bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Development in the Name of Protecting the Environment in Rural China: The Case of the Swan Islet National Nature Reserves
Authors: Zhang Jiayan
Published: May 2020

Swan Islet, located in the old course of the Yangzi River in Shishou, Hubei, central China, was chosen as a nature reserve first to conserve milu 麋鹿 (Père David’s deer) in 1987 and white-fin dolphins 白鱀豚 in 1992. The local government then built dikes to protect this area from the annual high water of the Yangzi River, which turned a considerable amount of riverside wasteland into reclaimable land attractive to the local farmers. At the same time, more land was needed to feed the fast-growing herds of milu. In the river, dolphins and fisherfolk compete for resources. Different interests have caused conflicts between the government, farmers, and fisherfolk. Conflicts between governmental bureaus has made things even more complicated. With the increasing appeal of wetland preservation, the local government added wetland preservation to its agenda and applied for financial support from upper-level governments. Attempting to lure tourists with milu—a “national treasure”—and original wetlands, the local government is hoping to promote eco-tourism and eventually to boost local economic growth, all in the name of protecting the environment.
A Technique for Seamless Forecast Construction and Validation from Weather to Monthly Time Scales
Authors: Dirmeyer Paul A. , Ford Trent W.
Published: May 2020

Seamless prediction means bridging discrete short-term weather forecasts valid at a specific time and time-averaged forecasts at longer periods. Subseasonal predictions span this time range and must contend with this transition. Seamless forecasts and seamless validation methods go hand-in-hand. Time-averaged forecasts often feature a verification window that widens in time with growing forecast leads. Ideally, a smooth transition across daily to monthly time scales would provide true seamlessness—a generalized approach is presented here to accomplish this. We discuss prior attempts to achieve this transition with individual weighting functions before presenting the two-parameter Hill equation as a general weighting function to blend discrete and time-averaged forecasts, achieving seamlessness. The Hill equation can be tuned to specify the lead time at which the discrete forecast loses dominance to time-averaged forecasts, as well as the swiftness of the transition with lead time. For this application, discrete forecasts are defined at any lead time using a Kronecker delta weighting, and any time-averaged weighting approach can be used at longer leads. Time-averaged weighting functions whose averaging window widens with lead time are used. Example applications are shown for deterministic and ensemble forecasts and validation and a variety of validation metrics, along with sensitivities to parameter choices and a discussion of caveats. This technique aims to counterbalance the natural increase in uncertainty with forecast lead. It is not meant to construct forecasts with the highest skill, but to construct forecasts with the highest utility across time scales from weather to subseasonal in a single seamless product.
Prediction of Tornado-Like Vortex (TLV) Embedded in the 8 May 2003 Oklahoma City Tornadic Supercell Initialized from the Subkilometer Grid Spacing Analysis Produced by the Dual-Resolution GSI-Based EnVar Data Assimilation System
Authors: Wang Yongming , Wang Xuguang
Published: May 2020

Explicit forecasts of a tornado-like vortex (TLV) require subkilometer grid spacing because of their small size. Most previous TLV prediction studies started from interpolated kilometer grid spacing initial conditions (ICs) rather than subkilometer grid spacing ICs. The tornadoes embedded in the 8 May 2003 Oklahoma City tornadic supercell are used to understand the impact of IC resolution on TLV predictions. Two ICs at 500-m and 2-km grid spacings are, respectively, produced through an efficient dual-resolution (DR) and a single-coarse-resolution (SCR) EnVar ingesting a 2-km ensemble. Both experiments launch 1-h forecasts at 500-m grid spacing. Diagnostics of data assimilation (DA) cycling reveal DR produces stronger and broader rear-flank cold pools, more intense downdrafts and updrafts with finer scales, and more hydrometeors at high altitudes through accumulated differences between two DA algorithms. Relative differences in DR, compared to SCR, include the integration from higher-resolution analyses, the update for higher-resolution backgrounds, and the propagation of ensemble perturbations along higher-resolution model trajectory. Predictions for storm morphology and cold pools are more realistic in DR than in SCR. The DR-TLV tracks match better with the observed tornado tracks than SCR-TLV in timing of intensity variation, and in duration. Additional experiments suggest 1) the analyzed kinematic variables strongly influence timing of intensity variation through affecting both low-level rear-flank outflow and midlevel updraft; 2) potential temperature analysis by DR extends the second track’s duration consistent with enhanced low-level stretching, delayed broadening large-scale downdraft, and (or) increased near-surface baroclinic vorticity supply; and 3) hydrometeor analyses have little impact on TLV predictions.
The Stigma of Addiction and Effects on Community Perceptions of Procedural Justice in Drug Treatment Courts
Authors: Berryessa Colleen M. , Krenzer William L. D.
Published: May 2020

We present a series of four between-subject, multifactorial experiments that examine how labeling offenders with addiction, as well as if that psychiatric label is described to be biologically influenced, may affect community perceptions regarding the importance of procedural justice in drug treatment courts. Stigmatization toward addiction is hypothesized to moderate community views on procedural justice. Labeling with addiction garnered nonsignificant effects on community perceptions of the importance of procedural justice in drug treatment courts. Yet, patterns of moderation analyses indicated that participants with higher degrees of stigmatization toward an offender with addiction, and particularly if that psychiatric label was also described to be biologically influenced, rated the importance of offenders experiencing aspects of procedural justice as significantly higher. Higher degrees of public stigmatization associated with the “brain disease model” of addiction appear to coexist with increased community support for offenders with such labels experiencing increased procedural justice and fairness.
Gastropolitical encounters and the political life of sensation
Authors: Low Kelvin E. Y.
Published: May 2020

Food as a political object has been pivotal in defining the political and socioeconomic positioning of political leaders across many different countries. Instrumentalised as a diplomatic tool to enhance and maintain economic and international relations, food as gifts and acts of commensality are routinely built into the pursuit and maintenance of local and foreign policy, which points to both the materiality and sensoriality of gastrodiplomacy. This is, however, a realm of analysis that is fairly incipient in sensory scholarship. I make conceptual connections between food, senses and political life by proposing the notion of political gustemology, and by developing conceptual parameters in explicating the political life of sensation. In directing attention to sensory aspects of gastropolitical encounters, the article departs from extant works on gastrodiplomacy and provides a newer framework and insight to apprehend the embodied and sensory features of political episodes in everyday life.
Three-dimensional simulation of warp knitted structures based on geometric unit cell of loop yarns
Authors: Ji Yong , Jiang Gaoming , Tang Mengting , Mao Ningtao , Wang He
Published: May 2020

Warp knitted fabrics are typically three-dimensional (3D) structures, and their design is strongly dependent on the structural simulation. Most of existing simulation methods are only capable of two-dimensional (2D) modeling, which lacks perceptual realism and cannot show design defects, making it hard for manufacturers to produce the required fabrics. The few existing methods capable of 3D structural simulation are computationally demanding and therefore can only run on powerful computers, which makes it hard to utilize online platforms (e.g. clouds, mobile devices, etc.) for simulation and design communication. To fill the gap, a novel, lightweight and agile geometric representation of warp knitting loops is proposed to establish a new framework of 3D simulation of complex warp knitted structures. Further, the new representation has great simplicity, flexibility and versatility and is used to build high-level models in representing the 3D structures of warp knitted fabrics with complex topologies. Simulations of a variety of warp knitted fabrics are presented to demonstrate the capacity and generalizability of this newly proposed methodology. It has also been used in virtual design of warp knitted fabrics in wireless mobile devices for digital manufacture and provides a functional reference model based on this simplified unit cell of warp knitted loops to simulate more realistic 3D warp knitted fabrics.
Life prediction of lithium-ion battery based on a hybrid model
Authors: Chen Xu-Dong , Yang Hai-Yue , Wun Jhang-Shang , Wang Ching-Hsin , Li Ling-Ling
Published: May 2020

Lithium battery is a new energy equipment. Because of its long service life and high energy density, it is widely used in various industries. However, as the number of uses increases, the life of the energy battery gradually decreases. Aging of battery will bring security risks to energy storage system. Through the life prediction of energy lithium battery, the health status of energy battery is assessed, so as to improve the safety of energy storage system. Therefore, a hybrid model is proposed to predict the life of the energy lithium battery. The lithium-ion battery capacity data are always divided into two scales, which are predicted by extreme learning machine and support vector machine model. The energy lithium-ion battery capacity attenuation data were obtained through experiments. The original signal is decomposed into five layers by using the wavelet basis function to denoise the signal. Finally, the denoised signal is synthesized. The noise reduction effect of each wavelet was analyzed. The analysis results show that the mean square error value of the Haar wavelet is 5.31e-28, which indicates that the Haar wavelet has the best noise reduction effect. Finally, the combined model was tested by using two sets of experiments. The prediction results of the combined model are compared with those of the single model. The test results show that the prediction results of the combined model are better than the single model for either experiment 1 or experiment 2. Experiment 1 indicated the root mean square error values are 29.58 and 79.68% smaller than the root mean square error values of extreme learning machine and support vector machine. The model proposed in this study has positive significance for the safety improvement of energy storage system and can promote the development and utilization of energy resources.
Plastic Flowers: Overlooking Resource Scarcity in Postwar America
Authors: Gupta-Nigam Anirban
Published: May 2020

This essay historicizes cultural and psychic economies in the postwar United States under the sign of material scarcity. It situates the proliferation of plastic flowers in domestic space within a context of bureaucratic anxieties surrounding natural resource scarcity, and trends toward ‘outdoor living’ that were an offshoot of the ideology of economic growth. Interrogating repeated, if relatively unexamined, invocations of ‘anxious’ suburban subjects in descriptions of postwar society, the essay suggests that plastic flowers shored up a sense of stability and permanence at a time when nuclear annihilation, Cold War paranoia, and population growth combined to render life uncertain and potentially unsustainable. The essay concludes by reflecting on how legacies of that epoch – and the fiction of permanence offered by plastic flowers – endure in contemporary fantasies of limitless progress.
A dyadic approach to attachment anxiety and avoidance, marital conflict, and drinking
Authors: Rodriguez Lindsey M. , Gius Becky K. , Derrick Jaye L. , Leonard Kenneth E.
Published: May 2020

In this research, we integrate attachment theory and dyadic methodology to examine how attachment anxiety and avoidance might interact with marital conflict to influence alcohol consumption, drinking motives, and alcohol-related problems in a sample of 280 married and cohabiting couples over 3 years. Both husband and wife attachment anxiety were related to higher levels of own drinking to cope and alcohol-related problems. Additionally, both husband and wife reports of marital conflict were associated with own alcohol-related problems. For wives, significant interactions between anxiety and marital conflict suggested that anxiety was more strongly associated with alcohol consumption, coping, and problems at higher levels of conflict. For husbands, significant interactions between avoidance and conflict indicated that avoidance was more strongly associated with coping and problems at lower levels of conflict. This research suggests two main patterns of attachment and alcohol use, both exacerbated by marital conflict and different for husbands and wives.
Association between heel-rise test performance and clinical severity of chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Pereira Danielle Aparecida Gomes , Furtado Sheyla Rossana Cavalcanti , Amâncio Gisele Pereira de Oliveira , Zuba Priscila Penasso , Coelho Cristiane Cenachi , de Lima Ana Paula , Carvalho Maria Luiza Vieira , Monteiro Débora Pantuso
Published: May 2020

Background

Peripheral pump dysfunction is important in identifying manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency. The association with disease severity may define better treatment strategies.

Objective

To evaluate the association between peripheral muscular pump performance by heel-rise test, age, physical activity, use of compression stockings, and chronic venous insufficiency clinical severity.

Methods

Subjects with chronic venous insufficiency were enrolled in the study ( n = 172) and evaluated by clinical–etiology–anatomy–pathophysiology severity and heel-rise test.

Results

In model 1 of logistic regression, number of heel-rise test repetitions, age, and physical activity explained 47% of clinical–etiology–anatomy–pathophysiology severity ( p = 0.0001), physical activity contributed the most. In model 2, heel-rise test repetition rate, age, and physical activity explained 46.4% of clinical–etiology–anatomy–pathophysiology severity ( p = 0.0001), repetition rate contributed the most. Conclusion: There was an inverse association between muscular pump performance and physical activity with clinical–etiology–anatomy–pathophysiology severity, muscular pump repetition rate contributed to a less severe outcome.
Incorporating Pavement Smoothness Benefits to Enhance the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Pavement Type Determination Process
Authors: Grogg Max , Smith Kelly , Williges Chris , Schram Scott
Published: May 2020

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)’s Pavement Policy as codified in 23 CFR 626 states, “Pavement shall be designed to accommodate current and predicted traffic needs in a safe, durable, and cost effective manner” to be eligible for federal highway funding. To meet this requirement, state highway agencies have developed pavement type determination (PTD) policies, also known as pavement type selection, and implemented pavement management. Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT)’s PTD has been in place for many years; but in 2018, Iowa DOT looked at enhancing their PTD process to address gaps between past practice and best practice. Among the enhancements, user benefit as defined by pavement smoothness was utilized when net present value (NPV) alone could not definitively distinguish a preferred alternative. The smoothness benefit would become the divisor in a cost–benefit (C/B) ratio that would be used to determine the preferred alternate for the PTD. The cost portion of the ratio would remain the NPV of agency costs for the construction and projected rehabilitations during the analysis period. After a literature review and interviews of comparable state DOTs, several modifications to Iowa DOT’s PTD and the C/B ratio were analyzed and adopted. The modifications range from accepted practice changes, such as the use of a longer analysis period (50 years), to unconventional techniques, such as the consideration of smoothness. Iowa DOT believes these changes provide a more robust PTD. They are also considering additional improvements based upon additional research and policy making.
Durability Aspects of Chemically Stabilized Quarry By-Product Applications in Pavement Base and Subbase
Authors: Qamhia Issam I. A. , Tutumluer Erol , Ozer Hasan , Boler Huseyin , Shoup Heather , Stolba Andrew J.
Published: May 2020

Recent research conducted at the Illinois Center for Transportation evaluated sustainable applications of quarry by-products (QB) or QB blended with coarse recycled aggregates in chemically stabilized base and subbase layers in flexible pavements and proved that stabilized QB pavement applications show satisfactory pavement performance. This paper investigates the durability aspects of the evaluated QB applications, particularly in relation to freezing–thawing cycles during winter and wetting–drying conditions. Durability tests were conducted on samples extracted from field test sections previously evaluated with accelerated pavement testing (APT) as well as on new samples prepared in the laboratory with the same QB types and material combinations. Field-extracted samples were exposed to multiple cycles of freezing and thawing and wetting and drying throughout APT. Both sets of samples were evaluated by AASHTO T 135 and AASHTO T 136 for wet–dry and freeze–thaw durability, respectively. The results of durability testing indicated that cement-stabilized QB materials benefited from the long-term curing in the field, whereas fly ash-stabilized QB materials were less durable after exposure to multiple freeze–thaw and wet–dry cycles in the field. Field samples compacted at or near the maximum dry density (i.e., having higher relative densities) consistently showed better performance for durability. Further, durability samples made with QB materials from dolomitic aggregate sources, having higher magnesium oxide content in chemical composition, showed better field performances than those with limestone QB having high calcium oxide content. This was possibly linked to cementation observed in the dolomitic QB applications after being exposed to freeze–thaw cycles in three winters.
Comparing Math LD Diagnostic Rates Obtained Using LDAC and DSM-5 Criteria: Implications for the Field
Authors: Schroeder Meadow , Drefs Michelle A. , Zwiers Michael
Published: May 2020

Within the Canadian context, the two major learning disability classification systems are arguably the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the Learning Disabilities Association (LDAC) of Canada’s Official Definition of Learning Disabilities. Several of the more recent changes to the fifth edition of the DSM contrast with the LDAC definition, which establishes them as competing diagnostic frameworks. We investigated the frequency of math learning disability identification when both the LDAC and DSM-5 criteria were modelled and applied to an archived data set (2011–2016). Results support generally similar percentages of math learning disability cases identified when employing LDAC or DSM-5 criteria; however, the two methods identified a different set of cases. Implications for using DSM-5 versus LDAC criteria in diagnosing learning disabilities are discussed, including the need to consider adopting a national diagnostic standard.
Analyzing processing quality of machine tools via processed product: Example of ball valve processing machine
Authors: Chen Kuen-Suan , Chen Der-Fa , Huang Ming-Chieh , Chang Tsang-Chuan
Published: May 2020

Machine tools are fundamental equipment in industrial production, and their processing quality exerts a direct impact on the quality of the component product that they process. Thus, machine tool manufacturers develop various machine tools depending on market needs and processing functions, and the processed component products generally possess multiple smaller-the-better, larger-the-better, and nominal-the-best quality characteristics at the same time. For this reason, this study employed the widely used process capability indices, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] to develop a model that can evaluate the process quality of component products and analyze the processing quality of various machine tools. We first converted the process capability indices into functions of the accuracy and precision indices and constructed a multi-characteristic quality analysis chart that can identify the reason for poor process quality in a quality characteristic. Furthermore, considering the fact that the process capability indices can only be estimated, which may lead to misjudgment in the evaluation of process quality, we derived the [Formula: see text] upper confidence limits of indices and the coordinates formed by the corresponding accuracy and precision indices. Manufacturers can then evaluate the process quality levels of the quality characteristics based on where the coordinates falls in the multi-characteristic quality analysis chart. This can more reliably assist manufacturers in monitoring the processing quality of their machine tools and providing feedback to the machine tool manufacturers for machine improvement.
Constructions of surrogates, egg donors, and mothers: Swedish gay fathers’ narratives
Authors: Malmquist Anna , Höjerström Sonja
Published: May 2020

The study explored in detail how Swedish gay fathers (through surrogacy) talked about the surrogate mother and the egg donor. Thirteen semi-structured interviews with 22 gay fathers were conducted and analysed using critical discursive analysis. The surrogates were primarily constructed as a close family member, but occasionally in terms of their instrumental function. They were often described as active and independent, but occasionally as vulnerable or exploited. The egg donors were in some interviews constructed as close family members, while others talked about them as distant acquaintances. Further, donors were constructed either as a significant individual (for the fathers), or as an instrumental provider of the oocyte. While some participants constructed the surrogate and/or donor as their child’s mother(s), others were more reluctant or ambivalent about the mother construct. In conclusion, the participants engaged in rhetorical work that shed a positive light on surrogacy, and their own decisions were depicted as solid, ethical and genuine. The participants’ positive framing can be understood as the production of a counter discourse, in relation to an ongoing debate in Sweden, in which surrogacy is constructed as exploitation, dehumanization and prostitution.
Global oncology pharmacy response to COVID-19 pandemic: Medication access and safety
Authors: Alexander Marliese , Jupp Jennifer , Chazan Grace , O’Connor Shaun , Chan Alexandre
Published: May 2020

Response, action, and adaptation of the way health services are delivered will impact our ability to provide optimized and continuity of care while acting within resource constraints imposed by COVID-19. Care for patients with cancer is particularly important given increased infection rates and worse outcomes from COVID-19 in this patient population, as well as potential adverse outcomes if treatment pathways need to be compromised. In this commentary, we provide a global oncology pharmacy perspective (including both developed and developing nations) on how COVID-19 has impacted access to and delivery of cancer therapies. This perspective was prepared by the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, with input from national and regional oncology pharmacy practice groups (42 practice leaders from 28 countries and regions) who contributed to a snapshot survey between 10 and 22 April 2020. Specifically, we highlight challenges related to safe handling of hazardous drugs and maintaining high-quality medication safety standards that have impacted various stakeholders.
Nanocomposite cellulose fabrics with in situ generated silver nanoparticles by bioreduction method
Authors: Siengchin Suchart , Boonyasopon Pawinee , Sadanand Vajja , Rajulu Anumakonda Varada
Published: May 2020

In the present work, nanocomposite cellulose fabrics with in situ generated silver nanoparticles were prepared by bioreduction method employing aqueous dispersion of low-cost natural turmeric powder as a reducing agent and different concentrated aqueous AgNO3 as source solutions. The prepared nanocomposite cellulose fabrics were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and antibacterial tests. The nanocomposite cellulose fabrics had roughly spherical silver nanoparticles in the size range of 41–130 nm with an overall average of 78 nm. The X-ray analysis indicated the generation of both silver nanoparticles and Ag2O nanoparticles in the nanocomposite cellulose fabrics. The nanocomposite cellulose fabrics retained the generated AgNPs even after repeated detergent washings. The prepared nanocomposite cellulose fabrics exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against both the Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and hence can be considered as antibacterial hospital-bed materials, apparels, etc.
A Comparison of Psychosocial Factors, Substance Use Behaviors, and Sexual Behaviors by Self-Reported HIV Status Among Middle-Aged Hispanic Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Valdes Beatriz , Salani Deborah , De Santis Joseph P.
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a significant health issue among Hispanic men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite existing research, no studies have compared psychosocial factors by self-reported HIV antibody status.

Method:

Participants ( n = 150) completed measures of social support, loneliness, depressive symptoms, substance use, and sexual behaviors.

Results:

Participants with a self-reported HIV-antibody positive status reported lower levels of social support and higher levels of illicit substance use. Hispanic MSM with an unknown HIV antibody status reported more sexual partners.

Conclusion:

More research is needed to address psychosocial factors (social support, loneliness, depressive symptoms), substance use, and sexual behaviors among Hispanic MSM.
Reassessing the minimum two-year follow-up standard after total shoulder arthroplasty—Is one year sufficient?
Authors: Mahendraraj Kuhan A , Carducci Michael P , Galvin Joseph W , Golenbock Samuel W , Grubhofer Florian , Jawa Andrew
Published: May 2020

Background

US Food and Drug Administration Investigation Device Exemption studies and academic journals emphasize the importance of two-year follow-up data in reporting outcomes of total shoulder arthroplasty, but there is limited data evaluating appropriate follow-up length. We aim to evaluate change in postoperative outcomes and complications between one and two years following anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasties.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 250 patients who underwent anatomic and reverse total shoulder arthroplasties between 2013 and 2016 from a single surgeon arthroplasty registry. Patients without both one- and two-year follow-up data were excluded. We compared American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Visual Analog Scale for pain, and goniometer-measured range of motion.

Results

Patient-reported outcome measurements ( p > 0.05) did not change between one and two years postoperatively following both reverse ( n = 146) and anatomic ( n = 104) total shoulder arthroplasties. Range of motion increased slightly ( p < 0.05), but this change was not clinically relevant. There were no additional complications.

Discussion

Minimum two-year clinical follow-up may not be necessary for future shoulder arthroplasty Investigation Device Exemption and other peer-reviewed investigations. Patient-reported outcomes (ASES and pain score) and range of motion plateau at one year postoperatively without additional complications. One-year follow-up is an acceptable minimum follow-up length.

Level of evidence

Level III—retrospective analysis.
Effect of deltoid volume on range of motion and patient-reported outcomes following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in rotator cuff-intact and rotator cuff-deficient conditions
Authors: McClatchy Samuel G , Heise Griffin M , Mihalko William M , Azar Frederick M , Smith Richard A , Witte Dexter H , Stanfill John G , Throckmorton Thomas W , Brolin Tyler J
Published: May 2020

Background

Deltoid muscle function is paramount to the success of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of deltoid volume on shoulder range of motion and patient-reported outcomes following reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in rotator cuff-intact and rotator cuff-deficient conditions.

Methods

Retrospective review of records identified 107 patients who met inclusion criteria. The rotator cuff integrity was evaluated by two musculoskeletal-trained radiologists. Volumetric deltoid measurements were calculated from preoperative computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scans. Satisfactory outcomes were defined as forward elevation of at least 135°, external rotation of at least 35°, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation scores of at least 70.

Results

Mean total deltoid muscle volume was significantly higher in patients with satisfactory forward elevation (57.8 ± 18.1 cm³) versus unsatisfactory forward elevation (48.6 ± 19.5 cm³) (p = 0.013). When separated by rotator cuff integrity, total deltoid volume was significantly higher (p = 0.030) in patients who achieved satisfactory forward elevation in the rotator cuff-deficient group but not the rotator cuff-intact group (p = 0.533).

Discussion

Preoperative deltoid volume directly correlated with achieving satisfactory forward elevation after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty in rotator cuff-deficient conditions and may be one factor in determining the ability to achieve satisfactory outcomes in the rotator cuff-deficient patient.
Rhinologic Procedures in the Era of COVID-19: Health-care Provider Protection Protocol
Authors: Taha Mohamed A. , Hall Christian A. , Rathbone Richard F. , Corsten Luke A. , Bowie Charles R. , Waguespack Paul J. , Stanger Richard , Stevenson Megan M. , Zito Brittany A. , Barham Henry P.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 has been identified as the pathogen causing the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) that started in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. SARS-CoV-2 has human-to-human transmission ability and universally contagious to all populations. The main transmission patterns are respiratory droplets transmission and contact transmission. The purpose of this study is to propose a protocol that may be used as a guide to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 infections among otolaryngology care teams.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted to show the efficacy of our protocol to prevent transmission to health-care providers from March 11, 2020 through April 14, 2020. The protocol consisted of a series of protective measures that we applied to all health-care providers, then testing of our providers for COVID-19 using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction along with immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) testing at the end of the study period to ensure effectiveness.

Results

Our protocol resulted in zero transmissions to our health-care providers during the duration of the initial study. We were involved in greater than 150 sinonasal, skull base, open airway, and endoscopy procedures during this study. At the conclusion of the initial 5 weeks, we had no health-care providers test positive for SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusion

According to our proposed protocol, we were able to provide care for all patients in clinic, hospital, emergent, intensive, and surgical settings with no transmission of SARS-CoV-2 by symptomatology and post evaluation testing.
Determinants of Early Marriage and Construction of Gender Roles in South Sudan
Authors: Madut Kon K.
Published: May 2020

This study examines socioeconomic factors that influence child marriage and gender relations in the post-independence South Sudan. Grounded Theory (GT) methodology is utilized to discuss how sociocultural construction of gender relationships and socialization can influence gender relations and equitable female and male contribution to the society. The sample consisted of 55 females and 36 males chosen at random ( n = 91), who took part either in a focus group discussion or one-on-one interview. The study covered the period from August 2015 to October 2017. The participants were drawn from four counties—Mapel, Kabu, Besselia, and Jury River—of the Wau State, in Bahr el Ghazal. Findings yielded by the GT analysis revealed that child marriage is influenced by social and economic factors and is perceived as an acceptable social norm. This practice is further complicated by the effects of everlasting conflict, poverty, and high illiteracy rate in the society.
The utility of hip arthroscopy for patients with painful borderline hip dysplasia
Authors: Hwang Deuk-Soo , Kang Chan , Lee Jeong-Kil , Park Jae-Young , Zheng Long , Hwang Jung-Mo
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

We measured the width of the acetabular labra in, and the clinical outcomes of, patients with borderline hip dysplasia (HD) who underwent arthroscopy.

Methods:

A total of 1436 patients who underwent hip arthroscopy to treat symptomatic, acetabular labral tears were enrolled. From this cohort, we extracted a borderline HD group (162 cases). Lateral labral widths were evaluated using preoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans. Clinical data including the modified Harris hip score (mHHS), non-arthritic hip score (NAHS), hip outcome score–activity of daily living (HOS-ADL) score, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and Tönnis grade were collected. In addition, patient satisfaction with arthroscopy outcomes was rated. All complications and reoperations were noted.

Results:

The mean follow-up time was 87.4 months. The lateral labral width was 7.64 mm in those with normal hips and 7.73 mm in borderline HD patients, respectively ( p = 0.870). The Tönnis grade progressed mildly from 0.46 to 0.76 ( p = 0.227). At the last follow-up, clinical outcome scores (mHHS, NAHS, and HOS-ADL scores) and the VAS score were improved ( p < 0.001). The mean patient satisfaction was scored at 8.2. The reoperation rate was higher in those who underwent labral debridement (25.6%) than labral repair (4.1%).

Conclusions:

The lateral labral width did not differ significantly between the borderline HD group and the nondysplastic control group. Arthroscopy relieved the symptoms of painful borderline HD and did not accelerate osteoarthritis. Therefore, if such patients do not respond to conservative treatment, hip arthroscopy can be considered for further treatment.
Redesigning Matrixed Organisations: HR Responsibilities
Authors: Chakravarti Ranjan , Bhaduri Nilanjana
Published: May 2020

Organisations have used matrix structures to stay agile and flexible to do more with less. However, these structures with a dual chain of command have been fraught with power struggles, defeating the purpose of a matrix. Unfortunately, in most cases, the business continues to struggle with these issues. In India, managing the generational difference in family-owned businesses is akin to the matrix organisation and hence has similar complexities.

Human resources (HR) as the custodian of organisation culture has the power to restructure. To do this, HR first needs to reinvent itself and make itself a trusted partner to the business. This article highlights some of these practices that HR needs to unlearn and learn that would help HR address the organisation structure to peak performance.
PretiMeth: precise prediction models for DNA methylation based on single methylation mark
Authors: Tang Jianxiong , Zou Jianxiao , Zhang Xiaoran , Fan Mei , Tian Qi , Fu Shuyao , Gao Shihong , Fan Shicai
Published: May 2020

Background

The computational prediction of methylation levels at single CpG resolution is promising to explore the methylation levels of CpGs uncovered by existing array techniques, especially for the 450 K beadchip array data with huge reserves. General prediction models concentrate on improving the overall prediction accuracy for the bulk of CpG loci while neglecting whether each locus is precisely predicted. This leads to the limited application of the prediction results, especially when performing downstream analysis with high precision requirements.

Results

Here we reported PretiMeth, a method for constructing precise prediction models for each single CpG locus. PretiMeth used a logistic regression algorithm to build a prediction model for each interested locus. Only one DNA methylation feature that shared the most similar methylation pattern with the CpG locus to be predicted was applied in the model. We found that PretiMeth outperformed other algorithms in the prediction accuracy, and kept robust across platforms and cell types. Furthermore, PretiMeth was applied to The Cancer Genome Atlas data (TCGA), the intensive analysis based on precise prediction results showed that several CpG loci and genes (differentially methylated between the tumor and normal samples) were worthy for further biological validation.

Conclusion

The precise prediction of single CpG locus is important for both methylation array data expansion and downstream analysis of prediction results. PretiMeth achieved precise modeling for each CpG locus by using only one significant feature, which also suggested that our precise prediction models could be probably used for reference in the probe set design when the DNA methylation beadchip update. PretiMeth is provided as an open source tool via https://github.com/JxTang-bioinformatics/PretiMeth.
Changes of hospitalization trend in the pediatric cardiology division of a single center by increasing adult with congenital heart disease
Authors: Lee Sang-Yun , Kim Gi-Beom , Kwon Hye-Won , Song Mi-kyoung , Bae Eun Jung , Cho Sungkyu , Kwak Jae Gun , Lim Hong-Gook , Kim Woong-Han , Lee Jeong-Ryul
Published: May 2020

Background

As a result of advances in pediatric care and diagnostic testing, there is a growing population of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). The purpose of this study was to better define the epidemiology and changes in the trend of hospitalizations for ACHD in Korean society.

Methods

We reviewed outpatient and inpatient data from 2005 to 2017 to identify patient ≥18 years of age admitted for acute care with a congenital heart disease (CHD) diagnosis in the pediatric cardiology division. We tried to analyze changes of hospitalization trend for ACHD.

Results

The ratio of outpatients with ACHD increased 286.5%, from 11.1% (1748/15,682) in 2005 to 31.8% (7795/24,532) in 2017. The number of ACHD hospitalizations increased 360.7%, from 8.9% (37/414) in 2005 to 32.1% (226/705) in 2017. The average patient age increased from 24.3 years in 2005 to 27.4 in 2017. The main diagnosis for admission of ACHD is heart failure, arrhythmia and Fontan-related complications. The annual ICU admission percentage was around 5% and mean length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay was 8.4 ± 14.6 days. Mean personal hospital charges by admission of ACHD increased to around two times from 2005 to 2017. (from $2578.1 to $3697.0). Total annual hospital charges by ACHD markedly increased ten times (from $95,389.7 to $831,834.2).

Conclusions

The number of hospital cares for ACHD dramatically increased more than five times from 2005 to 2017. We need preparations for efficient healthcare for adults with CHD such as a multi-dimensional approach, effective communication, and professional training.
Association between inflammation and skeletal muscle proteolysis, skeletal mass and strength in elderly heart failure patients and their prognostic implications
Authors: Koshikawa Masayuki , Harada Masahide , Noyama Shunsuke , Kiyono Ken , Motoike Yuji , Nomura Yoshihiro , Nishimura Asuka , Izawa Hideo , Watanabe Eiichi , Ozaki Yukio
Published: May 2020

Background

Inflammation and skeletal muscle wasting often coexist in elderly populations, but few studies have examined their relationship in elderly heart failure (HF) patients. This study examined the relationship between inflammation and increased skeletal muscle proteolysis, reduced skeletal mass and strength, and their prognostic implications in elderly HF patients (> 65 years) using a random forest approach.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled consecutive elderly HF patients (n = 78) and age- and sex-matched control subjects (n = 83). We measured the interleukin (IL)-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels, lower limb muscle mass and strength, and 6-min walk distance. The amount of muscle proteolysis was determined by urinary 3-methylhystidine, normalized by creatinine (3-MH/Cr). The composite endpoint was defined as all-cause death or hospitalizations due to worsening HF.

Results

Compared to controls, elderly HF patients had a significantly higher IL-6, CRP, BNP, and 3-MH/Cr, and exhibited a reduced lower limb muscle mass and strength. A correlation analysis demonstrated significant positive correlations between the inflammatory cytokine levels and 3-MH/Cr and BNP, and negative correlations with the lower limb muscle mass and strength, and 6-min walk distance. During a median follow-up of 2.4-years, 24 patients reached the endpoint. A random forest model revealed that inflammatory cytokines, skeletal muscle wasting, and the BNP had greater effects on the risk prediction. The algorithm achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.887 (95% CI, 0.772–1.000).

Conclusion

This study provided evidence of the association between inflammation and increased skeletal muscle proteolysis, reduced skeletal mass and strength, and their prognostic roles in elderly HF patients.
Associations of mitochondrial DNA 3777–4679 region mutations with maternally inherited essential hypertensive subjects in China
Authors: Zhu Ye , You Jia , Xu Chao , Gu Xiang
Published: May 2020

Background

Nuclear genome or family mitochondrial screening system has become the hot focus of studies into essential hypertension. The role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in sporadic Chinese patients with hypertension has not been fully understood. The study was to evaluate the associations of mtDNA mutations with maternally inherited essential hypertensive subjects in China.

Methods

From June 2009 to June 2016, a total of 800 gender-matched Chinese patients with maternally inherited essential hypertension (MIEH) and control group were 1:1 enrolled in this case-control study. Genomic DNA was extracted from each person’s peripheral blood cells. The main mtDNA locations for MIEH were screened with oligodeoxynucleotides 3777-4679 bp, analyzed and compared with the updated consensus Cambridge Sequence. Pathogenic mtDNA mutations were identified from the mitochondrial map.

Results

MIEH subjects presented significantly higher values than those of control group in abdominal circumference (AC), waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and renal function (P < 0.05). MIEH subjects carried more amino acid changes and coding sequence variants (P < 0.01) than control group. The allele frequencies of the eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were significantly different between the two groups, includingm.3970 C > T, m.4048G > A, m.4071C > T, m.4086C > T, m. 4164A > G and m.4248 T > Cin ND1 gene, andm.4386 T > Candm.4394C > Tin tRNAGlngene(P < 0.001). Fifty-five homoplasmic or heteroplasmic mutations were detected in 5 genes: ND1, tRNAIle, tRNAMet, tRNAGlnand ND2 gene. The ND1 gene was the main mutation site, where the most mtDNA mutation wasm.3970 C > T.

Conclusions

The mtDNA mutations were involved in the process of MIEH. We identified mitochondrial genetic characteristics in MIEH patients in China. The present research serves as a solid foundation for further detailed research on the association between MIEH and mitochondrial dysfunction, and their causal relationship in Chinese and other populations with a similar lifestyle.
Clinical outcomes after mix-and-match implantation of diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses with + 2.75 and + 4.00 diopter add powers
Authors: Lee Jae Hyuck , Lee Hun , Lee Jin Ah. , Yoo Aeri , Kim Jae Yong , Tchah Hungwon
Published: May 2020

Background

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of bilateral mix-and-match implantation of diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) with different add powers.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 18 patients who underwent bilateral mix-and-match implantation of diffractive multifocal IOLs with different add powers. Multifocal IOLs with add powers of + 2.75 diopters (D) and + 4.00 D were implanted into the patients’ dominant and nondominant eyes, respectively. At 1 and 3-month postoperatively, monocular and binocular visual acuity was measured using logMAR charts and manifest refraction was performed. Specifically, logMAR charts were used to measure uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity (UIVA), uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA), and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA). Defocus curves, contrast sensitivity, and patient satisfaction were assessed at 3-month postoperatively.

Results

Binocular logMAR measurements (mean ± standard deviation) at 3-month postoperatively were 0.01 ± 0.04 (UDVA), 0.16 ± 0.05 (UIVA), and 0.11 ± 0.07 (UNVA). Postoperative spherical equivalent was − 0.43 ± 0.35 D and − 0.39 ± 0.21 D in the dominant and nondominant eyes, respectively. Defocus curves showed significant differences between − 1.50 and − 4.00 D among binocular, dominant, and nondominant eye measurements, except between − 2.50 and − 3.00 D. Eyes implanted with + 2.75 and + 4.00 D IOLs showed good contrast sensitivity under photopic and mesopic conditions. Over 80% of patients reported high satisfaction with their near vision.

Conclusions

Bilateral mix-and-match implantation of diffractive multifocal IOLs with add powers of + 2.75 D and + 4.00 D showed good near, intermediate, and far vision.