bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracking animal reservoirs of pathogenic Leptospira: the right test for the right claim
Authors: Gomard Yann , Dellagi Koussay , Goodman Steve Michael , Mavingui Patrick , Tortosa Pablo
Published: September 2021

Leptospirosis, caused by a pathogenic Leptospira bacteria, is the most prevalent zoonosis worldwide and in this context has been extensively investigated through a One Health framework. Diagnosis of human leptospirosis includes molecular and serological tools, with serological Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) still being considered as a gold standard. Mammals considered as biological reservoirs include species or populations that are able to maintain chronic infection and shed the bacteria via their urine in the environment. Leptospira bacteria are often investigated using the same diagnosis tool, serological MAT. However, MAT testing of putative animal reservoirs can lead to mis-interpretations as it can signal previous infection and not necessarily bring in robust information regarding the capacity of such sero-positive animals to maintain chronic infection. We use previously published data and present new results on introduced and endemic small mammals to show that MAT should not be used for the identification of reservoirs. By contrast, serological data are informative on the level of exposure of animals occupying a specific environment. Finally, we present a sequential methodology to investigate human leptospirosis in a One Health framework that associates molecular detection in humans and animals, together with MAT of human samples using Leptospira isolates obtained from reservoir animals occurring in the same environment.
An energy-aware approach for resources allocating in the internet of things using a forest optimization algorithm
Authors: Wu Minning , Zhang Feng , Rui X.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Internet of things (IoT) is essential in technical, social and economic domains, but there are many challenges that researchers are continuously trying to solve. Traditional resource allocation methods in IoT focused on the optimal resource selection process, but the energy consumption for allocating resources is not considered sufficiently. This paper aims to propose a resource allocation technique aiming at energy and delay reduction in resource allocation. Because of the non-deterministic polynomial-time hard nature of the resource allocation issue and the forest optimization algorithm’s success in complex problems, the authors used this algorithm to allocate resources in IoT.

Design/methodology/approach

For the vast majority of IoT applications, energy-efficient communications, sustainable energy supply and reduction of latency have been major goals in resource allocation, making operating systems and applications more efficient. One of the most critical challenges in this field is efficient resource allocation. This paper has provided a new technique to solve the mentioned problem using the forest optimization algorithm. To simulate and analyze the proposed technique, the MATLAB software environment has been used. The results obtained from implementing the proposed method have been compared to the particle swarm optimization (PSO), genetic algorithm (GA) and distance-based algorithm.

Findings

Simulation results show that the proper performance of the proposed technique. The proposed method, in terms of “energy” and “delay,” is better than other ones (GA, PSO and distance-based algorithm).

Practical implications

The paper presents a useful method for improving resource allocation methods. The proposed method has higher efficiency compared to the previous methods. The MATLAB-based simulation results have indicated that energy consumption and delay have been improved compared to other algorithms, which causes the high application of this method in practical projects. In the future, the focus will be on resource failure and reducing the service level agreement violation rate concerning the number of resources.

Originality/value

The proposed technique can solve the mentioned problem in the IoT with the best resource utilization, low delay and reduced energy consumption. The proposed forest optimization-based algorithm is a promising technique to help enterprises participate in IoT initiatives and develop their business.
The role of sociomaterial assemblage on entrepreneurship in coworking-spaces
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Mahmood , Bouncken Ricarda , Görmar Lars
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Coworking-spaces are considered as a new formula to facilitate autonomy, creativity, self-efficacy, work satisfaction and innovation, yet they also might overburden their users who in that course intend to limit social interaction and collaboration in the workspace. Thus, the question is how coworking-spaces shape entrepreneurial ventures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an inductive research methodology based on data from three different data sources, including observations, archives and interviews from managers and entrepreneurs.

Findings

The findings suggest that the materiality in the form of spatial architectures (working, socialization and support structures) shared facilities and infrastructures (utilities, luxuries and specialties), and integrated digital technologies (applications and platforms) influence the flow of communication, internal and external linkages, as well as functional uniformity and distinctiveness. However, there exists an inherent dualism in sociomaterial assemblage in coworking-spaces, which can lead to instrumental and detrimental outcomes for entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study explains the role of sociomaterial assemblage on the working of entrepreneurs in shared workspaces.
Epidemiology and outcomes of dialysis requiring acute kidney injury: A single‐center study
Authors: Jaryal Ajay , Vikrant Sanjay , Gupta Dalip
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common diagnosis in hospitalized patients. Dialysis requiring AKI (AKI‐D) is associated with adverse outcomes. This study aims to know the clinical profile and short‐term outcomes at 3 months, in patients with AKI‐D, at our center.

Methods

A prospective observational study was done of all the patients admitted with AKI‐D for 2 years, from July 2018 to June 2020. We recorded clinical parameters at baseline and postdischarge follow‐up at 3 months.

Results

One hundred twenty‐eight patients had AKI‐D over 2 years. Then, 116 (90.6%) patients had community‐acquired AKI (CAAKI), and 12 (9.4%) patients had hospital‐acquired AKI. The underlying causes of AKI‐D were: toxins in 48 (37.5%), sepsis in 31 (24.2%), acute kidney disease in 15 (11.7%), acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in 9 (7%), and cardiogenic shock in 7 (5.5%) patients. The mean values of intact parathyroid hormone (available in 32% of patients) were 268 pg/mL. Intermittent hemodialysis was the commonest mode of dialysis (85.2%). A kidney biopsy was done in 23 (18%) patients. The most common diagnosis on kidney biopsy was glomerulonephritis (GN) in 12 patients (crescentic GN‐9 and IgA nephropathy‐3), followed by acute tubule‐interstitial nephritis in 6 patients. In‐hospital mortality was 29.7%. Overall, 39% regained serum creatinine in the normal range at 3 months, 36.7% died, 14.1% reached chronic kidney disease (CKD), 7.8% lost to follow‐up, and 2.3% had reached end‐stage renal disease.

Conclusion

The majority of AKI‐D at our center was CAAKI. A significant chunk of AKI‐D (68.7%) was caused by preventable causes like toxins, sepsis, and AGE. Dysregulation of mineral metabolism was conspicuous. In chemical toxin vs. biological toxins and undifferentiated sepsis vs. the identifiable cause of sepsis, formers had significantly more in‐hospital mortality than the latter ones. AKI‐D is associated with high in‐hospital mortality, total mortality, and risk of progression to CKD at 3 months.
Banking structure change and corporate innovation: evidence from Chinese city‐branch data
Authors: Xin Fu , Zhang Jie , Guo Yue , Liang Shangkun
Published: September 2021

This paper documents empirical support for a key micro‐level channel – banking structure change induced by entry of small banks – through which financial sector deregulation affects corporate innovation. Using China’s banking deregulation on city commercial banks in 2006, we find robust evidence that banking structural change induced by the entry of small banks stimulates local industrial patent output. Furthermore, we find that the stimulating effects of small bank entry on local industrial patent output are more pronounced when the local banking system is previously dominated by large state‐owned banks and when the small banks have entered a city with more small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Our study suggests that banking structure change induced by small banks crucially affects the real economy.
Rates of switching stimulants in consecutively referred medication naïve adults with ADHD
Authors: Biederman Joseph , DiSalvo Maura , Green Allison , Woodworth K. Yvonne , Gilfix Talia , Law Cecilia , Gabrieli John , Faraone Stephen V.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate the frequency and correlates of needing to switch the initial treatment with a stimulant medication to the alternative family in newly referred, untreated adults with ADHD initiating treatment.

Methods

Subjects were consecutively referred unmedicated adults with DSM‐5 ADHD who initiated stimulant treatment. Before assessment with an expert clinician, participants completed a battery of self‐report measures to assess psychopathology, executive functioning, emotional dysregulation, and mind wandering. The rate of switching was examined using information from electronic medical records for up to three clinical follow‐up visits. Those who did and did not need to switch were compared on baseline demographic and clinical characteristics.

Results

Twenty‐four percent (N = 21/86) of ADHD patients needed to switch from their initially prescribed stimulant family within 60 days of initiating treatment due to poor tolerability. While the rate of switching was significantly higher in those initially prescribed MPH, the rate of patients requiring changes in formulation or additional antianxiety or antidepressant treatment was higher in those taking AMPH. There were some hints about predictive risk factors for switching by the presence of emotional dysregulation and depressive symptoms, depending on age and sex.

Conclusions

These findings call for improved efforts to help identify predictors of response to stimulant treatment in adults with ADHD to avoid unnecessary delays in identifying safe and effective treatments for these patients.
Barriers to salpingectomy for permanent contraception: A qualitative study with obstetricians and gynaecologists
Authors: Obermair Helena M. , Muir Georgia , Gard Gregory B.
Published: September 2021

Consideration of risk‐reducing bilateral salpingectomy has been recommended instead of tubal occlusive procedures for female sterilisation due to the role of the Fallopian tubes in the aetiology of serous ovarian malignancies. This study identified barriers to performing salpingectomy for permanent contraception. Twenty‐two semi‐structured interviews were conducted with Australian gynaecologists, and transcripts analysed qualitatively. Barriers to performing bilateral salpingectomy included: (a) patient factors (younger age and risk of regret); (b) operative complexity and complications (particularly risk of bleeding); (c) surgeon factors (lack of awareness of guidelines supporting salpingectomy; less comfort with laparoscopic surgery); and (d) practical system challenges (including cost and equipment availability).
Robotic total mesorectal excision or transanal total mesorectal excision meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Michelle Zhiyun , Tay Yeng Kwang , Warrier Satish K. , Heriot Alexander G. , Kong Joseph C.
Published: September 2021

Backgrounds

Total mesorectal excision (TME) has been established as the standard for oncologic resection of rectal cancer, and has a direct impact on local recurrence and overall survival.

Objectives

Our meta‐analysis aims to evaluate the oncological outcomes of the newer techniques of TME – robotic TME versus Transanal TME (TaTME). Primary outcome measures included CRM positivity, R0 resection status, distal resection margins and lymph node yield. Secondary outcome measures were overall complication rates, anastomotic leak and wound infection rates, post‐operative ileus rates and mean operative time.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant studies through PubMEd and Embase from January 2000 to January 2021. Inclusion criteria included English language articles directly comparing TaTME and robotic TME.

Results

Seven hundred and fourteen studies were identified, and only six studies were included for this meta‐analysis. A total of 1065 participants, of which 632 (59.3%) underwent robotic TME, and 433 (40.7%) had TaTME. Robotic TME had a statistically significant higher lymph node yield (SMD ‐0.53, p = 0.020). There were no significant differences in the overall complication rates, wound infection and anastomotic leak rates, post‐operative ileus, mean operative time and CRM positivity.

Conclusion

This is the first meta‐analysis assessing the outcomes of robotic TME versus TaTME, and only lymph node yield was statistically higher in robotic TME group. These techniques are potentially complementary rather than competing, and we believe that these two approaches can be adopted after appropriate training.
A review of the characteristics, mechanisms and clinical significance of habituation in foetuses and newborn infants
Authors: Sicard‐Cras Iona , Rioualen Stéphane , Pellae Elisabeth , Misery Laurent , Sizun Jacques , Roué Jean‐Michel
Published: September 2021

Habituation has been a topic of interest since the early 20th century. We summarise the characteristics of habituation, the proposed habituation mechanisms, the associated cortical responses and the link between habituation and cognitive development. Behavioural and neuroimaging studies have highlighted the early sensory abilities of foetuses and newborn infants, with preterm newborn infants exhibiting decreased habituation and dishabituation capabilities that increase their environmental vulnerability. Habituation provides a foundation for the learning and cognition on which higher functions are constructed. It has been suggested that it is efficient for predicting cognitive developmental outcomes in term and preterm newborn infants.
Validation and public health modelling of risk prediction models for kidney cancer using the UK Biobank
Authors: Harrison Hannah , Pennells Lisa , Wood Angela , Rossi Sabrina H. , Stewart Grant D. , Griffin Simon J. , Usher‐Smith Juliet A.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To externally validate risk models for the detection of kidney cancer, as early detection of kidney cancer improves survival and stratifying the population using risk models could enable an individually tailored screening programme.

Methods

We validated the performance of 30 existing phenotypic models predicting the risk of kidney cancer in the UK Biobank cohort (n = 450 687). We compared the discrimination and calibration of models for men, women, and a mixed‐sex cohort. Population level data were used to estimate model performance in a screening scenario for a range of risk thresholds (6‐year risk: 0.1–1.0%).

Results

In all, 10 models had reasonable discrimination (area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve >0.60), although some had poor calibration. Modelling demonstrated similar performance of the best models over a range of thresholds. The models showed an improvement in ability to identify cases compared to age‐ and sex‐based screening. All the models performed less well in women than men.

Conclusions

The present study is the first comprehensive external validation of risk models for kidney cancer. The best‐performing models are better at identifying individuals at high risk of kidney cancer than age and sex alone; however, the benefits are relatively small. Feasibility studies are required to determine applicability to a screening programme.
Microvessel stenosis, enlarged perivascular spaces, and fibrinogen deposition are associated with ischemic periventricular white matter hyperintensities
Authors: Roseborough Austyn D. , Rasheed Berk , Jung Youngkyung , Nishimura Kevin , Pinsky William , Langdon Kristopher D. , Hammond Robert , Pasternak Stephen H. , Khan Ali R. , Whitehead Shawn N.
Published: September 2021

Periventricular white matter hyperintensities (pvWMH) are neuroimaging abnormalities surrounding the lateral ventricles that are apparent on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). They are associated with age, neurodegenerative disease, and cerebrovascular risk factors. While pvWMH ultimately represent a loss of white matter structural integrity, the pathological causes are heterogeneous in nature, and currently, cannot be distinguished using neuroimaging alone. pvWMH could occur because of a combination of small vessel disease (SVD), ependymal loss, blood–brain barrier dysfunction, and microgliosis. In this study we aimed to characterize microvascular stenosis, fibrinogen extravasation, and microgliosis within pvWMH with and without imaging evidence of periventricular infarction. Using postmortem neuroimaging of human brains (n = 20), we identified pvWMH with and without periventricular infarcts (PVI). We performed histological analysis of microvessel stenosis, perivascular spaces, microgliosis, and immunohistochemistry against fibrinogen as a measure of serum protein extravasation. Herein, we report distinctions between pvWMH with and without periventricular infarcts based on associations with microvessel stenosis, enlarged perivascular spaces, and fibrinogen IHC. Microvessel stenosis was significantly associated with PVI and with cellular deposition of fibrinogen in the white matter. The presence of fibrinogen was associated with PVI and increased number of microglia. These findings suggest that neuroimaging‐based detection of infarction within pvWMH may help distinguish more severe lesions, associated with underlying microvascular disease and BBB dysfunction, from milder pvWMH that are a highly frequent finding on MRI.
Tumor eradicated by combination of imiquimod and OX40 agonist for in situ vaccination
Authors: Chu Yanhong , Li Rutian , Qian Lingyu , Liu Fangcen , Xu Ruihan , Meng Fanyan , Ke Yaohua , Shao Jie , Yu Lixia , Liu Qin , Liu Baorui
Published: September 2021

Various cancer vaccines have been developed to generate and amplify antigen‐specific T cell responses against malignancy. Among them, in situ vaccination is one of the most practical types as it can trigger immune responses without previous antigen identification. Here we reported a novel in situ vaccine by intratumoral injection of imiquimod and OX40 agonist. In mice bearing hepatic carcinoma, both the injected tumor and the noninjected tumor in the distant lesion of the same mice were suppressed after vaccination. Further studies found that this in situ vaccine triggered systemic tumor‐specific responses, with one‐fold increase of effector memory T cells properties and stronger toxicity of lymphocytes in spleen. Besides, we found that imiquimod upregulated the expression of OX40 on CD4+ T cells and thus enhanced the effectiveness of OX40 agonist. Five immune‐positive‐related pathways were activated after vaccination. This in situ vaccine caused little harm to normal organs and provided long‐term protection against the same syngeneic tumor rechallenge. Due to its effectiveness, feasibility and safety, this strategy could potentially be applied to various types of late‐stage solid tumors and worthy of further clinical research.
Contact allergy in a paediatric population observed in a tertiary referral centre in Belgium
Authors: Noë Esther , Huygens Sara , Morren Marie‐Anne , Garmyn Marjan , Goossens An , Gilissen Liesbeth
Published: September 2021

Background

Contact allergy is increasingly recognized as being important in children with eczema.

Objectives

To retrospectively analyse the patch test results in children over the past 10 years, aiming to (1) evaluate demographic characteristics and lesion locations, (2) describe frequencies of positive patch test reactions, and (3) investigate the relationship with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods

A total of 329 children were patch tested between January 2010 and December 2019 with the European (children) baseline series and/or other series, and the personal product(s) used.

Results

A total of 119 (36%) children presented with at least one positive reaction. Children with AD had a higher prevalence of positive reactions compared with the non‐AD group (P = .002), but without statistically significant difference regarding sensitization to more than one hapten (P = .39). The face (20.2%), hands (19.3%), feet (16.8%), arms (12.6%), and body folds (10.9%) were the most common sites of primary localizations. The most frequent contact allergens were nickel sulfate and linalool hydroperoxide (both 16%), limonene hydroperoxide (13.5%), and para‐phenylenediamine (10.9%). No statistically significant difference for nickel sulfate was found between the AD and non‐AD group (P = .20).

Conclusions

Contact allergy in children with eczema was frequently observed in our tertiary referral centre in Belgium as well, confirming the need for patch testing.
The role of social identity in improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and health services: Evidence from Nepal
Authors: Balasubramanya Soumya , Stifel David , Alvi Muzna , Ringler Claudia
Published: September 2021

Motivation

COVID‐19 has revived focus on improving equitable access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and health services in developing countries. Most public programming tends to rely on economic indicators to identify and target vulnerable groups. Can expanded targeting criteria that include social status help to improve not only targeting, but also equity in access to WASH and health services?

Purpose

This article assesses the role of social identity in mediating access to WASH and health services, controlling for economic disadvantages such as household wealth, income sources, and assets.

Methods and approach

We use regression analysis applied to the 2016 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) to estimate the relationships between social identity and access to WASH and health services, controlling for wealth (using wealth index quantiles) and remittances (using indicator variables for domestic and international remittances).

Findings

We find that differences in access are mediated in large part by caste, and religious and ethnic identity, especially in rural areas, suggesting that the supply of such services is lower for historically disadvantaged communities. In addition, communities with least access are not necessarily the most economically disadvantaged, indicating that relying solely on traditional economic indicators to target programmes and interventions may not be sufficient to improve equity in access to public health services.

Policy implications

The results make a case for broadening indicators beyond the economic criteria for improving targeting of public funds for more inclusive development.
The effects of CO2 laser and topical agent combination therapy for onychomycosis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Han Yang , Wang Yi , Zhang Xin‐rui , Chen Juan , Li Xiao‐dong
Published: September 2021

The routine options for onychomycosis are oral, topical, and device‐based therapies which are often limited in terms of efficacy and unsatisfactory side effects. Topical agents such as luliconazole, tioconazole, terbinafine, and tazarotene can be more effective when combined with laser therapies. Our aim was to compare the efficacy and satisfaction rates of CO2 laser therapy with topical agents in patients with onychomycosis. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, and Ovid databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects of combined therapies. Selected study data were analyzed for differences expressed as odds ratio (OR) and relative ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes. Efficacy and satisfaction outcomes were assessed using quantitative methods. Our investigations showed that combined CO2 laser and topical treatments significantly increased efficacy 5.38‐fold when compared with topical agents alone (OR 5.38; 95% CI; 3.20–9.04; p < 0.00001), with low heterogeneity observed among studies (I2 = 38%). Mycological clearance comparison rates were also improved by combined treatments. The higher satisfaction of the combined group was assessed by pooled effect (OR 4.56; 95% CI; 2.78–7.49; p < 0.00001). Our evidence suggests combined therapy may exert positive effects and satisfactory safety for patients with moderate to severe onychomycosis, however, optimal combination options and appropriate dosages require more comprehensive RCTs.
Left atrial intramural hematoma: The role of echocardiography
Authors: Greco Cosimo Angelo , Albanese Miriam , Pisanò Ennio Carmine , Garzya Massimiliano , Donateo Mario , Nicolardi Salvatore , Scotto di Quacquaro Antonio , Mangia Federica , De Razza Luigi , Casali Giovanni , Zaccaria Salvatore
Published: September 2021

Left atrial intramural hematoma (LAIH) is an uncommon entity for which a timely diagnosis is critical for decision making. Cardiac surgical or catheter‐based procedures are potential causing factors. Though cardiac computerized tomography and magnetic resonance are highly accurate diagnostic modalities, their role is limited by the lack of widespread availability. The present clinical case illustrates the diagnostic features of LAIH that can be obtained using echocardiography at the bedside in critically ill patients. We report a case of LAIH, that followed a catheter ablation procedure and was complicated by cardiac and cerebral ischemia. Cardiac surgical management was required.
Comparison of three protocols for the management of re‐fracture of teeth with uncomplicated crown fractures
Authors: Tewari Nitesh , Tamchos Rigzen , Chaurasia Bikash , Rahul Morankar , Mathur Vijay Prakash , Goel Shubhi , Bansal Kalpana
Published: September 2021

Background

Crown fractures restored by fragment reattachment are liable to re‐fracture, which may cause fragment dislodgement. There is a paucity of literature regarding management of fragment reattachment cases following a further fracture. Hence the aim of the present in‐vitro study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of three different management protocols for such scenarios.

Methodology

Eighty maxillary bovine incisors without structural deformity and with similar dimensions were fractured as per the standard protocol. They were subjected to drying for 24 hours and the fragments were rehydrated by placing them in a humidification chamber for 15 minutes. They were then reattached by using flowable light‐cured composite resin. The teeth (n=20) were fractured again by fixing them in a mechanical frame and using a mallet. They were randomly allocated to three experimental groups. (Group I mechanical abrasion and fragment reattachment, Group II mechanical abrasion, humidification and reattachment, Group III mechanical abrasion and composite restoration, and Group IV positive control with no re‐fracture). The samples were thermocycled and the force required to fracture was tested by using a universal testing machine (Instron‐3360, USA). This was done by applying a tangential load with a speed of 1 mm/min to the teeth with a 500‐kg load cell. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using ANOVA and the independent t‐test.

Results

The highest force required to fracture was reported in Group IV (333.26 ± 66.69N) while the lowest was in Group II (254.86 ± 105.23N). The forces in Group I and Group II were 258.36 ± 65.78N and 298.02 ± 97.94N, respectively (p=0.016, F=3.68). The independent t‐test between the groups revealed a significant difference between Group I and Group IV (p= 0.001) and Group II and Group IV (p=0.009).

Conclusion

The force required to fracture was significantly lower in the groups involving attachment of the re‐fractured fragments. Among the experimental groups, the group with composite restoration required the highest force to fracture.
Infraposition or infraocclusion– Is it time to rename?
Authors: Doğramacı Esma , Rossi‐Fedele Giampiero
Published: September 2021

Dental infraposition and dental infraocclusion, hereinafter referred to as infraposition and infraocclusion respectively, are terms that are often used interchangeably. This can be noted in the International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines for the management of traumatic dental injuries, where infraocclusion is listed as an injury‐specific outcome following avulsion of permanent teeth. Infraposition and infraocclusion are terms that have been used in the dental literature to describe teeth that interfere with the normal eruption and development of the permanent dentition. While teeth described in this manner share certain clinical characteristics that give rise to these terms being used interchangeably within the dental traumatology field, this may not necessarily be correct and may be confusing. The aim of this short communication is to start a discussion in the dental trauma community regarding the need for a more adequate term, particularly in relation to replanted teeth.
The EU's role in income redistribution and insurance: Support, norm‐setter or provider? A review of justice‐based arguments
Authors: Vandenbroucke Frank
Published: September 2021

Income redistribution and insurance are core functions of welfare states. What role should the EU play in this domain? I examine the purchase of normative theorizing on social justice on this question, focusing on the contrast between three models of EU involvement: the EU as Support, which implies the sharing of resources through intergovernmental transfers; the EU as Provider, which implies EU cross‐border transfers towards individual citizens; the EU as Norm‐setter, which implies that the EU formulates normative policy ideals. I review different accounts of justice for the EU and how they bear on the choice between these models of EU involvement. Conceptions of “background justice” have some purchase in a debate on the EU's role, but that purchase is limited. They need to be complemented by shared conceptions of domestic justice and a degree of moral cosmopolitanism. I argue that a “European Social Union” should be a Support and Norm‐setter in the realm of insurance and redistribution. Through the establishment of interstate insurance, it would be a true “insurance union.” It would engage in interstate redistribution, but there are no compelling reasons of justice for it to become a direct Provider of insurance or redistribution towards individual citizens.
Trophic downgrading decreases species asynchrony and community stability regardless of climate warming
Authors: Rezende Felipe , Antiqueira Pablo A. P. , Petchey Owen L. , Velho Luiz Felipe M. , Rodrigues Luzia C. , Romero Gustavo Q.
Published: September 2021

Theory and some evidence suggest that biodiversity promotes stability. However, evidence of how trophic interactions and environmental changes modulate this relationship in multitrophic communities is lacking. Given the current scenario of biodiversity loss and climate changes, where top predators are disproportionately more affected, filling these knowledge gaps is crucial. We simulated climate warming and top predator loss in natural microcosms to investigate their direct and indirect effects on temporal stability of microbial communities and the role of underlying stabilising mechanisms. Community stability was insensitive to warming, but indirectly decreased due to top predator loss via increased mesopredator abundance and consequent reduction of species asynchrony and species stability. The magnitude of destabilising effects differed among trophic levels, being disproportionally higher at lower trophic levels (e.g. producers). Our study unravels major patterns and causal mechanisms by which trophic downgrading destabilises large food webs, regardless of climate warming scenarios.
A national study of epilepsy‐related deaths in Scotland: Trends, mechanisms, and avoidable deaths
Authors: Mbizvo Gashirai K. , Schnier Christian , Simpson Colin R. , Chin Richard F. M. , Duncan Susan E.
Published: September 2021

Objective

This study was undertaken to investigate the trends and mechanisms of epilepsy‐related deaths in Scotland, highlighting the proportion that were potentially avoidable.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational data‐linkage study of administrative data from 2009–2016. We linked nationwide data encompassing mortality records, hospital admissions, outpatient attendance, antiepileptic drug (AED) prescriptions, and regional primary care attendances. Adults (aged ≥16 years) suffering epilepsy‐related death were identified for study using International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision coding combined with AED prescriptions. We reported epilepsy‐related mortality rate (MR), age‐specific mortality ratios, multiple cause‐of‐death frequencies, and the proportion of potentially avoidable deaths (identified as those with an underlying cause listed as avoidable by the Office for National Statistics).

Results

A total of 1921 epilepsy‐related deaths were identified across Scotland; 1185 (62%) decedents were hospitalized for seizures in the years leading up to death, yet only 518 (27%) were seen in a neurology clinic during the same period. MR remained unchanged over time, ranging from 5.9 to 8.7 per 100 000 Scottish population (95% confidence interval [CI] = −.05 to .66 per 100 000 for annual change in MR). Mortality ratios were significantly increased in young adults aged 16–54 years (2.3, 95% CI = 1.8–2.8), peaking at age 16–24 years (5.3, 95% CI = 1.8–8.8). Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) constituted 30% of the 553 young adult epilepsy‐related deaths, with several other non‐SUDEP fatal mechanisms identified including aspiration pneumonia, cardiac arrest, AED or narcotic poisoning, drowning, and alcohol dependence. Seventy‐six percent of young adult epilepsy‐related deaths were potentially avoidable.

Significance

Epilepsy‐related deaths are a major public health problem in Scotland, given that they are not reducing, people are dying young, and many deaths are potentially avoidable. SUDEP is only one of several important mechanisms by which epilepsy‐related deaths are occurring in young adults. Services may need to be re‐evaluated to improve specialist referral following seizure‐related hospital admissions.
On the need for integrating cancer into the One Health perspective
Authors: M. Dujon Antoine , Brown Joel S. , Destoumieux‐Garzón Delphine , Vittecoq Marion , Hamede Rodrigo , Tasiemski Aurélie , Boutry Justine , Tissot Sophie , Alix‐Panabieres Catherine , Pujol Pascal , Renaud François , Simard Frédéric , Roche Benjamin , Ujvari Beata , Thomas Frédéric
Published: September 2021

Recent pandemics have highlighted the urgency to connect disciplines studying animal, human, and environment health, that is, the “One Health” concept. The One Health approach takes a holistic view of health, but it has largely focused on zoonotic diseases while not addressing oncogenic processes. We argue that cancers should be an additional key focus in the One Health approach based on three factors that add to the well‐documented impact of humans on the natural environment and its implications on cancer emergence. First, human activities are oncogenic to other animals, exacerbating the dynamics of oncogenesis, causing immunosuppressive disorders in wildlife with effects on host–pathogen interactions, and eventually facilitating pathogen spillovers. Second, the emergence of transmissible cancers in animal species (including humans) has the potential to accelerate biodiversity loss across ecosystems and to become pandemic. It is crucial to understand why, how, and when transmissible cancers emerge and spread. Third, translating knowledge of tumor suppressor mechanisms found across the Animal Kingdom to human health offers novel insights into cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
Commercial implementation of genomic selection in Tasmanian Atlantic salmon: Scheme evolution and validation
Authors: Verbyla Klara L. , Kube Peter D. , Evans Bradley S.
Published: September 2021

Genomic information was included for the first time in the prediction of breeding values for Atlantic salmon within the Australian Salmon Enterprises of Tasmania Pty Ltd selective breeding program in 2016. The process to realize genomic selection in the breeding program begun in 2014 with the scheme finalized and fully implemented for the first time in 2018. The high potential of within family selection to accelerate genetic gain, something not possible using the traditional pedigree‐based approach, provided the impetus for implementation. Efficient and effective genotyping platforms are essential for genomic selection. Genotype data from high density arrays revealed extensive persistence of linkage disequilibrium in the Tasmania Atlantic salmon population, resulting in high accuracies of both imputation and genomic breeding values when using imputed data. Consequently, a low‐density novel genotype‐by‐sequence assay was designed and incorporated into the scheme. Through the use of a static high‐ and dynamic low‐density genotyping platforms, an optimized genotyping scheme was devised and implemented such that all individuals in every year class are genotyped efficiently while maximizing the genetic gains and minimizing costs. The increase in the rates of genetic gain attributed to the implementation of genomic selection is significant across both the breeding programs primary and secondary traits. Substantial improvement in the ability to select parents prior to progeny testing is observed across multiple years. The resultant economic impacts for the industry are considerable based on the increases in genetic gain for traits achieved within the breeding program and the use of genomic selection for commercial production.
Recovery of horses from general anaesthesia: A systematic review (2000‐2020) of risk factors and influence of interventions during the recovery period
Authors: Loomes Kate , Louro Luís Filipe
Published: September 2021

Background

In equine anaesthesia, the recovery period is a time of considerable risk and has been the focus of prolific research. Risk factors, including age, type and duration of procedure or temperament may influence recovery quality. Unfortunately, the anaesthetist is unable to control for these factors, therefore various pharmacological interventions and recovery methods have been developed with the objective of improving recovery quality. However, no consensus among anaesthetists has been reached for many of these interventions and their implications for recovery‐related mortality and morbidity.

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review of the published evidence relating to risk factors and interventions in the recovery period which may influence recovery quality from equine general anaesthesia (GA).

Study design

A systematic evaluation of the equine veterinary literature using the GRADE framework.

Methods

A literature search was performed and studies were assessed for eligibility by both authors utilising PRISMA guidelines. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were evaluated by both authors, categorically summarised and the quality of evidence for each sub‐topic was assessed using the GRADE framework.

Results

Thirty‐nine studies were identified which directly assessed the impact of risk factors and recovery interventions on recovery quality after equine GA. There was evidence to support that peri‐anaesthetic risk factors such as anaesthesia duration, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status and surgical procedure influenced recovery quality. We also identified sufficient evidence that administration of α‐2 adrenoreceptor agonists immediately prior to recovery, improves recovery quality.

Main limitations

The validity of the results of some studies may have been compromised by missing data and small sample sizes.

Conclusions

Recovery quality is influenced by factors including: anaesthesia duration, ASA physical status and surgical procedure. Recovery quality can be improved by the administration of an α‐2 adrenoreceptor agonist immediately prior to recovery.
Extracting low dimensional representations from large size whole slide images using deep convolutional autoencoders
Authors: Çelik Yusuf , Karabatak Murat
Published: September 2021

Background and objective

Artificial intelligence‐based analysis of medical images has recently become a trendy field of study. The most significant effect on these systems to produce reliable and high‐performance results is the amount of accessed data. Although whole‐slide images (WSI), one of the current imaging techniques used in histopathology, storage costs are very expensive. Therefore, low‐dimensional visuals representing of WSIs is an essential field of study.

Methods

In this study, deep auto‐encoder‐based models are designed to create low dimensional representations for WSI. The size reduction was performed for the input images in different sizes, at the ratios of 1: 3, 1: 6, and 1: 12, respectively.

Results

Similarity index measure values were obtained as high as 0.957 and 0.938, respectively, using 128 × 128 × 3 dimensional patches in the size reduction process of 1: 3 and 1:12 on test WSI.

Conclusion

The proposed model has a structure that can be applied in compression of WSIs and secure data transfer. By using these representations, both storage costs and the high‐level hardware costs required by deep learning algorithms can be significantly reduced.
Use of Non‐Matrix Matched Reference Materials for the Accurate Analysis of Calcium Carbonate by LA‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Thompson Jennifer A. , Thompson Jay M. , Goemann Karsten , Lounejeva Elena , Cooke David R. , Danyushevsky Leonid
Published: September 2021

Advances in laser ablation inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry have improved analytical precision for mineral analysis, expanding geological interpretations from LA‐ICP‐MS results. However, with improvements in analytical precision, systematic errors from calibration can become more obvious and affect data quality. To improve the accuracy of the LA‐ICP‐MS technique, a fully quantified method is presented for the analysis of minerals with a CaCO3 matrix. An in‐house calcite sample (P‐Cal) was developed with an independently constrained composition and compared with measurement results from LA‐ICP‐MS analysis, generated using multiple spot sizes, laser fluences and calibration methods. For many elements, calibration against NIST SRM 612 as a calibration reference material and USGS GSD‐1G and USGS BCR‐2G as secondary reference materials (calibration B) provided the best accuracy for CaCO3 analysis. Ablation rates and element yield (ICP‐MS signal intensity in counts per second for a given isotope relative to the mass fraction of the respective element) in calcium carbonate closely resembles NIST SRM 612; however, the down‐hole fractionation curves of USGS BCR‐2G (basaltic glass matrix) are a better fit for carbonate. Variations in accuracy for measurements at different spot sizes are negligible compared with the other effects discussed. Additionally, ablation characteristics for powdered crystals versus large fragments produce a negligible effect on the accuracy of the results for calcium carbonate.
Academic mothers, professional identity and COVID‐19: Feminist reflections on career cycles, progression and practice
Authors: Bowyer Dorothea , Deitz Milissa , Jamison Anne , Taylor Chloe E. , Gyengesi Erika , Ross Jaime , Hammond Hollie , Ogbeide Anita Eseosa , Dune Tinashe
Published: September 2021

Based on a collection of auto‐ethnographic narratives that reflect our experiences as academic mothers at an Australian university, this paper seeks to illustrate the impact of COVID‐19 on our career cycles in order to explore alternative feminist models of progression and practice in Higher Education. Collectively, we span multiple disciplines, parenting profiles, and racial/ethnic backgrounds. Our narratives (initiated in 2019) explicate four focal points in our careers as a foundation for analyzing self‐definitions of professional identity: pre‐ and post‐maternity career break; and pre‐ and post‐COVID‐19 career. We have modeled this research on a collective feminist research practice that is generative and empowering in terms of self‐reflective models of collaborative research. Considering this practice and these narratives, we argue for a de‐centering of masculinized career cycle patterns and progression pathways both now and beyond COVID‐19. This represents both a challenge to neo‐liberal norms of academic productivity, as well as a call to radically enhance institutional gender equality policies and practice.
Evaluation of the sexual health in people living with hemophilia
Authors: Germini Federico , Chai‐Adisaksopha Chatree , Pete Drashti , Curtis Randall , Frick Neil , Nichol Michael B. , Noone Declan , O'Mahony Brian , Page David , Stonebraker Jeffrey S. , Thabane Lehana , Crowther Mark A , Skinner Mark W , Iorio Alfonso
Published: September 2021

Background

Knowledge about sexual health, difficulty with sexual activity and intimacy (sexual difficulty), in people with hemophilia is little understood.

Objectives

The objectives were to determine the prevalence of sexual difficulty in people living with hemophilia (PWH) compared to people with no bleeding disorders (PWNoBD), and to determine factors associated with it.

Methods

This was an analysis of the PROBE study. We recruited individuals who had hemophilia A or B (PWH) and PWNoBD who were 18 years old or older. We calculated proportions of participants with sexual difficulty and odds ratios (ORs) adjusted for sex and age with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

There were 2007 PWH and 1972 PWNoBD. Mean (standard deviation) age was 41 (15) years in PWH and 42 (13) years in PWNoBD. Sexual difficulty was reported in 302 (15.1%) PWH and 79 (4.0%) PWNoBD. The odds of sexual difficulty were significantly higher in PWH (OR 3.82, 95% CI 2.85, 5.11). Among PWH, older age, experiencing acute or chronic pain in the past 12 months, bleeds within the past two weeks, ≥3 spontaneous joint bleeds (past six months), limitation of range of motion of any joints, and any life‐ or limb‐threatening bleeds in the past 12 months were associated with sexual difficulty.

Conclusions

Sexual difficulty is more prevalent in people living with hemophilia and associated with markers of disease severity. Sexual health issues should be incorporated in comprehensive hemophilia care, future research, and hemophilia related health policy.