bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in perceived barriers of aspiring superintendents
Authors: Cassidy Maureen , Burgin Ximena D , Wasonga Teresa A
Published: January 2021

Discrepancies in the number of females occupying superintendent positions in the United States continue to exist; therefore, this study utilized a survey design to examine the perceived barriers to achieving the top positions in education as well as differences by gender among aspiring superintendents in K-12 in Illinois. Statistical analyses (Mann-Whitney U test and factor analysis) were performed on the results from the Aspiring Superintendents Perceived Barriers Questionnaire developed by Dulac, and its underlying constructs were used to investigate the extent to which aspiring female and male administrators perceived barriers to the superintendency position. Eighty-four participants completed the survey either online or on paper. The study found significant differences between male and female aspiring superintendents in 10 of the 21 perceived barriers. Factor analysis yielded two factors (societal issues and workplace expectations) as barriers identified by females, and three concepts (societal issues, workplace expectations, and masculinity in leadership) as barriers identified by males.
Social Media Influencers in CSR Endorsement: The Effect of Consumer Mimicry on CSR Behaviors and Consumer Relationships
Authors: Cheng Yang , Chen Yi-Ru Regina , Hung-Baesecke Chun-Ju Flora
Published: January 2021

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a global norm for organizations to observe. In today’s shifting media landscape, social media influencers (SMIs) have become central actors in social-mediated CSR communication, connecting organizations and stakeholders by endorsing organizational CSR initiatives through self-generated messages. This study aimed to investigate how SMIs succeeded in creating positive behavioral and relational outcomes among consumers through the use of social media in the context of CSR communication. Data from a survey of 592 participants in the United States indicated that SMIs’ trustworthiness, expertise, uniqueness, and originality contributed to creating a desire in target consumers to emulate the SMIs who had endorsed a CSR initiative on Twitter. Consumers’ desire to do so drove their engagement in the CSR initiative directly, and indirectly did so through attribution of an altruistic motivation to the CSR initiative. Moreover, the target consumers’ CSR engagement and altruistic attribution further fostered their relationships with the corporation performing the CSR initiative. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
The importance of pregnancy planning in lupus pregnancies
Authors: Rajendran Aardra , Eudy Amanda M , Balevic Stephen J , Clowse Megan E B
Published: January 2021

Objective

In seeking new approaches to improve lupus pregnancy outcomes, we study the association between pregnancy planning, behaviors recommended by American College of Rheumatology’s Reproductive Health Guideline 2020, and pregnancy and infant outcomes.

Methods

Lupus pregnancies in a prospective registry (1/1/2018 to 4/1/2020) were classified as planned or not-planned using the patient-reported London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy. These groups were compared for demographics, pre-pregnancy disease activity, pregnancy planning behaviors, and delivery outcomes.

Results

Among 43 women with 43 singleton pregnancies the average age was 29.4 years and 42% were Black. Overall, 60% were planned pregnancies and 40% were not-planned (16 ambivalent, 1 unplanned). Women with not-planned pregnancies had lower age, income, and education, and more required Medicaid. Women with not-planned pregnancies were more likely to conceive when lupus activity was higher (p = 0.001), less likely to receive pre-pregnancy counseling with a rheumatologist (p = 0.02), and less likely to continue pregnancy-compatible medications (p = 0.03). Severe PROMISSE adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) and severe neonatal outcomes were higher among women with not-planned than planned pregnancies (43% vs 0% p = 0.003; 70% vs 30% p = 0.06).

Conclusion

This study identifies pregnancy intention as a potentially modifiable risk factor for poor outcomes in women with lupus. It highlights a unique population of women with lupus at high risk for pregnancy and infant complications: those ambivalent about pregnancy. These women may not be effectively engaging in health behaviors that prevent pregnancy nor those that will prepare for a safe pregnancy. With effective pregnancy planning and contraception guidance, we may decrease their risk for maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality.
Self-perceived quality of life of primary antiphospholipid syndrome patients using vitamin K antagonist
Authors: de Oliveira Vaz Camila , de Moraes Mazetto Fonseca Bruna , Nascimento Silva Vasconcelos Pedro Eduardo , Brito Bastos Larissa , Cursino Maria Aparecida , Coelho França Quintanilha Júlia , Tripiquia Vechiatto Mesquita Gabriela Lisiane , Rosa dos Santos Ana Paula , Cardoso Jacintho Bruna , Oliveira José Diogo , Annichino-Bizzachi Joyce , Andrade Orsi Fernanda
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder clinically characterized by thromboembolic events or obstetric complications. Prolonged anticoagulation therapy with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) is the treatment of choice for PAPS patients with thrombosis. However, the efficacy of VKA therapy depends on laboratory monitoring, dose adjustment, adequate lifestyle and adherence to treatment. Difficulties with VKA therapy can affect patients’ self-perceived health related quality of life (HRQOL). This study aims to evaluate PAPS patients' HRQOL, therapy adherence and knowledge of treatment.

Methods

A general Medical Outcome Study Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the Duke Anticoagulation Satisfaction Scale (DASS) were used to access APS-patients self-perceived HRQOL. Treatment adherence was measured by the Treatment Measure Adhesion (TMA) – oral anticoagulant version instrument, and knowledge of VKA treatment was measured using the MedTake test.

Results

66 PAPS patients using VKA were assessed. 63% of them were female; the mean age was 41.9 years old, approximately 60% had unprovoked venous thrombosis and one third of the patients had recurrent thrombotic events. The most impacted domain of DASS was “psychological impacts” and the factors associated to anticoagulation related poor HRQOL were: female sex, presence of arterial thrombosis and INR lability. Using the SF-36 instrument, PAPS-patients self-perceived HRQOL was poorer than that of the general Brazilian population and was associated with female sex and presence of cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusion

Despite the high adherence to treatment and knowledge of VKA therapy, self-perceived HRQOL is poor in patients with PAPS and is mainly affected by VKA therapy. Searching for better treatment options is warranted.
Naming is framing: The framing effect of technology name on public attitude toward automated vehicles
Authors: Liu Peng , Fei Qingqing , Liu Jinting , Wang Jianqiang
Published: January 2021

Vehicles with automated driving systems are called by many names, which are used interchangeably in public discourse, with different and at times misleading meanings. In two studies (total N = 908), we examined the naming effects on people’s cognitive (perceived benefit and risk), affective (negative and positive affect), and behavioral responses (behavioral intention) to and trust in these vehicles in the Chinese context. Study 1 considered four names (intelligent, automated, autonomous, and driverless vehicles). Study 2 presented an identical description of vehicles with full automation and considered their five names (fully intelligent, fully automated, fully autonomous, fully driverless, and driverless vehicles). We corroborated the naming effects on affective responses and trust. The framing of “driverless vehicle” was less favorable in Study 1 but more favorable in Study 2. Technology names indirectly influenced behavioral intention through certain cognitive and affective responses. Theoretical and practical implications of our results are discussed.
Caring for victims of child maltreatment: Pediatric nurses’ moral distress and burnout
Authors: Karakachian Angela , Colbert Alison , Hupp Diane , Berger Rachel
Published: January 2021

Background:

Moral distress is a significant concern for nurses as it can lead to burnout and intentions to leave the profession. Pediatric nurses encounter stressful and ethically challenging situations when they care for suspected victims of child maltreatment. Data on pediatric nurses’ moral distress are limited, as most research in this field has been done in adult inpatient and intensive care units.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to describe pediatric nurses’ moral distress and evaluate the impact of caring for suspected victims of child maltreatment on nurses’ moral distress, burnout, and intention to leave. Design and method: This descriptive cross-sectional correlational study was conducted in a mid-Atlantic, urban area Magnet pediatric level I trauma center that cares for over 1800 cases of suspected child maltreatment annually. An anonymous electronic survey was sent to all the nurses working at the hospital.

Ethical considerations:

Institutional Review Board approval was received from the first author’s university and the hospital where the study was conducted.

Findings:

Overall, nurses ( N = 146) reported low levels of moral distress with a mean score of 59.54 (SD = 49.22) and a range of 0–300 on the Moral Distress Scale Neonatal–Pediatric version. Although the frequency of caring for suspected child maltreatment victims did not affect nurses’ moral distress, caring for victims with fatal maltreatment contributed to nurses’ intention to leave, χ2 (1) = 5.35, p = 0.02.

Conclusion:

The results of this study add to the understanding of moral distress in pediatric nursing. Caring for victims with fatal maltreatment impacts pediatric nurses’ intention to leave.
Iatrogenic loneliness and loss of intimacy in residential care
Authors: Cook Catherine , Henrickson Mark , Atefi Nilo , Schouten Vanessa , Mcdonald Sandra
Published: January 2021

Background:

There is an international trend for frail older adults to move to residential care homes, rather than ageing at home. Residential facilities typically espouse a person-centred philosophy, yet evidence points to restrictive policies and surveillance resulting in increased loneliness and diminished opportunities for intimacy and sexual expression. Residents may experience what has been termed social death, rather than perceive they are related to by others as socially alive.

Aim:

To consider how the loss of intimacy and sexuality in residents’ lives contributes to iatrogenic loneliness experienced in residential care, and the importance of considering these issues together.

Research design:

The study utilised a constructionist methodology, investigating the meanings associated with intimacy, loneliness, and ageing.

Participants and research context:

Qualitative data used in this study are drawn from a larger dataset of a mixed-methods study. Interviews were completed as follows: staff, 21 individual interviews, and two groups with a total of 13 additional people; residents, 26 interviews with 28 people; and family members, 12 interviews with 13 people.

Findings:

Five key themes were identified in the data analysis: loneliness and relational identity, loneliness and functional relationships, loneliness and disrupted intimacy, loneliness and liminality, and loneliness and the built environment.

Ethical considerations:

The study was approved by a University Human Ethics Committee. Participation was voluntary. Consent was gained and confidentiality upheld.

Discussion:

Residents’ expression of intimacy and sexuality can be compromised through paternalism, ageism, restrictive policies, care-rationing and functional care, alienating residents from sustaining and developing significant relationships. Attitudes and cultural beliefs of staff and family members about ageing and intimacy, compounded by architectural design, may intensify loneliness.

Conclusions:

Nurses have a pivotal role in ensuring policies and practice enhance social citizenship.
Factors Associated With the Differences Between Self-Report Smoking and Urinary Cotinine Criteria
Authors: Lee Gyeong-Min , Yoon Jang-Ho , Lee Woo-Ri , Kim Li-Hyun , Yoo Ki-Bong
Published: January 2021

During self-reporting, respondents underreport their smoking status for various reasons. We aimed to evaluate the difference between smoking status self-reporting and urinary cotinine tests in Korea respondents. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the differences between self-reporting and urinary cotinine criteria. The dependent variable was the underreporting of smoking status; independent variables were sociodemographic, health status, and secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure. Total underreporting was 3.6% when Cot ≥164 and 4.0% when Cot-variable (classified) criteria underreported. Positive associations were found between smoking and age, education, drinking, and SHS. Underreporting in the nonsmoker group (odds ratio [OR] = 2.336; confidence interval [CI] = 1.717-3.179) was significantly associated with SHS, but this difference was nonsignificant in the ex-smoker group (OR = 1.184; CI = 0.879-1.638). Underreporting was 3.6% to 4.0%, and C-statistics was about 0.7, indicating that outcomes could be classified. SHS in nonsmokers was positively associated with underreporting; however, only the nonsmoker group had positive associations, demonstrating unintentional underreporting due to SHS.
Observational Research in Face-to-Face Small Groupwork: Capturing Affect as Socio-Dynamic Interpersonal Phenomena
Authors: Jones Cheryl , Volet Simone , Pino-Pasternak Deborah
Published: January 2021

Interpersonal affect in face-to-face small groupwork, though pervasive in university and work environments, is rarely examined as the fine-grained sequential interactions in which it manifests. This review synthesized 21 recent studies in tertiary collaborative learning and organizational research that have used observation methods to investigate affect in face-to-face small groupwork. The analysis focused on examining the extent to which observational studies captured affect as social (interactive) and dynamic (temporally unfolding). Findings showed that observational methods elicit information about affect dynamics in groupwork that is unique and complementary to other methods. Key affect constructs, behavioral operationalizations, and analytical tools used to capture affect are discussed.
Size effect analysis of quasi-brittle fracture with localizing gradient damage model
Authors: Zhang Yi , Shedbale Amit S. , Gan Yixiang , Moon Juhyuk , Poh Leong H.
Published: January 2021

The size effect of a quasi-brittle fracture is associated with the size of fracture process zone relative to the structural characteristic length. In numerical simulations using damage models, the nonlocal enhancement is commonly adopted to regularize the softening response. However, the conventional nonlocal enhancement, both integral and gradient approaches, induces a spurious spreading of damage zone. Since the evolution of fracture process zone cannot be captured well, the conventional nonlocal enhancement cannot predict the size effect phenomenon accurately. In this paper, the localizing gradient enhancement is adopted to avoid the spurious spreading of damage. Considering the three-point bend test of concrete beams, it is demonstrated that the dissipation profiles obtained with the localizing gradient enhancement compare well with those of reference meso-scale lattice models. With the correct damage evolution process, the localizing gradient enhancement is shown to capture the size effect phenomenon accurately for a series of geometrically similar concrete beams, using only a single set of material parameters.
PAX2 promoter methylation and AIB1 overexpression promote tamoxifen resistance in breast carcinoma patients
Authors: Jahangiri Rosa , Mosaffa Fatemeh , Emami Razavi Amirnader , Teimoori-Toolabi Ladan , Jamialahmadi Khadijeh
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Disease recurrence is an important obstacle in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) tamoxifen treated breast carcinoma patients. Tamoxifen resistance-related molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Alteration in DNA methylation which contributes to transcriptional regulation of cancer-related genes plays a crucial role in tamoxifen response. In the present study, the contribution of promoter methylation and mRNA expression of PAX2 and AIB1 in the development of breast carcinoma and tamoxifen refractory was assessed.

Methods

Methylation specific-high resolution melting (MS-HRM) analysis and Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) experiment were performed to analyze the promoter methylation and mRNA expression levels of PAX2 and AIB1 genes in 102 breast tumors and adjacent normal breast specimens.

Results

We indicated that PAX2 expression is decreased in breast tissues due to hypermethylation in its promoter region. Compared to the adjacent normal tissues, the tumors exhibited significantly lower relative mRNA levels of PAX2 and increased expression of AIB1. Aberrant promoter methylation of PAX2 and overexpression of AIB1 was observed in tamoxifen resistance patients compared to the sensitive ones. Cox regression analysis exhibited that the increased promoter methylation status of PAX2 and overexpression of AIB1 remained as unfavorable identifiers which influence patients' survival independently.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that the aberration in PAX2 promoter methylation and AIB1 overexpression are associated with the tamoxifen response in breast carcinoma patients. Further research is needed to demonstrate the potential of using PAX2 and AIB1 expression and their methylation-mediated regulation as predictive or prognostic biomarkers or as a new target therapy for better disease management.
A new model of bone remodeling and turnover set up in the framework of generalized continuum mechanics
Authors: Sansalone Vittorio , Martin Madge , Haïat Guillaume , Pivonka Peter , Lemaire Thibault
Published: January 2021

In the past few decades, numerous studies have attempted to address the various phenomena that take place simultaneously during bone remodeling. Drawing from Frost’s “mechanostat theory,” multiple phenomenological models of varying complexity have been developed to describe bone remodeling in terms of evolution of bone porosity, tissue properties, and mineralization. The main goal of this paper is to present the general theory of a novel macroscopic and comprehensive model of bone remodeling accounting for the interactions of mechanics and biochemistry at the microscale. Two independent remodeling mechanisms are considered: the rotation of the material axes and the turnover of bone material. The former mechanism is related to the change of orientation of bone microstructure. Bone turnover refers to the dynamic process of bone resorption by osteoclasts, formation of unmineralized bone by osteoblasts, and mineralization. The model is set up in the framework of generalized continuum mechanics. The evolution of bone tissue is thus described through its macroscopic deformation as well as macroscopic variables related to the orientation of bone microstructure and bone tissue composition (porosity, unmineralized and mineralized bone matrix). Thermodynamically consistent evolution laws of bone material are obtained by enforcing suitable statements of the virtual power principle and of the dissipation principle. Moreover, additional constitutive hypotheses are formulated to develop a phenomenological law of bone turnover. The turnover model is discussed on the basis of a number of numerical simulations. Although the model can capture the main features of bone turnover, it cannot describe satisfactorily the complexity of the underlying biological crosstalk, highlighting the need of a more refined mechanobiological constitutive theory of bone turnover.
Longitudinal Assessment of Relationships Between Health Behaviors and IL-6 in Overweight and Obese Pregnancy
Authors: Wallace McKenzie K. , Shivappa Nitin , Wirth Michael D. , Hébert James R. , Huston-Gordesky Larraine , Alvarado Fernanda , Mouzon Sylvie Hauguel-de , Catalano Patrick M.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Inflammation is a common factor in adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). Behavioral factors influence inflammatory markers and APOs but rarely have been investigated simultaneously in pregnancy. Our purpose was to determine how diet, physical activity, and obesity are associated with interleukin (IL)-6 in early and late pregnancy.

Methods:

We conducted a secondary analysis of 49 overweight/obese pregnant women. Health behavior data, including diet quality using the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII®); physical activity (Leisure Time Physical Activity scale); body mass index (BMI); and plasma IL-6 concentrations were collected at 13–16 weeks (early pregnancy) and 34–36 weeks (late pregnancy) gestation. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the amount of variance explained in early and late pregnancy IL-6 concentrations by early and late pregnancy diet, physical activity, and BMI.

Results:

Early diet and early BMI were the strongest predictors of early IL-6 concentrations (R2 = 0.43; p < .001) and late IL-6 concentrations (R2 = 0.30; p < .001). Late BMI predicted late IL-6 (R2 = .11; p = .02). Change in diet over pregnancy predicted late IL-6 (R2 = 0.17; p = .03).

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that maternal diet and BMI in early pregnancy, which likely reflects prepregnancy status, may have a greater impact on inflammatory processes than factors later in pregnancy. Future work should assess if behavioral factors before pregnancy produce similar relationships to those reported here, which may clarify the timing and type of lifestyle interventions to effectively reduce APOs.
Optical coherence tomography angiography findings of diabetic patients with and without retinopathy
Authors: Temel Emine , Batıoğlu Figen
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To emphasize the importance of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in the diagnosis and follow-up of diabetic individuals with and without retinopathy.

Methods:

Retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study of healthy persons and diabetic individuals with and without retinopathy. Area of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) (mm²), non-perfused areas in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP), mean vessel density (VD) in the SCP, and deep capillary plexus (DCP) were calculated. In eyes with diabetic retinopathy (DR), measurements at baseline, 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th months were evaluated.

Results:

This study conducted on 39 eyes of 23 patients with DR (group 1), 59 eyes of 30 diabetic individuals without DR (group 2), and 51 eyes of 27 healthy persons (group 3). When the mean area of the FAZ at baseline was compared between groups, the difference among groups 1 and 3 ( p < 0.001) and the difference among groups 2 and 3 ( p = 0.001) were statistically significant. There was no significant difference among the measurements of mean area of the FAZ, mean non-perfused area in the SCP, mean VD in SCP, and DCP at baseline, 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th months in group 1.

Conclusion:

OCTA is a developing technology that can detect early microvascular changes in diabetic patients.
Granulomatous uveitis and choroidal detachment in a patient after topical treatment with Bimatoprost: A case report
Authors: Massimo Lorusso , Micelli Ferrari Luisa , Nikolopoulou Gisotti Eleni , Zito Roberta , MicelliFerrari Tommaso , Anna Ferretta , Bordinone Marco Antonio
Published: January 2021

Background:

Bimatoprost 0.03% is an intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering prostaglandin analog with different adverse side effects such as potential ocular inflammatory effect and ocular hyperemia.

Case presentation:

We report a case of 80-year-old woman diagnosed with bilateral glaucomatous uveitis, and choroidal detachment in the left eye after topical bimatoprost administration. During the patient’s hospitalization, Bimatoprost treatment was discontinued and local steroid therapy was administrated. After 1 week we reported a marked improvement of visual acuity, IOP measurement was 12 mmHg in both eyes. Anterior segment examination showed complete resolution of conjunctival and pericheratic hyperemia with significant reduction of endothelial precipitates in both eyes.

Conclusions:

In our case, the anterior granulomatous uveitis occurred in both pseudophakic eyes and the choroidal detachment (CD) in the eye that previously had trabeculectomy. Probably the scar tissue of the trabeculectomy allowed a better penetration of the Bimatoprost or a greater sensitivity due to an altered trabecular tissue. This work confirms that the onset physiopathology mechanism of granulomatous uveitis and CD following instillation of Bimatoprost remains uncertain.
Outer nuclear layer relevance in visual function correlated to quantitative enface OCT parameters in Stargardt disease
Authors: Mucciolo Dario Pasquale , Lippera Myrta , Giorgio Dario , Sodi Andrea , Passerini Ilaria , Cipollini Francesca , Virgili Gianni , Giansanti Fabrizio , Murro Vittoria
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the correlation between Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) and the following parameters in Stargardt Disease (STGD): Central Retinal Thickness (CR-T), Central Outer Nuclear Layer Thickness (C-ONL-T), Areas of macular Photoreceptor loss (PHRa), and Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) loss (RPEa).

Methods:

A total of 64 eyes of 32 STGD patients were included in the study. All patients received a comprehensive ophthalmological examination, color fundus photographs, fundus auto-fluorescence imaging, and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). The CR-T and C-ONL-T were evaluated from standard SD-OCT scans. The PHRa and RPEa were calculated from enface OCT scans (sub RPE slab and photoreceptor slab). The collected OCT parameters were evaluated for possible association with BCVA.

Results:

The mean macular PHRa and RPEa was 16.16 ± 13.36 and 12.05 ± 12.57 mm2 respectively. The mean CR-T measured 120.78 ± 41.49 μm while the mean C-ONL-T was assessed at 4.60 ± 13.73 μm. BCVA showed the highest correlation with the C-ONL-T ( r = −0.72; p < 0.001) while there was no correlation with the CR-T ( r = −0.17; p = 1.00).

Conclusions:

Enface OCT permits a rapid and precise quantitative evaluation of the macular PHR and RPE atrophy area in STGD. Nonetheless, the OCT parameter that showed the highest correlation with visual acuity in STGD was the ONL thickness.
Long-term outcomes of half-fluence photodynamic therapy and eplerenone in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy: A comparative study
Authors: Manayath George , Verghese Shishir , Ranjan Ratnesh , Agrawal Hitesh , Khanna Amishi , Narendran Venkatapathy , Chhablani Jay
Published: January 2021

Aims:

To compare the long-term outcomes in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (cCSC) following half-fluence photodynamic therapy (HF-PDT) and oral eplerenone treatment.

Methods:

This retrospective comparative study included consecutive patients of cCSC treated with either HF-PDT or eplerenone. The treatment outcomes of the two groups were analyzed at 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month post-treatment.

Results:

This study included 20 eyes (20 patients) in HF-PDT group, and 18 eyes (18 patients) in eplerenone group. All baseline parameters in HF-PDT and eplerenone groups were comparable including neurosensory detachment height (217.05 ± 140.25 µm vs 178.05 ± 164.24 µm respectively, p = 0.09), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logMAR 0.24 ± 0.13 vs logMAR 0.46 ± 0.37 respectively, p = 0.1), and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) [427.4 ± 117.4 µm vs 456.38 ± 119.25 µm respectively, p = 0.45]. HF-PDT resulted in complete resolution of neurosensory detachment in higher proportion of eyes compared to eplerenone at each follow-up visits (3 months: 90% vs 27.7%, p = 0; 6 months: 100% vs 61.1%, p = 0.003; and 12 months: 100% vs 70%, p = 0.03) with a significantly shorter duration to resolution (3.3 ± 0.9 months vs 5.8 ± 3.3 months respectively, p = 0.02). Intergroup comparison showed no significant difference between mean BCVA ( p = 0.38 at 3 months, p = 0.14 at 6 months, and p = 0.19 at 12 months). Mean SFCT at 12 months of the two groups differed significantly ( p = 0.003) due to increased choroidal thickness of eplerenone group.

Conclusion:

HF-PDT has a superior efficacy to achieve faster, greater and long-lasting resolution of subretinal fluid in cCSC compared to eplerenone therapy.
An investigation of the elastic cylindrical line contact equations for plane strain and stress considering friction
Authors: Xu Kefei , Chu Nolan R. , Jackson Robert L.
Published: January 2021

This work presents a finite-element model-based study of elastic cylindrical contact. The aim is to evaluate the transition between the plane stress and plane strain-based Hertz solutions when each assumption is most applicable. To accomplish this, a range of curvatures, widths, Poisson’s ratios, and friction coefficients are considered. The finite-element model results for the elastic cylindrical contact cases are compared with the Hertz contact model when assuming plane stress or plane strain. Perhaps, surprisingly, the finite-element model predictions show little dependence on Poisson’s ratio and friction coefficient. The finite-element model predictions of force as a function of deflection agree relatively well with the plane stress Hertz prediction for all cases considered. The finite-element model predictions of contact width as a function of force actually fall below all the analytical Hertz predictions. Therefore, an adapted version of the Hertz equations is provided, which shows better agreement with the cases considered in this work.
The limits of gamification
Authors: González-González Carina S , Navarro-Adelantado Vicente
Published: January 2021

Gamification faces an epistemological problem of game transversality presenting limits from the playfulness. However, describing these limits is difficult if there is no interpretive model that explain the transition between the game and the gamification. This work proposes a systemic game–gamification model to understand the phenomenon of the gamification procedure. This structural-functionalist and systemic model can respond to different fields interested in gamification under the same elements and assume to serve as an interpretation only for this phenomenon’s social reality from the complexity. Some risks of gamification are highlighted, such as isolating and considering only some elements that do not even belong to the game, as is frequently the case with the competition system, an issue that, in analogy with game-sport, becomes sportification.
Analysis of antecedents and consequences of memorable tourist experiences (MTEs): A Spanish case study
Authors: Melón María Pilar Anía , Fandos-Herrera Carmina , Sarasa Raquel Gurrea
Published: January 2021

Competition in the tourism industry has intensified over the years and the process of searching for information when choosing a tourist destination has become more important. The most valuable information we have is what we remember: the memorable tourist experience (MTE). This study explores this concept by proposing a model that includes antecedents, such as destination image and tourist engagement, as well as consequences of the tourist experience, such as satisfaction, revisit intention and recommendation intention for the tourist destination. For this analysis, a self-administered online survey was conducted with clients of a Spanish hotel chain, resulting in a sample of 328 valid returned questionnaires. To carry out the analysis a structural equation model was developed. The results underline the importance of memory in the creation of memorable tourist experiences. Academic and management implications are proposed to complete the paper.
Benefits and Challenges of Using a Participatory Approach with Community-based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Interventions in Displaced Populations
Authors: Wood Benjamin , Kallestrup Per
Published: January 2021

The mental health burden of displaced communities is enormous and ever-increasing. Community-based Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (CB-MHPSS) interventions are seen as vital in addressing this challenge, and they have been lauded as being integral in the overall multi-level Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Intervention approach in humanitarian settings. This article assumes that CB-MHPSS innately require a participatory approach to truly benefit the targeted population. It explores important benefits and challenges of using a participatory approach with CB-MHPSS interventions, as well as identifying key considerations in their design and implementation. A literature review of the PubMed database, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews, and defined ‘grey literature’ identified 42 relevant articles. Thematic analysis identified dilemmas raised by many of the authors, including: the disconnect between using a participatory community-based approach and evidence-based medicine; using locally derived versus standardised measures; incorporating local mental health expressions and idioms into the intervention versus using standardised diagnostic classifications; empowering communities versus falling into the hands of local power dynamics and agendas; and trying to allow for sufficient time to develop relationships and build trust with the targeted community. The findings can serve to encourage reflexivity and critical thinking in the design and implementation of future CB-MHPSS interventions, which will be required to develop robust evidence that supports CB-MHPSS interventions in displaced communities.
Experimental and computational analysis of additively manufactured tensile specimens: Assessment of localized-cooling rate and ductile fracture using the Gurson– Tvergaard–Needleman damage model
Authors: Darabi Roya , Azinpour Erfan , Fiorentin Felipe K , Abarca Manuel J , Cesar de Sá Jose , Dzugan Jan
Published: January 2021

The present contribution addresses the micromechanical and thermal analysis of directed energy deposition-manufactured, stainless steel 316L components by utilizing experimental and numerical analyses. It has been established that a combination of controlling process parameters, manufacturing environment and microstructural anisotropies could adversely affect the quality of as-deposited parts. Among other factors, the shape, size, and distribution of the microvoids and porosities could, to some extent, have deteriorating effects on the mechanical properties of the additively manufactured components. In this work, the micromechanically motivated Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman damage model is utilized and the performance of the model is evaluated by observing the damage accumulation in the loaded additively manufactured specimens. By relying to the laboratory-based material data and fractographic imagery from nonstandard tensile testing on fabricated samples in different building directions, numerical model predictions are found to be in a good agreement with the experimental observations. Furthermore, by resorting to the finite element software capabilities, the thermal analyses are carried out on the manufactured cube component and the influence of the process parameters on the temperature distribution is revealed.
Role conceptions, performance, and the impact of credibility: Professionals’ and citizens’ views on citizen visual contributors
Authors: Chung Deborah S , Jeong Hyun Ju
Published: January 2021

Through two separate surveys targeting visual professionals (VP) and citizen visual contributors (CVC), we assess their views on citizen journalists’ roles along with their views on the likelihood to act on those views (i.e., role performance intention) in order to identify associations between perception and performance. The role that perceived media credibility plays in the assessment of role conceptions and potential role performance was also examined. Findings indicate that CVC rate their roles as significantly more important than the ratings of VP on citizens’ roles. Correlation analysis points to associations between the roles but misalignment in the relationship between conceptions and performance among CVC but alignment among VP. When looking at the impact of media credibility on role conceptions and performance, it is clear that perceived media credibility plays a significant role among the views of professionals. However, media credibility is not much of a factor in the assessments by CVC. Implications are discussed.
‘It’s the noise of the snacks!’: School meals on the fringes and frail food pedagogies
Authors: Oncini Filippo
Published: January 2021

Based on ethnographic fieldwork conducted during recess and lunch in a primary school sited in a deprived Palermitan neighbourhood, this paper sheds light on the (dis)functioning of food pedagogies in a school on the fringes of society. During recess, teachers use food rules to highlight transgressions, but not to improve food literacy. Likewise, their efforts during lunchtime are devoted solely to keeping children under control, while trying to get to the end of lunch as soon as possible. Ultimately, both eating occasions are seldom opportunities for food education, as teachers’ primary focus is on preventing or halting children’s restlessness and skirmishes. I conclude by outlining some limitations and strengths of the ethnography while reflecting on the findings vis-à-vis previous fieldwork I conducted in less challenging contexts.
Student perspectives on how different elements of constructive alignment support active learning
Authors: Hailikari Telle , Virtanen Viivi , Vesalainen Marjo , Postareff Liisa
Published: January 2021

Constructive alignment is often promoted as a principle to enhance the quality of learning but the student perspective has often been neglected when exploring its influence on student learning. There is therefore a need to further explore how students’ experiences of the different elements of constructive alignment influence the approach to learning they adopt. Student perceptions and their approaches to learning were analysed. The results show that different elements of constructive alignment had a clear role in guiding student learning. The teaching and assessment related factors appeared to play a crucial role in guiding student learning and studying. Teaching and assessment that required students’ active involvement clearly encouraged students to adopt a deep approach to learning whereas the opposite was true for more traditionally organised courses. The intended learning outcomes did not seem to influence student learning much. The results also imply that the key is to find an optimal level of challenge to support student learning and studying. The study deepens our understanding of the importance and influence of constructively aligned teaching to students’ learning processes.
Student Connections: The Critical Role of Student Affairs and Academic Support Services in Retention Efforts
Authors: Hoyt Jeff E.
Published: January 2021

The connections we establish in college are transformative and redirect our lives to make lasting impacts on others around us and in the world. Student affairs and academic support services can make the difference in whether students drop out, fail academically or succeed in their college and career aspirations and realize a personal vision for their future. This research examines the impact of these connections on student retention in college when controlling for common predictors, and reminds us that retention is a campus-wide effort, with student affairs and academic support services serving critical roles. The article also discusses how a large open-admissions university utilized these services to promote student success.
A tRNA Variant Translates Into Seizure Resistance
Authors: Weston Matthew C.
Published: January 2021

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The Woven Endobridge as a treatment for acutely ruptured aneurysms: A review of the literature
Authors: Crinnion William , Bhogal Pervinder , Makalanda Hegoda Levansri Dilrukshan , Wong Ken , Arthur Adam , Cognard Christophe , Henkes Hans , Fiorella Dave , Pierot Laurent
Published: January 2021

The Woven Endobridge (WEB; Microvention, Aliso Viejo, California, USA) is a relatively new device which has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of wide necked bifurcation aneurysms in multiple prospective Good Clinical Practice studies. However, the vast majority of aneurysms included in these studies have been unruptured. The aim of this review is to summarise the current evidence available on the treatment of ruptured aneurysms with the WEB.
Influence of the elastic and elastic-plastic material parameters on the mechanical properties of slewing bearings
Authors: He Peiyu , Wang Yun , Liu Hong , Guo Erkuo , Wang Hua
Published: January 2021

Slewing bearings are critical components of rotating equipment. Large structure sizes and heavy working load conditions require an extremely high load-bearing capacity and reliability. Overall and local contact finite element models of slewing bearings are verified by the empirical formula and Hertz contact theory. Validated finite element models are used to analyse the influence of the elastic material (E 1) and elastoplastic material parameters (EP 1, EP 2 and EP 3) on the load carrying capacity. The following conclusions are obtained by comparing the maximum contact load, the contact stress, the load distribution and the full-circle deformation. The influence of the material parameters on the slewing bearing is investigated to improve the analysis accuracy of the carrying capacity of the slewing bearings.
An MEWMA-based segmental multivariate hidden Markov model for degradation assessment and prediction
Authors: Li Yaping , Zio Enrico , Pan Ershun
Published: January 2021

Degradation is an unavoidable phenomenon in industrial systems. Hidden Markov models (HMMs) have been used for degradation modeling. In particular, segmental HMMs have been developed to model the explicit relationship between degradation signals and hidden states. However, existing segmental HMMs deal only with univariate cases, whereas in real systems, signals from various sensors are collected simultaneously, which makes it necessary to adapt the segmental HMMs to deal with multivariate processes. Also, to make full use of the information from the sensors, it is important to differentiate stable signals from deteriorating ones, but there is no good way for this, especially in multivariate processes. In this paper, the multivariate exponentially weighted moving average (MEWMA) control chart is employed to identify deteriorating multivariate signals. Specifically, the MEWMA statistic is used as a comprehensive indicator for differentiating multivariate observations. Likelihood Maximization is used to estimate the model parameters. To avoid underflow, the forward and backward probabilities are normalized. In order to assess degradation, joint probabilities are defined and derived. Further, the occurrence probability of each degradation state at the current time, as well as in the future, is derived. The Commercial Modular Aero-Propulsion System Simulation (C-MAPSS) dataset of NASA is employed for comparative analysis. In terms of degradation assessment and prediction, the proposed model performs very well in general. By sensitivity analysis, we show that in order to improve further the performance of the method, the weight of the chart should be set relatively small, whereas the method is not sensitive to the change of the in-control average run length (ARL).
A crossover study assessing the protective efficacy of improvised snorkel-based improvised respirators
Authors: Greig Paul R , Bradshaw James , Carvalho Clarissa , Iwaszko Luke , Ramessur Suniel , Schumacher Jan , El-Boghdadly Kariem
Published: January 2021

Introduction

This study was designed to determine whether improvised respirators based on modified full-face snorkel masks are able to pass a standard qualitative fit test.

Methods

This is a prospective crossover study conducted in 16 staff. Fit-tests were conducted on masks mated to (1) an anaesthetic breathing circuit heat and moisture exchange filter and (2) a CE-marked P3 grade filter. P3 filters were mounted using both epoxy-coated and uncoated adaptors.

Results

None of the tests using anaesthetic filters passed. Only one overall pass was observed using the P3-rated filter mated to the snorkel mask.

Conclusions

These data suggest that improvised PPE designs cannot provide reliable protection against aerosols. Failures are likely due to poor fit, but the suitability of 3D printed materials is also uncertain as fused-filament manufacturing yields parts that are not reliably gas-tight. Improvised PPE cannot be recommended as a substitute for purpose designed systems.
On the performance of polymer-inorganic perovskite oxide composite light-emitting diodes: The effect of perovskite SrTiO3 additives
Authors: Din Ummi Kalsom Noor , Salleh Muhamad Mat , Aziz Tengku Hasnan Tengku , Md Zain Ahmad Rifqi , Mohamed Mohd. Ambri , Umar Akrajas Ali
Published: January 2021

This study reports the performances of a single structured light-emitting diode (LED) devices based on polymer material poly(9,9-di- n-hexylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl) (PHF) mixed with various concentrations of perovskite oxide strontium titanate (SrTiO3) particles deposited as a composite PHF: SrTiO3 emitting layer. The performances of the single structured organic LED indium tin oxide (ITO)/PHF/aluminum (Al) device and the composite LED ITO/PHF: SrTiO3/Al devices were compared in terms of turn-on voltage and luminance intensity. By incorporating perovskite SrTiO3 particles into PHF emitting layer, the turn-on voltage of the device is significantly reduced from 11.25 V to 1.80 V and the luminance intensity increased from 57.7 cd/m2 to 609 cd/m2. The improvement of turn-on voltage and the electroluminescence spectrum of the composite devices were found to be dependent on the weight ratios of SrTiO3 content in the PHF emitting layer.
Study of the Physical Environment of Waiting Areas and Its Effects on Patient Satisfaction, Experience, Perceived Waiting Time, and Behavior in China
Authors: Xuan Xiaodong , Li Zongfei , Chen Xixi , Cao Yuan , Feng Zihao
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

This study examines the physical environment in the outpatient waiting area and its effects on overall satisfaction, experience, perceived waiting time, and behavior.

Background:

Waiting can be a frustrating experience for patients. Previous studies on waiting areas in hospitals have been rooted mainly in the Western cultural context, and research focusing on the impact of the physical environment on the waiting experience with the denser patient concentration in China is important.

Methods:

Physical environment measurements, observations, and questionnaire surveys were employed.

Results:

The actual lighting intensity and sound level did not meet the national standards. Sound level and satisfaction with the size of the waiting area, signage system, and visual art on the wall were significant predictors ( R 2 = .463, p = .000) for overall satisfaction. Experiences related to the size of the waiting area, seating, signage system, and restrooms were significant predictors ( R 2 = .373, p = .000) of overall waiting experience. The experience related to the acoustic environment (β = −.184, p = .006) had a significant relationship with perceived waiting time. The increase in participants’ behaviors of looking out of a window and the decrease in looking at other people, looking around, dozing, and looking at a wall might result from a substantial increase in lighting and the availability of a nature view from the window.

Conclusions:

The effect of the physical setting of waiting areas may positively impact patient satisfaction, waiting experience, perceived waiting time, and behavior, which has implications for patient-centered design.