bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taking care of dying patients through an ‘interprofessional ecosystem’: a grounded theory study on the experience of an interprofessional team in palliative care
Authors: Taffurelli Chiara , Barello Serena , Cervantes Camacho Vittoria , Bertuol Maria , Savarese Mariarosaria , Artioli Giovanna
Published: November 2020

Background

The interprofessional approach is part of the philosophy in palliative care, and its benefits are already documented. However, there are no evidence regarding the process through which the interprofessional team faces the process of the patient’s end‐of‐life and how this experience might be of value for the team’s development itself. The aim of this study was to analyse and understand the psychosocial processes that occurs when an interprofessional team accompanies patients and their families to death in palliative care, with the ultimate aim to develop a substantive theory to describe this phenomenon.

Methods

A Grounded Theory method, as theorized by Strauss and Corbin, was adopted for this study. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews and then independently analysed using constant comparison analysis. Fourteen healthcare professionals – belonging to different disciplines (doctor, nurse coordinator, nurse, nurse assistant, psychologist) – were interviewed in a Northern Italy palliative care facility.

Findings

The core category of this study was identified to be the process of accompaniment of the dying patient as an interprofessional ecosystem. Moreover, the results showed four main factors determining the development of the core psychosocial process: from professionals’ ‘Hidden Amazement’ to ‘Onerous Happiness’ where ‘Weaving of Professional Resources’ and ‘Work Meaning’ are the underlying conditions to catalyse the process itself.

Conclusion

Interprofessional care appears an essential value, which becomes the source of the team’s strength when facing end‐of‐life experiences. Health policies and organisations should take the importance of the characteristics of the work environment more carefully. The meaning that professionals attribute to their work and to the team itself, indeed, it may have impact on the overall quality of care and contribute to sustain work engagement, even in stressful situations like end‐of‐life care.
Ethical Learning: The Workplace as a Moral Laboratory for Character Development
Authors: Smith Isaac H. , Kouchaki Maryam
Published: November 2020

In contrast to the view that businesses corrupt and bring out the worst in people, we propose that people's experiences at work can also lead to profound ethical learning and growth, and that organizations can be designed to help workers strive to become their best moral selves. To this end, we selectively review literature from the fields of organizational behavior, moral psychology, and behavioral ethics to identify five key barriers to ethical learning at work: defensiveness, overconfidence, selfishness, inexperience, and negative social influence. Then, to help leaders establish an organizational environment that helps workers overcome these barriers and promotes ethical learning and character development, we present five guiding principles (i.e., create an ethical culture, develop psychological safety, promote moral humility, foster prosocial motivation, and institutionalize moral reflection) and offer specific recommendations related to each.
Keeping friends in mind: Development of friendship concepts in early childhood
Authors: Afshordi Narges , Liberman Zoe
Published: November 2020

Friendship is a fundamental part of being human. Understanding which cues indicate friendship and what friendship entails is critical for navigating the social world. We survey research on 3‐ to 6‐year‐old children’s friendship concepts, discussing both classic work from the 1970s and 1980s using interview methods, as well as current work using simpler experimental tasks. We focus on three core features of young children’s friendship concepts: (1) proximity, (2) prosocial interactions, and (3) similarity. For each, we discuss how recent findings extend and expand classic foundations. Importantly, we highlight that children’s knowledge develops earlier and is deeper than initially hypothesized, and how children’s abilities are supported by early social inferences in infancy. We examine the implications of young children’s friendship concepts and note exciting new avenues for future research.
Antimicrobial use quantification in adult dairy cows – Part 1 – Standardized regimens as a method for describing antimicrobial use
Authors: Schrag Nora F. D. , Apley Michael D. , Godden Sandra M. , Lubbers Brian V. , Singer Randall S.
Published: November 2020

This study describes a process to acquire and convert farm treatment records into a standardized regimen format. Multiple sources of on‐farm data were utilized to convert the original treatment records to standardized regimens, enabling the generation of objective, granular descriptions of antimicrobial use. These standard regimen descriptions allow antimicrobial use data to be qualitatively stratified by active substance, disease syndrome treated, use category, and route of administration. Quantitative distributions are available for the grams of active substance per administration, the grams of active substance per regimen, the number of administrations, number of days of therapy and the time frame between the first and last administration. Granular quantification by this method informs future research, surveillance and policy.
Dietary assessment methodology and reporting in Pacific Island research: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Craven Dana Louise , Vogliano Chris , Horsey Bridget , Underhill Steven , Burkhart Sarah
Published: November 2020

Objective:

This scoping review aims to identify and describe the methods used to collect and analyze dietary intake data in residents of Pacific Island countries.

Introduction:

Dietary assessment explores associations between dietary factors and health outcomes. In regions, including the Pacific Islands, where diet-related, non-communicable diseases are increasing, this is a growing area of research. As this information is used to inform food and nutrition policies and practice, accurate collection, analysis, and interpretation of dietary assessment data relies on robust methods. A greater understanding of how nutrition studies are designed can strengthen the evidence on nutrition and health in Pacific Island settings and inform future research approaches.

Inclusion criteria:

The scoping review will consider studies published in peer-reviewed journals, including quantitative and qualitative study designs and gray literature, including government reports, research and technical reports, theses and dissertations that measure and/or assess dietary intake in resident populations of the Pacific Island member countries of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community: American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Cook Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, French Polynesia, Guam, the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, the Independent State of Samoa, the Kingdom of Tonga, New Caledonia, Niue, Pitcairn Islands, the Republic of Fiji, the Republic of Kiribati, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Nauru, the Republic of Palau, the Republic of Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tuvalu, and Wallis and Futuna.

Methods:

There will be no time limit and searches will be conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, CABI, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Results will be limited to English-language articles. Data will be extracted independently by two reviewers into a charting table. Results will be presented graphically and with tables accompanied by a narrative summary.
Application of statistical shape modeling to the human hip joint: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Johnson Luke G. , Pawliuk Colleen
Published: November 2020

Objective:

This review aims to identify all examples of the application of statistical shape models to the human hip joint, with a focus on methodology, validation, and applications.

Introduction:

Abnormal hip joint morphology (eg, deformity secondary to Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease) is an important precursor to osteoarthritis. Clinical radiographs are often used to characterize deformity and provide indication for surgical correction, but it is unclear whether radiographs can adequately describe three-dimensional deformity. Statistical shape modeling, a method of describing a population of shapes using a small number of variables, has been identified as a potential tool that will allow clinicians and researchers to validate current and novel radiographic measurements of hip deformity. In identifying all previous examples of statistical shape modeling applied to the hip joint, this review will determine its prevalence, strengths, and weaknesses, and identify gaps in the literature.

Inclusion criteria:

Peer-reviewed and gray literature focusing on the development and/or application of statistical shape models to the human hip joint will be included.

Methods:

Several relevant databases, including Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and IEEE, will be searched for literature published from 1992, and for a title and abstract that can be searched in English. After removal of duplicates, two reviewers will independently screen papers by title and abstract, then screen the full text of selected or uncertain papers. The same reviewers will then independently chart data from the final selection. At each stage, disagreements will be resolved through discussion or third-party arbitration.
Rapport between nurses and adult patients in ambulatory oncology care settings: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Koppel Paula D. , Ledbetter Leila , De Gagne Jennie C.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The primary objective of this scoping review is to explore what is known about cultivating rapport between nurses and adult patients in ambulatory oncology care. A bibliometric analysis will be performed to explore whether this method enhances mapping of the literature.

Introduction:

Research demonstrates that patients with cancer value nurses not only for their skillful delivery of treatment but also for their support and guidance. Rapport, or nurse–patient bonding, is associated with patient satisfaction. Although the importance of the nurse–patient relationship in oncology nursing is established, less is known about the process of nurturing rapport, especially in ambulatory care where most treatment is delivered.

Inclusion criteria:

This scoping review will consider studies pertaining to nurses working with adult patients undergoing treatment for any form of cancer within ambulatory oncology. It will include experimental, quasi-experimental, descriptive observational, and qualitative designs, as well as systematic reviews and dissertations.

Methods:

Researchers will search multiple databases including MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global database, PapersFirst, and EThOS. Two independent researchers will screen the title/abstract of all retrieved citations, after which the study researchers will review the full text of selected studies for inclusion. Eligible studies will be extracted using the data extraction instrument. No time limit will be placed on the search. While studies of all languages will be included in the search, only those in English will be reviewed. Non-English studies with abstracts in English will be listed in an appendix at the end of the manuscript.
Exploring concepts and definitions of plateaus during normal labor and birth: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Weckend Marina J. , Bayes Sara , Davison Clare
Published: November 2020

Objective:

In this scoping review, contemporary concepts and definitions of phenomena during normal labor and birth, wherein the process appears to plateau (slow, stall, or pause) but remains within physiological limits, will be mapped.

Introduction:

During labor and birth, it is frequently perceived as pathological if contractions, cervical dilation, or fetal descent plateau. However, there is evidence to suggest that some plateaus during labor may be physiological, and a variety of concepts and terms refer to this phenomenon. Where a physiological plateau is perceived as pathological arrest, this may contribute to undue interventions, such as augmentation of labor. Therefore, it is important to advance understanding of physiological labor patterns, including potentially physiological labor plateaus.

Inclusion criteria:

Publications mentioning any plateaus of the processes of normal human labor and birth will be considered. This may also include phenomena where labor is perceived to “reverse,” for example, a closing cervix or a rise of the presenting fetal part. Publications where plateaus are defined as pathological will be excluded.

Methods:

All types of evidence, published and unpublished, will be considered. The search strategy will be applied to the databases MEDLINE, Embase, MIDIRS, Emcare, CINAHL, and Scopus, and will be limited to the past 30 years. Gray literature will be searched via Open Grey, reference list screening, and contacting authors. Data extraction will comprise information on concept boundaries, terminology, precedents, consequences, concept origin, and types of evidence that report this phenomenon. Results will be presented in tabular, diagrammatical, and narrative manner.
Influence of sex-based differences on oral anticoagulation control in patients taking coumarin derivatives: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Viana Catiane Costa , Praxedes Marcus Fernando da Silva , de Sousa Waleska Jaclyn Freitas Nunes , Bartolazzi Frederico , Vianna Mayara Sousa , Silva José Luiz Padilha da , Martins Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras
Published: November 2020

Objective:

This review will aim to assess the influence of sex-based differences on oral anticoagulation control in patients taking coumarin derivatives.

Introduction:

Coumarin derivatives, such as warfarin, have a narrow therapeutic index, requiring frequent monitoring to achieve adequate anticoagulation control, which can be assessed by the time in therapeutic range. Differences in the quality of oral anticoagulation control between men and women have been reported, although the current evidence is controversial. A systematic review on this topic would provide results that could be incorporated into clinical practice to enhance oral anticoagulation control and treatment outcomes.

Inclusion criteria:

Observational and experimental studies were assessed for eligibility, with participants aged ≥18 years of either sex taking oral anticoagulation or other coumarin derivatives for ≥3 months, for any indication of chronic use, who had oral anticoagulation control evaluated by time in therapeutic range.

Methods:

Electronic databases to be searched include MEDLINE, BVS, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science. Two reviewers will independently perform title/abstract selection and screening, and then full text retrieval and screening of articles that meet the inclusion criteria. The evaluation of methodological quality and data extraction will also be performed by two independent reviewers. Data will be synthesized in tables and then the compiled results will be meta-analyzed. In the presence of subgroup differences, meta-regression methods will be used to investigate the effects of categorical or continuous covariates. If statistical pooling is not possible, a narrative synthesis will be presented.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO (CRD42019128329)
The functional resonance analysis method as a health care research methodology: a scoping review protocol
Authors: McGill Alexis , Smith Doug , McCloskey Rose , Morris Patricia , Goudreau Alex , Veitch Brian
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this review is to examine and map the literature on the use of the functional resonance analysis method in health care research.

Introduction:

Health care systems are highly complex and involve interrelated functions, organizations, individuals, and technologies. Understanding how these elements interact and impact health care processes is difficult because of inherent contextual and human variables. The functional resonance analysis method offers an approach to deconstruct complex systems and examine relationships between individual processes and elements. By using the functional resonance analysis method, researchers can map health care processes and uncover performance variables that can emerge and strengthen, or compromise, intended outcomes. Insight into how the functional resonance analysis method has been operationalized in health care research will help researchers and policy makers understand how the method can be used to strengthen health care systems.

Inclusion criteria:

The scoping review will consider research and narrative reports on the application of the functional resonance analysis method in health care research. The concepts of interest are the research questions/aims/objectives, methods used to operationalize the functional resonance analysis method, key concepts and definitions of the functional resonance analysis method, and key findings. Studies that used the functional resonance analysis method in any health care setting will be considered.

Methods:

The scoping review will aim to locate published and unpublished literature by employing a three-step search strategy. Only papers published in English will be considered and no limits will be placed on the year of publication. Data extracted will include key concepts and definitions of the functional resonance analysis method, research questions/aims/objectives, methods used to operationalize the functional resonance analysis method, and key findings. Extracted data will be reported in tabular form and presented narratively to express the review question.
Data-Informed Tools for Archaeological Reflexivity: Examining the substance of bone through a meta-analysis of academic texts
Authors: Jackson Sarah , Richissin Caleigh E. , McCabe Erin E. , Lee James Jaehoon
Published: November 2020

Our study uses computational archaeology tools to investigate how researchers in our field present interpretations of the past in patterned ways. We do so in order to illuminate assumptions, naturalised categories, and patterned interpretative moves that may direct or impact the ways we interact with our evidence and write about our research. We approach this topic through a meta-analysis, using large-scale textual data from archaeological publications, focusing on the case study of bone. Are there patterned ways that archaeologists write about artefacts like bone that are visible when analysing larger datasets? If so, what underlying ideas shape these shared discursive moves? We present the results of three analyses: textual groundwork, conducted manually by field experts, and two machine-based interactive topic modelling visualisations (pyLDAvis and a hierarchical tree based on a Model of Models). Our results indicate that there are, indeed, patterns in our writing around how artefactual and archaeological materials are discussed, many of which are overt and sensical. However, our analyses also identify patterned discourses that are less obvious, but still part of regularised discourses in written narratives surrounding bone. These include: the use of multiple conceptual positions within, rather than simply between, articles, and a lack of patterned centrality of indigenous ontologies in how our field writes about bone. This pilot approach identifies data-informed, applied tools that will aid reflexive practices in our field. These operate at a scale that impacts future scholarly interactions with both evidence and published interpretations by shifting observation and reflection from an individual or small group exercise to a larger and more systematic process.
A Framework for Optimal Placement of Rooftop Photovoltaic: Maximizing Solar Production and Operational Cost Savings in Residential Communities
Authors: El Kontar Rawad , Jin Xin
Published: November 2020

Optimizing the placement of photovoltaic (PV) panels on residential buildings has the potential to significantly increase energy efficiency benefits to both homeowners and communities. Strategic PV placement can lower electricity costs by reducing the electricity fed from the grid during on-peak hours, while maintaining PV panel efficiency in terms of the amount of solar radiation received. In this article, we present a framework that identifies the ideal location of PV panels on residential rooftops. Our framework combines energy and environmental simulation, parametric modeling, and optimization to inform PV placement as it relates to and affects the entire community (in terms of both energy use and financial cost), as well as individual buildings. Ensuring that our framework accounts for shading from nearby buildings, different utility rate structures, and different buildings’ energy demand profiles means that existing communities and future housing developments can be optimized for energy savings and PV efficiency. The framework comprises two workflows, each contributing to optimal PV placement with a unique target: (a) maximizing PV panel efficiency (i.e., solar generation) and (b) minimizing operational energy cost considering utility rate structures for operational energy. We apply our framework to a residential community in Fort Collins, Colorado, to demonstrate the optimal PV placement, considering the two workflow targets. We present our results and illustrate the effect of PV location and orientation on solar energy production efficiency and operational energy cost.
Design and Implementation of a Novel Variable Stiffness Actuator With Cam-Based Relocation Mechanism
Authors: Ning Yinghao , Huang Hailin , Xu Wenfu , Zhang Weimin , Li Bing
Published: November 2020

Variable stiffness actuators (VSAs) are widely explored as they could improve the safe performance for human-robot interaction and make the system torque controllable based on the internal compliance. This article presents a novel VSA based on the cam-based relocation mechanism (CRM-VSA), which is utilized to change the locations of pivot and spring of a lever mechanism simultaneously. Consequently, such structure makes the actuator compacted and the stiffness regulation designable, which could help engineers to pursue different demands of stiffness regulation. The simultaneous relocations of the pivot and spring also permit a wide range of adjustable stiffness. By introducing linear guide pairs, the internal friction of the relocations of pivot and spring could be greatly reduced, thus enhancing the energy efficiency. To evaluate the performance of the proposed CRM-VSA, the point-to-point control strategy is developed, which contributes to a higher tracking accuracy and oscillation attenuation at both the start and end points of the trajectory. In addition, the performance of torque controllability is also verified through experiments. These excellent capabilities enable the proposed CRM-VSA to be qualified for constructing a robotic arm toward service applications.
Comparison of Energy Expenditure and Step Count Measured by ActiGraph Accelerometers Among Dominant and Nondominant Wrist and Hip Sites
Authors: Nuss Kayla J. , Hulett Nicholas A. , Erickson Alden , Burton Eric , Carr Kyle , Mooney Lauren , Anderson Jacob , Comstock Ashley , Schlemer Ethan J. , Archambault Lucas J. , Li Kaigang
Published: November 2020

Objective: To validate and compare the accuracy of energy expenditure (EE) and step counts measured by ActiGraph accelerometers (ACT) at dominant and nondominant wrist and hip sites. Methods: Thirty young adults (15 females, age 22.93 ± 3.30 years) wore four ActiGraph wGT3X accelerometers while walking and running on a treadmill for 7 min at seven different speeds (1.7, 2.5, 3.4, 4.2, 5.0, 5.5, and 6.0 mph). The EE from each ACT was calculated using the Freedson Adult equation, and the “worn on the wrist” option was selected for the wrist data. Indirect calorimetry and manually counted steps were used as criterion measures. Mean absolute percentage error and two one-sided test procedures for equivalence were used for the analyses. Results: All ACTs underestimated the EE with mean absolute percentage errors over 30% for wrist placement and over 20% for hip placement. The wrist-worn ACTs underestimated the step count with mean absolute percentage errors above 30% for both dominant and nondominant placements. The hip-worn ACTs accurately assessed steps for the whole sample and for women and men (p < .001 to .05 for two one-sided tests procedures), but not at speeds slower than 2.0 mph. Conclusion: Neither hip nor wrist placements assess EE accurately. More algorithms and methods to derive EE estimates from wrist-worn ACTs must be developed and validated. For step counts, both dominant and nondominant hip placements, but not wrist placements, lead to accurate results for both men and women.
Validation of Garmin Fenix 3 HR Fitness Tracker Biomechanics and Metabolics (VO2max)
Authors: Carrier Bryson , Creer Andrew , Williams Lauren R. , Holmes Timothy M. , Jolley Brayden D. , Dahl Siri , Weber Elizabeth , Standifird Tyler
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of the Garmin fēnix® 3 HR fitness tracker. Methods: A total of 34 healthy recreational runners participated in biomechanical or metabolic testing. Biomechanics participants completed three running conditions (flat, incline, and decline) at a self-selected running pace, on an instrumented treadmill while running biomechanics were tracked using a motion capture system. Variables extracted were compared with data collected by the Garmin fēnix 3 HR (worn on the wrist) that was paired with a chest heart rate monitor and a Garmin Foot Pod (worn on the shoe). Metabolic testing involved two separate tests; a graded exercise test to exhaustion utilizing a metabolic cart and treadmill, and a 15-min submaximal outdoor track session while wearing the Garmin. 2 × 3 analysis of variances with post hoc t tests, mean absolute percentage errors, Pearson’s correlation (R), and a t test were used to determine validity. Results: The fēnix kinematics had a mean absolute percentage errors of 9.44%, 0.21%, 26.38%, and 5.77% for stride length, run cadence, vertical oscillation, and ground contact time, respectively. The fēnix overestimated (p < .05) VO2max with a mean absolute percentage error of 8.05% and an R value of .917. Conclusion: The Garmin fēnix 3 HR appears to produce a valid measure of run cadence and ground contact time during running, while it overestimated vertical oscillation in every condition (p < .05) and should be used with caution when determining stride length. The fēnix appears to produce a valid VO2max estimate and may be used when more accurate methods are not available.
ICEHpsaHPS7, a Novel Multiple Drug Resistance Integrative Conjugative Element in
Glaesserella parasuis
Authors: An Jiahui , Guo Genglin , Yu Dong , Zhu Kexin , Zhang Chao , Li Yufeng
Published: November 2020

Integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) are a kind of novel self-transmissible mobile genetic element. In this study, a novel ICE was identified in
Glaesserella
(
Haemophilus
)
parasuis
.
Aspergillus oryzae Rutinosidase: Biochemical and Structural Investigation
Authors: Makabe Koki , Hirota Ruka , Shiono Yoshihito , Tanaka Yoshikazu , Koseki Takuya
Published: November 2020

Flavonoid glycosides constitute a class of secondary metabolites widely distributed in nature. These compounds are involved in bitter taste or clouding in plant-based foods or beverages, respectively.
Sedimentary and volcanic record of the nascent Izu-Bonin-Mariana arc from IODP Site U1438
Authors: Waldman Ryan J. , Marsaglia Kathleen M. , Hickey-Vargas Rosemary , Ishizuka Osamu , Johnson Kyle E. , McCarthy Anders , Yogodzinski Gene , Samajpati Eshita , Li He , Laxton Kate , Savov Ivan P. , Meffre Sebastien , Arculus Richard J. , Bandini Alexandre N. , Barth Andrew P. , Bogus Kara , Brandl Philipp A. , Gurnis Michael , Jiang Fuqing
Published: November 2020

The oldest known, intact sedimentary record of a nascent intraoceanic arc was recovered in a ∼100-m-thick unit (IV) above ca. 49 Ma basaltic basement at International Ocean Discovery Program Site U1438 in the Amami Sankaku Basin. During deposition of Unit IV the site was located ∼250 km from the plate edge, where Izu-Bonin-Mariana subduction initiated at 52 Ma. Basement basalts are overlain by a mudstone-dominated subunit (IVC) with a thin basal layer of dark brown metalliferous mudstone followed by mudstone with sparse, graded laminae of amphibole- and biotite-bearing tuffaceous sandstone and siltstone. Amphibole and zircon ages from these laminae suggest that the intermediate subduction-related magmatism that sourced them initiated at ca. 47 Ma soon after basement formation. Overlying volcaniclastic, sandy, gravity-flow deposits (subunit IVB) have a different provenance; shallow water fauna and tachylitic glass fragments indicate a source volcanic edifice that rose above the carbonate compensation depth and may have been emergent. Basaltic andesite intervals in upper subunit IVB have textures suggesting emplacement as intrusions into unconsolidated sediment on a volcanic center with geochemical and petrological characteristics of mafic, differentiated island arc magmatism. Distinctive Hf-Nd isotope characteristics similar to the least-radiogenic Izu-Bonin-Mariana boninites support a relatively old age for the basaltic andesites similar to detrital amphibole dated at 47 Ma. The absence of boninites at that time may have resulted from the position of Site U1438 at a greater distance from the plate edge. The upper interval of mudstone with tuffaceous beds (subunit IVA) progresses upsection into Unit III, part of a wedge of sediment fed by growing arc-axis volcanoes to the east. At Site U1438, in what was to become a reararc position, the succession of early extensional basaltic magmatism associated with spontaneous subduction initiation is followed by a rapid transition into potentially widespread subduction-related magmatism and sedimentation prior to the onset of focused magmatism and major arc building.
Supplemental Material: Textural and geochemical window into the IDDP-1 rhyolitic melt, Krafla, Iceland, and its reaction to drilling
Authors: Saubin E. , al. et
Published: November 2020

Figures S1–S4 and Digital Material S5-1–S5-4.
Plexiform neurofibromatosis of penis: a rare presentation of type 1 neurofibromatosis
Authors: Banthia Ravi , Yadav Priyank , Agarwal Rajiv , Lal Hira
Published: November 2020

Although more than 100 cases of genitourinary neurofibromas have been reported, only 16 cases of solitary neurofibroma arising in the penis have been reported in English literature. There can be diffuse or localised pelvic involvement in cases of neurofibromatosis and sometimes these masses can extend into and disfigure the external genitalia. We report an unusual case of plexiform neurofibroma arising from penis and review the literature on penile neurofibromas.
Case of Merkel cell carcinoma in a patient with pre-existing ILD
Authors: Maniar Rohan , Anderson Michaela , Taback Bret , Khan Shaheer , McDonnell Diana , Saqi Anjali , Niedt George W , Carvajal Richard
Published: November 2020

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the skin with high rates of local recurrence and distant metastases despite treatment with traditional cytotoxic chemotherapies. The recent advances in immunotherapy, including the use of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has revolutionized treatment for this disease and resulted in durable responses for some patients. However, many patients, due to underlying conditions, have been insufficiently evaluated for potential use of immunotherapy. Here we present a case of ICB treatment with Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibition in a patient with underlying interstitial lung disease (ILD) and a new diagnosis of MCC. Through a multidisciplinary approach, we were able to maintain close monitoring with serial clinical and radiographical follow-up. The patient achieved a complete response though unrelated medical issues resulting in a treatment hold. At the last follow-up, the patient continued to experience a durable response without evidence of recurrence. This case describes the use of pembrolizumab, a PD-1 inhibitor, for the treatment of MCC in a patient with underlying ILD. The use of active surveillance with a multidisciplinary approach resulted in successful treatment of MCC without exacerbation of the underlying ILD.
Nothing to be ashamed of: sex robots for older adults with disabilities
Authors: Jecker Nancy S
Published: November 2020

This paper spotlights ways in which sexual capacities relate to central human capabilities, such as the ability to generate a personally meaningful story of one’s life; be physically, mentally and emotionally healthy; experience bodily integrity; affiliate and bond with others; feel and express a range of human emotions; and choose a plan of life. It sets forth a dignity-based argument for affording older people access to sex robots as part of reasonable efforts to support their central human capabilities at a floor level. The argument develops stepwise: (1) first, I dispel ageism and negative stereotypes about later-life sexuality, showing their deep historical roots in medicine and science; (2) second, I set forth a positive argument, grounded in capability accounts of justice, for deploying sex robots for older people with disabilities; (3) finally, after responding to objections, I conclude that sex robots are a reasonable way to support later-life sexuality for persons with disabilities. While often depicted as a product for younger, able-bodied people, this paper is a bid for reimagining sex robots as a product for older, disabled people.
Transcirculation approach for stent-assisted coiling of intracranial aneurysms: a multicenter study
Authors: Mascitelli Justin R , Levitt Michael R , Griessenauer Christoph J , Kim Louis J , Gross Bradley , Abla Adib , Winkler Ethan , Jankowitz Brian , Grandhi Ramesh , Goren Oded , Schirmer Clemens M
Published: November 2020

Background

The transcirculation approach (TCA) for stent-assisted coiling (SAC) of intracranial aneurysms may be useful for certain wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms as well as those with acute-angle efferent branches.

Objective

To describe a multicenter experience using the TCA for SAC.

Methods

A multicenter, retrospective study (2016–2020) of aneurysm treatment using SAC via the TCA. Angiographic outcome was scored using the Raymond Scale (adequate occlusion 1 and 2), and clinical outcome was scored using a modified Rankin Scale (good outcome 0–2)

Results

Twenty-nine patients with 29 aneurysms were included (62.1% female; average age 61; 89.7% unruptured; 13.8% previously treated; average dome size 6.4 mm; average neck 4.4 mm). Aneurysm locations included internal carotid artery–fetal posterior cerebral artery (n=4), internal carotid artery terminus (n=4), anterior communicating artery (n=8), vertebral artery–posterior inferior cerebellar artery (n=2), and basilar tip (n=11). The TCA used communicating arteries (93.1%; average 1.6 mm), intermediate catheters (51.7%), jailing technique (62.1%), and staged procedures (10.3%). The most common stent was the Neuroform Atlas (Stryker; 69%). Immediate adequate occlusion was obtained in 75.9%, and five patients with inadequate occlusion progressed to adequate occlusion at follow-up. One (3.4%) procedural complication occurred: a watershed stroke in the setting of baseline four-vessel extracranial disease. Two patients had a poor outcome unrelated to the TCA. The majority of patients (86.4%) had a good clinical outcome. One case of in-stent stenosis due to non-compliance with medication was seen, which resolved with medication resumption.

Conclusions

The TCA for SAC can be performed for a variety of aneurysms with a low complication rate and good clinical outcomes.
Changes in prolonged sedentary behaviour across the transition to retirement
Authors: Suorsa Kristin , Pulakka Anna , Leskinen Tuija , Pentti Jaana , Vahtera Jussi , Stenholm Sari
Published: November 2020

Background

Prolonged sedentary behaviour is associated with a higher risk of cardiometabolic diseases. This longitudinal study examined changes in daily total, prolonged (≥30 min) and highly prolonged (≥60 min) sedentary time across the transition to retirement by gender and occupational status.

Methods

We included 689 aging workers (mean (SD) age before retirement 63.2 (1.6) years, 85% women) from the Finnish Retirement and Aging Study (FIREA). Sedentary time was measured annually using a wrist-worn triaxial ActiGraph accelerometer before and after retirement with on average 3.4 (range 2–4) measurement points.

Results

Women increased daily total sedentary time by 22 min (95% CI 13 to 31), prolonged sedentary time by 34 min (95% CI 27 to 42) and highly prolonged sedentary time by 15 min (95% CI 11 to 20) in the transition to retirement, and remained at the higher level of sedentary time years after retirement. The highest increase in total and prolonged sedentary time was observed among women retiring from manual occupations. Men had more total and prolonged sedentary time compared with women before and after retirement. Although no changes in men’s sedentary time were observed during the retirement transition, there was a gradual increase of 33 min (95% CI 6 to 60) in prolonged sedentary time from pre-retirement years to post-retirement years.

Conclusion

The transition to retirement was accompanied by an abrupt increase in prolonged sedentary time in women but a more gradual increase in men. The retirement transition may be a suitable time period for interventions aiming to decrease sedentary behaviour.
Night shift work is associated with an increased risk of asthma
Authors: Maidstone Robert J , Turner James , Vetter Celine , Dashti Hassan S , Saxena Richa , Scheer Frank A J L , Shea Steven A , Kyle Simon D , Lawlor Deborah A , Loudon Andrew S I , Blaikley John F , Rutter Martin K , Ray David W , Durrington Hannah Jane
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Shift work causes misalignment between internal circadian time and the external light/dark cycle and is associated with metabolic disorders and cancer. Approximately 20% of the working population in industrialised countries work permanent or rotating night shifts, exposing this large population to the risk of circadian misalignment-driven disease. Analysis of the impact of shift work on chronic inflammatory diseases is lacking. We investigated the association between shift work and asthma.

Methods

We describe the cross-sectional relationship between shift work and prevalent asthma in >280000 UK Biobank participants, making adjustments for major confounding factors (smoking history, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, physical activity, body mass index). We also investigated chronotype.

Results

Compared with day workers, ‘permanent’ night shift workers had a higher likelihood of moderate-severe asthma (OR 1.23 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.46)). Individuals doing any type of shift work had higher adjusted odds of wheeze/whistling in the chest. Shift workers who never or rarely worked on nights and people working permanent nights had a higher adjusted likelihood of having reduced lung function (FEV1<80% predicted). We found an increase in the risk of moderate-severe asthma in individuals with extreme chronotypes (morning, OR 1.55 (95% CI 1.06 to 2.27) or evening, OR 1.31 (95%CI 1.22 to 1.40)).

Conclusions

The public health implications of these findings are far-reaching due to the high prevalence and co-occurrence of both asthma and shift work. Future longitudinal follow-up studies are needed to determine if modifying shift work schedules to take into account chronotype might present a public health measure to reduce the risk of developing inflammatory diseases such as asthma.
Accuracy assessment of late winter snow depth mapping for tundra environments using Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry
Authors: Walker Branden , Wilcox Evan J. , Marsh Philip
Published: November 2020

Arctic tundra environments are characterized by a spatially heterogeneous end-of-winter snow depth resulting from wind transport and deposition. Traditional methods for measuring snow depth do not accurately capture such heterogeneity at catchment scales. In this study we address the use of high-resolution, spatially distributed, snow depth data for Arctic environments through the application of unmanned aerial systems (UASs). We apply Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry to images collected using a fixed-wing UAS to produce a 1 m resolution snow depth product across seven areas of interest (AOIs) within the Trail Valley Creek Research Watershed, Northwest Territories, Canada. We evaluated these snow depth products with in situ measurements of both the snow surface elevation (n = 8434) and snow depth (n = 7191). When all AOIs were averaged, the RMSE of the snow surface elevation models was 0.16 m (<0.01 m bias), similar to the snow depth product (UASSD) RMSE of 0.15 m (+0.04 m bias). The distribution of snow depth between in situ measurements and UASSD was similar along the transects where in situ snow depth was collected, although similarity varies by AOI. Finally, we provide a discussion of factors that may influence the accuracy of the snow depth products including vegetation, environmental conditions, and study design.
INTER-ORGANISATIONAL COLLABORATION AND BUSINESS MODEL INNOVATION: THE JOINT MODERATING EFFECTS OF ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY AND COLLABORATION DEPTH
Authors: YU JUN , LI XINRUI , MA ZHENGCONG
Published: November 2020

Informed by the knowledge-based theory of the firm, the study explores how internal absorptive capacity and external inter-organisational collaboration jointly promote business model innovation (BMI). Drawing on the relevant existing literature, a model linking collaboration breadth, collaboration depth, absorptive capacity, and BMI was constructed and tested. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis of the results of a questionnaire-based survey of 317 senior managers in manufacturing firms revealed that both collaboration breadth and collaboration depth are positively related to BMI. Collaboration depth has no significant moderating effect on the collaboration breadth–BMI relationship, and absorptive capacity has no significant moderating effect on relations between BMI and collaboration breadth or collaboration depth. However, the joint moderating effects of absorptive capacity and collaboration depth on the collaboration breadth–BMI relationship were positively significant. These results have a number of implications for research on BMI and innovation management and for the development of knowledge-based theory.
AN APPROACH TO THE COOPERATION FOR INNOVATION IN THE SERVICE SECTOR
Authors: DE ARROYABE JUAN CARLOS FERNANDEZ , ARRANZ NIEVES , KIM YOUNG-AH
Published: November 2020

This study examines how firms cooperate for innovation in the services sector. We tested the theoretical development using cluster analysis and ordinal logit regression analysis with firm-level data collected from the Spanish Technological Innovation Panel (PITEC) for the period 2011–2013. Overall, 2,622 service firms have been used. This research contributes as follows: first, the findings show that the greater degree of penetration into the innovation modes of the firms means that the intensity of the use of cooperative agreements as well as the diversity of cooperative partners increases. Second, the empirical evidence for the taxonomy of innovation development in the service sector provides firms with the ways how to innovate based on their strategic orientation.
Computing S-unit groups of orders
Authors: Schönnenbeck Sebastian
Published: November 2020

Based on the general strategy described by Borel and Serre and the Voronoi algorithm for computing unit groups of orders we present an algorithm for finding presentations of [Formula: see text]-unit groups of orders. The algorithm is then used for some investigations concerning the congruence subgroup property.
Images of Galois representations in mod p Hecke algebras
Authors: Amorós Laia
Published: November 2020

Let [Formula: see text] denote the mod [Formula: see text] local Hecke algebra attached to a normalized Hecke eigenform [Formula: see text], which is a commutative algebra over some finite field [Formula: see text] of characteristic [Formula: see text] and with residue field [Formula: see text]. By a result of Carayol we know that, if the residual Galois representation [Formula: see text] is absolutely irreducible, then one can attach to this algebra a Galois representation [Formula: see text] that is a lift of [Formula: see text]. We will show how one can determine the image of [Formula: see text] under the assumptions that (i) the image of the residual representation contains [Formula: see text], (ii) [Formula: see text] and (iii) the coefficient ring is generated by the traces. As an application we will see that the methods that we use allow to deduce the existence of certain [Formula: see text]-elementary abelian extensions of big non-solvable number fields.
High Activity and Easily Hydrolyzable Sulfonylurea Inhibitor Design Based on Density Functional Theory Calculations
Authors: Yan Sitong , Lin Xiaoxiong , Wen Zhenhao , Xiao Junping , Liang Huangbing , Liu Yali , Wang Mingliang , Zhu Caizhen , Xu Jian
Published: November 2020

To find new sulfonylurea inhibitors with high efficacy and fast hydrolysis degradation rate, a few compounds were first designed based on the commercial product Chlorimuron-Ethyl (CE) by estimating the binding interaction between the inhibitor and the Acetohydroxyacid Synthase (AHAS) using the quantum mechanical approach. Meanwhile, the activation energy barriers of hydrolysis for the sulfonylurea inhibitors with the amino and nitro groups onto para position of the benzene ring were calculated. Based on the calculated binding interaction energy and hydrolysis energy barrier, six new sulfonylurea inhibitors I1–I6 were designed and synthesized. By measuring the half-lives through hydrolysis degradation assay, it was indicated that the compounds I1–I3 with the introduction of an amino group at the fourth position of benzene ring show much faster degradation rate than those compounds with nitro groups, which is in a good agreement with the calculated results for hydrolysis barrier. The herbicide activity tests show that the compounds I1 and I2 remained excellent herbicidal activity on both broadleaf weeds with soil treatment at a concentration about 150[Formula: see text]mg/l. Due to their short half-lives of chemical hydrolysis and high herbicidal activities, compounds I1 and I2 could be potential herbicidal candidates in the future, which are helpful for the sustainable development of the environment and ecology.
Selected Tools for Assessing the Risk of Falls in Older Women
Authors: Bobowik Patrycja , Wiszomirska Ida , Leś Anna , Kaczmarczyk Katarzyna
Published: November 2020

Background and Aim. This study is aimed at comparing the Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go (TUG), and a modified Unterberger test with stabilographic parameters (Biodex Balance System—BBS), to assess fall risk (FR) in older women. Methods. Fifty‐five females were examined (May 2018‐June 2019). Stabilographic examinations were performed with eyes open (EO) and closed (EC). An analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Spearman rank correlation were performed to determine the relationships and differences between the above tests. Results. The results of the TUG correlate with the overall stability index (OSI) EO (r = 0.314), medial‐lateral stability index (MLSI) EO (r = 0.297), and fall risk index (FRI6‐2; r = 0.435) in stabilographic examinations and the FRT (r = −0.399). The results of the modified Unterberger test correlate with MLSI EO (r = 0.276), OSI EC (r = 0.310), and MLSI EC (r = 0.378). There are statistically significant differences between faller and nonfaller groups in TUG (p = 0.0068), FRT (p = 0.001), and MLSI EO (p = 0.0118). Conclusions. The modified Unterberger test and TUG can be considered effective in functional FR assessment in older women. Using at least two different functional tests may improve the assessment of FR.