bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Idealized Large-Eddy Simulations of Stratocumulus Advecting over Cold Water. Part I: Boundary Layer Decoupling
Authors: Zheng Youtong , Zhang Haipeng , Rosenfeld Daniel , Lee Seoung-Soo , Su Tianning , Li Zhanqing
Published: October 2021

We explore the decoupling physics of a stratocumulus-topped boundary layer (STBL) moving over cooler water, a situation mimicking warm-air advection (WADV). We simulate an initially well-mixed STBL over a doubly periodic domain with the sea surface temperature decreasing linearly over time using the System for Atmospheric Modeling large-eddy model. Due to the surface cooling, the STBL becomes increasingly stably stratified, manifested as a near-surface temperature inversion topped by a well-mixed cloud-containing layer. Unlike the stably stratified STBL in cold-air advection (CADV) that is characterized by cumulus coupling, the stratocumulus deck in the WADV is unambiguously decoupled from the sea surface, manifested as weakly negative buoyancy flux throughout the subcloud layer. Without the influxes of buoyancy from the surface, the convective circulation in the well-mixed cloud-containing layer is driven by cloud-top radiative cooling. In such a regime, the downdrafts propel the circulation, in contrast to that in CADV regime for which the cumulus updrafts play a more determinant role. Such a contrast in convection regime explains the difference in many aspects of the STBLs including the entrainment rate, cloud homogeneity, vertical exchanges of heat and moisture, and lifetime of the stratocumulus deck, with the last being subject to a more thorough investigation in Part II. Finally, we investigate under what conditions a secondary stratus near the surface (or fog) can form in the WADV. We found that weaker subsidence favors the formation of fog whereas a more rapid surface cooling rate does not.

Significant Statement

The low-lying blanketlike clouds, called stratocumulus (Sc), reflect much incoming sunlight, substantially modulating Earth’s temperature. While much is known about how the Sc evolves when it moves over warmer water, few studies examine the opposite situation of Sc moving over colder water. We used a high-resolution numerical model to simulate such a case. When moving over cold water, the Sc becomes unambiguously decoupled from the water surface, distinctive from its warm counterpart in which the Sc interacts with the water surface via intermittent cauliflower-like clouds called cumulus clouds. Such decoupling influences many aspects of the Sc–sea surface system, which combine to alter the ability of the Sc to reflect sunlight, thereby influencing the climate. This work laid the foundation for future work that quantifies the contribution of such a decoupled Sc regime to Earth’s radiative budget and climate change.
High Failure Rate Following Restorative Surgery for Rectal Prolapse in Systemic Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Kahana Noam , Freund Michael R. , Koslowsky Benjamin , Blich Ori , Reissman Petachia , Yellinek Shlomo
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disorder. Colonic disorders are reported in 70% of patients. Only a few cases of rectal prolapse surgical repair in SSc patients were published, demonstrating high recurrence rate following any restorative surgery. The aim of this study is to present our surgical experience combined with the reported cases of SSc patients who underwent surgical interventions for rectal prolapse.

Methods

We reviewed our data and the published reports in the English literature of patients with SSc who underwent surgery for rectal prolapse. We located 6 case reports, in addition to 3 patients who were operated in our center.

Results

A total of 19 procedures (9 patients) were included, among them 17 restorative surgeries and 2 low anterior resections (LAR) with end-colostomy. All patients were female (mean age 70.3). Index surgery was perineal rectosigmoidectomy in 5, abdominal resection rectopexy in 3, and LAR with colostomy in 1 patient. All patients following restorative surgery suffered from fecal incontinence. 5 patients (62.5%) who underwent restorative surgery required at least 1 re-operation. The 2 patients who underwent LAR and colostomy reported a complete resolution of anorectal symptoms with a major improvement in their quality of life.

Conclusion

High recurrence rate is expected in SSc patients with rectal prolapse who undergo a restorative procedure. Low anterior resection and permanent colostomy provide an alternative surgical option to patients with SSc and prolapse in contrast to restorative surgery. We believe that this surgical approach should be offered for these patients.
Commission on Cancer CP3R Compliance Rates for Treatment of Patients With Triple Negative and HER2+ Breast Cancer: A National Cancer Database Analysis
Authors: Mohan Srivarshini C. , Tseng Joshua , Srour Marissa , Chung Alice , Marumoto Ashley , Angarita Stephanie , Giuliano Armando E. , Amersi Farin
Published: October 2021

Background

Cancer Program Practice Profile Reports (CP3R) metrics were released by the Commission on Cancer to provide standards for high-quality care. One metric is the recommendation of combination chemotherapy or chemo-immunotherapy (CIT) within 120 days of diagnosis for women under 70 with AJCC T1cN0M0 or Stage IB-III HER2+ or hormone receptor negative breast cancer ([Multi-agent chemotherapy] MAC). Our study assesses national concordance rates for MAC and CIT.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried from 2004-2014.

Results

122,045 patients met criteria, of whom treatment for 101,800 (83.4%) patients was concordant with MAC and CIT. Treatment concordance increased from 75.7% in 2004 to 89.5% in 2014. For HER2+ patients, use of CIT treatment downtrended with progression of pathological stage, from 70.1% (stage I) to 58.1% (stage III). Mean overall survival of patients whose treatment was concordant with MAC and CIT was longer than that of patients who were non-concordant (146.6 vs 143.8 months, P <.01). On Cox regression, there was a survival benefit for concordant patients who were treated at academic hospitals (HR .89, 95% CI 0.802-.976) and had private insurance (HR .76, 95% CI 0.65-.89).

Conclusion

Compliance with MAC and CIT has improved over the past decade and is associated with a significant improvement in overall survival.
Is There an Immigration and School-Level Crime Link?
Authors: Peguero Anthony A. , Irizarry Yasmiyn , Iwama Janice , King Sanna , Dunning-Lozano Jessica L. , Hong Jun Sung , Bondy Jennifer M.
Published: October 2021

Contrary to the public misperception that immigrants are likely to be involved in criminal activities, evidence suggests that immigrants are less likely to engage in violence and criminal behavior at the individual level. Little is known, however, about the relationship between immigration, violence, and delinquency at the school-level. The present study draws from the nationally representative 2015 to 2016 School Survey on Crime and Safety to address two research questions. First, is there an association between an increasing proportion of immigrant students and school-level crime? Second, are there racial/ethnic differences in the association between increasing proportion of immigrant students and school-level crime? Our results indicate no relationship between immigration and school-level crime; however, important and distinctive nuances are related to the study findings.
Hispanic and Latinx Police Officers’ Perceptions of the Working Environment
Authors: Gau Jacinta M. , Paoline Eugene A. , Roman Krystle L.
Published: October 2021

The percentage of police officers identifying as Hispanic or Latinx is steadily rising nationwide, yet relatively little research has examined this group’s occupational attitudes. Police culture research has identified officers’ perceptions of danger and cynicism toward the public as core concepts. No research to date has examined whether or how Hispanic and Latinx officers might differ from their White colleagues on these occupational attitudes. The present study uses data from a survey of police officers in a large, municipal department. Hispanic and Latinx officers are compared to White peers on perceived danger and cynicism. Results show that Hispanic and Latinx officers feel higher levels of danger but are less cynical. Implications for research and police policy are discussed.
On ableism and anthropocentrism: A canine perspective on the workplace inclusion of disabled people
Authors: Jammaers Eline
Published: October 2021

Despite growing attention for how disabled people become Othered in organizational settings and similar scholarly interest in the treatment of non-humans at work, no analysis so far has focused on the potential double marginalization that takes place when disabled people go to work with their service animal. In filling this void, this study draws attention to the embodied entanglement of ‘humanimal’ in a number of organizations where animals are unexpected. The study argues that the spatial, discursive and affective treatment of service dogs operates as a proxy for the in/exclusion of employees with mobility and visual impairments. This way, processes of ableism become masked as subtle and indirect performances towards non-human Others. Contributions are made towards several literatures by introducing the idea of a ‘proxy’ to help understand the different modes of peripheral inclusion of disabled employees via their legally accepted service animals, by bringing in the role of affect in workplace disablement, and finally by taking animal labour more seriously.
Cross-National Differences in Market Response: Line-Length, Price, and Distribution Elasticities in 14 Indo-Pacific Rim Economies
Authors: Datta Hannes , van Heerde Harald J. , Dekimpe Marnik G. , Steenkamp Jan-Benedict E.M.
Published: October 2021

The field's knowledge of marketing-mix elasticities is largely restricted to developed countries in the North-Atlantic region, even though other parts of the world—especially the Indo-Pacific Rim region—have become economic powerhouses. To better allocate marketing budgets, firms need to have information about marketing-mix elasticities for countries outside the North-Atlantic region. The authors use data covering over 1,600 brands from 14 product categories collected in 7 developed and 7 emerging Indo-Pacific Rim countries across more than 10 years to estimate marketing elasticities for line length, price, and distribution and examine which brand, category, and country factors influence these elasticities. Averaged across brands, categories, and countries, line-length elasticity is .459, price elasticity is −.422, and distribution elasticity is .368, but with substantial variation across brands, categories, and countries. Contrary to what has been suggested in previous research, the authors find no systematic differences in marketing responsiveness between emerging and developed economies. Instead, the key country-level factor driving elasticities is societal stratification, with Hofstede's measure of power inequality (power distance) as its cultural manifestation and income inequality as its economic manifestation. As the effects of virtually all brand, category, and country factors differ across the three marketing-mix instruments, the field needs new theorizing that is contingent on the marketing-mix instrument studied.
Strategies for Implementing Social-Emotional Learning in Adapted Physical Education
Authors: Olive Caitlin , Gaudreault Karen Lux , Lucero Adriana
Published: October 2021

Benefits of developing SEL skills can include improved academic success, emotional health, increased patience for problem solving, and enhanced emotional control and regulation (Ciotto & Gagnon, 2018). Physical education (PE) can be used as an avenue to teach SEL skills by connecting the affective domain (Ciotto & Gagnon, 2018) with the five SEL competencies of: (a) self-awareness, (b) social-awareness, (c) self-management, (d) relationship skills, and (e) responsible decision-making. We offer that SEL is important for all students and can support students with special needs, including those not in general education classrooms, when implemented with appropriate modifications. The purpose of this article is to provide adapted physical educators with two strategies for developing and implementing SEL within APE programs: Restorative Justice Circles (Anfara et al., 2013; Suvall, 2009) and TPSR (Hellison, 2003).
Religious Transitions Among Baby Boomers From Young Adulthood to Later Life: Associations with Psychological Well-Being Over 45 Years
Authors: Hwang Woosang , Zhang Xiaoyan , Brown Maria T. , Vasilenko Sara A. , Silverstein Merril
Published: October 2021

We used classification analysis to examine change in religiosity among baby boomers from young adulthood to early old age and how religiosity transition patterns are associated with psychological well-being in later life. In addition, we tested the gender difference in the above association. We applied latent class and latent transition analysis to 392 baby boomers who participated in the Longitudinal Study of Generations in Wave-1 (1971) and Wave-9 (2016). We identified three classes describing religiosity at each wave (strongly religious, doctrinally religious, and weakly religious), and considered five types of change or stability in religious class membership from Wave-1 to Wave-9. Multiple regression with gender interactions revealed that men who stayed strongly religious over the period reported better psychological well-being compared to men who declined in their religiosity; no such pattern was found for women. Our findings suggest that maintaining strong religiosity over the life course was beneficial for baby boom men in later life.
Maternal responsiveness and directiveness in speech to 2-year-olds: Relationships with children’s concurrent and later vocabulary
Authors: Rantalainen Katariina , Paavola-Ruotsalainen Leila , Kunnari Sari
Published: October 2021

This study investigated responsive and directive speech from 60 Finnish mothers to their 2-year-old children, as well as correlations with concurrent and later vocabulary. Possible gender differences with regard to both maternal speech and children’s vocabulary skills were considered. There were no gender differences in maternal utterance frequencies or in maternal utterance types. Girls scored statistically significantly higher in receptive and expressive vocabulary tests at 24, 30 and 36 months. The effect sizes were large. Maternal Other Utterances (fillers like yes, oh, umm) were correlated with children’s concurrent receptive vocabulary. However, there was no relationship between Other Utterances and children’s later vocabulary after controlling for vocabulary size at 24 months. This association may reflect an attempt by mothers to elicit speech from more linguistically advanced children. Furthermore, mothers’ Intrusive Directives towards 2-year-olds correlated negatively with receptive vocabulary at 30 months, particularly for boys. Surprisingly, Intrusive Attentional Directives correlated positively with expressive vocabulary in the group of 30-month-old girls. The results of this study demonstrate relationships between maternal verbal interactional style and both concurrent and future child vocabulary.
Field investigations on operational performance of a novel radiant floor heating equipment applied in a typical office building
Authors: Qiao Guinan , Wang Yu , Yu Haiyang , Li Yanju , Guo Chunmei
Published: October 2021

Low-temperature radiant heating systems are widely used in buildings with significant energy conservation, and they are convenient for the utilization of low-grade energy resources and household metering. In this study, the practical application of a novel radiant floor heating system (RFHS) in cold regions is investigated via construction of an experimental platform for energy consumption and thermal comfort in an office building in Tianjin, China. The results indicated that the novel radiant floor exhibits higher heating capacity and heat transfer coefficient than that of a traditional radiant floor. During the experiment, the average indoor temperature was 25.0°C in the office room and 22.7°C in the conference room, and all instantaneous indoor temperatures exceeded 21°C. To avoid local thermal discomfort, the supply water temperature of the floor can be appropriately decreased by 2–3°C for operation. Additionally, the power consumption of the system is decreased by approximately 11.4% if the indoor temperature is decreased to 20°C. Hence, a 10-h operation mode per day can be adopted in the office building for energy conservation given that the novel radiant floor exhibits superior initial response to intermittent operation.

Practical application: In this study, the practical application effect of a new type of water-passing floor is examined in cold regions to provide a design reference for engineering applications. Therefore, it is expected that the results will be helpful to researchers for indoor environments, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning engineers, system manufacturers, and those who want to analyze the operational performance of a radiant floor heating system.
Iatrogenic Cervical Epidermoid Cyst Following Tracheostomy
Authors: Kim Min-Sik , Lee Minhyung , Lee Jin-Choon , Sung Eui-Suk
Published: October 2021

Epidermoid cysts are generally benign lesions surrounded by squamous epithelium with cystic contents. The lining of the cysts produce keratin, which resemble a cheese-like material. They typically occur in the skin and mucous membranes and are congenital in origin; iatrogenic epidermoid cysts are rare. Epidermoid cysts are usually painless and asymptomatic, and their diagnosis is based on histological examination. This paper aims to present the case report of a 23-year-old patient with an iatrogenic epidermoid cyst that occurred following tracheostomy. The importance of preoperative radiological imaging in the diagnosis of epidermoid cysts is also highlighted.
Emotion differentiation during the transition to parenthood—Concurrent and prospective positive effects
Authors: Lazarus Gal , Pshedetzky-Shochat Rony , Zahavi-Lupo Tara , Gleason Marci EJ , Rafaeli Eshkol
Published: October 2021

Emotion differentiation, the extent to which same-valenced emotions are experienced as distinct, has been found to be associated with various positive outcomes. However, little is known about its role in relational contexts. The present work examines couples in the transition to parenthood, a particularly emotionally demanding period, and explores the associations between emotion differentiation and both concurrent (3-month post-partum) and prospective (6-month post-partum) relationship quality adjusting for pre-partum relationship quality. Both negative emotion differentiation (NED) and positive emotion differentiation (PED) were computed from daily affect ratings completed over 21 days by both partners in 88 couples. They were then examined as predictors of relationship quality (relationship satisfaction and perceived partner responsiveness) using actor–partner interdependence models. NED was found to be concurrently associated with elevated perceived partner responsiveness for one’s self and for one’s partner, and with elevated relationship satisfaction when the partner’s NED was low. Positive emotion differentiation was found to be concurrently associated with relationship satisfaction for one’s self and one’s partner. Prospectively, partner NED and partner PED were associated with greater relationship satisfaction. The findings suggest that NED may function as a compensatory or shared dyadic resource, and that PED, whose effects in previous studies have been mixed, may also be constructive. Individuals undergoing emotionally demanding periods (such as the transition to parenthood) may benefit from developing more nuanced emotional experiences.
Carer burden: Associations with attachment, self-efficacy, and care-seeking
Authors: Romano Daniel , Karantzas Gery C. , Marshall Emma M. , Simpson Jeffry A. , Feeney Judith A. , McCabe Marita P. , Lee Juwon , Mullins Ellie R.
Published: October 2021

Familial caregiving research is yet to examine the factors that underpin the association between attachment insecurity and carer burden. Furthermore, previous research consists largely of data collected at a single point in time. This paper addresses these gaps by reporting on a study involving 57 parent–child dyads to determine whether adult children’s caregiving self-efficacy mediates the association between carer attachment insecurity and carer burden. Furthermore, care-recipient care-seeking style was investigated as a moderator of the association between carer’s attachment insecurity and their self-efficacy. Carers completed self-report measures of attachment orientations at baseline, caregiving self-efficacy at 3 months, and carer burden at 6 months. At 3 months, dyads also engaged in a video-recorded caregiving discussion task assessing care-recipient’s observed care-seeking style. The mediation effects of carer attachment orientations on burden through caregiving self-efficacy were contingent on care-recipient indirect-constructive care-seeking. Findings highlight the complex interplay between carer attachment orientations, caregiving self-efficacy, and care-recipient care-seeking style in predicting the burden experienced by adult children.
Selective therapeutic cooling: To maximize benefits and minimize side effects related to hypothermia
Authors: Wu Di , Chen Jian , Zhang Xuxiang , Ilagan Roxanne , Ding Yuchuan , Ji Xunming
Published: October 2021

Selective therapeutic cooling is a promising technique for reducing final infarct volume and improving outcomes in ischemic stroke, especially as research regarding brain reperfusion continues to be explored. A recent study provided promising results on the safety and feasibility of selective therapeutic hypothermia via a closed-loop cooling catheter system for intra-carotid blood cooling in an ovine stroke model, but they failed to find efficacy of this method in this model. It is a major step forward from bench to bed side, but enhancing benefits of selective therapeutic cooling may need to take into account a more targeted induction of brain hypothermia and should mitigate potential side effects related to inducing hypothermia.
Increased number of electrocardiogram findings requiring additional cardiac examination in young athletes during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: a case series
Authors: Šarčević Zoran , Tepavčević Andreja
Published: October 2021

We aimed to compare the results of electrocardiogram (ECG) examinations in young athletes from 2017 to 2020, which includes a period during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with special attention to T-wave inversion that might be a sign of myocarditis. This was a retrospective observational study. We reviewed data of ECG examinations among 640 young athletes aged 10 to 14 years (160 in each year from 2017–2020). The setting was Novi Sad Sports Medicine Center in Serbia. We hypothesized that most young athletes with changes on ECG had asymptomatic COVID-19. In the group from 2020, there were significantly more ECG findings requiring additional cardiac examination, according to modern sports cardiology, compared with previous years. We describe one case of documented asymptomatic COVID-19 infection and with T-wave inversion in V4 and V5. The number of schoolchildren with asymptomatic COVID-19 infection might be high because most classes in Novi Sad were conducted face-to-face during 2020. Because a serious risk of myocarditis exists in young athletes, especially in relation to COVID-19 infection, a careful sports preparticipation examination is important to identify athletes possibly requiring additional testing and medical care prior to a return to sports.
Diaspora engagement policies and transnational financialisation in Colombia
Authors: Zapata Gisela P
Published: October 2021

Although the debate on the migration–remittances–development nexus in Latin America has advanced considerably in recent years, the literature has yet to analyse the socio-political implications of the process of Financialisation of Remittances (FOR) in the region. This paper sheds light on the relationship between the FOR and diaspora engagement policies in Colombia, thus contributing to a growing body of critical analyses on diasporas as agents of development and processes of financialisation beyond the global north. Since the turn of this century, Colombian governments have invested in consolidating part of the state apparatus to capture and maintain the diaspora and their resources connected to the motherland. The paper uses a case study approach centred on a systematic examination of the political–institutional apparatus developed to engage the diaspora and financialise remittances in Colombia over the past 20 years, incorporating a temporal and historical perspective of the triad migration–development–financialisation trends at the national level. It argues that the FOR is a centrepiece of the state's broader strategy for the symbolic and material redefinition of (transnational) membership, in which both, embracing – by extending social and political rights – and tapping – into migrant households’ connections to global circuits of capital and finance – elements co-exist This case is illustrative of how a growing number of states are adopting models of diaspora engagement that, on the one hand, feed into the dominant financialised model of development; and on the other, serve as an instrumental strategy in the emerging architecture of the global governance of migration.
Practices and thinking of public libraries in China during COVID-19
Authors: Xin Zhou
Published: October 2021

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries in China closed their doors in early 2020 and moved all their services online. This change has brought unprecedented challenges for the development of library services, while it has also brought opportunities and motivation for the future transformation of libraries. This article uses official WeChat accounts of the National Library of China and more than 30 provincial public libraries as the main information sources to summarize and classify the services provided during the period of closure. It also collates and analyses news items released by these libraries to guide the improvement of the online services of public libraries in the pandemic environment. Finally, it puts forward the author’s reflections and suggestions on the key development directions of libraries in the post-pandemic era in six areas: reading promotion, smart libraries, new media operation, information literacy cultivation, open access and collaborative development.
Safety Impact of Connected Vehicles on Driver Behavior in Rural Work Zones under Foggy Weather Conditions
Authors: Adomah Eric , Khoda Bakhshi Arash , Ahmed Mohamed M.
Published: October 2021

Work zone safety is one of the paramount goals of the safety community. Safety in WZs is a particular concern under foggy conditions as they represent an exogenous factor contributing to high variability in driver behavior. In line with the Connected Vehicle (CV) Pilot Deployment Program on Interstate-80 (I-80) in Wyoming, this study investigates the safety benefits of CV Work Zone Warning (WZW) applications on driver behavior during foggy weather conditions. A work zone (WZ) was simulated using VISSIM in four sequential areas, including the advance warning, transition, activity, and termination area. The effect of drivers’ increased situational awareness under the effect of WZW was calibrated in VISSIM based on the results of a high-fidelity driving simulator experiment. Various Surrogate Measures of Safety (SMoS), including Time-To-Collision (TTC), Time Exposed Time-to-collision (TET), Time-Integrated Time-to-collision (TIT), and Modified Deceleration Rate to Avoid Crash (MDRAC), were employed to quantify the safety performance of CVs under varying CV Market Penetration Rates (MPRs). According to the results of TTC and MDRAC, it was found that an increase in CV-MPR enhances the safety performance of the WZ area. Findings showed that, under foggy weather conditions, the advance warning area had the highest TIT and TET values. Furthermore, it was revealed that an increase in MPR of up to 60% on I-80 would reduce mean speeds and the standard deviation of speed at each of the WZ areas, leading to more speed harmonization and minimizing the crash risk in WZs.
Data-Driven Railway Crosstie Support Condition Prediction Using Deep Residual Neural Network: Algorithm and Application
Authors: Feng Bin , Liu Zhongyi , Tutumluer Erol , Huang Hai
Published: October 2021

Ballasted track substructure is designed and constructed to provide uniform crosstie support and serve the functions of drainage and load distribution over trackbed. Poor and nonuniform support conditions can cause excessive crosstie vibration which will negatively affect the crosstie flexural bending behavior. Furthermore, ballast–tie gaps and large contact forces at the crosstie–ballast interface will result in accelerated ballast layer degradation and settlement accumulation. Inspection of crosstie support condition is therefore necessary while very challenging to implement using current methods and technologies. Based on deep learning artificial intelligence techniques and a developed residual neural network (ResNet), this paper introduces an innovative data-driven prediction approach for crosstie support conditions as demonstrated from a full-scale ballasted track laboratory experiment. The discrete element method (DEM) is leveraged to provide training and testing data sets for the proposed prediction model. K-means clustering is applied to establish ballast layer subsections with representative ballast particles and provide additional insights on layer zoning for dynamic behavior trends. When provided with DEM simulated particle vertical accelerations, the proposed deep learning ResNet could achieve 100% training and 95.8% testing accuracy. Fed with vertical acceleration measurements captured by advanced “SmartRock” sensors from a full-scale ballasted track laboratory experiment, the trained model could successfully reach a high accuracy of 92.0%. Based on the developed deep learning approach and the research findings presented in this paper, the innovative crosstie support condition prediction system is envisioned to provide railroaders accurate, timely, and repeatable inspection and monitoring opportunities without disrupting railway network operations.
Open Science From a Qualitative, Feminist Perspective: Epistemological Dogmas and a Call for Critical Examination
Authors: Bennett Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2021

Open science serves to address core issues that are unique to quantitative methods in psychology, though it is typically presented as an appropriate framework for psychological research in general. In the present article, I critically examine the context within which open science operates as I bring that perspective into dialogue with priorities and goals of research that are both qualitative and feminist. I orient this examination in response to the question: what does open science mean for research methodologies that have historically been a home for transgressive and radical question-asking? Questioning the purposes of key tenets like replication and statistical significance—values systems that pose central distinctions between quantitative and qualitative methods—begs bigger questions for feminist psychologists. What counts as science? What counts as a valid epistemology? How can we avoid a further marginalization of epistemologies deemed less valid? I explore these questions, followed by a possible reimagining of our field’s engagement with open science in which I present seven suggestions to practically guide this endeavor.
Malian Thick Porridges (tô) of Pearl Millet Are Made Thinner in Urban Than Rural Areas and Decrease Satiety
Authors: Diarra Mohamed , Torres-Aguilar Pablo , Hayes Anna M. R. , Cisse Fatimata , Nkama Iro , Hamaker Bruce R.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Changes in preparation, preference, and consumption of traditional staple foods between rural and urban areas in sub-Saharan Africa may be associated with the nutrition transition.

Objective:

Millet porridge thickness and postprandial hunger were investigated in Mali with the aim of understanding consumer preference and satiety properties.

Methods:

Rural and urban residents from 3 regions (N = 60) were surveyed regarding their porridge consumption frequency and thickness preference. Influence of millet porridge thickness on satiety was investigated. Ten participants consumed 4 porridges of different thicknesses (3 of millet and 1 thin porridge of rice) and rated their subjective hunger on 4 different days.

Results:

Thicker porridges were consumed more frequently in rural areas than in urban ( P < .05). For the satiety study, thicker porridges induced higher satiety than thinner ones at 2 and 4 hours postconsumption ( P < .05; Visual Analog Scale rating). A greater amount of flour, but not volume, was consumed for the thicker porridges ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

Urban participants preferred and consumed porridges that are less satiating, potentially contributing to higher food consumption related to the nutrition transition in Africa.
Identity Management as a Coping Strategy for Stigmatization: The Case of Indian Sex Workers in a Libidinal Market
Authors: Mitra Nilanjana , Hill Ronald Paul , Chaudhuri Himadri Roy , Chaudhuri Anindita
Published: October 2021

Poor women can face stigmas about indolence, moral turpitude, and substance abuse. This stigmatized condition includes female sex workers, who live and work in situations that exacerbate impoverishment and bring societal exclusion and shame. The authors situate their arguments at the nexus of poverty and stigma and examine the value of identity formation and reformation in the context of female sex workers in India. These women face restrictions to meet basic needs and remain in the profession despite significant challenges. The study reveals five identity pathways in their collective consciousness: protector, sacred, commoditized, provider, and eudaimonic/self-acceptance. Together, these identities serve as themes that reflect the lived experiences of these women, who were forced to endure systemic violence in relative silence. The authors use and advance arguments provided by Hill, Ozanne, and Viswanathan and their various colleagues to frame the current understanding of the women’s plight. This article contributes to theory by revealing that these identities have positive consequences for personal reconfiguration under conditions of vulnerability. The results indicate that public policy should recognize the value of self-identities that support resistance in a marginalized marketplace. Sensitizing stakeholders, including policy makers, to destigmatization may also help sex workers gain the courage of their convictions to leave the profession.
Higher Self-Esteem Associated With Less Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression Among Young Adults After the Loss of a Parent to Cancer—A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lundberg Tina , Årestedt Kristofer , Forinder Ulla , Olsson Mariann , Fürst Carl Johan , Alvariza Anette
Published: October 2021

Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine associations between self-esteem and symptoms of anxiety and depression among young adults who lost a parent to cancer. Methods: Older adolescents and young adults, aged 16 to 28 years, who had lost their parent to cancer and had accepted an invitation to join a support group, completed a questionnaire 5 to 8 months after the loss and a similar questionnaire about 10 months later (follow-up). Of a total of 77 young adults who participated in the study, 56 completed both questionnaires. Self-esteem was measured with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Univariate and multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the associations. Result: Self-esteem was significantly associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression at baseline and at follow-up. Conclusion: This study reveals that self-esteem is a valuable explanatory variable, and that it is associated with both symptoms of anxiety and depression in bereavement. This new knowledge could be used to guide future support to parentally bereaved young adults.
The Impact of Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Count Ratio in COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sarkar Soumya , Khanna Puneet , Singh Akhil Kant
Published: October 2021

Background: The neutrophil–lymphocyte count ratio (NLR) has emerged as a potential prognostic tool for different diseases. In the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the NLR may be a useful tool for risk scarification and the optimal utilization of limited healthcare resources. However, there is no consensus regarding the optimal value of NLR, and the association with disease severity and mortality. Thus, this study aims to systematically analyze the current evidence of the utility of baseline NLR as a predictive tool for mortality, disease severity in COVID-19 patients. Methods: A compendious screening of electronic databases up to June 15, 2021, was done after enlisting the protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42020202659). Studies evaluating the utility of baseline NLR in COVID-19 are included for this review as per the PRISMA statement. Results: We retrieved a total of 13112 and 12986 COVID-19 patients for survivability and severity over 90 studies. The expired and critically sick patients had elevated baseline NLR on admission, in comparison to survivors and noncritical patients. (SMD = 3.82; 95% CI: 2.79-4.85; I2 = 100% and SMD = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.22-1.63; I2 = 95%, respectively). The summary receiver operating curve analysis for mortality (AUC = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.86-0.87; I2 = 94.7%), and severity (AUC = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.80-0.84; I2 = 79.7%) were also suggestive of its significant predictive value. Conclusions: The elevated NLR on admission in COVID-19 patients is associated with poor outcomes.
Assisted peritoneal dialysis across Europe: Practice variation and factors associated with availability
Authors: van Eck van der Sluijs Anita , van Jaarsveld Brigit C , Allen Jennifer , Altabas Karmela , Béchade Clémence , Bonenkamp Anna A , Burkhalter Felix , Clause Anne-Lorraine , Corbett Richard W , Dekker Friedo W , Eden Gabriele , François Karlien , Gudmundsdottir Helga , Lundström Ulrika Hahn , de Laforcade Louis , Lambie Mark , Martin Heike , Pajek Jernej , Panuccio Vincenzo , Ros-Ruiz Silvia , Steubl Dominik , Vega Almudena , Wojtaszek Ewa , Davies Simon J , Van Biesen Wim , Abrahams Alferso C
Published: October 2021

Background:

In Europe, the number of elderly end-stage kidney disease patients is increasing. Few of those patients receive peritoneal dialysis (PD), as many cannot perform PD autonomously. Assisted PD programmes are available in most European countries, but the percentage of patients receiving assisted PD varies considerably. Hence, we assessed which factors are associated with the availability of an assisted PD programme at a centre level and whether the availability of this programme is associated with proportion of home dialysis patients.

Methods:

An online survey was sent to healthcare professionals of European nephrology units. After selecting one respondent per centre, the associations were explored by χ 2 tests and (ordinal) logistic regression.

Results:

In total, 609 respondents completed the survey. Subsequently, 288 respondents from individual centres were identified; 58% worked in a centre with an assisted PD programme. Factors associated with availability of an assisted PD programme were Western European and Scandinavian countries (OR: 5.73; 95% CI: 3.07–10.68), non-academic centres (OR: 2.01; 95% CI: 1.09–3.72) and centres with a dedicated team for education (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 1.35–6.11). Most Eastern & Central European respondents reported that the proportion of incident and prevalent home dialysis patients was <10% (72% and 63%), while 27% of Scandinavian respondents reported a proportion of >30% for both incident and prevalent home dialysis patients. Availability of an assisted PD programme was associated with a higher incidence (cumulative OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.21–3.01) and prevalence (cumulative OR: 2.81; 95% CI: 1.76–4.47) of patients on home dialysis.

Conclusions:

Assisted PD was more commonly offered among non-academic centres with a dedicated team for education across Europe, especially among Western European and Scandinavian countries where higher incidence and prevalence of home dialysis patients was reported.
The NIMBY problem
Authors: Foster David , Warren Joseph
Published: October 2021

Nimbyism is widely thought to arise from an inherent tradeoff between localism and efficiency in government: because many development projects have spatially concentrated costs and diffuse benefits, local residents naturally oppose proposed projects. But why cannot project developers (with large potential profits) compensate local residents? We argue that local regulatory institutions effectively require developers to expend resources that cannot be used to compensate residents. Not being compensated for local costs, residents therefore oppose development. Using a formal model, we show that when these transaction costs are high, voters consistently oppose development regardless of compensation from developers. But when transaction costs are low, developers provide compensation to residents and local support for development increases. We conclude that nimbyism arises from a bargaining problem between developers and local residents, not the relationship between local decision-making and the spatial structure of costs and benefits. We suggest policy reforms implied by this theory.
Eating Insects: A Christian Ethic of Farmed Insect Life
Authors: Slater Jack
Published: October 2021

Proponents of entomophagy have argued that the farming of insects offers many advantages when contrasted with more traditional farming practices. This article explores the place of insect farming within a wider Christian food ethic and argues that insect farming has much to recommend it. However, through exploring the role of animal agriculture within the ideological structures of anthropocentrism, a more ambiguous picture of the ethics of insect farming emerges. This belies a simple endorsement or denunciation of insect farming as an ethical alternative to the farming of larger animals. Moreover, the example of insect farming reveals that Christian food ethics needs to radically reimagine the entire food provisioning system if it is to inculcate substantive change in human relationships with nonhuman animals.
A Retrospective Look at Recent COVID-19 Articles Published in Cell Transplantation: Research Leading to Further Understanding
Authors: Sanberg Paul , Morrison Donna C , Kovacs Ryan A , Bjugstad Kimberly
Published: October 2021

During the past 18 months as the world dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic, articles published in Cell Transplantation ( CT) voiced unique perspectives on the disease which have since been supported by additional research. Intrigued by the variability in COVID-19 severity, CT authors explored the influence of variants in angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and the transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) genes, as well as the role of androgen receptors on disease development. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were offered up as a potential COVID-19 therapy because of their immune modulating characteristics and successful use in other acute respiratory diseases. Two CT author groups gave proof of principle when hospitalized COVID-19 patients were infused with MSC after no other interventions seemed to work. MSC treatment reduced disease severity and shortened hospitalization stays. Lastly, CT authors speculated why we are still in the midst of a pandemic and the consequences of disillusioned comfort as we face new emerging variants that may undermine all we have accomplished thus far.
Does Accreditation Symbolise Quality in Public Healthcare Delivery? An Investigation of Hospitals in Kerala
Authors: Joseph Sindhu
Published: October 2021

Accreditation has become an important benchmark for healthcare organisations, and accordingly, many government hospitals in Kerala got accredited with national level (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers [NABH]) and state level (Kerala Accreditation Standards for Hospitals [KASH]) accreditation programmes. This study examined the quality of public healthcare delivery in these accredited hospitals while having a comparison with the non-accredited hospitals. It also compared the impact of national and state-level accreditation programmes in Kerala public healthcare settings. This cross-sectional study conducted between July 2017 and July 2018, employing a positivist approach using stratified random sampling. In total, 621 samples were collected from inpatients of both accredited (NABH and KASH) (312) and non-accredited (309) public healthcare institutions in Kerala. Nine constructs overarching the quality of healthcare delivery and patient satisfaction construct are used in the study. The study found that patient satisfaction is identical in both accredited and non-accredited hospitals ( M = 4.28). Patient satisfaction in NABH accredited hospital ( M = 4.27 ± 0.67874) is lower than that of KASH accredited hospital ( M = 4.30 ± 1.25417). The mean score of six constructs of quality healthcare delivery of KASH accredited hospitals is higher than NABH accredited. The study revealed that accreditation brings improvement in certain dimensions of healthcare delivery but does not bring a holistic change. The study concluded that if accreditation has to symbolize quality healthcare delivery, infrastructural and interpersonnel components of healthcare delivery must be improved.
Determinants of Firm Profitability in Africa
Authors: Bolarinwa Segun Thompson , Akinlo Anthony Enisan , Onyekwelu Uche Lucy
Published: October 2021

Using a large firm-level data set of 896 firms selected from 27 African countries between 2005 and 2017 and the generalized method of moments (GMM) technique, this study investigates the firm-specific, industry-level, and macroeconomic factors affecting firms’ profitability in Africa. Unlike existing studies that adopt non-standard measures of a firm’s managerial efficiency, this study introduces the standard measure of managerial efficiency into the determinants of a firm’s profitability. The empirical results show that managerial efficiency, size, age, leverage, tangibility, and firm’s growth are significant firm-level determinants of a firm’s profitability in Africa. Similarly, an industry-specific factor of competition exercises a significant effect on a firm’s profitability. However, the role of macroeconomic factors are not validated by the study. Policy recommendations follow the study.