bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When and Why Saying “Thank You” Is Better Than Saying “Sorry” in Redressing Service Failures: The Role of Self-Esteem
Authors: You Yanfen , Yang Xiaojing , Wang Lili , Deng Xiaoyan
Published: December 2019

In their initial recovery efforts after a service failure, service providers need to decide what to communicate to consumers to restore their satisfaction. Prior work has primarily examined apology (saying “sorry”) as a symbolic recovery strategy; the current research suggests appreciation (saying “thank you”) as an alternative, often more effective strategy. Drawing from research on linguistic framing and self-view, the authors reason that the shift of focus in the service provider–consumer interaction, from emphasizing service providers’ fault and accountability (apology) to spotlighting consumers’ merits and contributions (appreciation), can increase consumers’ self-esteem and, in turn, postrecovery satisfaction. Across multiple service failure contexts, Studies 1a–1e establish the superiority of appreciation in redressing service failures. By measuring and manipulating self-esteem and examining the moderating role of narcissism and recovery timing, Studies 2–5 provide converging evidence for consumers’ state self-esteem as the underlying mechanism. Studies 6 and 7 go beyond examining appreciation in isolation and show that it is as effective as recovery messages that combine appreciation and apology (Study 6) and that its superiority over apology holds when service providers combine symbolic and utilitarian recovery (Study 7).
Carrots and sticks: Experimental evidence of vote-buying and voter intimidation in Guatemala
Authors: Gonzalez-Ocantos Ezequiel , de Jonge Chad Kiewiet , Meléndez Carlos , Nickerson David , Osorio Javier
Published: December 2019

How do parties target intimidation and vote-buying during elections? Parties prefer the use of carrots over sticks because they are in the business of getting voters to like them and expect higher legitimacy costs if observers expose intimidation. However, their brokers sometimes choose intimidation because it is cheaper and possibly more effective than vote-buying. Specifically, we contend that brokers use intimidation when the cost of buying votes is prohibitively high; in interactions with voters among whom the commitment problem inherent to clientelistic transactions is difficult to overcome; and in contexts where the risk of being denounced for violence is lower. We probe our hypotheses about the different profile of voters targeted with vote-buying and intimidation using two list experiments included in an original survey conducted during the 2011 Guatemalan general elections. The list experiments were designed to overcome the social desirability bias associated with direct questions about illegal or stigmatized behaviors. Our quantitative analysis is supplemented by interviews with politicians from various parties. The analysis largely confirms our expectations about the diametrically opposed logics of vote-buying and intimidation targeting, and illuminates how both are key components of politics in a country with weak parties and high levels of violence.
Production of conductive bacterial cellulose-polyaniline membranes in the presence of metal salts
Authors: Kim Hyunjin , Eun Song Ji , Silva Carla , Kim Hye Rim
Published: December 2019

This study presents a cost-effective method of enhancing the electrical conductivity and washing durability of bacterial cellulose (BC)-polyaniline (PANI) membrane by the addition of metal salt. In this study, two types of metal salts were tested: copper (II) sulfate and iron (II) sulfate. The optimal condition to produce BC-PANI-metal salt membranes was 0.05% (w/v) of copper (II) sulfate (copper salt). X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the crystallinity of BC-PANI increased after adding copper salt. According to the increased degree of crystallinity, the polymer chain structure of BC-PANI-copper salt (BC-PANI-Cu) was more organized than that of BC-PANI, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. In addition, this ordered structure of BC-PANI-Cu indicated enhanced electrical conductivity. Moreover, the addition of copper salt improved the electrical conductivity of BC-PANI to a level about 3.8 times higher than that of BC-PANI produced without metal salt, and it retained about 40% of its original electrical conductivity after three washing cycles. From the results, the addition of copper salt improved both the electrical conductivity and washing durability of the BC-PANI membrane.
Lean production, work intensification and employee wellbeing: Can line-manager support make a difference?
Authors: Huo Meng-Long , Boxall Peter , Cheung Gordon W.
Published: December 2019

Using a two-wave survey of 315 workers in a lean manufacturing plant, this study examines how work intensification affects employee wellbeing and how its effects may be ameliorated. It demonstrates that work intensification is transmitted into poorer wellbeing through greater emotional exhaustion. It shows that this mediation process is moderated by line-manager support, which buffers the relationship between emotional exhaustion and wellbeing. The study suggests that the health-impairing risks of high work intensity in lean settings can be reduced through better supervisory support. Ensuring that line managers have the opportunity, skills and motivation to offer good support to workers is a vital aspect of the interventions needed to counteract the health risks posed by lean production.
On the 2019 Business Roundtable “Statement on the Purpose of a Corporation”
Authors: Harrison Jeffrey S. , Phillips Robert A. , Freeman R. Edward
Published: December 2019

The Business Roundtable, a large group of top CEOs, recently issued a statement defining the purpose of the corporation in stakeholder terms, a direct and intended reversal from an earlier statement that defined the duty of directors as serving the interests of stockholders. In this editorial, we briefly describe the major twists and turns in the stockholders-versus-stakeholders debate that make this statement so significant to management theory and practice. We then describe the implications of the statement for scholars and practicing managers. We end with a description of three specific research topics that require more research in light of this statement: firm boundaries, the nature of value creation systems, and theory regarding the destruction of stakeholder value.
Laryngeal Web in the Pediatric Population: Evaluation and Management
Authors: Lawlor Claire M. , Dombrowski Natasha D. , Nuss Roger C. , Rahbar Reza , Choi Sukgi S.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To discuss the presentation, evaluation, and management of pediatric laryngeal web.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Single tertiary care center.

Subjects

All patients with laryngeal web at Boston Children’s Hospital in the past 22 years.

Methods

No exclusion criteria. Charts mined for age at presentation, presenting symptoms, degree/location of web, associated syndromes, number/type of surgical procedures, and postoperative outcomes.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients were included (13 male, 24 female). Average age at diagnosis was 3.7 years (0‐19.5 years). Mean follow‐up was 4.4 years (range, 0‐16.4 years). There were 26 congenital webs (70.2%) and 11 acquired webs (29.8%). Presenting symptoms were vocal (29 patients, 78.4%) and respiratory (22 patients, 60%). Underlying syndromes or synchronous airway lesions included the following: premature (n = 5), congenital heart disease (n = 18), subglottic stenosis (n = 5), 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (n = 10), and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (n = 4). There were 20 type 1 webs, 6 type 2 webs, 8 type 3 webs, and 3 type 4 webs; 10 had subglottic extension of the laryngeal web. Twelve patients were managed conservatively with observation. Eighty‐four interventions were performed: 18 open and 66 endoscopic (sharp division, 32; dilation, 33; mitomycin C, 14; laser, 5; keel, 6; triamcinolone injection, 8; stent, 15; removal of granulation tissue, 5). Tracheotomy was required in 11 patients, and 5 patients were decannulated. Voice improved in 12 patients, with respiratory symptoms in 12 patients. Web recurred in 17 patients. One patient died due to airway complications.

Conclusions

Pediatric laryngeal web is an uncommon but challenging lesion. Patients need to be evaluated for comorbid syndromes and synchronous airway lesions. Management includes open and endoscopic procedures. Procedures should be tailored to the child’s presentation.
The softness distribution index: towards the creation of guidelines for the modeling of soft-bodied robots
Authors: Naselli Giovanna A , Mazzolai Barbara
Published: December 2019

Modeling soft robots is not an easy task owing to their highly nonlinear mechanical behavior. So far, several researchers have tackled the problem using different approaches, each having advantages and drawbacks in terms of accuracy, ease of implementation, and computational burden. The soft robotics community is currently working to develop a unified framework for modeling. Our contribution in this direction consists of a novel dimensionless quantity that we call the softness distribution index (SDI). The SDI for a given soft body is computed based on the distribution of its structural properties. We show that the index can serve as a tool in the choice of a modeling technique among multiple approaches suggested in literature. At the moment, the investigation is limited to bodies performing planar bending. The aim of this work is twofold: (i) to highlight the importance of the distribution of the geometrical and material properties of a soft robotic link/body throughout its structure; and (ii) to demonstrate that a classification based on this distribution provides guidelines for the modeling.
Therapeutic effect and mechanism of action of quercetin in a rat model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Jun , Yin Jing , Zhao Daohong , Wang Chaoran , Zhang Yuhao , Wang Yingsong , Li Tao
Published: December 2019

Objective

To study the therapeutic effect and mechanism of action of quercetin in a rat model of osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The OA rat model was established by intra-articular injection of papain. Changes in knee diameter, toe volume and histopathology were measured. Levels of interleukin (IL)-β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were assessed by ELISA. Relative expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) was evaluated by western blotting.

Results

Compared with rats treated with papain alone, changes in knee diameter, toe volume and Makin' s score were less apparent in OA rats treated with quercetin. Levels of serum IL-1β and TNF-α were also reduced in quercetin-treated OA rats. Expression of TLR-4 and NF-κB was significantly suppressed in a dose-dependent manner in quercetin-treated OA rats.

Conclusion

Quercetin exhibited a therapeutic effect in OA rats, which may be related to inhibition of IL-1β and TNF-α production via the TLR-4/NF-κB pathway.
Lesions and Cellular Tropism of Natural Rift Valley Fever Virus Infection in Young Lambs
Authors: Odendaal Lieza , Davis A. Sally , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Clift Sarah J.
Published: December 2019

A clear distinction can be made regarding the susceptibility to and the severity of lesions in young lambs when compared to adult sheep. In particular, there are important differences in the lesions and tropism of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) in the liver, kidneys, and lymphoid tissues of young lambs. A total of 84 lambs (<6 weeks old), necropsied during the 2010 to 2011 Rift Valley fever (RVF) outbreak in South Africa, were examined by histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Of the 84 lambs, 71 were positive for RVFV. The most striking diagnostic feature in infected lambs was diffuse necrotizing hepatitis with multifocal liquefactive hepatic necrosis (primary foci) against a background of diffuse hepatocellular death. Lymphocytolysis was present in all lymphoid organs except for the thymus. Lesions in the kidney rarely progressed beyond hydropic change and occasional pyknosis or karyolysis in renal tubular epithelial cells. Viral antigen was diffusely present in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes, but this labeling was noticeably sparse in primary foci. Immunolabeling for RVFV in young lambs was also detected in macrophages, vascular smooth muscle cells, adrenocortical epithelial cells, renal tubular epithelial cells, renal perimacular cells, and cardiomyocytes. RVFV immunolabeling was also often present in capillaries and small blood vessels either as non-cell-associated viral antigen, as antigen in endothelial cells, or intravascular cellular debris. Specimens from the liver, spleen, kidney, and lungs were adequate to confirm a diagnosis of RVF. Characteristic lesions were present in these organs with the liver and spleen being the most consistently positive for RVFV by IHC.
Diffuse Leptomeningeal Oligodendrogliomatosis in a Cow
Authors: Kauer Ronja V. , Bagatella Stefano , Oevermann Anna
Published: December 2019

A 4.5-year-old cow showing neurological signs consistent with predictors of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) was investigated as a potential BSE-suspect case and proved to be negative. Macroscopic analysis revealed a tan neoplastic mass growing along the leptomeninges of the caudal brain and extending into the third (III) ventricle without significantly involving the neuroparenchyma. Pathological features (uniform round hyperchromatic neoplastic cells embedded in abundant myxoid matrix, microcysts, microvascular proliferation) and diffuse Olig2 expression were most consistent with diffuse high-grade leptomeningeal oligodendrogliomatosis. In line with former reports of extensive leptomeningeal involvement in bovine oligodendroglioma, this report suggests that bovine oligodendroglial tumors have a strong propensity to grow within the leptomeningeal space. In addition, it indicates that Olig2 is a useful marker to confirm glial lineage in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded bovine tissue.
Extinguishing performance of alcohol-resistant firefighting foams on polar flammable liquid fires
Authors: Zhi Huiqiang , Bao Youquan , Wang Lu , Mi Yixing
Published: December 2019

The protection of polar flammable liquid storage tanks from fire is an important matter related to the safe production of enterprises and to the safety of people’s lives and property. Although the foam fire-extinguishing system has long been the main means for the fire protection of flammable liquid storage tanks, the influence of the physical properties of polar flammable liquids on the fire-extinguishing characteristics of alcohol-resistant foams has not been well studied, which causes many problems for engineering design. In the present work, 14 kinds of polar flammable liquids were used to carry out non-ignition tests and alcohol-resistant foam fire-extinguishing tests. The results show that water-miscible and water-immiscible polar flammable liquids exhibit significant differences in their interactions with the alcohol-resistant foams under non-ignition conditions. A lower specific gravity and a higher heat of combustion of polar flammable liquids will result in a longer time needed for fire control, and a higher saturated vapor pressure of polar flammable liquids will result in a longer time needed to extinguish the edge fire. In addition, the tests show that the forceful application of alcohol-resistant foams is not conducive to extinguishing fires involving polar flammable liquids and cannot even control the fires.
Grammatical pragmatics: Language, power and liberty in Ghanaian political discourse
Authors: Obeng Samuel Gyasi
Published: December 2019

This study demonstrates the interconnectedness between language, power and liberty. Using two of Dr Joseph Boakye Danquah’s letters written to President Nkrumah (Ghana) and working within the frameworks of language and power and language and liberty (Obeng, present article), we demonstrate that although by being candid, Ghanaian political actors in opposition risk personal danger, such actors have strategies for seeking the protection of their liberty (positive and negative) and for challenging powerful political actors’ actions. The syntactic features used for seeking liberty include factives, antithetic constructions, collocations and voice; the discourse-pragmatic features include inferencing, political pronouns, presupposition, in-group anthroponyms, politeness and metalanguage. In conclusion, language behavior in Ghana’s political ecology is intricately coordinated with political actors’ worldview of and stance on liberty and their willingness to speak candidly instead of giving up on words.
Liberating Structures as Pedagogical Innovation for Inclusive Learning: A Pilot Study in a Norwegian University
Authors: Singhal Arvind , Perez Lauren E. , Stevik Kristin , Mønness Erik , Svenkerud Peer Jacob
Published: December 2019

Liberating Structures (LS) are simple and concrete tools that can enhance group performance in diverse organizational settings. They do so by organizing participants in different spatial arrangements and group configurations and by distributing participation and sequencing steps. In this article, we report on a pilot implementation of LS in several classrooms of a business school in a mid-sized Norwegian University. Our research is centred around four guiding research questions to gauge students’ experience of LS, including their sense of inclusion, engagement and LS’ pedagogical effectiveness. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a quantitative survey, participant observation and debriefing conversations and informal interviews with instructors and students who experienced LS. An exploratory survey instrument was employed to measure the various attributes of LS, and four dimensions were identified and validated. Our findings suggest that LS are easy to implement, help increase participation, have the potential to enhance learning and can represent an effective pedagogical alternative to traditional lecture-centred classrooms. Our pilot study suggests that LS hold the creative potency to enhance both the instructor pedagogical experience and the student learning experience. By identifying the limitations of our pilot study, we call for more rigorous assessments of LS in the future.
Stealing Thunder in Negative Political Advertising: The Persuasive Impact of One-sided and Two-sided Negative Messages on Partisan Individuals
Authors: Kim Kenneth
Published: December 2019

Although two-sided persuasion is a common technique in political speeches, few research has reported the relative persuasiveness of a one-versus two-sided message in the context of negative political advertising. Participants ( N = 116) viewed a negative political ad, varying in message sidedness (one-sided vs. two-sided) and partisan match (partisan-match vs. partisan-mismatch vs. unaffiliated). Multivariate results revealed the relative advantage of two-sided persuasion in the partisan-match condition where participants viewed a negative ad targeting their supporting party candidate. One-sided persuasion was more effective in the partisan-mismatch condition where participants viewed a negative ad criticizing the opposition party candidate. Implications for the practice of strategic negative political campaigns were discussed.
Combining multiple approaches to valuing in the MUVA female economic empowerment programme
Authors: King Julian
Published: December 2019

Evaluation and economics each have distinct approaches to valuing. These approaches are traditionally separated by disciplinary boundaries. However, they can and should be combined. Value for money (VFM), in particular, is a shared domain of the two disciplines, because it is an evaluative question about the economic problem of resource use. A theoretical and practical model for combining valuing approaches has been developed through doctoral research. This article presents and reflects on an example – an international development programme where VFM has been assessed using mixed methods (qualitative, quantitative and economic). Under this approach, evaluative reasoning provides the means for integrating economic values with other criteria and evidence. Deliberation with stakeholders strengthens the valuing process, enhancing validity, credibility and use.
Transforming Higher Education Culture: Teacher Education in Kosovo
Authors: Gilbert Jenny , Pratt-Adams Simon
Published: December 2019

Demand for a radical overhaul of teacher education in Kosovo led one Faculty of Education to modernize and improve the university-based preparation of teachers, and so deliver a new competence-based school curriculum. Moving to this learner-centered model of education required transformation in the culture of teacher educators. In order to evaluate the efforts to effect this cultural change, we adopted an unusual action research method, Soft Systems Methodology that recognizes the varying aims and perceptions of stakeholders. These data were holistically captured with the use of metaphors addressing what needs to be done and how things have happened.
Syndesmotic Overload in 3-Component Total Ankle Replacement
Authors: Ruiz Roxa , Susdorf Roman , Krähenbühl Nicola , Barg Alexej , Hintermann Beat
Published: December 2019

Background:

Mobile-bearing total ankle replacement (TAR) potentially enables motion at the tibial implant–polyethylene insert (PI) interface. Such additional freedom of movement may overload periarticular ligaments and subsequently result in coronal translation of the talus. The aim of this study was to assess whether syndesmotic overload affects clinical and radiographic outcomes following mobile-bearing TAR and whether tibiofibular fusion is an effective treatment option.

Methods:

Thirty-one patients who underwent revision surgery for syndesmotic overload after mobile-bearing TAR were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed before and after index TAR, preoperatively to revision surgery, and at the last follow-up after revision surgery. Computed tomography scans were also analyzed.

Results:

Ankles with lateral talar translation prior to revision surgery were about 10 times more likely to have valgus tibial implant position ( P = .003). A wide tibiofibular distance at the level of the syndesmosis after index TAR was associated with an increased hindfoot moment arm at revision surgery ( P = .025). Decrease of PI height at revision surgery and a PI fracture were evident in 10 (32%) and 4 (13%) cases, respectively. Talar cyst formation at revision surgery was evident in 12 (39%) cases. Tibiofibular fusion was effective in restoring function of the replaced ankle and providing pain relief.

Conclusion:

Syndesmotic overload impaired clinical and radiographic outcomes after mobile-bearing TAR. Proper implant positioning and additional realignment procedures may prevent overload of periarticular soft tissue structures after mobile-bearing TAR.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Intercultural Competencies Needed for Evolving Media Professions: Educating the Next Generation of Globally Minded Communicators
Authors: Miño Pablo , Gibson Rhonda
Published: December 2019

This mixed-methods study was designed to determine which global competencies are most sought after in college students and recent graduates who are applying for internships and jobs that are international in scope. A survey of 40 mostly U.S.-based global communicators in strategic communication and journalism and subsequent in-depth interviews revealed that respect for other cultures, listening/observation skills, and understanding others’ worldviews were highly valued. It was also recommended that college graduates have experience traveling abroad and a global network of contacts to enhance their job prospects. Implications for updating college curricula and extracurricular opportunities are explored.
Long-term mortality after massive, submassive, and low-risk pulmonary embolism
Authors: Gupta Rajesh , Ammari Zaid , Dasa Osama , Ruzieh Mohammed , Burlen Jordan J , Shunnar Khaled M , Nguyen Hanh T , Xie Yanmei , Brewster Pamela , Chen Tian , Aronow Herbert D , Cooper Christopher J
Published: December 2019

Guidelines for management of normotensive patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE) emphasize further risk stratification on the basis of right ventricular (RV) size and biomarkers of RV injury or strain; however, the prognostic importance of these factors on long-term mortality is not known. We performed a retrospective cohort study of subjects diagnosed with acute PE from 2010 to 2015 at a tertiary care academic medical center. The severity of initial PE presentation was categorized into three groups: massive, submassive, and low-risk PE. The primary endpoint of all-cause mortality was ascertained using the Centers for Disease Control National Death Index (CDC NDI). A total of 183 subjects were studied and their median follow-up was 4.1 years. The median age was 65 years. The 30-day mortality rate was 7.7% and the overall mortality rate through the end of follow-up was 40.4%. The overall mortality rates for massive, submassive, and low-risk PE were 71.4%, 44.5%, and 28.1%, respectively ( p < 0.001). Landmark analysis using a 30-day cutpoint demonstrated that subjects presenting with submassive PE compared with low-risk PE had increased mortality during both the short- and the long-term periods. The most frequent causes of death were malignancy, cardiac disease, respiratory disease, and PE. Independent predictors of all-cause mortality were cancer at baseline, age, white blood cell count, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, female sex, and initial presentation with massive PE. In conclusion, the diagnosis of acute PE was associated with substantial long-term mortality. The severity of initial PE presentation was associated with both short- and long-term mortality.
The relationship between social experience and subjective well-being in autistic college students: A mixed methods study
Authors: Bailey Kathryn M , Frost Kyle M , Casagrande Karís , Ingersoll Brooke
Published: December 2019

This mixed methods study examined the relationship between the college social experience and subjective well-being in autistic students in the Midwestern United States. An online survey focused on social connectedness, social participation, social support, and subjective well-being. A semi-structured interview discussed transition, supports received, and social participation. Correlations and a hierarchical regression were used to examine the relationship between social experience variables and subjective well-being from the survey. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify interview themes. Theme counts for students who reported higher and lower subjective well-being were examined. Social connectedness, time spent with friends, and perceived social support were positively correlated with students’ subjective well-being, with social connectedness explaining unique variance. Common themes included challenges navigating a new social environment and the importance of family, friends, and professors in providing social support. Students with lower subjective well-being more frequently discussed struggles to make social connections and the trade-off between socializing and succeeding academically, whereas students with higher subjective well-being more frequently described college as providing opportunities to develop meaningful social connections. This study adds new perspectives on the college experience for autistic students and highlights the important role that social connections and support play in their subjective well-being.
Auditory event-related potentials and associations with sensory patterns in children with autism spectrum disorder, developmental delay, and typical development
Authors: Donkers Franc CL , Carlson Mike , Schipul Sarah E , Belger Aysenil , Baranek Grace T
Published: December 2019

Atypical sensory response patterns are common in children with autism and developmental delay. Expanding on previous work, this observational electroencephalogram study assessed auditory event-related potentials and their associations with clinically evaluated sensory response patterns in children with autism spectrum disorder ( n = 28), developmental delay ( n = 17), and typical development ( n = 39). Attention-orienting P3a responses were attenuated in autism spectrum disorder relative to both developmental delay and typical development, but early sensory N2 responses were attenuated in both autism spectrum disorder and developmental delay relative to typical development. Attenuated event-related potentials involving N2 or P3a components, or a P1 × N2 interaction, were related to more severe hyporesponsive or sensory-seeking response patterns across children with autism spectrum disorder and developmental delay. Thus, although attentional disruptions may be unique to autism spectrum disorder, sensory disruptions appear across developmental delay and are associated with atypical sensory behaviors.
From the unbelievable to the undeniable: Epistemological pluralism, or how conspiracy theorists legitimate their extraordinary truth claims
Authors: Harambam Jaron , Aupers Stef
Published: December 2019

Despite their stigma, conspiracy theories are hugely popular today and have pervaded mainstream culture. Increasingly, such theories expanded into large master schemes of deceit where ‘everything is connected’. Moving beyond discussions of their truthfulness, we study in this article how such ‘super conspiracy theories’ are made plausible. We strategically selected the case study of David Icke – a true celebrity in conspiracy circles and main proponent of such all-encompassing narratives – to analyze his discursive strategies of legitimation: How does he support and validate his extraordinary claims? It is our argument that Icke succeeds by exploiting multiple sources of epistemic authority; he draws eclectically on ‘experience’, ‘tradition’, ‘futuristic imageries’, ‘science’ and ‘social theory’ to convince his audience. In a Western culture without any full monopoly on truth, and for a people wary of mainstream authorities, it proves opportune to draw on a wide variety of epistemic sources when claiming knowledge.
Constitutional promises of indigenous recognition: Canada, Vanuatu and the challenges of pluralism
Authors: Corrin Jennifer , Young Simon
Published: December 2019

The Constitutions of Canada and Vanuatu commit to recognition of ‘Aboriginal rights’ and ‘customary laws’, respectively. The translation of these aspirations has led the courts deep into the challenges of pluralism, magnified here by the weight of colonialism and constitutional context. This article explores the progress in these two contrasting countries to provide a broader view of the undertaking. It is argued that the persistence of visible problems reveals more fundamental difficulties and that the collaboration essential to the task of ‘recognition’—and to shoring up Western legal systems in the modern reality—must begin earlier and run deeper.
Research note: Measurement of blue light hazard risk level using a hyperspectral camera
Authors: Shibuya T , Akiba T , Iwanaga T
Published: December 2019

Using a calibrated hyperspectral camera, we evaluated the hazard risk level of blue light illumination using the IEC TR 62778:2014 method. The risk levels obtained using the hyperspectral camera were compared with those obtained using the method described in the IEC 62471:2006 guidelines. The IEC TR 62778:2014 risk level of each test product was the same as that obtained using the IEC 62471:2006 method. Compared with the evaluation method implemented using a conventional single-point measurement, our approach using a hyperspectral camera obtained spectral radiance measurements in a much shorter time, of the order of several seconds, via two-dimensional measurements.
Effect of interfacial modifiers and wood flour treatment on the rheological properties of recycled polyethylene/wood flour composites
Authors: Hong Haoqun , Guo Quannan , Zhang Haiyan , He Hui
Published: December 2019

The article presents the preparation of a high-performance wood–plastic composites with improved interfacial interactions by adding ternary-monomer graft copolymers as the interfacial modifiers and by braising wood flour (WF) and investigates their effects on the rheological properties of recycled polyethylene (rPE)/WF composites. The processing properties, capillary rheological properties, dynamical rheological properties, and mechanical properties were investigated. Results show that graft copolymer of polyethylene is effective in improving the interfacial interactions of rPE/WF composites, dramatically changing the rheological and mechanical properties. The braising of WF enlarges the gaps of cells and promotes the infiltration of rPE into the gaps, as promoting the increasing in mechanical properties of rPE/WF composites and significantly changing the rheological properties of the composites.
EEG Theta/Beta Ratio Calculations Differ Between Various EEG Neurofeedback and Assessment Software Packages: Clinical Interpretation
Authors: Kerson Cynthia , deBeus Roger , Lightstone Howard , Arnold L. Eugene , Barterian Justin , Pan Xueliang , Monastra Vincent J.
Published: December 2019

The quantitative electroencephalographic (QEEG) theta/beta power ratio (TBR) has been shown to have an association with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with a previous tacit assumption of equivalence across hardware and software systems. Therefore, the International Collaborative ADHD Neurofeedback (ICAN) randomized clinical trial used a fixed TBR ≥ 4.5 cutoff as measured by the Thought Technology Monastra-Lubar Assessment Suite as an inclusion criterion, 1.5 SD above norms collected with that system. However, a difference was noted between the TBR calculated by that assessment suite and the TBR computed by EEGer, the neurofeedback software used for treatment, leading us to investigate the discrepancy. The difference may arise from different calculation methods. This article explains and compares various computational methods used to calculate and display EEG values, including TBR, elucidating why the values are not equivalent across equipment and software programs. Two major sources of variance are (1) how “spectral leakage” at the ends of bands is handled and (2) whether voltages of bins within a band are first averaged and then squared to get bandwidth power or are first squared to get power (turning negative voltages into positive power) and then averaged to get the bandwidth power; the latter method results in higher band power. This article compares methods of computing the TBR. Biofeedback practitioners and investigators should be aware of the algorithms their systems use when interpreting TBRs and require normative comparison data collected with the same system.
The communitarian attitudes of religious Zionist female adolescents to democracy in Israel
Authors: Gross Zehavit
Published: December 2019

The aim of this qualitative research is to investigate how religious Zionist female adolescents ( N = 40) construct and deconstruct their perceptions of democracy within the ‘postsecular’ Israeli society as a result of their intensive, religious Zionist education and socialization process promoted by Israeli schools which subscribe to this ideology within the Israeli state religious education system. This study found that female graduates from the national religious schools were influenced by political theology which was promoted through their schools’ education and socialization processes. The findings highlighted the graduates’ belief in the Jacobin communitarian approach to democracy; their focus on Liebman’s concept of expansionism; and the challenges these approaches pose for maximal civic education in Israel.
Visual spatial attention and spatial working memory do not draw on shared capacity-limited core processes
Authors: Howard Christina J , Pole Rebekah , Montgomery Paulina , Woodward Amanda , Guest Duncan , Standen Bradley , Kent Christopher , Crowe Emily M
Published: December 2019

The extent to which similar capacity limits in visual attention and visual working memory indicate a common shared underlying mechanism is currently still debated. In the spatial domain, the multiple object tracking (MOT) task has been used to assess the relationship between spatial attention and spatial working memory though existing results have been inconclusive. In three dual task experiments, we examined the extent of interference between attention to spatial positions and memory for spatial positions. When the position monitoring task required keeping track of target identities through colour-location binding, we found a moderate detrimental effect of position monitoring on spatial working memory and an ambiguous interaction effect. However, when this task requirement was removed, load increases in neither task were detrimental to the other. The only very moderate interference effect that remained resided in an interaction between load types but was not consistent with shared capacity between tasks—rather it was consistent with content-related crosstalk between spatial representations. Contrary to propositions that spatial attention and spatial working memory may draw on a common shared set of core processes, these findings indicate that for a purely spatial task, perceptual attention and working memory appear to recruit separate core capacity-limited processes.
Assessment of scapholunate instability with dynamic computed tomography
Authors: Athlani Lionel , Rouizi Kamel , Granero Jonathan , Hossu Gabriela , Blum Alain , Dautel Gilles , Gondim Teixeira Pedro Augusto
Published: December 2019

We performed a prospective study to evaluate the values of dynamic four-dimensional computed tomography in assessing suspected chronic scapholunate instability. Forty patients were evaluated with radiographs, arthrography, and four-dimensional computed tomography. On plain radiographs and computed tomography, we found 16 patients with definite scapholunate instability, five with questionable scapholunate instability, and 19 with absence of scapholunate instability. We used four-dimensional computed tomography to evaluate the size of the scapholunate gap during radioulnar deviation. The mean and maximal values of the gap size were lowest in the patients with absence of scapholunate instability and highest in those with definite scapholunate instability. When comparing the scapholunate gap sizes of the patients with absent and questionable scapholunate instability, the range of the gap sizes was significantly higher in the patients with questionable scapholunate instability. We conclude that four-dimensional computed tomography aids assessment of chronic scapholunate instability, which allows the differentiation between patients without and those with definite or questionable scapholunate instability.

Level of evidence: II
Hedging Functions in Malaysian Doctoral Candidature Defense Sessions
Authors: Zainuddin Siti Zaidah , Damiano-Nittoli Alexander Charles , Zainal Azlin Zaiti
Published: December 2019

The main aim of the present study is to build knowledge and understanding regarding the linguistic use of hedging by Malaysian speakers of English in academic spoken discourse and, more specifically, doctorate students presenting their thesis in the candidature defense. It looks not only to describe the specific nature of spoken academic hedging in Malaysia but to make inroads into identifying cultural factors that shape the way this hedging takes place. To realize these aims, a corpus-based investigative case study that used both quantitative and qualitative methods was used. Transcriptions of candidature defenses and semi-structured interviews regarding the nature of doctoral candidature defense were used to gather the data. The study found that national culture and the dynamic power distance in the educational culture surrounding the defense had an effect on the interpersonal hedging used by Malaysian speakers and the gap in hedging use between panel members and candidates. Disciplinary culture was also observed to influence hedging, specifically in referencing other work and testing theory to build an argument.
Tribe and Tribal Welfare in Gandhian Thoughts
Authors: Chakrabarty Kakali
Published: December 2019

Gandhi is best known for his sarvodaya movement where he talked of ‘welfare for all’. His focus was on the deprived section of the countrymen who constituted a majority of India’s population. Thus, the term was often referred to as antodaya, i.e., ‘Rise to the last men’. Gandhi was not very particular about ‘tribe’, as to him, tribes were a part of rural communities who were exploited by the powerful class of people; thus, they required welfare measures. Gandhi’s mission and vision towards tribes was mainly an outcome of his constant association with Thakkar Bapa, who had been well exposed to the exploitation and helpless misery of tribal life, especially of the Bhil people of Gujarat under the British rule. To Gandhi, tribal welfare and rural welfare were same. However, he believed that tribals were simple people. His interaction with the Zulu people in Africa exposed him to the bare truth of exploitation of the tribal people by the colonial rulers.

To his idea, the tribes should be approached on the basis of non-violence, accepting the principles of a democratic society and the fundamental equality and unity of man. The process of social domination and political imposition should be avoided. Welfare measures should be taken up on the basis of understanding their society and culture. Gandhi’s concept of Sarvodaya, i.e., welfare of all also had a purpose to bring the majority of Indians in the struggle for independence. He believed that India’s independence cannot be achieved without participation of its rural masses that formed the majority of Indian population.

Gandhi dreamt of a society with equity among all members in fundamental necessities of life including education. His dream is yet to be chased.
Comparison of Neuromuscular Firing Patterns of the Superficial Quadriceps in Soft Tissue Quadriceps Tendon Versus Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone ACL Autografts
Authors: Letter Michael , Baraga Michael G. , Best Thomas M. , Kaplan Lee D. , Buskard Andrew N.L. , Catena Lauren , Eltoukhy Moataz , Oh Joenghoon , Strand Keri , Signorile Joseph
Published: December 2019

Background:

Soft tissue quadriceps tendon (QT) autografts are increasingly popular as a primary graft choice for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), but no study has compared superficial quadriceps activity levels and leg extension strength for QT versus bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) autografts.

Hypothesis:

Harvesting the central portion of the QT will alter rectus femoris (RF) firing patterns during maximum voluntary isometric contraction.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 34 patients (age range, 18-40 years) who underwent ACLR using a BTB (n = 17) or QT (n = 17) autograft at a single institution participated in this study. Participants, who had no neuromuscular injury or prior surgery on either lower extremity, were at least 1 year after ACLR, and were cleared for full activity. Postoperative rehabilitation protocols were consistent across participants. Synchronized electromyography (EMG) and isometric torque data were collected from participants in the seated position with the hips flexed to 90° and the knee at 60° of flexion. Participants were asked to extend their knees as quickly as possible and perform maximum voluntary isometric contraction for 3 seconds. A practice trial and 3 test trials were completed with 30-second rest intervals. Mixed (2 graft × 2 limb) analyses of variance were used to examine differences in average and peak torque values and RF/vastus lateralis (VL) and RF/vastus medialis (VM) ratios. Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were compared between groups using unpaired t tests.

Results:

Significantly lower values were seen for the operative compared with the nonoperative extremity for average ( P = .008; η2 = 0.201) and peak torque ( P < .0001; η2 = 0.321), with no significant difference between graft types. Additionally, no significant differences in RF/VL or RF/VM ratios between limbs or graft types were observed.

Conclusion:

At 1 year after ACLR, QT and BTB autografts showed similar isometric strength deficits, with no differences in quadriceps muscle EMG ratios seen between the 2 graft types. The results support the use of a QT autograft for ACLR, as its graft harvest does not adversely affect quadriceps firing patterns in comparison with BTB graft harvest.
Prevalence and risk factors of pre-sick building syndrome: characteristics of indoor environmental and individual factors
Authors: Nakayama Yoshitake , Nakaoka Hiroko , Suzuki Norimichi , Tsumura Kayo , Hanazato Masamichi , Todaka Emiko , Mori Chisato
Published: December 2019

Background

With the aim to prevent sick building syndrome and worsening of allergic symptoms, primarily resulting from the indoor environment, the relationships among people’s residential environment in recent years, their lifestyle habits, their awareness, and their symptoms were investigated using an online survey.

Methods

In the survey, respondents experiencing symptoms specific to sick building syndrome, although they were not diagnosed with sick building syndrome, were categorized in the pre-sick building syndrome group. The relationships among individual characteristics, residential environment, and individual awareness were analyzed.

Results

Results showed that the prevalence of pre-sick building syndrome was high among young (aged 20–29 years) population of both sexes. In addition, “condensation,” “moisture,” “musty odors” in the house, and the “use of deodorant and fragrance” were all significantly associated with pre-sick building syndrome. Conversely, there was no significant association with recently built “wooden” houses that are highly airtight and have thermal insulation.

Conclusions

Efficient “ventilation” plans and “ventilation” improvement and air conditioning systems to prevent mold and condensation in rooms are necessary to maintain a good, indoor environment that is beneficial for health. Efforts should also be made to encourage individuals to regularly clean and effectively ventilate their homes.
Correction to: Recommendations for performance optimizations when using GATK3.8 and GATK4
Authors: Heldenbrand Jacob R. , Baheti Saurabh , Bockol Matthew A. , Drucker Travis M. , Hart Steven N. , Hudson Matthew E. , Iyer Ravishankar K. , Kalmbach Michael T. , Kendig Katherine I. , Klee Eric W. , Mattson Nathan R. , Wieben Eric D. , Wiepert Mathieu , Wildman Derek E. , Mainzer Liudmila S.
Published: December 2019

Following publication of the original article [1], the author explained that Table 2 is displayed incorrectly. The correct Table 2 is given below. The original article has been corrected.
Retraction Note: Risk factors, clinical presentations and predictors of stroke among adult patients admitted to stroke unit of Jimma university medical center, south west Ethiopia: prospective observational study
Authors: Fekadu Ginenus , Chelkeba Legese , Kebede Ayantu
Published: December 2019

The Editor and Publisher have retracted this article [1]. This article was published as the result of a technical error which resulted in two versions [1, 2] of the same article being published. [2] is the final version of the article. Springer Nature apologises to the authors and to readers for the inconvenience caused. All authors agree with this retraction.