bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost-effectiveness of Artificial Intelligence for Proximal Caries Detection
Authors: Schwendicke F. , Rossi J.G. , Göstemeyer G. , Elhennawy K. , Cantu A.G. , Gaudin R. , Chaurasia A. , Gehrung S. , Krois J.
Published: November 2020

Artificial intelligence (AI) can assist dentists in image assessment, for example, caries detection. The wider health and cost impact of employing AI for dental diagnostics has not yet been evaluated. We compared the cost-effectiveness of proximal caries detection on bitewing radiographs with versus without AI. U-Net, a fully convolutional neural network, had been trained, validated, and tested on 3,293, 252, and 141 bitewing radiographs, respectively, on which 4 experienced dentists had marked carious lesions (reference test). Lesions were stratified for initial lesions (E1/E2/D1, presumed noncavitated, receiving caries infiltration if detected) and advanced lesions (D2/D3, presumed cavitated, receiving restorative care if detected). A Markov model was used to simulate the consequences of true- and false-positive and true- and false-negative detections, as well as the subsequent decisions over the lifetime of patients. A German mixed-payers perspective was adopted. Our health outcome was tooth retention years. Costs were measured in 2020 euro. Monte-Carlo microsimulations and univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and the cost-effectiveness acceptability at different willingness-to-pay thresholds were quantified. AI showed an accuracy of 0.80; dentists’ mean accuracy was significantly lower at 0.71 (minimum–maximum: 0.61–0.78, P < 0.05). AI was significantly more sensitive than dentists (0.75 vs. 0.36 [0.19–0.65]; P = 0.006), while its specificity was not significantly lower (0.83 vs. 0.91 [0.69–0.98]; P > 0.05). In the base-case scenario, AI was more effective (tooth retention for a mean 64 [2.5%–97.5%: 61–65] y) and less costly (298 [244–367] euro) than assessment without AI (62 [59–64] y; 322 [257–394] euro). The ICER was −13.9 euro/y (i.e., AI saved money at higher effectiveness). In the majority (>77%) of all cases, AI was less costly and more effective. Applying AI for caries detection is likely to be cost-effective, mainly as fewer lesions remain undetected. Notably, this cost-effectiveness requires dentists to manage detected early lesions nonrestoratively.
Legislative preparedness for the control of pandemics – using Taiwan as an example
Authors: Su Yi-Chen
Published: November 2020

At the early stage of an emerging disease, information is often insufficient for governments to determine what actions are necessary to contain its transmission. Taiwanese society was not prepared when the SARS epidemic hit in 2003. After the SARS epidemic, Taiwan began to overhaul its Communicable Disease Control Act authorising the government to act in a murky situation without the fear of violating due process. In hindsight, the new law has contributed a large part to the effective containment of Covid-19 in Taiwan. However, a new issue emerged concerning the conflict between an individual’s freedom of confidential communication and the government’s use of cell phone positioning to monitor self-quarantine. Although Taiwan’s Council of Grand Justices previously resolved the concern over potential breaching of due-process, the legislature may have to strike a balance between public health emergency and the use of an electronic footprint to trace individual activities.
A Tale of Two Marxisms: Remembering Erik Olin Wright (1947–2019)
Authors: Burawoy Michael
Published: November 2020

Intended to capture the entangled history of Marxism, Alvin Gouldner’s two Marxisms also frame the intellectual biography of Erik Olin Wright. In the 1970s Wright’s Scientific and Critical Marxisms were joined, but later they came apart as each developed its own autonomous trajectory. Erik’s Scientific Marxism was the program of class analysis that first brought him international fame. Begun in graduate school, it tailed off in the last two decades of his life, when it played second fiddle to the Critical Marxism of the Real Utopias Project that Erik began in the early 1990s.
Understanding Home Renovation as a Material Future-Making Practice
Authors: Cook Julia
Published: November 2020

This article considers whether home renovation can be understood as a material future-making practice. By drawing together studies of memory and domestic spaces and material futures it considers how each field can be expanded by focusing on the specific ways in which domestic futures are anticipated and formed. Data from a 2018 interview and photovoice-based study of Australian young adults’ pathways into and experiences of homeownership are presented in order to demonstrate how the participants’ depictions, understandings and experiences of renovation were intertwined with anticipatory practices and imaginings. The findings are used to demonstrate that the participants’ generation of material futures was both purposive and relationally based, challenging existing depictions of material futures as incidentally and individually formed. The article ultimately advocates for research on private, domestic futures as a key, and yet underexplored means of contending with the ‘wicked problems’ that occupy sociological research on futures.
Revisiting the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 1221 Hypothesis: Treatment for Stage III/IV HPV‐Negative Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Jacobs Daniel , Torabi Sina J. , Park Henry S. , Rahmati Rahmatullah , Young Melissa R. , Mehra Saral , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: November 2020

Objective

In 2014, the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 1221 trial was initiated to analyze whether surgery with risk‐based radiation therapy or chemoradiation therapy was superior to chemoradiation therapy alone in patients with clinically staged T1‐2N1‐2bM0 HPV‐negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. However, the study was prematurely terminated. Given the lack of a randomized controlled trial, we retrospectively approached the same question using large national cancer databases.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The National Cancer Database and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program from 2010 to 2016.

Methods

We identified 3004 patients in the National Cancer Database and 670 patients in the SEER database. Statistical techniques included Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis, binary and multinomial logistic regressions, Cox proportional hazard regressions, and inverse propensity score weighting.

Results

On weighted multivariable Cox regression, patients recommended to receive frontline surgery had improved overall survival as compared with those recommended to receive chemoradiation therapy alone (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77; 95% CI, 0.68‐0.86). On post hoc multivariable analysis based on therapy actually received, frontline surgery with adjuvant chemoradiation therapy was associated with improved overall survival (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.50‐0.71) as compared with chemoradiation therapy without surgery. Analysis of the SEER cohort revealed improved overall survival (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54‐0.87) and head and neck cancer–specific survival (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.41‐0.84) in patients recommended to receive frontline surgery over chemoradiation therapy alone.

Conclusion

Our findings support the use of surgery with risk‐based addition of adjuvant therapy in patients with cT1‐2N1‐2bM0 HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancer.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of valproic acid in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Hunt Megan F , Clark Katharine T , Grant Michael C , Choi Chun Woo , Whitman Glenn , Cho Sung-Min , Farrokh Salia
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving therapy for those in cardiopulmonary failure, including post-cardiac arrest. Despite a high volume of ECMO patients using anti-seizure medication, there is a paucity of data concerning the dosing, levels, and clinical scenarios for their use.

Case Report:

We present three cases of ECMO patients post-PEA arrest who were on valproic acid (VPA) for treatment of seizure and/or myoclonus. The total and free levels of VPA are reported.

Discussion:

The trough levels are consistent throughout therapy, suggesting VPA is not significantly removed by the ECMO circuitry. Although the total serum levels remained below the toxic range, the free level was elevated in two patients. These patients did not develop signs of toxicity.

Conclusion:

VPA may be an effective anti-seizure medication in ECMO patients. Free VPA levels should be more readily available to better quantify efficacy or toxicity, especially in ECMO patients.
Recognizing youth radicalization in schools: Slovenian ‘frontline’ school workers in search of a compass
Authors: Beršnak Janja Vuga , Prezelj Iztok
Published: November 2020

International research shows that youth is one of the groups that are the most vulnerable and most susceptible to radicalization. Some of the research findings show school workers’ lack of academic knowledge and practical experience with radicalized youth. As a result, they correlate general criminality with radicalization. The purpose of this study was to identify school workers’ readiness for detecting radicalization and taking preventive measures before the youth step on the path of radicalization. The authors applied a qualitative approach and conducted interviews and focus groups with 23 experts from the Slovenian educational system (i.e. top-down from the ministerial level and bottom-up from the primary and secondary school level). The results revealed that school workers can recognize vulnerable youth and are equipped with the appropriate knowledge and experience in terms of how to respond to different types of violence, but not radicalization. Even the elements that could be recognized as first steps in the radicalization process are reduced to deviant behaviour or simply peer violence. Bearing in mind this critical finding, school workers nevertheless are able to recognize certain types of deviant behaviour and know how to address them. By recognizing the problem and taking appropriate action, school workers can actually (unintentionally) prevent the continuation of the radicalization process.
The gap between attitudes and processes related to ‘family-friendly’ practices in anaesthesia training in New Zealand: A survey of anaesthesia supervisors of training and departmental directors
Authors: Carter Jane C , Garden Alexander L
Published: November 2020

Gender inequity persists within the anaesthetic workforce, despite approaching numerical parity in Australia and New Zealand. There is evidence, from anaesthesia and the wider health workforce, that domestic gender norms regarding parental responsibilities contribute to this. The creation of ‘family-friendly’ workplaces may be useful in driving change, a concept reflected in the gender equity action plan developed by the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists. This study aimed to explore the extent to which a family-friendly culture exists within anaesthesia training in New Zealand, from the perspective of leaders in anaesthesia departments. An electronic survey composed of quantitative and qualitative questions was emailed to all supervisors of training, rotational supervisors and departmental directors at Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists accredited training hospitals in New Zealand. Twenty-eight of the 71 eligible participants responded (response rate 39%). The majority (61%) agreed with the statement ‘our department has a “family friendly” approach to anaesthesia trainees’; however, there was a discrepancy between views about how departments should be and how they actually are. Several barriers contributing to this discrepancy were identified, including workforce logistics, governance, departmental structures and attitudes. Uncertainty in responses regarding aspects of working hours, parental leave and the use of domestic sick leave reflect gaps in understanding, with scope for further enquiry and education. To redress gender bias seriously through the development of family-friendly policies and practices requires supportive governance and logistics, along with some cultural change.
Combined onabotulinumtoxinA/atogepant treatment blocks activation/sensitization of high-threshold and wide-dynamic range neurons
Authors: Melo-Carrillo Agustin , Strassman Andrew M , Schain Aaron J , Adams Aubrey Manack , Brin Mitchell F , Burstein Rami
Published: November 2020

Background

OnabotulinumtoxinA and agents that block calcitonin gene‒receptor peptide action have both been found to have anti-migraine effects, but they inhibit different populations of meningeal nociceptors. We therefore tested the effects of combined treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA and the calcitonin gene‒receptor peptide antagonist atogepant on activation/sensitization of trigeminovascular neurons by cortical spreading depression.

Material and methods

Single-unit recordings were obtained of high-threshold and wide-dynamic-range neurons in the spinal trigeminal nucleus, and cortical spreading depression was then induced in anesthetized rats that had received scalp injections of onabotulinumtoxinA 7 days earlier and intravenous atogepant infusion 1 h earlier. The control group received scalp saline injections and intravenous vehicle infusion.

Results

OnabotulinumtoxinA/atogepant pretreatment prevented cortical spreading depression-induced activation and sensitization in both populations (control: Activation in 80% of high-threshold and 70% of wide-dynamic-range neurons, sensitization in 80% of high-threshold and 60% of wide-dynamic-range neurons; treatment: activation in 10% of high-threshold and 0% of wide-dynamic-range neurons, sensitization in 0% of high-threshold and 5% of wide-dynamic-range neurons).

Discussion

We propose that the robust inhibition of high-threshold and wide-dynamic-range neurons by the combination treatment was achieved through dual blockade of the Aδ and C classes of meningeal nociceptors. Combination therapy that inhibits meningeal C-fibers and prevents calcitonin gene‒receptor peptide from activating its receptors on Aδ-meningeal nociceptors may be more effective than a monotherapy in reducing migraine days per month in patients with chronic migraine.
Atrial fibrillation and migraine with aura in young adults with ischemic stroke
Authors: Gollion Cédric , Gazagnes Julie , Fabry Vincent , Barbieux-Guillot Marianne , Lerebours Fleur , Larrue Vincent
Published: November 2020

Background

Migraine is associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. The associations are stronger in migraine with aura than in migraine without aura, in women than in men, and in younger subjects. However, the mechanisms by which migraine might increase the risk of ischemic stroke are debated.

Methods

We analysed the associations between migraine without aura and migraine with aura and the causes of ischemic stroke in patients aged 18–54 years treated consecutively in a university hospital stroke center.

Results

A total of 339 patients (mean/SD age 43.8/8.8 years, 62.83% male) were included. Migraine with aura was diagnosed in 58 patients, and migraine without aura in 54 patients. Patients with migraine with aura were younger and had fewer traditional cardiovascular risk factors than patients with no migraine. Migraine with aura was strongly associated with atrial fibrillation (odds ratio, 5.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.24–21.92; p = 0.011) and negatively associated with atherosclerosis (odds ratio, 0.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.05–0.97; p = 0.033) and small vessel disease (odds ratio, 0.13; 95% confidence interval, 0.00–0.87; p = 0.022). No other cause of stroke was significantly associated with migraine. The most common cause of stroke was atherosclerosis in no-migraine patients, dissection in migraine without aura patients and patent foramen ovale in migraine with aura patients. Atrial fibrillation was, together with dissection, the second leading cause of stroke in migraine with aura patients, accounting for 10.34% of cases in this subgroup.

Conclusion

We showed that atrial fibrillation was a common cause of ischemic stroke in young adults with migraine with aura.
Prenatal and early postnatal exposure to radiofrequency waves (900 MHz) adversely affects passive avoidance learning and memory
Authors: Azimzadeh Mansour , Jelodar Gholamali
Published: November 2020

Prenatal and early postnatal are the most sensitive and high-risk periods to expose to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). This study aimed to investigate the effect of prenatal and early postnatal exposure to 900 MHz radiofrequency waves (RFWs) emitted from a base transceiver station antenna on passive avoidance learning and memory (PALM) and hippocampus histomorphology. Female Sprague Dawley rats (190–230 g) were paired with males. The mated rats, confirmed by observing a vaginal plug, were divided into two groups; control and exposed. The control group ( n = 7) was not exposed to RFW. The exposed group was divided into three subgroups ( n = 8); exposed Ⅰ, exposed during the gestational period (fetal life), and exposed Ⅱ and Ⅲ (postnatal exposure), exposed to RFW during the first 21 days of life, for 2 h/d and 4 h/d, respectively. PALM was evaluated by a shuttle box in 45-day-old pups. Learning and memory of animals were demonstrated as the duration of remaining within the light area, which is called the lighting time. Histological sections were prepared from brain tissues and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. An impairment in the PALM performance was noticed in all exposed subgroups (Ⅰ, Ⅱ, and Ⅲ) ( p < 0.05). Learning (short-term memory) and retention (long-term memory) behaviors were more affected in exposed subgroup Ⅰ (prenatal exposed) compared to other postnatal exposed subgroups (Ⅱ and Ⅲ). Also, a mild decrease in the density of pyramidal cells was observed in the hippocampus of exposed subgroups (Ⅰ and Ⅲ). Prenatal and early postnatal exposure to 900 MHz RFW adversely affected PALM performance and hippocampus tissue in rat pups with more impact for prenatal period exposure.
Assisted Nursing: A Case Study of an Infant With a Complete Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Lopez-Bassols Indira
Published: November 2020

Background

This case presents a mother’s feeding experience of an infant born with a complete unilateral cleft lip and palate from birth until both were repaired. She fed him directly at the breast with assistance, controlling the delivery of the mother’s own milk. The infant received only his mother’s own milk, no bottles, and the excess expressed milk was donated to a milk bank.

Main issue

The Cleft Team supported the mother’s wish to breastfeed but expressed realism that cleft lip and palate infants could not create suction. Success had never been observed in the unit. Instead, the team suggested expressing to deliver as much of the mother’s own milk. The mother had previously breastfed her three children and was keen on finding innovative ways to breastfeed.

Management

Several techniques were trialed with the help of an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. The most sustainable and successful was the use of a nipple shield applied to the maternal nipple areola complex to cover the lip palate. Underneath, a nasogastric tube connected to a syringe delivered the mother’s own milk. Exclusive expressing protected maternal supply, the infant’s nutrition and growth were monitored carefully and this technique reinforced mother–infant bonding.

Conclusion

Feeding with the modifications was challenging at times. However, maternal satisfaction was high because the mother had achieved her goal of breastfeeding without assistance post cheiloplasty and palatoplasty. This case adds to the limited body of research about feeding infants with cleft lips and palates directly at the breast.
Severe Lactational Mastitis With Complicated Wound Infection Caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Maier Josefine Theresia , Daut Julia , Schalinski Elisabeth , Fischer-Medert Toni , Hellmeyer Lars
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Puerperal mastitis, a complication occurring during the breastfeeding period, is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Here we report on severe streptococcal mastitis in a lactating breast, with subsequent invasive disease and wound healing problems.

Main issue

The 41-year-old woman (G2, P2) presented at 2 weeks postpartum to our hospital with painful swelling and reddening of the left breast, in addition to fever and malaise, and complained about a nipple fissure on the left breast. Previously, her 4-year-old son was treated for an acute otitis media and her husband experienced flu-like symptoms.

Management

Due to the severity of the symptoms, Clindamycin antibiotic treatment was initiated intravenously. Streptococcus pyogenes was isolated in the milk. This strain is commonly known to cause infections of the upper respiratory tract, skin, and soft tissue, but rarely mastitis. Furthermore, the participant developed invasive disease with abscess formation and skin erosion with a milk fistula. Special dressing was applied to promote wound healing. The participant continued breastfeeding well into the child’s 2nd year of life.

Conclusion

This rare form of complicated mastitis with invasive disease caused by Streptococcus pyogenes called for an interdisciplinary approach. We want to draw attention to other pathogens causing mastitis and to alert health care workers to promote hygiene in lactating women to prevent transmission.
Conceptualizing Responsible Return to Work: Corporate Social Responsibility in Relation to Employee Return to Work after Cancer
Authors: Branicki Layla , Kalfa Senia , Brammer Stephen
Published: November 2020

Demographic change, improvements in medical screening and treatment, evolving patterns of work, and eroding social security systems are contributing to greater numbers of seriously and chronically ill employees within the workforce. This study builds upon research in Corporate Social Responsibility and return to work (RTW) to conceptualize responsible return to work (RRTW). The study draws upon first-hand accounts of Australian women breast cancer survivors to inductively theorize the factors influencing RRTW practices. RTW practices that accommodate illness as required by law and regulation are found to be insufficient to meet employees’ needs and expectations and significant challenges for RTW are caused by this frame of reference and the distinction between medically certificated and non-medically certificated leave. Interactions between the economic case for creating mutual benefit through cooperation between employer and employee and the moral case for on-going tailored workplace adaptations as part of RRTW are critically evaluated.
Flow, process forces and strains during Friction Stir Welding: A comprehensive First principle approach
Authors: Bajaj Dhruv , Siddiquee Arshad Noor , Zaman Khan Noor , Mukhopadhyay AK , Khan Mohammed Sohail M A , Chen Daolun , Gangil Namrata
Published: November 2020

Friction stir welding is recent yet spectacular process, which assumes accrescent expanse to evolve as a multi-purpose process. Its potential is greatly being tapped through large-scale experimental and computer simulation-based investigations. Several simulation and empirical models have been proposed but exact fundamental analyses on forces, material flow and strain are still absent. Complexities associated with the process are perhaps the main reason that a fundamental analysis is difficult. A comprehensive analysis of this kind is critical for understanding the evolution of microstructure, mechanical properties of joint and defect formation. This study presents an analysis of material flow, process forces and strains using first principle approach. Results have been presented as exact mathematical expressions in terms of material properties and process parameters. It was demonstrated that the material during stirring experiences direct and shear strains both when it moves from advancing side to retreating side in front of the tool and after rotation deposits behind the tool. It was also demonstrated that the strain significantly reduced from advancing to retreating side; for a typical case the shear strain greater than 10,000% prevails in advancing side and the maximum shear strain on retreating side is of the order of 6000%.
Fault diagnosis of flexible production line machining center based on PCA and ABC-LVQ
Authors: Xia Yuanmeng , Wang Wei , Song Zhiyong , Xie Zhaoling , Chen Xuezhen , Li Hai
Published: November 2020

A fault diagnosis method of flexible production line machining center based on principal component analysis (PCA) and artificial bee colony based learning vector quantization (ABC-LVQ) neural network is proposed to target the issue of key vulnerable parts of the flexible production line machining center. Along with that, a general scheme of fault diagnosis is designed according to the characteristics of flexible production line which includes multiple machining centers. Firstly, the acceleration sensor is used to collect the vibration signals of the key and critical components of the flexible production line machining center, to analyze and pick up the multi-information characteristics, the time domain, the frequency domain and the time-frequency domain of the signals. Then, in order to reduce the dimension of the eigenvector, PCA is adopted to realize such reduction. Finally, aiming at the problem that LVQ neural network is sensitive to the initial value weights, an ABC algorithm is proposed to quickly obtain excellent initial weights vector of LVQ neural network, which can accurately classify all kinds of faults. The experimental results show that the scheme can diagnose and monitor several key components of horizontal machining center of flexible production line in a quick and accurate manner.
Environmental assessment of a hybrid system composed of solid oxide fuel cell, gas turbine and multiple effect evaporation desalination system
Authors: Jehandideh Sobhan , Hassanzade Hasan , Shakib Seyyed Ehsan
Published: November 2020

This study deals with a solid oxide fuel cell- gas turbine (SOFC-GT) hybrid system coupled with a multi-effect evaporation desalination plant with steam condensation. The environmental evaluation is also done due to the importance of waste energy recovery especially waste heat in power generation systems. The evaporation desalination plant is studied for using the excess heat to produce freshwater. The thermodynamic relationships governing different components of the system are first provided, including fuel cells, heat exchangers, gas turbine, and desalination plant. Next, given the absence of previous research on the environmental effects of cogeneration systems, despite its necessity, the study system is analyzed from an environmental point of view. Accordingly, the impacts of the system performance parameters, including the fuel consumption coefficients, compressor pressure ratio, fuel pre-reforming percentage, and the steam to carbon ratio are investigated on the CO2, CO, and NOx emission rates. Based on the findings, it is concluded that of different species, the impacts of CO, CO2, and NOx emission rates are significant on the environment. Thus, the impacts of pressure ratio and pre-reforming percentage on their emission rates have been studied. The results revealed with increasing the compressor pressure ratio, increasing the fuel consumption coefficients, and decreasing the fuel cell's exhaust temperature, the CO and NOx emission rates and corresponding social costs diminished. On the other hand, with elevation of the ratio of steam to carbon, the recovery rate, the fuel cell's exhaust temperature, the concerned gas emission rates, and corresponding social costs increased.
Pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart block and neonatal lupus syndrome: A series of four cases
Authors: Maltret Alice , Morel Nathalie , Levy Marilyne , Evangelista Martina , Malekzadeh-Milani Sophie , Barbet Patrick , Costedoat-Chalumeau Nathalie , Bonnet Damien
Published: November 2020

Objective

Neonatal lupus syndrome has multisystemic manifestations among which pulmonary involvement has been rarely reported. We describe the clinical presentation, management, and outcome of a series of four neonates who developed reversible pulmonary hypertension associated with auto-immune congenital complete heart block.

Method

Data from the French registry of neonatal lupus syndrome were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Between 2000 and March 2020, 231 children were included in the French registry, four/73 followed in our institution developed pulmonary hypertension. Diagnosis was suspected on transthoracic echocardiography at a median age of 42 days [range 10-58], and confirmed by right heart catheterization in all; 2 of them where paced at time of diagnosis and 2 were not. All had some degree of hypoxemia and respiratory distress. Hypoxemia was always reversible under O2 et NO. Lung CT demonstrated ground glass anomalies in all. One patient had a lung biopsy consistent with pulmonary hypertension secondary to lung disease. Management included immunosuppressive therapy in 3 associated with sildenafil in 2. Pulmonary hypertension resolved in all at a median age of 4 weeks [range 3-6] after treatment initiation and after one year for the one child who did not receive specific treatment.

Conclusion

Clinical, hemodynamical, imaging and histological findings advocate for pulmonary hypertension associated with respiratory disease as a rare manifestation of neonatal lupus syndrome.
Grade Expectations: When 100% Isn’t Good Enough
Authors: Ruppert Bryan , Hoption Colette
Published: November 2020

Embracing a positive-psychology approach to well-being, this study aimed at identifying how to maximize students’ pleasure when receiving grades. Results from two experiments showed that students gained greater pleasure when receiving feedback in letter-grade format than in percentage scores. The results are consistent with social–psychological and sociocognitive research wherein coarser (as opposed to more granular) feedback is easier to process, provides superior self-affirming feedback, and, subsequently, garners greater pleasure. As the management discipline wrestles with being “too scientific,” an impression aligned with precise percentage scores, use of a coarser feedback system may present a unique auxiliary benefit to the discipline. We invite future research on whether a system can be too coarse, on faculty’s amenability to coarse grading systems, and on the concurrent use of multiple grading systems varying in coarseness.
Narcissism for Fun and Profit: An Empirical Examination of Narcissism and Its Determinants in a Sample of Generation Z Business College Students
Authors: Wood Aaron D. , Borja Karla , Hoke Leon
Published: November 2020

The Millennial Generation is frequently identified with narcissistic behavior. However, less work has examined the narcissism of the subsequent generational cohort, Generation Z. In this article, we review the literature on the relationship between narcissism and undergraduate academic major in a college of business, campus involvement, and several demographic variables. We then conduct a study ( N = 660) to evaluate subclinical narcissism and its relationship to those choices and traits among contemporary undergraduate business college students using the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) and the Single Item Narcissism Scale (SINS). Results reveal one of the highest mean NPI scores in the literature, corroborating prior findings concerning elevated narcissism among business students and providing a piece of evidence concerning intergenerational narcissism. Then, using a set of regression models, we find that NPI scores are higher among finance majors, leaders of student organizations, males, younger students, extrinsically religious students, and non-White students. The SINS is supported as a valid measure of subclinical narcissism. We then discuss how these findings have influenced our approach to course policy and classroom management, and we outline directions for future research based on this exploratory study of Generation Z college students.
Evolution of combinatorial structure in learned forms through embodied iterated learning in a robot collective
Authors: Erbas Mehmet Dincer
Published: November 2020

In this study, we use mobile robots as physical entities to model the iterated learning of collections of forms that consist of randomly generated movement sequences. The robots implement an abstract model of embodied iterated social learning in which the forms evolve due to limited perceptual abilities of the robots during multiple learning cycles. It is shown that shared chunks that consisted of similar movement sequences emerge in the learned forms, and as these emergent shared sequences can be learned with high accuracy, they cause a cumulative increase in the learnability of the collections. Therefore, we are able to present robotic experiments in which embodied learning on robots leads to combinatorial structure as a result of cultural interactions in the form of iterated learning without a communicative task.
Performing Manhood through Animal Killings? Revisions of Hunting as a Performance of Masculinity in Ernest Hemingway’s Late Writings
Authors: Armengol Josep M.
Published: November 2020

While much of the existing critical work on Ernest Hemingway has represented him as the epitome of macho bravado, and whereas his numerous depictions of animal hunting have been often described as theatrical performances of masculinity, this article aims to question such traditional (mis)conceptions by contrasting his early work Green Hills of Africa ([1935] 2003) to two of his posthumously published texts—namely, An African Story (1986) and Under Kilimanjaro (2005). While the former text may certainly be said to conform to the traditional Hemingwayesque image of hunting as a heavily masculine performance, the two latter texts may be seen to provide radical counterpoints to this, as they not only question the traditional image of animal hunting as a trope of masculinity but also provide a more critical indictment against animal killings. Hemingway’s late texts, both fictional and nonfictional, would thus seem to point to the writer’s often unacknowledged personal and literary evolution, which goes hand in hand with his changed gender and racialized attitudes towards both women and African nonwhites, respectively. Ultimately, Hemingway’s late writings are set within a predatory context of hunting in which the type of relation to any form of otherness (be it gender, race, or animal) shifts into new discursive terrains that allow the author to reconceptualize his own white masculinity.
Bilateral choroidal metastasis from adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submandibular salivary gland
Authors: Bacherini Daniela , Pellegrini Marco , Vicini Giulio , Nicolosi Cristina , Pieretti Giulia , Vannozzi Lorenzo , Rizzo Stanislao , Mazzini Cinzia , Giansanti Fabrizio
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

A case of bilateral choroidal metastasis from an adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submandibular gland is described.

Case description:

A 45-years-old woman with a history of metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma presented with visual impairment in both eyes. Fundus images showed bilateral creamy-white choroidal masses. Optical coherence tomography revealed subretinal fluid with high reflective speckles and a “lumpy bumpy” anterior contour of the lesions. Fluorescein angiography showed a hypofluorescent pattern of the lesions in early arterial phases, and progressive late hyperfluorescence. A diagnosis of bilateral choroidal metastasis from adenoid cystic carcinoma was made. The patient was advised to underwent palliative chemotherapy, but she expired a few weeks after the diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Salivary gland carcinoma rarely metastasizes to the choroid, with few cases described in literature. In patients with a history of salivary glands tumor the possibility of choroidal metastatization should always be considered.
Conceptualizing self-regulated reading-to-write in ESL/EFL writing and investigating its relationships to motivation and writing competence
Authors: Bai Barry , Wang Jing
Published: November 2020

Self-regulated reading-to-write (R2W) can be portrayed as learners’ proactive learning of useful elements (e.g. content, rhetorical features, and conventions) from reading by using strategies, which is an effective mechanism connecting reading and writing, to improve their writing competence. In the present study, six major types of self-regulated R2W strategies, i.e. mining reading, writerly reading, cognitive strategies, purposive reading, recalling while writing, and peer revision reading that can contribute to writing competence were included in the proposed self-regulated R2W framework. Importantly, a self-regulated R2W scale was established to understand the impacts of four types of strategies. Participants were 458 primary students (9 to 13 years old, M = 10.12, SD = .62) in Hong Kong. They completed the self-regulated R2W questionnaire along with motivational variables and a writing competence test. The motivational variables (i.e. self-efficacy and perceived task values) were positively related to self-regulated R2W strategy use. Important differences in self-regulated R2W strategy use among the high, average, and low achievers were identified. Results indicated that self-regulated R2W strategy use had positive impacts on writing competence. This is the first time that reading-to-write is proposed from a self-regulated learning perspective in ESL/EFL school contexts. The self-regulated R2W framework, scale and positive impacts of strategy use on writing have important implications for future research and practices.
The Corona crisis: a wicked problem
Authors: Schiefloe Per Morten
Published: November 2020

The aim of this paper is to analyse the current Corona crisis from the perspective of the theory of wicked problems. The analysis is based on a combination of observation of national and global effects of the pandemic and a study of relevant theoretical contributions. The findings confirm that the crisis is of a kind that corresponds to the main characteristics of the wicked problems theory. The conclusion is that the pandemic cannot be approached by standardised analytical techniques, because it, like other wicked problems, represents a unique challenge and because all possible solutions may lead to unknown negative consequences.
Determination of heavy metals and health risk assessment in indoor dust from different functional areas in Neyshabur, Iran
Authors: Naimabadi Abolfazl , Gholami Ali , Ramezani Amir M.
Published: November 2020

The concentration of 10 potentially toxic heavy metals in indoor dust from homes in Neyshabur was investigated. The concentrations of heavy metals in indoor dust from homes ranged from 28.1 to 190.4 µg g−1 for Cr, 24.7 to 162.2 µg g−1 for Ni, 43.8 to 640.4 µg g−1 for Cu, 13.7 to 5,345.7 µg g−1 for Pb, 135.5 to 1,033.0 µg g−1 for Mn, 105.8 to 2,958.0 µg g−1 for Zn, 6,288.0 to 32759.8 µg g−1 for Fe, 2,916.5 to 37,990.0 µg g−1 for Al, 1.3 to 21.4 µg g−1 for Co and 0.5 to 12.9 µg g−1 for Cd. Results of the concentrations of heavy metals in this study were compared with values reported in other parts of the world. Statistical tests revealed no significant relationship between tobacco use and measured heavy metal concentrations. The range of United States-Environmental Protection Agency safe limits (1 × 10−4 and 1 × 10−6) indicates that cancer risk of Cr in age groups of both children and adults (1.6 × 10−3 and 5.5 × 10−3) is higher. For all studied elements, the obtained hazard index was found to be <1, which means they are at safe levels of metals. The principal component analysis showed that Co, Mn and Fe form an independent cluster with no relationship with other metals. The overall enrichment factor was close to 10, which suggests having a natural source.
Investigation on the effects of the joint type on the driven out bead in the welded pipes produced by high-frequency induction welding
Authors: Ghaffarpour M , Akbari D , Naeini H Moslemi
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the effects of the joint type on the driven-out bead of the roll-formed pipes, welded by high-frequency induction welding process are studied. The main goal is to predict and reduce the volume of the bead driven out in the weld seam. Moreover, it aims to move the semi-solid bead during welding to the outer diameter of the pipe. This study has two prior aims: to produce a defect-free joint and to improve the mechanical and metallurgical properties. In order to optimize the weld joint, various joint types have been investigated by experimental tests and simulation. Lastly, destructive tests were used to determine if the desired mechanical properties of the weld joint were obtained. The metallurgical properties and the derivation of the semi-solid material in the weld zone have both been investigated in terms of microstructure. According to the results, the proper joint type improves the mechanical properties by 5% and reduces the volume of the weld bead about 45%.
A numerical investigation of isobaric combustion strategy in a compression ignition engine
Authors: Liu Xinlei , Aljabri Hammam , Mohan Balaji , Babayev Rafig , Badra Jihad , Johansson Bengt , Im Hong G
Published: November 2020

Three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic simulations were conducted to study the means to achieve isobaric combustion mode in a compression ignition engine, which is intended to be used in the high-efficiency double compression-expansion engine (DCEE) concept. Compared to the conventional diesel combustion mode, the isobaric combustion mode generated a significantly lower peak combustion pressure, which was beneficial for the high load extension. For both combustion modes, the ignition was triggered downstream of the nozzle, with the heat release dominated by HCO + O2 = CO+HO2, while the injection-combustion duration for the isobaric combustion mode was significantly longer. The effects of swirl ratio, spray angle, and piston geometries on the isobaric combustion at various engine loads were also investigated. The higher swirl ratio resulted in a higher heat transfer loss and thus lower thermal efficiency. Due to the higher air utilization rates and lower heat transfer losses, cases with spray angles of 140° and 150° generated the higher thermal efficiencies. The piston bowl geometry was found to have a significant impact on the mixing and combustion processes, especially at high engine load conditions. For the conditions under study, the original piston geometry with a swirl ratio of 0 and a spray angle of 140° demonstrated the highest thermal efficiency for the isobaric combustion mode. The results of this work will provide guidance in the practical design and implementation of the DCEE concept.
My living theory of a professional framework for art education
Authors: Meyer Merna , Wood Lesley
Published: November 2020

This article explains my living educational theory in the form of a professional framework that I call PART, which conceptually unites the roles of the artist, researcher and teacher (ART) to foster critical, participatory (P), and socially engaged action. I discuss how I improved my practice over four action research cycles to be more in line with my professed values of creativity, connectedness and care, followed by six learning platforms conducted with pre-service art teachers and community children in a South African context. Evidence of the students’ transformational learning was gathered over six learning platforms. Reflecting on my observations, pedagogical strategies and on students’ visual images and critical reflections on their learning, I found that the professional framework changed pre-service art teachers’ views – they became more learner-centred, using art as a mediating tool to engage learners in thinking about critical social issues and developed collaborative and leadership skills. The fundamental principles of the framework, aimed at developing critically engaged and reflective practitioners, working in diverse learning environments could be applied to almost any discipline within teacher education.
College Persistence of Dual-Enrolled High School Students When Considering Modality of Dual-Enrollment Course Delivery
Authors: Alsup Philip , Depenhart Joseph
Published: November 2020

Dual-enrollment programs are a fixture in American secondary education and allow high school students the opportunity to receive college credits while attending high school. However, whether the location of a dual-enrollment course encourages college persistence is not fully understood. Student Integration Theory and Psychological Theory are applied to various modes of dual-enrollment course delivery. The College Persistence Questionnaire ( CPQ) measured college persistence of 101 dual-enrolled high school students taking college courses at either a high school or at a community college. An ANOVA revealed a significant difference ( p < .01) in college persistence based on course location with students taking courses on the college campus having higher persistence. The researchers concluded that location of a dual enrollment course is a significant factor when evaluating college persistence. Implications for practice are offered.
Gait Disturbance Improvement and Cerebral Cortex Rearrangement by Acupuncture in Parkinson’s Disease: A Pilot Assessor-Blinded, Randomized, Controlled, Parallel-Group Trial
Authors: Jang Jung-Hee , Park Sangsoo , An Jinung , Choi Jong-duk , Seol In chan , Park Gunhyuk , Lee Seung Hyun , Moon Young , Kang Weechang , Jung Eun-Sun , Cha Ji-yun , Kim Chan-young , Kim Siyeon , Jung In Chul , Yoo Horyong
Published: November 2020

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) leads to impaired mobility and limited independence.

Objective

We investigated the effects of acupuncture on gait disturbance and analyzed hemodynamic changes caused by acupuncture in the cerebral cortex of patients with PD.

Methods

Participants (n = 26) with gait disturbance due to PD were randomly assigned to the intervention (acupuncture twice a week for 4 weeks + conventional therapy) or control (conventional therapy) groups. We analyzed gait parameters using the GAITRite system and hemodynamic responses in the cerebral cortices using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores, neurotransmitter levels, as well as the immediate effects of acupuncture in patients with PD.

Results

The participants tended to walk with hypometric gait (high cadence, short steps) overground. After acupuncture treatment, those in the intervention group showed a significant reduction in cadence and the UPDRS scores involving “walking and balance” compared with those in the control group ( P = .004 and P = .020, respectively); the stride, swing, and single support times were significantly increased ( P = .006, P = .001, and P = .001, respectively). Oxyhemoglobin levels in the intervention group while walking on a treadmill were significantly increased in the prefrontal and supplementary motor areas. The oxyhemoglobin levels in the prefrontal cortex and swing time revealed significant positive correlations.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that acupuncture tended to improve hypometric gait and rearranged activation of the cerebral cortex. Thus, acupuncture may be a useful complementary treatment for gait disturbance, including hypometric gait, in patients with PD. Trial Registration Number. Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0002603), https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/index.jsp