bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Runtime Analysis of Restricted Tournament Selection for Bimodal
Optimisation
Authors: Osuna Edgar Covantes , Sudholt Dirk
Published: April 2021

Niching methods have been developed to maintain the population diversity, to investigate many peaks in parallel, and to reduce the effect of genetic drift. We present the first rigorous runtime analyses of restricted tournament selection (RTS), embedded in a (μ+1) EA, and analyse its effectiveness at finding both optima of the bimodal function TwoMax. In RTS, an offspring competes against the closest individual, with respect to some distance measure, amongst w (window size) population members (chosen uniformly at random with replacement), to encourage competition within the same niche. We prove that RTS finds both optima on TwoMax efficiently if the window size w is large enough. However, if w is too small, RTS fails to find both optima even in exponential time, with high probability. We further consider a variant of RTS selecting individuals for the tournament without replacement. It yields a more diverse tournament and is more effective at preventing one niche from taking over the other. However, this comes at the expense of a slower progress towards optima when a niche collapses to a single individual. Our theoretical results are accompanied by experimental studies that shed light on parameters not covered by the theoretical results and support a conjectured lower runtime bound.
The Univariate Marginal Distribution Algorithm Copes Well with
Deception and Epistasis
Authors: Doerr Benjamin , Krejca Martin S.
Published: April 2021

In their recent work, Lehre and Nguyen (2019) show that the univariate marginal distribution algorithm (UMDA) needs time exponential in the parent populations size to optimize the DeceptiveLeadingBlocks (DLB) problem. They conclude from this result that univariate EDAs have difficulties with deception and epistasis. In this work, we show that this negative finding is caused by the choice of the parameters of the UMDA. When the population sizes are chosen large enough to prevent genetic drift, then the UMDA optimizes the DLB problem with high probability with at most λ(n2+2elnn) fitness evaluations. Since an offspring population size λ of order nlogn can prevent genetic drift, the UMDA can solve the DLB problem with O(n2logn) fitness evaluations. In contrast, for classic evolutionary algorithms no better runtime guarantee than O(n3) is known (which we prove to be tight for the (1+1) EA), so our result rather suggests that the UMDA can cope well with deception and epistatis. From a broader perspective, our result shows that the UMDA can cope better with local optima than many classic evolutionary algorithms; such a result was previously known only for the compact genetic algorithm. Together with the lower bound of Lehre and Nguyen, our result for the first time rigorously proves that running EDAs in the regime with genetic drift can lead to drastic performance losses.
Training Spiking Neural Networks in the Strong Coupling Regime
Authors: Kim Christopher M. , Chow Carson C.
Published: April 2021

Recurrent neural networks trained to perform complex tasks can provide insight into the dynamic mechanism that underlies computations performed by cortical circuits. However, due to a large number of unconstrained synaptic connections, the recurrent connectivity that emerges from network training may not be biologically plausible. Therefore, it remains unknown if and how biological neural circuits implement dynamic mechanisms proposed by the models. To narrow this gap, we developed a training scheme that, in addition to achieving learning goals, respects the structural and dynamic properties of a standard cortical circuit model: strongly coupled excitatory-inhibitory spiking neural networks. By preserving the strong mean excitatory and inhibitory coupling of initial networks, we found that most of trained synapses obeyed Dale's law without additional constraints, exhibited large trial-to-trial spiking variability, and operated in inhibition-stabilized regime. We derived analytical estimates on how training and network parameters constrained the changes in mean synaptic strength during training. Our results demonstrate that training recurrent neural networks subject to strong coupling constraints can result in connectivity structure and dynamic regime relevant to cortical circuits.
A Framework of Learning Through Empirical Gain Maximization
Authors: Feng Yunlong , Wu Qiang
Published: April 2021

We develop in this letter a framework of empirical gain maximization (EGM) to address the robust regression problem where heavy-tailed noise or outliers may be present in the response variable. The idea of EGM is to approximate the density function of the noise distribution instead of approximating the truth function directly as usual. Unlike the classical maximum likelihood estimation that encourages equal importance of all observations and could be problematic in the presence of abnormal observations, EGM schemes can be interpreted from a minimum distance estimation viewpoint and allow the ignorance of those observations. Furthermore, we show that several well-known robust nonconvex regression paradigms, such as Tukey regression and truncated least square regression, can be reformulated into this new framework. We then develop a learning theory for EGM by means of which a unified analysis can be conducted for these well-established but not fully understood regression approaches. This new framework leads to a novel interpretation of existing bounded nonconvex loss functions. Within this new framework, the two seemingly irrelevant terminologies, the well-known Tukey's biweight loss for robust regression and the triweight kernel for nonparametric smoothing, are closely related. More precisely, we show that Tukey's biweight loss can be derived from the triweight kernel. Other frequently employed bounded nonconvex loss functions in machine learning, such as the truncated square loss, the Geman-McClure loss, and the exponential squared loss, can also be reformulated from certain smoothing kernels in statistics. In addition, the new framework enables us to devise new bounded nonconvex loss functions for robust learning.
Aligning Faithful Interpretations with their Social Attribution
Authors: Jacovi Alon , Goldberg Yoav
Published: April 2021

We find that the requirement of model interpretations to be faithful is vague and incomplete. With interpretation by textual highlights as a case study, we present several failure cases. Borrowing concepts from social science, we identify that the problem is a misalignment between the causal chain of decisions (causal attribution) and the attribution of human behavior to the interpretation (social attribution). We reformulate faithfulness as an accurate attribution of causality to the model, and introduce the concept of aligned faithfulness: faithful causal chains that are aligned with their expected social behavior. The two steps of causal attribution and social attribution together complete the process of explaining behavior. With this formalization, we characterize various failures of misaligned faithful highlight interpretations, and propose an alternative causal chain to remedy the issues. Finally, we implement highlight explanations of the proposed causal format using contrastive explanations.
Updating the knowledge of the flower flies (Diptera: Syrphidae) from Chile: Illustrated catalog, extinction risk and biological notes
Authors: BARAHONA-SEGOVIA RODRIGO M. , RIERA PAMELA , PAÑINAO-MONSÁLVEZ LAURA , GUZMÁN VICENTE VALDÉS , HENRÍQUEZ-PISKULICH PATRICIA
Published: April 2021

Syrphidae, more commonly known as flower flies, are considered one of the most important Diptera families worldwide because of their critical role in pollination, biological control and decomposition of organic matter. The study of these flies in Chile has stagnated due to a lack of local experts as well as the absence of an updated catalog of species. This study is an attempt to remedy the latter of these issues by providing an illustrated and updated catalog to the Syrphidae of Chile. Species are presented under currently accepted names, with synonyms and previous combinations listed and original references. Type localities, world and Chilean distribution by geopolitical Chilean regions, taxonomic and biological notes, a complete record of bibliographic references and extinction risk under IUCN Red List criteria are provided. This catalog recognizes 132 species of Syrphidae, belonging to four subfamilies (Eristalinae, Microdontinae, Pipizinae and Syrphinae), 13 tribes and 47 genera. A total of 46 species (34.84 %) is restricted to the geopolitical territory of Chile. Eight species are considered exotic, one is considered incertae sedis and three are based on doubtful records. Seventeen species of 10 different genera (Copestylum Macquart, 1846; Dolichogyna Macquart, 1842; Eosalpingogaster Hull, 1949b; Eupeodes Osten Sacken, 1877; Meromacrus Rondani, 1848; Palpada Macquart, 1834; Paragus Latreille, 1804; Sphiximorpha Rondani, 1850; Sterphus Philippi, 1865 and Toxomerus Macquart, 1855) are reported from Chile for the first time. A total of 44 species (33.33 %) reported from Chile are directly threatened by human activities such as agriculture, forestry, mining and/or urbanization and indirectly by climate change. The gaps found in the geographic distribution of Chilean flower fly species and what it means for its use by disciplines such as ecology, floral biology and agronomy, are discussed. In addition, the use of this illustrated catalog for biological conservation, the potential definition of priority areas and ecosystem management plans based on this group of Diptera are also discussed.
Recent Climate Variability around the Kerguelen Islands (Southern Ocean) Seen through Weather Regimes
Authors: Pohl Benjamin , Saucède Thomas , Favier Vincent , Pergaud Julien , Verfaillie Deborah , Féral Jean-Pierre , Krasniqi Ylber , Richard Yves
Published: April 2021

Daily weather regimes are defined around the Kerguelen Islands (Southern Ocean) on the basis of daily 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies derived from the ERA5 ensemble reanalysis over the period 1979–2018. Ten regimes are retained as significant. Their occurrences are highly consistent across reanalysis ensemble members. Regimes show weak seasonality and nonsignificant long-term trends in their occurrences. Their sequences are usually short (1–3 days), with extreme persistence values above 10 days. Seasonal regime frequency is mostly driven by the phase of the southern annular mode over Antarctica, midlatitude dynamics over the Southern Ocean such as the Pacific–South American mode, and, to a lesser extent, tropical variability, with significant but weaker relationships with El Niño–Southern Oscillation. At the local scale over the Kerguelen Islands, regimes have a strong influence on measured atmospheric and oceanic variables, including minimum and maximum air temperature, mostly driven by horizontal advections, seawater temperature recorded 5 m below the surface, wind speed, and sea level pressure. Relationships are weaker for precipitation amounts. Regimes also modify regional contrasts between observational sites in Kerguelen, highlighting strong exposure contrasts. The regimes allow us to improve our understanding of weather and climate variability and interactions in this region; they will be used in future work to assess past and projected long-term circulation changes in the southern midlatitudes.
Ileal Pouch Excision can Be Performed With Similar Outcomes in Obese Patients Compared to Nonobese Counterparts: An Assessment From American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Esen Eren , Aytac Erman , Aydinli H. Hande , Grieco Michael J. , Erkan Arman , Kirat Hasan T. , Schwartzberg David M. , Baca Bilgi , Karahasanoglu Tayfun , Remzi Feza H.
Published: April 2021

Background

Failed pouches may tend to be managed with only a loop ileostomy in obese patients due to some safety concerns. The effect of obesity on ileal pouch excision outcomes is poorly studied. In our study, we aimed to assess the short-term outcomes after ileal pouch excision in obese patients compared to their nonobese counterparts.

Methods

The patients who underwent pouch excision between 2005 and 2017 were included using ACS-NSQIP participant user files. The operative outcomes were compared between obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) and nonobese (BMI<30 kg/m2) groups.

Results

There were 507 pouch excision patients included of which eighty (15.7%) of them were obese. Physical status of the obese patients tended to be worse (ASA>3, 56.3 vs 42.9%, P = .027). There were more patients who had diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT) in the obese group (26.3% vs. 11.2%, P = .015; 11.3 vs. 4.4%, P < .001, respectively). Operative time was similar between 2 groups (mean ± SD, 275 ± 111 vs. 252±111 minutes, P = .084). Deep incisional SSI was more commonly observed in the obese group (7.5 vs 2.8%, P = .038). In multivariate analysis, only deep incisional SSI was found to be independently associated with obesity (OR: 2.79, 95% CI: 1.02-7.67). Obese patients were readmitted more frequently than nonobese counterparts (28.3 vs 16%, P = .035). The length of hospital stay was comparable [median (IQR), 7 (4-13.5) vs. 7 (5-11) days, P = .942].

Conclusion

Ileal pouch excision can be performed in obese patients with largely similar outcomes compared to their nonobese counterparts although obesity is associated with a higher rate of deep space infection.
A Single Institution Propensity Score Weighted Analysis of Time to Chemotherapy After Minimally Invasive Versus Open Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Patel Samik H. , Battaglia Michael A. , Shanker Beth-Ann , Cleary Robert K.
Published: April 2021

Background

Oncologic outcomes for colon cancer are optimal when chemotherapy is started within 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. The study objective was to investigate the impact of operative modality and urgency on the time interval from surgery to adjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods

This is a retrospective institutional tumor registry cohort study of open and laparoscopic/robotic colorectal resections for stage II-IV cancer between April 2010 and January 2018. Primary outcome was time from surgery to chemotherapy. Predictor variables were adjusted for imbalances by propensity score weighting.

Results

A total of 220 patients met inclusion criteria: 171 elective (108 laparoscopic/robotic and 63 open) and 49 urgent colectomies. After propensity score weighting, there was no significant difference in time to chemotherapy between elective minimally invasive and open surgical approaches (48 days vs. 58 days, P = .187). Only 68.9% of minimally invasive and 50.8% of open colectomy patients started chemotherapy within 8 weeks of surgery. There was a significant difference ( P = .037) among surgical sites with rectal resections having the longest (55 days), and right colectomies having the shortest (46 days), time to chemotherapy. Patients who had urgent operations had significantly longer hospital length of stay ( P < .001) and higher post-discharge emergency department visit rates ( P < .001) than the elective operation group. However, there was no significant difference in time to chemotherapy.

Discussion

Neither operative modality nor operative urgency resulted in a significant difference in postoperative time to initiating chemotherapy. Future efforts should be focused on identifying postoperative recovery criteria and optimum multidisciplinary communication methods that allow recovered patients to start chemotherapy sooner.
A Case Series of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR-Positive Hospitalized Infants 60 Days of Age or Younger From 2 New York City Pediatric Emergency Departments
Authors: Hassoun Ameer , Dahan Nessy , Kelly Christopher
Published: April 2021

The emergence of novel coronavirus disease-2019 poses an unprecedented challenge to pediatricians. While the majority of children experience mild disease, initial case reports on young infants are conflicting. We present a case series of 8 hospitalized infants 60 days of age or younger with coronavirus disease-2019. A quarter of these patients had coinfections (viral or bacterial). None of these infants had severe disease. Continued vigilance in testing this vulnerable group of infants is warranted.
Post-Release Source of Income and Convictions of Formerly Incarcerated Adults
Authors: Verweij Suzan , Weijters Gijs , Wermink Hilde , Blokland Arjan A.J.
Published: April 2021

This study examines the relationship between post-release source of income and convictions for different types of crime. Longitudinal data from a sample of formerly incarcerated adults ( n = 10,879) released from Dutch prisons were used. Fixed effects models show that, compared with receiving social benefits, post-release employment is associated with a lower probability of convictions for crime in general, and for property crime. Persons who are not employed and do not receive benefits have a higher likelihood of conviction for any crime, property crime, and violent crime compared with those receiving social benefits. The magnitude of this positive relationship is stronger for those living alone, for women, and for persons older than 25. Results have implications for crime control policies.
Providing Support to Victims: Police Officers’ Service Referral Provision and Advocate Involvement in Domestic Violence Incidents
Authors: Goodson Amanda , Garza Alondra D. , Franklin Cortney A.
Published: April 2021

Limited research has investigated police service provision and advocate involvement in domestic violence (DV) incidents. This study used a stratified random sample of 368 cases from an urban police department to assess police officers’ decisions to provide service provision and to involve an advocate in formally-reported DV incidents. Multivariate binary logistic regression models revealed decreased suspect age and presence of physical abuse significantly increased service referral. Advocate involvement significantly decreased when the victim and suspect were married, when the suspect used alcohol and/or drugs, and when there was physical evidence present in the case. Alternatively, suspect weapon use, victim injury, and service referral by police increased later advocate involvement. Implications and future research directions are discussed.
Time for Time: Uncovering Case Processing Duration as a Source of Punitiveness
Authors: Liu Lin , Dunlea R.R. , Kutateladze Besiki Luka
Published: April 2021

The literature on sentencing has devoted ample consideration to how prosecutors and judges incorporate priorities such as retribution and public safety into their decision making, typically using legal and extralegal characteristics as analytic proxies. In contrast, the role of case processing efficiency in determining punishment outcomes has garnered little attention. Using recent data from a large Florida jurisdiction, we examine the influence of case screening and disposition timeliness on sentence outcomes in felony cases. We find that lengthier case processing time is highly and positively associated with punitive outcomes at sentencing. The more time prosecutors spend on a case post-filing, the more likely defendants are to receive custodial sentences and longer sentences. Case screening time, although not affecting the imposition of custodial sentences, is also positively associated with sentence length. These findings are discussed through the lens of instrumental and expressive functions of punishment.
Children’s life in superdiversity contexts: Impacts on the construction of a children’s citizenship – the Portuguese case
Authors: Leitão Ferreira Jorge Manuel
Published: April 2021

This article develops a reflexive and interpretive analysis of the life of children in superdiversity contexts, systematizing some of its impacts on the construction of a children’s citizenship, with particular reference to the Portuguese case. The article promotes the conceptual construction of the child in the 21st century through the correlation of qualitative analysis variables based on a multidisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary theoretical framework. The article introduces the child protection system in Portugal within a framework of European and international influences. It identifies the indicators present in public policies and in the social welfare system that affect child protection in a cross-analysis with the professional practices that intervene with children and families. The author addresses the questions of the ecosocial dimension in the territorialized intervention of family policies in contemporary and multiple approaches to superdiversity. For policy-makers and practitioners in local government, NGOs and social services, appreciating the dimensions and dynamics of superdiversity has profound implications for how they might understand and deal with modes of difference and their interactions within the population. The article concludes with a systematization on the current problems regarding the child as a citizen in contemporary society.
Bridging the know–do gap in African road safety through social work
Authors: Jones Steven , Carlson Catherine , Sumner-Jones Frances , Musoni Olive
Published: April 2021

The global road safety crisis disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Indeed, with relatively low rates of vehicle ownership, Africa bears a disproportionate burden of annual road fatalities per population. Transportation and public health professionals have long been aware of the behavioral aspects of the global road safety epidemic. Successful collaboration of social work and public health in Africa is well documented. Road safety presents an opportunity for interdisciplinary research and practice with road safety professionals to bridge the know–do gap that continues to challenge progress toward reducing the burden of injuries and deaths attributable to crashes.
The effect of structural parameters on quasi-static compression performance of bi-directional trapezoid honeycomb
Authors: Xing Youdong , Yang Siyi , Li Zhongfang , Ma Wan , An Yukun
Published: April 2021

A porous material –Bi-directional Trapezoid Honeycomb (BDTH) which is different from the traditional honeycomb structure, has same energy absorption properties in the Y and Z directions was studied. The structural parameters (cell size, cell thickness) have a great influence on the compression performance. 3 kinds of cell size ( a) and 4 kinds of cell thickness ( t0) totally 7 kinds of BDTH were manufactured. The quasi-static compression test was carried out with experiment and numerical simulation, and the results were obtained. The effects of material deformation modes and energy absorption are analyzed. Next, based on Gibson-Ashby theory, the relationship between density, initial peak stress, plateau stress, densification strain and the ratio of t0/a were deduced.
Acceptance of Society-Level and Individual-Level Preventive Measures during the COVID-19 Pandemic among College Students in Three Societies
Authors: Zhu Nan , Smetana Judith G. , Chang Lei
Published: April 2021

Drawing from social domain theory, this study examined people’s evaluation of society-level disease-prevention regulations (e.g., school closure) and personal precautions (e.g., wearing a facemask) during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, as assessed in Spring, 2020. Participants from three countries (United States [US], China, and Japan; N = 528) rated their acceptance of a range of society-level and individual-level preventive measures and then indicated their main reasons for these ratings, which were categorized as moral, societal, personal, and prudential based on social domain theory. Consistent with this theoretical framework, we found both similarities and differences across the three societies. Specifically, we found that, across the three societies, moral considerations predicted higher acceptance of society-level preventive measures, whereas personal considerations predicted lower acceptance of both society-level and individual-level preventive measures. However, a stronger link between societal considerations and higher acceptance of society-level preventive measures was found for Chinese participants than for US and Japanese participants.
A Biphasic Feature of Gli1+-Mesenchymal Progenitors during Cementogenesis That Is Positively Controlled by Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Xie X. , Xu C. , Zhao H. , Wang J. , Feng J.Q.
Published: April 2021

Cementum, a specialized bony layer covering an entire molar root surface, anchors teeth into alveolar bone. Gli1, a key transcriptional activator in Hedgehog signaling, has been identified as a mesenchymal progenitor cell marker in various tissues, including the periodontal ligament (PDL). To address the mechanisms by which Gli1+ progenitor cells contribute to cementogenesis, we used the Gli1lacZ/+ knock-in line to mark Gli1+ progenitors and the Gli1CreERT2/+; R26RtdTomato/+ line (named Gli1Lin) to trace Gli1 progeny cells during cementogenesis. Our data unexpectedly displayed a biphasic feature of Gli1+ PDL progenitor cells and cementum growth: a negative relationship between Gli1+ progenitor cell number and cementogenesis but a positive correlation between Gli1-derived acellular and cellular cementoblast cell number and cementum growth. DTA-ablation of Gli1Lin cells led to a cementum hypoplasia, including a significant reduction of both acellular and cellular cementoblast cells. Gain-of-function studies (by constitutive stabilization of β-catenin in Gli1Lin cells) revealed a cementum hyperplasia. A loss of function (by conditional deletion of β-catenin in Gli1+ cells) resulted in a reduction of postnatal cementum growth. Together, our studies support a vital role of Gli1+ progenitor cells in contribution to both types of cementum, in which canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling positively regulates the differentiation of Gli1+ progenitors to cementoblasts during cementogenesis.
Early Origins of Body Mass in Later Life: Examining Childhood Risks and Adult Pathways
Authors: Mustillo Sarah A. , Li Miao , Morton Patricia , Ferraro Kenneth F.
Published: April 2021

Prior research reveals that negative early-life experiences play a major role in the development of obesity in later life, but few studies identify mechanisms that alter the lifetime risk of obesity. This study examines the influence of negative childhood experiences on body mass index (BMI) and obesity (BMI ≥30) during older adulthood and the psychosocial and behavioral pathways involved. Using a nationally representative sample, we examine the influence of cumulative misfortune as well as five separate domains of misfortune on BMI and obesity. Results show that four of the five domains are associated with BMI and obesity either directly, indirectly, or both. The influence of cumulative misfortune on the outcomes is mediated by three adult factors: socioeconomic status, depressive symptoms, and physical activity. The mediators identified here provide targets for intervention among older adults to help offset the health risks of excess BMI attributable of early-life exposure to misfortune.
The Signal Value of Crowdfunded Products
Authors: Acar Oguz A. , Dahl Darren W. , Fuchs Christoph , Schreier Martin
Published: April 2021

Crowdfunding has emerged as an alternative means of financing new ventures by utilizing the financial support of a large group of individual investors. This research asks a novel question: Does being crowdfunded carry any signal value for the broader market of observing consumers? Seven studies reveal a consumer preference for crowdfunded products, even after controlling for a product’s objective product characteristics. The authors identify two inferences that help explain this effect: (1) consumers perceive crowdfunded products to be of higher quality, and (2) they believe that supporting crowdfunding reduces inequality in the marketplace. The authors further document an important boundary condition of the first inference: the identified effect reverses in high-risk domains (e.g., products that involve high physical risk) due to consumer perceptions that the crowdfunding model lacks sufficient professionalism to mitigate risk. With regard to the second inference, the authors find that the positive crowdfunding effect is particularly strong among consumers who value social equality. Taken together, this work sheds new light on consumer perceptions of crowdfunding, elucidates why and when consumers prefer crowdfunded products, and offers actionable implications for managers.
Improving Business-to-Business Customer Satisfaction Programs: Assessment of Asymmetry, Heterogeneity, and Financial Impact
Authors: Mittal Vikas , Han Kyuhong , Lee Ju-Yeon , Sridhar Shrihari
Published: April 2021

Business-to-business (B2B) companies devote significant resources to measure customer satisfaction but lack guidance on critical aspects of implementing satisfaction programs. Accordingly, executives ask: (1) What are the key strategic attributes driving B2B customer satisfaction? (2) Are the strategic attributes satisfaction balancing, satisfaction maintaining, or satisfaction enhancing based on the pattern of asymmetry? (3) Do the sign and magnitude of asymmetry vary across industry and customer subgroups? and (4) Is there a generalizable link between satisfaction and financial performance for B2B firms? Study 1 uses qualitative and secondary research to identify and validate eight strategic attributes pertinent to B2B companies: quality of product/service, pricing, safety, sales process, project management, corporate social responsibility, communication, and ongoing service and support. Study 2 examines industry-subgroup heterogeneity in the nature of asymmetry across industries, then links satisfaction with performance (i.e., sales). Study 3 finds customer-subgroup heterogeneity in the nature of asymmetry within the customer base of a B2B service provider, then links satisfaction with performance (i.e., dollar value of purchase).
Misunderstandings, mischaracterizations, and malicious accusations: A reply to Walby’s (2021) SWAT Everywhere?
Authors: Jenkins Bryce , Semple Tori , Bennell Craig , Huey Laura
Published: April 2021

To develop a more informed understanding of why tactical officers are used in Canada, we interviewed patrol and tactical officers from three Canadian police services (Jenkins et al., 2020). Interviewees indicated that tactical officers tend to be used on calls that go beyond the capabilities of patrol officers, including high-risk calls and calls unfolding in special environments, and that their use results in reduced threat to police and public safety. In response, Walby (2021) has argued that evidence-based policing (EBP) research of the sort we conducted is inherently biased. He also criticized our understanding of existing literature, took aim at our research methodology and conclusions, and questioned our academic integrity by claiming that we were paid by the participating police services to conduct the research. While Walby makes some valid criticisms of our research, his response is riddled with misunderstandings, mischaracterizations, and malicious (unfounded) accusations. After setting the record straight with respect to allegations regarding our nefarious motives to conduct the research, we argue that Walby completely misrepresents EBP research when he argues that it aims to support harmful police practices in exchange for financial support. We then correct numerous instances where Walby either mischaracterizes existing research or misrepresents our views (and those of our interviewees) when it comes to the use of tactical officers. We conclude by calling for more inclusive conversations to take place to address the issue of police militarization. These conversations must include community members, but they must also include the police.
Identifying medical mimics for late-life mania: A case of prion disease
Authors: Cadick Amber L , Ehresman Robert M , Jones Jonathan A
Published: April 2021

Sporadic Creutzfeld Jakob Disease is a rare disease with diagnostic challenges. While there is very little human data regarding this disease, some studies have indicated that certain medications may be useful in slowing its progression. Case study data implies psychiatric and cognitive symptoms preceding the diagnosis. This single case report presents a 68-year-old male with suspected late-onset bipolar disorder, later found to have sporadic Creutzfeld Jakob Disease. The patient was treated with lithium for this purported bipolar disorder. Approximately 2 years later, the patient met the Center for Disease Control (CDC) diagnostic criteria for prion disease following a rapid decline in cognition. This case provides an example of a medical mimic of bipolar disorder in the geriatric population.
Historically Remaining Issues: The Shanghai–Xinjiang Zhiqing Migration Program and the Tangled Legacies of the Mao Era in China, 1980–2017
Authors: Xu Bin
Published: April 2021

This article addresses social legacies or “historically remaining issues”—the impacts of Mao-era policies and practices on life courses, socioeconomic statuses, living conditions, and other aspects of social life in the post-Mao era. These social legacies involve state–society interactions on policy adjustments and symbolic practices and, therefore, are tangled up with other legacies, institutional and cultural, of the Mao years. This point is illustrated in a study of the Shanghai–Xinjiang zhiqing migration program of 1963–1966, in which about 97,000 Shanghai “ zhiqing” (educated youths) were mobilized to settle in the Xinjiang Construction and Production Corps. After petitions and protests in 1979–1980, some returned to Shanghai legally, but others returned to and remained in Shanghai without documents. This article discusses how Shanghai zhiqing returnees have been petitioning and protesting to pressure the state to solve problems relating to their hukou, pensions, and healthcare, and how the state responded with repression and incremental, ad hoc policy changes, which have caused repercussions and provoked grievances. State–society interactions over the social legacies of the Shanghai–Xinjiang migration program have been constrained by related institutional and cultural legacies, including the hukou system, the status of the Xinjiang Construction and Production Corps, the state’s positive historical assessment of the Shanghai–Xinjiang program, and the zhiqing’s pride in and confusion over their identities.
The concurrent and longitudinal relationship between narrative skills and other language skills in children
Authors: Karlsen Jannicke , Hjetland Hanne Næss , Hagtvet Bente Eriksen , Braeken Johan , Melby-Lervåg Monica
Published: April 2021

We examined the concurrent relationship between narrative skills (the Renfrew Bus Story Test) and core language measures (vocabulary, grammar and verbal memory) at age 4 and the longitudinal relationship between core language and listening comprehension skills at age 7 in a sample of 215 children using latent variables and structural equation modelling. Our main purpose was to investigate to what extent narrative retell constitutes a unique influence on later language and listening comprehension skills. The results support a two-factor model of narrative retelling and core language representing different but related constructs at age 4. Narrative retell explained unique variance in later language skills but did not explain additional variance beyond the 58% explained by the age 4 language construct. Similarly, narrative retell predicted unique variance in later listening comprehension, but not beyond what was explained by core language skills at age 4. The strength of the relationship between narrative retelling at age 4 and the age 7 measures was not related to the level of narrative skills. The results indicate that age 4 traditional core language measures capture more of the skills that are important for later language and listening comprehension than narrative skills at the same age.
Breaking the Chains: The Inverted-U-Shaped Relationship Between Action-State Orientation and Creativity Under Low Job Autonomy
Authors: Bledow Ronald , Kühnel Jana , Jin Mengzi , Kuhl Julius
Published: April 2021

When the social fabric of organizations limits individual autonomy, new ideas are needed that satisfy a person’s will as well as the constraints imposed by the social context. To explain when people achieve this synthesis and display creativity under low job autonomy, we examine the influence of their action-state orientation. The theory of action versus state orientation contrasts two responses people display when faced by a situation that conflicts with their will. An action-oriented response entails that people readily disengage from processing the situation and initiate goal-striving, while a state-oriented response entails that people remain focused on the situation. We argue that creativity under low job autonomy requires the integration of the competing processes underlying action and state orientation and is most frequently displayed by people in the midrange of the action-state orientation continuum. We test this theorizing with three studies. In a constrained laboratory setting, we induced a focus on an unwanted situation and demonstrated an inverted-U-shaped relationship between action-state orientation and creativity. A field study showed that the inverted-U-shaped relationship between action-state orientation and daily self-reports of creativity was strongest under low job autonomy and disappeared under high job autonomy. A multisource study replicated and extended these relationships using managerial ratings of creativity.
Toward a non-binary sense of mobility: insights from self-presentation in Instagram photography during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dou Gloria Yan
Published: April 2021

In this paper, I investigate how Instagrammers re-construct themselves as agentive and digitally mobile despite their physical immobility during the early COVID-19 pandemic. By examining four types of post that emerged or became popular during this period, I delineate how Instagrammers take subject positions to negotiate their (im)mobile selfhood in the online-offline nexus. I contend that as the Instagrammers negotiate their own invisibility and sociality during the lockdown, their physical bodies are reconfigured digitally as part of their multimodal self-presentation, troubling the traditional (im)mobile divide. While this study illuminates the democratic potential of Instagram, it also contemplates the extent of an individual’s agency on a global scale.
Urban Neighborhood Characteristics and the Spatial Distribution of Home and Community-Based Service Organizations in Michigan Metropolitan Statistical Areas
Authors: Kim Min Hee , Clarke Philippa J. , Dunkle Ruth E.
Published: April 2021

Living in a neighborhood with dense HCBS organizations can promote older adults’ health and well-being and may mitigate health disparities generated by living in materially deprived urban neighborhoods. Using 2016 US County Business Patterns and the American Community Survey (2013–2017), focused on 516 ZIP Codes in Michigan Metropolitan Statistical Areas, this study examines the association between neighborhood characteristics and the relative density of businesses offering services for older adults and persons with disabilities (e.g., senior centers, adult day service centers, personal care) and businesses offering home health care. Results from a series of spatial econometric models show that social care organization density tends to be high in neighborhoods with a greater number of residents who have a bachelor’s degree, who are older, and who are in poverty. Home health care density was not explained by neighborhood factors. Multiple neighborhood socio-demographic indicators explain the spatial distribution of social care organizations.
Policing a Pandemic: Understanding the State and Political Instrumentalization of the Coercive Apparatus in Duterte’s Philippines
Authors: Agojo Kevin Nielsen M.
Published: April 2021

As the world was mired in distress, some leaders saw opportunities to exploit the pandemic and further consolidate their grip on power. It is, thus, the objective of this article to discuss how, when, and why the state’s coercive apparatus has been instrumentalized by its leader amid a crisis. It will also explain how such apparatus has shaped both the aura of invincibility of the state and social order within the polity. The deployment of the Philippine National Police by President Rodrigo Duterte will be analyzed and discussed. The main argument of the article is that while the police has been given extensive powers to amplify the state’s power and assist in administrating a crisis-stricken society, they have also been instrumentalized to bolster an illiberal regime. In particular, the police were bestowed positions of authority within the state’s pandemic response apparatus, provided a broader leeway to wield violence through a contentious anti-terrorism law, and mobilized to unfairly enforce government-imposed measures. Thus, amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Duterte’s Philippines, civil liberties were violated, cultures of violence and impunity worsened, and the executive powers were consolidated.
Assessment of factors affecting short-term pulmonary functions following cardiac surgery: A prospective observational study
Authors: Katiyar Neetika , Negi Sandeep , Negi Sunder Lal , Puri Goverdhan Dutt , Thingnam Shyam Kumar Singh
Published: April 2021

Background

Pulmonary complications after cardiac surgery are very common and lead to an increased incidence of post-operative morbidity and mortality. Several factors, either modifiable or non-modifiable, may contribute to the associated unfavorable consequences related to pulmonary function. This study was aimed to investigate the degree of alteration and factors influencing pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity), on third, fifth, and seventh post-operative days following cardiac surgery.

Methods

This study was executed in 71 patients who underwent on-pump cardiac surgery. Pulmonary function was assessed before surgery and on the third, fifth, and seventh post-operative days. Data including surgical details, information about risk factors, and assessment of pulmonary function were obtained.

Results

The FEV1 and forced vital capacity were significantly impaired on post-operative days 3, 5, and 7 compared to pre-operative values. The reduction in FEV1 was 41%, 29%, and 16% and in forced vital capacity was 42%, 29%, and 19% consecutively on post-operative days 3, 5, and 7. Multivariate analysis was done to detect the factors influencing post-operative FEV1 and forced vital capacity.

Discussion

This study observed a significant impairment in FEV1 and forced vital capacity, which did not completely recover by the seventh post-operative day. Different factors affecting post-operative FEV1 and forced vital capacity were pre-operative FEV1, age ≥60, less body surface area, lower pre-operative chest expansion at the axillary level, and having more duration of cardiopulmonary bypass during surgery. Presence of these factors enhances the chance of developing post-operative pulmonary complications.
Election commissions and non-democratic outcomes: Thailand’s contentious 2019 election
Authors: Desatova Petra , Alexander Saowanee T
Published: April 2021

Responding to a recent call for more in-depth qualitative studies of electoral management bodies (EMBs), this article examines formally independent EMBs by using the example of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) and the role it played in the recent 2019 election. We argue that in non-democratic regimes with high levels of political polarisation and entrenched elites, formal EMB independence may become part of the problem why elections fail. It creates opportunities for long-term EMB capture by actors who wield power outside of formal politics and are unaccountable to public interest. In case of the ECT, this has led to the decreasing electoral standards culminating in the highly contentious 2019 election where the ECT’s administrative efficiency and effectiveness of voting came secondary to pleasing the entrenched old Thai elite. Its conduct has reduced Thailand’s prospects for a peaceful transition to democratic rule as those who oppose the country’s old elite have increasingly limited opportunities to challenge it through formal means.
Repartnering and trajectories of life satisfaction after separation and divorce in middle and later life
Authors: Gloor Sandra , Gonin-Spahni Stefanie , Znoj Hansjörg , Perrig-Chiello Pasqualina
Published: April 2021

Separation and divorce are life events that might alter life satisfaction on the long term. Previous literature suggests a recovery of life satisfaction after marital dissolution for most individuals, simultaneously emphasizing considerable heterogeneity in the extent and timing of such adaptation. A new partnership seems to be a promising factor for a positive post-separation adjustment process. At the same time, the question arises whether people with beneficial characteristics, such as higher trait resilience, may have a double advantage by recovering faster and being more likely to find a new partner. However, little research has concurrently investigated the consequences of repartnering and favorable personal attributes on life satisfaction of middle- and older-aged people, especially not beyond the initial recovery period. Our data stem from a three-wave longitudinal questionnaire study including 199 participants after a separation, all single at the beginning of the study. Latent growth modeling was applied to investigate trajectories of life satisfaction, examining the role of a new intimate partnership, while controlling for trait resilience. Trait resilience represented a strong general predictor for inter-individual differences in the initial level of life satisfaction. However, an increase in life satisfaction over time was only observed in the group of participants who engaged in a new partnership. This increase occurred independently of preexisting differences in beneficial characteristics, such as high levels of trait resilience or life satisfaction. Thus, repartnering is associated with improvement of life satisfaction beyond the first adaptation phase after separation and is therefore important to prevent long-term negative consequences.
Language acquisition in the digital age: L2 English input effects on children’s L1 Icelandic
Authors: Sigurjónsdóttir Sigríður , Nowenstein Iris
Published: April 2021

This article reviews prominent research on non-English-speaking children’s extramural acquisition of English through digital media, and examines the understudied scenario of possible effects of such second language (L2) English input on domestically dominant but globally small first languages (L1s), with Icelandic as the test case. We outline the main results of the children’s part of the Modeling the Linguistic Consequences of Digital Language Contact (MoLiCoDiLaCo) research project, which targeted 724 3–12-year-old Icelandic-speaking children. The focus is on English input and its relationship to the children’s Icelandic/English vocabulary and Icelandic grammar. Although a causal relationship between digital English and reduced/incompletely acquired Icelandic is often assumed in public discourse, our results do not show large-scale effects of L2 digital English on L1 Icelandic. English still seems to be a relatively small part of Icelandic children’s language environment, and although we find some indications of contact induced/reinforced language change, i.e. in the standard use of the subjunctive, as well as reduced MLU/NDW (mean length of utterance/number of different words) in the Icelandic language samples, we do not find pervasive effects of L2 English on L1 Icelandic. On the other hand, the results show contextual L2 learning of English by Icelandic-speaking children through mostly receptive digital input. Thus, the results imply that English digital language input contributes mainly to L2 English skills without adversely affecting L1 Icelandic.