bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
United States
Authors: Telesetsky Anastasia
Published: June 2023

This short State Practice piece describes ongoing efforts to prepare a United States’ Ocean Action Climate Plan that will balance both “blue economy” development priorities (energy and shipping) and conservation and restoration priorities.
Education In The Scottish Parliament
Authors: Redford Morag
Published: June 2023

This paper follows on from the previous bulletin (Redford 2022), which covered the education remit of the Parliament’s Education, Children and Young Peoples Committee between September 2021 and January 2022. The following bulletin covers the major pieces of work of the Education, Children and Young People Committee from February 2022 to January 2023.
Unpacking the Complexity of Gurān Identity
Authors: Gholami Saloumeh
Published: June 2023

This study aims to explore the complexity of the term Gurān and how its meaning has evolved over time. The research poses several research questions, including the historical and cultural context of the term, different perspectives on whether Gurān people should be considered a distinct ethnic group or part of the larger Kurdish population, and the role of the term in shaping social, cultural, and political dynamics among different social groups. Additionally, the study seeks to explore the perceptions and experiences of Gurān people regarding the use of the term and their understanding of their own identity. Through a methodical analysis of historical and cultural texts, interviews, as well as contemporary discussions in social media, this research demonstrates a method for studying complex topics such as the Gurān identity and provides insight into the complexities of endonyms and exonyms and their relation to broader issues of identity and conflict.
Two new species of Paraneseuthia Franz from Okinawa-jima (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: June 2023

Only one (recently discovered) nominal species of the eutheiine genus Paraneseuthia Franz is known to occur on the largest Ryukyuan Island of Okinawa-jima, while five other members of this rare genus inhabit Ishigaki-jima, Shikoku, Kyushu and Honshu. Undescribed species known from females only have been collected also on southwestern Iriomote-jima and northeastern Hokkaido. Two new Okinawan species are described: P. uminzo sp. n. and P. umisatu sp. n., suggesting that the diversity of Paraneseuthia in the Ryukyus is still known fragmentarily and new discoveries can be expected in other forested southern islands.
Regression-Based Ensemble Perturbations for the Zero-Gradient Issue Posed in Lightning-Flash Data Assimilation with an Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Honda Takumi , Sato Yousuke , Miyoshi Takemasa
Published: June 2023

Lightning flash observations are closely associated with the development of convective clouds and have a potential for convective-scale data assimilation with high-resolution numerical weather prediction models. A main challenge with the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is that no ensemble members have nonzero lightning flashes in the places where a lightning flash is observed. In this situation, different model states provide all zero lightning, and the EnKF cannot assimilate the nonzero lightning data effectively. This problem is known as the zero-gradient issue. This study addresses the zero-gradient issue by adding regression-based ensemble perturbations derived from a statistical relationship between simulated lightning and atmospheric variables in the whole computational domain. Regression-based ensemble perturbations are applied if the number of ensemble members with nonzero lightning flashes is smaller than a prescribed threshold (Nmin). Observing system simulation experiments for a heavy precipitation event in Japan show that regression-based ensemble perturbations increase the ensemble spread and successfully induce the analysis increments associated with convection even if only a few members have nonzero lightning flashes. Furthermore, applying regression-based ensemble perturbations improves the forecast accuracy of precipitation although the improvement is sensitive to the choice of Nmin.

Significance Statement

This study develops an effective method to use lightning flash observations for weather prediction. Lightning flash observations include precious information of the inner structure of clouds, but their effective use for weather prediction is not straightforward since a weather prediction model often misses observed lightning flashes. Our new method uses ensemble-generated statistical relationships to compensate for the misses and successfully improves the forecast accuracy of heavy rains in a simulated case. Our future work will test the method with real observation data.
Logical Incrementalism as a Path to Strategic Agility: The Caseof NASA
Authors: Heracleous Loizos , Wawarta Christina , Papachroni Angeliki , Paroutis Sotirios
Published: June 2023

This article explores the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA’s) journey to strategic agility through successively shifting to three different strategic alignments over the last six decades and suggests that logical incrementalism may be an unappreciated driver of this process. Three successive alignment models exhibit important shifts in technology strategy, competencies, and values of the organization. The three phases of incremental changes in shifting from one alignment model to the next are the emergence of new approaches, the embeddedness of these approaches in particular contexts, and their expansion to other organizational contexts.
A Meta-Analysis: The Association Between Relational Parental Involvement and Student and Parent Outcome Variables
Authors: Jeynes William H.
Published: June 2023

This paper shares the results of a meta-analysis on the parental-relational component of parental-involvement and its association with the academic and behavioral outcomes of urban students. This meta-analysis includes 76 quantitative studies. The results indicated that statistically significant effects emerged across students of different backgrounds, including differences by age groups, race, gender, and nationality. The results were also substantial in the highest quality studies. The significance of these results is discussed.
Impact of Trade Liberalisation on Wage Inequality and Skill Formation: A Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Dutta Priya Brata , Saha Niladri
Published: June 2023

We consider a small open economy with three sector and four factors. Agricultural sector produces output with unskilled labour and land. Manufacturing sector and skill formation sector produce output with skilled labour and capital. Skill formation sector transforms the unskilled labour into skilled labour. We also consider an extended version of this model where agricultural sector also uses capital. So capital is mobile between all three sectors. Both change in the price of manufacturing sector and capital stock alter skill formation in a similar direction. But change in the price of manufacturing sector leads to change in skilled–unskilled wage inequality in the same direction whereas due to change in capital stock it changes in opposite direction. In our extended study, where capital is mobile between all three sectors, the results of the basic model are unaltered.

JEL Codes: F13, J31
Production and an advanced model for electrical conductivity of silicone rubber/carbon nanotube nanocomposites as outdoor insulator housing material
Authors: Mohammadnabi Saman , Rahmani Khosrow
Published: June 2023

Considerable cause of the condensation mechanism of moisture and fog on the contaminated high-voltage insulator surface is the temperature difference between the insulator surface and the dew point which eventuate owing to the mechanism of radiative cooling. Condensation of moisture leads to creating a conducting path on the insulator surface and make the insulator to be a conductor and results in the electrical transmission line failure. In order to cover the above-mentioned temperature difference, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are being applied to the silicone rubber which is the insulator housing material. This study is based on joule heating generation which decrease the electrical resistance of the high-voltage insulator surface. An advanced mathematical model which is based on Pukanszky formulation for estimation of composite tensile strength was presented for the effectual electrical conduction of silicone rubber - carbon nanotube nanocomposite (SCNT). SCNT samples were produced by the addition of dissimilar CNT concentrations to a high temperature vulcanizing (HTV) silicone rubber by solution-blending method. Comparison between experimental results and theoretical forecasts showed an excellent agreement. The obtained model disclosed that the lower ranks of tunneling resistivity and distance, the higher magnitudes of tunneling diameter, the higher concentration of longer and thinner CNTs, lower CNT curliness, higher fraction of networked CNTs, and deeper interphase can produce the maximum level of SCNT conductivity.
The Relationships Between Internal Program Measures and a High-Stakes Teacher Licensing Measure in Mathematics Teacher Preparation: Program Design Considerations
Authors: Zelkowski Jeremy , Campbell Tye , Moldavan Alesia
Published: June 2023

Accountability measures have quickly entered into formal teacher-preparation programs. As a response, we introduce the use of structural equation modeling vis-à-vis path analysis in secondary-grade mathematics teacher preparation as a methodology to test models to understand the strength of relationships to recommendations of prominent professional organizations and standards for entering the teaching profession. This longitudinal, 6-year, five-cohort study examines the relationship of program design sequencing and core components (internal measures) to an externally scored high-stakes teacher licensing examination portfolio intended to measure pedagogical content knowledge and first-year teacher readiness. The internal measures and program sequencing model explains 49.2% of the variance in relation to the standardized outcome teaching portfolio examination with high-power and medium- to large-effect statistics. We provide implications for teacher preparation with respect to recommendations of professional organizations, governments, and accreditation standards. Results should stimulate discussions and fuel future research efforts.
End-of-Life Discussions From the Perspective of Social Care and Healthcare Professionals in Palliative Care
Authors: Kuusisto Anne , Saranto Kaija , Korhonen Päivi , Haavisto Elina
Published: June 2023

This study describes the state of end-of-life discussions in Finland. A qualitative descriptive study with thematic interviews was conducted. Data were gathered from palliative care unit nurses, physicians and social workers. Inductive content analysis was used. According to interviewees ( n = 33), the state of end-of-life discussion included three main categories. First, optimal end-of-life discussion time included early end-of-life discussion, end-of-life discussion at different phases of severe illness, and flexibility and challenges in scheduling end-of-life discussion. Second, end-of-life discussion initiators included both healthcare professionals and non-healthcare professionals. Third, social care and healthcare professionals’ experiences of end-of-life discussion consisted of the importance and challenge of end-of-life discussion, end-of-life communication skills development in multiprofessional care context, and end-of-life communication in multi-cultural care context. The results can be used to justify the need of a national strategy and systematic implementation on Advance Care Planning (ACP), considering the multiprofessional, multicultural and internationalizing operating environment.
Why Parties Gain Votes When the Public Perceives Them Shifting to the Right
Authors: Adams James , Bernardi Luca , Ezrow Lawrence , Somer-Topcu Zeynep
Published: June 2023

We combine two dominant approaches to studying how issues influence elections: one that emphasizes parties’ issue positions, and the other parties’ issue ownership. Research from the latter approach shows that voters ascribe greater economic competence to right-wing parties. Based on this finding, we argue that parties enhance their economic issue ownership when voters perceive them shifting to the right. In the following step, we show that perceived rightward shifts of parties also lead to subsequent increases in electoral support. We analyze economic ownership survey data and election outcomes in 15 democracies over the period 1986–2015 that supports the expectations that parties’ perceived rightward shifts result in increases in economic ownership and subsequent vote shares. We also show that the right-shift vote gains are strongest during recessions when voters prioritize parties’ economic competence.
Study on the preparation of zirconium hydroxide textile and its absorption and detoxification of chemical warfare agents
Authors: Tian Liang , Wang Lianyuan , Zhu Yuefeng , Zhu Haiyan , Liang Jing , Wu Shaoxiong , Ge Liang , Miao Ting , Tian Xingtao , Cheng Zhenxing
Published: June 2023

Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) still threaten society and have been used in recent terrorist attacks. Various adsorbents have been developed to remove CWA droplets effectively from contaminated objects to protect against serious injury. In this project, a collection of textiles, zirconium hydroxide (ZH) combined with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polyacrylonitrile (PAN), were prepared using electro-spinning. Results of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy indicated that ZH was uniformly distributed and attached in the interstices of the polymer fiber with a high Zr load ratio of >24%. The wetting and absorption of ZH textiles to simulation agents such as 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide and dimethyl methylphosphate showed good performance in terms of absorption. The calculation results, where the absorption factor ka of each textile was a constant value, suggested they had excellent capacity of removing CWA droplets, such as bis(2-chloroethyl) sulfide (HD), S-2-(diisopropylamino) ethyl O-ethyl methylphosphonothioate (VX) and pinacolyl methylphosphonofluoridate (GD). The detoxification experiment showed that both textiles of ZH@PAN and PAN had optimum degradation of HD with half-lives of 84.5 min due to its fast natural hydrolysis of HD and good adsorption of HD on textile. For degradation of VX solution, ZH@PVA-PEG presented a strong degradation capability with an almost equal half-life of 64.5 min to ZH. ZH@PVA-PEG could also catalyze GD hydrolysis effectively with a half-life of 55.0 min. This work manifested the possibility for quick absorption of CWAs from contaminated objects with non-powder materials and a strong degradation ability.
Teach Like a Black Woman: A Trauma-Informed Black Feminist Praxis
Authors: Farinde-Wu Abiola , Alvarez Adam , Kunimoto Nina
Published: June 2023

When considering the traumatic, racialized educational landscape of the U.S., we turn our attention to the revolutionary consciousness that Black feminism provides in our conceptualization of trauma, suffering, and healing. Ultimately, we maintain that Black women educators (BWEs) enacting Black feminist pedagogies in their classrooms are uniquely positioned to advance our collective discourses, practices, and research on trauma and healing. Utilizing qualitative inquiry, we examine interviews from BWEs through the lenses of Black feminism and our holistic trauma framework. Findings reveal BWEs’ tools—love lessons and proactive, interactive, and reactive healing pedagogies. We conclude with recommendations for urban teacher education programs.
CHINESE STRATEGY IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA
Authors: Quyet Nguyen Huu
Published: June 2023

The past decade has seen a notable increase in tensions in the South China Sea. Superficially the new situation has been triggered by Chinese territorial claims centering around the “Nine Dash Line.” While there is a large body of literature digging out China's strategic interests behind its increasing assertiveness in the contested waters, it falls short of an overall investigation of Beijing's maritime grand strategy—in which the South China Sea occupies a critical position. The aim of this article is therefore to examine the geostrategic, geopolitical, and geoeconomic significance of the South China Sea which comes to the fore in China's grand strategy. It argues that these sea waters are critical in Beijing's plans to establish and protect its status as a global maritime power in light of the sea energy reservoir, fisheries, and other vital maritime economic interests to reinforce its economic powerhouse. Beijing's power projection and its increasing assertiveness in the contested waters have also served in the pursuit of controlling vital sea lanes of communication in the Indian Ocean. Significantly, the South China Sea preoccupies Beijing's leadership's strategic pursuit of being a global sea power as a balancing act vis‐a‐vis the United States in the Indo‐Pacific region and intensifying the blockade of Taiwan.
Drivers of Probation Revocation in Pulaski County, Arkansas
Authors: Gu Mofan , Stone Rebecca , Varghese Femina , Braziel Heath , Snyder Logan , Zaller Nickolas
Published: June 2023

Probation has received relatively little research attention. In this exploratory two-study inquiry, we first analyzed quantitative data to identify factors driving probation revocation in Pulaski County, Arkansas, among 10,260 individuals (mostly male and African American) between 2015 and 2019 (Study 1). We found individuals with felony histories were significantly more likely to be revoked (aOR 17.2 for one or two convictions; aOR 25.1 for three or more convictions). Other predictors include lower education, younger age at first sentence, unemployment, and substance use. In Study 2, we conducted 20 in-depth qualitative interviews with 12 key stakeholders and 8 individuals with probation experience. We found that client financial instability, substance use and mental health disorders, stakeholder risk avoidance, officer caseload, and lack of accessible resources/services contributed to probation revocation. We conclude with recommendations for changes to probation policy and practice, including officer training, alternatives to incarceration, service expansion, and community engagement.
Smartpens for Students With Disabilities in Inclusive Content-Area Classes
Authors: Boyle Joseph R. , Watson Latesha , Robinson Hannah E.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this article is to describe how to teach students to use smartpens to record notes in their classes. Notetaking is a complex cognitive process that requires students to listen, process, organize, and record notes, while dealing with the temporal demands of trying to record notes fast enough to keep up with the teacher. Fortunately for students with disabilities, smartpens can help them compensate for slow writing and processing speed by allowing them to record partial notes and then easily amend them after the lecture.
Practitioner–researchers’ views of disability education project for children with severe multiple disabilities: A first-person group study using collaborative autoethnography
Authors: Yamada Miho , Nakanishi Yutaka , Okada Shingo , Akutsu Taichi
Published: June 2023

Children with severe multiple disabilities face numerous possibilities for enjoying music and participating in performance activities; however, the research practice for realizing these possibilities involves various difficulties. To understand the disabilities of children and their engagement with music, awareness of one’s perception of disability is necessary for each practitioner–researcher. The researchers of the current study reflected on their personal views about disability and life histories and described and analyzed them through collaborative autoethnography (CAE). The study was conducted through the practice of combining electronic music equipment and traditional instruments as a music education project for children with severe multiple disabilities. The results demonstrated that the perceptions of the researchers about disability and their life histories interacted with and transformed their research practice. Additionally, the study highlighted how endeavors in CAE encouraged dialogue among researchers and deepened mutual understanding. The suggestions for researchers of music education practice with children with disabilities include analysis of disability from the first-person perspective and sharing of views among co-researchers.
The influence of different sub-bandage pressure values in the prevention of recurrence of venous ulceration—A ten year follow-up
Authors: Milic Dragan J , Zivic Sasa S , Bogdanovic Dragan C , Lazarevic Milan V , Ademi Bekim N , Milic Isidora D
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to establish the efficacy of three different strengths of compression systems in the prevention of venous leg ulcer (VLU) recurrences during a 10-year follow up period.

Methods

An open, prospective, randomized, single-center study included 477 patients (240 men, 237 women; mean age 59 years). Patients were randomized into three groups: Group A) 149 patients (allocated to wear elastic stocking 18–25 mmHg). Group B) 167 patients (wearing compression device exerting 25–35 mmHg), and Group C) 161 patients (treated with multilayer compression system exerting 35–50 mmHg).

Results

Overall, 65% (234/360) of patients had recurrent VLU within 10 years. Recurrence occurred in 120 (96%) of 125 in group A, in 89 (66.9%) of 133 patients in group B and in 25 (24.5%) of 102 patients in group C ( p < 0.05)

Conclusion

Compression systems with the higher compression class provide lower recurrence rate.
Non-classical monocytes promote neurovascular repair in cerebral small vessel disease associated with microinfarctions via CX3CR1
Authors: Lecordier Sarah , Menet Romain , Allain Anne-Sophie , ElAli Ayman
Published: June 2023

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) constitutes a major risk factor for dementia. Monocytes play important roles in cerebrovascular disorders. Herein, we aimed to investigate the contribution of non-classical C-X3-C motif chemokine receptor (CX3CR)1 monocytes to cSVD pathobiology and therapy. To this end, we generated chimeric mice in which CX3CR1 in non-classical monocytes was either functional (CX3CR1GFP/+) or dysfunctional (CX3CR1GFP/GFP). cSVD was induced in mice via the micro-occlusion of cerebral arterioles, and novel immunomodulatory approaches targeting CX3CR1 monocyte production were used. Our findings demonstrate that CX3CR1GFP/+ monocytes transiently infiltrated the ipsilateral hippocampus and were recruited to the microinfarcts 7 days after cSVD, inversely associated with neuronal degeneration and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption. Dysfunctional CX3CR1GFP/GFP monocytes failed to infiltrate the injured hippocampus and were associated with exacerbated microinfarctions and accelerated cognitive decline, accompanied with an impaired microvascular structure. Pharmacological stimulation of CX3CR1GFP/+ monocyte generation attenuated neuronal loss and improved cognitive functions by promoting microvascular function and preserving cerebral blood flow (CBF). These changes were associated with elevated levels of pro-angiogenic factors and matrix stabilizers in the blood circulation. The results indicate that non-classical CX3CR1 monocytes promote neurovascular repair after cSVD and constitute a promising target for the development of new therapies.
Activation of the mTOR pathway promotes neurite growth through upregulation of CD44 expression
Authors: Zhang Jiwei , Gan Wenjuan , Peng Ru , Lu Lei , Lu Weiqing , Liu Jiamei
Published: June 2023

Objective

To explore the intrinsic mechanism of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway activation and promotion of neuronal axon growth.

Methods

Human neuroblastoma cells, SH-SY5Y, were induced with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA; 10 μM for three days) which differentiated the cell line into a neuronal-like state. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the differentiation status of the neuronal-like cells. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) RNA interference (RNAi) experiments were performed on the differentiated cells; reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) detected transcriptional levels of PTEN following 24 h of interference. After 36 h, western blot assay was used to detect expression levels of ribosomal protein S6 kinase (pS6k) and mTOR. To downregulate the expression of PTEN and cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44), a cell-surface glycoprotein, simultaneously, PTEN siRNA and CD44 siRNA sequences were mixed in equal proportions in co-interference experiments. RT-PCR detected the transcription level of CD44, and the relationship between the CD44 and axonal growth was observed after 48 h of interference.

Results

Microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) expression was enhanced after three days of induction in SH-SY5Y cells. RT-PCR showed the transcription level of PTEN was significantly downregulated after 24 h of PTEN knockdown. mTOR and pS6k protein expression levels were significantly upregulated after 36 h of interference. CD44 transcription levels were upregulated after PTEN gene interference. The neurite length of the cells in the experimental interference group was significantly longer than that in the control group, and the expression level of CD44 was positively correlated with neurite growth. The neurite length of the PTEN-only interference group was significantly greater than that of the co-interference and ATRA groups.

Conclusion

Activation of the mTOR pathway promoted neurite growth through upregulation of CD44 expression, thus promoting neuronal regeneration.
Competition and coordination in state intrapreneurialism: The case of South Korea's export of urban expertise
Authors: Miao Julie T , Kim Hyung Min , Phelps Nicholas A
Published: June 2023

State entrepreneurialism in response to external market stimuli has a state intrapreneurialism counterpart – the entrepreneurialism found within public institutions. In moving beyond the case of Singapore from which the idea was proposed, this paper develops the concept of state intrapreneurialism by injecting a greater sense of the political and territorial heterogeneity of, and competition within, national states that fracture the identification of needs, the crafting of policy narratives, and the forging of domestic and international networks. With reference to the case of South Korea, this paper illustrates how state intrapreneurialism has generated domestic and international markets and reputation in the ICT-assisted city management domain despite elements of competition among public agencies. The case raises broader questions for future research on the relational geographies of politics and bureaucracy in stimulating or stifling state intrapreneurialism.
Noise Performance of Chip Seal Pavements
Authors: Donavan Paul R. , Janello Carrie J.
Published: June 2023

Increasing numbers of local and state highway agencies are using chip seals for highway pavement maintenance owing to their relatively low cost and simplicity of application. These surfaces can significantly increase both exterior traffic noise levels and interior noise for vehicle occupants. Recent studies included as part of the NCHRP 15-68 Effect Low Noise Rumble Strips Project have quantified these effects using pass-by and interior noise and on-board sound intensity (OBSI) measurements in several states. To minimize the tire–pavement noise generated by chip seals, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has conducted research on different chip seal pavement designs near the City of Bishop, California. Previous measurements of chip seal pavement have indicated an average OBSI level of 106.2 dBA with a range of ±2 dB. The five quietest test sections at Bishop produced an average level of 101.8 dB with a range of ±0.6 dB. In this paper, previous pass-by and interior noise and OBSI measurements are provided along with the comparison of OBSI data to that measured at the Bishop sites. The performance and design information on the Bishop sites are also provided.
Business Case for Transit Bus Automated Collision Avoidance Systems
Authors: Yin Shuyi , Fischer Luke , Wang Yinhai , Lutin Jerome M.
Published: June 2023

Although the National Transportation Safety Board has strongly recommended the application of collision avoidance warning systems and automated emergency braking (CAWS/AEB), the transit industry has lagged behind autos and trucks. CAWS/AEB for buses is more complex than for cars and trucks and represents a niche market. If bus manufacturers and suppliers are to invest in developing this technology, they will need to be convinced there is a market for it. Transit agencies also will need to be convinced that the technology works and is affordable. For both vendors and purchasers, a business case could be made that some or all of the expense of procuring and deploying the technology can be recovered through savings from reduced insurance premiums and claims payouts by preventing or mitigating collisions. This paper describes two methods for estimating the business case for equipping transit buses with CAWS/AEB. First, industrywide data on the numbers of collisions and casualty and liability expenses incurred by transit agencies were examined, and statistical relationships were modeled to determine whether reducing the numbers of collisions would reduce casualty and liability expenses. Second, individual collision claims records for specific transit agencies were examined to determine whether the collisions could have been prevented by CAWS/AEB, and the potential savings.
Using Twitter to Gauge Customer Satisfaction Response to a Major Transit Service Change in Calgary, Canada
Authors: Al-Sahar Rami , Klumpenhouwer Willem , Shalaby Amer , El-Diraby Tamer
Published: June 2023

Measuring public opinion about the quality of transit services is a key factor in understanding and addressing customer dissatisfaction and increasing customer loyalty and ridership. Sentiment analysis using social media—in particular Twitter—is a relatively cheap and potentially powerful complement to traditional survey methods, which are expensive and limited in sample size. This study aims to evaluate customer response to the introduction of Calgary Transit’s MAX routes. We compared customer satisfaction expressed on Twitter with measured service reliability in the form of on-time performance. We also employed a qualitative research approach using content analysis from Twitter to gauge rider satisfaction over several service attributes before and after the service change. A transit-specific sentiment lexicon was developed to support this study using a hybrid approach. This lexicon outperformed generic sentiment lexicons traditionally used in transit studies with regard to both accuracy (18.4%) and F1-score (7.1%). We found that the overall perception of on-time performance from riders using Twitter was similar to the actual performance in the field. This was also observed for one individual route on which stops with poor schedule adherence were linked with negative feedback. This study concludes that combining customer-oriented measures from Twitter with operational-oriented ones would enable transit agencies to make better-informed decisions for planning and operational purposes.
Clinical and pathological predictors of persistent T1 HG at second resection
Authors: Gobbo Andrea , Fasulo Vittorio , Contieri Roberto , Uleri Alessandro , Avolio Pier Paolo , Frego Nicola , Lughezzani Giovanni , Saitta Cesare , Taverna Gianluigi , Zanoni Matteo , Mancon Stefano , Colombo Piergiuseppe , Valeri Marina , Saita Alberto , Lazzeri Massimo , Buffi Nicolò M , Hurle Rodolfo , Casale Paolo
Published: June 2023

Background:

T1 high-grade (HG) non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) has a significant risk of recurrence and progression, and the European Association of Urology recommends a second transurethral resection of the bladder (ReTUR). Stage at ReTUR has been shown to be a reliable predictor of survival, therefore, we sought to assess clinical and pathological predictors associated with the persistence of T1 at ReTUR in our retrospective multicentric cohort.

Methods:

This is a retrospective multicentric study of T1 HG patients at transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) who underwent subsequent ReTUR. All histological samples were sub-classified according to Rete Oncologica Lombarda (ROL) T1 sub-staging system.

Results:

One hundred and sixty-six patients were enrolled. Forty-four (26.5%) had T1 HG tumor at ReTUR while 93 (56%) had residual tumor of any stage. Lesion size was significantly greater in T1 HG patients at ReTUR, as well as the prevalence of multifocality. The multivariable logistic regression model showed lesion dimension and multifocality as predictors of T1 HG at ReTUR, after adjusting for significant covariables (CIS and detrusor muscle presence). ROL sub-staging system was not a significant predictor, but ROL2 prevalence was higher in the T1 HG at ReTUR group.

Conclusions:

Lesion size and multifocality were independent predictors of T1 HG persistence at ReTUR, and patients at risk should be promptly identified and treated accordingly. Our results could help physicians make patient-tailored decisions by identifying those most likely to benefit from a second resection.
Speed of Cognitive Processing Within a Test of Executive Functions and Information Integration
Authors: Das J.P. , Samantaray Swagatika
Published: June 2023

Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN) has been widely recognized as a reliable predictor of reading proficiency. Although RAN represents the speed of cognitive processing, there are few studies that have addressed RAN as a cognitive process in its own right Furthermore, RAN performance of ELL (English Language Learners) has been less frequently investigated. We have two parts to this study. First, we examine the factor structure of an enlarged composite measure of speed measure by adding four additional tests comprising color naming, and two number naming tasks to the traditional RAN of digit and letter naming. In the second part, we determine the association of Speed with broad cognitive processes comprising Executive Functions, and Information processing. Participants were students in English medium schools in India. They were divided into two age groups (8–14 and 15–20) for statistical analyses of six Speed measures Results show a strong unitary speed factor in the 8 to 14 age group. In contrast, in the 15 to 20 group RAN tests comprising digits and letters showed a very small loading on the same factor. Addressing the second objective, which is the impact of speed on various cognitive tasks, the results show that response speed has a minimal influence on Nonverbal Configurations (simultaneous) tasks, and tasks of executive functions comprising Working Memory, and Visual-Spatial Processing. These tests will enable us to isolate specific cognitive deficiencies from response speed. In a re-examination of the relation between Reading & RAN-type tests, we could suggest that serial articulation is the common and essential feature that binds rapid naming tasks and reading fluency.
Predicting the Thermal Protective Performance of Smart Fabric Systems With a Shape Memory Layer Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Pan Mengjiao , Wang Lijun , Lu Xinyi , Xu Jingxian , Lu Yehu , He Jiazhen
Published: June 2023

The utilization of shape memory alloy (SMA) in shape memory fabric (SMF) has revolutionized thermal protective clothing, significantly enhancing its thermal protection. However, the cost- and time-consuming process of SMA shape memory training and performance testing can be optimized for improved efficiency. This study addresses this challenge by developing machine learning models to predict the thermal protection of a smart fabric system (SFS) with a SMF. The training data was sourced from the previous experimental studies, and six features significantly impacting thermal protection were identified. Results demonstrated that gradient boosting regressor (GBR) model exhibited the highest accuracy, with the SMA interval emerging as the most critical feature in determining thermal protection. Moreover, the GBR model predicted that SFS presented the best thermal protection when the dry SMF was woven by SMA of 2 cm interval and aramid 1414 of 20 roots/cm density, located between the moisture barrier and thermal liner vertically.
Imperfect Tools: A Research Note on Developing, Applying, and Increasing Understanding of Criminal Justice Risk Assessments
Authors: Applegarth D. Michael , Lewis Raven A. , Rief Rachael M.
Published: June 2023

This article shares considerations for designing, implementing, and understanding risk assessments used to reduce recidivism of people under community supervision. These insights are gleaned from 27 data scientists who participated in focus groups during the National Institute of Justice’s Recidivism Challenge Winners Symposium. Analyses revealed three primary themes: design considerations, implementation, and increasing awareness and understanding of risk assessments. Critical aspects of the design phase include validating the tool, incorporating field data that account for real-time changes, and adopting strategies to address false positives/negatives and the model’s complexity. Upon the tool’s development, practitioners are recommended to devise an implementation plan, balance attention to risk with client-focused needs, and exercise modest discretion while considering algorithmic results. Recognizing the value predictive instruments bring to decision-making and identifying their limitations is needed to increase understanding for all stakeholders. Collaboration and dialogue between tool developers and practitioners are crucial at every stage.
And Mama Studied with Me: Elementary Education, Modernization, Gendered Curricula, and the Reconfiguration of the Public and Private in the Danubian Principalities and Greek Lands, 1810s-1840s
Authors: Tipei Alex R.
Published: June 2023

This article argues that discussions about and plans for female education emerged in early nineteenth-century southeastern Europe in connection with broader programs of modernization. It suggests that when officials and educators in the early Greek state and Danubian Principalities created curricula for women, they seldom took regional realities or the needs of potential pupils into account. Rather, the courses of study they proposed more closely reflected the aspirations these regional elites had for their communities. The article explores how education helped (re)inscribe gender roles within modern institutions and allowed state officials and educators to formalize boundaries between the public and private spheres. Modernization, primary instruction, and gendered hierarchies were intimately related.
Exploration of the mechanism and prediction of jet pump feature structure optimization for the enhanced pumping performance
Authors: Sun Wanting , Li Min , Fan Yuewei , Zhu Bo
Published: June 2023

It is widely concerned that the non-ideal design of characteristic parameters of throat pipe of jet pump leads to the low pumping efficiency. The paper studies the pumping efficiency of jet pump under different characteristic parameters through numerical calculation to determine the influences of single parameter on pumping efficiency. And the coupling influences of parameters are predicted through XGBoost technology. The research shows that the coupling relation between the pumping efficiency of jet pump and multiple characteristic parameters can be predicted with the accuracy of 98.83%. The reasonable choice of characteristic parameters can improve pumping efficiency by 23.6%. The research will help designers to look for the best coupling of jet pump parameters accurately through numerical calculation and machine learning technologies.
The Role of Views of Nature in Dutch Nature Conservation: The Case of the Creation of a Drift Sand Area in the Hoge Veluwe National Park
Authors: Turnhout Esther , Hisschemöller Matthijs , Eijsackers Herman
Published: June 2023

Nature conservation requires choices about what sort of nature should be protected in what areas and includes value judgments on what nature is and/or should be. This paper studies the role of differing views of nature in nature conservation. A case study on the creation of a drift sand area in the Netherlands illustrates how nature conservation disputes can be understood as a conflict in views of nature.
Shifting Forest Value Orientations in the United States, 1980–2001: A Computer Content Analysis
Authors: Bengston David N. , Webb Trevor J. , Fan David P.
Published: June 2023

This paper examines three forest value orientations – clusters of interrelated values and basic beliefs about forests – that emerged from an analysis of the public discourse about forest planning, management, and policy in the United States. The value orientations include anthropocentric, biocentric, and moral/spiritual/aesthetic orientations toward forests. Computer coded content analysis was used to identify shifts in the relative importance of these value orientations over the period 1980 through 2001. The share of expressions of anthropocentric forest value orientations declined over this period, while the share of biocentric value expressions increased. Moral/spiritual/aesthetic value expressions remained constant over time. The observed shifts in forest value orientations have implications for identifying appropriate goals for public forest management and policy, developing socially acceptable means for accomplishing those goals, and dealing with inevitable conflict over forest management.
Comparison of simultaneous versus staged bilateral total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach: A propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Okazaki Tomoya , Imagama Takashi , Tanaka Hiroshi , Shiigi Eiichi , Hirata Kenji , Kaneoka Takehiro , Kawakami Takehiro , Sakai Takashi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

It remains unclear whether simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (SimBTHA) or staged bilateral total hip arthroplasty (StaBTHA) is clinically superior. No study has compared these two procedures matching surgical approach and patient background. This study aimed to clarify the differences between SimBTHA using direct anterior approach (SimBTHA-DAA) and StaBTHA using the direct anterior approach (StaBTHA-DAA).

Methods

Patients who underwent THA between 2012 and 2020 were enrolled, resulting in a total of 1658 hips of 1388 patients. After propensity score matching for patient background, 204 hips of 102 patients (51 patients in each group) were examined. Clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications, intraoperative blood loss and blood transfusions (BT) were evaluated. In complications, we evaluated periprosthetic fractures, pulmonary embolism, deep venous thrombosis, surgical site infection and dislocation.

Results

At the final follow-up, clinical and radiographic outcomes and complications were not significantly different between the groups. Intraoperative blood loss was equivalent for SimBTHA and the sum in the first- and second-stage StaBTHA. The total-BT rate was significantly higher for SimBTHA-DAA than for StaBTHA-DAA ( p < .0001). The allogeneic BT rate was significantly higher in SimBTHA-DAA in the supine position (32.3%) than in StaBTHA-DAA (8.3%) ( p = .007). However, no patient who received autologous BT required allogeneic BT.

Conclusions

Clinical and radiographic outcomes were equivalent between SimBTHA-DAA and StaBTHA-DAA. The allogeneic BT rate was significantly higher in SimBTHA-DAA than in StaBTHA-DAA. Autologous BT reduced the use of allogeneic BT in SimBTHA-DAA. Auto-BT may be useful for avoiding allo-BT in SimBTHA.
Choosing Systemic Agents for Psoriasis
Authors: Kontzias Christina , Chandy Rithi , Feldman Steven R.
Published: June 2023

Treatment options for moderate-to-severe psoriasis depend on drug efficacy and safety, patient preferences, comorbidities, and cost—no drug dominates across all dimensions. Interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitors may be preferred for fast-acting treatment, while the 3-month schedule of risankizumab, ustekinumab, or tildrakizumab may be attractive for patients who prioritize fewer injections. Phototherapy is suitable for patients who wish to avoid systemic agents or when cost is a concern. For patients with poor adherence, infliximab or tildrakizumab may be well suited as they require in-office administration. Dermatologists can educate patients on available therapies to find a regimen best suited to their needs.
Baseline Quality of Life is a Strong and Independent Prognostic Factor for Overall Survival in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: McGarrah Patrick , Hubbard Joleen , Novotny Paul J. , Branda Megan E. , Sargent Daniel S. , Morton Roscoe F. , Fuchs Charles S. , Benson Al B. , Williamson Stephen K. , Findlay Brian P. , Alberts Steven R. , Goldberg Richard M. , Sloan Jeff A.
Published: June 2023

Background

Previous studies have established that higher baseline quality of life (QOL) scores are associated with improved survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We examined the relationship between overall survival (OS) and baseline QOL.

Patients and Methods

A total of 1 247 patients with mCRC participating in N9741 (comparing bolus 5-FU/LV, irinotecan [IFL] vs infusional 5-FU/leucovorin [LV]/oxaliplatin [FOLFOX] vs. irinotecan/oxaliplatin [IROX]) provided data at baseline on overall QOL using a single-item linear analogue self-assessment (LASA) 0–100 point scale. The association of OS according to clinically deficient (defined as CD-QOL, score 0–50) vs not clinically deficient (nCD-QOL, score 51–100) baseline QOL scores was tested. A multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazards modeling was performed to adjust for the effects of multiple baseline factors. An exploratory analysis was performed evaluating OS according to baseline QOL status among patients who did or did not receive second-line therapy.

Results

Baseline QOL was a strong predictor of OS for the whole cohort (CD-QOL vs nCD-QOL: 11.2 months vs 18.4 months, P < .0001), and in each arm IFL 12.4 vs 15.1 months, FOLFOX 11.1 months vs 20.6 months, and IROX 8.9 months vs 18.1 months. Baseline QOL was associated with baseline performance status (PS) ( P < .0001). After adjusting for PS and treatment arm, baseline QOL was still associated with OS ( P = .017).

Conclusions

Baseline QOL is an independent prognostic factor for OS in patients with mCRC. The demonstration that patient-assessed QOL and PS are independent prognostic indicators suggests that these assessments provide important complementary prognostic information.
Association Between Thrombin–Antithrombin Complex and Acute Kidney Injury After Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery: A Single-Center Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Minami Sakura , Nagafuchi Hiroyuki , Yamada Kaori , Abe Takeru , Takeuchi Ichiro
Published: June 2023

Vascular endothelial damage may activate hypercoagulation and contribute to the development of acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aimed to investigate whether early alteration in coagulation was associated with AKI onset following surgeries involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in children. This single-center retrospective cohort study included 154 infants and toddlers who underwent cardiovascular surgery with CPB. At admission to the pediatric intensive care unit, the absolute thrombin–antithrombin complex (TAT) level in each patient was measured. Moreover, the presence or absence of AKI onset in the early postoperative period was observed. Of the total participants, 55 (35%) developed AKI. A comparison within the toddler group based on the TAT cut-off value showed that both univariate and multivariable associations were found between increased absolute TAT level and AKI onset (odds ratio, 4.70; 95% confidence interval [1.20-17.90]; P = .023). The increase in absolute TAT level in toddlers during the early postoperative period following CPB was associated with AKI onset. However, a further prospective multicenter study with a larger sample size is required for validating these findings.