bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Dental Caries in Primary Schoolchildren: An Iranian Setting
Authors: Youssefi Mohammad Ali , Afroughi Solaiman
Published: January 2020

Introduction. Dental caries is the most common oral health disease of school-aged children around the world. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of dental caries in primary schoolchildren in Yasuj township, Iran. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 460 children aged 7–12 years were investigated. Dental examination was performed at school according to the World Health Organization criteria. Sociodemographic data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and caries statuses of children’s teeth were recorded through a dental chart. Data were analyzed using summary statistics, chi-square test, and logistic regression model with odds ratio. Results. The prevalence of dental caries in primary, permanent, and whole dentition among children was 75.3%, 41.1%, and 89.8%, respectively. Among all considered factors, the caries presence in primary teeth was inversely (p<0.001) and in permanent teeth was positively (p<0.001) associated with the children’s age. Moreover, the odds of decaying permanent teeth were significantly higher in girls, in rural children, and in children whose fathers were not an employee compared to their counterparts (p=0.04, p<0.001, and p=0.02, respectively). Conclusions. The prevalence of dental caries among the studied primary schoolchildren in mixed dentition was high and associated with their sociodemographic factors. Providing and implementing preventive, therapeutic, and informative programs for controlling dental caries at individual, family, and school levels are necessary for local health policymakers.
Design of Wavelet-Encoded Symbol Constellations for Cyclostationary Spectrum Sensing
Authors: Valério de Souza Pedro Thiago , Valério de Souza Vinícius Samuel , Felipe de Queiroz Silveira Luiz
Published: January 2020

In mobile communication systems, the signals propagate through multipath over time-varying channels, which are subject to distortion caused by fading and Doppler shifts. In order to minimize such distortions, coding techniques and transmission diversity can be employed, e.g., wavelet coding. In this work, the wavelet coding is investigated in scenarios of cognitive radio systems with dynamic spectrum access. Cognitive radio systems with dynamic spectrum access should be able to sense unoccupied frequency bands for opportunistic transmissions, as well as detect the presence of primary users when they occupy their licensed spectrum. Therefore, an essential element for the accurate operation of cognitive radio systems encoded by wavelet coding is the ability to sense the signals encoded by this technique. It is effectively demonstrated that the possibility of sensing such signals is associated with a suitable design of the signal constellation used in the modulation of the coded symbols. The constellation design of these is performed via genetic algorithms using a multiobjective optimization approach. The developed system is evaluated according to the robustness to time-varying flat fading through a bit error probability (BER) versus Eb/N0 analysis. The spectral sensing ability is also addressed employing the cyclostationary analysis. The results denote the feasibility of using wavelet coding in radio scenarios with dynamic spectrum access, with good performance in terms of BER and signal detection rates.
IL6 Induces an IL22+ CD8+ T-cell Subset with Potent Antitumor Function
Authors: St. Paul Michael , Saibil Samuel D. , Lien Scott C. , Han SeongJun , Sayad Azin , Mulder David T. , Garcia-Batres Carlos R. , Elford Alisha R. , Israni-Winger Kavita , Robert-Tissot Céline , Zon Michael , Katz Sarah Rachel , Shaw Patricia A. , Clarke Blaise A. , Bernardini Marcus Q. , Nguyen Linh T. , Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Pugh Trevor J. , Ohashi Pamela S.
Published: January 2020

CD8+ T cells can be polarized into several different subsets as defined by the cytokines they produce and the transcription factors that govern their differentiation. Here, we identified the polarizing conditions to induce an IL22-producing CD8+ Tc22 subset, which is dependent on IL6 and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor transcription factor. Further characterization showed that this subset was highly cytolytic and expressed a distinct cytokine profile and transcriptome relative to other subsets. In addition, polarized Tc22 were able to control tumor growth as well as, if not better than, the traditional IFNγ-producing Tc1 subset. Tc22s were also found to infiltrate the tumors of human patients with ovarian cancer, comprising up to approximately 30% of expanded CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). Importantly, IL22 production in these CD8+ TILs correlated with improved recurrence-free survival. Given the antitumor properties of Tc22 cells, it may be prudent to polarize T cells to the Tc22 lineage when using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T or T-cell receptor (TCR) transduction–based immunotherapies.
The Impact of Traditional Medicine-Based Lifestyle and Diet on Infertility Treatment in Women Undergoing Assisted Reproduction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Alibeigi Zeinab , Jafari-Dehkordi Effat , Kheiri Soleiman , Nemati Maryam , Mohammadi-Farsani Gholamreza , Tansaz Mojgan
Published: January 2020

The problem of infertility is growing rapidly in the world. Traditional medicine with thousands of years of history has claimed that it can treat some kinds of infertility using nutritional and lifestyle modifications and interventions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a traditional medicine-oriented diet and lifestyle on infertility treatment. Based on a clinical trial study, 180 infertile women who were 20–40 years old and candidates for in vitro fertilization (IVF) were randomly assigned to 2 groups: an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group used diet and lifestyle recommendations based on Iranian traditional medicine for at least 3 months. The number of ova, mature ovum number, embryo number, embryo quality, and fertilization rate were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (for all items; p < 0.05). Overall pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the intervention group (35.2 vs. 12.4%; odds ratio [OR], 3.8; 95% CI, 1.8–8.3). The intervention group had a higher rate of getting spontaneous pregnancy than the control group (20.9 vs. 2.2%; OR, 11.5; 95% CI, 2.6–50.9). Chemical pregnancy was significantly higher in the intervention group (64 vs. 27.5%; OR, 4.7; 95% CI, 1.9–11.6). Diet and lifestyle modifications based on traditional medicine can contribute greatly to the infertility treatment. Thus, many infertility cases can be treated without the need to use advanced methods. In case of using assisted reproductive techniques, traditional medicine can enhance the efficiency of these methods.
Secondary Hyperthyroidism due to an Ectopic Thyrotropin-Secreting Neuroendocrine Pituitary Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Trummer Christian , Reiher Hannes , Theiler-Schwetz Verena , Pandis Marlene , Gstettner Christian , Potzinger Peter , Keck Tilman , Pieber Thomas R. , Lax Sigurd , Haybaeck Johannes , Stepan Vinzenz , Pilz Stefan
Published: January 2020

Introduction: The main differential diagnoses of secondary hyperthyroidism include thyrotropin-secreting neuroendocrine pituitary tumors (TSH-PitNETs) and resistance to thyroid hormone. As a rare cause of secondary hyperthyroidism, ectopic thyrotropin-producing neuroendocrine pituitary tumors must also be considered. Case Presentation: A 48-year-old female patient with overt hyperthyroidism and elevated thyrotropin was admitted to the endocrine outpatient clinic of a secondary care hospital in March 2018. The patient had an inconspicuous pituitary MRI and F18-F-DOPA PET-CT, but showed a tumor mass located at the pharyngeal roof. Most biochemical tests and an increased tracer uptake of the pharyngeal mass in a Ga68-DOTANOC PET-CT argued for the presence of an ectopic TSH-PitNET. After treatment with octreotide over 5 days and a consecutive normalization of free thyroxine and free triiodothyronine, the tumor was endoscopically resected. Histologically, the mass consisted of small partially spindle, partially polygonal monomorphic to mildly pleomorphic cells with immunoreactivity for thyrotropin and luteinizing hormone. Postoperatively, the patient required intermittent levothyroxine therapy. Discussion and Conclusions: Ectopic TSH-PitNETs represent an extremely rare cause for secondary hyperthyroidism. While the diagnostic process may be complicated by negative imaging studies of the pituitary gland, family history, biochemical tests, and functional imaging using gallium-labelled somatostatin analogues may be helpful in establishing the diagnosis.
Analysis of the Efficacy of a Sublingual Bacterial Vaccine in the Prophylaxis of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Carrión-López Pedro , Martínez-Ruiz Jesús , Librán-García Laura , Giménez-Bachs José Miguel , Pastor-Navarro Héctor , Salinas-Sánchez Antonio S.
Published: January 2020

Objectives: Recurrent urinary tract infections (R-UTIs) are very common amongst women, and alternatives to antibacterial prophylaxis are necessary. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a sublingual bacterial vaccine for the prophylaxis of R-UTIs. Methods: We conducted a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study of 166 women diagnosed with R-UTIs. Both before and after the start of treatment with the vaccine, we analysed the total number of R-UTI episodes, the urine culture results, and the type and number of antibiotic packages consumed. Symptoms and urine cultures were evaluated 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months after initiating treatment with the vaccine. Results: The mean time of follow-up after vaccination was 1.7 years. After vaccination, there was a 54.6% reduction in episodes of UTI, and a 56.2% reduction in positive urine cultures. At 3 months, 74.4% of the patients had no R-UTI, the rate falling to 68.1% at 6 months, 52.4% at 12 months, and 44.5% at 24 months. The cumulative probability of maintaining negative urine cultures was 76% at 3 months, 37% at 12 months, and 18% at 2 years. Conclusions: The use of a sublingual bacterial vaccine for the prophylaxis of R-UTIs in women is an effective treatment that contributes to a reduction in the number of UTI episodes.
Ultrafast Toluidine Blue Staining for Rapid On-Site Evaluation of Cytological Smears
Authors: Hewer Ekkehard , Schmitt Anja M.
Published: January 2020

Rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) is one of cytopathology’s “unique selling propositions.” The quality, speed, and ease of handling of the staining used is a critical factor for the efficacy of the ROSE procedure. Here, we describe a modification of rapid toluidine blue staining that can be performed within 25 s, provides excellent nuclear morphology, and is compatible with subsequent Papanicolaou staining of the slides. Furthermore, exposure to hazardous chemicals is minimized, as no organic solvents other than the alcohol-based fixative and glycerin for temporary mounting and coverslipping are required. We have used this protocol successfully in our ROSE practice and have not observed any discrepancies between toluidine blue- and permanent Papanicolaou-stained slides.
Readmissions after Acute Kidney Injury during Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation Hospitalization
Authors: Walther Carl P. , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C. , Deswal Anita , Niu Jingbo , Navaneethan Sankar D.
Published: January 2020

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) frequently complicates hospitalizations for left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Little is known about the relationship of AKI with subsequent readmissions, and we investigated the relationship of AKI during LVAD implantation hospitalization with all-cause and cause-specific 30-day readmissions. Methods: We used a United States (US) nationwide all-payer administrative database, identifying patients who underwent implantable LVAD placement 2010–2015. Patients were classified into 3 mutually exclusive groups based on presence and severity of AKI during the LVAD placement hospitalization: no AKI, AKI, and AKI requiring dialysis (AKI-D). Outcomes were all-cause and cause-specific 30-day readmissions. Results: Within 30 days after discharge 25.4% of patients were readmitted. Of those without AKI, 23.9% were readmitted, compared to 25.5% of those with AKI and 42.2% of those with AKI-D. Compared to no AKI (adjusted for demographics, index hospitalization and chronic comorbidity factors, and year), odds of 30-day readmission were 2.18 (95% CI 1.37–3.49) times higher for those with AKI-D, whereas those with AKI not requiring dialysis had similar 30-day readmission risk (OR 1.03 [95% CI 0.89–1.20]). Those with AKI-D had higher risk of 30-day readmission for infection (OR 2.02 [95% CI 1.13–3.61]), gastrointestinal (GI) bleed (2.32 [95% CI 1.24–4.34]), and kidney disease (13.9 [95% CI 4.0–48]). There was no increased risk for stroke readmission with AKI or AKI-D. Conclusion: AKI-D was associated with highest ­30-day readmission risk, possibly related to negatively synergistic effects of LVAD, kidney dysfunction, and dialysis related factors on infection and GI bleeding risks. AKI alone was not associated with increased readmission risk.
Absence of Coronary Artery Calcium During Positron Emission Tomography Stress Testing in Patients Without Known Coronary Artery Disease Identifies Individuals With Very Low Risk of Cardiac Events
Authors: Le Viet T. , Knight Stacey , Min David B. , McCubrey Raymond O. , Horne Benjamin D. , Jensen Kurt R. , Meredith Kent G. , Mason Steven M. , Lappé Donald L. , Anderson Jeffrey L. , Muhlestein Joseph B. , Knowlton Kirk U.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Myocardial perfusion imaging, including positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), is often used to assess for high-grade coronary artery disease (CAD) requiring revascularization. The use of coronary artery calcium (CAC) to predict risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in asymptomatic patients is accepted. However, little is known regarding the use of CAC in PET/CT patients without known CAD in identifying patients unlikely to need revascularization. Here, we determined whether the absence of CAC, using low-dose attenuation correction CT obtained during the PET/CT, identifies patients unlikely to undergo coronary revascularization within 90 days of a PET/CT.

Methods:

Patients, without a history of CAD and no elevation in troponin, referred for PET/CT at Intermountain Medical Center were studied (n=5528). The presence of CAC was visually assessed using low-dose attenuation correction CT. The association between CAC and 90-day high-grade CAD and revascularization were assessed. Longer-term (up to 4 years) major adverse cardiovascular events, including all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and late revascularization (>90 days), were examined.

Results:

There were 2510 (45.4%) patients in CAC-present group and 3018 (54.6%) patients in CAC-absent group. The CAC-absent group, compared with the CAC-present group, was less likely to undergo coronary angiography (3.4% versus 10.2%,
P
<0.0001), have high-grade CAD (0.5% versus 6.5%,
P
<0.0001), and receive revascularization (0.4% versus 5.8%, [adjusted odds ratio =0.09; 95% CI, 0.05–0.16];
P
<0.0001). In patients with an ischemic burden >10%, the CAC-absent group was associated with reduced revascularization (
P
<0.0001). Longer-term major adverse cardiovascular events were lower in the CAC-absent (2.4%) compared with the CAC-present (6.9%) group (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.34–0.60];
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions:

The absence of CAC on low-dose attenuation correction CT identifies PET/CT patients unlikely to have high-grade CAD or require revascularization within 90 days and unlikely to experience longer-term major adverse cardiovascular events. The prognostic value of CAC, beyond ischemic burden, suggests its potential as a first-step screening tool in intermediate-risk patients to identify those who do not need coronary revascularization.
Taxonomic note on Impatiens longipes (Balsaminaceae) and description of the new species I. pseudolongipes

Authors: GOGOI RAJIB , SHERPA NORBU , BORAH SOURAVJYOTI
Published: January 2020

The taxonomic identity of the species Impatiens longipes Hook.f. & Thomson is discussed and a lectotype has been designated for the name. Impatiens pseudolongipes is described and illustrated as a new species.
Ramularia titarpaniensis—a new species of ramularioid complex from central India

Authors: KUSHWAHA PRAKASH , SINGH RAGHVENDRA , CHAURASIA BALMUKUND
Published: January 2020

Ramularia titarpaniensis, a new hyaline anamorphic foliicolous hyphomycetous fungus, discovered on living leaves of Wendlandia sp. (Rubiaceae) is described and illustrated. This species is compared with closely related species of cercosporoid hyphomycetous forms reported on the same family.
New Neotropical species of Lachesilla Westwood, in species group forcepeta (Psocodea: ‘Psocoptera’: Lachesillidae)
Authors: ALDRETE ALFONSO N. GARCÍA , DA SILVA-NETO ALBERTO MOREIRA
Published: January 2020

Eight species of Lachesilla, in species group forcepeta, are described and illustrated: three species from Costa Rica (Lachesilla herediana n. sp., Lachesilla raravis n. sp., and Lachesilla ticana n. sp.), one species from Costa Rica and Panama (Lachesilla odontiforceps n. sp.), one species each from Brazil (Lachesilla oriximinaensis n. sp.), Mexico (Lachesilla concaensis n. sp.) and Panama (Lachesilla albrookensis n. sp.), and one species from Guatemala, Mexico and Panama (Lachesilla tenuidenticulata n. sp.). The location of the types is indicated in each description.
The Tiberian Pronunciation Tradition of Biblical Hebrew, Volume 2
Authors: Khan Geoffrey
Published: January 2020

The form of Biblical Hebrew that is presented in printed editions, with vocalization and accent signs, has its origin in medieval manuscripts of the Bible. The vocalization and accent signs are notation systems that were created in Tiberias in the early Islamic period by scholars known as the Tiberian Masoretes, but the oral tradition they represent has roots in antiquity. The grammatical textbooks and reference grammars of Biblical Hebrew in use today are heirs to centuries of tradition of grammatical works on Biblical Hebrew in Europe. The paradox is that this European tradition of Biblical Hebrew grammar did not have direct access to the way the Tiberian Masoretes were pronouncing Biblical Hebrew.

In the last few decades, research of manuscript sources from the medieval Middle East has made it possible to reconstruct with considerable accuracy the pronunciation of the Tiberian Masoretes, which has come to be known as the ‘Tiberian pronunciation tradition’. This book presents the current state of knowledge of the Tiberian pronunciation tradition of Biblical Hebrew and a full edition of one of the key medieval sources, Hidāyat al-Qāriʾ ‘The Guide for the Reader’, by ʾAbū al-Faraj Hārūn. There is also an accompanying oral performance of samples of the reconstructed pronunciation by Alex Foreman. It is hoped that the book will help to break the mould of current grammatical descriptions of Biblical Hebrew and form a bridge between modern traditions of grammar and the school of the Masoretes of Tiberias.
Microbial Diversity and Physicochemical Characteristics of the Maotai-Flavored Liquor Fermentation Process
Authors: Dai Yijie , Tian Zhiqiang , Meng Wangni , Li Zongjun
Published: January 2020

The grains fermented in Maotai-flavored liquor can be classified into two groups: high-temperature fermented grains generated by stacking and grains fermented in pits. The Maotai-flavor making process enriches a special microbiota from the fermented grains, which makes related studies
more difficult. The use of modern molecular techniques to detect and analyze diversity and changes in total bacterial (16S rRNA sequencing) and fungal (internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing) counts have helped to overcome the shortcomings of traditional technological research. The total
RNA extracted by Fe3O4–SiO2 nanoparticles was retrieved into DNA by MagBeads Total RNA Extraction Kit. However, discrepancies exist in the microbial community structures at different fermentation periods. Dominant bacteria include Escherichia-Shigella,
Lactobacillus, Clostridium, and Streptococcus species and dominant fungi include Alternaria, Ciliophora, Pyrenochaetopsis, Cyphellophora, Aspergillus, Issatchenkia, Pichia, Candida, and Zygosaccharomyces species. Analyses of the enzymatic activity of samples at different
fermentation stages have revealed that some existing bacilli influence amylase activity. Here, to investigate flavor changes during each fermentation round, the liquor quality at all rounds was comprehensively assessed based on the corresponding physicochemical properties, which were summarized
by sensory evaluation. These results suggested that the liquor quality in the third, fourth, and fifth fermentation rounds was superior.
Decomposition of Ionic Liquid Solution Over CuIr-Hexaaluminate Catalysts
Authors: Kim Munjeong , Kim Jinwoo , Kim Hyojin , Lee Jeongsub , Park Young Chul , Jeon Jong-Ki
Published: January 2020

The objective of this study is to elucidate the catalytic performance of hexaaluminate catalysts incorporating Cu and Ir simultaneously during the decomposition of an ammonium dinitramide (ADN)-based liquid propellant. Pellet-type catalysts were prepared and their chemico-physical properties
were characterized by N2 adsorption, XRD, and XRF. It was confirmed that Cu and Ir atoms are well incorporated inside the hexaaluminate matrix of the Cu(x)Ir(10-x)-hexaaluminate catalysts and the content of Ir incorporated into hexaaluminte matrix was in the range of 2.5–8.2
wt%. The Cu(7)Ir(3)-hexaaluminate catalyst showed excellent activity in decomposition of ADN-based liquid monopropellant. The activity of the Cu(7)Ir(3)-hexaaluminate catalyst was much higher than that of the Cu(7)Ir(3)/hexaaluminate-imp catalyst prepared by impregnation of Cu and Ir onto
the hexaaluminate pellet surface. This is attributed to the Cu and Ir being well incorporated in the hexaaluminate matrix and the dispersion of the Cu and Ir being greater in the Cu(7)Ir(3)-hexaaluminate than in the Cu(7)Ir(3)/hexaaluminate-imp.
H2 Gas Sensor Based on Pd-Loaded Carbon Nanotube Film
Authors: Han Maeum , Kim Jae Keon , Lee Junyeop , An Hee Kyung , Yun Jong Pil , Kang Shin-Won , Jung Daewoong
Published: January 2020

Palladium-coated multi-walled carbon nanotube (Pd-MWCNT) nanocomposites have been experimentally proven to show highly improved hydrogen (H2) gas detection characteristics at room temperature when compared with single MWCNTs. In this context, we develop an efficient and convenient
method for forming nanocomposites by coating Pd nanoparticles on an MWCNT film. Furthermore, we test the applicability of the nanocomposites as sensing materials in detecting H2 gas at room temperature in a reliable and sensitive manner in contrast with ordinary metal-oxidebased
gas sensors that operate at high temperatures. We first study the detection efficacy of the Pd-MWCNT film relative to pure MWCNT film. Subsequently, we investigate the Pd-MWCNT sensor’s sensitivity over time for different gas concentrations, the sensor response time, and sensor reproducibility
and reliability under various conditions including bending tests. Our sensor exhibits stable reliable detection characteristics and excellent structural flexibility.
Activated Carbon Based Supercapacitors with a Reduced Graphene Oxide Additive: Preparation and Properties
Authors: Wang Jia-Wei , Zhang Wei-Ke , Jiao Chen , Su Fang-Yuan , Chen Cheng-Meng , Guo Chun-Li , Chua Hui Tong , Eahon Sehrina
Published: January 2020

We have successfully enhanced the performance of commercial supercapacitors that use Japan Kuraray 80F activated carbon and Super-P conductive carbon black as the conductive agent with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) additive. The ratios of conductive carbon black to rGO studied are 3:1,
5:1, 10:1, 15:1 and 1:0. The enhancement is most pronounced at 15:1, and the specific capacitance being 137.5 F g−1, which is a 23.8% improvement over the 1:0 control. The specific capacitance retention is 70.1% after 10000 cycles. The impedance resistance is also reduced
to 1.5 Ω, which is 3.3 times lower than the 1:0 control. Additionally, the rGO additive does not alter the favorable pore size distribution of the primary matrix and successfully preserves its small mesoporous structure, which facilitates facile transport of electrolyte.
Optimizing Rice Near-Infrared Models Using Fractional Order Savitzky–Golay Derivation (FOSGD) Combined with Competitive Adaptive Reweighted Sampling (CARS)
Authors: Xia Zhenzhen , Yang Jie , Wang Jing , Wang Shengpeng , Liu Yan
Published: January 2020

Developing a rapid and stable method for analyzing the quality parameters of rice is important. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometric techniques have been used to predict the critical contents of rice and shown its accuracy and stability. To further improve the predictive ability, we combine the derivative method of fractional order Savitzky–Golay derivation (FOSGD) with the wavelength selection method of competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS). Compared with the traditional integer order Savitzky–Golay derivation (IOSGD), the FOSGD could improve the resolution ratio of the raw spectra more effectively. The wavelength selection method, CARS, could further extract the informative variables from the processed spectra. Four key contents of rice samples, including moisture, amylose, chalkiness degree, and gel consistency, were utilized to validate this method. The prediction results indicated that partial least squares (PLS) models optimized with FOSGD-CARS own higher accuracy and stability with smaller the root mean squared error of cross validations (RMSECVs) and root mean squared error of predictions (RMSEPs). The proposed method is convenient and provides a practical alternative for rice analysis.
Neurochemical and brain functional changes in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of first-episode psychosis patients: A combined functional magnetic resonance imaging—proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy study
Authors: Cen Haixin , Xu Jiale , Yang Zhilei , Mei Li , Chen Tianyi , Zhuo Kaiming , Xiang Qiong , Song Zhenghua , Wang Yingchan , Guo Xiaoyun , Wang Jinhong , Jiang Kaida , Xu Yifeng , Li Yao , Liu Dengtang
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Previous studies showed alterations of brain function in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of schizophrenia patients. Also, neurochemical changes, especially GABA level alteration, have been found in the medial prefrontal cortex of schizophrenia patients. However, the relationship between GABA level in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and brain functional activity in schizophrenia patients remains unexplored.

Methods:

In total, 23 drug-naïve, first-episode psychosis patients and 26 matched healthy controls completed the study. The single voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy data were acquired in ventromedial prefrontal cortex region, which was used as the seed region for resting-state functional connectivity analysis. The proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy data were processed to quantify the concentrations of GABA+, glutamine and glutamate, and N-acetylaspartate in ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Spearman correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between metabolite concentration, functional connectivity and clinical variables. Pearson correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between GABA+ concentration and functional connectivity value.

Results:

In first-episode psychosis patients, GABA+ level in ventromedial prefrontal cortex was higher and was positively correlated with ventromedial prefrontal cortex-left middle orbital frontal cortex functional connectivity. N-acetylaspartate level was positively correlated with positive symptoms, and the functional connectivity between ventromedial prefrontal cortex and left precuneus was negatively associated with negative symptoms of first-episode psychosis patients.

Conclusion:

Our results indicated that ventromedial prefrontal cortex functional connectivity changes were positively correlated with higher local GABA+ level in first-episode psychosis patients. The altered neurochemical concentration and functional connectivity provide insights into the pathology of schizophrenia.
Socially Responsible Firms Outsource Less
Authors: Murcia Maria Jose , Panwar Rajat , Tarzijan Jorge
Published: January 2020

Implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) in supply chains is not a trivial task. In fact, many firms in recent years have publicly proclaimed that in order to keep their CSR commitments, they had to reduce reliance on external suppliers by vertically integrating their operations. Our aim in this article is to examine whether there is truly a relationship between a firm’s CSR performance and its level of vertical integration. Drawing on a multi-industry sample of 2,715 firm-year observations, and after addressing endogeneity concerns, we demonstrate that firms with higher CSR performance tend to vertically integrate more (or, outsource less). We also demonstrate that this tendency is weaker for firms that have higher degrees of asset specificity or international diversification. Our core conclusion is that CSR performance and outsourcing are at odds, but firms can reconcile this tension by deepening their collaborations with suppliers.
Peer Interactions in Preschool Inclusive Classrooms: The Roles of Pragmatic Language and Self-Regulation
Authors: Lin Tzu-Jung , Chen Jing , Justice Laura M. , Sawyer Brook
Published: January 2020

Drawing from a social network perspective, we examined the extent to which children with and without disabilities play with each other in preschool inclusive classrooms and identified malleable child characteristics that would support children forming these cross-status play interactions. A total of 200 children with disabilities and 301 children without disabilities participated in this study ( Mage = 52.39 months, SDage = 6.13). Results showed that children with and without disabilities did not differ in the extent to which they formed cross-status play interactions after pragmatic language and self-regulation were taken into account. However, typically developing children were more likely to form same-status play interactions than children with disabilities. Children’s cross-status play interactions were predicted by self-regulation ability, which was fully mediated by their pragmatic language. The impact of pragmatic language on the formation of cross-status play interaction was greater for children with disabilities than their typically developing peers.
Are Schools in the U.S. South Using Special Education to Segregate Students by Race?
Authors: Morgan Paul L. , Woods Adrienne D. , Wang Yangyang , Hillemeier Marianne M. , Farkas George , Mitchell Cynthia
Published: January 2020

Whether students of color are more or less likely to be identified as having disabilities than similarly situated students who are White in U.S. states with histories of de jure and de facto racial segregation is currently unknown. Unadjusted analyses of large samples of students attending elementary and middle schools in the U.S. South yielded little evidence of minority overrepresentation in special education. In analyses adjusted for strong confounds (e.g., family income, student-level achievement), students of color were less likely than White students to be identified as having disabilities. Underidentification was evident (a) for the U.S. South in aggregate, (b) across 11 Southern states that we separately examined, (c) in cross-sectional samples assessed in 2003 and 2015, and (d) for specific disability conditions. Black and Hispanic students attending schools in the U.S. South have been and continue to be less likely to be identified as having disabilities than otherwise similar White students.
Preregistration in Single-Case Design Research
Authors: Johnson Austin H. , Cook Bryan G.
Published: January 2020

To draw informed conclusions from research studies, research consumers need full and accurate descriptions of study methods and procedures. Preregistration has been proposed as a means to clarify reporting of research methods and procedures, with the goal of reducing bias in research. However, preregistration has been applied primarily to research studies utilizing group designs. In this article, we discuss general issues in preregistration and consider the use of preregistration in single-case design research, particularly as it relates to differing applications of this methodology. We then provide a rationale and make specific recommendations for preregistering single-case design research, including guidelines for preregistering basic descriptive information, research questions, participant characteristics, baseline conditions, independent and dependent variables, hypotheses, and phase-change decisions.
Special Educators’ Working Conditions in Self-Contained Settings for Students With Emotional or Behavioral Disorders: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: O’Brien Kristen Merrill , Brunsting Nelson C. , Bettini Elizabeth , Cumming Michelle M. , Ragunathan Maalavika , Sutton Rachel
Published: January 2020

Special education teachers (SETs) who teach students with emotional or behavioral disorders (EBD) in self-contained settings are often less qualified, more stressed and burned out, and more likely to leave teaching than other SETs, resulting in a less effective workforce teaching students with significant behavioral and academic needs. Working conditions are a lever by which outcomes can be improved for SETs in these settings, yet the extant research on SETs’ working conditions in self-contained settings is scarce; no researchers have comprehensively examined these SETs’ working conditions using a national sample. To fill this crucial gap in the literature, we surveyed a national sample ( n = 171) of SETs serving students with EBD in self-contained classes. We describe findings in terms of the working conditions that SETs experienced—social (e.g., administrator support, paraprofessionals, professional development) and logistical (e.g., instructional grouping, instructional resources, planning time)—providing implications for research, policy, and practice.
Implementing Comprehensive Literacy Instruction for Students With Severe Disabilities in General Education Classrooms
Authors: Hunt Pam , Kozleski Elizabeth , Lee Jaehoon , Mortier Kathleen , Fleming Danielle , Hicks Tyler , Balasubramanian Lakshmi , Leu Grace , Bross Leslie Ann , Munandar Vidya , Dunlap Kristin , Stepaniuk Inna , Aramburo Corrine , Oh Youngha
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this conceptual replication study was to investigate the efficacy of an early literacy intervention when it was implemented by special educators in general education classrooms with students in the class participating in the lessons. The study was conducted in 16 schools in three states. Eighty students with severe disabilities participated in the study. Students in the intervention group received Early Literacy Skills Builder (ELSB) instruction, and students in the “business-as-usual” control group received literacy instruction planned by special education teachers to address the students’ individualized education program literacy goals. Literacy assessments were conducted in five waves scheduled across the school year. Results showed that students receiving ELSB instruction made greater gains in assessed literacy skills than students in the control group. These findings provide evidence that students with severe disabilities can benefit from comprehensive emergent literacy instruction when it is implemented in general education settings.
On the Legality of the United States Action of Terminating India’s GSP Status
Authors: Babu R. Rajesh
Published: January 2020

Since the US Presidential Proclamation terminating India status as a Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary with effect from 5 June 2019, questions are raised on the WTO legitimacy of such an action. The US measure, which appears to have a punitive element—a move precipitated by lack of reciprocity from India by not providing ‘equitable and reasonable access’ for US products in Indian markets—challenges the fundamentally premise of the GSP schemes. Since the GSP schemes are established to provide economic and developmental opportunities for developing countries, and once established must be administered as per the 1979 General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade Enabling Clause, meaning it must be on a ‘generalised’, ‘non-reciprocal’ and ‘non-discriminatory’ basis, can India raise a legitimate challenge against the US action at the WTO Dispute Settlement Body? Or can the GSP schemes, being voluntary and unilaterally administered, be structured by developed countries as trade policy tools with stringent trade and non-trade conditionalities? The decision of the Appellate Body in European Communities—Tariff Preferences, the contested nature of the Enabling Clause and the heterogeneous nature of developing countries at the WTO makes the interpretation knotty. In this context, this article provides a brief comment on the legal basis of the Enabling Clause in the WTO framework and the legitimacy of the US action of termination of India from the beneficiary status. Keeping aside the legal question, the author is also of the view that time is ripe for India to consider ‘graduating’ itself from such preferential arrangements and engage in binding obligations that are reciprocal and sustainable.

JEL Codes: K33, O24
Procedural Requirements of the South African Anti-Dumping Law and Practice Prior to Imposition of Anti-Dumping Duties: Are They Really WTO-inconsistent?
Authors: Sibanda Omphemetse S.
Published: January 2020

Dumping, which is a form of price discrimination or differential pricing of different units of the same good sold at different prices in different markets, remains a continuing problem for many countries. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) members resort to the imposition of anti-dumping duties or levies to offset the effects of the dumped products on the domestic industry. This article provides a critical analysis of procedural issues in the South African anti-dumping law and practice to determine if it is compatible with the WTO’s Anti-Dumping Agreement (ADA). It particularly focusses on procedural issues prior to the imposition of anti-dumping measures by the South African International Trade Administration Commission. Some authors argue that the South African anti-dumping law and practice is incompatible with its WTO obligations in areas such as the calculation of the constructed export price, the determination of material injury and a causal relationship, the imposition of provisional and definitive anti-dumping duties and the procedure for review. The conclusion provided in this article is that the South African law and application of anti-dumping measure is largely WTO-compliant, particularly on the issues of initiation, investigation and prosecution of anti-dumping complaints.

JEL Codes: F10, F13, F14, F19, K33, K41
Why work it when you can dodge it? Identity responses to ethnic stigma among professionals
Authors: Doldor Elena , Atewologun Doyin
Published: January 2020

Culturally different professionals often encounter stigma as they negotiate work lives. Professionals commonly seek to repair stigmatized identities by constructing more positive and relatively coherent self-views. This study draws on interview, observation and diary data from Romanian professionals in the UK, in order to understand how they construct their identities when faced with ethno-cultural stigma. We find that these professionals engage in counterintuitive identity responses which consist of simultaneously denying and acknowledging personal stigmatization (doublethink), and evading engagement with the stigmatized identity (dodging). Unlike the restorative identity work highlighted by previous studies, these atypical responses require less effort, provide less coherence and do not attempt to restore the blemished ethno-cultural identity. Our analyses further indicate that being professional and being White confer on individuals privileges that sustain doublethink and dodging. We contribute to scholarship by underscoring the need to consider both stigmatized and privileged identities when investigating reactions to stigma. We also reflect on the practical implications for organizations of what it means for stigmatized individuals to deny stigmatization or to dodge engagement with stigma.
Hiring Your Friends: Evidence from the Market for Financial Economists
Authors: Hadlock Charles J. , Pierce Joshua R.
Published: January 2020

The authors study connections in academic hiring in a sample of finance doctoral graduates. Departments hire PhD graduates with school connections to other recently hired faculty at a significantly greater rate than models predict. Similarly, schools exhibit an elevated propensity to hire individuals with names that indicate a similar ethnic background to incumbent department members. School-connected hires tend to publish at significantly elevated rates, a finding that is robust to a large number of model modifications and is stronger in more research-intensive departments. The evidence on school connections appears highly consistent with an employer information benefit from hiring based on school connections. Ethnic-connected hires tend to publish at lower-than-predicted rates when controlling for hiring-school characteristics, but this finding is not robust to the inclusion of hiring-school fixed effects. This evidence suggests that the possible information benefits of school-connected hiring do not immediately extend to other types of connections.
Happy Birthday, You’re Fired! Effects of an Age-Dependent Minimum Wage on Youth Employment Flows in the Netherlands
Authors: Kabátek Jan
Published: January 2020

The Dutch minimum wage for workers aged 15 to 23 is defined as a stepwise increasing function of a worker’s calendar age. Using Dutch administrative records, the author shows that the birthday discontinuities of age-dependent minimum wage rates affect both labor market entry (job accessions) and labor market exit (job separations) of minimum wage workers. The job separations spike in the three months that precede workers’ birthdays, suggesting that firms are dismissing workers whose costs are about to go up. The frequency of job accessions increases immediately after the birthdays and the increase is sustained throughout the following months. The resulting effect on employment levels is dynamic, with the employment rate being subject to an initial drop that is gradually compensated for by the higher rates of post-birthday labor market entry.
Towards sustainable copper matrix composites: Manufacturing routes with structural, mechanical, electrical and corrosion behaviour
Authors: Jamwal Anbesh , Mittal Prateek , Agrawal Rajeev , Gupta Sumit , Kumar Devendra , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Gupta Pallav
Published: January 2020

In the last few decades, man has become more innovative in discovering new materials to make his life more sustainable. Copper metal matrix composite is the most promising material for many engineering applications where the higher temperature resistance and good microstructural stability is required. The sustainable development of copper metal matrix composite is based on the use of ceramics as reinforcements. The choice of reinforcement material is highly influenced by their mechanical properties such as hardness, wear resistance, cost advantage, availability in market and refractory nature. In the current scenario, copper and its alloy are gaining popularity due to their high sustainability, high conductivity and good corrosion resistance. However, the relatively low wear resistance and high temperature strength restrict the use of copper in many applications. Recent developments in metal matrix composites have provided new means to produce high sustainable copper metal matrix composite materials with high wear resistance and high strength materials. It has been found that the wear resistance and strength of materials can be improved by adding hard ceramic particles such as Al2O3, SiC, TiC and ZrO2 into the metal matrix. The aim of the present study is to summarise the research work carried out in the field of sustainable copper metal matrix composites. It also reports the various manufacturing routes along with the structural, mechanical, electrical and corrosion properties. It is found that copper metal matrix composites are preferred over the conventional composites. Sustainability issues around the globe has forced the industries to adopt the eco-friendly materials with their fabrication and machining routes, which results in less carbon emission and also has less affect to the environment. Fabrication of eco-friendly composites is an emerging research area, which has made several research scopes in production of sustainable composites. It is expected that this study can be beneficial for the researcher to decide their research direction in the field of sustainable material production.
Japan’s Intelligence Network in Chile During the Second World War
Authors: Iacobelli Pedro
Published: January 2020

The Second World War became the backdrop of Japanese espionage activities in Latin America that helped to delay the total expulsion of Japanese officers and businesses from the Americas and confinement of Japanese communities. Based on archival information gathered in Japan, the US and Chile, the article examines Japan’s intelligence-gathering activity in Chile and pays attention to its composition and limitations. By doing so, it re-examines the trans-nationality of Japan’s state apparatuses in South America and Chile’s place in the global conflict. The article advances the argument that Japan’s subversive activities in Chile were relentless and had a regional scope beyond one nation-state. Divided into two sections, the article covers the period from the months prior to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor until the final days of the Japanese legation in Chile in January 1943.
Relationship of Friend/Parent Exercise Participation Levels and Adolescents’ Exercise Intention/Behavior as Moderated by Action Control
Authors: Lee Keunchul , Lee Kanghun
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the role of action control in the relationship between friend and parent exercise participation levels with adolescents’ exercise intention and behavior, based on the theory of planned behavior. Data were collected from 740 Korean adolescents through questionnaires that assessed the exercise participation level of these participants’ parents and friends, and the adolescent participants’ personal exercise intention, exercise behavior, action control, and exercise constraints. The results showed that the exercise participation level of friends, but not of parents, mediated the adolescents’ exercise behavior through their exercise intention. This relationship was magnified by higher levels of the adolescents’ action control.