bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal location of a rigid inclusion in equilibrium problems for inhomogeneous Kirchhoff–Love plates with a crack
Authors: Lazarev Nyurgun , Itou Hiromichi
Published: June 2019

A non-linear model describing the equilibrium of a cracked plate with a volume rigid inclusion is studied. We consider a variational statement for the Kirchhoff–Love plate satisfying the Signorini-type non-penetration condition on the crack faces. For a family of problems, we study the dependence of their solutions on the location of the inclusion. We formulate an optimal control problem with a cost functional defined by an arbitrary continuous functional on a suitable Sobolev space. For this problem, the location parameter of the inclusion serves as a control parameter. We prove continuous dependence of the solutions with respect to the location parameter and the existence of a solution of the optimal control problem.
Cauterized suture for complete tube occlusion of Ahmed glaucoma valve in hypotony maculopathy
Authors: Canut María Isabel , Alonso-Agesta Maddi , Botella Jessica , Julio Gemma
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

To present our experience treating hypotony maculopathy with a simple, minimally invasive, and removable ab interno tube Ahmed glaucoma valve occlusion.

Methods:

Under topical anesthesia a 5–0 polypropylene suture (Prolene; Ethicon) was inserted into the Ahmed glaucoma valve tube. The length of the tube was measured, and an external suture cauterization was performed to allow an easier and safer fixation in the tube. The suture was introduced into the tube itself with the viscoelastic 27-gauge cannula.

Results:

This technique was performed in three cases of hypotony maculopathy with a complex history of medical treatments: a 4-year-old boy with Donnai-Barrow syndrome and previous pars plana vitrectomy that developed hypotony maculopathy the day after Ahmed glaucoma valve insertion and two male patients (69 and 49 years old) that underwent hypotony maculopathy after cyclophotocoagulation as a last option to reduce intraocular pressure. One of the men had three filtering surgeries, two 5-fluorouracil needlings and Ahmed glaucoma valve insertion. The other male patient had keratoplasty and posterior Ahmed glaucoma valve insertion. In the three cases, both hypotony and maculopathy were reversed within a week and a month, respectively, after Ahmed glaucoma valve occlusion with no complications. When hypotony maculopathy develops it seems suitable to occlude completely the Ahmed glaucoma valve tube to swiftly reverse clinical and anatomic changes.

Conclusion:

Intraluminal Ahmed glaucoma valve occlusion with cauterized suture is a simple, quick, reversible, and effective technique that may offer a minimally invasive way to resolve hypotony maculopathy in complex cases and avoid severe loss of vision.
Segmental scleral buckling without sling sutures around the muscles
Authors: Gao Lei , Cui Lei , Yim Cindi Kao , Lou Huadong , Wu Peng
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

To introduce a modified technique for segmental buckling through a small in situ conjunctival opening without rectus muscle traction for minimally invasive repair of uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Methods:

This technique was performed in 15 eyes of 15 selected patients with primary retinal detachment. Conventional traction sutures placed beneath rectus muscles were replaced by an absorbable translimbal traction suture at lesion quadrant. The conjunctival incision was made 8–9 mm posterior and parallel to the limbus. After cryopexy, a minimal explant was fixed with one to two sutures through the conjunctival opening, expanded by a pediatric speculum.

Results:

Retinal reattachments were achieved with correct buckle positions in all patients, with rapid cosmetic recovery.

Conclusion:

This modified buckling technique simplifies the buckling procedure, minimizes surgical invasiveness, preserves intact limbal conjunctiva, and relieves discomfort.
Molecular Characterization of Microbiota Associated With Sperm of Malaysian Mahseer Tor tambroides
Authors: Koh Ivan Chong Chu , Badrul Nizam Bin Hassan , Muhammad Abduh Yazid , Abol Munafi Ambok Bolong , Iehata Shumpei
Published: June 2019

Malaysian Mahseer ( Tor tambroides) is considered as a good prospect for aquaculture in Malaysia. However, knowledge about Malaysian Mahseer-associated sperm microbiota is still limited, although some studies reported that sperm-related bacteria are a factor in the decline of sperm quality, as sperm may become the carrier of pathogenic bacteria to the egg. The goal of this study was to evaluate the sperm microbiota associated with Malaysian Mahseer from 3 different locations (Universiti Malaysia Terengganu [UMT], Ajil, and Pahang) using polymerase chain reaction denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) fingerprinting and to compare location differences by cluster analysis. Our results showed that the UMT sample had different sperm microbiota composition and a different trend in its relationship with sperm quality. Correlation analysis showed a relationship between bacterial diversity and sperm quality. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that sperm microbiota was composed of diverse phyla, including Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. Interestingly, bacteria such as Salinisphaera sp., Pelomonas sp., and Staphylococcus spp. were detected in all the locations, suggesting that these bacteria are indigenous bacterial members of the Malaysian Mahseer sperm microbiota, although their function is still unclear.
New Mechanisms of DNA Repair Defects in Fused in Sarcoma–Associated Neurodegeneration: Stage Set for DNA Repair-Based Therapeutics?
Authors: Wang Haibo , Hegde Muralidhar L
Published: June 2019

Genome damage and defective DNA repair are etiologically linked to several neurodegenerative disorders, including fused in sarcoma (FUS)–associated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the underlying mechanisms remain enigmatic, which is a roadblock for exploiting genome repair-targeted therapies. Our recent studies identified defects in DNA nick ligation and oxidative damage repair caused by mutations in the RNA/DNA-binding protein FUS in familial ALS patients. In healthy neurons, FUS protects the genome by facilitating PARP1-dependent recruitment of XRCC1/DNA Ligase IIIα (LigIII) to oxidized genome sites and activating LigIII via direct interaction. This is a critical step in the repair of oxidative genome damage, a foremost challenge for postmitotic neurons due to their high oxygen consumption. We discovered that mutant FUS significantly inhibited the recruitment of XRCC1/LigIII to DNA strand breaks, causing defects in DNA ligation during the repair of oxidative DNA damage, which contributed to neurodegeneration. While the FUS loss of function was responsible for the repair defects, increased oxidative genome damage due to mutant FUS aggregation could exacerbate the phenomenon. We highlight how these new molecular insights into previously undescribed DNA repair defect linked to FUS-associated neurodegeneration could provide an important opportunity for exploring DNA repair-based therapeutic avenues.
Prevalence and Predictors of Statin Treatment Among Patients With Chronic Heart Failure at a Tertiary-Care Center in Thailand
Authors: Kosuma Pattamawan , Jedsadayanmata Arom
Published: June 2019

Background:

Statins play important roles in the prevention of atherosclerotic vascular diseases; however, their beneficial effects in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) are uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and predictors of treatment with statins to better understand their prescribing patterns in CHF patients.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study in patients with first-time diagnoses of CHF receiving care in the outpatient clinics affiliated with a tertiary-care teaching hospital in Thailand. Data were retrieved from electronic claims database. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of treatment with statins.

Results:

A total of 3445 patients were included in this study. Among them, 1908 (55.4%) were prescribed statins, with most of them (89.7%) receiving simvastatin 20 mg daily. Factors independently associated with the statin treatment include the following: being male (odds ratio [OR] = 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02-1.44, P = .03); diagnoses of dyslipidemia (OR = 4.88, 95% CI = 3.88-6.14, P < .001), ischemic heart disease (OR = 2.71, 95% CI = 2.18-3.36, P < .001), diabetes (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.55-2.46, P < .001), or cerebrovascular disease (OR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.12-2.40, P = .01); and receipt of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (OR = 3.44, 95% CI = 2.87-4.13, P < .001), aspirin (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 2.30-3.40, P < .001), non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (OR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.30-4.24, P = .004), organic nitrates (OR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.16-3.58, P = .01), beta-blockers (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.23-1.84, P < .001), and digoxin (OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.50-0.86, P = .002).

Conclusions:

Statins were prescribed to more than half of the newly diagnosed CHF patients. Independent predictors of statin treatments include hypercholesterolemia and comorbidities indicative of high atherosclerotic vascular risk as well as drugs recommended as cardiovascular protective therapy for CHF patients.
Improvement of Chemotherapy Solutions Production Procedure in a Hospital Central Chemotherapy Preparation Unit: A Systematic Risk Assessment to Prevent Avoidable Harm in Cancer Patients
Authors: Bourika Klio , Koutras Angelos , Kalofonos Haralambos , Vicha Anna , Tsiata Ekaterini , Papadimitriou Evangelia , Avgoustakis Konstantinos , Panagi Zoi
Published: June 2019

Objective:

This study was designed to reevaluate and improve the quality and safety of the chemotherapy preparation in a Central Chemotherapy Preparation Unit of a Public Hospital.

Methods:

A failure modes, effects, and criticality analysis (FMECA) was conducted by a multidisciplinary team. All potential failure modes at each stage of the chemotherapy preparation were recorded, and the associated risks were scored for their severity, occurrence, and detectability with a risk priority number (RPN). Corrective actions were suggested, and new RPNs were estimated for the modified process.

Results:

Failure modes, effects, and criticality analysis and priority matrix construction, revealed that the partial compliance of Unit’s premises with international standards (RPNstage: 307), the human errors throughout the compounding (RPNstage: 223)—labeling (RPNstage: 216)—prescribing (RPNstage: 198) steps, and the violation of working protocols by employees (RPNstage: 215), were the most important risks for which either urgent or immediate corrective actions had to be taken. Modifying the procedure through the proposed corrective actions is expected to lead to a significant (71.3%) risk containment, with a total RPNpreparation process reduction from 2102 to 604.

Conclusions:

Failure modes, effects, and criticality analysis and priority matrix development identified and prioritized effectively the risks associated with chemotherapy preparation allowing for the improvement of health services to cancer patients.
Effects of femtosecond laser texture on the tribological properties of 20CrNiMo/beryllium bronze tribo-pairs of rock bit sliding bearings under non-Newtonian lubrication
Authors: Zhong Lin , Wei Gang , Wang Guo-rong , He Xia , Liao Yang , Xie Nana
Published: June 2019

In this paper, the tribological characteristics of the unit tribo-pairs of rock bit sliding bearings under various loads and high temperatures were investigated. The conical textures, distributed in beryllium bronze surfaces with depth–diameter ratios ranging from 0.087 to 0.483, were fabricated using femtosecond laser irradiation. The friction characteristics of the 20CrNiMo/beryllium bronze tribo-pairs were tested at a high temperature of 120 ℃ and under non-Newtonian lubrication conditions using pin-on-disc configurations. The textured surfaces with depth–diameter ratios of 0.165 and 0.483 exhibited excellent lubrication and wear-resistant properties. In addition, the effects of the operating conditions on the tribological performance of the tribo-pairs were discussed.
Thermo-swing insulation to reduce heat loss from the combustion chamber wall of a diesel engine
Authors: Kawaguchi Akio , Wakisaka Yoshifumi , Nishikawa Naoki , Kosaka Hidemasa , Yamashita Hideo , Yamashita Chikanori , Iguma Hiroki , Fukui Kenji , Takada Noriyuki , Tomoda Terutoshi
Published: June 2019

Cooling heat loss is one of the most dominant losses among the various engine losses to be reduced. Although many attempts to reduce it by insulating the combustion chamber wall have been carried out, most of them have not been successful. Charge air heating by the constantly high temperature insulating wall is a significant issue, because it deteriorates charging efficiency, increases the emissions of soot and NOx in diesel engines, and promotes the knock occurrence tendency in gasoline engines. A new concept heat insulation methodology which can reduce cooling heat loss without heating the charging air has been developed. Surface temperature of insulation coating on the combustion chamber wall changes rapidly, according to the quickly changing in-cylinder gas temperature in each engine stroke. During the compression and expansion stroke, the surface temperature of the insulation coating goes up rapidly, and consequently, the heat transfer becomes lower by the reduced temperature difference between the surface and the gas. During the intake stroke, the surface temperature goes down rapidly, and it prevents intake air heating from the wall. To realize the above-mentioned functionality, a thin coating layer with low thermal conductivity and low heat capacity was developed. It was applied on the pistons of diesel engines, and showed improvement in thermal efficiency. It also showed a reduction of unburnt fuel emission in low temperature engine starting condition. The energy balance analysis showed reduction of cooling heat loss and, on the contrary, increase in the brake power and the exhaust loss.
Mechanism for pressure drop variation caused by filtration of diesel particulates
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Tajima Yuta
Published: June 2019

Diesel engines have better fuel consumption efficiency than gasoline engines. To reduce the particle emission in the diesel exhaust, a ceramic filter, called diesel particulate filter, has been developed. Unfortunately, the pressure drop (filter backpressure) continues to increase, resulting in an increase in fuel conversion rate as well as available torque. In order to develop the filter with lower pressure drop, the filter structure is strategically optimized in the design of the filter product. To do so, the information on phenomena during the filtration is needed. This article sets out numerically to study the variation in the pressure drop when the particulates are trapped inside the porous walls of diesel particulate filter. To discuss the flow dynamics and pressure drop caused by the soot deposition, the numerical simulation is purposely conducted in two-dimensional coordinate. This is because the variation in flow channel through pores during the filtration can be visualized easily. Here, eight filters were tested systematically. Utilizing these simulation results, we try to explain the main factors for the pressure drop variation during the filtration. Based on the presented results, it is shown that the flow field is gradually varied during the filtration. The knowledge regarding the well-known pressure drop variation observed in the stage from the depth filtration to the surface filtration is provided.
Predicting the absence of an unknown compound in a mass spectral database
Authors: Samokhin Andrey , Sotnezova Ksenia , Revelsky Igor
Published: June 2019

Only a small subset of known organic compounds (amenable for gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) is present in the largest mass spectral databases (such as NIST or Wiley). Nevertheless, library search algorithms available in the market are not able to predict the absence of a compound in the database. In the present work, we have tried to implement such prediction by means of supervised classification. Training and validation set contained 1500 and 750 compounds, respectively. Two prediction sets (containing 750 and about 3000 mass spectra) were considered. The easiest-to-use models were built with only one input variable: match factor of the best candidate or InLib factor (both parameters were calculated within MS Search (NIST) software). Multivariate classification models were built by partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA); match factors of top n candidates were used as input variables. PLS-DA was found to be the most effective approach. The prediction efficiency strongly depended on the ‘uniqueness’ of mass spectra presented in the test set. PLS-DA model was able to correctly predict the absence of a compound in the database in 29.9% for prediction set #1 and in 74.4% for prediction set #2 (only 1.3% and 2.5% of compounds actually presented in the database were wrongly classified).
Effects of step configuration on hydrodynamic performance of one- and doubled-stepped planing flat plates: A numerical simulation
Authors: Dashtimanesh Abbas , Roshan Fatemeh , Tavakoli Sasan , Kohansal Ahmadreza , Barmala Bahare
Published: June 2019

Categorized as one of high-speed marine vehicles, stepped planing hulls have the potential to reach relatively high speed in the sea by decreasing wetted surface. There were and still are some challenges in modeling of these vessels and design of ideal situation of steps. In the current study, a numerical-based method has been used to provide understanding about the effect of step height and its location on hydrodynamic characteristics of double-stepped planing plates. At the first step, one-stepped planing plate is numerically simulated. Results are compared against exiting numerical data, suggesting that results of the current numerical simulation are similar to results of previous numerical simulations. Then, double-stepped planing plates are modeled and pressure distribution, wetted length, free surface elevation and drag over lift ratio are computed. It is seen that, ventilation length behind the step and pressure coefficient are increased when step height of one- and a double-stepped planing plates are increased. It has been shown that, unlike an one-stepped planing plate, drag coefficient of a double-stepped planing plate can be increased when the step height is increased. The effects of the location of the second step on the performance of the planing plate have been explored, showing that this position plays a critical role on hydrodynamic forces. It is demonstrated that when the smallest possible lift force is produced by the middle-body, the plate shows the best performance (highest lift over drag ratio).
Climate-adaptive buildings: Systems and materials
Authors: Zarzycki Andrzej , Decker Martina
Published: June 2019

This article discusses research case studies that deploy physical computing with kinetic, pneumatic, and smart material technologies as vehicles to address the prospects of these technologies and their future impact on resilient and high-performance buildings. It looks into conceptual aspects of an integrated hybrid system that combines both computation approaches and unique opportunities inherent to these hybrid designs.
The Agency of the Principal–Agent Relationship: An Opportunity for HRD
Authors: Baker Rose M.
Published: June 2019

The Problem

Agency theory has been empirically studied in other fields of study such as economics, political science, sociology, and management. Although a proposal for inclusion of agency theory to test training and development outcomes was made in human resource development (HRD)-related publications, little research has been conducted and published in HRD-related literature.

The Solution

This review of agency theory offers a description of the elements and factors associated with the principal–agent relationship that have been theorized and empirically tested in other fields of study. Much of the theoretical implications are transferable to HRD. The principal–agent relationship should be empirically tested in HRD situations and interpreted through an HRD lens.

The Stakeholders

The review of the principal–agent relationship in other fields is expected to benefit HRD researchers, practitioners, principals, and agents in organizations by providing insight into the orientation, elements, and influence of principal–agent relationships.
The Life Cycle of Employee Engagement Theory in HRD Research
Authors: Kwon Kibum , Park Jiwon
Published: June 2019

The Problem

Although the current proliferation of employee engagement research in human resource development (HRD) has advanced our theoretical understanding of the nature of employee engagement and its importance, the scarcity of practical knowledge has circumscribed our understanding of how to assess, boost, and sustain employee engagement in workplaces.

The Solution

Examining the life cycle of employee engagement theory, we determined that employee engagement is in the initial stages of becoming a formal theory. A better understanding of the application of employee engagement theory would facilitate the development of more effective interventions for building employee engagement and would, in turn, strengthen the etiology of employee engagement, which represents a complex interplay of multiple variables involving individual and environmental factors.

Key Stakeholders

This study contributes to the HRD literature by elucidating the need for greater attention to the practical applications of employee engagement theory in HRD scholars and scholar-practitioners’ future research and practice.
Beyond Branding: The Value of Intersectionality on Streaming TV Channels
Authors: Christian Aymar Jean
Published: June 2019

This article argues that independent TV channels releasing narratives of intersecting identities innovate in the organization and technological dissemination of representations, specifying cultural production in ways that more fully value communities in the United States and at times abroad. Through interviews with founders of ten currently running and defunct independent channels, I show how the value of intersectionality is not simply in branding corporate channels or supplying them with new narratives but also in critiquing and reinventing industrial practices to accommodate communities historically excluded from the system. These indie channels allow scholars to see the work of development itself, chronically understudied despite its rapid expansion through net-neutral web distribution and its legacy as the process from which all TV shows emerge.
Adaptive Imaging Versus Periodic Surveillance for Intrafraction Motion Management During Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy
Authors: Ma Xiangyu , Yan Huagang , Nath Ravinder , Chen Zhe , Li Haiyun , Liu Wu
Published: June 2019

Objective:

To evaluate the benefits of adaptive imaging with automatic correction compared to periodic surveillance strategies with either manual or automatic correction.

Methods:

Using Calypso trajectories from 54 patients with prostate cancer at 2 institutions, we simulated 5-field intensity-modulated radiation therapy and dual-arc volumetric-modulated arc therapy with periodic imaging at various frequencies and with continuous adaptive imaging, respectively. With manual/automatic correction, we assumed there was a 30/1 second delay after imaging to determine and apply couch shift. For adaptive imaging, real-time “dose-free” cine-MV images during beam delivery are used in conjunction with online-updated motion pattern information to estimate 3D displacement. Simultaneous MV-kV imaging is only used to confirm the estimated overthreshold motion and calculate couch shift, hence very low additional patient dose from kV imaging.

Results:

Without intrafraction intervention, the prostates could on average have moved out of a 3-mm margin for ∼20% of the beam-on time after setup imaging in current clinical situation. If the time interval from the setup imaging to beam-on can be reduced to only 30 seconds, the mean over-3 mm percentage can be reduced to ∼7%. For intensity-modulated radiation therapy simulation, with manual correction, 110 and 70 seconds imaging periods both reduced the mean over-3 mm time to ∼4%. Automatic correction could give another 1% to 2% improvement. However, with either manual or automatic correction, the maximum patient-specific over-3 mm time was still relatively high (from 6.4% to 12.6%) and those patients are actually clinically most important. In contrast, adaptive imaging with automatic intervention significantly reduced the mean percentage to 0.6% and the maximum to 2.7% and averagely only ∼1 kV image and ∼1 couch shift were needed per fraction. The results of volumetric-modulated arc therapy simulation show a similar trend to that of intensity-modulated radiation therapy.

Conclusions:

Adaptive continuous monitoring with automatic motion compensation is more beneficial than periodic imaging surveillance at similar or even less imaging dose.
Can the Student Outperform the Master? A Plan Comparison Between Pinnacle Auto-Planning and Eclipse knowledge-Based RapidPlan Following a Prostate-Bed Plan Competition
Authors: Smith April , Granatowicz Andrew , Stoltenberg Cole , Wang Shuo , Liang Xiaoying , Enke Charles A. , Wahl Andrew O. , Zhou Sumin , Zheng Dandan
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Pinnacle Auto-Planning and Eclipse RapidPlan are 2 major commercial automated planning engines that are fundamentally different: Auto-Planning mimics real planners in the iterative optimization, while RapidPlan generates static dose objectives from estimations predicted based on a prior knowledge base. This study objectively compared their performances on intensity-modulated radiotherapy planning for prostate fossa and lymphatics adopting the plan quality metric used in the 2011 American Association of Medical Dosimetrists Plan Challenge.

Methods:

All plans used an identical intensity-modulated radiotherapy beam setup and a simultaneous integrated boost prescription (68 Gy/56 Gy to prostate fossa/lymphatics). Auto-Planning was used to retrospectively plan on 20 patients, which were subsequently employed as the library to build an RapidPlan model. To compare the 2 engines’ performances, a test set including 10 patients and the Plan Challenge patient was planned by both Auto-Planning (master) and RapidPlan (student) without manual intervention except for a common dose normalization and evaluated using the plan quality metric that included 14 quantitative submetrics ranging over target coverage, spillage, and organ at risk doses. Plan quality metric scores were compared between the Auto-Planning and RapidPlan plans using the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results:

There was no significant difference between the overall performance of the 2 engines on the 11 test cases ( P = .509). Among the 14 submetrics, Auto-Planning and RapidPlan showed no significant difference on most submetrics except for 2. On the Plan Challenge case, Auto-Planning scored 129.9 and RapidPlan scored 130.3 out of 150, as compared with the average score of 116.9 ± 16.4 (range: 58.2-142.5) among the 125 Plan Challenge participants.

Conclusion:

Using an innovative study design, an objective comparison has been conducted between 2 major commercial automated inverse planning engines. The 2 engines performed comparably with each other and both yielded plans at par with average human planners. Using a constant-performing planner (Auto-Planning) to train and to compare, RapidPlan was found to yield plans no better than but as good as its library plans.
Meaning in Mentoring: More Than Meets the Eye/“I”
Authors: Warhurst Russell P. , Black Kate
Published: June 2019

While the literature of mentoring is extensive, the theorization of mentoring is a noted deficiency. In addressing this deficiency, this conceptual article begins with a brief critical analysis of the extensive corpus of mentoring inquiry and discerns emerging theoretical trajectories as a foundation for the distinct theoretical focus adopted. The social constructionist approach to understanding identity, and Lacanian psychodynamic identity theorizing, is critically developed. The conceptualization of identity as a discursive construct, emerging from a balance between conscious identity-work and unconscious identity-regulation, is examined. These theoretical tools are then applied to mentoring. The article demonstrates that for both mentors and protégés, mentoring involves mutually beneficial identity-work, but that this identity-work can readily go awry with both parties potentially succumbing to forces distorting desired identities and negating the good intentions of mentoring. The implications for mentoring practice are detailed, and trajectories for empirical inquiry with identity are outlined.
Development of composite indices and a regional assessment framework for analyzing nation-state health
Authors: Ahner Darryl K , Thompson Jennifer L , Justice Karleine M
Published: June 2019

In support of efforts to predict nation-states’ health, this paper develops a methodology that addresses incorporating disparate data from a variety of sources and utilizing both subject matter expertise and mathematical insights to effectively choose variables to use in a predictive model. The developed model can then capture the interrelatedness and complexities reflective of an actual operational environment. When selecting the indicators to be included in the composite indices, it is critical to evaluate the correlation that exists (or does not exist) between indices. If significant correlation is found, it could result in “double-counting” one or more variables, meaning bias exists in the analysis. Once the indicators have been selected and composite indices formed, in order to effectively evaluate a country’s health, we have developed a regional assessment framework and provided an example risk assessment based on the country of Syria. The results of this research provide a robust analysis approach to understanding and, ultimately, assessing a nation-state’s health. While the initial steps rely heavily on subject matter expert input for identification of indicators for each Political, Military, Economic, Social, Information index, once a solid list of indicators has been selected and weighted, future analysis can be readily conducted following the Region Mean Assessment Framework plan.
Marriage Aspiration, Perceived Marriage Squeeze, and Anomie Among Unmarried Rural Male Migrant Workers in China
Authors: Li Weidong , Li Shuzhuo , Feldman Marcus W
Published: June 2019

Using data from a survey of rural–urban migrants conducted in Xiamen City, China, during 2009, this study explores determinants of anomie among unmarried rural male migrant workers in the context of China’s gender imbalance. Results indicate that the perceived marriage squeeze has exerted direct effects on anomie, and marriage aspiration has indirect effects on anomie among rural male migrant workers. The perceived marriage squeeze also has a mediating effect between marriage aspiration and anomie among unmarried rural male migrant workers. Social integration in the destination city is also a determinant of anomie among these unmarried migrant workers.
Can coaches predict long-term career attainment outcomes in adolescent athletes?
Authors: Cripps Ashley J , Hopper Luke S , Joyce Christopher
Published: June 2019

Coaches’ subjective perceptions of an athlete's career potential play an important role in the identification and subsequent selection of talented adolescents into or out of development pathways. However, evidence suggests that these perceptions may be biased by variations in athlete maturity. The primary aim of this study was to examine the predictive accuracy of development pathway coaches’ perceptions when tasked with identifying adolescent athlete’s long-term potential within the Australian Football talent pathway. A secondary aim was to explore if the maturational status of adolescent athletes influenced the accuracy of coaches’ long-term career attainment predictions. This observational study initially recruited adolescent athletes (n = 264) and their coaches (n = 9) from teams involved in a state-based Australian Football competition. At the initial testing sessions, estimates for biological maturity were undertaken for all athletes and coaches were asked to rate the perceived long-term career attainment potential of their athletes via a questionnaire. Four years after this initial questionnaire, the research team retrospectively examined each athlete’s highest level of competition attained. Coaches correctly predicted the level of career attainment for 63% of athletes, demonstrating a fair level of agreement (κ = 0.25, 95% CI = −0.16–0.35, p < 0.001) between coach perception and actual career progression outcomes. The coaches’ greatest level of predictive accuracy was for late maturing athletes (79% accuracy), while the poorest was for the early maturing athletes (52% accuracy). The findings of this study highlight the complexity associated with correctly identifying athletes with long-term performance potential at early stages of development pathways.
Psychological contract, job satisfaction, commitment, and turnover intention: Exploring the moderating role of psychological contract breach in National Collegiate Athletic Association coaches
Authors: Bravo Gonzalo A , Won Doyeon , Chiu Weisheng
Published: June 2019

This study examined the relationship between psychological contract and three work attitudes, job satisfaction, affective commitment, and turnover intention in a sample of National Collegiate Athletic Association coaches. This study also explored the moderating role of the psychological contract by examining coaches' perceptions of the intentional and unintentional breach. A total of 383 coaches responded to the survey that included items in the transactional and relational psychological contract, job satisfaction, affective commitment, and turnover intention. In addition, the sample was split into two groups, intentional breach and unintentional breach based on their responses to a single question regarding the perceived breach status. Results revealed that the transactional contract had a positive influence on job satisfaction and a negative influence on affective commitment. On the other hand, the relational contract had positive influences on both job satisfaction and affective commitment. Job satisfaction had a positive influence on affective commitment, which negatively led to turnover intention, while affective commitment had no significant influence on turnover intention. A multi-group analysis was conducted to test whether the psychological contract breach moderated the paths in the hypothesized model. The paths from transactional contract to satisfaction and commitment as well as from satisfaction to turnover intention were moderated by the psychological contract breach. The transactional contract–job satisfaction relationship was meaningful for the unintentional breach group, while the transactional contract–affective commitment relationship was stronger with the intentional breach group. The job satisfaction–turnover intention relationship was stronger with the intentional breach group than with the unintentional breach group.
The role of a critical care outreach service in the management of patients with haematological malignancy
Authors: Taheri Leila , Anandanadesan Rathai , de Lavallade Hugues , Pagkalidou Eirini , Pagliuca Antonio , Mufti Ghulam , Auzinger Georg , Metaxa Victoria
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Although improvement in survival from haematological malignancies has been reported, a substantial number of these patients develop life threatening complications. Critical care outreach services (CCOS) aim to avert inappropriate ICU admissions, while ensuring timely patient review.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed patients with haematological malignancy reviewed by an outreach service between January 2014 and December 2015 at a single institution. The aim of our study was to describe the patient population assessed by a well-established outreach team, identify predictors of ICU admission, as well as ICU and hospital mortality.

Results

Sixty of 126 patients reviewed (47.6%) were admitted to ICU. ICU and hospital mortality were 25.3% and 45.2%, respectively. The odds of being admitted to ICU was 13 times higher ( p = 0.013) if the patient was referred for hypoxia, 20 times higher ( p = 0.006) if they were referred for sepsis or 14 times higher ( p = 0.027) if they were referred to CCOS for hypotension, compared to when the team was automatically alerted. The odds of not surviving hospital admission increased 1.27 times for every extra day of CCOS review ( p = 0.02). When a patient was referred having a refractory or progressive haematological condition, the odds of not surviving to hospital discharge increased by four or 12 times, respectively, compared to when the referred patient was in remission. Receiving high flow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNCO) was associated with a reduction in ICU admission ( p = 0.03), irrespective of the underlying diagnosis, performance status or location of delivery. The CCOS participated in end-of-life discussions in 29% patients.

Conclusions

ICU and hospital mortality of patients with haemato-oncological malignancy continue to improve. CCOS are heavily involved in the recognition and management of these patients, as well as in the facilitation of end-of-life discussions. Sepsis was associated with increased risk of ICU admission and mortality. Initiation of HFNCO outside ICU appears to be feasible and safe and was not associated with increasing risk in this single centre study.
Computational fluid dynamics analysis of hand-cycle aerodynamics with static wheels: Sensitivity analyses and impact of wheel selection
Authors: Mannion Paul , Toparlar Yasin , Blocken Bert , Hajdukiewicz Magdalena , Andrianne Thomas , Clifford Eoghan
Published: June 2019

Aerodynamics research in cycling has underpinned innovative bicycle design, new refined riding positions and optimised rider apparel. There has been a rise in the level of aerodynamics research focused on cycling since the turn of the millennium, enabled by significant increases in computational power and the availability of software/hardware. However, cycling research has not yet fully embraced para-cycling, with limited studies conducted on the aerodynamic performance of hand-cyclists and other para-cyclists. Wind tunnel experiments and computational fluid dynamics simulations were conducted in this research for the analysis of hand-cycling aerodynamics, focused on competitive H1–H4 category hand-cyclists. A quarter-scale representative geometry of a hand-cyclist was used in high-speed wind tunnel experiments. The accuracy of the simulations performed with the three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations was found to be dependent on the turbulence model choice and near-wall grid resolution. Computational fluid dynamics simulations predicted the magnitude of the drag and lateral forces to an accuracy of 2.5% using the shear stress transport [Formula: see text] turbulence model. This study also presents the impact of wheel diameter and disc wheels on hand-cycling aerodynamics via computational fluid dynamics simulations, providing a deeper understanding of the aerodynamic characteristics unique to the hand-cycling discipline in the sport of competitive cycling. Drag reductions of up to 8.9% were found when utilising 20-inch diameter spoked wheels, opposed to the 26-inch wheels. Variations in wheel diameter between the front and rear wheels were found to have a significant impact on the CDA in part through altering the pitch angle of the hand-cycle.
Labor Divides, Informality, and Regulation: The Public Opinion on Labor Law in Latin America
Authors: Berens Sarah , Kemmerling Achim
Published: June 2019

While scholarship on the politics of labor market divides and labor law in Latin America has bloomed in recent years, this literature rarely looks at the role of public opinion. Using data on public attitudes towards labor law for 18 Latin American countries, we start filling this gap. We follow the literature on labor market divides to see how far those at the margins of the formal labor market differ in their opinions from the formally employed. We find that large segments of the people perceive labor law as protective for workers, but there are also important divides: Whereas formal sector workers indeed assess the protective function of labor law positively, informal sector workers are more sceptical. Moreover, we find feedback effects of labor law on these differences of opinion. We conclude with a discussion how these divides in attitudes also have political effects, especially on voting behavior.
Mosquito Larvicidal Activities and Chemical Compositions of the Essential Oils of Leucas Zeylanica Growing Wild in Vietnam
Authors: Hung Nguyen Huy , Thi Hong Chuong Nguyen , Satyal Prabodh , Hieu Ho Viet , Dai Do Ngoc , Huong Le Thi , Sinh Le Hoang , Thi Bich Ngoc Nguyen , Hien Vu Thi , Setzer William N.
Published: June 2019

Dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever are hyperendemic to Vietnam with frequent outbreaks and epidemics. Control of the vectors for dengue viruses, Aedes mosquitoes, is critical to maintain control of this disease. In this work, the essential oil of Leucas zeylanica was examined for larvicidal activity against the Aedes mosquito vector. Leucas zeylanica was collected from three different locations in Vietnam. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry. The essential oil from the aerial parts of L. zeylanica was screened for mosquito larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The major components of L. zeylanica essential oil from Vietnam are β-caryophyllene, α-humulene, germacrene D, β-selinene, caryophyllene oxide, 1-tetradecanol, and phytol. Leucas zeylanica essential oil showed good larvicidal activity against both Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti with median lethal concentration—LC50 (24 hours) values of 67 and 44 μg/mL, respectively. Thus, L. zeylanica essential oil represents an inexpensive and environmentally benign agent for control of the dengue virus vectors.
Relationship between the shift of socioeconomic status and cardiovascular mortality
Authors: Sung Jidong , Song Yun-Mi , Hong Kyung Pyo
Published: June 2019

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate whether upward or downward shifts in socioeconomic status have an effect on cardiovascular mortality.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Among the Korean National Health Insurance Service National Sample Cohort, 178,812 subjects were selected who were over 20 years of age as of 2002, with available data on routine health check and free of a diagnosis of ischaemic heart disease, stroke, heart failure or cancer at baseline. Cause of death was identified by the death certificate. Stratification of socioeconomic status was done by income as low (lower 30th percentile), high (higher 30th percentile) and middle, which was reclassified annually. Shift in socioeconomic status was defined as any change in the income class from baseline.

Results

During the follow-up of a median 10 years, cardiovascular mortality was significantly higher among middle and low socioeconomic status groups (hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval for middle 1.92 (1.68–2.19) and low 1.73 (1.50–2.00)) compared to the high socioeconomic status group after adjustment for age, gender, residence, blood pressure, fasting glucose, smoking and medications (statins and antiplatelet agents). In the same regression model, an upward shift of socioeconomic status was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular death (hazard ratio 0.46, 95% confidence interval 0.40–0.52), while a downward shift was not a significant predictor.

Conclusion

An upward shift of socioeconomic status was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular mortality after adjustment for baseline socioeconomic status, conventional risk factors and risk-reducing pharmacological treatments.
A Bridge of Light: Toward Chinese and Western Medicine Perspectives Through Ultraweak Photon Emissions
Authors: Yang Meina , Van Wijk Eduard , Pang Jingxiang , Yan Yu , van der Greef Jan , Van Wijk Roeland , Han Jinxiang
Published: June 2019

The gap between Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine (CM) is closely related to the diversity in culture, philosophy, and scientific developments. Although numerous studies have evaluated the efficacy of acupuncture, the gap in explanatory disease models has not been bridged so far. Developments in research of ultraweak photon emission (UPE) and organized dynamics of metabolism and its relationship with technological advances in metabolomics have created the conditions to bring the basics of the medicines of the West and East together which might open the avenue for a scientific dialogue. The paper discusses (1) the UPE in relation to Qi energy, meridians and acupuncture points in CM, (2) the biochemical explanation of photon emission of living systems in Western biomedicine, and (3) the progress in research on the large-scale organization and dynamics of the metabolic network including photon metabolism.
Dividend and Investment Decisions of Indian Corporate Firms Under Cash Flow Uncertainty
Authors: Lahiri Poulomi
Published: June 2019

The Miller–Modigliani theory proposed that in perfect capital market, dividend and investment decisions are mutually separable, which is commonly known as the “separation principle.” On the basis of this theory, this article tries to investigate the dividend–investment relationship from a new perspective by introducing the cash flow uncertainty. This cash flow uncertainty is measured by cash flow shortfall and cash flow volatility. Using firm-specific data on relevant variables of the BSE-listed firms from 2001 to 2015, this article tries to explore the instruments which help to resolve cash flow uncertainty of the firm. Classifying firms into quintiles and dividing them into positive and negative shortfalls on the basis of both the measures of cash flow uncertainty, our main results show that firms mainly use external financing to resolve cash flow uncertainty. However, cash drawdown plays a trivial role in mitigating shortfalls. Moreover, applying the linear panel data estimation, the relationship between dividend and investment is explored for firms having a positive cash flow shortfall, using both measures of cash flow uncertainty. Our results reported that firm’s investment decision has no impact on dividend decision and vice versa. Hence, dividend and investment choices are made independently under cash flow uncertainty. Thus, our results support the “separation principle” under cash flow uncertainty.
Empirical Analysis of Farmers’ Intention to Adopt Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Authors: Syan Amanjot Singh , Kumar Vikas , Sandhu Vikram , Hundal Bikramjit Singh
Published: June 2019

The present research aims to study the farmers' intention to adopt sustainable agriculture practices. The sample size of 283 respondents has been considered and responses have been recorded from different areas of Punjab state (India) using a research schedule. The study considered six dimensions namely perceived usefulness; self efficacy; extension services; social capital; facilitating conditions and compatibility have been taken from the existing literature. The data thus collected, has been analysed using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis. The results of the study confirmed that perceived usefulness, self efficacy and extension services play a significant role whereas social capital, facilitating conditions, and compatibility have no significant impact on the decisions to implement sustainable Agricultural practices.