bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Fully Compressible Nonhydrostatic Deep-Atmosphere Equations Solver for MPAS
Authors: Skamarock William C. , Ong Hing , Klemp Joseph B.
Published: December 2020

A solver for the nonhydrostatic deep-atmosphere equations of motion is described that extends the capabilities of the Model for Prediction Across Scales-Atmosphere (MPAS-A) beyond the existing shallow-atmosphere equations solver. The discretization and additional terms within this extension maintain the C-grid staggering, hybrid height vertical coordinate, and spherical centroidal Voronoi mesh used by MPAS, and also preserve the solver’s conservation properties. Idealized baroclinic wave test results, using Earth-radius and reduced-radius sphere configurations, verify the correctness of the solver and compare well with published results from other models. For these test cases, the time evolution of the maximum horizontal wind speed, and the total energy and its components, are presented as additional solution metrics that may allow for further discrimination in model comparisons. The test case solutions are found to be sensitive to the configuration of dissipation mechanisms in MPAS-A, and many of the differences among models in previously published test case solutions appear to arise because of their differing dissipation configurations. For the deep-atmosphere reduced-radius sphere test case, small-scale noise in the numerical solution was found to arise from the analytic initialization that contains unstable lapse rates in the tropical lower troposphere. By adjusting a parameter in this initialization, the instability is removed and the unphysical large-scale overturning no longer occurs. Inclusion of the deep-atmosphere capability in the MPAS-A solver increases the dry dynamics cost by less than 5% on CPU-based architectures, and configuration of either the shallow- or deep-atmosphere equations is controlled by a simple switch.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Paclitaxel-Eluting Balloon Catheter
Authors: Sanchez-Perez Ignacio , Abellan-Huerta Jose , Jurado-Roman Alfonso , Lopez-Lluva Maria T. , Pinilla-Echeverri Natalia , Perez-Diaz Pedro , Piqueras-Flores Jesus , Lozano-Ruiz-Poveda Fernando
Published: December 2020

Drug-eluting balloons currently constitute a therapeutic tool used in percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Long-term results remain unknown. We evaluated the prognosis of PCI using a second generation paclitaxel-eluting balloon (PEB) in real-world patients. We included all PCI with PEB in de novo or in-stent restenosis coronary lesions performed in our unit from March 2009 to March 2019. We assessed the composite of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) rate after a median follow-up of 42 months. Consecutive patients (n = 320) with 386 lesions were included; 46.9% presented with stable angina and 53.1% acute coronary syndromes; 52.6% of the lesions were in-stent restenosis and 47.3% de novo lesions with a mean diameter of 2.4 ± 0.5 mm. A bare metal stent was implanted in 6.7% and a drug-eluting stent in 8.5% of patients. The MACE rate was 8%: 10 (2.6%) cardiovascular deaths, 13 (3.4%) myocardial infarctions, and 16 (4.1%) target lesion revascularization. The all-cause death rate was 5.2%. No cases of thrombosis were recorded. In conclusion, PEB was a safe and effective tool to treat in-stent restenosis and de novo coronary lesions, especially small vessel disease, during long-term follow-up.
The Role of Culture and Caregivers’ Formal Education for Babies’ Learning Environments: The Case of Two Costa Rican Communities
Authors: Aschemeyer Frederike , Rosabal-Coto Mariano , Storm Sina , Keller Heidi
Published: December 2020

The aim of our study was to explore young children’s social and learning environments in contexts that are different from the predominant Western lifestyle. We expected different cultural groups, both living in Costa Rica, to provide their 6- to 18-months old children with different learning environments. Our sample consisted of 26 Bribri families and 24 Guanacastecan families. To test the impact of formal education we additionally divided the whole sample into a higher schooling sample (18 families; at least one parent had completed secondary school) and a lower schooling sample (32 families). We used a multi method design including interviews, questionnaires and spot observations and analyzed the data following the qualitative approach of thematic analysis. Additional chi-square tests showed that Guanacastecan caregivers and caregivers from families with higher formal education provide their children with a more distal socialization style (verbal and object-centered behavior). Caregivers from families with lower formal education engage more in proximal behavior (primary care, body contact, and stimulation). Bribri families also put more emphasis on interdependence-oriented socialization goals. Guanacastecan caregivers highlighted independence-oriented socialization goals. Our study confirms socialization strategies and children’s learning environments respectively emphasizing more distal or more proximal experiences and indicates that sociodemographic profiles (especially formal schooling) must be taken into account when studying children’s development across different cultures.
Rethinking food, fortune, and misfortune: Reading Wendell Berry in a time of pandemic
Authors: Moore Scott H.
Published: December 2020

The highly efficient food system produced by industrial agriculture is often thought to be one of the great blessings of modern technology. In a time of pandemic, however, this supposed “good fortune” becomes highly problematic. Using the observation from Boethius that “good fortune corrupts, bad fortune instructs,” I turn to the insights gained from reading Wendell Berry during a time of pandemic. Berry is particularly insightful at helping readers understand how one can overcome the cultural amnesia brought about by our loss of connection with food and farming through the cultivation of a renewed imagination, self-control, and a reinvigorated work ethic.
Transnational education zones: Towards an urban political economy of ‘education cities’
Authors: Kleibert Jana M , Bobée Alice , Rottleb Tim , Schulze Marc
Published: December 2020

Prevalent notions of ‘education cities’ and ‘education hubs’ are vaguely defined, operate at blurry scales and tend to reproduce promotional language. The article contributes to theorising the geographies and spaces of globalising higher education by developing the concept of transnational education zones. Through an urban political economy lens, we review the relations between universities and cities, consider universities’ role in the political economy and understand universities as transnational urban actors. We exhaustively map the phenomenon of transnational education zones and empirically analyse cases from four cities (Doha, Dubai, Iskandar and Flic en Flac) with respect to their embeddedness in state-led projects for the ‘knowledge economy’, their vision for transnational subject formation and their character as urban zones of exception. The conclusion develops a research agenda for further critical geographic inquiries into the (re)making of cities through the development of transnational spaces of higher education that explores the relations between globalising higher education and material and discursive transformations at the urban scale.
Anchoring the social economy at the metropolitan scale: Findings from the Liverpool City Region
Authors: Thompson Matthew , Southern Alan , Heap Helen
Published: December 2020

This article revisits debates on the contribution of the social economy to urban economic development, specifically focusing on the scale of the city region. It presents a novel tripartite definition – empirical, essentialist, holistic – as a useful frame for future research into urban social economies. Findings from an in-depth case study of the scale, scope and value of the Liverpool City Region’s social economy are presented through this framing. This research suggests that the social economy has the potential to build a workable alternative to neoliberal economic development if given sufficient tailored institutional support and if seen as a holistic integrated city-regional system, with anchor institutions and community anchor organisations playing key roles.
Practicing What We Preach: Incorporating Team-Based Learning into the Pre-Service Teaching Curriculum for Improved Outcomes
Authors: Vogler Jane S. , Fu Jun , Finney Emily A.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Prior research has shown that pre-service teachers’ learning of theory is enhanced when teacher educators model the instructional approaches that they advocate as effective.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to compare undergraduate learning outcomes in a course using Team-based Learning (TBL) with those in a traditional, lecture-based approach.

Method:

Occurring across two consecutive semesters, we recruited students ( n = 43) enrolled in an educational psychology course serving primarily pre-service teachers for this quasi-experimental study. In addition to final grades, data sources included responses to essay prompts administered at the beginning and end of the semester, which were qualitatively analyzed and coded.

Results:

Independent samples t-tests showed significant differences in favor of students in the TBL condition for course grades, but not on the final exam. χ2 tests of independence revealed significant differences for two of the seven essay codes, again in favor of TBL.

Conclusion:

These results provide further evidence that when placed in a context that emphasizes collaborative learning, students demonstrate more nuanced understanding and fewer misconceptions.

Teaching Implications:

The opportunity to experience TBL may provide pre-service teachers with better theoretical understanding and an effective model for translating socio-constructive theory into collaborative learning practices.
Colombian Adaptation of the HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections Knowledge Scale (KSI) in an Adolescent Population
Authors: Abello-Luque Daniella , Espada José Pedro , García-Montaño Eileen , Gómez-Lugo Mayra , Morales Alexandra , Pérez-Pedraza Diana , Vallejo-Medina Pablo
Published: December 2020

Colombia has one of the highest rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and teenage pregnancies among Latin American countries. Knowledge about HIV/AIDS and other STIs has been identified as a factor in promoting healthy sexual behavior. The HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections Knowledge Scale (KSI) is an instrument created in Spain to assess sexual health knowledge in adolescents. In view of the lack of scales that measure this construct in Colombia, this study aims to culturally adapt and validate the KSI for the Colombian adolescent population. The sample was comprised of 866 adolescent school children (458 females and 408 males) aged between 14 and 19 years ( M = 15.97, SD = 1.36) from 12 schools in the cities of Bogotá (n = 467) and Barranquilla (n = 400). Results showed good item psychometric properties and adequate discrimination and difficulty indices. Factorial analysis confirmed a five-dimensional factor structure. The indicators of validity showed significant correlations with constructs related on theoretical grounds. In sum, the study presents a valid and reliable scale for evaluating knowledge about HIV and other STIs in Colombian adolescent population.
Farm Animal-derived Models of the Intestinal Epithelium: Recent Advances and Future Applications of Intestinal Organoids
Authors: Seeger Bettina
Published: December 2020

Farm animals play an important role in translational research as large animal models of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The mechanistic investigation of zoonotic diseases of the GI tract, in which animals can act as asymptomatic carriers, could provide important information for therapeutic approaches. In veterinary medicine, farm animals are no less relevant, as they can serve as models for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of GI diseases in the target species. However, farm animal-derived cell lines of the intestinal epithelium are rarely available from standardised cell banks and, in addition, are not usually specific for certain sections of the intestine. Immortalised porcine or bovine enterocytic cell lines are more widely available, compared to goat or sheep-derived cell lines; no continuous cell lines are available from the chicken. Other epithelial cell types with intestinal section-specific distribution and function, such as goblet cells, enteroendocrine cells, Paneth cells and intestinal stem cells, are not represented in those cell line-based models. Therefore, intestinal organoid models of farm animal species, which are already widely used for mice and humans, are gaining importance. Crypt-derived or pluripotent stem cell-derived intestinal organoid models offer the possibility to investigate the mechanisms of inter-cell or host–pathogen interactions and to answer species-specific questions. This review is intended to give an overview of cell culture models of the intestinal epithelium of farm animals, discussing species-specific differences, culture techniques and some possible applications for intestinal organoid models. It also highlights the need for species-specific pluripotent stem cell-derived or crypt-derived intestinal organoid models for promotion of the Three Rs principles ( replacement, reduction and refinement).
The determinants of the intensity of home-based informal care among cancer patients in receipt of home-based palliative care
Authors: Cai Jiaoli , Zhang Li , Guerriere Denise , Coyte Peter C
Published: December 2020

Background:

Understanding the determinants of the intensity of informal care may assist policy makers in the identification of supports for informal caregivers. Little is known about the utilization of informal care throughout the palliative care trajectory.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to analyze the intensity and determinants of the use of informal care among cancer patients over the palliative care trajectory.

Design:

This was a longitudinal, prospective cohort design conducted in Canada. Regression analysis using instrumental variables was applied.

Setting/participants:

From November 2013 to August 2017, a total of 273 caregivers of cancer patients were interviewed biweekly over the course of the care recipient’s palliative care trajectory. The outcome was the number of hours of informal care provided by unpaid caregivers, that is, hours of informal care.

Results:

The number of hours of informal care increased as patients approached death. Home-based nursing care complemented, and hence, increased the provision of informal care. Patients living alone and caregivers who were employed were associated with the provision of fewer hours of informal care. Spousal caregivers provided more hours of informal care. Patient’s age, sex, and marital status, and caregiver’s age, sex, marital status, and education were associated with the number of hours of informal care.

Conclusions:

The intensity of informal care was determined by predisposing, enabling, and needs-based factors. This study provides a reference for the planning and targeting of supports for the provision of informal care.
Application of near-infrared fluorescent cholangiography using indocyanine green in laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Wang Chusi , Peng Wenguang , Yang Jiarui , Li Yuxuan , Yang Jiawei , Hu Xueqiao , Xia Long , Zhang Lei , Zhong Yuesi , Qiao Liang , Pan Weidong
Published: December 2020

Objective

Near-infrared fluorescence cholangiography (NIRF-C) can help to identify the bile duct during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This retrospective study was performed to investigate the effect of NIRF-C in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent NIRF-C-assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomy (n = 34) or conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy (n = 36) were enrolled in this study. Identification of biliary structures, the operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

Results

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was completed in all patients without conversion to laparotomy. The median operation time and intraoperative blood loss were not significantly different between the two groups. No intraoperative injuries or postoperative complications occurred in either group. In the NIRF-C group, the visualization rate of the cystic duct, common bile duct, and common hepatic duct prior to dissection was 91%, 79%, and 53%, respectively. The success rate of cholangiography was 100% in the NIRF-C group. NIRF-C was more effective for visualizing biliary structures in patients with a BMI of <25 than >25 kg/m2.

Conclusions

NIRF-C is a safe and effective technique that enables real-time identification of the biliary anatomy during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. NIRF-C helps to improve the efficiency of dissection.
An alternative method of teaching the mechanics of bulk metal forming to undergraduates: Newtonian and Lagrangian approaches
Authors: Bhattacharyya Abhijit , Payne Scott WT , RoyChoudhury Palash , Schueller John K
Published: December 2020

An alternative method of teaching the mechanics of bulk metal forming to undergraduate students is presented. This method has been practiced by us at the University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA, and at Mahindra University, Hyderabad, India. Certain key factors differentiate it from the procedures employed in standard textbooks. The relevant fundamental background is laid, emphasizing the materials science and solid mechanics aspects that govern the analysis of all bulk metal forming operations. In this unique approach, we avoid usage of empirical expressions completely and analyse processes from first principles. At the same time, we refrain from rigorous mathematical descriptions which may distract the undergraduate engineering student. Using both the energy balance (Lagrangian) and the force balance (Newtonian) methods, we analyse representative bulk forming processes. An illustrative example enables students to appreciate the comparative orders of magnitude of specific forces encountered in different processes. We present tested methods that helped students to appreciate the ease with which a large number of seemingly unrelated processes can be understood and analyzed. We have used this presentation as the standalone lecture material while teaching the topic. It has helped students to avoid the burden of using multiple reference textbooks to gain an understanding of the mechanics of bulk forming processes.
The effects of urbanization on vegetation conditions in coastal zone of China
Authors: Huang Baoying , Li Zhijian , Dong Chengcheng , Zhu Zaichun , Zeng Hui
Published: December 2020

Vegetation in urban settings is heavily altered by anthropogenic impacts. However, the impacts of urbanization on vegetation are not well understood. Here, we quantified the impacts of urbanization on vegetation in 48 Chinese coastal cities and explored their dynamic characteristics from 1990 to 2015. The indirect impacts of urbanization on vegetation at different spatial and temporal scales were also determined. Remote-sensing-based results indicated that vegetation conditions decreased significantly as the proportion of built-up land increased. However, the difference between the observed decline trend and the theoretical one means that urbanization in most coastal areas promoted vegetation growth. Except vegetation loss from land changes, there had been positive indirect effects of urbanization on vegetation conditions at several scales in coastal areas across the study period. These positive indirect impacts are attributed to the balances between vegetation restoration and management, the deterioration of plants’ living conditions, and urban microclimate. Due to Chinese environmental actions over 25 years, the number of cities with a positive indirect impact increased. Our study might enhance the systematic understanding of the response of vegetation to urbanization in China.
‘Forest Conservation without Conservancy’: A Study on the Strategic Aspects of the Inner Line Reserve in Colonial Assam
Authors: Bhattacharjee Srijani
Published: December 2020

The article tries to understand how forest conservation in colonial Assam was used to facilitate British political administration in the region. It highlights on the Inner Line Forest Reserve situated in the frontier region of Lushai Hills and the Cachar district of the province that was established more with the purpose to protect the tea gardens of Cachar from Lushai raids than with any plans of forest conservation. ‘Inner Line’ was the name given to this buffer forest zone as it served the purposes of Inner Line Regulation than any conditions of colonial forest administration in India. The article has attempted to trace the background of Inner Line Regulation in the region and its implementation in the hill areas of the territory. It endeavours to understand why the application of colonial forest administration in Lushai Hills was kept at its minimum level. The article tries to comprehend that the creation of Inner Line Reserve was another British management mechanism to tackle the tribes of Lushai Hills.
Book review: Chhanda Chatterjee, The Sikh Minority and the Partition of the Punjab, 1920–1947
Authors: Tuteja K.L.
Published: December 2020

Chhanda Chatterjee, The Sikh Minority and the Partition of the Punjab, 1920–1947. New Delhi: Manohar, 2019, 233 pp., ₹1095, ISBN: 9788193779477.
Survivors of Acute Lung Injury Have Greater Impairments in Strength and Exercise Capacity Than Survivors of Other Critical Illnesses as Measured Shortly After ICU Discharge
Authors: Mackney Jennifer , Harrold Meg , Jenkins Sue , Fehlberg Rachel , Thomas Lauren , Havill Ken , Jacques Angela , Hill Kylie
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

To compare the physical function on ICU discharge in adults who survived an ICU admission for acute lung injury (ALI) with those admitted for a critical illness other than ALI.

Materials and Methods:

Two groups were recruited, (i) those who survived an ICU admission for ALI and, (ii) those who survived an ICU admission for a critical illness other than ALI. Within 7 days of discharge from ICU, in all participants, measures were collected of peripheral muscle strength, balance, walking speed and functional exercise capacity.

Results:

Recruitment was challenging and ceased prior to achieving the desired sample size. Participants with ALI (n = 22) and critical illness (n = 33) were of similar median age (50 vs. 57 yr, p = 0.09), sex proportion (males %, 45 vs. 58, p = 0.59) and median APACHE II score (21.5 vs. 23.0, p = 0.74). Compared with the participants with critical illness, those with ALI had lower hand grip (mean ± SD, 18 ± 9 vs. 13 ± 8 kg, p = 0.018) and shoulder flexion strength (10 ± 4 vs. 7 ± 3 kg, p = 0.047), slower 10-meter walk speed (median [IQR], 1.03 [0.78 to 1.14] vs. 0.78 [0.67 to 0.94] m/s, p = 0.039) and shorter 6-minute walk distance (265 [71 to 328] vs. 165 [53 to 220] m, p = 0.037). The Berg balance scores were similar in both groups.

Conclusions:

Compared with survivors of a critical illness that is not ALI, those with ALI are likely to have greater physical impairment when measured shortly after discharge to the ward.
Non-invasive monitoring method for lower-leg compartment syndrome using a wireless sensor system and finite element analysis
Authors: Chang Fuh-Yu , Teng Ping-Tun , Chen Liang-Chun
Published: December 2020

In this study, a non-invasive pressure monitoring system that is portable and convenient was designed for detecting compartment syndrome. The system combines a wireless module and smartphone, which aids in the achievement of mHealth objectives, specifically, the continuous monitoring of the compartment pressure in patients. A compartment syndrome detecting method using a wireless sensor system and finite element analysis is developed and verified with an in vitro lower-leg model by rapid prototyping. The sensor system is designed to measure a five point pressure variation from the outside of the lower leg and transmit the data to a smartphone via Bluetooth. The analysis model based on the finite element method is employed to calculate the change of pressure and volume inside the four compartments of the lower leg. The in vitro experimental results show that the non-invasive detecting method can monitor the compartment pressure and provide a warning for the occurrence of compartment syndrome if the compartment pressure is higher than 30 mmHg. Furthermore, the theoretical simulation of the real lower leg shows similar trends to those of the in vitro experiments and can promptly detect the occurrence of compartment syndrome. Measured pressure values exceeding 6.3, 2.7, and 2.8 kPa for the three sensors contacting the outside centers of the superficial posterior, anterior, and lateral compartments, respectively, can indicate that each compartment contains a pressure higher than 30 mmHg. These results can provide a warning for the risk of compartment syndrome of each compartment. In addition, the measured values from the three sensors contacting the superficial posterior compartment at the outside center, close to the tibia, and close to the lateral compartment exceeding 1.8, 0.7, and 0.7 kPa, respectively, can indicate the risk of deep posterior compartment syndrome.
Prevalence and predicting factors of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease diagnosed by transient elastography with controlled attenuation parameters in HIV-positive people
Authors: Jongraksak Tanawat , Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee , Jatchavala Janjira , Warodomwichit Daruneewan , Kaewduang Piyaporn , Sungkanuparph Somnuek
Published: December 2020

Metabolic disorders are increasing in people living with HIV (PLWH), and metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become a common complication. A cross-sectional study was conducted in HIV-positive persons receiving anti-retroviral therapy (ART), in order to determine the prevalence and predicting factors of MAFLD in PLWH. All participants underwent bioelectrical impedance analysis, ultrasonography, and transient elastography with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). MAFLD was defined as CAP ≥248 dB/m. Significant fibrosis was defined when liver stiffness measurement >7.0 kPa. Predicting factors of MAFLD were determined using logistic regression analysis. Of 150 participants, 48 (32.0%) had MAFLD. Significant fibrosis was diagnosed in 5 (10.4%) participants in the MAFLD group. Blood pressure, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), percentage of fat, serum transaminases, HbA1c, LDL, and triglycerides levels were significantly higher in the MAFLD group ( p < 0.05). High BMI [odds ratio (OR) 1.596; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.336–1.907, p < 0.001], triglycerides level >150 mg/dl [OR 3.722; 95% CI, 1.508–9.187, p < 0.004], and advanced age [OR 1.076; 95% CI, 1.017–1.139, p < 0.011] were associated with MAFLD in the multivariate analysis. MAFLD is common in PLWH receiving ART, while significant fibrosis is relatively infrequent. High BMI, age, and triglycerides level are the predicting factors of MAFLD in PLWH.
Lukewarm or enthusiastic supporters? Exploring union member attitudes towards social investment and compensatory policy
Authors: Bledow Nona , Busemeyer Marius R
Published: December 2020

Although social investment has become an increasingly important topic in the welfare policy discourse, reform efforts are stalling in many contexts. We examine whether labour unions and their members may be one factor contributing to the varying implementation across countries. In particular, we focus on the difference in the policy attitudes of union members and non-members. Using a new comparative survey, we investigate how union member attitudes toward social investment and classic compensatory policy differ from those of non-members, and how these differences vary across countries. We find that union members appear to be lukewarm supporters: even though union members are generally supportive of social investment policies, they tend to support compensatory policies even more. We also find cross-national variation in these associations, for which we provide some tentative explanations.
Impact of Electronic Word of Mouth on Customers’ Buying Intention Considering Trust as a Mediator: A SEM Approach
Authors: Mahmud Md. Shahed , Islam Md. Nazmul , Ali Md. Rostam , Mehjabin Nadia
Published: December 2020

For customers’ purchasing decisions, word of mouth (WOM) has been considered as one of the major influential factors. With the rise of Internet-based technology and usage of online-based devices, customers are now considering online reviews and other users’ e-opinions as one of the significant sources of information gathering for taking final purchasing decisions. Organizations also emphasize electronic word of mouth (eWOM) as a major promotional tool for their business. This study aims to examine the impact of eWOM on customers’ buying intention and tries to determine the mediating relationship of trust between eWOM and customers’ buying intention. For this, an exploratory study has been designed using the purposive and convenience sampling technique. With the assistance of a self-administrated structured questionnaire, a total of 218 respondents’ data were finally selected for the structural equation model (SEM) analysis. The result of the study reveals that eWOM has a direct influence on customers’ intention to buy without the presence of the mediator trust. Nevertheless, with the presence of trust as a mediator, the direct relationship gets weakened, resulting in full mediation. The study results can contribute both theoretically and practically in many ways.
INFLUENZA: A Board Game Design Experiment on Vaccination
Authors: Neves Pedro Pinto , Luz Filipe , Vital Eva , Oliveira Jorge
Published: December 2020

Introduction.

Experts on vaccine hesitancy recommend tailoring interventions to local contexts, which presents an opportunity for game-based interventions to reflect local demographics and make them central to the experience of the game. Experimental game design is a research method that has already been used in educational games. Board games are relevant to the topic of vaccination, and present possibilities for game design of openness and flexibility. INFLUENZA was an experimental game design with the objectives of designing a vaccination-themed educational board game where: an aspect of local context was highly-relevant but also easily modifiable, means of emotional engagement were explored, and openness and flexibility in board game design were explored.

Methods.

The experimental game design study consisted of finding design solutions for achieving the study objectives in a single game, by analyzing comparable games and using iteration and two stages of live testing with players.

Results.

The game reflects national census data in a highly-relevant but also easily modifiable aspect of play (first objective). The game features aspects of personification to foster emotional engagement (second objective). The game is well-suited to changing the number of players, or allowing mediated play (third objective).

Discussion.

INFLUENZA has achieved each of its study objectives from an experimental game design perspective. Relevant features of educational games are theme, mechanics, and their integration, and the design experimentation in INFLUENZA follows this trend. Future work is running comparative trials of features of INFLUENZA, as well as measuring the impact of different local adaptations of INFLUENZA.
“It’s Not Macho, Is It?”: Contemporary British Christian Men’s Constructions of Masculinity
Authors: Nyhagen Line
Published: December 2020

Religion is a key site for constructions of masculinity, and visions of a gender equal society must include religious men. This study examines how a group of British white, heterosexual, middle-class, lay Anglican men construct masculinities via discourses on church-going, worship styles, and godly submission. The interviewed men express a hybrid form of masculinity, informed by religious faith, that embraces typically “feminine” characteristics such as love, humility, and vulnerability. At the same time, they articulate ideals of heteronormativity and essentialized gender differences that support hegemonic masculinity. The participants engage simultaneously in a selective, “discursive distancing” from, and a discursive alignment with, hegemonic masculinity norms, thus revealing tensions between competing masculinity norms.
Effect of Mini-invasive Floating Metatarsal Osteotomy on Plantar Pressure in Patients With Diabetic Plantar Metatarsal Head Ulcers
Authors: Tamir Eran , Tamar Michael , Ayalon Moshe , Koren Shlomit , Shohat Noam , Finestone Aharon S.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Distal metatarsal osteotomy has been used to alleviate plantar pressure caused by anatomic deformities. This study’s purpose was to examine the effect of minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy on plantar pressure in patients with diabetic metatarsal head ulcers.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective case series of prospectively collected data on 32 patients with diabetes complicated by plantar metatarsal head ulcers without ischemia. Peak plantar pressure and pressure time integrals were examined using the Tekscan MatScan prior to surgery and 6 months following minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy. Patients were followed for complications for at least 1 year.

Results:

Peak plantar pressure at the level of the osteotomized metatarsal head decreased from 338.1 to 225.4 kPa ( P < .0001). The pressure time integral decreased from 82.4 to 65.0 kPa·s ( P < .0001). All ulcers healed within a mean of 3.7 ± 4.2 weeks. There was 1 recurrence (under a hypertrophic callus of the osteotomy) during a median follow-up of 18.3 months (range, 12.2-27). Following surgery, adjacent sites showed increased plantar pressure and 4 patients developed transfer lesions (under an adjacent metatarsal head); all were managed successfully. There was 1 serious adverse event related to surgery (operative site infection) that resolved with antibiotics.

Conclusion:

This study showed that the minimally invasive floating metatarsal osteotomy successfully reduced local plantar pressure and that the method was safe and effective, both in treatment and prevention of recurrence.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case series of prospectively collected data.
Assessment by Audiences Shows Little Effect of Science Communication Training
Authors: Rubega Margaret A. , Burgio Kevin R. , MacDonald A. Andrew M. , Oeldorf-Hirsch Anne , Capers Robert S. , Wyss Robert
Published: December 2020

As the science community has recognized the vital role of communicating to the public, science communication training has proliferated. The development of rigorous, comparable approaches to assessment of training has not kept pace. We conducted a fully controlled experiment using a semester-long science communication course, and audience assessment of communicator performance. Evaluators scored the communication competence of trainees and their matched, untrained controls, before and after training. Bayesian analysis of the data showed very small gains in communication skills of trainees, and no difference from untrained controls. High variance in scores suggests little agreement on what constitutes “good” communication.
ADHD, Religiosity, and Psychiatric Comorbidity in Adolescence and Adulthood
Authors: Dew Rachel E. , Kollins Scott H. , Koenig Harold G.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

Religiosity has been repeatedly proposed as protective in the development of depression, sociopathy and addictions. ADHD frequently co-occurs with these same conditions. Although ADHD symptoms may affect religious practice, religiosity in ADHD remains unexplored.

Method:

Analyses examined data from >8000 subjects aged 12 to 34 in four waves of the Add Health Study. Relationships of religious variables with childhood ADHD symptoms were statistically evaluated. Observed correlations of ADHD symptoms to depression, delinquency, and substance use were tested for mediation and moderation by religiosity.

Results:

ADHD symptoms correlated with lower levels of all religious variables at nearly all waves. In some analyses at Wave IV, prayer and attendance interacted with ADHD to predict worsened psychopathology.

Conclusion:

ADHD symptoms predicted lower engagement in religious life. In adulthood, some aspects of religiosity interacted with ADHD symptoms to predict worse outcomes. Further research should explore whether lower religiosity partially explains prevalent comorbidities in ADHD.
Saturated Fatty Acid Intake Is Associated With Increased Inflammation, Conversion of Kynurenine to Tryptophan, and Delta-9 Desaturase Activity in Healthy Humans
Authors: Berg Jade , Seyedsadjadi Neda , Grant Ross
Published: December 2020

Saturated fat ingestion has previously been linked to increases in inflammation. However the relationship between saturated fatty acid (SFA) intake and the kynureine:tryptophan ratio ([Kyn]:[Trp]), a marker of inflammation, has not been previously investigated. This study evaluated in healthy, middle aged, individuals (men = 48, women = 52), potential relationships between SFA intake, red blood cell (RBC) membrane SFAs and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), the [Kyn]:[Trp] ratio, C-reactive protein (CRP), TNF-α and Δ9 desaturase activity. [Kyn]:[Trp] was positively associated with increases in Total fat ( P = .034) intake, including Total SFA ( P = .029) and Total MUFA ( P = .042) intakes. Unexpectedly the [Kyn]:[Trp] ratio was inversely associated with the percentage of Total SFA ( P = .004) and positively associated with percentage of Total MUFA ( P = .012) present in the RBC membrane. We found a positive association between Δ9 desaturase activity, responsible for the desaturation of a various SFAs to MUFAs, and [Kyn]:[Trp] ( P = .008). [Kyn]:[Trp] was also positively associated with CRP ( P = .044), however no significant relationship between [Kyn]:[Trp] and TNF-α was found. This study shows for the first time that SFA consumption increases inflammatory pathways linked to increased tryptophan to kynurenine conversion, even in healthy humans. Our data also suggests that SFA linked increases in inflammation occur concomitantly with an upregulation of Δ9 desaturase activity resulting in increased desaturation of SFA substrates to their MUFA derivatives.
Nail Changes in Lichen Planus: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Żychowska Magdalena , Żychowska Małgorzata
Published: December 2020

Background

Lichen planus (LP) is an inflammatory condition that can affect skin, mucous membranes, hair follicles, and/or nails. Nail abnormalities are estimated to occur in around 10% of LP cases. Clinical characteristics of nail involvement have been the subject of very few studies, which have mainly focused on isolated nail LP.

Objectives

To identify and describe nail alterations in patients with LP.

Methods

Seventy-five patients with cutaneous lichen planus (CLP) were included in the study. The diagnosis of LP was histologically confirmed in each case. Onychomycosis was excluded in each patient.

Results

Nail lesions were present in 21 (28%) patients (mean age 58.1 ± 12.55 years) with CLP. On an average, patients had 9.38 nails affected. A slight female preponderance was noted (57%). Nail involvement was independent of age, gender, presence of pruritus, the affected skin area, or the duration of CLP. The most common finding in the fingernails ( n = 122) was longitudinal ridging (85.2%), followed by nail plate thinning (38.2%) and onycholysis (17.2%). Pterygium formation (6.6%) and red lunulae (8.2%) were limited to the fingernails. In the fingernails, matrix involvement (98.4%) was more frequent than nail bed involvement (27%). The most common finding in the toenails ( n = 75) was hyperkeratosis (82.7%) with yellowish discoloration (69.3%). No cases of trachyonychia or anonychia were noted.

Conclusions

Nail abnormalities in patients with CLP may be more common than initially assessed. Rare formation of pterygium and absence of anonychia in patients with predominant cutaneous involvement might point at mild course of the nail disease in such cases.
Is feminism doomed? Feminist praxis in the times of ‘gender ideology’ in Slovakia
Authors: Maďarová Zuzana , Valkovičová Veronika
Published: December 2020

Thirty years after the Velvet Revolution, Slovak feminist activists look back to the 1990s and early 2000s as the time of exceptional capacity building and knowledge production which was barely sustained in later years. The last decade of feminist organizing has been marked by waning financial resources for civil society organizations, and appropriation of feminist and gender equality agenda by the state, which led to the hollowing out of its content. What is more, strong and pervasive conservative pressure with the aid of ‘gender ideology’ rhetoric has been successful in delegitimizing gender equality policies and is consistently threatening sexual and reproductive rights in the country. Facing such prospects, this article examines newfound alliances and diverse forms of broadly understood feminist praxis, which go beyond institutionalized civil society, but have developed to counter neoconservative and far-right political pressure in Slovakia.
Relationship between sluggish cognitive tempo and sleep, psychological, somatic, and cognitive problems and impairment in children with autism and children with ADHD
Authors: Mayes Susan D , Calhoun Susan L , Waschbusch Daniel A
Published: December 2020

Sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) is a topic of renewed interest. Much remains to be learned about its association with symptoms and diagnoses that have received little research attention, particularly sleep disturbance, somatic complaints, and autism. Our study is the first to explore the relationship between SCT and sleep, internalizing, externalizing, somatic, and cognitive problems, impairment, and demographics in large samples of children with autism, ADHD-Combined, and ADHD-Inattentive. Mothers rated 1,436 children with autism and 1,056 with ADHD without autism, 2 to 17 years, on the Pediatric Behavior Scale (PBS). Factor analysis yielded a 6-item SCT factor (sluggish/slow moving/low energy, stares/preoccupied/in own world, tires easily, in a fog/confused, drowsy/sleepy/not alert, and apathetic) plus 10 additional factors. SCT was distinct from but related to several factors and was associated with social and academic impairment. The strongest independent predictors of SCT were depression, sleeping more than normal, cognitive problems, autism, and somatic complaints. Scores on the remaining factors (sleep disturbance, attention deficit, impulsivity, hyperactivity, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, and anxiety) increased explained variance by less than 2%. Findings suggest that SCT is not simply sluggish cognitive tempo, as the name implies, and is a complex construct with behavioral, affective, emotional, cognitive, and somatic components and associations. Given that 49% of children with autism had SCT, SCT symptoms should be considered in all children being evaluated for autism, as well as for ADHD-C and ADHD-I (with SCT percentages of 31% and 40%). Assessing and treating SCT is especially important because of its association with impairment.
Relationship between social education professionals with different levels of education working in institutions for persons with disabilities
Authors: Gulfi Alida , Perriard Valérie
Published: December 2020

Context

Over the past 20 years, the Swiss social work education system has undergone profound transformations, including a multiplication of education levels. In the field of social education, there are now three different levels of diplomas: socio-educational assistant with a Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (SEA), social educator with an Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education (SEH) and social educator with a Bachelor’s degree (SEU). This article investigates the relationship between social education professionals with different levels of diplomas working in institutions for persons with disabilities in French-speaking Switzerland. Fourty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted with employers and professionals regarding the recruitment practices, the division of labour and the collaboration among professionals.

Findings

Our study highlighted a balanced distribution between SEA socio-educational assistants, SEH social educators and SEU social educators within institutions. Two modalities of division of labour were also observed: ‘assimilation’ that makes no differences at a formal level between social education professionals and ‘differentiation’ that involves a distinction between SEA socio-educational assistants and SEH/SEU social educators. Finally, participants underlined a good collaboration between these professionals.

Applications

Both assimilation and differentiation revealed at first sight a divergence between the introduction of three levels in the Swiss social work education system and the reality of the division of labour and the collaboration between SEA socio-educational assistants, SEH social educators and SEU social educators in institutions for persons with disabilities. Considering the recent reforms of social work education as well as the economic and political uncertainties surrounding social institutions in the field of disability, further research is required to examine how the relationship between the three professional profiles evolves.
De-idealising the educational ideal of critical thinking
Authors: Pettersson Henri
Published: December 2020

It is widely recognised among educational theorists, educators and policy makers alike, that critical thinking should claim a superordinate place in our system of educational objectives. In the philosophical literature on this topic, critical thinking is often conceptualised as the educational cognate of rationality, which in turn is analysed as being comprised of the relevant skills and abilities to assess reasons and evidence, together with the intellectual dispositions to actively use these proficiencies in practice. The resulting picture is in many respects normative and idealised, following the style of philosophical theorising commonplace in the tradition of analytic philosophy of education. In contrast, certain recent empirical findings related to the rational performance of actual human beings seem to cast doubts on the extent to which we can expect people to fulfil these idealised normative standards of rationality. After introducing the relevant philosophical theories and psychological results, I ruminate on the implications these ideas have on our pedagogical views pertaining to critical thinking education.
Digital technology use and early reading abilities among bilingual children in Singapore
Authors: Haoning Mah Grace , Hu Xiangqing , Yang Weipeng
Published: December 2020

Singapore has launched a bilingual education policy nationwide, which leads to three main home language environments amongst Chinese families, namely, Chinese dominant, Chinese-English bilingual families and English dominant families. However, little is known about the development of early reading abilities among Singapore children from these family backgrounds. Moreover, against the backdrop of technological advances in the digital age, how the use of digital technology may affect the development of early reading abilities remains understudied. In this study, 225 7-year-old Chinese Singaporean children with different home language environments were recruited from mainstream primary schools in Singapore to complete the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study reading comprehension tests and questionnaires. Evidence revealed that children’s reading ability and digital technology use in Chinese varied across home language environments. Also, the use of digital technology in both English and Chinese positively predicted the reading abilities in both languages respectively for children from English dominant families. The results provide interesting insights into the role of bilingualism and digital technology use in the development of early reading abilities. In view of the results, we also discuss and put forward suggestions on online reading education policy.