bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxonomic review of the slender mouse opossums of the “Parvidens” group from Brazil (Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae: Marmosops), with description of a new species
Authors: FERREIRA CLAUDILÍVIA , DE OLIVEIRA ANA CRISTINA MENDES , LIMA-SILVA LUAN GABRIEL , ROSSI ROGÉRIO VIEIRA
Published: December 2020

The genus Marmosops comprises small marsupials of the family Didelphidae (≤ 200 g), widely distributed in a variety of lowland rainforest and montane forest habitats, extending from Panama to southern Bolivia and southeastern Brazil. The smallest species of the genus are included in the “Parvidens” group, which includes M. pakaraimae, M. parvidens and M. pinheiroi. Although the monophyly of this group and species relationships are well defined, molecular studies have indicated that M. pinheiroi may represent a species complex, which has never been tested based on morphological analysis. In this study, we present the taxonomic review of M. pinheiroi based on the largest sample ever analyzed of this species. The external and craniodental morphology of 613 specimens of M. parvidens and M. pinheiroi from the northern, eastern, central and southern Brazilian Amazonia and northern Cerrado were examined. Besides, 28 craniodental dimensions were measured from adult specimens to support univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. Our results corroborate the validity of M. parvidens and indicate that M. pinheiroi is a complex formed by three species – M. pinheiroi (s. s.), distributed to the north of the Amazon River, from eastern Venezuela to the state of Amapá in Brazil; M. woodalli, which occurs east of the Xingu river and in the Marajó Island, state of Pará, extending to the east in the states of Tocantins and Maranhão; and a new species that occurs from the left bank of the Madeira River to the left bank of the Xingu River, herein described. Although the great morphometric similarity, species of the M. pinheiroi complex tended to be more different from each other than to M. parvidens in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Morphologically, these species may be positively distinguished by unique combinations of characters, such as dorsal and ventral fur coloration, arrangement of gray based hairs on the venter, supraoccipital shape, development of anterior and posterior portions of the M3 stylar shelf, continuity or not between the preprotocrista and anterior labial cingulum along the anterior margin of the upper molars, development of the metaconule in the upper molars, and number of cusps of the m4 talonid. The present work provides new perspectives for studies based on molecular data in order to test the species hypotheses recognized here and evaluate to what extent the Tapajós, Madeira, and Araguaia-Tocantins rivers actually isolate Marmosops populations.
Description of larva and female of Polypedilum (Probolum) bullum Zhang & Wang with DNA barcodes
Authors: LEI QI , CHEN JINXIAN , SONG CHAO , QI XIN , ZHANG RUILEI
Published: December 2020

The larva and female of Polypedilum (Probolum) bullum Zhang & Wang associated with morphological characteristics and DNA barcodes are described and illustrated for the first time. The female is characteristic with developed dorsomesal lobe and ventrolateral lobe both densely covered with apical setae, ventrolateral lobe partially covered by dorsomesal lobe. The larva is distinguished by the shape of mentum, pecten epipharyngis, labral SI and labral SII.
Genetic Data: Potential Uses and Misuses in Marketing
Authors: Daviet Remi , Nave Gideon , Wind Jerry
Published: December 2020

Advances in molecular genetics have led to the exponential growth of the direct-to-consumer genetic testing industry, resulting in the assembly of massive privately owned genetic databases. This article explores the potential impact of this new data type on the field of marketing. Drawing on findings from behavioral genetic research, the authors propose a framework that incorporates genetic influences into existing consumer behavior theory and use it to survey potential marketing uses of genetic data. Applications include business strategies that rely on genetic variants as bases for segmentation and targeting, creative uses that develop consumers’ sense of community and personalization, use of genetically informed study designs to test causal relations, and refinement of consumer theory by uncovering biological mechanisms underlying behavior. The authors further evaluate ethical challenges related to autonomy, privacy, misinformation, and discrimination that are unique to the use of genetic data and are not sufficiently addressed by current regulations. They conclude by proposing an agenda for future research.
Light at the end of the tunnel:The impacts of expected major transport improvements on residential property prices
Authors: Bao Helen XH , Larsson Johan P , Wong Vivien
Published: December 2020

Properties near public transportation systems are usually sold at a premium owing to the willingness of firms and people to pay for access to workplace and leisure. However, the economic impact of major infrastructure investments remains an empirical question plagued by identification issues. We investigate the economic impacts of a major transportation development project currently under construction in Hong Kong: the Tuen Mun–Chek Lap Kok tunnel, namely the effects on property prices of the expansion of the regional road network in the Greater Bay Area. We identify a significant accessibility premium well before the tunnel is completed. There is also a change in market structure of increased preference for residential property in areas closer to the tunnel, reflected by higher price appreciation. The findings help guide urban planning and public investment decisions, as well as the design and implementation of land value capture policy.
From Limestone to Sandstone – Building Stone of Theban Architecture During the Reigns of Hatshepsut and Thutmosis III
Authors: Karlshausen Christina , De Putter Thierry
Published: December 2020

This paper reviews the monuments built in the Theban area during the reigns of Hatshepsut and Thutmosis III, and their stone materials. This period witnessed a shift from limestone to sandstone in the second part of the Hatshepsut coregency with Thutmosis III, when the queen commissioned an ambitious architectural program. In his autonomous reign, Thutmosis III reused limestone in various monuments, possibly to distance himself from the queen’s choices, and to connect his reign with those of their glorious predecessors in the Middle Kingdom (Mentuhotep II at Deir el-Bahari; Senusret III at Medamud) and in the early Eighteenth Dynasty (Thutmosis I and II).
Comparing Driving Cycle Development Methods Based on Markov Chains
Authors: Roy Frédérique , Morency Catherine
Published: December 2020

The transportation sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for 14% of global emissions in 2010 according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. In Quebec, this share amounts to 43%, of which 80% is caused by road transport according to the MinistÉre de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques of QuÅbec. It is therefore essential to support the actions taken to reduce GHGs emissions from this sector and to quantify the impact of these actions. To do so, accurate and reliable emission models are needed. Driving cycles are defined as speed profiles over time and they are a key element of emission models. They represent driving behaviors specific to various road types in each region. The most widely used method to construct driving cycles is based on Markov chains and consists of concatenating small sections of speed profiles, called microtrips, following a transition matrix. Two of the main steps involved in the development of driving cycles are microtrip segmentation and microtrip classification. In this study, several combinations of segmentation and clustering methods are compared to generate the most reliable driving cycle. Results show that segmentation of microtrips with a fixed distance of 250 m and clustering of the microtrips by applying a principal component analysis on many key parameters related to their speed and acceleration provide the most accurate driving cycles.
Officer and Organizational Correlates With Police Interventions in Domestic Violence in China
Authors: Sun Ivan Y. , Wu Yuning , Wang Xiying , Xue Jia
Published: December 2020

Although domestic violence has long been identified as a serious social problem in China, little is known about police officers’ attitudinal and behavioral tendencies toward such incidents. Drawing upon survey data collected from police officers in two Chinese provinces, this study assesses whether officer and organizational factors are correlated to police inaction and intervention in resolving family violence. More than a quarter of Chinese police officers often and sometime did not take any action when responding to domestic violence. Chinese officers favored most the least punitive approaches of mediation and separation, with the most punitive actions, written warning and criminal sanction as the least preferred interventions. We found that Chinese officers with low levels of knowledge about the domestic violence law, higher degrees of tolerance of violence and less supportive attitudes toward an active police role in handling domestic violence are less willing to take any action against the offenders. Chinese police officers who perceived stronger supervisory support and expressed better knowledge about China’s new domestic violence law are more likely to intervene in domestic violence, whereas police officers who expressed greater degrees of tolerance of violence and believed in gender equality in society are less inclined to intervene. Policy makers and police administrators ought to pay greater attention to frontline supervisors’ attitudes and behavior toward proper responses to family violence. If active intervention is preferred, then measures and programs should be put into place to improve police officers’ legal knowledge and communication and problem-solving skills pertaining to conflict resolution.
Coffee or tea? Examining cross-cultural differences in personality nuances across former colonies of the British Empire
Authors: Achaa-Amankwaa Priscilla , Olaru Gabriel , Schroeders Ulrich
Published: December 2020

Cross-cultural comparisons often focus on differences in broad personality traits across countries. However, many cross-cultural studies report differential item functioning which suggests that considerable group differences are not accounted for by the overarching personality factors. We argue that this may reflect cross-cultural personality differences at a lower level of personality, namely personality nuances. To investigate the degree of cultural similarities and differences between participants of 10 English speaking countries (of which nine formerly belonged to the British Empire), we scrutinized participants’ personality scores on the domain, facet, and nuance level of the personality hierarchy. More specifically, we used the responses of 9110 participants on the IPIP-NEO 300-item personality inventory in cross-validated and regularized logistic regressions. Based on the trait domain and facet scores, we were able to identify the country of residence for 60% and 73% of the participants, respectively. By using the nuance level of personality, we correctly identified the nationality of 89% of the participants. This pattern of results explains the lack of measurement invariance in cross-cultural studies. We discuss implications for cross-cultural personality research and whether the high degree of cross-cultural item-level differences compromises the universality of the personality structure.
Training Regimes and Diversity: Experiences of Young Foreign Employees in Japanese Headquarters
Authors: Conrad Harald , Meyer-Ohle Hendrik
Published: December 2020

This article investigates the capacity of Japanese companies to integrate non-Japanese employees into headquarters in Japan, following recent initiatives to recruit significant numbers of foreign fresh graduates from universities in and outside of Japan. Grounding the research in the literature on diversity in workplaces and through an interview study with young foreign employees and representatives from human resource departments, this article argues that the nature of Japanese training regimes, mismatches in expectations between employees and employers and a denial of authenticity inhibit the successful integration of young foreign employees. Based on the Japanese case, we question in general terms the complementarity between diversity and inclusion and different kinds of training regimes. The article also points to the possibility that companies use diversity initiatives instrumentally to develop their existing core labour forces with a view to stabilize rather than fundamentally change the status quo.
Synthesis and comparative analysis of three model-based observers for normal load and friction estimation in intelligent tyre concepts
Authors: Romano Luigi , Strano Salvatore , Terzo Mario
Published: December 2020

Recently, the growing trends towards autonomous driving and full automation of terrestrial vehicles have intensified the need for intelligent and interconnected systems to collect and communicate reliable data in real-time. Since the tyres represent the primary sensing system between the vehicle and the ground, it comes natural to designate them to acquire information about their interaction with the road. Intelligent or smart tyre technologies can, indeed, be used to estimate both vehicle’s performance and environmental conditions, leading to handling, NVH and comfort improvements. Inspired by some encouraging results found in previous works, in this investigation we present three model-based estimators to detect the forces acting in the contact patch for an intelligent tyre. The underlying mathematical foundation is the Flexible Ring Tyre Model (FRM), which is able to describe the in-plane dynamics of intelligent tyre systems. More specifically, it represents the tyre treadband by means of a flexible ring restrained at its mean radius by a viscoelastic foundation. Due to its relatively simplicity, the FRTM allows to obtain a closed-form solution for the treadband displacements, accelerations and circumferential strain, whilst being accurate enough to capture all the relevant phenomena concerning the tyre dynamics. The governing Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) of the system are reduced to a set of coupled Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) by performing the Fourier series expansion. An optimal observer is then designed based on the Unscented Kalman Filter to account for the nonlinearities which arise when the vertical load acting on the tyre and the friction coefficient are included in the augmented state space representation. The three different technologies considered in this study are: strain, displacement, and acceleration-based intelligent tyres. All of them are shown to be capable of estimating the quantities of interest – the actual state of the system, the normal force and the adhesion coefficient – with high accuracy in very short times. Furthermore, the robustness of the proposed approach is validated by considering a step variation in both the vertical load and the available friction. The performances of the observers are finally compared by using the RSS and MSE indices.
Severe pulmonary arterial hypertension and massive ascites in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and secondary Sjogren’s syndrome
Authors: Yucel H , Vollmer O , Canuet M , Enache I , Kessler R , Korganow A S , Riou M
Published: December 2020

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), is a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), characterized by pulmonary arterial remodeling leading to right ventricular failure and death. To date, optimal management of SLE-associated PAH should be clarified, especially regarding the respective places of immunosuppressants and PAH vasodilator treatments.

Case report

We report the case of a 48-year-old woman with SLE and secondary Sjogren syndrome, associated with severe PAH and lupus peritonitis with massive ascites, who showed a remarkable response, both for SLE flare and PAH, to a treatment combining immunosuppressants and pulmonary arterial vasodilator treatment.

Conclusion

This observation highlights the interest of combining immunosuppressive therapy in SLE-PAH, whose modalities in association with PAH treatments should be clarified.
Evaluation of Factors That Affect Venture Capital Investment: Evidence from India
Authors: Gupta Richa , Shukla Abha
Published: December 2020

India has become one of the major recipients of venture capital (VC) in the last decade. It is important to understand if the factors that have played an important role in influencing the VC investment in developed countries are of relevance in the context of developing countries as well. The purpose of the study is to explore the various dimensions of VC investments in India with respect to factors such as industry of investment, stage of investment, round of investment, stake acquired, geographical location, syndication, investor type, etc. and their impact on the amount of investment. A descriptive and empirical research has been carried out using VC investment deals in India during the period from 1st January, 2004 to 31st October, 2016. It is found that the amount of investment by a VC fund in an undertaking is primarily influenced by the stage of investment and the stake acquired. Investor type and industry are also found to have a significant effect on the funding amount. While economic growth and market index are found to have a very small effect on the amount of VC funding, geographical location and syndication donot seem to have any effect on the amount invested.
Determinants of User Satisfaction and the Implications on Collective Action in Demand-driven Water Governance in Rural Uganda
Authors: Naiga Resty
Published: December 2020

The devolution of water management from the state to user communities is usually based on the assumption that users are able and willing to take on the necessary responsibilities. Despite over a decade of implementing a demand-driven approach in rural water provision in Uganda, operation and maintenance of communal water infrastructure is still an uphill task. Using a mixed methods approach and a socio-ecological systems framework, this article shows the relationship between water user satisfaction and willingness to engage in collective action towards water provision. The article further presents factors influencing water users’ satisfaction under the demand-driven model of water governance. The results indicate a highly significant relationship between user satisfaction and willingness to contribute to operation and maintenance of water infrastructure. The explanatory variables influencing users’ satisfaction with water provision are categorised as institutional and biophysical factors. The analysis indicates that collective action is key for successful implementation of demand-driven model of water governance, but it cannot be assumed or taken for granted. Rather, it must be facilitated through fulfilling the needs and expectations of the beneficiaries as well as building robust self-governance local institutions.
Loosening the GRIP (Gender Roles Inhibiting Prosociality) to Promote Gender Equality
Authors: Croft Alyssa , Atkinson Ciara , Sandstrom Gillian , Orbell Sheina , Aknin Lara
Published: December 2020

Prosociality is an ideal context to begin shifting traditional gender role stereotypes and promoting equality. Men and women both help others frequently, but assistance often follows traditional gender role expectations, which further reinforces restrictive gender stereotypes in other domains. We propose an integrative process model of gender roles inhibiting prosociality (GRIP) to explain why and how this occurs. We argue that prosociality provides a unique entry point for change because it is (a) immediately rewarding (which cultivates positive attitude formation), (b) less likely to threaten the gender status hierarchy, and therefore less susceptible to social backlash (which translates into less restrictive social norms), and (c) a skill that can be learned (which leads to stronger beliefs in one’s own ability to help). Using the GRIP model, we derive a series of hypothesized interventions to interrupt the self-reinforcing cycle of gender role stereotyping and facilitate progress toward broader gender equality.
Ceramic-on-metal bearing in short stem total hip arthroplasty: ions, functional and radiographic evaluation at mid-term follow-up
Authors: Saracco Michela , Maccauro Giulio , Urbani Andrea , Ciavardelli Domenico , Persichilli Silvia , Ancillai Giulio , Pasqualetti Patrizio , Calvisi Vittorio , Logroscino Giandomenico
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

The aim of this study is to evaluate clinical, radiographic and laboratory results of ceramic-on-metal (CoM) (hybrid hard bearing) in total hip arthroplasty (THA), associated with a short stem implant.

Methods:

From a cohort of 37 patients suffering from primary or secondary hip osteoarthritis who underwent THA using CoM bearing, 19 were suitable for this study. All procedures were performed by the same surgeon using a posterior-lateral approach. All patients were compared clinically using the Harris Hip Score (HHS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), visual analogue scale (VAS), 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF12F/M), and radiographically (offset, CD angle, limb length discrepancy, cup inclination and anteversion, subsidence, osseointegration, heterotopic ossification). Blood samples were collected in order to evaluate chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) ions level. Radiographic evaluations were carried out by 3 different blinded surgeons. A statistical analysis was performed.

Results:

At a mean follow-up of 97 (73–125) months all implanted stems were well-positioned and osseointegrated. Clear improvements were observed for clinical scores comparing preoperative and postoperative values. Radiographic evaluation showed a good ability to restore proper articular geometry. Cr ion analysis revealed values below the safety threshold except for 1 case. Serum levels of Co were below the threshold in all patients. There was a statistically significant correlation only between Cr metal ions and length of follow-up.

Conclusions:

CoM bearing has proven to be reliable and safe at a mean 8-year follow-up for patients in whom the components were correctly implanted. The rise of blood metal ions was minimal and involved neither systemic or local toxicity nor influenced clinical results.
The management of Vancouver B1 and C periprosthetic fractures: radiographic and clinic outcomes of a monocentric consecutive series
Authors: Ciriello Vincenzo , Chiarpenello Roberto , Tomarchio Alessandro , Marra Francesco , Egidio Antonio Carmine , Piovani Lucio
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

Periprosthetic fractures (PFs) are a main complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA), with rising incidence. The optimal treatment of PFs is still being debated in the literature. Historically, high failure and reoperation rates are reported, although the introduction of locking plates has led to improved results. In this study we report clinical and radiographic outcomes of a consecutive series of Vancouver B1 and C fractures, treated with a novel type of locking plate. We also aim to identify the variables associated with healing time.

Methods:

Between June 2013 and May 2019, 47 patients were consecutively admitted to the Emergency Department of our Hospital with a diagnosis of PF around a well-fixed THA stem. 31 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. All patients underwent osteosynthesis with a novel type of plate (“Ironlady” Intrauma, Rivoli, Italy) through a distally extended posterolateral approach. All surgical procedures were performed with the aim of reducing the rigidity of the fixation construct and preserving periosteal vitality. Demographic data, type of fracture, type of stem and its fixation, surgical details, and clinical and radiographical outcomes were recorded. Each variable was investigated to assess its relationship with fracture healing and healing time.

Results:

31 patients were included in the study. 4 patients died before the minimum follow-up of 6 months and were excluded from the series. The final sample consisted of 27 patients. Their median age at operation was 84.8 years (range 65.3–95.4 years); 21 were female. The median follow-up after surgery was 2.36 years (range 6 months–4.7 years). In the cohort there were 22 type Vancouver B1 fractures (81.5%) and 5 type C (18.5%). All fractures occurred postoperatively (no acute intraoperative fractures). Fracture union was achieved in 26 patients (96.3%). The following variables were found to be associated with increased healing time: Vancouver type of fracture, pattern of Vancouver B1 fracture type, age and male gender.

Conclusions:

On the base of our results, the management of Vancouver B1 and C type of PFs by locking plate osteosynthesis appears to be a safe and effective procedure. To enhance healing and reduce complication rate, accurate surgical technique is required, aiming to implement the proximal fixation, avoid stress rising, reduce rigidity of the osteosynthesis construct and preserve the plate-to-bone gap.
Multifocal visual evoked potential evaluation for diagnosis of acute optic neuritis and for prediction of visual outcome and ganglion cell layer thinning following optic neuritis
Authors: Pihl-Jensen Gorm , Wanscher Benedikte , Frederiksen Jette Lautrup
Published: December 2020

Background::

While damage to the optic nerve following optic neuritis (ON) is readily quantifiable, the evaluation of prognosis for visual function and neuroaxonal loss in the acute ON is challenging.

Objective::

The objective of this study is to investigate the value of multifocal visual evoked potential (mfVEP) in acute ON, diagnostically for acute ON and prognostically for visual outcome and subsequent ganglion cell/inner plexiform layer thickness (GCLIPLt).

Methods::

A prospective cohort study of mfVEP and full-field visual evoked potential (ffVEP) in acute, unilateral ON (onset < 31 days) was conducted. Comparisons with healthy controls ( n = 30) and association analysis with follow-up optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements (of the GCLIPLt) and visual function (Sloan low-contrast visual acuity (LCVA)) were conducted.

Results::

Seventy-nine ON patients were included (mean: 17 days from onset). Excluding measurements with conduction block, ffVEP ( n = 54) and mfVEP ( n = 44) showed sensitivities of 89% and 84% to a specificity of 97%. 65/79 patients were re-examined (mean: 200 days follow-up). mfVEP amplitude and latency inter-eye asymmetry in acute ON correlated with GCLIPLt ( r = 0.587 and Spearman’s ρ = 0.597, for both, p < 0.001). mfVEP amplitude correlated with LCVA inter-eye asymmetry at follow-up ( r = 0.421, p < 0.001), mfVEP latency did not.

Conclusion:

mfVEP may support the prognostic evaluation of acute ON patients and prove valuable in future neuroprotective and remyelinating trials. In acute ON, the increase in diagnostic value of mfVEP to ffVEP may be limited due to widespread conduction block.
Presidential inauguration tourism and hotel occupancy: Evidence from the Obama and Trump inaugurals
Authors: Collins Clay , Hall Joshua C
Published: December 2020

This article examines the impact of the inaugurations of Barack Obama and Donald Trump on hotel occupancy in the Washington DC metro area. Using daily hotel data from 2010 to 2020 and controlling for multiple other major events along with day, week, and year fixed effects, we find substantial effects of presidential inaugurations on hotel occupancy. Daily occupancy rates around the inaugurations are four to six times higher than the next largest event in our sample. We also find evidence that inaugurations are multiple-day tourist events, with hotel occupancy rates seeing positive leads and lags. We find little difference in overall hotel occupancy impacts between the Obama and the Trump inaugurations, although the pattern differs due to the differences when in the week they occurred. Unfortunately, our results cannot separate the effect of the Women’s March on Washington from the Trump inauguration.
Down-speeding diesel engines with two-stage turbochargers: Analysis and control considerations
Authors: Mirza-Hekmati Daryoush , Heath William P , Apsley Judith M , Forbes James R
Published: December 2020

Diesel engines continue to be used in truck applications, so reducing fuel use and hence CO2 emissions, is a priority. Single-stage turbocharged diesel engines are known to be fuel efficient under steady load at low speeds. However, the engine’s ability to track load transients becomes limited by emission constraints due to the rate of production values for smoke and the resulting higher nitrogen oxides (NO x). Modern air-path solutions including a variable geometry turbine (VGT) and high pressure exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) can be used to improve dynamic response without increasing NO x emissions, but lead to complex interactions that can be difficult to control. This paper develops a two-stage, in-series, air-path configuration, which improves the typical part-load performance at low engine-speeds through adjustments to the turbine expansion ratios. Better EGR rates (for NO x reduction) at low engine speeds can be achieved whilst the engine transient response is maintained. The air-path system is simulated using Ricardo Wave software and analysed for steady-state and transient behaviour in order to identify the relationships, constraints and performance measures for different operating regions that specify the controller requirements.
Clarifying the Ideological Asymmetry in Public Attitudes Toward Political Protest
Authors: Barker David , Nalder Kimberly , Newham Jessica
Published: December 2020

Political protests cannot succeed without public support. Extant studies point to weaker average support among ideological conservatives, but researchers have yet to consider the extent to which such apparent ideological asymmetry is (a) an artifact of the particular protest cases that researchers have tended to investigate, and/or (b) conditioned by the precise meaning of “ideological conservatism.” In this investigation, we address these gaps. Specifically, we analyze public perceptions of protest legitimacy after exposing survey respondents to one of a series of experimental treatments that randomize the specific ideological and issue contents of the particular protests under consideration. In iterative models, we observe how political ideology, social dominance orientation and authoritarianism condition the effects associated with these experimental treatments. The data suggest that that the notorious ideological asymmetry that is often associated with support for protests is authentic, but it is also conditioned in important ways by these other factors.
What’s in a Realist Configuration? Deciding Which Causal Configurations to Use, How, and Why
Authors: De Weger E. , Van Vooren N. J. E. , Wong G. , Dalkin S. , Marchal B. , Drewes H. W. , Baan C. A.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Realist studies represent an increasingly popular approach for exploring complex interventions’ successes and failures. The theory-driven approach seeks to explain “what works, how, why, in which contexts, for whom, and to what extent” using context–mechanism–outcome (CMO) configurations. When the approach was first developed, CMO configurations were the method for expressing causal explanations. Increasingly, realist studies have been conducted using different variations of the heuristic such as strategy–context–mechanism–outcome (SCMO) configurations or intervention–context–actor–mechanism–outcome (ICAMO) configurations. Researchers have highlighted a lack of methodological guidance regarding which additional explanatory factors can be included in configurations (e.g., strategies, interventions, actors). This article aims to clarify and further develop the concept of configurations by discussing how explanatory factors could be robustly added to the original CMO configuration as put forward by Pawson and Tilley.

Comparing the use of different types of configurations:

We draw on two of our own studies, one which formulated CMO configurations and one which formulated SCMO configurations, and on an evidence scan of realist studies. We explored the effects these different configurations had on studies’ findings and highlight why researchers chose CMOs or SCMOs. Finally, we provide recommendations regarding the use of configurations. These are as follows: Using additional explanatory factors is possible but consider the research scope to select the configuration appropriate for the study; Be transparent about the choice in configuration and include examples of configurations; Further studies about the use of additional explanatory factors are needed to better understand the effects on each step in the realist evaluation cycle; and New ways of disseminating realist findings are needed to balance transparency regarding the use of configurations.

Conclusions:

Adding explanatory factors is possible and can be insightful depending on the study’s scope and aims; however, any configuration type must adhere to the rule of generative causation.
Governmental and public thematic patterns on vaccination during a measles outbreak: the Romanian perspective
Authors: Cmeciu Camelia , Coman Ioana
Published: December 2020

With 675 confirmed cases of measles in Romania in September 2016, the Ministry of Health launched the online campaign called ‘Vaccines Save Lives’. This study seeks to apply the Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs to the online communication among the Romanian Ministry of Health and online users throughout this vaccination campaign. Using a mixed-method approach, we demonstrate how cluster analysis can help in visualizing the overall relationship among codes (HBM constructs) in the thematic interpretation related to vaccination. Results of the cluster analysis show that the Romanian Ministry of Health used three main themes (shaping credibility, reality versus conspiracy, and unbiased information). Focusing on the diseases that vaccinations could prevent, the Romanian authority also addressed the issues related to conspiracy theory, the possible side effects, and collateral victims if parents refuse to vaccinate their children. The online users’ comments were structured on two themes: multi-faceted reluctance and vaccination gain. Despite the anti-vaccination comments and anti-work-related content directed toward the campaign and the Ministry of Health, there were pro-vaccination comments in which online users encouraged parents to report cases of side effects and accused them of using their personal stories to provoke vaccination hesitancy. These findings may provide important information to (inter)national communication practitioners who design and implement health campaigns to increase vaccination rates.
‘A cry in the dark’: a qualitative exploration of living with cluster headache
Authors: Andre Laura , Cavers Debbie
Published: December 2020

Context:

Cluster headache is a rare primary headache disorder said to be one of the most painful conditions in existence. Limited evidence demonstrates cluster headache patients have difficulties securing a diagnosis and poor access to services. There is a gap in research around psychosocial needs, meaning there are no evidence-based guidelines to inform optimal management of this patient group in primary care.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to explore the perspectives of cluster headache patients in the United Kingdom in order to suggest ways their care can be improved.

Methods:

It is an in-depth qualitative study involving telephone interviews with 15 participants with either chronic or episodic cluster headache. Semi-structured interviews (43–58 minutes) were conducted, recorded and transcribed verbatim. Two researchers conducted thematic analysis to identify themes.

Results:

Participants described the impact cluster headache has on their quality of life. They also felt the legitimacy of their disorder was questioned. This situation was often exacerbated by a reported lack of awareness among General Practitioners (GPs), which negatively impacted their care in terms of diagnosis and access to treatments and specialists. They attempted to control the pain through treatments and avoiding triggers, often with detrimental consequences for their social contact and mental health.

Conclusion:

Findings indicate the need to improve the lived experience of cluster headache patients in two key areas: (1) raising awareness of the disorder and its impact among GPs, and (2) extending care beyond clinical treatment provision, supporting patients in self-management and addressing its psychosocial impact, with implications for the management of this group in primary care.
Virtual Laboratory: A Boon to the Mechanical Engineering Education During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kapilan N. , Vidhya P. , Gao Xiao-Zhi
Published: December 2020

The engineering students understand the engineering concepts effectively when they conduct the experiments in the laboratory. Hence, laboratory is as important as theory; however, the ill-equipped laboratory facilities affect the students’ learnability. The virtual laboratories may help the students overcome the problems faced by them in the conventional laboratory. In India, educational activities during the middle of the semester were affected due to lockdown related to COVID-19. However, the theory classes were conducted online, and educational institutions are finding it difficult to complete the laboratory experiments due to closure of colleges for the students due to COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, we have conducted a faculty development programme for the engineering college faculty members on mechanical engineering virtual laboratories. Similarly, we have trained the mechanical engineering students on fluid mechanics virtual laboratory. We have taken feedback from the participants of these virtual laboratory training programme and analysed it. From the analysis we have observed that more than 90 per cent of the participants were happy about the virtual laboratory and they expressed that their learning process improved with virtual laboratory experiments. Also, they felt that the virtual laboratories can be used till the COVID-19 pandemic issues are solved. Since the vaccine for COVID-19 is not available yet, the virtual laboratories will help the mechanical engineering students to conduct the laboratory experiments for the academic year 2020–2021.
Measurement Schmeasurement: Questionable Measurement Practices and How to Avoid Them
Authors: Flake Jessica Kay , Fried Eiko I.
Published: December 2020

In this article, we define questionable measurement practices (QMPs) as decisions researchers make that raise doubts about the validity of the measures, and ultimately the validity of study conclusions. Doubts arise for a host of reasons, including a lack of transparency, ignorance, negligence, or misrepresentation of the evidence. We describe the scope of the problem and focus on how transparency is a part of the solution. A lack of measurement transparency makes it impossible to evaluate potential threats to internal, external, statistical-conclusion, and construct validity. We demonstrate that psychology is plagued by a measurement schmeasurement attitude: QMPs are common, hide a stunning source of researcher degrees of freedom, and pose a serious threat to cumulative psychological science, but are largely ignored. We address these challenges by providing a set of questions that researchers and consumers of scientific research can consider to identify and avoid QMPs. Transparent answers to these measurement questions promote rigorous research, allow for thorough evaluations of a study’s inferences, and are necessary for meaningful replication studies.
Urgent hyperbaric oxygen therapy for suicidal carbon monoxide poisoning: from a preliminary survey to a proposal for an integrated somatic-psychiatric protocol
Authors: Costanza Alessandra , Ambrosetti Julia , Spagnoli Philippe , Amerio Andrea , Aguglia Andrea , Serafini Gianluca , Amore Mario , Bondolfi Guido , Sarasin François , Pignel Rodrigue
Published: December 2020

A considerable number of patients who made a carbon monoxide (CO) suicidal attempt are treated with urgent hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). For these patients at potential persistent risk of suicide, the hyperbaric chamber is a dangerous environment and their management a complex challenge for the Emergency Department (ED) and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit (UMH) teams. We aimed to (1) identify cases of intentional CO poisoning treated with urgent HBOT in the UMH of the University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG) during 2011–2018 and (2) test a proposed operational and integrated somatic-psychiatric protocol based on acquired experience. A total of 311 patients with CO poisoning were treated using urgent HBOT, for which poisoning was assumed suicidal in 40 patients (12.9%). This percentage appears greater than in other European countries. Both the excess of cases of intentional CO poisonings and difficulties encountered in their management resulted in the implementation of an operational and integrated somatic-psychiatric protocol addressing the entire patient’s clinical trajectory, from the admission at ED-HUG to the treatment at the UMH-HUG. The established institutional protocol includes (1) clinical evaluation, (2) suicide risk assessment, and (3) safety measures. This is the first report—at our best knowledge—of a protocol detailing a practical procedure algorithm and focusing on multidisciplinary and mutual collaboration between the medical-nursing teams at the ED, psychiatric ED, and UMH. Improvements in patient’s safety and care team’s sense of security were observed. In conclusion, the opportunity to refer to a standardized protocol was beneficial in that it offers both reduced risks for suicidal patients and reduced stress for care teams operating in very acute and complex situations. Further studies are needed.
Identification of a quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with ammonia tolerance in the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Zeng Digang , Yang Chunling , Li Qiangyong , Zhu Weilin , Chen Xiuli , Peng Min , Chen Xiaohan , Lin Yong , Wang Huanling , Liu Hong , Liang Jingzhen , Liu Qingyun , Zhao Yongzhen
Published: December 2020

Background

Ammonia is one of the most common toxicological environment factors affecting shrimp health. Although ammonia tolerance in shrimp is closely related to successful industrial production, few genetic studies of this trait are available.

Results

In this study, we constructed a high-density genetic map of the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) using specific length amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq). The constructed genetic map contained 17,338 polymorphic markers spanning 44 linkage groups, with a total distance of 6360.12 centimorgans (cM) and an average distance of 0.37 cM. Using this genetic map, we identified a quantitative trait locus (QTL) that explained 7.41–8.46% of the phenotypic variance inL. vannameisurvival time under acute ammonia stress. We then sequenced the transcriptomes of the most ammonia-tolerant and the most ammonia-sensitive individuals from each of four genetically distinctL. vannameifamilies. We found that 7546 genes were differentially expressed between the ammonia-tolerant and ammonia-sensitive individuals. Using QTL analysis and the transcriptomes, we identified one candidate gene (annotated as an ATP synthase g subunit) associated with ammonia tolerance.

Conclusions

In this study, we constructed a high-density genetic map ofL. vannameiand identified a QTL for ammonia tolerance. By combining QTL and transcriptome analyses, we identified a candidate gene associated with ammonia tolerance. Our work provides the basis for future genetic studies focused on molecular marker-assisted selective breeding.
Comparison of factor XII levels in gestational diabetes, fetal macrosomia, and healthy pregnancies
Authors: Ozbasli Esra , Takmaz Ozguc , Karabuk Emine , Gungor Mete
Published: December 2020

Background

If not detected and treated, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can cause serious pregnancy complications such as macrosomia, preeclampsia, and fetal/neonatal mortality. Many studies have examined underlying contributing factors for GDM, including hypercoagulation. Factor XII (FXII) is a coagulation factor that increases throughout normal pregnancies, and we evaluated the relationship of GDM with FXII, FXIIa (activated FXII), and other coagulation parameter levels. GDM and macrosomia are closely related, but it is not known whether FXII could be an independent causal factor for macrosomia.

Methods

In this prospective study, blood samples were taken from 69 pregnant women at the time of term delivery to determine levels of FXII, FXIIa, and other coagulation parameters. Based on the results, pregnancies fell into GDM, non-diabetic with macrosomia (M), or healthy (C [control]).

Results

FXII concentration levels were significantly higher in GDM patients compared with the M and C groups. There were no significant differences when comparing FXIIa, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time (PT), and international normalized ratio. The GDM group saw a significant negative correlation between FXII concentrations and maternal pregestational body mass index (BMI) and BMI before delivery. In the M group, a positive correlation was observed between FXII concentrations and newborn weight and newborn weight percentile.

Conclusions

An increase in FXII levels was observed in patients with gestational diabetes. Associations between coagulation parameters and GDM should be further analyzed to define the mechanisms of GDM and possible treatment modalities.

Trial registration

Our study has been registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03583216). Registered on July 11, 2018,