bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical, Biochemical, and Molecular Characterization of Indian Children with Clinically Suspected Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome
Authors: Kumar Anil , Sharma Rajni , Faruq Mohammed , Kumar Manoj , Sharma Shilpa , Werner Ralf , Hiort Olaf , Vandana Jain
Published: October 2021

This study describes the clinical, biochemical, and molecular characteristics of Indian children with 46,XY DSD and suspected androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS). Fifty children (median age 3.0 years, range 0–16.5 years) with 46,XY DSD and a suspected diagnosis of AIS were enrolled. Sanger sequencing was performed to identify pathogenic variants in the androgen receptor (AR) gene and to study genotype-phenotype correlations. All 5 (100%) patients with CAIS and 14/45 (31%) patients with PAIS had pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in the AR gene (overall, 14 different variants in 19 patients; 38.8%). There was no significant difference in clinical (cryptorchidism, hypospadias, or external masculinizing score) or biochemical parameters (gonadotropins and testosterone) between patients with or without pathogenic variants. However, patients with AIS were more likely to have a positive family history, be assigned female gender at birth, and present with gynaecomastia at puberty. Three novel pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants, including one splice donor site variant c.2318+1G>A, one frameshift variant p.H790Lfs*40, and one missense variant p.G821E, were identified in 3 patients with CAIS. The missense variant p.G821E was predicted as deleterious, damaging, disease-causing, and likely functionally inactive by in silico analysis and protein modelling study. Two previously not reported pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants, including p.R386H and p.G396R, were identified in patients with PAIS. This study contributes in expanding the spectrum of pathogenic variants in the AR gene in patients with AIS. Only 31% patients with a provisional diagnosis of PAIS had pathogenic variants in the AR gene, suggesting other possible mechanisms or candidate genes may be responsible for such a phenotypic presentation.
Does Rectocele Repair Combined with Other Perineal Surgeries Affect Outcome Compared to Solo Rectocele Repair?
Authors: Li Wanglin , Wu Zixin , Ozuner Gokhan
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Rectocele is common in female patients. To date, there is no literature comparing outcomes of rectocele repairs in combination with other perineal surgeries. We aim to analyze perioperative morbidity and mortality as well as long-term outcome of rectocele repair in combination with other perineal surgeries (RR combination) and compare this with solo rectocele repair (solo RR). Design: The type of study was case-control. Data of patients who received solo rectocele repair or rectocele repair in combination with other perineal surgeries between January 2011 and December 2015 were identified and reviewed in a prospectively maintained and IRB-approved database. Ninety-eight patients were included, including 41 patients in the solo RR group and 57 patients in the RR combination group. The demographics, characteristics of patients, short-term complications, long-term complications, and morbidity of the 2 groups were observed. Methods: The demographics, characteristics of patients, short-term complications, long-term complications, and morbidity of the 2 groups were compared, respectively. Covariate adjustment was analyzed by multivariate logistic and Cox regression analysis. Results: Ninety-eight patients with a median age of 57 were included, involving 41 patients in the solo RR group and 57 patients in the RR combination group. Other than the operative approach (p < 0.01), demographics and preoperative characteristics of the 2 groups were comparable. All variables, including length of stay, estimated blood loss, self-limiting rectal bleeding, transfusion, urinary retention, rectal stricture, rectal and perineal infection, rectovaginal abscess, reoperation, effective resolution of obstructive defecation symptoms, residual symptoms rate, and recurrence rate, were comparable among the 2 groups except for operative time (p = 0.03). Limitations: This study is a single-center study, which may cause bias. In addition, the sample size is limited. Staging of rectocele and routine imaging studies were not performed. Conclusions: Rectocele repair in combination with other perineal surgeries is feasible, and outcomes are comparable with solo rectocele repair. Transanal versus transvaginal repairs appear to have no influence on outcomes.
Prehospital Whole Blood Transfusion Programs in Norway
Authors: Bjerkvig Christopher Kalhagen , Strandenes Geir , Hervig Tor , Sunde Geir Arne , Apelseth Torunn Oveland
Published: October 2021

Background: Prehospital management of severe hemorrhage has evolved significantly in Norwegian medical emergency services in the last 10 years. Treatment algorithms for severe bleeding were previously focused on restoration of the blood volume by administration of crystalloids and colloids, but now the national trauma system guidelines recommend early balanced transfusion therapy according to remote damage control resuscitation principles. Materials and Methods: This survey describes the implementation, utilization, and experience of the use of low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) and blood components in air ambulance services in Norway. Medical directors from all air ambulance bases in Norway as well as the blood banks that support LTOWB were invited to participate. Results: Medical directors from all 13 helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) bases, the 7 search and rescue (SAR) helicopter bases, and the 4 blood banks that support HEMS with LTOWB responded to the survey. All HEMS and SAR helicopter services carry LTOWB or blood components. Four of 20 (20%) HEMS bases have implemented LTOWB. A majority of services (18/20, 90%) have a preference for LTOWB, primarily because LTOWB enables early balanced transfusion and has logistical benefits in time-critical emergencies and during prolonged evacuations. Conclusion: HEMS services and blood banks report favorable experiences in the implementation and utilization of LTOWB. Prehospital balanced blood transfusion using whole blood is feasible in Norway.
Pleuraerguss bei Patienten mit Psoriasis-Arthritis: An Nebenwirkungen von TNF-α-Blockern denken
Authors: Keymel Stefanie
Published: October 2021

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with psoriasis. Pulmonary involvement is a rare extraarticular manifestation of the disease characterized by rigidity of the chest wall and apical pulmonary fibrosis. Pleural effusion is uncommon in PsA. We present four cases of patients with PsA who developed pleural effusions. We report for the first time a PsA patient who was drug-naïve and developed unilateral pleuritis. We also describe one PsA case with pleuritis while he was on methotrexate (MTX) and two PsA cases on tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. The literature review revealed six cases with pleural effusion, which were drug-induced. These patients presented pleural effusions while they were treated with MTX (2 patients) and TNF inhibitors (4 patients). In PsA patients with pleuritis, a detailed investigation to rule out infections is necessary. In addition, increased pharmacovigilance will detect cases of drug-induced serositis.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome Induced by Hypomagnesemia due to Clostridium Difficile in a Patient with Kidney Transplant
Authors: Alsultan Mohammad , Hassan Qussai
Published: October 2021

Hypomagnesemia is found in 12% of hospitalized patients and up to 60% of intensive care unit patients and is associated with a variety of organ dysfunction. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome is a neurologic hyperperfusion disorder that mostly affects posterior portions of the brain. Various theories were proposed to explain whether hypomagnesemia is etiology or associated with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). A patient with kidney transplantation suffered from fatigue and reduced urine output due to chronic diarrhea induced by Clostridium difficile. Hypoparathyroidism in addition to persistent hypocalcemia and hypokalemia was observed and suggested magnesium depletion with normal serum levels. Thereafter, the status was complicated with delirium, seizures, and coma. Neurological status rapidly improved after adding intravenous magnesium sulfate to antiepileptic drugs. The second magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed vasogenic edema compatible with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Therefore, magnesium depletion, with normal serum levels, was considered the most implicated etiology of the syndrome in this patient. Also, hypomagnesemia during the acute phase of the syndrome and excluding all other etiology support this theory. Our case highlights hypomagnesemia-induced PRES, despite the normal serum level. Serum magnesium dropped during the acute phase of PRES, and magnesium should be maintained at the high normal limit, regardless of normal serum level. MRI findings might present after few days of symptoms; this might delay appropriate treatment.
Prognostic Impact of Pancoronary Quantitative Flow Ratio Assessment in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Erbay Aslihan , Penzel Lisa , Abdelwahed Youssef S. , Klotsche Jens , Heuberger Andrea , Schatz Anne-Sophie , Steiner Julia , Haghikia Arash , Sinning David , Fröhlich Georg M. , Landmesser Ulf , Stähli Barbara E. , Leistner David M.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Quantitative flow ratio (QFR) has been introduced as a novel angiography-based modality for fast hemodynamic assessment of coronary artery lesions and validated against fractional flow reserve. This study sought to define the prognostic role of pancoronary QFR assessment in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) including postinterventional culprit and nonculprit vessels.

Methods:

In a total of 792 patients with ACS (48.6% ST-segment–elevation ACS and 51.4% non–ST-segment–elevation ACS), QFR analyses of postinterventional culprit (n=792 vessels) and nonculprit vessels (n=1231 vessels) were post hoc performed by investigators blinded to clinical outcomes. The follow-up comprised of major adverse cardiovascular events, including all-cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and ischemia-driven coronary revascularization within 2 years after the index ACS event.

Results:

Major adverse cardiovascular events as composite end point occurred in 99 patients (12.5%). QFR with an optimal cutoff value of 0.89 for postinterventional culprit vessels and 0.85 for nonculprit vessels emerged as independent predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events after ACS (nonculprit arteries: adjusted odds ratio, 3.78 [95% CI, 2.21–6.45],
P
<0.001 and postpercutaneous coronary intervention culprit arteries: adjusted odds ratio, 3.60 [95% CI, 2.09–6.20],
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

The present study for the first time demonstrates the prognostic implications of a pancoronary angiography-based functional lesion assessment in patients with ACS. Hence, QFR offers a novel tool to advance risk stratification and guide therapeutic management after ACS.
Being Formal without Being a Formalist
Authors: Gibson Steve
Published: October 2021

This article argues for the value of using formal models within the (digital media) artwork. Eschewing the antiformalism common to much of postmodernism, it argues for a more active engagement with formal concerns. Without embracing the totalizing theories of late modernist formalism, or discarding the idea of “the concept,” the author argues for a more formal approach to the making of the (digital media) artwork. The goal is to point to models that can be used to intimately connect form and concept rather than treat them as separate or warring entities. The article critically explores three very specific digital media artworks that endeavor to bridge the gap between formalism and conceptualism, each pointing to indicative (but not exhaustive) methods for reuniting form and concept.
Improvement of the Mechanical Properties for CO2 Reducing Mortar Using Porous Feldspar and Hydrogen Nano-Bubble Water
Authors: Kim Jin , Kim Young-Ho , Lee Jong-Young , Han Jung-Geun
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTThe modern society is a world made of concrete. Many buildings, ports, dams, and other infrastructure are made of concrete. Concrete is mainly composed of aggregate and cement. It is mixed with blended water and used after curing. This study used porous feldspar known
to react well with cement to replace fine aggregate and reduce cement content. Although feldspar mortar reduced cement content by 5% (25%–>20%), the compressive strength increased 1.4 to 2.9 times compared to its counterpart, Ready-Mixed Mortar (RMM). Using Hydrogen Nano-Bubble Water
(HNBW) as blended water, compressive strength was increased from 7% to a maximum of 23%. This proved that hydrogen nano-bubble water could promote cement hydrate creation and reaction. When hydrogen nano-bubble water was used as blended water, thermal conductivity decreased by a maximum of
30% compared to the use of plain water as blended water. Results of this study indicate that construction materials with improved thermal efficiency could be developed.
Thunder Hours: How Old Methods Offer New Insights into Thunderstorm Climatology
Authors: DiGangi Elizabeth A. , Stock Michael , Lapierre Jeff
Published: October 2021

Lightning data are often used to measure the location and intensity of thunderstorms. This study presents 5 years of data from the Earth Networks Global Lightning Detection Network (ENGLN) in the form of thunder hours. A thunder hour is defined as an hour during which thunder can be heard from a given location, and thunder hours can be calculated for the entire globe. Thunder hours are an intuitive measure of thunderstorm frequency where the 1-h interval corresponds to the life-span of most thunderstorms, and the hourly temporal resolution of the data also represents long-lived systems well. Flash-density-observing systems are incredibly useful, but they have some drawbacks that limit how they can be used to quantify global thunderstorm activity on a climatological scale: flash density distributions derived from satellite observations must sacrifice a great deal of their spatial resolution in order to capture the diurnal convective cycle, and the detection efficiencies of ground-based lightning detection systems are not uniform in space or constant in time. Examining convective patterns in the context of thunder hours lends insight into thunderstorm activity without being heavily influenced by network performance, making thunder hours particularly useful for studying thunderstorm climatology. The ENGLN thunder hour dataset offers powerful utility to climatological studies involving lightning and thunderstorms. This study first shows that the ENGLN thunder hours dataset is very consistent with past measurements of global thunderstorm activity and the global electric circuit using only 5 years of data. Then, this study showcases thunder anomaly fields, designed to be analogous to temperature anomalies, which can be used to diagnose changes in thunderstorm frequency relative to the long-term mean in both time and space.
Preparation of sodium alginate/polyvinyl alcohol composite nanofiber membranes for adsorption of dyes
Authors: Jiang Xiaodong , Sang Caixia , Wang Jiankun , Guo Jing
Published: October 2021

In this research, electrospinning was used to prepare sodium alginate (SA)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite nanofiber membranes. Effects of electrospinning parameters on the morphology and fiber diameter were investigated, and an orthogonal design was chosen to optimize the parameters. The optimized nanofiber membranes were applied as an adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue (MB), basic fuchsin (BF), and methyl orange (MO). Kinetic and isotherm of adsorption and effects of different experimental conditions such as pH, contact time, and initial dye concentration on adsorption capacity were investigated. It was found that the optimum parameters for the nanofiber membranes were SA/PVA blend ratios (3:7), electric field strength (20 kV), flow rate (0.05 mL/h), and distance (12.5 cm) between the syringe needle and collector, and the mean fiber diameter of the optimized membranes was 99.58 nm. The adsorption of nanofiber membranes was well described by the pseudo-second-order adsorption kinetic model and the Langmuir model, indicating that the adsorption mechanism was chemisorption by a monolayer. Based on the Langmuir model, the adsorption capacities for MB, BF, and MO were 9.25 mg/g, 9.02 mg/g, and 7.35 mg/g, respectively.
How does crisis affect the conflict between technocracy and populism? Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Esmark Anders
Published: October 2021

The article focuses on the relationship between technocracy and populism during the first year of the COVID-19 crisis. On one hand, this relationship has been defined by populist denial, displacement of crisis, and rejection of the technocratic consensus on the need for urgent and decisive action in the face of the global pandemic. On the other hand, COVID-19 has also led to convergence between the two sides and populist approximation to technocracy more akin to ‘technopopulist’ compromises and politics. The article shows that this pattern of antagonism and approximation has been shaped by three constitutive features of the state of exception and emergency during the COVID-19 crisis: (1) discursive securitization of the threat, (2) the use of extraordinary tools and measures under the licence of precautionary principle, and (3) institutional concentration of power. While COVID-19 is an extreme case in all three respects, the lessons learned from the pandemic advance our general understanding of technocracy and populism as constitutive features of contemporary politics.
Developmental Trajectories of Adult Romantic Attachment: Assessing the Influence of Observed Interactions With Family of Origin
Authors: Dinero Rachel E. , Donnellan M. Brent , Hart Joshua
Published: October 2021

The present study evaluates longitudinal trajectories of adult romantic attachment during adulthood using latent growth curve modeling. We also tested how observed family interactions were related to trajectories of attachment-related anxiety and avoidance from ages 25 to 31 years (on average). Stability coefficients for attachment variables across 6 years were around .50. Growth modeling results suggested that people tend to become less anxious as they mature into adulthood and that there were individual differences in changes during this period. Although family interaction quality in the adolescent years predicted levels of romantic attachment anxiety and avoidance in young adulthood, this association did not extend to changes in attachment between the ages of 25–31 years. Overall, it seems that attachment variables demonstrate some degree of consistency over time even as the average trend is for declines in anxiety. Moreover, adolescent interactions with parents were not strong predictors of changes in attachment during adulthood. This is consistent with the view that family relationships during adolescence are associated more strongly with the stable components of attachment rather than dynamic aspects in adulthood.
Rescue extracorporeal life support as a bridge to durable left ventricular assist device
Authors: Zubarevich Alina , Zhigalov Konstantin , Szczechowicz Marcin , Arjomandi Rad Arian , Vardanyan Robert , Torabi Saeed , Papathanasiou Maria , Luedike Peter , Koch Achim , Pizanis Nikolaus , Kamler Markus , Schmack Bastian , Ruhparwar Arjang , Weymann Alexander
Published: October 2021

Background:

The ideal timing of a durable assist device implantation in patients with end-stage heart failure presenting with INTERMACS profile I is still controversial. The data on extracorporeal life support (ECLS) bridge to durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in these patients is limited.

Materials and methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 35 patients in acute cardiogenic shock (CS) who, between December 2013 and September 2020, were bridged with ECLS to durable LVAD. The mean age was 52.3 ± 12.0 years. The primary endpoints of this study were in-hospital, 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year mortality. The secondary endpoint was the development of any postoperative adverse events and other characteristics during the follow-up period. We also assessed the impact of the rescue ECLS on the recovery of the end-organ function.

Results:

In-hospital, 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year survival was 65.6%, 75.9%, 69.2%, and 62.7% respectively. The median time on ECLS was 7 days (IQR 5.0–13.0). We observed a high incidence of a severe right heart failure (22.9%), acute kidney injury on dialysis (68.6%), and respiratory failure (77.1%). Bridge with ECLS provided a significant recovery of liver and kidney function prior to durable LVAD implantation.

Conclusion:

The concept of bridging patients presenting in end-stage heart failure and cardiogenic shock with ECLS prior to durable LVAD implantation is a feasible method to ensure acceptable survival rates and significant recovery of the end-organ function.
Phase morphology, mechanical, and thermal properties of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic elastomer: Effects of blend composition and compatibilization
Authors: Fazli Ali , Rodrigue Denis
Published: October 2021

In this work, recycled high density polyethylene (rHDPE) was compounded with regenerated tire rubber (RR) (35–80 wt.%) and reinforced with recycled tire textile fiber (RTF) (20 wt.%) as a first step. The materials were compounded by melt extrusion, injection molded, and characterized in terms of morphological, mechanical, physical, and thermal properties. Although, replacement of the rubber phase with RTF compensated for tensile/flexural moduli losses of rHDPE/RR/RTF blends because of the more rigid nature of fibers increasing the composites stiffness, the impact strength substantially decreased. So, a new approach is proposed for impact modification by adding a blend of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE)/RR (70/30) into a fiber-reinforced rubberized composite. As in this case, a more homogeneous distribution of the fillers was observed due to better compatibility between MAPE, rHDPE, and RR. The tensile properties were improved as the elongation at break increased up to 173% because of better interfacial adhesion. Impact modification of the resulting thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) composites based on rHDPE/(RR/MAPE)/RTF was successfully performed (improved toughness by 60%) via encapsulation of the rubber phase by MAPE forming a thick/soft interphase decreasing interfacial stress concentration slowing down fracture. Finally, the thermal stability of rubberized fiber-reinforced TPE also revealed the positive effect of MAPE addition on molecular entanglements and strong bonding yielding lower weight loss, while the microstructure and crystallinity degree did not significantly change up to 60 wt.% RR/MAPE (70/30).
Major Constraints for Regional Hegemony: Nigeria and South Africa in Perspective
Authors: Aleyomi Michael B.
Published: October 2021

The quest for a complementary regional hegemonic dispensation has been an enduring component in Africa. While studies have recognised the increase in power assets of some states within the continent, literature is replete with the idea that no state can equal or defeat Nigeria and South Africa in contesting for regional powers. Though, this impression appears plausible. However, there are limited scholarly contributions to the devastating conditions that undermined the regional powers’ influential position to enhance legitimacy and positive image-making for African rebirth in global politics. It is against this backdrop that the current effort examines the constraints that hinder the credibility and attractive assets of the two regional powers in African policy. Relying on key-informant interview and secondary sources for the collection of data and the interpretive qualitative method for data analysis, the findings reveal that domestic limitations are major impediments to regional hegemonic powers’ dispensation. This article argues that possession of remarkable material capabilities without corresponding legitimacy and diplomatic means of ‘appealing’ to other states is not enough in the pursuit of hegemonic status. It, therefore, concludes that Nigeria and South Africa must tackle the domestic crises that consistently decline the credibility and continental leadership to curb the global inequality against Africa.
Fight the biopower! Mixed martial arts as resistance
Authors: Sugden Jack Thomas
Published: October 2021

Globally, mixed martial arts has seen a staggering level of growth in participation and fandom over the past 20 years. This paper presents the results from an immersive participant ethnography of an urban mixed martial arts gym in England’s North West and the experience of some of its members. Emergent is that the practices of mixed martial arts can be viewed as acts of resistance against neoliberal norms and expectations that permeate the diverse yet everyday lives of participants outside the gym’s walls. This paper applies the sociological imagination of and through the body and draws from the Foucauldian notion of biopower to discuss how, in the search for athletic solidarity, an authentic community is built and maintained around this transgressive pursuit. It is evident that a diverse range of individuals are making and remaking a space in which neoliberal norms, labels and expectations are rejected in favour of a renewed connection with the body and each other.
Follow-Up Care Barriers for Patients with Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Van Swol Joshua , Wolf Bethany J. , Toumey Julia , Pecha Phayvanh , Patel Krishna G.
Published: October 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a patient with a cleft's age, associated syndrome, cleft phenotype or travel distance affects their follow-up rate.

Design

This study is a retrospective review of patients with CL/P treated by a craniofacial clinic.

Setting

The setting was a craniofacial clinic at a tertiary care university hospital.

Patients, Participants

Candidates were patients seen by the craniofacial clinic between January 2007 and December 2019. An initial pool of 589 patients was then reduced to 440 due to exclusion criteria.

Interventions

None

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The outcome measure was actual patient attendance to the craniofacial team compared to the team goal expectation of annual return visits.

Results

The mean age of participants at the end of the study was 9.0 ±  5.4 years with a mean follow-up period (total possible follow-up period length based on patient age at presentation and study window) of 5.5 ±  3.6 years. There was no association between cleft phenotype, type of syndrome, or distance to the clinic with attendance. Children with syndromes had an 11% decrease in the odds of attending follow-up visits with each 1-year increase in age compared to a 4% decrease in children without syndromes.

Conclusions

The only significant factors determining patient attendance were the presence of a syndrome and increasing age.
Peripherally Infused Norepinephrine to Avoid Central Venous Catheter Placement in a Medical Intensive Care Unit: A Pilot Study
Authors: Groetzinger Lara M. , Williams Julia , Svec Susan , Donahoe Michael P. , Lamberty Phillip E. , Barbash Ian J.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Reducing central venous catheter (CVC) utilization can reduce complications in the intensive care unit (ICU). While norepinephrine (NE) is traditionally administered via a CVC, lower concentrations may be safely administered via peripheral intravenous (PIV) lines.

Objective:

We aimed to describe the implementation of a pilot protocol utilizing PIVs to administer a low-dose and lower-concentration NE, review the number of CVCs avoided, and evaluate any adverse events.

Methods:

In a quaternary medical intensive care unit (MICU), from March 1, 2019, to February 29, 2020, we reviewed charts for CVC placement and adverse events from the pNE infusion. We also measured unit-level CVC utilization in all MICU patients and assessed the change in utilization associated with the peripheral norepinephrine (pNE) protocol.

Results:

Over a 1-year period, 87 patients received a pNE infusion. Overall, 44 patients (51%) never required CVC placement during their MICU stay. Three patients (3%) experienced adverse events, none of which were documented as serious and or required antidote for treatment. Implementation of the protocol was associated with a decrease in the number of patients at the unit level who received CVCs, even if they did not receive pNE.

Conclusion and Relevance:

In this small pilot study, we pragmatically demonstrated that pNE is safe and may reduce the need for CVC placement. This information can be used to aid in pNE protocol development and implementation at other institutions, but further research should be done to confirm the safety of routine use of pNE in clinical practice.
Method for Scoring Dose of Multicomponent Interventions: A Building Block for Future Evaluations
Authors: Hewawitharana Sridharshi C. , Kao Janice , Rider Carolyn D. , Talmage Evan , Costello Sadie , Webb Karen , Gosliner Wendi , Woodward-Lopez Gail
Published: October 2021

Schools are a critical setting for improving child nutrition and food security and preventing obesity in the United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture mandates that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program–Education, known as CalFresh Healthy Living (CFHL) in California, implements obesity prevention efforts that utilize multicomponent policy, systems, and environmental change interventions supplemented with direct and indirect education. However, evaluation of these complex interventions has proven challenging due to a lack of established evaluation methods, particularly for comprehensively measuring the dose of multicomponent interventions. This article proposes and demonstrates a method to score the dose of multicomponent California Department of Public Health–funded CFHL school interventions received by children attending public schools, using administrative data collected by CFHL in California.
Introduction: Imaginaries of Asian media infrastructures
Authors: McDonald Tom , Horst Heather A
Published: October 2021

This Special Issue examines the relationship between imaginaries and infrastructures. Through a specific focus on the Asian region, the four articles contained herein demonstrate how these imaginaries span, transform and proliferate various boundaries. They also create new regimes of visibility and present a range of ethical dimensions for those who use them and the companies and governments that regulate the infrastructures. These include dating and video sharing apps, digital money transactions and diverging historical accounts of communications technologies. Such diverse examples demonstrate how media infrastructures and the media content they carry enable the production of imaginaries and meaning.
Lone organizers: Opposition party-building in hostile places in Tanzania
Authors: Paget Dan
Published: October 2021

I ask where African opposition parties organize. Party-building is communicative; it involves persuading people to become activists. The literature suggests that opposition parties organize where people are receptive to their messages and build outwards from there. I study Chadema’s opposition party-building through site-intensive fieldwork. Chadema organized primarily in such receptive areas, but also in four unreceptive constituencies. I use these deviant constituencies to refine the literature. Prior theory neglects the heterogeneity of party-building. I decompose party-building into three modes as follows: by touring leaders, branches and concentrating leaders. Concentrating leaders dedicate their organizing to single places. They employ small rallies which afford interactive, individualized and iterative communication. This personalized communication enables them to overcome initial unreceptiveness to their messages. I conclude that opposition parties can organize in unreceptive areas, but only through the personalized methods of these ‘lone organizers’. Altogether, I show how and through whom opposition parties organize in hostile environments.
Uncertain crisis time affects psychosocial dimensions in beta-thalassemia patients during Covid-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Cerami Chiara , Santi Gaia Chiara , Sammartano Irene , Borsellino Zelia , Cuccia Liana , Battista Ruffo Giovan , Crespi Chiara
Published: October 2021

Psychosocial variables are key factors influencing the delicate equilibrium of chronic patients during crisis time. In this study, we explored distress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, coping strategies, and changes in life habits in 43 beta-thalassemia patients and 86 controls during Covid-19 pandemic. Patients showed higher anxiety levels and a predominant transcendent coping profile compared to controls. Patients significantly differed from controls in outdoor habits. Social isolation and habits changes in uncertain life-threaten situations as Covid-19 pandemic are particularly detrimental in fragile beta-thalassemia patients. Structured support interventions are needed to promote well-being in the Covid-19 era.
Exploring tensions in integrating core practices into initial EFL teacher education programs in the Chilean context
Authors: Barahona Malba , Darwin Stephen
Published: October 2021

Internationally, there is increasing interest in the value of incorporating core practices into second language (L2) teacher education programs. This article reports on a research project that investigated how a set core practices are integrated into the Methods courses and practicums in Chilean language teacher education programs for English as a foreign language (EFL). The study was framed by a two-stage, sequential data collection strategy based on a questionnaire ( n = 48) and semi-structured interviews ( n = 21) to university-based, Chilean English teacher educators. The questionnaire identified teaching practices in use, whilst the interviews sought to understand how teacher educators taught these identified teaching practices, as well as the rationale for these choices. Two practices – facilitating target language comprehensibility and building discourse communities – emerged as the most prominent practices. Primarily, these practices were taught through modelling, decomposing, planning and simulations. However, potentially more complex issues around translanguaging, inclusion strategies and cultural practices tended to be framed using more directive and teacher-centred pedagogies. The outcomes of the study highlight several critical issues for L2 teacher education: the relative balance between theoretical and practical domains often compounded by the lack of meaningful opportunities for authentic classroom practice; and the significant challenges faced by teacher educators by engaging in ‘practice’ in a crowded program structure.
‘A way to be me’: Autobiographical reflections of autistic adults diagnosed in mid-to-late adulthood
Authors: Lilley Rozanna , Lawson Wenn , Hall Gabrielle , Mahony Joanne , Clapham Hayley , Heyworth Melanie , Arnold Samuel RC , Trollor Julian N , Yudell Michael , Pellicano Elizabeth
Published: October 2021

In this article, we report on an oral history study documenting the lives of autistic adults in Australia. This qualitative study, co-produced with autistic researchers, offers insight into the lived experiences of autistic adults diagnosed in mid-to-late adulthood. Oral history methodology was utilised to understand the experiences of autistic adults who grew up in an era before autism was well-known. The 26 interviewees were born before 1975, receiving a clinical autism diagnosis after age 35 years. All interviews were conducted by autistic researchers, transcribed and thematically analysed by a team of autistic and non-autistic researchers using the six-step process outlined by Braun and Clarke. We identified four themes relating to perceptions of the self: being different, exploring identity, the suffering self and being Autistic. Some interviewees reported a direct relationship between trauma, negative self-conceptions and suffering. For most, formal diagnosis had positive impacts on sense of self, contributing to a greater focus on strengths. Contra research suggesting autistic impairments in self-awareness, these interviewees demonstrated a deep capacity for self-reflection, highlighting the variability of autistic lives and the socio-historical contexts that shape individual biographies, including experiences of stigma and discrimination as well as the empowering potential of identifying as autistic.

Lay abstract

Using oral history methods, we interviewed and recorded 26 autistic adults in Australia about their life history. We wanted to better understand interviewees’ self-reflections about their lives. The interviewers were autistic researchers and the interviews were analysed by autistic and non-autistic researchers. All of the adults we interviewed were born before 1975 and formally identified as autistic after age 35 years. This group of people is sometimes referred to as ‘late-diagnosed autistic adults’. In general, there is not much research done about autistic adults and even less is known about those diagnosed late in life. In this article, we explore what these adults said about their sense of self and how that changed over time. These autistic adults told us about many negative experiences, including trauma, which had shaped how they think about themselves. For most, autism diagnosis had a very positive impact on their sense of self, allowing them to understand more about their own past and to feel good about their autistic identity. Previously some researchers have said that autistic people have a limited or impaired sense of self. Instead, our results show some autistic people can actually reflect deeply on their lives and their changing sense of self-identity over time.
“Lifestyle, finitude, or inequality?”: Illness explanation in Kathlyn Conway’s and Arthur Frank’s cancer memoirs
Authors: Huang Hwa-Yen
Published: October 2021

The lifestyle model, which attributes etiological power and moral responsibility to the individual, is dominant in health promotion discourse. While sociologists rightly critique this model’s individualistic outlook, there has been insufficient distinction between the two anti-individualistic models that commonly inform their work: the well-known “sociological model” and the culturally influential but under-conceptualized model tentatively called the “finitude model.” Not only is there insufficient awareness of the different etiological causes (inequality and human fragility) and political orientations (redistribution and recognition) underlying the sociological and finitude models, but there is also insufficient recognition of how the finitude model may inform illness explanation. To raise awareness about the existence and analytical utility of the finitude model, I elucidate its core assumptions through a brief review of some influential texts in late-modern health politics. Further, I illustrate the empirical utility of the notion of the finitude model by analyzing how it is used to explain illness in Arthur Frank’s and Kathlyn Conway’s influential cancer memoirs. Thematic analysis of the memoirs produces two major findings. First, Frank and Conway rely on the finitude model to claim victimhood and blame the blamers. Second, they seem unaware of the double-edged character of such a model, which tends to downplay how social inequality shapes health. My analysis reveals the one-sidedness of both the finitude and sociological models, and that any illness explanation therefore needs to integrate both anti-individualistic models to challenge the lifestyle model successfully.
Experimental, numerical and parametric studies on stress concentration factors of T-joints under tension
Authors: Matti Feleb , Mashiri Fidelis
Published: October 2021

This paper investigates the behaviour of square hollow section (SHS) T-joints under static axial tension for the determination of stress concentration factors (SCFs) at the hot spot locations. Five empty and corresponding concrete-filled SHS-SHS T-joint connections were tested experimentally and numerically. The experimental investigation was carried out by attaching strain gauges onto the SHS-SHS T-joint specimens. The numerical study was then conducted by developing three-dimensional finite element (FE) T-joint models using ABAQUS finite element analysis software for capturing the distribution of the SCFs at the hot spot locations. The results showed that there is a good agreement between the experimental and numerical SCFs. A series of formulae for the prediction of SCF in concrete-filled SHS T-joints under tension were proposed, and good agreement was achieved between the maximum SCFs in SHS T-joints calculated from FE T-joint models and those from the predicted formulae.
Robust clustering based on finite mixture of multivariate fragmental distributions
Authors: Maleki Mohsen , McLachlan Geoffrey J , Lee Sharon X
Published: October 2021

A flexible class of multivariate distributions called scale mixtures of fragmental normal (SMFN) distributions, is introduced. Its extension to the case of a finite mixture of SMFN (FM-SMFN) distributions is also proposed. The SMFN family of distributions is convenient and effective for modelling data with skewness, discrepant observations and population heterogeneity. It also possesses some other desirable properties, including an analytically tractable density and ease of computation for simulation and estimation of parameters. A stochastic representation of the SMFN distribution is given and then a hierarchical representation is described, the latter aids in parameter estimation, derivation of statistical properties and simulations. Maximum likelihood estimation of the FM-SMFN distribution via the expectation–maximization (EM) algorithm is outlined before the clustering performance of the proposed mixture model is illustrated using simulated and real datasets. In particular, the ability of FM-SMFN distributions to model data generated from various well-known families is demonstrated.
Using auto-ethnography to bring visibility to coloniality
Authors: Hernandez-Carranza Giovanni , Carranza Mirna , Grigg Elizabeth
Published: October 2021

This article traces how coloniality traps research and researchers in the Global North into maintaining the rigidity of its politics and logics through the meaning process. As International Social Work continues to gain popularity, supporting the proliferation of research across borders, the theoretical underpinnings must be unpacked with the context of the collaboration and the cultures involved that give meaning to both. The crux of the article rests within the implications for qualitative research in social work—both within, and across borders as a way of promoting social justice with marginalized communities. It also provides new possibilities for transcending and translating methodologies across the fields of social work and anthropology. To illustrate how research operates under the rubric of coloniality, this article uses autoethnography to uncover the on-the-ground realities of working across localities. The auto-ethnography revealed that despite the goal of sharing control of the research process, tensions related to coloniality emerged. As a result of working in different localities, each team’s processes became distinct—as it was informed by different historical, economic and geopolitical processes.
Troubling solutions through anthropological fieldwork: Mediation research in Ghana, Australia, and the United States
Authors: Crampton Alexandra
Published: October 2021

Social workers and anthropologists encounter different representations of mediation as a professional practice: On the one hand, Social Work is grounded in mediation as expert knowledge that helps others to resolve interpersonal disputes. For example, mediation as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) can enable court cases to resolve without formal trials. On the other hand, Anthropology is grounded in mediation as a research field site and by past intervention experience of anthropologists. As mediation professionalized and became mandated across public institutions, anthropologists became strong ADR critics. Academic debate between mediation proponents and critics ended as critics abandoned research in the 1990s and 2000s. My initial research goal was to pick up from past empirical study. Research was conducted in Australia, Ghana, and the United States in two areas of mediation practice; resolving parenting disputes between adults who are separating or not married, and “elder mediation” cases involving older adults. Initial findings reified past debate through data that supported proponents and critics. Further insight was gained through return to fieldwork using an expanded, ethnographic case study design. This article provides a journey through a seemingly intractable divide that was ultimately resolved through prolonged time in fieldwork focused on understanding client perspectives. I show how social work and anthropology scholars of professional mediation have been positioned on opposite sides of an expert knowledge/fieldwork research boundary. This boundary can be made productive through open exchange about mediation as a practice that evolves through an interplay of expert knowledge, intervention practice, and client engagement.
Salary Cap, Organizational Gap, and Catch-up in the Performance of NBA Teams: A Two-Stage DEA Model Under Heterogeneity
Authors: Chatzistamoulou Nikos , Kostas Kounetas , Theodor Antonakis
Published: October 2021

This paper evaluates National Basketball Association teams performance using a two-stage approach under a metafrontier framework. Our approach decomposes overall efficiency into salary-cap and on-court efficiency. Organizational gaps between different organizational structures are calculated as well. The introduction of the salary cap as an important element for a competitive market preventing monopoly formation allows the examination of the effects on different types of performance. Findings reveal that teams experience increased performance while organizational gaps decline. Moreover, a [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] convergence analysis reveals convergence patterns. Finally, the catch-up index denotes that the speed of convergence increases, especially after the salary cap policy implementation.
Offensive/Defensive Talent and Sporting Success in Football: Evidence From the Big Five European Leagues
Authors: Carreras-Simó Miquel , García Jaume
Published: October 2021

Over the past decade, the sustained growth of the football business has been associated with clubs’ interest in investing in players’ talent, which has boosted both the transfer market and players’ salaries. However, players’ talent is heterogeneous, given that both defensive and offensive talent are required. Therefore, clubs have to decide on the optimal talent composition, taking into account the differences in the cost and the productivity of both talents. The article shows that, firstly, clubs’ talent composition (ratio between offensive and defensive talent) presents significant differences over time among the Big Five European leagues. Secondly, the talent composition is consistent with maximizing sporting performance (or profit maximization) in the case of Serie A, but not in the case of Bundesliga. Results for Premier League, LaLiga and Ligue 1, are not conclusive with a few exceptions associated with the top teams.