bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change in Coherence of Summer Rainfall Variability over the Western Pacific around the Early 2000s: ENSO Influence
Authors: He Zhuoqi , Wang Weiqiang , Wu Renguang , Kang In-Sik , He Chao , Li Xiuzhen , Xu Kang , Chen Sheng
Published: September 2019

This study is the second part of a two-part series investigating a recent decadal modulation of interannual variability over the western Pacific Ocean around the early 2000s. Observational evidence shows that the anomalous Philippine Sea cyclonic circulation retreats eastward, with the western Pacific rainfall anomaly distribution changing from a north–south tripole pattern to an east–west dipole pattern after 2003–04. These changes are attributed to a change in El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) properties and the associated Indo-Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly pattern. Before the early 2000s, slow-decaying ENSO events induce large SST anomalies in the northern Indian Ocean during the following summer. The northern Indian Ocean SST anomalies act together with the opposite-sign SST anomalies in the tropical central Pacific, leading to a zonally extended anomalous lower-level cyclonic (anticyclonic) circulation and an elongated rainfall anomaly band over the western Pacific. After the early 2000s, ENSO events have a shortened period and a weakened amplitude, and the eastern Pacific SST anomalies tend to undergo a phase transition from winter to summer. Consequently, the influence of ENSO on the Indian Ocean SST anomalies is weakened and the contribution of the northern Indian Ocean SST anomalies to the western Pacific summer rainfall variability becomes insignificant. In this case, the western North Pacific summer rainfall is mainly dominated by the well-developed tropical Pacific SST forcing following the early decay of ENSO events. The potential physical mechanism for the two types of ENSO influences is validated with regional decoupled Community Earth System Model experiments.
An Evaluation of the GOES-16 Rapid Scan for Nowcasting in Southeastern Brazil: Analysis of a Severe Hailstorm Case
Authors: Ribeiro Bruno Z. , Machado Luiz A. T. , Huamán Ch. Joao H. , Biscaro Thiago S. , Freitas Edmilson D. , Mozer Kathryn W. , Goodman Steven J.
Published: September 2019

The GOES-16 mesoscale domain sector (MDS) scans with 1-min intervals are used in this study to analyze a severe thunderstorm case that occurred in southeastern Brazil. The main objective is to evaluate the GOES-16 MDS rapid scans against the operational full-disk scans with lower temporal resolution for nowcasting. Data from a C-band radar, observed sounding, and a ground-based lightning network are also used in the analysis. A group of thunderstorms formed in the afternoon of 29 November 2017 in an environment of moderate convective available potential energy (CAPE) and deep-layer shear. The storms presented supercell characteristics and intense lightning activity with peak rates in excess of 150 flashes per 5 min. The satellite-derived trends with 1-min interval were skillful in detecting thunderstorm intensification, mainly in the developing stage. The decrease in cloud-top 10.35-μm brightness temperature was accompanied by increases in ice mass flux, concentration of small ice particles at cloud top, and storm depth. In the mature stage, there is no evident trend in the satellite-derived parameters that could indicate storm intensification, but the cluster area expands suggesting cloud-top divergence. The 1-min rapid scans indicate greater lead time to severe weather relative to 10- and 15-min-resolution imagery, but also presented numerous false alarms (indication of severe weather but no occurrence) due to oscillations in the satellite-derived parameters. The parameters calculated every 5 min presented better skill than 10 and 15 min and fewer false alarms than 1 min.
Certainty, Uncertainty, or Indifference? Examining Variation in the Identity Narratives of Nonreligious Americans
Authors: Frost Jacqui
Published: September 2019

Much research in social science concludes that uncertainty surrounding individual beliefs and identities is negative and anxiety-inducing, and that people are continuously searching for certainty. In the context of rising rates of religious disaffiliation in the United States, and the rise of social and political organizations created to promote nonreligious beliefs and values, the nonreligious offer a strategic case to explore the meaning and lived experience of certainty and uncertainty surrounding belief and identity formation. Drawing on an analysis of identity narratives from 50 nonreligious Americans, I find that uncertainty is just as often experienced as positive and motivating as it is isolating or anxiety-inducing, and although certainty-filled beliefs and identities are available for the nonreligious, they are just as often rejected for more uncertain ones. I reveal how some nonreligious individuals fluctuate between different orientations toward certainty and uncertainty regarding their nonreligion, whereas others exhibit more trait-like orientations to certainty and uncertainty. These findings have important implications for understanding how orientations to certainty and uncertainty shape identity and belief development in the modern world.
Clinical subtypes that predict conversion to psychosis: A canonical correlation analysis study from the ShangHai At Risk for Psychosis program
Authors: Zhang TianHong , Tang XiaoChen , Li HuiJun , Woodberry Kristen A , Kline Emily R , Xu LiHua , Cui HuiRu , Tang YingYing , Wei YanYan , Li ChunBo , Hui Li , Niznikiewicz Margaret A , Shenton Martha E , Keshavan Matcheri S , Stone William S , Wang JiJun
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Since only 30% or fewer of individuals at clinical high risk convert to psychosis within 2 years, efforts are underway to refine risk identification strategies to increase their predictive power. The clinical high risk is a heterogeneous syndrome presenting with highly variable clinical symptoms and cognitive dysfunctions. This study investigated whether subtypes defined by baseline clinical and cognitive features improve the prediction of psychosis.

Method:

Four hundred clinical high-risk subjects from the ongoing ShangHai At Risk for Psychosis program were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Canonical correlation analysis was applied to 289 clinical high-risk subjects with completed Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes and cognitive battery tests at baseline, and at least 1-year follow-up. Canonical variates were generated by canonical correlation analysis and then used for hierarchical cluster analysis to produce subtypes. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were constructed from the three subtypes to test their utility further in predicting psychosis.

Results:

Canonical correlation analysis determined two linear combinations: (1) negative symptom and functional deterioration-related cognitive features, and (2) Positive symptoms and emotional disorganization-related cognitive features. Cluster analysis revealed three subtypes defined by distinct and relatively homogeneous patterns along two dimensions, comprising 14.2% (subtype 1, n = 41), 37.4% (subtype 2, n = 108) and 48.4% (subtype 3, n = 140) of the sample, and each with distinctive features of clinical and cognitive performance. Those with subtype 1, which is characterized by extensive negative symptoms and cognitive deficits, appear to have the highest risk for psychosis. The conversion risk for subtypes 1–3 are 39.0%, 11.1% and 18.6%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our results define important subtypes within clinical high-risk syndromes that highlight clinical symptoms and cognitive features that transcend current diagnostic boundaries. The three different subtypes reflect significant differences in clinical and cognitive characteristics as well as in the risk of conversion to psychosis.
Risankizumab
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: September 2019

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are available online to subscribers. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, contact Wolters Kluwer customer service at 866-397-3433.
Tropical and subtropical forage germplasm conservation and science on their deathbed! 2. Genebanks, FAO and donors must take urgent steps to overcome the crisis
Authors: Pengelly Bruce C , Maass Brigitte L
Published: September 2019

Tropical and subtropical forage (TSTF) germplasm collections in the international centres of International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), and in many national centres of developed and developing countries are under threat due to reduced financial support. Subsequent lack of skills in taxonomy, diversity assessment and adaptation would preclude them playing their crucial role in underpinning forage research for tropical and subtropical farming systems, to meet the growing global demand for livestock products together with reducing their environmental footprint. Also due to well-meant legal changes of biodiversity ownership as well as a current political culture of ‘us versus them’, germplasm collecting and sharing has become challenging. As a result, most centres have become inward-looking, have few links to other members of the global TSTF research community, including other TSTF genebanks, and are struggling to do the basics of conserving their current holdings. Undoubtedly, valuable germplasm has already been lost, and most genebanks lack the skills and knowledge to add value to research programs to develop new forages or select the best options for new environmental uses. This decline has been a relatively rapid process and reached the crisis point of today in just 20–25 years. This article proposes a four-pronged strategy based on improved efficiency, effectiveness, awareness and collaboration that should be adopted urgently. Swift and drastic action is required of international agencies, national governments, researchers and industry bodies. Much of the germplasm was collected from regions that have since undergone massive development or other changes in land use. Failure to act now will, consequently, result in further loss of genetic material forever and associated passport and descriptive information.
Private and public schools: A spatial analysis of social segregation in France
Authors: Courtioux Pierre , Maury Tristan-Pierre
Published: September 2019

This article shifts our understanding of the geographies of education away from large cities. It provides a geographical and urban analysis of the contribution of differences in enrolment between the public and private sectors to social segregation in French middle schools. Using the mutual information index, we show that the contribution of public/private divergences is rising and is higher in middle-sized urban areas and central municipalities. These geographical areas, however, are not those where social segregation is highest, nor those where the private sector is commonly regarded as the main cause of segregation. Moreover, the gaps between the public and the private sectors are stronger at the local level. This confirms the idea that the private sector is indeed a tool for circumventing France’s School Map ( la Carte scolaire) for allocating places to pupils and that private schools create additional social differences locally.
Type 2 Diabetes and Musculoskeletal Symptoms Among Midlife Women
Authors: Yang You Lee , Chee Wonshik , Im Eun-Ok
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the association between type 2 diabetes and musculoskeletal symptoms among midlife women from 4 major racial/ethnic groups in the United States.

Methods

This is a secondary data analysis using the data from 164 participants aged 40 to 60 years of 2 larger survey studies (62 with type 2 diabetes and 102 without type 2 diabetes). In the original studies, the participants completed multiple questionnaires on background characteristics, health status, menopausal status, and musculoskeletal symptoms. The Musculoskeletal Symptom Index for Midlife Women was used to determine the number and severity of musculoskeletal symptoms. For data analysis, independent t tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and multiple regression analyses were used.

Results

The mean number of musculoskeletal symptoms was significantly higher in women with vs without type 2 diabetes as was the mean severity score. In subgroup analyses, among each menopausal stage and non-Hispanic white women, there were significant differences in the numbers and total severity scores between those with type 2 diabetes and without type 2 diabetes. When background characteristics, health status, and menopausal status were controlled, having diagnosis of type 2 diabetes was positively associated with the numbers and total severity scores of musculoskeletal symptoms.

Conclusion

Study findings supported significant associations of type 2 diabetes with musculoskeletal symptoms among midlife women. Further studies are recommended to confirm relationships in larger populations.
Changes after Suzuki: A retrospective analysis and review of contemporary issues regarding the Suzuki Method in Japan
Authors: Akutsu Taichi
Published: September 2019

This study, followed by an historical review of Shinichi Suzuki’s work, investigated the contemporary and critical issues surrounding the Suzuki Method in Japan. First, the author compared textbooks and recordings of the Suzuki Violin School Volume 1, the Japanese version, published in 1970s to the present edition in Japan. In addition, the study compared the first and second movements of Vivaldi’s A Minor Concerto in Suzuki Violin School Volumes 4 and 5, both in the textbooks and recordings. Next, the study investigated the overall tradition and learning environment of Suzuki lessons from past to present. The study reviewed the lessons taught by Suzuki himself in recordings. The researcher also observed selected lessons and conducted informal interviews with Suzuki teachers to share contemporary issues surrounding the method. The evidence implied that the method in general has become more technically oriented, with less of a family atmosphere and playful stance.
New technologies and new data sources: The business information survey 2019
Authors: Carter Denise
Published: September 2019

The topics explored with the 2019 business information survey participants concern the challenges and opportunities that new and expanding sources of data and content, and new tools and technologies have already brought to the table. And a look ahead at how they might continue to change the business information landscape. Specific questions and topics raised during the primary survey interviews ranged from: How can the information professional make sure the right skills are available to their organization to manage these effectively? Is a potential role of the information professional individual or team to be the organizational strategic advisor for data and information? The integrity and ethics of data, particularly new sources: Where does the data come from? How is it being manipulated? Through to: How critical will good ethical standards be in the future? The survey report doesn’t answer all the questions raised, but it does give a clear indication that today’s information professional is continuously looking for the best response to each challenge.
Systematic review of barriers and enablers to the delivery of palliative care by primary care practitioners
Authors: Carey Mariko L , Zucca Alison C , Freund Megan AG , Bryant Jamie , Herrmann Anne , Roberts Bernadette J
Published: September 2019

Background:

There is increasing demand for primary care practitioners to play a key role in palliative care delivery. Given this, it is important to understand their perceptions of the barriers and enablers to optimal palliative care, and how commonly these are experienced.

Aim:

To explore the type and prevalence of barriers and enablers to palliative care provision reported by primary care practitioners.

Design:

A systematic review of quantitative data-based articles was conducted.

Data sources:

Medline, Embase and PsychINFO databases were searched for articles published between January 2007 and March 2019.

Data synthesis:

Abstracts were assessed against the eligibility criteria by one reviewer and a random sample of 80 articles were blind coded by a second author. Data were extracted from eligible full-texts by one author and checked by a second. Given the heterogeneity in the included studies’ methods and outcomes, a narrative synthesis was undertaken.

Results:

Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. The most common barriers related to bureaucratic procedures, communication between healthcare professionals, primary care practitioners’ personal commitments, and their skills or confidence. The most common enablers related to education, nurses and trained respite staff to assist with care delivery, better communication between professionals, and templates to facilitate referral to out-of-hours services.

Conclusion:

A holistic approach addressing the range of barriers reported in this review is needed to support primary care providers to deliver palliative care. This includes better training and addressing barriers related to the interface between healthcare services.
Families and Households, Tenants and Lodgers: Cohabitation in an Early Modern Swedish Town, Linköping 1750–1800
Authors: Lindström Dag
Published: September 2019

This article explores household sizes, household structures, and patterns of cohabitation in a Swedish town (Linköping) during the second half of the eighteenth century. The analyses reveal discrepancies between different sources, tax records, and census records, indicating that it was sometimes difficult also for contemporary authorities to establish the exact number of households and to which household each individual belonged. However, this study can establish a long-term decline in household sizes. Furthermore, increasing complexities in terms of household structures and cohabitation patterns can be established.
Using ScratchJr to Foster Young Children’s Computational Thinking Competence: A Case Study in a Third-Grade Computer Class
Authors: Chou Pao-Nan
Published: September 2019

This study investigated young children’s computational thinking (CT) development by integrating ScratchJr into a programming curriculum. Twelve third graders (six males and six females) voluntarily participated in an experiment-based computer class conducted at a public elementary school in Taiwan. This study adopted a case study methodology to investigate research questions in one specific case (8-week CT educational training). A one-group quasi-experimental pretest and posttest design with the support of qualitative observation was used to examine four research topics: CT competence progress, programming behaviors in a CT framework, factors influencing CT competence, and learning responses to CT training. The quantitative results indicated that students immersing in weekly programming projects significantly improved in terms of their CT competence, which was mostly retained 1 month after completion of the class. The programming behaviors indicated that students’ CT concepts (sequence, event, and parallelism) and practice (testing and debugging as well as reusing and remixing) significantly improved. Moreover, parents’ active involvement in take-home assignments influenced students’ long-term CT competence retention. The qualitative results indicated that students enjoyed using tablet computers to learn ScratchJr programming and demonstrated various leaning behaviors in a three-stage instructional design model.
Does Perpetrator Occupation Affect Classification of Sexual Assault?
Authors: Henry Dayna S. , Merrell Laura K. , Blackstone Sarah R. , Collazo-Vargas Erika , Mohl Christina , Tolerico Michael , Singley Lauren , Moody Sarah
Published: September 2019

Classification of sexual assault varies based on the characteristics of the victim, perpetrator, and event. However, most studies focus on the individual characteristics of participants asked to classify the assault, the victims’ characteristics, or the event; few have examined variations in the perpetrator. Therefore, this study examined whether the occupation of the perpetrator affected the classification of the event as sexual assault. Participants included a primarily White female sample of undergraduate students ( n = 401) at a south-Atlantic university. They completed a paper-and-pencil survey containing an ambiguous sexual assault encounter where the occupation of the perpetrator (athlete, reporter, college student, or politician) was randomly varied. Participants were asked to classify whether the encounter was sexual assault and what an appropriate punishment might be. Additional measures included the Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale (IRMA) and questions about personal experience with sexual assault. Overall, most participants labeled the encounter as sexual assault, indicating that college students are aware of the legal parameters for providing consent. However, this classification occurred differentially based on the occupation of the perpetrator. Participants were most likely to label the athlete as committing sexual assault, followed by the college student, politician, and reporter, respectively. Females and those who reject rape myths were more likely to label the scenario as sexual assault. A “personal apology” and a “sexual rehabilitation program” were the most common punishments selected for the perpetrator. These findings highlight potential concerns and the need for additional training when college students adjudicate sexual assault reports and determine appropriate consequences.
Trainee experiences in a specialist neuropsychiatry training position
Authors: Rego Thomas , Eratne Dhamidhu , Walterfang Mark , Velakoulis Dennis
Published: September 2019

Objective:

To explore trainee perceptions of a specialist training post in neuropsychiatry.

Method:

Of 47 past trainees who had worked in the Neuropsychiatry Unit at the Royal Melbourne Hospital during the period 1993 to 2017, 32 (68%) completed an online questionnaire including 10 questions, 4 of which asked for open-ended responses.

Results:

Most trainees provided positive feedback about their past experiences working on the unit, including utilizing knowledge and experience in their current practice. To an open question about how working on the unit influenced career choices 21/31 (68%) responses were positive. The remaining 10 responses highlighted areas of improvement for the trainee positions.

Conclusions:

The specialty training position within neuropsychiatry was very popular among past trainees, the majority of whom endorsed using the knowledge learnt in neuropsychiatry in their current practice and recommended work on the unit to future trainees.
Transformative Leadership Approaches to Inclusion, Equity, and Social Justice
Authors: Shields Carolyn M. , Hesbol Kristina A.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this article is to examine the leadership beliefs and practices of three school leaders in a large urban school district in the Rocky Mountain West to determine whether any are consistent with transformative leadership. We sought to (a) describe the challenges faced by these school leaders in addressing the needs of changing populations, (b) understand the ways in which these educators conceptualize an equitable education for all, and (c) identify the inclusive practices that they implement to ensure a socially-just education for all. This study used a transformative, multiple case study to understand the beliefs and practices of three school leaders. Data were collected for this study at one elementary, one middle, and one high school in the same urban school district. We used transformative leadership theory as a conceptual framework to guide the data collection and analysis, focusing explicitly on inclusion, equity, excellence, and social justice. The findings demonstrate how leaders exercise equitable, socially just leadership to create welcoming, inclusive schools where all students, including those who are minoritized or economically disadvantaged, feel affirmed, respected, and academically challenged. An important major challenge that emerged was the need for alignment of district goals and practices with those of school leaders. We conclude with a call to school leaders to disrupt inequitable school cultures and work in transformative ways.
A Systematic Review of Taste Differences Among People With Eating Disorders
Authors: Chao Ariana M. , Roy Abhrarup , Franks Alexis T. , Joseph Paule V.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Eating disorders are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The etiology and maintenance of eating-disorder symptoms are not well understood. Evidence suggests that there may be gustatory alterations in patients with eating disorders.

Objective:

This article systematically reviews research assessing gustatory differences in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge eating disorder (BED).

Method:

A systematic review was performed, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, examining taste and eating disorders. We reviewed electronic databases and identified 1,490 peer-reviewed English-language studies. Of these, 49 met inclusion criteria.

Results:

Studies employed psychophysical measures ( n = 27), self-reported questionnaires ( n = 5), and neuroimaging techniques (i.e., electroencephalography, functional magnetic resonance imaging; n = 17). Psychophysical studies showed that individuals with BN, in general, had greater preference for sweetness than healthy controls, and those with AN had a greater aversion for fat than controls. In neuroimaging studies, findings suggested that predictable administration of sweet-taste stimuli was associated with reduced activation in taste-reward regions of the brain among individuals with AN (e.g., insula, ventral, and dorsal striatum) but increased activation in BN and BED.

Discussion:

To our knowledge, this systematic review is the first to synthesize literature on taste differences in AN, BN, and BED. The inconsistency and variability in methods used across studies increased difficulties in comparing studies and disease processes. Further studies with well-defined population parameters are warranted to better understand how taste varies in patients with eating disorders.
Separating the Local and Malignant Dimensions of Cancer Adaptation
Authors: Roche Benjamin , Martinez Pierre
Published: September 2019

The repeatability observed across cancers arising in the same tissue can help understand the evolutionary process of tumour initiation. We recently developed a framework to quantify the local malignant adaptation of genetic clones in tissue-specific environments. In this Commentary, we argue that such a 1-dimensional model can be improved by separating its 2 components to obtain a dual scale: local adaptation, dictating proliferation rates in the local environment, and malignant adaptation, influencing the likelihood that a clone becomes cancerous and invasive. Such a change could strengthen our understanding of the population dynamics underlying cancer initiation and assess different evolutionary scenarios.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Thyroid Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Phan Kevin , Huo Ya Ruth , Charlton Olivia , Smith Saxon D.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by painful nodules, sinus tracts, and significant scarring. Although the pathogenesis of this disease is not well established, there is increasing evidence to suggest that it is an immune-mediated disorder. Previous studies have suggested a relationship between HS and thyroid disease, which is also driven by an autoimmune process. We sought to assess whether an association exists between HS and thyroid disease.

Objectives:

To determine whether HS is associated with thyroid disease via meta-analysis of case-control studies.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to recommended PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches were performed using 6 electronic databases from their inception until August 2018. Data were extracted and analyzed according to predefined clinical endpoints. Odds ratio (OR) was used as the summary effect size.

Results:

We identified 5 case-controls studies included for meta-analysis. There were a total of 36 103 HS cases compared with 170 517 control cases. We found a significant association between HS and thyroid disease (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.13-1.64, I 2 = 78%, P = .001).

Conclusions:

This pooled analysis of existing case-control studies to date supports an association between HS and any thyroid disease. Clinicians treating patients with HS should be aware of this potential association with thyroid disease.
Vegetarian, vegan, activist, radical: Using latent profile analysis to examine different forms of support for animal welfare
Authors: Thomas Emma F. , Bury Simon M. , Louis Winnifred R. , Amiot Catherine E. , Molenberghs Pascal , Crane Monique F. , Decety Jean
Published: September 2019

There are many different ways that people can express their support for the animals that exist in factory farms. This study draws on insights from the social identity approach, and adopts novel methods (latent profile analysis [LPA]) to examine the qualitatively different subgroups or profiles that comprise broader community positions on this issue. North American participants ( N = 578) completed measures of the frequency with which they engaged in 18 different animal welfare actions. LPA identified 3 meaningful profiles: ambivalent omnivores ( n = 410; people who occasionally limited their consumption of meat/animal products), a lifestyle activist group ( n = 134; limited their consumption of animal/meat products and engaged in political actions), and a vegetarian radical group ( n = 34; strictly limited their consumption of animal/meat products and engaged in both political and radical actions). Membership of the 3 populations was predicted by different balances of social identities (supporter of animal welfare, vegan/vegetarian, solidarity with animals), and markers of politicization and/or radicalization. Results reveal the utility of adopting person-centred methods to study political engagement and extremism generally, and highlight heterogeneity in the ways that people respond to the harms perpetrated against animals.
Human caregivers perceive racial bias in their pet dogs
Authors: Hawkins Carlee Beth , Vandiver Alexia Jo
Published: September 2019

Is there any empirical support for the popular stereotype that dogs are racist? As an initial inquiry into this question, we investigated whether human caregivers perceive racial bias in the behavior of their pet dogs. In 2 studies, caretakers completed explicit and implicit measures of racial preference and reported their dogs’ behavior toward White and Black people. White caretakers reported that their dogs displayed more positive behaviors toward White than Black people, and these reports of dog behaviors were significantly correlated with caretakers’ own explicit and implicit racial preferences. Increased interracial contact was associated with less reported pro-White dog behavior. Humans perceive racial biases in those around us, including our pets.
Stereotypes, emotions, and behaviors associated with animals: A causal test of the stereotype content model and BIAS map
Authors: Sevillano Verónica , Fiske Susan T.
Published: September 2019

Using the stereotype content model (SCM; Fiske, Cuddy, Glick, & Xu, 2002) and the behaviors from intergroup affect and stereotypes (BIAS) map (Cuddy, Fiske, & Glick, 2007), two experiments tested the effect of animal stereotypes on emotions and behavioral tendencies toward animals. As a novel approach, Study 1 ( N = 165) manipulated warmth and competence traits of a fictitious animal species (“wallons”) and tested their effect on emotions and behaviors toward those animals. Stereotypical warm-competent and cold-incompetent “wallons” elicited fondness/delight and contempt/disgust, respectively. Cold-competent “wallons” primarily elicited threat but not awe. Warm-incompetent “wallons” were elusive targets, not eliciting specific emotions. The warmth dimension determined active behaviors, promoting facilitation (support/help) and reducing harm (kill/trap). The competence dimension determined passive behaviors, eliciting facilitation (conserve/monitor) and reducing harm (ignore/let them die off). Study 2 ( N = 112) tested the relation between animal stereotypes for 25 species and realistic scenarios concerning behavioral tendencies toward animals. Similar to Study 1, stereotypically warm (vs. cold) animals matched with active scenarios, eliciting more facilitation (i.e., national health campaign) but less harm (i.e., fighting animals). Stereotypically competent (vs. incompetent) animals matched with passive scenarios, eliciting more facilitation (i.e., restricted areas) but less harm (i.e., accidental mortality). Accordingly, stereotypes limited the suitability of scenarios toward animals. Although findings are consistent with the SCM/BIAS map framework, several unpredicted results emerged. The mixed support is discussed in detail, along with the implications of an intergroup approach to animals.
‘Our Waste, our Resources; A Strategy for England’– Switching to a circular economy through the use of extended producer responsibility
Authors: Dawson Louis
Published: September 2019

High landfill rates compared with flatlining rates of recycling have ensured that waste disposal is once again on the legislative agenda in England. In 2018, the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs published ‘Our Waste, Our Resources: A Strategy for England’ which is the first major policy publication on waste since 2013. Encouraged by the release of this Strategy, this article examines the potential use of extended producer responsibility and the ‘polluter pays’ principle to fuel the transition to a circular economy.
A ticking time bomb? Liverpool declares a climate emergency: What next?
Authors: Ghag Jasbinder
Published: September 2019

The UK government has set a new legally binding target under the Climate Change Act 2008. It now aims to cut carbon emissions to net zero by 2050. This opinion considers whether carbon emissions can really be reduced in practice at the local level in the UK, and uses Liverpool City Council as a case study example. It argues that without coordinated action by various people within the council, between its respective departments, other authorities, organisations, key stakeholders and residents the new target is very unlikely to be met. It also highlights the fact that notwithstanding this, the ice caps are actually melting even faster than even the scientists had predicted and that time is actually running out. It argues that radical action is what is needed and that it is needed now.
Effect of engine conditions and injection timing on piston-top fuel films for stratified direct-injection spark-ignition operation using E30
Authors: Ding Carl-Philipp , Vuilleumier David , Kim Namho , Reuss David L , Sjöberg Magnus , Böhm Benjamin
Published: September 2019

Mid-level ethanol/gasoline blends can provide knock resistance benefits for stoichiometric spark-ignition engine operation, but previous studies have identified challenges associated with spray impingement and wall wetting, leading to excessive particulate matter emissions. At the same time, stratified-charge spark-ignition operation can provide increased thermal efficiency, but care has to be exercised to avoid excessive in-cylinder soot formation. In support of the use of mid-level ethanol/gasoline blends in advanced spark-ignition engines, this study presents spray and fuel-film measurements in a direct-injection spark-ignition engine operated with a 30 vol.%/70 vol.% ethanol/gasoline blend (E30). Crank-angle resolved fuel-film measurements at the piston surface are conducted using two different implementations of the refractive index matching technique. A small-angle refractive index matching implementation allows quantification of the wetted area, while a large-angle refractive index matching implementation enables semi-quantitative measurements of fuel-film thickness and volume, in addition to fuel-film area. The fuel-film measurements show that both the amount of fuel deposited on the piston and the shape of the fuel-film patterns are strongly influenced by the injection timing, duration, intake pressure, and coolant temperature. For combinations of high in-cylinder gas density and long injection duration, merging of the individual spray plumes, commonly referred to as spray collapse, can cause a dramatic change to the shape and thickness of the wall fuel films. Overall, the study provides guidance to engine designers aiming at minimizing wall wetting through tailored combinations of injection timings and durations.
Introduction to Meta-Science in HRD
Authors: Turner John R.
Published: September 2019

The Problem

Research matters. Results from research can affect policy, practice, and future research. Taking every precaution to assure that research is conducted ethically, accurately, and correctly is a practice that should be exhibited by all disciplines. Unfortunately, this has not been the case with upward of 40% of published research identified as being nonreproducible.

The Solution

The first step for any discipline is to be aware that meta-science problems exists and to identify necessary techniques for preventing these problems from occurring. The current Special Issue introduces meta-science to the field of human resource development (HRD) as a step in informing scholars and scholar-practitioners (a) about the potential problems that exists in other disciplines and (b) what steps could be taken to help prevent these problems from occurring in research within the field of HRD.

The Stakeholders

HRD scholars and scholar-practitioners, collaborators of HRD, researchers, instructors, and students of HRD programs.
Research on measurement of supply chain finance credit risk based on Internet of Things
Authors: Abbasi Waseem Ahmed , Wang Zongrun , Zhou Yanju , Hassan Shahzad
Published: September 2019

This article first expounds the concept of supply chain finance and its credit risk, describes the hierarchical structure of the Internet of Things and its key technologies, and combines the unique functions of the Internet of Things technology and the business process of the inventory pledge financing model to design the supply chain financial model based on the Internet of Things. Then it studies the credit risk assessment under the supply chain financial model based on the Internet of Things, and uses the support vector machine algorithm and Logistic regression method to establish a credit risk measurement model considering the subject rating and debt rating. Finally, an example analysis shows that the credit risk measurement model has a high accuracy rate for determining whether small and medium-sized enterprises in the supply chain financial model based on the Internet of Things are trustworthy. This will facilitate the revision and improvement of the existing credit evaluation system and improve the accuracy of measuring the current financial risk of supply chain. This research adopts the Internet of Things to measure financial credit risk in supply chain and provides a reference for the following researches.
Guidance for Research on Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Participation Among Older People: Lessons From a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Dare Julie , Wilkinson Celia , Donovan Robert , Lo Johnny , McDermott Marie-Louise , O’Sullivan Helen , Marquis Ruth
Published: September 2019

This article provides methodological guidance to researchers wishing to develop collaborative research projects with local governments and other agencies, by describing the process adopted in a mixed methods study conducted in the City of Wanneroo (the City), a local government area in Perth, Western Australia. The study explored factors related to older people’s (60+ years) participation in community-based activities and links between their participation and levels of social isolation, loneliness, and social connectedness. The research incorporated four interrelated stages: (1) an audit of existing programs in the City and program participant characteristics; (2) focus groups with program participants and interviews with nonparticipants; (3) a cross-sectional survey to assess factors associated with participation and links to social isolation, loneliness, and social connectedness; (4) face-to-face interviews with survey respondents screened at risk for loneliness. Methodological recommendations are provided to guide future collaborative research with local authorities, program developers, and administrators, aimed at minimizing social isolation and loneliness among older people. These include the need for clear communication and documentation of mutually agreed research objectives and responsibilities from project initiation to completion, identifying and working with local agencies to maximize recruitment among “hard to reach” groups, understanding the dimensions of loneliness addressed in the selected instrument used to screen for loneliness, and integrating innovative data collection techniques when working with vulnerable groups such as socially isolated older people.
A survey examining the use of mechanical insufflation-exsufflation on adult intensive care units across the UK
Authors: Swingwood Ema , Tume Lyvonne , Cramp Fiona
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Despite potential benefits, it is not known how widely physiotherapists use mechanical insufflation-exsufflation devices on UK adult intensive care units. This survey aimed to describe mechanical insufflation-exsufflation use in UK adult intensive care units.

Methods

Cross-sectional electronic survey of physiotherapists working in a permanent post on adult intensive care units.

Results

One hundred and sixty-six complete surveys were available for analysis, reflecting a diverse geographical spread. Nearly all (98%; 163/166) clinicians had access to mechanical insufflation-exsufflation. The estimated frequency of use varied, with the majority reporting weekly or monthly use (52/163, 32%; 50/163, 31%, respectively). Nearly all clinicians (99%) used mechanical insufflation-exsufflation with extubated patients. In contrast, around half of respondents (86/163, 53%) used mechanical insufflation-exsufflation with intubated patients, with a range of perceived barriers reported.

Conclusions

Mechanical insufflation-exsufflation devices are widely available on UK adult intensive care units, with use more common in extubated patients. Barriers to mechanical insufflation-exsufflation use in the intubated population warrant further investigation
Gender disparity and implicit gender bias amongst doctors in intensive care medicine: A ‘disease’ we need to recognise and treat
Authors: Chadwick Andrew J , Baruah Rosaleen
Published: September 2019

UK medical schools have trained equal numbers of male and female doctors for almost 20 years. However, within intensive care medicine only 22% of consultants are female. This article uses the classic descriptors of a disease to explain how unconscious gender bias leads to gender disparity. It provides an introduction and summary of the literature explaining how unconscious biases are formed. It then shows how through overvaluing classically male, or agentic traits, intensive care medicine is at high risk of perpetuating gender disparity to the detriment of the whole speciality. Finally, it covers practical options on how to improve bias awareness and gender disparity nationally and locally within intensive care medicine.
The universality and effectiveness of labour law
Authors: Ewing Keith D , Hendy QC John , Jones Carolyn
Published: September 2019

This short article considers the Workers (Definition and Rights) Bill drafted by the Institute of Employment Rights as a possible solution to the intractable problem of employment status in the United Kingdom, to which Countouris and De Stefano refer. It does so in the context of ILO principles of ‘universality’ and ‘effectiveness’ of labour law, and three important ILO Declarations.
Mediated Superficiality and Misogyny Through Cool on Tinder
Authors: Lee Jin
Published: September 2019

Signaled in its reputation as a “hookup app” or “sex app,” the mobile dating app Tinder has been accused of having ignited “hookup culture” associated with superficiality and sexual innuendo. However, little is known about how Tinder has obtained this notoriety and what Tinder is actually responsible for. This study analyzes talks about Tinder on Reddit (/r/Tinder), as part of Tinder culture where Tinder discourse and norms are established and shared in relation to broader youth pairing culture. Through a lens of feminist media scholarship, I show that an association between Tinder and hookups is couched in a gendered code of conduct, coolness. I argue that this gendered coolness in the economy of visibility of Tinder evokes and justifies misogyny online in line with the sexism inherent to hookup culture.
Identifying Disparities in the Management of Hip Fractures Within Europe: A Comparison of 3 Health-Care Systems
Authors: Murray Cliodhna E. , Fuchs Andreas , Grünewald Heide , Godkin Owen , Südkamp Norbert P. , Konstantinidis Lukas
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

This study investigates the management of hip fractures in a German maximum care hospital and compares these data to evidence-based standard and practice in 180 hospitals participating in the UK National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD) and 16 hospitals participating in the Irish Hip Fracture Database (IHFD). This is the first study directly comparing the management of hip fractures between 3 separate health-care systems within Europe.

Methods:

Electronic medical data were collected retrospectively describing the care pathway of elderly patients with a hip fracture admitted to a large trauma unit in the south of Germany “University Hospital Freiburg” (UHF). The audit evaluated demographics, postoperative outcome, and the adherence to the 6 “Blue Book” standards of care. These data were directly compared with the data from the UK NHFD and the IHFD acquired from 180 and 16 hospitals, respectively.

Results:

At 36 hours, 95.8% of patients had received surgery in UHF, compared to 71.5% in the NHFD and 58% of patients in the IHFD. The rate of in-hospital mortality was 4.7% compared to 7.1% in the NHFD and 5% in the IHFD. The mean average acute length of stay was 13.4 days compared to 16.4 days in the NHFD and 20 days in the IHFD. Reoperation rates are 3.3% compared to 1% in the NHFD and 1.1% in the IHFD; 50.5% of patients were discharged on bone protection medication, compared to 47% in the IHFD and 79.3% in the UK NHFD.

Discussion:

Despite uniformly acknowledged evidence-based treatment guidelines, the management of hip fractures remains heterogeneous within Europe.

Conclusion:

These data show that different areas of the hip fracture care pathway in Germany, England, and Ireland, respectively, show room for improvement in light of the growing socioeconomic burden these countries are expected to face.