bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary design and development of a low-cost lower-limb exoskeleton system for paediatric rehabilitation
Authors: Narayan Jyotindra , Kumar Dwivedy Santosha
Published: February 2021

In this work, the design, modeling, and development of a low-cost lower limb exoskeleton (LLES) system are presented for paediatric rehabilitation (age: 8–12 years, mass: 25–40 kg, height: 115–125 cm). The exoskeleton system, having three degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) for each limb, is designed in the SolidWorks software. A wheel support module is introduced in the design to ensure the user’s stability and safety. The finite element analysis of the hip joint connector along with the wheel support module is realized for maximum loading conditions. The holding torque capacity of exoskeleton joints is estimated using an affordable spring-based experimental setup. A working prototype of the LLES is developed with holding torque rated actuators. Thereafter, the dynamic analysis for the human-exoskeleton coupled system is carried out using the Euler-Lagrange principle and SimMechanics model. The simulation results of estimating joint actuator torques are obtained for two paraplegic subjects (Case I: 10 years age, 30 kg mass, 120 cm height and Case II: 12 years age, 40 kg mass, 125 cm height). The details of input parameters such as body mass, link lengths, joint angles, and contact forces are discussed. The simulation results of dynamic analysis have shown the potential of estimating the torques of joint actuators for the developed prototype during motion assistance and gait rehabilitation.
Preregistered Replication of “Feeling Superior Is a Bipartisan Issue: Extremity (Not Direction) of Political Views Predicts Perceived Belief Superiority”
Authors: Harris Elizabeth A. , Van Bavel Jay J.
Published: February 2021

There is currently a debate in political psychology about whether dogmatism and belief superiority are symmetric or asymmetric across the ideological spectrum. Toner, Leary, Asher, and Jongman-Sereno (2013) found that dogmatism was higher among conservatives than liberals, but both conservatives and liberals with extreme attitudes reported higher perceived superiority of beliefs. In the current study, we conducted a preregistered direct and conceptual replication of this previous research using a large nationally representative sample. Consistent with Toner et al.’s findings, our results showed that conservatives had higher dogmatism scores than liberals, whereas both conservative and liberal extreme attitudes were associated with higher belief superiority compared with more moderate attitudes. As in their study, we also found that whether conservative or liberal attitudes were associated with higher belief superiority was topic dependent. Contrasting Toner et al.’s findings, our results also showed that ideologically extreme individuals had higher dogmatism. We discuss implications of these results for theoretical debates in political psychology.
Performance evaluation of a supercritical circulating fluidized bed boiler for power generation under flexible operation
Authors: Bruzzone Matteo , Ravelli Silvia
Published: February 2021

It is well known that the Łagisza power plant in Poland is the world’s first supercritical circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler, whose commercial operation started on June 2009. It has attracted a great deal of interest and operational data are publicly available, therefore it has been chosen as the object of the present study aimed at assessing load and fuel flexibility of supercritical CFB plants. First, the thermal cycle was modelled, by means of the commercial code Thermoflex®, at nominal and part load conditions for validation purposes. After having verified the validity of the applied modelling and simulation tool, the advantage of having supercritical steam combined with CFB boiler over subcritical steam and pulverized coal (PC) boiler, respectively, was quantified in terms of electric efficiency. As a next step, the designed fuel, i.e. locally mined hard coal, was replaced with biomass: 100% biomass firing was taken into account in the case of subcritical CFB boiler whereas the maximum share of biomass with coal was set at 50% with supercritical CFB boiler, consistently with the guidelines provided by the world leading manufacturers of CFB units. A broad range of biomass types was tested to conceive mixtures of fuel capable of preserving quite high performance, despite the energy consumption in pretreatment. However, the overall efficiency penalty, due to biomass co-firing, was found to potentially undermine the benefit of supercritical steam conditions compared to conventional subcritical power cycles. Indeed, the use of low-quality biomass in thermal power generation based on steam Rankine cycle may frustrate efforts to push the steam cycle boundaries.
Preparation and applications of fluoroalkyl end-capped vinyltrimethoxysilane oligomeric silica/chemically modified cellulose fibers composites
Authors: Sawada Hideo , Yamamoto Shunta , Tono Kako , Yamashita Katsumi
Published: February 2021

Fluoroalkyl end-capped vinyltrimethoxysilane oligomer [RF-(CH2-CHSi(OMe)3) n-RF: n = 2, 3; RF = CF(CF3)OC3F7: RF-(VM) n-RF] was found to undergo the sol-gel reaction under alkaline conditions in the presence of chemically modified cellulose fibers treated with N-methylglucamine units ( MeGlu) [Cellu-fiber- MeGlu] and treated with iminodiacetic acid units ( ImDia) (Cellu-fiber- ImDia) to provide the corresponding fluorinated oligomeric silica/Cellu-fiber- MeGlu composites [RF-(VM-SiO3/2) n-RF/Cellu-fiber- MeGlu] and /Cellu-fiber- ImDia composites [RF-(VM-SiO3/2) n-RF/Cellu-fiber- ImDia], respectively. Dodecane and water contact angle measurements showed that these obtained composites can supply a superamphiphobic characteristic on their composite powders surface. The RF-(VM-SiO3/2) n-RF/Cellu-fiber- ImDia composites were applied to the packing material for the column chromatography to separate the mixture of hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon oils. In addition, the RF-(VM-SiO3/2) n-RF/Cellu-fiber- ImDia composites were found to have more effective removal ability for fluorinated aromatic compounds than that for the corresponding non-fluorinated ones from aqueous methanol solutions. Interestingly, it was demonstrated that the RF-(VM-SiO3/2) n-RF/Cellu-fiber- MeGlu composite powders are also applicable to the fabrication of liquid marbles, which are millimeter-sized liquids such as water, glycerine, ethylene glycol and dodecane stabilized by the adsorbed composite powders at air-liquid interfaces.
Comparative law, literature and imagination: Transplanting law into works of fiction
Authors: Husa Jaakko
Published: February 2021

This paper discusses comparative law and literature as an approach to studying law culturally, addressing how the study of literature from the standpoint of comparative law identifies one way of coding legal cultural knowledge in literature. The interaction between the worlds of law and culture is addressed through imaginary legal transplants. By transplanting legal ideas from the real world to literature, authors imagine worlds as they construct legal meanings in their storytelling. Whereas a legal transplant is a notion filled with problems and paradoxes, in literature it is far less problematic. Imaginary legal transplants are different from real-world transplants because in the real world legal diffusion takes place in mutant form, transforming transplants into irritants. The legislator never controls the world completely, whereas in fictional literature the creator of a written work controls the created world. In this sense, it is argued, imaginary legal transplants are perfect transplants.
Women, Exercise, and Eating Disorder Recovery: The Normal and the Pathological
Authors: Hockin-Boyers Hester , Warin Megan
Published: February 2021

The appropriate form, regularity, and intensity of exercise for individuals recovering from eating disorders is not agreed upon among health care professionals or researchers. When exercise is permitted, it is that which is mindful, embodied, and non-competitive that is considered normative. Using Canguilhem’s concepts of “the normal and the pathological” as a theoretical frame, we examine the gendered assumptions that shape medical understandings of “healthy” and “dysfunctional” exercise in the context of recovery. The data set for this article comes from longitudinal semi-structured interviews with 19 women in the United Kingdom who engaged in weightlifting during their eating disorder recovery. We argue that women in recovery navigate multiple and conflicting value systems regarding exercise. Faced with aspects of exercise that are pathologized within the eating disorder literature (such as structure/routine, body transformations, and affect regulation), women re-inscribe positive value to these experiences, thus establishing exercise practices that serve them.
Barriers and Facilitators That Influence Providers’ Ability to Educate, Monitor, and Treat Substance Use in First-Episode Psychosis Programs Using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Oluwoye Oladunni , Fraser Elizabeth
Published: February 2021

In this qualitative study, we explore providers’ experiences with addressing substance use among individuals with first-episode psychosis (FEP) enrolled in coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs. Three focus groups were conducted with 24 providers from CSC programs for FEP in Washington. Questions were focused on barriers and facilitators to addressing substance use using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) as a guide. Thematic analysis was used to code all transcripts. Identified TDF domains were then mapped onto the COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior) intervention functions and behavior change techniques. Seven theoretical domains were identified as the most relevant to addressing substance use: “Knowledge,” “Skills,” “Environmental Context and Resources,” “Social Influences,” “Social and Professional Role and Identity,” “Beliefs about Capabilities,” and “Reinforcement.” The use of the TDF provides a framework to explore barriers and facilitators for targeting substance use and suggestions for behavior change techniques when considering implementation of evidence-based strategies to enhance CSC models.
The Grief of Relatives of Missing Migrants and Supportive Interventions: A Narrative Review
Authors: Klochok Galina , Herrera-Espiñeira Carmen
Published: February 2021

This review aims to determine the impact of the disappearance of migrants on their family members, to identify their grief management needs, and to describe interventions carried out to date, exploring reports on the grief of relatives of people who disappear in any context. A search of the literature retrieved 24 publications. It was found that the disappearance produced an impact at individual, family, and community level. The primary requisite of relatives was knowledge of the location of their loved one, besides the need for emotional, social, and economic support and recognition of their suffering. There have been few reports of family support interventions, although recommendations have been proposed for their design and implementation. The relatives of migrants are especially vulnerable due to geographic, political, and legal obstacles. The impact of the disappearance and the need for support were found to be highly varied. Further research and interventions on this issue are required.
Further enhancement on H∞ sliding mode control design for singular Markovian jump systems with partly known transition probabilities
Authors: Fallah Zeinab , Baradarannia Mahdi , Kharrati Hamed , Hashemzadeh Farzad
Published: February 2021

This study considers the designing of the H ∞ sliding mode controller for a singular Markovian jump system described by discrete-time state-space realization. The system under investigation is subject to both matched and mismatched external disturbances, and the transition probability matrix of the underlying Markov chain is considered to be partly available. A new sufficient condition is developed in terms of linear matrix inequalities to determine the mode-dependent parameter of the proposed quasi-sliding surface such that the stochastic admissibility with a prescribed H ∞ performance of the sliding mode dynamics is guaranteed. Furthermore, the sliding mode controller is designed to assure that the state trajectories of the system will be driven onto the quasi-sliding surface and remain in there afterward. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed design algorithms.
Understanding Motivation to Adhere to Guidelines for Alcohol Intake, Physical Activity, and Fruit and Vegetable Intake Among U.K. University Students
Authors: de Visser Richard O. , Conroy Dominic , Davies Emma , Cooke Richard
Published: February 2021

Background

To encourage people to lead healthier lifestyles, governments in many countries publish guidelines for alcohol intake, physical activity (PA), and fruit and vegetable (FV) intake. However, there is a need for better understanding of whether people understand such guidelines, consider them useful, and adhere to them. University students are a group worthy of attention because although they are less likely than older adults to exceed U.K. weekly alcohol intake guidelines or to be inactive, they are also less likely to meet FV consumption targets. Furthermore, because behavior during youth predicts adult behavior, it is important to identify influences on healthier behavior.

Method

An online survey was completed by 559 U.K. university students. Key outcome variables were knowledge of guidelines, motivation to adhere to them, and adherence to them.

Results

A total of 72% adhered to guidelines for alcohol intake, 58% for PA, and 20% for FV intake. Students generally had poor or moderate knowledge of guidelines, perceived them as only moderately useful, and were only moderately motivated to adhere to them. Greater motivation to adhere to guidelines was not significantly related to more accurate knowledge. However, it was related to greater familiarity, and perceiving guidelines as useful and realistic, and greater conscientiousness.

Discussion

There is a need to ensure that students understand the U.K. guidelines for alcohol intake, PA, and FV intake. However, simply increasing knowledge may not lead to greater adherence to the guidelines: There is also a need to focus on improving perceptions of how useful and realistic they are.
Theory of Events
Authors: Roberts Chris , Dolasinski Mary Jo , Reynolds Joel , Johanson Misty , Mendez Juan
Published: February 2021

Event management research has generally had a focus on the operational aspect of providing events. In this conceptual effort, the elements of an event are examined through the perspective of the attendee. Five key components of the event experience are identified and explored. Together, the five elements are used to build a model that presents the multifaceted nature of the attendee’s experience. The model is used as a basis for the theory of events to explain and predict what a participant needs and expects from an event experience.
Incidence and risk factors associated with venous thromboembolism following primary total hip arthroplasty in low-risk patients when using aspirin for prophylaxis
Authors: Howard Thomas A , Judd Caitlin S , Snowden Gordon T , Lambert Robert J , Clement Nick D
Published: February 2021

Aims:

The primary aim was to assess the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following total hip replacements (THR) in a low-risk patient group when using 150 mg aspirin as the pharmacological component of VTE prophylaxis on discharge. The secondary aim was to identify factors associated with an increased risk of a VTE event in this low-risk group.

Patients and methods:

Retrospective review of a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing THR during a 63-month period. Patient demographics, socio-economic status, ASA grade, type of anaesthetic, length of surgery and BMI were recorded. A diagnosis of VTE was assigned to symptomatic patients with positive imaging for a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or a pulmonary embolism (PE) within 8 weeks of surgery. Multivariate logistic regression modeling was used to identify factors associated with VTE after THR.

Results:

3880 patients underwent THR during the study period, of which 2740 (71%) were low risk and prescribed aspirin for VTE prophylaxis. There were 34 VTE events, of which 15 were DVTs and 18 were PEs, with 1 patient diagnosed with both. The incidence of VTE was 1.2%, with no VTE-related deaths. Patients incurring a VTE postoperatively were more likely to be male (odds ratio [OR] 2.06, p = 0.022), of older age (OR 0.43, p = 0.047) and were more likely to be socially deprived (OR 0.32, p = 0.006). There was no significant difference with patients given low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) as an inpatient prior to discharge on aspirin ( p = 0.806), nor any difference with the type of anaesthetic used during surgery ( p = 0.719)

Conclusions:

Aspirin is a relatively safe and effective choice for VTE prophylaxis in low-risk patients undergoing THR. Male sex and age >70 years were twice as likely to sustain a VTE and patients from the most deprived socio-economic background are 3 times as likely.
Freedom of speech is not freedom from ethics: the 2019 Israel Folau media controversy as a case study
Authors: Thompson Jay Daniel , Muller Denis
Published: February 2021

This article examines how freedom of speech is framed in the media controversy surrounding the Australian rugby player Israel Folau’s April 2019 Instagram post. A content analysis and framing analysis of newspaper reportage reveals that the controversy has been largely discussed in terms of whether or not Folau’s speech was being curtailed and whether this curtailing indicates a broader, ideologically motivated censoriousness. This discussion is problematic in that it says little about the actual substance of Folau’s post. This article argues that debates surrounding freedom of speech such as the one involving Folau could and should be enriched by an engagement with ethical principles. This engagement is premised on a commitment to the free exchange of views, while acknowledging that ‘speech’ is not always inherently beneficial for democracy, nor worth defending.
Do small public grants boost tourism firms’ performance?
Authors: Srhoj Stjepan , Vitezić Vanja , Walde Janette
Published: February 2021

This study provides new evidence on the impact of tourism grants for service-standard improvement on tourism firm performance. Small matching grants provided to firms in two economically different regions are considered. We study additionality caused by the grants in the performance indicators of firms while taking into account regional heterogeneity and differing tourism demand. In the context of tourism firms in Croatia, we estimate the causal effect via a matching difference-in-differences estimator. We find a positive effect on tourism firm sales, value-added, capital, and labor in the region with higher tourism demand but not in the one with lower tourism demand. A cost–benefit analysis suggests that, in more developed regions, the benefits of the grant scheme for tourism outweigh the grant’s direct costs.
Ultimate flexural strength analysis of composite slim floor beam
Authors: Xia Yuanxin , Han Chunxiu , Zhou Donghua , Wang Yonghui , Wang Peng
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a new type of composite slim floor beam, determined by combining the results of an experimental study and theoretical analysis of the ultimate flexural strength of slim floor beams. The shear connectors play a significant role in the mechanical properties of this type of composite slim floor beam, because the precast concrete slab is laid on the bottom flange of the steel section and because the upper portion of the steel beam is encased in the cast-in-place concrete slab. To investigate the ultimate flexural strength, three specimens, which included headed studs, transverse steel bar shear connectors and no shear connectors, were tested. Additionally, a detailed numerical analysis was performed to verify the experimental results, which indicated that a higher-strength steel beam and thicker concrete slab can effectively enhance the stiffness and flexural capacity of the composite slim floor beam. Based on plastic mechanics and limit analysis theory, a calculation method was derived to estimate the ultimate flexural strength of a composite slim floor beam, and a comparison between the calculation and experimental results shows that the theoretical results exhibit good agreement with the experimental results, and the proposed analysis method can be used in future studies to gain a better understanding of the ultimate flexural strength of composite slim floor beams.
Beyond victims, criminals and survivors: Performing political agency after the world’s strongest storm
Authors: Curato Nicole , Yee Dakila Kim
Published: February 2021

Victims, criminals, and survivors – these are dominant ways in which the media portrays communities affected by disasters. These portrayals are not benign. They present a deficient form of citizenship that reduces communities to disempowered subjects whose agency can only be realised with humanitarian responses or disciplinary action by the state. In this article, we make a case for portraying disaster-affected communities as political agents who assert their status as co-equal citizens bearing ideas and grievances, capable of justifying their views, and have a stake in shaping the course of post-disaster response. We argue that this portrayal is not only normatively desirable but politically possible. We draw on the case of People Surge – a grassroots alliance formed in the Philippines in 2013 in the aftermath of the world’s strongest storm.
Linear optimal design of a magnetic repulsion negative stiffness structure
Authors: Bao Zhang , Xiaoping Wang , Xinfang Ge
Published: February 2021

To reduce negative stiffness structure’s stiffness non-linearity, enhance its stability during entire working displacement range, and expand its allowable working displacement, the optimal design of negative stiffness structure based on magnetic repulsion is proposed, and its structural parameters are also provided. The new negative stiffness structure’s model is established to determine the structural design parameters. According to the change of the new negative stiffness structure’s stiffness curve, we select the structural parameter to meet the design requirements. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed negative stiffness structure, we carried out simulation analysis, and the results show that the optimized negative stiffness structure’s stiffness non-linearity is greatly reduced in a relatively longer displacement, and its stiffness stability is promoted substantially compared with the simple triple-magnet negative stiffness structure.
Numerical simulation of dropped container impacts with an offshore platform deck in the North Sea
Authors: Liu Zhenhui
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a numeric study for an offshore platform deck that encounters potential dropped container impacts in the North Sea. The commercial Abaqus Explicit code was used. Significant plastic deformation was observed due to the high impact energy. A correct tensile fracture model that simulates the steel ductile failure under complicated stress states becomes crucial in such analysis. The material test data are normally very limited in design, which makes it difficult to calibrate the failure criterion. The critical failure strain provided by rules/codes (NORSOK and DNV GL) is not explicitly based on the stress states. This paper presents two simple approaches to extend the failure strain to a wider triaxiality range. Validation has been performed for the two failure criteria that depend on stress states (based on the RTCL and first principal plastic strain). The criterion based on the first principal plastic strain is shown to give the most conservative results. The RTCL-based interpretation shows good agreement under different mesh sizes. Several practical issues during the analysis are also addressed. Both criteria have been applied in the case study. Minor differences are observed from the obtained results of the dissipated energy and impact force. However, the local failure patterns are quite different, to which further attention shall be paid.
Cost-Effectiveness of a Statistics-Based Approach to Developmental Mathematics Education
Authors: Finster Matthew , Feldman Jill
Published: February 2021

Due to the low success of traditional, postsecondary remediation mathematics, The Maryland Mathematics Reform Initiative First in the World Grant (MMRI–FITW) sought to develop and implement a statistics pathway in 2- and 4-year institutions as an alternative to traditional algebra-based math, to accelerate developmental mathematics students’ progress into credit-bearing postsecondary mathematics courses. In this study, we use cost to students and cost to institutions to estimate the cost per student and assess the cost-effectiveness of MMRI–FITW statistics-based vs. traditional algebra-based approach to developmental mathematics education for increasing student enrollment in college credit-bearing mathematics. The results indicate participating in the MMRI–FITW statistics-based vs. traditional algebra-based approach reduces education costs by approximately 7 percent and is 36 percent more cost-effective for increasing student enrollment in college-credit mathematics. The article concludes with the implications of the cost-effectiveness results for scaling the MMRI–FITW statistics-based approach
The Effect of Patient and Hospital Characteristics on Total Costs of Peripheral Bypass in New York State
Authors: Ilonzo Nicole , Goldberger Cody , Hwang Songhon , Rao Ajit , Faries Peter , Marin Michael , Tadros Rami
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

With the aging U.S. population, peripheral vascular procedures will become increasingly common. The objective of this study is to characterize the factors associated with increased total costs after peripheral bypass surgery.

Methods:

Data for 34,819 patients undergoing peripheral bypass surgery in NY State were extracted using the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database for years 2009-2017. Patient demographics, All Patient Refined Diagnostic Related Groups (APR) severity score, mortality risk, hospital volume, and length of stay data were collected. Primary outcomes were total costs and length of stay. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results:

28.1% of peripheral bypass surgeries were performed in New York City. 7.9% of patients had extreme APR severity of illness whereas 32.0% had major APR severity of illness. 6.3% of patients had extreme risk of mortality and 1 in every 5 patients (20%) had major risk of mortality. 24.9% of patients were discharged to a facility. The mean length of stay (LOS) was 9.9 days. Patient LOS of 6-11 days was associated with +$2,791.76 total costs. Mean LOS of ≥ 12 days was associated with + $27,194.88 total costs. Multivariate analysis revealed risk factors associated with an admission listed in the fourth quartile of total costs (≥$36,694.44) for peripheral bypass surgery included NYC location (2.82, CI 2.62-3.04), emergency surgery (1.12, CI 1.03-1.22), extreme APR 2.08, 1.78-2.43, extreme risk of mortality (2.73, 2.34-3.19), emergency room visit (1.68, 1.57-1.81), discharge to a facility (1.27, CI 1.15-1.41), and LOS in the third or fourth quartile (11.09, 9.87-12.46).

Conclusion:

The cost of peripheral bypass surgery in New York State is influenced by a variety of factors including LOS, patient comorbidity and disease severity, an ER admission, and discharge to a facility.
Five-Month Trial of Whole-Food Plant-Based Diet in a Patient With Coexisting Myasthenia Gravis and Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome
Authors: Kim Peter , Arnold Matthew , Gunti Jasmine
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Nutritional intervention, such as a whole-food plant-based (WFPB) diet, is suggested to improve symptoms of autoimmune disorders. Its effects on neuromuscular junction (NMJ) diseases are less known. Case Description: A 56-year-old female with a combined myasthenia gravis and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome presented with persistent musculoskeletal weakness and pain, fatigue, and diminished concentration. Methods: A WFPB diet was implemented for 5 months in this case study. Functionality, biometrics, and quality of life were assessed at regular intervals via blood work, vital signs, and patient surveys. Results: After 10 weeks, 2 medications were de-prescribed due to improvement in blood glucose levels and blood pressure readings. Neuromuscular symptoms lessened as measured by the Myasthenia Gravis Illness Index. Weight loss of 18.7 pounds was achieved. No deterioration in physical activity was reported throughout the 5-month trial of WFPB diet. Discussion: Our results have implications that an individualized dietary strategy may be considered as one component of management of NMJ diseases. The effects of WFPB diet on NMJ diseases remain inconclusive.
A methodology for hygrothermal modelling of imperfect masonry interfaces
Authors: Gutland Michael , Bucking Scott , Santana Quintero Mario
Published: February 2021

Hygrothermal models are important tools for assessing the risk of moisture-related decay mechanisms which can compromise structural integrity, loss of architectural features and material. There are several sources of uncertainty when modelling masonry, related to material properties, boundary conditions, quality of construction and two-dimensional interactions between mortar and unit. This paper examines the uncertainty at the mortar-unit interface with imperfections such as hairline cracks or imperfect contact conditions. These imperfections will alter the rate of liquid transport into and out of the wall and impede the liquid transport between mortar and masonry unit. This means that the effective liquid transport of the wall system will be different then if only properties of the bulk material were modelled. A detailed methodology for modelling this interface as a fracture is presented including definition of material properties for the fracture. The modelling methodology considers the combined effect of both the interface resistance across the mortar-unit interface and increase liquid transport in parallel to the interface, and is generalisable to various combinations of materials, geometries and fracture apertures. Two-dimensional DELPHIN models of a clay brick/cement-mortar masonry wall were created to simulate this interaction. The models were exposed to different boundary conditions to simulate wetting, drying and natural cyclic weather conditions. The results of these simulations were compared to a baseline model where the fracture model was not included. The presence of fractures increased the rate of absorption in the wetting phase and an increased rate of desorption in the drying phase. Under cyclic conditions, the result was higher peak moisture contents after rain events compared to baseline and lower moisture contents after long periods of drying. This demonstrated that detailed modelling of imperfections at the mortar-unit interface can have a definitive influence on results and conclusions from hygrothermal simulations.
Citation Metrics in Psychological Science
Authors: Radosic Nina , Diener Ed
Published: February 2021

We present norms for faculty citation counts based on 811 faculty members at 30 PhD-granting psychology departments in the United States across the range of the National Research Council rankings. The metrics were highly skewed, with most scientists having a low to moderate number of citations of their work and a few scientists having extremely high numbers. However, the median per-year citation count was 149, showing widespread scientific contributions across scholars. Some individuals in lower ranked departments are more highly cited than the average scholar in higher ranked departments, with enormous variation in citation counts in both the low- and high-ranking departments. Citation counts overall have risen in recent years, and the citations of early-career scholars are increasing at a faster rate than their senior colleagues did at the same point in their careers. We found that citation counts at the beginning of scientists’ careers substantially predict lifetime citation success. Young scholars’ citation counts are associated with obtaining positions at higher ranked universities. Finally, we found no significant differences for subfields of psychology. In sum, although a few highly productive scientists have a very large influence, trends reveal that contributions to psychological science are growing over time, widespread, and not limited to a few stars and elite departments.
Ecological Validity and “Ecological Validity”
Authors: Kihlstrom John F.
Published: February 2021

Egon Brunswik coined the term ecological validity to refer to the correlation between perceptual cues and the states and traits of a stimulus. Martin Orne adapted the term to refer to the generalization of experimental findings to the real world outside the laboratory. Both are legitimate uses of the term because the ecological validity of the cues in an experiment determines the ecological validity of the experiment itself.
Arrested Theory Development: The Misguided Distinction Between Exploratory and Confirmatory Research
Authors: Szollosi Aba , Donkin Chris
Published: February 2021

Science progresses by finding and correcting problems in theories. Good theories are those that help facilitate this process by being hard to vary: They explain what they are supposed to explain, they are consistent with other good theories, and they are not easily adaptable to explain anything. Here we argue that, rather than a lack of distinction between exploratory and confirmatory research, an abundance of flexible theories is a better explanation for the current replicability problems of psychology. We also explain why popular methods-oriented solutions fail to address the real problem of flexibility. Instead, we propose that a greater emphasis on theory criticism by argument might improve replicability.
Promises and Perils of Experimentation: The Mutual-Internal-Validity Problem
Authors: Lin Hause , Werner Kaitlyn M. , Inzlicht Michael
Published: February 2021

Researchers run experiments to test theories, search for and document phenomena, develop theories, or advise policymakers. When testing theories, experiments must be internally valid but do not have to be externally valid. However, when experiments are used to search for and document phenomena, develop theories, or advise policymakers, external validity matters. Conflating these goals and failing to recognize their tensions with validity concerns can lead to problems with theorizing. Psychological scientists should be aware of the mutual-internal-validity problem, long recognized by experimental economists. When phenomena elicited by experiments are used to develop theories that, in turn, influence the design of theory-testing experiments, experiments and theories can become wedded to each other and lose touch with reality. They capture and explain phenomena within but not beyond the laboratory. We highlight how triangulation can address validity problems by helping experiments and theories make contact with ideas from other disciplines and the real world.
X-ray diffraction analysis of kaolin M1 and M2 via the Williamson–Hall and Warren–Averbach methods
Authors: Khier Lalmi , Abdelghani Lakel , Okba Belahssen , Maouche Djamel , Said Lakel
Published: February 2021

Kaolin M1 and M2 studied by X-ray diffraction focus on the mullite phase, which is the main phase present in both products. The Williamson–Hall and Warren–Averbach methods for determining the crystallite size and microstrains of integral breadth β are calculated by the FullProf program. The integral breadth ( β) is a mixture resulting from the microstrains and size effect, so this should be taken into account during the calculation. The Williamson–Hall chart determines whether the sample is affected by grain size or microstrain. It appears very clearly that the principal phase of the various sintered kaolins, mullite, is free from internal microstrains. It is the case of the mixtures fritted at low temperature (1200 °C) during 1 h and also the case of the mixtures of the type chamotte cooks with 1350 °C during very long times (several weeks). This result is very significant as it gives an element of explanation to a very significant quality of mullite: its mechanical resistance during uses at high temperature remains.
Factors influencing the adsorption and photocatalysis of direct red 80 in the presence of a TiO2: Equilibrium and kinetics modeling
Authors: Abbas Moussa
Published: February 2021

Among the different photocatalysts, TiO2 ( Eg = 3.1 eV, zero charge point (pHpzc = 6.3), and surface = 55 m2/g) is currently the most efficient and the most studied semiconductor due to its strong photocatalytic activity, non-toxicity, and chemical stability. The elimination of DR-80 on TiO2 is studied by adsorption in batch mode and by application of heterogeneous photocatalysis onto TiO2 under UV irradiation. The effects of contact time (0–60 min), initial pH (3–11), dose of the adsorbent (0.5–3 g L−1), and DR-80 concentration (40–60 mg L−1) on the adsorption of DR-80 by TiO2 are studied for optimization of these parameters. The kinetic parameters, rate constants, and equilibrium adsorption capacities are calculated and discussed for each applied theoretical model. The adsorption of DR-80 is well described by the pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The fitting of the adsorption isotherms shows that the models of Langmuir and Temkin offering a better fit and an adsorption 64.102 mg/g at 25 °C of DR-80 are eliminated. The results showed that the photocatalytic efficiency strongly depends on the pH while the initial rate of photodegradation is proportional to the catalyst dose, and becomes almost constant above a threshold value. It was found that the photodegradation is favored at low DR-80 concentrations in accordance with the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model with the constants Kad = 6.5274 L/mg and KL–H = 0.17818 mg L−1 min. However, the adsorption is improved for high DR-80 concentrations. It is found that the degradation depends on both the temperature and the pH with a high elimination rate at high temperature. The photocatalyst TiO2 has a better activity for the degradation of DR-80, compared to some commercial catalysts that have been described in the literature.
A study of the binding between radicicol and four proteins by means of spectroscopy and molecular docking
Authors: Gan Ya , Bai Ning , Li Xitong , Gao Shuiting , Wang Ruiyong
Published: February 2021

The interactions between radicicol and four proteins (catalase, trypsin, pepsin, and human serum protein) are investigated by spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking. A static quenching process is confirmed. The binding constant value between radicicol and human serum protein is the largest among the four proteins. Results reveal changes in the micro-environment of the protein by the addition of radicicol. It is found that radicicol shows an inhibitory effect on the activity of proteins (catalase, trypsin, and pepsin). Molecular docking results are consistent with the thermodynamic experimental results. This work provides clues to the elucidation of the mechanisms of the interactions between radicicol and proteins.
Meeting the UK Government’s prevention agenda: primary care practitioners can be trained in skills to prevent disease and support self-management
Authors: Lawrence W , Watson D , Barker H , Vogel C , Rahman E , Barker M
Published: February 2021

Aims:

The NHS Long Term Plan has a prevention focus and ambition to support patients to self-manage disease through improving health behaviours. An essential requirement of self-management is behaviour change, but many practitioners have not been trained in skills to support behaviour change. ‘Healthy Conversation Skills’ (HCS) training was developed at the University of Southampton for this purpose. This article reports on a pilot study that aimed to assess the feasibility of primary care practitioners adopting HCS in their routine practice. It describes their experiences and level of competence post-training.

Methods:

Health Education England (Wessex) commissioned HCS training for 18 primary care practitioners. Fifteen of these practitioners were subsequently observed in their consultations at one or two time points; face-to-face semi-structured, reflective feedback interviews were conducted immediately following the observations. Practitioners’ HCS competence was assessed from the observations and interviews using a previously developed and published coding rubric. The interview data were analysed thematically to understand practitioners’ experiences of using the new skills.

Results:

Practitioners demonstrated competence in embedding the skills into their routine practice following HCS training. They reflected on how patients liked being asked questions, the usefulness of setting SMARTER (Specific, Measured, Action-oriented, Realistic, Timed, Evaluated and Reviewed) goals and the power of listening. They could also identify facilitators of skill use and ways to overcome challenges such as patients with competing priorities and organisational constraints. They found the skills valuable as a way of empowering patients to make changes to manage their own health.

Conclusions:

HCS are acceptable to primary care practitioners, can be readily adopted into their routine consultations and are a helpful strategy for supporting patients to make changes. HCS training has the potential to be a sustainable, scalable and effective way of contributing to the prevention agenda by supporting disease self-management, and hence of addressing today’s epidemic of lifestyle-related conditions.
Comparison of inhaled methoxyflurane versus procedural sedation for manipulation and reduction of acute shoulder and elbow dislocation in the emergency department
Authors: Ho Shu Fang , Ganti Sameera , Omar Eunizar , Lian Sherman Wei Qiang , Tan Hui Cheng , Pasupathy Yogeswary , Jaafar Norizan , Zarisfi Faraz , Ong Marcus Eng Hock
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

This paper compares the usage of inhaled methoxyflurane versus traditional procedural sedation and analgesia for manipulation and reduction of acute shoulder dislocation and acute elbow dislocation in the emergency department.

Methods:

This was a retrospective observational study of patients who presented with either acute shoulder dislocation or acute elbow dislocation to an adult tertiary emergency department between 1 April 2018 and 30 September 2019 and underwent manipulation and reduction with either methoxyflurane or procedural sedation and analgesia. Primary outcomes of patients’ length of stay in the emergency department and secondary outcomes of duration of procedure and success of reduction on first attempt for inhaled methoxyflurane were compared against those of procedural sedation and analgesia.

Results:

A total of 192 patients were included in this study; 74 patients underwent reduction with methoxyflurane while 118 patients (85 acute shoulder dislocation and 33 acute elbow dislocation) underwent reduction with procedural sedation and analgesia. The median length of stay in the emergency department was significantly shorter ( P<0.001) for the methoxyflurane group (99 minutes, interquartile range (IQR) 136.8 minutes) versus the procedural sedation and analgesia group (246.5 minutes, IQR 163 minutes). The median duration of procedure in the emergency department was also significantly shorter ( P<0.001) for the methoxyflurane group (16 minutes, IQR 17 minutes) versus the procedural sedation and analgesia group (32 minutes, IQR 40.3 minutes). There was no significant difference in reduction on first attempt between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The use of inhaled methoxyflurane in the manipulation and reduction of acute shoulder dislocation and acute elbow dislocation was associated with a shorter patient length of stay and a shorter duration of procedure, while no significant difference was observed in the success of reduction on first attempt when compared to procedural sedation and analgesia.
Male accessory gland inflammation (MAGI): an evolving entity
Authors: Noweir Hosam A. , Modgil Vaibhav , Pearce Ian
Published: February 2021

Male accessory gland infection (MAGI) is a generic acronym indicating inflammatory conditions affecting the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, the ductus deferens and the epididymis. It is a frequent disease, mostly with a chronic course. Majority of the MAGIs remain asymptomatic, thereby leading to a debate whether to treat these patients or not. The primary criterion for MAGI was suggested by Comhaire and colleagues in 1980. The role of MAGI in causing infertility and sexual dysfunctions has long been a matter of debate. The most recent studies show that MAGI could alter, with various mechanisms, both conventional and biofunctional sperm parameters, and determine worst reproductive outcome. This article provides an overview of up-to-date research findings about MAGI with special focus on data published on its impact on fertility; and diagnostic criteria including cellular and seminal biomarkers along with the promising results of emerging proteomic platforms for the identification of MAGI.
High valuations, uncertainty, and war
Authors: Malone Iris , Spaniel William
Published: February 2021

Many theories of war predict conflict becomes more likely as a state increasingly values the prize at stake. This article showcases an important limit. If—as in many cases—a state has uncertainty over its opponent’s material cost of fighting, then increasing the opponent’s valuation can decrease the probability of war. Why? Uncertainty condenses the various types’ reservation values, reducing the peace premium and incentivizing a proposer to make safer offers. We also recover an analogous result under some conditions with uncertainty over power. The results indicate that higher valuations of the prize do not have a clear-cut relationship with the probability of war.
A reconsideration on telling good stories about Chinese scientists and shaping the exemplary image of scientists amid the anti-pandemic campaign
Authors: Ren Fujun
Published: February 2021

Shaping Chinese scientists’ positive social image is imperative to promote the spirit of scientists and scientific innovation. This paper studies the historical evolution and current situation of Chinese scientists’ social image and analyses the necessary elements for telling good stories about Chinese scientists. By introducing various work on shaping scientists’ image against the current background of anti-pandemic combat and the social influence of that work, the paper also explores how to tell the stories of scientists well in the post-pandemic era. Such research is significant for guiding further implementation of the Opinions on Further Promoting the Spirit of Scientists and Academic Integrity, telling good stories about scientists and establishing their good image. It is also meaningful in creating a scientific culture that advocates science, respects scientists and encourages scientific innovation.