bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional inferences of mating orientations through body fat and sex-typical body features
Authors: Brown Mitch , Boykin Kaitlyn , Sacco Donald F.
Published: January 2022

Identifying reproductive opportunities and intrasexual rivals has necessitated the evolution of sensitivity to features diagnostic of mate value. In determining the presence of good genes through physical features, individuals may additionally infer targets’ short- and long-term mating orientations. This study tested how individuals perceive men’s and women’s orientations through physical features conducive to reproductive goals. Participants evaluated mating orientations of male and female targets varying in size of sex-typical features (i.e., muscles or breasts) and adiposity. Greater adiposity connoted long-term mating orientations. Large muscles and breasts connoted short-term mating orientations. We frame results from an affordance management framework with respect to inferences regarding parental investment and intrasexual competition.
Tension pneumocephalus following cranioplasty with a titanium plate: a case report
Authors: Sawada Haruna , Ozaki Tomohiko , Nakajima Shin , Kidani Tomoki , Kanemura Yonehiro , Nishimoto Keisuke , Yamazaki Hiroki , Taki Kowashi , Fujinaka Toshiyuki
Published: January 2022

Tension pneumocephalus (TP) can be a life-threatening postoperative complication, but there are limited data owing to its exceedingly low frequency. A 48-year-old man that suffered a head injury survived the acute phase and cranioplasty was performed using a titanium plate. Progressive deterioration of consciousness occurred the day after the cranioplasty. Computed tomography showed the presence of expanded air in the left epidural cavity and a midline shift to the right side. Emergency skin flap reopening was performed. Tension of the scalp decreased when the skin suture was cut and the wound reopened. Lucidity and improved right hemiparesis were obtained within a few hours after drain insertion. Pooled air in the left epidural cavity gradually dissipated postoperatively and the epidural drain was removed 2 days after insertion. The patient was discharged 27 days after cranioplasty, with a modified Rankin scale score of 2. The mechanism that caused TP was considered. Specifically, the skin flap acted as a one-way valve and trapped air. Then the trapped air expanded as the patient’s body temperature warmed. TP should be considered a differential diagnosis after craniotomy. Emergency skin flap reopening and drain insertion may be an effective treatment for TP in the epidural space.
The Effectiveness of an Online Learning Strategy on Changing Physical Activity Counseling Practice in Nurses
Authors: Karvinen Kristina H. , Reed Treva
Published: January 2022

Background

Nurses may be well poised for providing physical activity guidance and support to patients.

Purpose

The purposes of this study were to examine the effectiveness of a concise, evidence based online learning modules strategy (OLMS) for improving nurses’ physical activity counselling.

Methods

68 nurses were randomly assigned to either an OLMS group or control group. The OLMS group completed a series of six online learning modules aimed at improving physical activity counselling practice.

Results

The OLMS group, compared to the control group, showed a trend for improvement in Physical Activity Counselling Practice ( p = .063) after controlling for baseline values, and significant improvement in (a) Self-efficacy for Physical Activity Counselling ( p = .001), (b) Knowledge of Physical Activity Guidelines, ( p = .031), and (c) Perceived Benefits of Physical Activity Counselling ( p = .014) over the course of the intervention. No significant change was found for Barriers for Providing Physical Activity Counselling ( p > .05).

Conclusions

The OLMS tested may be an effective means for improving self-efficacy, knowledge, and perceived benefits of physical activity counselling, suggesting the utility of online learning strategies for improving nurses’ physical activity counselling practice. Given barriers to providing physical activity counselling were not affected by the intervention, future interventions and policy change could target these barriers specifically in order to give nurses more tools and time for reaching patients and addressing physical activity counselling in practice.
Implementation of partial magnetic fields to magneto-thermal convective systems operated using hybrid-nanoliquid and porous media
Authors: Biswas Nirmalendu , Mondal Milan K. , Manna Nirmal K. , Mandal Dipak Kumar , Chamkha Ali J.
Published: January 2022

Application of partial magnetic field can be useful for controlling thermal convective processes occurring in magneto-thermal devices/systems. The present work aims to demonstrate the implementation of a partial magnetic field using a typical thermal system. This study explores both local transport phenomena and global heat transfer rates. The partial magnetic fields involving multiphysical conditions find many applications in electronic industries, medical, and health science. The paper presents a conceptual finding from the use of a partial magnetic field on a classical porous cavity comprising Cu−Al2O3/water hybrid nanoliquid heated differentially. The partial magnetic field is functional either horizontally or vertically. The finite volume technique is employed to the coupled transport equations subjected to particular boundary situations using a developed computing code. The simulations are accomplished to a great extent with different variables such as the Darcy-Rayleigh number (Ram), Darcy number (Da), Hartmann number (Ha), and hybrid nanoparticles concentrations ( φ). The effects of magnetic field widths and their positional variations in horizontal and vertical directions are also analyzed. The study found that the convective transport process could effectively be modulated by setting the appropriate position, widths, directions, and intensity of the imposed magnetic fields. The partial magnetic field causes a decrease in heat transfer ∼17.15% or 9.71% less compared to the whole length horizontal or vertical magnetic field. The application of partial magnetic fields significantly alters local thermo-fluid flow phenomena and advancement in heat transfer characteristics in comparison to the magnetic fields acting over the entire domain. Furthermore, the heatline visualization tools reveal the insight of the heat flow dynamics, which dictates the selection of appropriate parametric values and magnetic field configurations.
A scaled framework for analysis of crack propagation in teeth using equivalent inorganic materials
Authors: Khoei Mahdi Ahmadi , Darvizeh Atanaz , Sadeghi Hamed , Maghrour Alireza , Darvizeh Abolfazl
Published: January 2022

Experimental investigations of teeth are significantly impeded with the main impediments being small dimensions involved and ethical issues associated with in vivo testing. On the other hand, numerical simulations which can be used as an alternative method have their own inherent limitations which are being reliant on constitutive and boundary information, and also numerical predictions should be validated with experimental findings. Hence, it is necessarily required that experimental tests are conducted on equivalent models which should inevitably be made out of different materials. However, there is no any known method to predict the crack propagation and fracture behavior of structures using equivalent models made from different materials. The present paper aims to propose a scaling method based on the finite similitude theory which has recently been appeared in open literatures to investigate the crack propagation and fracture behavior of teeth in which different materials can even be used for scaled models. The effectiveness of the developed scaling method is examined using the Abaqus finite element software by employing the J-integral, cohesive zone model (CZM), and extended finite element method (XFEM). By conducting the compressive numerical experiments, it is revealed that although the exact prediction of the behavior of a tooth using equivalent models made out of inorganic materials is impossible, it can be anticipated to a good accuracy. Also, the response characteristics of the tooth subjected to a cyclic loading which can be imposed during the act of chewing are anticipated to a good accuracy using the scaled up trial model made out of zirconia which demonstrates the high capability of the proposed method in practical applications.
Corrosion resistance and metallurgical behaviour of CMT welded Al-LCS dissimilar butt joint exposed in simulated industrial environment
Authors: Selvamani S.T. , Yoganandan G. , Bakkiyaraj M , Sivamaran V
Published: January 2022

Cold Metal Transfer welding is a predominant process for joining the Aluminium and Low Carbon Steel (LCS) dissimilar joints with enhanced properties. In addition, these joints have vast application in various simulated industrial environmental conditions. However, the formation of thick intermetallic layers during welding over these joints leads to invoking the corrosion attack and causing a catastrophic failure that is the primary concern in life prediction of the joint. Hence, the corrosion behaviour of AL-LCS dissimilar butt joint exposed in the simulated industrial environment has been studied experimentally and it has been compared with the Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) welded aluminium and LCS similar joints. The potentiodynamic polarization and the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were carried out in 3.5% aggressive sodium chloride medium with varying benzotriazole corrosion inhibitor with varying the concentrations like 10 ppm, 15 ppm and 20 ppm. The results showed that the corrosion resistance behaviour of CMT welded dissimilar joints are increased with increasing inhibitor concentration. The inhibitor showed effective performance, and the efficiency is also found to be 78–80% at 20ppm, which revealed the enhanced corrosion resistance of dissimilar metal joints in simulated industrial conditions. Finally, the dissimilar joints are characterized by sophisticated analytical techniques.
COVID-19 in real time: comparing the struggle of three low-income neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires
Authors: Cohen Michael , Gutman Margarita , Díaz Matias Ruiz , Fodde María Belén , Cabrera Cecilia , Doldan Bárbara Mora , Díaz Carolina
Published: January 2022

This article seeks to explain why some popular neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires have responded more effectively than others to COVID-19. It compares actions that took place between March and October 2020 in the neighbourhoods of Villa 20, Villa 15 and Villa 1-11-14. We analyse public policies carried out by government agencies, especially the Instituto de Vivienda de la Ciudad (IVC) and the Ministerio de Desarrollo Humano y Hábitat (MDHyH), and the active collaboration of local organisations. While significant scholarship has focused on COVID-19 effects and coping strategies in Latin American neighbourhoods, there is limited analysis of how pre-existing relationships between local actors and government agencies have shaped neighbourhood responses. This comparative analysis shows that in fact the consolidation and depth of historical working relations between local government and local organisations determined the response capacity of each informal neighbourhood.
Application of RALS cointegration test assessing the role of natural resources and hydropower energy on ecological footprint in emerging economy
Authors: Emir Firat , Karlilar Selin
Published: January 2022

This paper assesses the nexus between natural resource rent, hydropower energy consumption and ecological footprint for environmental sustainability incorporating with economic performance by using yearly data from 1970 to 2017. To this end, the long run steady-state relationship among investigated variables has been analyzed by using newly established Residual Least Squares (RALS) method and confirmed for Turkish economy. The directions and magnitudes of the effects of these variables on ecological footprint were tested by using Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) technique. The findings, except hydropower energy consumption, reveal statistically significant and positive effects of investigated variables on ecological footprint. Moreover, the inverted U-shaped EKC hypothesis was also affirmed between economic performance and ecological footprint. The causal relationship among these variables were also tested by using VECM Granger causality test The unidirectional Granger causality relationships were found that they are running from ecological footprint, and natural resource rent to economic performance, from natural resources to ecological footprint and from natural resource rent to economic performance in Turkish economy. Additionally, the bidirectional causal relationship has been detected among economic performance and ecological footprint in Turkey. The findings highlight the importance of investigated variables on ecological footprint in Turkey.
Saying the unsayable: The online expression of mothers’ anger during a pandemic
Authors: Pedersen Sarah , Burnett Simon
Published: January 2022

This article investigates key triggers for mothers’ anger during the COVID-19 pandemic and some of the positive and negative consequences of its expression online. It uses the UK online parenting forum Mumsnet as a research context and source of data. Our findings support previous research into mothers’ anger during COVID-19 that suggests that the pandemic has both exacerbated longstanding sources of conflict and created new ones within their homes. This anger is frequently repressed because women need to continue to work and cohabit with the colleagues and family members who have caused this anger. However, we also identify a further trigger for mothers’ anger – their frustration at the government's perceived inaction and mis- or even dis-information about the pandemic. This anger can be exacerbated by mainstream media reports and also the sharing of suspicions and complaints on online forums such as Mumsnet. Mumsnet therefore offers a safe space for the venting of women's anger during lockdown, but also a place where feelings of anger can be perpetuated and perhaps even aroused.
Guns on campus: An autoethnography of “concealed carry” policies
Authors: Graves Darci M.
Published: January 2022

In the United States, school shootings are a common social problem and frequently occur on both K-12 and college campuses. High profile school shootings have resulted in a growing number of state governments legalizing “concealed carry” on college campuses, increasing the presence of guns in classrooms. This research study employs qualitative autoethnography to present the author's experiences teaching on a campus where concealed carry was implemented in 2014. Through autoethnographic narratives, the author describes her lived experiences. This paper analyses these narratives using intersectional feminist theory and situates the narratives within the broader socio-cultural context of gun culture in the Pacific Northwestern USA. The author spent four years immersed in the culture of concealed carry, and has written multiple narratives detailing these experiences. Two narratives are presented in this work. Important findings in this work include examinations of: how the presence of guns in college classrooms shapes power dynamics; the use of fear-based curricula in active-shooter survival trainings; the cultural construction of the “good guy with a gun”; and the implications of the author's positionalities within gun culture. This research study encourages the reader to engage with and learn from the lived experiences of the author.
Does China have a public debate on genetically modified organisms? A discourse network analysis of public debate on Weibo
Authors: Jin Yan , Schaub Simon , Tosun Jale , Wesseler Justus
Published: January 2022

We examine stakeholder participation in the online debate on genetically modified organisms in China and assess how the debate has changed over time. Therefore, we compare messages posted between 2013 and 2020 on the Chinese microblog website Weibo by using discourse network analysis. Our findings reveal strong opposition to genetically modified crops, along with the existence of two competing coalitions of supporters and opponents. We further observe an increasing number of posts supporting genetically modified organisms by the public in recent years. Consequently, there is an indication that the positions of stakeholders have changed over time. We discuss the policy implications for China and draw conclusions for other countries.
Work from Home During the Pandemic: The Impact of Organizational Factors on the Productivity of Employees in the IT Industry
Authors: Patanjali Systla , Bhatta N. M. K.
Published: January 2022

Since the virus was first identified in the city of Wuhan, China, in November 2019, the novel Coronavirus Disease or COVID-19, has spread all over the world and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it as a pandemic. Everywhere, it has spread damage to life, the economy, organizations, employees and employment, including in India, forcing organizations to move to a Work from Home (WFH) business model to ensure continuity of operations. We reviewed a volume of literature on work, organizations, productivity and WFH and their impact both from a historical perspective and the ongoing research in the context of the pandemic. The lockdowns are a recent phenomenon and research studies on consequent WFH are limited. This study is one of the first major studies on WFH during the pandemic. Our research focussed on a sample of 526 professionals from the IT sector working across the globe. The research showed that about two thirds of IT employees reported an increased productivity while at WFH, making effective use of the time saved from commuting, as well as to meet increased expectations. The article examines the impact of WFH during the lockdown on the productivity of the IT employee, with particular reference to organizational factors. The research makes use of quantitative analysis as well as qualitative answers from respondents to our questionnaire in arriving at our final findings. The findings indicate that organizational factors, such as autonomy and empowerment, independence to employees, and a supportive environment were necessary for ensuring the productivity of employees, even during a WFH situation. We also find that continued WFH over several months had induced a sense of fatigue.
The decline and fall of the Australian automotive industry
Authors: Conley Tom
Published: January 2022

This article assesses the historical political economy of the Australian automotive industry alongside the paradigmatic policy shift in economic policy away from protection towards neoliberalism and globalisation. It focuses on the politics of policy change and government assistance, providing a detailed historical narrative of the development and decline of the Australian automotive industry. From the mid-1980s to the mid-2010s, policy-makers oversaw the decline and fall of the Australian automotive industry. The process of decline occurred within a long-term cycle of new assistance, declining protection, new investment, inadequate restructuring, weak profitability, declining market share, and new assistance. Each cycle, however, was unable to stave off renewed crisis and eventual demise. Over the same period, Australian policy-makers transformed the economy from one of the most protectionist in the developed world to one of the most open. The article outlines the impact of neoliberalism on the automotive industry and analyses what the decline of the industry tells us about how the neoliberal policy structure operates in the ‘actually existing’ political economy. It argues that while the burgeoning neoliberal policy structure in the 1980s and 1990s acted to restrict the range of policy choices available for restructuring the industry, the domestic politics of industry assistance acted to restrict the neoliberal colonisation of the policy agenda. Neoliberal governance has had to contend with political imperatives for continuing assistance, while, at the same time, those political imperatives have been increasingly shaped by neoliberalism.
Neoliberal Logics: An Analysis of Texas’s STAAR Exam Writing Prompts
Authors: Jacobson Brad , Bach Amy
Published: January 2022

This article adds to a growing body of research tracing the influence of neoliberal education reforms on policy and practice by showing the ways in which student writers are positioned within market-oriented discourses and values through Texas state exam writing prompts. As a genre-in-use, the writing prompts are seemingly mundane texts that privilege certain perspectives for viewing the world. This article uses critical discourse analysis to examine seven years of Texas state exam high school writing prompts, focusing on how the grammatical design of the prompts and the recontextualization of informational texts or quotes demonstrate traces of neoliberal logics such as individualism, self-reliance, and superficial multiculturalism. We call for critical pedagogies that help teachers and students resist the naturalization of dominant discourses and imagine collective responses to creating a more just world.
Opportunities to Learn for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Effects of the Perceived Efficacy of Teacher Practices and Drivers of Inclusion
Authors: Latorre-Cosculluela Cecilia , Liesa-Orús Marta , Rivera-Torres Pilar
Published: January 2022

One of the factors linked to the successful inclusion of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the idea that the attitudes of teaching professionals are related to the perceived efficacy of educational practices. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between the perceived efficacy of a set of practices specifically aimed at children with ASD and the perceived drivers and attitudes toward their full inclusion. We estimated a structural equation model that included socioprofessional variables of the 454 teachers taking part in the study. The results show that greater efficacy of the practices implemented with children with ASD results in more positive attitudes toward the education of these children in inclusive settings. Similarly, drivers of inclusion also improve teachers’ attitudes toward these children. The findings suggest the need to improve teacher training and provide teachers with the resources necessary to adapt their practices to all children.
Income Inequality and Bullying Victimization and Perpetration: Evidence From Adolescents in the COMPASS Study
Authors: Pabayo Roman , Benny Claire , Veugelers Paul J. , Senthilselvan, PhD Ambikaipakan , Leatherdale Scott T.
Published: January 2022

Previous research indicates that the disproportionate distribution of income within society is associated with aggression and violence. Although research has been conducted identifying the relationship between income inequality and bullying victimization and perpetration, little is known about possible mediators. We investigated the association between income inequality and bullying perpetration and victimization among adolescents participating in the Cannabis, Obesity, Mental health, Physical activity, Alcohol use, Smoking, and Sedentary behavior (COMPASS) study. We identified whether school connectedness and psychosocial well-being mediated the relationship between income inequality and bullying behavior. This study used pooled cross-sectional data from 147,748 adolescents aged 13 to 18 from three waves (2015–2016, 2016–2017, 2017–2018) of the COMPASS study from 157 secondary schools in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec (Canada). The Gini coefficient was calculated based on the school Census Divisions (CD) using the Canada 2016 Census and linked with student data. We used multilevel modeling to investigate the relationship between income inequality and self-reported bullying victimization and perpetration, while controlling for individual-, school-, and CD-level characteristics. A standard deviation increase in Gini coefficient was associated with increased odds for bullying victimization and perpetration. Findings were observed among girls; however, inequality was only associated with perpetration among boys. We identified social cohesion and psychosocial well-being as potential mediators. To counter the adverse effects of income inequality, school-based interventions designed to increase school connectedness and student psychosocial well-being should be implemented to protect against bullying.
Detection of plasma complement and immune globulin in different sorts of glaucoma
Authors: Chen Jiabao , Jiang Chunxia , Huang Qinying , Lin Xiaoxuan , Wu Wencan , Li Jinying
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To compare the plasma immune globulin and complement levels in different sorts of glaucoma to assess its association.

Methods

Cohort study. Plasma samples were collected from 226 normal controls and 236 glaucoma patients included 92 with acute primary angle-closure glaucoma (APACG), 76 with chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (CPACG), 68 with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). 163 glaucoma patients with high intraocular pressure(IOP) was classified as a subgroup. Six indexes were analyzed: C3, C4, CH50, IgA, IgG, and IgM.

Results

There was a significant difference in C4, IgA, IgG, and IgM between patients with high IOP and normal controls groups( P < 0.01). TheC4 (0.27 ± 0.69 g/L), IgA (3.11 ± 1.04 g/L), IgG (12.07 ± 1.92 g/L) and IgM (1.17 ± 0.49 g/L) were higher( P < 0.05) in the high IOP groups compared with the normal controls (C4:0.25 ± 0.07 g/L, IgA: 2.54 ± 1.07 g/L, IgG: 11.21 ± 2.22 g/L, IgM:0.99 ± 0.41 g/L). There was a significant difference in age, C3, IgA, IgG, and IgM among the normal control, APACG, CPACG, and POAG. The C3 level in the APACG group (1.14 ± 0.16 g/L) was higher than normal group (1.06 ± 0.18 g/L). The IgA level was lower(P < 0.05) in the normal group (2.54 ± 1.07 g/L) compared with APACG (3.16 ± 0.97 g/L) and POAG group (2.91 ± 1.11 g/L). The IgG level of normal controls (11.21 ± 2.22 g/L) was lower (P < 0.05) than APACG group (12.15 ± 2.02 g/L) and CPACG group (11.95 ± 2.28 g/L). The IgM level was lower(P < 0.05) in the normal group (0.99 ± 0.41 g/L) compared with the APACG (1.24 ± 0.66 g/L) and CPACG group (1.17 ± 0.45 g/L).

Conclusions

The levels of the plasma expression of C3, IgA, IgG, IgM may be useful for discriminating the glaucoma patients and for assessing the progress of glaucoma in different sorts.
Scientific contributions of Duncan Dowson to Tribological Studies of Artificial Joints
Authors: Zhang Xiaogang , Zhang Yali , Li Junyan , Jin Zhongmin
Published: January 2022

Professor Duncan Dowson is one of the most famous scientists in the field of tribology. His pioneering research established a systematic methodology in the study of the biotribology of artificial joints. In particular, elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory was introduced and further developed to simulate and understand the lubrication behaviors and mechanisms of artificial joints. Novel apparatuses were built and extensively used to conduct numerical guided experiments, among which the joint simulator is the most important one and still widely used today for pre-clinical evaluations. In this fashion, the tribological behavior of artificial joints is understood by the “well-balanced” and “mutually supportive” theoretical and experimental researches. His scientific contribution is an important reflection of the development history of artificial joint biotribology. In addition, he had also greatly promoted the development of multidisciplinary engineering and medical science, as well as the education in medical engineering. The current article reviews Professor Dowson's scientific contributions in the field of artificial joint biotribology. It presents an in-depth understanding and provides an important reference for future research and development of the biotribology of artificial joints.
‘Go Home, Get a Job, and Pay Some Taxes to Replace a Bit of What You’ve Wasted’: Stigma Power and Solidarity in Response to Anti-Open-Cast Mining Activism in the Coalfields of Rural County Durham, UK
Authors: Brock Andrea , Stephenson Carol , Stephens-Griffin Nathan , Wyatt Tanya
Published: January 2022

This article explores the nexus of stigmatisation and environmental activism in the Campaign to Protect Pont Valley against open-cast mining in the northeast of England. Drawing on Imogen Tyler’s work, our analysis examines stigma power as embedded in wider efforts to police and repress environmental dissent and defend core neoliberal values. Examination of qualitative interviews with campaigners, drive-past insults shouted at activists, online police statements and public responses, and online trolling of activists by mining employees and the wider public reveals stigmatisation to be a process of power, informed by neoliberal ideologies (of the threat and danger of worklessness), and reproduced through neoliberal power structures (the state, corporate power, and popular culture), shaped by the insecurities that are specific to social and political contexts. We show how the state mobilises stigma through ideologies associated with austerity and the hostile environment to delegitimate activism through association with worklessness/idleness and the inaccurate representation of activists as part of broader processes of criminalisation, policing, and management of protest. In an area renowned for its work ethic and high levels of unemployment, the work of environmental activists is dismissed as illegitimate, drawing on tropes associated with the disciplining of the so-called deviant working classes. The historical importance of coal and activism in the defence of the ‘mining way of life’ feeds into dominant narratives associated with work and individualism. Pride associated with coal mining is reconfigured and forms the basis of insults against those (working class and otherwise) who are recast as ‘outsiders’, ‘wasting time and money’ in resisting environmental destruction. Finally, we examine how activists were able to largely deflect stigmatisation through collective engagement, solidarity, and political analysis of the process they were subject to.
Adjustable tongue crib
Authors: Raghu Ram RSVM , Sunil G , Ranganayakulu I , Viswanadh K Anand , Sukumar B
Published: January 2022

Thumb sucking and tongue thrusting habits are mostly counteracted and rehabilitated using a tongue crib. Most patients find the conventional crib difficult (due to its position and length) in the initial days of treatment and become uncooperative. Hence, few modifications are made to the traditional design of the tongue crib for easy adjustment of the crib height and angulation, which provides comfort to the patient.
Determining metrics for broadening participation in computing: Connecting data to multi-state computer science education policy efforts
Authors: Dunton Sarah , Zarch Rebecca , Xavier Jeffrey , Warner Jayce , Peterfreund Alan
Published: January 2022

Facilitating the development of a common framework for monitoring progress in K-12 computer science (CS) education and advocacy with an emphasis on broadening participation is the key to constructing strong CS education policy. Based on a project that brought together leadership teams from six states, a framework for measuring broadening participation in computing (BPC) and setting the foundation for national scaling was developed. Built around a collaboration of leaders representing experience in data gathering, data analysis, data reporting, and data utilization, this project applied the tenets of collective impact to address the challenge of consistently measuring progress toward BPC across state contexts. By establishing a common agenda, including mutually agreed upon definitions of computer science education and broadening participation, these leaders guided the selection of metrics. This led to the development of shared measurement systems and built a deeper understanding of state data systems across the participating states. This phase resulted in common goals and a monitoring system to measure BPC efforts that could inform state policy efforts. Mutually reinforcing activities included the development and sharing of tools, allowing stakeholders to quickly and accurately analyze and disseminate data that drives BPC measurement and policy work. Guided by backbone support to coordinate the work and continuous communication, meaningful participation of all stakeholders was central to the project. Making the case for CS education policy via common metrics and measuring progress across a region stands to impact BPC policy efforts across the United States. The common framework developed in this project serves as a call to action, especially for state and local education agencies committed to increasing diversity in computer science pathways.
Orbital Atherectomy Prior to Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty in Calcified Infrapopliteal Lesions: A Randomized, Multicenter Pilot Study
Authors: Zeller Thomas , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Brodmann Marianne , Werner Martin , Andrassy Martin , Schmidt Andrej , Blessing Erwin , Tepe Gunnar , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Optimal balloon angioplasty for infrapopliteal lesions is often limited by severe calcification, which has been associated with decreased procedural success and lower long-term patency.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective, randomized, multicenter pilot trial that included adult subjects with calcified lesions located from the popliteal segment below the knee (BTK) joint to within 5 cm above the ankle with ≥70% diameter stenosis by angiography. Patients were randomized 1:1 to undergo orbital atherectomy (OA) with adjunctive drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty versus plain balloon angioplasty (BA) and DCB angioplasty (control). The periprocedural and 12 month outcomes of both procedures were compared.

Results:

Overall, 66 subjects (OA + DCB = 32 vs control = 34) were included in an intention to treat analysis. Baseline demographics and lesion characteristics were well-balanced. The mean lesion length was 101.3 mm (SD = 72.8 mm) and 78.8 (SD = 61.0 mm) in the OA + DCB and control groups, respectively, with almost all lesions having severe calcification per the Peripheral Academic Research Consortium (PARC) criteria. Chronic total occlusions (CTOs) were present in 43.8% and 35.3% of the patients in the OA + DCB and control groups, respectively. The technical success of OA + DCB versus DCB was 81.8% and 89.2%, respectively, with 3 slow flow/no reflow, 1 perforation, 1 severe dissection occurred in OA + DCB group, and one distal embolization occurred in the control group. The target lesion primary patency rate was numerically higher in the OA + DCB versus control group at 6 (88.2% vs 50.0%, p=0.065) and 12 month follow-up (88.2% vs 54.5%, p=0.076). The 12 month freedom from major adverse events, clinically-driven target lesion revascularization, major amputation, and all-cause mortality rates were similar between both groups.

Conclusion:

The results of the Orbital Vessel PreparaTIon to MaximIZe Dcb Efficacy in Calcified BTK (OPTIMIZE BTK) pilot study indicated that utilization of OA + DCB is safe for infrapopliteal disease. Further prospective adequately powered studies should investigate the potential benefit of combined OA + DCB for BTK lesions.
Effect of Tendon Strip (FCR vs APL) on Outcome of CMC Thumb Joint Arthroplasty With Pyrocarbon Disk Interposition
Authors: van Laarhoven Cecile Maria Cornelia Agnes , Tong Marcus Chen Yee , van Heijl Mark , Schuurman Arnold Herman , van der Heijden Brigitte Egeberta Petronella Adriana
Published: January 2022

Background:

Pyrocarbon disk interposition for carpometacarpal (CMC) thumb joint osteoarthritis can be performed with a flexor carpi radialis (FCR) or abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon strip. With the FCR technique, a ligament reconstruction is performed in addition to disk fixation, whereas with the APL technique the disk is simply secured in place. Our aim is to compare long-term postoperative outcomes between both techniques.

Methods:

In this observational study, we included 106 patients in 2 centers operated on between 2006 and 2011. We assigned patients to the FCR group or the APL group based on the respective tendon strip used. As a primary outcome, we analyzed postoperative key pinch. In addition, we analyzed postoperative tip pinch and tripod pinch, grip strength, range of motion, thumb height maintenance, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Results:

The analysis showed clinically important stronger key pinch for the APL group (β = 1.28 kg). Tip pinch and grip strength showed higher outcome for the FCR group (β = 1.22 kg and 5.14 kg, respectively). Palmar abduction was in favor of the FCR group and opposition in favor of the APL group, but these were interpreted as not clinically relevant. Radiological thumb height maintenance and PROMs showed no clinical difference.

Conclusions:

Pyrocarbon disk interposition arthroplasty for CMC thumb joint osteoarthritis can be secured with an APL or FCR tendon strip. At long-term follow-up, use of an APL tendon strip results in significantly higher key pinch and better opposition. Tip pinch, grip strength, and palmar abduction were better after use of the FCR tendon strip. The choice of the tendon strip can be based on outcomes considered most important for the individual patient.
Experimental study on longitudinal vibration of mine hosting rope subjected to disturbance excitations by ADAMS
Authors: Zhu Yu , Xu Tong , Ma Chi , Yao Jiannan
Published: January 2022

The periodic and impact excitations caused by drum winding and interface misalignment of steel guides always result in hoisting instability in mine shafts. This paper focuses on investigating the longitudinal response of the lifting system subjected to the two disturbance excitations. First, the periodic velocity and acceleration excitation from an experimental model was derived. Second, the virtual prototype model for the longitudinal vibration of the hoisting rope subjected to the two excitations was built in ADAMS, and the validity of the established virtual prototype model was verified experimentally. Eventually, the acceleration of the conveyance under the disturbance excitations were effectively reduced by applying a vibration reduction device, and the virtual simulation results confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed device. This paper can provide a good scheme for the research of vibration reduction in mine hoisting systems.
Media Policies in Chile and Mexico. A Comparative Analysis in the Context of the Pacific Alliance (2012–2018)
Authors: Gómez Rodrigo , Sáez Chiara
Published: January 2022

This article presents a comparative study of media policies in Chile and Mexico as members of the Pacific Alliance agreement, using media clientelism as an articulating concept, assuming that it takes a particular form in the neoliberal countries of the continent. For this, five dimensions are compared: a) decrees and the implementation of laws; b) distribution and allocation of broadcasting licenses; c) anti-concentration measures; d) official advertising expenditure and e) governance public media. The results suggest that the institutional structures and inertia that became entrenched under the Chilean dictatorship still perpetuate a clientelistic relationship between the political system and media owners, which is reflected in the government's media policies. In Mexico, despite the progress made in the institutional regulatory design and implementation of media policies, these remain in a state of tension between clientelist practices and liberal democratic design.
The utility of bandemia in prognostication and prediction of mortality in sepsis
Authors: Prasanna Nivedita , DelPrete Benjamin , Ho Geoffrey , Yamane David , Elshikh Amira , Rashed Amir , Sparks Andrew , Davison Danielle , Hawkins Katrina
Published: January 2022

Background: Bandemia, defined as a band count >10%, is indicative of underlying infection and is increasingly being used for early detection of sepsis. While an absolute band level has been linked to worse outcomes, its trend has not been extensively studied as a prognostic marker. In this study, we assessed patients admitted to the ICU with sepsis or septic shock and evaluated the correlation between bandemia trends and clinical trajectory among these patients.

Methods: This study was a retrospective chart review. Band counts, serum lactate levels, and SOFA scores at 0 and 72 h after admission to the ICU were collected. Patients were risk stratified into groups depending on their SOFA trends, and corresponding band trends and serum lactate levels were compared.

Results: 134 patients were included for analysis. There was a statistically significant decrease in bandemia trends for patients with a reduction in SOFA scores [median (IQR)−4.5 (−11, 0); p < 0.0001], and a statistically significant increase in bandemia trends for patients with worsening SOFA scores [median (IQR) 4 (0, 8); p = 0.0007].

Conclusion: Early trends of serum band levels in patients with sepsis or septic shock may help to predict a clinical trajectory and overall prognosis. More investigation is warranted as to whether incorporating bandemia trends, when used in conjunction with other known markers such as lactate levels, may help to guide bedside clinical decisions such as risk stratification, tailored therapies, and ultimately improve outcomes.
Flavonoids and Phenolic Compounds From the Parasitic Gymnosperm Parasitaxus usta Endemic to New Caledonia
Authors: Iwashina Tsukasa , Tobe Hiroshi , Nakane Takahisa , Mizuno Takayuki , Jaffré Tanguy
Published: January 2022

Parasitaxus usta (Podocarpaceae) is the only parasitic gymnosperm and endemic to New Caledonia. In this survey, 11 flavonoids and 6 phenolic compounds were isolated from the aerial parts. As for flavonoids, six flavones, apigenin 7- O-glucoside (1), luteolin (2), luteolin 7- O-glucoside (3), chrysoeriol (4), chrysoeriol 7- O-glucoside (5) and tricetin 3′- O-glucoside (6), one C-glycosylflavone, orientin (7), one flavonol, quercetin 3- O-glucoside (8), one anthocyanin, cyanidin 3- O-glucoside (9), and two biflavones, isoginkgetin (10) and agathisflavone (11) were identified by UV, liquid chromatograph–mass spectra (LC-MS), acid hydrolysis, NMR and/or HPLC comparisons with authentic samples. On the other hand, six phenolic compounds were identified as 5- O- E- p-coumaroyl quinic acid (12), 5- O- Z- p-coumaroyl quinic acid (13), 5- O- E- p-coumaroyl quinic acid methyl ester (14), 5- O- Z- p-coumaroyl quinic acid methyl ester (15), E-caffeic acid methyl ester 3- O-β-glucopyranoside (16), and Z-caffeic acid methyl ester 3- O-β-glucopyranoside (17) by UV, LC-MS and NMR. Chemical components of P usta were reported in this survey for the first time. Their chemical characters were chemotaxonomically compared with those of other Podocarpaceae species.
Antithrombin Effect of Jidabokuippo and Identification of Active Compounds
Authors: Koike Yuka , Takamatsu Satoshi , Kurimoto Shin-ichiro , Kawazoe Kazuyoshi
Published: January 2022

Static blood (Oketsu) is a blood disorder of Kampo medicine. Many natural medicines have been used to cure static blood, and these drugs are called blood stasis-resolving formula. Some of these were reported to inhibit blood coagulation. Jidabokuippo (JDI), one of the blood stasis-resolving formulas, has been used to treat bruises and sprains. In this study, we evaluated the antithrombin activity of JDI and its active compounds using thrombin and an artificial substrate. Bioassay-guided isolation was performed for JDI, and the active compounds were identified using spectral data (NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry) by comparison with reported data. JDI depressed thrombin activity in a dose-dependent manner, ranging from 0.125 to 1 mg/mL. Chrysophanol-1- O-β-D-glucoside (1) and chrysophanol-8- O-β-D-glucoside (2) were obtained from JDI and showed thrombin inhibitory activity. This study provided the first report of the antithrombin effect of JDI and the isolation from it of two active compounds (1 and 2). These findings might contribute to the understanding of the mechanism of static blood and blood stasis-resolving formula.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Acylated Derivatives of Hederagenin as Inhibitors of HIV-1 and HCV NS3/4A Proteases
Authors: Liu Qing , Wei Ying , Hao Yongjia , Yang Jian , Pan Bowen , Yang Xiaosheng , Zhou Ying , Wang Xia
Published: January 2022

Viral infection imposes a major threat to human health. To develop new potent antiviral agents, Hederagenin (HE), a known inhibitor of HIV-1 and HCV NS3/4A proteases, was used as a starting material to synthesize 4 types of HE derivatives, HE-3,23-diacyl, HES-3,23-diacyl, HES-3-acyl, and HES-3-oxo-23-acyl. We evaluated the in vitro inhibitory activities of the derivatives against HIV-1 and HCV NS3/4A proteases. (3 β,23)-Di- O-diglutaryl-hederagenin (1b) and (3 β,23)-di- O-(3′,3′-dimethylsuccinyl-hederagenin ethyl ester (2b) exhibited potent inhibitory activities against the HIV-1 and/or HCV NS3/4A proteases with IC50 values < 10 μM, but did not appreciably inhibit general human proteases renin and trypsin. The SARs showed that dicarboxylic acid hemiesters of HE significantly enhance the antiviral activities when C3 or C23 are linked with 6 carbon acyl chains.
Identifying Informational Opportunities in Political Responsibility Reporting: A Study of Television News Coverage During the Coronavirus Pandemic in the UK's Devolved System
Authors: Cushion Stephen , Carbis Llion
Published: January 2022

How the news media report who’s responsible for political decisions is fundamental to an informed citizenry. Our study develops a new way of examining political responsibility coverage by drawing on the concept of informational opportunities in order to explore how television news could enhance audience understanding. We examine how television news reported who was responsible for making policies across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland during the coronavirus pandemic. Drawing on a content analysis study of five UK television news bulletins (N = 181), we found that reporting did not regularly attribute political responsibility to all four governments of the UK at the start of the pandemic. Once the nations began to adopt different lockdown measures the clarity of reporting legislative decisions improved, but there were still missed opportunities to clarify which government was responsible for specific policies. By way of conclusion, we argue that scholars examining how the media report political responsibility need to find creative ways of theorising and empirically studying informational opportunities in order to enhance public understanding.