bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular ecotoxicological effect of CuO nanoparticles stress on Bellamya aeruginosa
Authors: Peng Jinying , Ma Taowu , Wu Yang
Published: June 2020

In this research, responsive sensitivities of hepatopancreatic Na+, K+-ATPase, malondialdehyde (MDA) and heat shock protein 70 family (HSP70) in Bellamya aeruginosa to CuO nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) were investigated through sediment bioassay, potential molecular
ecotoxicological mechanism of CuO-NPs stress on Bellamya aeruginosa was explored, and feasibility of Na+, K+-ATPase, MDA and HSP70 as biomarkers for CuO-NPs contaminated sediment was evaluated. The results showed that under the stress of CuO-NPs, three molecular
biomarkers displayed significant concentration- and time-effect relationships. After exposure to contaminated sediment with different concentrations of CuO-NPs, the Na+, K+-ATPase activity initially increased and then deceased; the content of low MDA initially increased
and then deceased as well, while the content of high MDA showed a fluctuated trend. For HSP70, short exposure time (3 d) induced a sharp increase in HSP70 expression, but long exposure time had little effect on HSP70 expression. It demonstrated that the hepatopancreatic Na+, K+-ATPase
activity and MDA content showed good sensitivity to CuO-NPs stress, whereas HSP70 only responded to CuO-NPs stress within short exposure time. HSP70 may be not a suitable long-term biomarker for CuO-NPs stress.
Investigation on dynamic holographic display in liquid crystal film doped with carbon dots
Authors: Gao Hongyue , Li Suna , Liu Jicheng , Zhou Wen , Xu Fan , Dai Zehang , Cheng Xiaoxi , Fang Huilin , Ge Xiaoqian , Sun Lining
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we studied the holographic properties of liquid crystal (LC) thin film doped with carbon dots (CDs) which can be used as real-time holographic display screen. The maximum value of diffraction efficiency can reach up to 30% by using a low applied electric field 0.2 V/μm.
Holograms in the LC film can be dynamically formed and self-erased. The hologram build-up time and the hologram self-erasure time in the material is fast enough to realize video refresh rate. In addition, the forming process of hologram was studied. The holographic diffraction efficiency was
measured depending on the intensity of recording light, applied electric field, the intensity of readout light, and readout light polarization direction. Triple enhancement of the diffraction efficiency value by the modulation of voltage under the condition of low recording energy is presented.
Therefore, we develop an easy way to obtain real-time dynamic holographic red, green and blue displays with high diffraction efficiency, which allow the LC film doped with CDs to be used as a holographic 3D display screen.
Molybdenum disulfide nanomaterial sensor-based detection of breast cancer microRNA
Authors: Zhang Runling , Xia ChengJing , Zhou Xiaohe , Guo Yanni , Li Weijie
Published: June 2020

In this study, we sought to establish a rapid, simple, highly sensitive, and highly specific fluorescence sensor for the detection of breast cancer-related microRNA (miRNA) based on the novel nanomaterial known as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). MoS2, a novel nanomaterial,
was added to a fluorescently-labeled DNA probe system to construct a fluorescence sensor. Furthermore, non-complementary miRNAs, single-base mismatched miRNAs, and different concentrations of complementary miRNAs were hybridized with the fluorescently-labeled DNA probe. Then, miRNAs were detected
by measuring changes in the fluorescence signals before and after hybridization. The detection was completed within 40 min. The detection limit of complementary miRNA reached pmol/L levels while distinguishing between complementary, non-complementary, and single-base mismatched miRNAs. The
MoS2 fluorescence sensor demonstrated rapid analysis, high sensitivity, and high specificity. Additionally, this established detection method has the potential for application in the rapid detection of breast cancer-related miRNA as a promising cancer detection method.
Going to Extremes: Installing the World’s Highest Weather Stations on Mount Everest
Authors: Matthews T. , Perry L. B. , Koch I. , Aryal D. , Khadka A. , Shrestha D. , Abernathy K. , Elmore A. C. , Seimon A. , Tait A. , Elvin S. , Tuladhar S. , Baidya S. K. , Potocki M. , Birkel S. D. , Kang S. , Sherpa T. C. , Gajurel A. , Mayewski P. A.
Published: June 2020

As the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest is an iconic peak that offers an unrivalled natural platform for measuring ongoing climate change across the full elevation range of Asia’s water towers. However, Everest’s extreme environment challenges data collection, particularly on the mountain’s upper slopes, where glaciers accumulate mass and mountaineers are most exposed. Weather stations have operated on Everest before, including the world’s previous highest, but coverage has been sparse in space and time. Here we describe the installation of a network of five automatic weather stations (AWSs), including the two highest stations on Earth (8,430 and 7,945 m MSL) which greatly improves monitoring of this iconic mountain. We highlight sample applications of the new data, including an initial assessment of surface energy fluxes at Camp II (6,464 m MSL) and the South Col (7,945 m MSL), which suggest melt occurs at both sites, despite persistently below-freezing air temperatures. This analysis indicates that melt may even be possible at the 8,850 m MSL summit, and prompts a reevaluation of empirical temperature index models used to simulate glacier melt in the Himalayas that focus only on air temperature. We also provide the first evaluation of numerical weather forecasts at almost 8,000 m MSL and use of model output statistics to reduce forecast error, showcasing an important opportunity to improve climber safety on Everest. Looking forward, we emphasize the considerable potential of these freely available data for understanding weather and climate in the Himalayas and beyond, including tracking the behavior of upper-atmosphere winds, which the AWS network is uniquely positioned to monitor.
Transoral Endoscopic Vestibular Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Excision
Authors: Ryan Marisa A. , Russell Jonathon O. , Schoo Desi P. , Upchurch Patrick A. , Walsh Jonathan M.
Published: June 2020

Objective:

Thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs) are relatively common congenital midline neck masses that are treated with surgical excision. Traditionally these are removed along with any associated tract and the central portion of the hyoid bone through an anterior neck incision. Some patients with TGDCs want to avoid an external neck scar.

Methods:

We describe the details of a transoral endoscopic vestibular excision of a TGDC and the associated hyoid bone in an adolescent patient.

Results:

This novel approach was successful and there were no complications.

Conclusion:

We propose that cervical TGDCs can be safely and completely removed with this approach in appropriately selected patients while avoiding a neck scar.
Views of patient relatives and health professionals about the reasons of the patients enrolled in the community mental health center to discontinue or irregularly continue the center
Authors: Guvenc Nur Ceren , Oner Hatice
Published: June 2020

Background:

The aim of the study was to determine the views of patient relatives and health professionals about the reasons of patients enrolled in the community mental health center to discontinue or irregularly continue the center.

Methods:

This study is qualitative and phenomenological. The study group consisted of 17 patient relatives and eight health professionals according to the maximum variation sampling method. In the study, the data were collected using the personal information form in semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed with the descriptive (thematic) method in the MAXQDA 2018 package program.

Results:

In line with the research findings, themes and codes were determined based on the statements of patient relatives and health professionals. For patient relatives, the themes were determined as disease symptoms, disease effect/coping difficulties, misbeliefs-fears, problems about the center, and social and economic causes. For health professionals, the themes were determined as reasons for not coming to the community mental health center, problems related to center health professionals, level/severity of the disease and treatment compliance, socio-economic conditions and problems experienced by health professionals.

Conclusion:

It can be said that the views of patient relatives and health professionals about the discontinuity of patients to the center were similar. It was seen that the problems regarding factors such as disease severity, disease effects, knowledge and beliefs of the family, stigma, functionality and promotion of the center were effective in patient’s continuity to the center. In line with the research findings, it was recommended to improve the quality of the activities in the center to increase the number of patients enrolled in the community mental health center and their continuity, develop training programs that also involve health professionals to increase the quality of service, and increase the cooperation with patient relatives.
Depression, anxiety, and stress and socio-demographic correlates among general Indian public during COVID-19
Authors: Verma Shankey , Mishra Aditi
Published: June 2020

Background:

The severe outbreak of COVID-19 has affected the mental health of Indians.

Aim:

The objective of this article was to find the prevalence rates of depression, anxiety and stress and their socio-demographic correlates among Indian population during the lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an electronic questionnaire. A total of 354 participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Depression, anxiety and stress were measured using Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), a 21-item self-reported questionnaire.

Results:

In total, 25%, 28% and 11.6% of the participants were moderate to extremely severely depressed, anxious and stressed, respectively. Binary logistic regressions indicated employment status (odds ratio (OR) = 1.91; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.072–3.418) and binge drinking (OR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.045–3.945) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms; gender (OR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.317–3.589), employment status (OR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.002–3.141) and binge drinking (OR = 2.62; 95% CI: 1.361–5.048) were significantly associated with anxiety symptoms; and binge drinking (OR = 3.42; 95% CI: 1.544–7.583) was significantly associated with stress symptoms.

Conclusion:

Depression, anxiety and stress among Indian population during the lockdown were prevalent. Along with other measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, mental health of citizens needs the urgent attention of the Indian government and mental health experts. Further large-scale studies should be conducted on different professions and communities such as health care professionals and migrant workers and incorporate other mental health indicators.
‘Out With the Bases of Death’: Civil Society and Peace Mobilization in Greece During the 1980s
Authors: Karamouzi Eirini
Published: June 2020

The peace mobilisation against the Euromissiles in the early 1980s constituted one of the biggest mass movements in contemporary European history. The article aims to examine the completely neglected, albeit impressive peace movement in Greece of the 1980s. What mobilised these activists? How did they frame the notion of peace? What were the political conditions under which the discourse of peace became powerful? What was the role of the state and political parties? How did they protest? The article will use national and local press, transnational and Greek peace campaign material, semistructured interviews and polls to provide rich and unique evidence on the way protesters mobilised in recently democratised Greece. Recent accounts of peace mobilisation have emphasized its pan-European character. While acknowledging the merit of transnational approaches, the archival based project, informed by new social movements theory, aims to contextualise cycles of protest mobilisation and highlight the role of national identity that transcended Cold War narratives.
Authentic Empathy: A Cultural Basis for the Development of Empathy in Children
Authors: Woolrych Tracey , Eady Michelle J. , Green Corinne A.
Published: June 2020

Culture is important for the development of social skills in children, including empathy. Although empathy has long been linked with prosocial behaviors and attitudes, there is little research that links culture with development of empathy in children. This project sought to investigate and identify specific culturally related empathy elements in a sample of Dene and Inuit children from Northern Canada. Across seven different grade (primary) schools, 92 children aged 7 to 9 years participated in the study. Children’s drawings, and interviews about those pictures, were uniquely employed as empirical data which allowed researchers to gain access to the children’s perspective about what aspects of culture were important to them. Using empathy as the theoretical framework, a thematic analysis was conducted in a top-down deductive approach. The research paradigm elicited a rich data set revealing three major themes: sharing; knowledge of self and others; and acceptance of differences. The identified themes were found to have strong links with empathy constructs such as sharing, helping, perspective-taking, and self–other knowledges, revealing the important role that culture may play in the development of empathy. Findings from this study can help researchers explore and identify specific cultural elements that may contribute to the development of empathy in children.
The Role of Political Attention in Moderating the Association between Political Identities and Anthropogenic Climate Change Belief in Britain
Authors: Kenny John
Published: June 2020

US research shows that the partisan divide among elites on climate change has been mirrored by division at the citizen level, with this division being especially prominent among more politically engaged citizens. Using British Election Study data from 2016, this article examines whether a similar phenomenon is occurring in Britain, a country that experienced an increase in climate sceptic media coverage in the aftermath of the passing of the 2008 Climate Change Act. The results show that UK Independence Party and Conservative Party partisans as well as Leavers who pay more attention to politics are less likely to believe in the existence of anthropogenic climate change in contrast to Labour Party partisans and Remainers where increased political attention is associated with greater belief. These findings point to the inherent difficulties of bringing public beliefs on climate change in line with the scientific consensus in the presence of divided elite cues.
Impact of an automated road debris removal system on traffic flow using VISSIM
Authors: Yang Choong Heon , Kim Hoe Kyoung , Kim Jin Guk , Kim Soullam
Published: June 2020

This study introduces a state-of-the-art road debris removal system (i.e., automated road debris removal system (ROBOS)) and analyzes its impact on traffic flow using the microscopic simulation model, VISSIM. Robust simulation scenarios were established, and the major parameters of individual scenarios were also included based on extensive interviews with road workers. The performances of road workers and the ROBOS in regard to road debris removal were investigated in terms of four measures of effectiveness. These included queue, density, percentage delay, and number of vehicle stops. To mimic the major arterial roadways in South Korea, two-lane, three-lane, and four-lane roads were considered for implementing the road debris removal process. The simulation results as well as the statistical analysis revealed that the ROBOS outperforms the direct removal by road workers in all aspects. Thus, the ROBOS can remove the debris more safely and efficiently. The findings of this research can improve institutional operational guidelines for the ROBOS by providing an appropriate range for its parameters. This can result in enhancing traffic safety and efficiency. Notwithstanding the simulation results, the more unexpected cases, such as the driver carelessness during removal work, should be reflected in future research to thoroughly prevent the potential risk of accidents as well as maintaining smooth traffic flow.
Development of a superhydrophobic cellulose fabric via enzyme treatment and surface hydrophobization
Authors: Rahman Md Ashikur , Yun Changsang , Park Chung Hee
Published: June 2020

Enzymatic hydrolysis is a common finishing method for cellulosic materials, to improve fabric softness, appearance, and surface properties. However, its potential to trigger superhydrophobicity has not been studied in depth. In this study, a superhydrophobic cellulose fabric was fabricated in two steps. Micro-/nano-hierarchical roughness on the fabric surface was achieved by cellulase from Aspergillus niger, through enzymatic hydrolysis. Subsequently, hydrophobization was carried out by a dip coating method, using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Enzyme concentration and treatment temperature were varied to find the values that provided the greatest superhydrophobicity. As enzyme concentration and temperature increased, the nano-scale roughness increased, along with weight reduction. The degree of crystallinity and reduction in tensile strength were also increased with weight loss via enzyme hydrolysis. As air pockets were formed by micro-/nano-structures on the fiber surface, the water contact angle increased and the shedding angle tended to decrease. The sample treated with 5 g/l enzyme at 60 ℃ for 60 min and coated with PDMS 1 wt.% coating solution had the greatest superhydrophobicity, with a water contact angle of 162° and a shedding angle of 7.0°. The weight loss and reduction in tensile strength of the developed superhydrophobic fabrics were 2.9% and 39.0%, respectively. This approach reduces the necessity for an additional process to introduce nano-scale roughness, and it has the potential to produce superhydrophobic cellulosic biomass for outdoor clothing.
Awareness of personal height and weight among community-dwelling people in West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Saito Takashi , Bai Angelberth , Matsui Nobuko , Izawa Kazuhiro P
Published: June 2020

We investigated the accessibility of height- and weight-measurement tools and the awareness of one's own height and weight in a specific population in West New Britain Province (WNBP), Papua New Guinea, where obesity is prevalent. Of 558 participants (mean age 34.8 ± 14.0 years, 48.2% women, average body mass index =25.1 ± 4.83 kg/m2), >70% had limited access to measurement scales and 97.5% lacked accurate knowledge of their own height and weight. Our findings imply that increased access to measurement tools and awareness of personal height and weight is necessary to improve the feasibility and effectiveness of weight-management interventions in areas such as WNBP.
Joy flows through the city
Authors: Glenn Mary , Tiersma Watson Jude
Published: June 2020

People may see the pain, suffering, and injustices in the built environment before thinking of joy in the city. There are many ways of responding to the challenges facing global cities including creating rhythms and spaces of joy, identifying sources of joy, practicing kinship and mutuality as well as sharing and building joy. The gospel at its core is a revelation of the joy of Christ, a joy that is present in cities, in our cities. This article relates stories and explores scriptural themes such as shalom seeking (Jeremiah 29) that weave joy into the fabric of urban life. Joy flows like water through our lives and cities.
Teaching Race and Ethnicity in the Age of Trump: Using Popular Culture in a Polarized Classroom
Authors: Stout Vanessa , Earnhart Eric , Nagi Mariam
Published: June 2020

Teaching race and ethnicity in various sociology courses, we found students in our classes can be very reluctant to approach the subject of race, discrimination, and racism. Moreover, during class discussion, they often have a hard time defining and analyzing these concepts. In this study, we examine how popular culture can be a useful tool to teach difficult subjects, such as race and ethnicity. Instead of a traditional lecture, we had students watch the popular Cartoon Network series Teen Titans. Using the characters’ interactions from this series as examples, students constructed definitions of racism and discrimination. The result of this study demonstrates that students may be more comfortable recognizing and discussing fictional characters’ racist or discriminatory behavior as a way of entering the conversation. After discussing fictional examples, students effectively link events from the cartoon to the subsequent lecture about race and racism.
The Importance of Trending Topics in the Gatekeeping of Social Media News Engagement: A Natural Experiment on Weibo
Authors: Yang Tian , Peng Yilang
Published: June 2020

Digital gatekeepers have greatly shaped the gatekeeping process of news consumption and news engagement, but how digital gatekeepers work is understudied. This study focuses on one example of digital gatekeepers, trending topics on social media, which aggregate the most popular search terms and present them to the public. We utilize a natural experiment on Weibo by analyzing user engagement data of 36,239 posts in three consecutive weeks, during which trending topics were removed for 1 week. We show that trending topics implemented two layers of gatekeeping: trending topics increased user engagement with top news posts within each news outlet and widened the engagement gap between popular posts and less popular ones (intra-outlet gatekeeping), and the increases in engagement with top news items were most salient among the least popular news outlets, thus reducing the inequality among outlets (inter-outlet gatekeeping).
Renewed Interest in the Blind: (A Review of Best's “The Blind)
Authors: Uhler John E.
Published: June 2020

Mr. Uhler entered work for the blind over a year ago, being called into the field at the time the Evergreen Staff was being organized. He is head of the Academic Department, at the Red Cross Institute for the Blind, his chief work being concerned with the Business English Courses. Mr. Uhler received his degree of Bachelor of Arts from The Johns Hopkins University. For some time he was head of the Department of English, at Ogden College, Kentucky, and later became an instructor of English composition and Public Speaking at The Johns Hopkins University. Mr. Uhler has also had considerable experience in the newspaper world. He studied for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Princeton University and at Johns Hopkins, postponing it both on account of the war and entrance into work for the blind.
Education of Blind and Visually Impaired Children of North America and the Caribbean
Authors: Orlansky M.D.
Published: June 2020

This report offers a brief overview of recent population figures, types of educational programs, and selected topics of present interest and relevance to educators of blind and visually impaired students in the U.S.A., Canada, and the Caribbean. While not intended to be comprehensive or statistically exacting, it is hoped that this discussion will be useful in informing our colleagues in other areas of the world about some of the current concerns of professionals in the North America-Caribbean region.
The Current System of Education for Visually Impaired Children in the USSR and Plans for Improvement
Authors: Feoktistova V.A.
Published: June 2020

The author reviews both the history of the blindness field in the Soviet Union and current trends and programs with emphasis on the development of educational programs for blind and visually impaired children. Psychosocial and employment issues are also addressed.
Education of the Blind Population of Taiwan ROC and the Effects of International Agencies
Authors: Mao L. , Tsung W.
Published: June 2020

The authors examine the impact of several agencies’ services, both domestic and international, for education of blind and visually impaired people in Taiwan. Findings show that although educational services and programs are available, those trained often find appropriate-level jobs scarce.
Influences on Nigeria's Educational System for Blind People
Authors: Ozoji E.D.
Published: June 2020

The literature on the development of education in Nigeria has emphasized the contributions of voluntary agencies. This article discusses two other equally important influences: the traditional community and the government. When the structural elements of these three influences are put together, the result is an impartial framework for evaluating the development of education for blind people in Nigeria.
Psychological and Educational Services for Blind Children in the Home Environment
Authors: Echegaray L.
Published: June 2020

This paper present preliminary results of psychopedagogical services offered to blind children in the home environments. The author studied a sample of 22 families that had totally blind or visually handicapped children, between the ages of three and fourteen years. A group of education and psychology students, as part of their professional field practice performed the home services which included: psychological counseling, daily life activities, braille communication, and recreational activities.
Competencies and a Bibliography Addressing Students’ Use of Low Vision Devices
Authors: Watson G.
Published: June 2020

The increasing demand for the use of low vision devices by school-aged students has left special educators with a need to develop competency-based teaching approaches. In addition, these educators may lack a thorough background of knowledge about visual development, visual skills, and a theoretical framework of low vision. What follows are competencies for students and a bibliography for special educators.
Literacy: The Key to Opportunity
Authors: Schroeder F.
Published: June 2020

This article discusses braille as a means to literacy for blind persons from the perspective of the National Federation of the Blind. The problem of decreased braille literacy is tied to negative attitudes about blindness and inadequate training of teachers and rehabilitation professionals. A case study of a low vision child whose parents have engaged in a long and bitter struggle to obtain braille instruction is also presented. The case is examined with regard to how educational planning is conducted as well as the effects of attitudes concerning blindness. It is argued that if braille is viewed by professionals as truly competitive, then there should be no reluctance to teach braille to children for whom print reading is no longer efficient. “Braille bills,” which would give parents of legally blind children an absolute right to obtain braille instruction for their children, are addressed. The article concludes that the technical problem of imprecise criteria by which to evaluate which children should read print and which children should read braille is fundamentally tied to beliefs about blindness. As professionals develop true beliefs in the competence of blind people and the efficacy of braille, educational planning will then stress braille, resulting in a resurgence of literacy for the blind population.
Coalition for Information Access for Print Handicapped Readers (CIAPHR)
Authors: Huebner K.M. , Kelly J. , Davis B.
Published: June 2020

The American Foundation for the Blind's Task Force on Networking investigated the lack of a centralized source of information for locating books in special formats for blind and visually impaired persons. The Coalition for Information Access for Print Handicapped Readers (CIAPHR) was formed by leading agencies to develop and implement a central listing system and to act as a conduit for networking.
Toxoplasmosis in Blind and Partially Sighted Children and Adolescents
Authors: Langset M. , Midtvedt T. , Omland T.
Published: June 2020

Infection caused by the protozoan organism Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide problem. We have shown that in Norway this infection is especially common in blind and partially sighted children. When a group of infected and another group of noninfected children were given WISC and WAIS verbal subtests, the infected group showed lower performance than the noninfected. Retesting after five years showed a progressive intellectual impairment in subjects with a congenital sight deficiency and infection with Toxoplasma gondii. The need for a closer follow-up in congenitally blind or partially sighted children is underlined.
How Much Extra Time Do Visually Impaired People Need to Take Examinations: The Case of the SAT
Authors: Packer J.
Published: June 2020

This study examined the amount of time used by blind and visually impaired examinees to take special administrations of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), in comparison to those with other types of disabilities. Results showed that visually impaired individuals using cassette or braille versions of the SAT used considerably more time, on average, than both those with visual impairments who used regular or large print versions of the test and those with other types of disabilities. On average, visually impaired examinees taking braille or cassette versions of the test use more than twice the time given non-disabled people to complete the exam; those using large or regular type use a little less than double time.
An Evaluation of the Legibility and Meaningfulness of Potential Map Symbols
Authors: Lambert L.M. , Lederman S.J.
Published: June 2020

The legibility and meaningfulness of a series of point and linear symbols were evaluated for potential use on tactual maps representing building interiors. The representations included symbols developed by other researchers as well as a number designed specifically for this study. A subset of “optimally sized” symbols, including the different representations of women's washroom, men's washroom, telephone, and stop/danger sign, were tested for legibility, and the meaningfulness of this subset of symbols was then evaluated. Blind observers were used. The findings are discussed in terms of which symbols would best represent the four environmental features.
The Use of a Recorded Message for Gaining Assistance with Street Crossings for Deaf–Blind Travelers
Authors: Florence I J. , LaGrow S.J.
Published: June 2020

A printed card requesting help in crossing streets was compared to a continuous loop tape recording carrying the same message to determine which would be the more efficient way for a deaf-blind traveler to obtain assistance from other pedestrians. Significantly more assistance was obtained when the tape-recorded message was used.
Model Cooperative Efforts between the Public and Private Agency
Authors: Hopf A. Gidget
Published: June 2020

In New York State, an effective and cooperative relationship exists between the Council of Agency Administrators— comprising 17 not-for-profit agencies—and the Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped. This paper examines the role of each organization and hopes for future collaborative plans, including calls from the agencies for a combined state Office of Rehabilitation Services.
Male Strippers and the Toll of Exotic Dance
Authors: T. Scull Maren
Published: June 2020

While researchers have looked at the impact stripping has for female exotic dancers, very little attention has been given to the consequences the profession has for male strippers. In this research, I draw from 22 in-depth interviews with male exotic dancers and 18 months of fieldwork at a strip club to examine the extent to which male strippers experience “the toll” of exotic dance. Specifically, I focus on dancers’ interactions with customers, their experiences with stigmas, the impact stripping has on their romantic relationships, how they negotiate boundaries with patrons, and the consequences stripping has for their self-esteem. Overall, I found that patriarchal privilege and the sexual double standard significantly mitigated the toll of the profession.
Is the Helmholtz–Kohlrausch Effect More Robust in Women?
Authors: Foutch Brian K. , Bassi Carl J.
Published: June 2020

For gray or achromatic objects, brightness is a relatively simple transformation where very low luminance levels are perceived as black and higher levels are perceived as white. For chromatic objects, the transformation is more complex, depending on color purity as well. This influence of color purity on a color’s perceived brightness is a well-established phenomenon known as the Helmholtz–Kohlrausch (H-K) effect. We investigated gender differences in the H-K effect by measuring brightness (via direct brightness matching [DBM]) and luminance (via heterochromatic flicker photometry [HFP]) at five wavelengths (450, 520, 560, 580, and 650 nm) perceived as blue, green, green-yellow, yellow, and red hues. We compared DBM/HFP ratios between 13 males and 18 females. Based on previous evidence of a female advantage in chromatic processes, we hypothesized that DBM/HFP ratios would be higher in female subjects. While HFP measures were essentially the same between male and female subjects, DBM measures and DBM/HFP ratios were significantly higher for female subjects than males. There were no significant effects of contraceptive use based on a post hoc comparison. We also derived simple models of brightness as a function of luminance and saturation, which further suggest gender dimorphism in the H-K effect.
The effects of music induction on mood and affect in an Asian context
Authors: Campbell Elizabeth Ann , Berezina Elizaveta , Gill C M Hew D
Published: June 2020

A sample of Asian participants was assessed using the Brunel Mood Scale and the Positive & Negative Affect Scale before and after music mood induction procedures to which each participant was randomly assigned. A series of mixed analyses of variance with the type of music (happy/positive vs. sad/negative) as the between-subject factor and pre–post music exposure as the within-subject factor revealed that the sad music induction attenuated the positive moods Vigor and Happiness, as well as the negative moods Anger, Tension, Fatigue, and Confusion but had no significant impact on Depression or Calmness, casting doubt on the robustness of Thayer’s circumplex model of mood formation. The happy music induction increased Vigor and decreased Fatigue and Confusion, suggesting that positive music has the potential to lift energy levels. The happy music induction led to increases in Positive Affect only, whereas the sad music condition attenuated both Positive Affect and Negative affect, casting doubt on Watson and Tellegen’s contention that the Affect systems are independent and suggesting that the bipolarity hypothesis may not provide a comprehensive explanation of mood formation. The mechanisms by which music may impact mood and potential differences in the expression of affect between Asian and Western participants are discussed.
Theory into practice:: Challenges and implications for information literacy teaching
Authors: Schachter Deborah
Published: June 2020

This article is informed by a mixed-methods research study into librarians’ critical information literacy awareness and teaching practices in higher education institutions within British Columbia, Canada, and the literature related to critical pedagogical and literacy theory. I explore the perceived gap in librarian knowledge of theories that underpin their pedagogy, the value of learning about and applying theories to information literacy teaching, and strategies that can enable improved awareness and application of theory to librarians’ practices in higher education.
Estimating Light-Duty Vehicle Emission Factors using Random Forest Regression Model with Pavement Roughness
Authors: Qiao Fengxiang , Nabi Mahreen , Li Qing , Yu Lei
Published: June 2020

Pavement roughness would affect the running of vehicle movement, and thus possibly impact fuel consumption and vehicle emissions, the numerical relationships and analytical steps of which are, however, not yet well studied. The major objective of this paper is to quantify vehicular emission factors—hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and carbon dioxide (CO2)—and fuel consumption as a function of pavement roughness (the International Roughness Index [IRI]) and other factors. Within each operating mode identification (OMID) bins of vehicle operational status, a random forest regression model (RFRM) was identified to estimate emission factors and fuel consumption. The field test data, with a total length of 1,067.41 mi driving and 323,075 data pairs from one test vehicle, were used to train and validate models. The portable emissions measurement system (PEMS) and a smartphone application for IRI were employed for the tests in Texas, U.S., roadways. Results show that the optimum roughness conditions for lower emissions and fuel consumption are in categories B and C with moderate roughness. The root-mean-square error (RMSE) during training, testing, and validation processes of the RFRM are within 6.4%, implying a good fit of resulted models. IRI has the most OMID bins as number one predictor, followed by vehicle specific power (VSP) and speed. Through separated modeling for each OMID, the impacts of IRI are successfully grasped. It is recommended conducting more field measurements with more vehicle types. This would help with possible incorporation of vehicle emissions, fuel consumption, and other environmental factors into the pavement design, maintenance, and retrofitting process.
Economic development and human ties in informal food waste recycling: A follow-up study in Da Nang, Vietnam
Authors: Kato Takaaki , Hoang Hai , Phan Hoang Thu Thao
Published: June 2020

This study examined the effects of economic development on the commercialised and non-commercialised segments of informal food waste recycling in Da Nang City, Vietnam. Food waste was collected from the urban centre and used as pig feed in swine farms in suburban areas. The commercialised and non-commercialised segments of this system have evolved differently over time. During our observation period of 2011–2016, swine farmers became concerned about economic efficiency, which affected the manner in which they used food waste. By 2016, more farmers had begun to use food waste brokers instead of collecting food waste themselves so that they could concentrate on rearing pigs. The price of food waste remained low, reflecting the farmers’ need for low-cost feeding. This resulted in the closure of commercialised transactions between households and waste collectors amid increased household income. Instead, non-commercialised transactions supported by human ties became the main mode of household participation in food waste recycling . Our findings can guide the use of different elements in this informal recycling system within the framework of a formalised recycling system implemented by the government.
Tumefactive Demyelinating Lesions in Children: A Rare Case of Conus Medullaris Involvement and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Pérez Carlos A. , Patnaik Anish , Oommen Sherwin , Redko Alissa , Mathis Scott B.
Published: June 2020

Tumefactive demyelinating lesions are an uncommon manifestation of demyelinating disease that mimic primary central nervous system neoplasms and can pose a diagnostic challenge in patients without a pre-existing diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Although a biopsy may be required to distinguish TDL from neoplasms or infection, certain ancillary and radiographic findings may preclude the need for invasive diagnostic procedures. We describe the case of a 15-year-old boy with a tumefactive demyelinating lesion involving the conus medullaris. An exhaustive systematic literature search of pediatric cases of TDL yielded an additional 78 cases. This review summarizes the current knowledge and recommendations for the diagnosis and management of this condition, highlighting the clinical, demographic, and radiologic features of 79 reported cases, including our own. Furthermore, it underscores areas of the literature where evidence is still lacking. Further research is needed to optimize clinical detection and medical management of this condition.
Macroscopic and histologic evaluation of cartilage regeneration treated using xenogenic biodegradable porous sponge cartilage scaffold composite supplemented with allogenic adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) and secretome: An in vivo experimental study
Authors: Widhiyanto Lukas , Utomo Dwikora Novembri , Perbowo Adrianto Prasetyo , Hernugrahanto Kukuh Dwiputra ,   Purwati
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Articular cartilage is an avascular, alymphatic, and anisotropic tissue, these characteristics cause significant healing problems to injuries to the cartilage tissue. To overcome this problem, various techniques have been developed and widely used, but the cost-effectiveness and resulting tissue regeneration have never achieved hyaline-like cartilage that has the best biomechanical properties. The idea of this experiment is to use a Biodegradable Porous Sponge Cartilage (BPSC) Scaffold to enhance the regeneration of hyaline-like cartilage combined with microfracture technique and Adipose Derived Stem Cells (ASCs) or secretome on an animal model.

Methods

A model defect was made on the femoral trochlea of a New Zealand white rabbit. Four groups were made to compare different treatment methods for osteochondral defects. The groups were: (1) Control group; (2) Scaffold Group; (3) Scaffold + ASCs Group; (4) Scaffold + Secretome Group. After 12 weeks, we terminate the animal models, then a macroscopic evaluation using the International Cartilage Research Society (ICRS) scoring system and Oswestry Arthroscopy Score (OAS) was done, followed by sectioning the specimen for microscopic evaluation using the O’Driscoll scoring system.

Results

The mean score for all treatment group were better compared to the control group grossly and histologically. The best mean score for macroscopic and microscopic evaluation was the group given Scaffold + ASCs.

Conclusion

The application of BPSC scaffold enhances cartilage regeneration in larger osteochondral defects. Furthermore, the addition of ASCs or secretome along with the scaffold implantation further enhances the cartilage regeneration, in which ASCs shows better results.
The Police Role in Domestic Homicide Prevention: Lessons From a Domestic Violence Death Review Committee
Authors: Saxton Michael D. , Jaffe Peter G. , Olszowy Laura
Published: June 2020

This study examined the role of police in domestic homicide cases reviewed by a multidisciplinary death review committee in Ontario, Canada. Examining the 219 domestic homicide case summaries, this study explored the difference between homicides with, and without, prior police contact. Results indicated that police contacted cases had 63% more risk factors present compared with cases without prior police contact, with 80% of police-involved cases having 10 or more risk factors. Police cases had unique risk factors present including a failure to comply with authority, access to victims after risk assessments, prior threats to kill victims (including with a weapon), history of domestic violence (DV), extreme minimization of DV, addiction concerns, and an escalation of violence. Cases involving child homicide have unique child-specific risk factors such as custody disputes, threats to children, and abuse during pregnancy. Overall, there was a lack of formal risk assessments conducted. Implications are discussed in terms of police intervention being a critical opportunity for risk assessment, safety planning, and risk management. Although there is no certainty in predicting that lives would have been saved, the level of risk presented calls for enhanced efforts at assessment and intervention for adult victims and their children.
Digi-Housekeeping: The Invisible Work of Flexibility
Authors: Whiting Rebecca , Symon Gillian
Published: June 2020

From an analysis of everyday practices of flexible working captured in video diaries, a form of pervasive but invisible support work is identified and presented. Labelled ‘digi-housekeeping’, this is work that is required to maintain the digital tools that enable flexible working, and incorporates the tasks of clearing, sorting, preparing, provisioning and troubleshooting. Through the sociocultural processes of responsibilization, personalization and work extension, interpreted here as emblematic of wider neoliberal contemporary work arrangements, digi-housekeeping is devalued and made invisible, characterizing these tasks as not ‘real’ work. Classifying these tasks as not ‘real’ work is a new kind of boundary work that supports the continuing displacement of work activities onto individual workers. It is argued that such tasks need to be made visible in order to address feelings of work intensification.
The politics of senior bureaucratic turnover in the Westminster tradition: Trust and the choice between internal and external appointments
Authors: Cooper Christopher A , Marier Patrik , Halawi Ali
Published: June 2020

The extent to which new governments appoint and dismiss senior public servants is widely claimed to be influenced by their country’s underlying administrative tradition. This is particularly the case within the Westminster tradition where such turnover is limited in nature, with most appointees coming from within the ranks of the public service. This article challenges the assertion that turnover in the Westminster tradition is homogeneously internal. Theorizing that new governments appoint senior public servants to increase their control over the bureaucracy, and that the desire for control is negatively correlated to trust, this article develops hypotheses between the trust new governments harbour towards the bureaucracy and whether they appoint and dismiss bureaucrats from within or outside the public service. The hypotheses are tested with longitudinal data measuring internal and external appointments and departures to the senior public service in Canada’s provincial governments over a period of 18 years. The results from various multinomial regression models suggest that political appointments to the public service are not as homogenous as frequently suggested. Although a transition in the governing party and a newly elected premier from the same party of the previous government both lead to an increase in bureaucratic turnover, a newly elected first minister has a greater incidence of internal turnover than a change in party, meanwhile the level of external turnover does not meaningfully differ between these two political events.
Thinking in multitudes: Questionnaires and composite cases in early American psychology
Authors: Young Jacy L.
Published: June 2020

In the late 19th century, the questionnaire was one means of taking the case study into the multitudes. This article engages with Forrester’s idea of thinking in cases as a means of interrogating questionnaire-based research in early American psychology. Questionnaire research was explicitly framed by psychologists as a practice involving both natural historical and statistical forms of scientific reasoning. At the same time, questionnaire projects failed to successfully enact the latter aspiration in terms of synthesizing masses of collected data into a coherent whole. Difficulties in managing the scores of descriptive information questionnaires generated ensured the continuing presence of individuals in the results of this research, as the individual case was excerpted and discussed alongside a cast of others. As a consequence, questionnaire research embodied an amalgam of case, natural historical, and statistical thinking. Ultimately, large-scale data collection undertaken with questionnaires failed in its aim to construct composite exemplars or ‘types’ of particular kinds of individuals; to produce the singular from the multitudes.