bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CausaLM: Causal Model Explanation Through Counterfactual Language Models
Authors: Feder Amir , Oved Nadav , Shalit Uri , Reichart Roi
Published: March 2021

Understanding predictions made by deep neural networks is notoriously difficult, but also crucial to their dissemination. As all machine learning–based methods, they are as good as their training data, and can also capture unwanted biases. While there are tools that can help understand whether such biases exist, they do not distinguish between correlation and causation, and might be ill-suited for text-based models and for reasoning about high level language concepts. A key problem of estimating the causal effect of a concept of interest on a given model is that this estimation requires the generation of counterfactual examples, which is challenging with existing generation technology. To bridge that gap, we propose CausaLM, a framework for producing causal model explanations using counterfactual language representation models. Our approach is based on fine-tuning of deep contextualized embedding models with auxiliary adversarial tasks derived from the causal graph of the problem. Concretely, we show that by carefully choosing auxiliary adversarial pre-training tasks, language representation models such as BERT can effectively learn a counterfactual representation for a given concept of interest, and be used to estimate its true causal effect on model performance. A byproduct of our method is a language representation model that is unaffected by the tested concept, which can be useful in mitigating unwanted bias ingrained in the data.
Technology and Ecosocialism
Authors: Wallis Victor
Published: March 2021

Ecosocialist technology is technology guided by universal human need and by concern for the health of the natural environment. It contrasts with capitalist technology, which is driven above all by the imperatives of cost-reduction and profit-maximization within a market whose contours are shaped by the owners or state agents of capital. The contrast between ecosocialist and capitalist technology appears across all sectors of production and services. Following a theoretical overview, we examine the sectors of transport, housing, and food production and reflect on the newest technologies of communication, surveillance, and artificial intelligence. I argue that devices and infrastructures that would transform the conditions of life should in all cases be subject, at the planning stage, to full disclosure, informed public debate, and democratic resolution.
Meaning and Update of the Historical Silk Road: Globalization from East to West
Authors: Suša Oleg
Published: March 2021

The article analyzes the historical Silk Road in its long-term development. It entails reflections on the knowledge of Eastern global interactions providing a long-term contextual framework for Eurasia as a single continent. Eurasian globalization influenced the interactions of regions from China and India, through Western Asia, the Middle East, Eastern and Northern Africa and the Mediterranean, and the south of Europe. An important role was played by the Silk Road, as the main historical long-term network of global interactions and communication, which is now being echoed in the new current global initiatives, particularly the Belt and Road Initiative, which updates the historical Silk Road.
Storm-Scale Dynamical Changes of Extratropical Transition Events in Present-Day and Future High-Resolution Global Simulations
Authors: Michaelis Allison C. , Lackmann Gary M.
Published: March 2021

Tropical cyclones (TCs) propagating into baroclinic midlatitude environments can transform into extratropical cyclones, in some cases resulting in high-impact weather conditions far from the tropics. This study extends analysis of extratropical transition (ET) changes in multiseasonal global simulations using the Model for Prediction Across Scales–Atmosphere (MPAS-A) under present-day and projected future conditions. High resolution (15 km) covers the Northern Hemisphere; TCs and ET events are tracked based on sea level pressure minima accompanied by a warm core and use of a cyclone phase space method. Previous analysis of these simulations showed large changes in ET over the North Atlantic (NATL) basin, with ET events exhibiting a 4°–5° northward latitudinal shift and ~6-hPa strengthening of the post-transition extratropical cyclone. Storm-relative composites, primarily representing post-transformation cold-core events, indicate that this increase in post-transition storm intensity is associated with an intensification of the neighboring upper-level trough and downstream ridge, and a poleward shift in the storm center, conducive to enhanced trough–TC interactions after ET completion. Additionally, the future composite ET event is located in the right-jet entrance of an outflow jet that is strengthened relative to its present-day counterpart. Localized impacts associated with ET events, such as heavy precipitation and strong near-surface winds, are significantly enhanced in the future-climate simulations; 6-hourly precipitation for NATL events increases at a super-Clausius–Clapeyron rate with area-average precipitation increasing over 30%. Furthermore, intensified precipitation contributes to enhanced lower-tropospheric potential vorticity and stronger upper-tropospheric outflow, implying the potential for more extreme downstream impacts under the future climate scenario.
Piercing the Pandemic Social Bubble: Disability and Social Media Use About COVID-19
Authors: Dobransky Kerry , Hargittai Eszter
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing stay-at-home orders caused tremendous restrictions in social contacts, which led to increasing use of the internet for daily tasks and social interactions. As prior research has established, people with disabilities (PWD) had already been using the internet for such purposes prior to the pandemic, especially for health-related content. Through a national survey administered during the first few weeks of the pandemic in the United States, we explore how people with and without disabilities used social media to exchange information and engage in activities about COVID-19. Findings reveal that PWD were more engaged with information about COVID-19 than those without disabilities, even when controlling for sociodemographics and internet experiences and skills. These differences are especially pronounced concerning more active engagement such as sharing information, interacting, and supporting others on social media. Although the content is about a health crisis in which PWD are disproportionately vulnerable, these effects largely remain when we enter controls for health status, belonging to high-risk groups for COVID-19, and personal experiences with COVID-19. Findings highlight the benefits of universal design, both for PWD specifically, and for society more broadly, as the general population ramps up use of tools long fought for and used by PWD.
The Influence of Political Actors in the Digital Public Debate on Twitter About the Negotiations for the Formation of the Government in Spain
Authors: Casero-Ripollés Andreu , Alonso-Muñoz Laura , Marcos-García Silvia
Published: March 2021

Social media has introduced new parameters that can potentially transform the digital political conversation. Traditionally, in the age of mass communication, public debate was dominated by politicians and journalists. However, digital platforms, primarily Twitter, have allowed other social actors to join the political discussion, trying to influence it. The objective of this research is to establish what factors enable the authority and digital influence of political actors in the public debate on Twitter. We use a big data sample of 127.3 million tweets from the negotiation process around the formation of the Government in Spain. The applied methodology is based on social network analysis and machine learning. The results show that ideology, political initiative, and political career are configured as factors capable of conditioning the authority and influence of political actors in the political conversation on Twitter.
The Real-World CONSEQUENT ALL COMERS Study: Predictors for Target Lesion Revascularization and Mortality in an Unselected Patient Population
Authors: Langhoff Ralf , Arjumand Jawed , Waliszewski Matthias , Reimer Peter , Härtel Dirk , Hohl Christian , Raut Werner , Romani Sebastian , Alós Jesús , Martínez Esaú , Schmidt Albrecht , Yahya Shaiful Azmi , Riazi Hadi , Korosoglou Grigorios
Published: March 2021

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of a resveratrol-paclitaxel-coated peripheral balloon catheter in an all-comer patient cohort undergoing endovascular treatment of above-the-knee and below-the-knee peripheral artery disease. CONSEQUENT ALL COMERS (Clinical Post-Market Clinical Follow-up [PMCF] on Peripheral Arteries treated with SeQuent Please OTW [Over-the Wire]) is a prospective, single-arm, multicenter observational study (ClinicalTrials Identifier: NCT02460042). The primary end point was the 12-month target lesion revascularization (TLR) rate. Secondary end points included vessel patency, target vessel revascularization, and all-cause mortality. A total of 879 lesions in 784 consecutive patients (71.3 ± 10.4 years old, 57.7% male) were analyzed; 53.3% had claudication, whereas the remaining 46.7% exhibited critical limb ischemia (CLI). Substantial comorbidities were present, including diabetes mellitus (41.2%), smoking (66.1%), and coronary artery disease (33.9%). Lesion length (879 lesions) was 12.0 ± 9.3 cm and 31.8% were Transatlantic Inter-Society Consensus II C/D lesions. The overall technical success rate of the 1269 drug-coated balloon (DCB)’s used was 99.6% (1.60 ± 0.79 DCB’s/patient). At 12 months, the TLR rates were 6.3% in patients with CLI and 9.6% in claudicants, with a primary patency rate of 89.9% and 87.1%, respectively. All-cause mortality was 4.3% (28/658). The most important predictors for TLR were female gender, in-stent restenosis at baseline and lesion length.
School Punishment, Deterrence, and Race: A Partial Test of Defiance Theory
Authors: Pesta Racheal
Published: March 2021

Rather than serving as a deterrent, exclusionary discipline tends to lead to a host of short and long-term negative outcomes. The mechanisms which propel students from exclusionary discipline toward these negative outcomes is understudied. The negative impact of school sanctions is particularly salient among students of color; yet the reasons for this are unclear. Informed by Sherman’s defiance theory, this study utilizes data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent and Adult Health (Add Health) to identify these mechanisms among a sample of white and black students. Results suggest that defiance theory provides a theoretically relevant framework for understanding the impact of school sanctions on future outcomes as well as how the effects vary across race.
Performance analysis of different predictive models for condition monitoring of direct drive wind turbine generator
Authors: Liu Jui-Hung , Corbita Nelson T
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a performance analysis of predictive models for the generator module which can be used as a reference for improvement in the condition monitoring system using wind turbines in a wind farm in Taiwan. With the generator being a critical component prone to failures, it is important to perform data analysis on its parameters that could be used for condition monitoring. The main innovative feature in this framework is the conduct of performance analysis before the development of the condition monitoring system. Also, the consistency of the performance between the different wind turbines in the wind farm is evaluated. The predictive models are generated using the neural network algorithm with a different combination of parameters from the SCADA system. The correlation of the parameters as well as the mean square error of the predictive models were then computed for analysis. Results showed that pairing of input parameters with a higher correlation to the output parameter would give better performance for the predictive model. Furthermore, the performance of the different models was consistent throughout the different wind turbines in the wind farm which indicates that the same model can be developed and used for wind turbines belonging to the same wind farm. Employing a preliminary performance analysis of different combinations of component parameters could help in optimizing predictive models for condition monitoring.
The Impact of Ambiguity-induced Error in Offender Decision-making: Evidence from the Field
Authors: Midgette Greg , Loughran Thomas A. , Tahamont Sarah
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

To invoke behavioral economics theories of ambiguity in the context of offender decision-making, and to test the impact of ambiguity in punishment certainty on offender decisions.

Methods:

We leverage a quasi-experimental condition among a sample of drunk driving arrestees that are tested for alcohol use and subject to mandatory brief incarceration for a violation. The treatment condition relaxes a zero-tolerance alcohol rule, thereby introducing design-based ambiguity surrounding the certainty of punishment. We use Mahalanobis matching and propensity score weighting methods to estimate the impact of ambiguity on violations. We then interrogate this finding with complementary sensitivity analyses.

Results:

When facing the ambiguity condition participants are 27–28 percentage points (84–93 percent) more likely to violate program conditions after 30 days of supervision. We demonstrate that a statistical difference in violations due to ambiguity is still detectible at 90 and 180 days of supervision. These results are robust to alternative specifications and falsification tests.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to examine the impact of ambiguity on criminal justice program compliance using a quasi-experiment from the field. We further demonstrate the unintended costs to persons under supervision and jurisdictions of laxity in program design, which are applicable across criminal justice domains.
Social Classes and Capital Accumulation in Recent Argentina: The 2008 Agrarian Conflict
Authors: Pérez Trento Nicolás
Published: March 2021

In March 2008, the passage of a law to amend grain export taxes in Argentina led to a clash between rural organizations and the national administration. Given its characteristics and political consequences, this clash was one of the most significant events of the Kirchnerist administrations and one of the most outstanding agrarian conflicts in Argentine history. An analysis of it in the context of Argentina’s specific pattern of capital accumulation, in which land appropriation by the industrial sector is significant in explaining valorization capacity, shows how economic determinations affected the political actions of the pertinent social subjects and how the conflict was resolved in favor of the rural bloc.

En marzo de 2008, la aprobación de una ley para modificar los impuestos a la exportación de granos en Argentina condujo a un enfrentamiento entre las organizaciones rurales y la administración nacional. Dadas sus características y consecuencias políticas, este choque fue uno de los más significativos durante las administraciones kirchneristas y uno de los conflictos agrarios más destacados de la historia argentina. Un análisis del mismo en el contexto del patrón específico de acumulación de capital en la Argentina, en el que la apropiación de la renta de la tierra por parte del sector industrial ayuda a explicar la capacidad de valorización, da cuenta de cómo los factores económicos afectaron las acciones políticas de sujetos sociales pertinentes y cómo fue que se resolvió el conflicto a favor del bloque rural.
A “full spectrum-domain-time” coalbed gas utilization model and its application in mining area
Authors: Linghu Jianshe , Chen Jinhua , Zhou Jianbin , Jiang Wangang
Published: March 2021

Coalbed gas (CBG) has been widely used as an important energy source. However, its utilization and allocation system is imperfect in mining areas. During the utilization process, a large amount of CBG is discharged into the air, causing environmental pollution. In this study, we proposed a “full spectrum-domain-time” CBG utilization model. In this model, by combining high methane concentration gas power generation, low methane concentration gas purification, and ultra-low methane concentration gas thermal storage and oxidation utilization, we were able to utilize CBG with full-spectrum of methane concentrations. In addition, by establishing CBG transportation and storage system in mining area, we were able to realize CBG supply in the entire network domain. Furthermore, based on the time series prediction algorithm, the CBG demand of different mining areas is predicted and regulatorily met by real time allocation. Through these three steps, an efficient “full spectrum-domain-time” CBG utilization system was formed and practically applied in Yangquan mining area. The application results showed that under the comprehensive control of “full spectrum-domain-time” CBG utilization model, CBG with methane concentration ≥0.2% could be used in the mining area and its utilization rate increased year by year, reaching the highest of 77.15%. Overall, our study provided a reference for the efficient CBG utilization in the mining area.
The concept of publicness in Kant’s critical method of metaphysics
Authors: Baghai Farshid
Published: March 2021

Kant’s writings on political philosophy do not clearly and conclusively determine its place and significance in his critical philosophy. To address this issue, most accounts of Kant’s political philosophy concentrate on his explicitly political texts that cluster around the second and third Critiques. Although many of these interpretations illuminate different aspects of Kant’s political philosophy, they are silent with regard to a concept of publicness that is implied in the first Critique. This article suggests that Kant’s critical method of metaphysics implies a disciplinary conception of publicness, which is foundational for his political philosophy. It demonstrates how this conception of publicness can be found in the Doctrine of Method of the first Critique, more specifically, in Kant’s argument that all acts of reason must be subjected to the discipline of pure reason.
Should pulmonary radiographs be taken routinely following paediatric tracheostomy?
Authors: Yener Nazik , Üdürgücü Muhammed , Alaçam Fatma , Şükrü Paksu Muhammed , Sarı İrem , Ceyhan Bilgici Meltem
Published: March 2021

Aim

As the rates of complications related to tracheostomy procedures have fallen in recent years, the routine taking of pulmonary radiographs following tracheostomy has become a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of complications developing in 120 children who had pulmonary radiographs taken following surgical tracheostomy and to thereby evaluate the necessity of routine pulmonary radiographs after tracheostomy.

Methods

The data were retrospectively reviewed of 120 children who had pulmonary radiographs taken following surgical tracheostomy between January 2012 and January 2018. The pulmonary radiographs taken before and immediately after tracheostomy were evaluated independently by two paediatric radiology specialists and the results were recorded.

Results

The incidence of complications after tracheostomy was determined as 23.3%, and no pneumothorax was determined in any patient. An increase was not seen in the complication incidence in those who had undergone emergency tracheostomy and patients aged < 2 years, which are accepted as high-risk groups. In the evaluation of the pre- and post-tracheostomy radiographs, new findings were determined on the post-tracheostomy radiograph that had not been there previously in eight patients (6.6%). These findings were newly formed infiltration in seven patients (5.8%), and malposition of the tracheostomy tube in one patient (0.8%). No pathology requiring intervention was determined on the radiographs of any patient.

Conclusion

The results of this study support the view that it is not necessary to take pulmonary radiographs routinely following tracheostomy in the paediatric age group, including those at higher risk.
A case of paragonimiasis inducing bilateral pneumothorax with lung and liver involvement
Authors: Ha Ji Sung , Lee Jang Young , Sung Won Young , Seo Sang Won , Lee Won Suk
Published: March 2021

Pulmonary paragonimiasis can occasionally induce bilateral pneumothorax and cause lesions in ectopic organs such as the liver. We report the case of a 26-year-old man who had been treated for bilateral hydropneumothorax one month earlier and returned to the emergency center complaining of epigastric pain that had persisted for four months. After being diagnosed with pulmonary and hepatic paragonimiasis, he was treated with praziquantel and his condition improved without complications.
Gender-related propensity score match analysis of ECMO therapy in postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock in patients after myocardial revascularization
Authors: Gerfer Stephen , Gaisendrees Christopher , Djordjevic Ilija , Ivanov Borko , Merkle Julia , Eghbalzadeh Kaveh , Schlachtenberger Georg , Rustenbach Christian , Sabashnikov Anton , Kuhn-Régnier Ferdinand , Mader Navid , Wahlers Thorsten
Published: March 2021

Background:

Gender is known to influence the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of the coronary vascular disease. Data on gender-related differences in patients with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation due to postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock is lacking in current literature. We aimed to analyze the impact of gender on intraoperative and short-term outcomes of vaECMO patients after coronary surgery and postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock.

Methods:

Between 2006 and 2017, a total of 92 patients with PCS after CABG underwent vaECMO-implantation at our institution. After a 1:1 propensity score match (PSM) for relevant preoperative data, we identified a cohort of 32 patients, 16 males, and 16 females. Periprocedural and short-term outcome data were analyzed with respect to sex differences.

Results:

The mean age was 64 ± 11 years, and 79% ( n = 73) were male patients. Clinical outcomes showed a 30-day all-cause mortality of 64% ( n = 59). After PSM, male patients showed a significantly smaller number of arterial grafts (0.4 ± 0.53 male vs 1.1 ± 0.7 female; p = 0.037). Thirty-day all-cause mortality did not differ between the groups (56% male vs 75% female; p = 0.262). In general, short-term outcome data were comparable without significant differences for the matched groups.

Conclusion:

Gender has no impact on patients with vaECMO therapy due to PCS in isolated coronary surgery.
Caregiver-guided pain coping skills training for patients with advanced cancer: Results from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Porter Laura S , Steel Jennifer L , Fairclough Diane L , LeBlanc Thomas W , Bull Janet , Hanson Laura C , Fischer Stacy , Keefe Francis J
Published: March 2021

Background:

Pain is a major concern among patients with advanced cancer and their family caregivers. Evidence suggests that pain coping skills training interventions can improve outcomes, however they have rarely been tested in this population.

Aim:

To test the efficacy of a caregiver-guided pain coping skills training intervention. The primary outcome was caregiver self-efficacy for helping the patient manage pain.

Design:

A randomized controlled trial compared the intervention to an enhanced treatment-as-usual control. Dyads in both conditions received pain education, and those in the intervention received three sessions of pain coping skills training. Caregiver outcomes (self-efficacy; caregiver strain, caregiving satisfaction, psychological distress) and patient outcomes (self-efficacy, pain intensity and interference, psychological distress) were collected at baseline and post-intervention.

Setting/participants:

Two hundred two patients with stage III–IV cancer and pain and their family caregivers were enrolled from four outpatient oncology clinics and a free-standing hospice/palliative care organization.

Results:

Compared to those in the control arm, caregivers in the intervention reported significant increases in caregiving satisfaction ( p < 0.01) and decreased anxiety ( p = 0.04). In both conditions, caregivers reported improvements in self-efficacy, and patients reported improvements in self-efficacy, pain severity and interference, and psychological distress.

Conclusions:

This is the first study to test a pain coping skills intervention targeted to patients and caregivers facing advanced cancer. Findings suggest that pain education provides benefits for patients and caregivers, and coping skills training may be beneficial for caregivers. Further research is needed to optimize the benefits of education and pain coping skills training for improving cancer pain outcomes. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02430467, Caregiver-Guided Pain Management Training in Palliative Care
Missing the human connection: A rapid appraisal of healthcare workers’ perceptions and experiences of providing palliative care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mitchinson Lucy , Dowrick Anna , Buck Caroline , Hoernke Katarina , Martin Sam , Vanderslott Samantha , Robinson Hannah , Rankl Felicia , Manby Louisa , Lewis-Jackson Sasha , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia
Published: March 2021

Background:

During infectious epidemics, healthcare workers are required to deliver traditional care while facing new pressures. Time and resource restrictions, a focus on saving lives and new safety measures can lead to traditional aspects of care delivery being neglected.

Aim:

Identify barriers to delivering end-of-life care, describe attempts to deliver care during the COVID-19 pandemic, and understand the impact this had on staff.

Design:

A rapid appraisal was conducted incorporating a rapid review of policies from the United Kingdom, semi-structured telephone interviews with healthcare workers, and a review of mass print media news stories and social media posts describing healthcare worker’s experiences of delivering care during the pandemic. Data were coded and analysed using framework analysis.

Setting/Participants:

From a larger ongoing study, 22 interviews which mentioned death or caring for patients at end-of-life, eight government and National Health Service policies affecting end-of-life care delivery, eight international news media stories and 3440 publicly available social media posts were identified. The social media analysis centred around 274 original tweets with the highest reach, engagement and relevance. Incorporating multiple workstreams provided a broad perspective of end-of-life care during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom.

Results:

Three themes were developed: (1) restrictions to traditional care, (2) striving for new forms of care and (3) establishing identity and resilience.

Conclusions:

The COVID-19 pandemic prohibited the delivery of traditional care as practical barriers restricted human connections. Staff prioritised communication and comfort orientated tasks to re-establish compassion at end-of-life and displayed resilience by adjusting their goals.
Clinical validation of ratings on the six-item Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale obtained via the Simplified Negative and Positive Symptoms Interview
Authors: Kølbæk Pernille , Dines David , Holm Tine , Blicher Anne B , Sørensen Rune D , O’Leary Kathrine M , Feller Sandra G , Buus Chanette W , Nielsen Cecilie M , Opler Mark , Mors Ole , Correll Christoph U , Østergaard Søren D
Published: March 2021

Background:

The six-item version of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS-6) has shown promise as a brief measure of the severity of core symptoms of schizophrenia. However, since all prior analyses of the PANSS-6 were based on data extracted from studies using the full 30-item PANSS (PANSS-30), it remains unknown whether it is possible to obtain valid information for the PANSS-6 ratings via a brief interview, such as the Simplified Negative and Positive Symptoms Interview (SNAPSI).

Aims:

We aimed to validate the PANSS-6 ratings obtained via the SNAPSI using the PANSS-6 scores extracted from the PANSS-30 ratings obtained via the comprehensive Structured Clinical Interview for PANSS (SCI-PANSS) as the gold-standard reference.

Methods:

The PANSS-6 ratings based on the SNAPSI and the PANSS-30 ratings based on the SCI-PANSS were conducted by independent raters with established inter-rater reliability.

Results:

Seventy-seven inpatients with schizophrenia ( Mage = 35.1 ± 11.7 years; males = 57%; paranoid schizophrenia = 75%) participated in the study. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of the PANSS-6 total scores obtained using the SNAPSI and the PANSS-30-derived PANSS-6 total scores via the SCI-PANSS was 0.77 ( p < 0.001). The ICC for the PANSS-6 total score and the PANSS-30-derived PANSS-8 (Andreasen’s remission criteria) was 0.75 ( p < 0.001). Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient for changes in PANSS-6 total scores via the SNAPSI and changes in PANSS-30-derived PANSS-6 total scores was 0.70 ( p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Using the SNAPSI to rate the PANSS-6 enables a focused and brief assessment of the severity of core symptoms of schizophrenia, which facilitates measurement-based care and clinical decision making in the treatment of schizophrenia.
More than motor impairment: A spatiotemporal analysis of cognitive impairment and associated neuropathological changes following cortical photothrombotic stroke
Authors: Sanchez-Bezanilla Sonia , Hood Rebecca J , Collins-Praino Lyndsey E , Turner Renée J , Walker Frederick R , Nilsson Michael , Ong Lin Kooi
Published: March 2021

There is emerging evidence suggesting that a cortical stroke can cause delayed and remote hippocampal dysregulation, leading to cognitive impairment. In this study, we aimed to investigate motor and cognitive outcomes after experimental stroke, and their association with secondary neurodegenerative processes. Specifically, we used a photothrombotic stroke model targeting the motor and somatosensory cortices of mice. Motor function was assessed using the cylinder and grid walk tasks. Changes in cognition were assessed using a mouse touchscreen platform. Neuronal loss, gliosis and amyloid-β accumulation were investigated in the peri-infarct and ipsilateral hippocampal regions at 7, 28 and 84 days post-stroke. Our findings showed persistent impairment in cognitive function post-stroke, whilst there was a modest spontaneous motor recovery over the investigated period of 84 days. In the peri-infarct region, we detected a reduction in neuronal loss and decreased neuroinflammation over time post-stroke, which potentially explains the spontaneous motor recovery. Conversely, we observed persistent neuronal loss together with concomitant increased neuroinflammation and amyloid-β accumulation in the hippocampus, which likely accounts for the persistent cognitive dysfunction. Our findings indicate that cortical stroke induces secondary neurodegenerative processes in the hippocampus, a region remote from the primary infarct, potentially contributing to the progression of post-stroke cognitive impairment.
Value of energy spectrum CT parameters in the differential diagnosis of high-grade clear cell renal cell carcinoma and type II papillary renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Liang Xiaohong , Xue Caiqiang , Huang Xiaoyu , Wei Jinyan , Zhou Junlin
Published: March 2021

Background

Energy spectrum computed tomography (CT) has become a promising approach for the differential diagnosis of tumor subtypes.

Purpose

To explore the value of energy spectrum CT parameters in the differential diagnosis of high-grade clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and type II papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC).

Material and Methods

Forty-two cases of high-grade ccRCC and 28 cases of type II pRCC were retrospectively reviewed. All region of interest (ROI) measurements were maintained consistently between the two-phase contrast-enhanced examinations. The ROIs encompassed as much of the enhancing areas of the lesions as possible. Energy spectrum CT parameters of all cases, including the 70 keV (HU) value, normalized iodine concentration (NIC), and energy spectrum curve slope were recorded by two radiologists with over 10 years of experience in abdominal CT diagnosis.

Results

In the cortical phase (CP) and parenchymal phase (PP), the 70 keV (HU) value, NIC, and slope value of the energy spectrum curve of high-grade ccRCC were significantly higher than those of type II pRCC. In the CP, NIC showed the highest differential diagnosis efficiency for the two group tumors, with a sensitivity of 78.9% and a specificity of 77.0%. There was no statistical difference in tumor hemorrhage, tumor envelope, tumor morphology, tumor border, lymph node metastasis, embolism, renal pelvis invasion, or tumor calcification between the two tumor types. However, there was significant difference in the number of tumors ( P = 0.019).

Conclusion

Energy spectrum CT parameters are valuable for the differential diagnosis of high-grade ccRCC and type II pRCC.
Gunshot wounds to the head: a comparison of postmortem magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and autopsy
Authors: Ursprung Reto , Eggert Sebastian , Ampanozi Garyfalia , Gascho Dominic , Thali Michael , Franckenberg Sabine
Published: March 2021

Background

Postmortem imaging has become a powerful diagnostic tool in forensics. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is often used currently to complement and sometimes even replace an autopsy.

Purpose

To compare PMCT, postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (PMMRI), and autopsy findings for gunshot wounds to the head.

Material and Methods

Cross-sectional study. We performed a retrospective analysis of 24 cases with gunshot wounds to the head that underwent both PMCT and PMMRI between 2011 and 2018 at the Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich (Switzerland).

Results

Our study confirms that PMCT and, to a slightly lesser degree, PMMRI provide additional information that is valuable when combined with autopsy findings. Air embolism was solely detected in PMCT (67% vs. 0% at autopsy). A retained bullet or projectile and bone fragments were diagnosed more frequently with PMCT (42%, 67%, and 92%) than at autopsy (33%, 42%, and 46%). Soft tissue lesions were more often detected with PMMRI than with PMCT. With regard to autopsy, subdural hemorrhage and ventricular hemorrhage were slightly more frequently diagnosed with PMMRI (63% and 75% vs. 38% and 58% at autopsy). Intracerebral hemorrhage was by far most often diagnosed with PMMRI (92%) compared with both PMCT (38%) and autopsy (14%).

Conclusion

All three modalities should ideally be considered in cases of craniocerebral gunshot wounds. However, it might be conceivable that depending on the forensic query, PMCT and PMMRI may be an adequate replacement for an autopsy.
The effect of mental practice on music memorization
Authors: Iorio Claudia , Brattico Elvira , Munk Larsen Frederik , Vuust Peter , Bonetti Leonardo
Published: March 2021

Mental practice (MP) in music refers to the ability to rehearse music in the mind without any muscular movements or acoustic feedback. While previous studies have shown effects of the combination of MP and physical practice (PP) on instrumental performance, here we aimed to assess MP and PP effects on memory abilities. During a 1-week music practice protocol, classical guitarists were asked to practise a new musical piece using either a combination of MP and PP or PP alone. We asked participants to perform the piece and notate it at 3 different times: Day 1 and Day 7 of the 1-week practice protocol and 10 days after its completion (follow-up session). Results showed that the combination of MP and PP improves both notation and performance tasks compared with PP alone. Furthermore, we observed a clearer difference in memory performance in the follow-up session as compared with that in Day 7. Our results show that musicians can use both MP and PP to improve long-term retention and to reduce physical workload and playing-related overuse injuries. Therefore, we encourage music educators to teach MP in the classrooms rather than letting students discover it in a serendipitous way.
Aerodynamic and aeroacoustic performance investigations on modified H-rotor Darrieus wind turbine
Authors: Dessoky Amgad , Lutz Thorsten , Krämer Ewald
Published: March 2021

The present paper investigates the aerodynamic and aeroacoustic characteristics of the H-rotor Darrieus vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) combined with very promising energy conversion and steering technology; a fixed guide-vanes. The main scope of the current work is to enhance the aerodynamic performance and assess the noise production accomplished with such enhancement. The studies are carried out in two phases; the first phase is a parametric 2D CFD simulation employing the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) approach to optimize the design parameters of the guide-vanes. The second phase is a 3D CFD simulation of the full turbine using a higher-order numerical scheme and a hybrid RANS/LES (DDES) method. The guide-vanes show a superior power augmentation, about 42% increase in the power coefficient at λ = 2.75, with a slightly noisy operation and completely change the signal directivity. A remarkable difference in power coefficient is observed between 2D and 3D models at the high-speed ratios stems from the 3D effect. As a result, a 3D simulation of the capped Darrieus turbine is carried out, and then a noise assessment of such configuration is assessed. The results show a 20% increase in power coefficient by using the cap, without significant change in the noise signal.
The Motherhood Experiences of Non-Birth Mothers in Same-Sex Parent Families
Authors: McInerney Anna , Creaner Mary , Nixon Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

In this qualitative study, we explored the experiences of non-birth mothers whose child(ren) were planned and conceived within their same-sex relationship. We conducted semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with 14 participants in Ireland. We transcribed the interviews verbatim and analyzed the data using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Our findings comprised three superordinate themes: A Question of Recognition, An Insecure Connection, and Carving Your Own Way and related subordinate themes. Motherhood experiences were characterized by resilience and vulnerability in parenting their children without legal parental rights and within a heteronormative society that privileged biological motherhood. The dynamic relationship between seeking connection and seeking legitimacy that is at the heart of the participants’ experiences of motherhood is highlighted. Participants encountered challenges to their maternal legitimacy within their families and communities and in their interactions with legal and social institutions. Participants described using various strategies to reinforce their parental identity. Despite the challenges, participants were engaged in constructing satisfying parenting roles. The findings highlight the importance of legitimizing the parental identity of non-birth mothers. Therapists should be sensitive to the additional marginalization of non-birth mothers in same-sex parent families. Validating their vulnerability and their resilience in the face of obstacles may enhance their coping resources. Online slides for instructors who want to use this article for teaching are available on PWQ’s website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/03616843211003072
Midterm Outcomes of Posterior Medial Meniscus Root Tear Repair: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chang Peter S. , Radtke Logan , Ward Patrick , Brophy Robert H.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Whereas there has been growing interest in surgical repair of posterior medial meniscus root tears (PMMRTs), our understanding of the medium- and long-term results of this procedure is still evolving.

Purpose:

To report midterm clinical outcomes from PMMRT repairs.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

A literature review for this systematic analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We identified studies that reported the results of arthroscopic repair of PMMRTs. Functional and imaging outcomes were reviewed and summarized.

Results:

In total, 28 studies with a total of 994 patients (83% female) with an overall mean age of 57.1 were included in this review. Clinical outcomes (Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee, Hospital for Special Surgery, and Tegner scores) were improved at final follow-up in all studies. Of patients, 49% had radiographic progression of at least 1 grade in the Kellgren-Lawrence scale at a mean follow-up of 4.0 years in 11 studies. Cartilage degeneration had progressed at least 1 grade on magnetic resonance imaging scans in 23% of patients at a mean follow-up of 31.6 months in 4 studies.

Conclusion:

PMMRT repairs provide a functional benefit with consistent improvements in clinical outcome scores. There is some evidence that PMMRT repair slows the progression of osteoarthritis but does not prevent it at midterm follow-up.
Application of failure mode and effects analysis to reduce microplastic emissions
Authors: Pires Ana , Sobral Paula
Published: March 2021

A complete understanding of the occurrence of microplastics and the methods to eliminate their sources is an urgent necessity to minimize the pollution caused by microplastics. The use of plastics in any form releases microplastics to the environment. Existing policy instruments are insufficient to address microplastics pollution and regulatory measures have focussed only on the microbeads and single-use plastics. Fees on the use of plastic products may possibly reduce their usage, but effective management of plastic products at their end-of-life is lacking. Therefore, in this study, the microplastic–failure mode and effect analysis (MP–FMEA) methodology, which is a semi-qualitative approach capable of identifying the causes and proposing solutions for the issue of microplastics pollution, has been proposed. The innovative feature of MP–FMEA is that it has a pre-defined failure mode, that is, the release of microplastics to air, water and soil (depending on the process) or the occurrence of microplastics in the final product. Moreover, a theoretical recycling plant case study was used to demonstrate the advantages and disadvantages of this method. The results revealed that MP–FMEA is an easy and heuristic technique to understand the failure-effect-causes and solutions for reduction of microplastics and can be applied by researchers working in different domains apart from those relating to microplastics. Future studies can include the evaluation of the use of MP–FMEA methodology along with quantitative methods for effective reduction in the release of microplastics.
Neo-Fashion: A Data-Driven Fashion Trend Forecasting System Using Catwalk Analysis
Authors: Zhao Li , Li Muzhen , Sun Peng
Published: March 2021

Trend forecasting is a challenging and important aspect of the fashion industry. The authors design a novel fashion trend analysis system called “Neo-Fashion,” which provides recommendations to fashion researchers and practitioners about potential fashion trends using computer vision and machine learning. Neo-Fashion includes three modules, a data collection and labeling module, an instance segmentation module and a trend analysis module. Diffusion of innovation theory is used as the main theoretical framework to understand fashion trends. 32,702 catwalk images from 2019 fashion week were collected, and 769 images were labeled as training data. Neo-fashion is able to identify and segment fashion items in the given images, and indicate the fashion trends in colors, styles, clothing combinations, and other fashion attributes. To optimize the system, more data sources can be included to not only reflect trends in even more categories but also aid in understanding the trickle-up or trickle-across process in fashion.
Loperamide Induced Recurrent Torsades de Pointes: A Case Report
Authors: Jackson Gregory G. , Lopez Christine R. , Bermudez Elizabeth S. , Hill Nina E. , Roden Dan M. , Ely E. Wesley , Stollings Joanna L.
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

A case of loperamide-induced recurrent torsades de pointes is reported to raise awareness of an increasingly common phenomenon that could be encountered by medical providers during the current opioid epidemic.

A 40 year-old-man with a prior history of opioid abuse who presented to the emergency department after taking up to 100 tablets of loperamide 2 mg daily for 5 years to blunt opioid withdrawal symptoms and was subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit for altered mental status and hyperthermia. The patient had prolonged QTc and 2 episodes of torsades de pointes (TdP) that resulted in cardiac arrest with return of spontaneous circulation. He was managed with isoproterenol, overdrive pacing, and methylnatrexone with no other events of TdP or cardiac arrest.

Conclusion:

A 40-year-old male who developed torsades de pointes from loperamide overdose effectively treated with overdrive pacing, isoproterenol, and methylnatrexone.
The Utility of Solution-Oriented Strategies to Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Authors: Montoro-Rodriguez Julian , Hayslip Bert , Ramsey Jennifer , Jooste Jane L.
Published: March 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this article is to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychosocial intervention program to improve the health and social psychological outcomes for grandparents raising grandchildren using the theory of Selection, Optimization, and Compensation (Baltes, P. B., & Baltes, M. M. (1990). Psychological perspectives on successful aging: The model of selective optimization with compensation. In P. B. Baltes & M. M. Baltes (Eds.), Successful aging: Perspectives from the behavioral sciences (pp. 1-34). Cambridge University Press. doi:10.1017/CBO9780511665684.003). Methods: Fifty-two grandparents were randomly assigned either to a 6-session solution-oriented goal-setting program or to a waiting list control condition who subsequently received the intervention. Results: Grandparents in the intervention group, in comparison to the waiting list control group, reduced their level of depression, improved their parental efficacy, overall psychosocial adjustment, and increased their ability to choose effective goals. For the most part, findings were replicated in the waiting list control analyses. Discussion: While these findings are consistent with previous studies using psychosocial interventions with parents and grandparent caregivers, they also provide support for strength-based proactive behavioral approaches to improve the quality of life of grandparent caregivers.