bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can we contribute to the diagnosis of diabetes and regulation of blood glucose by increasing the urologists’ awareness of glucosuria?
Authors: Erdoğan Abdullah , Bozkurt Aliseydi , altun Abdulsemet , Turan Abdullah
Published: May 2020

Aims:

Diabetes mellitus is a progressive, chronic, systemic, metabolic disease that must be managed effectively. Its prevalence is increasing rapidly. We investigated whether urologists’ awareness and recognition of glucosuria contributed to the diagnosis of diabetes and regulation of blood glucose.

Methods:

A total of 39,053 patients were retrospectively evaluated between January 2018 and February 2019. Of them, 16,211 had undergone urinalysis for varied reasons. Glucosuria was semi-quantitatively measured as (+), (++), (+++), and (++++). Patients were assessed in terms of whether they had been referred to endocrinology or internal medicine departments within the 15 days and the presence/absence of a previous or new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus by measuring blood glucose and HgbA1c levels.

Results:

Glucosuria was detected in 665 patients (4.1%), of whom 495 were included in the study. 417 (84.2%) had been previously diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, and 56 (11.3%) newly received a diabetes mellitus diagnosis. Blood glucose and HbA1c values were normal in 22 (4.4%) patients with glucosuria. HgbA1c value was determined as 7 or above in 381 (91.3%) of 417 cases with a previous diabetes mellitus diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Referring all patients detected to have glucosuria in the spot urine test at any time regardless of fasting/non-fasting to the relevant departments can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes mellitus disease.
Rape, Child Sexual Abuse, and Mental Health in a Brazilian National Sample
Authors: Diehl Alessandra , Molina de Souza Roberto , Madruga Clarice Sandi , Laranjeira Ronaldo , Wagstaff Christopher , Pillon Sandra Cristina
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of self-reported rape and its associations with other forms of violence and mental health outcomes. The Brazilian National Alcohol and Drugs Survey is a probabilistic household survey that collected data from 4,283 Brazilians aged 14 years and older in 2012. The prevalence of rape was 2.3% ( n = 107) and the majority ( n = 81) of rapes were reported by women. Female gender increased the chances of rape (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.7, 4.3]). Adults aged 35 to 46 years (AOR = 2.0, 95% CI = [1.2, 4.4]) and being without religion (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI = [1.3, 3.8]) were also associated with increased chances of rape. Participants with a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) were 16.5 times (95% CI = [10.1, 26.7]) more likely to report having been raped. Other outcomes related to been raped were history of child prostitution (AOR = 5.1, 95% CI = [2.1, 13.4]) and witnesses of violence during childhood (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = [1.5, 3.8]). People without social support (AOR≅3, 95% CI = [1.8, 4.3]), victims of multiple recent negative events (AOR = 3.7, 95% CI = [2.4, 5.8]), people with depression (AOR = 2.6, 95% CI = [1.7, 3.9]), history of suicidal ideation (AOR = 3.8, 95% CI = [2.0, 7.1]), and history of suicide attempts (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI = [1.1, 4.3]) are other outcomes related to having been raped. In this sample, rape was related to gender and to other forms of violence and victimization. Self-reports of rape appear to underestimate the true prevalence as the figures obtained from the survey were low. Other methods should be used to investigate this issue.
Resilience Mediates the Relationship Between PTSD Symptoms and Disordered Eating in College Women Who Have Experienced Sexual Victimization
Authors: Fergerson Ava K. , Brausch Amy M.
Published: May 2020

It is widely known that sexual assault disproportionately affects women, and college-aged women are particularly at risk. Sexual assault can occur at any age and may have a varying range of emotional consequences for survivors, including pathological coping mechanisms such as disordered eating behaviors. This study examined the mediating effect of resilience on the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and disordered eating behavior in a sample of women who reported experiencing sexual assault in adulthood. The sample included 312 undergraduate women who identified as majority White (81.4%) and heterosexual (77.9%). Participants completed measures assessing history of sexual experiences, PTSD symptoms, disordered eating behavior, and resilience. Only those who reported experiences of sexual victimization since age 14+ were included in analyses. Results confirmed the hypothesis, as resilience significantly mediated the relationship between PTSD symptoms and disordered eating behavior in a sample of women with a history of sexual victimization. These results highlight the importance of resilience as a mitigating factor in recovery from sexual trauma. Other research indicates that resilience may have emotion-regulatory benefits that mitigate the development of disordered eating behavior. However, the specific functionality of resilience as a protective factor after sexual victimization is unclear. Further research should focus on ways to foster resilience in a clinical setting for those with a history of sexual victimization. Limitations of this study include underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities, as well as use of entirely self-report measures.
Freedom of Movement and Adolescent Sexual Violence in India
Authors: Raj Anita , Singh Abhishek , Silverman Jay G. , Bhan Nandita , Barker Kathryn M. , McDougal Lotus
Published: May 2020

This study assesses associations between freedom of movement and sexual violence, both in marriage and outside of marriage, among a representative sample of adolescents in India. We analyzed data from girls aged 15 to 19 years ( n = 9,593) taken from India’s nationally representative National Family Health Survey 2015–2016. We defined freedom of movement using three items on whether girls could go unaccompanied to specified locations; we summated responses and categorized them as restricted, or unrestricted. We used multivariable regression to assess associations between restricted movement and nonmarital violence, and with marital sexual violence among ever-married girls. Results show that only 2% of girls reported nonmarital sexual violence, among married and unmarried girls; 6% of married girls reported marital sexual violence. Most girls (78%) reported some restriction in movement. Restricted movement was negatively associated with nonmarital sexual violence (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.31, 0.87], p = .01) but positively associated with marital sexual violence (AOR = 3.87, 95% CI = [1.82, 8.25], p < .001). Further analyses highlight that the observed association with nonmarital sexual violence was specific to urban and not rural girls. These findings reveal that approximately one in 30 adolescent girls in India has been a victim of sexual violence. Restricted movement is associated with lower risk for nonmarital sexual violence for urban adolescent girls, possibly due to lower exposure opportunity. Married girls with restricted movement have higher odds of marital sexual violence, possibly because these are both forms of control used by abusive husbands. Freedom of movement is a human right that should not place girls at greater risk for nonmarital violence or be used as a means of control by abusive spouses. Social change is needed to secure girls’ safety in India.
Nontuberculous mycobacteria infections of peritoneal dialysis patients: A multicenter study
Authors: Bnaya Alon , Wiener-Well Yonit , Soetendorp Hila , Einbinder Yael , Paitan Yossi , Kunin Margarita , Tanasiychuk Tatiana , Kushnir Daniel , Kruzel-Davila Etty , Gershkovitz Regina , Rosenberg Roza , Bloch Aharon , Doviner Victoria , Assous Marc V , Peretz Orly , Shavit Linda , Ben-Chetrit Eli
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections pose a diagnostic challenge in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. In this study, we sought to identify findings that are suggestive of NTM infection in PD adult patients.

Methods:

All patients with NTM exit-site infection (ESI) with/without tunnel infection and peritonitis identified during the last decade in eight medical centers in Israel were included. Clinical, microbiological, and outcome data were collected and analyzed.

Results:

Thirty patients were identified; 16 had ESI (53%) and 14 had peritonitis (47%). Median age was 65 years (interquartile range 52–76). Abdominal pain and cloudy PD fluid were reported in all patients with peritonitis, whereas exit-site discharge and granulation tissue were common in patients with ESI. Fourteen patients (47%) had negative cultures prior NTM diagnosis, and isolation of diphtheroids or Corynebacterium spp. was reported in 9 of 30 patients (30%). Antimicrobial treatment prior to diagnosis was documented in 13 of 30 patients (43%). Delayed diagnosis was frequent. Treatment regimens and duration of therapy varied widely. In 26 of 30 (87%) patients, catheter was removed and 19 of 30 patients (63%) required permanent transition to hemodialysis. Two patients with peritonitis (2 of 14, 14%) and seven with ESI (7 of 16, 44%) were eligible for continuation of PD.

Conclusions:

Culture negative peritonitis, isolation of diphtheroids or Corynebacterium spp., previous exposure to antibiotics, and/or a refractory infection should all prompt consideration of PD-related NTM infection and timely workup. Catheter removal is recommended aside prolonged antimicrobial therapy. In select patients with ESI, continuation of PD may be feasible.
In situ preparation and properties of phthalonitrile resin/hexagonal boron nitride composites
Authors: Chen Xinggang , Wang Yafeng , Chen Zhen , Zhang Lifang , Sang Xiaoming , Cai Yanqing
Published: May 2020

Phthalonitrile resin/exfoliated hexagonal boron nitride ( h-BN) composites with high thermal conductivity were fabricated using a novel approach. The route included two steps, micro- h-BN was coated and dispersed by phthalonitrile monomers via the function of heterogeneous nucleation, and then micro- h-BN was exfoliated by heat release during the phthalonitrile curing process. The composites achieved a high thermal conductivity of 0.736W (m·K)−1 containing 20 wt% micro- h-BN, which is 3.17 times higher than that of pure phthalonitrile resin at 0.232W (m·K)−1. Compared to traditional routes, the novel preparation approach requires less BN fillers when improving the same thermal conductivity. Importantly, other thermosetting polymers can also encapsulate BN through this strategy, which paves a new way for preparing thermally conductive thermosetting polymer–matrix composites.
Design and analysis of a shape-transformable polyhedral mechanism with transformation between a truncated tetrahedron and a tetrahedron
Authors: Kong Fanchen , Liu Jingfang , Ding Huafeng
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study is to present a novel shape-transformable polyhedral mechanism namely, the TrT–T mechanism, which can transform between a truncated tetrahedron and a common tetrahedron. The conceptual model of the TrT–T mechanism is proposed and described. For one-degree-of-freedom objective, a hexagonal planar linkage is chosen as a hexagonal interlinked unit to develop a solid model and fabricate a prototype. Mobility analysis is carried out based on screw theory. The inverse and forward kinematics are investigated, and the singularity is analyzed. The trajectories and velocities of the hinge points are described and explored. The prototype and simulation results demonstrate the feasibility of the TrT–T mechanism for shape transformation and validate the correctness of the mobility analysis. As a novel polyhedral linkage, the TrT–T mechanism can be potentially applied to modules with shape-transformation ability for constructing reconfigurable and modular robots.
Bayesian multiple instance regression for modeling immunogenic neoantigens
Authors: Park Seongoh , Wang Xinlei , Lim Johan , Xiao Guanghua , Lu Tianshi , Wang Tao
Published: May 2020

The relationship between tumor immune responses and tumor neoantigens is one of the most fundamental and unsolved questions in tumor immunology, and is the key to understanding the inefficiency of immunotherapy observed in many cancer patients. However, the properties of neoantigens that can elicit immune responses remain unclear. This biological problem can be represented and solved under a multiple instance learning framework, which seeks to model multiple instances (neoantigens) within each bag (patient specimen) with the continuous response (T cell infiltration) observed for each bag. To this end, we develop a Bayesian multiple instance regression method, named BMIR, using a Gaussian distribution to address continuous responses and latent binary variables to model primary instances in bags. By means of such Bayesian modeling, BMIR can learn a function for predicting the bag-level responses and for identifying the primary instances within bags, as well as give access to Bayesian statistical inference, which are elusive in existing works. We demonstrate the superiority of BMIR over previously proposed optimization-based methods for multiple instance regression through simulation and real data analyses. Our method is implemented in R package entitled “BayesianMIR” and is available at https://github.com/inmybrain/BayesianMIR .
Regression shrinkage methods for clinical prediction models do not guarantee improved performance: Simulation study
Authors: Van Calster Ben , van Smeden Maarten , De Cock Bavo , Steyerberg Ewout W
Published: May 2020

When developing risk prediction models on datasets with limited sample size, shrinkage methods are recommended. Earlier studies showed that shrinkage results in better predictive performance on average. This simulation study aimed to investigate the variability of regression shrinkage on predictive performance for a binary outcome. We compared standard maximum likelihood with the following shrinkage methods: uniform shrinkage (likelihood-based and bootstrap-based), penalized maximum likelihood (ridge) methods, LASSO logistic regression, adaptive LASSO, and Firth’s correction. In the simulation study, we varied the number of predictors and their strength, the correlation between predictors, the event rate of the outcome, and the events per variable. In terms of results, we focused on the calibration slope. The slope indicates whether risk predictions are too extreme (slope < 1) or not extreme enough (slope > 1). The results can be summarized into three main findings. First, shrinkage improved calibration slopes on average. Second, the between-sample variability of calibration slopes was often increased relative to maximum likelihood. In contrast to other shrinkage approaches, Firth’s correction had a small shrinkage effect but showed low variability. Third, the correlation between the estimated shrinkage and the optimal shrinkage to remove overfitting was typically negative, with Firth’s correction as the exception. We conclude that, despite improved performance on average, shrinkage often worked poorly in individual datasets, in particular when it was most needed. The results imply that shrinkage methods do not solve problems associated with small sample size or low number of events per variable.
The inequity of conscientious objection: Refusal of emergency contraception
Authors: Yang Chelsey
Published: May 2020

In the medical field, conscientious objection is claimed by providers and pharmacists in an attempt to forgo administering select forms of sexual and reproductive healthcare services because they state it goes against their moral integrity. Such claim of conscientious objection may include refusing to administer emergency contraception to an individual with a medical need that is time-sensitive. Conscientious objection is first defined, and then a historical context is provided on the medical field’s involvement with the issue. An explanation of emergency contraception’s physiological effects is provided along with historical context of the use on emergency contraception in terms of United States Law. A comparison is given between the United States and other developed countries in regard to conscientious objection. Once an understanding of conscientious objection and emergency contraception is presented, arguments supporting and contradicting the claim are described. Opinions supporting conscientious objection include the support of moral integrity, religious diversity, and less regulation on government involvement in state law will be offered. Finally, arguments against the effects of conscientious objection with emergency contraception are explained in terms of financial implications and other repercussions for people in lower socioeconomic status groups, especially people of color. Although every clinician has the right and responsibility to treat according to their sense of responsibility or conscience, the ethical consequences of living by one’s conscience are limiting and negatively impact underprivileged groups of people. It is the aim of this article to advocate against the use of provider’s and pharmacist’s right to claim conscientious objection due to the inequitable impact the practice has on people of color and individuals with lower incomes.
The Role of Incubators in the Internationalization Process of Incubated SMEs: A Perspective of International Cooperation
Authors: Franco Mário , Haase Heiko , Rodini Arialba
Published: May 2020

This study aims to understand the role of incubators, involved in international cooperation networks, in the process of internationalization of incubated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Thus, in exploratory research, the method of multiple case studies was used, that is, three incubators (cases) were studied, two in Portugal and one in England. Interviews and documentary analysis were used as data collection techniques. From content analysis, the results of this study show that the objectives of these incubators are the development of local entrepreneurship through innovative projects, differentiating between them, by the positive impact, linked to socio-environmental criteria. All the incubators studied reinforce entrepreneurial behaviour and create an environment of innovation and internationalization for their incubated SMEs. Based on the empirical evidence, the internationalization activities of SMEs are facilitated by incubators involved in international cooperation relations. Some implications for theory and practice in this area of research are also presented in this article.
Green Dimensions, Environment Orientation and Size: Impact Assessment on Operational Performance of Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Gupta Garima , Nagpal Sonika
Published: May 2020

Rise in the environmental problems in past few years has led to discussions and debate concerning the actions required from government, corporate sector and society at large. Realizing that espousal of green marketing practices is now inevitable, all concerned stakeholders including the business firms are assuming responsibility to safeguard environment from further degradation by actively engaging in eco-friendly practices. It is in this backdrop that the current research delves into the green practices that specifically hold relevance for manufacturing firms. Using the technique of CFA on the response set obtained from 77 key officials, the study confirms the composition of green dimensions and examines the performance of each of the constituents on operational performance of sample firms. The study additionally contributes to the existing literature by analysing the role of management’s environment orientation and firm size in influencing the aforesaid impact and linkages. The insights provided in the article would be useful for the management of manufacturing firms in formulating appropriate mix of green activities that could enable them in effectively attaining their operational objectives. The limitations acknowledged in the present work pave way for future studies in the area of green marketing.
Foreign Ownership and Corporate Social Responsibility: The Case of an Emerging Market
Authors: Tokas Kalpana , Yadav Kartik
Published: May 2020

This article adds to the international business and corporate social responsibility (CSR) literature by investigating the impact of foreign ownership on the CSR expenditures of firms in a host country, within an emerging market context. Previous studies have examined the relationship between ownership structure and CSR engagement, primarily for the case of developed nations. This article explores the linkages between the CSR spending of foreign-owned firms in relation to their domestic counterparts for the Indian context. India provides a unique case because of the landmark legislation undertaken in 2014 that mandated CSR spending for firms based in India. This study examines the motivations that guide the CSR strategies of foreign firms in host nations and attempts to explain the usage of CSR spending as a tool to overcome Liability of Foreignness and achieve legitimacy using the neo-institutional theory. Within this unique setting, a sample of 3591 firm years in India for 2014–2018 is used to examine whether foreign-owned firms indulge in a higher CSR expenditure relative to domestic firms, using a random-effects model. Further, it is also examined whether business group-affiliated foreign firms spend differently on CSR than standalone foreign enterprises in the host nation. The results show that foreign ownership is associated with a higher CSR spending than domestic firms by an average of ₹1.35 million in the host country. Furthermore, among foreign firms, a business group affiliation leads to a higher CSR spending by an average of ₹1.55 million as compared to stand-alone foreign firms.
Environmental Versus Firm-level Determinants of Firm Growth: A Structural Equation Modelling for Micro-level Analysis of Business Group Firms
Authors: Bini Matilde , Nascia Leopoldo , Zeli Alessandro
Published: May 2020

The study of the determinants of firms’ growth should consider both internal and external factors: these are the firms’ organizational features and the external competitive environment, which is also named market type, in which the firm operates. Among the internal factors, the organization model is the most important one. Among the factors that define the influence of market structure on a firm’s performance, there is business group affiliation, market concentration and business group heterogeneity. The aim of this study is to determine, in the context of business group affiliated firms, if there exists an influence of these internal and external factors. Using the structural equation model approach, results showed that a firm’s growth is influenced by both factors, and that the internal ones are prevalent.
An Overview of Disability Identification and Special Education Teacher Preparation in Cuba
Authors: Shelton Alexandra , Kelly Jerae , Sánchez Valdés Xiomara
Published: May 2020

The conclusion of the Cuban Revolution in January 1959 ushered in extensive changes to education in Cuba. One such substantial change was the formal establishment of special education in 1962. Since then, Cuba has maintained a national commitment to the education and inclusion of students with disabilities. However, education professionals in the United States remain largely unaware of these efforts. This Global Perspectives column presents a brief historical overview of Cuban special education as well as describes current special education practices that relate to identifying and serving students with learning disabilities and behavioral disorders and special education teacher preparation.
Aspirin Is Associated With Reduced Rates of Venous Thromboembolism in Older Patients With Cancer
Authors: Li Pengyang , Ning Ying , Li Mu , Cai Peng , Siddiqui Ahmad Daniyal , Liu Eric Yang , Hadley Michelle , Wu Fangcheng , Pan Su , Dixon Richard A. F. , Liu Qi
Published: May 2020

Background:

Older patients with cancer are at high risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding. Aspirin may decrease VTE in the general population without significant bleeding. Here, we examined whether aspirin is associated with reduced rates of VTE in older patients with cancer.

Methods and Results:

Using the National Inpatient Sample 2016, we retrospectively identified a cohort of patients with cancer ≥65 years old who received aspirin and a similar cohort who did not receive aspirin (n = 31 654, each). The cohorts were matched for age, sex, race, patient demographics, insurance, hospital demographics, and 9 comorbidities (smoking, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, and history of deep venous thrombosis [DVT]/pulmonary embolism [PE]). Primary outcomes were discharge diagnosis of acute PE or acute DVT. Secondary outcomes were inhospital mortality, bleeding, length of hospital stay (LOS), and total hospitalization cost. The aspirin group, compared with the nonaspirin group, had a significantly lower incidence of acute PE (matched, 2.1% vs 2.6%, P < .001), acute DVT (matched, 2.3% vs 3.2%, P < .001), and inhospital mortality (matched 4.0% vs 6.5%, P < .001); shorter LOS (matched, 5.29 ± 5.01 vs 6.20 ± 6.56 days, P < .001); and lower total costs (matched, US$14 700 ± 15 031 vs US$16 363 ± 20 219, P < .001). The primary and secondary outcomes were similar before and after propensity matching. We found no increase in bleeding in the aspirin group compared to the nonaspirin group: gastrointestinal bleeding (matched, 3.8% vs 4.0%, P= .168), hematuria (matched, 3.5% vs 3.7%, P = .102), hemoptysis (matched, 0.9% vs 0.9%, P = .532), and hemorrhagic stroke (matched, 0.8% vs 0.8%, P = .443). In subgroup analyses, aspirin was associated with decreased inhospital mortality, mostly in patients with lung, colon, pancreatic, prostate, breast cancer, lymphoma, and leukemia.

Conclusions:

Among older patients with cancer, aspirin was associated with lower VTE incidence and overall inhospital mortality without significantly increased bleeding.
Instructional Approaches That Promote Positive Social Outcomes for Young Children: A Historical Review of Single-Case Design Research
Authors: Steed Elizabeth A. , Barton Erin E. , Strain Phillip S.
Published: May 2020

This historical review explores the development of the literature base of single-case intervention research associated with the promotion of social outcomes for young children under the age of 9. Research studies are included from the seminal study conducted in 1956, continuing through 2019. Trends and patterns in study components are noted, such as changes over time in participant populations and the use of natural versus segregated and clinic settings. The evolution of research using particular social interventions is described as well as the various intervention agents used to impact social dependent variables across decades. Future research implications are discussed, including understudied components of social competence, the contextual variables that impact fidelity of implementation, and the need for continued research in natural settings using evidence-based social interventions that also are culturally and linguistically relevant for diverse and inclusive early learning settings.
A Sign of the Crimes: Examining Officers’ Identification of, and Arrest for, Stalking in Domestic Violence Complaints
Authors: Brady Patrick Q. , Reyns Bradford W. , Dreke Rebecca
Published: May 2020

Despite stalking as a risk factor for intimate partner homicide, few studies have explored officer decision making in domestic violence (DV) complaints that involve stalking. This study employs the focal concerns perspective to identify the legal and extra-legal factors associated with officers' identification of, and arrest for, stalking in DV complaints. Using a statewide sample of 230 DV complaints from Rhode Island, findings indicated that nearly one in four suspects were arrested for stalking in DV complaints (25.2%). Stalking acknowledgment was associated with the location of the offense, prior police involvement, and the total number of offenses committed. Officers were more likely to arrest suspects for stalking in DV complaints if the victim was willing to cooperate. Support for the focal concerns perspective varied according to the type of decision. Avenues for future research, as well as theoretical and practical implications, are discussed.
Gluteus maximus tendon transfer for chronic abductor insufficiency: the Geneva technique
Authors: Christofilopoulos Panayiotis , Kenanidis Eustathios , Bartolone Placido , Poultsides Lazaros , Tsiridis Eleftherios , Kyriakopoulos George
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

The treatment options of chronic abductor insufficiency in the setting of muscle degeneration, are limited and technically demanding. We present the outcomes of a salvage technique for unreconstructable, chronic abductor tears performed by a single surgeon.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated 38 patients who were surgically managed for chronic abductor insufficiency. Patients without hip implants and patients following primary or revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) were involved. All patients had a Trendelenburg gait, impaired muscle strength of abduction (⩽M4) and fatty degeneration of muscles (Goutallier ⩾3). They underwent transfer of a flap of the anterior third of gluteus maximus to the greater trochanter that was sutured under the slightly mobilised vastus lateralis. The level of pain, functional scores, muscle strength and Trendelenburg gait were re-evaluated at 12 postoperative months.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 70.2 years. 10 patients received the tendon transfer on a native hip, 6 following primary THA and 22 after revision THA. The mean pain level (3.2 vs. 7, p < 0.001) and Harris Hip Score (80.2 vs. 41.6, p < 0.001) and the median abductor strength (4 vs. 3, p < 0.001) was significantly improved compared to the preoperative scores. 26 patients demonstrated negative and 12 positive Trendelenburg sign at 12 postoperative months. No serious complications were reported.

Conclusions:

This salvage technique improved the strength of abduction and functional results and reduced the level of pain in 80% of patients with chronic abductor tears. The short-term outcomes of the procedure were favourable; however, further evaluation is needed.
Cloaked in Strength—how possum skin cloaking can support Aboriginal women’s voice in family violence research
Authors: Andrews Shawana
Published: May 2020

The Cloaked in Strength project explored the lived experience of family violence of 15 urban Australian Aboriginal mothers through a process of possum skin cloak making. This article presents the findings of the fourth study question that asks: how does cultural practice support Aboriginal women as they reflect upon their experiences of family violence? Highlighting two research stories, the article explores the first story of a reflexive research design that highlighted the women’s engagement with the possum skin cloaking, and its therapeutic relevance in their lives. The second story identifies the importance of the possum skin cloaking process as a significant methodological approach, supporting the women’s storying of family violence. The stories merge to create one research narrative with distinct findings which offer insights into the importance of privileging Aboriginal women’s gendered voice in conversations about family violence, while emphasising the cultural identity-affirming context within which they must occur.
The Impact of Suspension of Dermatology On-Call Services
Authors: Langley Annie , Kirchhof Mark G.
Published: May 2020

Background

Dermatological conditions are commonly seen in the emergency department and inpatient wards. The ability to access dermatology on-call services improves the accuracy of diagnosis and management of common and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Limitations of dermatologist availability led to the suspension of the dermatology on-call service for 3 months in Ottawa, Canada.

Objectives

Our objective was to assess the impact of this call suspension on patient care and the need for a dermatology on-call service at our hospital, as perceived by nondermatologist physicians at our center.

Methods

A survey was sent to all departments at The Ottawa Hospital, addressed to staff physicians and residents. Participation was entirely voluntary. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey responses.

Results

A total of 105 physicians completed the survey including staff physicians (85%) and resident trainees (15%). The most represented specialties were emergency medicine ( N = 21), general internal medicine ( N = 19), nephrology ( N = 17), neurology ( N = 13), and plastic surgery ( N = 13). Over half of the respondents felt that the lack of dermatology on-call service impacted the care of their patients by a moderate or great extent. Over half reported performing dermatology-related clinical work during the call suspension and two-thirds of these individuals reported feeling uncomfortable or very uncomfortable doing so. Most (94%) participants felt that an on-call dermatology service was useful and 57% deemed it essential.

Conclusion

Our survey results demonstrate a significant impact of the suspension of a dermatology on-call service, as perceived by nondermatologist physicians. Hospitals need to recognize the importance of on-call dermatology consultations and provide support for divisions to enable this service to continue.
The economic impacts of the 2018 Winter Olympics
Authors: Wood Jeremy , Meng Samuel
Published: May 2020

The economic viability of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics is still being debated. Using the latest available input–output tables and tourism data, this study estimates the short-run impact of the event. The estimated macroeconomic effect shows that tourism spending linked to the 2018 Winter Olympic Games has contributed ₩1.9 trillion to national output, which is greater than the operational cost of ₩1.7 trillion. It is estimated that the ₩11.5 trillion of infrastructural investment may have induced ₩18.5 trillion of gross domestic product for the national economy, so hosting the 2018 Winter Olympic Games is beneficial to South Korea. The sectoral effect shows that the increase in tourism demand benefits not only tourism sectors but also non-tourism sectors due to significant indirect and induced effects.
A patient-specific fluid–structure interaction model of the cerebrovascular damage in relation to traumatic brain injury
Authors: Razaghi Reza , Biglari Hasan , Karimi Alireza
Published: May 2020

Background

There is a lack of knowledge on the magnitudes of the biomechanical stresses and deformations occurring in the cerebral arterial wall after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Experimental techniques are unable to calculate the stresses and deformations in the cerebral arterial wall after TBI; therefore, the application of numerical simulations, such as finite element modeling, is preferred.

Methods

This study was aimed to calculate the stresses and deformations as well as the alteration in the pressure and velocity of the blood in the cerebrovascular artery using a fluid–structure interaction model.

Results

The results revealed considerable increase in the pressure and velocity of the blood which might lead to cerebrovascular damage followed by hemorrhage. The arterial wall showed the highest deformation of 0.047 mm in the X direction which was higher than that in the Y (0.035–0.050 mm) and Z (0.019–0.030 mm) directions.

Conclusions

These results have implications not only for the understanding of the stresses and deformations in the cerebral artery because of TBI, but also for providing a comprehensive knowledge for biomechanical and medical experts in regard to thresholds of cerebrovascular damage for use in establishing preventive and/or treatment methods.
A systematic review on material selection methods
Authors: Rahim Aamir AA , Musa S Nurmaya , Ramesh S , Lim Ming K
Published: May 2020

Technological advancements and the growing material set in the world have created a large variety of options for industrial designers, but little attention has been given to the tools and methods that support material selection processes. In this paper, we report on a comprehensive systematic literature review (SLR) guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement on methods or approaches reported for supporting material selection processes. This review covers various published literature, spanning from 2000 to 2018. The purpose is to examine in detail the evolution of the extensive body of research, its research streams and to position possible areas for further research. A classification framework consisting of six categories of selection approaches was derived from the extensive literature. Additionally, a detailed analysis of predominant approaches was presented along with their advantages and limitations with respect to the material selection domain. Taken together, the insights gained from this study may be of assistance to new researchers and practitioners who are looking for potential selection methods for their specific applications. The review also found that there is an increasing trend of research in recent years in the area of OR-based method application specifically on the multi-criteria decision-making supporting material selection processes.
Against hands-on neutrality
Authors: De Vries Bouke
Published: May 2020

In recent years, several theorists have defended a form of neutrality that seeks to equalise the benefits that state policies bestow upon citizens’ conceptions of the good life. For example, when state policies confer special benefits upon a conception that revolves around a particular culture, religion or type of sports, other cultures, religions or types of sports might be due compensation. This article argues that this kind of neutrality – which I refer to as ‘hands-on neutrality’ – cannot be vindicated, whether it takes a resourcist form or welfarist form. After explaining why states cannot simply avoid bestowing unequal advantages upon citizens’ conceptions of the good life, I identify several versions of hands-on neutrality and show that all of them fail to respect the moral equality of citizens. (In so doing, however, I do find that a different form of neutrality is appropriately applied under a more limited set of conditions, which is lottery-based.) I conclude by showing that in cases where theories of hands-on neutrality have intuitive force, more plausible rival principles can account for our intuitions.
Self-care and related factors associated with left ventricular systolic function in patients under follow-up after myocardial infarction
Authors: Kim Sun Hwa , Hwang Seon Young , Shin Jeong-Hun , Lim Young-Hyo
Published: May 2020

Background

Recent advances in treatment have led to long-term survival after myocardial infarction (MI), but subsequent complications such as heart failure have also increased, and, therefore, the relationship between prognosis and self-care needs to be investigated.

Aims

This study aimed to confirm the relationship of potential variables affecting self-care of patients after MI and to determine whether self-care predicts left ventricular systolic function.

Methods

Using a descriptive study design, a hypothetical model was constructed based on previous studies, and 191 post-MI patients were recruited from three university hospital outpatient clinics in Korea. The modified model was verified by constructing a structural equation model using AMOS version 24.0. The exogenous variables were illness perception, social support, and depression symptoms. The endogenous variables were self-efficacy, self-care compliance, and changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Results

The average patient age and disease duration were 66.3 (±11.5) years and 62.1 (±56.6) months, respectively. Self-care compliance was directly influenced by self-efficacy and indirectly affected by social support. Self-care compliance had a direct effect on LVEF changes, which was indirectly associated with illness perception, social support, and self-efficacy.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the direct effect of self-care compliance on changes in LVEF in patients under follow-up after MI. It is necessary to periodically monitor the degree of self-care in outpatients who are undergoing follow-up after MI to prevent a decrease in cardiac function. Counseling and education may be effective forms of social support to improve disease awareness and self-efficacy among patients with low self-care compliance.
Freedom of Information Research and Cultural Studies: A Subterranean Affinity
Authors: Walby Kevin , Luscombe Alex
Published: May 2020

Introducing the idea of subterranean affinity, this article explores how methodological use of Freedom of Information (FOI) requests can contribute to the field of cultural studies. Contributing to literatures on transparency and secrecy, we consider six ways that FOI requests can contribute to and extend the field of cultural studies. These six intersections entail a productive engagement with secrecy, which dissolves the typical opposition of transparency and secrecy germane to most FOI discourse. We argue it is methodologically crucial to operate in terms of a subterranean affinity to evade the visibility traps of state agencies while preventing dogmas from emerging.
Design of smart agriculture based on big data and Internet of things
Authors: Li Chunling , Niu Ben
Published: May 2020

With the wide application of Internet of things technology and era of large data in agriculture, smart agricultural design based on Internet of things technology can efficiently realize the function of real-time data communication and information processing and improve the development of smart agriculture. In the process of analyzing and processing a large amount of planting and environmental data, how to extract effective information from these massive agricultural data, that is, how to analyze and mine the needs of these large amounts of data, is a pressing problem to be solved. According to the needs of agricultural owners, this article studies and optimizes the data storage, data processing, and data mining of large data generated in the agricultural production process, and it uses the k-means algorithm based on the maximum distance to study the data mining. The crop growth curve is simulated and compared with improved K-means algorithm and the original k-means algorithm in the experimental analysis. The experimental results show that the improved K-means clustering method has an average reduction of 0.23 s in total time and an average increase of 7.67% in the F metric value. The algorithm in this article can realize the functions of real-time data communication and information processing more efficiently, and has a significant role in promoting agricultural informatization and improving the level of agricultural modernization.
Optimal control for networked control systems with multiple delays and packet dropouts
Authors: Lu Xiao , Zhang Qiyan , Liang Xiao , Wang Haixia , Sheng Chunyang , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: May 2020

This article focuses on the problem of optimal linear quadratic Gaussian control for networked control systems with multiple delays and packet dropouts. The main contributions are twofold. Firstly, based on the introduced maximum principle for linear quadratic Gaussian system with multiple input delays and packet dropouts, a nonhomogeneous relationship between the state and costate is obtained, which is the key technical tool to solve the problem. Secondly, a necessary and sufficient condition for the optimal networked control problem is given in virtue of the coupled Riccati equations, and the explicit expression of the optimal controller is presented. Numerical examples are shown to illustrate the proposed algorithm.
Costo-osteochondral graft (rib graft) reconstruction of the irreparable proximal scaphoid
Authors: Zechmann-Mueller Nadja A. , Collocott Shirley , Heiss-Dunlop Wolfgang
Published: May 2020

We present our series of 21 cases in which proximal scaphoid nonunions with fragmentation were treated with costo-osteochondral graft reconstruction (rib graft). The median follow-up was 29 months. Union was achieved in all 21 patients. There were significant improvements in subjective and objective outcome measurements and carpal alignment was well maintained in all patients, as shown by normal postoperative capitolunate angle measurements. No donor site complications were encountered. Rib graft reconstruction offers a reliable and straightforward option for the difficult problem of the irreparable proximal pole of the scaphoid.

Level of evidence: IV
Association of cathepsin B and cystatin C with an age-related pulmonary subclinical state in a healthy Chinese population
Authors: Wang Nan , Yuan Yajun , Bai Xiaojuan , Han Wen , Han Lulu , Qing Bijuan
Published: May 2020

Background:

Cathepsin B (CTSB) and cystatin C (CYSC) are new biomarkers for several physiological and pathological processes as their activities increase with age. The aim of this study was to explore population-level associations between serum CTSB and CYSC with an age-related pulmonary subclinical state.

Methods:

We examined 401 healthy participants (aged 36–87 years, of which 44.3% were male) in northern Chinese cities. We used a standard spirometer to determine lung function. Serum CTSB and CYSC levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results:

For all participants, serum CTSB was related to maximum vital capacity (VC MAX), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s, peak expiratory flow, forced expiratory flow at 25% of FVC, forced expiratory volume in 3 s (FEV3), and inspiratory vital capacity (VC IN). These associations were lost after full adjustment. CYSC remained significantly associated with inspiratory capacity (IC), breath frequency (BF; p < 0.001), minute ventilation (MV), the ratio of FEV3 and FVC (FEV3%FVC), and expiratory reserve volume ( p < 0.05) after adjusting for all other possible confounders. In males, serum CYSC levels exhibited significant and independent associations with FVC, FEV3 ( p < 0.05), and IC ( p < 0.001) and serum CTSB levels exhibited significant and independent associations with BF ( p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Our results confirmed serum CYSC concentration associations with an age-related lung function in healthy people. However, the association between serum CTSB and lung function was not well confirmed. Serum measurements of CYSC may provide valuable predictors of pulmonary function in healthy people, especially healthy elderly adults. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Forward flight tests of a quadcopter unmanned aerial vehicle with various spherical body diameters
Authors: Theys Bart , De Schutter Joris
Published: May 2020

This paper presents experimental results on the relation between forward airspeed, pitch angle, and power consumption of a quadcopter unmanned aerial vehicle. The quadcopter consists of an interchangeable spherical body, four cylindrical arms, and small propellers mounted at 1 m diagonal distance to minimize interference between body and propellers. This simple geometry facilitates results reproduction and comparison with simulation. Two different takeoff masses and four diameters of spherical bodies are tested for their steady-state speed and power for pitch angles up to [Formula: see text]. The steady-state horizontal flight is recorded with on-board sensors at the end of flying long straight lines at a constant pitch angle in wind-still conditions. The best effective lift-to-drag ratio increases for smaller bodies and occurs at higher speeds for increasing mass. Results show that the equivalent frontal surface stays constant for pitch angles further than [Formula: see text] up to the maximum recorded [Formula: see text] and increases linearly with the frontal surface of the body.