bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Outpatient Prescribing Pattern of Hyoscine-N-Butylbromidein Alkharj
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J. , Menshawy Menshawy A.
Published: January 2021

Objective: This study aims to assess the prescribing pattern of hyoscine butylbromide in out-patient department in Al Saih.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted in in Al Saih city. The data were collected from electronic records retrospectively in the outpatient setting of a public hospital.

Results: A total of 784 patients received hyoscine butylbromide during the study period. More than half of the patients were in the age level of 20-39 years (51.53%). Hyoscine-N-Butylbromide was prescribed mainly as a tablet (91.71%) followed by syrup (7.91%).Most of the prescriptions were written by the emergency department (96.17%).

Conclusion: The present study showed that hyoscine butylbromidewas commonly prescribed. It was uncommonly prescribed to elderly patients. A continuous assessment of its prescribing is required to prevent its adverse events and drug interactions.
$2.3 trillion spending bill includes COVID‐19 relief, adding $1.65 billion to SAPT BG
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: January 2021

Just before Christmas, Congress passed a $2.3 trillion spending package that included $1.4 trillion in appropriations for fiscal year 2021 and $900 billion for COVID‐19 relief (another “stimulus” bill). The appropriations bill level‐funded the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment block grant (SAPT BG) at $1.858 billion, and level‐funded the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant at $1.5 billion (this grant program includes stimulants as of last year). However, the COVID‐19 relief part of the law gave the SAPT BG an extra $1.65 billion for FY 2021.
LAC report on medical necessity requirements for SUD treatment
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: January 2021

“Medical necessity” — the phrase used by payers to encompass one fact: whether they will or won't pay for treatment. Payers usually select and apply a set of “medical necessity criteria” and use that to determine whether something is reimbursable. Obviously, something experimental or proven not to work or to be harmful shouldn't be reimbursable. Generally accepted standards of care should determine medical necessity, notes a new report from the Legal Action Center (LAC) on the uses — or misuses — of medical necessity in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Too often, however, health plans use medical necessity criteria only to restrict care and control costs, especially in SUD treatment.
Ulysses' pact or Ulysses' raft: Using pre‐analysis plans in experimental and nonexperimental research
Authors: Janzen Sarah A. , Michler Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2021

Economists have recently adopted pre‐analysis plans in response to concerns about robustness and transparency in research. The increased use of registered pre‐analysis plans has raised competing concerns that detailed plans are costly to create, overly restrictive, and limit the type of inspiration that stems from exploratory analysis. We consider these competing views of pre‐analysis plans, and make a careful distinction between the roles of pre‐analysis plans and registries, which provide a record of all planned research. We propose a flexible “packraft” pre‐analysis plan approach that offers benefits for a wide variety of experimental and nonexperimental applications in applied economics.

JEL CLASSIFICATION

A14; B41; C12; C18; C90; O10; Q00
Scaling of Eliassen‐Palm flux vectors
Authors: Jucker Martin
Published: January 2021

Eliassen‐Palm flux is one of the main diagnostics tools for wave propagation and wave‐mean flow interaction in atmospheric dynamics and in particular stratosphere‐troposphere coupling. Even though the theory has been derived in the 1960s, there is still no consensus about how to display the flux vectors in a plot. This is particularly true where both the troposphere and stratosphere are of importance. Some of the traditional methods are to scale the arrows by either pressure, the exponential of height, the square root of pressure, or even by an arbitrary factor. But the arguments for any of those methods are subjective, and they result in both different amplitudes and direction. Here, we propose an objective way of scaling EP flux vectors, in either linear or logarithmic pressure or height coordinates, which allows for a physically sound representation throughout the entire atmosphere.
Central nervous system manifestations in COVID‐19 patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nazari Shahrzad , Azari Jafari Amirhossein , Mirmoeeni Seyyedmohammadsadeq , Sadeghian Saeid , Heidari Mohammad Eghbal , Sadeghian Siavash , Assarzadegan Farhad , Puormand Seyed Mahmoud , Ebadi Hamid , Fathi Davood , Dalvand Sahar
Published: January 2021

Background

At the end of December 2019, a novel respiratory infection, initially reported in China, known as COVID‐19 initially reported in China, and later known as COVID‐19, led to a global pandemic. Despite many studies reporting respiratory infections as the primary manifestations of this illness, an increasing number of investigations have focused on the central nervous system (CNS) manifestations in COVID‐19. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the CNS presentations in COVID‐19 patients in an attempt to identify the common CNS features and provide a better overview to tackle this new pandemic.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Included studies were publications that reported the CNS features between 1 January 2020 and 20 April 2020. The data of selected studies were screened and extracted independently by four reviewers. Extracted data analyzed by using STATA statistical software. The study protocol registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020184456).

Results

Of 2,353 retrieved studies, we selected 64 studies with 11,687 patients after screening. Most of the studies were conducted in China (58 studies). The most common CNS symptom of COVID‐19 was headache (8.69%, 95%CI: 6.76%–10.82%), dizziness (5.94%, 95%CI: 3.66%–8.22%), and impaired consciousness (1.90%, 95%CI: 1.0%–2.79%).

Conclusions

The growing number of studies has reported COVID‐19, CNS presentations as remarkable manifestations that happen. Hence, understanding the CNS characteristics of COVID‐19 can help us for better diagnosis and ultimately prevention of worse outcomes.
Portal venous gas after a failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography attempt in a patient with a large hepatocellular carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Cassese Gianluca , Maione Francesco , Alagia Mariantonietta , Ambrosio Luisa , Caruso Emanuele , Chini Alessia , Cimmino Claudio , Nasto Riccardo Aurelio , Pegoraro Francesca , Giglio Mariano Cesare , De Palma Giovanni Domenico
Published: January 2021

The cause of hepatic portal vein gas (HPVG) is variable. Good knowledge of the possible causes, combined with the clinical assessment of the patient and a good quality imaging, is required to correctly identify the underlying cause of HPVG and to best predict the prognosis.
Peripheral and pulmonary effects of inorganic nitrite during exercise in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Reddy Yogesh N.V. , Stewart Glenn M. , Obokata Masaru , Koepp Katlyn E. , Borlaug Barry A.
Published: January 2021

Aims

To determine whether inorganic nitrite improves peripheral and pulmonary oxygen (O2) transport during exercise in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

Data from two invasive, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials with matched workload exercise of inhaled and intravenous sodium nitrite were pooled for this analysis (n = 51). Directly measured O2 consumption (VO2) and blood gas data were used to evaluate the effect of nitrite on skeletal muscle O2 conductance (Dm), VO2 kinetics, alveolar capillary membrane O2 conductance (DL), and O2 utilization during submaximal exercise. As compared to placebo, treatment with nitrite resulted in an improvement in Dm (+4.9 ± 6.5 vs. −0.9 ± 4.3 mL/mmHg*min, P = 0.0008) as well as VO2 kinetics measured by mean response time (−5.0 ± 6.9 vs. −0.6 ± 6.0 s, P = 0.03), with preserved O2 utilization despite increased convective O2 delivery through cardiac output (+0.4 ± 0.7 vs. −0.3 ± 0.9 L/min, P = 0.02). Nitrite improved DL (+2.5 ± 6.3 vs. −2.0 ± 9.0 mL/mmHg*min, P = 0.05) with exercise, which was associated with lower pulmonary capillary pressures (r = −0.34, P = 0.02), and reduced pulmonary dead space ventilation fraction (−0.01 ± 0.05 vs. +0.02 ± 0.05, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Sodium nitrite enhances skeletal muscle Dm during exercise as well as pulmonary O2 diffusion, optimizing O2 kinetics in tandem with increased convective O2 delivery through cardiac output augmentation. The favourable combined pulmonary, cardiac and peripheral effects of nitrite may improve exercise tolerance in people with HFpEF and requires further investigation.

Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT01932606 and NCT02262078.
Organizational and comparative institutionalism in internationalHRM: Toward an integrative research agenda
Authors: Schotter Andreas P. J. , Meyer Klaus , Wood Geoffrey
Published: January 2021

Over the past two decades, a growing body of research on human resource management (HRM) has analyzed the relationship between international HRM and institutions. This work has primarily been informed by two leading streams of theory—organizational institutionalism and comparative institutionalism. However, these two dominant streams have seen much juxtaposition, but little logical integration. Moreover, scholars have paid little attention to the dynamics of contextualization (more specifically, institutional development and evolution), which limits the relevance of extant research. In this article, we review the extant literatures and their intellectual origins and develop an integrative research agenda that emphasizes the multilevel nature of HRM and evolution under external institutional change.
Perioperative outcomes for benign hysterectomy among women with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Sheyn David , Darvish Ryan , Nayak Lalitha , Myer Sara , Claridge Caitlin , Bretschneider C. Emi
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine whether mild or moderate thrombocytopenia is associated with postoperative complications after benign hysterectomy.

Methods

A retrospective study of data from women who underwent benign hysterectomy included in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project Database. The data were stratified by normal platelet count, mild thrombocytopenia (100–149 × 103 platelets/µl), and moderate thrombocytopenia (50–99 × 103 platelets/µl). Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between mild or moderate thrombocytopenia and the main outcome measures.

Results

Moderate thrombocytopenia was associated with an increased risk of perioperative transfusion (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.96–4.21) and reoperation (aOR, 4.03; 95% CI, 1.94–17.33), but mild thrombocytopenia was not. There was an increased risk of infection among women with both mild (aOR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.12–1.69) and moderate (aOR, 2.00; 95% CI,1.23–3.22) thrombocytopenia. There was no association between either mild or moderate thrombocytopenia and readmission, prolonged hospital stay, or longer surgical time.

Conclusion

Thrombocytopenia was found to be associated with increased infectious morbidity after hysterectomy, and moderate thrombocytopenia was associated with an increased risk of perioperative transfusion and reoperation.
Correlation of maternal body mass index with umbilical artery Doppler in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction and associated outcomes
Authors: Cody Fiona , Mullers Sieglinde , Flood Karen , Unterscheider Julia , Daly Sean , Geary Michael , Kennelly Mairead , McAuliffe Fionnuala , O’Donoghue Keelin , Hunter Alyson , Morrison John , Burke Gerard , Dicker Patrick , Tully Elizabeth , Malone Fergal ,   Perinatal Ireland Research Consortium
Published: January 2021

Objective

To evaluate the correlation between umbilical artery (UA) Doppler and its feasibility across categories of maternal body mass index (BMI; calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) in the presence of fetal growth restriction (FGR).

Methods

A total of 1074 singleton pregnancies with suspected FGR on ultrasound examination between 24+0 and 36+0 weeks of pregnancy were reviewed. Evaluation of the UA Doppler was performed at 1‐ to 2‐weekly intervals. Abnormal UA Doppler findings and delivery outcomes were compared between the different maternal BMI categories.

Results

Increased UA pulsatility index (PI >95th centile) was reported in 81% of obese class II patients (BMI 35–39.9) compared with a 46% incidence in the remaining categories, normal (BMI <24.9), overweight (BMI 25–29.9), and obese class I (BMI 30–34.9) (P = 0.001). In absent or reversed end diastolic flow (AEDF/REDF) we found an increasing incidence across the BMI categories (4%–25%) (P < 0.001). Higher maternal BMI was associated with lower birthweights and higher cesarean section rates. Increasing maternal BMI did not affect successful assessment of UA Doppler.

Conclusion

There is a positive correlation between increasing maternal BMI and abnormal UA Doppler findings in FGR. Maternal BMI may be considered as an additional risk factor when evaluating UA Doppler for placental insufficiency.
Theoretical study of activation of O2 at cathode and CH3OH at anode of “CH3OH ‐O2” fuel cell using ZnC4H4 and CuC4H4 organometallic catalysts “a DFT study”
Authors: Rahnama Seyedeh Nasim , Aghaie Mehran , Noei Maziar , Aghaie Hossein
Published: January 2021

Studying the interaction of oxygen molecule with organometallic compounds as low cost catalysts have always been an interesting research subject. So, in this study, the catalytic effect of TM‐C4H4 organometallic compounds (TM is Zn or Cu) was investigated to enhance the reaction rate of “methanol‐oxygen” fuel cell using density functional theory(DFT) calculations at the B3LYP level and the basis set of 6‐31G(d). In addition, the gap energy (Eg) for each of TM‐C4H4 and the adsorption energy(Ead) of each pair of TM‐C4H4/O2 and TM‐C4H4/CH3OH were calculated. Natural bond orbital (NBO) calculations were also performed to examine the charge transfer and bond stability. The results showed that, due to the adsorption process, the bond length of O=O increased about 16 and 20%, respectively, while the C and O distance in the CH3OH was increased by 137 and 199%, respectively. These rises are fairly due to the somewhat negative charge transfer from the organometallic compound to O2 or C–O in methanol. A bond elongation increases the chemical activity and reactivity of the reactants at the anode and the cathode of the studied fuel cell. The results showed that, ZnC4H4 activates O2 and CH3OH in the “CH3OH‐O2” fuel cell reaction more than the CuC4H4 compound.
“Please don't buy!”: Consumers attitude to alternative luxury consumption
Authors: Guzzetti Alice , Crespi Roberta , Belvedere Valeria
Published: January 2021

Collaborative luxury consumption is driven both by product‐related and experience‐related motivations. The present study investigates the underlying factors that drive consumers to acquire and rent vintage and secondhand luxury products, applying a framework based on product‐related and experience‐related motivations. Findings reveal how vintage and secondhand are nurtured by anti‐consumption tendencies and recreational motives, while luxury renting is more driven by utilitarian reasons.
Direct separation and purification of α‐lactalbumin from cow milk whey by aqueous two‐phase flotation of thermo‐sensitive polymer/phosphate
Authors: Jiang Bin , Wang Linlin , Wang Meichan , Wu Shuang , Wang Xiaojing , Li Dongmei , Liu Chunhong , Feng Zhibiao , Chi Yujie
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

α‐lactalbumin (α‐La) is of great interest to the industry as a result of its excellent functional properties and nutritional value. Aqueous two‐phase flotation (ATPF) of thermo‐sensitive polymer poly (ethylene glycol‐ran‐propylene glycol) monobutyl ether (UCON) and KH2PO4 was applied to directly separate and purify α‐La from milk whey, which was purposed to simplify the production process and reduced cost of production.

RESULTS

The effect of ATPF composition and operating parameters on the flotation efficiency (E) and purity of α‐La were investigated. The optimal conditions included 2 min of premixing time, 30 mL min−1 flow velocity and 20 min of flotation time, whereas the composition conditions comprised 35.0 mL 0.18 g mL−1 phosphate solution (containing 10% (cow milk whey/salt solution, v/v) cow milk whey, 50 ppm defoamer and 2 g NaCl) and 5.0 mL of 40% (w/w) UCON solution. Under the optimal conditions, E of α‐La was 95.67 ± 1.04% and purity of α‐La was 98.78 ± 1.19%. UCON was recovered by a thermally‐induced phase separation and reused in next ATPF process without reducing E of α‐La. Purified α‐La was characterized by several key technologies. The results indicated that α‐La in cow milk whey could be directly separated and purified by the ATPF and the purity was satisfactory. Moreover, it was suggested there was no obvious structure difference between the α‐La separated by ATPF and the α‐La standard.

CONCLUSION

The present study enabled the recycling of UCON, providing an effective, economically viable and environmentally friendly approach for the separation and purification of protein. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Contrastive analysis of lipid composition and thermal and crystallization behavior of olein/stearin fractionated by novel layer melt crystallization from palm oil
Authors: Lu Chao , Qiu Shuang , Wang Xueping , He Xinyi , Dang Leping , Wang Zhanzhong
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Melt crystallization is typically recognized as a highly efficient and green method for oil fractionation. This work concentrated on novel layer melt crystallization for preparing desirable olein and stearin products from palm oil and the evaluation of fraction quality. Layer melt crystallization was performed at various temperatures and the effects on fractions were evaluated using iodine value (IV), solid fat content (SFC) and melting point. The lipid composition, thermal and crystallization properties, and phase behaviors of the final optimized fractions were determined using gas chromatography, high‐performance liquid chromatography–atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry and differential scanning calorimetry.

RESULTS

Increasing crystallization tube temperatures under the same jacket temperature increased the melting point and SFC, while decreasing the IV of the olein product. Opposite results were observed for the stearin product. Major fatty acids in fractions were determined as palmitic acid and oleic acid. 1,2‐Dioleoyl‐3‐palmitoylglycerol and 1,3‐dipalmitoyl‐2‐oleoylglycerol were identified as the main triacylglycerols in olein and stearin fractions, respectively. A critical effect of crystallization temperature on co‐crystallization of oleins and stearins was revealed. A transition from plate‐like crystal growth to spherulitic growth with spontaneous nucleation was indicated in palm oil and stearin fractions with increasing crystallization temperature. As for olein fractions, a temperature increase resulted in heterogeneous nucleation from instantaneous nucleation.

CONCLUSIONS

Novel layer melt crystallization was successfully applied and optimized for fractionating palm oil. The composition and property changes of obtained fractions were analyzed and explained at both macroscopic and microscopic levels. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
A comparison between basis functions for the efficient invasive weed optimization‐based optimization of phase‐only linear array patterns
Authors: Angeletti Piero , Berretti Lisa , Maddio Stefano , Pelosi Giuseppe , Selleri Stefano , Toso Giovanni
Published: January 2021

Synthesis of phased array antennas generating shaped patterns by exploiting phase tapering only is a challenging problem. A phase‐only tapering permits maximizing the DC to RF power efficiency and results to be particularly useful in satellite applications with stringent constraints on the available power. Such a synthesis is a highly nonlinear problem most effectively addressed via stochastic optimization techniques. In this paper several basis functions to represent the phase distribution are traded‐off and compared, within an invasive weed optimization paradigm.
A multivariate approach to investigate the NMR CPMG pulse sequence for analysing low MW species in polymers
Authors: Aiello Federica , Gerretzen Jan , Simons Marcel G. , Davies Antony N. , Dani Paulo
Published: January 2021

Detection and quantification of low molecular weight components in polymeric samples via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can be difficult due to overlapping signal caused by line broadening characteristics of polymers. A way of overcoming this problem could be the exploitation of the difference in relaxation between small molecules and macromolecular species, such as the application of a T2 filter by using the Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill (CPMG) spin‐echo pulse sequence. This technique, largely exploited in metabolomics studies, is applied here to material sciences. A Design of Experiments approach was used for evaluating the effect of different acquisition parameters (relaxation delay, echo time and number of cycles) and sample‐related ones (concentration and polymer molecular weight) on selected responses, with a particular interest in performing a reliable quantitative analysis. Polymeric samples containing small molecules were analysed by NMR with and without the application of the filter, and analysis of variance was used to identify the most influential parameters. Results indicated that increasing the polymer concentration, hence sample viscosity, further attenuates polymer signals in CPMG experiments because the T2 of those signals tends to decrease with increasing viscosity. The signal‐to‐noise ratio measured for small molecules can undergo a minimum loss when specific parameters are chosen in relation to the polymer molecular weight. Furthermore, the difference in dynamics between aliphatic and aromatic nuclei, as well as between mobile and stiff polymers, translates into different results in terms of polymer signal reduction, suggesting that the relaxation filter can also be used for obtaining information on the polymer structure.
How detrimental is coincidental correctness to coverage‐based fault detection and localization? An empirical study
Authors: Abou Assi Rawad , Masri Wes , Trad Chadi
Published: January 2021

According to the reachability–infection–propagation (RIP) model, three conditions must be satisfied for program failure to occur: (1) the defect's location must bereached, (2) the program's state must becomeinfectedand (3) the infection mustpropagateto the output.Weak coincidental correctness(orweak CC) occurs when the program produces the correct output, while condition (1) is satisfied but conditions (2) and (3) are not satisfied.Strong coincidental correctness(orstrong CC) occurs when the output is correct, while both conditions (1) and (2) are satisfied but not (3). The prevalence ofCCwas previously recognized. In addition, the potential for its negative effect on spectrum‐based fault localization (SBFL) was analytically demonstrated; however, this was not empirically validated. UsingDefects4J, this paper empirically studies the impact ofweakandstrong CCon three well‐researched coverage‐based fault detection and localization techniques, namely, test suite reduction (TSR), test case prioritization (TCP) and SBFL. Our study, which involved 52 SBFL metrics, provides the following empirical evidence. (i) The negative impact ofCCtests on TSR and TCP is very significant. In addition, cleansing theCCtests was observed to yield (a) a 100% TSR defect detection rate for all subject programs and (b) an improvement of TCP for over 92% of the subjects. (ii) The impact ofCCtests on SBFL varies widely w.r.t. the metric used. The negative impact was strong for 11 metrics, mild for 37, non‐measurable for 1 and non‐existent for 3 metrics. Interestingly, the negative impact was mild for the 9 most popular and/or most effective SBFL metrics. In addition, cleansing theCCtests resulted in the deterioration of SBFL for a considerable number of subject programs. (iii) Increasing the proportion ofCCtests has a limited impact on TSR, TCP and SBFL. Interestingly, for TSR and TCP and 11 SBFL metrics, small and large proportions ofCCtests are strongly harmful. (iv) Lastly,weakandstrong CCare equally detrimental in the context of TSR, TCP and SBFL.
From Relay Attacks to Distance-Bounding Protocols
Authors: Avoine Gildas , Boureanu Ioana , Gérault David , Hancke Gerhard P. , Lafourcade Pascal , Onete Cristina
Published: January 2021

We present the concept of relay attacks, and discuss distance-bounding schemes as the main countermeasure. We give details on relaying mechanisms, we review canonical distance-bounding protocols, as well as their threat-model (i.e., covering attacks beyond relaying) stemming from the authentication dimension in distance bounding. Advanced aspects of distance-bounding security are also covered. We conclude by presenting what we consider to be the most important challenges in distance bounding.
Experimentalist Systems in Manufacturing Multinationals: Recursivity and Continuous Learning Through Destabilization
Authors: Herrigel Gary
Published: January 2021

This chapter explores manufacturing MNC governance practices under conditions of uncertainty. It shows that organized recursivity in knowledge flow and practice (“experimentalism”) can diffuse learning and innovation throughout the MNC. Three sorts of obstacles, however, are common: hierarchical insulation, stakeholder exclusion, and inadequate empowerment resources for participants. These obstacles exist not onlyex ante, as firms attempt to construct formal experimentalist systems; they also are continuallyregeneratedby the experimentalist dynamics themselves. In order to avoid disruption of recursive flow, MNCs are developing an array of destabilization mechanisms to undermine obstacles and reconstitute the deliberative experimentalist learning process.
Herbst–multibracket appliance treatment: is there an association between lower incisor position changes and the development of labial gingival recessions?
Authors: Südwasser S. , Bock N. C. , Jost J. , Killat S. , Ruf S.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To assess a potential association between lower incisor (LI) position changes during Herbst–multibracket appliance (Herbst–MBA) treatment and the development of labial gingival recessions (LGR).

Methods

All class II patients (Department of Orthodontics, University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany) who had undergone Herbst–MBA treatment until 2015 with study models and lateral cephalograms available from before (T0) and after treatment plus ≥24 months of retention (T3) were included (n = 259). Lateral cephalograms were evaluated regarding LI position changes: iiL/ML (angle between LI long axis and mandibular plane [MP]), ii-MLPg (distance between LI incisal edge and a line perpendicular to MP through pogonion), apex-MLPg (distance between LI apex and a line perpendicular to MP through pogonion), ii-MLii (distance between LI incisal edge and MP on a line perpendicular to MP through incisal edge). Using study models the distance between the cementoenamel junction and the deepest point of the gingival margin was defined as LGR.

Results

The following cephalometric mean changes were recorded (T0–T3): iiL/ML +5.9 ± 5.76° (p = 0.929), ii-MLPg −0.2 ± 0.25 mm (p = 0.430), apex-MLPg +0.1 ± 0.32 mm (p = 0.363), ii-MLii +0.1 ± 0.36 mm (p = 0.206). The mean increase of LGR magnitude measured on the study models was 0.1 ± 0.35 mm. However, no association with the cephalometric LI position changes was found (|R| ≤ 0.2).

Conclusion

There is no association between the amount of LI position changes and the development of LGR during Herbst–MBA treatment plus retention. Nevertheless, individual predisposition or excessive treatment changes and extraordinary treatment approaches, respectively, might still lead to development of LGR.
Myeloid cells, tissue homeostasis, and anatomical barriers as innate immune effectors in arterial hypertension
Authors: Wild Johannes , Wenzel Philip
Published: January 2021

Although essential hypertension affects a large proportion of the human population and is one of the key drivers of cardiovascular mortality worldwide, we still do not have a complete understanding of its pathophysiology. More than 50 years ago, the immune system has been identified as an important part of the pathogenesis of arterial hypertension. An exceeding variety of recent publications deals with the interplay between the numerous different components of the immune system and mechanisms of arterial hypertension and has substantially contributed to our understanding of the role of immunity and inflammation in the pathogenesis of the disease. In this review, we focus on myeloid cells and anatomical barriers as particular aspects of innate immunity in arterial hypertension. Since it represents a first line of defense protecting against pathogens and maintaining tissue homeostasis, innate immunity provides many mechanistic hinge points in the area of hypertension.
On the modeling paradigm of plant root nutrient acquisition
Authors: Tang Jinyun , Riley William J.
Published: January 2021

Plant root nutrient acquisition, and to a lesser extent foliar nutrient uptake, maintain plant metabolism and strongly regulate terrestrial biogeochemistry and carbon-climate feedbacks. However, terrestrial biogeochemical models differ in their representations of plant root nutrient acquisition, leading to significantly different, and uncertain, carbon cycle and future climate projections. Here we first review biogeochemical principles and observations relevant to three essential plant root nutrient acquisition mechanisms: activity of nutrient acquiring proteins, maintenance of nutrient stoichiometry, and energy expenditure for these processes. We next examine how these mechanisms are considered in three existing modeling paradigms, and conclude by recommending the capacity-based approach, the need for observations, and necessary modeling developments of plant root nutrient acquisition to improve carbon-climate feedback projections.
Correction to: Different Approaches to Address Bullying in KiVa Schools: Adherence to Guidelines, Strategies Implemented, and Outcomes Obtained
Authors: Johander Eerika , Turunen Tiina , Garandeau Claire F. , Salmivalli Christina
Published: January 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s11121-020-01178-4
Biological Conceptualization of Race
Authors: Lee Jun-Ki , Aini Rahmi Qurota , Sya’bandari Yustika , Rusmana Ai Nurlaelasari , Ha Minsu , Shin Sein
Published: January 2021

The conception of racial categories from a biological perspective is unconsciously embedded in the individual’s cognition. This is true even among university students majoring in biology and medicine. Even though students have never learned about “race” explicitly in formal biology class, they are highly likely to implicitly construct, and hold biological concepts of race. This study investigated how Korean college students majoring in General Science Education define the concept of race and acquire a scientific conception of race. The study draws on Efstathiou (2009)’s framework of the “founded concept.” Two open-ended questions regarding race conceptualization were administered to 218 college students. Furthermore, interviews with three students were conducted to explore any biological meaning of race. The results suggest four types of conception held by students about race. These were race as a typological means of distinguishing human diversity, race as a biological concept, race as a social construct, and race as a bio-social mixture. Additionally, in-depth interviews indicated that students constructed their biological concept of race unintentionally through learning biology. There are three mediators which have a role as mediator in the transfiguration process of finding and founding race concepts in a biological context: skin color, reproductive isolation, and ethnicity. Accordingly, science teachers should carefully teach this information in order to help prevent any misunderstanding of biological racial concepts. Teaching strategies and other educational implications are discussed.
Free Logics are Cut-Free
Authors: Indrzejczak Andrzej
Published: January 2021

The paper presents a uniform proof-theoretic treatment of several kinds of free logic, including the logics of existence and definedness applied in constructive mathematics and computer science, and called here quasi-free logics. All free and quasi-free logics considered are formalised in the framework of sequent calculus, the latter for the first time. It is shown that in all cases remarkable simplifications of the starting systems are possible due to the special rule dealing with identity and existence predicate. Cut elimination is proved in a constructive way for sequent calculi adequate for all logics under consideration.
Clinical profile and contemporary management of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: results from the CHECK-HF registry
Authors: Uijl A. , Veenis J. F. , Brunner-La Rocca H. P. , van Empel V. , Linssen G. C. M. , Asselbergs F. W. , van der Lee C. , Eurlings L. W. M. , Kragten H. , Al-Windy N. Y. Y. , van der Spank A. , Koudstaal S. , Brugts J. J. , Hoes A. W.
Published: January 2021

Background

Clinical management of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) centres on treating comorbidities and is likely to vary between countries. Thus, to provide insight into the current management of HFpEF, studies from multiple countries are required. We evaluated the clinical profiles and current management of patients with HFpEF in the Netherlands.

Methods

We included 2153 patients with HFpEF (defined as a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥ 50%) from the CHECK-HF registry, which included patients from 2013 to 2016.

Results

Median age was 77 (IQR 15) years, 55% were women and the most frequent comorbidities were hypertension (51%), renal insufficiency (45%) and atrial fibrillation (AF, 38%). Patients between 65 and 80 years and those over 80 years had on average more comorbidities (up to 64% and 74%, respectively, with two or more comorbidities) than patients younger than 65 years (38% with two or more comorbidities, p-value < 0.001). Although no specific drugs are available for HFpEF, treating comorbidities is advised. Beta-blockers were most frequently prescribed (78%), followed by loop diuretics (74%), renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors (67%) and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs, 39%). Strongest predictors for loop-diuretic use were older age, higher New York Heart Association class and AF.

Conclusion

The medical HFpEF profile is determined by the underlying comorbidities, sex and age. Comorbidities are highly prevalent in HFpEF patients, especially in elderly HFpEF patients. Despite the lack of evidence, many HFpEF patients receive regular beta-blockers, RAS inhibitors and MRAs, often for the treatment of comorbidities.
Physico-chemical characteristics and therapeutic potential of Chutrun thermal springs in Shigar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan)
Authors: Farhat Naima , Hussain Shabbir , Faisal Foqia , Batool Iqra , Noreen Mafia
Published: January 2021

Current studies were performed to evaluate the physico-chemical characteristics and therapeutic potential of Chutrun thermal springs located in the North-west of Shigar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan). Thermal springs with different mineral contents have been used by people for bathing and health purposes since old timings. The mineral water of these springs contains elements like sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium as chlorides, fluorides, sulphates, phosphates and bicarbonates which may be responsible for cure of various diseases. Chutrun hot springs have 7.21–7.8 pH, 40–42° C Temperature, 300–310 ppm TDS, 3.1–6.7 ppm DO, 278–285 ppm hardness, 1.62–2.42 ppm turbidity, 250–260 ppm alkalinity, 500–516 ppm conductivity, 12–18 ppm sodium, 3.8–4.1 ppm potassium, 80–82 ppm calcium, 20 ppm magnesium, 9.6–12 ppm chlorides, 3.4–3.9 fluorides, 260–282 bicarbonates and 80–85 ppm sulphates. Absence of E.Coli and faecal coliforms indicated that waters from thermal springs are free from organic wastes contaminations. Water from thermal springs of Chutrun was unsuitable for drinking purposes due to the presence of high fluoride content and also small amount of total coliforms which may be due to the presence of environmental bacteria and non-protective measures during sampling but it was found suitable for bathing and other body contact activities.
Racial Disparity in Liver Transplantation Listing
Authors: Warren Curtis , Carpenter Anne-Marie , Neal Daniel , Andreoni Kenneth , Sarosi George , Zarrinpar Ali
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND:

Previous studies have demonstrated disparities in transplantation for women, non-Caucasians, the uninsured or publicly insured, and rural populations. We sought to correlate transplant center characteristics with patient access to the waiting list and liver transplantation.

We hypothesized that liver transplant centers vary greatly in providing equitable access to the waiting list and liver transplantation.

STUDY DESIGN:

Center-specific, adult, deceased-donor liver transplant and waitlist data for the years 2013 to 2018 were obtained from the United Network for Organ Sharing. Waitlist race/ethnicity distributions from liver transplant centers performing ≥ 250 transplants over this period (n = 109) were compared with those of their donor service area, as calculated from 5-year US Census Bureau estimates of 2017. Center-specific characteristics correlating with disparities were analyzed using a linear regression model with a log transformed outcome.

RESULTS:

Non-Hispanic Blacks (NHBs) are under-represented in liver transplant listing compared with center donation service area (88/109, 81%), whereas, non-Hispanic Whites are over-represented (65/109, 58%) (p < 0.0001). Hispanics were also under-represented on the waitlist at the majority of transplant centers (68/109, 62%) (p = 0.02). Although the racial/ethnic distribution of transplantation is more reflective of the waitlist, there is a higher than expected rate of transplantation for NHBs compared to the waitlist. Predictors of disparity in listing include percentage of transplant recipients at the center who had private insurance, racial composition of the donation service area, and the distance recipients had to travel for transplant.

CONCLUSIONS:

Non-Hispanic Blacks are listed for liver transplantation less than would be expected. Once listed, however, racial disparities in transplantation are greatly diminished. Improvements in access to adequate health insurance appear to be essential to diminishing disparities in access to this life-saving care.
Analysis of the Plasma Metabolome after Trauma, Novel Circulating Sphingolipid Signatures, and In-Hospital Outcomes
Authors: Cyr Anthony , Zhong Yanjun , Reis Steven E. , Namas Rami A. , Amoscato Andrew , Zuckerbraun Brian , Sperry Jason , Zamora Ruben , Vodovotz Yoram , Billiar Timothy R.
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND:

Trauma is the leading cause of death and disability for individuals under age 55. Many severely injured trauma patients experience complicated clinical courses despite appropriate initial therapy. We sought to identify novel circulating metabolomic signatures associated with clinical outcomes following trauma.

STUDY DESIGN:

Untargeted metabolomics and circulating plasma immune mediator analysis was performed on plasma collected during 3 post-injury time periods (<6 hours [h], 6 h–24h, day 2–day 5) in critically ill trauma patients enrolled between April 2004 and May 2013 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years, blunt mechanism, ICU admission, and expected survival ≥ 24 h. Exclusion criteria were isolated head injury, spinal cord injury, and pregnancy. Exploratory endpoints included length of stay (overall and ICU), ventilator requirements, nosocomial infection, and Marshall organ dysfunction (MOD) score. The top 50 metabolites were isolated using repeated measures ANOVA and multivariate empirical Bayesian analysis for further study.

RESULTS:

Eighty-six patients were included for analysis. Sphingolipids were enriched significantly (chi-square, p < 10-6) among the top 50 metabolites. Clustering of sphingolipid patterns identified 3 patient subclasses: nonresponders (no time-dependent change in sphingolipids, n = 41), sphingosine/sphinganine-enhanced (n = 24), and glycosphingolipid-enhanced (n = 21). Compared with the sphingolipid-enhanced subclasses, nonresponders had longer mean length of stay, more ventilator days, higher MOD scores, and higher circulating levels of proinflammatory immune mediators IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MCP1/CCL2, IP10/CXCL10, and MIG/CXCL9 (all p < 0.05), despite similar Injury Severity Scores (p = 0.12).

CONCLUSIONS:

Metabolomic analysis identified broad alterations in circulating plasma sphingolipids after blunt trauma. Circulating sphingolipid signatures and their association with both clinical outcomes and circulating inflammatory mediators suggest a possible link between sphingolipid metabolism and the immune response to trauma.
Validation of a 3D‐printed human temporal bone model for otology surgical skill training
Authors: Chien Wade W. , da Cruz Melville J. , Francis Howard W.
Published: January 2021

Hypothesis

Three‐dimensional (3D) printed temporal bones are comparable to cadaveric temporal bones as a training tool for otologic surgery.

Background

Cadaveric temporal bone dissection is an integral part of otology surgical training. Unfortunately, availability of cadaveric temporal bones is becoming much more limited and concern regarding chemical and biological risks persist. In this study, we examine the validity of 3D‐printed temporal bone model as an alternative training tool for otologic surgery.

Methods

Seventeen otolaryngology trainees participated in the study. They were asked to complete a series of otologic procedures using 3D‐printed temporal bones. A semi‐structured questionnaire was used to evaluate their dissection experience on the 3D‐printed temporal bones.

Results

Participants found that the 3D‐printed temporal bones were anatomically realistic compared to cadaveric temporal bones. They found that the 3D‐printed temporal bones were useful as a surgical training tool in general and also for specific otologic procedures. Overall, participants were enthusiastic about incorporation of 3D‐printed temporal bones in temporal bone dissection training courses and would recommend them to other trainees.

Conclusion

3D‐printed temporal bone model is a viable alternative to human cadaveric temporal bones as a teaching tool for otologic surgery.
Theory of the Spread of Epidemics and Movement Ecology of Animals
Authors: Kenkre V. M. (Nitant) , Giuggioli Luca
Published: January 2021

Exploiting powerful techniques from physics and mathematics, this book studies animal movement in ecology, with a focus on epidemic spread. Pulmonary syndrome is not only feared in epidemics of recent times, such as COVID-19, but is also characteristic of epidemics studied earlier such as Hantavirus. The Hantavirus is one of the book's central topics. Correlations between epidemic outbreaks and precipitation events like El Niño are analyzed and spatial reservoirs of infection in off-period of the epidemic, known as refugia, are studied. Predicted traveling waves of infection are successfully compared to field observations. Territoriality in scent-marking animals is presented, with parallels drawn with the theory of melting. The flocking and herding of birds and mammals are described in terms of collective excitations. For scientists interested in movement ecology and epidemic spread, this book provides effective solutions to long-standing problems.
Catullus and Roman Comedy
Authors: Polt Christopher B.
Published: January 2021

In the past century, scholars have observed a veritable full cast of characters from Roman comedy in the poetry of Catullus. Despite this growing recognition of comedy's allusive presence in Catullus' work, there has never been an extended analysis of how he engaged with this foundational Roman genre. This book sketches a more coherent picture of Catullus' use of Roman comedy and shows that individual points of contact with the theatre in his corpus are part of a larger, more sustained poetic program than has been recognized. Roman comedy, it argues, offered Catullus a common cultural vocabulary, drawn from the public stage and shared with his audience, with which to explore and convey private ideas about love, friendship, and social rivalry. It also demonstrates that Roman comedy continued to present writers after the second century BCE with a meaningful source of social, cultural, and artistic value.
Property Threats and the Politics of Anti-Statism
Authors: Ondetti Gabriel
Published: January 2021

Tax revenues have risen robustly across Latin America in recent decades, casting doubt on the region's reputation for having states too poor to finance economic and social development. However, dramatic differences persist in the magnitude of national tax burdens and public sector size, even among seemingly similar countries. This book examines the historical roots of this variation. Through in-depth case studies of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico, as well as evidence from Ecuador and Guatemala, Ondetti reveals the lasting impact of historical episodes of redistributive reform that threatened property rights. Ironically, where such episodes were most extensive, they hindered future taxation by prompting economic elites and social conservatives to mobilize politically against state intervention, forming peak business associations, rightist parties, and other formal and informal organizations that have proven to be remarkably enduring.
The Kingdom of Rus’
Authors: Raffensperger Christian
Published: January 2021

As scholarship continues to expand the idea of medieval Europe beyond 'the West,' the Rus' remain the final frontier relegated to the European periphery. The Kingdom of Rus' challenges the perception of Rus' as an eastern 'other' - advancing the idea of the Rus' as a kingdom deeply integrated with medieval Europe, through an innovative analysis of medieval titles. Examining a wide range of medieval sources, this book exposes the common practice in scholarship of referring to Rusian rulers as princes as a relic of early modern attempts to diminish the Rus'. Not only was Rus' part and parcel of medieval Europe, but in the eleventh and twelfth centuries Rus' was the largest kingdom in Christendom.
Machiavelli in Brussels
Authors: Schendelen Rinus van
Published: January 2021

Countless interest groups representing governments and civil societies try to lobby the European Union effectively in pursuit of the desired legislation, subsidies and more. This book describes the everyday practice of lobbying in Brussels, drawing on extensive research and the author's personal experience.

The objective of these interest groups is to influence the EU decision-making, of which they see themselves as a stakeholder. To the existing representative bodies such as the Parliament and the Council, they add their practice of lobbying for a desired outcome by making their interests present or represented at the EU level. In a roundabout way, they contribute to the EU integration and also to its democracy, so long as the following conditions are fulfilled.