bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why do women write? Exploring women's empowerment through online literature creation in China
Authors: Yunyi Hu
Published: May 2023

As a crucial part of the booming Chinese cultural creative industries, online literature has stood out for its great economic benefit and broad social influence in recent decades. The prospering of online literature in China owes a great deal to the rise of Chinese women as writers in this huge industrial chain. This study explores the initiatives and implications of women's online literature creation in China under the framework of women's empowerment. Drawing on data collected through digital ethnography and semi-structured interviews, it mainly addresses whether online literature creation empowers Chinese women in the digital era. Overall, I conclude that online literature creation might dynamically empower women as writers at both individual and collective levels in both material and non-material forms, yet such creation is still faced with serious challenges stemming from the precarity of the platform economy, the prevalence of patriarchal values, and the rigor of nation-state censorship in contemporary China.
Thinking of war, facing the catastrophe: The Russian-Ukrainian War
Authors: Khomyakov Maxim
Published: May 2023

The essay seeks to complement Hans-Herbert Kögler’s article on the moral case for supporting Ukraine in its current defence against aggression from Putin’s Russia. To do so it tries to offer a more adequate account of what Kögler calls the politico-national and symbolic-ideological standing of Russia in this conflict. On the political side, the article points out the neoliberal, securitized and, in the final analysis, criminal character of Putin’s regime. Analysing the national aspect, it pictures Russian society as a morally corrupt, atomized and depoliticized one, which, at the same time, is a hostage of the terrorist regime. Finally, on the ideological aspect, it calls in question Kögler’s claim about the importance of Dugin’s Eurasian ideology, arguing for the impossibility to promote any essentialist ideology in the extremely atomized contemporary Russian society. The moral case for supporting Ukraine consists in defending Ukraine, Russia and, in final analysis, humanity from the morally corrupting and physically destroying influence of Putin’s terrorist regime.
Reinforcement detailing of connections between perpendicular hollow precast walls
Authors: Carmo Ricardo , Martins Ricardo , Arruda MRT , Costa Hugo , Valente Divaldo , Valença Jónatas , Júlio Eduardo
Published: May 2023

The pre-wall system can be used in the construction of buildings, with multiple advantages in terms of production time and environmental impact. This type of walls is formed by two thin precast concrete panels, linked with steel trusses to create a hollow precast wall module, which are assembled at construction site, adding reinforcement in critical regions, namely, in connections, and casting concrete into the core. Recently, the durability and sustainability of this wall system were enhanced, using a high-durability concrete only in the cover and for the core was used a concrete that combines low cement dosage with lightweight aggregates. This paper presents a study, with both experimental and numerical components, developed to characterize the behaviour of corner connections between two perpendicular pre-walls. The connections between perpendicular pre-walls are must more complex than traditional connections made in situ because the space to define the reinforcement detailing is very limited, making difficult to assure a proper transmission of the internal stresses between the two walls. Different amounts of reinforcement, concretes mixtures and reinforcement detailing were tested. Nine numerical simulations were also performed to further enrich the results discussion. Cracks pattern, deformation, strength and stiffness were analysed. Conclusions are drawn and guidelines are proposed to design this type of connections between pre-walls.
Medical need and health need
Authors: Davies Ben
Published: May 2023

I introduce a distinction between health need and medical need, and raise several questions about their interaction. Health needs are needs that relate directly to our health condition. Medical needs are needs which bear some relation to medical institutions or processes. I suggest that the question of whether medical insurance or public care should cover medical needs, health needs, or only needs which fit both categories is a political question that cannot be resolved definitionally. I also argue against an overly strict definition of medical need on the grounds that this presupposes, wrongly, that medical intervention should always be a last resort.
Effects of metformin on glycaemic variability in combination with insulin in overweight/obese patients with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Poh Shean Wong , Chin Voon Tong , Long Bidin Mohamed Badrulnizam Bin , Adam Noor Lita Binti
Published: May 2023

Background:

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) individuals is increasing. Overweight people with T1DM may be insulin resistant. Glycaemic variability (GV) is an emerging measure of glycaemic control. The aim of this study is to investigate whether metformin, in adjunct to insulin, would have any favourable effect on GV.

Methods:

This was a multi-centre, open-label randomised crossover study. Twenty-four overweight/obese T1DM patients aged ⩾18 years old with HbA1c ⩾ 7.0% (53 mmol/mol) were recruited and randomised into two study arms. For first 6-week, one arm remained on standard of care (SOC), the other arm received metformin, adjunctive to SOC. After 2-week washout, patients crossed over and continued for another 6 weeks. Glycaemic variability, other glycaemic parameters and metabolic profile were monitored.

Results:

There were significant reduction in metformin group for GV: mean (0.18 ± 1.73 vs −0.95 ± 1.24, p = 0.014), %CV (−15.84 (18.92) vs −19.08 (24.53), p = 0.044), glycemic risk assessment of diabetes equation (−0.69 (3.83) vs −1.61 (3.61), p = 0.047), continuous overlapping net glycaemic action (0.25 ± 1.62 vs −0.85 ± 1.22, p = 0.013), J-index (−0.75 (21.91) vs −7.11 (13.86), p = 0.034), time in range (1.13 ± 14.12% vs 10.83 ± 15.47%, p = 0.032); changes of systolic blood pressure (2.78 ± 11.19 mmHg vs −4.30 ± 9.81 mmHg, p = 0.027) and total daily dose (TDD) insulin (0.0 (3.33) units vs −2.17 (11.45) units, p = 0.012). Hypoglycaemic episodes were not significant in between groups.

Conclusion:

Metformin showed favourable effect on GV in overweight/obese T1DM patients and reduction in systolic blood pressure, TDD insulin, fasting venous glucose and fructosamine.
The Inaugural Deutschmann Essays: Successful Senior Scholars Share Ideas About Journalism and Media Research
Authors: Aikat Deb
Published: May 2023

The inaugural Deutschmann Essays perpetuate in print the insights from senior media scholars on authoring significant scholarship to accomplish sustained excellence. The AEJMC instituted in 1969 the Deutschmann Award. Since our field was initially dominated by White men, so was the Deutschmann Award. Over 54 years of the award, 27 of 34 awardees were White men, one person of color, and six women. However, of the 10 most recent recipients, five have been women and one a person of color. AEJMC leaders are sincerely committed to recognizing the accomplishments of more diverse nominees, including women and people of color.
Emotion in Processing Advertising and News
Authors: Thorson Esther
Published: May 2023

I analyze work on the role of emotion in how people respond to advertising and news. Measuring emotion with brain waves to self-report, the role of valence and intensity of emotion engendered by ads demonstrates their important role in how ads persuade. Emotional response to ads is well theorized by the evolution of mechanisms evolved to approach or avoid stimuli to maximize survival. Response to news stories can be similarly theorized to suggest how surveillance is influenced by perceived importance and negative emotions registered during news consumption. I posit that increased understanding of news processing will follow when emotion’s role becomes better understood.
Pulsatile Changes of the Aortic Diameter May Be Irrelevant Regarding Endograft Sizing in Patients With Aortic Disease
Authors: Fontanini Daniele Mariastefano , Huber Máté , Vecsey-Nagy Milán , Borzsák Sarolta , Csőre Judit , Sótonyi Péter , Csobay-Novák Csaba
Published: May 2023

Purpose:

Endovascular aortic repair has become the preferred elective treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms. Aortic pulsatility may pose problems regarding endograft sizing. The aims of this study are to determine the aortic pulsatility in patients with aortic disease and to evaluate the effect of pulsatility on the growth of aneurysms.

Materials and Methods:

In this retrospective study, analyses of computed tomography angiography (CTA) images of 31 patients under conservative treatment for small abdominal aortic aneurysms were performed. Reconstructions of the raw electrocardiography (ECG) gated dataset at 30% and 90% of the R-R cycle were used. After lumen segmentation, total aortic cross-sectional area was measured in diastole and systole in the following zones: Z0, Z3, Z5, Z6, Z8, and Z9. Effective diameters (EDs) were calculated from the systolic (EDsys) and diastolic (EDdia) cross-sectional areas to determine absolute (EDsys – EDdia, mm) and relative pulsatility [(EDsys – EDdia) / EDdia, %]. Diameter of the aneurysms was measured on baseline images and the last preoperative follow-up study of each patient.

Results:

A total of 806 measurements were completed, 24 pulsatility and 2 growth measurements per patient. The mean pulsatility values at each point were as follows: Z0: 0.7±0.8 mm, Z3: 1.0±0.6 mm, Z5: 1.0±0.6 mm, Z6: 0.8±0.7 mm, Z8: 0.7±1.0 mm, Z9: 0.9±0.9 mm. Follow-up time was 5.5±2.2 years during which a growth of 13.42±9.09 mm (2.54±1.55 mm yearly) was observed. No correlation was found between pulsatility values and growth rate of the aneurysms.

Conclusion:

The pulsatility of the aorta is in a submillimetric range for the vast majority of patients with aortic disease, thus probably not relevant regarding endograft sizing. Pulsatility of the ascending aorta is smaller than that of the descending segment, making an additional oversize of a Z0 implantation questionable.

Clinical Impact

Endovascular aortic repair reqiures precise preoperative planning. Pulsatile changes of the aortic diameter may pose issues regarding endograft sizing. In our retrospective single-centre study, aortic pulsatility of patients with AAA was measured on ECG gated CTA images. Pulsatility values reached a maximum at the descending aorta, however absolute pulsatility values did not exceed 1 mm at any point along the aorta. Therefore, significance of aortic pulsatility regarding the sizing of EVAR prostheses is questionable. Correlation between pulsatility and AAA growth was not found.
Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Repair After Failed Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Taher Fadi , Plimon Markus , Walter Corinna , Weiss Gabriel , Kliewer Miriam , Assadian Afshin , Falkensammer Juergen
Published: May 2023

Purpose:

Fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (FEVAR) is technically more challenging when performed after a failing EVAR procedure (FEVAR after EVAR). This study aims to assess the technical outcome of FEVAR after EVAR and to identify factors that may influence complication rates.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted at a single department of vascular and endovascular surgery. The rate of FEVAR after EVAR compared to primary FEVAR is reported. Complication and primary unconnected fenestration (PUF) rates as well as survival were assessed for the FEVAR after EVAR cohort. PUF rates and operating time were also compared to all primary FEVAR patients. Patient characteristics and technical factors such as number of fenestrations or use of a steerable sheath were assessed as possible influencers on technical success when performing FEVAR after EVAR.

Results:

Two hundred and nine fenestrated devices were implanted during the study period (2013 to April 2020). Thirty-five patients (16.7% of all FEVAR patients) had undergone FEVAR after EVAR and were included in the study. Overall survival at last follow-up (20.2±19.1 months) was 82.9% in FEVAR after EVAR patients. Rates of technical failure dropped significantly after 14 procedures (42.9% vs. 9.5%; p=0.03). Primary unconnected fenestrations were seen in 3 cases of FEVAR after EVAR (8.6%) and 14 of 174 primary FEVAR cases (8.0%; p>0.99). Operating time for FEVAR after EVAR was significantly higher than for primary FEVAR (301.1±110.5 minutes vs. 253.9±103.4 minutes; p=0.02). The availability of a steerable sheath was a significant predictor of reduced risk of PUFs, whereas age and gender, number of fenestrations or suprarenal fixation of the failed EVAR did not significantly influence PUF rates.

Conclusion:

Fewer technical complications were seen over the study period in FEVAR after EVAR patients. While rates of PUFs were not different from primary FEVAR, operating time was significantly longer in patients undergoing FEVAR for failed EVAR. Fenestrated EVAR can be a valuable and safe tool to treat patients with progression of aortic disease or type Ia endoleak after EVAR but may be more complex to achieve than primary FEVAR.

Clinical Impact

This retrospective study assesses the technical outcome of fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (fenestrated EVAR; FEVAR) after prior EVAR. While rates of primary unconnected fenestrations were not different from primary FEVAR, operating time was significantly longer in patients undergoing FEVAR for failed EVAR. Fenestrated EVAR after prior EVAR may be technically more challenging than primary FEVAR procedures, but could be performed with equally good results in this patient cohort. FEVAR offers a feasible treatment option for patients with progression of aortic disease or type Ia endoleak after EVAR.
Legislative Gridlock and Policymaking Through the Appropriations Process
Authors: Ryan Josh M. , Minkoff Scott L.
Published: May 2023

Divergent preferences within and across American lawmaking institutions make it difficult to enact legislation. Yet, individual legislators and parties have incentives to effect policy change, even during periods of gridlock. We claim appropriations offer an alternative means of policymaking when legislation is likely to be unsuccessful using authorizations because appropriations bills have an extreme reversion point. Using an original dataset of appropriations laws, we measure the quantity of policy enacted given distributions of House, Senate, and executive preferences. The findings show that a larger gridlock interval and greater distance between the House and Senate medians promote the use of appropriations bills as substantive policymaking vehicles. This effect is especially pronounced when new chamber majorities come to power. We conclude that divergent preferences among lawmaking institutions affect legislative productivity, but winning coalitions can still make substantive policy changes using unorthodox lawmaking processes.
The Effect of Amnion Cell Culture Medium on Wound Healing: An Experimental Animal Study
Authors: Bilgic Tayfun
Published: May 2023

Background/objective

Fetal wound repair seems a relatively efficient process when compared to wound repair during adulthood, which may be explained by the effects of the fetal environment. This study examined the effects of an amnion cell culture medium (ACCM) on skin wound healing in a rat experimental model.

Methods

Sixteen adult female Wistar albino rats were used in this experimental animal study (treatment group, n  =  8; control group, n  =  8). Surgical wounds were formed on the dorsal skin of each rat. A commercially available ACCM was administered daily over each of the wound in the treatment group for 14 days and the control group did not receive any treatment. Wounds were evaluated for tissue perfusion with laser doppler, tissue superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as well as histopathological examination.

Results

Controls had significantly higher tissue SOD levels when compared to the treatment group (10.0  ±  3.2 vs 6.7  ±  1.2, P  =  .005); however, the 2 groups did not differ in terms of tissue GPX and MDA levels. For open wounds, inflammation and neovascularization were more prominent in the ACCM group at day 14. However, at day 21 neovascularization and granulation were more prominent in controls. For closed wounds, neovascularization was more prominent in controls at days 14 and 21. The 2 groups did not differ in terms of tissue perfusion.

Conclusion

Although marginal difference was found between controls and ACCM group for several parameters, findings of this study do not support beneficial effect of ACCM on wound healing.
Exploring the College Choice of Latina/o Students in Rural Texas
Authors: Lopez Juan , Droogsma Musoba Glenda
Published: May 2023

Latina/o rural students are underrepresented in college and the research of their college choice process. Using Bourdieu’s habitus, and Yosso’s Community Cultural Wealth Conceptual Model, this qualitative study used interviews with 24 Latina/o rural high school students. Our findings explored how school habitus limits college options. Students use navigational capital when selecting a “good program” and rely on familial-capital, high aspirations, and other forms of capital to choose a college.
Measuring Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Young Adults Born Preterm: Comparison of Manual Versus Semi-automated B-Mode Ultrasound
Authors: El Jalbout Ramy , Flahault Adrien , Shahi Amirali , Bigras Jean-Luc , Cloutier Anik , Dubois Josée , Nuyt Anne-Monique , Luu Thuy-Mai
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Young adults born very preterm have increased cardiovascular risks. While intima-media thickness of the common carotid artery is an early marker of atherosclerosis in adults, the most reliable method of its measurement is not established in this population. The purpose of this study is to compare manual and semi-automated B-mode ultrasound intima-media thickness measurement techniques in adults born very preterm and full-term. Methods: Intima-media thickness was measured in adults 18 to 29 years born very preterm (<30 weeks’ gestation) or full-term (≥37 weeks’ gestation) using B-mode ultrasound. Analyses included intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and relationships with prematurity status, age, body mass index, and metabolic and respiratory comorbidities. Results: There were 86 preterm-born participants (58% women) and 85 full-term (56% women), mean age 23 ± 2 years. Intra-observer agreement was better using semi-automated (ICC = 0.89; 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.86-0.91]) than manual measurement (ICC = 0.73; 95% CI = [0.65-0.79]). Measures obtained using both techniques did not detect any differences according to prematurity status, did not correlate with age, and moderately correlated with body mass index. The semi-automated technique showed higher intima-media thickness values in men vs women and overall gave higher values. Results obtained through both techniques moderately correlated with each other when looking at subgroups: preterm group ICC of 0.53, full-term group ICC of 0.62. Conclusion: Manual and semi-automated intima-media thickness measurements moderately correlate in young adults. The semi-automated technique is more reproducible. Both techniques are useful in discriminating intima-media thickness according to weight. This study identifies variance of results according to different techniques of measurements. Adherence to a single technique is recommended in young adults born prematurely. Clinical implication includes adherence to the same technique for risk stratification and for follow-up of these patients.
What can evidence accumulation modelling tell us about human social cognition?
Authors: Parker Samantha , Ramsey Richard
Published: May 2023

Evidence accumulation models are a series of computational models that provide an account for speeded decision-making. These models have been used extensively within the cognitive psychology literature to great success, allowing inferences to be drawn about the psychological processes that underlie cognition that are sometimes not available in a traditional analysis of accuracy or reaction time (RT). Despite this, there have been only a few applications of these models within the domain of social cognition. In this article, we explore several ways in which the study of human social information processing would benefit from application of evidence accumulation modelling. We begin first with a brief overview of the evidence accumulation modelling framework and their past success within the domain of cognitive psychology. We then highlight five ways in which social cognitive research would benefit from an evidence accumulation approach. This includes (1) greater specification of assumptions, (2) unambiguous comparisons across blocked task conditions, (3) quantifying and comparing the magnitude of effects in standardised measures, (4) a novel approach for studying individual differences, and (5) improved reproducibility and accessibility. These points are illustrated using examples from the domain of social attention. Finally, we outline several methodological and practical considerations, which should help researchers use evidence accumulation models productively. Ultimately, it will be seen that evidence accumulation modelling offers a well-developed, accessible, and commonly understood framework that can reveal inferences about cognition that may otherwise be out of reach in a traditional analysis of accuracy and RT. This approach, therefore, has the potential to substantially revise our understanding of social cognition.
A novel approach based on fault tree analysis and Bayesian network for multi-state reliability analysis of complex equipment systems
Authors: Luo Xiaofang , Li Yushan , Bai Xu , Tang Rongkeng , Jin Hui
Published: May 2023

Due to the complex structure of multi-state complex systems and the lack of data, information, and knowledge, the uncertainty of the logical relationship between the failure states of systems and components and the uncertainty of related failure data become the key issues in the reliability analysis of multi-state complex systems. In this paper, combined with multi-state fault tree (MSFT), a multi-state reliability assessment framework for complex systems considering uncertainty based on multi-source information fusion and multi-state Bayesian network (MSBN) is proposed. The multi-source information fusion method combines historical data and experts’ opinions to solve the uncertainty problem of multi-state failure data in complex equipment systems effectively. Based on the multi-source information fusion method, the calculation method of multi-state prior probability and the construction method of conditional probability are given. By constructing the conditional probability table (CPT), the uncertain logic relationship between the multi-state nodes is effectively expressed, which effectively improves the efficiency of CPT acquisition for MSBN and reduces the workload of experts scoring. Finally, a mud circulating system is taken as an example to prove the proposed method, and the specific calculation process, evaluation results, and some discussions are given. The results show that the proposed method is an effective multi-state reliability analysis method for complex uncertain multi-state systems.
Why are students with a higher level of grit more engaging in learning? The mediation effect of negotiable fate on the grit-student engagement relationship in higher education during COVID-19
Authors: Yau Oscar K.T. , Shu Tse-Mei
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered learning and teaching approaches in higher education. Research concerning COVID-19 revealed inconsistent results on student engagement, which is a robust predictor of academic performance in higher education. This exploratory study examines the relationship between grit and student engagement in the pandemic through the mediating role of negotiable fate. Although previous research demonstrated that grit could positively predict student engagement, there have been inconsistent findings between the two sub-factors of grit: consistency of interest (grit-CI) and perseverance of effort (grit-PE). Besides, there is a lack of theoretical explanation of the mechanism between grit and engagement. The adaptation of negotiable fate seeks to provide one of the pathways of how grit would be associated with student engagement. To examine these hypotheses, the present study recruited 339 undergraduate students from two universities in Hong Kong to participate in an online survey. The results showed that grit, grit-PE, and negotiable fate positively correlate with student engagement, but the path of grit-CI did not reveal any significant results. After accounting for the mediating effect of negotiable fate, grit-PE still positively correlates with student engagement, suggesting a partial mediation model. This study provides empirical evidence that grit positively predicts student engagement with the mediation of negotiable fate. However, only grit-PE was positively associated with other variables, while grit-CI did not reveal any significant predictions. The present study (1) extends the understanding of the mechanism between grit and student engagement and (2) explores the mediating role of negotiable fate in this relationship in the higher education context. Theoretical and practical implications of this mediation model among grit, negotiable fate, and student engagement were discussed.
News Coverage of the Nile Dam Crisis in Chinese, Qatari and British Media: Exploring Proximity to Egypt and Ethiopia as a Framing Influence on CGTN, AJE and BBC's Reporting
Authors: El Damanhoury Kareem
Published: May 2023

Academic literature points to proximity, including geographic, political, economic, and cultural, as a key news value that influences media attention, sourcing, and visual framing across conflicts. Focusing on the prolonged Nile Dam crisis that has put Egypt and Ethiopia on the verge of military conflict, the study uses quantitative and qualitative content analyses to explore how China, Qatar and the UK's proximity to Egypt and Ethiopia relates to the framing of the conflict in China Global Television Network (CGTN), Al Jazeera English (AJE), and British Broadcasting Corporation's (BBC) English-language news articles and photographs online in 2019-2021. While proximity factored in AJE's more frequent coverage of the dispute, the study reveals how media systems and dependency on news agencies can mitigate proximity's impact on coverage and how temporary political tensions and economic aspirations can prompt more favorable reporting of the least culturally, linguistically, geographically, economically, and/or politically proximate country.
Aloin Induces Gastric Cancer Cell Apoptosis via the miR-5683/HMGB1 Signal Axis
Authors: Chen Xuelei , Wu Xiaoming , Ge Fei , Cheng Jin , Cheng Zhenyu , Qi Zhilin
Published: May 2023

Background: Recent studies conducted by us indicate that aloin (ALO) could promote gastric cancer (GC) cell apoptosis, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) has been reported to regulate the apoptosis, proliferation, and migration of several cancer types. Bioinformatics analysis suggests a possible targeted regulatory relationship between miR5683 and HMGB1. Purpose: Herein, we aimed to investigate the possible role of the miR-5683/HMGB1 axis in ALO-induced GC cell apoptosis. Methods: The expression levels of miR-5683 and HMGB1 in GC tissue and adjacent normal tissue were investigated using bioinformatics analysis, and their expressions at the cellular levels were determined using reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting (WB) assays. The interaction between miR-5683 and HMGB1 was predicted in the TargetScan database and verified by a dual-luciferase assay. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by the cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) assay, 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, and flow cytometry. WB was used to examine the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins and HMGB1. Results: Our data showed that ALO promoted GC cell apoptosis, downregulated HMGB1, upregulated miR-5683 expression, and dual-luciferase assay confirmed the interaction between HMGB1 and miR-5683. Moreover, miR-5683 mimics enhanced ALO-induced GC cell apoptosis and the inhibitory effects of ALO on the levels of HMGB1. However, miR-5683 inhibitors showed the opposite effects. Conclusion: Our data suggested that ALO promotes GC cell apoptosis through the miR-5683/HMGB1 axis.
The political benefits of student loan debt relief
Authors: SoRelle Mallory E , Laws Serena
Published: May 2023

Are people likely to reward politicians who support canceling student loan debt? This paper draws on original conjoint and survey experimental data to assess the effects of student debt relief proposals on voter behavior. Using data collected 3 months prior to Biden’s announcement of a specific plan for broad-based student debt relief, the paper addresses two interrelated questions: How do policy details—such as eligibility restrictions and the amount of debt canceled—shape voter support for candidates who embrace student loan cancellation? And second, will executive action by President Biden increase Democrats’ chances of winning in 2022 or 2024? We find evidence to suggest that candidates who support student debt relief plans offering generous debt cancellation while minimizing eligibility restrictions get the largest boost in support from voters, especially for key Democratic constituencies. We also find that executive action on student debt increases the likelihood that key groups would support Democratic congressional candidates in upcoming electoral contests. These results offer the first systematic evidence exploring the potential political ramifications of enacting student debt relief.
Neural networks based on attention architecture are robust to data missingness for early predicting hospital mortality in intensive care unit patients
Authors: Zeng Zhixuan , Liu Yang , Yao Shuo , Liu Jiqiang , Xiao Bing , Liu Chenxue , Gong Xun
Published: May 2023

Background

Although the machine learning model developed on electronic health records has become a promising method for early predicting hospital mortality, few studies focus on the approaches for handling missing data in electronic health records and evaluate model robustness to data missingness. This study proposes an attention architecture that shows excellent predictive performance and is robust to data missingness.

Methods

Two public intensive care unit databases were used for model training and external validation, respectively. Three neural networks (masked attention model, attention model with imputation, attention model with missing indicator) based on the attention architecture were developed, using masked attention mechanism, multiple imputation, and missing indicator to handle missing data, respectively. Model interpretability was analyzed by attention allocations. Extreme gradient boosting, logistic regression with multiple imputation and missing indicator (logistic regression with imputation, logistic regression with missing indicator) were used as baseline models. Model discrimination and calibration were evaluated by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, area under precision-recall curve, and calibration curve. In addition, model robustness to data missingness in both model training and validation was evaluated by three analyses.

Results

In total, 65,623 and 150,753 intensive care unit stays were respectively included in the training set and the test set, with mortality of 10.1% and 8.5%, and overall missing rate of 10.3% and 19.7%. attention model with missing indicator had the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.869; 95% CI: 0.865 to 0.873) in external validation; attention model with imputation had the highest area under precision-recall curve (0.497; 95% CI: 0.480–0.513). Masked attention model and attention model with imputation showed better calibration than other models. The three neural networks showed different patterns of attention allocation. In terms of robustness to data missingness, masked attention model and attention model with missing indicator are more robust to missing data in model training; while attention model with imputation is more robust to missing data in model validation.

Conclusions

The attention architecture has the potential to become an excellent model architecture for clinical prediction task with data missingness.
Workflow assessment of an augmented reality application for planning of perforator flaps in plastic reconstructive surgery: Game or game changer?
Authors: Berger Matthias Fabian , Winter Raimund , Tuca Alexandru-Cristian , Michelitsch Birgit , Schenkenfelder Bernhard , Hartmann Robert , Giretzlehner Michael , Reishofer Gernot , Kamolz Lars-Peter , Lumenta David Benjamin
Published: May 2023

Objective

In contrast to the rising amount of financial investments for research and development in medical technology worldwide is the lack of usability and clinical readiness of the produced systems. We evaluated an augmented reality (AR) setup under development for preoperative perforator vessel mapping for elective autologous breast reconstruction.

Methods

In this grant-supported research pilot, we used magnetic resonance angiography data (MR-A) of the trunk to superimpose the scans on the corresponding patients with hands-free AR goggles to identify regions-of-interest for surgical planning. Perforator location was assessed using MR-A imaging (MR-A projection) and Doppler ultrasound data (3D distance) and confirmed intraoperatively in all cases. We evaluated usability (System Usability Scale, SUS), data transfer load and documented personnel hours for software development, correlation of image data, as well as processing duration to clinical readiness (time from MR-A to AR projections per scan).

Results

All perforator locations were confirmed intraoperatively, and we found a strong correlation between MR-A projection and 3D distance measurements (Spearman r = 0.894). The overall usability (SUS) was 67 ± 10 (=moderate to good). The presented setup for AR projections took 173 min to clinical readiness (=availability on AR device per patient).

Conclusion

In this pilot, we calculated development investments based on project-approved grant-funded personnel hours with a moderate to good usability outcome resulting from some limitations: assessment was based on one-time testing with no previous training, a time lag of AR visualizations on the body and difficulties in spatial AR orientation. The use of AR systems can provide new opportunities for future surgical planning, but has more potential for educational (e.g., patient information) or training purposes of medical under- and postgraduates (spatial recognition of imaging data associated with anatomical structures and operative planning). We expect future usability improvements with refined user interfaces, faster AR hardware and artificial intelligence-enhanced visualization techniques.
The 15th International Conference of Students of Systematic Musicology (SysMus22)
Authors: Ayyildiz Ceren , Korsmit Iza Ray , Carvalho Rúben , von Schnehen Andres
Published: May 2023

The International Conferences of Students of Systematic Musicology (SysMus) are a series of interdisciplinary student-run conferences with the aim of promoting intellectual exchange between early-career researchers in various fields of systematic musicology. In 2022, the 15th conference was hosted by the Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music (IPEM) in Ghent, Belgium, and was held in a hybrid format, allowing researchers to be present and participate in the events in person and online. SysMus22 comprised 43 posters, 23 presentations, 6 workshops, a panel discussion, musical demonstrations, and 3 musical performances. Topics were as diverse as music cognition, psychology, health and well-being, music theory and performance, technology, and philosophy, among others. Adding to the richness and diversity of topics were keynote lectures given by Psyche Loui (MIND Laboratory, Northeastern University), Mendel Kaelen (Wavepaths), and Rebecca Schaefer (Music, Brain, Health & Technology Laboratory, Leiden University). The whole conference was marked by a friendly, warm, and stimulating atmosphere, encouraging the exchange of ideas between all participants and particularly among researchers at the beginning of their academic careers in systematic musicology. This report provides an overview of SysMus22, the topics it covered, and the format it employed, with a critical discussion of the benefits and challenges posed by the hybrid format.
Coats Plus Syndrome Presenting in an Adult
Authors: Kayarian Fae B. , Cohen Steven M. , Cohen Mark L. , Sammartino Daniel E.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: To present a case of retinal vascular disease characterized primarily by capillary nonperfusion in an adult with Coats plus syndrome (CPS). Methods: A case and its findings were analyzed. Results: A 38-year-old woman with a history of poliosis, thrombocytopenia, seizures, and white-matter brain lesions was referred for evaluation of bilateral blurred central vision. Fluorescein angiography showed extensive bilateral retinal capillary nonperfusion with retinal arteriolitis in the right eye. Genetic testing found 2 pathological mutations in the conserved telomere maintenance component 1 ( CTC1) gene, diagnostic of CPS. Conclusions: Genetic testing may be diagnostic in patients who present with retinal vascular disease and systemic disease suggestive of CPS.
The Differential Preliminary Belief in Prevention: The Case of Adolescents’ Problem Behaviors
Authors: Israelashvili Moshe , Hannani Nahhas Abeer
Published: May 2023

Current literature on the barriers to the implementation of prevention efforts highlights circumstantial organizational and personal factors. However, the possibility that there is a more profound individual difference in people’s preliminary Belief in the Ability to Prevent (BIP; Israelashvili, 2018 ) has not yet been investigated. To explore this possibility, two sequential studies were performed on the case of adolescents’ problem behaviors. Study 1 ( N = 200) examined the utility of a new measurement of BIP. Respondents were adolescents and adults (parents and teachers), living in northern Israel, who evaluated each of the vignettes in terms of the possibility of preventing the emerging adolescent’s problem behavior. Results from Study 1 supplied preliminary support for this research tool’s structure and validity, and demonstrated that there is variance in BIP scores and that past exposure to problem behaviors, especially suicidal behavior, is associated with lower BIP scores. Assuming that BIP emerges on the basis of cultural background and life experiences, Study 2 ( N = 995) explored possible sex, age, and cultural differences and their accumulating contribution to explaining the variance in BIP. Based on MANCOVA analyses, the results from Study 2 support the hypothesized background differences and show that at-risk adolescents have lower levels of BIP. An additional tree analysis suggests that a person’s perception regarding the possibility of preventing more common problem behaviors, rather than extreme behaviors, serves as the basis upon which BIP is established. It is suggested that BIP is an additional possible variable that is related to people’s reluctance to collaborate with, and respond to, prevention efforts. Implications for implementation science are suggested.
Unintended consequences of disseminating behavioral health evidence to policymakers: Results from a survey-based experiment
Authors: Purtle Jonathan , Nelson Katherine L. , Lê-Scherban Félice , Gollust Sarah E.
Published: May 2023

Background

Communication research demonstrates that messages often have unintended consequences, but this work has received limited attention in implementation science. This dissemination experiment sought to determine whether state-tailored policy briefs about the behavioral health consequences of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), compared to national policy briefs on the topic, increased state legislators’/staffers’ perceptions of the policy brief relevance and parental blame for the consequences of ACEs, and whether effects differed between Democrats and Republicans.

Method

A preregistered, web-based survey experiment with U.S. state legislators/staffers was conducted in 2021 ( n  =  133). Respondents were randomized to view a policy brief about the behavioral health consequences of ACEs that included state-tailored data (intervention condition) or national data (control condition) and then answered survey questions. Dependent variables were perceived policy brief relevance and parental blame for the consequences of ACEs.

Results

The mean policy brief relevance score was 4.1% higher in the intervention than in the control condition ( p  =  .24), but the mean parental blame score was 16.5% higher ( p  =  .02). When outcomes were dichotomized, 61.2% of respondents in the intervention condition rated parents as “very much to blame” for the consequences of ACEs compared to 37.1% in the control condition ( p  =  .01). When the sample was stratified by political affiliation, the effect of the state-tailored policy brief on parental blame was larger in magnitude among Democrats and not significant among Republicans. The intervention policy brief increased the mean parental blame score by 22.8% among Democrats relative to the control policy brief ( p  =  .007) and doubled the proportion rating parents as “very much to blame” (52.2% vs. 26.1%, p  =  .03).

Conclusions

Despite limited statistical power, state-tailored policy briefs significantly increased state legislators’/staffers’ perceptions of parental blame for the behavioral health consequences of ACEs, relative to a policy brief with national data. Unintended messaging effects warrant greater attention in dissemination research and practice.
Interteam Learning in Multiteam New Product Development Programs
Authors: Tsai Jacob Chia-An , Jiang Randi , Chang Jamie Yi-Ting , Wu Tim Yueh-Ying
Published: May 2023

Learning is a fundamental aspect of innovative new product development (NPD), and research shows that failures are a source of learning in NPD programs. However, little is known about the role of learning from successful experiences. We develop a model for learning from both success and failure, based on the characteristics of multiteam systems (MTS) and product complexity. Quantitative analysis of 167 NPD programs organized as MTS suggests that learning from success is crucial for NPD innovation at all levels of product complexity, while the effectiveness of learning from failure diminishes with increasing product complexity. Qualitative interviews provide further insights.
On the Road to Digital Transformation: A Literature Review of IT Program Management
Authors: Wu Xiaosong (Jason) , Klein Gary , Jiang James J.
Published: May 2023

Program management continues to gain traction as an approach to managing the development and implementation of advanced information technology (IT). The guidance and structure provided by program principles and processes enhance an organization’s ability to achieve the benefits of a large-scale IT deployment. However, realizing the benefits of contemporary IT to support organizational strategy is proving problematic. In this study, we conduct a conceptual and critical review of the IT program management literature to determine the current research in achieving success and develop frameworks that encourage coordinated studies to address further benefits from IT programs with differing strategic purposes.
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 regulation of Kv1.4 channels in trigeminal ganglion neurons contributes to nociceptive behaviors
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wang Hua , Sun Yufang , Huang Zitong , Tao Yu , Wang Yiru , Jiang Xinghong , Tao Jin
Published: May 2023

Background

Trace amines, such as tyramine, are endogenous amino acid metabolites that have been hypothesized to promote headache. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unknown.

Methods

Using patch-clamp recording, immunostaining, molecular biological approaches and behaviour tests, we elucidated a critically functional role of tyramine in regulating membrane excitability and pain sensitivity by manipulating Kv1.4 channels in trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons.

Results

Application of tyramine to TG neurons decreased the A-type K+current (IA) in a manner dependent on trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1). Either siRNA knockdown of Gαo or chemical inhibition of βγ subunit (Gβγ) signaling abrogated the response to tyramine. Antagonism of protein kinase C (PKC) prevented the tyramine-inducedIAresponse, while inhibition of conventional PKC isoforms or protein kinase A elicited no such effect. Tyramine increased the membrane abundance of PKCθin TG neurons, and either pharmacological or genetic inhibition of PKCθblocked the TAAR1-mediatedIAdecrease. Furthermore, PKCθ-dependentIAsuppression was mediated by Kv1.4 channels. Knockdown of Kv1.4 abrogated the TAAR1-inducedIAdecrease, neuronal hyperexcitability, and pain hypersensitivity. In a mouse model of migraine induced by electrical stimulation of the dura mater surrounding the superior sagittal sinus, blockade of TAAR1 signaling attenuated mechanical allodynia; this effect was occluded by lentiviral overexpression of Kv1.4 in TG neurons.

Conclusion

These results suggest that tyramine induces Kv1.4-mediatedIAsuppression through stimulation of TAAR1 coupled to the Gβγ-dependent PKCθsignaling cascade, thereby enhancing TG neuronal excitability and mechanical pain sensitivity. Insight into TAAR1 signaling in sensory neurons provides attractive targets for the treatment of headache disorders such as migraine.