bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Nonlinear Effect of Intellectual Capital on Financial Performance: Evidence from Listed Shipping Companies in China
Authors: Xu Jian , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2021

Intellectual capital (IC) is reckoned as a significant driving force of competitive advantage and financial sustainability of any organization. The study’s objective is to explore the nonlinear effect of IC and its components on financial performance (FP) of China’s listed shipping companies over a six‐year period (2014–2019). The modified Value Added Intellectual Coefficient (MVAIC) model is used to systematically assess IC. The empirical results show an inverted U‐shaped relationship between the aggregate IC and FP (measured through return on assets). Regarding IC components, human, relational, and innovation capitals have an inverted U‐shaped relationship with FP, while the quadratic relationship between structural capital and FP is not significant. In addition, physical capital has a U‐shaped relationship with FP. This study will offer some new insights for corporate managers to improve firms’ FP by effectively utilizing their IC resources.
Value Preferences and Intergenerational Differences of Tourists to Traditional Chinese Villages
Authors: Qi Wei , Li Lin , Zhong Jie
Published: August 2021

Tourist values determine the behavior of tourists. To pinpoint the behaviors and preferences of tourists, it is necessary to explore their value orientation and intergenerational differences. The exploration is of great significance to the activation of tourism in traditional villages. After analyzing the value of tourists to two traditional villages (Hongcun and Xidi), this paper investigated the value preferences and intergenerational differences of tourists of four generations to traditional villages, using means-end chain (MEC) theory and hard laddering. Through a questionnaire survey on tourists born in the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, the authors established 36 MEC value chains of 18 classes. The results show that the post-60s traditional village tourists are a generation of wisdom-loving learners, who prefer the values of wisdom and self-improvement; the post-70s and 80s tourists are a generation of beauty lovers with a strong sense of belonging, who prefer the values of beautiful world, inner harmony, and sense of belonging; the post-90s tourists are a generation of inclusive advocators of diversity, with no special value preference. These results provide theoretical support and practical enlightenment for the market segmentation of traditional village tourism and the protection and activation of traditional villages.
Effect of Gegen Qinlian Decoction on Hepatic Gluconeogenesis in ZDF Rats with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Based on the Farnesol X Receptor/Ceramide Signaling Pathway Regulating Mitochondrial Metabolism and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Zhou Qi , Song Ning , Wang Shi-qi , Wang Yan , Zhao Yi-kun , Zhu Xiang-dong
Published: August 2021

Background. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a kind of disorder of glucose and lipid metabolism with the main clinical manifestation of long‐term higher blood glucose level than the normal value. Farnesol X receptor (FXR)/ceramide signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating cholesterol metabolism, lipid homeostasis, and the absorption of fat and vitamins in diet. Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) is a classical herbal formula, which has a good clinical therapeutic effect on diabetes-related metabolic syndrome. Objective. To investigate the effect of Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) on hepatic gluconeogenesis in obese T2DM rats based on the FXR/ceramide signaling pathway regulating mitochondrial metabolism and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). Methods. ZDF (fa/fa) rats were fed with high-fat diet to establish the T2DM model; GQD was given to T2DM model rats by gavage; changes of the general state and body weight of rats were recorded; fasting blood glucose was detected; blood insulin, blood ceramide, glycosylated hemoglobin in blood, acetyl CoA in liver mitochondria, and bile salt lyase in intestinal tissue were detected by ELISA. The content of T-β-MCA in blood was detected by LC-MS; the content of glycogen in liver tissue was detected by PAS staining; the expression of FXR, Sptlc2, and Smpd3 in ileum tissue, P-PERK, ATF6α, GRP78 BIP, and P-IRE1 in the liver, and CS and PC protein in liver mitochondria was detected by immunohistochemistry and western blot assay. The mRNA expression levels of FXR, Sptlc2, and Smpd3 in the ileum, PERK, ATF6α, GRP78 BIP, and IRE1 in the liver, and CS and PC in liver mitochondria were detected by qRT-PCR. Results. GQD can improve the general state of T2DM rats, slow down their weight gain, reduce the levels of fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, blood ceramide, bile salt hydrolase in intestinal tissue, and acetyl CoA in liver mitochondria of T2DM rats, and increase the contents of liver glycogen and T-β-MCA in blood of T2DM rats. At the molecular level, GQD can inhibit the expression levels of FXR, Sptlc2, and Smpd3 in the ileum of T2DM rats and the protein and mRNA expression levels of oxidative stress-related factors in the liver. At the same time, GQD can increase the expression of CS and reduce the expression of PC in liver mitochondria of T2DM rats. Conclusion. GQD can inhibit the FXR/ceramide signaling pathway, regulate endoplasmic reticulum stress, enhance the CS activity of liver mitochondria, reduce the acetyl CoA level and PC activity of liver mitochondria, inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis, protect islet β-cells, and control blood glucose.
Allogeneic CAR Invariant Natural Killer T Cells Exert Potent Antitumor Effects through Host CD8 T-Cell Cross-Priming
Authors: Simonetta Federico , Lohmeyer Juliane K. , Hirai Toshihito , Maas-Bauer Kristina , Alvarez Maite , Wenokur Arielle S. , Baker Jeanette , Aalipour Amin , Ji Xuhuai , Haile Samuel , Mackall Crystal L. , Negrin Robert S.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

The development of allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies for off-the-shelf use is a major goal that faces two main immunologic challenges, namely the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) induction by the transferred cells and the rejection by the host immune system limiting their persistence. In this work we assessed the direct and indirect antitumor effect of allogeneic CAR-engineered invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, a cell population without GvHD-induction potential that displays immunomodulatory properties.

Experimental Design:

After assessing murine CAR iNKT cells direct antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo, we employed an immunocompetent mouse model of B-cell lymphoma to assess the interaction between allogeneic CAR iNKT cells and endogenous immune cells.

Results:

We demonstrate that allogeneic CAR iNKT cells exerted potent direct and indirect antitumor activity when administered across major MHC barriers by inducing tumor-specific antitumor immunity through host CD8 T-cell cross-priming.

Conclusions:

In addition to their known direct cytotoxic effect, allogeneic CAR iNKT cells induce host CD8 T-cell antitumor responses, resulting in a potent antitumor effect lasting longer than the physical persistence of the allogeneic cells. The utilization of off-the-shelf allogeneic CAR iNKT cells could meet significant unmet needs in the clinic.
Embracing TVET education: The effectiveness of project based learning on secondary school students’ achievement
Authors: Isa Zaharah Che , Azid Nurulwahida
Published: August 2021

Project based learning (PBL) has long been used especially in developing countries. Various results of PBL-related studies have also been found to be effective and have a positive impact on students. However, although it has been introduced in Malaysia, it is still considered foreign to students and teachers. Therefore, this study was conducted to look at the effectiveness of applying the PBL method in the topic of project design on form two students' learning process. An experimental study with mixed method approach was conducted through pre and post-tests on one control and one treatment group. A total of 60 form two students were involved, of which 30 were treatment students and another 30 were control students. Five students from the treatment group were randomly selected to go through a semi structured interview process. This interview was conducted to confirm the results of the quantitative study. The results of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) showed that students in the PBL group performed significantly better in project design learning process than those in the contrast group. Therefore, this study demonstrated that the PBL method had a positive impact on students' learning process. Based on the interviews, all respondents agreed that PBL was an excellent approach because the learning activities were interesting and different from the normal learning environment. In addition, the interview results also showed that the respondents suggested that the PBL method should be continued and implemented in other topics and subjects.
Wizer.me and Socrative as innovative teaching method tools: Integrating TPACK and Social Learning Theory
Authors: Kaliappen Narentheren , Ismail Wan Nurisma Ayu , Ghani Ahmad Bashawir Abdul , Sulisworo Dwi
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this paper is to share a lecturer’s viewpoint on using Wizer.me and Socrative applications as an innovative teaching method integrating TPACK and Social Learning Theory (SLT) at higher education. The applications were used to teach 44 undergraduate students who registered for Cross-Cultural Management course at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). At first, the lecturer used Wizer.me before the class starts and requesting the students to answer several questions before coming to the class. After completing each chapter, the students requested to answer some questions using Socrative application to test their understanding level. The research revealed that at the beginning of the semester, the students not aware of these two applications. However, at the end of the semester, every student familiar with these applications and overall provided positive feedback on the usage of Wizer.me and Socrative application in the teaching and learning process. This study used IntenCheck sentiment analysis software to evaluate the students’ feedback. Student’s opinion on using Wizer.me and Socrative application as an innovative teaching method not explored before at UUM. Therefore, this viewpoint could provide useful insight for university lecturers to use these applications in their teaching and learning process.
Compliance na área da saúde?
Authors: Siva Ana Paula Gonzatti da
Published: August 2021

O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar a necessidade de programas de compliance na área da saúde de acordo com o ordenamento jurídico brasileiro. Para tanto, o método utilizado foi o levantamento bibliográfico e legislativo, perspectivando o tema a partir de uma análise teórico-legislativa. O trabalho está dividido em dois grandes blocos. Em um primeiro momento, buscou desvelar os principais contornos do compliance, a partir de suas raízes histórico-legislativas, seu conceito e sua finalidade. De posse desse referencial, definiram-se as razões pelas quais o instituto aplica-se aos serviços clínico-hospitalares, assim como os principais desafios que se colocam em sua adoção por essas pessoas coletivas.
Cardiac Myoediting Attenuates Cardiac Abnormalities in Human and Mouse Models of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Atmanli Ayhan , Chai Andreas C. , Cui Miao , Wang Zhaoning , Nishiyama Takahiko , Bassel-Duby Rhonda , Olson Eric N.
Published: August 2021

Rationale:

Absence of dystrophin in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) results in the degeneration of skeletal and cardiac muscles. Owing to advances in respiratory management of patients with DMD, cardiomyopathy has become a significant aspect of the disease. While CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology holds great potential as a novel therapeutic avenue for DMD, little is known about the potential of DMD correction using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to mitigate cardiac abnormalities in DMD.

Objective:

To define the effects of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing on structural, functional, and transcriptional abnormalities in DMD-associated cardiac disease.

Methods and Results:

We generated induced pluripotent stem cells from a patient with a deletion of exon 44 of the DMD gene (ΔEx44) and his healthy brother. We targeted exon 45 of the DMD gene by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to generate corrected DMD induced pluripotent stem cell lines, wherein the DMD open reading frame was restored via reframing or exon skipping. While DMD cardiomyocytes demonstrated morphological, structural, and functional deficits compared with control cardiomyocytes, cardiomyocytes from both corrected DMD lines were similar to control cardiomyocytes. Bulk RNA-sequencing of DMD cardiomyocytes showed transcriptional dysregulation consistent with dilated cardiomyopathy, which was mitigated in corrected DMD cardiomyocytes. We then corrected dysfunctional DMD cardiomyocytes by adenoviral delivery of Cas9/gRNA and showed that correction of DMD cardiomyocytes postdifferentiation reduces their arrhythmogenic potential. Single-nucleus RNA-sequencing of hearts of DMD mice showed transcriptional dysregulation in cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts, which in corrected mice was reduced to similar levels as wild-type mice.

Conclusions:

We show that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated correction of DMD ΔEx44 mitigates structural, functional, and transcriptional abnormalities consistent with dilated cardiomyopathy irrespective of how the protein reading frame is restored. We show that these effects extend to postnatal editing in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes and mice. These findings provide key insights into the utility of genome editing as a novel therapeutic for DMD-associated cardiomyopathy.
Mediterranean Diet Reduces Atherosclerosis Progression in Coronary Heart Disease: An Analysis of the CORDIOPREV Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jimenez-Torres Jose , Alcalá-Diaz Juan F. , Torres-Peña Jose D. , Gutierrez-Mariscal Francisco M. , Leon-Acuña Ana , Gómez-Luna Purificación , Fernández-Gandara Carolina , Quintana-Navarro Gracia M. , Fernandez-Garcia Jose C. , Perez-Martinez Pablo , Ordovas Jose M. , Delgado-Lista Javier , Yubero-Serrano Elena M. , Lopez-Miranda Jose
Published: August 2021

Background and Purpose:

Lifestyle and diet affect cardiovascular risk, although there is currently no consensus about the best dietary model for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. The CORDIOPREV study (Coronary Diet Intervention With Olive Oil and Cardiovascular Prevention) is an ongoing prospective, randomized, single-blind, controlled trial in 1002 coronary heart disease patients, whose primary objective is to compare the effect of 2 healthy dietary patterns (low-fat rich in complex carbohydrates versus Mediterranean diet rich in extra virgin olive oil) on the incidence of cardiovascular events. Here, we report the results of one secondary outcome of the CORDIOPREV study. Thus, to evaluate the efficacy of these diets in reducing cardiovascular disease risk. Intima-media thickness of both common carotid arteries (IMT-CC) was ultrasonically assessed bilaterally. IMT-CC is a validated surrogate for the status and future cardiovascular disease risk.

Methods:

From the total participants, 939 completed IMT-CC evaluation at baseline and were randomized to follow a Mediterranean diet (35% fat, 22% monounsaturated fatty acids, <50% carbohydrates) or a low-fat diet (28% fat, 12% monounsaturated fatty acids, >55% carbohydrates) with IMT-CC measurements at 5 and 7 years. We also analyzed the carotid plaque number and height.

Results:

The Mediterranean diet decreased IMT-CC at 5 years (−0.027±0.008 mm;
P
<0.001), maintained at 7 years (−0.031±0.008 mm;
P
<0.001), compared to baseline. The low-fat diet did not modify IMT-CC. IMT-CC and carotid plaque
max
height were higher decreased after the Mediterranean diet, compared to the low-fat diet, throughout follow-up. Baseline IMT-CC had the strongest association with the changes in IMT-CC after the dietary intervention.

Conclusions:

Long-term consumption of a Mediterranean diet rich in extravirgin olive oil, if compared to a low-fat diet, was associated with decreased atherosclerosis progression, as shown by reduced IMT-CC and carotid plaque height. These findings reinforce the clinical benefits of the Mediterranean diet in the context of secondary cardiovascular prevention.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00924937.
Prevalence, Impact, and Treatment of Co-Occurring Osteoarthritis in Patients With Stroke Undergoing Rehabilitation
Authors: Fournier John , Finestone Hillel , Lauzon Julia , Campbell T. Mark
Published: August 2021

Background and Purpose:

Early, frequent rehabilitation is an important factor for optimizing stroke recovery outcomes. Medical comorbidities, such as osteoarthritis, that affect the ability to participate in rehabilitation could therefore have a detrimental impact on such outcomes. Both stroke and osteoarthritis are becoming more common in developed nations as the population ages. First-line osteoarthritis treatments, such as oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are often avoided poststroke due to interaction with secondary prevention stroke risk-factor management. Our objective was to summarize the current literature concerning co-occurring osteoarthritis and stroke prevalence, its functional impact, and treatment options.

Methods:

Narrative review using a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, osteoarthritis, and stroke guidelines. Outcomes related to co-occurrence prevalence, osteoarthritis as a stroke risk-factor, osteoarthritis-related imaging and treatment were extracted and summarized descriptively. Overall quality of the evidence was summarized using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

Results:

We identified 23 studies and guidelines related to our objective. Overall quality of the evidence was very low.

Conclusions:

Few trials have investigated the relationship between osteoarthritis and stroke, nor osteoarthritis-specific pain and function management for stroke survivors. High-quality research evaluating the impact of osteoarthritis on stroke rehabilitation is needed.
The New York Digital Salon: A Memoir
Authors: Wands Bruce
Published: August 2021

This article traces the 20-year history of the New York Digital Salon (NYDS). Initiated in 1993 to provide an annual venue for digita art images in New York City, the NYDS quickly expanded into an international forum for exhibitions, lectures, screenings and a website. The salon also featured panel discussions with well-known digital artists and curators in its 2002 Digital Art & Culture Symposium. From 1995 to 2002, salon artworks and essays were featured in eight issues of Leonardo. In 2013, the salon’s 20th-anniversary celebration included an exhibition and catalog featuring Jean Pierre Hébert, Manfred Mohr, Michael Noll, Roman Verostko and Mark Wilson.
Philosophical Musings Drawn from the Gadamer-Cheng Dialogue of May 2000
Authors: Pfister Lauren F.
Published: August 2021

A critical summary and reflective assessment of the Chinese account of the dialogue that occurred between Hans-Georg Gadamer (1900–2002) and Chung-ying Cheng (1935-) in Heidelberg in May 2000 is presented for the first time in English within this article. It ends with an account of the ontological nature of Sprache/language as both philosophers deal with this key term in Gadamerian philosophic hermeneutics.
Historicizing Secularity
Authors: Wohlrab-Sahr Monika , Kleine Christoph
Published: August 2021

Drawing upon the critique of secularization theory, especially its lack of historical depth, this article outlines a research agenda that focuses on a specific – but fundamental – aspect of secularization: it aims at the historicization of conceptual distinctions and institutional differentiations between the religious and the secular. The authors employ the heuristic concept of ‘secularity’ to refer to these demarcations, and argue that secularization studies should give due consideration to their historical predecessors in various world regions. This seems important against the background of enduring criticisms, which consider such distinctions and differentiations either as an exclusively Western achievement or as a colonial imposition on non-Western regions. Taking into account the development of different historical paths, the authors highlight the transcultural, but in its concrete shape nevertheless culturally specific emergence of distinctions and differentiations related to religion, and propose secularity as a tertium comparationis for comparative research in this field. The authors introduce two different religious and societal settings in the medieval period – Japanese Buddhism and Islam in the Middle East – in order to illustrate the divergent ideational and structural backgrounds to the development of relations between the religious and the secular.
Likes, Comments, and Follow Requests: The Instagram User Experiences of Young Muslim Women in the Netherlands
Authors: Mahmudova Lale , Evolvi Giulia
Published: August 2021

Young Dutch Muslim women often lead complex existences: on the one hand, they may be considered “other” to European culture and expected to conform to so-called Western values; on the other hand, they can be subject to scrutiny within their cultural and religious communities. This article explores young Dutch Muslim women’s online practices by focusing on Instagram. By discussing the theories of third spaces (Bhabha, 1994; Pennington, 2018b) and composite habitus (Bourdieu, 1990; Waltorp, 2015), we investigate the following questions: How do young Dutch Muslim women use Instagram? What are the opportunities and constraints that they face when using Instagram? Through qualitative interviews, we discovered that Instagram helps young Dutch Muslim women express their identity in their own terms, but it presents negative aspects connected with privacy and surveillance. We then discuss the need not to generalize Muslim women’s experiences and instead to consider their selective use of Instagram and heterogeneity within Islam.
Morphology and phylogenetic analyses reveal Montagnula puerensis sp. nov. (Didymosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales) from southwest China
Authors: DU TIANYE , HYDE KEVIN D. , MAPOOK AUSANA , MORTIMER PETER E. , XU JIANCHU , KARUNARATHNA SAMANTHA C. , TIBPROMMA SAOWALUCK
Published: August 2021

A dead woody sample of Acer sp. with fungal fruiting bodies was collected in Pu’er City of Yunnan Province. Multigene phylogenetic analyses of LSU, ITS, SSU, and tef1-α sequence data showed that our collection belongs to Montagnula and is well separated from all other extant species. Montagnula puerensis is compared with all extant species by morphological characteristics, culture characteristics, host, and location information and is the first report of Montagnula from the host genus Acer.
Influence of Eurasian spring snowmelt on surface air temperature in late spring and early summer
Authors: Zhou Juan , Zuo Zhiyan , He Qiong
Published: August 2021

The effect of Eurasian spring snowmelt on surface air temperature (SAT) in late spring (April–May) and early summer (June–July) and the relevant physical mechanisms during 1981–2016 are investigated. Results show that the first mode of the inter-annual Eurasian spring snowmelt represents an east–west dipole anomaly pattern, with an intense center over Siberia and another moderate center around eastern Europe. The European spring snowmelt shows an insignificant relation to the local SAT, whereas the Siberian spring snowmelt has a significant impact on the SAT in late spring and early summer. More Siberian spring snowmelt contributes to higher SAT in late spring and lower SAT in early summer via different mechanisms. In late spring, increased Siberian spring snowmelt corresponds to less local surface albedo and cloud cover, leading to the surface absorbing more shortwave radiation and thereby higher SAT. The sub-surface and deep soil moisture anomalies generated from Siberian spring snowmelt can persist into early summer. Excessive Siberian spring snowmelt corresponds to positive soil moisture anomalies, contributing to decreased sensible heat and increased cloud cover in early summer. Increased cloud cover leads to the surface receiving less shortwave radiation. Thus, lower SAT appears over Siberia in early summer due to reduced sensible heat and shortwave radiation. However, the simulation of Eurasian spring snowmelt variability and its influences on SAT via the snow hydrological effect is still a challenge for the climate models that participated in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6.
How well do multi-satellite products capture the space-time dynamics of precipitation? Part I: five products assessed via a wavenumber-frequency decomposition
Authors: Guilloteau Clement , Foufoula-Georgiou Efi , Kirstetter Pierre , Tan Jackson , Huffman George J.
Published: August 2021

As more global satellite-derived precipitation products become available, it is imperative to evaluate them more carefully for providing guidance as to how well precipitation space-time features are captured for use in hydrologic modeling, climate studies and other applications. Here we propose a space-time Fourier spectral analysis and define a suite of metrics which evaluate the spatial organization of storm systems, the propagation speed and direction of precipitation features, and the space-time scales at which a satellite product reproduces the variability of a reference “ground-truth” product (“effective resolution”). We demonstrate how the methodology relates to our physical intuition using the case study of a storm system with rich space-time structure. We then evaluate five high-resolution multi-satellite products (CMORPH, GSMaP, IMERG-early, IMERG-final and PERSIANN-CCS) over a period of two years over the southeastern US. All five satellite products show generally consistent space-time power spectral density when compared to a reference ground gauge-radar dataset (GV-MRMS), revealing agreement in terms of average morphology and dynamics of precipitation systems. However, a deficit of spectral power at wavelengths shorter than 200 km and periods shorter than 4 h reveals that all satellite products are excessively “smooth”. The products also show low levels of spectral coherence with the gauge-radar reference at these fine scales, revealing discrepancies in capturing the location and timing of precipitation features. From the space-time spectral coherence, the IMERG-final product shows superior ability in resolving the space-time dynamics of precipitation down to 200 km and 4 h scales compared to the other products.
School Desegregation and Resegregation in the Upper South: An Introduction and Overview
Authors: Parcel Toby L. , Mickelson Roslyn A.
Published: August 2021

Despite strong progress toward school desegregation in the late 20th century, many locations in the Upper South have recently experienced school resegregation. The articles in this issue investigate similarities and differences across this region in attitudes underlying these developments. Individual papers treat factors including resident location within and across school districts, as well as the role of school choice. Papers also advocate for combining the results of case studies and opinion polls in elucidating these dynamics. The issue concludes with a look forward regarding the social and political forces that will contribute to whether or not the Supreme Court’s mandate, based on Brown v. Board of Education, will be realized by its 100th anniversary in 2054.
Astrology and the Archduke: Two unpublished letters by Tycho Brahe on the horoscope of Albert VII of Austria
Authors: Meskens Ad
Published: August 2021

By 1600 Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II was still unmarried and therefore without an heir apparent. Rudolf was pressured to name a successor, who could take over as long as there was no direct heir. The obvious choice would have been one of this brothers, Archduke Albert VII of Austria among them. Through the meddling of Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau, Archbishop of Salzburg, Tycho Brahe became a pawn in a power play between the brothers of Rudolf II. Two letters of Tycho Brahe to Albert reveal how deeply he was involved.
Characterization of graphene-filled fluoropolymer coatings for condensing heat exchangers
Authors: Cierpisz Mitchell , McPhedran Joselyne , He Youliang , Edrisy Afsaneh
Published: August 2021

Condensing heat exchangers are thermal devices subjected to extremely corrosive environments due to the formation of acidic condensates on the heat-exchange elements during service. To protect the heat exchangers from chemical attack, perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) coating has been applied as a barrier layer onto the surfaces of the heat-exchange elements to prevent corrosion. However, PFA has intrinsically poor thermal conductivity, and low wear resistance; thus, it is not naturally a good material for heat exchanger application. In this study, graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are incorporated into PFA powder as coating materials to improve the thermal properties of the fluoropolymer, for condensing heat exchangers application. Two grades of GNPs (8 nm and 60 nm layer thickness) are tested to evaluate the effect of graphene addition on the thermal, adhesion, electrical, and wear properties of the composites, which are compared to those mixed with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The results showed that both grades of GNPs significantly increased the thermal conductivity, i.e., ∼8× that of the virgin PFA. The composites incorporated with both grades of GNPs also demonstrated good coating adhesion strength and wear resistance, as well as excellent corrosion resistance. The composite filled with MWCNTs exhibited poor surface finish and minimal improvement in thermal performance.
Dismantling the Black–White Achievement Gap Paradigm: Why and How We Need to Focus Instead on Systemic Change
Authors: Gardner-Neblett Nicole , Iruka Iheoma U. , Humphries Marisha
Published: August 2021

More than half a century of educational efforts have focused on eliminating the Black–White achievement gap. Yet, racial disparities persist. In this article, we describe the issues with educational discourse focused on the achievement gap and the ways structural racism drives the educational experiences and outcomes of Black students. We include a discussion of Black children’s developmental competencies and the ways educators may use culturally relevant pedagogy to capitalize upon these competencies and support higher achievement among Black students. We conclude with suggestions for specific actions to foster systemic change for Black students.
A Scrutiny of Preservice English Teachers’ Lived A/Synchronous Distance Education Experiences: Can Distance Education Not Replace Face-to-Face Education in Preservice English Language Teacher Education?
Authors: Koşar Gülten
Published: August 2021

This cross-sectional survey research explores 249 preservice English teachers’ (PSETs) conceptions of their lived synchronous and asynchronous distance education (DE) experiences and if their preferences for the mode of education in the program change significantly according to their year of study. The findings revealed the participants did not conceive the initial English language teacher education could be provided effectively through asynchronous DE; instead, they favored either face-to-face education or a combination of synchronous DE and face-to-face education. In addition, participants’ preferences for the type of education in the program did not change significantly in accordance with their year of study.
Patterns of Interactions in Science Classrooms at the Colleges of Education in Ghana
Authors: Appah Bonney Ebenezer
Published: August 2021

The study involved 543 teacher trainees and 33 tutors. The reliability of the questionnaire was determined using Cronbach’s alpha (α). For the teacher trainee questionnaire, α = .738. For the tutor questionnaire, α = .886. The results from the study showed that a little more than half (51.7%) of the respondents said that their tutors call the introvert trainee to answer questions while 48 (8.8%) of the minority of the respondents said that tutors do nothing to teacher trainees who are introvert. It is recommended that tutors should engage trainees in activities that will encourage more discourse.
Genome-wide identification of simple sequence repeats and development of polymorphic SSR markers in swamp eel (Monopterus albus)
Authors: Tian Hai-feng , Hu Qiao-mu , Li Zhong
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

Swamp eel is one model species for sexual reversion and an aquaculture fish in China. One local strain with deep yellow and big spots of Monopterus albus has been selected for consecutive selective breeding. The objectives of this study were characterizing the Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) of M. albus in the assembled genome obtained recently, and developing polymorphic SSRs for future breeding programs.

Methods:

The genome wide SSRs were mined by using MISA software, and their types and genomic distribution patterns were investigated. Based on the available flanking sequences, primer pairs were batched developed, and Polymorphic SSRs were identified by using Polymorphic SSR Retrieval tool. The obtained polymorphic SSRs were validated by using e-PCR and capillary electrophoresis, then they were used to investigate genetic diversity of one breeding population.

Results:

A total of 364,802 SSRs were identified in assembled M. albus genome. The total length, density and frequency of SSRs were 8,204,641 bp, 10,259 bp/Mb, and 456.16 loci/Mb, respectively. Mononucleotide repeats were predominant among SSRs (33.33%), and AC and AAT repeats were the most abundant di- and tri-nucleotide repeats motifs. A total of 287,189 primer pairs were designed, and a high-density physical map was constructed (359.11 markers per Mb). A total of 871 polymorphic SSRs were identified, and 38 SSRs of 101 randomly selected ones were validated by using e-PCR and capillary electrophoresis. Using these 38 polymorphic SSRs, 201 alleles were detected and genetic diversity level (Na, PIC, HO, and He) was evaluated.

Conclusions:

The genome-wide SSRs and newly developed SSR markers will provide a useful tool for genetic mapping, diversity analysis studies in swamp eel in the future. The high level of genetic diversity (Na = 5.29, PIC = 0.5068, HO = 0.4665, He = 0.5525) but excess of homozygotes ( FIS = 0.155) in one breeding population provide baseline information for future breeding program.
Using Technology to Increase the Use of Evidence-Based Behavioral Interventions With Students With High-Incidence Disabilities
Authors: Riden Benjamin S. , Kumm Skip , Jolivette Kristine
Published: August 2021

Educators of students with disabilities who frequently display challenging behaviors are expected to deliver high-leverage practices and evidence-based behavioral interventions to improve student academic engagement and appropriate behaviors. For these practices and interventions to be successful, educators need innovative, accessible, and sustainable tools to efficiently and effectively implement these practices and interventions as part of their classroom and behavior management routines. Using technology as a delivery platform can fit this need. The Journal of Special Education Technology special issue presents three experimental studies where teachers used technology to deliver behavioral interventions and one qualitative study examining teachers’ perspectives of using technology for behavior management.
Interpersonal Correlates of Dementia Caregivers’ Emotional Support Networks: Considering Family History
Authors: Cleary Jennifer L. , Manalel Jasmine A. , Ashida Sato , Marcum Christopher Steven , Rewley Jeffrey , Koehly Laura
Published: August 2021

Caregiving networks of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) are comprised of family and friends directly involved in caregiving activities and those supporting these activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether caregiving-related behaviors and interactions (i.e., uplift, malfeasance, and nonfeasance), kinship tie (i.e., friend, family), and family history of ADRD were associated with caregivers’ emotional support networks. Seventy-one caregivers across 30 families provided information about 776 network members. Perceived emotional support and interactions representing uplift, malfeasance, and nonfeasance were assessed. Results indicated that uplift and friendship were associated with increased, whereas nonfeasance was associated with decreased, likelihood of perceived emotional support. Caregivers with a family history of ADRD were particularly more likely to report emotional support from friends and uplifting network members. Findings suggest the need for differential strategies based on families’ prior caregiving experience to facilitate positive and minimize negative interactions within caregiving networks.
A Systematic Review of Clinical Vestibular Symptom Triage, Tools, and Algorithms
Authors: Lampasona Giovanni , Piker Erin , Ryan Cynthia , Gerend Patricia , Rauch Steven D. , Goebel Joel A. , Crowson Matthew G.
Published: August 2021

Objective

The evaluation of peripheral vestibular disorders in clinical practice is an especially difficult endeavor, particularly for the inexperienced clinician. The goal of this systematic review is thus to evaluate the design, approaches, and outcomes for clinical vestibular symptom triage and decision support tools reported in contemporary published literature.

Data Sources

A comprehensive search of existing literature in August 2020 was conducted using MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE using terms of desired diagnostic tools such asalgorithm, protocol,andquestionnaireas well as an exhaustive set of terms to encompass vestibular disorders.

Review Methods

Study characteristics, tool metrics, and performance were extracted using a standardized form. Quality assessment was conducted using a modified version of the Quality of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS‐2) assessment tool.

Results

A total of 18 articles each reporting a novel tool for the evaluation of vestibular disorders were identified. Tools were organized into 3 discrete categories, including self‐administered questionnaires, health care professional administered tools, and decision support systems. Most tools could differentiate between specific vestibular pathologies, with outcome measures including sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Conclusion

A multitude of tools have been published to aid with the evaluation of vertiginous patients. Our systematic review identified several low‐evidence reports of triage and decision support tools for the evaluation of vestibular disorders.
Flow and music performance: Professional musicians and music students’ views
Authors: Antonini Philippe Roberta , Kosirnik Céline , Ortuño Esther , Biasutti Michele
Published: August 2021

Performing music at the highest levels involves great competitiveness. When each performance represents a major personal challenge, success is no longer solely dependent on a high level of technical mastery: the psychological aspects of the performance also have a decisive impact. The concept of flow is presented as a phenomenon associated with significant improvements in the musician’s performance and well-being. This work explores musicians’ positive experiences in performance situations and studies the factors that promote the emergence of flow during competitions. Eleven musicians, both professionals and students, were interviewed to consider ways of promoting the emergence of flow that help them to produce high-quality performances. Our analysis revealed several different factors promoting the emergence of flow: social standing, performance preparation, connection to one’s body, awareness of skills and self-confidence, intrinsic motivation, attentional focus, and transcendence. These findings enhance our understanding of the conditions influencing the emergence of flow. We consider work pathways which might facilitate the emergence of flow experiences and thus help musicians to produce high-quality performances while protecting them from the harmful effects of stress and anxiety.
The Letter to Nebetitef on Her First Intermediate Period Stela in the Michael C. Carlos Museum
Authors: Nyord Rune
Published: August 2021

This paper offers a publication of the stela of Nebetitef with a letter to the deceased owner of the stela on the back. The letter was first published by Edward Wente more than four decades ago after he had seen it briefly in the Cairo Museum, and this publication has formed the basis for all subsequent discussions of the letter, in which the writer notably refers to wishing to see the deceased in a dream. A study of the front of the stela along with a re-examination of the hieratic letter, under more favourable circumstances than those available to Wente, yields new insights into the letter, its writers and its recipient. In particular, the re-examination calls into question Wente’s original identification, followed almost unanimously in the subsequent literature, of the main writer of the letter as the husband of the deceased, altering the social backdrop for the interpretation of the letter.
Using High-Resolution Signal Controller Data in the Calibration of Signalized Arterial Simulation Models
Authors: Tariq Mosammat Tahnin , Hadi Mohammed , Saha Rajib
Published: August 2021

Calibration of traffic simulation models is a critical component of simulation modeling. The increased complexity of the transportation network and the adoption of emerging vehicle- and infrastructure-based technologies and strategies have motivated the development of new methods and data collection to calibrate the simulation models. This study proposes the use of high-resolution signal controller data, combined with a two-level clustering technique for scenario identifications and a multi-objective optimization technique for simulation model parameter calibration. The evaluation of the calibration parameters resulting from the multi-objective optimization based on travel time and high-resolution signal controller data measures indicate that the simulation model that uses these optimized parameters produces significantly lower errors in the split utilization ratio, green utilization ratio, arrival on green, and travel time compared with a simulation model that uses the software’s default parameters. When compared with a simulation model that uses calibration parameters obtained based on the optimization of the single objective of minimizing the travel time, the multi-objective optimization solution produces comparably low travel time errors but with significantly lower errors for the high-resolution signal controller data measures.
Characterization of Secondary Bacterial Infections and Antibiotic Use in Mechanically Ventilated Patients With COVID-19 Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Risa Erik , Roach David , Budak Jehan Z. , Hebert Christopher , Chan Jeannie D. , Mani Nandita S. , Bryson-Cahn Chloe , Town James , Johnson Nicholas J.
Published: August 2021

Background:

COVID-19 has a widely variable clinical syndrome that is difficult to distinguish from bacterial sepsis, leading to high rates of antibiotic use. Early studies indicate low rates of secondary bacterial infections (SBIs) but have included heterogeneous patient populations. Here, we catalogue all SBIs and antibiotic prescription practices in a population of mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients with COVID-19 ARDS requiring mechanical ventilation from 3 Seattle, Washington hospitals in 2020. Data were obtained via electronic and manual review of the electronic medical record. We report the incidence and site of SBIs, mortality, and antibiotics per day using descriptive statistics.

Results:

We identified 126 patients with COVID-19 induced ARDS during the study period. Of these patients, 61% developed clinical infection confirmed by bacterial culture. Ventilator associated pneumonia was confirmed in 55% of patients, bacteremia in 20%, and urinary tract infection (UTI) in 17%. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated bacterial species. A total of 97% of patients received antibiotics during their hospitalization, and patients received nearly one antibiotic per day during their hospital stay.

Conclusions:

Mechanically ventilated patients with COVID-19 induced ARDS are at high risk for secondary bacterial infections and have extensive antibiotic exposure.
Interpersonal Victimization, Substance Use, and Mental Health Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth: The Role of Self-concept Factors
Authors: Scheer Jillian R. , Edwards Katie M. , Sheinfil Alan Z. , Dalton Michelle R. , Firkey Madison K. , Watson Ryan J.
Published: August 2021

Reducing substance use and negative mental health outcomes of interpersonal victimization among sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) represents a critical public health priority. Victimized individuals often develop cognitive schemas, or organized knowledge structures consisting of traits, values, and memories about the self, such as self-concept factors, in response to interpersonal victimization. Prior studies demonstrate the role of self-concept factors (e.g., mastery, control, and self-esteem) in explaining the relationship between victimization and substance use and mental health. However, mastery, control, and self-esteem have not been explored as mediators of interpersonal victimization and health among SGMY. This study is among the first to apply cognitive schema models of trauma-related health symptoms using a large sample of SGMY to examine (a) whether interpersonal victimization is associated with substance use (i.e., alcohol use, cannabis use, and cigarette use) and mental health problems (i.e., depressive symptoms, self-perceived stress, self-rated health issues) and (b) whether diminished sense of mastery and control and lower self-esteem can partially explain elevated rates of substance use and mental health problems in this population. We used the U.S.-based 2017 LGBTQ National Teen Survey ( n = 17,112; Mage = 15.57, SD = 1.27); 6,401 (37.4%) identified as gay or lesbian, 7,396 (43.2%) as cisgender women, and 10,245 (59.9%) as White. Substance use and mental health variables were positively associated with interpersonal victimization variables and negatively associated with self-concept factors. Self-concept factors partially mediated the relationship between interpersonal victimization and mental health. This model explained 74.2% of the variance in mental health and 28.4% of the variance in substance use. Cognitive coping may represent an important modifiable factor that can be targeted by trauma-focused interventions in efforts to improve victimized SGMY’s mental health. Findings call for the development of identity-affirmative, evidence-based, and trauma-focused interventions for SGMY to improve this populations’ overall health.