bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Attitudes in Transit and Auto Users’ Mode Choice of Ridesourcing
Authors: Azimi Ghazaleh , Rahimi Alireza , Asgari Hamidreza , Jin Xia
Published: August 2020

This paper presents the results of a study that examines the factors that influence travelers’ mode choice between transit and ridesourcing, for two distinct market segments—transit users in a regular context and auto users in occasional situations when a private vehicle is not available. Data from a stated preference (SP) survey were used for this study. Specifically, responses to a set of attitude-related questions were used to extract latent attitude factors that represent various aspects of attitudes toward mobility options. Mixed logit models were developed for the two classes. Socioeconomic and demographic attributes, as well as the attitudinal factors, were explored as independent variables. Model results revealed distinct behavior patterns between transit users and auto users. For transit users, the decision to shift to ridesourcing is highly affected by the perceptions of time and cost as well as motivations for technology, while the concerns on traveling with strangers and joy of driving were major barriers for auto users to use ridesourcing. Auto users would use ridesourcing when they believed that they would receive higher utilities, in relation to time, cost, reliability, convenience, comfort, stress relief, and so forth. This study provides further insights into the contributing factors to the choice between transit and ridesourcing. The results present a better understanding of the potential market for ridesourcing and highlight underlying attitudes that have significant influences on choice behavior. The findings could be helpful for planners and service providers to better plan for and address the needs and concerns of travelers.
Effect of Posterior Glenoid Bone Loss and Retroversion on Arthroscopic Posterior Glenohumeral Stabilization
Authors: Wolfe Jared A. , Elsenbeck Michael , Nappo Kyle , Christensen Daniel , Waltz Robert , LeClere Lance , Dickens Jonathan F.
Published: August 2020

Background:

Posterior glenohumeral instability is an increasingly recognized cause of shoulder instability, but little is known about the incidence or effect of posterior glenoid bone loss.

Purpose:

To determine the incidence, characteristics, and failure rate of posterior glenoid deficiency in shoulders undergoing isolated arthroscopic posterior shoulder stabilization.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

All patients undergoing isolated posterior labral repair and glenoid-based capsulorrhaphy with suture anchors between 2008 and 2016 at a single institution were identified. Posterior bone deficiency was calculated per the best-fit circle method along the inferior two-thirds of the glenoid by 2 independent observers. Patients were divided into 2 groups: minimal (0%-13.5%) and moderate (>13.5%) posterior bone loss. The primary outcome was reoperation for any reason. The secondary outcomes were military separation and placement on permanent restricted duty attributed to the operative shoulder.

Results:

A total of 66 shoulders met the inclusion criteria, with 10 going on to reoperation after a median follow-up of 16 months (range, 14-144 months). Of the total shoulders, 86% (57/66) had ≤13.5% bone loss and 14% (9/66) had >13.5%. Patients with moderate posterior glenoid bone loss had significantly greater retroversion (−11.5° vs −4.3°; P = .01). Clinical failure requiring reoperation was seen in 10.5% of patients in the minimal bone deficiency group and 44.4% in the moderate group ( P = .024). There was no difference between groups in rate of military separation or restricted duty. Patients with moderate posterior glenoid bone deficiency were more likely to be experiencing instability instead of pain on initial presentation ( P < .001), were more likely to have a positive Jerk test result ( P = .05), and had increased glenoid retroversion ( P = .01).

Conclusion:

In shoulders with moderate glenoid bone deficiency (>13.5%) and increased glenoid retroversion, posterior capsulolabral repair alone may result in higher reoperation rates than in shoulders without bone deficiency.
The EU Emissions Trading System in Crisis-Ridden Greece: Climate under Neoliberalism
Authors: Vlachou Andriana , Pantelias Georgios
Published: August 2020

Neoliberal capitalism has extended the use of markets to address climate and energy issues. Carbon trading characteristically exemplifies the neoliberalization of climate policy. This paper discusses the workings of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) in the European Union (EU) with a focus on its application in crisis-ridden Greece. Beyond environmental effectiveness and distributional effects, the paper explores the interactions of the EU ETS with crisis, austerity programs, energy poverty, and uneven development. Despite adjustments and changes, the EU ETS continues to indicate limited environmental effectiveness and unjust distributional effects. Moreover, by forging a centralized neoliberal transition to a low-carbon economy without consideration of the issues faced by unevenly developed and crisis-stricken EU members such as Greece, the EU ETS leads to additional disturbances and problems for the Greek economy as a whole, its pauperized working people, and its energy and climate options to reduce emissions on its own potential, needs, and priorities.
When Does Sexuality Matter? Cross-cultural Analysis of Gay Identity
Authors: Izienicki Hubert
Published: August 2020

Many scholars have studied migrant gay men, but few have examined the changing salience (i.e., a subjective importance a person attributes to a particular identity) of sexual identity across cultural contexts. Drawing on 45 in-depth interviews, this study investigates the experiences of two groups of Polish migrant gay men—one that migrated from various parts of Poland to Warsaw, and one that emigrated from Poland to Chicago—to examine the differences in their respective sexual identity salience. I find that the interaction of the cultural climate, structural factors, and respondents’ individual status characteristics can better account for between- and in-group differences among the Chicago and Warsaw men. Respondent’s occupation, educational attainment, work environment, race, same-sex experiences before migration, the timing of migration, and English langue fluency variably affected how and when sexual identity mattered to these men.
Environmental impact assessment of municipal solid waste management value chain: A case study from Pakistan
Authors: Atta Uzma , Hussain Majid , Malik Riffat Naseem
Published: August 2020

The present study quantified environmental impacts of the Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC) value chain in Pakistan for three consecutive years (2015–2018) using a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. Energy potential from municipal solid wastes (MSW) was also predicted till the year 2050. Based on a functional unit of 1.0 tonne of MSW, the study analyzed inputs and outputs data through SimaPro v.8.3 applying CML 2000 methodology and cumulative exergy demand indicator (CExD). LCA revealed that operational activities of RWMC mainly contributed to marine aquatic ecotoxicity, i.e. 8962.83 kg1,4-DBeq t−1 MSW, indicating long-range transport of petrogenic hydrocarbons from the company’s fleet gasoline combustion. Similarly, human toxicity potential, global warming potential and freshwater aquatic ecotoxicity potential were also found to be significant, i.e. 18.14 kg1,4-DBeq t−1 MSW, 15.79 kgCO2eq t−1 MSW and 6.22 kg1,4-DBeq t−1 MSW, respectively. The CExD showed that company activities consumed 827.14 MJ t−1 MSW exergy from nature, and gasoline used in MSW transport was the most exergy-intensive process, using 634.47 MJ exergy per tonne MSW disposed of. Projections for energy generation potential up to the year 2050 showed that MSW of Rawalpindi city will have the potential to produce 3901 megawatt of energy to fulfill the energy needs of the country. Possible stratagems to reduce environmental impacts from the municipal solid waste management (MSWM) value chain of RWMC include curtailing dependency on petrogenic and fossil fuels in mobile sources, optimization of waste collection methods and dumping routes, inclining attention toward suitable wastes-to-energy conversion technology and opting for a holistic approach of MSWM in Pakistan.
How to increase recycling rates. The case of aluminium packaging in Austria
Authors: Warrings Rainer , Fellner Johann
Published: August 2020

The recycling of aluminium (Al) packaging as a single fraction is a new obligation within the Circular Economy Package of the EU, with mandatory recycling rates of 50% for 2025 and 60% for 2030. The case study of Al packaging in Austria has been chosen to assess if and what measures need to be taken to achieve these recycling rates and what costs arise from these measures. In particular, the following options of Al recovery, and combinations thereof, have been investigated: bottom ash (BA) treatment; material recovery facilities (MRF) for mixed municipal solid waste; and changes to the selective collection system. The results of the study reveal that the present recycling rate of 55% for A1 packaging in Austria might be improved most significantly by MRF (up to 94%) and advanced BA treatment (up to 72%). Only minor improvements in the recycling rate (+2%) are achievable via a change in the collection system from selective metal to a mixed selective collection (joint collection of metal and lightweight packaging). If the only aim were to increase the recycling rates for Al packaging beyond the future target of 60%, an improvement in the Al recovery rates from BA treatment would be sufficient. With regard to increased recycling quantities of all recyclables, plastics in particular, the implementation of complex systems such as MRF makes sense, even if this results in higher costs for Al recovery (increasing from the current 480 to 640 € t-1 of recycled Al).
A Sociology of Luck
Authors: Sauder Michael
Published: August 2020

Sociology has been curiously silent about the concept of luck. The present article argues that this omission is, in fact, an oversight: An explicit and systematic engagement with luck provides a more accurate portrayal of the social world, opens potentially rich veins of empirical and theoretical inquiry, and offers a compelling alternative for challenging dominant meritocratic frames about inequality and the distribution of rewards. This article develops a framework for studying luck, first by proposing a working definition of luck, examining why sociology has ignored luck in the past, and making the case for the value of including luck in sociology’s conceptual repertoire. The article then demonstrates the fertile research potential of studying luck by identifying a host of research questions and hypotheses pertaining to the social construction of luck, the real effects of luck, and theoretical interventions related to luck. It concludes by highlighting the distinctive contributions sociology can make to the growing interdisciplinary interest in this topic.
Protective effects of deferoxamine on lead-induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Gazeri Alireza , Aminzadeh Azadeh
Published: August 2020

Because of the numerous industrial applications of lead (Pb), Pb poisoning is an important public health threat in the world particularly in developing and industrialized countries. Oxidative stress is one of the important mechanisms of Pb-mediated toxicity. Deferoxamine (DFO) is an iron chelating agent that has recently shown antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects. This study investigated the protective capacity of DFO against Pb-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. We used five groups in this study: control, DFO (300 mg/kg), Pb (50 mg/kg), DFO (150 mg/kg) + Pb, DFO (300 mg/kg) + Pb. DFO was administered intraperitoneally 30 min before intraperitoneal injection of Pb for 5 days. After drug treatment, the levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione (GSH), and antioxidant enzymes were measured in serum and heart samples. The results showed that pretreatment with DFO reduced Pb-induced oxidative stress markers in serum and cardiac tissues. We found that LDH and LPO levels were significantly increased in Pb-treated rats and decreased with DFO pre-administration. Furthermore, the decreased activities of total antioxidant capacity, and GSH were observed after Pb treatment. However, DFO administration effectively prevented the Pb-induced alterations of these antioxidant enzymes activities. In conclusion, the results presented here indicate that DFO has protective effects in Pb-induced cardiotoxicity in rats, probably due to its antioxidant action and inhibition of oxidative stress.
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles-induced cytogenotoxicity and alterations in haematological indices of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)
Authors: Ogunsuyi Opeoluwa M , Adegoye Elizabeth O , Ogunsuyi Olusegun I , Alabi Okunola A , Alimba Chibuisi G , Bakare Adekunle A
Published: August 2020

The application of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) in the manufacturing of consumer products has increased tremendously and with the potential to induce deleterious effects on aquatic biota. There have been reports on metal oxide NP toxicity in aquatic organisms, however, information on cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of TiO2 NPs on the African catfish, Clarias gariepinus, is scarce. In this study, we investigated the genotoxicity and haematotoxicity of TiO2 NPs in C. gariepinus using the micronucleus (MN) assay and haematological analysis, respectively. Juvenile C. gariepinus were exposed to 6.25, 12.5, 25.0, 50.0 and 100.0 mg L−1 concentrations of TiO2 NPs for 7 and 28 days. Benzene (0.05 mL L−1) and dechlorinated tap water were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Data of the MN showed a significant ( p < 0.05) concentration-dependent increase in the frequency of MN at both exposure periods in comparison to negative control. Red blood cells, haematocrit, platelets and heterophils significantly reduced with an increased mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration and lymphocytes at the 7-day exposure period, while in the 28-day exposure period, mean cell volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and lymphocytes had a significant increase in comparison with the negative control. This study indicates that TiO2 NPs induced cytogenetic and haematological alterations in C. gariepinus and is of relevance in biodiversity and aquatic health management.
Liposuction and Lipoinjection in Defining the Interactive Areas of the Back, Thighs, and Buttocks, for a More Enhanced Gluteoplasty
Authors: Elmelegy Nader Gomaa
Published: August 2020

The measurements of beautiful buttocks have varied according to patient preference, different cultures, and ethnicity. There are great differences in the ideal aesthetic measurements of the buttocks among ethnic groups. In this work, the authors introduce an easy and versatile method for the assessment of “Gluteal-Related Aesthetic Subunits.” This method works as a tool to perform liposuction and lipoinjection, to treat the variety of differences in patients’ racial, cultural, personal preferences, and ethnic-related demands, thus improving the results of gluteal aesthetic surgery. This study was carried out on 148 patients, at plastic and reconstructive surgery department, Tanta University hospitals, and in private practice, in the period between 2010 and 2018. The aesthetic assessment and surgical planning were performed according to the criteria suggested by the authors of this work. Patient’s satisfaction showed excellent results in 104 (70.2%) patients, good results in 39 (26.4%) patients, fair results in 5 (3.4%) patients, and no poor results. Clinical assessment showed excellent results in 96 (64.8%) patients, good results in 44 (29.7%) patients, fair results in 8 (5.5%) patients, and no poor results were reported. (1) We believe that this classification of buttock areas is a valuable step that could help in achieving the required results that are more satisfactory to different types of patients. (2) Despite all the merits of this analytical tool and the advantages of the innovations in liposuction, some limitations remain. Fat transfer alone will not treat and even may worsen ptosis.
COVID-19-Associated Critical Illness—Report of the First 300 Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Units at a New York City Medical Center
Authors: Chand Sudham , Kapoor Sumit , Orsi Deborah , Fazzari Melissa J. , Tanner Tristan G. , Umeh Genevieve C. , Islam Marjan , Dicpinigaitis Peter V.
Published: August 2020

Background:

The first confirmed case of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection in the United States was reported from the state of Washington in January, 2020. By March, 2020, New York City had become the epicenter of the outbreak in the United States.

Methods:

We tracked all patients with confirmed coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) infection admitted to intensive care units (ICU) at Montefiore Medical Center (Bronx, NY). Data were obtained through manual review of electronic medical records. Patients had at least 30 days of follow-up.

Results:

Our first 300 ICU patients were admitted March 10 through April 11, 2020. The majority (60.7%) of patients were men. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was documented in 91.7% of patients; 91.3% required mechanical ventilation. Prone positioning was employed in 58% of patients and neuromuscular blockade in 47.8% of mechanically-ventilated patients. Neither intervention was associated with decreased mortality. Vasopressors were required in 77.7% of patients. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was present on admission in 40.7% of patients, and developed subsequently in 36.0%; 50.9% of patients with AKI received renal replacement therapy (RRT). Overall 30-day mortality rate was 52.3%, and 55.8% among patients receiving mechanical ventilation. In univariate analysis, higher mortality rate was associated with increasing age, male sex, hypertension, obesity, smoking, number of comorbidities, AKI on presentation, and need for vasopressor support. A representative multivariable model for 30-day mortality is also presented, containing patient age, gender, body mass index, and AKI at admission. As of May 11, 2020, 2 patients (0.7%) remained hospitalized.

Conclusions:

Mortality in critical illness associated with COVID-19 is high. The majority of patients develop ARDS requiring mechanical ventilation, vasopressor-dependent shock, and AKI. The variation in mortality rates reported to date likely reflects differences in the severity of illness of the evaluated populations.
Unspoken: Child–Perpetrator Dynamic in the Context of Intrafamilial Child Sexual Abuse
Authors: Katz Carmit , Field1 Noa
Published: August 2020

The literature on child sexual abuse (CSA) has contributed greatly to the understanding of child–perpetrator dynamic while mainly addressing the concepts of grooming and manipulation. Considerably less attention has been dedicated, however, to child–perpetrator dynamic in intrafamilial child sexual abuse (IFCSA). The current study examined how children perceive and experience the dynamic with their perpetrator parents in the context of IFCSA, as conveyed by victims. Analysis of 29 forensic interviews with children aged 8 to 14 years suggested above all, across all identified themes, the unspoken nature of IFCSA. Specifically, the children shared their surprise at the abusive incidents despite having described a long and unspoken grooming process. The children shared their understanding of the secretive nature of IFCSA although that too was unspoken, while illustrating the fear and terror in the family dynamic. Finally, the children discussed the elusiveness of the dynamic in terms of the natural and unnatural aspects of the relationship. The discussion addresses the unique nature of IFCSA and the family dynamic. The main implication for practice is the urgent need to modify existing instruction and training programs for practitioners to better adjust them to IFCSA survivors. More specifically, the elusive nature of IFCSA must be conveyed to both clinical and forensic practitioners who need to evaluate and intervene in with child survivors of IFCSA. In addition, the fear and terror that characterize the family dynamic and the unspoken, unbridled rule of the perpetrator fathers are of central importance in adapting interventions to children and their families in the context of IFCSA.
Antenatal-Based Pilot Psychosocial Intervention to Enhance Mental Health of Pregnant Women Experiencing Domestic and Family Violence in Nepal
Authors: Sapkota Diksha , Baird Kathleen , Saito Amornrat , Rijal Pappu , Anderson Debra
Published: August 2020

Survivors of domestic and family violence (DFV) report poorer quality of life and worsening mental health. This study evaluated the effect of a counseling and education intervention on the mental health and help-seeking behaviors among pregnant women living with DFV. A parallel pilot randomized controlled trial was performed among 140 pregnant women attending an antenatal clinic of a tertiary hospital of Nepal. Using computer-generated random numbers, participants were randomized to the intervention group (a counseling session, an information booklet about DFV, and contact details of the counselor) or a control group (usual care plus a booklet containing contact details of local DFV support services). Outcome measures included mental health, quality of life (QOL), self-efficacy, social support, and safety planning behaviors. Analyses followed intention-to-treat, using the generalized estimating equation model. Intervention participants showed significant improvements in anxiety (β = −3.24, p < .001) and depression (β = −3.16, p < .001) at postintervention. Such improvements were also sustained at follow-up assessment ( p < .001). Significant group and time interaction for QOL, social support, use of safety behaviors, and self-efficacy ( p < .05) revealed a greater increase in these outcome measures among intervention participants at both follow-up assessments compared with the control group. This pilot integrated intervention showed promising outcomes in improving the mental health, social support, and the use of safety behaviors among women with DFV. This intervention could be incorporated into regular antenatal care as a strategy to identify and support victims of DFV. Larger controlled trials with longer follow-up are needed to support and expand on the current findings regarding the effectiveness of a psychosocial intervention targeting victims of DFV in resource-constrained settings.
‘We Are All in This Together’. Collective Bonuses and Incentives in the United Kingdom and Europe: The Real Performance-Related Pay?
Authors: Brown Duncan
Published: August 2020

‘We are all in this together’ has been a common leadership cry during the coronavirus crisis. But do their rewards designs generally reinforce collective performance? Why have collective bonus and incentive plans made little headway in Europe and what is the evidence on their effectiveness? The author presents findings from a bonus and incentive research review carried out for a major oil company. He found two-thirds of companies operate variable pay plans, with three-quarters of them based on individual performance. Collective plans are, however, spreading in incidence. The research literature he found replicates the North American evidence, indicating collective schemes are associated with higher performance across a variety of metrics. But they are not universally successful. Risks include diminishing effectiveness over time and lack of employee understanding. The research highlights success depends on tailoring to suit the culture and using a range of high-performance work practices. The author concludes success is more likely where collective plans are viewed ‘not just as a vehicle for disseminating incentives but for imparting a sense of shared ownership’.
Discharge Communication of Dementia-Related Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Care Management Strategies During Hospital to Skilled Nursing Facility Transitions
Authors: Gilmore-Bykovskyi Andrea L. , Hovanes Melissa , Mirr Jacquelyn , Block Laura
Published: August 2020

Provided the complexity of managing dementia-related neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), accurate communication about these symptoms at hospital discharge is critical to facilitating safe and effective transitions, particularly transitions from hospitals to skilled nursing facilities (SNF), which are often poorly managed. Skilled nursing facilities providers have cited undercommunication regarding NPS as a major challenge that contributes to poor outcomes including rehospitalization. This multisite retrospective cohort study identified omission rates for NPS and associated management strategies in discharge communication as compared to medical record documentation in the 72 hours preceding discharge among hospitalized patients with dementia. High rates of omission were found across NPS and management strategies: anxiety (94%), agitation/aggression (77%), hallucinations (85%), 1:1 supervision (90%), high fall risk (89%), use of restraints (91%). Omission rate for new or modified antipsychotic medication was 12.9%. Findings underscore the need for additional research on cross-setting communication regarding care needs of patients with dementia—who often cannot communicate these needs on their own—in facilitating high-quality transitions.
Taguchi optimization of surface roughness in the turning of Hastelloy C22 super alloy using cryogenically treated ceramic inserts
Authors: Akincioğlu Sıtkı , Gökkaya Hasan , Akincioğlu Gülşah , Karataş Meltem A
Published: August 2020

Cryogenic treatment has been used in recent years to improve the performance of cutting tools. This study evaluated the machinability of a nickel–molybdenum-based super alloy using cryogenically treated (–80 ℃ and –145 ℃) ceramic inserts under dry turning conditions. Three cutting speeds (350, 400, and 450 m/min), three feed rates (0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mm/rev), and a 1-mm fixed cutting depth were used in the turning tests. Experiments were conducted using the Taguchi orthogonal array L27 design. The factors affecting the surface roughness (Ra) were determined via analysis of variance. The effect of cryogenic treatment type (shallow and deep), cutting speed, and feed rate on surface roughness was investigated. Results of the analysis determined that the feed rate was the major parameter that affected surface roughness and that the deep cryogenic treatment was more effective. The regression analysis confirmed that the experimental results and the predicted values were within the 95% confidence interval. The most effective parameter affecting the surface roughness was feed rate at a contribution of 57.9%. The contribution of the cutting tool type to the surface roughness was 28.5%. The results obtained showed that the surface roughness can be optimized for turning the Hastelloy c22 super alloy with the Taguchi method.
Effectiveness of binary chemical reaction on magneto-fluid flow with Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model
Authors: Reddy SRR , Reddy P Bala Anki , Rashad AM
Published: August 2020

An analysis has been carried out the effect of binary chemical reaction on the MHD Casson fluid flow over an exponentially stretching surface in the presence of Cattaneo-Christov heat flux. Additionally, the aspects of binary chemical reaction effects with modified Arrhenius activation energy are analyzed. The stretching velocity, reaction rate, wall temperature and wall concentration are expected to differ according to specific exponential form. Appropriate self-transformed variables are used to deal with non-linear differential systems which are solved by the Runge-Kutta scheme. The impacts of active parameters are manifested graphically in velocity, temperature and concentration fields for two different fluid cases namely Newtonian and Non-Newtonian. This investigation divulges that the Newtonian fluid has a higher temperature than non-Newtonian fluid. Strengthen the magnetic field causes the Newtonian/non-Newtonian fluid flow tends to declines.
Feminisms and decolonising psychology: Possibilities and challenges
Authors: Macleod Catriona Ida , Bhatia Sunil , Liu Wen
Published: August 2020

In this special issue, we bring together papers that speak to feminisms in relation to decolonisation in the discipline of psychology. The six articles and two book reviews address a range of issues: race, citizenship, emancipatory politics, practising decolonial refusal, normalising slippery subjectivity, Islamic anti-patriarchal liberation psychology, and decolonisation of the hijab. In this editorial we outline the papers’ contributions to discussions on understanding decolonisation, how feminisms and decolonisation speak to each other, and the implications of the papers for feminist decolonising psychology. Together the papers highlight the importance of undermining the gendered coloniality of power, knowledge and being. The interweaving of feminisms and decolonising efforts can be achieved through: each mutually informing and shaping the other, conducting intersectional analyses, and drawing on transnational feminisms. Guiding principles for feminist decolonising psychology include: undermining the patriarchal colonialist legacy of mainstream psychological science; connecting gendered coloniality with other systems of power such as globalisation; investigating topics that surface the intertwining of colonialist and gendered power relations; using research methods that dovetail with feminist decolonising psychology; and focussing praxis on issues that enable decolonisation. Given the complexities of the coloniality and patriarchy of power-knowledge-being, feminist decolonising psychology may fail. The issues raised in this special issue point to why it mustn’t.
Evaluation of the protective effect of paricalcitol and vitamin D3 at doxorubicin nephrotoxicity in rats with 99mTechnetium-dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy and biochemical methods
Authors: Demir Fadime , Demir Mustafa , Aygun Hatice
Published: August 2020

Aim:

The present study aimed to examine the effect of paricalcitol (PRC) and vitamin D3 (vit D3) on doxorubicin (DOX)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-two Wistar rats were randomly categorized into six groups: control; 2) PRC(0.5 µg/kg) and 3) vit D3(5.000 IU/kg) administered for 14 days; 4) DOX, 18 mg/kg administered on the 12th, 13th and 14th days of the study; 5) PRC (0.5 µg/kg, +DOX(18 mg/kg); vit D3(5.000 IU)+DOX(18 mg/kg). On the 15th day of the experiment, 99mTc-DMSA uptake level and biochemical parameter in serum and tissue were assay.

Results:

Activities of 99mTechnetium-Dimercaptosuccinic Acid (99mTc-DMSA) were lower in groups receiving DOX and/or PRC+DOX, vit D3+DOX than in control groups. The 99mTc-DMSA level in the group PRC+DOX and vit D3+DOX were importantly higher than DOX group. DOX caused an important increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α(TNF- α), interleukin-6(IL-6) and nitric oxide(NO) levels compared to control groups. However, PRC and vit D3 pretreatments lowered them. Uptake of 99mTc-DMSA level was higher in groups PRC+DOX than in vit D3+DOX group. Administration of PRC and vit D3 alone did not change alterations all of parameters.

Conclusion:

The results indicated that PRC administration protects kidney in DOX-induced nephrotoxic rats. In addition, PRC has a stronger nephroprotective effect than vit D3.
Dexamethasone and losartan combination treatment protected cigarette smoke-induced COPD in rats
Authors: Sokar Samia S , Afify Esraa H , Osman Enass Y
Published: August 2020

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a dangerous prevalent smoking-related disease characterized by abnormal inflammation and oxidative stress and expected to be the third cause of death in the world next decade. Corticosteroids have low effects in decreasing numbers of inflammatory mediators specifically in long-term use. Our study designed to investigate the possible protective effects of combined dexamethasone (Dex) (2mg/kg) and losartan (Los) (30mg/kg angiotensin receptor blocker, it possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in lung injury in mice) against cigarette -smoke (CS) induced COPD in rats compared with dexamethasone and losartan. Male Sprague Dawley rats (N = 40) divided into five groups (n = 8): control group, CS group, Dex group, Los group, and Dex +Los group. COPD induced in rats by CS exposure twice daily for 10 weeks. After the specified treatment period, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue were collected for measurement of SOD, NO, MDA, ICAM-, MMP-9, CRP, NF-κB and histopathology scoring. Our results indicated that Los+Dex significantly prevent CS-induced COPD emphysema, congested alveoli, and elevation of lung injury parameters in BALF. They also showed a significant decrease in MDA, ICAM-1, MMP-9, CRP, and NF-κB and a significant increase in SOD and NO. In conclusion, adding Los to Dex potentiating their activity in inhibition the progression of COPD based on its activity on oxidative stress, inflammation, and NF-κB protein expression.
The best of two worlds
Authors: Westad Frank , Gidskehaug Lars , Miller Chuck
Published: August 2020

With the latest release of Unscrambler, Camo Analytics introduced support for Python scripting, giving users the best of two worlds. This Python extension allows users to tap into the vast ecosystem of Data Science tools that are continually being produced in the Python community, while still leveraging the familiar data handling, validation and visualization features of Unscrambler – all contained within a fully compliant framework. This paper discusses the value propositions that the Python extension can provide to Unscrambler users, and follows this up with some specific examples of common workflows that are enabled by this extension: Data Importing, Spectral Preprocessing and Innovative Modeling methods.
Acceptance of evidence-based nursing databases by educational nurses using Rogers’ model
Authors: Dehghan Salmasi Najme , Kazerani Maryam , Shekofteh Maryam , Jambarsang Sara
Published: August 2020

Nurses always need accurate, up-to-date and reliable information. Evidence-based resources can be an appropriate approach to this need. The first step in utilizing these resources is to acknowledge them and use them in clinical practice. This descriptive cross-sectional study was designed to determine the acceptance rate of evidence-based databases by nurses based on Rogers’ innovation-diffusion model. A total of 214 nurses working in educational hospitals participated in the study in 2019. The data collection tool was a questionnaire, with confirmed validity and reliability, which was designed based on five components of Rogers’ model: knowledge, persuasion, decision, implementation and confirmation. The data analysis was performed using SPPS Version 23 to compute descriptive and analytical statistics indices. Based on the categories in Rogers’ model, the nurses had moderate views on the rate of acceptance of evidence-based databases, limited (low) knowledge and awareness of the databases, a favorable persuasion level and a low implementation rate. Well-educated, senior educational supervisors and nurses were more in line with persuasion, knowledge and implementation of evidence-based resources. According to the regression analysis ( p < 0.001), persuasion and confirmation components had the greatest effect on the acceptance of databases, indicating the significance of providing evidence-based nursing education, both formal and informal, using the related databases.
Model-robust designs for nonlinear quantile regression
Authors: Selvaratnam Selvakkadunko , Kong Linglong , Wiens Douglas P
Published: August 2020

We construct robust designs for nonlinear quantile regression, in the presence of both a possibly misspecified nonlinear quantile function and heteroscedasticity of an unknown form. The asymptotic mean-squared error of the quantile estimate is evaluated and maximized over a neighbourhood of the fitted quantile regression model. This maximum depends on the scale function and on the design. We entertain two methods to find designs that minimize the maximum loss. The first is local – we minimize for given values of the parameters and the scale function, using a sequential approach, whereby each new design point minimizes the subsequent loss, given the current design. The second is adaptive – at each stage, the maximized loss is evaluated at quantile estimates of the parameters, and a kernel estimate of scale, and then the next design point is obtained as in the sequential method. In the context of a Michaelis–Menten response model for an estrogen/hormone study, and a variety of scale functions, we demonstrate that the adaptive approach performs as well, in large study sizes, as if the parameter values and scale function were known beforehand and the sequential method applied. When the sequential method uses an incorrectly specified scale function, the adaptive method yields an, often substantial, improvement. The performance of the adaptive designs for smaller study sizes is assessed and seen to still be very favourable, especially so since the prior information required to design sequentially is rarely available.
Human Amnion Epithelial Cells Produce Soluble Factors that Enhance Liver Repair by Reducing Fibrosis While Maintaining Regeneration in a Model of Chronic Liver Injury
Authors: Hodge Alexander , Andrewartha Neil , Lourensz Dinushka , Strauss Robyn , Correia Jeanne , Goonetilleke Mihiri , Yeoh George , Lim Rebecca , Sievert William
Published: August 2020

Human amnion epithelial cells (hAECs) exert potent antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects when transplanted into preclinical models of tissue fibrosis. These effects are mediated in part via the secretion of soluble factors by hAECs which modulate signaling pathways and affect cell types involved in inflammation and fibrosis. Based on these reports, we hypothesized that these soluble factors may also support liver regeneration during chronic liver injury. To test this, we characterized the effect of both hAECs and hAEC-conditioned medium (CM) on liver repair in a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced fibrosis. Liver repair was assessed by liver fibrosis, hepatocyte proliferation, and the liver progenitor cell (LPC) response. We found that the administration of hAECs or hAEC-CM reduced liver injury and fibrosis, sustained hepatocyte proliferation, and reduced LPC numbers during chronic liver injury. Additionally, we undertook in vitro studies to document both the cell–cell and paracrine-mediated effects of hAECs on LPCs by investigating the effects of co-culturing the LPCs and hAECs and hAEC-CM on LPCs. We found little change in LPCs co-cultured with hAECs. In contrast, hAEC-CM enhances LPC proliferation and differentiation. These findings suggest that paracrine factors secreted by hAECs enhance liver repair by reducing fibrosis while promoting regeneration during chronic liver injury.
Electroacupuncture pretreatment promotes angiogenesis via hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and vascular endothelial growth factor in a rat model of chronic myocardial ischemia
Authors: Fu Yimeng , Li Jia , Wu Song , Wang Hua
Published: August 2020

Objective:

Electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment appears useful in the treatment of chronic myocardial ischemia (CMI). The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of EA preconditioning on the regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) proteins in a CMI model of vascular regeneration.

Methods:

A CMI model was established by subcutaneous injection of isoprinosine hydrochloride (ISO) for 14 days in 45 Wistar rats, which had been randomly divided into a model group ( n = 15), a CMI group pretreated with sham EA for 21 days (CMI + Sham group, n = 15) and a CMI group pretreated with verum EA for 21 days (CMI + EA, n = 15) prior to modeling. An additional 15 Wistar rats received 0.9% sodium chloride via intraperitoneal injection for 14 consecutive days (control group). Serum levels of VEGF and HIF-1α were measured by ELISA, while protein expression of VEGF and HIF-1α in the area of myocardial infarction was measured by Western blotting. The area of myocardial infarction and fibrosis of the myocardial tissue in the study groups were visualized by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Masson staining, respectively.

Results:

EA pretreatment improved cardiac function by regulating left ventricular end-diastolic diameter and left ventricular end-systolic diameter, left ventricular ejection fraction and the ST segment voltage of the electrocardiogram. EA pretreatment promoted vascular regeneration by increasing serum levels of VEGF and HIF-1α and by increasing protein expression of HIF-1α and VEGF in the infarcted region of the myocardium, leading to a reduction in the area of myocardial infarction on HE staining and reduction of myocardial fibrosis on Masson staining.

Conclusion:

EA pretreatment promotes protein expression of HIF-1α and VEGF in areas of ischemic myocardium, which may represent useful biomarkers for coronary collateral establishment and offer potential targets for therapeutic angiogenesis in patients with CMI.
‘It’s Torture for the Soul’: The Harms of Image-Based Sexual Abuse
Authors: McGlynn Clare , Johnson Kelly , Rackley Erika , Henry Nicola , Gavey Nicola , Flynn Asher , Powell Anastasia
Published: August 2020

Beyond ‘scandals’ and the public testimonies of victim-survivors, surprisingly little is known about the nature and extent of the harms of ‘image-based sexual abuse’, a term that includes all non-consensual taking and/or sharing of nude or sexual images. Accordingly, this article examines the findings from the first cross-national qualitative study on this issue, drawing on interviews with 75 victim-survivors of image-based sexual abuse in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. We adopt a feminist phenomenological approach that permits more nuanced and holistic understandings of victim-survivors’ experiences, moving beyond medicalised, trauma-based accounts of harm. Our analysis develops five interconnected accounts of the harms experienced, that we have termed social rupture, constancy, existential threat, isolation and constrained liberty. Our findings shed new light on the nature and significance of the harms of image-based sexual abuse that emphasises the need for more comprehensive and effective responses to these abuses.
Thermal and mechanical properties of glass fibre reinforced polyphenylene ether/polystyrene/nylon-6 ternary blends
Authors: Hadimani Prakash , Narasimha Murthy HN , Mudbidre Rajalakshmi
Published: August 2020

This paper deals with fabrication and characterization of unique polyphenylene ether/polystyrene/nylon-6/glass composites. Compounding of ternary blends with glass fibres was performed using twin screw co-rotating extruder. Test specimens were fabricated by compression moulding and injection moulding. Effect of maleic anhydride, fibre type (chopped and long), fibre content (30 wt. % and 40 wt. %) and fabrication method (compression moulding and injection moulding) on mechanical and thermal properties was studied. Maleic anhydride negatively influenced mechanical and thermal properties. Composites with 40 wt. % chopped fibres showed superior mechanical strength and those with 30 wt. % long fibres showed superior thermal properties, tensile and flexural moduli. Injection moulded specimens exhibited superior mechanical and thermal properties. The composites were studied for moisture content, density, melt flow index, glass transition temperature, thermal degradation temperature and mechanical properties. Interfacial strength was examined using scanning electron microscopy.
Ageing and Values in the Developments of Home-Based Eldercare: Perspectives from India and Sweden
Authors: Biswas Urmi Nanda , Dellve Lotta , Bhattacharjee Anindo , Wolmesjӧ Maria
Published: August 2020

Ageing population is becoming a major concern because of its economic, political and social impact. Trusted eldercare service is an important issue for a matured nation. The paper addresses the preconditions of healthy ageing and sustainable value integrated eldercare in a developing and a developed society. In India, professional eldercare is about a decade old and is still emerging to get a foothold in the health care system. The aim is to explore understanding and values of home-based eldercare (HBEC) in India from a multiple stakeholder’s perspective and to understand the value related challenges and issues in developments with HBEC in Sweden which has a century old experience of professional and public organised eldercare. The study included 210 in-depth interviews, 105 each from India and Sweden. The in-depth interviews of various stakeholders including older individuals, their relatives, caregivers, managers and doctors. Interviews and focused group discussions were carried out across six cities in India and 10 municipalities in Sweden. The qualitative data were analysed to conceptualise the stakeholders understanding of HBEC, the values associated with care giving, perceived challenges and issues in the emerging HBEC sector in India. The findings highlight the changing values in the societies with relation to the needs and context of eldercare in both countries. These preconditions for compassion and work engagement in care giving as well as competence development in caregivers need to be strengthened in the contexts of care and in alignment with sociocultural values.
The effects of culture, attitudes and perceptions on industrial cluster policy: The case of Russia
Authors: Sosnovskikh Sergey , Cronin Bruce
Published: August 2020

Culture, attitudes and perceptions have an underappreciated effect on industrial cluster policies particularly in transition economies, where long-established local social norms are confronted with hard-pressed external imperatives. This paper examines the impact of cultural and governmental peculiarities in the Russian context on the development of special economic zones and industrial parks. Based on some stylized facts about the Russian context, in-depth interviews and surveys of the managing companies and tenants of all industrial clusters in Russia, we find cultural and governmental characteristics emerge as major influences on the effective development of industrial cluster policies. We develop an adapted industrial cluster model that accommodates these factors and suggests a policy pathway for mitigation.
Scrutinising COVIDSafe: Frameworks for evaluating digital contact tracing technologies
Authors: Lodders Adam , Paterson Jeannie Marie
Published: August 2020

Digital technologies are being used to combat the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic through a variety of methods, including monitoring compliance with quarantine and contact tracing. These uses of technology are said to promote public health outcomes but risk undermining rights to privacy. In this article we focus on the use of digital technologies for contact tracing, such as the COVIDSafe app used in Australia. We explore the kind of framework that might be used for evaluating the design, deployment and governance of such technologies to ensure they operate in a manner that is proportionate to the ends to be achieved. We conclude that, in addition to issues of privacy, any use of contact tracing technology should address important considerations of efficacy, equity and accountability.