bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Hydroalcoholic Seed Extract of Securigera securidaca on Pancreatic Local Renin-Angiotensin System and Its Alternative Pathway in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Animal Model
Authors: Khomari Fatemeh , Kiani Bahar , Alizadeh-Fanalou Shahin , Babaei Mohammad , Kalantari-Hesari Ali , Alipourfard Iraj , Mirzaei Fatemeh , Yarahmadi Sahar , Bahreini Elham
Published: January 2023

Background. Available data suggest inhibition of the pancreatic local-renin-angiotensin system (RAS) reduces tissue complications of diabetes. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic seed extract of Securigera securidaca (S. securidaca) (HESS) on the pancreatic local-RAS and its alternative pathway. Methods. Three doses of HESS were orally administered to three groups of diabetic male Wistar rats, and the results were compared with both diabetic and healthy control groups. After 35 days of treatment, the groups were assessed for the levels of pancreatic local-RAS components, including renin, angiotensinogen, ACE, and Ang II, as well as ACE2 and Ang-(1-7) in the alternative pathway. The effect of herbal medicine treatment on tissue damage status was investigated by evaluating tissue levels of oxidative stress, proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and through histopathological examination of the pancreas. Results. HESS showed a dose-dependent palliative effect on the tissue oxidative stress profile (P<0.05) as well as the levels of pancreatic local-RAS components (P<0.05), compared to diabetic control group. Considering the interrelationship between tissue oxidative stress and local-RAS activity, the moderating effect of HESS on this relationship could be attributed to the increase in total tissue antioxidant capacity (TAC) and pancreatic Ang-(1-7) concentration. Decrease in local-RAS activity was associated with decrease in the tissue levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL1, IL6, and TNFα) (P<0.05) and increase in the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine of IL-10 (P<0.05). In addition, histological results were consistent with tissue biochemical results. Conclusions. Due to the reduction of local pancreatic RAS activity as well as oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines following treatment with HESS, S. securidaca seed can be proposed as a suitable herbal supplement in the drug-treatment of diabetes.
Trends in Healthcare Resource Use Preceding Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia
Authors: Abbass Ibrahim M. , Choi Dae , Wallick Christopher , Assunção Sheila Seleri
Published: January 2023

Introduction. An Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia diagnosis is often preceded by an extended period of cognitive decline. Few studies have examined healthcare resource use (HRU) during an extended period before AD dementia diagnosis. Methods. In a historical claims-based cohort study, propensity score-matched cohorts of patients with and without AD dementia were observed for a 5-year prediagnosis period and a 1-year postdiagnosis period. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and HRU were compared between groups. Results. Individuals in the AD dementia group displayed a greater level of medical complexity in the year before diagnosis of AD dementia relative to those in the matched cohort. Both all-cause and AD dementia complication-related HRU increased gradually, with a marked spike at the time of initial AD dementia diagnosis. Discussion. Further research into the natural history of patients with AD dementia is necessary to improve identification of early AD and to better understand its broader impact.
Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 8 Modulates Cell Proliferation and Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Breast Cancer by Stabilizing Estrogen Receptor Alpha
Authors: Zheng Lewei , Yang Qian , Li Chengxin , Xu Gaoran , Yuan Qianqian , Hou Jinxuan , Wu Gaosong
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common neoplastic and lethal malignancy in women. Although antiendocrine therapy is the main treatment for estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-positive BC, the development of resistance is a major clinical complication. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 8 (USP8) in ERα signaling and identify potential targets for endocrine resistance. Public databases were used to analyze USP8 expression, prognosis, clinical characteristics, and immune cell infiltration. Immunohistochemistry and western blot assays were used to detect protein levels and ERα signaling. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR was used to measure ERα target gene expression. The cell counting kit-8, wound-healing, clone formation, and Transwell assays were used to investigate the effects of USP8 depletion or inhibition on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. An immunofluorescence assay was used for localizing USP8 and ERα, and a protein stability assay was performed for detecting the degradation of ERα protein. The cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed using flow cytometry. USP8 was highly expressed in the luminal subtype of BC and was associated with poor prognosis. The infiltration levels of many immune cells were positively correlated with USP8 expression. Depletion of USP8 dramatically decreased the ERα signaling activity and weakened the proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities of BC cells. USP8 knockdown markedly induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest (

G
0
/
G
1

). Colocalization analysis and protein stability assays indicated a probable mechanism by which USP8 regulates ERα. Our study demonstrates that USP8 might be crucial in BC development and may be considered a potential target for treating ER-positive BC malignancies in vitro.
A GP130-Targeting Small Molecule, LMT-28, Reduces LPS-Induced Bone Resorption around Implants in Diabetic Models by Inhibiting IL-6/GP130/JAK2/STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Liu Qi-qi , Wu Wei-wei , Yang Jian , Wang Rui-bin , Yuan Ling-ling , Peng Pei-zhao , Zeng Mao-yun , Yu Ke
Published: January 2023

In this study, we examined the effect of the GP130-targeting molecule, LMT-28, on lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced bone resorption around implants in diabetic models using in vitro and rat animal experiments. First, LMT-28 was added to osteoblasts stimulated by LPS and advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and nuclear factor-κB receptor-activating factor ligand (RANKL) and associated pathways were evaluated. Then, LMT-28 was administered by gavage at 0.23 mg/kg once every 5 days for 2 weeks to type 2 diabetic rats with peri-implantitis induced by LPS injection and silk ligature. The expression of IL-6 and RANKL was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, and the bone resorption around implants was evaluated by microcomputed tomography. The results showed that LMT-28 downregulated the expression of RANKL through the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in osteoblasts stimulated by LPS and AGEs, reduced bone resorption around implants with peri-implantitis, decreased the expression of IL-6 and RANKL, and decreased osteoclast activity in type 2 diabetic rats. This study confirmed the ability of LMT-28 to reduce LPS-induced bone resorption around implants in diabetic rats.
The “Unfading Crown of Glory” as Conceptual Key
Authors: Wright John Randolph
Published: January 2023

This article seeks to offer a new reading of 1 Peter, while building upon the work of Barth L. Campbell, Travis B. Williams, and David G. Horrell (and others of course). Campbell sought to elucidate the importance of honor for the audience of 1 Peter utilizing Rhetorical Criticism, while both Williams and Horrell have employed Postcolonial Criticism to provide a reading “from the margins.” Specifically, Williams offered an interpretation of “good works” which situated that semantic and conceptual domain within subaltern strategies of mimicry and symbolic inversion. However, heretofore largely unexplored in 1 Peter is that aspect of the honor equation which actualizes honor: the honorific. This study argues that “the unfading crown of glory” in 1 Pet 5:4 serves as a conceptual key to the subversive honorific language within, thereby actualizing (and subverting) the broader theme of honor through the recognition of “good works.”
Paul, Phoebe, Timothy, and Their Collections for Judea
Authors: Fellows Richard G.
Published: January 2023

Studies of Paul’s collection(s) for Judea have suffered from the largely unexamined assumption that he wanted all regions to donate at the same time. Paul and Phoebe collaborated to organize a collection from Rome, and Paul anticipated a collection from Asia. There was likely a collection from Galatia several years before the collection from Macedonia and Achaia, and there is little reason to doubt the collection from Antioch. The silence of Acts concerning these collections is no argument against them, and it can be explained as a protective measure. We have no evidence that any of the collections were rejected.
Relational interdependencies and the intra-EU mobility of African European Citizens
Authors: Sarpong David , Maclean Mairi , Harvey Charles
Published: January 2023

How can we better understand the puzzle of low-skilled migrants who have acquired citizenship in a European Union country, often with generous social security provision, choosing to relocate to the United Kingdom? Drawing on Elias’s figurational theory as a lens, we explore how relational interdependencies foster the mobility of low-skilled African European Citizens from European Union states to the United Kingdom. We found that African European Citizens rely on ‘piblings networks’, loose affiliations of putative relatives, to compensate for deficits in their situated social capital, facilitating relocation. The temporary stability afforded by impermanent bonds and transient associations, in constant flux in migrant communities, does not preclude integration but paradoxically promotes it by enabling an ease of connection and disconnection. Our study elucidates how these relational networks offer African European Citizens opportunities to achieve labour market integration, exercise self-efficacy, and realize desired futures; anchoring individuals in existing communities even when they are perpetually transforming.
Hope and resilience among patients affected by unipolar and bipolar depression
Authors: Favale Donato , Nacci Maria , Bellomo Antonello , Torales Julio , Castaldelli-Maia João Mauricio , Ventriglio Antonio
Published: January 2023

Background:

Mood disorders, including unipolar and bipolar depression, are disabling mental conditions and patients’ full-functional recovery may be challenging. Hope and Resilience are relevant factors in the framework of personal recovery and it is of interest to explore their association with the severity of depressive illness and other variables, including suicidality.

Methods:

in this cross-sectional study, 69 patients affected by unipolar ( n = 31) and bipolar depression ( n = 38) have been recruited and information about their sociodemographics, clinical characteristics were collected as well as the following assessment has been performed: BPRS (Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale); HAMD ( Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression); MADRS (Montgomery Asberg Depression rating scale); HADS ( Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale); SSI (Scale for Suicide Ideation); Synder (The Adult Hope Scale); CD-Risk (The Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale).

Results:

patients affected by bipolar depression reported significantly higher level of psychopathological issues (BPRS) as well as higher scores of depressive and anxious symptoms (MADRS and HADS), suicidality (SSI). Also, bipolar depression patients reported lower levels of hope (Synder) and resilience (CD-Risk), with hope and resilience levels positively correlated each other, and inversely correlated to psychopathology and psychopathology, depressive and suicidal symptoms, respectively.

Conclusions:

these findings suggested that bipolar depression is characterized by higher clinical severity and lower levels of hope and resilience. Specific psycho-educational and psychotherapeutic interventions should be promoted to increase levels of hope and resilience in mood disorders, especially in bipolar depression.
Measuring Evidence for Mediation in the Presence of Measurement Error
Authors: Laghaie Arash , Otter Thomas
Published: January 2023

Mediation analysis empirically investigates the process underlying the effect of an experimental manipulation on a dependent variable of interest. In the simplest mediation setting, the experimental treatment can affect the dependent variable through the mediator (indirect effect) and/or directly (direct effect). However, what appears to be an indirect effect in standard mediation analysis may reflect a data-generating process without mediation, including the possibility of a reversed causal ordering of measured variables, regardless of the statistical properties of the estimate. To overcome this indeterminacy where possible, the authors develop the insight that a statistically reliable total effect, combined with strong evidence for conditional independence of the treatment and the outcome given the mediator, is unequivocal evidence for mediation as the underlying causal model into an operational procedure. This is particularly helpful when theory is insufficient to definitely causally order measured variables, or when the dependent variable is measured before what is believed to be the mediator. The procedure combines Bayes factors as principled measures of the degree of support for conditional independence, with latent variable modeling to account for measurement error and discretization in a fully Bayesian framework. The authors reanalyze a set of published mediation studies to illustrate how their approach facilitates stronger conclusions.
Examining the Experience of Women in Justice-Involved Families During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Impact of Familial Incarceration
Authors: Cavanagh Caitlin , Kitzmiller Mary K. , Henke Marina , Cauffman Elizabeth
Published: January 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, social inequities have compounded hardships among justice-involved families, who are more likely to be marginalized by systemic disadvantage. Little is known about the experience of the pandemic for justice-involved families, particularly those with an incarcerated family member. We examined the concerns and resource barriers of women in justice-involved families, including the unique challenges faced by those with a currently incarcerated family member. Results revealed bimodal concern for, and impact of the pandemic on, their incarcerated family member; however, economic concerns largely superseded concern for their incarcerated family members. Additional analyses highlighted the financial precarity of families with an incarcerated family member, who reported more housing instability, less access to transportation, greater food insecurity, and more discrimination. These findings highlight the need to support marginalized families during a national crisis; justice-involved families are more likely to face systemic barriers that may be exacerbated by the pandemic.
Selecting appropriate compression for lymphedema patients: American Vein and Lymphatic Society position statement
Authors: Hettrick Heather , Ehmann Suzie , McKeown Brandy , Bender Dean , Blebea John
Published: January 2023

Background

Lymphedema is a significant and disabling disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Compression therapy is an important component of lifelong treatment but the specifics of appropriate compression garment selection and prescribing is not always well understood by practitioners and payers.

Method

An expert panel of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society was convened to write a Position Statement with explanations and recommendations for the appropriate compression therapy to be used in the treatment of lymphedema patients.

Result

A Position Statement was produced by the expert panel with recommendations for documentation and compression therapy treatment. Their recommendations were reviewed, edited, and approved by the Guidelines Committee of the society.

Conclusion

This societal Position Statement provides a useful document for reference for medical care providers for the appropriate compression therapy selection and treatment of patients with lymphedema.
TK-1, TP, Ang-2, and Tie-2 mRNA expression in plasma-derived microvesicles of chemo-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Borelli Beatrice , Crucitta Stefania , Boccaccino Alessandra , Antista Maria , Antoniotti Carlotta , Marmorino Federica , Rossini Daniele , Conca Veronica , Germani Marco Maria , Provenzano Leonardo , Spagnoletti Andrea , Leone Alberto Giovanni , Cucchiara Federico , Pietrantonio Filippo , Del Re Marzia , Danesi Romano , Masi Gianluca , Cremolini Chiara , Moretto Roberto
Published: January 2023

Background:

Trifluridine/tipiracil and regorafenib are indicated for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients’ refractory to standard chemotherapy. No prognostic or predictive biomarkers are available for these agents.

Methods:

We assessed messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression of four biomarkers implicated in the mechanism of action of trifluridine/tipiracil (TK-1 and TP) and regorafenib (Ang-2 and Tie-2) in baseline plasma-derived microvesicles of chemo-refractory mCRC patients treated with these agents (trifluridine/tipiracil cohort and regorafenib cohort), to explore their prognostic and predictive role.

Results:

Baseline characteristics of the two cohorts were not different. Ang-2 mRNA was not detectable. Only TK-1 expression measured as a continuous variable was associated with progression-free survival (HR=1.09, 95%CI: 0.99-1.21; p=0.07) and overall survival (HR=1.11, 95%CI: 1.00-1.22; p=0.04), confirmed at multivariate analysis for progression-free survival (p=0.02) with a positive trend for overall survival (p=0.08). Baseline mRNA levels of TK-1, TP and Tie-2 were not predictive of trifluridine/tipiracil and regorafenib benefit.

Conclusion:

Baseline mRNA levels of TK-1, TP and Tie-2 on plasma-derived microvesicles were not predictive of trifluridine/tipiracil and regorafenib benefit. Future studies should analyze the early modulation of these biomarkers to assess their potential predictive role.
Simultaneous multi-stakeholder value creation: How Volkswagen made it happen in Wolfsburg
Authors: Hart Timothy A , Bouchet Adrien
Published: January 2023

Recent work in stakeholder theory argues that additional research into how multi-stakeholder value creation happens is an important focus for the field. However, despite calls for greater attention to this area, there are few examples of how that can happen or what it looks like. This study examines how Volkswagen did just that: created value for multiple stakeholders, nearly simultaneously, over a multi-generational time period, all while overcoming an epic scandal.
Recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder among Older Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kermel-Schiffman Ile , Afuta May , Zur Amit , Gavriel-Fried Belle
Published: January 2023

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) among older people is under-diagnosed even though the population of older people is rising. Recovery from AUD among older people is a challenging process. A scoping review of the literature on recovery from AUD among older people was conducted to characterize the main topics in recovery. A systematic search was conducted in five databases: Psycinfo, Medline, CINHAL, WoS, and Embase from January 2000 to May 2021 using the PRISMA-ScR. Twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria. The concept of recovery was defined in 20 studies, where the most frequent term was “abstinence.” 16 studies described treatment programs with different types of interventions. Six studies described specific programs for older people; five reported positive outcomes. Future studies should implement a broader definition of recovery that reflects the dimensions of the concept and refers to different age groups, to enable interdisciplinary professionals to develop holistic interventions.
Single Use or Disposable Flexible Bronchoscopes: Bench Top and Preclinical Comparison of Currently Available Devices
Authors: Deasy Kevin Frederick , Sweeney Anne-Marie , Danish Hammad , O’Reilly Emily , Ibrahim Hisham , Kennedy Marcus Peter
Published: January 2023

Background

Data regarding the risk of infection related to reusable bronchoscopes, the global drive toward disposable technology and the COVID-19 pandemic have led to an increase in the use and production of single use or disposable bronchoscopes. An in-depth comparison of all available devices has not been published.

Methods

A benchtop comparison of the Ambu®aScopeTM, Boston Scientific® EXALTTM Model B, the Surgical Company Broncoflex© Vortex, Pentax® Medical ONE Pulmo™, and Vathin® H-SteriscopeTM (all 2.8 mm inner dimension other than the Pentax single-use flexible bronchoscope (3 mm)) was undertaken including measurement of maximal flexion and extension angles, thumb force required and suction with and without biopsy forceps. Thereafter, preclinical assessment was performed with data collected including experience, gender, hand size, and scope preference.

Results

The Vathin single-use flexible bronchoscope had the biggest range of tip movement from flexion to extension with and without forceps. The Boston single-use flexible bronchoscope required the maximal thumb force but had the least reduction of tip movement with forceps. The Boston single-use flexible bronchoscope significantly outperformed all other scopes including the standard Pentax scope and was the only scope capable of suctioning pseudo-mucus around the forceps. Although there was no significant difference in preference in the overall group, females and those with smaller hand size preferred the Pentax and males the Broncoflex single-use flexible bronchoscope.

Conclusions

Currently available single-use flexible bronchoscopes differ in several factors other than scope sizes and monitor including suction, turning envelope, and handle size. Performance in the clinical setting will be key to their success.
Neural adaptive braking control for single rope winding hoisting systems with disturbance compensation
Authors: Xie Hui , Tang Yu , Shen Gang , Li Xiang
Published: January 2023

In the braking control of single rope winding hoisting systems (SRWHS), reasonable braking torque is of great significance in reducing the probability of significant hidden dangers such as overwinding, overspeeding, rope breaking, vibration, conveyance crash and so on. However, dynamic nonlinearity, time-varying disturbances, mechanical dynamic uncertainties and measurement noise severely affect the practical braking control performance. To address those problems, a neural adaptive braking torque controller with disturbance compensation is developed to enhance the braking performance for a single rope winding hoisting system in this paper. Firstly, considering the elastic of steel wire rope, the nonlinear braking model of the SRWHS is established using Lagrange equations and an extended state observer (ESO) is introduced to estimate the system’s unmeasured states and modelling error. Next, a neural adaptive controller is developed to estimate and compensate the mechanical dynamical disturbances resulted from friction forces and random external disturbances. Then, a neural adaptive network controller combined with the ESO (ESONAC) is designed to solve the modelling nonlinearity, time-varying disturbances and system’s unmeasurable states. Finally, the advantages of the ESONAC in improving the braking control performance of winding hoisting systems is verified by comparative experiments.
Building common understandings of urban inequalities to generate relevant solutions in Lima, Peru
Authors: Desmaison Belen , Ramírez Corzo Nicolini Daniel , Rivero Luis Rodríguez
Published: January 2023

In this article, we analyse the structural causes of inequality in Lima – beginning with a review of the historical context – to propose a multidimensional approach to urban inequality. We discuss spatial, public-institutional and political-social fragmentation and how these factors contribute to the reproduction of urban inequality. We supplement this discussion by describing two initiatives that contributed to the creation of a collective understanding of inequality and strategies to deal with it. First, we worked with marginalized social groups promoting collective care practices to address food insecurity resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with this, we developed a National Housing and Urban Planning Policy with the Peruvian Ministry of Housing, Construction and Sanitation that included a definition of urban inequality and the creation of an index for urban inequality. In each case, we discuss the difficulties faced, whether by citizens or the state, in trying to reach relevant solutions to address inequalities.
The Impact of Social Media Platforms ‘Facebook and Instagram’ in Influencing Purchasing Behaviour of Green Products
Authors: Tazeen Farah , Mullick N.H.
Published: January 2023

The main goal is to investigate the impact on consumers’ purchase habits for green goods influenced by social media sites Facebook and Instagram. The article looks at the consumption behaviours of green products and how these social media platforms have helped increase awareness and support for marketing green products. The article involved data collection from a sample of 201 participants in Delhi, India. Data collection, as well as analysis techniques, were used to derive results from the data collected. In this study, A structural equation model was developed. It is clear from the data analyzed that platforms for social media, that is (Instagram and Facebook) have a substantial impact on the purchasing behaviours of green products. The study further measured the usage of channels for social media between the study samples to establish the effect of using social media to promote green products. Additionally, existing social media users are more likely to come across green products and develop a need to use the products. From the study, social media platforms influence the purchasing and consumption behaviours of users’ on green products.
Awareness of Social Security Measures and the Challenges Faced by Women Workers in the Informal Sector of Jharkhand
Authors: Mishra Priya
Published: January 2023

This article attempts to review the challenges faced by women in various industries in the informal sector in the Ranchi, Dhanbad and Khunti districts of Jharkhand and their level of awareness of the existing social security measures. It is based on primary date collected from respondents from these districts. It analyses variables related to awareness and conditions of work including awareness of social security measures, working hours per day, weekly off, internal complaints committee, maternity benefits, sanitary facility available in the work place, awareness about minimum wages and equal pay for equal work. The study concludes that women work in unhygienic conditions, are paid less and are made to work more without getting the due respect and remuneration.
Optimal design of Udwadia–Kalaba theory-based adaptive robust control for permanent magnet linear synchronous motor
Authors: Wang Faliang , Chen Ke , Zhen Shengchao , Zheng Hongmei , Chen Xiaofei , Chen Feng
Published: January 2023

The control performance of permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (PMLSM) is limited by uncertainty. The uncertainty is bounded by an unknown bound and may be time-varying. The boundary information of uncertainty is unknown but can be described by fuzzy set theory. To mitigate the impact of uncertainty on control performance, this paper proposes a Udwadia–Kalaba theory-based adaptive robust control (UKBARC). The proposed controller contains a Udwadia–Kalaba theory-based controller and an adaptive robust controller. In the Udwadia–Kalaba theory-based controller, the expected trajectory is taken as the expected constraint, and then the control task is converted to make the expected constraint be followed. Additionally, the adaptive robust controller is introduced to handle the system uncertainty without requiring the boundary information of uncertainty. The Lyapunov method is used to show that the performance of uniform boundedness (UB) and uniform ultimate boundedness (UUB) for the PMLSM system is guaranteed. The objective function used to characterize the trade-off between performance and control cost can be derived based on the fuzzy description of uncertainty. Thus, the optimal design of UKBARC (OUKBARC) can be achieved by minimizing the objective function. Simulation and experiment results together verify that high precision motion control can be ensured by using the proposed approach.
Performance-based active controller design for nonlinear structures using modified black hole optimization
Authors: Yaghoobi Saber , Fadali M Sami , Pekcan Gokhan
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a novel approach that facilitates the design of active controllers to mitigate seismically induced damage in structural systems. The proposed method is based on stochastic Modified Black Hole optimization algorithm. Two traditional controllers, namely Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) and Linear–Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controllers were designed, and their performance was demonstrated on a benchmark 20-story steel-framed building. Evaluation criteria were defined to satisfy constraints on various response quantities, including drift, base shear, ductility, residual story drift, and control force. The constraint limits were defined in view of performance-based design requirements for the benchmark structure. The performance of the controllers was contrasted with that of traditional LQG, and significant reductions of all response quantities were achieved for design-level earthquakes.
Online Harassment and Hate Among Media Professionals: Reactions to One’s Own and Others’ Victimization
Authors: Celuch Magdalena , Latikka Rita , Oksa Reetta , Oksanen Atte
Published: January 2023

This study investigated the experiences of Finnish media professionals with online harassment. Participants ( N = 695) answered a survey including questions concerning their experiences with online harassment and a survey experiment involving a death threat received by someone else. Results showed that closeness to the victim was associated with increased anxiety levels, but it did not affect countermeasures recommendations for the victim. Victims’ reactions depended on their visibility in the public sphere and on the frequency and severity of the harassment. The results demonstrate that online harassment is prevalent among media professionals and that prevention and intervention are crucial.
Connecting Australian Masculinities and Culture to Mental Health: Men’s Perspectives and Experiences
Authors: Sharp Paul , Oliffe John L. , Bottorff Joan L. , Rice Simon M. , Schulenkorf Nico , Caperchione Cristina M.
Published: January 2023

Masculinities and culture are intertwined and have significant implications for men’s mental health. This study aimed to explore influences of Australian masculinities and culture on men’s mental health. Five focus groups were conducted with men ( N = 43) living in New South Wales, Australia. Three overarching themes were identified: (1) a history of strength and self-reliance: taketh as we are, she’ll be right, (2) social and geographical divides: surrounded by men but never actually connecting, and (3) male socialisation and generational dissidence: not getting the wisdom from the men that have gone before me. Participants’ perspectives and experiences offer a reference point and lens for understanding challenges and enhancing efforts to promote Australian men’s mental health. Gender transformative program strategies are proposed to promote men’s mental health and help-seeking.
Development and evaluation of the sandwich open-hole flexure test
Authors: Stanfield Marcus L , Kuramoto Bradley , Adams Daniel O
Published: January 2023

An open-hole flexure test method has been developed to assess the notch sensitivity of sandwich composites under flexural loading. This test method, recently standardized as ASTM D8453, utilizes the current long beam four-point flexure fixture with the addition of a centrally-located open through-hole in the standard specimen. Previous research has identified an open-hole diameter that minimized finite-width effects while producing a statistically significant reduction in strength. Finite element analyses focused on quantifying interaction between the open-hole stress concentration and the load span length, hole location tolerance, and misalignment of the specimen and fixture. The effect of non-linear geometry due to large deflection was investigated and limits prescribed for linear geometry assumptions to remain valid. The sandwich configurations investigated consisted of a Nomex honeycomb core and carbon/epoxy facesheet laminates with a range of material orthotropy ratios. A series of mechanical tests were performed to evaluate the proposed specimen design, and the existing test fixture and procedure. The first set of experiments were performed to assess the notched strength sensitivity to the load span length. A second set of experiments assessed the effect of different core densities and thicknesses.
Sarcoidosis Mimicking a Malignant Metastatic Disease
Authors: El Hasbani Georges , El Saghir Nagi , Moukaddam Hicham , Farhat Lama , Shabb Nina , Uthman Imad
Published: January 2023

Sarcoidosis can have pulmonary and extrapulmonary clinical manifestations depending on the organ of involvement. Because multiple organs are involved by the disease, sarcoid can mimic metastatic diseases. Whenever clinical and radiological clues of metastasis are present, differentials other than cancer should not be missed. Herein, we present a case of a middle aged gentleman who presented to the oncology clinic for 1-month history of low back pain associated with a dry cough along with radiological findings of metastatic disease involving the lungs, liver, lymph nodes, axial spine, and adrenal gland. A biopsy of the liver lesion showed non-caseating granuloma. Elevated blood levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme confirmed the diagnosis of sarcoidosis.
Factors related to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Denmark: A national study in the autumn of 2021
Authors: Rosenkilde Siri , Ekholm Ola , Møller Sanne P. , Nielsen Maj Britt D. , Thygesen Lau C.
Published: January 2023

Aims:

The novelty of the COVID-19 pandemic and fast-developed vaccines may increase concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine and thereby influence vaccine hesitancy. The aims of this study were to examine (a) the main reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and (b) factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.

Methods:

A nationwide survey was conducted in the autumn of 2021 when most Danes had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. The sample ( N=13,570) was based on a random selection of individuals (⩾15 years), and data were collected via self-administered mailed questionnaires (digital and physical). The participants were asked whether they had been vaccinated against COVID-19, and if they had not, they were asked about their reasons for vaccine hesitancy. Logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with vaccine hesitancy.

Results:

In all, 5,384 (39.7%) individuals completed the questionnaire. The main reasons for vaccine hesitancy were worries about adverse effects (57.6%) and the belief that natural immunity is better than vaccination (43.8%). Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy included female sex, younger age, being divorced, a country of origin other than Denmark, lower educational level, being unemployed, previously infected with COVID-19 and being worried to a greater extent about oneself and others getting infected. Mental health indicators were not associated with vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusions:

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is likely to pose a challenge for population immunity. To reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination uptake, future vaccination programmes should focus on specific socio-demographic subgroups identified in this study.
The role of community trust for compliance with the Swedish COVID-19 immunisation programme
Authors: Mankell Anna , Abdelzadeh Ali
Published: January 2023

Background and aims:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination as an important and engaging topic once again entered the public debate in many countries, including Sweden. In particular, the varying degree to which different social groups tend to choose to get vaccinated was raised as a point of discussion on the agenda. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of various forms of trust, especially community trust, in the explanation of vaccine coverage in the Swedish COVID-19 immunisation programme.

Methods:

In this study, individual survey data from the Swedish Trust Barometer were aggregated and combined with socio-demographic register-based data at Regional Statistical Areas (RegSO) to examine the relationship between trust and vaccine coverage at the local community level.

Results:

The results showed that both generalised and institutional trust seemed to be essential when it comes to explaining vaccination coverage. In addition, we showed that community trust, that is, trust in neighbours and people living in the neighbourhood, was an even stronger factor when it comes to explaining vaccination coverage at the local level.

Conclusions:

This article contributes to the literature on trust in relation to health care by identifying a new dimension of trust with significance to immunisation that is worthy of future scholarly attention.
Outline of a theory of breakage
Authors: Vindrola-Padrós Bruno
Published: January 2023

Much of the debate in archaeological theory throughout the last decades has revolved around challenging problematic humanist principles that have shaped our discipline, particularly the idea that humans are masters over nature. Postprocessualists sought, among other things, to emancipate the human condition from this essentialist claim in part by exposing the historical and cultural situatedness of this humanist principle – an epistemological endeavour. In comparison, posthumanists have animated the material world (albeit in different ways) to decentre human beings in relation to long-forsaken nonhumans – an ontological agenda. While posthumanists accuse postprocessualists of practicing anthropocentrism and the latter accuse the former of occupying an ahumanist and anti-epistemological position, there are powerful commonalities in their critique of late humanist doctrines. The aim of this paper is to introduce a theory that exposes the illusory humanist claim of human control over nature and to recognise other forces with momentum besides human will, while at the same time giving prominence to questions about human knowledge and practice. Therefore, a connection is formed between postprocessualism and posthumanism and, as an ironic result, a theory of breakage is formulated. When we consider human participation with breakage, defined as those continuous and uncontrollable phenomena involving the unbinding of object form, we come to terms with a different form of anthropological understanding termed ‘the social knowledge of breakage’. This constitutes an embodied form of knowledge, which is acquired and expressed practically from a young age about how objects break and how one must respond to these situations. This knowledge is exposed in both mundane and ceremonial practices, in linguistic and non-linguistic forms, shaping social practices in uncertain ways, and can be analysed according to three different strands. In this way, we become aware of the creative ways in which broken materials inadvertently affect our practices.
The rise of the reflexive expert? Epistemic, care-ful and instrumental reflexivity in global public policy
Authors: Bandola-Gill Justyna , Grek Sotiria , Tichenor Marlee
Published: January 2023

The production of data and numbers has become the key mechanism of both knowing and governing global public policy. And yet, processes of quantification are inherently paradoxical: from expectations of technocratic rationality and political usability of producing ‘global’ numbers that count for ‘local’ politics and needs to practical limitation of measurement and the necessity to work with ‘good enough’ data. This begs a question – how do these competing epistemic, political and value orders manifest themselves through the work that experts do? In this article, we explore the problem by focussing on reflexivity as a way for experts (primarily those working in key International Organisations) to make sense of and tame the tensions inherent in their work. Through rich qualitative exploration of over 80 semi-structured interviews with experts working in the areas of poverty, education and statistical capacity development, we contribute to debates in the social studies of quantification by arguing that reflexivity is not just a mental process that experts engage in but rather an important resource allowing them to make sense of the contradictions inherent in their work and to mobilise political and ethical considerations in the technocratic process of producing numbers. We identify three types of reflexivity: (1) epistemic reflexivity – regarding the quality of data and its epistemic status as reflecting the reality; (2) care-ful reflexivity – regarding values embedded in data and the duty of care to the populations affected by the measurement and (3) instrumental reflexivity – regarding political rationality and necessary trade-off required to realise political goals. Overall, the article argues that reflexivity becomes an increasingly central expert practice, allowing the transformation of the process of quantification into one of qualification enabling them to attach political attributes and values to data and measurement.
Dose Dependence of the Separate and Combined Impact of Copper-Oxide and Selenium-Oxide Nanoparticles on Oxygen Consumption by Cells In Vitro With or Without the Background Action of Some Modulators of the Mitochondrial Respiratory Function
Authors: Bushueva Tatiana V. , Panov Vladimir G. , Minigalieva Ilzira A. , Privalova Larisa I. , Vedernikova Maria S. , Gurvich Vladimir B. , Sutunkova Marina P. , Katsnelson Boris A.
Published: January 2023

We had previously demonstrated on various stable cell cultures exposed to chemically different nanoparticles when assessing their cytotoxicity by different outcomes, dose-response relationships may be either monotonic or non-monotonic falling within an extended understanding of the hormesis paradigm. Presently, on human fibroblasts exposed to the copper-oxide and/or selenium-oxide nanoparticles, we assessed their cytotoxic effect by the inhibition of oxygen uptake against modulating the respiratory function of mitochondria (oligomycin, followed by carbonyl cyanide-4-(trifluoromethoxy) phenylhydrazone, and, finally, rotenone with antimycin A). It is hypothesized that a given type of this relationship is closely associated with the mitochondrial respiratory function. However, in only one case, this hypothesis was confirmed by finding that the monotonic dose-response relationship transformed into a non-monotonic one of the hormesis type under exposure to SeO-NP with the mitochondrial respiratory function fully inhibited by the effect of rotenone + antimycin А. In all other variants of the experiment, the shape of this relationship did not depend on the addition of the above agents to the cell culture. Neither did the effect of these modulators change the pattern of combined action of CuO-NP and SeO-NP, which was additive in all cases.
Thermophoretic particle deposition in Carreau-Yasuda fluid over chemical reactive Riga plate
Authors: Abbas Munawar , Khan Nargis , Shehzad Sabir Ali
Published: January 2023

Marangoni convection is very useful in coating flow technology, surfactant replacement therapy for neonatal children, microfluidics, drying of semi-conductor vapors in microelectronics, foams, and film drainage in emulsions. The behavior of gyrotactic microorganisms and chemical reaction on the Marangoni convected Carreau-Yasuda liquid flowing over Riga plate with thermophoretic particle deposition is reported in this research. The Riga plate is self-possessed of magnets and electrodes. The fluid conducted electricity and the vertical Lorentz force has been exponentially increased. Thermal and mass species phenomena are investigated within the context of Dufour and Soret impacts. The PDEs are transformed into ODEs by the implication of suitable transformations. The resulting system of equations is solved by using homotopy analysis method (HAM). Using tables and graphs, the effects of dimensionless parameters on flow fields are described. The wall drag coefficient and pertinent flow rates are organized and stated. The results revealed that the temperature, concentration, and microorganisms profiles decay but the velocity profile augmented as the Marangoni ratio parameter increases.
A Comparison of Social Exclusion Towards People with Depression or Chronic Back Pain
Authors: Roberts-West Lucy , Gravatt Amy , Guest Natasha , Hunt Ashley , Siddique Laraib , Serbic Danijela
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Research comparing mental and physical health stigma is scarce. The aim of this study was to compare social exclusion towards hypothetical males and females with depression or chronic back pain. Furthermore, the study investigated whether social exclusion is associated with participant’s empathy and personality traits, while controlling for their sex, age and personal exposure to mental/physical chronic health conditions.

Design

This study employed a cross-sectional questionnaire design.

Methods

Participants ( N = 253) completed an online vignette-based questionnaire and were randomly allocated to either a depression or chronic back pain study condition. Measures of social exclusion through respondents’ willingness to interact with hypothetical individuals, empathy and the Big Five personality traits were completed.

Results

Willingness to interact scores did not significantly differ depending on the diagnosis or sex of the hypothetical person in the vignette. For depression, higher levels of conscientiousness significantly predicted less willingness to interact. Whilst being a female participant and having higher empathy significantly predicted greater willingness to interact. For chronic back pain, higher empathy significantly predicted greater willingness to interact, with no significant predictors found from the Big Five personality traits.

Conclusion

Findings indicate that females and males with depression or chronic back pain face similar levels of social exclusion, with empathy being a core variable driving social exclusion behaviours. These findings enhance our understanding of potential variables driving social exclusion, in-turn informing campaign development to reduce public stigma towards depression and chronic back pain.
Adolescent Social Communication Through Smartphones: Linguistic Features of Internalizing Symptoms and Daily Mood
Authors: McNeilly Elizabeth A. , Mills Kathryn L. , Kahn Lauren E. , Crowley Ryann , Pfeifer Jennifer H. , Allen Nicholas B.
Published: January 2023

Adolescents’ increasing use of smartphone technology has led to unprecedented opportunities to identify early indicators of shifting mental health. This intensive longitudinal study examined the extent to which differences in mental health and daily mood are associated with digital social communication in adolescence. In a sample of 30 adolescents (ages 11–15 years), we analyzed 22,152 messages from social media, email, and texting across 1 month. Lower daily mood was associated with linguistic features reflecting self-focus and reduced temporal distance. Adolescents with lower daily mood tended to send fewer positive emotion words on a daily basis and more total words on low-mood days. Adolescents with lower daily mood and higher depression symptoms tended to use more future-focus words. Dynamic linguistic features of digital social communication that relate to changes in mental states may be a novel target for passive detection of risk and early intervention in adolescence.