bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continental‐scale shifts in termite diversity and nesting and feeding strategies
Authors: Wijas Baptiste J. , Lim Shevaun , Cornwell William K.
Published: December 2021

Typically, termites are treated as a single guild, which ignores important internal diversity, including diverse feeding and nesting traits. These termite traits are crucial for both ecosystem‐level fluxes and trophic webs, with implications for vertebrate species. Despite their ecological importance, the large‐scale distribution of termite feeding and nesting traits and the relationship with termite diversity is largely unknown. We investigated whether functional diversity, species richness and feeding (wood, litter, grass and dung) and nesting trait (aboveground mound, belowground nest, inside tree or outside tree nest) distributions of termites were climatically controlled. To address this gap, we assembled a continental‐scale database of termite traits and occurrence in Australia and modelled termite nesting and feeding traits in response to macroclimate. Functional richness and evenness increased primarily with temperature. Australia showed multiple hotspots of termite diversity with each hotspot showing a distinct guild composition. The large‐scale distribution of nesting traits showed that aboveground nesting species were the most common nesting guild in the dry and wet tropics, while belowground nesting dominated in seasonally cold arid environments, demonstrating a strong climatic control on nesting strategy. Given their large biomass and many interactions with other species, the macroecology of termite traits may be especially important in predicting shifts in other species' distributions at continental and global scales.
Automated test design using swarm and evolutionary intelligence algorithms
Authors: Aktaş Muhammet , Yetgin Zeki , Kılıç Fatih , Sünbül Önder
Published: December 2021

The world's increasing dependence on computer‐assisted education systems has raised significant challenges about student assessment methods, such as automated test design. The exam questions should test the students' potential from various aspects, such as their intellectual and cognitive levels, which can be defined as attributes of the questions to assess student knowledge. Test design is challenging when various question attributes, such as category, learning outcomes, difficulty, and so forth, are considered with the exam constraints, such as exam difficulty and duration. In this paper, four contributions are provided to overcome test design challenges for the student assessment. First, a tool is developed to generate a synthetic question pool. Second, an objective function is designed based on the considered attributes. Third, the popular swarm and evolutionary optimization methods, namely particle swarm optimization, genetic algorithm, artificial bee colony, differential search algorithm are comparatively studied with novel methodologies applied to them. Finally, as the state of the art methods, artificial bee colony, and differential search algorithm are further modified to improve the solution of the test design. To perform the proposed algorithms, a dataset of 1000 questions is built with the proposed question attributes of the test design. Algorithms are evaluated in terms of their successes in both minimizing the objective function and running time. Additionally, Friedman's test and Wilcoxon rank‐sum statistical tests are applied to statistically compare the algorithms' performances. The results show that the improved artificial bee colony and the improved differential search provide better results than others in terms of optimization error and running time.
Seasonal to decadal spatiotemporal variations of the global ocean carbon sink
Authors: Zhang Min , Cheng Yangyan , Bao Ying , Zhao Chang , Wang Gang , Zhang Yuanling , Song Zhenya , Wu Zhaohua , Qiao Fangli
Published: December 2021

The global ocean has absorbed approximately 30% of anthropogenic CO2 since the beginning of the industrial revolution. However, the spatiotemporal evolution of this important global carbon sink varies substantially on all timescales and has not yet been well evaluated. Here, based on a reconstructed observation‐based product of surface ocean pCO2 and air–sea CO2 flux (the MPI‐SOMFFN method), we investigated seasonal to decadal spatiotemporal variations of the ocean CO2 sink during the past three decades using an adaptive data analysis method. Two predominant variations are modulated annual cycles and decadal fluctuations, which account for approximately 46% and 25% of all extracted components, respectively. Although the whole summer to non‐summer seasonal difference pattern is determined by the Southern Ocean, the non‐summer CO2 sink at mid‐latitudes in both hemispheres shows an increasing trend (a total increase of approximately 1.0 PgC during the period 1982–2019), while it is relatively stable in summer. On decadal timescales for the global ocean carbon sink, unlike the weakening decade (1990–1999) and the reinvigoration decade (2000–2009) in which the Southern Ocean plays the dominant role, the reinforcement decade (2010–2019) is mainly the result from the weakening source effect in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. Our results suggest that except for the Southern Ocean's role in the global ocean carbon sink, the strengthening non‐summer's sink at mid‐latitudes in both hemispheres and the decadal or longer timescales of equatorial Pacific Ocean dynamics should be fully considered in understanding the oceanic carbon cycle on a global scale.
Socio‐ecological drivers of multiple zoonotic hazards in highly urbanized cities
Authors: Combs Matthew A. , Kache Pallavi A. , VanAcker Meredith C. , Gregory Nichar , Plimpton Laura D. , Tufts Danielle M. , Fernandez Maria P. , Diuk‐Wasser Maria A.
Published: December 2021

The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of pathogen spillover from wildlife to human hosts, particularly in densely populated urban centers. Prevention of future zoonotic disease is contingent on informed surveillance for known and novel threats across diverse human–wildlife interfaces. Cities are a key venue for potential spillover events because of the presence of zoonotic pathogens transmitted by hosts and vectors living in close proximity to dense human settlements. Effectively identifying and managing zoonotic hazards requires understanding the socio‐ecological processes driving hazard distribution and pathogen prevalence in dynamic and heterogeneous urban landscapes. Despite increasing awareness of the human health impacts of zoonotic hazards, the integration of an eco‐epidemiological perspective into public health management plans remains limited. Here we discuss how landscape patterns, abiotic conditions, and biotic interactions influence zoonotic hazards across highly urbanized cities (HUCs) in temperate climates to promote their efficient and effective management by a multi‐sectoral coalition of public health stakeholders. We describe how to interpret both direct and indirect ecological processes, incorporate spatial scale, and evaluate networks of connectivity specific to different zoonotic hazards to promote biologically‐informed and targeted decision‐making. Using New York City, USA as a case study, we identify major zoonotic threats, apply knowledge of relevant ecological factors, and highlight opportunities and challenges for research and intervention. We aim to broaden the toolbox of urban public health stakeholders by providing ecologically‐informed, practical guidance for the evaluation and management of zoonotic hazards.
From pure academics to transformative scholars? The crisis of the “ideal academic” in a Peruvian university
Authors: Manky Omar , Saravia Sergio
Published: December 2021

In the last 2 decades, the Latin American university has embarked on a shift toward increasing scientific production, following a pattern common to much of the Global North. Few studies have analyzed how this process has had a differentiated impact on male and female scholars. In dialog with previous studies, we explore the changing nature of the “ideal academic,” accounting for its gendered character in an historically and culturally specific context. Based on a qualitative study, we describe the crisis of a model that idealized theoretical work and exclusive dedication to academia, and show that, in a broader context of feminist mobilizations, a critical discourse is emerging, stressing the need to bridge academic life and professional and political concerns. We seek to contribute to studies on changes in the Latin American academy illustrating the gendered ways through which the neoliberal university ends up being contested in the Global South.
Determinants of attrition in agricultural training programmes: Insights from the next generation cocoa youth programme in Ghana
Authors: Azumah Shaibu Baanni , Dagunga Gilbert , Zakaria Abraham , Boateng Nathaniel A. , Mensah Kwadwo B. , Boateng Ethel S.
Published: December 2021

Demographic data from Ghana suggest aging population among cocoa farmers. Based on this evidence, youth participation in the cocoa sector has become a subject of interest to stakeholders including Solidaridad. This study employed both qualitative analysis and parametric regression models that addresses observed and unobserved errors, to estimate the determinants of youth attrition from cocoa training programmes; and the possible impact of attrition on youth engagement in cocoa farming in Ghana. The empirical results reveal that younger and male youth, the unmarried, persons without mobile phone, youth who do not participate in community development initiatives, and youth without leadership roles have a higher propensity of attrition from agricultural training programmes. Attrition was also found to be significantly driven by youth not having savings, non‐business ownership, and having higher formal education. There is therefore the need for various stakeholders including COCOBOD in Ghana, to employ various mechanisms aimed at encouraging the youth to save. This could be done especially through the formation of Youth Savings and Loan Associations (YSLAs) which could reduce attrition rates from training programmes. Moreover, married and female youth should be prioritised by future cocoa‐training programmes, and encouraged to take up leadership roles in the communitiessince they have a lower probability of attrition from training programmes.
Barriers to naturalization: How dual citizenship restrictions impede full membership
Authors: Weinmann Martin
Published: December 2021

Dual citizenship restrictions are widely recognized as one of the major barriers for immigrant naturalization. Yet, we know surprisingly little about what drives migrants’ concerns about trading off their former citizenship for a new one. This paper aims at closing this gap by analysing the interrelation between dual citizenship policies and naturalization outcomes on basis of original survey data from Germany. I examine how dual citizenship restrictions as well as subjectively perceived barriers concerning acceptance and belonging regarding citizenship change drive immigrants’ naturalization decisions. Using cluster‐robust logistic regression models clustered by origin country, I find that the requirement of giving up one's original citizenship for naturalization impedes immigrants’ naturalization decisions and that perceived barriers concerning acceptance and belonging are also relevant for long‐term exclusion from full membership in the destination country.
Mitochondrial dynamics and diabetic kidney disease: Missing pieces for the puzzle of therapeutic approaches
Authors: Narongkiatikhun Phoom , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: December 2021

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common microvascular complication among diabetic patients. Once the DKD has developed, most of the patients inevitably progress to the end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). Although many new therapeutic strategies have attempted to demolish the root of the pathogenesis of DKD, the residual risks of ESRD still remained. Alteration of mitochondrial dynamics towards mitochondrial fission concurrent with the mitochondrial dysfunction is the characteristic that is usually seen in various diseases, including DKD. It has been proposed that those perturbation and their cooperative networks could be responsible for the residual risk of ESRD in DKD patients. In this review, the collective evidence of alteration in mitochondrial dynamics and their associations with the mitochondrial function from in vitro, in vivo and clinical reports of DKD are comprehensively summarized and discussed. In addition, both basic and clinical reports regarding the pharmacological interventions that showed an impact on the mitochondrial dynamics, and the correlation with the renal parameters in DKD is presented. Understanding these complex mechanisms in combination with the existing therapeutic modalities could bring a new opportunity to overcome the unresolvable problem of DKD.
Genetic variants involved in innate immunity modulate the risk of inflammatory bowel diseases in an understudied Malaysian population
Authors: Luu Laurence Don Wai , Popple Georgia , Tsang Samuel Pok Wei , Vinasco Karla , Hilmi Ida , Ng Ruey Terng , Chew Kee Seang , Wong Shin Yee , Riordan Stephen , Lee Way Seah , Mitchell Hazel M , Kaakoush Nadeem O , Castaño‐Rodríguez Natalia
Published: December 2021

Background and Aim

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions comprising two major subtypes: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The incidence of IBD is increasing in Asian countries including Malaysia. The aim of this study was to determine whether 32 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) strongly associated with IBD from genome‐wide association studies, performed mainly in Caucasian populations, are associated with IBD in a Malaysian population, correlating these findings with local and systemic inflammation.

Methods

Selected SNPs were investigated in a Malaysian cohort comprising 36 IBD patients and 75 controls using customized matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight genotyping. Local mRNA and/or systemic protein levels of IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐22, IL‐23, and TNF‐α were measured in these same subjects.

Results

ATG16L2 rs11235667 and LINC00824 rs6651252 was significantly associated with increased CD risk while IL12B rs56167332 was a significant protective factor. Three SNPs (SBNO2 rs2024092, CARD9 rs10781499, and rs17085007 between GPR12‐USP12) were significantly associated with increased UC risk while NKX2‐3 rs4409764 was a significant protective factor. After adjusting for age, gender, and ethnicity, SBNO2 rs2024092, ATG16L2 rs11235667, CARD9 rs10781499, and LINC00824 rs6651252 remained associated with IBD. Interestingly, the risk alleles of IL10 rs3024505, CARD9 rs1078149, and IL12 rs6556412 were associated with higher levels of IL‐10, IL‐22, and IL‐23 in these same subjects, respectively.

Conclusions

This study identified eight SNPs associated with IBD and/or its subtypes in the Malaysia population, significantly advancing our understanding of the genetic contribution to IBD in this understudied population. Three of these SNPs modulated relevant cytokine levels and thus, may directly contribute to IBD pathogenesis.
Market Power and Joint Ownership: Evidence from Nuclear Plants in Sweden*
Authors: Lundin Erik
Published: December 2021

I examine the anticompetitive effects of joint ownership by analyzing the operation of three Swedish nuclear plants. I formulate a model of optimal maintenance allocation given three behavioral assumptions: i) maximal collusion, where all owners’ profits on both nuclear and other output are jointly maximized; ii) Cournot competition, where the majority owners’ profits on both nuclear and other output are maximized; and iii) a divested solution, where all owners’ profits on nuclear output are maximized. Maximal collusion is only achieved during the summer, when regulatory oversight is less strict. During the winter, data is instead consistent with the divested solution.
“Being colorblind is one of the worst things”: White teachers’ attitudes and ethnic‐racial socialization in a rural elementary school
Authors: Hazelbaker Taylor , Mistry Rashmita S.
Published: December 2021

A phenomenological approach was used to explore White elementary school teachers’ attitudes about and strategies for addressing ethnicity and race in their classrooms. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with teachers (N = 12) in first, third, and fifth grade, art, and English language learning classrooms at a racially diverse, rural elementary school in the Midwest United States. Results highlighted a paradox in teachers’ attitudes and socialization. Teachers reported an appreciation for the school‐level ethnic‐racial diversity, while simultaneously endorsing a colorblind ideology. They incorporated conversations about ethnicity and race, but more frequently in reaction to holidays and student‐initiated questions and not as part of a more integrative curriculum. Additionally, teachers’ attitudes and discussions about ethnicity and race intersected with religion. Findings highlight the need for professional development to support White teachers in examining their attitudes about ethnicity, race, and religion to move away from colorblindness and engage in anti‐bias and anti‐racist education.
Comparing estimated cost‐effectiveness of micronutrient intervention programs using primary and secondary data: evidence from Cameroon
Authors: Adams Katherine P. , Luo Hanqi , Vosti Stephen A. , Kagin Justin , Ngnie‐Teta Ismael , Ndjebayi Alex , Assiene Jules Guintang , Engle‐Stone Reina
Published: December 2021

Designing a cost‐effective portfolio of micronutrient intervention programs is complex and generally undertaken with limited data. We developed the MINIMOD‐Secondary Data (MINIMOD‐SD) tool, which uses household consumption and expenditure survey data and other secondary data to estimate apparent nutrient intakes and model the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of micronutrient intervention programs. We present the SD tool methodology and results in the context of Cameroon, with a particular focus on vitamin A (VA) for children and folate for women of reproductive age (WRA). We compared the MINIMOD‐SD tool estimates with those of the full MINIMOD tool, which uses 24‐h dietary recall data. The SD tool consistently underestimated folate intake among women (median (IQR): 230 (143,352) versus 303 (244,367) μg dietary folate equivalents (DFEs)/day) and especially VA among children (141 (64,279) versus 227 (102,369)). Qualitatively, however, the two tools were generally consistent in predicted subnational patterns of micronutrient adequacy and identification of effective and cost‐effective (cost per child/WRA moving from inadequate to adequate intake) interventions. Secondary data and the MINIMOD‐SD tool can provide policymakers with information to qualitatively assess deficiency risks and identify cost‐effective interventions. However, accurately quantifying individual‐level deficiency or dietary inadequacy and intervention effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness will likely require individual‐level dietary data and biomarker measurements.
The wheat ABA receptor gene TaPYL1‐1B contributes to drought tolerance and grain yield by increasing water‐use efficiency
Authors: Mao Hude , Jian Chao , Cheng Xinxiu , Chen Bin , Mei Fangming , Li Fangfang , Zhang Yifang , Li Shumin , Du Linying , Li Tian , Hao Chenyang , Wang Xiaojing , Zhang Xueyong , Kang Zhensheng
Published: December 2021

The role of abscisic acid (ABA) receptors, PYR1/PYL/RCAR (PYLs), is well established in ABA signalling and plant drought response, but limited research has explored the regulation of wheat PYLs in this process, especially the effects of their allelic variations on drought tolerance or grain yield. Here, we found that the overexpression of a TaABFs‐regulated PYL gene, TaPYL1‐1B, exhibited higher ABA sensitivity, photosynthetic capacity and water‐use efficiency (WUE), all contributed to higher drought tolerance than that of wild‐type plants. This heightened water‐saving mechanism further increased grain yield and protected productivity during water deficit. Candidate gene association analysis revealed that a favourable allele TaPYL1‐1BIn‐442, carrying an MYB recognition site insertion in the promoter, is targeted by TaMYB70 and confers enhanced expression of TaPYL1‐1B in drought‐tolerant genotypes. More importantly, an increase in frequency of the TaPYL1‐1BIn‐442 allele over decades among modern Chinese cultivars and its association with high thousand‐kernel weight together demonstrated that it was artificially selected during wheat improvement efforts. Taken together, our findings illuminate the role of TaPYL1‐1B plays in coordinating drought tolerance and grain yield. In particular, the allelic variant TaPYL1‐1BIn‐442 substantially contributes to enhanced drought tolerance while maintaining high yield, and thus represents a valuable genetic target for engineering drought‐tolerant wheat germplasm.
Life‐threatening hypothermia in a child with primary erythromelalgia
Authors: Matarneh Bayan , Witman Patricia
Published: December 2021

Primary erythromelalgia is a rare autosomal‐dominant condition due to pathogenic variant in the SCN9A gene, characterized by childhood onset of excruciating pain, redness, and warmth of acral sites. Patients often resort to ice water baths and other cooling measures to manage the discomfort. Hypothermia is a rare complication, reported only twice previously. We report a child with primary erythromelalgia due to a confirmed pathogenic variant admitted with life‐threatening hypothermia. Although the overuse of cooling mechanisms may have contributed, we postulate that the SCN9A mutation may lead to thermodysregulation and make patients with primary erythromelalgia particularly susceptible to this complication.
Vulvar aphthous ulcer after COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Popatia Sabrina , Chiu Yvonne E.
Published: December 2021

Vulvar aphthous ulcer, also known as acute genital ulceration or Lipschutz ulcers, is an uncommon, non‐sexually acquired condition characterized by sudden onset ulcerations of the vulva in young girls and women. It is thought to represent an immunologic reaction to an infection or other source of inflammation and is commonly preceded by prodromal symptoms including fever, chills, fatigue, and malaise. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, vulvar aphthous ulcer associated with COVID‐19 infection has been reported. Here, we report a case of vulvar aphthous ulcer in response to COVID‐19 vaccination.
Presidential Responsiveness to Black Interests From Grant to Biden: The Power of the Vote, the Power of Protest
Authors: Smith Robert C.
Published: December 2021

The Biden administration is the most responsive to Black interests since the presidency of Lyndon Johnson. This article places the administration's responsiveness in historical perspective by examining presidential responsiveness to Black interests, beginning with the presidency of Ulysses Grant, and focusing on the role of Black protest and the Black vote in activating responsiveness. After a brief discussion of theories of presidential power and responsiveness to Black interests, the article examines the factors that shaped the Biden administration's responsiveness, especially the role of the Black Lives Matter protests; the substantive content of the Biden policies; and their likely effectiveness in an era of partisan polarization and in the historical context of the presidency and race reform.
Quantifying Domestic Violence in Times of Crisis: An Internet Search Activity-Based Measure for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Anderberg Dan , Rainer Helmut , Siuda Fabian
Published: December 2021

In contrast to widespread concerns that COVID-19 lockdowns have substantially increased the incidence of domestic violence, research based on police-recorded crimes or calls-for-service has typically found small and often even negligible effects. One explanation for this discrepancy is that lockdowns have left victims of domestic violence trapped in-home with their perpetrators, limiting their ability to safely report incidents to the police. To overcome this measurement problem, we propose a model-based algorithm for measuring temporal variation in domestic violence incidence using internet search activity and make precise the conditions under which this measure yields less biased estimates of domestic violence problem during periods of crisis than commonly used police-recorded crime measures. Analysing the COVID-19 lockdown in Greater London, we find a 40% increase in our internet search-based domestic violence index at the peak occurring 3–6 weeks into the lockdown, -seven to eight times larger than the increase in police-recorded crimes and much closer to the increase in helpline calls reported by victim support charities. Applying the same methodology to Los Angeles, we find strikingly similar results. We conclude that evidence based solely on police-recorded domestic violence incidents cannot reliably inform us about the scale of the domestic violence problem during crises like COVID-19.
Exploring English in TV product advertising for Dutch‐speaking children
Authors: Roberts Gillian , Zenner Eline , Rosseel Laura
Published: December 2021

In the context of global English, children are an interesting target group both from a marketing and a linguistic perspective, yet the use of English in advertising for children has so far received little research attention. Investigating English in a corpus of 3566 free morphemes (smallest independent linguistic elements) in 98 TV product advertisements aimed at Dutch‐speaking children in Flanders, Belgium, this study addresses the methodological question of what counts as ‘English’ before inquiring into: (1) the overall amount of English; (2) which parts of the adverts are susceptible to English; and (3) the types of English used. Results show 80% of the adverts contain English, but English accounts for only 13% of the total free morphemes in the adverts. 70% of adverts contain English in the product or company name, which suggests that even in advertising language, the use of English is limited to specific functions in the Dutch‐speaking Belgian context.
InclusiVaart: (Re)defining shared neighbourhood spaces
Authors: Bianchi Giovanni Maria , Croughs Ziloy , Descheemaeker Elise , Mier Abigail , Pacific Ariel Alexis , Van Der Stighelen Alicia , Van Espen Marie , Wirla Louis Jerome , Vrebos Hanne , Hannes Karin
Published: December 2021

Cities and dense urban areas are dynamic environments, always adapting to changing circumstances and shocks, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Vaartkom, a neighbourhood in Leuven, provides an interesting case-study, having undergone a drastic transformation in the past two decades,
from dilapidated industrial zone to residential quarter and cultural hot-spot. This has introduced a demographic shift, which inevitably influences the use of public and private space in the neighbourhood, creating new areas for inclusion and exclusion. Our research focuses on how the use
of public space has changed under COVID-19, and how community members envision their neighbourhood in a post-COVID context. We employed various methods – such as interviews, site visits, stakeholder and physical mapping exercises – and worked with the community to identify the
different areas of in-and exclusivity. Some findings relate to the conflicting expectations about the use and future of public space and the link between the location of public engagement and the level of inclusiveness. This illustrates the magnitude and consciousness of the effort required
to be truly inclusive. Above all, our own understanding of inclusivity broadened significantly over the duration of the project, illustrating the clear advantage of using a transdisciplinary approach in research. Our findings have been summarised in a small video.
Conversaciones difíciles en medicina: el profesionalismo y humanismo en el arte de comunicar malas noticias
Authors: Gempeler Fritz Eduardo , Torregrosa Lilian , Silva Jose Miguel
Published: December 2021

La idea que la comunicación de un médico hacía referencia a sus “buenas maneras” o su habilidad para llevar a cabo una historia clínica, ha dado paso a una reconceptualización de esta competencia, como una habilidad clínica fundamental que se puede desarrollar y medir. La habilidad para comunicar malas noticias a pacientes y familiares no se considera hoy una competencia opcional, por el contrario, subestimar su importancia ha contribuido a la percepción creciente en los últimos años, de una medicina deshumanizada. Con el fin de apoyar a médicos, estudiantes y otros profesionales de la salud que manifiestan su inseguridad y angustia al momento de afrontar estas situaciones, se han desarrollado varias estrategias educativas y protocolos que permiten consolidar la competencia del médico en este arte.
Criptococosis endobronquial: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Calixto Núñez Camilo Andrés , Gomez Ballen Ana Maria , Cañas Arboleda Alejandra
Published: December 2021

La criptococosis pulmonar con compromiso endobronquial es una entidad rara tanto en pacientes inmunocompetentes como inmunocomprometidos. Comúnmente, se manifiesta como una lesión endobronquial y los hallazgos radiológicos pueden ser confundidos con tuberculosis o neoplasias. A continuación, se describe un caso de criptococosis endobronquial con compromiso del bronquio intermediario, en un paciente inmunocompetente que consultó por disnea y hemoptisis. La revisión de la literatura reporta 28 casos adicionales de criptococosis pulmonar con afectación endobronquial.
The Role of Predictability of Perturbation in Control of Posture: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kaewmanee Tippawan , Aruin Alexander S.
Published: December 2021

Efficient maintenance of posture depends on the ability of humans to predict consequences of a perturbation applied to their body. The purpose of this scoping review was to map the literature on the role of predictability of a body perturbation in control of posture. A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases was conducted. Inclusion criteria were studies of adults participating in experiments involving body perturbations, reported outcomes of posture and balance control, and studies published in English. Sixty-three studies were selected. The reviewed information resources included the availability of sensory information and the exposure to perturbations in different sequences of perturbation magnitudes or directions. This review revealed that people use explicit and implicit information resources for the prediction of perturbations. Explicit information consists of sensory information related to perturbation properties and timing, whereas implicit information involves learning from repetitive exposures to perturbations of the same properties.
Using game theory to thwart multistage privacy intrusions when sharing data
Authors: Wan Zhiyu , Vorobeychik Yevgeniy , Xia Weiyi , Liu Yongtai , Wooders Myrna , Guo Jia , Yin Zhijun , Clayton Ellen Wright , Kantarcioglu Murat , Malin Bradley A.
Published: December 2021

Game theory indicates that minimal edits are needed to protect personal data against attacks on anonymity.
Room-temperature single-photon emitters in silicon nitride
Authors: Senichev Alexander , Martin Zachariah O. , Peana Samuel , Sychev Demid , Xu Xiaohui , Lagutchev Alexei S. , Boltasseva Alexandra , Shalaev Vladimir M.
Published: December 2021

Bright, stable, linearly polarized, and high-purity single-photon emitters at room temperature are observed in SiN.
Damming the wood falls
Authors: Wohl Ellen , Iskin Emily P.
Published: December 2021

Human activities substantially reduced river transport of large wood with negative effects on coastal and marine environments.
Aggregation of solutes in bosonic versus fermionic quantum fluids
Authors: Feinberg Alexandra J. , Verma Deepak , O’Connell-Lopez Sean M.O. , Erukala Swetha , Tanyag Rico Mayro P. , Pang Weiwu , Saladrigas Catherine A. , Toulson Benjamin W. , Borgwardt Mario , Shivaram Niranjan , Lin Ming-Fu , Al Haddad Andre , Jäger Wolfgang , Bostedt Christoph , Walter Peter , Gessner Oliver , Vilesov Andrey F.
Published: December 2021

Clusters in
3
He and
4
He nanodroplets reveal markedly different shapes showcasing the effect of superfluidity on aggregation.
Analysing COVID-19 outcomes in the context of the 2019 Global Health Security (GHS) Index
Authors: Rose Sophie M , Paterra Michael , Isaac Christopher , Bell Jessica , Stucke Amanda , Hagens Arnold , Tyrrell Sarah , Guterbock Michael , Nuzzo Jennifer B
Published: December 2021

Introduction

The Global Health Security Index benchmarks countries’ capacities to carry out the functions necessary to prevent, detect and respond to biological threats. The COVID-19 pandemic served as an opportunity to evaluate whether the Index contained the correct array of variables that influence countries’ abilities to respond to these threats; assess additional variables that may influence preparedness; and examine how the impact of preparedness components change during public health crises.

Methods

Linear regression models were examined to determine the relationship between excess mortality per capita for the first 500 days of countries’ COVID-19 pandemic and internal Index variables, as well as external variables including social cohesion; island status; perceived corruption; elderly population size; previous epidemic experience; stringency of non-pharmaceutical interventions; and social and political polarisation.

Results

COVID-19 outcomes were significantly associated with sociodemographic, political and governance variables external to the 2019 Index: social cohesion, reduction in social polarisation and reduced perceptions of corruption were consistently correlated with reduced excess mortality throughout the pandemic. The association of other variables assessed by the Index, like epidemiological workforce robustness, changed over time. Fixed country features, including geographic connectedness, larger elderly population and lack of prior coronavirus outbreak experience were detrimental to COVID-19 outcomes. Finally, there was evidence that countries that lacked certain capacities were able to develop these over the course of the pandemic.

Conclusions

Additional sociodemographic, political and governance variables should be included in future indices to improve their ability to characterise preparedness. Fixed characteristics, while not directly addressable, are useful for establishing countries’ inherent risk profile and can motivate those at greater risk to invest in preparedness. Particular components of preparedness vary in their impact on outcomes over the course of the pandemic, which may inform resource direction during ongoing crises. Future research should seek to further characterise time-dependent impacts as additional COVID-19 outcome data become available.
Association between asthma and dry eye disease: a meta-analysis based on observational studies
Authors: Huang Qun , Zheng Yanlin , Zhang Chuantao , Wang Wanjie , Liao Tingting , Xiao Xili , Wang Jing , Wang Juan
Published: December 2021

Objective

This study aimed to systematically review the relationship between dry eye disease (DED) and asthma based on published population-based studies.

Data sources

PubMed, EMBASE and ISI Web of Science from their inception were searched up to October 2019.

Study selection

Observational studies addressing the association between asthma and DED will be eligible.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two reviewers independently conducted the data extraction and quality assessment. We used a random-effects model for all analyses. Subgroup analysis according to ethnicity was performed to test the influence of ethnicity on the association.

Main outcomes and measures

Six independent studies (a total of 45 215 patients with asthma and 232 864 control subjects) were included in this review and had an average of seven stars by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Our current findings suggest that the prevalence of DED was higher in the asthma group than in the control group (Z=7.42, p<0.00001; OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.38). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, Australian, Caucasian and Asian patients with asthma showed an increased risk of DED.
Evaluation of the implementation of information system for postdischarge with the theoretical domains framework by healthcare professionals: a multistage design with qualitative inquiry and Delphi expert discussion protocol
Authors: Wong Eliza LY , Tang KS , Dong Dong , Mo Phoenix KH , Cheung Annie WL , Lau Jack CH , Yeoh EK
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Improving discharge information dissemination may improve patients’ health literacy of self-care and health outcomes, avoid unnecessary healthcare utilisation, and reduce the healthcare cost. This study aims to use an implementation science theory guided approach to examine the beliefs and behaviours of healthcare professionals regarding postdischarge information summary (PDIS) implementation in a public inpatient setting.

Methods and analysis

A multistage study design involving qualitative inquiry and Delphi expert discussion will be used to systematically explore the perceived barriers in the four implemented hospitals and enable the full implementation of the PDIS in geriatric and medical care. The theoretical domains framework (TDF), behavioural change wheel and realistic evaluation framework will be used to guide the investigation of implementation. This study consists of three steps: (1) identifying barriers and enablers from an implementation perspective using a TDF-informed interview guide; (2) devising theory-based implementation strategy packages to facilitate the adoption and enhancement of PDIS by performing a strategy mapping exercise and (3) developing an effective implementation strategy package for scaling up PDIS in other target hospitals as well as other specialities using the Delphi expert discussion. The goal of this multistage study design is to identify the perspectives from healthcare professionals towards the PDIS implementation and explore their barriers and facilitators of the process in the pilot phase. The invited healthcare professionals would share their daily experience on providing PDIS to patient in various study hospitals with similar ward setting. The implementation of discharge intervention in a study setting through different steps to aid in the exploration and development of the modified implementation strategies for the adoption and enhancement of PDIS in the discharge process.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval for the study was obtained from the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong—New Territories East Cluster Clinical Research Ethics Committees. Results of the study would be released as a report submitted to the Health and Medical Research Fund of Food and Health Bureau of the Hong Kong Government. The result would also be published in international peer-reviewed medical journals and presented in conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2000034382.
Using a dark logic model to explore adverse effects in audit and feedback: a qualitative study of gaming in colonoscopy
Authors: Catlow Jamie , Bhardwaj-Gosling Rashmi , Sharp Linda , Rutter Matthew David , Sniehotta Falko F
Published: December 2021

Background

Audit and feedback (A&F) interventions improve patient care but may result in unintended consequences. To evaluate plausible harms and maximise benefits, theorisation using logic models can be useful. We aimed to explore the adverse effects of colonoscopy A&F using a feedback intervention theory (FIT) dark logic model before the National Endoscopy Database Automated Performance Reports to Improve Quality Outcomes Trial study.

Methods

We undertook a qualitative study exploring A&F practices in colonoscopy. Interviews were undertaken with endoscopists from six English National Health Service endoscopy centres, purposively sampled for professional background and experience. A thematic framework analysis was performed, mapping paradoxical effects and harms using FIT and the theory of planned behaviour.

Results

Data saturation was achieved on the 19th participant, with participants from nursing, surgical and medical backgrounds and a median of 7 years’ experience.

When performance was below aspirational targets participants were falsely reassured by social comparisons. Participants described confidence as a requirement for colonoscopy. Negative feedback without a plan to improve risked reducing confidence and impeding performance (cognitive interference). Unmet targets increased anxiety and prompted participants to question messages’ motives and consider gaming.

Participants described inaccurate documentation of subjective measures, including patient comfort, to achieve targets perceived as important. Participants described causing harm from persevering to complete procedures despite patient discomfort and removing insignificant polyps to improve detection rates without benefiting the patient.

Conclusion

Our dark logic model highlighted that A&F interventions may create both desired and adverse effects. Without a priori theorisation evaluations may disregard potential harms. In colonoscopy, improved patient experience measures may reduce harm. To address cognitive interference the motivation of feedback to support improvement should always be clear, with plans targeting specific behaviours and offering face-to-face support for confidence.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN11126923.
New method to measure interbreath intervals in infants for the assessment of apnoea and respiration
Authors: Adjei Tricia , Purdy Ryan , Jorge João , Adams Eleri , Buckle Miranda , Evans Fry Ria , Green Gabrielle , Patel Chetan , Rogers Richard , Slater Rebeccah , Tarassenko Lionel , Villarroel Mauricio , Hartley Caroline
Published: December 2021

Background

Respiratory disorders, including apnoea, are common in preterm infants due to their immature respiratory control compared with term-born infants. However, our inability to accurately measure respiratory rate in hospitalised infants results in unreported episodes of apnoea and an incomplete picture of respiratory activity.

Methods

We develop, validate and use a novel algorithm to identify interbreath intervals (IBIs) and apnoeas in preterm infants. In 42 preterm infants (1600 hours of recordings), we assess IBIs from the chest electrical impedance pneumograph using an adaptive amplitude threshold for the detection of breaths. The algorithm is refined by comparing its accuracy with clinically observed breaths and pauses in breathing. We develop an automated classifier to differentiate periods of true apnoea from artefactually low amplitude signal. We assess the performance of this algorithm in the detection of morphine-induced respiratory depression. Finally, we use the algorithm to investigate whether retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening alters the IBI distribution.

Results

Individual breaths were detected with a false-positive rate of 13% and a false-negative rate of 12%. The classifier identified true apnoeas with an accuracy of 93%. As expected, morphine caused a significant shift in the IBI distribution towards longer IBIs. Following ROP screening, there was a significant increase in pauses in breathing that lasted more than 10 s (t-statistic=1.82, p=0.023). This was not reflected by changes in the monitor-derived respiratory rate and no episodes of apnoea were recorded in the medical records.

Conclusions

We show that our algorithm offers an improved method for the identification of IBIs and apnoeas in preterm infants. Following ROP screening, increased respiratory instability can occur even in the absence of clinically significant apnoeas. Accurate assessment of infant respiratory activity is essential to inform clinical practice.
Extracorporeal CO2removal in acute exacerbation of COPD unresponsive to non-invasive ventilation
Authors: Azzi Mathilde , Aboab Jerome , Alviset Sophie , Ushmorova Daria , Ferreira Luis , Ioos Vincent , Memain Nathalie , Issoufaly Tazime , Lermuzeaux Mathilde , Laine Laurent , Serbouti Rita , Silva Daniel
Published: December 2021

Background

The gold-standard treatment for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (ae-COPD) is non-invasive ventilation (NIV). However, NIV failures may be observed, and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is required. Extracorporeal CO₂ removal (ECCO₂R) devices can be an alternative to intubation. The aim of the study was to assess ECCO₂R effectiveness and safety.

Methods

Patients with consecutive ae-COPD who experienced NIV failure were retrospectively assessed over two periods of time: before and after ECCO₂R device implementation in our ICU in 2015 (Xenios AG).

Results

Both groups (ECCO₂R: n=26, control group: n=25) were comparable at baseline, except for BMI, which was significantly higher in the ECCO₂R group (30 kg/m² vs 25 kg/m²). pH and PaCO₂ significantly improved in both groups. The mean time on ECCO₂R was 5.4 days versus 27 days for IMV in the control group. Four patients required IMV in the ECCO₂R group, of whom three received IMV after ECCO₂R weaning. Seven major bleeding events were observed with ECCO₂R, but only three led to premature discontinuation of ECCO₂R. Eight cases of ventilator-associated pneumonia were observed in the control group. Mean time spent in the ICU and mean hospital stay in the ECCO₂R and control groups were, respectively, 18 vs 30 days, 29 vs 49 days, and the 90-day mortality rates were 15% vs 28%.

Conclusions

ECCO₂R was associated with significant improvement of pH and PaCO₂ in patients with ae-COPD failing NIV therapy. It also led to avoiding intubation in 85% of cases, with low complication rates.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT04882410. Date of registration 12 May 2021, retrospectively registered.

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04882410.
Effect of Bisphosphonate on Hip Fracture in Patients with Osteoporosis or Osteopenia According to age: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Zhao Sichun , Zhao Wen , Du Dongpeng , Zhang Chunhao , Zhao Tao , Zheng Liwen , Jin Leiming , Gu Minghao , Xu Junfeng , Yang Zhonghua
Published: December 2021

This meta-analysis and systematic review investigated the efficacy of bisphosphonates on the incidence of hip fracture (IHF) in patients of different ages with osteoporosis or osteopenia. We searched Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Database, and PubMed from inception to January 10, 2021, for trials reporting the effects of bisphosphonates on the IHF. We included only randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. We pooled data using a random-effects meta-analysis with risk ratios (RRs) and reported 95% CIs. We also used the Cochran Q and Iβ statistics to assess the heterogeneity in the results of individual studies. The primary endpoints were the total numbers of people in the bisphosphonates and placebo groups and the numbers of IHFs during the follow-up periods. Bisphosphonates reduced the IHF with an overall effect (RR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.77; zoledronic acid: RR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.78; risedronate: RR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.59 to 0.94, and alendronate: RR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.40 to 0.95). The result of the heterogeneity assessment was Iβ=0, p=0.97. In all age groups (all ages, ≥55 years old, ≥65 years old), bisphosphonates reduced the IHF. In the ≥55 years old and ≥65 years old age groups, the RR and 95% CI were 0.63 and 0.43 to 0.93, and 0.60 and 0.44 to 0.81, respectively. Bisphosphonate reduced the IHF in the general population and all age groups (≥55 years old and ≥65 years old). Zoledronic acid, risedronate and alendronate reduced the IHF in osteoporosis or osteopenia populations. The association between bisphosphonate and the IHF does not appear to be influenced by age.