bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of Tropical Tropopause Layer Cirrus Prediction in GRAPES Global Forecast System
Authors: Chen Jiong , Li Zhe , Ma Zhanshan , Su Yong , Liu Qijun
Published: December 2021

A warm bias with a maximum value of over 4 K in the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) is detected in day-5 operational forecasts of the Global/Regional Assimilation and Prediction System (GRAPES) for global medium-range numerical weather prediction (GRAPES_GFS). In this study, the predicted temperature changes caused by different processes are examined, and the predicted cloud fractions are compared with the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts ERA5 reanalysis data. It is found that the overprediction of the TTL cirrus fraction contributes to the warm bias due to cloud-radiative heating. The interactions among the ice nucleation, deposition/sublimation, and the large-scale condensation together determine the results of the TTL ice crystal content prediction. Moreover, a range of sensitivity experiments show that the TTL ice crystal content prediction is sensitive to the threshold relative humidity over ice (RHi) in the ice nucleation process. Then the uncertainties of the formulas for saturation vapor pressure over ice at very low temperatures are discussed. The RHi calculated based on the Magnus–Tetens formula is up to 10% higher than that based on the Goff–Gratch formula. As the Goff–Gratch formula is applicable over a broader range of 184–273 K, it is more suitable for the cold TTL. When the Goff–Gratch formula rather than the Magnus–Tetens formula is used in the microphysics scheme, the TTL cirrus forecasts are improved greatly, and the warm bias disappears completely. After investigating the interplay of the dynamical, microphysical, and radiative processes, we find a positive feedback mechanism that exacerbates the TTL cirrus prediction error.
The Impact of State Drug Laws on High School Completion and College Enrollment for Latino Young Men
Authors: Britton Tolani A. , Moreno Luna Arlyn Y.
Published: December 2021

Although college enrollment and completion rates have increased over the past 30 years, access to higher education has not been uniform across racial groups. In addition to racial gaps, differences in tertiary education outcomes exist by gender. Gender gaps in college enrollment are larger in the Latinx community than in other racial or ethnic groups. In this paper, we use the October Current Population Survey (CPS) supplements for the years 1984–1992 and state and federal drug laws to measure the impact of the passage of the 1986 Anti-Drug Abuse Act on the likelihood of college enrollment for young Latino men. Following the passage of the federal law, some states changed their drug laws around marijuana and cocaine possession and distribution. We use this variation in state law in order to explore whether states that have more lenient marijuana and cocaine laws also have a higher likelihood of college enrollment. We find that there was a four percentage point decline in both the likelihood of high school completion and that of college enrollment for Latinx men after the passage of the 1986 Anti-Drug Abuse Act. Findings have implications for modifications to state drug laws and addressing the ways in which these laws impact educational attainment for students underrepresented in higher education.
The Effect of Patient Positioning on Intraoperative Neuromonitoring During Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery
Authors: Munshi Ruhul , Mankowski Nicholas , Souza Spenser , Shalaby Hosam , Elnahla Ahmed , Akkera Mounika , Hussein Mohammad , Cox Katherine , Borchardt Jeffrey , McClure Brian , Shama Mohamed , Toraih Eman , Kandil Emad
Published: December 2021

Background

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) has been accepted as a routine adjunct among surgeons who perform thyroid and parathyroid surgeries. Thyroid and parathyroid surgeries use various patient positioning strategies that have poorly understood effects on IONM. The aim of this study was to compare IONM signals between the transaxillary and transcervical approaches.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we evaluated 463 adult patients who underwent a total of 502 procedures. The procedures performed included total thyroidectomy, right or left hemithyroidectomy, and parathyroidectomy. Vagus nerve and recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) latency and amplitude measurements were analyzed intra-operatively. The distances between the vagus nerve and the trachea were measured via ultrasound during transaxillary procedures.

Results

Compared to the transcervical approach, the right vagus nerve latency was significantly decreased in the transaxillary approach. Transaxillary surgery was not associated with increased latency or decreased amplitude on IONM. The distance between the vagus nerve and trachea was significantly decreased post-positioning during transaxillary approaches.

Discussion

Despite differences in patient positioning, a transaxillary approach was not associated with increased stress on the vagus nerve or RLN, according to IONM data. The decreased right vagus nerve latency associated with a transaxillary approach highlights the importance of considering patient positioning and laterality while interpreting IONM data.
On a Class of Transmuted Distributions to Model Survival Data with a Cure Fraction
Authors: Asha G. , Soorya C. S.
Published: December 2021

Modelling time to event data, when there is always a proportion of the individuals, commonly referred to as immunes who do not experience the event of interest, is of importance in many biomedical studies. Improper distributions are used to model these situations and they are generally referred to as cure rate models. In the literature, two main families of cure rate models have been proposed, namely the mixture cure models and promotion time cure models. Here we propose a new model by extending the mixture model via a generating function by considering a shifted Bernoulli distribution. This gives rise to a new class of popular distributions called the transmuted class of distributions to model survival data with a cure fraction. The properties of the proposed model are investigated and parameters estimated. The Bayesian approach to the estimation of parameters is also adopted. The complexity of the likelihood function is handled through the Metropolis-Hasting algorithm. The proposed method is illustrated with few examples using different baseline distributions. A real life data set is also analysed.

AMS subject classifications: 62N02, 62F15
Calibration of Trust in Automated Driving: A Matter of Initial Level of Trust and Automated Driving Style?
Authors: Manchon J. B. , Bueno Mercedes , Navarro Jordan
Published: December 2021

Objective

Automated driving is becoming a reality, and such technology raises new concerns about human–machine interaction on road. This paper aims to investigate factors influencing trust calibration and evolution over time.

Background

Numerous studies showed trust was a determinant in automation use and misuse, particularly in the automated driving context.

Method

Sixty-one drivers participated in an experiment aiming to better understand the influence of initial level of trust (Trustful vs. Distrustful) on drivers’ behaviors and trust calibration during two sessions of simulated automated driving. The automated driving style was manipulated as positive (smooth) or negative (abrupt) to investigate human–machine early interactions. Trust was assessed over time through questionnaires. Drivers’ visual behaviors and take-over performances during an unplanned take-over request were also investigated.

Results

Results showed an increase of trust over time, for both Trustful and Distrustful drivers regardless the automated driving style. Trust was also found to fluctuate over time depending on the specific events handled by the automated vehicle. Take-over performances were not influenced by the initial level of trust nor automated driving style.

Conclusion

Trust in automated driving increases rapidly when drivers’ experience such a system. Initial level of trust seems to be crucial in further trust calibration and modulate the effect of automation performance. Long-term trust evolutions suggest that experience modify drivers’ mental model about automated driving systems.

Application

In the automated driving context, trust calibration is a decisive question to guide such systems’ proper utilization, and road safety.
Eventful past, stagnant present, and hopeful future: A time order analysis of experiences of homeless women with chronic mental illness residing in shelter care homes
Authors: Moorkath Febna , Vranda Mysore Narasimha , Naveen Kumar Channaveerachari
Published: December 2021

Background:

In developing countries like India, many women with mental illness are residing in shelter care homes (SCHs) without their wish. SCHs are residential facilities provided to the socially and economically backward women for free of cost. These facilities are funded by government or voluntary organizations.

Aim:

To understand the living experiences of homeless women with chronic mental illness (HWCMI) admitted in SCHs.

Method:

This article highlights learning from a qualitative study, 17 HWCMI participated in the research. Along with their past experiences, present life, and expectations in the future, other socio-demographic details also recorded. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis approach with the Atlas ti-8 software. Findings: Three main themes were emerged from the analysis such as ‘Eventful past’, ‘Stagnant present’, and ‘Hopeful future’. The theme ‘Eventful past’ shows clear pathways to homelessness. ‘Stagnant present’ reflects upon trapped present life and their concerns and care-related aspects. The final theme, ‘hopeful future’, depicts strong hope in future and readiness for changing their living situations. The findings are discussed in the background of current trends in psychiatric rehabilitation and what is lacking in the Indian context.

Conclusion:

This study attempts to unveil the gender-specific and person-centric explanations of experiences associated with the combination of homelessness and mental illness.
Referral vs Transfer of Care: Ethical Options When Values Differ
Authors: Jones-Nosacek Cynthia
Published: December 2021

Conscientious objection (CO) in medicine is where a healthcare professional (HCP) firmly opposes, with an expression of reasoned disapproval, a legally available procedure or treatment that is proscribed by one’s conscience. While there remains controversy regarding whether conscientious objection should be a part of medicine, even among those who support CO state that if the HCP does not provide the requested service such as abortion, physician assisted suicide, etc., there is an obligation on the part of the objecting HCP to refer to someone who will provide it. However, referral makes the referring HCP complicit in the act the referrer believes to be immoral since the referrer has a duty to know that the HCP who will accept the patient is not only able to do the procedure but is competent in its performance as well. The referrer thus facilitates the process. Since one has a moral obligation to limit complicity with immoral actions when it cannot be avoided, the alternative is to allow the patient to transfer care to another when the patient has made the autonomous decision to reject the advice of the HCP.
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Concerns of Grieving Caregivers Scale (COGCS) with Two Clinical Samples
Authors: O’Leary Samantha , Quinn-Nilas Christopher , Pileggi Victoria , Eaton Russell Ceilidh
Published: December 2021

The Concerns of Grieving Caregivers Scale (COGCS) is the first of its kind to explore caregivers’ concerns about their own parenting, as well as their relationships with, and specific behaviours of their bereaved child(ren). Using exploratory factor analysis, we evaluate grieving parents’ and caregivers’ concerns using data collected across clinical populations from two community organizations supporting grieving families (i.e., a children’s grief centre and a community hospice). Two identified factors were established: Concerns about Caregiving and Concerns about the Child. The COGCS demonstrates good internal consistency and criterion validity in its application with two distinct clinical samples. The use of this scale could be of value to clinicians supporting bereaved caregivers and their families as they can integrate concern-specific resources into their practice to better support their clients’ presenting concerns.
Consequences of Unexplained Experiences in the Context of Bereavement – Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Mäkikomsi Milla , Terkamo-Moisio Anja , Kaunonen Marja , Aho Anna Liisa
Published: December 2021

Unexplained experiences are common among bereaved people and are a natural part of grieving, but their consequences may affect their coping with grief. However, professionals lack awareness of these unexplained experiences, which may lead to an unnecessary pathologising of the experiences and a lack of opportunity for the bereaved to process their experiences in a safe environment. The study involved an inductive content analysis of 408 narratives of the consequences of unexplained experiences shared by 181 bereaved individuals. The consequences of the unexplained experiences were: (1) Experiencing after-effects which may alleviate or aggravate wellbeing, as well as be life-affecting; (2) consequences related to sharing or concealing the experiences, and the reactions of others to recounting the experience; (3) documenting the experience through videography, photography and keeping mementos. In conclusion, these experiences have consequences to bereaved which needs to be taken account in support interventions aimed at bereaved individuals.
The editor’s note: Time to invest in rural education
Authors: Heller Rafael
Published: December 2021

For decades, the needs of rural schools and students have received scant media and policy attention and have had to make do with insufficient funds. As Rafael Heller explains, the current education policy landscape is opening up opportunities for rural education advocates to press for the kinds of reforms that could improve both rural school and their communities overall.
When five shrinks to four: Assessing the four-day school week in rural locales
Authors: Anglum J. Cameron
Published: December 2021

In rural school districts across the country, four-day school weeks have proliferated. Currently adopted in 1,600 schools in 600 school districts, 90% of which are rural, four-day school week policies have prospered largely without a robust body of evidence to support their expansion. J. Cameron Anglum presents an overview of four-day school week policy expansion and describes a few of the studies into its effects on students, families, and communities.
Reimagining american education: Possible futures: Possible futures for equitable educational assessment
Authors: Penuel William R.
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic led states and districts to take a break from grading students and pause standardized testing. As part of an ongoing series of articles on how schools might reconceptualize their work, William Penuel considers what kinds of assessment practices should be carried forward, as schools attempt to become more equitable. He suggests that schools look to work students create as evidence of learning, that they ensure their assessment practices recognize students’ various cultures, and that they use student work to make connections with families and community members.
Under the law: The rights of rural students
Authors: Kim Robert
Published: December 2021

The difficulties rural school face are well known, and some have turned to the courts for help, joining with urban districts in lawsuits that seek to force states to change how education funds are distributed. Robert Kim reviews litigation in Tennessee, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania that illustrate the challenges these schools face.
Career confidential: Principal ticked off about TikTok challenges
Authors: Phyllis Fagell L.
Published: December 2021

Phyllis Fagell offers advice to educators who are trying to support students who are demonstrating difficult behavior when returning to school after the COVID-19 pandemic. A principal is frustrated at the vandalism occurring at his middle school in response to TikTok challenges and wants to know the most appropriate way to hold students accountable. A teacher is having trouble reaching a student who refuses to engage in class, and his mother and the school social worker are also at a loss for ideas.
Immersion and Socio-Emotional Experiences During a Movie – Polish Adaptation of the Movie Consumption Questionnaires
Authors: Stefanek Franciszek , Skorupa Agnieszka , Brol Michał , Flakus Maria
Published: December 2021

The aim of the article is to present a description of the psychometric properties of the Polish adaptation of the Movie Consumption Questionnaires (MCQ) – Immersion and MCQ – Experience. The instrument, created by Fornerino, Helme-Guizon and Gotteland (2008) allows measuring movie consumption in terms of immersion, the intensity of emotions and the intensity of social interactions during the screening. The Polish adaptation of the tool involved two stages, whose participants were movie-goers attending screening events at a cinema ( N=577). The factor structure of the adapted instrument strongly resembles that obtained in the original study (RMSEA<0.08, CFI>0.95, SRNR<0.08) and has demonstrated very good internal consistency (α>0.8, ω>0.8). Criterion validity was also verified through the use of questionnaires that examine the following: affect – PANAS-X (Fajkowska & Marszał-Wiśniewska, 2009), emotionality – HEXACO (Szarota et al., 2007) and mindfulness – Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (Skala Świadomej Obecności; Radoń, 2014). Results of the analyses suggest that the adapted scales may be used as satisfactory tools for measuring movie consumption. By the same token, they may be useful in further psychological exploration of the movie screening phenomenon, with particular regard to immersion, emotional reactions and social interactions of the viewer.
Study on frequency selective/absorption/reflection multilayer composite flexible electromagnetic interference shielding fabric
Authors: Zhang Hengyu , Chen Jianying , Ji Hui , Wang Ni , Xiao Hong
Published: December 2021

Three kinds of electromagnetic functional materials, frequency selective surface, carbonyl iron coated absorbing fabric and conductive woven fabric, were laminated to filter, absorb and reflect electromagnetic waves. Through equivalent circuit analysis, the frequency selection characteristics and the correlation between the shape and size of the periodic structure of cross-shaped and Jerusalem-shaped frequency selective surfaces were studied. It is found that frequency selective surfaces can reduce the transmission coefficient of carbonyl iron coated fabric at the resonance point, so that the working frequency band of the composite shielding material can be controlled and adjusted. The stacking order has no effect on the frequency selective surface/frequency selective surface double-layer materials, but influence the transmission coefficient of composite materials with frequency selective surface superimposed carbonyl iron coated fabric and/or conductive woven fabric. Among all samples, the transmission coefficient of Jerusalem-shaped/carbonyl iron coated fabric-3/conductive woven fabric has the most strong shielding effect, which is up to −51.72 dB at 10.48 GHz. It is proved that using flexible fabric as the matrix and compounding materials with different electromagnetic functions is an effective method to realize high efficiency and adjustable electromagnetic shielding ability.
Textronics spacer knitted material tests as a key element of the diagnostic system that monitors above the proper level of seat vibration
Authors: Frydrysiak Michal Pawel , Pawliczak Zbigniew
Published: December 2021

This research is focused on the construction and examination of a prototype of a spacer knitted material with integrated sensors. The combination of textiles with elements of electronics, computer science, and a knowledge of automation is called textronics. This type of material has been proposed as a component of diagnostic systems to monitor the extension level of vibration in employee seats at selected workstations or in children’s chairs. The purpose of the diagnostic system is to improve personal protective equipment (PPE) and increase employee safety. The spacer knitted material was tested with vibration frequencies in the range of 0–40 Hz to develop metrological properties under reproducible and repeatable conditions. The tested spacer knitted material meets the requirements of sensory properties such as vibration. The tested material is characterized by the following metrological parameters: total uncertainty U = 4.5%, sensitivity Sa = 0.64 [V/s2/m] and excitability threshold of 5 Pa with simultaneous high coefficient of low-frequency vibration damping of effective amplitude transmissibility (SEAT) = 2.3. Spacer knitted materials are modern constructs that enable the creation of new hybrid structures that have other properties, e.g., sensory suppression, in addition to spatial form.
Management of Low back pain in Saudi Arabia healthcare system. A Qualitative Study
Authors: Alhowimel Ahmed S. , Alodaibi Faris A. , Alotaibi Mazyad A. , Alamam Dalyah M. , Fritz Julie
Published: December 2021

Background

Patients with chronic low back pain can contribute to a global socioeconomic burden. Current international recommendations emphasize that low back pain management should occur at the primary-care level. However, there is a lack of essential services for low back pain management at the primary-care level in Saudi Arabia. We explored the current state of low back pain management in Saudi Arabia from the perspective of spine surgeons and physiotherapists.

Methods

A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted on spine surgeons and physiotherapists. A total of 17 healthcare workers, 8 spine surgeons (age range 28–49 years) and 9 physiotherapists (age range 30–49 years) participated in the study. Data were recorded and analyzed thematically.

Results

Three main themes were identified from the interview data that outlined current low back pain management in Saudi Arabia: clinical guideline availability and pathways of care, utilization of primary care services, and overutilization of secondary care resources.

Conclusions

This study suggests underutilization of primary care services and overutilization of secondary care services in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the implementation of local clinical guidelines could improve patient care as well as reduce the cost of low back pain management.
Analysis of Doctor–Patient Relationship in Post-COVID-19 Period: Perspective Differences Between Citizen and Medical Staff
Authors: Hu Lingmin , Bai Lijing , Zhao Shenyu , Lu Renjie
Published: December 2021

To evaluate the current views on doctor–patient relationship (DPR) between citizens and medical staff in post-Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) period and predict the possible factors of DPR, we distributed questionnaires by a online questionnaire platform--Questionnaire Star (https://www.wjx.cn) to evaluate DPR in post-COVID-19 period. Overall, 312 questionnaires for citizens and 421 questionnaires for medical staff were completed. Citizens felt that service attitude and communication with medical staff, and registering process have been improved. And their trust in doctors has increased by 86.8%. Majority of citizens (66.0%) preferred the tertiary hospitals. If doctor–patient contradictions occurred, 62.9% citizens preferred internal negotiation (with the doctor involved, 44.6%; with hospital management department, 18.3%). There was significant difference of views on the causes of medical violence incidents and the reasons for doctor–patient conflicts in the future between citizens and medical staff. The DPR score of medical staff was lower than citizens at each stage, and even showed a downward tendency in post-COVID-19 period. Furthermore, 20.4% medical staff believed that harmonious DPR would not be maintained, which was distinct from that of the citizens. Combating the COVID-19 provided an important opportunity to improve the DPR. However, unbalanced allocation of high-quality medical resources, gap between the actual treatment efficacy and patient’s expectation, fairness and efficiency issues, financial conflicts, and medical information symmetry were still the influencing factors of DPR.
Process-Outcome Relationships and Solution-Based Goal-Setting Interventions With Grandparent Caregivers
Authors: Hayslip Bert , Montoro-Rodriguez Julian , Ramsey Jennifer , Jooste Jane L.
Published: December 2021

The present study examines the impact of change processes on outcomes in a solution-based thinking and goal-setting intervention for grandparents raising their grandchildren. We found that across the 6 program sessions there was stability and/or increases in the salience of hypothesized change processes, i.e., hopefulness about the future, solution-based thinking, positive thoughts about one's grandchild, multiple indicators of decisional personal goal-setting regarding one's own well-being and grandchild relationship quality. Indicators of change processes were for the most part, related to both post-program outcomes as well as to pre-post program outcome difference scores. Regression analyses suggested that change processes in many cases partially mediated pre-post primary program outcome scores. These data suggest that how grandmother caregivers think about themselves and their grandchildren and their approach to setting personal goals are key change processes explaining the impact of a solution-based, goal-setting intervention on them.
Enacting Safety and Omitting Gender: Australian Human Rights Scrutiny Processes Concerning Alcohol and Other Drug Laws
Authors: Seear Kate , Mulcahy Sean
Published: December 2021

Global momentum for drug law reform is building. But how might such reform be achieved? Many argue that human rights offer a possible normative framework for guiding such reform. There has been very little research on whether human rights processes can actually achieve such aims, however. This paper responds to this knowledge gap. It explores how one human rights mechanism—the “parliamentary rights scrutiny process”—deals with alcohol and other drugs. We consider how four Australian parliaments scrutinized proposed new laws that would deal with alcohol and other drugs for their human rights “compatibility.” We find that laws that would limit the rights of people who use alcohol and other drugs were routinely seen as justifiable on the basis that alcohol and other drugs were inherently “unsafe.” Crucially, safety was conceptualized in a gender-neutral way, without regard to the potential role of gender, including specific masculinities, in the production of phenomena such as family violence and sexual violence and other public safety problems. Instead, such problems were regularly constituted as consequences, simply, of alcohol or other drug consumption. In making this argument, we build on the pioneering work of David Moore and colleagues (e.g., 2020). Their work asks important questions about how the causes of violence are constituted across different settings, including research and policy. Drawing on ideas from scholars such as Carol Bacchi and John Law, they identify “gendering practices” and “collateral realities” in research and policy on violence, in which the role of men and masculinities are routinely obscured, displaced or rendered invisible. We find similar problems underway within human rights law. In highlighting these gendering practices and collateral realities, we aim to draw attention to the limitations of some human rights processes and the need for more work in this area.
A two-stage classifier switchable aluminum electrolysis fault diagnosis method
Authors: Gao Tianhao , Zhang Ke , Shi Huaitao , Zhao Jinbao , Li Jiejia
Published: December 2021

Traditional aluminum electrolysis fault diagnosis methods have problems such as low accuracy, small forecast advance, and high CPU usage, which make their popularity low in enterprises. Aiming at the above problems, a fault diagnosis method with switchable two-level classifiers is designed. The input data are first judged by the first-level algorithm. If it is determined that there is no fault, the result will be output directly. If it is determined that there is a fault in the electrolytic cell, the data will be transferred to the second-level network for specific fault diagnosis. The first level is based on the Random Forest algorithm with simple structure and good two-class classification effect and is optimized by the improved cuckoo algorithm. The second level is based on an improved DBN-DNN (Deep Belief Neural Network–Deep Neural Network) algorithm, and the training method is given. Experimental results show that this method can switch between different algorithms according to different situations, save computing resources, realize that a computer can monitor multiple electrolytic cells, and reduce investment costs. In addition, the accuracy and forecast advance have been significantly improved, which has promoted the popularization of fault diagnosis systems in aluminum electrolysis enterprises.
Influence of the position of recessed outdoor units and louvre blade angle on the performance of split air conditioners
Authors: Jin Wufeng , Wang Cheng , Jiang Yuebo , Ren Liyue , Choi Bongsoo , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: December 2021

In residential air conditioning systems, outdoor units are often installed in the recesses of building facades and shaded by louvres; however, different unit installation positions and louvre blade angles affect the thermal environment around the outdoor unit and the energy efficiency ratio (EER) of the air conditioner. In this study, the effects of the outdoor unit installation position and louvre blade angle on the EER when a single outdoor unit was installed in a recess were investigated by experiments on a 1.5 hp air conditioner (rated power of the air conditioner is 3.5 kW), and the influence of the spacing and angle between two outdoor units on the air conditioner EER when two outdoor units were installed in the same recess was explored. The results of the research indicate that when a single outdoor unit is installed in the recess, the EER increases with an increase in the distance between the inlet of the outdoor unit and the wall. To meet the three-level standard of air conditioner EERs, the distance between the inlet and wall needs to be greater than 300 mm. The EER first increased and then decreased slowly with the increase in the distance between the outdoor unit outlet and louvre; thus, the distance between the outlet and louvre should not be less than 300 mm. The EER first increased and then decreased with the increase in the blade angle, and thus, the blade angle should not be greater than 20°. When two outdoor units are installed in the same recess, each installation mode, “horizontal installation” (same height and collinear), “perpendicular installation” (same height and perpendicular), “angle installation” (same height and obtuse angle), and “up and down parallel installation” (different heights and parallel), has an optimum installation distance and angle.
Relationship Between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Firefighters
Authors: Angleman Amy J. , Van Hasselt Vincent B. , Schuhmann Bailee B.
Published: December 2021

The impact of occupational stress on first responders has received increased investigative attention in recent years. However, research specifically targeting firefighters and their unique responses to job related stress remains limited. Although cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk has been recognized in firefighters, behavioral and psychological contributions (e.g., posttraumatic stress) have not been adequately examined. The purpose of this study was to: (1) examine the relationship between posttraumatic stress symptoms and CVD risk in firefighters, (2) assess the effects of service time on the relationship, and (3) increase understanding of the manifestations of stress in this population. Participants were 87 firefighters from Special Operations teams. Self-report measures of posttraumatic stress symptoms, health, and length of service were administered. Data from annual physical examinations provided information regarding CVD risk (weight, height, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, physical exercise). Results indicated significant relationships between posttraumatic stress symptomatology and current smoking status, triglyceride levels, and the number of CVD risk factors. Findings suggest that the presence of posttraumatic stress symptoms may influence overall CVD risk and may not be moderated by years of fire service. Implications for behavioral interventions with firefighters are discussed. Suggestions for future research in this area are offered.
CEO Self-Monitoring and Corporate Entrepreneurship: A Moderated Mediation Model of the CEO-TMT Interface
Authors: Chen Jianhong , Simsek Zeki , Liao Yi , Kwan Ho Kwong
Published: December 2021

Focusing on the interface between CEOs and top management teams (TMTs), we argue that CEO self-monitoring positively impacts a firm's pursuit of corporate entrepreneurship through the intervening role of TMT behavioral integration. We additionally argue that the impact becomes stronger as the firm's discretionary slack decreases because decreased slack creates an organizational context more favorable to the influences of both CEO self-monitoring and TMT behavioral integration. Results based on multisource (CEOs and TMTs) and multiwave data from 110 firms support the model and associated hypotheses.
Understanding the Spread of Sustained Employee Volunteering: How Volunteers Influence Their Coworkers’ Moral Identity Work
Authors: Gill Michael J.
Published: December 2021

Employee volunteering has become a common phenomenon in many organizations. However, it is unclear how sustained volunteering spreads between colleagues. Drawing on an empirical study set in the English legal profession, this study examines the processes through which existing employee volunteers influence their coworkers to internalize a volunteer identity. The study yields a theoretical model that specifies how coworkers may identify existing volunteers as moral exemplars. Five forms of social influence emanate, often unknowingly, from these exemplars: encouraging, evoking, edifying, enacting, and exemplifying. These forms of social influence inform coworkers’ microprocess of moral identity work through which they claim a volunteer identity. This study thereby shifts attention from the well-theorized outcomes of moral identities to the largely unexamined social influences on moral identities in the workplace, enriching our understanding of the development of the moral self that is foundational to theories of volunteering and identity.
Implementation and Practice of Deep Learning-Based Instance Segmentation Algorithm for Quantification of Hepatic Fibrosis at Whole Slide Level in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Hwang Ji-Hee , Kim Hyun-Ji , Park Heejin , Lee Byoung-Seok , Son Hwa-Young , Kim Yong-Bum , Jun Sang-Yeop , Park Jong-Hyun , Lee Jaeku , Cho Jae-Woo
Published: December 2021

Exponential development in artificial intelligence or deep learning technology has resulted in more trials to systematically determine the pathological diagnoses using whole slide images (WSIs) in clinical and nonclinical studies. In this study, we applied Mask Regions with Convolution Neural Network (Mask R-CNN), a deep learning model that uses instance segmentation, to detect hepatic fibrosis induced by N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in Sprague-Dawley rats. From 51 WSIs, we collected 2011 cropped images with hepatic fibrosis annotations. Training and detection of hepatic fibrosis via artificial intelligence methods was performed using Tensorflow 2.1.0, powered by an NVIDIA 2080 Ti GPU. From the test process using tile images, 95% of model accuracy was verified. In addition, we validated the model to determine whether the predictions by the trained model can reflect the scoring system by the pathologists at the WSI level. The validation was conducted by comparing the model predictions in 18 WSIs at 20× and 10× magnifications with ground truth annotations and board-certified pathologists. Predictions at 20× showed a high correlation with ground truth ( R 2 = 0.9660) and a good correlation with the average fibrosis rank by pathologists ( R 2 = 0.8887). Therefore, the Mask R-CNN algorithm is a useful tool for detecting and quantifying pathological findings in nonclinical studies.
Invasive cardiac aspergillosis as contiguous infiltration from mediastinum: Imaging evaluation using cardiac MRI
Authors: Sharma Arun , Choudhury Shayeri Roy , Bahl Ajay , Nahar Uma , Singhal Manphool
Published: December 2021

Invasive cardiac aspergillosis is a rare, potentially fatal disease which poses a significant diagnostic challenge. Combination of clinical details, imaging features, fungal markers, serology and fungal isolation with demonstration of invasion is usually necessary to establish the diagnosis. High index of suspicion is the key for early diagnosis with potential role of cardiac MRI in its early detection, delineation of extent of involvement and guidance to the appropriate site for tissue sampling, thereby allowing for improved prognosis with early institution of appropriate therapy.
Presidential Profanity in Duterte's Philippines: How Swearing Discursively Constructs a Populist Regime
Authors: Montiel Cristina Jayme , Uyheng Joshua , de Leon Nmanuel
Published: December 2021

Swearing in public discourse represents a contentious rhetorical feature of populist leaders’ transgressive politics. This paper argues that, beyond constituting merely “offensive” speech, swearing generatively accomplishes a host of discursive functions which contribute to the fortification of a populist regime. Taking populist President Duterte of the Philippines as a case in point, we utilize a critical text analytics approach to examine his use of profane language across a corpus of 746 of his public speeches. We find that Duterte discursively harnesses swear words to: (a) affirm vernacular identities with hostile humor, (b) claim outsider virtues against corrupt institutions, and (c) marshal insider force as the nation's sovereign leader. Swearing thus represents a rich discursive resource for populist leaders to navigate their contradictory positions as insiders and outsiders to political power, toward both public endearment and coercion of the nation's people. Our findings suggest the importance of critically examining language in relation to collective-level phenomena like populism and the utility of mixed methods approaches for enriching global psychologies of politics and language.
Egyptian pregnant women's health information needs and behaviour: A qualitative study
Authors: Mansour Essam
Published: December 2021

The primary goal of this research is to examine Egyptian pregnant women's health information needs and behaviour in terms of their thoughts, perceptions, attitudes, motives, interests, techniques, preferences, tools, and other factors that influence their use of health information. Six focus groups with an effective size of 64 women were used in a qualitative approach. Approximately two-thirds of the Egyptian pregnant women sampled in this study were between the ages of 26 and 35, had a Bachelor's degree (BA), and were classified as upper-middle income. Approximately two-thirds of the pregnant Egyptian women sampled were able to precisely identify these needs and use appropriate means to meet them. Many of them preferred to communicate with their families, relatives, peers, and friends, particularly those who are currently pregnant or have recently delivered, via cell phones or inperson meetings. Verbal communication with mothers and relatives, friends, as well as gynaecologists and healthcare providers have been identified as the most commonly used communication channels. Pregnant Egyptian women surveyed used health information sources to assist with pregnancy-related tasks such as understanding the requirements for monitoring the foetus's health, nutrition, weight, growth, and movement, and finding suitable and affordable birthplaces. The majority of them have used a variety of technologies for day-to-day communication, particularly cell phones, the Internet, social media, and social networking sites such as WhatsApp and Facebook. Because of the difficulties associated with pregnancy, many pregnant women have stated that using any type of library to meet their health information needs plays no significant role. The most significant barriers encountered by Egyptian pregnant women in this study were a lack of time, a lack of money, and a lack of knowledge about appropriate sources of information.
Using advance and emergency care plans during transfer decisions: A grounded theory interview study with care home staff
Authors: Harrad-Hyde Fawn , Armstrong Natalie , Williams Chris
Published: December 2021

Background:

Advance care planning has been identified as one of few modifiable factors that could reduce hospital transfers from care homes. Several types of documents may be used by patients and clinicians to record these plans. However, little is known about how plans are perceived and used by care home staff at the time of deterioration.

Aim:

To describe care home staff experiences and perceptions of using written plans during in-the-moment decision-making about potential resident hospital transfers.

Design:

Qualitative semi-structured interviews analysed using the Straussian approach to grounded theory.

Setting/participants:

Thirty staff across six care homes (with and without nursing) in the East and West Midlands of England.

Results:

Staff preferred (in principle) to keep deteriorating residents in the care home but feared that doing so could lead to negative repercussions for them as individuals, especially when there was perceived discordance with family carers’ wishes. They felt that clinicians should be responsible for these plans but were happy to take a supporting role. At the time of deterioration, written plans legitimised the decision to care for the resident within the home; however, staff were wary of interpreting broad statements and wanted plans to be detailed, specific, unambiguous, technically ‘correct’, understood by families and regularly updated.

Conclusions:

Written plans provide reassurance for care home staff, reducing concerns about personal and professional risk. However, care home staff have limited discretion to interpret plans and transfers may occur if plans are not specific enough for care home staff to use confidently.
Risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia in trauma patients with torso injury: a retrospective single-center study
Authors: Lee Jin Young , Sul Young Hoon , Kim Se Heon , Ye Jin Bong , Lee Jin Suk , Choi Hanlim , Yoon Su Young , Choi Jung Hee
Published: December 2021

Objective

We aimed to identify the risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia in patients admitted to critical care after a torso injury.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 178 patients with torso injury aged >15 years who were intubated in the emergency room and placed on a mechanical ventilator after intensive care unit (ICU) admission, survived for >48 hours, had thoracic and/or abdominal injuries, and had no end-stage renal disease. We compared clinico-laboratory variables between ventilator-associated pneumonia (n = 54, 30.3%) and non-ventilator-associated pneumonia (n = 124, 69.7%) groups. Risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Ventilator-associated pneumonia was associated with a significantly longer stay in the ICU (11.3 vs. 6.8 days) and longer duration of mechanical ventilation (7 vs. 3 days). Injury Severity Score (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.048; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.008–1.090), use of vasopressors (AOR: 2.541; 95% CI: 1.121–5.758), and insertion of a nasogastric tube (AOR: 6.749; 95% CI: 2.397–18.999) were identified as independent risk factors of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Conclusion

Ventilator-associated pneumonia in patients with torso injury who were admitted to the ICU was highly correlated with Injury Severity Score, use of vasopressors, and insertion of a nasogastric tube.
Effect of glutathione S-transferase gene polymorphisms on semen quality in patients with idiopathic male infertility
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , He Jun , Zhao Yili , Wu Qifei , Zou Tiejun , Sun Jianhua , Zhu Haitao , Wang Xinyang , Sun Fa , Xing Junping , Tang Kaifa
Published: December 2021

Objective

To investigate the relationship between glutathione S-transferase enzyme ( GSTM1, T1, and P1) genetic variants and semen quality in men with idiopathic infertility.

Methods

Sperm characteristics were measured using computer-assisted sperm analysis. The malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) activities were detected by spectroscopic analysis, and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

This study included 246 idiopathic infertile men and 117 controls. The GSTM1(−), T1(−), and M1/T1(−/−) genotype frequencies significantly differed between the groups. The GSTM1(−) and T1(−) genotypes in idiopathic infertile men negatively correlated with sperm concentration, motility, mitochondrial membrane potential, and other parameters. However, these genotypes positively correlated with the amplitude of the lateral head displacement and NO and 8-OHdG levels. The GSTT1(−) genotype positively correlated with mean angular displacement and MDA activity. GSTM1(−) and T1(−) had a synergistic effect on semen quality. Sperm motility, normal morphology, straightness, and TAC were lower and amplitude of lateral head displacement and MDA were higher in the GSTP1(A/G + G/G) group than in the GSTP1(A/A) group among men with idiopathic infertility.

Conclusions

GSTM1, T1, and P1 genetic variants may be risk factors for infertility by affecting the semen quality men with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia.
Unordinary: An evaluation of lecture-free activities using a repertory grid
Authors: Osgood Libby (Elizabeth)
Published: December 2021

Lecture-free activities afford students with an engaging approach to knowledge acquisition and integration. When peppered throughout a course, experiential activities inject spontaneity, break up familiar patterns, and empower students to take responsibility of their learning. For an instructor, iteration is required to develop effective lecture-free engineering activities, necessitating thoughtful evaluation. The paper adopts Kelly's personal constructs theory, using repertory grid analysis to consider the effectiveness of six unordinary, lecture-free activities. Through a structured comparison of activities, 29 constructs were elicited with inherently subjective, dichotomous poles. The grid was populated ranking each activity between the poles of each construct such as directed learning or creative expression. Using a cluster analysis and descriptive statistics, various themes emerged revealing the author's preference, and connections between seemingly unrelated constructs such as how summative actives use the entire building whereas formative activities are in the classroom. Recommendations are made to generalize the tool to aid instructors in activity evaluation and development through understanding and challenging existing patterns.