bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurship and Bédard’s Theoretical Rhombus: An Extended Proposal for Management Field
Authors: Márquez Félix O. Socorro , Ortiz Giovanni E. Reyes
Published: February 2021

The main aim of this study is to explain and propose a complementary rhombus, based on Renée Bédard’s ( 2003 , Los Fundamentos del Pensamiento y las Prácticas Administrativas: El rombo y las cuatro dimensiones filosóficas. AD-MINISTER, pp. 68–88) proposal, that supports entrepreneurial activity and could serve to identify and develop the competencies that entrepreneurs must display in today’s competitive market. Bédard proposed a rhombus with four philosophical dimensions (praxeology, axiology, ontology and epistemology); she considered them as the foundations of administrative thinking and practices. Her proposal was aimed, among other things, at facilitating the understanding of the place of the human being in the field of studies and administrative practices. However, she did not take into account undertaking activities. Due to the changes that the markets have experienced, entrepreneurs face the need to have a broader and more complex vision of the reality that surrounds them to influence it successfully, which is why the theoretical approach of the Bédard’s rhombus has been taken to develop. This study has used a qualitative methodology, supported by documentary analysis and deductive reasoning, to propose a more comprehensive rhombus. Additionally, this study explores the integration of both approaches—Bédard’s rhombus and the complementary rhombus proposed by the researchers—as a way to base administrative thinking and practices from the perspective of entrepreneurship.
Determinants of Profitability and Financial Sustainability of Saving and Credit Cooperatives in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Yitayaw Mekonnen Kumlachew
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the determinants affecting financial sustainability and profitability of saving and credit cooperatives (SACCOs) in Eastern Ethiopia using unbalanced panel data of 43 SACCOs from 2015 to 2019. To realise the stated objective, a quantitative approach and an explanatory design were employed using secondary data sources mainly from audited financial statements of the SACCOs during the study period. The analysis revealed that SACCOs in Eastern Ethiopia are not profitable but financially sustainable. The robust random effect model result shows that deposit mobilisation, loan-to-deposit ratio and managerial efficiency have a statistically significant and positive effect on the profitability of SACCOs, while operational efficiency has a statistically significant and negative effect. Likewise, the leverage ratio and the number of active borrowers (a proxy of breadth outreach) have a statistically significant and positive effect on the financial sustainability of SACCOs in Eastern Ethiopia. However, operational efficiency and size have a statistically significant but negative effect on SACCOs’ financial sustainability. Finally, the study suggests that SACCOs in Eastern Ethiopia should perform their conventional activities such as saving mobilisation and credit provision properly to be financially healthy.
A Knight in Sheep’s Clothing: Media Framing of the Alt-Right Can Alter the Image of Racist Groups
Authors: Speakman Burton
Published: February 2021

The Alt-Right increased its national profile during the 2016 presidential election based on its support of Donald Trump. This research becomes more salient with the media continuing to face similar challenges in framing far-right groups. The Alt-Right, like other Far Right groups worldwide, has moderated their framing to hide racist ideology. Therefore, the challenge of this article is to learn if the media allow newer far-right conservative groups to self-frame even against the advice from the Associated Press. This study uses qualitative framing analysis through grounded theory to review the coverage of the Alt-Right as a manner of examining if the group was successful in advancing its desired frames into mainstream media coverage. The results of this study suggest overall the Alt-Right was successful in reducing a direct discussion about the racist beliefs of the group within press coverage. This study continues in the tradition of framing studies of the past yet moves the genre forward as journalists negotiate increasing polarised and fragmented political communication.
“This Isn’t Who We Are”: A Critical Discourse Analysis of School and District Leaders’ Responses to Racial Violence
Authors: Bridgeforth James C.
Published: February 2021

Media reports have detailed the growing prevalence of incidents of racism and racial violence in K-12 schools and districts throughout the United States. The public nature of these incidents often requires a formal response from school and district leadership in the form of a press release, letter, or public statement. This study is an analysis of 140 press releases, emails, letters, and social media posts that educational leaders made in response to incidents of anti-Black racial violence occurring between 2014 and 2019. Using critical discourse analysis, the author finds that institutional leaders regularly responded to these incidents by prioritizing the reputation of the school or district, rather than the needs of the victims of racial violence. Leaders engaged in the organizational practice of institutional boundary making by positioning the incidents as unrepresentative of the larger community, instead of acknowledging the structural roots of anti-Blackness within their communities. Due to the endemic nature of anti-Black racism, the author argues that educational leaders must acknowledge the predictable nature of these incidents and proactively prepare to respond swiftly and decisively. Leaders’ responses should be meaningful, action-oriented, and equity-minded, ultimately leading to organizational transformation, rather than simply protecting the image of the schools and districts that they lead.
Australian Orthodontists Utilization and Attitude Toward a Government Funded Cleft Scheme
Authors: Wishney Morgan , Sahu-Khan Aziz , Petocz Peter , Darendeliler M. Ali , Papadopoulou Alexandra K.
Published: February 2021

Objectives:

To (1) survey Australian orthodontists about their involvement with a government-funded scheme for patients with clefts, the Medicare Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Scheme (MCLCPS) and (2) investigate their attitude toward treating patients with clefts and their training in this respect.

Design:

A 13-question online survey was distributed to members of the Australian Society of Orthodontists. The survey gathered information regarding respondent demographics, the number of MCLCPS-eligible patients seen in the past 12 months and usual billing practices.

Results:

A total of 96 complete responses were obtained. About 70% of respondents had treated MCLCPS-eligible patients in the past 12 months and 55% saw between 2 and 5 patients during this time. The likelihood of treating patients with clefts increased by a factor of 4.8 (95% CI: 1.2-18.9) if practicing outside of a capital city and 1.5 times for each decade increase in orthodontist’s age (95% CI: 1.0-2.2). The MCLCPS was utilized by 81% of orthodontists with 26% of these respondents accepting rebate only. Most orthodontists felt their university training could have better prepared them to treat patients with clefts. A minority of orthodontists felt that a rebate increase would make them more likely to treat these patients.

Conclusions:

Australian orthodontists who treat patients with clefts tend to be older and work outside of capital cities. The decision to treat these patients tends to not be financially motived. Specialty orthodontic training programs could improve the preparedness of their graduates to treat patients with clefts.
Clinical characteristics and treatment of secondary glaucoma, glaucoma suspects and ocular hypertension after congenital cataract surgery
Authors: Eibenberger Katharina , Kiss Barbara , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula , Stifter Eva
Published: February 2021

Objective:

To evaluate changes in intraocular pressure after congenital cataract surgery in a real-world setting.

Methods:

This retrospective case series included all children aged 0–2 years undergoing lens extraction due to congenital cataract. Development of an elevated intraocular pressure was divided into three groups: secG, suspG and OHT. Further, risk factors for IOP changes, the therapeutic approach and functional outcome were assessed during follow-up.

Results:

One hundred and sixty-one eyes of 110 patients aged 0–2 years were included, whereof 29 eyes of 17 children developed secondary glaucoma (secG; 11 eyes/8 patients), glaucoma suspect (suspG; three eyes/three patients) or ocular hypertension (OHT; 15 eyes/10 patients). No difference in surgrical procedure ( p = 0.62) was found, but age at cataract surgery differed significantly ( p = 0.048), with the secG group (1.74 ± 1.01 months) being the youngest (suspG: 3.93 ± 1.80 months; OHT group: 5.91 ± 5.36 months). Secondary surgical intervention was significantly higher in the secG (4.64 ± 3.41) followed by the suspG (2.00 ± 2.65) and OHT groups (0.40 ± 0.74; p < 0.001). Postoperative complications including nystagmus ( p = 0.81), strabismus ( p = 0.98) and amblyopia ( p = 0.73) showed no difference, in contrast to visual axis obscuration which was more common in the secG group ( p = 0.036).

Conclusion:

Initial lensectomy and anterior vitrectomy procedure together with or without IOL implantation seems to have no influence for the development of IOP changes after pediatric cataract surgery. However, children who developed secondary glaucoma had cataract surgery significantly earlier, within the first 2–3 months of life. Glaucoma surgery was required to achieve final IOP control in most eyes. The development of secondary glaucoma was also associated with a significant increase in surgical re-treatments.
Comparison of central corneal thickness and intraocular pressure measured with two different tono/pachymeter devices in non-glaucomatouse children
Authors: Teberik Kuddusi , Eski Mehmet Tahir , Ankarali Handan
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

The goal of this research is to compare the intraocular pressure (IOP) and the mean central corneal thickness (CCT) values obtained from the measurements with Nidek NT-530P and Canon TX-20P devices with the values obtained by ultrasound pachymetry (UP) and Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) in children.

Methods:

This prospective study was conducted with 119 healthy children. The measurements were repeated three times for each eye. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess the correlation between the measurements obtained from different devices. The Bland–Altman plot was used to analyze the agreement between two different devices graphically. The measurements were taken in the same order in all subjects: TX-20P, NT-530P, UP, and GAT.

Results:

The mean age of the children was 10.1 ± 3.2 (6–17) years. The mean CCT values for the eyes were 568.90 and 569.68 (TX-20P), 571.44 and 566.37 (NT-530P), 564.77 and 564.67 μm UP, (right and left, respectively). The highest correspondence observed for CCT was between UP and NT-530P devices (ICC, 0.982, the left eye). The mean IOP measurements for Canon TX-20P, NT-530P, and GAT were 16.5 ± 3.2, 16.3 ± 3.2, and 16.8 ± 3.6 mmHg for the right eyes, respectively, while those for the left eyes were 16.6 ± 3.1, 16.2 ± 3.3, and 16.8 ± 3.7 mmHg. The highest correspondence was noted between measurements obtained using GAT and Nidek NT-530P devices (ICC, 0.945, in the left eye).

Conclusion:

Tono/pachymetry devices in the healthy children are provides significant agreements with the gold standard methods for IOP and CCT measurements. Clinical Trial Registration number: 2016-94
Public Sector Capacity to Prevent and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in Twelve Low- and Middle-Income Countries Based on WHO-PEN Standards: A Systematic Review
Authors: Albelbeisi Ahmed Hassan , Albelbeisi Ali , El Bilbeisi Abdel Hamid , Taleb Mahmoud , Takian Amirhossein , Akbari-Sari Ali
Published: February 2021

This review was conducted to assess the capacity of the public sector to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC) based on WHO-PEN standards. A PRISMA systematic search appraisal of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was conducted during May-2020 for original articles conducted in LMIC and reported the capacity of the public sector to prevent and control NCDs. The country readiness score was calculated as the mean score of items for each domain. The indices were compared to an agreed cutoff at 80% the WHO optimal target of availability of affordable essential medicines and basic technologies required to treat NCDs. The literature search yielded 5 original studies, conducted in twelve countries, and surveyed 304 public health facilities. All countries failed to reach the WHO optimal target of availability of affordable essential medicines and basic technologies. The readiness index score according to WHO-PEN standards among countries in terms of essential medicines, diagnostic investigations, and basic equipment were range from 13.5% to 51%, 0.0% to 59.4%, and 29.2% to 51.2% respectively. This review revealed critical gaps in the twelve LMIC public sector capacity to prevent and control of NCDs in terms of essential medicines, basic equipment, and diagnostic investigations.
Durability of Complete Response to Intralesional Interleukin-2 for In-Transit Melanoma
Authors: Khoury Sami , Knapp Gregory C. , Fyfe Allison , Monzon Jose , Temple-Oberle Claire , McKinnon Gregory J.
Published: February 2021

Background

Intralesional injection of interleukin-2 (IL-2) for in-transit melanoma (ITM) is associated with a high rate of complete response. However, there is a paucity of data on treatment durability and long-term outcomes.

Objectives

To provide long-term data on patients with a complete response to IL-2 therapy for ITM.

Methods

Consecutive patients with ITM, treated with intralesional IL-2 therapy, at the Tom Baker Cancer Center were identified from April 2009 to August 2019. All patients received at least 4 cycles (every 2 weeks) of IL-2 (5 MIU/mL). Complete response was defined as sustained (ie, 3 months) clinical complete remission of all known in-transit disease.

Results

Sixty-five patients were treated with curative intent for in-transit disease with intralesional IL-2. Complete clinical response was identified in 44.6% (29/65). In this subset of patients, the median number of lesions per patient was 9 (range 1-40). The median total dose of IL-2 was 0.8 mL (IQR 0.4-1.5) per lesion. One patient received isolated limb infusion and 13.8% (4/29) received systemic immunotherapy as part of their initial management. At a median follow-up of 27 months (IQR 16-59), 34.5% (10/29) developed recurrent disease. Of these patients, 50.0% (5/10) presented with synchronous in-transit and distant metastases. The median time to recurrence was 10.5 months (IQR 5.8-16.3).

Conclusion

With long-term follow-up, 65.5% of complete responders have a durable response to intralesional IL-2 therapy. In this cohort of patients, local in-transit recurrence is most likely to occur within 12 months and is often associated with concomitant distant disease.
On photographing the legacies of violence: A conversation with Jo Ractliffe
Authors: Ractliffe Jo , Straus Scott , Groult Charlotte
Published: February 2021

In her work, the South African photographer Jo Ractliffe has been exploring the idea of landscape as “pathology,” how past violence manifests in the landscape of the present. In 2007, she made the first of a number of visits to Angola and over the following 4 years photographed the lingering end of Angola’s civil war, one that South Africa was deeply involved in and was known to White South Africans as the South Africa’s “Border War.” For Violence: An international journal, she has come back on her wide body of work and shared her thoughts on the difficulties to grasp violence visually, the ethics of representation and the ways in which photography exercises one’s critical awareness.
Discordant Expectations of Global Intimacy: Desire and Inequality in Commercial Surrogacy
Authors: Cheney Kristen E
Published: February 2021

Gestational surrogacy – carrying someone else’s baby (or babies) to term and giving birth to them – is perhaps one of the most intimate acts a human being can perform for others. However, the proliferation of commercial surrogacy has drawn concern and criticism, with many scholars arguing that it both creates and exacerbates global social and economic inequalities. Commercial surrogacy thus raises both the possibility of global intimate connection and the specter of reproductive exploitation. I therefore explore the various, shifting, and often discordant desires for intimate connection between the intending parent(s), the surrogate mother, and the resulting child(ren) in commercial surrogacy. I then examine how those intimacies intersect with commercial surrogacy’s socioeconomic inequalities. Weighing commercial surrogacy’s driving desires and intimate practices against its commercialization, I end with a reconsideration of the procreative desires and intimate practices that spur current international commercial surrogacy (ICS), urging an emphasis on reproductive justice.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation on Axial Rub Impact Dynamic Characteristics of Flexible Rotor Supported by Hybrid Gas Bearings
Authors: Hao Long , Han Dongjiang , Zhao Wei , Zhao Qingjun , Yang Jinfu
Published: February 2021

Gas bearings are widely used in micro- and small turbomachinery. Because of the pursuit of high efficiency, turbomachinery adopts small clearance of rotor and stator. The gas bearing rotor system easily suffers from rub impact due to the inherently low damping and load capacity of gas film. Axial rub impact may lead to catastrophic failure of gas bearing rotor system. Previous work put emphasis on radial rub, and only a few papers researched on the axial rub impact by simulation method. In this paper, dynamic responses of full annular axial rub are investigated numerically and experimentally. A single span flexible rotor test rig is established to support this research. Dynamic characteristics of full annular axial rub of this gas bearing rotor system are obtained with finite element language-APDL. Dynamic characteristics within full speed range are experimentally researched based on the test rig. The dynamic behaviors are analyzed by means of waterfall diagrams, frequency spectrums, orbit trails, and vibration amplitude waveforms. During speed up, half speed whirl and gas film oscillation occur in radial direction. During speed down, the full annular axial rub between rotor thrust disk and gas bearing occurs. When lightly axial rub impact happens, the vibration patterns in the radial direction change barely, and 0 Hz component appears in the axial direction. When serious full annular axial rub impact happens, 0 Hz component occurs in both radial and axial directions and rotor orbit shows transverse motion in radial direction. These forms of dynamic characteristics can be effectively used to diagnose the full annular axial rub impact.
In defence of not-knowing: uncertainty and contemporary narratives of sexual violence
Authors: Wallace Samantha
Published: February 2021

This article models a critical method of engaging with not-knowing as it relates to discourses around sexual agency and sexual violation through an analysis of Carmen Maria Machado’s short story ‘The Husband Stitch’. I argue that sexual and gender-based violation not only enforces harmful forms of uncertainty among the women of the story. It also forecloses the potentially productive capacities of modes of not-knowing. In doing so, I respond to assertions from feminist scholars as varied Linda Martín Alcoff, Mary Gaitskill, Laura Kipnis and Joseph Fischel that we need to better account for the full ‘complexity’ of narratives of sexual encounter – including violent encounters. Broadly, in a #MeToo era in which stories of sexual and gender-based violence have received unprecedented mainstream public exposure, I contend that we can both treat the testimonies of survivors as credible and authoritative, and open up discursive space for the experience and expression of not-knowing.
Evaluation of Endovascular Intervention for Tracheo-Innominate Artery Fistula: A Systematic Review
Authors: O’Malley Thomas J. , Jordan Andrew M. , Prochno Kyle W. , Saxena Abhiraj , Maynes Elizabeth J. , Ferrell Brandon , Guy T. Sloane , Entwistle John W. , Massey H. Todd , Morris Rohinton J. , Abai Babak , Tchantchaleishvili Vakhtang
Published: February 2021

Background:

While the standard of care for suspected tracheo-innominate artery fistula (TIF) necessitates sternotomy, perioperative mortality remains high. Endovascular interventions have been attempted, but reports have been anecdotal. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the outcomes of endovascular management of TIF by pooling the existing evidence.

Methods:

An electronic database search of Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register was performed to identify all studies examining endovascular treatment of TIF. Patients greater than 14 years of age who underwent endovascular intervention for TIF were included. 25 studies consisting of 27 patients met the inclusion criteria.

Results:

48.1% (13/27) of patients were male and median age was 39.0 [IQR 16.0, 47.5] years. Tracheostomy was present in 96.3% (26/27) of cases. Median duration from tracheostomy to TIF presentation was 2.2 months [0.5, 42.5]. On presentation, 84.6% (22/26) had tracheal hemorrhage, and 22.8% (6/27) were hemodynamically unstable. 96.3% (26/27) underwent covered stent graft placement while 1 patient (3.8%) had coil embolization. 18.5% (5/27) of patients required repeat endovascular intervention for recurrent bleeding, while 11.1% (3/27) required rescue sternotomy. Median hospital length of stay was 30 days [16.0, 46.5], and overall mortality was 29.6% (8/27) with a median follow-up time of 5 months [1.2, 11.5].

Conclusion:

While uncommon, endovascular treatment of TIF may be a feasible alternative to sternotomy. The approach may be useful in those who are unable to undergo surgery or are likely to have adhesions from prior chest operations.
The importance of repeat digital subtraction myelography in the diagnosis of cryptogenic CSF-venous fistula causing spontaneous intracranial hypotension
Authors: Nagesh Chinmay P , Devaraj Rashmi , Joshi Girish , Shafi Peerzada , Krishna KN , Satischandra Parthasarthy
Published: February 2021

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a rare disorder that occurs secondary to acquired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks in the spine. Treatment involves either an epidural blood patch or surgical ligation. Essential to the selecting the optimal management strategy is classifying the type of leak and accurate localization of its level. Hitherto, this has been achieved using conventional imaging methods such as static CT or MR myelography which are adequate for the demonstration of only high flow leaks. Digital subtraction myelography (DSM) is a novel technique which provides superior temporal and spatial resolution in the localization of more challenging slow flow leaks. However, DSM may also be initially non-diagnostic. We report a case of SIH in which repeat DSM revealed a type 3 CSF-venous fistula and demonstrate a possible mechanism of transient CSF leak block resulting in the initial false negative findings based on morphological changes in the culprit nerve sheath diverticulum-pseudomeningocoele complex. The patient underwent successful surgical ligation with clinicoradiological resolution of SIH.
The use of hypnotherapy as treatment for functional stroke: A case series from a single center in the UK
Authors: Sanyal Ranjan , Raseta Marko , Natarajan Indira , Roffe Christine
Published: February 2021

Background

Functional neurological disorder is defined by symptoms not explained by the current model of disease and its pathophysiology. It is found in 8.4% of patients presenting as acute stroke. Treatment is difficult and recurrence rates are high. We introduced hypnotherapy as a therapeutic option in addition to standard stroke unit care.

Methods

This is an observational study of successive patients with functional neurological disorder presenting as acute stroke treated with hypnotherapy between 1 April 2014 and 1 February 2018. The diagnosis of functional neurological disorder was confirmed by clinical examination and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging. Hypnosis was delivered by a hypnotherapy trained stroke physician using imagery for induction. A positive response was defined as a National Institutes of Health Stroke score reduction to 0 or by ≥4 points posthypnotherapy. Costs were calculated as therapist time and benefits as reduction in disability/bed days.

Results

Sixty-eight patients (mean age 36.4 years, 52 (76%) females, mean baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke 5.0 (range 1–9)) were included. Two patients (3%) could not be hypnotized. Fifty-eight 58 (85%) responded, 47 (81%) required one treatment session, while 19% needed up to three sessions for symptomatic improvement. No adverse events were observed. Disability (modified Rankin Scale) reduced from a mean of 2.3 to 0.5 resulting in an average cost saving of £1,658 per patient. Most (n = 50, 86%) remained well without recurrence at six-month follow-up.

Conclusions

In this case series, hypnotherapy was associated with rapid and sustained recovery of symptoms. A prospective randomized controlled study is required to confirm the findings and establish generalizability of the results.
Temporal trends in stroke incidence and case-fatality rates in Arcadia, Greece: A sequential, prospective, population-based study
Authors: Karantali Eleni , Vemmos Konstantinos , Tsampalas Evangelos , Xynos Konstantinos , Karachalia Persefoni , Lambrou Dimitrios , Angeloglou Stella , Kazakou Maria , Karagianni Aikaterini , Aravantinou-Fatorou Konstantina , Karakatsani Eleftheria , Bots Michiel L , Karamatzianni Georgia , Bellos Stavros , Ntiloudis Romanos , Lypiridou Maria , Gamvoula Anastasia , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Ajdini Erold , Gatselis Nikolaos , Makaritsis Konstantinos , Korompoki Eleni , Ntaios George
Published: February 2021

Background

Stroke incidence and case-fatality are reported to decline in high-income countries during the last decades. Epidemiological studies are important for health services to organize prevention and treatment strategies.

Aims

The aim of this population-based study was to determine temporal trends of stroke incidence and case-fatality rates of first-ever stroke in Arcadia, a prefecture in southern Greece.

Methods

All first-ever stroke cases in the Arcadia prefecture were ascertained using the same standard criteria and multiple overlapping sources in three study periods: from November 1993 to October 1995; 2004; and 2015–2016. Crude and age-adjusted to European population incidence rates were compared using Poisson regression. Twenty-eight days case fatality rates were estimated and compared using the same method.

Results

In total, 1315 patients with first-ever stroke were identified. The age-standardized incidence to the European population was 252 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI 231–239) in 1993/1995, 252 (95% CI 223–286) in 2004, and 211 (192–232) in 2015/2016. The overall age- and sex-adjusted incidence rates fell by 16% (incidence rates ratio 0.84, 95% CI: 0.72–0.97). Similarly, 28-day case-fatality rate decreased by 28% (case fatality rate ratio = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.58–0.90).

Conclusions

This population-based study reports a significant decline in stroke incidence and mortality rates in southern Greece between 1993 and 2016.
A Combined Maintenance Strategy Considering Spares, Buffer, and Quality
Authors: Gan Shuyuan , Wang Bolun , Song Zhifang
Published: February 2021

This paper studies an innovative maintenance model for an upstream machine in a common production system. Multiple system-wise features are integrated in the model, including maintenance, spare parts, buffer inventory, and product quality. The objective is to minimize the system expected cost rate by determining the optimal inspection interval, preventive maintenance threshold, corrective maintenance threshold, reorder level of spare parts, maximum stock level of spare parts, and maximum inventory level of the buffer. In this maintenance model, both the hazard rate and the product qualification rate can trigger maintenance activities. The well-known proportional hazard model (PHM) is adopted to describe the state of the upstream machine. The effect of machine state on product quality is explicitly characterized. Due to the complexity of the mathematical model, simulation and a genetic algorithm are employed to determine the optimal solution. A case study of bearings is presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed maintenance policy. The results show that this policy is practical and can reduce system cost significantly.
No Evidence That Hormonal Contraceptives Affect Chemosensory Perception
Authors: Schaefer Martin , Iravani Behzad , Arshamian Artin , Lundström Johan N.
Published: February 2021

The use of oral contraceptives (OC) in the form of a hormonal pill has been widespread for decades. Despite its popularity and long-time use, there is still much ambiguity and anecdotal reports about a range of potential side effects. Here, we addressed the potential effect of OC use on chemosensory perception. Previous research has almost exclusively focused on olfaction, but we expanded this to the trigeminal system and the sense of taste. We used Bayesian statistics to compare the olfactory, trigeminal, and taste detection abilities between a group of 34 normal cycling women and a group of 26 women using OC. Our results indicated that odor, trigeminal, and taste thresholds were not affected by the use of OC. Moreover, neither odor perception, nor taste perception was affected; all with Bayes factors consistently favoring the null hypothesis. The only exception to these results was odor identification where Bayes factors indicated inconclusive evidence. We conclude that effects of OC use on chemosensory perception are unlikely, and if present, likely are of no to little behavioral relevance.
Tocilizumab and PMX-DHP have efficacy for severe COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Shinomiya Shohei , Nakase Keisuke , Fujii Ai , Takahara Yutaka , Adachi Hiroki , Okuro Masashi , Iinuma Yoshitsugu , Yokoyama Hitoshi , Ito Toru , Mizuno Shiro
Published: February 2021

In coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia, a cytokine storm resulting from an excessive inflammatory response to the viral infection is thought to play a role in the exacerbation of the pneumonia and its prognosis. Favipiravir and ciclesonide are not effective in the inhibition of the cytokine storm. In this case report, we describe the experience of tocilizumab administration and polymyxin B immobilized fiber direct hemoperfusion in severe coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia patient. A 52-year-old man presented with fever and dyspnea and was diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia based on a polymerase chain reaction test. Mechanical ventilation and favipiravir administration were started for respiratory failure. However, favipiravir could not be continued due to hepatic dysfunction. Consequently, tocilizumab was administered, and continuous hemodiafiltration and endotoxin adsorption therapy (polymyxin B immobilized fiber direct hemoperfusion) were performed for acute renal failure. C-reactive protein decreased from 44 to 3.52 mg/dL, and the patient’s respiratory status improved over time, enabling mechanical ventilation to be withdrawn. This case indicates that adding polymyxin B immobilized fiber direct hemoperfusion to tocilizumab administration may further increase efficacy in coronavirus disease 2019 treatment; however, more case–control studies are needed.
Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Frontline Health Care Workers During the Pandemic Surge in New York City
Authors: Feingold Jordyn H. , Peccoralo Lauren , Chan Chi C. , Kaplan Carly A. , Kaye-Kauderer Halley , Charney Dennis , Verity Jaclyn , Hurtado Alicia , Burka Larissa , Syed Shumayl A. , Murrough James W. , Feder Adriana , Pietrzak Robert H. , Ripp Jonathan
Published: February 2021

Background

This study sought to assess the magnitude of and factors associated with mental health outcomes among frontline health care workers (FHCWs) providing care during the Spring 2020 COVID-19 pandemic surge in New York City.

Methods

A cross-sectional, survey-based study over 4 weeks during the Spring 2020 pandemic surge was used to assess symptoms of COVID-19-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in 2,579 FHCWs at the Mount Sinai Hospital. Participants were additionally asked about their occupational and personal exposures to COVID-19. Multivariable logistic regression and relative importance analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with these outcomes.

Results

A total of 3,360 of 6,026 individuals completed the survey (55.8% participation), with 2,579 (76.8%) analyzed based on endorsing frontline responsibilities and providing information related to the three outcomes. 1,005 (39.0%) met criteria for symptoms of COVID-19-related PTSD, MDD, or GAD. 599 (23.3%) screened positively for PTSD symptoms, 683 (26.6%) for MDD symptoms, and 642 (25.0%) for GAD symptoms. Multivariable analyses revealed that past-year burnout was associated with the highest risk of developing symptoms for COVID-19-related PTSD (odds ratio [OR] = 2.10), MDD (OR = 2.83), and GAD (OR = 2.68). Higher perceived support from hospital leadership was associated with a lowest risk of all outcomes [PTSD (OR = 0.75), MDD (OR = 0.72), and GAD (OR = 0.76).

Conclusion

In this large sample of FHCWs providing care during the 2020 NYC pandemic surge, 39% experienced symptoms of COVID-19-related PTSD, MDD, and/or GAD and pre-pandemic burnout as well as leadership support were identified as the most highly associated factors. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at reducing burnout and augmenting support from hospital leadership may be appropriate targets to mitigate the risk for developing further psychopathology in this population and others working in the midst of crisis.
Efficacy and Safety of Electromyography‐Guided Injection of Botulinum Toxin to Treat Retrograde Cricopharyngeus Dysfunction
Authors: Wajsberg Benjamin , Hoesli Rebecca C. , Wingo Melissa L. , Bastian Robert W.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To report the efficacy and safety of electromyography‐guided percutaneous botulinum toxin injection into the cricopharyngeus muscle in an office setting for treatment of the inability to belch and associated symptoms caused by retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R‐CPD).

Study Design

Retrospective case series of treated patients.

Setting

Tertiary care laryngology clinic.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on 18 consecutive patients who were diagnosed syndromically with R‐CPD. The combined diagnostic test and treatment—specifically, botulinum toxin injection into the cricopharyngeus muscle—was accomplished in an office setting by a single surgeon using electromyography guidance. Items assessed are efficacy, safety, complications, and duration of benefit.

Results

All 18 patients (100%) treated in the in‐office setting gained the ability to burp with improvement in the associated symptoms of R‐CPD at initial follow‐up. Of those who had the in‐office procedure performed initially, 80% maintained the ability to burp at 6 months with relief of all the associated symptoms of R‐CPD. No patients experienced permanent complications from the injection, but 7 patients experienced varying degrees of noisy breathing within 1 week after the procedure, which was managed with breathing techniques and resolved.

Conclusion

In a case series of 18 patients with R‐CPD, all patients gained the ability to burp with improvement in the majority of their symptoms of R‐CPD at the time of their initial follow‐up at 1 week. None experienced severe complications, and 7 experienced transient noisy breathing, which resolved.
Rethinking life-in-common in the Australian landscape
Authors: Harcourt Wendy
Published: February 2021

This commentary reflects on the shifts in my personal and political lifeworld across time and space by sharing a story of changing awareness about ‘life-in-common’ in the Australian landscape; a landscape that is marked by historical, ecological and resource struggle and injustice. My commentary takes up the rethinking of differential belonging and ‘life-in-common’ as part of the search for alternatives to capitalism and a way to overcome socioecological crises which pays attention to the deep connections of nature and culture. I reflect on life-in-common as an Australian white settler feminist political ecologist wishing to understand how to address the erasures and violence that mark the Australian landscape.
Evolution of fumarolic anhydrous copper sulfate minerals during successive hydration/dehydration
Authors: Siidra Oleg I. , Borisov Artem S. , Charkin Dmitri O. , Depmeier Wulf , Platonova Natalia V.
Published: February 2021

Hydration processes of primary anhydrous minerals as well as dehydration of the hydrated phases are relevant not only for answering geochemical and petrological questions, but are also interesting in the context of the theory of the ‘Evolution of minerals’. Our study of the evolution of anhydrous exhalative sulfates in hydration and dehydration processes has demonstrated the complexity of the processes for a number of minerals from the active high-temperature fumaroles of Tolbachik volcano (chalcocyanite Cu(SO4), dolerophanite Cu2O(SO4), alumoklyuchevskite K3Cu3AlO2(SO4)4 and itelmenite Na2CuMg2(SO4)4). Hydration and dehydration experiments were carried out for all four minerals using powder X-ray diffraction. A typical structural characteristic of several anhydrous copper sulfate minerals of fumarolic origin is the presence of oxygen-centred OCu4 tetrahedra. These are absent in the structures of all known hydrated minerals or synthetic compounds of the class under consideration. Hydration of minerals initially containing O2– anions as part of oxocomplexes, proceeds with sequential formation of a large series of hydroxysalts. On the contrary, hydration of itelmenite with its relatively complex ‘initial’ structure, but without additional oxygen atoms that are strong Lewis bases, results in formation of simpler hydrates. The lower the temperature and the larger the excess of water, the stronger the tendency of the cations to adopt higher hydration numbers thus outcompeting the sulfate anions as ligands. Ultimately, the water molecules completely expel the bridging sulfate anions from the metal coordination sphere yielding relatively simple fully hydrated structures.
Air permeability and sound absorption coefficient changes from ultrasonic treatment in a cross section of Malas (Homalium foetidum)
Authors: Kang Chun-Won , Jang Eun-Suk , Lee Nam-Ho , Jang Sang-Sik , Lee Min
Published: February 2021

We investigated the effect of ultrasonic treatment on Malas (Homalium foetidum) gas permeability and sound absorption coefficient using the transfer function method. Results showed a longitudinal average Darcy permeability constant of 2.02 (standard deviation SD 0.72) for untreated wood and 6.15 (SD 3.07) for ultrasound-treated wood, a permeability increase of 3.04 times. We also determined the average sound absorption coefficients in the range of 50 to 6.4 kHz and NRC (noise reduction coefficient: average value of sound absorption coefficient value at 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz) of untreated Malas. Those values were 0.23 (SD 0.02) and 0.13 (SD 0.01), respectively, while those of ultrasonic-treated Malas were 0.28 (SD 0.02) and 0.14 (SD 0.02), a 19.74% increase in average sound absorption coefficient.
Correction to: Efficacy and safety of the long-acting C5 inhibitor ravulizumab in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome triggered by pregnancy: a subgroup analysis
Authors: Gäckler Anja , Schönermarck Ulf , Dobronravov Vladimir , La Manna Gaetano , Denker Andrew , Liu Peng , Vinogradova Maria , Yoon Sung-Soo , Praga Manuel
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Nivolumab plus ipilimumab versus nivolumab in individuals with treatment-naive programmed death-ligand 1 positive metastatic soft tissue sarcomas: a multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Chen Yaolin , Liu Xiangzhen , Liu Jijun , Liang Donghua , Zhao Mingdong , Yu Weiguang , Chen Pengfei
Published: February 2021

Background

Currently, the choice of treatment for individuals with metastatic soft tissue sarcomas (MSTS) presents a significant challenge to clinicians. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the efficacy and safety of nivolumab plus ipilimumab (NPI) versus nivolumab alone (NIV) in individuals with treatment-naive programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) positive MSTS.

Methods

Prospectively maintained databases were reviewed from 2013 to 2018 to assess individuals with treatment-naive PD-L1 MSTS who received NPI (nivolumab 3 mg/kg and ipilimumab 1 mg/kg every 3 weeks for 4 doses followed by nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks) or NIV (3 mg/kg every 2 weeks) until disease progression, withdrawal, unendurable [AEs], or death. The co-primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

The median follow-up was 16.0 months (IQR 14.4–18.5) after targeted intervention. The median OS was 12.2 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.1–13.7) and 9.2 months (95% CI, 4.2–11.5) for the NPI and NIV groups, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] 0.49, 95% CI, 0.33–0.73; p=0.0002); the median PFS was 4.1 months (95% CI, 3.2–4.5) and 2.2 months (95% CI, 1.1–3.4) for the NPI and NIV groups, respectively (HR 0.51, 95% CI, 0.36–0.71; p< 0.0001). Key grade 3–5 AEs occurred more frequently in the NPI group than in the NIV group (94 [72.9%] for NPI vs. 35 [27.1%], p< 0.001).

Conclusions

For treatment-naive PD-L1 positive MSTS, NPI seems to be less tolerated but has a greater survival advantage than NIV as the primary therapy.
Responsibility for chemical exposures: perspectives from small beauty salons and auto shops in southern metropolitan Tucson
Authors: Lee Amanda A. , Ingram Maia , Quijada Carolina , Yubeta Andres , Cortez Imelda , Lothrop Nathan , Beamer Paloma
Published: February 2021

Background

Throughout the United States, low-wage, minority workers are disproportionately affected by occupational illnesses and injuries. Chronic exposure to hazardous chemicals at work can lead to serious illnesses, contributing to health inequities. In this article, we expand on theories of ‘responsibilization’ in an occupational health context to reveal how responsibilities for workplace chemical exposures are negotiated by workers and owners in Latinx-owned small businesses.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with a total of 22 workers and owners in auto repair shops and beauty salons – two high-risk industries – in Southern Metropolitan Tucson. Participants were asked about their insights into workplace chemical exposures and health. A qualitative analysis team with representation from all study partner organizations collectively coded and reviewed the interview data in QSR International’s NVivo 11 and identified overarching themes across the interviews.

Results

We identified three primary themes: 1) ambivalence toward risks in the workplace; 2) shifting responsibilities for exposure protection at work; and 3) reflections on the system behind chemical exposure risks. Participants discussed the complexities that small businesses face in reducing chemical exposures.

Conclusions

Through our analysis of the interviews, we examine how neoliberal occupational and environmental policies funnel responsibility for controlling chemical exposures down to individuals in small businesses with limited resources, obscuring the power structures that maintain environmental health injustices. We conclude with a call for upstream policy changes that more effectively regulate and hold accountable the manufacturers of chemical products used daily by small business workers.
Isolation of equid alphaherpesvirus 3 from a horse in Iceland with equine coital exanthema
Authors: Thorsteinsdóttir Lilja , Guðmundsson Gunnar Örn , Jensson Höskuldur , Torsteinsdóttir Sigurbjörg , Svansson Vilhjálmur
Published: February 2021

Equine coital exanthema (ECE) caused by equid alphaherpesvirus 3 (EHV-3) is a contagious venereal disease. It is characterized by the formation of papules, vesicles, pustules and ulcers on the external genitals of both mares and stallions. The Icelandic horse is the only breed in Iceland and has lived isolated in the country for over 1000 years. Three types of equine herpesviruses (EHV) have been found in Iceland, EHV-4, EHV-2 and EHV-5, while EHV-1 has never been detected. Symptoms resembling ECE have previous been observed in horses in Iceland, arousing suspicion of EHV-3 infection, but this has never been confirmed using virological methods. Samples were collected from a mare with papules on the vulva and inoculated in primary equine kidney cells. Cytopathic effects developed as rounded cells and syncytial formation. Polymerase chain reaction and sequencing of the partial glycoprotein G and DNA polymerase genes identified the isolated virus as EHV-3. On the basis of the findings, EHV-3 infection was verified for the first time in the native Icelandic horse population.
Quality in crisis: a systematic review of the quality of health systems in humanitarian settings
Authors: Jordan Keely , Lewis Todd P. , Roberts Bayard
Published: February 2021

Background

There is a growing concern that the quality of health systems in humanitarian crises and the care they provide has received little attention. To help better understand current practice and research on health system quality, this paper aimed to examine the evidence on the quality of health systems in humanitarian settings.

Methods

This systematic review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. The context of interest was populations affected by humanitarian crisis in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs). We included studies where the intervention of interest, health services for populations affected by crisis, was provided by the formal health system. Our outcome of interest was the quality of the health system. We included primary research studies, from a combination of information sources, published in English between January 2000 and January 2019 using quantitative and qualitative methods. We used the High Quality Health Systems Framework to analyze the included studies by quality domain and sub-domain.

Results

We identified 2285 articles through our search, of which 163 were eligible for full-text review, and 55 articles were eligible for inclusion in our systematic review. Poor diagnosis, inadequate patient referrals, and inappropriate treatment of illness were commonly cited barriers to quality care. There was a strong focus placed on the foundations of a health system with emphasis on the workforce and tools, but a limited focus on the health impacts of health systems. The review also suggests some barriers to high quality health systems that are specific to humanitarian settings such as language barriers for refugees in their host country, discontinued care for migrant populations with chronic conditions, and fears around provider safety.

Conclusion

The review highlights a large gap in the measurement of quality both at the point of care and at the health system level. There is a need for further work particularly on health system measurement strategies, accountability mechanisms, and patient-centered approaches in humanitarian settings.