bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Speed Digital Holography for Measuring Time-Dependent Displacement and Vibrations
Authors: Hung Y. Y. , Griffen C. T.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a novel technique allowing time-dependent displacement of an object to be studied by continuously digitizing the speckle images using a high speed image acquisition system. Instead of generating fringe patterns, the displacement versus time for any point of interest can be studied. Therefore, the technique is equivalent to “many” massless and noncontact displacement sensors, which is particularly useful for vibration measurement.
Single-cell transcriptomic analysis of mIHC images via antigen mapping
Authors: Govek Kiya W. , Troisi Emma C. , Miao Zhen , Aubin Rachael G. , Woodhouse Steven , Camara Pablo G.
Published: March 2021

Mapping single-cell RNA-seq data onto IHC images enables the annotation of cell populations at high phenotypic resolution.
RNF39 mediates K48-linked ubiquitination of DDX3X and inhibits RLR-dependent antiviral immunity
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Jia Mutian , Zhao Chunyuan , Yu Zhongxia , Song Hui , Qin Ying , Zhao Wei
Published: March 2021

An E3 ubiquitin ligase controls DDX3X ubiquitination and stability and therefore suppresses RLR-dependent antiviral responses.
The mycoplasma surface proteins MIB and MIP promote the dissociation of the antibody-antigen interaction
Authors: Nottelet Pierre , Bataille Laure , Gourgues Geraldine , Anger Robin , Lartigue Carole , Sirand-Pugnet Pascal , Marza Esther , Fronzes Remi , Arfi Yonathan
Published: March 2021

MIB and MIP bind to antibodies and disrupt the antigen binding site to promote the dissociation of antibody-antigen interactions.
Real-time
GW
-BSE investigations on spin-valley exciton dynamics in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide
Authors: Jiang Xiang , Zheng Qijing , Lan Zhenggang , Saidi Wissam A. , Ren Xinguo , Zhao Jin
Published: March 2021

An ab initio nonadiabatic molecular dynamics method based on
GW
-rtBSE is developed to investigate spin-resolved exciton dynamics.
Long-Term Exposure to Octenidine in a Simulated Sink Trap Environment Results in Selection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa,
Citrobacter
, and
Enterobacter
Isolates with Mutations in Efflux Pump Regulators
Authors: Garratt Isobel , Aranega-Bou Paz , Sutton J. Mark , Moore Ginny , Wand Matthew E.
Published: March 2021

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of bacteria are a major clinical problem, and several reports have linked outbreaks of MDR bacteria with bacterial populations in hospital sinks. Biocides such as octenidine are used clinically in body washes and other products, such as wound dressings for infection control.
apoA2 correlates to gestational age with decreased apolipoproteins A2, C1, C3 and E in gestational diabetes
Authors: Ramanjaneya Manjunath , Butler Alexandra E , Bashir Mohammed , Bettahi Ilham , Moin Abu Saleh Md , Ahmed Lina , Elrayess Mohamed A , Hunt Steven C , Atkin Stephen L , Abou-Samra Abdul Badi
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at risk of adverse outcomes, including gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and preterm delivery. This study was undertaken to determine if apolipoprotein (apo) levels differed between pregnant women with and without GDM and if they were associated with adverse pregnancy outcome.

Research design and methods

Pregnant women (46 women with GDM and 26 women without diabetes (ND)) in their second trimester were enrolled in the study. Plasma apos were measured and correlated to demographic, biochemical, and pregnancy outcome data.

Results

apoA2, apoC1, apoC3 and apoE were lower in women with GDM compared with control women (p=0.0019, p=0.0031, p=0.0002 and p=0.015, respectively). apoA1, apoB, apoD, apoH, and apoJ levels did not differ between control women and women with GDM. Pearson bivariate analysis revealed significant correlations between gestational age at delivery and apoA2 for women with GDM and control women, and between apoA2 and apoC3 concentrations and C reactive protein (CRP) as a measure of inflammation for the whole group.

Conclusions

Apoproteins apoA2, apoC1, apoC3 and apoE are decreased in women with GDM and may have a role in inflammation, as apoA2 and C3 correlated with CRP. The fact that apoA2 correlated with gestational age at delivery in both control women and women with GDM raises the hypothesis that apoA2 may be used as a biomarker of premature delivery, and this warrants further investigation.
Implantable cardiac defibrillator events in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
Authors: Woźniak Olgierd , Borowiec Karolina , Konka Marek , Cicha-Mikołajczyk Alicja , Przybylski Andrzej , Szumowski Łukasz , Hoffman Piotr , Poślednik Krzysztof , Biernacka Elżbieta Katarzyna
Published: March 2021

Objective

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is associated with a risk of sudden cardiac death. Optimal risk stratification is still under debate. The main purpose of this long-term, single-centre observation was to analyse predictors of appropriate and inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) interventions in the population of patients with ARVC with a high risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.

Methods

The study comprised 65 adult patients (median age 40 years, 48 men) with a definite diagnosis of ARVC who received ICD over a time span of 20 years in primary (40%) or secondary (60%) prevention of sudden cardiac death. The study endpoints were first appropriate and inappropriate ICD interventions (shock or antitachycardia pacing) after device implantation.

Results

During a median follow-up of 7.75 years after ICD implantation, nine patients died and six individuals underwent heart transplantation. Appropriate ICD interventions occurred in 43 patients (66.2%) and inappropriate ICD interventions in 18 patients (27.7%). Multivariable analysis using cause-specific hazard model identified three predictors of appropriate ICD interventions: right ventricle dysfunction (cause-specific HR 2.85, 95% CI 1.56 to 5.21, p<0.001), age <40 years at ICD implantation (cause-specific HR 2.37, 95% CI 1.13 to 4.94, p=0.022) and a history of sustained ventricular tachycardia (cause-specific HR 2.55, 95% CI 1.16 to 5.63, p=0.020). Predictors of inappropriate ICD therapy were not found. Complications related to ICD implantation occurred in 12 patients.

Conclusions

Right ventricle dysfunction, age <40 years and a history of sustained ventricular tachycardia were predictors of appropriate ICD interventions in patients with ARVC. The results may be used to improve risk stratification before ICD implantation.
THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND IMPLICATIONS FOR MONETARY POLICY IN NIGERIA: A SIMULATION STUDY
Authors: OLOFIN SAMUEL O. , ADEBIYI ADEBAYO M. , SALISU AFEES A. , OLUBUSOYE OLUSANYA E. , ADENUGA ADENIYI O.
Published: March 2021

This study complements the emerging literature on the COVID-19 pandemic and provides direction, in the case of Nigeria, for targeting monetary policy response to mitigate the pandemic’s economic consequences. We simulate three scenarios: (i) do-nothing; (ii) reduce MPR gradually and (iii) reduce MPR drastically; amidst falling oil prices. The do-nothing scenario, although inflationary, would produce a marginal appreciation of the Naira/USD exchange rate. Gradual or drastic reduction of MPR would deliver relative price stability, but will undermine exchange rate stability and deplete external reserves. MPR should optimally not be reduced below 12% in response to the economic effect of the pandemic.
Willingness to Pay for Social Health Insurance and Its Predictors among Government Employees in Mujja Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Degie Feleku , Agumas Ambelie Yeshambel , Mulu Gelaw Yared , Fentaw Mulaw Getahun , Wassie Feleke Fentaw
Published: March 2021

Background. Social health insurance is one of the possible organizational mechanisms for raising and pooling funds to finance health services, private health insurance, community insurance, and others. Objective. The study was aimed to assess willingness to pay for social health insurance and associated factors among government employees in Mujja town, Ethiopia. Methods. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on the total sample size of 375 study respondents. A simple random sampling technique was employed. Data were entered into EPI info 7 and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors by controlling confounding variables. Statistical significance was declared at

p
<
0.05

. Results. This study revealed that 37.6% (95% CI: 33.1%, 42.61%) respondents were willing to pay for social health insurance. In the final model, respondents who ever heard about health insurance schemes were seven times (AOR = 7.205; 95% CI: 1.385, 37.475) more likely willing to pay for social health insurance. Thos who had history of difficulty and having other source to cover medical bills were 92.6% (AOR = 0.074; 95% CI: 0.009, 0.612) and 94.6% (AOR = 0.054; 95% CI: 0.011, 0.257) less likely to pay, respectively. Conclusions. Willingness to pay for social health insurance was low. Being heard about health insurance, history of difficulty, and having other sources to cover medical bills were associated factors. Thus, it is recommended that media promotion and these factors should be considered for the successful implementation of the scheme.
Averaging Principle for Backward Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Jing Yuanyuan , Li Zhi
Published: March 2021

The averaging principle for BSDEs and one-barrier RBSDEs, with Lipschitz coefficients, is investigated. An averaged BSDEs for the original BSDEs is proposed, as well as the one-barrier RBSDEs, and their solutions are quantitatively compared. Under some appropriate assumptions, the solutions to original systems can be approximated by the solutions to averaged stochastic systems in the sense of mean square.
Quantitative and Molecular Similarity Analyses of the Metabolites of Cold- and Hot-Natured Chinese Herbs
Authors: Guo Jing , Wang Jiaxiao , Iino Keiko , Tomita Masaru , Soga Tomoyoshi
Published: March 2021

Background. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese herbs possess four different medicinal properties: hot, warm, cold, and cool. These serve as a reference guide for these herbal medicines. However, the molecular mechanisms supporting their relevance remain unclear. Methods. We performed metabolomics based on capillary electrophoresis-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (CE-TOF/MS) and multivariate data analysis for the structural identification of compounds of cold- and hot-natured Chinese herbs. Results. To this end, 30 selected herbs were analyzed and a total of 416 metabolites were identified via CE-TOF/MS, of which 193 compounds were detected in most herbs. The observed profiles offered the potential to understand the mechanism of association between the compounds and nature of the Chinese herbs. Comparison of the similarity in terms of chemical and molecular structures and content revealed that hot-natured herbs contained more nucleotides. In contrast, principal component analysis revealed the presence of more amino acid compounds in cold-natured herbs. Conclusion. Comparing the structural similarities between the samples using the Tanimoto coefficient revealed that a general non-specific structure was observed between cold- and hot-natured herbs; however, the distribution of the molecular groups seemed to contribute more toward the energy properties.
Urban Circular Economy in China: A Review Based on Chinese Literature Studies
Authors: Su Fang , Chang Jiangbo , Li Xi , Zhou Dan , Xue Bing
Published: March 2021

Circular economy is a critical approach to realize the coordinated development of society, economy, and ecological environment. Given the fact that urban is a complex system in which human beings integrate material, energy, information, and natural environment and interact and influence each other, reviewing the urban circular economy research and development could benefit for having a better and comprehensive understanding on urban complexity. Mainly based on the Chinese literature studies from 1999 to 2020, this study aims to present an in‐depth analysis of the research themes, policy systems, and index system of Chinaʼs urban‐scale circular economy, discuss the changes and evolution trends of themes, levels, and perspectives in time series, sort out the policy systems at both the national and local levels, and analyze the design principles and application fields of indicators. Finally, we propose that future development of an urban circular economy should be built based on modern techniques, technologies, and models. The construction of development mechanism on the circular economy should be framed as “government‐led, market‐driven, legal norms, policy support, technological support, and public participation” and inject concepts such as “Internet +,” “sharing economy,” “Internet of Things,” and “artificial intelligence.”
Design of a continuously and linearly controlled VSI-based STATCOM for load current balancing purposes
Authors: Abdulmunem Faris Asaad , Obais Abdulkareem Mokif
Published: March 2021

In this paper, load current balancing are reviewed in both three-wire and 4-wire systems taking into account linearity, harmonics injection, and control schemes. A linearized static compensator (STATCOM) based on H-bridge voltage source inverter (VSI). The proposed STATCOM is controlled in closed loop mode via equipping it with a new current controller. The DC capacitor voltage of the STATCOM is kept constant without using external energy injection or storage devices via shunting the DC capacitor with a suitable series filter. The simulation results of the current responses of the 220V, 50Hz STATCOM reveal continuous and linear performance during responding to reactive current demands from 123A inductive current to 227A capacitive current. The transition time required for the proposed STATCOM during treatment of a sudden change in reactive current demand from maximum inductive current to maximum capacitive current is less than 40ms. The steady state portions of the STATCOM current responses show pure sinusoids, thus the proposed STATCOM can be promoted as harmonic free static Var compensator. The closed loop continuous mode control and the considerable linearity of the proposed STATCOM promot it as a bipolar susceptance (capacitive and inductive) in applications of load current balancing systems in both three and four wire power systems.
A Review on harmonics elimination in real time for cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter using particle swarm optimization
Authors: Yaqoob Muhammad Tayyab , Rahmat Mohd Khairil , Maharum Siti Marwangi Mohamad , Su’ud Mazliham Mohd.
Published: March 2021

Renewable energy has a great importance for power generation as it does not use the fossils fuels. Energy generated from alternative energy sources are weather dependent. To generate a continuous power to meet the load requirements, Battery energy storage system are used. Power conversion process must be much efficient as possible to convert the DC stored energy into AC. This conversion process is usually done by the help of inverters. This paper gives the brief overview on three main categories of multilevel inverter like cascaded h-bridge, neutral point clamped and flying capacitor multilevel inverter and highlights their advantages which can also help the scholars to deeply explore the categories of multilevel inverter. Harmonic elimination is usually done by controlling the switching angles of the inverter. Among all the switching angles techniques, selective harmonic elimination pulse width modulation (SHEPWM) technique is widely used, that has also discussed in this paper. Furthermore, to eliminate the harmonics using SHEPWM, it has the set of nonlinear transcendental equations, these set of equations can be effieceintly solved by the optimization methods. The most efficient and reliable optimization method like particle swarm optimization has been discussed with multiple objective functions in this paper. This paper will help the scholars to understand the finest category of multilevel inverter for harmonic elimination in terms of efficiency and output quality.
Modeling and simulation of forces applied to the horizontal axis wind turbine rotors by the vortex method coupled with the method of the blade element
Authors: Barkat Ibtissem , Benretem Abdelouahab , Massouh Fawaz , Meghlaoui Issam , Chebel Ahlem
Published: March 2021

This article aims to study the forces applied to the rotors of horizontal axis wind turbines. The aerodynamics of a turbine are controlled by the flow around the rotor, or estimate of air charges on the rotor blades under various operating conditions and their relation to the structural dynamics of the rotor are critical for design. One of the major challenges in wind turbine aerodynamics is to predict the forces on the blade as various methods, including blade element moment theory (BEM), the approach that is naturally adapted to the simulation of the aerodynamics of wind turbines and the dynamic and models (CFD) that describes with fidelity the flow around the rotor. In our article we proposed a modeling method and a simulation of the forces applied to the horizontal axis wind rotors turbines using the application of the blade elements method to model the rotor and the vortex method of free wake modeling in order to develop a rotor model, which can be used to study wind farms. This model is intended to speed up the calculation, guaranteeing a good representation of the aerodynamic loads exerted by the wind.
Design and analysis of double stator HE-FSM for aircraft applications
Authors: Ali Hassan , Sulaiman Erwan , Jenal Mahyuzie , Ali Irfan , Jusoh Laili Iwani , Ahmad Zarafi , Firdaus Mohd
Published: March 2021

The main objective of aerospace industry is to produce all electric aircraft (AEA) equipped by electrical devices in coming developments. Electrical machines that provide higher torque densities are gaining more interest for researchers to obtain sustainable direct-drive electrical propulsion system for aircraft applications. In addition to lesser weight and higher torque density, a machine should be “fault tolerant” to applied in aerospace applications. A novel machine for high starting torque, identified as flux switching machine (FSM) was established over the last decade. FSMs comprise all effective sources on stator including robust rotor structure. These machines exhibited higher “torque-to-weight ratios” and reliability. Nonetheless, the challenge of developing a machine suitable for aircraft applications goes far beyond electromagnetic design and much deeper into the field of mechanical systems than traditional ones. Thus, a new double stator (DS) hybrid excitation (HE) FSM design employing segmented rotor is proposed and analyzed in this research work. The suggested design for DS HE-FSM comprises of six field excitation coils (FECs) and six permanent magnets (PMs) as their excitation sources. In this research, investigation of DS HE-FSM is accomplished with respect to flux linkage, back EMF, cogging torque and torque analysis based on 2D FEA.
Investigation of faulty behavior of the sensorless control switched reluctance motor drives
Authors: Krasovsky Alexander
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the results of studies of abnormal conditions in a switched reluctance drive (SRD) due to failures in control algorithms. It discusses one of the most common control algorithms for these drives without the use of sensors, which is simple and easy to configure. The practical application of this algorithm of control showed that various anomalous phenomena could occur in it, expressed, for example, in a sharp increase in the amplitude of the phase current of the motor, and violation of the switching mode. The reasons for these phenomena are not evident and hard to analyze due to the nonlinearity of this drive. To identify these causes and search for measures to eliminate them, we used simulation in the environment of MATLAB/Simulink. The adequacy and effectiveness of the application of the developed simulation models we confirmed by a comparison of the simulation results and the full-scale experiment on real equipment. Theoretical studies and simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results.
Integrated Care in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Bhat Aditya , Khanna Shaun , Chen Henry H.L. , Gupta Arnav , Gan Gary C.H. , Denniss A. Robert , MacIntyre C. Raina , Tan Timothy C.
Published: March 2021

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly encountered arrhythmia in clinical practice with an epidemiological coupling appreciated with advancing age, cardiometabolic risk factors, and structural heart disease. This has resulted in a significant public health burden over the years, evident through increasing rates of hospitalization and AF-related clinical encounters. The resultant gap in health care outcomes is largely twinned with suboptimal rates of anticoagulation prescription and adherence, deficits in symptom identification and management, and insufficient comorbid cardiovascular risk factor investigation and modification. In view of these shortfalls in care, the establishment of integrated chronic care models serves as a road map to best clinical practice. The expansion of integrated chronic care programs, which include multidisciplinary team care, nurse-led AF clinics, and use of telemedicine, are expected to improve AF-related outcomes in the coming years. This review will delve into current gaps in AF care and the role of integrated chronic care models in bridging fragmentations in its management.
Liu Zongzhou and Michel Henry on Absolute Subjectivity
Authors: Chan Wing-Cheuk
Published: March 2021

With the thesis that life is auto-affection, the French philosopher Michel Henry introduced a phenomenology of life. By disclosing the parallels between the Ming Neo-Confucian Liu Zongzhou’s and Henry’s philosophy, this article tries to develop a more radical understanding of the essential difference between Liu Zongzhou’s and Wang Yangming’s Confucianism. Moreover, it will show in what sense Liu Zongzhou’s doctrine is a phenomenology of life. In contrast to Henry’s founding of the phenomenology of life upon Christianity, Liu Zongzhou’s approach is nontheological. In recent years, Henry’s theological phenomenology has been challenged. Particularly, Henry’s Christian account for the possibility of selfhood is charged for lacking phenomenological evidence. It will show that such a difficulty might be overcome by Liu Zongzhou’s thesis of the essential connection between pure feeling and the will.
Momentary Encounters in Heidegger and Linji
Authors: Froese Katrin
Published: March 2021

Both Heidegger and Linji throw into question dualistic relationships, which for Heidegger stem from a subject–object dichotomy associated with Western metaphysics and for Linji result from a reification of conventions, social structure, and language. In Contributions to Philosophy, Heidegger emphasizes the moment of the event (Ereignis) in which Da-sein becomes the site for Being’s appearance and withdrawal. In the Linjilu conventions and concepts collapse in moments of social encounter often involving physical violence intended to serve as a counterpoint to the reifying tendencies of the mind. But while Heidegger suggests that he is engaging in a process of overcoming metaphysics, the Linjilu suggests that the process of un-doing the effects of reified and conceptual language is an ongoing one which depends and grows out of the very reification it throws into question.
Boundary Layer Recovery and Precipitation Symmetrization Preceding Rapid Intensification of Tropical Cyclones under Shear
Authors: Chen Xiaomin , Gu Jian-Feng , Zhang Jun A. , Marks Frank D. , Rogers Robert F. , Cione Joseph J.
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the precipitation symmetrization preceding rapid intensification (RI) of tropical cyclones (TCs) experiencing vertical wind shear by analyzing numerical simulations of Typhoon Mujigae (2015) with warm (CTL) and relatively cool (S1) sea surface temperatures (SSTs). A novel finding is that precipitation symmetrization is maintained by the continuous development of deep convection along the inward flank of a convective precipitation shield (CPS), especially in the downwind part. Beneath the CPS, downdrafts flush the boundary layer with low-entropy parcels. These low-entropy parcels do not necessarily weaken the TCs; instead, they are “recycled” in the TC circulation, gradually recovered by positive enthalpy fluxes, and develop into convection during their propagation toward a downshear convergence zone. Along-trajectory vertical momentum budget analyses reveal the predominant role of buoyancy acceleration in the convective development in both experiments. The boundary layer recovery is more efficient for warmer SST, and the stronger buoyancy acceleration accounts for the higher probability of these parcels developing into deep convection in the downwind part of the CPS, which helps maintain the precipitation symmetrization in CTL. In contrast, less efficient boundary layer recovery and less upshear deep convection hinder the precipitation symmetrization in S1. These findings highlight the key role of boundary layer recovery in regulating the precipitation symmetrization and upshear deep convection, which further accounts for an earlier RI onset timing of the CTL TC. The inward-rebuilding pathway also illuminates why deep convection is preferentially located inside the radius of maximum wind of sheared TCs undergoing RI.
Precipitation Biases in the ECMWF Integrated Forecasting System
Authors: Lavers David A. , Harrigan Shaun , Prudhomme Christel
Published: March 2021

Precipitation is a key component of the global water cycle and plays a crucial role in flooding, droughts, and water supply. One way to manage its socioeconomic effects is based on precipitation forecasts from numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, and an important step to improve precipitation forecasts is by diagnosing NWP biases. In this study, we investigate the biases in precipitation forecasts from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Integrated Forecasting System (IFS). Using the IFS control forecast from 12 June 2019 to 11 June 2020 at 5219 stations globally, we show that in each of the boreal winter and summer half years, the IFS 1) has an average global wet bias and 2) displays similar bias patterns for forecasts starting at 0000 and 1200 UTC and across forecast days 1–5. These biases are dependent on observed (climatological) precipitation; stations with low observed precipitation have an IFS wet bias, while stations with high observed precipitation have an IFS dry bias. Southeast Asia has a wet bias of 1.61 mm day−1 (in boreal summer) and over the study period the precipitation is overestimated by 31.0% on forecast day 3. This is the hydrological signature of several hypothesized processes including issues specifying the IFS snowpack over the Tibetan Plateau, which may affect the mei-yu front. These biases have implications for IFS land–atmosphere feedbacks, river discharge, and for ocean circulation in the Southeast Asia region. Reducing these biases could lead to more accurate forecasts of the global water cycle.
Does Forum Theater Help Reduce Gender Inequalities and Violence? Findings From Nepal
Authors: Dahal Pranab , Joshi Sunil Kumar , Swahnberg Katarina
Published: March 2021

Gender inequality and violence against women are present in every society and culture around the world. The intensities vary, however, based on the local guiding norms and established belief systems. The society of Nepal is centered on traditional belief systems of gender roles and responsibilities, providing greater male supremacy and subordination for the females. This has led to the development and extensive practices of social gender hierarchal systems, producing several inequalities and violence toward women. This study has utilized Forum Theater interventions as a method of raising awareness in 10 villages in eastern Nepal. The study aimed to understand the perception and changes in the community and individuals from the interactive Forum Theater performances on pertinent local gender issues. We conducted 6 focus group discussions and 30 individual interviews with male and female participants exposed to the interventions. The data analysis utilized the constructivist grounded theory methodology. The study finds that exposure and interactive participation in the Forum Theater provide the audience with knowledge, develop empathy toward the victim, and motivate them to change the situation of inequality, abuse, and violence using dialogues and negotiations. The study describes how participation in Forum Theater has increased individual’s ability for negotiating changes. The engagement by the audience in community discussions and replication of efforts in one of the intervention sites show the level of preparedness and ownership among the targeted communities. The study shows the methodological aspects of the planning and performance of the Forum Theater and recommends further exploration of the use of Forum Theater in raising awareness.
Barriers and Facilitators to the International Implementation of Standardized Outcome Measures in Clinical Cleft Practice
Authors: Apon Inge , Rogers-Vizena Carolyn R. , Koudstaal Maarten J. , Allori Alexander C. , Peterson Petra , Versnel Sarah L. , Ramirez Jessily P.
Published: March 2021

Objective:

To identify barriers and facilitators to international implementation of a prospective system for standardized outcomes measurement in cleft care.

Design:

Cleft teams that have implemented the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement Standard Set for cleft care were invited to participate in this 2-part qualitative study: (1) an exploratory survey among clinicians, health information technology professionals, and project coordinators, and (2) semistructured interviews of project leads. Thematic content analysis was performed, with organization of themes according to the dimensions of the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation and maintenance (RE-AIM) framework: reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance.

Results:

Four cleft teams in Europe and North America participated in this study. Thirteen participants completed exploratory questionnaires and 5 interviewees participated in follow-up interviews. Survey responses and thematic content analysis revealed common facilitators and barriers to implementation at all sites. Teams reach patients either via email or during the clinic visit to capture patient-reported outcomes. Adopting routine data collection is enhanced by aligning priorities at the organizational and cleft team level. Streamlining workflows and developing an efficient data collection platform are necessary early on, followed by pilot testing or stepwise implementation. Regular meetings and financial resources are crucial for implementing, sustaining, analyzing collected data, and providing feedback to health care professionals and patients. Fostering patient-centered care was articulated as a positive outcome, whereas time presented challenges across all RE-AIM dimensions.

Conclusions:

Identified themes can inform ongoing implementation efforts. Intentionally investing time to lay a sound foundation early on will benefit every phase of implementation and help overcome barriers such as lack of support or motivation.
PHILOS Plate Plus Oblique Insertion of Autologous Fibula for 2-Part Proximal Humerus Fractures With Medial Column Disruption: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Shu Ying , Chen Meiji , Yu Weiguang , Ge Zhe , Hu Hao , Zhang Xinchao , Zeng Xianshang , Liu Xiangzhen
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcomes of older patients with 2-part proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) with medial column disruption stabilized using a proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS) plate plus oblique insertion of autologous fibula as a primary procedure.

Materials and Methods:

Data involving 112 patients (112 shoulders) sustaining 2-part PHFs with medial column disruption treated with PHILOS plate plus oblique insertion of autologous fibula as a primary procedure during 2012-2019 were identified. The median follow-up was 36 months (range: 11.2-43.5 months). The primary endpoint was the Constant scores and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores. The secondary endpoint was the main orthopedic complication rate.

Results:

The median Constant and ASES scores were 78 (range, 52-95) and 77 (range, 62-96) at the final follow-up, respectively. The main orthopedic complication rate was 10.7% (12/112). Twelve orthopedic complications in 8 patients were detected, and they involved loss of reduction, varus collapse, aseptic loosening, mal-union, revision, and intolerable shoulder pain. Of these complications, 3 (2.6%) involved loss of reduction, 2 (1.7%) involved varus collapse, 3 (2.6%) involved aseptic loosening, 1 (0.8%) involved mal-union, 2 (1.7%) required revision surgery, and 1 (0.8%) presented intolerable shoulder pain.

Conclusion:

PHILOS plate plus oblique insertion of autologous fibula as a primary procedure may yield good functional outcomes and a low rate of the main orthopedic complications.
Associations Between Perceptions of the Work Environment and Job Burnout Based on MIMIC Models Among 679 Knowledge Workers
Authors: Guan Ming
Published: March 2021

In the current times, knowledge work and knowledge worker play an important role in organizational development. The purpose of this paper is to examine the associations between perceptions of the work environment and job burnout among 679 knowledge workers with a publicly available data. Based on the exploratory factor analysis, five multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) models are acceptable and confirm, including socioeconomic factors→perceptions of the work environment model, socioeconomic factors→job burnout model, perceptions of the work environment←socioeconomic factors→job burnout model, perceptions of the work environment→job burnout model, and job burnout→perceptions of the work environment model. The results from MIMIC models indicated job burnout has significant associations with perceptions of the work environment. The implications of these results for well-beings among the knowledge workers are discussed.
Incidence of Head Contacts, Penalties, and Player Contact Behaviors in Youth Ice Hockey: Evaluating the “Zero Tolerance for Head Contact” Policy Change
Authors: Williamson Rylen A. , Kolstad Ash T. , Krolikowski Maciej , Nadeau Luc , Goulet Claude , Hagel Brent E. , Emery Carolyn A.
Published: March 2021

Background:

To reduce the risk of concussion in youth ice hockey, Hockey Canada implemented a national “zero tolerance for head contact” (HC) policy in 2011. A previous cohort study revealed higher concussion rates after this implementation in players aged 11 to 14 years. However, it is unknown whether the elevated risk was due to higher HC rates or factors such as increased concussion awareness and reporting.

Purpose:

To compare the rates of primary and secondary HCs and HC policy enforcement in elite U15 ice hockey leagues (players <15 years) before (2008-2009) and after (2013-2014) the zero-tolerance policy change.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 32 elite U15 games before (n2008-2009 = 16; 510 players) and after (n2013-2014 = 16; 486 players) HC policy implementation were video recorded. Videos were analyzed with validated criteria for identifying HC types (primary/direct contact by players [HC1], secondary/indirect contact via boards, glass, or ice surface [HC2]) and other player-to-player contact behavior. Referee-assessed penalties were cross-referenced with the official Hockey Canada casebook, and penalty types were displayed using proportions. Univariate Poisson regression (adjusted for cluster by team game, offset by game length [minutes]) was used to estimate HC incidence rates (IRs) and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) between cohorts.

Results:

A total of 506 HCs were analyzed, 261 before HC policy implementation (IR, 16.6/100 team minutes) and 245 after implementation (IR, 15.5/100 team minutes). The HC1 rate (IRR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.86-1.28) and HC2 rate (IRR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.50-1.11) did not significantly differ before versus after implementation. Only 12.0% and 13.6% of HC1s were penalized pre- and postimplementation, respectively. Before implementation, HC1s were commonly penalized as roughing or elbowing penalties (59%), while after implementation, HC1s were penalized with the HC penalty (76%), and only 8% as roughing or elbowing.

Conclusion:

Despite implementation of the “zero tolerance for HC” policy, there was no difference in the rate of HC1s and HC2s or the proportion of HC1 penalized from before to after implementation. This research is instrumental in informing Hockey Canada’s future referee training and rule enforcement modifications.
Unearthing the Facets of Crisis History in Crisis Communication: A Conceptual Framework and Introduction of the Crisis History Salience Scale
Authors: Eaddy LaShonda L.
Published: March 2021

Coombs’s Situational Crisis Communication Theory suggests performance history, composed of relationship history and crisis history, intensify crisis responsibility attribution. Relationship history is organizations’ actual and perceived rapport with publics, while crisis history is an organization’s previous crises. Extant literature has only examined crisis history one-dimensionally. This study proposes the Crisis History Framework that provides insight into influential factors that can make crises more or less salient to individuals. Furthermore, the study introduces the Crisis History Salience Scale that can help crisis communications scholars conduct empirical research examining crisis history’s multiple facets. Moreover, the study offers suggestions for how crisis history considerations can inform proactive crisis management, key messaging, and strategy development during crises.
Low-formaldehyde emission composite particleboard manufactured from waste chestnut bur
Authors: Liang Jiayin , Wu Jiabiao , Xu Jianying
Published: March 2021

Chestnut bur is an agro-waste material generated in the chestnut production. It is a tannin-rich lignocellulosic material which might be a promising raw material for low-formaldehyde composite particleboard production when using urea–formaldehyde (UF) as bonding adhesive. In this study, the characteristics of chestnut bur were analyzed to assess its application value for composite panel. Five-type particleboards were manufactured from the mixture of chestnut bur/poplar particles with the weight ratios of 0/100, 25/75, 50/50, 75/25 and 100/0, UF resin was used as bonding adhesive. The effects of the addition amount of chestnut bur on the physical, mechanical properties and formaldehyde emission of particleboard were studied. The results showed as follows: (1) chestnut bur showed low cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin contents, but high extractives and ash contents compared with poplar wood. Chestnut bur and poplar wood had the similar fiber morphology. (2) Composite board with relatively good performances could be manufactured with mix particles of chestnut bur and poplar wood. With the increasing of chestnut bur content, the mechanical properties of the composite board decreased, whereas the dimensional stability increased. (3) The total phenol content in the chestnut bur was as high as 13.79%. The phenolic substance in the chestnut burs could react with free formaldehyde. Hence, the free formaldehyde emission of particleboard was effectively reduced. In summary, waste chestnut bur is a suitable material which can not only be utilized as the base material, but also a natural free formaldehyde scavenger for composite particleboard production.
Recurrent epiphora after dacryocystorhinostomy surgery: Structural abnormalities identified with dacryocystography and long term outcomes of revision surgery
Authors: Timlin Hannah M. , Kang Swan , Jiang Kailun , Ezra Daniel G.
Published: March 2021

Background

To investigate the aetiopathology of recurrent epiphora or stickiness after dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery, identifiable on dacryocystography (DCG), and to assess the success rates of secondary corrective surgeries.

Methods

Consecutive post-DCR DCG images from patients with recurrent symptoms were reviewed between 2012 and 2015.

Results

One hundred fifty-nine eyes of 137 patients were evaluated. Fifty-eight DCGs showed normal postoperative findings, 4 an upper/lower canalicular block, 13 a common canalicular block, 31 a completely closed anastomosis, 50 a narrow anastomosis, and 3 an anastomosis draining into a nasal sinus.

The most successful corrective procedures for each failure category were: Lester Jones Tube (LJT) for a normal post-operative DCG (17/18 success), Sisler trephination with tubes for upper/lower canalicular block (1/2 success), redo-DCR with tube for common canalicular blockage (5/6 success), redo-DCR +/− tube for completely closed anastomosis (12/16 success), LJT followed by redo-DCR +/− tube for narrow surgical anastomosis (1/1 and 17/27 success respectively), and redo-external-DCR with tube for anastomosis into a nasal sinus (1/1 success). Redo-DCR was ineffective in patients who had good post-DCR anatomical patency (22% success).

Conclusion

This is the first study to report success rates of redo-DCR surgery according to anatomical findings confirmed by DCG. The outcome flow diagram help clinicians recommend procedures that are most likely to be successful for their patient’s specific anatomical abnormality. It also provides a visual tool for the shared decision-making process. Notably, symptomatic patients with a normal DCG post DCR are unlikely to benefit from redo-DCR, with a LJT being the recommended next step.
Transitions in hookah (Waterpipe) smoking by U.S. sexual minority adults between 2013 and 2015: the population assessment of tobacco and health study wave 1 and wave 2
Authors: Rezk-Hanna Mary , Holloway Ian W. , Toyama Joy , Warda Umme Shefa , Berteau Lorree Catherine , Brecht Mary-Lynn , Sarna Linda
Published: March 2021

Background

Tobacco smoking using a hookah (i.e., waterpipe) is a global epidemic. While evidence suggests that sexual minorities (SM) have higher odds of hookah use compared to heterosexuals, little is known about their hookah use patterns and transitions. We sought to examine transitions between hookah smoking and use of other tobacco and electronic (e-) products among SM adults aged 18 years of age and older versus their heterosexual counterparts.

Methods

We analyzed nationally representative data of ever and current hookah smokers from Wave 1 (2013–2014; ever use n = 1014 SM and n = 9462 heterosexuals; current use n = 144 SM and n = 910 heterosexuals) and Wave 2 (2014–2015; ever use n = 901 SM and n = 8049 heterosexuals; current use n = 117 SM and n = 602 heterosexuals) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. Comparisons between groups and gender subgroups within SM identity groups were determined with Rao-Scott chi-square tests and multivariable survey-weighted multinomial logistic regression models were estimated for transition patterns and initiation of electronic product use in Wave 2.

Results

Ever and current hookah smoking among SM adults (ever use Wave 1: 29% and Wave 2: 31%; current use Wave 1: 4% and Wave 2: 3%) was higher than heterosexuals (ever use Wave 1: 16% and Wave 2: 16%; current use Wave 1: 1% and Wave 2: 1%; both p < 0.0001). Among SM adults who reported hookah use at Wave 1, 46% quit hookah use at Wave 2; 39% continued hookah use and did not transition to other products while 36% of heterosexual adults quit hookah use at Wave 2 and 36% continued hookah use and did not transition to other products. Compared with heterosexuals, SM adults reported higher use of hookah plus e-products (Wave 2 usage increased by 65 and 83%, respectively).

Conclusions

Compared to heterosexuals, in addition to higher rates of hookah smoking, higher percentages of SM adults transitioned to hookah plus e-product use between 2013 and 2015. Results have implications for stronger efforts to increase awareness of the harmful effects of hookah as well as vaping, specifically tailored among SM communities.
Predictors of failure with high-flow nasal oxygen therapy in COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory failure: a multicenter observational study
Authors:   for the COVID-19 Spanish ICU Network, Mellado-Artigas Ricard , Mujica Luis Eduardo , Ruiz Magda Liliana , Ferreyro Bruno Leonel , Angriman Federico , Arruti Egoitz , Torres Antoni , Barbeta Enric , Villar Jesús , Ferrando Carlos
Published: March 2021

Purpose

We aimed to describe the use of high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) in patients with COVID-19 acute respiratory failure and factors associated with a shift to invasive mechanical ventilation.

Methods

This is a multicenter, observational study from a prospectively collected database of consecutive COVID-19 patients admitted to 36 Spanish and Andorran intensive care units (ICUs) who received HFNO on ICU admission during a 22-week period (March 12-August 13, 2020). Outcomes of interest were factors on the day of ICU admission associated with the need for endotracheal intubation. We used multivariable logistic regression and mixed effects models. A predictive model for endotracheal intubation in patients treated with HFNO was derived and internally validated.

Results

From a total of 259 patients initially treated with HFNO, 140 patients (54%) required invasive mechanical ventilation. Baseline non-respiratory Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score [odds ratio (OR) 1.78; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41-2.35], and the ROX index calculated as the ratio of partial pressure of arterial oxygen to inspired oxygen fraction divided by respiratory rate (OR 0.53; 95% CI: 0.37-0.72), and pH (OR 0.47; 95% CI: 0.24-0.86) were associated with intubation. Hospital site explained 1% of the variability in the likelihood of intubation after initial treatment with HFNO. A predictive model including non-respiratory SOFA score and the ROX index showed excellent performance (AUC 0.88, 95% CI 0.80-0.96).

Conclusions

Among adult critically ill patients with COVID-19 initially treated with HFNO, the SOFA score and the ROX index may help to identify patients with higher likelihood of intubation.