bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Preservation of Galata’s St. George Explored through Ottoman Documents
Authors: de Obaldía Vanessa R.
Published: July 2020

In the predominantly Christian district of Galata, churches were vulnerable to the frequent conflagrations which spread through the wooden buildings that predominated the urban landscape. The Latin Catholic Church of St. George was a victim to three fires during the seventeenth century and one in the early eighteenth century. This study aims to explore this history of the church, the preservation of its properties and of its historical claim to the land in the light of Ottoman documents. The status of the church building and land according to Ottoman law in addition to the processes for the acquisition and preservation of its properties carried out within the Ottoman legal framework will be analysed. The different types of Ottoman documents used in the process for the repair or reconstruction of church properties damaged in the fires from the initial petition presented at the Sublime Porte to the post-construction survey will be touched upon.
Some Reflections on the Ancient Metallurgy of Sumhuram (Sultanate of Oman)
Authors: Degli Esposti Michele , Pavan Alexia
Published: July 2020

Multidisciplinary research on the metallurgy-related items and features from the ancient South Arabian harbour of Sumhuram, in southern Oman, have shed light on ancient copper and iron production and use at the site, pointing out what appears to be a definitely unusual practice in particular for what concerns copper alloying. In this paper, the archaeometallurgical data are summarised and discussed with the aim of showing that the existence of a copper working tradition specific to South Arabian centres can be tentatively postulated and that at least two different networks of metal production and exchange probably existed, centred on the opposite sides of the southern Arabian Peninsula.
A review and notes on the phylogenetic relationship of the centipede genus Otostigmus Porat, 1876 (Chilopoda: Scolopendromorpha: Scolopendridae) from Vietnam
Authors: VU HA T. , NGUYEN HUNG D. , LE SON X. , EGUCHI KATSUYUKI , NGUYEN ANH D. , TRAN BINH T.T.
Published: July 2020

The genus Otostigmus Porat, 1876 is reviewed based on recent material collected from parts of Vietnam. A total of nine species are documented and imaged. The phylogeny of the genus Otostigmus is analyzed based on a 603-bp dataset of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The average K2P genetic distance between Otostigmus species is 19%, and eight of nine species are considered to be monophyletic, except O. amballae. The phylogenetic relationship between Otostigmus species necessitates a deeper study with more samples and genetic data. In addition, an identification key to all Otostigmus species is provided for the fauna of Vietnam.
Bopyrinella hadrocoxalis sp. nov. and Loki circumsaltanus Markham (Isopoda: Bopyridae) parasitizing shrimps of the genus Thor (Decapoda: Thoridae) in Mexican waters
Authors: ROMERO-RODRÍGUEZ JESÚS , ÁLVAREZ FERNANDO
Published: July 2020

Two bopyrid species parasitizing shrimps of the genus Thor along the Mexican coasts of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea are known: Bopyrinella thorii, attaching in the hosts’ branchial chambers, and Loki circumsaltanus, attaching to the hosts´ abdomens. Herein, Bopyrinella hadrocoxalis sp. nov. is described, becoming the second described species of the genus in this geographic region. It is found parasitizing Thor manningi in a coastal area in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Loki circumsaltanus is recorded for the first time parasitizing Thor floridanus in Mexican waters; the oostegites, maxilliped and barbula are described and illustrated for the first time.
Four new species of the genus Anillinus Casey (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Anillini) from Alabama, U.S.A., with a revised key to the Alabama species
Authors: SOKOLOV IGOR M.
Published: July 2020

Four new species of anilline ground beetles are described from Alabama. Two species from Jackson County, Anillinus clinei new species, and Anillinus folkertsioides new species, are troglobitic and litter species, respectively. Anillinus hildebrandti new species, is a troglobitic species from a cave in Morgan County. Anillinus humicolus new species, from Jefferson County is supposedly an endogean species. All new species are illustrated with images and drawings; a distribution map and a modified key to the Alabama species are provided. With these new discoveries, the known fauna of Anillinus of Alabama now includes twelve species. Species compositions of Anillinus based on habitat preferences of taxa satisfactorily explain the variations in total species numbers and number of endemics among Alabama and other eastern American states.
LncRNA CEACAMP8 Regulates the Proliferation, Invasion and Migration of Trophoblast Cells
Authors: Jie Li , Zheng Zhangcai , Liu Liping , Liu Yali , Meng Zhaoyan , Wang Cheng , He Xiaochun , Cui Hongmei , Qi Xuehong , Dong Yan , Jiang Yan , Qiu Jie
Published: July 2020

Preeclampsia (PE) is an idiopathic hypertension syndrome occurring after 20 weeks of gestation. Reports showed that lncRNAs expression was abnormal in preeclampsia. We aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA CEACAMP8 in the proliferation, invasion and migration of trophoblast cells
to improve the preeclampsia. The cell transfection effects were determined by RT-qPCR analysis. The proliferation, invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells were detected by CCK-8 assay, transwell assay and wound healing assay. The flow cytometry analysis analyzed the cell cycle. Moreover,
the expression of CDK2, cyclinD1, P21, MMP2, MMP9, E-cadherin, b-catenin and vimentin was determined by the western blot analysis. Consequently, CEACAMP8 inhibition promoted the proliferation, invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells and kept most of the cells in the S phase. The expression
of proteins related to the proliferation, invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells were also changed in accordance with the increase of proliferation, invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells. In addition, lncRNA CEACAMP8 inhibition decreased the expression of E-cadherin and b-catenin,
and increased the vimentin expression to promote the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. And, CEACAMP8 overexpression could reverse the above changes. This study indicated that CEACAMP8 inhibition promoted the proliferation, invasion and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells and lncRNA CEACAMP8 overexpression
reversed.
Assessment of Efficacy and Safety of Z-Shaped Skin Flap, Posterior Release Combined with External Fixation for Severe Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita and Flexion Deformity
Authors: Haoqi Cai , Haiqing Cai , Zhigang Wang
Published: July 2020

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Z-shaped skin flap, posterior release combined with external fixation for children diagnosed with severe arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and flexion deformity. Methods: Five children (10 knees) with AMC complicated with severe
flexion contracture of >40 degrees were enrolled and subject to posterior Z-shaped flap, posterior release combined with external fixator technique. After the operation, external fixation bracket was used to fix the knee joint. Results: The degree of average knee extension was increased
up to 25.5 degrees after the soft tissue release. The knee joint could be completely straightened after using wearing the external fixator for 12.3 d on average. No distal femur osteotomy was performed. The average time of wearing the external fixator was 43.1 d. During an average of 19.2-month
follow-up, children could independently walk in the community area and 1 case could walk at home. No child recurred during postoperative follow-up. Conclusion: The combined technique of Z-shaped skin flap, posterior release and external fixation is an efficacious and safe for children diagnosed
with severe arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and flexion deformity. During the short-term follow-up, the time of external fixator wear is significantly shortened, the incidence of postoperative complications is lowered and the recurrence rate is equally reduced.
The Role of Integrin-Linked Kinase in Regulating Bone Differentiation of Metabolic Syndrome-Derived Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Through Autophagy
Authors: Zhang Yonggang , Wang Junqi , Yang Junqi , Liu Peng , Wang Kunzheng , Guo Yamei
Published: July 2020

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can differentiate into osteogenesis. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) regulates several biological processes. However, whether ILK affects metabolic syndrome (MS)-derived BMSCs differentiation remains unclear. SD rats were divided into control
group and MS group. Diabetic rat model was prepared. BMSCs were divided into control group, MS group and ILK group, in which ILK plasmid was transfected into BMSCs from MS group followed by analysis of ILK, Bcl-2, Bax, RUNX2 and OPN expression by real time PCR, BMSCs proliferation by MTT assay,
BMSCs apoptosis, expression of Beclin-3 and LC-3 by Western blot as well as secretion of IL-1β and IL-6 by ELISA. MS group showed significantly reduced BMSCs proliferation, elevated Caspase 3 activity, downregulated Bcl-2, RUNX2 and OPN expression, upregulated Bax level and increased
IL-1β and IL-6 secretion as well as decreased Beclin-3 and LC-3 expression compared to control group (P < 0.05). BMSCs with ILK overexpression in high glucose presented significantly promoted BMSCs proliferation, decreased Caspase 3 activity, increased Bcl-2, RUNX2 and
OPN expression, decreased Bax expression and IL-1β and IL-6 secretion as well as reduced Beclin-3 and LC-3 expression compared to MS group (P < 0.05). ILK expression in MS-derived BMSCs is decreased. ILK overexpression in BMSCs can promote autophagy, inhibit apoptosis
and inflammation, and promote their differentiation into osteoblasts.
miR-211 Reduces the Degradation of Articular Cartilage Matrix by Targeting Matrix Metalloproteninase 9
Authors: Tian Yumei , Wang Jian
Published: July 2020

Matrix metalloproteninase 9 (MMP9) promotes osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage matrix degradation. Abnormal miR-211 expression is associated with OA. Bioinformatics analysis showed a targeted relationship between miR-211 and MMP9 mRNA 3′-UTR. Our study intends to evaluate miR-211’s
role in the destruction of chondrocyte matrix in OA model rats. The OA model rats were divided into OA group, OA group+agomir-NC group, OA group+agomir-211 group, followed by analysis of the arthritis Mankin score, Hyp and IL-1β content by ELISA, MMP-9 and COL2A1 expression by
western blot and miR-211 level by qRT-PCR. The cartilage tissues were divided into control group, IL-1β+ agomir-NC group, IL-1β+ agomir-211 group, and the expression of MMP-9 and COL2A1 in chondrocytes were detected. Compared with Sham group, IL-1β and Hyp
levels in the joint cavity fluid of the OA group were significantly increased and miR-211 expression was significantly decreased with increased MMP9 expression and decreased COL2A1 expression. Injection of agomir-211 into the joint cavity of OA rats significantly reduced MMP9 expression in
cartilage tissue, decreased Hyp content in the joint cavity fluid, increased COL2A1 expression, and decreased Mankin score and cartilage damage. IL-1β treatment significantly up-regulated MMP9 expression and decreased COL2A1 expression; miR-211 overexpression attenuated IL-1β-induced
cartilage matrix degradation and cartilage destruction. miR-211 plays a role in regulating MMP9 expression and promoting OA. miR-211 overexpression inhibits MMP9 expression, reduces the degradation of cartilage matrix and increases collagen synthesis, thus ameliorating OA development.
Application of a Serrated Palmar Promoted Flap to Treat Camptodactyly
Authors: Wang Juntao , Cao Lu , Sun Yuliang , Xu Qingjia , Cui Yidong , Zhu Lei
Published: July 2020

Objective: Most camptodactyly patients require surgical treatment with skin-grafting, but the result remains unsatisfactory. The serrated palmar promoted flap was explored to treat camptodactyly as a new strategy for surgical treatment. We will make a retrospective analysis of
the treatment effect after serrated palmar promoted flap. Methods: A total of 12 children (five males and seven females) with camptodactyly, who had a mean age of 5.7 years old, were treated with serrated palmar promoted flaps between 2013 and 2016 in our department. Five children had little
finger involvement, while seven children had multiple digital involvement. All patients (20 fingers) received a serrated palmar promoted flap, a zigzag incision was made in the lateral side, and a V-Y flap was designed in the palmar. Then, the abnormal subcutaneous fibrous cords were cut,
and the palmar flap was promoted to distal end, accompanied by PDP joint extension. Skin grafting was also performed for some severely contracted fingers. The total passive motion (TPM) and total active motion (TAM) of the proximal interphalangeal joints were preoperatively measured and calculated
at each follow-up. Results: At postoperative follow-up 18 months, all flaps survived. All digitals met the cosmetic and function requirement, and the flexion and extension of the digitals were significantly improved. The mean TPM and TAM was 41 and 25 degrees preoperatively, respectively,
and 95 and 65 degrees at final follow-up, respectively. One patient exhibited adhesion after surgery, but improved after functional exercise. Conclusion: The application of a serrated palmar promoted flap to treat camptodactyly is a simple and practical method, which results in minimal
trauma and good function. This procedure is suitable for patients with moderate-severe contractures.
Prevalence and predictors of suicidal thoughts and behaviours among Australian police and emergency services employees
Authors: Kyron Michael J , Rikkers Wavne , Page Andrew C , O’Brien Patrice , Bartlett Jennifer , LaMontagne Anthony , Lawrence David
Published: July 2020

Objective:

This study presents rates of suicide thoughts and behaviours of police and emergency services personnel around Australia. In addition, it examines personal (i.e. mental health, substance use) and working environment risk and protective factors.

Method:

A stratified random sample of personnel from 33 Australian emergency services organisations were invited to participate in a mental health and wellbeing survey. In total, 14,868 Australian ambulance, fire and rescue, police and state emergency services employees participated and self-reported any suicidal thoughts, plans and/or attempts in the 12 months prior to the survey or at any stage in their life. Logistic regressions assessed factors associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

Results:

Employees reported notably higher rates of suicidal thoughts and plans than the general Australian adult population, but not attempts. Male, single/divorced, non-heterosexual or longer-serving employees reported higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviours across each sector. Perceptions of stigma regarding mental health conditions from others in the workplace, negative impact of work on one’s private life and low meaning of work were associated with suicidal thoughts, while bullying significantly differentiated who planned and attempted suicide from those who reported suicidal thoughts only. Higher resilience and social support were associated with lower suicidal thoughts, while intermittent explosive anger and illegal drug use were associated with higher rates of suicidal thoughts. Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms significantly differentiated who planned suicide, while misuse of prescription drugs and psychological distress differentiated who attempted suicide from those who only reported suicidal thoughts.

Conclusion:

Amid inherently stressful occupations, it is important that workplaces function in a way that supports their personnel. Access to mental health services should be promoted and readily available to personnel.
Implementing a Digital Strategy: Learning from the Experience of Three Digital Transformation Projects
Authors: Correani Alessia , De Massis Alfredo , Frattini Federico , Petruzzelli Antonio Messeni , Natalicchio Angelo
Published: July 2020

The rapid growth of digital technologies and the extraordinary amount of data that devices and applications collect each day are increasingly driving companies to radically transform the business architecture through which they create and appropriate value. However, companies may fail to extract value from digital transformation due to the disconnection between strategy formulation and strategy implementation. Through the analysis of three case studies of firms that digitally transformed their business—namely ABB, CNH Industrial, and Vodafone—this article presents a framework than can help companies implement their digital transformation strategy and thereby renovate their business model.
Micromechanical analysis of longitudinal and shear strength of composite laminae
Authors: Vignoli Lucas L , Savi Marcelo A , Pacheco Pedro MCL , Kalamkarov Alexander L
Published: July 2020

The analysis of several micromechanical models for estimating strength of composite laminae is presented. Longitudinal tensile, compressive and in-plane onset shear strengths are analytically estimated and compared with experimental data available in the literature. The tensile longitudinal load predominantly induces rupture of fibers. On the other hand, the compressive strength is highly influenced by fiber misalignment, inducing a wide range of failure mechanisms. The material response to in-plane shear presents a strong nonlinear response. The estimation of longitudinal tensile strength based on the rule of mixture approaches is compared with 27 experimental data. A novel improvement is proposed assuming that in situ strength of fiber is smaller than fiber strength measured individually due to manufacturing induced damage. For the in-plane shear, 6 models are compared with 10 experimental stress-strain curves, including a novel closed-form expression based on the concentric cylinders model. Finally, for the longitudinal compressive strength, 8 micromechanical models, including a novel model to estimate misalignment effect in fiber crushing, are compared with 61 experimental data are analyzed. Results indicate that the minimal average error for the longitudinal tensile strength is 12.4% while for the compressive strength it is 15%. For the shear strength, the closest prediction depends on the strength definition and the proposed damage onset strength presents the best predictions. In general, the newly proposed models present the best estimations compared with the other models.
An ‘Exceedingly Delicate Undertaking’: Sino-American Science Diplomacy, 1966–78
Authors: Millwood Pete
Published: July 2020

In the early twentieth century, Chinese science flourished, buoyed by the country’s active connections to the global scientific community. No country developed deeper ties to Chinese scientists than the United States (US) – until cooperation ceased after the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1949.

This article examines efforts by American scientists to rebuild a relationship with their Chinese colleagues and to reintegrate China into global science. It traces how a transnational American organization – the Committee on Scholarly Communication with the PRC (CSCPRC) – initially failed but ultimately succeeded in extending the frontier of their epistemic community by reopening China to American scientists.

Drawing on records from this non-governmental organization, interpolated with Chinese and US government sources, this article argues that the CSCPRC’s failures and successes depended on how effectively they adapted their scholarly initiative to changing US-China diplomatic ties. Scientists were not beholden to politics, however; indeed, they made a critical contribution to the development of Sino-American diplomacy, helping reestablish official relations in 1978.

This article further reveals the transnational origins of China’s opening to the world and subsequent meteoric economic development, as well as the nexus between science and America’s historic ‘Open Door’ policy.
Physical Fitness and Dynamic Balance in Medication Naïve Turkish Children with ADHD
Authors: Buker Nurullah , Salik Sengul Yesim , Ozbek Aylin
Published: July 2020

This study investigated physical fitness levels and dynamic balance in medication-naïve children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Participants were 24 medication-naïve Turkish children with ADHD (4 girls, 20 boys) and 19 typically developing (TD) Turkish children (4 girls, 15 boys). We measured physical fitness levels with the Eurofit Test Battery, body composition with the Inbody 720 Body Composition Analyzer, cognitive attention with the Stroop Test, and dynamic balance with the Y-Balance Test. We found significantly poorer dynamic balance and both upper extremity and running fitness problems among the medication-naïve Turkish children with ADHD compared to the TD group ( p = 0.002; p = 0.032; p = 0.002). It may be important to adress dynamic balance and physical fitness when treating children with ADHD.
Pre-service EFL Teachers’ Conceptions of Learning about SLA through online Discussion Forums and WhatsApp in Blended Learning
Authors: Sandoval-Cruz Rosa Isela , Navarro Rangel Yadira , González Calleros Juan Manuel , Perales-Escudero Moisés Damián
Published: July 2020

Online discussion forums are a popular learning tool commonly used in blended learning. Despite the widespread use of this tool, pre-service English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers’ conceptions of learning disciplinary concepts through online-discussion forums are under researched. This study aims at filling this gap by describing the conceptions of learning through such forums held by a group of 16 Mexican, pre-service EFL teachers enrolled in an undergraduate Second Language Acquisition course. Interviews were conducted and analysed using phenomenography. We found three experiential categories: Going over the content, Expanding knowledge metacognitively, and Negotiating knowledge. These involve different ways of approaching course material, writing and responding to messages, and relating to the teacher. WhatsApp was used as a parallel forum to negotiate potential conflicts without the instructor’s presence. The results suggest the need to train pre-service teachers to use online discussion forums (ODFs) with a deep approach to learning that includes meaning negotiation.
International Tourism and Outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19): A Cross-Country Analysis
Authors: Farzanegan Mohammad Reza , Gholipour Hassan F. , Feizi Mehdi , Nunkoo Robin , Andargoli Amir Eslami
Published: July 2020

This study examines the relationship between international tourism and COVID-19 cases and associated deaths in more than 90 nations. We use a cross-country regression analysis and find a positive correlation between international tourism and the cumulated level of COVID-19 confirmed cases and death by April 30, 2020. Our regression analyses show that countries exposed to high flows of international tourism are more prone to cases and deaths caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. This association is robust even after controlling for other socioeconomic determinants of COVID-19 outbreak and regional dummies. Based on our estimations, a 1% higher level of inbound and outbound tourism is associated with 1.2% and 1.4% higher levels of confirmed COVID-19 cases and death, respectively, controlling for other factors. When we normalize the number of cases and death by size of population, the statistical significance remains robust, especially for the COVID-19 deaths, while the effect size reduces.
The Racialized and Gendered Workplace: Applying an Intersectional Lens to a Field Experiment on Hiring Discrimination in Five European Labor Markets
Authors: Di Stasio Valentina , Larsen Edvard N.
Published: July 2020

We draw on a field experiment conducted in five European countries to analyze hiring discrimination on the basis of gender and race. We adopt an intersectional perspective and relate existing theories on gender and racial discrimination to recent work on the gendered stereotype content of different races. We find that employers prefer hiring white women over men for female-typed jobs. By contrast, women of color do not have any advantage over men of the same race. Moreover, black and Middle Eastern men encounter the strongest racial discrimination in male-typed jobs, where it is possible that their stereotyped masculinity, made salient by the occupational context, is perceived as threatening. Overall, we argue that the employment chances of applicants of different gender and racial backgrounds are highly dependent on their perceived congruence (or lack thereof) with the feminine or masculine traits of the job they apply to.
Building Consumer-based Brand Equity for Fast Fashion Apparel Brands in the Indian Consumer Market
Authors: Sharma Rajesh
Published: July 2020

Brand equity is a key marketing concept for academia as well as practitioners due to its ability to provide competitive advantage to firms. In the recent past, fast fashion branding has drawn noticeable attention. Since brand equity elements can impact consumers’ perceptions as well as behaviours, firms in fast fashion market want to understand the role of these elements for designing and implementing sustainable brand strategy. By using Aaker’s brand equity model, research was conducted on a sample of population based in the national capital of India and north Indian cities. The survey confirmed that the creation of brand equity is dependent on four brand equity dimensions and that these dimensions are interdependent. The findings show significant, positive and direct impact of brand awareness on brand personality, brand personality on perceived quality and perceived quality on brand loyalty. In addition, brand awareness, brand personality, perceived quality and brand loyalty have significant, positive and direct impact on consumer-based brand equity (CBBE). The current study provides empirical evidence of impact of select brand equity dimensions on each other and all brand equity dimensions on brand equity. This study provides key insights for developing strategies to strengthen CBBE.
Optimising management information systems for Local Economic Development practice in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Majola Priscilla X
Published: July 2020

Local Economic Development is at the epicentre of South Africa’s growth, and government is emphasising its implementation in policies, strategies and developmental goals of the country. Therefore, different government institutions, private sector entities, civil society organisations and even communities have been tasked with the implementation of Local Economic Development in their local areas. However, in reviewing the implementation processes, there is evidence of a lack of information sharing amongst all respective stakeholders as well as information quality constraints relating to relevant, accurate and up-to-date information regarding Local Economic Development implementation. The research in this paper undertook an exploratory approach aimed at identifying and establishing how a management information system can be customised to be used by all relevant Local Economic Development stakeholders within the province of KwaZulu-Natal and a framework was produced. A qualitative design was utilised through conducting 16 in-depth interviews with Local Economic Development managers from three government departments and district municipalities and one metropolitan municipality in KwaZulu-Natal and two development agencies. The overall findings of the paper revealed that there is currently no integrated management information system in place for Local Economic Development stakeholders to create, store and share critical information required for effective and efficient economic development practice. Results imply that such information sharing could, in turn, enhance Local Economic Development implementation in various ways if designed according to the needs of the users. Recommendations include each stakeholder to address internal-oriented data-management techniques for information management strategy or culture.
The Diagnostic Yield of CT Urography in the Workup of Hematuria With Negative Cystoscopy
Authors: Common Jessica , Ramonas Milita , Alabousi Abdullah
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

To determine the diagnostic yield of computed tomography urography (CTU) in patients evaluated for hematuria with negative cystoscopy and to assess the added value of CTU when compared with ultrasound (US) in this patient population.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted of patients who underwent CTU within 12 months of negative cystoscopy for workup of hematuria at our institution from January 2016 to December 2017. Computed tomography urography findings were recorded and compared to clinical diagnoses to determine diagnostic yield. Computed tomography urography and US findings were compared in patients who underwent both examinations. Patient characteristics (age, sex, smoking history, and hematuria subtype) were reported.

Results:

A total of 657 patients met the inclusion criteria, including 108 patients aged 50 years and younger. No cause for hematuria was identified in 41% of patients overall and 58% of patients aged 50 years and younger. The most common diagnoses were benign prostatic hyperplasia and urolithiasis, accounting for 25% and 21% of patients, respectively; 0.6% of patients were diagnosed with an upper urinary tract malignancy, all older than 50 years. Although US was superior or equal to CTU for diagnosis in 83% of patients who underwent both examinations, US had a 0% sensitivity for detection of upper urinary tract malignancy.

Conclusion:

The low diagnostic yield of CTU and low prevalence of upper urinary tract malignancy in patients evaluated for hematuria with negative cystoscopy, particularly those aged 50 years and younger, call into question the appropriateness of multiphasic CTU as a first-line imaging modality in this population.
RSNA Expert Consensus Statement on Reporting Chest CT Findings Related to COVID-19: Interobserver Agreement Between Chest Radiologists
Authors: Byrne Danielle , Neill Siobhan B. O’ , Müller Nestor L. , Müller C. Isabela Silva , Walsh John P. , Jalal Sabeena , Parker William , Bilawich Ana-Maria , Nicolaou Savvas
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

To assess the interobserver variability between chest radiologists in the interpretation of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) expert consensus statement reporting guidelines in patients with suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia in a setting with limited reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction testing availability.

Methods:

Chest computed tomography (CT) studies in 303 consecutive patients with suspected COVID-19 were reviewed by 3 fellowship-trained chest radiologists. Cases were assigned an impression of typical, indeterminate, atypical, or negative for COVID-19 pneumonia according to the RSNA expert consensus statement reporting guidelines, and interobserver analysis was performed. Objective CT features associated with COVID-19 pneumonia and distribution of findings were recorded.

Results:

The Fleiss kappa for all observers was almost perfect for typical (0.815), atypical (0.806), and negative (0.962) COVID-19 appearances ( P < .0001) and substantial (0.636) for indeterminate COVID-19 appearance ( P < .0001). Using Cramer V analysis, there were very strong correlations between all radiologists’ interpretations, statistically significant for all (typical, indeterminate, atypical, and negative) COVID-19 appearances ( P < .001). Objective CT imaging findings were recorded in similar percentages of typical cases by all observers.

Conclusion:

The RSNA expert consensus statement on reporting chest CT findings related to COVID-19 demonstrates substantial to almost perfect interobserver agreement among chest radiologists in a relatively large cohort of patients with clinically suspected COVID-19. It therefore serves as a reliable reference framework for radiologists to accurately communicate their level of suspicion based on the presence of evidence-based objective findings.
Development and Validation of a Brief Form of the Childhood Adversities Questionnaire Among a Population of Mood Disorders
Authors: Li Muzi , Cassis Tamara , D’Arcy Carl , Low Nancy , Meng Xiangfei
Published: July 2020

Childhood adversities have significantly negative consequences on physical and mental health. The Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse Questionnaire, Version 3 (CECA.Q3) interview, as an extended version of the CECA.Q, is widely used in the assessment of childhood adversities. Although its reliability and validity have been demonstrated, the application of CECA.Q3 is limited due to its intensive and lengthy interview. This article aimed to develop and validate a brief form of the CECA.Q3 (CECA.Q3-BF) among a population of mood disorders. Data analyzed were from a clinical sample of 210 patients with mood disorders. Data were randomly split into training and testing datasets. The training data set was used for scale reduction by applying principal component factor analysis, while the testing one was used for cross-validation to examine whether the CECA.Q3-BF could have a good yield of accuracy. The optimal cutoff points of the CECA.Q3 were also tested. Overall, four out of eight subscales had items reduction without compromising their accuracy of measurements for childhood adversities. They are Antipathy (reduced by four items), Neglect (reduced by five items), Psychological Abuse (reduced by 15 items), and Role Reversal (reduced by 11 items). The CECA.Q3-BF removed 35 items (35/100, 35%) from the full CECA.Q3. The accuracy of CECA.Q3-BF was validated in the testing dataset. The CECA.Q3-BF offers a brief but good accuracy of measure for childhood adversities. Future studies are warranted to further validate this brief form. The CECA.Q3-BF is expected to improve the application of CECA.Q3 in clinical and epidemiological surveys, as it significantly reduces the length of the interview and therefore has better compliance.
A Qualitative Study of Intimate Partner Violence Among Young Gay and Bisexual Men
Authors: Stults Christopher B. , Brandt Stephan A. , Hale Jonathan F. , Rogers Nicholas , Kreienberg Anna E. , Griffin Marybec
Published: July 2020

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is prevalent among young gay and bisexual men (YGBM) and is associated with physical and mental health problems, as well as deleterious psychosocial conditions. Most previous studies of IPV among YGBM have been quantitative in nature and have not examined the numerous subtypes of IPV, the chronicity of IPV experiences, and how is IPV manifested in the context of these same-sex relationships. Thus, a qualitative approach may be useful in exploring these multidimensional and understudied experiences. The present qualitative study sought to (a) explore dimensions of IPV victimization, perpetration, and bidirectional IPV among a sample of ( n = 26) YGBM living in New York City and (b) explore the chronicity of IPV experiences among these YGBM. Participants were recruited from an ongoing cohort study of YGBM. Participants completed semistructured interviews that included questions about IPV victimization, perpetration, and bidirectional IPV. A modified version of the consensual qualitative research method was used to analyze the data. The YGBM in this study reported numerous forms of physical, psychological, sexual, and financial IPV victimization and perpetration. Bidirectional experiences of IPV were common. The various subtypes of IPV victimization and perpetration are explored in detail in this manuscript. In addition, many participants reported multiple experiences of abuse within the same relationship, and some participants experienced a pattern of abusive relationships over time. This study corroborates findings from quantitative studies, which indicate that IPV is a prevalent and significant health problem among YGBM, and one that warrants additional attention from researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers. Furthermore, this study adds rich qualitative data to the existing literature—data that can be used to help develop and refine future measures of IPV that are tailored for use with YGBM.
Sexual Violence Prevalence and Related Pregnancy Among Girls and Young Women: A Multicountry Analysis
Authors: Stamatakis Caroline E. , Sumner Steven A. , Massetti Greta , Kress Howard , Basile Kathleen C. , Marcelin Louis Herns , Cela Toni , Wadonda-Kabondo Nellie , Onotu Dennis , Ogbanufe Obinna , Chipimo Peter J. , Conkling Martha , Apondi Rose , Aluzimbi George
Published: July 2020

This study aims to quantify the prevalence of forced sex, pressured sex, and related pregnancy among adolescent girls and young women in five low- and middle-income countries. Nationally representative, cross-sectional household surveys were conducted in Haiti, Malawi, Nigeria, Zambia, and Uganda among girls and young women aged 13 to 24 years. A stratified three-stage cluster sample design was used. Respondents were interviewed to assess prevalence of sexual violence, pregnancy related to the first or most recent experience of forced or pressured sex, relationship to perpetrator, mean age at sexual debut, mean age at pregnancy related to forced or pressured sex, and prevalence of forced/coerced sexual debut. Frequencies, weighted percentages, and weighted means are presented. The lifetime prevalence of forced or pressured sex ranged from 10.4% to 18.0%. Among these adolescent girls and young women, the percentage who experienced pregnancy related to their first or most recent experience of forced or pressured sex ranged from 13.2% to 36.6%. In three countries, the most common perpetrator associated with the first pregnancy related to forced or pressured sex was a current or previous intimate partner. Mean age at pregnancy related to forced or pressured sex was similar to mean age at sexual debut in all countries. Preventing sexual violence against girls and young women will prevent a significant proportion of adverse effects on health, including unintended pregnancy. Implementation of strategies to prevent and respond to sexual violence against adolescent girls and young women is urgently needed.
The role of multiwall carbon nanotubes on physical, mechanical and rheological properties of poly(lactic acid)/natural rubber/CNT hybrid systems
Authors: Salehi Mohammad Mahdi , Hakkak Fatemeh
Published: July 2020

The main objective of the present work was to study the role of carbon nanotube (CNT) on the microstructure development and physical, mechanical, and rheological properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/natural rubber (NR)/CNT hybrid nanocomposites. The PLA/NR blend samples with constant blend ratio (90/10) were prepared by melt mixing in a laboratory internal mixer at a temperature of 190°C. The behavior of the PLA/NR blend was examined depending on the CNT content (0.5–6 wt%). The droplet size and droplet size distribution of the NR phase decreases with the increase in CNTs content. This could be explained in terms of compatibilizing effect of CNT and the changing of the viscosity ratio of the blend phases. The development of the microstructure and the physical properties of the blend were also investigated according to the CNT contents by measuring the linear viscoelasticity. The elongational behavior and mechanical properties of the blends were strongly dependent on the location of the CNT. The CNT worked as an efficient compatibilizer and also it worked as a reinforcing filler making the matrix more rigid.
Determination of methylmalonic acid, 2-methylcitric acid, and total homocysteine in dried blood spots by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry: A reliable follow-up method for propionylcarnitine-related disorders in newborn screening
Authors: Hu Zhenzhen , Yang Jianbin , Lin Yiming , Wang Junjuan , Hu Lingwei , Zhang Chao , Zhang Yu , Huang Xinwen
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Determination of methylmalonic acid, 2-methylcitric acid, and total homocysteine in dried blood spots by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry has usually been used as a second-tier test to improve performance of newborn screening for propionylcarnitine-related disorders. However, factors that potentially affect its detection results have not been investigated, and we aimed to evaluate these influencing factors and explore their potential utility in newborn screening and initial follow-up for propionylcarnitine-related disorders.

Methods

This study comprised a prospective group (1998 healthy infants, to establish cutoff values and investigate the influencing factors) and a retrospective group (804 suspected positive cases screened from 381, 399 newborns for propionylcarnitine-related disorders by tandem mass spectrometry, to evaluate the performance of newborn screening and initial follow-up).

Results

Cutoff values for methylmalonic acid, 2-methylcitric acid, and total homocysteine were 2.12, 0.70, and 10.05 µmol/l, respectively. Concentration of methylmalonic acid, 2-methylcitric acid, and total homocysteine in dried blood spots is not impacted by sex, age, birth weight, gestational age, or dried blood spot storage time. A total of 75 of 804 cases were screened positive by combined tandem mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, thus eliminating 90% of the false positives without compromising sensitivity. Eighteen propionylcarnitine-related disorders were successfully identified, including one CblX case missed in the initial follow-up by tandem mass spectrometry.

Conclusions

Methylmalonic acid, 2-methylcitric acid, and total homocysteine detected in dried blood spots by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry is a reliable, specific, and sensitive approach for identifying propionylcarnitine-related disorders. We recommend this assay should be performed rather than tandem mass spectrometry in follow-up for propionylcarnitine-related disorders besides second-tier tests in newborn screening.
Sociodemographic Factors That Influence the Choice to Pursue Nasoalveolar Molding: One Pediatric Hospital’s Experience
Authors: Kimia Rotem , Butler Paris D. , Guajardo Isabella , Magee Leanne , Lowe Kristen , Scott Michelle , Wes Ari , Jackson Oksana A.
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To identify demographic factors that influence choosing nasoalveolar molding (NAM) in the treatment of cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL±P), and NAM treatment compliance.

Design:

This work is a retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Tertiary pediatric hospital.

Patients, Participants:

One hundred forty-nine patients with a diagnosis of unilateral complete CL±P receiving treatment when NAM was offered (January 1, 2008-July 26, 2016).

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Demographic variables collected included race, ethnicity, ZIP code, number of caregivers, caregiver employment status, and health insurance status. Medical variables collected included diagnosis, treatment pursued, compliance with NAM, completion of NAM, and the treating cleft surgeon and orthodontist. Data were analyzed via Fisher exact tests, χ2 tests, and multivariate logistic regression to identify factors that influence the decision to pursue NAM and treatment compliance.

Results:

Univariate analyses identified the following significant factors predicting the pursuit of NAM: race and insurance type (both P < .001), surgeon ( P = .005), income level ( P = .009), comorbidities ( P = .015), and syndromic diagnosis ( P = .033). Driving distance trended toward significance ( P = .078). Multivariate regression analyses indicated that Asian race ( P = .047), insurance type ( P = .046), driving distance ( P = .019), and surgeon ( P = .017) were significant predictors of pursuit of NAM.

Conclusions:

There are disparities in patient choice of NAM at our center for children with complete cleft lip. African American patient families were less likely to pursue this intervention. A stronger understanding of the barriers that lower income and minority patients face is needed in order to better characterize disparities in cleft care.
Ertapenem Neurotoxicity in Hemodialysis Patients—Safe and Effective Dosing Is Still Needed: A Retrospective Study and Literature Review
Authors: El Nekidy Wasim S. , Elrefaei Hazem , St. John Terrence J. Lee , Attallah Nizar M. , Kablaoui Farah , Nusair Ahmad , Piechowski-Jozwiak Bartlomiej , Phillips Janise , Ghazi Islam M.
Published: July 2020

Background:

The approved dosing of ertapenem in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 utilizing dialysis (CKD-5D) is 0.5 g intravenous daily. Several reports associated this dosing strategy with neurotoxicity.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to identify the incidence of neurotoxicity in this population and the risk factors associated with this toxicity. The secondary objective was to review the literature and discuss a safer/cost-effective dosing strategy based on available data.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted screening all patients who received ertapenem and hemodialysis at our quaternary hospital between May 2015 and March 2019. Patients’ demographics, comorbidities, concomitant drugs (known to induce neurotoxicity), and seizure history were collected.

Results:

A total of 99 eligible patients were identified; 10 of them (10%) developed neurotoxicity. The patients who developed neurotoxicity were all male; mean age was 74 ± 9 years as compared with 68.9 ± 13 years in the sample. Bivariate relationships between all predictors and the seizures (dichotomously coded) were estimated to investigate the risk factors. The following were the significant predictors of seizures: male sex (17%; P = 0.014), dementia (27%; P = 0.012), and concomitant use of β-lactams, aminoglycosides, or fluoroquinolones (19.6%; P = 0.042).

Conclusion and Relevance:

The currently approved ertapenem dose imposes a risk of developing neurotoxicity in patients with CKD-5D. Utilizing the published data in this population, alternative post-dialysis dosing strategies administered through dialysis access such as 1 g loading dose, followed by either 0.5 g (for the 48 hours interdialytic time) or 1 g (for the 72 hours interdialytic time) might warrant further investigation for efficacy and safety.
Trajectories of Calling in the Transition From University to Work: A Growth Mixture Analysis
Authors: Zhang Chunyu , Hirschi Andreas , You Xuqun
Published: July 2020

Research on the development of calling is still in its infancy and rarely focused on how calling changes during a major career transition. The current study examined the developmental trajectories of calling and their relation with personality (i.e., conscientiousness, proactive personality) in the transition from university to work with a three-wave longitudinal study with 340 Chinese graduating university students. Results based on growth mixture modeling indicated three developmental trajectories of calling: high and stable calling (23% of sample), high but decreasing calling (74%), and low and increasing calling (3%). Moreover, higher conscientiousness related to a higher chance of being classified into the high and stable calling trajectory. These findings add notable insights to the literature by exploring the previously neglected developmental trajectories of calling and their association with personality in the transition from university to work.