bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A modelling framework for finite strain magnetoviscoelasticity
Authors: Nedjar Boumediene
Published: September 2019

The main objective of this contribution is the theoretical modelling of magnetizable materials that exhibit viscoelastic properties. The current state of the art in the mathematical modelling of non-linear magnetomechanics in deformable media can be easily integrated within the unified framework of continuum thermodynamics, which is crucial in setting the convenient forms for the constitutive laws and evolution equations. Owing to the soft nature of the materials we have in mind, the finite strain range is adopted a priori and, in this first approach, only isotropic materials are considered. We adopt the currently well-accepted multiplicative split of the deformation gradient, which, moreover, gives rise to an intermediate configuration. Herein, the novelty resides in the fact that the magnetic field vectors are transported onto the aforementioned intermediate configuration and, therefore, can be implicitly decomposed. The proposed formulation is based on the magnetic induction as the main independent variable for the magnetic part of the problem. An alternative formulation based on the magnetic field as main independent variable can easily be deduced, but this latter will not be considered in this paper for the sake of clarity. A very simple model example that agrees with the laws of thermodynamics is proposed for the purpose of demonstration to study some phenomena qualitatively.
Learning From Coalitions’ Efforts to Promote Equity and Justice
Authors: Christens Brian D. , Butterfoss Frances Dunn , Minkler Meredith , Wolff Tom , Francisco Vincent T. , Kegler Michelle C.
Published: September 2019

Coalitions and collaboratives are working to address many of the most pressing contemporary health and social issues. The articles in this special issue provide numerous insights into these complex collaborative processes across different contexts and focal issues. All emphasize and scrutinize the strategies that groups are using in their work. These strategies seek to navigate not only conventional notions of effectiveness but also the challenges of pursuing greater equity and justice. In this concluding article, we distill some of the key insights from these articles as a collective. This special issue on collaborating for equity and justice can serve as a launching point for new efforts by coalitions and researchers pursuing policy, systems, and structural changes, particularly those intent on addressing root causes of health and social disparities.
Protein Tetratricopeptide Repeat and the Companion Non-tetratricopeptide Repeat Helices: Bioinformatic Analysis of Interhelical Interactions
Authors: Barik Sailen
Published: September 2019

The tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) of proteins consists of a 34-amino acid, alpha-helical motif that comprises a pattern of small and large hydrophobic residues, leading to a recognizable signature sequence. Structural and functional studies have documented that tandem TPRs form a superhelix that interacts with client molecules through strategically placed amino acids. Interestingly, most of the known TPRs are flanked by alpha-helices that lack the TPR signature but often appear as a continuation of the TPR superhelix. The exact role and specificity of these TPR-accompanying non-TPR helices have remained a mystery. Here, starting with TPR proteins of known structure, bioinformatic analyses were conducted on these helices, which revealed that they are diverse in sequence, lacking a clear consensus. However, they display significant atomic contacts with the nearest TPR helix and, to some extent, with the next TPR helix over. The majority of these contacts do not use the signature residues of the TPR helix but rather involve hydrophobic side chains on the facing sides. Thus, compared with the TPR helices, these companion helices are generic in nature, and seem to serve as relatively passive gatekeepers, leaving the terminal TPR helices to encode the signature residues that interact with cognate clients.
A dyadic approach to understanding safer sex behavior in intimate heterosexual relationships
Authors: Isaacs Corey , Skakoon-Sparling Shayna , Kohut Taylor , Fisher William A
Published: September 2019

This study applied a dyadic approach to condom-use research. Partners from 124 heterosexual couples independently completed a questionnaire assessing condom-related attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and intentions to use condoms. Results demonstrate the superiority of a dyadic approach to understanding couples’ condom-use intentions and behavior over traditional, individual-level approaches. The addition of partner effects to the model, via the actor–partner interdependence model, resulted in an increase in the variance accounted for in condom-use intentions and this dyadic model showed better fit compared to the individual-level model. The results suggest that consideration of relationship partners plays an important role in the prediction of safer sex intentions.
Broad-Ranging Nutritional Deficiencies Predict Amputation in Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Brookes John Deakin Lees , Jaya Joseph Swaminadan , Tran Henley , Vaska Ashish , Werner-Gibbings Keagan , D’Mello Andre C. , Wong Jennifer , Lemoh Chris N. , Saunder Alan C. , Yii Ming Kon
Published: September 2019

Diabetic foot ulcers present across the spectrum of nonhealing wounds, be it acute or many months duration. There is developing literature highlighting that despite this group having high caloric intake, they often lack the micronutrients essential for wound healing. This study reports a retrospective cohort of patients’ micro- and macro-nutritional state and its relationship to amputation. A retrospective cohort was observed over a 2-month period at one of Australia’s largest tertiary referral centers for diabetic foot infection and vascular surgery. Patient information, duration of ulcer, various biochemical markers of nutrition and infection, and whether the patient required amputation were collected from scanned medical records. A cohort of 48 patients with a broad-spectrum of biochemical markers was established. Average hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was 8.6%. A total of 58.7% had vitamin C deficiency, including 30.4% with severe deficiency, average 22.6 Ł} 5.8 μmol/L; 61.5% had hypoalbuminemia, average albumin 28.7 Ł} 2.5 g/L. Average vitamin B12 was 294.6 Ł} 69.6 pmol/L; 57.9% had low vitamin D, average 46.3 Ł} 8.3 nmol/L. Basic screening scores for caloric intake failed to suggest this biochemical depletion. There was a 52.1% amputation rate; biochemical depletion was associated with risk of amputation with vitamin C ( P < .01), albumin ( P = .03), and hemoglobin ( P = .01), markedly lower in patients managed with amputation than those managed conservatively. There was no relation between duration of ulceration and nutrient depletion. Patients with diabetic foot ulceration rely on multidisciplinary care to optimize their wound healing. An important but often overlooked aspect of this is nutritional state, with micronutrients being very important for the healing of complex wounds. General nutritional screening often fails to identify patients at risk of micronutrient deficiency. There is a high prevalence of vitamin deficiency in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. This presents an excellent avenue for future research to assess if aggressive nutrient replacement can improve outcomes in this cohort of patients.
Herbal Medicine for Dumping Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hong Seungcheol , Park Bongki , Noh Hyeonseok , Choi Dong-Jun
Published: September 2019

Background: Dumping syndrome is a common complication of surgical treatment of gastric cancer, but conventional therapy has limitations related to symptom care due to its structural cause and the decreased quality of life. Objectives: The objective of this review was to assess the clinical evidence for the effectiveness of herbal medicine as a treatment for dumping syndrome. Methods: A literature review was conducted using 16 databases from their inceptions to March 2018. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of herbal medicine used to treat dumping syndrome patients were included and meta-analyzed. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Results: A total of 174 dumping syndrome patients of 3 trials met all inclusion criteria. Two trials assessed the effectiveness of herbal medicine on the symptom response rate compared with conventional pharmacotherapy. Their results suggested significant effects in favor of herbal medicine (risk ratio [RR] = 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16-1.63, P = .0003, heterogeneity τ2 = 0, χ2 = 0.02, P = .88, I2 = 0%). One trial assessed its effectiveness on the improvement rate of overall symptoms compared with conventional conservative complex therapy, such as postural management, diet regulation, and counseling (RR = 1.23, 95% CI = 0.96-1.58). Conclusions: Due to the small sample size, scarcity of reported articles, and lack of quality of the current RCTs, it was concluded that the effectiveness of herbal medicine in treating dumping syndrome is unclear.
Measuring garment pressure at any point using a wearable sensor
Authors: Wang Jinfeng , Zhong Binyue , Wang Hanqi
Published: September 2019

In this article, we build an oval mechanical model at any circumference of seamless weft, founded upon the analysis of body shape in order to analyze the curvature radius at arbitrary circumference and part. Clothing pressure is built according to the Laplace equation. Depending on the elastic fabric tensile deformation, clothing pressure at any circumference was subsequently analyzed. The results demonstrate that clothing pressure increases in areas of largest body curvature, which is highest on both sides but is smallest on the body front center and back center. In addition, weft flexible fabric sensors, which are knitted silver-plated yarn into seamless underwear as pressure sensors, are designed to test the relationship between sensor’s resistance and the clothing commodious quantity in order to explore the relationship between resistance change and clothing pressure. The results show that as the size of those wearing a given garment changes, the resistance of the flexible sensor in the clothing will also change. Specifically, weight and size are associated with greater clothing pressure and higher resistance of the flexible sensor. Because clothing pressure and flexible sensor resistance are linked to the tensile tension of clothing, we have been able to determine the relationship between clothing pressure and flexible sensor resistance. This achievement is expected to provide the basis for further studies assessing the comforting pressure of seamless underwear and ease of wear.
Implementation of a Calorie Menu Labeling Policy in Public Hospitals: Study Protocol for a Multiple Case Study
Authors: Kerins Claire , Houghton Catherine , McHugh Sheena , Geaney Fiona , Toomey Elaine , Hayes Catherine , Perry Ivan J. , Kelly Colette
Published: September 2019

Background:

Promotion of good nutrition is essential for reducing the risk of chronic disease and premature death. Evidence shows menu labeling interventions should be implemented in workplaces as part of a comprehensive approach to improve employees’ dietary habits; however, implementation challenges have arisen. This article describes a protocol for a multiple case study to explore the factors that impact on implementation of a calorie menu labeling policy in Irish public hospitals.

Methods:

Using a multiple case study design, comprising four Irish acute public hospitals, this study will draw on multiple perspectives and sources of evidence (observations followed by interviews, focus groups, and documentary analysis) to allow for a comprehensive depth and breadth of inquiry. Data collection and analysis will be guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, bringing together constructs from implementation theories to understand the complexity of implementing policies. Hospitals will be categorized into high and low implementers of the policy based on quantitative data obtained from structured observations. Using framework analysis, within- and cross-case analyses will be performed to identify factors influencing policy implementation and to identify distinguishing patterns across high and low implementers and across hospital direct and indirect stakeholders. Strategies will be employed to ensure rigorous case study research, for example, triangulation, audit trail, reflexivity, and thick descriptions. An integrated knowledge translation approach, where researchers work with stakeholders throughout the research process, will be adopted to facilitate the translation of research into policy and practice.

Discussion:

This protocol highlights methodological insights in utilizing case study research to gain a greater understanding of the menu labeling implementation process. Study findings will be relevant to policy makers and other stakeholders involved in the rollout of such interventions and will provide a foundation to select and tailor implementation strategies to assist with scale-up of calorie menu labeling across the health service.
On the design of a novel fully compliant spherical four-bar mechanism
Authors: Parlaktaş Volkan , Tanık Engin , Tanık Çağıl Merve
Published: September 2019

In this article, a novel fully compliant spherical four-bar mechanism is introduced and its generalized design methodology is proposed. The original fully compliant mechanism lies on a plane at the free position (undeflected position); therefore, it has the advantages of ease of manufacturing, minimized parts, and no backlash. First, the mobility conditions of the mechanism are obtained. The dimensions of the mechanism are optimally calculated for maximum output rotation, while keeping the deflection of flexural hinges at an acceptable range. Using an optimization method, design tables are prepared to display the relationship between arc lengths and corresponding deflections of flexural hinges. Input–output torque relationship and stresses at compliant segments are obtained analytically. A mechanism dimensioned by this novel design method is analyzed by a finite element analysis method, and the analytical results are verified. Finally, the mechanism is manufactured and it is ensured that the deflections of the compliant segments are consistent with the theoretical results.
Study on motion performance of robot-aided passive rehabilitation exercises using novel dynamic motion planning strategy
Authors: Pan Lizheng , Song Aiguo , Duan Suolin , Shi Xianchuan
Published: September 2019

The motion rehabilitation training robot is developed to help patients with motion dysfunction recover their motor function by providing a large amount of repetitive robot-aided exercise. To achieve stable and smooth robot-aided exercises for stroke patients, a motion control method with a novel dynamic motion planning strategy is proposed. The physical state of the training limb is assessed real time during the rehabilitation exercises. The dynamic motion planning strategy is developed by employing a suitable interpolation method dynamically corresponding to the physical state of the training limb to plan a trajectory tracking system that completely utilizes different interpolation characteristics to manage the movement in accordance with the time-varying physical state of the training limb. Concurrently, a position-based impedance control is adopted to achieve compliant movement. Functional (quantitative and qualitative) and clinical experiments are conducted on a four-degree-of-freedom whole-arm manipulator upper limb rehabilitation robot to verify the effectiveness of the control method designed with the dynamic motion planning strategy. The results indicate that the proposed control strategy can exhibit better performances in terms of the stability and smoothness.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice among pharmacy professionals towards generic medicines in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Nasir Beshir B , Muhammed Oumer S , Buseir Miftah S
Published: September 2019

Background

Suboptimal knowledge and attitude of healthcare professionals about generics reduce utilization of these drugs. The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge gap, attitude and practice among pharmacy professionals toward generic medicine in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Method

The study was conducted in Addis Ababa from 10 April to10 July 2018 among 424 pharmacy professionals. Self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data were analyzed by using statistical package for social sciences version 24 and multi-variable binary logistic regression was used to identify predictors of the dependent variables.

Result

Majority (77.1%) of the participants claimed that they have had knowledge on the concept of generic medicine. Knowledge was significantly associated with participants’ educational qualification and work experience. More than half (55%) of them have an attitude that brand medicines are of higher quality compared to generics and 37.6% of them believe generic medicines are less effective than brand medicines. About 80% of the participants claimed that locally manufactured generics are cheaper than imported generics. Affordability to the customer, cost effectiveness of generic medicine and consumer preference/demand were the commonest reasons to dispense generic medicines.

Conclusion

Though vast majority of the study participants have had knowledge on the concept of generic medicine, their attitude and practice seem suboptimal that will influence utilization of generic products.
Mediating role of the perceived benefits of using a medication safety system in the relationship between transformational leadership and the medication-error management climate
Authors: Kim Myoung Soo , Seok Ji Hye , Kim Bo Min
Published: September 2019

Background

Evidence indicates that applying technology to medication safety will improve the quality of medical services and enhance the medication-error management climate. The perceived benefits of using the medication safety system are an important factor for adopting a system.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mediating role of the perceived benefits of using a medication safety system in the relationship between transformational leadership and the medication-error management climate.

Methods

A total of 153 staff nurses from 11 secondary or tertiary hospitals in Korea were included. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, analysis of variance, Pearson correlations and multiple regression analyses were used.

Results

Transformational leadership was significantly correlated with the perceived benefits of the system use ( r = .17, p = .032) and medication-error management climate ( r = .55, p < .001). The perceived benefit of using the medication safety system was a mediator between transformational leadership and the medication-error management climate.

Conclusions

When chief executive officers construct and implement a medication safety system in their hospitals, transformational leadership can enhance the perceived benefits of system use, which is an important factor that contributes to a positive medication-error management climate.
Reliability and sensitivity analysis for bearings considering the correlation of multiple failure modes by mixed Copula function
Authors: Wang Xingang , Wang Bingxiang , Chang Miaoxin , Li Lei
Published: September 2019

The correlation between contact fatigue failure and wear failure of rolling bearing is analyzed, and the reliability model of rolling bearing based on multi-correlation failure mode is established. Based on the improved linear fatigue cumulative damage theory and wear theory, the limit state equations of two failure modes are established, and the correlation of state functions of contact fatigue and wear failure modes is described by the mixed Copula function. The random sample data are generated by Monte Carlo method, and the unknown parameters are estimated by genetic algorithm based on the minimum deviation square criterion, then the dynamic reliability model of rolling bearing is established. The quadratic polynomial without cross-term is used as the implicit functional proxy model, then the Latin hypercube sampling method and least squares theory are employed to estimate parameters of mixed Copula function and finally, the reliability sensitivity analysis of multi-failure modes of bearing is presented by fourth-order moment estimation method. Taking a certain type of spherical roller bearing as an example, the bearing reliability analysis considering the correlation of failure modes is carried out. The results show that compared with the bearing reliability model based on the assumption of independent failure modes and the weakest link theory, the bearing reliability model based on multi-correlation failure is more consistent with the practical application.
Long-term outcomes after pollicization: a mean 11-year follow-up study
Authors: Hellevuo Camilla , Leppänen Olli V. , Kapanen Susanne , Vilkki Simo K.
Published: September 2019

This study evaluates the long-term results of pollicization for a congenitally absent or severely hypoplastic thumb. Twenty-nine patients with 34 pollicizations were divided to two groups: those with simple thumb hypoplasia (22 pollicizations) and those with radial longitudinal dysplasia (12 pollicizations). The patients were followed from 1.3 to 32 years, with a mean follow-up time of 11 years. The patients were examined clinically and radiologically, and they completed a questionnaire concerning satisfaction with appearance, function, and social interaction. The Percival score was also calculated. In both groups, grip and pinch strengths of the operated hands were inferior to the normative age-related values. Radiologically, flattening of the original metacarpal head was found in 20 out of the 34 operated hands. We found better patient satisfaction in the simple hypoplasia group than in the radial longitudinal dysplasia group. The functional outcomes and patients’ satisfaction did not correlate with the age of patients at operation.

Level of evidence: IV
Irradiation or temozolomide chemotherapy enhances anti-CD47 treatment of glioblastoma
Authors: Gholamin Sharareh , Youssef Osama A , Rafat Marjan , Esparza Rogelio , Kahn Suzana , Shahin Maryam , Giaccia Amato J , Graves Edward E , Weissman Irving , Mitra Siddhartha , Cheshier Samuel H
Published: September 2019

Irradiation and temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy are the current standard treatments for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), but they are associated with toxicity and limited efficacy. Recently, these standard therapies have been used to enhance immunotherapy against GBM. Immunotherapy using the anti-CD47 (immune checkpoint inhibitor) treatment has shown promise in treating multiple tumor types, including GBM. The goal of this current work was to test whether irradiation or TMZ chemotherapy could enhance anti-CD47 treatment against GBM. Our results showed that irradiation and TMZ each significantly enhanced anti-CD47-mediated phagocytosis of GBM cells in vitro. Furthermore, mice engrafted with human GBM that received anti-CD47 combined with focal irradiation or TMZ treatment showed a significant increase in the survival rate compared to those that received a single treatment. The tumor growth in mice that received both anti-CD47 and irradiation was significantly less than that of groups that received either anti-CD47 or focal irradiation. The results from this study may support future use of anti-CD47 treatment in combination with irradiation or chemotherapy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of GBM treatment.
Long-term carbon monoxide emission behavior of heavy-duty gas turbines: An approach for model-based monitoring and diagnostics
Authors: Lipperheide Moritz , Gassner Martin , Weidner Frank , Bernero Stefano , Wirsum Manfred
Published: September 2019

Emission measurements are a valuable source of information regarding the condition of gas turbine combustors. Aging of the hot gas path components can lead to an emission increase, which may ultimately require a readjustment of operational settings and accordingly impacts plant availability and maintenance. While NOx emissions may become crucial in high flame temperatures at full load, carbon monoxide emissions typically restrict low-load operation, which electricity markets demand more frequently due to the increasing penetration of intermittent renewable power. This paper presents a semiempirical carbon monoxide model that allows for quantifying the evolution of carbon monoxide emissions for GT24/GT26 heavy-duty gas turbines in commercial long-term operation. Input parameters to the derived carbon monoxide model are either directly measured or reconstructed by virtual measurements based on a simplified engine model. The method is developed with commissioning and operation data of three different gas turbines of GE’s GT24/GT26 fleet and validated over a total of 8.5 years of observation. Aging is accounted for by incorporating control sensor deviation and the formation of cold spots in the combustor into the semiempirical model. When these effects are taken into account, the carbon monoxide prediction is improved by up to 60% in terms of root mean square error of the log10(carbon monoxide) values compared to a benchmark case without consideration of aging.
2′-Hydroxylated 3-Deoxyanthocyanin from the Flowers of Cosmos sulphureus Cultivars
Authors: Iwashina Tsukasa , Amamiya Kotarou , Kamo Tsunashi , Kitajima Junichi , Mizuno Takayuki , Uehara Ayumi , Koizuka Nobuya
Published: September 2019

A new 3-deoxyanthocyanin was isolated from the orange flowers of Cosmos sulphureus cultivar “Diabolo,” together with known aurone, chalcone, flavone, flavonol, and flavanone. The chemical structure of 3-deoxyanthocyanin was established as 5,7,2′,4′-tetrahydroxyflavylium 4′- O-β-d-glucopyranoside by chemical and spectroscopic methods including UV, FAB MS, and 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and named as cosmonidin 4′- O-glucoside (1a). Other known flavonoids were characterized as sulfuretin 6- O-glucoside (2), butein 4′- O-glucoside (3), quercetin 3- O-glucoside (4), luteolin 7- O-glucuronide (5), and eriodictyol 7- O-glucuronide (6) by UV, liquid chromatograph - mass spectra (LC-MS), NMR, and high performance liquid chromatography comparisons with authentic samples. Anthocyanin, which 2′-position is hydroxylated, has not been reported until now. Compound (1a) was also found in other 10 C. sulphureus cultivars “Lamala Lemon,” “Sunrise,” “Dwarf Yellow,” “Cosmic Yellow,” “Carpet Gold,” “Mandarin,” “Cosmic Orange,” “Orange Flare,” “Cosmic Red,” and “Sunset.”
Production of Tetrahydrocurcumin From Curcumin by Cultured Plant Cells and Inhibitory Effects of Curcuminoids on NF-κB Activity
Authors: Shimoda Kei , Kubota Naoji , Fujitaka Yuya , Hamada Hiroki , Inoue Manami , Hamada Hatsuyuki , Yanagi Masayoshi , Onishi Tatsuya
Published: September 2019

Biotransformation of curcumin was investigated using cultured plant cells of Morus sp. Cultured Morus cells converted curcumin into dihydrocurcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin. The activity of nuclear factor-κB was inhibited by curcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin.
Epidemiologic and Outcome Analysis of Epistaxis in a Tertiary Care Center Emergency Department
Authors: Bui Roger , Doan Nicolette , Chaaban Mohamad R.
Published: September 2019

Background

The association between hypertension and recurrent epistaxis is controversial. The objective of this study is to examine the factors associated with recurrent epistaxis visits to the emergency department (ED) and establish an otolaryngology (ENT [ear, nose, and throat]) consult algorithm to optimize treatment and minimize unnecessary consultation.

Methods

A retrospective review of 100 patients presenting to the ED for epistaxis requiring ENT consult from 2013 to 2018 was conducted. Patient demographics, comorbidities, epistaxis etiology, blood pressure measurements during admission, and treatment methods were analyzed. Patient charts were reviewed for ED admissions, complications, and procedures. A consult algorithm was subsequently devised and retrospectively applied to our cohort.

Results

Patients who required more than one ED visit for epistaxis were more often males (77.8% vs 49.3%, P = .01), required posterior packing (51.9% vs 17 .8%, P < .001), and had more comorbid hypertension (66.7% vs 38.4%, P = .01) compared to patients who had 1 visit. Compared to patients presenting during summer and fall (May–October), patients presenting during winter and spring (November–April) were more often treated for anterior epistaxis with Surgicel®/Surgifoam® rather than posterior nasal packing (57.4% vs 37.0%, P = .04). Application of our consult algorithm decreased consultation by 78% and liberated 58.5 hours of ENT resident time.

Conclusion

Patients with recurrent epistaxis tended to be male and had more comorbid hypertension. Further prospective studies are warranted to ascertain the factors associated with recurrent epistaxis. Our consult algorithm for epistaxis helped reduce unnecessary ENT consultation and facilitated reallocation of valuable resident work hours.
How is safety climate formed? A meta-analysis of the antecedents of safety climate
Authors: He Yimin , Wang Yi , Payne Stephanie C.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to provide a comprehensive quantitative review of research to date on the antecedents of psychological and organizational safety climate. Building upon and expanding Zohar’s conceptual model, antecedents were organized into three broad categories: situational factors, interpersonal interactions, and personal factors. Data were gleaned from 136 primary studies to calculate effect sizes for 38 antecedents and the relative importance of each antecedent within the three categories. Antecedent effect sizes were generally homologous for psychological and organizational safety climate, with the strongest effect sizes for interpersonal interactions followed by organizational climate and leadership. The magnitude of the safety climate antecedent effect sizes tended to be stronger in health-care industry studies and varied inconsistently as a function of the industry-specific nature of the safety climate measure. This meta-analysis provides a much needed summary of the research to date in an effort to guide future research and practice on the development and improvement of safety climate in organizations.
Intra‐procedural and delayed bleeding after resection of large colorectal lesions: The SCALP study
Authors: Amato Arnaldo , Radaelli Franco , Correale Loredana , Di Giulio Emilio , Buda Andrea , Cennamo Vincenzo , Fuccio Lorenzo , Devani Massimo , Tarantino Ottaviano , Fiori Giancarla , De Nucci Germana , De Bellis Mario , Hassan Cesare , Repici Alessandro ,   Bowell Group
Published: September 2019

Background and aim

The safety of endoscopic resection of large colorectal lesions (LCLs) (≥20 mm) is clinically relevant. The aim of the present study was to assess the rate of post‐resection adverse events (AEs) in a real‐life setting.

Patients and methods

In a prospective, multicentre, observational study, data from consecutive resections of LCLs over a 6‐month period were collected in 24 centres. Patients were followed up at 15 days from resection for AEs. The primary endpoint was intra‐procedural bleeding according to lesion morphology. Secondary endpoints were delayed bleeding and perforation. Patient and polyp characteristics, and polypectomy techniques were analysed with respect to the bleeding events.

Results

In total, 1504 patients (female/male: 633/871, mean age, 66.1) with 1648 LCLs (29.1% pedunculated and 70.9% non‐pedunculated lesions) were included. Overall, 168 (11.2%) patients had post‐resection bleeding (8.5 and 2.0% immediate and delayed, respectively), while 15 (1.0%) cases of perforation occurred. Independent predictors of immediate bleeding for pedunculated lesions were bleeding prophylaxis (odds ratio (OR) 0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13–0.62), simple polypectomy (versus endoscopic mucosal resection, OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.17–0.88) and inpatient setting (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.07–5.08), while bleeding prophylaxis (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.30–0.98), academic setting (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.12–0.54) and size (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00–1.05) were predictors for those non‐pedunculated. Indication for colonoscopy (screening versus diagnostic (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.12–0.86)), antithrombotic therapy (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.54–6.39) and size (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.12–4.87) independently predicted delayed bleeding.

Conclusions

A low rate of post‐resection AEs was observed in a real‐life setting, reassuring as to the safety of endoscopic resection of ≥2 cm colorectal lesions. Bleeding prophylaxis reduced the intra‐procedural bleeding risk, while antithrombotic therapy increased delayed bleeding.

CLINICALTRIAL: (NCT02694120).
On the Interaction of Head and Gaze Control With Acoustic Beam Width of a Simulated Beamformer in a Two-Talker Scenario
Authors: Hládek Ĺuboš , Porr Bernd , Naylor Graham , Lunner Thomas , Owen Brimijoin W.
Published: September 2019

Superdirectional acoustic beamforming technology provides a high signal-to-noise ratio, but potential speech intelligibility benefits to hearing aid users are limited by the way the users move their heads. Steering the beamformer using eye gaze instead of head orientation could mitigate this problem. This study investigated the intelligibility of target speech with a dynamically changing direction when heard through gaze-controlled (GAZE) or head-controlled (HEAD) superdirectional simulated beamformers. The beamformer provided frequency-independent noise attenuation of either 8 dB (WIDE [moderately directional]) or 12 dB (NARROW [highly directional]) relative to no beamformer referred as the OMNI (omni-directional) condition. Before the main experiment, signal-to-noise ratios were normalized for each participant and each beam width condition to yield equal percentage of correct performance in a reference condition. Hence, results are presented as normalized speech intelligibility (NSI). In an ongoing presentation, the participants ( n = 17), of varying degree of hearing loss, heard single-word targets every 1.5 s coming from either left (−30°) or right (+30°) presented in continuous, spatially distributed, speech-shaped noise. When the target was static, NSI was better in the GAZE than in the HEAD condition, but only when the beam was NARROW. When the target switched location without warning, NSI performance dropped. In this case, the WIDE HEAD condition provided the best average NSI performance, because some participants tended to orient their head in between the targets, allowing them to hear out the target regardless of location. The difference in NSI between GAZE and HEAD conditions for individual participants was related to the observed head-orientation strategy, which varied widely across participants.
Comparison of characteristics and outcomes of late acute and NIH chronic GVHD between Japanese and white patients
Authors: Inamoto Yoshihiro , White Jennifer , Ito Reiko , Martin Paul J. , Fatobene Giancarlo , Ito Ayumu , Tanaka Takashi , Kurosawa Saiko , Kim Sung-Won , Bar Merav , Sorror Mohamed L. , Sandmaier Brenda M. , Lee Stephanie J. , Fukuda Takahiro , Flowers Mary E. D.
Published: September 2019

Key Points

Late acute and chronic GVHD are experienced differently across the races in terms of incidence, sites, severities, and clinical outcomes. Japanese patients have more frequent liver and less frequent gastrointestinal involvement with late acute and NIH chronic GVHD.
Helping consumers to overcome information overload with a diversified online review subset
Authors: Jin Zhang , Zhangwen Weng , Naichen Ni
Published: September 2019

Redundant online reviews often have a negative impact on the efficiency of consumers’ decision-making in their online shopping. A feasible solution for business analytics is to select a review subset from the original review corpus for consumers, which is called review selection. This study aims to address the diversified review selection problem, and proposes an effective review selection approach called Simulated Annealing-Diversified Review Selection (SA-DRS) that considers the semantic relationship of review features and the content diversity of selected reviews simultaneously. SA-DRS first constructs a feature taxonomy by utilizing the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic model and the Word2vec model to measure the topic relation and word context relation. Based on the established feature taxonomy, the similarity between each pair of reviews is defined and the review quality is estimated as well. Finally, diversified, high-quality reviews are selected heuristically by SA-DRS in the spirit of the simulated annealing method, forming the selected review subset. Extensive experiments are conducted on real-world e-commerce platforms to demonstrate the effectiveness of SA-DRS compared to other extant review selection approaches.
Alcohol consumption in Austrian physicians
Authors: Pjrek Edda , Silberbauer Leo , Kasper Siegfried , Winkler Dietmar
Published: September 2019

Background

Alcohol is one of the leading exogenous causes for adverse health consequences in Europe. The aim of the present study was to examine the pattern of alcohol consumption in Austrian physicians.

Methods

A telephone survey was conducted in 400 office-based physicians in Austria. Our questionnaire included the four questions of the CAGE questionnaire and questions to assess alcohol consumption on the previous day.

Results

131 participants (32.8%) completed the interview. 3.8% of the subjects had a CAGE score of 2 or higher indicating a problem with alcohol, but this rate was not statistically different from numbers reported for the general population (4.1%). 46.6% of our subjects had drunken alcohol on the previous day. Compared to the general population, the rate of having drunk alcohol yesterday was higher in both gender of our sample, but the amount of alcohol drunk was significantly lower. Doctors in rural areas had drunken alcohol more frequently and in greater quantities on the previous day than those in urban areas. There was a positive correlation between age and the amount of drinking on the previous day, and between age and CAGE scores. Furthermore, subjects who had consumed alcohol yesterday obtained higher scores on the CAGE.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the rate of Austrian physicians with problematic alcohol consumption is similar to the general population. Physicians in rural areas and older doctors might be of higher risk for alcohol abuse.
Corporations’ use and misuse of evidence to influence health policy: a case study of sugar-sweetened beverage taxation
Authors: Fooks Gary Jonas , Williams Simon , Box Graham , Sacks Gary
Published: September 2019

Background

Sugar sweetened beverages (SSB) are a major source of sugar in the diet. Although trends in consumption vary across regions, in many countries, particularly LMICs, their consumption continues to increase. In response, a growing number of governments have introduced a tax on SSBs. SSB manufacturers have opposed such taxes, disputing the role that SSBs play in diet-related diseases and the effectiveness of SSB taxation, and alleging major economic impacts. Given the importance of evidence to effective regulation of products harmful to human health, we scrutinised industry submissions to the South African government’s consultation on a proposed SSB tax and examined their use of evidence.

Results

Corporate submissions were underpinned by several strategies involving the misrepresentation of evidence. First, references were used in a misleading way, providing false support for key claims. Second, raw data, which represented a pliable, alternative evidence base to peer reviewed studies, was misused to dispute both the premise of targeting sugar for special attention and the impact of SSB taxes on SSB consumption. Third, purposively selected evidence was used in conjunction with other techniques, such as selective quoting from studies and omitting important qualifying information, to promote an alternative evidential narrative to that supported by the weight of peer-reviewed research. Fourth, a range of mutually enforcing techniques that inflated the effects of SSB taxation on jobs, public revenue generation, and gross domestic product, was used to exaggerate the economic impact of the tax. This “hyperbolic accounting” included rounding up figures in original sources, double counting, and skipping steps in economic modelling.

Conclusions

Our research raises fundamental questions concerning the bona fides of industry information in the context of government efforts to combat diet-related diseases. The beverage industry’s claims against SSB taxation rest on a complex interplay of techniques, that appear to be grounded in evidence, but which do not observe widely accepted approaches to the use of either scientific or economic evidence. These techniques are similar, but not identical, to those used by tobacco companies and highlight the problems of introducing evidence-based policies aimed at managing the market environment for unhealthful commodities.
Movement and heart rate in the Scandinavian brown bear (Ursus arctos)
Authors: Blanchet Leslie , Fuchs Boris , Støen Ole-Gunnar , Bergouignan Audrey , Ordiz Andrés , Laske Timothy G. , Arnemo Jon M. , Evans Alina L.
Published: September 2019

Background

Understanding animal movement facilitates better management and conservation. The link between movement and physiology holds clues to the basic drivers of animal behaviours. In bears, heart rate increases with the metabolic rate during the active phase. Their movement and heart rate change at seasonal and daily scales, and can also depend on environmental factors. Their behaviour is, therefore, flexible in activity patterns with high individual variations. The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between heart rate and distance travelled, and test whether this relationship was influenced by environmental (e.g., time of year and time of day) and biological (e.g., reproductive status, sex, body mass and age of the bears) factors. We analysed data of distance travelled and heart rate of 15 GPS-collared brown bears, both males and females, equipped with cardiac loggers in the south of Sweden in 2014–2017.

Results

Heart rate increased with distances travelled exceeding 50 m in an hour, but this correlation depended on the day-of-year with higher heart rate in August than in May. Bears accompanied by cubs had lower heart rate than solitary bears especially in May. When movement was minimum (< 50 m in an hour), heart rate was not related to distance travelled and was very variable, regardless of the months.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that heart rate increases with long distances travelled, but varies with day-of-year and reproductive status, depending on the metabolic rate. Studying the change in heart rate in bears can help to evaluate their seasonal rhythms and how different factors affect them. This study illustrates the usefulness of combined bio-logging proxies, i.e., movement and heart rates in our case, in animal ecology.
Use of Twitter across educational settings: a review of the literature
Authors: Malik Aqdas , Heyman-Schrum Cassandra , Johri Aditya
Published: September 2019

The use of social media across the educational landscape is on the rise. Subsequently, the body of research on this topic is vibrant and growing. In this article, we present findings from a review of 103 peer-reviewed scientific studies published over the last decade (2007–2017) that address the use of Twitter for educational purposes across formal and informal settings. The majority of the studies reported in the literature are descriptive case studies carried out with students in North American and European higher education settings. Analysis of these studies signals Twitter as a useful tool for communication due to high accessibility, novelty, and real-time format. Students, teachers, and other stakeholders use it as a pedagogical tool to gain information, interact and engage with each other, participate in their respective communities of interests, and share their insights about specific topics. Moreover, Twitter has the potential to enhance students’ learning capabilities as well as improve their motivation and engagement due to its unique features and non-traditional teaching approach. Finally, our analysis advocates for carrying out further empirical studies focusing on digital trace data and inference, particularly in the developing countries.
NLRX1 is not involved in the host defense against Escherichia coli induced pyelonephritis
Authors: Kors Lotte , Butter Loes M. , Claessen Nike , Teske Gwendoline J.D. , Girardin Stephen E. , Florquin Sandrine , Leemans Jaklien C.
Published: September 2019

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) are one of the most prominent infections that have serious impact on kidney functioning and the development of chronic kidney disease. NOD-like receptor (NLR)X1 is an innate immune receptor that is important for immune metabolism and regulation, with as yet an unknown role in UTI and the pathophysiology of pyelonephritis.

Methods: Wild-type (WT) and NLRX1 Knock-out (KO) female mice were subjected to UTI by intravesically inoculation of uropathogenic E. coli and sacrificed at 24h and 48h after infection after which bacterial burden and the inflammatory response in the bladder and kidney were studied. Ex  vivo we studied the role of NLRX1 during the LPS induced pro-inflammatory cytokine response and phagocytosis of E. coli by granulocytes and monocytes.

Results: Here, we report that during early experimental UTI NLRX1 absence reduces bacterial clearance in the bladder and dampens the inflammatory cytokine response, whereas in the kidney NLRX1 does not affect bacterial burden or cytokine response. In addition, we found that NLRX1 is not essential for the pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion by granulocytes and monocytes in response to LPS nor for bacterial phagocytosis.

Conclusion: Together, we report that NLRX1 is important in enhancing the early host defense against uropathogenic E. coli in the bladder but does not affect the development of pyelonephritis.
National culture as a correlate of research performance and impact
Authors: Abraham Juneman
Published: September 2019

National culture has been overlooked in discussions related to research performance and impact owing to individual, socio-political structure, and economic factors. This study shows the relationships between the dimensions of cultural value orientation of the nation and research performance & impact. More than 60 countries were included and Spearman correlation analysis was employed. The variables were taken from Geert Hofstede and Scimago Journal & Country Rank worksheets. This study found that (1) Power distance - the positive inclination of the culture toward power disparities among people - is negatively correlated with research impact; (2) Individualism - the level of independence a society keeps up among its individuals -  are positively correlated with research performance and research impact; (3) Indulgence - the degree to which society members do not attempt to control their urges - is positively correlated with research impact; and (4) after controlling the Log GDP per capita, uncertainty avoidance - the  manner in which that a society seeks to manage the actuality that the future can never be controlled - is negatively correlated with research impact.