bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast machine learning annotation in the medical domain: a semi-automated video annotation tool for gastroenterologists
Authors: Krenzer Adrian , Makowski Kevin , Hekalo Amar , Fitting Daniel , Troya Joel , Zoller Wolfram G. , Hann Alexander , Puppe Frank
Published: May 2022

Background

Machine learning, especially deep learning, is becoming more and more relevant in research and development in the medical domain. For all the supervised deep learning applications, data is the most critical factor in securing successful implementation and sustaining the progress of the machine learning model. Especially gastroenterological data, which often involves endoscopic videos, are cumbersome to annotate. Domain experts are needed to interpret and annotate the videos. To support those domain experts, we generated a framework. With this framework, instead of annotating every frame in the video sequence, experts are just performing key annotations at the beginning and the end of sequences with pathologies, e.g., visible polyps. Subsequently, non-expert annotators supported by machine learning add the missing annotations for the frames in-between.

Methods

In our framework, an expert reviews the video and annotates a few video frames to verify the object’s annotations for the non-expert. In a second step, a non-expert has visual confirmation of the given object and can annotate all following and preceding frames with AI assistance. After the expert has finished, relevant frames will be selected and passed on to an AI model. This information allows the AI model to detect and mark the desired object on all following and preceding frames with an annotation. Therefore, the non-expert can adjust and modify the AI predictions and export the results, which can then be used to train the AI model.

Results

Using this framework, we were able to reduce workload of domain experts on average by a factor of 20 on our data. This is primarily due to the structure of the framework, which is designed to minimize the workload of the domain expert. Pairing this framework with a state-of-the-art semi-automated AI model enhances the annotation speed further. Through a prospective study with 10 participants, we show that semi-automated annotation using our tool doubles the annotation speed of non-expert annotators compared to a well-known state-of-the-art annotation tool.

Conclusion

In summary, we introduce a framework for fast expert annotation for gastroenterologists, which reduces the workload of the domain expert considerably while maintaining a very high annotation quality. The framework incorporates a semi-automated annotation system utilizing trained object detection models. The software and framework are open-source.
Gut microbiota predicts body fat change following a low-energy diet: a PREVIEW intervention study
Authors: Jian Ching , Silvestre Marta Paulino , Middleton Danielle , Korpela Katri , Jalo Elli , Broderick David , de Vos Willem Meindert , Fogelholm Mikael , Taylor Mike William , Raben Anne , Poppitt Sally , Salonen Anne
Published: May 2022

Background

Low-energy diets (LEDs) comprise commercially formulated food products that provide between 800 and 1200 kcal/day (3.3–5 MJ/day) to aid body weight loss. Recent small-scale studies suggest that LEDs are associated with marked changes in the gut microbiota that may modify the effect of the LED on host metabolism and weight loss. We investigated how the gut microbiota changed during 8 weeks of total meal replacement LED and determined their associations with host response in a sub-analysis of 211 overweight adults with pre-diabetes participating in the large multicentre PREVIEW (PREVention of diabetes through lifestyle intervention and population studies In Europe and around the World) clinical trial.

Methods

Microbial community composition was analysed by Illumina sequencing of the hypervariable V3-V4 regions of the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. Butyrate production capacity was estimated by qPCR targeting the butyryl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase gene. Bioinformatics and statistical analyses, such as comparison of alpha and beta diversity measures, correlative and differential abundances analysis, were undertaken on the 16S rRNA gene sequences of 211 paired (pre- and post-LED) samples as well as their integration with the clinical, biomedical and dietary datasets for predictive modelling.

Results

The overall composition of the gut microbiota changed markedly and consistently from pre- to post-LED (P= 0.001), along with increased richness and diversity (bothP< 0.001). Following the intervention, the relative abundance of several genera previously associated with metabolic improvements (e.g.,AkkermansiaandChristensenellaceaeR-7 group) was significantly increased (P< 0.001), while flagellatedPseudobutyrivibrio, acetogenicBlautiaandBifidobacteriumspp. were decreased (allP< 0.001). Butyrate production capacity was reduced (P< 0.001). The changes in microbiota composition and predicted functions were significantly associated with body weight loss (P< 0.05). Baseline gut microbiota features were able to explain ~25% of variation in total body fat change (post–pre-LED).

Conclusions

The gut microbiota and individual taxa were significantly influenced by the LED intervention and correlated with changes in total body fat and body weight in individuals with overweight and pre-diabetes. Despite inter-individual variation, the baseline gut microbiota was a strong predictor of total body fat change during the energy restriction period.

Trial registration

The PREVIEW trial was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01777893) on January 29, 2013.
Squamous cell carcinoma of verrucous type in the setting of prior pyoderma gangrenosum: a case report
Authors: Morrison Amy , Waters-Hollingsworth Carlene , Gamboa G. Mabel
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Pyoderma gangrenosum and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma are two conditions well reported in the literature and may exist concurrently in the same patient. In fact, there have been reports of misdiagnosis of one for the other. The two conditions occurring in the same location, however, has not yet been reported.

Case description

We report the case of a 57-year-old Caucasian male with history of pyoderma gangrenosum of the right lateral tibial area who developed squamous cell carcinoma of verrucous type at the same site. Excisional surgery was considered to treat this patient, but he was ultimately managed with radiation therapy to the affected area due to the size of the lesion and the risk of triggering proliferation of the pyoderma gangrenosum.

Conclusions

We hope that this case report will add to the literature of both conditions, show a unique presentation of both conditions, and emphasize the inclusion of both pyoderma gangrenosum and squamous cell carcinoma when developing a differential diagnosis of a chronic, nonhealing wound.
Effects of Broussonetia papyrifera silage on rumen fermentation parameters and microbes of Holstein heifers
Authors: Wen Zhiying , Chen Yiye , Wu Longfei , Tian Hanchen , Zhu Ni , Guo Yongqing , Deng Ming , Liu Jianying , Sun Baoli
Published: May 2022

The structure and types of rumen microbes are closely related to host health. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Broussonetia papyrifera silage (BPS) gradually replacing the whole crop maize silage (WCMS) on total tract digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters, serum biochemical indicators, and rumen microbes of Holstein heifers. The diet treatment consisted of four proportions of BPS (0%, 25%, 50% and 75%) as substitute for WCMS (designated as T0, T25, T50 and T75, respectively). Twenty heifers (body weight = 245 ± 24 kg) were randomly divided into four groups of five heifers, and randomly received one diet. The feeding adaption period was 7 days, and the experiment period was 30 days. Our findings suggested that the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and crude protein increased linearly with the increased in BPS (P < 0.05). The concentrations of total protein and albumin increased quadratically with the increased in BPS (P < 0.05). The 16s high-throughput sequencing showed that feeding BPS did not change the diversity and structure of the rumen microbes of heifers. However, the relative abundances of Tenericutes and SR1–Absconditabacteria increased linearly with the increased in BPS (P < 0.05). The Weighted Correlation Network Analysis results suggested that ALT concentration was positively correlated with the abundance of Prevotella-1 (r = 0.73; P = 0.007). In general, Holstein heifers fed with BPS did not change the diversity and uniformity of rumen microbes, and enhanced the body protein metabolism.
Identification of prognostic alternative splicing signature in gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Zhiwu , Wu Qiong , Liu Yankun , Li Qingke , Li Jingwu
Published: May 2022

Background

Aberrant alternative splicing (AS) events could be viewed as prognostic indicators in a large number of malignancies. This study aims to identify prognostic AS events, illuminate the function of the splicing variants biomarkers and provide reliable evidence for formulating public health strategies for gastric cancer (GC) surveillance.

Methods

RNA-Seq data, clinical information and percent spliced in (PSI) values were available in The cancer genome atlas (TCGA) and TCGA SpliceSeq data portal. A three-step regression method was conducted to identify prognostic AS events and construct multi-AS-based signatures. The associations between prognostic AS events and splicing factors were also investigated.

Results

We identified a total of 1,318 survival-related AS events in GC, parent genes of which were implicated in numerous oncogenic pathways. The final prognostic signatures stratified by seven types of AS events or not stratified performed well in risk prediction for GC patients. Moreover, five signatures based on AA, AD, AT, ES and RI events function as independent prognostic indicators after multivariate adjustment of other clinical variables. Splicing network also showed marked correlation between the expression of splicing factors and PSI value of AS events in GC patients.

Conclusion

Our findings provide a landscape of AS events and regulatory network in GC, indicating that AS events might serve as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for GC.
Evaluating the retro-auricular incision versus reversed question mark incision and Kempe's 'T-bar' incision for decompressive hemicraniectomy
Authors: Eltabl Mohamed Ahmed , Ammar Ahmed Shawki , Saif Dalia Salah
Published: May 2022

Background

The proper decompression for hemicraniectomy depends on intraoperative surgical technique, so the skin incision, on the other hand, is an important variable throughout hemicraniectomy, and there are a variety of cutaneous incisions, including the Kempe T shaped, the reversed question mark and the retro-auricular incisions. We aim to compare those three types of incisions and assess their effects on the surgical outcomes regarding the skull defect size, survived beyond 1 week, post-operative complications and mortality rates.

Results

A retrospective study included 180 patients were separated into three age- and sex-matched groups according to the type of incision used for their hemicraniectomy. Data including age, sex, causes of surgery, comorbidities, the incision type, the defect area of the skull, intraoperative time and estimated blood loss were recruited for all patients. The mortality and morbidity rates at 3 months post-surgery were documented for all patients. There was a significant difference in the operative time, and the intraoperative measures of blood loss, and insignificant differences in the surviving rate after 1-week post-surgery among the three group patients. There were significant differences between the first and third patient groups compared to the second group regarding wound complications, while the first and third groups were comparable.

Conclusions

The retro-auricular incision is a safe preferable substitute for the reversed question mark and Kempe T-shaped incisions in decompressive hemicraniectomy, due to the better blood flow maintaining, lower rate of post-operative wound complications.
A bibliometric analysis of the cannabis and cannabinoid research literature
Authors: Ng Jeremy Y. , Chang Nathan
Published: May 2022

Background

Cannabis refers to a plant in the family Cannabaceae, which has been used medically, recreationally, and industrially. The last two decades, in particular, have seen a large increase in the volume of literature on this topic. The present bibliometric analysis aims to capture the characteristics of scholarly journal publications on the topic of cannabis and cannabinoid research.

Methods

Searches were run on the Scopus database on April 02, 2021, as follows “(TITLE (cannabi* OR hashish OR marijuana OR marihuana)) AND ( LIMIT-TO ( DOCTYPE,"ar" ) OR LIMIT-TO ( DOCTYPE,"re" ) )”. Results were exported on the same day to prevent discrepancies between daily database updates. Only “article” and “review” publication types were included; no further search limits were applied. The “article” publication type includes publications featuring original research, whereas “review” includes reviews and conference papers. The following data were collected: number of publications (in total and per year), authors, and journals; open access status; publications per journal; journals publishing the highest volume of literature and their impact factors, language of publication; document type; publication country; author affiliations; funding sponsors; most highly cited publications; and most highly published authors. Trends in this subset of publications were identified and presented. Bibliometric networks were constructed using the software tool VOSviewer.

Results

A total of 29 802 publications (10 214 open access), published by 65 109 authors, were published in 5474 journals from 1829 to 2021. The greatest number of publications was published over the last 20 years. The journal that published the largest number of publications was Drug and Alcohol Dependence (n= 705). The most productive countries included the USA (n= 12 420), the UK (n= 2236), and Canada (n= 2062); many of the most common institutional affiliations and funding sponsors originated from these countries.

Conclusions

The number of publications published on the topic of cannabis follows an upward trend. Over the past 20 years, the volume of cannabis research has grown steeply, which can be attributed to a large amount of funding dedicated to researching this topic. Future research should continue to investigate changes in the publication characteristics of emerging research, as the volume of publications on this topic is expected to rapidly grow.
2D magnetotelluric inversion using hybrid stabilizing functionals: Exponential minimum support and smoothness
Authors: Song Han , Yu Peng , Wang Cheng , Zhang Luolei , Zhao Chongjin , Shi Bo , Hu Ming
Published: May 2022

Except for producing smoothing models, magnetotelluric inversion also requires focused inversion, which can image sharp boundaries and clear interfaces of electrical structures. The proposed minimum support (MS) and minimum gradient support (MGS) have good focusing ability; however, their focusing effect is highly dependent on the selection of the focusing parameter. For finding a more stable way to achieve a well-focused image, we have developed an exponential minimum support (EMS) stabilizing functional, which combines the properties of the exponential stabilizer and MS, and determined the enhanced focusing ability and smaller dependence on the magnitude of the focusing parameter. Moreover, we construct a model constraint with the hybrid stabilizing functionals EMS and the smoothest (SM) and fulfill the optimization based on Occam’s inversion scheme. Through theoretical analysis and model tests, we determine the selection schemes of the regularization parameter, weighting parameter between EMS and SM, and focusing coefficient in EMS to ensure the stability and reliability of this method. Afterward, we perform the inversions of the synthetic and field data. By comparing the inversion results of the two synthetic wedge models using hybrid EMS and SM and those obtained using other stabilizers, we determine that the hybrid method is capable of imaging sharp boundaries and is stable for a wide range of focusing parameter values. The inversion result of the COPROD2 field data set clearly images the high-conductivity anomalies at depths of 10–60 km and also depicts the highly conductive features within the upper mantle at depths greater than 100 km. The model tests and field data application verify the stability and capability of this method. Thus, this novel regularization approach provides a tool for sharp boundary inversion and a new reference model for deep structural interpretation.
Prior Involvement of Central Motor Drive Does Not Impact Performance and Neuromuscular Fatigue in a Subsequent Endurance Task
Authors: LAGINESTRA FABIO GIUSEPPE , CAVICCHIA ALESSANDRO , VANEGAS-LOPEZ JENNIFER E. , BARBI CHIARA , MARTIGNON CAMILLA , GIURIATO GAIA , PEDRINOLLA ANNA , AMANN MARKUS , HUREAU THOMAS J. , VENTURELLI MASSIMO
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study evaluated whether central motor drive during fatiguing exercise plays a role in determining performance and the development of neuromuscular fatigue during a subsequent endurance task.

Methods

On separate days, 10 males completed three constant-load (80% peak power output), single-leg knee-extension trials to task failure in a randomized fashion. One trial was performed without preexisting quadriceps fatigue (CON), and two trials were performed with preexisting quadriceps fatigue induced either by voluntary (VOL; involving central motor drive) or electrically evoked (EVO; without central motor drive) quadriceps contractions (~20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)). Neuromuscular fatigue was assessed via pre–post changes in MVC, voluntary activation (VA), and quadriceps potentiated twitch force (Q
tw,pot). Cardiorespiratory responses and rating of perceived exertion were also collected throughout the sessions. The two prefatiguing protocols were matched for peripheral fatigue and stopped when Q
tw,pot declined by ~35%.

Results

Time to exhaustion was shorter in EVO (4.3 ± 1.3 min) and VOL (4.7 ± 1.5 min) compared with CON (10.8 ± 3.6 min, P < 0.01) with no difference between EVO and VOL. ΔMVC (EVO: −47% ± 8%, VOL: −45% ± 8%, CON: −53% ± 8%), ΔQ
tw,pot (EVO: −65% ± 7%, VOL: −59% ± 14%, CON: −64% ± 9%), and ΔVA (EVO: −9% ± 7%, VOL: −8% ± 5%, CON: −7% ± 5%) at the end of the dynamic task were not different between conditions (all P > 0.05). Compared with EVO (10.6 ± 1.7) and CON (6.8 ± 0.8), rating of perceived exertion was higher (P = 0.05) at the beginning of VOL (12.2 ± 1.0).

Conclusions

These results suggest that central motor drive involvement during prior exercise plays a negligible role on the subsequent endurance performance. Therefore, our findings indicate that peripheral fatigue–mediated impairments are the primary determinants of high-intensity single-leg endurance performance.
Factors contributing to under-reporting of patient safety incidents in Indonesia: leaders’ perspectives
Authors: Dhamanti Inge , Leggat Sandra , Barraclough Simon , Rachman Taufik
Published: May 2022

Background: Understanding the causes of patient safety incidents is essential for improving patient safety; therefore, reporting and analysis of these incidents is a key imperative. Despite its implemention more than 15 years ago, the institutionalization of incident reporting in Indonesian hospitals is far from satisfactory. The aim of this study was to analyze the factors responsible for under-reporting of patient safety incidents in Indonesian public hospitals from the perspectives of leaders of hospitals, government departments, and independent institutions.

Methods:

A qualitative research methodology was adopted for this study using semi-structured interviews of key informants. 25 participants working at nine organizations (government departments, independent institutions, and public hospitals) were interviewed. The interview transcripts were analyzed using a deductive analytic approach. Nvivo 10 was used to for data processing prior to thematic analysis.

Results:

The key factors contributing to the under-reporting of patient safety incidents were categorized as hospital related and nonhospital related (government or independent agency). The hospital-related factors were: lack of understanding, knowledge, and responsibility for reporting; lack of leadership and institutional culture of reporting incidents; perception of reporting as an additional burden. The nonhospital-related factors were: lack of feedback and training; lack of confidentiality mechanisms in the system; absence of policy safeguards to prevent any punitive measures against the reporting hospital; lack of leadership.

Conclusion:

Our study identified factors contributing to the under-reporting of patient safety incidents in Indonesia. The lack of government support and absence of political will to improve patient safety incident reporting appear to be the root causes of under-reporting. Our findings call for concerted efforts involving government, independent agencies, hospitals, and other stakeholders for instituting reforms in the patient safety incident reporting system.
Demographic and socioeconomic predictors of religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours in a prospective cohort study (ALSPAC) in Southwest England: Results from the parental generation
Authors: Major-Smith Daniel , Morgan Jimmy , Halstead Isaac , Tohidinik Hamid Reza , Iles-Caven Yasmin , Golding Jean , Northstone Kate
Published: May 2022

Background: We explored associations between possible demographic and socioeconomic causes of religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours (RSBB) in the parental generation of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).

Methods: We used a prospective birth cohort study (ALSPAC) in Southwest England with 14,157 enrolled mothers and 14,154 associated partners. Three RSBB outcome measures collected during pregnancy were examined: religious belief (belief in God/a divine power; yes/not sure/no), religious affiliation (Christian/none/other) and religious attendance (frequency of attendance at a place of worship). Multiple demographic and socioeconomic exposures were assessed (23 in mothers and 22 in partners). We explored age-adjusted associations between each exposure and outcome using multinomial regression, in addition to exposure-age interactions.

Results: Many demographic and socioeconomic factors were associated with RSBB outcomes, including age, ethnicity, marital status, education, income and deprivation. Overall, higher socioeconomic position was associated with increased levels of RSBB, particularly regarding religious attendance. For instance, compared to mothers with the lowest level of educational attainment, a degree-level education was associated with six-fold increase in the relative risk ratio of religious attendance at least once a week, relative to not attending at all (RRR=5.90; 95% CI=[4.44; 7.86]). The magnitude of these associations often varied by outcome, e.g., income was associated with religious attendance, but not religious affiliation. Although results were demographically and socially patterned, overall effect sizes were relatively small, with a largest pseudo-R2 value of 2.4%. Patterns of association were similar for both mothers and partners.

Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that numerous demographic and socioeconomic factors are associated with RSBB in this population. While additional work is needed to assess whether any of these associations are causal, this descriptive paper can help inform future studies using this data by considering appropriate confounders and thus attempt to minimise bias that confounding may introduce.
Weightness of girls aged 10-12 from the lubelskie and podlaskie voivodship in the years 2006-2016–2021
Authors: Wasiluk Agnieszka , Saczuk Jerzy
Published: May 2022

Introduction The nutritional status of children and adolescents is widely commented on. On the one hand. the number of people with excess body weight is growing. and on the other hand. the problem of malnutrition is becoming more and more visible. The aim of the study was to determine the fifteen-year changes in body height and BMI. including the frequency of underweight in girls living in towns and villages of the Lubelskie and Podlaskie voivodships. Material and methods For this study. the results of 7759 girls aged 10-12 were used. Information on the date of birth and the environmental conditions in which the respondents grew up was collected using the survey method. Body height and weight were measured. On their basis. BMI was calculated. In the groups of calendar age. the arithmetic means and standard deviation for body height and BMI were calculated at individual test dates. The statistical significance of differences between the teams was verified by the Anova analysis of variance and the Newmann-Keuls test. Results In the analyzed period. a significant increase in body height and BMI was found in girls. Higher values ​​of the secular trend of body height were found in female urban dwellers compared to rural girls. The percentage of underweight in 2006 and 2016 was similar for girls from different backgrounds. However. in 2021 it was higher for female residents of the village. Conclusion The obtained results indicate the necessity to conduct systematic studies to assess the nutritional status of adolescents.
The frequency of significant relationships of selected features describing feet with the torso features among youth aged 7-13
Authors: Mrozkowiak Mirosław
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Research on the relationships and co-occurrence of the feet and torso features in a group of 4-6-year-old children showed that the values of the left foot features show a significantly more frequent relationship with the features of the torso than the right foot features.

Material and method. The research was carried out in the group of adolescents aged 7 to 13 and registered 12,898 observations of the value of 90 features describing torso and feet. The working stand for measuring the features of body posture and feet using the photogrammetric method consists of a computer and a card, a programme, a monitor, a printer, and a projection-receiving device with a camera for measuring selected features.

Conclusions

A similar number of features of the right and left foot is often associated with the torso features. The following features like width of the feet, the angle of the 5thhallux valgus and the left foot big toe, the heel angle and height of the right foot second arch, the height of the second longitudinal arch and the length of the left foot, and the length of the first arch of the right foot show especially frequent relationships.

The feet features show the most frequent significant relationship with the torso features of the frontal plane, whereas less of sagittal plane and occasionally of transversal plane. Torso features, which the most common features of the feet are significantly related to are the height and length of lumbar lordosis, the height of thoracic kyphosis, the angle of the torso flexion in the sagittal plane, the length of the thoracic kyphosis, the bent angle of the thoracic-lumbar spine, the depth of thoracic kyphosis, the depth of lumbar lordosis, and the inclination angle of the upper thoracic segment of the spine. The features of the feet are whereby most frequently related to the features of lumbar lordosis.
Actuaciones urbanísticas autorizables en suelo no urbanizable
Authors: Gómez Rossi Mª Jesús
Published: May 2022

El libro se centra en el suelo no urbanizable, que ha ido adquiriendo en los últimos años un progresivo protagonismo por su vinculación directa con la protección del Medio Ambiente. En concreto, estudia en profundidad la implantación de actividades en esta clase de suelo, realizando un extenso recorrido sobre la materia por una dispar legislación autonómica. La idea nuclear de este trabajo bascula en torno a la necesidad de garantizar un mínimo común denominador, defendiendo que el Estado debe ir más allá de lo que hace actualmente para homogeneizar el régimen jurídico del suelo no urbanizable. Se cuestiona incluso la propia existencia de los conceptos jurídicos indeterminados "utilidad pública e interés social" o el tradicional "núcleo de población", debiendo asegurarse, en todo caso, la autonomía local. En sus páginas se analizan todas estas cuestiones con un espíritu crítico, proponiendo soluciones legales novedosas.
Learning Management System in Developing Countries: A Bibliometric Analysis Between 2005 and 2020
Authors: Pham Phuong-Tam , Lien Do Thi Hong , Kien Hoang Cong , Chi Ngo Hai , Tinh Phan Thi , Do Tung , Nguyen Linh Chi , Nguyen Tien-Trung
Published: May 2022

The learning management system (LMS) is a crucial component of the e-learning transformation which is becoming more urgent amid the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. The issue of adopting LMS is even more decisive in developing countries, where lots of efforts have been put out to broaden educational opportunities. However, there has not yet been any comprehensive analysis of how LMS-related issues are examined in these countries. To address this gap, this study uses the bibliometric method to construct an overview of research on this topic. The results unveil the distribution of the literature, prominent actors, and dominant themes in the literature of LMS in developing countries. In summary, the topic is a robustly potential research matter. Future researchers can use this study as a starter when investigating relevant subjects.
The Influence of Cognitive and Affective Factors on the Performance of Prospective Mathematics Teachers
Authors: Juniati Dwi , Budayasa I Ketut
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to determine the effect of cognitive and affective factors on the performance of prospective mathematics teachers. Cognitive factors include cognitive independence level and working memory capacity, while affective factor include math anxiety. Mathematical performance was then assessed as basic math skills, advanced math skills and problem-solving ability. This research combined quantitative and qualitative research methods. In order to determine the effects of cognitive independence, working memory capacity, and math anxiety on math performance, multiple regression tests were used. To then see the effects of these three factors on problem-solving ability, a qualitative approach was used. Eighty-seven prospective math teachers participated in this study. Based on the results of the multiple regression, it was found that the level of cognitive independence affects basic math skills but has no effect on advanced math skills. Working memory capacity was seen to positively affect math performance (basic and advanced math skills, problem-solving skills), while mathematics anxiety demonstrated negative effects on advanced math skills and problem-solving skills.
Design and Psychometric Properties of the Strategies for Meaningful Learnings Scale
Authors: Méndez-Hinojosa Luz Marina , Segura-Arévalo María Leticia
Published: May 2022

In higher education, it is essential that students apply what they have learned to solve problems in their community. Meaningful learning is the main means to increase the accumulation of knowledge and achieve the transfer of learning, which is why the present study aimed to: design and evaluate the psychometric properties of a scale that measures the application of learning strategies that promote meaningful learning. The participants were 890 university students from Northeast Mexico, with an average age of 20.35 years (SD = 3.94). The sample was randomly divided into two: an exploratory factor analysis was carried out with the first sample and a confirmatory factor analysis was made in the second sample. The results obtained confirm the eight-dimensional structure, which showed an adequate fit to the data (χ2 / gl = 3.57, GFI = .96, AGFI = .95, NFI = .94, RMSEA = .08 and SRMR = .07), high parsimony (RP = .93), in addition to good internal consistency (ω ≥ .80) and convergent validity (AVE ≥ .40). In conclusion, the scale presents adequate psychometric properties to measure the frequency of use of strategies that promote meaningful learning in Mexican university students.
How Does Working Memory Capacity Affect Students’ Mathematical Problem Solving?
Authors: Anjariyah Deka , Juniati Dwi , Siswono Tatag Yuli Eko
Published: May 2022

Problem-solving process requires information processing, and the information processing is related to working memory capacity (WMC). This study aims to determine the effect of WMC on students' mathematical abilities and to describe the ability of the students with high and low WMC in solving mathematical problems. This research used mixed method with Sequential Explanatory Design. The quantitative data were collected through the provision of OSPAN tasks and math tests to 58 students aged 15-17 years, while the qualitative data were collected through interviews based on mathematical problem-solving tasks. The results showed that WMC had a significant effect on students' mathematical abilities (R=0.536; p=0.000). Researchers found differences in students' mathematical problem-solving abilities with high and low WMC. Students with high WMC can remember and manage information well which supports the determination of more advanced problem-solving strategies and have better attention control so that they find varied appropriate solutions. Students with low WMC experienced decreased attention control as the complexity of the tasks increased, missed important information in problem solving strategies, and did not recheck their work, leading to wrong solution/answer. The mathematical performance of students with high WMC outperformed the mathematical performance of students with low WMC.
Developing Assessment Instrument Using Polytomous Response in Mathematics
Authors: Sutiarso Sugeng , Rosidin Undang , Sulistiawan Aan
Published: May 2022

This research is a developmental research aiming at developing a good mathematical test instrument using polytomous responses based on classical and modern theories. This research design uses the Plomp model, which consists of five stages, (1) preliminary investigation, (2) design, (3) realization/construction, (4) revision, and (5) implementation (testing). The study was conducted in three vocational schools in Lampung Province, Indonesia. The study involved 413 students, consisting of 191 male and 222 female students. The data were collected through questionnaire and test. The questionnaire was used to identify the assessment instruments currently employed by teachers and to be validated by the experts of mathematics and educational evaluation. The test used an open polytomous response test numbering of 40 items. The data were analyzed using both classical and modern theories. The results show that (1) the open polytomous response test has a good category according to classical and modern theory. However, the discrimination power of test items in classical theory needs several revisions, (2) the assessment instrument using the polytomous response of open multiple choice can guarantee information on the actual competence of students. This is proven by the fact that there is a harmony between the analysis result obtained from classical and modern theory from the students' arguments when giving reasons for their choices. Therefore, the open polytomous response test can be used as an alternative to learning assessment.
The Effectiveness of Multimedia Learning for Distance Education Toward Early Childhood Critical Thinking During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Choiriyah Choiriyah , Mayuni Ilza , Dhieni Nurbiana
Published: May 2022

The government has imposed social restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting the education sector, including the early childhood school. Distance education offers different methods from the conventional methods, as the students are expected to gain the same skills, including critical thinking skills. Therefore, teachers must provide distance learning innovations using relevant learning media, such as multimedia-based learning. This research aims to assess the efficacy of multimedia learning in early childhood distance learning. This research is a quantitative model with a quasi-experimental pretest and posttest design. The data collection technique utilized questionnaires given to 30 samples of early childhood children. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software. The results confirmed that multimedia-based learning for distance learning could develop critical thinking skills in early childhood children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of this study offer exploration of learning strategies to improve children’s critical thinking.
The Effects of Online Supervisory Feedback on Student-Supervisor Communications during the COVID-19
Authors: Rasool Ushba , Aslam Muhammad Zammad , Qian Jiancheng , Barzani Sami Hussein Hakeem
Published: May 2022

This study focuses on online supervisory written feedback on PhD supervisees’ performance, given explicitly through online communication, particularly during the first wave of COVID-19. This unusual situation has brought many different effects on students’ academic lives. This scenario has influenced both students’ and teachers’ mutual communication. A directed qualitative content analysis (DQCA) approach was adapted from previous research and modified for the present context. The current study planned to bring forth the supervisee and supervisors’ perception of the communication and feedback process, considering that online feedback and communication has been a new experience for most students. According to the findings, teachers/supervisors give feedback on students’ production, whereas teacher-student communication also seemed crucial for the performance improvising of learners. The result brought forth a wide range of social, educational, and surprisingly psychological issues both supervisees and supervisors faced during online communication during COVID-19.
Effectiveness of Online Learning Among Graduate Students: Comparison Between Cultures
Authors: Masry-Herzallah Asmahan
Published: May 2022

The research aimed to examine students' attitudes towards learning and teaching processes in an online course, investigating whether there was a difference between Jewish and Arab students' attitudes towards this course. The study combined mixed methods. Data were drawn from a questionnaire (including mostly closed-ended questions) completed by 195 graduate students and eight semi- structured interviews. Additionally, the students' grades for their course assignments were analyzed. Findings indicated that all course participants perceived the teaching and learning processes positively, but Jewish students held stronger positive attitudes concerning the learning processes' effectiveness than did Arab students. Jewish course participants' achievements were higher than those of Arab participants. The variable `sector` had a moderating effect on perceptions of the course structure's clarity and success in the course, strong clarity led to Arab students' success on the course but not for Jewish students. Arab students shared their difficulty adapting to a learning style necessitating autonomous learning processes. These findings are explained by Arab society's unique cultural dimensions, characterised by high-power distance and strong avoidance of uncertainty. The findings can inform designers of multicultural online courses that optimal teaching practices necessitate culture sensitivity, and this constitutes an issue for future studies.
Menstrual dirt: An exploration of contemporary menstrual hygiene practices in Sweden
Authors: Persdotter Josefin
Published: May 2022

Why is menstruation so often considered a dirty phenomenon, in both material and symbolic terms? How do ideas and realities of menstrual pollution affect the lived experience of menstruation and everyday hygiene practices? Josefin Persdotter’s study Menstrual Dirt explores how notions and materializations of pollution are enacted in different menstrual practices. It unpacks taken for granted aspects of menstrual life and reveals persistent gendered inequalities in relation to menstruation.
Comparison of contrast-to-noise ratios of different detection methods in ultrasound optical tomography
Authors: Bengtsson Alexander , Hill David , Shortiss Kevin , Rippe Lars , Kröll Stefan
Published: May 2022

Ultrasound optical tomography (UOT) is a hybrid imaging modality based on interaction between ultrasound and light, with a potential to extend optical imaging capabilities in biological tissues to depths of several centimeters. Several methods have been developed to detect the UOT signal. To better understand their potential for deep tissue imaging, we present a theoretical contrast-to-noise comparison between the spectral hole burning, single-shot off-axis holography, speckle contrast, and photorefractive detection methods for UOT. Our results indicate that spectral hole burning filters have the potential to reach the largest imaging depths. We find that digital off-axis holography and photorefractive detection can have good contrast-to-noise ratio at significant depths. The speckle contrast method has a smaller penetration depth comparatively.
New method for the determination of photoabsorption from transmittance measurements in the extreme ultraviolet
Authors: Delmotte Franck , Burcklen Catherine , Alameda Jennifer , Salmassi Farhad , Gullikson Eric , Soufli Regina
Published: May 2022

We have developed a new method for the determination of photoabsorption at extreme ultraviolet wavelengths longer than 20 nm, where reliable refractive index values are sparse or non-existent. Our method overcomes the obstacle of multiple reflections that occur inside thin films in this spectral range, which up until now has prevented the accurate determination of photoabsorption from transmittance measurements. We have derived a mathematical expression that is independent of internal reflection amplitudes, while taking advantage of the transmittance oscillations stemming from such reflections. The method is validated on measurements of aluminum thin films. This advance will enable accurate refractive index values for many important materials for optical instrumentation, thus facilitating high-priority research on topics including coherent light sources, planetary and solar physics, and semiconductor manufacturing.
Optical anisotropy of retarder film made from mixtures of rodlike and T-shaped reactive molecules: dependence on the chemical structure of T-shaped molecules
Authors: Nam Yunsu , Kim Seo-Young , Nam Ui-Chan , Park Bo-Kyoung , Im Jaeheung , Choi E-Joon , Lee Ji-Hoon
Published: May 2022

Five kinds of T-shaped reactive molecules were newly synthesized for optical retarder films. The retarder films were fabricated using the mixtures of rodlike reactive mesogen (RM) and the T-shaped molecules. The effect of the chemical structure of the T-shaped molecules on the optical anisotropy of the retarder films was investigated. The retarder films with the T-shaped molecules resulted in a greater magnitude of an in-plane retardation. Among the five kinds of the T-shaped molecules, the molecule with five benzene rings along the longitudinal direction and two benzene rings along the lateral molecular direction showed the widest liquid crystalline phase and the largest optical retardation. In addition, the NZ coefficients of the films were greater than 1 implying that the films were negative biaxial.
Using player types to understand cooperative behaviour under economic and sociocultural heterogeneity in common-pool resources: Evidence from lab experiments and agent-based models
Authors: van Klingeren Fijnanda
Published: May 2022

Rising migration numbers and the resulting increase in economic and sociocultural heterogeneity in societies all over the world are theorised to put pressure on the sustainable use of common-pool resources [CPRs]. Increased heterogeneity is argued to decrease trust and diversify interests between resource users, leading to overuse and decline of natural and man-made CPRs. The aim of this paper is to understand cooperative behaviour under economic and sociocultural heterogeneity in CPRs, through the analyses of experimental data including 344 subjects from the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, and 144 subjects from India. Multilevel regression, ordinal logistic regression, linear conditional-contribution profiles [LCPs] and agent-based models [ABMs] are used to analyse and replicate experimental outcomes on the micro- and macro-level. Results show that the combination of economic and sociocultural heterogeneity affects cooperation negatively when the decision-situation is perceived as unfair, but that neither economic nor sociocultural heterogeneity on themselves affect cooperation negatively. Economic heterogeneity is even found to affect cooperation positively relative to homogeneity. Player type classification based on LCP scores shows that experimental outcomes can be interpreted with player types, and ABM simulations validate the experimental results by replicating the main outcomes.
Once again without touch: Endless day via Digital 1.5
Authors: Preis Urška
Published: May 2022

Between May and November 2021, a series of performances entitled digital 1.5 took place at five different locations in Ljubljana, with five different casts under the direction of Jan Rozman. Last year the prolific young choreographer and performer honed his potential as the final resident author of the four-year cycle Ventilator. Other authors and past editions of this flexible project realized their mission to bridge the fields of music and performance; this time, however, it intensified a dialogue with technology.
Frljić, The Curse and Poland: Notes on militia
Authors: Stokfiszewski Igor
Published: May 2022

The Curse by Oliver Frljić, staged at the Powszechny Theatre in Warsaw in 2017, was the crowning point of political theatre. it is not only a formally excellent performance, but also an event that led to social turmoil. As a result, however, it also revealed the ambivalence of political theatre: in order for the performance to be staged, the presence of the police among the audience and in front of the theatre building was necessary. This alliance between the performance and the police exposes the limits of political theatre. Is there a logic that allows further experimentation with the political impact of the performing arts without the involvement of the police? Yes, the logic of the militia.
Técnicas de localización para la escisión quirúrgica guiada de los tumores tiroideos cervicales no palpables
Authors: Cambil-Molina Teresa , Martin-Hernandez Tomas
Published: May 2022

Introducción y objetivo: La cicatrización y los planos tisulares alterados se suman a la ya compleja anatomía del cuello y dificultan la localización de recidivas o metástasis no palpables en las reintervenciones cervicales del cáncer de tiroides. Síntesis: Describimos el uso de diversos técnicos de señalización empleadas para optimizar la cirugía y los resultados terapéuticos de pacientes con carcinoma papilar de tiroides con enfermedad cervical persistente o metastásica. Especialmente nos centramos en la técnica de localización utilizando semillas radiactivas (RSL) en la que se ha descrito, al igual que en la mama, excelentes resultados. Conclusiones: La RSL es una técnica segura, asociada a una mayor satisfacción del cirujano, con excelente tolerancia por el paciente, que, además, reduce el tiempo de la intervención quirúrgica proporciona mejores resultados cosméticos reduciendo el riesgo de morbilidad en comparación con el uso de colorantes, arpones y tatuajes. Además, permite el desacoplamiento completo de los programas de radiología y cirugía optimizando los tiempos y la programación de los quirófanos.