bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What They Are Not Telling Us: Analysis of Nonresponders on a National Survey of Resident Well-Being
Authors: Cardell Chelsea F. , Yuce Tarik K. , Zhan Tiannan , Eng Josh S. , Cheung Elaine O. , Etkin Caryn D. , Amortegui Daniela , Jones Andrew , Buyske Jo , Bilimoria Karl Y. , Hu Yue-Yung
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

To characterize nonrespondents to a national survey about trainee well-being, examine response patterns to questions of sensitive nature, and assess how nonresponse biases prevalence estimates of mistreatment and well-being.

Background:

Surgical trainees are at risk for burnout and mistreatment, which are discernible only by self-report. Therefore, prevalence estimates may be biased by nonresponse.

Methods:

A survey was administered with the 2018 and 2019 American Board of Surgery In-Training Examinations assessing demographics, dissatisfaction with education and career, mistreatment, burnout, thoughts of attrition, and suicidality. Responders in 2019 were characterized as survey “Completers,” “Discontinuers” (quit before the end), and “Selective Responders” (selectively answered questions throughout). Multivariable logistic regression assessed associations of respondent type with mistreatment and well-being outcomes, adjusting for individual and program characteristics. Longitudinal survey identifiers linked survey responses for eligible trainees between 2018 and 2019 surveys to further inform nonresponse patterns.

Results:

In 2019, 6956 (85.6%) of 8129 eligible trainees initiated the survey, with 66.5% Completers, 17.5% Discontinuers, and 16.0% Selective Responders. Items with the highest response rates included dissatisfaction with education and career (93.2%), burnout (86.3%), thoughts of attrition (90.8%), and suicidality (94.4%). Discontinuers and Selective Responders were more often junior residents and racially/ethnically minoritized than Completers. No differences were seen in burnout and suicidality rates between Discontinuers, Selective Responders, and Completers. Non-White or Hispanic residents were more likely to skip questions about racial/ethnic discrimination than non-Hispanic White residents (21.2% vs 15.8%; odds ratio [OR], 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19–1.53), particularly when asked to identify the source. Women were not more likely to omit questions regarding gender/gender identity/sexual orientation discrimination (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.79–1.04) or its sources (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.89–1.16). Both Discontinuers and Selective Responders more frequently reported physical abuse (2.5% vs 1.1%; P = 0.001) and racial discrimination (18.3% vs 13.6%; P < 0.001) on the previous survey (2018) than Completers.

Conclusions:

Overall response rates are high for this survey. Prevalence estimates of burnout, suicidality, and gender discrimination are likely minimally impacted by nonresponse. Nonresponse to survey items about racial/ethnic discrimination by racially/ethnically minoritized residents likely results in underestimation of this type of mistreatment.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Outcomes in Patients With and Without Bariatric Surgery—Weight Loss Does Make a Difference
Authors: Joo Peter Y. , Zhu Justin R. , Wilhelm Christopher , Tang Kevin , Day Wesley , Moran Jay , Grauer Jonathan N.
Published: February 2023

Study Design.

A retrospective comparative cohort study.

Objective.

To compare outcomes of elective non-obese anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) patients with those that underwent bariatric surgery (BS).

Summary of Background Data.

Morbid obesity (MO) has been associated with an increased risk of complications following procedures such as elective ACDF. While pre-emptive BS has been considered for those with MO (body mass index [BMI] ≥35 kg/m2), the impact of this intervention on BMI and its resultant correlation with surgical outcomes remains limited.

Methods.

The PearlDiver 2010-Q1 2020 MSpine database was used to identify patients undergoing elective isolated ACDF. Three sub-cohorts were defined as follows: (1) Non-obese controls without a history of BS, (2) patients with BS procedure within two years with a BMI <35 kg/m2 (BS+MO-), and (3) patients with BS procedure within the two years with a BMI ≥35 kg/m2 (BS+MO+). Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to compare 90-day adverse event rates adjusting for age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index, and length of stay. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to assess five-year cervical reoperation rates.

Results.

Of 160,166 elective ACDF patients, prior BS was identified for 479. Of these, 136 patients were BS+MO- and 343 were BS+MO+. On multivariate analysis, BS+MO- were not at increased odds of adverse events, but BS+MO+ were at greater odds of 90-day pulmonary embolism (odds ratio 3.28, P=0.043), wound dehiscence (5.02, P<0.001), hematomas (2.52, P=0.042), and overall minor adverse events (1.61, P=0.011) compared with controls. Five-year reoperation rates were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion.

Twenty-eight percent of those with BS before ACDF fell out of the categorization of MO. Among this group, the odds of adverse events were similar to non-obese patients. These findings suggest that the psychological preparation and BS alone are insufficient to reduce the risk of adverse events after ACDF. Weight reduction must be achieved as well, ideally moving patients out of the BMI range for morbid obesity.
Lipoprotein(a) and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseases: Evidence from Chinese Population
Authors: Li Jianjun
Published: February 2023

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Multiple factors are involved in CVD, and emerging data indicate that lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) may be associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) independent of other traditional risk factors. Lp(a) has been identified as a novel therapeutic target. Previous studies on the influence of Lp(a) in CVD have mainly used in western populations. In this review, the association of plasma Lp(a) concentration with ASCVD was summarized, with regards to epidemiological, population-based observational, and pathological studies in Chinese populations. Lp(a) mutations and copy number variations in Chinese populations are also explored. Finally, the impact of plasma Lp(a) levels on patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, and familial hypercholesterolemia are discussed.
Reduced 8-Gray Compared to Standard 12-Gray Total Body Irradiation for Allogeneic Transplantation in First Remission Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Study of the Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT
Authors: Spyridonidis Alexandros , Labopin Myriam , Savani Bipin , Giebel Sebastian , Bug Gesine , Schönland Stefan , Kröger Nicolaus , Stelljes Matthias , Schroeder Thomas , McDonald Andrew , Blau Igor-Wolfgang , Bornhäuser Martin , Rovira Montse , Bethge Wolfgang , Neubauer Andreas , Ganser Arnold , Bourhis Jean Henri , Edinger Matthias , Lioure Bruno , Wulf Gerald , Schäfer-Eckart Kerstin , Arat Mutlu , Peric Zinaida , Schmid Christoph , Bazarbachi Ali , Ciceri Fabio , Nagler Arnon , Mohty Mohamad
Published: February 2023

In this registry-based study, we compared outcomes of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) in adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) transplanted in first complete remission (CR-1), following conditioning with total body irradiation (TBI) at a standard 12-Gray or at a lower 8-Gray total dose. Patients received fludarabine (flu) as the sole chemotherapy complementing TBI. Eight-Gray TBI/flu was used in 494 patients and 12-Gray TBI/flu in 145 patients. Eighty-eight (23.1%) and 36 (29%) of the patients had Ph-negative B-ALL, 222 (58.3%) and 53 (42.7%) had Ph-positive B-ALL, 71 (18.6%) and 35 (28.2%) T-ALL, respectively (P = 0.008). Patients treated with 8-Gray were older than ones received 12-Gray (median 55.7 versus 40.3 years, P < 0.0001) and were more frequently administered in vivo T-cell depletion (71% versus 40%, P <0.0001). In a multivariate model adjusted for age, type of ALL, and other prognostic factors, leukemia-free survival (primary endpoint) as well as relapse, nonrelapse mortality, overall survival, and GVHD-free, relapse-free survival were not influenced by the TBI dose. These results were confirmed when we focused on patients <55 years of age (median 47 years). Patients with Ph-positive ALL or T-ALL had significantly better survival outcomes than ones with Ph-negative B-ALL, mainly due to significantly fewer relapses. We conclude that 8-Gray TBI is sufficient for adult patients with ALL transplanted in CR-1 with no additional benefit of augmenting the conditioning intensity to 12-Gray.
An Unusual Case of Pyogenic Liver Abscess Secondary to Achromobacter xylosoxidans
Authors: Saeed Hasham , Noori Muhammad Atif Masood , Jonbos Maryam , Jesani Shruti , Jawed Qirat , Salamera Julius
Published: February 2023

Achromobacter xylosoxidans is a catalase-positive, oxidase-positive, motile, gram-negative rod. When isolated, it is usually a cause of bacteremia in immunocompromised patients. Here we present a case of liver abscess caused by this rare organism in an immunocompetent host.

A 57-year-old Colombian woman came to the emergency department with complaints of subacute onset of back pain, burning in urination, fever, nausea, and vomiting. She was febrile and tachycardic. Urinalysis was positive for leukocyte esterase, nitrite, and bacteria. The patient was started on empiric piperacillin tazobactam 3375 mg as intravenous piggyback every 8 hours. On day 3 of hospitalization, the patient continued to experience flank pain without improvement. Computed tomographic scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast revealed 2 thick-walled complex collections in the right hepatic lobe and the caudate lobe of the liver. Purulent aspirate grew A. xylosoxidans. In this report, we explore the characteristics of A. xylosoxidans and the associated infections it is known to cause as well as suggested treatments from previously reported cases.
Labyrinthitis With Negative MRI As a Precursor to Rapidly Developing Primary CNS Lymphoma of the Cerebellopontine Angle
Authors: Longino Elizabeth S. , Lindquist Nathan R. , Cass Nathan D. , Brignola Emily , Thompson Reid C. , Haynes David S.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Few case reports have described primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) presenting as a cerebellopontine angle (CPA) lesion in HIV-positive patients. We describe a rare presentation of rapidly progressing PCNSL of the CPA/internal auditory canal (IAC) as labyrinthitis with initial negative MRI in an HIV-positive patient.

Case:

A 58-year-old male with well-controlled HIV presented with sudden left sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and imbalance. Vestibular testing suggested an uncompensated left peripheral vestibular weakness. MRI demonstrated facial and cochleovestibular nerve enhancement within the CPA and IAC. The presumptive diagnosis of labyrinthitis was made. Two months later, he presented to his infectious disease provider with left facial weakness and disequilibrium and was treated for presumed Bell’s palsy. One month later, he presented with left corneal reflex dysfunction, decreased visual acuity, diplopia, and worsening ataxia. Repeat MRI demonstrated a new 3.6 cm lesion of the left CPA/IAC with vasogenic edema. Despite location, the mass lacked the brainstem compression characteristic of other extra-axial CPA masses such as vestibular schwannoma. Flow cytometry and cytology from cerebrospinal fluid was consistent with primary central nervous system large B-cell lymphoma.

Conclusions:

We present a unique case of rapidly progressing PCNSL of the CPA/IAC in an HIV-positive patient, presenting initially as labyrinthitis with negative MRI followed by development of multiple cranial neuropathies and 3-month repeat MRI demonstrating a large CPA mass. In HIV-positive patients with a similar initial presentation, PCNSL should considered early in the diagnostic evaluation with close clinical monitoring and a low threshold for repeat imaging.
Quality Improvement Targeting Non-pharmacologic Care and As-needed Morphine Improves Outcomes in Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome
Authors: McMorrow Thomas J. , Byrnes Kristen , Gates Megan , Hairston Tai , Jawed Aysha , Keydash Megan , Steele Sonya Ulrike , Thorndike Dörte , van Londen Liselotte , Bodnar Benjamin E.
Published: February 2023

Introduction:

Despite the rising incidence of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), there remains wide practice variation in its management. Many recent studies have focused on implementing new symptom scoring systems, typically as part of larger improvement interventions. Despite the continued use of the Finnegan Scoring System, we performed a quality improvement project to reduce the day of life at discharge and cumulative opioid exposure for newborns with NAS.

Methods:

We developed a protocol for NAS treatment emphasizing early transfer to general pediatric units, maximization of non-pharmacologic care, and use of as-needed morphine whenever pharmacologic treatment is required. Outcome metrics were the day of life at discharge and cumulative morphine exposure. As a process measure, we also monitored the day of life at transfer to general pediatric units. In addition, we utilized statistical process control charts to track changes in performance.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients met the inclusion criteria for analysis over 24 months following project initiation. Day of life at discharge decreased by 61% (20.0 versus 7.89 days, P < 0.001), and cumulative morphine exposure decreased by 81% (13.66 versus 2.57 mg morphine, P ≤ 0.001). Day of life at transfer to general pediatric units decreased by 49% (11.13 versus 5.7 days, P = 0.002). There were no readmissions or other identified adverse events.

Conclusions:

We achieved significant improvements in NAS outcomes using improved non-pharmacologic care and as-needed morphine. Moreover, the improvement did not require transitioning to a new scoring system. These results support the efficacy and safety of as-needed morphine for NAS management.
“Is there a relationship between palatal asymmetry and early speech outcomes in children with isolated cleft palate after double opposing Z-plasty?”
Authors: Jeon Sungmi , Choi Kyung Bum , Kim Hyun Woo , Park Hyung Young , Kim Sukwha , Chung Jee Hyeok
Published: February 2023

Background:

Although some cleft palates show asymmetric palatal shelf length and/or width intraoperatively, the relationship between palate asymmetry and speech outcomes has not been fully investigated.

Methods:

This study retrospectively reviewed 234 patients who underwent double opposing Z-plasty (DOZ) for isolated cleft palate (Veau class I–II). Speech outcomes were analyzed to evaluate the association with width and length discrepancy of the palatal shelves using multiple logistic regression adjusting for patient age.

Results:

The mean age at repair were 14.2 ± 5.26 months. The mean palatal shelf width and length differences were 0.87 ± 0.97 mm and 1.63 ± 1.61 mm, respectively. The mean age at initial and follow-up assessment was 37.6 ± 5.70 months (n=234) and 66.2 ± 8.81 months (n=120). Multivariate logistic regression analysis of initial speech outcomes showed odds ratios in width discrepancy of 1.67 (p = 0.0703), 1.59 (p = 0.0104), and 2.01 (p = 0.0051) for nasal emission, hypernasality, and compensatory articulation, respectively. Additional analysis including follow-up outcomes also revealed that width discrepancy of the palatal shelves had higher odds ratios for nasal emission, hypernasality and compensatory articulation (1.49, p=0.0406; 1.36, 0.0660; 1.65, 0.0170, respectively). There was no association between length discrepancy and all speech abnormalities.

Conclusions:

Greater discrepancies in palatal shelf width, rather than in length, were associated with poorer speech outcomes after DOZ. We suggest that DOZ is effective for longitudinally asymmetric cleft palates.
18F-FDG PET/CT Imaging Post Heart Transplantation Depicts High Accumulation at Sites of Previous Ventricular Assist Device Insertion
Authors: Toyama Yoshitaka , Otani Masayuki , Yaoita Nobuhiro , Takanami Kentaro , Takase Kei
Published: February 2023

A 37-year-old man with previous heart transplantation for dilated cardiomyopathy underwent screening for malignancy under posttransplantation immunosuppression. 18F-FDG PET/CT revealed uptake in 2 peritoneal sites of the pericardium that corresponded to the insertion sites of a left ventricular assist device that was used before transplantation. Additional abnormal uptake in the right axillary artery, aortic arch, and left femoral artery corresponded to the insertion sites for arterial inflow during cardiopulmonary bypass. Knowledge that FDG accumulation may occur at the insertion sites of an extracorporeal-circulation device enables unnecessary tests to be avoided.
Discrepancy in Mandibular Medullary Cavity on Different Sides: More Hints Towards Understanding Hemifacial Microsomia
Authors: Wang Xuetong , Xu Haisong , Kim Byeong Seop , Zhang Yan , Chai Gang
Published: February 2023

The authors attempt to approach hemifacial microsomia with macroscopic techniques and look for a link between clinical manifestations with pathogenesis. In this study, for the first time mandibular medullary cavities as essential parts of the mandible were intravitally measured based on the 3-dimensional models. A total of 153 patients were included. The 3-dimensional models of patients’ mandibles were reconstructed and medullary cavity volumes (mm3) were measured. The ratio of medullary cavity volume to mandible volume was calculated to determine the proportion of the marrow in the bone. Statistical significance was found in mandible volumes (P<0.001) and medullary cavity volumes (P<0.001) on different sides. Medullary cavity volumes were significantly related to mandible volumes on both sides (both P<0.001). Medullary cavity volumes on the nonaffected and affected side were both in correlation with age but in different degrees (r=0.214, P=0.008 versus r=0.170, P=0.036). The ratios of medullary cavity volume and the mandible were significantly different (P<0.001) on 2 sides. The volume ratio on the nonaffected side correlated to age while this correlation did not exist on the affected side (r=0.195, P=0.016 versus r=0.129, P=0.112). A smaller medullary cavity found on the affected side could lead to a reduced amount of bone marrow cells and consequently reduced osteogenic and hematopoietic potential. This could result in abnormal bone formation on the affected side of mandible. Proportions of marrow in bone on the affected side irrelevant to patients’ ages signify a poorer potential of expansion. This may explain a higher reluctancy of growth in affected mandibular sides.
A Rare Symptom of Secondary Infection After Facial Thread Lift and Its Treatment
Authors: Jia Ximeng , Huang Lvping , Hu Jintian
Published: February 2023

Facial esthetics is concerned with the harmonious beauty of the face. The skin, soft tissues, and bone tissues of the face degenerate as people age. Facial thread lift is a new minimally invasive esthetic technique that uses threads embedded within different tissue layers to reposition and support lax tissues. The authors report a 35-year-old female patient who developed an infection after undergoing facial thread lift, presenting with facial flushing and swelling, fever, and poor sleep, which was tested for Nocardiopsis dassonvillei infection. The patient was later cured by thread removal, local injection of 5-fluorouracil and triamcinolone acetonide. Postthreading infections have been documented in the past, but it is significant to note that, first, this patient’s postinfection symptoms were distinct because she experienced both mild local symptoms and serious systemic symptoms, and second, the authors looked into a quick and efficient treatment option.
Orchialgia After Living Donor Nephrectomy: An Underreported Entity
Authors: Schoephoerster Jamee , Matas Arthur , Jackson Scott , Pruett Timothy L. , Finger Erik , Kandaswamy Raja , Dunn Ty , Kirchner Varvara , Anderson J. Kyle , Humphreville Vanessa
Published: February 2023

Background.

Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) offers advantages to the donor. The reported incidence of testicular pain after LDN varies in the literature ranging from 3% to 55%.

Methods.

A survey was sent to 322 male LDN patients who donated from February 5, 2009, to February 5, 2019. The survey assessed if the donor had testicular pain or saw an additional medical professional after donation.

Results.

Of the 322 surveyed, 147 (46%) responses were received. Of those who had a left nephrectomy, 39% had testicular pain; 23.8% of those patients had testicular swelling in addition. Of those who had pain, laterality of kidney donated did not impact if the patient had pain, pain onset, pain level, or pain duration. Of those who donated their right kidney, 35% had testicular pain, and 16.7% of those patients reported testicular swelling in addition. Twenty-seven symptomatic patients sought additional medical care for the testicular symptoms postdonation. Seven (25%) had hydroceles, 2 (7%) had testicular cysts, 1 had a urinary tract infection, and 16 (59%) had reassurance or no additional procedures provided.

Conclusions.

Our results suggest that orchialgia is not as uncommon as previously thought and may be one of the most common minor complications experienced by male donors.
Effect of Adding l-Carnitine to Risperidone on Behavioral, Cognitive, Social, and Physical Symptoms in Children and Adolescents With Autism: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Shakibaei Fereshteh , Jelvani Danial
Published: February 2023

Objectives

The present research aimed to evaluate the effect of addingl-carnitine to risperidone in treating children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods

In this randomized controlled clinical trial study, 50 ASD children and adolescents were divided into 2 groups: those receivingl-carnitine and risperidone (n = 25) and those receiving placebo and risperidone (n = 25). Treatment continued for 8 weeks, and participants were assessed at the beginning of the study, in the fourth and eighth weeks, by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC).

Results

l-Carnitine add-on therapy reduced the scores of total ABC and subscales of restlessness, lethargy and social isolation, stereotypic behavior, and inappropriate speech at weeks 4 and 8. There was a significant difference between the 2 groups in the score of total ABC and subscale of lethargy and social isolation.

Conclusions

According to the present study, addingl-carnitine to risperidone improves ASD symptoms.
Dispelling Dogma: American Association for Surgery of Trauma Prospective, Multicenter Trial of Index vs Delayed Fasciotomy after Extremity Trauma
Authors: Keating Jane J , Klingensmith Nathan , Moren Alexis M , Skarupa David J , Loria Anthony , Maher Zoe , Moore Sarah A , Smith Michael C , Seamon Mark J ,   Fasciotomy Group Investigators
Published: February 2023

Background:

Surgical dogma states that “if you think about doing a fasciotomy, you do it,” yet the outcome benefit to this approach remains unclear. We hypothesized that early fasciotomy during index operative procedures for extremity vascular trauma would be associated with improved patient outcomes.

Study Design:

This prospective, observational multicenter (17 Level-I, one Level-II) analysis included patients ≥15 years-old with extremity vascular injuries requiring operative management. Clinical variables were analyzed with respect to fasciotomy timing for correlation with outcomes including muscle necrosis and limb amputation. Associated variables (p<0.05) were input into multivariable logistic regression models evaluating these endpoints.

Results:

Of 436 study patients, most were males (87%) with penetrating (57%) lower extremity (77%) arterial (73%) vein (40%) and bony (53%) injuries with prolonged hospital length of stay (11 days). Patients who had index fasciotomy (66%) were compared to those who did not (34%) and no differences were appreciated with respect to age, initial SBP, tourniquet time, “hard” signs of vascular injury, MTP activation, or ISS (all p<0.05). Of the 289 patients who underwent index fasciotomy, 49% were prophylactic, 11% developed muscle necrosis, 4% required an additional fasciotomy and 8% required amputation while only 28 of 147 (19%) required delayed fasciotomy in those without index fasciotomy. Importantly, forgoing index fasciotomy did not correlate (p>0.05) with additional muscle necrosis or amputation risk in the delayed fasciotomy group. After controlling for confounders, index surgery fasciotomy was not associated with either muscle necrosis or limb salvage in multivariable models.

Conclusions:

Routine, index operation fasciotomy failed to demonstrate an outcome benefit in this prospective, multicenter analysis. Our data suggests that a careful observation and fasciotomy when needed approach may limit unnecessary surgery and its resulting morbidity in extremity vascular trauma patients.
IMPACT: a web server for exploring immunotherapeutic predictive and cancer prognostic biomarkers
Authors: Liu Yutao , Zhang Yundi , Xie Wenchuan , Zhao Jing , Dong Yiting , Xu Chunwei , Wang Yanan , Li Man , Wang Guoqiang , Zhu Xin , Wang Wenxian , Lin Kequan , Lu Huafei , Han Yusheng , Li Leo , Duan Jianchun , Cai Shangli , Wang Jie , Wang Zhijie
Published: February 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a breakthrough in oncology treatment, and studies of screening predictive biomarkers of ICIs are emerging. We developed a web server named IMPACT (http://impact.brbiotech.com/) to thoroughly explore immunotherapeutic predictive or prognostic biomarkers. IMPACT contains a large dataset of 6,276 patients treated with ICIs and integrates 11 well-designed function modules, enabling an in-depth solution for biomarkers exploration. Compared with the existing tools, IMPACT was implemented with one exclusive module for interaction analysis and several optimized conventional functions for discovering novel biomarkers. Specifically, the interaction analysis of biomarker-treatment effect is essential to determine whether a biomarker is predictive and/or prognostic for ICIs. Moreover, several optimized functions allow complicated biomarker exploration, including customized selections of variant types in more detail, automatically screening meaningful co-mutations among multiple genes, and selecting cut-off values for gene expression biomarkers. In summary, IMPACT is a comprehensive analysis resource to facilitate biomarker research of ICIs.
Use of electron backscatter diffraction patterns to determine the crystal lattice. Part 2. Offset corrections
Authors: Nolze Gert , Tokarski Tomasz , Rychłowski Łukasz
Published: February 2023

A band width determination using the first derivative of the band profile systematically underestimates the true Bragg angle. Corrections are proposed to compensate for the resulting offset Δa/aof the mean lattice parameters derived from as many Kikuchi band widths as possible. For dynamically simulated Kikuchi patterns, Δa/acan reach up to 8% for phases with a high mean atomic numberZ, whereas for much more common low-Zmaterials the offset decreases linearly. A predicted offset Δa/a=f(Z) is therefore proposed, which also includes the unit-cell volume and thus takes into account the packing density of the scatterers in the material. SinceZis not always available for unknown phases, its substitution byZmax,i.e.the atomic number of the heaviest element in the compound, is still acceptable for an approximate correction. For simulated Kikuchi patterns the offset-corrected lattice parameter deviation is Δa/a< 1.5%. The lattice parameter ratios, and the angles α, β and γ between the basis vectors, are not affected at all.
Measurement and analysis of vibration characteristics of nanocrystalline magnetic core under symmetrical/asymmetrical waveforms
Authors: Chen Bin , Xi Binsheng , Wan Nina , Wang Shuaibing , Tang Bo
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Because the nanocrystalline core is widely used in power electronic equipment, and the excitation waveform of its working mode is complex, the vibration at medium and high frequencies cannot be ignored. Therefore, this study aims to study the vibration mechanism of nanocrystalline strip and the vibration characteristics of nanocrystalline magnetic ring under different excitation waveforms.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the electromagnetic vibration mechanism between nanocrystalline strips is analyzed by finite element analysis, and the force of the magnetic ring with and without air gap is compared and analyzed. Then, the vibration of nanocrystalline magnetic ring under different excitation waveforms such as sine wave, triangular wave, symmetric rectangular wave and asymmetric rectangular wave is analyzed by experimental method. The acceleration time domain waveform measured by the experiment is analyzed by fast Fourier transform, and the vibration is analyzed according to the spectrum.

Findings

Because of the increase of magnetic flux leakage, the volume force density and the Maxwell force on the surface of the nanocrystalline magnetic ring will increase after the air gap is opened, resulting in the intensification of vibration. Under symmetric/asymmetric rectangular wave excitation, the vibration acceleration varies with the duty cycle. Due to the influence of harmonic excitation, the relationship between the main frequency of vibration and the excitation frequency is not two times, and its multiple decreases with the increase of excitation frequency.

Originality/value

The research and analysis of this paper can promote the application of new magnetic materials in electrical equipment in small and medium-sized and medium- to high-frequency fields.
Non-linear dynamics and stability of rolling bearing–axle coupling system of a railway freight wagon with the change of axle rotating speed
Authors: Juping Yang , Wang Junguo , Yongxiang Zhao
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the non-linear characteristics and stability of the rolling bearing–axle coupling system under the excitation of the axle/wheel speed of railway freight cars, so as to put forward a rationale for judging the vibration law and running stability of railway freight wagon.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the effects of eccentric force of the railway wagon axle, the non-linear resistance of the wagon and non-linear support forces of axle box rolling bearings, a centralized mass model of rolling bearing-axle coupling system of railway freight wagon is presented on the basis of the theory of rotor dynamics and non-linear dynamics. Then the Runge-Kutta method is adopted to solve the non-linear response of the proposed system, and numerical simulation including bifurcation diagrams, axis trajectory curves, phase plane plots, Poincaré sections and amplitude spectras are analysed when the axle rotating speed is changed. Meantime, the relation curve between Floquet multiplier and axle rotating speed, which affects the stability of coupling system, is plotted by numerical method based on the Floquet theory and method.

Findings

The simulation results of the dynamic model reveal the abundant dynamic behaviour of the coupling system when the axle rotating speed changes, including single period, quasi period, multi-period and chaotic motion, as well as the evolution law from multi-period motion to chaotic motion. And especially, the bearing–axle coupling system is in stable state with a single period motion when the axle rotating speed changes from 410 rpm to 510 rpm, in which the running speed of railway freight wagon is changed from 62 km/h to 80 km/h, the vibration displacement of the coupling system in X direction is between 1.2 mm and 1.8 mm, and the vibration displacement of the coupling system in Y direction is between 1.0 mm and 1.45 mm. Meanwhile, the influence law of axle rotating speed on the stability is obtained by comparing the bifurcation diagram and Floquet multiplier graph of the coupling system.

Originality/value

The numerical simulation data obtained in this study can provide a theoretical evidence for designing the running speed of railway freight wagon, utilizing or controlling the non-linear dynamic behaviours of the proposed coupling system, and ensuring the stability of railway freight wagons.
Why do firms adopt collective incentives? An analysis of family and non-family firms
Authors: Salimi Meysam , Della Torre Edoardo , Miniaci Raffaele
Published: February 2023

Purpose

By combining structural contingency theory and socio-emotional wealth (SEW) theory, this study aims to identify the organizational determinants of collective performance-related pay (PRP) adoption by examining the interplay between a firm's ownership characteristics (i.e. family or non-family ownership) and other organizational characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a quantitative approach, conducting empirical analyses of a longitudinal dataset of 4,222 Italian companies in the manufacturing sector for 2009–2017. The probability of adopting collective PRP schemes is estimated using the average marginal effects of the probit and linear probability models (LPMs).

Findings

The results show that family firms are less likely to adopt collective PRP schemes than non-family firms. Moreover, ceteris paribus, firm characteristics such as size, age and past (firm and labor) productivity are important determinants of firms' adoption of collective incentive pay; however, the significance and magnitude of their effects vary depending on a firm's ownership structure.

Originality/value

This analysis has two major elements of novelty. First, it increases the knowledge of how organizational contingencies differ in family versus non-family contexts regarding pay decisions. Second, it brings new theoretical perspectives to the pay debate by combining structural contingency theory and SEW theory, thus developing new and fertile theoretical grounds for advancing our understanding of the pay determinants. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is one of the first (if any) studies to shed light on collective PRP in family and non-family firms.
Investigation of the multi-layers of imprinting on corporate working capital management
Authors: Davaadorj Zagdbazar , Enkhtaivan Bolortuya , Weathers Jamie
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate the imprinting effect on working capital (WC) management as higher-level managers' transition to chief executive officer (CEO) positions. This paper proposes that WC management defined as a shorter cash conversion cycle (CCC) can be carried forward to the new firm when the managers are appointed as a CEO.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ a multivariate regression approach. The data in this study come from two sources: Execucomp which provides data for corporate managers of the largest 2,000 USA firms including S&P 1,500 US and Compustat which provides financial information of firms.

Findings

The authors find a positive imprinting effect of “new” CEOs on WC outcomes – proxied by the CCC. CCC shortens by approximately 16 days when CEOs are efficient managers at previous institutions, predominantly derived from improvements in inventory and payables. The effect is sensitive to individuals' age, familiarity with the industry and high-pressure circumstances.

Practical implications

The paper includes important implications of WC management for firms to consider, especially during economic crises when liquidity management is a priority.

Originality/value

This paper extends the literature on the imprinting effect on managerial decision-making. The paper offers evidence of cooperative yet dynamic efforts in managing WC during CEO turnover events, which are unique findings.
Perceptions of market orientation in emerging economy entrepreneurship: evidence from crowdfunding
Authors: Creek Steven A. , Maurer Joshua D. , Kent Justin K.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how crowdfunding backer perceptions of market orientation and foreignness impact crowdfunding performance in emerging economies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using content analysis software, the authors analyzed 756 Kickstarter campaign narratives from the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa for the period between 2009 and 2019.

Findings

The authors’ results show that behavioral market orientation signals are positively related to amounts raised while decision criteria signals are negatively related. The authors also find that foreign entrepreneur status interacts with the two market orientations to impact funding amounts.

Practical implications

When creating crowdfunding campaigns in emerging economies, domestic entrepreneurs should use high levels of behavioral market orientation rhetoric but low levels of decision criteria rhetoric within their campaign narratives.

Originality/value

This study unpacks the components of market orientation and examines their positive and negative effects on crowdfunding success in the context of emerging economies.
Small bowel necrosis after esophagectomy
Authors: Shao Longlong , Li Bin , Sun Yihua , Hu Hong , Zhang Yawei , Xiang Jiaqing , Chen Haiquan
Published: February 2023

Background

The study aimed to fully understand small bowel necrosis, a rare but fatal complication after esophagectomy.

Methods

Patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer at the Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center from January 2013 to December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical information on the demographics, presenting features, and outcomes of the cases were collected.

Results

Of the 6607 patients during the study period, 11 (0.2%) underwent reoperation due to bowel necrosis, including nine males (81.8%) and two females (18.2%). Among them, eight cases (72.7%) had hypertension and seven (63.6%) suffered from lower thoracic esophageal cancer. Eight (72.7%) and three (27.3%) patients underwent the Ivor‐Lewis and McKewon procedures, respectively. Jejunostomy was performed in nine patients (81.8%). The first signs of bowel necrosis appeared within 5 days after esophagectomy. Abdominal distension and deteriorating renal function were observed in seven patients (63.6%). There was no evidence of mesenteric vascular occlusion in any of the 11 cases, except for the hepatic portal venous gas found in seven patients on the computed tomography (CT) scan. Eight (72.7%) of the 11 patients underwent reoperation within 24 h due to the onset of the first symptoms. Eight (72.7%) had ileal necrosis, and three (27.3%) died.

Conclusion

Close attention should be paid to patients with abdominal distension, renal function damage, and portal hepatic venous gas after esophagectomy. These patients may suffer from small bowel necrosis, which may result in rapid disease progression. Exploratory laparotomy and bowel resection are effective treatments for such patients.
Evaluation of an educational program for people with dementia and their caregivers
Authors: O'Connell Beverly , Ghosh Manonita , Dunham Melissa , Smyth Aisling
Published: February 2023

Objectives

This study evaluated the impact of a 5‐week educational and supportive program for people newly diagnosed with dementia and their caregivers.

Methods

The study involved a pretest–posttest survey followed by interviews. Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was conducted to determine postprogram changes. Kruskal–Wallis tests measured variation in responses between the people with dementia and their caregivers. Interviews were analysed using the NVivo software identifying themes against the program objectives of improving knowledge on dementia, coping strategies, communication and support services for people with dementia and their caregivers.

Results

Fifty‐three dyads (n = 106) completed the survey. There were significant improvements in participants' level of understanding of dementia (z = −8.04, p < 0.001), knowledge of local services (z = −8.11, p < 0.001) and coping with life with dementia (z = −6.93, p < 0.001). These findings were consistent with interview data from 16 dyads.

Conclusions

The increasing number of people with dementia and their caregivers living in the community present health challenges. Programs that assist this group to function well in the community are important. Evaluation of this program indicated improved outcomes in relation to adjusting to life with dementia, enhancing knowledge, fostering communication and reducing feelings of isolation. Areas of improvement included lengthening the program with ongoing contact sessions with program facilitators and other participants. Given the positive effects of the program on this vulnerable group of people, it maybe useful for health‐care agencies involved in dementia care to conduct this type of program as a matter of routine treatment and care for people newly diagnosed with dementia.
The Pedagogical Account of Parliamentarism at India's Founding
Authors: Bhatia Udit
Published: February 2023

This article explores a distinctive approach to parliamentarism advanced by key figures from India's founding period in response to their anxieties about concerns about the masses’ backwardness alongside a commitment to democratic self‐rule. Both orientations, one democratic and the other, suspicious of the peoples’ political capacities, existed alongside each other in tension, generating a dilemma: how could the seemingly backward masses facilitate the overthrow of their backwardness in a democratic process? The thinkers studied in this article responded, I argue, with a pedagogical conception of parliamentarism, which viewed parliament and legislators as bearing the function of preparing the masses for democratic citizenship. Their approach represented a critical departure from the ideal of a deliberative legislative assembly at the apex of the lawmaking process, while avoiding strategies of exclusion historically associated with parliamentarism.
Inclusive urban entrepreneurial ecosystem: An exploration of factors affecting organizational ambidexterity
Authors: Shakiba Hojjat , Pazhouhan Ayoub , Amiri Saba , Sakhdari Kamal
Published: February 2023

One of the main challenges inclusive urban entrepreneurial ecosystems (IUEEs) face is balancing their organizations' two opposing individual and cooperative activities. The closest concept in the management of dual structures is the so‐called organizational ambidexterity (OA). We refer to it as “Individual–Collective Organizational Ambidexterity”. Thus, it is necessary to explore factors affecting the OA of the IUEE's organizations to benefit simultaneously from individual and collective potentials and form successfully. To do so, a model was designed by examining the factors affecting the OA capacity of the IUEE's organizations. The statistical population was organizations involved in the IUEE of 36 cities in Kermanshah province, one of the poorest provinces in IRAN (N = 2041). 328 valid responses were collected as statistical sample based on the sampling table of Krejcie and Morgan (from 1970), and through the proportional stratified sampling method. The main instrument was a questionnaire. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 26 and Smartpls3 software. The results showed among the factors studied, diversity, learning orientation, and promotion of entrepreneurial culture had a positive and significant effect on OA. Networking capacities and commitment to collaboration in the ecosystem did not significantly affect OA. OA also had a positive and significant effect on the performance of IUEE. The discussion eventually suggests the future directions of the research. The findings of this study can be used to develop IUEEs and achieve entrepreneurial cities.
The effect of storybook reading on children's preoperative fear and anxiety levels: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Sarialioğlu Arzu , Kurudirek Fatma , Oluç Tuğba
Published: February 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of reading a preoperative preparation‐themed storybook on children's preoperative fear and anxiety levels.

Methods

The research design was a randomized controlled experiment. The research sample included 80 children (40 in the story group and 40 in the control group) who met the inclusion criteria. Data collection tools were collected through face‐to‐face interviews with the ‘Survey Form’, ‘Child Fear Scale (CFS)’ and ‘Modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (mYPAS)’. In the research, the book named Elif Has Surgery was used as an intervention tool. In the story group, the preoperative preparation‐themed storybook was read to the child in their room at the clinic by their mother within 10 min. The control group received only clinical routine. The study was approved by the ethics committee.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the mean scores of the CFS and mYPAS scales in the control and story groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study found that reading a preoperative preparation‐themed storybook reduced children's fear and anxiety before surgery. It may be recommended to expand the use of preoperative preparation‐themed storybooks in order to prevent fear and anxiety experienced before surgery in paediatric surgery clinics. Story reading is an effective, cheap, non‐pharmacological intervention.

The clinical trial registration number is NCT05478369.
Dynamic attention signalling in V4: Relation to fast‐spiking/non‐fast‐spiking cell class and population coupling
Authors: Sachse Elizabeth M. , Snyder Adam C.
Published: February 2023

The computational role of a neuron during attention depends on its firing properties, neurotransmitter expression and functional connectivity. Neurons in the visual cortical area V4 are reliably engaged by selective attention but exhibit diversity in the effect of attention on firing rates and correlated variability. It remains unclear what specific neuronal properties shape these attention effects. In this study, we quantitatively characterised the distribution of attention modulation of firing rates across populations of V4 neurons. Neurons exhibited a continuum of time‐varying attention effects. At one end of the continuum, neurons' spontaneous firing rates were slightly depressed with attention (compared to when unattended), whereas their stimulus responses were enhanced with attention. The other end of the continuum showed the converse pattern: attention depressed stimulus responses but increased spontaneous activity. We tested whether the particular pattern of time‐varying attention effects that a neuron exhibited was related to the shape of their actions potentials (so‐called ‘fast‐spiking’ [FS] neurons have been linked to inhibition) and the strength of their coupling to the overall population. We found an interdependence among neural attention effects, neuron type and population coupling. In particular, we found neurons for which attention enhanced spontaneous activity but suppressed stimulus responses were less likely to be fast‐spiking (more likely to be non‐fast‐spiking) and tended to have stronger population coupling, compared to neurons with other types of attention effects. These results add important information to our understanding of visual attention circuits at the cellular level.