bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coproducing Sea Ice Predictions with Stakeholders Using Simulation
Authors: Blair Berill , Müller Malte , Palerme Cyril , Blair Rayne , Crookall David , Knol-Kauffman Maaike , Lamers Machiel
Published: December 2021

Forecasts of sea ice evolution in the Arctic region for several months ahead can be of considerable socioeconomic value for a diverse range of marine sectors and for local community supply logistics. However, subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) forecasts represent a significant technical challenge, and translating user needs into scientifically manageable procedures and robust user confidence requires collaboration among a range of stakeholders. We developed and tested a novel, transdisciplinary coproduction approach that combined socioeconomic scenarios and participatory, research-driven simulation gaming to test a new S2S sea ice forecast system with experienced mariners in the cruise tourism sector. Our custom-developed computerized simulation game known as “ICEWISE” integrated sea ice parameters, forecast technology, and human factors as a participatory environment for stakeholder engagement. We explored the value of applications-relevant S2S sea ice prediction and linked uncertainty information. Results suggest that the usefulness of S2S services is currently most evident in schedule-dependent sectors but is expected to increase as a result of anticipated changes in the physical environment and continued growth in Arctic operations. Reliable communication of uncertainty information in sea ice forecasts must be demonstrated and trialed before users gain confidence in emerging services and technologies. Mariners’ own intuition, experience, and familiarity with forecast service provider reputation impact the extent to which sea ice information may reduce uncertainties and risks for Arctic mariners. Our insights into the performance of the combined foresight/simulation coproduction model in brokering knowledge across a range of domains demonstrates promise. We conclude with an overview of the potential contributions from S2S sea ice predictions and from experiential coproduction models to the development of decision-driven and science-informed climate services.
Post-Mastectomy Patients in an Urban Safety-Net Hospital: How Do Safety-Net Hospital Breast Reconstruction Rates Compare to National Breast Reconstruction Rates?
Authors: Llaneras Jason , Klapp Jamie M. , Boyd J. Brian , Granzow Joaquin , Moazzez Ashkan , Ozao-Choy Junko J. , Dauphine Christine , Goldberg Mytien T.
Published: December 2021

Background

Breast reconstruction (BR) has documented psychological benefits following mastectomy. Yet, racial/ethnic minority groups have lower reported rates of BR. We sought to evaluate the rate, type, and outcome of BR in a racially and ethnically diverse population within a safety-net hospital system.

Methods

All patients who underwent mastectomy between October 2015 and July 2019 at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center were retrospectively examined. Rates and type of BR were analyzed according to patient characteristics (race/ethnicity, age, and body mass index), smoking status, cancer stage, and presence of diabetes mellitus. Breast reconstruction outcomes were also assessed.

Results

Of the 259 patients that underwent mastectomy, 87 (33.6%) received BR. Immediate BR was performed in 79 (30.5%) patients and delayed BR in 8 (3.1%). Of the 79 patients with immediate BR, 58 (73.4%) received implant-based BR and 21 (26.5%) autologous tissue. The BR failure rate was 10%, all implant-based. Increasing age and smoking negatively impacted BR rates. Black ( P =.331) and Hispanic ( P =.132) ethnicity were not independent predictors of decreased breast reconstruction.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the rate, type, and quality of BR in this integrated safety-net hospital within a diverse population are comparable to national rates. When made available, historically underrepresented minority patients of Black and Hispanic ethnicity utilize BR.
Dual Enrollment, Performance-Based Funding, and the Completion Agenda: An Analysis of Post-Secondary Credential Outcomes of Dual Enrollment Students by Credential Type
Authors: Ison Matthew P.
Published: December 2021

Objective: Dual enrollment has become a significant portion of community college enrollment throughout the country. Some scholars have argued that dual enrollment implementation can be used as a viable policy lever to achieve the certificate and associate degree obtainment outcomes identified in Reclaiming the American Dream, a large-scale policy framework driving the community college completion agenda. However, research on dual enrollment participation and credential completion is just starting to emerge with little focus on associate degree and certificate obtainment. To fill this gap, this study investigates the relationship between dual enrollment and credential completion, paying close attention to associate degree and short-term certificate obtainment. Methods: A quantitative analysis was conducted with data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to ascertain the relationship between taking college classes in high school and post-secondary credential obtainment. Disaggregated completion percentages were collected both 3 and 5 years after students began at a post-secondary institution, and binary logistic regression models were constructed to calculate the odds of post-secondary credential obtainment when taking dual enrollment courses. Results: Overall, dual enrollment students have increased odds of completing any post-secondary credential compared to non-dual enrollment students. When disaggregated by credential type, dual enrollment students have diminished odds of completing an associate degree or certificate, compared to increased odds of completing a bachelor’s degree. Contributions: This study adds to the growing literature surrounding dual enrollment and post-secondary credential obtainment by demonstrating that dual enrollment is not a viable policy lever to achieve the credential obtainment goals of the completion agenda.
Designing Efficient Stratified Mean-Per-Unit Sampling Applications in Accounting and Auditing
Authors: Hall Thomas W. , Hoogduin Lucas A. , Pierce Bethane Jo , Tsay Jeffrey J.
Published: December 2021

Despite technological advances in accounting systems and audit techniques, sampling remains a commonly used audit tool. For critical estimation applications involving low error rate populations, stratified mean-per-unit sampling (SMPU) has the unique advantage of producing trustworthy confidence intervals. However, SMPU is less efficient than other classical sampling techniques because it requires a larger sample size to achieve comparable precision. To address this weakness, we investigated how SMPU efficiency can be improved via three key design choices: (a) stratum boundary selection method, (b) number of sampling strata, and (c) minimum stratum sample size. Our tests disclosed that SMPU efficiency varies significantly with stratum boundary selection method. An iterative search-based method yielded the best efficiency, followed by the Dalenius–Hodges and Equal-Value-Per-Stratum methods. We also found that variations in Dalenius–Hodges implementation procedures yielded meaningful differences in efficiency. Regardless of boundary selection method, increasing the number of sampling strata beyond levels recommended in the professional literature yielded significant improvements in SMPU efficiency. Although a minor factor, smaller values of minimum stratum sample size were found to yield better SMPU efficiency. Based on these findings, suggestions for improving SMPU efficiency are provided. We also present the first known equations for planning the number of sampling strata given various application-specific parameters.
Effect of Insurance Type on Postoperative Tympanostomy Tube Follow‐up
Authors: Patel Terral A. , McCoy Jennifer L. , Belsky Michael A. , Sim Edward S. , Konanur Anisha , Yan Annie , Jabbour Noel , Padia Reema
Published: December 2021

Objective

Bilateral myringotomy with tube insertion (BMT) is a common procedure performed in children. Appropriate follow‐up is necessary to ensure management of postoperative sequalae. The objectives are to investigate (1) the relationship between insurance type and postoperative follow‐up attendance and (2) the effect of follow‐up on need for further care after BMT.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The study included patients <3 years of age undergoing BMT for recurrent acute otitis media at a tertiary care children’s hospital within a single year and followed for 3 years. Patients were excluded if they had received a prior BMT; underwent a concurrent otolaryngologic procedure; or had a syndromic diagnosis, craniofacial abnormality, or any significant cardiac or respiratory comorbidity.

Methods

Number of follow‐up appointments, demographics, socioeconomic status, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

Results

A total of 734 patients were included with mean (SD) age of 1.4 years (0.50). The majority of patients had private insurance (520/734, 70.8%). Patients with public insurance attended fewer postoperative appointments (1.5 vs 1.8, P <. 001) and had a higher incidence of BMT‐related emergency department (ED) visits (10.3% vs 3.8%, P =. 001). There was no significance found when different insurance providers were compared. An adjusted multivariate regression analysis showed that patients with private insurance were more likely to attend postoperative appointments (odds ratio, 3.52 [95% CI, 2.12‐5.82]; P <. 001) and less likely to have a BMT‐related ED visit (odds ratio, 0.42 [95% CI, 0.20‐0.89]; P =. 024).

Conclusion

Insurance type is related to outcomes after the treatment of recurrent acute otitis media with BMT. Future studies that survey individuals will help identify barriers that contribute to patient absence at follow‐ups and need for subsequent ED visits.
Play it, Sam! Psychological and physiological discomfort after music abstinence
Authors: Starcke Katrin , Zimmermann Sina , von Georgi Richard
Published: December 2021

Recent findings suggest that music listening plays an important role in affect and arousal modulation. Individuals use music to enhance their well-being and counteract negative affect in numerous everyday situations. We investigated whether listening to preferred, non-preferred, or no music altered affect, arousal, psychological and physical health, and stress. Thirty police officers participated in the study. After a baseline assessment, participants were divided into three experimental groups: Group 1 listened to their preferred music; Group 2 listened to their non-preferred music; and Group 3 did not listen to any music. The manipulation was maintained over a period of 7 days. At the end of each day, participants filled out questionnaires concerning their current affect, arousal, psychological and physical health, and stress. Results indicate that the no music group showed significant decreases in affect and psychological and physical health, and significant increases in stress levels compared with the other groups. In contrast, no statistical differences were observed between the non-preferred music group and the preferred music group. We conclude that not listening to any music might be followed by discomfort. We recommend music listening in everyday life for supporting health.
Toward a Family Science Perspective on Executive Compensation in Family Firms: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Michiels Anneleen , Botero Isabel C. , Kidwell Roland E.
Published: December 2021

In family firms, the family often plays a central role in the strategic decisions of the business. However, until recently, research has primarily focused on exploring the role that business factors play in firm decision-making, with less attention given to the role of the family system. This article reviews the research on executive compensation in family firms to understand whether and how the family system has been considered within this work. Guided by the application of family science theories, we provide a framework to explain why it is important to incorporate the family system in the future study of executive compensation in family firms. We conclude by discussing a research agenda outlining how elements of the family system can be integrated into future executive compensation research to inspire scholars to think differently about this important research topic.
Type 2 Diabetes Self-Management Variables and Predictors
Authors: Emery Karin A. , Robins Jo , Salyer Jeanne , Thurby-Hay Linda , Djira Gemechis
Published: December 2021

Guided by the Self and Family-Management framework, relationships between diabetes distress, self-efficacy, resilience and outcomes of A1c, quality of life and health status were explored. A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. Seventy eight individuals were enrolled from US clinics. Data were analyzed to test for associations, main effects and interactions and predictors of self-management. Results indicated low diabetes distress ( M = 20.53), high self-efficacy ( M = 7.32), moderate resilience ( M = 80.27), and mean A1c 7.35%/56.88 mmol/mol. Seventy six percent of participants scored above the mental health norm, and 46% scored above the physical health norm. The average weighted quality of life score was −1.74. Diabetes distress was negatively associated with self-efficacy, resilience, physical health, mental health, and quality of life. Self-efficacy was positively associated with resilience, physical health, and quality of life. Resilience was positively associated with physical health, mental health and quality of life. Positive associations were found between quality of life, and physical and mental health. No associations were found between A1c and variables in the study. Multiple significant interactions were found with A1c, mental health and quality of life outcomes. Terms in the model included treatment regimen, years since diagnosis, provider collaboration, and history of diabetes self-management education. Distress was a significant predictor of health status and quality of life. The results confirm self-management facilitators self-efficacy and resilience and barrier diabetes distress and their relationships with outcomes in the framework. This study contributes to the understanding of the emotional aspect of diabetes. Continuing this work will allow researchers to better understand self-management, support self-management efforts and better outcomes.
Analysis on fracture behaviour of stitched foam sandwich composites using interlaminar tension test
Authors: Sun Shiyong , Wang Xinling , Liang Jianping , Yang Rui , Zhao Yanguang
Published: December 2021

Sandwich composites are susceptible to interfacial delamination, owing to the mismatches in the material properties between the face sheets and core. Previous studies have shown that stitching can improve the performance of sandwich composites. In this study, an analysis approach was developed to investigate the fracture behaviour of stitched foam sandwich composites. The stitched foam sandwich composites were manufactured by a vacuum-assisted resin transfer moulding process. Interlaminar tension tests revealed the effects of the linear thread density on the failure mechanisms of the stitched foam sandwich composites. Asymmetric double cantilever beam tests were performed to investigate the influences of the stitch thread reinforcement on the fracture behaviour. An analytical approach combining extended finite element method and nonlinear spring elements was proposed to predict the failure behaviour of the stitched sandwich composites. Experiment and simulation approaches were employed to investigate the influences of the stitch parameters (stitch pitch and linear thread density) on the ultimate load and energy absorption. The results show that stitched method can significantly enhance the mechanical properties of sandwich composites. The energy absorption and ultimate load values of the specimens tend to increase with an increase in the linear thread density or a decrease in the stitch pitch.
Positive impact of a telemedicine education program on practicing health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada: A mixed methods study of an Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) program
Authors: Zhao Q. Jane , Rozenberg Dmitry , Nourouzpour Sahar , Orchanian-Cheff Ani , Flannery John , Kaul Rupert , Agbeyaka Senyo , Barber Mary , dePeiza Patrice , Maria Doumouras Anna , Draper Haley , Gebara Nadine , Lau Jenny , Liberman Dan , Luther Ryan A , Sanh Monica , Furlan Andrea D
Published: December 2021

Introduction

In addition to shifting and expanding clinical responsibilities, rapidly evolving information and guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for health care workers (HCW) to synthesise and translate COVID-19 information into practice. This study evaluated whether a COVID-19-specific telemedicine education program (ECHO COVID) would impact health care workers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction in the management of patients with COVID-19.

Methods

A prospective mixed methods parallel-design study was conducted among ECHO COVID participants using pre-post questionnaires and a focus group discussion. Questionnaire results were examined for changes in health care workers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction. Focus group discussion data were analysed to explore health care workers’ experience in ECHO COVID and the context of their practice during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

239 health care workers registered in ECHO COVID and 114 (47.7%) completed questionnaires and attended at least one ECHO COVID session. Median self-efficacy scores increased from 5 (IQR 4–6) to 6 (IQR 6–6) ( p < 0.0001), independent of profession, years in practice, age group, or practice environment. Participants were highly satisfied with ECHO COVID sessions with a median score of 4 (IQR 4–5). Focus group discussion data indicated that health care workers gained knowledge through ECHO COVID and revealed facilitators for ECHO COVID program success, including the transition to virtual care, the practicability of knowledge provided, and a ‘perspective from the trenches.’

Discussion

This study demonstrated that a telemedicine education program aimed to support health care workers in managing patients with COVID-19 had a positive impact on health care workers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction. This impact was specifically mediated by the ECHO COVID program.
Access, utilization, and awareness for clinical genetic testing in autism spectrum disorder in Sweden: A survey study
Authors: Hellquist Anna , Tammimies Kristiina
Published: December 2021

Clinical genetic testing is recommended for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. There are only a few reports of how these recommendations are followed and especially missing for European countries. We aimed to analyze the rate of access, utilization, and awareness of clinical genetic testing among autistic individuals in Sweden through online surveys targeting parents with at least one autistic child and autistic adolescents (from 15 years) and adults. In total, 868 parents of autistic children and 213 autistic adolescents or adults completed the survey. Only 9.1% ( n = 79) of parents and 2.8% ( n = 6) of autistic adolescents/adults reported having received a referral for clinical genetic testing after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. The autistic children offered a referral were younger at diagnosis ( p < 0.001) and more likely to have an additional neurodevelopmental diagnosis ( p < 0.01), including intellectual disability ( p < 0.001) or a language disorder ( p < 0.001). Genetic counseling was provided to less than half of the families that were referred for clinical genetic testing. Finally, we report that both respondent groups preferred to be informed by written text and an expert in genetics about clinical genetic testing. This study highlights a lack of awareness and access to clinical genetic testing after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis in Sweden and demonstrates the need for additional studies on how clinical guidelines for genetic testing are followed in different countries.

Lay abstract

Several medical professional societies recommend clinical genetic testing for autistic individuals as many genetic conditions are linked to autism. However, it is unclear to what extent autistic individuals and parents of autistic children are offered clinical genetic testing. We conducted a community-based survey to estimate the access, utilization, and awareness for clinical genetic testing in Sweden. In total, 868 parents of autistic children and 213 autistic adolescents or adults participated as respondents. The referral rate for clinical genetic testing after autism spectrum disorder diagnosis was low, with only 9.1% for the autistic children as reported by their parents and 2.8% for autistic adolescents/adults. The autistic children who got referrals were more likely to have intellectual disability and language disorder. We also report that awareness of the clinical genetic testing possibility was low in both respondent groups. We also highlight preferred communication means and needs for information before clinical genetic testing. Our results show that utilization and access are low in Sweden, and more studies should be conducted to report these rates in different countries to analyze the effects of clinical genetic testing on healthcare for autistic individuals. Our results highlight the most important information for the families and how the information should be communicated prior to clinical genetic testing.
Friends tell it like it is: Therapy culture, postfeminism and friendships between women
Authors: Martinussen Maree , Wetherell Margaret
Published: December 2021

Feminist cultural studies researchers have produced a rich body of work showing how postfeminism and therapy cultures pervade a range of media. However, receiving less attention are questions of exactly how the neoliberal technologies of self implicated in these two cultural persuasions ‘land’, and are practised in everyday life. In this article, we forward an identity practice approach to understand the interrelated cultures of therapy and postfeminism using data from a qualitative investigation of women’s friendships in Aotearoa New Zealand. We are interested in how the cultural resources concerning postfeminism and the ‘psy complex’ are used flexibly within friendship interactions in concert with other identities, such as national identities and caring identities. Overall, aligning with previous feminist analyses of media artefacts, we find that as postfeminist and therapeutic subjectivity-making entwine with the moral orders of women’s friendships, women carry out their self-surveillance and self-transformation work collaboratively. Yet, remaining attentive to how women tailor cultural resources in their creative identity work leads us to a more hopeful reading. We suggest that the confidence gained by women through their therapised friendships should also be acknowledged for its nourishing qualities.
Intensive care nurses’ experiences of Covid-19 care: A practical and ethical challenge – a qualitative descriptive design
Authors: Stenlund Anna-Lena , Strandberg Gunilla
Published: December 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic has generated new experiences of intensive care. It has entailed new working methods, treatment strategies, and ethical dilemmas. The aim of this study was to describe intensive care nurses’ experiences of Covid-19 care and its ethical challenges. Data collection consisted of 11 individual semi-structured interviews and a qualitative content analysis was used. The COREQ checklist was followed. Three main themes emerged: to meet Covid-19 patients’ needs for specifically tailored intensive care; to have a changed approach to the excluded relatives is unethical, but defensible; and to strive to protect ethical values needs to be considered as good enough. In conclusion, ICU nurses shouldered a heavy burden in taking responsibility for the safety of these patients, continuously learning about new treatment strategies. Caring for Covid-19 patients was to strive to make the best of the situation.
Transcriptomics provides a robust framework for the relationships of the major clades of cladobranch sea slugs (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Heterobranchia), but fails to resolve the position of the enigmatic genus Embletonia
Authors: Karmeinski Dario , Meusemann Karen , Goodheart Jessica A. , Schroedl Michael , Martynov Alexander , Korshunova Tatiana , Wägele Heike , Donath Alexander
Published: December 2021

Background

The soft-bodied cladobranch sea slugs represent roughly half of the biodiversity of marine nudibranch molluscs on the planet. Despite their global distribution from shallow waters to the deep sea, from tropical into polar seas, and their important role in marine ecosystems and for humans (as targets for drug discovery), the evolutionary history of cladobranch sea slugs is not yet fully understood.

Results

To enlarge the current knowledge on the phylogenetic relationships, we generated new transcriptome data for 19 species of cladobranch sea slugs and two additional outgroup taxa (Berthella plumula and Polycera quadrilineata). We complemented our taxon sampling with previously published transcriptome data, resulting in a final data set covering 56 species from all but one accepted cladobranch superfamilies. We assembled all transcriptomes using six different assemblers, selecting those assemblies that provided the largest amount of potentially phylogenetically informative sites. Quality-driven compilation of data sets resulted in four different supermatrices: two with full coverage of genes per species (446 and 335 single-copy protein-coding genes, respectively) and two with a less stringent coverage (667 genes with 98.9% partition coverage and 1767 genes with 86% partition coverage, respectively). We used these supermatrices to infer statistically robust maximum-likelihood trees. All analyses, irrespective of the data set, indicate maximal statistical support for all major splits and phylogenetic relationships at the family level. Besides the questionable position of Noumeaella rubrofasciata, rendering the Facelinidae as polyphyletic, the only notable discordance between the inferred trees is the position of Embletonia pulchra. Extensive testing using Four-cluster Likelihood Mapping, Approximately Unbiased tests, and Quartet Scores revealed that its position is not due to any informative phylogenetic signal, but caused by confounding signal.

Conclusions

Our data matrices and the inferred trees can serve as a solid foundation for future work on the taxonomy and evolutionary history of Cladobranchia. The placement of E. pulchra, however, proves challenging, even with large data sets and various optimization strategies. Moreover, quartet mapping results show that confounding signal present in the data is sufficient to explain the inferred position of E. pulchra, again leaving its phylogenetic position as an enigma.
Clinical values of resting electrocardiography in patients with known or suspected chronic coronary artery disease: a stress perfusion cardiac MRI study
Authors: Kaolawanich Yodying , Thongsongsang Rawiwan , Songsangjinda Thammarak , Boonyasirinant Thananya
Published: December 2021

Background

Electrocardiography (ECG) is an essential investigation in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD). However, evidence regarding the diagnostic and prognostic value of ECG in this population is limited. Therefore, we sought to determine whether baseline ECG abnormalities were associated with myocardial ischemia and cardiac events in patients with known or suspected chronic CAD.

Methods

Consecutive patients with known (n = 146) or suspected chronic CAD (n = 349) referred for adenosine stress cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) between 2011 and 2014 were enrolled. Resting ECGs were classified as major, minor, and no abnormalities. Predictors of myocardial ischemia on CMR and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, hospitalization for heart failure and late revascularization (> 180 days after CMR) were evaluated.

Results

Average age was 69 ± 11 years (51% men). One hundred and eighty-five patients (37.4%) had major and 154 (31.1%) had minor ECG abnormalities. In patients with suspected CAD, myocardial ischemia was presented in 83 patients (23.8%). Multivariable analysis demonstrated major ECG abnormality as the strongest predictor of myocardial ischemia (HR 2.51; 95% CI 1.44–4.36; p = 0.001). Adding ECG to clinical pretest probability models improved the prediction of myocardial ischemia in ROC analyses (p = 0.04). In the whole cohort (n = 495), 91 MACE occurred during the median follow-up period of 4.8 years. Multivariable analysis showed that diabetes mellites, history of heart failure, prior revascularization, left ventricular ejection fraction, ischemia, and major ECG abnormality were independent predictors of MACE.

Conclusion

Abnormal resting ECG is common in patients with known or suspected chronic CAD. ECG had important diagnostic and prognostic values in this population.
Effectiveness of negative pressure wound therapy for the wound of ileostomy closure: a multicenter, phase II randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kojima Koichiro , Goto Mayu , Nagashima Yasuo , Saito Yoko , Kawai Masaya , Takebe Shihori , Egawa Akiko , Tanba Mitsuko , Ishikawa Kazue , Matsuoka Hiroyoshi , Masaki Tadahiko , Sunami Eiji , Ohura Norihiko , Teruya Koji , Eto Ken , Nozawa Keijiro , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Funahashi Kimihiko
Published: December 2021

Background

The American Society of Surgery and American Society for Surgical Infections issued guidelines for surgical site infections (SSIs) in December 2016. These guidelines recommend a purse-string suture (PSS) for stoma closure as it facilitates granulation and enables open wound drainage. This study investigated the effect of using negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) along with standard PSS and aimed to determine the optimal period of NPWT use.

Methods

The patients were divided into three groups as follows: Group A, postoperative wound management alone with gauze exchange as the representative of conventional PSS; Group B, the performed management was similar to that of Group A plus NPWT for 1 week; and Group C, the performed management was similar to that of Group A plus NPWT for 2 weeks. Regarding objective measures, the wound reduction rate was the primary outcome, and the incidence of SSIs, length of hospital stay, and wound healing duration were the secondary outcomes.

Results

In total, 30 patients (male: 18, female: 12) were enrolled. The average age was 63 (range: 43–84) years. The wound reduction rate was significantly higher in Group B than in Group A on postoperative days (PODs) 7 (66.1 vs. 48.4%, p = 0.049) and 10 (78.6 vs. 58.2%, p = 0.011), whereas no significant difference was observed on POD 14. Compared with Group A, Group C (POD 7: 65.9%, POD 10: 69.2%) showed an increase in the wound reduction rate on POD 7, although the difference was not significant (p = 0.075). SSIs were observed in Groups B (n = 2) and C (n = 2) (20%) but not in Group A (0%).

Conclusions

The most effective duration of NPWT use for ileostomy closure with PSS in terms of the maximum wound reduction rate was from PODs 3 to 10. However, NPWT did not shorten the wound healing duration. NPWT may reduce the wound size but should be used with precautions for SSIs. The small sample size (30 cases), the use of only one type of NPWT system, and the fact that wound assessment was subjective and not blinded were the limitations of this study. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Trial registration: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry; UMIN000032174 (10/04/2018).
Female genital mutilation/cutting in sudan and subsequent pelvic floor dysfunction
Authors: Birge Özer , Serin Aliye Nigar , Bakır Mehmet Sait
Published: December 2021

Background

We aimed to evaluate the socio-demographic characteristics of women with female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) and the results of FGM/C due to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Results

The prevalence of FGM/C was 87.2% in Sudan and Type 3 (50.4%) was the most prevalent, followed by Type 2 (35%) and Type 1 (8.5%). In the multinominal logistic regression analysis performed to show the effect of FGM/C on pelvic organ prolapse (POP), it was observed that FGM/C frequency in POP group 2 was statistically similar when POP group 1 was taken as reference category. In the evaluation for symptomatic POP (POP group 3), risk of developing POP in patients without FGM/C was significantly lower than patients with type 3 FGM/C with a rate of 82.9% (OR(odds ratio): 0.171 (p: 0.002), (Confidence Interval (CI) %95; 0.058–0.511). Risk of developing POP rate in patients with type 1 FGM/C was 75% (OR:0.250 (p: 0.005), CI %95; 0.094–0.666) and in patients with type 2 FGM/C was 78.4% (OR:0.216 (p: 0.0001), CI%95; 0.115–0.406). In the multinominal logistic regression analysis including other variables affecting POP, when group 1 was taken as the reference category, it was found that the possibility of developing mild POP (group 2) decreased in FGM/C type 1 and 2 compared to FGM/C type 3 but it was not statistically significant. However, the evaluation for the symptomatic POP group showed up a significantly lower risk of developing POP in patients with type 2 FGM/C compared to patients with type 3 FGM/C, with a rate of 58.4%. (OR:0.419 (p: 0.016), CI%95; 0.206–0.851) (Table 3). In addition, older age was found to be significant risk factor for increasing symptomatic POP (p: 0.003).

Conclusions

Type 2 and 3 FGM/C continues to be an important health problem in terms of complications that may develop in advanced ages as well as many short-term complications as a result of mechanical or physiological deterioration of the female genital anatomy.
Quantitative evaluation of ankle cartilage in asymptomatic adolescent football players after season by T2-mapping magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Luo Sipin , Cao Yi , Hu Peng , Wang Nan , Wan Yeda
Published: December 2021

Background

Ankle sprain affects the structure and function of ankle cartilage. However, it is not clear whether the daily training and competition affect the ankle cartilage without acute injury. Changes in ankle cartilage without injury may influence future strategies to protect ankle function in athletes. This study aimed to evaluate whether the composition of ankle cartilage significantly altered in asymptomatic adolescent football players after a whole season of training and competition using T2-mapping magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and methods

12 local club’s U17 asymptomatic adolescent football players without abnormalities in routine MRI were included. Routine and T2-mapping MRI were performed to measure the cartilage thickness of tibiotalar joint (TT) and posterior subtalar joint (pST) and T2 values in pre- and post-seasons. All of them took the right side as dominant foot.

Results

In the pre- and post-seasons, cartilage T2 values in TT (talus side) and pST (calcaneus side) were higher than that of TT (tibial side) and pST (talus side) (all p < 0.05), which was caused by magic angle effect and gravity load. No statistically significant differences in thickness after season in the other cartilages of ankle were found compared with that before the season (all p > 0.05). However, T2 values of TT (tibial side and talus side) cartilage in the dominant foot were significantly reduced after season (p = 0.008; p = 0.034). These results indicate that the microstructure of articular cartilage changes in the joints with greater mobility, although no trauma occurred and the gross morphology of cartilage did not change.

Conclusion

Changes in the T2 values of tibiotalar joint cartilage in the dominant foot of healthy young athletes before and after the season suggest that the microstructure of cartilage had changed during sports even without injury. This finding suggests that the dominant ankle joint should be protected during football to delay degeneration of the articular cartilage.
Retroperitoneal ganglioneuroma with nodal involvement in an adult patient with human immunodeficiency virus: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lebby Elliott , Kwan Daniel , Bui Thanh-Lan , O’Connell Ryan , Seetharaman Mani , Houshyar Roozbeh
Published: December 2021

Background

Ganglioneuromas are a benign tumor originating from neural crest cells. As one of the neuroblastic tumors, ganglioneuromas are most common in children, with a mean age at presentation of 7 years. Ganglioneuromas are typically singular in nature, but rarely can present with lymph node involvement and distant metastasis. We present a rare case of a retroperitoneal ganglioneuroma found in a human immunodeficiency virus positive adult, which was complicated by lymph node involvement. This case is notable not only in regard to the age of the patient, but also because of his human immunodeficiency virus positive status and the extension of tumor to lymph nodes.

Case presentation

A 27-year-old Latino male with history of human immunodeficiency virus presented with a 6-month history of left upper quadrant and epigastric abdominal pain with associated nausea and vomiting. The patient had a computed tomography scan showing a retroperitoneal mass encasing the aorta, celiac axis, and superior mesenteric artery. Core needle biopsy revealed ganglioneuroma. Owing to obstructive symptoms, resection of the mass along with partial gastric resection, partial pancreatic resection, and splenectomy was performed by a multidisciplinary group of surgeons. Pathology results revealed metastatic spread of ganglioneuroma to surrounding lymph nodes.

Conclusions

Ganglioneuromas are most common in children and very rarely occur in adults. However, it is still important to consider this entity in the differential for patients presenting with suspicious symptoms. While rare, it is essential to consider metastasis in this generally benign disease.
Personality trait by intelligence interaction effects on grades tend to be synergistic
Authors: Sorjonen Kimmo , Wallin Alma Sörberg , Falkstedt Daniel , Melin Bo
Published: December 2021

Background

Earlier research has identified both synergistic and compensatory personality traits by intelligence interaction effects on academic performance.

Methods

The present study employed data on intelligence, personality traits, and academic performance in the 1997 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY97, N = 8984).

Results

Some intelligence by personality trait interaction effects, mainly involving indicators of dependability, on high school grades were identified. The interaction effects tended to be synergistic, meaning that the association between the trait and grades tended to strengthen with increased intelligence. A positive association between intelligence and the reliability in the measurement of a dependability composite score accounted for a substantial portion of the synergistic dependability by intelligence interaction effect on academic performance.

Conclusions

Personality trait by intelligence interaction effects on academic performance tend to be synergistic and may, at least to some degree, be due to a positive association between intelligence and reliability in the measurement of personality traits.
Preparation of O/W nano-emulsion containing nettle and fenugreek extract and cumin essential oil for evaluating antidiabetic properties
Authors: Javadi Sara , Kazemi Negar Motakef , Halabian Raheleh
Published: December 2021

The oil-in-water (O/W) nano-emulsion (NE) is expanded to enhance the bioavailability of hydrophobic compounds. The NE can be prepared by herbal extract and essential oil as herbal medicines for antidiabetic treatment. In the present study, the O/W NE was prepared by fenugreek extract (FE), nettle extract (NE), and cumin essential oil (CEO) using tween 80 and span 80 surfactants in an ultrasonic bath, at room temperature within 18 min. The antidiabetic property was evaluated by determining glucose absorption using cultured rat L6 myoblast cell line (L6) myotubes and insulin secretion using the cultured mouse pancreatic beta-cell (RIN-5) for NEs. The samples were investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS) to examine the size distribution and size, zeta potential for the charge determination, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to investigate morphology and size. The rheological properties were studied by viscosity. The sample stability was evaluated at different temperatures and days by DLS and SEM analyses. The cytotoxicity of samples was explored by MTT assay for HEK293 human cell line as a specific cell line originally derived from human embryonic kidney cells at three different concentrations for three periods of time. The NEs with nanometer-size were observed with antidiabetic properties, low cytotoxicity, and suitable stability. This study provides definitive evidence for the NE as a plant medicine with antidiabetic properties. The NE can be a good candidate for biomedical applications.
Racist Love
Authors: Bow Leslie
Published: December 2021

In Racist Love Leslie Bow traces the ways in which Asian Americans become objects of anxiety and desire. Conceptualizing these feelings as “racist love,” she explores how race is abstracted and then projected onto Asianized objects. Bow shows how anthropomorphic objects and images such as cartoon animals in children’s books, home décor and cute tchotchkes, contemporary visual art, and artificially intelligent robots function as repositories of seemingly positive feelings and attachment to Asianness. At the same time, Bow demonstrates that these Asianized proxies reveal how fetishistic attraction and pleasure serve as a source of anti-Asian bias and violence. By outlining how attraction to popular representations of Asianness cloaks racial resentment and fears of globalization, Bow provides a new means of understanding the ambivalence surrounding Asians in the United States while offering a theory of the psychological, affective, and symbolic dynamics of racist love in contemporary America.
Solvatofluorochromic Contrast with Supramolecular Stereoisomers Using Linked Rotaxane Structures to Investigate Local Solvation in Excited Donor-Bridge-Acceptor Systems
Authors: Shimada Sotaro , Miyagishi Hiromichi V , Masai Hiroshi , Masui Yoichi , Terao Jun
Published: December 2021

To optimize the photophysical properties of donor-bridge-acceptor (D-B-A) systems, the elucidation of the excited state of each component (i.e., D, B, and A) plays a crucial role in controlling the forward and back electron transfer rates. However, the direct evaluation of solvation spheres and their rearrangement on the excited bridge is still challenging. In this work, we report a method that exploits a linked rotaxane structure to uncover the solvation effects on an excited bridge by leveraging solvatofluorochromic contrast. We synthesize a D-insB-A system, in which a diphenylacetylene-based bridging moiety is insulated by a covalently linked permethylated α-cyclodextrin (PM α-CD), as a structural isomer of the uninsulated counterpart (D-uninsB-A). In the D-insB-A system, PM α-CD selectively covers the bridge while the donor and acceptor remain exposed. In this way, a comparison of the fluorescence wavelengths of D-insB-A and D-uninsB-A can reveal the local solvation effects on the excited bridge moiety. The investigation of the fluorescence properties in various solvents highlights a weak solvent interaction with the excited bridge in protic solvents and strong one in chlorinated polar solvents. These results provide crucial insight into the properties of excited D-B-A systems from the perspective of external environments, including solvent interactions.
Development and Co-Validation of a Certified Reference Material (NMIJ CRM 7204-A) for the Analysis of Trace Elements in Seawater Sample
Authors: Zhu Yanbei , Narukawa Tomohiro , Miyashita Shin-ichi , Ariga Tomoko , Kudo Izumi , Koguchi Masae , Nonose Naoko , Baharom Norliza Binti , Lee Kyoung-Seok , Yim Yong-Hyeon , Wang Qian , Chao Jing-Bo
Published: December 2021

A certified reference material (CRM), i.e. NMIJ CRM 7204-a, was characterized for the analysis of 10 regulated trace elements in sample seawater, provided in 500 mL polyethylene bottles. Homogeneity and stability of the elements were investigated by inductively coupled plasma tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry after proper dilution, while mass-shift mode was applied to the measurement of trace elements except for Cd and Pb. A property value was obtained as the weighted mean of the results obtained by different methods with weights based on the reciprocal of the standard uncertainty. Combined uncertainty of a property value was obtained as the root mean square of the standard uncertainties of homogeneity, stability, analysis reproducibility, method-to-method variance, and calibrating standard. In NMIJ CRM 7204-a, the concentration of Cd is approximately 3 µg/kg, while those of other trace elements are around 10 µg/kg. Validity of the certified values was confirmed with analytical results of As and Cd by National Institute of Metrology (NIM, China) and those of Cd and Ni by Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS, Korea). The concentrations of Na, Mg, K, and Ca along with the density values at 15, 20, and 25 Celsius were provided as information values.
CO Oxidation Activity of Au on Spinel Titanate Supports: Improvement of Catalytic Activity via Alkali Cation Substitution from Li4Ti5O12 to Na3LiTi5O12
Authors: Tada Kohei , Kitta Mitsunori , Tanaka Shingo
Published: December 2021

In this study, density functional theory calculations determined that the formation of O vacancies in spinel-type titanium oxide is affected by the alkali metal cation occupying the 8a-site. This result indicates that substitution of the 8a-site cation, such as Li+→Na+, should improve catalytic oxidation activity. Experimental results confirmed that Au supported on sodium titanate (Na3LiTi5O12) showed improved catalytic CO oxidation activity compared to Au supported on lithium titanate (Li4Ti5O12).
Irradiation with UV Light Accelerates the Migita–Kosugi–Stille Coupling Reaction in Air
Authors: Ishikawa Takumi , Murata Mako , Masai Hiroshi , Iwai Tomohiro , Terao Jun
Published: December 2021

The Migita–Kosugi–Stille coupling reaction is a powerful method for the formation of carbon–carbon bonds but often requires high temperatures that are not tolerated by all substrates. Herein, we report that irradiation with UV light accelerates this coupling reaction at room temperature in air in the presence of the commercially available PdCl2(PPh3)2 catalyst. This UV-light-assisted coupling reaction requires the presence of molecular oxygen, with mechanistic studies revealing that singlet oxygen is most likely involved in the reaction.
A/B Contracts
Authors: Georgiadis George , Powell Michael
Published: December 2021

This paper aims to improve the practical applicability of the classic theory of incentive contracts under moral hazard. We establish conditions under which the information provided by an A/B test of incentive contracts is sufficient for answering the question of how best to improve a status quo incentive contract, given a priori knowledge of the agent’s monetary preferences. We assess the empirical relevance of this result using data from DellaVigna and Pope’s (2018) study of a variety of incentive contracts. Finally, we discuss how our framework can be extended to incorporate additional considerations beyond those in the classic theory. (JEL D82, D86, D91)