bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Riemann–Hilbert approach for a Schrödinger-type equation with nonzero boundary conditions
Authors: Zhang Bo , Fan Engui
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we focus on investigating a nonlinear Schrödinger-type equation with nonzero boundary at infinity. An appropriate two-sheeted Riemann surface is introduced to map the original spectral parameter [Formula: see text] into a single-valued parameter [Formula: see text]. Starting from the Lax pair of the Schrödinger-type equation, we derive its Jost solutions with nonzero boundary conditions, and further analyze the asymptotic behaviors, analyticity, the symmetries of the Jost solutions and the corresponding spectral matrix. An associated matrix Riemann–Hilbert (RH) problem associated with the problem of nonzero boundary conditions is subsequently presented, and a formulae of [Formula: see text]-soliton solutions for the Schrödinger-type equation by solving the matrix RH problem. As an application of the [Formula: see text]-soliton formulae, we present two kinds of one-soliton solutions and three kinds of two-soliton solutions according to different distributions of spectral parameters, and dynamical features of those solutions are also further analyzed.
Coding Boot Camps
Authors: Lyon Louise Ann , Green Emily
Published: February 2021

College-educated women in the workforce are discovering a latent interest in and aptitude for computing motivated by the prevalence of computing as an integral part of jobs in many fields as well as continued headlines about the number of unfilled, highly paid computing jobs. One of these women's choices for retraining are the so-called coding boot camps that teach programming skills through intensive multi-week courses. This article reports on a qualitative research study focused on the Silicon Valley area of California. We used social cognitive career theory (SCCT) to investigate the larger context surrounding women entering computing professions through boot camp learning sites, including: the
environment
of a booming technology workforce, boot camps as
learning settings
, the
characteristics
of women who attend boot camps, how retraining at a coding boot camp influence women's computing
self-efficacy
and
outcome expectations
, and the
performance attainments
of women at boot camps. Interview data was collected from 14 women who had attended boot camps—first before graduating from the boot camp and again after six months in the workforce. To contextualize the computing ecosystem, we conducted single interviews with 6 boot camp organizers/curriculum developers, 7 industry hiring managers, and 14 university computer science faculty. To provide a contrast with women at boot camps, we interviewed 5 women who majored in computer science at the university and with 17 men who had attended boot camps. Structural data coding and analysis was done focused on the SCCT mechanisms of environment, person inputs, learning experiences, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and performance attainments. Findings here demonstrate that training at a boot camp can be the catalyst for college-educated women to attain computing jobs and careers, although these entry-level jobs may be a compromise to the goal of a software development job and are unlikely to lead to a job at large, well-known, established technology companies.
The Backlash Against Globalization
Authors: Walter Stefanie
Published: February 2021

In recent years, the world has seen a rising backlash against globalization. This article reviews the nature, causes, and consequences of the globalization backlash. It shows that, contrary to a popular narrative, the backlash is not associated with a large swing in public opinion against globalization but is rather a result of its politicization. The increasing influence of globalization-skeptic actors has resulted in more protectionist, isolationist, and nationalist policies, some of which fundamentally threaten pillars of the contemporary international order. Both material and nonmaterial causes drive the globalization backlash, and these causes interact and mediate each other. The consequences are shaped by the responses of societal actors, national governments, and international policy makers. These responses can either yield to and reinforce the global backlash or push back against it. Understanding these dynamics will be an important task for future research.
Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and exercise intolerance in obese heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Samuel T. Jake , Kitzman Dalane W. , Haykowsky Mark J. , Upadhya Bharathi , Brubaker Peter , Nelson M. Benjamin , Hundley W.Gregory , Nelson Michael D.
Published: February 2021

Using a multimodal imaging approach to uncouple tissue deformation from atrial pressure, we found that left ventricular (LV) relaxation is impaired in older obese patients with HFpEF, but only modestly correlates with their severely reduced peak V̇o2. In contrast, the data show a much stronger relationship between elevated LV filling pressures and exercise intolerance, refocusing future therapeutic priorities.
Bone Marrow‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Differentially Affect Glioblastoma Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion: A 2D‐DIGE Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Li Shenjie , Xiang Wei , Tian Junjie , Wang Haorun , Hu Shuiwang , Wang Ke , Chen Ligang , Huang Changren , Zhou Jie
Published: February 2021

Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM‐MSCs) display high tumor tropism and cause indirect effects through the cytokines they secrete. However, the effects of BM‐MSCs on the biological behaviors of glioblastoma multiforme remain unclear. In this study, the conditioned medium from BM‐MSCs significantly inhibited the proliferation of C6 cells (P < 0.05) but promoted their migration and invasion (P < 0.05). Two‐dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2D‐DIGE) proteomic analysis revealed 17 proteins differentially expressed in C6 cells exposed to the BM‐MSC‐conditioned medium including five upregulated proteins and 12 downregulated proteins. Among these, six differentially expressed proteins (Calr, Set, Oat, Npm1, Ddah1, and Tardbp) were closely related to cell proliferation and differentiation, and nine proteins (Pdia6, Sphk1, Anxa4, Vim, Tuba1c, Actr1b, Actn4, Rap2c, and Tpm2) were associated with motility and the cytoskeleton, which may modulate the invasion and migration of tumor cells. Above all, by identifying the differentially expressed proteins using proteomics and bioinformatics analysis, BM‐MSCs could be genetically modified to specifically express tumor‐suppressive factors when BM‐MSCs are to be used as tumor‐selective targeting carriers in the future.
Recent Advances in Predicting Protein S‐Nitrosylation Sites
Authors: Zhao Qian , Ma Jiaqi , Xie Fang , Wang Yu , Zhang Yu , Li Hui , Sun Yuan , Wang Liqi , Guo Mian , Han Ke
Published: February 2021

Protein S‐nitrosylation (SNO) is a process of covalent modification of nitric oxide (NO) and its derivatives and cysteine residues. SNO plays an essential role in reversible posttranslational modifications of proteins. The accurate prediction of SNO sites is crucial in revealing a certain biological mechanism of NO regulation and related drug development. Identification of the sites of SNO in proteins is currently a very hot topic. In this review, we briefly summarize recent advances in computationally identifying SNO sites. The challenges and future perspectives for identifying SNO sites are also discussed. We anticipate that this review will provide insights into research on SNO site prediction.
Study on Optimization of Geothermal Tail Water Reinjection Process in Moderately Deep Sandstone
Authors: Li Hongyan , Wang Pengtao , Liu Bin , Zhang Xianyu , Guo Shiyan , Xiao Hui , Huang Hai
Published: February 2021

The existing test methods of geothermal tail water reinjection effect in sandstone geothermal reservoirs are not suitable for moderately deep and deep sandstone geothermal reservoirs, resulting in the poor filtration performance of fine-grained reservoirs. Therefore, a test method for the geothermal tail water reinjection effect in a moderately deep sandstone geothermal reservoir is proposed. This paper studies the static compatibility of raw water and geothermal tail water under different mixing ratios, determines the indexes affecting the reinjection effect of moderately deep sandstone geothermal reservoir tail water, analyzes the weight set of each influencing factor, and formulates a test standard for the reinjection effect of geothermal reservoir tail water. Finally, a tracer is selected to trace the reinjected tail water in the geothermal reservoir, and the tracer is used to obtain the result of each previously determined index. Eventually, the final reinjection effect of the geothermal tail water is obtained. The experimental results show that the fine-grade filtration performance, silt-grade filtration performance, and coarse-grade filtration performance of this method are improved compared with those of other methods; thus, the particle filtration performance is better, and the reinjection effect of geothermal reservoir tail water is better, which has a great significance for the geothermal resource exploitation of moderately deep sandstone.
Improvement of Stop‐Hole Method on Fatigue‐Cracked Steel Plates by Using High‐Strength Bolts and CFRP Strips
Authors: Jiang Xu , Lv Zhilin , Qiang Xuhong , Zhang Jiandong
Published: February 2021

Steel bridges are extremely damaged by fatigue subjected to cycling load. Therefore, it is often necessary to put forward effective reinforcement to strengthen steel structures during the daily maintenance. In this study, two repairing methods of high‐strength bolts and high‐modulus CFRP strips on the basis of stop‐hole repair method were introduced, respectively, to investigate fatigue improvement of cracked steel plates. First of all, numerical analysis was conducted to predict the repair efficiency and investigate the optimal parameters of each method. Variables studied were stop‐hole diameter, pretightening force of bolt, and size of CFRP patch. Subsequently, a total of 12 specimens were tested to study the repairing efficiency of cracked steel plates with various strengthening methods through cyclic loading. At the same time, the failure mode and fatigue life were analyzed to present the improvement of fatigue performance. In addition, the experimental results were compared against the S‐N curves of this strengthened fatigue detail. The outcomes of this study revealed that an improvement in the influence of fatigue‐crack repair with the adoption of these two strengthening methods was evident. Numerical results showed that the addition of these materials could significantly diminish stress concentration factor around hole edge and improve their fatigue performance in comparison with only stop‐hole method. Fatigue test results indicated that the crack initiation life of specimens repaired by stop‐hole method was more than 20 times that of the unrepaired specimens. The high‐strength bolt reinforced stop hole and CFRP patched stop hole can extend the crack initiation life by 9 and 8 times, respectively, in contrast to control specimens with sole stop‐hole method. Finally, it was demonstrated that repairing damaged steel plates with stop‐hole method alone was not enough to satisfy the fatigue strength requirements of various countries. But the fatigue strength category of damaged steel plates after further repairing with high‐strength bolts and high‐elastic‐modulus CFRP, respectively, was higher than category A of AASHTO.
New-Onset Diabetes in Children during COVID-19: Clinical Case Report
Authors: Aabdi M. , Aarab A. , Es-Saad O. , Malki K. , Bkiyar H. , Housni B.
Published: February 2021

Introduction. Data of COVID-19 in newborns and children are limited, and clinical manifestations are nonspecific and might delay the diagnosis, which might lead to severe complications. In this clinical case, we will describe new-onset diabetes with consciousness impairment as an atypical revealing way of COVID-19. Case. A 3-year-old child presented to the Emergency Department with loss of consciousness (without fever), lethargy, and stupor. Clinical assessment on admission found an unconscious child with a pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale of 10/15 with no localizing signs or meningeal syndrome, polypneic of 35 breaths/min, pulse oximetry of 90%, with signs of overall dehydration: skin folds, sunken eyes, tachycardia of 160 beats/minute, and recoloring time superior at 3 seconds. Laboratory findings showed hyperleukocytosis of 16000/mm3, lymphopenia of 450/mm3, glycemia of 5 g/L with a correct ionogram : corrected natremia of 139 mmol/L, serum potassium of 4.5 mmol/L, glycosuria of 3+, ketonuria of 2+, and HbA1c of 10%, and COVID-19 RT-PCR came back positive. Conclusion. COVID-19 might be revealed with atypical symptoms including new-onset diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis; therefore, clinicians must suspect it in children with blood glucose and HbA1c at the time of admission. This will help to manage patients with hyperglycemia early.
Impacts of Poynting–Robertson Drag and Dynamical Flattening Parameters on Motion around the Triangular Equilibrium Points of the Photogravitational ER3BP
Authors: Umar Aishetu , Abubakar Hussain Aminu
Published: February 2021

Using an analytical and numerical study, this paper investigates the equilibrium state of the triangular equilibrium points

L

4
,
 
 
5

of the Sun-Earth system in the frame of the elliptic restricted problem of three bodies subject to the radial component of Poynting–Robertson (P–R) drag and radiation pressure factor of the bigger primary as well as dynamical flattening parameters of both primary bodies (i.e., Sun and Earth). The equations of motion are presented in a dimensionless-pulsating coordinate system

ξ
−
η

, and the positions of the triangular equilibrium points are found to depend on the mass ratio

μ

and the perturbing forces involved in the equations of motion. A numerical analysis of the positions and stability of the triangular equilibrium points of the Sun-Earth system shows that the perturbing forces have no significant effect on the positions of the triangular equilibrium points and their stability. Hence, this research work concludes that the motion of an infinitesimal mass near the triangular equilibrium points of the Sun-Earth system remains linearly stable in the presence of the perturbing forces.
In Situ Monitoring and Numerical Experiments on Vertical Deformation Profiles of Large-Scale Underground Caverns in Giant Hydropower Stations
Authors: Wu Hao , Liu Jian , Wang Xiaogang , Liu Lipeng , Tian Zhenhua
Published: February 2021

Spatial response is a feature of rock deformation in regions surrounding large-scale underground caverns and includes significant vertical components due to the construction method of layered excavation. This vertical response is different to the longitudinal response of excavation deformation surrounding shallow tunnels. The study of longitudinal deformation profiles (LDPs), which describe the spatial response of longitudinal tunnel excavation and surrounding rock deformation, is a mature field. However, there has been no independent discussion of the relationship between vertical excavation and the spatial response of deformation in large-scale underground caverns nor the incremental characteristics of layered excavation. In this paper, we define the attenuation function

λ

x

of unloading strength based on theoretical analyses and numerical simulations. We also propose the concept and form of the vertical deformation profile (VDP) curve for the first time and apply it to the Baihetan and Lianghekou Hydropower Stations. After fitting the complete VDP curve with a Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm, we verify its validity by comparing predicted data with in situ monitoring data. The curve can be used to quantitatively analyze the relationship between layered excavation and incremental deformation of surrounding rock, providing a basis for the rapid evaluation of staged deformation during the excavation of large underground caverns. This study has practical significance for the control of deformation in rock surrounding excavations and decision-making during the construction progress.
Sequential Process of Diffusion Bonding and Annealing on Dissimilar Welding of Mg/Al Alloys
Authors: Ding Yunlong , Zhang Shixue , Wu Bi , Hao Jinshuang , Chen Yan , Ju Dongying
Published: February 2021

In this study, pressure supplying device based on thermal expansion and vacuum diffusion bonding method were used to weld magnesium alloy (AZ91) and aluminum alloy (6061). To enhance the microstructure and bonding properties of the welded Mg/Al alloys, the annealing process was continuously implemented on the composite specimens. Elemental analysis and structural observation/compound identification were conducted using an electron probe microanalyzer and a scanning electron microscope, respectively. For further assessment of the diffusion zone, microstructural examination was carried out using a transmission electron microscope. Furthermore, tensile strength and hardness values were also measured. The results showed that the diffusion zone widens with increasing annealing temperatures, but it changed obviously when the annealing temperature was 300°C. Intermetallic compounds in the diffusion zone were identified as Al2Mg and Al12Mg17, the microstructure and elemental composition were uniformly distributed, and tensile strength was the largest for the specimen annealed at 250°C. A possible reason for this could be that 250°C is nearly similar to the recrystallization temperature of Mg/Al alloys. Therefore, 250°C was determined to be the most suitable annealing temperature. In addition, the thermal expansion pressure supplying process was appropriate for the diffusion bonding of Mg/Al alloys.
Ultrasound‐Guided Thoracic Paravertebral Nerve Block on Postoperative Pain, Quality of Life, and Recovery in Patients with Non‐Small‐Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zheng Cuijuan , Wang Jiayu , Xie Shouxiang
Published: February 2021

Objectives. Our study will investigate the effect of ultrasound‐guided thoracic paravertebral block (UG‐TPVB) on postoperative pain, quality of life, and enhanced recovery in patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing lobectomy surgery. Methods. Our study included 100 patients aged 52 to 75 years who underwent lobectomy surgery with pathological diagnosis of NSCLC. Patients received ultrasound‐guided thoracic paravertebral block or general anesthesia with tracheal intubation. Patients’ pain score was recorded on a numeric rating scale (NRS) 24 hours post operation. The total postoperative dosage of tramadol hydrochloride, length of hospitalization, quality of life (QoL), and inflammation levels were recorded. Results. Compared with patients who received general anesthesia with tracheal intubation, patients in the UG‐TPVB group had lower postoperative NRS scores at 24 h (1.8 vs. 3.5, P = 0.035); the average 24 h postoperative NRS score of the UG‐TPVB group is lower than that of the general anesthesia with tracheal intubation (4.6 vs. 5.3, P = 0.012), thus receiving less dosage of tramadol hydrochloride (221 ± 45 vs. 250 ± 38 mg, P < 0.01). Patients in the UG‐TPVB group had better EORTC QLQ‐C30 scores compared with patients in the general anesthesia with tracheal intubation group. The difference of length of hospitalization, hs‐CRP, and IL‐6 between two groups did not reach statistical difference (length of hospitalization 6.2 vs. 6.9 days, P = 0.055; hs‐CRP: 7.1 ± 1.9 vs. 10.4 ± 6.6, P = 0.095; and IL‐6: 71.3 ± 7.2 vs. 68.9 ± 8.7, P = 0.529). Discussion. NSCLC patients undergoing lobectomy surgery who received UG‐TPVB had less postoperative pain, used less dosage of tramadol hydrochloride, and had better QoL.
Forest Resource Use Pattern in Fringe Villages of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary and Singalila National Park of Khangchendzonga Landscape, India
Authors: Chettri Santosh K. , Sharma Ghanashyam , Gaira Kailash S. , Pandey Aseesh , Joshi Rajesh , Chettri Nakul , Pradhan Bharat Kumar
Published: February 2021

Forests in the Barsey-Singalila transboundary area under Khangchendzonga landscape (KL) are facing pressures of resource uses. Despite continuous utilizations, complete data are lacking from the ground level. Socioeconomic, demographic, and forest use data were obtained by interviewing 233 households across two study locations. Forest product market survey was undertaken to determine prices of forest products. Resource dependence index was (0.60) high for both the locations. Alnus nepalensis is highly preferred fuel species with probability of use (0.791), and Rhododendron arboreum with probability of use (0.09) is considered as least preferred species. Relatively bigger village with more population is aggravating utilization pressures. Resource use at Gorkhey-Samanden is low (20% in case of fuelwood) as compared to the use at Ribdi-Bhareng (80% for fuelwood). Only preferred medicinal plants or wild edibles, namely, Yushania maling are collected regardless of their availability for fuelwood and other uses, which is causing more pressure on a small group of plants. A huge shortfall between resource demand and production indicates the possible extraction of resources from surrounding reserve forests. The results provide significant information on peoples dependency on forest resources and may be utilized for developing forest conservation policies for enhanced ecosystem services and livelihoods in the region.
A Rare Case of Unilateral Renal Cortical Necrosis
Authors: Haaskjold Yngvar Lunde , Nylund Kim , Skrunes Rannveig
Published: February 2021

Unilateral cortical necrosis is a rare condition, and only described in a few case reports. We present a case of a previously healthy 24-year-old male with acute unilateral cortical necrosis, where contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) became a valuable diagnostic tool. Antiphospholipid syndrome was subsequently diagnosed. Primary antiphospholipid syndrome is a well-known, but rare cause of cortical necrosis. It promotes thrombosis in renal arteries, capillaries and veins, and usually affects both kidneys. Unilateral cortical necrosis due to antiphospholipid syndrome has, to our knowledge, not been previously described.
ОГЛЯД ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНОГО РИНКУ АНТИАНЕМІЧНИХ ПРЕПАРТІВ В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: Palamar А. О. , Kliuiko A. A. , Palibroda N. M. , Bogdan N. S. , Tkachuk O. Yu. , Shpychak О. S.
Published: February 2021

Мета роботи: аналіз вітчизняного фармацевтичного ринку лікарських засобів для лікування анемій з урахуванням усіх форм випуску та виробників.

Матеріали та методи. Вивчення асортименту антианемічних препаратів проведено згідно з Державним реєстром лікарських засобів України та класифікацією АТС з використанням математико-статистичного, системно-аналітичного та порівняльного методів аналізу.

Результати й обговорення. Встановлено, що на фармацевтичному ринку України зареєстровано 76 найменувань антианемічних засобів, з яких 39,47 % складають препарати заліза. За результатами досліджень країн-виробників антианемічних препаратів визначено співвідношення лікарських засобів вітчизняного та закордонного виробництва, яке становить 46 % та 54 %, спостерігається домінування закордонних постачальників. Постачаються антианемічні засоби на український фармацевтичний ринок з 13 країн світу.

Висновки. Аналіз зареєстрованих антианемічних засобів показав, що за складом основну частину асортименту формують монокомпонентні препарати (84,21 %), спостерігається дефіцит комбінованих лікарських засобів, що свідчить про доцільність розширення номенклатури комбінованих засобів з метою оптимізації фармакотерапії пацієнтів з анемією.
ПОРІВНЯЛЬНИЙ АНАЛІЗ АСОРТИМЕНТУ М’ЯКИХ ЛІКАРСЬКИХ ЗАСОБІВ НА ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНОМУ РИНКУ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Hroshovyi T. A. , Blazhko І. V. , Shyrko А. Yu. , Pavliuk B. V. , Chubka M. B.
Published: February 2021

Мета роботи. Дослідити асортимент ЛЗ у вигляді МЛФ, що зареєстровані на фармацевтичному ринку України станом на 2019 р., та провести порівняльний аналіз зміни асортименту досліджуваних ЛФ впродовж 5 років (станом на 2014 р.).

Матеріали і методи. Використовували офіційні джерела інформації про зареєстровані в Україні ЛЗ у МЛФ та попередні результати маркетингових досліджень. При проведенні дослідження застосовували загальноприйняті методи системного і статистичного аналізу.

Результати й обговорення. Проаналізовано ринок МЛЗ станом на 2019 р. за видом ЛФ, складом ЛЗ, походженням АФІ, країною та фірмою-виробником, а також за напрямком застосування, та встановлено, що в досліджуваному асортименті ЛФ переважають препарати іноземного виробництва (56 %), найбільший відсоток із зареєстрованих МЛФ займають мазі (42,89 %), домінують монокомпонентні ЛЗ (64,63 %) над комбінованими (35,37 %), переважають МЛЗ синтетичного походження (61,99 %). Порівняльний аналіз МЛЗ за період 2014 р. та 2019 р. показав, що асортимент зареєстрованих МЛЗ збільшився з 478 (2014 р.) до 492 (2019 р.) найменувань ЛЗ; частка МЛЗ вітчизняного виробництва становить 44,11 % (2019 р.) і збільшилась на 9,39 % порівняно з 2014 р., тоді як частка МЛЗ іноземного виробництва знизилась від 65,28 % (2014 р.) до 55,89 % (2019 р.); зберігається тенденція домінування мазей, гелів та кремів із незначним зменшенням частки гелів у 2019 р. на 1,96 % порівняно із 2014 р.; співвідношення між МЛЗ за галуззю застосування практично не змінилося – збільшилась частка МЛЗ, що використовуються у дерматовенерології (на 3,32 %) та гінекології (на 1,34 %).

Висновки. За результатами порівняльного аналізу зареєстрованих ЛЗ у МЛФ в 2014 р. та в 2019 р. встановлено динаміку фармацевтичного ринку досліджуваних препаратів. Актуальним залишається питання розширення асортименту вітчизняних МЛФ для застосування у різних галузях медицини.
Translocal Households and Family Visions in Contemporary Vietnam
Authors: Luong Hy V.
Published: February 2021

In relation to the international academic debate on global neoliberal ideology and its influence on individual subjectivities, this paper examines family visions among the older and younger members of translocal households in contemporary rural Vietnam. Data from a longitudinal study of seven rural Vietnamese communities from 2000 to 2016 suggest that people in rural Vietnam consider the care of the young and the old, including its financial aspects, primarily an individual and family responsibility. They define a good life in terms not only of material and modern comfort, but also of family relations and responsibilities. While neoliberalism constitutes one ideological strand in contemporary Vietnamese policy circles, this paper suggests that it is ahistorical and simplistic to attribute people’s emphasis on individual and family responsibilities in caring for the young and the old to neoliberalism.
Taxonomic revision of Justicia sect. Harnieria (Acanthaceae) from the Philippines
Authors: TONG YI , DENG YUNFEI
Published: February 2021

Justicia sect. Harnieria is revised from the Philippines for the first time. Seven species are recognized. Two new combinations (J. aspera and J. ramosii) and a replacement name (J. sulitii) are proposed. An identification key to the species is provided. The lectotype is designated for the name Justicia loheri. The description, line drawings and distribution maps are also provided for each species excluding J. aspera.
Monitoring and Forecasting Kenya’s Fluctuating Hydroclimate
Authors: Jury Mark R.
Published: February 2021

This study reviews Kenya’s fluctuating hydroclimate (3°S–4°N, 35°–40°E) and evaluates products that describe its area-averaged daily rainfall during 2008–18, monthly evaporation during 2000–18, and catchment hydrology via gauge, satellite, and model hindcast/forecast. Using the correlation of rainfall as a metric of skill we found daily satellite versus model hindcasts achieved 75%, while model forecasts at 2–6-day lead achieved 55%–58%. The daily satellite versus model soil moisture had a significant correlation (84%), and model runoff versus gauge streamflow reached 61%. A 2-day delay was noted between rainfall and streamflow response in recent flood events; however, long-range predictability was found to be poor (35%). These outcomes were considered at a local workshop, and ways to sustainably improve the real-time reporting of key hydroclimate parameters for operational data assimilation were suggested as steps toward better monitoring and forecast services in Kenya.
Drivers of Atmospheric and Oceanic Surface Temperature Variance: A Frequency Domain Approach
Authors: Martin Paige E. , Arbic Brian K. , Hogg Andrew McC.
Published: February 2021

Ocean–atmosphere coupling modifies the variability of Earth’s climate over a wide range of time scales. However, attribution of the processes that generate this variability remains an outstanding problem. In this article, air–sea coupling is investigated in an eddy-resolving, medium-complexity, idealized ocean–atmosphere model. The model is run in three configurations: fully coupled, partially coupled (where the effect of the ocean geostrophic velocity on the sea surface temperature field is minimal), and atmosphere-only. A surface boundary layer temperature variance budget analysis computed in the frequency domain is shown to be a powerful tool for studying air–sea interactions, as it differentiates the relative contributions to the variability in the temperature field from each process across a range of time scales (from daily to multidecadal). This method compares terms in the ocean and atmosphere across the different model configurations to infer the underlying mechanisms driving temperature variability. Horizontal advection plays a dominant role in driving temperature variance in both the ocean and the atmosphere, particularly at time scales shorter than annual. At longer time scales, the temperature variance is dominated by strong coupling between atmosphere and ocean. Furthermore, the Ekman transport contribution to the ocean’s horizontal advection is found to underlie the low-frequency behavior in the atmosphere. The ocean geostrophic eddy field is an important driver of ocean variability across all frequencies and is reflected in the atmospheric variability in the western boundary current separation region at longer time scales.
The Influence of Antecedent Atmospheric River Conditions on Extratropical Cyclogenesis
Authors: Zhang Zhenhai , Ralph F. Martin
Published: February 2021

Some extratropical cyclones (ETC) begin their development in close proximity to a preexisting atmospheric river (AR). This study investigates the differences in the cyclogenesis stage between these cyclogenesis events and those that begin without an AR nearby. Well-established ETC and AR detection methods are applied to reanalysis over the North Pacific during the 1979–2009 cool seasons (November–March). Of the 3137 cyclogenesis cases detected, 35% are associated with a nearby AR at the time of initial cyclogenesis. Of all 448 cyclones that deepened explosively in the 24 h after their initiation, 60% began with a preexisting AR nearby. The roles of both dry and diabatic processes that contribute to cyclogenesis are examined, specifically, low-level baroclinicity, upper-level forcing, water vapor inflow, and latent heating. ETCs that develop associated with a preexisting AR receive nearly 80% more water vapor inflow on average, enhancing latent heating and intensifying cyclone deepening in the genesis stage. In contrast, neither low-level baroclinicity nor upper-level potential vorticity exhibit statistically significant differences between cyclogenesis events with and without an AR. Cyclogenesis events associated with an exceptionally strong AR at the ETC initial time deepen even more rapidly in the genesis stage, indicating that the intensity of an antecedent AR can modulate cyclogenesis. About half of the cyclogenesis cases off the U.S. West Coast are associated with ARs at their initial time. These results imply that errors in initial conditions related to ARs can contribute to errors in both AR and ETC predictions, as well as their concomitant impacts.
Gender, Race, Age, Allopathic Degree, Board Score, and Research Experience Among Applicants Matching to General and Orthopedic Surgery Residencies, 2015-2019
Authors: Sutherland Mason , Sanchez Carol , Baroutjian Amanda , Ali Aleeza , McKenney Mark , Elkbuli Adel
Published: February 2021

Background

Surgical fields are historically dominated by male physicians. Increasing the diversity of the physician workforce improves training and patient experiences. We aim to investigate any differences in qualifications and match rates between male and female applicants to general surgery (GS) and orthopedic surgery (OS) residencies in the United States.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed utilizing the Association of American Medical Colleges data regarding Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) applicants and matched Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) residents into GS and OS residencies from 2015 to 2019. Descriptive statistics and independent sample T-tests were performed with significance defined as P < .05.

Results

26 568 GS and 7076 OS ERAS applicants matched at a rate of 25.2% and 55.3%, respectively. Men and women matched into GS at rates of 23.0% and 29.2%, respectively. Men and women matched into OS at rates of 55.2% and 56.2%, respectively. Men aged ≥36 years matched into OS at a significantly higher rate than women aged years ≥36 (11.9% vs. 1.4%, P = .009). Female GS ERAS applicants and entering ACGME residents had a higher mean number of research experiences than male GS ERAS applicants (2.66 vs. 2.26, P < .001) and entering male GS ACGME residents (2.96 vs. 2.56, P = .008).

Conclusions

Male and female GS and OS applicants have similar qualifications. Women match into GS and OS at higher rates than men but comprise disproportionately lower numbers of applicants. Greater mentorship opportunities and recruitment of female applicants are needed to expand, diversify, and increase representation of women in surgery.
Ten Things Every Manager Should Know About Nonverbal Behavior
Authors: Carney Dana R.
Published: February 2021

Managers—whether they realize it or not—have a profound influence over how people they work with think and feel. This article presents ten nonverbal behaviors managers should (or should not) be doing, the science behind them, and the tools to start modifying them. The ten topics covered are: avoiding micro-aggressions, liking and valuing others, building trust and consensus, listening, resting “cranky face,” power, status, intelligence, deception, and how to leverage the “wisdom of the crowd” to better “read” others. Knowing these nonverbal strategies can potentially make managers more effective in their workplace.
Adapting “Color Blindness” to South Korean Attitudes Toward Multicultural Minorities: Scale Development
Authors: Baek Keun Young , Seo Young Seok , Kim Ae Ran , Piao Jinlan
Published: February 2021

Four studies were conducted to develop and validate the South Korean Attitudes Toward Multicultural Minorities Scale (SKAMMS). Exploratory factor analysis ( n = 336) identified three factors: Unawareness of South Korean Privilege and Discrimination against Multicultural Minorities, Attitudes Against Multiculturalism, and Attitudes Against Advocacy and Policy for Multicultural Minorities. Confirmatory factor analysis ( n = 537) provided cross-validation of the 16-item, three-factor model and identified that a three-factor bifactor model best fit the data. Correlational analyses provided evidence of the discriminant and convergent validities of the SKAMMS. Evidence of incremental validity of the SKAMMS was obtained ( n = 165), where the SKAMMS accounted for additional variance in criterion variables (i.e., cognitive, affective, and behavioral reactions toward racism) above other measures of attitudes toward multicultural minorities. The estimated 2-week test-retest reliabilities ( n = 53) ranged from .67 to .82. We discuss implications for the use of the SKAMMS for practice, advocacy, education/training, and research.
Examining the Impact of and Sensitivity of Fit Indices to Omitting Covariates Interaction Effect in Multilevel Multiple-Indicator Multiple-Cause Models
Authors: Cao Chunhua , Kim Eun Sook , Chen Yi-Hsin , Ferron John
Published: February 2021

This study examined the impact of omitting covariates interaction effect on parameter estimates in multilevel multiple-indicator multiple-cause models as well as the sensitivity of fit indices to model misspecification when the between-level, within-level, or cross-level interaction effect was left out in the models. The parameter estimates produced in the correct and the misspecified models were compared under varying conditions of cluster number, cluster size, intraclass correlation, and the magnitude of the interaction effect in the population model. Results showed that the two main effects were overestimated by approximately half of the size of the interaction effect, and the between-level factor mean was underestimated. None of comparative fit index, Tucker–Lewis index, root mean square error of approximation, and standardized root mean square residual was sensitive to the omission of the interaction effect. The sensitivity of information criteria varied depending majorly on the magnitude of the omitted interaction, as well as the location of the interaction (i.e., at the between level, within level, or cross level). Implications and recommendations based on the findings were discussed.
Should We Just Let the Machines Do It? The Benefit and Cost of Action Recommendation and Action Implementation Automation
Authors: Tatasciore Monica , Bowden Vanessa K. , Visser Troy A. W. , Loft Shayne
Published: February 2021

Objective

To examine the effects of action recommendation and action implementation automation on performance, workload, situation awareness (SA), detection of automation failure, and return-to-manual performance in a submarine track management task.

Background

Theory and meta-analytic evidence suggest that with increasing degrees of automation (DOA), operator performance improves and workload decreases, but SA and return-to-manual performance declines.

Method

Participants monitored the location and heading of contacts in order to classify them, mark their closest point of approach (CPA), and dive when necessary. Participants were assigned either no automation, action recommendation automation, or action implementation automation. An automation failure occurred late in the task, whereby the automation provided incorrect classification advice or implemented incorrect classification actions.

Results

Compared to no automation, action recommendation automation benefited automated task performance and lowered workload, but cost nonautomated task performance. Action implementation automation resulted in perfect automated task performance (by default) and lowered workload, with no costs to nonautomated task performance, SA, or return-to-manual performance compared to no automation. However, participants provided action implementation automation were less likely to detect the automation failure compared to those provided action recommendations, and made less accurate classifications immediately after the automation failure, compared to those provided no automation.

Conclusion

Action implementation automation produced the anticipated benefits but also caused poorer automation failure detection.

Application

While action implementation automation may be effective for some task contexts, system designers should be aware that operators may be less likely to detect automation failures and that performance may suffer until such failures are detected.
The impact of Chinese investments on western multinational enterprises’ work and employment practices: A consideration of institutional, political and dominance effects
Authors: Geary John , Nyiawung Julius
Published: February 2021

One of the most significant developments in international business in recent years is the dramatic expansion of Chinese – often state-led or state-supported – investment in Africa. While we know something of Chinese multinational enterprises’ strategies, we know comparatively little about their work and employment practices and even less about their influence on western multinational companies (MNEs). We examine these important issues by looking at the practices of a major Chinese MNE alongside those of a French MNE and a US MNE in Cameroon’s oil industry. We find that while the French and American MNEs were successful in importing their preferred practices and in evading host-country regulations for many years, this was challenged upon the arrival of the Chinese MNE. We query why and by what means did the entrance of a major MNE lead to significant changes in the behaviours of long-resident MNEs. The translation of the identified effects is explained by drawing on different levels of analysis that include an appreciation of the location of the MNE and the state within the international political economy of capitalism, attendant shifts in the frontiers of political influence, isomorphic institutional influences, actors’ postures within and beyond the MNE, and their relational interplay.
The European Union’s two-fold multilateralism in crisis mode: Towards a global response to COVID-19
Authors: Lavallée Chantal
Published: February 2021

The European Union (EU) has been strongly criticized from the outset for its alleged mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic which began early in 2020. Several observers even predicted the end of European integration. This article examines how the EU has been managing the crisis, with a focus on how this has impacted its external relations, notably with Canada. It will argue that this crisis, as is the case with most crises the EU has gone through, has brought to light existing ambiguities in European governance, but that it has not led to fundamental questions about the EU’s and its member states’ overall commitment to Europe’s “two-fold multilateralism” (i.e., internal and external collaboration). EU representatives have re-emphasized this principle when reiterating the need for both European coordinated actions as well as a global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, working closely with their partners, including Canada. Therefore, amid the evolving and serious health-related and economy-related challenges, the crisis offers an occasion for the EU to strengthen and deepen both its integration and its global role.
Does Globalisation Promote Economic Output in Sub-Saharan Africa? Evidence from Bootstrap ARDL Model
Authors: Dong Huiping , Cai Yifei , Shi Xing
Published: February 2021

This study aims to investigate whether globalisation promotes economic output in Sub-Saharan African countries in both the short run and the long run. Based on the latest version of the KOF globalisation index, we employ a newly developed bootstrap autoregressive distributed lag model to analyse this question. Compared to the traditional autoregressive distributed lag model, which ignores the degenerate cases, the new approach could avoid spurious cointegration. Results show that globalisation and economic output are positively correlated for most Sub-Saharan African countries, while the causal effect cannot be concluded except for a couple of exceptions. This finding implies that globalisation cannot guarantee an increase in economic output in the long run for most Sub-Saharan African countries. The Granger causality test shows that globalisation leads to economic output for Burundi, Gabon, Rwanda, Senegal and Zambia in the short run. Conversely, economic output leads to globalisation for Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya and Senegal. For Senegal, globalisation and economic output mutually determine each other and therefore form a positive spiral development path. Policymakers should be aware of the specific features of different economies in making sound globalisation policies to avoid the underlying adverse effects of global integration.
Private Eyes in the Sky: Emerging Technology and the Political Consequences of Eroding Government Secrecy
Authors: Lin-Greenberg Erik , Milonopoulos Theo
Published: February 2021

How do emerging technologies that erode governments’ near-monopolies on intelligence information affect public support for leaders and their foreign policies? Technologies—like imagery satellites—that were once the domain of state governments are now increasingly available to commercial and private actors. As a result, non-government entities can now exercise the disclosure decision, publicly divulging information whose release was once controlled by states. We argue that non-government entities with access to these technologies serve as alternative information sources that can verify government claims or reveal activities governments have not previously acknowledged. Using original survey experiments we find that commercial satellite imagery can serve as an informational cue that shifts public opinion, and, depending on its content, either attenuates or bolsters the effect of similar cues from government sources. The findings advance debates over secrecy in international relations and on the effect of emerging technologies in the security domain.
Drug Court Recidivism in the Rural Midwest: A 3-Year Post-Separation Analysis
Authors: Wadkins Theresa , Campbell Julie
Published: February 2021

Substance abuse continues to be a pressing social problem in the United States today. As the country battles an opioid epidemic, many jurisdictions have adopted the problem-solving court model in response. These specialized courts, known as drug courts, offer a rehabilitative approach to offender management. Drug courts balance substance abuse rehabilitation with community-based supervision and operate with the philosophy that addressing the addiction will result in a decrease in criminal offending. The current study examines the recidivism rates for 50 participants who have been separated (i.e., completed or terminated) from one rural drug court program in the Midwest for at least 3 years. Findings indicate that successful completion of drug court is associated with decreases in misdemeanor offending, and more importantly, decreases in felony offending. While preliminary, the findings of this research provide support for the drug court model in the rural Midwest. Further research in this area is highly recommended.
South African Teachers’ Perspectives of What Causes Students to Exhibit Challenging Behavior in Primary Schools
Authors: Rubbi Nunan Julie Shantone
Published: February 2021

South African primary school teachers struggle curtailing student behaviors, therefore impeding teaching and learning. To understand this phenomenon, 15 primary school teachers were interviewed. Findings reveal that students’ negative family dynamics, displaced aggression, and social factors influenced challenging behavior. Social cognitive theory and general systems theory rationalized how behavior is learned and transferred within systems. Understanding the causative factors of student challenging behavior will benefit teachers to understand the student before addressing their behavior. Future research should look into student challenging behavior from other perspectives. School intervention programs should be established that support vulnerable students to curtail their challenging behavior.