bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control Messages Overhead Impact on Destination Oriented Directed Acyclic Graph—A Wireless Sensor Networks Objective Functions Performance Comparison
Authors: Onwuegbuzie Innocent Uzougbo , Razak Shukor Abd , Isnin Ismail Fauzi
Published: April 2020

Routing Protocol for Low-power and Lossy Network (RPL) with IPv6 support is the de facto standard for routing over Low-power and Lossy Network (LLN) called Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN). Objective Functions namely Minimum Rank with Hysteresis Objective Function (MRHOF) and Objective
Function Zero (OF0) together with the Internet Control Messaging Protocol (ICMP) control messages, propel RPL to constructs routing paths called Destination Oriented Directed Acyclic Graph (DODAG), for packet routing within the sensor network. To the best knowledge of the authors, no detailed
investigation has been carried out to unravel the dynamics of how these control messages impact on the network with respect to DODAG formation right before convergence is attained, particularly from the perspective of MRHOF and OF0. In this paper, the authors investigated the various types
of control messages (DODAG Information Solicitation, DODAG Information Object and Destination Advertisement Object) used to setup the DODAG. RPL Simulations was carried out on one 100 nodes, starting with 10 nodes and incremented by 10 until the 100th node. Each simulation was repeated five
times with a confidence level of 95%, which statistically signifies a reliable and acceptable confidence interval, for a duration of thirty minutes. Results obtained showed that the DIS–OF0 generated the least packets with 125 packets, followed by DAO–MRHOF with 1357 packets and
the most generated; DIO–MRHOF with 1536 packets. Subsequently, MRHOF had higher Convergence Time of 130.67 seconds as to 87.93 seconds for OF0. This information is valuable for both the academia and industry.
Recent Developments in Construction Post Contract Cost Control Systems
Authors: Igwe Uchenna Sampson , Mohamed Sarajul Fikri , Azwarie Mohamed Bin Mat Dzahir , Paulson Eberechukwu N.
Published: April 2020

Construction Cost control is an integral part of Cost management processes of Construction projects. Project cost management involves all the processes involved in planning, estimating, budgeting, financing, Funding, managing and controlling costs so that the project can be scheduled
for completion within the approved budget. Cost overrun is a major global issue in construction project performance which occurs predominantly during the construction phase of a project. Different cost control techniques and models have been in practice to ensure cost performance, yet construction
projects are rarely completed within the scheduled budget. Due to this incessant cost variances in projects, cost control systems are still being reviewed. Different construction outfits employ different techniques or similar methods just to ensure that cost is within budget. The ultimate
concern of the Quantity Surveyor (QS) is to ensure that track records of all activities during construction is well articulated to nearest accuracy for monitoring site expenditures. For this reason, the QS on site daily does the routine work of cost data collections, recordings, analysis and
reporting to keep expenditure within budget. This is usually the normal routine in most construction outfits in developing and underdeveloped countries. Different technologies are currently and methods have been employed to increase the efficiency and accuracy of construction data for cost
effectiveness. The current technological trend and innovations is therefore reshaping cost control systems with the use of new technologies and software. There are new developments in the methods of controlling cost during construction due to the recent construction innovations. This paper
presents the recent developments involved in controlling the cost of construction projects at the construction phase with emphasis laid on the construction innovations and technological advancement. The current different technologies used in implementing cost control were X-rayed and how the
present-day cost managers are utilizing the new developments.
Analysis of NRC-Net Global Positioning System-Derived Velocity Vectors for Tectonic Movement in Malaysia
Authors: Johari Nini Nurdiana , Musa Tajul Ariffin , Din Usmuni , Aris Wan Anom Wan
Published: April 2020

This paper seeks to estimate the velocity vectors of National Research and Development (R&D) Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) network (NRC-net) by utilizing Global Positioning System (GPS) observation spanning the period of the year 2013–2016. Currently, the
NRC-net consists of twenty (20) permanent, widely distributed stations which have been operated continuously since 2009 over Malaysia. In this paper, GPS data were processed and presented in terms of coordinate time series to estimate the velocity vectors by employing linear least squares
regression which able to portray the general overview on the tectonic movement of the Malaysia region. Up component shows vertical velocity of less than 1.00 cm/year while both north and east components were further analyzed with respect to MORVEL 2010 tectonic model which demonstrate residual
velocity of NRC-net stations, less than 0.50 cm/year.
A Review of Meteorological Drought Based Indices Towards Integrated Water Resources Management in Iraq
Authors: Ahmad Hafed Qasem , Kamaruddin Samira A. , Agha Omar M. A. Mahmood , Harun Sobri B. , Zaaboul Rashyd
Published: April 2020

Drought is considered as one of the natural dangerous and extreme phenomena. Since ancient times, the world had suffered from drought, which has a negative impact on human life that affect economic, social, cultural and tourism sectors. It means a severe shortage of water resources
due to lack of rainfall and falling below the normal rate during a certain period of time, causing heavy losses on agricultural production, forcing some population to migrate and occurrence of disasters humanitarian disasters such as famine. Climate in Iraq is classified as a semi-arid and
arid, many researchers had found that Iraq has suffered from drought, but this suffering will increase in the future due to deficiency of expected precipitation and increase temperatures. Therefore, the aimed to review meteorological drought in Iraq. This paper attempts to illustrate the key
elements, indices, and categorization of drought and previous studies conducted in Iraq about drought. Conclusions of the review highlight gaps where it needs to focus more research of integrated water resources management to be implemented by decision makers in Iraq.
Gain Enhancement for Whole Ultra-Wideband Frequencies of a Microstrip Patch Antenna
Authors: Abdullah Al-Gburi Ahmed Jamal , Ibrahim I. M. , Zakaria Z.
Published: April 2020

A rectangular microstrip patch antenna over ultra-wideband with superstrate are designed and analyzed. Four iterations A, B, C, D were designs. Iterations A and B represent the parametric study of the microstrip patch antenna. Iteration C represents Ultrawide band microstrip patch antenna
with peak realized gain 4.196 dB at frequency 10.12 GHz, the gain was enhance using superstrate above the microstrip patch antenna as in iteration D, a novel enhancement happens for the whole ultra-wideband frequency band (3.1–10.6 GHz) with highest salient realised gain of 5.3 dB at
frequency 10.55 GHz. The proposed antenna gain at iteration D is increased by 26.49%, which is useful for many applications such as satellite communication. Simulation and discussion results of the proposed antenna are present within this paper.
Spatial Dynamics of Tsunami Prone Areas in Pariaman City, West Sumatera
Authors: Supriatna S. , Pratiwi Sri Fauza , Marko Kuswantoro , Manessa Masita Dwi Mandini , Ristya Yoanna
Published: April 2020

Pariaman City is one of cities in Indonesia that has a very high incidence of earthquakes both on land and under the sea. This is caused the Pariaman City region is directly adjacent to the Indian Ocean which is the convergence for two tectonic plates, namely the Eurasian Plate and
the Indo-Australian Plate. One of these plates goes down into the other plate then it happens the subduction. Subduction earthquakes that result from convergence two plates very active in generating tsunami waves. This study aims to analyze the spatial dynamics model for tsunami prone areas
in Pariaman City by using the Cellular Automata-Markov Chains (CA-MC) method, this method is used to modeling tsunami prone areas in Pariaman City in 2030 based on driving factors that given to models. Driving factors used in this study are elevation, slope, distance from the coastline,
distance from the road, and distance from the river. CA-MC presents land cover changes depend on neighboring cells. After the model is generated, then analyzed based on Pariaman City spatial plan in 2030 to be compared. To obtain tsunami prone areas, the prediction model for 2030 land
cover is overlaid with tsunami hazard. The results showed that from 2018 to 2030, there was an increase in tsunami prone areas with low, medium and high classes in settlements areas.
Automatic Article Summary with the Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency Algorithm for Information on Elderly Health
Authors: Sulaksono Juli , Ramadhani Risky Aswi , Niswatin Ratih Kumalasari
Published: April 2020

Elderly is someone whose age ranges from 60–74 years. At that age, one’s health tends to decline. Various programs have been provided by the Indonesian government, such as providing information, giving brochures, and giving announcements on the health service website. But
this counselling is not optimal because of the elderly, tend to be lazy to read this because the eyes have started to farsight. So that the health information provided by dina health can be optimal, we try to make a model that is used to summarize an article so that the article is easily understood
by the elderly. To summarize the article, this study uses the TF-IDF algorithm. By using the TF-IDF algorithm, it is expected that the elderly will be easier to understand health articles.
How to Development Learning Models for Programing Algorithms E-Learning Assistance
Authors: Efendi Yasin , Situmorang Robinson , Musnir Diana Nomida
Published: April 2020

This research aims to develop a learning model of Programming Algorithms and the Data I Structure of e-learning assistance. Research and development of this model will produce products in the form of print modules, learning designs and e-learning assisted media for Algorithms and Data
I Structure courses. Development of learning models for Programming Algorithms and Structure of Data I for e-learning assistance using the Dick and Carey model design modified with the Trollip and Alessi models. The steps taken in the development of this model are preliminary research, planning
and model development, validation, evaluation and revision of the model, and implementation of the model. Validation results from experts consisting of 93% learning design experts, 95% material experts, and 87% of media experts recommend that this development model is used in learning Programming
Algorithms and Structure of Data I. As for the implementation of individual trials are achieved 95% achievement, a small group trials reaching 95%, and a field test achieved 96% success. The conclusion of the expert validation process and the results of trials, that the development of learning
models of Programming Algorithms and Structure of Data I for e-learning assistance is feasible to be used in learning.
Molecular Dynamic Simulation on the Stability of Corporated Metal Organic Framework and Choline Based Ionic Liquids
Authors: Ishak Mohamad Adil Iman , Jumbri Khairulazhar , Bustam@Khalil Mohamad Azmi , Daud Shaari
Published: April 2020

A compatibility and stability of Isoreticular Metal Organic Framework (IRMOF-1) impregnated with choline based ionic liquids (ILs) are studied by molecular dynamic simulation. Among three proposed IL/IRMOF-1 hybrid composites, cholinium formate, ([Chl][Fm]) is nominated as the best
IL to be incorporated with IRMOF-1 since it shows the lowest RMSD value (0.502 nm, 0.637 nm, 0.923 nm) at three IL/IRMOF-1 w/w ratio (0.4%, 0.8% and 1.2%) respectively and become representative to all three ILs. Oxygen atom in the bridging carboxyl group shows the most flexible atom through
RMSF analysis since it shows the highest fluctuation (1.001 nm) at WIL/IRMOF-1 = 0.4%. The RDF shows that the interaction between [Chl]+ and [Fm]− is higher in composite phase compare to bulky phase due to confinement effect of IRMOF-1. Both [Chl]+
and [Fm]− seem to be preferred to locate around carboxylate group inside the IRMOF-1 whereby [Fm]− shows the dominant interaction and strongly interacts with IRMOF-1 compared to [Chl]+. In terms of mobility, the cation shows high mobility with SDF
value of 0.0419 nm2 in which mobility is expected to be increased with increasing of ILs ratio (0.4%, 0.8% and 1.2%) respectively. Intensity of the ions population around IRMOF-1 is interpreted by density map which is in agreement with the RDF analysis. Finally, the stability of
the IRMOF-1 is confirmed by the radius of gyration (Rg) analysis in which 0.4% ILs shows the most stable conformation with the lowest Rg value = 1.667 nm that is in consistent with the RMSD analysis. Overall, the structural stability of IRMOF-1 is well interpreted
and impregnation of ILs literally increase the stability of framework at lower IL/IRMOF-1 w/w ratio.
Typhoon Type Index: A New Index for Understanding the Rain or Wind Characteristics of Typhoons and Its Application to Agricultural Losses and Crop Vulnerability
Authors: Lin Yuan-Chien , Wang Wen-Hsin , Lai Chun-Yeh , Lin Yong-Qing
Published: April 2020

Heavy rainfall and strong wind are the two main sources of disasters that are caused by tropical cyclones (TCs), and typhoons with different characteristics may induce different agricultural losses. Traditionally, the classification of typhoon intensity has not considered the amount of rainfall. Here, we propose a novel approach to calculate the typhoon type index (TTI). A positive TTI represents a “wind type” typhoon, where the overall damage in a certain area from TCs is dominated by strong wind. On the other hand, a negative TTI represents a “rain type” typhoon, where the overall damage in a certain area from TCs is dominated by heavy rainfall. From the TTI, the vulnerability of crop losses from different types of typhoons can be compared and explored. For example, Typhoon Kalmaegi (2008) was classified as a rain-type typhoon (TTI = −1.22). The most affected crops were oriental melons and leafy vegetables. On the contrary, Typhoon Soudelor (2015) was classified as a significant wind-type typhoon in most of Taiwan (TTI = 1.83), and the damaged crops were mainly bananas, bamboo shoots, pomelos, and other crops that are easily blown off by strong winds. Through the method that is proposed in this study, we can understand the characteristics of each typhoon that deviate from the general situation and explore the damages that are mainly caused by strong winds or heavy rainfall at different locations. This approach can provide very useful information that is important for the disaster analysis of different agricultural products.
Different Influences of Southeastern Indian Ocean and Western Indian Ocean SST Anomalies on Eastern China Rainfall during the Decaying Summer of the 2015/16 Extreme El Niño
Authors: Chen Jiepeng , Yu Jin-Yi , Wang Xin , Lian Tao
Published: April 2020

Previous studies linked the increase of the middle and low reaches of the Yangtze River (MLRYR) rainfall to tropical Indian Ocean warming during extreme El Niños’ (e.g., 1982/83 and 1997/98 extreme El Niños) decaying summer. This study finds the linkage to be different for the recent 2015/16 extreme El Niño’s decaying summer, during which the above-normal rainfalls over MLRYR and northern China are respectively linked to southeastern Indian Ocean warming and western tropical Indian Ocean cooling in sea surface temperatures (SSTs). The southeastern Indian Ocean warming helps to maintain the El Niño–induced anomalous lower-level anticyclone over the western North Pacific Ocean and southern China, which enhances moisture transport to increase rainfall over MLRYR. The western tropical Indian Ocean cooling first enhances the rainfall over central-northern India through a regional atmospheric circulation, the latent heating of which further excites a midlatitude Asian teleconnection pattern (part of circumglobal teleconnection) that results in an above-normal rainfall over northern China. The western tropical Indian Ocean cooling during the 2015/16 extreme El Niño is contributed by the increased upward latent heat flux anomalies associated with enhanced surface wind speeds, opposite to the earlier two extreme El Niños.
Critical knots, tensions, and daily resistances in the work against commercial sexual exploitation of children: A reflection from Chilean practitioners
Authors: Ortega-Senet Maria Belen , Gómez Fernández Veronica , Tierney Elyse M
Published: April 2020

This article presents the results obtained in a qualitative study based on the experiences of professionals from two Chilean projects addressing Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC). Methodologically, this study consisted of semi-structured interviews of professionals paired with a group participation-based approach. Participants identified critical knots that stemmed from the difficulty or complexity of CSEC itself, and from the limitations and contradictions of the national child welfare and judicial systems. These points of contradiction produce ethical and emotional tensions, which the professional resolves using accommodations as well as resistances based on the Focus on Rights within these same systems.
Tracing lines in the lawscape: Registration/pilgrimage and the sacred/secular of law/space
Authors: Smith Jessica
Published: April 2020

The aim of this article is to draw upon sacred/secular ‘journeying’ to explore the inherent movement invoked by the state’s documentation of the life course. In tracing this motion, the article follows two intersecting pathways – the literal travel of those who register a life event and the figurative ‘journeying’ of legal identity. The argument develops from a case study conducted at the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge (Canterbury, UK): a museum, gallery, library, cafe, community exhibition, tourist information point and registration hub. But rather than using the building as a frame, to follow more closely the activity of registrars and citizens, I locate imaginative potential in the Beaney’s ‘tessellating’ spaces. Accordingly, the spatial account which is developed is ‘fictive’ in its very nature and offers an implicit critique of a bureaucratic act of governance embedded with legal fiction. In doing so, the article contributes to critical work on registration which deploys the language of ‘journeying’ to outline the performative force of state documentation, and more broadly, to spatial approaches which illustrate patterns of movement within the ‘lawscape’. The article argues that the ‘journeying’ of registration represents a pilgrimage, whereby individuals are ‘called’ to bureaucratic space at the centre of their local sphere, and the certificates they take with them, much like the badges of medieval pilgrims, are ‘takeaway tokens’ of the state – documents which impress legal identities upon us.
When OK is Not OK: Public Concern About White Nationalism in the U.S. Military
Authors: Ralston Robert , Motta Matthew , Spindel Jennifer
Published: April 2020

Are Americans aware and concerned about White nationalism in the U.S. Military? Our large and demographically representative survey suggests that while most Americans suspect at least some presence of White nationalism in the military, many do not view it as a serious problem; particularly self-identified conservatives and respondents who hold highly favorable views toward military service members. However, in a between-/within-subjects experiment embedded in our survey, we show that providing information about the issue of White nationalism in the U.S. Military increases the public’s overall concern about White nationalism in the U.S. Military.
Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on the Management of Head and Neck Malignancies
Authors: Werner Michael T. , Carey Ryan M. , Albergotti W. Greer , Lukens John N. , Brody Robert M.
Published: April 2020

The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on the management of head and neck cancer must be addressed. Immediate measures to reduce transmission rates and protect patients and providers take priority and necessitate some delays in care, particularly for patients with mild symptoms or less aggressive cancers. However, strict guidelines have yet to be developed, and many unintentional delays in care are to be expected based on the magnitude of the looming public health crisis. The medical complexity of head and neck cancer management may lead to prolonged delays that worsen treatment outcomes. Therefore, those caring for patients with head and neck cancer must take action to reduce these negative impacts as the country rallies to overcome the challenges posed by this pandemic.
Information Overload: A Method to Share Updates among Frontline Staff during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Poonia Seerat K. , Rajasekaran Karthik
Published: April 2020

Since COVID‐19 was classified as a pandemic, the stream of important information from multiple sources is constant and always changing. As the pandemic evolves, the need to report relevant information to frontline providers remains crucial. A 1‐page centralized document termed a “quicksheet” was developed to include guidelines, policies, and practical information and to serve as a reference tool for our clinicians. It was updated and distributed frequently, up to once daily. It was initially embraced as an important resource for resident physicians and then quickly adopted by the entire department as a necessary reference and communication tool during the ongoing crisis. The quicksheet has been a beneficial tool to distill and organize the most important and relevant information for frontline staff, and we hope that it can serve as a template for departments and health care workers in other hospital systems to adopt.
Divergent pathways mediate 5-HT1A receptor agonist effects on close social interaction, grooming and aggressive behaviour in mice: Exploring the involvement of the oxytocin and vasopressin systems
Authors: Tan Oliver , Martin Lewis J , Bowen Michael T
Published: April 2020

Background:

5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1AR) abnormalities are implicated in aggression, and there has been considerable interest in developing 5-HT1AR agonists for treating aggression. Endogenous oxytocin (OXT) released upon stimulation of 5-HT1ARs in the hypothalamus mediates at least some of the effects of 5-HT1AR agonists on social behaviour.

Aims:

Given 5-HT1AR, OXT receptor (OXTR) and vasopressin V1a receptor (V1aR) agonists can all reduce aggression, the current study aimed to determine whether the anti-aggressive effects of 5-HT1AR stimulation can also be explained by downstream actions at OXTRs and/or V1aRs in a mouse model of non-territorial, hyper-aggressive behaviour.

Methods:

Male Swiss mice ( N=80) were socially isolated or group housed for six weeks prior to the start of testing. Testing involved placing two unfamiliar weight- and condition-matched mice together in a neutral context for 10 minutes.

Results:

Social isolation led to a pronounced increase in aggressive behaviour, which was dose-dependently inhibited by the 5-HT1AR agonist 8-OH-DPAT (0.1, 0.3 and 1 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p.)), with accompanying increases in close social contact (huddling) and grooming. The effects of 8-OH-DPAT on aggression, huddling and grooming were blocked by pretreatment with a selective 5-HT1AR antagonist (WAY-100635; 0.1 mg/kg i.p.). The anti-aggressive effects of 8-OH-DPAT were unaffected by an OXTR antagonist (L-368,899; 10 mg/kg i.p.), whereas the effects on huddling and grooming were inhibited. Pretreatment with a V1aR antagonist (SR49059; 20 mg/kg i.p.) had no effect.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests that stimulation of endogenous oxytocin is involved in the effects of 5-HT1AR activation on close social contact and grooming but not aggression.
Novel “all-in-one” sandwich technique for reconstruction of full-thickness defects of the lower eyelid: a case report
Authors: Fodor Lucian , Bran Simion , Armencea Gabriel , Onisor Florin
Published: April 2020

The current paper presents a case report of lower eyelid reconstruction after removal of a basal cell carcinoma. Our novel reconstruction method consists of translation and rotation of a paramedian forehead flap into the defect, conjunctivorhinostomy for reconstruction of the nasolacrimal duct, and placement of a sandwich ear cartilage graft that is primarily seated into the forehead flap to maintain the vertical dimension of the eyelid. This “all-in-one” technique has the advantage of one-step reconstruction, avoiding multiple surgical procedures.
Infiltration of nanocarbon suspension into the tracheal cavity during surgical treatment of papillary thyroid carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Zhu Lin-bo , Zhu Feng , Li Peng-fei , Zhang Peng-bin
Published: April 2020

Cervical lymph node metastasis in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer affects postoperative recurrence and survival. Hypoparathyroidism is caused by parathyroid gland injury during thyroidectomy. Carbon nanoparticles can trace stained lymph nodes, aiding in thorough dissection of lymph nodes in the operation area. To reduce postoperative occurrence of hypoparathyroidism, the parathyroid glands and their functions (identified by negative imaging induced by carbon nanoparticles) are retained in situ. However, the safety and adverse effects of nanocarbon suspension in thyroid surgery have rarely been evaluated. In this report, we describe a patient with thyroid cancer who had carbon secretions in the trachea caused by nanocarbon suspension when tracheal intubation was performed under general anesthesia, and the inflatable balloon surface of the tracheal tube was covered with these secretions. The patient recovered without fever, cough, phlegm production, chest pain, hoarseness, or hypocalcemia-induced convulsions. No consensus has yet been reached on the most appropriate injection site, depth, dose, or waiting time for nanocarbons in thyroid cancer surgery. We believe that nanocarbon suspension is safe for use in thyroid cancer surgery, but the most appropriate injection depth should be based on the thickness of the thyroid gland tissue to avoid deep injection into the trachea.
Lumpy Skin Disease Is Characterized by Severe Multifocal Dermatitis With Necrotizing Fibrinoid Vasculitis Following Experimental Infection
Authors: Sanz-Bernardo Beatriz , Haga Ismar R. , Wijesiriwardana Najith , Hawes Philippa C. , Simpson Jennifer , Morrison Linda R. , MacIntyre Neil , Brocchi Emiliana , Atkinson John , Haegeman Andy , De Clercq Kris , Darpel Karin E. , Beard Philippa M.
Published: April 2020

Lumpy skin disease is a high-consequence disease in cattle caused by infection with the poxvirus lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV). The virus is endemic in most countries in Africa and an emerging threat to cattle populations in Europe and Asia. As LSDV spreads into new regions, it is important that signs of disease are recognized promptly by animal caregivers. This study describes the gross, microscopic, and ultrastructural changes that occur over time in cattle experimentally challenged with LSDV. Four calves were inoculated with wildtype LSDV and monitored for 19 to 21 days. At 7 days after inoculation, 2 of the 4 cattle developed multifocal cutaneous nodules characteristic of LSD. Some lesions displayed a targetoid appearance. Histologically, intercellular and intracellular edema was present in the epidermis of some nodules. Occasional intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies were identified in keratinocytes. More severe and consistent changes were present in the dermis, with marked histiocytic inflammation and necrotizing fibrinoid vasculitis of dermal vessels, particularly the deep dermal plexus. Chronic lesions consisted of full-thickness necrosis of the dermis and epidermis. Lesions in other body organs were not a major feature of LSD in this study, highlighting the strong cutaneous tropism of this virus. Immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy identified LSDV-infected histiocytes and fibroblasts in the skin nodules of affected cattle. This study highlights the noteworthy lesions of LSDV and how they develop over time.
Dancing in the Street: Impacting At-Risk Youths’ Lives through the Arts
Authors: Davis Sharon Kantorowski
Published: April 2020

In the United States, youth involvement in delinquent and criminal acts remains persistent and increasingly violent. For at-risk youth, key demographics include poverty and distressed communities. Since traditional interventions have had limited success in addressing the needs of and issues experienced by these youths, millennials must seek new and creative techniques and programs to serve them. One such program that currently exists and provides inspiration for the future is Destiny Arts Youth Performance Company, a nonprofit, community dance group based in Oakland, CA, that offers competitive scholarships to deserving, at-risk youth in lower class, largely ethnic communities. In the ethnographic documentary, FREE: The Power of Performance, the lives of five at-risk youths are affected and transformed through the creative medium of dance. It shows that for at-risk, diverse teens, collaborative art can be a foundation for personal strength, liberation, and hope.
Une histoire personnelle de méthodes
Authors: Dubet François
Published: April 2020

Ce texte est un retour sur l’histoire d’une méthode, l’intervention sociologique, avec laquelle j’ai conduit la plupart de mes recherches. J’essaie de dire comment j’y suis venu, pourquoi j’en ai maintenu les principes essentiels au cours de recherches consacrées à des objets bien différents des mouvements sociaux. Je voudrais aussi défendre l’idée selon laquelle les méthodes sont des « théories en acte » qui définissent peut-être mieux les orientations d’une sociologie que ne le font les grands paradigmes théoriques et les querelles d’Écoles convenues.
Uncertain New Middle Classes: Changing Consumption Practices and State Policies in Russia
Authors: Biziukova Volha
Published: April 2020

This article explores the reactions of Russia’s new middle classes to the embargo and import substitution and their changing consumption practices against the background of the economic crisis. It serves as an entry point to look at the interplay of the new middle classes’ socio-economic positionalities and affiliations with the state within a particular political economy. Drawing on fieldwork data collected in 2015–2018, the article traces the subjectivities and orientations that enable the new middle classes’ coping strategies. It demonstrates how their responses are mediated by their imagination of the state and the global hierarchies in which they feel situated to a significant extent through their state membership. The analysis examines how the arrangements of Russia’s political economy come into conflict with the image of a “proper” state, which the new middle classes associate with productive capacity and technological advancement. It invites us to revisit the idea of the eclipse of “production” by “consumption” in assessing the performance of a nation-state, which, as the article shows, is reversed in Russia’s context. Furthermore, it highlights how the reactions to these new policies become a medium to criticize Russia’s post-socialist development and to articulate aspirations for its repositioning in the global system, which is translated into negotiations of the new middle classes’ relatively privileged positions.
Institutional commitment and aging among allied health care professionals in the British National Health Service
Authors: Roy Deborah , Weyman Andrew Keith , Plugor Reka , Nolan Peter
Published: April 2020

Because of a perceived decline in staff morale, the UK National Health Service has begun to routinely assess the extent to which commitment to the National Health Service may aid staff retention. While a number of studies have investigated the role of employee commitment in relation to staff turnover, no research to date has empirically tested if staff commitment to the NHS could protect job satisfaction from the effects of high job demands, and if this varies according to age. Using latent variable path analysis, this novel study examined this question among a national sample of Healthcare Professionals Allied to Medicine in the National Health Service. The results indicate that the negative effects of high job demands on job satisfaction were fully mediated by commitment to the National Health Service, but age mattered. Among the over 45s and over 55s, commitment to the National Health Service acted as an effective buffer against the negative effects of job demands on job satisfaction, but this effect was not as strong among the 35–44 age group. The broader policy implications of these findings are that age sensitive policies to support NHS workforce retention are needed. Also, pro-social institutions who employ Healthcare Professionals Allied to Medicine should develop policies for inspiring commitment to that institution, as it could help them with the demands of the job, and may even encourage more skilled workers to work longer.
User needs and the building blocks of regulation: Using participatory design to prototype social enterprise legal structures in Australia
Authors: Moran Michael , Seibert Krystian , Barnes Carolyn , Martin Fiona
Published: April 2020

Although co-design is acknowledged as an emerging tool in public administration for use in program or service system design, it has not been widely applied to complex policy spheres, such as law and regulation. In the context of policy development for the field of social enterprise, we explored the use of co-design as a facilitation method to elicit end-users’ experience of regulation and to generate options for reform. Specifically, this involved the use of LEGO® Serious Play® to understand end-user views on legal structures following a push by policy advocates in Australia for a structure to serve the needs of social enterprise, similar to that available in the United Kingdom. The article makes two contributions to research on co-design in public policy. The first contribution is methodological. We offer insights into the application of co-design to a new area, law and regulation, finding that co-design is useful for generating bottom-up insights into the regulatory preferences of end-users but has certain limitations as a tool for research and policy development, notably in relation to the feasibility of the insights it may provide. The second contribution is uncovering empirical insights into end-user preferences regarding how regulatory reform might improve the policy environment for social enterprise development in Australia and beyond.
Optimization control for dynamic vibration absorbers and active suspensions of in-wheel-motor-driven electric vehicles
Authors: Liu Mingchun , Zhang Yuanzhi , Huang Juhua , Zhang Caizhi
Published: April 2020

This study addresses the challenges of ride comfort improvement and in-wheel-motor vibration suppression in in-wheel-motor-driven electric vehicles. First, a mathematical model of a quarter vehicle equipped with a dynamic vibration absorber and an active suspension is developed. Then, a two-stage optimization control method is proposed to improve the coupled dynamic vibration absorber–suspension performance. In the first stage, a linear quadratic regulator controller based on particle swarm optimization is designed for the dynamic vibration absorber to suppress the in-wheel-motor vibration, in which the dynamic vibration absorber parameters and linear quadratic regulator controller weighting factors are optimally matched by using the particle swarm optimization algorithm. In the second stage, a finite-frequency H∞ controller is designed in the framework of linear matrix inequality optimization for the active suspension to improve vehicle ride comfort. Suspension performance factors, including suspension working space and road-holding ability, are taken as constraints in both stages. The proposed method simultaneously improves vehicle ride comfort and suppresses in-wheel-motor vibration. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method are illustrated through comparison simulations.
Trabeculectomy in an unsuspected extramedullary iris–ciliary body plasmacytoma
Authors: Selvan Harathy , Kashyap Seema , Sen Seema , Chawla Bhavna , Lomi Neiwete , Gupta Viney
Published: April 2020

Extramedullary plasmacytoma of the iris and ciliary body is extremely rare. We present a case which was misdiagnosed as granulomatous uveitis with neovascular glaucoma, and underwent a trabeculectomy with mitomycin-c along with iris biopsy. The post-operative period showed early bleb failure and catastrophic growth of the suspected mass. Histopathological examination revealed a diagnosis iris plasmacytoma. Subsequent ultrasound biomicroscopy showed involvement of the iris and ciliary body. A prompt systemic workup was done, and an associated systemic plasma cell dyscrasia was ruled out. The affected eye was enucleated, and the patient remains disease free at the end of 3-year follow-up.
Revision hip arthroplasty using a porous tantalum acetabular component
Authors: Miettinen Hannu JA , Miettinen Simo SA , Kettunen Jukka S , Jalkanen Jussi , Kröger Heikki
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Reconstruction of acetabulum in case of bone defects can be challenging. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the 10-year survival of trabecular tantalum metal (TM) acetabulum component in revision hip arthroplasty operations and to evaluate complications.

Methods:

A total of 100 consecutive acetabulum revision hip arthroplasties (100 patients) were operated on between May 2004 and October 2006 at Kuopio University Hospital. The mean follow-up time was 9.4 years and the median was 11.5 years (SD 4.118; range 0.1–13.4 years). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to study the survival of patients to re-revision surgery. Intra- and postoperative complications and reasons for re-revision were evaluated.

Results:

The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a cumulative proportion of revision hip survivorship of 66% at 13.4 years (SE 0.403, 95% CI, 10.886–12.466) based on the need for further re-revision surgery for any major reason. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of time to re-revision surgery due acetabular component loosening showed a cumulative proportion of survivorship of 98.9% at 13.4 years (SE 0.136; 95% CI, 12.998–13.529). There were a total of 41/100 complications and the most common complication was dislocation (24/100). Re-revision for any major reason was performed on 18/100 of the revision arthroplasties. The mean time to re-revision was 4.9 years (SD 5.247; range 0.1–13.2 years).

Discussion:

The trabecular TM acetabular component gives excellent outcomes regarding stability and fixation to the acetabulum in acetabulum revision hip arthroplasty at a minimum of ten years of follow-up. However, acetabular component malposition and the small head size (28 mm) are risk factors for dislocation.
After abortion’s arrival in Northern Ireland: Conscientious objection and other concerns
Authors: Emmerich Nathan
Published: April 2020

Until recently, Northern Ireland was infamous for having one of the most restrictive legal frameworks for abortion in Europe. This meant that few were performed in the country, and those who wished to terminate a pregnancy were forced to travel to other parts of the UK or further afield. In 2019 a continuing political stalemate in Northern Ireland has indirectly resulted in the relevant legislation recently being repealed by the UK government. For a short time, this meant that the legal position in Northern Ireland regarding abortion became one of the most permissive in Europe. This short paper sets out the current position and, in the light of the political and legislative roadmap set out by the Northern Ireland Office, identifies and briefly discusses some potential problems that might arise. Most notable are the points raised with regard to conscientious objection. Specifically, the potential for developments in Northern Ireland to further calls for healthcare professional’s ability to rely upon conscientious objection to be removed.
Validation of a Novel Methodology to Evaluate Changes in the Flare Geometry of Renovisceral Bridging Stent-Grafts After Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Overeem Simon , Schuurmann Richte , Schumacher Michiel , Jolink Floortje , Ketel Mirte , Nijendijk Bob , Slump Kees , Versluis Michel , de Vries Jean-Paul
Published: April 2020

Purpose: To validate a novel method to evaluate changes in the geometry of renovisceral bridging stent-grafts (BSGs) in patients undergoing fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (fEVAR). Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis was conducted of serial computed tomography angiograms (CTAs) of 10 fEVAR patients (31 BSGs) with at least 2 years of CTA follow-up. Centerline reconstructions were made through the fenestrated stent-graft (FSG) and each BSG. Flare geometry was reconstructed based on marker coordinates and a mesh of the aortic lumen. The shortest distance was calculated from the top of the flare circumference to the FSG fabric. The amount of flaring was assessed with the flare to fenestration diameter ratio and BSG compression to diameter ratio (D-ratio). All measurements were performed by 2 observers. Interobserver variability was assessed; results are presented as the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and repeatability coefficient (RC). Results: Excellent interobserver agreement was achieved for BSG diameter and flare to fenestration distance calculations (ICC 0.865 and 0.944; RC 2.2% and 4.5%, respectively). Six patients had BSG-related complications during follow-up: 2 type IIIc endoleaks and 4 BSG occlusions. Five of the 6 BSGs with complications showed a considerable change in the D-ratio compared with the first postoperative CTA. Conclusion: Precise assessment of the geometry of visceral BSGs in fEVAR is feasible with the presented method. Geometrical changes that may precede later complications can be detected, which could aid in localization of the origin, but a larger series of patients is necessary to define its true clinical merit.
Using metaphor to illuminate quality in early childhood education
Authors: Fenech Marianne , Harrison Linda J , Press Fran , Sumsion Jennifer
Published: April 2020

This paper reports on a study in which educators from four early childhood centres used metaphor to discuss their provision of high-quality early childhood education. Qualitative mining of focus group data confirmed ‘quality’ to be complex, multi-dimensional and value-laden. Findings contribute to understandings of quality in early childhood education through four key themes: ‘quality’ as a synergetic flow; the facilitative stance and impact of leaders in the enactment of leadership; children as active contributors to quality; and the role of love. Metaphor is shown to be a valuable tool that can highlight tangible and intangible quality contributors, how these contributors link together and the contextual specificity from which quality in individual early childhood education settings emanates.
A review of community playgroup participation
Authors: McLean Karen , Edwards Susan , Mantilla Ana
Published: April 2020

Community playgroups, which are one type of playgroup and early childhood service, operate on a weekly basis under the leadership of volunteer caregivers (including parents, kinship members, family-day carers and other adults in children’s lives). Caregivers and children voluntarily attend and participate in community playgroups. Although community playgroups operate throughout Australia and similar models exist internationally, little is known about the benefits and/or otherwise of community playgroup participation for children, families and communities. A review of the research into community playgroup participation, specifically research investigating children and families’ participation in community playgroups published between 2000 and 2018, is reported in this paper. The findings from the five peer-reviewed papers identified through the search provide directions for further research needed to build the evidence base for community playgroup participation.
Comparing image quality of single- and dual-energy computed tomography of the brain
Authors: Dodig Doris , Kovačić Slavica , Matana Kaštelan Zrinka , Žuža Iva , Benić Filip , Slaven Jurković , Miletić Damir , Rumboldt Zoran
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Weighted average dual-energy computed tomography (DE-CT) reconstructions are considered a proxy of standard CT images of the brain, recommended for routine clinical use and used as a reference standard in DE-CT research. However, their image quality has not been assessed, which was the aim of our study.

Methods

Images from 81 consecutive patients who underwent both non-contrast single-energy (SE)-CT and DE-CT of the brain on the same scanner were retrospectively evaluated. Attenuation values (HU) and SD of grey matter/white matter (GM/WM) pairs, along with SD in the posterior fossa and subcalvarial region were measured. Four readers evaluated image noise, GM/WM contrast, posterior fossa and subcalvarial artefacts, as well as overall image quality.

Results

Weighted average DE-CT GM and WM HU were significantly lower and noise higher compared to SE-CT (GM HU 36.46 v. 41.82; WM HU 28.18 v. 29.94; GM SD 2.93 v. 2.49; and WM SD 3.16 v. 2.44, all p < 0.0001). After correcting the measured SE-CT noise for 37% higher acquisition dose, DE-CT GM noise became significantly lower (2.93 v. 3.11, p = 0.0121). Measured and dose corrected SE-CT GM/WM contrast-to-noise ratio was superior to weighted average DE-CT (3.42 and 2.74 v. 1.95, both p < 0.0001). Weighted average DE-CT had significantly less artifacts on qualitative analysis.

Conclusion

Weighted average DE-CT images of the brain yield less artefacts at 37% dose reduction and lower noise at SE-CT equivalent dose. Dose-adjusted GM/WM contrast-to-noise ratio of weighted average DE-CT with 0.4 weighting factor remains inferior to SE-CT images.
Urban entrepreneurialism 2.0? Financialization, cross-scale dynamics, and post-political governance
Authors: He Shenjing
Published: April 2020

In this commentary, while I acknowledge the value of differentiating varieties of urban entrepreneurialism by focusing on different forms and geographies of innovation in public services, three major pitfalls impeding a renewed understanding of urban entrepreneurialism are identified. First of all, financialization, either as a means or an end, plays a central role in contemporary urban entrepreneurialism and deserves a more thorough scrutiny. Second, discounting the fluidity of spatial scales and multidirectionality in entrepreneurial policy-making, a taxonomy of urban entrepreneurialism is at best a rather flat comparison of urban entrepreneurship and innovation. Finally, the ‘innovation’ in the ways that citizens are governed (e.g. the introduction of a series of new techniques of neoliberal governmentality in the post-political age) should not be overlooked in understanding the ends to which urban entrepreneurialism is turned.