bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making Recommendations More Effective Through Framings: Impacts of User- Versus Item-Based Framings on Recommendation Click-Throughs
Authors: Gai Phyliss Jia , Klesse Anne-Kathrin
Published: September 2019

Companies frequently offer product recommendations to customers, according to various algorithms. This research explores how companies should frame the methods they use to derive their recommendations, in an attempt to maximize click-through rates. Two common framings—user-based and item-based—might describe the same recommendation. User-based framing emphasizes the similarity between customers (e.g., “People who like this also like…”); item-based framing instead emphasizes similarities between products (e.g., “Similar to this item”). Six experiments, including two field experiments within a mobile app, show that framing the same recommendation as user-based (vs. item-based) can increase recommendation click-through rates. The findings suggest that user-based (vs. item-based) framing informs customers that the recommendation is based on not just product matching but also taste matching with other customers. Three theoretically derived and practically relevant boundary conditions related to the recommendation recipient, the products, and other users also offer practical guidance for managers regarding how to leverage recommendation framings to increase recommendation click-throughs.
Optimising streptozotocin dosing to minimise renal toxicity and impairment of stomach emptying in male 129/Sv mice
Authors: Nørgaard Sisse A , Søndergaard Henrik , Sørensen Dorte B , Galsgaard Elisabeth D , Hess Constanze , Sand Fredrik W
Published: September 2019

The streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model has been extensively used as a model for diabetes and diabetic nephropathy, but it is still influenced by many off-target toxic effects and large variation in diabetes induction. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare different STZ dosing regimens to optimise animal welfare and minimise unwanted effects of STZ measured by acute renal toxicity, impairment of stomach emptying and weight loss. Male 129/Sv mice were injected with 1 × 50, 1 × 100, 1 × 125, 1 × 150, 1 × 200, 5 × 50, 2 × 100 and 2 × 125 mg/kg STZ or vehicle and euthanized 24 hours after the last injection. All STZ doses were found to induce significant enlargement of the stomach. All multiple doses of STZ increased the albumin:creatinine ratio significantly, and immunohistochemical staining of KIM-1 and Ki-67 was increased by 5 × 50 and 2 × 100 mg/kg STZ. Renal gene expression of Cdkn1a, KIM-1, NGAL and MCP-1 was increased by most of the STZ doses. No difference was found between the double intermediate dose of 2 × 100 mg/kg and the multiple low dose of 5 × 50 mg/kg regarding either stomach enlargement or kidney injury. However, the reduced fasting periods and injections in the 2 × 100 mg/kg STZ group could have lowered the impact on the general condition measured as change in body weight. This shows that the double intermediate dose is a good alternative to the recommended multiple low dose for diabetes induction in these mice. The STZ-induced mouse model has again proven to be a model with large variations affecting both animal welfare and model robustness.
Mothering Behind Bars: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Prison Nursery Programs on Recidivism Reduction
Authors: Dodson Kimberly D. , Cabage LeAnn N. , McMillan Shaina M.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive evidence-based review of evaluation studies of prison nursery programs to determine whether they are effective in reducing recidivism. Seven studies evaluating the effectiveness of prison nursery programs are examined and classified using the Maryland Scientific Methods Scale. The results show some empirical evidence for the capacity of prison nursery programs to reduce recidivism. However, weak methodological research designs and insufficient statistical analyses led us to classify the effectiveness of prison nursery programs as “unknown.” Suggestions for improving the methodological quality of studies examining prison nursery programs and directions for future research are discussed.
Validation of a Chinese Version of the Attitudes Toward Prisoners Scale
Authors: Chui Wing Hong , Cheng Kevin Kwok-yin
Published: September 2019

Using a Hong Kong–sourced sample of participants, this study set out to validate the Chinese version of the Attitudes Toward Prisoners (ATP-C) Scale and evaluate its psychometric properties. To provide further evidence for the ATP-C Scale’s validity, it was then administered to three groups varying in their volunteering experience in Hong Kong. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a four-factor structure that differs from the unidimensional model proposed by the scale developers. Cronbach’s alpha values were satisfactory for all four subscales, and construct validity of the ATP-C Scale was also assessed with a second sample of participants. Implications for the assessment of attitudes toward prisoners away from a one-dimensional spectrum and further directions for cross-cultural studies on related topics are discussed.
Extending the Boundaries of Illegitimate Tasks: The Role of Resources
Authors: Fila Marcus J. , Eatough Erin
Published: September 2019

We replicate several studies that have shown illegitimate tasks to be related to strain above and beyond job demands, but extend previous work by addressing (i) whether they are when accounting for job demands and resources and (ii) whether resources mitigate strain relationships. We separately examine unreasonable and unnecessary task subdimensions. Using hierarchical regression analyses, results show that unreasonable tasks account for additional variance in anxiety (9.9%) and depressive symptoms (7.3%) beyond both main and multiplicative effects of job demands and resources of control, and support from supervisors and coworkers, in 214 early-career employees. In addition, unreasonable tasks, control, and supervisor support interact, such that task unreasonableness is less strongly tied to depressive symptoms for those perceiving high supervisor support; and high levels of control and supervisory support resources buffer links between unreasonable tasks and both outcomes. Unexpectedly, task unreasonableness is unrelated to anxiety for those perceiving low control and supervisor support, suggesting a possible habituation effect under undesirable workplace conditions. No interactive effects are found for unnecessary tasks or for coworker support. Our findings offer new understanding of the construct domain space and dimensionality of illegitimate tasks, and address several important practical and theoretical implications surrounding the role of resources.
Effective Transparency and Institutional Trust in Honduran Municipal Governments
Authors: Estrada Lorenzo , Bastida Francisco
Published: September 2019

This article investigates trust in Honduran Municipal Governments and shows that transparency and municipal services quality impact on trust. We posit the Theory of Effective Transparency: relevant information should be reported; transparency should be based on unbiased information; and municipal data should be comparable with other municipal governments. Municipalities where one political party has an overall majority are trusted more, and audited financial statements generate a positive impact on trust. Engagement and participation also affect trust. As a practical implication, municipal governments should increase trust by involving citizens in municipal issues. Finally, quality of democracy is connected with greater trust.
Possible new method to discriminate effective source rocks in petroliferous basins: A case study in the Tazhong area, Tarim Basin
Authors: Pang Bo , Chen Junqing , Pang Xiongqi , Liu Tuo , Yang Haijun , Li Hui , Wang Yingxun , Hu Tao
Published: September 2019

Sediments with organic matter content (total organic carbon) TOC ≤ 0.5% which can act as effective source rocks are critical and challenging in the field of petroleum geology. A new method is proposed through a case study to identify and evaluate the effective source rocks, which is applied to study the changing characteristic of hydrocarbon-generation potential index with depth. The burial depth corresponding to the beginning of hydrocarbon-generation potential index reduction represents the hydrocarbon expulsion threshold in source rocks. Then, new identification standards are established for discrimination of effective source rocks of Middle–Upper Ordovician in Tarim Basin. The critical value of TOC for effective source rocks change with their burial depth: the TOC > 0.5% with source rock depth > 4000 m, TOC > 0.4% with depth >4500 m, TOC > 0.3% with depth > 5000 m, TOC > 0.2% with depth >5500 m. Based on the new criteria, effective source rocks in the Middle–Upper Ordovician are identified and their total potential hydrocarbon resources is evaluated, reaches 0.68 × 109 t in the Tazhong area, which is 65.4% higher than that of previous studies and consistent with the exploration result. Thus, this new method is of significance to resource evaluation and can be applied in the carbonate source rocks and mudstone source rocks with high degree of exploration.
Successfully Proposing and Composing Review Papers
Authors: Parmigiani Anne , King Eden
Published: September 2019

The Journal of Management has been publishing issues containing review articles for over three decades. This article summarizes recent reviews and provides advice for scholars considering the submission of a review proposal.
‘Another tool in my toolbox’: Training school teaching assistants to use dynamic temporal and tactile cueing with children with childhood apraxia of speech
Authors: Lim Jacqueline , McCabe Patricia , Purcell Alison
Published: September 2019

This study explored the feasibility of training school teaching assistants to provide the treatment, Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing to treat childhood apraxia of speech (CAS, also known as developmental verbal dyspraxia). The study used a single case experimental design across behaviours and a qualitative evaluation of teaching assistant experiences using interviews. Two student-teaching assistant dyads participated. One child was aged 6;2 (6 years 2 months) and the other 5;6 at the time of the study. Both participants had speech characteristics consistent with the features outlined in the 2007 Technical Report on CAS from the American Speech and Language Hearing Association (ASHA). These included lengthened and disrupted coarticulatory transitions between sounds and syllables, inappropriate prosody and inconsistent errors on consonants and vowels. Treatment outcomes were measured using visual analysis and calculations of total-change improvement rate difference (TC-IRD) and composite IRD (C-IRD) based on percent of phonemes correct. Fidelity to the treatment protocol was measured using a Fidelity Score. Visual analysis of both child participant’s data showed an upward trend for all treatment and similar words and a flatter trajectory for control words. Both child participants had a TC-IRD score of 100% for all treatment words. One child also had a TC-IRD score of 100% for their similar words and a TC-score of 25% for their control words. The second child had a TC-score of 67% for similar and control words. Both teaching assistants had a Fidelity Score of over 90%. Both teaching assistants reported positive experiences in conducting the program. Training teaching assistants may be an effective means of providing treatment to children with CAS while they are at school. Training teaching assistants also helps to improve their capacity which may have positive implications in their interactions with other children with speech sound disorders.
Reinforcement learning of motor skills using Policy Search and human corrective advice
Authors: Celemin Carlos , Maeda Guilherme , Ruiz-del-Solar Javier , Peters Jan , Kober Jens
Published: September 2019

Robot learning problems are limited by physical constraints, which make learning successful policies for complex motor skills on real systems unfeasible. Some reinforcement learning methods, like Policy Search, offer stable convergence toward locally optimal solutions, whereas interactive machine learning or learning-from-demonstration methods allow fast transfer of human knowledge to the agents. However, most methods require expert demonstrations. In this work, we propose the use of human corrective advice in the actions domain for learning motor trajectories. Additionally, we combine this human feedback with reward functions in a Policy Search learning scheme. The use of both sources of information speeds up the learning process, since the intuitive knowledge of the human teacher can be easily transferred to the agent, while the Policy Search method with the cost/reward function take over for supervising the process and reducing the influence of occasional wrong human corrections. This interactive approach has been validated for learning movement primitives with simulated arms with several degrees of freedom in reaching via-point movements, and also using real robots in such tasks as “writing characters” and the ball-in-a-cup game. Compared with standard reinforcement learning without human advice, the results show that the proposed method not only converges to higher rewards when learning movement primitives, but also that the learning is sped up by a factor of 4–40 times, depending on the task.
Abnormal expression and clinical significance of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and sFlt-1 in patients with preeclampsia
Authors: Chen Xinhua , Xi Xuxia , Cui Fan , Wen Ming , Hong Aijuan , Hu Zemei , Ni Juan
Published: September 2019

Objective

To determine the association between levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) in patients with preeclampsia.

Methods

Clinical and demographic data were collected from patients with preeclampsia and healthy pregnant controls. Serum 25(OH)D and sFlt-1 levels were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and their correlations were determined using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Associations between serum 25(OH)D and sFlt-1 levels and disease severity and clinical parameters were evaluated.

Results

Significantly lower serum 25(OH)D and higher sFlt-1 levels were observed in patients with preeclampsia ( n = 100) versus controls ( n = 100), and 25(OH)D was inversely correlated with sFlt-1 in patients with preeclampsia. Serum 25(OH)D levels were reduced, while sFlt-1 concentration was increased in patients with severe versus mild preeclampsia. Serum 25(OH)D levels were reduced in late-onset versus early-onset severe preeclampsia. Patients with preeclampsia who had lower serum 25(OH)D or elevated sFlt-1 levels showed significantly higher blood pressure indexes versus those with higher 25(OH)D or lower sFlt-1.

Conclusions

Low serum 25(OH)D and high sFlt-1 may be candidate biomarkers for preeclampsia diagnosis and prognosis.
Combined anesthesia shows better curative effect and less perioperative neuroendocrine disorder than general anesthesia in early stage NSCLC patients
Authors: Pi Jingbo , Sun Yi , Zhang Zhenghong , Wan Chengfu
Published: September 2019

Objectives

We aimed to compare the effects of general anesthesia with combined epidural and general anesthesia in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC).

Methods

Patients scheduled to undergo tumor resection with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy were eligible. Patients in the control group received general anesthesia during surgery, and those in the observation group received combined epidural and general anesthesia. The hemodynamic factors mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate, end-tidal carbon dioxide, and oxygen saturation were measured. Serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1, IL-8, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α as well as β-endorphin were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) was measured using the thiobarbituric acid method.

Results

The incidence of specific adverse events was reduced and overall and disease-free survival were improved in the observation group compared with the control group. MAP was generally lower in the observation group compared with the control group, as were the serum levels of IL-1, IL-8, hs-CRP, TNF-α, and MDA.

Conclusions

Compared with general anesthesia, combined epidural and general anesthesia may inhibit the occurrence of short-term adverse events and improve long-term outcomes by inhibiting inflammatory responses in patients with early-stage NSCLC after tumor resection.
Antiemetic efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus dexmedetomidine-dexamethasone combination in patients undergoing breast surgery
Authors: Kwak HyunJeong , Chang Young Jin , Lee Kyung Cheon , Jung Wol Seon , Kwon Sunkoo , Jo Youn Yi
Published: September 2019

Objective

To compare the antiemetic efficacy of dexmedetomidine alone versus combined dexmedetomidine–dexamethasone on incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing breast surgery.

Methods

A total of 149 patients (aged 20–65 years) were assigned to receive normal saline (control group, n = 50), dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg/kg (DEX group, n = 49), or a combination of dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg/kg and dexamethasone 5 mg (dual group, n = 50) at 30 minutes prior to the end of surgery. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of PONV in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU).

Results

During the first 24 hours after surgery, the incidence of PONV was significantly higher in the control group than in the DEX and dual groups (70% vs. 20% and 12%, respectively), with no intergroup difference observed between the DEX and dual groups. In the PACU, the incidence of PONV differed significantly among the control, DEX, and dual groups (12%, 4%, and 3%, respectively).

Conclusion

Dexmedetomidine alone and in combination with dexamethasone significantly reduced PONV with similar antiemetic efficacies in female patients during the first 24 hours after breast surgery. Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 02550795).
Investigating the circumstances under which singers use imagery: A pilot study
Authors: DeSantis Brianna , Deck Sarah , Hall Craig
Published: September 2019

This is a qualitative study in which detailed, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six male and female high-level singers. In comparison to Nordin and Cumming’s work on professional dancers, some similarities and some unique differences emerged from the results. The Four Ws framework was employed, which involves Where, What, Why, and When singers image. Like in Nordin and Cumming’s study, How was a dimension that emerged inductively from the results. Singers mainly used imagery for improving vocal technique, performance anxiety, and character development.
Republicanism within IR: A History of Liberty and Empire
Authors: Blachford Kevin
Published: September 2019

The republican tradition has long been influential within political theory, but has been less acknowledged within the discipline of International Relations (IR). Republican theorists and republican ideas of political liberty underlie many normative claims made by both liberal and realist schools of thought. The following examination of republicanism takes an interdisciplinary approach to argue the relevance of republicanism for IR theory. When republicanism is recognised within IR, it is often through a triumphalist reading of the early American republic and its founding. This article opens new ground by presenting a more critical account of republicanism. It does so by focusing on the connections between republican liberty and the history of republics to dominate those outside the polis.

El republicanismo en el ámbito de las relaciones internacionales: Una historia de libertad e imperio
Detecting errors that result in retractions
Authors: Andersen Line Edslev , Wray K Brad
Published: September 2019

We present a taxonomy of errors in the scientific literature and an account of how the errors are distributed over the categories. We have developed the taxonomy by studying substantial errors in the scientific literature as described in retraction notices published in the journal Science over the past 35 years. We then examine how the sorts of errors that lead to retracted papers can be prevented and detected, considering the perspective of collaborating scientists, journal editors and referees, and readers of the published articles.
The rentierization of the United Kingdom economy
Authors: Christophers Brett
Published: September 2019

There is a growing groundswell of opinion in commentary on the political economy of the Global North that the neoliberal era has seen the forceful (re)emergence of rentier capitalism. This article analyses the case of the UK. Identifying and delineating the predominant forms of contemporary rentierism operating in the UK, and using a range of datasets pertaining to the shape of the national economy, it shows that rentierism in its various guises is today a significant, even dominant, dynamic, in contrast to during the period preceding the neoliberal turn. The article further seeks to account for the ascendancy of the rentier in the UK under neoliberalism, highlighting key developments in the realms of monetary and fiscal policy and policies relating to asset ownership and property rights.
A physical and social analysis of how variations in no-till conservation practices lead to inaccurate sediment runoff estimations in agricultural watersheds
Authors: Malone Melanie , Polyakov Viktor
Published: September 2019

Although agricultural influence on sediment runoff is well known, determining what sources of sediment contribute most to stream impairment has remained challenging in agricultural watersheds across the world. Therefore, methods to distinguish the sources of sediment in streams are warranted, particularly methods that incorporate information on anthropogenic practices that affect sediment runoff. In this study we examined how variations in conservation practices contributed to unidentified sources of sediment in an agricultural watershed, where 49% of sediment was sourced from agricultural fields that were assumed to have little erosional runoff. We found that variations in the way no-till agriculture is practiced significantly affected estimates of erosion in the watershed and also led agency managers to overlook sources of sediment in the watershed. In doing this research, we provide a methodological framework that may be useful to researchers who are attempting to identify sources of sediment erosion in watersheds impacted by variations in agricultural conservation practices.
Multiple Concussions Increase Odds and Rate of Lower Extremity Injury in National Collegiate Athletic Association Athletes After Return to Play
Authors: Harada Garrett K. , Rugg Caitlin M. , Arshi Armin , Vail Jeremy , Hame Sharon L.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Concussion in collegiate athletics is one of the most prevalent sport-related injuries in the United States, with recent studies suggesting persistent deficits in neuromuscular control after a concussion and an associated increase in risk of lower extremity injury.

Purpose:

To expand on the relationship between concussion and lower extremity injury by examining the effect of multiple concussions (MC) on rate and odds of future lower extremity injury in collegiate athletes after return to play (RTP) compared with matched controls.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

From 2001 to 2016, 48 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes sustaining multiple concussions at a single institution were identified. Athletes with multiple concussions (MC) were matched directly to athletes with a single concussion (SC) and to athletes with no concussion history (NC) by sex, sport, position, and games played. Incidence of, time to, and location of lower extremity injury were recorded for each group after RTP from their first reported concussion until completion of their collegiate career. Logistic regression was used to analyze odds ratios (ORs) for sustaining lower extremity injury, whereas time to injury was summarized by use of Kaplan-Meier curves and log rank test analysis.

Results:

The incidence of lower extremity injury after RTP was significantly greater ( P = .049) in the MC cohort (36/48, 75%) than in SC athletes (25/48 = 52%) and NC athletes (27/48 = 56%). Similarly, odds of lower extremity injury were significantly greater in the MC cohort than in SC athletes (OR, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.26-7.12; P = .01) and NC athletes (OR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.07-2.56; P = .02). Time to lower extremity injury was significantly shorter in the MC group compared with matched controls ( P = .01). No difference was found in odds of lower extremity injury or time to lower extremity injury between SC and NC athletes.

Conclusion:

Collegiate athletes with MC were more likely to sustain a lower extremity injury after RTP in a shorter time frame than were the matched SC and NC athletes. This may suggest the presence of a cohort more susceptible to neuromuscular deficits after concussion or more injury prone due to player behavior, and it may imply the need for more stringent RTP protocols for athletes experiencing MC.
Bone Bruise and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears: Presence, Distribution Pattern, and Associated Lesions in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Bordoni Vittorio , di Laura Frattura Giorgio , Previtali Davide , Tamborini Simone , Candrian Christian , Cristallo Lacalamita Marirosa , Del Grande Filippo , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: September 2019

Background:

Bone bruise characteristics after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury have been correlated with the level of joint derangement in adults. However, the literature lacks information about younger patients, whose higher ligamentous laxity may lead to different lesion patterns.

Purpose:

To investigate the prevalence, size, location, and role of bone bruise associated with ACL rupture in the pediatric population.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Knee magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRIs) of patients aged 8 to 16 years with ACL tears from 2010 to 2018 were selected from the institution database. Inclusion criteria were open or partially open physes, less than 90 days between trauma and MRI, and no history of injury or surgery. Presence, localization, and size of bone bruise were analyzed by 2 blinded researchers and scored with the Whole-Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS) bone bruise subscale. Ligamentous, cartilaginous, meniscal, and other lesions were documented.

Results:

Of the 78 pediatric patients selected from the database, 54 (69%) had bone bruise. The mean area of bone bruise was larger in males than in females (femur, 3.8 ± 2.8 vs 2.2 ± 1.4 cm2, respectively, P = .006; tibia, 2.6 ± 1.6 vs 1.5 ± 0.8 cm2, respectively, P = .007). The subregions most affected by bone bruise were the lateral posterior tibia and the lateral central femur (in 83% and 80% of the knees affected, respectively). A low correlation was found between age and bone bruise area (biggest areas r = 0.30, P = .03, and sum of areas r = 0.27, P = .04), but no correlation was found between age and WORMS (femur, r = −0.03, P = .85; tibia, r = −0.04, P = .76). The injuries most associated with bone bruise were 23 meniscal lesions (43%), 10 lesions of other ligaments (19.0%), 2 cartilage lesions (3.7%), and 2 patellar fractures (3.7%).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of bone bruises in pediatric patients with ACL tears is high, although it seems slightly lower than the prevalence documented in adults but with similar localization. The area and the distribution pattern of bone bruises are similar among different ages. The pediatric patients had a lower presence of cartilage and meniscal lesions compared with that reported in adults, which suggests a different effect of this trauma on the knee of pediatric patients.
Emotion, interaction and the structure-agency problem: Building on the sociology of Randall Collins
Authors: King Anthony
Published: September 2019

Sociology today faces a number of serious challenges to its integrity as a discipline. As a synthesis of Weberian and Durkheimian traditions, the work of Randall Collins represents an innovative vindication of sociology in the early 21st century. This article explores Collins’s interaction ritual theory to demonstrate its contemporary utility. However, to highlight the importance of Collins’s work, it seeks to advance and refine it theoretically. Specifically, it seeks to develop Collins’s argument about the role of emotions and, specifically, effervescence, in rituals. This paper argues that, while important, effervescence alone cannot be sufficient to ensure the conformity which is a typical feature of interaction and essential to explaining social order. Drawing on Goffman, Asch and Scheff, the paper argues that effervescence is underpinned by more robust mechanisms of honour and shame, themselves immediately connected to access to collective goods. In this way, the paper affirms the importance of Randall Collins’s work for sociology today.
Reflections on Randall Collins’s sociology of credentialism
Authors: Khoo Su-ming
Published: September 2019

This article reflects on Collins’s classic work, The Credential Society (1979), situating his critique of educational credentialism within broader ‘conflict sociology’. The discussion reappraises Collins’s work in the context of the ‘new credentialism’, ‘new learning’ and the race, gender and class concerns raised in current debates on higher education. The article characterizes contemporary higher education as being trapped in a Procrustean dynamic: techno-utopianism with job displacement and expansionism with declining public support. Collins attempts to escape the legacy of structural-functionalism through conflict sociology or predictions of systemic crisis. This is contrasted with his contemporary, Herbert Gintis’s eclectic attempt to construct a transdisciplinary social science. The key problem of marketized inequality is linked to the sociology of absences in conflict sociology, and it is argued that inequalities of class, race, gender and coloniality in higher education and credentialism can no longer be ignored.
Quantities, environmental footprints and beliefs associated with household food waste in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Djekic Ilija , Operta Sabina , Djulancic Nermina , Lorenzo Jose M , Barba Francisco J , Djordjević Vesna , Tomasevic Igor
Published: September 2019

The objectives of this research were to identify the quantities and global warming, acidification and eutrophication potentials associated with household food waste in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In parallel, this study investigated perceptions related to food waste and using the quality function deployment for environment model, correlated reasons for discarding food waste and beliefs associated with food waste. Based on this study, it is estimated that around 2.8 kg of food waste is disposed of by the average household every week. Global warming, acidification and eutrophication potentials associated with household food waste are, on average, 3.49 kg CO2e/week, 2.42 g SO2e/week and 8.70 g PO4e/week, respectively. Also, Bosnian households discard over 80 different pieces of food packaging waste weekly, where plastic packaging is the most dominant packing type. The highest ranked reason for discarding food is linked to plate leftovers. In general, Bosnian citizens feel guilty when they waste food.
Ameliorating Workplace Harassment among Direct Caregivers in Canada’s Healthcare System: A Theatre-Based Intervention
Authors: Quinlan Elizabeth , Robertson Susan , Urban Ann-Marie , Findlay Isobel M , Bilson Beth
Published: September 2019

The article reports on a theatre-based intervention designed to address workplace harassment among direct caregivers in Canada. The study is part of a larger analytical project that relies on labour process theory and critical realist evaluation methodology to understand what interventions work, how, for whom, and under what circumstances. Using Theatre of the Oppressed techniques, the reported intervention addresses workplace harassment by challenging the normative codes governing social interactions in participants’ workplaces. The study’s analysis indicates that the intervention’s Theatre of the Oppressed activities energized the participating caregivers to imagine, enact and collectively assess new social interactions. The caregivers developed strategies to resist the oppressive relations of their employment and became competent contesters of dominant discourses circulating in their workplaces. The solidarity developed through the bodily sculptures and enacted scenarios elicited participants’ deliberative exchange about workplace harassment and awakened a collective will to carry their revelations back to their workplaces.
Aero-engine blade profile reconstruction based on adaptive step size bat algorithm and visualization of machining error
Authors: Huang Zhi , Wei Pengxuan , Li Chao , Wang Hongyan , Wang Jingyi
Published: September 2019

High-precision profile reconstruction is a key issue in the profile detection and visualization of aero-engine blades. A method based on adaptive step size bat algorithm (ASSBA) for blade profile reconstruction and an adaptive mesh model for visualization analysis of the key machining errors are proposed. Firstly, the original bat algorithm (BA) is improved to introduce the global stage and local search stage. Then, combined with the node layer characteristics of the blade measurement data, the ASSBA is used to fit the optimal surface. Further, the adaptive mesh is planned on the blade profile to extract various evaluation parameters. Finally, the algorithm analysis and verification are carried out based on a certain type of blade. The results show this reconstruction method can get the fitted surface more quickly and accurately than other iterative methods. Simultaneously, the visualization method and corresponding software system can intuitively visualize the blade profile error, the twist deformation error, the swept deformation error, the bending deformation error and the cross-section line profile error.
Transgenerational effect of parental obesity and chronic parental bisphenol A exposure on hormonal profile and reproductive organs of preadolescent Wistar rats of F1 generation: A one-generation study
Authors: Dabeer S , Afjal MA , Ahmad S , Fatima M , Habib H , Parvez S , Raisuddin S
Published: September 2019

There is a global concern about adverse health effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Bisphenol A (BPA), an estrogenic and obesogenic compound, used in the plastic and medical industry has a dominant position among EDCs as far as human health and regulatory scenario are concerned. Due to its omnipresence across the biosphere, population of all age groups and health status is unavoidably exposed to BPA. Transgenerational exposure to BPA and its effects have also been recognized. However, there is no report on the transgenerational effect of BPA on metabolically disordered parents, such as obese ones. We studied effect of BPA exposure in F0 generation and its impact on F1 generation and factored parental obesity in transgenerational effect of concurrent exposure to low dose BPA (10 ppm × 180 days) in Wistar rats in a one-generation study protocol. The exposed F0 generation animals were crossed and F1 generation was analyzed 35 days after birth for indications of reproductive toxicity. We observed changes in hormone levels and disturbance in glucose and lipid homeostasis. Animals showed increased serum cholesterol and triglycerides along with higher birth weight and rapid weight gain. Histopathological evidence confirmed the presence of regressive and inflammatory changes in the ovary and testis. The test group showed metabolic disturbances in comparison to control group. Our study showed the additive effect of parental obesity in transgenerational reproductive toxicity of BPA. Female animals of F1 generation of BPA-treated obese parents showed more insulin resistance than males with similar exposure scenario. Our study highlights the confounding role of metabolic disorders such as obesity in the transgenerational toxicity of BPA, which otherwise itself is implicated in the aetiology of such metabolic disorders, directly or indirectly.
Variable selection for joint models with time-varying coefficients
Authors: Xie Yujing , He Zangdong , Tu Wanzhu , Yu Zhangsheng
Published: September 2019

Many clinical studies collect longitudinal and survival data concurrently. Joint models combining these two types of outcomes through shared random effects are frequently used in practical data analysis. The standard joint models assume that the coefficients for the longitudinal and survival components are time-invariant. In many applications, the assumption is overly restrictive. In this research, we extend the standard joint model to include time-varying coefficients, in both longitudinal and survival components, and we present a data-driven method for variable selection. Specifically, we use a B-spline decomposition and penalized likelihood with adaptive group LASSO to select the relevant independent variables and to distinguish the time-varying and time-invariant effects for the two model components. We use Gaussian-Legendre and Gaussian-Hermite quadratures to approximate the integrals in the absence of closed-form solutions. Simulation studies show good selection and estimation performance. Finally, we use the proposed procedure to analyze data generated by a study of primary biliary cirrhosis.
Comparing the Effects of the mTOR Inhibitors Azithromycin and Rapamycin on In Vitro Expanded Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Bergström Marcus , Müller Malin , Karlsson Marie , Scholz Hanne , Vethe Nils Tore , Korsgren Olle
Published: September 2019

Adoptive transfer of autologous polyclonal regulatory T cells (Tregs) is a promising option for reducing graft rejection in allogeneic transplantation. To gain therapeutic levels of Tregs there is a need to expand obtained cells ex vivo, usually in the presence of the mTOR inhibitor Rapamycin due to its ability to suppress proliferation of non-Treg T cells, thus promoting a purer Treg yield. Azithromycin is a bacteriostatic macrolide with mTOR inhibitory activity that has been shown to exert immunomodulatory effects on several types of immune cells. In this study we investigated the effects of Azithromycin, compared with Rapamycin, on Treg phenotype, growth, and function when expanding bulk, naïve, and memory Tregs. Furthermore, the intracellular concentration of Rapamycin in CD4+ T cells as well as in the culture medium was measured for up to 48 h after supplemented. Treg phenotype was assessed by flow cytometry and Treg function was measured as inhibition of responder T-cell expansion in a suppression assay. The concentration of Rapamycin was quantified with liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Azithromycin and Rapamycin both promoted a FoxP3-positive Treg phenotype in bulk Tregs, while Rapamycin also increased FoxP3 and FoxP3+Helios positivity in naïve and memory Tregs. Furthermore, Rapamycin inhibited the expansion of naïve Tregs, but also increased their suppressive effect. Rapamycin was quickly degraded in 37°C medium, yet was retained intracellularly. While both compounds may benefit expansion of FoxP3+ Tregs in vitro, further studies elucidating the effects of Azithromycin treatment on Tregs are needed to determine its potential use.
Research Status of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Liver Transplantation
Authors: You Yu , Wen Di-guang , Gong Jian-ping , Liu Zuo-jin
Published: September 2019

Liver transplantation has been deemed the best choice for end-stage liver disease patients but immune rejection after surgery is still a serious problem. Patients have to take immunosuppressive drugs for a long time after liver transplantation, and this often leads to many side effects. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) gradually became of interest to researchers because of their powerful immunomodulatory effects. In the past, a large number of in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the great potential of MSCs for participation in posttransplant immunomodulation. In addition, MSCs also have properties that may potentially benefit patients undergoing liver transplantation. This article aims to provide an overview of the current understanding of the immunomodulation achieved by the application of MSCs in liver transplantation, to discuss the problems that may be encountered when using MSCs in clinical practice, and to describe some of the underlying capabilities of MSCs in liver transplantation. Cell–cell contact, soluble molecules, and exosomes have been suggested to be critical approaches to MSCs’ immunoregulation in vitro; however, the exact mechanism, especially in vivo, is still unclear. In recent years, the clinical safety of MSCs has been proven by a series of clinical trials. The obstacles to the clinical application of MSCs are decreasing, but large sample clinical trials involving MSCs are still needed to further study their clinical effects.
A circular RNA derived from MMP9 facilitates oral squamous cell carcinoma metastasis through regulation of MMP9 mRNA stability
Authors: Xia Bing , Hong Tao , He Xin , Hu Xinlan , Gao Yongbo
Published: September 2019

Emerging evidence demonstrates that dysregulation of circular RNA is linked to tumorigenesis and aggressive progression. However, its role in oral squamous cell carcinoma remains largely uncharacterized. In this study, we identified a novel metastasis-associated circular RNA, circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 (hsa_circ_0001162, a circular RNA derived from matrix metalloproteinase 9), which was remarkably upregulated in oral squamous cell carcinoma and positively correlated with matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression. Patients with high circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression were prone to lymph node metastasis and an advanced TNM stage. Importantly, circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 was identified as an efficacious diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for oral squamous cell carcinoma patients. Functional experiments showed that depletion of circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 weakened the migratory and invasive capabilities of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells in vitro as well as inhibited lung metastasis in vivo. Regarding the mechanism, circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 could simultaneously interact with AUF1 and miR-149 to block the inhibitory effect of AUF1 and miR-149 on matrix metalloproteinase 9 3′-untranslated region, resulting in enhanced matrix metalloproteinase 9 messenger RNA stability, thereby facilitating oral squamous cell carcinoma metastasis. Collectively, our data indicate that circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 acts as a metastasis-promoting gene in oral squamous cell carcinoma through regulating the messenger RNA stability of its parental gene. Therapeutic targeting of circular matrix metalloproteinase 9 may be a promising treatment intervention for metastatic oral squamous cell carcinoma patients.
A critical discourse analysis of a local enactment of sport for integration policy: Helping young refugees or self-help for voluntary sports clubs?
Authors: Dowling Fiona
Published: September 2019

An increasing number of scholars argue that politicians’ ill-defined policies of sport for integration are difficult to realize and, paradoxically, can lead to a sense of alterity and exclusion. This paper provides a micro-analysis of the ‘slippage’ between government visions of sport for integration for refugees and the local, contextual interpretations of sport policy for inclusion. From a critical constructivist perspective, influenced by critical race theory, it examines policy enactment by asking: ‘How did sport for integration of young refugees get talked and written about in a voluntary sports club?’; ‘How did this language in use construct the practices that became locally naturalized?’; and ‘What ideologies were underpinning these realities’? Findings from the critical discourse analysis revealed that local enactments of policy for integration were mostly built upon assimilationist ideas that can exclude, rather than integrate, refugees, and did ideological work to uphold racialized hierarchies in sport. Alternative visions of integration (such as two-way processes of integration or ideas about celebrating cultural diversity) were rationally marginalized in the everyday business of the voluntary sports club, namely, competitive sport. The findings contribute to the literature that claims VSCs may be unsuitable arenas for integration initiatives aiming to provide meaningful physical activity for refugee youth.
Off-Target Impacts: Tracing Public Participation in Policy Making for Agricultural Biotechnology
Authors: Card Daniel J.
Published: September 2019

Drawing on public comments and drafts of an environmental impact statement, this article examines public participation in policy making via the federal Web site Regulations.gov . Aiming to be our “voice” in federal decision making, Regulations.gov encourages citizens to submit comments on proposed actions. Drawing on Callon, Lascoumes, and Barthe’s “hybrid forum,” the author suggests that ethical and effective participatory policy making should be hybrid in scope, inclusion, and agency. While public participation in policy making is commonly positioned as an antidote to the crisis of trust in science, the author argues that such participation gone wrong could have off-target impacts, raising questions about the promise of Regulations.gov .
The electrocardiographic method for positioning the tip of central venous access device
Authors: Yu Yanfen , Yuan Lingling
Published: September 2019

Background:

The electrocardiogram-based insertion method is non-radiative, allowing real-time positioning verification and reducing the need for postoperative repositioning.

Methods:

Relevant databases published from January 1990 to January 2019 in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Medline and Ovid’s database were searched, comparing the effectiveness of electrocardiogram-guided catheter tip positioning (electrocardiogram-guided group) and the landmarks-guided insertion plus chest X-ray confirmation (landmarks-guided group). The primary outcome was accurate catheter tip placement and the secondary outcomes were complications.

Results:

A total of 13 studies were finally included with a total of 4988 patients, of whom 2789 cases were in the electrocardiogram-guided group and 2199 cases received landmarks-guided insertion plus chest X-ray. Compared with the landmarks-guided group, our meta-analysis showed that the electrocardiogram-guided group had a higher success rate of tip placement (odds ratio = 0.21, 95% confidence interval = 0.14–0.34, p < 0.00001) and fewer total complications (odds ratio = 0.10, 95% confidence interval = 0.04–0.23, p < 0.000001).

Conclusion:

Based on our findings, electrocardiogram-guided tip placement for central venous access device was more accurate and safer than landmarks-guided positioning, which may be considered as an alternative method to the standard radiological control of tip placement.