bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparisons of Children with and without Type I Diabetes on Hand and Visual Motor Integration Skills and on Participation in Daily Activities
Authors: Kılıçöz Mehtap , Kutlutürk Yıkılmaz Seval , Yüksel Ayşegül , Kaya Kara Özgün
Published: May 2022

Our aim in this study was to compare hand skills, visual-motor integration skills, and participation in daily living activities of children with and without Type 1 diabetes (T1DM). In this prospective cross-sectional study, we included 44 children with T1DM (17 males, 27 females; aged 8-12 years) and a control group of 45 healthy age-matched children without T1DM (22 males, 23 females). We compared group scores on the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Visual Motor Integration Test (Beery VMI), and the Participation and Environment Measure - Children and Youth (PEM-CY). JTHFT and Beery VMI scores of children with T1DM were significantly lower than those of the control group ( p ≤ 0.005). On the PEM-CY, children with T1DM were found to have more participation barriers in the community than controls. Relative deficits in hand skills and visual motor integration of children with T1DM should be managed with greater attention and assistance.
Eltrombopag improves refractory thrombocytopenia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Xu Liping , Zhang Yan , Lin Na , Song Xinwei , Dai Qiaoding
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Eltrombopag, a kind of thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor agonist, plays the role on the megakaryocyte to activate the platelet production and rapidly increase the number of circulating platelets in patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Eltrombopag provides an opportunity for rapid tapering and/or cessation of corticosteroid therapy. However, it is not clear about the platelet response to Eltrombopag in ITP associated with Sjögren's Syndrome(SS).

Methods:

A retrospective research was conducted on the clinical course of three patients, each with ITP secondary to SS, and initially received therapy of corticosteroids or other immunomodulatory. They took this drug for bleeding diseases. Referring to the description, Eltrombopag was prescribed and adjusted with an initial dose of 25 mg daily, then weekly, then monthly according to the monitoring of platelet counts.

Results:

All patients maintained a satisfactory level of platelet counts (>100,000/mm3 for >2 years) following corticosteroid withdrawal. Meanwhile, Eltrombopag was well-tolerated, and there were no adverse effects, such as thrombotic events.

Conclusions:

Eltrombopag is effective and safe for patients with ITP associated with SS during corticosteroid withdrawal. Thus it may be a crucial therapeutic strategy for reducing corticosteroid-related side effects in SS patients with ITP.
Relationship between BMI, CT-derived body composition and colorectal neoplasia in a bowel screening population
Authors: Di Rollo Domenic G. , McGovern Josh , Morton Christopher , Miller Gillian , Dolan Ross , Horgan Paul G. , McMillan Donald C. , Mansouri David
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Unlike the indirect measures such as BMI, CT-Body composition (CT-BC) allows for the assessment of both volume and distribution of adipose tissue. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the relationship between host characteristics, BMI, CT-BC measurements and the incidence of colorectal neoplasia.

Methods

Patients undergoing CT Colonography (CTC) as part of the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme, between July 2009 and February 2016, were eligible for inclusion. Data were collected including demographic data, clinicopathological variables and CT-BC measurements including skeletal muscle index (SMI), subcutaneous fat index (SFI) and visceral fat area (VFA). CTC, colonoscopy, and pathology reports were used to identify CRC incidence. Associations between demographic data, clinicopathological variables, CT-BC measurements, colorectal neoplasia and advanced colorectal neoplasia were analysed using univariate and multivariate binary logistics regression.

Results

286 patients met the inclusion criteria. Neoplasia was detected in 105 (37%) of the patients with advanced neoplasia being detected in 72 (69%) of patients. On multivariate analysis sex (p < 0.05) and high VFA (p < 0.001) remained independently associated with colorectal neoplasia. On multivariate analysis a high SFI (p < 0.01) remained independently associated with advanced colorectal neoplasia. BMI was not associated with either colorectal neoplasia or advanced colorectal neoplasia.

Conclusion

When directly compared to BMI, CT derived fat measurements were more closely associated with the degree of neoplasia in patients undergoing colorectal cancer screening. In patients investigated with CT colonography, CT adipose measures may stratify the risk and grade of neoplasia.
Health Concerns of Textile Workers and Associated Community
Authors: Islam Tanweer
Published: May 2022

Background: Workers in the textile industry risk developing various respiratory and pulmonary diseases due to exposure to cotton dust. The particles from the cotton lint are inhaled by the workers and results in the breathing problems including asthma, shortness of breath, cough and tightness in the chest. The poor health of labor contributes to the low productivity of the labor and in serious cases loss of jobs leading to the poverty. Objective: To assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among the textile workers and associated community. To contrast the health profiles of the textile workers, associated community and the control group to factor out any confounding factors. Methods: This study explores the health profiles of the textile workers and associated community and contrast them against the health profile of the control group to factor out any confounding factors. The study is conducted on cotton industry in Kasur, Pakistan. We interviewed 207 workers, 226 people from associated community (living in vicinities of weaving units) and 188 people for control group (from areas far away from weaving units and people are not associated with weaving industry) based on stratified random sampling technique. We employed descriptive methods and logistic regression to explore the association between respiratory diseases and weaving workers. Results: Overall, prevalence of postnasal drip, byssinosis, asthma, and chronic bronchitis were 47%, 35%, 20%, and 10%, respectively, among the workers. These percentages are significantly higher than the control group. An additional year of work increase the risk of postnasal drip, byssinosis, asthma, and chronic bronchitis by 5–6%. Among workers, 43% and 21% feel difficulty in hearing against noisy background and at low volume, respectively. Due to bad light arrangements at workstations, 21% and 31% workers are suffering from myopia and hyperopia, respectively. Proportions of the workers suffering from continuous headache, skin infection, depression, and low back pain are 28%, 29%, 27%, and 44%, respectively. Chi-square test results confirms that no confounding factor like air pollution is involved in this cause-and-effect study implying the association between the cotton dust and associated diseases is not spurious. Conclusion: Respiratory symptoms were statistically significantly more common in the weaving workers compared to control group. Better environment at workstations, use of protective gears and education are the factors which reduce the risk of associated diseases among workers.
Workplace Musculoskeletal Disorder Prevention Practices and Experiences
Authors: Van Eerd Dwayne , Irvin Emma , Le Pouésard Morgane , Butt Amanda , Nasir Kay
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) remain a substantial burden to society and to workplaces worldwide. Evidence-based practice approaches may be helpful; however, current research evidence is not consistently strong. Workplaces must address MSD regardless of the state of the research evidence. The study objective was to describe workplace MSD prevention practices experiences and perspectives of workers, managers, and occupational health and safety practitioners. Methods. This descriptive study used a convenience sample from Newfoundland and Labrador workplaces. Data were collected via survey and interviews. The survey data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and the interview data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results. Results were examined from 645 survey respondents and 17 interviewees. Survey findings revealed that about half of respondents reported MSD policies existed in their workplace. Many MSD practices (such as ergonomics and force reduction) were considered available by most respondents. Over fifty percent of respondents received some training on MSD. The person most often endorsed as responsible to support workers with MSD was a manager. Interview findings showed that MSD prevention practices related to awareness, training, and hazard reduction are considered important and effective. Facilitators of MSD prevention include practices that are proactive and customized and increase knowledge about MSD prevention. Barriers concerning lack of resources and poor implementation were consistently mentioned. Conclusions. Evidence from current practices may help workplaces reduce MSD burden. However, with only about fifty percent of respondents reporting that MSD policies exist in the workplace, further work to address MSD is required. Future research should examine workplace practices as an important source of evidence. OHS professionals can use the study findings and adapt it to their context(s) to guide their design and implementation of MSD prevention practices. Improved MSD prevention practices and interventions can lead to decreases in MSD in workplaces across all industrial sectors.
Exploring weathered and oxidized zones of coal seams using the transient electromagnetic method
Authors: Yang Yang , Xiong Bin , Peng Sanxi , Liu Siqin , Chen Hanbo , Zhang Tianyu
Published: May 2022

Once a coal seam has been weathered and oxidized, the quality of the coal is lost and the coal resources are wasted. At the same time, new risks are introduced to the safe operation of the coal mine. Therefore, it is critical to determine the extent of the weathered and oxidized zone in the coal seam. This paper depicts the electromagnetic characteristics of the weathered and oxidized zone of coal seams, briefly introduces the method of detection by transient electromagnetic method (TEM) and the data processing steps, and performs the numerical simulation for the simplified resistivity model of weathered and oxidized zone in a coal seam. It is observed that after the coal seam has been weathered and oxidized, the electromagnetic characteristics (secondary field potential and resistivity) will be dramatically affected, namely high secondary field potential and low resistivity. For experimental verification purposes, this study selects the test project of the Shixin Minefield in Shanxi, China as an example, and the accuracy for the detection of the weathered and oxidized zone of the coal seam using TEM is successfully verified.
Socializing Scientists into Interdisciplinarity by Placemaking in a Multi-sited Research Center
Authors: Hesjedal Maria Bårdsen
Published: May 2022

The importance of physical place for interdisciplinary research collaborations is often taken for granted by scientists and policy makers. One result of this is a trend of funding interdisciplinary research centers where scientists are colocated in the same building. Previous research findings on the matter are, however, ambiguous and show that though geographical proximity clearly matters, proximity is insufficient to foster interdisciplinary collaboration. This paper is based on an ethnographic study of a multi-sited Norwegian biotechnology research center—the Centre for Digital Life Norway (DLN), funded in 2015 to stimulate a transition in biotechnology research toward inter- and transdisciplinarity and digitalization. The multi-sited character makes DLN different from the much-studied trend of colocation of research groups in research centers. The paper asks: how are scientists socialized into an interdisciplinary mentality in a multi-sited research center? The analysis focus on three aspects: place, socialization, and the role of affective features and experiences. The paper’s main contribution is to demonstrate the role of placemaking in motivating for inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration, in particular by allowing for development of affective relations among the participating scientists.
Children’s Experiences of Lockdown and Social Distancing in the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: González-Calvo Gustavo , Varea Valeria , García-Monge Alfonso
Published: May 2022

Covid-19 was declared a pandemic in March 2020, and the world has witnessed significant changes since then. Spain has been forced to go into extreme lockdown, cancelling all school classes and outdoor activities for children, which may have significant consequences on young people. This paper explores how young children have experienced lockdown as a consequence of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and what they think about their future lives after Covid-19. Data were collected from 73 students aged from 7 to 9 years old, using participant-produced drawings and short questions with children’s and parents’ descriptive comments. We used a children’s rights perspective and the Freirean approach of a pedagogy of love and hope to analyse the data. Results suggest that participants have been through significant changes in their routines, and that what they miss most from their lives before Covid-19 is playing outdoors with their friends and visiting their grandparents. To our knowledge, this paper is the first of its kind in investigating how the Covid-19 pandemic has influenced the ways that children lived during pandemic and its possible implications for their futures.
Calibration of a Mechanistic-Empirical Cracking Model Using Network-Level Field Data
Authors: Wu Rongzong , Harvey John , Lea Jeremy , Jones David , Louw Stephanus , Mateos Angel , Hernandez-Fernandez Noe , Shrestha Raghubar , Holland Joe
Published: May 2022

At the core of a mechanistic-empirical (M-E) pavement design method is a collection of performance models that each predicts the development of a specific pavement distress, such as fatigue cracking and surface rutting. Each model has both mechanistic and empirical parts. The empirical parts need to be calibrated to remove bias and increase prediction accuracy. This process has traditionally been conducted with small numbers of field sections for which materials may or may not have been sampled and tested. This paper presents a new calibration approach that uses network-level field data and statewide distributions of material properties, without having to sample and test every individual calibration section. The calibration of the fatigue and reflection cracking models for CalME, the M-E design software developed for the California Department of Transportation, is used as an example to illustrate the new approach. The new approach works by correlating the statistical distributions of M-E design inputs with the statistical distribution of pavement performance, both at the network level. The uncertainties affecting pavement performance are divided into those specific to a given project (within-project variability) and those that vary between projects (between-project variability). This distinction allows a clear definition of design reliability. The results showed that the new approach can overcome some of the network-level data limitations and provides a reasonable calibration ready for routine pavement design.
Developing an Optimal Peer-to-Peer Ride-Matching Problem Algorithm with Ride Transfers
Authors: Nickkar Amirreza , Lee Young-Jae , Meskar Mana
Published: May 2022

Thanks to recent developments in ride-hailing transit services throughout the world, the peer-to-peer (P2P) ride-matching problem has been actively considered in academia in recent years. P2P ride-matching not only reduces travel costs for riders but also benefits drivers by saving them money in exchange for their additional travel time. However, assigning riders to drivers in an efficient way is a complex problem that requires focusing on maximizing the benefits for both riders and drivers. This study aims to formulate a multi-driver multi-rider (MDMR) P2P ride-matching problem, based on rational preferences and cost allocation for both driver and rider, which also allows riders to transfer between multiple drivers for their travels if needed. Tabu Search (TS) for system-optimal ride-matching and a Greedy Matching (GM) algorithm for stable ride-matching were developed to solve ride-matching cases. The results show that the developed algorithm can successfully solve the proposed P2P MDMR ride-matching problem. MDMR P2P ride-matching can be used in areas where not much demand for ride-sharing exists, or for long-distance travel. Also it can be applied to designs for a more efficient on-demand transit network which can allow for transfers between routes. Moreover, the comparison of results between two implemented approaches shows that system-optimal centralized ride-matching can bring more cost savings for all participants in the system, although it may not always be stable when riders and drivers can choose their ride-matching for their own maximum benefit.
Convolutional Neural Network with Attention Module for Identification of Tunnel Seepage
Authors: Chen Qian , Xiong Chuanguo , Lv Weishan , Shen Ben , Zeng Baoshan , Li Jinming , Feng Chenzefang , Hu Zhou , Zhu Fulong
Published: May 2022

As tunnel construction proceeds ever more rapidly, the efficiency of seepage detection by engineers with expert knowledge is facing unprecedented challenges. Moreover, it suffers from strong subjectivity. In recent years, deep learning, as an algorithm of machine learning, has achieved state-of-the-art performance in pattern recognition. In this paper, we address such a problem by building convolutional neural networks that operate on conventional graphics processing units. Within the project, the data is obtained by an infrared thermal imager since there exist different characteristics of temperature between the area of seepage and non-seepage. Considering the difficulty of collecting many images, generative adversarial nets and other data augmentation skills are applicable to enlarge data sets. We design several novel architectures where the attention mechanism is plugged into various traditional models, considered as VGG16 network with Attention Module and RestNet34 with Attention Module, and the overall identification accuracy achieved is more than 97%. The codes of this project can be found at https://github.com/Scotter-Qian/cnn .
Dynamic Routing Algorithm for Hazmat Transportation Problems
Authors: Hu Ta-Yin , Hsu Yu-Cheng , Liao Tsai-Yun
Published: May 2022

After a series of gas pipeline explosions in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, in 2014, the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) issued regulations in 2017 requiring all chemical tank trucks to be equipped with GPS for real-time monitoring and control. Hazmat transportation problems, along with solution algorithms and applications, have been studied extensively. However, most of the research has focused on the route planning level. Dynamic characteristics should be incorporated to reflect possible dynamic traffic situations with more advanced information and communication capabilities for chemical tank trucks. This research formulates a bi-objective dynamic model and proposes a solution algorithm based on a genetic algorithm (GA) for dynamic hazmat route optimization. A dynamic bi-objective model, including transportation cost and risk, is developed to reflect time-varying traffic conditions. Dynamic traffic characteristics are reflected through traffic volume and travel time, simulated from simulation models. Numerical experiments are conducted in the Kaohsiung City network. The results show that dynamic routes for hazmat transportation vary with respect to traffic flow conditions. The discussions of this research are expected to provide some insights into policy implications.
Choice of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Midterm Assessment After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery
Authors: Webster Kate E. , Klemm Haydn J. , Feller Julian A.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have become increasingly popular for assessing subjective elements of a patient's condition. Two frequently used knee-related PROMs after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery are the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC-SKF) and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). However, completing the full versions of both measures represents a considerable responder burden.

Purpose:

To compare a variety of KOOS short forms with each other as well as the IKDC-SKF in a large sample of ACLR patients between 2 and 6 years after surgery.

Study Design:

Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The KOOS and IKDC-SKF were administered between 2 and 6 years (mean, 3 years) after ACLR surgery to a cohort of 832 patients (men, n = 489; women, n = 343). Two single-item assessment numerical evaluations were also completed for knee function and satisfaction. The following short form versions were calculated from the full KOOS: the KOOS-12 short form, KOOS–Physical Function Short form (KOOS-PS), KOOS–Joint Replacement Short form (KOOS-JR), and KOOS–Global. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all PROMs and associations between measures were explored using nonparametric (Spearman rho) correlations. Floor or ceiling effects were considered present if >15% of patients reported the worst (floor effect) or best (ceiling effect) possible score. Age and sex comparisons were also made for each PROM.

Results:

Ceiling effects were present for all KOOS short form versions. They were highly evident for the KOOS-JR and KOOS-PS (37%-44%), but they were only marginally above the threshold for the KOOS-12 and KOOS–Global (16%). The KOOS-12 and KOOS–Global had the highest correlation with the IKDC-SKF but only explained 58% to 59% of the variance in scores. The KOOS-12 and KOOS–Global were very highly correlated (ρ = 0.98). Only moderate correlations were seen between the single-item assessments and the IKDC-SKF or various KOOS short forms. There was a negligible association between patient age and PROM scores, but there was no significant sex difference for any of the PROMs.

Conclusion:

The IKDC-SKF together with either the KOOS–Global or KOOS-12 may provide a comprehensive range of knee-related PROMs with minimized responder burden at 2 to 6 years after ACLR.
From Fragile Heritage to the Fragility of Heritage Models: Diverse Answers to Pressing Ethical and Aesthetic Questions
Authors: Somhegyi Zoltán
Published: May 2022

The appreciation, conservation, and reconstruction of ruins, deteriorating buildings, and archaeological sites of historical, religious or cultural value, as well as their safeguarding, lead to a complex set of issues and considerations. This brief paper suggests that a deeper understanding of the various models of heritage management can enhance acceptance of the different practices of heritage care. The fragility of heritage sites and of heritage models urges us to look for viable answers to global ethical and aesthetic questions regarding the management of heritage sites.
A Meta-Analytic Review on Embodied Pedagogical Agent Design and Testing Formats
Authors: Davis Robert O , Park Taejung , Vincent Joseph
Published: May 2022

Over the past decade, meta-analyses have been conducted to evaluate the impact of embodied pedagogical agents on learning outcomes. Most review studies have evaluated learning outcomes from the perspective of testing labels such as transfer, retention, recognition, free recall, and various other classifications. This is problematic, because studies can be excluded due to the labeling of the assessment, even though the testing format and test taking strategy are the same. This meta-analysis assesses how embodied pedagogical agents impact learning when measured from the testing format and test taking strategy perspective. The new approach, along with new moderating variables to evaluate agent design and content information, supports previous findings that embodied pedagogical agents significantly increase learning; but there are limitations depending on the agent’s design and the type of information being learned. This meta-analysis advances the field by exploring new ways to think about design elements associated with embodied pedagogical agents.
Erosion wear resistance mechanism of erosion ripples
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhao Xuwen , Wang Qi , Wang Tianqi , Tang Yuling
Published: May 2022

Erosion ripples widely exist on natural and industrial surfaces suffering gas–solid flow erosion. During the steady state of erosion ripples formation, the material removal and plastic flow rate of the material basically reach a dynamic equilibrium. In this state, the erosion rate of the surface material is steady and at a low level. In this paper, the relationship between erosion ripples and the erosion characteristics of surface materials was explored by experimental and simulation methods. Under the conditions of air pressures of 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 MPa and erosion angles of 30°, 40° and 50°, several erosion ripples were prepared on the surface of 1060 aluminium alloy samples by sandblasting. According to the obtained morphological parameters and orthogonal test design, rippled samples with rectangular, triangular and semicircular groove sections were designed. The effect of morphology parameters on the erosion resistance of the sample was analysed by a sandblasting test. The results showed that the rippled samples have lower erosion rates than the plate sample. The cross-sectional shape of grooves is the most obviously affected factor. The velocity distribution and surface pressure distribution on the surface of rippled and plate samples were analysed by FLUENT software, and the results showed that the low-speed reflow vortex will be formed in grooves of erosion ripples that can change the near-wall flow field conditions. The differential pressure generated on two sides of the ridge between adjacent grooves, as well as the area decrease of erosion caused by the “shaded effect,” may be the cause of the erosion resistance. The results of this study can provide new insight into the active erosive wear resistance method of mechanical components.
Fault feature extraction method of gear based on spectral amplitude modulation and autocorrelation analysis
Authors: Zhong Xianyou , Mei Quan , Gao Xiang , Huang Tianwei , Zhao Xiao
Published: May 2022

Due to the strong noise interference and amplitude modulation effect, it is difficult to extract the impact characteristics of the fault gear from the spectrum of the fault signal. To tackle these issues, a gear fault feature extraction method based on spectral amplitude modulation (SAM) and autocorrelation analysis is proposed. First, the SAM method is used to decompose the signal into different components according to energy, and the optimal component with the most fault information is determined by combining kurtosis index and magnitude order selection range. Then, the optimal component is denoised using the autocorrelation function. Finally, the fault feature frequency is extracted by calculating the squared envelope spectrum of the denoised signal. The superiority of the method is verified by simulating the signal. Furthermore, the effectiveness and superiority of the method in gear fault diagnosis are verified by comparison with the fast kurtogram, cepstrum pre-whitening, and SAM.
Grey correlation analysis of milling temperature and milling vibration of TC4 titanium alloy
Authors: Li Shuncai , Hu Yuting , Popov Eugene
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a synchronous acquisition system of milling temperature and milling vibration was established to measure the data of milling temperature and milling vibration. Based on grey correlation theory, the influence of milling parameters and milling vibration on milling temperature was analyzed. It is found that the grey correlation degree between milling temperature and milling parameters and vibration is above 0.70, indicating that milling parameters and vibration have great influence on temperature. In addition, the GM (0, N) grey prediction model of milling temperature on milling parameters and milling vibration was established, and the correlation coefficient of the model was above 0.8, indicating that the reliability of the model was high, and the correlation between milling temperature and milling vibration signal was high.
Fourier transform near infrared spectroscopy as a tool to predict spawning status in Alaskan fishes with variable reproductive strategies
Authors: TenBrink Todd , Neidetcher Sandra , Arrington Morgan , Benson Irina , Conrath Christina , Helser Thomas
Published: May 2022

Fourier-transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy of ovarian tissue was used to predict maturity status of fish species with variable reproductive strategies collected at limited time periods of their spawning cycle. Reference data were derived from histologically prepared tissue samples from four species: Pacific cod ( Gadus macrocephalus), walleye pollock ( Gadus chalcogrammus) , Greenland turbot ( Reinhardtius hippoglossoides) , and northern rockfish ( Sebastes polyspinis). Each data set was classified into reproductively immature (non-spawning) and reproductively mature (spawning-capable) categories. Principal component analysis of spectral data showed separation between ovarian tissues of spawning-capable and non-spawning females. Multivariate classification using partial least squares discriminant analysis indicated good discrimination based on spawning status with high predictive accuracy. Greenland turbot and northern rockfish showed clear distinction between ovaries of spawning-capable and non-spawning females and a model validation with 100% and 96.6% classification accuracy, respectively. Pacific cod and walleye pollock had more complicated reproductive patterns at time of collection and classification rates were still 96.6% and 92.1%. This study demonstrated the potential application of FT-NIR spectroscopy to predict spawning status from ovarian tissue even for species with complicated spawning patterns and for collections outside of the preferred spawning period. Future work may include the use of this technology to classify distinct oocyte development stages.
Emergency Distance Education Experiences of EFL Instructors and Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kamisli Merih Ugurel , Akinlar Aylin
Published: May 2022

This qualitative phenomenological study was designed to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instructors and learners with emergency distance education in response to the COVID-19 pandemic using the lens of the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) model. Data was collected through a survey including open-ended questions and a series of in-depth interviews with participants from a large state university. The content analysis method was used for the data analysis. Our research showed that instructors experienced challenges of emergency distance education, emotional stress due to the uncertainties and unplanned nature of the abrupt shift. The findings also identified issues that affect instructors’ and students’ motivation such as unstable internet connection, lack of student–teacher and peer interaction, as well as insufficient resources and access due to the digital divide. Implications for improving the teacher training programs and teachers’ application of the TPACK framework are discussed.
Fabrication and characterization of shape memory auxetic metamaterial
Authors: Yao Yongtao , Xu Yuncheng , Chen Hao , Kang Yuying , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong
Published: May 2022

The process of repeating shape memory cycle of the shape memory foam whose initial structure is nonauxetic is more complex. In this cases, only one-shot deformation, which will greatly limit the application of this smart metamaterial. Thus, in this study, we report a feasible approach of fabricating the original structure of shape memory foams with auxetic property based on second curing method. The commercial soft polyurethane foam material and shape memory epoxy resin was used in fabricating the shape memory auxetic foam. Polyurethane component plays role in the similar function of “auxetic mold,” while shape memory polymer act as fixing auxetic structure of foam. The negative Poisson’s ratio was achieved around −0.22. Tunable foam mechanical property was demonstrated by structural control according to its shape memory property. The functional filler was employed to realize the wireless actuation of auxetic foam. The excellent shape memory properties have been achieved as well. The combination of smart materials and metamaterial structure makes it have excellent structural mechanical properties and intelligent properties of materials, which greatly expands their potential application prospects.
Motivated Reasoning and Attitudes Towards Supreme Court Confirmation Hearings: Evidence from Five Nominations and an Experiment
Authors: Badas Alex
Published: May 2022

Relying on theories of motivated reasoning, I hypothesize that individuals who favor a nominee will prefer a legalistic confirmation hearing, while those who oppose a nominee will prefer a politicized confirmation hearing. Analyzing survey data from five recent nominees and a survey experiment, I find support for this hypothesis. The results have implications for how the public interacts with the nature of the Court’s hybrid institutional structure. Specifically, I argue the results support the notion that the public engages in a political calculation when making judgements about the Court. When it serves their preferences, people will view the Court as a legalistic institution; however, when individuals believe there is an advantage in viewing the Court as a political institution, they are more likely to desire the Court to be evaluated in political ways.
Low Rates of Lung Cancer Screening Referrals in Patients With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Correlational Study
Authors: Lopez Wilfredo , Sayles Harlan , Bares Sara H. , Fadul Nada
Published: May 2022

People living with HIV (PLWH) have an increased risk of lung cancer compared to the general population. In 2013, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released their lung cancer screening (LCS) guidelines. However, the impact of these guidelines has not been well established in PLWH. The objective of this retrospective descriptive study is to evaluate the frequency of lung cancer screening referrals and factors associated with LCS referrals using the 2013 USPSTF screening guidelines in at-risk PLWH. We collected demographic and clinical information on PLWH from electronic medical records from July 2016 to July 2018. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, Wilcoxon rank sum tests, and Fisher’s exact tests were used for analysis. Only 14% of patients who met 2013 USPSTF screening guidelines were referred for screening. Patients who received a referral were more likely to have received tobacco cessation counseling. Patients who received and completed a referral were more likely to have hepatitis C infection. Quality improvement strategies are needed to improve rates of LCS in PLWH.
Ultrasonic field analysis with local interface curvature effect based on the multi-Gaussian beam model
Authors: Lyu Jiarui , Liu Haibo , Gao Sijia , Lian Meng , Li Te , Wang Yongqing
Published: May 2022

In ultrasonic testing, the amplitude of echoes is determined by the sound pressure along the acoustic axis. When the workpiece has a local curved surface, the ultrasonic field redistribution has a close relationship with the curvature of the incident local region, which raises questions of testing validity and accuracy. In order to develop the curvature adaptation window for a given test condition, the influence of local curved interface on the ultrasonic transmission and reflection field is analyzed quantitatively in this paper. Based on the multi-Gaussian beam model, the distribution of transmitted and reflected sound pressure in the local curved region is calculated by using matrix transformation technique. Furthermore, the relationship between interface curvature and sound pressure along the acoustic axis is obtained. To validate the accuracy of proposed calculation model, developed relationship has been compared against a finite element method computed using COMSOL Multiphysics. It is indicated that the proposed calculation model is more efficient and the regular changes of sound pressure are basically consistent with that of finite element method.
What We Think When We Think About (Interpersonal) Violence: Understanding Knowledge Production
Authors: Murshid Nadine Shaanta
Published: May 2022

Amid growing consensus that violence against women is structurally produced, neoliberalism produces an individualist understanding of violence that blames women while simultaneously framing it as personal failings of men, obscuring the link between the structural and the personal. Using examples from federal grant funding opportunities in the United States, activism in Bangladesh, and data from qualitative research, I analyze how such individual readings of violence get produced–reproduced. I call for radical responsibility to produce equitable and just research that serves the communities that we study, not just the interests of grant funders and the neoliberal university.
Neurological Manifestations Associated With SARS-CoV-2 in Children: A Case Series
Authors: Venceslau Marianna Tavares , Lebreiro Giuliana Pucarelli , Leitão Gabrielly de Souza , Alves Brenda Klemm Arci Mattos de Freitas , Gouvea Luane Abdalla , Pastura Giuseppe Mario Carmine , Anachoreta Thiago Dias , da Rocha Regina Cláudia Silva , Maciel Fernanda Queiroz , Cordeiro Catherine Crespo , Castiñeiras Terezinha Marta Pereira Pinto , Abreu Thalita Fernandes , Frota Ana Cristina Cisne , Varella Rafael Brandão , Guimarães Maria Angelica Arpon Marandino , Hofer Cristina Barroso
Published: May 2022

Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 may affect both central and peripheral nervous systems. Unlike in adults, in whom majority of severe cases derive from respiratory complications, neurological involvement is one of the main causes of severe COVID-19 in children. This study aimed to detect viral respiratory pathogens, mainly SARS-CoV-2, in nasopharynx and cerebrospinal fluid samples utilizing qRT-PCR (TaqMan) in a pediatric population in Brazil. We evaluated four children with neurological symptoms and laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection: three presenting with meningoencephalitis and one presenting with Guillain-Barré syndrome. All four patients had mild respiratory symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was identified in two cerebrospinal fluid samples. SARS-CoV-2 involvement should be considered for differential diagnosis in pediatric cases presenting neurological alterations even if symptoms such as headache, anosmia, or dizziness are absent.
A policy like no other? The populist radical right challenge in the field of democracy reform
Authors: Bedock Camille , Best Volker , Otjes Simon , Weisskircher Manès
Published: May 2022

The literature on the populist radical right has underlined the party family’s influence on a variety of issues, such as immigration, welfare, and the EU. However, scholars have hardly studied its influence in the field of democracy reform, even though populist radical right parties strongly criticize how democratic systems currently function. In an exploratory and qualitative study of four cases, we analyze the adaptation (or lack thereof) of mainstream parties to populist radical right parties’ challenge in the field of democracy reform in Austria, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, focusing on direct democracy. In contrast to other policy issues, we find limited adaptation of mainstream parties in the field of democracy reform: Instead of being a driver on democracy reform, the populist radical right is merely a fellow passenger. Where it has an effect, that effect is mostly negative, turning mainstream parties away from direct democracy.
Does the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights have Added Value for Social Security?
Authors: Pennings Frans
Published: May 2022

In this contribution the added value of the Charter in the area of social security is examined. It is concluded that Article 34 of the Charter has not created fundamental rights that can be invoked in order to improve the legal position of claimants of social security or of social assistance. This conclusion is no surprise, given the express provisions limiting the interpretation of the Charter. Instead, it is interesting to note that the Charter has, in particular, added value where the scope for interpretation has not been explicitly limited, that is where provisions are applied that are not implemented by the instrument that is disputed in a particular situation. A second added value is the doctrine of horizontal effect, which means that in some cases provisions of Directives can also be invoked in horizontal situations. This is of relevance, particularly in non-statutory social security cases. Also, the Court of Justice itself seems to have had its difficulties in applying the Charter. It is difficult to understand the consistency of the Dano and CG judgments, where in the Dano the Court claimed not to have jurisdiction to interpret the non-specific provisions in the case, yet in CG, it did so without having even been asked. In this contribution it is undertaken to analyse these judgments with a view to better understanding the added value of the Charter.
Human health risk assessment of heavy metals from meat and offal of reindeer and cow in the Far North of European Russia
Authors: Unguryanu Tatiana N. , Lyzhina Alena V. , Mitrokhin Oleg V. , Polibin Roman V.
Published: May 2022

Aims:

This study aimed to compare the concentrations of heavy metals in reindeer and cow meat and offal originating from the Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Northwestern Russia, and to assess the risk to the health of the indigenous population associated with heavy metal intake due to the consumption of reindeer and cow.

Methods:

Lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic concentrations were measured in 39 muscle, 15 liver, and 14 kidney samples from reindeer and 33, 18, and 12 corresponding samples from cow in 2014–2016 using atomic absorption spectrometry. Estimated daily intake of investigated heavy metals, hazard quotient, hazard index and cancer risk were calculated.

Results:

Mean cadmium and mercury concentrations in reindeer liver and kidney exceeded the maximum permissible levels for bovine animals. However, the estimated daily intakes of heavy metals through consumption of reindeer and cow meat and offal were lower than tolerable daily intakes. Hazard quotient and hazard index values for heavy metals in reindeer and cow samples were <1. Hazard index values were in descending order: reindeer kidney (0.389)>reindeer muscle (0.382)>cow muscle (0.088)>reindeer liver (0.051)>cow kidney (0.012)>cow liver (0.004). The cancer risk related to the consumption of reindeer and cow meat and offal did not exceed acceptable levels.

Conclusions:

There is no human health risk associated with heavy metal intake due to the consumption of reindeer and cow meat and offal originating from the Nenets Autonomous Okrug.
Epistemic decoloniality of westernised higher education: A discourse on curriculum justice and knowledge integration at historically white universities in South Africa
Authors: Asea Wilson B
Published: May 2022

This article seeks to delve deeper into the discourse about the epistemic decoloniality of Westernised higher education in South Africa. Discrete academic studies have indicated that African Knowledge paradigms have not found a home in South Africa’s Westernised academies yet; knowledge patterns remain foreign and colonized. The current curriculum at a section of Historically White Universities in South Africa largely reflects the colonial and apartheid worldviews and is disconnected from African realities, including the lived experiences of most black South Africans, taking into account Arts and Humanities. Based on an examination of the decoloniality project and curriculum dishonesty and reform through literature study, the article calls for critical rethinking and reconfiguration, which should position South Africa, Africa, and last of all, the globe at the centre of knowledge production. Epistemic decoloniality at South Africa’s Historically White Universities should not be pursued with knowledge violence but rather with scholarly debate. This article introduces the framework of decoloniality by tracing the genesis of (South) Africa’s knowledge coloniality and initiates a discussion on the current epistemic decoloniality in South Africa’s Westernised higher education. The focus is on curriculum justice and knowledge integration across Historically White Universities in South Africa. The last portion of the paper applies the proposed measures to evaluate the cogency of decolonial discourses.
Marker-free fatigue crack detection and localization by integrating the optical flow and information entropy
Authors: Xin Cun , Wang Cunjun , Xu Zili , Wang Jun , Yan Song
Published: May 2022

Fatigue cracks caused by repetitive loads are one of the major threats to the structural integrity of civil infrastructure. Human inspection is the most common method for detecting fatigue cracks, but it is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and unreliable. In this paper, we propose a new vision-based fatigue crack detection and localization method that can detect the fatigue crack with marker-free and high precision using a consumer-grade digital camera. A motion tracking technology called optical flow algorithm is applied to the video for tracking the surface motion of the monitored structure under repetitive load. Then, a crack detection and localization algorithm based on optical flow information entropy are developed to search differential features at different video frames caused by the crack opening and closing. The proposed method’s precision is first validated by doing two experiments and then comparing its precision and efficiency to the existing crack detection methods, including image processing and digital image correlation. The results show that, when compared to the existing vision-based methods, the proposed method can accurately and efficiently identify the fatigue crack even when the crack is surrounded by other crack-like edges, covered by complex surface textures, or invisible to human eyes. In addition, based on the proposed methods, a practical application for calculating the stress intensity factor is given to track crack development.
Perceptual–Cognitive Expertise in Law Enforcement: An Object-Identification Task
Authors: Scott Dakota , Vangsness Lisa , Suss Joel
Published: May 2022

The few perceptual–cognitive expertise and deception studies in the domain of law enforcement have yet to examine perceptual–cognitive expertise differences of police trainees and police officers. The current study uses methods from the perceptual–cognitive expertise and deception models. Participants watched temporally occluded videos of actors honestly drawing a weapon and deceptively drawing a non-weapon from a concealed location on their body. Participants determined if the actor was holding a weapon or a non-weapon. Using signal-detection metrics—sensitivity and response bias—we did not find evidence of perceptual–cognitive expertise; performance measures did not differ significantly between police trainees and experienced officers. However, consistent with the hypotheses, we did find that both police trainees and police officers became more sensitive in identifying the object as occlusion points progressed. Additionally, we found that across police trainees and police officers, their response bias became more liberal (i.e., more likely to identify the object as a weapon) as occlusion points progressed. This information has potential impacts for law enforcement practices and additional research.