bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Bayesian adaptive randomization procedures with adaptive clip methods for multi-arm trials
Authors: May Lee Kim , Lee J Jack
Published: March 2021

Bayesian adaptive randomization is a heuristic approach that aims to randomize more patients to the putatively superior arms based on the trend of the accrued data in a trial. Many statistical aspects of this approach have been explored and compared with other approaches; yet only a limited number of works has focused on improving its performance and providing guidance on its application to real trials. An undesirable property of this approach is that the procedure would randomize patients to an inferior arm in some circumstances, which has raised concerns in its application. Here, we propose an adaptive clip method to rectify the problem by incorporating a data-driven function to be used in conjunction with Bayesian adaptive randomization procedure. This function aims to minimize the chance of assigning patients to inferior arms during the early time of the trial. Moreover, we propose a utility approach to facilitate the selection of a randomization procedure. A cost that reflects the penalty of assigning patients to the inferior arm(s) in the trial is incorporated into our utility function along with all patients benefited from the trial, both within and beyond the trial. We illustrate the selection strategy for a wide range of scenarios.
From Objects to Unified Minds
Authors: Bar Moshe
Published: March 2021

The involvement of top-down processes in perception and cognition is widely acknowledged by now. In fields of research from predictions to inhibition, and from attentional guidance to affect, a great deal has already been charted. Integrating this newer understanding with accumulated findings from the past has made it clear that human experience is determined by a combination of both bottom-up and top-down processes. It has been proposed that the ongoing balance between their relative contribution affects a person’s entire state of mind, an overarching framework that encompasses the breadth of mental activity. According to this proposal, state of mind, in which multiple facets of mind are clumped together functionally and dynamically, orients us to the optimal state for the given circumstances. These ideas are examined here by connecting a broad array of domains in which the balance between top-down and bottom-up processes is apparent. These domains range from object recognition to contextual associations, from pattern of thought to tolerance for uncertainty, and from the default-mode network to mood. From this synthesis emerge numerous hypotheses, implications, and directions for future research in cognitive psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience.
Assessment of breast positioning criteria in mammographic screening: Agreement between artificial intelligence software and radiographers
Authors: Waade Gunvor G , Danielsen Anders Skyrud , Holen Åsne S , Larsen Marthe , Hanestad Berit , Hopland Nina-Merete , Kalcheva Vanya , Hofvind Solveig
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To determine the agreement between artificial intelligence software (AI) and radiographers in assessing breast positioning criteria for mammograms from standard digital mammography and digital breast tomosynthesis.

Methods

Assessment of breast positioning was performed by AI and by four radiographers in pairs of two on 156 examinations of women screened in Bergen, April to September 2019, as part of BreastScreen Norway. Ten criteria were used; three for craniocaudal and seven for mediolateral-oblique view. The criteria evaluated the appearance of the nipple, breast rotation, pectoral muscle, inframammary fold and pectoral nipple line. Intraclass correlation and Cohen’s kappa coefficient (κ) were used to investigate the correlation and agreement between the radiographer’s assessments and AI.

Results

The intraclass correlation for the pectoral nipple line between the radiographers and AI was >0.92. A substantial to almost perfect agreement (κ > 0.69) was observed between the radiographers and AI on the nipple in profile criterion. We observed a slight to moderate agreement for the other criteria (κ = 0.06–0.52) and generally a higher agreement between the two pairs of radiographers (mean κ = 0.70) than between the radiographers and AI (mean κ = 0.41).

Conclusions

AI has great potential in evaluating breast position criteria in mammography by reducing subjectivity. However, varying agreement between radiographers and AI was observed. Standardized and evidence-based criteria for definitions, understandings and assessment methods are needed to reach optimal image quality in mammography.
Status and problems of educational scenario among the tribals in Koraput district, Odisha
Authors: Bindhani Basanta Kumar
Published: March 2021

The present study aims to examine the educational status and the cause of school dropouts, absenteeism, low enrolment and the male-female gap in literacy among tribals of Koraput district of Odisha. A survey was carried in 467 households constituting 1830 villagers to find out the educational status in Koraput district of Odisha. Subsequently, 104 children and adolescents aged between 9 and 16 were selected purposively in terms of schooling profile and household occupation for ascertaining the cause of absenteeism and dropout or leaving the study after primary education. The study found a literacy rate of 32.4% in the studied population and the major causes for school dropout and absenteeism were the economic problem, household work, lack of interest in the study, earning member of the family, parents not interested in studies, distance of schools and difficulties in reaching school, and language of teaching problem.
Preparing Education Students for an International Future? Connecting Students’ Experience to Institutional Contexts
Authors: Alexiadou Nafsika , Kefala Zoi , Rönnberg Linda
Published: March 2021

This article focuses on “internationalization at home” (IaH) for education students in Swedish Universities and its significance for their professional formation and future practice. We draw on research in two large institutions and explore the perceptions and experiences of internationalization of home students in education. We find that while the “intercultural” understanding of students is well developed, the international and intercultural dimensions of experiencing IaH are limited, due to several institutional and learning environment contexts. This has consequences for the social dimensions of future teaching practice. In addition, the perception of the discipline as “national” is significant in shaping the outlook of students toward international questions and their own future personal and professional mobility. We contextualize these findings using documentary analysis and staff interviews, and argue that to achieve intercultural and international learning environments of quality, social relevance, and long-term social benefit, we need to rethink how internationalization perspectives are integrated in teacher education courses.
Visualization and application of disease diagnosis codes for population health management using porcine diseases as a model
Authors: Trevisan Giovani , Schwartz Kent J. , Burrough Eric R. , Arruda Bailey , Derscheid Rachel J. , Rahe Michael C. , Magalhães Edison de Souza , Almeida Marcelo N. , Main Rodger G. , Linhares Daniel C. L.
Published: March 2021

Accurate and timely results of diagnostic investigations and laboratory testing guide clinical interventions for the continuous improvement of animal health and welfare. Infectious diseases can severely limit the health, welfare, and productivity of populations of animals. Livestock veterinarians submit thousands of samples daily to veterinary diagnostic laboratories (VDLs) for disease diagnosis, pathogen monitoring, and surveillance. Individual diagnostic laboratory reports are immediately useful; however, aggregated historical laboratory data are increasingly valued by clinicians and decision-makers to identify changes in the health status of various animal populations over time and geographical space. The value of this historical information is enhanced by visualization of trends of agent detection, disease diagnosis, or both, which helps focus time and resources on the most significant pathogens and fosters more effective communication between livestock producers, veterinarians, and VDL professionals. Advances in data visualization tools allow quick, efficient, and often real-time scanning and analysis of databases to inform, guide, and modify animal health intervention algorithms. Value is derived at the farm, production system, or regional level. Visualization tools allow client-specific analyses, benchmarking, formulation of research questions, and monitoring the effects of disease management and precision farming practices. We present here the approach taken to visualize trends of disease occurrence using porcine disease diagnostic code data for the period 2010 to 2019. Our semi-automatic standardized creation of a visualization platform allowed the transformation of diagnostic report data into aggregated information to visualize and monitor disease diagnosis.
Clinical, pathologic, and toxicologic characterization of Salvia reflexa (lance-leaf sage) poisoning in cattle fed contaminated hay
Authors: Panter Kip E. , Stegelmeier Bryan L. , Gardner Dale R. , Stonecipher Clinton A. , Lee Stephen T. , Kitchen Don , Brackett Adeline , Davis Charlie
Published: March 2021

Salvia reflexa (lance-leaf sage)-contaminated alfalfa hay was fed to ~500 mixed-breed beef cattle. Within hours of exposure, nearly half of the cattle developed lethargy, anorexia, depression, and recumbency, followed by bellowing, colic, and death. Even though the uneaten contaminated hay was removed the first day, nearly 100 animals died within the first 48 h. Three of these cattle were examined postmortem, and tissues and hay samples were collected for microscopic and chemical analysis. Several days later, a smaller number of the clinically poisoned cattle developed neurologic disease with aberrant behavior, aggression, icterus, blindness, exhaustion, and death. A total of 165 cattle were fatally poisoned. Poisoned cattle had swollen, dark, mottled livers that had a prominent nutmeg-like lobular pattern on cut section. Histologically, there was severe centrilobular-to-panlobular hepatic necrosis with marked hepatocellular swelling, degeneration, and necrosis. The surviving cattle developed liver disease characterized by altered serum biochemical analyses and microscopic hepatocellular degeneration and necrosis. In subsequent biopsies and analysis, these lesions resolved within 6–7 mo. After confirming toxicity of the hay in cattle, goats, and mice, followed by a mouse bioassay–guided chemical fractionation process, Salvia reflexa was identified as the contaminant in the hay responsible for the hepatotoxicity. S. reflexa has not been reported previously to cause fatal hepatotoxicity in livestock in North America, to our knowledge.
Cytologic detection of Toxoplasma gondii in the cerebrospinal fluid of a dog and in vitro isolation of a unique mouse-virulent recombinant strain
Authors: Borges-Silva Waléria , Rezende-Gondim Mariana M. , Galvão Gideão S. , Rocha Daniele S. , Albuquerque George R. , Gondim Luís P.
Published: March 2021

Parasites resembling Neospora caninum or Toxoplasma gondii were detected by cytologic examination of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a dog with neurologic disease. The dog became severely ill and was euthanized. Canine tissue homogenates were used for direct parasite isolation in cell culture, bioassay in 2 mouse lineages, and PCR. T. gondii was isolated in monkey kidney cells, and species identity was confirmed by PCR. Inoculated parasites were highly virulent for mice, which developed clinical signs and were euthanized immediately. PCR-RFLP for T. gondii using the cultured isolate (TgDgBA22) was conducted with 12 genetic markers, and a unique recombinant strain was identified. Detection of T. gondii by CSF cytology, although described in humans, had not been reported previously in dogs, to our knowledge, and was crucial for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in the examined dog.
How can I help you? Multiple resource availability promotes generosity with low-value (but not high-value) resources
Authors: Harrell Ashley
Published: March 2021

People commonly possess multiple, differentially-valued resources they can use to benefit those in need: contributing money, volunteering time, donating unwanted possessions, posting on social media to raise awareness, and more. But the majority of experimental work on generosity and helping behavior has studied giving when only a single valuable resource is available to give. This project considers: when people have multiple, differentially-valued resources to use to benefit a dependent other, which resources will they use to help, and how much? Results from an experiment show, first, that generosity is higher with lower-value resources. More importantly, when multiple, differentially-valued resources are available to use to benefit others, helping is higher than when a single resource is available, all else being equal. This is because when multiple resources are available, people are especially willing to give away their relatively lower-value resources. Put differently, when people can benefit others using multiple resources, they are more likely to consider how they should help, rather than whether they should.
Investigation of the Effect of Bone Mineral Density on the Postoperative Outcome of Ankle Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Park Young Hwan , Cho Hyun Woo , Choi Jung Woo , Kim Hak Jun
Published: March 2021

Background:

The association between ankle fractures in elderly patients and low bone mineral density (BMD) has recently been recognized, but the effect of BMD on the postoperative outcome of these fractures is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMD on the postoperative outcome of ankle fractures in elderly patients to evaluate the need for BMD screening.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 48 patients aged 65 years or older who had ankle fractures and underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry to assess BMD after surgical treatment of the fracture. Postoperative outcomes were assessed using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, Kellgren and Lawrence (K&L) grading scale score, and quality of fracture reduction. The correlation between the BMD and the outcome measures at 12 months after surgery was analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results:

The mean absolute value of BMD was 0.6 ± 0.1 g/cm2 (T-score, –1.5 ± 1.2) at the femoral neck and 0.8 ± 0.2 g/cm2 (T-score, –1.2 ± 1.5) at the lumbar spine. Osteoporosis was present in 33% of female patients and in 11% of male patients. At 12 months after surgery, the OMAS was 70 ± 17 and the VAS score for pain was 18 ± 17. Of the patients, 20, 21, 5, 1, and 1 had K&L grades of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. None of the clinical and radiographic outcome measures were correlated with the BMD values of the patients.

Conclusion:

The postoperative outcome of the ankle fractures in elderly patients at 12 months after surgery showed no correlation with femoral neck or lumbar spine BMD at the time of fracture.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Iterative feedback control based on frequency response model for a six-degree-of-freedom micro-vibration platform
Authors: Zhu He , He Shuai , Xu Zhenbang , Wang XiaoMing , Qin Chao , Yang Jianfeng , Zhang Lei
Published: March 2021

In this article, a six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) micro-vibration platform (6-MVP) based on the Gough–Stewart configuration is designed to reproduce the 6-DOF micro-vibration that occurs at the installation surfaces of sensitive space-based instruments such as large space optical loads and laser communications equipment. The platform’s dynamic model is simplified because of the small displacement characteristics of micro-vibrations. By considering the multifrequency line spectrum characteristics of micro-vibrations and the parameter uncertainties, an iterative feedback control strategy based on a frequency response model is designed, and the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified by performing integrated simulations. Finally, micro-vibration experiments are performed with a 10 kg load on the platform. The results of these micro-vibration experiments show that after several iterations, the amplitude control errors are less than 3% and the phase control errors are less than 1°. The control strategy presented in this article offers the advantages of a simple algorithm and high precision and it can also be used to control other similar micro-vibration platforms.
Evaluation of inflammatory biomarkers in patients with keratoconus
Authors: Oltulu Refik , Katipoğlu Zeynep , Gündoğan Ali Osman , Mirza Enver , Belviranlı Selman
Published: March 2021

Objective:

To investigate the monocyte-to-HDL-cholesterol ratio (MHR), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), eosinophil-to-lymphocytes ratio (ELR), platelet distribution width (PDW), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), MPV to platelet count ratio (MPV/PC), and RDW to platelet ratio (RPR) that are accepted as inflammatory markers in patients with keratoconus.

Methods:

In this study, 43 patients with keratoconus and 43 healthy individuals as the control group were retrospectively evaluated. High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), lymphocyte, neutrophil, eosinophil, monocyte, platelet, MPV, PDW, and RDW values were obtained with complete blood count performed on the peripheral blood samples.

Results:

Absolute monocyte (593 ± 182 vs 492 ± 177; p < 0.05) and neutrophil (4860 ± 1553 vs 3954 ± 1297; p < 0.01) counts were statistically significantly higher in the keratoconus groups compared to the control group. MHR (13.18 ± 5.02 vs 9.88 ± 4.45; p < 0.01) and NLR (2.30 ± 0.87 vs 1.77 ± 0.61; p < 0.01) were statistically significantly higher and LMR (4.07 ± 1.67 vs 5.18 ± 2.06; p < 0.01) was significantly lower in the keratoconus group. As a result of univariate logistic regression analysis, it was observed that MHR and NLR were statistically significant relationship with keratoconus ( p = 0.02 and p = 0.021) (Odds ratio = 5.41 (95% CI: 1.169–6.669) and Odds ratio:5.28 (95% CI: 1.024–6.321); respectively). No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of PLR, ELR, RDW, MPV, PDW, MPV/PC, and RPR. Adjusting for age and gender, multivariate regression analysis revealed that MHR was the most significant parameter to demonstrate relationship with keratoconus ( p = 0.025) (Odds ratio = 4.99 (95% CI: 1.019–6.332)).

Conclusion:

MHR and NLR values considered as inflammatory markers were statistically significantly higher and LMR value was significantly lower in the keratoconus group. Among these values, MHR was the most reliable parameter.
Diagnosis and management of secondary malposition of PICC into the azygos vein
Authors: Wang Yaping , Zhao Linfang
Published: March 2021

Background:

Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) has been widely used. The catheter-related complications might occur and the reports of secondary malposition into azygos veins were rare.

Methods:

This retrospective review summarized the experience in diagnosis and management of secondary malposition of PICC into azygos veins in 25 cases.

Results:

When the catheter dysfunction occurred in the PICC on the left limb, it was necessary to consider whether there would be malposition into azygos veins after other reasons were excluded. The malposition could be diagnosed by chest lateral radiograph or chest computed tomography. The secondary malposition into azygos veins was resolved by repositioning or withdrawing the PICC. After re-inserting the catheter, it should be closely monitored whether the malposition occurred again. Intracavitary electrocardiogram positioning technology was used to confirm the catheter tip position before using corrosive drug. After the catheters withdrawn from the azygos veins, close attention should be paid to the property and concentration of the infusion drug strictly and the complications such as blockage and re-malposition. No serious complications such as infection, thrombosis and extravasation occurred in this group of patients after treatment.

Conclusions:

The results of our study suggested that the right limb is recommended for PICC catheterization in order to avoid secondary malposition into azygos veins and the malposition into azygos veins should be dealt with in time.
An Update on the Cutaneous Manifestations of Darier Disease
Authors: Yeshurun Algit , Ziv Michael , Cohen-Barak Eran , Vered Shiraz , Rozenman Dganit , Sah Muhammad , Khayat Morad , Polyakov Olga , Amichai Boaz , Zlotogorski Abraham , Shalev Stavit , Dodiuk-Gad Roni P.
Published: March 2021

Background

Knowledge about the clinical features of Darier disease, an orphan autosomal-dominant genetic disorder, is sparse and has been evaluated only in few studies.

Objectives

To investigate the clinical features of a large group of patients with Darier disease, and to explore for associations between disease characteristics and severity of the disease.

Methods

Seventy-six individuals with Darier disease were evaluated utilizing a structured questionnaire-based interview, a physical examination, and a retrospective assessment of their medical records.

Results

The most frequent locations of lesions were hands (99%) and fingernails (93%). Wart-like lesions on the hands were more visible after soaking them in water for 5 minutes, we therefore named this phenomenon the “wet hand sign”. Oral involvement was found in 43% of patients, while 48% of women and 16% of men showed genital lesions. Patients with severe Darier disease had a tenfold greater risk of developing genital lesions than those with mild disease ( P = .01). Most patients (88%) in our study exhibited a combination of the four types of the disease patterns of distribution (flexural, seborrheic, nevoid, and acral).

Conclusions

Documentation of disease on the hands and fingernails provides a highly sensitive means to aid in the diagnosis of Darier disease. It is important to evaluate mucosal lesions including genital and oral mucosa.
Explaining elite perceptions of legitimacy in global governance
Authors: Verhaegen Soetkin , Scholte Jan Aart , Tallberg Jonas
Published: March 2021

Elites are central in creating, operating, defending and contesting international organisations (IOs), but little research is available about their attitudes toward these bodies. To address this gap, this article offers the first systematic and comparative analysis of elite perceptions of IO legitimacy. Building on a unique multi-country and multi-sector survey of 860 elites undertaken in 2017–19, we map and explain elite legitimacy beliefs toward three key IOs in different issue-areas: the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Integrating public opinion research and international relations theory, the article advances an explanation of elites’ legitimacy beliefs that emphasises their satisfaction with the institutional qualities of IOs. We contrast this argument with three common alternative explanations, which respectively highlight utilitarian calculation, global orientation and domestic cues. The analyses show that elites’ satisfaction with institutional qualities of IOs is most consistently related to legitimacy beliefs: when elites are more satisfied with democracy, effectiveness and fairness in IOs, they also regard these IOs as more legitimate. These findings suggest that the prevailing debate between utilitarian calculation, global orientation and domestic cues approaches neglects the importance of institutional satisfaction as an explanation of attitudes toward IOs.
Generations of BDSM Czech style: The elimination of roles in role-playing?
Authors: Drdová Lucie , Saxonberg Steven
Published: March 2021

Recently, there has been a “research boom” on the topic of BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism and masochism). Studies have covered a wide range of countries including the UK, USA, Brazil and Western Germany. Nevertheless, ethnographical research of the BDSM subculture in a postcommunist state has been extremely rare. In fact, there have not been many studies on postcommunist subcultures in general. This study explores how the BDSM subculture has been evolving in the Czech Republic after the fall of the communism. The focus is on the intergenerational conflict that has arisen between the first and second generations of the Czech BDSM scene. The history of Czech BDSM subculture has never been studied. Except for a few tables showing data and events, BDSM practitioners themselves in the Czech Republic have no written documents about how they created the subculture, how it was established and what pitfalls they needed to overcome. In contrast to studies of the BDSM scene in such countries as the UK which had long-standing democracies, the Czech scene could only emerge after the overthrow of the communist-ruled dictatorship in 1989. Consequently, the scene is newer and it developed in a situation in which the first generation was culturally much more tied to the communist-past than the second generation. We show how the scene might have developed differently when taking place in the post-communist context.
Situating ‘careful surveillance’
Authors: Andrejevic Mark , Davies Hugh , DeSouza Ruth , Hjorth Larissa , Richardson Ingrid
Published: March 2021

In this article we explore preliminary findings from the study COVIDSafe and Beyond: Perceptions and Practices conducted in Australia in 2020. The study involved a survey followed by interviews, and aimed to capture the dynamic ways in which members of the Australian public perceive the impact of Covid practices – especially public health measures like the introduction of physical and social distancing, compulsory mask wearing, and contact tracing. In the rescripting of public space, different notions of formal and informal surveillance, along with different textures of mediated and social care, appeared. In this article, we explore perceptions around divergent forms of surveillance across social, technological, governmental modes, and the relationship of surveillance to care in our media and cultural practices. What does it mean to care for self and others during a pandemic? How does care get enacted in, and through, media interfaces and public interaction?
Australians’ divergent opinions about Islam and Muslims
Authors: Ewart Jacqui , O’Donnell Kate , Walding Shannon
Published: March 2021

Using data from a random stratified sample of people over 18 years of age residing in Australia, this article examines participants’ opinions of the Islamic faith independently of their opinions of Muslim people. Earlier studies have not made the nuanced distinction between opinions about Islam as a religion and opinions about Muslims as people. Theoretical approaches suggest that there is a difference in the opinions non-Muslims have of Muslims and their religion. The non-Muslim Australians we surveyed have very different opinions about the religion of Islam than they do about Muslims, with significantly higher levels of favourablity towards Muslims than towards their religion. Our findings in this latter respect are somewhat at odds with the body of international literature, which suggests it is Muslims, with their cultures, lifestyles and values, that non-Muslims perceive to be problematic. We explain the implications of our findings for government and researchers.
Dealing with disagreement: The depolarizing effects of everyday diplomatic skills face-to-face and online
Authors: Roos Carla Anne , Koudenburg Namkje , Postmes Tom
Published: March 2021

In online text-based discussions, people behave less diplomatically because they are more outspoken and less responsive. This can feed impressions of polarization. This article uses a new methodology to isolate the influence of outspokenness and responsiveness in shaping perceptions of polarization in online chat and face-to-face discussions. Text-based online and face-to-face discussions were reproduced in a face-to-face format (Study 1) and in a text-based chat format (Study 2). Uninformed observers (N = 102 and N = 103, repeated measures) evaluated these. The results showed that responsiveness was generally considered indicative of agreement and good social relationships but the interpretation of outspokenness (or lack of ambiguity) depended on the medium format. This suggests that what counts as diplomacy is not the same for each medium. Moreover, the experiences of the actors reproducing the chats in a face-to-face format highlighted the differences between media. We conclude that online conversational dynamics may play an important role in societal polarization.
Game on! A randomised controlled trial evaluation of playable technology in improving body satisfaction and negative affect among adolescents
Authors: Matheson Emily L , Smith Harriet G , Lewis-Smith Helena , Arbon Robert E , Diedrichs Phillippa C
Published: March 2021

Playables are mini-games used in digital advertising and may offer a novel and engaging avenue to improve young people’s well-being at scale. This randomised controlled trial evaluated the immediate impact and protective properties of a psychoeducational playable on adolescents’ body satisfaction and negative affect, and engagement in prosocial behaviours, relative to two active control conditions. Girls and boys aged 13–14 years ( N = 6575) were randomised into one of three conditions: body image playable, body image social networking posts (i.e. static images of the body image playable messages; control 1) or an ocean conservation playable (control 2). Both body image micro-interventions significantly improved state body satisfaction and negative affect, relative to the oceanic playable. No condition buffered against the negative effects associated with viewing idealised media images. Developing playables to counteract the potentially harmful effects associated with surrounding digital environments is a promising avenue for mental health.
From observation on social media to offline political participation: The social media affordances approach
Authors: Kim Dam Hee , Ellison Nicole B.
Published: March 2021

Building on prior studies suggesting that social media can facilitate offline political participation, this study seeks to clarify the mechanism behind this link. Social media may encourage social learning of political engagement due to their unique affordances such as visibility (i.e. once-invisible political activities by others are now visible on social media feeds). By analyzing a two-wave survey conducted before the 2016 presidential election in the United States, this study tests a theoretical model in which observation of others’ political activities on social media inspires users themselves to model similar political behaviors, which foster offline political participation. Autoregressive models show that the link between political observation and activities on social media is stronger among users surrounded with similar others and politically homogeneous networks. The results highlight the need to cultivate engaged citizenship norms for individuals’ political activities on social media to be carried over to participation beyond the realm of social media.
Gender differences in mathematics outcomes at different levels of locality to inform policy and practice
Authors: Cascella Clelia , Williams Julian Scott , Pampaka Maria
Published: March 2021

This paper reports research into the relationship between personal and contextual variables and gendered differences in students’ attainment in mathematics that take account of ‘place’ at different levels of intra-national locality (i.e. regional and macro-geographical levels, within the same country). A multilevel analysis performed on secondary data collected in Italy, where on average boys outperform girls in mathematics, showed that gender differences at local levels are complex and nuanced and not always consistent with the national picture. Moreover, gender differences in mathematics are associated with socio-cultural and economic factors that vary by region. We argue that educational research focusing on national and international level findings (such as for example PISA) should explore the association between gender differences in mathematics and sub-national socio-cultural and economic contexts in order to adequately inform policy and practice. Finally, we suggest that European researchers of inequality may need to attend to regionality and localities of place, and that the principle of subsidiarity could imply that policy and practice be devolved to the levels that research proves to be relevant.
Effects of Temporary Mark Withholding on Academic Performance
Authors: Kuepper-Tetzel Carolina E. , Gardner Paul L.
Published: March 2021

Although feedback engagement is important for learning, students often do not engage with provided feedback to inform future assignments. One factor for low feedback uptake is the easy access to grades. Thus, systematically delaying the grade release in favor of providing feedback first— temporary mark withholding—may increase students’ engagement with feedback. We tested the hypothesis that temporary mark withholding would have positive effects on (a) future academic performance (Experiments 1 and 2) and (b) feedback engagement (Experiment 2) in authentic psychology university settings. For Experiment 1, 116 Year 2 students were randomly assigned to either a Grade-before-feedback or Feedback-before-grade condition for their report in semester 1 and performance was measured on a similar assessment in semester 2. In Experiment 2, a Year 3 student cohort ( t) was provided with feedback on their lab report before marks were released in semester 1 (mark withholding group, N = 97) and compared to the previous Year 3 cohort ( t-1) where individual feedback and grades were released simultaneously (historical control group, N = 90). Using this multi-methodological approach, we reveal positive effects of temporary mark withholding on future academic performance and students’ feedback engagement in authentic higher education settings. Practical implications are discussed.
Motivation and personality traits in adult learners
Authors: Urban Kamila , Jirsáková Jitka
Published: March 2021

In contrast to traditional students, post-traditional students follow a broken path through the education system. Therefore, they are older when studying and often have jobs and families. The aim of the present study was to investigate motivation and personality character traits in 67 adult learners (part-time students) and 84 traditional students using the Czech version of the Business-Focused Inventory of Personality. Adult learners reported a higher level in all aspects of their personality in relation to working life, such as occupational orientation and behaviour, social competencies, and psychological constitution. These findings indicate that, from study-related requirements, part-time students pose higher achievement and motivation, and that they are more conscientious in relation to work and study.
Filtration performance of biaxial circular seamless knitted filter material based on electrostatic adsorption
Authors: Mao Haiwen , Pan Zhijuan
Published: March 2021

In order to solve the problem of dust accumulation at the joints of traditional filter materials and the reduction of filtration efficiency, weft knitting was selected to make the fabric cylindrical unwinding machine. The cylindrical filter material was formed by cylindrical needling machine in the later period. This type of novel seamless filter material was compared with the traditional one on the filtration performance and numerical simulation of filtration performance. The results show that when the warp and weft lining yarns in the seamless filter material were PTFE monofilaments containing tourmaline particles, the filtration efficiency was the optimal due to the presence of the surface static voltage. The filtration efficiency could greatly be improved by 7.24%. The relationship between the surface static voltage and distance was exponential. The filter material with electrostatic field on the surface increased the active filtration of electrostatic adsorption in addition to the passive filtration. This type of seamless filter material provided research and development ideas and theoretical guidance for the development and application of filter materials.
The Efficacy of First-Generation EGFR-TKI Combined With Brain Radiotherapy as the First-Line Treatment for Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients With Brain Metastases and EGFR Sensitive Mutations: A Retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yuting , Wang Juanjuan , Wu Jingjing , Yang Qifan , Zeng Yulan , Wu Di , Tian Chen , Hu Yue , Gu Feifei , Li Chang , Zhang Kai , Liu Li
Published: March 2021

Background:

It was controversial that whether LUAD patients with brain metastases (BMs) and EGFR sensitive mutations should be conducted using brain radiotherapy when treated with first-generation EGFR-TKI. Herein, a retrospective study was designed to compare the efficacy of first-generation EGFR-TKI combined with brain radiotherapy and EGFR-TKI alone as first-line treatment for these LUAD patients.

Patients and Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the status of patients with advanced LUAD carrying EGFR sensitive mutations who received first-generation EGFR-TKI treatment in our center. iPFS was the first time of intracranial progression or death from the diagnosis of BMs, PFS was the time of progression of any site or death from the diagnosis of BMs, and OS was the time of confirmed BMs to death or the last follow-up time. Differences in characteristics between groups were compared using the Chi-square test. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the iPFS, PFS, and OS. Univariate analysis, multivariate analysis, and subgroup analysis were conducted by Cox regression model.

Results:

There were 77 patients (77/134, 57.5%) in the TKI + RT group and 57 patients (57/134, 42.5%) in the TKI group. TKI + RT group had a significant higher intracranial ORR and DCR, and the combination therapy was independently significantly associated with a longer iPFS (18.9 vs. 10.5 months, P = 0.0009), systematic PFS (12.5 vs. 8.4 months, P = 0.0071) and OS (30.8 vs. 22.7 months, P = 0.0183). Females, non-smokers, and younger patients benefited more from the combination therapy. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that the combination therapy could improve the iPFS in patients with more than 3 BMs ( P = 0.005); however, it couldn’t improve the OS for these patients.

Conclusion:

Our study confirmed the effect of the combination of EGFR-TKI and brain radiotherapy as first-line treatment for LUAD patients with BMs and EGFR sensitive mutations.
Treatment of Super-Refractory Status Epilepticus: A Review
Authors: Ochoa Juan G. , Dougherty Michelle , Papanastassiou Alex , Gidal Barry , Mohamed Ismail , Vossler David G.
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

Super-refractory status epilepticus (SRSE) presents management challenges due to the absence of randomized controlled trials and a plethora of potential medical therapies. The literature on treatment options for SRSE reports variable success and quality of evidence. This review is a sequel to the 2020 American Epilepsy Society (AES) comprehensive review of the treatment of convulsive refractory status epilepticus (RSE).

Methods:

We sought to determine the effectiveness of treatment options for SRSE. We performed a structured literature search (MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL) for studies on reported treatments of SRSE. We excluded antiseizure medications (ASMs) covered in the 2016 AES guideline on the treatment of established SE and the convulsive RSE comprehensive review of the 2020 AES. Literature was reviewed on the effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation, ketogenic diet (KD), lidocaine, inhalation anesthetics, brain surgery, therapeutic hypothermia, perampanel, pregabalin (PGB), and topiramate in the treatment of SRSE. Two authors reviewed each therapeutic intervention. We graded the level of the evidence according to the 2017 classification scheme of the American Academy of Neurology.

Results:

For SRSE (level U; 39 class IV studies total), insufficient evidence exists to support that perampanel, PGB, lidocaine, or acute vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is effective. For children and adults with SRSE, insufficient evidence exists to support that the KD is effective (level U; 5 class IV studies). For adults with SRSE, insufficient evidence exists that brain surgery is effective (level U, 7 class IV studies). For adults with SRSE insufficient, evidence exists that therapeutic hypothermia is effective (level C, 1 class II and 4 class IV studies). For neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, insufficient evidence exists that therapeutic hypothermia reduces seizure burden (level U; 1 class IV study). For adults with SRSE, insufficient evidence exists that inhalation anesthetics are effective (level U, 1 class IV study) and that there is a potential risk of neurotoxicity.

Conclusion:

For patients with SRSE insufficient, evidence exists that any of the ASMs reviewed, inhalational anesthetics, ketogenic diet, acute VNS, brain surgery, and therapeutic hypothermia are effective treatments. Data supporting the use of these treatments for SRSE are scarce and limited mainly to small case series and case reports and are confounded by differences in patients’ population, and comedications, among other factors.
Predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria
Authors: Olaoye Olumide Ayoola , Soeker Shaheed Moghammad , Anthea Rhoda
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Stroke is acknowledged globally and among Nigerian rehabilitation researchers as a public health problem that leaves half of its survivors with significant neurological deficits and inability to re-establish pre-existing roles. Consequent to the dearth of country specific data on return to work and its determinants for stroke survivors in Nigeria, this study investigated the predictors of return to work among stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria.

Method

Two hundred and ten stroke survivors from five tertiary health facilities in Osun state, Nigeria responded to a validated three-section questionnaire assessing return to work rates and its determinants after stroke in this study. Collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistic of chi-square, t-test and multiple logistic regression.

Result

The mean age of the respondents was 52.90 ± 7.92 years. Over 60% of the respondents returned to work with about half of them in full time employment (32.9%). Majority of the respondents noted that travel to and from work (43.8%) and access at work (43.3%) had an impact on their ability to work. The symptoms of stroke (odds ratio (OR) = 0.87), the environment (OR = 0.83), body function impairments (OR = 0.86) as well as activity and participation problems (OR = 0.80) were the significant predictors of return to work. Hemiplegia or paresis of the non-dominant side of the body was associated with a higher chance of return to work (OR = 7.64).

Conclusion

Body function impairments, activity and participation problems were independent predictors of return to work after stroke. Similarly, side of hemiplegia plays a prominent role in resumption of the worker role of stroke survivors in south-west Nigeria.
Deep neural network-based detection and segmentation of intracranial aneurysms on 3D rotational DSA
Authors: Liu Xinke , Feng Junqiang , Wu Zhenzhou , Neo Zhonghao , Zhu Chengcheng , Zhang Peifang , Wang Yan , Jiang Yuhua , Mitsouras Dimitrios , Li Youxiang
Published: March 2021

Objective

Accurate diagnosis and measurement of intracranial aneurysms are challenging. This study aimed to develop a 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) model to detect and segment intracranial aneurysms (IA) on 3D rotational DSA (3D-RA) images.

Methods

3D-RA images were collected and annotated by 5 neuroradiologists. The annotated images were then divided into three datasets: training, validation, and test. A 3D Dense-UNet-like CNN (3D-Dense-UNet) segmentation algorithm was constructed and trained using the training dataset. Diagnostic performance to detect aneurysms and segmentation accuracy was assessed for the final model on the test dataset using the free-response receiver operating characteristic (FROC). Finally, the CNN-inferred maximum diameter was compared against expert measurements by Pearson’s correlation and Bland-Altman limits of agreement (LOA).

Results

A total of 451 patients with 3D-RA images were split into n = 347/41/63 training/validation/test datasets, respectively. For aneurysm detection, observed FROC analysis showed that the model managed to attain a sensitivity of 0.710 at 0.159 false positives (FP)/case, and 0.986 at 1.49 FP/case. The proposed method had good agreement with reference manual aneurysmal maximum diameter measurements (8.3 ± 4.3 mm vs. 7.8 ± 4.8 mm), with a correlation coefficient r = 0.77, small bias of 0.24 mm, and LOA of -6.2 to 5.71 mm. 37.0% and 77% of diameter measurements were within ±1 mm and ±2.5 mm of expert measurements.

Conclusions

A 3D-Dense-UNet model can detect and segment aneurysms with relatively high accuracy using 3D-RA images. The automatically measured maximum diameter has potential clinical application value.
Study on heat transfer behavior and thermal breakage characteristic of the charge in ball mills
Authors: Li Tongqing , Yin Zixin , Wu Guiyi
Published: March 2021

Ball mill is the widely used comminution device for the size reduction of iron ore particles, yet the underlying mechanisms of heat transfer and thermal breakage inside the mills heretofore are not deeply understood. Therefore, the Discrete element method was carried out to study the effect of operating parameters on charge temperature, and the batch grinding experiments of iron ores were conducted to verify the heating temperatures using a laboratory ball mill. Results show that increasing mill speed will result in the charge temperature increasing initially and then decreasing. The temperature fields of the charge and load behavior remain approximately the same for the different ball filling. The main findings of this study are that the heating temperature can contribute to enhancing the breakage behavior of iron ore particles, and correspondingly the optimal feed sizes for different heating temperatures are determined to be 2.48 mm, 2.63 mm, 2.78 mm, and 3.59 mm, respectively.