bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation Z in Thailand
Authors: Farrell Wendy Colleen , Phungsoonthorn Tipnuch
Published: February 2020

Generation Z has been said to have more in common with their global generational cohort than they do with their parents. The 24/7 access to information, through increasingly ubiquitous Internet access, has been credited as the facilitator of the spread of generational values and characteristics. While this may apply to Generation Z in many developed countries, does it apply in developing nations such as Thailand? For example, by the year 2015, only 40 percent of the Thai population had access to the Internet. Thus, this study attempts to understand to what extent proclaimed Generation Z characteristics and values ring true for a segment of Thai youth with the necessary access to and corresponding usage of connected technology. A literature review was conducted of both English and Thai language literature. Thai Generation Z university students were surveyed, and the results were analyzed using structural equation modeling. On the one hand, the results did support an affinity toward technology, on the other hand, it suggested that Thai youth valued and used the technology differently than their generational cohort in the west, especially concerning content creation. Furthermore, they differed from their global cohort in their preference for collectivism. They also differed from national cultural expectations as they showed tendencies toward low power distance. Finally, work values were largely consistent with international generational expectations in that they showed the strongest preference toward intrinsic and altruistic rewards. It will be essential for Human Resources (HR) to communicate these rewards to attract and retain this next generation of employees. This article contributes to the greater cross-cultural management scholarship by filling a gap in understanding the cultural and work values of a generational cohort in Thailand. It does this by highlighting the institutional and cultural setting this cohort came of age in and surveys cohort members to understand their values and preferences.
Atmospheric turbulence model for direct fire ballistics
Authors: Bober Tomas , Recchia Thomas
Published: February 2020

Modern system accuracy studies require high fidelity representations of environmental phenomena in order to accurately predict the down range performance of a gun system. One component of the atmosphere that has not been studied in great detail within the ballistic domain is turbulence. The current portrayal of wind leveraged by system analysis efforts ignores this element of atmospheric motion completely and thus its effects on down range dispersion have not been quantified. As a first step in addressing this deficiency, this study develops a methodology for generating synthetic turbulent wind signals along the flight path of a projectile. This goal is accomplished by integrating the work of several authors, developing techniques to fill knowledge gaps, and tailoring the solution to the direct fire domain. The significant contributions of the presented effort include mean flow direction agnostic spectral functions, provisions to account for the non-homogeneity of turbulence parameters along a trajectory, and a higher fidelity signal generation method than was used in previous work. The new information is applied to a sample engagement scenario in order to demonstrate the realization of the given techniques within the small caliber direct fire domain.
Celebrity or Aesthetics: Interpreting the Billiard Room at the Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut
Authors: Hunnicutt Rachel H. R.
Published: February 2020

This article considers the third-floor Billiard Room at the Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut, as a case study of a historic interior in which curators and educators have prioritized the occupant’s biography over the structure’s aesthetic or architectural merits. The presentation of the Billiard Room is grounded in scientific and material analysis, historical research, and visitor experience. Nonetheless, this approach prioritizes Twain’s reputation above the house’s architectural and aesthetic significance. Such an interpretation is well suited to the Billiard Room, the emotional climax of the house tour and a pilgrimage site for Twain scholars and enthusiasts. This article considers the ways in which the interior has been staged to emphasize atmosphere over authenticity while still presenting the room as a historically accurate restored interior, as well as how museumgoers understand and interact with the space.
Did They Really Wear That? Authenticity and the Construction of Historical Dress-ups
Authors: Mearns Rosalind
Published: February 2020

An experimental archeology framework was used to examine the construction of historical dress-ups at a selection of historic house museums in the southwest of England. Of the twenty properties within the study area, thirteen were found to have dress-up installations with volunteers most commonly constructing the garments. Forty-eight dress-ups from six properties were then selected for further investigation. All of these garments were found to have made only limited reference to archeological and historical evidence in their construction. This then distorted their ability to authentically represent clothing from the past. Using these results, the challenges surrounding historical dress-ups will be explored and a new set of practical guidelines for their construction will be proposed.
From Suffragist Shrine to Reformer’s Home: The Evolving Interpretation of the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
Authors: Furlano Michelle
Published: February 2020

In 1945, a women’s organization—Susan B. Anthony Memorial Incorporated (SBAM)—purchased and restored Susan B. Anthony’s former home in Rochester, New York. Contemporary historic house preservation practices, the founder’s political motives, and the desire to shape and celebrate a women’s history centered on women’s suffrage influenced the house’s restoration. The initial interpretation idolized Anthony, presented her as a single-issue reformer, and overlooked the lives of other household members and the complexities of the women’s rights movement. In the past seventy-five years, the house evolved from a shrine to Anthony and the suffrage movement to interpreting Anthony as a reformer supported by her family. Today, the house interprets Anthony’s lived experiences and relationships and the lives of other household members. The house humanizes Anthony by interpreting her multifaceted reform work. Finally, the house extends past enshrining the women’s suffrage movement, broadening its definition of the women’s rights movement, and connecting historic civil rights battles to present-day struggles.
Early Versus Routine Stoma Closure in Patients With Colorectal Resection: A Meta-Analysis of 7 Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Guo Yinyin , Luo Yanxin , Zhao Hui , Bai Liangliang , Li Juan , Li Laiyuan
Published: February 2020

Background. A substantial proportion of patients undergoing colorectal surgery receive a temporary stoma, and the timing for stoma closure remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of early stoma closure (ESC) compared with routine stoma closure (RSC) after colorectal surgery. Methods. We comprehensively searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials that compared ESC and RSC after colorectal surgery. Results. A total of 7 randomized controlled trials with 814 enrolled patients were identified for this meta-analysis. There were no significant differences between the ESC and RSC groups regarding the complications of stoma closure (26.8% and 16.6%, respectively; odds ratio [OR]: 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.89-1.90; P = .17). A subgroup analysis was conducted by Clavien-Dindo grade of complication, and no significant difference was observed in any subgroup ( P > .05). However, the ESC group had a significantly higher risk of wound complications than the RSC group (17.6% and 7.8%, respectively; OR: 2.61; 95% CI: 1.43-4.76; P = .002), and the RSC group had more cases of small bowel obstruction than the ESC group (3.1% and 8.4%, respectively; OR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.15-0.87; P = .02). Conclusions. ESC is a safe and effective therapeutic approach in patients who have undergone colorectal surgery; it is associated with a reduced risk of bowel obstruction but a higher risk of wound complications.
How Close Are the Volar Wrist Ligaments to the Distal Edge of the Pronator Quadratus? An Anatomical Study
Authors: Tedesco Liana J. , Wu Chia H. , Strauch Robert J.
Published: February 2020

Background: This cadaveric study defines the interval distance between the proximal insertion of the volar wrist ligaments and the distal edge of the pronator quadratus on the distal radius. It is important to be aware of this distance during surgical dissection for placement of volar locking plates for wrist fractures. Disruption of the volar wrist ligament insertion may have adverse biomechanical consequences such as carpal instability, which can lead to pain and eventually wrist arthritis. Methods: Thirteen cadaveric wrists were dissected using the trans-flexor carpi radialis volar approach to identify relevant anatomy. The distance between the distal border of the pronator quadratus and the most proximal insertion of the volar wrist ligaments was measured. Results: The average distance between the pronator quadratus and the proximal insertion of the volar wrist ligaments was 5 mm, with a standard deviation of 2 mm. Conclusions: The volar wrist ligaments insert quite near the distal end of the pronator quadratus. Surgeons should be cognizant of the proximity of the volar wrist ligaments and be judicious with subperiosteal stripping of the distal fragment during volar plating procedures.
Reconstruction of Basic Hand Function by a Free Osteocutaneous Spare-Part Flap From the Lower Leg After Septicemia: A Case Report
Authors: Vogt Peter Maria , Mett Tobias R. , Bingoel Alperen S. , Jokuszies Andreas , Krezdorn Nicco
Published: February 2020

Background: Spare-part surgery is widely accepted and offers an option in extremely traumatized patients for reconstructive maneuvers. Standardized techniques are lacking, and the therapy needs to fit the patient’s clinic. Materials and Methods: In a woman with necrosis of almost all extremities due to septic infection, we used the lower leg as a free osteocutaneous flap to reconstruct a basic hand function after amputation. The fibula segment was buried alongside the remaining first metacarpal bone. On the hand stump, 2 short metacarpals were lengthened using the remaining 2 metacarpals as osteovascular on-top plasties. The flap was microsurgically anastomosed end-to-side to the ulnar artery. After 3 months, the buried fibula was trimmed to the necessary thumb length and fixed to the local metacarpal I stump. Secondary procedures were performed to deepen the first web space. Results: The patient is now able to manage her daily life. Also, she is able to put on her prosthesis on both legs and walk without aids. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first description of successful microvascular transfer of an osteocutaneous free flap from an amputated lower leg of this size and could present a valuable technique for other cases.
Performance prediction of loop-type wind turbine
Authors: Jeon Wonyoung , Park Jeanho , Lee Seungro , Jung Youngguan , Kim Yeesock , Seo Youngjin
Published: February 2020

An experimental and analytical method to evaluate the performance of a loop-type wind turbine generator is presented. The loop-type wind turbine is a horizontal axis wind turbine with a different shaped blade. A computational fluid dynamics analysis and experimental studies were conducted in this study to validate the performance of the computational fluid dynamics method, when compared with the experimental results obtained for a 1/15 scale model of a 3 kW wind turbine. Furthermore, the performance of a full sized wind turbine is predicted. The computational fluid dynamics analysis revealed a sufficiently large magnitude of external flow field, indicating that no factor influences the flow other than the turbine. However, the experimental results indicated that the wall surface of the wind tunnel significantly affects the flow, due to the limited cross-sectional size of the wind tunnel used in the tunnel test. The turbine power is overestimated when the blockage ratio is high; thus, the results must be corrected by defining the appropriate blockage factor (the factor that corrects the blockage ratio). The turbine performance was corrected using the Bahaj method. The simulation results showed good agreement with the experimental results. The performance of an actual 3 kW wind turbine was also predicted by computational fluid dynamics.
Interim injunctions and working of patents: A short note from India
Authors: Rathod Sandeep K.
Published: February 2020

The article looks at how jurisprudence has evolved in Indian courts on granting or refusing injunctions to patentees, especially when such patentees are not working/commercially using their patented product in India. The author also presents his views on the recent Eisai v. Dr Reddys case.
The influence of birth quartile, maturation, anthropometry and physical performances on player retention: Observations from an elite football academy
Authors: Patel Rickesh , Nevill Alan , Smith Tina , Cloak Ross , Wyon Matthew
Published: February 2020

Understanding the factors that influence player retention within elite youth football can be used to enhance current practices. This study investigated an English Category 1 academy to determine if birth quartile, somatic maturity, anthropometric and physical performance characteristics are associated with player retention across the developmental pathway. Birth dates of 355 elite players from Under 11 (U11) to U21 groups were categorised into birth quartiles, and logistic regression (odds ratio) analysis was used to determine the differences in retention. Multilevel modelling compared somatic maturity, anthropometry, countermovement jump, sprint time (10 and 30 m), agility T-test and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 or 2 performance between retained and dropout players. Logistic regression (odds ratio) analysis revealed no significant differences between birth quartiles for the likelihood of being retained across age groups. Multilevel modelling revealed that retained players were typically older, advanced in maturity and superior in body size and physical performances compared to dropouts, with small to medium effect sizes typically observed. This study indicates that within a highly selective cohort of young football players, somatic maturity, anthropometric and physical performance characteristics, but not birth quartile, distinguish individuals that are subsequently retained or dropout in an age group-dependent manner. Youth football organisations should seek to implement multidisciplinary and dynamic talent selection and retention strategies to prevent inappropriate discrimination and loss of talented young players.
Formation of a Sterically Crowded 1,6,6αλ4-Triselenapentalene and 4H-Selenopyran-4-selones Fused with Two Bornane Skeletons Through the Reaction of d-Camphor p-Toluenesulfonylhydrazone With a Base and Elemental Selenium
Authors: Shimada Kazuaki , Aoyagi Shigenobu , Takikawa Yuji
Published: February 2020

Reaction of d-camphor p-toluenesulfonylhydrazone with t-butoxide and elemental selenium in dimethylformamide at an elevated temperature afforded a stable compound having a unique 1,6,6αλ4-triselenapentalene ring and 4 H-selenopyran-4-selones along with dialkenyl diselenide, dibornylenes, and 1,2,5-triselenepin, and the structural confirmation of these products were carried out by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The sterically crowded 1,6,6aλ4-triselenapentalene ring fused with two bornane sleketons was stable enough under aerobic exposure and was inactive toward sodium borohydride reduction but was converted into 1,2-diselenole derivative through m-chloroperbenzoic acid oxidation.
Composition of fecal microbiota in low-set rectal cancer patients treated with FOLFOX
Authors: Li Jing , Li Jingtao , Lyu Na , Ma Yue , Liu Fei , Feng Yuqing , Yao Li , Hou Zhiyong , Song Xiaofeng , Zhao Hongchuan , Li Xiaoya , Wang Yingdian , Xiao Cheng , Zhu Baoli
Published: February 2020

Background:

FOLFOX treatment is a method used widely to reduce tumor size in low-set rectal cancer, with variable clinical results. FOLFOX agents comprise a mixture of oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil, the efficacy of which might be modulated by the gut microbiome in humans. This study aimed to determine whether the bowel microbiota is a factor that influences FOLFOX treatment.

Methods:

To investigate the role of gut microbiota during FOLFOX treatment, we carried out comprehensive metagenomic and metabolomic analyses on 62 fecal samples collected from 37 low-set rectal cancer patients. A set of 31 samples was collected before the patients underwent treatment; another 31 samples were obtained after the treatment was completed. Among these samples, 50 were paired samples collected before and after FOLFOX treatment. The patients were divided into responder and nonresponder groups according to the treatment outcome. Metagenomic sequencing was performed on these fecal samples. Diverse bacterial taxa were identified by MetaGeneMark, Soapaligner, and DIAMOND; microbiotal data analyses were carried out in the R environment. Differences in microbial taxa and metagenomic linkage groups were observed in multiple comparative analyses.

Results:

The gut microbiota was altered after treatment. Compared with before treatment, the changes in bacterial diversity and microbiotal composition after treatment were more apparent in the responder group than in the nonresponder group. Bacterial species analysis revealed a group of gut bacteria in multiple comparisons, with a group of eight specific species being associated with the outcome of FOLFOX treatment. Responders and nonresponders before treatment were clearly separated based on this bacterial subset. Finally, the metagenomic linkage group network and metabolomic analyses based on the genomic data confirmed a more significant change in the gut microbiota during FOLFOX treatment in the responder group than in the nonresponder group.

Conclusions:

Overall, our results describe a dynamic process of gut microbiotal changes from the start to the end of FOLFOX treatment, and verified a close relationship between microbiota and treatment outcome. Recognition of the significance of microbiotal intervention before FOLFOX treatment for low-set rectal cancer may improve the effects of these agents.
Vision Screening in Infants Attending Immunization Clinics in a Developing Country
Authors: Jac-Okereke Chinwe Cynthia , Jac-Okereke Chukwunonso Azubuike , Ezegwui Ifeoma Regina , Okoye Obiekwe
Published: February 2020

Background: Vision screening in infants is an important part of the medical care of children as some eye abnormalities, if not treated in the first few months or years of life, can lead to irreversible vision loss. Objective: The objective of this cross-sectional, descriptive study was to identify ocular anomalies among infants attending immunization clinics in Nigeria and refer promptly and appropriately. Methodology: Infants were screened across 6 immunization clinics. Screening activities included relevant ocular history, vision assessment, external ocular examination, ocular motility, Hirschberg’s test, pupil examination, and the red reflex test. Infants with abnormal findings were referred for comprehensive eye examination. Result: Of the 142 infants who underwent vision screening, 29 were referred. These referrals were either as a result of ocular abnormalities (n = 22) or presence of risk factors from history (n = 7). The prevalence of ocular abnormalities was 15.5% and neonatal conjunctivitis (38%), was the commonest ocular abnormality found. Others were bacterial conjunctivitis (14%), nasolacrimal duct obstruction (14%), strabismus (14%), capillary hemangiomas (10%), iris nevi (5%), and vernal keratoconjunctivitis (5%). Of the 7 infants referred based on history alone, 6 (85.7%) had a history of prematurity. Conclusion: Conjunctivitis, strabismus, congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction, and capillary hemangioma are some of the prevalent disorders seen in infants at immunization clinics in Nigeria. Babies at risk of retinopathy of prematurity (preterm birth and oxygen therapy) can be identified. Immunization clinics can serve as good points of vision screening for infants in developing countries to facilitate prompt referral and treatment.
Complications of Bioabsorbable Tibial Interference Screws After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Pediatric and Adolescent Athletes
Authors: Kramer Dennis E. , Kalish Leslie A. , Kocher Mininder S. , Yen Yi-Meng , Micheli Lyle J. , Heyworth Benton E.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Interference screw fixation using bioabsorbable implants has become the most common form of tibial-sided graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Complications related to implant use in the pediatric and adolescent population have not been well studied.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze the complications associated with tibial bioabsorbable interference screw use in adolescents after ACLR. We hypothesized that complication rates would be low (<5%) and that different screw types would have similar complication rates and clinical outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Included in this study were patients aged ≤18 years who underwent ACLR with a bioabsorbable tibial interference screw between 2000 and 2011 at a single institution. The subpopulation with screw-related symptoms or complications were identified through chart review. The following 2 outcomes were considered: screw-related symptoms and secondary surgery related to the screw. Multivariable logistic regression was used for adjusted analysis of any screw-related problem.

Results:

There were 925 ACLR procedures in 858 patients (mean age, 15.7 years; range, 10-18 years) who met inclusion criteria. The median follow-up period was 32.0 months. Of the 925 knees, 89 (9.6%) developed a screw-related problem. In 44 (4.8%) cases, no surgery was required; in 45 (4.9%) cases, surgery for a screw-related problem occurred at a median of 24 months postoperatively. The most common surgical indication was pain at the tibial screw site (42/45, 93%), followed by intra-articular screw issues (3/45, 7%). In adjusted analysis, ACLR procedure performed by a “low-volume” ACL surgeon was the only significant predictor identified. After screw removal surgery, 25 of 27 (93%) patients with at least 12 months of follow-up had complete resolution of screw site symptoms, 18 of 23 (78%) evaluable patients returned to sports, while 8 of 27 (30%) patients underwent additional surgeries, 7 of which were unrelated to the screw procedure.

Conclusion:

The rate of clinical sequelae from bioabsorbable tibial interference screws was surprisingly high, with symptoms arising after approximately 1 of 10 ACLRs in adolescents. Reoperation for these symptoms was performed in approximately 5% of the knees in the study, at a median 2 years postoperatively. Most patients were able to return to sports after screw removal surgery.
Nonverbal Communication and Writing Deficiencies of Graduates: Research by Undergraduates for Undergraduates
Authors: Hastings Sally O. , Aponte Sandra , Valverde Esther , Gristock Catherine , Fraser Rebecka , Missigman Michelle , Bicasan Jordan , Rosas Luisa
Published: February 2020

Effective organizational socialization demands soft skill competence. This article advances two goals: (a) explore the inclusion of undergraduate researchers in the scholarship of teaching and learning research and (b) present research findings on employer perceptions of new college graduates’ communication skills. The research team used a rules approach to explore employer perceptions of nonverbal communication skills for new college graduates, such as commonly violated rules. Four key findings relating to rule violations in unspoken communication include displaying a lack of interest, inappropriate attire, body art, and writing deficiencies. Suggestions are offered for including undergraduates in this kind of research.
Selections From the ABC 2019 Annual Conference, Detroit, Michigan: Dancin’ in Motown’s Streets to the Beat of My Favorite Assignments
Authors: Whalen D. Joel
Published: February 2020

This article is the first in a two-part series. It features 13 teaching innovations selected from the 60 My Favorite Assignments presented at the 2019 Association for Business Communication’s annual international conference in Detroit, Michigan. Pedagogy presented includes experiential learning methods to teach how to deliver peer feedback, new approaches for incorporating the Internet and social media into learning experiences, and a boost on a classic topic, ethics.
Do People in Conservative States Really Watch More Porn? A Hierarchical Analysis
Authors: Perry Samuel L. , Whitehead Andrew L.
Published: February 2020

Recent studies have found that state-level religious and political conservatism is positively associated with various aggregate indicators of interest in pornography. Such studies have been limited, however, in that they either did not include data measuring actual consumption patterns and/or did not include data on individuals (risking the ecological fallacy). This study overcomes both limitations by incorporating state-level data with individual-level data and a measure of pornography consumption from a large nationally representative survey. Hierarchical linear regression analyses show that, in the main, state-level religious and political characteristics do not predict individual-level pornography consumption, and individual-level religiosity and political conservatism predict less recent pornography consumption. However, interactions between individual-level evangelical identity and state-level political conservatism indicate that evangelicals who live in more politically conservative states report the highest rates of pornography consumption. These findings thus provide more nuanced support for previous research linking religious and political conservatism with greater pornography consumption.
Management of Suture Penetration in Combined Vitrectomy and Scleral Buckle Surgery
Authors: Najafi Mehdi , Mammo Danny A. , Emerson Geoffrey G.
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate the surgical outcome of deep or full-thickness suture penetration during combined pars plana vitrectomy and scleral buckle (PPV/SB) surgery.

Methods:

Clinical data of patients who underwent PPV/SB for retinal detachment in our practice between June 2017 and April 2019 were reviewed. Cases with full-thickness scleral penetration were identified. Data including initial presentation, intraoperative complications, and management were collected. Long-term surgical outcome, complications, and recurrent detachment were determined.

Results:

Twenty-three cases with evidence of suture penetration were identified. In none of the cases the penetrated suture was visible in the subretinal space. The suture was replaced in cases with persistent leakage through the penetration site or when the surgical plan involved silicone oil insertion. Subretinal hemorrhage was noted during vitrectomy in 7 (30%) patients. The subretinal hemorrhage migrated to the macula in 2 (9%) cases and was drained through a posterior retinotomy. Retinal incarceration was noted in 4 (17%) cases and was released using a focal retinotomy in 2 (9%)cases to reattach the retina. Late complications included epiretinal membrane in 6 (26%) and recurrent detachment occurred in 2 (9%) patients. Final anatomical success was achieved in all patients.

Conclusions:

We propose new principles in the management of suture penetration during combined PPV/SB surgery. In the absence of a visible penetrated suture, suture replacement is required when there is profuse leakage through the penetration site or if silicone oil is used as tamponade. We recommend removal of submacular hemorrhage through a posterior retinotomy. The incarcerated retina can be flattened using release retinotomies.
Risk-targeted alternatives to deterministic ground motion caps in U.S. seismic provisions
Authors: Stewart Jonathan P , Luco Nicolas , Hooper John D , Crouse C B
Published: February 2020

Since their inception over 20 years ago, the maximum considered earthquake ground motion maps in U.S. building codes have capped probabilistic values with deterministic ground motions from characteristic earthquakes on known active faults. This practice has increasingly been called into question both because of spatially non-uniform risk levels that are produced (risk being higher mainly in coastal California) and practical difficulties in defining characteristic earthquakes from recent earthquake rupture forecast models. We describe two proposals developed to enable phase-out of deterministic caps. One approach modestly increases collapse risk targets nationwide based on recent information on return periods of characteristic earthquakes on major central and eastern U.S. seismic sources; adoption of this approach would remove the perceived need for caps in California. The second approach uses geographically varying collapse risk targets, being higher near the highly active faults in California and unchanged elsewhere. Neither approach was adopted for the 2020 National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program recommended seismic Provisions for new building structures, but they are described in a Part 3 document to accompany the Provisions and Commentary.
What Makes a Competent International Project Manager in Emerging and Developing Countries?
Authors: Li Ying , Sun Tao , Shou Yongyi , Sun Hua
Published: February 2020

This study explores what makes a competent international project manager in emerging and developing countries by applying content analysis and multidimensional scaling method on the reports of project managers nominated by a Chinese nonprofit organization. The results indicate that international project manager competences can be understood from an efficiency-effectiveness−oriented perspective and an input-output−focused perspective. Four competence sets are identified, including fundamental knowledge and skills, goals-oriented competences, uncertainty and change management competences, and stakeholder management competences. The findings contribute to competence research in the international project context and provide insight for companies and individuals on career and competence development.
A structure hierarchy for silicate minerals: chain, ribbon, and tube silicates
Authors: Day Maxwell C. , Hawthorne Frank C.
Published: February 2020

A structure hierarchy is developed for chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicate based on the connectedness of one-dimensional polymerisations of (TO4)n−tetrahedra, where T = Si4+plus P5+, V5+, As5+, Al3+, Fe3+, B3+, Be2+, Zn2+and Mg2+. Such polymerisations are described by ageometrical repeat unit(with ngtetrahedra) and atopological repeat unit(or graph) (with ntvertices). The connectivity of the tetrahedra (vertices) in the geometrical (topological) repeat units is denoted by the expressioncTr(cVr) wherecis the connectivity (degree) of the tetrahedron (vertex) andris the number of tetrahedra (vertices) of connectivity (degree)cin the repeat unit. ThuscTr=1Tr12Tr23Tr34Tr4(cVr=1Vr12Vr23Vr34Vr4) represents all possible connectivities (degrees) of tetrahedra (vertices) in the geometrical (topological) repeat units of such one-dimensional polymerisations. We may generate all possiblecTr(cVr) expressions for chains (graphs) with tetrahedron (vertex) connectivities (degrees)c= 1 to 4 wherer= 1 tonby sequentially increasing the values ofcandr, and by ranking them accordingly. The silicate (sensu lato) units of chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicate minerals are identified and associated with the relevantcTr(cVr) symbols. Following description and association with the relevantcTr(cVr) symbols of the silicate units in all chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicate minerals, the minerals are arranged into decreasing O:T ratio from 3.0 to 2.5, an arrangement that reflects their increasing structural connectivity. Considering only the silicate component, the compositional range of the chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicate minerals strongly overlaps that of the sheet-silicate minerals. Of the chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicates and sheet silicates with the same O:T ratio, some have the samecVrsymbols (vertex connectivities) but the tetrahedra link to each other in different ways and are topologically different. The abundance of chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicate minerals decreases as O:T decreases from 3.0 to 2.5 whereas the abundance of sheet-silicate minerals increases from O:T = 3.0 to 2.5 and decreases again to O:T = 2.0. Some of the chain-, ribbon- and tube-silicate minerals have more than one distinct silicate unit: (1) vinogradovite, revdite, lintisite (punkaruaivite) and charoite have mixed chains, ribbons and/or tubes; (2) veblenite, yuksporite, miserite and okenite have clusters or sheets in addition to chains, ribbons and tubes. It is apparent that some chain-ribbon-tube topologies are favoured over others as of the ~450 inosilicate minerals, ~375 correspond to only four topologically unique graphs, the other ~75 minerals correspond to ~46 topologically unique graphs.
“This perfume makes me sick, but I like it.” Representative survey on health effects associated with fragrances
Authors: Klaschka Ursula
Published: February 2020

Background

Fragranced consumer products—such as cleaning supplies, laundry products, perfumes, and air fresheners—have been associated with adverse effects on personal health and with subsequent societal effects. This study investigates self-reported effects associated with exposures to fragranced consumer products in Germany. Using a nationally representative population-based sample (n = 1102), data were collected in March 2019 using an online survey of adults in Germany. Special questions allowed to differentiate the answers given by various vulnerable subgroups of the general population with the intention to better understand their specific situations.

Results

One out of five persons (19.9%) indicates to be fragrance-sensitive. More than half of these persons (55.3%) report respiratory problems and more than a third of them (35.6%) declare mucosal problems. Three out of four autists report to be fragrance-sensitive. Half of the general population (55.6%) think of products with natural fragrance ingredients to be healthier than products with synthetic fragrance ingredients and do not know that this is a wrong assumption. Even more people who report adverse health effects have this wrong impression. People who describe negative health effects caused by fragrances indicate to be exposed by their own use to a similar or even higher extent (up to 98.6%) compared to the general population (96.9%). Slightly more men say that they read the references to the products to get information about the fragrance ingredients compared to women. Three quarters of the population use fragrances to feel more attractive, but still 7.6% report respiratory problems when exposed to fragrances.

Conclusions

The high number of individuals who report to experience health problems upon exposure to fragranced products needs to be taken serious and further actions are urgent. Present risk communication measures do not seem to be sufficient to induce appropriate risk reduction behavior in affected persons.
Association of pulse rate with outcomes in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kurgansky Katherine E. , Schubert Petra , Parker Rachel , Djousse Luc , Riebman Jerome B. , Gagnon David R. , Joseph Jacob
Published: February 2020

Background

In a real-world setting, the effect of pulse rate measured at the time of diagnosis and serially during follow-up and management, on outcomes in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), has not been well-studied. Furthermore, how beta-blockade use in a real-world situation modifies this relation between pulse rate and outcomes in HFrEF is not well-known. Hence, we identified a large, national, real-world cohort of HFrEF to examine the association of pulse rate and outcomes.

Methods

Using Veterans Affairs (VA) national electronic health records we identified incident HFrEF cases between 2006 and 2012. We examined the associations of both baseline and serially measured pulse rates, with mortality and days hospitalized per year for heart failure and for any cause, using crude and multivariable Cox proportional hazards and Poisson or negative binomial models, respectively. The exposure was examined as continuous, dichotomous, and categorical. Post-hoc analyses addressed the interaction of pulse rate and beta-blocker target dose.

Results

We identified 51,194 incident HFrEF cases (67 ± 12 years, 98% male, 77% white. A significant positive, near linear relationship was observed for both baseline and serially measured pulse rates with all-cause mortality, all-cause hospitalization and heart failure hospitalization after adjusting for covariates including beta-blocker use. Patients who had a pulse rate ≥ 70 bpm in the past 6 months had 36% (95% CI: 31–42%), 25% (95% CI: 19–32%), and 51% (95% CI: 33–72%) increased rates of mortality, all-cause hospitalization, and heart failure hospitalization, respectively, compared to patients with pulse rates < 70 bpm. A minority of subjects (15%) were treated with guideline directed beta blockade ≥50% of recommended target dose, among whom better outcomes were seen compared to those who did not achieve target dose in patients with pulse rates both above and below 70 beats per minute.

Conclusions

High pulse rate, both at the time of diagnosis and during follow-up, is strongly associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes in HFrEF patients, independent of the use of beta-blockers. In a real-world setting, the majority of HFrEF patients do not achieve target dose of beta-blockade; greater use of strategies to reduce heart rate may improve outcomes in HFrEF.
The application of unsupervised deep learning in predictive models using electronic health records
Authors: Wang Lei , Tong Liping , Davis Darcy , Arnold Tim , Esposito Tina
Published: February 2020

Background

The main goal of this study is to explore the use of features representing patient-level electronic health record (EHR) data, generated by the unsupervised deep learning algorithm autoencoder, in predictive modeling. Since autoencoder features are unsupervised, this paper focuses on their general lower-dimensional representation of EHR information in a wide variety of predictive tasks.

Methods

We compare the model with autoencoder features to traditional models: logistic model with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Random Forest algorithm. In addition, we include a predictive model using a small subset of response-specific variables (Simple Reg) and a model combining these variables with features from autoencoder (Enhanced Reg). We performed the study first on simulated data that mimics real world EHR data and then on actual EHR data from eight Advocate hospitals.

Results

On simulated data with incorrect categories and missing data, the precision for autoencoder is 24.16% when fixing recall at 0.7, which is higher than Random Forest (23.61%) and lower than LASSO (25.32%). The precision is 20.92% in Simple Reg and improves to 24.89% in Enhanced Reg. When using real EHR data to predict the 30-day readmission rate, the precision of autoencoder is 19.04%, which again is higher than Random Forest (18.48%) and lower than LASSO (19.70%). The precisions for Simple Reg and Enhanced Reg are 18.70 and 19.69% respectively. That is, Enhanced Reg can have competitive prediction performance compared to LASSO. In addition, results show that Enhanced Reg usually relies on fewer features under the setting of simulations of this paper.

Conclusions

We conclude that autoencoder can create useful features representing the entire space of EHR data and which are applicable to a wide array of predictive tasks. Together with important response-specific predictors, we can derive efficient and robust predictive models with less labor in data extraction and model training.
Defining the short-term disease recurrence after loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
Authors: Papalia Nicholas , Rohla Amanda , Tang Selphee , Nation Jill , Nelson Gregg
Published: February 2020

Background

The goal of cervical cancer screening is to identify dysplastic lesions for subsequent excision in order to prevent invasive disease. There is clinical equipoise, on how to best follow women for disease surveillance after treatment with some Canadian provinces exclusively performing colposcopy and some utilizing Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) testing in addition to cervical cytology. Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is used to treat pre-invasive HPV-mediated disease and patients are typically followed for 12 months after disease excision. This study aims to quantify the prevalence of high-grade disease at the time of the second follow-up colposcopy visit, in a practice setting that utilizes laser ablation in addition to LEEP.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, consecutive patient charts were accessed through the electronic medical record system, ARIA, at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, in Calgary, Alberta, from January 2010 to December 2015. Data was extracted and a REDCap database was used to compile pertinent information from charts meeting inclusion criteria. Descriptive and analytic statistics were performed.

Results

Of the 303 patients identified, 221 patients met inclusion criteria. 86% of these patients met discharge criteria from colposcopy after the second follow up visit. 31 (14%) were seen in a subsequent visit for abnormal findings. Of these, 7 (3.2%) underwent further treatment for high-grade disease/Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN 2/3). Of the 31, 23 (10.6%) had a third – negative – visit, resulting in discharge from colposcopy. One patient had a repeat LEEP for persistent Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (LSIL).

Conclusion

In summary, our data demonstrates a prevalence of 3.2% of high-grade disease at the time of a second colposcopic follow up visit after treatment, in a setting which frequently utilizes laser ablation in combination with LEEP, for large lesions. This recurrence rate is consistent with most published literature on recurrence rates of CIN2/3.
The pro-inflammatory marker soluble suppression of tumorigenicity-2 (ST2) is reduced especially in diabetic morbidly obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery
Authors: Demyanets Svitlana , Kaun Christoph , Kaider Alexandra , Speidl Walter , Prager Manfred , Oravec Stanislav , Hohensinner Philipp , Wojta Johann , Rega-Kaun Gersina
Published: February 2020

Background

High soluble suppression of tumorigenicity-2 (sST2) is a marker of poor prognosis in chronic inflammatory conditions. ST2 and its ligand interleukin (IL)-33 are elevated in adipose tissue of obese individuals. We aimed to evaluate circulating sST2 and IL-33 as possible markers of metabolic benefit in morbidly overweight patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) bariatric surgery.

Methods

sST2, IL-33, high sensitive IL-6, high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), leptin, cholesterol metabolism and liver parameters were measured in 80 morbidly obese individuals before and 1 year after bariatric surgery.

Results

sST2 was higher (P = 0.03) in diabetics as compared to individuals without diabetes. Baseline sST2 was also higher in males than in females (P= 0.0002). One year after bariatric surgery, sST2 levels were decreased (median 120, IQR 59–176 pg/mL) as compared to sST2 before surgery (median 141, IQR 111–181, P = 0.0024), and the diabetic group showed most pronounced reduction in sST2 (P = 0.0016). An association was found between sST2 and liver function parameters before and after bariatric surgery, and between baseline sST2 and total cholesterol, triglyceride, total low density lipoprotein (LDL), small dense LDL, Apolipoprotein B as well as with small dense high density lipoproteins (HDL). In the subgroup of diabetic patients positive correlation between IL-33 and sST2 (r = 0.44, P = 0.05) was noticed.

Conclusions

Circulating sST2 is associated with markers of liver functions and lipid metabolism in severely obese patients and a reduction of sST2 was shown after successful bariatric surgery, most prominently in diabetic patients.
Cetirizine use in childhood: an update of a friendly 30-year drug
Authors: Parisi Giuseppe Fabio , Leonardi Salvatore , Ciprandi Giorgio , Corsico Angelo , Licari Amelia , Miraglia del Giudice Michele , Peroni Diego , Salpietro Carmelo , Marseglia Gian Luigi
Published: February 2020

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine, derived from the metabolism of hydroxyzine, highly specific for the H1 receptors, and with marked antiallergic properties. Although its history began more than 30 years ago, it remains one of the most used drugs in children with a leading role in the medical care of children with allergic diseases. Cetirizine use is licensed for paediatric patients for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, and chronic spontaneous urticaria, in Europe in children older than 2 years old and in the USA in children older than 6 months old. This review provides a practical update on the use of cetirizine in children and adolescents.
Natural biased signaling of hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 3 and G protein-coupled receptor 84
Authors: Peters Anna , Rabe Philipp , Krumbholz Petra , Kalwa Hermann , Kraft Robert , Schöneberg Torsten , Stäubert Claudia
Published: February 2020

Background

Medium-chain fatty acids and their 3-hydroxy derivatives are metabolites endogenously produced in humans, food-derived or originating from bacteria. They activate G protein-coupled receptors, including GPR84 and HCA3, which regulate metabolism and immune functions. Although both receptors are coupled to Gi proteins, share at least one agonist and show overlapping tissue expression, GPR84 exerts pro-inflammatory effects whereas HCA3 is involved in anti-inflammatory responses. Here, we analyzed signaling kinetics of both HCA3 and GPR84, to unravel signal transduction components that may explain their physiological differences.

Methods

To study the signaling kinetics and components involved in signal transduction of both receptors we applied the label-free dynamic mass redistribution technology in combination with classical cAMP, ERK signaling and β-arrestin-2 recruitment assays. For phenotypical analyses, we used spheroid cell culture models.

Results

We present strong evidence for a natural biased signaling of structurally highly similar agonists at HCA3 and GPR84. We show that HCA3 signaling and trafficking depends on dynamin-2 function. Activation of HCA3 by 3-hydroxyoctanoic acid but not 3-hydroxydecanoic acid leads to β-arrestin-2 recruitment, which is relevant for cell-cell adhesion. GPR84 stimulation with 3-hydroxydecanoic acid causes a sustained ERK activation but activation of GPR84 is not followed by β-arrestin-2 recruitment.

Conclusions

In summary, our results highlight that biased agonism is a physiological property of HCA3 and GPR84 with relevance for innate immune functions potentially to differentiate between endogenous, non-pathogenic compounds and compounds originating from e.g. pathogenic bacteria.

Graphical abstract