bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety Impact of Automated Speed Camera Enforcement: Empirical Findings Based on Chicago’s Speed Cameras
Authors: Tilahun Nebiyou
Published: July 2022

Speeding was a factor in over a quarter of crash fatalities annually in the U.S. from 2009 to 2018. In some cities, automated speed camera enforcement is being used to curb speeding and improve roadway safety in instrumented areas. This paper reviews the effectiveness of automated speed cameras and some of the considerations informing the public debate around them in the United States. It then employs data from the City of Chicago, Illinois and the empirical Bayes approach to examine how effective speed cameras have been at reducing injury crashes and fatalities. Chicago installed most of its currently operating speed cameras in the 2013 to 2014 period. From 2015 to 2017, we estimate a 12% reduction in fatal and injury crashes across treated locations included in our analysis. Fatality and severe injury crashes declined by 15%. Some treated sites did not see the expected safety benefits, however. Recommendations to improve efficacy are made.
Pavement Marking Practices, Standards, Applications, and Retroreflectivity
Authors: Roy Uttara , Albatayneh Omar , Ksaibati Khaled
Published: July 2022

Pavement markings are important elements of roadway networks and help guide traffic flow in an orderly manner. In recent years, transportation agencies are facing challenges to manage pavement markings because of the advent of new vehicle technologies. Existing pavement marking standards were developed for serving human road users but they may not be effective for both human drivers and machine vision systems. Therefore, the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices suggested amendments to the current pavement marking standards. Therefore, it is necessary to explore pavement marking practices for a variety of states. With this aim, the Wyoming Technology Transfer Center conducted an online survey as part of a comprehensive research project on developing pavement marking management plans for the Wyoming Department of Transportation. The main objective of the survey is to document the various state Departments of Transportation (DOTs’) pavement marking management plans, how the plans are developed, strategies for pavement marking data collection, and pavement marking retroreflectivity. The survey has 31 questions dealing with pavement marking striping, pavement marking data collection, pavement marking retroreflectivity, and a few miscellaneous questions. There are 29 DOTs who responded to the survey. This paper summarizes the responses from the survey on evaluating pavement marking management practices at a national level.
Use of ileal bypass in the surgical management of two rare cases of ileal-neobladder fistula in patients who underwent radical cystectomy
Authors: Ikeda Yuji , Hamada Madoka , Matsumi Yuki , Sekimoto Mitsugu , Kurokawa Hiroaki , Saito Ryoichi , Sugi Motohiko , Kinoshita Hidefumi
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

An entero-neovesical fistula (ENF) is a rare troublesome complication of an orthotopic ileal bladder substitution. We report on a novel, safe technique to close ileal neovesical fistulas without extensive adhesiolysis using an NK-stapler (ENDOPATH® ENDOCUTTER ETS; Johnson & Johnson, Cincinnati, OH, USA).

Patients:

We treated two cases of postoperative ENF after orthotopic ileal bladder substitution for radical cystectomy. Case 1 was a 63-year-old male with occasional fecaluria, and Case 2 was a 73-year-old male who experienced continuous fecaluria. Surgical procedure After laparotomy, we mobilized the ascending colon to bypass the anastomosis of the primary surgery by an ileo-ileal, ileo-ascending colon anastomosis. The distance between the fistula and bypass was about 10 cm. We made tunnels in the mesentery between the bypass and fistula, without damaging blood vessels, to insert the jaw of the NK-stapler. We closed the afferent and efferent loops using NK-staplers (45 mm ×2), followed by a Lembert anastomosis covering the stapler’s suture lines.

Results:

They were discharged on the ninth and seventh postoperative days, respectively. In Case 1, we experienced recanalization of the fistula after three postoperative months and required second closure with the same procedure was needed. They have not experienced any symptoms of ENF since.

Conclusions:

This technique is worth considering for the surgical treatment of ENF because it does not require unnecessary dissection and can ultimately achieve fistula closure.
To Wean or Not to Wean: A Practical Patient Focused Guide to Ventilator Weaning
Authors: Akella Padmastuti , Voigt Louis P. , Chawla Sanjay
Published: July 2022

Since the inception of critical care medicine and artificial ventilation, literature and research on weaning has transformed daily patient care in intensive care units (ICU). As our knowledge of mechanical ventilation (MV) improved, so did the need to study patient-ventilator interactions and weaning predictors. Randomized trials have evaluated the use of protocol-based weaning (vs. usual care) to study the duration of MV in ICUs, different techniques to conduct spontaneous breathing trials (SBT), and strategies to eventually extubate a patient whose initial SBT failed. Despite considerable milestones in the management of multiple diseases contributing to reversible respiratory failure, in the application of early rehabilitative interventions to preserve muscle integrity, and in ventilator technology that mitigates against ventilator injury and dyssynchrony, major barriers to successful liberation from MV persist. This review provides a broad encompassing view of weaning classification, causes of weaning failure, and evidence behind weaning predictors and weaning modes.
Serum Ferritin as a Predictor of Outcomes in Hospitalized Patients with Covid-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Shakaroun Dania A. , Lazar Michael H. , Horowitz Jeffrey C. , Jennings Jeffrey H.
Published: July 2022

Purpose: Elevated ferritin levels are associated with poor outcomes in Covid-19 patients. Optimal timing of ferritin assessment and the merit of longitudinal values remains unclear. Methods: Patients admitted to Henry Ford Hospital with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 were studied. Regression models were used to determine the relation between ferritin and mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, ICU admission, and days on the ventilator. Results: 2265 patients were evaluated. Patients with an initial ferritin of > 490 ng/mL had an increased risk of death (OR 3.4, P < .001), admission to the ICU (OR 2.78, P < .001) and need for mechanical ventilation (OR 3.9, P < .001). There was no difference between admission and Day 1 ICU ferritin levels (611.5 ng/mL vs. 649 ng/mL respectively; P = .07). The decline in ferritin over ICU days 1-4 was similar between survivors and non-survivors. A change in ferritin levels from admission to ICU Day 1 ( P = .330), or from ICU Day 1 to 2 ( P = .788), did not predict days on the ventilator. Conclusions: Initial Ferritin levels were highly predictive of ICU admission, the need for mechanical ventilation and in-hospital mortality. However, longitudinal measures of ferritin throughout the hospital stay did not provide additional predictive value.
Cultural Expertise versus Strategic Ignorance: Confronting Cultural Diversity In and Out of Court in Poland
Authors: Burdziej Stanisław
Published: July 2022

Based on a systematic analysis of three databases of court decisions and a comprehensive overview of out-of-court use of cultural expertise in dispute resolution across various institutional contexts, this article investigates how Polish authorities tackle emerging issues of cultural diversity. Although Poland remains one of the European Union’s (EU) most ethnically and culturally homogeneous countries, increased immigration and internal pluralism bring new challenges for the courts and other public institutions involved in dispute resolution. Increasingly, generic references and commonsense understandings are replaced by more precise indications of sources, uses of academic sources or reports by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and appointment of relevant experts. On the other hand, judges still tend to attempt their own interpretations and usually reject motions to instruct social scientists as expert witnesses, choosing the approach once aptly described as “strategic ignorance.”2 Thus, in this article, I look at how Polish courts justify instruction (or rejection of motions to instruct) social scientists as expert witnesses and where they draw the line between common sense and expert interpretations of culture. I also survey the rising demand for cultural expertise in dispute settlement in immigration services, detention centers, the military, and education.
Applying User-Centered Design in the Development of a Supportive mHealth App for Women in Substance Use Recovery
Authors: Eaves Emery R. , Doerry Eck , Lanzetta Shana A. , Kruithoff Kathryn M. , Negron Kayla , Dykman Kaitlyn , Thoney Olivia , Harper Calvin C.
Published: July 2022

Purpose and Approach

Women in recovery describe stigma, negative treatment, and limited support as barriers to achieving their health and parenting goals. Mobile health technologies carefully tailored to support the unique needs of recovery communities can provide less burdensome alternatives to in-person services for women transitioning out of substance use treatment. An iterative design process integrated women’s interests into the structure, content, and interaction flow of a mobile health (mHealth) app.

Setting and Participants

Participants included women in recovery from opioid, alcohol, and polysubstance use disorders in a comprehensive housing program in urban Arizona.

Methods

Five focus groups with 3–7 participants each (n = 27 total) informed creation of the mHealth app. Informed by theoretical models of usability and person-centered design, development involved an iterative series of focus groups in which we asked women to comment on interest in using each feature. This provided a qualitative priority framework for feature development. We then modified the app and repeated the process to gauge consensus and continually refine our prototype.

Results

Women were interested in access to resources, such as housing, counseling, and parenting advice in settings known to treat women in recovery with respect. They also asked for positive messages, chatting with peers, and access to expert answers. They were less interested in points-based learning modules and “scored” activities, leading us to develop a “daily challenges” concept that builds good habits, but does not feel like “classwork”. Women’s recommendations shaped an mHealth app tailored to maximize utility, access, and safety for this at-risk population.

Conclusion

Integration of user-centered design with applied ethnographic techniques guided the development of a custom-tailored mHealth app responsive to lived experiences and needs of women in recovery. Future research should evaluate the potential for user-centered apps to increase self-efficacy, perceived social support, and to reduce risk of relapse.
Predicting Web Survey Breakoffs Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Chen Zeming , Cernat Alexandru , Shlomo Natalie
Published: July 2022

Web surveys are becoming increasingly popular but tend to have more breakoffs compared to the interviewer-administered surveys. Survey breakoffs occur when respondents quit the survey partway through. The Cox survival model is commonly used to understand patterns of breakoffs. Nevertheless, there is a trend to using more data-driven models when the purpose is prediction, such as classification machine learning models. It is unclear in the breakoff literature what are the best statistical models for predicting question-level breakoffs. Additionally, there is no consensus about the treatment of time-varying question-level predictors, such as question response time and question word count. While some researchers use the current values, others aggregate the value from the beginning of the survey. This study develops and compares both survival models and classification models along with different treatments of time-varying variables. Based on the level of agreement between the predicted and actual breakoff, we find that the Cox model and gradient boosting outperform other survival models and classification models respectively. We also find that using the values of time-varying predictors concurrent to the breakoff status is more predictive of breakoff, compared to aggregating their values from the beginning of the survey, implying that respondents’ breakoff behaviour is more driven by the current response burden.
Temporal-spatial reliability analysis of RC bridges with corroded steel reinforcement bars
Authors: Li Junxiang , Chen Jianqiao , Wei Junhong , Yang Xinhua
Published: July 2022

Corrosion of steel bars is one of the most significant causes of deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The performance of RC structures is affected by many factors such as materials, environments, and load conditions, which usually possess uncertain features. Some of uncertainties may be time- and space-dependent, and the corresponding reliability problems become more challenging. To address these issues, this paper studies the temporal-spatial reliability analysis of RC bridges with corroded steel reinforcement bars. At first, a compound corrosion model is developed in which the combined effects of carbonation (general corrosion) and chloride penetration (pitting corrosion) are considered. In the reliability analysis, both the temporal and spatial variability are accounted through a stochastic process and a random field, respectively. An extended instantaneous response surface (t-IRS) method is then proposed to evaluate the temporal-spatial reliability. Unlike the original t-IRS method, in addition to the original variables, the random variables transformed from the random fields and the space variable are also used as the input variables of the extended surrogate model. When generating sample points, both the time variable and the space variable are treated as uniformly distributed random variables within given intervals. Finally, the proposed method is applied to a RC bridge example with corroded steel reinforcement bars and the results are compared with that of Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method, demonstrating the effectiveness of the extended t-IRS method.
Structure, processing, property correlation of metastable β titanium Ti-5Al-5Mo-5V-3Cr alloy
Authors: Manda Premkumar , Quamar Jawed , Vanitha Chila , Singh Ashok Kumar
Published: July 2022

This work reports the evolution of “Structure, Processing, Property Correlation of Metastable β Titanium Ti-5Al-5Mo-5V-3Cr alloy” as a function of different aging temperatures (625,725 and 775 °C) for 4 h subsequent to solution heat treatment. The hot-rolled sheet was heat treated in β phase field and then water quenched. The solution heat treated in β phase field and then water quenched samples were aged at 625, 725 and 775 °C for 4 h. The hot-rolled sample shows the presence of α and β phases. The β-solution heat treated in β phase field and then water quenched sample of the alloy exhibits single β phase. The intensities of X-ray peaks are varying and β (211) peak shows the maximum intensity. The maximum intensity can be ascribed to β (211) texture. The solution heat treated in β phase field and then water quenched sample aged at 625 °C for 4 h shows the very fine hexagonal α phase precipitates as compared to the samples aged at 725 and 775 °C for 4 h. The samples aged at 725 and 775 °C for 4 h has resulted in precipitate-free zones as a result of the rejection of Mo, V, and Cr (β stabilizing elements) during nucleation and growth of α precipitates along the β grain boundaries. The Vickers hardness values of the alloy increase from solution heat treated in β phase field and then water quenched to all aging temperatures. The sample aged at 625 °C for 4 h shows the maximum hardness which is due to the presence of fine α phase precipitates. This can be ascribed to typical precipitation hardening.
Investigation of wear and friction characteristic of Al/(Si3N4)np nano composites under as-cast and heat-treated conditions
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Rana Ravindra Singh , Purohit Rajesh
Published: July 2022

Several automotive components, such as clutch plate, piston and cylinder liner, etc., require excellent wear characteristics. The current study focused on fabricating nano Si3N4 reinforced Al alloy composites through a stir casting route with ultrasonic assistance, then performing T-6 heat treatment to alter their properties. Dry sliding wear tests were performed to investigate the frictional and wear characteristics at various applied loads and sliding distances. Results reveal that the coarse grain of α-Al was significantly refined after incorporating nano Si3N4 particles in it, and their structure was transformed from coarse columnar to rosette-like dendrites. The hardness and wear resistance increase with nano Si3N4 addition and T-6 heat treatment. The formation of SiO2 and Fe2O3 layers at the interacting interface significantly reduces the coefficient of friction of nanocomposites. The volumetric loss increased with load (15 N to 45 N) and sliding distance (500 m to 3000 m) for cast and heat-treated samples. The maximum volumetric loss was found in the case of as-cast alloy and the minimum for heat-treated Al/2wt.% Si3N4 nanocomposites. The SEM investigation of worn surfaces shows that the adhesive mechanism is more dominant in alloys, whereas the abrasive wear mechanism was associated with nanocomposites.
Women, Business and the Law: Does Culture Matter?
Authors: Malaquias Fernanda Francielle de Oliveira , Matumoto Polyana Alvarenga , Valadão Valdir Machado
Published: July 2022

This article aims to investigate the effect of countries’ culture on women’s right to economic participation. As a secondary objective, the article aims to analyse the effect of culture on the progress made in the laws of the countries over the last five decades. The dataset comprises the national culture dimensions of Hofstede and the scores related to gender inequalities in the law provided in the Women, Business and the Law (WBL) database from The World Bank. Using multivariate regression analysis, we evaluated the effect of the cultural dimensions on the current WBL scores and on the variation of the WBL scores over the last five decades. The results show that the dimensions of culture (individualism, uncertainty avoidance and power distance) affect women’s right to economic participation and/or the evolution of laws in this direction. The results also suggest that although some countries still have much to advance in their legislation, more and more countries are reaching the goal of having an egalitarian society.
The Effect of Intravenous Ketamine After Spinal Anesthesia on the Duration of Postoperative Analgesia and Analgesic Requirement
Authors: Bagle Aparna , Pujari Spoorti , Shah Krusha , Solanki Shreyank , Singh Chandrakala
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of ketamine following spinal anesthesia on the duration of postoperative analgesia and the need for analgesics.

Methods:

This was a prospective, randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled study done over a period of two years. A total of 60 participants undergoing elective surgeries under spinal anesthesia were randomized into two groups. After 10 min of spinal anesthesia and achieving the required level of sensory and motor blockade, both groups were given Inj. Midazolam 1 mg intravenously, followed by Inj. Ketamine 0.25 mg/kg, volume made up to 10 mL with normal saline, given intravenously for Group K and Inj. Normal Saline 10 mL was given intravenously for Group N. Hemodynamic monitoring was done intraoperatively, and the postoperative visual analog score (VAS), sedation score, the mean time for the first rescue analgesia, and the total dose of postoperative analgesic required in 24 h were tabulated.

Results:

There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of age, weight, ASA grade, and duration of surgery. In Group K, the VAS scores were significantly lower and patients were comfortable when compared to Group N ( P value <.01). The mean time to first rescue analgesia was longer in Group K (6.4 ± 1.69 h) when compared to Group N (2.9 ± 1.01 h), and the total dose of postoperative analgesia (Tramadol) required in 24 h was also significantly less in Group K (143.33 ± 56.83 mg) when compared to Group N (236 ± 49.01 mg). Changes in hemodynamic parameters (heart rate and mean arterial pressure (MAP)) were statistically and clinically not significant in both the intraoperative and postoperative periods between the groups.

Conclusion:

Patients in Group K were more comfortable, had a longer duration of postoperative analgesia, and required less dose of rescue analgesia in the postoperative period. Ketamine is a safe drug that is readily available, and it decreases the use of opioids and opioid-related side effects. Therefore, ketamine can serve effectively as an adjunctive analgesic drug.
Transient swelling of cylindrical hydrogels under coupled extension-torsion: Analytical and 3D FEM solutions
Authors: Amiri Arya , Baniassadi Majid , Bayat Mohammad Reza , Baghani Mostafa
Published: July 2022

To design more accurate soft sensors and actuators, there is a significant requirement for the application of complicated deformation conditions. Coupled extension-torsion is a type of deformation which may be utilized in the property characterization of materials with complex behavior such as soft hydrogels. Hydrogels with coupled diffusion and large deformation behavior have intricate kinetics which should be studied in detail. In this work, a robust semi-analytical procedure is proposed to capture the transient behavior of cylindrical hydrogels in combined loading of extension and torsion in different conditions. Moreover, the whole problem with the same conditions is simulated in COMSOL-Multiphysics as a verification framework of the proposed semi-analytical procedure, where comparing the results shows a good agreement. The results demonstrate that the transient behavior of the cylindrical hydrogel under coupled extension-torsion is significantly dependent on the rate of the deformation and material properties. Besides, since the hydrogel undergoes a highly nonlinear swelling in this deformation regime, the simulations predict a complicated reaction force and moment. Visualizing the effect of different parameters engaged in the material shows the robust behavior of the proposed semi-analytical procedure, which can be employed in constitutive models’ calibration as well as in the design and optimization of hydrogels structures.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analyses of Longitudinal Studies on Drug Treatments for Gaucher Disease
Authors: Leonart Letícia Paula , Fachi Mariana M. , Böger Beatriz , Silva Mariana Ribeiro da , Szpak Renata , Lombardi Natália Fracaro , Pedroso Maria Lucia Alves , Pontarolo Roberto
Published: July 2022

Objective:

Gaucher disease (GD) is a rare disorder linked to the absence/deficiency of glucocerebrosidase. GD can be treated by enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and substrate reduction therapy (SRT). The aim of this systematic review (SR) is to assess the effectiveness of drugs used for GD treatment.

Data Sources:

Searches were conducted in PubMed and Scopus, in April 2021. The search strategies encompassed the name of the disease and of the drug treatments. Manual search was also conducted.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Observational and interventional longitudinal studies evaluating ERT and SRT for GD were included. Single mean meta-analyses were conducted for each drug using R.

Data Synthesis:

The initial search retrieved 2246 articles after duplicates were removed. Following screening and eligibility assessment, 68 reports were included. The studies evaluated imiglucerase, velaglucerase alfa, taliglucerase alfa, miglustat, and eliglustat. The results showed that ERT is effective as a treatment in both naïve and experienced patients. Miglustat did not significantly improve blood outcomes in naïve patients and resulted in a decrease in the platelet levels of experienced patients. Eliglustat was mainly assessed for experienced patients and resulted in stable outcome values.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

This extensive SR confirms the effectiveness of GD treatments in short- and long-term follow-ups.

Conclusions:

The results were favorable for all ERTs and for eliglustat. Based on the assessed evidence, miglustat did not achieved expressive results. However, all evidence should be interpreted considering its limitations and does not replace well-conducted randomized trials.
Retroperitoneal Cystic Adenopecoma with Genetic Analysis: A Rare Neoplasm
Authors: Ortiz Requena Domenika , Goiburu Maria Belen , Velez-Torres Jaylou , Ronquillo Nemencio , Livingstone Alan S. , Rosenberg Andrew E.
Published: July 2022

Lymphangiomyomatosis is a member of the PEComa family, and usually involves the pulmonary parenchyma of middle-aged females. Infrequently, it may involve abdominal and retroperitoneal lymph nodes, and rarely it has been described to be associated with fallopian tube-type ciliated epithelium co-existing in one neoplasm. To increase our understanding of this unusual tumor, we describe the morphology and genetics of one case and review the literature. We present the case of a 50-year-old female found to have 12.5 and 7.7 cm cystic retroperitoneal masses, describe its unique pathological features and review the literature on the previously reported cases. Based on its unique morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular features we propose the term adenoPEComa to represent this entity. This case represents a rare example of adenoPEComa with lymphangiomyomatosis of the lymph nodes. It is the first example that has undergone next-generation sequencing revealing a mutation in TSC2 making it a confirmed member of the PEComa family of tumors.
Reliability and Validity of the Self-Rating Scale as a Measure of Self-Criticism
Authors: Glenn Lara E. , Pepper Carolyn M.
Published: July 2022

The Self-Rating Scale (SRS; Hooley et al., 2010), a widely used measure of self-criticism in self-injury research, did not utilize conventional test development methods and has limited psychometric data. We examined the internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and convergent and discriminant validity of the SRS. Participants were 295 psychology undergraduate students. The SRS demonstrated good internal consistency (α = .93), adequate test–retest reliability ( r = .76), and satisfactory convergent validity with other measures of self-criticism. Convergent validity was also adequate for expected dimensions of perfectionism (socially prescribed, self-oriented, concerns about mistakes, and doubts about actions), depressive symptoms, and negative and positive affect. The SRS demonstrated adequate discriminant validity with expected constructs of perfectionism (other-oriented, personal standards, and organizational perfectionism). Although the SRS appears to be a psychometrically sound measure of self-criticism, high correlations with depression and perfectionism raise questions regarding the overlap of these constructs.
Assessing the Impact of Interorganizational Linkages on Medical Home Model Adoption by U.S. Acute Care Hospitals
Authors: Hearld Larry R. , Tafili Aurora
Published: July 2022

The medical home model aims to increase care coordination and health care quality. While the adoption of the model has been increasing, the role of U.S. acute care hospitals’ interorganizational linkages on adoption is yet to be explored. Using a national sample of hospitals throughout the United States, we examined what interorganizational linkage features are associated with medical home adoption of hospital-owned physician practices and assess the pattern of adoption by acute care hospitals between 2011 and 2019. A generalized estimating equation with binomial distribution was utilized to assess the association between interorganizational linkages and medical home adoption. Hospitals with structural linkages and institutional linkages were more likely to have adopted the medical home. Moreover, the likelihood of medical home adoption increased relative to an increasing number of interorganizational linkages. Medical home adoption and dissemination efforts may be more effective when focused on hospitals possessing interorganizational linkages, specifically those with structural linkages.
A Multinational Study of Patient Preferences for How Decisions Are Made in Their Care
Authors: Pines Rachyl , Sheeran Nicola , Jones Liz , Pearson Annika , Pamoso Aron H. , Jin Yin (Blair) , Benedetti Maria
Published: July 2022

Inadequate consideration has been given to patient preferences for patient-centered care (PCC) across countries or cultures in our increasingly global society. We examined what 1,698 participants from the United States, Hong Kong, Philippines, and Australia described as important when making health care decisions. Analysis of frequencies following directed content coding of open-ended questions revealed differences in patients’ preferences for doctor behaviors and decision-making considerations across countries. Being well informed by their doctor emerged as most important in decision-making, especially in Hong Kong. Participants in Australia and the United States wanted their doctor to meet their emotional needs. The safety and efficacy of treatments were the most common consideration, especially for Hong Kong. Findings suggest that doctors should focus on information exchange and identifying patient concerns about efficacy, lifestyle impact, cost, and recovery speed. Rather than assuming patients prefer shared decision-making, doctors must assess patient’s decision control preferences.
Stories of Backlash in Interviews With Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence Against Women in Sweden
Authors: Wemrell Maria
Published: July 2022

Despite high gender equality ratings, Sweden shows a high prevalence of intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW). Suggested factors underlying this apparent paradox include backlash effects against women's empowerment. This study explores stories of backlash in interviews with 23 IPVAW survivors in Sweden. Thematic analysis identified categories of narrative segments referring to phenomena provoking violence; the victims’ resources, agency, breaking with gender norms and resistance, and the partner's feelings of subordination, while case-centered narrative analysis pointed to divergences between how these categories appear in the stories. The study underscores the complexity of links between gender (in)equality and IPVAW in Sweden.
Women Supporting Women: The Use of Art With Anxious/Depressed, Urban, Impoverished, Ethnically Diverse Women
Authors: Molewyk Doornbos Mary , Zandee Gail Landheer , Greidanus Anna , Timmermans Barbara , Miller Katherine , Quist Morgan , Heitsch Emily , Hammond Erica , Houskamp Christa , VanWolde Anna
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND: Depression and anxiety disproportionately affect urban, ethnically diverse, impoverished women—particularly when access to culturally sensitive care is limited. Using community-based participatory research in the context of long-term, academic/community partnerships, women supporting women, a supportive/educative group intervention piloting an art project, was offered. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of an artist book-making project on diverse women struggling with anxiety and depression. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative approach was used within this mixed-method study. Thirty-one participants, aged 18 to 86 years, were asked: (1) How does this book tell your story? (2) How did creating this book impact you personally? (3) How would you describe the experience of creating your book alongside women from our group? (4) How did this project help you with anxiety and depression? (5) What did you do with the book that you made? The framework method for analysis of qualitative data in multidisciplinary health research was used. RESULTS: Four themes, with corresponding subthemes, were identified: (1) personal story entailed expression of past, present, and future journey and mediums to depict the story; (2) method of coping included relaxation, diversion, and self-care; (3) creative impact encompassed affirmation of identity, empowerment, healing, pride in work, and a vehicle to connect; and (4) creating in community incorporated inspiration, sharing, and solidarity. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that an art project provides a culturally sensitive, clinically relevant, and cost-effective self-care intervention for vulnerable women struggling with anxiety and depression.
How Does Mindfulness Affect Registered Nurses Practicing in Acute Care Settings? A Study of the Lived Experiences of Nurses After Participating in a Mindfulness Program
Authors: Rosen Jacquelyn , Penque Susan
Published: July 2022

Background:

Psychological well-being of nurses is necessary to protect the overall care of themselves, as well as their patients. This is especially concerning given the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are several research studies on mindfulness for RNs and its impact on psychological health and well-being. There is limited research on how nurses may use mindfulness during patient care.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of mindfulness education and practice on helping RNs to develop self-care skills and to apply mindfulness in the clinical setting.

Method:

This was an exploratory mixed method design including quantitative (pilot study) and qualitative methods. Upon completion of a 4-week course on mindfulness practices, focus groups were held with the seven participants who completed the program. Open-ended, semi-structured interviews were held 1 week and then 3 months post-intervention. A constant comparative method and thematic analysis were utilized to analyze the data.

Results:

Four themes were identified; (1) using mindfulness to calm down one’s emotional response in the clinical setting; (2) awareness; (3) loving yourself; and (4) self-care. Nurses reported increased awareness and were able to use the technique of mindfulness practice during patient care.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study validate the benefits of mindfulness for self-care. Nurses were able to utilize mindfulness while caring for patients in different settings and during difficult patient situations, including in Behavioral Health. Further research is needed longitudinally, to explore how mindfulness can be practiced and utilized to improve outcomes in patient care.
Tourists’ Adoption of Extended Reality Technologies: A MetaAnalytical Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Guo Qiang , Zhu Dan , Li Fangxuan (Sam) , Wang Xiaoyan , Shu Yan
Published: July 2022

This study uses meta-analytic structural equation modeling to investigate the applicability of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in predicting tourists’ adoption of extended reality technologies. It further examines whether the type of extended reality [Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality] and cultural differences (Eastern vs. Western) moderate the relationships amongst the TAM constructs. Using 32 individual samples ( N = 10,630), the study revealed the differences in the effect sizes and variabilities of the links among the constructs given the type of extended reality and cultural differences. The implications of the findings are provided for tourism researchers and managers.
Cytomegalovirus immunoglobulin therapy for CMV retinitis post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Chiu Tzu-Yu , Huang Min-Yu , Wu Horng-Jiun
Published: July 2022

Purpose

To report a case of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis complicated with ganciclovir-related myelosuppression, which was successfully managed with intravenous (IV) ganciclovir and CMV immunoglobulin (CMVIG) therapy.

Methods

Observational case report.

Results

A 51-year-old male with follicular type non-Hodgkin lymphoma post hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) developed vision-threatening retinitis. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the aqueous humour showed positive for CMV. Despite myelosuppression occurred during IV ganciclovir therapy, the retinitis resolved and intraocular CMV viral load significantly improved after CMVIG therapy.

Conclusion

Combined IV ganciclovir treatment and CMVIG therapy can significantly improve visual outcome and reduce intraocular CMV viral load in vision-threatening CMV retinitis.
Pesticide Residues in Fresh Fruit and Vegetables from Farm to Fork in the Kampala Metropolitan Area, Uganda
Authors: Ssemugabo Charles , Bradman Asa , Ssempebwa John C. , Sillé Fenna , Guwatudde David
Published: July 2022

This study assessed concentrations of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables from farm-to-fork in Kampala Metropolitan Area, Uganda. A total of 160 samples of fruit and vegetables collected from farms, markets, streets, restaurants and homes were analysed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry; and Gas Chromatograph–Mass Spectrometer for dithiocarbamates. Multiple pesticide residues were detected in majority of the samples (95.6%). The proportions of the most frequently detected pesticides residue classes were organophosphates (91.3%), carbamates (67.5%), pyrethroids (60.0%) dithiocarbamates (48.1%) and neonicotinoids (42.5%). Among organophosphates, propotamophos, acephate, fonofos, monocrotophos and dichlorvos were the most detected active ingredients; aminocarb, methomyl and pirimicarb were the commonly detected carbamates; while imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid and lambda-cyhalothrin, pyrethroid were also highly detected. Twenty-seven pesticide were tested at all stages, of which the concentrations either decreased or increased along the chain. Multiple pesticide residues occurred in commonly consumed fruit and vegetables with decreasing or increasing concentrations from farm-to-fork.
Learning Deficits Induced by High-Calorie Feeding in the Rat are Associated With Impaired Brain Kynurenine Pathway Metabolism
Authors: Mezo-González Carla Elena , Daher Abdi Amran , Reyes-Castro Luis Antonio , Olvera Hernández Sandra , Almeida Clarissa , Croyal Mikaël , Aguesse Audrey , Gavioli Elaine Cristina , Zambrano Elena , Bolaños-Jiménez Francisco
Published: July 2022

In addition to be a primary risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, obesity is associated with learning disabilities. Here we examined whether a dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan (Trp) metabolism might underlie the learning deficits exhibited by obese individuals. The KP is initiated by the enzymatic conversion of Trp into kynurenine (KYN) by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). KYN is further converted to several signaling molecules including quinolinic acid (QA) which has a negative impact on learning. Wistar rats were fed either standard chow or made obese by exposure to a free choice high-fat high-sugar (fcHFHS) diet. Their learning capacities were evaluated using a combination of the novel object recognition and the novel object location tasks, and the concentrations of Trp and KYN-derived metabolites in several brain regions determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Male, but not female, obese rats exhibited reduced learning capacity characterized by impaired encoding along with increased hippocampal concentrations of QA, Xanthurenic acid (XA), Nicotinamide (Nam), and oxidized Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+). In contrast, no differences were detected in the serum levels of Trp or KP metabolites. Moreover, obesity enhanced the expression in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO), an enzyme involved in the production of QA from kynurenine. QA stimulates the glutamatergic system and its increased production leads to cognitive impairment. These results suggest that the deleterious effects of obesity on cognition are sex dependent and that altered KP metabolism might contribute to obesity-associated learning disabilities.
Sociocultural positivism: Critical evaluation in three research vignettes
Authors: Matusov Eugene
Published: July 2022

The paper develops a critical evaluation of sociocultural positivism by contrasting it with universal positivism, on the one hand, and with unique authorial dialogism, stemming from Bakhtin’s dialogical framework, on the other hand. I will bring three research vignettes to make my analysis more grounded: on universal positivism, on sociocultural positivism, and on authorial ethical dialogism. Sociocultural positivism is not rebuked or rejected, but rather it must be limited in search for the boundary of its legitimate use and existence. A complementary framework based on Bakhtin’s philosophical framework of dialogism that would deepen sociocultural positivism is proposed.
Extending the memorable tourism experience construct: An investigation of tourists’ memorable dark experiences
Authors: Hosseini Seyedasaad , Cortes-Macías Rafael , Almeida-García Fernando
Published: July 2022

Dark tourism is an important part of tourism at some destinations; however, little is known about the factors that influence the overall dark tourism experience. This research aims to contribute to this existing knowledge gap by improving our understanding of the nature of the dark tourism experience and its formation process. Through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 15 tourists in the war zones of Iran, participants were asked to talk about their memorable experiences and why the experience was special to them. Using a grounded theory approach, a theoretical model of memorable dark tourism experiences (MDTEs) was developed and four key factors influencing dark tourism experiences at a destination were identified: learning from dark experiences, spiritual experiences, involvement in activities and emotional experiences. The findings of this study contribute to ongoing efforts in tourism studies to understand the nature of memorable tourism experiences in general and in the context of dark tourism experiences in particular. The theoretical and practical importance of the research results is discussed and various approaches are proposed for future research.
Cognitive decline in mid-life: Changes in memory and cognition related to hypothyroidism
Authors: Stern Mark , Finch Alyse , Haskard-Zolnierek Kelly B. , Howard Krista , Deason Rebecca G.
Published: July 2022

This study assessed specific cognitive impairments within a primarily female, hypothyroid population, while controlling for factors that commonly contribute to cognitive decline. Participants ( N = 739) included 461 individuals with hypothyroidism. This study involved an online survey assessing several aspects of memory and cognition. Those with hypothyroidism generally scored worse on self-assessments of memory, higher perceived stress, high rates of depression and anxiety, greater fatigue, poorer concentration, and less motivation. A Receiver Operating Characteristic curve indicated that the cognitive questionnaires are successful at classifying hypothyroidism and a mediation analysis showed fatigue is a mediating symptom of these cognitive outcomes.
Bilinguals are less susceptible to the bias blind spot in their second language
Authors: Niszczota Paweł , Pawlak Magdalena , Białek Michał
Published: July 2022

Aims and objectives/purpose/research questions:

Extant research suggests that processing information in a second language (L2) affects decision-making, possibly by affecting metacognition. We hypothesized that processing in L2 will reduce the bias blind spot effect, whereby people (on average) erroneously think that they are less susceptible to biases than others.

Design/methodology/approach:

In Experiment 1, participants assessed their susceptibility and the susceptibility of others to 13 psychological and 7 economic biases, in either L1 (Polish) or L2 (English). In Experiment 2, participants assessed the 7 most severe bias blind spots from Experiment 1.

Data and analysis:

We recruited 500 participants for each experiment via Prolific (832 overall, after exclusions). The main hypothesis and moderators were tested via mixed-model regressions.

Findings/conclusions:

In Experiment 1, participants showed an overall bias blind spot, which decreased in the L2 condition, but only for psychological biases. In Experiment 2, we replicated the L2-bias blind spot attenuation effect. An exploratory analysis suggests that the effect of L2 is the result of both lower ratings of other-susceptibility and higher ratings of self-susceptibility.

Originality:

Our study provides unique insights into how L2 affects metacognition. We are the first to study how the use of L2 can attenuate the bias blind spot. Our findings provide rare support for the psychological distancing (“birds-eye view”) explanation for the foreign language effect.

Significance/implications:

Bilinguals using L2 showed some resilience to the bias blind spot, suggesting metacognition is language dependent.
Investigation of the punching shear behaviors of reinforced concrete slab–steel reinforced concrete L-shaped column connections
Authors: Xue Jianyang , Zhang Wei , Xu Jinjun , Yuan Zhen , Zhao Fei , Zhang Chong
Published: July 2022

To study the punching behaviors of reinforced concrete (RC) slab–steel reinforced concrete (SRC) L-shaped column connections, four slab–column connection tests were designed and completed, and a new punching shear resistance measure proposed. The test variables were column section shape, slab thickness and column cap. The test results show that the failure mode of L-shaped column was mainly two-way shear. Meanwhile, increasing slab thickness and installing column cap can effectively improve the ultimate bearing capacity of the slab–column connection. The punching angles formed by the punching cone and horizontal direction at the final failure of the connection were between 23.5° and 49.5°. In addition, a numerical simulation analysis was carried out using ABAQUS software, and the effects of various parameters on the performance of slab–column connections were studied. It was found that the change of column section shape will lead to more complex shear stress distribution and stress concentration phenomenon. However, the punching capacity of the special-shaped column was higher than that of the equivalent square column with the same section area. As a new punching shear resistance measure, inverted T-shaped steel can effectively improve the ultimate bearing capacity of the connections. In addition, when the ratio of slab thickness to web width of inverted T-shaped steel was less than 0.75, the failure mode of the connection changed from brittle punching failure to flexural failure.
Screening and Monitoring in Informal Credit Markets: Evidence from Rural Punjab
Authors: Singh Indervir
Published: July 2022

The present article examines the screening and monitoring strategies used by lenders to solve the problem of imperfect information in the rural informal credit market. The study uses data from a primary survey conducted in Punjab, India. The survey focuses on informal lending between commission agents and farmers. Data were collected from 120 randomly selected commission agents from four blocks. Each of the blocks represents a different development level. The results show that commission agents invested significant time and resources for screening and monitoring the farmers. The screening and monitoring were found to be more stringent in areas that were underdeveloped and had higher default risk. Commission agents could shift a significant share of the screening cost to the borrowers, thereby increasing their self-enforcement range. The study argues that high screening cost hurts small farmers. The regression results found a significant reduction in the default rate and the unrecovered loan due to screening strategies.

JEL Classification: D81, E26, Q14