bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic effect of fly ash on hydroxymethylated lignin‐containing flame retardant polypropylene: Flame retardancy and thermal stability
Authors: Song Yan , Zong Xu , Shan Xueying , Zhang Xin , Zou Guoxiang , Zhao Caixia , Li Jinchun
Published: November 2020

In this study, fly ash (FA) was used as a synergist to enhance the fire resistance of intumescent flame retardant polypropylene containing hydroxymethylated lignin. Effects of fly ash on flame retardancy and thermal stability properties of polypropylene (PP) composites were investigated using a limiting oxygen index (LOI) meter, UL‐94 vertical combustion tester, cone calorimeter, and thermogravimetric analyzer. The results showed that during combustion, incorporation of FA can effectively solve the dripping problem of the PP composites. Addition of 0.5% loading amount fly ash into the PP composite (0.5FA/IFR/PP) enhanced the flame retardancy significantly. Additionally, its LOI value increased from 28% to 33%, and UL‐94 vertical burning passed V‐0 grade from V‐2 rate. Notably, owing to addition of the fly ash, the peak of heat release rate of the pure PP decreased by 58.0%. Moreover, the release of CO2 and CO was largely suppressed, and higher char residue was obtained for 0.5FA/IFR/PP. Fire safety of the PP composites was significantly improved. From the analysis of charring residues, a possible flame retardant mechanism was proposed. That is, incorporation of fly ash increased the formation of a denser and intact char layer, which is important in inhibiting heat and flammable gases generated during combustion of underlined matrix.
Tacrolimus intrapatient variability in solid organ transplantation: A multiorgan perspective
Authors: Schumacher Lauren , Leino Abbie D. , Park Jeong M.
Published: November 2020

Background

Tacrolimus therapy in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients is challenging due to its narrow therapeutic window and pharmacokinetic variability both between patients and within a single patient. Intrapatient variability (IPV) of tacrolimus trough concentrations has become a novel marker of interest for predicting transplant outcomes. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the association of tacrolimus IPV with graft and patient outcomes and identify interventions to improve IPV in SOT recipients.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed using PubMed and Embase from database inception to September 20, 2020. Studies were eligible only if they evaluated an association between tacrolimus IPV and transplant outcomes. Both pediatric and adult studies were included. Measures of variability were limited to standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and time in therapeutic range.

Results

Forty‐four studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies were published between 2008 and 2020 and were observational in nature. Majority of data were published in adult kidney transplant recipients and identified an association with rejection, de novo donor specific antibody (dnDSA) formation, graft loss, and patient survival. Evaluation of IPV‐directed interventions was limited to small preliminary studies.

Conclusions

High tacrolimus IPV has been associated with poor outcomes including acute rejection, dnDSA formation, graft loss, and patient mortality in SOT recipients. Future research should prospectively explore IPV‐directed interventions to improve transplant outcomes.
Severe pulmonary alveolar proteinosis with respiratory failure treated by intrapulmonary percussive ventilation
Authors: Tashiro Takahiro , Tomita Yusuke , Inaba Megumi , Hayashi Kumiko , Hirata Naomi , Sakagami Takuro
Published: November 2020

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare disease characterized by abnormal accumulation of surfactant in the alveoli. Whole lung lavage (WLL) is the standard treatment for severe autoimmune PAP (aPAP); however, it is highly invasive. Intrapulmonary percussive ventilation (IPV) is a non‐invasive technique that delivers small bursts of high‐flow respiratory gas into the lung and mobilizes secretions. As IPV is beneficial for chronic respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis to reduce sputum, it was hypothesized that IPV will ameliorate aPAP by mobilizing and removing accumulated surfactant and foamy macrophages. Here, we report the case of a 52‐year‐old female with severe aPAP and progressive respiratory failure. She received intermittent IPV therapy for six months and thereby showed improvement in assessments of chest computed tomography (CT), lung function, and oxygenation. We suggest that IPV should be used as an alternative therapy for patients with aPAP and respiratory failure.
Open versus laparoscopic versus robotic gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumour resections: A multicentre cohort study
Authors: Solaini Leonardo , Cavaliere Davide , Fico Valeria , Milone Marco , De Pascale Stefano , Desiderio Jacopo , Vitali Giulia , Parisi Amilcare , Fumagalli Romario Uberto , De Palma Giovanni Domenico , D'Ugo Domenico , Ercolani Giorgio
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To present the outcomes of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) resection from five Italian centres, focussing the analysis on the comparison among open (OG), laparoscopic (LG) and robotic (RG) approaches.

Methods

All consecutive gastric wedge resections for GIST between 2009 and 2019 were included.

Results

In total 101 (OG = 14, LG = 63 and RG = 24) were included. No differences were seen in the preoperative characteristics among the groups. Robotic procedures were longer (RG 180 min vs. LG 100 vs. OG 110; p < 0.0001). Time‐to‐first flatus and length of hospital stay were significantly longer in the OG group. Complication rates were similar among the groups. A sub‐analysis on minimally invasive (RG = 19 vs. LG = 20) wedge resections and hand/robot‐sewn suture showed that operative time was longer in the RGs (p = 0.007). No conversions were recorded in the RG group versus three in the LG group (p = 0.231). Safety‐related factors were similar.

Conclusions

Gastric GIST can be safely treated with a minimally invasive approach which is also associated with improved postoperative outcomes.
Technological choices under uncertainty: Does organizational aspiration matter?
Authors: Dong John Qi
Published: November 2020

Research Summary

The behavioral theory of the firm suggests that organizations make strategic choices to retain or search for a technology based on performance feedback in comparison to organizational aspiration. Such technological choices become challenging as decision makers face uncertainty not only in technological search, but also from technology deterioration and market turbulence. While different organizational aspirations have been used in prior research, their performance and risk implications for technological choices are unclear. I advance theory by conducting a simulation study to systematically investigate the performance and risk of technological choices with different organizational aspirations, and explore their contingencies on technological and market uncertainty. The simulation results provide novel insights into the indispensable role of goal setting to ascertain organizational performance.

Managerial Summary

Goal setting has important impacts on the performance and risk of strategic decisions. While it is often believed that processing more information can help managers cope with uncertainty, this study shows that paying attention to both internal and external performance goals may be suboptimal for technological choices. Solely relying on an internal performance goal may even do more harm than good. A superior way of goal setting is to focus on external performance information from a reasonable reference group, such as firms with a similar performance or all industry peers rather than the best‐in‐class in the industry. This is more beneficial when technologies rapidly change and is less useful when customer preferences shift due to unpredictable shocks (e.g., the COVID‐19 pandemic).
Removal of lead ions in an aqueous solution by living and modified Aspergillus niger
Authors: Xu Hui , Hao Ruixia , Yang Shiqin , Xu Xiyang , Lu Anhuai , Li Yinhuang
Published: November 2020

An indigenous lead‐tolerant fungal strain was isolated from lead‐contaminated soil and identified as Aspergillus niger, via 18S rRNA gene sequencing. We determined the adsorption and accumulation of Pb(II) by living A. niger and the adsorption of Pb(II) via modified A. niger. This strain resisted and removed 96.21%–100% Pb(II) ranging from 2 to 8 mmol/L Pb(II). Pb‐containing particles were observed outside of the cell, and lead was detected inside the cell under scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The process of measuring the adsorption ability of modified fungal biomass, freeze‐dried, high‐temperature, and alkali‐treated fungal samples was analyzed; they adsorbed 25.02%, 8.76%, and 15.05% Pb(II) under 8 mmol/L Pb(II) in 43, 10, and 10 hr, respectively. These three types of modified A. niger fit the pseudo‐second‐order model equation well.

Practitioner points

Isolation and identification of effective Pb(II) removal strain from the soil around Dexing lead‐zinc mine.

The ability of living and modified Aspergillus niger to remove Pb(II) in an aqueous environment was evaluated.

Lead distributions inside and outside the cell were analyzed by SEM and TEM.

Kinetic models for modified biomass adsorbing Pb(II) were made for describing adsorption process.
Thermo-mechano-chemical modeling and computation of thermosetting polymers used in post-installed fastening systems in concrete structures
Authors: Abali Bilen Emek , Vorel Jan , Wan-Wendner Roman
Published: November 2020

As thermoset polymers find frequent implementation in engineering design, their application in structural engineering is rather limited. One key reason relies on the ongoing curing process in typical applications such as post-installed adhesive anchors, joints by structural elements or surface-mounted laminates glued by adhesive polymers. Mechanochemistry including curing and aging under thermal as well as mechanical loading causes a multiphysics problem to be discussed. For restricting the variety of material models based on empirical observations, we aim at a thermodynamically sound strategy for modeling thermosets. By providing a careful analysis and clearly identifying the assumptions and simplifications, we present the general framework for modeling and computational implementation of thermo-mechano-chemical processes by using open-source codes.
Noninvasive, longitudinal imaging-based analysis of body adipose tissue and water composition in a melanoma mouse model and in immune checkpoint inhibitor-treated metastatic melanoma patients
Authors: Thaiss Wolfgang M. , Gatidis Sergios , Sartorius Tina , Machann Jürgen , Peter Andreas , Eigentler Thomas K. , Nikolaou Konstantin , Pichler Bernd J. , Kneilling Manfred
Published: November 2020

Background

As cancer cachexia (CC) is associated with cancer progression, early identification would be beneficial. The aim of this study was to establish a workflow for automated MRI-based segmentation of visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SCAT) and lean tissue water (LTW) in a B16 melanoma animal model, monitor diseases progression and transfer the protocol to human melanoma patients for therapy assessment.

Methods

For in vivo monitoring of CC B16 melanoma-bearing and healthy mice underwent longitudinal three-point DIXON MRI (days 3, 12, 17 after subcutaneous tumor inoculation). In a prospective clinical study, 18 metastatic melanoma patients underwent MRI before, 2 and 12 weeks after onset of checkpoint inhibitor therapy (CIT; n = 16). We employed an in-house MATLAB script for automated whole-body segmentation for detection of VAT, SCAT and LTW.

Results

B16 mice exhibited a CC phenotype and developed a reduced VAT volume compared to baseline (B16 − 249.8 µl, − 25%; controls + 85.3 µl, + 10%, p = 0.003) and to healthy controls. LTW was increased in controls compared to melanoma mice. Five melanoma patients responded to CIT, 7 progressed, and 6 displayed a mixed response. Responding patients exhibited a very limited variability in VAT and SCAT in contrast to others. Interestingly, the LTW was decreased in CIT responding patients (− 3.02% ± 2.67%; p = 0.0034) but increased in patients with progressive disease (+ 1.97% ± 2.19%) and mixed response (+ 4.59% ± 3.71%).

Conclusion

MRI-based segmentation of fat and water contents adds essential additional information for monitoring the development of CC in mice and metastatic melanoma patients during CIT or other treatment approaches.
Pitfalls of the S-ICD therapy: experiences from a large tertiary centre
Authors: Willy Kevin , Reinke Florian , Rath Benjamin , Ellermann Christian , Wolfes Julian , Bögeholz Nils , Köbe Julia , Eckardt Lars , Frommeyer Gerrit
Published: November 2020

Aim

The subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) has evolved to a potential first option for many patients who have to be protected from sudden cardiac death. Many trials have underlined a similar performance regarding its effectiveness in relation to transvenous ICDs and have shown the expected benefits concerning infective endocarditis and lead failure. However, there have also been problems due to the peculiarities of the device, such as oversensing and myopotentials. In this study, we present patients from a large tertiary centre suffering from complications with an S-ICD and propose possible solutions.

Methods and results

All S-ICD patients who experienced complications related to the device (n = 40) of our large-scale single-centre S-ICD registry (n = 351 patients) were included in this study. Baseline characteristics, complications occurring and solutions to these problems were documented over a mean follow-up of 50 months. In most cases (n = 23), patients suffered from oversensing (18 cases with T wave or P wave oversensing, 5 due to myopotentials). Re-programming successfully prevented further oversensing episode in 13/23 patients. In 9 patients, generator or lead-related complications, mostly due to infectious reasons (5/9), occurred. Further problems consisted of ineffective shocks in one patient and need for antibradycardia stimulation in 2 patients and indication for CRT in 2 other patients. In total, the S-ICD had to be extracted in 10 patients. 7 of them received a tv-ICD subsequently, 3 patients refused re-implantation of any ICD. One other patient kept the ICD but had antitachycardic therapy deactivated due to inappropriate shocks for myopotential oversensing.

Conclusion

The S-ICD is a valuable option for many patients for the prevention of sudden cardiac death. Nonetheless, certain problems are immanent to the S-ICD (limited re-programming options, size of the generator) and should be addressed in future generations of the S-ICD.

Graphic abstract
Does implant removal of superior clavicle plate osteosynthesis affect the functional outcome: a prospective trial
Authors: Wurm Markus , Beirer Marc , Zyskowski Michael , Völk Christopher , Schwarz Arthur , Biberthaler Peter , Kirchhoff Chlodwig , Crönlein Moritz
Published: November 2020

Background

Elective implant removal (IR) accounts for up to 30% of all orthopaedic surgeries. While there is general acceptance about the need of implant removal for obvious reasons, such as infections or implant failure, little is known about the beneficial aspects in cases of minor reasons such as patients’ wish for IR. Therefore, we initiated this study to define patients’ benefit of elective implant removal following plate osteosynthesis of displaced clavicle fractures.

Patients and methods

Prospective evaluation of patients was conducted before implant removal and 6 weeks postoperative. Subjective and objective criteria included pain rating on a visual analogue scale (VAS) and active range of motion (ROM) pre- and 6 weeks postoperative. Functional scoring included Constant-Murley Score, DASH (Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score), MSQ (Munich Shoulder Questionnaire) and SPADI (Shoulder Pain and Disability Index).

Results

37 patients were prospectively enrolled in this study and implant removal was performed after 16 ± 6.1 months. No re-fractures nor other complications were detected during routine follow up. Functional outcome increased through all scores (Constant score 73.3 ± 14.6 preoperative to 87.4 ± 12.0 postoperative (p = 0.000), MSQ 85.0 ± 7.3 preoperative to 91.8 ± 9.0 postoperative (p = 0.005), DASH Score 7.4 ± 8.2 preoperative to 5.7 ± 9.5 postoperative (p = 0.414), SPADI 93.4 ± 6.6 preoperative to 94.0 ± 10.1 postoperative (p = 0.734).

Conclusions

Discomfort during daily activities or performing sports as well as limited range of motion were the main reasons for patients’ wish for implant removal. We found increased functional outcome parameters and decreased irritation after implant removal. Therefore we suggest implant removal in case of patients’ wish and completed fracture consolidation.

Trial registration

Trial registration no: NCT04343118, Retrospective registered: www.clinicaltrials.gov.
Effects of adverse social behaviour at the workplace on subsequent mental distress: a 3-year prospective study of the general working population in Norway
Authors: Sterud Tom , Hanvold Therese N.
Published: November 2020

Objective

We aimed to provide an integrated picture of the relationship between different facets of adverse social behaviour (ASB) at work and mental health problem.

Methods

Data were provided from a longitudinal nationwide study of the general population in Norway. Eligible respondents were in paid work during a reference week in 2013, or temporarily absent from such work, and was interviewed at 3-year follow-up (n = 3654, response at baseline/follow-up = 53.1%/71.8%). We investigated the prospective associations of self-reported exposure to ASBs, including threats/acts of violence, bullying, sexual harassment and workplace conflicts, with mental distress (the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist) at follow-up, by means of multiple logistic regression.

Results

In total, 6.6% (242 individuals) were classified with mental distress at follow-up. Work-related predictors were sexual harassment (OR = 1.64 07, 95% CI 1.03 − 2.61), bullying (OR = 2.07, 95% CI 1.19 − 3.60) and workplace conflicts (OR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.07 − 2.13). An elevated, but non-statistically significant association was observed for threats/acts of violence. No significant interactions were found between ASB and mental distress score at baseline. Overall there were few indications of substantial confounding related to age, sex, education level or occupation. After adjusting for these factors, the overall population attributable risk of mental distress attributable to any exposure to ASB was 11.3% (95%CI 0.6–22.3).

Conclusions

We observed robust associations between exposure to three out of four types of ASB and risk of mental distress. Taken together, the results underscore that adverse social behaviour at the workplace may have a substantial impact on the level of mental distress in the general working population.
Work stress on rise? Comparative analysis of trends in work stressors using the European working conditions survey
Authors: Rigó M. , Dragano N. , Wahrendorf M. , Siegrist J. , Lunau T.
Published: November 2020

Objective

The rapid transformation of labor markets has been accompanied by the belief of rising stress at work. However, empirical evidence on such trends based on reliable survey data is scarce. This study analyzes long-term trends in well-established measures of work stressors across Europe, as well as potential occupational differences.

Methods

We use repeated cross-sectional data of 15 European countries from waves 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015 of the European Working Conditions Surveys. We apply three-way multilevel regressions (with employees nested in country-years, which are in turn nested in countries) to analyze trends in work stressors measured according to the demand-control and effort-reward imbalance models. Trends by occupational groups are also assessed.

Results

Our findings suggest that work stress generally increased from 1995 to 2015, and that the increase was mostly driven by psychological demands. People working in lower-skilled occupations had generally higher levels of job strain and effort-reward imbalance, as well as they tend to have a steeper increase in job strain than people working in higher-skilled occupations. Most of the change occurred from 1995 to 2005.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that work stress has been on rise since 1995, specifically for people working in disadvantageous occupations. This directs the attention to the vulnerable position of the least skilled and also to the use of preventive measures to counteract some of the disadvantages experienced by this occupational group.
The Impact of Contextual, Maternal and Prenatal Factors on Receptive Language in a Chilean Longitudinal Birth Cohort
Authors: Morales María Francisca , Farkas Chamarrita , Aristotelous Eleanor , MacBeth Angus
Published: November 2020

A secondary analysis was conducted on longitudinal data collected from ELPI, a representative Chilean survey to model Chilean infant’s receptive language using contextual, maternal and prenatal factors. The sample for the current study comprised children aged between 36 and 48 months (n = 3921). The sample was re-assessed when children were aged 60–72 months (n = 3100). Linear regression analyses were conducted. At the first time point, all the predictors included were significant (living area, health system provision, maternal intelligence and education, adolescent pregnancy, maternal medical appointments during pregnancy, and presence of a significant other at childbirth), except for smoking during pregnancy. The model explained 13% of the variance. However, when timepoint one receptive language scores were included in the analyses for when children were aged 60–72 months, only two variables remained as significant predictors: previous receptive language scores and maternal education, explaining 21% of the variance. Findings and implications are discussed.
GPT-3: Its Nature, Scope, Limits, and Consequences
Authors: Floridi Luciano , Chiriatti Massimo
Published: November 2020

In this commentary, we discuss the nature of reversible and irreversible questions, that is, questions that may enable one to identify the nature of the source of their answers. We then introduce GPT-3, a third-generation, autoregressive language model that uses deep learning to produce human-like texts, and use the previous distinction to analyse it. We expand the analysis to present three tests based on mathematical, semantic (that is, the Turing Test), and ethical questions and show that GPT-3 is not designed to pass any of them. This is a reminder that GPT-3 does not do what it is not supposed to do, and that any interpretation of GPT-3 as the beginning of the emergence of a general form of artificial intelligence is merely uninformed science fiction. We conclude by outlining some of the significant consequences of the industrialisation of automatic and cheap production of good, semantic artefacts.
New work: New motivation? A comprehensive literature review on the impact of workplace technologies
Authors: Schmid Yvonne , Dowling Michael
Published: November 2020

The role of work and the characteristics of the workplace have changed greatly in recent decades. Today, new technologies enable an almost seamless interaction between machines and humans and allow teams in different countries and time zones to collaborate effectively. In this paper, we focus on the question of how job motivation is affected by technologies in the changing workplace. First, we review the state of research on job motivation and examine challenges in light of current technology trends and predicted developments for the workplace of the future. Job motivation is a well-documented construct connected to several company-relevant performance outcomes. However, our comprehensive literature review reveals a fragmented picture, with several disciplines addressing the topic from various points of view. We identify the four following schools of thought on workplace technologies and motivation: Technology as 1. background music, 2. hygiene factor, 3. motivator, and 4. influencer of mediators. While some scholars neglect technology in their considerations, others describe complex frameworks. This lack of unity reveals a further need for research. We suggest further research to develop holistic frameworks including moderators and to collect empirical data on the complex interactions between technology and job motivation.
Computerized virtual surgery based on computational fluid dynamics simulation for planning coronary revascularization with aortic root replacement in adult congenital heart disease: a case report
Authors: Hohri Yu , Itatani Keiichi , Yamazaki Sachiko , Yaku Hitoshi
Published: November 2020

A 38-year-old woman presented with exertional dyspnea and chest compression. She had undergone repair of congenital supravalvular aortic stenosis at 8 years of age. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed re-stenosis in the ascending aorta, bilateral coronary arterial aneurysm, and a highly thickened left ventricular wall. Release of stenosis was necessary to avoid left ventricular functional deterioration; however, it could cause demand–supply mismatch in coronary flow due to substantial left ventricular hypertrophy. Sufficient statistical evidence was not available in this situation; therefore, computerized virtual surgery based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was performed to predict the postoperative hemodynamics. Consequently, root replacement with in situ Carrel patch coronary reconstruction was considered a better option than coronary artery graft bypass in the left-side coronary flow supply. The patient underwent root replacement with in situ Carrel patch coronary reconstruction as planned based on CFD without any complication and was discharged 15 days postoperatively.
Comprehensive review and classification of game analytics
Authors: Su Yanhui , Backlund Per , Engström Henrik
Published: November 2020

As a business model, the essence of games is to provide a service to satisfy the player experience. From a business perspective, development in the game industry has led to the application of Business Intelligence (BI) becoming more and more extensive. However, related research lacks systematic examination and precise classification. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review of BI used in the game industry, focusing primarily on game analytics. This research mainly studies and discusses five aspects. First, we explore game analytics aspects in the available literature based on the traditional game value chain. Second, we find out the main purposes of using analytics in the game industry. Third, we present the problems or challenges in the game area, which can be addressed by using game analytics. Fourth, we also list different algorithms that have been used in game analytics for prediction. Finally, we summarize the research areas that have already been covered in literature but need further development. Based on the categories established after the mapping and the review findings, we also discuss the limitations of game analytics and propose potential research points for future research.
Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): a challenging cytological diagnosis with hybrid PET/MRI staging and follow-up
Authors: Verde Francesco , Vigliar Elena , Romeo Valeria , Campanino Maria Raffaela , Accurso Antonello , Canta Luigi , Garbino Nunzia , Basso Luca , Cavaliere Carlo , Nicolai Emanuele , Imbriaco Massimo
Published: November 2020

We report a case of a 55-year-old woman with left breast cosmetic augmentation performed 5 years earlier, showing at ultrasound a left small amount of peri-implant effusion suspicious for an anaplastic large cell lymphoma localization. The final diagnosis was obtained by cytology using a small amount of fluid (6 ml). Subsequently, hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MRI was used for pre-operative staging and follow-up. An appropriate management of BIA-ALCL could be obtained even in cases of a small amount of peri-implant effusion, using a comprehensive approach of clinical and imaging evaluation, including PET/MRI as useful and innovative staging imaging technique.
Some aggregation operators of neutrosophic Z-numbers and their multicriteria decision making method
Authors: Du Shigui , Ye Jun , Yong Rui , Zhang Fangwei
Published: November 2020

As the generalization of the classical fuzzy number, the concept of Z-number introduced by Zadeh indicates more ability to depict the human knowledge and judgments of both restraint and reliability as an order pair of fuzzy numbers. In indeterminacy and inconsistent environment, a neutrosophic set is described by the truth, falsity, and indeterminacy degrees, but they lack measures related to reliability. To describe the hybrid information of combining the truth, falsity and indeterminacy degrees with their corresponding reliability degrees, this paper first proposes the concept of a neutrosophic Z-number (NZN) set, which is a new framework of neutrosophic values combined with the neutrosophic measures of reliability, as the generalization of the Z-number and the neutrosophic set. Then, we define the operations of neutrosophic Z-numbers (NZNs) and a score function for ranking NZNs. Next, we present NZN weighted arithmetic averaging (NZNWAA) and NZN weighted geometric averaging (NZNWGA) operators to aggregate NZN information and investigate their properties. Regarding the NZNWAA and NZNWGA operators and the score function, a multicriteria decision making (MDM) approach is developed in the NZN environment. Finally, an illustrative example about the selection problem of business partners is given to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the developed MDM approach in NZN setting.
Artificial intelligence in recommender systems
Authors: Zhang Qian , Lu Jie , Jin Yaochu
Published: November 2020

Recommender systems provide personalized service support to users by learning their previous behaviors and predicting their current preferences for particular products. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly computational intelligence and machine learning methods and algorithms, has been naturally applied in the development of recommender systems to improve prediction accuracy and solve data sparsity and cold start problems. This position paper systematically discusses the basic methodologies and prevailing techniques in recommender systems and how AI can effectively improve the technological development and application of recommender systems. The paper not only reviews cutting-edge theoretical and practical contributions, but also identifies current research issues and indicates new research directions. It carefully surveys various issues related to recommender systems that use AI, and also reviews the improvements made to these systems through the use of such AI approaches as fuzzy techniques, transfer learning, genetic algorithms, evolutionary algorithms, neural networks and deep learning, and active learning. The observations in this paper will directly support researchers and professionals to better understand current developments and new directions in the field of recommender systems using AI.
Endometriose, aktuelle medikamentöse Therapieempfehlungen mit Schwerpunkt auf der hormonellen Therapie mit Gestagenen
Authors: Chemogo-Gbellu Daniela
Published: November 2020

Unter Endometriose versteht man das Auftreten von endometrialen Zellen und Zellverbänden außerhalb des Cavum uteri, welche dem hormonellen Zyklus unterliegen und zu rezidivierenden Beschwerden führen können. Die Inzidenz wird je nach Quelle mit 2–15 % der Frauen im reproduktionsfähigen Alter angegeben. Schmerzen und Fertilitätseinschränkung sind die führenden Symptome. Unter Kinderwunschpatientinnen liegt die Inzidenz bei 20–48 %.
Associations of sleep quality, quantity and nutrition in oldest-old men The Helsinki Businessmen Study (HBS)
Authors: Jyväkorpi Satu K. , Urtamo Annele , Kivimäki Mika , Strandberg Timo E.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Sleep quality and quantity often decline as people age, which may negatively impact health. We examined how nutrition is associated with self-reported sleep quality and quantity in oldest-old community-dwelling men.

Methods

In this cross-sectional analysis of the Helsinki Businessmen Study (HBS), a random sample of 130 surviving participants underwent a clinical examination in 2017–2018. Food and nutrient intakes were retrieved from 3-day food diaries in 126 men, and sleep quality and quantity were determined with a questionnaire. Nutritional status was assessed using Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA-SF), General Health and Vitality were measured with RAND-36/SF-36 health-related quality of life instrument, and albumin and creatinine levels were analyzed from fasting serum samples.

Results

Mean age of the survivors was 87 years (range 83–99). Self-reported sleep quality and quantity were highly correlated (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.693). Nutritional status (MNA-SF) (p = 0.006, η2 = 0.076), vegetable intake (p = 0.030. η2 = 0.041) and vitality (p = 0.008, η2 = 0.101) were associated with better sleep quality and fish (p = 0.028, η2 = 0.051) intake was associated with longer sleep duration. This association remained after adjusting for age, sleep quality, carbohydrate energy %, and albumin levels.

Conclusion

Healthy nutrition may be an important contributor to sleep hygiene in oldest-old men.
Peacebuilding in times of COVID-19: risk-adapted strategies of cooperation and development projects
Authors: Eufemia Luca , Lozano Camilo , Rodriguez Tatiana , Del Rio Martha , Morales-Muñoz Héctor , Bonatti Michelle , Sieber Stefan , Löhr Katharina
Published: November 2020

National and international cooperation and development projects (CDP) are fundamental for peacebuilding. However, unforeseen global crises, like COVID-19, can endanger such projects, requiring rapid adaption. In Colombia, the coronavirus outbreak threatens to slow the implementation of peace-related projects, while simultaneously violence over control and ownership of land increases. Although the mid- to long-term consequences for peacebuilding are unknown, exploring risk-adapted strategies of national and international CDP can help identify crucial aspects for future processes and implementations. This study explores the key challenges and coping strategies of implementing agencies and stakeholders to COVID-19, thus helping to derive and improve risk-adapted strategies. After reviewing academic and grey literature, and implementing a semi-structured survey, peacebuilding risked-adapted strategies to COVID-19 are explored with respect to conflict-affected and vulnerable areas of Colombia. Findings show that increasing complexity rooted in top down governmental measures, the rise of new local power relations (e.g. armed groups, illicit activities), and social alienation are negatively affecting peacebuilding in Colombia. Future CDP risk adapted strategies should build on local interests and needs through public-private and environmental cooperation.
A dichotomy of sets via typical differentiability
Authors: Dymond Michael , Maleva Olga
Published: November 2020

We obtain a criterion for an analytic subset of a Euclidean space to contain points of differentiability of a typical Lipschitz function: namely, that it cannot be covered by countably many sets, each of which is closed and purely unrectifiable (has a zero-length intersection with every

$C^1$

curve). Surprisingly, we establish that any set failing this criterion witnesses the opposite extreme of typical behaviour: in any such coverable set, a typical Lipschitz function is everywhere severely non-differentiable.
ON THE DIMENSION OF GROUPS THAT SATISFY CERTAIN CONDITIONS ON THEIR FINITE SUBGROUPS
Authors: SÁNCHEZ SALDAÑA LUIS JORGE
Published: November 2020

We say a groupGsatisfies properties (M) and (NM) if every nontrivial finite subgroup ofGis contained in a unique maximal finite subgroup, and every nontrivial finite maximal subgroup is self-normalizing. We prove that the Bredon cohomological dimension and the virtual cohomological dimension coincide for groups that admit a cocompact model forEGand satisfy properties (M) and (NM). Among the examples of groups satisfying these hypothesis are cocompact and arithmetic Fuchsian groups, one-relator groups, the Hilbert modular group, and 3-manifold groups.
TEMPORALITIES, RITUAL, AND DRINKING IN MASS OBSERVATION'S WORKTOWN
Authors: TAYLOR JENNIE , PRINCE SIMON
Published: November 2020

In Bolton's pubs at the end of the 1930s, the research organization Mass Observation pursued answers to big abstract questions about time by studying small concrete actions. Drawing on field notes, draft manuscripts, and published works, this article sets out the different understandings and experiences of time documented by the team of investigators. Outside the ‘time-clock factory-whistle dimension of living’ and inside ‘pub-time’, individuals bought drinks for their companions, drank at the same pace, and engaged with everyone around them on an equal footing. Mass Observation presented such behaviours as proof that the pub fostered a socially harmonious, egalitarian community from a pre-industrial age. However, this article shows that the pub study's archive contains material that goes against the published findings. Observers turned in reports about authoritarian conduct, hierarchical power structures, and the intrusion of contemporary politics. Blurring the research subject and object, it was sometimes the investigators themselves who broke the spell of the pub. These moments of tension, confusion, and contradiction offer insights into the observers’ own perspectives on modern temporalities and subjective experiences of time. All the people in the pubs were caught up in a state of flux.
Visual methods and the study of Balinese art collections
Authors: Vickers Adrian
Published: November 2020

Digital tools offer new possibilities for visual research, and such tools can provide methods for revitalising our understanding of the field of culture. Despite the importance of the visual as an element of culture, it is only in the last decade that the visual as a phenomenon of seeing has been a major feature of theoretical and methodological approaches to Southeast Asia. The long traditions of art history, anthropology and related fields in Southeast Asian studies have hitherto been focused on empirical documentation. In studying one aspect of the visual archive created by the polymath Gregory Bateson during his partnership with Margaret Mead, I will draw on methodologies that have their origins in Bateson's writings. These methodologies find fresh conditions in digital environments, in ways that allow us to bring into play a variety of theories of the visible.
A Philippine ‘coolie trade’: Trade and exploitation of Chinese labour in Spanish colonial Philippines, 1850–98
Authors: Ginés-Blasi Mònica
Published: November 2020

Chinese immigration to the Philippines has traditionally been studied in relation to commercial activities. But between 1850 and 1898, there was an unparalleled influx of Chinese labourers, which raised the number of Chinese residents to 100,000. This influx was fuelled by the abundant profits obtained by Chinese brokers and foremen, Spanish institutions and authorities in Manila, consuls in China, and Spanish and British ship captains, all of whom extracted excessive fees and taxes from the labourers. The trade in and the exploitation of Chinese labourers in the Philippines have yet to be thoroughly researched. This article shows that the import and abuse of Chinese labourers in and to the Philippines continued throughout the second half of the nineteenth century, and that, despite some anti-Chinese Spanish colonial rhetoric, a wide range of actors and institutions, both in China and in the Philippines, took advantage of this unprecedented inflow of immigrants.
Welcome toThe Jungle: Performing Borders and Belonging in Contemporary British Migration Theatre
Authors: WELTON EMMA
Published: November 2020

This article explores the political and ethical implications of performance representing the ongoing realities of migration in contemporary Britain. Using Good Chance Theatre'sThe Jungle(2018) as its point of departure, the article problematizes the use of dramaturgies of proximity to confect simplistic notions of empathy as tantamount to political change. In a Brechtian vein, the article argues for modes of distanciation to foster critical engagement among audiences at the site of contemporary performance on migration. Focusing upon the production's West End transfer, its use of immersive strategies and its use of a comedic model to address ongoing issues in migration, this article finds that such strategies are not as politically transgressive as marketing and critical reception often contend them to be, with the onus of responsibility placed solely upon the individual spectator.
Staging Tagore Beyond the Spectres of Authority: Suman Mukhopadhyay's Falguni: Suchana (2001)
Authors: KONAR RAJDEEP
Published: November 2020

This article intends to critique the spectres of authority which haunt theatrical interpretations of Rabindranath Tagore's (1861–1941) plays. As Tagore is a cultural icon, since even before his demise his plays have been made sites for exercising cultural and institutional authority. A consequent uneasy anticipation of denunciation or censorship has essentially deterred theatre directors from creatively interpreting and staging his plays. In terms of discourse also, there has been a spiral of silence regarding the presence of such authority. It is only since the beginning of the twenty-first century, after the termination of the copyright to Tagore's works, that the situation has lightened considerably. This article deals with the above phenomenon in two segments. While the second segment provides a close analysis of one of the first productions to radically subvert the status quo regarding the creative staging of Tagore's plays, the first provides a contextual, historical build-up to that moment. The article argues that in dramatic theatre authority is often validated on the basis of an ‘archival logic’ of thinking which requires systematic dismantling.
Archival Practices of Suspicion: Remains in Secret Reports, Self-Documentation and Oral Histories
Authors: DERES KORNÉLIA
Published: November 2020

The paper focuses on the methodological challenges of handling the material remains of banned theatre practices in Cold War Hungary. Focusing on the case of the collective Apartment Theatre (1972–6), it examines the relation of material remains, originally created by or for the socialist authorities in order to prove the danger caused by the collective, and the materials which were created by the group members as a countermovement to preserve their own memories and narratives. Consequently, archival practices of care as well as archival practices of suspicion together contribute to situating the collective in Hungarian and European cultural memory and theatre history.
Remains of a Past Production: A Short Film,Theatre(1957)
Authors: KORSBERG HANNA
Published: November 2020

This paper discusses the use of a documentary film as source material for theatre history. The central case study analysesTheatre, directed by Jack Witikka in 1957. This film presents the making of Samuel Beckett'sWaiting for Godotat the Finnish National Theatre, which premiered on 5 October 1954. The paper follows the process of an event turning into an object, and at the same time I explore how the film preserves and traces material conditions of the theatre production: the physicality of the actors, their moving bodies, their position on the stage and the sound of their voices.
Feminist Exploration of Material Objects in Anuradha Kapur's Jeevit Ya Mrit
Authors: JAIN INDU
Published: November 2020

This article focuses on the Indian feminist director Anuradha Kapur's unique approach to theatrical objects and practices as stimulating gendered behavior. Analysing her play Jeevit Ya Mrit (Alive or Dead), I show Kapur's deliberate emphasis on the surplus of material objects and the devising of props as related to the figuration of the women actors onstage wherein the attempt is to focus on the mise en scène rather than the character being portrayed. With a discerning and a percipient eye for detail and an assemblage of objects onstage, the paper will focus on how Kapur deals with the mediality of the event, the format in which it is structured for the performance and the effect on the audience.
Study of normal tissue dosimetric benefit using asymmetric margin-based biological fuzzy decision making: volumetric modulated arc therapy of prostate cancer
Authors: Patnaikuni Santosh Kumar , Saini Sapan Mohan , Chandola Rakesh Mohan , Chandrakar Pradeep , Jain Rajeev , Chaudhary Vivek
Published: November 2020

Aim:

Radiation therapy has historically used margins for target volume to ensure dosimetric planning criteria. The size of margin for a given treatment site is still uncertain particularly for moving targets along with set-up variations leading to a fuzziness of target volume. In this study, we have estimated the dosimetric benefit of normal structures using biological-based optimal margins. The treatment margins are derived by knowledge-based fuzzy logic technique which is considering the radiotherapy uncertainties in treatment planning.

Materials and methods:

All treatment plans were performed using stepped increments of asymmetric margins to estimate prostate radiobiological indices such as tumour control probability (TCP) and normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). An absolute NTCP of 5% was considered to be the maximum acceptable value while TCP of 85% was considered to be the minimal acceptable limit for each volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plan of localised prostate cancer radiotherapy. Results were used to formulate rules and membership functions for Mamdani-type fuzzy inference system (FIS). In implementing the rules for the fuzzy system for ΔNTCP values above 10%, the PTV margin was not permitted to exceed 5 mm to avoid rectal complications due to margin selection. The new margins were applied in VMAT planning of prostate cancer for standard displacement errors. The dosimetric results of normal tissue predictors were estimated such as organ mean doses, rectum V60 (volume receiving 60 Gy), bladder V65 (volume receiving 65 Gy) and other clinically significant dose–volume indicators and compared with VMAT plans using current margin formulations.

Results:

Dosimetric results compared well to the results obtained by current techniques. Good agreement was obtained between proposed fuzzy model margins and currently used margins in lower error magnitude, but significant results were observed at higher error magnitude when organ toxicity concerned without compromising the target volumes.

Findings:

The new margins may be helpful to estimate possible outcomes of normal tissue complications and thus may improve complication free survival particularly when organ motion errors are inevitable, case by case.