bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earthquake magnitude and location estimation from real time seismic waveforms with a transformer network
Authors: Münchmeyer Jannes , Bindi Dino , Leser Ulf , Tilmann Frederik
Published: April 2021

Precise real time estimates of earthquake magnitude and location are essential for early warning and rapid response. While recently multiple deep learning approaches for fast assessment of earthquakes have been proposed, they usually rely on either seismic records from a single station or from a fixed set of seismic stations. Here we introduce a new model for real-time magnitude and location estimation using the attention based transformer networks. Our approach incorporates waveforms from a dynamically varying set of stations and outperforms deep learning baselines in both magnitude and location estimation performance. Furthermore, it outperforms a classical magnitude estimation algorithm considerably and shows promising performance in comparison to a classical localization algorithm. Our model is applicable to real-time prediction and provides realistic uncertainty estimates based on probabilistic inference. In this work, we furthermore conduct a comprehensive study of the requirements on training data, the training procedures and the typical failure modes. Using three diverse and large scale data sets, we conduct targeted experiments and a qualitative error analysis. Our analysis gives several key insights. First, we can precisely pinpoint the effect of large training data; for example, a four times larger training set reduces average errors for both magnitude and location prediction by more than half, and reduces the required time for real time assessment by a factor of four. Secondly, the basic model systematically underestimates large magnitude events. This issue can be mitigated, and in some cases completely resolved, by incorporating events from other regions into the training through transfer learning. Thirdly, location estimation is highly precise in areas with sufficient training data, but is strongly degraded for events outside the training distribution, sometimes producing massive outliers. Our analysis suggests that these characteristics are not only present for our model, but for most deep learning models for fast assessment published so far. They result from the black box modeling and their mitigation will likely require imposing physics derived constraints on the neural network. These characteristics need to be taken into consideration for practical applications.
The devil is in the detail: reflections on the value and application of cognitive interviewing to strengthen quantitative surveys in global health
Authors: Scott K , Ummer O , LeFevre A E
Published: April 2021

Cognitive interviewing is a qualitative research method for improving the validity of quantitative surveys, which has been underused by academic researchers and monitoring and evaluation teams in global health. Draft survey questions are administered to participants drawn from the same population as the respondent group for the survey itself. The interviewer facilitates a detailed discussion with the participant to assess how the participant interpreted each question and how they formulated their response. Draft survey questions are revised and undergo additional rounds of cognitive interviewing until they achieve high comprehension and cognitive match between the research team’s intent and the target population’s interpretation. This methodology is particularly important in global health when surveys involve translation or are developed by researchers who differ from the population being surveyed in terms of socio-demographic characteristics, worldview, or other aspects of identity. Without cognitive interviewing, surveys risk measurement error by including questions that respondents find incomprehensible, that respondents are unable to accurately answer, or that respondents interpret in unintended ways. This methodological musing seeks to encourage a wider uptake of cognitive interviewing in global public health research, provide practical guidance on its application, and prompt discussion on its value and practice. To this end, we define cognitive interviewing, discuss how cognitive interviewing compares to other forms of survey tool development and validation, and present practical steps for its application. These steps cover defining the scope of cognitive interviews, selecting and training researchers to conduct cognitive interviews, sampling participants, collecting data, debriefing, analysing the emerging findings, and ultimately generating revised, validated survey questions. We close by presenting recommendations to ensure quality in cognitive interviewing.
The rotation of selected globular clusters and the differential rotation of M3 in multiple populations from the SDSS-IV APOGEE-2 survey
Authors: Szigeti László , Mészáros Szabolcs , Szabó Gyula M , Fernández-Trincado José G , Lane Richard R , Cohen Roger E
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we analyse 10 globular clusters in order to measure their rotational properties by using high precision radial velocity data from the SDSS-IV APOGEE-2 survey. Out of the 10 clusters we were able to successfully measure the rotation speed and position angle of the rotation axis for 9 clusters (M2, M3, M5, M12, M13, M15, M53, M92, M107). The comparison between our results and previous ones shows a really good agreement within our uncertainties. For four of the globular clusters, M3, M13, M5, and M15, we separated the sample into two generation of stars using their [Al/Fe] abundances and examined the kinematic features of these generations separately from one another. In case of M3, we found significant difference between the rotational properties of first and second populations, confirming for the first time the predictions of several numerical simulations from the literature. The other three clusters (M5, M13, M15) also show smaller deviation between the two groups of stars, but those deviations are comparable to our errors.
The double-peaked Type Ic supernova 2019cad: another SN 2005bf-like object
Authors: Gutiérrez C P , Bersten M C , Orellana M , Pastorello A , Ertini K , Folatelli G , Pignata G , Anderson J P , Smartt S , Sullivan M , Pursiainen M , Inserra C , Elias-Rosa N , Fraser M , Kankare E , Moran S , Reguitti A , Reynolds T M , Stritzinger M , Burke J , Frohmaier C , Galbany L , Hiramatsu D , Howell D A , Kuncarayakti H , Mattila S , Müller-Bravo T , Pellegrino C , Smith M
Published: April 2021

We present the photometric and spectroscopic evolution of supernova (SN) 2019cad during the first ∼100 d from explosion. Based on the light-curve morphology, we find that SN 2019cad resembles the double-peaked Type Ib/c SN 2005bf and the Type Ic PTF11mnb. Unlike those two objects, SN 2019cad also shows the initial peak in the redder bands. Inspection of the g-band light curve indicates the initial peak is reached in ∼8 d, while the r-band peak occurred ∼15 d post-explosion. A second and more prominent peak is reached in all bands at ∼45 d past explosion, followed by a fast decline from ∼60 d. During the first 30 d, the spectra of SN 2019cad show the typical features of a Type Ic SN, however, after 40 d, a blue continuum with prominent lines of Si ii λ6355 and C ii λ6580 is observed again. Comparing the bolometric light curve to hydrodynamical models, we find that SN 2019cad is consistent with a pre-SN mass of 11 M⊙, and an explosion energy of 3.5 × 1051 erg. The light-curve morphology can be reproduced either by a double-peaked 56Ni distribution with an external component of 0.041 M⊙, and an internal component of 0.3 M⊙ or a double-peaked 56Ni distribution plus magnetar model (P ∼ 11 ms and B ∼ 26 × 1014 G). If SN 2019cad were to suffer from significant host reddening (which cannot be ruled out), the 56Ni model would require extreme values, while the magnetar model would still be feasible.
VLBI images at 327 MHz of compact steep spectrum and GHz-peaked spectrum sources from the 3C and PW samples
Authors: Dallacasa D , Orienti M , Fanti C , Fanti R
Published: April 2021

We present results on global very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations at 327 MHz of 18 compact steep-spectrum (CSS) and GHz-peaked spectrum (GPS) radio sources from the 3C and the Peacock & Wall catalogues. About 80 per cent of the sources have a ‘double/triple’ structure. The radio emission at 327 MHz is dominated by steep-spectrum extended structures, while compact regions become predominant at higher frequencies. As a consequence, we could unambiguously detect the core region only in three sources, likely due to self-absorption affecting its emission at this low frequency. Despite their low surface brightness, lobes store the majority of the source energy budget, whose correct estimate is a key ingredient in tackling the radio source evolution. Low-frequency VLBI observations able to disentangle the lobe emission from that of other regions are therefore the best way to infer the energetics of these objects. Dynamical ages estimated from energy budget arguments provide values between 2 × 103 and 5 × 104 yr, in agreement with the radiative ages estimated from the fit of the integrated synchrotron spectrum, further supporting the youth of these objects. A discrepancy between radiative and dynamical ages is observed in a few sources where the integrated spectrum is dominated by hotspots. In this case the radiative age likely represents the time spent by the particles in these regions, rather than the source age.
Fingerprints of stellar populations in the near-infrared: an optimized set of spectral indices in the JHK bands 0
Authors: Eftekhari Elham , Vazdekis Alexandre , La Barbera Francesco
Published: April 2021

Stellar population studies provide unique clues to constrain galaxy formation models. So far, detailed studies based on absorption line strengths have mainly focused on the optical spectral range although many diagnostic features are present in other spectral windows. In particular, the near-infrared (NIR) can provide a wealth of information about stars, such as evolved giants, that have less evident optical signatures. Due to significant advances in NIR instrumentation and extension of spectral libraries and stellar population synthesis (SPS) models to this domain, it is now possible to perform in-depth studies of spectral features in the NIR to a high level of precision. In this work, taking advantage of state-of-the-art SPS models covering the NIR spectral range, we introduce a new set of NIR indices constructed to be maximally sensitive to the main stellar population parameters, namely age, metallicity, and initial mass function (IMF). We fully characterize the new indices against these parameters as well as their sensitivity to individual elemental abundance variations, velocity dispersion broadening, wavelength shifts, signal-to-noise ratio, and flux calibration. We also present, for the first time, a method to ensure that the analysis of spectral indices is not affected by sky contamination, which is a major challenge when dealing with NIR spectroscopy. Moreover, we discuss two main applications: (i) the ability of some NIR spectral indices to constrain the shape of the low-mass IMF and (ii) current issues in the analysis of NIR spectral indices for future developments of SPS modelling.
A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase 2b Trial of Cytisinicline in Adult Smokers (The ORCA-1 Trial)
Authors: Nides Mitchell , Rigotti Nancy A , Benowitz Neal , Clarke Anthony , Jacobs Cindy
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Cytisinicline (known as cytisine), a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist, is a smoking cessation aid currently marketed in Central and Eastern Europe using a 1.5-mg/tablet 25-day downward titration schedule. No prior studies have evaluated other doses or administration schedules. This study evaluated the effects of a higher dosage and simplified dosing schedule on drug efficacy and tolerability.

Methods

ORCA-1 was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial that provided cytisinicline or placebo tablets plus behavioral support for 25 days. Adult smokers (>10 cigarettes daily) committed to quitting smoking were randomized to compare 2 cytisinicline doses (1.5 mg and 3 mg) versus placebo, and 2 administration schedules [downward titration versus 3 times daily (TID)]. Primary outcome was a reduction in expected cigarettes smoked at end of treatment; secondary outcomes were biochemically confirmed 7-day abstinence at Week 4 and continuous abstinence from Weeks 5 to 8.

Results

Among 254 participants, those in cytisinicline arms (regardless of dose or schedule) had greater reductions in cigarettes smoked versus placebo, with differences observed in 3 cytisinicline arms statistically significant versus placebo. All cytisinicline arms had statistically significantly higher abstinence rates at Week 4 versus placebo. Both cytisinicline arms using TID schedules had statistically significantly higher continuous abstinence rates from Weeks 5 to 8 compared with placebo. Participants in the cytisinicline 3-mg TID arm had the highest abstinence rate. There were no safety concerns with either 1.5-mg or 3-mg cytisinicline.

Conclusion

Based on simpler dose scheduling, excellent tolerability, and best-continued abstinence rate, cytisinicline 3-mg TID was selected for future Phase 3 studies.

Implications

Although the 1.5-mg 25-day titration schedule has been marketed in Central and Eastern Europe for decades, this study explored using a higher dosage and a simplified dosing schedule for impact on cytisinicline efficacy and tolerability. Based on these results, a Phase 3 program was initiated using cytisinicline 3-mg tablets on a TID schedule for potential market approval in the United States.
The Dollar Profits to Insider Trading
Authors: Cziraki Peter , Gider Jasmin
Published: April 2021

This article studies insider trading quantities and dollar profits to measure the benefits insiders extract from their superior information. Dollar profits are economically small for a typical insider, the median insider earning $464 per year. The correlation between dollar profits and percentage returns is moderate, because returns are negatively correlated with trade size and frequency. We show that these correlations vary with proxies for insider preferences, firm-level monitoring, and regulatory scrutiny. As a consequence, variables that predict percentage returns fail to predict dollar profits, and past dollar profits are negatively related to future returns. Our work suggests that dollar profits are a better measure for corporate governance applications of insider trading.
Rapid Methodologies for AssessingPseudomonas syringaepv.actinidiaeColonization and Effector-Mediated Hypersensitive Response in Kiwifruit
Authors: Jayaraman Jay , Chatterjee Abhishek , Hunter Shannon , Chen Ronan , Stroud Erin A. , Saei Hassan , Hoyte Stephen , Deroles Simon , Tahir Jibran , Templeton Matthew D. , Brendolise Cyril
Published: April 2021

The infection of Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae in kiwifruit is currently assessed by numerous methodologies, each with their own limitations. Most studies are based on either a laborious method of growth quantification of the pathogen or qualitative assessments by visual scoring following stem or cutting inoculation. Additionally, when assessing for resistance against specific pathogen effectors, confounding interactions between multiple genes in the pathogen can make mapping resistance phenotypes nearly impossible. Here, we present robust alternative methods to quantify pathogen load based on rapid bacterial DNA quantification by PCR, the use of Pseudomonas fluorescens, and a transient reporter eclipse assay for assessing resistance conferred by isolated bacterial avirulence genes. These assays compare well with bacterial plate counts to assess bacterial colonization as a result of plant resistance activation. The DNA-based quantification, when coupled with the P. fluorescens and reporter eclipse assays to independently identify bacterial avirulence genes, is rapid, highly reproducible, and scalable for high-throughput screens of multiple cultivars or genotypes. Application of these methodologies will allow rapid and high-throughput identification of resistant cultivars and the bacterial avirulence genes they recognize, facilitating resistance gene discovery for plant breeding programs.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Comparison of the Efficacy of Two Different Medial Linkage Mechanisms in Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses on Walking Ability in Subjects with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Seyyedzadeh Hanieh , Arazpour Mokhtar , Saeedi Hassan , Mousavi Mohammad Ebrahim , Golchin Navid
Published: April 2021

Introduction

This study evaluated the efficacy of two different medial linkage mechanisms (sliding mechanism [SM] and medial linkage mechanism associated with reciprocating gait motion (MLRGM), used within otherwise identical knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) on patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

Three volunteer subjects with SCI were fitted with a KAFO equipped with 1) an SM and 2) a medial linkage mechanism (MLRGM). Subjects walked at their self-selected speed along a flat walkway to enable a comparison of walking speed, endurance, and the resulting physiological cost index to be performed.

Results

The use of a KAFO fitted with the MLRGM resulted in improvements in walking speed, distance walked, and energy costs when compared with the more standard SM. However, the time required to don the KAFO increased with use of the MLRGM, but doffing time was approximately equal for both types.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the use of a KAFO with an MLRGM could provide significant benefits for patients with SCI when compared with a KAFO with a standard SM.
Digital Parenting
Authors: K Kavitha , Sikandar Basheerahamed J.
Published: April 2021

Parenting helps socialization in children. The inevitable presence of digital media has a major impact on parent–child relationships and parenting skills. The increased use of digital devices, such as smartphones and tablets, by children forces the parents to change their parenting styles. Digital parenting refers to a process adopted by parents to monitor and regulate the activities of their young ones in handling digital devices. The main aim of this style is to protect their children from various online dangers. Parents need to use several approaches for regulating digital media behaviors of children, such as setting limits, practicing constructive discipline, spending time with their kids, and so forth. However, there are challenges associated with digital parenting. Some of the issues include unlimited access to Internet, parents’ job, reverse socialization, and so on. Pediatric nurses can help parents in successfully managing digital parenting styles through education and advocacy as part of health promotion activities of pediatric clients both in hospital and community settings.
Buschke-Lowenstein Tumors: A Review and Proposed Classification System
Authors: Davis Kurt G. , Barton Jeffrey S. , Orangio Guy , Bivin William , Krane Spencer
Published: April 2021

Buschke-Lowenstein (B-L) tumors or giant condylomata are large fungating lesions that are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) and develop in the anogenital region. Although uncommon, physicians and surgeons who treat sexually transmitted diseases or other diseases involving the anogenital area will encounter these patients. The purpose of this study is to review the current literature regarding these lesions. We evaluated every published study in PubMed and Embase from 1925 to 2020, concentrating on the clinical data included in each report, such as presentation and treatment. We also evaluated each work for any definition used and found that there is no accepted definition for these lesions. As such, we provide an inclusive, workable definition. In addition, there are many misconceptions about B-L that continue to be propogated as more case reports are published every year. After evaluating every published case, we refute the fact that these lesions have a high mortality or a high malignancy rate. Furthermore, we refute that these lesions are synonymous with verrucous carcinoma. In addition to a definition, we also propose a simple grading system that we hope can be used to assist in the study and management of these patients moving forward. Although the literature is very heterogenous regarding B-L, they are caused by HPV and are distinct from verrucous carcinoma. Because of the majority of information is based on case reports, the literature concentrates on treatment, but more work is clearly needed to delineate the association with specific HPV types and optimal management of this disease.
An Incidental Finding of Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation Type 3 During a Forensic Autopsy for a Sudden Infant Death
Authors: D'Hondt Diona , Van Hoyweghen Astrid , Broeckx Glenn , Pauwels Patrick
Published: April 2021

Congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), previously known as congenital cystic airway malformation, is a developmental disorder of the lower respiratory tract. It is subdivided into 5 types based on clinical and pathologic features. Type 3, an adenomatoid type of CPAM, is the second rarest form of CPAM, occurring in approximately 5% of all CPAM cases. This article reports an autopsy of a nearly 11-week-old male infant, found unresponsive in bed with his mother. She had fallen asleep after breastfeeding a few hours prior. Although the autopsy and additional technical examinations did not uncover the exact cause of death, CPAM type 3 was eventually identified on histological examination. Taking into account the context of this case, in which accidental asphyxia/neglect could not be ruled out, it is thought that the presence of CPAM might have contributed to the demise of the infant. As CPAM is a rare congenital disorder, the diagnosis could easily be missed. Therefore, this article aims to raise awareness of this diagnosis and points out the clinical and pathologic features of this disorder.
The Association of Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fractures with Naso-Orbitoethmoid Fractures in Pediatric Populations
Authors: Yesantharao Pooja S. , Lopez Joseph , Chang Amy , Hicks Jacqueline , Reategui Maria L. , Thomas Gianni , Manson Paul N. , Dorafshar Amir , Redett Richard J.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Naso-orbitoethmoid fractures associated with ipsilateral zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures are more challenging injuries than zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures alone. However, there is a paucity of information on this complex fracture pattern in the pediatric population. This study investigated the cause, treatment, and outcomes of combined zygomaticomaxillary complex and naso-orbitoethmoid fractures versus isolated zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures in pediatric patients.

Methods:

This was a 25-year retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients who presented to a single institution with zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures. Baseline patient demographics and clinical information, and concomitant injuries, treatment/operative management, and postoperative complications/deformities were recorded and compared between patients with combined zygomaticomaxillary complex and naso-orbitoethmoid fractures and patients with isolated zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures.

Results:

Forty-nine patients were identified to have had zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures in the authors’ 25-year study period, of whom 46 had adequate clinical documentation and follow-up. Seventeen patients had combined zygomaticomaxillary complex–naso-orbitoethmoid fractures, of whom six had panfacial fractures. Both patient groups (zygomaticomaxillary complex only and combined zygomaticomaxillary complex–naso-orbitoethmoid fractures) were similar in terms of demographics. However, a significantly greater proportion of combined fracture patients experienced postoperative complications compared to isolated zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture patients, even after excluding those with panfacial fractures (87.5 percent versus 35.3 percent; p < 0.001). Enophthalmos (37.5 percent) and midface growth restriction (37.5 percent) were the two most common complications/deformities in all combined fracture patients.

Conclusions:

High-impact trauma can lead to zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures with associated naso-orbitoethmoid fractures in children. This injury pattern was found to cause significantly greater postoperative morbidity than isolated zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures alone. Thus, pediatric patients presenting with this complex facial fracture pattern should be closely monitored.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, II.
Physical and Cognitive Training to Enhance Intensive Care Unit Survivors’ Cognition
Authors: Lasiter Sue , Chrisman Matthew , Snodgrass Britney , Thompson Marie , Harmon Katherine
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine current literature regarding effects of physical or cognitive training and simultaneous (dual-task) physical and cognitive training on cognition in adults surviving an intensive care unit (ICU) stay.

Design

Systematic mapping.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to examine effects of physical and/or cognitive training on cognitive processes.

Results

Few studies have targeted adults surviving ICU. Independently, physical and cognitive interventions improved cognition in healthy older adults with and without cognitive impairment. Simultaneous interventions may improve executive function. Small sample size and heterogeneity of interventions limited the ability to make inferences.

Conclusion

Literature supports positive effects of single- and dual-task training on recovering cognition in adults. This training could benefit ICU survivors who need to regain cognitive function and prevent future decline.

Relevance to Practice

With the growing number of ICU survivors experiencing cognitive deficits, it is essential to develop and test interventions that restore cognitive function in this understudied population.
The Triangular Dart Flap
Authors: Steele Thomas N. , Blaha Lauren E. , Madan Olivia P. , Walker Nicholas J. , Marks Malcolm W.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Reconstruction of soft tissue defects after skin cancer excision remains a challenge. Options for reconstruction are numerous, including primary repair, local tissue rearrangement, and skin grafts, among others. In this series, the authors present a novel technique: The triangular dart flap. This is a single-stage tissue rearrangement that uses the redundant tissue of the dog-ear to aid in the closure of these wounds.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients undergoing local tissue rearrangements by the senior author from 2009 to 2018. Factors were collected and analyzed, including age, size and cause of defect, comorbidities, smoking history, and postoperative complications.

Results

Twenty-four patients underwent reconstruction with a triangular dart flap for repair of malignant defects. Mean defect size was 7.3 cm2 (0.8–20 cm2), and mean repair size was 29.7 cm2 (6–80 cm2). Initial pathology included basal cell carcinoma (45.8%), melanoma in situ (29.2%), and squamous cell carcinoma (16.7%), among others. Location varied widely among face and extremities. Anesthesia was predominantly local only (79.1%). There were no major complications, and 5 (20.8%) minor complications.

Conclusions

The triangular dart flap is a novel single-stage procedure, generally performed under local anesthesia only, for correction of Mohs defects. By using the redundant tissue of dog-ears to better approximate the wound edges, a tension-free primary closure can be achieved in sensitive areas, such as the nasal tip.
Cesarean Delivery in the Management of Pregnancy Complicated by Burn Injuries
Authors: Breland Andrew , Craft-Coffman Beretta , Thomas Nelda , Lineaweaver William C.
Published: April 2021

Two cases of cesarean delivery in the management of burn injuries in 2 pregnant patients are presented to illustrate current utilization of cesarean delivery for infant rescue in maternal burn care.
Online Reviews in a Major City
Authors: Gibstein Alexander R. , Yang Angela , Thorne Charles , Bradley James P. , Tanna Neil
Published: April 2021

Objective

A large factor influencing a patient’s choice of aesthetic plastic surgeons is online patient reviews.

Methods/Technique

Plastic surgeons whose practices are located in counties within the New York metro area were included. Selected surgeons were divided into private and academic surgeons (defined as having a residency program). For each surgeon, the quantity and quality of their Google reviews were collected.

Results/Complications

A total of 145 aesthetic surgeons from the New York area were included in the study, both private (n = 126) and academic (n = 19). Given the small size of the latter cohort, 19 private aesthetic surgeons were randomly selected, and compared with the academic surgeons, it was shown that private surgeons had both higher average quality and quantity of online patient Google reviews (confidence interval, 95%; P = 0.0223). Similar results were found when comparing all private American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) surgeons (n = 126) with all academic ASAPS surgeons (n = 19); private ASAPS surgeons had a higher average rating and number of reviews when compared with academic surgeons, again representing a statistically significant difference for the quality of online reviews between private and academic surgeons (confidence interval, 95%; P = 0.031975).

Conclusions

There is a statistically significant difference in both the quality and quantity of online ratings for private and academic aesthetic surgeons.
Epidemiology of Craniofacial Pathology in Northern Vietnam Using Digital Platforms
Authors: Kimia Rotem , Thom Dang Hoang , Dinh Phuong Tran , Hung Pham Tuan , Van Son Nguyen , Nguyen Phuong D.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Current disease surveillance in Vietnam relies on underdeveloped electronic medical record (EMR) systems, which are insufficient for timely standardized data collection about craniofacial and cleft pathologies. Concurrently, the World Bank reports Vietnamese mobile cellular subscription rates (per 100 people) of 128, some of the highest in the world. Herein, we discuss the development of a short messaging service (SMS)–based surveillance system based in Hanoi, Vietnam, and its utility in contrast to an EMR-based approach to craniofacial epidemiology study.

Methods

Vietnam National Children's Hospital (VNCH) is a pediatric tertiary care center serving approximately 12 million children. Four plastic surgeons were trained in SMS data entry. The SMS database was designed using FrontlineSMS, a 2-way mobile gateway software application with automated messaging capabilities. The VNCH EMR database was queried for individual demographic data for patients seen by the department from 2010 to 2019.

Results

A corrected prevalence for cleft lip and palate of 0.098% (1 in 1020 live births) was calculated based on EMR data. Six rural provinces greater than 150 km from Hanoi were found to be significantly (P < 0.01) underserved surgically by the VNCH. A significantly (P < 0.01) higher rate of Pierre Robin in Lang Son province and facial clefts in Ha Tinh province were identified. The prospective data collection system received 7 patient data sets over 4 months, resulting in a capture rate of 2.9%.

Conclusions

This feasibility study offers valuable insight into the true cleft and craniofacial prevalence in Vietnam and alternative methods to study in low- and middle-income countries.
Numerical Simulation of Concussive-generated Cortical Spreading Depolarization to Optimize DC-EEG Electrode Spacing for Non-invasive Visual Detection
Authors: Hund Samuel J. , Brown Benjamin R. , Lemale Coline L. , Menon Prahlad G. , Easley Kirk A. , Dreier Jens P. , Jones Stephen C.
Published: April 2021

Background

Cortical Spreading Depolarization (SD) is a propagating depolarization wave of neurons and glial cells in the cerebral gray matter. SD occurs in all forms of severe acute brain injury as documented using invasive detection methods. Based on many experimental studies of mechanical brain deformation and concussion, the occurrence of SDs in human concussion has often been hypothesized. However, this hypothesis cannot be confirmed in humans as SDs can only be detected with invasive detection methods that would require either a craniotomy or a burr hole to be performed on athletes. Typical electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes, placed on the scalp, can detect the possible presence of SD but have not been able to accurately and reliably identify SDs.

Methods

To explore the possibility of a non-invasive method to resolve this hurdle, we developed a finite element numerical model that simulates scalp voltage changes that are induced by a brain-surface SD. We then compared our simulation results with retrospectively evaluated data in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) patients from Drenckhahn et al. (Brain 135:853, 2012).

Results

The ratio of peak scalp to simulated peak cortical voltage, Vscalp/Vcortex, was 0.0735, whereas the ratio from the retrospectively evaluated data was 0.0316 (0.0221, 0.0527) [median (1stquartile, 3rdquartile), n = 161, p < 0.001, one sample Wilcoxon signed rank test]. These differing values provide validation because their differences can be attributed to differences in shape between concussive- and aSAH-SDs, as well as the inherent limitations in human study voltage measurements. This simulated scalp surface potential was used to design a virtual scalp detection array. Error analysis and visual reconstruction showed that 1 cm is the optimal electrode spacing to visually identify the propagating scalp voltage from a cortical SD. Electrode spacings of 2 cm and above produce distorted images and high errors in the reconstructed image.

Conclusion

Our analysis suggests that concussive (and other) SDs can be detected from the scalp, which could confirm SD occurrence in human concussion, provide concussion diagnosis based on an underlying physiological mechanism, and lead to non-invasive SD detection in the setting of severe acute brain injury.
A new tetrakis-substituted pyrazine carboxylic acid, 3,3′,3′′,3′′′-{[pyrazine-2,3,5,6-tetrayltetrakis(methylene)]tetrakis(sulfanediyl)}tetrapropionic acid: crystal structures of two triclinic polymorphs and of two potassium–organic frameworks
Authors: Pacifico Jessica , Stoeckli-Evans Helen
Published: April 2021

Two polymorphs of the title tetrakis-substituted pyrazine carboxylic acid, 3,3′,3′′,3′′′-{[pyrazine-2,3,5,6-tetrayltetrakis(methylene))tetrakis(sulfanediyl]}tetrapropionic acid, C20H28N2O8S4, (H4L1), have been obtained, H4L1_A and H4L1_B. Each structure crystallized with half a molecule in the asymmetric unit of a triclinic P\overline{1} unit cell. The whole molecules are generated by inversion symmetry, with the pyrazine rings being located about inversion centers. The crystals of H4L1_B were of poor quality, but the X-ray diffraction analysis does show the change in conformation of the –CH2—S—CH2—CH2– side chains compared to those in polymorph H4L1_A. In the crystal of H4L1_A, molecules are linked by two pairs of O—H...O hydrogen bonds, enclosing R
2
2(8) ring motifs forming layers parallel to plane (100), which are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds to form a supramolecular framework. In the crystal of H4L1_B, molecules are also linked by two pairs of O—H...O hydrogen bonds enclosing R
2
2(8) ring motifs, however here, chains are formed propagating in the [001] direction and stacking up the a-axis. Reaction of H4L1 with Hg(NO3)2 in the presence of a potassium acetate buffer did not produce the expected binuclear complex, instead crystals of a potassium–organic framework were obtained, poly[(μ-3-{[(3,5,6-tris{[(2-carboxyethyl)sulfanyl]methyl}pyrazin-2-yl)methyl]sulfanyl}propanoato)potassium], [K(C20H27N2O8S4)]
n
(KH3L1). The organic mono-anion possesses inversion symmetry with the pyrazine ring being located about an inversion center. A carboxy H atom is disordered by symmetry and the charge is compensated for by a potassium ion. A similar reaction with Zn(NO3)2 resulted in the formation of crystals of a dipotassium-organic framework, poly[(μ-3,3′-{[(3,6-bis{[(2-carboxyethyl)sulfanyl]methyl}pyrazine-2,5-diyl)bis(methylene)]bis(sulfanediyl)}dipropionato)dipotassium], [K2(C20H26N2O8S4)]
n
(K2H2L1). Here, the organic di-anion possesses inversion symmetry with the pyrazine ring being located about an inversion center. Two symmetry-related acid groups are deprotonated and the charges are compensated for by two potassium ions.
Prioritizing the effective strategies for construction and demolition waste management using fuzzy IDOCRIW and WASPAS methods
Authors: Eghbali-Zarch Maryam , Tavakkoli-Moghaddam Reza , Dehghan-Sanej Kazem , Kaboli Amin
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The construction industry is a key driver of economic growth. However, the adverse impacts of construction and demolition waste (CDW) resulted from the active construction projects on the economy, environment, public health and social life necessitates an appropriate control and management of this waste stream. Developing and promoting the construction and demolition waste management (CDWM) hierarchy program at the strategic level is essential.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims to propose a hybrid decision model that hybridizes the Integrated Determination of Objective Criteria Weights (IDOCRIW) and weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS) under a fuzzy environment.

Findings

The proposed method ranks the potential strategic alternatives by the sustainable development criteria to improve the performance of CDWM. As indicated in the results, the fuzzy approach in the decision-making process enables the transformation of linguistic variables into fuzzy numbers that show uncertainty and ambiguity in real-world systems. Moreover, the close correlation between the final ranking of the proposed methodology and the average priority order of the strategic alternatives obtained by five different multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods implies the validity of the model performance.

Practical implications

This proposed model is an appropriate tool to effectively decide on the development of CDWM from a strategic point of view. It aims to establish an MCDM framework for the evaluation of effective strategies for CDWM according to the indices of sustainable development. Implementing proper operational plans and conducting research in CDWM has the highest priority, and enacting new and more stringent laws, rules and regulations against the production of CDW has secondary priority. This study contributes to the field by optimizing the CDWM by applying the top-priority strategies resulted from the proposed fuzzy hybrid MCDM methodology by the decision-makers or policy-makers to reach the best managerial strategic plan.

Originality/value

In the proposed methodology, the IDOCRIW technique is utilized and updated with the triangular fuzzy numbers for the first time in the literature to derive the weights of sustainable development criteria. The fuzzy WASPAS method is utilized for evaluation and providing a final ranking of the strategic alternatives.
Suicidal thoughts among undocumented migrants in Sweden
Authors: Andersson Lena M.C. , Hjern Anders , Ascher Henry
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Early identification of persons at risk is essential in suicide prevention. Undocumented migrants (UM) live under limited conditions and are to a high degree invisible, both in research and in suicide prevention programmes. The aim of this study was to investigate prevalence rates of suicidal thoughts among UM in Sweden.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study was part of the Swedish Health Research on Undocumented Migrants project (SHERUM). The study population consisted of 104 UM over 18 years of age recruited through informal networks. Data on 112 multiple choice questions was collected via trained interviewers in Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö during 2014–2016. To assess suicidal thoughts (the last two weeks) one item asking about suicidal thought in the Beck Depression Inventory scale (BDI-II) was used. Logistic regression and chi-square analyses were made to identify risk and protective factors.

Findings

Suicidal thoughts were found in 43.2% of the 88 UM that answered the question on suicidal thoughts. Being a parent had some protective influence on the prevalence of suicidal thoughts while the housing situation, having been exposed to crime and having mental illness were all statistically significant risk factors for suicidal thoughts. However, due to low sample size, few variables presented statistically significant differences.

Originality/value

This study presents an alarmingly high prevalence of suicidal thoughts among undocumented migrants in Sweden, a difficult-to reach, vulnerable and rarely studied group. Targeted strategies are imperative to include undocumented migrants in suicidal prevention programmes.
Teaching during COVID-19: faculty members’ perceptions during and after an “exceptional” semester
Authors: Zizka Laura , Probst Gaby
Published: April 2021

Purpose

With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe in March 2020, higher education institutions (HEIs) worldwide were confronted with creating online courses to complete the semester. While emphasizing positive elements such as flexibility and innovative solutions, the literature focused on numerous faculty problems such as online fatigue, emotional well-being and stress. This paper aims to explore faculty perceptions of teaching during the exceptional circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Two surveys, in the first week and at the end of the semester, were conducted at a business school in Switzerland via the program Lima. A total of 19 faculty members participated in the survey. Of the participants, 56.7% responded in the first survey and 70.9% responded in the second.

Findings

The findings revealed that the faculty’s impressions of their online courses remained positive. The most significant issue cited was time. According to faculty estimations, more than ten additional hours per week were spent preparing for online courses. Nonetheless, many faculty members reported interest in continuing online practices in their future courses.

Practical implications

The COVID-19 pandemic pushed HEIs to embrace the digital revolution while teaching in a competence-oriented mode. However, moving forward, HEIs must mitigate the long-term effects by careful planning and evaluating their digital readiness as an institution and offering training for their faculty and students when necessary.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the existing literature by analyzing one stakeholder group, i.e. faculty members, and their perceptions of teaching during a worldwide pandemic.
The image and customer well-being stems from banking activities
Authors: Eshaghi Mohammad Sadegh , Ranjbarian Bahram , Ansari Azarnoush
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study, by applying psychological life-space theory, aims to identify the role of banking activities in customers’ well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a quantitative approach, a two-stage method of structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses. Through a close-ended questionnaire, data were obtained from banks’ customers. A partial least squares regression was used to test both inner and outer models. Sample power software was used to calculate the minimum sample size of the study.

Findings

A new variable namely customer well-being stems from banking activities identified which is assumed to be influenced by bank’s image, perceived value and aroused emotions. It was tested that word of mouth and bank’s marketing activities have impacts on the bank’s image. Moreover, by differentiating the images of different entities, it was proposed that comparative images could be considered as moderating variable. Furthermore, the mediating role of perceived value and aroused emotions are documented.

Originality/value

Applying psychological life-space theory, a new concept that is not limited to the financial aspect of well-being presented and tested. Although researchers in different filed of studies applied this theory, this is the first time that a study presents nominal and operational definitions of the role of banks in customers’ well-being. Moreover, for the first time in the bank marketing literature, images of different entities including consumer’s image, image of bank’s employee and image of bank’s competitors were separated and their causal relations were statistically tested.
Co-design-based learning for entrepreneurs in the digital age
Authors: Laptev Georgy , Shaytan Dmitry
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to adapt the design-based learning (DBL) approach for entrepreneurship education. Having in mind the aim to improve the innovative thinking competence of nascent entrepreneurs that operate at the fuzzy front end of innovation, the research identifies key characteristics of the co-design-based learning (Co-DBL) approach for nurturing entrepreneurs in the digital age.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory research is based on qualitative and quantitative analysis. To get feedback and to evaluate the progress of innovative thinking competence of Co-DBL participants, the pre- and post-co-design workshop surveys were administrated. The statistical analysis of the surveys was carried out to determine the effects of the Co-DBL.

Findings

The research has revealed key dimensions relevant to Co-DBL in entrepreneurial learning (features of the project, facilities for project activities, features of the teaching process, features of learning context and assessment) and found the corresponding characteristics. The results of the current study show the perspective of the suggested Co-DBL approach in entrepreneurial learning to improve creativity, analyticity, intuition and flexibility of thinking of nascent entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new look at co-design that can be applied to entrepreneurship education to enhance innovative thinking, improve the ability of nascent entrepreneurs to identify and create opportunity and to tolerate ambiguity and conditions of uncertainty in the search and development of innovative solutions.