bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Obesity in End of Life Care in Patients With End Stage Liver Disease: An Observational Study
Authors: Subramoney Kavitha , Orman Eric , Johnson Amy W. , Kara Areeba
Published: December 2020

Background:

Both obesity and end stage liver disease (ESLD) are increasing. Obesity’s impact on hospice and palliative care in patients with ESLD is unknown.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated patients admitted to an academic, Midwestern, tertiary center between January 2016 and May 2019 with a diagnosis of ESLD. Body Mass Index and MELD Na were calculated for each patient’s first admission during the study period. Patients with MELD Na scores ≥ 21 or 18-20 with additional criteria were considered potentially eligible for hospice and palliative care referrals.

Results:

Of 3863 patients admitted with ESLD, 1556 (40%) were potentially eligible for hospice and palliative care referrals. Of these, 703 (45%) were obese. Comorbidity burden was higher in obese patients (15.6% of obese patients had a Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥ 5, while 5% of non-obese patients had a comorbidity index of ≥ 5 (p < 0.001). Referral rates to hospice and palliative services in obese patients were 10.1% and 16.4% respectively. Hospice and palliative referral rates among non-obese patients were similar (10.1% and 15.5%). Among patients who died within 6 months of the first hospitalization, the mean time to referral to hospice or palliative care from index admission was longer in obese patients.

Conclusion:

Obesity is common in patients hospitalized with ESLD who may be approaching the end of life. Referral rates to hospice and palliative care services are low and similar regardless of BMI and despite higher co-morbidity burdens in obese patients. Obesity may delay referrals to hospice and palliative care.
Surgical Management of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Due to Unilateral Oropharyngeal Agenesis in a Patient With Stickler Syndrome
Authors: Wessinger Bronson , Kimura Kyle , Phillips James , Belcher Ryan H.
Published: December 2020

Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) results from defects interfering with closure of the velopharyngeal port. It can lead to many issues ranging from nasal regurgitation to severe speech abnormalities. Treatment is tailored to patient-specific etiology and severity, often involving surgical correction. A rare, and therefore seldom, described cause of VPI is isolated unilateral agenesis of the soft palate. We describe the case of a 2-year-old patient with Stickler syndrome possessing a unique anatomic presentation of this pathology, managed successfully with a unilateral pharyngeal flap.
Mediating Violence in Jamaica Through a Gang Truce
Authors: Katz Charles M. , Harriott Anthony , Hedberg E. C.
Published: December 2020

The article examines a gang-related peace initiative instituted in Greater August Town, Jamaica. Our objective was to understand the negotiation processes and determine whether the gang truce resulted in the desired outcome: a reduction in homicide. Bivariate analyses showed a significant decline in homicides immediately following the truce. Upon closer examination, however, comparing change in the target area to the balance areas in Jamaica and accounting for temporal trends, we found that the decline in homicide was part of a larger nationwide decline in violence and that the gang truce was not responsible for the decline. The only significant effect was the possibility that homicides were displaced outside the target area for a brief period of time.
Health Care Transition in School-Based Health Centers: A Pilot Study
Authors: White Patience H. , Ilango Samhita M. , Caskin Ana M. , la Guardia Maria G. Aramburu de , McManus Margaret A.
Published: December 2020

Nationally, there are low rates of high school–age youth receiving health care transition (HCT) preparation from health care providers. This pilot study implemented and assessed the use of a structured HCT process, the Six Core Elements of HCT, in two school-based health centers (SBHCs) in Washington, DC. The pilot study examined the feasibility of incorporating the Six Core Elements into routine care and identified self-care skill gaps among students. Quality improvement methods were used to customize, implement, and measure the Six Core Elements and HCT supports. After the pilot, both SBHCs demonstrated improvement in their implementation of the structured HCT process. More than half of the pilot participants reported not knowing how to find their doctor’s phone number and not knowing what a referral is. These findings indicate the need for incorporating HCT supports into SBHCs to help students build self-care skills necessary for adulthood.
Assault Deterrents and Educators’ Risk of Physical Assault: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Feda Denise M. , Gerberich Susan G. , Ryan Andrew D. , Nachreiner Nancy M. , McGovern Patricia M.
Published: December 2020

The study purpose was to identify associations between assault deterrent presence in kindergarten through 12th (K–12) grade schools and physical assaults (PAs) against educators. Data collected through a two-phase study identified physical and nonphysical violent events and utilized a nested case–control study to identify PA risk/protective factors. Analyses included multivariable modeling. Adjusted analyses demonstrated a significant decreased risk of PA with routine locker searches (odds ratio [ OR] = 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.29, 0.82]). Also important, although not statistically significant, were presence of video monitors ( OR = 0.72, 95% CI [0.50, 1.03]), intercoms ( OR = 0.77, 95% CI [0.55, 1.06]), and required school uniforms/dress codes ( OR = 0.74, 95% CI [0.52, 1.07]). These findings are integral to school nursing practice in which there is opportunity to influence application of relevant pilot intervention efforts as a first step in determining the potential efficacy of broad-based interventions that can positively impact the problem of school-related violence.
Evaluation of Hepatitis B Reactivation Among Patients With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treated With Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Atteya Asmaa , Ahmad Aiman , Daghstani Dima , Mushtaq Kamran , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: December 2020

Hepatitis B reactivation (HBVr) in cancer patients is a well-established complication due to chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression. Studies have reported HBVr associated with immunosuppressive medications, such as rituximab, methotrexate, and high dose steroids. There are different risks for different types of chemotherapy with rituximab carrying one of the highest risks for hepatitis B reactivation. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the standard of care in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The risk of HBVr in chronic myeloid leukemia has been reported in many studies, but to this date, there are no clear guidelines or recommendations regarding screening and monitoring of HBV in CML patients receiving TKIs. We conducted this review to identify the risk of HBVr in patients with CML who are treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We recommend testing for HBV status in patients who are to be treated with TKIs and to consider giving prophylaxis in those who are positive for HBsAg at baseline. More studies are needed to assess the risk of reactivation in patients with Hepatitis B core antibody positive receiving TKIs. Currently, monitoring such patients for reactivation may be the best strategy.
Prognostic Significance of Lactate Dehydrogenase in Patients Undergoing Surgical Resection for Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Guo Erliang , Guo Lunhua , An Changming , Zhang Cong , Song Kaibin , Wang Guohui , Duan Chunbin , Zhang Xiwei , Yang Xianguang , Yuan Zhennan , Guo Junnan , Sun Ji , Meng Hongxue , Chang Rui , Li Xiaomei , Xiu Cheng , Mao Xionghui , Miao Susheng
Published: December 2020

The aim is to estimate the prognostic value of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in patients undergoing surgical resection for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). A total of 640 resected LSCC patients were included. Preoperative lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was assessed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were conducted for overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Kaplan-Meier analysis, univariate analysis and multivariate analysis demonstrated significant prognostic value for preoperative LDH. Although LDH was predictor of OS, it failed to be a predictor of RFS. The univariate HR and 95% CI of LDH were 0.484 and 0.357-0.658 (P < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis showed that LDH (HR = 0.518, 95% CI: 0.380-0.705, p < 0.0001) was related to OS. Elevated preoperative LDH >132 IU/L was significantly associated with better survival. Preoperative LDH might be an independent prognostic marker of OS in LSCC patients undergoing surgical resection.
Cervical Cancer Among Older Women: Analyses of Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program Data
Authors: Quick Allison M. , Krok-Schoen Jessica L. , Stephens Julie A. , Fisher James L.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

To describe age-specific cervical cancer incidence rates based on demographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods:

Women with cervical cancer in the SEER program were grouped into 3 age categories. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and incidence rates were obtained for each age group.

Results:

Older women (≥65 years) had higher incidence rates of cervical cancer than women <65 years with the highest rates in black women ≥75 years. Older black women had more adverse factors at diagnosis than similarly aged white and younger black women. There was a higher incidence rate of cervical cancer in women with lower socioeconomic status (SES), with the highest rates in older black women. However, the incidence rates were similar for older black women regardless of SES.

Conclusion:

Older black have the highest cervical cancer incidence rates, regardless of SES, suggesting an age and race disparity when compared to younger and white women.
A perturbation analysis in nonlinear free vibration of a microbeam reinforced by shape memory alloy layer based on the modified couple stress theory
Authors: Ghaffari Iman , Karami Mohammadi Ardeshir
Published: December 2020

Numerous applications have been found in various microelectromechanical systems for shape memory alloys. This study analyzes the nonlinear free vibrations of a sandwiched microbeam, consisting of a shape memory alloy core and two elastic layers on either side. The behavior of the shape memory layer is modeled with the one-dimensional Brinson model. The equation of motion is derived from Hamilton’s principle and the modified couple stress theory for the Euler–Bernoulli beam and then truncated into a reduced-order model through Galerkin’s technique. An approximate analytical solution is obtained using the Lindstedt–Poincare method for different temperatures. The effects of temperature, material length scale parameter, aspect ratio, and maximum vibration amplitude on nonlinear normalized frequency have been investigated. The results have been compared with those of some previous studies and can provide a better understanding of the design of sandwiched microbeams, which have a shape memory alloy layer.
An Examination of Past Trends in School Reports to Child Welfare: Considerations for Reported Child Maltreatment
Authors: Fallon Barbara , Filippelli Joanne , Joh-Carnella Nicolette , Collin-Vézina Delphine , Lefebvre Rachael , Moody Brenda , Trocmé Nico , Quinn Ashley
Published: December 2020

This study examines whether increased interaction and observation of young children by school professionals leads to an increase in school-based reports to child welfare authorities and in the identification of child maltreatment victims. Comparing provincial-level data collected before and after full-day kindergarten implementation in Ontario, a doubling in rates of school-referred investigations involving 4- and 5-year-old children was found. There was no significant difference in the rates of maltreatment substantiation, service referrals made or transfers to ongoing services, but the rate of child functioning concerns noted in these investigations tripled. The findings suggest there are differences in how the school and child welfare systems define and respond to suspected child maltreatment. Implications for practice, policy and research are explored.
Mathew and Me: A Musical Performance Autoethnography Exploring Same-Sex Attraction in Sport
Authors: Carless David
Published: December 2020

Mathew and Me is a musical performance autoethnography that explores embodied experiences of same-sex attraction between men within heteronormative sport cultures. The performance comprises a layering of original songs, performance poetry, and personal narrative. Songwriting is used as a critical arts-based methodology to discover, interrogate, and communicate fragmentary, sensory, and embodied remembrances of lived experience. Alongside a textual representation of the performance, reflections are offered on the two methodological issues: first, the challenges of sharing music and songs within conventional academic publication and, second, the possibilities and nuances of songwriting as a methodology for critical qualitative inquiry.
Rapid rituximab infusion is safe and well tolerated in malignant and benign disease
Authors: Ursu Sorana G , Rinchuse Derek L , Lister John
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Although the safety and feasibility of rapid rituximab administration has been demonstrated for B-cell malignancies, there is scant data in the literature to support its use in patients with benign diseases.

Objective

To identify the incidence of infusion-related reaction with rapid rituximab administration in malignant and benign disease. Secondary objective was to determine the infusion time saved between standard administration and rapid rituximab administration.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted by reviewing electronic medical records from December 2018 to April 2020. Adult patients who received at least one dose of rapid rituximab were included.

Results

A total of 63 patents were included. The incidence of an infusion-related reaction with rapid rituximab was 1.6%. The one patient who reacted had a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica. The mean infusion time saved was 2.9 hours (95% CI: 2.7-3.1; P-value <0.001).

Conclusion

The use of the rapid rituximab administration is safe and well tolerated in both benign and malignant disease.
Instant rice-based composite pasta requiring no cooking
Authors: Devi Porinita , Kalita Sweety , Barooah Mridula Saikia , Saikia Ananta , Borah Abhijit , Ahmed Tobiul Hussain , Purkayastha Manashi Das
Published: December 2020

The present study was undertaken to develop rice-based composite pasta with improved cooking/rehydrating and nutritional qualities. Pasta samples (T1-T10) having different proportions of rice flour (RF, 60-80%), wheat flour (WF, 40-12%), malted green gram flour (MGGF, 5 and 10%) and guar gum (GG, 1-3%) were prepared using a single screw extruder. Pasta made of 100% WF served as the control (T0). The cooked or rehydrated samples were evaluated for their cooking properties (optimum cooking time, cooking loss and swelling index), whiteness and yellowness indices, textural and organoleptic parameters. Substitution of WF by RF significantly reduced the cooking time, and improved the whiteness and swelling indices of the samples. However, reduction in WF increased the cooking loss, compromised textural and organoleptic attributes in samples with high RF content (80%); nevertheless, addition of GG and MGGF reduced these losses and improved the sensory qualities (p < 0.05). Irrespective of the composition of rice-based pasta, the optimal cooking time ranged within 2–4 min (unlike T0) and these samples could also be rehydrated in hot water within a short span of 5 min to attain textural qualities at par with their cooked counterparts and with sensorial scores well above the limit of acceptable range (≥5) (except T3 (80%RF + 20%WF)); nonetheless the cooked ones led to higher preference from the sensory panel. Adhesiveness of the rehydrated samples was lesser than their cooked counterparts, while vice versa was observed in case of their instrumental firmness/hardness. Among these, T7 (70%RF + 19%WF + 10%MGGF + 1%GG) and T9 (80%RF + 13%WF + 5%MGGF + 2%GG) exhibited high protein content (∼1.17–1.29 times higher than T0) and the most desired low in vitro starch digestibility and calorific values (∼1.16–1.25 fold reduction). Thus low-cost quick-cooking/rehydrating pasta can be successfully developed by adding suitable amount of MGGF and GG into rice-wheat composite flours.
Citation Context Analysis as a Method for Conducting Rigorous and Impactful Literature Reviews
Authors: Anderson Marc H. , Lemken Russell K.
Published: December 2020

Citation context analysis is a detailed and rigorous form of literature review that goes beyond traditional narrative and systematic reviews to better understand the impact of seminal works and influential authors. We discuss the types of questions citation context analyses can answer and provide a set of guidelines for how to effectively conduct them. Citation context analysis holds promise for enabling a more systematic assessment of how theories are used, empirically tested, and critiqued by subsequent citing authors. This has implications for both theory development and testing, and for the improvement of citation practices within the field of organizational studies and the social and physical sciences more broadly.
Engaging Adolescent and Young Adults in Microbiome Sample Self-Collection: Strategies for Success
Authors: Chen Chen X. , Carpenter Janet S. , Murphy Tabitha , Brooks Patricia , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: December 2020

Human microbiome research provides rich opportunities to elucidate factors influencing health, uncover novel biomarkers, and expand disease treatment options. A well-conducted microbiome study depends not only on a rigorous design but also on successfully engaging participants in collecting quality samples. In this paper, we aim to describe (1) strategies our team used to engage adolescents and young adults in vaginal and gut microbiome sample self-collection and (2) their effectiveness. In our prospective, longitudinal, feasibility study of 20 female adolescents and young adults, research participants self-collected vaginal and gut microbiome samples at home. Using a participatory and iterative process, we developed strategies to engage participants in sample self-collection, including (1) providing clear instructions to ensure comprehension and buy-in, (2) providing a user-friendly take-home package, (3) minimizing disgust/embarrassment associated with sample collection, and (4) follow-up communications to facilitate sample collections and return. With these strategies, we achieved 100% participant retention and 100% sample return rates. All samples ( n = 80, 100%) were usable for downstream 16s rRNA gene sequencing and analysis. All participants rated the study procedures as acceptable, and qualitative data showed that strategies were well received by participants. This study suggests that carefully planning and implementing strategies to engage participants in sample self-collection can result in high degrees of participant compliance, sample quality, and participant satisfaction in microbiome research.
Methylphenidate-associated Alice in Wonderland syndrome
Authors: Dugauquier Artémise , Bidgoli Sina
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

We describe the case of a child affected by typical symptoms of Alice in Wonderland syndrome (AIWS), related to the methylphenidate treatment he was taking for an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). To our knowledge, this is the first case of methylphenidate-associated AIWS.

Methods:

Retrospective single center observational case report.

Case description:

A 12-year-old boy was complaining of micropsias and macropsias. Except a disruptive ADHD treated by methylphenidate for 2 years, his medical history was banal. His symptoms coincided with a change in his treatment regimen and ceased with methylphenidate discontinuation. Unfortunately, they recurred when the medication was reimplemented by his psychiatrist. The ophthalmological examination was unremarkable. We concluded to an AIWS and prescribed ancillary testing (including blood work, electroencephalogram, and brain MRI) to rule out conditions known to be associated with this syndrome. In the meanwhile, the methylphenidate dosage was readapted, and the symptoms disappeared again. Seen this clear dechallenge and rechallenge effect and the fact that all additional tests returned normal results, we deduced that our patient’s symptoms were associated to methylphenidate.

Conclusion:

AIWS could be a potential side effect of methylphenidate. Given the frequency of methylphenidate prescription for ADHD and its widespread misuse, it is important to consider this peculiar adverse effect. Every physician should be aware of the condition to offer reassurance and to prescribe the appropriate additional examinations, as life-threatening disorders can cause this syndrome.
Indigenous language learning impacts, challenges and opportunities in COVID-19 times
Authors: McIvor Onowa , Chew Kari AB , Stacey Kahtehrón:ni Iris
Published: December 2020

In March 2020, the COVID-19 global health crisis caused disruption to the daily lives and regular practices of most human populations. Indigenous language revitalization (ILR) work is often undertaken face-to-face and regularly includes the most elderly populations in our communities. Therefore, ILR activities that were not already online were vastly affected. The authors of this Situation Report are three Indigenous colleagues, scholars, language teachers, learners and co-activists in the on-going efforts toward the reclaiming, maintaining, and reviving of Indigenous languages across the lands now known as Canada and the USA. We describe the early impacts, challenges and foreseeable opportunities this current global health crisis brings to the critical work of continuing Indigenous languages into the future.
Introduction: Critically interrogating inclusion in organisations
Authors: Adamson Maria , Kelan Elisabeth , Lewis Patricia , Śliwa Martyna , Rumens Nick
Published: December 2020

This Special Issue seeks to begin to map out the key issues and contours of the emerging stream of literature on critical studies of inclusion in organisations. We aim to generate and develop further debates on critically theorising the concept, rhetoric and practices of inclusion, how inclusion manifests in different organisational contexts, how it works for different social groups, and how it continues to be implicated and interwoven with the logic of exclusion and inequality in contemporary organisations. The term ‘inclusion’ seems to have augmented the term ‘diversity’, resulting in the emergence of ‘diversity and inclusion’ as a standing term, with other terms, such as ‘equality’ and ‘equity’ currently less frequently used. In this Special Issue we treat diversity and inclusion as analytically distinct and question how far the ‘inclusion turn’ is changing practices in organisations. The papers in this Special Issue discuss how organisations ‘do’ inclusion, explore the conditions on which minority groups are included, and seek to develop a more nuanced understanding of the concept of inclusion by situating it into the broader social context and questioning the inclusion-exclusion binary.
On lower-dimensional models in lubrication, Part A: Common misinterpretations and incorrect usage of the Reynolds equation
Authors: Almqvist Andreas , Burtseva Evgeniya , Rajagopal Kumbakonam , Wall Peter
Published: December 2020

Most of the problems in lubrication are studied within the context of Reynolds’ equation, which can be derived by writing the incompressible Navier-Stokes equation in a dimensionless form and neglecting terms which are small under the assumption that the lubricant film is very thin. Unfortunately, the Reynolds equation is often used even though the basic assumptions under which it is derived are not satisfied. One example is in the mathematical modelling of elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL). In the EHL regime, the pressure is so high that the viscosity changes by several orders of magnitude. This is taken into account by just replacing the constant viscosity in either the incompressible Navier-Stokes equation or the Reynolds equation by a viscosity-pressure relation. However, there are no available rigorous arguments which justify such an assumption. The main purpose of this two-part work is to investigate if such arguments exist or not. In Part A, we formulate a generalised form of the Navier-Stokes equation for piezo-viscous incompressible fluids. By dimensional analysis of this equation we, thereafter, show that it is not possible to obtain the Reynolds equation, where the constant viscosity is replaced with a viscosity-pressure relation, by just neglecting terms which are small under the assumption that the lubricant film is very thin. The reason is that the lone assumption that the fluid film is very thin is not enough to neglect the terms, in the generalised Navier-Stokes equation, which are related to the body forces and the inertia. However, we analysed the coefficients in front of these (remaining) terms and provided arguments for when they may be neglected. In Part B, we present an alternative method to derive a lower-dimensional model, which is based on asymptotic analysis of the generalised Navier-Stokes equation as the film thickness goes to zero.
Identification of regulatory T cell molecules associated with severity of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tapia-Maltos MA , Treviño-Frenk I , García-González HB , Rosetti M , Barriga-Maldonado V , Morales-Ramírez F , López-Hernández DC , Rosetti F , Crispín JC
Published: December 2020

Background:

Regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs) exhibit functional alterations in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β is a key regulator of Treg development and function.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to determine whether the expression of functionally relevant TGF-β-regulated molecules is altered in Tregs from patients with MS.

Methods:

Expression of nine Treg markers was analyzed by multi-color flow cytometry in CD4+ T cells and Treg subpopulations of 31 untreated MS patients and age- and sex-matched healthy donors (HDs). Correlations between Treg marker expression and clinical variables were sought.

Results:

Expression of the transcription factor Helios, which defines thymic-derived Tregs, was decreased in this Treg subpopulation. The frequency of peripherally generated Tregs was increased in patients with MS, particularly in patients with progressive MS. Low frequencies of thymic-derived Tregs were associated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesion-burden and a high relapse rate. Four surface markers associated with TGF-β signaling (ABCA1, BTLA, DNAM-1, and GARP) were differentially expressed on Tregs from patients with MS and HDs. Expression levels of CD73, CD103, ABCA1, and PAR2 showed strong correlations with disease severity.

Conclusion:

We have identified novel markers abnormally expressed on Tregs from patients with MS that could detect patients with severe disease.
Interfacing with the past: Archival digitization and the construction of digital depository
Authors: Ringel Sharon
Published: December 2020

This article examines the construction of a digital collection. Using a theoretical framework adapted from digital history and historiography, it will investigate the implications of archival digitization. Through an empirical study of the National Library of Israel’s digital depository of ephemera entitled ‘Time Travel’, the article demonstrates how the selection of archival records for digital preservation, the design of the search interface, and the crowdsourcing of metadata collection are all directing archive users toward certain narratives about Israeli history and away from others. Drawing on interviews with professionals, analysis of reports, and investigations of user experience, I will unearth the political, religious, and cultural tensions that lie beneath the surface of ‘Time Travel’. This research demonstrates that digitization of archival documents is not just a technical process but a cultural, social, and political one as well.
The black neoliberal aesthetic
Authors: Nwonka Clive James
Published: December 2020

This article examines the BBC film NW as a locus for the emergence of a conditional aesthetic of black ‘convention’. I focus on its articulations about black identities to argue that such strategies are symptomatic of a hybridising of neoliberalism and themes of black consciousness in the UK screen industries. The black neoliberal aesthetic describes the mediated outcomes of the commodification of black images and popular narratives for the purpose of both black social engagement and public voyeurism. In identifying the co-opting of ideas of black cultural value by neoliberal hegemony, and accentuating the co-dependency between these in the narrating of the black British experience, I suggest that an influential dynamic constructing a particularly effective justification for black British film allows for a theorisation of the relationship between neoliberalism and mainstream representations of blackness, and how excessive articulations about black moral panic and casualty in NW map onto present-day social concerns over racial representation and cultural diversity.
China’s foreign and security policy institutions and decision-making under Xi Jinping
Authors: Cabestan Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2020

Power concentration in the hands of Xi Jinping, Chinese Communist Party General Secretary, can be interpreted not only as a reaction to the power fragmentation and the intra-party factionalism that developed under his predecessor, but also as a way to strengthen and stabilise China’s authoritarian polity. In the realm of foreign and security policy, it can also be understood as the result of China’s awareness of both the growing transnational security risks that it is facing and the need to better address the new international tasks and responsibilities it needs to fulfil as a great power. Since 2012, Xi has embarked on sweeping institutional reforms that have contributed to centralising and better coordinating foreign and security decision-making. Yet, although more integrated, China’s authoritarian system has remained fragmented, including in the realm of foreign and security policy, an area where decision-making processes are still highly opaque.
Behavior of CFRP-confined reactive powder concrete-filled steel tubes under axial compression
Authors: Li Song , Jiao Chu-Jie
Published: December 2020

Reactive powder concrete-filled steel tubes (RPCFSTs) have become an important research target in recent years. In engineering applications, RPCFSTs can provide superior vertical components for high-rise and tower buildings, thereby enabling developers to provide more floor space. However, this type of composite structure is prone to inelastic outward local buckling. The use of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) wrapping to suppress such local buckling has shown great potential in limited test results. This paper presents experimental results concerning the axial compression of CFRP-confined reactive powder concrete-filled circular steel tubes (CF-RPCFSTs). We included 18 specimens in our experimental investigation, varying the number of CFRP layers, steel tube thickness, and RPC strength. According to our test results, CF-RPCFSTs exhibit compression shear failure and drum-shaped failure. The CFRP wrap can effectively enhance bearing capacity and postpone local buckling of the steel tube. In addition, three-layer CFRP-confined RPC-filled thin-wall steel tubes are suitable for engineering. We also propose a model to calculate the bearing capacity of CF-RPCFSTs. Compared to the existing model of CFRP-confined concrete-filled steel tubes, the results obtained using the proposed model are in good agreement with our experimental results.
Outdoor environmental investigation of old communities during summer in hot summer and cold winter regions
Authors: Li Danyang , Zhao Kang , Ge Jian , Ren Mengyu
Published: December 2020

The outdoor physical environments of many old communities are unable to meet modern living requirements and require improvement urgently. This is especially true for communities in regions with extremely hot summers and cold winters, which may cause additional difficulties. This study used measurements and questionnaire data to investigate outdoor environment (the thermal, sound, light environments and air quality) and resident sensations in four such communities. Results revealed some key factors affecting outdoor environmental comfort, including summer shading, winter sunlight, air temperature, air quality, the sound environment and odour. The results also revealed that the main problems were noise, insufficient illumination and high air temperatures in summer, all of which had seriously affected comfort during outdoor activities. Specifically, noise values during the most unfavourable periods were between 57.4 and 80.6 dB(A), while average air temperatures were between 32.3°C and 35.8°C, and average illuminances were below 2.9 lx. As such, this paper proposes improvement measures such as sound barriers and greening. Further, we propose a method for prioritizing these factors for such improvements based on a combination of subjective and objective factors. This study provides data and technical references for the reconstruction of old communities in regions with hot summers and cold winters.
Missing the political: A southern critique of political ontology
Authors: Espinosa Arango Mónica L
Published: December 2020

Against the backdrop of a world in crisis that plays as the stage of the ontological turn and political ontology, and based on long-term research on Colombia’s Andean southwest indigenous politics, this article critically assesses political ontologýs claims to the powers of difference. Following Wolin, Mouffe, and Laval and Dardot, it presents a notion of the political that takes into account the passionate, educational and transformative aspects of indigenous political praxis and engagements with commonality. The analysis of Eduardo Viveiros de Castro’s ontological multinaturalism, Mario Blaser’s critique of modernity and Reason, and Arturo Escobar’s ontological political practice points at three interconnected problems: the persistent appeal to binary thinking; the making of relativism anew; and the problem regarding the dialogue and knowledge exchange between the ethnographer and the ethnographic subject. Recapturing the political is a way to engage complex and entangled political histories and experiences of democratization in which indigenous peoples emerge as bearers of the political. The feminist concept of situated knowledges is presented as an alternative to deal with knowledge partiality, self-reflexivity, political solidarity, and collaboration.
An experimental investigation on low-cycle fatigue behavior of GO-NH2-reinforced epoxy adhesive
Authors: Dabbagh Jamal , Behjat Bashir , Yazdani Mojtaba , da Silva Lucas FM
Published: December 2020

In this study, the effect of adding functionalized aminated graphene oxide up to 0.3 wt% was experimentally investigated on the mechanical properties and fatigue behavior of an epoxy adhesive with intermediate toughness. Accordingly, graphene oxide was prepared by a modified Hummers method and was modified with 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane silane agent. Bulk samples were then prepared from neat and reinforced adhesive with different weight amounts of aminated graphene oxide. Dumbbell-shaped samples with a notch were used to limit displacement at break. The results showed the presence of 0.1 wt% and 0.3 wt% aminated graphene oxide nanoplatelets, as optimum weight percentages respectively for the mechanical properties and the fatigue life, improves the modulus of elasticity by 35% and the tensile strength by 44% as well as the fatigue life by about 72–241% under different cyclic loading conditions.
Development of Al2O3-based hybrid ceramic matrix composite coating to mitigate the erosive wear of advanced steel
Authors: Gupta Avi , Kumar Deepak
Published: December 2020

Steels are susceptible to surface- and subsurface-related degradations (e.g. corrosion and wear) depending upon the working environment; however, desired properties can resolve these issues. The authors have selected the high-velocity oxygen-fuel process to develop alumina-based composite coatings on ASME SA 387 GR22 CL2 steel. The coating material chosen comprises ceria and hexagonal boron nitride as the reinforcements. The metallurgical characteristics of coatings are recorded using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Mechanical properties are mapped using a nano-indenter; and an air jet erosion test rig is used to evaluate erosion wear response. Improvements in the mechanical properties and erosive wear resistance of the hybrid coating are attributed to microstructural changes and the generation of new phases. The values of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] are used to develop the mechanistic understanding of coatings’ erosion behavior. Splat cracking and splat detachment are the observed erosion wear mechanisms.
Effect of the angle of the laid-up filaments on the surfaces on the coefficient of static friction between parts manufactured by extrusion-based 3D printing
Authors: Santana Leonardo , Alves Jorge Lino , Netto Aurélio da Costa Sabino
Published: December 2020

Three-dimensional printers, particularly the extrusion-based ones, are driving a global academic, industrial, and social revolution. The accessibility of the technology has allowed a number of enthusiasts and scientists to dedicate efforts to improve the technical properties of the parts produced. However, there is little literature on the measurement of the coefficient of friction, especially the static one, between a pair of printed parts. In this sense, an investigation was carried out in two stages, in which at first the static coefficient of friction was measured, through a simple apparatus based on the concept of the inclined plane, varying the angle of the filaments laid up on the surfaces of the two parts in contact. The parameter was analyzed at three levels—0°, 45°, and 90°—in components manufactured in poly(lactic acid) and poly(ethylene glycol terephthalate). In the second part of the research, a case study was carried out to test and validate the effects of the best and worst friction conditions on the behavior of the insertion force of snap-fit connections. The results obtained show a significant influence of the filament angle in the interaction between two printed parts. Combinations of contact with different angles decrease the static coefficient of friction, while faces with equal angles tend to increase the magnitude of the response, especially if the arrangement of the filaments allows a fit of the surfaces opposite to sliding. The static coefficient of friction of poly(lactic acid) varied from 0.12 to 0.38, while the static coefficient of friction of poly(ethylene glycol terephthalate) varied from 0.13 to 0.21. The responses of the inclined plane test allowed to predict the behavior of the insertion force and plan the design of quick fittings.
Understanding the drivers and motivations of farm diversification: Evidence from Northern Ireland using a mixed methods approach
Authors: Jack Claire , Adenuga Adewale H , Ashfield Austen , Mullan Conall
Published: December 2020

Farmers are increasingly required to become more productive and innovative to ensure effective management of farm resources and to improve their livelihoods. Farm diversification has been identified as a viable strategy that can be adopted by farm businesses to achieve these objectives in order to reduce their reliance on agricultural production as the main source of household income. In this study, we employ a mixed methods approach to analyse the factors influencing farm diversification and diversification strategies in Northern Ireland. The challenges of setting up a farm diversification enterprise were also explored. Data collection and analysis were undertaken by combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches in a two-stage process using primary data obtained from a survey of farm businesses and interviews with key stakeholders involved in the Northern Ireland agricultural sector. The study results show that the primary motivating factor in pursuing farm-level diversification is the need to generate additional income. The analysis has shown that farm level diversification has the capacity to contribute to both the sustainability of family farms and the wider rural economy. The study results support the need for governments to explore the development of policy measures to support diversification at farm level.
Rebels without a cause? ‘Criminals’ and fascism in The Authoritarian Personality
Authors: Kranebitter Andreas
Published: December 2020

An important empirical basis for the interpretations of Theodor W. Adorno, Else Frenkel-Brunswik, Daniel J. Levinson and R. Nevitt Sanford in The Authoritarian Personality (TAP) were questionnaires and in-depth interviews conducted by William R. Morrow with prisoners at California’s San Quentin prison. A reconstruction of the historical approach exposes serious methodological shortcomings, some of which Morrow openly addressed in memoranda, revealing that the supposedly particularly authoritarian attitude of the prisoners was due, among other things, to their submission to the psychiatric authority in the authoritarian situation of the prison and due to the conditions of a hierarchical prisoner society. In TAP, the empirically inadequate survey was interpreted primarily in the context of psychoanalytic literature on crime at that time, in particular Robert Lindner’s Rebel Without A Cause, whose theory of pseudo rebellion permeated TAP. Focusing on the shortcomings of TAP, this article argues, enables its inspiring insights to be appreciated.
Examination of the effect of air atmosphere on heterogeneous reactions under surface ionization of psychotropic drug molecules
Authors: Khasanov U , Iskhakova SS , Usmanov DT
Published: December 2020

The results of mass spectrometric studies of surface ionization of molecules of psychotropic drugs such as chlorpromazine, amitriptyline and medazepam in an air atmosphere have been presented. The channels of heterogeneous reactions occurring during the molecule adsorption on the hot surface of the thermoemitter from refractory metal oxides have been revealed, as well as the influence of air atmosphere on these reactions. A strong influence of the air atmosphere on the heterogeneous association reactions with the emission of [M + H]+ ions has been found. This ion line is the main in the mass spectra of all the substances under study instead of the characteristic main line in the surface ionization mass spectra obtained in vacuum. The effect of air on the reactions of dehydrogenation and dissociation of adsorbed molecules of organic compounds has been insignificant. In the surface ionization mass spectra of all the substances studied under atmospheric conditions the adduct cluster ions М⋅[М−R]+, М⋅[М−Н]+ and М⋅[М+Н]+ (where М is the molecule, R is the radical, H is the hydrogen atom) up to М⋅[М+Н]+⋅HCl. They are probably formed by adhesion of analyte molecules to the primary ions [М−R]+, [М−Н]+ and [М+Н]+. A comparative analysis has been also performed with the data obtained by chromato-mass spectrometry with electron ionization, as well as with the surface ionization data for these preparations obtained under high vacuum.
Sewing machines and weaving looms: a media archaeological encounter between fashion and film
Authors: Strauven Wanda
Published: December 2020

This article proposes thinking of media archaeology as an operating table upon which historical, material and technological interconnections between fashion and film are made. By exploring how early cinema and digital film can be coupled to textile as technology, more specifically through the mechanisms of the sewing machine and the Jacquard loom, it extends the historical span from the mid-1890s, with the invention of cinema as projection, to the early 1800s, when computational thinking was successfully implemented as weaving technique. Instead of focusing on film and fashion as means of visual representation, the author relies on the concept of inscription for a better understanding of both cinema (as recording of light and movement) and textile (with its various thread techniques of weaving, stitching, knitting, etc.).
After fashion film: social video and brand content in the influencer economy
Authors: Rees-Roberts Nick
Published: December 2020

Luxury and designer fashion brands today produce as much digital content and branded entertainment as they do design and product. Online video is a key part of that production. In this article, the author questions whether the use of the generic term ‘fashion film’ is still relevant to discussions of the moving image in the digital age. He does this by examining a range of promotional uses of the moving image by the fashion industry – by brands such as Gucci, Burberry and Louis Vuitton – on the social media platforms Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat, which blend design with media. This article seeks to engage critically with the branded dominance of ‘fashion film’ as a commercial phenomenon in contemporary visual culture by positioning it as a shape-shifting form of ‘content’ through the dissemination of moving images on social media, on mobile image-sharing platforms, in which the visual dynamic of the feed (of marketing and data) is now, in part, superseding the aesthetic framework of cinema (of narrative and drama). Rather than situating it primarily as part of film history, here the author situates the contemporary fashion-moving image at the intersection of digital interactivity, fashion branding and celebrity influence.
Screenic fashion: horizontality, minimal materiality and manual operation
Authors: Baronian Marie-Aude
Published: December 2020

Focusing on a one-minute ‘fashion film’ by the Dutch fashion designer Alexander van Slobbe for the retrospective exhibition on his work in Utrecht’s Centraal Museum in 2010, this article investigates the interconnectedness of film and fashion through their mutual concern with the processes of crafting and dressing. A close reading of Van Slobbe’s film highlights a current return to a minimal design aesthetic in both fashion and film that shows fashion as a process or as a ‘manual’ operation. This film goes beyond the portrait of a fashion designer, becoming a meditation on the material practice of designing, crafting and viewing. That practice involves an intimacy with materiality constituting the fashion garment as a material, crafted and dynamic sartorial object that requires an axial positionality stemming from horizontal closeness. Ultimately, this article presents horizontality as being part of the experience of both moving images and fashion as a material object. The aim is thus to reflect on what is termed ubiquitous ‘screenic fashion’ (as a peculiar affinity between fashion and screen) by considering an alignment of horizontality and materiality as related to a current and vivid concern in the field of fashion and clothes-making.