bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“When Henry Met Fritz”: Rules As Organizational Frameworks For Emergent Strategy Process
Authors: Foss Nicolai J. , McCaffrey Matthew C. , Dorobat Carmen-Elena
Published: July 2021

Henry Mintzberg’s celebrated critique of the “design school” argued that strategy is best thought of as adaptive, bottom-up, and based on dispersed knowledge and learning. Yet Mintzberg’s account lacks a clear and comprehensive theoretical underpinning, especially regarding how to guide emergent strategy in dynamic environments, and leverage it to exploit value creation. We provide this foundation by showing how Mintzberg’s critique of planning and design at the level of organizational strategy is in key ways anticipated by F.A. Hayek’s critique of planning and design at the societal level. Both writers are critical of rationalist epistemology and instead stress experiential knowledge, fallibility, and unanticipated social consequences. Hayek also extends Mintzberg’s work by showing how rules in the firm capture adaptive, experiential, tacit, and dispersed knowledge in the context of dynamic environments. A framework of rules thus creates inimitable and non-substitutable resources that enable the firm to fully exploit its competitive advantage.
Sleepless Nights While Our Doctoral Students Are in the Field: Supervisor Reflections on Ethical Challenges
Authors: Hutchings Kate , Michailova Snejina
Published: July 2021

Prior studies have highlighted ethical challenges in researching in developing countries but have not explored the ethical issues for supervisors when their doctoral students undertake qualitative fieldwork in such contexts. Doctoral research in developing countries has the potential to provide valuable knowledge; yet, where data cannot be collected, important potential knowledge is lost. Moreover, where doctoral research does not follow ethical practice there is potential for damaged relations between organizations and universities, which can impact student, supervisor, and university reputation. Thus, doctoral students’ supervisors have an essential role in providing training to ensure ethical and culturally appropriate research. We reflect on our experiences as supervisors of business doctoral students who collected original data in developing countries and underpin these reflections with our own extensive (international) management research in developing countries to discuss ethical challenges for supervisors. We offer insights and action guidelines for current and prospective students, supervisors, and universities.
When Human Factors Fails: Intentional and Unintentional Bad Designs
Authors: Kortum Philip
Published: July 2021

The primary goal of human factors is to create systems that can be easily used by their intended audience, while minimizing the number of mistakes that a user might make. However, sometimes human factors principles are applied in ways that makes a user’s task harder. Sometimes this is intentional, and the designer uses human factors as justification for creating an exclusionary design. In other cases, it is unintentional, and the application of human factors was done in a haphazard or incomplete way, with the resulting design at cross-purposes with the original intent. In either case, that’s bad human factors.
Race and Resources in Brazilian Mayoral Elections
Authors: Janusz Andrew
Published: July 2021

Elected officials routinely do not reflect the racial diversity of the citizenry. In Latin America, these descriptive gaps are particularly pronounced. A growing number of studies investigate the causes of racial disparities in representation, however, extant research largely focuses on national assemblies. In this paper, I extend this well-trod line of research to an understudied context, local elections. Using a dataset that covers mayoral elections in Brazil, I demonstrate that multiple factors hinder Afro-Brazilians, who comprise a majority of the Brazilian population, from winning public office. I show that barriers to candidate entry, resource disparities between white and Afro-Brazilian candidates, and race-based preferences among voters contribute to racial inequality in political representation. These results indicate that members of marginalized racial groups often must overcome multiple barriers to achieve electoral success.
Development and Initial Validation of a Scale Assessing Suicide-Specific Rumination: The Suicide Rumination Scale
Authors: Rogers Megan L. , Law Keyne C. , Houtsma Claire , Tucker Raymond P. , Anestis Michael D. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: July 2021

Suicide-specific rumination, a repetitive mental fixation on one’s suicidal thoughts and intentions, may influence the transition from suicidal thoughts to behaviors. Research on suicide-specific rumination has been hindered by the lack of an independent measurement tool. This article presents the development and validation of a self-report measure of suicide-specific rumination across several samples with lifetime suicidal ideation (Sample 1: N = 494 students; Sample 2: N = 219 community members; Sample 3: N = 128 adults at high risk for suicide). The Suicide Rumination Scale (SRS) item pool was reduced from a pool of 41 items to 8 items that are highly discriminant and of varying levels of difficulty. The SRS demonstrated measurement invariance, convergent validity, and nonredundancy with related measures. Importantly, the SRS differentiated suicide attempters from ideators, suggesting its potential clinical relevance. Overall, these findings suggest that the SRS is a valid and incrementally useful measure of suicide-specific rumination.
Configurations to Superior Environmental Innovation Strategy: A Both–And Approach
Authors: Russo-Spena Tiziana , Di Paola Nadia , O’Driscoll Aidan
Published: July 2021

An effective climate change action involves the critical role that companies must play in assuring the long-term human and social well-being of future generations. In our study, we offer a more holistic, inclusive, both–and approach to the challenge of environmental innovation (EI) that uses a novel methodology to identify relevant configurations for firms engaging in a superior EI strategy. A conceptual framework is proposed that identifies six sets of driving characteristics of EI and two sets of beneficial outcomes, all inherently tensional. Our analysis utilizes a complementary rather than an oppositional point of view. A data set of 65 companies in the ICT value chain is analyzed via fuzzy-set comparative analysis (fsQCA) and a post-QCA procedure. The results reveal that achieving a superior EI strategy is possible in several scenarios. Specifically, after close examination, two main configuration groups emerge, referred to as technological environmental innovators and organizational environmental innovators.
Effectiveness of ultrasound-guided cannulation of AVF on infiltration rates: A single center quality improvement study
Authors: Dua Niyyar Vandana , Buch Kunal , Rawls Forest , Broxton Rodella
Published: July 2021

Though ultrasonography is increasingly used throughout the spectrum of hemodialysis access, its role in outpatient dialysis units in the United States has been limited so far. This may, in part, be due to limited ultrasound exposure, knowledge and training of dialysis staff. We implemented a quality improvement initiative in our dialysis units to expand the use of ultrasound by our frontline dialysis staff to prospectively evaluate newly placed AVF and guide cannulation. This manuscript describes our experience and the impact of our protocol on infiltration rates in our outpatient HD units.
Rapid Assessment of Vascular Exit Site and Tunneling Options (RAVESTO): A new decision tool in the management of the complex vascular access patients
Authors: Ostroff Matthew D , Moureau Nancy , Pittiruti Mauro
Published: July 2021

In the last decade, different standardized protocols have been developed for a systematic ultrasound venous assessment before central venous catheterization: RaCeVA (Rapid Central Vein Assessment), RaPeVA (Rapid Peripheral Vein Assessment), and RaFeVA (Rapid Femoral Vein Assessment). Such protocols were designed to locate the ideal puncture site to minimize insertion-related complications. Recently, subcutaneous tunneling of non-cuffed central venous access devices at bedside has also grown in acceptance. The main rationale for tunneling is to relocate the exit site based on patient factors and concerns for dislodgement. The tool we describe (RAVESTO—Rapid Assessment of Vascular Exit Site and Tunneling Options) defines the different options of subcutaneous tunneling and their indications in different clinical situations in patients with complex vascular access.
A Clinician’s Guide to Topical Retinoids
Authors: Motamedi Melika , Chehade Ahmad , Sanghera Ravina , Grewal Parbeer
Published: July 2021

Retinoids are defined as molecules that bind to and activate retinoic acid receptors to influence the proliferation and differentiation of cells. Topical retinoids have evolved over the past several decades, being used in multiple dermatological conditions. This review aims to differentiate between synthetic and natural retinoids, discuss the pharmacology behind topical retinoids, highlight clinical applications, and categorize all the commercially available agents, including combination products. Understanding retinoid affinities for unique receptor subtypes can impact clinical decisions, resulting in optimizing treatment and enhancing patient adherence.
Gendered and generational dynamics of domestic automations
Authors: Sinanan Jolynna , Horst Heather A
Published: July 2021

Automation in the home is often presented as a value neutral process which makes life easier, more efficient and more productive. As recent research on the introduction of domestic technologies has revealed, these technologies are rarely value neutral and often work to reinforce gender dynamics in the household. This article examines the gendered and generational dimensions of how smart and automated technologies are being integrated into homes. Drawing upon 3 years research conducted between 2015 and 2017 in 11 households in Melbourne, Australia, we examine how households manage the storing and transfer of digital material and digital devices (images, videos and files from smartphones, tablets and laptops). Digital materials move within households and between different family members, and these processes are governed by often unstated rules, including changes in the life course. By examining the relationships between gendered and generational roles and automation in the household, we highlight the importance of smaller scale interpersonal relationships, which influences the negotiation of automation in emotionally laden contexts of families. Automated decision making may both support and challenge gendered norms around technology ownership and management.
Reducing inequality in avoidable emergency admissions: Case studies of local health care systems in England using a realist approach
Authors: Ford John , Knight Julia , Brittain John , Bentley Chris , Sowden Sarah , Castro Ana , Doran Tim , Cookson Richard
Published: July 2021

Objective

People in disadvantaged areas are more likely to have an avoidable emergency hospital admission. Socio-economic inequality in avoidable emergency hospital admissions is monitored in England. Our aim was to inform local health care purchasing and planning by identifying recent health care system changes (or other factors), as reported by local health system leaders, that might explain narrowing or widening trends.

Methods

Case studies were undertaken in one pilot and at five geographically distinct local health care systems (Clinical Commissioning Groups, CCGs), identified as having consistently increasing or decreasing inequality. Local settings were explored through discussions with CCG officials and stakeholders to identify potential local determinants. Data were analysed using a realist evaluation approach to generate context-mechanism-outcome (CMO) configurations.

Results

Of the five geographically distinct CCGs, two had narrowing inequality, two widening, and one narrowing inequality, which widened during the project. None of the CCGs had designed a large-scale package of service changes with the explicit aim of reducing socio-economic inequality in avoidable emergency admissions, and local decision makers were unfamiliar with their own trends. Potential primary and community care determinants included: workforce, case finding and exclusion, proactive care co-ordination for patients with complex needs, and access and quality. Potential commissioning determinants included: data use and incentives, and targeting of services. Other potential determinants included changes in care home services, national A&E targets, and wider issues - such as public services financial constraints, residential gentrification, and health care expectations.

Conclusions

We did not find any bespoke initiatives that explained the inequality trends. The trends were more likely due to an interplay of multiple health care and wider system factors. Local decision makers need greater awareness, understanding and support to interpret, use and act upon inequality indicators. They are unlikely to find simple, cheap interventions to reduce inequalities in avoidable emergency admissions. Rather, long-term multifaceted interventions are required that embed inequality considerations into mainstream decision making.
A survey of mental health professionals in a paediatric hospital during COVID-19
Authors: Ching Brian CF , Bennett Sophie D , Heyman Isobel , Liang Holan , Catanzano Matteo , Fifield Kate , Berger Zoe , Gray Suzanne , Hewson Emma , Bryon Mandy , Coughtrey Anna E , Shafran Roz
Published: July 2021

Background

There is little understanding of the mental health impact for young people with long-term physical health conditions and mental health professionals’ experiences of supporting them during COVID-19. This service evaluation aimed to conduct a survey of the psychological services provided by mental health professionals in a paediatric hospital in relation to COVID-19.

Method

Clinical psychologists and assistant psychologists ( n = 76) across the hospital were asked to complete a survey, asking about their perceptions of COVID-19’s impact on patients and families and experiences of providing support during COVID-19. Open-ended survey questions were analysed qualitatively using framework analysis.

Results

Respondents described perceived impacts on patients and families around social isolation, school closure, family relationships, physical health, mental health, treatments and social support. Respondents’ experiences of providing mental health support during COVID-19 highlighted themes around providing remote/virtual support, workload and facilitators and barriers to their work.

Conclusions

Mental health professionals surveyed reported a complex mental health landscape in young people with long-term physical health conditions and their families during COVID-19. Service-wide involvement is needed to facilitate changes to support vital adaptations to remote/virtual working. Research on the mental health of young people with long-term physical health conditions and staff experiences of providing support is warranted.
Cognitive processes in autism: Repetitive thinking in autistic versus non-autistic adults
Authors: Cooper Kate , Russell Ailsa , Calley Steph , Chen Huilin , Kramer Jaxon , Verplanken Bas
Published: July 2021

Repetitive and restricted behaviours are a core feature of autism, and cognition in autistic individuals may also be repetitive and restricted. We aimed to investigate the relationship between repetitive behaviours and repetitive thinking. We predicted that autistic people would experience more repetitive, perseverative, visual and negative cognition than controls. We predicted that repetitive thinking would be associated with repetitive behaviours in the autistic participants. We recruited autistic ( n = 54) and control ( n = 66) participants who completed measures of insistence on sameness and obsessive-compulsive behaviours. Participants then took part in 5 days of descriptive experiencing sampling, recording their thoughts when a random alarm sounded. Consistent with our hypothesis, autistic participants reported more repetitive thinking. Contrary with our other hypotheses, autistic participants reported equivalent frequency of perseveration, visual thoughts and negative thoughts to non-autistic participants. Moreover, participants who reported more obsessive thinking reported more repetitive behaviour (insistence on sameness), but there was no such relationship between repetitive thinking and behaviour. Autistic participants who reported more repeated thoughts in the descriptive experience sampling had significantly lower obsessive thinking scores. We conclude that anxiety focused cognitions may drive insistence on sameness behaviours, and that the relationship between repetitive cognition and behaviour is complex and warrants further investigation.

Lay abstract

A core feature of autism is the tendency to do the same activity or behaviour repetitively. We wanted to find out if autistic people also experience repetitive thinking, for example, having the same thoughts repeatedly. We thought that there would be a link between repetitive behaviour and repetitive thinking. We asked 54 autistic people and 66 non-autistic people to complete questionnaires measuring repetitive behaviours and obsessive thinking. Next, participants were trained by a researcher to record their thoughts using a structured paper form. They then completed 5 days of thought recording, which they did each time a random alarm sounded on their mobile phone. We found that autistic people had more repetitive thoughts than non-autistic people, but they did not report having more negative or visual thoughts compared with non-autistic people. Autistic people who had more repetitive thoughts during the 5 days of thought recording did not report more repetitive behaviour. However, autistic people who reported more obsessive thinking, for example, more negative and unwanted thoughts, also reported higher levels of repetitive behaviour. We conclude that some repetitive behaviours may be linked to anxiety and that more research is needed to better understand repetitive behaviours in autism.
Seeing and knowing in interaction: Two distinct resources for action construction
Authors: Nishizaka Aug
Published: July 2021

Using the methodology of conversation analysis to examine interactions in outdoor activities, this study explores how participants specifically see an object or event in the development of an activity. In particular, the distinction between (visual) perception and knowledge is oriented to by the participants as a practical issue that informs their alternative action constructions. This distinction matters as a resource for implementing an action in an interaction. The data are in Japanese with English translations.
Ethical concerns in maternal and child healthcare in Malawi
Authors: Msiska Gladys , Munkhondya Tiwonge , Munkhondya Berlington , Ngoma Lucy , Kunkeyani Hlalapi , Simwaka Andrew , Smith Pam , Kululanga Lucy , Gundo Rodwell , Kabuluzi Ezereth , Mapulanga Patrick , Mulenga Chisomo
Published: July 2021

Background

Caring is a core function of nurses and it confers upon them ethical obligations as ethical agents. Failure to carry out such ethical obligations raises ethical concerns. This study was not intended to explore ethical concerns, but the reported findings reveal problems which have ethical implications. This paper aims to elucidate the ethical issues inherent in the findings and propose strategies to mitigate them.

Research design and methods

An exploratory-descriptive qualitative design was used within a larger Action Research Study. Data were collected through focus group discussions with nurse/midwives, and through exit interviews which were conducted with the women who participated in the study on their day of discharge. Six focus group discussions and thirty exit interviews were conducted, and data were analysed through thematic analysis.

Participants and research context

The study took place at selected maternal and child healthcare settings in Lilongwe, Malawi. The participants were nurse/midwives and women who were admitted in maternal and child healthcare settings and were purposively sampled.

Ethical considerations

Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant ethics committee and all ethical guidelines were followed in the conduct of the study.

Findings

The findings are presented under three themes which emerged from the data. The findings reveal effects of staff shortages on patient outcomes, problems experienced in low resource clinical settings and disrespectful nurse/patient communication.

Conclusion

The findings reveal that institutional factors constrain moral agency and patient safety is severely compromised in some of the clinical settings in Malawi which raises serious ethical concerns.
A review of respiratory manifestations and their management in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorders
Authors: Chohan Karan , Mittal Nimish , McGillis Laura , Lopez-Hernandez Laura , Camacho Encarna , Rachinsky Maxim , Mina Daniel Santa , Reid W Darlene , Ryan Clodagh Mai , Champagne Kateri Agnes , Orchanian-Cheff Ani , Clarke Hance , Rozenberg Dmitry
Published: July 2021

Background:

Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) are a heterogeneous group of heritable genetic connective tissue disorders with multiple characteristics including joint hypermobility, tissue fragility, and multiple organ dysfunction. Respiratory manifestations have been described in EDS patients, but have not been systematically characterized. A narrative review was undertaken to describe the respiratory presentations and management strategies of individuals with EDS and HSD.

Methods:

A broad literature search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane CENTRAL was undertaken from inception to November 2020 of all study types, evaluating EDS/ HSD and pulmonary conditions. This narrative review was limited to adult patients and publications in English.

Results:

Respiratory manifestations have generally been described in hypermobile EDS (hEDS), classical and vascular EDS subtypes. Depending on EDS subtype, they may include but are not limited to dyspnea, dysphonia, asthma, sleep apnea, and reduced respiratory muscle function, with hemothorax and pneumothorax often observed with vascular EDS. Respiratory manifestations in HSD have been less frequently characterized in the literature, but exertional dyspnea is the more common symptom described. Respiratory symptoms in EDS can have an adverse impact on quality of life. The respiratory management of EDS patients has followed standard approaches with thoracotomy tubes and pleurodesis for pleural manifestations, vocal cord strengthening exercises, continuous positive pressure support for sleep apnea, and exercise training. Reduced respiratory muscle function in hEDS patients responds to inspiratory muscle training.

Conclusion:

Respiratory symptoms and manifestations are described in EDS and HSD, and have generally been managed using conservative non-surgical strategies. Research into the prevalence, incidence and specific respiratory management strategies in EDS and HSD is needed to mitigate some of the associated morbidity.
First-in-Human Clinical Application of the Medyria TrackCath System in Endovascular Repair of Complex Aortic Aneurysms (ACCESS Trial): A Prospective Multicenter Single-Arm Clinical Trial
Authors: Floros Nikolaos , Kölbel Tilo , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Oberhuber Alexander , Kindl Daniel , Kalder Johannes , Kotelis Drosos , Schmidt Andrej , Branzan Daniela , Adolf Daniela , Schelzig Hubert , Wagenhäuser Markus Udo
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

The Medyria TrackCath Catheter (MedTCC) is an innovative, thermal convection–based blood flow velocity (BFV) tracking catheter that may be used during complex aortic endovascular procedures for identification and catheterization of target orifices. The ACCESS Trial analyzes the safety and performance of the MedTCC for targeted vessel catheterization to generally evaluate the feasibility of thermal convection–based BFV.

Materials and Methods:

We performed a first-in-human, proof-of-concept, prospective single-arm multicenter clinical trial between March 2018 and February 2019 in patients who underwent endovascular aortic procedures at 4 high-volume centers. During these procedures, the MedTCC was advanced over a guidewire through the femoral access. The D-shape was enfolded in the reno-visceral part of the aorta and target orifices were identified and catheterized with a guidewire via the side port of the MedTCC through BFV tracking. BFV measurements were performed at baseline (Baseline-BFV), alignment to the orifice (Orifice-BFV), and following catheterization (Confirmation-BFV) to prove correct identification and catheterization of target orifices. The procedural success rate, the catheterization success rate, procedure-related parameters, and (serious) adverse events ((S)AE) during the follow-up were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 38 patients were included in the safety group (SG) and 26 in the performance group (PG). The procedural success rate was 89% (PG), the MedTCC catheterization success rate was 98% (PG). The MedTCC reliably measured BFV changes indicated by significant differences in BFV between Baseline-BFV and Orifice-BFV (p<0.05). Median (interquartile range; IQR) fluoroscopy time per orifice was 5.0 (1.5–8.5) minutes [total surgery 49 (26–74) minutes], median (IQR) contrast agent used per orifice was 1.0 (0–5.0) mL [total surgery 80 (40–100) mL], and median (IQR) MedTCC-based procedural time was 3.0 (2.0–6.0) minutes. There was no device-related SAE.

Conclusions:

The ACCESS Trial suggests that BFV measurement allows for reliable target orifice identification and catheterization. The use of MedTCC is safe and generates short fluoroscopy time and low contrast agent use, which in turn might facilitate complex endovascular procedures.
Proteinase 3 contributes to endothelial dysfunction in an experimental model of sepsis
Authors: Patterson Eric K , Gillio-Meina Carolina , Martin Claudio M , Fraser Douglas D , Van Nynatten Logan R , Slessarev Marat , Cepinskas Gediminas
Published: July 2021

In sepsis-induced inflammation, polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) contribute to vascular dysfunction. The serine proteases proteinase 3 (PR3) and human leukocyte elastase (HLE) are abundant in PMNs and are released upon degranulation. While HLE’s role in inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction is well studied, PR3’s role is largely uninvestigated. We hypothesized that PR3, similarly to HLE, contributes to vascular barrier dysfunction in sepsis. Plasma PR3 and HLE concentrations and their leukocyte mRNA levels were measured by ELISA and qPCR, respectively, in sepsis patients and controls. Exogenous PR3 or HLE was applied to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and HUVEC dysfunction was assessed by FITC-dextran permeability and electrical resistance. Both PR3 and HLE protein and mRNA levels were significantly increased in sepsis patients ( P < 0.0001 and P < 0.05, respectively). Additionally, each enzyme independently increased HUVEC monolayer FITC-dextran permeability ( P < 0.01), and decreased electrical resistance in a time- and dose-dependent manner ( P < 0.001), an effect that could be ameliorated by novel treatment with carbon monoxide-releasing molecule 3 (CORM-3). The serine protease PR3, in addition to HLE, lead to vascular dysfunction and increased endothelial permeability, a hallmark pathological consequence of sepsis-induced inflammation. CORMs may offer a new strategy to reduce serine protease-induced vascular dysfunction.
Exploring Potential Mediation Pathways on the Relationship Between Acculturation and Body Mass Index (BMI) Among Latino Adolescents
Authors: Johansen Christopher , Reynolds Kim D. , Xie Bin , Palmer Paula
Published: July 2021

Background:

Positive associations have been observed between acculturation and body mass index (BMI), but the mediators of this relationship are not well established. Acculturation researchers have called for investigating the influence of socio-contextual variables as mediators. The objective of this study was to test the mediating effects of salty snacks, sweet snacks, physical activity, and sedentary behavior on the relationship between acculturation and BMI among Latino adolescents.

Methods:

Adolescents who self-identified as Latino ( n = 431) at public high schools in Southern California were recruited and completed a self-report survey. A bootstrapped multiple mediation model was used to test mediation pathways.

Results:

Acculturation was positively associated with physical activity ( B = 0.09, p < .05). The indirect effects of salty snacks, sweet snacks, physical activity, and sedentary behavior were not associated with BMI, suggesting no mediation.

Conclusions:

Future research should examine additional mediating variables on the relationship between acculturation and BMI.
Incidental Finding of Fibromuscular Dysplasia in a Right Upper Limb Radial Artery by Duplex Ultrasound
Authors: Collins Carolyn , Fitzgerald Patricia , Ahmed Zeeshan , Elkady Ramy , Naughton Peter , McHugh Seamus , Aly Sayed , Moneley Daragh , Kheirelseid Elrasheid
Published: July 2021

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an idiopathic, non-atherosclerotic, and non-inflammatory systemic arterial disease which can affect all 3 layers of the small and medium-sized arteries. It can present as stenosis, aneurysm, dissection, or occlusion. FMD is more prevalent in women than in men. The medial type, described as a “string of beads appearance,” as documented in this case study, presents as a succession of dilatations and multifocal stenosis. This is the most common form and occurs in typically 60% to 70% of cases. We present a case report documenting an incidental finding of FMD within an upper limb forearm artery following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Numerical study on the flow characteristics of centrifugal compressor impeller with crack damage
Authors: Liang Zhaoyu , Xiang Longhao , Wei Xuesong , Chen Songying , Liu Jingting , Hao Zongrui
Published: July 2021

The distribution and characteristics of internal flow field of the impeller with crack damage in service environment was investigated via numerical simulation with RNG k-ε turbulence model. The diffuser and volute are added based on the original impeller to simulate the internal flow field comprehensively. It was found that along the flow direction, the pressure, velocity, and temperature of the fluid increase continuously, and the maximum value appears near the outlet of the impeller. The maximum pressure and velocity in the crack area are distributed around the middle section and the trailing edge of the crack. Entropy production theory was applied in the study of internal flow, which reveals that the entropy production becomes larger around the crack. The further propagation of the crack is promoted by the opening force perpendicular to the entrance direction of the middle crack, the corrosion propagation at the rear edge of the crack, and the thermal deformation of the blade. The accelerated crack process will finally lead to the blade fracture accident.
Analysis of friction and cutting parameters when milling honeycomb composite structures
Authors: Zarrouk Tarik , Salhi Jamal-Eddine , Nouari Mohammed , Salhi Merzouki , Atlati Samir , Salhi Najim , Makich Hamid
Published: July 2021

In machining, tool/workpiece interface parameters are complicated to estimate by experimental means alone. Numerical methods can then give critical solutions to predict and analyze the parameters influencing the machining. The friction between the tool and the cutter has a direct influence on the milling parameters. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the friction mechanism between the tool and the workpiece to estimate the milling parameters of Nomex honeycomb structures correctly. This work aims to present a 3D Finite Element numerical model allowing the prediction of the cutting forces correctly, the morphology of the chips, and the surface quality generated during the milling of this type of structure. These studies were obtained using the commercial software ABAQUS/Explicit. It has been demonstrated that the coupling between the isotropic elastoplastic approach and the Coulomb friction law can easily simulate the milling of Nomex honeycomb structures and gives excellent results in comparison with those obtained experimentally.
Mapping trends in educational-leadership research: A longitudinal examination of knowledge production, approaches and locations
Authors: McGinity Ruth , Heffernan Amanda , Courtney Steven J
Published: July 2021

The field of educational-leadership research has broadened over the last 50 years, with diverse knowledge-production traditions (e.g. functionalist and critical); audiences (e.g. practitioners, researchers and policymakers) and preferred sites of publication. In this article, we trace how the objectives, methods, claims and relative significance of educational-leadership research, and the identities and epistemological assumptions of educational-leadership researchers, are changing over time.

We systematically and manually analysed trends in educational-leadership research through keyword searches across all journal publication sites over 50 years, exploring researchers’ contributions, epistemological positioning and journal choices. We also explored the balance between empirical and conceptual scholarship, geographical location and use of theory. We found that critical educational-leadership research is common across the international field but is more likely to be published in high-ranking generalist education journals or lower-ranking educational-leadership-focused journals. Our research contributes a novel, robust and, significantly, relatively wide-ranging empirical basis to identify key trends, gaps and silences within the field of educational-leadership research over time. Our research enables better understanding of the areas that are potentially under-researched and the ways the field might be creating and reproducing power dynamics in research.
When readers fail to form a coherent representation of garden-path sentences
Authors: Chromý Jan
Published: July 2021

Various studies within the Good-Enough Approach observe that people often make errors in answering comprehension questions after reading garden-path sentences such as While Anna dressed the baby played in the crib. Recently, it has been claimed that readers form a full syntactic analysis of these sentences, but they do not completely prune the original misanalysis. This article presents evidence that these findings do not hold for all garden-path sentences. The main finding of the Good-Enough Approach—that the comprehension questions targeting the initial misanalysis yield significantly higher rates of incorrect answers after garden-path sentences, in comparison with after control sentences—was replicated here in three self-paced reading experiments on Czech. However, these experiments show a similar pattern of results for other comprehension questions, such as questions targeting an analysis that is not syntactically licensed at any point of processing. These results point out that certain garden-path structures may be very hard to process and that the process of garden-path repair might not be successful at all. Based on these results and the results of previous studies, the idea of a range of difficulty levels for garden-path structures is proposed.
Factors influencing the use of different methods of consent in a randomized acute stroke trial: The Third International Stroke Trial (IST-3)
Authors: Lindley Richard I , Kane Ingrid , Cohen Geoff , Sandercock Peter AG
Published: July 2021

Background

Obtaining informed consent in people with acute stroke is complex since many, as a direct result of their stroke, lose capacity to make important decisions. Furthermore, reperfusion interventions are time dependent necessitating rapid consent. We developed four different consent approaches to facilitate recruitment of a broad range of patients in the Third International Stroke Trial (IST-3).

Aims

To describe the clinical characteristics of patients recruited by different consent methods and the association between these methods and time from stroke onset to randomization.

Methods

IST-3 was a randomized controlled trial of thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke. Clinicians could use one of four consent procedures: written consent, witnessed consent, assent, or a waiver of consent. We analyzed the relationship between consent procedure and baseline variables. The effect of consent procedure on delay time from onset to randomization was determined using analysis of variance to adjust for confounding effects.

Results

Of the 3035 patients recruited, the method of consent was known for 3034 (99.9%), and it was written in 985 subjects (32.5%), witnessed verbal consent in 280 (9.2%), assent by relative in 1727 (56.9%), and waiver of consent in 42 subjects (1.4%). Assent was required in 63.4% for those presenting 0–3 h from stroke onset (written consent in 25.3%). Patients with more severe neurological deficits (or with a non-lacunar hemispheric stroke syndrome) were less likely to give written consent. Mean delay between onset and randomization varied significantly between consent types (one-way analysis of variance: F = 15.7 on 3 df, p < 0.0001) (longest at 4.06 h for signed consent and 3.46 h for waiver of consent).

Conclusions

Acute stroke trials requiring written informed consent would result in substantial selection bias. Flexible consent methods will ensure a broad range of patients are recruited, enabling trial results to be widely generalizable. Registration: This study’s registered number is ISRCTN25765518.
Synthesis and properties of unsymmetrical porphyrins possessing an isonicotinic acid moiety and phenyl, methoxyphenyl, or chlorophenyl groups
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Li Yao , Wang Binbin
Published: July 2021

The isonicotinic acid containing porphyrin compounds 5-{4-[3-(4-pyridylcarbonyloxy)propoxy]phenyl}-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin, 5-{4-[3-(4-pyridylcarbonyloxy)propoxy]phenyl}-10,15,20-tri(4-methoxyphenyl)porphyrin, and 5-{4-[3-(4-pyridylcarbonyloxy)propoxy]phenyl}-10,15,20-tri(4-chlorophenyl)porphyrin are prepared and characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS, elemental analysis, IR, and UV-Vis. In addition, their spectroscopic properties are investigated through using the Raman spectroscopy, fluorescence, and surface photovoltage measurements. The influence of different substituents on Raman spectra is small, but their impact on the fluorescence spectra and surface photovoltage measurements is significant. Molecular dynamic simulations and UV-Vis diffuse-reflectance spectra show that these porphyrin compounds are potential semiconductor materials.
The making of a narrative: The use of geopolitical othering in Russian strategic narratives during the Ukraine crisis
Authors: Claessen Eva
Published: July 2021

The events of the crisis in Ukraine (2013–2014) have created an unprecedented rift in EU–Russia relations. The focal point is often put on the long-term development of mutual frustrations due to clashing initiatives in the shared neighbourhood and an overall atmosphere of mistrust. This article makes the case that the culmination of mutual frustrations made its way into official communication and led to the embedding of elements of ‘geopolitical othering’ in Russia’s narrative on the events in Ukraine. Throughout the various stages of the conflict, representations of the role played by the EU became a recurring theme in Russia’s narrative on Ukraine’s choice between the EU and accession to the ECU. While the presence of geopolitical othering did seem to provide a stabilizing effect on the narrative, the countries’ embedded nature led to the rapid development of contentious communication, complicating potential narrative convergence between both actors.
Rethinking surgical strategy in the management of obstetrical palsy
Authors: Oberlin Christophe
Published: July 2021

The widespread use of the operating microscope for nerve repairs has inspired operative treatment for obstetric paralysis. For a long time, the standard treatment has been based on early nerve surgery. However, the generally accepted strategy for treating obstetric paralysis is far from satisfactory. The main sequels we have observed are due to incorrect treatment of the deficits or due to devastating early nerve surgery. Therefore, a different approach should be considered and designed to prevent and treat the main deficits. After examining over 1000 non-operated patients over almost four decades and in three different countries, I have never encountered anyone who has not recovered active contraction of shoulder muscles or relatively strong elbow flexion. Therefore, I recommend not to have early nerve surgery.
Vaccination in multiple sclerosis patients treated with highly effective disease-modifying drugs: an overview with consideration of cladribine tablets
Authors: Gold Ralf , Fätkenheuer Gerd , Hartung Hans-Peter , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Marks Reinhard , Maschke Matthias , Bayas Antonios , Löbermann Micha , Zettl Uwe K. , Wiendl Heinz
Published: July 2021

Infectious diseases are an important consideration in autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Infective episodes may trigger relapses and significantly deteriorate the course of the disease. Some immunotherapies may cause increased rates of infection-related adverse events. Thus, infection and vaccine-related issues should be included in the individualized patient-specific treatment strategy and counseling before starting therapy and regularly on treatment. Clinical and epidemiological studies as well as pharmacovigilance data repeatedly demonstrated the safety of the great majority of vaccines in multiple sclerosis patients. Moreover, studies have shown that vaccinations with killed/inactivated vaccines do not increase the short-term risk of relapse or deterioration in multiple sclerosis, whereas infections have been shown to provoke relapses. The available evidence indicates reduced humoral vaccination efficacy on treatment with MS drugs acting on the S1P receptor, natalizumab, and B-cell depleting therapies. Recent data for cladribine tablets suggest the potential of effective immunization in the interval of the two treatment courses and after completion of therapy. Regardless of treatment, vaccine efficacy may be optimized with proper timing of application. Multiple sclerosis patients receiving highly effective therapies should be vaccinated according to general recommendations for healthy adults. Immunization against COVID-19 is highly recommended for all multiple sclerosis patients regardless of age and comorbidities. Preliminary data show the potential of adequate responses in patients treated with cladribine tablets.
Is there any room for PD-1 inhibitors in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy as frontline treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer? A systematic review and meta-analysis with indirect comparisons among subgroups and landmark survival analyses
Authors: Gristina Valerio , Galvano Antonio , Castellana Luisa , Insalaco Lavinia , Cusenza Stefania , Graceffa Giuseppa , Iacono Federica , Barraco Nadia , Castiglia Marta , Perez Alessandro , Rizzo Sergio , Russo Antonio , Bazan Viviana
Published: July 2021

Background:

The addition of PD-L1 inhibitors to platinum-based chemotherapy (CT) has newly received United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in extensive stage-small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). PD-1 agents similarly improved survival rates, even if not yet supported by international regulatory agencies. The current work aims to assess different efficacy and safety profiles among chemoimmunotherapy plus immuno-oncology (CT+IO) approaches according to different immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) subtypes.

Material & Methods:

We included in our meta-analysis six first-line randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the association of single-agent ICI with CT versus CT alone in ES-SCLC. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and risk ratios (RRs) for progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rates (ORR), 12-month duration of response rate (DORR), disease control rate (DCR), treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) and discontinuation rates (DRs) were obtained. Moreover, we performed indirect comparisons according to ICI subtypes, also among subgroups and landmark survival analyses.

Results:

Although no ORR benefit was observed, our results showed how CT+IO significantly improved DORR, resulting in improved PFS and OS with no differences in TRAEs; however, CT+IO led to a significant increase in DR. Interestingly, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) of 1, the use of cisplatin, and the absence of brain metastases seem to be associated with a survival gain using CT+IO in ES-SCLC. Indirect comparisons suggested a slight advantage in favour of programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) over anti-CTLA-4 agents in terms of efficacy with no additional safety concerns. No further differences were observed between PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors among subgroups and landmark survival analyses with benefit trends towards anti-PD-1 in terms of DORR and DR.

Conclusion:

While confirming a survival advantage of CT+IO in selected patients, these results suggested the association of PD-1 inhibitors with CT as a viable option for novel therapeutic approaches in the frontline management of ES-SCLC. Further trials evaluating anti-CTLA-4 agents should be carefully studied in biomarker-selected patients.
Enabling automated engineering’s project progress measurement by using data flow models and digital twins
Authors: Ebel Helena , Riedelsheimer Theresa , Stark Rainer
Published: July 2021

A significant challenge of managing successful engineering projects is to know their status at any time. This paper describes a concept of automated project progress measurement based on data flow models, digital twins, and machine learning (ML) algorithms. The approach integrates information from previous projects by considering historical data using ML algorithms and current unfinished artifacts to determine the degree of completion. The information required to measure the progress of engineering activities is extracted from engineering artifacts and subsequently analyzed and interpreted according to the project’s progress. Data flow models of the engineering process help understand the context of the analyzed artifacts. The use of digital twins makes it possible to connect plan data with actual data during the completion of the engineering project.
A New Thiazinedione Glycoside From the Fruits of Xanthium strumarium L.
Authors: Yen Pham H. , Hoang Nguyen H. , Trang Do T. , Huong Phan T.T. , Tai Bui H. , Nhiem Nguyen X. , Kiem Phan V.
Published: July 2021

A total of 4 thiazinedione derivatives including 1 new thiazinedione glycoside (1) and 3 known compounds (2-4) were isolated from the fruits of Xanthium strumarium L. Their chemical structures were determined as 7-hydroxymethyl-8,8-dimethyl-4,8-dihydrobenzo[1,4]-thiazine-3,5-dione-11- O-[ β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)- O-β-D-glucopyranoside] (1), 7-hydroxymethyl-8,8-dimethyl-4,8-dihydrobenzo[1,4]-thiazine-3,5-dione-11- O-[ β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→6)- O- β-D-glucopyranoside] (2), xanthiside (3), and xanthiazone (4) by extensive nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic and high-resolution electron spray ionization mass spectrum analysis and by comparison of the spectral data with those reported in the literature. Compounds 3 and 4 exhibited cytotoxic activity against lung carcinoma (SK-LU-1), human breast carcinoma (MCF-7), hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), and skin melanoma (SK-Mel-2) cell lines with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranging from 27.0 ± 1.1 to 43.2 ± 1.8 µM.