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As the unique academic culture in Chinese philosophy and social sciences, researches on method framework provide an opportunity for understanding the thinking model and value orientation of the ancient eastern civilization. The field of information science has achieved fruitful results in the method framework research closely related to the unique discipline history and academic mission. The paper reviews information science method frameworks in China and presents their academic features from three aspects: 1. levels of the framework, 2. research strategies, and 3. essential techniques. At the same time, we summarize the value of this Chinese academic wisdom and the practical experience of information science in China to promote this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Differentiate high- versus low-volume radiologists who interpret neurological (Neuro) MRI or musculoskeletal (MSK) MRI and measure the proportion of Neuro and MSK MRIs read by low-volume radiologists.Methods: We queried the 2015 Medicare Physician and Other Supplier Public Use File for radiologists who submitted claims for Neuro or MSK MRIs. Radiologists were classified as high-volume versus low-volume based on their work relative value units (wRVUs) focus or volume of studies interpreted using three different methodologies: Method 1, percentage of wRVUs in Neuro or MSK MRI; Method 2, absolute number of Neuro or MSK MRIs interpreted; and Method 3, both percentage and absolute number. Multiple thresholds with each methodology were tested, and the percentage of Neuro or MSK MRIs interpreted by low-volume radiologists was calculated for each threshold.Results: With Method 1, 33% of Neuro MRI and 50% of MSK MRI studies were interpreted by a radiologist whose wRVUs in Neuro or MSK MRI were less than 20% (Method 1). With Method 2, 22% of Neuro MRIs and 37% of MSK MRIs were interpreted by radiologists who read fewer than the mean number of Neuro or MSK MRIs interpreted by an "average full-time radiologist" whose wRVUs in Neuro or MSK MRI were approximately 20%. With Method 3, 38% of Neuro MRIs and 57% of MSK MRIs were interpreted by "low-volume" radiologists. If instead a 50% wRVU threshold is used for Methods One, Two, and Three, then 70%, 58%, and 77% of Neuro MRIs and 86%, 80%, and 90% of MSK MRIs are read by low-volume radiologists.Discussion: A large number of radiologists read a low volume of Neuro or MSK MRIs; these low-volume Neuro or MSK MRI radiologists read a substantial portion of Neuro or MSK MRIs. It is unknown which of the methods for distinguishing low-volume radiologists, combined with which threshold, may best correlate with high-performing or low-performing radiologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the development of a participatory learning and action research approach for integrated soil fertility management. The methodology research was conducted in three sites within the context of research and development services in sub-Saharan Africa. The key elements of the approach are described and factors determining the methodology development process are analysed. Farmer learning takes place at the individual and communicative level. Individual learning is based on farm mapping and farmer experimentation, while communicative learning takes place during the four distinct phases of the approach when farmers exchange insights and interact with the field team. The paper further discusses major learning points in facilitation of farmer learning and analyses major implications and issues in extending the participatory learning and action research approach. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]