bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Optimized Fingerprinting‐Based Indoor Positioning with Kalman Filter and Universal Kriging for 5G Internet of Things
Authors: Huang Shuai , Zhao Kun , Zheng Zhengqi , Ji Wenqing , Li Tianyi , Liao Xiaofei
Published: June 2021

Fingerprinting technique for indoor positioning based on 5G system has attracted attention. Kalman filter (KF) is used as preprocessing of raw data to reduce the disturbance of Received Signal Strength (RSS) values. After preprocessing, Universal Kriging (UK) algorithm is adopted to reduce the efforts of establishing a fingerprinting database by Spatial Interpolation. A machine learning algorithm named K‐Nearest Neighbour (KNN) is used to calculate user equipment’s position. Real experiments are setup with 5G signals over the air. Two indoor scenarios are considered depending whether the base station is located in the same room with user equipment or not. In test room A, the proposed KF and UK algorithms achieve 53% positioning accuracy improvement. In test room B, 43% performance improvement is obtained by the proposed algorithm. 1.44‐meter positioning error is observed as the best case for 80% test samples.
Intensity‐Modified Recreational Volleyball Training Improves Health Markers and Physical Fitness in 25–55‐Year‐Old Men
Authors: Vasić Goran , Trajković Nebojša , Mačak Draženka , Sattler Tine , Krustrup Peter , Starčević Nikola , Sporiš Goran , Bogataj Špela
Published: June 2021

The present study is aimed at determining the effects of intensity‐modified recreational volleyball training on health markers and physical fitness in healthy middle‐aged men. Thirty‐four healthy untrained men aged 25–55 years were randomized to either a modified recreational volleyball group (MRV, n = 17) or a recreational volleyball group (RV, n = 17). Both groups performed volleyball training twice a week over 12 weeks, with participants in MRV playing a modified game with higher intensity due to shorter breaks between rallies. The small to moderate improvements of both groups were observed in SBP (MRV gav = −0.50 [‐0.67, ‐0.33] vs. RV gav = −0.37 [‐0.55, ‐0.20]) to a similar extent (p = 0.12). However, only the MRV significantly improved (p < 0.001) the mean body weight (gav = −0.35 [‐0.52, ‐0.18]) and BMI (gav = −0.39 [‐0.56, ‐0.22]) to a moderate extent and the YYIR1 performance (gav = 2.45 [2.22, 2.69]) to a large extent. Even though both groups significantly improved the rest HR, the mean change of rest HR was significantly greater in MRV as compared to the RV (p < 0.001, ). The study revealed that an intensity‐modified type of recreational volleyball, involving shorter breaks between rallies, improves cardiorespiratory fitness and health markers for men aged 25–55 years.
Optimal State Risk Scheduling Based on Selective Maintenance Strategy
Authors: Ji Xingquan , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Yumin , Han Xueshan , Yin Ziyang , Wang Wei
Published: June 2021

Because stochastic fault cases (i.e., opportunistic maintenance strategy) of the equipment are not considered in the condition-based maintenance decision of the system, which will deviate from the actual situation, a system condition-based maintenance scheduling model considering opportunistic maintenance strategy is proposed in this paper. To implement the system maintenance strategies, the correlation set is formulated by considering the relationship among different equipment. According to renewal process theory, the availability of the correlation set considering planned maintenance and opportunity maintenance is deduced and the maintenance strategy of the system is realized. Then, to reflect the relationship between equipment maintenance and system operation, a system state scheduling model aiming at minimizing the sum of maintenance risk and failure risk as well as considering system resource constraints is proposed, thus obtaining the optimal maintenance schedule based on system state. Finally, a simple test system and IEEE-RTS79 node system are employed to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed maintenance model, and it also verified that the proposed model can be integrated into the power system condition-based maintenance theory.
Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) Attenuates Serum Uric Acid (SUA) Level in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hussain Mazhar , Elahi Asim , Hussain Abid , Iqbal Javed , Akhtar Lubna , Majid Abdul
Published: June 2021

Background. Hyperuricemia has a strong association with diabetes mellitus. Hyperuricemia can lead to cardiovascular and renal complications in patients with diabetes. The goal of this study was to compare the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors dapagliflozin and empagliflozin on serum uric acid (SUA) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes against traditional oral antihyperglycemic drugs (OADs). Methods. In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, 70 patients with type 2 diabetes and elevated SUA levels were assigned to two treatment groups. Patients in group A received SGLT-2 inhibitors tablet dapagliflozin 5 mg to 10 mg and empagliflozin 10 mg to 25 mg. Group B patients received OADs such as glimepiride, metformin, sitagliptin, gliclazide, and glibenclamide as monotherapy or combination therapy. The changes in SUA level were primary end points while changes in body weight and body mass index (BMI) from baseline to end point were secondary end points. Results. After four weeks of treatment, we noted a significant reduction of mean SUA levels in the SGLT-2 inhibitor group from7.5±2.5to6.3±0.8 mg/dl versus comparator group from7.1±1.8to6.8±2.2 mg/dl (p=0.001). Mean body weight was significantly reduced in the SGLT-2 group from82±10.4to78±12.5 kg versus comparator group from78±13.2to79.2±9.7 kg (p=0.001). Similarly, the mean BMI of patients in the SGLT-2 group was significantly reduced from25.7±3.2to24.2±3.2 kg/m2 versus comparator group from27.5±4.2to28±3.6 kg/m2 (p=0.002). Conclusion. SGLT-2 inhibitors have a strong potential to decrease SUA levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Online Prediction Method of Molten Aluminium Height in Electrolytic Cell Based on Extreme Learning Machine with Kernel Function
Authors: Cao Bin , Cui Jiarui , Li Qing , Wang Minggang , Li Xiangquan , Yan Qun
Published: June 2021

An online prediction method of molten aluminium height is proposed based on extreme learning machine with kernel function (K-ELM). Firstly, relevant variables that can be measured online related to aluminium liquid fluctuations were obtained by analyzing the mechanism model of aluminium liquid fluctuations. Then, the online prediction method of molten aluminium height is proposed based on kernel function and ELM, which just use the anode-cathode voltage and the anode rod current data. Finally, the data collection and experiment of 3 sets of anode rods in the 200 kA series aluminium electrolytic cells are carried out on-site. The results show that the maximum absolute error is only 0.25 cm and relative error is less than 1.4%, which satisfied the production site requirements. Compared with existing methods, it has certain advantages in real-time and prediction accuracy and meets the real-time and accuracy requirements of the actual production process on-site.
Applications of the Small and Medium Enterprise Management System Using the Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Lv Xuejing
Published: June 2021

The traditional small and medium enterprise management system has a low efficiency of operation and management. A small and medium enterprise management system based on a clustering algorithm is designed in this paper to address this problem. In the proposed algorithm, the management system architecture is planned. The overall framework of the management system is designed based on the architecture theory. The management module is set up to realize the design of the management system. The system operation data management storage mode is set up to shorten the staff management and execution process. A multiunit management module is used to realize the management, operation, and propaganda management of enterprise expenditure. The effectiveness of the designed system is tested using simulation-based experiments to simulate the management and operation mode of the medium- and small-sized enterprise. Experimental results show that the efficiency of the designed management system is about 34% higher than that of the traditional management method, and the operation is stable.
Maximum Reciprocal Degree Resistance Distance Index of Bicyclic Graphs
Authors: Cai Gaixiang , Li Xing-Xing , Yu Guidong
Published: June 2021

The reciprocal degree resistance distance index of a connected graph

G

is defined as

RDR

G

=

∑

u
,
v

⊆
V

G

d

G

u

+

d

G

v

/

r

G

u
,
v

, where

r

G

u
,
v

is the resistance distance between vertices

u

and

v

in

G

. Let

ℬ

n

denote the set of bicyclic graphs without common edges and with

n

vertices. We study the graph with the maximum reciprocal degree resistance distance index among all graphs in

ℬ

n

and characterize the corresponding extremal graph.
Vascular Calcification as a Novel Risk Factor for Kidney Function Deterioration in the Nonelderly
Authors: Park Samel , Cho Nam‐Jun , Heo Nam Hun , Rhee Eun‐Jung , Gil Hyowook , Lee Eun Young
Published: June 2021

Background

The relationship between vascular calcification and chronic kidney disease is well known. However, whether vascular calcification affects renal function deterioration remains unclear. We investigated whether kidney function deteriorated more rapidly in individuals with higher vascular calcification indicated by the coronary artery calcium score (CACS).

Methods and Results

Individuals with a normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (>60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
) who underwent cardiac computed tomography in our institution (a tertiary teaching hospital in Cheonan, Korea) from January 2010 to July 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. All participants were aged 20 to 65 years. Among 739 patients, 447, 175, and 117 had CACSs of 0, 1 to 99, and ≥100 units, respectively. The participants were followed for 7.8 (interquartile range, 5.5–8.8) years. The adjusted annual estimated glomerular filtration rates declined more rapidly in patients in the CACS ≥100 group compared with those in the CACS 0 group (adjusted‐β, −0.40; 95% CI, −0.80 to −0.03) when estimated using a linear mixed model. The adjusted hazard ratio in the CACS ≥100 group for Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes criteria (a drop in estimated glomerular filtration rate category accompanied by a 25% or greater drop in estimated glomerular filtration rate) was 2.52 (1.13–5.61). After propensity score matching, more prevalent renal outcomes (13.2%) were observed in patients with a CACS of ≥100 compared with those with a CACS of 0 (1.9%), with statistical significance (
P
=0.004).

Conclusions

Our results showed that renal function declined more rapidly in patients with higher CACSs, suggesting that vascular calcification might be associated with chronic kidney disease progression.
Postoperative Myocardial Injury in Patients Classified as Low Risk Preoperatively Is Associated With a Particularly Increased Risk of Long‐Term Mortality After Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Vasireddi Sunil K. , Pivato Erica , Soltero‐Mariscal Enrique , Chava Raghuram , James Laurence O. , Gunzler Douglas , Leo Peter , Kondapaneni Meera D.
Published: June 2021

Background

Prior studies have shown an association between myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS) and all‐cause mortality in patients following noncardiac surgery. However, the association between preoperative risk assessments, Revised Cardiac Risk Index and American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, and postoperative troponin elevations and long‐term mortality is unknown.

Methods and Results

A retrospective chart review identified 548 patients who had a troponin I level drawn within 14 days of noncardiac surgery that required an overnight hospital stay. Patients aged 40 to 80 years with at least 2 cardiovascular risk factors were included, while those with trauma, pulmonary embolism, and neurosurgery were excluded. Kaplan–Meier survival and odds ratio (OR) with sensitivity/specificity analysis were performed to assess the association between preoperative risk and postoperative troponin elevation and all‐cause mortality at 1 year. Overall, 69%/31% were classified as low‐risk/high‐risk per the Revised Cardiac Risk Index and 66%/34% per American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Comparing the low‐risk versus high‐risk groups, preoperative risk assessment was not associated with either postoperative troponin elevation or 1‐year mortality. MINS portended a 1‐year mortality of OR, 3.9 (95% CI, 2.44–6.33) in the total population. Patients classified as low risk preoperatively with MINS had the highest risk of 1‐year mortality (OR, 9.6; 95% CI, 4.27–24.38), with a low prevalence of statin use.

Conclusions

Current preoperative risk stratification tools do not prognosticate the risk of postoperative troponin elevation and all‐cause mortality at 1 year. Interestingly, patients classified as low risk preoperatively with MINS had a markedly higher 1‐year mortality risk compared with the general population, and most of them are not taking a statin. Our results suggest that evaluating preoperatively low‐risk patients for MINS presents an opportunity for prognostication, risk reclassification, and initiating therapies such as statins to mitigate long‐term risk.
Compliance in Primary Prevention With Statins and Associations With Cardiovascular Risk and Death in a Low‐Risk Population With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Malmborg Morten , Schmiegelow Michelle D. S. , Gerds Thomas , Schou Morten , Kistorp Caroline , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Gislason Gunnar
Published: June 2021

Background

We examined whether primary prevention with statins and high adherence to statins reduce the associated risk of cardiovascular events or death in a low‐risk population with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

Methods and Results

Using Danish nationwide registers, we included patients with new‐onset T2D, aged 40 to 89 years, between 2005 and 2011, who were alive 18 months following the T2D diagnosis (index date). In patients who purchased statins within 6 months following T2D diagnosis, we calculated the proportion of days covered (PDC) within 1 year after the initial 6‐month period. We studied the combined end point of myocardial infarction, stroke, or all‐cause mortality, whichever came first, with Cox regression. Reported were standardized 5‐year risk differences for fixed comorbidity distribution according to statin treatment history, stratified by sex and age. Among 77 170 patients, 42 975 (56%) were treated with statins, of whom 31 061 (72%) had a PDC ≥80%. In men aged 70 to 79 years who were treated with statins, the standardized 5‐year risk was 22.9% (95% CI, 21.5%–24.3%), whereas the risk was 29.1% (95% CI, 27.4%–30.7%) in men not treated, resulting in a significant risk reduction of 6.2% (95% CI, 4.0%–8.4%),
P
<0.0001. The risk reduction associated with statins increased with advancing age group (women: age 40–49 years, 0.0% [95% CI, −1.0% to 1.0%]; age 80–89 years, 10.8% [95% CI, 7.2%–14.4%]). Standardizing to all patients treated with statins, PDC <80% was associated with increased risk difference (reference PDC ≥80%; PDC <20%, 4.2% [95% CI, 2.9%–5.6%]).

Conclusions

This study supports the use of statins as primary prevention against cardiovascular diseases or death in 18‐month surviving low‐risk patients with T2D, with the highest effect in the elderly and adherent patients.
Functional Assessment of Myocardial Bridging With Conventional and Diastolic Fractional Flow Reserve: Vasodilator Versus Inotropic Provocation
Authors: Aleksandric Srdjan B. , Djordjevic‐Dikic Ana D. , Dobric Milan R. , Giga Vojislav L. , Soldatovic Ivan A. , Vukcevic Vladan , Tomasevic Miloje V. , Stojkovic Sinisa M. , Orlic Dejan N. , Saponjski Jovica D. , Tesic Milorad B. , Banovic Marko D. , Petrovic Marija T. , Juricic Stefan A. , Nedeljkovic Milan A. , Stankovic Goran , Ostojic Miodrag C. , Beleslin Branko D.
Published: June 2021

Background

Functional assessment of myocardial bridging (MB) remains clinically challenging because of the dynamic nature of the extravascular coronary compression with a certain degree of intraluminal coronary reduction. The aim of our study was to assess performance and diagnostic value of diastolic‐fractional flow reserve (d‐FFR) during dobutamine provocation versus conventional‐FFR during adenosine provocation with exercise‐induced myocardial ischemia as reference.

Methods and Results

This prospective study includes 60 symptomatic patients (45 men, mean age 57±9 years) with MB on the left anterior descending artery and systolic compression ≥50% diameter stenosis. Patients were evaluated by exercise stress‐echocardiography test, and both conventional‐FFR and d‐FFR in the distal segment of left anterior descending artery during intravenous infusion of adenosine (140 μg/kg per minute) and dobutamine (10–50 μg/kg per minute), separately. Exercise–stress‐echocardiography test was positive for myocardial ischemia in 19/60 patients (32%). Conventional‐FFR during adenosine and peak dobutamine had similar values (0.84±0.04 versus 0.84±0.06,
P
=0.852), but d‐FFR during peak dobutamine was significantly lower than d‐FFR during adenosine (0.76±0.08 versus 0.79±0.08,
P
=0.018). Diastolic‐FFR during peak dobutamine was significantly lower in the exercise‐stress‐echocardiography test –positive group compared with the exercise‐ stress‐echocardiography test –negative group (0.70±0.07 versus 0.79±0.06,
P
<0.001), but not during adenosine (0.79±0.07 versus 0.78±0.09,
P
=0.613). Among physiological indices, d‐FFR during peak dobutamine was the only independent predictor of functionally significant MB (odds ratio, 0.870; 95% CI, 0.767–0.986,
P
=0.03). Receiver‐operating characteristics curve analysis identifies the optimal d‐FFR during peak dobutamine cut‐off ≤0.76 (area under curve, 0.927; 95% CI, 0.833–1.000;
P
<0.001) with a sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value of 95%, 95%, 90%, and 98%, respectively, for identifying MB associated with stress‐induced ischemia.

Conclusions

Diastolic‐FFR, but not conventional‐FFR, during inotropic stimulation with high‐dose dobutamine, in comparison to vasodilatation with adenosine, provides more reliable functional significance of MB in relation to stress‐induced myocardial ischemia.
The Mind as Container
Authors: Marcinkowska-Rosół Maria , Sellmer Sven
Published: June 2021

One of the most widespread and natural ways of conceiving of the human mind in European culture is the image of the mind as a container for thoughts, images, memories, reasonings, etc. In this article, we explore the evidence of this metaphor in the Ancient Greek epic poems, Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey as well as Hesiod’s Theogony and Works and Days, and, for comparative purposes, the evidence of the analogous metaphor in the Ancient Indian epics, the Mahābhārata and the Rāmāyaṇa. We examine how the metaphor is used, what its functions are and what it implies for the conception of mind in both ancient traditions. Additionally, we offer a brief comparison with the image of the mind-container that emerges from the use of this metaphor in modern English.
Natural Disasters in Medieval Greek Apocalypses
Authors: Kraft András
Published: June 2021

Natural calamities form a standard theme in Byzantine apocalypses. This paper discusses their function and meaning by surveying more than a dozen medieval Greek apocalyptic narratives from the sixth to the fifteenth century. It is shown that natural disasters were understood as ambiguous epiphenomena, whose ultimate meaning revolved around human agency and intentionality. Furthermore, it is argued that Byzantine apocalypses offered an intellectual strategy for coping with natural calamities by placing them into an eschatological context. This eschatologization restored epistemological control of the – seemingly uncontrollable – phenomena. Finally, it is suggested that the understanding of natural disasters as anthropogenic events is not only characteristic of medieval Greek apocalypticism but also of modern-day environmental alarmism. The paper closes with a preliminary comparison of these two hermeneutic paradigms.
The Religious Market Theory and Religious Change in the United States and China
Authors: Yang Fenggang
Published: June 2021

In this combined interview, Rodney Stark and Roger Finke share their thoughts on the development of the religious market theory, religious change in the United States, and Christian growth in China. The interview with Rodney Stark was conducted by telephone in late December 2020 and the interview with Roger Finke by email in early January 2021.
The Problem of Power in Confucian Political Thought
Authors: Crane Sam
Published: June 2021

In this brief reflection on Shaun O’Dwyer’s book, Confucianism’s Prospects, I accept his central arguments regarding the implausibility of “Confucian democracy,” and I suggest a further reason for the inapplicability of Confucianism as a perfectionist doctrine for modern pluralistic East Asian societies. Beyond the elitist paternalism that is the focus of O’Dwyer’s analysis, I suggest that Confucianism’s theory of power, as illustrated by reference to the Mencius and the Analects, is insufficient to the task of constituting and reproducing modern democratic practice. Thus, for democracy to develop in East Asia, it must be grounded in liberalism.
Medicolegal Considerations Regarding Steroid Use in Otolaryngology: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Young Kurtis , Koshi Elliott J. , Mostales Joshua C. , Saha Bibek , Burgess Lawrence P.
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To review the literature on corticosteroid use and provide recommendations on patient counseling and/or consent to promote judicious prescribing and reduce the incidence of corticosteroid-related lawsuits.

Method:

A conventional literature search of PubMed on corticosteroid-related medicolegal cases was undertaken. Search terms included “medicolegal,” “otolaryngology,” and “adrenocorticosteroids.” A medical subjects headings search with the keywords “adrenal cortex hormones” and “jurisprudence” was also performed.

Results:

Corticosteroids have been reported as the third most frequent medication involved in malpractice claims, oftentimes leading to disproportionately costly payments. The most common specialties found to be involved in corticosteroid related medicolegal cases included dermatology (12%), primary care (10%), and neurologists or neurosurgeons (6%). The most common complications encountered were avascular necrosis (39%), changes in mood (16%), infection (14%), and vision changes (14%). Only a few cases corticosteroid-related litigation regarding otolaryngologists were identified. More frequent causes for otolaryngology claims were intraoperative complications, deficits in diagnoses, and failures or delays in treatment. Three medicolegal pitfalls regarding corticosteroid use were identified from this review included: (1) insufficient advising, (2) lack of or incomplete informed consent, and (3) the significance of the patient-physician relationship.

Conclusion:

Despite the scarcity of corticosteroid-related medicolegal literature pertaining to otolaryngologists, corticosteroids are one of the most widely prescribed medications in the field of otolaryngology and have been shown to have a high rate of medical malpractice claims in medicine. Counseling and consenting the patient, as well as developing a strong physician-patient relationship, are integral processes in addressing any adverse effects occurring during therapy, and may also help to decrease the incidence and success of litigation against otolaryngologists.
Negotiating Political Power at ‘Critical Junctures’: Women and Constitution Drafting in South Africa and India
Authors: Mohanan Nila
Published: June 2021

From a feminist institutionalist perspective, this article engages in a comparative analysis of South Africa, one of the only post-transition democracies where women organized as a distinct interest group representing gender interests were able to negotiate and gain access to political power, and India, where women’s participation was predominantly as ‘nationalist women’. It argues that constitution drafting is a decisive critical juncture when descriptive representation can be translated very effectively into the substantive representation of women as equal citizens, provided women qua women and as gender-conscious agents are able to intervene to promote the cause of their effective political participation.
The Primacy of Beauty in Music, Visual Arts and Literature: Not Just a Replication Study in the Greek Language Exploring the Effects of Verbal Fluency, Age and Gender
Authors: Giannouli Vaitsa , Yordanova Juliana , Kolev Vasil
Published: June 2021

Research on aesthetic descriptors of art in different languages is scarce. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the conceptual structure of aesthetic experiences of three forms of art (music, visual arts and literature) in the Greek language, which has not been explored so far. It was further aimed to study if biological and cognitive factors such as age and gender might produce differences in art appreciation. A total of 467 younger and older individuals from Greece were asked to generate verbal descriptors (adjectives) in free word-listing conditions in order to collect terms reflecting the aesthetics-related semantic field of art. The capacity of verbal memory was controlled by using a battery of neuropsychological tests. Analysis of generated adjectives’ frequency and salience revealed that ‘beautiful’ was the most prominent descriptor that was selected with a distinctive primacy for all three forms of arts. The primacy of ‘beautiful’ was significantly more pronounced for visual arts relative to music and literature. Although the aging-related decline of verbal capacity was similar for males and females, the primacy of ‘beautiful’ depended on age and gender by being more emphasized for young females than males, and for old males than females. Analysis of secondary descriptors and pairs of adjectives revealed that affective and hedonic experiences are essentially fixed in the semantic field of art reflection. It is concluded that although the concept of the aesthetics seems to be diversified and rich, a clear primacy of beauty is found for the Greek cultural environment and across different forms of art. The results also highlight the presence of complex influences of biological and cognitive factors on aesthetic art experiences.
Transnational Education in the Anglophone University: A Viewpoint Article
Authors: Dewey Martin
Published: June 2021

This viewpoint article provides a critical reflection on the gatekeeping and academic language practices of Anglophone universities, evaluating these in light of the promotional claims universities make about internationalization and global reach. I then consider the arguments put forward in each of the main articles in this special issue from this critical perspective, connecting the authors’ accounts of EMI practices in transnational higher education contexts with the language requirements and practices of the Anglophone university. I argue that there is considerable overlap between the concerns of stakeholders in EMI settings and those of international students and academics in Anglophone universities in a UK setting. I find that the English language requirements for admissions as well as orientations to academic language in higher education curricula can in EMI settings and ‘international’ Anglophone universities alike be underpinned by language ideological positions that do not reflect an especially global outlook, and that remain in many senses tethered to ‘native’ language and ‘native’ academic discourse norms.
Sufis and the Sufi Lodges in Istanbul in the Late Nineteenth Century: A Socio-Spatial Analysis
Authors: Yüksek Ahmet Yusuf
Published: June 2021

This study investigates the socio-spatial history of Sufism in Istanbul during 1880s. Drawing on a unique population registry, it reconstructs the locations of Sufi lodges and the social profiles of Sufis to question how visible Sufism was in the Ottoman capital, and what this visibility demonstrates the historical realities of Sufism. It claims that Sufism was an integral part of the Ottoman life since Sufi lodges were space of religion and spirituality, art, housing, and health. Despite their large presence in Istanbul, Sufi lodges were extensively missing in two main areas: the districts of Unkapanı-Bayezid and Galata-Pera. While the lack of lodgess in the latter area can be explained by the Western encroachment in the Ottoman capital, the explanation for the absence of Sufis in Unkapanı-Bayezid is more complex: natural disasters, two opposing views about Sufi sociability, and the locations of the central lodges.
Does Respect Foster Tolerance? (Re)analyzing and Synthesizing Data From a Large Research Project Using Meta-Analytic Techniques
Authors: Zitzmann Steffen , Loreth Lukas , Reininger Klaus Michael , Simon Bernd
Published: June 2021

Our own prior research has demonstrated that respect for disapproved others predicts and might foster tolerance toward them. This means that without giving up their disapproval of others’ way of life, people can tolerate others when they respect them as equals (outgroup respect–tolerance hypothesis). Still, there was considerable variation in the study features. Moreover, the studies are part of a larger research project that affords many additional tests of our hypothesis. To achieve integration along with a more robust understanding of the relation between respect and tolerance, we (re)analyzed all existing data from this project, and we synthesized the results with the help of meta-analytic techniques. The average standardized regression coefficient, which describes the relationship between respect and tolerance, was 0.25 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.16, 0.34]). In addition to this overall confirmation of our hypothesis, the size of this coefficient varied with a number of variables. It was larger for numerical majorities than for minorities, smaller for high-status than for low-status groups, and larger for religious than for life-style groups. These findings should inspire further theory development and spur growth in the social-psychological literature on tolerance.
Looking for Medical Advice in Everyday Digital Spaces: A Qualitative Study of Indians Connecting with Physicians on Facebook
Authors: Mishra Smeeta
Published: June 2021

In a world afflicted by COVID-19, many people consult doctors through a digital interface or over the phone, as face-to-face consultations are almost impossible during a lockdown. The Medical Council of India and the NITI Aayog, a policy think tank, formulated new guidelines to empower medical practitioners to practice telemedicine in India in March 2020. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the world and made digital consultations a necessity in specific cases, academic studies located within a health promotion framework in Western contexts indicated that patients have been very much interested in using social media tools to communicate with their physicians. Previous studies have also highlighted the advantages of information and communication technologies for patient–doctor interaction.

Since changes introduced by digital health technologies have primarily been analysed from such health promotion perspectives that often adopt a ‘techno-utopian’ lens ( Lupton, 2013 ), it becomes imperative to critically interrogate how such changes construct specific subjectivities and shape our understandings of health and normative healthcare practices. Specifically, scholars have highlighted how social media platforms and apps act as ‘performative devices’ ( Johnson, 2014 ) that influence ‘everyday management of illness and health’ and help create the ideal of the ‘digitally engaged patient’ ( Lupton, 2013 ).

In the Indian context, media reports highlight a growing trend in the use of social media platforms and apps by physicians and patients. However, academic research on such emerging phenomena in this country is still scarce. This exploratory study examines why some Indians connect with physicians on a social media platform such as Facebook, the nature of communication between them and their understandings of health. It uses in-depth interviews and draws upon neoliberal governmentality as a theoretical anchor.

The findings show how the internalization of neoliberal values and assumptions are associated with participants’ search for lifestyle and medical advice in everyday digital spaces such as Facebook. This study strives to extend the concept of neoliberal governmentality to performances in everyday digital spaces such as Facebook. In terms of practical implications, the results of the study highlight the critical need for policies that regulate the medical content available in social media spaces. Most importantly, some of the issues highlighted by the participants in this study can help policymakers take adequate precautions while formulating guidelines on digital consultations, especially during pandemics and their aftermath when there is tremendous pressure to promote telemedicine.
Personality Traits Leads to Investor’s Financial Risk Tolerance: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach
Authors: Rai Kamini , Gupta Abha , Tyagi Anshu
Published: June 2021

In today’s scenario, investors’ preferences towards different investment avenues depend upon their risk tolerance level and return associated with investment plan. The tolerance level of investors for risk is influenced by many demographic and psychological factors. Personality traits (PTs) are one of the important factors that impact the tolerance levels of investors for risk. Thus, the existing study focuses on whether (a) the direct effect of Big Five PTs on financial risk tolerance (FRT) or (b) PTs as a second-order (higher-order) factor leads to FRT. Data are cross-sectional in nature, which were collected from 599 investors who invested through Angel Broking Co. (Securities co.) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) by using online structured questionnaire. To examine the strength of the relationship between variables’ correlation and regression tests were applied using the structural equation modelling approach. The study found that among Big Five personality dimensions, only agreeableness, conscientiousness and openness are significantly associated with FRT, whereas PTs as a second-order (higher-order) factor have a strong association with FRT of investors. Thus, the PT as a second order is the preferred model.

JEL Code: G02
Psychological ownership development in new venture teams
Authors: Yttermyr Olga , Wennberg Karl
Published: June 2021

Psychological ownership (PO) is important for organisational climate and outcomes, yet, little is known about collective forms of PO in emerging entrepreneurial teams. Based on an in-depth study of a new venture team over three years, we sketch a process model of collective PO development. While studies on individual PO in established organisations highlight individual needs in triggering processes of PO development, our study indicates the importance of temporal, role-based, and input-based alignment of interpersonal processes for the emergence of collective PO in new venture teams. We discuss insights for research on new venture teams and research on small groups.
Adverse Childhood Events and Substance Misuse in Men Who Perpetrated Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Rivas-Rivero Esther , Bonilla-Algovia Enrique
Published: June 2021

Adverse childhood events related to violence suffered have developmental consequences such as the reproduction of such violence in intimate relationships and substance misuse in the later life trajectory. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between suffering adverse childhood events and excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs in 120 men, with a mean age of 40.51 years ( SD = 11.06), who have abused women in a relationship. The results indicate that those who suffered abuse in childhood and other adverse childhood events in the family of origin consumed alcohol and drugs in excess. Furthermore, the regression models show that alcohol consumption is related to previous substance use by parents, while drug use is related to leaving home due to family conflicts. Also, the consumption of alcohol and other substances is likewise associated with consumption by parents and conflicts within the family. The size of the effect of the relationship increases when different forms of poly-victimization coexist. Conflict treatment is necessary in any setting, especially when it takes place in the family environment and at an early age, to avoid the transmission of maladaptive behaviors associated with substance misuse and violence.
Hub height optimisation of commercial WTGs based on accurate wind resource analysis
Authors: Roberts Kyle O , Mahomed Nawaz
Published: June 2021

Wind turbine selection and optimal hub height positioning are crucial elements of wind power projects. However, in higher class wind speeds especially, over-exposure of wind turbines can lead to a reduction in power generation capacity. In this study, wind measurements from a met mast were validated according to specifications issued by IRENA and NREL. As a first step, it is shown that commercial WTGs from a database may be matched to the wind class and turbulence intensity. Secondly, a wind turbine selection algorithm, based on maximisation of capacity factor, was implemented across the range of WTGs. The selected WTGs were further exposed to an iterative algorithm using pointwise air density and wind shear coefficients. It is shown that a unique maximum capacity factor, and hence wind power generation, exists for a wind turbine, premised on its eventual over-exposure to the wind resource above a certain hub height.
Validation of a lightning protection system for a fusion-welded thermoplastic composite wind turbine blade tip
Authors: Murray Robynne E , Plumer Andy , Beach Ryan , Broome Peter
Published: June 2021

Fusion welding for thermoplastic composite wind turbine blades is being investigated as a replacement for adhesives in bond lines to reduce manufacturing time and cost and to promote ease of recyclability. Resistance welding uses an electrically conductive material, such as carbon fiber, embedded in the bond line to heat the joining surfaces and fuse them together under pressure. One main challenge with fusion joining for large wind blades is the ability to use this conductive heating element in the bond line while still protecting the blade from the catastrophic effects of a lightning strike. This paper outlines the design and manufacturing of a lightning protection system for a 5-m-long thermally welded blade tip. The outcomes of high voltage and high current lightning testing applied to the 5 m blade tip show that the proposed design was able to protect the fusion welded bond lines from significant lightning damage.
Understanding the Motives for Terrorism—Does it Have an Effect on Psychological Reactions? A Replication and Extension
Authors: Leder Johannes , Schlegel Ronja , Schütz Astrid
Published: June 2021

The collective communication model of terrorism (CCMT) proposes that understanding terrorists’ motives influences appraisal (threat perception and emotional well-being) and reaction to terrorism (intention to retaliate). Fischer et al. (2011) presented evidence from two experiments for the assumption that understanding motives of terrorism influences appraisal. The present preregistered experiment aimed to replicate their second experiment, validate the measures they used, and also test the second proposition of the CCMT. Ensuring sufficient power for multiple tests and the given effect size, we collected data from 188 participants. The findings by Fischer et al. (2011) were partly replicated, but the comparison of the original effect sizes and the effect sizes from the replication attempt does not provide convincing evidence for the hypothesis that understanding the motives for terrorism reduces the perceived threat or negative emotional impact of acts of terrorism. Correlations with other risk-perception measures call into question the validity of the items used to assess perceived threat. Results suggest that understanding the motives for terrorism may influence whether the targeted populations want to retaliate.
Regularity of contact with general practitioners and diabetes-related hospitalisation through a period of policy change: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Youens David , Preen David B , Harris Mark , Wright Cameron , Moorin Rachael
Published: June 2021

Background

This study evaluated changes in regularity of general practitioner (GP) contact (the pattern of visits over time) and the impact of regularity on diabetes-related hospitalisation following introduction of care co-ordination incentives.

Methods

Linked primary care, hospital and death records covered West Australian adults from 1991–2004. Different eras were evaluated based on incentive program changes and model fit, to assess changes in regularity. Changes in regularity, derived from the variance in the number of days between GP contacts, were evaluated using ordered logistic regression. The impact of regularity on hospitalisation rates and costs were evaluated.

Results

Two eras prior to program introduction (1991/92–1994/9 and 1995/96–1998/99), and one after (1999/2000–2002/03) were assessed. Among 153,455 at risk of diabetes-related hospitalisation GP contact became slightly less regular in the second era, though there was no change from the second to third era. The most regular decile had 5.5% fewer hospitalisations (95% CI -0.9% to -9.9%) and lower per-patient costs (difference AU$115, CI -$63 to -$167) than the least regular. Associations were similar in each era.

Conclusions

Ongoing relationships between GPs and patients are important to maintaining health. Historical data provide the opportunity to assess the impact of care co-ordination incentives on relationships.
“Here comes Bio-me”: An analysis of a biobank campaign targeted at children
Authors: Snell Karoliina , Tarkkala Heta
Published: June 2021

Finnish biobanks have started to recruit children. The national supervising authority has emphasized the centrality of providing children with age-appropriate information. We analyzed one such campaign. We argue that by simplifying the complex socio-technical arrangements of biobanking with the introduction of a new metaphor-like concept, “Bio-me,” the campaign presents a misleading and reductionist picture of data-driven biomedicine and biobank participation. First, the Bio-me character seems to bear similarities to the seventeenth-century explanations of embryological development. Second, the focus in the campaign is on biological material while crucial connections to different sorts of data are ignored. Third, we point to the absence of verbal references to genes and DNA, although the prevailing visualization comprises the double helix. We argue that the campaign has potential to contribute to public misunderstanding of science by introducing a new term that has little connection to actual biology or scientific practices it tries to promote.
Incidence and Risk Factors Associated with Infection after Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy for Relapsed/Refractory B-cell Malignancies
Authors: Zhu Feng , Wei Guoqing , Liu Yandan , Zhou Houli , Wu Wenjun , Yang Luxin , Huang He , Hu Yongxian
Published: June 2021

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-Ts) constitute a novel therapeutic strategy for relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies. With the extensive application of CAR-T therapy in clinical settings, CAR-T-associated toxicities have become increasingly apparent. However, information regarding the associated infections is limited. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of infection during CAR-T therapy and identify the potential risk factors. Especially, we evaluated infections and the associated risk factors in 92 patients. The cohort included patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia ( n = 58) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma ( n = 34). Fifteen cases of infection (predominantly bacterial) were observed within 28 days of CAR-T therapy, with an infection density of 0.5 infections for every 100 days-at-risk. Neutropenia before CAR-T therapy ( P = .005) and prior infection ( P = .046) were independent risk factors associated with infection within 28 days after CAR-T therapy; corticosteroid treatment during cytokine release syndrome ( P = .013) was an independent risk factor during days 29–180 after CAR-T infusions. Moreover, the 2-year survival duration was significantly shorter in patients with infections than in those without (126 vs 409 days; P = .006). Our results suggested that effective anti-infection therapies may improve prognosis of patients who have a high infection risk. The risk of bacterial infections during the early stages of CAR-T therapy and the subsequent risk of viral infections thereafter should be considered to provide the appropriate treatment and improve patient prognosis.
Musical communities in the society of captives: Exploring the impact of music making on the social world of prison
Authors: Doxat-Pratt Sarah
Published: June 2021

This article examines the ways in which music making can inspire and facilitate social change amongst the “society of captives.” It explores the social dynamics of prison music projects, and then looks at the ways in which music making can begin to transform the wider social world of prison. It reports a qualitative investigation of two such projects delivered by the Irene Taylor Trust (ITT) in a medium-security, adult male prison in England. Methods comprised participant observations of the projects over a period of 14 months, and semi-structured interviews with prisoner participants, facilitators, and members of prison staff.

Much research shows that taking part in prison music projects can help participants develop social skills and thus contribute to their rehabilitation and desistance from crime. The present study revealed that the ITT projects were not merely the setting for learning individual social skills; the participants also felt themselves to be joining or forming a community that was distinct from the wider prison community. The impact of their musical activities on their lives in prison was as important to them as its potential contribution to their lives following release. The findings are discussed with reference to the work of DeNora, suggesting that music projects can provide the setting for removal communities, with norms distinct from and better than those of typical social life in prison, and can transform or refurnish the wider prison environment, as participants continue their music making on the landings and in their cells.