bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of faults in rotor-bearing system using three-level full factorial design and response surface methodology
Authors: Mishra Hara P , Jalan Arun
Published: July 2021

This article presents the experimental and statistical methodology for localized fault analysis in the rotor-bearing system. These defects on outer race, on inner race, and on a combination of ball and outer race are considered. In this study speed, load and defects were considered as the essential process variables to understand their significance and effects on vibration response for the rotor-bearing system. Three factors at three levels were considered for experimentation, and the experiment was designed for L27 based on design of experiments (DOE) methodology. From the experiments, the vibration response results are recorded in terms of root mean square value for the analysis. Response surface methodology (RSM) is used for identifying the interaction effect of varying process parameters upon the response of vibrations by response surface plot. The rotor-bearing test setup is used for experimentation and is analyzed by using DOE. This study establishes the prediction of fault in the rotor-bearing system in combined parametric effect analysis and its influence with DOE and RSM.
Embedded linear model predictive control in field-programmable gate array using register-transfer level implementation and floating-point representation applied to a quadrotor system model
Authors: de Farias Alceu Bernardes Castanheira , Murilo André , Lopes Renato Vilela
Published: July 2021

Model predictive control is increasingly becoming a popular control strategy for a wide range of applications in both industry and academia, mainly motivated by its ability to systematically handle constraints imposed on a system, regardless of its nature. However, this generates high computational demands, limiting the applicability of model predictive control. Field-programmable gate arrays are reconfigurable hardware platforms that allow the parallel implementation of model predictive control, accelerating such algorithms, but most works found in the literature opt to use high-level synthesis tools and fixed-point numeric representation to generate embedded controllers, resulting in faster-designed solutions but not exactly efficient and flexible ones, that can be applied to different scenarios. Regarding such matter, this work proposes the manual implementation (register-transfer level implementation) of linear model predictive control and the usage of floating-point numeric representation applied to a quadrotor system. The initial results obtained using the proposed controller are presented in this article, achieving 29.34 ms of calculation time at 50 MHz for the attitude control of a quadrotor model containing twelve states and four control outputs.
A description of the clinical course of severe benzonatate poisonings reported in the literature and to NPDS: A systematic review supplemented with NPDS cases
Authors: Minhaj FS , Leonard JB
Published: July 2021

Background:

Benzonatate is a commonly prescribed medication that can be lethal in acute overdose of a small number of capsules.

Objective:

This was a systematic review to describe the course of severe poisoning and deaths from benzonatate supplemented with the National Poison Data System (NPDS) fatalities module.

Methods:

The NPDS was queried from 2000 to 2018 for benzonatate fatalities. Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for combinations of benzonatate and “poisoning,” “overdose,” and “toxicity.” References of relevant articles were searched for additional publications. Articles were included if they described the clinical course of at least one patient suffering from benzonatate poisoning and available in English. Dual independent review and extraction were performed.

Results:

Seventeen cases from NPDS and 19 published reports met the inclusion criteria resulting in 36 cases, mostly (28/36) self-harm ingestions. Most patients were young [17 (11–29), median (IQR)] and female (22). Onset of toxicity was rapid at <5 min (9). Most common symptoms included cardiac arrest (29), seizures (24), and dysrhythmias (24). Treatments included intubation (26), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (28), vasopressors (20) and others. Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved in 23/28 patients, but most had significant neurologic deficits or other end organ damage and 5 survived with a good neurologic outcome.

Conclusion and relevance:

Overdose ingestions of benzonatate can cause significant toxicity with a rapid onset. Interventions performed were generally supportive in nature. Duration of directly toxic effects is short, but dramatic with neurologic devastation and resuscitated patients often still have a poor outcome.
Association of intracluster correlation measures with outcome prevalence for binary outcomes in cluster randomised trials
Authors: Mbekwe Yepnang Ariane M , Caille Agnès , Eldridge Sandra M , Giraudeau Bruno
Published: July 2021

In cluster randomised trials, a measure of intracluster correlation such as the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) should be reported for each primary outcome. Providing intracluster correlation estimates may help in calculating sample size of future cluster randomised trials and also in interpreting the results of the trial from which they are derived. For a binary outcome, the ICC is known to be associated with its prevalence, which raises at least two issues. First, it questions the use of ICC estimates obtained on a binary outcome in a trial for sample size calculations in a subsequent trial in which the same binary outcome is expected to have a different prevalence. Second, it challenges the interpretation of ICC estimates because they do not solely depend on clustering level. Other intracluster correlation measures proposed for clustered binary data settings include the variance partition coefficient, the median odds ratio and the tetrachoric correlation coefficient. Under certain assumptions, the theoretical maximum possible value for an ICC associated with a binary outcome can be derived, and we proposed the relative deviation of an ICC estimate to this maximum value as another measure of the intracluster correlation. We conducted a simulation study to explore the dependence of these intracluster correlation measures on outcome prevalence and found that all are associated with prevalence. Even if all depend on prevalence, the tetrachoric correlation coefficient computed with Kirk’s approach was less dependent on the outcome prevalence than the other measures when the intracluster correlation was about 0.05. We also observed that for lower values, such as 0.01, the analysis of variance estimator of the ICC is preferred.
Fabrication and properties of polyaniline/ramie composite fabric based on in situ polymerization
Authors: Ke Guizhen , Chowdhury Mofasser Haque , Jin Xinya , Li Wenbin
Published: July 2021

Polyaniline (PANI) is one of the most important conducting polymer and has been widely used in various fields for its tunable electrical conductivity. In this manuscript, conductive polyaniline/ramie fabrics were developed by in situ polymerization and characterized. The effect of aniline content, polyetherimide (PEI) pretreatment, padding and the color depth (K/S value) on electrical resistivity was analyzed. The result showed that electrical conductivity was increased with the increase of aniline (ANI) contents. PEI pretreatment and padding method improved the conductivity of the fabric significantly. The result of K/S value was reversely consistent with the conductivity. Both scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed that polyaniline particles were successfully deposited on the surface of the ramie fabrics. Thermal degradation (TG) measurement showed that polyaniline (PANI) polymerization decreased the onset decomposition temperature. Mechanical measurement showed that pretreatment process reduced the tensile strength of conductive ramie fabrics by 30%. K/S value in full range showed that the color of PANI/ramie fabric was sensible to pH value. Contact angle (CA) measurement disclosed the conductive PANI/ramie fabric was hydrophobic and this hydrophobicity was stable to the change of pH value. The obtained PANI/ramie fabrics can be used as potential conductive multifunctional textiles.
Preclinical assessment of chitosan–polyvinyl alcohol–graphene oxide nanocomposite scaffolds as a wound dressing
Authors: Montazeri Arash , Saeedi Fariba , Bahari Yaser , Ahmadi Daryakenari Ahmad
Published: July 2021

The present research aimed to examine the biological properties of chitosan (CS)–polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) scaffolds reinforced with graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets, as wound dressings. The scaffolds were characterized by various techniques. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry analyses (TGAs) were used to investigate distribution of the GO within the polymer. The viscoelastic properties were evaluated by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) to examine the quality of a wound dressing. In vitro and in vivo studies were conducted to assess the biocompatibility of the scaffolds as wound dressing. The cell viability and proliferation results indicated that mouse fibroblast cells (L929) could adhere on the 50CS–50PVA/3 wt% GO scaffold. Herewith, the fabricated CS–PVA–GO nanocomposite scaffolds are suggested as promising biomaterials for skin tissue engineering and wound dressing.
Turnover among medical clowns early in their career
Authors: Reizer Abira , Koslowsky Meni , Antilevich-Steg Rivki
Published: July 2021

In recent years, several investigations of the medical clowning profession have appeared in the literature. However, few studies have focused on factors associated with turnover among medical clowns early in their careers. The current study examined whether individual differences in humor disposition predicted turnover behavior. Participants were 111 medical clowns in a three-phase longitudinal study. Humor disposition was measured in the first week of their training, clowns' job satisfaction two months later, and turnover six months after that. Results showed that humor appreciation decreased actual turnover through the mediating role of job satisfaction, whereas individual differences in humor creation directly decreased turnover. In addition, previous traumatic experiences moderated the associations between humor appreciation and turnover. Overall, our research findings support the notion that humor disposition can help predict which clowns remain in the hospital.
Effects of Different Methods Used to Take Blood Samples on Blood Glucose Measurements
Authors: Ergin Eda , Zaybak Ayten
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study is to compare whether or not there is a difference between venous and capillary blood samples in blood glucose measurements and investigate the effects of different aseptic methods used in skin cleaning before collecting blood samples on measurement results. This quasi-experimental study was conducted with 109 patients. The capillary first and second blood drop values taken from the patients after fasting and at 2 hours following 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and capillary and venous blood glucose values were compared. There was no significant difference between the median venous blood glucose value and the capillary second blood drop value taken after wiping the finger with alcohol. There was no significant difference between the first and second blood drop values of capillary blood glucose 2 hours after OGTT.
Counseling Clients Who Have Experienced Undisclosed Infidelity
Authors: Curtis Russ , Likis-Werle Elizabeth , Shelton Terry
Published: July 2021

Undisclosed infidelity is when one partner suspects betrayal, but the other partner denies it. While the literature is replete with helping couples heal from disclosed infidelity, very few scholarly articles address working with betrayed partners of undisclosed infidelity. Researchers indicated the accuracy of detecting undisclosed infidelity and the propensity for betrayers to lie when confronted, thus counselors need to be aware of the traumatic effects associated with undisclosed infidelity to skillfully support clients.
Evaluation of retinal inflammatory biomarkers after intravitreal steroid implant and Ranibizumab injection in diabetic macular edema
Authors: Muftuoglu Ilkay Kilic , Tokuc Ecem Onder , Sümer Fatma , Karabas V Levent
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy of intravitreal (IV) ranibizumab (IVR) injection with IV dexamethasone implant (IVDEX) in treatment naive diabetic macular edema (DME) patients with inflammatory component.

Materials and methods:

Treatment naive DME eyes with subfoveal neurosensorial detachment (SND) and hyperreflective spots (HRS) were treated either three loading doses of IVR (18 eyes) or one dose of IVDEX (19 eyes). Central macular thickness (CMT), height of SND, the number of HRSs scattered on the individual retinal layers and photoreceptor integrity were assessed using spectral domain- optical coherence tomography scans over 3-months follow-up.

Results:

The mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was −0.11 ± 0.08 logMAR in IVDEX group and −0.04 ± 0.06 logMAR in IVR group at 1-month ( p = 0.011). IVDEX group showed statistically significant more increase in BCVA compared to those receiving IVR injections at 2-months ( p = 0.004) and 3-months ( p = 0.017) visits. Compared to baseline, the number of total HRSs and the number of HRSs at each individual inner retinal layer significantly decreased in both groups at all follow-up visits. However, IVDEX group showed more decrease in the total number of HRSs at 2- and 3-months ( p < 0.001 at 2-months, and p = 0.006 at 3-months) and in the mean number of HRSs located at inner nuclear layer–outer plexiform layer level ( p = 0.016 at 1-month, p < 0.001 at 2-months, and p < 0.001 at 3-months). After treatment, the number of HRSs on the outer nuclear layer showed some non-significant increase in both groups.

Conclusion:

HRSs tended to migrate from inner retina to the outer retina in DME eyes by treatment. Dexamethasone seemed to be more effective option in such cases with inflammatory component.
Pre-emptive or reactive treatment, angioplasty or stent-graft? The outcome for interventions for venous stenosis in early-cannulation arteriovenous grafts
Authors: Kingsmore David B , Stevenson Karen S , Thomson Peter C , Kasthuri Ram , Knight Stephen , Jackson Andrew , Hussey Keith , Richarz Sabine , Isaak Andrej
Published: July 2021

Background:

Early-cannulation arteriovenous grafts (ecAVG) have good initial patency, but frequent episodes of reintervention for venous stenosis (VS) and thrombosis limit their use. Stent grafts (SG) have shown promise in reducing re-interventions and improving functional patency for dysfunctional ecAVG and recurrent VS. There is little data on the impact of stent grafts as the first elective procedure for VS. The aim of this study was to determine firstly, if treating VS whilst asymptomatic has a better outcome than treating after presentation with thrombosis; and secondly, to determine the best initial treatment for asymptomatic VS: SG or angioplasty.

Methods:

A retrospective study was performed of 259 ecAVG with a sutured anastomosis. The case-mix and outcomes of 153 who presented with VS was analysed by presentation (elective at surveillance or emergency following thrombosis), and then for only elective patients, by treatment (SG vs angioplasty).

Results:

There was no significant difference in case-mix and time to presentation by mode of presentation (100 elective and 53 with thrombosis) other than a higher rate of pro-thrombotic disorders in thrombosed ecAVG. Thrombosed ecAVG had poorer outcomes with increased re-intervention rates and thrombosis in the following year, and reduced long-term functional patency. In patients presenting electively, primary SG rather than angioplasty led to significantly reduced thrombosis rates, a longer time to re-intervention in the following year, and superior long-term functional patency. The use of SG was the same in both groups. Both the mode of presentation and the type of intervention performed were independently predictive of a poorer subsequent functional patency.

Conclusions:

Primary elective stent-grafting may be the optimal strategy to reducing maintenance costs with ecAVG.
Development of the Pre-service Physical Education Teachers' Teacher Identity Scale
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Keating Xiaofen D
Published: July 2021

The development of a teacher identity (TI) profoundly impacts teacher education program graduates' career intention and teaching practices. Existing studies on pre-service physical education teachers' teacher identity (PPET-TI) have used qualitative methods to focus on the dynamic and reflective features of TI. Quantitative studies that help reveal the universal and stable aspects of TI across contexts are scarce, which may be due to a lack of measuring instruments of PPET-TI. This study aimed to develop and examine the psychometric properties of the PPET-TI Scale. Scale items and structure were developed based on the theoretical framework of dynamic systems model of role identity, interviews with 19 pre-service physical education teachers (PPETs), and content validity evaluations by 10 experts. The initial PPET-TI Scale was then validated among 523 PPETs. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a measurement model including three domains: self-definitions, teaching goals, and professional responsibilities. This model showed an acceptable model fit to the data. Convergent validity, criterion validity, and discriminant validity of the scale scores were also within the acceptable range. The scores of the PPET-TI Scale also showed an acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.91 for the entire scale). Teacher educators may use the PPET-TI Scale to understand PPETs' current TI and identify areas for intervention. The PPET-TI Scale enables future quasi-experimental studies to identify influencing factors of TI development and examine the effectiveness of TI interventions.
A modified version of friction stir welding process of aluminum alloys: Analyzing the thermal treatment and wear behavior
Authors: Abdollahzadeh Amin , Bagheri Behrouz , Abbasi Mahmoud , Sharifi Farzaneh , Mirsalehi Seyyed Ehsan , Moghaddam Ahmad Ostovari
Published: July 2021

In this article, the effect of vibration and cooling media on the friction stir welding of 5083Al alloy is investigated. The vibration was introduced by the motor into the fixture inserted under the workpiece while a cooling media (water and lubrication oil) flowed into a canal in the fixture beneath the weld path. A constant rotation speed of 1250 r/min and a traveling speed of 90 mm/min were used for all the welding conditions. The thermal analysis measured by several thermocouples indicated that friction stir vibration welding (FSVW) provided maximum temperature distribution in the workpiece, while friction stir welding with the water cooling exhibited the lowest temperature value. The microstructure observations were conducted by optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The results indicated substantial grain refinement when vibration and water cooling were simultaneously applied during the friction stir welding process. The hardness values increased from 50 to around 78 (Hv) for friction stir welding and FSVW with water systems, respectively. The joint efficiency (the ratio of the joint strength to the base metal strength) of the joint fabricated by FSVW with water cooling was around 87%, while this quantity was about 66% for the friction stir welding joint. Fracture analysis indicated more ductile behaviors for the samples fabricated by FSVW with the coolant systems. Furthermore, the joint fabricated by FSVW with water cooling exhibited the best wear resistance among all the samples in a pin-on-disk wear test.
An innovation in finite element simulation via crystal plasticity assessment of grain morphology effect on sheet metal formability
Authors: Habibi Mostafa , Darabi Roya , Sa Jose C de , Reis Ana
Published: July 2021

Experimental and numerical study regarding the uniaxial tensile test and the forming limit diagram are addressed in this paper for AL2024 with the face-centered cube structure. First, representation of a grain structure can be obtained directly by mapping metallographic observations via scanning electron microscopy approach. Artificial grain microstructures produced by Voronoi Tessellation method are employed in the model using VGRAIN software. By resorting to the finite element software (ABAQUS) capabilities, the constitutive equations of the crystal plasticity were utilized and implemented as a user subroutine material UMAT code. The hardening parameters were calibrated by a trial and error approach in order to fit experimental tensile results with the simulation. Then the effect of the changing grain size, the heterogeneity factor, and the grain aspect ratio were studied for a uniaxial tensile test to emphasize the importance of the microstudy behavior of grains in material behavior. Furthermore, the polycrystal plasticity grain distribution was employed in the Nakazima test in order to obtain the forming limit diagram. The crystal plasticity-driven forming limit diagram reveals more accurate strains, taking into account the involving the micromechanical features of the grains. An innovative approach is pursued in this study to discover the necking angle, both in tensile test or Nakazima samples, showing a good agreement with the experiment results.
Fashioning an elite entrepreneurial identity via the endorsement of gendered, designer dress codes and artefacts of success
Authors: Smith Robert
Published: July 2021

Despite the recent proliferation of articles on entrepreneurial identity in the last decade, little consideration has been given to the semiotics and aesthetics of how such identity formation is operationalised via the adoption of artefacts of success and sartorial signifiers of such success to construct, fashion and influence such identities. Using semiotic analysis techniques this article explores the deliberate fashioning of gendered elite entrepreneurial identities in the blogs of an American entrepreneur and influencer Jana Arnold. Visual data was collected and analysed to illustrate the processes involved. The findings indicate that the possession of branded clothing and artefacts, combined with their physical appearance can lead to the formation of a distinctive ‘aesthetic capital’ which confers a visual legitimacy which can be commodified as a commercialised identity. The findings also suggest that the juxtaposition of selective dress, props and settings combine to create a form of branded, elitist expressiveness conveyed via the presentation of designer fashion, branded artefacts and high value marques and products. Collectively these can coalesce to form an authenticated entrepreneurial identity for those entrepreneurs who can afford to buy and maintain the monetised identity.
Differences between adolescents in secure residential care and non-residential educational facilities
Authors: Pronk Sanne , Germie Van den Berg , Kuiper Chris , Popma Arne , Geert Jan Stams , Mulder Eva
Published: July 2021

In this cross-sectional study, we examined differences between 351 adolescents allocated to secure residential youth care and the non-residential alternative educational facility School2Care (12–18 years old, 63% boys). Data were collected by means of the official school registration system and standardized questionnaires.

Findings

Results showed that adolescents in both settings had severe problems. Emergency situations, problems in daily functioning in all life domains, and previous out-of-home placements were found to be associated with allocation to secure residential youth care instead of non-residential alternative education. These three factors may be considered risk factors for secure residential placement of adolescents with complex needs.

Applications

This study provides input for the prevention of secure residential youth care, because the two dynamic (changeable) risk factors for residential out-of-home placement (i.e., emergency situations and adolescent’s daily life functioning) should be considered as intervention targets in non-residential care, while static factors (i.e., history of out-of-home placement) can be used to improve risk assessment of residential out-of-home placement, with higher risk requiring more intensive treatment according to the risk-need-responsivity model for effective mandated treatment.
Selection of marine type air compressor by using fuzzy VIKOR methodology
Authors: Kaya Ahmet , Başhan Veysi , Ust Yasin
Published: July 2021

Ships have to maintain many auxiliary machineries with high power consumption, and these machineries generally run continuously for long hours. One of the auxiliary machineries that consume a lot of power in ships is the air compressor. These air compressors are especially important as they are used at the start of the main engine and generator diesel engines. Therefore, a suitable selection of these compressors is vital, in terms of technical requirement, energy efficiency, and cost effectiveness. The main focus of this study is to decide the optimum compressor in terms of all technical and operational criteria. In this context, using the fuzzy VIKOR method, five different and worldwide known compressor brands are listed in terms of selection by evaluating seven different and important criteria. These criteria were evaluated by five experts working as technical directors in shipping companies without being informed of each other. Briefly, this study aims to assist shipping companies in choosing the optimal compressor to suit their primary operating goals, considering the navigating routes and conditions of commercial ships. We believe that it is possible to close this gap in the literature and to select the optimum compressor according to the technical and operational needs.
Early childhood administrators’ use of and beliefs about inclusive practices for gay and lesbian families
Authors: Averett Paige , Hegde Archana V , Church Julie
Published: July 2021

This qualitative study utilized purposive sampling across the state of North Carolina to examine the practices of early childhood administrators in creating centers that were inclusive to gay and lesbian headed families. Data from four open-ended questions were analyzed to consider the use of picture books, promotional materials, and training for staff that were lesbian and gay parent focused. As well, a fourth question that asked for any feedback the participants wished to share revealed underlying beliefs and values of the NC administrators. Results indicated a continuum of practices that tended toward heterosexism and homophobia with limited lesbian and gay affirming practices reported. Implications include the need to increase training availability, increase LGBT content in early childhood preparation programs, and creation of policies that are inclusive to lesbian and gay headed families in early childhood settings.
The other gaze: The futures of family participation in the classroom
Authors: Hollar Jesslyn , Hollar Jim
Published: July 2021

Our futurist perspective here imagines a world where parents can gaze into their child/children’s classroom at the touch of a button. Our paper asks what learning spaces would look like if home can observe school at the touch of a button? What opportunities and constraints would be realized or continue to exist?
Call the Rezadora: Aiding Latino Families at the End of Life
Authors: Larson Kim L. , Jewell Graziella D. , Maldonado Maria Fernanda , Braxton Morgan E. , Johnson Lee Ann
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The rezadora, a lay spiritual leader, provides support to Latino families as they provide end-of-life (EOL) care for loved ones. The purpose of this study was to learn about the work of the rezadora in Guatemala as a resource for Latinos with serious illness in the United States.

Methods:

An ethnographic exploratory case study was conducted during summer 2018 in rural Guatemala. We interviewed three rezadoras who resided in two villages. The study yielded two cases, the single case and the paired case, which allowed for a holistic view of how the rezadora serves the community.

Results:

Content and thematic analysis led to two themes: Essence of being called and Power of prayerful song. Essence of being called was represented by the prominence of the rezadora and their perpetual faith work. Power of prayerful song was characterized through the mission, customs, and the presence of the rezadora. A good death was aided by the rezadora in this context.

Conclusions:

As the Latino population ages in place, the need for palliative and EOL care services will increase. Lay spiritual leaders could enhance the palliative care teams in these communities and improve the quality of life for Latinos with serious illness.
Current Status Regarding the Safety of Inpatient Versus Outpatient Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Puzzitiello Richard N. , Moverman Michael A. , Pagani Nicholas R. , Menendez Mariano E. , Salzler Matthew J.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Surgeons have begun to transition total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) to the outpatient setting in order to contain costs and reallocate resources.

Purpose:

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the safety and cost of outpatient TSA by assessing associated complication rates, clinical outcomes, and total treatment charges.

Methods:

The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library online databases were queried in March 2020 for studies on outpatient shoulder arthroplasty. Inclusion criteria were (1) a study population undergoing TSA, (2) discharge on the day of surgery, and (3) inclusion of at least 1 reported outcome.

Results:

Of 20 studies identified that met inclusion criteria, 14 were comparative studies involving an inpatient control group, 2 of which were matched by age and comorbidities. The remaining studies used control groups consisting of inpatient TSAs who were older or more medically infirm according to American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) or Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores. The combined average age of the outpatient and inpatient groups was 66.5 and 70.1 years, respectively. Patients who underwent outpatient TSA had similar rates of readmissions, emergency department visits, and perioperative complications in comparison to inpatients. Patients also reported comparably high levels of satisfaction with outpatient procedures. Four economic analyses demonstrated substantial cost savings with outpatient TSA in comparison to inpatient surgery.

Conclusion:

In carefully selected patients, outpatient TSA appears to be equally safe but less resource intensive than inpatient arthroplasty. Nonetheless, there remains a need for larger prospective studies to decisively characterize the relative safety of outpatient TSA among patients with similar baseline health.
The potential for person-centred planning to support the community participation of adults with an intellectual disability
Authors: McCausland Darren , Murphy Esther , McCarron Mary , McCallion Philip
Published: July 2021

Person-centred planning (PCP) puts individuals with an intellectual disability at the centre of service and support planning, identifying how individuals wish to live their lives and what is needed to make that possible. PCP has been identified as having the potential to facilitate improved social inclusion and community participation. A mixed-methods approach combined quantitative analyses with qualitative case studies of individuals with severe-profound intellectual disability to assess the impact of PCP on community participation for adults with an intellectual disability at a disability service in Dublin. We conclude that PCP may provide a good basis to plan community participation and, with the right supports in place, may provide opportunities for people with complex needs to improve their community participation. Supports including familiar staff and family are critical to the success of PCP for people with complex needs, and their absence may undermine the best intentions of PCP for this population.
On the foundation and use of the de minimis principle in a risk analysis context
Authors: Aven Terje , Seif Azadeh
Published: July 2021

‘De minimis risk’ is a basic concept and principle of risk analysis, which states that risks which are sufficiently small can be ignored. This principle is commonly used in practical risk analysis and related decision-making, but its rationale is debated. Recently, authors have argued that de minimis reasoning has no place in rational decision-making. The present paper provides a perspective on the foundation and use of this principle in a risk analysis context. The main aim of the paper is to gain new knowledge about the meaning and scope of the principle in view of contemporary risk science. We evaluate the extent to which different perspectives on risk can explain the disputes concerning the suitability of the principle. Current discussions of the principle have to a large extent been based on probabilistic-based frameworks, whereas the present study also addresses uncertainty-based risk perspectives. Examples are used to illustrate the discussion.
A reliability assessment approach for slab track structure based on vehicle-track dynamics and surrogate model
Authors: Li Zai-Wei , Liu Xiao-Zhou , Chen Si-Xin
Published: July 2021

The reliability assessment of rail infrastructure is directly related to the safety and effectiveness of railway transportation and critical for railway management department. This paper presents an approach for service reliability analysis of slab track from the point of view of the vehicle-track system operational safety. The vehicle-track dynamics is simulated by the established finite element model (FEM) and the limit state function (LSF) is defined on the danger of derailment. To reflect the real state of track geometric condition, the track irregularity spectrums (TISs) are extracted from the measured track irregularity data and fitted by the seven-parameter formula. Then, a set of time series can be obtained from the TISs using a binary wavelet-based inversion method and then input to the FEM to obtain the value of LSF. Finally, Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) is used in the calculation of track reliability. To overcome the slow convergence of the vehicle-track models, this study develops a surrogate model based on support vector machine (SVM). It is validated that the established SVM can well approximate the relationship between the track irregularities to the derailment coefficients in terms of small error and high correlation. More importantly, the efficiency is more than 1000 times higher than traditional FEM. This is a pioneering study to incorporate vehicle-track dynamics into the reliability assessment of slab track in service. For a 1024-m section of slab track, results show that its reliability index can satisfy the requirement in specifications.
Comparative communication studies within and beyond Great China
Authors: Liu Jun , Su Chris Chao
Published: July 2021

The scholarship on media and communication studies focusing on Greater China has burgeoned in recent years. Yet, little is known about how such scholarship would tackle other sub-fields and the core debates and developments in communication studies beyond the scope of Greater China. In this introduction, we delineate six articles in the Special Issue ‘Comparative Communication Studies Within and Beyond China’ in terms of three layers of comparision consisting of the macro-level unit of analysis, the dimension of comparison, and the design and analysis strategy of comparison. Together, the articles deliver updated investigations about Greater China’s media and communicative environment, provide a comprehensive outlook on the insights to be gained from comparing the Greater Chinese media system with its counterparts across the world, and reflect on both differences and similarities between Greater China and other countries across a spectrum of social, political, and cultural factors.
Strong-tie discussion, political trust and political participation: A comparative study of mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan
Authors: Ai Minwei , Zhang Nan
Published: July 2021

This study examined the relationships between social media use, strong-tie discussion, and political participation in three Chinese societies, mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Our findings showed that strong-tie discussion is positively related to collective action participation across the three societies. More importantly, strong-tie discussion mediates the effect of political use of social media on political participation in mainland China and Taiwan, but not in Hong Kong. Furthermore, we explored the moderation role of political trust, finding that it narrows down the participation gap between those who use social media more and those who use less in Hong Kong and Taiwan, while enlarges the participation gap in mainland China. This study contributes to the theory of deliberative and participatory democracy by examining the role of strong tie in Chinese contexts and suggests that strong-tie discussion may exert a more important effect on political participation in a more collectivistic society.
Interaction of equivalence ratio fluctuations and flow fluctuations in acoustically forced swirl flames
Authors: Kather Vincent , Lückoff Finn , O. Paschereit Christian , Oberleithner Kilian
Published: July 2021

The generation and turbulent transport of temporal equivalence ratio fluctuations in a swirl combustor are experimentally investigated and compared to a one-dimensional transport model. These fluctuations are generated by acoustic perturbations at the fuel injector and play a crucial role in the feedback loop leading to thermoacoustic instabilities. The focus of this investigation lies on the interplay between fuel fluctuations and coherent vortical structures that are both affected by the acoustic forcing. To this end, optical diagnostics are applied inside the mixing duct and in the combustion chamber, housing a turbulent swirl flame. The flame was acoustically perturbed to obtain phase-averaged spatially resolved flow and equivalence ratio fluctuations, which allow the determination of flux-based local and global mixing transfer functions. Measurements show that the mode-conversion model that predicts the generation of equivalence ratio fluctuations at the injector holds for linear acoustic forcing amplitudes, but it fails for non-linear amplitudes. The global (radially integrated) transport of fuel fluctuations from the injector to the flame is reasonably well approximated by a one-dimensional transport model with an effective diffusivity that accounts for turbulent diffusion and dispersion. This approach however, fails to recover critical details of the mixing transfer function, which is caused by non-local interaction of flow and fuel fluctuations. This effect becomes even more pronounced for non-linear forcing amplitudes where strong coherent fluctuations induce a non-trivial frequency dependence of the mixing process. The mechanisms resolved in this study suggest that non-local interference of fuel fluctuations and coherent flow fluctuations is significant for the transport of global equivalence ratio fluctuations at linear acoustic amplitudes and crucial for non-linear amplitudes. To improve future predictions and facilitate a satisfactory modelling, a non-local, two-dimensional approach is necessary.
The Pandemic and the Crisis of Democracy in Brazil
Authors: Avritzer Leonardo , Rennó Lucio
Published: July 2021

Some claim that an erosion of democracy is occurring worldwide. There are also questions on the scope of the crisis, which countries are affected, and how to reverse it. The Covid-19 pandemic may have fostered disagreements, deepened rifts, and contributed to the definitive crystallisation of the crisis, but it may also have engendered more moderate and compliant attitudes given the need to unify around the response to common threat. We explore the current dilemmas of democracy in the Brazilian case, focusing on how regime legitimacy, authoritarian attitudes, and support for a populist, authoritarian leader interact and are affected by the pandemic, using public opinion data from 2018 to 2020.
Efficacy of dural venous sinus stenting in treating idiopathic intracranial hypertension with acute vision loss
Authors: Zehri Aqib H , Lee Katriel E , Kartchner Jeff , Arnel Madison , Martin Timothy , Wolfe Stacey Q , Fargen Kyle M
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Dural venous sinus stenting (VSS) is an effective, durable treatment for patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) due to underlying venous sinus stenosis. However, the use of venous sinus stenting to treat IIH with acute vision loss has rarely been described.

Methods

A retrospective chart analysis identified patients who received VSS for fulminant IIH, defined as acute (< 8 weeks) visual field loss to within the central 5° and/or a decrease in visual acuity to less than or equal to 20/50 in either eye in the presence of papilledema.

Results

Ten patients were identified with average patient age of 31.0 years, and all except one were female. Mean body mass index was 41.2 kg/m2. All patients presented with vision loss and some with headache and tinnitus. The average trans-stenotic gradient pre-stenting was 28.7 mmHg (range 9–62 mmHg). All patients had diminished or resolved venous gradients immediately following the procedure. At mean follow-up of 60.5 weeks, 100% had improvements in papilledema, 80.0% had subjective vision improvement, 55.6% had headache improvement and 87.5% had tinnitus improvement. 90.0% had stable or improved visual acuity in both eyes with a mean post-stenting Snellen acuity of 20/30 and an average gain of 3 lines Snellen acuity post-stenting (95% confidence intervals 0.1185–0.4286, p = 0.0018). Two patients (20.0%) required further surgical treatment (cerebrospinal shunting and/or stenting) after their first stenting procedure.

Conclusions

This series suggests that VSS is feasible in patients presenting with IIH and acute vision loss with a fairly low complication rate and satisfactory clinical outcomes.
The case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union on ‘judicial authority’ and issuing European arrest warrants
Authors: Harkin Tricia
Published: July 2021

The case law of the Court of Justice from 2016 to 2019 on the interpretation of ‘judicial authority’ in Article 6(1) FD-EAW essentially examines whether a public prosecutor can be an issuing judicial authority and if so, how Member States’ systems for issuing EAWs ensure effective judicial protection for the person concerned. For the Advocate General, applying the Court’s ‘rule of law’ jurisprudence, effective judicial protection when deprivation of liberty is involved can only be assured by a body with the highest level of judicial independence, being a court. The Court’s broader approach of including public prosecutors with sufficiency of independence from the executive and requiring their decisions to be amenable to review by a court, when applied in practice arguably falls short of the requisite standard of effective judicial protection. There is also a lack of clarity about access to the interpretative jurisdiction of the Court by public prosecutors acting as judicial authorities. Effective judicial protection and EU cooperation in criminal matters would now be better served by the designation in all Member States of a court as the issuing judicial authority for the FD-EAW. This is against the background of the uniquely coercive nature of the EAW in terms of deprivation of liberty; the differences in Member States’ institutional arrangements for public prosecutors and the post-Lisbon effective constitutionalisation of judicial protection of rights of individuals.
Non-surgical treatment for periodontitis and peri-implantitis: longitudinal clinical and bacteriological findings—A case report with a 7-year follow-up evaluation
Authors: Shiba Takahiko , Watanabe Takayasu , Komatsu Keiji , Koyanagi Tatsuro , Nemoto Takashi , Ohsugi Yujin , Michi Yasuyuki , Katagiri Sayaka , Takeuchi Yasuo , Ishihara Kazuyuki , Iwata Takanori
Published: July 2021

The aim of this report is to show that periodontitis and peri-implantitis with horizontal bone resorption in a 68-year-old male patient were successfully treated by non-surgical treatment. Scaling with an ultrasonic device was performed for moderate periodontitis around the mandibular left first premolar and moderate peri-implantitis around the maxillary right molar implants. Root planing with a metal curette was performed for the periodontal site, and debridement with a plastic curette was performed for the peri-implant site. A month after treatment, probing depth decreased from 5 to 2 mm at the periodontal site and 8 to 3 mm at the peri-implant site. The investigation of bacterial composition by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene amplicons showed that the composition similarly changed at both sites, 5 years after treatment; the change reflected the typical recovery of periodontitis. The clinical condition was maintained for 7 years after treatment at both sites. This was a successful case of non-surgical treatment for peri-implantitis with horizontal bone resorption, promoting recovery of the microbiota from dysbiotic shift.
Performance of CURB-65, PSI, and APACHE-II for predicting COVID-19 pneumonia severity and mortality
Authors: Chen Junnian , Liu Bang , Du Houwei , Lin Hailong , Chen Cunrong , Rao Shanshan , Yu Ranjie , Wang Jingjing , Xue Zhiqiang , Zhang Yixian , Xie Yanghuang
Published: July 2021

No prognostic tools for the prediction of COVID-19 pneumonia severity and mortality are available. We explored whether CURB-65, PSI, and APACHE-II could predict COVID-19 pneumonia severity and mortality. We included 167 patients with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia in this retrospective study. The severity and 30-day mortality of COVID-19 pneumonia were predicted using PSI, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scales. Kappa test was performed to compare the consistency of the three scales. There was a significant difference in the distribution of the scores of the three scales ( P < 0.001). Patients with PSI class ⩽III, CURB-65 ⩽1, and APACHE-II-I all survived. The ROC analysis showed the areas under the curve of the PSI, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scales were 0.83 (95% CI, 0.74–0.93), 0.80 (95% CI, 0.69–0.90), and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.75–0.92), respectively. Our findings suggest that PSI and CURB-65 might be useful to predict the severity and mortality of COVID-19 pneumonia.
Window dressing in the Active Share scores in publicly reported portfolios
Authors: Andreu Laura , Forner Carlos , Sarto José Luis
Published: July 2021

Using a unique database that includes publicly disclosed fund holdings at the end of the quarter as well as the holdings in all non-publicly disclosed months, we found that some funds could alter their portfolios in publicly disclosed months to artificially increase their Active Share scores and consequently appear more active and take advantage of the positive relationship between Active Share and money flows. We show how, consistent with non-informed trades, these funds erode their future performance. However, these funds reach their objective of increasing future money flows. Moreover, we find that window-dresser funds can be identified by controlling the level of tracking error. The funds with high Active Share scores and low tracking errors have the highest levels of Active Share window dressing and the worst future returns. However, compared with less active funds, they are able to capture higher money flows.

JEL CLASSIFICATION G23; G11