bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep learning based automatic vertical height adjustment of incorrectly fastened seat belts for driver and passenger safety in fleet vehicles
Authors: Şener Arif Şenol , Ince Ibrahim Furkan , Baydargil Husnu Baris , Garip Ilhan , Ozturk Oktay
Published: June 2021

The recognition of incorrect fastening of seat belts is significant in passenger and driver safety for the automotive industry and public health. It should be made sure that the passenger’s seat belt is not only fastened but also correctly fastened across the body so that the passenger is adequately protected in the event of an accident. Current technology employs the buckle effect sensor, which merely solves the buckling detection problem, but there is no reliable solution for the correct positioning of the seat belt. Additionally, computer vision-based systems are still incapable of recognizing the incorrect positioning of seat belts when the training is performed by employing the subjects out of the fleet. Considering this fact, in this study, we propose a novel solution that employs a vision-based incorrect fastening seat belt detector to perform automatic vertical height adjustment independent from drivers and passengers for the fleet vehicles. We recognize the incorrect positioning of the seat belt inside the car by the acceptable distance of the seat belt from the neck of drivers or passengers to avoid neck injuries and the deaths caused by neck cuts. An extensive benchmarking is performed by comparing the three CNN architectures such as; DenseNet121, GoogLeNet (Inception-v3), ResNet50 with respect to sensitivity, specificity, precision, false-positive rate, false-negative rate, F1 score, and accuracy. Additionally, training and validation loss curves and accuracy curves are plotted for all the models. Later, the three models are evaluated with a precision-recall (PR) curve at the end. According to the results, the DenseNet121 achieved the highest classification accuracy among the tested models with 99.95%. This paper includes information about the proposed system elements, registration of data, elaboration of data, program algorithm, testing the system in the lab, and on the vehicle.
Regulating patient safety during hospital discharges: Casting the Patient Safety Commissioner as the Representative of Order
Authors: Moore Victoria L.
Published: June 2021

This article examines the challenges in regulating patient safety during hospital discharges in England through the lens of liminality. Hospital discharges are internationally recognised as being a dangerous time for patients, and yet the role that regulators should play in addressing this has received little attention in any jurisdiction. Liminality’s spotlight on the in-between highlights how the discharge process can give rise to patient safety incidents that fall between regulator’s boundaries. Falling between boundaries results in a dearth of effective regulatory responses to address these incidents. By positioning the new role of Patient Safety Commissioner (PSC) as that of a ‘Representative of Order’, this article proposes a means by which this poorly regulated space could be navigated more successfully. This analysis suggests that the remit of the PSC role be expanded to include improving patient safety with regard to processes – not just medicines and medical devices. The full implications of this are also addressed.
A Comparison of Self-Reported Anxiety and Depression Among Undergraduate Music Majors and Nonmusic Majors
Authors: Gilbert Danni
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this exploratory research study was to compare anxiety and depression levels reported by music majors and nonmajors at a small, private liberal arts university. Study participants completed the Burns Anxiety Inventory and Burns Depression Checklist. Anxiety and depression levels were significantly higher among music majors, and there was a strong, positive relationship between anxiety and depression. Regardless of major, self-reports were not affected by year in school. Implications for additional mental health resources and strategies for improving music major health and self-care are discussed, along with a need for increased music faculty awareness of perceived anxiety and depression leading to modified programs of study.
Converging enactivisms: radical enactivism meets linguistic bodies
Authors: Rolla Giovanni , Huffermann Jeferson
Published: June 2021

We advance a critical examination of two recent branches of the enactivist research program, namely, Radically Enactive Cognition and Linguistic Bodies. We argue that, although these approaches may look like diverging views within the wider enactivist program, when appraised in a conciliatory spirit, they can be interpreted as developing converging ideas. We examine how the notion of know-how figures in them to show an important point of convergence, namely, that the normativity of human cognitive capacities rests on shared know-how. Radical enactivism emphasizes the diachronic dimension of shared know-how, and linguistic bodies emphasize the synchronic one. Given that know-how is a normative notion, it is subject to success conditions. We then argue it implies basic content, which is the content of the successful ongoing interactions between agent(s) and environment. Basic content does not imply accuracy conditions and representational content, so it evades Hutto and Myin’s Hard Problem of Content. Moreover, this account is amenable to the central claim by Di Paolo et al. that the participatory sense-making relations at play in linguistic exchanges are explained in continuity with explanations of biological organization and sensorimotor engagements.
Revisiting Middle-Class Consumers in Africa: A Cross-Country City-Based Investigation Outlining Implications for International Marketers
Authors: Chikweche Tendai , Lappeman James , Egan Paul
Published: June 2021

This article reports on a cross-country city-based investigation that profiles the middle class in Africa and distinguishes discrete segments that demonstrate the importance of heterogeneity when studying the middle class. The authors identify three distinct middle-class segments by administering both qualitative and quantitative questionnaires across ten cities. They explore consumer behavior–related factors, such as lifestyle and purchasing, to answer calls to provide more marketing insight into the African middle class. The discussion also outlines theoretical and managerial implications.
Why Retractions of Numerical Misinformation Fail: The Anchoring Effect of Inaccurate Numbers in the News
Authors: Stubenvoll Marlis , Matthes Jörg
Published: June 2021

Numbers can convey critical information about political issues, yet statistics are sometimes cited incorrectly by political actors. Drawing on real-world examples of numerical misinformation, the current study provides a first test of the anchoring bias in the context of news consumption. Anchoring describes how evidently wrong and even irrelevant numbers might change people’s judgments. Results of a survey experiment with a sample of N = 413 citizens indicate that even when individuals see a retraction and distrust the presented misinformation, they stay biased toward the initially seen inaccurate number.
A finite-element discretization of some boundary value problems for nonlinear strain-limiting elastic bodies
Authors: Yoon Hyun C. , Mallikarjunaiah S. M.
Published: June 2021

It is well known that the linearized theory of elasticity admits the logically inconsistent solution of singular strains when applied to certain naive models of fracture while the theory is a first-order approximation to finite elasticity in the asymptotic limit of infinitesimal displacement gradient. Meanwhile, the strain-limiting models, a special subclass of nonlinear implicit constitutive relations, predict uniformly bounded strain in the whole material body including at the strain-concentrator such as a crack tip or reentrant corner. Such a nonlinear approximation cannot be possible within the standard linearization procedure of either Cauchy or Green elasticity. In this work, we examine a finite-element discretization for several boundary value problems to study the state of stress–strain in the solid body of which response is described by a nonlinear strain-limiting theory of elasticity. The problems of notches, oriented cracks, and an interface crack in anti-plane shear are analyzed. The numerical results indicate that the linearized strain remains below a value that can be fixed a priori, therefore, ensuring the validity of the nonlinear model. In addition, we find high stress values in the neighborhood of the crack tip in every example, thereby suggesting that the crack tip acts as a singular energy sink for a stationary crack. We also calculate the stress intensity factor (SIF) in this study. The computed value of SIF in the nonlinear strain-limiting model is corresponding to that of the classical linear model, and thereby providing a tenet for a possible local criterion for fracture. The framework of strain-limiting theories, within which the linearized strain bears a nonlinear relationship with the stress, can provide a rational basis for developing physically meaningful models to study a crack evolution in elastic solids.
Staying in Crisis: Choice or Coercion a Review of the Reasons of Rural-to-Urban Migrations Due to Environmental Changes in Iranian Villages
Authors: Mohammadi Soheil , Khanian Mojtaba
Published: June 2021

Widespread environmental changes as well as economic events and factors have contributed significantly to migrations from and relocations of human settlements during the past years. Being in direct contact with natural environments, rural settlements have been on the forefront of dealing with these changes. The impacts are more tangible in developing countries, including Iran, which face numerous socioeconomic and management challenges. Despite this, a number of the residents of rural settlements refuse to migrate and decide to stay in their current place of living despite economic and environmental hardships. In this respect, the present research aims to investigate the reasons of this decision among the “trapped” populations by studying two villages of Famenin County in Iran, namely Amirabad and Jahanabad, using the qualitative methodology in the form of field interviews with the residents. The results indicate that while “employment,” “accommodation,” and “poverty” are the three main drivers, which contribute to the villagers’ decision for not migrating in general, social capital and psychological attachment are considered impactful drivers for not migrating among older villagers or those with a longer history of rural residence.
Toward a multidimensional streaming: A thematic case study of two Twitch channels
Authors: Obreja Dragoș M
Published: June 2021

The number of views and streamers of streaming channels is constantly growing, and Twitch seems to be the streaming platform par excellence to confirm this. Thus, using a constructivist approach, the main purpose of this article was to outline a thematic case study based on two streaming channels. Using qualitative content analysis of live chat comments ( n = 215), and also semi-structured interviews ( n = 31), findings indicate four major themes: (1) environment for the self-esteem shows that both the streamer and the viewers resort to various attempts to improve the other’s self-esteem when necessary; (2) systemic gender discrimination shows that while forms of discrimination on live chats are rather subtle and “regulatory,” there are also rare but overt forms of aggression; (3) ambiguous collective writing establishes that the differences between spamming and trolling are predominantly contextual; while (4) situational feedback for the streamer is mainly characterized by either irony or advice to the streamer.
Design of an auxetic cellular structure with different elastic properties in its three orthogonal directions
Authors: Valle Rodrigo , Pincheira Gonzalo , Tuninetti Víctor
Published: June 2021

Auxetic structures have become one of the most studied types of cellular structure in recent years, thanks to their highly specific mechanical properties. Most microstructures are designed with homogeneous properties in their main axes; however, in this research, we propose an innovative asymmetric 3D auxetic structure based on a 2D configuration of cells drawn from the literature. The new auxetic cell is designed by topology analysis using classical Timoshenko beam theory. To validate the design, samples were constructed by fused filament fabrication with ABSplus, and tested under quasi-static compression to determine Young's modulus in the three orthogonal directions. The experimental results show good agreement with the topological analysis and reveal that the proposed cell can transmit a different mechanical behavior to the macrostructure in its three orthogonal directions.
Comprehensive management of Crouzon syndrome: A case report with three-year follow-up
Authors: Tripathi Tulika , Srivastava Dhirendra , Bhutiani Neha , Rai Priyank
Published: June 2021

Crouzon syndrome is one of the most common craniosynostosis facial syndromes caused by a mutation in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) gene. Less commonly, there is a mutation of the FGFR3 gene which results in Crouzon syndrome syndrome with acanthosis nigricans. It involves the premature fusion of sutures of the cranial vault, base, orbital and maxillary region. The clinical presentation of this congenital deformity depends on the pattern and timing of sutural fusion. The present report describes the features and management of this syndrome in an 18-year-old woman. The patient presented with a hypoplastic maxilla, deficient midface, exorbitism due to shallow orbits, severe crowding and bilateral crossbite. A multidisciplinary approach involving orthodontics and surgical intervention with distraction osteogenesis brought about marked improvement in the facial profile, occlusion and upper airway. The aesthetics and function were greatly enhanced, and the results were found to be stable at the end of three years.
‘You can’t just put somebody in a situation with no armour’. An ethnographic exploration of the training and support needs of homecare workers caring for people living with dementia
Authors: Leverton Monica , Burton Alexandra , Beresford-Dent Jules , Rapaport Penny , Manthorpe Jill , Mansour Hassan , Guerra Ceballos Stefanny , Downs Murna , Samus Quincy , Dow Briony , Lord Kathryn , Cooper Claudia
Published: June 2021

Background

Homecare workers carry out complex work with people living with dementia, while under-supported, undervalued and undertrained. In this ethnographic study, we explore the skills, training and support needs of homecare workers supporting people living with dementia.

Research Design and Methods

We conducted 82 interviews with people living with dementia ( n = 11), family caregivers ( n = 22), homecare staff ( n = 30) and health and social care professionals ( n = 19) and conducted 100-hours of participant observations with homecare workers ( n = 16). We triangulated interview and observational findings and analysed data thematically.

Results

We developed four themes: 1) ‘Navigating the homecare identity and role’: describing challenges of moving between different role identities and managing associated expectations, 2) ‘Developing and utilising relational and emotional skills’: boundaries between caring and getting emotionally involved felt blurred and difficult to manage, 3) ‘Managing clients who resist care’: homecare workers experienced clients’ reactions as challenging and felt “thrown to the wolves” without sufficient training, and 4) ‘Drawing on agency and team support’: homecare work could be isolating, with no shared workplace, busy schedules and limited opportunity for peer support.

Discussion and Implications

It is important that training and support for homecare workers addresses the relational, emotional and rights-based aspects of the role. Where a flexible, responsive, person-centred service is required, corresponding training and support is needed, alongside organisational practices, taking account of the broader context of the homecare sector.
Container ship emission estimation model for the concept of green port in Turkey
Authors: Ekmekçioğlu Araks , Ünlügençoğlu Kaan , Çelebi Uğur Buğra
Published: June 2021

Studies on the global climate change and the measures to be taken to alleviate the problem have long emphasized the critical importance of this issue for humanity’s future. The impact of exhaust gas emissions from maritime transport on air quality and global climate change is also examined by scientists. In particular, the restrictions imposed by the law-makers like International Maritime Organization (IMO) and European Union (EU) on maritime shipping to improve air quality requires flag states, ships, ship owners and seamen to reduce ship emissions. In this study, Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), Particulate Matter (PM) and Carbon Monoxide (CO) emissions of ships coming to Turkey’s four important ports (Ambarlı, Izmir, Mersin and Kocaeli ports) are theoretically calculated with two bottom-up methods. Port durations and ship technical data are the real data obtained by following the ships coming to all ports for 1-year period. Based on the emission calculations for all ports, container vessels, which are the most common vessel types, were selected and emission estimation models were obtained for cruising, maneuvering and port operating modes depending on the type and gross tonnage (GRT) of these vessels. The emission estimation models obtained from the study can be used to estimate approximate exhaust gas emissions from container ships with known GRT values and to model ship-based air pollution. When the average error margins are analyzed, it was estimated with 2.03% error in cruising mode, 1.63% in maneuvering mode and 9.44% in port mode for container ships according to the GRT in the ports of Turkey.
From “Ghettoization” to a Field of Its Own: A Comprehensive Review of Street Harassment Research
Authors: Fileborn Bianca , O’Neill Tully
Published: June 2021

Street harassment represents one of the most pervasive forms of sexual violence. While it is commonly understood as a gender-based harm, it also intersects with racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, and other forms of abuse. Although it is rarely responded to through government policy, research illustrates that street harassment can have profoundly negative impacts of those who experience it. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current “state of the field” of street harassment research. We undertook two extensive searches of the EBSCO Discovery database in 2015 and 2020, followed by the use of reference snowballing and a Google Scholar search in order to triangulate results. Studies included in the sample were published in English, peer-reviewed and centrally focused on street harassment. Dissertations and nongovernmental organization reports were also included due to the small number of studies in this field. One hundred eighty-two sources were included in the final sample. Findings show that publications on this topic have increased substantially across the two reviews. We provide a thematic overview of key research findings to date and argue throughout that current research suffers from conceptual and typological slippage and does not consistently take into account the need for an intersectional analysis. We close with suggestions for future directions in research and practice, given the emergent nature of the field.
An Adapted Process and Organ Procurement Perspective on Heart Retransplantation for a Healthy Heart’s Third Life
Authors: Nethercot Darryl C. , Shah Mita , Stocks Lisa M. , Trageser Jeffrey M. , Pretorius Victor , Morris Gerald P.
Published: June 2021

As organ procurement organizations nationwide see an increased opportunity to retransplant already transplanted hearts, we would like to share the overview and process of our 2 successful cases. Heart retransplantation increased our cardiac placement rates by 2.64% and 2% in 2015 and 2019, respectively. Spread across a nation that sees over 3500 heart placements annually, a 2% increase would be substantial. Since 2009, our cases stand as the only documented heart retransplantations in the United States. However, United Network for Organ Sharing data shows that potential exists. From a facilitation perspective, we have developed a protocol to ease the matching process. From a surgical perspective, these cases had no complications and saved 2 lives, with each heart now beating in a third person. We hope that by sharing our process and success, we can familiarize fellow organ procurement organizations and transplant communities with this viable opportunity.
Systematic analysis of molecular characterization and clinical relevance of m6A regulators in digestive system pan-cancers
Authors: Kou Tiankuo , Chai Ruizhi , Jin Lan , Bai Zhigang , Yang Yun , Zhao Yongtian , Wu Dongfang , Zhang Zhongtao , Yang Yingchi
Published: June 2021

Digestive system tumors, which mainly include esophagus, stomach, colorectum, liver, pancreas, bile duct, and some other tumors, often have a poor prognosis. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has critical functions in development and tumorigenesis and may help improve the molecular mechanisms of digestive system tumors. However, current understanding of the reconstitution of m6A in digestive system tumors is far from comprehensive. Herein, this study systematically analyzed multi-layered genomic characteristics and clinical relevance of m6A regulators in 1906 patients involving seven digestive system tumor types. We discovered that m6A regulators showed extensive genetic changes and highly consistent expression regulation. The m6A expression was closely related to the activity of cancer pathways. At the same time, we also identified m6A regulators significantly related to the common cancer pathways of digestive system tumors and specific cancer pathways of digestive tract and digestive glands. These cancer pathways may explain the prognostic differences of patients with digestive tract tumors. In addition, m6A regulators demonstrated strong potential in prognostic stratification and drug development, especially in multiple research cohorts on pancreatic cancer, pointing to a strong prognostic stratification capability of m6A regulators. Finally, a m6A scoring model significantly related to highly active ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, mismatch repair, cell cycle, ebasal transcription factors was constructed and had a strong prognostic stratification ability in digestive gland tumors. The score showed a significant negative correlation with the tumor immune microenvironment. This study demonstrated that the similarities and difference of the action mechanism m6A regulators in the digestive tract and digestive gland tumor progression could guide potential drug development.
Chinatowns Lost? The Birth and Death of Urban Neighborhoods in an American City
Authors: Zipp Daniel Yoder
Published: June 2021

This article historicizes and links the ways in which ethnically segregated neighborhoods are born and die in American cities. Based on a historical ethnography of five Chinatowns in Los Angeles from 1850 to 1950, I highlight Chinese residents’ agency in both the birth and death of their own neighborhoods through a process called neighborhood architomy. Chinese residents split off new neighborhoods from dying neighborhoods while maintaining their institutions and memories, showing how neighborhood death and birth are intimately intertwined. To understand either process fully, we must treat neighborhoods and their residents as sociological and historical agents at both the birth and death of neighborhoods.
Early Outcomes of the First 200 US Patients Treated with Impella 5.5: A Novel Temporary Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Ramzy Danny , Anderson Mark , Batsides George , Ono Masahiro , Silvestry Scott , D’Alessandro David A. , Funamoto Masaki , Zias Elias A. , Lemaire Anthony , Soltese Edward
Published: June 2021

Objective

To report the initial clinical experience with the Impella 5.5® with SmartAssist®, a temporary left ventricular assist device that provides up to 6.2 L/min forward flow, with recent FDA approval for up to 14 days.

Methods

From October 2019 to March 2020, 200 patients at 42 US centers received the Impella 5.5 and entered into the IQ registry, a manufacturer-maintained quality database that captures limited baseline/procedural characteristics and outcomes through device explant. Post hoc subgroup analyses were conducted to assess the role of baseline and procedural characteristics on survival, defined as successful device weaning or bridge to durable therapy.

Results

Median patient age was 62 years (range, 13 to 83 years); 83.4% were male. The device was most commonly used for cardiomyopathy (45.0%), acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMICS; 29.0%), and post cardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS; 16.5%). Median duration of support was 10.0 days (range, 0.001 to 64.4 days). Through device explant, overall survival was 74.0%, with survival of 80.0%, 67.2%, 57.6%, and 94.7% in cardiomyopathy, AMICS, PCCS, and others (comprising high-risk revascularization, coronary artery bypass graft, electrophysiology/ablation, and myocarditis), respectively. Patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and Impella support (35 patients, 17.5%) had significantly lower survival (51.4% vs 78.8%, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

In the first 200 US patients treated with the Impella 5.5, we observed overall survival to explant of 74%. Survival outcomes were improved compared to historic rates observed with cardiogenic shock, particularly PCCS. Prospective studies assessing comparative performance of this device to conventional strategies are warranted in future.
The Omran Daqneesh imagery from the streets of Aleppo to international front pages: Testimony, politics and emotions
Authors: Mortensen Mette , Grønlykke Mollerup Nina
Published: June 2021

This article studies the virality and assigned iconicity of visual icons by examining the roles and interplays between photographers and other media actors contributing to early phases of making and sharing the Omran Daqneesh images from Aleppo, 2016. We draw on theoretical frameworks concerning the mobilization of iconic imagery in today’s digitalized and globalized media landscape as well the interpretive continuum of documentary evidence and emotional appeal typically applied to iconic imagery of children. Empirically, we take our point of departure in interviews with photographers, NGO workers, editors and journalists involved in facilitating, producing and initially disseminating the Omran Daqneesh imagery, to explore how – in contrast to the seemingly straightforward communication offered by visual icons – they are in effect the result of an intricate interplay between these actors, which in different ways and for different reasons contribute to spreading the images and determining their significance and meaning.
Beach volleyball spike arm swing techniques of Olympics and world championships winners (1996–2019) reveal gender differences
Authors: Giatsis George , Tilp Markus , Hatzimanouil Dimitris , Dieckmann Christoph , Stergiou Nick
Published: June 2021

The spike attack is one of the most important skills in beach volleyball, and as an overarm movement, places significant load on the shoulder joint that could lead to increased risk of injury. An analysis of the different techniques used by elite athletes could provide important insights regarding the etiology of these injuries. This study aimed to assess the spike attack arm swing techniques of Olympics and World Championships (1996-2019) beach volleyball winners and to investigate possible gender differences. Twenty-five male and twenty female winners were assessed on video recordings from eighteen competitions. The different arm swing techniques in the cocking phase (Straight, Bow-and-arrow high, Bow-and-arrow low, Snap, and Circular) were classified by two experts. Intra-rater reliability of both experts (κ = 1.000, P < .001 and κ = .969, P < .001 respectively) and inter-rater reliability (κ = .969, P < .001), assessed by Cohen’s Kappa, were almost perfect. There were significant gender differences in arm swing techniques ( P < .001) with a large size effect (Cramer’s V = .650). The most frequent technique for men was the Bow-and-arrow low (56%) followed by Circular (24%) and Bow-and-arrow high (20%), while for women were the Bow-and-arrow high (30%) and Snap (30%), followed by Bow-and-arrow low (25%) and Straight (15%). The results showed a great variation in arm swing techniques even among world class beach volleyball players as well as significant gender differences, and could allow us to develop interesting hypotheses regarding the mechanisms that could lead to shoulder overuse injuries.
Capture the feeling: Memory practices in between the emotional affordances of heritage sites and digital media
Authors: Bareither Christoph
Published: June 2021

This article develops the concept of emotional affordances, which is first used to describe the capacities of heritage sites to enable, prompt and restrict particular emotional experiences of their visitors. Secondly, the article asks how the emotional affordances of digital media, particularly those taking effect in digital photography and social media practices, allow visitors to mediate the emotional affordances of a particular heritage site. The argument builds on an ethnographic study of visitors’ digital image practices at the ‘Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe’ in Berlin and it demonstrates how visitors ‘capture the feeling’ of the memorial through such practices while also reshaping the experiences the place affords.
Chemical Profile Assessment and Potential Bioactive Component Screening of a Chinese Patent Herbal Drug Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi Granule
Authors: Yuen-Cheung Chan , Jing Zhao , Qin Hu , Hui Guo , Yu-Xi Liu , Jia-Ying Wu , Zhao-Guang Zheng , Zhi-Ling Yu
Published: June 2021

Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi (YSHS) Granule is a well-known patented herbal drug for treating chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) in China. Its chemical compositions and anti-CGN components are not fully understood. This study aimed to establish the chemical profile and to identify the anti-CGN components of YSHS Granule. For these purposes, a HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS method was developed. A total of 105 peaks were detected in the mass spectrum of the Granule. Of these, 99 compounds were tentatively identified as terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, phenols, and other types of compounds, and 15 were further identified with reference substances. To screen bioactive compounds, a cell membrane immobilized chromatography (CMIC) method was used. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged rat glomerular mesangial cells (HBZY-1) were incubated with YSHS Granule (100 μg/mL), and the binding components to the cell membrane were extracted and analyzed using the established HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS method. Seven potential bioactive components that bound to HBZY-1 cell membranes were detected and identified as calycosin-7- O-β-D-glucoside, 6-gingerol, naringin, ginsenoside Re, poncirin, liquiritigenin, and isoliquiritigenin. The outcomes of the present study provide a chemical basis for clinical use of the Granule in managing CGN, and provide quality control markers for the Granule’s production and use.
Media Pluralism and Democratic Consolidation: A Recipe for Success?
Authors: El Issawi Fatima
Published: June 2021

The Tunisian political transition has succeeded in building a working, yet fragile governance beyond ideological and political divides. Political debate across media platforms has become open and dynamic, but the media–politics nexus thrives within a complex system of clientelism forged on shifting alliances between politicians and business tycoons, including recapture by agents of the former regime. The media–politics interplay is taking competitive and antagonistic forms, effectively exacerbating polarized conflicts. This paper reflects on the notions of hybrid media systems, agonistic pluralism, and civic culture, based on data collected in a focus group conducted in Tunis in May 2019 that brought together representatives from media, politics, and civil society complemented by interviews with leading journalists and media stakeholders. This paper argues that the relationship between media and politics is interdependent and marked by confrontation and adaption; the uncertainty of the transition is leading to a complex and volatile power struggle in which neither media nor politics have the upper hand in defining the terms of the game. This ambivalent relationship, taking place within a new system of clientelism, has had a mixed outcome on the process of democratic consolidation.
Hypertonic Dextrose Stimulates Chondrogenic Cells to Deposit Collagen and Proliferate
Authors: Johnston Elisha , Kou Yi , Junge Jason , Chen Lin , Kochan Andrew , Johnston Michael , Rabago David
Published: June 2021

Objective

Hypertonic dextrose (HD) injections (prolotherapy) for osteoarthritis are reported to reduce pain. Cartilage regeneration is hypothesized as a mechanism. This in vitro study identifies an HD concentration that stimulates chondrogenic cells to increase metabolic activity and assesses whether this concentration affects collagen deposition and proliferation.

Design

ATDC5 chondrogenic cells were cultured in normoglycemic DMEM/F12 medium, treated with concentrations of HD (4-400 mM), and assessed with PrestoBlue. Advanced light microscopy was used to conduct live imaging of collagen deposition through second harmonic generation microscopy (SHG) and proliferation via 2-photon excitation microscopy. Proliferation was additionally assessed with hemocytometer counts.

Results

A linear regression model found that, relative to the 4 mM baseline control, cells treated with 200 mM had a higher mean absorbance ( P = 0.023) and cells treated with 250 mM were trending toward a higher mean absorbance ( P = 0.076). Polynomial regression interpolated 240 mM as producing the highest average absorbance. Hemocytometer counts validated 250 mM as stimulating proliferation compared with the 4 mM control ( P < 0.01). A concentration of 250 mM HD led to an increase in collagen deposition compared with that observed in control ( P < 0.05). This HD concentration also led to increases in proliferation of ATDC5 cells relative to that of control ( P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A 250 mM HD solution appears to be associated with increased metabolic activity of chondrocytes, increased collagen deposition, and increased chondrocyte proliferation. These results support clinical prolotherapy research suggesting that intra-articular HD joint injections reduce knee pain. Further study of HD and cellular processes is warranted.
E-learning in the time of COVID-19: Lived experiences of three university teachers from two countries
Authors: Islam Mohammad A , Nur Shakila , Talukder Md. Shahrear
Published: June 2021

This study set out to provide a descriptive yet critical exploration of teachers’ experiences while using e-learning in the context of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Using a qualitative phenomenology research paradigm, the study explored first-hand experiences of three university teachers (hence researchers as well) from two countries, that is, Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. The contexts in which the researchers used e-learning showcased complex, challenging, and dynamic sites, that is, within institutions and individual classrooms. More specifically, the study identified acceptances, struggles, and negotiations at both the macro-level of policy/decision making and the micro-level of online classroom practices. Reflecting on the findings, this article concludes by offering a set of recommendations that might be applicable and useful for similar contexts beyond Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. The researchers argue for developing a context-based, inclusive, and appropriate e-learning policy guideline that could be utilized during the emergency time now and in the near future.
The treadmill of protection: How public finance constrains climate adaptation
Authors: Gray Ian
Published: June 2021

As the physical impacts of the Anthropocene begin to make themselves felt around the globe, maintaining current levels of economic prosperity, in many communities, will consume an increasing portion of public finances. This is because existing investments in property and capital will require new forms of protection if they are to continue generating stable streams of public revenue. Since Anthropocene impacts are unevenly distributed, some territories will be under more pressure than others to shift limited public spending to cope with growing levels of exposure. The sinking of Louisiana’s coastal wetlands provides a clear example of this trend of accelerating local vulnerability due to human-induced environmental change. With the bulk of state revenue tied to activities concentrated along Louisiana’s coasts, the state’s Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority has launched an ambitious plan of government-backed expenditures that seek to defend the economic viability of these zones. Yet, many actions aimed at preventing immediate loss also work to secure incumbent extractive industries, such as offshore oil and gas drilling, which themselves contribute to the very vulnerabilities requiring state intervention in the first place. This paper, borrowing from the environmental sociology of Allan Schnaiberg, considers the social consequences of this dynamic, dubbed the “treadmill of protection.”
A Critical Review of Case Studies on Dissociative Amnesia
Authors: Mangiulli Ivan , Otgaar Henry , Jelicic Marko , Merckelbach Harald
Published: June 2021

Dissociative amnesia, defined as an inability to remember important autobiographical experiences, usually of a stressful nature, is a controversial phenomenon. We systematically reviewed 128 case studies of dissociative amnesia reported in 60 articles that appeared in peer-reviewed journals in English over the past 20 years (2000–2020). Our aim was to examine to what extent these cases met core features of dissociative amnesia. All cases were about reports of autobiographical memory loss, but the evidence offered in support of a dissociative amnesia interpretation was often weak and plagued by an ambiguous heterogeneity with respect to nature, etiology, and differential diagnoses of alleged memory loss. Most case studies failed to rule out plausible alternative explanations of dissociative amnesia, such as ordinary forgetting and malingering. We encourage clinicians and researchers to more critically investigate alleged cases of dissociative amnesia and provide criteria for how a dissociative amnesia case ideally would look like.
Branding of Government Services: Benefits and Challenges
Authors: Reghunathan Aravind
Published: June 2021

Till recently, brand management was perceived as a function exclusive to commercial organizations. However, the experiences of several nations have shown that branding can be an effective tool for managing government services also. This paper discusses the benefits of the current practices of branding in governance. A coherent branding strategy assists the departments in the formulation and delivery of services by having clarity of purpose and consistency in communication. The citizen benefits in various ways from a streamlined execution of the strategy. The paper also identifies the challenges for brand management to grow in the governance sphere.
Postamputation Residual Limb Pain Severity and Prevalence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Evans Adam G. , Chaker Sara C. , Curran Gabrielle E. , Downer Mauricio A. , Assi Patrick E. , Joseph Jeremy T. , Kassis Salam Al , Thayer Wesley P.
Published: June 2021

Background: Individuals with an extremity amputation are predisposed to persistent pain that reduces their quality of life. Residual limb pain is defined as pain that is felt in the limb after amputation. Methods: A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-compliant systematic review of 5 databases from inception to June 2020 was performed and is registered under the PROSPERO ID: CRD42020199297. Included studies were clinical trials with residual limb pain assessed at a minimum follow-up of 1 week. Meta-analyses of residual limb pain prevalence and severity were performed with subgroups of extremity and amputation etiology. Results: Twenty clinical trials met criteria and reported on a total of 1347 patients. Mean patient ages ranged from 38 to 77. Residual limb pain prevalence at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively, was 50%, 11%, 23%, 27%, 22%, and 24%. Mean residual limb pain severity at the 6 months or longer follow-up was 4.19 out of 10 for cancer amputations, 2.70 for traumatic amputations, 0.47 for vasculopathy amputations, 1.01 for lower extremity amputations, and 3.56 for upper extremity amputations. Conclusions: Residual limb pain severity varies according to the etiology of amputation and is more common after upper extremity amputation than lower extremity amputations. The most severe pain is reported by patients undergoing amputations due to cancer, followed by traumatic amputations, while vascular amputation patients report lower pain severity. Promising methods of reducing long-term pain are preoperative pain control, nerve or epidural blocks, use of memantine, calcitonin-containing blocks, and prophylactic nerve coaptations.
Consumer Purchasing Behaviour Towards Strategic Innovation Management Practices in Morocco During COVID-19 Health Crisis
Authors: Zaoui Soukaina , Hamou-ou-Brahim Safae Ait , Zhou Haiwei , Omrane Amina , Huang Dechun
Published: June 2021

The global economy has been affected as a result of the unusual circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak and the restrictive measures taken by governments to contain the crisis. As a result, in order to survive such turmoil, sustain their economic outputs and adapt to change, companies have been invited, and even forced, to innovate. The present study aims at contributing to a better understating of the impacts of strategic innovation management (SIM) practices implemented into a company (i.e., its innovative strategy and culture, product innovation, technological capability, and customer and supplier relationships) on the consumer purchasing behaviour (CPB) in the context of COVID-19 global crisis. Data were gathered from a sample of 57 Moroccan companies operating with international management styles and working according to the standards of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Then, the structural equation model (SEM) method was employed to test the proposed hypothesis of the theoretical model. The conclusive results revealed that SIM practices have a significant influence on a company’s CPB, essentially via the adoption of an innovative strategy. Therefore, CPB is likely to be upgraded whenever companies seek for improving the implementation of successful SIM practices.
Supporting Healthy Aging through the Scale-Up, Spread, and Sustainability of Assistive Technology Implementation: A Rapid Realist Review of Participatory Co-Design for Assistive Technology with Older Adults
Authors: Carroll Simon , Kobayashi Karen , Cervantes Matilde N. , Freeman Shannon , Saini Manik , Tracey Shannon
Published: June 2021

Objective: To identify the key mechanisms, contexts, and outcomes that drive the successful participatory co-design of assistive technologies. Method: A rapid realist review was conducted using a systematic search strategy. After screening, a final set of 28 articles were included. Articles were analyzed for evidence relevant to our initial program theory (IPT), and context-mechanism-outcome configurations were developed, resulting in a revised program theory. Results: All 28 articles included were highly relevant to the IPT, and had sufficient detail regarding the process of participatory co-design. The findings of this review highlight several key context-mechanism-outcome configurations as potential patterns in the data under the two dimensions of the evolving program theory: knowledge integration and the ethico-political dimension. Discussion: This review revealed the key mechanisms of mutual awareness, mutual learning, trust, and reciprocity that need to be taken into account in AT development and assessment. We concluded that participatory co-design requires a restructuring of power relations between end-users and those traditionally in control of technology design. These findings inform the development and assessment of AT for older adults and help guide policy/decision-makers to move forward with the now urgent agenda for scale-up and spread, initiated by the burning platform of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction correlates with microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis patients
Authors: Masini Francesco , Galiero Raffaele , Pafundi Pia Clara , Gjeloshi Klodian , Pinotti Emanuele , Ferrara Roberta , Romano Ciro , Adinolfi Luigi Elio , Sasso Ferdinando Carlo , Cuomo Giovanna
Published: June 2021

Objectives:

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy is among the known cardiovascular complications of systemic sclerosis and may affect the whole prognosis of the disease. The aim of our study was to assess cardiac autonomic neuropathy prevalence in our cohort of systemic sclerosis patients and compare its main features with clinical and epidemiological data, particularly with the severity of microvascular damage, as detected by nailfold videocapillaroscopy.

Methods:

Twenty-six patients with definite systemic sclerosis were consecutively enrolled at our outpatient rheumatology clinic. All patients underwent physical examination, nailfold videocapillaroscopy, and autonomic neuropathy diagnostic tests (orthostatic hypotension test, deep breathing test, lying-to-standing, and Valsalva maneuvers).

Results:

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy prevalence was 50% (13 cases). On univariate analysis, cardiac autonomic neuropathy was shown to be significantly associated with an active pattern on nailfold videocapillaroscopy (odds ratio 5.86, 95% confidence interval 1.59–9.24; p = 0.032), whereas anti-Scl-70 positivity (odds ratio, 0.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.03–2.12; p = 0.049) and C-reactive protein (odds ratio, 19.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.79–56.71; p = 0.036) reached only a borderline statistical association. The time-dependent Cox multivariate regression model showed cardiac autonomic neuropathy development to be independently associated with an active pattern on nailfold videocapillaroscopy (odds ratio, 7.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.87–8.96; p = 0.042) and anti-Scl-70 positivity (odds ratio, 5.92; 95% confidence interval, 1.06–18.43; p = 0.048).

Conclusions:

Severe microvascular damage, as detected by nailfold videocapillaroscopy, may suggest the coexistence of autonomic dysfunction and should be considered as a red flag for the identification of patients particularly at risk of cardiac morbidity and mortality.
“How on earth did this happen?” The relationship of practical consciousness and institutional evolution
Authors: Goldenstein Jan , Walgenbach Peter
Published: June 2021

Institutional theory assumes that actors’ reflexivity—their discursive consciousness—is the precondition that enables institutional change. We argue that such focus on discursive consciousness disregards one elementary source of institutional change: practical consciousness—the domain of nonreflective cognitive processes. Our article offers a major contribution to the literature: By elaborating the important difference between discursive consciousness and practical consciousness, we contribute to the theorization of the cognitive apparatus of actors in institutional theory. We apply this theorization to highlight institutional evolution as a previously unnoticed mode of institutional change that explains why, and how, institutions change in a nonreflective way. We also provide implications for the ways in which our work might stimulate future empirical research.