bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Call for Computer Recess: The Impact of Computer Activities on Predominantly Minority Students’ Technology and Application Self-Efficacy
Authors: Ball Christopher , Huang Kuo-Ting , Francis Jess , Kadylak Travis , Cotten Shelia R.
Published: May 2020

The digital divide limits the flow of potential students through the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) pipeline and into STEM careers. The digital divide is a dynamic and constantly evolving concept of digital exclusion that encompasses numerous dimensions and levels. The “usage access gap” and the “second-level divide” both account for differences in how digitally divided people actually use technology. In this study, we employ social cognitive theory as a framework to explore the impact of various kinds of technology usage on predominately minority students’ technology and application self-efficacy. Data were gathered over the course of a large-scale computing intervention that took place in an elementary school district in the southeastern United States. Results indicate that usage access gap activities and second-level divide activities, such as playing games or talking to friends online, may actually help increase students’ technology self-efficacy and computer application self-efficacy. Entertainment and social networking activities provide students with positive direct experiences with technology, which may help close this dimension/level of the digital divide over time. Future computing interventions should consider establishing dedicated “computer recess” time to help digitally divided students increase their technology self-efficacy.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Rapid Screening of Cinnamon Essential Oils
Authors: Nelson Patrick , Adimabua Perculiar , Wang Ankai , Zou Shengli , Shah Nilam C.
Published: May 2020

Cinnamon essential oil is used in food flavoring, food preservation, and for complementary medicine. The most common types of cinnamon used in essential oils are true cinnamon ( Cinnamomum verum) and cassia cinnamon ( Cinnamomum cassia). True cinnamon is commonly adulterated with cassia cinnamon because it is cheaper. However, cassia cinnamon contains higher concentrations of coumarin which has been shown to have adverse health effects. There is a need to develop simple, nondestructive, rapid screening methods for quality control and food authentication and to identify adulteration of cinnamon essential oil. Currently, the most common methods to screen for coumarin in cinnamon include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC). However, these methods require time-consuming sample preparation and detection. Vibrational spectroscopy methods are emerging as a promising alternative for rapid, nondestructive screening for food safety applications. In this study, a rapid screening method has been developed to examine cinnamon essential oils using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The experimental spectra were compared to theoretical calculations using the DFT method BP86/6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The limit of detection of coumarin was determined to be 1 × 10–6 M or 1.46 mg/L using SERS with colloid paste substrates. Furthermore, 1:16 dilutions of cinnamaldehyde and 1:8 dilutions of eugenol were detected using SERS which can help determine if the cinnamon essential oil was made from bark or from leaves. Seven commercially available cinnamon essential oils were also analyzed and compared to reference solutions. SERS was able to discriminate between essential oils primarily composed of cinnamaldehyde and those composed of eugenol. Furthermore, the SERS method detected peaks that are attributed to coumarin in two of the commercially available samples. To date, this is the first time SERS has been used to rapidly screen cinnamon essential oils.
Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy: The Power of Power Spectra
Authors: Czarnecki Mirosław A.
Published: May 2020

Power spectra are a powerful tool provided by two-dimensional correlation analysis. However, this tool is seldom used in practice. This work shows selected examples of using of the power spectra for the study of various kinds of samples with the aim to promote more common use of this tool. By examination of the power spectrum of specific sample, one can estimate the sensitivity of different molecular fragments on a given perturbation. Determination of the power spectra for smaller data subsets provides information on the dynamics of perturbation-induced spectral changes. If the experimental spectra of different samples in the same perturbation window are recorded, the comparison of the power spectra yields information on differences in the sensitivity of various samples on common perturbation. This possibility is particularly useful for studies of the spectra-structure correlations, interactions, and molecular dynamics. A comparison of the power spectra obtained by using different reference spectra provides information on the nature of spectral changes at different wavenumbers.
When Less Is More: How Mindset Influences Consumers’ Responses to Products with Reduced Negative Attributes
Authors: Wong Vincent Chi , Su Lei , Lam Howard Pong-Yuen
Published: May 2020

Marketing communications often describe a reduction in a product’s negative attributes (e.g., “our mineral water now uses 34% less plastic”). This claim may be interpreted as a trend of improving relative to previous state. However, such a claim may also call attention to a negative product feature that might have otherwise been overlooked. The authors suggest that whether consumers are positively or negatively influenced by such claims depends on whether the claims are interpreted through an incremental or entity mindset. When a reduction in negative attributes is viewed through an incremental mindset—the tendency to think of attributes as malleable—a trend-based interpretation results in improved product evaluations. In contrast, an entity mindset that emphasizes attributes are unlikely to change produces a negative effect for the claim. Four experiments and a field survey (N = 2,543) across food, pharmaceuticals, and plastic bottle products confirm the effects and indicate that the effects diminish when consumers believe the attribute is easy to eliminate or when the attribute has extremely threatening consequences. The opposite is observed for claims of reduced positive attributes, such that an entity mindset produces more positive evaluations. The findings offer marketers consumer insights to guide the communication of negatively framed attributes.
When Individual Differences Meet Society: On the Complex Relationships Between Boredom Proneness, Material Deprivation, and Aspects of Subjective Well-Being Among Young Adolescents
Authors: Spruyt Bram , Van Droogenbroeck Filip , Siongers Jessy , Bradt Lieve
Published: May 2020

Even though boredom has been shown to be a distinct emotional experience that is prevalent among youth and that predicts a wide range of personal and societal problems, it remains often overlooked and poorly understood. Therefore, based on the Flemish data from the 2018 edition of the International Survey of Children’s Well-Being, this article studies boredom proneness among young adolescents (average age = 12 years). Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the short version of the Boredom Proneness Scale–Child Version contains two dimensions referring to internal—a difficulty in keeping oneself interested and entertained—and external stimulation—the need for change and variety in the situations one encounters. Subsequent regression analyses demonstrated that both boredom proneness and social conditions predict aspects of subjective well-being (i.e., leisure boredom and life satisfaction). Our analyses revealed complex interactions between individual differences and social conditions with respect to aspects of well-being.
Certain aspects of the development of foreign language professional competencies of public administration students
Authors: Nurlybaeva Guliya K
Published: May 2020

For the full implementation of strategic goals of public administration, as well as a worthy representation of the interests of the state at the international level, civil servants must have high foreign-language professional competencies.

Practical issues of educational and training programs in the field of development of these competencies are carefully studied by the author. The current state of the level of language training of future civil service students (undergraduates, graduates and postgraduates) at the Institute for Social Sciences at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration is analyzed. The analysis includes the definition and formulation of tasks, goals, curriculum technologies, qualification requirements of future civil servants, ways of improving the quality of their knowledge of foreign languages and improving the methodological support of foreign-language teaching, and the creation of textbooks and teaching aids to solve the above-mentioned problem, etc. The research methods include theoretical research, analytical research methods, methodology of empirical research and methods of comparative research.

The conclusions are based on the results of the analysis. Ways of improving programs for better development of civil servants’ foreign-language professional competencies are outlined. Some recommendations for teachers and education managers are presented.
Comprehension Scores Among Young Neurotypical Children and Children With Autism: Paper and iPad® Storybooks
Authors: Marble-Flint Karissa J. , Strattman Kathy H. , Schommer-Aikins Marlene A.
Published: May 2020

This initial study used an equivalent-groups design to evaluate differences in story comprehension scores between children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their neurotypical (NT) peers using paper and iPad® storybooks. Fifteen children with ASD of ages 4–6 and 15 NT peers matched for receptive vocabulary age and gender met inclusion criteria. Across two individualized testing sessions, participants answered language abstraction questions about three formats of Pete the Cat stories (paper, iPad adult read, and iPad with the read-to-me feature activated) during shared storybook reading. When examining the entire group of participants, all children performed better with either type of iPad storybook compared to the paper book. The current study indicates storybooks on the iPad function in similar ways for NT children and children with ASD. Further, this research shows promise for using the iPad with young children during shared storybook reading. Directions for future research and implications for special education personnel are provided.
Excluding Pulmonary Embolism with End-tidal Carbon Dioxide: Accuracy, Cost, and Harm Avoidance
Authors: Prentice Donna , Deroche Chelsea B. , Wipke-Tevis Deidre D.
Published: May 2020

A non-randomized single center prospective, descriptive, correlational design was used to determine what end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) level provided the best sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value to exclude pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnosis in hemodynamically stable hospitalized adults ( n = 111). The financial impact and harm avoidance of adding EtCO2 to the PE diagnostic process also were examined. PE diagnosis was determined by computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). PE prevalence was 18.9%. Mean±SD EtCO2 was lower for PE positive than negative participants (28 ± 7.8 to 33 ± 8.1 mmHg respectively 95% CI: 1.22–8.96; P = .01). For PE exclusion, an EtCO2 cutoff ≥42 mmHg yielded 100% sensitivity, 12.2% specificity, and 100% negative predictive value. For every six inpatients assessed with EtCO2, one could be saved from unnecessary CTPA. Eliminating unnecessary CTPA removes the potential harm associated with radiation and intravenous contrast exposure. Additionally, an EtCO2 cutoff ≥42 mmHg could eliminate ~$88,000/year in healthcare waste at this institution.
Effect of antidepressant drugs on the brain sphingolipid system
Authors: Jaddoa Estabraq , Masania Jinit , Masiero Eva , Sgamma Tiziana , Arroo Randolph , Sillence Daniel , Zetterström Tyra
Published: May 2020

Background:

Major depression is a common mood disorder and the central sphingolipid system has been identified as a possible drug target of this condition. Here we investigated the action of antidepressant drugs on sphingolipid levels in rat brain regions, plasma and in cultured mouse macrophages.

Methods:

Two antidepressant drugs were tested: the serotonin reuptake inhibitor paroxetine and the noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor desipramine, either following acute or chronic treatments. Content of sphingosine and ceramide were analysed using LC-MS or HPLC-UV, respectively. This was from samples of brain, plasma and cultured mouse macrophages. Antidepressant-induced effects on mRNA expression for two key genes of the sphingolipid pathway, SMPD1 and ASAH1, were also measured by using quantitative real-time PCR.

Results:

Chronic but not acute administration of paroxetine or desipramine reduced sphingosine levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus (only paroxetine) but not in the striatum. Ceramide levels were also measured in the hippocampus following chronic paroxetine and likewise to sphingosine this treatment reduced its levels. The corresponding collected plasma samples from chronically treated animals did not show any decrease of sphingosine compared to the corresponding controls. Both drugs failed to reduce sphingosine levels from cultured mouse macrophages. The drug-induced decrease of sphingolipids coincided with reduced mRNA expression of two enzymes of the central sphingolipid pathway, i.e. acid sphingomyelinase ( SMPD1) and acid ceramidase ( ASAH1).

Conclusions:

This study supports the involvement of brain sphingolipids in the mechanism of action by antidepressant drugs and for the first time highlights their differential effects on brain versus plasma levels.
Marketing systems: A Listen, Learn, Leverage Framework
Authors: Domegan Christine , Brychkov Dmitry , McHugh Patricia , McNamara Áine , Harkin Katharine , Fitzgerald Christine , O’Donovan Diarmuid
Published: May 2020

Macromarketing provides the conceptual ground to understand marketing dynamics in a systems setting. Social marketing offers an implementation platform through which collective behavioral change may be accomplished. Qualitative system mapping from systems thinking delivers potentially powerful tools for macromarketing and social marketing in their non-linear causality pursuits. The central theme of the paper is to unveil the marketing dynamics of a complex problem. A MAS informed social marketing systems approach is presented through an inter-disciplinary case study to address the complex challenge of increasing influenza vaccination rates in a hospital systems setting. We identify the dominant behavioral and structural dynamics blocking the desired collective behaviors which present potential opportunities to interrupt the system’s current trajectory. We capture the paradoxically contradicting group choices to systemic outcomes. We show how highly participatory understandings can act as the basis for integrated multilevel, multi-stakeholder interventions to alter the evolutionary patterns over time and space in a system. We conclude that the listening, learning and leveraging processes of undertaking qualitative marketing systems dynamics mapping for collective behavioral change are a potent way forward.
Using a microanalysis intervention to examine shifts in musicians’ self-regulated learning
Authors: Osborne Margaret S , McPherson Gary E , Miksza Peter , Evans Paul
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of using a self-directed practice diary on conservatory pianists’ self-regulated learning tendencies. We sought to determine whether the implementation of a self-directed practice diary based on the three-phase model of self-regulated learning would lead students to gradually demonstrate more self-regulated learning tendencies across a semester of practicing, and if the type and quality of their self-regulated learning tendencies varied as a function of performance ability. A marked and consistent improvement in metacognitive monitoring skills was observed across the semester for all seven participants. Variations between lower and higher ability students were most pronounced in the Forethought stage, with higher ability pianists reporting fewer goals and strategies and higher self-motivational beliefs than their lower ability counterparts. In the Performance phase, higher ability students invested more effort in help seeking and structuring their practice environment, and lower ability students reported more self-instruction. In the Self-Reflection phase, higher ability pianists reported being more focused in the practice session. Suggestions for further refinement of the technique to improve musicians’ ability to master their learning and achieve their personal best are provided.
Medial Meniscal Posterior Horn Tears Are Associated With Increased Posterior Tibial Slope: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Moon Hyun-Soo , Choi Chong-Hyuk , Jung Min , Lee Dae-Young , Eum Kwang-Sik , Kim Sung-Hwan
Published: May 2020

Background:

While the medial meniscal posterior horn (MMPH) is reported to bear a considerable portion of overall load on the knee joint, including compressive and shear forces, no study has yet investigated the relationship between the MMPH and posterior tibial slope (PTS), which is a geometric factor associated with the shear force component in the presence of a compressive load in the knee joint.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose was to investigate the relationship between the PTS and MMPH tears in patients without ligamentous injury. It was hypothesized that the PTS is greater in patients with MMPH tears as compared with those without.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

From March 2015 to December 2018, 159 patients with isolated MMPH tears and 60 patients without any pathologic findings on magnetic resonance imaging (control group) were included in this study. The PTS in the affected and contralateral knees was compared between the groups, which were statistically matched according to baseline characteristics (ie, age, sex, body mass index, radiographic osteoarthritis grade according to the Kellgren-Lawrence scale, and hip-knee-ankle angle) via the inverse probability of treatment weighting method. Furthermore, the MMPH tear group was subdivided according to meniscal tear patterns; these subgroups were then compared with the control group.

Results:

The mean PTS was significantly greater in the MMPH tear group than in the control group (affected knee: MMPH tear group, 7.0°± 3.4° [mean ± SD]; control group, 5.2°± 2.1°, P < .001; contralateral knee: MMPH tear group, 6.7°± 3.3°; control group, 4.7°± 2.2°, P < .001). The mean PTS in each subgroup also tended to be greater than that in the control group. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the cutoff point of the PTS discriminating between the MMPH tear and control groups was 6.6° for the affected knee (sensitivity, 55.3%; specificity, 75.0%) and 5.5° for the contralateral knee (sensitivity, 61.0%; specificity, 76.7%).

Conclusion:

An increased PTS is strongly associated with an increased incidence of MMPH tears and less affected by the meniscal tear patterns.
A Focus Group Evaluation of Breathe Easier: A Mindfulness-Based mHealth App for Survivors of Lung Cancer and Their Family Members
Authors: Beer Jenay M. , Smith Kasey N. , Kennedy Taylor , Mois George , Acena Dane , Gallerani David G. , McDonnell Karen Kane , Owens Otis L.
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

To explore attitudes and acceptance (i.e., intent for future adoption) of survivors of lung cancer and their family members toward a dyad-focused mHealth mindfulness-based intervention (MBI).

Approach:

Focus groups.

Setting:

Community hospital setting in South Carolina.

Participants:

Survivors n = 11 (M = 64.6 years; 73% female; 64% African American) of non-small cell lung cancer (stage I-IIIa) and their family members, n = 8 (M = 58.6 years; 38% female; 75% African American).

Intervention:

A fully functional prototype mHealth app to deliver a tailored MBI for survivors of lung cancer and their family members.

Method:

Semi-structured focus groups were conducted and assessed using thematic data analysis to identify the benefits, concerns, needs, and expectations of the app.

Results:

Convenience and health were the top benefits of using the app, while cost and difficulty of use were the top concerns. Survivors mentioned benefits more than their family members did. Participants felt positively about adding a community network to the app. Finally, participants expected to hear about Breathe Easier from their care provider.

Conclusion:

Participants perceived a benefit to having credible health information delivered through an mHealth app. Guidance and credible health information regarding lung cancer survivorship should be accessible and convenient for everyone impacted by the disease. Thus, future research should explore platforms for a virtual support system and understanding dissemination of mHealth apps through health care providers.
Impact of Prenatal Education on Breastfeeding Initiation Among Low-Income Women
Authors: Ahlers-Schmidt Carolyn R. , Okut Hayrettin , Dowling Jolynn
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

To determine whether participants in the Baby Talk prenatal education program were more likely to initiate breastfeeding than nonparticipants.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study comparing women with a singleton pregnancy who were enrolled in Baby Talk with matched controls based on zip code, maternal age, race, language spoken, and payer source.

Setting:

Urban Midwest county.

Sample:

Baby Talk participants enrolled between November 2015 and December 2016 (n = 299) and matched controls identified through vital statistics records who were not enrolled (n = 1190).

Intervention:

A 12-hour prenatal education curriculum with 2.5 hours of breastfeeding content.

Measures:

The primary outcome was breastfeeding at hospital discharge as reported in vital statistics.

Analysis:

Likelihood-ratio χ2 and Fisher exact test were used to test the significant association between categorical variables.

Results:

Baby Talk participants were significantly more likely to initiate breastfeeding (93.65%) than matched nonparticipants (87.48%; P = .003). Non-Hispanic white and black Baby Talk participants were more likely to initiate breastfeeding than controls (96.15% vs 89.83%; 91.03% vs 77.02%, respectively; P < .05).

Conclusions:

Prenatal education has the potential to increase breastfeeding initiation among low-income women, especially non-Hispanic white and black. This study is limited as participants were from a single community, though Baby Talk was offered at 5 separate locations, and potentially from information bias as it was reliant on the accuracy of vital statistics data.
Comparison of mechanical and morphological properties of 3-D printed functional prototypes: Multi and hybrid blended thermoplastic matrix
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Singh Rupinder , Singh TP , Batish Ajay
Published: May 2020

This article reports the comparison for mechanical and morphological properties of 3-D printed tensile specimen with fused deposition modeling by using multiblended and hybrid blended polylactic acid (PLA) matrix. The multiblended PLA matrix was 3-D printed as tensile specimen (as per American Society for Testing and Materials 638 type IV) comprising of 06 layers (01 layer PLA + 01 layer of PLA + polyvinyl chloride + 02 layers of PLA + wood powder + 02 layers of PLA + Fe3O4) each with layer thickness of 0.53 mm. The hybrid blended PLA matrix was also 3-D printed with similar dimensions and printing conditions. The composition/proportion of hybrid blended and multimaterial blended matrix has been selected on the basis of similar melt flow index (MFI) range and the final matrix was compared on basis of equal number of layers (06), similar rheological range (MFI: 40–45 g/10 min) and volume of product (same dimension of prototype). The results of study suggested that the 3-D printed functional prototype of multiblended PLA matrix has better mechanical and morphological properties than hybrid blended PLA matrix. The peak strength and break strength of hybrid blend-based prototype were observed to be 29.56 MPa and 26.60 MPa, respectively, whereas for the multimaterial-based functional prototypes, it was 46.28 MPa and 41.65 MPa, respectively. The results are also supported with scanning electron microscopy-based images, 3-D rendered images, and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis analysis.
Founder-Controlled Family Firms, Overconfidence, and Corporate Social Responsibility Engagement: Evidence From Survey Data
Authors: Dick Markus , Wagner Eva , Pernsteiner Helmut
Published: May 2020

Drawing on (mostly) medium-sized and unlisted Polish firms, this study explores the influence of the interaction between founder-controlled family firms and managerial overconfidence on corporate social responsibility (CSR). We demonstrate that founder-controlled family firms show low levels of CSR engagement. This suggests that families try to limit CSR activities that could challenge their control and thus their socioemotional endowment. Moreover, overconfident executives in these firms tend to exhibit superior CSR performance. Consequently, the family’s preference for control can be mitigated by overconfident executives who underestimate the family’s control risk and focus on building reputation by acting socially responsible.
Partner notification and treatment outcomes among South African adolescents and young adults diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection via laboratory-based screening
Authors: Chitneni Pooja , Beksinska Mags , Dietrich Janan J , Jaggernath Manjeetha , Closson Kalysha , Smith Patricia , Lewis David A , Matthews Lynn T , Smit Jenni , Ndung’u Thumbi , Brockman Mark , Gray Glenda , Kaida Angela ,   on behalf of the AYAZAZI Research Team
Published: May 2020

Partner notification and treatment are essential components of sexually transmitted infection (STI) management, but little is known about such practices among adolescents and young adults. Using data from a prospective cohort study (AYAZAZI) of youth aged 16–24 years in Durban, South Africa, we assessed the STI care cascade across participant diagnosis, STI treatment, partner notification, and partner treatment; index recurrent STI and associated factors; and reasons for not notifying partner of STI. Participants completed laboratory-based STI screening ( Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis) at enrollment and at 12 months. Of the 37/216 participants with STI (17%), 27/37 (73%) were women and 10/37 (27%) were men. Median age was 19 years (IQR: 18–20). Of the participants with STI, 23/37 (62%) completed a Treatment and Partner Tracing Survey within 6 months of diagnosis. All survey participants reported completing STI treatment (100%), 17/23 (74%) notified a partner, and 6/23 (35%) reported partner treatment. Overall, 4/23 (11%) participants had 12-month recurrent C. trachomatis infection, with no association with partner notification or treatment. Stigma and lack of STI knowledge were reasons for not notifying partner of STI. STI partner notification and treatment is a challenge among youth. Novel strategies are needed to overcome barriers along the STI care cascade.
Analysis on new types of electric power businesses using a morphological box
Authors: Park Chankook , Lee Daeyoun
Published: May 2020

This study analyzed new electricity business cases with an aim to categorize them systematically based on theoretical grounds. The previous research studies on new businesses in the electric power sector lack the perspicuous theoretical basis for the criteria for classification and fail to examine a wide range of cases or the further possibility of new businesses development. Complementing the shortcomings, we adopted the morphological box for categorization to compare several business cases and draw the main types of businesses. It has revealed that utilities as well as residential, commercial, industrial customers also act as the main customers for the distributed resources while cooperation among different industries is growing rapidly, and local governments are actively involved in the business as the main providers. Also, cases related to consumer service innovation including consumer choice expansion and customized services are often seen. Furthermore, free services have emerged in the sector. This study has significance in that it successfully reassessed the theoretical arguments on business models and rearranged the parameters of the morphological box suitable for analyzing more than 100 business cases.
Accuracy of acupuncture point location among first-year acupuncture students: A pilot study evaluating the impact of training and use of an adjustable ruler
Authors: Godson Debra R , Wardle Jonathan L
Published: May 2020

Background

The proportional method of acupuncture point location (APL) currently taught at Endeavor College of Natural Health and advocated by the World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific (WPRO) was found to be imprecise and/or inaccurate in previous student studies. The ruler and elastic methods of APL were identified as more accurate or precise than the proportional method of APL but were not well received by student participants. Use of an adjustable ruler may overcome barriers to uptake of the more accurate APL methods. This pilot study was the first to evaluate the comparative accuracy of the adjustable ruler and the proportional methods of APL in first-year students at a major Australian acupuncture training college.

Methods

After 10 weeks of in-class instruction in both proportional and adjustable ruler methods of APL, student participants (n = 14) attempted location of three acupuncture points (LI10, SP6 and ST38) on a volunteer using both APL methods of interest. A self-administered questionnaire and lecturer field notes elucidated attitudes to implementation of both APL methods.

Results

Points marked using the adjustable ruler were closer to the correct location than those marked using the proportional method across all three acupuncture points. Students and lecturers rated the adjustable ruler more highly than the proportional method for ease of learning and ease of use.

Conclusion

Encouraging results with the adjustable ruler method warrant further larger scale studies. Use of the adjustable ruler method of APL should be considered for use in point location training at educational institutions teaching traditional acupuncture.
Does Foreign Direct Investment Enhance Economic Growth? Evidence from 30 Leading Global Economies
Authors: Okwu Andy Titus , Oseni Isiaq Olasunkanmi , Obiakor Rowland Tochukwu
Published: May 2020

Investment expenditure is a major component of aggregate macroeconomic variables in any economy, irrespective of the development status. This article employed relevant econometric methodology on panel data environment to analyze the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows on economic growth of 30 leading global economies during the period between 1998 and 2017. Other variables considered in the analysis were domestic credit to private sector (DCPS), gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), inflation–consumer prices index (INFPC), trade openness (TOPNESS), and youth unemployment (UEMPYT). The results showed mixed growth effects of the variables in general. Specifically, FDI exerted positive and significant effect on economic growth of the countries during the period. Therefore, this article concluded that FDI inflows enhanced economic growth and emphasized the need to foster more FDI-attracting policies as well as adequate GFCF to complement FDIs for sustainable economic growth potentials.

JEL Classification: C23, C33, C51, F21, F43, O47.
Performance of Identification of Seniors at Risk tool to predict unplanned revisits to the emergency department in 6 months was low in predictive accuracy: A single-center study
Authors: Demir Akça Ayse Semra , Kafadar Didem , Kahveci Fatih Ozan , Büyükuysal Mustafa Çağatay , Akca Fatih
Published: May 2020

Background:

Elderly people are at risk for mortality, functional decline, reattendance, and hospitalization after an emergency department visit.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of Identification of Seniors at Risk tool to predict unplanned readmissions after an emergency department visit.

Methods:

Records of patients aged ⩾65 years, who completed Identification of Seniors at Risk tool as they were being discharged from the emergency department, were analyzed. Patients were called back at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th, and 180th days after emergency department discharge to assess their readmission to emergency department. Descriptive statistics and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed.

Results:

This was a single-center study conducted with elderly patients with chronic diseases in a tertiary-level hospital within a period of 10 months with the follow-up calls. During the first month, 1792 patients were admitted to emergency department and 333 patients were aged ⩾65 years. Patients who completed Identification of Seniors at Risk tool as they were discharged from the emergency department were 170 out of 333. In 6 months, 71 patients out of 170, 36 men (50.7%) and 35 women (49.3%), were able to complete the follow-up. For predictive unplanned admissions, specificity and sensitivity at 1, 3, and 6 months were 40%, 40%, 38% and 69%, 78%, 67%, respectively, which demonstrates that sensitivity of Identification of Seniors at Risk tool was higher than its specificity. Although representing poor performance, Identification of Seniors at Risk tool was better at 3 months in predicting health risks for the elderly who have visited emergency department.

Conclusion:

Predictive ability of Identification of Seniors at Risk tool at the usual cutoff ⩾2 points to identify elderly at risk for revisiting emergency department for adverse health outcomes is limited. Multicentered studies, with standardized procedures and well-defined patient profile, are needed to improve the predictive ability of Identification of Seniors at Risk tool to screen elderly who require additional support after hospitalization.
An improved approach for normal-incidence sound transmission loss measurement using a four-microphone impedance tube
Authors: Li Zechao , Chen Sizhong , Wu Zhicheng , Yang Lin
Published: May 2020

The main aim of this study is to introduce an improved method for determining the sound properties of acoustic materials which is more precise than the common wavefield decomposition method and simpler than the common transfer matrix method. In the first part of the article, a group of formulae for calculating sound transmission loss is represented by combining the wavefield decomposition and transfer matrix methods. Subsequently, a formula for calculating sound absorption coefficients is derived from these formulae by definition. Furthermore, the present formulae are validated by comparing the experimental results achieved with the present formulae and those results obtained by other methods recorded in published articles. Eventually, it is demonstrated that the method can accurately measure the sound insulation performance of materials and the sound absorption properties of limp and lightweight materials.
Suicide: Years in the Making
Authors: Goulah-Pabst Dorothy
Published: May 2020

In this autoethnographic article, the author struggles to recognize the past in her present, through the discovery of loss and grief in the history of her family and herself. The story of her mother’s completed suicide in the author’s late teens in the context of multiple losses throughout life portray suicide as a possible cumulative emotional reaction to one’s life. The roles of attachment, risk, and resilience are also considered. Returning to the historical socialization of a family and the losses and grief experienced may help explain mental illness, ability, or inability to cope and risk and resilience through the generations.
Unraveling the Nexuses of Tourism, Terrorism, and Well-Being: Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Khan Asif , Bibi Sughra , Lyu Jiaying , Raza Asad , Hayat Hizar , Meo Muhammad Saeed
Published: May 2020

This study attempts to highlight the role of tourism and terrorism in shaping well-being measures and, to address the mechanism of how tourism and well-being measures can lead to terrorism in developing economies. Thus, it examines the causal relationship between well-being measures (overall well-being, social well-being, health well-being, and material well-being), tourism, terrorism, and inequality by focusing on Pakistan as a case study. We applied several time series techniques and procedures that include the bounds test, autoregressive distributed lag model mechanism, and Granger causality to analyze the relationships between the aforementioned variables. The findings suggest significant positive relationships between tourism and well-being measures. However, terrorism has a significant negative effect on well-being measures. Inequalities in the distributions of income and facilities have substantial negative effects on well-being measures and tourism; besides, it shows a significant positive association with terrorism. This study indicates that through effective tourism planning, policy makers can improve well-being measures, hence, leading to a reduction in terrorism. However, along with progress in well-being dimensions, policies, and long-term planning should be developed to ensure the equal distribution of income and facilities.
“You Mix Up the Thinking, and Then You Look at the Journey”: Pausing to Reflect on Masculinities in a South African Township
Authors: Pyke Antonella (Toni)
Published: May 2020

Changes in political, social, and economic structures in South Africa during the transition from apartheid to democratic governance in 1994 have put men and masculinity/ies under public and scholarly scrutiny. Attention has generally focused on the links between masculinity and violence, particularly among black men from low-income backgrounds, in attempts to understand the widespread levels of sexual violence throughout the country. Together, but in tension with the focus on men and violence, has been a literature that documents gender change in South Africa. This literature argues, for example, that men are embracing fatherhood and becoming more engaged in childcare. Nevertheless, such scholarship is overshadowed by a focus on men and violence. In this article, I reflect on the lives of a group of men living in contemporary Alexandra township, Johannesburg, South Africa, who are exploring what it means to be a man and the issues and challenges they face in their attempts to transition their masculine identities.
Ballistic performance of sandwich panels made of wood/plastic/metal and woven glass fiber
Authors: Sözen Eser , Gündüz Gökhan
Published: May 2020

This study investigated the ballistic properties of oriented strand board panels supported by different proportions of woven glass fiber and waste polypropylene. In the ballistic tests, galvanized metal plates of three different thicknesses (M1, M2, and M3) were used to absorb the initial velocity of the projectile. The materials forming the ballistic panel were arranged using the hand lay-up method. The waste polypropylene plates were melted on the upper and lower surfaces of the lay-up forming the panel. Production conditions were applied at 170‒175°C and 3.5‒4.0 N/mm2 for 10 min. Ballistic tests were performed on the panels according to the Level IIA category of the US National Institute of Justice standard. As a result of the ballistic test firing, the ballistic panel consisting of 1.5-mm-thick metal plate, 50 woven glass fibers, and OSB exhibited the best strength. As a result of the study, it was determined that the mechanical properties of the material that absorbed the initial velocity of the projectile were effective in the ballistic performance of the panels.
Dietary factors in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and multiple sclerosis: A comprehensive review
Authors: Valburg Claire , Sonti Anup , Stern Joel NH , Najjar Souhel , Harel Asaff
Published: May 2020

Background:

Dietary intervention in multiple sclerosis carries potential therapeutic implications. While studies utilizing animal models of multiple sclerosis (MS) have demonstrated intriguing findings, well-designed clinical trials are few in number.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to review the animal model and clinical literature regarding dietary factors in experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) and MS.

Methods:

This manuscript provides a comprehensive review of current animal model and clinical knowledge related to dietary factors in MS.

Results:

While there is currently little data for any specific diet in MS, there is growing evidence that certain dietary factors may influence the disease.

Conclusions:

Definitive information regarding dietary factors as a modifiable risk factor in MS will require larger randomized clinical trials.
Advising in language learning and the support of learners’ basic psychological needs: A self-determination theory perspective
Authors: Shelton-Strong Scott J.
Published: May 2020

In this article self-determination theory (SDT) is used as a framework to explore ways in which ‘advising in language learning’ (advising) can be understood to support language learners’ basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence and relatedness. These are defined in SDT as nutrients essential for integration, growth, healthy development and well-being (Ryan & Deci, 2017). SDT posits that social learning contexts in which learners’ basic psychological needs are supported facilitate and sustain autonomous functioning, more effective learning and performance, strengthen adaptability, promote awareness, and foster greater wellness (Reeve, 2016; Ryan & Deci, 2017; Vansteenkiste et al., 2019). While a growing body of research provides insight into ways advising promotes and is supportive of autonomous language learning and transformation (Kato & Mynard, 2016; Mynard, forthcoming), more specific studies are believed to be needed to develop a deeper understanding of the potential of its supportive role in this area. To address this gap, this study investigates how learners’ perceptions of their experiences in advising can be understood from an SDT perspective. Findings from a qualitative analysis of a self-reporting questionnaire suggests that participation in advising has potential to provide support for the satisfaction of language learners’ basic psychological needs. Drawing on the theoretical underpinnings of SDT to interpret this evidence within the context of one-to-one advising, the author argues that advising in language learning can play an important role in providing an autonomy-supportive climate which can foster satisfaction of learners’ needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness.
Sex work, advertorial news media and conditional acceptance
Authors: Easterbrook-Smith Gwyn
Published: May 2020

Media depictions of sex work and workers are a key site where perceptions of the sex industry are established and contested, particularly for audiences who may have little to no direct interaction with it otherwise. The presence of an advertorial framing or function of news media coverage of the sex industry has been identified in previous work. This article analyses news media coverage in New Zealand post-decriminalisation to consider how advertorial frames are used to construct indoor low-volume sex work as acceptable, and identify the conditions which are attached to this acceptability. The advertorial frames often emphasise the respectability and/or desirability of the clientele, potentially indicating to male readers that they may be a client-type man. Simultaneously, this construction of clients as desirable is used to underpin a discourse of authentic pleasure on the part of the workers. These narratives obscure the sexual and emotional labour involved in low-volume sex work, stripping it of its status as work, and positioning work-sex as akin to non-transactional sexual contact. Such renderings often draw meaning and legitimacy by shifting existing stereotypes about the sex industry as dangerous or damaging to other workers: typically those who charge less for their services or who are perceived to see more clients. This article concludes that the establishment of one kind of sex work as more acceptable at the expense of other sectors of the industry may serve to further entrench existing inequalities among people who work in the sex industry.
The fantasy of authenticity: understanding the paradox of retail gentrification in Seoul from a Lacanian perspective
Authors: Ji Myung In
Published: May 2020

Gentrification studies have well-documented how gentrifiers’ alternative consumption practices of seeking ‘authenticity’ lead to retail gentrification. However, they pay scant attention to the paradoxical subjects of gentrification who continue to take part in gentrification by consuming authenticity, even as they criticize the gentrification-driven loss of authenticity. Drawing upon Lacanian psychoanalysis and ethnographic research in one of the gentrifying neighborhoods in Seoul, South Korea, this article demonstrates how the fantasy of authenticity sustains this paradox while facilitating the continuing retail gentrification. As part of the process, various subjects of gentrification name the neighborhood differently – Seochon and Sejong Village – and claim that their own name is more authentic than the other. In and beyond this toponym debate, the fantasy of authenticity allows the subjects to constantly cross the borders of authentic/inauthentic and gentrifier/gentrified, and thus, reinvest their endless desire for ‘something more authentic’. Ultimately, by bridging psychoanalysis and gentrification studies, I argue that we, as the subjects of gentrification, should bear responsibility for our compelling desire for and fantasy of authenticity to challenge the cycle of the ongoing retail gentrification.
Meaning and context in political theory
Authors: Weale Albert
Published: May 2020

The two books offer a contextual reinterpretation of Rawlsian and post-Rawlsian liberalism. Nelson’s main thesis is that debates in liberal political theory re-enact theological debates about theodicy going back to the Pelagian controversy. This claim is criticized for its historical inaccuracy. Nelson’s invocation of theodicy as a refutation of luck egalitarianism and the Rawlsian rejection of desert rest on a claim of possibility that is too weak to uphold a plausible refutation. Forrester locates Rawls’s rejection of desert in the thinking of his contemporaries. She not only shows the development of Rawls’s thought but also details its broad influence. However, her thesis that the role of economic planning in a theory of justice remained undeveloped by Rawls ignores the intrinsic difficulties of designing a system of economic planning. The persistent antinomies of grace and free will in metaphysics, and of planning and the price mechanism in economics, show the continuing relevance of meaning beyond context.