bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Running Biomechanics Before Injury and 1 Year After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Division I Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Knurr Keith A. , Kliethermes Stephanie A. , Stiffler-Joachim Mikel R. , Cobian Daniel G. , Baer Geoffrey S. , Heiderscheit Bryan C.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Preinjury running biomechanics are an ideal comparator for quantifying recovery after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR), allowing for assessments within the surgical and nonsurgical limbs. However, availability of preinjury running biomechanics is rare and has been reported in case studies only.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine if running biomechanics return to preinjury levels within the first year after ACLR among collegiate athletes. We hypothesized that (1) surgical knee biomechanics would be significantly reduced shortly after ACLR and would not return to preinjury levels by 12 months and (2) nonsurgical limb mechanics would change significantly from preinjury.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Thirteen Division I collegiate athletes were identified between 2015 and 2020 (6 female; mean ± SD age, 20.7 ± 1.3 years old) who had whole body kinematics and ground-reaction forces recorded during treadmill running (3.7 ± 0.6 m/s) before sustaining an ACL injury. Running analyses were repeated at 4, 6, 8, and 12 months (4M, 6M, 8M, 12M) after ACLR. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess differences in running biomechanics between post-ACLR time points and preinjury within each limb, reported as Tukey-adjusted P values.

Results:

When compared with preinjury, the surgical limb displayed significant deficits at all postoperative assessments ( P values <.01; values reported as least squares mean difference [SE]): peak knee flexion angle (4M, 13.2° [1.4°]; 6M, 9.9° [1.4°]; 8M, 9.8° [1.4°]; 12M, 9.0° [1.5°]), peak knee extensor moment (N·m/kg; 4M, 1.32 [0.13]; 6M, 1.04 [0.13]; 8M, 1.04 [0.13]; 12M, 0.87 [0.15]; 38%-57% deficit), and rate of knee extensor moment (N·m/kg/s; 4M, 22.7 [2.4]; 6M, 17.9 [2.3]; 8M, 17.5 [2.4]; 12M, 16.1 [2.6]; 33%-46% deficit). No changes for these variables from preinjury ( P values >.88) were identified in the nonsurgical limb.

Conclusion:

After ACLR, surgical limb knee running biomechanics were not restored to the preinjury state by 12M, while nonsurgical limb mechanics remained unchanged as compared with preinjury. Collegiate athletes after ACLR demonstrate substantial deficits in running mechanics as compared with preinjury that persist beyond the typical return-to-sport time frame. The nonsurgical knee appears to be a valid reference for recovery of the surgical knee mechanics during running, owing to the lack of change within the nonsurgical limb.
Adjuvant hemoadsorption therapy in patients with severe COVID-19 and related organ failure requiring CRRT or ECMO therapy: A case series
Authors: Wunderlich-Sperl Florian , Kautzky Sebastian , Pickem Christian , Hörmann Christoph
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Severe cases of the COVID-19 are often associated with the development of a fulminant sepsis-like state with a concomitant cytokine release syndrome. Recently, immunomodulating approaches to treat such a hyperinflammation have come into focus, including the use of new extracorporeal organ support therapies such as CytoSorb hemoadsorption designed to remove cytokines and other circulating mediators from blood.

Patients and methods:

Thirteen critically ill COVID-19 patients with ARDS who received either ECMO therapy and/or CRRT with concomitant multiple organ failure were included. Hemoadsorption therapy was initiated once the patient had established—or was at high risk of developing—a hyperinflammatory state with marked hemodynamic instability or progressive lung failure. Levels of inflammatory markers, vasopressor requirements, oxygenation, and ventilation parameters were measured, as well as clinically relevant outcome measures.

Results:

Combined therapy was associated with a significant reduction in inflammatory mediators, hemodynamic stabilization with a concomitant decrease in requirements for vasoactive substances, and a pronounced improvement in lung function and the need for ventilatory support. Treatment appeared safe and well-tolerated.

Conclusions:

In this case series of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients admitted to the intensive care unit with ARDS, we report effective interleukin (IL)-6 removal, reduced norepinephrine requirement, and improved lung function while receiving adjuvant, extracorporeal hemoadsorption therapy in the context of a multimodal treatment approach. The presented protocol for CytoSorb initiation may be a good foundation for the development of further prospective studies in the field and may eventually also be applied to other forms of hyperinflammatory ARDS.
Hook-wire assisted localization of a completely endophytic renal mass during three-dimensional laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: Presentation of our technique
Authors: Ferakis Nikolaos , Paparidis Spyridon , Papatheodorou Athanasios , Symeonidis Evangelos N , Katsimantas Antonios
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Totally endophytic renal masses may be invisible during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy, posing challenge to surgeons regarding tumor’s identification and resection.

Case presentation:

A 22-year-old male was incidentally diagnosed with a completely endophytic, cT1a renal mass. Percutaneous Computed Tomography-guided insertion of a hook-wire was performed prior to laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. The hook-wire anchored centrally into the tumor and its extra-renal part was easily identified intraoperatively, contributing to tumor’s identification and surgical excision. Total operative time was 185 min, warm ischemia time was 21.5 min, tumor excision time was 10 min, and total renorraphy time was 31 min. No complications were encountered perioperatively. The patient was discharged on the fourth postoperative day. Histology revealed a pT1a, clear-cell renal cell carcinoma, with negative surgical margins.

Conclusions:

Our first experience indicates that hook-wire guided excision of a completely endophytic renal mass during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy is feasible, safe, and cost-effective.
“Oh, You’re Pretty for a Dark-Skinned Girl”: Black Adolescent Girls’ Identities and Resistance to Colorism
Authors: Rosario R. Josiah , Minor Imani , Rogers Leoandra Onnie
Published: July 2021

The current analysis explored the relevance of colorism among Black girls enrolled at a predominately Black, all-girls high school, with a specific focus on their identities and well-being. Fifty-nine Black girls ( Mage = 16.97) completed a survey and semi-structured interview. Results from a two-step quant-qual analysis indicate a strong positive association between rejecting colorist ideology and positive self-esteem. Open coding of semi-structured interviews showed that 75% ( n = 44) of the sample spontaneously mentioned colorist ideology when describing their racial and gender identities, including references to skin color (56%), hair texture/style (50%), attractiveness/femininity (38%), and body type (18%). More importantly, 74% of these discussions indicated resistance to colorism illustrating Black girls’ engagement with and denouncement of ideologies of white supremacy, patriarchy, and anti-blackness. This critical qualitative analysis illustrates and offers guidance for practicing anti-racist adolescent research. We offer four insights: (a) consider the research spaces in which Black youth in our research are situated to better represent the diversity (and potential) of Black youth; (b) listen to and and follow the voices of Black girls; (c) attend to agency and resistance in development; and (d) recognize intersectionality as integral to anti-racist research.
Predictors of Neurodevelopmental Impairment After Neonatal Bacterial Meningitis
Authors: Haffner Darrah N. , Machie Michelle , Hone Emily , Said Rana R. , Maitre Nathalie L.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Neonatal bacterial meningitis has high rates of morbidity and mortality. Early clinical signs and neuroimaging suggest adverse outcomes, but little is known about their combined predictive properties. We evaluated the combination of findings most associated with death and neurodevelopmental impairment.

Methods:

Single-center retrospective cohort study of term and late preterm neonates with bacterial meningitis. Predictors of death and neurodevelopmental impairment were identified on univariate analysis and incorporated into Lasso models to identify variables best predicting adverse outcomes.

Results:

Of 103 neonates, 6 died acutely; 30% of survivors had neurodevelopmental impairment. Clinical variables (seizures, pressor support) predicted death and neurodevelopmental impairment better than the neuroimaging or combined findings (area under the curve 0.88 vs 0.79 and 0.83, respectively). Among survivors, neuroimaging findings (cerebrovascular lesions, ventriculomegaly) predicted neurodevelopmental impairment better than clinical or combined findings (area under the curve 0.82 vs 0.80 and 0.77, respectively).

Conclusions:

Seizures are important predictors of adverse outcomes in neonatal bacterial meningitis. Among survivors, neuroimaging findings help predict neurodevelopmental impairment.
Black Girls and the Beauty Salon: Fostering a Safe Space for Collective Self-Care
Authors: Battle Nishaun T.
Published: July 2021

Black girls regularly experience gendered, racial structural violence, not just from formal systems of law enforcement, but throughout their daily lives. School is one of the most central and potentially damaging sites for Black girls in this regard. In this paper, I draw attention to the role of the beauty salon as a space of renewal for Black women and girls as they navigate systems of oppression in their daily lives and report on the ways in which a specific beauty salon in Chesterfield County, Virginia, supported a group of Black high school girls. The study focuses on the exposure of Black girls to carceral measures in school settings and speaks to the role of African-American beauty salons as spaces where collective care from violence can manifest and strategies to interrupt racialized gendered violence against Black girls can emerge. As Co-Investigator of this study funded by the Department of Justice, I created the “scholar-artist-activist lab,” consisting of a small group of undergraduate and graduate students facilitating workshops with a mixed gender group of Black high-school students, to discuss, interact, and participate in social justice-centered exercises. I focus here on the experiences of the Black girls who participated in the study.
Pronouns Beyond the Binary: The Change of Attitudes and Use Over Time
Authors: Gustafsson Sendén Marie , Renström Emma , Lindqvist Anna
Published: July 2021

Gender-inclusive language, such as the Swedish pronoun hen, may aid in breaking a binary notion of gender and avoid sexism. The present study followed the implementation of a gender-inclusive third-person pronoun singular (hen) in Swedish in two surveys with representative samples in 2015 (at the time when hen was introduced in the official Swedish dictionary; N = 1212) and in 2018 (N = 2009). The surveys comprised measures of attitudes toward, and use of, hen as well as possible predictors such as area of residence, age, preferred pronoun, political orientation, and interest in gender issues. Results showed that attitudes toward hen became more positive and that use of hen increased between 2015 and 2018. About half of the population used hen in their communication in 2018, which is a 14-percentage-point increase from 2015. Younger age, she or hen as preferred pronoun, political left-wing orientation, and interest in gender issues predicted a more positive attitude and a more frequent use. Furthermore, the positive change between 2015 and 2018 was larger among younger people, indicating that hen will remain in the Swedish language. The present research is unique in that it follows a gender-fair language initiative during its implementation in representative samples, thereby providing insights for social movements aiming for gender-fair language. We also discuss the theoretical implications of a gender-inclusive pronoun in comparison with past studies on gender-fair language.
“We ‘said her name’ and got zucked”: Black Women Calling-out the Carceral Logics of Digital Platforms
Authors: Gray Kishonna L. , Stein Krysten
Published: July 2021

Scholars have grown concerned around the increasing carceral logics embedded in social media practices. In this essay, we explore the process of getting “zucked” as a trend within digital platforms that disproportionately punishes minoritized digital users. Specifically, Black women report that with the advent of increased safety measures and policies to secure users on digital platforms, they become subject to harms of the institutional practices. By extending the conversation on carcerality beyond the confines of prisons, jails, and other forms of criminal justice supervision, we argue that structures and institutions expand the lines of surveillance and that those traditionally subject to such harm continue to be affected. Although the concept of getting “zucked” might seem like an innocent response to individuals who violate terms of service, Black women suggest that this practice disparately targets them for speaking about racist and sexist incidents on- and offline. Such surveillance is misogynoir in public spaces, as Black women are punished for organizing on social media.
Topological investigation of junction flow between cylinder and flat plate
Authors: Abhilash R , Kim Kwang-Yong , Lal S Anil
Published: July 2021

The paper presents a numerical investigation on the junction flow occurring at the intersection between a wall and a protruding circular cylinder. Simulations of flow for Reynolds number ( Re) in the range [125 - 20000] have been carried out using OpenFOAM, an open source CFD tool. Plots of stream tracers have been used to qualitatively characterize the flow topology as either attachment or separation based on the type of singular points, classified as nodes and saddle points. Quantitative variations of momentum flux have been applied to identify a key mechanism for the transition of topology using the relative momentum strength of the incoming and reverse flow. Effect of a thinner boundary layer has been assessed by (i) imposing a reduced wall shear stress, and (ii) increasing the Reynolds number. Features of a typical unsteady flow, in the transition regime, at Re = 20000 have been predicted using Large Eddy Simulation (LES) with a one-equation eddy viscosity sub-grid scale model. Description of the time evolution of the topology at Re = 20000 has been able to validate the one-equation model in OpenFoam as well as to further validate the key mechanism identified for topology transition.
A novel method to improve the critical damage parameter of powder metallurgical components during the cold upsetting
Authors: Tharmaraj R , Davidson M Joseph , Raja R
Published: July 2021

In the metal forming process, the understanding of metal flows and the fracture strains are most significant to the failure/damage of the components. Usually, in metalworking, damage occurs because of nucleation, growth and coalescence of the void into a small fracture. These small fractures increased in the circumferential path due to the existence of stresses and the pores which leads to failure at the equatorial position during the upsetting of porous samples. Hence, the fracture of the workpieces strongly depends on the stresses and the pores. Such form of stresses and pores if relieved will give a better damage limit of the material. Therefore, in this research, a novel scheme of localised heating is adopted at the equatorial position of the compressed samples to enhance the critical damage parameter. The powder metallurgy route was used to prepare the required compacts with different relative densities (80%–90%) and 1 aspect ratio by applying suitable powder forming pressures. The upsetting test was performed on the obtained porous samples for various weight percentages of titanium (2%–6%) in the aluminium at the stable strain rate (0.1 s−1) and the damage location was noticed for various components. After the identification of damage position, various temperatures (100 °C–250 °C) of localised heating were attempted on the failure site of the specimens after some incremental stages of upsetting tests. The experimental results were analysed using various damage criteria and it was found that the initiation of failure is delayed and increased the critical damage value by selectively heating the samples because of relieving the stresses, reduction in porosity and changes in microstructure.
Minimizing the overall loss coefficient of flat plate solar collector using energy, entropy and exergy analysis
Authors: Sathyakala Ponnusamy , Gangadharan Sai Sundara Krishnan , Kalaiarasu Balaji
Published: July 2021

In this paper, Energy, Entropy and Exergy (EEE) analysis of flat plate solar collector is studied through a mathematical model by considering the overall loss coefficient as a non-constant parameter. The overall loss coefficient is calculated by minimizing the top loss coefficient using Lagrange multiplier optimization technique and also by empirical formulas. Further, energy efficiency, entropy generation, exergy destruction and exergy efficiency of the flat plate solar collector are also determined for the both aforesaid overall loss coefficients. The exergy efficiency of the proposed model has been doubled, when compared with the experimental measurements in the earlier literature. Also, comparing the proposed methods, it is observed that exergy efficiency obtained by using the minimal top loss coefficient is reasonably high and it enhances the overall collector’s efficiency.
Exergy and exergoeconomic analyses of serial and bypass two-stage compression on the household refrigerator-freezer and replacement of R436A refrigerant
Authors: Alihosseini Nader , Salehi Gholamreza , Lavasani Arash Mirabdolah
Published: July 2021

In this research, the performance of serial two-stage compression (STC) cycle and bypass two-stage compression (BTC) cycle on the household refrigerator-freezers is tested in the laboratory. Then, based on the results of the experiments, exergy, exergoeconomic analyses, and cycle optimization are carried out. Considering that replacing refrigerants in household refrigerator-freezers is one of the approaches to increase the performance and environmental impact of these systems, R436A refrigerant (46% Isobutene and 54% Propane mixture) is used and analyzed to replace previous refrigerants. Finally, the multi-objective optimization of the mentioned cycles is performed with both refrigerants. For analyses, two models of refrigerator-freezers with different cycles are used (STC cycle with R134a refrigerant and BTC cycle with R-600a refrigerant). In both models, two evaporators for refrigerator-freezer compartments are used. International standards (IEC 62552) are used to test refrigerator-freezers. MATLAB and REFPROP 9.1 software are used to model the systems. According to the results of the analyses, the STC cycle with R436A refrigerant has more total exergy destruction rate (0.727 kW) compared to R134a refrigerant. In the BTC cycle, in which the fresh food compartment (FFC) and freezer compartment (FZC) operate, the total exergy destruction rate with R-600a refrigerant (0.422 kW) is less than with R436A refrigerant. In the case of the BTC cycle in which only the FZC operates, the total exergy destruction rate with R-600a refrigerant (0.455 kW) is less than with R436A refrigerant. The most exergoeconomic factor among cycle equipment is related to the compressor (about 98%). The highest COP value between cycles is related to the STC cycle with R134a refrigerant.
A quantitative synthesis of Holocene vegetation change in Nigeria (Western Africa)
Authors: Adeleye Matthew Adesanya , Connor Simon Edward , Haberle Simon Graeme
Published: July 2021

Understanding long-term (centennial–millennial scale) ecosystem stability and dynamics are key to sustainable management and conservation of ecosystem processes under the currently changing climate. Fossil pollen records offer the possibility to investigate long-term changes in vegetation composition and diversity on regional and continental scales. Such studies have been conducted in temperate systems, but are underrepresented in the tropics, especially in Africa. This study attempts to synthesize pollen records from Nigeria (tropical western Africa) and nearby regions to quantitatively assess Holocene regional vegetation changes (turnover) and stability under different climatic regimes for the first time. We use the squared chord distance metric (SCD) to assess centennial-scale vegetation turnover in pollen records. Results suggest vegetation in most parts of Nigeria experienced low turnover under a wetter climatic regime (African Humid Period), especially between ~8000 and 5000 cal year BP. In contrast, vegetation turnover increased significantly under the drier climatic regime of the late-Holocene (between ~5000 cal year BP and present), reflecting the imp role of moisture changes in tropical west African vegetation dynamics during the Holocene. Our results are consistent with records of vegetation and climatic changes in other parts of Africa, suggesting the Holocene pattern of vegetation change in Nigeria is a reflection of continental-scale climatic changes.
Early Holocene bark-stripping damages as an indicator of large herbivores: Evidence from a submerged Mesolithic landscape in the Haväng area, southern Baltic basin
Authors: Edvardsson Johannes , Magnell Ola , Hansson Anton , Linderson Hans , Sjöström Arne , Nilsson Björn
Published: July 2021

A unique assemblage consisting of 113 pine samples collected from a submerged Mesolithic landscape in the Haväng area, southern Sweden, was examined to assess the presence of large herbivores, as well as changes in wild-game population density and composition. Bark-stripping damages on prehistoric trees is an extremely underutilized source of information about past game-population dynamics, yet our analyzes of wood samples – dated to around 10 500 cal. yr. BP – shows that such material can be successfully used to study the presence and activities of large herbivores, most likely ungulates. To evaluate our results, comparisons have been made with subfossil peatland trees that grew around 6000 years ago, as well as trees from two present day clearcut logging sites in southern Sweden. Furthermore, studies in a wild-game reserve were performed to recognize and understand different types of damages on trees caused by ungulates. Bark-stripping indicate the presence of ungulates, and the rate of damage is commonly associated with the density of the wild game. Bark-stripping was most frequently observed in the submerged wood material from the early Holocene, where damages were detected in 15% of the trees. In comparisons, 11% of the mid-Holocene trees show bark-stripping damages, whereas marks could be detected in the range between 0% and 6% of the trees from the two present-day clearcut logging sites. Our results show that tree-ring analyzes of prehistoric wood can generate information about wild-game dynamics of the past, and thereby being a valuable complement to more commonly used paleoecological and zooarcheological records.
Symptomatic osteonecrosis of the hip and knee in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: Prevalence, pattern, and comparison of natural course
Authors: Ersin Mehmet , Demirel Mehmet , Ekinci Mehmet , Mert Lezgin , Çetin Çiğdem , Artım Esen Bahar , İnanç Murat , Kılıçoğlu Önder İ
Published: July 2021

Objective

Osteonecrosis (ON), also known as avascular necrosis, is characterized by the collapse of the architectural bone structure secondary to the death of the bone marrow and trabecular bone. Osteonecrosis may accompany many conditions, especially rheumatic diseases. Among rheumatic diseases, osteonecrosis is most commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We assessed prevalence and distribution pattern of symptomatic ON in patients with SLE and compare the natural courses of hip and knee ON.

Methods

912 SLE patients admitted between 1981 and 2012 were reviewed. SLE patients with symptomatic ON were retrospectively identified both from the existing SLE/APS database. The prevalence of symptomatic ON was calculated; with ON, the joint involvement pattern was determined by examining the distribution of the joints involved, and then the data about the hip and knee joints were entered in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to calculate 5- and 10-year rates of ON-related hip (the hip group) and knee survival (the knee group).

Results

Symptomatic ON developed in various joints in 97 of 912 patients with SLE, and the overall prevalence of ON was detected as 10.6%. The mean age at the time of SLE and ON diagnoses were 27.9 ± 9.9 (14–53) and 34.2 ± 11.3 (16–62) years, respectively. The mean duration from diagnosis of SLE to the first development of ON was 70.7± 60.2 (range = 0–216) months. The most common site for symptomatic ON was the hips (68%, n=66), followed by the knees (38%, n = 37). According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, hip and knee joint survival rates associated with 5-year ON were 51% and 88%, and 10-year survival rates were 43% and 84%, respectively.

Conclusion

We observed that the prevalence of symptomatic ON in patients with SLE was 10.6%. With the estimated 10-year survival rates of 40% versus 84% for the hip and knee joints, respectively, hip involvement may demonstrate a more aggressive course to end-stage osteoarthritis than the knee involvement.
Hydroxychloroquine might reduce risk of incident endometriosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A retrospective population-based cohort study
Authors: Chen Fang-Yu , Chen Shuo-Wei , Chen Xinpeng , Huang Jing-Yang , Ye Zhizhong , Wei James Cheng-Chung
Published: July 2021

Background

SLE, which is common in women, is commonly treated with HCQ, an anti-inflammation medication. Reproductive-age women with SLE are prone to be impacted by endometriosis. This study analyzes the relationship between HCQ and endometriosis patients with SLE in order to determine whether HCQ is effective for treating the latter.

Methods

This population-based, retrospective cohort study analyzed the SLE risk in a cohort of newly diagnosed SLE patients with endometriosis during 2000 through 2013. Controls were selected at a 1:2 ratio through age-matching using the greedy algorithm. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze the association between HCQ use and endometriosis incidence. Four different Cox regression models were used. Lastly, sensitivity analysis with PSOW and IPW was implemented to evaluate the hazard ratio (HR) of endometriosis after exposure with HCQ.

Results

In the cohort where age and sex matched high and low HCQ dosage, the average follow-up time was about 1 year. The cohort’s overall incidence rates of endometriosis were 44.54 and 90.03 per 100000 person-month for high and low dosage respectively. The high dose group’s conditional hazard ratio (aHR) for incidental endometriosis was 0.482 (CI = 0.191 to 1.213). The incidence rate and Kaplan–Meir curves of endometriosis were consistent with the results for the cohort.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that SLE patients continuously treated with HCQ have a lower risk of developing endometriosis. Clinically, HCQ can be beneficial for endometriosis patients with SLE.
The Vicious Cycle Linking Stereotypes and Social Roles
Authors: Eagly Alice H. , Koenig Anne M.
Published: July 2021

Members of social categories defined by attributes such as sex, race, and age occupy certain types of social roles much more than members of other social categories do. The qualities that define these roles become associated with the category as a whole, thus forming a stereotype. In a vicious cycle, this stereotype then hinders category members’ movement into roles with different demands because their stereotype portrays them as well matched to their existing roles but not to these new roles. This vicious cycle has important implications for stereotype change. Given the difficulties of producing enduring change by directly attacking stereotypes in the minds of individuals, a more effective strategy consists of policies and programs that change the distributions of category members in roles, thereby changing stereotypes at their source. If the vicious cycle is not interrupted by such social change, observations of category members’ typical social roles continually reinstate existing stereotypes.
The Role of Regional Organisations in Economic Growth Among Developing Countries: A Case of the Af DB
Authors: Nyadera Israel Nyaburi , Asal Uğur Yasin , Agwanda Billy
Published: July 2021

This article seeks to examine how regional organisations in Africa are responding to the growing call for them to provide alternative approaches and models of economic development in the continent. The study interrogates the role of the African Development Bank (AfDB) as an agent of a changing global governance system and an emerging leader in Africa’s development journey. The article begins by reflecting on the debate of a decline in global governance; it looks at Africa within the global economy and examines the organisational structure, contributions and changing role of the AfDB since its inception. It concludes that the AfDB finds itself in a unique position of trust among donors and African states at a time when traditional institutions are becoming less popular. It recommends AfDB adopt a number of reforms needed to help it maximise its impact on the continent.
Racing Against the Tide? A Critique of Nigeria’s Quest for Membership of the United Nations Security Council
Authors: Omotuyi Sunday
Published: July 2021

The recent vigorous campaign by Nigerian government for a permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council is, like previous attempts, hinged on the country’s ‘track record’ in peacekeeping operations. However, in recent years, particularly since the uprising of the Boko Haram terrorist group, it appears that Nigeria’s commitment to this role has diminished considerably in its foreign policy priorities. This article, against this background, makes three arguments: First, it argues that Nigeria’s reluctance to keep faith with its peacekeeping mission is undermining the critical platform under which the quest for the seat is based. Second, notwithstanding the possession of the realist’s attributes of a regional leader, Nigeria’s poor image and dearth of soft power has created legitimacy crisis for it among regional states and beyond as none of its traditional allies in the Security Council has thrown its weight behind its bid. Finally, the study shows that the preponderance number of Nigerians does not subscribe to Nigeria’s bid in view of the security and socio-economic crises battling the country. Rather than dissipating energy on the quest, such effort should be channelled towards addressing the myriad domestic challenges threatening human security in the country.
The Iterative Development and Testing of an Interactive Mobile Application for Skill Retention of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Among High School Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Arif Adeel , Arif Amber , Fasciglione Kimberly Anne , Jafri Farrukh Nadeem
Published: July 2021

Abstract:

Background

Locations concentrated with High School (HS) students tend to have lower out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survival rates. Mobile applications (apps) have the capability to augment cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skill retention as a low-cost, accessible training method.

Methods

An iterative process to develop an app to reinforce CPR skills emphasizing hand placement, compression rate, real-time feedback, and recurring tips is described. The app was tested on HS students to measure its impact on quality and comfort of CPR using Likert surveys and skills assessments before and after one month of usage. CPR Score and compression rate were measured using the Laerdal™ Little Anne Manikin QCPR software.

Results

Fourteen HS students participated in a prospective observational study. It was found that the use of the developed app was associated with improved CPR performance (80.43% v. 87.86%, p=0.01-0.02, 95% CI=2.20-12.66) after one month. Additionally, improvements were demonstrated in compression rate accuracy (21.43% v. 64.29%, p=0.041, 95% CI=0.132-0.725), increased comfort performing CPR (3.86 v. 4.79, p<0.001, 95% CI =0.99-1.00) and comfort performing CPR on strangers (2.71 v. 4.42, p<0.001, 95% CI=1.24-2.19). In addition, for every time the app was used, CPR performance increased by 0.5668% (p=0.0182).

Conclusion

Findings suggest that mobile apps may have promising implications as augmentative tools for CPR curriculums.
Self-Esteem as a Mediator between Life Satisfaction and Depression among Cardiovascular Disease Patients
Authors: Qin Zeying , Mei Songli , Gao Tingting , Liang Leilei , Li Chuanen , Hu Yueyang , Guo Xinmeng , Meng Cuicui , Lv Jianping , Yuan Tongshuang , Fei Junsong , Tong Qian , Yang Yang
Published: July 2021

This study explores the association between life satisfaction and depression among patients with cardiovascular diseases and whether this association is mediated by self-esteem. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a third-grade hospital. We examined 300 patients with cardiovascular diseases with a mean age of 62.00 years (females, 133). Life satisfaction was associated with depression. Adding self-esteem to the model weakened the strength of the association between the two. Moreover, 34.2% of the effect of life satisfaction on depression could be explained by self-esteem. We found that self-esteem could totally explain the effect of life satisfaction on depression among patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Prevalence of Dental Anomalies in Patients With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Alveolus Treated With Gingivoperiosteoplasty
Authors: Gibson Travis L. , Grayson Barry H. , Cutting Court B. , Shetye Pradip R.
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To compare the prevalence of dental malformations and agenesis in patients who received or did not receive gingivoperiosteoplasty (GPP).

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Patients:

Review of patients born January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2007, with unilateral cleft lip and alveolus, with or without clefting of the secondary palate, who received GPP and/or secondary alveolar bone grafting (ABG). Patients were included if they had clinical images and dental radiographs available at ages 5 to 9 and 10 to 12 years. Ninety-four patients met the inclusion criteria; 46 treated with GPP, and 48 who did not receive GPP.

Outcome Measures:

Records were assessed for supernumerary, missing, and malformed teeth by a blinded examiner, and prevalence compared between groups using χ2 tests.

Results:

Cleft side lateral incisors were absent in 54% of GPP patients, compared to 50% in the no-GPP group. Two patients in the GPP group and 1 in the no-GPP group had supernumerary lateral incisors. Most lateral incisors were undersized or peg shaped in both the no-GPP (83.3%) and GPP (71.4%) groups. In the GPP group, 5 (10.9%) patients exhibited central incisor agenesis, and 3 had significant hypoplasia. In the no-GPP group, 4 (8.3%) patients exhibited central incisor agenesis, and 5 (10.5%) significant hypoplasia. These differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Gingivoperiosteoplasty was not associated with increased prevalence of dental malformation or agenesis. When performed appropriately, GPP is a safe treatment technique that does not increase the risk of dental anomalies.
The Turkish Adaptation of the Triangular Relationship Inventory: The Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: Yavuz Güler Çiğdem
Published: July 2021

Objective: According to the family systems theory, triangulation is defined as reflecting and conveying the tension between two individuals to a third individual to reduce the existing tension, stress, and anxiety. This study was conducted to adapt the “Triangular Relationship Inventory” to Turkish and to assess psychometric properties. Method: The sample of the study included 337 individuals (234 women and 103 men) aged between 18 and 25 years. The structure validity of the inventory was evaluated with the confirmatory factor analysis and reliability was evaluated with Chronbach's alpha internal consistency coefficient, test–retest method, and item analyses. Results: The result showed that the Turkish form of the Triangular Relationship Inventory showed similar psychometric properties to the original inventory. The structure which consists of the balanced, mediator, cross-generational coalition, and scapegoat subdimensions of 24 items displayed acceptable goodness-of-fit values in the Turkish sample with the 0.91 Cronbach's alpha coefficient while the reliability values of the subdimensions changed between 0.86 and 0.91. Considering the convergent validity of the inventory, there was a negative correlation between the triangular relationship and satisfaction with life and the differentiation of self, and a significant positive correlation with depression, anxiety, and stress. Conclusion: The psychometric properties revealed in this study show that the Turkish form of the Triangular Relationship Inventory is a valid and reliable measurement tool that can be used to measure the triangulation levels and roles of the individuals, who are in the Turkish sample and between the ages of 18 and 25 years, within the family system.
Couple Dynamics and Child Abuse: An Interaction Process Analysis
Authors: Bell Linda G.
Published: July 2021

Most research on child abuse has been based on clinical studies, self-reports, survey data, or official records. This paper reports on behavioral research. A group of couples where child abuse had occurred were compared with a matched comparison group of nonabusing couples. All couples were interviewed in their homes where they completed an exercise involving a discussion of opinion differences. The discussion was taped and then coded on system variables. The focus was on the relationship between the health of the couples and the abuse of children. Variables included couples’ overall health, depression, and symbiosis. The opposite of a symbiotic relationship is an individuated relationship. An individuated relationship involves clear interpersonal boundaries, meaning that differences between individuals’ ideas and opinions are respected. A distinction between symbiosis and affection was also highlighted. Symbiosis was predicted to be associated with abuse. Affection was predicted not to be associated with abuse. Results were that couples with an abused child and comparison group couples differed significantly. The couples who had an abused child were less healthy overall and had higher levels of depression. They also demonstrated relatively higher levels of symbiosis (lower levels of individuation). As predicted, affection did not differentiate the two groups. Neither did the amount of conflict. Suggestions for therapeutic work with abusing couples were presented.
Effect of oxalic acid and salicylic acid treatments on the post-harvest life of temperate grown apricot varieties (Prunus armeniaca) during controlled atmosphere storage
Authors: Batool Mariya , Bashir Omar , Amin Tawheed , Wani Sajad Mohd , Masoodi FA , Jan Nusrat , Bhat Shakeel Ahmad , Gul Amir
Published: July 2021

This study aimed at investigating the influence of different postharvest treatments with oxalic acid (OA) and salicylic acid (SA) on quality attributes and postharvest shelf life of temperate grown apricot varieties stored under controlled atmosphere (CA) storage conditions. After each treatment was given, the samples were stored in CA store maintained at a temperature of 0 °C, 90 ± 5% relative humidity, 5% oxygen and 15% carbon dioxide for 30 days. Results indicated that both OA and SA treatments significantly (p ≤ 0.05) retained total soluble solids, titratable acidity, color profile, ascorbic acid content and total phenolic content of apricot varieties and had a positive effect on antioxidant activity and texture of samples compared to control. However, carotenoid content was found to be higher in control. Both the treatments reduced chilling injury index, weight loss and decay percentage of samples. Moreover, it was found that SA treatment was the most effective treatment in maintaining visual color of apricots while OA maintained fruit firmness and effectively decreased the decay percentage and chilling injury index of apricot varieties. In conclusion, it was found that both OA and SA have the potential to extend storage life of apricots and maintain quality attributes of the crop during CA storage.
Event Perception and Social Skills in Undergraduates with ADHD Symptoms
Authors: Ryan Julia , Dugan Nathalie , Rogers Maria
Published: July 2021

Background

Event perception provides a promising, novel approach for investigating underlying cognitive mechanisms of the social impairment associated with symptoms of ADHD.

Aims

The goal of this study was to establish the relationship among event perception, symptoms of ADHD, and social skills.

Methodology

Eighty-three undergraduates were recruited from the University of Ottawa first year psychology courses (38 with ADHD, 45 without ADHD). They performed an event perception task and completed self-report questionnaires assessing social functioning and symptoms of ADHD (The Social Skills-Improvement System and the Conner’s CBRS-SR).

Results

Bootstrapping mediation analyses revealed that symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity mediated the relationship between event perception and social skills. A model with predictor and mediator reversed was also tested, and was not significant, providing strength to the directionality of the relationships. Results highlight the applicability of event perception to understanding the association between social impairment and symptoms of ADHD.
The Finance of Unemployment Compensation and Its Consequences
Authors: Guo Audrey , Johnston Andrew C.
Published: July 2021

Economists have contributed important theoretical and empirical findings to the study of unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, but a deliberate study of the effect of UI taxation’s unique structure remains undone. We summarize available evidence on UI taxation, describe the history and institutions of experience rating, and outline important lines of inquiry for future work. As unemployment has risen, so has the need for a body of policy-relevant knowledge about the function and financing of UI systems.
The Influence of Neighboring Jurisdictions Matters: Examining the Impact of Natural Disasters on Local Government Fiscal Accounts
Authors: Shi Yu , Sun Jingran
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of natural disasters on emergency and disaster relief service (EDRS) expenditure in the governmental funds for sixty-six counties in the state of Florida between 2009 and 2013. Specifically, it will explore whether the fiscal responses of local governments in these fiscal accounts are spatially dependent by using the spatial Durbin model. It finds that EDRS expenditures in the general fund and in the special revenue fund of one county are influenced by the levels of damage in neighboring counties. This study also finds a spillover effect of intergovernmental revenues from state and federal governments on these EDRS expenditures in fiscal accounts. These results suggest that the provision of public goods (such as disaster relief activities) may generate spatial spillover at the local level in the context of US federalism. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of accounting for spatial factors in the study with respect to local jurisdictions’ fiscal reactions to natural disasters.
Final Amended Safety Assessment of Sodium Sulfate as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Scott Laura N. , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Gill Lillian J. , Heldreth Bart
Published: July 2021

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) reopened the safety assessment of Sodium Sulfate, a cosmetic ingredient that is an inorganic salt reported to function in cosmetics as a viscosity increasing agent—aqueous. The Panel reviewed the relevant new data for the ingredient, including frequency of use and concentration of use, and considered data from the previous Panel assessment. The Panel concluded that Sodium Sulfate is safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentrations described in this safety assessment when formulated to be nonirritating.
Immersive Digital Tourism: The Role of Multisensory Cues in Digital Museum Experiences
Authors: Guo Kexin , Fan Alei , Lehto Xinran , Day Jonathon
Published: July 2021

Facilitated by emerging technologies, the immersive digital museum reflects disruptive innovation in today’s tourism experience and offers a multidimensional experience different from traditional museums. To better understand how visitors respond to this innovative form of digital tourism, the current research investigates visitor experiences at the digital museum and achieves a threefold goal. First, this research delineates a three-dimensional digital museum visitor experience, namely, joviality, personal escapism, and localness. Built on this experiential framework, the present research further affirms that visual and auditory cues are the most powerful multisensory cue combination in enhancing a holistic visitor experience at the digital museum. This study also finds that emotional state and sense of presence mediate the relations between the multisensory cues and visitors’ digital museum experiences. This research contributes to the conceptualization of a digital museum experience, and provides a foundation for the future research endeavor of the new generation of digital tourism.
The Improvement of Women’s Entrepreneurial Competence in Rural Tourism: An Action Learning Perspective
Authors: Rao Yong , Xie Jia , Lin Xueqiong
Published: July 2021

Rural tourism is especially appealing to women entrepreneurs. While managing rural tourism businesses requires complex abilities, rural women in most cases are impoverished and poorly educated and have scarce resources; this limits their opportunities to independently develop comprehensive abilities. Focusing on the case of a 10-year regional program aiming specifically to improve women’s entrepreneurship in China, this study examines the actual behaviors of women entrepreneurs and the outcomes of entrepreneurship improvement due to the developmental agency’s intervention. From the perspective of action learning, this study not only reveals the vital role of intellectual support, which complies with the nature of knowledge in tourism, but also proposes a theoretical framework describing the dynamic collaborative learning process between the development agency’s staff and entrepreneurs responding to the changing market. The collaborative action learning drives women entrepreneurs to overcome barriers in practice, improve entrepreneurship, and achieve independence.
Introducing Q Methodology to Program Evaluators
Authors: Harris Kevin , Oatley Chad , Mumford Steven , Pham Phung K. , Nunns Heather
Published: July 2021

This method note presents Q methodology as a useful tool for evaluators to add to their practice toolbox. Q methodology, which involves both quantitative and qualitative techniques, can help researchers and evaluators systematically understand subjectivity and the communicability of opinions and perspectives. We first provide an overview of Q methodology, followed by a brief summary of how evaluators are using Q, and an explanation of the steps for implementing Q methodology. Either by itself or with other methods, the potential uses of Q methodology in evaluation are diverse. For practical demonstration, we describe how Q methodology was used in a recent evaluation in the UK to understand stakeholder subjectivity within the program. We then reflect upon the pros and cons of using Q in program evaluation, concluding that it constitutes a worthwhile tool for evaluating complex programs.