bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Portfolio Strategies on Portfolio Performance and Risk
Authors: Shaukat Zunera , Shahzad Ahmad
Published: January 2019

The Portfolio strategies are the effective investment tools pertaining to active and passive investment approaches. This signifies the investor’s inclination of buying and selling the risky and risk-free assets. The research includes four strategies namely buy and hold strategy, dynamic asset allocation, strategic asset allocation and tactical asset allocation along with their dimensions. Strategies based hypothetical portfolios are generated on the basis of 14 years’ stock prices (2005-2017). The annually and monthly risk-adjusted return ratios; Sharpe ratio, Treynor’s measure, CAPM and Jenson Alpha are calculated individually. Simulated annualized portfolios generate significant result with Sharpe and treynor measure. Alpha return is generated with buy and hold if based on growth in stock prices. For empirical result, One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used for studying the relationship between the strategies. Post hoc Tukey’s test is applied to find the difference between the strategies. The ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test for monthly portfolios gives significant results with three measure Sharpe ratio, CAPM and Jenson Alpha. No empirical significant result is measured on the basis of treynor measure.
Evaluation of English Textbook of Intermediate Class From Students’ Perspectives
Authors: Lodhi Muhammad Arfan , Farman Hifza , Ullah Ihsan , Gul Aiza , Tahira Fareeha , Saleem Sidra
Published: January 2019

Textbooks play significant role in teaching and learning continuum. Due to this reason, Curriculum wings and Directorate of staff development (Punjab) have had continuous check and monitoring in devising goals and standards in textbooks from grade 1 to grade 10. But at intermediate level specially in12th grade, the same text book i.e. Good-bye Mr. Chips is being taught more than 20 years. It is assumed that there lies a huge literacy and learning gap between the secondary level English textbooks and intermediate level English textbooks. The present study keeping in view the issues and gaps in mind was an attempt to investigate the importance of English textbooks being taught at intermediate level (Grade 12) in different schools and colleges in Punjab. Prospective study occupies descriptive type of research framework. The textbook of English being taught at intermediate level is evaluated according to specified models and strategies mentioned in previous research studies based upon textbook evaluation. Sample was determined through applying cluster random sampling technique. Questionnaire was designed, validated and administered after conducting pilot phase. The findings of the study reveal that the textbook being taught at intermediate level is not be up to snuff to convene the common objectives of the target language and is irreconcilable with the requirements of promoting confidence and ornamental language skills. Moreover, it is recommended that textbooks must be revised from time to time to obtain definite language learning objectives. The book being evaluated lacks innovation, students’ interest, relevant content and appropriate skills.
Anxiety in Classroom English Presentations: A Case Study in Korean Tertiary Educational Context
Authors: Tian Chunguang
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study is to examine Korean students’ anxiety in classroom presentations in tertiary educational context through classroom observation, self-reported questionnaire and semi-structured interview. In the stage of classroom observation, the potential responsivities relating with anxiety were explored through the analysis of fieldwork notes; the questionnaires were filled out by the students after they finished their presentations to unveil the students’ perceptions of their anxiety and the causes for such anxiety; the semi-structured interview was carried out to provide further evidence for the above findings. The research participants were twenty two students majoring in English education in a Korean national university. The research findings indicated that Korean students suffered different degree of anxiety in the course of classroom presentations; the major responsivities to anxiety included repeatedly occurring subconscious behaviors, silence, speech disruptions and slow rate of speaking and so forth. Concerning the causes arousing anxiety in classroom presentations, there were four major sources, consisting of negative attitude towards classroom presentations, preparation time, language proficiency, negative feedback from peers, while other factors like making mistakes, attention from audience, and teachers’ feedback were not the major source for students’ anxiety. These research findings should shed new light on classroom teaching for language teachers to improve their curriculum design to relieve students’ anxiety in classroom presentations.
Ants' Notion of Zero through the Perception of the Absence of an Odor
Authors: Cammaerts Marie-Claire , Cammaerts Roger
Published: January 2019

Workers of the ant Myrmica sabuleti can acquire the notion of ‘nothing’, i.e. a basic concept of zero, through olfactory conditioning, the best when the odor is unpleasant (onion odor) and when the response to the absence of the odor is rewarded. With a pleasant odor (lavender, rosemary or vanilla odor), the ants learn best when the response to the odor is rewarded. To our knowledge this is the first time that olfactory operant conditioning is obtained in animals by rewarding their response to ‘nothing’. The present work also points out: - the impact of the kind and quality of the cue to be learned on the animals’ learning score, - the improvement of a given learning over successive similar learning experiments, - the obtaining of a better learning when the reward is associated with the animals’ preference.
TERYTORIALNY SYSTEM ZABEZPIECZENIA
LOGISTYCZNEGO W ASPEKCIE WSPARCIA POLSKICH
KONTYNGENTÓW WOJSKOWYCH REALIZUJĄCYCH
ZADANIA W OPERACJACH WIELONARODOWYCH
POZA GRANICAMI KRAJU
Authors: GRALA ppłk dr inż. Dariusz
Published: January 2019

Niniejszy artykuł dotyczy problematyki wsparcia logistycznego polskich kontyngentów
wojskowych (PKW) realizujących zadania poza granicami kraju. Celem opracowania jest
identyfikacja zadań, jakie terytorialny system zabezpieczenia logistycznego realizuje na
rzecz kontyngentów wojskowych uczestniczących w operacjach wielonarodowych poza
granicami kraju. Autor przedstawia dostępne opcje organizacji zabezpieczenia logistycznego PKW, w tym rozwiązania logistyki wielonarodowej. Następnie opisuje rolę poszczególnych elementów systemu logistycznego SZ RP w zakresie wsparcia PKW, poddając
szczególnej analizie zadania realizowane przez jednostki terytorialny system zabezpieczenia logistycznego, tj. regionalne bazy logistyczne i wojskowe oddziały gospodarcze.
WYKORZYSTANIE METOD PROGNOSTYCZNYCH
W LOGISTYCE
Authors: DZIURNY dr Anna , KAWALEC dr Magdalena
Published: January 2019

Każde przedsiębiorstwo wymaga nieustannych przemyślanych zmian, które w razie
konieczności dostosują je do zmieniającej się rzeczywistości. W dobie silnej konkurencji i niepewności sytuacji rynkowej priorytetową rolę w logistyce odgrywają prognozy. Są one odpowiedzialne za szereg działań, takich jak wyprodukowanie, dostarczenie, a w dalszej kolejności sprzedanie właściwej ilości produktów lub usług, na jakie
w danym czasie występuje przewidywany popyt (zainteresowanie). Prognozowanie
jest narzędziem bardzo korzystnym, bowiem ułatwia osiągnięcie równowagi rynkowej. Dlatego też celem niniejszego artykułu jest ukazanie możliwości, jakie daje wykorzystanie metod prognostycznych w tej interdyscyplinarnej dziedzinie nauki.
Obchod s chudobou: obsahová analýza českých zpravodajských médií v období 2006–2017
Authors: Kupka Petr , Brendzová Alica , Walach Václav , Plachý Ondřej , Toušek Laco , Lupták Ľubomír , Tvrdá Kateřina , Vanková Klára
Published: January 2019

Poverty business has become an important metaphor in the current debate regarding security in socially excluded localities. The term poverty business covers a range of business practices aimed at the poorest and most vulnerable populations. The goal of this study is to examine media representations of the phenomenon using content analysis of quantitative and qualitative data. First, characteristics of Czech media messages including the term “poverty business” are analysed. Next, key events are identified which have shaped the way poverty business is reported on in the analysed corpus. Finally, topics, groups and key actors are analysed based on the development of their quantitative representation in the corpus over time.
Investigation of the dorsolateral branch of the posterior intercostal artery for use as the pedicle of a free flap: A cadaveric study and case series
Authors: Nam Su Bong , Seo Jung Yeol , Park Tae Seo , Sung Ji Yoon , Kim Joo Hyoung , Lee Jae Woo , Kim Min Wook , Oh Heung Chan
Published: January 2019

Background The dorsolateral branch of the posterior intercostal artery (DLBPI) can be easily found while harvesting a latissimus dorsi (LD) musculocutaneous flap for breast reconstruction. However, it remains unknown whether this branch can be used for a free flap and whether this branch alone can provide perfusion to the skin. We examined whether the DLBPI could be reliably found and whether it could provide sufficient perfusion.

Methods We dissected 10 fresh cadavers and counted DLBPIs with a diameter larger than 2 mm. For each DLBPI, the following parameters were measured: distance from the lateral margin of the LD muscle, level of the intercostal space, distance from the spinal process, and distance from the inferior angle of the scapula.

Results The DLBPI was easily found in all cadavers and was reliably located in the specified area. The average number of DLBPIs was 1.65. They were located between the seventh and eleventh intercostal spaces. The average length of the DLBPI between the intercostal space and the LD muscle was 4.82 cm. To assess the perfusion of the DLBPIs, a lead oxide mixture was injected through the branch and observed using X-rays, and it showed good perfusion.

Conclusions The DLBPI can be used as a pedicle in free flaps for small defects. DLBPI flaps have some limitations, such as a short pedicle. However, an advantage of this branch is that it can be reliably located through simple dissection. For women, it has the advantage of concealing the donor scar underneath the bra band.
Nail bed defect reconstruction using a thenar fascial flap and subsequent nail bed grafting
Authors: Lee Kyung Jin , Kim Yong Woo , Kim Jin Soo , Roh Si Young , Lee Dong Chul
Published: January 2019

Background Full-thickness nail bed defects with significant exposure of the distal phalanx are typically challenging to reconstruct. We describe a novel method of nail bed defect reconstruction using a thenar fascial flap combined with nail bed grafting.

Methods Full-thickness nail bed defects were reconstructed in a 2-stage operation involving the placement of a thenar fascial flap and subsequent nail bed grafting. A proximally-based skin flap was designed on the thenar eminence. The flap was elevated distally to proximally, and the fascial layer covering the thenar muscle was dissected proximally to distally. The skin flap was then closed and the dissected fascial flap was turned over (proximal to distal) and inset onto the defect. The finger was immobilized for 2 weeks, and the flap was dressed with wet and ointment dressings. After 2 weeks, the flap was divided and covered with a split-thickness nail bed graft from the great toe. Subsequent nail growth was evaluated on follow-up.

Results Nine patients (9 fingers) treated with the novel procedure were evaluated at follow-up examinations. Complete flap survival was noted in all cases, and all nail bed grafts took successfully. Five outcomes (55.6%) were graded as excellent, three (33.3%) as very good, and one (11.1%) as fair. No donor site morbidities of the thenar area or great toe were observed.

Conclusions When used in combination with a nail bed graft, the thenar fascial flap provides an excellent means of nail bed reconstruction.
Venous malformations of the head and neck: A retrospective review of 82 cases
Authors: Park Hannara , Kim Jin Soo , Park Hyochun , Kim Ji Yoon , Huh Seung , Lee Jong Min , Lee Sang Yub , Lee Seok Jong , Lee Joon Seok , Lee Jeong Woo , Chung Ho Yun
Published: January 2019

Background Venous malformations (VMs) are a common type of vascular malformation. However, their causes and management remain unclear, and few studies specific to VMs of the head and neck have been reported. This study describes our experiences with VMs of the head and neck.

Methods This retrospective study included 82 patients who underwent treatment for head and neck VMs, among 222 who visited our vascular anomalies center. Medical records between 2003 and 2016 were reviewed to identify common features in the diagnosis and treatment. The diagnosis of suspected head and neck VMs was based on the results of imaging studies or biopsies, and the VMs were analyzed based on magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and Doppler sonography findings.

Results VMs were slightly more common in female patients (59.8%), and 45.1% of patients developed initial symptoms at the age of 10 or younger. Lesions were slightly more common on the right side (47.3%). The main sites involved were the cheek (27.7%) and lip area (25.5%). The muscle layer was commonly involved, in 98.7% of cases. Small lesions less than 5 cm in diameter accounted for 60.8% of cases, and well-defined types were slightly more prevalent at 55.4%. Improvement was observed in 77.1% of treated patients.

Conclusions Early and accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment according to individual symptoms are important for successful treatment of VMs. If treatment is delayed, the lesions can worsen, or recurrence becomes more likely. Therefore, VMs require a multidisciplinary approach for early and accurate diagnosis.
Breast animation deformity
Authors: Dyrberg Diana Lydia , Bille Camilla , Gunnarsson Gudjon Leifur , Frandsen Tove Faber , Salzberg C. Andrew , Sørensen Jens Ahm , Thomsen Jørn Bo
Published: January 2019

Breast animation deformity (BAD) has been reported to occur after submuscular implant placement following breast augmentation and immediate breast reconstruction. Despite its apparent impact on patients’ quality of life, BAD has only recently become a topic of general concern. Its incidence and etiology have yet to be established. The aim of this systematic review was to identify papers that clearly defined and classified BAD and described how the degree of animation was assessed. We performed a search in PubMed and Embase. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria that described BAD after implant-based breast augmentation or immediate breast reconstruction were included. After screening 866 publications, four studies were included: three describing BAD after breast augmentation and one describing BAD after immediate breast reconstruction. The median percentage of patients with some degree of BAD was 58%. The highest percentages were found in patients operated on using the Regnault technique or the dual-plane technique (73%–78%). The lowest percentages were found following the dual-plane muscle-splitting technique (30%) and the triple-plane technique (33%). We found no studies meeting the inclusion criteria that analyzed BAD after prepectoral implant placement. This review of the current literature suggests that the degree of BAD is proportional to the degree of muscle involvement. Evidence is scarce, and the phenomenon seems to be underreported. Future comparative studies are warranted.
Fasciotomy in compartment syndrome from snakebite
Authors: Kim Yong Hun , Choi Jin-hee , Kim Jiye , Chung Yoon Kyu
Published: January 2019

Background Local symptoms and signs of snake envenomation mimic the clinical features of compartment syndrome. It is important to measure the intracompartmental pressure to diagnose compartment syndrome. In this study, we present our experiences of confirming compartment syndrome and performing fasciotomy in snakebite patients based on high intracompartmental pressure findings.

Methods The medical records of patients who visited the trauma center of Wonju Severance Christian Hospital from January 2010 to December 2015 for the management of venomous snakebite were retrospectively reviewed. Starting in 2014, fasciotomy was performed in patients with an intracompartmental pressure of more than 40 mmHg in addition to the clinical symptoms of compartment syndrome.

Results A total of 158 patients with snakebite came to the hospital within 48 hours for treatment. Most patients (110 patients) were bitten at the upper extremities (69.6%). Since 2014, 33 out of 59 patients were suspected to have compartment syndrome, and their intracompartmental pressures were measured. Seventeen of those patients had a high intracompartmental pressure (average, 49.6 mmHg; range, 37–88 mmHg), and fasciotomy was performed.

Conclusions In this study, as many as 10.8% of all cases were in need of fasciotomy when compartment syndrome was diagnosed by measuring the intracompartmental pressure. Previously, it was reported that fasciotomy was not required in many cases of compartment syndrome originating from snakebite. However, some patients may develop very severe compartment syndrome, requiring fasciotomy.
Distally-based free anterolateral thigh flap with a modified vena comitans
Authors: Kang Chan-Su , Kim Tae-Gon
Published: January 2019

With the recent development in microsurgery, the use of a perforator flap has been widely implemented. If the length of the ALT flap pedicle is insufficient despite adequate preoperative planning, pedicle length extension is necessary. We planned for a reverse ALT free flap using the distal vessel of the descending branch for pedicle length extension in the case of ALT perforator branch originating from the proximal portion of the descending branch. For the management of venous congestion, the distal venae comitantes were anastomosed to the proximal venous stump in an antegrade manner, successfully resolving the venous congestion. Modified reverse-flow ALT free flap, wherein the venae comitantes are anastomosed to the proximal vein stump, is a good option that allows for relatively simple pedicle extension within the same operative field when securing an adequate pedicle length is difficult because of the origin of the perforator from the proximal descending branch, unlike the initial surgical plan.
Surgical correction for Tessier number 7 craniofacial cleft using a medially overcorrected design
Authors: Ryu Jeong Yeop , Eo Pil Seon , Tian Lulu , Lee Joon Seok , Lee Jeong Woo , Choi Kang Young , Yang Jung Dug , Chung Ho Yun , Cho Byung Chae
Published: January 2019

Background Various surgical techniques have been used to correct Tessier number 7 craniofacial cleft, which involves macrostomia, ear deformity, and hemifacial microsomia. To achieve symmetrical and satisfactory results in patients with macrostomia, the authors performed a 1-mm medial overcorrection on the cleft side and evaluated the results of this procedure.

Methods A retrospective medical record review of patients diagnosed with Tessier number 7 craniofacial cleft from March 1999 to February 2017 was performed. Using clinical photographs, outpatient clinic records, and operative records, information was recorded regarding concurrent congenital anomalies, postoperative complications, and follow-up. Using Photoshop CS2, the length of both sides of the lip was compared. The ratio of these lengths was calculated to evaluate lip symmetry.

Results Of the patients treated at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, 11 (male-to-female sex ratio, 7:4) were diagnosed with Tessier number 7 craniofacial cleft. Concurrent congenital anomalies included skin tag, hemifacial microsomia, and cleft palate. The mean duration of follow-up was 78.273±72.219 months and the mean ratio of the lengths of both sides of the lip was 1.048±0.071. Scar widening occurred as a postoperative complication in some patients. No cases of wound infection, bleeding, or wound dehiscence occurred.

Conclusions For the successful correction of macrostomia, plastic surgeons should consider both functional and aesthetic problems of the lip. Adequate repair of the orbicularis oris muscle, skin closure with Z-plasty, and medial overcorrection of the neo-oral commissure led to good results in our patients.
Preliminary assessment of coupling the analysis of shell microstructures and microtextures as palaeoecological indicator in fossil brachiopods
Authors: Pérez-Huerta Alberto , Reed Hannah
Published: January 2019

Brachiopods are one of the most successful groups of marine invertebrates throughout the Phanerozoic. Despite their abundance and importance in the fossil record, there are numerous gaps in our understanding of their palaeoecology. In particular, there is little information about their mode of life in relation to the substrate, which can be important in palaeontological and sedimentological studies involving brachiopod faunas. The aim of this study is to test the combination of analyzing shell microstructures (with SEM) and microtextures (with EBSD) to elucidate palaeoecological aspects for three extinct species belonging to the Order Athyridida. Results indicate that Athyris spiriferoides and Composita ovata specimens have similar shell architecture to that of modern terebratulids, and were epifaunal species attached to a hard substrate by a pedicle. In contrast, Plicathyris ezquerrai has more shell similarities to modern rhynchonellids and likely had an epifaunal mode of life in a reclining position with ventral valve resting on the substrate. In summary, our ?ndings illustrate the usefulness of using a combined analysis of shell microstructures and microtextures in the study of brachiopod palaeoecology.
Productidinid brachiopods (Strophomenata, Productida), including Martinezchaconia luisae new genus and new species of Linoproductidae, from the Carboniferous of Santiago Ixtaltepec region, Oaxaca, Southeast México
Authors: Torres-Martínez Miguel A. , Sour-Tovar Francisco
Published: January 2019

We describe three brachiopod species of the Suborder Productidina from the Ixtaltepec Formation, Carboniferous of the north of Oaxaca State, southern Mexico, found in peri-reef deposits. Stegacanthia bowsheri and Undaria sp. are members of the families Sentosiidae and Monticuliferidae respectively and were found in strata of the Visean (Middle Mississippian). Martinezchaconia luisae, new genus and species of the Family Linoproductidae, was recollected in Bashkirian-Moscovian (Lower-Middle Pennsylvanian) strata. The respective ages are inferred from the index species of brachiopods associated with the productidines herein described.
A new suoid with tubulidentate, hypselorhizic cheek teeth from the early Miocene of Córcoles, Spain
Authors: Pickford Martin , Morales Jorge
Published: January 2019

Excavations at Córcoles, Guadalajara, Spain (MN 4) in October 1987, yielded a mandible and several isolated teeth of a strange suiform with tubulidentate cheek teeth, initially interpreted to be the remains of Tubulidentata. The specimens are complete enough to remove any doubt about which Order (Artiodactyla) and Superfamily (Suoidea) they belong to. They are here attributed to the Family Doliochoeridae, being related to the genera Bransatochoerus (MP 30) and Lorancahyus (MN 2) both of which have hypsorhizic cheek teeth, the latter with tubules in the teeth, but not to the fully-expressed extent seen in the fossils from Córcoles and the molars retain a distinct and large pulp cavity, which is absent in the Córcoles species. It is inferred that these suoids comprise an evolutionary lineage which went extinct in the early Miocene (ca MN 4b or MN 5) and that the dental specialisations imply ingestion of food to which soil was adhering, which caused excessive abrasion of the teeth, not only occlusally, but also on the lingual aspects of the cheek teeth. Examination of the occlusal and lingual surfaces of the teeth con?rm the presence of many pits and large scratches on them, in contrast to the buccal and distal surfaces of the teeth which have few scratches or none, respectively.
Adaptation of gestation or egg-laying in species depends on the amount of internal heat generated in digesting the food
Authors: Marasakatla Karunakar
Published: January 2019

Anatomically and physiologically, the reproductive process of gestation or egg-laying, and dietary habits in vertebrates appear to be distinct processes. An in-depth analysis of the dietary habits of vertebrates reveals that the gestation or egg-laying characteristic in these species is tightly coupled with the digestive process. Once the food has been ingested, it is then broken down to the molecular level to be absorbed into the body. The amount of energy required to digest the food depends upon the amount and composition of the food material that was ingested. The denser (ex. bones and muscle) and bigger the size of the food bits ingested, the higher the amount of energy required to break down the material - that in turn requires higher amount of gastrointestinal acids. Where there is higher amount of energy is consumed, there will be an excess amount of heat gets generated. Because of the proximity of uterus to digestive system, a layer develops around the embryo to protect it from this heat. Therefore, it appears that the higher amount of heat generated in digesting the food results in egg-laying characteristic in species such as birds and reptiles, which ingest large chunks of raw meat. Rest of the vertebrates adapted to gestation due to chewing the food into small pieces before ingesting which generates less internal heat in digestion. Species, which generate higher amount of internal heat in digestion, adapted to ectothermic nature such as reptiles. And the species, which generate less amount of internal heat, adapted to endothermic nature such as mammals. Birds are endothermic but they would have been ectothermic if there were no insulating feathers.
THE PERSISTENCE SPATIAL SETTLEMENTS BALUWARTI SURAKARTA SINCE 1749-2018
Authors: Hartanto Tri , Dharoko Tony Atyanto , Subroto Yoyok Wahyu
Published: January 2019

The background of Baluwarti settlement establishment derived from formal bond between people (kawula) and the court. This formal bond can be status of abdi dalem (giving service to the king/court) with title or kekancingan from the King. Dwelling was classified by status, role, and grade of respective dwellers. Thus, Baluwarti settlement is believed to have typical spatial layout because it was constructed with the Court’s traditional and cultural value concepts remaining to be visible today. Based on qualitative research paradigm and historical reading method, this research could see that the spatial layout of Baluwarti Settlement is circling or going around kedhaton concentrically. Single orientation faces to kedhaton . This form has a spatial function as defense and security system, serving or subjugating system, and tradition preserving system. Overall, the original form of Baluwarti Settlement’s spatial layout is still maintained until today, for about 270 years.
THE IDEOLOGICAL MEANINGS OF HERITAGE: THE CONFLICTING SYMBOLS IN YOGYAKARTA, INDONESIA
Authors: Siregar Johannes Parlindungan
Published: January 2019

The heritage of Yogyakarta is always situated in a dynamic urban environment. Heritage conservation has been challenged by a lack of understanding on the ideological process in the creation of meanings. This paper investigates the creation process of urban space that is currently appreciated as heritage. The paper uses the city of Yogyakarta as the case study because its uniqueness as a mix of traditional and colonial cities. The study uses the concept of meaning production to understand the association between the construction of urban space and ideological meanings. This concept corresponds to the creation of urban objects and the recognition of meanings in the society. This study uses data sourced from a literature study. As the result, the process of meaning production has demonstrated social and political forces in the construction of traditional and colonial buildings. Situation in the past demonstrates urban space as a tool of political hegemony of traditional court and colonialist. A different social milieu in the present day changes the conflicting ideologies into history. Therefore, the urban structure expresses political strategies of relevant authorities in proclaiming hegemony and regulating society. This study provides a basis for investigating the influence of ideologies on the meaning of heritage that corresponds to cultural significant.
EARTHQUAKE FAILURES ON BUILDINGS AND THE ROLE OF ARCHITECT ON BUILDING SAFETY
Authors: Idham Noor Cholis
Published: January 2019

The safety of building users against earthquakes is not directly caused by earthquakes, but rather by the ability of the people and environment to deal with the shake. The failure of the building is the most causing factor for the casualties and property losses. However, the building structural strength is not the single decisive aspect of building safety but also accompanying by others such as building design and the use of architectural elements. This paper explores the various failures after earthquakes and its relationship with architecture designs as the work of architect in the building process. The discussion is conducted based on the type of the failures, the causing factor of the damages, and how the builders should anticipate it. The results of this study show that the main principles relating to the safety of buildings are closely related to architects who play a significant role in building design starting from the decision of the location, choosing the appropriate building type, designing less vulnerable structure, and avoiding the complexity in building design. Architects are expected to increase the safety of building users by their devoted responsibility for avoiding the unnecessary casualties.
BLENDED LEARNING IN HERITAGE CONSERVATION COURSE: CULTURAL MAPPING AND GOOGLE MY-MAPS PLATFORM
Authors: Sholihah Arif Budi , Widodo Johannes
Published: January 2019

This paper attempts to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning in Heritage Conservation course, at the Department of Architecture Universitas Islam Indonesia Yogyakarta using both a mini-workshop in a historic district (cultural mapping) and Google My-Maps Platform (digital collaborative) as learning tools to achieve the learning outcomes. The overall finding shows that cultural mapping, as the first-hand information gathering of a heritage district gives the student understanding which then allows the students not only to appreciate the importance of heritage but also having empathy that heritage is not only about artifacts or architecture (tangible assets) but more about people who live in it. Meanwhile, Google My-Maps Platform offers an opportunity for the students to work together in different places and gives the flexibility on the digital learning process both in the heritage district, in the class, and at home. The result from the cultural mapping arranged in the My-Maps in many different forms, such as story/narratives, photos, and videos before producing the report on revealing the “DNA” of the heritage district and can be shared for the benefit of the public. This research has shown that blended learning (online and offline learning) is more effective in architectural education for it is more flexible but still allow the students to get direct experience with the real world.
Characteristics of Academic Inventors on Government-Linked US Drug Patents
Authors: Martin Matthew J. , Gabriele Sarah M.E. , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Tu S. Sean
Published: November 2024

This study examines the characteristics of academic researchers who obtained US government–linked drug patents.
A Simple Question
Authors: Campbell Bruce H.
Published: November 2024

In this narrative medicine essay, an emeritus professor of otolaryngology resists offering an affirmative response to a deceptively simple question about a complex reality.
Physical Activity and All-Cause Mortality by Age in 4 Multinational Megacohorts
Authors: Martinez-Gomez David , Luo Mengyun , Huang Yu , Rodríguez-Artalejo Fernando , Ekelund Ulf , Sotos-Prieto Mercedes , Ding Ding , Lao Xiang-Qian , Cabanas-Sánchez Verónica
Published: November 2024

Importance

Physical activity (PA) guidelines recommend the same amount of PA through adulthood to live longer.

Objective

To explore whether there is an age-dependent association between PA and all-cause mortality and to investigate the age-dependent associations between other modifiable health factors (high educational level, not smoking, not regularly consuming alcohol, healthy body weight, and living without hypertension and diabetes) and mortality.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used a pooled analysis of 4 population-based prospective cohorts (National Health Interview Survey, 1997-2018; UK Biobank, 2006-2010; China Kadoorie Biobank, 2004-2008; and Mei Jau, 1997-2016). Data were analyzed from June 2022 to September 2024.

Exposures

Self-reported leisure-time PA.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was deaths identified through follow-up linkage to national death registries. Analyses were performed for the total sample and by age groups (20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and ≥80 years). Cox proportional hazards regression models with stratification by study were used to calculate mortality hazard ratios and their 95% CIs for the pooled dataset and by age group.

Results

A heterogeneous sample of 2 011 186 individuals (mean [SD] age, 49.1 [14.3] years; age range, 20-97 years; 1 105 581 women [55.0%]) were included. After a median (IQR) follow-up of 11.5 (9.3-13.5) years, 177 436 deaths occurred. The association between PA and mortality in the total sample showed a nonlinear dose-response pattern, but age modified this association (P for interaction <.001); PA was consistently associated with a lower risk of mortality across all age groups, but the reduction in risk was greater in older vs younger age groups, especially at high levels of PA. The hazard ratio for mortality associated with meeting the recommended PA in the total sample was 0.78 (95% CI, 0.77-0.79). This inverse association between meeting PA recommendations and mortality was somewhat greater as age increased (P for interaction <.001). Age also modified the associations of the other modifiable health factors with mortality (all P for interaction <.001), but the magnitude of associations was greater in younger vs older age groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this pooled analysis of cohort studies, the association between PA and mortality risk remained consistent across the adult lifespan, which contrasts with other modifiable health factors, for which associations with mortality risk diminished with age. Given these findings, the promotion of regular PA is essential at all stages of adult life.
Predictive Power of Polygenic Risk Scores for Intraocular Pressure or Vertical Cup-Disc Ratio
Authors: He Weixiong , Lee Samantha Sze-Yee , Diaz Torres Santiago , Han Xikun , Gharahkhani Puya , Hunter Michael , Balartnasingam Chandrakumar , Craig Jamie E. , Hewitt Alex W. , Mackey David A. , MacGregor Stuart
Published: November 2024

Importance

Early detection of glaucoma is essential to timely monitoring and treatment, and primary open-angle glaucoma risk can be assessed by measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) or optic nerve head vertical cup-disc ratio (VCDR). Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) could provide a link between genetic effects estimated from genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and clinical applications to provide estimates of an individual’s genetic risk by combining many identified variants into a score.

Objective

To construct IOP and VCDR PRSs with clinically relevant predictive power.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This genetic association study evaluated the PRSs for 6959 of 51 338 individuals in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA; 2010 to 2015 with data from 11 centers in Canada) and 4960 of 5107 individuals the community-based Busselton Healthy Aging Study (BHAS; 2010 to 2015 in Busselton, Western Australia) with an artificial intelligence grading approach used to obtain precise VCDR estimates for the CLSA dataset. Data for approximately 500 000 individuals in UK Biobank from 2006 to 2010 were used to validate the power of the PRS. Data were analyzed from June to November 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

IOP and VCDR PRSs and phenotypic variance (R2) explained by each PRS.

Results

Participants in CLSA were aged 45 to 85 years; those in BHAS, 46 to 64 years; and those in UK Biobank, 40 to 69 years. The VCDR PRS explained 22.0% (95% CI, 20.1-23.9) and 19.7% (95% CI, 16.3-23.3) of the phenotypic variance in VCDR in CLSA and BHAS, respectively, while the IOP PRS explained 12.9% (95% CI, 11.3-14.6) and 9.6% (95% CI, 8.1-11.2) of phenotypic variance in CLSA and BHAS IOP measurements. The VCDR PRS variance explained 5.2% (95% CI, 3.6-7.1), 12.1% (95% CI, 7.5-17.5), and 14.3% (95% CI, 9.3-19.9), and the IOP PRS variance explained 2.3% (95% CI, 1.5-3.3), 3.2% (95% CI, 1.3-5.8), and 7.5% (95% CI, 6.2-8.9) (P < .001) across African, East Asian, and South Asian populations, respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

VCDR and IOP PRSs derived using a large recently published multitrait GWAS exhibited validity across independent cohorts. The findings suggest that an IOP PRS has the potential to identify individuals who may benefit from more intensive IOP-lowering treatments, which could be crucial in managing glaucoma risk more effectively. Individuals with a high VCDR PRS may be at risk of developing glaucoma even if their IOP measures fall within the normal range, suggesting that these PRSs could help in early detection and intervention, particularly among those who might otherwise be considered at low risk based on IOP alone.
Oncological Outcomes of Patients With Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders
Authors: Villa Alessandro , Lodolo Michele , Ha Patrick
Published: November 2024

Importance

Understanding the clinical course and malignant transformation rate of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs)—including oral leukoplakia, oral erythroplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, and oral lichen planus—is crucial for early detection and improved survival rates in patients with oral cancer.

Objective

To evaluate the progression of oral cancer from OPMDs using a large US electronic medical database.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used data from the University of California, San Francisco’s PatientExploreR database between January 1973 and March 2024. Patients with oral leukoplakia, oral erythroplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, and oral lichen planus were identified using International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, codes and keywords. Demographics, tobacco and alcohol use, HIV status, and other known risk factors for oral cancer were recorded to identify factors associated with malignant transformation. Logistic regression and descriptive analyses were used.

Exposure

Diagnosis of oral leukoplakia, oral erythroplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, or oral lichen planus.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incidence of oral cancer, malignant transformation rate, median time to progression, and associations between demographics and risk factors and the development of oral cancer.

Results

Among 4 225 251 individuals in the database, 4371 were diagnosed with oral cancer (median [IQR] age, 63 [53-71] years; 2610 [59.9%] male; 0.1% of the cohort), and 110 (2.5%) had a preceding OPMD. Oral leukoplakia was found in 1124 patients, with 94 (8.4%) undergoing malignant transformation (median [IQR] time to progression, 25 [7-129] months). HIV-positive patients with oral leukoplakia were more likely to develop oral cancer (odds ratio, 3.80; 95% CI, 1.35-10.70). Of 22 patients with oral erythroplakia, 11 (50.0%) developed oral cancer (median [IQR] time to progression, 3.7 [0.2-334] months). Those who smoked tobacco with oral erythroplakia showed a higher malignant transformation rate (odds ratio, 3.75; 95% CI, 0.54-26.05). Of the 78 patients with oral submucous fibrosis, 4 (5.1%) underwent malignant transformation (median [IQR] time to progression, 36 [36-48] months). Only 1 patient with oral lichen planus developed oral cancer after 5 years.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study showed that OPMDs have notable but varying propensities to progress to oral cancer. Early detection and monitoring of OPMDs are crucial for improving patient outcomes. However, the risk, etiopathogenesis, and clinical presentation vary for each OPMD and should, therefore, be considered distinct diseases.
Monolith Catalyst Design by Combining 3D Printing and Atomic Layer Deposition: Toward Green Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Dory Hippolyte , Petit Eddy , El‐Sayegh Syreina , Badouric Lucie , Castro Victoria , Bechelany Mikhael , Voiry Damien , Miele Philippe , Lajaunie Luc , Salameh Chrystelle
Published: November 2024

Catalysis plays a major role in various chemical processes including petroleum, pharmaceutical, fine chemistry, and energy. The development of highly functional catalysts is therefore essential. To meet the growing demand for advanced materials, we have developed ceramic catalyst supports known for their chemical inertness and thermal resistance. Using light‐assisted 3D printing, we designed complex architectures for ceramic substrates tailored to specific technical requirements. We developed ordered porous silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) ceramic monoliths with an architecture suitable for use as catalyst supports. The active sites are introduced by functionalizing the ceramic surface with palladium (Pd) nanoparticles using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). This technique is advantageous for achieving highly dispersed nanoparticles with uniform size distribution and minimal aggregation. We evaluated the catalytic performance by studying the effect of Pd loading on a Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction in water, as well as the reusability of the 3D‐printed catalytic monolith. The system demonstrates up to 82% yield and exhibits excellent stability, with no leaching of the active phase observed during the reaction cycles. These results underline the potential of 3D‐printed SiOC monoliths to create highly efficient and reusable catalytic systems, paving the way for advanced applications in a variety of industrial sectors.
The Role of Macromolecular Condensates in the Regulation of Intracellular Calcium Transport for Coccolith Formation
Authors: Bino Ehud , Aram Lior , Paul Debojit , Kadan Yuval , Clare Daniel , Gilchrist James B. , Elad Nadav , Gal Assaf
Published: November 2024

Inorganic minerals that form via regulated biological processes exhibit remarkable properties. This is due to the involvement of macromolecules that control biomineralization. Even though the interactions of these biopolymers with solid mineral phases are intensely studied, not much is known about their involvement in the preceding steps of intracellular transport of the mineral building blocks. In this work, the model system of coccolith calcite crystallization is utilized to address the role of mineral‐associated polysaccharides in the transport of calcium ions. State‐of‐the‐art cryo‐electron tomography is used to image in situ ion‐rich dense phases in the wild‐type and in two mutant strains, defected in coccolith production. The results show that the abundance and solubility of the calcium‐rich condensates need to be finely tuned for proper crystallization. When the native macromolecular assemblage is compromised, calcium is still present in the calcifying fluid as a solute, but this is not sufficient for coccolith development. These results suggest that biomineralizing systems achieve superior regulation of crystallization due to the use of dense macromolecule‐rich phases.
Two‐Periodic MoS2‐Type Metal–Organic Frameworks with Intrinsic Intralayer Porosity for High‐Capacity Water Sorption
Authors: Cao Honghao , Shi Le , Xiong Zhangyi , Zhu Haiyun , Wang Hao , Wang Kun , Yang Zhenning , Zhang Hai‐Feng , Liu Lingmei , O'Keeffe Michael , Li Mian , Chen Zhijie
Published: November 2024

2D metal–organic frameworks (2D‐MOFs) are an important class of functional porous materials. However, the low porosity and surface area of 2D‐MOFs have greatly limited their functionalities and applications. Herein, the rational synthesis of a class of mos‐MOFs with molybdenum disulfide (mos) net based on the assembly of trinuclear metal clusters and 3‐connected tripodal organic ligands is reported. The non‐crystallographic (3,6)‐connected mos net, different from the 3‐connected hcb net of graphene, offers abundant intralayer voids courtesy of the split of one node into two. Indeed, mos‐MOFs exhibit high apparent Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller surface areas, significantly superior to those of other 2D‐MOF analogs. Markedly, hydrolytically stable Cr‐mos‐MOF‐1 displays an impressive water vapor uptake of 0.75 g g−1 at 298 K and P/P0 = 0.9, among the highest in 2D‐MOFs. The combined water adsorption and X‐ray diffraction study reveal the water adsorption mechanisms, suggesting the importance of intralayer porosities of mos‐MOFs for high‐performance water capture. This study paves the way for a reliable approach to synthesizing 2D‐MOFs with high porosity and surface areas for diverse applications.
Assessing the Effect of a Schwarz P Surface on the Oxygen Electroreduction Performance of Porous Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Xu Zhi , Xiao Tianyu , Li Yinghua , Pan Yi , Li Chen , Liu Pan , Xu Qing , Tian Feng , Wu Liang , Xu Fugui , Mai Yiyong
Published: November 2024

The surface curvature of catalysts has a decisive impact on their catalytic performance. However, the influence of a negative‐Gaussian‐curvature surface on the catalytic performance of porous catalysts has remained unexplored due to the lack of suitable samples. Bicontinuous‐structured porous structures can serve as ideal models, but they are known as “Plumber's nightmare” due to their highly difficult preparation. Here, using metal–organic frameworks as the precursor and polymer cubosomes as the template, a bicontinuous mesoporous Fe single‐atom catalyst (named bmFeSAC) with a Schwarz P surface is synthesized. The bmFeSAC catalyst has a large specific surface area of 916 m2 g−1 and uniformly distributed Fe‐N4 active sites with a 1.80 wt.% Fe content. The continuous channels enabled high utilization efficiency of the Fe‐N4 catalytic sites, while the negative‐Gaussian‐curvature surface enabled low reaction energy barrier. As an electrocatalyst of the oxygen reduction reaction, bmFeSAC delivered a high half‐wave potential of 0.931 V versus. RHE in alkaline electrolyte, reaching the leading level among those of the reported state‐of‐the‐art electrocatalysts. Furthermore, the bmFeSAC‐based Zn‐air batteries exhibited excellent performance, demonstrating the potential application of bmFeSAC. This study revealed that a bicontinuous‐structured porous structure can improve catalytic activity by increasing the utilization ratio of catalytic sites and, more importantly, by regulating the electronic structure of catalyst surfaces through the negative‐Gaussian‐curvature.