bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X-Linked Spinal Muscular Atrophy 2 due to a Synonymous Variant in the UBA1 Gene in a Family with Novel Findings from Turkey
Authors: Öztürk Özden , Çavdartepe Büşra Eser , Bağış Haydar
Published: February 2022

Spinal muscular atrophy, X-linked 2 (SMAX2) is a rare type of spinal muscular atrophy characterized by muscle weakness, hypotonia, areflexia, myopathic face, tongue fibrillations, contractures, bone fractures, and cryptorchidism. Variants of the UBA1 gene lead to SMAX2. The UBA1 gene encodes a protein that activates the ubiquitin pathway which is responsible for protein degradation. Here, we describe a family presenting with hypotonia, muscle weakness, areflexia, contractures, weak cry, in association with other anomalies including myopathic face, scoliosis, tongue fibrillations, and cryptorchidism. Molecular analysis in 2 patients revealed a hemizygous pathogenic variant in the UBA1 gene (NM_153280.3, NP_695012.1: c.1731C>T [p.Asn577Asn]) inherited from their carrier mothers. Our study presents the first patients from Turkey, widening the phenotypic spectrum of SMAX2 by pectus carinatum, medullary sponge kidney, and frontal cyst.
Prenatal Silver-Russell Syndrome in a Chinese Family Identified by Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
Authors: Zhang Yong-Ling , Jing Xiang-Yi , Wan Jun-Hui , Pan Min , Li Dong-Zhi
Published: February 2022

Russell-Silver syndrome (SRS) is a rare condition characterized by poor growth before and after birth along with multiple physical and psychosocial characteristics such as short stature, characteristic facial features, body asymmetry, feeding difficulties, and learning disabilities. In this study, we report a family with 2 recurrent SRS pregnancies due to a derivative chromosome 15 that is the result of a maternally derived t(11;15) translocation, detected by non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). The 2 SRS fetuses were diagnosed by chromosomal microarray analysis, but a balanced, reciprocal translocation of the mother was disclosed by the combination of routine karyotyping and FISH. This study demonstrates that NIPT has the ability to identify submicroscopic copy number variations (CNVs) in fetuses, which in some cases may result from a parent being a balanced rearrangement carrier. Because of the differences in resolution and the various benefits and limitations of each genetic technique, great care must be taken when deciding on which test(s) to employ in family studies.
Warthin-Like Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: A Morphological Spectrum – A Report of 3 Cases with Histological and Cytological Findings and Review of the Literature
Authors: Basak Kayhan , Mericoz Cisel Aydin , Firat Pinar
Published: February 2022

Background: Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) showing Warthin’s tumor (WT)-like features is a low-grade malignancy which should be differentiated from WT. Morphological features may be distinctly different in each case, causing diagnostic difficulties. Case Presentation: Three cases were presented and discussed with their morphologies. All cases that presented with a mass in the parotid gland went to parotidectomy, and all had preoperative fine-needle aspirations (FNAs). Case 1 was a 16-year-old female; FNA was suggestive of WT and initially interpreted as WT histologically. Case 2 was a 27-year-old male; FNA was interpreted as noninformative due to the presence of cyst fluid only. Case 3 was a 53-year-old male and cytologically was found to be suspicious for MEC which contained squamous and goblet cells on a mucoid background. On histopathological examination, case 2 and case 3 were morphologically consistent with low-grade MEC with WT-like features. Prominent lymphoid stroma and the cystic pattern were the characters of these tumors. Case 1 had the classical WT appearance with some mucinous and squamous metaplasia which could only be interpreted as MEC after the detection of MAML2 rearrangement by FISH. The other 2 showed either focal or relatively diffuse usual low-grade MEC findings, and case 3 was also confirmed by MAML2 rearrangement. Conclusion: Cytological and histopathological features revealed a spectrum. Differentiating WT-like MECs from ordinary WTs may be challenging. On the one end of the spectrum, they may look very much like WT, and on the other end, even though usual MEC features are present, still, WT-like appearance may pose diagnostic difficulty. Showing MAML2 rearrangement in these cases is very helpful. The presence of mucinous and squamous cells in an otherwise WT-like looking tumor should be alarming for MEC, and if possible, each case should be analyzed for MAML2 rearrangement.
Early Mental Trajectories Predict Different Cognitive Levels at School Age in Very Preterm Children
Authors: Wang Lan-Wan , Lin Yen-Kuang , Lin Yung-Chieh , Huang Chao-Ching ,   for the Taiwan Premature Infant Follow-up Network
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Early identification of preterm children at high risk of intellectual disability (intelligence quotient [IQ] <70) or borderline intelligence (IQ = 70–84) is critical for different early intervention. We investigated whether early-life mental trajectories predict intellectual disability and borderline intelligence, respectively, among school-age preterm children. Methods: A multicenter study recruited preterm infants born at <32 weeks’ gestation between 2001 and 2014 in Taiwan who underwent mental assessments (Bayley Scales of Infant Development) at corrected ages 6, 12, and 24 months and IQs at age 5.5 years. Mental trajectories from ages 6 to 24 months determined using group-based trajectory modeling were employed to predict intellectual disability and borderline intelligence, respectively. Model fit was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and Akaike information criterion (AIC). Results: Among the 1,680 children enrolled, three mental trajectories were identified: high-stable (59.7%), high-declining (35.3%), and low-declining (5.0%), in which the borderline-intelligence/intellectual-disability rate was 14.1%/1.5%, 36.1%/13.7%, and 10.7%/82.1%, respectively. Compared with children with normal intelligence, the low-declining trajectory had 37.7-fold higher odds (95% confidence interval [CI], 26.3–48.1) for intellectual disability, and the high-declining trajectory had 4.4-fold higher odds (95% CI, 3.1–6.1) for borderline intelligence. Compared to the models with risk factors alone (AIC 1,791.2), the models that included both risk factors and trajectory groups had better overall performance (AIC 1,419.8) and increased prediction power for intelligence outcomes: low-declining trajectory for intellectual disability (AUROC increased from 0.81 to 0.92) and high-declining trajectory for borderline intelligence (AUROC increased from 0.68 to 0.75). Conclusions: Early-life mental trajectories help identify preterm children at risk of intellectual disability and borderline intelligence, respectively, at school age for timely intervention.
Upper Tract Urinary Cancer Recurrence after Radical Cystectomy: Risk Assessment of Intraoperative Frozen Section
Authors: Nientiedt Malin , Waldbillig Frank , Stroop Felix , Nuhn Philipp , Erben Philipp , Popovic Zoran V. , Weis Cleo-Aron , Michel Maurice Stephan , Kriegmair Maximilian C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Upper tract urinary cancer recurrence (UTUCR) after radical cystectomy (RC) is outcome-limiting. Surgical recommendations on intraoperative performance of frozen section analysis (FSA) and management of positive ureteral margin (PUM) are lacking. Methods: 634 RC cases were identified (2010–2018). In patients with PUM, sequential ureteral resections up to a negative margin were performed. We investigated the accuracy of FSA, significance of PUM, and identified risk factors (RFs) to stratify patients for UTUCR. Results: FSA was performed in 355 patients, including a total of 693 ureters. FSA sensitivity was 0.93 and specificity 0.99. PUM conversion was possible in 52 (91.2%) cases. UTUCR occurred in 17 (4.8%) patients. Identified UTUCR RFs are non-muscle invasive bladder carcinoma (NMIBC) (OR 3.8, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.4–10.2, p = 0.008), multifocal bladder cancer in cystectomy specimen (OR 4.7, CI 1.1–20.8, p = 0.042), and recurrent NMIBC (OR 4.1, CI 1.5–10.9, p = 0.006). Risk-group stratification showed a six-fold increase in UTUCR risk (low-to high-risk). Conclusion: FSA is a sensitive and specific method to identify PUM. UTUCR occurs significantly more often in patients with recurrent, multifocal NMIBC at the time of RC. Patients can be risk stratified for UTUCR. In case of NMIBC-PUM, surgeons can safely opt for a kidney preserving strategy.
Analysis Of Financial Statements To Assess Financial Performance In Regional Drinking Water Companies In Tegal City
Authors: Pebriani Indah Dwi , Nurlaeli Fenti
Published: February 2022

This research was conducted at the Tegal City Drinking Water Company which is a regional company engaged in clean and healthy water services for the needs of the community. The purpose of this study was to determine the financial performance of the Regional Water Company of Tegal City seen from the ratio of profitability, liquidity, and solvency. The research method used includes the type of research, namely quantitative descriptive research. Sources of data used are primary data and secondary data. Data collection methods are literature review, documentation and interviews. The data analysis method used is a quantitative method. The results of this study indicate that the profitability ratio which includes Return On Equity shows that in 2018 it was 11.18%, in 2019 it was 9.26%, and in 2020 it was 11.39%. While the Operating Ratio in 2018 was 0.85, in 2019 it was 0.90 and in 2020 it was 0.89. Liquidity ratios include the Cash Ratio in 2018 of 1,473.28%, in 2019 of 698.67%, and in 2020 of 673.13%. Meanwhile, Billing Effectiveness in 2018 was 95.94%, in 2018 it was 98.47%, and in 2020 it was 95.04%. The solvency ratio in 2018 was 852.62%, in 2019 it was 607.40%, and in 2020 it was 482.17%. Based on the results of the research above, it can be concluded that the financial performance of the Regional Water Company of Tegal City is seen from the profitability ratios in a condition of rentable and inrentable. Then based on the liquidity ratio in a liquid state. And based on the solvency ratio in a solvable state.
lncExACT1 and DCHS2 Regulate Physiological and Pathological Cardiac Growth
Authors: Li Haobo , Trager Lena E. , Liu Xiaojun , Hastings Margaret H. , Xiao Chunyang , Guerra Justin , To Samantha , Li Guoping , Yeri Ashish , Rodosthenous Rodosthenis , Silverman Michael G. , Das Saumya , Ambardekar Amrut V. , Bristow Michael R. , González-Rosa Juan Manuel , Rosenzweig Anthony
Published: February 2022

Background:

The heart grows in response to pathological and physiological stimuli. The former often precedes cardiomyocyte loss and heart failure; the latter paradoxically protects the heart and enhances cardiomyogenesis. The mechanisms underlying these differences remain incompletely understood. Although long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important in cardiac development and disease, less is known about their roles in physiological hypertrophy or cardiomyogenesis.

Methods:

RNA sequencing was applied to hearts from mice after 8 weeks of voluntary exercise-induced physiological hypertrophy and cardiomyogenesis or transverse aortic constriction for 2 or 8 weeks to induce pathological hypertrophy or heart failure. The top lncRNA candidate was overexpressed in hearts with adeno-associated virus vectors and inhibited with antisense locked nucleic acid–GapmeRs to examine its function. Downstream effectors were identified through promoter analyses and binding assays. The functional roles of a novel downstream effector, dachsous cadherin-related 2 (DCHS2), were examined through transgenic overexpression in zebrafish and cardiac-specific deletion in Cas9-knockin mice.

Results:

We identified exercise-regulated cardiac lncRNAs, called lncExACTs. lncExACT1 was evolutionarily conserved and decreased in exercised hearts but increased in human and experimental heart failure. Cardiac lncExACT1 overexpression caused pathological hypertrophy and heart failure; lncExACT1 inhibition induced physiological hypertrophy and cardiomyogenesis, protecting against cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction. lncExACT1 functioned by regulating microRNA-222, calcineurin signaling, and Hippo/Yap1 signaling through DCHS2. Cardiomyocyte DCHS2 overexpression in zebrafish induced pathological hypertrophy and impaired cardiac regeneration, promoting scarring after injury. In contrast, murine DCHS2 deletion induced physiological hypertrophy and promoted cardiomyogenesis.

Conclusions:

These studies identify lncExACT1-DCHS2 as a novel pathway regulating cardiac hypertrophy and cardiomyogenesis. lncExACT1-DCHS2 acts as a master switch toggling the heart between physiological and pathological growth to determine functional outcomes, providing a potentially tractable therapeutic target for harnessing the beneficial effects of exercise.
Inference on Conditional Quantile Processes in Partially Linear Models with Applications to the Impact of Unemployment Benefits
Authors: Qu Zhongjun , Yoon Jungmo , Perron Pierre
Published: February 2022

We propose methods to estimate and make inferences on conditional quantile processes for models with both nonparametric and (locally or globally) linear components. We derive their asymptotic properties, optimal bandwidths, and uniform confidence bands over quantiles allowing for robust bias correction. Our framework covers the sharp regression discontinuity design, which is used to study the effects of unemployment insurance benefits extensions, focusing on heterogeneity over quantiles and covariates. We show economically strong effects in the tails of the outcome distribution. They reduce the within-group inequality, but can be viewed as enhancing between-group inequality, although they help to bridge the gender gap.
Cross-cultural Analysis of Models of the Relationship between the Cognitive Abilities and Academic Achievement in Primary School Education
Authors: Tikhomirova Tatiana N. , Malykh Artem S. , Lysenkova Irina A. , Malykh Sergey B.
Published: February 2022

Background. The cognitive predictors of academic achievement are associated both with basic cognitive abilities such as the information processing speed, number sense and visuospatial working memory, as well as with general ability including nonverbal intelligence. However, the ratio between cognitive development and school achievement can depend on sociocultural conditions. Objective. The results of a cross-cultural analysis of the relationship between cognitive development and academic achievement during primary education are presented. The analysis was conducted sampling schoolchildren from Russia and Kyrgyzstan, two countries that have a similar organization of the national education system but differ in the level of socioeconomic development. Design. The study involved 732 schoolchildren aged 7.7 to 11.8 years studying in Russia and Kyrgyzstan. Information processing speed, visuospatial working memory, and number sense were assessed using each of “Choice Reaction Time,” “Corsi Block-Tapping Test,” and “Number Sense” computerized tests. Results. According to the results, empirical data in both samples show that a model where in information processing speed signifies basic cognitive ability is a key predictor of nonverbal intelligence, working memory, and number sense, and each of these may contribute to individual differences in academic achievement. Notwithstanding the universality of this model, cross-cultural differences were seen to engender a reduction of schoolchildren’s academic achievements, given possible impacts of less favorable educational conditions. Conclusion. In the relationship between cognitive abilities and academic success at the primary school education, there are both similarities and differences between schoolchildren studying in Russia and Kyrgyzstan.
Two Generations of Mother-Child Relationships: A Self-determination Theory Analysis of the Social Situation of Development
Authors: Salikhova Nailya R. , Lynch Martin F. , Salikhova Albina B.
Published: February 2022

Background. This study used self-determination theory to examine the intergenerational continuity of the social situation of development with a focus on what determines a woman’s basic psychological need support for her child. Objective. To assess the relationship between the basic need support a woman received from her own mother, the woman’s basic need support toward her own child, and the quality of the woman-child interaction. Design. The scales, “Parent-child interaction” and “Basic Psychological Needs,” were administered. Eighty-seven women (29-40 years old) with children age 4-5 years assessed the basic need support provided for them by their mother in childhood and at present, and her estimate of the basic need support she herself provides to her own child. Analyses included descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, factor analysis, and multiple linear regression. Results. The ratio of levels of basic need support demonstrated continuity across generations. Intergenerational continuity in the child’s basic need support mainly concerns the needs for competence and relatedness: the more they were supported in childhood and are now supported by the woman’s mother, the more the woman supports them in her own child today. Such continuity was not found for autonomy support. A woman’s own basic need support by her mother, in childhood and currently, and the woman’s provision of basic need support for her child predicted most of the woman-child interaction parameters. Conclusion. Intergenerational continuity with respect to provision of basic need support was shown. The woman-child interaction was predicted by basic need support across intergenerational relations.
Defining Digital Competence for Older Preschool Children
Authors: Kalabina Inna A. , Progackaya Tatyana K.
Published: February 2022

Background. Recent studies show that by the age of 5–7, children have already had experience using technology for several years. Discussions about the impact of digital interaction on children are ongoing. Nevertheless, it is becoming clear that there is a need to develop concepts and tools that will help children in the process of exploring the digital world. One of such concepts can be that of digital competence. It refers to the readiness of an individual to apply digital technologies efficiently and safely in various spheres of life. Objective. To determine the content of digital competence for modern children of older preschool age. Design. The study included interviewing children, organizing interaction of a child with a digital device, playing a card game, and having their parents answer survey questions. Results. Our study found that older preschool children had a general idea of how to use digital technologies and could name those functions which they had observed or used themselves. The main purpose of the children’s interactions with digital devices was entertainment. Most of the preschoolers demonstrated low motivation for learning how to use digital devices, and had not developed ideas about how to use digital devices in everyday life safely and effectively. Conclusion. The concept of digital competence can be applied to the study of issues related to the interaction of older preschool children with the digital environment. The results we obtained can help educators and parents to develop strategies for the appropriate and child-friendly interaction of preschoolers with the digital environment.
Financial and Quality Metrics of A Large, Publicly Traded U.S. Nursing Home Chain in the Age of Covid-19
Authors: Kingsley David E. , Harrington Charlene
Published: February 2022

Nursing homes faced serious challenges with large COVID-19 resident infection rates and deaths during the pandemic. This descriptive case study examined the structure, operations, strategies, care outcomes, and owners of The Ensign Group Inc. the second largest U.S. for-profit chain, between 2007 and 2021. Ensign, as a holding company, has a complex organizational structure that uses more than 430 corporate entities to manage its 228 nursing homes and senior living facilities. With mostly Medicare and Medicaid revenues and favorable government COVID-19 relief, Ensign grew rapidly, even during the pandemic, to $2.5 billion (all amounts in U.S. Dollars) in revenues with a market capitalization of $4.5 billion and strong profits and financial metrics in 2020 to 2021. The company used real estate purchasing, debt financing, and spin-off companies, and tax arbitrage to optimize shareholder value. Before and during the pandemic, its 198 nursing homes had low registered nurse and total nurse staffing levels and regulatory violations with below-average ratings, and they had high COVID-19 infection rates during the pandemic. Ensign's small board, executives, and institutional investors protected and enhanced shareholder interests rather than ensuring that its nursing homes met professional standards and regulatory requirements.
Social media fatigue: Causes and concerns
Authors: Sunil Shweta , Sharma Manoj Kumar , Amudhan Senthil , Anand Nitin , John Nisha
Published: February 2022

Background:

Social Media Fatigue (SMF) has seen a significant increase through the COVID-19 pandemic. It refers to high levels of information overload experienced due to extensive usage of social media.

Aim:

To understand the causes and consequences for mitigating social media fatigue.

Methods:

PRISMA model was followed, and 20 papers were consolidated from the years 2014 to 2021. Seven papers were screened out due to duplication and exclusion criteria.

Results:

The studies found implicated the existence of four umbrella factors, like Cognitive Factors, Self and Personality Factors, Environmental Factors and Social Factors. Self and Personality Factors include personal and intrinsic factors that make one susceptible to developing SMF more easily, whereas aspects like increased boredom and information overload include cognitive factors that increase susceptibility to SMF. Environmental and Social Factors include aspects like parenting and social media role conflict respectively.

Conclusions:

The current findings have implications to promote research to assess the levels of social media fatigue among the individuals and to evolve psychotherapeutic interventions and digital literacy programs to manage social media fatigue among the community.
Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Controls Maxillofacial Hyperostosis
Authors: Chen J. , Cuevas P.L. , Dworan J.S. , Dawid I. , Turkkahraman H. , Tran K. , Delgado-Calle J. , Bellido T. , Gorski J.P. , Liu B. , Brunski J.B. , Helms J.A.
Published: February 2022

The roles of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in regulating the morphology and microstructure of craniomaxillofacial (CMF) bones was explored using mice carrying a constitutively active form of β-catenin in activating Dmp1-expressing cells (e.g., daβcatOt mice). By postnatal day 24, daβcatOt mice exhibited midfacial truncations coupled with maxillary and mandibular hyperostosis that progressively worsened with age. Mechanistic insights into the basis for the hyperostotic facial phenotype were gained through molecular and cellular analyses, which revealed that constitutively activated β-catenin in Dmp1-expressing cells resulted in an increase in osteoblast number and an increased rate of mineral apposition. An increase in osteoblasts was accompanied by an increase in osteocytes, but they failed to mature. The resulting CMF bone matrix also had an abundance of osteoid, and in locations where compact lamellar bone typically forms, it was replaced by porous, woven bone. The hyperostotic facial phenotype was progressive. These findings identify for the first time a ligand-independent positive feedback loop whereby unrestrained Wnt/β-catenin signaling results in a CMF phenotype of progressive hyperostosis combined with architecturally abnormal, poorly mineralized matrix that is reminiscent of craniotubular disorders in humans.
Oral Microbiota Changes Contribute to Autism Spectrum Disorder in Mice
Authors: Qiao Y. , Gong W. , Li B. , Xu R. , Wang M. , Shen L. , Shi H. , Li Y.
Published: February 2022

The oral microbiota has been implicated in various neurologic conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a category of neurodevelopmental disorders defined by core behavioral impairments. Recent data propose the etiopathogenetic role of intestinal microbiota in ASD. The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether the oral microbiota contributes to the pathogenesis of ASD. On the basis of microbial changes detected in the oral cavity of children with ASD, we transferred oral microbiota from donors with ASD and typical development (TD) into an antibiotic-mediated microbiota-depleted mouse model and found that the ASD microbiota is sufficient to induce ASD-like behaviors, such as impaired social behavior. Mice receiving oral microbiota from the ASD donor showed significantly different microbiota structures in their oral cavity and intestinal tract as compared with those receiving TD microbiota and those not receiving any bacterium. The prefrontal cortex of ASD microbiota recipient mice displayed an alternative transcriptional profile with significant upregulation of serotonin-related gene expression, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, and TGF-β signaling pathway relative to that in TD microbiota recipient mice. The expression of serotonin-related genes was significantly increased in ASD microbiota recipient mice and was associated with selective autistic behaviors and changes in abundance of specific oral microbiota, including species of Bacteroidetes [G-7], Porphyromonas, and Tannerella. Machine learning based on the causal inference method confirmed a contributing role of Porphyromonas sp. HMT 930 in ASD. Taken together, the oral microbiota of children with ASD can lead to ASD-like behaviors, differences in microbial community structures, and altered neurosignaling activities in recipient mice; this highlights the mouth-microbial-brain connections in the development of neuropathology and provides a novel strategy to fully understand the etiologic mechanism of ASD.
“Why Do We Need to Know About This?”: U.S. Imperialism, Persepolis, and Knowledge Production on Iran in the Classroom
Authors: Shirazi Roozbeh
Published: February 2022

Contributing to a growing body of research on acknowledging U.S. imperialism within teacher education, this article explores how knowledge production on Iran—and U.S.-Iran relations more broadly—in secondary education represents a site of what Britzman has called difficult knowledge. Here, the difficulty of classroom engagements with the theme of U.S. imperialism is highlighted in several epistemic stumbling blocks, notably notions of White epistemic authority, neoliberal multiculturalism, and imperial feeling. Drawing upon data collected during a 9-month ethnographic study, the analysis presents classroom scenes from a high school world literature unit on Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis, selected by the teacher to explore themes of colonialism, imperialism, and revolution. Despite these intentions, classroom engagements with the text often reproduced Orientalist understandings. These findings inform the concluding argument that mobilizes contrapuntal reading as a generative technique for teacher education research and practice to identify and confront the epistemic bases that normalize systems of oppression.
Learning to Teach for Equity, Social Justice, and/or Diversity: Do the Measures Measure Up?
Authors: Chang Wen-Chia , Cochran-Smith Marilyn
Published: February 2022

This article reviews 45 assessment tools designed to capture aspects of teaching and learning to teach for equity, social justice, and/or diversity to understand whether the existing tools measure up to the most pressing concerns in teacher education. First, we provide an overview of the 45 assessment tools, focusing on conventional properties. Second, we argue that the tools need to be examined beyond the conventional categories by attending to culture in both the content of assessments and their development processes. Finally, we use Kirkhart’s multicultural validity framework to reexamine the tools, focusing on their theoretical, methodological, relational, experiential, and consequential dimensions. Our analysis reveals that only a few assessments “measure up,” when examined in terms of multicultural validity. This means they tend not to do enough to address the most pressing challenges in today’s teacher education context or to advance equity and social justice goals at a deep level.
How district leaders create caring organizations
Authors: Kennedy Kate , Walls Jeff
Published: February 2022

Care and social-emotional supports are of concern for school district leaders who want to create a caring culture throughout their district. In their study of central office leaders, Kate Kennedy and Jeff Walls found that caring leadership is complex, that school district leaders practice care in collaboration with others, that partnerships with community organizations enable a constellation of care, and that diversity and equity initiatives are considered complementary but separate initiatives. They recommend that leaders work with stakeholders across their districts to define caring, plan for the provision of social-emotional well-being supports, promote collaborative structures, cultivate internal and external resources, draw on data to drive caring initiatives, and weave an equity orientation into caring leadership structures.
Washington View: Must we stay divided over education?
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: February 2022

Education became a major issue in the 2021 Virginia gubernatorial election, when Democratic candidate Terry McAuliffe and Republican Glenn Youngkin clashed over how much say parents should have in their children’s education. Youngkin’s victory, fueled in part by parent outrage over school curricula, could lead other candidates to stoke fear and outrage over schools to score political points. Maria Ferguson discusses the power of schools to divide society and considers what lessons schools should take from the COVID-19 crisis.
Career Confidential: New principal has imposter syndrome
Authors: Fagell Phyllis L.
Published: February 2022

Phyllis Fagell advises a newly appointed interim principal who worries that they aren’t doing their job as well as they should. She notes that self-doubt is normal and encourage the principal to focus on what they need to be successful. This may involve consulting peers, asking colleagues for feedback, or learning to reframe negative thoughts.
Digital Taylorism in China’s e-commerce industry: A case study of internet professionals
Authors: Liu Hong Yu
Published: February 2022

This article documents the working conditions and experiences of tech professionals at a leading Chinese e-commerce firm. Using intensive qualitative research methods, the author finds that digital management of tech professionals has accompanied and perhaps explains some of the Chinese tech industry’s much-heralded increases in efficiency and productivity. This management form can be understood as digital Taylorism, which has similar pathologies to the original Taylorism: a dehumanising effect on the workplace, increased work intensity, a higher income but proportionately lower share of the gains from increased productivity, and intensified competition among workers. It is hoped that this study will open up new avenues for evidence-based discussion about the future of work and the ethics of algorithm use in the workplace.
Changes in Attitudes Toward Aging, Older People and Elder Care From the Perspective of Former Migrant Care Workers
Authors: Ayalon Liat , Rapolienė Gražina
Published: February 2022

Research on migrant home care workers has focused mainly on working conditions in the recipient countries and on the relationships between care recipients and their family members. However, because migrant care workers often are transnational, going back and forth between countries, some return to their home country, bringing with them newly acquired attitudes and practices. Based on a theoretical model of the transfer of innovation, this study aims to explore changes in attitudes toward aging and elder care among former migrant care workers. We conducted 13 in-depth interviews with migrant care workers who permanently returned to Lithuania. Data were analyzed thematically. Findings revealed changes in workers’ perceptions of aging, including perceptions of their own old age, older people, and elder care. These changes were mainly attributed to their personal connections and encounters with different cultural attitudes and practices in the host country. Our findings indicate that returning migrant home care workers may act as potential innovators who bring back to their home country new ideas about aging and elder care.
On (Not) Fitting In: Fat embodiment, affect and organizational materials as differentiating agents
Authors: van Amsterdam Noortje , van Eck Dide , Meldgaard Kjær Katrine
Published: February 2022

This paper focuses on the experiences of self-identified fat women employees. Combining the works of Karen Barad and Sara Ahmed, we offer a feminist new materialist analysis of the production of difference in organizations related to size as an entanglement of bodies, discourses, organizational materials and affect. We show how our participants predominantly became shameful and a ‘bad fit’ within their jobs through the intra-action of their large bodies with obesity discourse and organizational materials such as chairs and workwear. Yet we also illustrate how some material-discursive entanglements offered situations where shame was circumvented, instead producing our participants as acceptable within their organizational context. Our research contributes to discussions on embodied normativities in organizations by taking these issues beyond the discursive realm and highlighting the importance of materiality and affect in ‘fitting in’ at work. We offer new theoretical pathways to explore differentiating practices by looking at shame as part of collective and affective histories of marginalization.
Mental Health Across the Life Course for Men and Women in Married, Cohabiting, and Living Apart Together Relationships
Authors: Yucel Deniz , Latshaw Beth A.
Published: February 2022

This study examines the underexplored relationship between union type and mental health for married, cohabiting, and living apart together (“LAT”) individuals. Further, we assess whether gender and age moderate (separately and jointly) this relationship. Using data from Wave 1 of the Generations and Gender Survey ( N = 34,833), results suggest that cohabitors and LATs have worse mental health than married individuals. The negative effects of cohabiting or living apart on mental health are stronger for women than men. Young and middle-aged female LATs (to an equal magnitude) have worse mental health than married women of the same ages, while there are no such differences among older women. Middle-aged and older male LATs have worse mental health than married men of the same ages (with the larger effect found for middle-aged men), but there are no such differences among younger men. Thus, we highlight previously undocumented gender and life course dynamics of union type and mental health.
Street Salafism: Contingency and urbanity as religious creed
Authors: Hussain Ajmal
Published: February 2022

Muslims living in European cities have come under increased public scrutiny over the past two decades for alleged links with overseas governments as sponsors of extremism. Media representations such as the documentary ‘Undercover Mosque’ that aired on a British television channel in 2007 is a poignant example of how the banal, everyday life of religious spaces can be folded into – while also give succour to – such narratives. Against the backdrop of such constraints, young Muslim men who identify as Salafi, inhabit the same street featured in the documentary with its dense and evolving Islamic infrastructure, in ways that evade easy capture of authorial gazes as well as local sensibilities of what it means to be Muslim. They do so through a hermeneutical method that I describe here as street Salafism. This involves a range of corporeal strategies that enable them to exist in and beyond the material and narrative life of the street that is seen as determining of them. In doing so, street Salafism reveals new ontological conditions of difference that test the limits, but also possibilities, for multicultural life in diverse cities such as the case described here.
Epidemiological characteristics and prognostic factors of post-traumatic endophthalmitis
Authors: Bohrani Sefidan Bahram , Tabatabaei Seyed Ali , Soleimani Mohammad , Ahmadraji Aliasghar , Shahriari Mansoor , Daraby Mostafa , Dehghani Sanij Amin , Mehrakizadeh Ali , Ramezani Bahareh , Cheraqpour Kasra
Published: February 2022

Objective

To examine the prognostic factors and features of post-traumatic endophthalmitis.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled adult patients (>18 years old) diagnosed with post-traumatic endophthalmitis. Their medical records were reviewed and the patient demographic characteristics, features of injury, management, outcomes and microbiology data were analysed.

Results

A total of 131 eyes from 131 patients were enrolled. Post-traumatic endophthalmitis was more common in male patients (122 of 131 patients: 93.1%), in those aged 30–44 years (51 of 131 patients: 38.9%), in those injured with a metallic object (86 of 131 patients; 65.6%), in those with a penetrating injury (90 of 131 patients; 68.7%) and those that were injured at work (106 of 131 patients; 80.9%). The mean ± SD time of presentation to the hospital and developing endophthalmitis was 40.60 ± 19.32 h and 5.19 ± 2.55 days, respectively. Of the cultures, 84 of 131 (64.1%) were negative and 22 of 131 (16.8%) were positive for Staphylococcus species. Patients with delayed presentation, an intraocular foreign body, traumatic cataract, retinal detachment, larger wounds, positive smears and cultures and work-related injuries had worse outcomes.

Conclusion

Immediate presentation to an ophthalmic centre and timely diagnosis and intervention may lead to better outcomes.
Supply chain finance and firm diversification: Evidence from China
Authors: Xu Lei , Li Bin , Ma Chen , Liu Jingyu
Published: February 2022

We establish a link between supply chain finance (SCF) and the diversification of core firms through a proprietary dataset of listed firms on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. Our findings suggest that SCF may significantly reduce diversification with a stronger impact on firms of lower supply chain concentration. Our exploration, from the perspectives of resource occupation, innovation incentive and market power improvement, suggests that SCF may allow the core firms to better focus on their major businesses. Further tests suggest that SCF may significantly reduce the diversification by private and non-manufacturing firms, and those of high executive shareholding. It may also lead to reduced agency costs and enhanced production efficiency with positive economic consequences. Our findings may have such policy implications that SCF may significantly serve the real economy and help sustain high-quality economic growth in the Asian Era.

JEL Classification: G11, G32, O12
Spectrum of lower urinary tract symptoms after renal transplant among adult non-urologic anuric patients and their management in a tertiary care center
Authors: Choudhury Sunirmal , Haldar Bikram , Pal Dilip Kumar
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in a post-transplant patient can lead to several complications including recurrent UTI and deterioration of the graft kidney function. The aim of this study is to investigate the spectrum of LUTS, possible complications resulting from it and its management after renal transplant in pre-transplant anuric patients operated in our tertiary care institute.

Materials and methods:

It was a retro-prospective observational study done on post-transplant patients operated in this institute from December 2016 to December 2020. Among 165 patients operated during this period 50 male and 21 female patients were finally included in this study. Urinary symptoms were evaluated using the IPSS Questionnaire. Pre and post-surgery Uroflowmetry findings were compared. Urodynamic assessment was done at least 6 months after surgery to determine the cause behind such symptoms. The data was analyzed with the help of standard statistical methods and SPSS 21 software.

Results:

The most common LUTS among the post renal transplant patients were frequency and nocturia. There was a marked improvement in voided volume and urinary flow in most of the patients. In 11 male and 7 female patients LUTS symptoms were moderate to severe and were seldom associated with recurrent UTI and graft compromise. A cautious approach in these patients helped in early diagnosis of the etiology behind LUTS, which were treated accordingly.

Conclusion:

LUTS should be carefully evaluated before renal transplantation. Postoperatively moderate to severe LUTS symptoms should be thoroughly investigated so that graft compromise and related complications can be prevented by early intervention.
Considerations of Control Conditions Designs in Randomized Controlled Trials of Exercise Interventions for Cancer Survivors
Authors: Tock Wing Lam , Maheu Christine , Johnson Nathalie A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Given the multifaceted complexity in the nature of randomized controlled trials, identifying an appropriate and comparable control condition is an essential step to ensure methodological rigor, which allows for researchers to draw unambiguous conclusions concerning the efficacy of the intervention being studied.

Objectives

The objectives of this paper are to (a) review the current literature and analyze the control condition designs in exercise interventions targeted for cancer survivors; (b) provide an overview of the benefits and limitations of various types of control conditions used in exercise interventions; (c) discuss the considerations in the design of control conditions for exercise interventions; and (d) suggest recommendations for control condition design in future trials of behavioral interventions.

Results

The review of randomized controlled trials of exercise training interventions for cancer survivors revealed that the design of control conditions varied. The most commonly employed design could be classified into two major categories: (a) active controls including attention control, add-on controls, and dismantling controls; and (b) inactive controls including no-treatment, usual care, and wait-list control. Examples from the literature are presented. Four principal considerations concerning control condition design, including appropriateness, credibility, appeal, and comparability, are discussed. Recommendations on how to avoid some major threats to validity and potential biases are also provided.

Conclusions

Careful planning for the control group design is as important as for the intervention group. Researchers can use the considerations presented in the paper to assist in planning for the most appropriate control condition for their study.
Association of Cytomegalovirus Infection with Lenticulostriate Stroke After Mild Head Trauma in Young Children
Authors: Wang Guangming , Liang Jianmin , Xin Cuijuan , Wang Linyun , Wu Xuemei
Published: February 2022

The development of lenticulostriate stroke following mild head trauma accounts for 3% of traumatic brain injuries in children. Nevertheless, the pathogenesis of infantile lenticulostriate stroke with lenticulostriate calcification is poorly understood. In this study, we explored the association of a recent viral infection with the development of infantile lenticulostriate stroke with lenticulostriate calcification following mild head trauma in children. We examined the records for 49 children (<36 months old) diagnosed with infantile stroke following mild head trauma at the First Hospital of Jilin University between January 2007 and August 2019. The demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, and laboratory and imaging results were collected and analyzed. Antibodies against Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex virus, and cytomegalovirus in the patient sera were assessed. A total of 18 patients with lenticulostriate stroke and calcification were included in the Patient group (16.61 ± 10.57 months), and 14 patients without calcification were included in the Control group (13.07 ± 7.66 months). Imaging findings demonstrated the presence of lenticulostriate stroke in all patients. There were no significant differences in the demographic characteristics or clinical manifestations of stroke between both groups ( P > .05). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in the Epstein-Barr virus and herpes simplex virus–1 antibody positivity in both groups. In contrast, cytomegalovirus antibody was significantly more abundant in the Patient group ( P < .05). All patients were hospitalized for conservative treatment with favorable prognoses. Our results suggest that cytomegalovirus infection may be associated with the development of lenticulostriate strokes in pediatric patients following minor head injury.
“We’ve Already Endured the Trauma, Who is Going to Either End that Cycle or Continue to Feed It?”: The Influence of Family and Legal Systems on Native American Women’s Intimate Partner Violence Experiences
Authors: Jock Brittany Wenniserí:iostha , Dana-Sacco Gail , Arscott Joyell , Bagwell-Gray Meredith E , Loerzel Emily , Brockie Teresa , Packard Gwendolyn , O’Keefe Victoria M. , McKinley Catherine E. , Campbell Jacquelyn
Published: February 2022

Native American (NA) women experience higher rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) compared to other U.S. racial/ethnic groups, yet previous research has not sufficiently examined the complex determinants shaping their IPV experiences. This research explores the interplay of family networks and legal systems influencing NA women’s IPV experiences. Data were collected through in-depth individual and group interviews with 42 NA survivors and 41 health/social service providers from July 2016 to June 2017 in NA communities from three different U.S. regions. We used Grounded Theory to develop emergent themes from the data, focusing on system-level risk and protective factors of women’s of IPV experiences. In terms of family systems, participants indicated that NA communities were comprised of highly influential and interwoven family systems, making them powerful sources of support for both survivors and their partners who use violence. Participants described how intergenerational violence exposures contributed to the normalization of violence. In terms of legal systems, participants described inconsistent consequences for abusers of NA women, insufficient protection from legal systems, and manipulation of jurisdictional complexities. Interactions between family and legal systems influenced decision-making and outcomes. Family and community-based approaches, and the incorporation of traditional language and cultures, are needed to promote healing. Our findings reflect the complex ways that family and legal systems shape NA women’s IPV experiences. Results provide insight into how NA women interact with and navigate these systems when experiencing IPV and how these systems impact decision-making and the ability to be safe from IPV. Research is needed to advance understanding of the inter-relationships between intergenerational trauma, family systems, and legal systems on IPV survivors’ mental health and wellness. To make meaningful change, further research examining IPV from an interdisciplinary perspective that explores the interplay of social determinants of health inequities is needed.