bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tempo versus average rates of harmonic rhythm in popular music: A study of three corpora
Authors: de Clercq Trevor
Published: May 2022

This article reports a pair of studies that test two opposing hypotheses derived from music theory scholarship with regard to chord durations in popular music. The first hypothesis is that, regardless of tempo, chords will tend to last on average an ideal span of relative time, such as a bar. The second hypothesis is that, regardless of tempo, chords will tend to last on average an ideal span of absolute time, such as 2 s. Given the subjectivity of these parameters, three large encoded collections of harmony in popular music, each based on different musical styles and annotated by different musicians, were used to study the evidence for and against these two hypotheses. Average chord lengths were calculated for each song in the corpora based on geometric mean length in bars, geometric mean length in seconds, median length in bars, and median length in seconds. Following a description of the data-wrangling stages, the article reports the use of analysis of variance and linear regression models to examine the validity of each hypothesis. Although neither hypothesis was supported consistently, more evidence was found to support the second hypothesis that chord lengths tend to last on average an ideal span of absolute time, regardless of tempo. This finding suggests the existence of a perceptual ideal for chord durations in popular music that should be quantified in seconds rather than bars.
Variations in Clinical Practice: Assessing Clinical Care Processes According to Clinical Guidelines in a National Cohort of Hospice Patients
Authors: de Graaf Everlien , Grant Matthew , van de Baan Frederieke , Ausems Marijke , Verboeket-Crul Cathelijne , Leget Carlo , Teunissen Saskia
Published: May 2022

Background: National clinical guidelines have been developed internationally to reduce variations in clinical practices and promote the quality of palliative care. In The Netherlands, there is considerable variability in the organisation and care processes of inpatient palliative care, with three types of hospices – Volunteer-Driven Hospices (VDH), Stand-Alone Hospices (SAH), and nursing home Hospice Units (HU). Aim: This study aims to examine clinical practices in palliative care through different hospice types and identify variations in care. Methods: Retrospective cohort study utilising clinical documentation review, including patients who received inpatient palliative care at 51 different hospices and died in 2017 or 2018. Care provision for each patient for the management of pain, delirium and palliative sedation were analysed according to the Dutch national guidelines. Results: 412 patients were included: 112 patients who received treatment for pain, 53 for delirium, and 116 patients underwent palliative sedation therapy. Care was provided in accordance with guidelines for pain in 32%, 61% and 47% (P = .047), delirium in 29%, 78% and 79% (P = .0016), and palliative sedation in 35%, 63% and 42% (P = .067) of patients who received care in VDHs, SAHs and HUs respectively. When all clinical practices were considered, patient care was conducted according to the guidelines for 33% of patients in VDHs, 65% in SAHs, and 50% in HUs (P < .001). Conclusions: The data demonstrate that care practices are not standardised throughout Dutch hospices and exhibit significant variations between type of hospice.
Off the Beaten Path: Caring for People Engaging in Potentially Unsafe Low Evidence Therapies
Authors: Hammond John , Schneiderhan Jill , Taylor Laura , Marks Adam
Published: May 2022

Palliative care clinicians regularly care for patients with serious illnesses, many of whom are engaging in the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) either alone or along with conventional medical therapies. A subset of these patients may be engaging in therapies that have little or no evidence for efficacy and carry significant potential risks to their health. These therapies, however, may carry a great deal of significance for the patient and family for whom conventional medicine has failed or is otherwise deemed untenable. Dismissing such therapies as “quackery” risks alienating patients and damaging or even severing a therapeutic relationship. When faced with patients who are engaging in potentially unsafe low-evidence therapies (PULETs), clinicians themselves may experience a great deal of moral distress when deciding how to balance supporting the hope PULETs may represent with the principles of nonmaleficence and autonomy. In this article, we will review the definition of PULETs and distinguish them from most CAM therapies. Drawing upon existing writings in the CAM literature, we will then review a framework to evaluate the relative risk/benefit ratio of such therapies followed by a review of the ethical and legal aspects of care. Finally, utilizing existing principles and tools in emotion-based communication, we present a communication approach to foster continued collaboration and care for patients who engage in PULETs.
Do We Have Structure, Process and Outcomes to Support Cannabis as Supportive Therapy in Cancer?
Authors: Davis Mellar P. , Case Amy A. , Cyr Claude
Published: May 2022

Cannabis is becoming more popular and more available in the United States. It has been approved for use by multiple states for various conditions and several states now allow recreational cannabis. We explore the structure of cannabis distribution, the process of acquisition, outcomes, and the safety of cannabis in the United States.
Isoflurane Promotes Cell Proliferation, Invasion, and Migration by Regulating BACH1 and miR-375 in Prostate Cancer Cells In Vitro
Authors: Zheng Jue , Chen Guiheng , Li Tieqiu , He Xiang , Luo Yuanman , Yang Ke
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of isoflurane in proliferation, invasion, and migration in prostate cancer (PC) cells in vitro by regulating BACH1 and miR-375. The effect of different concentrations of isoflurane (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%) on PC cell proliferation (PC3 and 22RV1) was measured. After PC cells and normal human prostate stromal immortalized WPMY-1 cells were treated with isoflurane, BACH1 and miR-375 expression was measured. Subsequently, PC3 and 22RV1 cells underwent gain- and loss-of-function assays with or without 4-h 2% isoflurane pretreatment. The levels of miR-375, BACH1, and PTEN were assessed. The binding of BACH1 to miR-375 promoter was detected by ChIP assay. Dual-luciferase reporter assay detected the targeting relationship of miR-375 with BACH1 and PTEN. Isoflurane promoted PC3 and 22RV1 cell proliferation. In addition, isoflurane elevated the levels of BACH1 and miR-375 in a dosage-dependent manner in PC cells. Transfection with miR-375 inhibitor or sh-BACH1 repressed PC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, while exposure to 2% isoflurane for 4 h before transfection counteracted the inhibitory effects of sh-BACH1 or miR-375 inhibitor on PC cells. PTEN expression was suppressed after 2% isoflurane treatment, but the transfection with miR-375 inhibitor partly abrogated this suppressive effect in PC cells. Moreover, BACH1 bound to miR-375 and miR-375 negatively targeted PTEN. miR-375 mimic could partially reverse the inhibitory effects of sh-BACH1 on the proliferation, invasion, and migration of isoflurane-treated PC cells. Isoflurane facilitated PC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by activating BACH1 to upregulate miR-375.
Safety Assessment of Carbonate Salts as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Johnson Wilbur , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Gill Lillian J. , Heldreth Bart
Published: May 2022

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) assessed the safety of 6 carbonate salts which function as absorbents, bulking agents, opacifying agents, pH adjusters, buffering agents, abrasives, and oral care agents in cosmetic products. The Panel reviewed relevant data relating to the safety of these ingredients, and concluded that these carbonate salts are safe in the present practices of use and concentration in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating.
Preliminary Report of the Safety and Tolerability of 1 Hz Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Gersner Roman , Oberman Lindsay M. , Sanchez Maria J , Chiriboga Nicolas , Kaye Harper L , Pascual-Leone Alvaro , Zangen Abraham , Rotenberg Alexander
Published: May 2022

Background

Low frequency (≤1 Hz) repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been shown to suppress cortical excitability and is beginning to be trialed for the treatment of refractory epilepsy.

Purpose

As a step toward a larger trial, the current pilot study was aimed to test the tolerability and safety of temporal lobe rTMS using H-coil for the treatment of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Research Design

1800 pulses of active or sham rTMS were applied 5  days a week for 2 weeks over the temporal lobe of the affected hemisphere.

Results

Nine participants were enrolled and randomized to verum or sham stimulation. One participant dropped out from the sham group after 5 rTMS sessions. In-session, 3 patients had typical seizures during sham stimulation. One patient had seizures also during active stimulation (albeit fewer than during sham). Minor reported adverse events during stimulation otherwise included transient neck pain and headache, and were reported in equal numbers in both groups. Major adverse events were not reported. Our results indicate that H-coil rTMS was well-tolerated.

Conclusion

Given the relatively high prevalence of individuals with TLE who are treatment-resistant and the preliminary results of this study, we suggest that a larger safety and efficacy trial of 1 Hz rTMS for the treatment of TLE is warranted.
Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging of normal-appearing white matter in multiple sclerosis: correlation with brain volume and clinical disability
Authors: Larassati Hana , Pandelaki Jacub , Estiasari Riwanti , Prihartono Joedo , Firdausia Salsabila , Yunus Reyhan Eddy , Mulyadi Rahmad
Published: May 2022

Background

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities in multiple sclerosis (MS) are not limited to lesions, but have also been observed in the white matter that appears normal on conventional MRI sequences, known as normal-appearing white matter (NAWM). There is evidence of microstructural processes occurring in the NAWM.

Objective

To assess the correlation between NAWM apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) with brain volume and clinical disability in MS.

Methods

Brain MRI from 33 MS patients were included. ADC and FA measurements of the genu, body, and splenium of corpus callosum (CC) were done. ADC and FA values were analyzed to measure their correlation with brain volume from MR volumetry and clinical disability represented by Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).

Results

The mean ADC of CC NAWM was .93 ×10−3 mm2/s (±.13 SD), and the mean FA .72 (±.12 SD). ADC and FA of CC NAWM were significantly correlated with the ratio of brain volume to intracranial volume (R = −0,70 and 0,78 respectively), and with EDSS (R = .52 and −.59 respectively).

Conclusion

There were significant correlations between ADC and FA of NAWM with brain volume and EDSS of MS patients. Further longitudinal studies were needed to evaluate the potential of diffusion MRI in the evaluation of MS.
How change agents mobilise masculinities to support gender equality in academia
Authors: Bleijenbergh Inge
Published: May 2022

This paper theorises the role of men and mobilising masculinities in organisational change towards gender equality by investigating how change agents in academia give meaning to their involvement in such change. Via narrative inquiry I compare the working of emotions and affective solidarity in narratives of 15 male and female change agents at nine universities in four countries. The analysis shows that both male and female change agents mobilise different types of masculinities to foster gender equality: chivalrous masculinity, disruptive masculinity and inclusive masculinity. This paper contributes to the gender equality change literature by theorising masculinities as not only hindering but also potentially transforming organisations in the direction of gender equality. The interplay between knowledge and affect in the narratives of gender equality change agents suggests that interventions should aim to move emotions and support affective solidarity through recognising and understanding participants’ experiences with systems of inequality.
A review of the application of green walls in the acoustic field
Authors: Yan Feng , Shen Jingjing , Zhang Wuxia , Ye Leiting , Lin Xinfeng
Published: May 2022

Green wall technology, including green façades and living walls, presents a promising solution to encounter the negative impacts of noise pollution. Research and development of green walls are steadily progressing in multiple fields, including but not limited to the environmental, social, and economic areas. Compared to other themes, the number of acoustic studies of green walls is relatively low and lacks relevant review papers. The purpose of this paper is to give a systematic review of the application of green walls in the acoustic field and clarify the key factors that influence the acoustic performance of green walls and the main obstacles that obstruct the broader application of green walls. A total number of 34 papers published in the past 10 years are reviewed. This study identifies that the acoustic applications of green walls are mainly in four aspects, namely laboratory applications, outdoor applications, indoor applications, and audio-visual applications. Vegetation morphology and properties of substrates are the two crucial factors determining green facades and living walls’ acoustic properties, respectively. High installation, operation, and maintenance costs and plant-induced problems are recognized as the main obstructions. A few possible topics are recommended for future study as well.
“It's more about building trust”: Physical education teachers’ experiences with trauma-informed practices
Authors: Ellison Douglas W , Walton-Fisette Jennifer
Published: May 2022

In schools today, student trauma and toxic stress may impact students’ ability to learn. Therefore, this inquiry explored the experiences and knowledge of 27 physical education (PE) teachers in the United States related to trauma and trauma-informed practices. Teachers’ experiences were examined through semi-structured interviews informed by the literature. Employing interpretivist philosophical assumptions, data analysis revealed that teachers utilized four general dimensions related to trauma-informed strategies in their gymnasiums: creating a physically safe and emotionally safe space, formulating positive and healthy relationships with students, developing student responsibility, and guiding students toward self-regulation. These strategies aligned with Souers and Hall's (2019) tenets of fostering resilient learners. Although the teachers did not have prior educational experiences with trauma and trauma-informed practices and minimal professional development, they demonstrated what is possible when working with students who experience trauma and/or toxic stress. By fostering resilient learners and engaging in trauma-informed practices, it is conceivable for P-12 students to have positive and inclusive experiences in PE.
In defense of materiality: Attending to the sensori-social life of things
Authors: Howes David
Published: May 2022

This article presents a defense of the concept of materiality in the face of Tim Ingold’s critique of the concept as part of his “efforts to restore anthropology to life” in Being Alive and elsewhere. While acknowledging the forcefulness of Ingold’s stress on the “liveliness” of materials, and doctrine of perception “as action” (not representation), it critiques the way he neuters the perceiving subject, abstracts the senses, disregards the sensuous pleasures of making, and elides the sensori-social life of things. Three case studies are presented by way of illustration: the sensorial archaeology of perception, the “exuberant materiality” of the Byzantine bas-relief metal icon, and the tactility of “ladies’ craftwork” in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. In place of Ingold’s ideal-typical figures – the rootless wayfarer, the skilled craftsman – this article brings out the situatedness of the human subject within a particular tradition, or sensory and social regime, and how this mediates their construction and perception of things and other persons.
Involuntary psychiatric treatment and the erosion of consent: A critical discourse analysis of mental health legislation in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Kolar Maja , Varcoe Colleen , Brown Helen , Einboden Rochelle
Published: May 2022

The Mental Health Act (1996) is legislation that directs voluntary and involuntary psychiatric treatment for people experiencing mental health issues in British Columbia (BC), Canada. This critical discursive analysis explores how BC’s Mental Health Act (1996) and the Guide to the Mental Health Act (2005) structure involuntary psychiatric treatment and illustrates how the discourses within these texts constitute people experiencing mental health issues as passive recipients of care. Understandings of people experiencing mental health issues as pathological, incapable, vulnerable and dangerous justify their need for protection and the protection of others. Protection is identified as a central legitimising discourse in the use of involuntary psychiatric treatment. Further, these texts define the roles and responsibilities of police, physicians and nurses in authorising and implementing involuntary psychiatric treatment. This analysis describes how this legislation erodes consent and entrenches social marginalisation. Alternatively, discourses of equity have potential to transform health care practices and structures that reproduce discourses of deficit, vulnerability and dangerousness, shifting towards promotion of the rights and safety of people experiencing mental health issues and crises.
Fashioning feminism: how Leandra Medine and other Man Repeller authors blog about choice and the gaze
Authors: White Michele
Published: May 2022

Leandra Medine indicates that she wants the Man Repeller multi-author blog to ‘serve as an open forum for women to draw their own conclusions’ instead of making ‘any sort of feministic statement’. Medine renders feminism as amorphous and an individual choice but she has been widely lauded for offering a feminist engagement in fashion. Her practices and position, as I argue throughout this article, allow her to fashion feminism, including associating feminism with the man repeller style and replacing aspects of second wave and rights-based feminisms with the purportedly more equitable and liberating website ethos of choice and equality feminism. Yet in replacing ‘feministic’ critiques with promises of stylish cultural change and clothing that reportedly repels men, Medine and other Man Repeller authors elide how systemic oppression functions. This ambivalent relationship to feminism, and dearth of intersectional advocacy, prompted a backlash in 2020. Critics interrogated Medine's facile statement about #BlackLivesMatter, the company's lack of diversity and the unsuccessful restructuring of the blog. As a means of analysing Man Repeller, I employ textual analysis, feminist and queer literature and media theory. I define fashioning feminism as a collaborative and ongoing process of producing feminist positions and thinking, including the negation of certain forms of feminism. I assert that attending to the fashioning of feminism can foreground central and developing feminist theories; the appeal, unstylishness and effacement of feminism; and the connection between style and politics. This includes readers’ interrogations of Man Repeller's politics, which are occurring along with contemporary examinations of racism. Since fashioning feminism is a collaborative and ongoing process of producing feminist positions and thought, engaging with its concepts and debates can further the critical study of feminism, nurture feminist conversations and advocate for social change.
Co-creation strategies in times of crisis: The case of Warren
Authors: Zen Aurora Carneiro , Bittencourt Bruno Anicet , Spohr Rodrigo
Published: May 2022

This case focuses on how a startup can develop co-creation strategies along with its customers in times of crisis. It explores the case of Warren, which by forming a close relationship with its customers, has developed a simplified investment platform. The startup has grown and made innovations in the financial market. However, it has faced several challenges in the recent past owing to the crisis of COVID-19. This case study provides a detailed account of how firms can deal with crises, specifically in the context of startups. This case study is also useful for identifying the market opportunities in unstable scenarios. This will advance our understanding of how customer relationships can be used to develop innovative solutions.
Inclusive statistics: A disaggregation of indicators by disability status and its implications for policy
Authors: Mitra Sophie , Yap Jaclyn , Hervé Justine , Chen Wei
Published: May 2022

Disability has received limited attention on the global data and social policy scene. There are few global data portals or indices tracking the socioeconomic situation of persons with disabilities. Global social policy initiatives tend to focus on disability benefits, while other social policies may impact the situation of persons with disabilities. The absence of internationally comparable data and tools to measure disability could explain this lack of attention until recently. Given progress with respect to measuring disability, this article set out to find out if human development indicators can be disaggregated by disability status using census and mainstream survey data and, if they can, consider what such disaggregation reveals regarding the socioeconomic situation of persons with disabilities and derive implications for social policies. Disability status is measured through self-reports of functional difficulties (e.g. seeing, hearing). For 19 low- and middle-income countries, the median prevalence stands at 13% among adults aged 15 years and older, and at 28% among households. We could disaggregate a range of human development indicators across disability status for all countries. There are consistent inequalities associated with disability, particularly in terms of educational attainment, employment population ratio, multidimensional poverty, and food security. At the same time, we find that not all persons with functional difficulties experience deprivations. Results in this article on the prevalence of functional difficulties and their association with socioeconomic deprivations show that disability should be central to social policies globally. More data collection, research, and policy work are needed to curb the inequalities associated with disability.
Experiment methods and apparatus for finely controlled partial needle lift measurements with a gasoline direct injector
Authors: Hillstrom David , Midlam-Mohler Shawn , Stockburger Garrett
Published: May 2022

In this study, an experiment method and apparatus are developed which allow exploration of partial-lift spray in a production gasoline direct injection (GDI) injector. For this injector, discretizing the needle’s stroke into a series of steady partial-lift tests seems a viable approach for quantifying transient behavior, where spray performance is often inferior from the perspective of emissions. However, performing such tests is not trivial due to manufacturing challenges and material limitations making it difficult to isolate any particular lift at pressure. To explore the applicability of fixed partial-lift tests, the following are performed: (1) An inward-opening multi-hole GDI injector is minimally modified with an apparatus to finely control needle lift by limiting the needle’s stroke with a fine micrometer head. (2) An experiment process is developed to associate the micrometer set-point with the imposed needle lift, compensating for pressure induced component flex. This flex is significant and of a similar magnitude to the needle’s stroke. (3) In-nozzle flow is simulated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) within the AVL FIRE software to compare a stationary and moving needle. The comparison reveals a relative insignificance of needle velocity for the majority of the needle’s stroke (>5 μm). The nozzle hole flow rates and effective exit velocities are similar, suggesting fixed partial-lift spray well approximates the normally moving needle spray. This new experiment method can be used on current injectors to quantify spray performance during needle transients by discretizing the stroke into steps as small as 2 μm, exceeding the control in any current published literature.
Going small, going carefully, with a friend: Helping faculty adopt lesson-level constructive alignment through non-evaluative peer observation
Authors: Tobiason Glory
Published: May 2022

Constructive Alignment (CA) is a pedagogical tool for designing student-centered instruction aligned to learning outcomes. Despite strong evidence that CA and student-centered instruction are superior to lecture-based pedagogy, the latter remains prevalent across higher education. This descriptive-explanatory case study ( n=20) investigates how programs of reciprocal, non-evaluative peer observation can help faculty understand and use CA at the lesson level. Analysis of exit interviews and faculty-faculty dialogue reveals that participants are able to apply principles of CA at the lesson level; most report this is new learning. Two program features that support this learning are described.
On Lasso and adaptive Lasso for non-random sample in credit scoring
Authors: Ogundimu Emmanuel O.
Published: May 2022

Prediction models in credit scoring are often formulated using available data on accepted applicants at the loan application stage. The use of this data to estimate probability of default (PD) may lead to bias due to non-random selection from the population of applicants. That is, the PD in the general population of applicants may not be the same with the PD in the subpopulation of the accepted applicants. A prominent model for the reduction of bias in this framework is the sample selection model, but there is no consensus on its utility yet. It is unclear if the bias-variance trade- off of regularization techniques can improve the predictions of PD in non-random sample selection setting. To address this, we propose the use of Lasso and adaptive Lasso for variable selection and optimal predictive accuracy. By appealing to the least square approximation of the likelihood function of sample selection model, we optimize the resulting function subject to L1 and adaptively weighted L1 penalties using an efficient algorithm. We evaluate the performance of the proposed approach and competing alternatives in a simulation study and applied it to the well-known American Express credit card dataset.
Culture and Policy Transfer: From Insight to Impact
Authors: Duong Hang
Published: May 2022

Culture has long been recognized and conceptualized as an important and indispensable influencing factor in policy transfer. However, inadequate attention has been devoted to the study of culture in this area of scholarship. Using qualitative data, mainly from interviews with policy-makers and policy-takers in Vietnam, this paper examines the relevance of culture in Vietnam’s merit-based policy transfer. It indicates how the conceptualization of culture is significant to policy transfer analysis. It also shows that culture at all levels—macro, meso, and micro—can influence both the policy transfer process and the outcomes. At the same time, it contends that despite this important role, culture acts more as a joint-influencing factor than a sole determinant in policy transfer. This paper argues that a multi-level and culture-sensitive approach to cultural analysis in policy transfer is a key to understand the dynamics of culture in the process.
Successful Aortic Remodeling Through the Candy-Plug Technique for Chronic Type B Aortic Dissection
Authors: Shimizu Haruna , Katayama Keijiro , Takata Yoshiaki , Inoue Risa , Emura Shogo , Takasaki Taiichi , Takahashi Shinya
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To describe the efficiency of the candy-plug technique using an Excluder aortic extender and obtain optimal aortic remodeling.

Case

A 46-year-old male patient had a history of acute type B aortic dissection and progressive dilation of the descending aorta (53 mm diameter) with a patent false lumen. He was treated with the candy-plug technique, using an Excluder aortic extender of 32-45 mm was placed and a 16-mm Amplatzer Vascular Plug II. No technical complications were observed in the patient. Good aortic remodeling was observed after 6 months, CT showed complete thrombosis of the false lumen and reduction of the maximum perpendicular diameter of the descending aorta from 53 to 47 mm. The diameter of the other proximal zones of the descending aorta was 45-47 mm, and the Excluder aortic extender changed into an elliptical shape. This is the first report of good aortic remodeling with an elliptical shape by performing the candy-plug technique.

Discussion

The candy-plug technique using an Excluder aortic extender is an improved method for occluding the false lumen as it provides improved aortic remodeling. The 2 indications for this surgery are limited. A large entry point in the descending abdominal aorta that is more peripheral than the candy-plug position must be visible on contrast-enhanced CT and the false lumen is not too large. We consider candy-plug placement in the true lumen central to the TEVAR to avoid occluding the artery of Adamkiewicz, since we have to avoid the thrombosis of the peripheral false lumen where a candy-plug was placed. Since it is unclear whether long-term results are satisfactory, we must continue to study chronic aortic type B dissection.
Developing Criminal Propensity? Modeling Developmental Effects of the Code of the Street and Low Self-Control Over Time
Authors: Erickson Jacob H. , Hochstetler Andy , Burgason Kyle A.
Published: May 2022

The code of the street and low self-control are prominent theories of crime. However, there is no research that examines if these criminogenic dispositions inform each other over time. We utilize the G.R.E.A.T. data to analyze the development of street code adherence and low selfcontrol longitudinally. We find a portion of the stability associated with street code adherence and low self-control to be a product of measurement, as evidenced by correlating error terms across waves. Additionally, we find low self-control to be related to increases in street code adherence especially in later waves and, to a lesser extent, we show effects of street code adherence on subsequent levels of low selfcontrol. We also discuss results from analyses split by race, gender, and neighborhood type. We discuss the theoretical implications of our findings and argue for the development and utility of a broad measure of criminal propensity.
Individuals with Higher Levels of Physical Activity after Stroke Show Comparable Patterns of Myelin to Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Greeley Brian , Rubino Cristina , Denyer Ronan , Chau Briana , Larssen Beverley , Lakhani Bimal , Boyd Lara
Published: May 2022

Background

Myelin asymmetry ratios (MARs) relate and contribute to motor impairment and function after stroke. Physical activity (PA) may induce myelin plasticity, potentially mitigating hemispheric myelin asymmetries that can occur after a stroke.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine whether individuals with higher levels of PA showed lower MAR compared to individuals with lower levels of PA.

Methods

Myelin water fraction was obtained from 5 bilateral motor regions in 22 individuals with chronic stroke and 26 healthy older adults. Activity levels were quantified with wrist accelerometers worn for a period of 72 hours (3 days). Higher and lower PA levels were defined by a cluster analysis within each group.

Results

MAR was similar regardless of PA level within the older adult group. Compared to the higher PA stroke group, lower PA stroke participants displayed greater MAR. There was no difference in MAR between the stroke and older adult higher PA groups. Within the lower PA groups, individuals with stroke showed greater MAR compared to the older adults. Arm impairment, lesion volume, age, time since stroke, and preferential arm use were not different between the PA stroke groups, suggesting that motor impairment severity and extent of brain damage did not drive differences in PA.

Conclusion

Individuals who have had a stroke and are also physically active display lower MAR (i.e., similar myelin in both hemispheres) in motor regions. High levels of PA may be neuroprotective and mitigate myelin asymmetries once a neurological insult, such as a stroke, occurs. Alternately, it is possible that promoting high levels of PA after a stroke may reduce myelin asymmetries.
High-Definition 3D Exoscope in Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Mercante Giuseppe , Costantino Andrea , De Virgilio Armando , Ferreli Fabio , Spriano Giuseppe
Published: May 2022

Background

The high-definition 3D exoscope is an innovative and promising tool that was recently introduced in the clinical practice. It may be used during open surgical procedures to enhance the ability to perform precise dissection of fine structures. We describe our preliminary experience with the 3D exoscope in thyroid surgery, discussing potential advantages of this system.

Methods

A high-definition 3D exoscope (3D VITOM®) mounted on the VERSACRANETM holding system (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany) was used to perform open thyroid surgery.

Results

The 3D exoscope was used in three patients without significant intra-operative delay or complications. Both thyroidectomy and central compartment dissection were performed. The 3D exoscope allows to perform precise dissection in the identification and preservation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the parathyroid glands.

Conclusions

3D exoscope-assisted thyroid surgery seems to be feasible and safe. Further studies should be encouraged to analyze potential clinical benefit in the post-operative period.
Left Atrial Appendage Ligation Using the AtriClip Device: Single-Center Study of Device Safety and Efficacy
Authors: Kiankhooy Armin , Liem Bing , Dunnington Gansevoort H. , Pierce Carolyn , Eisenberg Susan J. , Burk Shelby , Kaiser Daniel W. , Lyons Timothy , Huber Daniel
Published: May 2022

Objective: Left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion at the time of cardiac surgery in patients with atrial fibrillation has been shown to reduce the incidence of postoperative embolic stroke. However, the optimal method for LAA occlusion is not universally accepted. We sought to examine the safety and effectiveness of LAA occlusion with the AtriClip epicardial occlusion device. Methods: Cardiac surgical patients with atrial fibrillation who underwent LAA AtriClip placement were evaluated prospectively. Clip placement and clinical outcomes were examined after 1 year of follow-up with transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The presence of a 10 mm or greater residual pouch, presence of flow into the LAA, or device-related thrombus (DRT) were considered failures. Results: Ninety-seven patients were analyzed. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 2.4 ± 1.4. The postoperative follow-up period ranged from 366 to 1,693 days (mean 685 days or 1.87 years). Seventy-four AtriClips were placed with video-assisted thoracic surgery, whereas 23 were placed via sternotomy or thoracotomy. Successful closure was found in 96% (93 of 97) of patients at follow-up. Failure occurred in 4 patients. No clip migration or DRT was seen on 3-dimensional imaging. Of all 97 patients, 76 (78%) were on presurgical oral anticoagulation, whereas 5 (5.1%) were on postprocedure oral anticoagulation. There were no postoperative thromboembolic events at the time of the study TEE. Conclusions: The AtriClip epicardial surgical occlusion device can provide an excellent rate of successful closure of the LAA during surgical ablation procedures without DRT.
Trans-regional generic competences: The core of an internationalized curriculum
Authors: Beneitone Pablo , Yarosh Maria
Published: May 2022

If we admit that students must be prepared for life and work in increasingly culturally-diverse and ever changing contexts through core curricula which are the competences that must be prioritized? What competences are ‘strong candidates’ to be considered as trans-regional and can lead to inclusive excellence in higher education? Does, this, perhaps depend on the region where students are educated? The present article reports on a meta-study that sought to respond to these questions through looking at 40 generic competences valued by over 71,000 graduates, employers, students and academics from different disciplines in Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia. The notion of trans-regional generic competences is introduced and four levels of trans-regionalisation are distinguished. Differences across regions and countries in relation to competence formulation and conceptualization, as well as the very presence/absence of a particular competence, are discussed with views of re-introducing further nuances in the global debates about internationalization of curriculum.
Description of collective behaviour in football according to the level of competence in representative tasks from positional data: Systematic review
Authors: Nieto Sergio , Castellano Julen , Echeazarra Ibon
Published: May 2022

The aim of this systematic review is to provide a base of knowledge from studies that have dealt with the description of collective behaviour in young footballers according to the level of competence associated to that age group, taking representative tasks from positional data as our starting point. Following the PRISMA statement a systematic revision was carried out on three meta-search engines (PubMed, Web of Science and SportDiscus). The following key words were used in the search: football, tactical behaviour, positional data and age-group, together with their equivalents. Of the 423 articles identified, 11 fulfilled the inclusion requirements. The main results suggest that: the variables made up of the joining of two points with a line (Width, Length and distance between dyads) and the collective area covered increase with age; however, the individual area tends to reduce. The increase in level of competence appears to require a greater functional variability in order to generate uncertainty and to counteract that of the opposing team. These results could allow trainers to identify on which tactical behaviour to focus intervention with the aim of fostering optimal development according the age.
Violinboxplot and enhanced radar plot as components of effective graphical dashboards: An educational example of sports analytics
Authors: Casals Martí , Daunis-i-Estadella Pepus
Published: May 2022

A statistical graph can offer an alternative compelling approach to statistical thinking that focuses on important concepts rather than procedural formulas. Nowadays, visualizing multidimensional/multivariate data is essential but can also be challenging. In sport analytics, the exploration and descriptive analysis of data using visualization techniques has increased in recent years to, for example, describe possible patterns and uncertainty of player performance. These visualization techniques have been used so far with different purposes by various professionals in the sport industry, such as managers, coaches, scouters, technical staff, journalists, and researchers. The abuse of graphs, such as the radar plot, and their frequent misinterpretation in the world of sports and possible implications for coaching decisions has led us to create more informative and accurate visualizations. Here, we propose new, more educational visualizations we have termed violinboxplots and enhanced radar plot for their use in the sports analytics and other fields. These allow us to visualize, besides distribution and statistical summaries, the extreme data values that can be fundamental in performance studies and allow us to benchmark.
“Is it a slow day or a go day?”: The perceptions and applications of velocity-based training within elite strength and conditioning
Authors: Thompson Steve W. , Olusoga Pete , Rogerson David , Ruddock Alan , Barnes Andrew
Published: May 2022

Velocity-based training (VBT) is a contemporary prescriptive, programming, and testing tool commonly utilised in strength and conditioning (S&C). Over recent years, there has been an influx of peer-reviewed literature investigating several different applications (e.g. load-velocity profiling, velocity loss, load manipulation, and reliability of technology) of VBT. The procedures implemented in research, however, do not always reflect the practices within applied environments. The aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the perceptions and applications of VBT within elite S&C to enhance contextual understanding and develop appropriate avenues of practitioner-focused research. Fourteen high-performance S&C coaches participated in semi-structured interviews to discuss their experiences of implementing VBT into their practices. Reflexive thematic analysis was adopted, following an inductive and realist approach. Three central organising themes emerged: Technology, applications, and reflections. Within these central themes, higher order themes consisting of drivers for buying technology; programming, testing, monitoring, and feedback; and benefits, drawbacks, and future uses also emerged. Practitioners reported varied drivers and applications of VBT, often being dictated by simplicity, environmental context, and personal preferences. Coaches perceived VBT to be a beneficial tool yet were cognizant of the drawbacks and challenges in certain settings. VBT is a flexible tool that can support and aid several aspects of S&C planning and delivery, with coaches valuing the impact it can have on training environments, objective prescriptions, tracking player readiness, and programme success.
Therapy professionals in critical care: A UK wide workforce survey
Authors: Twose Paul , Terblanche Ella , Jones Una , Bruce James , Firshman Penelope , Highfield Julie , Jones Gemma , Merriweather Judith , Newey Vicky , Newman Helen , Rock Claire , Wallace Sarah
Published: May 2022

Introduction

National guidelines suggest recommended staffing levels for therapies. The aim of this study was to capture information on existing staffing levels, roles and responsibilities and service structures.

Methods

An observational study using online surveys distributed to 245 critical care units across the United Kingdom (UK). Surveys consisted of a generic and five profession specific surveys.

Results

Eight hundred sixty-two responses were received from 197 critical care units across the UK. Of those that responded, over 96% of units had input from dietetics, physiotherapy and SLT. Whereas only 59.1% and 48.1% had an OT or psychology service respectively. Units with ring fenced services had improved therapist to patient ratios.

Discussion

There is significant variation in access to therapists for patients admitted to critical care in the UK, with many services not having services for core therapies such as psychology and OT. Where services do exist, they fall below the recommended guidance.
Iterative solvers for the thermoacoustic nonlinear eigenvalue problem and their convergence properties
Authors: Mensah Georg A. , Buschmann Philip E. , Orchini Alessandro
Published: May 2022

The spectrum of the thermoacoustic operator is governed by a nonlinear eigenvalue problem. A few different strategies have been proposed by the thermoacoustic community to tackle it and identify the frequencies and growth rates of thermoacoustic eigenmodes. These strategies typically require the use of iterative algorithms, which need an initial guess and are not necessarily guaranteed to converge to an eigenvalue. A quantitative comparison between the convergence properties of these methods has however never been addressed. By using adjoint-based sensitivity, in this study we derive an explicit formula that can be used to quantify the behaviour of an iterative method in the vicinity of an eigenvalue. In particular, we employ Banach’s fixed-point theorem to demonstrate that there exist thermoacoustic eigenvalues that cannot be identified by some of the iterative methods proposed in the literature, in particular fixed-point iterations, regardless of the accuracy of the initial guess provided. We then introduce a family of iterative methods known as Householder’s methods, of which Newton’s method is a special case. The coefficients needed to use these methods are explicitly derived by means of high-order adjoint-based perturbation theory. We demonstrate how these methods are always guaranteed to converge to the closest eigenvalue, provided that the initial guess is accurate enough. We also show numerically how the basin of attraction of the eigenvalues varies with the order of the employed Householder’s method.
The Launch of the iCoDE Standard Project
Authors: Xu Nicole Y. , Nguyen Kevin T. , DuBord Ashley Y. , Klonoff David C. , Goldman Julian M. , Shah Shahid N. , Spanakis Elias K. , Madlock-Brown Charisse , Sarlati Siavash , Rafiq Azhar , Wirth Axel , Kerr David , Khanna Raman , Weinstein Scott , Espinoza Juan
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

The first meeting of the Integration of Continuous Glucose Monitor Data into the Electronic Health Record (iCoDE) project, organized by Diabetes Technology Society, took place virtually on January 27, 2022.

Methods:

Clinicians, government officials, data aggregators, attorneys, and standards experts spoke in panels and breakout groups. Three themes were covered: 1) why digital health data integration into the electronic health record (EHR) is needed, 2) what integrated continuously monitored glucose data will look like, and 3) how this process can be achieved in a way that will satisfy clinicians, healthcare organizations, and regulatory experts.

Results:

The meeting themes were addressed within eight sessions: 1) What Do Inpatient Clinicians Want to See With Integration of CGM Data into the EHR?, 2) What Do Outpatient Clinicians Want to See With Integration of CGM Data into the EHR?, 3) Why Are Data Standards and Guidances Useful?, 4) What Value Can Data Integration Services Add?, 5) What Are Examples of Successful Integration?, 6) Which Privacy, Security, and Regulatory Issues Must Be Addressed to Integrate CGM Data into the EHR?, 7) Breakout Group Discussions, and 8) Presentation of Breakout Group Ideas.

Conclusions:

Creation of data standards and workflow guidance are necessary components of the Integration of Continuous Glucose Monitor Data into the Electronic Health Record (iCoDE) standard project. This meeting, which launched iCoDE, will be followed by a set of working group meetings intended to create the needed standard.