bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Error and cognitive bias in diagnostic radiology
Authors: Tee Qiao Xin , Nambiar Mithun , Stuckey Stephen
Published: September 2021

Errors in diagnostic radiology are not infrequent. Patient harm related to these errors is however less common and may be avoided via various preventative mechanisms within the medical system including, but not limited to, multidisciplinary meetings, second opinions, subspecialty expertise and clinician experience. Failure at a number of points in the system is often required to result in patient harm. Radiologists, and in particular departmental leaders, should proactively address the known underlying root causes of diagnostic errors and cognitive biases, ensure systems are in place to promptly discover and control unmitigated root causes as they arise and ensure an unbiased ‘blameless’ or ‘just’ culture of error investigation and proces sing including the implementation of non‐punitive peer feedback and peer learning. This article provides an overview of errors in diagnostic radiology including the causes and potential ramifications and how we might reduce their frequency and impact.
The End of Global Poverty: Is the UN Sustainable Development Goal 1 (Still) Achievable?
Authors: Hoy Christopher , Sumner Andy
Published: September 2021

This paper asks whether the UN Sustainable Development Goal to end poverty is achievable in the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We discuss various estimates of the poverty impact of the pandemic. We then differentiate growth‐poverty‐inequality pathways based on empirical observations from developing countries over the last 25 years. We take the most equitable growth pathways (characterised by mean household income/consumption expenditure growth per capita with the largest falls in inequality) and least equitable growth pathways (mean household income/consumption expenditure growth per capita with the largest rises in inequality) as a basis to extrapolate potential scenarios for poverty levels in 2030. Our main finding is that the SDG to end poverty is achievable (or something close) if the impact of the pandemic on income poverty is addressed and countries are able to follow the most equitable growth pathway after the pandemic has abated. In short, the greatest poverty reduction, and greatest likelihood of attaining the SDG poverty reduction goals, will occur if economic growth is combined with inequality reduction. In other words redistribution with growth.
Arsenic sulfide reverses cisplatin resistance in non‐small cell lung cancer in vitro and in vivo through targeting PD‐L1
Authors: Tian Wei , Sun Yinping , Cheng Yuping , Ma Xiao , Du Weina , Shi Wenna , Guo Qisen
Published: September 2021

Background

Recent studies have found that programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) might be involved in chemotherapy resistance in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Arsenic sulfide (As4S4) has been recognized to have antitumor activities and enhance the cytotoxic effect of chemotherapy drugs. In this study, we aimed to verify the relationship between PD‐L1 and cisplatin (DDP) resistance and identify whether As4S4 could reverse DDP resistance through targeting PD‐L1 in NSCLC.

Methods

The effect of As4S4 and DDP on cell proliferation and apoptosis was investigated in NSCLC cell lines. The expression of p53 and PD‐L1 proteins was measured by western blotting analysis. The levels of miR‐34a‐5p, miR‐34a‐3p and PD‐L1 in cells were measured by real‐time qPCR analysis. Mouse xenograft models were established by inoculation with A549/DDP (DDP‐resistant) cells.

Results

Depletion of PD‐L1 inhibited DDP resistance in A549/DDP and H1299/DDP cells. As4S4 was capable of sensitizing A549/DDP cells to DDP by enhancing apoptosis. As4S4 upregulated p53 expression and downregulated PD‐L1 expression in A549/DDP cells. As4S4 increased miR‐34a‐5p level in A549/DDP cells. Inhibition of p53 by PFT‐α partially restored the levels of PD‐L1 and miR‐34a‐5p. Pretreatment with PFT‐α suppressed the apoptosis rate induced by cotreatment of As4S4 and DDP in A549/DDP cells. Cotreatment of DDP and As4S4 notably reduced the tumor size when compared with DDP treatment alone in vivo.

Conclusions

Upregulation of PD‐L1 was correlated with DDP resistance in NSCLC cells. Mechanistic analyses indicated that As4S4 might sensitize NSCLC cells to DDP through targeting p53/miR‐34a‐5p/PD‐L1 axis.
Do Alma Mater Ties Between the Auditor and Audit Committee Affect Audit Quality?*
Authors: Sharma Divesh S. , Singh Madhukar K. , Patel Arvind
Published: August 2021

We examine whether audit firm alma mater ties between the auditor and the audit committee (AC) are associated with significantly greater nonaudit services (NAS) provided by the auditor. We further examine whether greater NAS in the presence of such alma mater ties are associated with audit quality. Since the AC is responsible for approving and monitoring the services provided by the auditor, the presence of AC and auditor alma mater ties underscores the controversies surrounding such ties' undermining audit quality. Predicating our hypotheses on social ties theory, we find a positive association between the presence of an audit firm alumnus on the AC and NAS acquired from the alma mater auditor. We further find that this association becomes stronger as the tenure of the alumnus increases. Next, using multiple measures of audit quality, we find that, when the alumnus on the AC is associated with significantly more NAS provided by the alma mater audit firm, the quality of the audit suffers. Collectively, our results suggest that audit firm alma mater ties between the AC and auditor engender economic ties that adversely affect audit quality. Our study provides new evidence on the channels through which the quality of the audit is affected and raises important implications for the composition of the AC, auditor‐provided NAS, and client assignment to engagement partners.
Terrestrial laser scanning to reconstruct branch architecture from harvested branches
Authors: Wilkes Phil , Shenkin Alexander , Disney Mathias , Malhi Yadvinder , Bentley Lisa Patrick , Vicari Matheus Boni
Published: September 2021

Quantifying whole branch architecture is critical to understanding tree function, for example, branch surface area controls woody gas exchange. Yet, due to measurement difficulty, branch architecture of small diameter branches (e.g. <10 cm ) is modelled, subsampled or ignored. Methods that use terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) are now being widely applied to analyse tree and plot‐level tree architecture; however, resolving small diameter branches in‐situ remains a challenge.

Currently, it is suggested that accurate reconstruction of small diameter branches can only be achieved by harvest and measurement in controlled conditions. Here we present a new TLS workflow for rapid and accurate reconstruction of complete branch architecture from harvested branches. The workflow sets out scan configuration, post‐processing (including a novel reflectance filter) and fitting of quantitative structure models (QSM) to reconstruct topologically coherent branch models. This is demonstrated on 595 branches (scanned indoors to negate the impact of wind) and compared with 65 branches that were manually measured (i.e. with measuring tape and callipers).

Comparison of a suite of morphological and topological traits reveals a good agreement between TLS‐derived metrics and manual measurements where RMSE (%RMSE) for total branch length = 0.7 m (10%), volume = 0.09 L (43%), surface area = 0.04 m2 (26%) and N tips = 6.4 (35%). Scanning was faster and invariant to branch size compared with manual measurements which required significantly more personnel time. We recommend measuring a subsample of tip widths to constrain the QSM taper function as the TLS workflow tends to overestimate tip width.

The workflow presented here allows for a rapid characterisation of branch architecture from harvested branches. Increasing the number of branches analysed (e.g. many branches from a single tree or branches from many species globally) could allow for a comprehensive analysis of the ‘missing link’ between the leaves and larger diameter branches.
Combined smoking and alcohol cues: Effects on craving, drug‐seeking, and consumption
Authors: Motschman Courtney A. , Tiffany Stephen T.
Published: September 2021

Background

Alcohol and cigarettes are commonly used together, but little is known about their joint motivational impact. Cue reactivity studies have customarily examined alcohol and smoking cues in isolation, despite the potential for cues to elicit stronger motivational responses when combined. This study used a validated cue reactivity procedure (Choice Behavior Under Cued Conditions) systematically to disentangle the separate and joint effects of alcohol and cigarette cues on substance use motivation.

Methods

Participants were 110 adults (Mage = 34.0, SD = 10.8) who consumed both cigarettes and alcohol. Participants completed 40 cue reactivity trials with four in vivo cue types: water, alcohol, cigarette, and combined cigarette and alcohol. Participants rated their craving prior to receiving opportunities to spend real money to gain access to the cues. Spending larger amounts of money increased the probability that the substance(s) would be available for consumption. When granted access, participants took one cigarette puff and/or sip of the beverage. A multimethod approach assessed three key motivational indices: craving, drug‐seeking (spending, latency to access the cue), and consumption (puff duration, alcohol consumed). Effects of cue type and rates of substance use (cigarettes per day, drinks per day, relative frequency of co‐use) were assessed using hierarchical linear models.

Results

Both alcohol and smoking cues enhanced cue‐specific craving but not craving for the alternative substance. In a novel finding, combined cues elicited higher craving and greater spending than single‐drug cues. All drug cues elicited greater spending than water cues, and spending was moderated by the relative frequency of co‐use.

Conclusions

We found that combined alcohol and cigarette cues provoke more powerful craving and drug‐seeking responses and, therefore, may be more motivationally potent among individuals who use multiple substances.
The role of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (NRF2) in normal and pathological pregnancy: A systematic review
Authors: Tantengco Ourlad Alzeus G. , de Castro Silva Mariana , Shahin Hend , Bento Giovana Fernanda Cosi , Cursino Geovanna Cristofani , Cayenne Samir , da Silva Marcia Guimarães , Menon Ramkumar
Published: September 2021

Objective

A homeostatic balance between reactive oxygen species production and the antioxidant redox system is an important component of normal pregnancy. Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2–Related Factor 2 (Nrf2) preserves cellular homeostasis by enhancing the cell's innate antioxidant status to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory damage to the cell during pregnancy. Active Nrf2, in the nucleus of the cell, transactivates various antioxidant genes. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize evidence on the role of Nrf2 in various adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the role of Nrf2 in pregnancy. Articles written in English, Portuguese, and Spanish were obtained from three different databases from inception until January 2021. The titles, abstracts and full text were reviewed independently by six reviewers. The quality of the included studies was assessed using a quality assessment tool developed to assess basic science and clinical studies. Nrf2 expression (gene and protein), functional contributions, and association with APOs were assessed.

Results

A total of 747 citations were identified; 80 were retained for full review. Most studies on Nrf2 have been carried out using placental tissues and placenta‐derived cells. Limited studies have been conducted using fetal membranes, uterus, and cervix. Nuclear translocation of Nrf2 results in transactivation of antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase, hemeoxygenase‐1, and superoxide dismutase in gestational cells during pregnancy. This antioxidant response maintains cellular homeostasis during pregnancy. This promotes trophoblast cell survival and prevents cell death and abnormal angiogenesis in the placenta. Excessive and insufficient Nrf2 response may promote oxidative and reductive stress, respectively. This Nrf2 dysregulation has been associated with APOs including gestational diabetes mellitus, intrauterine growth restriction, reproductive toxicity, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.

Conclusion

Several studies have localized and reported an association between Nrf2's differential expression in reproductive tissues and the pathogenesis of APOs. However, a comprehensive functional understanding of Nrf2 in reproductive tissues is still lacking. Nrf2's activation and functions are complex, and therefore, current in vitro and in vivo studies are limited in their experimental approaches. We have identified key areas for future Nrf2 research that is needed to fill knowledge gaps.
Patients with systemic sclerosis show phenotypic and functional defects in neutrophils
Authors: Impellizzieri Daniela , Egholm Cecilie , Valaperti Alan , Distler Oliver , Boyman Onur
Published: September 2021

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multiorgan autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, vascular modification, and progressive fibrosis of the skin and several visceral organs. Innate and adaptive immune cells, including myeloid, B and T cells, are believed to be central to the pathogenesis of SSc. However, the role and functional state of neutrophil granulocytes (neutrophils) are ill‐defined in SSc.

Methods

We performed a prospective study of neutrophils freshly isolated from SSc patients and healthy donors (HD) by measuring in these neutrophils (i) functional cell surface markers, including CD16, CD62L, CD66b, CD66c, CXCR1, CXCR2, and CXCR4; (ii) cytokine‐activated intracellular signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways, such as phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3), pSTAT5, and pSTAT6; (iii) production of neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) and intracellular myeloperoxidase (MPO); and (iv) phagocytosis of bacteria by the neutrophils.

Results

Neutrophils of SSc patients expressed lower CD16 and CD62L and higher pSTAT3 and pSTAT6 compared to HD. Moreover, neutrophils of SSc patients lacked CXCR1 and CXCR2, the receptors responding to the potent neutrophil chemoattractant CXCL8. Neutrophils of SSc patients were also deficient in MPO levels, NET formation, and phagocytosis of bacteria.

Conclusions

Neutrophils of patients with SSc display several functional defects affecting cell migration, NET formation, and phagocytosis of bacteria.
Large ventral hernias: to drain… And what to drain… That is the question!
Authors: Idrees Marwan , Mare Hans , Lester Leanne , Kariyawasam Sanjeeva
Published: September 2021

Background

Drain placement is common practice in repair of ventral hernias, specifically complex hernias. There is little‐to‐no evidence for benefit of drains and best practice in‐terms of number, position, duration of use and type of drains. This study investigates drain profile in open repair of large ventral hernias.

Methods

A retrospective two‐centres audit with data collected via electronic and paper‐based medical records from the 1 February 2015 to 29 June 2020. All elective and emergency cases were included. Main outcomes included surgical site infection (SSI), seroma and hematoma formation.

Results

A total of 186 patients included, out of those 128(68.5%) had drain placed. Drain placement had a higher incidence of SSI (20.3% in drain group and 15.5% in no drain group), however, drains were more likely to be placed in complex ventral hernias. Drain practice varied significantly between surgeons, however, there was a clear trend to higher SSI rates with longer duration of drain use (specifically longer than 5 days, p‐value: 0.05) and higher drain output on removal (specifically higher than 150 ml/24 h, p‐value 0.004), furthermore, prolonged use did not decrease risk of seroma formation. Drain position, number of drains and suction pressure did not affect seroma or SSI rates.

Conclusion

Our data suggests no clear benefits of drain usage in most ventral hernia repairs. Prolonged drain use led to higher risk of SSI and did not decrease rate of seroma formation. If used, we recommend use of short drain duration<5 days. Further RCTs to evaluate drain placement in large ventral hernias are needed.
A pilot randomised controlled trial of patient education to improve umbilical cleanliness prior to laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Watson Eleanor G. R. , Cobden Elizabeth J. , Vasey Carolyn E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Before laparoscopic abdominal surgery, surgeons frequently remove debris from patients' umbilici to prevent it from passing into the abdomen and optimise skin antisepsis. This task irritates the skin, takes time and contaminates sterile equipment. This pilot randomised controlled trial aimed to inform a definitive study investigating whether patient education improves umbilical cleanliness in these patients.

Methods

To generate data on effect size and sample size, adult patients undergoing elective and emergency laparoscopic abdominal surgery were randomised to an intervention group, who received an education pack to clean their umbilicus prior to surgery, or a control group, who received no pack. Umbilical cleanliness was measured using a novel scale. To assess scale validity and reliability, all umbilici were scored by nine surgeons and surgical trainees using photographs and umbilici were swabbed to estimate bacterial load. Intervention acceptability was assessed via study consent and withdrawal rates and trial feasibility was evaluated using qualitative insights documented by investigators.

Results

Seventy‐one percent (22/31) of the intervention group had clean umbilici versus 61% (19/31) in the control group. A definitive trial would require 712 participants to show statistical significance between study groups. The umbilical cleanliness scale had excellent interrater and test–retest reliability and a moderate degree of convergent validity with respect to bacterial load. The intervention was highly acceptable to participants, and theatre nurses and surgical trainees were central to trial feasibility.

Conclusion

A definitive trial is warranted and would contribute to an evidence‐based, standardised approach to preoperative care. Trial registration no. ACTRN12620000278932.
Do masks matter? Consumer perceptions of social media influencers who wear face masks amid the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Klucarova Sona
Published: September 2021

The rapid spread of COVID‐19 brought about an increased use of face masks among the general public. Focusing on disposable surgical masks in particular, this article examines consumer perceptions of and intentions toward social media influencers who wear such masks amid the pandemic. Drawing on the theory of product symbolism, this research experimentally demonstrates that masked (vs. unmasked) influencers remind consumers of highly competent healthcare professionals, leading in turn to greater competence inferences about and more favorable behavioral intentions toward these influencers. Additional analysis demonstrates that this effect might not hold for other groups of professionals who are considered relatively competent at the outset and/or whose profession is less reliant on external cues. Overall, this research suggests that apart from curtailing the spread of the pandemic, mask wearing might prove beneficial to certain groups of professionals, such as social media influencers, who have traditionally struggled to establish credibility. In a broader context, this research establishes mask wearing as a new form of nonverbal communication that warrants further examination.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: prevalence of hepatic steatosis, fibrosis and associated factors in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Zheng Qi , Zou Biyao , Wu Yuankai , Yeo Yeehui , Wu Huizhen , Stave Christopher D , Cheung Ramsey C. , Nguyen Mindie H.
Published: September 2021

Background

As the prevalence of hepatitis steatosis (HS) increases, the prevalence of HS among those with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) may also be increasing but data on the effect of HS on CHB disease progression are lacking.

Aims

To determine the prevalence of HS in CHB and associated factors, prevalence of fibrosis and its association with HS.

Methods

Two researchers independently searched the literature and extracted data. We included full‐length original articles of adults with CHB that evaluated. Prevalence estimates were pooled using a random‐effects model. Associations between HS and fibrosis were assessed by pooled odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MD).

Results

Of the 2821 records screened, 54 eligible studies (28 648 patients) were analysed. The pooled prevalence of HS in CHB was 32.8% (95% CI, 28.9‐37.0) with higher prevalence in men and obese patients. Older age, male sex and metabolic factors were associated with HS while an inverse association was observed between HS and HBeAg (OR 0.82, 95% CI, 0.75‐0.91) and HBV DNA levels (MD −0.38, 95% CI −1.16‐−0.42). The pooled prevalence of significant fibrosis (≥F2 or ≥F3) was similar between patients with CHB with or without HS (40.1% vs 42.22%, P = 0.68). HS was not significantly associated with fibrosis (pooled OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.54‐1.39, 20 studies, 6232 patients).

Conclusions

Approximately 30% of patients with CHB had HS, which was positively associated with male sex, diabetes and metabolic factors, and was negatively associated with HBeAg and HBV DNA. HS was not significantly associated with increased fibrosis.
Status, relative deprivation, and moral devaluation of immigrants
Authors: Gheorghiu Mirona , Pehrson Samuel , Christ Oliver
Published: August 2021

Immigration has been a prominent political issue for decades, but particularly so with rising national populism. To understand current anti‐immigration opinion, we turn to the concept of relative deprivation, which, we argue, is fundamentally about entitlement and is at the heart of popular backlash against immigration. Examining the United Kingdom context, we predicted that immigration attitudes would be contingent on immigrant group status, with immigrants from low‐status or poorer countries (Poland, India) more likely to be perceived as encroaching on the majority group’s entitlements than those from high‐status or richer countries (Germany, Australia). We further proposed moral devaluation (dehumanization and distrust) as a novel mechanism (over and above prejudice) underlying the conditional effects of relative deprivation on support for formal (anti‐immigration policies) and informal (hate crime) means of immigrant exclusion. A pilot study (n = 245) and cross‐sectional survey (n = 490) results supported our main prediction that status matters: participants felt more deprived relative to low‐ than high‐status immigrants, and this predicted stronger support for anti‐immigration policies both directly and through higher distrust (but not dehumanization). This research highlights the need to unpack the generic ‘immigrant’ category and study anti‐immigration sentiment in terms of group status and moral devaluation.
Flexural‐isostatic reconstruction of the Western Mediterranean during the Messinian Salinity Crisis: Implications for water level and basin connectivity
Authors: Heida Hanneke , Raad Fadl , Garcia‐Castellanos Daniel , Jiménez‐ Munt Ivone , Maillard Agnès , Lofi Johanna
Published: September 2021

During the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC, 5.97–5.33 Ma), thick evaporites were deposited in the Mediterranean Sea associated with major margin erosion. This has been interpreted by most authors as resulting from water level drop by evaporation but its timing, amplitude and variations between subbasins are poorly constrained due to uncertainty in post‐Messinian vertical motions and lack of a clear time‐correlation between the marginal basin and offshore records. The Balearic Promontory and surrounding basins exemplify a range of responses to this event, from margin erosion to up to a kilometre thick Messinian units in the abyssal areas containing the majority of the MSC halite. The Balearic Promontory contains unique patches of halite with thickness up to 325 m at intermediate depths that provide valuable information on water level during the stage of halite deposition. We compile seismic markers potentially indicating ancient shorelines during the drawdown phase: the first is marked by the transition from the MES to UU based on seismic data. The second is the limit between the bottom erosion surface (BES) and abyssal halite deposits. We restore these shorelines to their original depth accounting for flexural isostasy and sediment compaction. The best‐fitting scenario involves a water level drop of ca. 1,100 ± 100 m for the Upper unit level and 1,500 ± 100 m for the BES level. According to our results, halite deposition began in the Central Mallorca Depression at 1,300–1,500 m depth, perched hundreds of metres above the deep basins, which were at 1,500–1,800 m (Valencia Basin) and >2,900 m (Algerian Basin). The hypothesis that erosion surfaces were formed subaerially during the drawdown phase is consistent with a model of halite deposition before/during the water level drop of at least 1,000 m, followed by the deposition of the Upper unit until the MSC is terminated by the reinstatement of normal marine conditions.
Single‐cell profiling reveals distinct immune phenotypes that contribute to ischaemia‐reperfusion injury after steatotic liver transplantation
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Lu Di , Wang Rui , Lian Zhengxing , Lin Zuyuan , Zhuo Jianyong , Chen Hao , Yang Modan , Tan Winyen , Yang Mengfan , Wei Xuyong , Wei Qiang , Zheng Shusen , Xu Xiao
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The discrepancy between supply and demand of organ has led to an increased utilization of steatotic liver for liver transplantation (LT). Hepatic steatosis, however, is a major risk factor for graft failure due to increased susceptibility to ischaemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury during transplantation.

Materials and methods

To assess the plasticity and phenotype of immune cells within the microenvironment of steatotic liver graft at single‐cell level, single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐Seq) was carried out on 23 675 cells from transplanted rat livers. Bioinformatic analyses and multiplex immunohistochemistry were performed to assess the functional properties, transcriptional regulation, phenotypic switching and cell‐cell interactions of different cell subtypes.

Results

We have identified 11 different cell types in transplanted livers and found that the highly complex ecosystem was shaped by myeloid‐derived cell subsets that transit between different states and interact mutually. Notably, a pro‐inflammatory phenotype of Kupffer cells (KCs) with high expression of colony‐stimulating factor 3 (CSF3) that was enriched in transplanted steatotic livers was potentially participated in fatty graft injury. We have also detected a subset of dendritic cells (DCs) with highly expressing XCR1 that was correlated with CD8+ T cells, mediating the severer steatotic liver damage by I/R injury.

Conclusions

The findings of our study provide new insight into the mechanisms by which steatosis exacerbates liver damage from I/R injury. Interventions based on these observations create opportunities in attenuating fatty liver graft injury and expanding the donor pool.
Cascading impacts of earthquakes and extreme heatwaves have destroyed populations of an iconic marine foundation species
Authors: Thomsen Mads S. , Mondardini Luca , Thoral François , Gerber Derek , Montie Shinae , South Paul M. , Tait Leigh , Orchard Shane , Alestra Tommaso , Schiel David R.
Published: September 2021

Aim

Ecologists traditionally study how contemporary local processes, such as biological interactions and physical stressors, affect the distribution and abundance of organisms. By comparison, biogeographers study the distribution of the same organisms, but focus on historic, larger‐scale processes that can cause mass mortalities, such as earthquakes. Here we document cascading effects of rare biogeographical (seismic) and more common ecological (temperature‐related) processes on the distribution and abundances of coastal foundation species.

Location

Intertidal wave‐exposed rocky reefs around Kaikōura, New Zealand, dominated by large, long‐lived, and iconic southern bull kelps (Durvillaea antarctica and Durvillaea willana).

Methods

In November 2016, a 7.8 Mw earthquake uplifted the coastline around Kaikōura by up to 2 m, and a year later the region experienced the hottest summer on record. Extensive sampling of intertidal communities over 15 km coastline were done shortly after the earthquake and heatwaves and 4 years after the earthquake.

Results

Durvillaea lost 75% of its canopy to uplift and the heatwaves reduced canopies that had survived the uplift by an additional 35%. The survey done 4 years after the earthquake showed that Durvillaea had not recovered and that the intertidal zone in many places now was dominated by small turfs and foliose seaweed.

Main conclusions

Cascading impacts from seismic uplift and heatwaves have destroyed populations of Durvillaea around Kaikōura. Surviving smaller and sparser Durvillaea patches will likely compromise capacity for self‐replacement and lower resilience to future stressors. These results are discussed in a global biogeographical‐ecological context of seismic activity and extreme heatwaves and highlight that these events, which are not particularly rare in a geological context, may have common long‐lasting ecological legacies.
Learners’ satisfaction with web‐based assessment platforms
Authors: Merhi Mohammad I. , Meisami Alex
Published: August 2021

This study examines the factors that impact learners’ satisfaction with web‐based assessment platforms designed by publishers. The research model investigates the intermediate role of autonomy and competency from the self‐determination theory. The data are collected from 324 undergraduate business students in a mid‐western U.S. institution who used McGraw‐Hill Connect. The hypotheses were tested and validated using PLS‐SEM analytical procedures. The results show that competency, autonomy, perceived quality, and feedback have direct impact on learners’ satisfaction. Self‐efficacy, quality, and feedback are antecedents to competency and autonomy. Competency is a full mediator between self‐efficacy and satisfaction. The results and their implications are discussed.
COVID‐19 and exacerbation of dermatological diseases: A review of the available literature
Authors: Aram Khashayar , Patil Anant , Goldust Mohamad , Rajabi Fateme
Published: August 2021

Since the emergence of the new coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) pandemic, there has been a concern for the patients with chronic autoimmune diseases including dermatological conditions over the potential exacerbation of these underlying conditions after infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV2). We performed a systematic review to evaluate presentations, postinfection change in the manifestation, diagnosis, and management of flare‐ups of underlying dermatologic disease in patients with COVID‐19. A total of 17 articles were recovered reporting on flare‐ups of dermatological disease including pemphigus vulgaris, psoriasis, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau, systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma, and Sézary syndrome (SS). Out of these, psoriasis and alopecia areata were the most common conditions. However, most cases of psoriasis could have been attributed to either antimalarial agents that were initially used for the treatment of COVID‐19 or discontinuation of treatment following SARS‐CoV2 infection.
Biotic interactions are more often important at species’ warm versus cool range edges
Authors: Paquette Alexandra , Hargreaves Anna L.
Published: August 2021

Predicting which ecological factors constrain species distributions is a fundamental ecological question and critical to forecasting geographic responses to global change. Darwin hypothesised that abiotic factors generally impose species’ high‐latitude and high‐elevation (typically cool) range limits, whereas biotic interactions more often impose species’ low‐latitude/low‐elevation (typically warm) limits, but empirical support has been mixed. Here, we clarify three predictions arising from Darwin's hypothesis and show that previously mixed support is partially due to researchers testing different predictions. Using a comprehensive literature review (885 range limits), we find that biotic interactions, including competition, predation and parasitism, contributed to >60% of range limits and influenced species’ warm limits more often than cool limits. Abiotic factors contributed more often than biotic interactions to cool range limits, but temperature contributed frequently to both cool and warm limits. Our results suggest that most range limits will be sensitive to climate warming, but warm‐limit responses in particular will depend strongly on biotic interactions.
How do street‐level bureaucrats manage high workloads? Collegial mechanisms at the organisational level—experiences from public healthcare organisations
Authors: Berlin Johan , Szücs Stefan , Höjer Staffan , Liljegren Andreas
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study is to understand and explain how street‐level bureaucrats manage high workloads in public healthcare organisations. Data was collected through observations, interviews and documents. The results show that high workloads are reduced through use of collegial mechanisms at the organisation level. The study shows that workloads are reduced in a two‐step process, the first is a negotiation between professionals and the second in the meeting with patients. The two‐step process explains the limitation problems in more detail and makes an important contribution by explaining how high workloads are reduced in public health services.
Corpus callosum hypersignals and focal atrophy: Neuroimaging findings in globular glial tauopathy type I
Authors: Keller Jiri , Kavkova Anna , Matej Radoslav , Cséfalvay Zsolt , Rusina Robert
Published: September 2021

Background and purpose

Globular glial tauopathies (GGTs) have heterogeneous presentations; little evidence regarding typical clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) presentations are available.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed MRIs from three postmortem‐confirmed GGT cases, in two patients with atypical progressive aphasia and one with corticobasal syndrome.

Results

We suggest that four principal concomitant MRI findings characterize GGT type I: a sagittal callosal hyperintense band, marked focal callosal atrophy suggesting white matter degeneration originating in cortical areas responsible for symptoms (anterior atrophy in predominantly language manifestations and posterior atrophy in predominantly apraxia), periventricular white matter lesions, and mild‐to‐moderate brain stem atrophy.

Conclusions

We observed four concomitant MRI abnormalities in patients with atypical dementia, parkinsonism, and late incomplete supranuclear gaze palsy. Two patients had atypical progressive aphasia and one had corticobasal syndrome.
From southern swamps to cosmopolitan model: Humanity’s unfinished history with mosquitofish
Authors: Fryxell David C. , Moffett Emma R. , Kinnison Michael T. , Simon Kevin S. , Palkovacs Eric P.
Published: September 2021

The most widespread and numerous inland fish in the world is likely the mosquitofish (Gambusia affinisandG. holbrooki, Poeciliidae). Much has been written about the basic biology, the current distribution and the negative impacts of non‐native populations of mosquitofish. Here, we instead review the relationship of humanity with mosquitofish. First, we review the early literature on the species and aim to resolve its path towards becoming the globally dominant fish for biological control of mosquitoes. We identify the initial advocates of mosquitofish use, we examine the reasons behind their advocacy, and we document the spread of their viewpoints into and from the globally foundational mosquito control texts. Second, we identify the people and institutions that facilitated early international translocations of mosquitofish, including, among others, David Starr Jordan, the Rockefeller Foundation and the International Red Cross. Third, we discuss the reduction in mosquitofish translocation and use during and after WWII, initially stemming from the discovery and use of other methods, like DDT and later from a recognition of the negative ecological consequences of non‐native mosquitofish populations. Fourth, we propose that the future utility of mosquitofish is largely in its value as a model study organism. We provide an overview of the contributions mosquitofish have made to some major fields in biology. Finally, we suggest that the value of mosquitofish as a model system should increase into the future, behind a momentum of research advances, and as human‐mediated range expansion will permit access to mosquitofish by yet greater numbers of biologists worldwide.
Credit derivatives and loan yields
Authors: Azam Nimita , Mamun Abdullah , Tannous George F.
Published: September 2021

We compare the loan yields of credit derivative (CRD) active bank holding companies (BHCs) with the loan yields of CRD inactive peers over the pre‐crisis, crisis (2008–10), and post‐crisis periods. During the post‐crisis period, protection purchasers report lower yields than their peers, while sellers report yields like those reported by their peers. The relation between the yield and commercial and industrial (C&I) loans is positive and significant during the pre‐ and post‐crisis periods, and CRD activities do not affect this relation. CRD activities are changing the relations between the loan yield and consumer loans, real estate loans, and securitization.
Infection prevention and control practice among home‐care nursing agencies in Japan: Secondary analysis of a nationwide cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Morioka Noriko , Kashiwagi Masayo
Published: September 2021

Aim

We describe the nationwide situation of infection prevention and control (IPC) practices among home‐visit nursing agencies and compare them by agency size to explore whether these practices are associated with the occurrence of infection.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis using data from a cross‐sectional nationwide survey inspecting patient safety and IPC practices among nationwide home‐visit nursing agencies, from March to April 2020. Among 9978 agencies, 580 responded and 370 were incorporated in the analysis. The self‐administered questionnaire inquired about the IPC policy and administrative structure, education and training, adherence to standard precautions, and employee health programs. We described the adherence to IPC practice at the agency level and compared them by agency size using chi‐squared tests. Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the associations between IPC practices and incidence of infection.

Results

Adherence to IPC practices ranged from 19.2% to 92.4% and varied according to agency size. Less than 20% of agencies had instituted a committee for IPC and strictly used disposable aprons when changing patients' diapers. Instituting a committee for IPC (odds ratio 2.19, 95% confidence interval 1.11–4.34, P < 0.05) and training staff for infection prevention (odds ratio 1.67, 95% confidence interval 1.02–2.72, P < 0.01) were significantly associated with the incidence of infection, after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions

There are challenges in establishing IPC policies and administrative structures and adhering to standard precautions. Well‐organized agencies were found to be more likely to detect infections occurring over the past 3 months. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 913–918.
Is there heterogeneity among persistent high‐growth firms?
Authors: Monteiro Guilherme Fowler A. , Bortoluzzo Adriana Bruscato , Rosa Pedro Lipkin P.
Published: September 2021

Theoretical and empirical studies on persistent high growth have largely focused on the extent to which companies are able to sustain their high growth rates over time and whether there are firm‐level determinants of this behavior. These studies, however, neglect the question of whether persistent high‐growth firms exhibit distinct growth patterns. To analyze this question empirically, we examine a database of approximately 16,000 persistently high‐growth companies located in Brazil during the period 2013–2016. First, we develop a clustering analysis, finding three high‐growth patterns. Based on this classification, and through ordered logit regression, we then examine whether regional dimensions explain the differences in growth. The results indicate that companies located in regions with more availability of technological, educational, and physical infrastructure are more likely to be in the groups with the highest growth. On the other hand, the increase in regional sophistication in economic terms tends to reduce the likelihood of very high growth. This specific result is confirmed when we perform quantile regressions.
Structured medicines reviews in HIV outpatients: a feasibility study (The MOR Study)
Authors: Leake Date Heather A. , Alford Katie , Hounsome Natalia , Moore David , Ing Kin , Vera Jaime H.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Polypharmacy in people living with HIV (PLWH) increases the risks of medicine‐related problems (events or circumstances involving drug therapy that actually or potentially interfere with desired health outcomes). We aimed to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a Medicines Management Optimisation Review (MOR) toolkit in HIV outpatients.

Methods

This was a multi‐centre randomized controlled study across four HIV centres. In all, 200 PLWH on combination antiretroviral therapy, either > 50 years old or < 50 years with other comorbidities, were enrolled to have a MOR or received standard pharmaceutical care. The primary outcome was the difference in the number of medicine‐related problems (MRPs) between intervention and standard care groups at baseline and 6 months. Acceptability, cost of the intervention and health‐related quality of life were also examined.

Results

In all, 164 patients were analysed: 70 in the intervention group and 94 in the standard care group. A significant number of MRPs were detected in those patients receiving MOR compared with the standard care group at baseline (93 vs. 2; p = 0.001, z = −8.6, r = 0.6) and 6 months (33 vs. 3; p = 0.001, z = −5.7, r = 0.4). A significant reduction in the number of new MRPs at 6 months in the intervention group versus baseline was also observed (p = 0.001, Z = −3.7, r = 0.2); 44% of MRPs were fully resolved at baseline and 51% at 6 months. No changes in health‐related quality of life following MOR or between MOR and standard care groups were observed. The MORs were highly acceptable among patients and healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

The MOR toolkit was feasible and acceptable, suggesting that HIV outpatient services might consider implementing MOR for targeted populations under their care.
Pharmacological inhibition of USP7 suppresses growth and metastasis of melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Xiang Minmin , Liang Long , Kuang Xinwei , Xie Zuozhong , Liu Jing , Zhao Shuang , Su Juan , Chen Xiang , Liu Hong
Published: September 2021

Melanoma is a highly aggressive type of skin cancer. The development of diverse resistance mechanisms and severe adverse effects significantly limit the efficiency of current therapeutic approaches. Identification of the new therapeutic targets involved in the pathogenesis will benefit the development of novel therapeutic strategies. The deubiquitinase ubiquitin–specific protease‐7, a potential target for cancer treatment, is deregulated in types of cancer, but its role in melanoma is still unclear. We investigated the role and the inhibitor P22077 of ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 in melanoma treatment. We found that ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 was overexpressed and correlated with poor prognosis in melanoma. Further, pharmacological inhibition of ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 by P22077 can effectively inhibit proliferation, and induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via ROS accumulation–induced DNA damage in melanoma cells. Inhibition of ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 by P22077 also inhibits melanoma tumour growth in vivo. Moreover, inhibition of ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 prevented migration and invasion of melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo by decreasing the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. Taken together, our study revealed that ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 acted as an oncogene involved in melanoma cell proliferation and metastasis. Therefore, ubiquitin‐specific protease‐7 may serve as potential candidates for the treatment of melanoma.
One‐year follow‐up comparing at‐home bleaching systems outcomes and the impact on patient's satisfaction: Randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mailart Mariane C. , Sakassegawa Paula A. , Santos Karine C. , Torres Carlos R. G. , Palo Renato M. , Borges Alessandra B.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To compare at‐home systems with reduced daily time of use (10% hydrogen peroxide [HP] gel with prefilled (PT) or customized trays (CT), and 10% carbamide peroxide [CP] gel), with the conventional nightguard vital bleaching (10% CP). Bleaching efficacy, adverse effects, and patient's satisfaction were evaluated.

Methods

Sixty participants were randomly divided into treatments (14 days): Opalescence GO (OGO)‐10%HP PT‐30 min, White Class‐10%HP CT‐30 min, Opalescence PF‐10%CP CT‐2 h, and Opalescence PF‐10%CP CT‐8 h. Color difference (visual and spectrophotometer), tooth sensitivity (visual analogue scale), gingival condition (Löe index), enamel mineralization (laser fluorescence), and patients' satisfaction (questionnaire) were assessed. Statistical tests were applied (5%).

Results

After 1 year, color difference was similar for the groups (p > 0.05). All groups showed similar sensitivity risk (p > 0.05). The intensity of sensitivity and gingival irritation was mild for all gels, but higher for OGO. Fluorescence after bleaching remained similar to those of sound enamel. All participants were satisfied with treatments.

Conclusions

All systems produced similar bleaching efficacy, which was maintained after 1 year. Patients were satisfied with bleaching outcomes. Tooth sensitivity occurred in all groups, but with overall mild intensity. No relevant gingival irritation and enamel demineralization was observed.

Clinical significance

Bleaching with 10% HP gels in prefilled and CTs represent efficacious alternative for tooth color change, with patients' acceptance similar to conventional 10% CP. Patients must be warned about the mild sensitivity and gingival irritation potential, mainly with PTs.
The double ABCM model of marital satisfaction
Authors: Hall Scott S.
Published: September 2021

The proposed double ABCM model of marital satisfaction draws from the double ABCX theory of family behavior framework to incorporate pre‐marital factors associated with getting married that carry‐over into the marriage itself; it also integrates marital demands, circumstances, and perceptions that ultimately contribute to marital satisfaction. Bodies of literature related to marriage intentions, marital beliefs, newlywed adjustment, and marital maintenance are integrated into the constructs of the model. The double ABCM model expands the structure of the original double ABCX framework in several ways, including by explicitly depicting broader contextual factors that influence intra‐relational processes, diagraming the shared and unshared aspects of most constructs, and illustrating a nonlinear passage of time. Limitations and implications are discussed.