bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who Pays for Environmental Policy? Business Power and the Design of State-Level Climate Policies
Authors: Basseches Joshua A.
Published: September 2023

To what extent and through which means do private actors shape public policy? Research into these questions has been complicated by actors’ tendency to obscure or misrepresent their policy preferences and by the difficulty of operationalizing policy substance. This theory-building study uses qualitative methods and triangulation of multiple sources of evidence to mitigate these challenges. Confronted with puzzling patterns of variation in the design of state-level climate and renewable energy policies, I show how a two-dimensional framework attentive to the economically motivated preferences of business actors explains policy design. Drawing on policy texts, archival documents, and 111 policy-focused interviews, I find business preferences were fragmented, but that a single type of private actor, investor-owned utilities, ultimately prevailed in achieving their preferences in every case. I theorize the sources of their unmatched influence, and find that their distinctiveness is precisely what makes them powerful. My findings have implications for the study of business power and understanding obstacles to equitable climate policymaking.
Sketching the Mobile-Assisted Language Learning Experiences Designed by Taiwanese High School English Teachers
Authors: Hsieh Wen-Min , Tsai Chin-Chung
Published: September 2023

This study explored the mobile language learning experiences that Taiwanese high school English language teachers created. A total of 119 valid mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) lesson plans from 36 senior high schools in the national mobile learning (m-learning) programme in Taiwan were analysed via content analysis. The results showed that: (a) “direct guided learning” and “video sharing” were the most used m-learning strategies; (b) the major learning activity foci were on “vocabulary/grammar” and “viewing,” while “writing” received less attention; and (c) students often played the roles of “idea sharer,” “worksheet doer” and “information searcher.” Extrapolating the results with the replacement–amplification–transformation framework further revealed students as “worksheet doer” in the replacement level and “adaptive” as the distinguishing feature for the amplification and transformation level. Finally, from a mobile pedagogical framework perspective, the lesson plans showed that a certain level of personalization and collaboration was created. The results of this research could contribute to the understanding of teachers’ MALL lesson design practice and provide possible directions for supporting teachers’ design activities.
Communities Beyond the Classroom: Reflecting on a German Field Trip to a Local Non-Profit
Authors: Davis William S , Liu Bo
Published: September 2023

This practice article examines the design, implementation and impacts of a collaborative German language learning (LL) field trip in the United States through the conceptual framework of LL and teaching beyond the classroom. We explore the affordances of semi-structured out-of-class experiences in supporting world language students’ target language proficiency while addressing the crucial Communities goal area of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages World-Readiness standards. In addition to their effects on students, we consider the potential impacts of LL experiences beyond the classroom on schools and school administrations. Considerations for theory, research and practice are discussed.
Interrogating Racialized “Cultural Authenticity” Discourses Among Language-Learner Tourists in Australia
Authors: Stanley Phiona , Wight Alexander Craig
Published: September 2023

This study considers cultural adaptation through tourism, focusing on language-travelers: hybrid education-tourism consumers whose voices remain relatively silent in tourism studies. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with students, teachers, and managers in Australian English language schools to understand what language-travelers expect from their Australian experiences and the implications for language schools. The findings propose that sojourners’ experiences are framed by pre-visit imaginaries of object authenticity, wherein the “object” is both Australian culture and the wider Anglophone “West.” Such imaginaries are found to be validated by language schools, which face pressure to balance letting students glimpse the “backstage” and staging out-group imagined “authenticities,” such as by hiring fun, approachable, and above all White teachers. We identify opportunities for language centers to understand their role within tourism as cultural mediators and suggest ways forward in promoting and inculcating critical intercultural competence among language-traveler sojourners.
Saving newborns, defining livebirth: The struggle to reduce infant mortality in East-Central Europe in comparative and transnational perspectives, 1945–1965
Authors: Lišková Kateřina , Jarska Natalia , Gagyiova Annina , Aguilar López-Barajas José Luis , Rábová Šárka Caitlín
Published: September 2023

After World War II, infant mortality rates started dropping steeply. We show how this was accomplished in socialist countries in East-Central Europe. Focusing on the two postwar decades, we explore comparatively how medical experts in Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, and East Germany saved fragile newborns. Based on an analysis of medical journals, we argue that the Soviet Union and its medical practices had only a marginal influence; the four countries followed the recommendations of the World Health Organization instead, despite not being members. Importantly, we analyze the expert clashes over definitions of livebirth, which impact infant mortality statistics. We analyze the divergent practices and negotiations between countries: since the infant mortality rate came to represent the level of socioeconomic advancement, its political significance was paramount. Analyzing the struggle to reduce infant mortality thus helps us understand how socialist countries positioned themselves within the transnational framework while being members of the “socialist bloc.”
Sociology for Whom? Real Conversations and Critical Engagements in Amerikkka
Authors: Embrick David G.
Published: September 2023

Sociology, like most disciplines/institutions in racialized (and other oppressive) social systems, are steeped with policies and practices that are designed to maintain the status quo. Thus, they are partly responsible for the gatekeeping, careerism, racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination that plague our scholarly communities. In this piece, an extension of my 2018 Presidential Address to the Association for Humanist Sociology, I challenge academics to push back and find better ways, through critical humanist sociology, to serve the public good.
Emoji, Speech Acts, and Perceived Communicative Success
Authors: Holtgraves Thomas
Published: September 2023

Unlike prior research examining how emoji communicate emotions and modify intended meanings, the present research examined whether emoji can perform specific speech acts (remind, etc.), and how well users are able to accurately assess their ability to do so. In four experiments senders were asked to assume that they would send a specific emoji to perform a certain speech act, or to choose which emoji they would use to perform that speech act. Senders and receivers indicated their judgments of communicative success (i.e., that the receiver would recognize the speech act being performed). In two studies, receivers also made judgments regarding the intended meaning of the emoji. Participants judged receivers to be likely to recognize the intended meaning conveyed with an emoji, and there was some evidence of communicative success. However, participants significantly overestimated communicative success, and in all studies, receivers were more optimistic about communicative success than were senders.
Gratitude and sexual satisfaction: Benefits of gratitude for couples and insecure attachment
Authors: Leonhardt Nathan D. , Drobenko Michael A. , Raposo Stephanie , Muise Amy , Sisson Natalie M. , Impett Emily A.
Published: September 2023

People with insecure attachment tend to experience more relationship-related issues, including lower sexual satisfaction. Although gratitude is a powerful emotion that can be used to boost and maintain relationship quality, it is unclear whether gratitude can help sustain sexual satisfaction in relationships. The current research tested whether expressed and perceived expressions of gratitude promote daily sexual satisfaction, as well as whether they can attenuate the negative effects of attachment insecurity (i.e., anxiety and avoidance) on sexual satisfaction in three 21-day dyadic daily experience studies (Study 1: n = 101 couples; Study 2: n = 121 couples; Study 3: n = 118 couples). Results indicated that expressed and perceived gratitude were associated with higher sexual satisfaction (though the association was no longer significant when accounting for relationship satisfaction). Additionally, in Studies 1 and 3, gratitude buffered the negative association between attachment anxiety and sexual satisfaction. These studies provide preliminary support for the role of gratitude in shaping sexual satisfaction, particularly for people higher in attachment anxiety. Future research should determine the specific conditions under which gratitude promotes satisfying sexual relationships for insecurely attached individuals.
Predicting clozapine dose required to achieve a therapeutic plasma concentration – A comparison of a population algorithm and three algorithms based on gene variant models
Authors: Taylor David , Cahill Caroline , Wallang Paul , Millard Louise , Cela Luis Ramudo , Breen Kieran C
Published: September 2023

Background:

Clozapine is the most effective antipsychotic but requires careful titration to therapeutic blood levels. Methods to predict therapeutic doses are based on population data.

Aims:

We aimed to construct a model based on genetic variants which accurately predicted plasma levels for clozapine.

Method:

We measured clozapine plasma levels in patients on a stable dose of clozapine who were known to be fully compliant. Measured plasma levels were adjusted for sampling time and dose. Hepatic enzyme variants were analysed and models were constructed to predict the required dose. These predictions were compared with a standard population-based algorithm.

Results:

We measured plasma clozapine concentrations in 18 adherent patients on stable doses of clozapine and recorded the exact timing of sampling. For the algorithm-predicted dose, the mean difference was −49.9 mg/day ((SD 155.9), r = 0.36) from the actual dose required to give a plasma concentration of 0.35 ng/ml. The gene variant activity score predicted a dose for which the mean difference was −43.5 mg/day ((SD 140.1), r = 0.55). For the gene variant activity score with omeprazole correction predicted dose, the mean difference was −31.0 mg/day ((SD 140.8), r = 0.54), and with the gene variant CYP1A2 inducibility predicted dose the mean difference was 44.9 mg/day ((SD 160.8), r = 0.32).

Conclusion:

Our gene variant activity score with omeprazole correction gave the best estimate of the clozapine dose required to achieve a minimum therapeutic plasma concentration. The use of this model will allow safer titration of clozapine and may reduce the need for plasma-level monitoring during titration.
Early Interventionists’ Perspectives About Changes in Caregiver Coaching During COVID-19: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Williams Crystal S. , Ostrosky Michaelene M.
Published: September 2023

Caregiver coaching is a recommended practice in early intervention; however, many barriers exist that can prevent early interventionists (EIs) from implementing it. This mixed method study was designed to understand if EIs’ perceived use of caregiver coaching changed after Illinois’ COVID-19 pandemic stay-at-home order. Questionnaire data and interview data were analyzed together to explore changes reported by participants. Findings show that participants believed they used coaching practices and coached within routines more often following the stay-at-home order and that their changes in caregiver coaching had an impact on families (e.g., increased caregiver engagement, child progress, more meaningful intervention). Findings suggest that the stay-at-home order evoked a much-needed change in caregiver coaching. Implications include the need for research on contributors to EIs’ use of caregiver coaching and how to effectively use modeling. Implications for practice suggest that EIs should explain coaching to families and individualize their approach to promote family engagement in their children’s intervention.
The Adoption and Implementation of Artificial Intelligence Chatbots in Public Organizations: Evidence from U.S. State Governments
Authors: Chen Tzuhao , Gascó-Hernandez Mila , Esteve Marc
Published: September 2023

Although the use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in public organizations has increased in recent years, three crucial gaps remain unresolved. First, little empirical evidence has been produced to examine the deployment of chatbots in government contexts. Second, existing research does not distinguish clearly between the drivers of adoption and the determinants of success and, therefore, between the stages of adoption and implementation. Third, most current research does not use a multidimensional perspective to understand the adoption and implementation of AI in government organizations. Our study addresses these gaps by exploring the following question: what determinants facilitate or impede the adoption and implementation of chatbots in the public sector? We answer this question by analyzing 22 state agencies across the U.S.A. that use chatbots. Our analysis identifies ease of use and relative advantage of chatbots, leadership and innovative culture, external shock, and individual past experiences as the main drivers of the decisions to adopt chatbots. Further, it shows that different types of determinants (such as knowledge-base creation and maintenance, technology skills and system crashes, human and financial resources, cross-agency interaction and communication, confidentiality and safety rules and regulations, and citizens’ expectations, and the COVID-19 crisis) impact differently the adoption and implementation processes and, therefore, determine the success of chatbots in a different manner. Future research could focus on the interaction among different types of determinants for both adoption and implementation, as well as on the role of specific stakeholders, such as IT vendors.
Development of a proof-of-concept prototype amid limited face-to-face interactions: A case study of an engineering two-student team
Authors: Medina Uzcátegui Luis , Mardones Fernández José , Pailapán Neicuán Alex , Cárdenas Villegas Miguel
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 crisis has necessitated the exploration of alternative learning methodologies to address the challenges of online education, especially in the context of teamwork. This case study examined the effectiveness of a small student team through a project focused on designing, fabricating, and testing a proof-of-concept prototype, specifically a Level 3 prototype according to the technology readiness level (TRL) scale. The project was predominantly carried out under the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. The student team consisted of two undergraduate engineering students with prior experience in project-based learning (PBL) courses. The effectiveness of this teamwork in the current project was found to be strongly influenced by attributes such as shared goals and values, commitment to team success, constructive feedback, and accountability. However, the students’ previous experiences in larger teams indicated that characteristics such as ideal team composition, leadership, and open communication were more prominent in those contexts. While team size may explain these differences, further research is necessary to establish definitive conclusions. The contributions of each student to the teamwork were characterized by independence and self-pacing, which played a crucial role in achieving the desired project outcomes. In conclusion, this case study emphasizes the importance of adapting to remote teamwork scenarios and provides strategies for effective project management. The findings highlight the significance of shared goals, commitment, feedback, and accountability in fostering effective teamwork. Moreover, the contributions of independence and self-pacing were instrumental in navigating the challenges posed by limited face-to-face interactions. Future research should investigate the impact of team size on team dynamics, the development of self-regulation skills in similar contexts, and the dynamics of teamwork when students lack experience in a PBL course. These investigations will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of effective teamwork strategies in diverse educational settings. The insights gained from this study contribute to the ongoing discussion on effective teamwork strategies in remote learning environments.
Effect of valve leaflet surface patterning on valve hydrodynamic performance
Authors: Wang Aili , Wang Yumiao , Liu Wanbing , Liu Li , Zhou Jianye
Published: September 2023

Objective:

We aimed to elucidate the effects of the micro-structure of the pyrolytic carbon for artificial heart valves on its hydrodynamic performance.

Methods:

Bileaflet mechanical valves of GKS 23 and 29 A were randomly selected. According to ISO5840, mean transvalvular pressure (MPG), regurgitation fraction (RF), and effective orifice area (EOA) of valve were assessed. Then, parallel-groove pattern was constructed by laser etching on leaflet surface, and the valves were subjected again to the same test.

Results:

Compared with before patterning at 2, 3.5, 5, and 7 L/min, the MPG of the valves in two specifications were higher, the EOA was larger in 23 A, but smaller in 29 A, and the RF was contrary to EOA. At 5 L/min, the RF in both specifications was lower after etching at 45 bpm. At 70 bpm however, the RF in 23 A decreased, in 29 A increased.

Conclusion:

The parallel-groove pattern on leaflet surface affected the hemodynamic performance of the valve prostheses.
Activation of GPR81 aggravated intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced acute lung injury via HMGB1-mediated neutrophil extracellular traps formation
Authors: Yili Sun , Xinyi Dai , Kerui Fan , Kun Chen , Yang Yongqiang , Zhang Li , Hu Kai
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (II/R) injury is a life-threatening situation accompanied by severe organ injury, especially acute lung injury (ALI). A great body of evidence indicates that II/R injury is usually associated with hyperlactatemia. G-protein-coupled receptor 81 (GPR81), a receptor of lactate, has been recognized as a regulatory factor in inflammation, but whether it was involved in II/R injury-induced ALI is still unknown.

Methods

To establish the II/R injury model, the superior mesenteric artery of the mice was occluded gently by a microvascular clamp for 45 min to elicit intestinal ischemia and then a 90-min reperfusion was performed. Broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissues were obtained to evaluate the lung injury after II/R. The pulmonary histopathological alteration was evaluated by H&E staining. The concentration of proteins, the number of infiltrated cells, and the level of IL-6 were measured in BALF. The formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) was evaluated by the level of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and myeloperoxidase- double-stranded DNA (MPO-dsDNA) complex in BALF, and the content of citrullinated histone H3 (Cit-H3) in lung tissue. The level of HMGB1 in the BALF and plasma was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Administration of the GPR81 agonist 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHBA) aggravated II/R injury-induced lung histological abnormalities, upregulated the concentration of proteins, the number of infiltrated cells, and the level of IL-6 in BALF. In addition, DHBA treatment increased the level of dsDNA and MPO-dsDNA complex in BALF, and promoted the elevation of Cit-H3 in lung tissue and the release of HMGB1 in BALF and plasma.

Conclusion

After induction of ALI by II/R, the administration of DHBA aggravated ALI through NETs formation in the lung.
The Influence of Political Fit, Issue Fit, and Targeted Political Advertising Disclosures on Persuasion Knowledge, Party Evaluation, and Chilling Effects
Authors: Hirsch Melanie , Binder Alice , Matthes Jörg
Published: September 2023

The availability of online data has altered the role of social media. By offering targeted online advertising, that is, persuasive messages tailored to user groups, political parties profit from large data profiles to send fine-grained advertising appeals to susceptible voters. This between-subject experiment ( N = 421) investigates the influence of targeted political advertising disclosures (targeting vs. no-targeting disclosure), political fit (high vs. low), and issue fit (high vs. low) on recipients’ party evaluation and chilling effect intentions. The mediating role of targeting knowledge (TK) and perceived manipulative intent (PMI), two dimensions of persuasion knowledge, are investigated. The findings show that disclosing a targeting strategy and a high political fit activated individuals’ TK, that is, their recognition that their data had been used to show the ads, which then increased the evaluation of the political party and individuals’ intentions to engage in future chilling effect behaviors. High political fit decreased individuals’ reflections about the appropriateness of the targeted political ads (i.e., PMI), which then increased party evaluation. Issue fit did not affect individuals’ persuasion knowledge.
Quality of life, fatigue, sleep quality, and mental health in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with a high cardiovascular risk profile
Authors: Caruso Mazzolani Bruna , Infante Smaira Fabiana , Mendes Sieczkowska Sofia , Romero Marina , Toledo Ribeiro Thainá , Cordeiro Amarante Milla , Pasoto Sandra , de Sá Pinto Ana Lúcia , Rodrigues Lima Fernanda , Braga Benatti Fabiana , Bonfa Eloísa , Roschel Hamilton , Gualano Bruno
Published: September 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients report worse health-related quality of life (HRQL), fatigue, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality, when compared to the general population and other chronic diseases. Furthermore, cardiometabolic diseases are highly prevalent in SLE and are also associated with these parameters. Thus, it is plausible to suggest that SLE patients with a high cardiovascular risk may report worse results for these parameters. The aim of the study is to describe HRQL, fatigue, anxiety and depression symptoms, and sleep quality in a sample of SLE patients with a high cardiovascular risk profile (i.e., BMI between 25 and 40 kg/m2 and/or dyslipidemia, hypertension, or diabetes). This was a cross-sectional study where patients were assessed for (i) demographic, anthropometric, and disease-related parameters, (ii) HRQL, (iii) fatigue, (iv) anxiety and depression symptoms, and (v) sleep quality. One-hundred patients completed the study; however, only 87 patients were assessed for sleep quality data. Patients averaged 41.7 ± 9 years, and most patients were classified as overweight/obese (87%). SF-36 scores for physical and mental components summary were 51.3 ± 9.6 and 54.2 ± 15.6, respectively, with “bodily pain” and “role emotional” presenting the lower scores. The total SLEQOL score was 105.1 ± 42.0, with lower scores reported for “self-image” and “mood.” Fatigue score was 30.8 ± 8.9, and 78% and 93% reported severe symptoms of anxiety and depression, respectively. The average sleep effectiveness was 82.9 ± 6.6%. Sleep latency, total time in bed (TTiB), and total sleep time (TST) were 8.4 ± 8.9, 495.8 ± 79.7, and 409.7 ± 69.9 min, respectively. Patients reported an average of 17.8 ± 6.2 WE, with 4.5 ± 1.5 min duration and a WASO of 77.7 ± 36.6 min. Despite similar HRQL, fatigue, and sleep quality parameters to those reported by other SLE populations, SLE patients with a high cardiovascular risk had a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety. Understanding SLE patients’ quality of life and psychological symptoms is of utmost importance to improve disease management. The findings of this study highlight the need for more intensive and global care regarding mental health when considering a high cardiovascular risk in SLE.
Repairing Mechanisms for Distal Airway Injuries and Related Targeted Therapeutics for Chronic Lung Diseases
Authors: Xu Huahua , Pan Guihong , Wang Jun
Published: September 2023

Chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), involve progressive and irreversible destruction and pathogenic remodeling of airways and have become the leading health care burden worldwide. Pulmonary tissue has extensive capacities to launch injury-responsive repairing programs (IRRPs) to replace the damaged or dead cells upon acute lung injuries. However, the IRRPs are frequently compromised in chronic lung diseases. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of somatic stem cell subpopulations within distal airway epithelium and the underlying mechanisms mediating their self-renewal and trans-differentiation under both physiological and pathological circumstances. We also compared the differences between humans and mice on distal airway structure and stem cell composition. At last, we reviewed the current status and future directions for the development of targeted therapeutics on defective distal airway regeneration and repairment in chronic lung diseases.
Coercion, Control and Criminal Responsibility: Exploring Professional Responses to Offending and Suicidality in the Context of Domestically Abusive Relationships
Authors: Munro Vanessa E. , Bettinson Vanessa , Burton Mandy
Published: September 2023

Significant strides have been made in the law's recognition of harms arising from domestic abuse. In England and Wales, the Serious Crimes Act 2015, and in Scotland, the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, have supported a more holistic understanding of the dynamics of abuse and the means by which coercion and control are deployed to cement and supplant perpetrators’ violence. In this article, we explore what the introduction of these offences means in other situations where questions regarding the impact of abuse upon victims’ agency arise: specifically, where victims commit an offence that might have been compelled by abusive behaviour or take their own lives in contexts that might indicate perpetrators’ liability for suicide. In particular, drawing on interviews with professionals across both jurisdictions, we highlight the precarity of recognition of the effects of coercive control and the need to engage in more complicated discussions about when and why context matters.
Understanding the Software of the Mind, Self and Culture: The Scientific Foundation of Indigenous and Cultural Psychology
Authors: Kim Uichol , Kim Jisun
Published: September 2023

The understanding of the nature and the software of the mind has generated immense debate in religion, philosophy, sciences and psychology. Drucker notes that the basic assumption about the reality is the foundation for science, axiom and algorithm adopted for the theory, concept and method. The assumption differentiates what is important from what is noise. In the medieval Europe, the Catholic Church provided a unified theory of the world as a reflection of God’s grand design and purpose. They held the power to define and thus had the power to control people’s lives. Their power was challenged during the Renaissance with the emergence of humanism. The Cartesian duality of separating the mind from body allowed the separation of church and state and science to flourish. In East Asia, Confucius articulated a different set of assumptions. Humans are defined as ingan 人間 (‘human between’) and assume relationship and compassion as the basic foundation. This is the basis of the cultural difference and theory of the mind. The Darwinian Evolutionary Theory replaced the religious definition, Cartesian duality, and empathy with the biological traits, instincts and natural selection. Psychology adopted the biological model to explain human behaviour. Research in paleoanthropology, genetics, and neurobiology outline the limitations of the biological model in explaining the human mind and behaviour. Bandura has documented the importance of human agency, consciousness, and self-efficacy in explaining human behaviour and provided empirical results with greater predictive and explanatory power than the traditional psychological theories. Indigenous and cultural psychology represents the continuation of the assumptions, theory and concepts outlined by Wilhelm Wundt and Albert Bandura. Kim outlines the transactional model of science, where human agency (measured by self-efficacy) can explain a person’s performance and outcome. Empirically, the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the 85-year longitudinal study, found the unexpected results that challenge the previous held assumptions. Waldinger and Schulz have found that maintaining good relationship is the most important predictor of happiness, health and longevity and not high income, success, IQ and personality. Kim and Kim found that for Millennials and Gen Z, happiness is predicted by relational and social efficacy, positive outlook, and receiving social support from family, friends and online communities, replicating previous results found across three generations and for the past 25 years in Korea. These results point to the importance of examining the basic assumptions of the theories in psychology and the scientific foundation of indigenous and cultural psychology.
Is sport's ‘gateway for inclusion’ on the latch for ethnic minorities? A discourse analysis of sport policy for inclusion and integration
Authors: Dowling Fiona
Published: September 2023

Scholars have increasingly called for the need to problematise and critically examine sport policy for integration/inclusion. This article aims to contribute to this ongoing debate by presenting a Foucauldian-inspired discourse analysis of the languaging of three decades of Norwegian sport policy for integration/inclusion, as well as non-sport policy that seeks to use sport as a policy tool. The analysis demonstrates how ideas and practices about the integration of ethnic minorities in sport are constructed in the shadows of the ‘real business’ of sport. Self-evident ‘Truths’ about inclusion/integration convey simplistic notions of assimilation into existing sport practices, reify notions of homogenous groups both with regard to the majority and the ethnic minority Norwegian population, distributing power unequally across the majority–minority divide, and contribute to construct sport as a racially coded, Eurocentric practice. The pervasive, long-standing idea that sport is inclusive works discursively to marginalise contradictory ideas, such as the complexities of integration that focus upon the need for a transformation of structures and practices, and ‘Truths’ like resourceful ethnic minorities or an adaptable sports organisation remain currently almost unthinkable. The analysis bears witness to scholars’ claims for the need to broaden research methodologies and policies for integration in/through sport, such that inequitable, Eurocentric, assimilated practices can be re-languaged to enable hybrid, transnational sports spaces frequented by resourceful participants.
Orthopaedic surgery academic productivity – how do we measure up?
Authors: Croker Nicholas , Panwar Yash , Balogh Zsolt J
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Research is vital for evidence-based surgery. Understanding scientometric differences among surgical specialties has scope to inform discussions within and across surgical specialities to develop and maintain a culture of research productivity. This study aims to quantify Australian orthopaedic surgical academic productivity compared to the other specialties within the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’ (RACS).

Methods

A list of Australian surgeons registered with RACS was compiled using the “find a surgeon” function on the RACS Web site. This list was cross-referenced with the specialty databases on their respective websites. A name search of the SCOPUS database for each individual surgeon was performed. For each individual h-index, m-index, total active publishing years, total publications, and total citations were collected.

Results

Orthopaedic surgeons had the equal lowest h-index median 2 (interquartile range:3), the shortest duration involved in research median 5 years (14), produced the fewest articles median 2 (7) and attained the second lowest number of citations median 28 (116) of the Australian surgical specialties. When the 10 individuals with highest h-index are compared among specialties, orthopaedic surgeons rank second with a median of 37 (6.5).

Conclusion

Our objective data provides a factual comparison and baseline assessment of one aspect of research productivity. It can challenge currently held perceptions of performance and can inform conversations about strategic development. We recommend this assessment to other international Colleges and Societies on regular basis. These accurate academic productivity metrics provide opportunity for developing and maintaining a culture of sustained, significant contribution to surgical research.
High On-Treatment Platelet Reactivity in Patients Undergoing Complex Percutaneous Coronary Interventions
Authors: Urban Lukáš , Ingrid Škorňová , Žolková Jana , Ján Staško , Bolek Tomáš , Samoš Matej
Published: September 2023

Patient response to P2Y12 inhibitor therapy is heterogeneous, and those with high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) are at an increased risk of thrombotic complications. The aim of our study was to determine whether selecting a high-risk patient group of individuals after complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) would show the clinical benefit of HTPR testing for preventing thrombotic complications. Blood samples of patients after complex PCI were acquired 1 day and 1 month after the intervention. The samples were tested using vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein phosphorylation (VASP-P) and platelet function assay (PFA). The occurrence of clinically significant stent thrombosis with repeated revascularization of the target vessel was observed over a 1-year period. One day after PCI, 37% of patients had HTPR as established by VASP-P. One month after PCI, the percentage of patients with HTPR decreased to 30.9%. According to PFA, 1 day after PCI, 33.3% of patients had HTPR. This percentage declined to 19.8% after 1 month. All measurements identified a significantly higher proportion of HTPR in patients on clopidogrel compared to ticagrelor and prasugrel. Two cases of early stent thrombosis and 1 case of late stent thrombosis were identified. Further study of adenosine diphosphate receptor blocker on-treatment response in patients undergoing complex PCI is necessary.
Clinical Values of Coagulation Factors X, XI, and XII in Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis During Perinatal State
Authors: Li Ming , Duan Shibo , Xu Guowei , Li Song , Sun Min , Hou Xiuzhen , Jin Yan
Published: September 2023

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) has become a rare but potentially life-threatening condition in perinatal women. Early and rapid identification of CVST in pregnant women is a challenge for frontline clinical workers. In this study, 40 perinatal patients with CVST in our hospital were included in the five-year period, and 120 normal perinatal pregnant women in the obstetrics and gynecology department of our hospital were randomly enrolled in the five-year period as the control group, including 60 cases in pregnancy and puerperium. 5 mL of fasting venous blood was collected from puerperal CVST patients in the acute phase of onset (within 72 h of onset) and the recovery phase (fourth week of treatment). In the control group, 5 mL of fasting venous blood was collected. Coagulation factors X, XI, and XII, plasma D-Dimer were analyzed and compared. Coagulation factors X, XI, and XII in plasma of CVST patients were significantly increased compared with controls. Plasma coagulation factors X, XI, and XII and their combined detection (Union Model = 0.056 * FX: C + 0.046 * FXI: C + 0.081 * FXII: C) have diagnostic values for perinatal CVST. Plasma coagulation factors X, XI, and XII were significantly positively correlated with plasma D-dimer levels in perinatal CVST patients. Plasma coagulation factors X, XI, and XII have diagnostic values for perinatal CVST.
Predictive Factors and Clinical Events Associated with Edoxaban Interruption and Heparin Bridging Strategy: EMIT-AF/VTE
Authors: Santamaria Amparo , Chen Cathy , Colonna Paolo , von Heymann Christian , Saxena Manish , Vanassche Thomas , Jin James , Unverdorben Martin
Published: September 2023

Patients treated with edoxaban may require diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that involve edoxaban interruption. Although heparin bridging strategies are not recommended, heparin is frequently used in clinical practice. However, whether heparin use decreases thromboembolic risk remains unclear, and the potential for increased periprocedural bleeding remains a concern. Here, we report factors predicting edoxaban interruption and the use of heparin bridging strategies and associated clinical events from Global EMIT-AF/VTE, a multicenter, prospective, noninterventional study (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02950168). Eligible patients are adults with atrial fibrillation or venous thromboembolism treated with edoxaban who underwent a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. Edoxaban interruption, heparin bridging strategies, and clinical event data were collected from 5 days before procedure through 29 days afterwards. Edoxaban was interrupted in 1222/2089 procedures (58.5%); a heparin bridging strategy was used during 178 (14.6%) of these interruptions. Patients who received periprocedural heparin had higher baseline HAS-BLED (2.4±1.0 vs 1.9±1.1, P <0.0001) scores and similar CHA2DS2-VASc (3.6±1.6 vs 3.4±1.6, P = 0.09) scores versus patients who did not. HAS-BLED score >3 and high EHRA procedural risk predicted both edoxaban interruption and the use of a heparin bridging strategy, whereas CHA2DS2-VASc scores did not predict either. Bleeding and ischemic event rates were low; the all-bleeding rate was higher with the use of a heparin bridging strategy versus without (6.2% vs 3.1%, P = 0.04). Periprocedural heparin use was associated with higher bleeding rates, but not with lower thromboembolic risk. Individual patient and procedural bleeding risks appear to contribute more than stroke risk to clinicians’ consideration of a heparin bridging strategy.
Prenatal Androgen Excess Induces Multigenerational Effects on Female and Male Descendants
Authors: Abruzzese Giselle Adriana , Ferreira Silvana Rocio , Ferrer Maria José , Silva Aimé Florencia , Motta Alicia Beatriz
Published: September 2023

Background:

It is still unelucidated how hormonal alterations affect developing organisms and their descendants. Particularly, the effects of androgen levels are of clinical relevance as they are usually high in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Moreover, it is still unknown how androgens may affect males’ health and their descendants.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the multigenerational effect of prenatal androgen excess until a second generation at early developmental stages considering both maternal and paternal effects.

Design And Methods:

This is an animal model study. Female rats (F0) were exposed to androgens during pregnancy by injections of 1 mg of testosterone to obtain prenatally hyperandrogenized (PH) animals (F1), leading to a well—known animal model that resembles PCOS features. A control (C) group was obtained by vehicle injections. The PH-F1 animals were crossed with C males (m) or females (f) and C animals were also mated, thus obtaining 3 different mating groups: Cf × Cm, PHf × Cm, Cf × PHm and their offspring (F2).

Results:

F1-PHf presented altered glucose metabolism and lipid profile compared to F1-C females. In addition, F1-PHf showed an increased time to mating with control males compared to the C group. At gestational day 14, we found alterations in glucose and total cholesterol serum levels and in the placental size of the pregnant F1-PHf and Cf mated to F1-PHm. The F2 offspring resulting from F1-PH mothers or fathers showed alterations in their growth, size, and glucose metabolism up to early post-natal development in a sex-dependent manner, being the females born to F1-PHf the most affected ones.

Conclusion:

androgen exposure during intrauterine life leads to programing effects in females and males that affect offspring health in a sex-dependent manner, at least up-to a second generation. In addition, this study suggests paternally mediated effects on the F2 offspring development.
The impact of medical insurance on health care access and quality for people with multiple sclerosis in the United States: A scoping review
Authors: Moghavem Nuriel , Castañeda Gloria del Rosario , Chatfield Amy J , Amezcua Lilyana
Published: September 2023

Background:

In the United States, health insurance coverage and quality mediate access to health care, a key social determinant of health.

Objective:

To perform a scoping review regarding the impact of insurance coverage and benefit design on health care access and both clinical and quality of life outcomes in people with MS (pwMS).

Methods:

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines were followed. A literature search was conducted from January 2010 to February 2022. Included studies were in English, peer-reviewed, US-based, and evaluated elements of insurance and their relationship with access and quality outcomes for adult pwMS.

Results:

Our search identified 1619 articles, of which 32 met inclusion criteria. Privately insured pwMS were more likely to be on disease-modifying therapy (DMT). Increased out-of-pocket spending was associated with lower DMT adherence and greater discontinuation rates. Access to specialty pharmacy programs was associated with improved DMT adherence.

Conclusion:

Health insurance coverage and design strongly influences health care for pwMS in the United States and may be a modifiable social determinant of health. Increased pharmaceutical cost-sharing is associated with declines in DMT utilization and adherence. Further study is needed to better characterize the impacts of other core elements of health insurance, including prior authorization requirements and step therapy.
Living with alternatives: Perceived crises, meaninglessness and efforts for a meaningful life in Indian Hijras
Authors: Verma Sunil K. , Sharad Shivantika , Singh Tushar , Bharti Pankaj
Published: September 2023

To understand the life world of Indian eunuchs who face a stigmatized societal status, the present study adopted an ethnographic approach. The study explored Indian Hijras' experiences vis-à-vis mainstream society. The issues that were explored included their perception of their societal status, their perceptions about the societal reaction towards them and ways they navigate through these challenges to create a meaningful life. A theoretical sample of eight Hijras was drawn and studied using semi-structured interviews and participant observation. Data was analysed using ethnographic content analysis and researcher’s reflection. Results reveal that hijras experience a life of crisis, which is fuelled by rejection in social relationships (particularly family), discrimination and exclusion at an early age, bullying, and their popular perception as sex workers. Their crises is financial (poverty and lack of employment opportunities), social and psychological (questioning one’s gender identity), resulting in isolation, loneliness, feeling of being abandoned, of being wronged, and perceived life dissatisfaction. All these factors contribute to meaninglessness in the lives of hijras and they start questioning their existence. Their efforts for a meaningful life revolve around cultivating familial relationships through adopting children, taking up parenting roles and nurturing the guru-chela relationship. Results also reveal positive experiences, that is largely due to their political participation and social service. The study has important policy implications for the Hijras. There is a need to create awareness about the unique life challenges of the Hijras, and help promote social justice and their right to education and employment.
The meanings of disability-related activities and disability identities: A qualitative analysis of narratives of people with physical disabilities in Japan
Authors: Tagaki Masakuni
Published: September 2023

The study examines the meanings of disability-related activities narrated by people with physical disabilities in Japan based on the narrated disability identity. Semi-structured interviews are conducted with 11 Japanese participants with physical disabilities. The interview transcription is analyzed with a qualitative analysis method developed in Japan, and six categories are obtained. The participants narrate their daily disability-related experiences in a social and political context. The daily activities contribute to other people with disabilities and the individuals themselves. Allowing support reflects the modesty norm in Japan and allows individuals to maintain their regular new relationship. The participants attending disability-related activities might consider themselves mediators between their predecessors and successors because they facilitate young people with disabilities, allowing them to succeed in their disability-related activities. The disability community is diverse, and these individuals do not maintain relationships with those who sustain similar disabilities; instead, they maintain diversity within their community.
Pronunciation assessment of learners, by learners, and for learners: Effects, validity and reliability, and learners’ perception
Authors: Hua Congchao
Published: September 2023

Studies have reported comparable effectiveness of teacher assessment and learner assessment in promoting second-language (L2) writing skills (Vuogan & Li, 2022; Yu & Lee, 2016). However, whether learner assessment is equally helpful in enhancing L2 pronunciation learning remains underexplored. Addressing this gap, this pretest–posttest quasi-experimental study examined the effects, validity and reliability, and learners’ perception of peer assessment and self-assessment in L2 English pronunciation. The participants, 183 English majors at a university in China, were divided into three groups, each receiving one type of assessment for the segmental and suprasegmental modules of a pronunciation course. The participants’ performances were examined by pre- and post-intervention reading tasks and assessment forms, and their perceptions by a questionnaire survey. Repeated-measures ANOVA tests of the reading task results revealed similar performances by the three groups on segmentals and suprasegmentals. Cronbach’s alpha tests of scores in the assessment forms across the weeks showed high validity and reliability for peer assessment but marginal validity and acceptable reliability for self-assessment. Repeated-measures one-way ANOVA tests and a paired-samples t-test of the questionnaire survey results revealed high confidence in evaluating others’ and own pronunciation but a general preference for teacher assessment, which was perceived to be more effective than the other two types. These findings suggest that L2 English learners can be more self-reliant in pronunciation learning and should be encouraged and guided to be so.