bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allium shahinii: a new species of A. sect. Scorodon (Amaryllidaceae) from Turkey

Authors: EKŞİ GÜLNUR , DUMAN HAYRİ
Published: October 2020

Allium shahinii, a new species of Allium sect. Scorodon, is described and illustrated from Erzincan Province, Eastern Turkey. It is a narrowly distributed geophyte growing on siliceous screes of warm exposure in mountain ranges of the nemoral and thermophilous deciduous woodland zone, showing close morphological relationships mainly with A. moschatum, A. stocksianum, A. spirophyllum, A. circumflexum but it is clearly differentiated due to perigon, outer tunic, indumentum, leaf and scape characteristics. In this study, diagnostic characters, description, taxonomic comments, photographs, distribution map, detailed illustration, the conservation status of A. shahinii and identification key are provided for A. shahinii and related taxa. According to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, A. shahinii is assessed here as a Critically Endangered (CR) species.
Five new species of Phalangopsis Serville, 1831 (Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae) from Brazilian caves in the Amazon Forest
Authors: JUNTA VITOR GABRIEL PEREIRA , CASTRO-SOUZA RODRIGO ANTÔNIO , FERREIRA RODRIGO LOPES
Published: October 2020

The current work presents the description of five new cricket species for the genus Phalangopsis Serville, 1831 found in Brazilian caves in the Amazonas, Mato Grosso and Pará states, northern Brazil. The morphology of the phallic complex was used as the main criterion for distinguishing the species. In addition, we present data on the natural history and ecology of the new species as well as hypothesis about the variations of tegmina size in relation to the subterranean lifestyle for the genus. Finally, we provide a pictorial key based on adult males for the Phalangopsis species.
A remarkable Newportia from the Colombian Andes, with the proposition of a new subgenus (Scolopendromorpha, Scolopocryptopidae, Newportiinae)
Authors: TULANDE-M ESTEBAN , PRADO CÉSAR CAMILO , JIMÉNEZ SEBASTIÁN GALVIS , CHAGAS-JR AMAZONAS
Published: October 2020

A new monotypic subgenus Newportia (Andeocryptops) subgen. n is described based on 18 specimens of N. (A.) shelleyi sp. n. This form is endemic to the Colombian Andes showing the following unique combination of morphological features: very short and thin, a cylindrical and not segmented ultimate tarsus 2, a “spinning-spur” (see below) on the ultimate tarsus 1, short paramedian sutures close to the anterior and posterior margins of cephalic plate, a tibial lateral spur and a glandular pore fields in the ultimate femur. An identification key to the Newportia subgenera, as well as a key to the Ectonocryptops, Ectonocryptoides and Andeocryptops species are included.
Revision of the Nearctic species of Ditomyia Winnertz and a new species from the Neotropical Region (Diptera: Ditomyiidae)
Authors: FITZGERALD SCOTT J.
Published: October 2020

The Nearctic species of Ditomyia Winnertz (Diptera: Ditomyiidae) are revised and four species are recognized: D. euzona Loew and D. potomaca Fisher from the eastern Nearctic and D. sohnsi n. sp. and D. elongata n. sp. from the western Nearctic. All species are figured and a key provided. Additionally, the first known Neotropical Ditomyia is described and the generic limits of Ditomyia discussed.
A new species of Pheraeus Godman, 1900 (Hesperiidae, Hesperiini, Moncina) restricted to Rio Doce Valley, Brazil
Authors: SARAIVA ISABELLA M. , CARNEIRO EDUARDO , CASAGRANDE MIRNA M. , MIELKE OLAF H.H.
Published: October 2020

A new species of Pheraeus Godman, 1900, P. guandu Saraiva, Carneiro, Mielke & Casagrande sp. nov., restricted to the Rio Doce Valley (Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil) is described. Adults of the new species are illustrated and compared with phenotypically closest species, Pheraeus argynnis (Plötz, 1884), together with the diagnostic characters present in the male and female genitalia. This new species is here solely described because it is known to occur in a restricted region crossed by the Rio Doce. This region has been extensively transformed in recent decades by agriculture, livestock, construction of hydroelectric and tailing dams, and more recently by a dam failure, thus potentially impacting the habitat of this species.
Microvesicles Secreted by Human Embryonic Stem Cell Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Regeneration of Sprague-Dawley Rat Sciatic Nerve
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ma Yongbin , Wang Hui , Gao Jianyi , Ye Kai , Chen Tianyan , Yu Jiahong , Tang Bin , Ramalingam Murugan , Hu Jiabo
Published: October 2020

Peripheral nerve injure seriously endangers human health and new methods involving stem cells are currently being developed, these cells may exert their function primarily through secretory microvesicles (MVs) and various small molecules. MVs have become the key mediators of intercellular
communication. In this study, MVs secreted by human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hESC-MSC-MVs) were isolated by ultracentrifugation. A Sprague-Dawley rat model of sciatic nerve crush injury was established with 36 Sprague-Dawley rats. Efficacy evaluations including rat
footprint test, the HE staining of nerve fibers and the HE staining of gastrocnemius muscle fibers were conducted two weeks after the injection of hESC-MSC-MVs through caudal vein. Results showed that hESC-MSC-MVs obviously had an effect of nerve injury repair and inhibited the denervation
atrophy of gastrocnemius muscles. This implied that hESC-MSC-MVs with great regenerative properties might offer an alternative therapeutic option for treating peripheral neuropathy.
Promoting Axonal Extension and Repair After Spinal Cord Injury by Inhibiting the Expression of Rho Gene Based on RNA Interference
Authors: Yu Bo , Zhang Hongmei , Hong Jun , Lu Yonggang , Zhang Yajun
Published: October 2020

Spinal cord injury causes central nervous system damage. Rho inhibits axonal regeneration. This study is intended to analyze the effect of inhibition of Rho expression on axonal repair. The oligodendrocytes were isolated and divided into NC group and shRNA-RhoA group followed by analysis
of the average length of axon growth and average microtubule fluorescence density by immunofluorescence, Nogo, MAG and RhoA expression were by Real time PCR. Wistar rats were separated into control group; SCI group and shRNA-RhoA group followed by analysis of the BBB scores and the Reuter
score of sensory function, RhoA expression by Real time PCR and Western blot, Caspase3 activity as well as Nogo and MAG expression by Real time PCR. Compared with NC group, shRNA-RhoA group showed significantly increased average length of axon growth and average microtubule fluorescence density
at the distal axon and reduced expression of RhoA, Nogo and MAG (P < 0 05). In comparison to control group, SCI group presented significantly increased RhoA expression, decreased BBB score, increased Reuter score and Caspase3 activity as well as elevated Nogo and MAG expression (P <
0 05). The shRNA-RhoA group significantly decreased RhoA expression, increased BBB score, decreased Reuter score and Caspase3 activity, and reduced Nogo and MAG expression compared with SCI group (P < 0 05). Inhibiting RhoA expression can promote axon extension and regenerative repair.
Targeting RhoA reduces axon growth inhibitory factor expression, inhibits apoptosis and effectively alleviates SCI.
Long Noncoding RNA DLIC Reduces Inflammation, Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Lung Epithelial Cells Induced by Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)
Authors: Shi Yanhua , Chen Qiufang , Chen Jing
Published: October 2020

The effective improvement of acute lung injury (ALI) plays an important role in reducing the mortality of sepsis. LncRNA was expressed abnormally in inflammatory diseases and restoration of lncRNA could improve the inflammatory injury. However, the protective effects of DLIC on ALI,
as well as the regulatory mechanism of DLIC in ALI are still unknown. LPS-induced lung epithelial cells were constructed in vitro to simulate the ALI model. The expression of DLIC in lung epithelial cells and DLIC transfection effects were analyzed by RT-qPCR analysis. The cell viability
and cell apoptosis were respectively detected by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis. The expression of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress factors was determined by the commercial assay kits. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins and TLR4/NF-κB pathway-related proteins
was analyzed by western blot analysis. As a result, DLIC expression was decreased in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells. DLIC overexpression improved the cell viability and inhibited the apoptosis of LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells with the changes of protein expression. DLIC overexpression alleviated the
inflammation and oxidative stress by depressing the levels of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress factors. Furthermore, DLIC overexpression inhibited TLR4/NF-κ B pathway. In conclusion, DLIC reduces inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells by suppressing
TLR4/NF-κB pathway.
Myocardial Patch Formation by Three-Dimensional Culture of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells with 3-Hydroxybutyrate-Co-4-Hydroxybutyrate Under Hypoxia
Authors: Junsheng Mu , Kun Tian , Fan Zhou , Ping Bo
Published: October 2020

Herein we researched the effects of a hypoxic microenvironment on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) on poly 3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate [P(3HB-co-4HB)] and present a theoretical basis for development of cell transplantation. Mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
were isolated by whole bone marrow culture and surface antigens were analyzed by flow cytometry of passage 5 cells. P(3HB-co-4HB) and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were prepared as stem cell patches randomly divided into normoxia (control, 20% oxygen) and hypoxia (3% oxygen) groups. After
24 h, the patch was used for experiments. Cell proliferation was determined by CCK-8 assays. Adhesion, survival, and growth of cells on patches were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) was tested by real-time quantitative
PCR and western blotting. At 2 weeks after addition of cardiomyocyte differentiation inducer 5-azacytidine, cardiac troponin T (cTnT) expression was detected by immunofluorescence. After 24 h, the proliferation of the hypoxic group was considerably greater compared with the normoxic group
(n = 12,P < 0 05). SEM demonstrated that the number of viable cells in the hypoxic group was higher than that in the normoxic group. Adhesion between cells and the patch was firm and cell morphology was normal in the hypoxic group. Significant upregulation of HIF-1α mRNA was observed
by real-time quantitative PCR after 12 h (P < 0 05). HIF-1αprotein expression in the hypoxia group was considerably higher than that in the normoxia group. cTnT expression in the hypoxic group was more pronounced than that in the normoxic group. Our results show that a hypoxic microenvironment
promotes the adhesion, survival, proliferation, and myocardial differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on a P(3HB-co-4HB) patch, which may be mediated by the HIF-1α; pathway.
Influences of Periodontal Tissue Regeneration Combined with Orthodontics on Inflammatory Microenvironment, Osteocalcin Level, and Stability and Outcome of Offending Teeth in Periodontitis
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Li Jing , Yang Xuan , Xu Baohua
Published: October 2020

Objective: To assess periodontal tissue regeneration combined with orthodontics' effect on the inflammatory microenvironment, osteocalcin level, and masticatory function and stability of offending teeth in periodontitis as well as its overall clinical therapeutic effect. Methods:
80 patients with periodontitis treated in our hospital were enrolled and separated into observation group (n = 40) (periodontal tissue regeneration combined with orthodontic therapy) and control group (n = 40) (orthodontic therapy). All patients were followed up for 12 weeks. Inflammatory
cytokines in the culture supernatant of periodontal cells and masticatory function of offending teeth in both groups after treatment were measured, and osteocalcin level and stability of offending teeth in both groups were evaluated before treatment, and at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after treatment.
Moreover, the overall therapeutic effects were recorded, such as tooth loosening, subjective symptoms and performing function. Results: At 12 weeks after treatment, the levels of TNF-α , IL-6 and IL-1 in observation group were significantly reduced compared to control group (p
< 0 05), and the masticatory function of offending teeth was superior to control (p < 0 05). At 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after treatment, the osteocalcin level and stability of offending teeth in observation group were better (p < 0 05). In terms of overall therapeutic effect, observation
group presented significantly lower proportion of tooth loosening and superior scores of subjective symptoms and performing function of offending teeth (p < 0 05). Conclusion: Periodontal tissue regeneration combined with orthodontic therapy can effectively reduce the local inflammation
and improve the masticatory function of patients with periodontitis. At 2 weeks after treatment, the osteocalcin level and stability of offending teeth are significantly improved, with a satisfactory clinical therapeutic effect.
Investigating a Novel Design Dental Implant by Using Finite Element Analysis and Experimental Setup
Authors: Sen Yasar
Published: October 2020

Objectives: In this study, dental implants with three different tooth pitch are designed and tested under static loads and fatigue analysis. In order to reveal the strengths of the different implant designs in dental implant application, the experimental setup where real physical
environments were created experimental data was obtained, and these data were compared with numerical data. Materials and Methods: It is difficult to find an analytical solution for problems involving complex geometries. For this reason, numerical methods such as finite element analysis
(FEA) are used. For compared finite element results and experimental analysis a new experimental setup has been created to simulate the physical conditions inside the mouth. In this arrangement, the temperature is close to ideal with the acidic environment inside the mouth. Firstly, the geometrical
implant system determined on the CNC machine was produced. Results and Conclusion: In this study, dental implant research with 3 different screw pitch was performed. The results obtained from the experimental results were compared with the results obtained from the numerical analysis
and it was observed that the accuracy of the numerical analysis was approximately 95%. It was observed that the tensions were less in the dental implant with higher number of screw pitch. In terms of the difficulty of experimental studies, finite element analysis saved both time and money.
Thanks to this method, different scenarios can be applied to the optimum design of the dental implant and it can be designed in a computer environment before applying to the patient.
Development of Moxifloxacin Hydrochloride Thermoreversible Ocular Delivery System for the Treatment of Conjunctivitis
Authors: Huang Jing , Cui Yong , Sun Chunting , Liu Xinyan
Published: October 2020

The present investigation deals with formulation and development of novel ophthalmic in situ gel formulation of Moxifloxacin in order to treat common disorder of conjunctivitis. The formulation contains combination of two polymers like Poloxamer 4–7 and chitosan both help
in sustaining and increasing the drug release as well as retention time of drug at contact site. Thus developed formulation was evaluated for various parameters. The moxifloxacin in situ gel was found to be clear with ph in range of 6.8–7.0. The gelling time was also found to
be quick with prolong retention up to 8 hrs. The optimized batch showed maximum release of 99.98% and was found to have sustained action when compared to marketed ophthalmic eye drop formulation. The formulation of Ophthalmic Thermosensitive in situ gel for Moxifloxacin was successfully
prepared using Polymer combination of Poloxamer 407 and chitosan and found effective in the treatment of Conjunctivitis.
Saturation Dependence of Flame Thermometry Using Mid-IR Degenerate Four Wave Mixing
Authors: Pedersen Rasmus L. , Sahlberg Anna-Lena , Hot Dina , Li Zhongshan
Published: October 2020

It has previously been demonstrated that the ratio of the degenerate four wave mixing signal from two hot water line groups near 3231 cm–1 can be used for seedless flame temperature measurements. This paper presents an investigation of the impact of saturation effects on the measured signal intensity from each line group, as well as an estimation of the accuracy of the method. The saturation effects observed here would result in a large systematic error if they are not taken into account when using the degenerate four-wave mixing intensity of these water line groups to calculate the flame temperature.
The impact of mathematics anxiety on self-regulated learning and mathematical literacy
Authors: Gabriel Florence , Buckley Sarah , Barthakur Abhinava
Published: October 2020

Self-regulated learning has been shown to have a positive and long-lasting impact on students’ academic development, employability and career progression. Emotions, motivation and metacognition play an important role in students’ ability to monitor and regulate their learning, particularly when studying and engaging with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics content. In this study, we investigated motivational, emotional and cognitive factors involved in self-regulated learning and their role in mathematics learning. Specifically, we analysed the impact of mathematics anxiety and self-regulated learning on mathematical literacy using the Australian subset of Programme for International Student Assessment 2012. Mathematics anxiety is a barrier to mathematical learning and is thought to hinder students’ engagement and the efficiency of their metacognitive processes. Using structural equation modelling, we showed that instrumental motivation and self-concept affect mathematics anxiety, which in turn negatively impacts mathematical literacy by affecting perseverance and self-efficacy. We consider the practical implications of our results and discuss how interventions to reduce students’ mathematics anxiety will allow for the development and/or improvement of self-regulated learning skills in mathematics.
Containing Nationalism: Culture, Economics and Indirect Rule in Corsica
Authors: Siroky David S. , Mueller Sean , Fazi André , Hechter Michael
Published: October 2020

Central governments in multinational states frequently deploy indirect rule to contain peripheral nationalism. Through the exchange of economic resources for political control, local notables are co-opted into cementing loyalty to the central state. Although nationalism often has cultural roots, these can fail to bear fruit because indirect rulers prevent them from developing. When the incentives sustaining support for indirect rulers change, this can open a window of opportunity for nationalism. This article examines how culture, institutions and economics influence center-periphery relations, specifically the demand for autonomy and nationalist parties. Utilizing new, disaggregated data and an original survey from the French island of Corsica, we show that indirect rulers have managed to contain nationalist parties in culturally distinct communes, specifically those that are more dependent on public funds. Only where a thriving private sector offers alternatives to state dependence, lessening the force of indirect rule, is cultural distinctiveness associated with nationalist voting.
Availability and Differential Cost of Credit for Informal Sector Workers: Evidences from Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Khan Ghazala A
Published: October 2020

Urban debt is a less studied area. In many cases, it is a spillover of rural farm debt. As lands and assets get eroded in rural areas, urban migration takes place in search of livelihoods. People who move to cities crowd into slums, take up whatever daily employment is on offer and form the bulk of the informal or unorganised workforce in cities. Their occupations are unregulated and beyond the pale of any legal protection. With low earnings and even lower savings, they have to contend with expenses of contingent nature like major illnesses and hospitalisations as well as expenses related to weddings, deaths and other obligatory ‘social’ expenditure which leads them into a vicious cycle of debt. The nature of their work precludes loans from banks, further luring them into unregulated and usurious debt traps. This study, a part of a larger study conducted in 2014, studies the prevalence of debt among informal sector workers, examines and quantifies the major expense patterns, sources of funds and availability of credit along with cost of such credit.
Factors contributing to child sexual abuse in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: Police and perpetrators’ perspectives
Authors: Kebede Wassie , Belay Sebsib
Published: October 2020

Although child sexual abuse has been a prominent topic for more than four decades, its multidimensional causal factors remain inconclusive. The purpose of the study was to understand triggering factors leading to committing child sexual abuse. The study employed a quantitative survey design. We collected data from 21 perpetrators and 203 police officers. Delayed marriage, cultural norms and excessive alcohol consumption were triggers to committing child sexual abuse. Perpetrators knew their acts would have moral and punitive consequences. To stop child sexual abuse, community participation, strengthening community policing and automation of crime reporting were suggested actions. The study suggests that more comprehensive research should be conducted in this area.
The professionalization of social work in Israel’s Arab society
Authors: Ibrahim Mahajne , Allassad Alhuzail Nuzha , Bar-On Arnon
Published: October 2020

Social work in Israel’s indigenous Arab society developed late relative to its Jewish counterpart. Based on primary and secondary sources and semi-structured interviews with Arab social workers who were employed in social welfare bureaus during the years under review, the article describes and explains the development of social work in Israel’s Arab society in its formative years. The findings indicate this social work developed under government policies that recognized the needs of Arab society but allocated its welfare bureaus fewer resources than to the country’s Jewish society. These policies also failed to recognize the Arab narrative in welfare delivery and to incorporate Arab representation in decision-making. The relevant bodies in Israel that dealt with social work, primarily the Ministry of Welfare, used various strategies to maintain a dual system of welfare services – one for Jewish citizens and a poorer one for Arabs citizens.
Preoperative Misdiagnosis of Malignant Mucosal Melanoma of the Nasal Septum by MRI
Authors: Kim Kyung Soo , Min Hyun Jin
Published: October 2020

Malignant sinonasal mucosal melanoma is a rare and aggressive neoplasm. As it shows nonspecific clinical symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most effective diagnostic tool. Before a mass is histopathologically confirmed, MRI is regarded as the optimal differential diagnostic procedure, especially in patients who present with a unilateral sinonasal cavity mass. However, we recently treated a patient who showed atypical MRI findings, resulting in a preoperative misdiagnosis of a vascular tumor. By pathologic examination, the patient was confirmed to have a malignant mucosal melanoma that originated from the nasal septum. This case demonstrates that unilateral nasal cavity masses that present with nonspecific symptoms, such as epistaxis, should be evaluated for possible malignant neoplasms, even if the mass has benign-looking characteristics in preoperative endoscopic findings and MRI images.
Still Feeling Better? Trends in Self-Rated Health of Older Adults in the U.S
Authors: Lamidi Esther O.
Published: October 2020

Previous analyses showed an overall pattern of improvement in self-rated health of U.S. older adults in the 1980s and the 1990s, but it was uncertain if the declining shares of elderly persons reporting fair or poor health would continue over the next decades. Using the 2000–2018 pooled data from the National Health Interview Survey, this study examined recent trends in self-rated health of adults aged 45 and older. The results showed important variations in self-rated health trends across age groups. Between 2000 and 2018, the shares of adults aged 60 and above reporting fair or poor health declined significantly while self-rated health trends for middle-aged adults worsened over time. Educational and racial/ethnic differentials in self-rated health persisted over time but there were important group variations. To further improve the health of the elderly population, it is important to consider changing health disparities in later life.
Telepsychiatry and Addiction Treatment
Authors: Mohan Ashwin , Ambekar Atul
Published: October 2020

The need and the importance of telemedicine has been brought to the forefront during the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19. It has created another viable option for treatment delivery while reducing risks. However, there are major concerns regarding the delivery of services for treatment of substance use disorders using telepsychiatry. We discuss the various concerns and opportunities, the different international practices, and the Indian guidelines. We believe that there needs to be a balance between access to treatment and medication with reasonable checks and call for more patient and provider friendly practices. We also propose certain modifications in the Indian Telepsychiatry Guidelines.
Usefulness of model-based iterative reconstruction in low-dose lumbar spine CT after spine surgery with metal implant: a phantom study
Authors: Fukushima Yasuhiro , Matsuda Akira , Koizumi Koji , Honda Maya , Masamoto Kazutaka , Fujibayashi Shunsuke
Published: October 2020

Background

The major problems of computed tomography (CT) imaging include radiation exposure and severe artifacts caused by operative implants.

Purpose

To evaluate the usefulness of the metal artifact reduction algorithm and model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) in postoperative low-dose (LD) spine CT.

Material and Methods

A CT torso phantom was scanned at standard-dose (SD) and LD settings. The CT images were reconstructed by three methods: hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR); metal artifact reduction; and MBIR. The radiation dose of the phantom imaging was evaluated by volume CT dose index (mGy), dose length product (DLP, mGy × cm), and effective dose (mSv). The image quality of the six images was visually evaluated and analyzed using Scheffe’s paired comparison method. The average preference of each method was calculated based on the comparative scores. The task transfer function (TTF) and noise power spectrum for HIR and MBIR were also measured.

Results

The respective radiation-dose-related parameters of the SD and LD conditions were: volume CT dose index = 10.2 and 1.2 mGy; DLP = 277.9 and 33.9 mGy × cm; and effective dose = 4.2 and 0.5 mSv. The average preference for diagnostic acceptability of MBIR at LD was not significantly different from the other reconstructions of SD data. MBIR successfully reduced metal artifacts in the LD condition. The 10% TTF was higher for HIR at SD and higher for MBIR at LD.

Conclusion

MBIR is useful for LD spine CT after spine surgery with metal implant.
The work of hope: Spiritualizing, hustling and waiting in the creative industries in Ghana
Authors: Alacovska Ana , Langevang Thilde , Steedman Robin
Published: October 2020

This paper examines the dynamics of hope in creative industries in the city of Accra in Ghana. Building on theoretical insights from geography, anthropology and sociology that have mobilized the concept of hope as an analytical category, we examine the economic actions and entrepreneurial behaviour of creative entrepreneurs working in “precarious geographies”, i.e. locations where precarity is not a deviation from the norm but a constant and longstanding feature. Drawing on in-depth interviews, we contend that in conditions of radical and pervasive precarity, hope represents a distinct form of work in which the potentialities of the moment extend the present into the future, while the future, however hazy and unimaginable, affects the economic vitality of the present. By unpacking three dominant practices of hopeful orientation to futurity enacted by creative workers in Accra, namely hustling, waiting, and spiritualizing, we demonstrate the usefulness of hope as a concept in analysing economic action and labour dynamics.
Incidences and risk factors for post--dural puncture headache after neuraxial anaesthesia: A national inpatient database study in Japan
Authors: Makito Kanako , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: October 2020

The reported incidence of post--dural puncture headache (PDPH) after neuraxial anaesthesia varies widely, depending on patient and procedural risk factors. Most previous studies have had small sample sizes and focused on obstetric patients. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of PDPH and factors associated with PDPH in non-obstetric and obstetric patients after neuraxial anaesthesia. We identified patients who underwent surgery with neuraxial anaesthesia between July 2010 and December 2017 from a Japanese nationwide inpatient administrative claims and discharge database. Factors associated with PDPH (body mass index (BMI), depression, spinal abnormalities, academic hospital and location of epidural anaesthesia) were examined using multivariable logistic analyses. The incidence of PDPH in non-obstetric patients after spinal anaesthesia, epidural anaesthesia and combined spinal epidural anaesthesia was 0.16%, 0.13% and 0.23% and in obstetric patients was 1.16%, 0.99% and 1.05%, respectively. Higher BMI was associated with decreased incidence of PDPH in non-obstetric patients receiving spinal anaesthesia and obstetric patients receiving epidural anaesthesia. In female patients receiving spinal anaesthesia, a history of depression was associated with increased incidence of PDPH. Being in an academic hospital was associated with decreased incidence of PDPH in male patients receiving spinal anaesthesia and female patients receiving spinal or epidural anaesthesia, but increased incidence of PDPH in male patients receiving epidural anaesthesia. Lumbar epidural anaesthesia was associated with increased incidence of PDPH in male patients, but decreased incidence of PDPH in obstetric patients compared with thoracic epidural anaesthesia. The present study identified several potential new risk factors for PDPH, and revealed that the incidence of PDPH in non-obstetric patients after neuraxial anaesthesia was lower than in obstetric patients.
A theory for rotating stall in contra-rotating fans
Authors: Khaleghi Hossein , Shahriyari Mohammad Javad , Heinrich Martin
Published: October 2020

This paper reports on a theory of rotating stall in contra-rotating fans and compressors. The theory is developed from Moore’s theory. A second-order hysteresis is used in the current study for the pressure rise of the counter-rotating rows. This enables the model to predict the transient behavior of the stall cell. Comparing the experimental results with the theory shows that the modified model can predict the speed of the stall cells fairly accurately. Results show that the rotor speed ratio plays a critical role in the stall cell speed and its direction of rotation. Furthermore, the developed model makes it possible to study the effects of stagger angle and number of stall cells. The conditions under which pure rotating stall can occur in contra-rotating fans are also discussed in this paper. It is shown that the stall cells merge to form a single cell before a stable fully-developed rotating stall is established.
Difference-attuned witnessing: Risks and potentialities of arts-based research
Authors: Rice Carla , Cook Katie , Bailey K Alysse
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we interrogate notions of affect, vulnerability and difference-attuned empathy, and how they relate to bearing witness across difference—specifically, connecting through creativity, experiencing the risks and rewards of vulnerability, and witnessing the expression of difficult emotions and the recounting of affect-imbued events within an arts-based process called digital/multi-media storytelling (DST). Data for this paper consists of 63 process-oriented interviews conducted before and after participants engaged with DST in a research project focused on interrogating negative concepts of disability that create barriers to healthcare. These retrospective reflections on DST coalesce around experiences of vulnerability, relationality, and the risks associated with witnessing one’s own and others’ selective disclosures of difficult emotions and affect-laden aspects of experiences of difference. Through analysing findings from our process-oriented interviews, we offer a framework for understanding witnessing as a necessarily affective, difference-attuned act that carries both risk and transformative potential. Our analysis draws on feminist Indigenous (Maracle), Black (Nash) and affect (Ahmed) theories to frame emerging concepts of affective witnessing across difference, difference-attuned empathy, and asymmetrical vulnerability within the arts-based research process.
Pyrvinium pamoate induces in-vitro suppression of IL-6 and IL-8 produced by human endometriotic stromal cells
Authors: Karamian Amin , Paktinat Shahrokh , Esfandyari Sahar , Nazarian Hamid , Ziai Seyed Ali , Zarnani Amir-Hassan , Salehpour Saghar , Hosseinirad Hossein , Karamian Armin , Novin Marefat Ghaffari
Published: October 2020

Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is identified by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. The prevalence of this disease among reproductive-age women is almost 10–15%. High levels of IL-6 and IL-8 have been found in the peritoneal fluid (PF) of women with endometriosis and are involved in its pathogenesis. Isolated stromal cells from 12 ectopic and eutopic endometrial biopsies of women with ovarian endometrioma and also 12 endometrial biopsies of nonendometriotic controls were treated with 1.1 µM pyrvinium pamoate, a Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor, for 72 hrs. Before treatment, mRNA gene expression and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly higher in ectopic (EESCs) than eutopic (EuESCs) and control (CESCs) endometrial stromal cells. After treatment, mRNA gene expression and also secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly reduced. Our Findings showed that pyrvinium pamoate suppresses the mRNA gene expression and secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 in human endometriotic stromal cells. Additional investigations on this compound are required before clinical application.
Moral distress among nursing professors: The exercise of parrhesia
Authors: Ramos Toescher Aline Marcelino , Barlem Edison Luiz Devos , Tomaschewski Barlem Jamila Geri , Castanheira Janaína Sena , Rocha Laurelize Pereira
Published: October 2020

Background:

Mismatch between the perception of one’s moral duty and one’s real social contribution may trigger moral distress, especially when no specific resistance strategies are used to counteract morally distressing situations. Considering a philosophical-ethical conception, individuals need to first reflect upon themselves to later turn to the world and confront their current situation in order to change it.

Objectives:

To understand moral distress experienced by nursing professors teaching in higher education institutions and the use of parrhesia as a coping strategy.

Method:

This qualitative exploratory-descriptive study addressed 33 nursing professors working in Brazilian federal public universities using an open-ended question form. Data were collected between June and December 2018 and analyzed using discursive textual analysis.

Ethical considerations:

The Institutional Review Board at the Federal University of Rio Grande approved this study.

Findings:

Three categories emerged: performance of nursing professors and potentially distressing situations, the experience of moral distress, and parrhesia as a strategy to deal with moral distress. Nursing professors face situations that cause moral distress in the context of higher education, however, those who adopt parrhesia as a coping strategy find it easier to express their beliefs from the perspective of moral duty, even in the face of conflicts.

Conclusion:

When the nursing professors in this study acknowledge elements in the power structure that hinder their actions, they express parrhesia, as an essential virtue in an attempt to modify unsymmetrical power relations that can trigger moral distress.
A new ductile fracture criterion considering both shear and tension mechanisms on void coalescence
Authors: Li Xifeng , Yang Wenbing , Xu Dongkai , Ju Ke , Chen Jun
Published: October 2020

A new ductile fracture criterion is proposed based on three stages of ductile fracture: void nucleation, growth and coalescence from the microscopic viewpoint. Based on the observation of SEM fracture surfaces of AA2024-T351 aluminum alloy sheet and bar samples under different stress states, it is assumed that the void aggregation is controlled by shear or shear-tension fracture mechanism according to the stress state. And the stress triaxiality is deemed as the only influence factor for controlling the void growth. The new ductile fracture criterion applied to a wide range of stress triaxiality is built. By fitting the available testing data of AA2024-T351 aluminum alloy and AISI 1045 steel, the fracture loci in the stress triaxiality, Lode parameter and equivalent fracture strain space ([Formula: see text]) built by the new criterion are compared with those by DF2014, Hu criterion, modified Mohr-Coulomb criterion (MMC) and Hosford- Coulomb (H-C) criterion. The fitting results prove better prediction accuracy for the new criterion. To further compare the stability of these criteria, the fracture loci in the space of ([Formula: see text]) for AA2024-T351 alloy are established by only fitting five tests. The new criterion can still well predict the equivalent fracture strain ([Formula: see text]). Compared with DF2014, Hu criterion, MMC and H-C criterion, the average errors of the new criterion are reduced by 26.72%, 20.07%, 31.78% and 34.62%, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum errors are reduced by 49.62%, 27.31%, 33.76% and 29.91%, separately. Therefore, the new fracture criterion has higher prediction accuracy and better prediction stability. Last but certainly not least, the new criterion can predict more accurately under high stress triaxiality conditions.
Association Between Baseline PROMIS Scores, Patient-Provider Communication Factors, and Musculoskeletal Health Literacy on Patient and Surgeon Expectations in Foot and Ankle Surgery
Authors: MacMahon Aoife , Cody Elizabeth A. , Caolo Kristin , Henry Jensen K. , Drakos Mark C. , Demetracopoulos Constantine A. , Savenkov Aleksander , Ellis Scott J.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Various factors may affect differences between patient and surgeon expectations. This study aimed to assess associations between patient-reported physical and mental status, patient-surgeon communication, and musculoskeletal health literacy with differences in patient and surgeon expectations of foot and ankle surgery.

Methods:

Two hundred two patients scheduled to undergo foot or ankle surgery at an academic hospital were enrolled. Preoperatively, patients and surgeons completed the Hospital for Special Surgery Foot & Ankle Surgery Expectations Survey. Patients also completed Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores in Physical Function, Pain Interference, Pain Intensity, Depression, and Global Health. Patient-surgeon communication and musculoskeletal health literacy were assessed via the modified Patients’ Perceived Involvement in Care Scale (PICS) and Literacy in Musculoskeletal Problems (LiMP) questionnaire, respectively.

Results:

Greater differences in patient and surgeon overall expectations scores were associated with worse scores in Physical Function ( P = .003), Pain Interference ( P = .001), Pain Intensity ( P = .009), Global Physical Health ( P < .001), and Depression ( P = .009). A greater difference in the number of expectations between patients and surgeons was associated with all of the above ( P ≤ .003) and with worse Global Mental Health ( P = .003). Patient perceptions of higher surgeons’ partnership building were associated with a greater number of patient than surgeon expectations ( P = .017). There were no associations found between musculoskeletal health literacy and differences in expectations.

Conclusion:

Worse baseline patient physical and mental status and higher patient perceptions of provider partnership building were associated with higher patient than surgeon expectations. It may be beneficial for surgeons to set more realistic expectations with patients who have greater disability and in those whom they have stronger partnerships with. Further studies are warranted to understand how modifications in patient and surgeon interactions and patient health literacy affect agreement in expectations of foot and ankle surgery.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective comparative series.
Patient-Related Outcome Measures (PROMs) With Nonoperative and Operative Management of Morton’s Neuroma
Authors: Faulkner Alastair , Mayne Alistair , Davies Peter , Ridley David , Harrold Fraser
Published: October 2020

Background:

Morton’s neuroma is associated with chronic pain and disability. There is a paucity of literature regarding patient-related outcome measures (PROMs) in patients managed nonoperatively. We sought to investigate nonoperative and operative management of Morton’s neuroma using PROMs in patients with follow-up to 1 year.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective observational study and collected data on all patients with a new diagnosis of Morton’s neuroma treated from February 2016 until April 2018. Primary outcome measures were the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) for pain, EuroQoL (EQ) time trade-off (TTO), and EQ visual analog scale (VAS) taken preoperatively and at 52 weeks postoperatively. Forty-four patients were treated nonoperatively and 94 patients were treated operatively.

Results:

Pretreatment and 52-week scores were 55.7 and 43.10 (nonoperative) and 63.7 and 40.1 (operative) for MOXFQ (pain), 0.72 and 0.82 (nonoperative) and 0.68 and 0.82 (operative) for EQ-TTO, and 71.5 and 76.2 (nonoperative) and 73.1 and 68.7 (operative) for EQ-VAS. There was a statistically significant improvement in MOXFQ (pain) in nonoperative ( P = .02) and operative groups ( P < .001). There was a statistically significant improvement in EQ-TTO in the operative group only ( P = .01).

Conclusion:

This is the largest study investigating outcomes to 12 months of both nonoperative and operatively managed patients with Morton’s neuroma. Both nonoperative and operative management lead to symptom improvement at 12 months.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative study.
Equity, Participation, and Power
Authors: Palmquist Ben
Published: October 2020

This article explores how health governance has evolved into an enormously complicated—and inequitable and exclusionary—system of privatized, fragmented bureaucracy, and argues for addressing these deficiencies and promoting health justice by radically deepening democratic participation to rebalance decision-making power. It presents a framework for promoting four primary outcomes from health governance: universality, equity, democratic control, and accountability, which together define health justice through deep democracy. It highlights five mechanisms that hold potential to bring this empowered participatory mode of governance into health policy: participatory needs assessments, participatory human rights budgeting, participatory monitoring, public health care advocates, and citizen juries.
Social Solidarity in Health Care, American-Style
Authors: Fuse Brown Erin C. , Lawrence Matthew B. , McCuskey Elizabeth Y. , Wiley Lindsay F.
Published: October 2020

The ACA shifted U.S. health policy from centering on principles of actuarial fairness toward social solidarity. Yet four legal fixtures of the health care system have prevented the achievement of social solidarity: federalism, fiscal pluralism, privatization, and individualism. Future reforms must confront these fixtures to realize social solidarity in health care, American-style.
The Complex Cancer Care Coverage Environment — What is the Role of Legislation?
Authors: Leopold Christine , Haffajee Rebecca L. , Lu Christine Y. , Wagner Anita K.
Published: October 2020

Over the past decades, anti-cancer treatments have evolved rapidly from cytotoxic chemotherapies to targeted therapies including oral targeted medications and injectable immunooncology and cell therapies. New anti-cancer medications come to markets at increasingly high prices, and health insurance coverage is crucial for patient access to these therapies. State laws are intended to facilitate insurance coverage of anti-cancer therapies.

Using Massachusetts as a case study, we identified five current cancer coverage state laws and interviewed experts on their perceptions of the relevance of the laws and how well they meet the current needs of cancer care given rapid changes in therapies. Interviewees emphasized that cancer therapies, as compared to many other therapeutic areas, are unique because insurance legislation targets their coverage. They identified the oral chemotherapy parity law as contributing to increasing treatment costs in commercial insurance. For commercial insurers, coverage mandates combined with the realities of new cancer medications — including high prices and often limited evidence of efficacy at approval — compound a difficult situation. Respondents recommended policy approaches to address this challenging coverage environment, including the implementation of closed formularies, the use of cost-effectiveness studies to guide coverage decisions, and the application of value-based pricing concepts. Given the evolution of cancer therapeutics, it may be time to evaluate the benefits and challenges of cancer coverage mandates.
Agency, Autonomy and Euthanasia
Authors: Mendz George L. , Kissane David W.
Published: October 2020

Agency is the human capacity to freely choose one’s thoughts, motivations and actions without undue internal or external influences; it is distinguished from decisional capacity. Four well-known conditions that can deeply affect agency are depression, demoralization, existential distress, and family dysfunction. The study reviews how they may diminish agency in persons whose circumstances may lead them to consider or request euthanasia or assisted suicide. Since agency has been a relatively neglected dimension of autonomous choice at the end of life, it is argued that to respect the autonomy of individuals, it is essential to establish their agency.