bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In defence of common values: The Finnish EU Council Presidency 2019
Authors: Tuominen Hanna
Published: February 2022

Finland promoted a value-based agenda as the President of the European Union (EU) Council in 2019. The focus was especially on the defence of the rule of law principle. A role as a strong value promoter departs from the pragmatic and cautious tradition of Finnish EU policy. In this article, I will ask why Finland chose to promote values, and what kind of political debate preceded its Presidency term. Second, I will look at the actual promotion of the common values during the Presidency. Third, I will provide some evaluations of the success of Finland’s value-based approach. The analysis draws from comprehensive documentary sources related to Finnish EU policy and her Presidency term, and from 33 semi-structured research interviews among the key Finnish politicians, civil servants and civil society organization representatives in 2020. The article shows that values were thoroughly debated before the term and their relevance increased as the Presidency approached. Finland also succeeded in promoting several values, especially by linking them to practical questions. The article argues that evaluating the success of Finland’s approach is more contentious, which may be tackled several ways.
Burned-Out Classroom Climate, Intrinsic Motivation, and Academic Engagement: Exploring Unresolved Issues in the Job Demand-Resource Model
Authors: Cho Soohyun , Lee Minyoung , Lee Sang Min
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to test the multilevel mediating effect of intrinsic motivation on the relationship between burned-out classroom climate and academic engagement and theoretically investigate the unresolved issues in the Job Demands-Resources model. Data were collected from 1015 high school students from 43 classes. Multilevel structural equation modeling indicated that a high level of burned-out classroom climate was related to a low level of academic engagement. In addition, intrinsic motivation mediated the path from burned-out classroom climate to academic engagement. Practical implications to improve classroom climate and academic engagement are discussed.
Performance-Based Authoritarianism Revisited: GDP Growth and the Political Fortunes of China’s Provincial Leaders
Authors: Sheng Yumin
Published: February 2022

An influential performance-based authoritarianism thesis attributes China’s reform-era economic success to merit-based political selection whereby the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has persistently rewarded with career advancement local leaders overseeing fast GDP growth. Yet voluminous empirical research on whether boosting local economic growth has bestowed career advantages on provincial leaders remains inconclusive due to the assumption of static preferences of the national leadership for unbridled GDP growth and inconsistency in data measurement in studies with disparate time coverage. Employing annual individual-level data consistently coded with a general measure of career mobility and a rigorous measure of relative economic performance, I reexamine how provincial GDP growth affected the career outcomes of the governors and provincial party secretaries under different CCP national chiefs spanning the entire reform era. My findings challenge the sweeping, one-sided conventional wisdom and call for greater attention to shifting political and economic contexts in theoretical and empirical research on contemporary China.
Multi-objective risk-based optimal power system operation with renewable energy resources and battery energy storage system: A novel Hybrid Modified Grey Wolf Optimization–Sine Cosine Algorithm approach
Authors: Paul Kaushik
Published: February 2022

This research work proposes a Hybrid Modified Grey Wolf Optimization–Sine Cosine Algorithm for the multi-objective optimal scheduling of hybrid power system taking into consideration the risk factor arising due to the intermittent/uncertain nature of the renewable power generation sources. The hybrid power system is modelled considering the thermal generation units, wind energy system, solar photo voltaic system, electric vehicle and battery energy storage system. The multi-objective optimization problem is proposed based on the simultaneous minimization of the total operating cost and system risk. The conditional value at risk is introduced as the risk index to analyse the system risk due to uncertainties in power deliveries by the renewable energy resources, electric vehicle and battery energy storage system during the scheduling process. The integral contribution of this research work focuses on the establishment an optimal generation schedule based on the combined optimization of the total operating cost and system risk. The simultaneous minimization of the operating cost and the risk index is performed with the multi-objective Hybrid Modified Grey Wolf Optimization–Sine Cosine Algorithm and has been used to develop a Pareto-optimal front. The implementation of the fuzzy min–max technique is opted to fetch the best compromised solution. The standard test systems of IEEE-30 bus and Indian-75 bus system are used to validate the potency of the proposed approach. Comparative analysis has been established to highlight the results obtained with the proposed approach is appreciable than other optimization techniques.
What Drives Daily Perseverance and Passion? Grit, Conscientiousness, and Goal Pursuit Experiences
Authors: Jiang Wen , Tang Xin , Ye Jingyan , Jiang Jiang
Published: February 2022

Two studies were conducted to further the understanding of daily experiences of perseverance and passion and the influences of personality traits (e.g., grit and conscientiousness) and contextual factors. Study 1 applied the experience sampling method ( n = 116; observations = 5,187) and found that perseverance of effort (PE) predicted passion when controlling for conscientiousness. Study 2 used the day reconstruction method ( n = 468; observations = 1,872) and found that both PE and consistency of interest (CI) had effects, although CI was a stronger predictor than PE. In both studies, PE was moderated only by instrumentality of the activity, whereas CI was moderated only by perceived difficulty. We also found mediating effects of instrumentality, (lower) perceived difficulty, and (fewer) intrusive thoughts on the pathways between traits and perseverance and passion. These results deepen our knowledge on why and how perseverance-related traits impact daily experiences of perseverance and passion.
Direct democracy, personality, and political interest in comparative perspective
Authors: Freitag Markus , Zumbrunn Alina
Published: February 2022

For many, direct democracy is said to increase political interest. To date, however, empirical findings regarding this relationship remain inconclusive. In this article, we claim that this inconclusiveness can be partly ascribed to the diverse effects that direct democracy has on individuals. In other words, direct democracy influences political interest, but how and to what degree depends on an individual’s personality traits. Running hierarchical regression models with survey data from random samples of eligible American and Swiss voters, we arrive at the following three conclusions: First, in both countries, the use of direct democracy is not directly connected to political interest. Second, the Big Five personality traits affect the interest in politics. Third, neuroticism, in particular, alters the relationship between direct democracy and political interest, suggesting that a certain personality type is likely to be more sensitive to popular votes, and a vibrant democratic environment can help to inspire interest in politics for people who, because of their personality, tend to be detached from it. Quite intriguingly, these relationships hold irrespective of the country and research period.
Body mass index is associated with Helicobacter pylori infection and increased oxidative DNA damage in an obese population
Authors: Nasif Wesam Ahmed , Hasan Mukhtar Mohammed , El-Moursy Ali Abeer Shaker , Nour Eldein Mohamed Mahmoud , Almaimani Riyad Adnan , Ashgar Sami Sadagah
Published: February 2022

Objective

To determine the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in a Saudi Arabian population and its association with the body mass index (BMI) and serum 8-hydroxy deoxyguanine (8-OHdG) levels as biomarker for oxidative stress.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled patients that had experienced epigastric discomfort or dyspepsia for > 1 month and had undergone diagnostic upper endoscopy. Patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 were defined as obese. The presence of anti- H. pylori antibodies was confirmed using an H. pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of 8-OHdG were measured using a competitive inhibition enzyme immunoassay.

Results

A total of 298 patients were enrolled in the study. Of these, 186 (62.4%) patients were H. pylori-positive and 112 (37.6%) patients were H. pylori-negative. The mean ± SD age of the overall study cohort was 47.17 ± 9.27 years. The H. pylori-positive patients had significantly higher levels of H. pylori IgG antibodies than H. pylori-negative patients. H. pylori prevalence linearly correlated with BMI quantile. The 8-OHdG levels were strongly associated with the BMI of the patients in the H. pylori-positive group.

Conclusion

Obese individuals exhibited higher H. pylori prevalence than individuals with a lean BMI (BMI < 25.00 kg/m2).
Debating Uneven and Combined Development/Debating International Relations: A Forum
Authors: Rosenberg Justin , Zarakol Ayşe , Blagden David , Rutazibwa Olivia , Gray Kevin , Corry Olaf , Matin Kamran , Antunes de Oliveira Felipe , Cooper Luke
Published: February 2022

This forum arises from an online event on the theory of uneven and combined development (UCD). Following an introduction which proposes a ‘special affinity’ between UCD and International Relations (IR), four presenters at that event discuss their ‘view from outside’ UCD, including perspectives from Global Historical Sociology, Realism, Decolonial theory and Gramscian Marxism. Meanwhile four members of the audience add their views on UCD and disciplinarity, the need for pluralism in UCD methodology, UCD and ‘whiteness’, and its potential contribution to ecological theory and practice.

Débattre du développement inégal et combiné/Débattre des relations internationales
Transcribing public libraries as revitalized ethical spaces
Authors: Frayne Alison
Published: February 2022

Referencing human rights and library literature, this article seeks to contribute to an understanding of how the IFLA Statement on Libraries and Intellectual Freedom is articulated by library associations and libraries, whose policies are structured by institutional mandates that determine library function. The article re-envisages intellectual freedom premised on a collective identity of fairness, justice and equality. Drawing on the IFLA Statement, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, this article uses a rhetorical analysis methodology to discuss the re-envisioning of library functionality in contemporary society. Public libraries are unique public institutions that carry people’s stories in the literatures and knowledges they hold. They open the way for everyone to engage actively with ethical statements that reflect a collective of voices, where intellectual freedoms extend the narrative of collective memories.
Quantification of Thermal Uniformity for Asphalt Paving Using the Thermal Segregation Index
Authors: Tanquist Bruce , Embacher Rebecca , Chang George K. , Dick Jason
Published: February 2022

Thermal and mechanical segregation are significant asphalt paving issues that affect the quality of asphalt pavements. Both types of segregation can be caused by inadequate mix material production, material delivery, and paving operation. Severe segregation results in lower in-place asphalt densities, which affect pavement performance. Measuring thermal segregation with technology such as paver mounted thermal profiling (PMTP) is critical to ensuring pavement quality. PMTP can continuously measure surface temperature profiles behind the trailing edge of a paver screed with an infrared sensor or photogrammetry. PMTP can also track paver speeds, stop locations, and stop durations. The differential range statistic (DRS) was created in the 2000s to evaluate thermal segregation. However, the DRS does not always adequately capture narrow bands of longitudinal thermal segregation caused by poor auger extension setup, mix building up beneath the reverse auger box and/or slat conveyors, worn deflector plates, and so forth. This paper introduces the thermal segregation index (TSI), which combines overall 2D sublot thermal uniformity and lateral thermal uniformity to overcome DRS’ shortcomings. The TSI combines the transverse semivariogram index (TSVI) and standard deviation (StDev) for sublots of 45.7 m (150 ft) in length. TSVI represents the lateral thermal uniformity in the transverse direction, while StDev represents the overall sublot temperature variation and is comparable with the DRS method. The TSI method was validated with an extensive thermal profile database and implemented in the Veta software allowing agencies and contractors to identify thermal segregation reliably and timely to conduct adequate corrective actions to resolve mix and paving issues.
What drives WEEE recycling? A comparative study concerning legislation, collection and recycling
Authors: Dias Pablo Ribeiro , Cenci Marcelo Pilotto , Bernardes Andréa Moura , Huda Nazmul
Published: February 2022

Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) has been rising worldwide, and its improper management incurs in economic losses and environmental damage. To provide a better understanding of the forces that drive the management of WEEE, economic and political roles are discussed by comparing the WEEE recycling system of Brazil and Australia. Additional insights about the recycling systems were gathered from interviews with recyclers of both countries (in-loco visits and online/phone surveys). Previous studies show that both countries act as first stage recyclers, dismantling WEEE to ship their valuable components for international recyclers (such as printed circuit boards) while keeping less valuable material (such as polymeric and ferrous pieces). Australia has defined the responsibilities of most agents involved in the WEEE management and recycling setup, while Brazil inadvertently has left the system to be defined through free market regulation. As Brazil recently signed a reverse logistic agreement, there is an important opportunity to channel WEEE into formal routes and implement improvements in the entire recycling system (some suggestions are provided). Australian recyclers were found more organised in their disassembly lines, and some characteristics of the Australian model can be adapted for the Brazilian benefit. In conclusion, economic factors will drive first stage recycling (where labour wages are a small fraction of the total costs) and international downstream recycling, while a political framework is necessary to establish a comprehensive collection system, first stage recycling (where wages are representative) and domestic downstream recycling, given these are generally non-profitable activities in the short term.
Characterization and functional evaluation of surface texture of micro eccentric shaft based on multi-index
Authors: Cheng Minghui , Jiao Li , Yan Pei , Niu Zhongke , Qiu Tianyang , Wang Xibin
Published: February 2022

Micro eccentric shaft has important application in many high-tech fields because of its small specific gravity, material, and energy saving. The machined surface texture has an indispensable influence on the surface integrity and the final functional capability. However, due to the micro scale and weak rigidity, it is difficult to characterize the surface texture and evaluate the functionality by traditional quantitative parameters. In order to comprehensively realize the surface texture characterization and functional analysis, a mathematical model is established to simulate the surface texture machined with different cutting tools. Then the surface microscopic profile and functional performance of the surface texture are analyzed by amplitude distribution function (ADF) and bearing area curve (BAC), and the surface texture is also evaluated by fractal dimension, which can avoid the negative effects of scale and resolution. Furthermore, power spectrum density (PSD) is utilized to analyze the relationship between the process dynamic state and geometrical specification of the surface texture. The validity of experimental results shown that the microscopic height distribution of surface machined by flat end milling cutter tends to be more random and there are more microscopic geometric features than that of the ball end milling cutter. The machined surface obtained by the flat end milling cutter has better load bearing, wear resistance, and liquid retention capability.
Moral Frames Are Persuasive and Moralize Attitudes; Nonmoral Frames Are Persuasive and De-Moralize Attitudes
Authors: Kodapanakkal Rabia I. , Brandt Mark J. , Kogler Christoph , van Beest Ilja
Published: February 2022

Moral framing and reframing strategies persuade people holding moralized attitudes (i.e., attitudes having a moral basis). However, these strategies may have unintended side effects: They have the potential to moralize people’s attitudes further and as a consequence lower their willingness to compromise on issues. Across three experimental studies with adult U.S. participants (Study 1: N = 2,151, Study 2: N = 1,590, Study 3: N = 1,015), we used persuasion messages (moral, nonmoral, and control) that opposed new big-data technologies (crime-surveillance technologies and hiring algorithms). We consistently found that moral frames were persuasive and moralized people’s attitudes, whereas nonmoral frames were persuasive and de-moralized people’s attitudes. Moral frames also lowered people’s willingness to compromise and reduced behavioral indicators of compromise. Exploratory analyses suggest that feelings of anger and disgust may drive moralization, whereas perceiving the technologies to be financially costly may drive de-moralization. The findings imply that use of moral frames can increase and entrench moral divides rather than bridge them.
Multi-professional ethical competence in healthcare – an ethical practice model
Authors: Koskinen Camilla , Kaldestad Kari , Rossavik Bente Dorrit , Ree Jensen Anne , Bjerga Grethe
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The starting point is that ethical competence is the basis for ethical healthcare practices and quality of care. Simultaneously, there is a need for research and development from a holistic multi-professional perspective.

Aim

The aim is to create a proposed model for multi-professional ethical competence grounded in clarified meanings and dimensions of ethical competence studied from a multi-professional healthcare perspective. The research questions are, what is ethical competence from a multi-professional healthcare perspective and what strengthens a multi-professional ethical healthcare practice?

Research design

The research has a qualitative approach and hermeneutic application research design. Two groups with six participants from clinical practice and two scientific researchers in each group met four times for dialogue. Thematic analysis was used as an analysis method.

Ethical considerations

The research is approved by the Declaration of Helsinki, the General Data Protection Regulations, and ethical permission was asked from the Norwegian Centre for Research Data (NSD).

Results

The proposed model for multi-professional ethical competence encompasses a three-dimensional ethical value base that is underpinned by: Ethical attitude – a personal desire to do good; Ethical basis – the best for the patient as a common goal and Ethical culture – common goals and values in the organization. Multi-professional ethical competence is strengthened by: Reflection – to see with new wondering eyes; Time for talk – interdisciplinary teamwork and Leadership – an ethical role model and support.

Discussion

Ethical competence has a strong link to the core of caring ethics and a deeper personal value base and attitude. Ethical competence involves the whole culture and is seen as a shared value base and a responsibility to do the best for the patient as a multi-professional team and organization. Ethical competence becomes active in healthcare practice by opening up for meaningful multi-professional talks and reflections.
From “combined-but-not-unified” to “integrated isolation” - Greek banking in Europe 2010–2015
Authors: Labrinidis George , Lindo Duncan
Published: February 2022

Between 2010 and 2015 Greek banks received capital injections as part of an EU-led rescue package that left the Greek state with large losses on their investments and a debt to repay; in the most acute moments of the crisis the European central bank twice forced the Bank of Greece to assume sole responsibility for any losses on lending to Greek banks, and; in 2015 Greek banks were subject to EU-mandated controls that restricted the transformation of Greek bank deposits into Euros in other forms. Why did European banking infrastructure leave the Greek state facing losses and liabilities alone, while still full members of the EU and Euro Area (EA)? We find that European banking infrastructure is combined-but-not-unified, and that integration requires both. Drawing on Marxist political economy we examine the financial mechanisms in detail and find a scalar split in state provision of banking infrastructure in the EU/EA. At the supranational level, the removal of barriers to cross-border banking and a common rule book. Meanwhile, promises of monetary support, such as deposit guarantees and lending of last resort have largely remained the responsibility of nation states. The combined-but-not-unified structure ensured that when crisis struck, Greece was isolated, yet still fully part of the EU/EA.
The Hidden Labors of Adult Learning: Emotional, Gendered, and the Intersection
Authors: Neal Makena , Espinoza Benjamin D.
Published: February 2022

Arlie Hochschild’s theory of emotional labor (1983) has become a staple framework for understanding the tension that exists between outward emotional expression and inward emotional realities. In it, Hoschild (1983) introduces us to the idea of emotional management, the expectations that are put on us to manipulate the display of our emotions—act—in order to put the experiences of others first. Recently, however, several articles in popular media have used emotional labor to describe labor that deviates from Hochschild’s (1983) original definition. In doing so, popular discourse has highlighted a kind of labor that has historically gone unnamed in the academy. The implications of not naming this other form of labor and instead morphing Hochschild’s original definition yield many consequences if left unchecked. The purpose of this article is to step into the conversation on emotional labor, highlight the gap in language to describe the various types of labor performed by adult learners, and introduce the idea of gendered labor as a way to be better informed in serving adult learners in ongoing development.
Epigenetic Inheritance From Normal Origin Cells Can Determine the Aggressive Biology of Tumor-Initiating Cells and Tumor Heterogeneity
Authors: Feng Jiliang , Zhao Dawei , Lv Fudong , Yuan Zhongyu
Published: February 2022

The acquisition of genetic- and epigenetic-abnormalities during transformation has been recognized as the two fundamental factors that lead to tumorigenesis and determine the aggressive biology of tumor cells. However, there is a regularity that tumors derived from less-differentiated normal origin cells (NOCs) usually have a higher risk of vascular involvement, lymphatic and distant metastasis, which can be observed in both lymphohematopoietic malignancies and somatic cancers. Obviously, the hypothesis of genetic- and epigenetic-abnormalities is not sufficient to explain how the linear relationship between the cellular origin and the biological behavior of tumors is formed, because the cell origin of tumor is an independent factor related to tumor biology. In a given system, tumors can originate from multiple cell types, and tumor-initiating cells (TICs) can be mapped to different differentiation hierarchies of normal stem cells, suggesting that the heterogeneity of the origin of TICs is not completely chaotic. TIC’s epigenome includes not only genetic- and epigenetic-abnormalities, but also established epigenetic status of genes inherited from NOCs. In reviewing previous studies, we found much evidence supporting that the status of many tumor-related “epigenetic abnormalities” in TICs is consistent with that of the corresponding NOC of the same differentiation hierarchy, suggesting that they may not be true epigenetic abnormalities. So, we speculate that the established statuses of genes that control NOC’s migration, adhesion and colonization capabilities, cell-cycle quiescence, expression of drug transporters, induction of mesenchymal formation, overexpression of telomerase, and preference for glycolysis can be inherited to TICs through epigenetic memory and be manifested as their aggressive biology. TICs of different origins can maintain different degrees of innate stemness from NOC, which may explain why malignancies with stem cell phenotypes are usually more aggressive.
Comparison of Illicit Drug Seizures Products of Natural Origin Using a Molecular Networking Approach
Authors: Le Daré Brendan , Allard Sophie , Couette Aurélien , Allard Pierre-Marie , Morel Isabelle , Gicquel Thomas
Published: February 2022

Drug powder composition analysis is of particular interest in forensic investigations to identify illicit substance content, cutting agents and impurities. Powder profiling is difficult to implement due to multiple analytical methods requirement and remains a challenge for forensic toxicology laboratories. Furthermore, visualization tools allowing seizure products identification appear to be under-used to date. The aim of this study is to present the utility of molecular networking for the composition establishment of natural origin drugs. A powder suspected to contain heroin and three powders suspected to contain cocaine obtained from law enforcement agency seizures were analyzed using untargeted screening by liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS). Molecular networking and metabolite annotation applied to suspected heroin sample allowed rapid confirmation of its illicit content (heroin), the identification of structurally related major impurities (6-monoacetylmorphine, 6-monoacetylcodeine, noscapine, and papaverine), as well as cutting agents (acetaminophen and caffeine). The cocaine powder profiling allowed the comparison of its constituents in a semi-quantitative manner (cocaine, benzoylecgonine, trans/cis-cinnamoylcocaine, trimethoxycocaine, hexanoylecgonine methylester, caffeine, hydroxyzine, levamisole, and phenacetin), bringing additional information for their identification, including geographically sourcing of natural product and their putative place in the supply chain. Although this approach does not replace the profiling techniques used by forensic laboratories, the use of molecular networks provides a visual overview of structurally related constituents which aids the comparison and investigation of seizure powders. Molecular networks offers here an ideal way to depict structurally related and unrelated compounds in these often complex mixtures of chemicals.
Fading kitten syndrome: Factors predisposing to ‘faders’ and treatment options
Authors: Münnich Andrea
Published: February 2022

Practical relevance:

Fading kitten syndrome is a condition where one or more kittens of a litter are born apparently healthy but gradually become inactive, sick and die; typically faders are considered those that die during the first 2 weeks of life. Fading has many potential aetiologies, including a wide variety of infectious, toxic, traumatic, metabolic and genetic diseases. Regardless of the underlying cause, the approach to a sick neonate is similar, and initiating supportive care is the first priority, followed by a detailed physical examination. Where possible, the cause of disease should be determined, and this may inform adjustments to the treatment protocol.

Clinical challenges:

Most perinatal and neonatal diseases present similarly and a specific cause cannot usually be determined from clinical signs alone, which can make diagnosis challenging. When examining a kitten, it is important to remember that there are distinct physiological differences between adults and neonates. In addition, some procedures can be more difficult to perform than in adults, such as blood collection, and some diagnostic tests are harder to interpret, such as radiography. When treating kittens, differences compared with adults again need to be considered.

Aim:

The aim of this review is to provide guidance to veterinarians who are presented with a fading kitten. As well as reviewing the potential causes of fading kitten syndrome, the diagnostic approach and treatment options are discussed. Algorithms summarising possible pathways to neonatal mortality in kittens, and diagnostic and therapeutic options in fading kittens, are also provided.

Evidence base:

Information provided in this review is based on the published feline literature and papers discussing puppies and/or a range of species including cats, as well as the author’s own clinical experience.
Sensing: The elephant in the room of management learning
Authors: Bas Alina , Sinclair Marta , Dörfler Viktor
Published: February 2022

This conceptual paper examines reasons why analytically educated learners may be reluctant to engage in sensory-based learning. Sensing is indispensable for constructing knowledge and should be employed on par with the intellect, particularly in today’s complex and uncertain context. Yet, we have observed learners’ reluctance to engage with sensing and attempted to understand the reasons for it. Our theoretical contribution illuminates the underlying causes of this phenomenon, thus furthering the study of sensing in the fields of individual learning and management learning. Our practical contribution prompts researchers, learners, educators, and managers to think more systematically about ways to overcome this reluctance and openly bring sensing into management learning practice on par with intellectual processing. With the help of phenomenal theorizing, the presented exploratory study identifies the following common barriers to sensory-based learning for analytically educated learners: corporate social norms against sensory-based evidence, discomfort of learning outside of one’s comfort zone, inadequate vocabulary for sensory experiences, lack of sensory awareness, preference for sequential reasoning, mistrust in sensory-based evidence, dismissive attitude, and denying (or not admitting to) the use of sensing.
Custom thumbnails: The changing face of personalisation strategies on Netflix
Authors: Eklund Oliver
Published: February 2022

Thumbnails, the small artworks used to visually sort the user interface on Video-on-demand platforms, are personalised and customised for users on prominent Subscription Video-On-Demand platform Netflix. This content strategy of customisation falls in line with other content strategies from Netflix’s past and is reflective of the increased personalisation of the consumer experience in the age of digital distribution. A pilot survey of Netflix user thumbnails gathers an initial set of data on the breadth of thumbnail personalisation on Netflix, and reflects on the ways that thumbnails, understood as paratexts, can demonstrate divergent content appeals to users, broadening the available ways to understand film and television texts and platforms themselves. This research centres the role of the thumbnail as a paratext that frames understanding of content and the broader platform, and in doing so visualises and humanises a vital aspect of algorithmic culture.
Understanding weight stigma in eating disorder treatment: Development and initial validation of a treatment-based stigma scale
Authors: Chen Crystal , Gonzales Lauren
Published: February 2022

Weight stigma is a well-established risk factor for eating disorder pathology, and it is prevalent among healthcare professionals. The current investigation developed and psychometrically validated the Scale for Treatment-based Experiences of Weight Stigma (STEWS) for patient-centered assessment of weight-stigmatizing experiences in eating disorder treatment. Former eating disorder patients ( N = 142) with a body-mass-index greater than 25.0 were recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk. The STEWS demonstrated good internal consistency, convergent validity with widely used weight stigma scales, and incremental validity in predicting eating disorder symptomatology. The STEWS is the first psychometrically sound instrument for treatment-based weight stigma in eating disorder recovery.
Influence of extraction methods on mechanical, absorption and morphological properties of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) natural fibre composites: Environmental threat to successive commercial products
Authors: Ajithram A , Winowlin Jappes JT , Siva I , Brintha NC
Published: February 2022

The goal of this research is to identify different types of water hyacinth plant fibre extraction methods, and what effect each of those methods has on mechanical, absorption and morphological properties of water hyacinth fibre composites. The main objective of this study was to identify some new extraction techniques to efficiently remove the aquatic waste of water hyacinth plants, and convert this biological waste into some successful commercial products. The first method of extraction in our study was the conventional retting method, followed by a manual extraction method, a hot water extraction method and a chemical hot water boiling method. The extraction process is then carried out with the help of an automated machine using a bare motor. The aim of this project is to increase the mechanical strength of hyacinth fibre by producing large quantities of fibre and by finding an optimal fibre extraction process. In the process of compression moulding, the fibres obtained from different extraction methods are combined with an epoxy matrix material to produce polymer composite samples. The mechanical strength, hardness and surface morphologies of the differently extracted water hyacinth fibre-reinforced composite samples are analysed in this work.
Parents’ attitudes and unequal opportunities in early childhood development: Evidence from Eastern India
Authors: Ghosh Saikat , Steinberg Hannah
Published: February 2022

Early childhood development is considered a crucial component for sustainable development, and parents’ roles in this regard is unambiguously acknowledged. However, the evidence is sparsely available from developing countries like India on how parents can influence access to the early childhood development program. This study, based on an empirical footing, investigates whether parental attitude may lead to unequal opportunities in children’s access to preschools in India. The study portrays that the negative or indifferent attitude of parents predicts significantly lower access to preschools. Also, parents’ education can be held responsible for the variation in parents’ attitudes toward early education and care. A two-prong policy measure is thus suggested by educating parents on one hand and involving them in the implementation process of childhood development programs on the other.
Childminding professionalism and professionalisation in Ireland: A different story
Authors: O’Regan Miriam , Halpenny Ann Marie , Hayes Nóirín
Published: February 2022

This research focussed on documenting the praxis and paedagogy of paid, professional childminding (family childcare/day care) in Ireland. It explored professionalism and professionalisation among childminders in the context of the evolving understanding of professionalism in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) nationally and internationally. The research was conducted within the framework of Ecocultural Theory (ECT) on the eve of mandatory regulation of childminding against the backdrop of Irish ECEC policy. A mixed method approach was adopted, using the Ecocultural Family Interview for Childminders (EFICh), including participants’ photographs, case study surveys, researcher field notes and holistic ratings. We present findings related to childminder professionalism and professionalisation, highlighting its significant differences from centre-based provision. It is vital to understand childminding as an ecocultural adaptation to create a stable family niche, relationally and economically. It helps to explain childminders’ approach to just-in-time training as adult learners, their desire for public recognition of childminding’s differences and unique value, and their need for supportive supervision in their family home ahead of annual inspection. Imposed professionalism is rejected in favour of a participatory approach sensitive to agentic childminders’ professional development. To support and develop professional 21st century childminding, Ireland requires a tailored regulatory system specific to childminding.
Netflix in Mexico: An Example of the Tech Giant’s Transnational Business Strategies
Authors: Gómez Rodrigo , Muñoz Larroa Argelia
Published: February 2022

Netflix, as a tech company, is currently the largest global streaming platform challenging traditional US studios. This article analyses Netflix’s transnational business strategies disrupting such status quo by focusing, on one local example: Mexico. Literature on Netflix has identified some of the transnational strategies studied here, this article adds to the discussion the use of local elements to infiltrate the power hub of Hollywood. By using the holistic scope of Political Economy, this research presents an integrated examination of: (a) the structural conditions of the Mexican audiovisual system in which Netflix is immersed; (b) the tech company’s expansion strategies; (c) the case of the movie Roma as a pivot-like tactic to push forward different company goals. The article argues that Netflix, by setting a new form of audiovisual circulation through innovation technology, has understood the key areas to break the audiovisual market value chain allowing it to gain global dominance.
School Choice, Competition, and Disruptions for a High-Achieving Traditional Public School
Authors: Kotok Stephen , Sorden Alexa
Published: February 2022

Principals and superintendents operating in high-choice environments are often faced with enrollment challenges as they compete for students. This case study examines the experience of a principal at Crossroads Elementary—a high-performing, culturally responsive, and innovative traditional public school that struggles to retain many of its older students. Despite outperforming most elementary schools in New York City and seemingly doing “everything right,” most of their older students transferred to charter school networks as they approach middle school. We discuss implications in terms of equity, ethics, community engagement, and planning in high-choice districts.
The unified medical prescription as a tool to promote generic prescription: A cross-sectional study addressing physicians’ perception in Lebanon
Authors: Hatem Georges , Lahoud Elsa , Halwani Leyan , Mcheik Farah , Khachman Dalia , Awada Sanaa
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCTION: The unified medical prescription was implemented as a policy to decrease the overall health expenditures and increase the use of generic drugs. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the perception of Lebanese physicians towards the unified medical Prescription and its impact on the overall generic prescription. Additionally, an overview was assessed concerning the type of drugs that physicians tend more to accept to be substituted to generic alternatives.

METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Lebanon over a period of three months targeting physicians in their private clinics or in various hospitals using a survey as an instrument.

RESULTS: Our findings demonstrated that more than the half of respondents (56.6%) believed that the unified medical prescription preserves the exclusivity for physicians to choose the medication while only 39.5% of physicians think that the unified medical prescription encouraged generic prescription and almost 42% admitted that the unified medical prescription lowers the medical cost for the patient.

DISCUSSION: Despite that this new medical form of prescription is a high achievement for the Lebanese Ministry Of Public Health, this last should make essential actions: coordinating the generic drug substitution policy and monitoring its implementation over time and achievement of goals; establishing appropriate pricing system and medicines prices and controlling the interactions between physicians, pharmacists, and pharmaceutical industries; ensure their full commitment; and update the national list of substitutable generic drugs.

CONCLUSION: The main objective of the unified medical prescription is to decrease the pharmaceutical expenditure and to provide access to medications for patients with lower socio-economic status. Lebanese physicians reported that this tool did not achieve its goal yet but have an impact on lowering the medical cost for patients and promoting generic prescription.
Caught Between Appeasement and Limited Hard Balancing: The Philippines’ Changing Relations With the Eagle and the Dragon
Authors: De Castro Renato Cruz
Published: February 2022

After five years of pursuing a policy of appeasement towards China, the Philippines is incrementally and reluctantly shifting to “limited hard balancing.” The goal is to constrain China's revisionist agenda in the South China Sea. This strategy entails building up the Philippine military's territorial defence capabilities, maintaining its alliance with the U.S., and forging security partnerships with other middle power like South Korean, Japan, and Australia. During his six-year term, the late President Benigno Aquino III stood up to China's expansive claim in the South China Sea. When Rodrigo Roa Duterte assumed the presidency in June 2016, he unravelled his predecessor's balancing policy towards China. Nonetheless, recent developments such as the People's Liberation Army Navy's hostile moves against the Armed Forces of the Philippines units on Philippine-occupied islands in the South China Sea and the delays in the promised Chinese public investments in the country prompted the Duterte Administration to review the appeasement approach and to mull over on a limited hard balancing policy. In conclusion, this article contends that the Duterte Administration is at the crossroads, figuring out if it will continue its appeasement stance or adopt a limited hard balancing policy towards China.
Co-designing a digital companion with people living with Parkinson's to support self-care in a personalized way: The eCARE-PD Study
Authors: Grosjean Sylvie , Ciocca Jean-Luc , Gauthier-Beaupré Amélie , Poitras Emely , Grimes David , Mestre Tiago
Published: February 2022

eHealth technologies play a role in the development of integrated care models for people living with Parkinson disease by improving communication with their health care teams and support self-care practices in a personalized way. This article presents a co-design approach to designing an eHealth technology, the eCARE-PD platform, that addresses the needs and expectations of people living with Parkinson disease, generates tailored care tips, and recommends actions for managing care priorities at home. We use a co-design approach involving four main iterative phases: (1) preparation, (2) mapping, (3) testing and using, and (4) co-producing solutions and requirements. This approach uses several methods to engage people directly to design this technology. The study allowed us to identify design principles to be integrated in the development of the eCARE-PD platform. These principles incorporate the expectations of future users, which were expressed during the iterative phases of the co-design process: (a) six key design features based on users’ needs and expectations, (b) six main issues users raised during a test at home and key features for improving the design of the eCARE-PD platform, and (c) collective solutions to design an interactive, meaningful, tailored, empathic, and socially acceptable technology. The results of the successive phases of the co-design process allow us to underline the progressive constitution of a technology defined over successive iterations as a digital companion supporting the self-care process at home and having the capacity to generate tailored digital health communication.
COVID in Context: The Lived Experience of Richmond’s Low-Income Older Adults
Authors: Winship Jodi M. , Gendron Tracey , Waters Leland , Chung Jane , Battle Kimberly , Cisewski Melissa , Gregory Melody , Sargent Lana , Zanjani Faika , Slattum Patrica , Mackiewicz Marissa , Diallo Ana , Ford Gregory , Falls Katherine , Price Elvin T. , Parsons Pamela L. ,   VCU iCubed Health and Wellness in Aging Transdisciplinary Core
Published: February 2022

Taking a phenomenological approach, this qualitative study describes the lived experiences of low-income older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. A socio-ecological model was used to organize the five identified themes describing the lived experience: socio-economic context, Black Lives Matter and the politics of race, COVID and polarized views of COVID, interpersonal context (social connections), and individual context (feelings, beliefs, and behaviors). Study findings illustrate the intersectionality of contextual influences on the experience of low-income older adults. Study participants demonstrated remarkable resilience and coping strategies developed in response to the challenges they experienced throughout their lifetime which benefited them when faced with the pandemic, social unrest, and political events that took place in 2020. This study highlights the importance of understanding the larger context of COVID-19 which has significant implications for policy makers and public health leaders.