bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women running the party and women running for Congress: An examination of state party diversity and candidate emergence in the 2018 midterm elections
Authors: Geras Matthew J
Published: May 2020

Using a new data set of state political party bylaws and demographics of state party chairs, I evaluate whether women were more likely to run for Congress during the 2018 midterm elections from parties with higher levels of gender diversity. I construct three measures of gender diversity, whether each party was chaired by a woman, granted committee membership to an allied women’s group, and required gender parity among their committee members. Democratic parties are more likely to be chaired by a woman and to require gender parity among their members, but Republican parties are more likely to grant membership to allied women’s groups. Considering the implications of these rules, I find Democratic women were more likely to run for Congress representing parties that grant membership to an allied women’s group and parties chaired by a woman.
Whose dystopia is it anyway? Deepfakes and social media regulation
Authors: Yadlin-Segal Aya , Oppenheim Yael
Published: May 2020

This study explores global journalistic discussions of deepfake applications (audiovisual manipulating applications based on artificial intelligence (AI)) to understand the narratives constructed through global coverage, the regulatory actions associated with these offered narratives, and the functions such narratives might serve in global sociopolitical contexts. Through a qualitative–interpretive narrative analysis, this article shows how journalists frame deepfakes as a destabilizing platform that undermines a shared sense of social and political reality, enables the abuse and harassment of women online, and blurs the acceptable dichotomy between real and fake. This phenomenon is tied to discussions of dis/misinformation, manipulation, exploitation, and polarization in the media ecosystem these days. Based on these findings, the article then provides broader practical and theoretical insights about AI content regulation and ethics, accountability, and responsibility in digital culture.
Migration-related emotional distress among Vietnamese psychiatric patients in Germany: An interdisciplinary, mixed methods study
Authors: Nguyen Main Huong , Lanca Jörg-Christian , Hahn Eric , von Poser Anita , Heyken Edda , Wingenfeld Katja , Burian Ronald , Diefenbacher Albert , Ta Thi Minh Tam
Published: May 2020

Culture and socialization influence how individuals perceive and express emotional distress. Research therefore, must consider the context to capture individual experiences. However, the majority of studies on factors associated with emotional distress among migrants use quantitative approaches, limiting an in-depth understanding. This study investigates emic themes of emotional distress among Vietnamese migrants by integrating anthropological and psychiatric approaches. The mixed methods study first quantified differences in reported themes of distress between Vietnamese ( n = 104) and German ( n = 104) patients, who utilized two psychiatric outpatient clinics in Berlin, Germany. Based on these differences, ethnographic interviews were conducted with 20 Vietnamese patients. In the quantitative part, differences in frequency of reported distress between Vietnamese and German patients indicate cultural and migration-related issues among Vietnamese migrants, such as the upbringing of children in a transcultural context. In the qualitative part, interviews with Vietnamese patients elicited contextualizing information and additional themes of distress. Besides commonly expressed socioeconomic themes, such as work and finances, we identified affectively charged themes concerning roles toward partnership and children. A central emic theme is expressed as “moments of speechlessness,” which go beyond a lack of language proficiency and challenge patients in different spheres of life. Migration entails complex affective dynamics, determined by a specific migratory and post-migratory context. Within this context, norms and values determine which themes of distress patients articulate openly. Therefore, an interdisciplinary, mixed-methods approach can yield a contextualized understanding of emotional distress and the complex nature of migration.
Experimental assessment of the ultimate performance and lateral drift behaviour of precast concrete building cores
Authors: Menegon Scott J , Wilson John L , Lam Nelson TK , Gad Emad F
Published: May 2020

Precast concrete building cores are a widely used lateral load resisting system in low and mid-rise multi-storey buildings. However, despite their widespread use in countries like Australia or New Zealand, a very little research or experimental testing has been undertaken to assess their lateral drift behaviour. This article will present the findings and observations of a recent experimental testing programme into reinforced concrete precast building cores, which included three large-scale ‘box-shaped’ precast building core specimens. Adjacent panels in each specimen were connected together using welded stitch plate connections and then connected to foundation blocks on the top and bottom using grout tube connections. The results of the testing showed that the welded stitch plate connections were too flexible to allow full composite action to be developed in the cross-section, which meant the precast building core specimens were around 25% more flexible than an equivalent cast in-situ version. The testing also highlighted common detailing and construction deficiencies that can severely inhibit the ductility of the core.
Doing reflecting: Embodied solitary confirmation of instructed enactment
Authors: Arano Yusuke
Published: May 2020

Employing conversation analysis, this article investigates instructions in lessons for guitar and Japanese calligraphy. In receiving an instruction, the students in the guitar lessons are expected to immediately follow the instruction. In contrast to the guitar lessons, the students in the calligraphy lessons are not institutionally expected to immediately follow the teacher’s instructions but to receive them. However, the students often gesticulate what they learned from and could make sense of the prior instruction upon completion of an instruction activity. I call this phenomenon embodied solitary confirmation. By demonstrating the interactional procedure for this practice, this article respecifies reflection as an interactional phenomenon and elucidates an organization of multiactivity.
A comparative analysis of knock severity in a Cooperative Fuel Research engine using binary gasoline–alcohol blends
Authors: Corral-Gómez Lis , Rubio-Gómez Guillermo , Rodriguez-Rosa David , Martín-Parra Andrea , de la Rosa-Urbalejo Daniel , Martínez-Martínez Simón
Published: May 2020

Knock remains one of the main limitations for increasing the efficiency in spark-ignition engines. The use of certain alcohol–gasoline blends is an effective way to either mitigate or eliminate knock, allowing the use of higher compression ratios, therefore increasing the efficiency of spark-ignition engines. Methanol and ethanol are alcohols commonly employed for reducing knock, due to their higher octane number and vaporization heat value. Major attention is being paid recently to butanol and its blends with gasoline since they present similar characteristics to gasoline; however, it was found to be the least knock resistant among the three fuels. In the present work, a comparison between the knock performance of methanol–gasoline, ethanol–gasoline and butanol–gasoline blends is carried out, by volume concentrations up to 20 v/v%. This comparison is made in terms of knock intensity and knock probability. Tests are performed in a single-cylinder, variable-compression ratio, Cooperative Fuel Research engine equipped with port fuel injection system, facilitating the comparison against future results obtained by similar experimental facilities. Results obtained allow to reach meaningful conclusions about the capacity of each blend to mitigate knock.
(Un)intended consequences of the 2016 educational reform on early childhood education and care in Poland. The story of a few applications that led to significant disorder
Authors: Ciepielewska-Kowalik Anna
Published: May 2020

Merton’s law on unintended consequences (1936) warns against the undesirable and unanticipated outcomes of every action and policy. More recent research (Zhao, 2017) in the field of education, in relation to Merton, claims that these consequences are usually treated as inconvenient side effect of a policy, but are, in fact, planned by policy-makers or other stakeholders to benefit them. It is therefore more appropriate to call them ‘(un)intended consequences’, which are not written into the policy but are a result of how the policy translates into practice. This paper, in relation to the above approaches, aims at revealing (un)intended consequences and hidden agendas of the educational reform conducted by the Polish government in 2016, with a special focus on their impact on ECEC. (Un)intended consequences are investigated here in four dimensions, including ECEC: organisational changes, curriculum, management and educators.

 The paper is based on the review of literature and on the author’s qualitative and quantitative research among parents, teachers and representatives of local authorities, carried out in the 2018/2019 school year.
Validity of balance and mobility screening tests for assessing fall risk in COPD
Authors: McLay Rachel , Kirkwood Renata Noce , Kuspinar Ayse , Richardson Julie , Wald Joshua , Raghavan Natya , Ellerton Cindy , Pugsley Stewart , Beauchamp Marla K
Published: May 2020

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have balance impairments and an increased risk of falls. The psychometric properties of short balance tests to inform fall risk assessment in COPD are unknown. Our objective was to determine the validity (concurrent, convergent, and known-groups) of short balance and mobility tests for fall risk screening. Participants with COPD aged ≥ 60 years attended a single assessment. Correlation coefficients described the relationships between the Brief Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Brief BESTest), Single-Leg Stance (SLS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Timed Up and Go Dual-Task (TUG-DT) tests, with the comprehensive Berg Balance Scale (BBS), chair-stand test, and measures of exercise tolerance, functional limitation, disability, and prognosis. Independent t-tests or Mann–Whitney U tests were used to examine differences between groups with respect to fall risk. Receiver operating characteristic curves examined the ability of the screening tests to identify individuals with previous falls. A total of 86 patients with COPD completed the study (72.9 ± 6.8 years; forced expiratory volume in 1 second: 47.3 ± 20.3% predicted). The Brief BESTest identified individuals who reported a previous fall (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.715, p = 0.001), and the SLS showed borderline acceptable accuracy in identifying individuals with a fall history (AUC = 0.684, p = 0.004). The strongest correlations were found for the Brief BESTest and SLS with the BBS ( r = 0.80 and r = 0.72, respectively) and between the TUG and TUG-DT with the chair-stands test ( r = 0.73 and r = 0.70, respectively). The Brief BESTest and SLS show the most promise as balance screening tools for fall risk assessment in older adults with COPD. These tests should be further evaluated prospectively.
Side-by-Side Stenting Repair of a Traumatic Pseudoaneurysm at a Venous Confluence
Authors: Dutmers Jennifer , Soule Erik , Bertran Mario Agrait , Andreou Sonia , Matteo Jerry
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

The incidence and prevalence of iatrogenic vascular trauma in the United States is staggering. This has led to the advent and implementation of more efficient and effective vascular repair methods. Although open surgical repair may still be considered gold standard, new endovascular solutions have emerged as other viable options. When using an endovascular approach, proper stent sizing is vital to a successful repair.

Methods:

We present a case of a traumatic injury and pseudoaneurysm formation at the confluence of the right internal jugular and right subclavian veins during a central line placement. This iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm was treated with endovascular placement of side-by-side stents. A mathematical formula, which we have designated “Matteo’s law,” was utilized to select properly sized stent grafts to reconstruct the confluence and prevent infolding and endoleaks.

Results:

After deployment of kissing stents at the confluence of the right internal jugular and right subclavian veins, a venogram was performed, which demonstrated successful exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm and no endoleaks. Clinical follow-up confirms continued wide open flow through the reconstructed venous confluence at 8 months post-procedure.

Conclusion:

In reconstruction of a venous confluence, selection of properly sized stent grafts is paramount to preventing infolding and endoleaks. Matteo’s law states that the circumference of the native receiving vessel must equal the sum of the circumferences of both kissing stent grafts, subtracting the redundant material where the 2 stents interface.
Is Recovery of Somatosensory Impairment Conditional for Upper-Limb Motor Recovery Early After Stroke?
Authors: Zandvliet Sarah B. , Kwakkel Gert , Nijland Rinske H. M. , van Wegen Erwin E. H. , Meskers Carel G. M.
Published: May 2020

Background. Spontaneous recovery early after stroke is most evident during a time-sensitive window of heightened neuroplasticity, known as spontaneous neurobiological recovery. It is unknown whether poststroke upper-limb motor and somatosensory impairment both reflect spontaneous neurobiological recovery or if somatosensory impairment and/or recovery influences motor recovery. Methods. Motor (Fugl-Meyer upper-extremity [FM-UE]) and somatosensory impairments (Erasmus modification of the Nottingham Sensory Assessment [EmNSA-UE]) were measured in 215 patients within 3 weeks and at 5, 12, and 26 weeks after a first-ever ischemic stroke. The longitudinal association between FM-UE and EmNSA-UE was examined in patients with motor and somatosensory impairments (FM-UE ≤ 60 and EmNSA-UE ≤ 37) at baseline. Results. A total of 94 patients were included in the longitudinal analysis. EmNSA-UE increased significantly up to 12 weeks poststroke. The longitudinal association between motor and somatosensory impairment disappeared when correcting for progress of time and was not significantly different for patients with severe baseline somatosensory impairment. Patients with a FM-UE score ≥18 at 26 weeks (n = 55) showed a significant positive association between motor and somatosensory impairments, irrespective of progress of time. Conclusions. Progress of time, as a reflection of spontaneous neurobiological recovery, is an important factor that drives recovery of upper-limb motor as well as somatosensory impairments in the first 12 weeks poststroke. Severe somatosensory impairment at baseline does not directly compromise motor recovery. The study rather suggests that spontaneous recovery of somatosensory impairment is a prerequisite for full motor recovery of the upper paretic limb.
Intersphincteric Resection Versus Abdominoperineal Resection for Low Rectal Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Peng Baifu , Lu Jiabao , Wu Zixin , Li Guanwei , Wei Fang , Cao Jie , Li Wanglin
Published: May 2020

Background. Abdominoperineal resection (APR) has been the standard surgery for ultra-low rectal cancer for a century. In recent years, intersphincteric resection (ISR) has been increasingly used to avoid the permanent colostomy. Up to now, there is no relevant meta-analysis comparing the clinical efficacy of ISR and APR. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the outcomes of these 2 procedures. Methods. A comprehensive search of online databases was performed on PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library to obtain comparative studies of ISR and APR. Then the data from studies that met the inclusion criteria were extracted and analyzed. Results. A total of 12 studies covering 2438 patients were included. No significant differences were found between ISR and APR in gender, body mass index, distance from tumor to anal edge, operative time, and blood loss. In addition, hospital stay (weighted mean differences = −2.98 days; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −3.54 to −2.43; P < .00001) and postoperative morbidity (odds ratio [OR] = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.59 to 0.99; P = .04) were significantly lower in ISR group compared with APR group. However, patients who underwent ISR showed lower pathological T-stage (T3T4%, OR = 0.49; 95% CI = 0.28 to 0.86; P = .01) and lymph node metastasis rate (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.59 to 1.01; P = .06) compared with those who underwent APR. Moreover, oncological outcomes were similar between the 2 groups. Conclusion. ISR may provide a safe alternative to APR, with shorter hospital stays, lower postoperative morbidity, and similar oncological outcomes. Well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm and update the findings of this analysis.
PreImplantation Factor immunohistochemical expression correlates with prostate cancer aggressiveness
Authors: Raspollini Maria Rosaria , Montagnani Ilaria , Cirri Paolo , Baroni Gianna , Cimadamore Alessia , Scarpelli Marina , Cheng Liang , Lopez-Beltran Antonio , Montironi Rodolfo , Barnea Eytan R.
Published: May 2020

Background:

The PreImplantation Factor (PIF)—a peptide secreted by viable embryos—exerts autotrophic protective effects, promotes endometrial receptivity and controls trophoblast invasion. Synthetic PIF (sPIF) has both immune-protective and regenerative properties, and reduces oxidative stress and protein misfolding. PIF is detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in hyperplastic endometriotic lesions and advanced uterine cancer. sPIF reduces graft-versus-host disease while maintaining a graft-versus-leukemia effect.

Methods:

PIF detection in prostate cancer was assessed in 50 human prostate samples following radical prostatectomy using tumor-microarray-based IHC correlating PIF immune staining with Gleason score (GS) and cancer aggressiveness.

Results:

PIF was detected in moderate-to-high risk prostate cancer (GS 4+3 and beyond, prognostic groups 3 to 5). In prostate cancer (GS (WHO Grade Group (GG)5), PIF was detected in 50% of cases; in prostate cancer (GS 4+4 GG4), PIF was observed in 62.5% of cases; in prostate cancer (GS 4+3 GG3), PIF immunostaining was observed in 57.1% of cases. In prostate cancer, (GS 3+4 GG2) and (GS 3+3 GG1) cases where PIF staining was negative to weak, membranous staining was observed in 20% of cases (staining pattern considered negative). High-grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia PIF positive stain in 28.57% of cases (6 of 21) was observed. In contrast, PIF was not detected in normal prostate glands. Importantly, sPIF added to the PC3 cell line alone or combined with prostate cancer fibroblast feeder-cells did not affect proliferation. Only when peripheral blood mononuclear cells were added to the culture, a minor increase in cell proliferation was noted, reflecting local proliferation control.

Conclusions:

Collectively, PIF assessment could be a valuable, simple-to-use immunohistochemical biomarker to evaluate aggressiveness/prognosis in specimens from prostate cancer patients.
The versatile roles and clinical implications of exosomal mRNAs and microRNAs in cancer
Authors: Tang Shuli , Yu Siming , Cheng Jianan , Zhang Yanqiao , Huang Xiaoyi
Published: May 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which include exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, are nanosized structures that are secreted by various cells and act as important mediators in intercellular communication. Recent studies have shown that exosomes carrying bioactive molecules are generated from multivesicular bodies and are present in various body fluids. mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs) are encapsulated in exosomes and have been found to be involved in multiple pathophysiological processes. Here, we provide a review of tumor-associated exosomal mRNAs and miRNAs and their roles in metastasis and drug resistance. In particular, we emphasize their clinical application potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of cancer and in cancer therapy.
ROBIN: An open-source middleware for plug‘n’produce of Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors: Arrais Rafael , Ribeiro Paulo , Domingos Henrique , Veiga Germano
Published: May 2020

Motivated by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, there is an ever-increasing need to integrated Cyber-Physical Systems in industrial production environments. To address the demand for flexible robotics in contemporary industrial environments and the necessity to integrate robots and automation equipment in an efficient manner, an effective, bidirectional, reliable and structured data interchange mechanism is required. As an answer to these requirements, this article presents ROBIN, an open-source middleware for achieving interoperability between the Robot Operating System and CODESYS, a softPLC that can run on embedded devices and that supports a variety of fieldbuses and industrial network protocols. The referred middleware was successfully applied and tested in various industrial applications such as battery management systems, motion, robotic manipulator and safety hardware control, and horizontal integration between a mobile manipulator and a conveyor system.
Research on path planning based on new fusion algorithm for autonomous vehicle
Authors: Yuan ChaoChun , Wei Yue , Shen Jie , Chen Long , He Youguo , Weng Shuofeng , Wang Tong
Published: May 2020

Ant colony algorithm or artificial potential field is commonly used for path planning of autonomous vehicle. However, vehicle dynamics and road adhesion coefficient are not taken into consideration. In addition, ant colony algorithm has blindness/randomness due to low pheromone concentration at initial stage of obstacle avoidance path searching progress. In this article, a new fusion algorithm combining ant colony algorithm and improved potential field is introduced making autonomous vehicle avoid obstacle and drive more safely. Controller of path planning is modeled and analyzed based on simulation of CarSim and Simulink. Simulation results show that fusion algorithm reduces blindness at initial stage of obstacle avoidance path searching progress and verifies validity and efficiency of path planning. Moreover, all parameters of vehicle are changed within a reasonable range to meet requirements of steering stability and driving safely during path planning progress.
Mechanical design and force control algorithm for a robot leg with hydraulic series-elastic actuators
Authors: Shi Yapeng , Wang Pengfei , Zha Fusheng , Sun Lining , Li Mantian , Jia Wangqiang , Li Zhibin
Published: May 2020

This article presents a mechanical design structure for hydraulic actuators using the principle of series-elastic actuator, considering the restriction of mechanical structure, weight and size, as well as the requirement of high joint torques due to the large payload. An articulated leg was designed to incorporate with two of these elastic elements symmetrically for each joint. Further, for the hydraulic system with a position servo loop, a force control algorithm was particularly proposed and developed for joint torque tracking and Cartesian impedance control. Finally, a number of experiments were carried out on the leg platform, and the experimental results validated the effectiveness of the force control algorithm and the performance of the overall system.
Case study: Performance analysis and development of robotized screwing application with integrated vision sensing system for automotive industry
Authors: Sága Milan , Bulej Vladimír , Čuboňova Nadežda , Kuric Ivan , Virgala Ivan , Eberth Manfred
Published: May 2020

Industrial cameras starting to play a significant role in current industrial environment and they represent a strong tool for robotics mainly in cases when they are combined with high-speed robots. However, there are still some difficulties in vision system integration. The capability of such system (e.g. assembly or technological system) depends on several factors, for instance, the camera position, lightning conditions, pattern recognition algorithms, precise setup, as well as well-trained programmer and engineer. The skills of the engineering staff and the precise analysis of conditions and process requirements seem to be crucial for successful solution, what was proved also in our experimental test. The main aim of the article is development and complex performance analysis of robotized screwing application with integrated vision system, concretely the case study of automated assembly system in automotive industry—bolting tightening robotized station as a part of car seat assembly process. The main key elements of the designed workplace are industrial robot FANUC M-20 iA/20M with integrated iRVision system containing the industrial camera Sony XC-56. The real influence of inaccuracies during the design process, gradual “step-by-step” refinement, and final influence of all changings on the final quality and efficiency of designed system was demonstrated. At the end, we reached the point where the total number of screwing operations with NOK results (not OK / negative results) is about six single negative results per day, which represents less than 0.1% of all recognitions (overall reliability is higher than 99.9%).
Getting a foot in the door: A critical anti-race analysis of underemployed second generation Caribbean Black Male Youth
Authors: Briggs Anthony Q
Published: May 2020

This study utilizes a Critical Anti-Race Qualitative Phenomenological Methodology to challenge the dominant deficit perspective which reinforces the notion that the cultural deprivation of Blacks causes their marginalization. From this viewpoint, Blacks should take individual responsibility for changing their life conditions. However, this article offers narratives of Black men that reveal how structural factors grounded in the notion of racial battle fatigue limit their autonomy, education, and access to employment opportunities. The study focuses on underemployed, second-generation Caribbean Black Male Youth between 18 years and 30 years of age who have made the post-high school transition into the labor market but remain underemployed. This study seeks to understand the central theme emerging in the counternarratives: Caribbean Black Male Youth perceive and experience a lack of employment opportunities. This article’s aim is to show how Caribbean Black Male Youth struggle to address their limited employment opportunities by exploring the impact of the intersecting politics of race, gender, and class on the City of Toronto labor force.
Resorcin[4]arene Schiff base derivatives: Synthesis, characterization, and extraction studies
Authors: Upadhyay Juhi B , Parekh Hitesh M
Published: May 2020

Novel 2,6-dihydroxyacetophenone[4]arene derivatives with an electron-withdrawing group at the ortho-position are developed. The 2,6-dihydroxyacetophenone[4]arene derivatives are condensed with benzylamine in chloroform to give the Schiff base derivatives of resorcin[4]arene. The acetyl group of the 2,6-dihydroxyacetophenone[4]arenes is condensed with primary amine groups to form imines. The multifunctional target molecules are purified and isolated in good yields. The Schiff base derivatives are characterized by elemental analysis, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. All the Schiff base compounds are successfully used for the extraction of toxic metals including Ni2+, Mn2+, Hg2+, Co2+, and Na+ using a liquid–liquid solvent extraction process. Among these tested metals, the percentage extraction of Hg2+ is the highest. As sodium dichromate has greater oxidative stability to transfer the HCr2O7− anion from an aqueous a protonated ligand solution, an anionic extraction study of dichromate is tested at various pH values.
Calculations of hydrogenation enthalpies of hydrocarbons by M06-2X/CBS extrapolated level in the gas phase
Authors: Khairbek AA , Badawi M Abd Al-Hakim
Published: May 2020

The standard enthalpies of hydrogenation of 29 unsaturated hydrocarbon compounds were calculated in the gas phase by M06-2X theory with the 6-31g(d) and cc-pVXZ, where X = DZ, TZ, QZ, as well as by complete basis set extrapolated level. Geometries of compounds were optimized at the M06-2X/6-31g(d) level. These M06-2X geometries were used in the M06-2X, and extrapolation calculations with cc-pVXZ basis sets. Comparison of calculation and experimental results shows that the mean absolute deviations between the calculated and experimental enthalpies of hydrogenation range from 25.1 to 5.1 kJ mol−1 at M06-2X calculations, and when using cc-pV(DT)Z extrapolated level, the mean absolute deviations have decreased to 2.7. The results of some calculations showed that the deviations from experimental values are located inside the “chemical accuracy” (±1 kcal mol−1≈±4.2 kJ mol−1). Very good linear correlations between experimental and calculated enthalpies of hydrogenation have been obtained at M06-2X/cc-pVTZ and cc-pV(DT)Z extrapolated levels (standard deviation = 3.2 and 3.4 kJ mol−1, respectively).
Social Theory, Photography and the Visual Aesthetic of Cultural Modernity
Authors: Ray Larry
Published: May 2020

Social theory and photographic aesthetics both engage with issues of representation, realism and validity, having crossed paths in theoretical and methodological controversies. This discussion begins with reflections on the realism debate in photography, arguing that beyond the polar positions of realism and constructivism the photographic image is essentially ambivalent, reflecting the ways in which it is situated within cultural modernity. The discussion draws critically on Simmel’s sociology of the visual to elucidate these issues and compares his concept of social forms and their development with the emergence of the photograph. Several dimensions of ambivalence are elaborated with reference to the politics and aesthetics socially engaged photography in the first half of the 20th century. It presents a case for the autonomy of the photographic as a social form that nonetheless has the potential to point beyond reality to immanent possibilities. The discussion exemplifies the processes of aesthetic formation with reference to the ‘New Vision’ artwork of László Moholy-Nagy and the social realism of Edith Tudor Hart.
Demythologizing war journalism: Motivation and role perception of Dutch war journalists
Authors: van der Hoeven Regina (Pien) , Kester Bernadette
Published: May 2020

Although, in recent years, considerable research has been done on the hazardous experiences of Anglo-Saxon war journalists, Dutch war journalists have never been the focus of academic attention. The authors thought the experiences of the Dutch might put war journalism in a new light and so they conducted a series of in-depth interviews with 12 Dutch war journalists. In this article, they address two main research questions: what are war journalists’ motives for practising this dangerous occupation and how do they perceive their professional role? The authors compared their findings to previous research on Anglo-Saxon war journalists and on Dutch journalism students and journalists. The most striking conclusion is that, compared to their Anglo-Saxon colleagues, Dutch war journalists are reluctant to present their motivation and work in moral dimensions too eagerly. Instead, all the interviewees frankly acknowledge that they are excited by the experience of war or at least seeking adventure. They equally admit to having chosen the profession partly because of career opportunities. However, this rational attitude of Dutch war journalists does not deter them from moral objectives.
Using e-cigarettes for smoking cessation: evaluation of a pilot project in the North West of England
Authors: Coffey M , Cooper-Ryan AM , Houston L , Thompson K , Cook PA
Published: May 2020

Aims:

E-cigarettes have been advocated as an effective smoking cessation intervention, with evidence indicating that they are substantially less harmful than conventional cigarettes. As a result, a pilot to encourage people to swap from conventional cigarettes to e-cigarettes was conducted in 2018 in a socially deprived area in the North West of England. This evaluation highlights the key findings from the pilot.

Methods:

An analysis of secondary data at 4 weeks ( n = 1022) was undertaken to predict those who used solely used e-cigarettes (i.e. had quit tobacco, as confirmed by a carbon monoxide test, CO < 10 ppm) from baseline characteristics, using chi-square tests and logistic regression. Baseline data were demographics, smoking levels and service provider type.

Results:

Of the 1022 participants who engaged with the pilot 614 were still engaged at 4 weeks, of whom 62% had quit; quitting was more likely in younger participants (aged 18–24) and less likely in those who were sick and disabled. Of those who still smoked tobacco at week 4 ( n = 226), smoking had reduced from a baseline of 19.1 cigarettes/day to 8.7. Overall, 37% (381) of those initially enrolled were confirmed to be using an e-cigarette on its own at follow-up. Successful quit was associated with occupation (unemployed, 33% vs intermediate, 47%, p = .023) and residing in the less deprived quintiles of deprivation (50% vs 34% in the most deprived quintile, p = .016).

Conclusions:

Making the conservative assumption that all those not in contact at 4 weeks were still smoking tobacco, for every five people entering the scheme, three people stayed on the programme and reduced their cigarette smoking and one person cut out tobacco altogether. E-cigarettes appear to be an effective nicotine replacement therapy; however, further research is required to determine whether e-cigarette users are more likely to reduce their overall nicotine consumption in the longer term.
Artapanus as a Source for the Building of the Temple of Onias in Egypt
Authors: Piotrkowski Meron M
Published: May 2020

In scholarly literature, one frequently encounters the claim that Artapanus supplies the only reference to the building of the Temple of Onias in the entire extant corpus of Jewish-Hellenistic literature. While this assumption has found acceptance, this article wishes to investigate that claim. While Artapanus indeed incorporated a reference to the building of a temple by Jews in Heliopolis—the same place, where Josephus located the Temple of Onias—it seems, however, that what Artapanus had in mind was not the Jewish Temple of Onias, but the famed Egyptian Temple of Atum-Ra. This insight is supported by passages of ancient Hellenistic writers such as Herodotus and Diodorus Siculus, who, as Artapanus, contain similar references, to which the latter appears to allude. Artapanus’ note may thus be explained by the notion that the piece of information about Jews being responsible for the building of a famous Egyptian temple fulfills an apologetic purpose and served to aggrandize the Jewish presence in the Egyptian Diaspora.
Network Pharmacology Research and Preliminary Verification of Gegen Qinlian Decoction for the Treatment of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Hao Pengfei , Xiong Yiyi , Wu Hezhen , Yang Yanfang
Published: May 2020

Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) is a traditional Chinese medicine that is used to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the clinic. The pharmacodynamics and cellular pathways governing the effects of GQD on NAFLD remain undefined. In this study, we investigated GQD pharmacology through assessment of its chemical constituents and evaluated and screened its components using drug likeness, pharmacokinetic characteristics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity), and appropriate compensation mechanisms. We performed predictions of the active GQD ingredients based on reverse pharmacophore matching and compared multiple NAFLD-related genes to determine potential GQD targets. Molecular docking experiments of the active components were performed to reveal cellular targets. Annotation analysis of both target genes and related pathways were assessed through the DAVID database. Cytoscape software was used to construct a “component-target-path” network for the treatment of NAFLD by GQD. Through data analysis, 9 active GQD substances and 10 targets related to NAFLD encompassing 4 cellular pathways were identified. Data were verified through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis. These findings provide new references for the network pharmacology of Chinese medicinal compounds and NAFLD treatment.
Three-Dimensional Printed Cage in Patients With Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis Using a Retrograde Intramedullary Nail: Early Outcomes
Authors: Bejarano-Pineda Lorena , Sharma Akhil , Adams Samuel B. , Parekh Selene G.
Published: May 2020

Introduction. Segmental bone loss in the hindfoot hinders the chance of successful outcomes. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is a reliable option; nevertheless, the risk of nonunion is high. Three-dimensional (3D) printed titanium implants offer a strong scaffold that can be customized and has demonstrated encouraging healing rates. In this study, we described the clinical outcomes and the radiologic union rate of a case series of patients with hindfoot arthrodesis, using a retrograde intramedullary nail associated to a 3D printed titanium cage. Methods. Seven patients undergoing hindfoot arthrodesis, using a retrograde intramedullary nail associated to a custom 3D printed titanium cage, were included. Demographic data were collected. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score and the Visual Analogue Scale for pain. Hindfoot alignment and radiographic union were evaluated using weight-bearing radiographs and computed tomography scan, respectively. Results. A total of 6 (85%) patients had more than 50% bony bridging. Only 1 patient underwent below knee amputation due to recurrence of chronic osteomyelitis. Two additional patients had minor complications. Conclusion. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using customized titanium cages for patients with large bone defects has shown a high rate of union in those at risk of nonunion. However, further research with larger series is needed.

Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Case series
First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Using Memory Staples: Clinical and Functional Results
Authors: Challagundla Sudhakar Rao , Thomas Roshin , Ferdinand Rupert , Crane Evan
Published: May 2020

Background. We present clinical and functional results of first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis using Memory staples. Methods. This retrospective observational study reviewed MTPJ arthrodesis with Memory staples from 2012 to 2016. Results. The mean age of 50 patients (55 feet) was 63 years (range 41-77 years). Forty-one feet were in women. Indication was hallux rigidus (n = 49) and hallux valgus (n = 6). The overall union rate was 98.2% (n = 54 of 55), including delayed healing in 3 (5.5%). The average time to union was 12 weeks. At a mean follow-up of 38 months (range 12-73 months), the mean Foot and Ankle Ability Measure score (47 out of 55, 86% response rate) was 87% (interquartile range 78%-100%). Complications included partial laceration of extensor hallucis longus (n = 1), wound infection (n = 4), wound-related (n = 2), lesser metatarsalgia (n = 3), cock up deformity (n = 1), and pain (n = 3). Conclusions. The high union rate, good patient satisfaction scores, and low rate of complications support our use of Memory staples.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Digital Threats to Democracy: Comparative Lessons and Possible Remedies
Authors: Miller Michael L. , Vaccari Cristian
Published: May 2020

We introduce a special issue that collects eight articles, comprising research from twenty-three countries and four continents on the sources, impact on citizens, and possible remedies to various digital threats to democracy, ranging from disinformation to hate speech to state interference with online freedoms. We set these contributions against the backdrop of a profound change in how scholars think about the implications of digital media for democracy. From the utopianism that prevailed from the 1990s until the early 2010s, the post-2016 reckoning has led to a change in the kinds of questions scholars ask, with the focus gradually shifting to investigations of the threats, rather than the benefits, of the Internet. The eight contributions presented in this special issue employ a variety of disciplinary approaches and methods, often comparing different countries, to address some of the most pressing questions on how the Internet can hinder the feasibility and well-functioning of democracy around the world. We conclude by setting out three challenges for future research on digital media and politics: a growing but still partial understanding of the extent and impact of the main digital threats to democracy; the risk that the dominant approaches become overly pessimistic, or founded on weak normative grounds; and the risk that research overemphasizes direct and short-term implications of digital threats on individuals and specific groups at the expense of indirect and medium-term effects on collective norms and expectations of behavior.
Preoperative Hip Extension Strength Is an Independent Predictor of Achieving Clinically Significant Outcomes After Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Beck Edward C. , Nwachukwu Benedict U. , Krivicich Laura M. , Malloy Philip , Suppauksorn Sunikom , Jan Kyleen , Nho Shane J.
Published: May 2020

Background:

The effect of preoperative hip strength on outcomes after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine whether preoperative isometric hip strength is associated with outcome scores at 6 months as well as achieving the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS.

Hypothesis:

Increased preoperative isometric strength will be correlated with short-term postoperative outcomes and will be predictive of achieving higher functional status.

Study Design:

Case series.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

Data from 92 consecutive patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy for treatment of FAIS from March through August 2018 were analyzed. All patients included in the analysis had preoperative measures of isometric hip strength on both affected and unaffected limbs, as well as preoperative and 6-month patient-reported outcome (PRO) scores. Analysis was performed to determine correlations between normalized isometric hip strength measurements and PROs and whether strength measurements were predictive of achieving MCID or PASS.

Results:

A total of 74 (80.4%) patients had 6-month PROs and were included in the final analysis. Hip extension strength on both sides was correlated with all postoperative PROs (all P > 0.05). Abduction strength on both sides was correlated with postoperative Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living subscale score, achieving MCID on at least 1 score threshold, and reaching the international Hip Outcome Tool-12 threshold score for achieving PASS (all P < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that extension strength on the affected side was the only strength measurement predictor of achieving PASS (1.043; P = 0.049).

Conclusion:

Preoperative isometric hip extension and abduction strength are correlated with 6-month postoperative PRO scores. Furthermore, hip extension strength is a predictor of achieving clinically meaningful outcomes.

Clinical Relevance:

This study highlights the possible importance of preoperative optimization of hip function to maximize outcomes in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS.
Uninjured Youth Athlete Performance on Single-Leg Hop Testing: How Many Can Achieve Recommended Return-to-Sport Criterion?
Authors: Greenberg Elliot M. , Dyke Julie , Leung Anne , Karl Michael , Lawrence J. Todd , Ganley Theodore
Published: May 2020

Background:

Current anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) guidelines utilize single-leg hop tests (SLHTs) to assist in return-to-sport decision making. A limb symmetry index (LSI) of ≥90% is often required; however, after ACLR, most youth athletes cannot achieve this standard. Reporting the performance of age-matched normative controls will allow clinicians to compare post-ACLR performance with noninjured peers, improving the utility of SLHTs. The purpose of this study was to report hop test LSI within healthy youth athletes and determine whether athlete performance surpasses post-ACLR requirements.

Hypothesis:

The LSI for the majority of healthy youth athletes will be ≥90%.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Each participant performed a single hop (SH), triple hop (TrH), crossover hop (CrH), and timed hop (TiH). A 3-trial mean was utilized to calculate an LSI (nondominant/dominant leg [self-reported kicking leg]) for each hop. The frequency of pass/fail at ≥90% LSI was calculated. Pearson correlation coefficients analyzed the relationship between the different hops, and a 2-way analysis of variance determined the effects of age and sex on LSI.

Results:

A total of 340 participants (54% male; mean age, 10.9 ± 1.5 years; range, 8-14 years) were included. The mean LSI was >95% for each SLHT (SH, 97.9% [SD, 0.7]; TrH, 96.6% [SD, 0.6]; CrH, 96.8% [SD, 0.8]; TiH, 96.5% [SD, 0.6]). When analyzed as a test battery, only 45% of participants achieved this standard. Significantly weak to moderate correlations existed among hop tests ( P < 0.01; r = 0.342-0.520). Age and sex had no effect on LSI ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

While the mean LSI in our sample was >95% for each individual hop test, participant performance across all SLHT components varied, such that less than half of healthy athletes could achieve ≥90% LSI across all hops.

Clinical Relevance:

Current guidelines require ≥90% LSI on SLHTs. The majority of healthy youth athletes could not achieve this standard, which questions the validity of this LSI threshold in youth athletes after ACLR.
Cardiovascular disease and COVID-19: les liaisons dangereuses
Authors: Barison Andrea , Aimo Alberto , Castiglione Vincenzo , Arzilli Chiara , Lupón Josep , Codina Pau , Santiago-Vacas Evelyn , Cediel Germán , Emdin Michele , Bayes-Genis Antoni
Published: May 2020

Patients with cardiovascular risk factors or established cardiovascular disease have an increased risk of developing coronavirus disease 19 and have a worse outcome when infected, but translating this notion into effective action is challenging. At present it is unclear whether cardiovascular therapies may reduce the likelihood of infection, or improve the survival of infected patients. Given the crucial importance of this issue for clinical cardiologists and all specialists dealing with coronavirus disease 19, we tried to recapitulate the current evidence and provide some practical recommendations.
The value derived from a practice: An application to the case of energy savings
Authors: Innocent Morgane , François-Lecompte Agnès
Published: May 2020

This research proposes a framework for value analysis derived from a practice. We link this concept with the consumer value in marketing. The approach adopted for the value derived from a practice is bivalent, including the various reasons for valuing and devaluing the activity. We then propose a model based on the assumption that the value derived from a practice changes with the intensity of the practice. The empirical study focuses on the practice of eco-friendly gestures that aim to save electricity. The results show that the more intensified the practice, the stronger the value creation while the loss of value is reduced. In addition, a multi-group analysis allows the diversification of the value to be observed when the intensity of the practice increases. The results reveal the importance of eudemonic value, which offers a new avenue for understanding the mechanisms of appropriation of practices with societal stakes.