bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of significant traumatic brain injury in adults with minor head injury taking direct oral anticoagulants: a cohort study and updated meta-analysis
Authors: Fuller Gordon , Sabir Lisa , Evans Rachel , Bradbury Daniel , Kuczawski Maxine , Mason Suzanne M
Published: September 2020

Background

Patients taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) commonly undergo CT head imaging after minor head injury, regardless of symptoms or signs. However, the risk of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) in such patients is unclear, and further research has been recommended by the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence head injury guideline group.

Methods

An observational cohort study was performed in the UK South Yorkshire major trauma centre between 26 June and 3 September 2018. Adult patients taking DOACs with minor head injury were prospectively identified, with case ascertainment supplemented by screening of radiology and ED information technology systems. Clinical and outcome data were subsequently collated from patient records. The primary endpoint was adverse outcome within 30 days, comprising: neurosurgery, ICH or death due to head injury. A previously published meta-analysis was updated with the current results and the findings of other recent studies.

Results

148 patients with minor head injury were included (GCS 15, n=107, 72%; GCS 14, n=41, 28%). Patients were elderly (median 82 years) and most frequently injured from ground level falls (n=142, 96%). Overall risk of adverse outcome was 3.4% (5/148, 95% CI 1.4% to 8.0%). Five patients had ICH, of whom one died within 30 days. One patient was treated with prothrombin complex concentrate but no patient received critical care management or underwent neurosurgical intervention. Updated random effects meta-analysis, including the current results and two further recent studies, showed a weighted overall risk of adverse outcome of 3.2% (n=29/787, 95% CI 2.0% to 4.4%).

Conclusions

The risk of adverse outcome following mild head injury in patients taking DOACs appears low. These findings would support shared patient-clinician decision making, rather than routine imaging, following minor head injury while taking DOACs.
Nurse practitioner administered point-of-care ultrasound compared with X-ray for children with clinically non-angulated distal forearm fractures in the ED: a diagnostic study
Authors: Snelling Peter J , Jones Philip , Keijzers Gerben , Bade David , Herd David W , Ware Robert S
Published: September 2020

Background

Paediatric distal forearm fractures are a common ED presentation. They can be diagnosed with point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) as an alternative to X-rays. Given that ED nurse practitioners (NPs) are relied on for the diagnosis of paediatric fractures, it is important to describe the diagnostic accuracy of NP-conducted POCUS versus X-ray.

Methods

This prospective diagnostic study was conducted in a tertiary paediatric hospital in Queensland, Australia, between February 2018 and April 2019. Participants were children aged 4–16 years with a clinically non-angulated, suspected distal forearm fracture. Diagnosis from 6-view NP-administered POCUS of the distal radius and ulna was compared against the reference standard of 2-view X-ray. Each patient received both imaging modalities. Overall forearm diagnosis was classified as ‘no’, ‘buckle’ or ‘other’ fracture for both modalities. The primary outcome was diagnostic accuracy for ‘any’ fracture (‘buckle’ and ‘other’ fractures combined). Secondary outcomes included diagnostic accuracy for ‘other’ fractures versus ‘buckle’ and ‘no’ fractures combined, and pain, imaging duration and preference for modality.

Results

Of 204 recruited patients, 129 had X-ray-diagnosed forearm fractures. The sensitivity and specificity for NP-administered POCUS were 94.6% (95% CI 89.2% to 97.3%) and 85.3% (95% CI 75.6% to 91.6%), respectively. ‘Other’ fractures (mostly cortical breach fractures), when compared with ‘buckle’/ ‘no’ fractures, had sensitivity 81.0% (95% CI 69.1% to 89.1%) and specificity 95.9% (95% CI 91.3% to 98.1%). Pain and imaging duration were clinically similar between modalities. There was a preference for POCUS by patients, parents and NPs.

Conclusions

NP-administered POCUS had clinically acceptable diagnostic accuracy for paediatric patients presenting with non-angulated distal forearm injuries. This included good sensitivity for diagnosis of ‘any’ fracture and good specificity for diagnosis of cortical breach fractures alone. Given the preference for POCUS, and the lack of difference in pain and duration between modalities, future research should consider functional outcomes comparing POCUS with X-ray in this population in a randomised controlled trial.
National trends in chest pain visits in US emergency departments (2006–2016)
Authors: Aalam Ahmad A , Alsabban Awad , Pines Jesse M
Published: September 2020

Background

Chest pain is a common complaint in EDs. In this study, we describe demographic, care and cost trends in US ED visits for chest pain over 11 years.

Methods

This is a retrospective descriptive study of trends in utilisation and care of ED chest pain visits from 2006 to 2016) using data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project database, a national sample of US ED visits and hospitalisations.

Results

From 2006 to 2016, there were 42.48 million chest pain visits. Visits per 100 000 persons increased from 1140.4 in 2006 to 1611.7 in 2016 (p<0.001). The chest pain inpatient admission rate declined from 19% in 2006 to 3.9% in 2016 (p<0.001); associated inpatient hospitalisation costs declined from $10.4 billion (2006–2008) to $6.2 billion (2012–2014).

Conclusion

From 2006 to 2016, ED visits in the USA for chest pain increased with a significant decline in admission rates and inpatient hospitalisation costs.
Improving the performance of peripheral arterial tonometry-based testing for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Ioachimescu Octavian C , Dholakia Swapan A , Venkateshiah Saiprakash B , Fields Barry , Samarghandi Arash , Anand Neesha , Eisenstein Rina , Ciavatta Mary-Margaret , Allam J Shirine , Collop Nancy A
Published: September 2020

Outside sleep laboratory settings, peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT, eg, WatchPat) represents a validated modality for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We have shown before that the accuracy of home sleep apnea testing by WatchPat 200 devices in diagnosing OSA is suboptimal (50%–70%). In order to improve its diagnostic performance, we built several models that predict the main functional parameter of polysomnography (PSG), Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI). Participants were recruited in our Sleep Center and underwent concurrent in-laboratory PSG and PAT recordings. Statistical models were then developed to predict AHI by using robust functional parameters from PAT-based testing, in concert with available demographic and anthropometric data, and their performance was confirmed in a random validation subgroup of the cohort. Five hundred synchronous PSG and WatchPat sets were analyzed. Mean diagnostic accuracy of PAT was improved to 67%, 81% and 85% in mild, moderate-severe or no OSA, respectively, by several models that included participants’ age, gender, neck circumference, body mass index and the number of 4% desaturations/hour. WatchPat had an overall accuracy of 85.7% and a positive predictive value of 87.3% in diagnosing OSA (by predicted AHI above 5). In this large cohort of patients with high pretest probability of OSA, we built several models based on 4% oxygen desaturations, neck circumference, body mass index and several other variables. These simple models can be used at the point-of-care, in order to improve the diagnostic accuracy of the PAT-based testing, thus ameliorating the high rates of misclassification for OSA presence or disease severity.
Bi-allelic SHOC1 loss-of-function mutations cause meiotic arrest and non-obstructive azoospermia
Authors: Yao Chencheng , Yang Chao , Zhao Liangyu , Li Peng , Tian Ruhui , Chen Huixing , Guo Ying , Huang Yuhua , Zhi Erlei , Zhai Jing , Sun Hongfang , Zhang Jianxiong , Hong Yan , Zhang Li , Ji Zhiyong , Zhang Feng , Zhou Zhi , Li Zheng
Published: September 2020

Background

The genetic causes of human idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) with meiotic arrest remain unclear.

Methods

Two Chinese families with infertility participated in the study. In family 1, two brothers were affected by idiopathic NOA. In family 2, the proband was diagnosed with idiopathic NOA, and his elder sister suffered from infertility. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was conducted in the two patients in family 1, the proband in family 2 and 362 additional sporadic patients with idiopathic NOA. Sanger sequencing was used to verify the WES results. Periodic acid–Schiff (PAS), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and meiotic chromosomal spread analyses were carried out to evaluate the stage of spermatogenesis arrested in the affected cases.

Results

We identified compound heterozygous loss of function (LoF) variants of SHOC1 (c.C1582T:p.R528X and c.231_232del:p.L78Sfs*9, respectively) in both affected cases with NOA from family 1. In family 2, homozygous LoF variant in SHOC1 (c.1194delA:p.L400Cfs*7) was identified in the siblings with infertility. PAS, IHC and meiotic chromosomal spread analyses demonstrated that the spermatogenesis was arrested at zygotene stage in the three patients with NOA. Consistent with the autosomal recessive mode of inheritance, all of these SHOC1 variants were inherited from heterozygous parental carriers. Intriguingly, WES of 362 sporadic NOA cases revealed one additional NOA case with a bi-allelic SHOC1 LoF variant (c.1464delT:p.D489Tfs*13).

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report identifying SHOC1 as the causative gene for human NOA. Furthermore, our study showed an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance in the NOA caused by SHOC1 deficiency.
Delineation of a new fibrillin-2-opathy with evidence for a role of FBN2 in the pathogenesis of carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Peeters Silke , Decramer Arne , Cain Stuart Alan , Houpt Peter , Verstreken Frederik , Noyez Jan , Hermans Christophe , Jacobs Werner , Lammens Martin , Fransen Erik , Kumar Ajay Anand , Vandeweyer Geert , Loeys Bart , Van Hul Wim , Baldock Clair , Boudin Eveline , Mortier Geert
Published: September 2020

Background

Although carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common form of peripheral entrapment neuropathy, its pathogenesis remains largely unknown. An estimated heritability index of 0.46 and an increased familial occurrence indicate that genetic factors must play a role in the pathogenesis.

Methods and results

We report on a family in which CTS occurred in subsequent generations at an unusually young age. Additional clinical features included brachydactyly and short Achilles tendons resulting in toe walking in childhood. Using exome sequencing, we identified a heterozygous variant (c.5009T>G; p.Phe1670Cys) in the fibrillin-2 (FBN2) gene that co‐segregated with the phenotype in the family. Functional assays showed that the missense variant impaired integrin-mediated cell adhesion and migration. Moreover, we observed an increased transforming growth factor-β signalling and fibrosis in the carpal tissues of affected individuals. A variant burden test in a large cohort of patients with CTS revealed a significantly increased frequency of rare (6.7% vs 2.5%–3.4%, p<0.001) and high-impact (6.9% vs 2.7%, p<0.001) FBN2 variants in patient alleles compared with controls.

Conclusion

The identification of a novel FBN2 variant (p.Phe1670Cys) in a unique family with early onset CTS, together with the observed increased frequency of rare and high-impact FBN2 variants in patients with sporadic CTS, strongly suggest a role of FBN2 in the pathogenesis of CTS.
Exposure to tobacco imagery in popular films and the risk of ever smoking among children in southern India
Authors: Kulkarni Muralidhar M , Kamath Veena Ganesh , Kamath Asha , Lewis Sarah , Bogdanovica Ilze , Bains Manpreet , Cranwell Jo , Fogarty Andrew , Arora Monika , Nazar Gaurang P , Ballal Kirthinath , Bhagwath Rohith , Britton John
Published: September 2020

Background

Exposure to smoking in films is a recognised cause of smoking uptake among children. In India, in an attempt to protect children, films containing smoking are required to include tobacco control messaging including audiovisual disclaimers, on-screen health warnings when tobacco imagery is displayed and antitobacco ‘health spots’ before and during the film. We report a study of the association between ever smoking and exposure to tobacco imagery in locally popular films among children in Udupi district of Karnataka state in southern India.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey of all students in grades 6–8 in schools in the Udupi district ascertained smoking status and potential confounders of smoking uptake, and whether children had seen any of 27 locally popular films we had coded and found to contain imagery of actual or implied tobacco use. Ever-smoking status was defined as any reported smoking of cigarettes, beedis or other tobacco products currently or at any time in the past. Independent effects on ever-smoking status were estimated using multiple logistic regression.

Results

Of 46 706 students enrolled in grades 6–8 in 914 participating schools, 39 282 (84.1%) provided questionnaire responses sufficiently complete for analysis. Ever smoking was reported by 914 (2.3%) participants and in a mutually adjusted model was significantly related to age, male sex, living in a home where smoking is allowed, having parents or siblings who smoke, low paternal education, low levels of family wealth, low self-esteem, rebelliousness and poor school performance. After allowing for these effects, the odds of ever smoking were not increased among students who had seen any of the listed films containing tobacco imagery when included in the analysis as a binary exposure (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.4 to 2.0), and decreased in relation to level of exposure graded into tertiles of tobacco intervals seen.

Conclusions

In this cross-sectional study, children in southern India who had seen films containing tobacco imagery are no more likely to smoke than those who had not, indicating that the tobacco control messaging mandated by Indian law may be attenuating the effect of tobacco imagery in films on smoking uptake.
Higher blood glucose impairs cardiac autonomic modulation in fasting and after carbohydrate overload in adults
Authors: Oliveira Caroline Maria , Ghezzi Ana Carolina , Cambri Lucieli Teresa
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to assess whether the blood glucose levels influence cardiac autonomic modulation under fasting and after carbohydrate overload conditions. Participants (n = 108) were separated into lower blood glucose and higher blood glucose groups, based on the median (90.5 mg·dL−1) of fasting glucose assessed. The SD2, SDNN, LF indices, and LF/HF increased, and HF decreased after dextrose overload compared with fasting (p < 0.05). Body mass (78.9 vs 69.7 kg), abdominal circumference (90.2 vs 82.2 cm), systolic (113 vs 108 mm Hg) and diastolic (72 vs 67 mm Hg) blood pressure were higher (p < 0.05) in the higher blood glucose group. Heart rate variability (HRV) indices (SD1: 21.0 vs 26.5; SD2: 76.8: vs 86.1; RMSSD: 28.7 vs 37.5; SDNN: 56.1 vs 62.5 ms; pNN50: 10.6 vs 18.9%, HF: 328.4 vs 506.0; LF: 982.8 vs 1259.0 ms2), and the area under the curve of these indices after dextrose overload were lower in the higher blood glucose group (p < 0.05). Additionally, glycemia after dextrose overload was correlated with HRV indices (ρ = –0.216 to −0.273, p < 0.05). Individuals with higher blood glucose, even in the normality range, showed impairment in the cardiac autonomic modulation both at fasting and after carbohydrate overload.

Novelty: Higher fasting blood glucose impairs cardiac autonomic modulation. Carbohydrate overload impairs cardiac autonomic modulation.
Preparation of 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives via supported and unsupported phosphinium dibromide reagents
Authors: Lashkari Mojtaba , Roudbaraki Seyyed Jalal , Ghashang Majid
Published: September 2020

In this work, the synthesis of 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives using triphenylphosphine dibromide/triethylamine (Ph3P/Br2/Et3N), 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphaneyl)ethane/2Br2/Et3N, and nano-silica-anchored PPh2/Br2/Et3N systems is described. The method allows the preparation of 1,3,4-oxadiazoles with a broad substrate scope from easily accessible materials.
Simulated instream restoration structures offer smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) swimming and energetic advantages at high flow velocities
Authors: Strailey Katherine K. , Osborn Ryan T. , Tinoco Rafael O. , Cienciala Piotr , Rhoads Bruce L. , Suski Cory D.
Published: September 2020

Restoration practices aimed at fish habitat enhancement often include installation of instream structures. However, mixed outcomes have been reported regarding structure effectiveness, while mechanisms underlying success remain unclear. The interactions between fish and flow conditions generated by instream structures and their subsequent impact on fish energetics may provide some insight. This study seeks to quantify how restoration structures, simulated by cylinders in three orientations, alter the energetics and swimming stability of smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu). Accelerometers measured swimming stability while a respirometer measured energy expenditure at multiple velocities. Particle image velocimetry was used to characterize flow fields behind structures. Structures generated flow conditions that benefited fish energetically. Fish had a smoother gait and expended less energy when swimming near a structure, regardless of its orientation. Benefits varied with flow conditions; reductions in energy expenditure were especially apparent at high flow velocities. Results suggest that restoration structures may be most energetically beneficial in stream systems with consistently high velocities and inform restoration by indicating flow conditions in which structures provide the greatest energetic benefits for fish.
Condensation of a scalar field non-minimally coupled to gravity in a cosmological context
Authors: Ghalee Amir
Published: September 2020

We present a new mechanism to condense a scalar field coupled to the Gauss–Bonnet term. We propose a scenario in which the condensed state will emerge from the background energy density in the late-Universe. During the radiation and dust-dominated eras, the energy density of the scalar field, [Formula: see text], decreases at a slower rate than the background density. Eventually, [Formula: see text] dominates over the energy density of dust and the scalar field could be condensed. In the condensed phase, we have the de Sitter phase for the universe with [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we study the cosmological perturbations of the model and explore predictions of the model.
Non-local symmetries and the nth finite symmetry transformations for the (2+1)-dimensional Korteweg–de Vries equation
Authors: Hao Xiazhi , Li Xiaoyan
Published: September 2020

Non-local symmetries in forms of square spectral function and residue over the (2+1)-dimensional Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) equation are studied in some detail. Then, we present [Formula: see text]-soliton solution to this equation with the help of symmetry transformation.
Detecting community structures in weighted social networks based on genetic algorithm
Authors: Yu Kai , Wu Lei
Published: September 2020

Detecting communities is one of the important research directions in social network analysis currently. However, complexity and size of real world networks makes it practically impossible to develop a unique mechanism for finding communities, which will show satisfactory results in almost any network. In this paper, we have proposed a genetic method that can detect communities in social networks extracted from the Web. Advantage of the method is that we can set an upper boundary to the number of clusters in the network. This is achieved by means of information centrality. When we choose top [Formula: see text] nodes, which shall be used in the algorithm iteration, we know that the number of clusters in the network is less that the number [Formula: see text]. Yet another advantage of the method is that it is fast with computational complexity equals [Formula: see text]. This is a huge improvement compared to most algorithms with convergence speed [Formula: see text]. The experimental results verify the superior performance of the proposed method.
Performance Analysis of Deterministic Finite Automata and Turing Machine Using JFLAP Tool
Authors: Devi B. Padmini , Aruna S. K. , Sindhanaiselvan K.
Published: September 2020

In real life, the increased data accessing speed and data storage ability is required by most of the machinery fields. However, the real-world problems can be studied effectively with the combination of scientific computational techniques with the mathematical models. Automata theory is known to be the popular mathematical model. Towards most of the software and hardware related applications, the computational methods are analyzed and designed using significant automata theory concepts (likely, pushdown automata (PDA), Turing machines (TMs) and finite automata (FA)). Hence, the conventional lecture-driven style has attracted the reflective preferences of learners using these abstract natured concepts. But the lecture-driven teaching style has less motivated the computer engineering learners. In order to learn automata theory and computational models, we introduce the PDA and TM in a virtual platform. However, this work has motivated the improvement of longitudinal experimental validation and learning using the modern technology. Java Formal Languages and Automata Package (JFLAP) tool is used to write our simulators in JAVA language and the results are obtained from each machine through simulating the input strings.
Interpolative fusions
Authors: Kruckman Alex , Tran Chieu-Minh , Walsberg Erik
Published: September 2020

We define the interpolative fusion [Formula: see text] of a family [Formula: see text] of first-order theories over a common reduct [Formula: see text], a notion that generalizes many examples of random or generic structures in the model-theoretic literature. When each [Formula: see text] is model-complete, [Formula: see text] coincides with the model companion of [Formula: see text]. By obtaining sufficient conditions for the existence of [Formula: see text], we develop new tools to show that theories of interest have model companions.
Cosmological inflationary studying around the type IV singularity within f(T) gravity
Authors: Ganiou M. G. , Houndjo M. J. S. , Abadji H. F. , Tossa J.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we investigate the effects of Type IV singularity through [Formula: see text] gravity description of inflationary Universe, where [Formula: see text] denotes the torsion scalar. With the Friedmann equations of the theory, we reconstruct a [Formula: see text] model according to a given Hubble rate susceptible to describe the inflationary era near the Type IV singularity. One obtains an interesting well-known [Formula: see text] model but with additional constant parameter [Formula: see text] staying as the Type IV singularity contribution. Moreover, we calculate the Hubble flow parameters in order to determine the dynamical evolution of the cosmological system. The results show that some of the Hubble flow parameters are small near the Type IV singularity and become singular at Type IV singularity, indicating that a dynamical instability of the cosmological system occurs at that point. This means that the dynamical cosmological evolution up to that point ceases to be the final attractor since the system is abruptly interrupted. Furthermore, by considering the [Formula: see text] trace anomaly equation, the previous result on the Type IV singularity is consolidated by the conditional instability coming from the de Sitter inflationary description of the reconstructed [Formula: see text] model. The model leads to instability strongly governed by the Type IV singularity parameter [Formula: see text] is viewed as the graceful exit from inflation. Our theoretical [Formula: see text] description based on slow-roll parameters not only confirms some observational data on spectral index and the scalar-to-tensor ratio from Planck data and BICEP[Formula: see text]/Keck-Array data, but also shows the property of [Formula: see text] gravity in describing the early and late-time evolution of our Universe.
Quantitative evaluation modeling of mobile Ad Hoc network communication service availability under failure
Authors: Fu Yanfang , Su Yichang , Wang Zan , Guo Dengdeng , Dai Fei , Zhong Lianjiong , Wei Jianing
Published: September 2020

The availability of network communication services is an important evaluation standard to measure the ability of the network to meet the user’s business needs. The current related research mostly focuses on the evaluation of network reliability, which cannot reflect the logical relationship between failure/maintenance and network performance parameters. Mobile Ad Hoc Network is a multi-hop, centerless and energy-constrained distributed system. Due to the dynamic change of communication environment and the instability of wireless link, Ad Hoc Network is facing great challenges in service availability. In this thesis, a fault-based quantitative evaluation model of traffic availability in Ad Hoc networks is proposed. By studying the multi-state Markov fault model of communication networks and the performance analysis of delay index based on CSMA∖CA protocol, the quantitative evaluation of traffic availability in Ad Hoc networks is realized. And the availability of tactical unit network under different typical network configuration conditions is analyzed through experiments.
Current methods of electroporation for efficient vaccination uptake
Authors: Littlecreek Sunshine , Firestein Bonnie L.
Published: September 2020

With the resurgence of illnesses, such as measles, it is of utmost importance that a high percentage of the local and global population be vaccinated. Diseases, such as measles, HepB, Hib, and others, are suppressed when 93%–95% of a population has been vaccinated against them, generating herd immunity. Lack of vaccination can lead to lifelong consequences. Barriers to vaccination include costs, lack of healthcare worker knowledge, reliance on cold chain storage, age, and personal beliefs. Vaccinations are usually administered as subcutaneous or intramuscular injections, though some oral vaccines exist. The use of intradermal or intramuscular electroporation (ID-EP and IM-EP) as an adjuvant has demonstrated benefits over traditional vaccination methods, while also having some issues, which require careful consideration. Issues for consideration include a lack of standardized equipment and pulsing protocols while benefits include dose sparing, long-term immunogenicity, and higher titer levels after a single dose compared to the gold standard. ID-EP has been shown to have better transfection rates over IM-EP, while IM-EP has demonstrated faster seroconversion rates (SRs) over IM injection alone. Improvements such as standardizing equipment with larger injection volumes, multiple EP site locations and/or disposable, predosed, lyophilized vaccine cartridges could contribute to more rapid deployment of vaccines without relying on cold chain storage and trained healthcare workers, at a reduced cost while still providing adequate levels of immunity against disease.
Study on Integrated Workflow Development and Presentation of Fangcang Shelter Hospitals in COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Li Na , Pan Jie
Published: September 2020

Fangcang shelter hospital, which serves as hospital for isolation, treatment and disease monitoring of patients with mild symptoms, has made significant achievements in the prevention and control of COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, due to the urgency and innovation of the task, managers lack clear management of the operation task flow. This paper presents some experiences learnt from the management of Fangcang shelter hospitals, which adopted the LEAN methodology to develop an integrated workflow system with clear responsibilities and process standards as a framework for performance improvement, involving nurses, patient, physicians, clerical staff, logistics staff, and other inter professional staff as well as managers and support staff.
The Value of Voice
Authors: Neal Lisa , Notess Mark
Published: September 2020

Many online courses provide text and optional audio of someone reading the text in a well-modulated voice. Can this audio track deliver any pedagogical value?
Course Titles for Dummies
Authors: Neal Lisa
Published: September 2020

What if course titles tried to grab you, like book titles, but remained usefully descriptive?Title-related issues loom even larger for online courses, since there may be fewer contexts for understanding course titles when a student isn't on campus. Also it may be more important to market to online students since they are likely to study part-time and be busy with other commitments.
Ubiquity symposium 'What is computation?'
Authors: Bajcsy Ruzena
Published: September 2020

In this sixth article in the ACM Ubiquity symposium,What is Computation? Ruzena Bajcsy of the University of California-Berkeley explains that computation can be seen as a transformation or function of information. --Editor
Ubiquity symposium 'What is computation?'
Authors: Bacon Dave
Published: September 2020

In this seventh article in the ACM Ubiquity symposium, What is Computation?, Dave Bacon of University of Washington explains why he thinks discussing the question is as important as thinking about what it means to be self-aware. —Editor
Ubiquity symposium: The science in computer science
Authors: Carlson Shawn
Published: September 2020

The goal of the LabRats Science Education Program is to inspire secondary school-age students from all backgrounds to love learning about science and technology. Shawn Carlson, the Executive Director of LabRats, presents five key insights that can be integrated into any science and technology program. The purpose of which is to overhaul students' attitudes and motivation to learn. Carlson also offers detailed suggestions on how educators can use these insights to inspire their students to become lifelong learners of science and technology.
The Rock Stars of eLearning: An interview with Clark Quinn
Authors: Raymer Rick
Published: September 2020

Leveraging the powers of technology and science, the amazing Clark Quinn performs incredible feats in learning and performance.
The Rock Stars of eLearning: An interview with Megan Bowe
Authors: Raymer Rick
Published: September 2020

The path along the future of training and development can be murky. Visionaries like Megan Bowe are mapping this brave frontier.
The Rock Stars of eLearning: An interview with Judy Katz
Authors: Raymer Rick
Published: September 2020

Look at your feet. What do you see? Perhaps you see the power to move, but beyond that, it could be a reminder of the power to be moved. In this installment of "The Rock Stars of eLearning," Judy Katz discusses her passions, advice for instructional designers, and how the eLearning industry needs to evolve.
Provision Mapping for Online Learning Environments: Is it possible and can it work?
Authors: Devi Anita
Published: September 2020

In this case study, Anita Devi profiles the approach adopted by an online academy, Nisai Virtual Academy (UK), to introduce provision management, provision mapping, and provision maps in order to enhance the learning environment for the learner and to ensure it is used to its maximum potential.
How To Apply Reflective Practice when Teaching Online
Authors: Gilbert Joan
Published: September 2020

The human brain takes in information, process it, learns, and grows from it. Here's how psychology principles and information processing can collaborate to achieve optimum results in e-learning and e-teaching.
South by Southwest 2018: Reflections for e-Learn Magazine
Authors: Carr-Chellman Alison
Published: September 2020

This multimedia article offers some reflections on the South by Southwest 2018 conference for e-Learn Magazine readers/watchers. The South by Southwest conference is held in Austin each spring, and represents the best of the arts and technology melding with high profile speakers such as Bernie Sanders, Melinda Gates, and Bill Hader. This article reviews several days of experiences at SXSW EDU and SXSW including interviews, information from the EDU Playground, and SXSW exposition show floor.
Mindful Online Teaching and Learning: A Conversation with Tiffany Guske
Authors: Venable Melissa
Published: September 2020

The 34th Annual Distance Teaching and Learning Conference featured a unique kickoff thanks to a mindfulness exercise led by Tiffany Guske. In calling all attendees to set an intention for their time at the conference, she helped them establish the foundation for a meaningful and productive experience. This post-conference interview with Tiffany provides a more in-depth look at the concept of mindfulness and specific strategies for applying this approach to our online teaching practice.
Animations to Assist Learning Some Key Computer Science Topics
Authors: Balci Osman , Gilley William S. , Adams Robin J. , Tunar Emre , Barnette N. Dwight
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the work presented herein is to provide multimedia course material with animations to assist learning some key Computer Science topics on the World Wide Web. The work is presented in eight learning modules: Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, Data Structures, Machine Architecture, Number Systems, Operating Systems, Programming Languages, and Software Engineering. Each module consists of a set of lessons with animations and interactive components including review questions. The work consists of 44 animations, 2,008 files, and 255 folders, totaling 15.5MB. The learning modules enable educators to provide a learning environment beyond the bounds of the classroom either to supplement their in-class teaching or as part of a distance learning course. The animations and interactive components are expected to improve the effectiveness of learning the covered topics.
“Reports of My Death Were Greatly Exaggerated”: Behavior Genetics in the Postgenomic Era
Authors: Harden K. Paige
Published: September 2020

Behavior genetics studies how genetic differences among people contribute to differences in their psychology and behavior. Here, I describe how the conclusions and methods of behavior genetics have evolved in the postgenomic era in which the human genome can be directly measured. First, I revisit the first law of behavioral genetics stating that everything is heritable, and I describe results from large-scale meta-analyses of twin data and new methods for estimating heritability using measured DNA. Second, I describe new methods in statistical genetics, including genome-wide association studies and polygenic score analyses. Third, I describe the next generation of work on gene × environment interaction, with a particular focus on how genetic influences vary across sociopolitical contexts and exogenous environments. Genomic technology has ushered in a golden age of new tools to address enduring questions about how genes and environments combine to create unique human lives.
The Science of Meaning in Life
Authors: King Laura A. , Hicks Joshua A.
Published: September 2020

Meaning in life has long been a mystery of human existence. In this review, we seek to demystify this construct. Focusing on the subjective experience of meaning in life, we review how it has been measured and briefly describe its correlates. Then we review evidence that meaning in life, for all its mystery, is a rather commonplace experience. We then define the construct and review its constituent facets: comprehension/coherence, purpose, and existential mattering/significance. We review the many experiences that have been shown to enhance meaning in life and close by considering important remaining research questions about this fascinating topic.
Trade-Offs in Choice
Authors: Shaddy Franklin , Fishbach Ayelet , Simonson Itamar
Published: September 2020

To explain trade-offs in choice, researchers have proposed myriad phenomena and decision rules, each paired with separate theories and idiosyncratic vocabularies. Yet most choice problems are ultimately resolved with one of just two types of solutions: mixed or extreme. For example, people adopt mixed solutions for resolving trade-offs when they allow exercising to license indulgence afterward (balancing between goals), read different literary genres (variety seeking), and order medium-sized coffees (the compromise effect). By contrast, when people adopt extreme solutions for resolving these exact same trade-offs, they exhibit highlighting, consistency seeking, and compromise avoidance, respectively. Our review of the choice literature first illustrates how many seemingly unrelated phenomena actually share the same underlying psychology. We then identify variables that promote one solution versus the other. These variables, in turn, systematically influence which of opposite choice effects arise (e.g., highlighting versus balancing). Finally, we demonstrate how several mistakes people purport to make can potentially instead be reinterpreted as mixed solutions for resolving trade-offs. We conclude with guidance for distinguishing mistakes from mixed solutions.
Optimal Prestress Investigation on Tensegrity Structures Using Artificial Fish Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Feng Xiaodong , Zhang Wanpeng , Luo Yaozhi , Zlotnik Sergio
Published: September 2020

To obtain the optimal uniform prestress of a tensegrity structure with geometric configuration given, a novel method is developed for prestress design of tensegrity structures by utilizing the artificial fish swarm algorithm (AFSA). In the beginning, the form‐finding process is implemented by solving a linear homogeneous system concerning the self‐equilibrium system. The issue is subsequently performed as a minimum problem by regulating the value of an objective function where the unilateral condition and the stress uniformity condition are entirely considered. The AFSA is adopted to search for the global minimum, leading to a set of initial prestresses that guarantee all the above conditions. Two illustrative examples have been fully studied to prove the accuracy and efficiency of the presented approach in prestress design of tensegrities according to the practical requirements. Furthermore, the numerical examples investigated in this paper confirm that the AFSA has explicit advantages of rapid convergence and overcoming the local minima.
Attributes-Based Decision Making for Selection of Requirement Elicitation Techniques Using the Analytic Network Process
Authors: Li Jinyu , Ullah Asif , Li Jun , Nazir Shah , Khan Habib Ullah , Ur Rehman Hanif , Haq Amin Ul
Published: September 2020

Requirement engineering is the first phase of software engineering. In requirement engineering, the first phase is requirement elicitation (RE), which is the most critical and error-prone activity. In this phase, the requirements are extracted from various sources; after extraction, they are analyzed and documented for a specific purpose of software development. In RE, process requirements from stakeholders are gathered, upon which the entire software product failure and success are dependent. In order to accomplish the goal of requirement elicitation, various techniques are used. However, the selection of these techniques is a very challenging task, as one technique may suit a situation but may not be suited for other situations. Besides this, project attributes such as documentation culture of organization, degree of relationship among stakeholders, and familiarity to domain also have a great impact on the process of technique selection. The reason is that there is no empirical value of the techniques that provide help in techniques selection to analyze the basis software project attributes. This study proposed the analytic network process, which is one of the multicriteria decision making processes for the elicitation technique selection process with respect to criterion attributes of project. The motivation toward the use of the ANP approach for the selection of requirement selection technique is that there are dependencies existing among attributes of the project elements. So, the ANP approach is capable of dealing with such situations where dependencies and complexity occur. Results of the proposed study demonstrate that the technique helps in complex situations where decision making is difficult based on the alternatives.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Influence of Corrosion Rate and Shear Span Ratio on Reinforced Concrete Beam
Authors: Guo Xiao , Wang Hongwei , Xie Kaizhong , Shi Tuo , Yu Dan
Published: September 2020

In order to study the influence of corrosion rate and shear span ratio on reinforced concrete beam, a numerical analysis method of corroded reinforced concrete beam was put forward. Bond‐slip relationship formula between reinforcement and concrete was suggested. A three‐dimensional finite element model of corroded reinforced concrete beam was established. Calculation method of ultimate bearing capacity for reinforced concrete beam was suggested. Ultimate bearing capacity experiment on 14 corroded reinforced concrete beams with different corrosion rates and shear span ratios was carried out. Numerical analysis results and experimental results were compared and analyzed. The results show that, for reinforced concrete beams with different corrosion rates and shear span ratios, load‐deflection curve can be divided into elasticity stage and plasticity stage. With the increase of corrosion rate and shear span ratio, ultimate bearing capacity of corroded reinforced concrete beam decreased. When shear span ratio was 3.0, if corrosion rate increased by 1%, experimental value of ultimate bearing capacity decreased by 1.002 kN. When shear span ratio was 2.4, if corrosion rate increased by 1%, experimental value of ultimate bearing capacity decreased by 1.849 kN. The numerical analysis method put forward in this paper was feasible, and the suggested ultimate bearing capacity calculation method for reinforced concrete beam has a high accuracy.
The Management of Erythrodermic Psoriasis Complicated by Cyclosporine
Authors: Rao Suman , Bernshteyn Michelle , Sohal Raman , Proumen Rachael , Goodman Alexandra , Shepherd Zachary
Published: September 2020

We present a 64-year-old woman with past medical history of psoriasis and alcoholic liver cirrhosis who presented with a diffuse, erythematous, and scaly rash. Pertinent medications included topical triamcinolone 0.1% cream. She was started on oral prednisone 40 milligrams (mg) and oral cyclosporine 150 mg daily and was continued on topical triamcinolone. After the administration of two doses of this regimen, the serum creatinine increased to 1.76 mg/dL, and serum potassium increased to 6.7 mEq/L. The serum creatinine continued to uptrend to 2.42 mg/dL, and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decreased to 20 mL/min. The patient was emergently hemodialyzed. The patient was placed on an extended steroid taper, alleviating the psoriatic rash. However, the patient needed to be placed on a steroid-sparing regimen. Because of its rarity and ensuing complications, erythrodermic psoriasis must be identified and managed promptly. Cyclosporine is currently the first-line treatment. However, initiation of this therapy in our patient resulted in an acute kidney injury (AKI). Even though a steroid taper assisted in alleviating erythroderma, a steroid-sparing regimen needed to be started. This led to the consideration of alternate methods of therapy for further management of erythrodermic psoriasis with renal impairment.
Assessment of the Influence Systemic Cryotherapy Exerts on Chosen Skin Scores of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: Pilot Study
Authors: Kepinska-Szyszkowska Magdalena , Misiorek Anna , Kapinska-Mrowiecka Monika , Tabak Jan , Malina Karolina
Published: September 2020

Background. One of the most important tasks in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) is alleviation of racking skin dryness and persistent pruritus, because these factors exert a significant influence on worsening patients’ quality of life. Cryotherapy being a new form of rehabilitation in AD may supplement and support a long‐term process of AD treatment, because it has anti‐inflammatory and antipruritic effects and exerts a positive influence on the nervous system. Methods. 14 adults (mean age 32 ± 10.8) with mild to moderate AD were enrolled. WBC (15 treatments in total) took place in winter 2018/2019. Patient skin parameters (hydration of the epidermis, sebum level, and skin pH level) were measured with probes produced by Courage + Khazaka Electronic GmbH. Results. Changes were observed in the hydration level of the epidermis. The SCORAD index evaluating the AD intensity level also changed (decreased). Conclusion. Due to these properties, hypothesis has been put forward that WBC can be an effective, supporting method in the treatment of AD.
A Comparative Analysis between Ultrasound-Guided and Conventional Distal Transradial Access for Coronary Angiography and Intervention
Authors: Mori Shinsuke , Hirano Keisuke , Yamawaki Masahiro , Kobayashi Norihiro , Sakamoto Yasunari , Tsutsumi Masakazu , Honda Yohsuke , Makino Kenji , Shirai Shigemitsu , Ito Yoshiaki
Published: September 2020

Objectives. To compare feasibility and safety between ultrasound-guided and conventional distal transradial access (dTRA). Background. Distal transradial access, a new technique for coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), is safe and feasible and will become popular worldwide. Ultrasound-guided dTRA has been advocated to reduce failure rate and access-site complications. However, to date, the comparison of feasibility and safety between ultrasound-guided and conventional dTRA has not been reported. Method. Overall, 137 patients (144 procedures) who underwent CAG or PCI using dTRA between September 2018 and February 2019 were investigated. These patients were classified into two groups: C (dTRA with conventional punctures; 76 patients, 79 procedures) and U (dTRA with ultrasound-guided punctures; 61 patients, 65 procedures) groups. Successful procedural rate, procedural outcomes, and complication rate during hospital stays were compared between the two groups. Results. The procedural success rate was significantly higher in the U group than in the C group (97% vs. 87%, P=0.0384). However, the rate of PCI, puncture time, total fluoroscopy time, the volume of contrast medium, the rate of access-site ecchymosis, and incidence of nerve disorder were similar between the two groups. Additionally, radial artery occlusion after the procedure did not occur in this study. Conclusion. The ultrasound-guided dTRA for CAG or PCI was associated with a lower failure rate than conventional dTRA. However, there were no significant differences in puncture time and complication rate between the two procedures.