bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latent territorial threat and democratic regime reversals
Authors: Karreth Johannes , Tir Jaroslav , Gibler Douglas M
Published: June 2021

Why do some democracies revert to non-democratic forms of governance? We develop an explanation of democratic reversals that emphasizes the influence of states’ external border relations on domestic politics. Latent threats to a state’s territory encourage political centralization of authority in the executive to defend against danger to the homeland. Latent territorial threat also facilitates the construction and maintenance of large land armies to fight threatening neighbors. Combined, latent territorial threat increases leaders’ domestic power, weakens democratic institutions, encourages other conditions threatening democratic survival, and, ultimately, leads to democratic reversals. Synthesizing prior research on territorial conflict, we generate a quantitative, continuous measure of latent territorial threat against all democracies with contiguous neighbors from 1946 to 2016, using Bayesian estimation. Empirical tests accounting for measurement uncertainty and other common determinants of reversals as well as brief reviews of individual cases of reversal provide robust evidence that democracy failed at higher rates in countries facing high levels of threats to their territory from neighbors. Our study implies that a complete account of the development of democratic institutions should emphasize that domestic factors alone fall short of explaining why democracies fail.
Federal Leadership Perspectives on the Early Years of Special Education
Authors: Karanxha Zorka , Kleinhammer-Tramill Jeannie , Broughton Alta Joy
Published: June 2021

This article is part of a case study of federal leadership in special education from the perspective of those who served in the roles of assistant secretaries of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services (OSERS) and directors of the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), or their equivalents in the former U.S. Office of Education and later U.S. Department of Education. The perspectives cover the time period since the passage of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975 to amendments of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1997 and the end of the Clinton administration in 2001. The participants detailed their (a) career and appointment, (b) vision for educating students with disabilities, (c) theory of change, (d) politics and financial constraints, (e) advocacy, and (f) views of the past, present, and future.
A Portuguese Adaptation of the Teruel Orthorexia Scale and a Test of Its Utility with Brazilian Young Adults
Authors: Roberto da Silva Wanderson , Cruz Marmol Carlos Hernani , Nogueira Neves Angela , Marôco João , Bonini Campos Juliana Alvares Duarte
Published: June 2021

The aims for this study were to perform a Portuguese language cross-cultural adaptation of the Teruel Orthorexia Scale (TOS) and to evaluate the scale’s psychometric properties, including verifying the frequency of behaviors characteristic of orthorexia nervosa and healthy orthorexia, among a group of Brazilian gym users. First, we adapted the Spanish version of the TOS to the Brazilian Portuguese language following international protocols to guarantee idiomatic, semantic, conceptual, and cultural equivalence. Then participants completed both the new Portuguese version of the TOS and a socioeconomic questionnaire. Among our sample of 226 young Brazilian adults (63.7% men; M age = 28.8, SD = 5.1 years), we assessed the bi-factorial model of the TOS through factorial, convergent, and discriminant validity, reliability, and factorial invariance. We calculated the mean scores of the TOS factors and the frequency of behaviors of both orthorexia nervosa and healthy orthorexia. The new Portuguese version was well understood by participants, and the TOS bi-factorial model presented adequate psychometric properties and showed invariance in independent subsamples and in men and women. The mean scores were different between sexes only for orthorexia nervosa, with women obtaining higher values. The frequency of orthorexia nervosa behaviors was 5.3% and of healthy orthorexia was 41.2%. Based on these findings, the Brazilian Portuguese version of the TOS can be a useful tool for investigating orthorexia-like behaviors in future research.
Development of Al–Mg–Si alloy performance by addition of grain refiner Al–5Ti–1B alloy
Authors: El-Aziz Khaled Abd , Ahmed Emad M , Alghtani Abdulaziz H , Felemban Bassem F , Ali Hafiz T , Megahed Mona , Saber Dalia
Published: June 2021

Aluminum alloys are the most essential part of all shaped castings manufactured, mainly in the automotive, food industry, and structural applications. There is little consensus as to the precise relationship between grain size after grain refinement and corrosion resistance; conflicting conclusions have been published showing that reduced grain size can decrease or increase corrosion resistance. The effect of Al–5Ti–1B grain refiner (GR alloy) with different percentages on the mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of Aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy (Al–Mg–Si) was studied. The average grain size is determined according to the E112ASTM standard. The compressive test specimens were made as per ASTM: E8/E8M-16 standard to get their compressive properties. The bulk hardness using Vickers hardness testing machine at a load of 50 g. Electrochemical corrosion tests were carried out in 3.5 % NaCl solution using Autolab Potentiostat/Galvanostat (PGSTAT 30).The grain size of the Al–Mg–Si alloy was reduced from 82 to 46 µm by the addition of GR alloy. The morphology of α-Al dendrites changes from coarse dendritic structure to fine equiaxed grains due to the addition of GR alloy and segregation of Ti, which controls the growth of primary α-Al. In addition, the mechanical properties of the Al–Mg–Si alloy were improved by GR alloy addition. GR alloy addition to Al–Mg–Si alloy produced fine-grained structure and better hardness and compressive strength. The addition of GR alloy did not reveal any marked improvements in the corrosion properties of Al–Mg–Si alloy.
Theorizing Status Distance: Rethinking the Micro Theories of Representation and Diversity in Public Organizations
Authors: Groeneveld Sandra , Meier Kenneth J.
Published: June 2021

Through bringing the concept of status distance to representative bureaucracy and diversity management literature, this article develops new hypotheses that can guide future studies on representation and diversity in public organizations. First, including status distance brings consideration of the tensions that minority representation creates between integration within the workforce and the pressures on minority bureaucrats to actively represent clientele. Second, the way status distance plays out in the interaction of bureaucrats with co-workers and citizen-clients depends on characteristics of the national and organizational environment and type of service.
Emotional and Behavioral Assessment of Youths With Visual Impairments Utilizing the BASC-2
Authors: Sims Stephanie Vetere , Celso Brian , Lombardo Ted
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Few studies have examined the psychological and mental health effects of visual impairments (i.e., blindness and low vision) on youths. Our objectives were to describe the behavioral and emotional profile of students with visual impairments, compare the BASC-2 composite scores for youths with visual impairments with the normative data to determine if significant differences exist, and compare the BASC-2 scores of students categorized as having low vision with students categorized as being totally blind. Methods: A total of 63 students with visual impairments entering a state school for the deaf and blind between 2012 and 2017 had a parent complete the BASC-2 Parent Rating Scale as part of the intake procedure. A retrospective study was conducted to determine patterns of emotional and behavioral strengths and weaknesses in students with low vision and blindness. A Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) and Wilcoxon Rank Sums test were performed to test for differences between children who are blind and children with low vision. Results: Students with visual impairments showed higher levels of clinical symptoms such as anxiety and withdrawal. Statistically significant higher deficits were detected for the students with visual impairments on the Behavioral Symptoms Index and Internalizing Problems composites and significant lower differences for the Adaptive Skills and Externalizing Problems composites compared to the BASC-2 normative sample. When compared with youths with low vision, students who are blind had statistically significant scores (i.e., deficits) for adaptive skills and resiliency. Discussion: Our results suggest that a substantial proportion of students with visual impairments may experience more emotional and behavioral difficulties than the average youth while lacking the adaptive skills to manage their conduct adequately. Implications for practitioners: Professionals working with youths with visual impairments face a number of daunting challenges, since the conditions under the visually impaired umbrella are heterogeneous, and variation exists within a statistically low-incidence disability category. Therefore, those who work with youths with visual impairments have to apply various and unique methods to understand, train, teach, rehabilitate, or counsel these youths.
Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study in Diagnostics of H-Type Tracheoesophageal Fistula in Children
Authors: Urík Milan , Tuma Jiří , Jančíková Jana , Bezděková Denisa , Urbanová Petra , Dohnalová Lucie , Papež Jan , Jimramovský Tomáš , Jouza Martin , Jabandžiev Petr
Published: June 2021

Esophageal atresia remains one of the most challenging congenital anomalies of the newborn. It can occur with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), and to date, there are still no universally recommended diagnostic procedures. The so-called H-type TEF is that without esophageal atresia, and its prevalence is lower than 5% of all TEFs. We present a case report of a newborn with regurgitation, vomiting, feeding problems, dyspnea, and repeated aspiration bronchopneumonia. A wide range of diagnostics procedures had been performed with negative results until we used videofluoroscopy, which revealed the H-type TEF and allowed appropriate treatment of the patient.
Endoscopic Endonasal Orbital Apex Decompression for Carotid Cavernous Fistula
Authors: Shaikh Noah , Leonard Anthony , Patton Caitlyn , Boo SoHyun , Nguyen John , Turner Meghan
Published: June 2021

Significance Statement

This case report demonstrates a novel approach to treating a rare indirect carotid cavernous fistula (CCF) and associated abducens palsy. Although endovascular treatment is the standard of care in the management of CCFs, it was contraindicated in this patient. Instead, she underwent an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) with decompression of the medial orbital apex, including the cavernous sinus and optic nerve, with complete resolution of headache, lateral gaze palsy, and diplopia within 2 months.
A Configurational Exploration of How Female and Male CEOs Influence Their Compensation
Authors: Lewellyn Krista B. , Muller-Kahle Maureen I.
Published: June 2021

The issues of excessive CEO compensation and gender pay gaps garner much attention from management scholars and the general public. In this study, we integrate these topics and explore the complex interdependent nature of how CEOs influence directors’ evaluative perceptions about appropriate levels of CEO compensation and whether female and male CEOs do so in different ways. Drawing from role congruity theory and previous research on executive compensation, we use a configurational approach to identify how CEOs achieve high levels of compensation through different combinations of influence arising from their power, origin, tenure, similarities with evaluators, and organizational conditions. Using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis with a matched pair sample of female and male CEOs from 2010 to 2016, we find there are multiple configurations of influence conditions by which female and male CEOs achieve high compensation. Our inductive analysis, unpacking how these configurations differ between female and male CEOs, shows four distinct influence mechanisms: leveraging power and role empathy, trailblazer responsibility, leveraging power and similarity, and leveraging role empathy. These mechanisms highlight the ways influence conditions complement or mutually reinforce one another in different ways for female and male CEOs. Implications for theory and research about the unique challenges female executives face in achieving equitable treatment in the workplace are also discussed.
Health Insurance as a Healthcare Financing Mechanism in India: Key Strategic Insights and a Business Model Perspective
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Duggirala Aditya
Published: June 2021

This study provides strategic insights and a business model perspective on health insurance as a vehicle for financing healthcare. It uses both primary (expert interview) and secondary data to investigate the overall disease burden and healthcare industry trends and track healthcare financing through the health insurance mechanism in India. To identify the critical success factors and to gain a business model perspective within the health insurance industry, telephonic and face-to-face interviews were held with 27 experts in the healthcare, insurance, and strategic management field. The study’s findings suggest that the growth of health insurance as a healthcare financing mechanism in India has been challenged continuously and impacted by multiple changes in the health insurance and healthcare industry over the last decade. One of the critical challenges faced by insurance companies is the high incurred claim ratio. We find the Indian health insurance industry to be very competitive and that the focus on critical success factors can help insurance companies gain a competitive advantage. The health insurance business model is unique, with varying configurations, and broadly comprises strategic choices and consequences. In this article, drawing from the strategic management literature on the resource-based view (RBV) and insights gained from the interviews of healthcare and health insurance experts, we highlight the six critical success factors relevant for competing in the health insurance business. We also list five strategic choices that can help health insurance companies improve their profitability and gain a sustained competitive advantage. We recommend that the insurance companies design and develop an innovative business model centred around lowering the claim ratio and simultaneously increasing the customer willingness to pay. To increase the customer willingness to pay and reduce the claim ratio, the insurance companies should focus on the six critical success factors and invest in the five strategic choices.
The clinical guiding value of a radiomics model for androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Yu Na , Wang Baoping , Ren Jialiang , Wu Hui , Gao Yang , Liu Aishi , Niu Guangming
Published: June 2021

Objective

Three models were used to evaluate prostate cancer after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and to determine the value of detecting residual lesions after treatment.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed patients with prostate cancer who received ADT from January 2018 to June 2019. Patients were divided into ADT responder and ADT non-responder groups, and clinical risk factors were determined. Regions of interest were manually contoured on each slice on fat-saturated-T2-weighted imaging, and radiomic features were extracted. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression were used to establish radiomics, clinical and combined models.

Results

There were 23 ADT non-responders and 20 ADT responders. In the clinical model, total prostate-specific antigen concentration and T stage were independent predictors of efficacy (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.774). The characteristics, MinIntensity and Correlation_ angle135_offset4 indicated an effective clinical model (AUC = 0.807). GLCMEntropy_ AllDirection_offset1_SD was the best feature to differentiate residual lesions from the central gland (CG) (Lesion-CG model, AUC = 0.955). Correlation_angle135_offset4, GLCMEntropy_ AllDirection_offset4_SD and GLCMEntropy_AllDirection_offset7_SD differentiated residual lesions from the peripheral zone (PZ) (Lesion-PZ model, AUC = 0.855). The AUC for the combined model was 0.904.

Conclusions

Our models can guide the clinical treatment of patients with different ADT responses. Furthermore, the radiomics model can detect prostate cancer that is non-responsive to ADT.
Frequency of beta S globin gene haplotypes among sickle cell patients in Nigeria
Authors: Adabale Abosede , Makanjuola Samira Batista Lobo , Akinbami Akinsegun , Dosunmu Adedoyin , Akanmu Alani , Javid Farideh A , Ajonuma Louis C
Published: June 2021

Objective

To determine the frequency of beta s globin gene haplotypes in Nigerian patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and to measure their correlation with clinical and haematological characteristics.

Methods

This study enrolled patients with SCD and collected their peripheral blood for restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis in order to identify five polymorphic sites in the β-globin gene cluster.

Results

A total of 245 homozygous SCD patients (490 alleles) were included in the study. Among the analysed alleles, 426 (86.9%) had the Benin (BEN) haplotype; 19 (3.9%) had the Senegal (SEN) haplotype; 31 (6.3%) had the Cameroon haplotype; five (1.0%) had the Bantu/Central African Republic haplotype; and nine 9 (1.8%) had atypical haplotypes. No significant association was observed between the haplotypes and haematological events, although patients with the BEN/SEN haplotype showed improved red blood cell counts, haemoglobin levels and red blood cell width index. No significant association was observed between the haplotypes and the three clinical manifestations, although patients with the BEN/SEN haplotype showed a four-fold lower frequency of painful episodes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the SEN haplotype combined with the BEN haplotype might contribute toward a better haematological profile and milder clinical severity in SCD.
Cervical stump necrosis after laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy: successful management by laparoscopic approach
Authors: Le Xin , Dogan Nasuh Utku , Favero Giovanni , Köhler Christhardt
Published: June 2021

Persistent bleeding from the remaining cervix after laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH) is normally related to the presence of residual functioning endometrial tissue. However, postoperative significant vaginal hemorrhage caused by cervical necrosis following LSH is relatively rare. A 39-year-old nulligravida was admitted to the emergency department with hypovolemic shock after LSH performed in another hospital for treatment of uterine fibroids 18 days previously. Following hemodynamic stabilization and mechanical tamponade of the bleeding uterine cervix, laparoscopic simple trachelectomy was carried out and antibiotics were administered. The patient developed no surgical or clinical complications and was discharged 4 days after surgery. Histologic examination revealed extensive areas of tissue necrosis and no signs of malignancy. Stump necrosis and accompanying bleeding are rare but serious complications of LSH. Infection is an important component of this entity and should be treated. Endoscopic management of this condition appears to be feasible and safe.
Life-threatening brachial artery hemorrhage and a lethal outcome in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1: two case reports and a review of the literature
Authors: Lee Jisun , Kim Yook
Published: June 2021

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by neuorocutaneous lesions and multisystem involvement. Other notable features of NF1 include vasculopathy in the form of stenosis, occlusion, aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous deformity, and rupture, which are difficult to manage and can have fatal outcomes. We describe two cases of extensive and progressive brachial artery hemorrhage following blunt trauma in patients with NF1. Management of these patients included combined endovascular and surgical treatment based on the patients’ condition. The patients had a poor prognosis because of uncontrolled bleeding. While one patient died, the other survived, but the involved arm was amputated. Endovascular treatment is a widely used, popular, minimally invasive, and safe method to control the bleeding associated with NF1. However, this treatment can be challenging at times. Close collaboration between an interventional radiologist and surgeon is necessary for optimal treatment and careful follow-up for this condition.
Traditional versus mirror three-dimensional printing technology for isolated acetabular fractures: a retrospective study with a median follow-up of 25 months
Authors: Xiao Kai , Xu Bo , Ding Lin , Yu Weiguang , Bao Lei , Zhang Xinchao , Chen Meiji , Liu Xiangzhen , Lin Huanyi , Li Tengfei
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the outcomes of traditional three-dimensional (3D) printing technology (TPT) versus mirror 3D printing technology (MTT) in treating isolated acetabular fractures (IAFs).

Methods

Consecutive patients with an IAF treated by either TPT or MTT at our tertiary medical centre from 2012 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Follow-up was performed 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and annually thereafter. The primary outcome was the Harris hip score (HHS), and the secondary outcomes were major intraoperative variables and key orthopaedic complications.

Results

One hundred fourteen eligible patients (114 hips) with an IAF (TPT, n = 56; MTT, n = 58) were evaluated. The median follow-up was 25 months (range, 21–28 months). At the last follow-up, the mean HHS was 82.46 ±14.70 for TPT and 86.30 ± 13.26 for MTT with a statistically significant difference. Significant differences were also detected in the major intraoperative variables (operation time, intraoperative blood loss, number of fluoroscopic screenings, and anatomical reduction number) and the major orthopaedic complications (loosening, implant failure, and heterotopic ossification).

Conclusion

Compared with TPT, MTT tends to produce accurate IAF reduction and may result in better intraoperative variables and a lower rate of major orthopaedic complications.
Multipurpose Bracket Positioning Tool: A Modified Probe for Accurate Bracket Placement
Authors: Shenoi Susmita Bala , Deshpande Sumedh , Hattarki Rohan S.
Published: June 2021

There is no single bracket gauge that can be used universally for all teeth to orient brackets in the vertical and axial planes simultaneously.

To overcome the increased armamentarium and steps involved in accurately positioning brackets, we have modified a UNC-15 probe to fabricate a multipurpose bracket positioning tool (MBP tool).

Thus, one single instrument can be used not only to position brackets (both anterior and posterior) in all planes but also for the quick verification of positioned brackets just before curing.
The ascendancy of stakeholder capitalism: What is its meaning for corporate governance?
Authors: Hemphill Thomas A. , Kelley Keith E. , Cullari Francine
Published: June 2021

We address the recent ascendancy of “stakeholder capitalism” and its potential impact on US corporate governance practice. Utilizing a four dimensional, analytic framework (legal, ethical, economic, and political), the authors evaluate the potential effects of stakeholder capitalism on the existing corporate governance of companies, concluding that stakeholder capitalism is a commitment, not a legal requirement; it is currently being practiced in boardrooms; and yet it is not the responsibility of the company, under stakeholder capitalism, to solve America’s social issues. The article concludes with business policy recommendations for directors concerning likely legal, ethical, economic, and political changes affecting stakeholder capitalism.
The impact of transformational leadership and interactional justice on follower performance and organizational commitment in a business context
Authors: Thompson Geir , Buch Robert , Thompson Per-Magnus Moe , Glasø Lars
Published: June 2021

The relationships between transformational leaders and several follower outcomes have been well investigated, but the mechanism through which these leadership behaviors relate to such outcomes is relatively unexplored. By investigating the mediating role of interactional justice, using structural equation modeling analyses, and data collected from supervisors and direct reports at various organizational levels, the present study provides insight into the psychological processes underlying transformational leadership and its effectiveness on follower outcomes. In line with social exchange theory, the main takeaway from the present study is suggesting that leaders, who display transformational leadership behavior in a manner perceived by followers as respectful, fair, and consistent with moral and ethical standards, may expect greater follower organizational attachment as an appropriate response to interactional justice.
Radicalization in the Social Media Era: Understanding the Relationship between Self-Radicalization and the Internet
Authors: Hollewell Georgia F. , Longpré Nicholas
Published: June 2021

September 11th was a turning point in the understanding of terrorism and radicalization. The Internet has provided an instrumental change regarding how terrorists communicate and spread their propaganda, proving a cause of concern for counterterrorism units. The increased use of social networking platforms has provided a significant change in the process of self-radicalization, with younger generations at greater risk. The aim of the project was to study the relationship between social media and self-radicalization among college and university students. A sample of 499 participants was recruited throughout Amazon Mechanical Turk and social media platforms. Measures on emotional intelligence, psychological involvement on social media, attitudes toward terrorism, and political violence, and loneliness were gathered. Results showed that individuals holding a university degree—especially young men—were more at risk of endorzing positive attitudes toward political violence and terrorism, and, therefore, more at risk of being radicalized.
Environmental assessment of construction and demolition waste recycling in Bolivia: Focus on transportation distances and selective collection rates
Authors: Ferronato Navarro , Guisbert Lizarazu Gabriela Edith , Gorritty Portillo Marcelo Antonio , Moresco Luca , Conti Fabio , Torretta Vincenzo
Published: June 2021

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) management in developing countries is a global concern. The analysis of scenarios and the implementation of life cycle assessment (LCA) support decision-makers in introducing integrated CDW management systems. This paper introduces the application of an LCA in La Paz (Bolivia), where CDW is mainly dumped in open areas. The aim of the research is to evaluate the benefits of inert CDW recycling in function of the selective collection rate, defined as the amount of waste (%wt.) sorted at the source in relation to the total waste amount produced, and the distances from the CDW generation to the material recycling facility. The outcomes of the research suggest that increasing the selective collection rates (5% to 99%) spread the importance of transportation distances planning since it affects the magnitude of the environmental impacts (1.05 tCO2-eq to 20.7 tCO2-eq per km traveled). Transportation limits have been found to be lower than about 40 km in order to make recycling beneficial for all environmental impacts and for all selective collection rate, with the eutrophication potential as the limiting indicator. The theoretical analysis suggests implementing LCA with primary data and involving statistics related to the transportation of virgin materials avoided thanks to recycling. The outcomes of the research support the implementation of CDW recycling in developing countries since it has been found that material recovery is always beneficial.
The Role of SBA Loans in Small Business Survival after Disaster Events
Authors: Watson Maria
Published: June 2021

Local businesses are important for recovering communities, yet program analyses of the effectiveness of Federal disaster loans—particularly for businesses—are limited and contradictory. This study looks at the role U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans played in the long-term survival of small businesses in Galveston County, Texas after the 2008 Hurricane Ike. This research uses quasi-experimental design, matching methods, and conditional logistic regression to tease out the effect of the loan from potential confounding factors. The results show that businesses that received a disaster loan were significantly more likely to survive than their controls, and businesses that moved were also more likely to survive.
Business simulation in higher education: A case study from a network cooperation perspective
Authors: Figueiredo Natália de Lima , Franco Mário
Published: June 2021

The importance of cooperation between higher education institutions (HEIs) has increased and allows the development of competitive advantages, particularly through the transfer of knowledge and technology. Establishing well-conceived and well-managed cooperation networks can bring benefits and overcome obstacles. This article assesses the importance of cooperation between HEIs, characterizing the type of partner suitable for the establishment of cooperation and analysing the benefits and barriers that may arise. To achieve this objective, a qualitative approach based on a case study was adopted. Portuguese HEIs cooperating in the Business Simulation (BS) project were analysed. The results obtained reveal that cooperation between HEIs, more specifically in the BS project, is fundamental for the exchange of knowledge, the acquisition of new technology and platforms, and the acquisition of new work practices. However, it will be necessary to overcome barriers, principally of a more technological nature. This study uses a new and innovative structure, employing a model that expands knowledge on the topic by identifying three dimensions that influence cooperation between HEIs. The authors also present implications for theory and practice and propose an agenda for future research.
Monitoring the continuous manufacture of a polymeric foam via a thermokinetic-informed acoustic technique
Authors: Holt Joseph A , Torres-Sanchez Carmen , Conway Paul P
Published: June 2021

Polymer foams are difficult to characterise due to rapidly evolving physical features from liquid to porous solid. Swift changes in volume, porosity and moduli render many techniques challenging for the characterisation of the foam curing during a manufacturing process. A technique that employs the longitudinal speed of sound of an ultrasonic signal, informed by a thermokinetic model, is proposed as an in situ, in-line, non-destructive and continuous monitoring tool during the production of rigid polyurethane foams. This study demonstrates that speed of sound measurements are suitable for (a) continuous characterisation of different foaming stages in the polymer reaction and curing; (b) determining the degree of cure for the continuous monitoring of foams, and (c) predicting mechanical properties (i.e., stiffness and Poisson's ratio) of cured foam samples. The validity of this monitoring technique is confirmed by comparison with well-established methods that use physical characteristics (e.g., expansion rate, electrical properties), thermo-kinetic models and mechanical testing. This method positions itself as a monitoring tool and convenient method for determining material stiffness during production.
Integral terminal sliding-mode robust vibration control of large space intelligent truss structures using a disturbance observer
Authors: Tian Dalong , Guo Jianguo
Published: June 2021

This study aims to develop an advanced integral terminal sliding-mode robust control method using a disturbance observer (DO) to suppress the forced vibration of a large space intelligent truss structure (LSITS). First, the dynamics of the electromechanical coupling of the piezoelectric stack actuator and the LSITS, based on finite element and Lagrangian methods, are established. Subsequently, to constrict the vibration of the structure, a novel integral terminal sliding-mode control (ITSMC) law for the DO is used to estimate the parameter perturbation of the LSITS based on a continuous external disturbance. Simulation results show that, under a forced vibration and compared with the ITSMC system without a DO, the displacement amplitude of the ITSMC system with the DO is effectively reduced. In the case where the model parameters of the LSITS deviate by ±50%, and an unknown continuous external disturbance exists, the control system with the DO can adequately attenuate the structural vibration and realize robust control. Concurrently, the voltage of the employed piezoelectric stack actuator is reduced, and voltage jitter is alleviated.
Mediational g-formula for time-varying treatment and repeated-measured multiple mediators: Application to atorvastatin’s effect on cardiovascular disease via cholesterol lowering and anti-inflammatory actions in elderly type 2 diabetics
Authors: Yamamuro Shintaro , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Iimuro Satoshi , Matsuyama Yutaka
Published: June 2021

Modern causal mediation theory has formalized several types of indirect and direct effects of treatment on outcomes regarding specific mediator variables. We reviewed and unified distinct approaches to estimate the “interventional” direct and indirect effects for multiple mediators and time-varying variables. This study was motivated by a clinical trial of elderly type-2 diabetic patients in which atorvastatin was widely prescribed to control patients’ cholesterol levels to reduce diabetic complications, including cardiovascular disease. Among atorvastatin’s preventive side-effects (pleiotropic effects), we focus on its anti-inflammatory action as measured by white blood cell counts. Hence, we estimate atorvastatin’s interventional indirect effects through cholesterol lowering and through anti-inflammatory action, and interventional direct effect bypassing these two actions. In our analysis, total effect (six-year cardiovascular disease risk difference) estimated by standard plug-in g-formula of −3.65% (95% confidence interval: −10.29%, 4.38%) is decomposed into indirect effect via low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (−0.90% [−1.91%, −0.07%]), via white blood cell counts (−0.03% [−0.22%, 0.11%]), and direct effect (−2.84% [−9.71%, 5.41%]) by the proposed parametric mediational g-formula. The SAS program and its evaluation via simulated datasets are provided in the Supplemental materials.
Foreign Direct Investment and Growth Nexus: Further Evidence from Africa’s Largest Economy
Authors: Orji Anthony , Nwagu Godson Umunna , Ogbuabor Jonathan E. , Anthony-Orji Onyinye I.
Published: June 2021

The study investigated the effect of foreign direct investment (FDI) on economic growth in Nigeria, which is currently Africa’s largest economy, and also determined the long-run relationship between FDI and economic growth in Nigeria from 1981 to 2017. The study adopted the autoregressive distributed lag modelling approach and ordinary least square in the analysis. The empirical results revealed that FDI has a positive and significant relationship with economic growth in Nigeria within the period under review. The study concluded and recommended that Nigerian Government should formulate policies that will attract more FDI in all sectors of the economy especially in the service and manufacturing sectors, so as to improve the infrastructural facilities and production of goods in the country and also expand its labour force. Finally, there is need to improve the educational policy of the country in order to raise the stock of human capital in the country that will make useful policies for the attraction for productive FDIs in the country.

JEL Classification: E22, F21, F23, F43
Regional characteristics of the gender employment gap: A spatio-temporal approach
Authors: Chica-Olmo Jorge , Checa-Olivas Marina , Lopez-Castellano Fernando
Published: June 2021

There is a substantial body of research that recognises the importance of analysing regional characteristics in employment and labour relations that occur in a given geographical context. However, this phenomenon has been scarcely studied from a spatial approach. This article uses a spatio-temporal panel data model to examine the spatial interactions between the gender employment gap and, some labour and socioeconomic characteristics of 727 municipalities of Andalusia, Spain, for the period 2012–2016. The results show that due to spatial diffusion mechanisms, a spatial spillover effect occurs in both the gender gap in employment and in some of the labour and socioeconomic characteristics considered. These findings may be extended to other geographic areas and can be of use for the implementation of regional policies aimed at narrowing the gender employment gap.

JEL Codes: R10, J16, E24
Men’s Perceptions of Violence against Women: Improving Cultural Literacy for Combating Violence within Family
Authors: Al-Natour Ahlam , Gillespie Gordon Lee
Published: June 2021

While research evidence exists about Jordanian men’s perceptions and attitudes about violence against women (VAW), there is a scientific gap for addressing VAW as a Jordanian cultural norm. This study aimed to describe Jordanian men’s perceptions and attitudes toward VAW, leading factors for VAW, and strategies to combat VAW. A qualitative descriptive design was used with 14 Jordanian men and semi-structured interviews. Nine themes emerged: men’s definitions of VAW, men’s beliefs and attitudes about VAW, men’s feelings toward VAW, intensifying factors for VAW, men’s justification for women staying in abusive relationships, the hazardous impact of VAW, experience of using violence against wives, men’s strategies for combating VAW, and absence or limited role of services for victims of VAW. Men in many cultures including Jordan inherit structured patriarchal ideology, which gives men the perceived right to control women and to manage familial conflict. Inherited cultural beliefs about male roles within families should be restructured by collaborating with community stakeholders to combat VAW.
Care Barriers for Patients With Nonsyndromic Orofacial Clefts in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Allaf Hanaa , Helal Narmin , Basri Osama , AlShadwi Ahmad , Sabbagh Heba
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the barriers faced by patients with nonsyndromic orofacial clefts (NSOFC) throughout their treatment course in Saudi Arabia.

Design:

A cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Eleven different governmental health care centers across Saudi Arabia. Patients: Records of pediatric patients with NSOFC.

Interventions:

A questionnaire with multiple validation stages was designed to assess the barriers in care of these patients through telephonic interviews with the parents or guardians of patients with NSOFC.

Main Outcome Measures:

We identified 3 care-barrier–related factors: (1) geographic accessibility, (2) appointment availability and accessibility, and (3) scheduling-related barriers.

Results:

Overall, 240 participants of both sexes, with orofacial cleft of various types and with various demographic characteristics (residence, family monthly income, and caregiver level of education) were included. The highest mean score of care barriers was reported for scheduling-related barriers. Overall, 186 individuals reported sometimes/often not receiving the required medical care for the following reasons: scheduling difficulties (89%; 37.1%), prolonged waiting room time (40%; 16.7%), and transportation difficulties (36%; 15.0%). A linear regression showed that parents cited late appointments as the main reason for patients with NSOFC not receiving adequate medical care. Care-barrier factors were significantly related to gender ( P = .035), patient age ( P < .001), place of residency ( P < .001), and caregiver’s level of education ( P = .015).

Conclusions:

Gaps in the health care system directly related to common care barriers need to be addressed to ensure adequate care for patients with NSOFC.
Validation of the Social Media Disorder Scale in Adolescents: Findings From a Large-Scale Nationally Representative Sample
Authors: Boer Maartje , Stevens Gonneke W. J. M. , Finkenauer Catrin , Koning Ina M. , van den Eijnden Regina J. J. M.
Published: June 2021

Large-scale validation research on instruments measuring problematic social media use (SMU) is scarce. Using a nationally representative sample of 6,626 Dutch adolescents aged 12 to 16 years, the present study examined the psychometric properties of the nine-item Social Media Disorder scale. The structural validity was solid, because one underlying factor was identified, with adequate factor loadings. The internal consistency was good, but the test information was most reliable at moderate to high scores on the scale’s continuum. The factor structure was measurement invariant across different subpopulations. Three subgroups were identified, distinguished by low, medium, and high probabilities of endorsing the criteria. Higher levels of problematic SMU were associated with higher probabilities of mental, school, and sleep problems, confirming adequate criterion validity. Girls, lower educated adolescents, 15-year-olds, and non-Western adolescents were most likely to report problematic SMU. Given its good psychometric properties, the scale is suitable for research on problematic SMU among adolescents.
The Quest for Low-Carbon Mobility: Sustainability Tensions and Responses When Retail Translates a Manufacturer’s Decarbonization Strategy
Authors: Wannags Laura Luisa , Gold Stefan
Published: June 2021

Corporate action to tackle climate change is affected by multifaceted tensions, which are insufficiently investigated. It therefore remains unclear how tensions become salient and how they are responded to when a new strategy is introduced. We propose that translation theory can inform paradox theory and explore this conceptualization using a qualitative case-study research design. Specifically, we examine how retail translates the decarbonization strategy of a car manufacturer. We show how retail employees, in their role as translators, compare the manufacturer’s strategy against their context and thereby make tensions salient in a context-dependent manner. Additionally, we examine how translators respond to salient tensions by applying eight different contextualization mechanisms to resolve the tensions between the new strategy and contextual factors. In one subunit, the translation of the new strategy fails, and the tension persists. We derive two theoretical propositions from the studied patterns of the salience of and response to tensions.
Expanding Understanding of Racial-Ethnic Differences in ADHD Prevalence Rates among Children to Include Asians and Alaskan Natives/American Indians
Authors: Wong Ashlyn W. W. A. , Landes Scott D.
Published: June 2021

Background

Prior studies show that ADHD prevalence rates vary by race-ethnicity, but these studies do not include a full range of racial-ethnic minority groups.

Objective

This study aimed to understand differences in ADHD prevalence among children across a wider range of racial-ethnic groups, overall and stratified by biological sex.

Method

Data on children aged 5 to 17 from the 2004 to 2018 National Health Interview Survey Sample Child Files were used in analyses ( N = 120,129).

Results

Compared to Non-Hispanic White children, ADHD prevalence was lower among Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Asian children. This difference was present for both males and females. Across all racial-ethnic groups, males had higher ADHD prevalence than females.

Conclusion

Results from this study provide further evidence that racial-ethnic disparities in ADHD prevalence rates persist across sex and provide initial evidence of substantially lower ADHD prevalence among Non-Hispanic Asians. Implications, limitations, and future research directions derived from the results are discussed.
A realistic model for transverse shear stiffness prediction of composite corrugated-core sandwich structure with bonding effect
Authors: Wang Tianshu , Guo Licheng
Published: June 2021

In this paper, a shear stiffness model for corrugated-core sandwich structures is proposed. The bonding area is discussed independently. The core is thought to be hinged on the skins with torsional stiffness. The analytical model was verified by FEM solution. Compared with the previous studies, the new model can predict the valley point of the shear stiffness at which the relationship between the shear stiffness and the angle of the core changes from negative correlation to positive correlation. The valley point increases when the core becomes stronger. For the structure with a angle of the core smaller than counterpart for the valley point, the existing analytical formulations may significantly underestimate the shear stiffness of the structure with strong skins. The results obtained by some previous models may be only 10 persent of that of the present model, which is supported by the FEM model.
Leader or party? Quantifying and exploring behavioral personalization 1996–2019
Authors: Quinlan Stephen , McAllister Ian
Published: June 2021

It has become almost a truism that parliamentary elections have become more personalized. However, evidence for this proposition among voters is relatively mixed and we lack a quantification of leader inspired voting. Using data from Comparative Study of Electoral Systems (CSES) project and consistent measures of leader and party popularity across 86 parliamentary elections in 31 polities between 1996 and 2019, we break new ground in the study of behavioral personalization in several respects. First, we provide a consistent and longitudinal test of leader inclined voting, separate from party evaluations, in the form of a vote-leader/party favorite alignment index. Our results show 6% of voters align their vote with their favorite leader solely, and one in five voters align their vote primarily with their favorite leader. While significant, more voters align their vote with their favorite party. Second, we find that leader motivated voting is most prevalent among non-partisans, older voters, and in elections where ideological polarization is low. Third, we demonstrate that voters solely motivated by leaders are most likely to switch their votes between elections. Our results have implications for our understanding of leaders’ impact on elections.
Internet penetration and international travel and tourism expenditure: The role of foreign exchange control
Authors: Lorente-Bayona Laura Vanesa , Gras-Gil Ester , Moreno-Enguix María del Rocío
Published: June 2021

The total amount of digital travel sales worldwide increases significantly every year, yet previous studies on outbound tourism expenditures have scarcely discussed the role of foreign exchange control (Fxc) as a barrier to e-internationalization. In the era of e-commerce, residents of more than 40 economies are not allowed to buy or pay for foreign products by the Internet. This article, with data from 95 economies in the period 2012–2017, concludes that Internet penetration development increases international tourism expenditure. On the other hand, the control of foreign exchange decreases the relationship between internet penetration and tourism expenditure. Therefore, Fxc is clearly a barrier to electronic internationalization and tourism expenditure.