bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of the genus Formicococcus Takahashi 1928 (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae) of China, with description of a new species
Authors: ZHANG JIANG-TAO , WU SAN-AN
Published: September 2022

Sixteen species of the genus Formicococcus (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae) are recognized from China. Among them, a new species, F. delonicola Zhang & Wu sp. n., is described and illustrated based on adult females collected from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China on Delonix regia (Fabaceae). The new species is similar to Formicococcus latens Williams 2004 in possessing oral collar tubular ducts on the head and in marginal groups on the posterior abdominal segments. However, it differs from the latter in the morphological character states of dorsal setae on abdominal segment VIII, anal ring setae length and tips morphology of cerarian setae. The monotypic genus Anaparaputo Borchsenius 1962 is recognized as a junior synonym of Formicococcus, and Anaparaputo liui Borchsenius 1962 is transferred to Formicococcus as Formicococcus liui (Borchsenius 1962) comb. n. Three species, Paraputo bambusus (Wu 2001), Paraputo eriobotryae (Wang 1985) and Planococcus mumensis Tang 1977 are here restored to Formicococcus, as F. bambusus (Wu 2001) comb. rev., F. eriobotryae Wang 1985 comb. rev. and F. mumensis (Tang 1977) comb. rev. respectively, bringing the number of Formicococcus species found in China to 16. A key to the Palaearctic and Oriental species of Formicococcus is provided.
Optimal Treatment of Tapered Coronary Artery Lesions
Authors: Vashee Chandni , Mares Adriana , Lehker Angelica , Mukherjee Debabrata
Published: September 2022

The success of a PCI is best defined by three related components: post-procedure angiographic outcomes, procedural events, and longer-term clinical outcomes. Stenting of long and complex lesions is associated with higher risk of stent thrombosis and restenosis even at long term follow-up. Tapered lesions (i.e., a significant mismatch between proximal and distal reference lumen diameters (RLD)) of the target coronary artery lesion may pose particular challenges during PCI and impact outcomes.
Customs Union, Wage Inequality and Welfare in General Equilibrium
Authors: Marjit Sugata , Sen Sharmi , Gupta Kausik
Published: September 2022

The article attempts to consider the impact of a customs union formed between two small countries embedded in the global economy and trading in intermediates, in terms of a general equilibrium framework. It shows that with such a union both countries will gain, although there will be asymmetric effect on wage inequality. However, with higher capital stock the significance of the formation of customs union will be undermined. It also shows that perfect international capital mobility will lead to finite changes in the economy, shutting down the less capital intensive unskilled export sector in each country, which in turn makes the bilateral union irrelevant. Further tariff reduction will increase inequality in both countries. We have also considered the welfare effects of formation of customs union in the form of tariff cut and such a tariff reduction unequivocally improves welfare of the customs union irrespective of small country and large country assumptions, without any intra-union income transfer.

JEL Codes: F02, F11, F55, F68
Parameter identification for Hammerstein nonlinear system with polynomial and state space model
Authors: Li Chenghao , Li Feng , Cao Qingfeng
Published: September 2022

This study investigates a two-stage parameter identification algorithm for the Hammerstein nonlinear system based on special test signals. The studied Hammerstein nonlinear system has a static nonlinear subsystem represented by polynomial basis function and a dynamic linear subsystem described by canonical observable state space model, and special test signals composed of binary signals and random signals are applied to parameter identification separation of the nonlinear subsystem and linear subsystem. The detailed identification procedures consist of two main steps. Firstly, using the characteristics that binary signals do not excite the static nonlinear subsystem, the dynamic linear subsystem parameters are identified through recursive least squares algorithm based on input-output data of binary signals. Secondly, unmeasurable state variables of the identified system are replaced with estimated values, thus the nonlinear subsystem parameters are obtained using recursive least squares algorithm with the help of input-output data of random signals. The efficiency and accuracy of proposed identification scheme are confirmed on experiment results of a numerical simulation and a practical nonlinear process, and experimental simulation results show that the developed two-stage identification algorithm has excellent predictive performance for identifying the Hammerstein nonlinear state space systems.
Determination of cohesive parameters for fibre-reinforced composite interfaces based on finite element analysis and machine learning
Authors: Yuan Mingqing , Zhao Haitao , Liu Shen , Ren Hantao , Zhang Boming , Sun Xinyang , Chen Ji’an
Published: September 2022

This paper proposed a method for determining the cohesive parameters of fibre-reinforced composite interfaces based on finite element analysis (FEA) and machine learning. 3D FEA models with different boundary conditions and 2D FEA models were created to simulate the process of microdroplet tests, and to compare their maximum reaction forces and the time costs. The proper FEA model that is accurate and efficient was adopted to establish the data set of machine learning. Machine learning based on the FEA data set was divided into two steps: feature selection and kernel ridge regression (KRR) prediction. Feature selection was carried out to confirm the validity of the features, to obtain the optimal parameter of KRR prediction and to quantitatively illustrate the effect of the cohesive parameters on the maximum reaction force. Interfacial shear strength (IFSS) and interfacial fracture toughness (IFFT) of a poly ( p-phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) fibre-reinforced epoxy composite were successfully predicted by the KRR method without extra mechanical theories or assumptions.
How Does Transformational Leadership Relieve Teacher Burnout: The Role of Self-Efficacy and Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Tian Ye , Guo Yungui
Published: September 2022

This study explored the underlying mechanisms and boundary conditions of the relationship between transformational leadership and teacher burnout. Specifically, it investigated the mediating role of teacher self-efficacy and the moderating role of teacher emotional intelligence (EI) in this relationship. Data from 539 primary and secondary school teachers were analyzed using Structural Equation Model and hierarchical regression. The results indicate that transformational leadership predicted teacher burnout negatively, self-efficacy mediated the association of transformational leadership with burnout partially, and EI strengthened the association between transformational leadership and burnout. This study has important theoretical and managerial implications as it deepens the understanding of the association between transformational leadership and burnout in the educational field and provides practical suggestions on how to relieve teacher burnout in the school context.
A new regulation control method for underactuated 3D overhead cranes
Authors: Wang Liqiang , Wu Xianqing , Lei Meizhen , Zhu Jingjing
Published: September 2022

Interconnection and damping assignment passivity-based control (IDA-PBC) has been successfully applied to many mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems. For the control of such systems, existing IDA-PBC methods have concentrated on systems with underactuation degree one, such as the ball and beam system, the vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, and the pendulum on a cart. In this paper, we focus on the application of the IDA-PBC methodology to the regulation control of a three-dimensional (3D) overhead crane system with underactuation degree two. The goal of this study is to design and analyze a regulation controller that can drive the cart to the desired position precisely and eliminate the payload swing effectively. To achieve this challenging objective, we first find an ingenious way to solve partial differential equations for constructing a Lyapunov function candidate. Then, we devise a nonlinear controller on the basis of the constructed Lyapunov function and analyze the stability of the closed-loop system by using Lyapunov techniques and LaSalle’s invariance principle. Finally, both simulation and experimental results demonstrate the proposed strategy can achieve excellent positioning accuracy and significant swing elimination, and a comparison study between the proposed method and the existing PBC method is included as well.
Atrophic Rhinitis Secondary to an Infection of Unusual Bacteria: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alyousef Mohammed , Alroqi Ahmad , AlAmari Nouf
Published: September 2022

Clinically, atrophic rhinitis (AR) is well recognized. We present the case of a patient diagnosed with AR. Sphingomonas paucimobilis, an uncommon bacterial pathogen, has been isolated in nasal cultures. This study discusses the microorganisms, causing AR. According to previous research, these infections have been associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Due to the limited knowledge on the disease, the diagnosis is frequently delayed. Thus, frequent monitoring and treatment are needed to avoid complications. This rare type of infection should be suspected in patients presenting with nasal blockage, including those from non-endemic areas.
Strategic Entry with Correlated Private Information
Authors: Wang Rongyu
Published: September 2022

This article studies how the correlation of players’ private information affects their strategic be haviour. We introduce information correlation into a static two-player strategic substitutes entry game. The degree of information correlation is measured by the correlation coefficient of a symmetric joint normal distribution, which is used to model players’ prior distribution. It is found that a cutoff strategy cannot be used for all values of correlation coefficient to solve the game, and there exists a threshold correlation coefficient value to differentiate the unique-equilibrium and the multiple (three)-equilibria situations, given other parameters. Finally, by comparative statics analysis of symmetric equilibrium strategies, we find that increasing the payoff of entry encourages players to adopt a lower entry threshold, while increasing the information correlation or jointly increasing the variances of prior distribution increases the positive entry threshold and lowers the negative entry threshold.

JEL Codes: C72, D21, D82, L13
Dramatherapy online: Here, there, and Black everywhere
Authors: Mitchell Taylor Ronnie George
Published: September 2022

This article highlights the necessary narratives and voice of a Black male dramatherapist working with unaccompanied/separated children and adolescents accessing dramatherapy online as a viable extension of dramatherapy practice. It explores the metaphor of a cyborg in relation to the dramatherapist, examining how feelings of distance may be magnified through the screen, yet offer the opportunity to co-create new connections and relationships. Holding dramatherapy sessions online challenges boundaries and space-holding, as online therapy does not include a shared physical room or container in the same way as traditional place-based dramatherapy. Remote access to therapy is enabled by technology when access to shared physical spaces is compromised. This research uses a phenomenological and naturalist retrospective analysis of voice, language and agency and aims to cultivate a philosophical repertoire to conceptualise and identify themes present in my experience of online dramatherapy.
Paracentesis for cancer-related ascites in palliative care: An international, prospective cohort study
Authors: Seah Davinia SE , Wilcock Andrew , Chang Sungwon , Sousa Mariana S , Sinnarajah Aynharan , Teoh Cy Oun , Allan Simon , Chye Richard , Doogue Matthew , Hunt Jane , Agar Meera , Currow David C
Published: September 2022

Background:

Paracentesis is commonly undertaken in patients with cancer-related ascites.

Aim:

To systematically investigate the symptomatic benefits and harms experienced by patients with cancer undergoing paracentesis using real-world data in the palliative care setting.

Design:

Prospective, multisite, observational, consecutive cohort study. Benefits and harms of paracentesis were assessed between 01/07/2018 and 31/02/2021 as part of routine clinical assessments by treating clinicians at four timepoints: (T0) before paracentesis; (T1) once drainage ceased; (T2) 24 h after T1 and (T3) 28 days after T1 or next paracentesis, if sooner.

Setting/participants:

Data were collected from 11 participating sites across five countries (Australia, England, Hong Kong, Malaysia and New Zealand) on 111 patients undergoing paracentesis via a temporary (73%) or indwelling (21%) catheter: 51% male, median age 69 years, Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Score 50.

Results:

At T1 ( n = 100), symptoms had improved for most patients (81%), specifically abdominal distension (61%), abdominal pain (49%) and nausea (27%), with two-thirds experiencing improvement in ⩾2 symptoms. In the remaining patients, symptoms were unchanged (7%) or worse (12%). At least one harm occurred in 32% of patients, the most common being an ascitic leak ( n = 14). By T3, 89% of patients had experienced some benefit and 36% some harm, including four patients who experienced serious harm, one of which was a fatal bowel perforation.

Conclusion:

Most patients obtained rapid benefits from paracentesis. Harms were less frequent and generally mild, but occasionally serious and fatal. Our findings help inform clinician-patient discussions about the potential outcomes of paracentesis in this frail population.
A Tutorial on Time-Dependent Cohort State-Transition Models in R Using a Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Example
Authors: Alarid-Escudero Fernando , Krijkamp Eline , Enns Eva A. , Yang Alan , Hunink M. G. Myriam , Pechlivanoglou Petros , Jalal Hawre
Published: September 2022

In an introductory tutorial, we illustrated building cohort state-transition models (cSTMs) in R, where the state transition probabilities were constant over time. However, in practice, many cSTMs require transitions, rewards, or both to vary over time (time dependent). This tutorial illustrates adding 2 types of time dependence using a previously published cost-effectiveness analysis of multiple strategies as an example. The first is simulation-time dependence, which allows for the transition probabilities to vary as a function of time as measured since the start of the simulation (e.g., varying probability of death as the cohort ages). The second is state-residence time dependence, allowing for history by tracking the time spent in any particular health state using tunnel states. We use these time-dependent cSTMs to conduct cost-effectiveness and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. We also obtain various epidemiological outcomes of interest from the outputs generated from the cSTM, such as survival probability and disease prevalence, often used for model calibration and validation. We present the mathematical notation first, followed by the R code to execute the calculations. The full R code is provided in a public code repository for broader implementation.
Metallic intralenticular foreign body removal without crystalline lens extraction: a case report
Authors: Abdi Fatemeh , Momenaei Bita , Tabatabaei Seyed Ali , Haydar Ali A. , Gordiz Arzhang , Hemmati Sara , Soleimani Mohammad
Published: September 2022

We describe a technique for metallic intralenticular foreign body (ILFB) removal in a patient in whom there was no or minimal cataract formation or other complications. This technique required creating two corneal small incisions around the ILFB for inserting iris retractors to expose the ILFB. At the foreign body position, a clear corneal incision was made, and then the ILFB was removed with minimal manipulation by an intraocular magnet without complications. Because most occupational traumas occur in young people, this technique avoids the adverse outcomes of lens extraction in this age group.
Study on erosion wear mechanism of natural gas elbow pipe with uneven corrosion defects
Authors: Han Chuanjun , Cai Wenbo , Guan Wenkang , Fei Yili , Li Yanxi
Published: September 2022

Due to erosion and corrosion, natural gas pipelines can be easily damaged, causing uneven corrosion defects on the inner surface of the elbow. The existence of uneven corrosion defects will affect the surface structure of the inner arch of the elbow. In this paper, the influence of uneven corrosion defects on the further corrosion of elbow was studied by computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The results show that the particles are distributed in a regular V-shape after hitting the outer arch of the non-defect elbow. However, part of the particles bounced irregularly after hitting the defect elbow, forming an irregular particle trajectory region. The uneven corrosion defects that have been created can affect the particle trajectory distribution. When the axial angle α is 45°–55° and the hoop angle φ is between 60° and 120°, the erosion of defect elbow is easily affected by corrosion pits. In addition, the maximum erosion rate of non-defect elbow can be increased with the increase of particle diameter. However, in terms of the impact of particle diameter on erosion, there are two inflection points in the maximum erosion rate of the defect elbow, showing the trend of “increase,”“decrease” and “increase.” The research can provide a theoretical support for subsequent engineering applications.
Experimental and numerical study on the influence of pneumatic parameters on the flow structure in trapped vortex combustor
Authors: Tan Yun-chuan , Chen Wei , Jia Lu , Wang Jin-tao , Sun Rui-li , Zhong Hua-gui
Published: September 2022

Flow field of combustors have been commonly used to help understand the combustion characteristics. In this study, the experimental and numerical investigation was carried out combined to study the effect of pneumatic parameters, such as the main stream Mach number, pressure ratio, and temperature, on the flow structure in a trapped vortex combustor This study aimed to investigate the influence of pneumatic parameters on the vortex center position and area of primary and secondary vortices in the cavity, and also study the distribution of axial and radial velocity in the cavity obtained by changing the inlet airflow temperature. The flow fields in the combustor cavity with the variation of main stream Mach number and pressure ratio were obtained by using Particle Image Velocimetry The results show that, a double-vortex pattern can be generated and tightly locked inside the cavity. Furthermore, the flow structure is significantly influenced by pressure ratio ( rp = 0.97–1.07) instead of mainstream Mach number (Ma = 0.13–0.17). Under the same Mach number, the location of vortex center in the main stream plane is moved with the appearance of the temperature gradient. Meanwhile, the velocity profiles indicate that the axial velocity is reduced as the temperature increase. This study provides a design guideline for combustion with the main stream and second stream, and also offers important reference value for the analysis of combustion performance in cavity.
Gordon Pask’s second-order cybernetics and Lev Vygotsky’s cultural historical theory: Understanding the role of the internet in developing human thinking
Authors: Tilak Shantanu , Glassman Michael
Published: September 2022

This three-part article reinforces crosscurrents between cybernetician Gordon Pask’s work towards creating responsive machines applied to theater and education, and Vygotsky’s theory, to advance sociohistorical approaches into the internet age. We first outline Pask’s discovery of possibilities of a neoclassical cybernetic framework for human–human, human–machine, and machine–machine conversations. Second, we outline conversation theory as an elaboration of the reconstruction of mental models/concepts by observers through reliance on sociocultural psychological approaches, and apply concepts like the zone of proximal development and perezhivanie to Paskian aesthetic technologies. Third, we interpret Pask’s teaching/learning devices as zones of proximal development, and outline how Paskian algorithms in digital devices like THOUGHTSTICKER have been generalized on today’s internet, supplemented by corporate interests. We conclude that Paskian theory may offer understandings of the roles of internet technologies in transforming human thinking, and suggest (re)designing tools incorporating algorithms that contextually advance conceptual understanding that deviates from current indexing approaches.
Tricin attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury through inhibiting nerve cell autophagy, apoptosis and inflammation by regulating the PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Liu Ying , Qu Xiaoning , Yan Mengjun , Li Dalei , Zou Rong
Published: September 2022

To elucidate the effect of tricin in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and examine its possible underlying mechanisms. Rats were randomly divided into Sham (exposed the right internal carotid arteries), I/R, and tricin (administered at various doses) groups. After the cerebral I/R injury model was established, a Morris water maze test and a tetrazolium chloride assay were performed. Apoptosis and autophagy were assessed in the nerve cells of hippocampus tissue, and the levels of inflammatory markers within animal serum were detected. Proteins related to apoptosis and the PI3K/Akt pathway were evaluated. To further investigate the mechanisms by which tricin affects brain damage, mouse neuroblastoma cells N2a were divided into control, oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R), tricin, PI3K/Akt activator, and tricin + PI3K/Akt inhibitor groups. The cell viability, apoptosis, inflammatory factors, and PI3K/Akt pathway related proteins in N2a cells were also detected. The results revealed that I/R-induced learning and memory dysfunction was improved by tricin treatment. The area of cerebral infarction, the levels of apoptosis and autophagy in nerve cells, and the serum inflammatory marker content were all decreased following tricin treatment. Additionally, the expression of Beclin-1 protein was downregulated, while the expression of Bcl-2 protein, p-PI3K/PI3K and p-Akt/Akt was upregulated after tricin treatment. Mechanistically, tricin or PI3K/Akt activator ameliorated OGD/R-induced apoptosis, autophagy, and inflammation. However, these effects were reversed following PI3K/Akt inhibitor treatment in OGD/R-induced N2a cells. In summary, this study suggested that tricin can against I/R-induced brain injury by inhibiting autophagy, apoptosis and inflammation, and activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Verbascoside represses malignant phenotypes of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells by inhibiting CDC42 via the HMGB1/RAGE axis
Authors: Ji Mingming , Sun Jian , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2022

Background

As an aggressive human malignancy, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is prevalent globally, especially in China. Verbascoside (VE) exerts anti-cancer effects in several human cancers. This work was to investigate the effects of VE on ESCC cells.

Methods

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were assessed by CCK-8, TUNEL, and Transwell assays. Gene and protein levels were detected by RT-qPCR and western blotting. CDC42 activity was evaluated by G-lisa assay.

Results

Verbascoside significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and induced cell apoptosis in ESCC cells. Furthermore, it was found that VE markedly inhibited HMGB1 and RAGE expression in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, HMGB1/RAGE upregulation partially reversed the anti-cancer effects of VE on ESCC cells. VE repressed HMGB1/RAGE-induced CDC42 activation in ESCC cells. In addition, ML141-mediated CDC42 inactivation further enhanced the effect of VE on ESCC cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that VE has significant anti-tumor potential in ESCC by suppressing HMGB1/RAGE-dependent CDC42 activation.
Risk of livedo with antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Loiseau Pierre , Foret Thomas , DeFilippis Ersilia M , Risse Jessie , Etienne Anais D , Dufrost Virginie , Moulinet Thomas , Erkan Doruk , Devilliers Hervé , Wahl Denis , Zuily Stéphane
Published: September 2022

Background

Livedo is a well-known skin condition in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) which correspond to small vessels involvement. The influence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) on the occurrence of livedo is controversial. The aim of our study was to estimate the risk of livedo associated with aPL in patients with SLE.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature from 1977 to 2021 to estimate the risk of livedo in SLE patients according to different aPL profiles. Data sources were PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, hand search, and reference lists of studies. Studies were selected if they included SLE patients with descriptions of the exposure to aPL and the outcome ( livedo). Two independent investigators assessed study eligibility, quality, and extracted patient characteristics from each study as well as exposure (aPL) and outcome ( livedo). Risk estimates were pooled using random effects models and sensitivity analyses. For all stages of the meta-analysis, we followed the PRISMA guidelines. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42015027377.

Results

Of the 2,355 articles identified, 27 were included with a total of 4,810 SLE patients. The frequency of livedo was 25.5% in aPL-positive patients and 13.3% in aPL-negative patients. The overall Odds Ratio (OR) for livedo in aPL-positive patients compared to aPL-negative patients was 2.91 (95% CI; 2.17–3.90). The risk of livedo was significantly increased for most of aPL subtypes, including lupus anticoagulant (LA) (OR = 4.45 [95% CI; 2.21–8.94]), IgG anticardiolipin (OR = 3.95 [95% CI; 2.34–6.65]), and IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein 1 (OR = 3.49 [95% CI; 1.68–7.27]).

Conclusions

We demonstrated in this meta-analysis an excess risk of livedo in aPL-positive SLE patients compared to aPL-negative patients. For daily practice, in patients with SLE, livedo associated with aPL could correspond to a peculiar group of patients with small vessel disease. Livedo could be a good candidate for inclusion in future classification criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome.
Towards a Comprehensive Corporate Sustainability Performance Evaluation in Pakistan. An Investigation into Corporate Sustainability Disclosure Quality and Comparison of GRI and non-GRI Firms
Authors: Alam Zaheer , Tariq Yasir Bin
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Pakistani corporate sector for its corporate sustainability initiatives. Over a sample of 80 non-financial firms for the period of 7 years ranging from 2014 to 2020, the study captures comprehensive corporate sustainability scores. The firms’ scores have been captured based on both the quality and level of disclosures and a comparison has been made between GRI and non-GRI reporting firms. The study finds that GRI firms are disclosing a greater amount of quality and quantity of sustainability information than non-GRI firms. The GRI guidelines are driving both the quality and level of disclosure. Overall, the disclosure is low, and it is inconsistent. The environmental disclosure is relatively lower than economic and social disclosures among the non-GRI firms. The study also provides evidence of sustainability disclosure at COVID-19 times. The disclosure scores of 21% of firms have been found in a declining trend in the year 2020. The study provides some policy implications that could lead to guide the regulatory authorities in shaping the behaviour of firms toward sustainable initiatives.
Dancing the Data: A Duo-Ethnographic Exploration Toward Dialogic Reflexivity in Qualitative Data Analysis
Authors: Snyder Kristen M. , Turesky Elizabeth F.
Published: September 2022

Qualitative researchers continue to push methodological boundaries to study social phenomena using arts-based practices. Research methodologists suggest that the arts open new possibilities in research through the very nature of the arts to stimulate and evoke perspectives. The arts promote dialogue, which yields new insights, highlights multiple meanings, and questions norm-based traditions. This article presents findings from a duo-ethnography to explore the application of the arts as a dialogic-reflexive process during the data analysis phase in qualitative research. Findings contribute with insights into how science and culture are combined methodologically to facilitate dialogic-reflexivity in research and meaning-making.
Oral oncolytic monitoring pilot with patient-reported outcomes and adherence assessments
Authors: Signorelli Jessie , Bell Christopher , Monaco Stephanie
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Patients on oral oncolytics are responsible for self-monitoring adherence and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Oncology pharmacists are in position to focus on quality and safety of care for patients on oncolytics while providing communication between the patient, physician, and specialty pharmacies. This pilot aimed to monitor patients treated by our leukemia team initiated on oral oncolytics.

Methods

From July 2020 to February 2021, patients treated by our leukemia team newly started on oncolytics were included. Pharmacists performed medication reconciliation and drug interaction screening on initiation of oral oncolytic. Pharmacists followed up at predefined intervals. On follow up adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 (MMAS-8) and patient reported outcomes (PROs) were assessed using the revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS-r). After each follow-up, a note was placed in the chart with assessment scores and recommendations.

Results

A total of 32 patients were screened with 19 patients included. Oral oncolytics included: imatinib (4), dasatinib (5), ponatinib (1), gilteritinib (2), enasidenib (1), and venetoclax (6). Fourteen drug interactions were identified, 11 medications discontinued, nine medications added, and two medications doses were changed. Twenty-six adherence assessments were performed with 21, 4, and 1 assessment demonstrating adherence, medium adherence, and low adherence, respectively. 62 ESAS-r assessments were performed with 64% reported as no symptoms, 17% as mild, 13% as moderate, and 5% as severe symptoms. Twenty laboratory tests were ordered from pharmacist recommendation on initiation and follow-up.

Conclusion

This pilot demonstrated the role pharmacists play in oral oncolytic monitoring and symptom management.
Plane waves in microstretch elastic solid with voids
Authors: Singh Dilbag , Garg Manisha , Tomar Sushil K
Published: September 2022

A linear theory of microstretch elastic solid containing uniform distribution of uniform voids has been formulated. Constitutive relations are developed by constructing suitable strain energy density function from the basic state variables. Then using the principles of mechanics, the field equations are derived for isotropic homogeneous microstretch elastic medium containing voids. The possibility of propagation of plane waves is explored and found that there may exist four sets of coupled dilatational waves and two sets of coupled transverse waves traveling with distinct speeds. The coupled longitudinal waves are found to be attenuating and dispersive, while the coupled transverse waves are dispersive but non-attenuating in nature. The coupled transverse waves are found to be independent of the presence of stretch and voids in the medium. The attenuation of coupled longitudinal waves arises due to the presence of dissipation coefficient of void volume fraction. In case of Voigt model, only the coupled transverse waves arising due to the microrotation disappear below their respective critical frequency, while in case of non-Voigt model, three sets of coupled longitudinal waves and one set of coupled transverse waves corresponding to predominantly due to the microrotation are non-progressive waves below their respective critical frequencies. Some limiting cases have been discussed and explained. Numerical computations have been carried out for Gauthier composite plate material and the results are displayed graphically.
Disjunctions in the context of management learning: An exemplary publication of narrative fiction
Authors: Américo Bruno Luiz , Clegg Stewart
Published: September 2022

Management Learning is a centre of scholarship, and thoughtful scholars strive to achieve exemplary publications – those that make a difference to both theory and practice as well as being frequently cited. Adopting the poststructuralist idea that scientific texts are literary constructions, applying this focus to translation and diffusion effects of a noted exemplar, this methodologically focussed article contributes an empirical method accounting for disjunctions in the context of management learning. We conceptualize disjunctions as differences and disconnections inhering in alternative bodies of knowledge produced about organizations and organizational practices. We do this by proposing a methodological tool embracing history for gaining insight from exemplary publication that allows students and investigators to increase the quality of their research papers. The contribution is explained in terms of two descriptive methodological concepts used to collect and analyse data, namely, style and modality. Using Jermier (1985) as an exemplary publication, we describe its context/origins, the use made of its ideas and the disjunctions that have arisen in the context of management learning. These result from the impact of the paper on the thinking of authors, as shown by subsequent networks of citations. The empirical method demonstrates how certain conceptions of narrative fiction have been used in Management and Organization Studies, in the form of emergent problems in the relationships produced connecting writer, reader and subject.
Character-enabled improvisation and the new normal: A paradox perspective
Authors: Vera Dusya , Crossan Mary M
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified and exacerbated organizational paradoxes felt by individuals largely because of the nostalgia individuals feel for the “old” normal while facing the need to let go in order to create a “new” normal. We position improvisation as a synthesis-type approach to working through the paradoxes of the pandemic. Furthermore, we look at individual differences that underpin the ability to improvise, and identify that it is the strength of character and character-based judgment of the individual that enables the enactment of a focal context, the choice to improvise, and the act of effectively improvising to work through paradoxes. Linking character to improvisation, and, vice versa, improvisation to the development of character, reveals the importance of dimensions such as courage, humility, temperance, transcendence, humanity, and collaboration in the practice of improvisation.
An experimental study on the behavior of interlocking masonry blocks manufactured using 3D printed mold
Authors: Baneshi Vahid , Dehghan Seyed Mehdi , Hassanli Reza
Published: September 2022

Masonry structure built with mortarless interlocking blocks effectively reduces the construction time and costs and also improves the quality of construction. However, due to the vast variety in the construction methods and geometry of these blocks, their behavior has not been fully understood. In this paper, an experimental study was conducted to understand the in-plane and out-of-plane behavior of interlocking mortarless masonry. Four types of interlocking blocks (namely trapezoidal-shaped, Lego-shaped, cross-shaped, and checkered-shaped blocks) as well as one simple control block with the same size as the interlocking blocks were considered. Innovative 3D printed molds were designed and manufactured to construct the designed interlocking blocks with different shapes. Masonry units were then assembled with and without adhesive paste and were subjected to six different tests including compressive, diagonal shear, in-plane and out-of-plane shear tests, as well as flexural tests in parallel and perpendicular to the bed joints directions. The results were compared in terms of the general behavior, crack pattern, failure mode, and ultimate strength. According to the results, in the flexural test perpendicular to the bed joints and diagonal shear tests, the trapezoidal-shaped and Lego-shaped blocks had the highest strength because of their side shear keys. In the flexural test in parallel to the bed joints, the cross-shaped block had the highest strength due to its highest total locked area. In the in-plane and out-of-plane shear tests, the cross- and checkered-shaped blocks respectively had the best performance due to their high inter-block contact area and out-of-plane effective contact area. This research provides a comprehensive evaluation of the effect of shapes on the behavior of interlocking blocks under different loading conditions. The outcome of this study helps designers to identify the most suitable interlocking shape based on the critical type of loading that masonry needs to be designed for.
Opportunities for transitional care and care continuity following hospital discharge of older people in three Nordic cities: A comparative study
Authors: Liljas Ann E.M. , Pulkki Jutta , Jensen Natasja K. , Jämsen Esa , Burström Bo , Andersen Ingelise , Keskimäki Ilmo , Agerholm Janne
Published: September 2022

Aim:

To outline and discuss care transitions and care continuity following hospital discharge of older people with complex care needs in three Nordic cities: Copenhagen, Tampere and Stockholm.

Methods:

Data on potential pathways following hospital discharge of older people were obtained from existing literature and expert consultations. The pathways for each system were outlined and presented in three figures. The hospital discharge process of the systems was then compared.

Results:

In all three care systems, the main care path from hospital is to home. Short-term intermediate healthcare can be provided in all three systems, possibly creating additional care transitions; however, once home, extensive home healthcare may prevent further care transitions. Opportunities for continuity of care include needs assessments (all cities) and meetings with the patient about care upon return home (Copenhagen, Stockholm). Yet this is challenged by lack of transfer of information (Tampere) and patients’ having to apply for some services themselves (Tampere, Stockholm).

Conclusions:

Comparisons of the discharge processes studied suggest that despite individual care planning and short- and long-term care options, transitional care and care continuity are challenged by limited access as some services need to be applied for by the older person themselves.
Incompressible ankle arteries predict increased morbidity and mortality in patients with an elevated ankle brachial index
Authors: Laivuori Mirjami , Peltonen Essi , Venermo Maarit , Hakovirta Harri
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Patients with an elevated ankle brachial index (ABI) > 1.3 have a high burden of disease and poorer outcome compared to patients with a lower ABI. Previously differences between patients with ABI > 1.3 have not been studied in detail. The aim of this study was to analyze the morbidity and mortality of patients with ABI > 1.3.

Methods

ABI measurements were performed in the vascular laboratory of Turku university hospital 2011–2013. Patients with ABI>1.3 in at least one lower limb were included in the study and divided into 3 groups: At least one lower limb ABI 1.3–2.5 but both limbs <2.5 (group 1), one limb ABI ≥2.5 (group 2), both limbs ABI ≥ 2.5 (group 3).

Results

534 patients were included in the study. The patients in groups 2 and 3 were more often female ( p < .001), older ( p < .001), had more diabetes ( p = .013), coronary artery disease ( p = .001) and chronic heart ( p = .010) and kidney failure ( p = .013) compared to patients in group 1. The survival of patients in group 2 and 3 was significantly poorer compared to the patients in group 1 (HR1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.2, p = .002 and 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.3, p < .001, respectively). Overall and cardiovascular mortality was higher in groups 2 and 3 than group 1.39.5% of patients with incompressible ankle arteries (ABI ≥ 2.5) in both lower limbs had toe pressure (TP) <50 mmHg and a poorer survival compared to patients with a higher TP.

Conclusions

Patients with incompressible ankle arteries have significantly higher overall and cardiovascular mortality and a greater burden of disease compared to the patients with a measurable yet abnormally high ABI. TP is a useful diagnostic tool when ABI is immeasurably high. All patients with ABI > 1.3 should be considered as high cardiovascular risk patients.
Binding of task-irrelevant contextual features in task switching
Authors: Benini Elena , Koch Iring , Mayr Susanne , Frings Christian , Philipp Andrea M.
Published: September 2022

Research in attention and action control produced substantial evidence suggesting the presence of feature binding. This study explores the binding of task-irrelevant context features in cued task switching. We predicted that repeating a context feature in trial n retrieves the trial n − 1 episode. Consequently, performance should improve when the retrieved features match the features of the current trial. Two experiments ( N = 124; N = 96) employing different tasks and materials showed that repeating the task-irrelevant context improved performance when the task and the response repeated. Furthermore, repeating the task-irrelevant context increased task repetition benefits only when the context feature appeared synchronously with cue onset, but not when the context feature appeared with a 300-ms delay (Experiment 1). Similarly, repeating the task-irrelevant context improved performance when the task and the response repeated only when the context feature was part of the cue, and not when it was part of the target (Experiment 2). Taken together, binding and retrieval processes seem to play a crucial role in task switching, alongside response inhibition processes. In turn, our study provided a better understanding of binding and retrieval of task-irrelevant features in general, and specifically on how they modulate response repetition benefits in task repetitions.
‘What are people watching in your area?’: Interrogating the role and reliability of the Netflix top 10 feature
Authors: Scarlata Alexa
Published: September 2022

Netflix’s status as a personalised service has been central to its business proposition and brand. However, recent changes to include community-based metrics within the user interface – such as the 2020 addition of a national top 10 feature – denote a shift in corporate strategy from personalisation to communal discovery. This article uses a critical communications and media industry studies approach to consider both the data being produced by the top 10 ranking and the broader industrial function of the list, especially within a longer history of audience measurement.
Effect of early integrated robot-assisted gait training on motor and balance in patients with acute ischemic stroke: a single-blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Meng Guilin , Ma Xiaoye , Chen Pengfei , Xu Shaofang , Li Mingliang , Zhao Yichen , Jin Aiping , Liu Xueyuan
Published: September 2022

Background:

Gait disruption is a common poststroke problem. Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) might improve motor function, balance, and activities of daily living.

Objective:

We compared the clinical effectiveness of early integrated RAGT using the Walkbot robotic gym with an intensity-matched enhanced lower limb therapy (ELLT) program and with conventional rehabilitation therapy (CRT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:

A total of 192 patients with acute ischemic stroke were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to receive RAGT, ELLT, or CRT. All three groups received 45 min of training daily, 3 days a week, for 4 weeks consecutively. Before and after the 4-week treatment, the patients were assessed based on a 6-minute walking test (6MWT), functional ambulation classification (FAC), timed up and go (TUG) test, dual-task walking (DTW) test, Tinetti’s test, Barthel’s index (BI), stroke-specific quality of life (SS-QOL) scale, and gait analysis parameters.

Results:

After the 4-week intervention, the results of the 6MWT, FAC, TUG, DTW, Tinetti’s test, BI, SS-QOL, and gait in the three groups significantly improved. Compared with ELLT and CRT groups, participants in the RAGT group had a better performance in 6MWT (199.11 ± 60.72 versus 182.47 ± 59.72 versus 173.69 ± 40.58, p = 0.035), FAC (4.10 ± 0.91 versus 3.69 ± 0.88 versus 3.58 ± 0.81, p = 0.044), DTW (10.29 ± 2.38 versus 12.92 ± 2.64 versus 13.89 ± 2.62, p = 0.031), SS-QOL (184.46 ± 20.53 versus 165.39 ± 20.49 versus 150.72 ± 20.59, p = 0.012), velocity (0.66 ± 0.22 versus 0.55 ± 0.23 versus 0.51 ± 0.20, p = 0.008), cycle duration (1.38 ± 0.40 versus 1.50 ± 0.38 versus 1.61 ± 0.30, p = 0.040), and swing phase symmetry ratio (SPSR, 1.10 ± 0.33 versus 1.21 ± 0.22 versus 1.48 ± 0.25, p = 0.021). The TUG, Tinetti’s test, BI, and RMT results were similar, however.

Conclusion:

In the acute stroke phase, early integrated RAGT showed greater performance in gait rehabilitation than CRT and ELLT.

Registration:

ChiCTR1900026225
Metabolic benefits of changing sedentary lifestyles in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ma Qianqian , Ye Junzhao , Shao Congxiang , Lin Yansong , Wu Tingfeng , Zhong Bihui
Published: September 2022

This study seeks to evaluate the effects of a reversal of sedentary lifestyles on the improvement of metabolic profiles in patients with NAFLD. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CNKI databases were searched up to May 15, 2021. Ten randomized controlled trials on changes in the sedentary lifestyle of patients with NAFLD were included in the analysis. Data from self-controlled case arms of randomized controlled trials investigating sedentary lifestyle alterations were extracted, and the effect size was reported as the MD and 95% CI. A total of 455 participants in 10 studies met the selection criteria. The results showed that changing a sedentary lifestyle can significantly improve ALT [MD = 4.35 (U/L), 95% CI: 0.53, 8.17], CHOL [MD = 0.31 (mmol/L), 95% CI: 0.19, 0.43], TG [MD = 0.22 (mmol/L), 95% CI: 0.10~0.34], LDL-C [MD = 0.30 (mmol/L), 95% CI: 0.02, 0.57], fasting blood glucose [MD = 0.17 (mmol/L), 95% CI: 0.03, 0.31], insulin [MD = 3.23 (pmol/L), 95% CI: 1.37~5.08], and HOMA-IR levels (MD = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.63). Changing sedentary lifestyle can also significantly improve body mass index (BMI) [MD = 1.12 (kg/m2), 95% CI: 0.66, 0.58], body fat (%) [MD = 0.34 (%), 95% CI: 0.13, 0.55] and VO2peak levels [MD = −4.00 (mL/kg/min), 95% CI: −5.93, −2.06]. No differences in AST or GGT were noted before or after lifestyle changes. Altering a sedentary lifestyle to a lifestyle with regular exercise can slightly improve the levels of liver enzymes, blood lipids, blood glucose, insulin resistance, and body mass index in NAFLD patients.