bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An overview of microbial indigo-forming enzymes
Authors: Fabara Andrea N. , Fraaije Marco W.
Published: December 2019

Indigo is one of the oldest textile dyes and was originally prepared from plant material. Nowadays, indigo is chemically synthesized at a large scale to satisfy the demand for dyeing jeans. The current indigo production processes are based on fossil feedstocks; therefore, it is highly attractive to develop a more sustainable and environmentally friendly biotechnological process for the production of this popular dye. In the past decades, a number of natural and engineered enzymes have been identified that can be used for the synthesis of indigo. This mini-review provides an overview of the various microbial enzymes which are able to produce indigo and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each biocatalytic system.
Imaging of the adult male urethra, penile prostheses and artificial urinary sphincters
Authors: Ramanathan Subramaniyan , Raghu Vineetha , Ramchandani Parvati
Published: December 2019

To discuss the imaging appearances of various pathologies affecting adult male urethra and to review the role of imaging in the assessment of artificial urinary sphincters and penile prostheses. Diagnosis of common male urethral diseases heavily depends on two conventional fluoroscopic techniques namely retrograde urethrography and voiding cystourethrography. These are useful in evaluating common urethral diseases like traumatic injury, infections, and strictures. Cross-sectional imaging can be useful in evaluating periurethral pathologies. Artificial urinary sphincters, slings, and periurethral bulking agents are used in the management of urinary incontinence and imaging can be utilized to detect complications in these devices. Cross-sectional imaging especially MRI plays a significant role in evaluating the different types of penile prostheses and their malfunctioning.
Improvement in Polysomnographic Objective Sleep Quality in Adults with Pectus Excavatum After the Nuss Procedure
Authors: Yang Mei‐Chen , Lan Chou‐Chin , Wu Yao‐Kuang , Hsieh Min‐Shiau , Wei Bo‐Chun , Cheng Yeung‐Leung
Published: December 2019

Background

Patients with pectus excavatum have a poorer subjective sleep quality and quality of life than the general population. The Nuss procedure has been shown to improve these patients’ quality of life, but data regarding their postoperative sleep quality are lacking. We aimed to evaluate the objective sleep quality of adults with pectus excavatum before and after the Nuss procedure.

Methods

Twenty‐eight participants completed this study. Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) scores for daytime sleepiness, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores for subjective sleep quality, and overnight polysomnography for objective sleep quality were evaluated before and 6 months after the Nuss procedure.

Results

Subjective sleep quality improved after the Nuss procedure. The median PSQI score decreased from 7 [interquartile range (IQR): 5; 9] to 5 (IQR: 4; 7, p = 0.029); the median percentage of poor PSQI sleep quality decreased from 64.3 to 35.7% (p = 0.048). The median percentage of rapid eye movement sleep significantly increased after surgery [15.6% (IQR: 12.2%; 19.8%) vs. 20.4% (IQR: 14.5%; 24.9%), p = 0.016]. Sleep interruptions also improved, with the median arousal index decreasing from 9.5 (IQR: 4.8; 18.2) to 8.2 (IQR: 4.3; 12.1; p = 0.045). However, there was no significant change in ESS scores after surgery (p = 0.955).

Conclusions

Pectus excavatum may be associated with poor subjective and objective sleep quality in adults, and the condition may improve after the Nuss procedure. For adults with pectus excavatum who report poor subjective sleep quality, polysomnography should be considered to assess their preoperative and postoperative sleep condition.
Reduced risk of chronic GVHD by low-dose rATG in adult matched sibling donor peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies
Authors: Dou Liping , Hou Cheng , Ma Chao , Li Fei , Gao Xiaoning , Huang Wenrong , Wang Shuhong , Gao Chunji , Yu Li , Liu Daihong
Published: December 2019

The optimal rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG) graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis regimen in matched sibling donor peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (MSD-PBSCT) remains to be elucidated. In this prospective study, we used low-dose rATG for GVHD prophylaxis in patients or donors aged ≥ 40 years with hematological malignancies receiving MSD-PBSCT. rATG was administered to 40 patients at an intravenous dose of 5 mg/kg divided over day 5 and day 4 before graft infusion. No graft failure occurred. Median times to leukocyte engraftment and platelet engraftment were 11.0 days and 13.9 days. The cumulative incidence of grades 2–4 and grades 3–4 acute GVHD at day +100 was 30.0% and 2.6%. The 2-year cumulative incidence of extensive chronic GVHD and severe chronic GVHD was 11.4% and 14.7%. 93.5% (29/31) of patients had discontinued immunosuppressive medication within 3 years after transplantation. The 2-year cumulative incidence of transplant-related mortality (TRM) and relapse was 14.0% and 22.6%. The cumulative incidence of cytomegalovirus reactivation, Epstein–Barr virus reactivation, and fungal infection was 22.3%, 12.9%, and 12.5%. Kaplan–Meier estimates for overall survival, disease-free survival, and GVHD-free and relapse-free survival 3 years after transplantation were 68.9%, 68.9%, and 54.0%. rATG for GVHD prophylaxis is tolerable and efficacious at a 5 mg/kg total dose administered over 2 days (days −5 to −4) in patients receiving allogeneic MSD-PBSCT.
Novel imaging techniques to study postmortem human fetal anatomy: a systematic review on microfocus-CT and ultra-high-field MRI
Authors: Dawood Y. , Strijkers G. J. , Limpens J. , Oostra R. J. , de Bakker B. S.
Published: December 2019

Background

MRI and CT have been extensively used to study fetal anatomy for research and diagnostic purposes, enabling minimally invasive autopsy and giving insight in human fetal development. Novel (contrast-enhanced) microfocus CT (micro-CT) and ultra-high-field (≥ 7.0 T) MRI (UHF-MRI) techniques now enable micron-level resolution that combats the disadvantages of low-field MRI and conventional CT. Thereby, they might be suitable to study fetal anatomy in high detail and, in time, contribute to the postmortem diagnosis of fetal conditions.

Objectives

(1) To systematically examine the usability of micro-CT and UHF-MRI to study postmortem human fetal anatomy, and (2) to analyze factors that govern success at each step of the specimen preparation and imaging.

Method

MEDLINE and EMBASE were systematically searched to identify publications on fetal imaging by micro-CT or UHF-MRI. Scanning protocols were summarized and best practices concerning specimen preparation and imaging were enumerated.

Results

Thirty-two publications reporting on micro-CT and UHF-MRI were included. The majority of the publications focused on imaging organs separately and seven publications focused on whole body imaging, demonstrating the possibility of visualization of small anatomical structures with a resolution well below 100 μm. When imaging soft tissues by micro-CT, the fetus should be stained by immersion in Lugol’s staining solution.

Conclusion

Micro-CT and UHF-MRI are both excellent imaging techniques to provide detailed images of gross anatomy of human fetuses. The present study offers an overview of the current best practices when using micro-CT and/or UHF-MRI to study fetal anatomy for clinical and research purposes.

Key Points

•Micro-CT and UHF-MRI can both be used to study postmortem human fetal anatomy for clinical and research purposes.

•Micro-CT enables high-resolution imaging of fetal specimens in relatively short scanning time. However, tissue staining using a contrast solution is necessary to enable soft-tissue visualization.

•UHF-MRI enables high-resolution imaging of fetal specimens, without the necessity of prior staining, but with the drawback of long scanning time.
Frequency and clinical features of treatment-refractory myasthenia gravis
Authors: Rath Jakob , Brunner Ines , Tomschik Matthias , Zulehner Gudrun , Hilger Eva , Krenn Martin , Paul Anna , Cetin Hakan , Zimprich Fritz
Published: December 2019

Background

To investigate the frequency and characterize the clinical features of treatment-refractory myasthenia gravis in an Austrian cohort.

Methods

Patient charts of 126 patients with generalized myasthenia gravis and onset between 2000 and 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were classified as treatment-refractory according to strict, predefined criteria. These mandated patients being at least moderately symptomatic (i.e., MGFA class III) or needing either maintenance immunoglobulins or plasma exchange therapy for at least 1 year in spite of two adequately dosed immunosuppressive drugs. Clinical features and outcome at last follow-up were compared to treatment-responsive patients.

Results

14 out of 126 patients (11.1%) met these criteria of treatment-refractory myasthenia gravis. Treatment-refractory patients had more frequent clinical exacerbations and more often received rescue treatments or a further escalation of immunosuppressive therapies. They also remained more severely affected at last follow-up. An early onset of myasthenia gravis was associated with a higher risk for a refractory course.

Conclusion

A small subgroup of patients with generalized myasthenia gravis do not respond sufficiently to standard therapies. Refractory disease has considerable implications for both patients and health care providers and highlights an unmet need for new treatment options.
An FFT-based spectral solver for interface decohesion modelling using a gradient damage approach
Authors: Sharma L. , Peerlings R. H. J. , Shanthraj P. , Roters F. , Geers M. G. D.
Published: December 2019

This work presents a fast Fourier transform (FFT) based method that can be used to model interface decohesion. The inability of an FFT solver to deal with sharp interfaces discards the use of conventional cohesive zones to model the interfacial mechanical behaviour within this framework. This limitation is overcome by approximating sharp interfaces (e.g. grain/phase boundaries) with an interphase. Within the interphase, the background plastic constitutive behaviour is inherited from the respective adjacent grains. The anisotropic kinematics of the decohesion process is modelled using a damage deformation gradient that is constructed by mapping the opening strains (in normal and tangential modes) to the associated projection tensors. The degradation (damage) of the interfacial opening resistances is modelled via a dimensionless nonlocal damage variable that prevents localisation of damage within the interphase. This nonlocal variable results from the solution of a gradient damage based regularisation equation within the interphase subdomain. The damage field is constrained to the interphase region by applying a relatively large penalisation on the damage gradients inside the interphase. The extent of nonlocality ensures that the damage is largely uniform in the direction perpendicular to the interphase, thus making its thickness the theoretical lengthscale for dissipation. To achieve model predictions that are objective with respect to the interphase thickness, scaling relations of the model parameters are proposed. The numerical performance is shown for a uniform opening case and then for a propagating crack. Finally, an application to an artificial polycrystal is shown.
Correction to: Eplet mismatch analysis and allograft outcome across racially diverse groups in a pediatric transplant cohort: a single-center analysis
Authors: Philogene Mary Carmelle , Amin Anita , Zhou Sheng , Charnaya Olga , Vega Renato , Desai Niraj , Neu Alicia M. , Pruette Cozumel S.
Published: December 2019

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. In the third paragraph of “Discussion,” two references were missing.
Effects of vedolizumab in Japanese patients with Crohn’s disease: a prospective, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trial with exploratory analyses
Authors: Watanabe Kenji , Motoya Satoshi , Ogata Haruhiko , Kanai Takanori , Matsui Toshiyuki , Suzuki Yasuo , Shikamura Mitsuhiro , Sugiura Kenkichi , Oda Kazunori , Hori Tetsuharu , Araki Takahiro , Watanabe Mamoru , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: December 2019

Background

Vedolizumab is a gut-selective humanized antibody that binds the α4β7 integrin. We evaluated efficacy and safety of vedolizumab in Japanese patients with moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease (CD).

Methods

In this Phase 3, double-blind study (NCT02038920), 157 patients were randomized to receive intravenous vedolizumab 300 mg (n = 79) or placebo (n = 78) at Weeks 0, 2, and 6 (induction phase). Patients with CD activity index (CDAI)-70 response at Week 10 were randomized to receive vedolizumab 300 mg (n = 12) or placebo (n = 12) at Week 14, then every 8 weeks until Week 54 (maintenance phase). Primary endpoints were ≥ 100-point reduction in CDAI (CDAI-100 response) at Week 10 for induction, and clinical remission (CR: CDAI ≤ 150) at Week 60 for maintenance.

Results

At Week 10, 26.6% of patients who received vedolizumab and 16.7% who received placebo achieved CDAI-100 response (odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)] 1.80 [0.82–3.96]; p = 0.145). At Week 60, 41.7% of vedolizumab-treated patients and 16.7% of placebo-treated patients achieved CR (OR [95% CI] 3.57 [0.53–23.95]; p = 0.178). The incidence of adverse events was similar in both treatment groups in both induction and maintenance phases. In patients without prior anti-TNFα exposure or with inadequate response to anti-TNFα, vedolizumab showed improved outcomes over placebo in the induction phase. Age might be a possible predictive factor of CR for future research.

Conclusion

Vedolizumab showed a numerically greater efficacy versus placebo as induction therapy, but the difference was not statistically significant. Vedolizumab also showed a numerically greater efficacy in maintenance therapy, and was well tolerated.
Incipient Weathering of the ~74ka Young Toba Tuff (YTT) Biotite Grains, Sagileru Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Krishnan Geethanjali , Achyuthan Hema
Published: December 2019

The Young Toba Tuff (YTT) ash containing biotite flakes was once spread over the Indian peninsula, and is now exposed at several sites in the Sagileru river basin in Andhra Pradesh. The ash beds form a distinct marker horizon in the landscape and have been recognized in a variety of sedimentary sequences associated with middle Paleolithic archaeological tools. In the present study, biotite grains from the volcanic ash beds were separated that were collected from Vankamarri (VKM), Porumamilla (PRM) and Jammulamadugu (JMD), sites in the Sagileru river valley, Cuddapah, Andhra Pradesh. The biotite grains were separated to understand the state and stage of weathering since the ash deposition ~74ka. Electron microprobe data of the biotite grains exhibit low FeO/MgO values. The chemical discrimination diagrams characterizing the physicochemical properties of the biotite flakes from VKM, PRM and JMD sites indicate calc-alkaline composition and in the A–CN–K diagram, most of the samples fall above the plagioclase feldspar zone signifying low degree of alteration. Both the CIA and A-CN-K values depict the low weathering state of biotite, and this probably is owing to long periods of dry, semi-arid to arid climatic conditions since ~74ka. Scanning Electron microscope (SEM) of the biotite grains reveal micro and nanopores on the surface and many a times these coalesce to form curls along the edges of the biotite grains further supporting incipient but very early stage of biotite weathering since its deposition ~74ka.
Application of Principal Component Analysis and Correlation for Assessing Groundwater Contamination in and around Municipal Solid Waste Landfill of Ghazipur, Delhi
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Gupta N.C. , Kaur Amarjeet , Singh Khem
Published: December 2019

The present study has been executed to assess the groundwater quality and to investigate the possible sources of contamination in the adjoining areas of Ghazipur landfill site, Delhi. The groundwater samples were collected during pre and post monsoon seasons and various physico-chemical and heavy metals concentration were also analyzed. The results show that the samples which were taken adjacent to landfill site had a higher concentration of total dissolved solids (2383 mg/l), chloride (991mg/1), total hardness (659 mg/l), ammonical nitrogen (2.3mg/l), sodium (350 mg/l), calcium (534 mg/l) and sulphate (631 mg/l). Most of the heavy metals concentration in groundwater samples was found within the prescribed limit except Cu and Pb. The principal component analysis (PCA) extracted 3 factors which collectively explained 80.1% of the variation in data during post-monsoon whereas 75.4% of the variation in pre-monsoon season. The obtained results clearly show that K+, Mg2+, Na+, SO42-, and NO3- ions significantly contribute towards the high temporal pollution load to groundwater quality. Factor analysis also suggested that the continuous percolation of these contaminants from the nearby landfill could be the possible sources of contamination into groundwater aquifer system. The concentration of heavy metals in leachate have followed the order as- Fe>Zn>Cu>Pb>Ni>Cr>Cd. The overall result indicates that the landfill leachate is significantly affecting the nearby groundwater quality through continuous leaching over a long period of time. As the groundwater is used by some local residents for domestic purposes, immediate action and alternative effort should be made to supply clean water.
Studies on Uranium Hydrogeochemistry in Kamalavathi River Basin, Gulbarga and Yadgir Districts, Karnataka
Authors: Kouser Lubna , Raghavendra H.U. , Rao K.L. Narahari
Published: December 2019

Uranium is a radioactive element and its presence in ground water, used for human consumption, forms a serious societal issue. The present study, deals with the occurrence and geochemistry of uranium in the aquifers underlying parts of Gulbarga and Yadigir districts of Karnataka State. The study area is confined to Kamalavathi river basin, where groundwater is the major source for domestic use. High uranium (>30 ppb) is found in the north eastern part of the study area. The present study deals with the geochemistry of uranium in ground water of Kamalavathi river basin. The data was subjected to statistical analysis to understand the inter relationship between various elements. The 2D and 3D maps of groundwater flow directions and uranium concentrations were used to understand the variation of uranium concentration along the groundwater flow. Detailed uranium geochemistry and Eh-pH diagrams were used to understand the lithological controls on occurrence of uranium in groundwater.
Groundwater Quality Appraisal and its Hydrogeochemical Characterization — Mathura City, Western Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Ahmad Shamshaad , Umar Rashid , Arshad Ilma
Published: December 2019

In order to understand the hydrogeochemistry of Mathura city, western Uttar Pradesh a total of 92, 34 and 22 groundwater samples were collected from shallow, intermediate and deep wells during post-monsoon 2017 and pre-monsoon 2018 respectively and analyzed for major cations and anions. The groundwater of the study area is found to be alkaline in nature and is categorized as hard to very hard water type. Dominant facies deciphered from Piper’s trilinear diagram of shallow, intermediate wells are Na-K-Cl-SO4 and Ca-Mg-Cl-SO4 while deep well samples are Ca-Mg-Cl-SO4 type facies in post-monsoon 2017. During pre-monsoon 2018, the ionic facies for shallow, intermediate and deep well samples is Na-K-Cl-SO4 type with the exception of 7 samples of shallow well which shows Ca-Mg-Cl-SO4 type facies. Based on the water quality index (WQI) classification, majority of samples of shallow, intermediate and deep well fall in poor water category in both seasons. According to pollution index of groundwater (PIG) classification, majority of samples of all three depths showed low to moderate pollution in both the seasons. Saturation indices of minerals was also calculated by employing geochemical program PHREEQC. Groundwater at shallow depth possesses excess concentration of Ca, Na, K, and SO4, followed by inter-mediate and deeper depth samples of both seasons. Trace elements like As, Mo, Sr, and Zn show higher concentration in shallow depth samples followed by intermediate and deeper depth samples, except As which shows a reverse trend. This demonstrates that the groundwater from shallow wells is definitely more vulnerable to contamination. The study has revealed poor groundwater quality of Mathura city and noticeable influence of urbanization and industrialization on water quality.
Navigating Tensions About Resident Sexual Expression in Alberta’s Continuing Care Homes: a Qualitative Study of Leaders’ Experiences
Authors: Howard Lisa , Brassolotto Julia , Manduca-Barone Alessandro
Published: December 2019

Introduction

In continuing care homes, resident sexual expression is complicated by interpersonal, physical, and social features that are part of congregate living. Little is known about how managers navigate the complexities of these features.

Methods

We undertook a descriptive, exploratory study to pursue this line of inquiry. We conducted in-depth interviews with 28 participants from a network of managers, clinical ethicists, geriatric specialists, and social workers in Alberta, Canada.

Results

We present our findings as three dynamic tensions: 1) the tension between how sexual expression should be supported and how it is addressed in care homes; 2) the tension between private and public space in the care home; and 3) the tension between a medical model of care and a conceptualization of sexual expression as an activity of daily living.

Conclusions

These tensions are connected with sexual rights – specifically, with the rights to equality and non-discrimination, privacy, and autonomy and bodily integrity. Sexual expression can also have physical, social, and emotional benefits for continuing care residents. Thus, the tensions surrounding resident sexual expression ought to be navigated with an approach that acknowledges sexual rights and best upholds them.

Policy Implications

We suggest that in order to realize the benefits and prevent the harms associated with resident sexual expression, there is both need and opportunity for a coordinated, multi-level approach.
Investigation of trapezoidal sharp-crested side weir discharge coefficients under subcritical flow regimes using CFD
Authors: Ghaderi Amir , Dasineh Mehdi , Abbasi Saeed , Abraham John
Published: December 2019

Side weirs are utilized to regulate water surface and to control discharge and water elevation in rivers and channels. Here, the discharge coefficient for trapezoidal sharp-crested side weirs (TSCSW) and their affecting parameters are numerically investigated. To simulate the hydraulic and geometric characteristics of TSCSWs, three weir crest lengths of 15 cm, 20 cm and 30 cm with lengths of 20 cm, 30 cm and 40 cm and with two different sidewall slopes are utilized. The results show that for constant P/B (P: weir height, B: main channel width), the depth of flow along the channel and weir decreases as the crest length increases. Also, with increasing P/y1 ratio (P: weir height, y1: upstream flow depth), the discharge coefficient decreases for small crest lengths and increases for large crest lengths. The results show that for constant T/L ratio (T: passing flow width, L: side weir crest length), increasing the length, height and sidewall slope of a side weir will increase the discharge coefficient. It is observed that as the upstream Froude number increases for side weirs with longer crest lengths, the intensity of deviating flow and kinetic energy over the TSCSW will increase. Finally, some relations with high correlation factors are proposed for obtaining discharge coefficients using the dimensionless parameters of P/y1, T/L and Fr1. Based on proposed relations and sensitivity analysis, it is shown that T/L and P/y1 are the most effective parameters for reducing the discharge coefficient reduction.
Petrophysical interpretation in shaly sand formation of a gas field in Tanzania
Authors: Mkinga Oras Joseph , Skogen Erik , Kleppe Jon
Published: December 2019

An onshore gas field (hereafter called theRfield—real name not revealed) is in the southeast coast of Tanzania which includes a Tertiary aged shaly sand formation (sand–shale sequences). The formation was penetrated by an exploration wellR–Xwherein no core was acquired, and there is no layer-wise published data of the petrophysical properties of theRfield in the existing literature, which are essential to reserves estimation and production forecast. In this paper, the layer-wise interpretation of petrophysical properties was undertaken by using wireline logs to obtain parameters to build a reservoir simulation model. The properties extracted include shale volume, total and effective porosities, sand fractions and sand porosity, and water saturation. Shale volume was computed using Clavier equation from gamma ray. Density method was used to calculate total and effective porosities. Thomas–Stieber method was used to determine sand porosity and sand fraction, and water saturation was computed using Poupon–Leveaux model. The statistics of the parameters extracted are presented, where shale volume obtained that varies with zones is between 6 and 54% volume fraction, with both shale laminations and dispersed shale were identified. Total porosity obtained is in a range from 12 to 22%. Sand porosity varies between 15 and 25%, and sand fraction varies between 33 and 93% height fraction. Average water saturation obtained is between 32 and 49% volume fraction.
Student participation in undergraduate medical education: a continuous collective endeavour
Authors: Meeuwissen Stephanie N. E. , Whittingham Jill R. D.
Published: December 2019

None
Measured as the water flows: the striated and smooth in marine spatial planning
Authors: Jay Stephen
Published: December 2019

Marine spatial planning (MSP) now has a sufficient history for consideration of the way in which MSP processes are developing over time, gaining experience and responding to issues that arise. Rather than setting a study of this kind in the well-established framework of adaptive management, I choose instead a spatial concept that allows planning action to be more closely meshed with the nature of the marine setting itself, that of Deleuze and Guatarri’s notion of striated and smooth spaces. This suggests that there are two different manners in which space is produced, which are interdependent and interchanging and work together in making progress; this has certain resonances with the materiality of the sea. I use this concept in a reading of an MSP process with a relatively long pedigree, that of the Shetland Islands, Scotland, UK, focusing particularly on the development of aquaculture policy, through analysis of a sequence of documents. The study reveals that policy-making is suffused with striated and smooth spatialities, finding expression on the one hand in development criteria and other regulations, and on the other hand, in discretion, negotiation and opportunity-building, with the two yielding to each other and advancing together with their different types of movement. This suggests a more general manner by which MSP processes may progress, by spatial dialectic of this kind, in which those who practice MSP engage through their own reasoning of the natural and human structures and dynamisms of the coasts and seas and their responsive plan-making.
Explaining the competitive advantage generated from Analytics with the knowledge-based view: the example of Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Authors: Herden Tino T.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theory-based explanation for the generation of competitive advantage from Analytics and to examine this explanation with evidence from confirmatory case studies. A theoretical argumentation for achieving sustainable competitive advantage from knowledge unfolding in the knowledge-based view forms the foundation for this explanation. Literature about the process of Analytics initiatives, surrounding factors, and conditions, and benefits from Analytics are mapped onto the knowledge-based view to derive propositions. Eight confirmatory case studies of organizations mature in Analytics were collected, focused on Logistics and Supply Chain Management. A theoretical framework explaining the creation of competitive advantage from Analytics is derived and presented with an extensive description and rationale. This highlights various aspects outside of the analytical methods contributing to impactful and successful Analytics initiatives. Thereby, the relevance of a problem focus and iterative solving of the problem, especially with incorporation of user feedback, is justified and compared to other approaches. Regarding expertise, the advantage of cross-functional teams over data scientist centric initiatives is discussed, as well as modes and reasons of incorporating external expertise. Regarding the deployment of Analytics solutions, the importance of consumability, users assuming responsibility of incorporating solutions into their processes, and an innovation promoting culture (as opposed to a data-driven culture) are described and rationalized. Further, this study presents a practical manifestation of the knowledge-based view.
Theoretical description of drawing body shape in an inclined seam with longwall top coal caving mining
Authors: Wang Jiachen , Wei Weijie , Zhang Jinwang
Published: December 2019

Understanding the characteristics of drawing body shape is essential for optimization of drawing parameters in longwall top coal caving mining. In this study, both physical experiments and theoretical analysis are employed to investigate these characteristics and derive a theoretical equation for the drawing body shape along the working face in an inclined seam. By analyzing the initial positions of drawn marked particles, the characteristics of the drawing body shape for different seam dip angles are obtained. It is shown that the drawing body of the top coal exhibits a shape-difference and volume-symmetry characteristic, on taking a vertical line through the center of support opening as the axis of symmetry, the shapes of the drawing body on the two sides of this axis are clearly different, but their volumes are equal. By establishing theoretical models of the drawing body in the initial drawing stage and the normal drawing stage, a theoretical equation for the drawing body in an inclined seam is proposed, which can accurately describe the characteristics of the drawing body shape. The shape characteristics and volume symmetry of the drawing body are further analyzed by comparing the results of theoretical calculations and numerical simulations. It is shown that one side of the drawing body is divided into two parts by an inflection point, with the lower part being a variation development area. This variation development area increases gradually with increasing seam dip angle, resulting in an asymmetry of the drawing body shape. However, the volume symmetry coefficient fluctuates around 1 for all values of the seam dip angle variation, and the volumes of the drawing body on the two sides are more or less equal as the variation development volume is more or less equal to the cut volume. Both theoretical calculations and numerical simulations confirm that the drawing body of the top coal exhibits the shape-difference and volume-symmetry characteristic.
Popular peer norms and adolescent sexting behavior
Authors: Maheux Anne J. , Evans Reina , Widman Laura , Nesi Jacqueline , Prinstein Mitchell J. , Choukas‐Bradley Sophia
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Adolescents misperceive and are heavily influenced by the behavior of their popular peers, yet research has not yet investigated this phenomenon for a relatively new and potentially risky behavior: adolescent sexting. The present study investigates rates of sexting among popular and non‐popular adolescents and the association between adolescents' perceptions of popular peers’ sexting behavior and their own sexting behavior.

Methods

A school‐based sample of 626 adolescents from a rural high school in the Southeastern U.S. (Mage = 17.4, 53.5% female) completed surveys indicating whether they had sent a sext in the past year. Participants also reported on perceptions of popular peers’ sexting behavior and completed sociometric nominations of peer status.

Results

While 87.4% of adolescents believed the typical popular boy or girl in their class had sent a sext in the past year, only 62.5% of popular adolescents had actually sent a sext. There was no significant difference between rates of sexting among popular and non‐popular (54.8%) adolescents. After adjusting for gender and sexual activity status, adolescents who believed that the typical popular peer sent a sext were over ten times more likely to have also sexted in the past year. Among adolescents who believed their popular peers had not sexted, girls were more likely than boys to have sexted themselves; however, this gender difference disappeared among adolescents who believed their popular peers had sexted.

Conclusions

These results underscore the importance of peer status and perceptions of peer norms in adolescents’ sexting.
How 3D Virtual Reality Stores Can Shape Consumer Purchase Decisions: The Roles of Informativeness and Playfulness
Authors: Kang Hyo Jeong , Shin Jung-hye , Ponto Kevin
Published: December 2019

The recent rise of consumer virtual reality (VR) hardware raises important questions in the field of online marketing: what makes 3D VR more informative and playful than conventional 2D media such as a still image and a video, and how it affects the online purchase decision-making process. In this study, we mainly focus on three interface features—interactivity, visual–spatial cues, and graphics quality. We explore how each of these three interface features enhances playfulness and informativeness of shopping interface and further influences subsequent product evaluation and purchase intention. The results of the study provide two meaningful insights. First, interactivity and visual–spatial cues significantly enhance perceived informativeness and playfulness; however, the role of graphics quality was found to be more critical for 2D displays than for 3D VR environment. Second, informativeness and playfulness influence the purchase decision-making process in distinct ways. More specifically, a playful interface may enhance consumers’ preference for hedonic product benefits (e.g., a stylish and attractive design), whereas informativeness is a more important explanatory variable for subsequent purchase intentions. We discuss the theoretical contribution and managerial insights the research provides for online retailers and designers.
Recurrent glomangioma (“true” glomus tumor) of the middle ear and mastoid
Authors: Kaufman Adam C. , Brant Jason A. , Luu Neil N. , LiVolsi Virginia A. , Bigelow Douglas C.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To review current literature and experience with glomangiomas, or true glomus tumors of the middle ear and mastoid as well asto report on the exceptionally rare case of a glomangiomastemming from the middle ear space with multiple recurrences.

Methods

Review of existing world literature and description of personal experience with rare cases of a glomangioma of the middle ear and mastoid.

Results

Review of existing literature revealed two cases of patients presenting with tinnitus and hearing loss refractory to medical management. Both patients were ultimately diagnosed with glomangioma on histopathology. Complete surgical excision is thought to be curative.

Patient

A 36‐year‐old woman presented with a rare case of a glomangioma of the middle ear presenting with unilateral hearing loss. She was noted to have a mass behind the tympanic membrane. Imaging revealed a diffuse mass filling the mastoid air cells. Imaging characteristics and histology were consistent with a glomangioma.

Intervention

Initial resection via mastoidectomy using a postauricular approach. The tympanic membrane was reconstructed with temporalis tissue. Follow‐up revision tympanomastoidectomy was performed upon recurrence of disease. The chorda tympani were sacrificed due to tumor involvement. The incus and head of the malleus were removed to gain better access to the tumor. The ossicular chain was reconstructed with a Goldenberg Total Ossicular Prosthesis.

Main outcome measure

Recurrence of disease.

Follow‐up

In the 67 months since her most recent surgery, there has been no evidence of recurrence by CT or physical exam.

Conclusion

Glomangioma of the middle ear represents an exceptionally rare entity that can present in a similar fashion to a paraganglioma.
Disclosure for real humans
Authors: PAGE LIONEL
Published: December 2019

Modern consumers typically face complex goods and services. In the interest of customer protection, these companies are asked to disclose information about the products and consumers are typically required to indicate their understanding of the information provided. In truth, consumers seldom consult, even less understand the information provided. I present here the state of evidence about how commercial disclosure actually works (or rather does not work) with consumers characterized with human limitations in information processing. I discuss ways to improve disclosure regulation to improve customer protection.
Clusters of nontuberculous mycobacteria linked to water sources at three Veterans Affairs medical centers
Authors: Oda Gina , Winters Mark A. , Pacheco Susan M. , Sikka Monica K. , Bleasdale Susan C. , Dunn Bruce , Boswell Erin , Winters Benjamin , Bumsted Amelia , Frisch Jennifer , Holodniy Mark
Published: December 2019

Objective:

To characterize nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) associated with case clusters at 3 medical facilities.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study using molecular typing of patient and water isolates.

Setting:

Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs).

Methods:

Isolation and identification of NTM from clinical and water samples using culture, MALDI-TOF, and gene population sequencing to determine species and genetic relatedness. Clinical data were abstracted from electronic health records.

Results:

An identical strain of Mycobacterium conceptionense was isolated from 41 patients at VA Medical Centers (VAMCs A, B, and D), and from VAMC A’s ICU ice machine. Isolates were initially identified as other NTM species within the M. fortuitum clade. Sequencing analyses revealed that they were identical M. conceptionense strains. Overall, 7 patients (17%) met the criteria for pulmonary or nonpulmonary infection with NTM, and 13 of 41 (32%) were treated with effective antimicrobials regardless of infection or colonization status. Separately, a M. mucogenicum patient strain from VAMC A matched a strain isolated from a VAMC B ICU ice machine. VAMC C, in a different state, had a 4-patient cluster with Mycobacterium porcinum. Strains were identical to those isolated from sink-water samples at this facility.

Conclusion:

NTM from hospital water systems are found in hospitalized patients, often during workup for other infections, making attribution of NTM infection problematic. Variable NTM identification methods and changing taxonomy create challenges for epidemiologic investigation and linkage to environmental sources.
A Storm of Tweets: Social Media Manipulation During the Gulf Crisis
Authors: Leber Andrew , Abrahams Alexei
Published: December 2019

Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter were heralded circa 2009–2011 as ‘liberation technology’ that would facilitate mass mobilization against Middle Eastern authoritarians. In this article, however, we present evidence from the ongoing Gulf Crisis (2017-present) that regimes can now exploit Twitter as an outlet for political propaganda. Drawing in part on novel data collected by the authors, we present strong evidence of state actors manipulating discourse on Twitter through direct intervention, offline coercion or co-optation of existing social-media “influencers,” and the mass production of online statements via automated “bot” accounts. We further present evidence that this manipulation is aimed at securing organic participation from supportive publics.
Association of infant and young child feeding practices with cognitive development at 10–12 years: a birth cohort in rural Western China
Authors: Zhu Zhonghai , Cheng Yue , Qi Qi , Lu Yu , Ma Siyuan , Li Shaoru , Li Hongbo , Elhoumed Mohamed , Tsegaye Sintayehu , Fawzi Wafaie W. , Sudfeld Christopher R. , Yan Hong , Dibley Michael J. , Zeng Lingxia
Published: December 2019

We aimed to comprehensively examine the association of breast-feeding, types and initial timing of complementary foods with adolescent cognitive development in low- and middle-income countries. We conducted a prospective cohort study of 745 adolescents aged 10–12 years who were born to women who participated in a randomised trial of prenatal micronutrient supplementation in rural Western China. An infant feeding index was constructed based on the current WHO recommendations. Full-scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) was assessed and derived by the fourth edition of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. The duration of exclusive or any breast-feeding was not significantly associated with adolescent cognitive development. Participants who regularly consumed Fe-rich or Fe-fortified foods during 6–23 months of age had higher FSIQ than those who did not (adjusted mean differences 4·25; 95 % CI 1·99, 6·51). For cows’/goats’ milk and high protein-based food, the highest FSIQ was found in participants who initially consumed at 10–12 and 7–9 months, respectively. A strong dose–response relationship of the composite infant feeding index was also identified, with participants in the highest tertile of overall feeding quality having 3·03 (95 % CI 1·37, 4·70) points higher FSIQ than those in the lowest tertile. These findings suggest that appropriate infant feeding practices (breast-feeding plus timely introduction of appropriate complementary foods) were associated with significantly improved early adolescent cognitive development scores in rural China. In addition, improvement in Fe-rich or Fe-fortified foods complementary feeding may produce better adolescent cognitive development outcomes.
Enhanced Arctic-Tethys connectivity ended the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event in NW Europe
Authors: van de Schootbrugge B. , Houben A. J. P. , Ercan F. E. Z. , Verreussel R. , Kerstholt S. , Janssen N. M. M. , Nikitenko B. , Suan G.
Published: December 2019

The Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T-OAE, c. 182 Ma) represents a major perturbation of the carbon cycle marked by widespread black shale deposition. Consequently, the onset of the T-OAE has been linked to the combined effects of global warming, high productivity, basin restriction and salinity stratification. However, the processes that led to termination of the event remain elusive. Here, we present palynological data from Arctic Siberia (Russia), the Viking Corridor (offshore Norway) and the Yorkshire Coast (UK), all spanning the upper Pliensbachian – upper Toarcian stages. Rather than a ‘dinoflagellate cyst black-out’, as recorded in T-OAE strata of NW Europe, both the Arctic and Viking Corridor records show high abundance and dinoflagellate diversity throughout the T-OAE interval as calibrated by C-isotope records. Significantly, in the Arctic Sea and Viking Corridor, numerous species of the Parvocysta and Phallocysta suites make their first appearance in the lower Toarcian Falciferum Zone much earlier than in Europe, where these key dinoflagellate species appeared suddenly during the Bifrons Zone. Our results indicate migrations of Arctic dinoflagellate species, driven by relative sea-level rise in the Viking Corridor and the establishment of a S-directed circulation from the Arctic Sea into the Tethys Ocean. The results support oceanographic models, but are at odds with some interpretations based on geochemical proxies. The migration of Arctic dinoflagellate species coincides with the end of the T-OAE and marks the arrival of oxygenated, low-salinity Arctic waters, triggering a regime change from persistent euxinia to more dynamic oxygen conditions.
The early history and development of functional endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Kane K J
Published: December 2019

Background

The concept of endoscopic diagnosis and procedures on the nasal cavity had been investigated for several decades in Europe in the early part of the twentieth century. It was Prof Walter Messerklinger and his assistant, Heinz Stammberger, with US colleague, David Kennedy, who brought the science and technique of functional endoscopic sinus surgery to the wider world.

Methods

The author, an English-speaking surgeon, was present at this movement from the commencement of its propagation, and has recorded the remarkable ascendency of this technique throughout the world.

Conclusion

The technique revolutionised the diagnosis and management of intranasal, sinus and intracranial conditions.
HEROÍNA: Drug or hero? Meaning-dependent valence norms for ambiguous Spanish words
Authors: Huete-Pérez Daniel , Haro Juan , Fraga Isabel , Ferré Pilar
Published: December 2019

Semantically ambiguous and emotional words occur frequently in language, and the different meanings of ambiguous words can sometimes have different emotional loads. For example, the Spanish word heroína (heroin/heroine) can refer to a drug or to a woman who performs a heroic act. Because both ambiguity and emotionality affect word processing, there is a need for normative databases that include data on the emotionality of the different meanings of such words. Thus far, no bases of this type are available in Spanish. With this in mind, the current study will present meaning-dependent affective (valence) ratings for 252 Spanish ambiguous words. The analyses performed show that (a) among ambiguous words, those words with meanings that have distinct affective valence are quite frequent, (b) ambiguous words rated as neutral in isolation can have meanings of opposite valence (i.e., negative-positive or positive-negative), and (c) the valence estimated for ambiguous words in isolation is better explained by the weighted average of the valence of their meanings by dominance. A database of this kind can be useful both for basic research (e.g., relationship between emotion and language and ambiguity processing) and for applied research (e.g., cognitive and emotional biases in emotional disorders and second language learning).
Measles and rubella seroprevalence among adults in Georgia in 2015: helping guide the elimination efforts
Authors: Khetsuriani N. , Chitadze N. , Russell S. , Ben Mamou M.
Published: December 2019

A large-scale measles outbreak (11 495 reported cases, 60% aged ≥15 years) occurred in Georgia during 2013–2015. A nationwide, multistage, stratified cluster serosurvey for hepatitis B and C among persons aged ≥18 years conducted in Georgia in late 2015 provided an opportunity to assess measles and rubella (MR) susceptibility after the outbreak. Residual specimens from 3125 participants aged 18–50 years were tested for Immunoglobulin G antibodies against MR using ELISA. Nationwide, 6.3% (95% CI 4.9%–7.6%) of the surveyed population were seronegative for measles and 8.6% (95% CI 7.1%–10.1%) were seronegative for rubella. Measles susceptibility was highest among 18–24 year-olds (10.1%) and declined with age to 1.2% among 45–50 year-olds (P< 0.01). Susceptibility to rubella was highest among 25–29 year-olds (15.3%), followed by 18–24 year-olds (11.6%) and 30–34 year-olds (10.2%), and declined to <5% among persons aged ≥35 years (P< 0.001). The susceptibility profiles in the present serosurvey were consistent with the epidemiology of recent MR cases and the history of the immunization programme. Measles susceptibility levels >10% among 18–24 year-olds in Georgia revealed continued risk for outbreaks among young adults. High susceptibility to rubella among 18–34 year-olds indicates a continuing risk for congenital rubella cases.