV
Management of idiopathic intracranial hypertension in pregnancy
Authors: Byth Lachlan Andrew , Lust Karin , Jeffree Rosalind L , Paine Mark , Voldanova Lucie , Craven Ann-Maree
Published: June 2021

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is more common among women of reproductive age and is often encountered in pregnancy, either pre-existing and exacerbated by pregnancy-associated weight gain and hormonal changes or arising de novo. We report the case of a 33-year-old woman with progressive visual loss and intractable headache from 20 weeks’ gestation requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunting during pregnancy. The risk of permanent maternal vision loss raises complex management dilemmas, when this must be balanced with the fetal and neonatal risks of treatment and possible premature delivery.