bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of benign anastomotic strictures following rectal resection: a systematic review
Authors: Clifford Rachael Elizabeth , Fowler Hayley , Manu Nicola , Vimalachandran Dale
Published: August 2021

Aim

Benign anastomotic strictures following colorectal surgical resection are a commonly under‐reported complication in up to 30% of patients, with a significant impact upon quality of life. In this systematic review, we aim to assess the utility of endoscopic techniques in avoiding the need for surgical reintervention.

Method

A literature search was performed for published full text articles using the PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus databases. Additional papers were found by scanning the references of relevant papers.

Results

A total of 34 papers were included, focusing upon balloon dilatation, endoscopic stenting, electroincision, stapler stricturoplasty and cortiocosteroids alone and in combination, with success rates varying from 20% to 100%. The most challenging strictures were reported as those with a narrow lumen, frequently observed following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy or an anastomotic leak. Endoscopic balloon dilatation was the most commonly used first‐line method; however, repeated dilatations were often required and this was associated with an increased risk of perforation. Although initial success rates for stents were good, patients often experienced stent migration and local symptoms. Only a small number of patients experienced endoscopic management failure and progressed to surgical intervention.

Conclusion

Following identification of an anastomotic stricture and exclusion of underlying malignancy, endoscopic management is both safe and feasible as a first‐line option, even if multiple treatment exposures or multimodal management is required. Surgical resection or a defunctioning stoma should be reserved for emergency or failed cases. Further research is required into multimodal and novel therapies to improve quality of life for these patients.
Highs and downs: A scoping review of public opinion about cannabis, alcohol and tobacco in Canada
Authors: Cloutier Adrien , Tremblay‐Antoine Camille , Dufresne Yannick , Fréchet Nadjim
Published: August 2021

Issues: Since the legalisation of cannabis in October 2018, Canada has emerged as a privileged place for research on the properties of this substance, its health effects, but also on its relation with public opinion. However, this scoping review points out the complexity of tracing the evolution of Canadian public opinion on cannabis based on available scientific data. Approach: This review follows the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute and summarises more than 60 years of research on Canadians' public opinion, perception and knowledge of cannabis. The study also includes alcohol and tobacco in order to provide a meaningful comparison between substances. Key Findings: One hundred and sixty‐one references selected from over 30 000 studies, with the oldest dating back to 1956, show that public opinion on cannabis is under‐studied in Canada compared to alcohol and tobacco. Young people and students are among the most studied populations, unlike Aboriginal communities, immigrants and elderly people. The study reveals the absence of experts in public opinion and political communication, and calls for an imperative need for theoretical frameworks rooted in the work of social scientists. Implication: These findings do not suggest slowing the rate of publication on alcohol, tobacco, youth or students. Rather, they encourage increasing the rate of publication on other substances used and on other groups also targeted as being particularly at risk of misuse. Conclusion: New studies need to measure and contribute to the understanding of Canadian public opinion on cannabis in comparison with public policies currently in place.
Recursive adaptation in action: allochronic isolation and divergence of host‐associated populations of the apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella, following its recent introduction to the western USA
Authors: Mattsson Monte , Hood Glen Ray , Yee Wee L. , Doellman Meredith M. , Bruzzese Daniel J. , Goughnour Robert B. , Driscoe Amanda L. , Van Dexter Seth , Tait Cheyenne , Glover Mary M. , Meyers Pete , Ruedas Luis A. , Feder Jeffrey L.
Published: August 2021

An outstanding issue in the study of insect host races concerns the idea of ‘recursive adaptive divergence’, whereby adaptation can occur repeatedly across space and/or time, and the most recent adaptive episode is defined by one or more previously similar cases. The host plant shift of the apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh) (Diptera: Tephritidae, Carpomyini), from ancestral downy hawthorn [Crataegus mollis (Torr. & A. Gray) Scheele] to introduced, domesticated apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) in the eastern USA has long served as a model system for investigating ecologically driven host race formation in phytophagous insect specialists. Here, we report results from an annual geography survey of eclosion time demonstrating a similar ecological pattern among nascent host‐associated populations of the fly recently introduced ca. 40 years ago from its native range in the east into the Pacific Northwest (PNW) region of the USA. Specifically, using data collected from 25 locations across 5 years, we show that apple‐infesting fly populations in the PNW have rapidly and repeatedly shifted (and maintained differences in) their adult eclosion life‐history timing to infest two novel hawthorn hosts with different fruiting phenologies – a native species (Crataegus douglasii Lindl.) and an introduced species (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.) – generating partial allochronic reproductive isolation in the process. The shifts in the PNW parallel the classic case of host race formation in the eastern USA, but have occurred bi‐directionally to two hawthorn species with phenologies slightly earlier (black hawthorn) and significantly later (ornamental hawthorn) than apple. Our results imply that R. pomonella can both possess and retain extensive‐standing variation (i.e., ‘adaptive memory’) in diapause traits, even following introductions, to rapidly and temporally track novel phenological host opportunities when they arise. Thus, ‘specialized’ host races may not constitute evolutionary dead ends. Rather, adaptive phenotypic and genetic memory may carry over from one host shift to the next, recursively facilitating host race formation in phytophagous insects.
Alemtuzumab in multiple sclerosis: A retrospective analysis of occult hemorrhagic magnetic resonance imaging lesions and risk factors
Authors: Bachmann Helen , Cambron Melissa , Casselman Jan W. , Van Driessche Veroniek , Van Haute Eline , Van Hijfte Liesbeth , Kelderman Tim , Hemelsoet Dimitri , Laureys Guy
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

Alemtuzumab, a monoclonal CD52 antibody, is a high‐efficacy disease‐modifying‐therapy in relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Recently, intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) was reported as a possible treatment‐related adverse event. Arterial hypertension during infusion was suggested as a potential cause, although platelet or endothelial dysfunction may also contribute. This study aimed to screen for occult hemorrhagic cerebral lesions after alemtuzumab treatment and to further elucidate risk factors.

Methods

We included 30 RRMS patients who received alemtuzumab treatment at Ghent University Hospital or Sint‐Jan Bruges Hospital. Retrospective data concerning vital signs, adverse effects and thrombocyte levels during treatment were collected. The occurrence of occult intracranial hemorrhagic lesions was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging with susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI).

Results

The mean (standard deviation [SD]) systolic blood pressure (SBP) during the morning, afternoon and evening was 120 (3.38) mmHg during first administration and 114 (4.40) mmHg during second administration (N = 13). There was no significant increase in SBP when comparing morning, afternoon and evening per day, nor was there a significant difference in daily mean SBP between consecutive administration days. Thrombocyte count during treatment cycles ranged between 107 × 109/L and 398 × 109/L, with a mean (SD) absolute reduction of 59.3 × 109/L (50.65) or a mean (SD) relative reduction of 25.0 (12.84)% (N = 20). No patient had ICH, nor did SWI show any cerebral microbleeds or other hemorrhagic lesions post‐treatment (N = 23).

Conclusions

In our patient population, alemtuzumab treatment was not associated with arterial hypertension, ICH or occult microbleeds. Possible differences in administration regimen (ambulatory vs. in‐hospital setting) and patient population (cardiovascular risk) might explain an increased risk in different populations.
Serum neurofilament light chain as a surrogate of cognitive decline in sporadic and familial frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Silva‐Spínola Anuschka , Lima Marisa , Leitão Maria João , Durães João , Tábuas‐Pereira Miguel , Almeida Maria Rosário , Santana Isabel , Baldeiras Inês
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) has recently been proposed as a promising biomarker in frontotemporal dementia (FTD). We investigated the correlation of both cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum NfL with detailed neuropsychological data and cognitive decline in a cohort of sporadic and familial FTD.

Methods

CSF and serum NfL, as well as conventional CSF Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers (Aβ42, t‐Tau, p‐Tau181), were determined in 63 FTD patients (30 sporadic‐FTD, 20 with progranulin (GRN) mutations [FTD‐GRN], 13 with chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 [C9orf72] expansions [C9orf72‐FTD]), 37 AD patients, and 31 neurologic controls. Serum NfL was also quantified in 37 healthy individuals. Correlations between baseline CSF and serum NfL levels, standardized neuropsychological tests, and the rate of cognitive decline in FTD patients were assessed.

Results

CSF and serum NfL presented with significantly higher levels in FTD than in AD patients and both control groups. Within FTD subtypes, genetic cases, and particularly FTD‐GRN, had higher CSF and serum NfL levels. Significant correlations between NfL levels and overall cognitive function, abstract reasoning (CSF and serum), executive functions, memory, and language (serum) were found. A relationship between increased baseline CSF and serum NfL and a decay in cognitive performance over time was also observed.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the potential of serum NfL as a useful surrogate end point of disease severity in upcoming targeted treatments.
Response surface methodology to tune artificial neural network hyper‐parameters
Authors: Bozkurt Keser Sinem , Buruk Sahin Yeliz
Published: August 2021

Artificial neural network is a machine learning algorithm that has been widely used in many application areas. The performance of the algorithm depends on the type of the problem, the size of the problem, and the architecture of the algorithm. One of the most important things that affect ANN's performance is the selection of hyper‐parameters, but there is not a specific rule to determine the hyper‐parameters of the algorithm. Although there is no single well‐known method in hyper‐parameter tuning, this issue has been discussed in many studies. In this study, a central composite design which is a successful response surface methodology technique that considers factor interactions is used for hyper‐parameter optimization. A categorical central composite design that has 39 experimental runs was used to predict accuracy and F‐score. The effect of ANN hyper‐parameters on selected performance indicators is investigated using two different size customer churn prediction data set, which is widely used in the literature. Using the desirability functions, multiple objectives are combined and the best hyper‐parameter levels are selected. As a result of verification tests, the accuracy values are 85.79% and 83.29% for the first and second data set, respectively. And, the F‐score values are 86.15% and 82.33% for the first and second data set, respectively. The results show the effectiveness of the adopted RSM technique.
Free access of published DNA sequences facilitates regular control of (meta‐) data quality – an example from shorebird mitogenomes (Aves, Charadriiformes: Charadrius)
Authors: Päckert Martin
Published: August 2021

Online repositories of DNA sequences are a rich and indispensable source of comparative data for biodiversity research and taxonomic studies. Despite increasingly high data quality of published sequences and associated metadata, particular attention should be paid to taxonomic assignment of DNA sequences, in particular if voucher specimens are not available or cannot be examined. In this study, two nearly identical mitogenomes of two distinctive plover species (Charadrius alexandrinus and Charadrius placidus) were re‐analysed and compared with a comprehensive dataset of DNA‐barcode sequences (cytochrome‐oxidase subunit 1, COI) for 55 shorebird species. Phylogenetic analysis separated the two plover species into two reciprocally monophyletic clades that differed by mean p‐distances of 11.5–14.7%; however, the COI sequence from the C. placidus mitogenome was nested in the Kentish Plover clade (C. alexandrinus). A similar mismatch was found for another DNA‐barcode sequence from a Charadrius mongolus mitogenome that clustered with one of two clades of Charadrius leschenaultii in the COI tree. These results strongly suggest that, to date, two of seven mitogenomes published for Charadriidae are not representative of the taxon names to which the respective GenBank entries were assigned. Only a few DNA‐barcode sequences were associated with outdated taxonomy, while others were suspected to be chimeric sequences. Thus, free access to digital sequence information is a key factor for steady improvement of data quality in online repositories via swarm intelligence of the scientific community.
Counselling and education for prenatal screening and diagnostic tests for pregnant women: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yeşilçinar İlknur , Güvenç Gülten
Published: August 2021

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of education and counselling on prenatal screening and diagnostic tests on pregnant women's decisional conflict, anxiety levels and attitudes towards the tests.

Background

Clinical practice guidelines recommend prenatal genetic counselling for pregnant women before participation in the tests.

Methods

A total of 210 pregnant women participated in the study by completing the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory‐I, Decisional Conflict Scale, SURE Scale, Knowledge Assessment Forms, Decision Satisfaction Form and Attitudes Scale between June 2017 and March 2018. In the first stage, pregnant women were evaluated who had only prenatal genetic screening tests and in the second stage, pregnant women who had been recommended to receive diagnostic tests. The intervention group received face‐to‐face individual education and counselling about prenatal genetic tests. Independent samples t test, t tests and Pearson correlation tests were used.

Results

Education and counselling for prenatal screening tests and diagnostic tests from the first weeks of pregnancy were effective in decreasing anxiety, decisional conflict, increasing attitudes towards tests and had positive effects on pregnant women's knowledge level and decision satisfaction (P < 0.005).

Conclusion

Prenatal genetic counselling and education are more effective if provided from the first weeks of pregnancy. Decreasing anxiety, decisional conflict and increasing knowledge levels of pregnant women are important to make informed decisions.
Motivation to move fast, motivation to wait and see: The association of prevention and promotion focus with clinicians’ implementation of the JNC‐7 hypertension treatment guidelines
Authors: Sanders Mechelle , Fiscella Kevin , Hill Elaine , Ogedegbe Olugbenga , Cassells Andrea , Tobin Jonathan N. , Williams Stephen , Veazie Peter
Published: August 2021

Roughly half of the adults in the United States are diagnosed with hypertension (HTN). Unfortunately, less than one‐third have their condition under control. Clinicians generally have positive regard for the use of HTN guidelines to achieve HTN treatment goals; however, actual uptake remains low. Factors underpinning clinician variation in practice are poorly understood. To understand the relationship between clinicians’ personal motivation to complete goals and their uptake of the Joint National Commission's HTN guidelines. The authors used Regulatory Focus Theory (RFT, ie, prevention and promotion focus), an empirically supported motivational theory, as a guiding framework to examine the relationship. The authors hypothesized that clinicians with high prevention focus would report following guidelines more often and have shorter follow‐up visit intervals for patients with uncontrolled blood pressure. Clinicians (n  = 27) caring for adult patients diagnosed with HTN (n = 8605) in Federally Qualified Health Centers (n = 8). Clinicians’ prevention and promotion focus scores and the number of days between visits for their patients with uncontrolled systolic blood pressure (SBP) (≥ 140 mm Hg). Consistent with RFT, 60% of prevention focused clinicians reported they always followed the monthly visit guideline for the patients with uncontrolled blood pressure, compared with 38% of promotion focused clinicians (p = .254). The unadjusted probability of returning for a follow‐up visit within 30 days was greater among patients whose clinician was higher in prevention focus (p = .009), but there was no evidence at the 0.05 significance level in our adjusted model. These findings provide some limited evidence that RFT is a useful framework to understand clinician adherence to HTN treatment guidelines.
Parental criticism and adolescent internalising symptoms: using a Children‐of‐Twins design with power calculations to account for genetic influence
Authors: Ahmadzadeh Yasmin I. , Eley Thalia C. , Hannigan Laurie , Creswell Cathy , Lichtenstein Paul , Spotts Erica , Ganiban Jody , Neiderhiser Jenae , Rijsdijk Fruhling , McAdams Tom A.
Published: August 2021

Background

Parental criticism is correlated with internalising symptoms in adolescent offspring. This correlation could in part reflect their genetic relatedness, if the same genes influence behaviours in both parents and offspring. We use a Children‐of‐Twins design to assess whether parent‐reported criticism and offspring internalising symptoms remain associated after controlling for shared genes. To aid interpretation of our results and those of previous Children‐of‐Twins studies, we examine statistical power for the detection of genetic effects and explore the direction of possible causal effects between generations.

Methods

Data were drawn from two Swedish twin samples, comprising 876 adult twin pairs with adolescent offspring and 1,030 adolescent twin pairs with parents. Parent reports of criticism towards their offspring were collected concurrently with parent and offspring reports of adolescent internalising symptoms. Children‐of‐Twins structural equation models were used to control for genetic influence on the intergenerational association between parental criticism and adolescent internalising.

Results

Parental criticism was associated with adolescent internalising symptoms after controlling for genetic influence. No significant role was found for shared genes influencing phenotypes in both generations, although power analyses suggested that some genetic effects may have gone undetected. Models could not distinguish directionality for nongenetic, causal effects between generations.

Conclusions

Parental criticism may be involved in psychosocial family processes in the context of adolescent internalising. Future studies should seek to identify these processes and provide clarity on the direction of potential causal effects.
Advance care planning clinic: A structured clinical experience for internal medicine residents
Authors: Coyle Andrew , Bhatia Sonica , Reyes Arnaldy Amy , Wang Katherine , Lindenberger Elizabeth C. , Fishman Mary
Published: August 2021

Background

Advance care planning (ACP) is an important step to provide medical care consistent with patients' preferences and values. Nationally, rates of ACP completion are low, and internal medicine residency clinics face additional barriers. To address this need, we implemented an ACP clinic for internal medicine residents.

Methods

An ACP clinical experience was created for PGY2 residents beginning in 2018, with 6 total sessions, consisting of consolidated didactics, protected time to identify, outreach, and schedule patients, and two half days of dedicated ACP visits. Residents were surveyed before (end of PGY1) and after (end of PGY2) the intervention. The preceding residency class, serving as a historic control, only received the curriculum and were surveyed at the end of their PGY2 year. Electronic medical record (EMR) data was accessed to track ACP documentation.

Results

The overall survey response rate was 124/134 (93%). Comparing the intervention cohort before and after the intervention, there was a significant increase in self‐assessed confidence in completing ACP (2.1/4.0 vs 3.5/4.0, p < 0.01). Comparing the intervention and historic cohorts (end of PGY2), the intervention was associated with improved confidence in ability to complete ACP for their patients (3.5/4.0 vs 2.7/4.0, p < 0.01). The historic control had no increase in ACP documentation rates over time, while the intervention cohort had a 13.9% absolute increase in ACP documentation for their patients over the course of residency (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The creation of an ACP‐specific clinical experience, in conjunction with existing curricula, resulted in significant improvements in knowledge, self‐assessed skills and behavior, and EMR documentation.
Primate veterinarians' knowledge and attitudes regarding pain in macaques
Authors: Miyabe‐Nishiwaki Takako , Gris Vanessa Nadine , Muta Kanako , Nishimura Ryohei , Mills Daniel Simon
Published: August 2021

Background

Assessment of pain in macaques is challenging. The aims of this study were (1) to investigate current knowledge and attitudes of primate veterinarians concerning acute pain in macaques; (2) to synthesise current knowledge and opinion to facilitate pain assessment. A primary question of interest was whether more confident individuals differ in their knowledge and attitudes from less‐confident individuals.

Methods

An online survey was conducted amongst primate veterinarians serving both laboratories and zoos/sanctuaries. The questionnaire consisted of demographic information, attitudes towards pain, pain rating and analgesics, pain recognition and confidence in recognising pain and sources of information used.

Results and Conclusions

There was generally good use of analgesia by respondents. More confident individuals reported that they recognise pain both behaviourally and in facial expressions, rated all pain signs more highly and used more analgesics. Specialist support networks aimed at increasing veterinarian confidence in macaque pain assessment could be beneficial.
Treatment of effluents from marine shrimp culture with biofloc technology: Production of Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis (cyanobacteria) and nutrient removal
Authors: Holanda Mariana , Besold Camila , Sempere Ferran Llario , Abreu Paulo César , Poersch Luis
Published: August 2021

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the growth of Arthrospira platensis in the effluent of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaues vannamei grown in biofloc systems. In the first experiment, A. platensis grew for 12 days in different dilutions (100, 10, 1%) of effluent and in the fertilizer medium in order to determine ideal dilution for the growth of the microalgae in the effluent. At the end of the experiment, the biofloc 100% treatment showed a significantly higher cell density than the fertilizer medium treatment. A second experiment, which lasted for 20 days, was conducted in order to evaluate the growth and bioremediation potential in treatments without total suspended solids, which were removed by decantation, and untreated effluent. The final biomass in the biofloc treatment was 0.50 ± 0.59 g/L and 0.18 ± 0.14 g/L in the biofloc decanted treatment. Both treatments removed 90% of phosphate from the effluent. Nitrate values oscillated throughout the experiment. Thus, it is possible to affirm that the cultivation of A. platensis can be used as a tool to reduce the nitrogen and phosphate loads in the effluent of L. vannamei raised in biofloc systems.
Deception by topic choice: How discussion can mislead without falsehood
Authors: Cross Ben
Published: August 2021

This article explains and defends a novel idea about how people can be misled by a discussion topic, even if the discussion itself does not explicitly involve the making of false claims. The crucial aspect of this idea is that people are liable to infer, from the fact that a particular topic is being discussed, that this topic is important. As a result, they may then be led to accept certain beliefs about the state of the world they consider necessary for the topic’s importance. What the article calls “importance misrepresentation” occurs when these beliefs about the state of the world are false or otherwise mistaken. The article explores different ways in which importance misrepresentation can occur, and it uses this idea to help clarify and strengthen some well‐known criticisms of the topic choices of academic philosophers.
Rapid adjustment in epidermal UV sunscreen: Comparison of optical measurement techniques and response to changing solar UV radiation conditions
Authors: Neugart Susanne , Tobler Mark A. , Barnes Paul W.
Published: August 2021

The accumulation of soluble and cell‐wall bound UV‐absorbing compounds (i.e., flavonoids) in the epidermis and the mesophyll of leaves is a response of plants to UV exposure. These compounds are known to function in UV screening, but they are also of potential value for food quality. One way to non‐destructively monitor UV screening in leaves is by optical methods, from which UVA‐PAM and Dualex instruments stand out. The degree and rapidity to which plants can modulate UV screening in response to fluctuating solar UV conditions is poorly understood. In this study, okra plants were exposed to two solar radiation treatments (near‐ambient UV [+UV] and attenuated UV [−UV]) and the epidermal UV transmittance (TUV; UVA‐PAM) and flavonoid index (Dualex) were measured in the youngest and second youngest mature leaves over three consecutive days and within an individual day. The day‐to‐day (measured near solar noon) and diurnal (over the course of a day) measurements of leaf optical properties indicated that TUV decreased and flavonoid index increased in the adaxial epidermis ~50% until 15:00 CDT then returned close to morning values later in the day. Correlations between UV‐B radiation and TUV and flavonoid index revealed highest values 30 min to 1 h prior to the measurements. These findings indicate that plants can respond quickly to fluctuating solar UV conditions and underlines the importance of the harvest‐time point for health‐promoting compounds in fruit and vegetables. Our findings also indicate that the UVA‐PAM and the Dualex instruments are both suitable instruments to monitor rapid changes in UV screening in plants.
Access to Justice: Dynamic, Foundational, and Generative
Authors: Palombella Gianluigi
Published: August 2021

Access to justice reveals its contours through, and is best understood for, its dynamic nature. Conceptually, it shows a number of peculiar oscillations within couplets of opposites, like rights and structure, autonomous and derivative right, and substance and procedure. What does make for its foundational nature, and how does the latter differ from and coexist with access as a fundamental right? It belongs to the requirements of the rule of law and plays a foundational role towards legality, beyond being counted among the most fundamental rights. Despite its apparent procedural character, it has a substantive value, as well as a peculiar “generative” function. The article enquires into these conceptual features by looking at the ways through which access to justice is provided in the main European and international legal documents, as well as at its progress under judicial interpretation.
European Values: Solidarity*
Authors: Van Parijs Philippe
Published: August 2021

This text will address three questions. Firstly, what roles has the appeal to solidarity been playing in the process of European integration? Secondly, what does solidarity in the normative sense of an obligation really mean? Thirdly, to what extent can we and should we rely on appeals to solidarity as we fight for a better Europe?
Overcoming Judicial Supremacy through Constitutional Amendment: Some Critical Reflections*
Authors: De La Torre Mariano C. Melero
Published: August 2021

This paper critically examines the proposal to overcome the judicial definition of fundamental rights by using constitutional amendment procedures. Authors known as “political constitutionalists” have advocated weak‐form judicial review as an alternative to the constitutional practice currently prevailing in liberal democracies. The proposal under consideration here seeks to achieve this alternative by making constitutional amendment as easy as possible, i.e., through minimal constitutional rigidity. The discussion begins by questioning the idea of adopting institutional design as a suitable criterion for rating a judicial review system as “strong” or “weak.” Then the alleged relevance of constitutional amendment in the specification of constitutional rights is called into question. Lastly, the paper reaches a double conclusion. On the one hand, minimal constitutional rigidity is not an alternative to prevailing constitutional practice, but a more collaborative version of the same practice; on the other hand, minimal constitutional rigidity only represents a genuine alternative design when it is part of a model (“strong popular sovereignty”) aimed at overcoming the current constitutionalist paradigm.
A longitudinal study examining the associations of bullying victimization and suicidal ideation among sexual minority adolescents
Authors: De Luca Susan M. , Caramanis Christina , Zhang Anao
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Roughly one‐third of sexual minority adolescents (SMA) report at least one lifetime suicide attempt. Supportive connections are protective for ideation, yet little is known about this association with SMA—especially longitudinally.

Methods

Five‐step logistic regressions examined the associations of bullying, SMA, and ideation, and also how connectedness mediates this from age 9 and 15 (Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study; N = 3,023 adolescents).

Results

At age 9, SMA reported higher levels of daily bullying compared with heterosexual peers (26% versus 14%), and at age 15, SMA reported daily (7%) and weekly (20%) bullying. SMA (32%) reported ideation compared with their heterosexual peers (13%) at age 15. Parental and school connectedness protected adolescents regardless of sexual orientation for SI, but parental attachment buffered the effect of SMA ideation more than school connectedness.

Conclusion

Impressing upon schools to be mindful of bullying on their campuses, especially of SMA, is crucial for suicide prevention as we found heterosexual students connected to their school were protected from ideation, yet this was not found for SMA. Strong parent–child bonds can mediate the effects of bullying while at school, speaking to the importance of having at least one trusted adult in an adolescent's life.
Visualising Small Traumas
Authors: Moura Pedro
Published: August 2021

Portugal's vibrant comics scene originated as early as the 19th century, bringing forth brilliant individual artists, but has remained mostly unknown beyond Portugal’s borders to this day. Now a new generation employs this medium to put into question hegemonic views on the economy, politics, and society. Following the experience of the financial crisis of the past decades and its impact on social policies, access to and rules of public discourse, and civil strife, comics have questioned what constitutes a traumatogenic situation and what can act as a creative response. By looking at established graphic novels by Marco Mendes and Miguel Rocha, fanzine-level, and even experimental productions, Visualising Small Traumas is the first English-language book that addresses Portuguese contemporary comics and investigates how trauma studies can both shed a light on comics making and be informed by that very same practice.
Simulation interprofessional education in health professions education: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Lemke Kelly C. , Velasquez Sadie Trammell , Bland Leticia , Lopez Emme , Ajtai Rebecca , Ford Lark A. , Amezaga Braulio , Cleveland James A. , Ferguson Diane , Richardson Wesley , Saenz Daniel , Zorek Joseph A.
Published: August 2021

Objective:

The objective of this scoping review is to identify, collate, and map the evidence on simulation interprofessional education activities in any setting for the education of health professional students.

Introduction:

Simulation interprofessional education activities comprise in-person and collaborative online learning embedded in formal curricula. Though the number of simulation interprofessional education activities has increased with the knowledge of the importance of effective interprofessional collaboration, the literature still lacks a description of the characteristics of existing activities.

Inclusion criteria:

This scoping review will consider interprofessional education activities taking place within a simulation environment. Included papers will report on activities with two or more types of learners in health professional programs.

Methods:

The proposed scoping review will be conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. Databases searched will include PubMed, CINAHL, and ERIC. Results will be limited to English-language publications from 2016 to the present year. Data extraction will be performed using a purposefully developed data extraction tool. Teams of reviewers will screen abstracts and full texts of articles for potential inclusion, and decisions will be determined via consensus of two out of three reviewers. Extracted data will be presented in diagrammatic or tabular form in a manner that aligns with the objective of this scoping review. A narrative summary will accompany the tabulated and/or charted results and will describe how the results relate to the review's objective and questions, and how the results might inform future simulation interprofessional education activities in health professions education.
Professional representation of conversational agents for health care: a scoping review protocol
Authors: MacNeill A. Luke , MacNeill Lillian , Doucet Shelley , Luke Alison
Published: August 2021

Objective:

The purpose of this scoping review is to examine the professional representation of conversational agents that are used for health care. Professional characteristics associated with these agents will be identified, and the prevalence of these characteristics will be determined.

Introduction:

Conversational agents that are used for health care lack the qualifications and capabilities of real health professionals, but this fact may not be clear to some patients and health seekers. This problem may be exacerbated when conversational agents are described as health professionals or are given professional titles or appearances. To date, the professional representation of conversational agents that are used for health care has received little attention in the literature.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include scholarly publications on conversational agents that are used for health care, particularly descriptive/developmental case studies and intervention/evaluation studies. This review will consider conversational agents designed for patients and health seekers, but not health professionals or trainees. Agents addressing physical and/or mental health will be considered.

Methods:

This review will be conducted in accordance with JBI methodology for scoping reviews. The databases to be searched will include MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL with Full Text (EBSCO), Scopus (Elsevier), Web of Science (Clarivate), ACM Guide to Computing Literature (ACM Digital Library), and IEEE Xplore (IEEE). The extracted data will include study characteristics, basic characteristics of the conversational agent, and characteristics relating to the professional representation of the conversational agent. The extracted data will be presented in tabular format and summarized using frequency analysis. These results will be accompanied by a narrative summary.
Application of Shape Factor to Mechanical Behavior of Thermal Interface Pads and Putties
Authors: Schoch Karl F. , Panackal Philip A. , Bimstefer M. Garrett , Brocki Amanda N. , Urban Daniel N.
Published: August 2021

Thermal interface materials (TIMs) are an essential part of managing the thermal performance of electronic assemblies. Knowledge of the mechanical properties of these materials is required in order to have a robust design that will perform as required over the life of the product, including many thermal cycles, without causing damage to electrical components. In this paper, we report on the mechanical properties of three putty TIMs and four pad TIMs, showing that the stiffness of the TIMs is proportional to the square of the initial shape factor over the range of shape factors from 1 to 18. Since the putties can flow more readily under pressure than the pads, the putties had a lower measured stiffness at a given shape factor compared to the pads. From these relationships, designers can predict loads with various geometries (i.e., shape factors) and loading rates (i.e., shock loading versus temperature cycling), which can impact their design. While all of the materials were tested at compressive strain rates of 20–70% strain/minute, one putty was also tested at a 10× higher rate to determine the effect of a relatively high strain rate on the peak stress. In that case, the peak stress was approximately 3× higher than measured at the lower strain rates. However, the relaxed load at each strain rate tested was unaffected by strain rate, indicating that hardware assembly conditions can be adjusted to minimize stress on components and yet, still achieve an interface having low thermal resistance.
Multideck light-induced reset in a transparent bilayer synaptic device
Authors: Berco Dan , Ang Diing S.
Published: August 2021

The research of photoelectric memristors has been gaining momentum in recent years. Although resistive memory synaptic devices are usually electrically controlled, an opto-electronic one would certainly be advantageous. A light-responsive structure can extend the functionality of such devices and allow for coupling of light and electrical signals in the implementation of neuromorphic systems. This paper presents a detailed analysis of a transparent, bilayer synaptic device, capable of hybrid photonic and electronic response with multideck, erase functionality. Such steplike operation may allow for more degrees of freedom in the implementation of artificial vision systems based on these incremental conductance changes. Multilevel operation is demonstrated under different illumination intensities and functional methodologies (i.e., irradiation schemes). Statistical data are also presented to give a better foundation for this suggested functionality. Finally, the underlying physical mechanisms are discussed, supported by ultrahigh-vacuum conductive atomic force microscope measurements over a dedicated lateral test structure.
FPM-β: A method for waveguide invariant estimation using one-dimensional broadband acoustic intensity
Authors: Gao Wei , Wang Shoudong , Li Xiaolei
Published: August 2021

Based on the finiteness of normal modes that can propagate over long distances in an ocean waveguide, a waveguide invariant estimation method by combining β-warping transform operator and singular value decomposition is proposed in this letter. This method only needs to process the one-dimensional broadband acoustic intensity spectrum received by a single hydrophone and does not require any prior information of marine environmental parameters. Simulations and experiment verify the effectiveness of the method.
Differential regulation of G protein signaling in
Arabidopsis
through two distinct pathways that internalize AtRGS1
Authors: Watkins Justin M. , Ross-Elliott Timothy J. , Shan Xiaoyi , Lou Fei , Dreyer Bernd , Tunc-Ozdemir Meral , Jia Haiyan , Yang Jing , Oliveira Celio Cabral , Wu Luguang , Trusov Yuri , Schwochert Timothy D. , Krysan Patrick , Jones Alan M.
Published: August 2021

Segregated pathways enable AtRGS1 endocytosis to transduce signal-specific responses in
Arabidopsis
.
Outside in and brakes off for lymphatic growth
Authors: Künnapuu Jaana , Jeltsch Michael
Published: August 2021

Blocking the intracellular brakes on VEGFR3 signaling yields functional lymphatic growth (Kataru
et al.
, in 10 August 2021 issue).
DeSUMOylation of Apoptosis Inhibitor 5 by
Avibirnavirus
VP3 Supports Virus Replication
Authors: Deng Tingjuan , Hu Boli , Wang Xingbo , Yan Yan , Zhou Jianwei , Lin Lulu , Xu Yuting , Zheng Xiaojuan , Zhou Jiyong
Published: August 2021

Apoptosis inhibitor 5 (API5) is a nuclear protein initially identified for its antiapoptotic function. However, so far, posttranslational modification of API5 is unclear.
Supplemental Material: Biostratigraphy, Age, and Paleoenvironment of the Pliocene Beaufort Formation on Meighen Island, Canadian Arctic Archipelago
Authors: Barendregt René W. , al. et
Published: August 2021

Table S1: Fossils from Unit C on Meighen Island: 3-3-11, 3-3-12, 3-3-13, 3-3-14, 3-3-15, 3-3-16, 4-4-17, 4-4-18, 9-12-19, 9-12-20, 9-12-21, 11-15-22, 13-17-23, 14-18-24. Table S2: Site-locality-sample naming schemes, numbered from approximately east to west and south to north. Table S3: Fossils from Unit B (the muddy beds) at sites near Bjaere Bay on Meighen Island: 5-6-5, 5-6-6, 5-6-7, 13-17-8. Table S4: Fossils from Unit A, below the marine sediments in the Bjaere Bay region, Meighen Island: 12-16-2, 10-14-3, 1-1-4. Table S5: Fossils from Unit C2 above Unit D in the Bjaere Bay region of Meighen Island: 2-2-1, 7-8-9, 7-8-10. Table S6: Fossils from Unit D at site 7, localities 8, 9, and 10. Table S7: Macrofossils from site likely within Unit C, from Kuc (1974). Table S8: Foraminiferal sample and specimen information.
Isorhythmic atrioventricular dissociation in an adult with levo-transposition of the great arteries
Authors: Popescu Lucian , Diaconu Rodica , Constantin Anca , Donoiu Ionut
Published: August 2021

A 36-year-old woman with levo-transposition of the great arteries presented for a programmed visit. She was asymptomatic and the clinical examination showed no signs of decompensated heart failure. Standard 12-lead ECG showed isorhythmic atrioventricular dissociation. A 24-hour ambulatory recording demonstrated sinus rhythm with intermittent periods of isorhythmic dissociation. This case highlights the association between two rare conditions.
Randomised trials of proton pump inhibitors for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in patients with asthma: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Zhoude , Luo Yunyun , Li Jia , Gao Jinming
Published: August 2021

Objective

Asthma often coexists with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The effect of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) treatment on asthma concomitant with GERD was inconsistent. This study aimed to assess whether PPIs treatment improved morning peak expiratory flow (mPEF) in asthma patients with GERD.

Data sources

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov; hand searching for reference lists; contacted with authors if necessary.

Study selection

All eligible trials were randomised clinical trials comparing PPIs with placebo in asthma patients accompanying with GERD.

Results

Fourteen randomised clinical trials (2182 participants) were included. Overall, PPIs versus placebo did not affect mPEF in patients with asthma having GERD (weighted mean difference 8.68 L/min, 95% CI −2.02 to 19.37, p=0.11). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) further confirmed this finding (TSA adjusted 95% CI −1.03 to 22.25). Subgroups analyses based on the percentage of patients with symptomatic GERD≥95%, treatment duration >12 weeks also found no statistically significant benefit on mPEF. Similarly, analyses of secondary outcomes (evening PEF, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, asthma symptoms score, asthma quality of life score and episodes of asthma exacerbation) did not show significant difference between PPIs and placebo.

Conclusion

In this meta-analysis, PPIs therapy did not show a statistically significant improvement on mPEF in asthma patients having GERD, neither in subgroup with symptomatic GERD nor in subgroup with treatment duration >12 weeks. This analysis does not support a recommendation for PPIs therapy as empirical treatment in asthma patients with GERD.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020177330.
Prewarming i-gel laryngeal mask for mechanical ventilation: a meta-analysis of randomised control trials and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Zheng Jianqiao , Du Li , Wang Jia , Zhang Lu , Chen Guo
Published: August 2021

Objective

To systematically evaluate the efficiency of prewarming i-gel laryngeal mask for mechanical ventilation by meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

Cochrane library, Web of Science, Ovid Medline and PubMed were searched from their inception to 31 August 2020. Only articles published in English language were considered.

Methods

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficiency of prewarming i-gel laryngeal mask versus keeping it at room temperature for mechanical ventilation were included. Primary outcome was sealing pressure immediately after successful ventilation. Secondary outcomes were the first-attempt insertion success rate and the incidence of postoperative pharyngeal pain. Two authors independently selected studies. Quality analysis was performed using the modified Jadad Scale. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to control risk of random errors. Sensitivity analysis was done to assess the effect of a single study on the pooled estimates. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plots and Egger’s regression test.

Results

Four RCTs comprising 374 patients were included. The results of meta-analysis showed that compared with the control group, prewarming i-gel laryngeal mask provides a higher sealing pressure immediately after successful ventilation (mean difference 2.19 cm H2O; 95% CI (1.17 to 3.21); p<0.0001; high quality), with firm evidence from TSA and lower publication bias (p=0.7372). No significant difference was observed in the first-attempt insertion success rate (relative ratio (RR) 1.06; 95% CI (1.00 to 1.12); p=0.07; high quality) with lower publication bias (p=0.1378). The TSA indicating further trials are required. No significant difference was assessed in the incidence of postoperative pharyngeal pain (RR 1.0; 95% CI (0.14 to 6.90); p=1.0; high quality).

Conclusion

Prewarming i-gel laryngeal mask provides higher sealing pressure compared with keeping it at room temperature. But prewarming i-gel laryngeal mask did not increase the first-attempt insertion success rate, nor did it decrease the incidence of postoperative pharyngeal pain.