bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Prenatally Diagnosed Dandy-Walker Malformation, Vermian Hypoplasia, and Blake Pouch Cyst
Authors: Venkatesan Charu , Kline- Fath Beth , Horn Paul S. , Poisson Kelsey E. , Hopkin Rob , Nagaraj Usha D.
Published: November 2021

Dandy-Walker continuum, which includes Dandy-Walker malformation, vermian hypoplasia, and Blake pouch cyst, is among the most commonly diagnosed posterior fossa malformation by fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The objective of our retrospective study was to evaluate fetal and postnatal MRI scan and clinical outcomes. Seventy-two patients were identified; 40 patients had postnatal imaging and follow-up (7 Dandy-Walker malformation, 26 vermian hypoplasia, and 7 Blake pouch cyst). Although all patients with Dandy-Walker malformation required ventriculoperitoneal shunts and 66% were intubated at birth, none required tracheostomy tube and 2 of 5 surviving children had no neurologic deficits. Vermian hypoplasia was strongly associated with genetic conditions and cardiac malformations; odds of not ambulating normally were 12 times greater if a syndrome or injury was present. Echocardiogram and genetic screening are recommended with vermian hypoplasia. There is a risk for epilepsy in both Dandy-Walker malformation and vermian hypoplasia. Blake pouch cyst can be complicated by hydrocephalus, but outcome is favorable.
Self-perceived recovery and quality of life in elderly patients surviving ICU-admission for abdominal sepsis
Authors: Cuijpers Anne C.M. , Coolsen Marielle M.E. , Schnabel Ronny M. , Lubbers Tim , van der Horst Iwan C.C. , van Santen Susanne , Olde Damink Steven W.M. , van de Poll Marcel C.G.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Concern for loss of physical performance and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) may raise doubts regarding the meaningfulness of an Intensive Care (ICU) admission in elderly patients. We evaluated self-perceived long-term recovery and satisfaction in elderly surviving an abdominal sepsis related ICU-admission and related this to objective measures of HRQoL.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study was performed in all ICU-survivors with age ≥70 admitted with abdominal sepsis. HRQoL, frailty and self-perceived long-term recovery were measured using the EQ-5D-3L, Groningen Frailty Indicator, and a self-developed questionnaire, respectively.

Results

Of 144 patients admitted, 48 were alive at follow up (2.42 [0.92; 3.83] years), and 29 (60%) returned the survey. Eleven patients out of 29 (38%) recovered to baseline functioning, and reported higher HRQoL compared to unrecovered patients (0.861 [0.807; 1.000] and 0.753 [0.499; 0.779] respectively, p=0.005). Of the unrecovered patients, 53% were satisfied with their functioning, and 94% were willing to return to ICU.

Conclusions

Mortality in elderly patients with abdominal sepsis is high and ICU-admission should be weighed carefully. However, despite substantial functional decline in survivors, it does not necessarily cause self-perceived unsatisfactory functioning, poor HRQoL and unwillingness to receive life-sustaining therapy again. Caution is advised to use an anticipated loss of functioning as an argument to deny an ICU-admission.
The Role of Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS) in Critically Ill Patients With COVID-19: A Multicenter, Cohort Study
Authors: Al Sulaiman Khalid , Aljuhani Ohoud , Al Aamer Kholoud , Al Shaya Omar , Al Shaya Abdulrahman , Alsaeedi Alawi S. , Alhubaishi Alaa , Altebainawi Ali F. , Al Harthi Alaa , Albelwi Shorouq , Almutairi Rahaf , Alsubaie Norah , Alsallum Alanoud , Korayem Ghazwa B. , Alfahed Amjaad , Kensara Raed , Altebainawi Elaf F. , Alenezi Raghdah S. , Alsulaiman Thamer , Al Enazi Huda , Vishwakarma Ramesh , Al Dabbagh Tarek , Bakhsh Umar , Al Ghamdi Ghassan
Published: November 2021

Background: Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can boost the systematic inflammatory response in critically ill patients, causing a systemic hyperinflammatory state leading to multiple complications. In COVID-19 patients, the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) is surrounded by controversy regarding their impacts on viral infections. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ICS in critically ill patients with COVID-19 and its clinical outcomes. Method: A multicenter, noninterventional, cohort study for critically ill patients with COVID-19 who received ICS. All patients aged ≥ 18 years old with confirmed COVID-19 and admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) between March 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 were screened. Eligible patients were classified into two groups based on the use of ICS ± long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) during ICU stay. Propensity score (PS)-matched was used based on patient’s Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, systemic corticosteroids use, and acute kidney injury (AKI) within 24 h of ICU admission. We considered a P-value of < 0.05 statistically significant. Results: A total of 954 patients were eligible; 130 patients were included after PS matching (1:1 ratio). The 30-day mortality (hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval [CI]]: 0.53 [0.31, 0.93], P-value = 0.03) was statistically significant lower in patients who received ICS. Conversely, the in-hospital mortality, ventilator-free days (VFDs), ICU length of stay (LOS), and hospital LOS were not statistically significant between the two groups. Conclusion: The use of ICS ± LABA in COVID-19 patients may have survival benefits at 30 days. However, it was not associated with in-hospital mortality benefits nor VFDs.
Effects of different cooling conditions on friction stir processing of A356 alloy: Numerical modeling and experiment
Authors: Akbari Mostafa , Asadi Parviz
Published: November 2021

In the present work, the effects of in-process cooling are investigated on the material flow, temperature distribution, axial force, wear resistance, and microstructural and mechanical properties of friction stir processed (FSPed) Al-Si aluminum alloy. The finite element method (FEM) was developed for modeling the process, based on the eulerian-lagrangian technique, and then verified by the experimental force and temperature histories. Next, the material flow and temperature distribution during the friction stir process (FSP) with in-process cooling under different conditions were considered. After that, the experimental investigations, including the optical microscopy, hardness, and wear tests, were conducted. Finally, the stir zone (SZ) shape obtained by experiments and simulation model were compared for the FSPed samples without cooling and with air cooling. The material flow achievements reveal that using a coolant affects the material flow in the pin-driven zone more significantly than in the shoulder-driven zone, leading the SZ to change from the basin shape into the V shape. The SZ shapes obtained from the experiments and the simulation model show a good agreement between the shapes of the samples FSPed without cooling and with air cooling. Moreover, experimental results showed that using in-process cooling reduces Si particles' size and thus significantly increases the hardness and wear resistance. The Si particles size is reduced from 10 μm in the base metal to 2.6 μm and 2 μm in the air-cooled and water-cooled samples. Consequently, the wear mass loss reduced almost 28% and 40%, and hardness increased almost 35% and 80% for the air-cooled and water-cooled samples compared to the processed samples without coolant.
Thermal energy transport in thin film flow of nanofluid over a decelerating rotating disk
Authors: Ahmad Latif , Ahmed Jawad , Ahmed Awais
Published: November 2021

The thin film flow in nanotechnology is one of the most modern progresses in the study of thin films. This includes coating with nanocomposite materials, thus providing the materials improved mechanical properties due to a so-called size effect. The ultimate functional properties that can be gained are of high adherence, wear resistance, thermal conductivity, oxidation resistance, higher toughness and hardness. This article studies the transient motion of nanofluid thin film over a disk rotating with angular velocity inversely proportional to the time. The importance of Lorentz force arises due to the axial projection of magnetic flux is studied on thin film flow and heat transfer. Two active mechanisms of nanoparticles, namely thermophoresis and Brownian diffusion, are discussed using Buongiorno model. By adopting a similarity method, the velocity distribution thermal and concentration fields above the rotating disk are simulated numerically and assessed graphically. Numerical illustrations for nanofluid film thickness, skin friction and heat and mass transfer rates are depicted against the impacts of several influential parameters. Results highlight that film thickness reduces with unsteadiness and rotation parameters. The results also spectacle that the involvement of a magnetic beam reduces the velocity of nanofluid film. Further, it is observed that thermophoresis and Brownian motion effects make a better influence in enhancing the heat transfer rate.
Parametric study on active flow control of a transonic axial compressor rotor using endwall synthetic jet
Authors: Wang Guang , Chu Wuli , Zhang Haoguang , Guo Zhentao
Published: November 2021

High-load axial compressor is the mainstream of current compressor design and development. In order to improve the aerodynamic performance of high-load axial compressor, an active flow control method in which a synthetic jet is applied to the endwall is proposed. Taking the transonic axial compressor NASA Rotor 35 as the research object, using a single factor analysis method, the influence of five different excitation positions, three different excitation frequencies, and three different jet peak velocities on the aerodynamic performance of the compressor was studied in turn, and obtained the influence law of the endwall synthetic jet excitation parameters. The results show that all three parameters have important effects on the performance of the compressor. Among the excitation parameters studied in this paper, there is an optimal excitation position of 25% Ca. When excited at this position, the flow margin of the compressor is expanded the most. On the basis of maintaining the optimal excitation position and the maximum jet peak velocity, the calculation results found that the jet frequency has little effect on the compressor’s near stall flow rate, but has a great impact on the total pressure ratio and efficiency. The pressure ratio and efficiency increase with the increase of the excitation frequency. However, there seems to be a threshold of the excitation frequency. Only when the excitation frequency is greater than the threshold can the total pressure ratio and efficiency be higher than the prototype compressor. The jet peak velocity has the smallest impact on the compressor performance. Based on the optimal excitation position and the excitation frequency exceeding the threshold, even if the jet peak velocity is small, the compressor can obtain a higher flow margin, total pressure ratio, and efficiency than the prototype compressor. As the jet peak velocity increases, the performance of compressor can be further improved.
Method for Fabricating Transparent Patient-Specific Vocal Tract Replicas
Authors: Rollins Michael , Oren Liran
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Transparent, patient-specific vocal tract replicas are helpful in research and educational endeavors but challenging to procure. An accessible method for fabricating these models, improving on previously suggested processes, would make them more widely available.

Method

Detailed instructions for fabricating a transparent, patient-specific vocal tract model were addressed. The broad steps were (1) digitally reconstructing (patient-specific) vocal tract geometry, (2) producing a vocal tract mold (using methods such as three-dimensional [3D] printing), and (3) casting transparent material (such as silicone) around the vocal tract mold and removing the mold. The cavities remaining within the cast represented the exact geometry of the vocal tract.

Discussion

A combination of 3D printing and silicone casting can produce useful vocal tract replicas. Several simple changes to previous methods can improve consistency and reduce the labor and cost of production. Limitations and potential modifications to expand the applications of this method are discussed.
A Novel Surgical Method of Reconstruction for Proboscis Lateralis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Boynuyogun Etkin , Ozgur Figen
Published: November 2021

Proboscis lateralis (PL) is a rare congenital craniofacial anomaly and it is represented by rudimentary, tube-like nasal structure measuring 2–3 centimetre (cm) length and generally attaches to medial canthal region. A 22-month-old male patient was referred to our clinic with a PL hanging from the right medial canthus and a coloboma on the medial third of the right lower eyelid. Physical examination revealed that the PL was 4 cm long and 1.5 cm in diameter. There was a blind cavity with dimple at its distal segment. The right side of the nose and the nasal airway was aplastic. Before surgical correction, neuroradiological evaluation should be performed to obtain the characteristics and relationship of the lesion with adjacent structures and associated anomalies Many reconstructive options have been described in the literature, however, these options are insufficient to obtain natural contour and define alar crease, especially. We described the laterally-based skin flap from the medial wall of the left heminose and adapted to the lateral edge of the de-epithelialized skin of PL for defining supra-alar crease.
Do Orofacial Clefts Impair Breastfeeding and Increase the Prevalence of Anemia?
Authors: Miranda-Filho Aluísio Eustáquio de Freitas , Gomes Heloisa de Sousa , Silva Roberta Bessa Veloso , Marques Nelson Pereira , Martelli Júnior Hercílio , Marques Nádia Carolina Teixeira
Published: November 2021

Objective

This study aimed to correlate the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia and breastfeeding with orofacial clefts in children.

Design

Data on the participant profile, presence and type of the cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P), and records on anemia and breastfeeding were collected from patients’ charts, and submitted to statistical analysis by χ2 test ( p < .05; software SPSS 23.0).

Results

Two-hundred and ten files were divided according to: CL/P presence (cleft group;    n = 132) or absence (control group;    n = 78). Group CL/P was subdivided according to the type of cleft: CL/P-I (cleft lip;    n = 35); CL/P-II (cleft lip and palate;    n = 45); CL/P-III (cleft palate;    n = 43); and CL/P-IV (rare orofacial clefts;    n = 9). Group CL/P had significantly more records on anemia ( p = .016) and fewer records on breastfeeding (P<.01) than controls. More records on anemia occurred in CL/P-II ( p = .004) and CL/P-IV ( p = .006) than the control group. The comparison among the orofacial cleft types regarding the anemia records showed no statistically significant differences ( p = .123). Group CL/P-I had more records on breastfeeding than the other cleft types ( p < .01).

Conclusions

Thus, it is suggested that the breastfeeding process is more complex, and the history of anemia is more frequent, in children with cleft lip and palate or rare orofacial clefts than in children without clefts.
Combination of sodium alginate and nitric oxide reduces browning and retains the quality of fresh-cut peach during cold storage
Authors: Huang Dandan , Wang Caiyun , Zhu Shuhua , Anwar Raheel , Hussain Zahoor , Khadija Faheem
Published: November 2021

Fresh-cut peaches are susceptible to browning when exposed to air. Reducing the browning is important to maintain the quality of the fresh-cut peaches. Nitric oxide (NO) as the signal factor can improve the antioxidant capacity of organisms; sodium alginate (SA) is a natural polysaccharide with good antibacterial and film-forming properties. The study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-browning activities of combined application of sodium alginate and nitric oxide on peaches slices preservation. The activities of some browning-related enzymes and antioxidant enzymes and the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and some browning-related components in fresh-cut peaches were determined. Results showed that combined treatment of 1% SA  +  10 μmol/L NO slowed down the decrease in firmness, L*, and SSC, restrained the increase in browning degree and the activities of polyphenol oxidase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, peroxidase, and lipoxygenase. At the same time, it reduced the accumulation of O2•–, ·OH, H2O2, malondialdehyde, and total phenolic, and increased the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase in peach slices. Overall, it was concluded that treatment with 1% SA  +  10 μmol/L NO maintained quality and extended storage life of fresh-cut peaches.
Synthesis and characterization of chitosan/montmorillonite nanocomposites for application as edible coating
Authors: Reis Camily Aparecida , Júnior Mário Guimarães , Moreira Francys Kley Vieira , Marconcini José Manoel , Vaz Lívia Elisabeth Vasconcellos de Siqueira Brandão
Published: November 2021

Edible coating can improve fruits shelf life and, consequently, reduce their waste. Chitosan, which presents a potential for chemical modifications and capacity to form films, can be an alternative for coating due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antimicrobial properties. Chitosan film can be obtained through casting method presenting suitable mechanical properties, such as resistance to traction and elongation, ability to adhere to surfaces and selective permeability to gases, such as O2 and CO2. However, it is highly permeable to water vapor, which can limit its potential coating use. The properties of chitosan films can be improved through the formation of composites by inserting nanoclays as montmorillonite in the polymeric matrix. The objective of this study was to develop and characterize chitosan/montmorillonite nanocomposites for fruit coating aiming for future applications in the field of smart packaging. Nanocomposites were characterized by its microstructure, thermal, mechanical, and physicochemical properties. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated changes in crystallinity with the insertion of montmorillonite. Nanocomposites became more transparent and significantly reduced its water permeability rate with 0.5% w/w montmorillonite addition. Elastic rigidity and tensile strength of the films were improved. Chitosan/montmorillonite nanocomposites demonstrated the potential to improve the storage time of Williams pears.
Comparison of the characteristics and outcomes of traumatic wound dehiscence after penetrating or Lamellar Keratoplasty for Keratoconus
Authors: Al-Othman Ahmed Y , AlDhaheri Huda Saif , Ahmad Khabir , Al-Swailem Samar A
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To examine the incidence, causes, characteristics, and the visual outcome of traumatic wound dehiscence (TWD) after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) compared to lamellar keratoplasty (LKP) for keratoconus.

Methods:

The medical records of all keratoconus patients undergoing TWD repair after PK or LKP over a 7-year period at the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (KKESH), Riyadh were reviewed. Data were collected on patient demographics, interval between keratoplasty and trauma, and characteristics and visual outcomes of TWD.

Results:

During January 2006 to December 2012, 2863 eyes in KKESH underwent PK. Another 1716 eyes underwent LKP. Of these, 55 (1.9%) and 30 (1.7%) sustained TWD, respectively ( p = 0.675). Approximately two-thirds of patients with traumatic wound dehiscence (TWD) were males in both groups (63.6% and 70.0%, respectively). The mean age at trauma was 24.6 ± 6.7 years (range 12–41 years) in the PK group compared with 22.6 ± 6.0 years (range 13–34 years) in the LKP group ( p = 0.166). The median interval between keratoplasty and trauma was 6.2 (the interquartile range (IQR), 10.9) months for the PK group and 4.6 (IQR, 7.4) months for the LKP group ( p = 0.116). At the last follow-up after wound repair, visual acuity was similar between the PK and LKP groups ( p = 0.595).

Conclusion:

In our study, the incidence of TWD after PK and LKP in patients with keratoconus was within the previously reported range of values. All patients undergoing these procedures, especially males, should receive adequate information regarding this lifelong risk, and the need for protective eye-wear and seeking early medical advice when complications occur.
A novel fault-tolerant control strategy based on inverse bicausal bond graph model in linear fractional transformation
Authors: Lounici Yacine , Touati Youcef , Adjerid Smail , Benazzouz Djamel , Chebouba Billal Nazim
Published: November 2021

This article presents the development of a novel fault-tolerant control strategy. For this task, a bicausal bond graph model-based scheme is designed to generate online information to the inverse controller about the faults estimation. Secondly, a new approach is proposed for the fault-tolerant control based on the inverse bicausal bond graph in linear fractional transformation form. However, because of the time delay for fault estimation, the PI controller is used to reduce the error before the fault is estimated. Hence, the required input that compensates the fault is the sum of the control signal delivered by the PI controller and the control signal resulting from the inverse bicausal bond graph for fast fault compensation and for maintaining the control objectives. The novelties of the proposed approach are: (1) to exploit the power concept of the bond graph by feeding the power generated by the fault in the inverse model (2) to suitably combining the inverse bicausal bond graph with the PI feedback controller so that the proposed strategy can compensate for the fault with a very short time delay and stabilize the desired output. Finally, the experimental results illustrate the efficiency of the proposed strategy.
Philanthropic emotional work: Papering over the cracks of unprecedented public education reform
Authors: Sanfuentes Matías , Garretón Matías , Valenzuela Juan Pablo , Díaz Rocío , Montoya Claudio
Published: November 2021

Chile is undertaking an ambitious public education reform, re-centralising the administration of municipal schools in larger territories. This reform is unprecedented, both for the size of the new intermediate-level services ( Servicios Locales de Educación Pública) and the escalation of their bureaucratic complexity, facing widespread organisational problems that cause high stress and labour suffering. We argue that improving emotional working conditions is necessary to accomplish pedagogical goals, but this dimension has received little attention. This article presents a follow-up study focused on school principals and professionals’ emotional and occupational experiences that have worked in the initial two-and-half years of one of the first Servicios Locales de Educación Pública created in the country. The qualitative analysis of interviews reveals how they make sense of organisational dilemmas while crafting solutions for facing structural shortcomings of new institutions. We understand their extraordinary commitment as ‘philanthropic emotional work’, driven by genuine care for children and the nation's future. However, in this effort, they also experience labour suffering and work overload, which may compromise their well-being and the long-term accomplishment of this reform's goals. These observations highlight the need for a reflexive improvement of this reform, recognising emotional work as a valuable resource but unsustainable without appropriate institutional support.
Marxism, methods, and hen’s teeth
Authors: Brass Tom
Published: November 2021

Examined here are claims made in a recent edited volume to provide Marxism with a template for research methods. Downplayed or missing, however, are crucial issues necessary to the realization of this project, including who or what is to be considered Marxist, earlier methodological contributions and prefiguring debate, together with the political ends to which such research is geared. These problems in turn can be traced to misunderstandings of or difficulties with Marxist theory and its key concepts, among them class, the industrial reserve, and unfree labour. In light of the shortcomings, the conclusion is that a Marxist guide to fieldwork methods has yet to be written.
The association between NAFLD and risk of chronic kidney disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cao Ying , Deng You , Wang Jingjing , Zhao Hong , Zhang Jingyu , Xie Wen
Published: November 2021

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NAFLD with different comorbidities and risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and abnormal albuminuria.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 3872 Chinese individuals excluding those with hepatitis B or C infection and absence of alcohol abuse were included in the study. NAFLD was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography. The liver fibrosis was assessed by NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) and fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4). CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and/or abnormal albuminuria (urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio ⩾ 3 mg/mmol). The logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association between NAFLD and NAFLD with different comorbidities and risk of CKD.

Results:

The prevalence of CKD and abnormal albuminuria was higher in individuals with NAFLD than in those without NAFLD (15.8% vs 11.9%, p < 0.001; 14.8% vs 11.0%, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that NAFLD was risk factor of CKD. Notably, after adjustment for sex, age, and DM, NAFLD was associated with 1.31-fold higher risk of prevalent CKD ⩾ 1 ( p < 0.05). NAFLD individuals with elder age, DM, obesity, hypertension, MetS, and advanced liver fibrosis had higher risks of both prevalent CKD and abnormal albuminuria than those without comorbidities.

Conclusions:

NAFLD and NAFLD with traditional comorbidities are strongly associated with risk of prevalence of CKD and abnormal albuminuria. Patients with NAFLD especially those with coexisting comorbidities were recommended to carefully access the development of CKD.
Can acid exposure time replace the DeMeester score in the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux-induced cough?
Authors: Zhu Yiqing , Tang Junjun , Shi Wenbo , Wang Shengyuan , Wu Mingyan , Lu Lihua , Zhang Mengru , Wen Siwan , Shi Cuiqin , Yu Li , Xu Xianghuai
Published: November 2021

Background:

The objective of this study was to compare the predictive accuracy of the acid exposure time (AET) with the DeMeester score (DMS) for gastroesophageal reflux–induced cough (GERC).

Methods:

A total of 277 patients who underwent multichannel intraluminal impedance pH monitoring (MII-pH) were enrolled, and their clinical information and laboratory results were retrospectively analyzed. The diagnostic value of AET for GERC was compared with that of the DMS, symptom association probability (SAP), and symptom index (SI).

Results:

A total of 236 patients met the inclusion criteria, 150 patients (63.65%) were definitely diagnosed with GERC, including 111(74%) acid GERC and 39 (26%) nonacid GERC. The optimal cutoff value of AET for diagnosing GERC was AET > 4.8%, and its diagnostic value was equal to that of DMS > 14.7 (AUC = 0.827 versus 0.818, p = 0.519) and was superior to that of SAP (AUC = 0.827 versus 0.689, p = 0.000) and SI (AUC = 0.827 versus 0.688, p = 0.000). When using both DMS > 14.7 and AET > 4.8% or either of the two for the diagnosis of GERC, the diagnosis rate was not improved over using DMS > 14.7 alone. The diagnostic value of AET and DMS for acid GERC were both high and equivalent (AUC = 0.925 versus 0.922, p = 0.95). The optimal cutoff value of AET for diagnosing acid GERC was AET > 6.2%.

Conclusion:

AET and DMS are both equal in discriminating GERC. A GERC diagnosis should be considered when AET > 4.8%, whereas an acid GERC diagnosis should be considered when AET > 6.2%.
Process mining at Lufthansa CityLine: The path to process excellence
Authors: Böhm Markus , Rott Julian , Eggers Julia , Grindemann Philipp , Nakladal Janina , Hoffmann Maximilian , Krcmar Helmut
Published: November 2021

Process mining is a big data technology, which focuses on the discovery, monitoring, and improvement of business processes, based on real data from information systems. This teaching case describes the objectives of a German airline as it introduces process mining and discusses current and future value potentials of this technology. The case is particularly useful for executive MBA courses on Strategy (the value of IT investments) or master’s-level courses on Business Process Management. This case has three main learning objectives. First, students will evaluate the capabilities of different (technological) approaches to reaching the airline’s business goals and will make a justified decision on the feasibility of implementing process mining. Second, students will analyze the airline’s approach to implementing process mining and the challenges along the way. They will derive lessons learned and discuss approaches to solving challenges. Third, students will evaluate the value potentials of process mining. This will enable the students to make well-informed decisions on technology investments and to discover how these decisions can contribute to business goals. The case is designed to be taught in two formats. In a 90-min lecture, students need to prepare short assignments for classroom discussions. In a 180-min lecture, the assignments are included as group work during the lecture, but they require the students to read the case before class. Teaching Notes, including videos and additional study material to support group work, are available to eligible lecturers upon request.
The datafication revolution in criminal justice: An empirical exploration of frames portraying data-driven technologies for crime prevention and control
Authors: Lavorgna Anita , Ugwudike Pamela
Published: November 2021

The proliferation of big data analytics in criminal justice suggests that there are positive frames and imaginaries legitimising them and depicting them as the panacea for efficient crime control. Criminological and criminal justice scholarship has paid insufficient attention to these frames and their accompanying narratives. To address the gap created by the lack of theoretical and empirical insight in this area, this article draws on a study that systematically reviewed and compared multidisciplinary academic abstracts on the data-driven tools now shaping decision-making across several justice systems. Using insights distilled from the study, the article proposes three frames (optimistic, neutral, oppositional) for understanding how the technologies are portrayed. Inherent in the frames are a set of narratives emphasising their ostensible status as vital crime control mechanisms. These narratives obfuscate the harms of data-driven technologies and evince idealistic imaginaries of their capabilities. The narratives are bolstered by unequal structural arrangements, specifically the unevenly distributed digital capital with which some are empowered to participate in technology development for criminal justice application and other forms of penal governance. In unravelling these issues, the article advances current understanding of the dynamics that sustain the depiction of data-driven technologies as prime crime prevention and law enforcement tools.
The world commerce & contracting principles: Can Asia embrace them?
Authors: Gentugaya Mia G.
Published: November 2021

Negotiating a contract with Asian lawyers for the first time could be a baffling experience. Used to clarity on risk allocation and financial obligations, a Western lawyer is confronted with negotiations driven by consensus and contract provisions based on flexibility and good faith discussions. Musyawarah-mufakat (deliberation and consensus in Bahasa Indonesia) goes beyond ASEAN multilateral agreements and pervade doing business as well.

Embracing the World CC Principles is a constructive step in Asian contract drafting: they are not alien in concept and have counterparts in domestic civil or common law. The ability to quickly agree on the provisions covered by the World CC Principles provides a sense of collaborative relationship — an essential aspect of doing business in Asia. But Asian lawyers have yet to be familiar with the World CC Principles, be willing to embrace them, and advocate the benefits of imbedding the World CC Principles in their business culture.
A Study on Koreans’ Perception of the Word Kkondae
Authors: Bu Hyang-suk , Lee Song Yi
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to understand better how Koreans in their 30s to their 50s perceive the word kkondae using Q-methodology, a research method that reveals the subjectivity of individuals. “Kkondae” traditionally refers to condescending older people and reveals changes between generations in Korean society. Our research results showed four types of perceptions. Type 1 participants believe kkondae are people who wield authority based on age. Type 2 participants see kkondae as people who mistakenly believe their own experiences can be generalized. Type 3 participants view kkondae as self-centered and closed-minded people who think they are superior, while Type 4 participants perceive kkondae as people who lord over others as part of hierarchical relationships. Consequently, the four types of perceptions of kkondae demonstrate that the reasons and ways of expressing conflict situations between groups are changing in Korean society.
The Comparative Dosing and Glycemic Control of Intermediate and Long-Acting Insulins in Adult Patients With Type 1 and 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kabakov Anna , Merker Andrew
Published: November 2021

Objective:

The various basal insulin products possess differences in pharmacokinetics that can significantly impact glycemic control and total daily basal insulin dosing. In addition, there will be instances where transitions between the different long-acting insulins will need to be made. Because every basal insulin product is not interchangeable on a 1:1 unit-to-unit basis, it is important for health care providers to understand the expected dose adjustments necessary to maintain a similar level of glycemic control.

Data Sources:

A Medline and Web of Science search was conducted in September 2021 using the following keywords and medical subjecting headings: NPH, glargine, detemir, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Included articles were those that followed adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus and compared the following types of insulin: “NPH and glargine,” “NPH and detemir,” and “glargine and detemir” for at least 4 weeks, had documented basal insulin (BI) doses, and excluded pregnant patients.

Data synthesis:

Twenty-five articles were found that include adult type 1 and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Once daily NPH can be converted unit-to-unit to glargine or detemir. Twice daily NPH converted to glargine or detemir requires an initial 20% reduction in BI dose. An increase in dose of BI is recommended when transitioning from glargine to detemir. Glargine and detemir consistently resulted in improved glycemic control with lower incidence of hypoglycemic events compared with NPH.

Conclusions:

When transitioning between long-acting insulins, the doses are not always interchangeable on a 1:1 basis. Unit dose adjustments are likely if transitioning between BIs and can influence short-term parameters in the acute care setting and long-term parameters in the outpatient setting.
Research-to-Resource: Applying a Self-Care Framework to Music Education
Authors: Zabanal John Rine A.
Published: November 2021

Self-care is a topic that has gained traction among helping professionals. It is considered a preventive health care measure used to promote physical and mental health as well as personal well-being. In this article, I use a self-care framework created for social workers and adapt it to music educators with the intention of aiding music teachers in practicing and maintaining their own self-care. The self-care framework is categorized into two dimensions—personal and professional self-care—which each contains various domains. Pragmatic strategies grounded in relevant literature in music education are described in each category within the self-care framework. By providing a self-care framework and relevant strategies, I aim to improve knowledge of self-care practices of music teachers.
Gaseous pollutants from a small-scale aerobic biological treatment facility: odor and health risk assessment
Authors: Li Kexian , Xu Xinhong , Lü Fan , He Pinjing , Fang Jingjing
Published: November 2021

Background

Biological treatment technology is good for the recovery of resources and energy from municipal solid waste (MSW) and cutting down biodegradable components in landfill waste. Recently, the aerobic biological treatment of MSW has increased in rural areas of China. These facilities are usually open setup and close to nearby residents, and complaints tend to be received regarding odorous gases. A semi-in-vessel setup facility was built in recent years, and its impact on the environment and personnel is not clear.

Results

Ammonia was the predominant compound released from the windrow and its concentration was one order of magnitude higher than those of other compounds. Terpenes and reduced sulfur compounds (RSCs) persisted throughout the entire active fermentation process, with only slight decreases. The biofilter pool had a greater odor impact on the surrounding neighborhood than the waste unloading and sorting operation. The concentrations of most compounds were reduced by the biofilter pool. Ten major substances that caused odors at the facility were analyzed, where most comprised RSCs. The odor impact of the facility was low, but it was associated with a carcinogenic risk to the operators, thereby indicating the need to improve personal protection.

Conclusions

Large amounts of ammonia and volatile organic compounds were released from the composting units, but they had a low odor impact on the environment because of the semi-in-vessel setup. The odor impact of the facility was low but it was associated with a carcinogenic risk to the operators. This technology can be popularized in rural areas.
Identification of genomic regions affecting grain peroxidase activity in bread wheat using genome-wide association study
Authors: Zhou Zhengfu , Guan Huiyue , Liu Congcong , Zhang Ziwei , Geng Shenghui , Qin Maomao , Li Wenxu , Shi Xia , Dai Ziju , Lei Zhensheng , Wu Zhengqing , Tian Baoming , Hou Jinna
Published: November 2021

Background

Peroxidase (POD) activity plays an important role in flour-based product quality, which is mainly associated with browning and bleaching effects of flour. Here, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on POD activity using an association population consisted with 207 wheat world-wide collected varieties. Our study also provide basis for the genetic improvement of flour color-based quality in wheat.

Results

Twenty quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were detected associated with POD activity, explaining 5.59–12.67% of phenotypic variation. Superior alleles were positively correlated with POD activity. In addition, two SNPs were successfully developed to KASP (Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR) markers. Two POD genes, TraesCS2B02G615700 and TraesCS2D02G583000, were aligned near the QTLs flanking genomic regions, but only TraesCS2D02G583000 displayed significant divergent expression levels (P < 0.001) between high and low POD activity varieties in the investigated association population. Therefore, it was deduced to be a candidate gene. The expression level of TraesCS2D02G583000 was assigned as a phenotype for expression GWAS (eGWAS) to screen regulatory elements. In total, 505 significant SNPs on 20 chromosomes (excluding 4D) were detected, and 9 of them located within 1 Mb interval of TraesCS2D02G583000.

Conclusions

To identify genetic loci affecting POD activity in wheat grain, we conducted GWAS on POD activity and the candidate gene TraesCS2D02G583000 expression. Finally, 20 QTLs were detected for POD activity, whereas two QTLs associated SNPs were converted to KASP markers that could be used for marker-assisted breeding. Both cis- and trans-acting elements were revealed by eGWAS of TraesCS2D02G583000 expression. The present study provides genetic loci for improving POD activity across wide genetic backgrounds and largely improved the selection efficiency for breeding in wheat.
Ulcerative colitis relapse after Helicobacter pylori eradication in a 12-year-old boy with duodenal ulcer
Authors: Fujita Yuji , Tominaga Keiichi , Tanaka Takanao , Sugaya Takeshi , Yoshihara Shigemi
Published: November 2021

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) prevalence is lower in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) than in those without IBD, suggesting that H. pylori plays a protective role in IBD. It has been reported that IBD may occur due to H. pylori eradication; however, it is unclear whether H. pylori eradication increases the incidence of IBD. Moreover, the effect of H. pylori eradication on IBD activity is unclear.

Case presentation

An 11-year-old boy diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) was in clinical remission, with treatment involving 5-aminosalicylic acid. Fecal calprotectin (FC) level had decreased to 33.2 mg/kg, indicating mucosal healing. At age 12, he experienced epigastric pain on an empty stomach, which was relieved with dietary intake. His FC level was elevated without UC symptoms, such as diarrhea and bloody stools. He was diagnosed with H. pylori duodenal ulcer. H. pylori eradication (clarithromycin and amoxicillin for 7 days and a proton-pump inhibitor) led to symptom improvement the day after treatment initiation. However, he developed diarrhea and his FC level remained high despite improvement in duodenal ulcer symptoms and endoscopic findings of H. pylori eradication. Colonoscopy results indicated UC relapse.

Conclusions

H. pylori eradication may worsen UC activity. However, further studies are required as this case report involved only one pediatric patient with increased UC activity after H. pylori eradication.
A biomechanical analysis of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion alone or combined cervical fixations in treating compression-extension injury with unilateral facet joint fracture: a finite element study
Authors: Jin Chen , Wang Zhong , Liu Peng , Liu Yaoyao , Wang Zhanwei , Xie Ning
Published: November 2021

Background

Compression-extension injury with unilateral facet joint fracture is one of the most devastating injuries of subaxial cervical spine. However, it is not yet clear which fixation technique represents the optimal choice in surgical management. This study aims to assess the construct stability at the operative level (C4/C5 cervical spine) following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) alone and combined fixation techniques (posterior-anterior fixations).

Methods

A previously validated three-dimensional C2-T1 finite element model were modified to simulate surgical procedures via the anterior-only approach (ACDF) and combined cervical approach [(transarticular screw, lateral mass screw, unilateral pedicle screw, bilateral pedicle screw) + ACDF, respectively] for treating compression-extension injury with unilateral facet joint fracture at C4/C5 level. Construct stability (range of rotation, axial compression displacement and anterior shear displacement) at the operative level was comparatively analyzed.

Results

In comparison with combined fixation techniques, a wider range of motion and a higher maximum von Mises stress was found in single ACDF. There was no obvious difference in range of motion among transarticular screw and other posterior fixations in the presence of anterior fixation. In addition, the screws inserted by transarticular screw technique had high stress concentration at the middle part of the screw but much less than 500 MPa under different conditions. Furthermore, the variability of von Mises stress in the transarticular screw fixation device was significantly lower than ACDF but no obvious difference compared with other posterior fixations.

Conclusions

Of the five fixation techniques, ACDF has proven poor stability and high structural stress. Compared with lateral and pedicle screw, transarticular screw technique was not worse biomechanically and less technically demanding to acquire in clinical practice. Therefore, our study suggested that combined fixation technique (transarticular screw + ACDF) would be a reasonable treatment option to acquire an immediate stabilization in the management of compression-extension injury with unilateral facet joint fracture. However, clinical aspects must also be regarded when choosing a reconstruction method for a specific patient.
Comparison of airway pressures and expired gas washout for nasal high flow versus CPAP in child airway replicas
Authors: Duong Kelvin , Noga Michelle , MacLean Joanna E. , Finlay Warren H. , Martin Andrew R.
Published: November 2021

Background

For children and adults, the standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is the delivery of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Though effective, CPAP masks can be uncomfortable to patients, contributing to adherence concerns. Recently, nasal high flow (NHF) therapy has been investigated as an alternative, especially in CPAP-intolerant children. The present study aimed to compare and contrast the positive airway pressures and expired gas washout generated by NHF versus CPAP in child nasal airway replicas.

Methods

NHF therapy was investigated at a flow rate of 20 L/min and compared to CPAP at 5 cmH2O and 10 cmH2O for 10 nasal airway replicas, built from computed tomography scans of children aged 4–8 years. NHF was delivered with three different high flow nasal cannula models provided by the same manufacturer, and CPAP was delivered with a sealed nasal mask. Tidal breathing through each replica was imposed using a lung simulator, and airway pressure at the trachea was recorded over time. For expired gas washout measurements, carbon dioxide was injected at the lung simulator, and end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) was measured at the trachea. Changes in EtCO2 compared to baseline values (no intervention) were assessed.

Results

NHF therapy generated an average positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 5.17 ± 2.09 cmH2O (mean ± SD, n = 10), similar to PEEP of 4.95 ± 0.03 cmH2O generated by nominally 5 cmH2O CPAP. Variation in tracheal pressure was higher between airway replicas for NHF compared to CPAP. EtCO2 decreased from baseline during administration of NHF, whereas it increased during CPAP. No statistical difference in tracheal pressure nor EtCO2 was found between the three high flow nasal cannulas.

Conclusion

In child airway replicas, NHF at 20 L/min generated average PEEP similar to CPAP at 5 cm H2O. Variation in tracheal pressure was higher between airway replicas for NHF than for CPAP. The delivery of NHF yielded expired gas washout, whereas CPAP impeded expired gas washout due to the increased dead space of the sealed mask.