bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of an Extended Working Channel in High-Risk Transbronchial Biopsy: An Innovative Use of an Existing Modality to Minimize Bleeding and Hypoxia
Authors: Mehta Ravindra M. , Biraris Pavankumar , Aurangabadwalla Rohan , Kalpakam Hariprasad , Bhat Rajani , Bajaj Pooja
Published: November 2020

Objective

Bleeding is one of the main complications of transbronchial lung biopsy (TBBx) more so with conditions such as azotaemia and coagulopathy. Baseline hypoxia worsens the consequences of TBBx bleeding and can lead to escalation of care. In our experience, TBBx performed through a guide sheath (GS) using it as an extended working channel (EWC) helps minimize bleeding risk. We hypothesized that the EWC produces a tamponade effect in the close vicinity of the biopsy site, both reducing bleeding risk and restricting bleeding to a smaller segment. In this study, we assessed the impact of an additional EWC in high-risk (HR) patients undergoing TBBx, to reduce bleeding and enhance safety.

Methods

Retrospective study between January 2014 and December 2018 looking at the risk of bleeding following TBBx performed through a GS (EWC) in patients at high risk for bleeding-related complications. Bleeding incidence and consequent hypoxic events requiring escalation of care were noted. The specimen diagnostic yield was also analyzed. SPSS statistics were used—data are reported as mean and standard deviation for continuous variables, and number and percentage for discrete variables.

Results

Eight hundred four TBBxs were performed during the study period, and 105 (13.1%) procedures were done in the HR individuals using a GS as an EWC. No significant bleeding requiring escalation of care was seen with the use of EWC-GS. Histopathology revealed adequate sampling in all cases.

Conclusions

A GS as an EWC was used to reduce the bleeding risk, consequent hypoxia, and prevent escalation of care in TBBx in HR patients. Adequate tissue was obtained without any complications. Though prospective, randomized, multicenter trials using an EWC in HR-TBBx are important, they are challenging to do due to the HR population under study.
Generating a New Outcome Variable Using Mixed Methods in a Randomized Controlled Trial: The Caregiver Study—An Advance Care Planning Investigation
Authors: Van Scoy Lauren Jodi , Green Michael J. , Creswell John , Thiede Elizabeth , Wiegand Debra , La In Seo , Lipnick Daniella , Johnson Rhonda , Dimmock Anne E. , Foy Andrew , Lehman Erik , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Levi Benjamin H.
Published: November 2020

The use of mixed methods research in intervention trials mostly centers around using quantitative data to assess primary outcomes and qualitative data primarily for exploratory purposes, to supplement, and/or explain quantitative findings. We describe a novel mixed methods procedure that generates an integrated outcome variable used to reexamine unexpected findings that resulted from an advance care planning interventional randomized controlled trial. The integrated outcome variable helped explain apparent anomalies in study data that resulted from analyzing quantitative or qualitative data independently. The methodology outlined in this article provides a useful mixed methodological contribution by illustrating steps that may be taken by researchers seeking a more meaningful way to integrate qualitative and quantitative data to form intervention variables in trials.
Analysis and experiment of HMT stationary shift control considering the effect of oil bulk modulus
Authors: Li Xueliang , Zhang Lu , Yang Shujun , Liu Nan
Published: November 2020

In order to improve the shift quality of hydro-mechanical continuously variable transmission, the effect of tangent bulk modulus and different control methods on the shift quality were analyzed. Theoretical analysis and experimental study on the tangent bulk modulus of oil were carried out to obtain the effect law of air content on the tangent bulk modulus of oil. A four-cavity model of a closed hydraulic circuit was established based on a two-stage arithmetic type hydro-mechanical transmission. By means of simulation analysis and experimental study, the effect of the tangent bulk modulus of oil on the shift quality is studied. The lean control method of reasonably controlling displacement ratio and prolonging the reverse time of load torque is put forward. The results show that this method can reduce the fluctuations of the speed of the fixed displacement motor and the oil pressure of the original low-pressure side. This method can also improve the shift quality and provide reference for the study of the shift process of hydro-mechanical continuously variable transmission.
Strain-based fault detection of bolted truss structures using machine learning
Authors: Bang Hyejin , Lee Tae Hyun , Lee Gi-Chun , Lee Yong-Bum , Baek Dong-Cheon
Published: November 2020

The initial design of baggage-lifting machine structures is primarily based on safety and reliability, but they are often damaged because of unforeseen circumstances and overloads. In this study, a machine learning–based logistic regression method for detecting structural damage to bolted truss structures during field work is proposed. Multiple strain gauges attached to the front of the truss model record the amount of deformation occurring in the member when the vertical load generated at the end of the model is applied. In this process, the scatter or error caused by the sample is analyzed, and the data processing method is presented. Experimental results demonstrate that this method provides a good quantitative basis for fault detection, and it can be effectively applied to partial representative data when handling large datasets.
Deep aligned feature extraction for collaborative-representation-based face classification with group dictionary selection
Authors: Mao Li , Zhang Delei , Chen Youming , Zhang Tao , Song Xiaoning
Published: November 2020

Face recognition plays an important role in many robotic and human–computer interaction systems. To this end, in recent years, sparse-representation-based classification and its variants have drawn extensive attention in compress sensing and pattern recognition. For image classification, one key to the success of a sparse-representation-based approach is to extract consistent image feature representations for the images of the same subject captured under a wide spectrum of appearance variations, for example, in pose, expression and illumination. These variations can be categorized into two main types: geometric and textural variations. To eliminate the difficulties posed by different appearance variations, the article presents a new collaborative-representation-based face classification approach using deep aligned neural network features. To be more specific, we first apply a facial landmark detection network to an input face image to obtain its fine-grained geometric information in the form of a set of 2D facial landmarks. These facial landmarks are then used to perform 2D geometric alignment across different face images. Second, we apply a deep neural network for facial image feature extraction due to the robustness of deep image features to a variety of appearance variations. We use the term deep aligned features for this two-step feature extraction approach. Last, a new collaborative-representation-based classification method is used to perform face classification. Specifically, we propose a group dictionary selection method for representation-based face classification to further boost the performance and reduce the uncertainty in decision-making. Experimental results obtained on several facial landmark detection and face classification data sets validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Killing Time: Law Like Death
Authors: Golder Ben
Published: November 2020

This article takes Peter Fitzpatrick’s writings on the modern death penalty, published over roughly a decade from the late 1990s, as a point of departure for considering wider themes in his scholarship, and reflecting on its significance and particular qualities. In these texts we see Fitzpatrick, as a legal theorist, engaging with a pressing political issue of, literally, life, death and the law. I take this textual archive and show how it illustrates Fitzpatrick’s mode of critique, his form of poststructural legal normativity, and the kinds of resistant and responsiveness-generating legal subjects he encourages us to be.
The age, height, and body mass of Olympic swimmers: A 50-year review and update
Authors: Mallett Adam , Bellinger Phillip , Derave Wim , Osborne Mark , Minahan Clare
Published: November 2020

A difficulty in identifying the optimal age, height, and body mass of swimmers is the heterogeneity of the athletes examined (i.e., gender, caliber), the variability in race distance and stroke, and the influence of time. Nonetheless, age, height, and body mass remains the most readily available data of all athlete characteristics, supporting their contribution to the prediction of performance. This review presents the findings of previous studies over the last 50 years and offers new insights by examining data from swimmers competing at the 1968, 1992, and 2016 Olympic Games. Our data investigates gender differences in age, before exploring gender-specific variations in the age, height, and body mass across year, distance, stroke, and caliber. We show that there are differences in swimmers competing at the 2016 compared to the 1968 and 1992 Olympic Games. Today the age of world-class swimmers is independent of gender, race distance and stroke, as well as caliber. Swimmers competing in freestyle are taller and heavier than in butterfly, while height remains associated with performance in some, but not all events in female swimmers. In 2016 the average age, height and body mass of World-class swimmers is 22.7 ± 3.6 and 23.2 ± 23.3 years, 175.1 ± 6.6 cm and 188.3 ± 6.0 cm and 63.8 ± 6.8 and 81.3 ± 7.3 kg for females and males respectively. These findings provide coaches with a new perspective on the optimal age, height, and body mass of world-class female and male swimmers.
An integrated risk index accounting for epistemic uncertainty in probability risk assessment
Authors: Zeng Zhiguo , Bani-Mustafa Tasneem , Flage Roger , Zio Enrico
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we present an integrated framework for quantifying epistemic uncertainty in probabilistic risk assessment. Three types of epistemic uncertainty, that is, completeness, structural and parametric uncertainties, are considered. A maturity model is developed to evaluate the management of these epistemic uncertainties in the model building process. The impact of epistemic uncertainty on the result of the risk assessment is, then, estimated based on the developed maturity model. Then, an integrated risk index is defined to reflect the epistemic uncertainty in the risk assessment results. An indifference method is developed to evaluate the index based on the maturity of epistemic uncertainty management. A case study concerning a nuclear power plant is shown to demonstrate the applicability of the overall modelling framework.
The representation of ‘Others’ in East Asian television advertisements
Authors: Prieler Michael , Ivanov Alex , Hagiwara Shigeru
Published: November 2020

This study conducted a content analysis of 442 television advertisements from Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea to determine their representations of ‘Others’. Findings reveal that in East Asian advertisements, Others are overrepresented, mostly non-celebrities, and depicted in major roles, which is in contrast to previous studies in the United States where ‘Others’ are generally shown in minor or background roles. The results also reveal that Others are predominantly white, demonstrating the importance of whites in these societies and representing some type of racial/ethnic hierarchy. However, Others are also depicted as separate from the majority population. For example, they are usually depicted abroad rather than in a local setting, and they rarely interact with the local population, which sends a message of exclusion and might lead to the conclusion that they do not belong to their respective location. Possible effects and practice implications of these findings are discussed.
The prevalence of asymptomatic carriers of COVID-19 as determined by routine preoperative testing
Authors: Bloom Joshua A , Erlichman Zachary , Tian Tina , Doron Shira , Chen Lilian , Mansur Kristen , Tarnoff Michael E
Published: November 2020

Background:

The coronavirus disease SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has swiftly spread throughout the globe, greatly influencing all aspects of life. As in previous pandemics, concerns for limited resources and a sustainable medical workforce have been on the forefront of infrastructure modifications. Consequently, surgical specialties have needed to consider each surgical case for necessity and safety during the COVID-19 outbreak. At our institution, availability of SARS-CoV-2 assay has allowed preoperative testing of asymptomatic surgical patients.

Aim/Objective:

To better define the prevalence of asymptomatic carriers in a surgical population and to better understand the impact of testing on our personal protective equipment (PPE) supply.

Methods:

We began routine, preoperative testing for all asymptomatic patients coming to our academic medical centre on 30 March 2020. Scheduled surgeries were deemed urgent by the surgeon with a review for appropriateness by a novel surgical committee. A retrospective patient chart review was performed. Emergency surgeries were excluded. Asymptomatic patients with positive test results had their surgeries rescheduled at the discretion of the surgeon and patient. Patients who tested negative underwent surgery with staff using standard PPE.

Results:

Eighty-four asymptomatic surgical patients were tested preoperatively with three (3.6%) testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. Preoperative testing saved 498 N95 respirators over this time period.

Discussion:

This is the first report of routine COVID-19 preoperative testing in an asymptomatic surgical population. Within this population, there is a 3.6% rate of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 carriers. Through this practice, personnel exposure can be minimised and access to PPE can be preserved.
Against the Professorial Odds: Barriers as Building Blocks for Educational Advancement
Authors: McDonald Denise , Baker Sheila , Shulsky Debby
Published: November 2020

This article describes three female professors’ experiences to attain degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate) as first-generation college students (FGCS) and become academics. Their individual stories are shared through narratives, which capture crucial episodes of overcoming challenges. Because completion of a terminal degree by FGCS (of the Baby Boomer generation) is statistically low, these professors are outliers to the norm. Discussion identifies factors that aided the educators in their educational advancement.
BDS as the baseline of solidarity: toward a model of co-struggling with Palestinians in their movement for justice and liberation
Authors: Awad Ramah
Published: November 2020

The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement has made enormous gains for the Palestine solidarity movement by raising political consciousness about Palestine, shifting the public discourse and debate, as well as making inroads into municipal and federal advocacy. BDS has popularized solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for justice and self-determination by offering a means of taking action through a coherent set of tactics and demands and by articulating the movement in universally understood framework of human rights and international law. Whereas BDS has been the dominant strategy for supporting the Palestinian struggle for justice and liberation, it is one method of solidarity among others aimed at growing the abilities of Palestinians to be their own protagonists in the fight for their rights, national aspirations, and return to their homeland. This article argues that to address the conditions subduing Palestinian self-organizing, BDS efforts must be paralleled by additional strategies to bolster Palestinian movement-building and restore broad, participatory Palestinian leadership. Drawing from these experiences and the multiple spaces grappling with this question, the author offers four key ways that Palestine solidarity efforts can further shift from a model of solidarity to a model of co-struggling with Palestinians globally. In doing so, advocates for Palestinian freedoms can more effectively link anti-colonial modes of resistance—those intended to apply pressure to and weaken the colonial regime—with a decolonial praxis that enables Palestinians to cultivate their own methods toward rebuilding their society. Building on BDS as the baseline for solidarity, the author argues that solidarity activists can further strengthen the Palestinian liberation movement by working to reverse the conditions imposed by the Oslo Accords through understanding and confronting Zionism; centering Palestinian political prisoners and refugees in our work; endorsing alternative and independent funding models; and supporting Palestinian community organizing.
Scientific Developments and Clinical Applications Utilizing Chondrons and Chondrocytes with Matrix for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Shah Sarav S. , Mithoefer Kai
Published: November 2020

Injuries to articular cartilage of the knee are increasingly common. The operative management of these focal chondral lesions continues to be problematic for the treating orthopedic surgeon secondary to the limited regenerative capacity of articular cartilage. The pericellular matrix (PCM) is a specialized, thin layer of the extracellular matrix that immediately surrounds chondrocytes forming a unit together called the chondron. The advancements in our knowledge base with regard to the PCM/chondrons as well as interterritorial matrix has permeated and led to advancements in product development in conjunction with minced cartilage, marrow stimulation, osteochondral allograft, and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). This review intends to summarize recent progress in chondrocytes with matrix research, with an emphasis on the role the PCM/extracellular matrix (ECM) plays for favorable chondrogenic gene expression, as a barrier/filtration unit, and in osteoarthritis. The bulk of the review describes cutting-edge and evolving clinical developments and discuss these developments in light of underlying basic science applications. Clinical applications of chondrocytes with matrix science include Reveille Cartilage Processor, Cartiform, and ACI with Spherox (which was recently recommended for the treatment of grade III or IV articular cartilage defects over 2 cm2 by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence [NICE] in the United Kingdom). The current article presents a comprehensive overview of both the basic science and clinical results of these next-generation cartilage repair techniques by focusing specifically on the scientific evolution in each category as it pertains with underlying chondrocytes with matrix theory.
Differentiating the roles of intolerance of uncertainty and negative beliefs about worry across emotional disorders
Authors: Penney Alexander M. , Rachor Geoffrey S. , Deleurme Kendall A.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Researchers have examined intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and negative beliefs about worry (NBW) in emotional disorders. However, the distinct relationships of IU and NBW remain unclear. We examined IU and NBW across emotional disorders, controlling for overlapping symptoms. We also explored prospective and inhibitory IU.

Methods:

A sample of 565 undergraduates completed measures of IU and NBW, as well as measures of generalized anxiety, depression, social anxiety, panic, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive, and illness anxiety disorder symptoms. Regression analyses were used to determine which factors were uniquely associated with symptoms of each disorder.

Results:

Both IU and NBW were associated with generalized anxiety and social anxiety disorder symptoms. IU was also associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms and negatively associated with panic disorder symptoms. NBW was also associated with depression. Neither IU now NBW were associated with post-traumatic stress or illness anxiety disorders. Prospective and inhibitory IU also had differential associations with the emotional disorders.

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that IU and NBW, while transdiagnostic, are differentially associated with emotional disorder symptoms. Our results also support the discriminant validity of prospective and inhibitory IU.
Sociodemographic predictors of attendance at a Scottish pain management programme
Authors: Moore FR , Williams L , Dunbar M
Published: November 2020

We examined relationships between various sociodemographic factors and attendance at the Glasgow Pain Management Programme (n = 2899 from 2011 to 2019). We tested for associations between gender, age and socioeconomic deprivation of patients who were invited to attend, and uptake to a programme when invited, attendance at screening assessment, eligibility, adherence and attendance at 3- and 6-month reviews. Uptake was significantly higher for patients from more affluent areas (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.93–0.99, p = 0.002) and for older patients (95% CI = 0.98–0.99, p = 0.006), although effect sizes were very small. Patients were significantly more likely to be assessed as suitable if they were younger (95% CI = 0.98–0.99, p = 0.013) or female (95% CI = 0.55–0.84, p < 0.001). Attendance at sessions and at 3- and 6-month reviews was higher for patients from more affluent areas (95% CI = 1–1.09, p = 0.001, and 95% CI = 1–1.1, p = 0.044 respectively). We argue that there are multiple potential explanations for these findings and that future work should attempt to determine whether these patterns replicate in other populations and to determine any modifiable causes.
Severe mesenteric ischemia with multiple organ failure in a patient previously treated with a humanized monoclonal antibody against programmed death receptor-1 (pembrolizumab), a case of pembrolizumab associated catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome?
Authors: Mintjens-Jager E M W , Vos M E , Kats-Ugurlu G , Hospers G A P , Rutgers A , van Meurs M
Published: November 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are used in the treatment of different types of tumors including melanoma and non-small cell lung carcinoma. The use of these inhibitors is associated with a broad spectrum of immune-related adverse effects. Here we report a case of a patient admitted to the intensive care unit with multiple organ failure due to catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome following treatment with pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, because of metastatic melanoma. The presented patient had multiple organ failure of lung, gastro-intestinal, renal, and the liver. Vascular thrombosis was confirmed by both imaging (pulmonary embolism on computed tomography–thorax) and histopathological examination of the intestines. In combination with the presence of IgA anti-cardiolipin antibodies and initially IgM anti-cardiolipin antibodies, catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome was suspected. Despite treatment with plasmapheresis and corticosteroids, the patient died due to multiple organ failure. Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome is difficult to recognize and has high mortality rates despite supportive treatment. In this case report, discussion is provided regarding the possible immunological mechanism behind catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome during or after treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. It is important to realize that in modern intensive care unit, more patients with immune-related adverse effects of the treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors will be admitted, because of an increase in the number of patients treated with these checkpoint inhibitors. When these patients are admitted on the intensive care unit, multi-disciplinary consultation is important because of the difficulty of early recognition and optimal treatment of these possible lethal side effects.
Brand equity protection and new geographic dynamics evidence from franchising in Brazil
Authors: Fadairo Muriel , Kaswengi Joseph , Lanchimba Cintya , Silva Bitti Eugênio José
Published: November 2020

The success of franchising contracts may depend on the market. Business format franchising is based on having a common brand name and concept within the chain developed by the franchisor. As intangible assets, all brands and related business concepts do not have the same profitability. Thus, we address the question of spatial organisation impact on franchise contracts managed by the parent brand in the Brazilian market. Within the traditional agency view, the presence of distant retail outlets leads the franchisor to choose a payment mechanism designed to provide incentives to the franchisee; that is, a low royalty rate associated with a high fixed fee. Based on a unique panel dataset, we provide evidence that spatial dispersion has the opposite impact in Brazil. This new insight suggests the need for brand assets protection, decisive in an emerging market context. Moreover, monetary provisions and alternative tools play a critical role in brand maintenance and support.
The birth of sensory power: How a pandemic made it visible?
Authors: Isin Engin , Ruppert Evelyn
Published: November 2020

Much has been written about data politics in the last decade, which has generated myriad concepts such as ‘surveillance capitalism’, ‘gig economy’, ‘quantified self’, ‘algorithmic governmentality’, ‘data colonialism’, ‘data subjects’ and ‘digital citizens’. Yet, it has been difficult to plot these concepts into an historical series to discern specific continuities and discontinuities since the origins of modern power in its three major forms: sovereign, disciplinary and regulatory. This article argues that the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 brought these three forms of power into sharp relief but made particularly visible a fourth form of power that we name ‘sensory power’, which has been emerging since the 1980s. The article draws on early studies of power by Michel Foucault, subsequent studies on biopower and biopolitics that expanded on them, and studies in the past decade that focused on data produced from apps, devices and platforms. Yet, despite its ambition, the article is inevitably an outline of a much larger project.
Emotional intelligence and its relationship with stress coping style
Authors: Fteiha Mohamed , Awwad Narmeen
Published: November 2020

This study investigated the relationship between emotional intelligence and stress coping style in a group of 265 students, using Goleman’s Theory of Emotional Intelligence. Findings indicated highest mean value of emotional intelligence for motivation and empathy. Majority students showed active problem and emotional coping behavior; however, a strong, positive correlation between emotional intelligence and stress coping style was found for the domains associated with Active Emotional and Problem Coping (α ⩽ 0.05). It revealed that students are efficient in utilizing stress coping strategies and recommended that professors should provide guidance to students regarding emotional intelligence and stress coping styles.
Clinical, computed tomographic and histopathological findings in two cats with pulmonary fibrosis of unknown aetiology
Authors: Duffy Eleanor C , Griffin Sally , O’Connell Erin M , Mortier Jeremy R
Published: November 2020

Case series summary

Two cats were presented for further investigation of respiratory signs. One cat had a history of a cough and the other, tachypnoea. In each case, thoracic CT was performed, which revealed a generalised marked reticular pattern in the first cat and focal consolidation of the right caudal lung lobe in the second cat. The first cat was euthanased following completion of the imaging study and a post-mortem examination was performed. The second cat underwent surgical excision of the abnormal lung lobe and survived for 4 years after diagnosis. Histopathology performed on lung tissue removed from each cat was consistent with pulmonary fibrosis.

Relevance and novel information

This small case series adds to the existing literature and highlights the heterogeneous clinical course and variable appearance of pulmonary fibrosis on CT of affected cats. These cases provide evidence that pulmonary fibrosis in cats incorporates a wide spectrum of fibrotic lung disease and demonstrates the possibility for prolonged survival following diagnosis where disease is localised and amenable to surgical resection.
Slash youth in China: From precarious strugglers to successful exemplars
Authors: Wei Ning
Published: November 2020

Slash has become a new phenomenon and practice as a growing number of youth, no longer in long-term employment with clear future security, create a contingent combination of careers. Its recent prevalence in China marks a visible consequence of the national restructuring policy of labor flexibilization over the past decades. Dismantling of the historical norm of full employment, encouragement of flexible digital economy, short-life expectancy of new businesses, and generalized insecurity due to intense competition at individual level, are the major factors contributing to the emergence and expansion of slash youth. Based on empirical and ethnographic evidences, this article identifies the complexity, diversity, and creativity embodied in individual slash experiences, suggesting that slash youth are stratified and they demonstrate differentiated ability to translate uncertainties into opportunities under the condition of individualization. This article is part of the special issue Creative Labour in East Asia.
Prevalence of Coronavirus Antibody Among First Responders in Lubbock, Texas
Authors: Iwuji Kenneth , Islam Ebtesam , Berdine Gilbert , Nugent Kenneth , Test Victor , Tijerina Amanda
Published: November 2020

Background:

The ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has a major impact on first responders. Scarce personal protective equipment (PPE) has forced them to conserve and reuse some of their PPE. The efficacy of these practices in preventing transmission of COVID-19 from patients to first responders is unclear. There are limited data on the prevalence of antibodies specific for COVID-19 exposure in these front-line workers.

Aim:

Our objective was to determine the prevalence of positive immunoglobulin G antibody specific to COVID-19 among first responders in Lubbock, Texas.

Methods:

Blood samples were collected on 683 asymptomatic first responders who work in Lubbock, Texas and the surrounding area, after informed consents were signed. IgG antibody to SARS-CoV-2 was measured using Abbott’s SARS-CoV-2 IgG Reagent Kit in combination with the SARS-CoV-2 IgG Calibrator Kit on the Abbott’s ARCHITECT i1000SR analyzer.

Results:

The prevalence of IgG specific antibodies to COVID-19 was 0.73%, five of the 683 participants tested positive. Four of those who tested positive had no known prior SARS-CoV-2 infection or exposure without adequate PPE.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of IgG specific antibodies to COVID-19 was much lower than expected in our study population despite high sensitivity and specificity of the test reagent. The most likely explanations for this finding include limited exposure, inadequate time for a IgG response, possible clearance of COVID-19 infection locally by the respiratory tract IgA defense system without eliciting a systemic IgG response, and short persistence of IgG antibodies in mild or asymptomatic cases.
A New Method for Computing Letter of Credit Risks
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Hu Ni
Published: November 2020

This study targets problems in the risk assessment and control processes of letter of credit settlements for Chinese export enterprises. It applies the quantitative method of exploratory factor analysis to extract the main factors and uses a confirmatory factor analysis to test the validity these constructs. VENSIM software is used to design the system dynamics causal tree and flowchart of the letter of credit system. The equation sets of DANAMO parameters are then constructed using the software. Finally, through analysis of the system risk fluctuation diagram with system simulation, it offers enterprises advice on how to identify potential risk points to prevent and control letter of credit risks in advance.
User Familiarity and Satisfaction With Food Delivery Mobile Apps
Authors: Choi Ju-Choel
Published: November 2020

The market for food delivery mobile applications (FDMAs) in South Korea has massively expanded due to the increase in both smartphone penetration rate and single-person households, thus marking a phase of severe competition. A deeper understanding among FDMA practitioners of users’ acceptance of FDMAs is required to become more competitive. The technology acceptance model (TAM) is a dominant theory to help illuminate users’ acceptance of new technology. However, users’ familiarity (FAM) and satisfaction (SAT) with new technology has been less studied in the context of FDMA. Based on this background, this study aims to examine the relationships between users’ FAM, perceived ease of use (PEU), perceived usefulness (PU), SAT, and intention to reuse (IR) in the context of FDMAs. With the use of an online-based questionnaire, data were obtained from consumers who have experienced with one of the top-three mobile apps for food delivery in South Korea. Partial least squares structural equation modeling is employed to examine the extended TAM in the Korean FDMA setting. The findings demonstrate that (a) FAM has a positive influence on both PEU and PU; (b) PEU is positively associated with PU; (c) both FAM and PU positively affect SAT, but PEU does not; and (d) FAM, PU, and SAT are the significant antecedents of IR. This study then discusses the findings in terms of academic contributions and suggests practical implications, focusing on marketing strategies that can be usefully adopted by FDMA developers.
Sol–gel-entrapped pH indicator for monitoring pH variations in cementitious materials
Authors: Inserra Barbara , Hayashi Kaname , Marchisio Andrea , Tulliani Jean-Marc
Published: November 2020

Sensors for pH evaluation of concrete were made by a sol–gel process with alizarin yellow as pH indicator. The optical absorbance was measured with a visible spectrophotometer coupled with optical fibers. Results showed that the sensors had good reversibility, reproducibility, and fast response time.
Finite-element analysis of the influence of tibial implant fixation design of total ankle replacement on bone–implant interfacial biomechanical performance
Authors: Yu Jian , Zhang Chao , Chen Wen-Ming , Zhao Dahang , chu Pengfei , Wang Shuo , Huang Jiazhang , Wang Xu , Ma Xin
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

Implant loosening in tibia after primary total ankle replacement (TAR) is one of the common postoperative problems in TAR. Innovations in implant structure design may ideally reduce micromotion at the bone–implant interface and enhance the bone-implant fixation and initial stability, thus eventually prevents long-term implant loosening. This study aimed to investigate (1) biomechanical characteristics at the bone–implant interface and (2) the influence of design features, such as radius, height, and length.

Methods:

A total of 101 finite-element models were created based on four commercially available implants. The models predicted micromotion at the bone–implant interface, and we investigated the impact of structural parameters, such as radius, length, and height.

Results:

Our results suggested that stem-type implants generally required the highest volume of bone resection before implantation, while peg-type implants required the lowest. Compared with central fixation features (stem and keel), peripherally distributed geometries (bar and peg) were associated with lower initial micromotions. The initial stability of all types of implant design can be optimized by decreasing fixation size, such as reducing the radius of the bars and pegs and lowering the height.

Conclusion:

Peg-type tibial implant design may be a promising fixation method, which is required with a minimum bone resection volume and yielded minimum micromotion under an extreme axial loading scenario. Present models can serve as a useful platform to build upon to help physicians or engineers when making incremental improvements related to implant design.
How Does Servant Leadership Behaviour Affect Job Satisfaction? A Study on Indian Academia
Authors: Singh Sonika , Ryhal Piar Chand
Published: November 2020

The importance of and focus on educational leadership have been increasing, but there have been insufficient studies in India testing the role of servant leadership (SL) and its impact on the job satisfaction (JS) of teaching staff. The present study examines the role of the SL behaviour of school principals and its impact on JS. Data were collected from 728 secondary school teachers belonging to Himachal Pradesh, a state of North India, using the multi-stage probability sampling technique. Mean, correlation and structural equation modelling (SEM) were employed in the data analysis to test our hypotheses. Statistical analysis revealed that teachers perceive a moderate level of JS and SL. A significant positive correlation was found between SL and JS, and SL was found to have a positive and significant impact on JS. The squared multiple correlation value ( R2) showed a 57 per cent variance in JS among academic teaching staff. Despite being one of the educationally and economically high-performing states, Himachal Pradesh has not been the focus of educational researchers. The present study contributes to build and add knowledge on SL and JS by exploring the relationship between the two.
Determining the Influence of Private Labels on Sales of National Brands: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Islam Sheikh Basharul , Bhat Suhail Ahmad , Darzi Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: November 2020

Private-label brands (PLBs) are spreading their operations in all product categories and have marked their presence in almost all types of retail formats. They are posing stringent competition to national brands (NBs), be it offline (organized and unorganized) retail or online retail. Besides being favourites of value-conscious Indian consumers, PLBs are becoming a key focus of channel partners as well. In this context, the present research article is aimed at providing insights about how PLBs are able to garner the profit-centric interests of channel partners and how they are affecting the distribution of NBs in the unorganized retail sector. The study is based on information collected through semi-structured interviews with distributors and retailers from Haryana and Punjab. A thematic analysis was performed to draw meaningful inferences from the responses collected through the semi-structured interviews. The results reveal that channel partners’ interest in the high margins of private labels and their interest in maintaining long-term relationships with the latter make NBs vulnerable on parameters such as sales effort investment, in-store visibility, ordering quantity and frequency and numeric distribution. This study provides bases for understanding private label operations in the unorganized retail sector in India.
Technology Intense Workplaces, Boundary Preferences and Work–Life Conflict: Evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Alwis Sulakshana De , Hernvall Patrik
Published: November 2020

Workplaces today are more technologically pervasive than ever before, and communication devices such as smartphones have blurred traditional boundaries between work and non-work spheres of people. In fact, employers need to be mindful about this phenomenon when they have technology-based work expectations from their employees. Within this backdrop, this study attempts to reveal how the technological intensity at workplaces affects work–life conflict of employees who have different boundary preferences. The analysis based on 225 respondents shows that technological intensity is a significant mediator between work–life boundary preferences and work–life conflict of employees. Further, this study validates the findings of prior research based on Western samples on non-Western countries, followed by a discussion on the implications to practice and avenues for future research.
Systemic Bartonellosis Manifesting With Endocarditis and Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Shaikh Gulvahid , Gosmanova Elvira O. , Rigual-Soler Natacha , Der Mesropian Paul
Published: November 2020

Cat scratch disease caused by Bartonella species is mostly benign and self-limiting condition. Systemic infection is uncommon in immunocompetent host. We describe the case of a 66-year-old male who presented with sudden painless left eye blindness and brown-colored urine. Laboratory findings revealed progressively rising serum creatinine in association with nephrotic-range proteinuria at 7 g/day and glomerular hematuria on urinalysis. An echocardiogram demonstrated mitral and tricuspid valve vegetations despite multiple negative blood cultures. The left eye blindness was attributed to retinal artery occlusion from septic valvular embolus. Kidney biopsy showed membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis pattern of injury with “full house” pattern on immunofluorescent staining with subendothelial deposits on electron microscopy. Markedly elevated IgG (immunoglobulin G) titers for B henselae and B quintana were discovered. The patient had several cats at home. Kidney failure rapidly progressed to require hemodialysis. Once the diagnosis of systemic bartonellosis was confirmed, doxycycline (for 4 months) with rifampicin (for 3 months) were initiated. Repeat echocardiogram in 4 months demonstrated a resolution of valvular vegetations; however, the left eye blindness was permanent. In the present case the correct diagnosis of systemic bartonellosis allowed institution of appropriate antibiotic therapy and to also achieve a partial recovery of renal function and to discontinue hemodialysis.
Association Between Hip Rotation and Activation of the Quadriceps and Gluteus Maximus in Male Runners
Authors: Mohammad Walaa S. , Elsais Walaa M.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Although running can provide health benefits, knee joint injuries are frequently reported by recreational runners. To date, the precise mechanism responsible for anterior knee pain remains elusive, and the source of symptoms is debated. Inconsistencies are found in the literature pertaining to the relationship between hip mechanics and activity in the quadriceps and gluteus maximus (GMax) during the running gait.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To investigate the correlations between hip rotation and the activity in the quadriceps and GMax during running. We hypothesized that increased hip rotation is correlated with decreased activity in these muscles.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A cohort of 30 healthy recreational runners volunteered to participate in the study (mean ± SD age, 28.8 ± 5.66 years; height, 1.73 ± 0.05 m; mass, 69 ± 6.3 kg; body mass index, 23.02 ± 1.42 kg/m2). Surface electromyography (EMG) data were obtained from the GMax, vastus medialis obliquus (VMO), and vastus lateralis obliquus (VLO). These data were synchronized with a motion capture system during a level-surface running activity at a speed of 3.2 m/s.

Results:

A significantly strong, negative correlation was found between the hip internal rotation angle and EMG activity of the GMax and the VMO. However, the VLO showed a significant, moderate, and positive correlation of activity with the hip internal rotation angle.

Conclusion:

The present study showed that during level-surface running, decreased GMax activity may be the cause of distal joint injuries and alteration in quadriceps muscle activity.

Clinical Relevance:

Because GMax activity is important for controlling the lower body mechanics during running, evaluating GMax activity and internal hip rotation angle is important to prevent the running-related knee injuries that are linked to quadriceps deficits, such as patellofemoral pain. Additionally, clinicians and trainers should consider strengthening the GMax while rehabilitating running-related knee injuries.
Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcomes for Major Pathologies of the Forefoot, Midfoot, Hindfoot, and Achilles Using PROMIS
Authors: Hu Daniel A. , Nayak Rusheel , Ogunkoya Elijah O. , Patel Milap S. , Kadakia Anish R.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is a newly developed patient-reported outcome that has been validated for the general foot and ankle population and has been applied to a variety of specific foot and ankle procedures. However, there is little data regarding clinical outcomes of patients at a more intermediate subgroup level. Thus, our study utilized PROMIS to provide normative data on pathologic conditions of the foot and ankle and assess postoperative outcomes based on anatomical location.

Methods:

Preoperative and 1-year postoperative PROMIS Physical Function (PF) and Pain Interference (PI) surveys were prospectively collected from a cohort of patients undergoing a foot and ankle procedure at a tertiary medical center. The cohort was split into forefoot (n = 136), midfoot (n = 44), hindfoot (n = 109), and Achilles (n = 62) procedure groups. Paired-t tests were used to compare preoperative versus postoperative outcomes within operative groups, while a 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to detect differences in PROMIS scores between anatomic subgroups.

Results:

Paired t tests indicated that all 4 operative groups had significantly improved PROMIS PF and PI scores preoperatively versus 1 year postoperatively (all P < .001). One-way ANOVA demonstrated that there were no differences in postoperative PROMIS PF and PI scores between anatomic subgroups. A majority of patients achieved the minimal clinically important difference level of improvement in PROMIS PF and PI scores following surgery.

Conclusions:

All 4 operative groups had improvement in physical function and pain outcomes. Additionally, there were no differences in physical function and pain outcomes between operative groups.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.