bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixing controlled compression ignition with methanol: An experimental study of injection and EGR strategy
Authors: Gainey Brian , Gandolfo John , Yan Ziming , Lawler Benjamin
Published: June 2022

Methanol is a fuel that can be produced using renewable electricity, green hydrogen, and a carbon-neutral carbon source. As a low-carbon liquid fuel, methanol is a leading candidate as a drop-in replacement fuel for rapid decarbonization of the transportation sector. In this work, methanol is tested experimentally in mixing-controlled compression ignition using a single-cylinder research engine. Specifically, the impact of a double injection strategy and high exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) dilution on performance and emissions parameters are studied. As a single-carbon, oxygenated fuel, methanol has a near-zero sooting potential, meaning there is no soot-NOx tradeoff as EGR dilution is increased. EGR dilution effectively reduces NOx emissions without a significant combustion efficiency or thermal efficiency penalty until the global equivalence ratio exceeds 0.9, at which point, a significant combustion efficiency penalty is incurred in the form of increased CO emissions. If stoichiometric operation with high EGR dilution is considered, engine-out NOx emissions are low, even at very high loads, and NOx aftertreatment is simplified through the use of a three-way catalyst. However, a relative decrease in the net fuel conversion efficiency of up to 8.5% was observed, demonstrating an emissions-efficiency tradeoff. Under lean and stoichiometric conditions, no appreciable agglomeration of particulate matter was observed.
Sample preparation and quantification of polar drug, allopurinol, in human plasma using LCMSMS
Authors: Wong Emily Yii Ling , Loh Gabriel Onn Kit , Goh Chen Zhu , Tan Yvonne Tze Fung , Ng Sharon Shi Min , Law Kian Boon , Cheah Kit Yee , Mohd Hani Farhana , Peh Kok Khiang
Published: June 2022

A fast, selective and reproducible LC-MS/MS method with simple sample preparation was developed and validated for a polar compound, allopurinol in human plasma, using acyclovir as internal standard (IS). Chromatographic separation was achieved using Agilent Poroshell 120 EC-C18 (100 × 2.1 mmID, 2.7 µm) analytical column. The mobile phase was comprised of 0.1%v/v formic acid-methanol (95:05; v/v), at a flow rate of 0.45 mL/min. The effect of different protein precipitation agents used in sample preparation such as methanol, acetonitrile, a mixture of acetonitrile-methanol and a mixture of acetonitrile-acetone were evaluated to optimize the extraction efficiency of allopurinol and IS. The use of acetone-acetonitrile (50:50, v/v) as protein precipitating agent shortened the sample preparation time and improved the recovery of allopurinol to above 93%. The IS-normalised matrix factors at two concentration levels were 1.0, with CV of 5.1% and 4.2%. Allopurinol in plasma was stable at benchtop for 24 h, in autosampler tray for 48 h, in instrumentation room for 48 h, in freezer after 7 freeze-thaw cycles and in freezer for 140 days. Allopurinol stock standard solutions were stable for 140 days at room temperature and in the chiller. The short sample run time of the validated bioanalytical method allowed high throughput analysis of plasma samples in pharmacokinetic study of an allopurinol formulation. The robustness and reproducibility of the bioanalytical method was reaffirmed through incurred sample reanalysis (ISR).
Absence as an affordance: thinking with(out) water on the inland waterways
Authors: Kaaristo Maarja , Visentin Francesco
Published: June 2022

This article extends our understanding of inland waterways by theorising the temporary absences of water in canals and rivers as possibilities for action, that is, affordances. The interplay of temporary absence and presence of water in the inland waterways provides a range of potentialities for various activities and practices. Affordance theory can help us to further theorise material absences and position them as important elements of performing, practicing and interpreting place. We show how temporary absence of water can create spatial, historical and communicative affordances, affording the movement of boats, revealing and recreating the past and raising environmental awareness. The paper is based on semi-ethnographic research on the rivers and canals in the United Kingdom and Italy, featuring document analysis, participant observation and semi-structured interviews with various waterway users.
Damage localization with Lamb waves using dense convolutional sparse coding network
Authors: Zhang Han , Hua Jiadong , Lin Jing , Tong Tong
Published: June 2022

Composite materials are progressively employed in many safety-critical structural applications due to their superior properties. Structural health monitoring techniques based on Lamb waves have been utilized to assess the damages of composite structures. Recently, deep learning algorithms are adopted for damage detection and localization. Identifying valid damage-related features through neural networks is a crucial step in the analysis process. However, most implemented deep learning architectures are still lacking physical interpretability to some extent. In this paper, a dense convolutional sparse coding network (DCSCNet) is presented for Lamb wave-based damage localization in composite structures, providing a possibility to interpret current networks. In DCSCNet, narrowband Hanning windowed toneburst signals are utilized as kernels of the first convolutional layer to learn more meaningful features. Dense connection is theoretically demonstrated in the scope of DCSCNet, which gathers multiple feature maps directly to develop the potential of the network through feature reuse. The multi-layer iterative soft thresholding algorithm with the dense connection is then employed for solving the multi-layer convolutional sparse coding model. Moreover, effective Squeeze-Excitation is introduced as the channel attention module to boost the representational capability of the network. The experimental results demonstrate the high-performance and interpretable characteristics of the proposed DCSCNet, verifying its feasibility and effectiveness in Lamb wave-based damage localization of composite structures.
Are Scale Direction Effects the Same in Different Survey Modes? Comparison of a Face-to-Face, a Telephone, and an Online Survey Experiment
Authors: Stefkovics Ádám
Published: June 2022

A number of previous studies have shown that the direction of rating scales may affect the distribution of responses. There is also considerable evidence that the cognitive process of answering a survey question differ by survey mode, which suggests that scale direction effects may interact with mode effects. The aim of this study was to explore scale direction effect differences between experimental data collected by face-to-face, phone, and online interviews. Three different scales were used in the survey. Few signs of scale direction effects were found in the interviewer-administered surveys, while in the online survey, in the case of the 0–10 scale, responses were affected by the direction of the scale. The anchoring-and-adjustment heuristic may explain these mode differences and the results suggest that the theory provides a better theoretical ground than satisficing theory in the case of scalar questions.
Online Museum Collections as Artifacts: A Case Study of New Guinean Necklaces Illustrating Mathematical Approaches as Diagnostics for Collections Management
Authors: Hamilton Andrew John , Hopwood Bronwyn
Published: June 2022

Mathematical approaches assessing similarity in terms of culture, geography, and zoological components were applied to nine online collections of New Guinean necklaces. When mapped in multidimensional space for peoples, no strong clustering of collections was found, and for provinces two collections formed a distinct cluster from the rest. In zoological space there was no clustering, but one collection occupied a distinctly separate space. A highly significant ( p < .001) effect of collection on the zoological species richness was found. There were significant differences ( p < .05) in zoological entropy between several collections, and a degree of uncertainty or surprise in the zoological composition of the necklace collections. The processes behind such patterns are likely complex, and may reflect issues of funding, unconscious bias, and colonial or missionary histories. The methods explored provide diagnostic tools useful for testing the underlying structures and bias of collections.
Quantitative CT for Preoperative Assessment of Lumbar Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: The Unique Impact of L4 Bone Mineral Density on Single-Level Disease
Authors: Duculan Roland , Fong Alex M. , Carrino John A. , Cammisa Frank P. , Sama Andrew A. , Hughes Alexander P. , Lebl Darren R. , Farmer James C. , Huang Russel C. , Sandhu Harvinder S. , Mancuso Carol A. , Girardi Federico P.
Published: June 2022

Background: Quantitative computed tomography (qCT) efficiently measures 3-dimensional vertebral bone mineral density (BMD), but its utility in measuring BMD at various vertebral levels in patients with lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis (LDS) is unclear. Purpose: We sought to determine whether qCT could differentiate BMD at different levels of LDS, particularly at L4-L5, the most common single level for LDS. In addition, we sought to describe patterns of BMD for single-level and multiple-level LDS. Methods: We conducted a study of patients undergoing surgery for LDS who were part of a larger longitudinal study comparing preoperative and intraoperative images. Preoperative patients were grouped as single-level or multiple-level LDS, and qCT BMD was obtained for L1-S1 vertebrae. Mean BMD was compared with literature reports; in multivariable analyses, BMD of each vertebra was assessed according to the level of LDS, controlling for covariates and for BMD of other vertebrae. Results: Of 250 patients (mean age: 67 years, 64% women), 22 had LDS at L3-L4 only, 170 at L4-L5 only, 13 at L5-S1 only, and 45 at multiple levels. Compared with other disorders reported in the literature, BMD in our sample similarly decreased from L1 to L3 then increased from L4 to S1, but mean BMD per vertebra in our sample was lower. Nearly half of our sample met criteria for osteopenia. In multivariable analysis controlling for BMD at other vertebrae, lower L4 BMD was associated with LDS at L4-L5, greater pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis, and not having diabetes. In contrast, in similar multivariable analysis, greater L4 BMD was associated with LDS at L3-L4. Bone mineral density of L3 and L5 was not associated with LDS levels. Conclusion: In our sample of preoperative patients with LDS, we observed lower BMD for LDS than for other lumbar disorders. L4 BMD varied according to the level of LDS after controlling for covariates and BMD of other vertebrae. Given that BMD can be obtained from routine imaging, our findings suggest that qCT data may be useful in the comprehensive assessment of and strategy for LDS surgery. More research is needed to elucidate the cause-effect relationships among spinopelvic alignment, LDS, and BMD.
Effects of Fu’s subcutaneous needling on mitochondrial structure and function in rats with sciatica
Authors: Li Yaping , Gao Xianghui , Huang Hailiang , Zhou Xiyan , Zang Yunhua , Chou Li-Wei
Published: June 2022

To observe the effects of Fu’s subcutaneous needling (FSN) and acupuncture treatment on the mitochondrial structure and function of the skeletal muscle tissue of rats with sciatica. Forty Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into control, model, acupuncture, and FSN groups (10 each) according to a random number table. The control group was left untreated. Rats in the FSN group were treated with FSN once every 2 days for three times, respectively (days 1, 3, 5, and 7), to cooperate with reperfusion approach. The acupuncture group was treated at the same timeline as that of the FSN group. Changes in the mechanical pain threshold, mitochondrial ultrastructure, mitochondrial citrate synthase (CS) activities, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex II, and mitochondrial COX- I protein expression in the skeletal muscle of rats treated with different treatments were compared with those of the model group. The pain thresholds of the rats were remarkably higher after FSN treatment and acupuncture, and the pain threshold of the FSN group was higher than that of the acupuncture group. Compared with the control group, the mitochondria of the model group had a damaged ultrastructure, were arranged in a disorganized manner, accumulated under the basement membrane, and appeared vacuolated with autophagosomes. The state of mitochondria in the FSN group was close to that in the control group and was remarkably better than that in the acupuncture group. The activities of mitochondrial CS and respiratory chain complex II in the skeletal muscle of the treated rats decreased compared with the control group ( p < 0.05), and their levels were better in the FSN group than in the acupuncture group ( p < 0.05). FSN treatment for 1 week considerably improved the pain thresholds and improved the skeletal muscle mitochondrial ultrastructure and mitochondrial function in rats with sciatica.
Progression and parole: The perceived institutional consequences of maintaining innocence in prison in England and Wales
Authors: Burtt Emma
Published: June 2022

Drawing on interviews via letter with 64 prisoners maintaining innocence across England and Wales, this article examines the perceived institutional consequences of claiming innocence within the prison environment. A myriad of areas, ranging from everyday living conditions, risk assessment, progression to ultimately parole, are all believed to be impacted by claims of wrongful conviction. As this article illustrates, such a position is often inconsistent with Prison Service Orders and Instructions. These prisoners are thus required to engage and work within a system that is not designed for them and that they believe penalises them as a result of their claims.
Causes of admission and outcomes of white-tailed eagles Haliaeetus albicilla in wildlife rescue centres in the Czech Republic during 2010–2020
Authors: Rozsypalová Lenka , Rymešová Dana , Stýblo Petr , Literák Ivan
Published: June 2022

Admission records from wildlife rescue centres can help identify causes of morbidity for species of conservation concern, and to assess the effectiveness of rehabilitation. This study documents the causes of admission and outcomes of treatment in 68 white-tailed eagles admitted to rescue centres in the Czech Republic. We determine the factors that contribute to the outcome of rehabilitation. Most admitted birds were juveniles (1st calendar year [CY]; n = 25), followed by immatures (2nd–4th CY; n = 23) and adults (≥5 CY; n = 17). We categorised admission causes into (1) trauma-related cases (most often unknown trauma, followed by collision and intraspecific fights), (2) non-trauma cases (weakness, toxicosis and becoming stuck in mud or entangled in rope) and (3) orphaned young birds. Trauma-related admissions were most numerous totalling 59%, non-trauma admissions accounted for 35% with the remaining 6% comprising orphaned young birds. At least a third of eagle admissions were caused by anthropogenic factors. In total, 40% of admitted eagles were released back to the wild, 35% died or were euthanized and 25% remained permanently in captivity. Eagles admitted due to non-trauma-related causes had a significantly higher probability of being released into the wild than those admitted due to trauma. Immature eagles were less likely to be released than juvenile individuals. Admissions data are valuable for conservation research, allowing for trends in threats towards species of conservation concern to be quantified, over time, throughout human-dominated landscapes.
Spontaneous tumour lysis syndrome as a rare presentation of thymoma with peripheral blood lymphocytosis
Authors: Nyanti Larry E , Tang Andy Sing Ong , Ismail Adam Malik b , Chew Lee Ping , Leong Tze Shin
Published: June 2022

Tumour lysis syndrome is common in haematological malignancies but is rarely reported in solid tumours. Peripheral blood lymphocytosis is an autoimmune feature of thymomas. We report a 63-year-old female who presented with a mediastinal mass, spontaneous tumour lysis syndrome and a leukoerythroblastic picture on peripheral blood film. Bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy ruled out haematological malignancy. Subsequent biopsy of the mediastinal mass confirmed thymoma. This is the first reported case of thymoma with peripheral blood lymphocytosis presenting with spontaneous tumour lysis syndrome. Clinicians are reminded that solid tumours may masquerade as haematological malignancies in the presence of peripheral blood lymphocytosis, hence careful clinical evaluation is needed to differentiate between the two diagnoses.
The patient acceptability of a remotely delivered pain management programme for people with persistent musculoskeletal pain: A qualitative evaluation
Authors: Booth Gregory , Zala Sonia , Mitchell Chloe , Zarnegar Roxaneh , Lucas Andrew , Gilbert Anthony W
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Remotely delivered pain management programmes have been offered in place of in-person programmes by many chronic pain services since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a lack of evidence regarding the acceptability of these programmes. In this evaluation, we have explored patients’ acceptability of a remotely delivered pain management programme for patients with persistent musculoskeletal pain.

Methods

Qualitative data were collected using focus groups with participants who had previously attended the remote pain management programme. Data were analysed using abductive analysis.

Results

Three focus groups were conducted with a total of 13 participants. The programmme was either entirely acceptable, had some acceptable components or was not acceptable to patients. Factors leading to the programme being acceptable include learning to manage pain from home, receiving high quality care from home, enhancing the potential of rehabilitation using technology, enabling attendance on a pain management programme from home, overcoming social distancing requirements of COVID-19 using technology, and virtual peer support. Factors leading to the programme not being acceptable include having an inappropriate home environment for virtual therapy, communication challenges with virtual therapy, technological issues and concerns regarding the quality of care.

Conclusions

There is a spectrum of acceptability with respect to the remote programme. The factors that influence this are dynamic, individual and situational. Hybrid programmes have the potential to enhance access to pain management programmes and improve patient experience and programme outcomes in the future.
A novel mutation of SLC12A3 gene causing Gitelman syndrome
Authors: De Silva Neomal , Pathmanathan Sivatharshya , Sumanatilleke Manilka , Dematapitiya Chinthana , Dissanayake Preethi , Wijenayake Umesha , Subasinghe Vindya , Dissanayake Vajira
Published: June 2022

A 48-year-old patient with a history of diabetes mellitus, presented to a surgical ward with abdominal pain. She was found to have hypokalemia. Her younger sister had passed away due to sudden cardiac death at the age of 25 years. Further evaluation revealed an elevated trans-tubular potassium gradient suggestive of renal potassium loss, normal blood pressure, hypomagnesemia, hypocalciuria, and alkalosis. Moreover, there was evidence of secondary hyperaldosteronism. Genetic studies revealed two heterozygous mutations of the SLC12A3 gene, including a novel mutation which has not been reported before anywhere in the world. She was treated with intravenous potassium supplementation and was later converted to oral potassium and oral magnesium supplementation with spironolactone. Her potassium and magnesium levels normalized and glycaemic control also improved. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia found in Gitelman syndrome may be associated with insulin resistance and correction of electrolytes can lead to better glycaemic control.
A case of a delayed granulomatous reaction on the face following microneedling: A case report
Authors: Heck Emma , Traboulsi Danya
Published: June 2022

Background:

Microneedling is a common non-invasive procedure used for a variety of dermatologic conditions. It is associated with a low rate of adverse events which are typically temporary. Hypersensitivity reactions, including granuloma formation, are a rare adverse event, with only 10 cases previously reported.

Case Summary:

We report a case of a 49-year-old female who presented with asymptomatic edematous erythematous annular plaques on her left cheek following a microneedling procedure in which a Vitamin C cosmeceutical was applied to the skin beforehand. Skin biopsy confirmed non-necrotizing granulomatous dermatitis with negative tissue cultures. Systemic workup for sarcoidosis was negative.

Conclusion:

Delayed facial granulomatous reaction is an uncommon adverse event following microneedling. Increased risk may be related to peri-procedure use of cosmeceuticals such as Vitamin C. Given the popularity of microneedling, and that it is an unregulated procedure, it is important for dermatologists to be aware of this possible sequela in order to counsel patients appropriately and understand management options.
Translanguaging: Leveraging Multilingualism for Scripture Engagement
Authors: Hatcher Timothy , Son Sangsok
Published: June 2022

Members of multilingual communities conceptualize language differently from the way monolinguals do. Most Bible agencies model monolingual approaches to engaging with the Bible. Some agencies emphasize gateway languages while others highlight vernacular languages. Many multilinguals prefer an unbounded, performative approach to languages that reflects their dynamic, hybridized identities; one term for this is translanguaging. Translanguagers make meaning by using words from their full linguistic repertoire. Using translanguaging theory and methodologies, Bible agencies can model Scripture engagement approaches that more naturally correspond to the language practices of many multilinguals.
Pancreatic leiomyosarcoma in a domestic shorthair cat
Authors: Bobis Villagrá Diego , Almeida Mariana , Cox Alistair , Henderson Elisabeth
Published: June 2022

Case summary

A 7-year-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented with weight loss, abdominal distension, lethargy, pyrexia and hyporexia. Haematology and biochemistry were unremarkable. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a cystic mass within the left cranial abdominal quadrant, adjacent to the pancreas, stomach and spleen. CT revealed a 10.5 cm, rounded, well-encapsulated, hypodense mass arising from the left pancreatic lobe. The remaining organs of the abdominal and thoracic cavity were unremarkable. A partial left lobe pancreatectomy and splenic lymph node removal were performed. Histopathology of the pancreatic mass reported a proliferating population of neoplastic spindle cells most consistent with a preliminary diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma. Immunohistochemistry characteristics, together with the morphological findings, were consistent with a diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. The patient recovered without any concerns after receiving routine postoperative care. Clinical examination and abdominal ultrasound 5 months postoperatively revealed no abnormalities.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this is the first report of pancreatic leiomyosarcoma in a cat. Pancreatic leiomyosarcoma should be considered as one of the possible differential diagnoses for cats presenting with a pancreatic mass.
Potential improvements to women’s care pathways after gestational diabetes: a qualitative study
Authors: Ottesen Anna Camilla , Plougmann Stine Nørgaard , Nielsen Jane Hyldgaard , Larsen Rikke , Overgaard Charlotte
Published: June 2022

Women with prior gestational diabetes face a highly increased risk of type 2 diabetes and are difficult to recruit for follow-up care, possibly due to a loss of professional support in the care pathway. This study aimed to explore Danish health professionals’ experiences of the challenges in the care pathway for women with prior gestational diabetes, the obstacles to continuity of care, and the possibility of better preventing type 2 diabetes. Qualitative semi-structured interviews with 12 healthcare professionals were conducted. The interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis. The study adheres to the COREQ checklist. The findings are organized into five main categories. The conclusions indicate that gestational diabetes is easily overlooked due to a lack of information sharing and continuity across health care delivery systems. Creating a management plan and engaging general practice nurses as designated health professionals may improve the care pathway and better prevent type 2 diabetes.
Anti-authoritarian attitudes after democratic movements: Evidence from the June Struggle of 1987 in South Korea
Authors: Jung Hoyong
Published: June 2022

A momentous democratic protest against an authoritarian regime can affect individuals’ social attitudes. This study empirically examined the impact of democratic movements on anti-authoritarian attitudes by focusing on the June Struggle of 1987 in South Korea, which was one of the most successful democratic uprisings in Korean history. Using representative survey data, we compared cohorts who started college before and after the year of the June Struggle. Because the year of college enrollment itself can act as an endogenous variable, we applied the fuzzy regression discontinuity method, using birthdate as an instrumental variable. We found that individuals who began attending college after the successful democratic movement tended to demonstrate stronger anti-authoritarian attitudes in their late thirties. A battery of robustness tests supported the results. This study's results reaffirm the argument that historical events can have enduring effects on social attitudes, helping us to understand one potential mechanism explaining anti-authoritarian attitudes in Korean society.
Investigation of Balance of Payment Constrained Growth Model: The Impact of Export Growth, Capital Flows, and Real Effective Exchange Rate on Growth of the UK
Authors: Shingil Musa Esuwa , Ozdeser Huseyin , Saliminezhad Andisheh
Published: June 2022

The present article employs balance of payment constrained growth model (BPCG) to investigate the relevance of exports, capital movements as well as relative prices on growth performance of the United Kingdom from 1970 to 2018. It makes use of autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) for the analysis. It was found that the innovative BPCG model is suitable for the explanation of growth experience of the UK. Accordingly, Keynesian mechanism-income plays the dominant adjustment role in restoring equilibrium. More interestingly, the inclusion of relative prices and capital flows in the balance of payments constraint model tends to influence the levels of output but they do not exert any substantial effect on the balance of payment equilibrium growth rate of the UK. In conclusion, the prosperity and growth of the world (OECD countries) and the expansion of exports would help in guaranteeing the steady-state of the UK economy.
Board Diversity and Corporate Investment Decisions: Evidence from China
Authors: Ali Farman , Ullah Muhammad , Ali Syed Tauseef , Yang Zhen , Ali Imran
Published: June 2022

We investigate the relation between board diversity and corporate investment decisions. We select four diversity attributes namely, gender, age, tenure, and education diversity to find its impact of corporate investment. Further, we classify these four diversity attributes into surface-level and deep-level diversity to check its impact on investment. Analyzing Chinese non-financial firms over the period of 2003 to 2017, we employ fixed effect regression to test the formulated hypotheses. We deal with the endogeneity concerns and employ several robustness tests. We find that board gender, tenure, and education diversity reduce corporate investment level. Further, we find that gender and age diversity are negatively associated with sensitivity of investment to growth opportunities, while tenure and education diversity are positively related to investment-Q sensitivity. We find that surface-level diversity reduces the sensitivity of investment to growth opportunities, while deep-level diversity positively affects investment-Q sensitivity. Overall, our findings suggest that board’s surface-level diversity is associated with inefficient investment policies, while deep-level diversity improve the corporate investment decisions. This study shows that board diversity play a decisive role in corporate investment decisions. Policies should be devised to mitigate the negative role of surface-level diversity. Furthermore, as deep-level diversity improves investment decisions, organizations and policy-makers should encourage it in order to get benefits of a diverse board. Majority of prior studies consider one dimension of diversity, such as gender, to test its impact on investment decisions. This study shows how surface-level diversity attributes (low job related) and deep-level diversity attributes (highly job related) affect board decisions. This study comprehensively analyzes the impact of board diversity on corporate investment decisions in an emerging economy.
Fans not Customers! Kategoria in the Rise and Demise of the European Super League
Authors: Milford Mike
Published: June 2022

In 2021, the twelve largest soccer clubs in the world created a new league that promised high-level competition between the sports’ elites. Three days later, the Euro Super League was no more. Much of the credit for its demise is attributable to the various groups who spoke out strongly against the organization. The collective rhetoric took on the qualities of kategoria, a speech of accusation that proceeds apologia. While there is a wealth of research on apologia, there is little on kategoria as a discrete rhetorical act. Kategoria sits at the intersection of community and morality. Rhetors position themselves above the accused and utilize the community’s collective identity to streamline the complexities of contemporary sports into simpler moral issues. In the case of the Super League, an analysis of the six English Premier League clubs and their supporters clubs shows this principle at work. The supporters secured a place of moral authority and charged the owners with ethical failure. They asserted that the owners were out of touch with the spirit of English soccer due to their single-minded greed.
Commercially pure titanium modification to enhance corrosion behavior and osteoblast response by ECAP for biomedical applications
Authors: Hashemi Peyman Mahmoudi , Borhani Ehsan , Nourbakhsh Mohammad Sadegh
Published: June 2022

When it comes to using bio-metals, the chemical and biocompatibility properties of titanium led to its widespread use in biomedical implants. However, pure titanium possesses lower mechanical properties than Ti alloys containing cytotoxic elements. Severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques were able to cause a significant strength increase, corrosion behavior improvement, and the release of the alloying elements. In this study, the ECAP process was performed on commercially pure titanium with a square cross-section at two and four passes, which resulted in a finer grain size and a more uniform microstructure. In order to improve cell behaviors, etch treatment was performed to produce nano-rough and nano-texture surfaces for all Ti samples. The effect of surface etching on corrosion, surface roughness, and cell behaviors on ECAP and untreated samples was also investigated. Optical/Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy, and X-Ray Diffraction were used to study the microstructural characterizations of samples. In addition, the impact of grain structure on the contact angle, electrochemical corrosion behavior, osteoblast response, and cell viability was investigated. The titanium that was ECAPed four times provided finer grains (200 nm) than the unprocessed sample (25 µm). The potentiodynamic polarization test revealed that corrosion resistance of ECAPed samples was enhanced, which was associated with grain refinement, affecting the passive film formation. Corrosion resistance and wettability experienced an apparent increase after each ECAP pass. In conclusion, improvement of grain size and surface roughness was due to the simultaneous effect of ECAP and etching treatment that led to the osteoblast response and cellular activity of samples.
Unfolding the Dimensions of HRD Activities in Pakistan: An Interview with Mr Jawaid Iqbal (CEO, Board of Director and Chairman)
Authors: Patoli Faheem Ahmed , Soomro Noman , Raza Saqlain
Published: June 2022

Human Resource Development (HRD) is a source of competitive advantage and a fundamental approach to achieve organisational objectives. Considering the lack of empirical pieces of evidence. A need was felt to unfold and understand the HRD dimensions adopted by the Pakistani organisations. An interview-based methodology was opted to obtain the required information. The interview’s key themes involved HRD; needs, strategies, role in managing workforce diversity, organisational development initiatives and concern for technology. The interview’s core purpose remained limited to unfold the HRD activities in line with the identified themes. The interview was concluded with challenges, future roles, and recommendations and competencies for HRD professionals in Pakistan with broader and generalised implications to the South Asian region.
Reported Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccination among Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alhowaymel Fahad , Abdelmalik Mohammed A. , Mohammed Almoez M. , Mohamaed Mohamaed O. , Alenezi Atallah
Published: June 2022

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, is a major international crisis. Although vaccination is the only hope to end this pandemic, adverse effects attributable to vaccines are still being reported. Active surveillance is critical for generating near-real-time, high-quality evidence for potential safety hazards, allowing us to respond quickly to vaccination

Purpose

To investigate the prevalence of side effects following COVID-19 vaccination with Oxford–AstraZeneca among adults in northwestern Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional and community-based study performed among individuals who had received any type of COVID-19 vaccination. A convenience sampling method was used to collect data using an online survey.

Results

A total of 222 individuals responded to the survey, and the majority frequently reported both localized and systemic side effects after vaccination. The most reported side effects include pain at the site of injection, myalgia, headache, and fever. Some demographic factors were significantly associated with the reported post-vaccination side effects.

Conclusion

The most prevalent side effects experienced by individuals after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine were determined in this study. Prior to the administration of a vaccination, counseling programs should be established to help people understand and deal with the possible side effects, with a special focus on demographic differences.
“Making do”: Religious segregation and everyday water struggles
Authors: Mawani Vrushti
Published: June 2022

I illustrate through this paper how contemporary water (in)justice results from interactions between historical, socio-political, technical, and economic relations, and how such water (in)justice is emotionally experienced and embodied. Focusing on the case of Faizalpur, a low-income Muslim neighborhood in segregated Ahmedabad, I draw on lived experiences approaches to water justice and on an emotional political ecology framework to offer a multi-scalar analysis set across urban, community, and individual scales. I show how the settlement of low-income Muslim families in Faizalpur is inseparable from both the (il)legal status of this land and the religious segregation that have shaped this city. In turn, everyday experiences of water injustice in Faizalpur are premised in contestations relating to the site's land use zoning history. I illustrate how in this contested site carefully framed requests make municipal water infrastructure possible even though such infrastructure is technically disallowed here. The careful-ness of such requests lies in skirting issues pertaining to (il)legality, instead activating other discursive categories, such as ‘humanitarian’ need: categories that possess the moral power to outweigh legal and technical arguments. I suggest that everyday experiences of water (in)justice cannot be understood without attending to the discursive power of planning terms like ‘illegality’ and ‘land use zoning’. Emotionally experienced everyday water struggles in Faizalpur, in the form of anger, trust, fear, grief, etc., need to be understood then as emotional everyday experiences of religious segregation.
Safety and efficacy of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty for obesity management in new bariatric endoscopy programs: a multicenter international study
Authors: Sarkar Avik , Tawadros Augustine , Andalib Iman , Shahid Haroon M. , Tyberg Amy , Alkhiari Resheed , Gaidhane Monica , Kedia Prashant , John Elizabeth S. , Bushe Bryce , Martinez Guadalupe Ma , Zamarripa Felipe , Carames Mine C. , Carames Juan C. , Casarodriguez Fernando , Bove Vincenzo , Costamagna Guido , Boskoski Ivo , Kahaleh Michel
Published: June 2022

Background:

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an incisionless procedure that reduces the size of the gastric cavity. In prior studies, it has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for obesity. In this study, we performed a collaborative study to evaluate the effectiveness of ESG among new endobariatric programs.

Methods:

This was an international, multicenter study reviewing the outcomes of ESG in centers starting ESG programs. Total body weight loss, change of body mass index (BMI), excess body weight loss (EBWL), technical success, duration of hospitalization, and immediate and delayed adverse events and complications at 24 h, 1 week, and 1, 3, and 6 months post-procedure were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 91 patients (35 males) from six centers were included. The patients’ mean BMI before the procedure was 38.7 kg/m2. BMI reduction at 3 months was 7.3 ( p < 0.000), at 6 months 9.3 ( p < 0.000), and at 12 months 8.6 ( p < 0.000) from baseline. EBWL was 17.3% at 1 month ( p < 0.000), 29.2% at 3 months ( p < 0.000), and 35.6% at 6 months ( p < 0.000). The mean procedure duration was 85.1 min. The mean length of hospital stay post-procedure was 27 h.

Conclusion:

ESG provides EBWL percentage sustained up to 12 months. These results are equivalent among the new ESG centers compared to previous studies by expert centers.

Lay title

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty in new bariatric endoscopy programs:

Plain Language Summary

This article is the result of a collaborative international study on new endoscopic programs offering endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty. The minimally invasiveness and increasing accessibility of this technique makes it very attractive for patients with obesity while being poor candidate for surgery or refusing surgery. This study will also provide valuable information regarding this rising technique of endobariatric treatment.
Advancing the reporting of mechanisms in implementation science: A guideline for reporting mediation analyses (AGReMA)
Authors: Cashin Aidan G , McAuley James H , Lee Hopin
Published: June 2022

Well-conducted mediation analyses have the potential to move implementation science forward by better understanding how or why implementation strategies cause their effects on outcomes. The AGReMA statement provides authors with recommendations for reporting primary and secondary mediation analyses of randomized trials and observational studies. Improved reporting of studies that use mediation analyses could help produce publications that are complete, accurate, transparent, and reproducible.
Health Care Providers’ Attitude and Satisfaction Toward Patient-Oriented Services Provided by Pharmacy Technicians at Three Faith-Based Hospitals
Authors: Ntani Suh Nsutebu , Tchue Ngong Ferdinand
Published: June 2022

Background:

Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians often work together to provide optimal pharmacy services, however, some low-middle-income countries lack strong regulatory mechanisms and have an inadequate number of pharmacists, necessitating some hospitals to rely on pharmacy technicians providing direct patient care services.

Objectives:

This study sort to investigate health care providers’ attitudes and satisfaction toward patient-oriented pharmacy services offered by pharmacy technicians at 3 faith-based hospitals in Cameroon.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April 2021. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 159 health care providers (HCPs) in 3 institutions of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services. The questionnaire was made up of 3 parts evaluating HCPs’ attitudes and satisfaction.

Results:

A total of 140 questionnaires were completed (88.1%) response rate. The majority of respondents were female (70%) and <35 years (60.7%). Almost all respondents showed a positive attitude toward pharmacy technicians’ role in patient education (90%) and provision of medication information (93.6%). However, only 46% agreed that pharmacy technicians should take medication histories. The majority of respondents were satisfied with overall pharmacy services (80.7%). Only 25% were satisfied with pharmacy technicians’ participation in ward rounds. Gender was associated with attitude of respondents ( P = 0.02). Factors associated with satisfaction of respondents included profession ( P = 0.047) and work experience ( P = 0.008).

Conclusions:

Our results revealed a positive attitude and overall satisfaction with technician-led patient-oriented pharmacy services. Additional training, clear job descriptions, and direct pharmacist supervision could ensure the quality and safety of these services.
Amino acid stress response genes promote L-asparaginase resistance in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Ferguson Daniel C. , McCorkle J. Robert , Barnett Kelly R. , Bonten Erik J. , Bergeron Brennan P. , Bhattarai Kashi Raj , Yang Wenjian , Smith Colton , Hansen Baranda S. , Bajpai Richa , Dong Qian , Autry Robert J. , Gocho Yoshihiro , Diedrich Jonathan D. , Crews Kristine R. , Pruett-Miller Shondra M. , Roberts Kathryn G. , Stock Wendy , Mullighan Charles G. , Inaba Hiroto , Jeha Sima , Pui Ching-Hon , Yang Jun J. , Relling Mary V. , Evans William E. , Savic Daniel
Published: June 2022

Understanding the genomic and epigenetic mechanisms of drug resistance in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is critical for further improvements in treatment outcomes. The role of transcriptomic response in conferring resistance to l-asparaginase (LASP) is poorly understood beyond asparagine synthetase (ASNS). We defined reproducible LASP response genes in LASP-resistant and LASP-sensitive ALL cell lines as well as primary leukemia samples from newly diagnosed patients. Defining target genes of the amino acid stress response-related transcription factor activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) in ALL cell lines using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) revealed 45% of genes that changed expression after LASP treatment were direct targets of the ATF4 transcription factor, and 34% of these genes harbored LASP-responsive ATF4 promoter binding events. SLC7A11 was found to be a response gene in cell lines and patient samples as well as a direct target of ATF4. SLC7A11 was also one of only 2.4% of LASP response genes with basal level gene expression that also correlated with LASP ex vivo resistance in primary leukemia cells. Experiments using chemical inhibition of SLC7A11 with sulfasalazine, gene overexpression, and partial gene knockout recapitulated LASP resistance or sensitivity in ALL cell lines. These findings show the importance of assessing changes in gene expression following treatment with an antileukemic agent for its association with drug resistance and highlight that many response genes may not differ in their basal expression in drug-resistant leukemia cells.
Resistance to single dose albendazole and reinfection with intestinal helminths among children ages 2 to 11 years from the Peruvian Amazon region: a study protocol
Authors: Curico Greisi , García-Bardales Paul , Pinedo Tackeshy , Shapiama Wagner , Moncada-Yaicate Miguel , Romaina Lucero , Yori Pablo P. , Paredes-Olortegui Maribel , Meza-Sánchez Graciela , Lescano Andrés G. , Paz-Soldan Valerie A. , Schiaffino Francesca , Oberhelman Richard A. , Kosek Margaret N.
Published: June 2022

Background

Deworming programs aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality from geohelminth infections are common in many countries where these infections are endemic, but data demonstrating increasing levels of resistance to albendazole and mebendazole are causes for concern. Studies to evaluate the clinical efficacy of deworming programs are critical to maintain high infection control goals.

Methods

We propose to assess the clinical efficacy of Peruvian national guidelines for deworming programs in a prospective observational study conducted in the Amazon River basin area near Iquitos, Peru. Major outcomes to be evaluated include (1) albendazole resistance of intestinal helminths (trichuriasis, ascariasis, hookworm), and (2) frequency of reinfection with intestinal helminths 4 months after treatment with albendazole. Children ages 2–11 years from the Belén District of Iquitos will be identified based on a community census. Following parental informed consent, demographic data, weight, and height will be recorded and a stool specimen for parasitological exam by direct observation and Kato-Katz concentration method, and helminthic egg counts will be collected prior to administration of albendazole, following Peruvian national guidelines. Follow-up stool specimens examined in the same manner will be collected at 20 days, 90 days, and 100 days following initial administration of albendazole, and based on parasites found repeat treatment will be administered in accordance with national guidelines. Real-time multiplex qPCR will be performed on helminth positive samples collected prior to initial deworming and on helminth-positive specimens detected on day 15–20. A total sample size of 380 participants was calculated based on total population in the target group and prevalence estimates of helminth infections and clinical resistance based on recent data.

Discussion

Data from observational clinical efficacy studies are important to guide geohelminth infection control programs.

Trial registrationhttps://www.researchregistry.com/. Identification number: researchregistry7736; Registered retrospectively March 13, 2022; https://www.researchregistry.com/browse-the-registry#home/registrationdetails/622e024cf06132001e3327bf/