bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vulnerability of Drop Ceilings in Roadway Tunnels to Fire-Induced Damage
Authors: Ouyang Ziyan , Guo Qi , Quiel Spencer E. , Naito Clay J.
Published: July 2021

Roadway tunnels often include a reinforced concrete drop ceiling that is hung from the liner to create a plenum that facilitates ventilation and houses utilities. Drop ceiling panels are lightweight compared with the much thicker tunnel liner and can experience significant damage from a fire on the roadway below. This paper examines the flexural response of drop ceiling panels in two representative tunnels to standard fire curves as well as several realistic fires due to vehicular accidents. Standard fire demands as per the Rijkswaterstaat and ASTM E1529 fire curves are uniformly applied to the ceiling panels, and heat exposure contours for typical vehicle fires with heat release rates of 30, 100, and 200 MW are generated from the software CFAST. The finite element analysis software SAFIR is used to evaluate the thermo-mechanical behavior of the ceiling panels when subjected to various thermal demands from the fire below. The analysis results indicate that drop ceiling panels are highly vulnerable to fire-induced damage and potential collapse both during a fire’s active heating phase (from simultaneous loss of capacity and restraint of thermal expansion) and during the subsequent cooling period (from tension that develops when the permanently deformed panel thermally retracts). The potential for fire-induced damage or collapse of the drop ceiling panels can be mitigated by reducing the fire hazard, removing the drop ceiling, or enhancing the fire resistance of the panels via the application of passive protection or structural hardening.
Experimental Performance of Polyester-Fiber-Based Soil Geogrids against Reflective Cracks
Authors: Evirgen Burak , Buyuk Baris , Cil Gizem Tugce , Deger Tonguc
Published: July 2021

Road pavements may be subjected to deterioration problems caused by excessive traffic loads, thousands of load repetitions, environmental and climatic conditions, freeze-thaw effects, and insufficient design of mixtures. The formation of reflective cracks is the most common structural problem that occurs on a road’s superstructure over time. Special applications requiring expensive geosynthetics, such as glass-fiber-based geogrids (GG) or carbon-fiber-based geogrids, are generally used to solve this problem. Therefore, in this study, the utility of polyester-fiber-based soil geogrid (PG) is investigated as an alternative solution in relation to experimental performance analysis. Three-point bending tests are realized to custom-engineered hot mix asphalt plate specimens, with and without geogrids, under full-capacity static loading, cyclic loading, and dynamic fatigue loading conditions. Although the same bending strength levels are seen for plate specimens, including GG and PG reinforcements with a 100 kN/m tensile strength, PG-containing specimens show a 42% greater performance in the case of cyclic loading. Moreover, PG-reinforced plates have greater elastic behavior than GG plates, up to 49.4% within a dynamic fatigue test at the end of 15,000 cycles. As a result, it is shown that reflective cracks can be more effectively delayed by the use of soil PGs, rather than GGs, in relation to overall performance and service life.
Assessment of Crash Occurrence Using Historical Crash Data and a Random Effect Negative Binomial Model: A Case Study for a Rural State
Authors: Diaz-Corro Karla J , Moreno Leyla Coronel , Mitra Suman , Hernandez Sarah
Published: July 2021

This work identifies factors that influence crash occurrence within a traffic analysis zone (TAZ) by accounting for location-specific effects and serial correlation in longitudinal crash data. This is accomplished by applying a random effect negative binomial (RENB) model. Unlike commonly used count models such as Poisson and negative binomial (NB), RENB accounts for heterogeneity and serial correlation in crash occurrence. An RENB was applied to 15 years of crash data in Arkansas with 1,817 TAZs. Four models were developed for total crashes and by severity (property damage only (PDO), injury, and fatal). RENB-estimated impacts were measured using the incidence rate ratio (IRR). The significant causal factors found to increase in observed crashes include: (i) average precipitation (a one-unit increase in average precipitation results in a 134% increase in total monthly crashes for a TAZ); (ii) average wind speed (16%); (iii) urban designation (7%); (iv) traffic volume (2%); and (v) total roadway mileage (1% for each functional class). Snow depth and days of sunshine were found to decrease the number of accidents by 15% and 2%, respectively. Employment and total population had no impact on crash occurrence. Goodness-of-fit comparisons show that RENB provides the best fit among Poisson and NB formulations. All four model diagnostics confirm the presence of over-dispersion and serial correlation indicating the necessity of RENB model estimation. The main contribution of this work is the identification of crash causal factors at the TAZ level for longitudinal data, which supports data-driven performance measurement requirements of recent federal legislation.
Robust Capacitated Train Rescheduling with Passenger Reassignment under Stochastic Disruptions
Authors: Hong Xin , Meng Lingyun , Corman Francesco , D’Ariano Andrea , Veelenturf Lucas P. , Long Sihui
Published: July 2021

During railway operations unexpected events may occur, influencing normal traffic flows. This paper focuses on a train rescheduling problem in a railway system with seat-reserved mechanism during large disruptions, such as a rolling stock breakdown leading to some canceled services, where passenger reassignment strategies have also to be considered. A novel mixed-integer linear programming formulation is established with consideration of train retiming, reordering, and reservicing. Based on a time–space modeling framework, a big- M approach is adopted to formulate the track occupancy and extra train stops. The formulation aims to maximize the passenger accessibility measured by the amount of the transported passengers subject to canceled services and to minimize the weighted total train delay for all trains at their destinations. The proposed mathematical formulation also considers planning extra stops for non-canceled trains to transport the disrupted passengers, which were supposed to travel on the canceled services, to their pre-planned destinations. Other constraints deal with seat capacity limitation, track capacity, and some robustness measures under uncertainty of disruption durations. We propose different approaches to compute advanced train dispatching decisions under a dynamic and stochastic optimization environment. A series of numerical experiments based on a part of “Beijing–Shanghai” high-speed railway line is carried out to verify the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed model and methods.
Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis Alters Lateral Compartment Contact Mechanics under Simulated Pivoting Maneuvers: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Marom Niv , Jahandar Hamidreza , Fraychineaud Thomas J. , Zayyad Zaid A. , Ouanezar Hervé , Hurwit Daniel , Zhu Andrew , Wickiewicz Thomas L. , Pearle Andrew D. , Imhauser Carl W. , Nawabi Danyal H.
Published: July 2021

Background:

There is concern that utilization of lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) in conjunction with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) may disturb lateral compartment contact mechanics and contribute to joint degeneration.

Hypothesis:

ACLR augmented with LET will alter lateral compartment contact mechanics in response to simulated pivoting maneuvers.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Loads simulating a pivot shift were applied to 7 cadaveric knees (4 male; mean age, 39 ± 12 years; range, 28-54 years) using a robotic manipulator. Each knee was tested with the ACL intact, sectioned, reconstructed (via patellar tendon autograft), and, finally, after augmenting ACLR with LET (using a modified Lemaire technique) in the presence of a sectioned anterolateral ligament and Kaplan fibers. Lateral compartment contact mechanics were measured using a contact stress transducer. Outcome measures were anteroposterior location of the center of contact stress (CCS), contact force from anterior to posterior, and peak and mean contact stress.

Results:

On average, augmenting ACLR with LET shifted the lateral compartment CCS anteriorly compared with the intact knee and compared with ACLR in isolation by a maximum of 5.4 ± 2.3 mm ( P < .001) and 6.0 ± 2.6 mm ( P < .001), respectively. ACLR augmented with LET also increased contact force anteriorly on the lateral tibial plateau compared with the intact knee and compared with isolated ACLR by a maximum of 12 ± 6 N ( P = .001) and 17 ± 10 N ( P = .002), respectively. Compared with ACLR in isolation, ACLR augmented with LET increased peak and mean lateral compartment contact stress by 0.7 ± 0.5 MPa ( P = .005) and by 0.17 ± 0.12 ( P = .006), respectively, at 15° of flexion.

Conclusion:

Under simulated pivoting loads, adding LET to ACLR anteriorized the CCS on the lateral tibial plateau, thereby increasing contact force anteriorly. Compared with ACLR in isolation, ACLR augmented with LET increased peak and mean lateral compartment contact stress at 15° of flexion.

Clinical Relevance:

The clinical and biological effect of increased anterior loading of the lateral compartment after LET merits further investigation. The ability of LET to anteriorize contact stress on the lateral compartment may be useful in knees with passive anterior subluxation of the lateral tibia.
Thulium laser vapo-enucleation treatment for prostates >100 cc following urinary retention
Authors: Patel Sheena , Khan Masood A
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Practical advantages of Thulium in the endoscopic treatment of BPH include its technical versatility, precision and safety, offering reduced need for haemostasis and risk of injury. Evidence has shown Holmium laser to be effective in the treatment of chronic retention, however no studies address the use of Thulium laser for larger prostates after urinary retention.

Objectives:

We have selected this group in our retrospective analysis on the efficacy of Thulium laser vapo-enucleation for men with both urinary retention and large prostate volumes greater than 100 cc.

Methods:

We analysed a 10-year single centre operation database of 740 Thulium vapo-enucleation of prostates. An inclusion of 47 living patients with prostates over 100 cc who have undergone the procedure following urinary retention secondary to bladder outflow obstruction (BOO) from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Patients were sub grouped into Group 1: 100–149 cc and Group 2: >150 cc.

Results:

Number of patients in sub groups 1 ( n = 27) and 2 ( n = 20) had mean prostate volumes of 116 and 173 cc respectively, with the largest measuring 234 cc. Mean resected volumes were 26 g (range 15–50.5 g) and 28 g (range 2–57 g). The overall trial without catheter (TWOC) pass rate for all patients in our series was 96% with comparable results between the two groups. Overall known early and late complication rates for all patients was 17% (UTI 13%, urosepsis 2%, AUR 2%) and 12.5% (failure 5%, OAB symptoms 5%, significant haematuria requiring surgical intervention 2.5%) respectively. Success of surgery was 96%, with an average follow-up of 5 months and no re-referrals for lower urinary tract symptoms following discharge.

Conclusion:

We show the use of Thulium laser vapo-enucleation to be safe and effective in the treatment of retention for large prostates. Results have demonstrated signs of long-term efficacy with a low failure rate.
Engaging girls with disabilities through cellphilming: Reflections on participatory visual research as a means of countering violence in the Global South
Authors: Nguyen Xuan Thuy , Gonick Marnina , Bui Tuyen
Published: July 2021

Despite the fact that most countries have ratified the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child, girls with disabilities experience multiple forms of violence and oppression. Using a critical approach to arts-based research, we argue that while disabled girls experience multiple vulnerabilities due to the structural conditions which exposed them to violence, the use of participatory visual methods allowed them to reframe their stories. This article discusses the implications for reconceptualizing diverse childhoods in relation to methodologies for empowering disabled girls.
An algorithm for trajectory planning of complex surface parts for laser cladding remanufacturing
Authors: Liu Jinduo , Sun Wenlei , Huang Yong
Published: July 2021

This paper aims to solve the problem of laser cladding for complex parts, a trajectory planning method for complex parts is proposed. First, the part model is transformed into stereolithography (STL) files, the plane groups are established where the spacing of plane groups is determined by the overlap ratio, and the direction is perpendicular to the laser scanning. Further, to obtain the excellent cladding performance, a search algorithm based on the height error of adjacent cladding is proposed to select effective points. After this, adjacent points are clustered to a dataset according to the relative position that decided by the angle. Meanwhile, the position and the attitude of all points are calculated by the geometrical characteristics and then stored. The cooperate work of positioner and robot is adopted, the attitude of the current point is adjusted using the positioner, that is, the molten pool of the current point is in a horizontal state, which can ensure the forming accuracy of curved parts after cladding. Finally, the cladding experiment of curved surface parts is carried out. The results of the analysis showed that the coating had a smooth surface and a compact structure without defects. This method can be applied in other curved parts.
Advances in aerodynamic, structural design and test technology of variable geometry turbines
Authors: Gao Jie , Liu Yu , Zheng Qun , Liang Chen
Published: July 2021

The variable geometry turbine is one of the technical means to effectively improve the part-load performance, part-load condition stability and manoeuvrability of gas turbines, aeroengines or even turbochargers. However, the design of the variable geometry turbine is very difficult, and the decrease in efficiency offsets some of the engine cycle benefits caused by turbine variable geometry. Therefore, it is very necessary to carry out research on variable geometry turbine technology so that the technology can be successfully applied to various types of gas turbine engines as soon as possible. This paper summarizes and analyzes the recent advances in the field of aerodynamic, structural design and test of variable geometry turbines. This review covers the following topics that are important for variable geometry turbine designs: (1) flow mechanisms and aerodynamic characteristics, (2) wide-condition aerodynamic design method for turbine blades, (3) variable vane turning design method, (4) structural design technology of variable vane system and (5) aerodynamic characteristics and reliability test technology for variable geometry turbines. The emphasis is placed on the variable vane turning design method. We also present our own insights regarding the current research trends and the prospects for future developments.
Social movements and exchanges: Sketch of a theory
Authors: Somma Nicolás M
Published: July 2021

Using social exchange theory, this article presents a new theory for understanding the strategic choices made by social movement leaders—the “movement exchanges” theory. It looks at how leaders engage in exchanges of valued rewards with constituencies, institutional political players, bystander publics, and voluntary organizations. Leaders receive from these players important rewards (like committed activists, political leverage, and resources) for achieving movement goals. In turn, leaders make strategic choices (expressed in frames, tactics, targets, and claims) that other players find rewarding, favoring persistent exchanges across time. By considering movements’ simultaneous exchanges with several players, the theory makes sense of choices that remain puzzling for major movement theories. It also blends strategic behavior with culture (in the form of utopias, ideology, and emotions) but does not require the maximizing assumption of the homo economicus. I use the case of the contemporary Chilean student movement to illustrate the theory.
The Establishment of a Construction Union-Based Member Assistance Program: An Interview With Kyle Zimmer
Authors: Jimenez Christopher
Published: July 2021

Kyle Zimmer is the health and safety director and Members Assistance Program director of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 478, which represents operating engineers in Connecticut. Mr. Zimmer successfully gained support from union leadership and employers in initiating a union-based member assistance program to address mental health, suicide, and substance use among his members and their families. The member assistance program is helping to change the culture of the workplace by decreasing stigma and making it easier for workers to seek out treatment for substance use disorders and mental health issues. The program has been effective in getting workers quick access to treatment while also establishing a peer network for continued sobriety and recovery support. In this interview, Mr. Zimmer explains the operational challenges of creating such a program and how he was able to overcome the challenges to create a successful member assistance program.
Primary and Specialist-Level Palliative Care during the spring 2020 COVID-19 Surge: A Single-Center Experience in the Bronx
Authors: Zhang Kaleena , Shi Marc , Powell Tia , Chuang Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic surge necessitated a rapid increase in provision of goals of care communication for patients with respiratory failure and high risk of death. We aimed to describe the outcomes and incidence of code status changes for mechanically ventilated patients in an acute care hospital after deploying strategies to enhance primary palliative care, including provision of goals of care communication scripts to front-line physicians.

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study including all patients admitted with COVID-19 disease and requiring mechanical ventilation during a 2-week period in March and April of 2020.

Results:

Of the 440 total patients, 327 (74.3%) died. 162 patients received a documented attempt at cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and only 4 (2.5%) of them survived. No patient above the age of 64 survived a CPR attempt. On admission, 404 patients (92.8%) were Full Code. 165 patients (37.5%) had a code status change. Almost half of the patients (n = 219) had a palliative care consult. Patients with a palliative care consult were more likely to have a code status change (56.6% v. 18.6%, χ2 = 68.0, p < 0.01).

Discussion:

Mechanically ventilated patients had a high mortality, and CPR did not result in survival to discharge in patients over 65. Palliative care specialists are needed to guide goals of care discussions during the COVID-19 pandemic, as there are numerous barriers to equipping primary care teams to lead such discussions. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the vital role of palliative care in disaster response.
The Structure of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20): A Meta-Analytic Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Schroeders Ulrich , Kubera Fiona , Gnambs Timo
Published: July 2021

Alexithymia is defined as the inability of persons to describe their emotional states, to identify the feelings of others, and a utilitarian type of thinking. The most popular instrument to assess alexithymia is the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). Despite its widespread use, an ongoing controversy pertains to its internal structure. The TAS-20 was originally constructed to capture three different factors, but several studies suggested different factor solutions, including bifactor models and models with a method factor for the reversely keyed items. The present study examined the dimensionality of the TAS-20 using summary data of 88 samples from 62 studies (total N = 69,722) with meta-analytic structural equation modeling. We found support for the originally proposed three-dimensional solution, whereas more complex models produced inconsistent factor loadings. Because a major source of misfit stems from translated versions, the results are discussed with respect to generalizations across languages and cultural contexts.
A Review of Screened-Out Families and Child Protective Services Involvement: A Missed Opportunity to Prevent Future Maltreatment With Community-Based Services
Authors: Simon James D. , Gandarilla Ocampo María , Drake Brett , Jonson-Reid Melissa
Published: July 2021

The objective of this article is to frame, understand, and draw implications from existing research on families screened out by child protective services (CPS) after a referral alleging child maltreatment. We review descriptive and outcome data together with emerging intervention research amidst a developing consensus that the current reactive role of CPS should be supplemented by supportive and preventative services that primarily address poverty. State-level data indicate that screened-out families are at high risk of re-referral and similar to higher-risk families reported to CPS. Intervention research is scant and mixed, but there is indication that providing community-based services may reduce future CPS involvement. Considering that screened-out referrals present an opportunity to prevent future maltreatment, CPS should identify and collaboratively engage screened-out families in community-based services. More research on the outcomes of these community responses is needed to identify best practices related to engagement and service provision.
OCT retinal angiography features in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A pilot study
Authors: Iacono Pierluigi , Da Pozzo Stefano , Bedendo Alberto , Arrigo Alessandro , Parravano Mariacristina , Varano Monica , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the superficial (SCP) and deep retinal capillary plexus (DCP) by mean of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in treatment-naïve patients affected by rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods:

Between March 2019 and January 2020, patients with recent diagnosis of “definite RA” based on 2010 Rheumatoid Arthritis Classification Criteria were included in a Prospective, observational single center case-control study carried out at G.B. Bietti Foundation. Data were compared with those of 16 healthy age- and sex-matched subjects. Values of the vessel density (VD) of SCP and DCP, central foveal thickness (CFT), foveal avascular zone (FAZ) were collected by mean of OCTA. Main outcome measure was the VD alteration of SCP and DCP in treatment-naïve RA-patients.

Results:

No difference in age, sex-distribution, best-corrected visual acuity, CFT was registered between the two groups. OCTA data analysis showed in RA-patients a statistically significant reduction in the VD in the mean global area, inner ring, especially in the superior quadrant of the SCP. A trend of VD reduction was also registered in temporal, nasal, and inferior quadrants, respectively, although it did not reach a statistically significant value. Assessment of VD of DCP and FAZ area did not evidence any difference among the groups.

Conclusions:

OCTA allows to highlight the vascular remodeling of the retinal microcirculation in RA-patients, even in early stages of the disease, demonstrating a reduction of VD. Outcomes of the current investigation can provide new insight in the pathogenetic mechanism of RA and extend the potential applications of this diagnostic tool.
Hip hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of femoral neck fractures in dialysis patients
Authors: Lee Ryan , Lee Danny , Heyer Jessica H , Richards Stephen , Hughes Alice J , Schumer Grace B , Shincovich Christina I , Pandarinath Rajeev
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

This study sought to delineate the postoperative outcomes in dialysis patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty (HHA) for the treatment of femoral neck fractures (FNF) in order to better optimise pre- and postoperative management and minimise short-term morbidity and mortality rates.

Methods:

16,955 patients who had undergone HHA for femoral neck fractures from 2005 to 2018 were isolated from a multi-institutional surgical registry, of which 343 (2.0%) were on dialysis and 16,612 (98.0%) were not. The cohorts were identified/analysed for differences in their comorbidities, demographic factors, and 30-day postoperative complications using Fischer’s exact tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests. Coarsened exact matching (CEM) was implemented in order to control for baseline difference in demographics and comorbidities. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the impact of dialysis as an independent risk factor for various complications, including reoperations, readmissions, and mortality.

Results:

Upon CEM-matching (L1-statistic <0.001), weighted multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated dialysis to be an independent risk factor for minor complications (OR 3.051, p  < 0.001), pneumonia (OR 3.943, p  < 0.001), urinary tract infections (UTIs) (OR 2.684, p  < 0.001), major complications (OR 1.892, p  < 0.001), unplanned intubation (OR 2.555, p  = 0.047), cardiac arrest (OR 11.897, p  < 0.001), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), (OR 2.610, p  = 0.049), and mortality (OR 2.960, p  < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Dialysis independently increased the risk for unplanned intubation, cardiac arrest, blood transfusions, pneumonia, DVT, and mortality. In communicating postoperative expectations, surgeons should aim to clarify the patients’ preferences and potential resuscitation designations prior to surgical intervention due to the increased risk of serious complications. A lower threshold of suspicion for DVT in this population is reasonable. Identifying high-risk patient populations that may experience increased rates of complications, with the ensuing financial expenditures, due to medical complexity rather than subpar management may help providers avoid penalties in caring for these patients.
Catheterization of PICC through a superficial femoral vein for patients with superior vena cava syndrome using ECG positioning and ultrasound-guided technologies
Authors: Xiao Weizhu , Lin Qiuju , Chen Shuping , Li Shanshan , Lin Cuifen , Su Shaoyan , You Xiaofang
Published: July 2021

Objective:

We herein demonstrate the efficacy of PICC placement through a superficial femoral vein in patients with superior vena cava syndrome using ultrasound guidance and electrocardiographic localization. The treatment of PICC disconnection was also discussed.

Methods:

The study enrolled 51 patients with superior vena cava syndrome. Ultrasound-guided technology and ECG positioning technology are employed to help these patients in catheterization. The puncture time, the number of punctures, and catheter tip position were recorded. The patient was followed up for at least 2 years. The complications and treatment during follow-up were recorded.

Result:

The average puncture time was 32.13 ± 3.91 min. A total of 49 patients were successfully punctured once, while 2 patients failed in the first puncture. The main reason for puncture failure is that the inability of a guide wire to pass through. After the nurse removed the needle and pressed the puncture point until no rebleeding occurred, the puncture above the original puncture point was successful. X-ray examination revealed that the catheter tip was located in the inferior vena cava, above the diaphragm, near the right atrium. The success rate of catheterization was 100%. The visual analog scale (VAS) score was (2.44 ± 0.73) at the time of puncture, which was tolerable during the operation, and the patient did not complain of obvious pain following the operation. One patient developed complications of broken tube half a year after the puncture. Interventional physicians utilized angiography to locate the broken catheter.

Conclusion:

It is safe and feasible to place PICC through a superficial femoral vein under ultrasound combined with ECG positioning technology in patients with superior vena cava syndrome.
Dual-band THz antenna with SNG loads for biosensing and early skin cancer detection with Fano response: A numerical study
Authors: Poorgholam-Khanjari Shima , Zarrabi Ferdows B
Published: July 2021

THz spectrum is one of the safest areas of light for the body which can be considered in biomedical sensing applications in the human body and can be utilized for high sensitivity detection. In this paper, a THz antenna with a single negative (SNG) load is developed for early cancer detection application. The SNG load is useful to increase the gain and efficiency of the antenna. The primary antenna has a circular slot on the ground plane. Metamaterial element is placed on the cylindrical dielectric. The total size of the antenna is 400 × 400 μm 2 and the loss-less quartz substrate is used to design the proposed antenna. In addition, the SNG load provides dual-band characteristics, and the proposed antenna covers 0.85 and 1 THz with high directivity and efficiency which is more than 90%. The achieved results proved that the antenna has higher sensitivity at a lower frequency. Moreover, we showed the proposed dual-band antenna can be used to increase the sensing accuracy of the device to detect the progress of cancer in a specific sample.
Filmmaking practice and animals’ geographies: attunement, perspective, narration
Authors: Turnbull Jonathon , Searle Adam
Published: July 2021

After being captured from the streets of Moscow, Laika was the first living creature to be sent into Earth’s orbit by the USSR in 1957. The 2019 film, Space Dogs, tells the story of Laika’s spectral return to Moscow, and searches for her ghosts in the city’s street dogs 60 years later. Combining archival material with contemporary documentary footage ‘filmed at dog’s level’, the film reanimates Laika’s spectral afterlives. Drawing on a series of in-depth conversations with the film’s directors, writers, and director of photography, we provide critical reflections on filmmaking practice for animals’ geographies. We offer a three-part typology which frames these contributions: attunement, which focuses on the affordances of filmmaking practice for attuning to the lives of nonhuman lifeworlds; perspective, which documents how filmmaking practice allows for more-than-human urban space to be viewed from alternative vantage points; and narration, which enables filmmakers to experiment with affective modes of representing animals’ lives, offering audiences alternative spatiotemporal experiences. Finally, we reflect on the potentials of filmmaking as a fruitful practice, method, and output for animals’ geographers.
Deteriorated regional calf microcirculation measured by contrast-free MRI in patients with diabetes mellitus and relation with physical activity
Authors: Zheng Jie , Sorensen Christopher , Li Ran , An Hongyu , Hildebolt Charles F , Zayed Mohamed A , Mueller Michael J , Hastings Mary K
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To evaluate regional calf muscle microcirculation in people with diabetes mellitus (DM) with and without foot ulcers, compared to healthy control people without DM, using contrast-free magnetic resonance imaging methods.

Methods:

Three groups of subjects were recruited: non-DM controls, DM, and DM with foot ulcers (DM + ulcer), all with ankle brachial index (ABI) > 0.9. Skeletal muscle blood flow (SMBF) and oxygen extraction fraction (SMOEF) in calf muscle were measured at rest and during a 5-min isometric ankle plantarflexion exercise. Subjects completed the Yale physical activity survey.

Results:

The exercise SMBF (ml/min/100 g) of the medial gastrocnemius muscle were progressively impaired: 63.7 ± 18.9 for controls, 42.9 ± 6.7 for DM, and 36.2 ± 6.2 for DM + ulcer, p < 0.001. Corresponding exercise SMOEF was the lowest in DM + ulcers (0.48 ± 0.09). Exercise SMBF in the soleus muscle was correlated moderately with the Yale physical activity survey ( r = 0.39, p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Contrast-free MR imaging identified progressively impaired regional microcirculation in medial gastrocnemius muscles of people with DM with and without foot ulcers. Exercise SMBF in the medial gastrocnemius muscle was the most sensitive index and was associated with HbA1c. Lower exercise SMBF in the soleus muscle was associated with lower Yale score.
Cardiovascular risk in patients with spondyloarthritis and association with anti-TNF drugs
Authors: Chan Shirley Chiu Wai , Teo Cheong Kay , Li Philip Hei , Lau Kui Kai , Lau Chak Sing , Chung Ho Yin
Published: July 2021

Background:

Cardiovascular (CVS) diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide and patients with rheumatic diseases have an increased CVS. CVS risk factors and CVS events are common in spondyloarthritis (SpA). Delineating the CVS risk in patients with SpA and identifying modifiable risk factors would be useful.

Methods:

Patients with SpA and patients with non-specific back pain (NSBP) were identified in rheumatology and orthopedics clinics, respectively. Clinical information and CVS events were retrieved. Baseline characteristics and incidence rates of CVS events were compared between two groups of patients using an age- and sex-matched cohort. Propensity score adjustment and Cox regression analysis were performed to determine the CVS risk associated with SpA.

Results:

A total of 5046 patients (SpA 2616 and NSBP 2430) were included from eight centers. Over 56,484 person-years of follow up, 160 strokes, 84 myocardial infarction (MI) and 262 major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were identified. Hypercholesterolemia was more prevalent in SpA (SpA 34.2%, NSBP 28.7%, p < 0.01). Crude incidence rates of MACE and stroke were higher in SpA patients. SpA was associated with a higher risk of MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 1.70; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.29–2.26; p < 0.01] and cerebrovascular events (HR 1.50; 95% CI 1.08–2.07; p = 0.02). SpA patients with anti-TNF use had a reduced risk of MACE (HR 0.37, 95%CI 0.17–0.80, p = 0.01) and cerebrovascular events (HR 0.21, 95%CI 0.06–0.78, p = 0.02) compared with SpA patients without anti-TNF use.

Conclusion:

SpA is an independent CVS risk factor. Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) drugs were associated with a reduced CVS risk in these patients.
Resolution of severe secondary mitral valve regurgitation following aortic valve replacement in infective endocarditis
Authors: Friess Jan Oliver , Bruelisauer Thomas , Hurni Samuel , Pasic Miralem , Erdoes Gabor , Eberle Balthasar
Published: July 2021

We present the case of a patient with infective endocarditis anesthetized for replacement of severely regurgitant aortic valve. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography revealed a new diagnosis of severe secondary mitral regurgitation. After aortic valve replacement and tricuspid valve repair, severe mitral regurgitation resolved rapidly without any intervention. In multivalvular disease, instant spontaneous resolution of secondary mitral regurgitation is possible after surgical correction of an aortic regurgitation causing left ventricular volume overload.
Self-coding: A method to assess semantic validity and bias when coding open-ended responses
Authors: Glazier Rebecca A. , Boydstun Amber E. , Feezell Jessica T.
Published: July 2021

Open-ended survey questions can provide researchers with nuanced and rich data, but content analysis is subject to misinterpretation and can introduce bias into subsequent analysis. We present a simple method to improve the semantic validity of a codebook and test for bias: a “self-coding” method where respondents first provide open-ended responses and then self-code those responses into categories. We demonstrated this method by comparing respondents’ self-coding to researcher-based coding using an established codebook. Our analysis showed significant disagreement between the codebook’s assigned categorizations of responses and respondents’ self-codes. Moreover, this technique uncovered instances where researcher-based coding disproportionately misrepresented the views of certain demographic groups. We propose using the self-coding method to iteratively improve codebooks, identify bad-faith respondents, and, perhaps, to replace researcher-based content analysis.
Be Yourself: The Relative Importance of Personal and Social Norms for Adolescents’ Self-Presentation on Instagram
Authors: Zillich Arne Freya , Riesmeyer Claudia
Published: July 2021

This article examines the relative importance of personal, descriptive, and injunctive norms for adolescents’ self-presentation on Instagram and analyzes the role of proximal and distal reference groups in norm negotiation. Based on 27 semi-structured interviews with German Instagram users between 14 and 19 years old, we identified four types of adolescents’ self-presentation that differ in terms of norms and referent others: authentic, self-confident, self-staged, and audience-oriented self-presentation. In addition, our study demonstrates that adolescents engage in reflective norm breaches when coping with conflicting self-presentation norms. These results highlight the crucial role of both adolescents themselves and their proximal and distal reference groups for norm negotiation.
Climate Change Knowledge and Political Identity in Australia
Authors: Tranter Bruce
Published: July 2021

National data from the 2018 Australian Survey of Social Attitudes show that knowledge of climate change is positively associated with the scientific consensus position on anthropogenic climate change. Responses to factual quiz questions that include climate trigger terms such as “greenhouse gas” or reference to increased ocean temperature and acidification are influenced by one’s political party identification, with Liberal and National party identifiers tending to score lower than Labor partisans on climate knowledge scales. Yet, responses to climate-related factual questions sans trigger terms are not influenced by political partisanship. Climate skeptics tend to score lower on climate knowledge scales than those who accept anthropogenic climate change, although skeptics also tend to have inflated confidence in their factual knowledge of climate change.
Incidental Finding of Squamous Cell Carcinoma on a 68Ga-DOTATATE PET Scan
Authors: Mullangi Sanjana , Lekkala Manidhar Reddy , Raghu Subramanian Charumathi , Nemer Omar , Singh Jagmeet , Kichloo Asim , Moftakhar Bahar
Published: July 2021

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a relatively rare entity; however, the incidence and prevalence of these tumors are increasing, likely attributed to improved diagnostic accuracy. The diagnosis of suspected NETs is facilitated by clinical symptoms, laboratory test abnormalities such as elevated chromogranin-A, and other diagnostic modalities such as the use of computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and biopsy. The expression of high levels of somatostatin receptors in NETs enables the use of a specialized PET scan using the radiolabeled somatostatin analogues 68Ga-DOTATATE. The sensitivity and specificity of 68Ga-DOTATATE PET is very high for the diagnosis of NETs, but the specificity decreases especially with no clear symptoms and with only borderline elevated tumor markers. We present a case of a suspected NET, which was initially diagnosed as a metastatic NET by virtue of a positive 68Ga-DOTATATE PET scan; however, on biopsy it was revealed to be a squamous cell carcinoma originating from the head and neck.
Predictors of a Top-Box Patient Experience: A Retrospective Observational Study of HCAHPS Data at a Safety Net Institution
Authors: Indovina Kimberly A. , Keniston Angela , Manchala Venkata , Burden Marisha
Published: July 2021

Hospitals commonly seek to improve patient experience as measured by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, yet there are limited data to guide improvement efforts. The HCAHPS survey was developed for interhospital comparisons, whereas its use in intrahospital comparisons has not been validated. We sought to better understand the validity of utilizing intrahospital score comparisons and to identify the factors that may predict top-box HCAHPS scores. We performed a retrospective observational cohort study at an academic urban safety-net hospital examining 4898 HCAHPS surveys completed by hospitalized patients. We found that while most Patient-Mix Adjustment factors for which HCAHPS scores are adjusted were associated with top-box scores on intrahospital comparisons, few additional variables were associated with top-box scores. Further, HCAHPS questions pertaining to nurse and doctor communication were highly correlated with overall hospital rating, suggesting that communication-related factors may influence a patient’s hospital experience more strongly than do administrative factors.
Optimization of multi- period empty container repositioning and renting in CHINA RAILWAY Express based on container sharing strategy
Authors: Tang Yinying , Chen Si , Feng Yuan , Zhu Xinglong
Published: July 2021

Background

With the steady growth of trade between China and Europe, the number of trains in CHINA RAILWAY Express has steadily increased under the Belt and Road Initiative. By the end of 2019, more than 21,000 trains have been operated. However, in the development of CHINA RAILWAY Express, the cost of empty container transportation and leasing remains high. So, it is necessary to put forward the strategy of container sharing.

Aim

Through the optimization of empty container transfer and rent under container sharing, this study aim to reduce the operation cost and put forward the strategy of container sharing.

Method

Considering the dynamic characteristics of empty container transportation in reality, this paper constructs a multi-period empty container transportation optimization model with the lowest total cost and the stability of the network, combining with the container sharing strategy. Lyapunov optimization method is used to transform the complex problem into a single period optimization problem, and then genetic algorithm is used to solve the model.

Result

Based on the analysis of 13 existing regular train companies, the results show that the model can effectively improve the utilization rate of containers and reduce the cost in the decision-making period. Based on the results and parameters analysis, some suggestions are put forward to optimize the empty container sharing and effectively realize of container sharing.
Correlation between plasma ZAG and adiponectin in older adults: gender modification and frailty specificity
Authors: Lee Ya-Ping , Chang Chin-Hao , Chen Chin-Ying , Wen Chiung-Jung , Huang Hsien-Liang , Peng Jen-Kuei , Wang Yu-Ting , Chen Ching-Yu , Tsai Jaw-Shiun
Published: July 2021

Background

Adiponectin and zinc alpha2-glycoprotein (ZAG) are associated with frailty. This study aims to further examine the association of adiponectin with ZAG.

Methods

Outpatients aged 65 years or older with chronic disease followed up in a hospital-based program were recruited for a comprehensive geriatric assessment. We excluded outpatients who were bedridden, residing in a nursing home, with expected life expectancy less than 6 months, or with severe hearing or communication impairment. Plasma ZAG and adiponectin levels were measured. Association between plasma ZAG and adiponectin levels was analyzed by univariate and multivariable linear regression analyses.

Results

A total of 189 older adults were enrolled (91 men and 98 women, mean age: 77.2 ± 6.1 years). Log-transformed plasma ZAG level was 1.82 ± 0.11 μg/mL, and it was significantly higher in men than that in women (1.85 ± 0.12 vs 1.79 ± 0.10 μg/mL,P = .0006). Log-transformed plasma adiponectin level was 1.00 ± 0.26 μg/mL, and there was no significant gender difference (P = .195). Overall, plasma ZAG level positively correlated with plasma adiponectin level in the multivariable linear regression analysis (P = .0085). The gender-specific significance, however, was less clear: this relationship was significant in men (P = .0049) but not in women (P = .2072). To be more specific by frailty phenotype components, plasma adiponectin was positively correlated with weight loss (P = .0454) and weakness (P = .0451).

Conclusions

Both of ZAG and adiponectin may be potential frailty biomarkers. Plasma ZAG is an independent factor of plasma adiponectin, especially in older male adults.
Differential disease phenotypes and progression in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis: comparative analyses of single Canadian and Saudi Arabian clinics
Authors: Alluqmani M. , Roda W. , Qqrmli M. , Blevins G. , Giuliani F. , Power C.
Published: July 2021

Objective

Relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS) phenotypes differ widely although the variables contributing to this heterogeneity remain uncertain. To assess geographic and ethnic effects on RR-MS phenotypes, we investigated RR-MS patients in Canada and Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients followed in two MS Clinics was performed in Medina, Saudi Arabia and Edmonton, Canada. Demographic and clinical data were collected for each patient and analyzed using univariable and multivariable statistics. Univariable and multivariable linear regression were used to distinguish the significant clinical and demographic features and neurological systems associated with the change in expanded disability status scale (EDSS) between clinical assessments.

Results

Patients with treated RR-MS were recruited (n = 51, Saudi; n = 47, Canada) although the disease duration was longer in the Canadian cohort (5.6 ± 2.2 yr.) compared to the Saudi cohort (4.4 ± 1.4 yr.) (P < 0.05), annual relapse rate and EDSS change were higher in the Saudi cohort (P < 0.05). Infratentorial lesion-associated presentation differed (Canada, n = 23; Saudi, n = 13) among groups (P < 0.05). Spinal cord lesions on MRI were more frequently detected in Canadian (n = 23) compared to Saudi (n = 1) patients (P < 0.05). Patients within the Saudi cohort displayed a significantly greater change in Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) between first and second assessments.

Conclusions

Despite differences in geographic location, ethnicity, and predominance of infratentorial lesions in the Canadian group, the RR-MS phenotypes were similar although the Saudi cohort displayed a more severe disease course.