bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reviewing and Updating the 12 Principles of Animation
Authors: Thesen Thomas P
Published: December 2020

This article suggests a discussion on the reconfiguration of the 12 principles of animation and their necessary refinement for contemporary animation to address the growing complexity and expansion of the animation industry. The expansion of the 12 principles of animation into the various animation techniques requires a consideration of their development, which, in the 1930s and 1940s was sufficient for animation’s hand-drawn animation needs; since then, the principles have proven themselves accurate and incredibly helpful for subsequent decades. Nevertheless, this article indicates that a refinement of the principles is required to accommodate a broader range of animation techniques. The great advantage of the 12 principles of animation is their simplicity and logic; however, they do not apply in their entirety (as the full set of 12) to hand-drawn digital animation, stop-motion animation, experimental or digitally animated media. Therefore, this article explores the initial 12 principles with additions and variations suggested by artists and scholars over the last 30 years, and concludes with a reorganization and expansion of most of the principles’ content, a breakdown into sub points and an updated terminology to reconceptualize the 12 principles of animation for all animation techniques.
The variation of FiO2 with circuit type and peak inspiratory flow rate during non-invasive respiratory support using domiciliary ventilators and its significance during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Messer Ben , Tedd Hilary , Doris Tom , Mountain Andrew , Gatilogo Cris , Sovani Milind
Published: December 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased admissions with respiratory failure and there have been reports of oxygen failure and shortages of machines to deliver ventilation and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). Domiciliary ventilators which entrain room air have been widely used during the pandemic. Poor outcomes reported with non-invasive respiratory support using ventilators which lack an oxygen blender could be related to an unreliable Fraction of inspired O2 (FiO2). Additionally, with concerns about oxygen failure, the variety of ventilator circuits used as well as differing peak inspiratory flow rates (PIFR) could impact on the FiO2 delivered during therapy with domiciliary ventilators.

Methods

In a series of bench tests, we tested the effect of choice of circuit and different PIFR on the FiO2 achieved during simulation of ventilation and CPAP therapy using domiciliary ventilators.

Results

FiO2 was highly dependent upon the type of circuit used with circuits with an active exhalation valve achieving similar FiO2 at lower oxygen flow rates than circuits using an exhalation port. During CPAP therapy, high PIFR resulted in significantly lower FiO2 than low PIFR.

Conclusions

This study has implications for oxygen usage as well as delivery of non-invasive respiratory support during therapy with domiciliary ventilators when these are used during the second wave of COVID-19.
Reliability of clinical tests for prediction of occult scaphoid fractures and cost benefit analysis of a dedicated scaphoid pathway
Authors: Kodumuri Preetham , McDonough Andrew , Lyle Victoria , Naqui Zaf , Muir Lindsay
Published: December 2020

We reviewed the outcomes of our dedicated clinic for suspected scaphoid fractures. The primary outcome measure was to test the reliability of accurately diagnosing an occult scaphoid fracture with a combination of anatomical snuff box, scaphoid tubercle, longitudinal compression tenderness, ulnar deviation and the pinch test. Cost savings of the new patient pathway was our secondary outcome measure. Between December 2016 and March 2020, 922 patients were recruited at a mean of 12 days post-injury. Sixty-five per cent ( n = 602) with a low clinical suspicion were discharged and 35% ( n = 320) with a high clinical suspicion had same day MRI scan. Fifty-eight scaphoid fractures were diagnosed and treated with no nonunions reported. Anatomical snuff box tenderness was the most sensitive test (90%). A combination of five tests better excluded an occult fracture (80% accuracy). The dedicated scaphoid clinic pathway resulted in 350 fewer follow-up visits and an overall saving of £59,666.

Level of evidence: III
Two Houses: A new model for the GP consultation
Authors: Brunet Martin
Published: December 2020

The seemingly freestyle nature of the GP consultation poses a unique challenge for trainees starting out on a career in general practice. Unlike its hospital counterpart, there is no set format for the questions asked when taking a history, and so the structure of consultations is more of a craft to master than a process to be learnt. Consultation models are an attempt to provide a scaffold on which to build communication skills, and this article presents a new model for the consultation based on the metaphor of two houses which the doctor and patient explore together.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring for the Detection of Hypoglycemia in Patients With Diabetes of the Exocrine Pancreas
Authors: Shivaprasad Channabasappa , Gautham Kolla , Shah Kejal , Gupta Soumya , Palani Preethika , Anupam Biswas
Published: December 2020

Background:

Detailed evaluations of hypoglycemia and associated indices based on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) are limited in patients with diabetes of the exocrine pancreas. Our study sought to evaluate the frequency and pattern of hypoglycemic events and to investigate hypoglycemia-specific indices in this population.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study comprising 83 participants with diabetes of the exocrine pancreas. CGM and self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) were performed on all participants for a minimum period of 72 hours. The frequency and pattern of hypoglycemic events, as well as hypoglycemia-related indices, were evaluated.

Results:

Hypoglycemia was detected in 90.4% of patients using CGM and 38.5% of patients using SMBG. Nocturnal hypoglycemic events were more frequent (1.9 episodes/patient) and prolonged (142 minutes) compared with day-time events (1.1 episodes/patient; 82.8 minutes, P < 0.05). The mean low blood glucose index was 2.1, and glycemic risk assessment diabetes equation hypoglycemia was 9.1%. The mean time spent below (TSB) <70 mg/dL was 9.2%, and TSB <54 mg/dL was 3.7%. The mean area under curve (AUC) <70 mg/dL was 1.7 ± 2.5 mg/dL/hour and AUC <54 mg/dL was 0.6 ± 1.3 mg/dL/hour. All of the CGM-derived hypoglycemic indices were significantly more deranged at night compared with during the day ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Patients with diabetes of the exocrine pancreas have a high frequency of hypoglycemic episodes that are predominantly nocturnal. CGM is superior to SMBG in the detection of nocturnal and asymptomatic hypoglycemic episodes. CGM-derived hypoglycemic indices are beneficial in estimating the risk of hypoglycemia.
Impact of Real-Time CGM Data Sharing on Quality of Life in the Caregivers of Adults and Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Polonsky William H. , Fortmann Addie L.
Published: December 2020

Background:

To examine caregivers’ experiences with real-time continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM) data sharing and its impact on quality of life (QoL) and health outcomes.

Methods:

Parents of children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) ( N = 303) and spouses/partners of T1D adults ( N = 212) using the Dexcom G5 Mobile or G6 RT-CGM system and who were actively following their T1Ds’ RT-CGM data completed a survey examining their perceived value of data sharing, the impact of sharing on their own QoL and their child/partner’s health, and how they used RT-CGM data to support their T1Ds’ diabetes management. Regression analyses examined whether their actions were linked to reported changes in QoL and health outcomes.

Results:

Respondents were predominantly non-Hispanic White (91.1% parents; 88.7% partners), female (78.2% parents; 54.7% partners), and college-educated (65.3% parents; 61.8% partners). The majority reported that data sharing had enhanced hypoglycemic confidence (97.7% parents; 98.1% partners), overall well-being (60.4% parents; 63.2% partners), and sleep quality (78.0% parents; 61.3% partners). Of note, three positive caregiver actions were broadly consistent and significant predictors of QoL and health benefits for both parents and partners: celebrating success related to glycemic control, providing encouragement when glycemic control is challenging, and teamwork discussions about how the caregiver should respond to out-of-range values.

Conclusions:

RT-CGM data sharing was associated with a range of QoL and health benefits for caregivers. Degree of benefits was influenced by the collaborative actions taken by caregivers to support their child’s or partner’s diabetes management. To determine the most effective strategies for collaborative data sharing, longitudinal trials are needed.
Eczema herpeticum: A clinical diagnosis not to be missed
Authors: Wong Gabriel Hong Zhe , Aw Derrick Chen Wee
Published: December 2020

Eczema herpeticum is an uncommon complication of atopic dermatitis, but often has a typical recognisable appearance. This report serves to highlight this feature in a patient who was misdiagnosed initially with a bacterial skin infection and then with a severe cutaneous drug reaction.
Spatial ethics of affects
Authors: Tedeschi Miriam
Published: December 2020

This author’s reply responds to the commentaries by Collins, Conradson, Gilmartin, Jacobsen, and Shubin of my article, ‘On the Ethical Dimension of Irregular Migrants’ Lives: Affect, Becoming and Information’. What I suggest in this commentary and in the article has to be considered only as a starting point in developing an operationalisation of a Simondonian theory and vocabulary, which might provide further insights into the complexity of migration phenomena and beyond. In this response, in particular, I highlight how a spatial ethics of affects can be further developed to better comprehend migrants and their daily struggles.
Inter-reader agreement of 18F-FDG PET/CT for the quantification of carotid artery plaque inflammation
Authors: Johnsrud Kjersti , Seierstad Therese , Russell David , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth
Published: December 2020

Introduction

A significant proportion of ischemic strokes are caused by emboli from unstable atherosclerotic carotid artery plaques. Inflammation is a key feature of plaque instability. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with 2-deoxy-2-(18F)-fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) is a promising technique to quantify plaque inflammation, but a consensus on the methodology has not been established. High inter-reader agreement is essential if 18F-FDG PET/CT is to be used as a clinical tool for the assessment of unstable plaques and stroke risk.

Methods

We assessed the inter-reader variability of different methods for quantification of 18F-FDG uptake in 43 patients with carotid artery stenosis ≥70%. Two independent readers delineated the plaque and collected maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) from all axial PET slices containing the atherosclerotic plaque.

Results

Uptake values with and without background correction were calculated and intraclass correlation coefficients were highest for uncorrected uptake values (0.97–0.98) followed by those background corrected by subtraction (0.89–0.94) and lowest for those background corrected by division (0.74–0.79).

Conclusion

Quantification methods without background correction have the highest inter-reader agreement for 18F-FDG PET of carotid artery plaque inflammation. The use of the single highest uptake value (max SUVmax) from the plaque will facilitate the method’s clinical utility in stroke prevention.
Large airway diseases in pediatrics: a pictorial essay
Authors: Prountzos Spyridon , Papakonstantinou Olympia , Bizimi Vasiliki , Velonakis Georgios , Mazioti Argyro , Douros Konstantinos , Alexopoulou Efthymia
Published: December 2020

“Large airway diseases” is being used as an all-encompassing phrase to describe a broad spectrum of pathological entities, which involves the trachea, main, lobar, and segmental bronchi of up to 3 mm diameter. Imaging modalities such as radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging contribute to the identification and diagnosis of each entity. Knowledge of clinical information, normal cross-sectional anatomy, and imaging characteristics of large airway diseases is necessary for appropriate radiologic evaluation. This review provides information about congenital and acquired diseases of the large airways in the pediatric population.
Recontextualizing Quality Talk for an Eighth-Grade English Classroom in China
Authors: Wei Liwei , Murphy P. Karen , Wu Shenghui
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

Conducting meaningful interactions in the target language is essential for language learning. However, in many English language classrooms in China, it is rare that students are provided with such opportunities. In the current study, we presented and critically evaluated the implementation of a small-group discussion approach called Quality Talk (QT) in an eighth-grade English language classroom in China.

Design/Approach/Methods:

One eighth-grade English teacher and 82 eighth-grade students in a public middle school in Beijing participated in the study using a pretest-posttest, quasi-experimental design. Recordings of teacher coaching sessions and student discussions, researchers’ field notes, and participating teacher’s written reflections were used to identify successful practices and lessons learned with respect to the implementation of QT. Implications for future directions were also discussed.

Findings:

The results revealed that to successfully implement a discourse-intensive pedagogical approach in a large English language class, it is essential that (a) the materials used for discussion closely align with the school curriculum, (b) students are grouped heterogeneously and scaffolded to engage in discussions both in their native and target languages, and (c) student leadership be leveraged to facilitate discussion in each small group.

Originality/Value:

The present study delineated the details with respect to implementing a discourse-intensive pedagogical approach in an eighth-grade English classroom in China. We derived several key insights from recontextualizing QT in an English learning, large class context in China. These insights might hold the potential to improve the effectiveness of English teaching and learning in China.
Book review: Prabhakaran Paleri, Human Investment Management: Raise the Level by Capitalising Human
Authors: John Kishore Thomas , Raghavan Ajith Kumar Kamala
Published: December 2020

Prabhakaran Paleri, Human Investment Management: Raise the Level by Capitalising Human. Singapore: Springer Publishing, 2018, 318 pp., Ä129.99.
The Relationship Between Electronic Word-of-Mouth and Consumer Engagement: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Srivastava Mukta , Sivaramakrishnan Sreeram , Saini Gordhan K.
Published: December 2020

There has been a significant shift in the purchase of media by brands in the last decade. Brands have moved from spending money on the ever-present television and print media to the ubiquitous digital media of today. Consumers, however, are wary of marketing communications from companies and prefer reviews and opinions from friends or other consumers. In the new hyperconnected world, they are online reviews (i.e., electronic word-of-mouth or eWOM). Consequently, it has become imperative for marketers to measure and manage eWOM, and several companies today rely on social media command centres (SMCCs) for this. Companies use SMCCs to unearth fans and reveal influencers. The prevalent thinking is that by actively interacting with these influencers, eWOM can be positively impacted, which, in turn, may enhance the engagement of prospective customers with the brand.

The present study proposes a model for the relationship between eWOM and consumer engagement (CE). Additionally, it details a comprehensive classification framework of CE and reveals both the experts’ and consumers’ perspectives in this field by adopting a grounded theory–content analysis approach. The findings suggest that eWOM leads to CE.
Physeal Injuries of the Coracoid Process Are Closely Associated With Sports Activities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ogawa Kiyohisa , Inokuchi Wataru , Matsumura Noboru
Published: December 2020

Background:

Physeal injuries of the coracoid process are rare but may be increasing because of increased participation of youth in year-round sports.

Purpose:

To analyze reported physeal and apophyseal injuries of the coracoid process.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

PubMed and Scopus were searched using the terms scapula fracture and coracoid fracture. The inclusion criteria were English full-text articles describing coracoid fracture as well as articles that described patient characteristics and presented appropriate images. The exclusion criteria were descriptive cases without images as well as those lacking appropriate images. Citation tracking was conducted to find additional articles and full-text articles written in other languages. Articles were included if they reported physeal injury or judged to involve physeal injury based on the provided images.

Results:

Overall, 22 studies including 32 patients (29 males, 3 females) were identified. All but 2 patients were younger than 18 years of age, and 66% (21/32) had sustained injuries during or as a result of participation in sporting activities. The affected site was the physis at the base in 18 patients, an intra-articular fracture in the primary coracoid ossification center combined with the subcoracoid ossification center to form an intra-articular fracture in 5, the apophysis of the tip in 3, the apophysis of the angle in 5, and uncertain in 1. Eleven patients had concurrent acromioclavicular injuries. The injury was acute in 23 patients, chronic in 6, and traumatic nonunion in 3. Among 21 cases in which treatment methods and outcomes were described, 21% of the acute cases (4/19), and 2 of the 3 nonunions were surgically treated. Only 1 study used a widely accepted evaluation method. Follow-up periods ranged from 6 weeks to 2 years. Outcomes were generally excellent for nonoperative and operative treatment and without any serious complications.

Conclusion:

Coracoid physeal injuries occurred most commonly in patients aged 13 to 15 years of age (71%) and were usually sustained during or as a result of sports activities (66%). The most common injury site was the physis at its base. The cause of these injuries is probably severe or repeated traction of the attached muscles and ligaments. The majority of these injuries can be successfully treated nonoperatively.
The Mothers and Fathers of the Sociology of Race and Ethnicity: Learning from Them in Eight Lessons
Authors: Brunsma David L. , Embrick David G. , Ernstes Amy , Hayes Whitney , Nanney Megan , Zevallos Kevin
Published: December 2020

In this Editorial Feature Review, we reached out to senior race/racism and ethnicity scholars who have theoretically, epistemologically, and empirically contributed in major ways to what we now call the sociology of race and ethnicity. We wanted to pay our respects to these mothers and fathers of the discipline and the gifts that they have given our discipline over their careers. Our review was guided by a set of six key questions that cover their views of the field in the early parts of their careers, their experiences along the way, their views of what is going on now in the discipline, and their advice and suggestions to those currently practicing sociologies of race and ethnicity. We highlight eight major lessons from central scholars who have inspired generations of academics and whose leadership, mentorship, and scholarship, will never be forgotten.
Electrochemical H2O2 biosensor based on horseradish peroxidase encapsulated protein nanoparticles with reduced graphene oxide-modified gold electrode
Authors: Shin Jeong-Hyeop , Lee Myeong-Jun , Choi Jin-Ha , Song Ji-ae , Kim Tae-Hwan , Oh Byung-Keun
Published: December 2020

In this study, an electrochemical biosensor composed of a horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-encapsulated protein nanoparticles (HEPNP) was fabricated for the sensitive and selective detection of H2O2. The HEPNP has a three-dimensional structure that can contain a large amount of HRP; therefore, HEPNP can amplify the electrochemical signals necessary for the detection of H2O2. Furthermore, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was used to increase the efficiency of electron transfer from the HEPNP to an electrode, which could enhance the electrochemical signal. This biosensor showed a sensitive electrochemical performance for detection of H2O2 with signals in the range from 0.01–100 μM, and it could detect low concentrations up to 0.01 μM. Furthermore, this biosensor was operated against interferences from glucose, ascorbic acid, and uric acid. In addition, this fabricated H2O2 biosensor showed selective detection performance in human blood serum. Therefore, the proposed biosensor could promote the sensitive and selective detection of H2O2 in clinical applications.
Determinants of infant and young complementary feeding practices among children 6–23 months of age in urban Pakistan: a multicenter longitudinal study
Authors: Ariff Shabina , Saddiq Kamran , Khalid Javairia , Sikanderali Laila , Tariq Batha , Shaheen Fariha , Nawaz Gul , Habib Atif , Soofi Sajid Bashir
Published: December 2020

Background

Suboptimal feeding practices have a negative impact on children’s health and growth in the first 2 years of life and increase their risk of undernutrition, morbidity, and mortality. The aim of the study was to assess the factors that influence infant and young child feeding practices among urban mothers in a hospital setting at Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods

A longitudinal multi-center cohort study was conducted in four countries, MULTICENTER BODY COMPOSITION REFERENCE STUDY (MBCRS) to produce normal body composition reference data in healthy infants from 3 months to 24 months of age. Repeated anthropometric (weight, length and head circumference) and body composition measurements using “deuterium dilution method” along with 24-h dietary recall questionnaires were performed on 250 healthy term infants at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months of age. The 24-h dietary recall data from this study was used to assess the breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices in children aged 6–24 months.

Results

A total of 250 healthy infants were enrolled in the study. A majority of newborns (75.4%) were exclusively breastfed till 3 months of age; however, by 6 months of age, only 30.2% of infants were exclusively breastfed. Only 44.1% of children aged 6–24 months achieved minimum dietary diversity (MDD), 84.7% achieved minimum meal frequency (MMF), and 44.1% achieved a minimum acceptable diet (MAD). 71.4% achieved MDD and MAD and 100% achieved MMF at 24 months. The bivariate analysis found that breastfed children (OR 3.93, 95% CI 2.72–5.68), with employed mothers (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.06–2.27) who had graduated from secondary school (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.08–1.94) were more likely to meet minimum dietary diversity. The multivariable analysis showed that only the child’s age was significantly associated with MDD (pvalue< 0.0001), with the likelihood of meeting MDD increasing as the children aged; 9 months (OR 18.96, 95% CI 6.63–54.19), 12 months (OR 40.25, 95% CI 14.14–114.58), 18 months (OR 90.02, 95% CI 30.84–262.77) and 24 months (OR 82.14, 95% CI 27.23–247.83).

Conclusion

Our study revealed that Infant and young child feeding practices are significantly associated with maternal education, employment, and the child’s age. Therefore, it is essential that investments be made towards protective breastfeeding and complementary feeding policies and legislations, emphasis on female education and ensuring the availability of affordable nutritious and diverse foods.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease: classification and pathophysiology
Authors: Condliffe Robin
Published: December 2020

While the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension is not uncommon in adult congenital heart disease patients, other forms of pulmonary hypertension (PH) may also be present. A good understanding of PH classification is therefore vital for clinicians managing adult patients with congenital heart disease. This paper reviews both the general classification of PH and more detailed approaches to classifying pulmonary arterial hypertension in association with congenital heart disease.
Heart and lung transplantation in pulmonary arterial hypertension related to congenital heart disease: an unusual indication
Authors: Barracano Rosaria , Nashat Heba , Constantine Andrew , Dimopoulos Konstantinos
Published: December 2020

Background

Eisenmenger syndrome is a multisystem disorder, characterised by a significant cardiac defect, severe pulmonary hypertension and long-standing cyanosis. Despite the availability of pulmonary hypertension therapies and improved supportive care in specialist centres, Eisenmenger patients are still faced with significant morbidity and mortality.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 44-year-old woman with Eisenmenger syndrome secondary to a large secundum atrial septal defect. Her pulmonary vascular disease was treated with pulmonary vasodilators, but she experienced a progressive decline in exercise tolerance, increasing atrial arrhythmias, resulting in referral for transplantation. Her condition was complicated by significant recurrent haemoptysis in the context of extremely dilated pulmonary arteries and in-situ thrombosis, which prompted successful heart and lung transplantation. She made a slow recovery but remains well 3 years post-transplant.

Conclusions

Patients with Eisenmenger syndrome secondary to a pre-tricuspid lesion, such as an atrial septal defect have a natural history that differs to patients with post-tricuspid shunts; the disease tends to present later in life but is more aggressive, prompting early and aggressive medical intervention with pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies. This case illustrates that severe recurrent haemoptysis can be an indication for expediting transplantation in Eisenmenger syndrome patients.
Fontan failure and the role of pulmonary vasodilator therapy
Authors: Clift Paul
Published: December 2020

Background

The Fontan circulation is a palliative procedure for patients born with a single ventricle physiology. The Fontan circulation is associated with significant late morbidity commonly including atrial arrhythmias.

Case presentation

We report a case of an adult Fontan patient who developed protein losing enteropathy (PLE) following persistent atrial arrhythmias. Treatment with a pulmonary vasodilator, sildenafil, resolved the PLE.

Conclusions

The importance of a low pulmonary vascular resistance to maintain wellbeing in the Fontan patient is discussed, as is the role of pulmonary vasodilators.
Protocol for the development and validation of a risk prediction model for stillbirths from 35 weeks gestation in Australia
Authors: Sexton Jessica K. , Coory Michael , Kumar Sailesh , Smith Gordon , Gordon Adrienne , Chambers Georgina , Pereira Gavin , Raynes-Greenow Camille , Hilder Lisa , Middleton Philippa , Bowman Anneka , Lieske Scott N. , Warrilow Kara , Morris Jonathan , Ellwood David , Flenady Vicki
Published: December 2020

Background

Despite advances in the care of women and their babies in the past century, an estimated 1.7 million babies are born still each year throughout the world. A robust method to estimate a pregnant woman’s individualized risk of late-pregnancy stillbirth is needed to inform decision-making around the timing of birth to reduce the risk of stillbirth from 35 weeks of gestation in Australia, a high-resource setting.

Methods

This is a protocol for a cross-sectional study of all late-pregnancy births in Australia (2005–2015) from 35 weeks of gestation including 5188 stillbirths among 3.1 million births at an estimated rate of 1.7 stillbirths per 1000 births. A multivariable logistic regression model will be developed in line with currentTransparentReporting of a multivariable prediction model forIndividualPrognosis orDiagnosis(TRIPOD) guidelines to estimate the gestation-specific probability of stillbirth with prediction intervals. Candidate predictors were identified from systematic reviews and clinical consultation and will be described through univariable regression analysis. To generate a final model, elimination by backward stepwise multivariable logistic regression will be performed. The model will be internally validated using bootstrapping with 1000 repetitions and externally validated using a temporally unique dataset. Overall model performance will be assessed withR2, calibration, and discrimination. Calibration will be reported using a calibration plot with 95% confidence intervals (α= 0.05). Discrimination will be measured by theC-statistic and area underneath the receiver-operator curves. Clinical usefulness will be reported as positive and negative predictive values, and a decision curve analysis will be considered.

Discussion

A robust method to predict a pregnant woman’s individualized risk of late-pregnancy stillbirth is needed to inform timely, appropriate care to reduce stillbirth. Among existing prediction models designed for obstetric use, few have been subject to internal and external validation and many fail to meet recommended reporting standards. In developing a risk prediction model for late-gestation stillbirth with both providers and pregnant women in mind, we endeavor to develop a validated model for clinical use in Australia that meets current reporting standards.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Transplant-Ineligible Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: Findings From the Phase III MAIA Trial
Authors: Perrot Aurore , Facon Thierry , Plesner Torben , Usmani Saad Z. , Kumar Shaji , Bahlis Nizar J. , Hulin Cyrille , Orlowski Robert Z. , Nahi Hareth , Mollee Peter , Ramasamy Karthik , Roussel Murielle , Jaccard Arnaud , Delforge Michel , Karlin Lionel , Arnulf Bertrand , Chari Ajai , He Jianming , Ho Kai Fai , Van Rampelbergh Rian , Uhlar Clarissa M. , Wang Jianping , Kobos Rachel , Gries Katharine S. , Fastenau John , Weisel Katja
Published: December 2020

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of daratumumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (D-Rd) versus lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd) on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in the phase III MAIA study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

PROs were assessed on the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30-item and the EuroQol 5-dimensional descriptive system at baseline and every 3 months during treatment. By mixed-effects model, changes from baseline are presented as least squares means with 95% CIs.

RESULTS

A total of 737 transplant-ineligible (TIE) patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma were randomly assigned to D-Rd (n = 368) or Rd (n = 369). Compliance with PRO assessments was high at baseline (> 90%) through month 12 (> 78%) for both groups. European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30-item global health status scores improved from baseline in both groups and were consistently greater with D-Rd at all time points. A global health status benefit was achieved with D-Rd, regardless of age (< 75 and ≥ 75 years), baseline Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status score, or depth of response. D-Rd treatment resulted in significantly greater reduction in pain scores as early as cycle 3 ( P = .0007 v Rd); the magnitude of change was sustained through cycle 12. Reductions in pain with D-Rd were clinically meaningful in patients regardless of age, ECOG status, or depth of response. Similarly, PRO improvements were observed with D-Rd and Rd on the EuroQol 5-dimensional descriptive system visual analog scale score.

CONCLUSION

D-Rd compared with Rd was associated with faster and sustained clinically meaningful improvements in PROs, including pain, in transplant-ineligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma regardless of age, baseline ECOG status, or depth of treatment response.
Small Molecules for Vacuum-Processed Organic Photovoltaics: Past, Current Status, and Prospect
Authors: Venkateswararao Addanki , Wong Ken-Tsung
Published: December 2020

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs), a potential green technology that evolves to satisfy global energy demands, have shown great improvements recently. The success of OPVs relies on various endeavors, including new materials, protocols for morphology control, and device architectures. Vacuum deposition can produce OPVs that have precisely controlled multilayers and high stability suitable for commercialization. Molecular design plays a crucial role to fine tune the absorption, energy levels, and intermolecular interactions of organic materials for modulating the device performance. Researchers have extensively studied various combinations of judiciously selected or tailor-made donors (D) and acceptors (A) leading to small molecules with desired properties. In this review, vacuum-processable donor materials are collected and categorized into several sub-groups based on the connecting manner of D and A units. Molecular donors configured as D-A-A and A-D-A show better performance due to their long absorption and well-ordered molecular packing, which allow better light harvesting and charge transporting activities to obtain high short-circuit current density (JSC) and fill factor (FF). The progress of non-fullerene acceptors suitable for vacuum-deposited OPVs is also highlighted. Challenges and important prospects for future inventions of small molecules are discussed for better performance and commercialization of vacuum-processed OPVs.
The effects of the glycaemic control on the severity of the delirium in the advanced phase of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Martocchia Antonio , Scarienzi Marta , Prunas Pietro , Bentivegna Enrico , Cacciafesta Mauro , Martelletti Paolo , Sesti Giorgio
Published: December 2020

Background: Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and delirium are common in advanced phases of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods: Thirty-eight moderate-severe AD patients were enrolled (n=16 affected by type 2 diabetes). Each patient received a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) (including evaluation of BPSD and frailty), and a complete metabolic evaluation (including the measurement of the glycated haemoglobin, HbA1c).

Results: Both the hyper- and hypo-glycaemic extremes of the glycaemic spectrum worsened BPSD, but delirium was more susceptible to hypoglycaemic events. The severity of delirium was significantly related to cognitive function (r = -0.585, p<0.001) and frailty (r = +0.440, p<0.05).

Conclusions: The measurement of HbA1c was useful for evaluating the risk of delirium in relationship to glycaemic control and nutritional status.
Towards reimagined technical assistance: the current policy options and opportunities for change
Authors: Nastase Alexandra , Rajan Alok , French Ben , Bhattacharya Debarshi
Published: December 2020

Technical assistance has been at the heart of development assistance provided to country governments by donor agencies over the past several decades. The current debates on reimagining technical assistance focus on the existing challenges of the different types of technical assistance, and the (re)construction of an ideal model for delivering this type of support, with little discussion about the dilemmas involved in making day-to-day decisions and trade-offs in implementation. This article presents technical assistance as a policy option for governments and details the existing models of delivering technical assistance, as well as their limitations and the required enabling conditions. The models presented focus on the type of role for the technical advisers- as doers (performing government functions), partners (working with the government to perform a specific role) and facilitators (enabling and facilitating change programmes to address wicked problems). As part of the programmes, the team of technical advisers can play one or more roles. The authors also discuss how problem-solving or solution implementation can be the focus of a technical assistance programme or how large programmes combine these two approaches. The paper provides a practical account of the implications of the programme design that would ideally help governments and donors to design more effective technical assistance programmes.
Detection of Cell-Fusing Agent virus across ecologically diverse populations of Aedes aegypti on the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia
Authors: Jeffries Claire L. , White Mia , Wilson Louisia , Yakob Laith , Walker Thomas
Published: December 2020

Background. Outbreaks of mosquito-borne arboviral diseases including dengue virus (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), yellow fever virus (YFV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) have recently occurred in the Caribbean. The geographical range of the principal vectors responsible for transmission, Aedes (Ae.) aegypti and Ae. albopictus are increasing and greater mosquito surveillance is needed in the Caribbean given international tourism is so prominent. The island of Saint Lucia has seen outbreaks of DENV and CHIKV in the past five years but vector surveillance has been limited with the last studies dating back to the late 1970s. Natural disasters have changed the landscape of Saint Lucia and the island has gone through significant urbanisation.

Methods. In this study, we conducted an entomological survey of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus distribution across the island and analysed environmental parameters associated with the presence of these species in addition to screening for medically important arboviruses and other flaviviruses.

Results. Although we collected Ae. aegypti across a range of sites across the island, no Ae. albopictus were collected despite traps being placed in diverse ecological settings. The number of Ae. aegypti collected was significantly associated with higher elevation, and semi-urban settings yielded female mosquito counts per trap-day that were five-fold lower than urban settings. Screening for arboviruses revealed a high prevalence of cell-fusing agent virus (CFAV).

Conclusions. Outbreaks of arboviruses transmitted by Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus have a history of occurring in small tropical islands and Saint Lucia is particularly vulnerable given the limited resources available to undertake vector control and manage outbreaks. Surveillance strategies can identify risk areas for predicting future outbreaks. Further research is needed to determine the diversity of current mosquito species, investigate insect-specific viruses, as well as pathogenic arboviruses, and this should also be extended to the neighbouring smaller Caribbean islands.
Historical experience of the establishment of the Institute of professional selection and career guidance in the Ministry of internal Affairs of Russia
Authors: Klimov Andrey
Published: December 2020

The review of research on historical prerequisites for the establishment of the Institute of professional orientation in the Ministry of internal Affairs of Russia is presented. The historical experience of formation and development of the system of professional education of the Ministry of internal Affairs since its establishment is studied. The analysis of documents containing proposals for improving the professional selection and training of police personnel was carried out. Special attention is paid to the formation of the Institute of professional training in the Soviet era, when its evolution demonstrated a rapid character. The author comes to the conclusion that the development of the Institute of professional orientation in the Soviet period was hindered by a number of factors: ideological (vocational guidance was regarded as a bourgeois trend), financial (insufficient funding for professional training of police officers), pedagogical (insufficient qualifications of management and teaching staff), etc. Nevertheless, for a short period of Soviet power, it was possible to form a system of professional training of police officers, which made it possible in the mid-30s to increase the educational level of specialists accepted for service in the Ministry of internal Affairs. Military actions during the great Patriotic war had weakened the evolution of training, however, in the postwar years the state authorities have again turned to this issue, that has helped open up higher educational institutions of the USSR.
Legal Regulation of Ecotourism Infrastructure Development in the Region
Authors:   Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University, Bezuhla L.
Published: December 2020

The article analyzes and summarizes the current legislative and regulatory framework governing the development of rural green (ecological) tourism in Ukraine. It is established that in legislative and normative legal acts there are no formulations of the terms "ecotourism activity" and "ecotourism infrastructure". The general principles of functioning and development of ecotourism infrastructure as a component of the tourist system at the national and regional levels are not prescribed. Appropriate institutional conditions for the formation of ecotourism infrastructure in the regions have not been determined. It was found that most strategic programs in various areas of development of Dnipropetrovsk region do not mention the formation of ecotourism infrastructure as a key component of the regional system of tourism business, and did not develop a financial mechanism for its operation with non-traditional sources of investment and financial instruments, including public-private partnership. The Implementation Plan of the Development Strategy of Dnipropetrovsk region does not pay enough attention to the implementation of measures to promote the creation and intensive operation of ecotourism infrastructure. Proposals for improving the legal regulation of ecotourism infrastructure development in the region are provided.
European Research Space and Ukraine: Problems and Prospects for Integration
Authors:   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine, Ivanov S. , Antonyuk V. ,   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine
Published: December 2020

The article substantiates the need for Ukraine's European integration in the research sphere, outlines the regulatory and legal principles of The European integration processes. The content, main features, tasks and principles of the formation of the European research space are revealed, the parameters of the main programs of scientific and technical cooperation within the EU are laid out. Particular attention is paid to the coverage of the content of THE programs COST, EUREKA, HORI-2020, made an analysis of Ukraine's participation in these programs, existing achievements and problems. It is concluded that Ukraine does not use all opportunities for cooperation in the scientific and technological sphere with the EU. The content of the Roadmap for Ukraine's integration into the European research space developed by the Ministry of Education and Science has been assessed and its weaknesses have been revealed. The roadmap is an intra-industry document, has a limited scope, as it does not apply to research organizations of academic science and business. Also in the road map, the research sphere is considered in isolation from the innovation process. It is concluded that it does not provide European integration of the entire research system of Ukraine, so it needs to be improved. Proposals have been made to improve the institutional environment for Ukraine's effective integration into the European research space with the launch of the new Horizon Europe programme for 2021-2027. It is justified that the main coordinating role in this process should be played by the National Council of Ukraine for the Development of Science and Technology.
Assessment of the Impact of the Financial and Economic Crisis and the COVID-19 Pandemic on the National Labor Market
Authors:   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine, Shamileva L. , Khandii O. ,   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine
Published: December 2020

The impact of quarantine restrictions during the global COVID-19 pandemic and the financial and economic crisis on the national labor market was explored in the article. Possible changes in the number of people employed in various sectors of the Ukrainian economy were determined on the basis of estimates of expected production volumes and subject to maintaining the achieved level of labor productivity in previous years. The characteristic was given to the negative trends of declining demand for personnel by industry, construction, services. Metallurgical production, mechanical engineering, electricity production, textile clothing production, production of consumer durables were attributed to the main types of industrial activity, where there are very negative trends in production. The expected amount of layoffs and growth in the number of unemployed was calculated for the crisis period of 2020-2021. The reduction of staff occurred in more than a third of enterprises in construction and services, which is taken into account in the calculations. Three temporal stages of overcoming the economic recession and overcoming the economic consequences of quarantine, which determine the content, nature and depth of social risks in the system of social and labor relations and in the field of employment, were proposed. The sequence of social risks associated with declining business activity, quarantine restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the intensification of the digitalization of the economy and society has been determined. The growth of social insecurity and insufficiency of livelihoods is expected at the first stage, the risks of unemployment persist, the risks of non-compliance of labor supply with educational and professional needs of the labor market, increased labor migration, increased partial and informal employment increase in the second stage; social risks due to the intensity of digitalization increase in the third stage.
Analysis of the Main Trends in Social Protection of the Unemployed in Ukraine
Authors:   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Bolotina E. , Martinenko A. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Chalenko V. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy
Published: December 2020

The article analyzes the social protection of the unemployed in the context of the State Employment Service of Ukraine. An analysis of the dynamics of the unemployment rate. Based on the analysis of unemployment in Ukraine and possible scenarios for the development of this phenomenon, proposals were made to overcome the crisis in the field of employment and improve the situation on the labor market. The current state and the main problems that shape the unemployment rate in Ukraine are identified. Measures to reduce unemployment and optimize the employment structure are proposed. The main factors that shape such a macroeconomic problem as unemployment are identified. The main tendencies in the development of social and labor relations of Ukraine and the influence of globalization processes on the development of the labor market are established. In recent years, there has been a decrease in the level of economic activity and employment, the unemployment rate has risen. Prospects for further research in this area are to determine the dependence of the labor market on modern globalization and analysis of the characteristics of the influence of various factors on its formation and functioning.