bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The limits of the imaginary: Challenges to intervening in future speculations of memory, data, and algorithms
Authors: Markham Annette
Published: July 2020

Over 3 years, researchers, artists, and activists collaborated on eight public engagement experiments in five countries. All focused on building critical consciousness about digital futures. The interventions worked: Once participants broke through the seamlessness of interface surfaces, they immediately thought more critically about how digital platforms actually operate. Yet even as participants reached into these black boxes, they did not imagine alternatives. This article offers a critical theory reading of the theme of inevitability, using the concept of discursive closure, whereby we can see how particular values and (infra)structures are naturalized, neutralized, and legitimated, closing off discussion of alternatives that might counter current hegemonic power. This article highlights the importance of considering iterative formats for speculative interventions, whereby facilitators can focus not only on imagining new or different digital futures, but find creative ways to identify and help overcome the current resignation to the inevitable.
The impact of intake pressure on high exhaust gas recirculation low-temperature compression ignition engine combustion using borescopic imaging
Authors: Sarangi AK , Garner CP , McTaggart-Cowan GP , Davy MH , Hargrave GK
Published: July 2020

In diesel engines, high levels of exhaust gas recirculation can be used to achieve low-temperature combustion, resulting in low emission levels of both nitrogen oxides (NO x) and particulate matter. This work studied the effects of varying the intake manifold pressure on in-cylinder combustion processes and engine-out emissions from a light-duty single cylinder diesel engine under conventional and high exhaust gas recirculation low-temperature combustion regimes. The work was conducted at a part-load cruise condition of 1500 r/min and at an indicated mean effective pressure of approximately 600 kPa. Exhaust gas recirculation rates were varied between 0% and 65% at absolute intake pressures of 100–150 kPa. Very low NO x emissions were achieved (<10 ppm, ∼0.05 g/kW h) for intake oxygen mass fractions below about 11%, independent of boost pressure. Smoke emission levels were lower than for non–exhaust gas recirculation combustion at oxygen mass fractions below ∼9%, depending on the boost pressure. High intake pressures reduced fuel consumption by 15% and combustion by-product emissions by 50%–60% compared to low boost. For the low intake boost case, little visible flame was apparent through borescope imaging. At higher boost pressures, intense flame luminosity was observed within the piston bowl early in the expansion stroke. Spatially averaged soot luminosity based on photomultiplier tube data showed that peak soot luminosity was five times greater and occurred 8 °CA earlier for high boost. This work demonstrates how the combination of appropriate boost pressures and exhaust gas recirculation rates can be used to mitigate the emissions and thermal efficiency penalties of high-dilution low-temperature combustion to achieve near-zero NO x operation.
From the discovery of field ionization to field desorption and liquid injection field desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry—A journey from principles and applications to a glimpse into the future
Authors: Gross Jürgen H
Published: July 2020

The discovery of the ionizing effect of strong electric fields in the order of volts per Ångstrom in the early 1950s eventually led to the development of field ionization-mass spectrometry (FI-MS). Due to the very low ion currents, and thus, limited by the instrumentation of the 1960s, it took some time for the, by then, new technique to become adopted for analytical applications. In FI-MS, volatile or at least vaporizable samples mainly deliver molecular ions, and consequently, mass spectra showing no or at least minor numbers of fragment ion signals. The next major breakthrough was achieved by overcoming the need to evaporate the analyte prior to ionization. This was accomplished in the early 1970s by simply depositing the samples onto the field emitter and led to field desorption-mass spectrometry (FD-MS). With FD-MS, a desorption ionization method had become available that paved the road to the mass spectral analysis of larger molecules of low to high polarity and even of organic salts. In FD-MS, all of these analytes deliver spectra with no or at least few fragment ion peaks. The last milestone was the development of liquid injection field desorption/ionization (LIFDI) in the early 2000s that allows for sample deposition under the exclusion of atmospheric oxygen and water. In addition to sampling under inert conditions, LIFDI also enables more robust and quicker operation than classical FI-MS and FD-MS procedures. The development and applications of FI, FD, and LIFDI had mutual interference with the mass analyzers that were used in combination with these methods. Vice versa, the demand for using these techniques on other than magnetic sector instruments has effectuated their adaptation to different types of modern mass analyzers. The journey started with magnetic sector instruments, almost skipped quadrupole analyzers, encompassed Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) and orthogonal acceleration time-of-flight (oaTOF) analyzers, and finally arrived at Orbitraps. Even interfaces for continuous-flow LIFDI have been realized. Even though being niche techniques to some degree, one may be confident that FI, FD, and LIFDI have a promising future ahead of them. This Account takes you on the journey from principles and applications of the title methods to a glimpse into the future.
On the concept of political manipulation
Authors: Whitfield Gregory
Published: July 2020

Much liberal-democratic thought has concerned itself primarily – even exclusively – with coercive interference in citizens’ lives. But political actors do things – they engage in influential speech, they offer incentives, they mislead other actors, they disrupt the expected functioning of decision-making mechanisms etc. – that fall short of coercion, yet may nonetheless call for normative evaluation and public justification, precisely because they serve to purposively alter citizens’ beliefs, intentions and behaviour. With this article, I explicate a conception of political manipulation to capture this sort of interference, and to distinguish individual manipulation from the manipulation of nonindividual agents like committees, institutions and states. The account, beyond being necessary for further work on the ethics of political manipulation, should prove useful to both normative thinkers interested in power, justice and the ethics of democratic decision-making, and empirical scholars in search of a conceptual apparatus to sharpen their investigations into the exercise of subtle forms of political power.
A fast technique using output only to localize and quantify multiple damages for multi-degree-of-freedom systems
Authors: Cheng Liangliang , Fang Wenshan , Zhu Yunpeng
Published: July 2020

Vibration-based methods for identifying and evaluating structural damages have been widely studied in the last decades. However, in the state-of-art methods, there are some practical limitations owing to the complicated calculation process and low damage sensitivities. A new method for localizing and quantifying the damages of a beam-like structure based on low-frequency components, including direct current component, of the output signal subject to an arbitrary input excitation, is proposed in this article. The relationship between the low-frequency components of any two adjacent measurement points is investigated, in order to help to understand the link between damages and low-frequency components of outputs. The theoretical derivation of this method begins with a multi-degree-of-freedom structure of the mass–spring–damper chain, and the damage is considered to be a linear combination of local stiffness losses, resulting in changes in structural dynamic behaviors. The validity and feasibility of the proposed damage indicators are proved by numerical and experimental studies. It is further shown that the severity of the damage can be properly identified using the proposed damage indicator. Moreover, a discussion concerning potential detection on multiple nonlinear damages is presented at the end of this article.
The Relation of Anxiety and Avoidance Dimensions of Attachment to Intimate Partner Violence: A Meta-Analysis About Perpetrators
Authors: Velotti Patrizia , Rogier Guyonne , Beomonte Zobel Sara , Chirumbolo Antonio , Zavattini Giulio Cesare
Published: July 2020

Objective:

The attachment theory is a useful framework for interpreting the phenomenon of intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration. Although several studies have examined the relationship between attachment and IPV perpetration, a meta-analysis of these results has yet to be conducted.

Method:

After a search on five databases (PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed) and a screening of 3,852 records recruited, 52 studies comprising 13,653 individuals met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis.

Results:

Results showed a significant effect size for both the anxiety and avoidance dimensions of attachment. However, while the effect sizes for anxiety were consistent ( r = .19–.35) for all types of violence considered, the effect size for avoidance was not significant for generic violence ( r = .07), low for physical ( r = .12) and psychological violence ( r = .14), and medium for sexual violence ( r = .20). Only a few of the examined moderators were significant.

Conclusions:

The findings highlight some differences in the roles of the two attachment dimensions in IPV. The results underscore the need for additional research to explore the role of other potential moderating and mediating variables in the relationship between attachment and IPV perpetration in order to better support the development of prevention and treatment interventions.
Delivery of Radiation at the Lowest Dose Rate by a Modern Linear Accelerator is Most Effective in Inhibiting Prostate Cancer Growth
Authors: Tazat Keren , Reshetnyak Oleg , Shtraus Natan , Sayag Ifat , Mabjeesh Nicola J. , Amir Sharon
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

External beam radiotherapy is one of the treatment options for organ-confined prostate cancer. A total dose of 70 to 81 Gray (Gy) is given daily (1.8-2.5 Gy/d), with a dose rate of 3 to 6 Gy/min over 28 to 45 treatments during 8 to 9 weeks. We applied the latest technological development in linear accelerators for enabling a wide range of dose rates (from 0.2-21 Gy/min) to test the effect of different delivery dose rates on prostate tumor growth in an animal xenograft model.

Materials and Methods:

A prostate cancer xenograft model was established in CD1/nude mice by means of PC-3 and CL-1 cells. The animals were radiated by a TrueBeam linear accelerator that delivered 4 dose rates ranging from 0.6 to 14 Gy/min, and reaching a total dose of 20 Gy. The mice were weighed and monitored for tumor development twice weekly. A 2-way analysis of variance was used to compare statistical differences between the groups.

Results:

Tumor growth was inhibited by radiation at all 4 dose rates in the 20 study mice compared to no radiation (n = 5, controls). The most significant reduction in tumor volumes was observed when the same dose of radiation was delivered at a rate of 0.6 Gy/min ( P < .01). The animals’ weights were not affected by any dose rate.

Conclusions:

Delivery of radiation with a TrueBeam linear accelerator at the lowest possible rate was most effective in prostate cancer growth inhibition and might be considered a preferential treatment mode for localized prostate cancer.
Expanding the Transformative Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Design Archetype in a Cross-Cultural Context: The Polemics of African Refugee Livelihoods in Places of Resettlement
Authors: Maleku Arati , Kim Youn Kyoung , Kagotho Njeri , Lim Younghee
Published: July 2020

Transformative sequential mixed methods design in a cross-cultural context is seldom straightforward. Using a community-based participatory research approach as the transformative lens in an African refugee context in the southern United Status, we explored: (a) the intersection of culture, financial stress, and financial self-efficacy and (b) tested the efficacy of financial literacy as the focus of a culturally responsive solution grounded in community-identified priorities. Through a three-phased explanatory sequential mixed methods design, we demonstrate how the addition of a third phase of analysis that focuses on convergence and expansion of quantitative and qualitative data integration and cyclical processes of dissemination and action can strengthen the utility of transformative mixed methods research in a cross-cultural context. Our study offers a unique contribution to the long-standing methodological dialogue between the design elements of mixed methods research, community-based participatory research, and migration studies by expanding the transformative explanatory sequential design archetype in a cross-cultural context.
Management and Outcomes of Clinical Scaphoid Fractures in Children
Authors: Karir Aneesh , Huynh Minh N. Q. , Carsen Sasha , Smit Kevin , Cheung Kevin
Published: July 2020

Background: Acute wrist trauma with clinical suspicion of a scaphoid fracture, but normal radiographs, is known as a clinical scaphoid fracture. Standard treatment involves immobilization and repeat radiographs in 10 to 14 days. When repeat radiographs are normal but a scaphoid fracture is still clinically suspected, the optimal management in children is unknown. This study retrospectively assessed the management and outcomes of pediatric patients diagnosed with clinical scaphoid fractures. Methods: A retrospective study was performed of all patients over a 2-year period treated for a clinical scaphoid fracture at a tertiary pediatric center. Patients were included if they had clinical signs of a scaphoid fracture and 2 negative x-rays 7 to 14 days apart postinjury. Results: Ninety-one patients with a mean age of 13.2 years (range: 7.8-17.7) were included. Sixteen patients (17.6%) underwent computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at a mean time of 10.2 weeks postinjury. Five patients (5.5%) were diagnosed with a scaphoid fracture by x-ray or CT at an average of 4.5 weeks postinjury (range: 3-6). Six patients were diagnosed with other wrist fractures at a mean time postinjury of 3.1 (range: 3-6.5) weeks. Out of 195 total radiographs, the surgeon and radiologist disagreed on 59 (30.2%) images. No patients underwent surgery. Conclusions: Management of clinical scaphoid fractures at our institution was relatively uniform: nearly all patients were immobilized and less than 20% received advanced imaging. Our findings suggest a low but non-zero occult scaphoid fracture rate, discordance in radiologic interpretation, and lack of advanced imaging, providing an avenue for future prospective studies.
Zone II Flexor Pollicis Longus Repair: Thumb Flexion and Complications
Authors: Bruin Luca L. , Lans Jonathan , Eberlin Kyle R. , Chen Neal C.
Published: July 2020

Background: The aim of flexor pollicis longus (FPL) repair is to create a construct that is strong enough to withstand forces encountered during rehabilitation and to achieve an optimal active range of motion. The aim of this study was to: (1) assess factors influencing active thumb interphalangeal (IP) joint flexion; and (2) assess the factors associated with reoperation. Methods: Retrospectively, 104 patients with primary repair of a Zone II FPL laceration from 2000 to 2016 were identified. A medical chart review was performed to collect patient-, injury-, and surgery characteristics as well as the degree of postoperative active IP-flexion and occurrence of reoperation. Bivariate analyses were performed to identify factors influencing active IP-flexion and factors associated with reoperation. Results: The reoperation rate was 17% (n = 18) at a median of 3.4 months (range: 2.3-4.4). Indications for reoperation mainly included adhesion formation (n = 10, 56%) and re-rupture (n = 5, 28%). The median range of active IP-flexion was 30° (interquartile range [IQR]: 20-45) at a median of 12.4 weeks (IQR: 8.1-16.7). Solitary injury to the thumb (β = 17.9, P = .022) and the use of epitendinous suture (β = 10.0, P = .031) were associated with increased active IP-joint flexion. No factors were statistically associated with reoperation. Conclusions: About 1 in 5 patients undergo reoperation following primary repair of a Zone II FPL laceration, mostly within 6 months of initial surgery. The use of epitendinous suture is associated with greater active IP-flexion. Patients with multiple digits injured accompanying a Zone II FPL laceration have inferior IP-joint motion.
Mesenteric vascular disease: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Madurska Marta J , Anderson Robert G , Anderson David J , McNeill Caitlin J , Jansen Jan O , Stuart Wesley P , Morrison Jonathan J
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Mesenteric vascular disease carries a high risk of mortality and morbidity; however, due to obscure clinical presentation, it can be under-recognized. Currently, epidemiology of mesenteric vascular disease remains poorly defined. The aim of this study is to analyze changes in Scottish mortality rates from mesenteric vascular disease overtime.

Methods

This is a retrospective, longitudinal population-based cohort study using data extracted from death certificates and Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation. All deaths related to a vascular disorder of the intestines recorded as an underlying cause of death between 1979 and 2014 were identified using International Classification of Disease-9 or International Classification of Disease-10 code groups. Data included demographics and location of death. The residence postcodes were used to classify socio-economic status using the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation.

Results

From 2,142,921 deaths over 36 years, 14,530 (0.7%) were due to mesenteric vascular disease with a median (interquartile range) age of 77 and a 2:1 female to male gender ratio. The mean ± standard deviation age significantly increased from 72.6 ± 12.1 in 1979 to 76.8 ± 11.1 in 2014 ( p < 0.001, R2 = 0.772). Males were consistently younger than females at the time of death. The two lowest Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation categories accounted for half of the cohort, throughout the study period ( p = 0.068). The adjusted death rate per 100,000 population increased from 7.6 in 1979 to 12.1 in 2014.

Conclusions

The reported death rates of mesenteric vascular disease in Scotland between 1979 and 2014 have nearly doubled. Mesenteric vascular disease affects twice as many women as men and is associated with social deprivation. The increased reporting of mesenteric vascular disease is likely due to increased recognition and incidence. These implications should be considered when planning healthcare provision in Scotland.
Compassion-focused therapy groups for people with intellectual disabilities: An extended pilot study
Authors: Goad Elisabeth Jane , Parker Kayleigh
Published: July 2020

People with intellectual disabilities who experience mental health difficulties often have high levels of self-criticism and shame. Compassion-focused therapy is a therapeutic modality effective in working with such feelings. This article follows on from a previous compassion-focused therapy group study exploring the impact of two compassion-focused therapy-based groups on how participants felt about themselves. Utilizing a mixed method design, the study illustrated that participants experienced higher levels of compassion and, overall, saw themselves more favourably by the end of the groups. They were also able to understand the basic concepts of compassion-focused therapy which reinforced previous study findings, suggesting that it is adaptable and clinically useful for people with intellectual disabilities.
Domestic Hospitality: As a Practice and an Alternative Economic Arrangement
Authors: Warde Alan , Paddock Jessica , Whillans Jennifer
Published: July 2020

This article examines the connections between the economic, social and cultural aspects of a rather peculiar practice – events of domestic hospitality which involve a meal. In formats ranging from the formal dinner party to impromptu potluck events, an economic good is transferred from one household to another, ostensibly as a unilateral gift although often prompting reciprocity. Illustrated with results from a mixed methods re-study of the practice of eating out in England, we explore how, and under which circumstances, reciprocity is, or is not, observed. We discuss how to conceptualise this activity in terms of production and consumption, modes of provision, gifts and reciprocity, practice and culture. Interpreting the meaning and function of domestic entertaining, and explaining why it is so highly regarded, is shown to depend on how repetition is aligned with other specific characteristics of the practice. We draw out some implications for the relationship between production and consumption, for social relations under different modes of provision, and for alternative ways of delivering services.
Massive open online courses for continuing professional development of GPs
Authors: Player Emily , Shiner Alice , Steel Nick , Rodrigues Veena
Published: July 2020

Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential for the maintenance and improvement of the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals. GP registrars are required to evidence CPD in their ePortfolio and likewise, GPs are mandated to accrue and evidence a minimum of 50 hours CPD for their annual appraisal. CPD can be delivered in many ways, with an increasing movement towards online learning. Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) encompasses online learning and is ever changing. This article will discuss a type of TEL known as massive open online courses (MOOCs) and the role of MOOCs in delivering CPD.
Eculizumab as a promising treatment in thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis
Authors: Vélez-Santamaría Valentina , Nedkova Velina , Díez Laura , Homedes Christian , Alberti M. Antonia , Casasnovas Carlos
Published: July 2020

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disorder caused by antibodies directed against the neuromuscular junction. Some patients may have an associated thymoma, which confers a worse prognosis. Eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the activation of terminal complement, has recently been approved for the treatment of refractory generalized myasthenia gravis. This is an early case report of thymoma-associated refractory myasthenia gravis successfully treated with eculizumab in a real-world setting.
Sex effects across the lifespan in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Krysko Kristen M. , Graves Jennifer S. , Dobson Ruth , Altintas Ayse , Amato Maria Pia , Bernard Jacqueline , Bonavita Simona , Bove Riley , Cavalla Paola , Clerico Marinella , Corona Teresa , Doshi Anisha , Fragoso Yara , Jacobs Dina , Jokubaitis Vilija , Landi Doriana , Llamosa Gloria , Longbrake Erin E. , Maillart Elisabeth , Marta Monica , Midaglia Luciana , Shah Suma , Tintore Mar , van der Walt Anneke , Voskuhl Rhonda , Wang Yujie , Zabad Rana K. , Zeydan Burcu , Houtchens Maria , Hellwig Kerstin
Published: July 2020

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating central nervous system disorder that is more common in women, with onset often during reproductive years. The female:male sex ratio of MS rose in several regions over the last century, suggesting a possible sex by environmental interaction increasing MS risk in women. Since many with MS are in their childbearing years, family planning, including contraceptive and disease-modifying therapy (DMT) counselling, are important aspects of MS care in women. While some DMTs are likely harmful to the developing fetus, others can be used shortly before or until pregnancy is confirmed. Overall, pregnancy decreases risk of MS relapses, whereas relapse risk may increase postpartum, although pregnancy does not appear to be harmful for long-term prognosis of MS. However, ovarian aging may contribute to disability progression in women with MS. Here, we review sex effects across the lifespan in women with MS, including the effect of sex on MS susceptibility, effects of pregnancy on MS disease activity, and management strategies around pregnancy, including risks associated with DMT use before and during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding. We also review reproductive aging and sexual dysfunction in women with MS.
Percutaneous Bunionette Correction: Retrospective Case Series
Authors: Nunes Gustavo , Baumfeld Tiago , Nery Caio , Baumfeld Daniel , Carvalho Paulo , Cordier Guillaume
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Bunionette is a deformity of the fifth metatarsal in which there is a painful lateral bony prominence of the distal region of this bone caused by various anatomical and biomechanical changes. The aim of this study is to report on a minimally invasive technique without the use of hardware to treat these deformities. Methods. This is a case series of 18 patients, 25 feet, who underwent bunionette percutaneous surgical treatment. All patients answered the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale and the visual analogue pain scale (VAS) preoperatively and at the last follow-up. Standard radiological evaluation included measurement of intermetatarsal (4-5 IMA) and fifth toe metatarsophalangeal (5-MTTP) angles. Time to radiographic consolidation, complications, and satisfaction rate were also documented. Results. The average follow-up was 15.9 months, the AOFAS increased from 49.6 to 92.4 and the VAS decreased from 7.7 to 1.2. It was observed that average 5-MTTP decreased from 15° to 2.7° and that 4-5-IMA decreased from 9.1° to 3.3°. These outcomes showed a statistically significant difference ( P < .001). The most common observed complication was the formation of a hypertrophic bone callus in the third postoperative month in three operated feet (12%). One patient had algodystrophy, which improved after conservative treatment. There were no cases of infection, neuropraxis, or recurrences. Fifteen patients rated the result as excellent, 2 as good, and 2 as regular. Conclusion. Percutaneous osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal without the use of hardware is a safe, reproducible technique and presents good clinical and radiographic results for the treatment of bunionette.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic studies, Level IV: Case series
See Me, Like Me! Exploring Viewers’ Visual Attention to and Trait Perceptions of Party Leaders on Instagram
Authors: Lindholm Jenny , Carlson Tom , Högväg Joachim
Published: July 2020

The use of visual self-personalization by politicians to shape perceptions of their character and personality is a prominent form of modern political communication, especially on social media. Yet, little is known about the effect these portrayals have on the visual attention of voters and their impressions of the traits of the politicians depicted. This exploratory study examines the effects of visual self-personalization (professional vs. private focus) by Finnish political leaders of both genders on Instagram. Through a pilot laboratory study, viewers’ visual attention was measured using eye-tracking technology and, in combination with this, leader trait impressions were experimentally examined. The results indicate that photos depicting politicians in professional settings are more attention grabbing and effective in shaping trait impressions than photos showing politicians in private life. Among the recommendations for future research, it is noted that gender aspects should be further explored as this study, by focusing on a gender-egalitarian country, had a limited scope in that respect.
Adipose tissue gene expression of CXCL10 and CXCL11 modulates inflammatory markers in obesity: implications for metabolic inflammation and insulin resistance
Authors: Kochumon Shihab , Madhoun Ashraf Al , Al-Rashed Fatema , Azim Rafaat , Al-Ozairi Ebaa , Al-Mulla Fahd , Ahmad Rasheed
Published: July 2020

Background:

The CXCL subfamily of chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11; angiostatic chemokines) plays a key role in many inflammatory diseases. However, the expression of CXCLs in adipose tissue (AT) during obesity and association of these CXCLs with inflammatory markers and insulin resistance are poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of CXCL gene expression on subcutaneous AT inflammatory markers and insulin resistance.

Methods:

Subcutaneous-fat biopsies were collected from 59 nondiabetic (lean/overweight/obese) individuals for RNA isolation. Expression levels of AT CXCL and inflammatory markers were determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Biomedical parameters in the plasma were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Insulin resistance was estimated using homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR).

Results:

AT CXCL expression was higher in obese compared with lean individuals ( p < 0.05) and positively correlated with body mass index (BMI; r ⩾ 0.269, p < 0.05). Expression of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 correlated significantly with various pro-inflammatory markers, including family members of interleukins, chemokines, and their prospective receptors ( r ⩾ 0.339, p ⩽ 0.009), but not anti-inflammatory markers. CXCL11 expression correlated specifically with the expression of CCL5, CCL18, TLR3, TLR4, TLR8, IRF5, and NF-κB ( r ⩾ 0.279, p ⩽ 0.039). Notably, CXCL11 was correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and HOMA-IR. In multiple regression analysis, CXCL11 was identified as an independent predictor of CCL19, CCL5, IL-6, and TLR3.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that the CXCL family members, specifically CXCL10 and CXCL11, are potential biomarkers for the onset of AT inflammation during obesity.
A narrative systematic review of tobacco cessation interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Peer Nasheeta , Naicker Ashika , Khan Munira , Kengne Andre-Pascal
Published: July 2020

Aim:

In the face of increasing tobacco consumption in Sub-Saharan Africa, it is crucial to not only curb the uptake of tobacco, but to ensure that tobacco users quit. Considering the minimal attention that tobacco cessation interventions receive in Sub-Saharan Africa, this review aims to describe studies that evaluated tobacco cessation interventions in the region.

Methods:

A search of studies published till December 2019 that evaluated tobacco cessation interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa and examined tobacco quit rates was conducted in PubMed-Medline, Web of Science and Scopus. Study designs were not limited to randomised control trials but needed to include a control group.

Results:

Of the 454 titles and abstracts reviewed, eight studies, all conducted in South Africa, were included. The earliest publication was from 1988 and the most recent from 2019. Five studies were randomised control trials, two were quasi-experimental and one was a case–control study. Populations studied included community-based smokers (four studies) and university students, while the relevant clinic-based studies were conducted in pregnant women, tuberculosis patients and HIV-infected patients. Sample sizes were 23 in the case–control study, 87–561 in randomised control trials, and 979 (pregnant women) and 4090 (three rural communities) in the quasi-experimental studies. Four studies included nicotine replacement therapy in the interventions while four utilised only psychotherapy without adjunct pharmacotherapy. Quit rates were evaluated by exhaled carbon monoxide levels (five studies), blood carbon monoxide, urinary cotinine levels and self-reported quit rates. Four studies (two each with and without pharmacotherapy) reported significantly better outcomes in the intervention versus the control groups while one study findings (without pharmacotherapy) were significant in women but not men.

Conclusion:

This review highlights that scant attention has been paid to tobacco cessation intervention in Sub-Saharan Africa. The heterogeneity of these studies precluded comparisons across interventions or populations. There is a need for evidence-based low-cost tobacco cessation intervention that target high-risk population in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Introduction: Mediating borders: New boundaries for Hong Kong studies
Authors: Chu Yiu-Wai
Published: July 2020

There are myriad methods and tactics to study and examine Hong Kong as a former crown colony and a current Chinese special administrative region. Using the idea of border as a critical tool as well as the subject of critique, this special issue highlights and addresses a political and historical fact that the bordering, debordering and transbordering of Hong Kong, as long taken-for-granted through the media, has never been a fixed and stable boundary. If political binarism and cultural parochialism have walled up Hong Kong cultures from national or transnational transformations, the essays in this special issue seek to initiate new discussions and revisit old discovery of Hong Kong amid the ebb and flow of nationality, transnationality and globality. They respond to cross-border ventures in various ways, offering different views and engaging with one another as to shed light on how the changing borderscape might have impacts on the future development of Hong Kong culture.
Three principles of pragmatism for research on organizational processes
Authors: Kelly Leanne M , Cordeiro Maya
Published: July 2020

This article explicates pragmatism as a relevant and useful paradigm for qualitative research on organizational processes. The article focuses on three core methodological principles that underlie a pragmatic approach to inquiry: (1) an emphasis on actionable knowledge, (2) recognition of the interconnectedness between experience, knowing and acting and (3) inquiry as an experiential process. The authors’ doctoral projects on non-government organizations are used as examples to examine how the application of these principles strengthen each stage of the research process from project design and data collection to data analysis, conclusions and dissemination. This investigation suggests that pragmatism, which provides a guiding epistemological framework anchored in the inquiry process and research practicality, is a worthy paradigm for researching organizational processes. Pragmatism’s focus on the production of actionable knowledge is of particular benefit to research with non-government organizations, ensuring that research is contextually relevant as well as informed by theory.
Characterizing Objective and Self-Reported Levels of Physical Activity Among Florida Firefighters Across Weight Status Category: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Kling Hannah , Santiago Katerina , Benitez Leonor , Schaefer Solle Natasha , Caban-Martinez Alberto J.
Published: July 2020

Background: Firefighters suffer from a disproportionally high burden of chronic diseases that could be prevented from regular bouts of physical activity (PA). The goal(s) of this pilot study were to (a) describe typical PA levels in professional paid firefighters, and (b) assess their ability to estimate their own levels of PA. Methods: A repeated measures study design was used to assess self-reported and objectively measured levels of PA from a non-probabilistic sample of firefighters ( n = 18) over 1 week. Objective measures of PA, measured by accelerometry were defined as the number of minutes spent in sedentary, light, moderate, and vigorous PA. Firefighters completed a follow-up questionnaire recording their self-reported levels of PA. Results: Obese (body mass index [BMI] > 30 kg/m2) firefighters spent 8,033 ± 2,543 minutes/week in sedentary activity, overweight (BMI = 25–29 kg/m2) firefighters 6,533 ± 1,587 minutes/week, and healthy weight (BMI = 18.5–24.9 kg/m2) firefighters 5,846 ± 1,160 minutes/week. The difference in self-reported weekly minutes spent in light, moderate, and vigorous activity and objectively measured minutes in activity was calculated. Healthy weight firefighters reported the least difference (1,924 minutes/week), followed by the overweight (3,884 minutes/week) and obese (5,749 minutes/week). Conclusion/Application to Practice: Firefighters poorly estimated their true level of PA compared with their objectively measured PA and obese firefighters reported the greatest inconsistency. Occupational health nurses should aim to support firefighters in achieving PA levels that assist firefighters to achieve a healthy weight and educate them about what it means to be engaged in each level of PA.
Knowledge Brokering in an Era of Communication Visibility
Authors: van Zoonen Ward , Sivunen Anu
Published: July 2020

This study presents an analysis of the extent to which enterprise social media (ESM) use enhances visibility of content (message transparency) and connections (network translucence) in organizations, and how this affects knowledge brokering. The findings support the theory of communication visibility by demonstrating that ESM use is associated with perceptions of message transparency and network translucence. Furthermore, the findings suggest that employees, regardless of their position within a network, are provided with a vision advantage and thus have the ability to engage in knowledge brokering. Future work needs to examine the impact of network characteristics on these effects. This article contributes to our understanding of knowledge brokering in contemporary networked and mediated workplaces. Specifically, this article offers an analysis of the theory of communication visibility and demonstrates the mediating role of communication visibility in the relationship between ESM use and intraorganizational knowledge brokering activities.
Weaponizing the world
Authors: Schlee René , Opper Jan
Published: July 2020

This essay outlines a version of 2040, wherein advanced globalization, privatization, climate change and nationalism lead to a global and permanent condition of insecurity. Greater entanglement has not been seized as an opportunity to make a better world but has rather led to heightened and pervasive vulnerability. States as well as private companies with private armed forces are in constant, often violent, competition with each other. Key features of this future are the weaponization of all aspects of interdependence as well as, technological developments, unchecked in their military applications and the resulting democratization of violence. By outlining a variety of morbid symptoms, we highlight the impact of the crisis on the international liberal order, states and societies. Tracking back the origins of such ‘crisis’, the authors argue that forsaking the fundamental principle of universality and taking regionalization of international governance to another step may serve as a solution for the approaching 720-degree security dilemma.
COVID-19 Has Clarified 2 Foundational Policy Questions in Dentistry
Authors: Quiñonez C. , Vujicic M.
Published: July 2020

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, health policy debates about the importance of oral health and dental care were intensifying around the world. These debates were invariably complex and muddled by political, professional, and commercial interests. Although, in broad terms, 2 foundational questions have tended to undergird debates on how dental care should be addressed in health policy. These are: who should receive the support of governments, and what constitutes essential or medically necessary dental care? In our view, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided a stark social and policy context that has radically clarified both questions.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

This commentary can be used by governments, regulators, professional groups, and other stakeholders in their considerations of what constitutes essential or medically necessary dental care and how to best allocate dental care resources.
Distributed interactive brain circuits for object-in-place memory: A place for time?
Authors: Aggleton John P. , Nelson Andrew J.D.
Published: July 2020

Rodents will spontaneously learn the location of an individual object, an ability captured by the object-in-place test. This review considers the network of structures supporting this behavioural test, as well as some potential confounds that may affect interpretation. A hierarchical approach is adopted, as we first consider those brain regions necessary for two simpler, ‘precursor’ tests (object recognition and object location). It is evident that performing the object-in-place test requires an array of areas additional to those required for object recognition or object location. These additional areas include the rodent medial prefrontal cortex and two thalamic nuclei (nucleus reuniens and the medial dorsal nucleus), both densely interconnected with prefrontal areas. Consequently, despite the need for object and location information to be integrated for the object-in-place test, for example, via the hippocampus, other contributions are necessary. These contributions stem from how object-in-place is a test of associative recognition, as none of the individual elements in the test phase are novel. Parallels between the structures required for object-in-place and for recency discriminations, along with a re-examination of the demands of the object-in-place test, signal the integration of temporal information within what is usually regarded as a spatial-object test.
The Italian Response to the COVID-19 Crisis: Lessons Learned and Future Direction in Social Development
Authors: Sanfelici Mara
Published: July 2020

Against the backdrop of a continuously changing situation, the aim of this paper is to discuss the impact of COVID-19 crisis in Italy, the government response to cope with the crisis and the major lessons learned during its management. The analysis shows how Italy’s response has been characterised by some rapid measures to tackle the health crisis, but few plans in the mitigation stage and a lack of community involvement. This contribution stress the importance of a cultural shift, through the effort to apply in practice the principles already indicated in the main global policy frameworks to guide disaster management. A community social development approach can help to build concrete actions in this direction.
The Impact and Implications of COVID-19: An Australian Perspective
Authors: O’Sullivan Dominic , Rahamathulla Mubarak , Pawar Manohar
Published: July 2020

This article describes and discusses the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in Australia, its impact on people and the economy and policy responses to these impacts. It discusses the implications of these responses for post-pandemic recovery, though noting that the country’s response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has, thus far, been among the most successful in the world. Australia’s early physical distancing measures, relatively high per capita testing rates, political stability, national wealth and geographic isolation are among the explanatory factors. This article summarises Australia’s socio-economic responses to the pandemic and shows what this means, especially, for vulnerable groups, and thereby for social inequality, which the pandemic has aggravated and which may become more apparent, still, as debates about paths to economic and social recovery are in some respects already polarising. Although it is relatively early to clearly identify lessons learnt from these responses, it is safe to conclude that further policy development needs to be carefully focused to avoid exacerbating existing inequalities.
7th ICSDAP Conference in Bangladesh: Some Experiences and Reflections for the Way Forward
Authors: Sarkar Asok Kumar , Rahman Mamunur , Pawar Manohar
Published: July 2020

In the light of the unique experiences of the 7th ICSDAP Conference, this article includes a brief background, details of activities, challenges and opportunities, and outputs and outcomes. Our experiences and reflections suggest that organising international conferences to bring social development scholars together to deliberate on mutual areas of research and practice interests undoubtedly contributes to critical examination and dissemination of knowledge, at least to some extent. In addition, what is equally important, the process and experience of organising conferences appear to enhance our and host organisation’s learning and capacity-building, yielding benefit for everyone to build a better future by overcoming all the odds.
Coronavirus Health Inequities in the United States Highlight Need for Continued Community Development Efforts*
Authors: Walter-McCabe Heather A.
Published: July 2020

The coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic of 2020 has shown a spotlight on inequity in the USA. Although these inequities have long existed, the coronavirus and its disparate impact on health in different communities have raised the visibility of these deeply ingrained inequities to a level that has created a new awareness across the US population and an opportunity to use this heightened awareness of the existing conditions for change. ‘Community and social development’ efforts in the post-pandemic USA can be informed by a health justice framework, across economic, societal and cultural, environmental and social dimensions. Dimensions which have all been implicated in the coronavirus response and complement other social and community development models. Although health disparities and inequities did not begin with coronavirus and will not end in the post-pandemic USA, social and community development efforts which value health justice and concentrate on social determinants of health can provide needed policies and programmes for a more equitable US health system.
Sale and Sexual Exploitation of Children in the Context of  Travel and Tourism in Goa
Authors: Ferrao Ranjana
Published: July 2020

Tourism has three sides: the good, the bad and the ugly. The good side is it generates employment and brings in investment. Tourism earns the state an average Rs 4,000 crore annually. 23 lakh tourists visit Goa; this income contributes to 15 per cent of India’s foreign exchange. The bad side is everything has become commercial in a state like Goa, where employment opportunities are few and everyone wants to ride the bus of tourism. They want to set up hotels, rent their homes, bikes and cars or start some business to facilitate tourism. In this process, the beautiful scenic Goa has become a commercial hub. The ugly side is tourism not only brings tourists but also their culture, culture which views children as sex objects or views sex with a child as normal behaviour. This has made Goa the sex capital of India. Many Indian and foreign tourists come in search of child sex in Goa. Goa is also openly advertised as a state with free and liberal values. This has made our children vulnerable. There are various ways in which the sex offenders get access to children. Some approach the children directly on the beach, while others offer them a drink or a meal before taking them back their hotel rooms. Many contact children through their social media platforms. After making friends and chatting with them for a considerable period of time, they fix a meeting with them only to exploit them. Many people function as agents who are involved in supplying children to these men who come in search of them. This article discusses the evil effects of tourism on children such as sale of children, child sexual abuse, child pornography, child prostitution and paedophilia. Abuse and exploitation of children in tourism can have severe impact on children; it can also affect the tourist destination. The article will discuss ethical methods, which can be adopted to encourage tourism and keep the children of Goa safe.