bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Self-Change in Close Relationships: Evidence From Hong Kong Chinese and European Americans
Authors: Joo Minjoo , Lam Ben C. P. , Cross Susan E. , Chen Sylvia Xiaohua , Lau Victor C. Y. , Ng Hilary K. Y. , Günsoy Ceren
Published: July 2021

Three studies examined cultural perceptions of self-change in romantic relationships. In Study 1 ( N = 191), Chinese participants perceived hypothetical couples who changed for the sake of the relationship to have better relationship quality than couples who did not, compared to European American participants. In Study 2 ( N = 396), Chinese individuals in a dating relationship were more likely to perceive that they had changed in the relationship, and self-change was a stronger predictor of relationship quality for them than for American dating individuals. In Study 3 ( N = 115 dyads), Chinese married couples perceived greater self-change, and their perceived self-change was due in part to higher endorsement of dutiful adjustment beliefs than American couples. Self-change was a stronger predictor of relationship quality for Chinese married couples than American couples. Our studies provide support for cultural differences in the role of self-change in romantic relationships, which have implications for partner regulation and relationship counseling across cultures.
Parenting Desire Among Childless Lesbian and Gay Individuals in China: The Influence of Traditional Family Values, Minority Stress, and Parenting Motivation
Authors: Wang Jian , Zheng Lijun
Published: July 2021

The current study aimed to explore the roles of traditional family values (specifically, filial piety and traditional gender stereotypes), minority stress, and parenting motivation in parenting desire among Chinese lesbian women and gay men. 1042 childless lesbian women and gay men between the ages of 18 and 46 were recruited to respond to an online survey, which covered measures assessing parenting desire, traditional family values, minority stress, and parenting motivation. The results indicated that traditional family values, minority stress, and parenting motivation each showed positive correlations with parenting desire. Additionally, minority stress alone mediated the relationship between filial piety/traditional gender stereotypes and parenting desire. However, minority stress was not significantly associated with parenting desire when controlling for parenting motivation. Parenting motivation mediated the associations between filial piety/traditional gender stereotypes, and parenting desire controlling for minority stress. The findings indicated that traditional family values, minority stress, and parenting motivation can be considered predictors of the desire to become a parent among Chinese lesbian women and gay men.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Intimate Partner Violence, and Communication Quality in a College-Aged Sample
Authors: Baller Stephanie L. , Lewis Kelby
Published: July 2021

Previous adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) research focused on the future effects of intimate partner violence (IPV) among adult men, as well as victimization patterns. Continuing evidence is needed informing how ACEs, communication, and IPV may emerge within the intimate partnerships of 18–24 year olds. The present study addresses a literature gap by investigating ACEs in relation to relationship communication quality and IPV, considering not only victimization but also perpetration. An online survey was distributed through social media outlets targeting college-aged adults ( n = 228). Men were more likely to perpetrate and be victimized by IPV than women in the sample. However, both sexes had moderate associations between ACES and victimization as well as perpetration of physical, emotional, sexual, and cyber abuse. Poor communication quality was associated with ACEs and most forms of abuse experienced in the last year. Continued investigation of this topic is warranted to understand mechanisms for effective treatment and skill development.
Union Formation Expectations Among Older Adults Who Live Apart Together in the USA
Authors: Wu Huijing , Brown Susan L.
Published: July 2021

There is an ongoing debate over whether living apart together (LAT) relationships are simply long-term relationships or alternatives to cohabitation or marriage. This study examined cohabitation and marriage expectations among older adults who LAT in the United States to address the debate. The analyses also compared the marriage expectations of older adults who LAT and cohabitors. Using data from the 2011 Wisconsin Longitudinal Study (WLS), we examined the union expectations of 250 individuals who LAT and 234 cohabitors. After providing a demographic portrait of older adults who LAT, we used ordered logistic regression models to predict their cohabitation and marriage expectations. Additional models predicted marriage expectations for older adults who LAT versus cohabitors. Older adults who LAT were unlikely to expect to formalize their unions. Adults who LAT were less likely to expect marriage than cohabitors. LAT relationships appear to be long-term partnerships in the United States.
Protestant Revivals (Awakenings) and Transformational Impact: A Comparative Evaluation Framework Applied on the Revival among the Zulus (South Africa)
Authors: Fleischmann Elfrieda , Ferreira Ignatius W , Muller Francois
Published: July 2021

This article addresses paucity in literature on the conceptualising of the true nature of a Protestant revival. Through a literary review and document study, the article aims to compile a Protestant revival evaluation criterion (PREC) to assess protestant revivals. This was done by integrating the distinctives (characteristics) of Evangelical revivals throughout history as described by prominent scholars such as Armstrong, Cairns, Edwards, Lloyd-Jones and Sprague in general. In addition, various past and present examples and exponents of true and juxtaposing anti-revivals were investigated and beacons set for sustainable revival. From the PREC, three levels were established by which to assess revivals: individuals (micro), the church (meso) and surrounding communities (macro). For the case study, information was gleaned from multiple sources, including interviews, documents, sermons, newsletters, observations and research reports. Applying the PREC in a case study, demonstrates how it operates as a valuable tool; in this case, the revival among the Zulus in KwaSizabantu, South Africa.
Growing the Talent Pool: How Sponsorship of Professional Sales Programs Enhances Employer Branding
Authors: Groza Mark D. , Zmich Louis J. , Groza Mya P.
Published: July 2021

Increasingly, professional sales programs receive financial support from company sponsors in exchange for varying types of branding and recruiting opportunities. This study builds on the literature regarding employer branding and talent acquisition by examining the effect sales program sponsorship has on students. Grounded in organizational reputation theories, brand equity, and the literature on corporate sponsorship, it is proposed that sponsoring a sales program leads to positive student–firm related perceptions. Additionally, it is predicted that classroom engagement in the form of coteaching enhances these positive effects. Two natural field experiments, one involving two semesters of professional sales students ( n = 90), the other involving four semesters of professional sales students ( n = 174), are conducted to test the conceptual model. Results confirm the study’s predictions that sponsoring firms are perceived more favorably by students, and classroom engagement enhances these positive perceptions. Finally, results suggest that firms with lower initial familiarity among students have the most to gain in terms of enhancing student perceptions through coteaching.
Between stability and change: Tensions in the Norwegian electric mobility transition
Authors: Anfinsen Martin
Published: July 2021

Norway, where a majority of new cars sold are currently electric, has emerged as a rich location for studying transitions towards electric mobility. Such transitions have often been conceptualized through a Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), which generally designates the technology as a disruptive niche with potential to upend the obdurate and problematic automobilty regime. Drawing upon Actor-Network Theory (ANT), this article re-examines this designation and provides nuance to theories of sustainable transition. This change in perspective enable us to re-centre user practices and investigate how electric vehicle drivers operate within complex human/non-human networks. Rather than viewing stability and change as the result of interactions between pre-determined levels, ANT allows us to explore how stability and change is co-produced in a multitude of locations. Drawing upon qualitative interview data, the article finds that new configurations of users and technology are currently emerging, elucidating dynamics of sociotechnical change, while cultural and geographical barriers to more radical mobility shifts are equally pronounced. As such, electric mobility currently finds itself between reinforcing the automobility system, while also engendering exciting new associations between drivers, cars and the world outside the windshield.
In vivo study of the angiogenesis potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell aggregates in their niche like environment
Authors: Anajafi Sara , Ranjbar Azam , Torabi-Rahvar Monireh , Ahmadbeigi Naser
Published: July 2021

Background:

Sufficient blood vessel formation in bioengineered tissues is essential in order to keep the viability of the organs. Impaired development of blood vasculatures results in failure of the implanted tissue. The cellular source which is seeded in the scaffold is one of the crucial factors involved in tissue engineering methods.

Materials and methods:

Considering the notable competence of Bone Marrow derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell aggregates for tissue engineering purposes, in this study BM-aggregates and expanded BM-MSCs were applied without any inductive agent or co-cultured cells, in order to investigate their own angiogenesis potency in vivo. BM-aggregates and BM-MSC were seeded in Poly-L Lactic acid (PLLA) scaffold and implanted in the peritoneal cavity of mice.

Result:

Immunohistochemistry results indicated that there was a significant difference ( p < 0.050) in CD31+ cells between PLLA scaffolds contained cultured BM-MSC; PLLA scaffolds contained BM-aggregates and empty PLLA. According to morphological evidence, obvious connections with recipient vasculature and acceptable integration with surroundings were established in MSC and aggregate-seeded scaffolds.

Conclusion:

Our findings revealed cultured BM-MSC and BM-aggregates, capacity in order to develop numerous connections between PLLA scaffold and recipient’s vasculature which is crucial to the survival of tissues, and considerable tendency to develop constructs containing CD31+ endothelial cells which can contribute in vessel’s tube formation.
Readability Analysis of Online Patient Educational Materials on Blepharoplasty
Authors: Patel Manish J. , Shah Parth V. , Garg Stuti P. , Cristel Robert T.
Published: July 2021

Blepharoplasty is a common procedure for correction of eyelid appearance. Online educational material among surgical procedures is often written higher than the recommended fifth-grade level. The objective of this study is to evaluate the readability of online patient education materials (OPEMs) available on Google for patients interested in blepharoplasty. Using 6 different pre-established readability scores, the top 100 Google results on blepharoplasty were screened for analysis. A total of 87 OPEMs were found to be relevant yielding an average grade reading level of 11.90 (range 7-20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.45-12.33). In addition, OPEMs readability scores were not influenced by whether the author was a medical provider. This study demonstrated the average reading level for available information on blepharoplasty is higher than the recommended fifth-grade reading level. Readability is only one metric for evaluating comprehendible information; however, authors of online medical education need to be more conscious of the public’s ability to comprehend and should tailor their content delivery appropriately.
Visitatio Christi: Matthew 25:33-46 as Apocalyptic-Ethical Impulse
Authors: De Maeseneer Yves
Published: July 2021

Through an exploration of the interpretation history of Matt. 25:33-46, this article develops an apocalyptic ethics based on Christ’s encountering us in the least of his brothers and sisters. Proposing the newly coined expression ‘ visitatio Christi’, the article offers a counterpoint to the common theological-ethical theme of imitatio Christi. First, it recalls how Jesus’ eschatological parable has time and again inspired love of the neighbour in need (e.g., the works of mercy) and challenged the scope of the required option for the poor (e.g., the debate about charity and structural change). Next, the article shows how an apocalyptic ethics based in Matthew 25, which imagines our moral life as a response to the visitatio Christi, implies a transformation of attitude/perception, a reversal of roles, and finds its source in the sacramental presence of Christ in the poor. Finally, the different aspects of the argument are recapitulated drawing upon Pope Francis’s use of Matthew 25.
Apocalyptic Birth Pangs: The Cross, Corporeality, and Epiphanic Manifestation in Apostolic Practice
Authors: Malcolm Lois
Published: July 2021

Thinking with, against, and after Ernst Käsemann’s appropriation of the biblical metaphor of eschatological birth pangs, this article seeks to reassess our understanding of what it means to be a theologian of the cross. It does so by way of a depiction of Paul’s apostolic practice as a social and embodied—and yet cruciform—mode of epiphanic manifestation. Thinking with Käsemann, it brings to the fore the significance of this apocalyptic understanding of apostolic practice for contemporary theological reflection at the interface of biblical studies, philosophy, and ethics. Thinking against Käsemann, it demonstrates ways in which this reading of Paul enables us to address more effectively major criticisms of a theology of the cross and Pauline theology in general. Finally, thinking after Käsemann, it discusses the ways that this portrayal of Paul’s practice funds resources for reconfiguring theological education ‘after whiteness’.
Mathematical simulation and prediction of tumor volume using RBF artificial neural network at different circumstances in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Akbarpour Ghazani Mehran , Saghafian Mohsen , Jalali Peyman , Soltani Madjid
Published: July 2021

Uncontrolled proliferation of cells in a tissue caused by genetic mutations inside a cell is referred to as a tumor. A tumor which grows rapidly encounters a barrier when it grows to a certain size in presence of preexisting vasculature. This is the time when it has to find a way to go on the growth. The tumor starts to secrete tumor angiogenic factors (TAFs) and stimulate preexisting vessels to grow new sprouts. These new sprouts will find their way to the tumor in the extracellular matrix (ECM) by the gradient of TAF. As these new capillaries anastomose and reach tumor, fresh oxygen is available for the tumor and it will reinitiate the growth. Number of initial sprouts, distance of initial tumor cells from the vessel(s) and initial density of the tumor at the time of sprout formation are questions which are to be investigated. In the present study, the aim is to find the response of tumor cells and vessels to the reciprocal effects of each other in different circumstances in the tissue. Together with a mathematical formulation, a radial basis function (RBF) neural network is established to predict the number of tumor cells at different circumstances including size and distance of initial tumors from the parent vessel. A final formulation is given for the final number of tumor cells as a function of initial tumor size and distance between a parent vessel and a tumor. Results of this simulation demonstrate that, increasing the distance between a tumor and a parent vessel decreases the number of final tumor cells. Specially, this decrement becomes faster beyond a certain distance. Moreover, initial tumors in bigger domains must become much bigger before inducing angiogenesis which makes it harder for them to survive.
Associations Between Ambient Particulate Air Pollution and Cognitive Function in Indonesian Children Living in Forest Fire–Prone Provinces
Authors: Jalaludin Bin , Garden Frances L. , Chrzanowska Agata , Haryanto Budi , Cowie Christine T. , Lestari Fatma , Morgan Geoffrey , Mazumdar Soumya , Metcalf Kasey , Marks Guy B.
Published: July 2021

Smoke from forest fires can reach hazardous levels for extended periods of time. We aimed to determine if there is an association between particulate matter ≤2.5 µm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) and living in a forest fire–prone province and cognitive function. We used data from the Indonesian Family and Life Survey. Cognitive function was assessed by the Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM). We used regression models to estimate associations between PM2.5 and living in a forest fire–prone province and cognitive function. In multivariable models, we found very small positive relationships between PM2.5 levels and RCPM scores (PM2.5 level at year of survey: β = 0.1%; 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.01, 0.19%]). There were no differences in RCPM scores for children living in forest fire–prone provinces compared with children living in non-forest fire–prone provinces (mean difference = −1.16%, 95% CI [–2.53, 0.21]). RCPM scores were lower for children who had lived in a forest fire–prone province all their lives compared with children who lived in a non-forest fire–prone province all their life (β = −1.50%; 95% CI [–2.94, –0.07]). Living in a forest fire–prone province for a prolonged period of time negatively affected cognitive scores after adjusting for individual factors.
Inequalities and Institutions that Benefit Good Apples
Authors: Zietsma Charlene
Published: July 2021

I describe three types of inequalities that benefit “good apples” and harm women in Academe: inequality of recognition, inequality of effort required, and inequality in societal institutions around home and career. I then describe three hard things that “good apples” can do, focusing on the institutional level: building awareness, changing structures and adapting social norms.
Campaign Contributions and Access to Congressional Offices: Patterns in Foreign Lobbying Data
Authors: Liu Huchen
Published: July 2021

Do lobbyists contribute money to legislators to build relationships in government? I show that lobbyists deploy resources strategically to get access to officials by analyzing newly available data on foreign lobbying in the U.S. government from 1998 to 2019, which contain information on lobbyists’ campaign contributions and contact with officials. Using supervised machine learning models, I identify lobbyist requests for access to members of Congress and classify them as either successful or unsuccessful. The data show that lobbyists request access almost exclusively to legislators to whom they made campaign contributions. Furthermore, lobbyists who contributed money to legislators are more likely to gain access to them than lobbyists who did not, but only if the legislators are ideologically similar and in the same party. While the data and research design I employ do not allow me to infer causal influence of contributions on access, these results suggest that lobbyists make contributions to foster an environment conducive to contact with like-minded officials.
Examining the Structural and External Validity of the Adult Concentration Inventory for Assessing Sluggish Cognitive Tempo in Adults
Authors: Fredrick Joseph W. , Burns G. Leonard , Langberg Joshua M. , Becker Stephen P.
Published: July 2021

The Adult Concentration Inventory (ACI) is an adult self-report measure of sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) developed following a meta-analysis identifying items distinguishing SCT from attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) inattention. To date, only one study conducted in college students has examined the structural and external validity of the ACI. The current study evaluated the convergent and discriminative validity of the ACI in a community sample of adults, in addition to testing unique associations with internalizing symptoms, daily life executive functions, and sleep. Adults ( N = 286; Mage = 44.45; 83.6% female) completed ratings of SCT, ADHD symptom dimensions, and external correlates. An a priori two-factor model with cross-loadings found 10 of the 16 SCT items to have high loadings on the SCT factor and low loadings on the ADHD inattention factor. SCT was uniquely associated with higher internalizing symptoms, time management and self-organization difficulties, poorer sleep quality, shorter sleep duration, lower sleep efficiency, and more daytime sleepiness. These findings replicate and extend support for the ACI in assessing SCT in adults.
Harmonic and shock wave propagation in bistable periodic structure: Regularity, randomness, and tunability
Authors: Liu Encai , Fang Xin , Wen Jihong
Published: July 2021

Nonlinear periodic structures can present abundant nonlinear wave physics. The model consisting of periodic bistable oscillators (i.e., the bistable periodic structure) is essentially different from those nonlinear periodic systems consisting of monostable oscillators due to multiple equilibria in bistable periodic structure. Despite the extensive attention received, properties of harmonic and shock wave propagation in bistable periodic structure, especially the randomness and tunability behind regularity, have not been fully understood. This article reports the answers based on numerical method. We consider the varying trends of the band gap, vibration center, wave amplitude, and transmission and show their effects on energy transport. We find that the snap-through behavior always presents local intrinsic randomness with the regularity in whole, that is, it does not happen in sequence. For both harmonic and shock wave, most energy is localized inside the snap-through oscillators that changes the regularity for energy transport and is meaningful for shock wave protection. Bistable periodic structure can present very low-frequency and broadband wave attenuation by shifting the initial frequency of the band gap to nearly zero through tuning the wave amplitude to a critical value, which offers dynamic tunability. The damping and intensity of the shock pulse have significant effects on the shock wave propagation. This work provides guidance for the design and application of bistable periodic structure for elastic wave attenuation and shock wave protection.
We’re Not That Choosy: Emerging Evidence of a Progression Bias in Romantic Relationships
Authors: Joel Samantha , MacDonald Geoff
Published: July 2021

Dating is widely thought of as a test phase for romantic relationships, during which new romantic partners carefully evaluate each other for long-term fit. However, this cultural narrative assumes that people are well equipped to reject poorly suited partners. In this article, we argue that humans are biased toward pro-relationship decisions—decisions that favor the initiation, advancement, and maintenance of romantic relationships. We first review evidence for a progression bias in the context of relationship initiation, investment, and breakup decisions. We next consider possible theoretical underpinnings—both evolutionary and cultural—that may explain why getting into a relationship is often easier than getting out of one, and why being in a less desirable relationship is often preferred over being in no relationship at all. We discuss potential boundary conditions that the phenomenon may have, as well as its implications for existing theoretical models of mate selection and relationship development.
Immunotherapy-related gastritis: Two case reports and literature review
Authors: Woodford Rachel , Briscoe Karen , Tustin Richard , Jain Ankit
Published: July 2021

Immunotherapy is increasingly defining a role in a wide variety of tumours such that as use becomes more ubiquitous, so too will the complications. A relatively rare complication of immunotherapy use is immune-related gastritis. In this case series, we present two cases of immunotherapy-related gastritis from our institution and undertake a comprehensive review and analysis of the literature around this less common adverse event.
Autism diagnosis as a social process
Authors: Hayes Jennie , Ford Tamsin , McCabe Rose , Russell Ginny
Published: July 2021

The diagnosis of autism can be challenging, particularly if an individual coming for assessment is considered to be near the diagnostic threshold. It is important to understand the experiences and challenges of diagnosis from the perspective of clinicians. In this study, 21 in-depth interviews were conducted with clinicians working in specialist autism assessment teams in adult and children’s services in England. Interviews were recorded and transcripts were analysed thematically. We identified four themes that represented how clinicians were frequently engaged with juggling their own professional understanding of what autism is with other factors such as the results of standardised tests and the views of patients and carers, in the context of limited resources: institutional pressure, making diagnosis make sense, seeing through an autism lens and just tools. The study illuminates the diagnostic process as a socially situated activity. We suggest that an examination of the benefits and drawbacks of assessment services specialising in autism only, the resources they require to operate effectively, and how they operate in the context of wider health services would be appropriate and timely.

Lay abstract

When a child or adult is referred for an autism diagnosis, clinicians from different backgrounds work together to make a diagnostic decision. A few studies have asked clinicians in interview how they feel about diagnosis and what the challenges are. We interviewed clinicians in child and adult assessment services in England, and from different professional backgrounds, about the challenges of autism diagnosis and the factors that might influence the assessment process. We found that there were a number of challenges in autism diagnosis, especially when someone coming for diagnosis was considered to be near the diagnostic threshold. Clinicians told us that making a diagnosis was like creating a ‘narrative’: looking at many different factors that told a story about a person, rather than just looking at the results of diagnostic tests. Clinicians do not always agree with the results of those tests and have to use their specialist clinical judgement to make decisions. Clinicians were concerned about the amount of time people have to wait for an autism assessment, and the resulting pressure on the assessment process. The findings of this work can help us to understand how diagnosis happens and consider ways in which it can be improved for adults, children and families coming for assessment, as well as clinicians.
Theatrics of transnational criminal justice: Ethnographies of penality in a global age
Authors: Sausdal David , Lohne Kjersti
Published: July 2021

This special issue sets out to explore the Theatrics of Transnational Criminal Justice. ‘Why’, we ask, ‘do transnational criminal justice actors perform themselves as they do?’ ‘Why are their representations frequently, if not different from, then often quite dramatized versions of the average reality of their practices?’ ‘What does such dramatization tell us about not only the symbolism but also the structure and state of transnational criminal justice?’ And, more generally, ‘what do such performances of transnational criminal justice reveal about the nature of penal power in a global day and age?’ In probing such questions, the special issue draws together a number of accomplished ethnographers who have been exploring the performative nature of transnational criminal justice issues around the world, considering both international bodies such as Frontex, Europol, UNODC, the ICC as well as the many national actors involved in the prevention, policing and prosecution of border-crossing issues.
Second language experience influences salience of phonological units in spoken word production in the first language
Authors: Wang Jie , Wong Andus Wing-Kuen , Chen Hsuan-Chih
Published: July 2021

Research question:

Previous research suggests that the grain size of primary phonological units (PUs) in spoken word production is language-specific (e.g., phonemic segments in Germanic languages, and atonal syllables in Chinese). When the two languages of bilingual speakers have different primary PUs in their native speakers, will first language (L1) phonological processing be influenced by second language (L2) experience?

Methodology:

In a picture–word interference task, native Chinese speakers who spoke English as L2 were required to say aloud the predesignated L1 name of a picture while ignoring a written L1 character superimposed on the picture. The picture name shared a certain phonological component (i.e., rhyme or atonal syllable) with the distractor in the related condition but not in the unrelated condition.

Data and analysis:

Data of 186 participants from eight originally independent experiments were pooled. Multiple regression analyses were conducted on subject means to investigate whether the effects of rhyme relatedness and syllable relatedness on L1 naming latency were influenced by L2 self-rated proficiency, age of acquisition (AoA), and/or years of use. Trial-by-trial data were then analyzed with linear mixed-effects modeling.

Findings:

Both the rhyme effect and the syllable effect increased with years of L2 use, indicating that the salience of PUs in L1 spoken word production can be influenced by L2 experience.

Originality:

The current study adopted a chronometric approach to investigate the influence of L2 experience on phonological processing during L1 spoken word production. Importantly, multiple aspects of L2 experience (i.e., self-rated proficiency, AoA, and years of use) were examined at the same time in a relatively large sample.

Implications:

The current findings provide evidence for backward transfer of primary PUs in spoken word production, which demonstrates the plasticity of the phonological encoding process in bilingual speakers. These findings are discussed and compared with cross-language transfer of phonological awareness in the discussion.
Numerical analysis of concentrically loaded hexagonal concrete-filled steel tubular short columns incorporating concrete confinement
Authors: Ahmed Mizan , Liang Qing Quan
Published: July 2021

Hexagonal concrete-filled steel tubular (HCFST) columns have been used to carry large loads in tall composite buildings. Their behavior and strength are different from those of circular and square concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns due to the confinement effect. This article describes a computational modeling method of nonlinear fiber analysis recognizing the concrete confinement for the response simulation of HCFST short columns subjected to axial compression. New constitutive relations of confinement for quantifying the confining stresses on the concrete confined by the hexagonal steel tube and the residual concrete strength are developed by means of analyzing existing test data. The computational modeling program written is verified by existing experimental data and then employed to ascertain the behavior of HCFST columns with important parameters. The current design standards for CFST circular columns are used to determine the strengths of HCFST columns to evaluate their applicability to the design of HCFST columns. Proposed is a new simple design equation for computing the axial capacities of HCFST columns. The computational model and the design equation proposed are shown to be accurate, and effective simulation and design tools for HCSFT stub columns that are loaded concentrically in comparisons with the current design codes.
Post-traumatic carotid cavernous fistula: A case report
Authors: Indulekha Haritha , Sama Sonu , Chandrakar Saurabh , Panda Sagarika , Hashim Mohmmad , Gupta Achint , Chander Udhay
Published: July 2021

A carotid cavernous fistula is an abnormal connection between the carotid artery and cavernous sinus which is a rare and sight threatening complication of craniofacial trauma. We report a case of a 36-year-old man with history of road traffic accident, flail chest, on mechanical ventilation who developed redness and progressive swelling of right eye. On evaluation, he was found to have right-sided conjunctival chemosis, pulsatile proptosis, and loud bruit on auscultation over right eyeball. Non-contrast computed tomography revealed multiple skull bone fractures with prominence of right-sided cavernous sinus and superior ophthalmic vein. Contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging with angiography revealed bulky cavernous sinus with tortuous right superior ophthalmic vein suggestive of right carotid cavernous fistula. Carotid cavernous fistula should be considered as a differential diagnosis for a critically ill patient with history of trauma developing swollen red eyes as the typical signs and symptoms cannot be assessed in patients on mechanical ventilation. The timely diagnosis and prompt treatment can save vision and can improve the outcome.
Global platforms and asymmetrical power: Industry dynamics and opportunities for policy change
Authors: Ihlebæk Karoline Andrea , Sundet Vilde Schanke
Published: July 2021

Global platforms have radically changed institutional dynamics within the media industry. In this study, we explore how national media organisations manoeuvre in an increasingly uneven playing field. Combining theoretical perspectives from platform studies and the media policy field approach, we analyse how asymmetrical platform power impacts industry-policy relations in a small-nation context. We find that national players collectively frame the power of global platforms as a potential threat to the media sector and to democracy. In this framing, all the players – regardless of size or market position – define themselves as ‘small’ to signal a common threat and mission across the industry. Being ‘small’ however does not entail the same for all players, which results in different action logics. We also find that industry players use collective framing to protect existing support schemes and to legitimate the call for new ones, while they seek international collaboration to impact regulation of global platforms.
Gendering in the electoral run: A media monitoring study of women politicians’ representation in Belgian news
Authors: D’Heer Joke , De Vuyst Sara , Van Leuven Sarah
Published: July 2021

The present study explores gendered representations in Belgian electoral news coverage. Compared to other Western countries, Belgium has consistently reported a small share of female politicians in the news, offering limited insights into the ways they are portrayed. Starting from the observation that the (mainly Anglo-Saxon) body of work on women politicians’ representation has reported mixed findings, the study intends to provide a more comprehensive analysis by taking political and contextual factors into account. By means of a quantitative content analysis, we monitored news content prior to the 2019 Belgian elections, resulting in a sample of 981 television, newspaper, radio and web-based news items. The findings confirm the persistence of gendered patterns in Belgian news content, regardless of a candidate’s political characteristics. Women were less often represented and their gender, appearance and family life were more often highlighted. Whereas a candidate’s political power provided additional insights into gendering, some differences in coverage between candidates could not be explained by either sex or political characteristics. Lastly, differences between media were limited, though web-based news was more negative in tone.
Inequities in first education policy responses to the COVID-19 crisis: A comparative analysis in four Central and East European countries
Authors: Mitescu-Manea M. , Safta-Zecheria L. , Neumann E. , Bodrug-Lungu V. , Milenkova V. , Lendzhova V.
Published: July 2021

The historically high inequities in the education systems of Central and East-European countries have been further exacerbated in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using critical frame analysis, we compared the education policy debates in Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria and Republic of Moldova during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with a particular focus on inequities. We discuss the policy frames proposed and utilized by governmental and non-governmental actors to understand their roles played in articulating policy responses to the COVID-19 crisis, and highlight the specificities and commonalities of the political language within and across the national borders of the four countries. We conclude with our findings on the dynamics and structure of the policy debate between state and non-state actors in times of crisis with a particular focus on policy spaces and policy temporalities. Two ways of constructing spatio-temporalities co-exist: one is national, state and public health centric and focuses on governing ‘through’ the crisis; and the other is focused on long term planning while constructing the crisis as an opportunity for decisive intervention towards more equitable education.
Percutaneous Transgastric Duodenal Stenting and Gastrostomy Repair Using a Vascular Closure Device: Proof of Concept in a Porcine Model
Authors: Shlomovitz Eran , Patel Neeral R. , Diana Michele , Pescarus Radu , Swanström Lee L.
Published: July 2021

Introduction. Gastroduodenal stenting is efficacious and safe in both benign and malignant foregut diseases. Transgastric duodenal stenting has been described and however requires a gastrostomy tube to remain in situ for 4 to 6 weeks post-procedure which can lead to complications. We present a technique for immediate gastric repair using a suture-mediated vascular closure device, without the need for a gastrostomy tube in porcine models. Methods. Percutaneous access into the stomach was achieved using fluoroscopy. Two or 3 Perclose Proglide devices were pre-deployed. The tract was dilated and a wire advanced into the distal duodenum. A 15.5 cm covered enteric stent was delivered through the gastrostomy, deployed and position confirmed. The gastrostomy was closed using Perclose Proglide sutures. Necropsy leak pressure measurement was performed to assess integrity of gastrostomy closure in the porcine models. Results. Two (n = 8) or 3 (n = 2) Perclose Proglide devices were deployed in ten porcine models, with 1 misfire (4.5%). Percutaneous transgastric access and stent delivery was successful in all porcine models. Mean leak pressure in the animals with adequately deployed devices was 219 mmHg (range 172 mmHg–270 mmHg). Conclusion. This study demonstrates percutaneous transgastric duodenal stenting with immediate gastric repair using suture-mediated vascular closure devices is a feasible procedure.
Venture Capital Investment in Orthopaedics: Has the Landscape Changed over the Past Two Decades (2000–2019)?
Authors: Cwalina Thomas B. , Jella Tarun K. , Acuña Alexander J. , Samuel Linsen T. , Kamath Atul F.
Published: July 2021

Background. Innovations in orthopaedic technologies often require significant funding. Although an increasing trend has been observed for third-party investments in other medical fields, no study has examined the influence of venture capital (VC) funding in orthopaedics. Therefore, this study analyzed trends in VC investments related to the field of orthopaedic surgery, as well as the characteristics of recipients of these investments. Methods. Venture capital investments into orthopaedic-related businesses were reviewed from 2000 to 2019 using Capital IQ, a proprietary intelligence platform documenting financial investments. Metrics categorized were investments by year, investment amount, and subspecialty domain as per the American Academy Orthopaedic Surgeons website. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for both quantity and dollar amount of investments was calculated over the study period and the two decade-long periods (2000–2009 and 2010–2019). Results. Over two decades, 673 VC investments took place, involving a total of US$3.5 billion. Both the number and dollar value of investments were greater in the second decade (440, US$1.9 billion), compared to the first decade (233, US$1.6 billion). Both quantity and dollar amount of VC investments grew over the first decade, with a CAGR 9.53% and 4.97%, respectively. However, investment growth declined in the latter decade. The largest and most frequent investments took place within spine surgery and adult reconstruction. Conclusion. An initially rising trend in VC investment in orthopaedic-related businesses may have plateaued over the past decade. These findings may have important implications for continued investment into orthopaedic innovations and collaboration between the surgical community and private sector.
A Retrospective Analysis of Group-Based Boxing Exercise on Measures of Physical Mobility in Patients With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Sonne James W. H. , Joslyn Kyle , Reus Katherine , Angulo Michelle , Guettler Sarah , Beato Morris C.
Published: July 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this retrospective study is to further the limited body of evidence regarding the effects of a group-based boxing intervention for those with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Design: A retrospective cohort study was performed analyzing data collected on outcome measures at 6-month intervals up to 2 years. Individuals participated in the standardized “Rock Steady Boxing” (RSB) program for up to 24 months. Every 6 months, measures were taken of balance (Fullerton Advanced Balance [FAB] Scale), functional mobility (Timed-Up and Go [TUG]), lower extremity strength (30-second Chair Stand [30CST]), and gait speed (10 Meter Walk Test [10MWT]).

Methods: Statistical significance ( P < .05) was determined by a two-tailed t test. Data were collected from RSB-affiliated programs at 4 locations across the southeastern United States. Current and/or past participants in RSB with baseline and at least one subsequent outcome measure were included, resulting in 68 participants (54 male, 14 female, and mean age of 71.2 years ± 8.56 standard deviation).

Results: Statistically significant improvements in FAB scale, TUG, and 30CST over time were found at both 6- and 12-month time points. Significant changes continued through 18 months for FAB and 30CST. No significant changes in 10MWT were observed; however, a moderate effect size was observed at the 1-year point.

Conclusions: Participants with PD were able to achieve statistically significant improvements in standard measures of functional mobility, balance, and strength within the timeline of this study. Limitations include the retrospective nature, an inability to monitor adherence, and lack of control over pharmaceutical or other interventions.
Study on performance of thrust disk as auxiliary impeller
Authors: Bai Yuxing , Zhao Fei , Zhou Pan , Xu Yijun , Li Xin , Kong Fanyu , Xia Bin
Published: July 2021

Thrust disk as auxiliary impeller has a vital effect on the big power pump unit with wet motor. It can balance the axial force of the unit, provide power for internal cooling circulation circuit of motor, and further reduce the axial length of the unit. Due to the motor chamber space is limited, and the transmission medium is liquid which needs to consider the effect of cavitation, the research of thrust disk of auxiliary impeller is different from the previous studies of rotating channel. In this paper, the hydraulic performance and cavitation characteristics of thrust disk as auxiliary impeller are investigated experimentally under different conditions. A thrust disk test rig was established to obtain data under different rotation speeds and flow points. Three types of volutes with different outlet angles were designed to match the thrust disk as auxiliary impeller in experiments. Results indicate that the law of speed proportion for the traditional centrifugal pump is not applicable to the head of thrust disk as auxiliary impeller. In addition, the flow coverage increases slightly with rotation speed. Furthermore, the higher the speed is, the larger the NPSHs is, and the narrower the range of NPSH is. Besides, the smaller the outlet angle is, the higher the head of the thrust disk as auxiliary impeller is, the worse anti-cavitation performance is. The research could provide reference and guidance for the design of thrust disk as auxiliary impeller.
Ethical and practical considerations in HIV drug trial closure: perspectives of research staff in Uganda
Authors: Nalubega Sylivia , Cox Karen , Mugerwa Henry , Evans Catrin
Published: July 2021

There is a gap in evidence regarding how research trial closure processes are managed to ensure continuity of HIV care for HIV positive participants following trial closure within low income settings. This research aimed to establish how research staff in Uganda understood and practised post-trial care for HIV positive trial participants. A grounded theory study was conducted using in-depth individual interviews and focus group discussions with 22 research staff from three different trials in Uganda. The results indicated that researchers engaged in three main activities to support trial participants, including: (i) preparing for post-trial care, which included instituting trial closure guidelines, planning necessary resources, and informing trial participants about post-trial care; (ii) facilitating participants during trial exit by engaging in psychological and practical support activities and (iii) providing follow up care and support for participants after trial exit, to respond to the needs of trial participants which often arose after trial exit. This study established a need for a holistic approach to post-trial-care of HIV positive trial participants in Uganda, and the need to engage multiple stakeholders including ethics authorities.