bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring which test-taker characteristics predict young L2 learners’ performance on listening and reading comprehension tests
Authors: Sok Sarah , Shin Hye Won , Do Juhyun
Published: February 2021

Test-taker characteristics (TTCs), or individual difference variables, are known to be a systematic source of variance in language test performance. Although previous research has documented the impact of a range of TTCs on second language (L2) learners’ test performance, few of these studies have involved young learners. Given that young L2 learners undergo rapid maturational changes in their cognitive abilities, are susceptible to affective factors in unique ways, and have little autonomy with respect to the context of L2 acquisition, the relationship between their personal attributes and their test performance merit separate research attention. To fill this gap, we investigated the extent to which sixth-grade, Korean-L1, EFL learners’ ( n = 107) TTCs predicted their performance on tests of L2 listening and reading comprehension. The TTCs under investigation included three cognitive characteristics (aptitude, phonological working memory, L1 competence), one affective factor (motivation), and two demographic variables (socioeconomic status and gender). Results showed that aptitude and phonological working memory significantly predicted participants’ performance on both L2 listening and reading comprehension tests, whereas motivation predicted performance on the L2 listening comprehension test only. These findings suggest that higher aptitude, phonological working memory, and motivation contribute positively to young learners’ L2 outcomes.
Access to educational information enabled by ICT tools in the Fort Beaufort Education District (FBED), Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Oyediran-Tidings S.O. , Nekhwevha F.H. , Ondari-Okemwa E.M. , Salubi Oghenere
Published: February 2021

The benefits of the application of ICT tools in the education of high school learners have been well-established in various studies. As developments in technology have increased the reach of electronic information resources and enhanced learners’ access to educational information, it is imperative that these tools be available and accessible without any hindrances whatsoever to high school learners. This study was set out to evaluate the state of ICT infrastructure available to high school learners for the advancement of access to educational information while accentuating the efforts by the South African government to promote computer access in schools. This study underscores the importance of ICT tools for high school learners in ensuring quality educational outcome. A triangulated design was adopted to collect both qualitative and quantitative data on the condition of ICT-enabled access to educational information from Grade 12 learners and teachers in the Fort Beaufort Education District, Eastern Cape South Africa. Results show that learners’ access to educational information is constrained by inadequate provision of ICT infrastructure, restricted access to ICT tools, regulations for use of personal ICT tools and absence of information literacy for high school learners. The study, therefore, recommends the improved and dedicated provision of ICT resources, ICT-enabled educational information literacy program and flexibility of rules regarding the use of personal ICT tools at school.
Women’s Disempowerment and Preferences for Skin Lightening Products That Reinforce Colorism: Experimental Evidence From India
Authors: Adbi Arzi , Chatterjee Chirantan , Cortland Clarissa , Kinias Zoe , Singh Jasjit
Published: February 2021

Global racism and colorism, the preference for fairer skin even within ethnic and racial groups, leads millions of women of African, Asian, and Latin descent to use products with chemical ingredients intended to lighten skin color. Drawing from literatures on the impact of chronic and situational disempowerment on behavioral risk-taking to enhance status, we hypothesized that activating feelings of disempowerment would increase women of color’s interest in stronger and riskier products meant to lighten skin tone quickly and effectively. In two experiments (Experiment 1: N = 253 women and 264 men; Experiment 2: replication study, N = 318 women) with distinct samples of Indian participants, we found that being in a state of psychological disempowerment (vs. empowerment) increased Indian women’s preference for stronger and riskier skin lightening products but not for milder products. Indian men’s interest in both types of products was unaffected by the same psychological disempowerment prime. Based on these findings, we recommend increased consideration among teaching faculty, research scholars, and clinicians on how feeling disempowered can lead women of color to take risks to lighten their skin as well as other issues of intersectionality and with respect to colorism. We also encourage the adoption of policies aimed at empowering women of color and minimizing access to harmful skin lightening products.
The MID5 Dataset, 2011–2014: Procedures, coding rules, and description
Authors: Palmer Glenn , McManus Roseanne W , D’Orazio Vito , Kenwick Michael R , Karstens Mikaela , Bloch Chase , Dietrich Nick , Kahn Kayla , Ritter Kellan , Soules Michael J
Published: February 2021

This article introduces the latest iteration of the most widely used dataset on interstate conflicts, the Militarized Interstate Dispute (MID) 5 dataset. We begin by outlining the data collection process used in the MID5 project. Next, we discuss some of the most challenging cases that we coded and some updates to the coding manual that resulted. Finally, we provide descriptive statistics for the new years of the MID data.
The Hidden Contributions of Local Staff When Hosting International Development Volunteers
Authors: Fee Anthony
Published: February 2021

This exploratory study identifies what additional work-roles local staff take on when their organization hosts a long-term international development volunteer, and explains why they do this. Analyzing interview data from a sample of local employees in Vietnamese organizations, the study identifies five work-roles: two that buttressed “volunteer and organization readiness” (preparing and orienting) and three that facilitated “volunteer performance” (translating, advocating, and mediating). These roles, often outside the formal work-role and expertise of the local employees, added to their cognitive and emotional loads and to a large extent went unrecognized by their employers. They were motivated by a combination of personal benefit (notably, opportunities to learn) and reciprocity norms that appear influenced, in part, by respondents’ cultural conditioning. The implications of this for volunteer-involved organizations, volunteers, and locals are discussed.
The Dawkins effect? Celebrity scientists, (non)religious publics and changed attitudes to evolution
Authors: Unsworth Amy , Voas David
Published: February 2021

The role of science popularization remains relatively under-explored in research on contemporary public acceptance of evolution. In this study, we analyse national survey data to interrogate the role Britain’s best-known celebrity scientists David Attenborough, Brian Cox, Richard Dawkins and Stephen Hawking may have played in changing public views of evolution, as well as the role of two creationists: Ken Ham and Harun Yahya. We investigate how well known these public figures are, what their views of religion are perceived to be and, drawing on social identity theory, whether they exert different effects on attitudinal change to evolution among different religious and non-religious publics. Binary logistic regression analysis shows that among Muslim and Pentecostal Christian publics, those familiar with Dawkins as both a scientist and as someone who holds negative views of religion are more likely to have become less accepting of evolution. Conversely, among non-religious publics, Dawkins was the only celebrity scientist associated with higher odds of becoming more accepting of evolution. We suggest that engaging certain religious audiences with the science of evolutionary biology may be more effective when their religious identities are not threatened.
Successful Treatment of Pediatric Refractory Burkitt Lymphoma PTLD after Liver Transplantation using Anti-CD19 Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Feng Mingxuan , Luo Chengjuan , Wan Xinyu , Pan Ci , Tang Jingyan , Xue Feng , Yin Minzhi , Lu Dongqing , Xia Qiang , Li Benshang , Chen Jing
Published: February 2021

In the immunocompromised setting, recipients of solid-organ or hematopoietic stem-cell transplants carry an increased risk of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). Burkitt lymphoma (BL) PTLD is a rare form of monomorphic B-cell PTLD, which lacks a standard best treatment. Here, we report the successful treatment of refractory BL-PTLD with autologous anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy. A male patient was diagnosed with BL-PTLD, with an increasing Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viral load, at 21 months after undergoing living liver transplantation from his mother due to neonatal biliary atresia. After 10 cycles rituximab +/− intensive chemotherapy and surgical tumor resection, the tumors significantly advanced. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissue, revealing one mutation in exon 5, TP53: p.A159 V, which may be associated with chemo-resistance. Thus, treatment was started with autologous anti-CD19 CAR T-cell therapy. We administered 9.0 × 106/kg autologous anti-CD19 CAR T-cells, after conditioning with cyclophosphamide and fludarabine. Unexpectedly, the patient experienced only mild (Grade II) cytokine release syndrome (CRS) without neurotoxicity. Finally, he went into complete remission (CR), and has achieved 16-month event-free survival to date. In addition, liver function has remained stably within the normal range without any immunosuppressive therapy. The literature includes only five previously reported BL cases treated with CAR T-cell therapy. In conclusion, the present case suggests that autologous anti-CD19 CAR T-cell therapy may represent a new therapeutic option for some cases of refractory BL-PTLD.

Clinical trial number: ChiCTR2000032211.
Tubulosquamous Polyp of the Vagina: Misplaced Skene’s Glands Analogous to the Male Prostate
Authors: Roy Simon F. , Comeau Lise , Provencher Diane , Rahimi Kurosh
Published: February 2021

Tubulosquamous polyp (TSP) of the vagina is a rare and benign lesion, best considered along the spectrum of lesions derived from Skene’s glands, the female counterpart of male prostatic glands. It is likely underdiagnosed and represents a challenging diagnosis if one is unfamiliar with this entity. We present an illustrative case of TSP occurring as an upper vaginal wall nodule of a 75-year-old woman, with characteristic morphology and broad immunophenotype. It should be suspected in postmenopausal women with a polyp that demonstrates biphasic squamous and glandular components, which show a prostatic immunophenotype.
Histopathologic Manifestations of Crohn Disease in Duodenal Endoscopy Biopsy: The Value of Different Patterns of Involvement of Brunner Glands
Authors: AbdullGaffar Badr , Quraishi Hoda
Published: February 2021

Crohn disease (CD) not uncommonly involves the upper gastrointestinal tract, usually gastric antrum and proximal duodenum. The most consistent histopathologic manifestations of CD in duodenal biopsies are mucosal erosion, focal active inflammation, and granulomas. Since CD is a transmural inflammation and since duodenal biopsy may include submucosal Brunner glands, we aimed to find if CD has any specific histopathologic manifestations in Brunner gland lobules and their ducts compared to other duodenal inflammatory lesions. We carried out a retrospective review study over 6 years retrieving duodenal biopsy specimens in CD patients. We compared duodenal specimens involved by CD with other inflammatory lesions, for example, ulcerative colitis (UC), Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis, non-Helicobacter gastritis, Celiac sprue, infections, and drugs. We found focal active duodenitis and erosion in CD cases and non-CD cases. Granulomas were found in CD cases. Five cases of CD showed inflammatory and degenerative changes of Brunner glands. Focal patchy active inflammation of only portion of submucosal Brunner gland lobule, mucosal Brunner glands, and their ducts was solely found in CD cases. This focally enhanced inflammation of Brunner glands was not found in other lesions. Whether this phenomenon of focal active “lobulitis” and “ductitis” is a specific sign of duodenal CD compared to UC and other inflammatory lesions warrants verification. We encourage endoscopists to include submucosal Brunner lobules in their duodenal biopsy samples and pathologists to look for these patterns of involvement particularly in patients suspected of CD.
Does Reassessment Enhance the Prediction of Imminent Criminal Recidivism? Replicating Lloyd et al. (2020) With High-Risk Parolees
Authors: Davies Simon T. , Lloyd Caleb D. , Polaschek Devon L. L.
Published: February 2021

Lloyd et al. (2020) proposed and tested a novel three-step framework for examining the extent to which reassessment of dynamic risk and protective factors enhances the prediction of imminent criminal recidivism. We conducted a conceptual replication of Lloyd et al.’s study. We used the same dynamic risk assessment measure in the same jurisdiction but, unlike Lloyd et al., our sample comprised solely high-risk men on parole in New Zealand ( N = 966), the individuals who are most frequently reassessed in the community and most likely to imminently reoffend. The results of the previous study were largely reproduced: reassessment consistently enhanced prediction, with the most pronounced effects observed for a scale derived from theoretically acute dynamic risk factors. These findings indicate reassessment effects are robust to sample selection based on a narrower range of risk levels and remain robust across years of practice in applied contexts, despite potential organizational drift from initial training and reassessment fatigue. The findings also provide further support for the practice of ongoing risk reassessment in community supervision and suggest that the method proposed by Lloyd et al. is a replicable approach for testing the essential criteria for defining dynamic risk and protective factors.
Mittag–Leffler stability and finite-time control for a fractional-order hydraulic turbine governing system with mechanical time delay: An linear matrix inequalitie approach
Authors: Chen Peng , Wang Bin , Tian Yuqiang , Yang Ying
Published: February 2021

This article mainly studies the Mittag–Leffler stability and finite-time control of a time-delay fractional-order hydraulic turbine governing system. First, properties of the Riemann–Liouville derivative and some important lemmas are introduced. Second, considering the mechanical time delay of the main servomotor, the mathematical model of a fractional-order hydraulic turbine governing system with mechanical time delay is presented. Then, based on Mittag–Leffler stability theorem, a suitable sliding surface and finite-time controller are designed for the hydraulic turbine governing system. The system stability is confirmed, and the stability condition is given in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, the traditional proportional–integral–derivative control method and an existing sliding mode control method are selected to verify the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method. This study also provides a new approach for the stability analysis of the time-delay fractional-order hydraulic turbine governing system.
Research of vibration and crack propagation controls on an asymmetrical cracked rotor
Authors: Liu Jun , Han Zhu , Hu Rong
Published: February 2021

To investigate vibration characteristics and delay crack propagations of an asymmetric cracked rotor, the 3D finite element model of the rotor system with a nonlinear contact method is established. Resonance characteristics of the asymmetrical rotor without a crack and within different locations of a crack are investigated systematically. Numerical results show that a crack affects vibration frequencies and the unstable region of the rotor. Meanwhile, an improved proportional integral differential control method with the electromagnetic actuator is used to accomplish the delay crack propagation and the vibration suppression. Based on the mapping model of opening and closing states of a crack, the effects of rotational speeds, an unbalance, and asymmetries of the rotor are discussed in detail. Experimental results show that vibrations and the breathing behavior of cracks in the rotor with the electromagnetic actuator can be suppressed, and the effectiveness of the proposed mapping model of opening and closing states of a crack is verified.
Vibration suppression of wind turbine nacelle with active electromagnetic mass damper systems using adaptive backstepping control
Authors: Basaran Sinan , Bolat Fevzi Cakmak , Sivrioglu Selim
Published: February 2021

Many structural systems, such as wind turbines, are exposed to high levels of stress during operation. This is mainly because of the flow-induced vibrations caused by the wind load encountered in every tall structure. Preventing the flow-induced vibration has been an important research area. In this study, an active electromagnetic mass damper system was used to eliminate the vibrations. The position of the stabilizer mass in the active electromagnetic mass damper system was determined according to the displacement information read on the system without using any spring element, unlike any conventional system. The proposed system in this study has a structure that can be implemented as a vibration suppressor in many intelligent structural systems. Two opposing electromagnets were used to determine the instant displacement of the stabilizer mass. The control currents to be given to these electromagnets are determined by using an adaptive backstepping control design. The adaptive controller algorithm can predict the wind load used in the controller design without prior knowledge of the actual wind load. It was observed that the designed active electromagnetic mass damper structure is successful in suppressing system vibrations. As a result, the proposed active electromagnetic mass damper system has been shown to be suitable for structural systems in flow-induced vibration damping.
Educational Impact of Notebook Covers on the Knowledge of Sixth-Grade Primary Pupils About Tooth Avulsion and Replantation: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Sedlaceck Paulo , Poi Wilson Roberto , Amaral Marina Fuzette , Castilho Lithiene Ribeiro , Panzarini Sônia Regina , Saito Célia Tomiko Matida Hamata , Brandini Daniela Atili
Published: February 2021

Background

Tooth avulsion is a common cause of tooth loss. However, there is a significant lack of knowledge about dental trauma and the appropriate emergency procedures to handle these cases.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the educational effect of notebook covers illustrated with figures and informative texts about tooth avulsion and replantation in sixth-grade primary school pupils.

Material and Methods

Sixth-grade pupils of two public school participated in this study. An experimental group consisting of 134 pupils received notebook covers illustrated with figures and informative texts about tooth avulsion and replantation, while a control group of 108 pupils received notebooks with neutral covers. An assessment of the educational effects on pupils was performed after 9 months, with a standardized questionnaire normally used to evaluate dental trauma. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS 21.0 (α = .05) for group description and comparison using chi-square and Student t tests.

Results

Compared with the control group, the experimental group showed statistically significant improvements in correct meaning of dental trauma (38% vs. 58.2%); procedures to follow in the case of dental avulsion (2.8% vs. 70.9%); storing the avulsed tooth in milk (18.5% vs. 76.9%); general knowledge about dental anatomy (61.1% vs. 95.5%); and the ideal time for the tooth to remain outside the mouth prior to replantation (20.4% vs. 59.7%).

Conclusion

The use of notebook covers illustrated with figures and informative texts about dental trauma led to a significant increase in the knowledge of schoolchildren about tooth avulsion, first aid, and replantation.
The Prognostic Value of Estrogen Receptor β Isoform With Correlation of Estrogen Receptor α Among Sudanese Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Shalabi Manar G , Abbas Anass M , Mills Jeremy , Kheirelseid Mohamed A , Elderdery Abozer Y
Published: February 2021

Two estrogen receptor isoforms (ERα and ERβ) have been characterized with variable and sometimes contrasting responses to estrogens, partially explained by different receptor signaling pathways in estrogen-sensitive tissues. This is a retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study, aiming to evaluate the expression pattern of ERβ, employing immunohistochemical techniques using specific monoclonal antibody for ERβ, to correlate its expression with that of ERα in a Sudanese population. Two-hundred and fifty formalin-fixed paraffin-wax-embedded breast tissue blocks were used in this study. Of these, 200 were taken from breast cancer patients ascertained as study cases, and the remaining 50 were noninvolved surgical margin considered as normal breast tissue. Receptor expression was demonstrated using immunohistochemical techniques. The immune expression of ERβ was detected in 57.5% of breast cancers. It was differentially expressed in breast tissues encompassing normal, noninvasive, as well as invasive carcinoma ( P = .02). There was no evidence of a significant relationship between ERβ and ERα expression. Among the ERα-negative tumor, 60.4% expressed ERβ. The expression of ERβ among this subgroup was significantly associated with good clinicopathological parameters such as negative Her2/neu, lower grade, and negative lymph node metastasis ( P = .002). This study concludes that ERβ was commonly expressed among Sudanese patients with breast cancer, either co-expressed with ERα or expressed alone. In the ERα-negative subgroup, it was associated with better tumor outcomes suggesting ERβ should be included in the diagnostic protocol as an independent marker for favorable prognosis.
Plasma neurofilament light chain levels are predictors of disease activity in multiple sclerosis as measured by four-domain NEDA status, including brain volume loss
Authors: Szilasiová Jarmila , Mikula Pavol , Rosenberger Jaroslav , Fedičová Miriam , Gdovinová Zuzana , Urban Peter , Frigová Lýdia
Published: February 2021

Background:

The research is focused on sensitive biomarkers in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between plasma neurofilament light chain (pNfL) and disease activity as defined by the concept NEDA (no evident disease activity), including brain volumetry, in a cohort of MS patients treated with disease-modifying treatment (DMT).

Methods:

Levels of pNfL (Single Molecule Array (SIMOA) technology) were examined in 95 RRMS (relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis) patients and analyzed in relationship to NEDA-3 status and NEDA-BVL (brain volume loss; NEDA-3 extended by brain volumetry) during the last 12 months. The statistical model was developed using logistic regression analysis, including the independent variables: demographic, clinical, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. Dependent variables were NEDA-3 and NEDA-BVL status.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants ( n = 95, 62% females) was 37.85 years (standard deviation (SD) = 9.62) and the median disability score was 3.5 (2.5–4.1). Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis showed that pNfL predicts NEDA-3 (the sensitivity and specificity of the model were 92% and 78%, respectively, p < 0.001) and NEDA-BVL status (the sensitivity and specificity were 80% and 65%, respectively, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The results show that pNfL levels are a useful biomarker of disease activity determined by NEDA-BVL status, including brain MRI-volumetry in patients with RRMS.
‘Scene’ as a critical framing device: Extending analysis of chemsex cultures
Authors: Drysdale Kerryn
Published: February 2021

The term ‘chemsex’ references an identifiable set of circumstances and behaviours ascribed to gay male culture at the same time as operating as a politically salient category capable of spurring policy and programmatic responses. Increasingly, the word ‘scene’ is used in association with ‘chemsex’ in media reporting, expert commentary and research on the phenomenon. Rather than dismissing the coupling of chemsex and scene as mere vernacular, ‘scene’ offers a fruitful entry point for exploring how the combination of sex and drugs achieves cultural salience over time. In this article, I read chemsex cultures through the material and representational elements characteristic of ‘scene’. By emphasizing scenes’ temporal logics, I speculate on the value of this alternative approach in generating new understandings of chemsex cultures.
Development and validation of a scale to measure the resilience of schools: Perspectives of young people from vulnerable and challenging territories
Authors: Milheiro Silva Ana , Marques da Silva Sofia
Published: February 2021

This article presents the development and validation of a scale for young people, which measures the resilience of schools in ensuring the educational pathways of students in vulnerable and challenging territories. This scale was developed within a national-level project, conducted in Portuguese border regions with Spain, which are peripheral contexts with economic, social, cultural, and educational disadvantages, but with locally-situated promising dynamics.

Resilient schools, from an ecological perspective, are sensitive and committed to their internal and external settings. These schools act as a whole to face problem solving and risk situations, while also needing to support youth educational pathways and fulfill their role. This is particularly important in contexts with territorial disparities and specificities, as is the case of border regions.

The Resilience Scale of Schools – Youth Version (RSS-Y) integrates dimensions related to schools’ focus and priorities, as well as practices and resources. Its development took into consideration that schools in vulnerable territories deal with specific constraints and fewer opportunities. In addition, this scale seeks to study the characteristics of resilience that young people identify in their schools and how they perceive their schools’ support.

This quantitative scale was developed following a multi-step approach and was applied to 3,968 young people (9th to 12th grade). It comprises 17 items, rated on a five-point Likert scale to assess agreement.

Statistical analysis ensure the internal consistency (Factor 1, α = .846; Factor 2, α = .845; Factor 3, α = .789) and the validity of this scale, indicating adequate psychometric properties to measure students’ perspectives on the resilience characteristics of schools. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) proposes a three-factor structure that explains 57.393% of the total variance. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) indicates that this model is a good fit with the data.

The RSS-Y can provide an important contribution to educational research developed in more deprived territories, but also to school contexts, since it recognizes the importance of schools’ differentiated approaches and highlights characteristics that promote the resilience and quality of schools.
Review on impact response of reinforced concrete beams: Contemporary understanding and unsolved problems
Authors: Pham Thong M , Chen Wensu , Hao Hong
Published: February 2021

Designing protective reinforced concrete (RC) beams against impact loadings is a challenging task. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the structural response of RC beams subjected to impact loads. Significant research efforts have been spent to unveil the impact response of RC beams by using analytical models, experimental testing, or numerical investigations. However, these studies used various assumptions in the analytical derivations and different test setups in the impact testing, which led to significantly different responses and observations of similar structures and similar loading conditions. For example, a minor change in contact surface can triple the maximum impact force of identical RC beams. This study provides a review of the contemporary understandings of the RC beam responses to impact loads, and explains the different observations and conclusions. Some unsolved issues for protective structures, that is, RC beams to resist impulsive loads are also discussed. It is suggested that future studies should take into consideration the conditions of the test setup, simplifications and assumptions made in analytical derivations for better interpretations of the obtained results.
The characteristics of institutional R&D investment in the STEM field under policy streams over time
Authors: Hwang Youngsik
Published: February 2021

The STEM field has contributed significantly to the development of society because its findings result in new technology, which gives people more efficient tools and methods for a better standard of living. Postsecondary institutions have trained STEM field graduates through advanced curricula and learning environments. Compared to other academic fields, STEM requires more monetary support for research from the institution or the government because STEM research often requires expensive equipment installation or the introduction of new technologies. This paper overviews institutional support for STEM education and research by the regime of recent U.S. governments and examines the characteristics of R&D (research and development) expenditure. The results indicate that the R&D expenditures of the STEM field show continuous support for the different type of institutions, regardless of governments over time. However, they have tried to diversify the R&D investment by the type of R&D field and institutional type. Even though the government has tried to increase the total size of R&D expenditure through various resources, they still need to consider the equity and diversity issues for even further R&D investment strategies. A further research direction would search for the detailed action and strategies to support the STEM field according to their types of support or expectation.
Game algorithm based on link quality: Wireless sensor network routing game algorithm based on link quality
Authors: Hao Zhanjun , Hou Jiaojiao , Dang Jianwu , Dang Xiaochao , Qu Nanjiang
Published: February 2021

Aiming at the problems of low data transmission efficiency and uneven energy consumption caused by unreliable link communication in the routing process of wireless sensor networks, this article designs a routing game algorithm based on link quality. In this article, the index for evaluating link quality is defined first. Then, the link quality, node residual energy, and minimum jump transmission strategy are integrated into the utility function to establish a game model to determine the best next hop transmission node. Finally, the routing optimal transmission path is obtained according to the analysis of the existence of Nash equilibrium in the game. In the simulation experiment, the influence of the change of link quality parameters on the performance of the algorithm is analyzed, and the proposed algorithm is compared with non-linear weight particle swarm optimization (NWPSO) algorithm and Low Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy-Improvement (LEACH-IMPT) algorithm in three aspects: the number of surviving nodes, network lifetime, and network energy consumption. The results show that the network lifetime of this method is 16.8% longer than that of LEACH-IMPT algorithm and 7.5% longer than that of NWPSO algorithm. This shows that the algorithm can effectively balance the network energy consumption and prolong the network life cycle. In addition, according to the routing path obtained in the simulation experiment, the optimality of its link quality is verified in the real experimental environment, and the experimental results prove the feasibility of the method in this article in practice.
A nationwide analysis on the effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease following primary total shoulder arthroplasty for glenohumeral osteoarthritis
Authors: Amirian Brandon , Akhnoukh Kyrillos M , Ashraf Asad M , Swiggett Samuel J , Rosato Francis E , Vakharia Rushabh M , Sadeghpour Ramin , Razi Afshin E
Published: February 2021

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients have been shown in orthopedic literature to have poorer outcomes and higher rates of complications from surgery. In this retrospective review, medical complications, length of stay, and costs were obtained to explore the effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on patients undergoing primary total shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods

Total shoulder arthroplasty cases from January 2005 to March 2014 were queried and analyzed from a nationwide database. Study patients were matched 1:5 to controls by age, sex, and medical comorbidities associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In-hospital length of stay, 90-day medical complications, day of surgery, and total global 90-day episode of care costs were obtained for comparison.

Results

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients were found to have higher incidence and odds (53.91 vs. 11.95%; OR: 3.58, 95%CI: 3.18–3.92, p < 0.0001) of 90-day medical complications, longer in-hospital length of stay (3 vs. 2 days, p < 0.0001), and significantly higher 90-day costs ($14,768.37 vs. $13,379.20, p < 0.0001) following primary total shoulder arthroplasty compared to matched controls.

Discussion

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients undergoing primary total shoulder arthroplasty have higher rates of medical complications, in-hospital length of stay, and costs of care. This represents an important factor that will allow orthopedic surgeons to adequately manage expectations and educate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients of the potential complications which may occur following total shoulder arthroplasty.
Pathophysiology of musculoskeletal pain: a narrative review
Authors: Puntillo Filomena , Giglio Mariateresa , Paladini Antonella , Perchiazzi Gaetano , Viswanath Omar , Urits Ivan , Sabbà Carlo , Varrassi Giustino , Brienza Nicola
Published: February 2021

Musculoskeletal pain (excluding bone cancer pain) affects more than 30% of the global population and imposes an enormous burden on patients, families, and caregivers related to functional limitation, emotional distress, effects on mood, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. The pathogenic mechanisms of musculoskeletal pain relate to the differential sensory innervation of bones, joints, and muscles as opposed to skin and involve a number of peripheral and central nervous system cells and mediators. The interplay of neurons and non-neural cells (e.g. glial, mesenchymal, and immune cells) amplifies and sensitizes pain signals in a manner that leads to cortical remodeling. Moreover, sex, age, mood, and social factors, together with beliefs, thoughts, and pain behaviors influence the way in which musculoskeletal pain manifests and is understood and assessed. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the different pathogenic mechanisms underlying musculoskeletal pain and how these mechanisms interact to promote the transition from acute to chronic pain.
An Integrated Ecological Approach to Mapping Variations in Collectivism Within China: Introducing the Triple-Line Framework
Authors: Ren Xiaopeng , Cang Xiaohui , Ryder Andrew G.
Published: February 2021

Measurable regional variations in collectivism have been found across the Chinese mainland, challenging the simple classification of China as a “collectivistic society” in cross-national studies. In previous studies, a small number of distal or proximal ecological factors have been used to explain these regional variations of collectivism. However, there has been little consensus on which ecological factors best predict regional collectivism. In this article, the authors propose the “triple-line framework,” an integrated perspective on regional variations in collectivism. This framework divides China into four regions using three lines—the Hu Huanyong Line, the Great Wall Line, and the Qinling–Huaihe Line—according to their ecological, historical, and social characteristics. A growing body of empirical research is largely consistent with this framework. The authors conclude by discussing the potential for this framework to generate new, testable hypotheses and consider some ways in which this approach to intranational variation could be used by cultural psychologists working in other parts of the world.
High-Energy Achilles Tendon Rupture With Associated Medial Malleolus Fracture and Traumatic Peroneal Dislocation: A Case Report
Authors: Bowers Mark , Hunt Kenneth J. , Metzl Joshua
Published: February 2021

Fracture, Achilles tendon rupture, or traumatic dislocation of the peroneal tendons are often seen in isolation after a trauma or sports-related injury. However, in rare circumstances, a combination of these injuries can occur simultaneously. Multiple previous case reports describe a combination of 2 of these injuries. Missed or delayed diagnosis is common in these combination injuries and can lead to significant patient morbidity and result in long-term consequences. We report a case of a 35-year-old man who sustained an Achilles tendon rupture with an associated medial malleolus fracture and traumatic peroneal dislocation after a snowboarding injury. These injuries were treated surgically, and at 9 months postoperatively, the patient had returned to all activities. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for concomitant injuries with higher-energy trauma to the ankle and should perform a thorough history, physical examination, and plain radiographs at a minimum.

Levels of Evidence: LEVEL 5
Changes in Immunologic Indicators During Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis and Determinants of Variability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Jiang Zihan , Xiao Hao , Liu Shixi , Meng Juan
Published: February 2021

Background

To date, there are no generally recognized biomarkers for allergen immunotherapy (AIT) and even the changes in immunological indicators during AIT are inconsistent in different publications.

Objective

This study was conducted to quantify the immunological changes that occur during AIT and identify the determinants of heterogeneity.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials of AIT published in the past 10 years were searched in Medline, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL. Data on immunological indicators were extracted, and the characteristics of the included studies were collected. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were conducted for each indicator. The study was registered on the PROSPERO website (CRD42020176127).

Results

We reviewed 1898 studies. Forty-six studies met the inclusion criteria, and 31 studies were included in the quantitative analyses. Subset analyses by time demonstrated that serum allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) of AIT patients increased in the first 12 months, then decreased and became slightly lower than that of control patients. Allergen-specific IgG4 (sIgG4) was elevated in the AIT group during and after treatment. IgE-blocking factor (IgE-BF) was increased and IgE-facilitated allergen binding (IgE-FAB) was reduced in AIT patients. Both of them of the 2 factors were associated with clinical efficacy in the multivariate regression analysis. sIgE/sIgG4 decreased in AIT patients, while there was no change in total IgE.

Conclusion

The levels of serum sIgE and sIgG4 during AIT showed a time-dependent pattern. IgE-BF and IgE-FAB should be further investigated as biomarkers for predicting and monitoring AIT efficacy.
Expanded access to multiple sclerosis teleneurology care following the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: McGinley Marisa P , Gales Shauna , Rowles William , Wang Zhini , Hsu Wan-Yu , Amezcua Lilyana , Bove Riley
Published: February 2021

Background

Teleneurology for multiple sclerosis (MS) care was considered feasible, but utilization was limited.

Objective

To describe how the existing teleneurology populations at two academic MS Centers changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we captured all in-person and teleneurology visits at two academic MS Centers between January 2019 and April 2020. We compared group differences between the Centers, and COVID-related changes using T-, chi-squared Kruskal-Wallis and Fisher exact tests.

Results

2268 patients completed 2579 teleneurology visits (mean age 48.3 ± 13.3 years, 72.9% female). Pre-COVID, the Centers’ teleneurology populations were similar for age, sex, MS type, and disability level (all p > 0.1), but differed for race (96.5% vs 80.7% white, p ≤ 0.001), MS treatment (49.1% vs 32.1% infusible, p ≤ 0.001), and median distance from Center (72 vs 186 miles, p ≤ 0.001). Post-COVID, both Centers’ teleneurology populations had more black (12.7% vs 4.37%, p ≤ 0.001) and local (median 34.5 vs 102 miles, p ≤ 0.001) patients.

Conclusion

Teleneurology visits in 2019 reflected the organizational and local teleneurology reimbursement patterns of our Centers. Our post-COVID-19 changes illustrate the potential for payors and policy to change disparities in access to, or utilization of, remote care. Patients’ perception of care quality and value following this shift warrants study.
Troubling Dialogue and Digital Media: A Subaltern Critique
Authors: Place Katie R. , Ciszek Erica
Published: February 2021

Over the past several decades, scholars have explored dialogue and digital media. While this scholarship has advanced strategic communication theory, it lacks a critical focus on how marginalized groups have been written out of these theories and practices. We bring a critical lens to dialogue, employing a subaltern critique to elevate the experiences and voices of members of an activist group working on behalf of low-income, minority women. Advancing theoretical and empirical work on dialogue and social media, our study approaches activist communication and dialogue through a co-optation orientation, to consider how advocacy groups are co-opted or erased through dialogic methods entailed in dominant discourses and how these groups exert agency and resistance. While social media may not always help activists penetrate the walls upheld by powerful social actors, they offer connective and transformative possibilities.
Improving Business Processes in a Construction Project and Increasing Performance by Using Target Costing
Authors: Oncioiu Ionica , Căpuşneanu Sorinel , Topor Dan Ioan , Ifrim Ana Maria , Silvestru Ramona Camelia , Toader Monica Ioana
Published: February 2021

This article demonstrates, on one hand, how organizations are able to optimize their business processes to streamline their activities and, on the other hand, how performance can be enhanced by using the target cost method in a construction project. Based on the analysis of national and international literature, the authors carried out a quantitative and qualitative study based on a questionnaire containing a set of four questions aimed at highlighting the issues mentioned in the launched objectives. Business process-specific steps in a construction project are described and analyzed. The case study outlines how to optimize business processes by using Swimlane charts and how to reduce operating costs by applying the target cost method. The article concludes with our conclusions about the real benefits of optimizing business processes in a construction project by using the target cost method and increasing the performance of entities in this field.
Government Size and Economic Growth: An Empirical Examination of Selected Emerging Economies
Authors: Jain Megha , Nagpal Aishwarya , Jain Abhay
Published: February 2021

The current study attempts to examine the linkage between government (public) spending and economic growth in the broader framework of selected South Asian Nations (SANs), BRICS and other emerging nations by using two sets of empirical modelling over the period 2007–2016 by using inverted U-shaped hypothesis, propounded by Armey curve (1995). The first set has employed system GMM technique to explore the presence of the Armey curve hypothesis using the square term of government size, while the second set has used the threshold regression using system GMM panel modelling to investigate the subsequent reversals (tipping point). The key findings signify the existence of an inverted U-shaped relationship for the selected data set of emerging nations and, therefore, support the Armey curve hypothesis. The projected threshold (tipping) levels (as a percentage of GDP) are 24.31% for the government total expenditures (GTotExp), 12.92% for consumption spending (GConExp) and 7.11% for investment spending (GInvExp). It has been observed that a rise in the public spending (size) resulted in a substantial increase (decrease) in the growth rate when the public spending was before (after) the optimal threshold level, indicating a non-monotonic association. The findings of the study also suggest a policy implication that public spending could only be a short-term measure to deal with crises in any nation, but not a long-term solution.

JEL Classification: C23, C33, E60, E62, H00, H50, O40, O50
A Rare Triad: Hypercalcemia-Induced Necrotizing Pancreatitis Presenting as Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Mills Krystal , Aniekwena Judith , Cochran Tiffany , Nsofor Echezona , Bakinde Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) typically occurs in persons above 45 years, with a female predominance. PHPT induces a state of hypercalcemia, but acute pancreatitis is a rare sequelae of this hypercalcemia. We report a case of a 31-year-old man with no known medical history who presented in diabetic ketoacidosis with electrolyte abnormalities. His clinical course progressed to multi-organ dysfunction despite correction of metabolic derangements. Further workup led to the discovery of the uncommon triad by which previously undiagnosed PHPT precipitated severe diabetic ketoacidosis.