bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The feasibility of one-day length of hospital stay after pediatric percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Saber-Khalah Mohammed , Reyad A.M. , Gamal Wael , Elmoghazy Hazem , Abd Elhamed Ahmed Mamdouh , Rashed Mohamed Elnisr , Abdellah Abdelrahman M , Badawy Abdelbasset A
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety of one-day length of hospital stay (LOS) after pediatric percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL), and to study the predictors of LOS.

Methods:

A retrospective study included pediatric patients who PNL for renal calculi more than 1 cm between January 2016 and October 2019. PNL was performed in prone position. The nephrostomy tubes and ureteric catheters were removed on the second day and patients were discharged if there was no perforation or significant residual stones. The stone free rate, LOS and the surgical complications were reported. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were used to predict the LOS.

Results:

220 patients were identified. The median age (range) was eight (Range: 3–17) years. Stone free rate was achieved in 200 patients (91%) of patients, while residual fragments were detected in 20 patients (9%). Complications, they were reported in 50 (22.7%) patients. 184 (83.6%) of patients stayed at the hospital for only 1 day, while 36 (16. 4%) stayed more than 1 day. Of 36 patients who stayed more than one-day, 34 had complications ( p value <0.001). On multivariate analysis, surgical complications was found to be the only predictor of longer LOS ( p value <0.001).

Conclusion:

Early nephrostomy tube removal and 1-day length of hospital stay could be a safe option after pediatric PNL. Surgical complications is a statistically significant predictor of longer LOS.
Mutant worlds, migrant words: Rabindranath Tagore, Mahasweta Devi and Amitav Ghosh
Authors: Chakravarty Radha
Published: February 2021

Drawing upon the insights of Rabindranath Tagore, who coined the term viswasahitya to express his own understanding of comparative literature, this essay resituates translation as the cornerstone for new directions in world literature. While conventional understandings of world literature tend to reconfirm existing power structures and hierarchies, translation opens up the possibility of thinking beyond the national/global binary by interrogating the lines along which such binaries are conceptualized. Translation operates at the borders that are seen to divide cultures, languages, worldviews and geographies. This essay explores the dynamic relationship between translation and world literature within contemporary South Asian writing, through an analysis of heteroglossia, multilingualism and ‘translatedness’ in selected texts by Mahasweta Devi and Amitav Ghosh, opening up larger questions about multilingualism and also about the very discipline of comparative literature. Highlighting the role that translation has historically played in shaping power relations in the world, this paper projects the transformative potential of translation as the key to a radical reconceptualization of a world literature for the future.
Long-Term Care Expectations and Plans of Transgender and Nonbinary Older Adults
Authors: Knochel K. Abel , Flunker Dylan
Published: February 2021

Problem:

Transgender and nonbinary (TNB) older adults endure discrimination from medical providers and expect it in institutional long-term care. Gender identity–based discrimination is connected to negative health outcomes and reluctance to access needed care.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to explore how gender identity affects TNB older adults’ fears, hopes, and plans for use of institutional long-term care.

Method:

Co-investigators conducted semi-structured interviews with 24 TNB older adults in Minnesota, collaboratively analyzed the results using reflexive thematic analysis, and member-checked emergent themes.

Findings:

Oppression is central to participants’ consideration of future long-term care. They fear mistreatment and loss of authentic gender expression and recognition in long-term care facilities. Fears of oppression factor into consideration of suicide and physical transition, although some participants hope societal shifts will lead to unbiased long-term care.

Conclusion:

Creation of anti-oppressive institutional and community-based long-term care options is critical to effectively serve TNB people as they age into dependence.
The Development and Validation of the Robotics Learning Self-Efficacy Scale (RLSES)
Authors: Tsai Meng-Jung , Wang Ching-Yeh , Wu An-Hsuan , Hsiao Chun-Ying
Published: February 2021

Robotics education has gradually been emphasized in contemporary school curricula; however, assessment tools for robotics learning are still limited. Based on Bloom’s Taxonomy of educational objectives, this study aimed to develop the Robotics Learning Self-Efficacy Scale (RLSES) with a two-level construct of five dimensions for assessing students’ self-efficacy for learning robotics. A total of 181 elementary, junior high and senior high school students (5th–12th graders) with robotics learning experience were selected as the sample of this study. A questionnaire including 32 candidate items designed for the initial version of the RLSES was administered to the sample. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted and, finally, 16 items were drawn for the final RLSES under five subscales ( Comprehension, Practice, Analysis, Application, and Collaboration), with a total explained variance of 85.28%. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability was .97 for the overall scale, ranging from .87 to .95 for the subscales. The inter-correlation analysis showed evidence of discriminant validity. Regression analysis results supported that Practice and Comprehension self-efficacy were significant predictors of Analysis, Application, and Collaboration self-efficacy, confirming the two-level (2 × 3) construct of the RLSES. Significant differences among school levels were found and are discussed.
Investigating the Role of Open Costing in the Buyer-Supplier Relationship: Implications for Global Apparel Supply Chain Management
Authors: Wu Huicheng , Su Jin , Hodges Nancy
Published: February 2021

Research in supply chain management focused on the buyer-supplier relationship (BSR) indicates that costing practices can impact relationship quality and performance. Yet, few studies have examined how the supplier’s costing methods affect the BSR. To address this gap, this study investigates the role of open costing in the BSR within the apparel supply chain. Open costing is a popular costing practice in which a supplier compiles an itemized list of costs rather than a fixed price. To examine the extent to which open costing is practiced as part of BSRs, interviews were conducted with 30 professionals operating as suppliers in China and Bangladesh. A thematic analysis of the interview data identified several factors important to open costing and the BSR, including Mutual Trust, Fairness, Flexibility, Efficiency, and Sustainability. Findings shed light on the mechanism and practice of open costing within the BSR, and specifically from the perspective of suppliers.
Should We Worry About Setting? Association of Program Fidelity with Youths’ Satisfaction and Intention to Practice Safer Sex
Authors: Monalisa Nazratun Nayeem , Macauda Mark Michael
Published: February 2021

Purpose:

To examine whether deviation from fidelity in the implementation of an evidence-based program on safer sex education affected youth satisfaction and intention to avoid risky sexual behaviors.

Design:

Implementation evaluation.

Setting:

In-school and out-of-school settings in South Carolina.

Participants:

Three thousand seventy-three youths aged 10 to 14 years.

Intervention:

Making Proud Choices.

Measures:

Fidelity variables were implementation setting, program length, class size, gender composition, and curriculum adaptations. Outcome variables were youth program satisfaction and intentions to remain abstinent or avoid risky sexual behaviors postintervention.

Analysis:

Chi-square and t tests tested in-school and out-of-school comparisons. Multiple linear regression examined predictors of youth program satisfaction and intention to avoid risky behaviors.

Results:

Program duration ( B = .002), class size ( B = .074), program completion rate ( B = .004), gender ( B = .223), and race ( B = .263) predicted program satisfaction ( P < .05; R2 = 0.094). Longer program duration was negatively associated with planned abstinence ( B = −.002), contraception use ( B = −.004), and condom use ( B = −.002). Participants in single-gender classes ( B = .387) and females ( B = .256) were more likely to practice safer sex. Low R2 showed limited impact on intention to practice safer sex ( R2 = .030 and.015) and remaining abstinent ( R2 = .033).

Conclusion:

Although fidelity deviations do impact youth satisfaction and intentions, the impact is not large. Implementations adapted to fit local settings can still be beneficial.
Safety and Tolerability of APOE Genotyping and Disclosure in Cognitively Normal Volunteers From the Butler Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry
Authors: Alber Jessica , Popescu Dominique , Thompson Louisa I. , Tonini Gina-Marie , Arthur Edmund , Oh Hwamee , Correia Stephen , Salloway Stephen P. , Lee Athene K.
Published: February 2021

Aims:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a gradually progressive neurodegenerative disease that ultimately results in total loss of cognitive and functional independence in older adults. This study aimed to examine the safety and tolerability of APOE disclosure in community-dwelling, cognitively normal (CN) older adults from the Butler Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry (BAPR), and to determine whether APOE disclosure impacted participant’s decisions to participate in AD clinical research.

Methods:

186 (N = 106 ∊4 non-carriers, 80 ∊4 carriers) CN older adults aged 58-78 from the BAPR completed 2 visits: one for psychological readiness screening and genotyping and one for APOE disclosure. Online follow-ups were completed 3 days, 6 weeks, and 6 months post-disclosure. Primary outcomes were scores on self-report measures of depression, anxiety, impact of events, and perceived risk of AD, along with enrollment in AD clinical trials.

Results:

∊4 carriers and non-carriers did not differ significantly on measures of depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation over the 6-month follow-up period. ∊4 carriers reported higher impact of disclosure than non-carriers immediately after disclosure, but both groups’ scores on impact of events measures remained sub-clinical. ∊4 carriers and non-carriers were equally likely to participate in AD research after disclosure, with genotype-dependent differences in type of clinical trial enrollment.

Conclusions:

APOE genotyping and disclosure was safe and well tolerated in a group of CN, community-dwelling older adults, who were pre-screened after volunteering for AD research through BAPR. Implications for the inclusion of APOE genotyping and disclosure at AD clinical trial sites are discussed.
A Class Analysis of the Expansion of COVID-19 in Peru: The Case of Metropolitan Lima
Authors: Lust Jan
Published: February 2021

Peru has become one of the most affected and infected countries by COVID-19. The expansion of the virus could not be contained by a complete lockdown and a state of emergency. In this article we discuss the principal conditions for the expansion of the new coronavirus in Peru and examine what part of the population is most affected and infected by the virus. We find that Peru’s role in the international division of labor, the country’s company structure, high levels of informality, and the general use of temporary contracts are the structural conditions on which the expansion of COVID-19 in Peru rests. This article shows that the laboring classes are the principally infected and affected by the new coronavirus. The Peruvian neoliberal development model has been responsible for the government’s limitation to implement measures according the country’s social and economic structure that might have contained the expansion of COVID-19.
Immigrant–Native Disparities in Happiness among Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Western European Countries: The Moderating Role of Social Capital
Authors: Jiang Nan , Renema Jeanette A. J.
Published: February 2021

Objective: This study investigated native–immigrant disparities in happiness among middle-aged and older adults in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands and the moderating role of social capital associated with such disparities. Methods: Cross-sectional data from 2583 respondents aged 50 years or older from 10 origin countries from the 2015 wave of the Migrants’ Welfare State Attitudes survey were used to estimate linear regression models. Results: Older immigrants experienced different levels of happiness compared with native-born individuals. Immigrants’ socioeconomic status and other standard predictors accounted for much of the native–immigrant gap. Depending on origin countries, social capital had differential moderating roles compared to nonimmigrants. Conclusion: Immigrants were not always worse off than native-born residents; they showed a “happiness advantage” after controlling for socioeconomic status and related covariates. Social capital plays an important role in narrowing the immigrant–native gap in happiness.
Evidence for the 4Ms: Interactions and Outcomes across the Care Continuum
Authors: Mate Kedar , Fulmer Terry , Pelton Leslie , Berman Amy , Bonner Alice , Huang Wendy , Zhang Jinghan
Published: February 2021

Objectives: An expert panel reviewed and summarized the literature related to the evidence for the 4Ms—what matters, medication, mentation, and mobility—in supporting care for older adults. Methods: In 2017, geriatric experts and health system executives collaborated with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) to develop the 4Ms framework. Through a strategic search of the IHI database and recent literature, evidence was compiled in support of the framework’s positive clinical outcomes. Results: Asking what matters from the outset of care planning improved both psychological and physiological health statuses. Using screening protocols such as the Beers’ criteria inhibited overprescribing. Mentation strategies aided in prevention and treatment. Fall risk and physical function assessment with early goals and safe environments allowed for safe mobility. Discussion: Through a framework that reduces cognitive load of providers and improves the reliability of evidence-based care for older adults, all clinicians and healthcare workers can engage in age-friendly care.
The Use of Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Substitute (BCP) in Mandibular Defects in Dogs: Use of CBCT to Evaluate Bone Healing
Authors: Girard Nicolas , Cauvin Edouard R. J. , Gauthier Olivier , Gatel Laure
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to assess the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to follow-up bone healing of mandibular bone defects in dogs, filled with a combination of autologous blood and millimetric BCP granules. CBCT was performed ≥4 weeks postoperatively. CBCT gray-scale values were measured from multiplanar reconstructions of the defects and compared to that of normal contralateral mandibular bone and to pure BCP/blood composite time 0 (T0) value. Other parameters, determined by affecting grades according to specific criteria included: bone ridge margin restoration; biomaterial homogeneity; bone-biomaterial interface. Results: 8 dogs with 14 defects were included. Median age was 7.2 years (1-15 years). Follow-up CBCT was performed 1 to 7.5 months postoperatively (mean 3.3 months). Defect CBCT gray-scale values at follow-up were significantly greater than T0 (p < 0.05). Ratios of maximum and minimum densities of the defects to contralateral mandibular bone followed a linear correlation with time (p < 0.05). The bone ridge margin was adequately restored in all the defects and significantly correlated with time (p = 0.03). Biomaterial homogeneity was fair to good in 11 defects and significantly correlated with the bone ridge margin parameter (p = 0.05) and time (p = 0.006). There was no significant correlation with the bone-material interface. The latter was satisfactory in 12 defects and significantly correlated with time (p = 0.01) but not with the other parameters. The biomaterial was more homogeneous in smaller defects and with increasing time. CBCT allowed effective assessment of bone healing via the measurement of CBCT gray-scale values and assessment of multiple radiological variables.
Combining teaching “about” and “through” entrepreneurship: A practice to develop students’ entrepreneurial competencies
Authors: Chaker Hajer , Jarraya Houyem
Published: February 2021

Many universities have incorporated entrepreneurship education into their programs. However, research and the practice show that this curriculum is taught in various ways, which the authors group into three themes: teaching about entrepreneurship, teaching for entrepreneurship, and teaching through entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship educators face several challenges, especially the difficulties in defining the best way to teach entrepreneurship and the lack of evaluation of the chosen method’s effectiveness. This article focuses specifically on how entrepreneurship is taught at the Faculty of Economics and Management of Tunis and what effect it may have on the development of students’ entrepreneurial competencies. It attempts to support entrepreneurship educators by describing a pilot experience consisting of combining teaching about and through entrepreneurship and a conventional method that adopts just teaching about entrepreneurship. These descriptions may help to explore and uncover what happens in the classroom and aid teachers in choosing the appropriate practices to achieve their educational objectives. The article evaluates the two programs by comparing their effects on the development of students’ entrepreneurial competencies. The authors use a two-sample independent t-test to make the comparison, and the results indicate that the combined method is stronger overall than the conventional method.
Effect of plasma preheating on weld quality and tool life during friction stir welding of DH36 steel
Authors: Tiwari Avinish , Pankaj Pardeep , Suman Saurav , Singh Piyush , Biswas Pankaj , Pal Sukhomay , Rao A. Gourav
Published: February 2021

Friction stir welding (FSW) of high strength materials is challenging due to high tool cost and low tool life. To address this issue, the present investigation deals with an alternative of plasma-assisted friction stir welding (PFSW) of DH36 steel with WC-10%Co tool. Plasma preheating current (13 A, 15 A, and 17 A) was varied by keeping other FSW parameters as constant. During the FSW and PFSW process, force measurement and thermal history aided in a deep understanding of the process, tool degradation mechanisms, accompanied by the mechanical and microstructural characterization of the welded joints. The stir zone hardness was increased from 140 HV0.5 to about 267 HV0.5. The yield and tensile strength of weld increased from 385 MPa and 514 MPa to about 391 MPa and 539 MPa, respectively. Weld joint elongation (%) was increased from ~10% of weld 1 to ~13.89% of weld 4. During PFSW, the process temperature was increased, the cooling rate was lowered, and the weld bead was widened. The results also revealed that the plasma-assisted weld resulted in polygonal ([Formula: see text]) and allotriomorphic ferrite as the major constituents in the stir zone. Pearlite dissolution and spheroidization were observed in the ICHAZ and SCHAZ, respectively. Additionally, the plasma preheating reduced the tungsten tool’s wear by 58% compared to FSW.
Attitudes Based on Feelings: Fixed or Fleeting?
Authors: Rocklage Matthew D. , Luttrell Andrew
Published: February 2021

Researchers and practitioners want to create opinions that stick. Yet whereas some opinions stay fixed, others are as fleeting as the time it takes to report them. In seven longitudinal studies with more than 20,000 individuals, we found that attitudes based more on emotion are relatively fixed. Whether participants evaluated brand-new Christmas gifts or one of 40 brands, the more emotional their opinion, the less it changed over time, particularly if it was positive. In a word-of-mouth linguistic analysis of 75,000 real-world online reviews, we found that the more emotional consumers are in their first review, the more that attitude persists when they express it again even years later. Finally, more emotion-evoking persuasive messages create attitudes that decay less over time, further establishing emotion’s causal effect. These effects persist above and beyond other attitude-strength attributes. Interestingly, we also found that lay individuals generally fail to appreciate the relation between emotionality and attitude stability.
Gene expression profiles of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of psoriasis patients
Authors: Özcan SS , Gürel G , Çakır M
Published: February 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are involved in the pathological process. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels expressed in immune cells have been shown to be associated with inflammatory diseases. We aimed to evaluate mRNA expression levels of TRP channels in PBMCs of patients with psoriasis. 30 patients with plaque psoriasis and 30 healthy age- and gender-matched control subjects were included in this study. mRNA expression levels of TRP channels in psoriasis patients were determined by Real-time polymerase chain reaction. A decreased TRPM4, TRPM7, TRPV3, TRPV4, and TRPC6 genes expression levels were found in the patient group compared to controls, respectively ( p = 0.045, p = 0.000, p = 0.000, p = 0.045, p = 0.009), whereas, an increased expression level was found in TRPM2 and TRPV1 genes in the patient group compared to controls ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.028). This is the first study showing the TRP channel mRNA expressions in PBMCs of psoriasis patients. Different expression patterns of TRP channels may have a role in pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Heavy metal and essential elements in beers from turkey market: A risk assessment study
Authors: Charehsaz M , Helvacıoğlu S , Çetinkaya S , Demir R , Erdem O , Aydin A
Published: February 2021

In this study, the level of arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) and also essential elements in beer samples consumed in Turkey were investigated using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. The heavy metal-induced non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were calculated. For essential elements, the calculated estimated daily intake of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), selenium (Se) and cobalt (Co) from beer consumption were compared with their toxicity reference values. Tukey post-hoc test showed that As was found at a significantly higher level when compared to Pb. Also, a significant correlation was found between As level and alcohol by volume percent. All samples had a hazard quotient and hazard index <1, indicating no non-carcinogenic risk from exposure to single or multiple heavy metals. Some samples exceeded the threshold limit of acceptable cancer risk for As in the high beer consumer group. This assessment showed that in addition to health implications based on the alcohol content of beer, there might be a carcinogenic risk associated with the heavy metals content of these beverages.
Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus triggered after measles vaccination
Authors: de Mattos Alexandra Brugnera Nunes , Garbo Baroni Letícia , Zanotto Lhaís de Lima , Furian Maria Eduarda Alegretti
Published: February 2021

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a subtype of cutaneous lupus erythematosus that can be triggered by endogenous or exogenous factors. Among the exogenous factors are some medications, drugs, tobacco, infections, and vaccines. In this context, the benefits of vaccination are questioned because although it is important to prevent infections in immunosuppressed patients a theoretical risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains in these patients. This report presents a case of a previously healthy female patient who developed SCLE after measles vaccination and progressed to SLE and thereby suggests a possible trigger of the disease.
Are RNA-Based Tests Sufficient for COVID-19 Diagnosis? An Inspiration of Three Asymptomatic Cases
Authors: Hu Tao , Liu Xiao , Yin Qinan , Duan Xingting , Yan Li
Published: February 2021

In this work, we discovered a new phenomenon—asymptomatic COVID-19 infection, or covert case, during the pandemic. All the 3 patients had a history of exposure, with no symptoms, and no abnormalities were found in computed tomography scan or lab tests. Except for case 2, the other patients’ severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) nucleic acid tests were negative. But their anti-SARS-COV-2 nucleocapsid antibody showed a dynamic trend, consistent with the process of virus infection and clearance. A growing number of asymptomatic or covert cases need more attention. Lack of surveillance may lead to another outbreak. We hope to demonstrate our cases to attract the attention of governments or health authorities that covert cases should be the focus as well.
Three-dimensional Differentiated Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Exhibit Robust Antifibrotic Potential and Ameliorates Mouse Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Choi Ja Sung , Park Young-Jin , Kim Sung-Whan
Published: February 2021

Recently, three-dimensional (3D)-cultured adipose mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have provided an effective therapy for liver fibrosis. This study aimed to enhance the potential of human ASCs for antifibrosis or hepatocyte regeneration using a 3D culture system and investigate their therapeutic mechanism in experimental liver fibrosis. ASC-3Dc were generated in a 3D culture system and stimulated with four growth factors, namely epidermal growth factor, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, fibroblast growth factor-2, and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. The expression levels of antifibrotic or hepatic regeneration factors were then measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The therapeutic effects of ASC-3Dc were determined using a liver fibrosis model induced by thioacetamide. Histological analysis was performed to elucidate the therapeutic mechanism. ASC-3Dc exhibited high levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), IGF-1, stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1 genes, and protein expression. In addition, injecting ASC-3Dc significantly prevented hepatic fibrosis and improved liver function in vivo. Moreover, high numbers of ki-67-expressing hepatocytes were detected in the ASC-3Dc-injected livers. Albumin-expressing ASC-3Dc engrafted in fibrotic livers augmented HGF expression. Thus, short-term 3D-cultured ASCs may be a novel alternative to the conventional treatment for liver damage in clinical settings.
Electroacupuncture may alleviate behavioral defects via modulation of gut microbiota in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Han Qiu-Qin , Fu Yi , Le Jia-Mei , Pilot Adam , Cheng Si , Chen Pei-Qing , Wu Hailong , Wan Guo-Qing , Gu Xue-Feng
Published: February 2021

Objective:

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease involving non-motor symptoms, of which gastrointestinal disorders are the most common. In light of recent results, intestinal dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of PD. Electroacupuncture (EA) has shown potential effects, although the underlying mechanism remains mostly unknown. We speculated that EA could relieve the behavioral defects of PD, and that this effect would be associated with modulation of the gut microbiota.

Methods:

Mice were randomly divided into three groups: control, PD + MA (manual acupuncture), and PD + EA. MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) was used to establish the mouse model of PD. Rotarod performance tests, open field tests, and pole tests were carried out to assess motor deficiencies. Immunohistochemistry was conducted to examine the survival of dopaminergic neurons. 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was applied to investigate the alterations of the gut microbiome. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to characterize the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Results:

We found that EA was able to alleviate the behavioral defects in the rotarod performance test and pole test, and partially rescue the significant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) chemically induced by MPTP in mice. Moreover, the PD + MA mice showed a tendency toward decreased intestinal microbial alpha diversity, while EA significantly reversed it. The abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae was significantly increased in PD + MA mice, and the alteration was also reversed by EA. In addition, the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were substantially increased in the SN of PD + MA mice, an effect that was reversed by EA.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that EA may alleviate behavioral defects via modulation of gut microbiota and suppression of inflammation in the SN of mice with PD, which provides new insights into the pathogenesis of PD and its treatment.
The effect of fiber orientation on mechanical properties and machinability of GFRP composites by end milling using cutting force analysis
Authors: Kumar Abburi Lakshman , Prakash M
Published: February 2021

In recent years, glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite materials have become a viable alternative material for different engineering applications due to their superior/excellent properties. The strength of the composite is positively related to the orientation of the fiber material. However, the machinability is still a problem when components are manufactured using the GFRP composites due to their anisotropic properties. The aim of this analytical research paper is to investigate the influence of fiber orientation on the strength and machinability in slot milling of GFRP fabricated using the vacuum infusion method. The fiber orientations of 0°/90° and ±45° are used for the fabrication of GFRP composite laminates. The experiments were conducted using an orthogonal array. Analysis of variance was employed to determine the influence of milling parameters such as cutting speed, transverse feed rate, and axial depth of cut (A.D.O.C.) for the surface finish (Ra), cutting force, and Machinability index (MI). The MI is calculated based on specific cutting pressure. The influence of fiber orientation on the cutting force and surface topography was analyzed. It was concluded that the cutting forces were significantly influenced by the fiber orientation and not affected by the machining parameters. The results revealed that the transverse feed rate was the primary influencing parameter responsible for the increase in MI (40 to 56%). The A.D.O.C. was accountable for the increase in cutting force (55 to 94%). Similarly, the cutting speed influenced Ra, which increased from 17 to 37%.
Informed Choice and Nudging in Mammography Screening: A Discourse Analysis of Australian and Scandinavian Webpages
Authors: Solbjør Marit , Willis Karen
Published: February 2021

The tension between providing adequate information and achieving sufficiently high participation in population-based screening programmes, such as mammography, represents an ongoing challenge for health authorities. The theory of nudge illuminates how individuals may be nudged towards healthy behaviours without restricting individual freedom of choice. We analyse information provided on health authority webpages and uncover the subject positions available to healthy women deciding whether to participate in screening. We do so by comparing different policy contexts where women must opt in to screening (Australia) or opt out (Scandinavia).

We conclude that information is used to nudge women towards screening. Alongside focus on the ease of being screened, tensions exist in simultaneously portraying women as being at risk of breast cancer and providing reassurance of their healthy state. We identify persuasive devices that emphasise responsibility to participate in screening and conclude that webpages play a dynamic role in authorities’ attempts to, on one hand, achieve high participation in screening, and on the other, promote mammography screening as an individual choice.
International Market Integration and Competitiveness of Indian Sugar
Authors: Vijayakumar A. N. , Bozward David
Published: February 2021

Globalization and liberalization policies facilitated national and international commodity markets to integrate with each other. This integration facilitated price transmission and market efficiency of commodities at domestic markets, leading traders across the globe to exploit opportunities. India is one of the vibrant and emerging economies in the world absorbing these economic features and integrating its markets with the world. This article, focusing on the Indian sugar market, explores market integration of sugar prices with the US, UK and global average prices and also contributes a policy dimension to enhance the competitiveness of the Indian sugar sector. The article, using Johansen’s co-integration with a vector error correction model (VECM), finds the existence of market integration of Indian sugar prices with international prices. However, the average Indian sugar prices are higher than those in other markets, with the support of government price protection policies. These higher prices motivated to increase sugar production in the country. The lower cane prices of Brazil, Australia and Thailand pose challenges in international markets for Indian sugar. Despite this, the Indian sugar sector has a competitive advantage in becoming a great energy source by focusing on ethanol production, which would lead to reducing its international dependency for oil supplies. In addition, the sector can also contribute to rural socio-economic development through adopting technology to produce other by-products rather than merely concentrating on sugar.
Examining the Interconnections Between Sustainable Logistics Practices, Environmental Reputation and Financial Performance: A Mediation Approach
Authors: Baah Charles , Amponsah Kate T. , Issau Kassimu , Ofori Daniel , Acquah Innocent Senyo Kwasi , Agyeman Douglas Opoku
Published: February 2021

As environmental awareness and the patronage of logistics services grow, there is a growing demand for the logistics sector to provide more sustainable environmental services, and although the logistics sector performs functions such as reverse logistics, packaging, inventory management, transportation, warehousing, waste management, distribution, etc., which are very core to economic growth, they also significantly contribute to greenhouse effect and consume huge amounts of resources. This study, drawing on the institutional theory and the natural resource-based view, explores the framework through which sustainable logistics practices such as sustainable transportation, reverse logistics and management of waste, sustainable packaging and distribution, green monitoring and evaluation, and sustainable information sharing influence environmental reputation and financial performance. The study adopted partial least square structural equation modelling technique in analysing data due to it having more statistical power. The findings of the study showed that sustainable logistics practices had enormous influence on environmental reputation and financial performance. In terms of mediation, environmental reputation had no mediation effect between waste management and financial performance but partially mediated the relationships between sustainable transportation, sustainable information sharing and financial performance, while fully mediating the relationships between reverse logistics, sustainable packaging and distribution, green monitoring and evaluation, and financial performance. This study concentrated on the logistics sector; thus, this study results will provide vital data to both scholars and practitioners in comprehending the call and need to integrate sustainable policies and strategies into business and industrial operations to ensure environmental preservation.
Blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a diagnostic marker in dogs with chronic enteropathy
Authors: Becher Anja , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M. , Heilmann Romy M.
Published: February 2021

Few routinely available biomarkers are clinically useful in assessing dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE) and aid in CE subclassification. The diagnostic potential of the blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has not been evaluated in canine CE. We evaluated the NLR in 93 dogs with CE (no steroid treatment for ≥2 wk prior) and tested for an association with clinical, clinicopathologic, and histologic characteristics and also with CE subclassification. NLR was significantly higher in CE dogs with severe clinical disease than dogs with mild clinical disease ( p = 0.047). Hypoalbuminemia ( p < 0.001), but not hypocobalaminemia, was associated with higher NLRs. NLR was correlated with fecal alpha1-proteinase inhibitor concentrations (ρ = 0.47) and the serum-to-fecal alpha1-proteinase inhibitor ratio (ρ = –0.48; both p < 0.001) but not with serum or fecal inflammatory markers nor with the overall histologic score (all p > 0.05). Dogs with steroid- or other immunosuppressant-responsive (IRE) or nonresponsive enteropathy (NRE) had significantly higher NLRs (median: 7.3) than dogs with food-responsive enteropathy (FRE; median: 3.0; p = 0.003), and a NLR ≥5.5 best distinguished both groups of dogs. No difference in NLR was detected between dogs with IRE and dogs diagnosed with NRE. These findings suggest that leukogram changes (i.e., NLR) could be clinically useful in canine CE, and that neutrophils might play a role in the systemic inflammatory response associated with canine CE. The NLR can be easily assessed on routine hematology and can potentially aid in the subclassification of dogs with CE based on the response to treatment.
COVID-19 Pandemic Among Immigrant Latinx Farmworker and Non-farmworker Families: A Rural–Urban Comparison of Economic, Educational, Healthcare, and Immigration Concerns
Authors: Quandt Sara A. , LaMonto Natalie J. , Mora Dana C. , Talton Jennifer W. , Laurienti Paul J. , Arcury Thomas A.
Published: February 2021

COVID-19 has revealed social and health inequities in the United States. Structural inequalities have increased the likelihood of immigrants contracting COVID-19, by being essential workers and through poverty that forces this population to continue working. Rural and urban immigrant families may face different concerns. Using a telephone survey in May 2020 of 105 Latinx families in an existing study, quantitative and qualitative data were gathered on work and household economics, childcare and education, healthcare, and community climate. Analyses show that, although rural and urban groups experienced substantial economic effects, impacts were more acute for urban families. Rural workers reported fewer workplace protective measures for COVID-19. For both groups, fear and worry, particularly about finances and children, dominated reports of their situations with numerous reports of experiencing stress and anxiety. The experience of the pandemic is interpreted as an example of contextual vulnerability of a population already experiencing structural violence through social injustice. Policy implications are highlighted.
It’s Not Just a Virus! Lived Experiences of People Diagnosed With COVID-19 Infection in Denmark
Authors: Missel Malene , Bernild Camilla , Christensen Signe Westh , Dagyaran Ilkay , Berg Selina Kikkenborg
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of people infected with the coronavirus in Denmark during the first phase of the pandemic. An explorative qualitative design underpinned by a phenomenological hermeneutical approach was applied. Fifteen individuals with confirmed COVID-19 infection were included and interviewed individually by telephone. Analyses were inspired by Ricoeur’s interpretation theory. The study illuminated how being diagnosed with COVID-19 was experienced not just a virus infecting the participants’ biology; it was also a threat to their existence and bodily perception as well as an interference in ordinary social relationships. Beyond a supportive approach, the participants experienced being a special case where people around them acted with excitement and curiosity. Responsibility for existential and emotional care after COVID-19 has been placed with the individual ill person and within their ordinary social circle. We suggest follow-up and rehabilitation for people during and after COVID-19 to support recovery.
Palatoplasty for the Patient With Campomelic Dysplasia—Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Narimatsu Kaya , Iida Akihiko , Kobayashi Takanori
Published: February 2021

Campomelic dysplasia (CMPD) is a skeletal disorder resulting from SOX9 gene mutations. Palatoplasty is rare due to a high lethality rate in infants from respiratory distress. Our patient had characteristic symptoms of CMPD, including short bowed limbs, macrocephaly, low-set ears, short palpebral fissures, hypertelorism, a flat nasal bridge, a long philtrum, micrognathia, and a cleft palate. We performed a Furlow palatoplasty when the patient was 2 years 9 months of age, after respiratory conditions had stabilized. We reviewed the literature of CMPD cases that underwent palatoplasty and discussed the optimal timing and surgical methods.
Demonstrating the Reliability of the Self-Appraisal Questionnaire for Use With South African Offenders
Authors: Prinsloo Johan
Published: February 2021

The objective of this research was to examine the reliability and effectiveness of the Self-Appraisal Questionnaire (SAQ) for use with South African offenders. A total of 986 male offenders, with a mean age of 30.6 years ( SD = 9.83) and who were incarcerated in different correctional centers in South Africa, participated in the study. Approximately 75% of the participants were convicted of violent crimes. The Cronbach’s α reliability coefficient for the total SAQ was .92 and subscale coefficients varied between .32, which are consistent with previous international results. Most of the inter-subscale correlations are statistically significant and of moderate strength ( r = .4–.7) or small relationships ( r = .2–.4). With a single exception, all the items-subscale correlations were above .30 and consistent with the results of prior research conducted in Australia, Canada, England, Singapore, and the United States of America.
A Meta-Analysis of the Relationship Between Chief Executive Officer Tenure and Firm Financial Performance: The Moderating Effects of Chief Executive Officer Pay and Board Monitoring
Authors: Cao Xian , Im Junyon , Syed Imran
Published: February 2021

Prior empirical research investigating the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) tenure and firms’ financial performance has shown inconclusive results. Based on arguments of agency and behavioral agency theories, we suggest that this relationship is nuanced and may vary depending on CEO pay and board monitoring. In response to these arguments, we meta-analytically test 385 studies ( n = 1,029,602). We find that CEO tenure is positively related to firms’ financial performance. This positive relationship is enhanced when CEOs receive higher cash compensation or hold more stock ownership. On the other hand, the above positive relationship becomes weaker when CEOs receive higher long-term incentives or when the firm has more independent board directors. These findings suggest that CEO pay and board monitoring, or agency mechanisms in general, can offer new research avenues to help explore boundary conditions of the CEO tenure and firms’ financial performance relationship.
Enhancing knowledge management in the PSS detailed design: a case study in a food and bakery machinery company
Authors: Sassanelli Claudio , Da Costa Fernandes Sânia , Rozenfeld Henrique , Mascarenhas Janaina , Terzi Sergio
Published: February 2021

Most methodologies developed to support the Product-Service System (PSS) design consider the integration of service features into the product design from a high-level of abstraction and are usually focused on the conceptual phase, neglecting the detailed level of design. Besides, the Knowledge Management perspective is not considered in those methodologies, also affecting how new design knowledge is created, formalized, and shared across the company’s organization. The PSS Design GuRu Methodology, grounded on Concurrent Engineering and Design for X approaches, was developed to fill these issues. This study presents how the PSS Design GuRu Methodology can be incorporated into a PSS detailed design process in a B2B company operating in the food and bakery machinery sector, focusing the analysis on its contribution to promoting Knowledge Management. In particular, a detailed case of development and integration of a service feature—the installation service—to a product in the PSS scope is conducted. The PSS Design GuRu Methodology proves to be effective in supporting the generation, management, use, sharing, and reuse of new knowledge in the shape of design guidelines and rules.
Long-term Functional Results of Total Ankle Arthroplasty in Stiff Ankles
Authors: Brodsky James W. , Jaffe David , Pao Andrew , Vier David , Taniguchi Akira , Daoud Yahya , Coleman Scott , Scott Daniel J.
Published: February 2021

Background:

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is advocated over ankle arthrodesis to preserve ankle motion (ROM). Clinical and gait analysis studies have shown significant improvement after TAA. The role and outcomes of TAA in stiff ankles, which have little motion to be preserved, has been the subject of limited investigation. This investigation evaluated the mid- to long-term functional outcomes of TAA in stiff ankles.

Methods:

A retrospective study of prospectively collected functional gait data in 33 TAA patients at a mean of 7.6 (5-13) years postoperatively used 1-way analysis of variance and multivariate regression analysis to compare among preoperative and postoperative demographic data (age, gender, body mass index, years postsurgery, and diagnosis) and gait parameters according to quartiles of preoperative sagittal ROM.

Results:

The stiffest ankles had a mean ROM of 7.8 degrees, compared to 14.3 degrees for the middle 2 quartiles, and 21.0 degrees for the most flexible ankles. Patients in the lowest quartile (Q1) also had statistically significantly lower step length, speed, max plantarflexion, and power preoperatively. Postoperatively, they increased step length, speed, max plantarflexion, and ankle power to levels comparable to patients with more flexible ankles preoperatively (Q2, Q3, and Q4). They had the greatest absolute and relative increases in these parameters of any group, but the final total ROM was still statistically significantly the lowest.

Conclusion:

Preoperative ROM was predictive of overall postoperative gait function at an average of 7.6 (range 5-13) years. Although greater preoperative sagittal ROM predicted greater postoperative ROM, the stiffest ankles showed the greatest percentage increase in ROM. Patients with the stiffest ankles had the greatest absolute and relative improvements in objective function after TAA, as measured by multiple gait parameters. At intermediate- to long-term follow-up, patients with stiff ankles maintained significant functional improvements after TAA.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative study.