bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of SRY-Related High Mobility Group Box 9 on Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase/p38 Signaling Pathway in Glioma
Authors: Quan Tianlong , Zhang Chunhua , Song Xin , Wang Lu
Published: April 2021

As a common malignant tumor in neurosurgery, glioma is characterized as high incidence rate, easy to invade, metastasize and recurrent. It is difficult to treat and has a poor prognosis. The gliomas pathogenesis is complex and has not been fully resolved. Therefore, finding effective
molecular targets for glioma is beneficial to improve therapeutic effect. The SRY-related high mobility group box 9 (SOX9) gene involves in mammalian development and is significantly increased in glioma. However, SOX9’s role in gliomas is unclear. The glioma cell line U87 was assigned
into control group, scramble group that was transfected with siRNA negative control, and SOX9 siRNA group that was transfected with SOX9 siRNA followed by analysis of SOX9 mRNA and protein level by qPCR and Western blot, cell proliferation by MTT assay, cell apoptosis by Caspase 3 activity
assay, cell invasion by Transwell assay, and MMP-9 level by ELISA. SOX9 siRNA transfection significantly downregulated SOX9 mRNA and protein expressions, inhibited U87 cell proliferation, enhanced Caspase 3 activity, suppressed cell invasion of U87, decreased the secretion of MMP-9 in the
supernatant, and reduced ERK1/2 and P38 phosphorylation levels (P < 0.05). SOX9 can regulate the progression of glioma by regulating ERK/P38 signaling pathway, promoting cell apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, and restraining cell invasion.
Study of the Characteristics of the Pulmonary Vein and Superior Vena Cava of Rabbits
Authors: Wang Pan , Yang Xin-Chun , Liu Xiu-Lan , Bao Rong-Feng , Ding Huai-Yu , Li Ou , Liu Tai-Feng
Published: April 2021

Background: This study aims to (1) investigate the characteristics of the action potential and triggering activity of cardiomyocytes in the pulmonary vein (PV) and superior vena cava (SVC) of rabbits and (2) study the features of cation currents in cardiomyocytes in rabbit PV
and SVC-inward rectifier potassium current (IK1), transient outward potassium current (Ito), and non-selective cation currents (INSCC). Methods: The standard glass microelectrode and whole-cell patch-clamp techniques were used to record the action potential
and various currents in the above cells. Results: (1) Cardiomyocytes in either PV or SVC had longer action potential durations than in the adjacent atrium, and spontaneous early after depolarization (EAD) could occur in both PV and SVC under normal physiological conditions. (2) The
action potential in PV cardiomyocytes had a relative refractory period but did not have an absolute refractory period, and this characteristic enabled a premature beat that triggered a second plateau response, which led to EAD. (3) INSCC was found for the first time in the PV, SVC,
and atria. (4) The current intensity of IK1, Ito, and INSCC was significantly lower in the PV and SVC than in the left and right atria, and the difference in the current intensity in INSCC could influence the action potential. Conclusions:
PV and SVC can both initiate and maintain AF, but PV is the primary ectopic foci in initiating AF. The present study found that the second plateau response was easily induced in cardiomyocytes in PA shortly after depolarization. This was a specific characteristic of the action potential of
PV. In addition, we preliminarily analyzed the differences in the main outward currents and noted a voltage-dependent INSCC in both PV and SVC rabbits’ cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, the current intensities of IK1, Ito, and INSCC were significantly
lower in the PV and SVC than in the left and right atria, and the difference in the current intensity of INSCC influenced the action potential. The different permeability of INSCC for cations at different phases may play a role in inducing EAD.
Early Diagnosis of Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus by Deep Learning Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Xin , Bai Lu , Ge Zuhao , Lin Zhizhe , Yang Xi , Zhou Teng
Published: April 2021

The neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) has higher disability and mortality rates, which is one of the main causes of death in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) can detect the changes of metabolites in different intracranial
areas in vivo in patients with SLE, so as to provide evidence for the early diagnosis of NPSLE. Different from the conventional single-voxel MRS, which can only screen one brain region with one metabolic change, we simultaneously detect 13 kinds of intracranial metabolic changes in
nine brain regions by multivoxel proton MRS (MVS). We use a recursive feature elimination algorithm to select the most related metabolites for better identifying NPSLE. To accurately diagnosis NPSLE by these intracranial metabolites, we train a support vector machine deep stacked network (SVM-DSN)
for quantitative analysis of these metabolites. Comparing with the conventional statistic method, which is about 70% of accuracy, the proposed model achieves 97.5% of accuracy for NPSLE diagnosis. We conclude the trained SVM-DSN can effectively analyze the metabolites obtained by multivoxel
proton MRS for NPSLE diagnosis, which may help to early diagnosis and intervention of NPSLE, and alleviate the bias of manual screening.
A Novel Variable Weight Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm in Medical Image Fusion
Authors: Elaiyaraja K. , Kumar M. Senthil
Published: April 2021

Medical image fusion (MIF) is essential in clinical domain that integrates the multi-modal medical features to a unique frame known as fused image which finds utility in diagnosis process. Scaling based approaches are the commonly used multimodal MIF model where the generalized scaling
has a stationary scale value selection that enhances the fusion quality Discrete Wavelet Transform (db4)-based approaches give a maximum amount of approximation in multi-modal medical image fusion, while using less edge features. For generating efficient edge features, Laplacian filtering
(LF) approach is employed. This paper introduces an optimized Laplacian Wavelet Mask (OLWM) based fusion model for multi-modal MIF using Variable Weight Grey Wolf Optimization (VW-GWO). An enhanced GWO algorithm with variable weights (VW-GWO) is faced with the idea of using the social hierarchy
of the grey wolves to locate the searching positions. Besides, to minimize the possibility of trapping into local optima, an efficient parameter control mechanism is employed. The VW-GWO algorithm has the capability to choose the control variables of the GWO algorithm in an automated way.
A set of medical images, including MR-SPECT, MR-PET, MR-CT and MR: T1–T2 of brain scans, validates the proposed VW-GWO algorithm. The simulation outcome showed that the effectiveness of the VW-GWO algorithm seems to be much higher over the compared methods under various dimensions.
Detection of Architectural Distorted Region in Mammogram Images Using Hybrid Classification Approaches
Authors: Sathesh Raaj R. , Thirumurugan P.
Published: April 2021

The architectural distorted regions in mammogram images are detected and segmented using computer aided hybrid classification approach in this paper. The main importance of this research work is to provide a computer aided methodology for screening the distorted regions in mammogram
images. In present approach, the classification accuracy of the conventional methods is not suitable for further diagnosis process such as malignant and benign. Hence, the main objective of this paper is to develop an efficient architectural region detection method using soft computing method
with high classification accuracy for further diagnosis purpose. This proposed method has two stages of the proposed flow as architectural distorted detected mammogram image and segmentation of architectural distorted regions in mammogram images. The first stage of this proposed method uses
Random Forest (RF) classification method which classifies the source mammogram image into either normal or abnormal. In second stage of the proposed method, the abnormal image is further classified into either Benign or Malignant using Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) classification
approach. The proposed methodology for architectural distorted region detection is tested on the publicly available mammogram datasets Mammographic Image Analysis Society (MIAS) and Digital Database for Screening Mammography (DDSM) respectively. In this paper, the mammogram images from MIAS
dataset are grouped into normal case (156 images), benign case (122 images) and malignant case (98 images). The mammogram images from DDSM dataset are grouped into normal case (144 images), benign case (112 images) and malignant case (145 images). The overall average detection rate of the
proposed system on the mammogram images in MIAS dataset is about 98.7%. The overall average detection rate of the proposed system on the mammogram images in DDSM dataset is about 98.3%. The extensive simulations are carried out on the mammogram images which are obtained from these dataset
and the results are compared with stated of art methods.
Water-Soluble Elastomeric Carboxymethyl Chitosan as an Efficient Binder for Si Anodes of Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Liang Bo , Chen Xu , Chen Chuansheng , Liu Zhengchun
Published: April 2021

The binder acts a pivotal part in determining the mechanical and electrochemical performances of lithium-ion battery electrodes. Herein, a series of water-soluble Si anode binders based on carboxymethyl chitosan (C-Cs) and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) is developed. Water-soluble C-Cs
and aqueous emulsion SBR solution are mixed to form C-Cs/SBR binders. The physical properties of the modified Si electrode are investigated through electrolyte swelling test, peeling test, and scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical strength provided to Cu foils and active substances
by the C-Cs/SBR binder is higher than that produced by C-Cs. This performance can effectively reduce the stress/strain caused by the drastic volume change of the Si anodes during repeated uses and improve the electrochemical property of lithium-ion batteries. The initial thicknesses of the
Si electrodes with polyvinylidene fluoride, C-Cs, and C-Cs/SBR20 binders are approximately 7.1, 7.2, and 6.9 µm, respectively. After 100 cycles, their initial thicknesses increase to 11.2, 12.4, and 7.2 µm and correspond to expansions of 57.8%, 72.2%, and 4.3%, respectively.
The discharge capacity of Si electrodes containing C-Cs/SBR20 binder reaches to 1340 mAh·g−1 when the current density is 4 A·g−1, and reserves to be 1020 mAh·g−1 after undergoing 400 cycles of repeated use at
500 mA·g−1.
Nanofabrication Techniques: Challenges and Future Prospects
Authors: Tahir Usama , Shim Young Bo , Kamran Muhammad Ahmad , Kim Doo-In , Jeong Myung Yung
Published: April 2021

Nanofabrication of functional micro/nano-features is becoming increasingly relevant in various electronic, photonic, energy, and biological devices globally. The development of these devices with special characteristics originates from the integration of low-cost and high-quality micro/nano-features into 3D-designs. Great progress has been achieved in recent years for the fabrication of micro/nanostructured based devices by using different imprinting techniques. The key problems are designing techniques/approaches with adequate resolution and consistency with specific materials. By considering optical device fabrication on the large-scale as a context, we discussed the considerations involved in product fabrication processes compatibility, the feature’s functionality, and capability of bottom-up and top-down processes. This review summarizes the recent developments in these areas with an emphasis on established techniques for the micro/nano-fabrication of 3-dimensional structured devices on large-scale. Moreover, numerous potential applications and innovative products based on the large-scale are also demonstrated. Finally, prospects, challenges, and future directions for device fabrication are addressed precisely.
Gold Nanoparticles-Amplified Indirect Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay of BDE-121 Using a Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Qiao Yan , Cai Qing-Yun
Published: April 2021

In this study, we developed a monoclonal antibody against 2,3’,4,5’,6-pentabromodiphenylether (BDE-121) using a synthesized hapten, and established an indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (IC-ELISA), using gold nanoparticles, to amplify the signal. The
monoclonal antibody showed high specificity, with a half inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 2.78 ng/mL, towards BDE-121. The developed IC-ELISA exhibited high sensitivity and stability as well as good recovery. The intra-assay deviation is below 6.8% and the inter-assay deviations
range from 6.5% to 8.7%. The assay of the actual samples was found to be consistent with those of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).
Preparation and Antimicrobial Activity of Antibacterial Silver-Loaded Polyphosphazene Microspheres
Authors: Long Hui , Kuang Wei-Cong , Wang Shi-Liang , Zhang Jing-Xian , Huang Lang-Huan , Xiong Yong-Qiang , Qing Peng , Cai Xiang , Tan Shao-Zao
Published: April 2021

Poly(cyclotriphosphazene-co-4,4’-diaminodiphenyl ether) (PPO) microspheres were prepared via a precipitation polymerization method, using hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (HCCP) and 4,4’-diaminodiphenyl ether (ODA) as monomers. Silver-loaded PPO (PPOA) microspheres were generated by the in situ loading of silver nanoparticles onto the surface by Ag+reduction. Our results showed that PPOA microspheres were successfully prepared with a relatively uniform distribution of silver nanoparticles on microsphere surfaces. PPOA microspheres had good thermal stability and excellent antibacterial activity towardsEscherichia coliandStaphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, PPOA microspheres exhibited lower cytotoxicity when compared to citrate-modified silver nanoparticles (c-Ag), and good sustained release properties. Our data indicated that polyphosphazene-based PPOA microspheres are promising antibacterial agents in the biological materials field.
AutoCell Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment: The Software Designed and Developed for the Automated Screening System of Nucleic Acid Aptamers
Authors: Pei Yuhong , Wang Chao , Chen Zhu , Li Song , Chen Hui , Wang Zunliang , He Nongyue
Published: April 2021

Aptamers are a new kind of nano-probes for bioassays and drug delivery, etc. In this paper, software has been developed as an automatic control center for the automated aptamer selecting system which realized the high integration of aptamer selection, data acquisition and processing.
This software, applied in windows system, is developed by C# with the Microsoft Visual Studio 2015 integrated developing environment and the database used in this software is implemented using open source relational database MYSQL. According to the requirement analysis, this software realized
various important necessary functions including feasible experiment design, auto-control of the hardware, real time process monitoring and efficient data management which perfectly satisfies the users’ demands. During the actual experiment operation, this software worked smoothly and
assumed stable serial port communication between it and the hardware, meanwhile, the interaction between the software and MYSQL remained good stability. As a consequence, it is practical and reasonable to apply this software to the automated aptamer selecting system for research.
Hierarchical Brookite TiO2–Bi2MoO6 Nanospheres with Efficient Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Response
Authors: Ma Ying , Jia Yu-Long , Lin Yin-He , Shi Wen-Bing
Published: April 2021

Hierarchical TiO2–Bi2MoO6 nanospheres as efficient visible-light responsive photocatalyst are fabricated by dispersing brookite TiO2 nanorods on the hierarchical Bi2MoO6 nanospheres, which provides visible-light
absorption and large surface area. The morphologies, surface area and light absorption features of as-prepared TiO2–Bi2MoO6 can be rational controlled by varying the loading amount of TiO2 nanorods on hierarchical Bi2MoO6
nanospheres. As a result, the TiO2–Bi2MoO6-3 yields 380 ppm CO2 production for decomposing 2-propanol at 11 h under visible light irradiation, realizing 4.4 times enhancement of photocatalytic property with respect to pure TiO2 nanorods.
Moreover, the three-dimensional hierarchical architecture enables the hybrid TiO2–Bi2MoO6 excellent cycling stability.
Application of Nano-Insulin Pump in Children with Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Wang Jiao , Zhang Lihai , Wang Xianhe , Dong Jing , Chen Xiuhua , Yang Shuhe
Published: April 2021

Type 1 diabetes is an insulin-dependent type of diabetes that is most common among children. Due to absolute deficiency of insulin in patients, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) can easily ensue. Insulin pump can simulate the physiological secretion of islet, but increases the risk of pain
and infection in children due to its traumatic effect. This study aimed to analyze the application effect of nano-insulin pump in children with DKA. Children with DKA admitted to our hospital from May 2018 to May 2020 were included in this study and, according to the random number table method,
they were divided into two groups, with each group containing 36 cases. The first group received traditional insulin pump infusion (IP), while the second group received nano-insulin pump infusion (NIP). It was found that the reduction of FBG and PBG in NIP group was greater than that in IP
group. The recovery time of urine ketone, blood ketone, glucose, venous pH, and other clinical indicators in the NIP group were all lower than those in the IP group (P < 0.05). The length of hospital stay, insulin dosage, incidence of hypoglycemia, and infusion site infection rate
in the NIP group were all lower than those in the IP group (P <0.05). The findings indicate that the application of nano-insulin pump in children with DKA had a significant effect and could quickly and obviously correct the levels of blood glucose and ketone body in children.
Study of Soft/Hard Bimagnetic CoFe2/CoFe2O4 Nanocomposite
Authors: Coldebella E. H. , Chagas E. F. , Albuquerque A. P. , Prado R. J. , Alzamora M. , Baggio-Saitovitch E.
Published: April 2021

We report an experimental study of the bimagnetic nanocomposites CoFe2/CoFe2O4. The precursor material, CoFe2O4 was prepared using the conventional stoichiometric combustion method. The nano-structured material CoFe2/CoFe2O4
was obtained by total oxygen reduction of CoFe2O4 using a thermal treatment at 350 °C in H2 atmospheres following the partial oxidation in O2 atmospheres at 380 °C during 120; 30; 15, 10, and 5 min. The X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy
and transmission electronic microscopy images confirmed the formation of the material CoFe2/CoFe2O4. The magnetic hysteresis for the nanocomposite with different saturation magnetization (from 87 to 108 emu/g) also confirms the formation of the CoFe2/CoFe2O4
with different content of CoFe2O4. Furthermore, the magnetic hysteresis curves for all samples presented a single magnetic behavior, suggesting the magnetic coupling between the phases of the nanocomposite. The effects of high energy milling on the magnetic properties
of the precursor material and nanocomposites samples were evaluated.
Evaluation Humidity Sensing Properties of Graphene/HS-TiO2 Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhu Zhen , Lin Wang-De
Published: April 2021

This paper reports on a nanocomposite synthesized by sol–gel procedure comprising graphene sheets with hollow spheres of titanium dioxide (G/HS-TiO2) with varying weight percentages of graphene for the purpose of humidity sensors. The surface morphology of the nanocomposite
was characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The structural properties were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The response to 12–80% RH at room temperature exhibited
sensitivity (S = 135). However, the relative humidity range of 12–90% at room temperature exhibited higher sensitivity (S = 557). Sensors fabricated using the proposed nanocomposite exhibited high sensitivity to humidity, high stability, rapid response times, and rapid
recovery times with hysteresis error of less than 1.79%. These results demonstrate the outstanding potential of his material for the monitoring of atmospheric humidity. This study also sought to elucidate the mechanisms underlying humidity sensing performance.
Reasons Why the New Spanish Coalition Government Had to Adjust Its Foreign Affairs Policy Along Venezuela’s Political Position, the Sahara’s Conflict, and the Renewal of the U.S. Military Basis
Authors: Xuclà Jordi
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this article is to detect the lack of coincidence regarding foreign affairs in the electoral programs of the two members of the Spanish center-left coalition1. The main assumption of this article is that the Socialist Party maintains its foreign affairs program, while Unidas Podemos, the coalition partner, does not because it focuses its priorities on other areas of its political agenda at the sacrifice of foreign policy. This article explores the tensions and resignations experienced in the field of foreign policy by the two government partners. It also explains how both political forces had to revise their proposals in order to allow the formation of a new government. This article hypothesizes that the resignations have been greater by Unidas Podemos, and that the Socialist Party has been able to maintain the core of its doctrine on foreign policy, security, and defense. The main challenge that this government will face in the upcoming months is the enlargement of the agreement between Spain and the United States regarding the establishment of the U.S. Army at the Spanish military bases of Rota and Morón. Regarding the methodology, we analyzed the top articles literature to compare the political action of several European coalition governments in developing its foreign affairs policy.
The Association of the Affordable Care Act With Medicaid Enrollment Status and Costs of Care at a Level I Trauma Center in a Medicaid Non-expansion State
Authors: Nahouraii Michael R. , Cunningham Kyle W. , Sing Ronald F. , Sing Kelly E. , Christmas Ashley B.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

The intended purpose of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) was to expand access to health care insurance for all Americans. In our study, we examine the association of Medicaid enrollment status, health care outcomes, and financial outcomes for trauma patients at a level I urban trauma center in a state that did not expand Medicaid coverage under the ACA.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed trauma admissions from 2011 to 2016, via the trauma registry (n = 36,250). A subgroup of Medicaid patients (n = 8840) was identified and compared for changes in selected variables and demographics following ACA implementation. The association of Medicaid payor status, by 3 year average pre-ACA (n = 3516) and post-ACA (n = 3324), on patient outcomes, payments collected, and accrued costs of care were analyzed.

Results

Three-year Medicaid median actual payments decreased 7.5% following implementation of the ACA ($4072 vs. $3767, P < .01). In contrast, the Medicaid median total cost of care increased 23% ($3964 vs. $4882, P < .01). The rate of patients insured by Medicaid decreased (24.0% vs. 16.2%, P<.001). Patients were admitted longer (1 d vs. 2 d, P < .01), and more injured (ISS 5 vs. 6, P < .01).

Discussion

Medicaid payor status under the ACA was associated with a decrease in actual payments and an increase in total cost of care. Moreover, the divergence in actual payments collected with the increased total cost of care warrants examination to ascertain the root cause in efforts to reduce this widening gap.
Two-Trace Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy Study of the Crystallization Behavior of Bioplastics
Authors: Noda Isao
Published: April 2021

A pair of attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR IR) spectra obtained during the crystallization of bioplastic copolymer poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate- co-(R)-3-hydroxyhexanoate] or PHBHx from the melt by spontaneous cooling were examined using the two-trace two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2T2D-COS) analysis. Unlike conventional difference spectra, 2T2D spectra showed unexpected details for the patterns of spectral intensity changes, clearly revealing the existence of two distinct populations of crystalline contributions, attributed to the well-ordered primary crystals and the less ordered secondary crystals, in addition to the amorphous component. The 2T2D spectrum sorts out highly overlapped bands associated with different constituents of the system, based on the fundamental properties and constraint imposed on a pair of spectra. Hetero-mode asynchronous 2T2D correlation analysis between the congested CH–stretching region and better resolved carbonyl-stretching region further indicates that the increase in the intensities of certain methyl and methylene bands during the crystallization process is mostly associated with the growth of the well-ordered primary crystals of PHBHx instead of the formation of the secondary crystals in the confined inter-lamellar space.
Measurement of vitamin D in dried blood spots stored under different temperature conditions
Authors: Nybo Mads , Fruekilde Palle N , Andersen-Ranberg Karen
Published: April 2021

Background

As part of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) study, dried blood spot samples were obtained for measurement of potential biological biomarkers, among those vitamin D. Unfortunately, no studies describe the impact of high temperatures on dried blood spot samples and vitamin D measurements.

Materials and methods

Capillary samples were collected on dried blood spot cards from 40 outpatients (median age 78 years) along with venous blood samples. To mimic the different environmental and temporal challenges during collection and shipment until final storage in the SHARE study, dried blood spot cards were stored at different temperatures, at time span and with/without freeze-thaw. Vitamin D concentrations in venous plasma samples were measured by conventional immunoassay (on Architect i2000SR), while vitamin D concentrations in dried blood spot samples were measured using LC-MS/MS with a well-described extraction method and with relevant calibration and comparison with a reference method.

Results

Vitamin D measured in dried blood spot samples did not differ significantly from venous plasma measurements under the different storage conditions tested. The optimal vitamin D correlation between the two matrices was by storage at either 21°C or 35°C for four days (r = 0.9060 and 0.9026, respectively). Freeze-thaw of the dried blood spot samples did not have any significant effect.

Conclusion

We find that vitamin D measured in dried blood spot samples do not differ significantly from venous plasma measurements despite storage at different temperatures and freeze-thaw, which enables the use of dried blood spot in multicentre studies taking place under alternating temperature conditions.
An anarchist criminology for uncertain times
Authors: Ferrell Jeff
Published: April 2021

Anarchist practices of direct action, decentralization, leaderless resistance, and mutual aid animate many forms of progressive activism that today percolate around the globe. For a new generation of activists, such practices are part of a more general anti-authoritarian reorientation to social life and social change. Here I suggest that this reorientation is worth exploring on its own terms, given that misunderstanding is all but assured if we try to make sense of it in the context of more conventional approaches. I argue in turn that street-level anarchist practices can productively reengage contemporary criminology with an increasingly uncertain world; attune criminology to the contested political dynamics of the present day; and help confront the precarious status of criminology and its practitioners.
Ecological Interface Design and Head-Up Displays: The Contact-Analog Visualization Tradeoff
Authors: Schewe Frederik , Vollrath Mark
Published: April 2021

Objective

This study investigated how the visualization of an ecological interface affects its subjective and objective usefulness. Therefore, we compared a simple 2D visualization against a contact-analog 3D visualization.

Background

Recently, head-up displays (HUDs) have become contact-analog and visualizations have been enabled to be merged with the real environment. In this regard, ecological interface design visualizing boundaries of acceptable performance might be a perfect match. Because the real-world environment already provides such boundaries (e.g., lane markings), the interface might directly use them. However, visual illusions and undesired interference with the environment might influence the overall usability.

Method

To allow for a comparison, 49 participants tested the same ecological interface in two configurations, contact-analog (3D) and two dimensional (2D). Both visualizations were shown in the car’s head-up display (HUD).

Results

The driving simulator experiment reveals that 3D was rated as more demanding and more disturbing, but also more innovative and appealing. However, regarding driving performance, the 3D representation decreased the accuracy of speed control by 6% while significantly increasing lane stability by 20%.

Conclusion

We conclude that, if we want environmental boundaries guiding our behavior, the indicator for the behavior should be visualized contact-analog. If we desire artificial boundaries (e.g., speed limits) to guide behavior, the behavioral indicator should be visualized in 2D. This is less prone to optical illusions and allows for a more precise control of behavior.

Application

These findings provide guidance to human factors engineers, how contact-analog visualizations might be used optimally.
Impact of financial crisis on mental health: A literature review ‘puzzling’ findings from several countries
Authors: Volkos Panagiotis , Symvoulakis Emmanouil K
Published: April 2021

Background:

During the Great Recession of 2008 many of the European and other western economies had been affected with the unemployment rising and income shrinking. Daily lives of a country’s citizens always are affected by an economic downturn in various ways and mental health problems are expected to be worsen.

Aim:

The aim of this systematic review is to identify to what extent the economic crisis of the last decade has influenced mental health issues in daily life, by offering an in-depth analysis of such effect.

Methods:

PRISMA guidelines were followed and PubMed platform was used for the literature research. There were included articles that were published between 2009 and 2019. The search terms used were economic crisis and mental health. An extraction sheet was created to collect the results.

Results:

Thirty-five studies from several countries were included in this review. The results from this articles point out that specific social groups are more vulnerable during periods of economic crisis in terms of mental health impact. Depression, anxiety and stress are some of the most common outcomes. However, not all the evidence sources agree.

Conclusions:

Despite the disagreements, the economic downturn and its outcomes can effect negatively the psychological state either of the population as a whole or of specific subgroups. Mental health is largely affected by economy and regulatory adjustments of supportive care services are needed to buffer negative effects. Primary care could be a ‘remote access server’ of specific interventions designed to target vulnerable population groups. The development of strategies at a country level is essential in order to support the most vulnerable groups of the population during a recession period.
Abdias Nascimento and Brazilian Politics
Authors: Johnson Ollie
Published: April 2021

The 2016 impeachment of Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff and the decisions by new President Temer require us to focus on the life and work of Abdias Nascimento. Temer’s actions remind us that the recent efforts of Brazilian governments to be more racially inclusive and egalitarian have not been consolidated and that policies such as affirmative action, the teaching of Afro-Brazilian history and culture, and racial quotas in the public sector are at risk. Nascimento dedicated his life to fighting against White racism in Brazil and promoting government policies to improve social, economic, and political opportunities for Afro-Brazilians. He witnessed and experienced racial discrimination in his own life and observed various responses to it. Nascimento decided that he would denounce it, fight against it, organize Afro-Brazilians to empower themselves, and campaign for a racially inclusive, democratic, and prosperous country. He lived to see the early implementation of some of his policies. Nonetheless, he recognized that 500 years of White racism would not be defeated easily.
A Conceptual Model of Work-Family Balance Among Qatari Adults
Authors: Hong Peipei , Abdelmoneium Azza O. , Badahdah Abdallah M. , Grzywacz Joseph G.
Published: April 2021

Work-family balance is shrouded in conceptual ambiguity and WEIRD (western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic) understanding, which impedes scientific advancement and subsequent practical solutions. This qualitative study constructs a conceptual model of work-family balance among Qatari adults. Based on grounded theory methods, in-depth interview data from 20 Qatari adults (10 women and 10 men) indicated that work-family balance means meeting both work and family expectations. “Work” is driven primarily by family financial needs and therefore it must be undertaken for the sake of the family. However, work-family balance is an idealized goal; the demands of work, rising needs of the family, and insufficient supports make work-family balance impossible. Nevertheless, working adults actively pursue work-family balance through negotiation of expectations with role-related partners and adaptation to varying circumstances in work and family domains. Overall, the findings suggest that work-family balance is viewed by Qataris as a socially and relationally constructed concept.
Mental Health Outcomes for Female Inmates without a Mental Disorder: Imprisonment and Post-release Effects of Confinement with Women with a Mental Illness
Authors: Vaisman Diana Cantini , Einat Tomer
Published: April 2021

This study explores the well-being of women offenders without mental disorders during imprisonment and reentry after having been confined with mentally ill female inmates. We found that this joint confinement causes great distress to the mentally stable female inmates, harming both their mental, physical, and emotional condition and their reentry process and rehabilitation. Our findings led us to conclude that women prisoners should be separated from those with mental disorders or be offered a wide range of psychological and emotional coping tools as well as variety of rehabilitative treatment programs.
(Re)Membering: Black Women Engaging Memory through Journaling
Authors: Smith Dywanna , Kelly-Morris Katelyn , Chapman Shaniya
Published: April 2021

This manuscript is a confluence of voices: A Black university professor at a Historically Black University in the Southeast and her two pre-service teachers. Using journaling as a catalyst for transformative healing; three young, Black women discuss their intersecting identities and bear witness to each other’s memories. To resist racist representations Black women must confront the colonizing ideology by developing a critical consciousness. In short, we must confront massive hate by fully loving and embracing our Blackness. The study elucidates how selfactualization writing can cultivate healing while promoting academic success.
Event-triggered stochastic consensus for networked Lagrangian systems with semi-Markov switching topologies and communication delays
Authors: Pan Suying , Ye Zhiyong , Miao Zhonghua , Zhou Jin
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the event-triggered stochastic consensus for networked Lagrangian systems with semi-Markov switching topologies and communication delays is considered. An event-triggered sampling control strategy is used to design the distributed stochastic consensus scheme of networked Lagrangian systems for two cases with leader and leaderless. Two delay-dependent consensus criteria are derived in the sense of mean square by use of a suitable Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional and the stochastic delayed Halanay inequality, respectively. A key feature of the developed event-triggered consensus algorithm is to introduce a suitable adjustment parameter on consensus control gains characterizing the effect of both semi-Markov switching topology and communication delay. Finally, a numerical example of four manipulators with two links is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the developed event-triggered methodology.
Deductible Status in the Pediatric Population: A Barrier to Appropriate Care?
Authors: Torrecillas Vanessa F. , Neuberger Kaden , Ramirez Alexander , Knighton Andrew , Krakovitz Paul , Richards Nathan G. , Srivastava Raj , Meier Jeremy D.
Published: April 2021

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of high‐deductible health plans on elective surgery (tonsillectomy) in the pediatric population.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Health claims database from a third‐party payer.

Methods

Data were reviewed for children up to 18 years of age who underwent tonsillectomy or arm fracture repair (nonelective control) from 2016 to 2019. Incidence of surgery by health plan deductible (high, low, or government insured) and met or unmet status of deductibles were compared.

Results

A total of 10,047 tonsillectomy claims and 9903 arm fracture repair claims met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The incidence of tonsillectomy was significantly different across deductible plan types. Patients with met deductibles were more likely to undergo tonsillectomy. In patients with deductibles ≥$4000, a 1.75‐fold increase in tonsillectomy was observed in those who had met their deductible as compared with those who had not. These findings were not observed in controls (nonelective arm fracture). For those with met deductibles, those with high deductibles were much more likely to undergo tonsillectomy than those with low, moderate, and government deductibles. Unmet high deductibles were least likely to undergo tonsillectomy.

Conclusions

Health insurance plan type influences the incidence of pediatric elective surgery such as tonsillectomy but not procedures such as nonelective repair of arm fracture. High deductibles may discourage elective surgery for those deductibles that are unmet, risking inappropriate care of vulnerable pediatric patients. However, meeting the deductible may increase incidence, raising the question of overutilization.
Impact of Completion Lymphadenectomy on Quality of Life for Head and Neck Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Farlow Janice L. , McLean Scott A. , Peddireddy Nithin , Bradford Carol R. , Malloy Kelly M. , Stucken Chaz L. , VanKoevering Kyle K. , Spector Matthew E. , Rosko Andrew J.
Published: April 2021

Objective

Recent randomized data suggest that completion lymph node dissection after a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) improves locoregional control but does not improve survival for melanoma patients. Locoregional recurrences of head and neck cutaneous melanoma (HNCM) may result in significant morbidity. A better understanding of morbidity is thus important to inform decisions about whether to pursue completion neck dissection (ND).

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Academic tertiary care hospital.

Methods

Clinical data were collected for patients with HNCM seen between 2016 and 2019 who were at least 1‐year disease free. Each patient completed the Self‐administered Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (SLANSS), Neck Dissection Impairment Index, and SF‐36 (Short Form–36). Scores were compared by surgical treatment: wide local excision (WLE) only, SLNB, and ND. Univariate and multivariable regression was performed.

Results

Of 474 patients, 140 returned questionnaires (29.5% response rate; WLE, n = 49; SLNB, n = 76; ND, n = 15). No significant differences in SLANSS or Neck Dissection Impairment Index scores were found between the WLE and SLNB groups. SLANSS scores differed by 2 SD (P =. 001) in the ND cohort, which had a 36% rate of neuropathy. Neck impairment was worse by 1 SD (P =. 01) in the ND cohort. No differences were found in SF‐36 domains.

Conclusion

Neuropathy and neck impairment are components of morbidity after ND. These risks must be balanced with potential morbidity of locoregional recurrence in HNCM.
Voice Quality and Laryngeal Findings in Patients With Suspected Lung Cancer
Authors: Davis Ruth J. , Messing Barbara , Cohen Neri M. , Akst Lee M.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To describe laryngeal findings and voice quality in patients with suspected lung cancer, relative to voice quality and possible laryngeal pathology.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

Patients with known or suspected lung cancer were approached before planned thoracic surgery, and they completed acoustic analysis, the Voice‐Related Quality of Life (V‐RQOL) questionnaire, and stroboscopy. The prevalence of dysphonia, V‐RQOL and Cepstral Spectral Index of Dysphonia (CSID) scores, and laryngeal findings were examined and compared between patients ultimately found to have lung cancer and those without cancer.

Results

Sixty‐one patients (45 cancer, 16 noncancer) were analyzed. Patients with cancer were older than those without (mean ± SD, 72.3 ± 9.94 vs 62.6 ± 9.30 years; P =. 001). Otherwise, the distribution of stroboscopy findings, acoustic measures, and self‐reported voice handicap were similar between the cancer and noncancer cohorts. Prior to surgery, no patients had vocal cord paralysis or obvious neoplasm, though 4 (6.56%) had leukoplakia and 28 (45.9%) had vocal fold movement asymmetry on stroboscopy. Overall, 21 patients (35.0%) had average CSID scores >19, and 13 (21.7%) had CSID scores >24; however, only 4 self‐described their voice as not working as it should, and only 2 had a V‐RQOL score <85.

Conclusion

Patients with suspected lung cancer have moderate dysphonia on acoustic measures, though self‐reported impact on quality of life is low. While leukoplakia was seen in 4 patients, obvious neoplasm and occult paralysis were not seen in this cohort. Together, these findings suggest that patients with suspected lung cancer should be assessed for subjective voice dysfunction, but routine laryngeal screening may otherwise be unnecessary.
Prognostic Significance of Radiologic Extranodal Extension in Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Karakurt Eryılmaz Melek , Kadıyoran Cengiz
Published: April 2021

Objective

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prognostic value of radiologic extranodal extension (rENE) in patients with nasopharyngeal cancer.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Tertiary university hospital.

Methods

We identified patients with nasopharyngeal cancer and lymph node metastasis who underwent pretreatment neck computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging and evaluated rENE from the involved lymph node. Univariate Kaplan‐Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to compare rENE+ and rENE– groups for local regional relapse–free survival, distant metastasis–free survival, and overall survival.

Results

Of 61 cases, 24 (39.3%) were rENE+ and 37 (60.7%) were rENE–. The median follow‐up was 65.5 months. The 5‐year distant metastasis–free survival and overall survival rates were lower in the rENE+ group than the rENE– group (70.8% vs 89.2%, P =. 016; 66.7% vs 89.2%, P =. 01, respectively). Differences in locoregional control between the groups were not significant (P =. 18). The 5‐year rates for local regional relapse–free survival were 87.5% for rENE+ and 91.9% for rENE–. In multivariate analysis, the presence of rENE was a significant independent adverse prognostic factor for distant metastasis–free survival and overall survival.

Conclusions

We showed that rENE is an independent prognostic factor for poor distant control and survival in patients with nasopharyngeal cancer.
The problem of asymmetric representation: The marginalisation, racialisation, and deservedness of Roma in Slovenia
Authors: Zevnik Andreja , Russell Andrew
Published: April 2021

Special rights (such as a right to representation) are often used to address under-representation of minority and marginalised groups in political institutions. The case of Roma community in Slovenia is no different. Using a framework of social and political marginalisation, our article outlines asymmetry and exceptionality in the existing minority protection provisions for Slovenian Roma. We argue that the existing provisions are a consequence of majority’s perception of Roma as racialised, marginalised, and undeserving group. We show that the limited access to special rights for Roma is not an oversight in the Slovenian democratic institutional design but a result of deep-rooted stereotypes and racialisation that this marginalised group is subjected to. More broadly, the case of Slovenian Roma demonstrates how principles of racialisation and marginalisation can help us understand absences of different marginalised minority groups from frameworks of special protection.
Examining the test-retest reliability and construct validity of the Six-Spot Step Test in older adults with self-reported balance problems
Authors: Brincks John , Callesen Jacob
Published: April 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the test-retest reliability and construct validity of the Six-Spot Step Test in older adults.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Outpatient clinics.

Subjects:

Sixty-six adults aged ⩾65 years with self-reported balance problems.

Main measure:

The Six-Spot Step Test was completed twice on day 1. Three days later, the Six-Spot Step Test, the Timed “Up and Go” test, Dynamic Gait Index, the Mini-BESTest, and standing balance test were conducted. Reliability and validity were estimated using Bland-Altman statistics, minimal detectable change, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (ρ).

Results:

Participants had a mean (SD) age of 75.5 (6.6) years, a median ( Q1– Q3) Montreal Cognitive Assessment test score of 26 (24–27), and a median ( Q1– Q3) Falls Efficacy Scale International score of 22 (20–26). The study found within-day and between-day limits of agreements of ±15.7% and ±18.1%, respectively. The minimal detectable changes at the 95% level of confidence for within-day and between-day were 17.5% and 21.6%, and the ICCs were 0.96 (CI: 0.92–0.98) and 0.94 (CI: 0.86–0.97), respectively. A learning effect was observed between the first and second Six-Spot Step Test. Moderate to strong correlations were found between the Six-Spot Step Test and Mini-BESTest (ρ = −0.62), Dynamic Gait Index (ρ = −0.55), and the Timed “Up and Go” test (ρ = 0.79). Weak correlations were identified between the Six-Spot Step Test and static standing balance test (ρ < 0.38).

Conclusion:

The Six-Spot Step Test shows excellent relative consistency and moderate to high construct validity in older adults. A change of 21.6% is a true change in outcome.