bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human–Computer Interactive Gesture Feature Capture and Recognition in Virtual Reality
Authors: Zhang Fan
Published: June 2020

With the development of computer technology, the simulation authenticity of virtual reality technology is getting higher and higher, and the accurate recognition of human–computer interaction gestures is also the key technology to enhance the authenticity of virtual reality. This article briefly introduced three different gesture feature extraction methods: scale invariant feature transform, local binary pattern and histogram of oriented gradients (HOG), and back-propagation (BP) neural network for classifying and recognizing different gestures. The gesture feature vectors obtained by three feature extraction methods were used as input data of BP neural network respectively and were simulated in MATLAB software. The results showed that the information of feature gesture diagram extracted by HOG was the closest to the original one; the BP neural network that applied HOG extracted feature vectors converged to stability faster and had the smallest error when it was stable; in the aspect of gesture recognition, the BP neural network that applied HOG extracted feature vector had higher accuracy and precision and lower false alarm rate.
Is Self-Compassion Universal? Support for the Measurement Invariance of the Self-Compassion Scale Across Populations
Authors: Tóth-Király István , Neff Kristin D.
Published: June 2020

The Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) is a widely used measure to assess the trait of self-compassion, and, so far, it has been implicitly assumed that it functions the same way across different groups. This assumption needs to be explicitly tested to ascertain that no measurement biases exist. To address this issue, the present study sought to systematically examine the generalizability of the bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling operationalization of the SCS via tests of measurement invariance across a wide range of populations, varying according to features such as student or community status, gender, age, and language. Secondary data were used for this purpose and included a total of 18 samples and 12 different languages ( N = 10,997). Multigroup analyses revealed evidence for the configural, weak, strong, strict, and latent variance–covariance of the bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling operationalization of the SCS across different groups. These findings suggest that the SCS provides an assessment of self-compassion that is psychometrically equivalent across groups. However, findings comparing latent mean invariance found that levels of self-compassion differed across groups.
Comparing the Psychometric Properties of Eight Embedded Performance Validity Tests in the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Wechsler Memory Scale Logical Memory, and Brief Visuospatial Memory Test–Revised Recognition Trials for Detecting Invalid Neuropsychological Test Performance
Authors: Pliskin Joshua I. , DeDios Stern Samantha , Resch Zachary J. , Saladino Kevin F. , Ovsiew Gabriel P. , Carter Dustin A. , Soble Jason R.
Published: June 2020

This cross-sectional study evaluated eight embedded performance validity tests (PVTs) previously derived from the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Wechsler Memory Scale–IV–Logical Memory (LM), and Brief Visuospatial Memory Test–Revised (BVMT-R) recognition trials among a single mixed clinical sample of 108 neuropsychiatric patients (83 valid/25 invalid) with ( n = 54) and without ( n = 29) mild neurocognitive disorder. Among the overall sample, all eight recognition PVTs significantly differentiated valid from invalid performance (areas under the curve [AUCs] = .64-.81) with 26% to 44% sensitivity (≥89% specificity) at optimal cut-scores depending on the specific PVT. After subdividing the sample by cognitive impairment status, all eight PVTs continued to reliably identify invalid performance (AUC = .68-.91) with markedly increased sensitivities of 56% to 80% (≥89% specificity) in the unimpaired group. In contrast, among those with mild neurocognitive disorder, RAVLT False Positives and LM became nonsignificant, whereas the other six PVTs remained significant (AUC = .64-.77), albeit with reduced sensitivities of 32% to 44% (≥89% specificity) at optimal cut-scores. Taken together, results cross-validated BVMT-R and most RAVLT recognition indices as effective embedded PVTs for identifying invalid neuropsychological test performance with diverse populations including examinees with and without suspected mild neurocognitive disorder, whereas LM had more limited utility as an embedded PVT, particularly when mild neurocognitive disorder was present.
Fostering Key Professional Skills and Social Activism Through Experiential Learning Projects in Communication and Advertising Education
Authors: Kolotouchkina Olga , Gonzálvez Vallés Juan Enrique , Alonso Mosquera María del Henar
Published: June 2020

This article examines the impact of experiential learning projects in communication education on the development of critical professional skills and social activism of students. We argue that an effective integration of ethically relevant issues that could be addressed from the communication practice in classroom instruction helps students to develop key professional competences while applying their talent and communication skills toward relevant social debates. From the Spiral of Silence and Cultural Capital theories perspectives, the research explores key dynamics, learnings, and the results of an innovative academic project focused on challenging extreme content and unethical behavior in social digital networks.
Embrace the Uncontrolled Nature of Poetry Writing: A Poetic Ethnographic Study on International Graduate Student Mothers’ Intercultural Discourses
Authors: Zhang Kuo
Published: June 2020

Through presenting a series of poetry findings from a larger poetic ethnographic study on the lived experience of 11 international graduate student first-time mothers’ learning of the “language” of motherhood during their journey of pregnancy, birth, and early years of motherhood, this article reflects on the uncontrolled nature of poetry writing in an ethnographic study and discusses the long-lasting concerns on the quality, qualification, and criteria for evaluation associated with poetic inquiry and arts-based research in general. I aim to provide methodological insights for the use and evaluation of poetic inquiry, as well as other forms of arts-based research in academia.
Possibles and Post Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Brown Star P. , McKesson Leslie D. , Robinson John , Jackson Alecia Y.
Published: June 2020

St. Pierre describes post qualitative inquiry as something that “must be created, invented anew each time” and as residing on an ontological plane of possibles. What we present below are a series of possibles.
Uniformity of the Green operator and Eshelby tensor for hyperboloidal domains in infinite media
Authors: Franciosi Patrick
Published: June 2020

Since Eshelby’s (1957) result (Eshelby, JD. The determination of the elastic field of an ellipsoidal inclusion and related problems. Proc R Soc London A 1957; 421: 379–396) that ellipsoids in an infinite matrix have uniform localization tensors, all attempts to find other finite domain shapes sharing that same property have failed and valuable proofs were provided that none could exist. Since that “uniformity property” also applies to infinite cylinders and layers as limits of prolate and oblate spheroids, we examine the cases of hyperboloidal domains of which infinite cylinders and platelets also are the limits. As members of the quadric surface family, hyperboloids expectably also have uniform Eshelby tensor and Green operator when embedded in infinite media, with specific features expectable too from unboundedness and not convex curvatures. Using the Radon transform method applied by the author to various inclusion shapes, as well as to finite and infinite patterns, since the uniformity of a shape function (inverse Radon transform of the domain indicator function) implies the uniformity of the related Green operator and Eshelby tensor, we examine the shape functions of axially symmetric hyperboloids. We establish that those of the two-sheet types are uniform and those of the one-sheet types are not, an additional neck-related term carrying the non-uniformity. The Green operators are next examined in considering an isotropic embedding medium with elastic- (including dielectric-) like properties. The results regarding the operator (non) uniformity correspond to those concerning the shape functions. The established operator uniformity characteristics imply validity of all Eshelby-derived ellipsoid properties. Yet, determining the Green operator solution calls for overcoming the issue of the infinite hyperbolic planar sections (the operator finiteness), with also attention being paid to positive definiteness. Options are compared from which an obtained satisfying solution with regard to both issues raises questioning theoretical and practical points on mathematical and mechanical grounds. While further studies are in progress, some application tracks are indicated.
Moving the Customer Experience Field Forward: Introducing the Touchpoints, Context, Qualities (TCQ) Nomenclature
Authors: De Keyser Arne , Verleye Katrien , Lemon Katherine N. , Keiningham Timothy L. , Klaus Philipp
Published: June 2020

In response to initial voices that put the customer experience (management) (CX(M)) movement into question, this article aims to introduce a formal nomenclature to push the CX(M) field toward a more mature state. First, drawing from an inductive analysis of 143 CX(M) papers, the authors identify 12 basic CX components that aggregate into three overarching building blocks—touchpoints (T, i.e., points of interaction between the customer and brand/firm), context (C, i.e., situationally available resources internal and/or external to the customer), and qualities (Q, i.e., attributes that reflect the nature of customer responses and reactions to interactions with the brand/firm). The TCQ nomenclature offers a language to make CX actionable, moving beyond the breadth of the current definition and frameworks by disentangling CX into small bite-sized chunks (i.e., the CX components) that any academic and practitioner, regardless of their discipline, may understand and use to discuss and manage CX. Second, using the TCQ nomenclature, the authors assess the current state of the CX(M) literature and identify mature (e.g., firm-controlled touchpoints and cognitive and emotional qualities associated with CX) and underdeveloped (e.g., nonfirm controlled touchpoints and the market and environmental context in which CX emerges) areas ripe for future research. In addition, they also provide a set of recommendations to strengthen the methodological rigor of the field. Third, the TCQ nomenclature may support managers in auditing their current CXM practices and/or serve as a basis for CX design and innovation.
Intravitreal aflibercept for management of choroidal neovascularization secondary to angioid streaks
Authors: Parodi Maurizio Battaglia , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Marchese Alessandro , Giuffrè Chiara , Viola Francesco , Staurenghi Giovanni , Varano Monica , Bandello Francesco
Published: June 2020

Purpose

To investigate the effect and the safety of intravitreal aflibercept in patients affected by choroidal neovascularization secondary to angioid streaks with a long-term follow-up.

Methods

Multicentre, open-label, phase IIb study (EYLEA-STRIE, EudraCT Number 2014-000986-30) involving four Italian centres (IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele (Milano), Fondazione G.B. Bietti (Roma), Policlinico (Milano), Ospedale Luigi Sacco (Milano)). Patients with active choroidal neovascularization secondary to angioid streaks with foveal involvement were prospectively enrolled and followed for 18 months. All the patients received intravitreal 2 mg/0.05 mL aflibercept at the time of enrolment, followed by a pro-re-nata regimen for 48 weeks. Best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness were measured monthly. Adverse events were monitored at each visit.

Results

Twenty-three eyes of 20 patients were analysed. Mean number of injections per patient was 4.30 ± 1.2. At week 48, the best-corrected visual acuity was 0.42 ± 0.40 LogMAR (p = 0.6 from baseline) and 18 eyes (81.8%) featured stability within 15 letters. The central macular thickness significantly reduced (p = 0.03). Eleven ocular non-serious adverse events and two serious adverse events were observed (one case of endophthalmitis and one case of acute gastritis were reported).

Conclusion

Intravitreal aflibercept represents a valid option for the management of choroidal neovascularization complicating angioid streaks. Further studies with longer follow-up and different therapeutic regimens are warranted to ascertain the best control of the disease.
Ocular side effects of target therapy and immunotherapy in patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma
Authors: Eikenberry Jennifer , Harris Alon , Torabi Rana , Lang Matthew , Denney Derek , Verticchio Vercellin Alice , Siesky Brent
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

To examine the nature and frequency of ocular side effects due to systemic target therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors as well as immunotherapy with cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibodies used in the treatment of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM).

Design:

While proven effective in cancer treatment, target therapy and immunotherapy have been associated with ocular side effects likely due to their ability to alter the immune privilege of the eye. We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing target and immunotherapy for CMM and documented all associated eye findings.

Methods:

We reviewed the records of 34 patients receiving target and immunotherapy for CMM who were examined in the academic ophthalmology clinic between 2012 and 2017.

Results:

Ocular side effects were present in 41.1% of patients in this study with 14.7% presenting with uveitis. Patients undergoing therapy with either vemurafenib only or dabrafenib/trametinib combination therapies comprised 70.5% of the study cohort. Ocular side effects occurred in 45.5% and 46.1% of patients on vemurafenib and dabrafenib/trametinib combination therapy, respectively. About 47.5% of males presented with ocular side effects compared to 30.5% of females. Notably, 13/14 patients with ocular symptoms recovered.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the frequency of ocular side effects in patients treated with target therapy and immunotherapy for CMM and shows that symptom resolution can be effectively achieved with proper ophthalmic care. Further research is required to answer whether cessation of these therapies is mandatory during ophthalmic treatment.
Diagnostic uncertainty during the transition to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis: Multicenter study in Argentina
Authors: Rojas Juan Ignacio , Patrucco Liliana , Alonso Ricardo , Garcea Orlando , Deri Norma , Carnero Contentti Edgar , Lopez Pablo A , Pettinicchi Juan Pablo , Caride Alejandro , Cristiano Edgardo
Published: June 2020

Background:

A period of diagnostic uncertainty often characterizes the clinical transition from relapsing to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS).

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe the length of time required to reclassify relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients who have clinically transitioned to SPMS (diagnosis uncertainty).

Methods:

This is a retrospective multicenter cohort study conducted in Argentina, identifying in every center all patients with diagnosis of MS who transitioned from RRMS to SPMS during the follow-up. We identified the dates of the last definitive RRMS and first definitive SPMS diagnoses for diagnostic uncertainty. The time required to reclassify RRMS who transitioned to SPMS and the time from disease onset to reclassify SPMS were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results:

A total of 170 patients were included, where the mean age at disease onset (first symptom) was 36 ± 6 years; the length of time required to reclassify RRMS patients who transitioned to SPMS was 3.3 ± 1.1 years (range = 1–7 years); and the time from disease onset to classify SPMS was 19.4 ± 8.5 years (range = 16–35 years).

Conclusion:

A period of diagnostic uncertainty regarding the transition from RRMS to SPMS was present in many of our patients, with a mean time of 3.3 years.
Gamifying fake news: Engaging youth in the participatory design of news literacy games
Authors: Literat Ioana , Chang Yoo Kyung , Hsu Shu-Yi
Published: June 2020

This article discusses the potential of participatory game design to encourage and capture youth reflection, discussion, and participation around news literacy topics. Based on data obtained during a game design workshop with youth participants, we analyze two youth-produced games about fake news and discuss the personal, social, and cultural dimensions of youth attitudes and practices in relation to news literacy, as manifested through the process of game design. Our findings paint a rich picture of the ways in which youth understand and engage with fake news, their attitudes toward news literacy, and their playful approaches to collaboratively designing and prototyping news literacy games. This research sheds light on the opportunities and challenges related to the use of games and participatory game design for news literacy research and education, while also contributing to our understanding of the emerging processes that can support youth’s roles as designers, and not only consumers, of educational games about the news.
Prediction of social behavior in autism spectrum disorders: Explicit versus implicit social cognition
Authors: Keifer Cara M , Mikami Amori Yee , Morris James P , Libsack Erin J , Lerner Matthew D
Published: June 2020

Deficient social communication and interaction behaviors are a hallmark feature of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. These social communication and interaction deficits potentially stem from problems with explicit social cognition (i.e. processes that are controlled and largely conscious) as well as with implicit social cognition (i.e. processes that are fast, spontaneous, and primarily unconscious). This study aimed to investigate the relative contributions of implicit and explicit social cognition factors as predictors of multi-informant measures of social communication and interaction behaviors in a sample of 34 youth with clinical diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder. Behavioral, cognitive, and electrophysiological indices of implicit and explicit social cognition were entered into partial least squares regression models designed to identify latent factors that optimally predict parent-report, observer-coded, and clinician-rated social communication, and interaction outcomes. Results indicated that while both implicit and explicit social cognition factors optimally predicted outcomes, implicit social cognition factors were relatively more predictive. Findings have important implications for the conceptualization and measurement of social functioning as well as the development of targeted social interventions in autism spectrum disorder populations.

Lay abstract

Difficulties with social communication and interaction are a hallmark feature of autism spectrum disorder. These difficulties may be the result of problems with explicit social cognition (effortful and largely conscious processes) such as learning and recalling social norms or rules. Alternatively, social deficits may stem from problems with implicit social cognition (rapid and largely unconscious processes) such as the efficient integration of social information. The goal of this study was to determine how problems in explicit and implicit social cognition relate to social behavior in 34 youth with autism spectrum disorder. We measured aspects of implicit and explicit social cognition abilities in the laboratory using behavioral, cognitive, and brain (electrophysiological) measures. We then used those measures to predict “real-world” social behavior as reported by parents, clinicians, and independent observers. Results showed that overall better aspects of implicit and explicit social cognition predicted more competent social behavior. In addition, the ability to fluidly integrate social information (implicit social cognition) was more frequently related to competent social behavior that merely knowing what to do in social situations (explicit social cognition). These findings may help with the development of interventions focusing on improving social deficits.
The neoliberal workings of The Family Meal campaign: Unfortunate others, European citizens, and the branding of the EU
Authors: Oomen Wouter , Martens Emiel , Piccoli Anna
Published: June 2020

Due to increased privatization of development assistance, humanitarian communication is usually considered to be the domain of non-governmental organizations. However, (inter)governmental and (supra)national institutions still play an important role in development assistance. Notably, the European Union has become a leading development actor globally – and also actively brands itself as such. In this process of branding, the European Union not only celebrates its empathic recognition of vulnerable non-European Others, but also aims to promote a sense of European citizenship. In this article, we examine this process in the context of The Family Meal, a 2014 awareness campaign on food assistance led by the Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection Department of the European Commission. We argue that the campaign reflects both the logic of neoliberal humanitarianism and the quest for European citizenship. To develop our argument, we will assess The Family Meal in three steps. First, we discuss how the campaign mimicked post-humanitarian tendencies in non-governmental campaigns aimed at raising funds. Second, we demonstrate how The Family Meal not only reported on (helping) non-European Others, but also, and importantly, promoted a sense of European belonging. Finally, we introduce the concept of successional campaigns – that is, campaigns that follow up on the action taken rather than preceding it – to show that The Family Meal largely appeared as the result of the neoliberal trend toward administering accountability and branding organizations. Altogether, we consider the campaign, with the neoliberal branding of the European Union and its citizens at its center, as emblematic for humanitarian communication within the rise of New Public Management in the 21st century.
Killing them softly? Two complementary studies on visibility and framing of new parties in the news
Authors: van Spanje Joost , Azrout Rachid
Published: June 2020

Democratic systems need some degree of openness to new ideas and to new competitors. New parties depend on news media to survive. Which new parties receive news media coverage, and what kind of coverage do these parties receive? This article brings in the media into the literature of new parties. Based on two original datasets compiled for this study, the news media coverage of dozens of parties in a variety of offline and online news media sources since 1947 is analyzed to address the two research questions. In terms of visibility, new parties receive more attention when already represented in parliament and when mobilizing on the main axis of political contestation. In terms of framing, new parties are hardly ever trivialized, stigmatized, or criminalized. Compared to established parties, new parties are more trivialized, just as little criminalized, and even less stigmatized. Our findings put complaints about the media by new party leaders into perspective, and let political and media practitioners reflect on their practices, inform debates about interactions between news media and new voices. They may also open new lines of research about political transformations that we witness in Western democracies today.
Conceptualising quality in co-produced research
Authors: Howard Marilyn , Thomas-Hughes Helen
Published: June 2020

Co-produced research is said to create new knowledge through including the perspectives of those traditionally excluded from knowledge production, which in turn is expected to enhance research quality and impact. This article critically examines academic and UK voluntary sector literature concerning participatory and co-produced approaches to explore how quality is currently understood in co-produced research. Drawing on early career researchers’ experiences of a programme of co-produced research, the authors illustrate how theory and practice of co-production can differ, and the implications for conceptualising ‘research quality’ within co-produced research. Drawing on debates within qualitative research, community work and policy studies, the article outlines a potential framework for raising questions of ‘quality’, co-produced by research partners as part of the research process. Key dimensions of this framework are process, outcomes and autonomy.
The maroon boxer briefs: exploring erotic reflexivity in interview research
Authors: García-Iglesias Jaime
Published: June 2020

This article addresses both participants’ and researchers’ erotic arousal during in-depth interviewing and explores how these emotions can be both productive and informative. I briefly overview the scarce literature available and propose a new framework where arousal is considered as playful. I provide three cases from my research where erotic arousal was informative. These reflect on participants’ and researcher’s arousal through interview transcripts and research journal. I suggest that ignoring these instances overlooks important sources of information about the interview setting and propose ways in which these emotions can be included as informative insights in the analysis of research. Throughout this article, I also reflect on the ways in which erotic arousal is embodied and, thus, not always rational, and the limits of reflexivity. Finally, I conclude by acknowledging some of the complications of erotic arousal before suggesting its benefits.
Mapping movements: a call for qualitative social network analysis
Authors: Luxton India , Sbicca Joshua
Published: June 2020

Social network analysis (SNA) is an interdisciplinary method that takes as its starting point the premise that social life is created primarily and most importantly by relations and the patterns formed by these relations. While SNA is often associated with the quantitative analysis of network measures, we illustrate through our overall mapping of, and interpretation of the relations within the Denver food movement, the advantages of a qualitative approach. We bring together information from surveys, network diagrams, betweenness centrality measures, and interviews to offer an interpretive process that reveals both the structure and activist- and organization-level meanings to explain resource mobilization and collaboration. We propose that qualitative SNA allows researchers to (a) understand the context and content of network structures and (b) better interpret quantitative measures with additional qualitative data. Based on our findings, we additionally suggest that for social movement scholars, qualitative SNA offers a deeper understanding of how organizations collaborate to advance organizational and movement goals.
Effects of anti-osteoporosis therapy on plasma aldosterone and renin
Authors: Hu Qingfen , Liao Kangla , Zhang Longwei , Shu Xiaoyu , Xu Zhixin , Qiu Yuyang , Li Qifu , Yang Shumin
Published: June 2020

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of anti-osteoporosis therapy on plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC), plasma renin concentration (PRC) and the aldosterone/renin ratio (ARR) in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Methods:

In 60 patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis, bone mineral density (BMD), PAC and PRC were measured before and after treatment with alendronate (70 mg/week, n=22) or recombinant human parathyroid hormone (20 μg/day, n=35) for 48 weeks.

Results:

PAC was negatively correlated with the T-score of lumbar spine BMD and femoral neck BMD (lumbar r=−0.386, p<0.01; femoral neck r=−0.262, p<0.05). With the improvement in lumbar BMD after anti-osteoporosis treatment (T-score −3.4±0.5 vs. –3.1 ±0.4, p<0.0001), PAC decreased from 182.8±53.2 to 143.7±68.6 pg/mL ( p<0.0001), PRC increased from 7.8±11.6 to 39.2±50.0 μIU/mL ( p<0.0001) and the ARR decreased from 74.8±75.2 to 13.1±17.1 pg/μIU ( p<0.0001). At baseline, 58% (35/60) of the patients had an ARR >37 pg/μIU, and the proportion decreased to 8% (5/57) after treatment.

Conclusion:

Treatment with alendronate or parathyroid hormone causes decreased PAC and increased PRC, resulting in a decreased ARR in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
Systemic domination, social institutions and the coalition problem
Authors: Sandven Hallvard
Published: June 2020

This article argues for a systemic conception of freedom as non-domination. It does so by engaging with the debate on the so-called coalition problem. The coalition problem arises because non-domination holds that groups can be agents of (dominating) power, while also insisting that freedom be robust. Consequently, it seems to entail that everyone is in a constant state of domination at the hands of potential groups. However, the problem can be dissolved by rejecting a ‘strict possibility’ standard for interpreting non-domination’s robustness requirement. Frank Lovett and Philip Pettit propose to restrict the relevant domain of possible worlds by reference to two epistemic conditions pertaining to potential group members. I argue that this strategy unduly limits non-domination’s critical potential. I then argue that a suitably systemic conception of domination avoids this problem. By placing explanatory emphasis on social institutions, and how these bear on the feasibility of individual and collective action, a systemic conception of non-domination avoids the coalition problem in a way that retains its critical potential. The article clarifies the relationship between the rule of law and the social norms and objects to the claim that non-domination is bound to deem the latter irrelevant from the point of view of freedom.
A new pinched nonlinear hysteretic structural model for automated creation of digital clones in structural health monitoring
Authors: Zhou Cong , Chase J Geoffrey
Published: June 2020

Optimizing risk treatment of structures in post-event decision-making is extremely difficult due to the lack of information on building damage/status after an event, particularly for nonlinear structures. This work develops an automated, no human intervention, modeling approach using structural health monitoring results to create accurate digital building clones of nonlinear structures for collapse prediction assessment and optimized decision-making. Model-free hysteresis loop analysis structural health monitoring method provides accurate structural health monitoring results from which model parameters of a nonlinear computational foundation model are identified. A new identifiable nonlinear smooth hysteretic model capturing essential structural dynamics and deterioration is developed to ensure robust parameter identification using support vector machines. Method performance is validated against both numerical and experimental data of a scaled 12-story reinforced concrete nonlinear structure. Results of numerical validation show an average error of 1.5% across 18 structural parameters from hysteresis loop analysis and an average error of 2.0% over 30 identified model parameters from support vector machines in the presence of 10% added root-mean-square noise. Validation using experimental data of the scale test reinforced concrete structure also shows a good match of identified hysteresis loop analysis and predicted nonlinear stiffness changes using the digital clones created with an average difference of 1.4%. More importantly, the predicted response using the digital clones for the highly nonlinear pinched hysteretic behavior matches the measured response well, with the average correlation coefficient Rcoeff = 0.92 and average root-mean-square error of 4.6% across all cases. The overall approach takes structural health monitoring from a tool providing retrospective damage data into automated prospective prediction analysis by “cloning” the structure using computational modeling, which in turn allows optimized decision-making using existing risk analyses and tools.
The Use of Enhanced Technologies in Robotic Surgery and Its Impact on Outcomes in Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tejedor Patricia , Sagias Filippos , Khan Jim S.
Published: June 2020

The main advantage of the robotic approach is the surgical precision that the technology offers. It is particularly useful in rectal cancer as this is a technically challenging procedure. The technological advantage of the robot leads to better postoperative outcomes. Apart from the 3D vision and endowrist instrumentation in comparison to laparoscopy, the options of using fluorescence imaging, endowrist stapler, and table motion have revolutionised the way of performing an anterior resection. Thus, the true benefit of these advances will be the quality of the surgery, which leads to better postoperative outcomes. This article focuses on the current status of applications of new modalities and technology development in robotic rectal surgery. A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and cochrane database. The studies included were considered based on the following (1) articles written in English, (2) full text is available, (3) whether the topic is related to the use of novel technologies during robotic rectal surgery, and (4) sample: adult patients and malignant rectal disease. The primary end point was to analyse the current use of technological advances in robotic rectal surgery. Only a few studies are currently available on the use of these different technologies in robotic colorectal surgery. Many of these reports describe promising results, although with short-term outcomes. The use of technologies in robotic colorectal surgery is safe and feasible and can be used together to improve short-term outcomes. Intraoperative fluorescence angiography has demonstrated to reduce the rate of anastomotic leak, whereas the robotic stapler and the table motion simplify anatomic resection.
The missing-colour effect: The attentional beam captures reading-relevant and reading-irrelevant information
Authors: Saint-Aubin Jean , Deacon Hélène , Klein Raymond M , Thompson Celina
Published: June 2020

According to many models, reading is driven by an attentional beam. In two experiments, we investigated the specificity of the beam by testing its sensitivity to a reading-irrelevant feature: colour. More specifically, participants were asked to read either a black-and-white version or a multi-colour version of the text in which each letter was printed in a different colour. In addition, while reading for comprehension, participants either searched for a target letter ( t or d) or for a colour (pink or black). In Experiment 1, we used the Nelson–Denny reading test and in Experiment 2, we used an experimental text. In both the experiments, the typical missing-letter effect was observed with letters: Participants missed more letters in function than in content words. Most importantly, although the effect was smaller, this pattern of results was also observed when participants searched for a colour (e.g., pink or black letters in a multi-coloured passage). Our results suggest that the attentional beam involved in reading is sensitive to both reading-relevant and reading-irrelevant information.
2-Hexylthiophene-substituted Alizarin-based (D–π–A) Organic Dyes for Dye-sensitized Solar Cell Applications: Density Functional Theory and UV–Vis Studies
Authors: Abubakari Ismail , Babu Surendra , Vuai Said , Makangara John
Published: June 2020

This work reports density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory calculations of the optimized geometries, electronic structures and optical properties of molecular dyes D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, and D6 formulated through substitution of 2-hexylthiophene to alizarin using the hybrid functional B3LYP and 6-31G (d,p) basis sets. The dyes are considered as potential pigments for dye-sensitized solar cells. For all dyes, HOMO/LUMO (Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital/Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital) analysis results in positive outcomes upon electron injection to semiconductors and subsequent dye regeneration by the electrolyte. It is found that charge transfer is from the thiophene and unsubstituted ring of alizarin to the substituted ring of alizarin containing C=O and OH groups. The C=O groups are observed to be very important in strengthening the dyes as they are revealed to be the anchoring group bonding to the TiO2 semiconductor. Comparatively, dye D6 is observed to possess high absorption ability and electron injection power through a study of the light-harvesting efficiency and injection driving force (Δ Ginject). The estimated values of open-circuit voltage ( Voc) for the computed dyes are also presented. Decisively, all the considered dyes prove to be useful as potential photosensitizers in solar cells using a TiO2 semiconductor and [Formula: see text] coupling electrolyte.
A survey on the practices and capabilities in the management of respiratory failure in South East England
Authors: Jha Abhishek , Vasques Francesco , Sanderson Barnaby , Daly Kathleen , Glover Guy , Ioannou Nicholas , Wyncoll Duncan , Sherren Peter , Langrish Chris , Meadows Chris , Retter Andrew , Paul Richard , Barrett Nicholas A , Camporota Luigi
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The variability of acute respiratory distress syndrome management may affect the referral practice to severe respiratory failure centres. We described the management of acute respiratory distress syndrome in our catchment area.

Methods

An electronic survey was administered to 42 intensive care units in South-East England.

Results

Response rate was 71.4%. High-flow nasal oxygen and non-invasive ventilation were used ‘often’ in moderate-acute respiratory distress syndrome by 46.7% and 60%. During invasive ventilation, 90% preferred pressure control, targeting tidal volumes of 6–8 ml/kg (53.3%) or 4–6 ml/kg (46.7%). Positive end-expiratory pressure was selected by positive end-expiratory pressure/inspiratory fraction of oxygen tables (50%) or decremental positive end-expiratory pressure trials (20%). Neuro-muscular blockers were widely used, although routinely by only 3.3%. High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (10%) and inhaled nitric oxide (13.3%) were rarely used. None used oesophageal manometry. Recruitment manoeuvres were used ‘often’ by 26.7%. Equipment (90%) and protocols (80%) for prone position were common, with sessions mostly lasting 12–18 h.

Conclusions

Although variable, practice well reflected the available evidence. Proning was widely practiced with good availability of educational resources and protocolised care.
Comparative measurement properties of constant work rate cycling and the endurance shuttle walking test in COPD: the TORRACTO® clinical trial
Authors: Maltais François , O’Donnell Denis E. , Hamilton Alan , Zhao Yihua , Casaburi Richard
Published: June 2020

Background:

Exercise tolerance is an important endpoint in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) clinical trials. Little is known about the comparative measurement properties of constant work rate cycle ergometry (CWRCE) and the endurance shuttle walking test (ESWT). The objective of this sub-analysis of the TORRACTO® study was to directly compare the endurance measurement properties of CWRCE and ESWT in patients with COPD in a multicentre, multinational setting. We predicted that both tests would be similarly reliable, but that the ESWT would be more responsive to bronchodilation than CWRCE.

Methods:

This analysis included 151 patients who performed CWRCE and ESWT at baseline and week 6 after receiving once-daily placebo, tiotropium/olodaterol (T/O) 2.5/5 μg or T/O 5/5 μg. Reproducibility was assessed by comparing their respective performance at baseline and week 6 in the placebo group. Responsiveness to bronchodilation was assessed by comparing endurance time at week 6 with T/O with baseline values and placebo. The locus of symptom limitation and end-exercise Borg scales for breathing and leg discomfort for both tests were also analysed.

Results:

The intraclass correlation coefficients for CWRCE and ESWT were 0.56 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37–0.71] and 0.75 (95% CI 0.63–0.84). More patients were limited by breathing discomfort during the ESWT than during CWRCE, whereas more patients were limited by leg discomfort or breathing/leg discomfort during CWRCE than the ESWT ( p <0.0001). Both tests were responsive to bronchodilator treatment: there was a 19% increase in endurance time from baseline at week 6 ( p = 0.0006) assessed with CWRCE, and a 20% increase in endurance time assessed with ESWT ( p = 0.0013).

Conclusions:

Both exercise tests performed well in a multicentre clinical trial. Although the locus of symptom limitation differed between the two tests, both were reliable and responsive to bronchodilation. For future clinical trials, the choice of test should depend on the study requirements.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:

NCT01525615. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
A rare and fatal respiratory disease: bronchial Dieulafoy’s disease
Authors: Liao Shi-xia , Sun Peng-peng , Li Bang-guo , He Shuang-fei , Liu Mao-mao , Ou-Yang Yao
Published: June 2020

A 66-year-old woman had two severe episodes of massive hemoptysis without any premonitory symptoms, with approximately 400–500 ml blood each time. Bronchoscopic exam revealed a smooth and pulsatile protrusion that was approximately 8–10 mm in diameter found at the beginning of the right middle lobe bronchus in the bronchial lumen. The protrusion arose from the surface with absolutely normal mucosa. Selective bronchial arteriography showed that elongated, tortuous, and dilated branches of the bronchial artery in the region of the middle lobe bronchus. Further bronchial arterial embolization (BAE) is recommended, although the patient currently has no active bleeding. Bronchial Dieulafoy’s disease (BDD) is a rare and life-threatening disease. Selective bronchial arteriography is a diagnostic tool to detect and locate abnormal arteries. There is no unified guideline or expert consensus on the treatment of BDD. Selective BAE or surgical resection is usually used as a first-line treatment to control hemoptysis.

The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Disease activity guided stepwise tapering or discontinuation of rhTNFR:Fc, an etanercept biosimilar, in patients with ankylosing spondylitis: a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicentric study
Authors: Zhang Ting , Zhu Jianing , He Dongyi , Chen Xiaowei , Wang Hongzhi , Zhang Ying , Xue Qin , Liu Weili , Xiang Guangbo , Li Yasong , Yu Zhongming , Wu Huaxiang
Published: June 2020

Background:

The aim of this study was to evaluate disease-activity-guided stepwise tapering or discontinuation of rhTNFR:Fc, an etanercept biosimilar, in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicentric study.

Methods:

Active AS patients with AS disease activity score (ASDAS) ⩾2.1 recruited from 10 hospitals were treated with rhTNFR:Fc 50 mg weekly for 12 weeks, and further randomized into different tapering or discontinuation groups according to ASDAS at week 12. Patients who achieved clinical remission (ASDAS < 1.3) were assigned randomly to stepwise tapering group or discontinuation group. Patients who achieved low disease activity (LDA, 1.3⩽ASDAS < 2.1) were assigned randomly to stepwise tapering, delayed tapering, or discontinuation group. All patients were evaluated every 12 weeks until week 48. The primary endpoint was cumulative flare rates in different groups at week 48.

Results:

A total of 311 patients were enrolled with an average ASDAS of 3.6 ± 1.0, and 259 completed 12 weeks of rhTNFR:Fc induction therapy, with 148 patients (57.1%) achieved clinical remission, 100 (38.6%) achieved LDA, and 11 (4.3%) remained as high disease activity (ASDAS⩾2.1). In patients who achieved clinical remission at week 12, stepwise tapering of rhTNFR:Fc demonstrated significantly lower flare rates at each evaluation compared with discontinuation. In patients who achieved LDA, there was no significant difference of flare rates between stepwise tapering, delayed tapering, and discontinuation. With stepwise tapering of rhTNFR:Fc, flare rates were comparable in AS patients, irrespective of initial ASDAS before tapering.

Conclusion:

Stepwise tapering of rhTNFR:Fc when patients achieved clinical remission was able to maintain favorable low flare rates in 48 weeks. LDA was an alternative therapeutic target, as well as an viable timing for initiation of rhTNFR:Fc tapering. rhTNFR:Fc 25 mg monthly maintained flare-free status in a considerable number of patients. However, abrupt discontinuation of rhTNFR:Fc even if patients achieved clinical remission should be avoided.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03880968, URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03880968
Culturally Responsive Assessment of Physical Science Skills and Abilities: Development, Field Testing, Implementation, and Results
Authors: Alfaiz Fahad S. , Pease Randy , Maker C. June
Published: June 2020

During the Cultivating Diverse Talent in STEM (CDTIS) Project, a team of scientists, teachers, and a researcher developed a performance-based assessment of high school students’ creative problem-solving skills and ability to apply physical science principles in practical ways. It was one of six measures to identify exceptionally talented students. Students identified using conventional methods (M1), with an average grade point average (GPA) of 3.93, had an average rating of 2.95 on a 5-point scale on the mechanical–technical assessment. The M2 students, who were from schools with high percentages of Hispanic, American Indian, and low socioeconomic status (SES) students, had an average GPA of 3.07 and an average rating of 3.27, demonstrating that this assessment can be an important way to change the cultural and economic balance of students identified as exceptionally talented in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Other researchers are encouraged to examine the validity of the mechanical–technical assessment to identify exceptionally talented students in different groups.