bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elite stigmatization of the unemployed: The association between framing and public attitudes
Authors: Okoroji Celestin , Gleibs Ilka H. , Jovchelovitch Sandra
Published: July 2020

This paper uses a multi‐methods approach to explore the social psychological construction of stigma towards the unemployed. Study 1a uses thematic analysis to explore frames used by political elites in speeches at U.K. national party conferences between 1996 and 2016 (n = 43); in study 1b, we track the usage of these frames in six national newspapers (n = 167,723 articles) over the same period showing an increase in the use of negative frames. Study 1c shows that these are associated with national attitudes towards welfare recipients using the British Social Attitude Survey. We find the ‘Othering’ frame is correlated with negative attitudes towards the unemployed, even when controlling for the unemployment rate. This finding supports the claim that social attitudes are related to frames produced in the political and media spheres. We provide theoretical integration between social representations theory and framing which affords development in both domains.
Risk stratification for the prediction of overall survival could assist treatment decision‐making at diagnosis of castration‐resistant prostate cancer: a multicentre collaborative study in Japan
Authors: Uchimoto Taizo , Komura Kazumasa , Fukuokaya Wataru , Kimura Takahiro , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Fujiwara Yuya , Matsunaga Tomohisa , Tsutsumi Takeshi , Tsujino Takuya , Maenosono Ryoichi , Yoshikawa Yuki , Taniguchi Kohei , Tanaka Tomohito , Uehara Hirofumi , Ibuki Naokazu , Hirano Hajime , Nomi Hayahito , Takahara Kiyoshi , Inamoto Teruo , Egawa Shin , Azuma Haruhito
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To assess whether a new risk stratification system according to predictors for overall survival (OS) at the diagnosis of metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) could determine treatment outcomes and assist in treatment decision‐making.

Patients and Methods

Two independent clinical cohorts of patients, treated with androgen signalling inhibitors (ASIs: abiraterone and enzalutamide) or docetaxel as a first‐line treatment for mCRPC, were used in this study: a derivation cohort (196 patients with mCRPC) and an external validation cohort (211 patients with mCRPC).

Results

Three independent predictors for OS, including duration of initial androgen deprivation therapy <12 months before mCRPC diagnosis, alkaline phosphatase level >350 U/dL and haemoglobin level <11 g/dL at the diagnosis of mCRPC, were defined as risk factors. Patients with zero, one and multiple risk factors were assigned to a favourable‐, intermediate‐ and poor‐risk group, respectively. The median OS values in each risk group were well separated in the derivation cohort (P < 0.001) as well as in the validation cohort (P < 0.001). Of a total of 407 patients with mCRPC, 84 were assigned to the poor‐risk group with the median OS of 12 months. In this group, a trend towards longer OS favouring docetaxel compared to ASIs as the first‐line treatment (medians of 17 and 12 months, respectively) was observed.

Conclusion

The new risk group stratification system could predict patient survival at the diagnosis of mCRPC. Given the convenience of these risk definitions, physicians may be encouraged to consider these risk groups in daily practice.
Student–Teacher Relationships and Students’ Externalizing and Internalizing Behaviors: A Cross‐Lagged Study in Secondary Education
Authors: Roorda Debora L. , Koomen Helma M.Y.
Published: July 2020

The present study examined reciprocal influences between student–teacher relationship quality and students’ externalizing and internalizing behaviors in secondary education. Our sample included 1,219 secondary school students (49.1% boys; Mage = 13.53, SD = 1.77) from seventh, eighth, tenth, and eleventh grade. Students reported about their externalizing and internalizing behaviors and the quality of the relationships (closeness, conflict) with their Dutch and math teachers at three occasions within one school year. Cross‐lagged path models showed positive reciprocal associations between conflict with the math teacher and externalizing behavior over time. For the Dutch teacher, externalizing behavior positively predicted conflict over time, but not the other way around. Externalizing behavior also negatively predicted closeness with both teachers over time.
Natural Compatibilism, Indeterminism, and Intrusive Metaphysics
Authors: Nadelhoffer Thomas , Rose David , Buckwalter Wesley , Nichols Shaun
Published: July 2020

The claim that common sense regards free will and moral responsibility as compatible with determinism has played a central role in both analytic and experimental philosophy. In this paper, we show that evidence in favor of this “natural compatibilism” is undermined by the role that indeterministic metaphysical views play in how people construe deterministic scenarios. To demonstrate this, we re‐examine two classic studies that have been used to support natural compatibilism. We find that although people give apparently compatibilist responses, this is largely explained by the fact that people import an indeterministic metaphysics into deterministic scenarios when making judgments about freedom and responsibility. We conclude that judgments based on these scenarios are not reliable evidence for natural compatibilism.
Tracheal Aspirate as an Alternative Biologic Sample for Pharmacogenomics Testing in Mechanically Ventilated Pediatric Patients
Authors: Hargreaves Katherine A. , Pratt Victoria M. , Medeiros Elizabeth B. , Lynnes Ty C. , Granfield Caitlin A. , Skaar Todd C. , Iwata‐Otsubo Aiko , Tillman Emma M.
Published: July 2020

Patients in the pediatric intensive care unit are exposed to multiple medications and are at high risk for adverse drug reactions. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing could help decrease their risk of adverse reactions. Although whole blood is preferred for PGx testing, blood volume in this population is often limited. However, for patients on mechanical ventilation, tracheal secretions are abundant, frequently suctioned, and discarded. Thus, the aim of this pilot study was to determine if tracheal aspirates could be used as a source of human genomic DNA for PGx testing. We successfully extracted DNA from tracheal secretions of all 23 patients in the study. The samples were successfully genotyped for 10 clinically actionable single nucleotide variants across 3 cytochrome P450 genes (CYP2D6, CYP2C19, and CYP3A5). Using DNA from whole blood samples in 11 of the patients, we confirmed the accuracy of the genotyping with 100% concordance. Therefore, our results support the use of tracheal aspirates from mechanically ventilated children as an adequate biospecimen for clinical genetic testing.
Remote Digital Monitoring for Medical Product Development
Authors: Izmailova Elena S. , Wagner John A. , Ammour Nadir , Amondikar Ninad , Bell‐Vlasov Andrea , Berman Steven , Bloomfield Dan , Brady Linda S. , Cai Xuemei , Calle Roberto A. , Campbell Michelle , Cerreta Francesca , Clay Ieuan , Foschini Luca , Furlong Pat , Goldel Rob , Goldsack Jennifer S. , Groenen Peter M.A. , Folarin Amos , Heemskerk Jill , Honig Peter , Hotopf Matthew , Kamphaus Tania , Karlin Daniel R. , Leptak Christopher , Liu Qi , Manji Husseini , Mather Robert J. , Menetski Joseph P. , Narayan Vaibhav A. , Papadopoulos Elektra , Patel Bakul , Patrick‐Lake Bray , Podichetty Jagdeep T. , Pratap Abhishek , Servais Laurent , Stephenson Diane , Tenaerts Pam , Tromberg Bruce J. , Usdin Steve , Vasudevan Srikanth , Zipunnikov Vadim , Hoffmann Steven C.
Published: July 2020

The use of digital health products has gained considerable interest as a new way to improve therapeutic research and development. Although these products are being adopted by various industries and stakeholders, their incorporation in clinical trials has been slow due to a disconnect between the promises of digital products and potential risks in using these new technologies in the absence of regulatory support. The Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) Biomarkers Consortium hosted a public workshop to address challenges and opportunities in this field. Important characteristics of tool development were addressed in a series of presentations, case studies, and open panel sessions. The workshop participants endorsed the usefulness of an evidentiary criteria framework, highlighted the importance of early patient engagement, and emphasized the potential impact of digital monitoring tools and precompetitive collaborations. Concerns were expressed about the lack of real‐life validation examples and the limitations of legacy standards used as a benchmark for novel tool development and validation. Participants recognized the need for novel analytical and statistical approaches to accommodate analyses of these novel data types. Future directions are to harmonize definitions to build common methodologies and foster multidisciplinary collaborations; to develop approaches toward integrating digital monitoring data with the totality of the data in clinical trials, and to continue an open dialog in the community. There was a consensus that all these efforts combined may create a paradigm shift of how clinical trials are planned, conducted, and results brought to regulatory reviews.
NovelLRRFIP2‐RAF1fusion identified in an acral melanoma: A review of the literature on melanocytic proliferations withRAF1fusions and the potential therapeutic implications
Authors: LeBlanc Robert E. , Lefferts Joel A. , Baker Michael L. , Linos Konstantinos D.
Published: July 2020

A small subset of cutaneous melanomas harbor oncogenic gene fusions, which could potentially serve as therapeutic targets for patients with advanced disease as novel therapies are developed. Fusions involvingRAF1are exceedingly rare in melanocytic neoplasms, occurring in less than 1% of melanomas, and usually arise in tumors that are wild type forBRAF,NRAS, andNF1. We describe herein a case of acral melanoma with two satellite metastases and sentinel lymph node involvement. The melanoma had a concomitantKITvariant andLRRFIP2‐RAF1fusion. This constellation of molecular findings has not been reported previously in melanoma. We review the existing literature on melanocytic neoplasms withRAF1fusions and discuss the potential clinical implications of this genetic event.
Spirit and truth: Reckoning with the crises of Covid‐19 for the Church
Authors: Evener Vincent
Published: July 2020

The Covid‐19 pandemic forces North American churches to reckon with long‐standing crises and questions surrounding online community, access to worship, decline in membership, the struggle of small congregations, and the reality of our global communion. This article describes a response grounded in faith defined as confidence in our liberation from pride and despair through Jesus Christ. There is need for clarity of doctrine and spiritual courage to fulfill the church's twofold mission to sustain and grow the body of Christ; both these tasks require courage to approach and speak from the Gospel in ever‐new contexts and ages.
Effect of cilostazol on carotid plaque volume measured by three‐dimensional ultrasonography in patients with type 2 diabetes: The FANCY study
Authors: Lee Dong‐Hwa , Chun Eun Ju , Moon Ji Hye , Yun Han Mi , Lim Soo
Published: July 2020

Aims

To conduct a prospective randomized study to evaluate cilostazol, a phosphodiesterase 3 inhibitor, and compare it with aspirin for the prevention of the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods

Fifty patients with T2D and carotid atherosclerotic plaques were randomly assigned to either a 200 mg/d cilostazol (CTZ) group or a 100 mg/d aspirin (ASA) group for 6 months. The primary endpoint was change in plaque volume measured by carotid three‐dimensional ultrasonography. The secondary endpoints were changes in carotid intima–media thickness (IMT) and endothelial function, assessed by laser Doppler.

Results

Twenty‐four patients in the CTZ group and 23 in the ASA group were included in the final analysis. The mean ± SD age of male (n = 20) and female (n = 16) patients was 62.2 and 59.1 years, respectively. The total plaque volume was slightly decreased in the CTZ group (from 183.8 ± 52.5 to 181.5 ± 54.0 mm3; P = .567), but significantly increased in the ASA group (from 112.9 ± 21.2 to 128.5 ± 23.3 mm3; P = .043). A significant regression in the maximum IMT was observed only in the CTZ group (right: from 2.19 ± 0.17 to 1.96 ± 0.12 mm; left: from 2.02 ± 0.20 to 1.72 ± 0.19 mm). The CTZ group exhibited an increase in HDL cholesterol and a decrease in triglycerides and liver enzymes.

Conclusions

Cilostazol treatment for 6 months significantly attenuated the progression of carotid plaque compared with aspirin in patients with T2D (NCT03248401).
Efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in older patients with type 2 diabetes: A pooled analysis of phase III studies
Authors: Pratley Richard , Dagogo‐Jack Samuel , Charbonnel Bernard , Patel Shrita , Hickman Anne , Liu Jie , Tarasenko Lisa , Pong Annpey , Ellison Misoo C. , Huyck Susan , Gantz Ira , Terra Steven G.
Published: July 2020

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in older patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods

This is a post hoc analysis of patients with T2D aged less than 65 years and those aged 65 years or older who participated in randomized, double‐blind, phase III studies of ertugliflozin. Efficacy was evaluated in a pooled analysis of three placebo‐controlled studies (ertugliflozin monotherapy and add‐on therapy). Safety was evaluated in a pooled analysis of seven placebo‐ and active‐controlled studies (including those used for efficacy). Least‐squares mean change from baseline was calculated for HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight (BW) and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Safety evaluation included overall and prespecified adverse events (AEs).

Results

In participants aged less than 65 years, the placebo‐adjusted mean changes from baseline in HbA1c, BW and SBP with ertugliflozin 5 and 15 mg at week 26 were −0.9% and −1.0%, −1.9 and −1.8 kg, and −3.7 and −3.6 mmHg, respectively; in participants aged 65 years or older they were −0.6% and −0.8%, −1.9 and −2.2 kg, and −2.7 and −3.4 mmHg, respectively. The incidences of AEs, serious AEs, discontinuations and deaths in participants aged less than 65 years and those aged 65 years or older were generally similar across the treatment groups. In patients aged 65 years or older the incidences of volume depletion AEs and genital mycotic infection were higher with ertugliflozin than with non‐ertugliflozin.

Conclusions

Ertugliflozin improved glycaemic control, BW and SBP in younger and older individuals with T2D and was generally well tolerated in both groups.
Losing the thread: a response to Robert Allen†
Authors: Humphries Jane , Schneider Benjamin
Published: July 2020

In an earlier article we used archival and printed primary sources to construct the first long‐run wage series for hand spinning in early modern Britain. This evidence challenged Robert Allen's claim that spinners were part of the ‘high wage economy’, which he sees as motivating invention, innovation, and mechanization in the spinning section of the textile industry. We respond to Allen's subsequent criticism of our argument, sources, and methods, and his presentation of alternative evidence. Allen contends that we have understated both the earnings and associated productivity of hand spinners by focusing on part‐time and low‐quality workers. His rejoinder rests on an ahistorical account of spinners’ work and similarly weak evidence on wages as did his initial claims. Our augmented version of the spinners’ wages dataset confirms our original findings. Spinners’ wages were low even compared with other women workers, and neither wages nor the piece rates that determined unit labour costs followed a trajectory that could explain the invention and spread of the spinning jenny.
Never Let a Crisis Go to Waste: Large‐Scale Assessment and the Response to COVID‐19
Authors: Camara Wayne
Published: July 2020

In early spring 2020 the vast majority of US colleges and schools closed for the year due to COVID‐19 with no clear direction on when or how these institutions will reopen for in‐person instruction. School closures and the associated health concerns haulted large scale admissions testing and required alternative models such as remote proctoring at home, additional flexibility in test sites and administrative conditions, and additional testing dates for the fall. It is clear that access to admissions testing has been greatly reduced despite these efforts resulting in extended deadlines in graduate admissions and the wide‐scale adoption of test‐optional polcies in undergraduate admissions. This paper traces the efforts undertaken by admissions testing programs to adapt to COVID‐19 and the measurement issues which emerge from these efforts.
Hypomimia in Parkinson’s disease: an axial sign responsive to levodopa
Authors: Ricciardi L. , De Angelis A. , Marsili L. , Faiman I. , Pradhan P. , Pereira E. A. , Edwards M. J. , Morgante F. , Bologna M.
Published: July 2020

Background and purpose

Hypomimia is a prominent clinical feature in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD), but it remains under‐investigated. We aimed to examine the clinical correlates of hypomimia in PD and to determine whether this is a levodopa‐responsive sign.

Methods

We included 89 people with PD. Hypomimia was assessed from digital video recordings by movement disorder specialists. Clinical evaluation included use of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III (UPDRS‐III), and assessment of motor and non‐motor symptoms using standardized clinical scales. The relationships between hypomimia and other clinical data were analysed using Mann–Whitney U‐tests and regression analysis.

Results

Hypomimia occurred in up to 70% of patients with PD. Patients with hypomimia had worse UPDRS‐III 'off‐medication' scores, mainly driven by bradykinesia and rigidity subscores. Patients with hypomimia also had worse apathy than patients without hypomimia. Finally, we found that hypomimia was levodopa‐responsive and its improvement mirrored the change by levodopa in axial motor symptoms.

Conclusion

Our study provides novel information regarding the clinical correlates of hypomimia in people with PD. A better understanding of hypomimia may be relevant for improving treatment and quality of life in PD.
Common set of weights in data envelopment analysis under prospect theory
Authors: Yu Yu , Zhu Weiwei , Shi Qinfen , Zhuang Shangwen
Published: July 2020

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is a data‐driven tool for performance evaluation, measuring decision‐making units (DMUs) and designating them with specific weightings. The standard DEA model typically sets up that decision‐makers (DMs) are wholly rational to select the most favourable weights to obtain the maximum performance score, but does not take into account their attitude toward risk during the assessment. The prospect theory generally matches humans' psychological behaviours. Thus, our study captures the non‐rational behaviours of DMs, performing under risk scenarios, in order to construct a novel common‐weights DEA model that maximizes the total prospect value, which can vary more steeply for losses than for gains, hence obtaining a more realistic common weight scheme. Our proposed model not only generates DMUs, with higher total prospect values, but also greater degrees of satisfaction. The current study shows that the prospect theory can be aptly extended to the DEA research area, supplying a proper guideline for future DEA research.
Complex spatial networks: Theory and geospatial applications
Authors: Anderson Taylor , Dragićević Suzana
Published: July 2020

Complex systems modeling approaches offer the means to examine the way in which local interactions between system components form emergent systems. Using these bottom‐up modeling approaches in combination with geographic information systems (GIS) and geospatial data, the complexity inherent to spatial phenomena including geographical, urban, ecological, or geophysical systems can be captured and represented. Scientific research in the field of network science also uses a complex systems approach to conceptualize, model, and analyze geospatial systems as networks. Despite having common characteristics, complexity, geographic information, and network sciences are not yet fully integrated. Therefore, the main objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of scientific research related to network theory and to evaluate the potential of their integration with complex systems modeling approaches originating in the field of geographic information science (GISc). This article finds that existing literature focuses on characterizing static spatial network structures to better understand the dynamics that take place on or within them. This article argues for a necessity in research advancements to explore the way in which real spatial network structures evolve in response to spatial dynamics and advocates for the integration of geographic automata systems (GAS) modeling approaches with networks to do so. The mathematical foundation for graph theory, including the measures that are used to describe networks and the theoretical graph types, are introduced. Geospatial applications of networks and graph theory are also presented. Examples of network‐based automata models are presented as avenues for future research work in evolving spatial networks as part of GISc and computational geography.
Adherence to prophylaxis in adult patients with severe haemophilia A
Authors: Bonanad Santiago , García‐Dasí María , Aznar José A. , Mingot‐Castellano María Eva , Jiménez‐Yuste Victor , Calle MªVictoria , Palma Antonio , López‐Fernández María Fernanda , Marco Pascual , Paloma María José , Fernández‐Mosteirin Nuria , Galmés Bernat , Sanabria Martín , Álvarez MªPilar
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Adherence is a cornerstone of factor VIII prophylactic treatment. Information regarding the factors with potential influence on adherence is limited, particularly in adult patients.

Aim

To assess adherence in adult patients with severe haemophilia A receiving prophylactic treatment in a real‐life setting, and investigate the factors influencing adherence.

Methods

Observational, prospective study including adult patients receiving factor VIII therapy in 15 Spanish centres. Patients recorded infusion doses on a logbook and answered various questionnaires to assess their health beliefs. Adherence rate was the percentage of infused doses over the prescribed ones. Self‐perceived adherence was assessed using the VERITAS‐Pro questionnaire, the psychometric properties of which were validated in the Spanish population. The relationship between adherence rate and treatment, clinical and demographic characteristics, health beliefs and perceived self‐efficacy was investigated.

Results

A total of 66 patients were followed up for 12 months. Mean adherence rate at the end of follow‐up was 82.5%. Most of the study patients (n = 53, 80.3%) showed a moderate‐to‐high adherence rate (>70%). The VERITAS‐Pro revealed a high perception of adherence. Multivariate analyses to predict treatment adherence identified the knee as a target joint and longer treatment duration as variables with significant (negative) influence on adherence. Adherence rate was not influenced by the patient's health beliefs or perceived self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

Most adult patients receiving factor VIII prophylactic treatment in Spain have moderate‐to‐high treatment adherence. Treatment duration and the knee as a target joint are factors with a moderate negative influence on treatment adherence.
Homogeneous distribution of fatty ester‐based active cosmetic ingredients in hydrophilic thin films by means of nanodispersion
Authors: Munnier Emilie , Al Assaad Almar , David Stephanie , Mahut Frédéric , Vayer Marylène , Van Gheluwe Louise , Yvergnaux Florent , Sinturel Christophe , Soucé Martin , Chourpa Igor , Bonnier Franck
Published: July 2020

Objective

Cosmetic films and patches are interesting forms to promote skin penetration of active ingredients as they ensure their long stay on the treated zone of the skin. Nevertheless, currently developed films and patches are most of all hydrophilic and are not adapted to the hydrophobic molecules. The aim of this study was to establish whether nanodispersion of fatty acid‐based active cosmetic ingredients (ACI) could be a manner to introduce high concentrations of those ACI in hydrophilic films.

Methods

Punica granatum seed oil hydroxyphenethyl esters (PHE) constitute a commercialized lipolytic cosmetic ingredient obtained by enzymatic conjugation of tyrosol to long‐chain fatty acids and to enhance its skin diffusion. Nanodispersions of PHE were prepared by a green emulsion‐solvent evaporation process and dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol films. Raman imaging coupled to multivariate analysis was used to study the distribution of PHE in the films.

Results

Nanodispersions of PHE combined with antioxidant vitamin E and stabilized by Pluronic® F127 were successfully prepared. The nanodispersions show a spherical shape and a hydrodynamic diameter close to 100 nm. Raman images analysis with multivariate approaches showed a very homogeneous distribution of PHE nanodispersions in the films compared to free PHE introduced as an ethanol solution.

Conclusion

Nanodispersions of hydrophobic fatty acid‐based ingredients seem to be relevant method to introduce this type of ingredient in hydrophilic film matrix. The co‐suspension with vitamin E limits their degradation in time.
Framing Syrians in Turkey: State Control and No Crisis Discourse
Authors: Sert Deniz Ş. , Danış Didem
Published: July 2020

The mass arrival of Syrian refugees and their continuing presence have triggered many new debates regarding migration in Turkey, which – as a result of its open‐door policy – now hosts the highest number of refugees in the world. Yet, when we investigate the ways political institutions and actors have framed migration, we observe, unlike in European discourses, the complete absence of the word “crisis”. In public statements by politicians, “control” emerges instead as a recurrent (albeit implicit) theme. Here, management of the refugee issue becomes a sign of state power, exercised through various mechanisms. Through analysis of state discourse on Syrians in the Turkish media, we find that crisis framing has been deliberately avoided, which we contend is a sign of an implicit “silencing” via media control. This choice of discourse reflects a clear policy to manage public reactions to the mass arrival of refugees.
Two functionally distinct subsets of IL‐17 producing γδ T cells
Authors: O’Brien Rebecca L. , Born Willi K.
Published: July 2020

The γδ T cells play an important role in both mice and humans as a source of the cytokine IL‐17, which is key for immune resistance to certain pathogens. In mice, most of these IL‐17 producers, termed γδT‐17 cells, actually comprise two distinct types: those expressing an invariant Vγ6Vδ1+ TCR and those expressing a Vγ4+ TCR. Murine γδT‐17 cells acquire an inherent bias to produce IL‐17 and other “type 17” cytokines during thymic development. The similarities and differences between the two mouse γδT‐17 types are reviewed here, and the potential implications of their differences are discussed. There is some evidence that two distinct TCR‐defined IL‐17‐producing γδ T cell subsets also exist in humans, but unlike the mouse γδT‐17 cells, these cells are probably not imprinted with an IL‐17 bias during thymic development, but rather acquire an IL‐17 bias in the periphery.
Microencapsulation of cells and molecular therapy of type 1 diabetes mellitus: The actual state and future perspectives between promise and progress
Authors: Basta Giuseppe , Montanucci Pia , Calafiore Riccardo
Published: July 2020

The history of microencapsulation of live cells started with an idea of Thomas MS Chang in 1964, thereafter applied to isolated pancreatic islets by Anthony M Sun in 1980. The original aim was to provide isolated cells with an immune‐protective shield, to prevent physical contact between the transplanted cells and the host’s immune system, with retention of the microcapsules’ biocompatibility and physical–chemical properties over time. In particular, this revolutionary approach essentially applied to islet grafts, in diabetic recipients who are not immunosuppressed, at a preclinical (rodents) and, subsequently, clinical level. Among the different chemistries potentially suitable for microencapsulation of live cells, alginic acid‐based polymers, originally proposed by Sun, proved to be superior to all others in the following decades. In fact, only alginic acid‐based microcapsules, containing allogeneic islets, ultimately entered pilot human clinical trials in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, as immuno‐selectiveness and biocompatibility of alginic acid‐hydrogels were never matched by other biopolymers. With problems related to human islet procurement coming into a sharper focus, in conjunction with technical limits of the encapsulated islet grafting procedures, new challenges are actually being pursued, with special regard to developing both new cellular systems – able to release immunomodulatory molecules and insulin itself – and new microencapsulation methods, with the use of novel polymeric formulations, under actual scrutiny. The use of embryonic and adult stem cells, within microcapsules, should address the restricted availability of cadaveric human donor‐derived islets, whereas a new generation of newly‐engineered microcapsules could better fulfill issues with graft site and long‐term retention of biopolymer properties.
Relationships between gut microbiota, plasma glucose and gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chen Ting , Zhang Yuqing , Zhang Yiyun , Shan Chunjian , Zhang Yingying , Fang Kacey , Xia Yankai , Shi Zhonghua
Published: July 2020

Aims/Introduction

To investigate the changes in the gut microbiome in the second trimester of pregnancy associated with later‐diagnosed gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and their relationship with fasting serum levels of metabolites, especially glucose.

Materials and Methods

We carried out a case–control study with 110 GDM patients and 220 healthy pregnant women who provided fecal samples for 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid sequencing in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Results

Our results showed that GDM patients had lower α‐diversity that was significantly associated with glycemic traits. Principal coordinates analysis showed significantly different microbial communities, as within GDM patients, seven genera within the phylum Firmicutes and two within the phylum Actinobacteria were significantly decreased, and four genera within phylum Bacteroidetes were increased. In addition, microbiota co‐occurrence network analysis was carried out, and decreased genera within the phylum Firmicutes in GDM patients showed a significant negative correlation with oral glucose tolerance test values. Finally, microbial gene functions related to glycan biosynthesis and metabolism were found to be enriched in GDM patients.

Conclusions

Our results show the relationship between changed gut microbiota composition in the second trimester of pregnancy before the diagnosis of GDM and fasting serum levels of metabolites, which might inform the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of GDM.
In search of well‐being: Factors influencing the movement toward and away from maladaptive consumption
Authors: Boland Wendy Attaya , Martin Ingrid M. , Mason Marlys J.
Published: July 2020

Common consumption behaviors may become harmful to consumers. Maladaptive consumption is the result of an increase in frequency or amount of everyday, normal consumption (adaptive) behaviors, which may cause significant harm to consumers and society. The authors explore maladaptive behavior and investigate how important insights about maladaptive consumption may lie at the intersection of harm. Consequently, the discussion focuses on how marketers and policymakers, through their strategic approach, can both encourage and mitigate maladaptive behavior. Understanding the transition from adaptive to maladaptive behaviors, and the return to adaptive consumption patterns, is critical for marketers, consumer advocates, and policy researchers, focused on dampening overconsumption with its corresponding harm. A discussion of the implications of maladaptive consumption on consumer health and well‐being sets the foundation for rethinking marketing practice and public policy. Finally, a set of research propositions are offered for future research.
Where and how does fundamental care fit within seminal nursing theories: A narrative review and synthesis of key nursing concepts
Authors: Mudd Alexandra , Feo Rebecca , Conroy Tiffany , Kitson Alison
Published: July 2020

Aims and objectives

To elucidate the synergies between fundamental care and seminal nursing theories.

Background

Nursing theories are often criticised for their limited clinical relevance, with the existence of a theory‐to‐practice gap widely acknowledged. Pervasive examples of poor‐quality care, particularly for people's most fundamental needs, raise questions as to whether nursing theories sufficiently prioritise fundamental care. The Fundamentals of Care Framework (hereinafter “the Framework”) represents a valid, comprehensive and evidence‐based description of fundamental care. The Framework captures the complexity and multidimensionality of fundamental care delivery, predicated on the nurse–patient relationship; integration of physical, psychosocial and relational needs; and a supportive context. Despite strong face validity, the Framework's alignment with seminal nursing theories remains unexplored.

Design

Narrative review.

Method

Twenty‐nine seminal nursing theories were included. Categories for analysis were developed inductively and deductively, focusing on the themes of relationship, integration of care, context and the theories’ ease of use. Results are reported in accordance with PRISMA‐ScR guidelines.

Results

Though relationship, integration of care and context and were features shared across a number of nursing theories, no single theory depicts these collectively to the same extent as the Framework. In particular, integration of physical, psychosocial and relational aspects of care was found to be poorly described in the theories.

Conclusion

Failure to account for integration of care means that nursing theories continue to conceptualise fundamental care as a series of discrete tasks. To ensure relevance at the point of care, future nursing theories must accurately reflect the complexities of fundamental care delivery, specifically the need to integrate multiple care needs simultaneously, alongside being straightforward to apply in practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Bridging the theory‐to‐practice gap requires a nursing discourse that is relevant at the point of care. We provide suggestions for how future nursing theories can bridge this gap.
Effect of the p38MAPKinhibitor doramapimod on the systemic inflammatory response to intravenous lipopolysaccharide in horses
Authors: Bauquier Jennifer , Tudor Elizabeth , Bailey Simon
Published: July 2020

Background

Doramapimod, a p38 MAPK inhibitor, is a potent anti‐inflammatory drug that decreases inflammatory cytokine production in equine whole blood in vitro. It may have benefits for treating systemic inflammation in horses.

Objective

To determine whether doramapimod is well tolerated when administered IV to horses, and whether it has anti‐inflammatory effects in horses in a low‐dose endotoxemia model.

Animals

Six Standardbred horses.

Methods

Tolerability study, followed by a blinded, randomized, placebo‐controlled cross‐over study. Horses were given doramapimod, and clinical and clinicopathological variables were monitored for 24 hours. Horses then were treated with doramapimod or placebo, followed by a low dose infusion of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Clinical variables (heart rate, rectal temperature, noninvasive blood pressure), leukocyte count and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) concentrations were measured at multiple time points until 6 hours post‐LPS infusion.

Results

No adverse effects or clinicopathological changes were seen in the safety study. When treated with doramapimod as compared to placebo, horses had significantly lower heart rates (P= .03), rectal temperatures (P= .03), and cytokine concentrations (P= .03 for TNF‐α and IL‐1β), and a significantly higher white blood cell count (P= .03) after LPS infusion.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Doramapimod has clinically relevant anti‐inflammatory effects in horses, likely mediated by a decrease in leukocyte activation and decrease in the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. To evaluate its potential as a novel treatment for systemic inflammatory response syndrome in horses, clinical trials will be necessary to determine its efficacy in naturally occurring disease.
On utility maximization under model uncertainty in discrete‐time markets
Authors: Rásonyi Miklós , Meireles‐Rodrigues Andrea
Published: July 2020

We study the problem of maximizing terminal utility for an agent facing model uncertainty, in a frictionless discrete‐time market with one safe asset and finitely many risky assets. We show that an optimal investment strategy exists if the utility function, defined either on the positive real line or on the whole real line, is bounded from above. We further find that the boundedness assumption can be dropped, provided that we impose suitable integrability conditions, related to some strengthened form of no‐arbitrage. These results are obtained in an alternative framework for model uncertainty, where all possible dynamics of the stock prices are represented by a collection of stochastic processes on the same filtered probability space, rather than by a family of probability measures.
Therapeutic potential of neurogenesis and melatonin regulation in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Mihardja Mazel , Roy Jaydeep , Wong Kan Yin , Aquili Luca , Heng Boon Chin , Chan Ying‐Shing , Fung Man Lung , Lim Lee Wei
Published: July 2020

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age‐related neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the hallmark pathologies of amyloid‐beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Symptoms of this devastating disease include behavioral changes and deterioration of higher cognitive functions. Impairment of neurogenesis has also been shown to occur in AD, which adversely impacts new neuronal cell growth, differentiation, and survival. This impairment possibly results from the cumulative effects of the various pathologies of AD. Preclinical studies have suggested that the administration of melatonin—the pineal hormone primarily responsible for the regulation of the circadian rhythm—targets the effects of AD pathologies and improves cognitive impairment. It is postulated that by mitigating the effect of these pathologies, melatonin can also rescue neurogenesis impairment. This review aims to explore the effect of AD pathologies on neurogenesis, as well as the mechanisms by which melatonin is able to ameliorate AD pathologies to potentially promote neurogenesis.
Prevalence of complicated grief and related factors in elderly individuals in Sabzevar City, Iran
Authors: Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Alizadeh Azam , Bidaki Reza , Jambarsang Sara , Hosseini‐Sharifabad Mahdieh
Published: July 2020

Aim

Although often undiagnosed and untreated, prolonged grief and its conversion to complicated grief (CG) can lead to functional impairment. Given the impact of CG on mortality and quality of life in elderly individuals, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of CG and its related factors among the elderly in the city of Sabzevar in Iran.

Methods

The subjects of this cross‐sectional study were elderly individuals aged 60 years and older who lived Sabzevar in 2019. Participants were randomly selected in two stages. First, the grief experience of 823 elderly individuals was investigated. Second, the 247 individuals who met the inclusion criteria and had experienced grief were assessed for CG. Data were collected with a demographic information questionnaire, the Brief Grief Questionnaire, and the Geriatric Depression Scale.

Results

The prevalence of CG among the participants who had experienced grief was 18.6%. Significant differences in CG prevalence were observed among participants according to age, gender, marital status, occupation, and relationship to the deceased person (P < 0.05). The prevalence of CG was also significantly associated with the deceased person's age, gender, and cause of death; the participant being the deceased's primary caregiver and the participant being with the deceased at the time of death(P < 0.05). Furthermore, CG was significantly higher in people with mild or severe depression than in non‐depressed participants (P = 0.01). The odds of CG and sub‐threshold CG incidence were 2.94 times higher in women than in men and 3.64 times higher in participants with severe depression than in non‐depressed participants.

Conclusion

Complicated grief is relatively prevalent among the elderly, and it is associated with age, gender, marital status, depression status, and some variables related to the deat time of the deceased. Given the negative effects of CG on individuals and the community, appropriate planning is needed to reduce its incidence in elderly individuals who have experienced grief.
Kidney transplant recipients infected by COVID‐19: Review of the initial published experience
Authors: Moris Dimitrios , Kesseli Samuel J. , Barbas Andrew S.
Published: July 2020

There is an accumulating body of literature surrounding the impact of COVID‐19 infection in solid organ transplant recipients. The aim of this review was to summarize the existing literature specifically in kidney transplant (KTx) recipients, with an emphasis on the epidemiology, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, post‐operative outcomes, and therapeutic strategies currently employed. We identified thirty‐seven studies published between January 1, 2020, and June 10, 2020, that were included in our analysis. As is reported in the general population, there is a wide variation in COVID‐19 presentation among KTx patients, ranging from asymptomatic to life‐threatening end‐organ failure. The most common symptoms are predominantly respiratory and associated with fever. On laboratory evaluation, many patients present with lymphopenia and increased CRP, which are both associated with inferior outcomes. The majority of patients with severe symptoms have been managed with reduction of immunosuppression, including decreased doses of CNIs and withdrawal of MMF. Lastly, although there are no high‐level data supporting the use of immunomodulatory drugs, such as IL‐6 inhibitors, early experiences have suggested these drugs may improve outcomes in KTx patients with severe COVID‐19.
Electronic clinical decision support to facilitate a change in clinical practice: Small details can make or break success
Authors: Connor Joseph P. , Medow Joshua E. , Ehlenfeldt Bradley D. , Rose Anne E. , Raife Thomas
Published: July 2020

Background

The use of electronic clinical decision support (CDS) is becoming common to change historically common clinical practices considered outdated by current guidelines. Preimplementation design of CDS tools is key to their success in changing clinical behaviors. Unfortunately, there are no established protocols for CDS tool development, and CDS failure can result from even small design flaws. This paper describes an example of a design oversight and how correction resulted in CDS success.

Study Design and Methods

We performed a retrospective review of compliance with a CDS tool to encourage the use of prothrombin complex concentrate over plasma transfusion for the emergent reversal of warfarin. We identified a potential design flaw, made the necessary modifications, and repeated the compliance review.

Results

After CDS, plasma orders declined by 150 units/mo; however, 48% of orders placed for non‐warfarin coagulopathy were still for warfarin reversal. Hospital‐wide, this noncompliance was 36% and was 80% in the emergency department. By simply relocating the qualifier “NOT on warfarin” from the end to the beginning of the order, noncompliance for warfarin reversal was reduced to 5% (P < .0001 by chi‐square).

Conclusions

The successful use of electronic clinical decision support in the electronic medical record can depend on optimal design. Missing even small design elements such as the positioning of key terms within the tool can result in an ineffective CDS. Important design strategies to avoid poor performance are discussed as they relate to the CDS tool we describe.
Optimizing corneal riboflavin administration in ex vivo horse, dog, rabbit, and pig samples for use in corneal collagen cross‐linking
Authors: Zibura Ashley E. , Cullen Megan A. , Rutledge Haley , Lassalle Laura , Salmon Jacklyn H. , Gilger Brian C. , Westermeyer Hans D.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Determine optimal iontophoresis times for riboflavin delivery to the corneal stroma across different species and compare these to corneal injection.

Methods

Ex vivo horse, dog, rabbit, and pig globes were treated with riboflavin administered with either iontophoresis for 2.5‐20 minutes with or without corneal epithelium; or with purpose‐designed precise corneal injection (PCI) application with intact epithelium. Immediately following riboflavin administration, samples were harvested, frozen, and sectioned. Riboflavin penetration was imaged using fluorescence microscopy.

Results

Horse samples processed with iontophoresis without epithelium for 2.5, 5, and 7.5 minutes, and processed with intact epithelium for 20 minutes, had mean percent stromal penetration (%SPmean) of 63.4%, 93.8%, 100.0%, and 0.0% (respectively). Dog samples processed with iontophoresis without epithelium for 2.5 and 5 minutes, had %SPmean of 60.7% and 82.1% (respectively). Pig samples processed with iontophoresis for 5 minutes without and with epithelium had %SPmean of 63.3% and 35.1% (respectively). Rabbit samples processed with iontophoresis without epithelium for 2.5 and 5 minutes, had %SPmean of 81.8% and 100.0% (respectively). For all injected volumes, riboflavin was observed spanning throughout the corneal stroma, and lamellar separation was noted surrounding all sites of injection.

Conclusions

Both iontophoresis and injection via PCI needles provide efficient and effective means of riboflavin administration in ex vivo horse, dog, rabbit, and pig corneas. Epithelial debridement is required for stromal delivery of riboflavin using iontophoresis in horses. Following epithelial removal, riboflavin penetrated through the horse corneal stroma faster than all other species tested.
The Syntax of Jazz Harmony: Diatonic Tonality, Phrase Structure, and Form
Authors: Rohrmeier Martin
Published: July 2020

The regularities underlying the structure building of chord sequences, harmonic phrases, and combinations of phrases constitute a central research problem in music theory. This article proposes a formalization of Jazz harmony with a generative framework based on formal grammars, in
which syntactic structure tightly corresponds with the functional interpretation of the sequence. It assumes that chords establish nested hierarchical dependencies that are characterized by two core types: preparation and prolongation. The approach expresses diatonic harmony, embedded modulation,
borrowing, and substitution within a single grammatical framework. It is argued in the second part that the proposed framework models not only core phrase structure, but also relations between phrases and the syntactic structures underlying the main forms of Jazz standards. As a special case,
the Blues form relies heavily on the plagal derivation from the tonic and is analyzed in comparison with other analytical approaches to the Blues. The proposed theory is specified to a sufficient level of detail that it lends itself to computational implementation and empirical exploration,
and this way it makes a step towards music theory building that embraces the close links between formal, mathematical, and computational methods.