bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parties to an alliance: Ideology and the domestic politics of international institutionalization
Authors: Rapport Aaron , Rathbun Brian
Published: June 2020

While much research has been done on the domestic determinants of alliance institutionalization, there has been a neglect of the effect of domestic politics, by which we mean contestation between political actors in the same country. We hypothesize that the ideology of the parties governing countries negotiating the terms of security relationships will affect their preferences over the degree and kind of institutionalization seen in alliances. Drawing on previous literature, we argue that rightist parties are more sensitive to sovereignty costs and will therefore insist on maintaining more control over policy than their leftist counterparts. They can assert control either by imposing hierarchical forms of institutionalization when they are a stronger party to an alliance or by avoiding institutionalization altogether if they are the weaker party in an alliance. In contrast, we expect leftist parties to be less sensitive to sovereignty costs and generally favorable to more voice-driven, egalitarian institutions that have institutionalized mechanisms for consensus-building, regardless of their country’s relative power position. Combining the ATOP dataset on alliance design with the Parties Manifesto Project, we find broad support for our hypotheses. Our findings indicate that scholars should pay more attention to the internal ideological contestation within countries, making room for domestic political factors that go beyond regime type.
Mobilizing memories: The social conditions of the long-term impact of victimization
Authors: Villamil Francisco
Published: June 2020

Recent research has focused on the legacies of civil war violence on political preferences, finding that wartime victimization decreases support for the perpetrator or its political identity in the long run. However, we know little about the conditions under which this effect takes place. Historical accounts from civil wars suggest that the long-term effect of violence is not homogenous, nor consistent across areas within a single conflict. Addressing this gap, this article explores the effects of wartime victimization on long-term political preferences at the local level, looking at the conditioning effect of the local social context. In particular, I argue that the effect of wartime violence depends on the existence of local networks that create and maintain memories of the violence and capitalize on them for future mobilization. This argument is tested in the context of the Spanish Civil War. I build a novel dataset using archival data, historical secondary sources, and already existing datasets, covering 2,100 municipalities across Spain. In line with the argument, it is found that Francoist wartime victimization during the civil war is linked to an increase in leftist vote share after democracy was restored four decades later, but mainly in those municipalities where clandestine, left-leaning political networks were active after the conflict.
United Nations endorsement and support for human rights: An experiment on women’s rights in Pakistan
Authors: Anjum Gulnaz , Chilton Adam , Usman Zahid
Published: June 2020

The United Nations is one of the organizations charged with developing and promoting international human rights law. One of the primary ways that the United Nations tries to do that is by regularly reviewing the human rights practices of member states and then recommending new policies for that state to implement. Although this expends considerable resources, a number of obstacles have made it difficult to empirically assess whether the UN’s review process actually causes countries to improve their human rights practices. To study this topic, we conducted an experiment in Pakistan that tested whether respondents were more likely to support policies aimed at improving women’s rights when they learned that the reforms were proposed by the United Nations. Our results indicate that the respondents who were randomly informed of the United Nations endorsement not only expressed higher support for the policy reforms, but also were more likely to express willingness to ‘mobilize’ in ways that would help the reforms be implemented. Our treatment did not have any effect, however, on respondents that did not already have confidence in the United Nations. This suggests that the international human rights regime may only be able to aid domestic reformers when there is already faith in those institutions.
The Role of Mentor Teacher–Mediated Experiences for Preservice Teachers
Authors: Kang Hosun
Published: June 2020

This study aims to better understand the role of mentor teacher–mediated experiences in preservice teachers (PTs)’ progress toward the vision of teaching advocated by their programs. Data were collected from multiple cohorts of preservice science teachers at two university-based teacher preparation programs. Employing a qualitative, multiple case study approach, a total of 35 cases were analyzed focusing on the quality of mentor teacher–mediated experiences (i.e., modeling program-advocated vision of teaching, supporting PTs’ experimentation, and providing feedback), and its relationship to PTs’ progress over time. The analyses show that mentor teachers’ supportiveness for PTs’ experimentation played a critical role in facilitating PTs’ desirable changes. Well-structured experimentation created conditions for PTs to notice, leverage, and expand students’ sense-making repertoires in classrooms. Mentors’ modeling of program-recommended practices was not necessarily related to PTs’ progress. This study raises questions about prevalent perceptions of a good mentor teacher as someone who models program-recommended practices.
Determination of ethanol in micro-volumes of blood by headspace gas chromatography: Statistical comparison between capillary and venous sampling sites
Authors: Taylor Luke , Remeškevičius Vytautas , Saskoy Lili , Brodie Tara , Mahmud Jeshan , Moir Hannah , Brouner James , Howe Christopher , Thatti Baljit , Connell Sein O’ , Trotter Gavin , Rooney Brian
Published: June 2020

Ethanol is the most commonly encountered drug in forensic toxicology, with widespread use throughout society. For this reason, it is important that there are a variety of reliable and robust methods to detect and quantify the content of alcohol in blood samples of suspected drink drivers. A common method of detection is gas chromatography with flame ionisation detector, with a number of sample preparation techniques employed. Typically, venous blood is sampled and used in the analysis. However, there is currently no legal specification in the UK of the blood sample source. This study investigates the use of capillary blood as an alternative to venous blood alongside two different sample volumes: 100 and 10 µL. Venous and capillary blood were collected from volunteers who had consumed alcohol. All blood sampling was carried out one hour after cessation of drinking. The results show a statistically significant difference between venous and capillary samples, with an average difference of 3.38 ± 1.99 mg/100 mL at 100 μL and approximately 4.13 ± 2.42 mg/100 mL at 10 μL, respectively. Predominantly, venous blood was detected at higher concentrations than the corresponding capillary samples. The deviations in alcohol samples between venous and capillary blood are consistent with previous studies. However, our research indicates that capillary blood is a viable matrix to test for alcohol, albeit one that underestimates blood-alcohol content in relation to venous sampling. There was no statistically significant difference between the 100 and 10 µL sample preparation methods on an individual basis, which infers that micro-volumes of alcohol are suitable for forensic blood-alcohol analysis.
Numerical investigation of particle trapping in various groove configurations in straight and bent flow channels
Authors: Florio LA
Published: June 2020

A novel computational technique is applied to investigate particle trapping in straight and bent channel flow paths with various groove configurations in high-speed compressible, particle laden flow. The technique is valid for particle sizes of the same order of magnitude as the groove dimensions and where the particle–flow path, particle–particle, and particle–flow interactions play significant roles in determining the particle motion. The sacrificial grooves within the flow path can remove particles from the flow to reduce particle impact-induced wear. The feasibility of the trapping grooves and the conditions for which they are most beneficial can be gleaned from analysis of the model results. Three groove configurations are studied: a straight groove, a flared groove, and a 45 degree angle groove, for the same groove entrance size, groove depth, and spacing in a straight channel and a channel with a 90 degree bend. A transient maximum of 22% of the particles were trapped for the flared groove for the bent channel and a transient maximum of 15% of the particles for the straight channel configuration. The second groove of the bent channel produces the greatest single groove particle holding of 8.25% of all of the particles for the flared grove configuration. The contributions of the groove positioning, groove shape, gas flow, and particle interaction conditions to the trapping characteristics can be readily obtained from examination of the model results since the modeling technique includes detailed treatment of particle–flow path and flow interactions, allowing for the study of the mechanisms acting to trap the particles within the grooves.
Bionic research on spikes based on the tractive characteristics of ostrich foot toenail
Authors: Zhang Rui , Han Dianlei , Yu Guolong , Wang Haitao , Liu Haibao , Yu Haibin , Li Jianqiao
Published: June 2020

Inspired by the superior fixed and traction characteristics of ostrich foot toenails, we devised, optimized and manufactured the single structure and group arrangement of a new-style bionic spike for sprint shoes to improve athletic performance. The tractive performance of the bionic spike was tested by finite element analysis and experimental verification. The optimized single structure of the bionic spike had a top slope angle of 13° and the radius of the medial groove of 7.3 mm. Compared with the conventional conic spike, the maximal and stable extrusion resistances of the single bionic spike decreased by about 25% and 40% respectively, while the maximal and stable horizontal thrusts increased by about 16% and 10%, respectively. In addition, the arrangement of the bionic spikes was also optimized. Compared with the conventional spike group, the maximal and stable extrusion resistances of the bionic spike group decreased by 11.0% and 6.2%, respectively, while the maximal and stable horizontal thrusts increased by 20.0% and 16.0%, respectively. The current results may provide useful mechanical information that can help develop a better design of athletic shoes with the potential for advanced performance.
Secularisation and intimate relationships in a Catholic community: Is Malta a resistant niche?
Authors: Deguara Angele
Published: June 2020

This study explores secularisation in a traditionally Catholic community through the analysis of intimate relationships which fall outside Catholic morality. It gives an indication of how individuals in contemporary society perceive Church teachings on sexuality in terms of the relationship choices they make. The research draws upon 2 years of fieldwork carried out with Drachma LGBTI, a space where lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and intersex (LGBTI) people of faith may explore and deepen their spirituality. I also conducted 35 in-depth interviews with LGBT and non-LGBT individuals whose lifestyle runs counter to official Church teachings on sexuality, despite their Catholic faith that is, who are in a same-sex relationship or else divorced, cohabiting or in a civil marriage. The study revealed that while informants may disregard Church teachings on matters of sexuality, their reconstructed sexual morality is still embedded within a Catholic framework.
“We Have a Long Way to Go:” A Case Study Examination of Older Women Veterans’ Experiences in VA Primary Care
Authors: Silvestrini Molly , Nicosia Francesca , Spar Malena J. , Gibson Carolyn J. , Brown Rebecca T.
Published: June 2020

Women Veterans are a growing population with complex care needs. While previous research has examined the experiences of women Veterans, little attention has been paid to the specific experiences of older women Veterans. These case studies present the experiences of 2 older women Veterans who have been enrolled in Veterans Affairs (VA) health care for several decades. Results suggest that these older women Veterans have faced gender-specific challenges and barriers throughout their time accessing VA care. The experiences of these participants suggest that they have gender-sensitive needs that are not always addressed by VA primary care and that women’s groups are important mechanisms by which they have gained psychological support in a gender-sensitive environment. These cases suggest that access to gender-sensitive services and women-centered spaces are important for these 2 older women Veterans and should be explored in future research.
Abstract Society in the Time of Plague
Authors: Chmielewski Adam
Published: June 2020

The global lockdown following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to generate all sorts of consequences: psychological, social, economic, and political. To hypothesize about what will emerge from the present situation is at this point both premature and impossible. The impossibility comes primarily from the gravity and vastness of this emergency and from the lack of intellectual resources to deal with the challenge. At the same time, however, the need to get a grasp of the condition in which we have found ourselves is both understandable and irresistible. One way of responding, at least partially, to the demand and its possible consequences may be to refer to the concept of abstract society, an idea formulated 75 years ago by the Austrian-British philosopher Karl Popper.
An unusual cause for rib osteomyelitis in the tropics: Cryptococcal osteomyelitis
Authors: Ramesh Venkat , Rao Polati Vishnu , Nimmala Pavani , Anand Mridu , Narreddy Suneetha , Saidulu Ganta
Published: June 2020

The more common manifestations of cryptococcal infections are restricted to the central nervous system and lungs. We report an unusual case of fungal osteomyelitis due to Cryptococcus. The patient was a young man who had been adequately treated for pulmonary tuberculosis three years prior. Three months before, he sustained a minor road-traffic accident with only minor abrasions. He presented with subacute chest pain of 15 days’ duration and was found to have radiological evidence of a lytic lesion of the fifth rib. Given prior tuberculosis, he was thought to have a relapse of disease with tuberculous osteomyelitis. Surprisingly, a biopsy revealed evidence of fungal osteomyelitis with Cryptococcus. An evaluation for primary immunodeficiency revealed low CD4 cell counts with undetectable serum IgA and IgM levels. Genetic sequencing proved a genetic mutation consistent with primary T-cell immunodeficiency. The patient responded well to treatment and is asymptomatic on follow-up.
13 Reasons Why, Perceived Norms, and Reports of Mental Health-Related Behavior Change among Adolescent and Young Adult Viewers in Four Global Regions
Authors: Carter Michael C. , Cingel Drew P. , Lauricella Alexis R. , Wartella Ellen
Published: June 2020

Media programing addressing controversial topics among youth has grown; however, research has yet to consider the correlates of viewing on a global scale. Using the theory of normative social behavior (TNSB), this study examined perceived norms about mental illness among a sample of 3,520 adolescent and young adult viewers and nonviewers of 13 Reasons Why in Australia/New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Brazil. We assessed the influence of viewer age and culture on the association between descriptive and injunctive mental illness norms and reports of prosocial mental health-related behaviors (e.g., talking about suicide with others). Results indicated a positive association between the number of episodes viewed and perceived norms, and among viewers, descriptive and injunctive norms related to reports of mental health-related behavior change in all regions, although the process differed based on age and culture. We conclude with implications for the predictions of the TNSB.
Resilience and Path Dependence: A Comparative Study of the Port Cities of London, Hamburg, and Philadelphia
Authors: Hein Carola , Schubert Dirk
Published: June 2020

Port spaces, functions, and interests have shaped the growth and development of many cities around the world. At times, different stakeholders—private and public, local, regional, national and global—have collaborated to assure the continuity of port functions in old and new locations and, if the port relocates or if that effort fails, to redevelop former port spaces. Through the lens of port- and city-related urban developments in London, Hamburg, and Philadelphia, this article explores the multiple conditions that are part of port city resilience. It uses historical institutionalism as a theoretical framework for understanding these long-term changes, particularly in institutional and governance dynamics. It shows that the development paths of port and city spaces and the actors who shape them are not always aligned. Through the case of London, it shows a development path that is led by private investment building and relocating a world-class port and administrating it from the city center, while local and national institutions only intervene to balance spatial or social short-comings of the private actors. The case of the city-state Hamburg illustrates the development of shared port-city paths under long-term public leadership that has provided direction for the expanding port as well as for the growing city. In the case of Philadelphia, national interests, the Navy, and private investments played an important role in the creation of port infrastructure and, later, in the largely failed transformation of former port areas into public waterfronts. As shipping elites left the city and new land-based employers emerged, such as the University of Pennsylvania, the port-city path was partly discontinued. The article concludes by pointing to the expected capacity of each of these cities to address future challenges. Awareness of historical practices can help readers understand where current conditions may stand in the way of innovative solutions.
Isolated Myxoma of the External Auditory Canal: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Hasnaoui Mehdi , Masmoudi Mohamed , Belaid Takwa , Mighri Khalifa
Published: June 2020

Myxoma is a benign myxoid tumor of connective tissue that develops primarily in the heart. At the level of the external auditory canal, it is extremely rare. It can be isolated or associated with Carney syndrome. Only 5 cases of isolated myxoma of the external auditory canal have been reported in the literature. We present the case of a 53-year-old patient who consulted for a hearing loss that has been evolving for 3 years. Otoscopy revealed a mass filling the external auditory canal. The scan showed a total filling of the external auditory canal with a homogenous sessile neoformation of 20 × 10 mm. This mass was completely resected and the histological examination showed spindle-shaped and star-shaped cells against an abundant myxoid background, which was consistent with myxoma. All the tests, done to eliminate Carney syndrome, did not reveal any abnormalities. The postoperative course was favorable, and no complications were noted. The patient was under follow-up. There was no recurrence 1 year after surgery.
RANK and RANKL Expression in Salivary Gland Tumors
Authors: Aslan Figen , Küçük Ülkü
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

The pathogenesis and molecular basis of salivary gland tumors (SGT) are not well understood. We investigated the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) and RANK ligand (RANKL) in benign and malignant SGTs and their relationship with clinicopathological features.

Methods:

Fifty malignant and 38 benign SGTs were analyzed in this study. We evaluated the correlation between RANK and RANKL expression and benign and malignant tumors, as well as the correlation between clinicopathological prognostic parameters and RANK and RANKL expression.

Results:

Receptor activator of nuclear factor κB was positive in 82% (41) malignant SGTs and in 34.2% (13) benign SGTs. Receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand was expressed in 28% (14) malignant and 5.3% (2) benign tumors. Receptor activator of nuclear factor κB and RANKL expression were significantly different between benign and malignant SGTs ( P < .001, P = .006, respectively). However, a relationship was not found between positive expression of RANK or RANKL and clinicopathological features.

Conclusions:

In our study, RANK and RANKL expression was found to be higher in malignant SGTs compared to benign SGTs and RANK was more sensitive than RANKL. In addition, RANK and RANKL expression was higher in some malignant histological subtypes. Based on these results, we think that RANK and RANKL expression in SGTs and its potential as a target for treatment should continue to be investigated.
Office Laser Laryngology: A Paradigm Shift
Authors: Hantzakos Anastasios G. , Khan Mumtaz
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

To present the value of office-based laryngological procedures as an effective alternative method to the treatment of benign and malignant laryngeal pathologies.

Methods:

We have reviewed the technological advancements of fiber-guided laser systems, fiberoptic endoscopes, and high-definition imaging systems that have enabled office-based laryngological procedures. We describe the importance of case and patient selection, the available laser systems, and the technique applied.

Results:

Several benign and malignant pathologies can be now treated in the office under local anesthesia with angiolytic or thermocoagulative lasers and with success rate comparable to that of general anesthesia. Safety guidelines and laser precautions must be implemented invariably to protect the patient and caregivers from the untoward effects of laser. Although there is considerable reduction of cost with office procedures, there are risks of undertreatment, increased repeatability, as well as tissue edema from the burning effect.

Conclusions:

The low learning curve, high patient satisfaction rate, and excellent results indicate that in-office laser procedures have become an effective weapon in our armamentarium.
Removal of Displaced Dental Implants in the Maxillary Sinus Using Endoscopic Approaches
Authors: Chang Po-Hung , Chen Yi-Wei , Huang Chi-Che , Fu Chia-Hsiang , Huang Chien-Chia , Lee Ta-Jen
Published: June 2020

With the broad indications for dental implantation, complications rates have increased. Dental implant displacement into the maxillary sinus, although rare, can occur during the restoration of maxillary posterior teeth. We performed a 6-year retrospective review and found 3 cases with displaced implants in the maxillary sinus. Detailed information, including surgical indications and dental implant removal methods, is provided. Dental implants can be dislocated to the maxillary sinus perioperatively or postoperatively. Endoscopic sinus surgery can be performed to remove the implant and restore sinus patency. If the implant is displaced to deeper areas (commonly anterior and inferior) of the maxillary sinus, a prelacrimal recess approach can provide a panoramic view of the maxillary sinus and is a good alternative to the Caldwell-Luc operation in terms of mucosal preservation and postoperative complications.
Dealing with digital: the economic organisation of streamed music
Authors: Towse Ruth
Published: June 2020

The intervention of digital service providers (DSPs) or platforms, such as Spotify Apple Music and Tidal, that supply streamed music has fundamentally altered the operation of copyright management organisations (CMOs) and the way song-writers and recording artists are paid. Platform economics has emerged from the economic analysis of two- and multi-sided markets, offering new insights into the way business is conducted in the digital sphere and is applied here to music streaming services. The business model for music streaming differs from previous arrangements by which the royalty paid to song-writers and performers was a percentage of sales. In the case of streamed music, payment is based on revenues from both subscriptions and ad-based free services. The DSP agrees a rate per stream with the various rights holders that varies according to the deal made with each of the major record labels, with CMOs, with representatives of independent labels and with unsigned artists and song-writers with consequences for artists’ earnings. The article discusses these various strands with a view to understanding royalty payments for streamed music in terms of platform economics, offering some data and information from the Norwegian music industry to give empirical support to the analysis.
Utilization of Invasive Procedures for Adult Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Authors: McCoul Edward D. , Weinreich Heather M. , Mulder Hillary , Man Li‐Xing , Schulz Kristine , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: June 2020

Objective

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common diagnosis among adults presenting for outpatient care. We sought to determine national utilization and the associated cost of invasive procedures for adult ETD.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

National health care database.

Subjects and Methods

The Truven Health MarketScan Databases (2010‐2014) analytic cohort included health care encounters of patients ≥18 years of age with a diagnosis of ETD or related conditions of otitis media with effusion (OME) or tympanic membrane retraction (TMR). Visits associated with recent diagnoses of acute upper respiratory infection, head and neck cancer, or radiation therapy were excluded. Invasive procedure usage was subdivided into nasal and otologic procedures.

Results

ETD, OME, or TMR was diagnosed in 1,298,987 patients, 11.1% of which were chronic. The most common procedure was diagnostic endoscopy (including nasal endoscopy and laryngopharyngoscopy), which was used most frequently in the first 3 months after diagnosis, during which it was performed in 120,971 (9.3%) patients. The most frequent therapeutic nasal procedure was eustachian tube inflation without catheterization, performed in 11,412 patients over 5 years at a total cost of $1,210,939 ($106 per person annually). The most common therapeutic otologic procedure was myringotomy with tympanostomy, performed on 56,137 patients over 5 years at a total cost of $47,713,708 ($810 per person annually).

Conclusion

Several nasal and otologic procedures are associated with a diagnosis of adult ETD at substantial cost. Development of therapeutic alternatives should be sought to mitigate the need for invasive procedures to treat this condition.
Porous Bodies: Environmental Biopower and the Politics of Life in Ancient Rome
Authors: Meloni Maurizio
Published: June 2020

The case for an unprecedented penetration of life mechanisms into the politics of Western modernity has been a cornerstone of 20th-century social theory. Working with and beyond Foucault, this article challenges established views about the history of biopower by focusing on ancient medical writings and practices of corporeal permeability. Through an analysis of three Roman institutions: a) bathing; b) urban architecture; and c) the military, it shows that technologies aimed at fostering and regulating life did exist in classical antiquity at the population scale. The article highlights zones of indistinction between natural and political processes, zoē and bíos, that are not captured by a view of destructive incorporation of or over life by sovereign power. In conclusion, the article discusses the theoretical potential of this historical evidence for contemporary debates on ‘affirmative biopolitics’ and ‘environmental biopower’.
Loading doses of ticagrelor versus clopidogrel in preventing periprocedural myocardial infarction in Asian patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Zhang Ya-Ru , Xue Zheng-Kai , Chen Kang-Yin , Xu Ling-Xia , Wang Wei-Ding , Tao Hua-Yue , Liu Tong- , Che Jing-Jin , Wang Xue-Wen , Rha Seung-Woon , Wang Jia-Rui , Wang Peng-
Published: June 2020

Background:

Periprocedural myocardial infarction is a common complication following percutaneous coronary intervention. The present study was conducted with an aim to compare the safety and efficacy of loading doses of ticagrelor versus clopidogrel in preventing periprocedural myocardial infarction in Asian patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods:

A total of 114 patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention were assigned to clopidogrel group (n = 57, the loading and maintenance doses were 300 and 75 mg qd for clopidogrel, and 300 and 100 mg qd for aspirin), or ticagrelor group (n = 57, the loading and maintenance doses were 180 and 90 mg bid for ticagrelor, and 300 and 100 mg qd for aspirin). Cardiac biomarkers were measured before, 8 hours, and 24 hours after percutaneous coronary intervention. The percutaneous coronary intervention–related periprocedural myocardial infarction was defined according to the fourth universal definition of myocardial infarction (2018).

Results:

The overall incidence of percutaneous coronary intervention–related periprocedural myocardial infarction was 21.1%. The ticagrelor group showed a significantly lower incidence of periprocedural myocardial infarction (12.3% vs 29.8%, p = 0.022) and numerically lower bleeding events (3.5% vs 8.8%, p = 0.242) as compared with clopidogrel group. No patient had major adverse cardiovascular events during the 1-month follow-up. The levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > 0.05), indicating that the benefits of ticagrelor were not from its anti-inflammatory effects. Multivariable analysis showed that the use of ticagrelor (odds ratio: 0.50; 95% confidence interval: 0.29-0.87; p = 0.014) and number of stents (odds ratio: 2.75; 95% confidence interval: 1.25-6.06; p = 0.012) were independent predictors of periprocedural myocardial infarction.

Conclusion:

Pretreatment with a loading dose of ticagrelor seems to be superior in reducing the incidence of percutaneous coronary intervention–related periprocedural myocardial infarction in Asian patients with acute coronary syndrome as compared with clopidogrel.
Robo-Apocalypse cancelled? Reframing the automation and future of work debate
Authors: Willcocks Leslie
Published: June 2020

Robotics and the automation of knowledge work, often referred to as AI (artificial intelligence), are presented in the media as likely to have massive impacts, for better or worse, on jobs skills, organizations and society. The article deconstructs the dominant hype-and-fear narrative. Claims on net job loss emerge as exaggerated, but there will be considerable skills disruption and change in the major global economies over the next 12 years. The term AI has been hijacked, in order to suggest much more going on technologically than can be the case. The article reviews critically the research evidence so far, including the author’s own, pointing to eight major qualifiers to the dominant discourse of major net job loss from a seamless, overwhelming AI wave sweeping fast through the major economies. The article questions many assumptions: that automation creates few jobs short or long term; that whole jobs can be automated; that the technology is perfectible; that organizations can seamlessly and quickly deploy AI; that humans are machines that can be replicated; and that it is politically, socially and economically feasible to apply these technologies. A major omission in all studies is factoring in dramatic increases in the amount of work to be done. Adding in ageing populations, productivity gaps and skills shortages predicted across many G20 countries, the danger might be too little, rather than too much labour. The article concludes that, if there is going to be a Robo-Apocalypse, this will be from a collective failure to adjust to skills change over the next 12 years. But the debate needs to be widened to the impact of eight other technologies that AI insufficiently represents in the popular imagination and that, in combination, could cause a techno-apocalypse.
Compared to conventional physiotherapy, does the use of an ankle trainer device after Weber B ankle fracture operation improve outcome and shorten hospital stay? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Molund Marius , Hellesnes Jan , Berdal Gøran , Andreassen Bernt Stray , Andreassen Geir Stray
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To compare the functional outcomes and length of hospital stay for patients treated with conventional physiotherapy compared to a new ankle trainer device after Weber B ankle fractures.

Design:

The patients were randomized, and then followed up at 3, 6, 12 and 52 weeks by a blinded physiotherapist.

Setting:

This study was done at a level 1 trauma centre.

Subjects:

One hundred and forty consecutive patients with Weber B ankle fractures that were operated on were screened for eligibility, of whom 113 were included in the study.

Interventions:

Conventional physiotherapy with stretching exercises, using a non-elastic band or using new ankle trainer.

Main measures:

Outcomes were evaluated with Olerud–Molander ankle score, Visual analogue scale for pain and ankle dorsiflexion at 3, 6, 12 and 52 weeks follow-up. Time of hospitalization and complications were registered.

Results:

Superior Olerud–Molander ankle scores were observed at three weeks follow-up in the ankle trainer group 40.9 (10.8), compared to the conventional group 35.3 (14.2) ( P = 0.021). At one-year follow-up, there was no difference between the groups ( P = 0.386). The ankle trainer group had a shorter hospital stay with a mean 2.6 days (0.98) compared to 3.2 days (1.47) in the conventional group ( P = 0.026).

Conclusion:

The patients who were treated with the new ankle trainer device recovered more rapidly, evaluated by the Olerud–Molander ankle score and had a shorter stay in hospital compared to the conventional physiotherapy group. No between group differences could be observed at long-term follow-up.
Decision Regret among Informal Caregivers Making Housing Decisions for Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment: A Cross-sectional Analysis
Authors: Elidor Hélène , Ben Charif Ali , Djade Codjo Djignefa , Adekpedjou Rhéda , Légaré France
Published: June 2020

Background. Informal caregivers are regularly faced with difficult housing decisions for older adults with cognitive impairment. They often regret the decision they made. We aimed to identify factors associated with decision regret among informal caregivers engaging in housing decisions for cognitively impaired older adults. Methods. We performed a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data collected from a cluster-randomized trial. Eligible participants were informal caregivers involved in making housing decisions for cognitively impaired older adults. Decision regret was assessed after caregivers’ enrollment in the study using the Decision Regret Scale (DRS), scored from 0 to 100. We used a conceptual framework of potential predictors of regret to identify independent variables. We performed multilevel analyses using a mixed linear model by estimating fixed effects (β) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results. The mean (SD) DRS score of 296 informal caregivers (mean [SD] age, 62 [12] years) was 12.4 (18.4). Factors associated with less decision regret were having a college degree compared to primary education (β [95% CI]: –11.14 [–18.36, –3.92]), being married compared to being single (–5.60 [–10.05, –1.15]), informal caregivers’ perception that a joint process occurred (–0.14 [–0.25, –0.02]), and older adults’ not having a specific housing preference compared to preferring to stay at home (–4.13 [–7.40, –0.86]). Factors associated with more decision regret were being retired compared to being a homemaker (7.74 [1.32, 14.16]), higher burden of care (0.14 [0.05, 0.22]), and higher decisional conflict (0.51 [0.34, 0.67]). Limitations. Our analysis may not illustrate all predictors of decision regret among informal caregivers. Conclusions. Our findings will allow risk-mitigation strategies for informal caregivers at risk of experiencing regret.
Eliciting Medical Maximizing-Minimizing Preferences with a Single Question: Development and Validation of the MM1
Authors: Scherer Laura D. , Zikmund-Fisher Brian J.
Published: June 2020

The 10-item validated Medical Maximizer-Minimizer Scale (MMS-10) assesses patients’ preferences for aggressive v. more passive approaches to health care. However, because many research or clinical situations do not allow for use of a 10-item scale, we developed a single-item maximizer-minimizer elicitation question (the MM1) based on our experiences describing the construct to patient groups, clinical researchers, and the public. In 2 large samples of US adults ( N = 368 and N = 814), the correlation between MMS-10 scores and the MM1 was .52 and .60, respectively. Both measures were robust predictors of medical preferences in a set of 12 hypothetical scenarios, and both had strong (and roughly equivalent) associations with 7 self-report measures of health care utilization. Our results demonstrate that the MM1 is a valid, brief elicitation of maximizing-minimizing preferences that can be used in clinical or research contexts where the 10-item scale is infeasible.
Learning melodic musical intervals: To block or to interleave?
Authors: Wong Sarah Shi Hui , Chen Si , Lim Stephen Wee Hun
Published: June 2020

Musical interval identification is a valuable skill for holistic and sophisticated musicianship. Yet, discriminating and identifying intervals is often challenging, especially for musical novices. Drawing on cognitive psychological principles, we built two experiments that investigated the utility of interleaving in enhancing novices’ aural identification of melodic ascending intervals. Specifically, we designed a novel programmed intervention during which novices learnt six interval types in an interleaved schedule (different interval types learnt interspersed) and six interval types in a blocked schedule (each interval type drilled several times before proceeding to the next) within a single session. When implemented in combination with familiar reference songs and singing as supplementary learning aids, interleaving and blocking yielded comparable performance on a test requiring participants to classify novel instances of the studied interval types (Experiment 1). However, in the absence of reference songs and singing, a robust interleaving effect emerged—interleaving produced superior musical interval identification than blocking (Experiment 2). Yet, most participants were unaware of the benefits of interleaving, and misjudged blocking to be more effective. These findings highlight the potential influence of context under which interleaving is a beneficial technique for learning melodic musical intervals.
Relational aggression and youth empowerment within a high school instrumental music program
Authors: Rawlings Jared R , Young Jacob
Published: June 2020

Peer group effects of relational victimization and empowerment among high school instrumental music students were examined using a cross-sectional design. We evaluated the homophily hypothesis that states peer group membership influences individual-level relational aggression and feelings of empowerment. Peer groups were identified using social network analysis, suggesting that participation in marching band significantly impacts feelings of empowerment reducing self-reported relational victimization, even after controlling for gender, caring behaviors, and positive attitudes toward bullying. The impact of peer group membership suggests that future studies consider peer relations across whole school populations and subtypes of aggression.
How the Good Lives Model Can Complement Mentalization-Based Treatments for Individuals Who Have Offended With Anti-Social Personality Disorder and General Forensic Mental Health Needs: Practice Update
Authors: Byrne Gary
Published: June 2020

Limited research to date has focused on strengths-based rehabilitative approaches, such as the Good Lives Model (GLM) and the additive benefits such approaches have in ameliorating mental health needs of those in contact with forensic services. Mentalization-based therapies (MBTs) may be an effective treatment in forensic settings. This article aims to provide an overview of how GLM theory can integrate MBT within forensic settings. The review provides a conceptual overview of the many commonalities between GLM and MBT principles and provides information about how MBT can be embedded within forensic communities adhering to GLM principles. The article closes by offering an overview of the evidence of MBT approaches for individuals with anti-social personality disorder (ASPD) and those in contact with forensic services.
Computational fluid dynamics study of Savonius rotors using OpenFOAM
Authors: González Madina Federico , Gutiérrez Alejandro , Galione Pedro
Published: June 2020

In this work, two-dimensional models of Savonius rotors are simulated using OpenFOAM® in order to predict the aerodynamic performance of small-scale vertical-axis wind turbines. The results are reported analyzing the aerodynamic performance and forces acting on the rotors. Power coefficient, [Formula: see text], is compared with experimental data for each operation point, and for three different geometries. Simulations with first- and second-order discretization schemes are carried out and compared, both quantitative and qualitative. Since usual grid dimensions result not to be suitable for simulations of Savonius rotors, an analysis of different domains is performed and compared. Finally, a set up for computational fluid dynamics simulation of two-dimensional Savonius rotors is proposed. The fluid–rotor interaction is analyzed and the vortex shedding is correlated with [Formula: see text] values and wake description.
The Effects of Improved Nutrition in Early Childhood on Adolescent and Early Adulthood Body Size, Composition, Maturity, and Function: Results From the First INCAP Follow-Up Study
Authors: Haas Jere D. , Rivera-Dommarco Juan
Published: June 2020

The first follow-up study of the original Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama Longitudinal Study was conducted in 1988 to 1989 when participants were between the ages of 11 and 27 years. The longer term effects of the original supplementation in early life of either high protein and energy, Atole, or no protein and low energy, Fresco, were seen in anthropometry, skeletal maturation, physical work capacity, and intellectual development, with maximum benefit seen in those participants who had maximum exposure to the supplementation during prenatal and early postnatal years. No effects were observed in bone mineralization and menarche. The long-term positive effects are consistent with the promotion of improved nutrition during the first 1000 days and established the foundation for further follow-up studies as the participants move into adulthood and further develop their human capital.
Impact of Nutrition on the Next Generation: The INCAP Longitudinal Study
Authors: Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: June 2020

Background:

The design of the original nutrition supplementation trial that was conducted from 1969 to 1977 in 4 villages in rural Guatemala to evaluate the benefits of improving nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood, combined with several follow-up studies, provides unique data to examine the effects of improving nutrition on the next generation.

Objective:

This article provides a summary of the key findings from the INCAP Longitudinal Study on the intergenerational effects of improving nutrition on the growth and well-being of the next generation.

Methods:

The key outcomes include offspring birth size as well as attained size and body composition through age 11 years. The sample sizes varied from approximately 200 to 800 depending on the timing of the follow-up studies and data collection protocols. The effects of parental birth size, maternal linear growth from birth through adulthood, and exposure to the nutrition intervention, that is, Atole versus Fresco during critical periods from prenatal through age 15 years, have been examined using complex models and approaches.

Results:

Overall, these publications demonstrate clear improvements in the growth of the next generation. Effects were seen primarily for maternal exposure to Atole and were larger for boys compared to girls. Stunting during early childhood among girls was also a significant predictor of offspring birth size, and younger age at first pregnancy (<20 years) was associated with an increased risk of stunting in the offspring.

Conclusions:

These studies have contributed significantly to our understanding of the importance of investing in nutrition, especially during early childhood for future generations.
Market Access, Production Diversity, and Diet Diversity: Evidence From India
Authors: Gupta Soumya , Sunder Naveen , Pingali Prabhu L.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Recent literature, largely from Africa, shows mixed effects of own-production on diet diversity. However, the role of own-production, relative to markets, in influencing food consumption becomes more pronounced as market integration increases.

Objective:

This paper investigates the relative importance of two factors - production diversity and household market integration - for the intake of a nutritious diet by women and households in rural India.

Methods:

Data analysis is based on primary data from an extensive agriculture-nutrition survey of 3600 Indian households that was collected in 2017. Dietary diversity scores are constructed for women and households is based on 24-hour and 7-day recall periods. Household market integration is measured as monthly household expenditure on key non-staple food groups. We measure production diversity in two ways - field-level and on-farm production diversity - in order to account for the cereal centric rice-wheat cropping system found in our study locations. The analysis is based on Ordinary Least Squares regressions where we control for a variety of village, household, and individual level covariates that affect food consumption, and village fixed effects. Robustness checks are done by way of using a Poisson regression specifications and 7-day recall period.

Results:

Conventional measures of field-level production diversity, like the number of crops or food groups grown, have no significant association with diet diversity. In contrast, it is on-farm production diversity (the field-level cultivation of pulses and on-farm livestock management, and kitchen gardens in the longer run) that is significantly associated with improved dietary diversity scores, thus suggesting the importance of non-staples in improving both individual and household dietary diversity. Furthermore, market purchases of non-staples like pulses and dairy products are associated with a significantly higher dietary diversity. Other significant determinants of dietary diversity include women’s literacy and awareness of nutrition. These results mostly remain robust to changes in the recall period of the diet diversity measure and the nature of the empirical specification.

Conclusions:

This study contributes to the scarce empirical evidence related to diets in India. Additionally, our results indicate some key intervention areas - promoting livestock rearing, strengthening households’ market integration (for purchase of non-staples) and increasing women’s awareness about nutrition. These are more impactful than raising production diversity.