bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Age, Body Mass Index, Chronic Kidney Disease, Diabetes, and Genotyping Score for Efficacy of Clopidogrel: Secondary Analysis of the CHANCE Trial
Authors: Dai Liye , Xu Jie , Yan Hongyi , Chen Zimo , Pan Yuesong , Meng Xia , Li Hao , Wang Yongjun
Published: October 2021

Background and Purpose:

The age, body mass index, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and genotyping (ABCD-GENE) score is a validated risk score integrating CYP2C19 genotypes with clinical risk factors influencing clopidogrel response that would allow the more precise identification of subjects at risk for high platelet reactivity and adverse clinical outcomes. Our objective was to further verify application of the ABCD-GENE score and investigate appropriate cutoff value in patients with minor stroke or transient ischemic attack.

Methods:

In this post-analysis of the CHANCE trial (Clopidogrel in High-Risk Patients With Acute Nondisabling Cerebrovascular Events), the ABCD-GENE score was calculated for all patients enrolled in this study. By using the proposed cutoff of 10, patients were stratified as being at high risk for high platelet reactivity or not. We further categorized the ABCD-GENE score to 0 to 5, 6 to 24, and >24 to investigate the cutoff value of this scale in clinical application. Stroke recurrence at 3 months was considered as the primary outcome.

Results:

Among a total of 2923 patients with minor stroke/transient ischemic attack, there were 2273 (77.76%) with ABCD-GENE score <10 and 650 (22.24%) patients with ABCD-GENE score ≥10. Compared with the aspirin alone, hazard ratios (95% CIs) of the clopidogrel-aspirin therapy for stroke recurrence were 0.70 (0.54–0.91) and 0.76 (0.46–1.24), among patients of ABCD-GENE scores <10 and ABCD-GENE scores ≥10, respectively. Stratified analyses by ABCD-GENE score 0 to 5, 6 to 24, and >24, hazard ratios of the clopidogrel-aspirin therapy for stroke recurrence were 0.57 (95% CI, 0.38–0.85), 0.78 (0.58–1.06), and 1.20 (0.44–3.28) (
P
value for trend=0.0052).

Conclusions:

Among Chinese minor stroke/transient ischemic attack population, the efficacy of clopidogrel-aspirin therapy was decreased in patients with higher ABCD-GENE score. Our study suggests that CYP2C19 genotypes and clinical risk factors can be integrated by ABCD-GENE score to estimate the efficacy of clopidogrel-aspirin therapy.
Aspiration Versus Stent Retriever Thrombectomy for Posterior Circulation Stroke
Authors: Bernsen Marie Louise E. , Bruggeman Agnetha A.E. , Brouwer Josje , Emmer Bart J. , Majoie Charles B.L.M. , Coutinho Jonathan M. , Goldhoorn Robert-Jan B. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , van Zwam Wim H. , van der Leij Christiaan , Schonewille Wouter J. , Martens Jasper M. , Hofmeijer Jeannette ,   on behalf of the MR CLEAN Registry Investigators
Published: October 2021

Background and Purpose:

Whereas a clear benefit of endovascular treatment for anterior circulation stroke has been established, randomized trials assessing the posterior circulation have failed to show efficacy. Previous studies in anterior circulation stroke suggest that advanced thrombectomy devices were of great importance in achieving clinical benefit. Little is known about the effect of thrombectomy techniques on outcomes in posterior circulation stroke. In this study, we compare first-line strategy of direct aspiration to stent retriever thrombectomy for posterior circulation stroke.

Methods:

We analyzed data of patients with a posterior circulation stroke who were included in the Multicentre Randomized Clinical Trial of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke in the Netherlands Registry between March 2014 and December 2018, a prospective, nationwide study, in which data were collected from consecutive patients who underwent endovascular treatment for ischemic stroke in the Netherlands. We compared patients who underwent first-line aspiration versus stent retriever thrombectomy. Primary outcome was functional outcome according to the modified Rankin Scale. Secondary outcomes were reperfusion grade, complication rate, and procedure duration. Associations between thrombectomy technique and outcome measures were estimated with multivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses.

Results:

Overall, 71 of 205 patients (35%) were treated with aspiration, and 134 (65%) with stent retriever thrombectomy. Patients in the aspiration group had a lower pc-ASPECTS on baseline computed tomography, and general anesthesia was more often applied in this group. First-line aspiration was associated with better functional outcome compared with stent retriever thrombectomy (adjusted common odds ratio for a 1-point improvement on the modified Rankin Scale 1.94 [95% CI, 1.03–3.65]). Successful reperfusion (extended Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction ≥2B) was achieved more often with aspiration (87% versus 73%,
P
=0.03). Symptomatic hemorrhage rates were comparable (3% versus 4%). Procedure times were shorter in the aspiration group (49 versus 69 minutes
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

In this retrospective nonrandomized cohort study, our findings suggest that first-line aspiration is associated with a shorter procedure time, better reperfusion, and better clinical outcome than stent retriever thrombectomy in patients with ischemic stroke based on large vessel occlusion in the posterior circulation.
Self-casting and alter-casting: Healthcare professionals’ boundary work in response to peer workers
Authors: Järvinen Margaretha , Kessing Malene Lue
Published: October 2021

Within mental health services, the recovery model has been a guiding philosophy over the past decades. This model stresses ‘person-centred care’ and focuses on assisting service users to live a meaningful and hopeful life even if their illness has not been cured. As part of the recovery orientation, ‘peer workers’ (PWs), i.e. people with lived experiences of mental illness, are increasingly employed within mental health services. In this article, the authors explore how these changes open up frontiers and set in motion boundary work and identity discussions among healthcare professionals. Empirically, the article draws on qualitative data – interviews with healthcare professionals and observations of meetings – collected in mental healthcare services in Denmark. Theoretically, the article combines literature on professional boundary work with theories on ‘self-casting’, ‘alter-casting’ and ‘othering’. Analysing two sets of demarcations – those between healthcare professionals and PWs, and those between professionals and patients – the study shows how the recovery model leads to defensive boundary work as well as an opening up of boundaries.
German Pharmaceutical Pricing: Lessons for the United States
Authors: Rodwin Marc A. , Gerke Sara
Published: October 2021

To control pharmaceutical spending and improve access, the United States could adopt strategies similar to those introduced in Germany by the 2011 German Pharmaceutical Market Reorganization Act. In Germany, manufacturers sell new drugs immediately upon receiving marketing approval. During the first year, the German Federal Joint Committee assesses new drugs to determine their added medical benefit. It assigns them a score indicating their added benefit. New drugs comparable to drugs in a reference price group are assigned to that group and receive the same reimbursement, unless they are therapeutically superior. The National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds then negotiates with manufacturers the maximum reimbursement starting the 13th month, consistent with the drug's added benefit assessment and price caps in other European countries. In the absence of agreement, an arbitration board sets the price. Manufacturers accept the price resolution or exit the market. Thereafter, prices generally are not increased, even for inflation. US public and private insurers control prices in diverse ways, but typically obtain discounts by designating certain drugs as preferred and by restricting patient access or charging high copayment for nonpreferred drugs. This article draws 10 lessons for drug pricing reform in US federal programs and private insurance.
Suburban Restaurants as Evolving Suburban Anchors: The Sportsmen’s Lodge, Ventura Boulevard, and the Growth of Los Angeles’s San Fernando Valley
Authors: Barraclough Laura
Published: October 2021

Examining the historical evolution of the Sportsmen’s Lodge, a restaurant and banquet facility located on Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles’s San Fernando Valley, this essay argues that suburban restaurants have served as vital “suburban anchors” facilitating suburban growth and place-making. Established in the 1920s as a recreational fishing concession for the film industry, the Sportsmen’s Lodge expanded to become a renowned restaurant and banquet hall by the 1940s. Its facilities were used not only for social gatherings among politically conservative white homeowners, but also for business meetings where attendees strategized for the suburban region’s growth. Ironically, their success in recruiting suburban industry and infrastructure produced an increasingly dense and diverse suburban landscape in which the Sportsmen’s Lodge’s itself ultimately became obsolete. The Lodge’s recent demolition and redevelopment as a mixed-use retail complex signals the multiple purposes fulfilled by suburban restaurants, while highlighting the limits to their evolution in diversifying suburbs.
“The Accessory Ethmoidal Canal Does Not Necessarily Contain an Arterial Structure”
Authors: Gras-Cabrerizo Juan Ramón , Martel-Martin Maria , Villatoro-Sologaistoa Juan Carlos , Reina De la Torre Francisco , Mirapeix Rosa , Carrera Anna , Montserrat-Gili Joan Ramon , Pujol-Olmo Albert , Massegur-Solench Humbert
Published: October 2021

Introduction: The aim of our study is to describe the prevalence of the accessory ethmoidal artery in endonasal endoscopic cadaver dissections and to identify its intraorbital origin. Material and Methods: From 2018 to 2020, thirty-four nasal dissections were performed in seventeen adult cadaveric heads. We performed a complete ethmoidectomy to identify the ethmoidal canals. Then, we removed the bony canal and the lamina papiracea to verify the injected vessel and to confirm the vascular structure inside the canal. Results: We found the anterior ethmoidal canal (AEC) and the posterior ethmoidal canal (PEC) in 100% of nasal cavities (34/34). We identified 4 accessory ethmoidal canals (AcEC) in the 34 nasal fossae dissected (12%). All AEC contained an arterial vessel. The AcEC contained an arterial vascular structure in 2 cases, a neural structure in other specimen, and in the fourth case no structure could be verified. In 32 of 34 nasal cavities, the PEC contained an artery and only in 2 cases the PEC did not contain any vascular structure. In these specimens, we observed that the AcEC with an arterial vessel inside (6%) was closer to the posterior canal than the anterior canal. Conclusion: According to our findings, we can suggest that the presence of a canal does not necessarily imply the presence of an arterial vessel, and that presence of the accessory ethmoidal artery could be associated with the absence of posterior ethmoidal artery.
Effect of Fascia Implantation and Controlled Release of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor for Muscle Atrophy in Rat Laryngeal Paralysis
Authors: Nagai Hiromi , Nishiyama Koichiro , Seino Yutomo , Tabata Yasuhiko , Yamashita Taku
Published: October 2021

Objective

To improve lateral thyroarytenoid (TA) muscle atrophy after laryngeal paralysis, reconstruction of the vascular network of the atrophied muscle is necessary. We therefore evaluated whether the controlled release of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) with autologous fascia implantation could affect vascular reconstruction in the lateral TA muscle.

Study Design

Animal experiment.

Setting

Laboratory.

Methods

Unilateral laryngeal paralysis was induced in 20 rats. The rats were implanted with autologous fascia and a gelatin hydrogel sheet with or without 1 µg of bFGF (fascia and bFGF + fascia groups; n = 5 each) and with only a gelatin hydrogel sheet with bFGF (bFGF group: n = 5). Another group remained untreated (n = 5) at 4 months after paralysis. At 3 months since transplantation, intra‐ and intergroup comparisons of the muscle volumes and total area of blood vessels in the lateral TA muscle were performed.

Results

When compared with the untreated group, the bFGF + fascia group showed a significant increase in muscle volume (P =.0008) and vascular area (P =.0002) in the lateral TA muscle, whereas the other 2 treated groups demonstrated an insufficient effect.

Conclusion

bFGF + fascia implantation showed histologic improvement in severe laryngeal paralysis. We demonstrated that the decrease in lateral TA muscle mass after paralysis might be countered by the reconstruction of the vascular network. Our findings indicate that hypovascular and denervated areas of the laryngeal muscle can be regenerated by the implantation of growth factors and scaffolds with surgical stress.

Level of evidence

5.
Does Regional Variation in Pathogen Prevalence Predict the Moralization of Language in COVID-19 News?
Authors: Malik Musa , Hopp Frederic R. , Chen Yibei , Weber René
Published: October 2021

While there is substantial research on COVID-19’s general framing in the news, little is known about the antecedents and moderators of using moral language in communicating the disease to audiences. In this study, we rely on the Model of Intuitive Morality and Exemplars to explore how news media’s attention on COVID-19 and moralizing language in COVID-19 news vary with respect to ultimate (historical pathogen prevalence) and proximate (spread of COVID-19) socio-psychological factors. Specifically, we analyzed 1,024,800 news headlines from 28 countries published throughout 2020 and applied automated content analysis for moral language extraction. Our results provide support for increased media attention and higher levels of moralizing language in COVID-19 news for regions with high historical pathogen prevalence and COVID-19 spread. We discuss the theoretical impact of these findings in view of the socio-psychological relevance of moralizing language for disease-related news and point towards future research directions.
Does the Linguistic Expectancy Bias Extend to a Second Language?
Authors: Garrido Margarida V. , Saraiva Magda , Semin Gün R.
Published: October 2021

The linguistic expectancy bias (LEB) reflects the tendency to describe expectancy-consistent behavior more abstractly than expectancy-inconsistent. The current studies replicate the LEB in Portuguese and examine it in a second language (English). Earlier studies found differences in processing a first language (L1) and a second language (L2) shaping affective and cognitive processes. We did not expect these differences to shape the LEB because controlled lexical decisions (e.g., use of verbs and adjectives) are unlikely, even when using L2. Participants wrote stereotypically male or female behavioral descriptions for male and female targets. A new group of participants read those descriptions and was asked about their causes. Expectancy-consistent behavior was described more abstractly and shaped more dispositional inferences in L1 and L2. Aside from replicating the LEB in a different language, these studies indicate that structural features of language preserve a linguistic bias with implications for social perception even when using a second language.
(In)Sincere Demeanor and (In)Sincere Language in Crisis Communication
Authors: Clementson David E. , Page Tyler G.
Published: October 2021

Perceptions of a crisis communicator’s sincerity drive reactions to an organization’s response amidst a scandal. However, a spokesperson can nonverbally appear sincere while deceptively evading questions and can appear insincere while actually speaking sincere truths. Applying truth-default theory to crisis communication, we assess people’s reactions to a spokesperson varying in sincerity through demeanor and language. In an experiment ( N  =  801), adults from across the United States were randomly assigned to view one of four versions of a news interview. The stimuli present the spokesperson replying to questions with sincere or insincere demeanor and sincere language (conveying relevance and clarity) or insincere language (evasion and obfuscation). Results indicate that sincerity in demeanor and language interact to affect (a) account acceptance, (b) negative word-of-mouth intention, and (c) attribution of responsibility. But sincerity in language largely overrides behavioral impressions. Discussion concerns considering evasion and obfuscation as demeanor cues, when violations of relevance and clarity in language undercut a spokesperson’s believability.
Interactive Computation and Artificial Epistemologies
Authors: Parisi Luciana
Published: October 2021

What is algorithmic thought? It is not possible to address this question without first reflecting on how the Universal Turing Machine transformed symbolic logic and brought to a halt the universality of mathematical formalism and the biocentric speciation of thought. The article draws on Sylvia Wynter’s discussion of the sociogenic principle to argue that both neurocognitive and formal models of automated cognition constitute the epistemological explanations of the origin of the human and of human sapience. Wynter’s argument will be related to Gilbert Simondon’s reflections on ‘technical mentality’ to consider how socio-techno-genic assemblages can challenge the biocentricism and the formalism of modern epistemology. This article turns to ludic logic as one possible example of techno-semiotic languages as a speculative overturning of sociogenic programming. Algorithmic rules become technique-signs coinciding not with classic formalism but with interactive localities without re-originating the universality of colonial and patriarchal cosmogony.
Midwives’ acceptance of mHealth applications in the dissemination of maternal health education in primary healthcare clinics
Authors: Ramnund Sanveer , Baloyi Olivia B. , Nkwanyana Ntombifikile M. , Jarvis Mary Ann
Published: October 2021

Health education improves pregnancy outcomes, with mHealth increasing its access; however, barriers to delivering messages exist. The study aimed to describe midwives’ (N = 104) acceptance of mHealth in health educating pregnant women during and between antenatal visits at primary healthcare clinics in a sub-district of eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Yakubu and Dasuki's, self-administered questionnaire consisting of six subscales and based on the UTAUT model, guided the study. The response rate was 88.5% ( n = 92). Performance Expectancy was the highest of the six mHealth subscales, showing that midwives were willing to connect pregnant women to mHealth applications and finding them useful. Conversely, Facilitating Conditions, was lowest indicating lesser technical infrastructure to encourage the use of the system. A significant association ( p = .016) between age groups and Behavioural Intention was driven by older respondents’ (51 + years.) lower level of intent. Path analysis showed Actual Usage of the mHealth programmes was significantly associated with both Behavioral Intentions and Facilitating Conditions. If pregnant women's maternal health is to be adequately addressed, efficient use is to be made of mHealth programs, and barriers emanating from the senders (midwives), and organizational structures need identification.
The consequences of timing norms and term limits on local agency
Authors: David Lucinda
Published: October 2021

Incorporating time as a unit of analysis can enrich the study of agency by showing the specific ways in which actors are temporally constrained when responding to economic disturbances. In this paper, this is done by examining how the behavior of actors is affected by timing norms such as term limits that may be associated with an actor's position, as for example, an elected mayor or university vice-chancellor. Institutions such as timing norms and term limits shape, constrain, and enable actors in their efforts to persuade others to mobilize resources toward collective action and institutional change in regions. This paper shows the value of considering timing norms in the study of agency, by presenting a comparative case study of local actors’ responses to the closure of large research and development facilities in two cities in Sweden. Main findings from interview material and supporting documents show that the possibility to renew term limits shape how actors pursue policy initiatives. These initiatives are found to be in sync with the term limits of these actors, particularly in the schedules of policy milestones and operations. However, this paper also finds that actors actively shape these temporal constructs in order to convince other actors to support collective action efforts. This paper contributes to a more time conscious account of agency, with its cases pointing to the importance of investigating institutions with temporal dimensions that help explain how agentic processes are carried out.
Autograft Versus Allograft: The Evidence in Hip Labral Reconstruction and Augmentation
Authors: Cooper Joseph D. , Dekker Travis J. , Ruzbarsky Joseph J. , Pierpoint Lauren A. , Soares Rui W. , Philippon Marc J.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Labral augmentation and labral reconstruction have emerged as essential procedures for restoring the anatomic and functional characteristics of the hip joint in patients with a deficient hip labrum or irreparable labral tear.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to compare allograft and autograft hip labral reconstruction and augmentation. We hypothesized that autografts would entail fewer revision arthroscopic procedures.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients were identified who underwent labral reconstruction or labral augmentation using iliotibial band (ITB) allograft or ITB autograft performed by a single surgeon between 2011 and 2017. Patient-reported outcome measures collected before surgery and at minimum 2-year follow-up included the following: Hip Outcome Score Activities of Daily Living and Hip Outcome Score Sports-Specific Subscale and, at follow-up, patient satisfaction (range, 1-10, with 10 being very satisfied). Patients followed a standardized rehabilitation protocol after surgery with relative individualization to address each patient's needs. For continuous variables, comparisons between allografts and autografts were made using Student t tests or Mann-Whitney tests. Categorical comparisons were assessed using chi-square or Fisher exact test. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine the influence of graft choice on risk of revision or THA.

Results:

A total of 205 hips met 2-year inclusion criteria. ITB allografts were used for 55 patients (37 augmentations, 18 reconstructions) and ITB autografts for 150 patients (34 augmentations, 116 reconstructions). Females represented a greater proportion of allograft versus autograft patients (71% vs 46%, respectively; P = .001). Overall, autograft patients had larger alpha angles (66.6° vs 59.1°; P = .001) and longer grafts (46 vs 41 mm; P = .03) compared with allograft patients. A total of 13 (23.6%) patients required revision surgery in the allograft group compared with 11 (7.3%) in the autograft group ( P < .001). After controlling for sex, procedure (reconstruction vs augmentation), and previous surgery, the odds of revision were higher for allograft patients (OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.5-11.6). No significant differences in conversion to THA were observed between groups (allograft = 9%; autograft = 6%; P = .50), even after adjustment for the above covariates (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 0.6-7.9). No differences in postoperative patient-reported outcome measures or patient satisfaction were observed between groups.

Conclusion:

Labral augmentation or reconstruction with autograft has a significantly lower revision rate than labral augmentation or reconstruction with allograft.
Can We Eliminate Opioids After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction? A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Moutzouros Vasilios , Jildeh Toufic R. , Tramer Joseph S. , Meta Fabien , Kuhlmann Noah , Cross Austin , Okoroha Kelechi R.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Multimodal pain protocols have been effective for postsurgical pain control; however, no published protocol has been effective in eliminating opioid consumption.

Purpose:

To compare a multimodal nonopioid pain protocol versus traditional opioid medication for postoperative pain control in patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 90 patients undergoing primary ACLR were assessed for participation. We performed a prospective, randomized controlled trial in accordance with the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) 2010 statement. The study arms were a multimodal nonopioid analgesic protocol (acetaminophen, ketorolac, diazepam, gabapentin, and meloxicam) and a standard opioid regimen (hydrocodone-acetaminophen), and the primary outcome was postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores for 10 days. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported outcomes, complications, and satisfaction. The observers were blinded, and the patients were not blinded to the intervention.

Results:

A total of 9 patients did not meet inclusion criteria, and 19 patients declined participation. Thus, 62 patients were analyzed, with 28 patients randomized to the opioid group and 34 to the multimodal nonopioid group. Patients receiving the multimodal nonopioid pain regimen demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores compared with patients who received opioid pain medication ( P < .05). Patients were administered the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement and Information System Pain Interference Short Form, and no significant difference was found in patients’ preoperative scores (opioid group, 58.6 ± 7.9; multimodal nonopioid group, 57.5 ± 7.4; P = .385) and 1-week postoperative scores (opioid group, 66.3 ± 8.2; multimodal nonopioid group, 61.4 ± 8.8; P = .147). When we adjusted for possible confounders (age, sex, body mass index, graft type), no significant differences in pain control were found between the 2 groups. The most common adverse effects for both groups were drowsiness and constipation, with no difference between the groups. All patients in the multimodal nonopioid group reported satisfactory pain management.

Conclusions:

A multimodal nonopioid pain protocol provided at least equivalent pain control compared with traditional opioid analgesics in patients undergoing ACLR. Minimal side effects, which did not differ between groups, were noted, and all patients reported satisfaction with their pain management.
Tensions between Demolition and Preservation in Philadelphia
Authors: Kinahan Kelly L. , Mawhorter Sarah
Published: October 2021

This analysis examines the spatial relationships between historic districts and demolition permits in Philadelphia, a post-industrial city experiencing growth after decades of decline. We describe the spatial and temporal aspects of National Register and local historic districts, map the patterns of public and private sector demolition (2007–2021), and compare the demolition rates within and around historic districts. We find lower rates of demolitions within local historic districts as compared with the surrounding areas. However, this pattern does not hold among National Register districts, suggesting that stronger protections afforded by local ordinances are particularly important for places experiencing development pressure.
Enhanced anticancer efficacy of docetaxel through galbanic acid encapsulated into PLA-PEG nanoparticles in treatment of colon cancer, in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Hashemi Maryam , Afsharzadeh Maryam , Babaei Maryam , Ebrahimian Mahboubeh , Abnous Khalil , Ramezani Mohammad
Published: October 2021

Cancer is one of the most leading causes of human mortality and despite outstanding breakthrough in introducing new therapeutic approaches, the clinical outcomes are disappointing. Therefore, extensive research in design and preparation of more efficient drug delivery systems can open a window to shine light into the therapeutic modality. In this study, we evaluated the effect of galbanic acid (GBA) encapsulated into PLA-PEG nanoparticles (NPs) to enhanced anticancer efficacy of docetaxel (DOC) for the treatment of colon cancer. Prepared NPs were characterized by different methods in terms of size, zeta potential, and drug loading capacity. MTT assay was used to investigate the anti-proliferation of GBA-loaded PEG-PLA NPs along with DOC. The therapeutic efficacy of PEG-PLA@GBA NPs & DOC was further investigated in C26 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice model. The resulting NPs were narrowly distributed (PDI = 0.06) with the mean diameter of 148 ± 9 nm with somewhat negative charge. GBA were efficiently loaded into mPEG-PLA NPs with encapsulation efficiency of about 40% ± 3. Cytotoxicity studies showed that NPs loaded with GBA and fixed concentration of docetaxel (20 nM) have higher toxicity (IC50 = 6 ± 1.8 µM) than either PEG-PLA@GBA (IC50 = 8 ± 1.2 µM) or free GBA (IC50 = 15 ± 3.5 µM) in C26 cells. In vivo studies revealed a synergistic effect of PEG-PLA@GBA NPs and DOC on tumor growth inhibition and survival rate in comparison with monotherapy approach.
I feel at home: Perspectives of homeless library customers on public library services and social inclusion
Authors: Adams Caitlin , Krtalić Maja
Published: October 2021

Homeless library customers often face barriers to equitable library use. This study examined homeless library customers’ perspectives on general and targeted public library services, and social inclusion. Findings presented in the paper come from a qualitative phenomenological study comprising semi-structured in-depth interviews with seven self-identified regular library users of a public library in Christchurch, New Zealand, who were experiencing homelessness at the time of the study. Findings report on a diverse range of information needs and motivations for visiting a public library. Participants viewed the public library as a safe, warm, and quiet place in which to relax and escape difficulties related to experiencing homelessness. The results reflect changes in the role of public libraries and in the expectations of customers, and discuss a need for targeted library services in the form of specialist gatekeeper roles such as that of a community liaison. This study evaluated the effectiveness of general and targeted library services from users’ points of view, providing insights which could be used to inform the design of relevant information policies and services.
A hybrid optimization technique to control the machining performance of graphene/carbon/polymer (epoxy) nanocomposites
Authors: Kumar Jogendra , Verma Rajesh K , Mondal Arpan K , Singh Vijay K
Published: October 2021

The machining behavior of polymers is substantially different from metal and their alloys due to non-homogeneity and anisotropy. This article describes a hybrid optimization method during machining (milling) of epoxy nanocomposites reinforced by graphene oxide/carbon fiber (G/CF). The milling experimentation was staged according to the L9 orthogonal array of the Taguchi theory. The control of process constraints, namely, cutting speed (Vc), feed (F), depth of cut (D), and G weight % (G) have been appraised to acquired the desired machining response such as material removal rate (MRR), cutting force ( F c), and surface roughness ( R a). Grey-coupled principal component analysis (grey-PCA) effectively tackled the response priority weight during aggregation of conflicting responses. The optimal condition secured by the grey-PCA module are found as Vc = 25.12 m/min, F = 240 mm/min, D = 0.5 mm, and G = 1 %. The supplement of graphene enhances the machining characteristics of the nanocomposites, which in turn, minimizes the damages that occur during the milling process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was conducted for microstructure investigation of the machined component. The findings of confirmatory experiments show good agreement with the actual ones. The preferred solution values of grey-PCA are observed as 1.027, which confirms the proposed technique’s higher practicability.
Correlation Between Voluntary HIV Testing and Public Awareness of HIV Using Google Trends in Japan
Authors: Ishimaru Tomohiro , Yoshida Tatsuya , Fujino Yoshihisa
Published: October 2021

The aim of this article was to evaluate the correlation between the number of voluntary human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tests conducted and public awareness according to Internet search volumes from Google Trends. We used bivariate correlations to assess the relationship between the Internet search frequency for each term of HIV and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and the number of HIV tests, by time series and prefecture. We observed positive correlations between search frequencies of the terms HIV and AIDS and the number of HIV tests in both time-series analysis (HIV: r = 0.65, P < .001; AIDS: r = 0.73, P < .001) and analysis by prefecture (HIV: r = 0.71, P < .001; AIDS: r = 0.40, P = .001). The findings of this study indicate that the current stagnant number of HIV tests conducted in Japan reflects declining public awareness regarding HIV.
A Mixed-Methods Investigation of Licensed Masters-Level Social Worker’s Engagement in Outcome Evaluation
Authors: Washburn Micki , Parrish Danielle E. , Oxhandler Holly K. , Ma Anny K. , Garrison Brianna
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Little is known concerning the way that Licensed Masters-Level social workers are evaluating outcomes.

Methods

Licensed providers ( n = 111) completed a mixed-methods web-based survey regarding ways they evaluate practice outcomes. Content analysis was used to identify ways in which social workers reported evaluating practice outcomes.

Results

Evaluation methods identified were (1) not consistently evaluating client outcomes, (2) completion of follow-up appointments, (3) clinical judgment/completion of treatment plan, (4) satisfaction surveys, (5) client-reported symptom remission, (6) judgment of key informants, and (7) standardized objective measures. Objective evaluation methods were used most by individuals reporting frequent outcome evaluation, those reporting less frequent outcome evaluation used client self-report or relied on feedback from key informants to gauge client’s progress. Frequency of outcome evaluation was inversely related to perceived difficulty of evaluating outcomes.

Discussion

Social workers frequently rely on non-standardized, subjective evaluation methods. More research in this area is currently indicated.
Adult Hepatocellular Carcinoma Coexisting with Extramedullary Hematopoiesis
Authors: Noguchi Hirotsugu , Higashi Michiyo , Desaki Ryo , Tasaki Takashi , Kirishima Mari , Kitazono Ikumi , Tabata Kazuhiro , Tanimoto Akihide
Published: October 2021

Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) in adults usually occurs in the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes when bone marrow hematopoiesis fails. EMH has also been recognized in benign or malignant hepatic tumors, such as hepatoblastoma, hepatocellular adenoma, and vascular tumors. However, it is rarely encountered in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in elderly adults, and the molecular mechanism of EMH in hepatic tumors remains unclear. We present a case of a 74-year-old man without any hematopoietic disorders and hepatitis viral infection who underwent hepatic resection for HCC. Histological examination revealed a well-differentiated HCC with trilineage hematopoiesis in the tumor and non-neoplastic liver. The coexistence of HCC and EMH in adult patients with no hematopoietic disorders is very rare and must be distinguished from poorly differentiated or dedifferentiated HCC and hepatoblastoma.
Epidemiology and Survival of Colorectal Cancer in Lebanon: A Sub-National Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Chatila Rajaa , Mansour Joseph , Mugharbil Anas , Nsouli Ghazi , O’Son Lana , Sayad Edouard , Deeb Mary E.
Published: October 2021

Background

Scarce data exist about colorectal cancer (CRC) presentation and outcomes in Lebanon. The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of Lebanese patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer, particularly the method of detection, age of onset, stage at presentation, treatment modalities, and survival.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of a cohort of patients with CRC, diagnosed between 2005 and 2010, admitted to 6 major university-affiliated medical centers in Lebanon.

Results

The total sample consisted of 586 patients (median age: 64 years; M:F ratio: 1.25). The most common presenting symptoms were changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and blood per rectum. Only 3% had been diagnosed by screening colonoscopy. Of the patients diagnosed with CRC younger than 50 years of age, 72.5% had a positive family history ( P = .07). More than two-thirds of patients had an advanced stage of the disease III and IV at presentation. The Kaplan–Meier–estimated survival rate was 0%, 44.5%, 70.2%, and 78.5% for those with stage IV, III, II, and I, respectively ( P = .0001), and did not vary by age nor gender of the patient. There was no differential in survival estimate for patients with stage II and III by number of chemotherapy cycles received. However, there was a significant difference in median survivorship for patients with metastatic stage IV disease; those who received less than or equal to 9 cycles had a median survivorship of 2 years (CI: 1.31–2.68) compared to 4 years (CI: 2.36–5.63) for those who received more than 9 cycles ( P = .047). The cox regression showed while controlling for age and gender that patients diagnosed at stage IV had a hazard ratio of 8.81 (3.20–24.22) compared to those who were diagnosed at stage I ( P = .047).

Conclusions

Lebanese patients affected by colorectal cancer tend to present with advanced disease stages, leading to poor prognosis and survival.
The Experience of Working With Individuals Who Sexually Offend
Authors: Jeglic Elizabeth L. , Zulueta Ines , Katsman Kseniya
Published: October 2021

Providing treatment to those who have committed sexual offenses can be difficult and challenging work. Older studies have suggested that service providers may experience changes in mood, symptoms of trauma, and countertransference reactions due to their work. Recent research has found that effective coping and self-care strategies may mitigate these negative outcomes. Given the relative dearth of recent empirical studies, we assessed the prevalence of self-reported mood, trauma symptoms, and countertransference reactions and their relation to coping styles and self-care practices in a sample of 32 male and 52 female therapists who provided treatment to individuals convicted of sexual offenses. As expected, we found minimal levels of clinically significant depressive (4%) and trauma symptoms (9%). Some countertransference reactions to clients were reported, including intense anger, retributive fantasies, sexual attraction, and arousal. A problem-solving coping style was associated with higher levels of psychological well-being, while avoidant coping was related to increased depressive and trauma symptoms. Approximately 10% of therapists with an abuse history reported re-experiencing their own victimization. The majority of therapists reported engaging in self-care practices. The findings are discussed as they pertain to those who provide services to individuals convicted of sexual offenses.
Anisotropic imperfect interface in elastic particulate composite with initial stress
Authors: Kushch Volodymyr I , Mogilevskaya Sofia G
Published: October 2021

The model of an anisotropic interface in an elastic particulate composite with initial stress is developed as the first-order approximation of a transversely isotropic interphase between an isotropic matrix and spherical particles. The model involves eight independent parameters with a clear physical meaning and conventional dimensionality. This ensures its applicability at various length scales and flexibility in modeling the interfaces, characterized by the initial stress and discontinuity of the displacement and stress fields. The relevance of this model to the theory of material interfaces and its applicability in nanomechanics is discussed. The proposed imperfect interface model is incorporated in the unit cell model of a spherical particle composite with thermal stress owing to uniform temperature change. The rigorous solution to the model boundary value problem is obtained using the multipole expansion method. The reported accurate numerical data confirm the correctness of the developed theory, provide an estimate of its accuracy and applicability limits in the multiparticle environment, and reveal significant effects of the interphase or interface anisotropy and initial stress on the local fields and overall thermoelastic properties of the composite.
There’s So Much to Do and Not Enough Time to Do It! A Case for Sentiment Analysis to Derive Meaning From Open Text Using Student Reflections of Engineering Activities
Authors: Roy Abhik , Rambo-Hernandez Karen E.
Published: October 2021

Evaluators often find themselves in situations where resources to conduct thorough evaluations are limited. In this paper, we present a familiar instance where there is an overwhelming amount of open text to be analyzed under the constraints of time and personnel. In instances when timely feedback is important, the data are plentiful, and answers to the study questions carry lower consequences, we build a case for using a machine learning, in particular a sentiment analysis. We begin by explaining the rationale for the use of sentiment analysis and provide an introduction to this method. Next, we provide an example of a sentiment analysis leveraging data collected from a program evaluation of an engineering education intervention, specifically to text extracted from student reflections of course activities. Finally, limitations of sentiment analysis and related techniques are discussed as well as areas for future research.
‘[Cyber]bullying is too strong a word…’: Parental accounts of their children's experiences of online conflict and relational aggression
Authors: Page Jeffery Catherine
Published: October 2021

The problem of cyberbullying has been the subject of considerable media attention in Australia and has been framed as a crisis threatening the wellbeing of Australian youth, provoking a comprehensive policy and legislative response to the problem. Definitions of cyberbullying, however, remain contested and there is a lack of nuance in public debates about cyberbullying. This article draws on interviews and focus groups with forty Australian parents to determine parents’ anxieties, perspectives, and experiences in relation to cyberbullying, a perspective that has remained relatively under explored. This study found that while online conflict, exclusion and relational aggression appear common amongst young people, parents in this study eschewed the term cyberbullying, instead characterising negative online peer interactions as part of ‘normal’ child development. This paper demonstrates that a more nuanced understanding of negative online behaviours is needed. The findings have particular relevance to policy makers and organisations tasked with addressing cyberbullying.
Critical management education: Selected auto-ethnographic vignettes on how attachment to identity may disrupt learning
Authors: Knights David , Huber Guy , Longman Richard
Published: October 2021

In this essay, we explore the underlying processes of identity work in teaching from a critical management education (CME) perspective. Identity is a concern for both teachers and students and especially where the assumptions and routines on which it is grounded are challenged as in a CME learning environment. Through auto-ethnographic accounts of our teaching experience, we focus on the problems that result from being attached to an identity and how this might be explored through reflexive participative learning. Identity work describes the pursuit of these attachments without challenging the pursuit itself. A distinctive part of o2ur contribution is to consider how in taking identity for granted as a laudatory accomplishment, CME scholars often fail to recognise how our attachment to it can be an obstacle for management learning. To conclude, we speculate on the implications of our pedagogy for inculcating more critical forms of identity work, through which we might free ourselves to think and engage with the world differently.
Are you talking to me? Generation X, Y, Z responses to mobile advertising
Authors: Roth-Cohen Osnat , Rosenberg Hananel , Lissitsa Sabina
Published: October 2021

This study explores intergenerational differences in attitudes toward mobile advertising (addressing their informativeness, irritation, trustworthiness, entertainment, and intrusiveness) and actual response to mobile advertising messages in Israel. Using an online survey ( N = 408) and drawing on Congruence Theory and Generation Cohort Theory, we focus on three generations: X, Y, and Z. Findings show that all generations responded negatively when receiving an advertisement via smartphone. However, the generations differ in their patterns of association between mobile advertising attitudes and responses to mobile ads. Findings suggest that incongruence between each generation’s scheme and the five dimensions of advertising attitudes results in unfavorable responses to mobile advertising. These findings provide guidelines for future research and implications for marketers who intend to design behavioral targeting to consumers of various generational cohorts while using mobile platforms as an advertising channel.
Challenging the logic of progressive timeline, queering LGBT successes and failures in Ireland and Russia
Authors: Kondakov Alexander Sasha
Published: October 2021

This article offers a critical view of progressive timeline that is a characteristic trait of composing LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans*) world maps and, in general, of thinking about queerness globally. I regard linear narratives of time as the manifestations of power that assign progress to the imagined ‘West’ and backwardness to the ‘East’. In this effort, I, therefore, advance critical scrutiny of spatio-temporal notion of progress, but centre on time rather than space which has been the focus of previous studies. The discussion of the work of Muñoz and Edelman helps to propose criticism of progress inherent even in queer approaches to time. Conclusions from the review of this discussion are then used to study developments of ‘LGBT progress’ in two countries, namely Ireland and Russia. My analysis shows that evaluation of the countries’ experiences on the progressive timeline fails to account for nuances and heteronormativity still present in both contexts regardless of their spatial polarisation.