bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive control and disturbance compensation for gear transmission servo systems with large-range inertia variation
Authors: Wang Xiang , Wang Baofang , Wu Yifei , Guo Jian , Chen Qingwei
Published: September 2021

In gear transmission servo systems, backlash effect and inertia variation often generate low precision, oscillations or even affect the stability. Focusing on this issue, an adaptive terminal integral sliding mode control (ATISMC) strategy and a discrete linear extended state observer (DLESO) are proposed in this article. First, different from using traditional dynamic model, a characteristic model is established with online parameter identification to describe inertia variation. Then, a DLESO is proposed to observe and compensate the modeling error caused by parameter identification and backlash effect. An ATISMC is newly designed based on the characteristic model to suppress the uncertainties and stabilize the whole closed-loop system. Both the uniform ultimate boundedness of observation error and the practical finite-time stability of the system is proved. Finally, simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed strategy can adapt to large-range inertia variation and suppress the backlash effect.
Reflections on Experiences at a Residential Science and Math High School: An Alumni Survey
Authors: Wilson Hope E.
Published: September 2021

Residential Science High Schools (RSHS) for academically talented students that focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) provide opportunities for high school students to accelerate their education. This study examines the results of a retrospective survey from one RSHS, including alumni for more than 20 years after graduation. The results indicate that the alumni have high levels of educational attainment and careers in STEM fields. In addition, the alumni perceive their experiences at the RSHS to have been positive, and that the RSHS prepared them for their educational pursuits, careers, social experiences, and future leadership positions. Finally, although the alumni did report a drop in academic self-concept while they were in the program, this drop did not appear to have an effect on their long-term goals or educational attainment. The implications for this study are to support the use of radical acceleration in the form of residential schools for an educational intervention for academically talented high school students.
Micro, Meso, and Macro Processes in Identity Change: The 2020 Cooley-Mead Award Address
Authors: Stets Jan E.
Published: September 2021

I discuss how social psychologists can think about identity change as a nested phenomenon. Identity change occurs at the micro level, but it is embedded in meso and macro levels of social reality. I use changes in the religious identity in the United States as an example of how we can conceptualize identity change in this way. This approach enables us to broaden the scope of social psychological work to be more inclusive of the various social forces at all levels of social reality that impact the human processes we study.
Hervé Guibert as Foucault might have imagined him
Authors: Tanke Joseph
Published: September 2021

This essay attempts to reconfigure our understanding of the relationship between Michel Foucault and the French photographer and writer Hervé Guibert. It contends that this relationship has been misunderstood inasmuch as it has been described in terms of a dynamic of confession and betrayal. In place of this familiar understanding, developed largely by James Miller, this essay seeks to create the grounds for a Foucaultian appreciation of Guibert’s work as both photographer and writer. On the basis of Guibert’s Ghost Image, as well as several clues scattered throughout Foucault’s corpus, this essay argues that Guibert’s work issues in an anti-realist aesthetics that allows for desire to be articulated outside of the deployment of sexuality. In the final section of the essay, I use these concepts in order to suggest a reading of some of Guibert’s most famous images, including the portrait of Foucault contained in Guibert’s 1990 novel, To the Friend Who Did Not Save My Life. In general, I aim to show that Guibert’s different works enact the Foucaultian notion of a friendship of between men, wherein the aim is to invent new ways of giving each other pleasure.
Sodomites, witches, and Indians: Another look at Foucault’s history of sexuality, volume one
Authors: McWhorter Ladelle
Published: September 2021

Does Foucault’s work on sexuality open toward the possibility of a genealogy of sex understood as binary anatomical and genetic sexual difference? I believe that it does. I argue that, if we take seriously work by Mark Jordan, Ann Laura Stoler, and Sylvia Federici, coupled with Foucault’s own statement at the end of HS1 that sex is not an anchor for sexuality but, rather, “a complex idea that was formed inside the deployment of sexuality” (152), the possibility of a time before sex or an elsewhere apart from sex becomes quite thinkable. Constructing such a genealogy would likely require careful research into ways in which Europeans imposed binary sex upon those they terrorized and colonized around the globe. Examples gestured toward here include the Yorùbá in Africa as well as a number of peoples of the Americas.
Modified del Nido versus blood cardioplegia in congenital cardiac surgery
Authors: Sithiamnuai Pitipong , Tocharoenchok Teerapong
Published: September 2021

Background

Lactated Ringer-based del Nido cardioplegia has been reported to be safe for acquired cardiac surgery. The original Plasma-Lyte-based solution has been proved for congenital cardiac surgery but its modification has not been adequately examined. We compared the clinical outcomes of congenital cardiac surgery using lactated Ringer-based del Nido cardioplegia versus cold blood cardioplegia.

Methods

Between September 2018 and November 2020, 116 consecutive patients with congenital heart disease undergoing operations with cardioplegic arrest performed by a single surgeon at Faculty of Medicine Siriraj hospital; 66 with modified del Nido solution and 50 with institutional's blood cardioplegia. The patient risk profiles, operative details, mortality rates, care durations, inotrope use, blood transfusion and complications were compared.

Results

Preoperative characteristics were similar between groups, including median age (2.5 vs. 3.1 years; p = 0.49), size, and gender. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons-European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery score of 3 to 5 was more prevalent in the del Nido group (24.2% vs. 10%; p = 0.049). There were 4 deaths in the modified del Nido group (risk category score of 4) but none in the cold blood group (p = 0.13). There was no significant difference in median intubation duration, length of intensive care unit stay, and vasoactive medications immediately and 24 h after the operation. The del Nido group required 70 to 100 ml less blood transfusion (p = 0.04). All complications were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Clinical outcomes of lactated Ringer-based del Nido cardioplegia were comparable to those of blood cardioplegia in congenital cardiac surgery.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in Jehovah’s Witness patients: Case report, literature review, and summary of recommendations
Authors: Mera Abrahán , Argudo Eduard , Martínez-Martínez María , Palmada Clara , Bonilla Camilo , Pacheco Andrés , Chiscano Luis , Marín Gemma , Lozano Beatriz , Gallart Elisabet , Riera Jordi
Published: September 2021

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is commonly associated with a high blood transfusion requirement. Jehovah’s Witness patients present a particular challenge. The impossibility of transfusing blood cells and starting anticoagulation treatment are common contraindications for this supportive measure. Here we report the case of a Jehovah’s Witness patient with refractory hypoxemia due to influenza A H1N1 pneumonia who required venovenous ECMO for 11 days. We describe the use of a bloodless approach to reduce the waste of blood, avoiding anticoagulation, and improving red blood cell production. We then summarize the current literature on the use of ECMO in Jehovah’s Witness patients and, finally, we propose some recommendations for their management.
Mitochondrial quality control in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: An Hong , Zhou Bing , Ji Xunming
Published: September 2021

Mitochondria play a central role in the pathophysiological processes of acute ischemic stroke. Disruption of the cerebral blood flow during acute ischemic stroke interrupts oxygen and glucose delivery, leading to the dysfunction of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and cellular bioenergetic stress. Cells can respond to such stress by activating mitochondrial quality control mechanisms, including the mitochondrial unfolded protein response, mitochondrial fission and fusion, mitophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, and intercellular mitochondrial transfer. Collectively, these adaptive response strategies contribute to retaining the integrity and function of the mitochondrial network, thereby helping to recover the homeostasis of the neurovascular unit. In this review, we focus on mitochondrial quality control mechanisms occurring in acute ischemic stroke. A better understanding of how these regulatory pathways work in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis will provide a rationale for developing innovative neuroprotectants when these mechanisms fail in acute ischemic stroke.
Examining Positive Youth Development Interventions With a Physical Activity Component to Address Bullying Among Pre- and Early Adolescents: A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Majed Elzahraa , Ruiz Yumary , Amireault Steve , Reed Jason B. , Snyder Frank J. , McDonough Meghan H. , Blankenship Bonnie
Published: September 2021

This review aimed at identifying specific features of PYD interventions with a PA component that appear most promising at reducing bullying behaviors among pre- and early adolescents. We reviewed articles that included PYD interventions with a PA component among pre- and early adolescents aged 8–14 years from five databases and found seven studies representing 3892 participants. Studies collectively showed that PYD-PA interventions can promote an interactive and supportive relationship between participants and staff and foster adolescents’ psychosocial development. The review’s limitations include the variation of PA components and geographical contexts of interventions leading to a difficulty in synthesizing the results. PA-based PYD interventions provide a promising approach that can foster youth’s psychosocial development such as the use of an interactive approach and the use of several PYD components (e.g., empathy and caring ). This approach, consequently, may lower bullying behaviors. Given the nature of this review, further evaluation is warranted.
Validating the Supervision Partnership as a Phase of Attachment
Authors: Koehn Amanda J. , Kerns Kathryn A.
Published: September 2021

The goal of this study was to expand current attachment models by validating a three-component model of the supervision partnership conceptualization of attachment (accessibility and availability of attachment figures, willingness to communicate, and mutual recognition of other’s rights in decision-making). The model was tested by examining associations with parenting, friendship quality, other attachment measures, temperament, and IQ. In a sample of 92 10- to 14-year-olds, the three components of the supervision partnership were significantly related to each other, other attachment measures and child reports of parenting and friendship, and demonstrated some discriminant validity with temperament and IQ. This study provides support for the supervision partnership as a phase of attachment in late middle childhood and early adolescence.
Hydrogel plus growth factors treatment after 2940nm erbium:YAG lattice laser improves periorbital wrinkles and wound healing: a case report
Authors: Zeng Jiaqi , Li Zhen , Lin Feiyan , Fu Shaohong , Li Jingyi , Zhai Yabin
Published: September 2021

Skin aging is an inevitable physiological process and periorbital wrinkling is an active sign of the process. Laser therapy is an effective method for improving periorbital wrinkles and wound care after laser therapy can accelerate the wound healing process. This case report describes a typical case of a 47-year-old male that presented with a 10-year history of gradually-worsening bilateral periorbital wrinkles. These were treated using a 2940 nm erbium (Er):YAG lattice laser combined with recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) gel and hydrogel (HG) treatment on the left side of his face compared with laser therapy and bFGF gel on the right side of his face. HG combined with bFGF gel treatment after 2940 nm Er:YAG lattice laser therapy improved postoperative swelling and pigmentation compared with bFGF gel alone; and it promoted periorbital wrinkle improvement and wound healing. In conclusion, HG combined with GFs after laser therapy could be an alternative therapy for periorbital wrinkles.
Tuberculosis in an infant with Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis: a case report
Authors: Song Yue , Yang Changqiang , Wang Hua
Published: September 2021

Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC) is a serious and life-threatening condition, and atypical tuberculosis (TB) associated with HAEC is even more serious. A male newborn aged 4 days was diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease and transanal Soave pull-through was performed at 4 months old. Six months later, he suffered from enterocolitis. Although he was treated with multiple broad-spectrum antibiotics for 2 weeks, he developed a fever without any other symptoms for TB infection. We found numerous, bilateral, uniformly distributed, small pulmonary nodules in the lower lobes in an abdominal radiograph by chance. He was then discharged with complete resolution of all symptoms after anti-TB therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment of TB can effectively improve the prognosis of children with HAEC.
Forecasting Federal Transportation Performance Management Bridge Condition Measures for Bridge Management
Authors: Thompson Paul D.
Published: September 2021

Many common processes of bridge management can benefit from network-level analysis of long-term costs and condition, on a time frame of about 10 years. Such processes include development and implementation of Transportation Asset Management Plans, long-range needs analysis, capital budgeting and programming, and policy analysis. The ability to forecast federal Transportation Performance Management (TPM) condition measures would provide managers with a way of evaluating the possible outcomes of funding, programming, and policy decisions. A model for this purpose has been developed as a part of StruPlan, an open-source spreadsheet for long-range renewal planning for transportation structures. Element condition state data are found to be highly exponential in distribution, while the federal measures “Percent Good” and “Percent Poor” are categorical when applied to specific bridges. Element data, providing more detail about the type, severity, and extent of defects, are valuable for deterioration modeling, while the TPM measures are simpler for reporting to stakeholders. A set of models was developed to bridge the gap between these measures. Thus far, the models have been calibrated and pilot tested using Idaho, South Dakota, and Kentucky data. The model is a novel approach that has not been attempted elsewhere, that may simplify important parts of bridge management and provide some valuable new ideas for researchers and developers.
Stated Preference Analysis of Automated Vehicles among California Residents Using Probabilistic Inferences
Authors: Hinda Salum Jimoku , Kutela Boniphace , Kitali Angela E. , Kidando Emmanuel
Published: September 2021

As technology advances, improvements in the way people travel also occur. In 2017, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) conducted a travel survey in California to understand residents’ perception of several aspects of mobility. This study used the data collected by NREL to understand various factors associated with safety perceptions and acquisition of automated vehicles among California residents. Bayesian networks (BNs) were used to learn the probabilistic interrelationships between aspects of automated vehicles. The predicted probabilities for safety concerns about vehicles with full driving automation (FAVs), purchase of vehicles with auto-drive assistance, and purchase of FAVs were determined after learning the BN structure and parameters from the data. The study found a strong relationship between the acquisition of automated vehicles and vehicles with auto-drive assistance. The BN model predicted that residents who are interested in purchasing vehicles with auto-drive assistance also have about 95% likelihood of purchasing FAVs. Moreover, ridesharing, number of vehicles in the household, housing type, and plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) ownership are among other factors playing a great role in the acquisition and safety perception of automated vehicles. Residents who are currently participating in ridesharing and living in apartments are more likely to purchase vehicles with auto-drive assistance. Residents who either own a PEV or have three or more vehicles are more likely to have safety concerns about FAVs. Additionally, residents who do not have safety concerns about FAVs have about a 45% likelihood of purchasing them. These results could provide valuable user opinion information for vehicle developers and other stakeholders.
Reasons for Premature Closure of a Mentoring Relationship: A Qualitative Study of Mentoring Youth With a Visual Impairment
Authors: Heppe Eline C. M. , Kupersmidt Janis B. , Kef Sabina
Published: September 2021

Preventing mentor-mentee relationships from ending prematurely is important because an early or unanticipated closure could lead to negative youth outcomes. In this study, the reasons for premature closure of a community-based mentoring program for youth with a visual impairment (VI) are studied. Data from 44 prematurely ended mentor-mentee pairs were analyzed; all mentees ( M age = 18.5, SD = 1.92) and 23 of the mentors had VI. Logbook data with two types of transcribed semi-structured interviews were thematically coded line-by-line. Frequencies of coded responses provided insight into the most frequently reported reasons and the most frequently reported problems. Chi-square analyses were conducted to study differences between matches in the two conditions (i.e., matches containing mentors with or without VI). Regardless of the condition, premature closure was primarily initiated by mentees, and the most common cause was reported to be due to deficiencies in mentors’ relationship skills. Matches with a mentor with VI experienced more problems within one domain of the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) model. These results show that additional pre-match mentor and supplementary mentee training are needed to increase relationship success in mentoring programs serving youth with VI.
How Transgender Adolescents Experience Expressing Their Gender Identity Around New People: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Wilson Hannah , Malik Aiysha , Thompson Sam
Published: September 2021

The literature suggests gender expression to be a key experience of transgender young people that may impact upon the development of their gender identity and psychological well-being. The present study aimed to explore participants’ experiences of expressing their gender identity around others, with a focus on interactions with new people (with whom they do not have an existing relationship). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight young people aged 16 to 17 who identified as male and were assigned female at birth. Three superordinate themes were identified: (a) using gender expression to shape identity; (b) experiencing and making sense of others’ responses; (c) a changing relationship with gender expression. The process of gender expression enabled participants to explore, develop, and strengthen social and self-identity, and had both positive and negative impacts upon their well-being. Initially gender expression seemed to be an effortful process in which participants felt pressured to conform to social expectations to be viewed as male, yet over time they navigated a way to express themselves in a manner that felt more comfortable and authentic. Findings highlight the need to facilitate young people to express and be affirmed in their gender identity, and to provide adequate support with the social experiences surrounding it.
Tackling Drug-Lords in a Nascent Market: Raids and Drug Crime in Uruguay
Authors: Bogliaccini Juan A. , Pereira Diego , Pereira Juan Ignacio , Giambruno Cecilia , Borba Ignacio
Published: September 2021

This article analyzes the effects of police raids for different types of crime in the most conflictive neighborhoods of Montevideo, Uruguay. Interrupted time-series and intervention models are estimated using different specifications of geographical area where the crackdowns occurred and also different control strategies to produce robust results. The effect of crackdowns on crime reporting is mixed; evidence suggesting crackdowns may produce short- and long-term effects on crime depending on their ability to affect gangs’ competition for the territory and the market. It appears that the effects of raids are sensitive to the context of the criminal situation. Crackdowns are not consistently effective in influencing crime. Evidence shows it is hard to reach levels of critical enforcement through 1-day crackdowns and that crackdowns’ ability to alter drug-market conditions would depend not only on the ability to extract drug dealers from the territory but also in preventing a rapid return.
Effects of Prevalent and Newly Diagnosed Arthritis on Changes in Perceived Physical Demands and Work Stress Among Older Workers: Results of a 3 Year Panel Study
Authors: Mutambudzi Miriam , Henkens Kene
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Examine the effects of prevalent and newly diagnosed arthritis on changes in perceived physical demands and general work stress.

Methods

Conditional change logistic regression models examined the strength of association between arthritis and perceived (1) work stress and (2) physical demands, using data from the NIDI Pension Panel Study ( n = 2099).

Results

Prevalent and newly diagnosed arthritis were associated with increased odds of perceived work stress and high physical demands. Manual workers with newly diagnosed arthritis exhibited a 6.73-fold (95% CI = 2.87–15.77) increased odds of physical demands. Arthritis in three body extremities was differentially associated with increased odds of work stress and physical demands in manual and non-manual workers.

Discussion

Prevalent and incident arthritis were associated with changes in work stress and physical demands in older workers. Policies and workplace interventions to reduce stress and physical demands and improve workability in older workers with arthritis are needed.
The fabrication and neutron shielding property of polyphenylene sulfide containing salicylic acid/Gd2O3 composites
Authors: He Yumin , Li Pengcheng , Ren Haohao , Zhang Xi , Chen Xiulian , Yan Yonggang
Published: September 2021

A series of neutron absorbing materials with good neutron absorbing capacity, high strength and good thermal property were designed and prepared in this work. First of all, polyphenylene sulfide containing different mole content of salicylic acid (SAPPS) in the main chain was synthesized by nucleophilic substitution polymerization under high pressure. Then the composites with different content of nano Gd2O3 and modified PPS were prepared by melt blending method. The testing results indicated that the copolymers SAPPS were synthesized successfully, there was an interface interaction between nano Gd2O3 and the matrix without the need for surfactants or coupling agents. Additionally, the content of nano Gd2O3 had no obvious influence on the thermal property of the composites. While following with the increase of the content of nano Gd2O3, the tensile strength of the composites increased firstly and then decreased, when the content of nano Gd2O3 was 10 wt%, the tensile strength of 10%Gd2O3/5%SAPPS reached the maximum value of 74.9 MPa. The results of neutron shielding testing indicated that the content of nano-particles had a large effect on the neutron shielding rate of composites. The neutron shielding rate of 50%Gd2O3/5%SAPPS composite was up to 83%. All of these results indicated that the Gd2O3/5%SAPPS had potential to be applied to the high-temperature resistance and thermal shielding materials in nuclear and aerospace applications.
Novle layered boron nitride nanosheets/cellulose nanofibers/epoxy composite with high thermal conductivity
Authors: Da Yunsheng , He Jing , Qu Qiqi , Zhu Menghan , Wang Hua , Liu Yanyan
Published: September 2021

Studies have shown that the construction of a three-dimensional interconnected filler network is an effective method to improve the thermal conductivity of the through-plane under a lower filler load. However, huge challenges still exist in building a long-range layered filler network and reducing the thermal resistance resulting from contact between fillers and matrix. In this work, boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs) were proposed to be connected with modified cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) to obtain a long-range layered structure filler skeleton by bidirectional freezing orientation. Then epoxy resin was dipped under vacuum condition to prepare composite with thermal conductivity up to 1.43 W/mK in through-plane when filler content is 4.3 vol%, and the composite had low thermal expansion coefficient of 64.1 ppm/°C and excellent volume resistivity up to 3.7 × 1012 Ω cm at the same time.
Joint decision of condition-based maintenance and production scheduling for multi-component systems
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Gan Jie , Hou Qingyu
Published: September 2021

In this study, system maintenance and production scheduling are jointly decided to solve the problems of resource idleness and time cost increase due to system maintenance in the processing of production scheduling. Based on the previous research on the integration of scheduling and maintenance of single machine and multi machine, considering the deterioration and economic dependence of each component in the system, a joint strategy of multi component condition-based maintenance combined with production scheduling is formulated. All the maintenance combinations and probability calculation formulas in the production scheduling process are developed using the deterioration state space partition method, and the probability density function and its numerical solution method are derived. A joint decision model is established to minimize the total weighted expected completion time. Finally, taking the KS5 adjustable multi axis tapping machine as an example, numerical experiments were conducted to verify the correctness of the proposed strategy and the established model.
Optimization of flexible fixture layout to improve form quality using parametric finite element model and mixed discrete-integer genetic algorithm
Authors: Michael Thomas Rex F , Hariharasakthisudhan P , Andrews A , Prince Abraham B
Published: September 2021

Dimensional and form accuracy of the workpiece can be improved by effective fixture layout design which shows minimum deformation of the workpiece during machining. Flexible fixtures are inevitable in industries owing to high product variety and shortened production time. Hence, an integrated approach is presented to select the optimum position of locating and clamping elements in a flexible fixture that provide good form accuracy. In this approach, a Parametric Finite Element Model (PFEM) is developed using the information about the workpiece, fixture plan and machining condition. PFEM is used to predict the elastic deformation of the workpiece for the fixture layouts generated using a discrete Genetic Algorithm (GA) with mixed integer-discrete variables. The objective is to minimize the maximum deformation of the workpiece by optimizing fixture layouts. The stability of the workpiece and fixture system is ensured by implementing non-negative reaction force constraints in GA. The proposed approach is applied for a prismatic workpiece to carry out pocket milling operation. The significance of this work is to express the flexibility and computational effectiveness of PFEM to accommodate variation in the workpiece, machining condition and fixture plan while designing flexible fixtures. Further, it highlights a significant reduction in search space due to the use of discrete GA and stability constraint as it takes less objective function calculations. An experimental analysis is performed to study the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Therefore, the proposed approach provides a viable solution to the optimization problem in flexible fixtures.
Electroacupuncture inhibits the corneal ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway in a rat model of dry eye syndrome
Authors: Yang Yanting , Zhang Dan , Wu Lijie , Zhang Ji , Wu Danyan , Li Xiying , Zhi Fangyuan , Yang Guang , Kong Xiehe , Hong Jue , Zhao Yue , Liu Jie , Shi Zheng , Ma Xiaopeng
Published: September 2021

Background:

Electroacupuncture (EA) treatment has been found to ameliorate clinical symptoms in patients with dry eye, but its mechanisms are still not entirely clear.

Objective:

To study the regulation of EA on ocular surface function and the corneal reactive oxygen species (ROS)/thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP)/Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammatory signaling pathway in dry eye syndrome (DES) model rats.

Methods:

Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: Normal, Model, Model + EA, Model + NAC (N-actetylcysteine) and Model + NS (normal saline). The DES model was developed by subcutaneous injection of scopolamine hydrobromide with exposure to an air draft in the latter four groups. After intervention, the Schirmer I test (SIT), tear film break-up time (BUT) and ROS content were measured, the histopathological changes of corneal tissues were observed, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of TXNIP, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated Speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC), caspase-1, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 were detected.

Results:

Compared with the Model group, the SIT and BUT increased significantly in the Model + EA group after intervention (p < 0.05), and the corneal injury was improved. Corneal ROS content declined in both Model + EA and Model + NAC groups (p < 0.05), and mRNA expression of TXNIP, NLRP3, ASC and caspase-1 also decreased (p < 0.01). Corneal protein expression of TXNIP, NLRP3, IL-1β and IL-18 decreased significantly in the Model + EA group (p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

Inhibiting the ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling pathway may be the mechanism underlying the role of EA in improving corneal injury in DES model rats.
The Association Between Racism and Suicidality Among Young Minority Groups: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rudes Giorgia , Fantuzzi Claudia
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

The World Health Organization states that suicide is the second leading cause of death among youngs, and racism has been proven to have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. These two plagues represent a public health priority, especially for susceptible minorities.

Method:

This systematic review analyzed 23 studies from multiple database searches, to understand the relationship between racism and suicidality in young minority groups.

Results:

The review demonstrated the correlation between racism and suicidality with the consequent development of mental disorders. There is strong evidence that the main suicide risk factor is acculturation, interpreted as the assimilation of the dominant culture with the loss of values from one’s cultural background.

Discussion:

Health care professionals should not underestimate the risk of suicidality associated with racism. Prevention is crucial and it should be implemented from a young age, in schools, through a joint intervention with children and their families, aiming toward integration without acculturation.
In situ and experimental analysis of longitudinal load on carbody fatigue life using nonlinear damage accumulation
Authors: Sharma Sunil Kumar , Sharma Rakesh Chandmal , Lee Jaesun
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a multi-disciplinary analysis method is proposed for evaluating the fatigue life of railway vehicle car body structure under random dynamic loads. Firstly, the hybrid fatigue analysis method was used with Multi-Body System simulation and finite element method for evaluating the carbody structure dynamic stress histories. The dynamics stress is calculated from the longitudinal load using longitudinal train dynamics. Secondly, the nonlinear damage accumulation model was used in fatigue analysis, and carbody structure fatigue life and fatigue damage were predicted. The mathematical model simulations are compared with results produced experimentally, showing good agreement. Finally, the mode is determined after the finite element model is established. To achieve the dynamic stress at each node, the modal response is used as excitation. The carbody damage was obtained by combining dynamics stress with the NMCCMF damage accumulation model. As a result, the effect of longitudinal load on carbody fatigue damage is investigated. The longitudinal load contributes significantly to the fatigue damage of the carbody.
Safety and Efficacy of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Patients With Moderate to Severe Cirrhosis
Authors: Oldham Mildred , Palkimas Surabhi , Hedrick Amanda
Published: September 2021

Background:

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) remain mostly investigational in patients with moderate to severe hepatic cirrhosis, yet are often selected over traditional anticoagulants including warfarin and enoxaparin in this setting.

Objective:

To determine the safety and efficacy of DOACs in patients with moderate to severe hepatic cirrhosis as compared with traditional anticoagulation.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, single-center cohort study evaluating inpatients and outpatients who were prescribed a DOAC, warfarin, or enoxaparin for therapeutic anticoagulation with Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) B or C status at the time that the prescription was written. Included patients were followed until first bleeding or thromboembolic event, or until discontinuation of anticoagulation therapy. Data were collected by manual chart review. The primary outcomes included both bleeding events and thromboembolic events in the DOAC population as compared with traditional anticoagulation.

Results:

A total of 101 patients were included in the study, 69 treated with DOAC therapy and 32 with traditional anticoagulation. Bleeding events occurred in 36% of patients in the DOAC group and 22% of patients in the traditional group ( P = 0.149). In both groups, bleeds were most commonly gastrointestinal. Thromboembolic events occurred in 4% of the DOAC population and no patients in the traditional population ( P = 0.55). No fatal bleeding or thromboembolic events occurred.

Conclusion and Relevance:

DOACs do not appear to be more harmful than traditional anticoagulation in patients with CTP B or C status. These results support the use of DOACs in patients with CTP B or C hepatic cirrhosis when considering safety, efficacy, and convenience.
Learning Goal Orientation and Academic Performance: A Dynamic model
Authors: Lu Bingjie , Deng Yingxin , Yao Xiang , Li Zhe
Published: September 2021

Drawing on the reciprocal determinism of self-regulation system, a process-based model is used to examine the relationship of learning goal orientation (LGO) among university students with their academic performance, via reciprocal relationships between initial status and change trajectories in academic self-efficacy and feedback-seeking behaviors. A longitudinal study of 316 Chinese university students throughout their first year in college reveals that students who have high LGO in their first month after entering the university generally have higher academic self-efficacy and seek more feedback. Moreover, initial levels of feedback seeking are positively related to academic performance via linear change in academic self-efficacy over time. Limitations of the study and practical implications are discussed.
The β3 Adrenergic Receptor Antagonist L-748,337 Attenuates Dobutamine-Induced Cardiac Inefficiency While Preserving Inotropy in Anesthetized Pigs
Authors: Rødland Lars , Rønning Leif , Kildal Anders Benjamin , How Ole-Jakob
Published: September 2021

Excessive myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2) is considered a limitation for catecholamines, termed oxygen cost of contractility. We hypothesize that increased MVO2 induced by dobutamine is not directly related to contractility but linked to intermediary myocardial metabolism. Furthermore, we hypothesize that selective β3 adrenergic receptor (β3AR) antagonism using L-748,337 prevents this. In an open-chest pig model, using general anesthesia, we assessed cardiac energetics, hemodynamics and arterial metabolic substrate levels at baseline, ½ hour and 6 hours after onset of drug infusion. Cardiac efficiency was assessed by relating MVO2 to left ventricular work (PVA; pressure–volume area). Three groups received dobutamine (5 μg/kg/min), dobutamine + L-748,337 (bolus 50 μg/kg), or saline for time-matched controls. Cardiac efficiency was impaired over time with dobutamine infusion, displayed by persistently increased unloaded MVO2 from ½ hour and 47% increase in the slope of the PVA–MVO2 relation after 6 hours. Contractility increased immediately with dobutamine infusion ( dP/ dt max; 1636 ± 478 vs 2888 ± 818 mmHg/s, P < 0.05) and persisted throughout the protocol (2864 ± 1055 mmHg/s, P < 0.05). Arterial free fatty acid increased gradually (0.22 ± 0.13 vs 0.39 ± 0.30 mM, P < 0.05) with peak levels after 6 hours (1.1 ± 0.4 mM, P < 0.05). By combining dobutamine with L-748,337 the progressive impairment in cardiac efficiency was attenuated. Interestingly, this combined treatment effect occurred despite similar alterations in cardiac inotropy and substrate supply. We conclude that the extent of cardiac inefficiency following adrenergic stimulation is dependent on the duration of drug infusion, and β3AR blockade may attenuate this effect.
Next Steps in Untangling the Web of Violence: A Research Agenda
Authors: Hamby Sherry , Mariscal E. Susana
Published: September 2021

In this commentary, we outline four key trends in violence and trauma research and describe needed research to advance our ability to understand, prevent, and respond these problems. The trends are the move toward evidence-based policy, the recognition of the importance of trauma dosage, the shift to strengths-based approaches, and increased attention to race, gender, and other personality and community characteristics regarding health disparities and culturally appropriate interventions. For each trend, we have identified needed research areas, taking care to identify low-resource and high-resource studies that can help us reduce the burden of trauma.
The ‘medically unexplained symptoms’ syndrome concept and the cognitive-behavioural treatment model
Authors: Scott Michael J , Crawford Joan S , Geraghty Keith J , Marks David F
Published: September 2021

The American Psychiatric Association’s, 2013 DSM-5 abandoned the use of the term ‘medically unexplained symptoms’ for non-neurological disorders. In the UK, treatments for various medical illnesses with unexplained aetiology, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia, continue to fall under an MUS umbrella with cognitive behavioural therapy promoted as a primary therapeutic approach. In this editorial, we comment on whether the MUS concept is a viable diagnostic term, the credibility of the cognitive-behavioural MUS treatment model, the necessity of practitioner training and the validity of evidence of effectiveness in routine practice.
Pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability of single- and multiple-ascending doses of JNJ-64530440, a novel hepatitis B virus capsid assembly modulator, in healthy volunteers
Authors: Kakuda Thomas N , Yogaratnam Jeysen Z , Westland Christopher , Gane Edward J , Schwabe Christian , Vuong Jennifer , Patel Megha , Snoeys Jan , Talloen Willem , Lenz Oliver , Fry John , Chanda Sushmita , van Remoortere Pieter
Published: September 2021

Background

Pharmacokinetics and safety of JNJ-64530440, a hepatitis B virus capsid assembly modulator producing normal empty capsids (CAM-N), in healthy volunteers were evaluated.

Methods

This Phase I study (NCT03439488) was a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study. Adults ( n = 10/cohort, five Asian/five non-Asian), randomised 4:1, received single-ascending doses of oral JNJ-64530440 (first- and second-generation formulations) or placebo under fasted (50, 150, 300 and 900 mg) or fed (300, 750, 1,000, 2000 and 4000 mg) conditions. Multiple-ascending doses of 750 or 2000 mg once daily and 750 mg twice daily JNJ-64530440 (second-generation formulation) for 7 days were evaluated. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated from plasma concentrations. Safety was assessed throughout.

Results

Less than dose-proportional increases in maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration–time curves (AUCs) were observed across the doses. Mean plasma half-lives ranged from 9.3 to 14.5 h. Cmax and AUC were ∼two fold higher under fed versus fasting conditions and slightly higher in Asians versus Caucasians. JNJ-64530440 doses ≥750 mg achieved plasma levels higher than protein-binding adjusted concentrations demonstrating in vitro antiviral activity. No serious adverse events (AEs), treatment discontinuations or dose-limiting toxicities were seen. AE frequency/severity did not increase with dose.

Conclusions

Single (up to 4000 mg) and multiple doses (up to 2000 mg for 7 days) of JNJ-64530440 were well tolerated in healthy volunteers. Multiple doses ≥750 mg/day achieved plasma concentrations expected to have antiviral activity that may lower hepatitis B surface antigen. No clinically relevant differences in tolerability or pharmacokinetic parameters were seen between Asians versus Caucasians.
Parametric study on mechanical properties of basalt leno textile applied as concrete reinforcement
Authors: Zhang Xiaofei , Wang Xin , Peng Zheqi , Zhu Zhongguo , Wu Zhishen
Published: September 2021

In this study, the mechanical properties of the basalt leno textile applied as concrete reinforcement were experimentally investigated considering different parameters including the impregnation materials, geometrical characteristics (the number of yarns, yarn structure, and yarn spacing), and loading rate. The tensile strength, elastic modulus, and failure mode were examined. Furthermore, the force mechanism of impregnated leno textile under tensile load was analyzed. The experimental results showed that the textile with a stiff impregnation material exhibited a higher strength and modulus than that with a flexible material. The leno textile with the straight yarn had a better performance than those with the twisted yarns. Besides, the constraint of the weft yarns is obvious to the textile in the warp direction, while the warp yarn makes no contributions to the bearing capacity of textile in the weft direction. The weft yarn spacing had a significant impact on mechanical properties of the textile in the warp direction. Furthermore, the loading rate of approximately 1.2 mm/min was suggested to determine the maximum force of the impregnated basalt leno textile. A tensile strength model was proposed considering the effects of the impregnation material, consistent deformation, torsion damage, and twisted angle.
Justifying the news: The role of evidence in daily reporting
Authors: Reich Zvi , Barnoy Aviv
Published: September 2021

Reliance on evidence is highly desired in disciplines such as science and law. However, the extent to which daily reporters use it to corroborate or refute sources’ say-so is disputed. To explore how evidence is built into stories in ways that are not entirely obvious from the manifest content, we studied the involvement of evidence in a sample of stories, published by leading print and online Israeli news outlets, using reconstruction interviews with the reporters who authored them. Findings indicate that reliance on evidence is an established news reporting routine found in 42 percent of the items. It is used significantly more often under epistemically-challenging circumstances (conflicts over facts, risky publications and unscheduled events) that attract extra reporting efforts (more sources per item, more verifications and longer reporting hours). To systematize reliance on evidence – as other disciplines strive to – news reporting must move further in their evidentiary genealogy, developing a unified system of guidelines on how all types of evidence should be admitted, evaluated and implemented.
Building research capacity in hospital-based social workers: A participatory action research approach
Authors: Fox Mim , Hopkins Dominque , Graves Jenni
Published: September 2021

Research engagement can support a social work clinician, manager and educator in the complexity of everyday practice however in the hospital setting social workers find themselves challenged by the range of potential research questions and methodologies that do not align with their daily experience, professional values or ways of collaboratively working. Four metropolitan hospitals and a university partner worked together to explore the impact of a collaborative capacity building model on the ability for social workers to engage in research activity. Using a Participatory Action Research framework, the research team identified the elements that contribute to a non-hierarchical and successful research dynamic, as well as the challenges that committing to research activity brings in the clinical role. Through reflecting on and articulating the pracademic, or practitioner-researcher, model used and the dominant values that contribute to social work research this study is transferable to other similarly challenged hospital social work departments and health settings.
Parents at war: A positioning analysis of how parents negotiate their loss after experiencing child removal by the state
Authors: Otterlei Marte Tonning , Engebretsen Eivind
Published: September 2021

This study explores how parents involved in care order processes in Norway perceive being positioned by Child Welfare Services (CWS) in this process, how they negotiate these positions and whether their loss is perceived as legitimate or illegitimate in the face of societal expectations of parenthood. The data consist of qualitative interviews with 13 parents who have experienced child removals initiated by CWS. Drawing on positioning theory, the article provides an analysis of parental experiences of being positioned by CWS and investigates how cultural notions may affect their perceptions. The analysis showed that parents experienced being at war against a highly powerful CWS, which they felt dehumanised them and positioned them as failing. Moreover, parents challenged such positions by introducing alternative explanations that presented themselves as victims. However, the analysis also showed that parents would adopt positions of becoming their own judge and internalising the stigma. Parents experienced disenfranchisement of their grief due to the perception of their loss as illegitimate. Nonetheless, several parents launched a position of becoming a renewed parental figure by turning their prior parental failure into a storyline of growth and prosperity. The article concludes that parents, through language, challenge stigmatising positions to negotiate parental failure, which could be interpreted as valuation work of their identities and parenthood.