bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of Recreational Marathon Runners’ Self-Reported Anthropometric Data
Authors: Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Knechtle Beat
Published: June 2020

While studies on large samples of recreational runners have often relied on participants’ self-reported height and body mass, the validity of these data have not been investigated for this population. Hence, this study sought to examine the validity of self-reported anthropometric measures among recreational marathon runners. Female ( n = 32) and male ( n = 135) recreational marathon runners were requested to estimate their body mass and height (and we calculated their self-reported body mass index [BMI]), after which we took actual measures of their body mass and height and calculated their actual BMI. Participants’ self-reported values underestimated their actual body mass by 0.65 kg ( p < .001, η2 = 0.222) and their actual BMI by 0.35 kg ⋅ m−2 ( p < .001, η2 = 0.245). There was a significant Assessment Method × Sex Interaction for both body mass ( p = .019, η2 = 0.033) and BMI ( p = .017, η2 = 0.034), as women underestimated body mass values more than men. Participants overestimated their height by 0.44 cm ( p < .001, η2 = 0.075), but the interaction of sex and assessment method for height was not statistically significant. Underestimates of body mass correlated with marathon racing speed ( r = .24, p = .006) and body fat percentage ( r = −.29, p = .001) in men, but not in women ( p > .05). The disagreement between self-reported and measured anthropometric data in the present sample was lower than has been previously reported for the general population, suggesting that marathon runners may more accurately self-perceive and/or report their anthropometric characteristics. These findings are of practical value for health professionals and researchers (e.g., nutritionists and exercise physiologists) questionnaires to recreational marathon runners.
Communicating with purpose: Image work, social media, and policing
Authors: O’Connor Christopher D. , Zaidi Huda
Published: June 2020

Police services have substantially increased their use of social media in everyday police work. Few researchers have directly asked police services about the purpose their social media accounts serve. Through in-depth interviews conducted with police personnel overseeing police services’ social media sites in Canada, this article examines the reasons provided by police services for creating and operating their social media sites. We argue that the police utilize social media to communicate an image of police that demonstrates effectiveness and an openness to engaging with the public. We also explore the challenges that come with this type of image work.
Institutional foundations of global well-being: Democracy, state capacity and social protection
Authors: Cronert Axel , Hadenius Axel
Published: June 2020

This is an article about the foundations of human well-being. It makes two integrated contributions. We first examine well-being around the contemporary world, finding a remarkable correlation between subjective and objective measures and a considerable variation in overall well-being among countries. We then argue that certain institutional conditions have laid the basis for these differences. Integrating insights from several research strands, we outline a new explanatory model of popular well-being that considers the interactions between three institutional provisions: a well-functioning democracy, advanced state capacity, and an encompassing social protection system. To test the relationships implied, we used a new dataset involving more than 100 countries in the contemporary world that extends six decades back in time. Our investigations indicated that all three factors play a role in promoting popular well-being. However, to understand how, we need to consider the ways in which they can complement, substitute and mutually reinforce each other.
Assessing National Utilization Trends and Outcomes of Robotic and Endoscopic Thyroidectomy in the United States
Authors: Jacobs Daniel , Torabi Sina J. , Gibson Courtney , Rahmati Rahmatullah , Mehra Saral , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: June 2020

Objective

We aimed to evaluate trends and outcomes of surgical approaches to thyroid surgery. We hypothesized that there have been changes over time in the utilization of approaches to thyroidectomy, including endoscopic, robotic, and open approaches, and that patient outcomes may differ between open surgery and endoscopic or robotic approaches.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Setting

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried between 2010 and 2016.

Subjects and Methods

National cohort of patients. Descriptive statistics were performed using χ2 test, Mann‐Whitney U test, t test and analysis of variance. To investigate complication rates, patient matching was performed with subsequent analysis using simple and multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

We identified 217,938 patients within the NCDB. While endoscopic thyroid surgery increased, relatively, in use over time (0.93% to 2.34% of cases in 2010 and 2016, respectively), robotic thyroid surgery started to decline relatively to other approaches from 2013 to 2016 (0.39% to 0.25% of cases, respectively). The endoscopic approach was performed more commonly than the robotic approach within individual facilities that have reported both procedures (P =. 025). Robotic thyroid surgery was associated with increased risk of positive margins (P =. 046), while endoscopic thyroid surgery was associated with a higher rate of unplanned hospital readmission (OR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.09‐2.22), longer inpatient stays (OR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.19‐2.02), and higher 90‐day postoperative mortality (OR, 4.45; 95% CI, 1.58‐12.6).

Conclusion

Endoscopic thyroid surgery has increased in utilization since 2004 but may have worse morbidity and mortality outcomes compared to open surgery.
Long‐Term Otitis Media Outcomes in Infants With Early Tympanostomy Tubes
Authors: Luu Kimberly , Park James , Shaffer Amber D. , Chi David H.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To review the otologic outcomes of infants who failed the newborn hearing screen (NBHS) and received early tympanostomy tubes for otitis media with effusion (OME).

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Consecutive patients (2007‐2018) who failed an NBHS and required tympanostomy tubes before 6 months of age were included. Variables including hearing loss and otitis media risk factors, episodes of acute otitis media (AOM), number of subsequent tympanostomy tubes, and posttympanostomy tube audiogram results were recorded.

Results

The cohort included 171 patients. Median age at referral to otolaryngology was 2.7 months. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was subsequently identified in 22 (12.9%) of infants after resolution of the effusion. The peak incidence of AOM was during the second year of life (1‐1.9 years), with a median of 1 episode. Ninety‐five patients (55.6%) had replacement of tubes, 41 of 171 (24.0%) had 2 or more additional sets of tubes, and long‐term tubes were eventually placed in 8 of 95 (8.4%) patients. Craniofacial anomalies were identified in 43.3% of patients. Tube replacement (hazard ratio, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.95‐4.63; P <. 01, log‐rank) and AOM (β, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.43‐1.65; P =. 04, ordered logistic regression) were more common, and SNHL less common (odds ratio, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.031‐0.61; P <. 01, logistic regression), in children with craniofacial anomalies.

Conclusion

OME is a common cause of failed NBHS. A notable proportion was subsequently found to have SNHL, reiterating the need for postoperative hearing assessments. Infants meeting indication for early tympanostomy tubes for resolution of OME have a high incidence of recurrent AOM and require subsequent tubes.
Olfactory and Oral Manifestations of COVID‐19: Sex‐Related Symptoms—A Potential Pathway to Early Diagnosis
Authors: Biadsee Ameen , Biadsee Ameer , Kassem Firas , Dagan Or , Masarwa Shchada , Ormianer Zeev
Published: June 2020

Objective

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic poses a threat to global health. Early diagnosis is an essential key to limit the outbreak of the virus.

Study Design

Case series, study conducted between March 25, 2020, and April 15, 2020.

Setting

Ambulatory, nonhospitalized patients who were quarantined in a designated hotel for COVID‐19 patients and were recruited by an advertisement at the hotel.

Subjects and Methods

In total, 140 patients participated in a web‐based questionnaire assessing initial symptoms of common viral diseases, olfactory and taste functions, xerostomia, and orofacial pain.

Results

A total of 58 men and 70 women participated. Initial symptoms were cough (59.4%), weakness (47.7%), myalgia (46.9%), fever (42.2%), headache (40.6%), impaired sense of smell (38.3%), impaired sense of taste (32.8%), sore throat (26.6%), runny nose (26.6%), and nasal congestion (22.7%). All symptoms were more frequent among women; however, only runny nose was statistically significant (P =. 018). The most common combination of symptoms was cough and weakness (37.5%). A total of 25.8% reported olfactory and taste dysfunctions in the absence of other symptoms. In a comparison between the sexes, cough and runny nose were the most common combination in women (P =. 018). A total of 38.3% of patients reported olfactory dysfunction as an initial symptom. Anosmia and facial pain were more common among women (P <. 001 and P =. 01, respectively), and 56% of patients reported xerostomia.

Conclusion

A considerable number of patients presented with olfactory and oral disorders. Interestingly, women presented with a different cluster of symptoms than men, which may suggest a new clinical approach to diagnosing COVID‐19 disease.
Task-based hybrid shared control for training through forceful interaction
Authors: Fitzsimons Kathleen , Kalinowska Aleksandra , Dewald Julius P , Murphey Todd D
Published: June 2020

Despite the fact that robotic platforms can provide both consistent practice and objective assessments of users over the course of their training, there are relatively few instances where physical human–robot interaction has been significantly more effective than unassisted practice or human-mediated training. This article describes a hybrid shared control robot, which enhances task learning through kinesthetic feedback. The assistance assesses user actions using a task-specific evaluation criterion and selectively accepts or rejects them at each time instant. Through two human subject studies (total [Formula: see text]), we show that this hybrid approach of switching between full transparency and full rejection of user inputs leads to increased skill acquisition and short-term retention compared with unassisted practice. Moreover, we show that the shared control paradigm exhibits features previously shown to promote successful training. It avoids user passivity by only rejecting user actions and allowing failure at the task. It improves performance during assistance, providing meaningful task-specific feedback. It is sensitive to initial skill of the user and behaves as an “assist-as-needed” control scheme, adapting its engagement in real time based on the performance and needs of the user. Unlike other successful algorithms, it does not require explicit modulation of the level of impedance or error amplification during training and it is permissive to a range of strategies because of its evaluation criterion. We demonstrate that the proposed hybrid shared control paradigm with a task-based minimal intervention criterion significantly enhances task-specific training.
Impersonal and Predatory Relations With Child Victims of Sexual Assault: Pedophilic Interest and Early Childhood Abuse
Authors: Abulafia Judith , Epstein Robert
Published: June 2020

Fixated pedophilic sexual attraction is considered to be a major determinant of risk among sex offenders, but there is little empirical evidence regarding its treatment. It was hypothesized that two prominent factors which have emerged in the literature as being present among some sexual offenders, namely, impersonal, narcissistic, and predatory patterns of offending against victims, and experiencing childhood sexual abuse, may be related to specifically to the strength of pedophilic interest. Such a relationship would provide a deeper understanding of the corollaries of pedophilic interest and would suggest targets for treatment. These factors were explored in a sample of 532 sexual offenders who attended the National Centre for Risk Assessment in Israel, and were found to be significantly related to the level of pedophilic interest in the sample. The implications for treatment of high-risk offenders are discussed.
Conceptualization of Three-Stage Fatigue Failure in Asphalt-Rubber Gap-Graded Mixtures using Dynamic Semi-Circular Bending Test
Authors: Venudharan Veena , Biligiri Krishna Prapoorna
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to qualitatively measure the cracking mechanism of asphalt-rubber gap-graded (AR-Gap) mixtures and compare the methodical approach proposed in this research with the conventional fatigue process. As part of experimentation plan, dynamic a semi-circular bending (SCB) test was conducted on 27 AR-Gap mixtures with varying mix parameters, including, binder type, binder content, and aggregate gradation. Fatigue life ( Nf) obtained from the dynamic SCB test was analyzed from a statistical viewpoint, and key relationships that potentially contribute to fatigue performance were identified. Later, crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) was used to study the cracking mechanism of AR-Gap mixtures. CMOD data were analyzed using the Francken model that theorizes the accumulated damage as a three-stage failure. Further, fatigue tertiary life ( Nft) was determined on the premise of structural deterioration obtained from the three-stage failure process. The fatigue disparity factor (ξ), the ratio of Nf to Nft for each asphalt mix was estimated to compare fatigue performance indices. The score of ξ for all the mixtures exceeded 50%, which was indicative of longer crack initiation and crack propagation phase over the third stage of the fatigue cracking mechanism. Overall, the fatigue mechanism was explained through the conceptualization of the three-stage fatigue process through various intrinsic properties of AR-Gap mixtures.
Evolution of Transportation Network Companies and Taxis through 2013–2018 in Chicago
Authors: Roy Sneha , Komanduri Anurag , Proussaloglou Kimon
Published: June 2020

The objective of this paper is to highlight important differences between taxis and transportation network companies (TNCs) in a large urban area. We analyze the publicly available dataset from Chicago which includes taxi and transportation network company (TNC) utilization and the level of service measures from five months in 2013–2014 and the same five months in 2018–2019. We compare and contrast the data from these two points in time to document utilization of taxis and TNCs and to measure differences in travel times, travel distances, fares, destinations served, and the spatial and temporal distribution of these trips. Travel to and from airports has been evaluated separately owing to the exceptionally high number of trips they generate. Striking differences between pooled and unpooled TNC trip volumes and other travel metrics have been assessed to highlight their operational diversity despite being considered as the same mode. The exploratory analysis has been carried out across the shared-ride, time, and mode dimensions. The study revealed both similarities and differences in taxi trip characteristics between the two evaluation periods and also outlined how the ridehailing market has grown over the years despite the near stagnation in population and employment in the city. We believe that assessing how taxis have fared through this time and highlighting the intrinsic differences between how the old and new mode of on-demand ride services coexist is important. This study aims to help understand how new-age mobility services are impacting transportation in one of the largest cities in the U.S.
A Scoping Review of Measures Assessing Gender Microaggressions Against Women
Authors: Gartner Rachel E. , Sterzing Paul R. , Fisher Colleen M. , Woodford Michael R. , Kinney M. Killian , Victor Bryan G.
Published: June 2020

While considerable knowledge exists about blatant gender discrimination and violence targeting women, less is known about gender microaggressions. To understand gender microaggressions’ frequency, prevalence, and effects, researchers need robust quantitative measures. To advance gender microaggressions scholarship and support researchers’ efforts to identify high-quality measures, we conducted a psychometric scoping review. We identified 24 original, quantitative, multi-item measures designed to assess gender microaggressions or related constructs. Included measures needed at least one item assessing gender microaggressions and be used with adult women in the United States. Results indicated an increase in the number of measures including gender microaggressions’ items in recent years, with a major expansion in the number of named gender microaggressions’ measures. We found limited reporting of demographic information. Psychometric testing and characteristics varied across measures. While most ( n = 20) reported internal consistency reliability, only two-thirds ( n = 16) reported undergoing validity testing. When examining microaggressions named measures ( n = 10), we found inconsistent adherence to microaggressions’ theoretical and conceptual foundations. Substantial work remains to develop a “gold standard” measure that does not conflate subtle and blatant acts, assesses the full thematic range of gender microaggressions, and is psychometrically valid across different social contexts and diverse groups of women.
Exosomes Isolated From Platelet-Rich Plasma and Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Recovery of Function After Muscle Injury
Authors: Iyer Shama R. , Scheiber Amanda L. , Yarowsky Paul , Henn R. Frank , Otsuru Satoru , Lovering Richard M.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Clinical use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has gained momentum as treatment for muscle injuries. Exosomes, or small cell–derived vesicles, could be helpful if they could deliver the same or better physiological effect without cell transplantation into the muscle.

Hypothesis:

Local delivery of exosomes derived from PRP (PRP-exos) or MSCs (MSC-exos) to injured muscles hastens recovery of contractile function.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

In a rat model, platelets were isolated from blood, and MSCs were isolated from bone marrow and expanded in culture; exosomes from both were isolated through ultracentrifugation. The tibialis anterior muscles were injured in vivo using maximal lengthening contractions. Muscles were injected with PRP-exos or MSC-exos (immediately after injury and 5 and 10 days after injury); controls received an equal volume of saline. Histological and biochemical analysis was performed on tissues for all groups.

Results:

Injury resulted in a significant loss of maximal isometric torque (66% ± 3%) that gradually recovered over 2 weeks. Both PRP-exos and MSC-exos accelerated recovery, with similar faster recovery of contractile function over the saline-treated group at 5, 10, and 15 days after injury ( P < .001). A significant increase in centrally nucleated fibers was seen with both types of exosome groups by day 15 ( P < .01). Genes involved in skeletal muscle regeneration were modulated by different exosomes. Muscles treated with PRP-exos had increased expression of Myogenin gene ( P < .05), whereas muscles treated with MSC-exos had reduced expression of TGF-β ( P < .05) at 10 days after muscle injury.

Conclusion:

Exosomes derived from PRP or MSCs can facilitate recovery after a muscle strain injury in a small-animal model likely because of factors that can modulate inflammation, fibrosis, and myogenesis.

Clinical Relevance:

Given their small size, low immunogenicity, and ease with which they can be obtained, exosomes could represent a novel therapy for many orthopaedic ailments.
Potential Advantages of Wireless Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Pain Control Post-Abdominoplasty
Authors: Wong Alan , Selsky Alexander D. J. , Zuriarrain Alexander
Published: June 2020

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a relatively new technique used to provide analgesia to the anterolateral abdominal wall following abdominal procedures. Transversus abdominis plane blocks can be performed using a blind/landmark technique or with ultrasound guidance. We report a 49-year-old woman who received a successful wireless ultrasound-guided TAP block during an abdominoplasty. Our case illustrates the potential advantages of a wireless ultrasound-guided TAP block versus a landmark-guided TAP block during an abdominoplasty. It also serves to promote the use of wireless ultrasound imaging when performing a TAP block to minimize risks of the procedure and achieve better pain control postoperatively. Further studies are needed to confirm the added value that ultrasound provides.
Empathy, indiscipline and employability: A research essay on the bilingual Masters programme ‘Cultural Intelligence and Innovation’ at Université de Paris
Authors: Bernard Catherine , Thornton Sara
Published: June 2020

This study considers the 2-year bilingual Masters programme, ‘Cultural Intelligence and Innovation’ at Université de Paris, for which classes are taught in English and in French. Alumni are working as strategic planners, brand managers, community managers, advertisers, futures and trend specialists, web content writers and project leads in a wide variety of organizations throughout the world. This humanities-driven programme has empathy and sensibility at its heart, firstly through the exercise of the imagination and multilingualism and the attendant ability to identify with others, and, secondly, by being attuned to society’s faint frequencies allowing cultural foresight. The programme encourages work outside the confines of discipline as well as critique and counter-thinking. Thinking culture and industry together (academic teachers join forces with those from industry to create hybrid content for courses) is important in preparing the students for work. The programme also fosters the ability to detect shifts in sensibility as a first step in innovation. Finally, the authors consider how the programme might be generalized and similar initiatives established in other higher education institutions.
Recent progress in flapping wings for micro aerial vehicle applications
Authors: Haider Naeem , Shahzad Aamer , Mumtaz Qadri Muhammad Nafees , Ali Shah Syed Irtiza
Published: June 2020

Micro aerial vehicles using flapping wings are under investigation, as an alternative to fixed-wing and rotary-wing micro aerial vehicles. Such flapping-wing vehicles promise key potential advantages of high thrust, agility, and maneuverability, and have a wide range of applications. These applications include both military and commercial domains such as communication relay, search and rescue, visual reconnaissance, and field search. With the advancement in the computational sciences, developments in flapping-wing micro aerial vehicles have progressed exponentially. Such developments require a careful aerodynamic and aeroelastic design of the flapping wing. Therefore, aerodynamic tools are required to study such designs and configurations. In this paper, the role of several parameters is investigated, including the types of flapping wings, the effect of the kinematics and wing geometry (shape, configuration, and structural flexibility) on performance variables such as lift, drag, thrust, and efficiency in various modes of flight. Kinematic variables have a significant effect on the performance of the flapping wing. For instance, a high flap amplitude and pitch rotation, which supports the generation of the strong leading-edge vortex, generates higher thrust. Likewise, wing shape, configuration, and structural flexibility are shown to have a large impact on the performance of the flapping wing. The wing with optimum flexibility maximizes thrust where highly flexible wings lead to performance degradation due to change in the effective angle of attack. This study shows that the development of the flexible flapping wing with performance capabilities similar to those of natural fliers has not yet been achieved. Finally, opportunities for additional research in this field are recommended.
Constructing hybrid gridshells using bending-active formwork
Authors: Schleicher Simon , Herrmann Michael
Published: June 2020

Aiming to promote a more sustainable approach to material utilization in architecture, this article presents an alternative construction method for lightweight and efficient concrete structures. The strategic focus is placed on building wide-spanning roof structures like vaults, domes, and freeform shells with the lowest possible input of raw materials and energy. To achieve this objective, the article explores the novel idea of using bending-active structures, made from millimeter-thin carbon fiber strips, as lost formwork and structural reinforcement for the production of hybrid gridshells. After a general introduction to the state-of-the-art in concrete construction, the authors discuss opportunities and challenges related to flexible formwork designs and their possible impacts on the building industry. Relying on the example of a built prototype, the authors present a promising design methodology and analyze the gridshell’s geometrical and structural characteristics throughout different stages of the construction process. The article concludes by discussing the added value of this research and identifying the key aspects that need to be considered in the further development of this construction method.
Personal politics? Healthcare policies, personal experiences and government attitudes
Authors: Larsen Erik Gahner
Published: June 2020

Do personal experiences matter for public attitudes towards the role of the government? In the domain of healthcare, I argue that policies change the salience of personal experiences for government attitudes. Specifically, I expect that personal experiences matter less for government attitudes when healthcare is publicly financed, that is, when there is less emphasis on financing healthcare via market-based choices. Empirically, I link subjective and objective personal experiences from the International Social Survey Programme to macro-level policy indicators. The analysis provides strong support for the expectation and contributes to a growing body of literature interested in the underpinnings of government attitudes in a comparative perspective.
n-Alkanes and compound carbon isotope records from Lake Yiheshariwusu in the Hulun Buir sandy land, northeastern China
Authors: Xie Manman , Sun Qing , Dong Haowei , Liu Siwen , Shang Wenyu , Ling Yuan , Zhao Jiayu , Chu Guoqiang
Published: June 2020

The Hulun Buir sandy land in northern China is located at the northern limit region of the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) and is therefore sensitive to the extension of the front of the rainfall belt. Here we report an n-alkane and compound-specific carbon isotope record from the Holocene sediments of Lake Yiheshariwusu in the middle of the Hulun Buir sandy land. The sediments contain a suite of n-alkanes with a strong odd over even carbon number predominance, with the maximum contribution from nC31, which is a typical distribution in grassland regions. The low temperatures in this cold region greatly limit the growth of C4 plants and thus the long-chain n-alkanes in lake sediments are mainly derived from leaf wax lipids of C3 plants growing within the sandy land. In this C3-vegetation-dominated region, the δ13C27–33 value (weighted carbon isotope values of nC27– nC33) are regulated mainly by the physiological and biochemical responses of plants to water stress and are therefore interpreted as a proxy of effective precipitation or humidity. The δ13C27–33 time series shows a trend of gradually decreasing values that suggests an increase in effective precipitation since 8.5 ka (1 ka = 1000 cal yr BP). Relative droughts occurred during the intervals of 6.3–5.5, 4.1–3.6 ka, and during the last 200 years. In addition, the δ13C27–33 time series and comparable paleoenvironmental records from neighboring sites suggest opposite trends of summer monsoon rainfall between northeastern and southeastern China. We suggest that a coupled process between low and high latitudes (the western Pacific Subtropical High and the Okhotsk High) may have played a fundamental role in regulating the shift of the frontal rainfall belt and monsoon rainfall distribution in eastern China during the Holocene.
The Role of Interleukin-1β in Destruction of Transplanted Islets
Authors: Chen Cheng , Rong Pengfei , Yang Min , Ma Xiaoqian , Feng Zhichao , Wang Wei
Published: June 2020

Islet transplantation is a promising β-cell replacement therapy for type 1 diabetes, which can reduce glucose lability and hypoglycemic episodes compared with standard insulin therapy. Despite the tremendous progress made in this field, challenges remain in terms of long-term successful transplant outcomes. The insulin independence rate remains low after islet transplantation from one donor pancreas. It has been reported that the islet-related inflammatory response is the main cause of early islet damage and graft loss after transplantation. The production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) has considered to be one of the primary harmful inflammatory events during pancreatic procurement, islet isolation, and islet transplantation. Evidence suggests that the innate immune response is upregulated through the activity of Toll-like receptors and The NACHT Domain-Leucine-Rich Repeat and PYD-containing Protein 3 inflammasome, which are the starting points for a series of signaling events that drive excessive IL-1β production in islet transplantation. In this review, we show recent contributions to the advancement of knowledge of IL-1β in islet transplantation and discuss several strategies targeting IL-1β for improving islet engraftment.
Real readers reading Wasco’s ‘City’: A storyworld possible selves approach
Authors: Martinez Maria-Angeles , Herman Luc
Published: June 2020

This study empirically investigates reader responses to the one-page graphic narrative ‘City’ within the theoretical framework of storyworld possible selves. These are blended structures resulting from the conceptual integration of two input spaces: the mental representation that readers construct for the narrator or character that perspectivizes a narrative, and the mental representation that readers entertain for themselves, or self-concept. In our study, we use a questionnaire to elicit information about the internal organization of storyworld possible selves blends in 15 real readers, and we discuss the bearing of both collectively shared and idiosyncratic storyworld possible self blends on character construction, emotional response, and narrative construal.
Does implicit healthcare rationing impose an unfair legal burden on doctors? A study of Portuguese jurisprudence
Authors: Costa Eva Dias , Pinho Micaela
Published: June 2020

Healthcare rationing is inevitable, never more so than during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Portugal, rationing is largely implicit and relies too much on bedside decisions, made in stressful circumstances, involving ethical dilemmas and being prone to error. This study uses a qualitative approach by exploring the public records of Portuguese courts for malpractice suits between the years of 2008 and 2019 to ascertain whether the damage suffered by patients in these cases could in any part be attributed to a lack of resources. During this research, we found that a large number of lawsuits against doctors and hospitals might have in fact been the unfortunate result of the constraints of implicit prioritization. We concluded that lawyers and judges must be made aware of the impact of implicit rationing decisions on healthcare professionals, who are judged against a professional standard and an inverse onus rule that places on them a heavy burden of proof.
A real-world data approach to determine the optimal dosing strategy for pembrolizumab
Authors: Jang Ashley , Nakashima Lynne , Ng Tonya , Fung Mayo , Jiwani Samarah , Schaff Kimberly , Suess Jennifer , Goncalves Randy , Jang Dennis , Kuik Kimberly , Labelle Sylvie , Pow Alison
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Cancer drug therapy costs continue to rise and threaten the sustainability of Canada’s public healthcare system. Previous studies have calculated potential savings utilizing different dosing regimens of cancer treatments. Our objectives were to determine the financial impact of drug wastage and to explore cost-effective dosing regimens for pembrolizumab.

Methods

This was a retrospective study reviewing data for non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma patients at all six BC Cancer Regional Centres during fiscal years 2017 and 2018. Pembrolizumab waste amounts recorded in pharmacy wastage logs were totalled. Estimates of the number of vials used were compared between vial sharing and non-vial sharing practices to determine the cost differences. Costs for dosing regimens used during fiscal years 2017 and 2018 were compared to 2 mg/kg weight-based dosing (to a maximum of 200 mg), 2 mg/kg dosing rounding down within 5% and 10%, and flat dosing of 200 mg.

Results

There were a total of 202 non-small cell lung cancer and 182 melanoma patients with 2948 doses dispensed. Documented wastage was valued at $1,829,047.44 (8.65%) and across all six centres, vial sharing could reduce costs by $3,207,600.00 using the 100 mg vials. Compared to fiscal years 2017 and 2018, 2 mg/kg dosing (to a maximum of 200 mg) was the most cost-effective, decreasing costs by $222,719.20; flat dosing of 200 mg was the most expensive, increasing costs by $6,625,260.40.

Conclusions

Having smaller vial sizes, practicing vial sharing, and using weight-based dosing all improve cost savings. Further investigations on the allocation of resources to optimize drug use and minimize wastage are needed.
Does Tourism Contribute to Real Estate Boom? A DSGE Modeling in Small Open Economy
Authors: Zhang Hongru , Yang Yang
Published: June 2020

This article aims to investigate the relationship between inbound tourism and housing market along with the recent boom in Icelandic real estate sector, in which both house and rental prices have been rising dramatically. To this end, we construct a small open economy dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model enclosing a tourism sector and a housing market with owner-occupied and rental sections. The simulation results unveil a transmission channel that indicates the higher inbound tourism demand raises both house prices and rental prices. Variance decomposition and historical decomposition show that both inbound tourism demand shock and manufacturing technology shock are the key driving forces of the fluctuations of Icelandic house prices, consumption, and investment, whereas housing preference shock plays the most important role in determining the volatility of rental prices. The policy implications indicate that any shocks to tourism could easily spillover to housing market dynamics and aggregate fluctuations.
High-altitude mountain telemedicine
Authors: Martinelli Massimo , Moroni Davide , Bastiani Luca , Mrakic-Sposta Simona , Giardini Guido , Pratali Lorenza
Published: June 2020

Introduction

An innovative teleconsultation platform has been designed, developed and validated between summer 2017 and winter 2018, in five mountain huts and in three remote outpatient clinical centres of the Italian region Valle d’Aosta of the Mont Blanc massif area.

Methods

An ad-hoc videoconference system was developed within the framework of the e-Rés@MONT (Interreg ALCOTRA) European project, to tackle general health problems and high-altitude diseases (such as acute mountain sickness, high-altitude pulmonary and cerebral oedema). The system allows for contacting physicians at the main hospital in Aosta to perform a specific diagnosis and to give specific advice and therapy to the patients in an extreme environment out-hospital setting. At an altitude between 1500–3500 m, five trained nurses performed clinical evaluations (anamnesis, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation), electrocardiographic and echography monitoring on both tourists and residents as necessary; all of the collected data were sent to the physicians in Aosta.

Results

A total of 702 teleconsultation cases were performed: 333 dismissed (47%), 356 observed (51%) and 13 immediate interventions (2%). In 30 cases the physicians decided there was no need for helicopter and ambulance rescue intervention and hospital admissions. The main physiological measures, the classified pathologies, the severe cases and the cost savings are described in this article.

Discussion

The e-Rés@MONT teleconsultation platform has been discussed in terms of treated cases, feasibility, proactivity in reducing complexities, direct and indirect advantages, and diagnostics help; moreover, general and specific pros and cons have been debated, and future steps have been exposed.
First steps: Health and social care professionals beginning to address the palliative and end of life care needs of people with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations in Lebanon
Authors: Chidiac Claude
Published: June 2020

The available evidence demonstrates that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people face challenges when accessing palliative care services, and receive suboptimal care at the end of life. This is mainly attributed to assumed heterosexuality, lack of knowledge and understanding of LGBT issues and specific healthcare needs, discrimination, homophobia, and transphobia. In Lebanon, legal and institutional support for LGBT individuals is minimal, and palliative care provision remains scarce and fragmented. This compounds the impact of social stigma and marginalisation, and results in unrecognised palliative and end of life care needs for the LGBT individual. This short commentary discusses the development of an LGBT palliative care workshop in Lebanon, which was the first initiative of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It also explores how this initiative has led to further developments, and how these efforts can be replicated in other countries in the MENA region.
Phonetic drift reveals interconnected phonological representations in simultaneous bilinguals: A case study of English and Czech stop consonants
Authors: Podlipský Václav Jonáš , Šimáčková Šárka , Chládková Kateřina
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

The interconnectedness of phonological categories between the two languages of early bilinguals has previously been explored using single-probe speech production and perception data. Our goal was to tap into bilingual phonological representations in another way, namely via monitoring instances of phonetic drift due to changes in language exposure.

Design:

We report a case study of two teenage English–Czech simultaneous bilinguals who live in Canada and spend summers in Czechia (Czech Republic). Voice onset time (VOT) of word-initial voiced and voiceless stops was measured upon the bilinguals’ arrival to and before their departure from a two-month stay in Czechia.

Data and Analysis:

Each bilingual read the same set of 71 Czech and 58 English stop-initial target words (and additional fillers) at each time of measurement. The measured VOT values were submitted to linear mixed effects models, assessing the effects of target language, measurement time, and underlying voicing.

Findings/Conclusions:

After the immersion in a Czech-speaking environment, for both speakers the count of voiced stops realized as prevoiced (i.e., having negative VOT) increased and the measured VOT of voiced stops (appearing different for English and Czech initially) drifted towards more negative (more Czech-like) values in both languages, while no change was detected for the voiceless stops of either English (aspirated) or Czech (unaspirated). The results suggest that the bilinguals maintain three-way VOT distinctions, differentiating voiceless aspirated (English), voiceless unaspirated (Czech), and voiced (English–Czech) stops, with connected bilingual representations of the voiced categories.

Originality:

Data on phonetic drift in simultaneous bilinguals proficient in their two languages have not previously been published.

Significance/Implications:

We show that observing phonetic shifts due to changes in the ambient linguistic environment can be revealing about the organization of phonological space in simultaneous bilinguals.
Structural damping sensitivity affecting the flutter performance of a 10-MW offshore wind turbine
Authors: Hua Xugang , Meng Qingshen , Chen Bei , Zhang Zili
Published: June 2020

Classical flutter of wind turbine blades is one of the most destructive instability phenomena of wind turbines especially for several-MW-scale turbines. In the present work, flutter performance of the DTU 10-MW offshore wind turbine is investigated using a 907-degree-of-freedom aero-hydro-servo-elastic wind turbine model. This model involves the couplings between tower, blades and drivetrain vibrations. Furthermore, the three-dimensional aerodynamic effects on wind turbine blade tip have also been considered through the blade element momentum theory with Bak’s stall delay model and Shen’s tip loss correction model. Numerical simulations have been carried out using data calibrated to the referential DTU 10-MW offshore wind turbine. Comparison of the aeroelastic responses between the onshore and offshore wind turbines is made. Effect of structural damping on the flutter speed of this 10-MW offshore wind turbine is investigated. Results show that the damping in the torsional mode has predominant impact on the flutter limits in comparison with that in the bending mode. Furthermore, for shallow water offshore wind turbines, hydrodynamic loads have small effects on its aeroelastic response.
Effects of solid particles with various charging states and oil aerosols on the filtration characteristics of electret media
Authors: Wang Yongxiang , Lin Zhongping , Zhang Wanyi , Xu Bin
Published: June 2020

In this study, electret media were loaded with neutralized and charged potassium chloride (KCl) to examine the effect of charged solid particles on loading behaviour. The media were then loaded with diethylhexyl sebacate (DEHS), dipropylene glycol (DPG) and glycerol to obtain a correlation between the efficiency degradation and liquid aerosol. The results indicated that the efficiency of electret media decreased from 72% to 46% under the neutralized KCl loading whilst the efficiency decreased from 96% to 82% under the positively charged KCl loading. Particle charging increased the initial efficiency and also effectively minimized the efficiency degradation. Given the increase in efficiency via chargers, the deposition morphology of the solid particles on the fibres was changed to mitigate the efficiency degradation. With respect to electret media loaded with DEHS, DPG and glycerol, the decrease in efficiency was associated with the solubility difference between the fibres and oil aerosols. Given sufficient affinity between the oil particles and fibres, oil molecules permeated the chain segments of the fibres and produced swelling that damaged the charge traps and decreased efficiency. The results of this study can guide practical electret filter operations and provide a better indoor environment.
Investigation on low-velocity impact and interfacial bonding properties of weft-knitted UHMWPE reinforced composites
Authors: Yan Ruosi , Zhang Qianyu , Shi Bao , Liu Shixin , Qin Zhigang , Jia Lixia
Published: June 2020

In this study, low-velocity impact and interfacial bonding properties of weft-knitted ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene (UHMWPE) filaments reinforced epoxy resin and vinyl ester resin composites were investigated. UHMWPE filament yarns of 600 D were applied to fabricate three weft-knitted structures of plain stitch, interlock air space stitch and swiss double pique. Vacuum-assisted resin infusion (VARI) technology was utilized to combine resin and fabric to form inter-ply hybrid rigid composites. The basic mechanics, impact resistance and puncture performance of the hybrid composites were evaluated and their interfacial bonding was analyzed. It was revealed that composites with interlock air space stitch reinforcement exhibited the highest mechanical properties and puncture resistance. Under the same weft-knitted reinforcement, the tensile and flexural properties of the epoxy matrix composites were better than vinyl ester matrix composites. However, their low-velocity impact resistance was a bit inferior. The interfacial bonding ability between vinyl ester resin and weft knitting structure reinforcement was stronger because of the similar material structure between resin and reinforcement. This process is important for determining the optimum bonding method to achieve extensive application and improve the shelf life of UHMWPE composites.
Apple harvesting robot under information technology: A review
Authors: Jia Weikuan , Zhang Yan , Lian Jian , Zheng Yuanjie , Zhao Dean , Li Chengjiang
Published: June 2020

It has been more than 30 years since the French pioneered the research of the apple harvesting robot, and with the joint efforts of scholars all around the world, a variety of prototypes have been developed. However, the existing apple harvesting robot prototype is still in the experimental research stage because of its low harvesting efficiency. With the help of information technology, the related research has ushered in a milestone development, and it is full of opportunities and challenges for apple harvesting robotic researchers. In this article, it briefly introduced the development history, structure, and composition of apple harvesting robots and the operation process, which makes readers have a clear understanding of apple harvesting robot and its harvesting principle. Then systematically summarizing the research results of apple harvesting robots both at domestic and at foreign, we carried out in following three aspects: rapid and accurate recognition and positioning of target fruit, all-weather operation mode, and application of intelligent computing theory in apple harvesting robots, and it analyzes the research progress of apple harvesting robot in detail. The results show that improving the harvesting efficiency is the key and hot spot for the research on apple harvesting robots. Under the impetus of information technology, how to achieve fast and accurate recognition of the fruits of multienvironment and multiple information, obtain reasonable path planning, and further optimization of control strategies are all important research directions.
Distributed target-encirclement guidance law for cooperative attack of multiple missiles
Authors: Yan Pengpeng , Fan Yonghua , Liu Ruifan , Wang Mingang
Published: June 2020

The target-encirclement guidance problem for many-to-one missile-target engagement scenario is studied, where the missiles evenly distribute on a target-centered circle during the homing guidance. The proposed distributed target-encirclement guidance law can achieve simultaneous attack of multiple missiles in different line-of-sight directions. Firstly, the decentralization protocols of desired line-of-sight angles are constructed based on the information of neighboring missiles. Secondly, a biased proportional navigation guidance law that can arbitrarily designate the impact angle is cited. The missiles can achieve all-aspect attack on the target in an encirclement manner by combining the biased proportional navigation guidance law and dynamic virtual targets strategy. Thirdly, the consensus protocol of simultaneous attack is designed, which can guarantee that all missiles’ time-to-go estimates achieve consensus asymptotically, and the convergence of the closed-loop system is proved strictly via the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, numerical simulation results demonstrate the performance and feasibility of the proposed distributed target-encirclement guidance law in different engagement situations.