bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lung Recruitment Using High-Frequency Oscillation Volume Guarantee in Preterm Infants with Evolving Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Chen Linda Gai Rui , Cheung Po-Yin , Law Brenda Hiu Yan
Published: November 2021

Background: Stepwise lung recruitment maneuvers (LRMs) may be used in ventilated preterm infants. However, its use in high-frequency oscillation with volume guarantee (HFO-VG) is not well studied. Methods: Preterm infants treated with HFO-VG who had LRMs were identified. Patient and respiratory parameters were recorded. Results: Ten infants, median GA 25+6 (IQR 24+2–27+0) weeks, and 21 LRMs were identified. LRMs were performed at a median age of 26 days, with a starting MAP of 16 (14–17) cm H2O and the highest MAP of 23.5 (22.0–24.8) cm H2O. Most (76%) resulted in immediate improved SpO2/FiO2. There were no sustained differences in median oxygen saturation index (8.4 vs. 9, p = 0.09), SpO2/FiO2 (1.8 vs. 1.8, p = 0.8), ∆P (21 vs. 23, p = 0.64), or transcutaneous CO2 (58 vs. 60, p = 0.84) in 24 h before and after LRMs. Conclusions: In preterm infants with evolving bronchopulmonary dysplasia, LRMs on HFO-VG did not result in sustained improvement to oxygenation or ventilation.
KM55 in the Evaluation of IgA-Containing Glomerular Diseases
Authors: Raj Rahul , Sharma Alok , Barwad Adarsh , Bagchi Soumita , Agarwal Sanjay Kumar , Bagga Arvind , Dinda Amit Kumar , Singh Geetika
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Mucosal-derived galactose-deficient IgA is central to the pathogenesis of primary IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Recent reports suggest similar pathogenesis in Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) and secondary IgAN. Its role in other IgA-containing glomerular diseases is still under investigation. It can be detected in glomeruli with the recently described antibody KM55. We aimed to evaluate the role of KM55 by immunostaining a wide spectrum of IgA-containing glomerular diseases. Methods: After standardization and colocalization in a case of IgAN, a spectrum of 60 cases including IgAN, HSP, chronic liver disease (CLD)-related IgAN, other secondary IgAN, IgA-dominant/codominant membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), and lupus nephritis were subjected to immunofluorescence with KM55. KM55 was used to resolve diagnostic dilemma in cases of IgA deposition with confounding histology. Results: The group of primary IgAN (17 cases), HSP (4 cases), and secondary IgAN (19 cases) including CLD showed 2–3+ granular staining with KM55, suggesting mucosal-derived IgA. In contrast, cases of IgA-dominant/codominant MPGN (8 cases) and lupus nephritis (12 cases) were negative for KM55, suggesting systemic derivation of IgA. In cases of IgA deposition with confounding histology such as membranoproliferative or diffuse endocapillary proliferative pattern, KM55 helped to resolve the diagnosis. Discussion/Conclusion: This cross-sectional study concludes that KM55 is useful in the evaluation of IgA-containing glomerular diseases from a pathogenetic perspective and is a practical tool in resolving differential diagnosis in cases with overlapping histopathological features.
Anticoagulation Treatment and Outcomes of Venous Thromboembolism by Weight and Body Mass Index: Insights From the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Perino Alexander C. , Fan Jun , Schmitt Susan , Guo Jennifer D. , Hlavacek Patrick , Din Natasha , Kothari Mitra , Pundi Krishna , Russ Cristina , Emir Birol , Turakhia Mintu P.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Consensus statements have recommended against the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in venous thromboembolism (VTE) for patients ≥120 kg and ≥40 kg/m
2
. We sought to determine use and outcomes of DOACs for VTE across weight and body mass index (BMI).

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with first-time VTE 2013 to 2018 that were treated with DOAC or warfarin in the Veterans Health Administration. The Veterans Health Administration has implemented system-wide guidance for patient selection and shared decision-making for use of DOACs in VTE at extremes of weight. We stratified patients by weight and BMI and assessed (1) association of weight and BMI category to outcomes in those prescribed DOAC; and (2) association of DOAC, as compared to warfarin, to outcomes by weight and BMI categories. Outcomes of interest included major bleeding, clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding, and recurrent VTE.

Results:

The analysis cohort included 51 871 patients prescribed DOAC or warfarin within 30 days of index VTE diagnosis (age 64.5±13.1 years; 6.0% female; median weight 93.4 kg [25th–75th: 80.5–108.6 kg]). For patients ≥120 kg (N=6934 patients), 38.4% were treated with DOAC, as compared to 45.4% of those ≥60 to <100 kg (N=30 645;
P
<0.0001). DOAC prescription was not associated with major bleeds, clinically relevant nonmajor bleeds, or recurrent VTE for those in higher weight and BMI categories as compared to those in average weight and BMI categories. DOAC prescription, as compared to warfarin, was not associated with increased recurrent VTE in any weight or BMI category.

Conclusions:

Patients ≥120 kg and ≥40 kg/m
2
with VTE are frequently prescribed DOAC by the Veterans Health Administration, without an increase in bleeding or recurrent VTE. These findings suggest DOACs can be safe and effective in this population and may argue for broader adoption of pharmacy policies that promote careful patient selection and shared decision making.
Impact of Stratification Mechanisms on Turbulent Characteristics of Stable Open-Channel Flows
Authors: Xiao Cheng-Nian , Senocak Inanc
Published: November 2021

Flow over a surface can be stratified by imposing a fixed mean vertical temperature (density) gradient profile throughout or via cooling at the surface. These distinct mechanisms can act simultaneously to establish a stable stratification in a flow. Here, we perform a series of direct numerical simulations of open-channel flows to study adaptation of a neutrally stratified turbulent flow under the combined or independent action of the aforementioned mechanisms. We force the fully developed flow with a constant mass flow rate. This flow forcing technique enables us to keep the bulk Reynolds number constant throughout our investigation and avoid complications arising from the acceleration of the bulk flow if a constant pressure gradient approach were to be adopted to force the flow instead. When both stratification mechanisms are active, the dimensionless stratification perturbation number emerges as an external flow control parameter, in addition to the Reynolds, Froude, and Prandtl numbers. We demonstrate that significant deviations from the Monin–Obukhov similarity formulation are possible when both types of stratification mechanisms are active within an otherwise weakly stable flow, even when the flux Richardson number is well below 0.2. An extended version of the similarity theory due to Zilitinkevich and Calanca shows promise in predicting the dimensionless shear for cases where both types of stratification mechanisms are active, but the extended theory is less accurate for gradients of scalar. The degree of deviation from neutral dimensionless shear as a function of the vertical coordinate emerges as a qualitative measure of the strength of stable stratification for all the cases investigated in this study.
Mesoscale Predictability in Moist Midlatitude Cyclones Is Not Sensitive to the Slope of the Background Kinetic Energy Spectrum
Authors: Lloveras Daniel J. , Tierney Lydia H. , Durran Dale R.
Published: November 2021

We investigate the sensitivity of mesoscale atmospheric predictability to the slope of the background kinetic energy spectrum E by adding initial errors to simulations of idealized moist midlatitude cyclones at several wavenumbers k for which the slope of E(k) is significantly different. These different slopes arise from 1) differences in the E(k) generated by cyclones growing in two different moist baroclinically unstable environments, and 2) differences in the horizontal scale at which initial perturbations are added, with E(k) having steeper slopes at larger scales. When small-amplitude potential temperature perturbations are added, the error growth through the subsequent 36-h simulation is not sensitive to the slope of E(k) nor to the horizontal scale of the initial error. In all cases with small-amplitude perturbations, the error growth in physical space is dominated by moist convection along frontal boundaries. As such, the error field is localized in physical space and broad in wavenumber (spectral) space. In moist midlatitude cyclones, these broadly distributed errors in wavenumber space limit mesoscale predictability by growing up-amplitude rather than by cascading upscale to progressively longer wavelengths. In contrast, the error distribution in homogeneous turbulence is broad in physical space and localized in wavenumber space, and dimensional analysis can be used to estimate the error growth rate at a specific wavenumber k from E(k). Predictability estimates derived in this manner, and from the numerical solutions of idealized models of homogeneous turbulence, depend on whether the slope of E(k) is shallower or steeper than k−3, which differs from the slope-insensitive behavior exhibited by moist midlatitude cyclones.
Strategic Dynamics of Crisis Stability in South Asia
Authors: Ali Iftikhar , Sidhu Jatswan S.
Published: November 2021

In contrast to the pervasive confidence that the development of nuclear weapons ensures peace and stability by making wars too expensive to fight for, South Asian strategic stability has drifted into nasty security competition through arms race with an episodical crisis that continues at the sub-conventional level. Deterrence studies that were relegated to the bins of history soon after the end of the Cold War received a renewed interest of scholars on the subject since the demonstration of deterrent capabilities by South Asian rivals in 1998. A new wave of deterrence studies has developed in the current multipolar world with some scholars adopting Cold War models of analysis in the contemporary realms of South Asia, whereas other are attempting new analytical approaches. This article aims to offer a fresh look at how to provide a clear concept of strategic stability, how strategic stability is applicable in contemporary South Asia and what the recent crisis between India and Pakistan being interwoven with terrorism tells us about crisis stability between the two countries under the shadows of nuclear weapons.
Money-Back Guarantees and Service Quality: The Marketing of In Vitro Fertilization Services
Authors: Yu Shan , Ghosh Mrinal , Viswanathan Madhu
Published: November 2021

Marketing practices like money-back guarantees (MBGs) are prevalent in many expert-service markets but are often decried as marketing gimmicks that take advantage of vulnerable and poorly informed consumers. In this research, conducted in the market for in vitro fertilization services, the authors empirically assess differences in quality of care between clinics that offer MBG programs and those that don't, to investigate whether MBG programs can serve a purpose consistent with signaling and insurance theories. The analysis is conducted on a unique longitudinal data set that includes information on clinic-level treatment, outcome statistics, clinic characteristics, and marketing practices for fertility clinics in the United States, state-level insurance mandates, competition environments, and demographic and geographic characteristics. Using an instrumental variable approach to account for the endogeneity of MBG decisions made by fertility clinics, the authors find that MBG clinics, on average, offer better treatment outcomes in terms of success rates while undertaking lower risks. The results are consistent with signaling theory predictions that market-based programs like MBGs can serve as signals of unobservable clinic quality despite the incentives for clinics to engage in opportunistic behaviors.
Development and Application of Individual and National Opportunity to the Experience of Intimate Partner Violence among Married Women in the Global South
Authors: Hayes Brittany E.
Published: November 2021

Objectives: Building on the ecological model, multicontextual opportunity theory, and southern criminology, the study developed individual- and country-level indicators of opportunity to understand the experience of intimate partner violence (IPV) among married women in the Global South. Opportunity-related indicators considered the impact of globalization and variability across nations categorized as part of the Global South. Methods: Relying on data from the Demographic and Health Surveys and open-source country indicators, mixed effects logistic regression examined opportunity-related indicators on a sample of married women ( N  =  239,554) from the Global South ( N  =  41). Results: Exposure to motivated offenders was associated with higher odds of IPV. Individual-level vulnerability was associated with higher odds of IPV. Isolation and interviews that were interrupted, indicators of guardianship, were associated with higher odds of IPV while the number of people in the household was associated with lower odds. More Parliamentary seats held by women was associated with higher odds of IPV. Nine cross-level interactions were significant. Conclusions: National-level factors moderated the influence of individual-level opportunity, reinforcing the Global South is not monolithic. The traveling of IPV programing from the Global North to the Global South is likely ineffective. Programs must consider how context shapes individual experiences.
The early teacher pipeline: What data do — and don’t — tell us
Authors: Goldhaber Dan , Holden Kristian L.
Published: November 2021

Understanding the early teacher pipeline, how many and what types of individuals are pursuing a teaching credential, is critically important. Unfortunately, as Dan Goldhaber and Kris Holden explain, the two national data collections that can be used to explore these areas provide incomplete and sometimes contrasting pictures about the number of people preparing for a teaching career. They describe how data collection could be improved to address this problem and provide a clearer national picture of who is preparing to be tomorrow’s teachers.
A pathway to teaching for paraprofessionals of color
Authors: Delgado Laura , Baese Kristin , Hauptman Ally
Published: November 2021

Research has shown that students of color benefit from having teachers who share their racial background. The paraprofessionals and education assistants currently working in schools represent one potential source of such teachers. Many of them are committed to schools and students but need support to obtain a teaching license. Laura Delgado, Kristin Baese, and Ally Hauptman describe a program for helping these paraprofessionals become full-time lead teachers by taking graduate courses while continuing to work as assistants and receiving mentoring support as they move through the licensure process.
On leadership: Becoming Obi-Wan
Authors: Starr Joshua P.
Published: November 2021

Drawing on the model of Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars, Josh Starr considers how school leaders who are no longer in their early career can continue to lead in way that will prepare the Luke Skywalkers who are coming behind them. Obi-Wan shows that there’s value in stepping away from the action to become a voice in the head of those on the front line, that it’s important to recognize that others may be better mentors, and that a time will come when others must take the lead.
Washington view: How have special education students fared during the pandemic?
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: November 2021

Maria Ferguson talks with Lindsay E. Jones, president and CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on students with disabilities. So far, there has been little research into the effects of the pandemic, but previous research shows that being away from school has more of an effect on students with learning disabilities. They also discuss how states are planning to use the funds made available under the American Recovery Plan and the challenge of balancing the need for flexibility to distribute funds quickly with the need to ensure that students’ needs are being met.
Using Surveillance With Near–Real-Time Alerts During a Cluster of Overdoses From Fentanyl-Contaminated Crack Cocaine, Connecticut, June 2019
Authors: Canning Peter , Doyon Suzanne , Ali Sarah , Logan Susan B. , Alter Aliese , Hart Katherine , Coler Raffaella , Kamin Richard , Wolf Steven C. , Soto Kristin , Whiteman Lauren , Jenkins Mark
Published: November 2021

In 2019, Connecticut launched an opioid overdose–monitoring program to provide rapid intervention and limit opioid overdose–related harms. The Connecticut Statewide Opioid Response Directive (SWORD)—a collaboration among the Connecticut State Department of Public Health, Connecticut Poison Control Center (CPCC), emergency medical services (EMS), New England High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), and local harm reduction groups—required EMS providers to call in all suspected opioid overdoses to the CPCC. A centralized data collection system and the HIDTA overdose mapping tool were used to identify outbreaks and direct interventions. We describe the successful identification of a cluster of fentanyl-contaminated crack cocaine overdoses leading to a rapid public health response. On June 1, 2019, paramedics called in to the CPCC 2 people with suspected opioid overdose who reported exclusive use of crack cocaine after being resuscitated with naloxone. When CPCC specialists in poison information followed up on the patients’ status with the emergency department, they learned of 2 similar cases, raising suspicion that a batch of crack cocaine was mixed with an opioid, possibly fentanyl. The overdose mapping tool pinpointed the overdose nexus to a neighborhood in Hartford, Connecticut; the CPCC supervisor alerted the Connecticut State Department of Public Health, which in turn notified local health departments, public safety officials, and harm reduction groups. Harm reduction groups distributed fentanyl test strips and naloxone to crack cocaine users and warned them of the dangers of using alone. The outbreak lasted 5 days and tallied at least 22 overdoses, including 6 deaths. SWORD’s near–real-time EMS reporting combined with the overdose mapping tool enabled rapid recognition of this overdose cluster, and the public health response likely prevented additional overdoses and loss of life.
An Emergency Preparedness Response to Opioid-Prescribing Enforcement Actions in Maryland, 2018-2019
Authors: Acharya Jessica C. , Lyons B. Casey , Murthy Vijay , Stanley Jennifer , Babcock Carly , Jackson Kate , Adams Sherry
Published: November 2021

Federal and state enforcement authorities have increasingly intervened on the criminal overprescribing of opioids. However, little is known about the health effects these enforcement actions have on patients experiencing disrupted access to prescription opioids or medication-assisted treatment/medication for opioid use disorder. Simultaneously, opioid death rates have increased. In response, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) has worked to coordinate mitigation strategies with enforcement partners (defined as any federal, state, or local enforcement authority or other governmental investigative authority). One strategy is a standardized protocol to implement emergency response functions, including rapidly identifying health hazards with real-time data access, deploying resources locally, and providing credible messages to partners and the public. From January 2018 through October 2019, MDH used the protocol in response to 12 enforcement actions targeting 34 medical professionals. A total of 9624 patients received Schedule II-V controlled substance prescriptions from affected prescribers under investigation in the 6 months before the respective enforcement action; 9270 (96%) patients were residents of Maryland. Preliminary data indicate fatal overdose events and potential loss of follow-up care among the patient population experiencing disrupted health care as a result of an enforcement action. The success of the strategy hinged on endorsement by leadership; the establishment of federal, state, and local roles and responsibilities; and data sharing. MDH’s approach, data sources, and lessons learned may support health departments across the country that are interested in conducting similar activities on the front lines of the opioid crisis.
Trends in Precancerous Cervical Lesions by Area-Based Measures of Poverty, Race, and Ethnicity, Connecticut, 2008-2018
Authors: Brackney Monica M. , Weinberger Daniel M. , Higgins Kyle , Meek James , Niccolai Linda M.
Published: November 2021

Objectives

Trends in the incidence of precancerous cervical lesions can be monitored to evaluate the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. The objective of this analysis was to determine whether declines in precancerous cervical lesions varied by area-based measures of poverty, race, and ethnicity.

Methods

We analyzed 11 years of incidence data (2008-2018) from a statewide active surveillance system of precancerous cervical lesions in Connecticut. We divided area-based measures of poverty, race, and ethnicity (percentage of the population in a census tract who were living below the federal poverty level, who were Black, and who were Hispanic) at the census-tract level into 4 groups (<5.0%, 5.0%-9.9%, 10.0%-19.9%, ≥20.0%) using recommended cut points from the Public Health Disparities Geocoding Project. We estimated incidence rates and average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) stratified by age and each area-based measure using Joinpoint regression software. We used total population and estimated screened population as denominators for each age group to calculate rates and AAPCs.

Results

During 2008-2018 in Connecticut, 18 878 women aged 21-39 were diagnosed with precancerous cervical lesions. After adjusting for screening, the largest declines occurred among women aged 21-24 (AAPC = −11.5%; 95% CI, −13.6% to −9.4%). We found significant and similar annual declines (~10%-12%) in this age group across all 4 levels of poverty, race, and ethnicity.

Conclusions

This analysis adds to the growing body of evidence demonstrating the positive impact of population-level HPV vaccination among young women that appears similar across area-based measures of sociodemographic characteristics. Monitoring is necessary to ensure the continuation of this progress in all communities.
Correlation of yarn feeding to the dimensional and elastic parameters of tubular knitted fabric
Authors: Yuan Yanhong , Zhong Jie , Ru Xin , Liu Bing
Published: November 2021

The yarn feeding for a loop formation is a critical factor in determining the size and elasticity of highly elastic knitted fabrics. Currently, the prevalent production processes rely on experienced machine operators to set up the optimal feed rate by trial and error. To improve production efficiency and reduce the reliance on the operator’s skill, we attempt to create a structure model of tubular knitted fabric that could correlate the size as well as elasticity of fabric with the loop geometry parameters (wale spacing, course spacing) of the yarn feeding. The experimental tensile test of the elastic fabric verified that the model is able to deduce the yarn feeding parameters from the elasticity and dimensional requirements of the fabric to be knitted. It is also illustrated that the yarn feeding is a key factor in controlling the elasticity of knitted fabrics.
COVID-19-Induced Redundancy and Socio-Psychological Well-Being of Tourism Employees: Implications for Organizational Recovery in a Resource-Scarce Context
Authors: Kimbu Albert N. , Adam Issahaku , Dayour Frederick , de Jong Anna
Published: November 2021

Drawing on social and psychological well-being literature underpinned by the concept of resilience, this study examines the impact of COVID-19 induced redundancy on the socio-psychological well-being of redundant employees (laid-off or working reduced hours), and its effect on their commitment to work and support recovery in the tourism industry. Utilizing a quantitative-dominant mixed methods design, 457 questionnaires were administered, and 15 interviews conducted with redundant employees in Ghana between May and August 2020. Results from a binary logistic regression analysis of the survey data supported by qualitative interview analysis indicate that marital status, education, status of dependents, and the types of tourism businesses employed in, significantly influenced psychological well-being while marital status, age, education, and rank in the organization influenced the social well-being of respondents. Meanwhile, psychological well-being significantly influenced future work commitment in the industry. Managerial implications for supporting employee resilience, well-being, and future recovery strategies are critically examined.
Youth doing politics in times of increasing inequalities
Authors: Grasso Maria , Giugni Marco
Published: November 2021

Particularly in the current context of rapid political change, it is crucial to understand the political participation of young people and what underpins their political engagement patterns as well the as the inequalities that may lie beneath them. While there is a rich literature on youth participation, to date we have lacked the data to carry out detailed subgroup analyses to understand differences in the political participation between different groups of youth cross-nationally. The papers in this Special Issue all examine different aspects of youth participation in the current context. They examine key questions for participation including the inequalities, socialising influences, polarisation, online participation, radical political views, tolerance, life engagement and opportunities for social inclusion. This Special Issue thus provides a contemporary analysis of youth participation in Europe in the current historical juncture.
Does it matter whether we or I talk about us? Distinguishing we-talk in couples’ conflict discussions and partners’ private thoughts before and after conflict
Authors: Wilson Stephanie J. , Jaremka Lisa M. , Fagundes Christopher P. , Andridge Rebecca , Kiecolt-Glaser Janice K.
Published: November 2021

According to extensive evidence, we-talk—couples’ use of first-person, plural pronouns—predicts better relationship quality and well-being. However, prior work has not distinguished we-talk by its context, which varies widely across studies. Also, little is known about we-talk’s consistency over time. To assess the stability and correlates of we-talk in private versus conversational contexts, 43 married couples’ language was captured during a marital problem discussion and in each partner’s privately recorded thoughts before and after conflict. Participants were asked to describe any current thoughts and feelings in the baseline thought-listing and to focus on their reaction to the conflict itself in the post-conflict sample. Couples repeated this protocol at a second study visit, approximately 1 month later. We-talk in baseline and post-conflict thought-listings was largely uncorrelated with we-talk during conflict discussions, but each form of we-talk was consistent between the two study visits. Their correlates were also distinct: more we-talk during conflict was associated with less hostility during conflict, whereas more baseline we-talk predicted greater closeness in both partners, as well as lower vocally encoded arousal and more positive emotion word use in partners after conflict. These novel data reveal that we-talk can be meaningfully distinguished by its context—whether language is sampled from private thoughts or marital discussions, and whether the study procedure requests relationship talk. Taken together, these variants of we-talk may have unique implications for relationship function and well-being.
How a pediatric neuro-oncology unit was managed in Madrid during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Vila Rocio , Vázquez-Gómez Felisa , Fioravantti Victoria , García-Fernandez Miriam , Lassaletta Alvaro
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

During the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, infection prevention measures were enforced at our Pediatric Neuro-Oncology unit.

Methods:

A retrospective study analyzing patients booked in this unit during lockdown was performed to describe its performance.

Results:

There were 438 consultations for 123 patients (320 on-site/118 telephone). Eight new diagnoses were made, with one significant delay. Only one patient tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Delay in imaging testing occurred in 15 patients. Chemotherapy was delayed in one case. There were no delays in radiotherapy.

Conclusions:

Measures implemented were effective in minimizing the risk of COVID-19 infection, achieving continuity in diagnoses and treatment, and avoiding delays that could impact survival.
Rebecca West on communism’s allure for the intellectuals: An appraisal
Authors: Baehr Peter
Published: November 2021

Feminist activist, novelist, literary critic, bio-ethnographer, legal autodidact, and political writer: Rebecca West (1892–1983) was a 20th-century phenomenon. She was also a lifelong critic of communism’s appeal to the intelligentsia. Communism, West claimed, was attractive to three groups of intellectuals outside the Soviet bloc: a minority of scientists who viewed politics as merely a sum of technical problems to solve; the emotionally devastated for whom communism was a means of mental reorientation; and a déclassé segment of the middle class who envisaged communism as a means of material and status advancement. I examine West’s three explanations for communism’s allure, and then proceed to evaluate her account. My assessment is both empirical, using sociological data on American and European communist parties, and methodological, examining the techniques of West’s style, a mix of novelistic empathy and unmasking political partisanship. This mixture I consider fatal because while the novel, like historical interpretation, allows a generous understanding of human agents, unmasking tends towards caricature and denunciation.
Nitecap: An Exploratory Circadian Analysis Web Application
Authors: Brooks Thomas G. , Mrčela Antonijo , Lahens Nicholas F. , Paschos Georgios K. , Grosser Tilo , Skarke Carsten , FitzGerald Garret A. , Grant Gregory R.
Published: November 2021

Circadian omics analyses present investigators with large amounts of data to consider and many choices for methods of analysis. Visualization is crucial as rhythmicity can take many forms and p-values offer an incomplete picture. Yet statically viewing the entirety of high-throughput datasets is impractical, and there is often limited ability to assess the impact of choices, such as significance threshold cutoffs. Nitecap provides an intuitive and unified web-based solution to these problems. Through highly responsive visualizations, Nitecap enables investigators to see dataset-wide behavior. It supports deep analyses, including comparisons of two conditions. Moreover, it focuses upon ease-of-use and enables collaboration through dataset sharing. As an application, we investigated cross talk between peripheral clocks in adipose and liver tissues and determined that adipocyte clock disruption does not substantially modulate the transcriptional rhythmicity of liver but does advance the phase of core clock gene Bmal1 (Arntl) expression in the liver. Nitecap is available at nitecap.org and is free-to-use.
Customer Abuse and Aggression as Labour Control Among LGBT Workers in Low-Wage Services
Authors: Mills Suzanne , Owens Benjamin
Published: November 2021

This study examines the relation between customer abuse and aggression, the gender and sexual expression of workers, and labour control in low-wage services. In-depth interviews with 30 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)1 low-wage service sector workers reveal how customer abuse and aggression works in consort with management strategies to reproduce cis- and heteronormativity. Customer abuse and aggression disciplined worker expressions of non-normative gender and sexual identities, leading to concealment and self-policing. Management was complicit in this dynamic, placing profitability and customer satisfaction over the safety of LGBT workers, only intervening in instances of customer abuse and aggression when it had a limited economic impact. It is posited that customer abuse and aggression is not only a response to unmet expectations emanating from the labour process but is also a mechanism of labour control that disciplines worker behaviour and aesthetics, directly and indirectly, by influencing management prerogatives.
Numerical investigation on separated turbulent flow in a three-dimensional U-turn duct with spanwise diverging
Authors: Zhang Zheying , Zhang Wei , Zhu Zuchao
Published: November 2021

The flow in a U-turn duct with a 180-degree curved section is a typical model of various applications such as the bend and return channel in multi-stage radial turbo-machines. The flow exhibits complex patterns including the separation on the inner wall, highly sheared flow in the curved and downstream sections, and recovery of deficit flow to uniform flow. Most of current researches focus on the simplified models of two-dimensional plane duct or three-dimensional duct with constant cross-section, while in realistic circumstances the duct can be varying in the shape and area of the cross-section to meet the design requirement. In this work, we performed a numerical investigation on the turbulent flow in a U-turn duct with spanwise diverging at Reynolds number Re = 106. The effect of diverging, as represented by the height of the duct, on the formation of secondary flow, flow separation and recovery is explored, and the three-dimensionality of the separated flow is quantitatively assessed. Numerical results reveal that with stronger spanwise diverging, the flow separates earlier from the inner wall and the size of the separated vortex is larger; the primary characteristics of the secondary flow also change significantly. The three-dimensional separated flow substantially affects the flow in the downstream straight duct that both streamwise and radial velocities exhibit fluctuating patterns as a result of the spatially non-uniform separation. The characteristics of boundary layer flow on all solid walls are also analyzed and discussed regarding the pressure field and local shearing.
Adaptive torsional vibration active control for hybrid electric powertrains during start-up based on model prediction
Authors: Chen Xing , Peng Dan , Hu Jibin , Li Cheng , Zheng Shuili , Zhang Wenhai
Published: November 2021

Torsional vibration occurs when the hybrid vehicle transmission system is influenced by the multiple excitations and the dynamic loads caused by mode switching. Torsional vibrations of transmission system directly affect the stability, reliability, and safety of vehicles. In order to suppress the torsional vibration, this paper studied the active vibration control algorithm for the hybrid powertrains under rapid acceleration. Primarily, the architecture and the dynamic modeling of the drive system of the hybrid vehicle was built. Moreover, the hybrid control system including engine controller, motor controller and transmission controller was proposed. Furthermore, an adaptive active control controller was constructed to solve the torsional vibration problem. And model prediction control (MPC) and Butterworth filter control were combined into the controller. Finally, the efficacy of this active method for vibration reduction under start-up conditions was simulated. The simulation results showed that the torsional vibration of the transmission system was reduced by 96%–99% with external interference and the system stabilization time was advanced by 93% without external interference. The adaptive control algorithm suggested in this paper effectively suppressed the torsional vibration of hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) when accelerating in pure electric mode, without affecting vehicles’ dynamic performance.
Clinical presentation of herpes simplex virus infection mimicking neoplasia on the face of persons living with HIV
Authors: Edwards Robert Jeffrey , Dolly Naomi , Musa David , Edwards Jonathan , Boyce Gregory
Published: November 2021

The clinical presentations of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are varied and range from asymptomatic to a prodrome of tingling and burning followed by painful vesicles, erosions and ulcers. Resolution leads to latent infection of the sensory ganglia. HSV-1 is associated with most of the nongenital HSV–induced infections and HSV-2 is generally associated with anogenital lesions; however, lesions at either site may be caused by both viruses. In persons living with HIV (PLHIV), the lesions have been described as verrucous/hypertrophic, exophytic or vegetative and may suggest a neoplastic rather than an infective process and this can be a diagnostic dilemma in resource-limited countries with no access to confirmatory diagnostic testing for HSV. We report on two PLHIV who developed rapidly growing lesions on the face that clinically mimicked neoplasia but were found to be HSV-associated squamous proliferative lesions which responded to high dose acyclovir.
Investigating the effect of noise exposure on mental disorders and the work ability index among industrial workers
Authors: Monazzam Esmaielpour Mohammad R , Zakerian Seyed A , Abbasi Milad , Ábbasi Balochkhaneh Faezeh , Mousavi Kordmiri Seyed Hojat
Published: November 2021

Noise as one of the most common hazardous physical agents in the work environment causes physical and psychological problems in occupied workers. This study aims to investigate the relationship of demographic variables and noise exposure with mental disorder and work ability index in automotive industry workers. This study aims to investigate the effect of noise exposure on mental disorder and work ability index among industry workers. In this descriptive-analytic study, 325 individuals working in auto parts supplier industry who were exposed to different level of noises were investigated. Personnel’s daily exposure to noise for each group was measured based on ISO-9612 standards using calibrated sound level meter model SVANTEK-971. Workers’ mental disorder and work ability index were determined using Kessler Psychological Distress Scale questionnaire and shortened form of work ability index, respectively. Then, collected data were analyzed using SPSS-22. The mean and standard deviation of mental disorder and work ability index for all employees was 23.46 ± 3.45 and 37.43 ± 6.14, respectively. The results of one-way ANOVA and linear regression analysis showed that there is a significant association between noise exposure with mental disorder and work ability index in term of age groups, working groups, and work experience ( p-value < .05). Regardless the effect of other variables, it can be stated that for each dB increase in noise exposure cause mental disorder increase by 0.32 and work ability index decrease by 0.157. And among the demographic variables, age was the most influential parameter on mental health and work ability index. According to the results of this study, noise exposure could lead to increased psychological distress and decreased work ability index in workers. The ability to work directly and indirectly through mental disorders can be affected by exposure to industrial noise. Considering severe exposure to noise in some units and the negative impact of noise exposure on mental health and work ability index, it is necessary to improve of controlling and protective measures against noise.
Measuring Internet Gaming Disorder and Gaming Disorder: A Qualitative Content Validity Analysis of Validated Scales
Authors: Karhulahti Veli-Matti , Martončik Marcel , Adamkovič Matúš
Published: November 2021

Numerous instruments have been developed to measure gaming-related health problems based on “internet gaming disorder” (IGD) in the third section of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) and “gaming disorder” (GD) in the International Classification of Diseases (11th rev.). However, the criteria in the manuals tend to be operationalized in numerous diverse ways, which can make screening outcomes incomparable. A content validity analysis is needed to reassess the relationships between the diagnostic criteria and the items that operationalize them. The IGD and GD criteria were divided into sematic components. A qualitative content validity analysis was carried out for all items employed by the 17 instruments that claim to measure either construct by their criteria in English. In all but one instrument, the operationalizations did not include all criterion components. There were two main reasons found for this: the components had simply been left out or had been alternatively modified into other components. Criteria that were vaguely described in the manuals were sources of lower content validity items. The study implies that many of the problems in IGD and GD measurement derive from criteria operationalization and original manual descriptions. The conclusion provides practical recommendations that researchers can apply to improve the content validity of their measurement.
Anticoagulation Control, Outcomes, and Associated Factors in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Receiving Warfarin at Tertiary Care Hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Yimer Nuredin Shiferaw , Abiye Alfoalem Araba , Hussen Shemsu Umer , Tadesse Tamrat Assefa
Published: November 2021

Anticoagulation is the cornerstone in the prevention of stroke in atrial fibrillation. This study aimed at assessing the anticoagulation control and outcome and predictive factors in atrial fibrillation patients on warfarin therapy. A retrospective chart review was used to evaluate patients with atrial fibrillation who were on warfarin during two years follow up at the anticoagulation clinic of the hospital. The time in therapeutic range (TTR) was calculated using Rosendaal's method. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25. Univariable and multivariable analyses were computed to determine factors affecting TTR and bleeding events. We included 300 patients in this study. The mean percentage TTR was 42.03 ± 18.75. Only 38 (12.67%) patients achieved a TTR of above 65%. The average international normalized ratio (INR) testing frequency was 35 days (16.3-67.2 days). Taking 1 or 2 drugs along with warfarin was found to be better in achieving good TTR as compared to taking more than two drugs ( p = .014). Having heart failure was associated with a 2.45 times odds of poor anticoagulation control (TTR< 65%) ( p = .047). Male study participants were 2.53 times more likely of developing bleeding events than females ( p = .009). Bleeding events were observed in 62 (20.67%) patients. Study participants, who didn't have Diabetic Mellitus and those not receiving aspirin were at lower odds developing bleeding events (AOR = .196; C.I. = .060-.638; p−.007 and AOR = .099; CI. = .024-.416; p−.02), respectively. In summary, the time spent in the therapeutic range was minimal in this population of patients with AF on warfarin managed at a hospital run anticoagulation clinic in Ethiopia. Moreover, the number of co-prescribed medications, and having heart failure were associated with poor TTR. Bleeding events were high and affected by male sex, having DM comorbidity, and using aspirin.
Physiological changes in green and red cherry tomatoes after photocatalytic ethylene degradation using continuous air flux
Authors: Alves Maria Jaízia dos Santos , Nobias Marielle Correia , Soares Lenilton Santos , Coelho Daniela Sousa , Maraschin Marcelo , Basso Alex , Moreira Regina de Fátima Peralta Muniz , José Humberto Jorge , Monteiro Alcilene Rodrigues
Published: November 2021

In this work photocatalytic ethylene degradation (TiO2-UV) was applied in green cherry tomatoes with the aim to control biochemical and physiological changes during ripening. Photocatalytic process was performed at 18 °C  ±  2 °C and 85% HR for 10 days using continuous air flux. Ethylene, O2 and CO2 concentration from cherry tomatoes under TiO2-UV and control (c) fruits, were measured by GC-MS for 10 days. After that, the tomatoes were stored for 20 days. During the photocatalysis process, ethylene was completely degraded and control fruits, the ethylene was 28.73 nL/g. Respiration rate was lower for fruits under TiO2-UV than control. During storage period, cherry tomatoes treated by TiO2-UV, showed lower ethylene concentration, respiration rate, total soluble solid, lycopene, sugar and organic acid content than control showing that the fruits treated with photocatalysis did not reach the full maturity. In addition, all the cherry tomatoes showed different maturity stages. Fungal incidence was higher in control fruits than fruits treated with photocatalysis. This research showed for the first time that photocatalytic technology preserved the physiological quality of cherry tomatoes for 30 days of storage, being a promised technology to preserve cherries tomatoes.
Associations of Irritability With Functional Connectivity of Amygdala and Nucleus Accumbens in Adolescents and Young Adults With ADHD
Authors: Mukherjee Prerona , Vilgis Veronika , Rhoads Shawn , Chahal Rajpreet , Fassbender Catherine , Leibenluft Ellen , Dixon J. Faye , Pakyurek Murat , van den Bos Wouter , Hinshaw Stephen P. , Guyer Amanda E. , Schweitzer Julie B.
Published: November 2021

Objective

Irritability is a common characteristic in ADHD. We examined whether dysfunction in neural connections supporting threat and reward processing was related to irritability in adolescents and young adults with ADHD.

Method

We used resting-state fMRI to assess connectivity of amygdala and nucleus accumbens seeds in those with ADHD ( n = 34) and an age- and gender-matched typically-developing comparison group ( n = 34).

Results

In those with ADHD, irritability was associated with atypical functional connectivity of both seed regions. Amygdala seeds showed greater connectivity with right inferior frontal gyrus and caudate/putamen, and less connectivity with precuneus. Nucleus accumbens seeds showed altered connectivity with middle temporal gyrus and precuneus.

Conclusion

The irritability-ADHD presentation is associated with atypical functional connectivity of reward and threat processing regions with cognitive control and emotion processing regions. These patterns provide novel evidence for irritability-associated neural underpinnings in adolescents and young adults with ADHD. The findings suggest cognitive and behavioral treatments that address response to reward, including omission of an expected reward and irritability, may be beneficial for ADHD.