bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Courteous Algorithm for Uplink Scheduling in LTE-Advanced and 5G Networks
Authors: Tata Chafika , Fellag Nassima , Kadoch Michel
Published: January 2020

The fast evolution of the number of wireless users and the emergence of new multimedia services have motivated third-generation partnership project (3GPP) to develop new radio access technologies. Thus, the carrier aggregation (CA) was introduced from version 10 long-term evolution (LTE), known as long-term evolution-advanced (LTE-A), to meet the increasing demands in terms of throughput and bandwidth and to ensure the Quality of Service (QoS) for different classes of bearers in LTE networks. However, such solution stills inefficient until implementing good resources management scheme. Several scheduling mechanisms have been proposed in the literature, to guarantee the QoS of different classes of bearers in LTE-A and 5G networks. Nevertheless, most of them promote high-priority bearers. In this study, a new approach of uplink scheduling resources has been developed. It aims to ensure service fairness of different traffic classes that allocates bearers over LTE-A and 5G networks. Also, it raises the number of admitted users in the network by increasing the number of admitted bearers through a dynamic management of service priorities. In fact, the low-priority traffic classes, using low-priority bearers, are favoured during a specific time interval, based on the average waiting time for each class. Simulation results show that the QoS parameters were much improved for the low-priority classes without significantly affecting the QoS of high priority ones.
Topology Optimization of Free Damping Treatments on Plates Using Level Set Method
Authors: Pang Jian , Zheng Weiguang , Yang Liang , Wan Yuping , Huang Qibai , Tang Rongjiang
Published: January 2020

Application of level set method to optimize the topology of free damping treatments on plates is investigated. The objective function is defined as a combination of several desired modal loss factors solved by the finite element-modal strain energy method. The finite element model for the composite plate is described as combining the level set function. A clamped rectangle composite plate is numerically and experimentally analyzed. The optimized results for a single modal show that the proposed method has the possibility of nucleation of new holes inside the material domain, and the final design is insensitive to initial designs. The damping treatments are guided towards the areas with high modal strain energy. For the multimodal case, the optimized result matches the normalized modal strain energy of the base plate, which would provide a simple implementation way for industrial application. Experimental results show good agreements with the proposed method. The experimental results are in good agreement with the optimization results. It is very promising to see that the optimized result for each modal has almost the same damping effect as that of the full coverage case, and the result for multimodal gets moderate damping at each modal.
An Investigation into the Effect of Cracking on the Response of Drilled and Postgrouted Concrete Pipe Pile under Lateral Loading
Authors: Yang Zhijun , Fang Qing , Lv Bu , Mei Can , Fu Xudong
Published: January 2020

The cracks are likely to initiate on a lateral loaded pile and would cause greater deflection at the pile head. However, there is a lack of thorough investigation into the effect of cracking on the response of the lateral loaded pile. In this article, a full‐scale field test was carried out to investigate the behavior of Drilled and Postgrouted Concrete Pipe Pile under lateral loads. A novel analysis method for the lateral loaded pile, which can take the cracking effects into consideration, was proposed, and the validity was verified by the test results. With the proposed method, the cracking effects on flexural rigidity, displacement, rotation, and bending moment of the pile were studied. In brief, cracking effect would dramatically reduce the flexural rigidity of the pile, remarkable increase the displacement and rotation of the pile top, and slightly decrease bending moment of the pile. Unambiguously, the results show that the proposed method can excellently predict the response of laterally loaded piles under cracking effects.
Qualitative Research: Institutional Preparedness During Threats of Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Authors: de Rooij Doret , Belfroid Evelien , Eilers Renske , Roßkamp Dorothee , Swaan Corien , Timen Aura
Published: January 2020

Background. As demonstrated during the global Ebola crisis of 2014–2016, healthcare institutions in high resource settings need support concerning preparedness during threats of infectious disease outbreaks. This study aimed to exploratively develop a standardized preparedness system to use during unfolding threats of severe infectious diseases. Methods. A qualitative three‐step study among infectious disease prevention and control experts was performed. First, interviews (n = 5) were conducted to identify which factors trigger preparedness activities during an unfolding threat. Second, these triggers informed the design of a phased preparedness system which was tested in a focus group discussion (n = 11). Here preparedness activities per phase and per healthcare institution were identified. Third, the preparedness system was completed and verified in individual interviews (n = 3). Interviews and the focus group were recorded, transcribed, and coded for emerging themes by two researchers independently. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Results. Four preparedness phases were identified: preparedness phase green is a situation without the presence of the infectious disease threat that requires centralized care, anywhere in the world. Phase yellow is an outbreak in the world with some likelihood of imported cases. Phase orange is a realistic chance of an unexpected case within the country, or unrest developing among population or staff; phase red is cases admitted to hospitals in the country, potentially causing a shortage of resources. Specific preparedness activities included infection prevention, diagnostics, patient care, staff, and communication. Consensus was reached on the need for the development of a preparedness system and national coordination during threats. Conclusions. In this study, we developed a standardized system to support institutional preparedness during an increasing threat. Use of this system by both curative healthcare institutions and the (municipal) public health service, could help to effectively communicate and align preparedness activities during future threats of severe infectious diseases.
Effects of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) Consumption on Serum Lipid Profiles in Albino Rats
Authors: Alsoodeeri Fahadah Naeef , Alqabbani Hissah Mohammed , Aldossari Norah Mubarak
Published: January 2020

Dyslipidemia is an important cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which are the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of cinnamon on body weight gain, food intake, and serum lipid profiles of albino rats. This study was conducted on 30 healthy male albino rats weighing approximately 130 ± 5 g. The study was divided into the following two experiments: experiment (1), wherein rats were fed a laboratory diet; and experiment (2), wherein rats were fed a high-fat diet. In experiment 1, a total of 15 rats were divided into three groups. Group A (n=5, untreated control) was fed laboratory diet, Group Bn=5was fed laboratory diet and cinnamon powder (2 g/kg body weight), and Group Cn=5was fed laboratory diet and cinnamon powder (4 g/kg body weight) for 30 days. In experiment (2), a total of 15 rats were similarly divided into three groups. Group D (n=5, treated control) was fed laboratory diet plus high-fat diet, Group En=5was fed cinnamon powder (2 g/kg body weight) mixed with laboratory diet plus high-fat diet, and Group Fn=5was fed cinnamon powder (4 g/kg body weight) mixed with laboratory diet plus high-fat diet daily for 30 days. An administration of 4 g/kg body weight of cinnamon extract powder decreased the final weight by 4.4%, body weight gains by 31.41%, food intake by 1.7%, and food efficiency ratio by 22.38% in hypercholesterolemic adult male rats as well as serum total cholesterol by 31.22%, triglyceride by 24.05%, and LDL-C by 43.49%, with an increase in the levels of HDL-C by 30.16%, furthermore, a significant decrease in serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-C levels and increasing serum HDL-C on day 30 were observedP<0.001. This finding provides scientific evidence to substantiate the traditional use of cinnamon to treat hyperlipidemia.
Economic Evaluation of Tailored Web versus Tailored Telephone-Based Interventions to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening among Women
Authors: Lairson David R. , Chung Tong Han , Huang Danmeng , Stump Timothy E. , Monahan Patrick O. , Christy Shannon M. , Rawl Susan M. , Champion Victoria L.
Published: January 2020

Screening for colorectal cancer is cost-effective, but many U.S. women are nonadherent, and the cost-effectiveness of web-based tailored screening interventions is unknown. A randomized controlled trial, COBRA (Increasing Colorectal and Breast Cancer Screening), was the source of information for the economic evaluation. COBRA compared screening among a Usual Care group to: (i) tailored Phone Counseling intervention; (ii) tailored Web intervention; and (iii) tailored Web + Phone intervention groups. A sample of 1,196 women aged 50 to 75 who were nonadherent to colorectal cancer screening were recruited from Indiana primary care clinics during 2013 to 2015. Screening status was obtained through medical records at recruitment with verbal confirmation at consent, and at 6-month follow-up via medical record audit and participant self-report. A "best sample" analysis and microcosting from the patient and provider perspectives were applied to estimate the costs and effects of the interventions. Statistical uncertainty was analyzed with nonparametric bootstrapping and net benefit regression analysis. The per participant cost of implementing the Phone Counseling, Web-based, and Web + Phone Counseling interventions was $277, $314, and $336, respectively. The incremental cost per person screened for the Phone Counseling compared with no intervention was $995, while the additional cost of Web and the Web + Phone compared with Phone Counseling did not yield additonal persons screened. Tailored Phone Counseling significantly increased colorectal cancer screening rates compared with Usual Care. Tailored Web interventions did not improve the screening rate compared with the lower cost Phone Counseling intervention.
The Necessity of Upper Extremity Neurologic Examination while Evaluating Breast Pain
Authors: Belli Ahmet K. , Dinc Elibol Funda , Acarbas Arsal , Ozcan Onder , Dere Ozcan , Yazkan Cenk , Elibol Cenk , Tosun Kursat , Nazli Okay
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Breast pain is one of the most frequent complaints and occurs in 45–69% of all women. Cervical disc herniation is a common cause of cervical radiculopathy with an incidence rate of 18.6 per 100,000, and it should be considered as a cause of breast pain. Objective: To identify the extent to which upper extremity neurologic findings and cervical root disorders accompany breast pain. Methods: We prospectively collected clinical features of patients with breast pain. An upper extremity neurologic examination was performed in patients and controls. Patients who had neurologic findings underwent cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify cervical root disorders. Results: Out of the 554 participants, 233 had breast pain, and 321 were controls. Women with breast pain had more numbness (116 [49.8%] vs. 104 [32.4%], p < 0.001) and more dysesthesia (36 [15.5%] vs. 17 [5.3%], p < 0.001) than the controls, but they had similar upper extremity weakness (10 [4.3%] vs. 14 [4.4%], p > 0.05). The number of women with one neurologic finding was significantly greater in the group with breast pain (119 [51.1%] vs. 111 [34.6%], p < 0.001). Ninety (16.2%) patients underwent a cervical vertebra MRI, which showed that 86 (95.6%) patients had cervical root disorders including 21 (23.3%) cases of bulging, 9 (10%) of annular tear, and 56 (62.2%) of central disc protrusion; 4 (4.4%) patients had normal findings. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age was the only significant predictor of neurologic findings in patients with breast pain (p < 0.05, OR: 1.02, CI: 1.002–1.053). Conclusions: Cervical root disorders should be considered as a cause of extramammary breast pain.
The Scrambling Paradox
Authors: Bailyn John Frederick
Published: January 2020

It has been commonly observed that scrambling and wh-movement share sensitivity to strong movement constraints ( Webelhuth 1989 , Saito 1992 , Bailyn 1995 ). At the same time, the two processes clearly differ in certain other respects, such as wh-island sensitivity, a finding that has inspired a range of analyses of scrambling as entirely distinct from better-understood movement processes ( Müller and Sternefeld 1993 , Bošković and Takahashi 1998 , among many others). Careful comparison of Ā-scrambling and overt wh-movement in a language that shows both (Russian) reveals that this seemingly paradoxical behavior can be captured effectively in a probe-goal theory of scrambling that obeys a form of Relativized Minimality defined across feature classes, following Rizzi 2004 . The resulting analysis exposes the distinct nature of strong and weak islands, with consequences for our understanding of the core architecture of syntactic movement.
Scopus as a curated, high-quality bibliometric data source for academic research in quantitative science studies
Authors: Baas Jeroen , Schotten Michiel , Plume Andrew , Côté Grégoire , Karimi Reza
Published: January 2020

Scopus is among the largest curated abstract and citation databases, with a wide global and regional coverage of scientific journals, conference proceedings, and books, while ensuring only the highest quality data are indexed through rigorous content selection and re-evaluation by an independent Content Selection and Advisory Board. Additionally, extensive quality assurance processes continuously monitor and improve all data elements in Scopus. Besides enriched metadata records of scientific articles, Scopus offers comprehensive author and institution profiles, obtained from advanced profiling algorithms and manual curation, ensuring high precision and recall. The trustworthiness of Scopus has led to its use as bibliometric data source for large-scale analyses in research assessments, research landscape studies, science policy evaluations, and university rankings. Scopus data have been offered for free for selected studies by the academic research community, such as through application programming interfaces, which have led to many publications employing Scopus data to investigate topics such as researcher mobility, network visualizations, and spatial bibliometrics. In June 2019, the International Center for the Study of Research was launched, with an advisory board consisting of bibliometricians, aiming to work with the scientometric research community and offering a virtual laboratory where researchers will be able to utilize Scopus data.
Dimensions: Bringing down barriers between scientometricians and data
Authors: Herzog Christian , Hook Daniel , Konkiel Stacy
Published: January 2020

Until recently, comprehensive scientometrics data has been made available only in siloed, subscription-based tools that are inaccessible to researchers who lack institutional support and resources. As a result of limited data access, research evaluation practices have focused upon basic indicators that only take publications and their citation rates into account. This has blocked innovation on many fronts. Dimensions is a database that links and contextualizes different research information objects. It brings together data describing and linking awarded grants, clinical trials, patents, and policy documents, as well as altmetric information, alongside traditional publications and citations data. This article describes the approach that Digital Science is taking to support the scientometric community, together with the various Dimensions tools available to researchers who wish to use Dimensions data in their research at no cost.
Crossref: The sustainable source of community-owned scholarly metadata
Authors: Hendricks Ginny , Tkaczyk Dominika , Lin Jennifer , Feeney Patricia
Published: January 2020

This paper describes the scholarly metadata collected and made available by Crossref, as well as its importance in the scholarly research ecosystem. Containing over 106 million records and expanding at an average rate of 11% a year, Crossref’s metadata has become one of the major sources of scholarly data for publishers, authors, librarians, funders, and researchers. The metadata set consists of 13 content types, including not only traditional types, such as journals and conference papers, but also data sets, reports, preprints, peer reviews, and grants. The metadata is not limited to basic publication metadata, but can also include abstracts and links to full text, funding and license information, citation links, and the information about corrections, updates, retractions, etc. This scale and breadth make Crossref a valuable source for research in scientometrics, including measuring the growth and impact of science and understanding new trends in scholarly communications. The metadata is available through a number of APIs, including REST API and OAI-PMH. In this paper, we describe the kind of metadata that Crossref provides and how it is collected and curated. We also look at Crossref’s role in the research ecosystem and trends in metadata curation over the years, including the evolution of its citation data provision. We summarize the research used in Crossref’s metadata and describe plans that will improve metadata quality and retrieval in the future.
Ben Sira and the Moon
Authors: Calduch-Benages Nuria
Published: January 2020

This paper deals with the use of lunar imagery in the book of Ben Sira. The scribe of Jerusalem refers to the moon on four occasions: Sir 27,11; 39,12; 43,6-8 and 50,6. With the exception of Sir 43,6-8, in the other texts he refers to it metaphorically. While in Sir 39,12 and 50,6 he shows a positive image of the moon, in Sir 27,11 it serves a negative one. From the analysis of these texts the author draws the following conclusion: lunar imagery, which at first sight might seem a mere ornamental embellishment of the text, constitutes a powerful tool used by the sage to transmit his teaching convincingly and to enhance his authority as a teacher of wisdom.
Scholar and Mentor: Vladimir Stasov and the Promotion of Russian Needlecrafts
Authors: Andrea Rusnock K.
Published: January 2020

Vladimir Stasov, well-known as a champion of Russian art and music, proved equally forceful as an advocate for Russian needlework. Yet this key component of his scholarship has been relegated to secondary status; remedying this neglect is the aim of this article. Stasov’s well-known publication, Russkii narodnyi ornament (1872), has traditionally been discussed as a treatise on ornament, however its main emphasis was needlework and it needs to be analyzed as such. Further, Stasov influenced others to take up the cause of Russian national needle art, in particular Sofia Davydova whose tome on Russian lace, Russkoe kruzhevo i russkie kruzhevnitsy (1886), made a major contribution to Russian art and culture. Stasov’s scholarship and promotion of needlework needs to be thoroughly understood in order to have a more complete understanding of Russian material culture and this article is a starting point toward that goal.
Pavel Chistiakov and Jan Ciągliński: New Approaches to Art Pedagogy in Nineteenth- and Early Twentieth-Century Russia
Authors: Wünsche Isabel
Published: January 2020

This essay looks at art education in Russia in the nineteenth century, specifically at artist-training practices at institutions such as the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts and the Imperial Society for the Encouragements of the Arts in St. Petersburg. Particular emphasis is on the role and significance of Pavel Chistiakov and Jan Ciągliński, charismatic teachers who developed their distinct art-pedagogical systems as an alternative to the existing academic system and paved the way for the emergence of modern art and the avant-garde in Russia.
Elatostema agasthyanum (Urticaceae), a new lithophytic species from the southern Western Ghats, India

Authors: JEOMOL K.K. , SUNOJKUMAR P.
Published: January 2020

The present article describes and illustrates a new lithophytic species of Elatostema from the southern Western Ghats, India. The new taxon is morphologically similar to the Taiwan species E. strigillosum, but is clearly distinguishable by the characters of stem, leaves, pistillate inflorescence and achenes. Photographs and distribution map of E. agasthyanum are provided for easy identification. A table showing comparison of morphological characters of similar species is also provided.
A new species and a new combination of Amomum Roxb. (Zingiberaceae) from Sikkim Himalaya, India

Authors: THOMAS V.P. , SABU M. , JAYAKRISHNAN T. , RAJEESH E.P.
Published: January 2020

Amomum raoii, a new species and A. raoii var. oblongum, a new combination from Sikkim are described. Detailed descriptions, data on distribution and ecology are provided.
Upsa centennial, a new genus and species (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Endroedyolini) from the Southern Mistbelt forest in South Africa: celebrating 100 years of entomology at the University of Pretoria
Authors: DESCHODT CHRISTIAN M. , SOLE CATHERINE L. , SCHOLTZ CLARKE H.
Published: January 2020

Upsa centennial Deschodt, Sole & Scholtz, new genus and species is described, celebrating a century of entomology at the University of Pretoria. This new genus in the dung beetle tribe Endroedyolini (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) occurs in the Albany Coastal Mistbelt forest in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. A distribution map and key for all genera and species in the tribe are provided.[Genus Zoobank url: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:92A64613-A8CE-48DF-84D9-7450EA1D40AA]
A study on Roeslerstammiidae (Lepidoptera) in the Insect Collection of Nankai University (NKU), with descriptions of three new species
Authors: ZHENG MEILING , QI MUJIE , LI HOUHUN
Published: January 2020

The specimens of Roeslerstammiidae deposited in the Insect Collection of Nankai University have been reviewed. A total of five species are involved. Three new species are described from Southwest China, Agriothera quadrativalva sp. nov., A. microtricha sp. nov. and Telethera declivimarginata sp. nov. Agriothera elaeocarpophaga Moriuti, 1978 is recorded from mainland China for the first time. Photographs of adults and genitalia are given, along with a key to Chinese species.
Enigmaticolus inflatus sp. nov., a new buccinid species from a methane seep area in the South China Sea (Gastropoda: Neogastropoda)
Authors: ZHANG SHUQIAN , ZHANG SUPING , CHEN HAO
Published: January 2020

During an investigation carried out by the Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IOCAS), two living buccinid specimens were collected from a deep-sea methane seep area in the South China Sea. Observations of the shell, gross anatomy and radular morphology reveal that they represent an undescribed species of the genus Enigmaticolus. In this paper, we describe and illustrate this species as Enigmaticolus inflatus sp. nov. The new species is by general shell shape most similar to Enigmaticolus marshalli Fraussen & Stahlschmidt, 2016 from Kermadec Ridge, New Zealand, but can be distinguished from it by having an inflated shell with reduced spiral sculpture, and by the absence of axial sculpture. Phylogenetic analysis using 636 bp of the cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI) gene also supports its systematic placement within Enigmaticolus.
Assessing sitting and standing in college students using height-adjustable desks
Authors: Chrisman Matthew , Ye Sangbeak , Reddy Ashleigh , Purdy William
Published: January 2020

Objective:

To examine if Arduino microcontrollers and Fitbits can serve as proxy measures for the direct observation of sitting and standing time in college students using height-adjustable standing desks. The preferred type of standing desks and reasons to use the desks were also assessed.

Design:

Classroom-based intervention, plus cross-sectional survey.

Setting:

Mid-sized Midwestern US university classroom.

Method:

Students were randomised to either a tabletop or stand-alone height-adjustable standing desk. They followed an alternating sit/stand protocol, then completed an 11-item questionnaire on preferences and reasons for or against using the desks. Data were collected in October 2018.

Results:

Twenty-two students completed the protocol (16 women; 15 in third or fourth year of study). Arduinos provided accurate representation of sitting. Correlations between Fitbits and Arduinos were moderate (.23–.49). Sixteen of the 22 participants preferred tabletop (vs stand-alone) height-adjustable desks. Main reasons to use standing desks were to improve health and preferring to stand. Main reasons for not using them were being tired and preferring to sit.

Conclusion:

Arduinos served as an adequate stand-in for direct observation, which has implications for studying the sedentary behaviours of large numbers of students simultaneously. More research is needed on using Fitbits for assessing sitting and standing time. Student preferences and reasons for/against using standing desks provide foundational evidence for standing desk interventions in this population.
Influence of cure parameters in polymer matrix composites using embedded optical fibers
Authors: Drake Daniel A , Sullivan Rani W , Spowart Jonathan E , Thorp Katie
Published: January 2020

The influence of cure processing parameters was investigated using strain distributions from embedded optical fibers. The determination of optimized cure parameters is often needed to achieve material properties which meet aerospace industry design requirements. Optical fibers were embedded near the midplane of thin (5 mm; [0/90/90/0]3s) composite laminates to monitor the internal strain during cure for two different cure cycles (manufacturer-recommended and an alternative two-step cure). Each laminate was fabricated using a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding process. The internal strain with respect to the spatial position and time were monitored. During cure, greater variations in the strain near the vicinity of the laminate edges were observed. However, a two-step cure cycle revealed that the variation of strain near the laminate edges is reduced. The results demonstrate the capability of high-spatial resolution optical fibers to measure the in-situ cure and residual strain during the processing of composite structures.
Dynamic Assessment for Identifying Spanish-Speaking English Learners’ Risk for Mathematics Disabilities: Does Language of Administration Matter?
Authors: Cho Eunsoo , Fuchs Lynn S. , Seethaler Pamela M. , Fuchs Douglas , Compton Donald L.
Published: January 2020

We examined dynamic assessment’s (DA’s) added value over traditional assessments for identifying Spanish-speaking English learners’ (ELs) risk for developing mathematics disabilities, as a function of the language of test administration (English vs. Spanish), type of math outcome, and EL’s language dominance. At the start of first grade, ELs ( N = 368) were randomly assigned to English-DA or Spanish-DA conditions, were assessed on static mathematics measures and domain-general (language, reasoning) measures in English, and completed DA in their assigned language condition. At year’s end, they were assessed on calculation and word-problem solving outcomes in English. Results from multigroup path models indicated that Spanish-DA mitigates the impact of ELs’ language dominance on DA performance. Moreover, ELs’ language dominance moderated DA’s predictive validity differentially depending on DA language and type of outcome. Spanish-DA showed higher predictive validity in Spanish-dominant ELs than English-dominant ELs when predicting calculations but not word-problem solving. English-DA was predictive for both outcomes, regardless of ELs’ language dominance.
Spatial inequality in the city-regions in the Yangtze River Valley, China
Authors: Li Huan , Wei Yehua Dennis , Swerts Elfie
Published: January 2020

The city-region has emerged as an important scale of state spatial strategy in China to promote equitable and sustainable development. This study investigates the spatial inequality of city-regions in the Yangtze River Valley (YRV) in terms of population, land, GDP and productivity, and examines changing patterns and factors of GDP per capita. We find that the spatial form of the YRV is typical of city-regions in China, where population density and productivity around mega-cities are much higher and decline from the low to the middle and upper reaches of the YRV. We also find that inequality across city-regions is high, and that most inequality is due to differences within city-regions. We find that the YRV is driven by capital-intensive and labour-intensive growth, with an emerging significance of productivity. Our analysis reveals the significance of institutional factors, including the processes of marketisation, globalisation, decentralisation and urbanisation in regional development. Moreover, the importance of the non-state sector in economic growth has been increasing, while the role of globalisation has been declining.
Job distress and burnout among Tanzanian and Sudanese health professionals: a comparative study
Authors: Hamid Abdalla AM , Abdullah Abdullah Seif
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to explore and compare the levels of distress and burnout among Sudanese and Tanzanian health professionals. Cluster random sampling was used to select 72 nurses and physicians of both genders from each country. The participants’ age range was 21 years to 55 years ( Mage = 31.51, SD = 7.22). The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey and the General Health Questionnaire were used to collect data. Nonpsychotic psychiatric disorders were more prevalent among Tanzanian health professionals compared to their Sudanese counterparts. T-test results revealed that Tanzanian health professionals experienced significantly higher levels of distress, somatic symptoms, depression, and social dysfunction than their Sudanese counterparts. ANOVA and MANOVA results indicated significant demographic differences in distress and burnout between health professionals from both countries. In addition, Sudanese participants reported higher levels of emotional exhaustion and lower personal accomplishment, while Tanzanians reported higher levels of depersonalisation. It was concluded that nurses from both countries were more prone to distress, while physicians were more susceptible to burnout. Our findings may assist researchers and administrators to improve the mental health of health professionals, particularly in Africa, and enhance their ability to provide better services.
A National Survey of Teaching and Learning Research Methods: Important Concepts and Faculty and Student Perspectives
Authors: Gurung Regan A. R. , Stoa Rosalyn
Published: January 2020

In this study, we assessed instructor and student attitudes and knowledge toward research methods (RM). Instructors ( N = 62) answered questions about course format, topic importance, and resources. Students ( N = 166) of some of those instructors answered questions regarding attitudes toward research. Five major factors organize topics that instructors find most important. Only ratings of statistics importance varied by rank. Associate and full professors rated statistics as being more important than other instructors. There were significant relationships between attitudes toward and knowledge of RM together with the higher perceived utility of some course components. Requiring students to conduct their own research was not a significant predictor of attitudes or RM knowledge.
Who benefits most? Predicting the effectiveness of a social and emotional learning intervention according to children’s emotional and behavioural difficulties
Authors: Carroll Annemaree , Houghton Stephen , Forrest Kylee , McCarthy Molly , Sanders-O’Connor Emma
Published: January 2020

School-based social and emotional learning (SEL) programmes represent a practical method of improving social and emotional well-being in students. To date, however, what is less well understood is why a theoretically sound, appropriately administered, engaging universal SEL programme may be more effective for some children over others. In the present study, an established SEL programme, KooLKIDS Whole of Class, was delivered to 524, 8 to 12-year-old Australian primary school students. Classroom teachers completed pre- and post-measures regarding children’s social-emotional competence and emotional and behavioural difficulties. Hierarchical linear modelling was used to examine which characteristics predicted differential improvement from the programme. Findings revealed that the pre-programme total score on emotional and behavioural difficulties was the strongest predictor of improvements in SEL, independent of age, sex or socioeconomic status. This implies that while universal SEL programmes represent an effective and relatively low-cost method of improving social competence for all children, they may be particularly effective for improving social and emotional competence in those with greater emotional and behavioural difficulties.
Validity evidence for a sentence repetition test of Swiss German Sign Language
Authors: Haug Tobias , Batty Aaron Olaf , Venetz Martin , Notter Christa , Girard-Groeber Simone , Knoch Ute , Audeoud Mireille
Published: January 2020

In this study we seek evidence of validity according to the socio-cognitive framework (Weir, 2005) for a new sentence repetition test (SRT) for young Deaf L1 Swiss German Sign Language (DSGS) users. SRTs have been developed for various purposes for both spoken and sign languages to assess language development in children. In order to address the need for tests to assess the grammatical development of Deaf L1 DSGS users in a school context, we developed an SRT. The test targets young learners aged 6–17 years, and we administered it to 46 Deaf students aged 6.92–17.33 ( M = 11.17) years. In addition to the young learner data, we collected data from Deaf adults ( N = 14) and from a sub-sample of the children ( n = 19) who also took a test of DSGS narrative comprehension, serving as a criterion measure. We analyzed the data with many-facet Rasch modeling, regression analysis, and analysis of covariance. The results show evidence of scoring, criterion, and context validity, suggesting the suitability of the SRT for the intended purpose, and will inform the revision of the test for future use as an instrument to assess the sign language development of Deaf children.
Greedy parabolics: Wind flow direction within the deflation basin of parabolic dunes is governed by deflation basin width and depth
Authors: Smyth Thomas AG , Delgado-Fernandez Irene , Jackson Derek WT , Yurk Brian , Rooney Paul
Published: January 2020

Parabolic dunes are ‘U’ or ‘V’-shaped aeolian landforms that form on pre-existing sand deposits. Their morphology consists of an upwind deflation basin, bordered by often vegetated trailing arms and a downwind depositional lobe. The orientation of parabolic dunes is commonly attributed to the prevailing or resultant wind direction. Consequently, the orientation of parabolic dunes stabilised by vegetation growth has been used as a proxy for wind direction during past climates in several studies. However, the ability or extent of parabolic dune morphology to steer incident wind flow parallel to the orientation of the landform, and thus migrate in the direction of the current landform orientation rather than prevailing wind direction, is unknown.

By numerically modelling wind flow within the deflation basin of eight parabolic dunes, we demonstrate for the first time that wind flow direction within the deflation basin of a parabolic dune is highly controlled by the depth and width of the deflation basin. The greater the depth–width ratio of the landform (i.e. the deeper and narrower the deflation basin), the greater the degree of flow steering relative to the axis orientation of the landform. These results demonstrate that future studies must exercise caution when using parabolic dune orientation as a direct proxy for prevailing wind direction, especially where parabolic dunes have a relatively high deflation basin depth–width ratio, as the deflation basin of these landforms may continue to migrate in an antecedent wind direction.
The Effect of National Family Caregiver Support Program Services on Caregiver Burden
Authors: Zebrak Katarzyna A. , Campione Joanne R.
Published: January 2020

Extant evidence on the effectiveness of caregiver programs in alleviating caregiver burden is mixed, underscoring the need for further investigations. This study evaluated the effect of the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) educational services and respite care on caregiver burden. We used survey data from caregivers assigned to program ( n = 491) or comparison ( n = 417) group based on their reported use of NFCSP services. Adjusted difference-in-differences (DiD) analysis found an increase in mean burden scores for both groups from baseline to 6 or 12 months. Among program caregivers receiving ≥4 hr of NFCSP respite care per week ( n = 307) and matched comparisons ( n = 370), burden scores decreased slightly for program caregivers (−0.095 points), but increased for comparison caregivers (+0.145 points). The DiD (0.239 points) was not statistically significant. More research is needed to determine the minimum amount of respite care needed to positively impact caregiver burden.
Dosimetric Feasibility of Cone-Beam CT in Pediatric Image-Guided Retrograde Gastrostomy Tube Insertions
Authors: Shkumat Nicholas A. , Brashdi Yahya Al , Volodina Sabina , Parra Dimitri , Connolly Bairbre L.
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in interventional radiology allows volumetric imaging with open patient access. This work aimed to assess radiation dose metrics of CBCT in simulated image-guided retrograde gastrostomy (IGRG) tube insertions in pediatric anthropomorphic phantoms and to compare them to measured radiation dose metrics obtained using fluoroscopy during clinical IGRG tube insertions in children.

Methods:

Radiation dose indices obtained from radiation dose structured reports of fluoroscopic IGRG tube insertions were retrospectively evaluated in a consecutive cohort of 30 children. Dose indices were fractionated into 3 clinical stages for each procedure ( planning, insertion, and confirmation). These 3 stages in 30 patients (3 × 30 = 90 patient stages) were compared to dose indices measured from 4 CBCT acquisition protocols acquired in pediatric phantoms.

Results:

The mean proportion of radiation dose during planning, insertion, and confirmation was 35%, 38% and 27%, with mean reference-point air kerma (range) measured to be 1.0 (0.02-6.0) mGy, 0.9 (0.03-4.1) mGy, and 0.7 (0.04-3.7) mGy, respectively. Cone-beam computed tomography dose varied greatly depending on technical parameters and protocol selection, ranging from 0.7 to 39.3 mGy. In 19% of patient stages, the most dose-sparing CBCT protocol evaluated on phantoms delivered less radiation than the radiation dose indices recorded from patient’s fluoroscopy.

Conclusions:

From a dosimetric perspective, radiation delivered in CBCT can vary widely, yet can be appreciably low. With appropriate CBCT protocol selection, the radiation dose delivered may be sufficiently low to warrant consideration for use, if clinically needed during difficult IGRG tube insertions, and satisfy the interventionalist’s benefit–risk assessment.
Canadian Radiology Medical Student Interest Groups: What They Are and How We Can Help Them Improve
Authors: Lang C. M. , McNicholas Danielle , Wilson Mitchell P. , Hartery Angus , Probyn L. J. , Ward Robert
Published: January 2020

Background:

Radiology interest groups (RIGs) can serve as a means of increasing exposure of the radiology specialty early in the medical curriculum while also increasing educational opportunities. However, the organizational structure and various functions of individual RIGs in Canada are not well-documented. We performed a survey of all active RIGs in Canada for the purpose of better understanding their structure, function, and opportunities for improvement.

Methods:

A 21-question survey was sent to current or recent former medical student leaders of all active RIGs in Canada during the 2016-2017 academic year.

Results:

Radiology interest groups were identified in 88% (15/17) of Canadian medical schools. We received a 100% (15/15) response rate. Events held by RIGs consist mostly of lunch and learns (67%, 10/15), career panels (53%, 8/15), networking events (40%, 6/15), and curriculum-related events (40%, 6/15). General mentorship (93%, 13/14), shadowing opportunities (86%, 12/14), and research mentorship (63%, 8/14) were most often cited in their top 3 choices for opportunities for improvement. Sixty-six percent indicated that if a radiology society were to host a page for their interest group, they would be interested in posting content and/or links.

Conclusions:

Canadian RIGs offer increased early awareness and education about radiology in the medical curriculum. Radiology departments can facilitate improvement in Canadian RIGs through targeted institutional mentorship, research opportunities, and shadowing programs for their members.
Improving Working Conditions to Support Special Educators’ Effectiveness: A Call for Leadership
Authors: Billingsley Bonnie , Bettini Elizabeth , Mathews Hannah Morris , McLeskey James
Published: January 2020

Special education teachers (SETs) are expected to use effective practices to improve outcomes for students with disabilities, yet even those who are well-prepared may not be effective in teaching these students, as problematic working conditions may limit their opportunities to teach effectively and their longevity in the profession. To complicate matters, the context of SETs’ work has changed, calling into question the nature of their roles in supporting student learning. The purpose of this article is to provide a broad overview of what is known about working conditions and to articulate how we might improve them. The authors identify key themes from the research literature about the relationship of SETs’ working conditions to their early experiences in schools and their burnout, attrition, and effectiveness. The authors then outline an action agenda focused on researching and leveraging the roles of varied stakeholders, teacher educators, educational leaders, and professional organizations to improve these conditions.
The Rise of Far-Right Civilizationism
Authors: Stewart Blake
Published: January 2020

In recent years the rise of far-right politics in North America and Europe has called into question the stability and cohesion of the so-called liberal international order. Scholars and commentators have argued that this swelling configuration of reactionary social forces threatens the future of western hegemony within a 21st century global capitalism. This essay reflects on the role of transnational organizations, organic intellectuals and elite actors in shaping the modern far-right movement. This essay will discuss the rise of a transnational ideology of the contemporary far-right which I call ‘far-right civilizationism’. This far-right ‘hegemonic project’ seeks to challenge the centrist global governance model of ‘neoliberal cosmopolitanism’, which has been dominant in the West since the end of the Cold War. The reactionary worldview of far-right civilizationism represents an alternative elite grand strategy for world order, purposed to refurbish elite hegemony during a period of profound structural crisis.
The unreliability of the minor: Class consciousness and its social effects
Authors: Ang Sze Wei
Published: January 2020

The minor helps us theorize the possibilities of agency because it first raises questions about legibility and reliability. This article takes the example of class dynamics in postcolonial Malaysia to understand why meaningful changes to culture can be difficult to achieve when class consciousness determines what is “proper” or “good” behavior. The minor has limited capacities to disrupt dominant cultures because unless minor subjects subscribe to normative values and behaviors they become illegible, that is, invisible and marginalized. They consequently possess limited cultural capital to effect change because they are assumed to be unreliable by dint of their illegibility.
A Cross-Country Comparison of Gender Traditionalism in Business Leadership: How Supportive Are Female Supervisors?
Authors: van Mensvoort Carly , Kraaykamp Gerbert , Meuleman Roza , van den Brink Marieke
Published: January 2020

This study investigates whether female supervisors hold less traditional attitudes towards gender in business leadership than male supervisors and non-supervisors, and whether these attitudinal differences vary between countries. It uses the sociological notions of self-interest and exposure and a multilevel approach to advance and expand the investigation of gender attitudes in the domain of business leadership. Two recent waves of the World Values Survey (2005/2009; 2010/2014) for 22 OECD countries were analysed with multilevel logistic regression. Findings indicated less gender traditionalism among female supervisors and among people living in countries with a larger share of women in managerial positions and a less traditional normative climate towards working women. No such attitudinal differences between individuals were found when comparing countries with and without a national legislative gender quota policy. Finally, men’s attitudes towards gender traditionalism in business leadership appeared to be more susceptible to the country context than those of women.
Topology optimization design of hydraulic valve blocks for additive manufacturing
Authors: Xie Guanlin , Dong Yongjia , Zhou Jing , Sheng Zhongqi
Published: January 2020

The hydraulic valve block is a core component of an integrated hydraulic system. In practical usage, it exhibits problems such as material waste, long manufacturing cycle, significant energy loss, and leakage. Based on the aforementioned existing problems, this study presents the design of the hydraulic system valve block based on the valve block design principle. The internal valve channel of the hydraulic valve block is optimized for additive manufacturing technology to avoid auxiliary drilling, solve the problem of potential liquid leakage, and shorten the manufacturing cycle. Thus, it is more suitable for the production of customized complex hydraulic valve blocks. The multiobjective topology optimization method is applied to the lightweight design of the hydraulic valve block to save resources and decrease energy consumption. The results indicate that when compared with the original model, the minimum reduction rate of pressure loss in each oil circuit orifice after optimization of the hydraulic valve block corresponds to 32.02%, the maximum corresponds to 71.38%; the maximum stress of the final design corresponds to 542.9 MPa, which satisfies the material strength requirement; and the mass is decreased by 68.9%. Thus, the lightweight design of the hydraulic valve block is realized.