bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rheological and textural analysis as tools for investigation of drug-polymer and polymer–polymer interactions on the example of low-acyl gellan gum and mesalazine
Authors: Gadziński Piotr , Osmałek Tomasz Zbigniew , Froelich Anna , Wilmańska Oliwia , Nowak Agata , Tatarek Adam
Published: January 2022

Purpose. In the performed study, the rheological and textural parameters of gellan-based hydrogels were investigated and their dependence on three factors was taken into consideration: ( i) The presence of the model drug, ( ii) The presence and type of the ionic crosslinking agent, and ( iii) the composition of the polymer network. The objective was to compare two analytical methods, regarded as complementary, and define to what extent the obtained results correlate with each other. Methods. The hydrogels contained low-acyl gellan gum or its mixtures with hydroxyethyl cellulose or κ-carrageenan. CaCl2 and MgCl2 were used as gelling agents. Mesalazine was used as a model drug. The rheological analysis included oscillatory stress and frequency sweeping. The texture profile analysis was performed to calculate texture parameters. Results. Placebo gels without the addition of gelling agents had the weakest structure. The drug had the strongest ability to increase the stiffness of the polymer network. The weakest structure revealed the placebo samples without the addition of gelling agents. Texture analysis revealed no significant influence of the drug on the strength of the gels, while rheological measurements indicated clear differences. Conclusions. It can be concluded that in the case of some parameters methods correlate, that is, the effect related to gelling ions. However, the rheological analysis seems to be more precise and sensitive to some changes in the mechanical properties of the gels.
Electrospun Polycaprolactone (PCL)-Amnion Nanofibrous Membrane Promotes Nerve Repair after Neurolysis
Authors: Dong Ruiyi , Tian Siyu , Bai Jiangbo , Yu Kunlun , Liu Chunjie , Liu Lei , Tian Dehu
Published: January 2022

Peripheral nerve adhesion after neurolysis leads to nerve dysfunction, limiting nerve regeneration and functional recovery. We previously developed an electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL)-amnion nanofibrous membrane for preventing adhesion formation. In this study, we investigated the effect of protective nerve wrapping and promoting nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve compression model. A total of 96 SD rats after sciatic nerve chronic compression were randomly divided into three groups: the PCL-amniotic group, in which nerves were wrapped with a PCL-amniotic membrane for treatment; the chitosan group, in which nerves were wrapped with a clinically used chitosan hydrogel; the control group, which involved neurolysis alone without treatment. Twelve weeks postoperatively, the nerve regeneration was evaluated by general and ultrastructure observation, as well as the expressions of neuronal regeneration and inflammatory reaction biomarkers. The nerve functions were assessed with gastrocnemius muscle measurement, hot-plate test, and walking track analysis. Compared with the chitosan hydrogel, the PCL-amnion nanofibrous membrane significantly reduced peripheral nerve adhesion and promoted nerve regeneration. The morphological properties of axons in the nerve wrap group were preserved. Intraneural macrophage invasion, as assessed by the number of CD68-positive cells, was less severe in the PCL-amnion group than in the other groups. Additionally, the gastrocnemius muscle weight and muscle bundle area were significantly higher in the PCL-amnion group than those in the chitosan group. The abilities of sense and movement of the rats in the PCL-amnion group were significantly improved compared to the other groups. In summary, electrospun PCL-amnion nanofibrous membranes effectively prevented post-neurolysis peripheral nerves from developing adhesion, whereas promoted nerve repair and regeneration, which make PCL-amnion nanofibrous membranes a promising biomaterial for clinical application.
Poly (ε-caprolactone)/Poly (lactic acid) fibers produced by rotary jet spinning for skin dressing with antimicrobial activity
Authors: Rosa Juliana C , Bonvent Jean J , Santos Arnaldo R
Published: January 2022

The rotary jet spinning technique permits the production of biomaterials that can be used as devices that come into contact with biological systems (including biological fluids) for diagnostic or surgical applications. These materials are composed of synthetic or natural compounds and allow the incorporation of drugs for therapeutic purposes. Two solutions containing 50% poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and 50% poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) diluted in three different solvents were prepared for rotary jet spinning (RJS) process. Vancomycin, an antibiotic indicated for the treatment of severe staphylococcal infections in patients with penicillin allergy, was added in the polymer solutions, to obtain drug-loaded fibrous mats. Morphological surface characterization by scanning electron microscopy revealed heterogeneous pores in the microfibers. Vancomycin loading interfered with the morphology of all samples in terms of fiber size, leading to smaller diameter fibers. Attenuated total reflectance/Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used for identification of the samples. The vibrational characteristics of PCL/PLA and vancomycin were consistent with expectations. Vero cell culture assays by the extract dilution and direct contact methods revealed the absence of cytotoxicity, except for the sample prepared with 50% of PCL and of a 9/2 (V/V) vancomycin content, with the growth of confluent and evenly spread cells on the fibrous mats surface. Microbiological analysis, performed on Staphylococcus aureus by the halo inhibition test and by the broth dilution method, showed that the antibacterial activity of vancomycin was maintained by the loading process in the polymer fibers. The results showed that rotary jet spinning produces satisfactory amounts of Vancomycin-loaded fibers, as potential web dressing for wound repair
Gender and Trajectories of Marital Breakdown: Accounts of Chinese Immigrant Women in Canada
Authors: Zhou Yanqiu Rachel , Sinding Christina ,   Lisa Watt (1972–2018), Gahagan Jacqueline , Micollier Evelyne
Published: January 2022

The relatively sparse literature has documented various challenges international migration poses to martial stability, yet we know little about immigrant women's experiences with marital breakdown. Drawing data from a qualitative study of Chinese economic immigrants to Canada, this article explores women's experiences of navigating the processes of this life circumstance, and of how gender—including their senses of changing gender roles in post-immigration and postmarital contexts—plays out in these trajectories. The results of this exploratory study illustrate the value of transcending dichotomous conceptions of the relationship between gender and migration, and of opening spaces in which to better understand immigrant women's increasingly diversified life trajectories and the range of barriers they encounter along the way. The study also reveals multiple opportunities for social work contributions: tackling systematic barriers to settlement, facilitating social support in the community, and recognizing individuals’ diverse trajectory potentials (including the potential for this typically unwelcome event to be integrated as personal growth and transition).
Berserk!: Anger and the Charismatic Populism of Donald Trump
Authors: Joosse Paul , Zelinsky Dominik
Published: January 2022

This paper explores the role anger plays in charismatic movements. Although scholars have long recognized the importance of emotions to the etiology of charisma, they tend to focus on mutual affection among leaders and followers, paying less attention to how anger—and particularly its subspecies, ressentiment—patterns charismatic power. Drawing on literature from political science, populism research, and the cultural sociology of charisma, we argue that ressentiment, which is associated with self-disvalue and an invidious need to blame outsiders, is key to theorizing the emotional energy that charisma delivers to revolutionary upheaval. The Weberian source for the intervention is his lesser known concept of ‘berserk-charisma’. Reorienting the focus of charisma research to account for its aggressive, ‘outward’ dimension has the benefit of drawing us closer to the vision Weber had for its social-historical relevance. We demonstrate our insights using the case of charismatic/populist support for Trump.
Novel resonance stability criterion for the 2D magnetically levitated servo-proportional valve
Authors: Xu Hao , Meng Bin , Zhu Chenhang , Li Sheng , Ruan Jian
Published: January 2022

The leakage of the pilot stage of the 2D valve mainly depends on the size of its initial opening. According to the Routh criterion, the pilot stage of the two-dimensional magnetically levitated servo-proportional valve (2D-MSP valve) needs to be designed to have certain positive values to increase the damping ratio to improve valve stability, which leads to the leakage flow representing a non-negligible power loss. In order to reduce leakage flow and achieve goal of energy saving, this paper presents a novel resonance stability criterion by considering nonlinear characteristics of the fluid dynamic system. First, the 2D-MSP valve is regarded as a three-way valve-controlled differential cylinder system. Based on the frequency response of the resonance state, the energy conservation method is used to solve the flow “backfilling” area, the motion equation of the cylinder piston (valve spool displacement) and the pressure waveform of the sensing chamber under different opening and pressure amplitude ratio. Then, the analytical expression of the resonance peak amplitude is obtained and the resonance stability criterion is deduced. The result is compared with the Routh stability criterion, which illustrates that the positive openings of the pilot stage can be reduced to one-third of the original value. The prototype valve is then designed and manufactured based on the resonance stability criterion. The dynamic and static characteristics under different system pressures are measured. Experimental results show that the prototype valve is an over-damped system without any overshoot, which has excellent working stability, and its static and dynamic performance can meet the demands of the industry servo-proportional control system. The research work validates the effectiveness of the proposed resonance stability criterion.
A semi-analytical model on the critical buckling load of perforated plates with opposite free edges
Authors: Fu Weigang , Wang Bin
Published: January 2022

Perforated plates are widely used in thin-walled engineering structures, for example, for lightweight designs of structures and access for installation. For the purpose of analysis, such perforated plates with two opposite free edges might be considered as a series of successive Timoshenko beams. A new semi-analytical model was developed in this study using the Timoshenko shear beam theory for the critical buckling load of perforated plates, with the characteristic equations derived. Results of the proposed modelling were compared with those obtained by FEM and show good agreement. The influence of the dividing number of the successive beams on the accuracy of the critical buckling load was studied with respect to various boundary conditions. And the effect of geometrical parameters, such as the aspect ratio, the thickness-to-width ratio and the cutout-to-width ratio were also investigated. The study shows that the proposed semi-analytical model can be used for buckling analysis of a perforated plate with opposite free edges with the capacity to consider the shear effect in thick plates.
A novel method to improve fatigue behaviors of holed structures based on electromagnetic force
Authors: Zheng Guo , Cao Zengqiang , Zhang Minghao
Published: January 2022

In this study, a novel method stress wave strengthening (SWS) process based on electromagnetic force was proposed to improve the fatigue life of holed structures. Corresponding tests were carried out to explore the fatigue performance of SWS. Cold expansion (CE) was also investigated for comparison. The fatigue life of SWS and CE samples were evaluated, moreover, the mechanisms of fatigue failures and life enhancements were also discussed. Results showed that double-side SWS extended fatigue life significantly and reduced stiffness degradation more effectively with respect to CE process. Moreover, fatigue cracks commonly appeared at mid-planes of hole surfaces and horizontally grew in SWS samples, which differed a lot from CE samples. Through the residual stress measurement, it is seen that more uniform residual stress along axial direction can be obtained by SWS compared to CE, which can explain the fatigue life enhancement and failure mechanism of SWS method.
Suboptimal control synthesis for state and input delayed quadratic systems
Authors: Bouafoura Mohamed Karim , Benhadj Braiek Naceur
Published: January 2022

In this article a suboptimal linear-state feedback controller for multi-delay quadratic system is investigated. Optimal state and input coefficients resulting from the expansion over a hybrid basis of block pulse and Legendre polynomials are first obtained by formulating a nonlinear programming problem. Afterwards, suboptimal control gains are found by solving a least square problem constructed with optimal coefficients of the open loop study. A sufficient condition for the exponential stability of the closed loop is obtained from generalized Grönwall–Bellman lemma. The Van de Vusse chemical reactor case is handled allowing to validate the proposed technique.
Implications of Land Use Land Cover Transformation for Gendered Livelihoods: Insights from Moyna Basin of Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mondal Sreenita , Abraham Daniel Raj P. , Chatterjee Soumi
Published: January 2022

The Moyna basin of West Bengal is experiencing a rapid transformation in land use and land cover (LULC) as waterbodies are rapidly increasing at the expense of low-lying agricultural lands. The transformation in the LULC pattern in Moyna basin has been studied earlier based on the focus of climate change, biodiversity and other environmental issues. However, very little is known about the implications of this transformation on gender roles, responsibilities and livelihoods. This study examines the interconnectedness between LULC transformation and its differential impact on the livelihoods and workload of men and women using an intersectional perspective in three villages across Moyna block. The data were collected using a mixed-method approach and comprised of three major sources of information—observations, photographs and interviews. Results show that the changes in LULC have occurred partly as an impact of climate change and partly due to the inclination towards aquaculture due to decline in profitability of agriculture and farming practices. In the context of these livelihood changes, a fundamental shift in gendered roles has occurred. It has been found that the switch to aquaculture has led to two prominent outcomes, that is, depeasantisation of agricultural workers and defeminisation of the overall workforce. While women and men were equally displaced from agriculture with the advent of aquaculture, women were faced with additional challenges of unequal social gender norms and limited opportunities for alternative employment. It further shows that, the impacts of land use change on livelihoods are diverse and is a complex process as factors, like—class, caste, patriarchal family relations, family structure and the nature of the labour market intersect with gender and it also makes some women more vulnerable than other men and women.
Maximizing experiential co-curricular programs through Stakeholders’ Theory: An explanatory mixed methods study
Authors: Otaki Farah , Naidoo Nerissa , Al Heialy Saba , John-Baptiste Anne-Marie , Davis Dave , Senok Abiola
Published: January 2022

Background: Some medical schools offer co-curricular experiential education programs. Despite the established value of such experiences, there are no published studies that reflect upon the systematic integration of perceptions of primary stakeholders, whose engagement is necessary for program continuity. Purpose: To showcase how stakeholders’ theory can be deployed to holistically evaluate the quality of experiential learning opportunities and the value they offer to all stakeholders. Methodology/Approach: Based on a sequential explanatory mixed methods design, data was solicited from 14 Program Organizers, 107 Participating Students, and 107 Onsite Mentors. Findings/Conclusions: The Program Organizers strongly agreed (95.5%) that the co-curricular program is efficacious. A majority of Participating Students rated the overall quality-of-experience as excellent (81.6%), and most Onsite Mentors rated students’ attendance as excellent (88.7%). There was a dependency between Participating Students’ attendance and extent to which they were engaged in teamwork. The qualitative analysis generated the “Global Citizenship” conceptual framework. Implications: Stakeholders’ theory can be leveraged to broaden the analytic scope of experiential learning, encapsulating the development that occurs at the community level due to individuals’ engagement. This conceptual framework can be utilized by other institutions to guide the development of similar co-curricular programs.
Measurement Invariance of Alabama Parenting Questionnaire Across Age, Gender, Clinical Status, and Informant
Authors: Florean Ionut Stelian , Dobrean Anca , Balazsi Robert , Roșan Adrian , Păsărelu Costina Ruxandra , Predescu Elena , Rad Florina
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to investigate the measurement invariance of the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire (for both long [APQ-lg] and short [APQ-9] forms) across age, gender, clinical status, and informant (i.e., parent vs. child reports). The sample was composed of adolescents (community sample: N = 1,746; clinical sample: N = 166) and parents ( N = 149). The analyses were conducted in R. Measurement invariance was assessed via multi-group confirmatory factor analysis, equivalence test, and subsampling approach. The original model of APQ-lg (five factors) showed a significantly better fit than other concurrent models (five concurrent models were specified, based on prior literature). For APQ-lg, we found measurement invariance across gender and partial measurement invariance across age, clinical status, and informant. For APQ-9, we confirmed the measurement invariance across gender and clinical status, while across age and informant partial measurement invariance was attested. Overall, our study indicated that APQ-lg and APQ-9 are two valid tools for measuring parenting practices with some caveats.
Gender Related Differences in Gastrointestinal Bleeding With Oral Anticoagulation in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Ferroni Eliana , Denas Gentian , Gennaro Nicola , Fedeli Ugo , Pengo Vittorio
Published: January 2022

Background:

DOACs are characterized by a higher incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and this may be different among males and females. Female patients were underrepresented in the DOAC pivotal trials. We aimed to assess real-world differences in gastrointestinal bleeding with oral anticoagulants (DOACs and VKAs) among males and females with atrial fibrillation.

Methods:

We performed a population-based retrospective analysis on linked administrative claims. Atrial fibrillation patients of 65 years and above were considered. Bleeding risk factors were assessed through HASBED and previous history of gastrointestinal disease. A time-to-event analysis compared gastrointestinal bleeding between males and females.

Results:

The overall cohort consisted of 15338 (55% female) DOAC and 44542 (50% female) VKA users. Most of the patients showed HASBED ≥2. Incidence rate of GI bleeding was higher in females as compared to males among DOAC users (0.90% vs 0.59%), and significant gender difference in GI bleeding was found, after adjustment, in the Cox regression analysis (HR 1.48, 95%CI 1.02-2.16). In the VKA group, no significant difference among genders was found in the time-to-event analysis.

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that female patients treated with DOACs have a higher risk of GI bleeding versus male patients; this difference is not observed in VKA patients.
IV Sodium Ferric Gluconate Complex in Patients Hospitalized Due to Acute Decompensated Heart Failure and Iron Deficiency
Authors: Borreda Itay , Zukermann Robert , Epstein Danny , Marcusohn Erez
Published: January 2022

Background:

Patients suffering from heart failure (HF) and iron deficiency (ID) have worse outcomes. Treatment with intra-venous (IV) ferric carboxymaltose has been shown to reduce HF rehospitalizations and to improve functional capacity and symptoms in patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, IV ferric carboxymaltose is significantly more expensive than IV sodium ferric gluconate complex (SFGC) limiting its availability to most HF patients around the globe.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis comparing patients admitted to internal medicine or cardiology departments between January 2013 to December 2018 due to acute decompensated HF (ADHF) and treated with or without IV SFGC on top of standard medical therapy.

Results:

During the study period, a total of 1863 patients were hospitalized due to ADHF with either HFrEF or HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Among them, 840 patients had laboratory evidence of iron deficiency (absolute or functional) and met the inclusion criteria. One hundred twenty-two of them (14.5%) were treated with IV SFGC during the index hospitalization. Patients treated with IV iron were more likely to have history of ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and chronic kidney disease. The rate of readmissions due to ADHF was similar between the groups at 30 days, 3 months, and 1 year.

Conclusion:

High risk patient hospitalized to ADHF and treated with IV SFGC showed comparable ADHF readmission rates, compared to those who did not receive iron supplementation.
D-dimer kit with a High FDP/D-Dimer Ratio is Useful for Diagnosing Thrombotic Diseases
Authors: Ikeda Nozomi , Wada Hideo , Ichikawa Yuhuko , Ezaki Minoru , Tanaka Motoko , Hiromori Shinya , Shiraki Katsuya , Moritani Isao , Yamamoto Akitaka , Shimpo Hideto , Shimaoka Motomu
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Although D-dimer is a useful biomarker of thrombosis, there are many D-dimer kits, with high and low fibrinogen and fibrin degradation products (FDP)/ D-dimer ratios.

Methods

Plasma D-dimer levels were measured using three different kits in critically ill patients to examine the usefulness of such measurements for detecting the thrombotic diseases and determining the correlation with the FDP and FDP/D-dimer ratio.

Results

Although three D-dimer kits showed marked utility for diagnosing disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and peripheral arterial and venous thromboembolism (PAVTE), the D-dimer levels determined using the three kits varied among diseases. Indeed, one D-dimer kit showed a high FDP/D-dimer ratio, and another kit showed a low FDP/D-dimer ratio. D-dimer kit with low FDP/D-dimer ratio tended to have high cut-off values and low specificity for diagnosing DIC and PAVTE. In D-dimer kit with high FDP/D-dimer ratio, FDP/D-dimer ratios in patients with thrombosis was significantly higher than that in patients without thrombosis.

Conclusion

All three D-dimer kits show utility for detecting thrombotic diseases. However, the D-dimer levels determined using the kits varied due to differences in the FDP/D-dimer ratio. In combination with the FDP level, a D-dimer kit with a high FDP/D-dimer ratio may be useful.
Intervention Characteristics Considered in Health Educators’ Adoption Decision-Making Process
Authors: Strayer E. Thomas , Balis Laura E. , Kennedy Lauren E. , Ramalingam NithyaPriya S. , Wilson Meghan L. , Harden Samantha M.
Published: January 2022

It is well known that perceptions of intervention characteristics (e.g., cost, source, evidence strength and quality) are a critical link from dissemination to implementation. What is less known is the process by which researchers understand the characteristics most valued by key intermediaries (i.e., real-world decision-makers), particularly in the federal system of Cooperative Extension. In Extension, university-based specialists are available to assist county-based agents in program selection, delivery, and evaluation. For this work, a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was used to conduct surveys and semi-structured interviews, informed by the Diffusion of Innovations theory and Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Educators and specialists were recruited across 47 states to identify characteristics of health promotion interventions that facilitate the adoption decision-making process. Analysis of intervention attribute importance survey data was conducted through a one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc test to determine individual variable differences between responses. Interviews underwent a conventional content analysis. In total, 121 educators and 47 specialists from 33 states completed the survey. Eighteen educators and 10 specialists completed interviews. Educators and specialists valued components such as the community need for the intervention, and potential reach compared with other components including previous delivery settings and external funding of the intervention ( p < .05). Qualitative data indicated divergence between educators and specialists; educators valued understanding the intervention cost (time and training) and specialists valued the evidence base and external funding available. Intervention developers should communicate information valued by different stakeholders to improve the adoption of evidence-based interventions.
Body mass index as a predictor of MS activity and progression among participants in BENEFIT
Authors: Manuel Escobar Juan , Cortese Marianna , Edan Gilles , Freedman Mark S , Hartung Hans-Peter , Montalbán Xavier , Sandbrink Rupert , Radü E-W , Barkhof Frederik , Wicklein Eva-Maria , Kappos Ludwig , Ascherio Alberto , Munger Kassandra L
Published: January 2022

Background:

There is a lack of studies on the association between obesity and conversion from a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) to multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine whether obesity predicts disease activity and prognosis in patients with CIS.

Methods:

Body mass index (BMI) at baseline was available for 464 patients with CIS in BENEFIT. Obesity was defined as BMI ⩾ 30 kg/m2 and normal weight as 18.5 ⩽ BMI < 25. Patients were followed up for 5 years clinically and by magnetic resonance imaging. Hazard of conversion to clinically definite (CDMS) or to 2001 McDonald criteria (MDMS) MS, annual rate of relapse, sustained progression on Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), change in brain and lesion volume, and development of new brain lesions were evaluated.

Results:

Obese individuals were 39% more likely to convert to MDMS (95% CI: 1.02–1.91, p = 0.04) and had a 59% (95% CI: 1.01–2.31, p = 0.03) higher rate of relapse than individuals with normal weight. No associations were observed between obesity and conversion to CDMS, sustained progression on EDSS or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes, except for a larger reduction of brain volume in obese smokers as compared to normal weight smokers (−0.82%; 95% CI: −1.51 to −0.12, p = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Obesity was associated with faster conversion to MS (MDMS) and a higher relapse rate.
Seeking an adversary: The radical right and the saliency of pro-immigration positions in green party speeches
Authors: Johnston Samuel A. T. , Sprong Stefanie
Published: January 2022

Western European politics has experienced considerable change since the 1980s, with the emergence of new parties and immigration’s politicisation. However, no studies have examined Green party discussions of immigration, or their interaction with radical right parties. We hypothesise that increases in the radical right’s vote share, and the saliency they attach to immigration, will incentivise Greens to discuss immigration more. We also examine an alternative explanation that how salient immigration is for left- and right-wing parties will affect immigration’s saliency for Greens. We test this by applying structural topic models to parliamentary speeches in the Dutch Tweede Kamer for 2002–2019. We find that Greens react to the radical right, as the latter’s vote share is positively associated with immigration’s saliency for Greens, although radical right immigration saliency’s effect is not robust. Furthermore, we do not find evidence that Greens react to immigration’s saliency in left- or right-wing party speeches.
Program, complexity, and system when evaluating sustainable development
Authors: Stame Nicoletta
Published: January 2022

In light of the challenges of the Anthropocene, it is common today for evaluators to propose a systems rather than a program perspective. A program perspective is reproached for its simplicity and linearity, while the systems perspective is praised for its ability to account for complexity and emergence. This article argues that even before the systems perspective appeared on the horizon, the story of program evaluation had been characterized by a confrontation between “simplifiers” and “complexifiers.” It enquires into the lessons that the complexifiers of the evaluation of programs have handed on to evaluators who are facing the current challenges of sustainable development. On the other hand, when analyzing what a systems perspective contributes, the article is alert to the risk that a “holistic” view may ignore lessons complexifiers have to offer. This argument is supported by considering the way in which a systems perspective is understood in the practice of evaluation. Conclusions invite readers to overcome a misleading opposition between the two perspectives and indicate possible cross-fertilization across different units of analysis and approaches.
Exploring the role of strategy instruction on learners’ ability to write authentic email requests to faculty
Authors: Usó-Juan Esther
Published: January 2022

This study used a pre-test post-test research design to investigate the role of explicit strategy instruction on Spanish English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ ability to write authentic email requests to faculty. Drawing on Taguchi’s (2018) classification of pragmatics learning strategies, the instructional intervention followed a strategy-based approach to help learners understand the form–function–context mapping of email requests in the academic context. A total of 110 naturally occurring email requests for action addressed to three faculty members were collected at two different times: as a pre-test (i.e. before engaging learners in the instructional period), and as a post-test (i.e. after learners’ participation in the treatment sessions). Learners’ email messages were analysed considering both their appropriateness of use as well the frequency of utilization of different structural (i.e. subject line, openings and closings) and content components (i.e. request strategies and internal request modifiers). Results showed that strategy instruction helped learners write more appropriate email requests after the instructional period. The findings suggest that arming learners with a variety of strategic tools may lead to pragmatic development in actual language use.
Japanese adolescents’ attitudes towards learning English: A perspective from the self-worth theory
Authors: Leis Adrian , Takemori Tetsushi , Abe Keita , Himori Elisa , Suenaga Rei , Umino Kota
Published: January 2022

In this study, the authors investigated the attitudes of Japanese junior high school students towards studying English from the perspective of the Self-worth Theory. A total of 383 students aged 12 to 15 years participated in the qualitative study. Students were required to write three essays about how they would react under hypothetical circumstances in which their feelings of self-worth might be threatened. The contents of the students’ essays were analysed and matched with mechanisms within the quadrants of Covington’s Quadripolar Model of Achievement Motivation. Overall, the results suggested that the adolescents appeared to show traits of low defensive pessimism, high self-handicapping, and high helplessness, placing the students on the borderline of the Self-protectors and the Failure Acceptors. Reasons for the findings and pedagogical implications will be discussed.
Metaphor and the politics and poetics of youth distress in an evidence-based psychotherapy
Authors: Seligman Rebecca
Published: January 2022

This article explores the relationship between metaphors and emotion in the context of adolescent distress and psychotherapeutic treatment. Drawing on data from an ethnographic study of Mexican American adolescents receiving outpatient treatment for a variety of emotional and behavioral problems, the article examines what I call “prescribed” metaphors deployed in mainstream, manualized child and adolescent Cognitive Behavioral Therapies commonly used in mainstream clinical contexts. I explore the models of emotion communicated to youth by one such metaphor, youth responses to this metaphor, and the potential implications for young people as they take up the underlying models and affective practices embedded in the metaphor. Specifically, I examine how youth respond to messages about emotion metacognition and emotion regulation embedded in a metaphor that equates feelings with temperatures that can be monitored and objectively measured. I find that youth are at once convinced that abstract knowledge about internal states is inherently valuable because it is linked to desired forms of personhood, but also concerned about the limits of technical metaphors to capture aspects of lived experience and the flattening and homogenization of affect that might accompany the practices such metaphors help to enact. I analyze alternative interpretations of prescribed metaphors as well as the spontaneous metaphors used by youth to talk about their emotions and experiences of distress, in an effort to think through the politics and poetics of emotion metaphors in the context of an evidence-based psychotherapy for young people.
Elevators as media objects manipulating information in time
Authors: Laakkonen Mika-Petri , Kivivirta Ville
Published: January 2022

We investigate elevators as media. Our central argument is that elevators manipulate information in time. Time manipulation of elevators (movement data + genetic algorithms) produces temporal order. Elevators have become media objects because they produce data that are digitally manipulated to optimize movement. We conducted an empirical study in a multinational corporation that manufactures elevators, including 4 months of field research at multiple locations and interviewed 64 people. We show how time manipulation changes with the information architecture: first, time manipulation took place inside and during the movement of elevators by pushing the buttons. Second, time manipulation took place in the cloud by statistical mathematics. The latest development is toward decentralized social application where elevators as independent media objects manipulate time using genetic algorithms and communicate with each other. We reveal how largely hidden media affects our temporality and argue that media theory should study its implications in contemporary society.
Compression and morphological properties of a bio-based polyurethane foam with aluminum hydroxide
Authors: Silva EHP , Aguiar JCF , Waldow G , Costa RRC , Tita V , Ribeiro ML
Published: January 2022

Compression and morphological evaluation of a new bio-based polyurethane foam (PUF) with aluminum hydroxide (ATH) added as flame retardant were carried out. The PUF was obtained from a blend of vegetable oils. Compression behavior of the polyurethane with different mass fractions of flame retardant (ATH) was investigated according to ASTM D1621–16. The ATH addition highly increased the compression yield strength of the specimens, going from 0.85 MPa (no ATH) to 2.34 MPa ( + 50%wt ATH). The compression yield strain did not show a noteworthy difference up to 40% ATH, presenting a significant decrement in the PUF + 50%ATH. The compression elasticity modulus increased from 15.40 MPa (no ATH) up to 139.77 MPa ( + 50%wt ATH). SEM images were used in order to evaluate the morphological structure of the foam. Regarding the cell sizes, there was no pattern observed, therefore, the cell sizes were adopted as random. The shapes of the cells were detected as elliptical in two different directions in the same cross-sectional area. The digital image correlation (DIC) technique showed higher strain values where the transverse ellipsoid-shaped cells were located, therefore, the load-oriented ellipsoids presented higher stiffness. Thus, the results for PUF with addition of ATH show that the bio-based material presented an important improvement in the compression properties, which allows this material to become more useful for different applications, such as furniture, building and automobile industries, as well as sandwich structures.
When “Don’t Know” Indicates Nonignorable Missingness: Using the Estimation of Political Knowledge as an Example
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Han
Published: January 2022

The conventional procedure for measuring political knowledge is treating nonresponses such as “don’t know” as incorrect responses and counting the number of “correct” responses. In recent times, increasing attention has been paid to partial knowledge hidden within incorrect and nonresponses. This article explores partial knowledge indicated by incorrect and nonresponses and considers nonresponses as nonignorable missingness. We propose a model that combines the shared-parameter approach presented in the literature on missing data mechanisms and the methods of item response theory. We show that the proposed model can determine whether the people with nonresponses should be treated as more or less knowledgeable and detect whether it is appropriate to pool nonresponses and incorrect responses into the same category. Furthermore, we find partial knowledge hidden within women’s nonresponses, which confirms the possibility of the exaggeration of the gender gap in political knowledge.
Perceptions of Discrimination Predict Retention of College Students of Color: Connections with School Belonging and Ethnic Identity
Authors: Brown Christia Spears , Usher Ellen L. , Coleman Carly , Han Jaeyun
Published: January 2022

This longitudinal study examines (a) whether perceptions of ethnic discrimination during the first weeks of college predicted later school belonging among first-year college students of color ( N  =  638) attending a predominantly White institution (PWI), (b) whether school belonging, in turn, predicted retention to the second year, and (c) whether ethnic identity centrality buffered the effects of discrimination on school belonging and academic retention. Participants completed measures of ethnic discrimination and identity near the beginning of the first semester and school belonging at the end of the semester. Academic data from the fall of the second year were obtained from school records. Tests of moderated mediation revealed that perceptions of discrimination at the beginning of college had an indirect effect on retention in the second year of college, as mediated by lowered school belonging, but only for students with low and moderate (but not high) ethnic identity centrality.
Emerging Opportunities to Improve Treatment Access for Substance Use Disorders and Other Comorbid Health Issues Among Women Enrolled in WIC
Authors: Washio Yukiko , Collins Bradley N. , Kilby Linda M.
Published: January 2022

Women living in underserved communities are at an increased risk for substance use disorders and other comorbid health issues, a public health concern that was exacerbated as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. In response to the challenges the pandemic presented, services delivered by the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) adapted nimbly, including WIC nutrition managers’ and counselors’ efforts to provide reactive referrals of clients raising concern about substance misuse and related consequences. This adaptation signaled an opportunity to consider integrating more proactive, evidence-based strategies for substance use disorders such as standardized brief assessments, advice, and referral procedures (i.e., Screening, Brief Interventions, and Referral to Treatment [SBIRT]), as part of routine WIC operations. Integration of such routine practice would improve the quality of care WIC provides to their clients and families, while addressing a major gap in public health by connecting clients at high risk for substance use disorders and substance-related problems to much needed services. Given the adaptability of WIC to reactively manage the wide array of psychosocial and mental health problems that increased during the pandemic, opportunities exist for future research to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of proactive implementation of brief screening, advice, and treatment referral to reduce substance-related harm among women living in underserved communities.
Endovenous Iliocaval Revascularization for Transplant Kidney Salvage
Authors: Ruyssinck Laure , Lootens Liesbeth , Desender Liesbeth , Moreels Nathalie , Randon Caren
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

We report the case of a venous iliocaval recanalization to preserve a transplant kidney.

Case Report:

A young patient with a nephrotic syndrome caused by focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) underwent a robot-assisted living-donor kidney transplant. The postoperative course was uneventful; serum creatinine at discharge was 1.51 mg/dL (normal range = 0.72–1.17 mg/dL). In the course of the following months, the patient was readmitted repeatedly due to acute kidney failure not related to rejection, recurrent FSGS, or anastomotic stenosis. All episodes started after prolonged standing and renal function improved after bed rest. Several hospital admissions and investigations later, phlebography revealed an occlusion of the inferior vena cava (IVC) and both common iliac veins with large collateral vessels through the azygos system. An endovenous recanalization of the iliocaval tract was performed, with subsequent normalization of transplant kidney function.

Conclusion:

Vascular complications after renal transplantation are an important cause of graft loss. We present an endovenous treatment option for a chronic occlusion of the IVC and common iliac vein with intermittent venous congestion as a cause of transplant failure.
Where to Go Next? Examining the Effect of Franchise Expansion and Location on Game-Level Attendance in Major League Soccer
Authors: Semmelroth Dirk , Frick Bernd , Simmons Robert , Sung Hojun
Published: January 2022

Using a large dataset with over 4,000 game-level observations from Major League Soccer over the period 2006 to 2019 we investigate the determinants of attendance demand. Focusing on franchise expansion and location effects, we find that some decisions made by the organization had positive impacts on league revenues. While going to cities with a large population and already hosting nearby NFL or NBA teams is positively associated with game attendance, the presence of geographically close MLB and NHL teams is detrimental to MLS revenues. Our results suggest a need for a more nuanced and selective approach to MLS expansion policy.
Six-Strand Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon Repairs With and Without Circumferential Sutures: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Lautenbach Géraldine , Guidi Marco , Tobler-Ammann Bernadette , Beckmann-Fries Vera , Oberfeld Elisabeth , Schrepfer Lorena , Hediger Sebastian , Kaempfen Alexandre , Vögelin Esther , Calcagni Maurizio
Published: January 2022

Background:

The purpose of this study is to assess outcomes in flexor pollicis longus tendon repairs with 6-strand core sutures with and without circumferential sutures.

Methods:

A 6-strand core suture technique with and without circumferential sutures was used. Thirty-three patients were summarized in the C group (circumferential group) and 16 patients in the NC group (non-circumferential group). After the surgery, the wrist was stabilized with a dorsal blocking splint and a controlled early active motion protocol was applied. At weeks 6, 13, and 26 data on demographics, type of injury, surgery, postoperative rehabilitation, complications such as re-rupture and the following outcome measurements were collected: range of motion and its recovery according to the Tang criteria, Kapandji score, thumb and hand strengths, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, and satisfaction.

Results:

There were no significant differences in range of motion and strength between the 2 treatment groups. In both groups, the outcome measurements increased over time and they expressed similar satisfaction with the surgical treatment. In 4 patients of the C group tendon repair ruptured and in 1 patient of the NC group.

Conclusions:

Six-strand repair technique is an effective procedure to assure early active motion after flexor pollicis longus tendon injuries and good results can also be achieved by omitting the circumferential suture.
Clinical Outcomes of Severely Angulated Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures Treated Nonsurgically
Authors: France Thomas J. , Leversedge Fraser J. , Lauder Alexander
Published: January 2022

Background:

Reasonable functional outcomes for nonoperative management of isolated, closed fifth metacarpal neck fractures with up to 70° angulation have been reported; however, reported outcomes for fractures with greater than 70° angulation are limited. This study describes clinical outcomes of nonsurgically treated fifth metacarpal neck fractures with angulation of greater than 70°.

Methods:

A retrospective review of patients treated between May 1, 2016, and May 1, 2020, included: (1) patients aged 18 years and above with an isolated, closed, fifth metacarpal neck fracture; (2) nonsurgical treatment; (3) healed fractures with angulation greater than 70° measured on oblique radiographs; and (4) minimum 6-month follow-up after injury. Photographic hand motion and patient-rated outcomes (Functional Hand Scale, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [QuickDASH], 12-item Short-Form Health Survey [SF-12]) were collected and reported.

Results:

A total of 364 fractures were identified; 11% (40/364) demonstrated angulation of greater than 70° (range: 71°-82°); and 15 patients (inclusion rate: 38%, 15/40) with mean fracture angulation of 73° (range: 71°-77°) participated in the study. Mean follow-up was 32 months (range: 8-120 months), the dominant hand was injured in 87% (13/15) of patients, and 47% (7/15) of patients worked in manual labor. All patients scored the highest rating of “very good” (range: 26-30 of 30 points) on the functional hand scale. A QuickDASH score of zero (no morbidity) was reported in 80% (12/15) of patients. About 87% (13/15) of patients had average or above-average scores on the SF-12 (mean = 109, range: 84-115).

Conclusions:

Patients with healed, isolated, closed fifth metacarpal neck malunions with severe angulation greater than 70° demonstrated acceptable functional outcomes based on patient-rated outcomes scoring.