bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Copytus Skogsberg, 1939 (Crustacea: Ostracoda) a neocytherideid?
With description of a new family and two new species
Authors: COIMBRA JOÃO CARLOS , BERGUE CRISTIANINI TRESCASTRO , RAMOS MARIA INÊS FEIJÓ
Published: January 2020

The genus Copytus Skogsberg, 1939 was erected based on C. caligula, recovered from bottom sediments of the South Georgia Island, Antarctica. However, we propose herein that Skogsberg’s species is a junior synonym of Cytherideis laevata Brady, 1880 also collected from Antarctica and, therefore, Copytus laevata (Brady, 1880) becomes the type species. The position of the genus Copytus in the family Neocytherideidae is discussed, and a new family is proposed. In addition, we consider the genus Neocopytus Külköylüoðlu, Colin & Kiliç, 2007 invalid, and some of its species are transferred to Copytus. Finally, two new species of Copytus are herein described, C. cuspidata sp. nov. and C. wuerdigae sp. nov., and their geographic, bathymetric and stratigraphic distributions are discussed.
On the Time Evolution of the Arctic Oscillation and Related Wintertime Phenomena under Different Forcing Scenarios in an Ensemble Approach
Authors: Haszpra Tímea , Topál Dániel , Herein Mátyás
Published: January 2020

The Arctic Oscillation (AO) and its related wintertime phenomena are investigated under climate change by 2099 in an ensemble approach using the CESM1 Large Ensemble and the MPI-ESM Grand Ensemble with different RCP scenarios. The loading pattern of the AO is defined as the leading mode of the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of sea level pressure from 20° to 90°N. It is shown that the traditional AO index (AOI) calculation method, using a base period in a single climate realization, brings subjectivity to the investigation of the AO-related phenomena. Therefore, if an ensemble is available, the changes in the AO and its related phenomena should rather be studied by a reconsidered EOF analysis (snapshot EOF) introduced herein. This novel method is based only on the instantaneous fields of the ensemble, and hence it is capable of monitoring the time evolution of the AO’s pattern and amplitude. Furthermore, the instantaneous correlation coefficientrcan objectively be calculated between the AOI and, for example, the surface temperature, and thus the time dependence of the strength of these connections can also be revealed. Results emphasize that both the AO and the related surface temperature pattern are nonstationary and their time evolution depends on the forcing. The AO’s amplitude increases and the Pacific center strengthens considerably in each scenario. Additionally, there exist such regions (e.g., northern Europe or western North America) wherershows remarkable change (0.2–0.4) by 2099. This study emphasizes the importance of the snapshot framework when studying changes in the climate system.
Eyes of the Storm: How Citizen Scientists Contribute to Government Forecasting and Risk Communication
Authors: Liu Brooke Fisher , Seate Anita Atwell , Iles Irina , Herovic Emina
Published: January 2020

Since the 1970s, the National Weather Service has trained citizens to collect, confirm, verify, or supplement radar and other data to contribute to a weather-ready nation. This study examines citizens who volunteer as weather spotters through a case study of an award-winning network. We uncover what motivates citizens to become involved in government science projects. Through the lens of relationship management theory and the related network approach, the study provides some of the first evidence on the benefits and drawbacks of citizens serving as amateur scientists and risk communicators and how these citizen scientists sustain their relationships with government scientists.
Evaluation of a Simple Weight-Based Screening Tool for Asymptomatic Neonatal Hypoglycemia
Authors: Deal Stephanie B. , Maldonado Ursula , Hagan Joseph L. , Garcia-Prats Joseph A.
Published: January 2020

The objective of this study was to determine if the use of weight-based criteria to screen for asymptomatic hypoglycemia is consistent with using percentile curves to determine small and large for gestational age status. A retrospective chart review of 892 term infants in the normal nursery was performed. The degree of agreement in screening recommendations between weight-based criteria and the Lubchenco, Oken, and Olsen percentile curves was determined using Cohen’s κ and McNemar’s test. Agreement was lower between Lubchenco and Olsen or Oken (0.470, 0.509, respectively) than with weight-based criteria (Lubchenko = 0.532; Oken = 0.566; and Olsen = 0.582). Weight-based criteria recommended screening 12% and 7% fewer patients than Lubchenko and Oken, respectively ( P < .001), but was equally likely to screen infants as Olsen ( P = .579). Simple weight-based criteria for asymptomatic hypoglycemia screening can identify infants at risk for hypoglycemia in a manner consistent with current guidelines.
Can Difficulties in Language Acquisition and Specific Learning Disabilities Be Separated Among English Learners?
Authors: Swanson H. Lee , Kong Jennifer , Petcu Stefania D. , Asencio Pimentel Monica Fiorella
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the prevalence of latent classes at risk for reading or math disabilities in elementary-age children whose first language is Spanish. To this end, children ( N = 394) in Grades 1, 2, and 3 were administered a battery of vocabulary, reading, math, and cognitive measures in both Spanish and English. Three important findings occurred. First, five latent classes emerged (average achievers, poor achievers, reading disabled, English language learners, Spanish-dominant achievers) that varied in language and achievement scores. Second, probability estimates indicated that 10% of the total sample was at risk for learning disabilities (below cutoff score), and approximately 40% of the sample reflected a language acquisition group not at risk for academic difficulties. Finally, the best model for correctly predicting the odds of latent classes differing from average achievers included English measures of short-term memory, naming speed, and the executive component of working memory. The results support the notion that statistically distinct latent classes emerge under the umbrella of children identified as English learners and that children at risk for specific learning disabilities can be separated among a heterogeneous sample of children who are acquiring English as a second language.
Composite spirals and rings under flexural loading: Experimental and numerical analysis
Authors: Tonatto Maikson LP , Tita Volnei , Amico Sandro C
Published: January 2020

Recent improvements in pultrusion and filament winding have allowed the manufacturing of spirals and rings composite profiles for applications such as fuselage reinforcements of small aircrafts, automotive bumper beams, automotive springs and structural reinforcement for pipes. However, the behavior of curved carbon fiber components is complex and hard to predict, and still demands deeper understanding. In this work, progressive damage and cohesive zone numerical models were used to simulate the behavior of unidirectional curved composite structures under flexural loading. Four-point bending tests were carried out on curved samples monitored by strain gages for model validation. The results have demonstrated a strong influence of delamination on samples with well-defined resin-rich areas. In contrast, curved structures with more homogeneous fiber distribution, i.e. those manufactured by curved pultrusion, showed increased flexural strength. Maximum stresses from numerical and experimental analyses were compared and the maximum difference found was below 3.5%.
Comparisons of cyclic fatigue hysteresis between C/SiC and SiC/SiC ceramic–matrix composites with different fiber preforms at room and elevated temperatures
Authors: Longbiao Li
Published: January 2020

In this paper, the cyclic fatigue hysteresis of carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide (C/SiC) and SiC/SiC ceramic–matrix composites with different fiber preforms at room and elevated temperatures is investigated. The evolution of fatigue hysteresis dissipated energy versus applied cycle number for unidirectional C/SiC ( σmax = 240 MPa at room temperature and σmax = 250 MPa at 800℃ in air atmosphere), cross-ply C/SiC ( σmax = 105 MPa at room temperature and 800℃ in air atmosphere), 2D C/SiC ( σmax = 387 and 425 MPa at room temperature), 2.5D C/SiC ( σmax = 180 MPa at room temperature, σmax = 140 MPa at 800℃ in air atmosphere, and σmax = 230 MPa at 600℃ in inert atmosphere), 2D SiC/SiC ( σmax = 130 MPa at 600℃, 800℃, and 1000℃ in inert atmosphere, σmax = 80 MPa at 1000℃ in air atmosphere, σmax = 100 MPa at 1000℃ in steam atmosphere, σmax = 140 MPa at 1200℃ in air and in steam atmospheres, σmax = 90, 120 MPa at 1300℃ in air atmosphere), and 3D SiC/SiC ( σmax = 100 MPa at 1300℃ in air atmosphere) is analyzed. The change rate of the fatigue hysteresis dissipated energy between C/SiC and SiC/SiC composites is compared. The fatigue hysteresis dissipated energy decreases with applied cycle number for unidirectional, and cross-ply C/SiC composite at 800℃ in air, and 2.5D C/SiC composite at 600℃ in inert; and the fatigue hysteresis dissipated energy increases with applied cycle number for 2.5D C/SiC composite at 800℃ in air, 2D SiC/SiC composite at 600℃, and 800℃ in inert.
“Educate Your Heart Before Your Mind”: The Counter-Narratives of One African American Female Teacher’s Asset-, Equity- and Justice-Oriented Pedagogy in One Urban School
Authors: Zhu Gang
Published: January 2020

This article narrates one African American female teacher’s asset-, equity-, and justice-oriented pedagogy with foci on culturally responsive pedagogy and authentic caring in teaching in an urban school from the joint perspectives of community cultural wealth, funds of knowledge, and funds of identity. Drawing upon humanizing counter-narrative research methodologies, this article foregrounds traditionally oppressed groups’ repressed voices concerning culturally responsive pedagogy and authentic caring for improving culturally and linguistically diverse students’ academic achievements. These findings show how culturally responsive pedagogy can facilitate students’ learning cognitively, culturally, and politically. Furthermore, this research illustrates how authentic caring—the supportive reciprocal rapport between teachers and students—helps to increases the students’ academic achievement but also fosters teachers’ implementation of the asset-, equity-, and justice-oriented pedagogy. Finally, the implications for facilitating urban school teachers’ asset-, equity-, and justice-oriented pedagogies and the praxis for critical transformative pedagogy are discussed.
Foreigners as gentrifiers and tourists in a Mexican historic district
Authors: Navarrete Escobedo David
Published: January 2020

Transnational gentrification has become a key element of urban and sociocultural transformations in several Latin American countries. New urban policies and transnational real estate markets adapt the city in order to respond to the expectations of transnational middle classes. This paper explores the case of San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. Methodologically, it adopts a qualitative approach and analyses two of the most important manifestations of transnational gentrification: lifestyle migration and luxury tourism. Historical files on protected buildings in San Miguel de Allende’s historic centre were used to observe functional alterations. This is supplemented with other statistical data (including the spatial pattern of Airbnb rentals) and direct observations of public spaces. I propose that transnational gentrification leads to a heritage-led transnationalisation of real estate, evidenced by luxury housing, boutique hotels, art galleries and other high culture spaces that cater to higher-income lifestyle migrants and tourists. As a result, the new class of owners and users changes the place’s identity, which has implications for lower-income groups’ right to the city. The process in San Miguel de Allende is analogous to processes in cities such as London, New York or Paris, where notions of heritage urbanism have also helped transnationalise local real estate markets. However, it also evinces other processes that are more difficult to appreciate in the Global North (growing rent gaps, real estate companies’ aggressive pursuit of gentrification and deep historical inequalities that are exacerbated by heritage-led gentrification).
Association of low urine pH as a metabolic feature with abdominal obesity
Authors: Lee Juyoung , Chang Hee Kyung , Lee Sanghun
Published: January 2020

Objective

Low urine pH (LUP) is not only affected by environmental factors, but is also a feature of metabolic syndrome (MS), which is characterized by insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, dyslipidaemia and hypertension. However, it is unclear which factors contribute most to urine acidity. This study investigated factors influencing LUP and the link between LUP and metabolic traits in South Korea.

Methods

Participants were middle-aged subjects (age, 52.2 ± 8.9 years; average body mass index, 24.6 ± 3.2 kg/m2), of whom 4,626 had urine pH of 5.0 and were assigned to the LUP group and 4,185 had urine pH > 5.0 and were assigned to the control group. The association between LUP and various phenotypes, including environmental and metabolic traits, was analysed.

Results

LUP was significantly associated with MS diagnostic components and with environmental exposures such as smoking, alcohol intake and low-fibre diet. Multivariate analysis showed that the waist-to-hip ratio was the best predictor for LUP compared with other MS components (OR: 2.439).

Conclusions

LUP is an indicator of MS and is mainly related to the MS diagnostic criterion of abdominal obesity, even after adjusting for environmental influences on urine acidity.
Performance Test of Autonomous Vehicle Lidar Sensors Under Different Weather Conditions
Authors: Tang Li , Shi Yunpeng , He Qing , Sadek Adel W. , Qiao Chunming
Published: January 2020

This paper intends to analyze the Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar) sensor performance on detecting pedestrians under different weather conditions. Lidar sensor is the key sensor in autonomous vehicles, which can provide high-resolution object information. Thus, it is important to analyze the performance of Lidar. This paper involves an autonomous bus operating several pedestrian detection tests in a parking lot at the University at Buffalo. By comparing the pedestrian detection results on rainy days with the results on sunny days, the evidence shows that the rain can cause unstable performance and even failures of Lidar sensors to detect pedestrians in time. After analyzing the test data, three logit models are built to estimate the probability of Lidar detection failure. The rainy weather still plays an important role in affecting Lidar detection performance. Moreover, the distance between a vehicle and a pedestrian, as well as the autonomous vehicle velocity, are also important. This paper can provide a way to improve the Lidar detection performance in autonomous vehicles.
Laboratory Investigation of the Adhesion and Self-Healing Properties of High-Viscosity Modified Asphalt Binders
Authors: Hu Mingjun , Sun Daquan , Lu Tong , Ma Jianmin , Yu Fan
Published: January 2020

Water damage often occurs on porous asphalt pavement during service life because of the well-developed pore structure. Determining the adhesion and adhesion healing properties of high-viscosity modified asphalt (HVMA) under water condition is beneficial to understand the water damage process of porous asphalt. In this study, the modified binder bond strength test was first conducted to investigate the adhesion property and self-healing behavior of HVMA at different conditions. Then, the surface energy test was carried out to further characterize the differences in adhesion property of HVMA. Moreover, the gel permeation chromatography test and fluorescence microscopic test were used to investigate the influence of chemical composition and polymer morphology on the adhesion property of HVMA. Results show that the presence of water reduces the adhesion property of HVMA. The addition of polymers leads to an increasing adhesion strength and a decreasing self-healing ability of HVMA. The self-healing ability of HVMA improves with the increase of temperature, but also shows a decreased trend when the healing time is long at high-temperature water immersion. The effect of polymers on the adhesion property of asphalt has two aspects. First, the swelling of polymers leads to an increasing content of polar heavy components in HVMA, thus enhancing polarity adsorption between asphalt and aggregate. Moreover, a polymer-centered interfacial diffusion layer can be formed during the adsorption of light components, which increases the overlapping area of structural asphalt between adjacent aggregates. This can also improve the adhesion property at the asphalt–aggregate interface.
Examining the Relationships between Cumulative Childhood Adversity and the Risk of Criminal Justice Involvement and Victimization among Homeless Adults with Mental Illnesses after Receiving Housing First Intervention
Authors: Edalati Hanie , Nicholls Tonia L. , Schütz Christian G. , Somers Julian M. , Distasio Jino , Aubry Tim , Crocker Anne G.
Published: January 2020

Objectives:

Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is associated with increased risk of criminal justice involvement and repeated victimization among homeless individuals. This study aimed to (1) examine whether the relationship between cumulative ACE score and odds of experiencing criminal justice involvement and victimization remains significant over time after receiving the Housing First (HF) intervention and (2) investigate the moderating effect of cumulative ACE score on the effectiveness of the HF intervention on the likelihood of experiencing these outcomes among homeless individuals with mental illnesses.

Methods:

We used longitudinal data over the 2-year follow-up period from the At Home/ Chez Soi demonstration project that provided HF versus treatment as usual (TAU) to homeless adults with mental illness in five Canadian cities (N = 1,888).

Results:

In all 4 follow-up time points, the relationship between cumulative ACE score and both outcomes remained significant, regardless of study arm (HF vs. TAU) and other confounding factors. However, cumulative ACE score did not moderate intervention effects on odds of experiencing either outcome, suggesting that the effectiveness of HF versus TAU, with regard to the odds of being victimized or criminal justice involvement, did not differ by cumulative ACE scores over the course of study.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest that providing services for homeless individuals with mental illness should be trauma informed and include specialized treatment strategies targeting the experience of ACEs and trauma to improve their treatment outcomes. An intensive approach is required to directly address the problem of criminal justice involvement and victimization in these individuals.
Rurality and Risk of Suicide Attempts and Death by Suicide among People Living in Four English-speaking High-income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Barry Rebecca , Rehm Jürgen , de Oliveira Claire , Gozdyra Peter , Kurdyak Paul
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Previous research indicates a potential relationship between rurality and suicide, indicating that those living in rural areas may be at increased risk of suicide. This relationship has not been reviewed systematically. This study aims to determine whether those living in rural areas are more likely to complete or attempt suicide.

Method:

This systematic review and meta-analysis included observational studies based on people living in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Data sources included PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar from January 2006 to December 2017. Studies must have compared rural and urban suicide or suicide attempts. Nonprimary research articles were excluded.

Results:

A total of 6,259 studies were identified and 53 were included. Results indicate that males living in rural areas are more likely to complete suicide than their urban counterparts (RR = 1.41, 95% CI, 1.21 to 1.64, I 2 = 96%). Females in rural areas are not significantly more likely to complete suicide (RR = 1.16, 95% CI, 0.98 to 1.37, I 2 = 79%). Among studies that only reported combined estimates, rural individuals are more likely to complete suicide (RR = 1.22, 95% CI, 1.11 to 1.33, I 2 = 98%). There is no association found between rurality and suicide attempts (RR = 0.93, 95% CI, 0.73 to 1.19, I 2 = 85%).

Conclusions:

Those living in rural areas are more likely to complete suicide, with some studies indicating that only rural males are more likely to complete suicide; these findings are relatively consistent across all four countries. Public health initiatives should aim to overcome geographic variation in completed suicide, with a particular focus on rural males.
The reintegration of ex-combatants and post-conflict violence. An analysis of municipal crime levels in Colombia
Authors: Peña Andrea González , Dorussen Han
Published: January 2020

Violent crime in Colombia is analyzed following the demobilization of ex-combatants using municipal-level data. The main findings are that an increased presence of ex-combatants does not systematically increase homicides, but may increase robberies. Reintegration programs are shown to matter. Former paramilitaries who are not in a reintegration program increase crime. Former guerillas increase robberies, regardless of whether they are in or out of reintegration, but homicides decrease for guerrillas in reintegration. Ex-combatants often settle in municipalities with more crime. Controlling for reverse causality, ex-combatants only increase crime if they are not in reintegration, while in reintegration they may reduce crime.
Land disputes on the outskirts of Istanbul: a unique case of legalization amidst demolitions and forced evictions
Authors: Cabannes Yves , Göral Özgür Sevgi
Published: January 2020

This paper focuses on struggles for land by ordinary people in globalizing cities. By drawing on three cases in Istanbul, it explores the circumstances under which these struggles can be successful. It analyses the evolution of the self-built settlements of Ayazma, Yakacık and Hürriyet and their varied outcomes, from legalization to razing. Three conditions seem to explain why land titling was obtained in Yakacık and proved impossible elsewhere. One is specific to land ownership. The second reason revolves around the mediating role and political commitment of a district municipality, primarily through the engagement of one of its decision-makers in favour of poor residents. The third reason relates to the nature and form of Yakacık residents’ mobilization and organizations. All of these conditions are essential; none is sufficient individually. The difficulty of bringing all these conditions together at one time and in one place explains the exceptional nature of the case in point.
Quality of care predicts outcome in systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional analysis of a German long-term study (LuLa cohort)
Authors: Kernder A , Richter J G , Fischer-Betz R , Winkler-Rohlfing B , Brinks R , Schneider M , Chehab G
Published: January 2020

Objective

Our aim was to study the quality of medical care in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to understand gaps and to analyze the association with outcome of the disease.

Methods

Information on demographics and medical care was assessed by self-reported questionnaires among SLE patients (LuLa cohort, 2011, n = 580). In total, 21 aspects of medical care were analyzed. Univariate analysis selected 10 predictor variables for further analysis: (1) urine examination and (2) blood test in the previous year, (3) taking antimalarials, (4) taking vitamin D and calcium if the dosage of prednisolone was greater than 7.5 mg/day, counseling regarding (5) lipid metabolism, (6) vaccination, and (7) blood pressure, and treatment of the comorbidities (8) hypertension, (9) osteoporosis and (10) lipid metabolism disorder. The association of these 10 items with the outcome of the disease, assessed in 2015, was analyzed by linear regression analysis, adjusted for age, disease duration and sex.

Results

On average six of the 10 items were met (±1.7). Receiving more clinical care in 2013 was predictive for low disease activity (SLAQ, p = 0.024, β = –0.104, corr. R2 = 0.048), low progress in disease-related damage (Delta Brief Index of Lupus Questionnaire, p = 0.048, β = –0.132, corr. R2 = 0.036) and high health-related quality of life (SF-12 physical, p = 0.035, β = 0.100, corr. R2 = 0.091) in 2015.

Conclusion

Our study illustrates a link between the quality of care and the SLE outcome parameters disease activity, disease-related damage and quality of life. Consistent considerations of these care parameters, which are recommended in several management guidelines, could therefore be a good approach to improve the outcome of patients with SLE.
Climate Engineering as a Communication Challenge: Contested Notions of Responsibility Across Expert Arenas of Science and Policy
Authors: Matzner Nils , Barben Daniel
Published: January 2020

Climate engineering (CE) is often said to bring about significant opportunities as well as risks. The pursuit of CE measures can be framed as either responsible or irresponsible, resulting in contentious and ambiguous communication. This article starts out from a notion of responsibility regarding subjects, objects, norms, and authorities. It will identify and analyze discursive patterns of responsibility across six expert arenas and provide a comparative mapping of these patterns. Better understanding controversy may help in finding common ground for designing research and policy strategies around CE. Taking on the challenges of communicating CE-related responsibilities would support CE governance.
The Clean Hotel Room: A Public Health Imperative
Authors: Sembajwe Grace , Spaeth Kenneth , Dropkin Jonathan
Published: January 2020

As the hotel industry leads in environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) criteria, cleaning hotel rooms on a daily basis promotes public health. This activity leads to cleaner air and reduces the potential for exposure and spread of biohazards. Daily room cleaning is also in direct concordance with building a robust and effective green (environmental) policy. Although guests will always have the option to choose individual frequency, at the hotel management and policy level, daily room cleaning and checks are part of a sound greening program, consistent with advancements and innovation in environmental and social governance programs that are integral to public safety and health.
Outcomes of refractive error correction in pseudophakic patients using a sulcus piggyback intraocular lens
Authors: Levinger Eliya , Mimouni Michael , Finkelman Yaron , Yatziv Yossi , Shahar Jonathan , Trivizki Omer
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to assess the results of a sulcus intraocular lens (Sulcoflex) for pseudophakic refractive errors following phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Methods:

This retrospective clinical observational cohort study included consecutive eyes in which a Sulcoflex was implanted. Uncorrected distance visual acuity and corrected distance visual acuity as well as refractive outcomes were assessed. The minimum follow-up time required for inclusion was 3 months.

Results:

In total, 15 eyes ( n = 15) were evaluated. The mean follow-up was 14 months (range: 3–18 months). The Sulcoflex aspheric (653L) was implanted in 13 eyes and the Sulcoflex toric (653T) in two eyes. The preoperative mean logMAR (Snellen) uncorrected distance visual acuity and corrected distance visual acuity were 0.88 (20/150) and 0.27 (20/40), respectively. The postoperative mean logMAR (Snellen) corrected distance visual acuity was 0.15 (20/30). The preoperative mean spherical equivalent was −0.22 ± 5.95 D and the postoperative mean spherical equivalent was −1.59 ± 1.45 D. There was a significant and strong correlation ( r = 0.64, p < 0.001) between the attempted and the achieved spherical equivalent.

Conclusion:

The Sulcoflex is a safe and viable option for patients with residual refractive error following cataract surgery.
Simulation of Chordate Intron Evolution Using Randomly Generated and Mutated Base Sequences
Authors: Wang Guang-Dong , Wang Yong , Zeng Zhen , Mao Jun-Ming , He Qin-Liu , Yao Qin , Chen Ke-Ping
Published: January 2020

Introns are well known for their high variation not only in length but also in base sequence. The evolution of intron sequences has aroused broad interest in the past decades. However, very little is known about the evolutionary pattern of introns due to the lack of efficient analytical method. In this study, we designed 2 evolutionary models, that is, mutation-and-deletion (MD) and mutation-and-insertion (MI), to simulate intron evolution using randomly generated and mutated bases by referencing to the phylogenetic tree constructed using 14 chordate introns from TF4 (transcription factor–like protein 4) gene. A comparison of attributes between model-generated sequences and chordate introns showed that the MD model with proper parameter settings could generate sequences that have attributes matchable to chordate introns, whereas the MI model with any parameter settings failed in doing so. These data suggest that the surveyed chordate introns have evolved from a long ancestral sequence through gradual reduction in length. The established methodology provides an effective measure to study the evolutionary pattern of intron sequences from organisms of various taxonomic groups. (C++ scripts of MD and MI models are available upon request.)
Volatile Organic Compound Emissions From Heated Synthetic Hair: A Pilot Study
Authors: Auguste Donna , Miller Shelly L
Published: January 2020

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted from a variety of household and personal care products. Many VOCs are known to be potentially toxic or carcinogenic. Synthetic hair is used in hair-styling practices, including practices in African American communities that involve singeing or heating the synthetic hair. The research questions that we sought to answer were as follows: Are VOCs emitted from singed or heated synthetic hair? If so, what are the VOC species and relative masses identified in singed or heated synthetic hair? We tested samples from 2 sources of singed and heated synthetic hair in a microchamber; one source was flame-retardant synthetic hair and the other source was non-flame-retardant synthetic hair. Our findings confirmed that VOCs are emitted from singed or heated synthetic hair for both types of sources. For flame-retardant synthetic hair, we identified and measured mass for species that included acetone, acetonitrile, 2-butanone, benzene, chloromethane, chloroethane, and 1,2-dichloroethane. For non-flame-retardant synthetic hair, we identified and measured mass for species that included acetone, acetonitrile, chloromethane, trichlorofluoromethane, and 2-propanol.
Relationship between sensory processing patterns, trait anxiety, and health-related quality of life in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Stern Brocha Z , Strober Lauren B , Goverover Yael
Published: January 2020

Sensory processing patterns may predict health-related quality of life. This study examined this relationship in persons with multiple sclerosis considering trait anxiety as a potential mediator. Participants ( n = 94) completed the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile and other self-report measures at one time point. Sensory processing patterns were significantly associated with trait anxiety and health-related quality of life. Direct and indirect effects of sensory processing patterns were identified on physical health-related quality of life, and indirect effects were identified on mental health-related quality of life. Facilitating adaptive behavioral responses to sensory information may promote health-related quality of life in this population.
“One part politics, one part technology, one part history”: Racial representation in the Unicode 7.0 emoji set
Authors: Miltner Kate M.
Published: January 2020

Emoji are miniature pictographs that have taken over text messages, emails, and Tweets worldwide. Although contemporary emoji represent a variety of races, genders, and sexual orientations, the original emoji set came under fire for its racial homogeneity: minus two “ethnic” characters, the people emoji featured in Unicode 7.0 were represented as White. This article investigates the set of circumstances that gave rise to this state of affairs, and explores the implications for users of color whose full participation in the emoji phenomenon is constrained by their exclusion. This project reveals that the lack of racial representation within the emoji set is the result of colorblind racism as evidenced through two related factors: aversion to, and avoidance of, the politics of technical systems and a refusal to recognize that the racial homogeneity of the original emoji set was problematic in the first place.
Propaganda through ‘reflexive control’ and the mediated construction of reality
Authors: Till Christopher
Published: January 2020

The nature of reality has been a central concern of philosophy and the social sciences, but since the proliferation of social media, psychological operations have taken on greater visibility and significance in political action. ‘Fake news’ and micro-targeted and deceptive advertising in elections and votes has brought the tenuous character of political reality to the fore. The affordances of the Internet, World Wide Web and social media have enabled users to be mobilised to varying degrees of awareness for propaganda and disinformation campaigns both as producers and spreaders of content and as generators of data for profiling and targeting. This article will argue that social media platforms and the broader political economy of the Internet create the possibilities for online interactions and targeting which enable form of political intervention focused on the destabilisation of perceptions of reality and recruit users in the construction of new politically useful realities.
Standing up or standing by: Bystander intervention in cyberbullying on social media
Authors: Wang Sai
Published: January 2020

Cyberbullying often happens in the presence of bystanders whose behaviors play a key role in changing dynamics of the situation. To examine the factors influencing cyberbystander likelihood of intervening in cyberbullying on social media, a 2 (degree of cyberbullying severity: high vs low) × 2 (level of interpersonal similarity: high vs low) between-subjects experiment was conducted ( N = 132). Results indicated that cyberbystanders’ empathic responses depended on the severity of cyberbullying. The more empathy bystanders felt, the more likely they were to publicly and privately intervene. Moreover, the indirect effect of cyberbullying severity on willingness to intervene through empathy was more pronounced when the interpersonal similarity between victim and cyberbystander was low, rather than it was high.
Position analysis and nonlinear phenomena of flexible manipulator with generic payload mounted on a moving base
Authors: Kumar Pravesh , Pratiher Barun
Published: January 2020

The investigation of the end-point trajectory and the nonlinear oscillation of elastic manipulator with offset payload mounted on moving base has been carried out by demonstrating the modal parameters and dynamic responses of a bi-directionally deflected rotating flexible link manipulator. A large deflection model of a flexible rotating manipulator considering both transverse and axial deformation, dynamics of rotating hub, generic payload, and rigid motion of platform has been derived. Initially, modal analysis has been studied to graphically illustrate the eigenfrequencies and corresponding eigenspectrums, while it has been noted that the system possesses distinct and different vibration characteristics as compared to that of a system without offset payload. A smooth sinusoidal input torque has been imparted to the joint to assess the time dependency factors and parameters, which describe its position inaccuracy over time. Finally, the investigation of influence of essential system attributes on the nonlinear behavior and system instabilities under resonance conditions by analyzing the steady-state solutions has been accomplished. The effect of payload parameters such as mass, inertia, and offset, along with the inertia and stiffness of actuator on the frequency response curves has been demonstrated graphically. This work exhibits that the system’s dynamics diversely evolve with a change of offset parameters while system loses its stability due to saddle-node bifurcations. The present result offers specific guidelines towards the design and control aspects of flexible manipulators based on the selection of offset parameters.
An investigation of the perspectives of low-income Latina mothers with preschoolers transitioning to kindergarten
Authors: Coba-Rodriguez Sarai , Jarrett Robin L
Published: January 2020

Research in the United States (U.S.) documents that young Latino children whose families are characterized by demographic risk factors disproportionately lack the early literacy skills needed to successfully transition to kindergarten. Quantitative studies using comparative samples have found lower quality home learning environments and lower scores on a child outcome assessments among Latino children compared to their Black and White peers. A small body of qualitative, non-comparative studies that focus on Latino families in their own right provides descriptive accounts of the positive ways that Latina mothers and other family members promote child literacy development, despite being characterized by demographic risk factors. However, the social address variables utilized in quantitative studies limit our understanding of the family processes affecting child literacy development, and most qualitative studies focus on older, school-aged children with very few studies focusing on the early transitional period before kindergarten, especially for Latinos. Addressing current gaps in the literature on preschool-aged children, we conducted in-depth qualitative interviews and photo-elicitation interviews with 17 low-income Latina mothers of Head Start preschoolers in a northern Chicago suburb in the U.S. Privileging mothers’ voices and experiences, we explored their in-home emergent literacy practices and the role of other family members in promoting children’s literacy development. Informed by a family resilience framework, we accessed intimate family worlds that reveal highly engaged and resilient parents. Specifically, we identified numerous child literacy skills that families supported through an array of family instructional practices and tools. We further identified the role of various available family members, particularly fathers and siblings. These findings add to substantive discussions of emergent literacy, resilience and familismo. Insights from the qualitative interviews lead to recommendations for how early childhood educators can capitalize on families’ funds of knowledge, and view them as valued collaborators.
Cross-national insights into social workers’ multi-dimensional moral agency when working with child abuse and neglect
Authors: Mikkonen Enni , Laitinen Merja , Gupta Anna , Nikupeteri Anna , Hurtig Johanna
Published: January 2020

This paper analyses social workers’ moral agency in addressing child abuse and neglect. We argue that ethically sound social work requires the capacity to exercise strong, multidimensional moral agency. The contribution is based on a qualitative interpretative meta-synthesis of four studies representing different forms of child abuse and neglect in varied contexts. Drawing on our analysis, we identify three thematic categories of moral considerations in terms of social workers’ moral work in addressing child abuse and neglect: genders and generations, agencies and responsibilities, and families and communities. We then proceed to posit four dimensions of moral work in child and family social work – individual; cultural and communal; societal and political; and global – and argue that if they are to exercise strong moral agency, social workers must negotiate these intersecting contextual dimensions. Recognising the salience of these dimensions, how they increasingly intersect, and what this demands of social workers is necessary for the profession. Social workers must embrace individually sensitive, culturally translative, politically engaged and globally aware moral agency. This is crucial in elaborating context-sensitive practice that critically engages with moral complexities when working with individuals, families and communities.
A Lens for Transfer: A History of the Theoretical Frameworks and Conceptual Models Applied to the Study of Transfer Students
Authors: Brinkley-Etzkorn Karen , Cherry Leigh
Published: January 2020

This literature-based study traces the emergence and application of theoretical frameworks and conceptual models applied to the study of higher education transfer students and practices. From the application of early theories in economics and anthropology dating back to the 18th century, to the development of transfer-specific frameworks as recently as 2016, this article reviews primary and secondary sources that apply the theoretical models that researchers have used to understand the complexities of this expanding area of study. Following a chronological approach, the researchers propose six distinct phases of research that have informed this topic. The article concludes with a discussion of the findings and important implications for both research and practice.
Using Motivation, Opportunity, and Ability Model in Social Marketing to Predict “Galamsey” Behavior in Ghana
Authors: Tweneboah-Koduah Ernest Yaw , Mann Victoria Ekua , Adams Matilda
Published: January 2020

Background:

Illegal mining (hereafter referred to as “galamsey”) has adverse effect on human life, the environment, and other living organisms that support human existence. However, the traditional strategies employed by governments and other stakeholders to tackle “galamsey” have proved ineffective in changing “galamseyers” behavior.

Focus:

This research thus aims to apply the motivation, opportunity, and ability (MOA) model in social marketing to predict and explain behavior change toward galamsey activities in Ghana. Specifically, the paper investigates the influence of Motivation (i.e., attitudes toward stopping “galamsey” activities, beliefs and subjective norms) on intentions toward the behavior, as well as opportunity and ability on the intentions–behavior nexus.

Key Hypotheses:

The study tested the following key hypotheses: There is a positive and significant relationship between beliefs and intention to stop galamsey activities, there is a positive and significant relationship between attitude and intention to stop galamsey activities, there is a positive and significant relationship between social norms and behavioral intention to stop galamsey activities, and there is a positive and significant relationship between intention to stop galamsey and galamsey behavior change.

Methods:

Self-administered survey was used to collect data from “galamsey” operators ( n = 238) in Kyebi-Ghana, using convenience and snowball sampling techniques. The hypothesized relationships were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Results:

The findings of the study reveal that “galamseyers” behavioral intention toward stopping “galamsey” is mainly determined by the respondents’ beliefs about and positive attitudes toward the behavior. The results further establish a positive significant relationship between intention and actual behavior change. Moreover, the findings suggest a strong interactive relationship between intentions and ability, intentions and opportunity and actual behavior. The study however did not find a significant relationship between social norms and intentions to stop “galamsey” activities.

Recommendation for Research or Practice:

These findings can be used to develop interventions aimed at fostering positive behavior change toward “galamsey.”

Importance to Social Marketing Field:

By applying the MOA model to a social marketing context, the study contributes to knowledge by providing a deeper theoretical understanding from an emerging economy context.

Limitation:

Although the MOA model was able to predict “galamsey” behavior change, the model has been criticized for including opportunities and failing to mention that inhibitors (barriers) to be reduced to foster sustainable behavior change. Hence, future studies should include other variables in the model to cater for this gap.
Emergent carotid artery stenting in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to cervical internal carotid artery steno-occlusive lesion: Comparison of tandem intracranial occlusion and isolated cervical internal carotid artery occlusion
Authors: Park Sung E , Choi Dae S , Baek Hye J , Ryu Kyeong H , Ha Ji Y , Choi Ho C , Lee Sangmin , Won Jungho , Jung Seunguk
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Acute ischemic strokes caused by steno-occlusive lesion of the cervical internal carotid artery are associated with poor clinical outcome. We evaluated the clinical efficacy of emergent carotid artery stenting for the management of these lesions. We compared the clinical outcomes regarding the intracranial lesion, namely tandem occlusions versus isolated cervical internal carotid artery occlusion.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent carotid artery stenting for cervical internal carotid artery steno-occlusive lesion between 2011 and 2018. After dividing the patients into two groups according to the presence or absence of intracranial lesions (tandem group and isolated cervical group), we analyzed demographic data, angiographic findings, and clinical outcomes. A modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 was defined as a favorable clinical outcome.

Results

Of 75 patients, 46 patients (61.3%) had tandem lesions, and the remaining 29 had only cervical internal carotid artery steno-occlusive lesion. Successful stenting was performed in all patients with favorable clinical outcomes (64.0%). Successful reperfusion score (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction ≥2 b) was 84.0%; tandem group (76.1%) versus isolated cervical group (96.6%) of cases. Mean modified Rankin Scale score at 90-days was 2.09. The rate of favorable clinical outcome showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups ( p = 0.454).

Conclusions

Endovascular treatment in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to cervical internal carotid artery steno-occlusive lesion is a technically feasible and clinically effective intervention regardless of intracranial occlusion. Therefore, we recommend endovascular treatment regardless of the presence of concomitant intracranial artery occlusion for patients with acute ischemic stroke caused by cervical internal carotid artery steno-occlusive lesion.