bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resource Support of Audit Services Quality
Authors: Goltyhova Yuliya
Published: June 2021

Th e article considers the study of the resource potential of the audit organization, the reasonable and balanced use of which will allow to organize and maintain the eff ective functioning of the internal audit quality control system.
Comprehension strategies
Authors: Everett Ruth
Published: June 2021

Never assume they know how to do it. Ruth Everett looks at how all teachers can use questioning and the art of summarisation to support deep literacy comprehension
Conversations about staff mental health…
Authors: Sayer Amy
Published: June 2021

Opening up about mental health can be daunting and can make a person feel vulnerable. Amy Sayer advises on how to handle these conversations to ensure the best outcomes
A qualitative study of parents’ and their child’s experience of a medial epicondyle fracture
Authors: Papiez Kinga , Tutton Elizabeth , Phelps Emma E. , Baird Janis , Costa Matthew L. , Achten Juul , Gibson Phoebe , Perry Daniel C.
Published: June 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore parents and young people’s experience of having a medial epicondyle fracture, and their thoughts about the uncertainty regarding the optimal treatment.

Methods

Families were identified after being invited to participate in a randomized controlled trial of surgery or no surgery for displaced medial epicondyle fractures of the humerus in children. A purposeful sample of 25 parents (22 females) and five young people (three females, mean age 11 years (7 to 14)) from 15 UK hospitals were interviewed a mean of 39 days (14 to 78) from injury. Qualitative interviews were informed by phenomenology and themes identified to convey participants’ experience.

Results

The results identify parents’ desire to do the best for their child expressed through two themes: 1) ‘uncertainty’ (being uncertain about the best treatment option); and 2) ‘facilitating recovery’ (sharing the experience). Parents and young people were shocked when confronted with uncertainty about treatment and they felt responsible for the decision. They searched for further information, drew on their own experience, and struggled to weigh up risks of the treatments. Discussion with surgeons provided crucial support for decision-making, and young people were involved to a varying degree. In facilitating recovery, parents balanced increasing activity with protecting their child, but lacked knowledge about pain management, and how to improve strength and function of the arm. They hoped for a return to normal, including competitive sports.

Conclusion

Surgeons are aware of the impact of injury on children and their parents; however, they may be less aware of the turmoil created by treatment uncertainty. Confident surgeons who appreciate and contextualize the importance of pre-existing experience and beliefs are best placed to help the family develop confidence to embrace uncertainty, particularly regarding participation in clinical trials. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(6):359–364.
Field Performance Evaluation of Pulse-Width Modulation and Pressure-Controlled, Fixed-Orifice Application Systems for Sensor-Based Nitrogen Applications
Authors: Stansell Jackson S , Teten Samantha L , Marx Samuel E , Luck Joe D
Published: June 2021

Highlights

Comparison of PC system and PWM system in-field performance indicated that the PWM system made sensor-based N applications more accurately than the PC system.

The turndown ratio calculated from the aggregate application instances was 6.2:1.

For both the PWM system and the PC system, applications were made more accurately when 28% UAN was applied rather than 32% UAN.

Abstract. Sensor-based nitrogen (N) applications have shown promise for improving N use efficiency, but present significant challenges for application rate control due to highly variable and frequently changing target rates. If applications are to be made precisely, equipment systems used for sensor-based N applications must be designed to meet system demands. Pulse-width modulation (PWM) equipped systems have emerged as a technological advancement over traditional pressure-controlled (PC) systems for improving variable rate N application accuracy. Little research, however, has been done to assess the performance of PWM systems during sensor-based N applications in-field. This work analyzed as-applied data collected from in-field sensor-based N applications with pressure-controlled (PC) and PWM systems in Nebraska between 2015 and 2017 to quantify system requirements, assess system performance, and determine performance impacting operational variables. It was found that systems should be capable of 1-s rate changes of ±71.1 L ha-1 (7.6 gpa), 1-s flow rate changes of ±11.4 L min-1 (3 gpm), and turndown ratios of at least 6:1. PWM systems achieved application rates within 10% of the target rate 10% more often than PC systems, and showed less variability in application error. However, PWM systems still demonstrated significant application errors with an observed RMSE of 44.9 L ha-1 (4.8 gpa). Speed change magnitude was found to be most associated with increases in percent application error. These findings substantiate that PWM systems effectively improve sensor-based N application accuracy versus traditional PC systems. However, collaborative efforts toward greater cohesion between sensor-based application expectations and application equipment capabilities are necessary for maximizing the effectiveness of sensor-based N applications. Keywords: Precision agriculture, Rate controllers, Site-specific crop management, Sprayer, Turndown ratio.
Investigating the Wettability of Rapeseed Leaves
Authors: He Yong , Wu Jianjian , Xiao Shupei , Fang Hui , Zheng Qishuai
Published: June 2021

Highlights

Contact angles of spray droplets were positively correlated with their surface tension.

Wettability of rape leaves was generally poor for most pesticides.

Surface structure and free energy determine the hydrophobicity of rape leaves.

The size of the spray droplets had no significant influence on rape leaf wettability.

Abstract. In order to improve the deposition and adherence of spray droplets on leaf surfaces, the wettability of rapeseed leaves was investigated. We explored the effect of different pesticides and test surfaces on droplet contact angles, and analyzed the effects of leaf surface properties, droplet sizes and the addition of organosilicone adjuvant on wettability. The results indicated that contact angles of different liquids were positively correlated with their surface tension for rapeseed leaves. The wettability of rapeseed leaves was generally poor using different pesticides, but was highest for a fungicide mixture of difenoconazole and propiconazole. The hydrophobicity of rapeseed leaves is largely determined by the complex microstructure and the low surface free energy of the leaves. The size of the spray droplets had no significant influence on the wettability. Moreover, the addition of an organosilicone adjuvant significantly reduced the surface tension of all spray droplets, with the best result for a 50% procymidone solution. In conclusion, the factors affecting rapeseed leaf surface wettability should be considered comprehensively before selecting the appropriate pesticide, so as to improve its utilization rates. Keywords: Contact angle, Leaf surface, Pesticide application, Spray droplet.
First Record of the Soil-feeding Higher Termites (Isoptera: Termitidae) from Okinawa Island, the Central Ryukyus, Japan
Authors: Nozaki Tomonari , Hojo Masaru , Yashiro Toshihisa , Matsuura Kenji
Published: June 2021

Some of termites have been introduced outside their native ranges, and it has been suggested that both wood-eating and wood-nesting lifestyles are critical for the transportation of propagules. Here, we present the first record of the soil-feeding and soil-nesting termite Pericapritermes nitobei (Isoptera: Termitidae) in the Motobu Peninsula on the northern part of Okinawa Island in the Central Ryukyus. The fact that the previous extensive surveys of termites in the Ryukyu Archipelago did not detect P. nitobei in the Central Ryukyus, including the Motobu Peninsula, and its discontinuous distribution, indicate that P. nitobei has been recently introduced into the Motobu Peninsula of Okinawa Island from the Yaeyama Islands, similar to the fungus-growing and soil-nesting termite Odontotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Termitidae). Together with O. formosanus in the southern part of Okinawa Island, our findings in this study raise the possibility that non-wood-feeding and non-wood-nesting termites can be introduced and established outside their native ranges by human activities.
Children: paying the price of Bolsonaro’s social policy reform in Brazil
Authors: da Silva Barbosa Rafael , Spolander Gary , Garcia Maria Lúcia Teixeira
Published: June 2021

The impact of social inequality on children has enormous implications for young people throughout their life journey by negatively impacting their health, well-being and life chances. Following the democratisation of Brazil, significant change resulted in improvements to the social welfare and health care systems, which had begun to address long-standing social and health problems. This article critically explores the implications of current retrograde right-wing populist political government policies for Brazilian children within the context of efforts to reduce income inequality and improve the life chances of children. While recognising the enormous challenges of poverty, racial discrimination, precarity and socio-economic conditions, social work has recognised that the enactment of the profession requires political engagement and action against all inequality in professional practice. The implications of retrogressive policy are explored, and the authors call upon the profession globally to recognise these structural socio-economic challenges and question whether social work can afford not to be engaged in seeking change.
Approaches to low-cost infrared sensing
Authors: Reyner Charles J. , Ariyawansa Gamini , Claflin Bruce , Duran Joshua M. , Grzybowski Gordon J.
Published: June 2021

The Air Force Research Laboratory’s Sensors Directorate has multiple missions, including the development of next generation infrared sensors. These sensors reflect advancements in both academic and research communities, as well as requirements flow-down from operators. There has been a multitude of developments over the past decade in each community. However, there has also been consilience that low-cost infrared sensing will be necessary for the Air Force. This paradigm stands in contrast to the current generation of high performance infrared sensors, i.e., cryogenically cooled, hybridized HgCdTe, InSb, and III/V strained layer superlattices. The Sensors Directorate currently has a multi-pronged approach to low-cost infrared sensing to meet this paradigm shift, including research in silicides, SiGeSn, and lead salts. Each of these approaches highlights our integration of materials, devices, and characterization.
Sandwiched photonic crystal fiber for dispersion compensation over the S + C + L + U wavelength bands
Authors: Sun Weiyu , Qu Yuheng , Cao Jiashuai , Jia Hongzhi
Published: June 2021

We numerically investigated a sandwiched photonic crystal fiber (S-PCF) based on triangular lattice air holes that can be used for broadband dispersion compensation. By adjusting two layers of air holes diameter in the cladding, the S-PCF performs a large negative dispersion curve that can compensate for the dispersion of a standard single-mode fiber (SMF). The kappa value of the proposed PCF is also consistent with that of the SMF at the wavelength of 1.55 µm. In addition, the dispersion compensation multiple reaches up to 25.37. We have successfully obtained an effective compensated dispersion with the value of

−

0.5

to

+

0.1

p
s

/

n
m

/

k
m

in the wavelength of 1.46–1.67 µm, which covers the

S

+

C

+

L

+

U

wavelength bands. Moreover, we considered the manufacturing tolerance of the dispersion and effective compensated dispersion with

±
2

%

and

±
5

%

variation.
Utilizing the moiré deflectometry-based detection method improves the detection sensitivity for gold nanoparticles trapped by optical tweezers
Authors: Khorshad Ali Akbar , Reihani S. Nader S.
Published: June 2021

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are very often used as handles for nanotechnological micromanipulation. In this regard, optical trapping of GNPs is of great importance, in which locating the trapped GNP within the focal spot with nanometer precision is crucial. Very recently, we have introduced a new position detection system for optical tweezers based on moiré deflectometry (MD). Here we show, both theoretically and experimentally, that an MD detection system could provide significantly larger detection sensitivity for a trapped GNP compared to that provided by conventional back focal plane (BFP) detection systems. For instance, for a trapped 200 nm GNP, the detection sensitivity provided by the MD detection method is 280% better than that provided by the BFP detection method.
Heralded high-fidelity quantum hyper-CNOT gates assisted by charged quantum dots inside single-sided optical microcavities
Authors: Han Yu-Hong , Cao Cong , Fan Ling , Zhang Ru
Published: June 2021

Photonic hyper-parallel quantum information processing (QIP) can simplify the quantum circuit and improve the information-processing speed, as well as reduce the quantum resource consumption and suppress the photonic dissipation noise. Here, utilizing the singly charged semiconductor quantum dot (QD) inside single-sided optical microcavity as the potentially experimental platform, we propose five schemes for heralded four-qubit hyper-controlled-not (hyper-CNOT) gates, covering all cases of four-qubit hyper-CNOT gates operated on both the polarization and spatial-mode degrees of freedom (DoFs) of a two-photon system. The novel heralding mechanism improves the fidelity of each hyper-CNOT gate to unity in principle without the strict restriction of strong coupling. The adaptability and scalability of the schemes make the hyper-CNOT gates more accessible under current experimental technologies. These heralded high-fidelity photonic hyper-CNOT gates can therefore have immense utilization potentials in high-capacity quantum communication and fast quantum computing, which are of far-reaching significance for QIP.
Generalized optical design and optimization of multipass cells with independent circle patterns based on the Monte Carlo and Nelder-Mead simplex algorithms
Authors: Liu Jiahao , Chen Yuze , Xu Lin , Kong Rong , Liu Peng , Zhou Xin
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we propose an automatic approach to optimize the multipass cell (MPC) design with independent circle patterns. First, the Monte Carlo algorithm is performed to globally search for the characteristic values of the distance between two mirrors. Second, the Nelder-Mead simplex (NM) algorithm is applied to locally optimize the re-entry condition. In addition, we utilize the clustering method to select the independent circle patterns automatically. Three optimal MPCs with five, seven and nine independent circles are built and tested experimentally. We analyze the stability of the final point for the MPCs and optimize the quality of the output beam based on multi-ray tracing. This type of MPC shows the superior characteristics of compactness, high detection sensitivity, and affordability, has various applications, and can promote the development of portable gas sensors. The proposed approach is effective and efficient for automatically optimizing MPC design and can be further extended to versatile optical designs.
Compact quantum random number generation using a linear optocoupler
Authors: Hu Ying-Ying , Ding Yu-Yang , Wang Shuang , Yin Zhen-Qiang , Chen Wei , He De-Yong , Huang Wei , Xu Bing-Jie , Guo Guang-Can , Han Zheng-Fu
Published: June 2021

To date, various quantum random number schemes have been demonstrated. However, the cost, size, and final random bit generation rate usually limits their wide application on-shelf. To overcome these limitations, we propose and demonstrate a compact, simple, and low-cost quantum random number generation based on a linear optocoupler. Its integrated structure consists mainly of a light emitting diode and a photodetector. Random bits are generated by directly measuring the intensity noise of the output light, which originates from the random recombination between holes of the p region and electrons of the n region in a light emitting diode. Moreover, our system is robust against fluctuation of the operating environment, and can be extended to a parallel structure, which will be of great significance for the practical and commercial application of quantum random number generation. After post-processing by the SHA-256 algorithm, a random number generation rate of 43 Mbps is obtained. Finally, the final random bit sequences have low autocorrelation coefficients with a standard deviation of

3.16
×

10

−
4

and pass the NIST-Statistical Test Suite test.
Simple method for high beam quality laser resonator design
Authors: Wen Qiao , Liang Zongsen , Liang Guowen , Li Ji
Published: June 2021

We present a simple method for designing a high beam quality laser resonator, in which the astigmatism in all of the arms is facilely compensated, for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The analytical expressions for astigmatism compensation are also derived. A folded resonator is designed using these analytical expressions, in which the astigmatic aberration of all the arms is completely eliminated. The theoretical research results show that not only the spot intensity profile’s deformation but also the phase distortion in all the arms of the laser resonator can be simultaneously and completely compensated.
Intrinsic connectivity reveals functionally distinct cortico-hippocampal networks in the human brain
Authors: Barnett Alexander J. , Reilly Walter , Dimsdale-Zucker Halle R. , Mizrak Eda , Reagh Zachariah , Ranganath Charan
Published: June 2021

Episodic memory depends on interactions between the hippocampus and interconnected neocortical regions. Here, using data-driven analyses of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data, we identified the networks that interact with the hippocampus—the default mode network (DMN) and a “medial temporal network” (MTN) that included regions in the medial temporal lobe (MTL) and precuneus. We observed that the MTN plays a critical role in connecting the visual network to the DMN and hippocampus. The DMN could be further divided into 3 subnetworks: a “posterior medial” (PM) subnetwork comprised of posterior cingulate and lateral parietal cortices; an “anterior temporal” (AT) subnetwork comprised of regions in the temporopolar and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex; and a “medial prefrontal” (MP) subnetwork comprised of regions primarily in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). These networks vary in their functional connectivity (FC) along the hippocampal long axis and represent different kinds of information during memory-guided decision-making. Finally, a Neurosynth meta-analysis of fMRI studies suggests new hypotheses regarding the functions of the MTN and DMN subnetworks, providing a framework to guide future research on the neural architecture of episodic memory.
The nonreceptor tyrosine kinase SRMS inhibits autophagy and promotes tumor growth by phosphorylating the scaffolding protein FKBP51
Authors: Park Jung Mi , Yang Seung Wook , Zhuang Wei , Bera Asim K. , Liu Yan , Gurbani Deepak , von Hoyningen-Huene Sergei J. , Sakurada Sadie Miki , Gan Haiyun , Pruett-Miller Shondra M. , Westover Kenneth D. , Potts Malia B.
Published: June 2021

Nutrient-responsive protein kinases control the balance between anabolic growth and catabolic processes such as autophagy. Aberrant regulation of these kinases is a major cause of human disease. We report here that the vertebrate nonreceptor tyrosine kinase Src-related kinase lacking C-terminal regulatory tyrosine and N-terminal myristylation sites (SRMS) inhibits autophagy and promotes growth in a nutrient-responsive manner. Under nutrient-replete conditions, SRMS phosphorylates the PHLPP scaffold FK506-binding protein 51 (FKBP51), disrupts the FKBP51-PHLPP complex, and promotes FKBP51 degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. This prevents PHLPP-mediated dephosphorylation of AKT, causing sustained AKT activation that promotes growth and inhibits autophagy. SRMS is amplified and overexpressed in human cancers where it drives unrestrained AKT signaling in a kinase-dependent manner. SRMS kinase inhibition activates autophagy, inhibits cancer growth, and can be accomplished using the FDA-approved tyrosine kinase inhibitor ibrutinib. This illuminates SRMS as a targetable vulnerability in human cancers and as a new target for pharmacological induction of autophagy in vertebrates.
Effects of a period without mandatory physical training on maximum oxygen uptake and anthropometric parameters in naval cadets
Authors: Huerta Ojeda Álvaro , Barahona-Fuentes Guillermo , Galdames Maliqueo Sergio
Published: June 2021

The effects of a period without physical training on the civilian population are well established. However, no studies show the effects of a period without mandatory physical training on maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and anthropometric parameters in naval cadets. This study aimed to investigate changes in VO2 max and anthropometric parameters after 12 weeks without mandatory physical training in naval cadets. The sample was 38 healthy and physically active naval cadets. The measured variables, including VO2 max and anthropometric parameters, were evaluated through the 12-minute race test (12MRT) and the somatotype. Both variables had a separation of 12 weeks without mandatory physical training. A t-test for related samples was used to evidence changes between the test and post-test; effect size was calculated through Cohen’s d-test. Distance in 12MRT and VO2 max showed significant decreases at the end of 12 weeks without mandatory physical training (p < 0.001). Likewise, the tricipital skinfold thickness and the endomorphic component showed significant increases (p < 0.05). 12 weeks without mandatory physical training significantly reduces the VO2 max in naval cadets. Simultaneously, the same period without physical training increases both the tricipital skinfold thickness and the endomorphic component in this population.
Neighborhood environmental attributes and walking mobility decline: A longitudinal ecological study of mid-to-older aged Australian adults
Authors: Sugiyama Takemi , Sugiyama Masaaki , Mavoa Suzanne , Barnett Anthony , Kamruzzaman Md. , Turrell Gavin
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Cross-sectional studies have found some built environmental attributes to be associated with residents’ lower levels of mobility (functional capacity to walk outside the home). However, less is known about what environmental attributes are related to mobility decline. This longitudinal study examined area-level associations of specific environmental attributes with mid-to-older aged adults’ changes in walking mobility.

Methods

Data collected from 4,088 adults (aged 46–71 years at baseline) who participated in a cohort study in Brisbane, Australia were used. The outcome was the change in self-reported mobility score (SF-36) from 2013 to 2016, which were aggregated at the neighborhood (N = 156) and suburb (N = 99) levels, due to the known lack of sensitivity in SF-36 subscales to individual changes. Linear regression analysis examined associations of mobility change with seven environmental attributes measured at baseline (residential density, intersection density, land use mix, density of walking/bike paths, park density, bus stop density, density of social incivilities), adjusting for confounding variables.

Results

Participants on average reported 4% of mobility decline during the 3-year study period. It was found that greater land use diversity was consistently associated with less decline in walking mobility, while greater density of social incivilities was associated with more decline in walking mobility. The latter finding was significant only at the neighborhood level. No consistent associations were observed for residential density, intersection density, density of walking/bike paths, park density, and bus stop density.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that mid-to-older aged adults who live in areas with lower land use diversity and more social incivilities may be at risk of developing mobility limitations. Recommended policies to slow residents’ mobility decline and to achieve aging in place include improving these environmental attributes where needed and advising older adults to relocate to safer, mixed-use neighborhoods.
Analysis on the hidden cost of prefabricated buildings based on FISM-BN
Authors: Peng Junlong , Zhou Jing , Meng Fanyi , Yu Yan
Published: June 2021

Facing the pressure of environment, sustainable development is the demand of the current construction industry development. Prefabricated construction technologies has been actively promoted in China. Cost has always been one of the important factors in the development of prefabricated buildings. The hidden cost of prefabricated buildings has a great impact on the total cost of the project, and it exists in the whole process of building construction. In this paper innovatively studies the cost of prefabricated buildings from the perspective of hidden cost. In order to analysis the hidden cost of prefabricated buildings, the influencing factor index system in terms of design, management, technology, policy and environment has been established, which includes 13 factors in total. And the hidden cost analysis model has been proposed based on FISM-BN, this model combines fuzzy interpretive structure model(FISM) with Bayesian network(BN). This model can comprehensively analyze the hidden cost through the combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. And the analysis process is dynamic, not fixed at a certain point in time to analyze the cost. We can get the internal logical relationship among the influencing factors of the hidden cost, and present it in the form of intuitive chart by FISM-BN. Furthermore the model could not only predict the probability of the hidden cost of prefabricated buildings and realize in-time control through causal reasoning, but also predict the posterior probability of other influencing factors through diagnostic reasoning when the hidden cost occurs and find out the key factors that lead to the hidden cost. Then the final influencing factors are determined after one by one check. Finally, the model is demonstrated on the hidden cost analysis of prefabricated buildings the probability of recessive cost is 26%. In the analysis and control of the hidden cost of prefabricated buildings, scientific and effective decision-making and reference opinions are provided for managers.
Psychographic variables, tourist behaviour and vandalism in the South-East Asian tourism sector
Authors: Bhati Abhishek
Published: June 2021

This study examines multi-stakeholders’ perceptions of vandalism at tourist attractions in two Asian cities: Bangkok and Singapore. It provides an opportunity to explore the differences and similarities in stakeholder attitudes towards attraction management and reveals desired levels of participation of community in managing vandalism in tourism. This mixed method research employs community survey and interviews of site managers and government officials as its main data collection approach. It also offers an innovative approach to data analysis using the severity and optimist/pessimist psychographic variables coupled with quantitative analytical techniques. The results reveal complex relationship between psychographic profiles, future and current time dimensions, and location. In conclusion, the study offers several recommendations to city managers and policymakers on methods of vandalism control. It also highlights the importance of cultural context and its influence on community involvement. While this study is limited to tourism attractions, it provides a solid foundation for future research, one that can extend into urban planning and public policy design.
The association between diet and mental health and wellbeing in young adults within a biopsychosocial framework
Authors: Rossa-Roccor Verena , Richardson Chris G. , Murphy Rachel A. , Gadermann Anne M.
Published: June 2021

Objective

Predominantly plant-based diets can co-benefit human physical health and the planet. Young adults appear to be on the forefront of the shift to plant-based diets. However, little is known about the relationship between plant-based diets and mental health in this population even though mental health disorders contribute substantially to the global burden of disease, particularly among this age group.

Design

In this cross-sectional study we utilize a biopsychosocial framework to assess the association between dietary intake and mental health and wellbeing. Mental health was assessed using self-reported measures of anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9) and quality of life (single-item). Dietary intake in the prior month was assessed using a dietary screener (DSQ) and participants were asked to self-identify a diet preference (e.g., vegan).

Setting and participants

339 university undergraduate students.

Results

A principal component analysis of dietary intake found three dominant dietary patterns (plant-based, animal-based, and ‘junk foods’); 28.1% (n = 95) of participants self-identified as pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, other. The association between dietary patterns, diet preference and mental health was assessed through regression analysis. After controlling for covariables, we found a significant positive association between the junk food component and depression (z-score β = .21, p≤.001; adj. R2 = .39) and anxiety (z-score β = .14; p≤.001; adj. R2 = .32) while no association was found between plant-based, animal-based or self-identified diet preference and the mental health measures.

Conclusions

We did not find a negative association between predominantly plant-based diet patterns and mental health and wellbeing. It is important to consider dietary composition and to conceptualize diet as a health behaviour that is embedded in a biopsychosocial framework.
Biochemical characterization of a recombinant acid phosphatase from Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Smiley-Moreno Elizabeth , Smith Douglas , Yu Jieh-Juen , Cao Phuong , Arulanandam Bernard P. , Chambers James P.
Published: June 2021

Genomic sequence analysis of Acinetobacter baumannii revealed the presence of a putative Acid Phosphatase (AcpA; EC 3.1.3.2). A plasmid construct was made, and recombinant protein (rAcpA) was expressed in E. coli. PAGE analysis (carried out under denaturing/reducing conditions) of nickel-affinity purified protein revealed the presence of a near-homogeneous band of approximately 37 kDa. The identity of the 37 kDa species was verified as rAcpA by proteomic analysis with a molecular mass of 34.6 kDa from the deduced sequence. The dependence of substrate hydrolysis on pH was broad with an optimum observed at 6.0. Kinetic analysis revealed relatively high affinity for PNPP (Km = 90 μM) with Vmax, kcat, and Kcat/Km values of 19.2 pmoles s-1, 4.80 s-1(calculated on the basis of 37 kDa), and 5.30 x 104 M-1s-1, respectively. Sensitivity to a variety of reagents, i.e., detergents, reducing, and chelating agents as well as classic acid phosphatase inhibitors was examined in addition to assessment of hydrolysis of a number of phosphorylated compounds. Removal of phosphate from different phosphorylated compounds is supportive of broad, i.e., ‘nonspecific’ substrate specificity; although, the enzyme appears to prefer phosphotyrosine and/or peptides containing phosphotyrosine in comparison to serine and threonine. Examination of the primary sequence indicated the absence of signature sequences characteristic of Type A, B, and C nonspecific bacterial acid phosphatases.
HIV testing in patients who are HCV positive: Compliance with CDC guidelines in a large healthcare system
Authors: Fleisher Ilan , Geboy Alexander G. , Nichols Whitney , Desale Sameer , Fernandez Stephen , Basch Peter , Fishbein Dawn A.
Published: June 2021

Background

There are approximately 300,000 people in the United States who are co-infected with HIV and HCV. Several organizations recommend that individuals who are HCV infected, as well as persons over the age of 13, should be HIV tested. Comorbidities associated with HCV can be reduced with early identification of HIV. Our objective was to determine whether providers routinely followed HIV testing guidelines for patients who tested HCV positive (HCV+).

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients in primary care at an academic health system from 7/2015–3/2017 who tested HCV+. As part of a primary database, HCV testing data was collected; HIV testing data was abstracted manually. We collected and described the intervals between HCV and HIV tests. To determine associations with HIV testing univariable and multivariable analyses were performed.

Results

We identified 445 patients who tested HCV+: 56.6% were tested for HIV, the mean age was 57 ± 10.9 years, 77% were from the Birth Cohort born 1945–1965 (BC); 61% were male; and 51% were Black/AA. Patients in the BC were more likely to be HIV tested if they were: male (p = 0.019), Black/AA (p<0.001), and had Medicaid (p = 0.005). These differences were not found in the non-BC. Six patients who were tested for both HIV and HCV were found to be newly HIV positive at the time of testing.

Conclusion

As demonstrated, providers did not routinely follow CDC recommendations as almost half of the HCV+ patients were not correctly tested for HIV. It is important to emphasize that six persons were tested HIV positive simultaneously with their HCV+ diagnosis. If providers did not follow the CDC guidelines, then these patients may not have been identified. Improvements in EHR clinical decision support tools and provider education can help improve the HIV testing rate among individuals who are HCV+.
Distribution pattern of mesangial C4d deposits as predictor of kidney failure in IgA nephropathy
Authors: Worawichawong Suchin , Plumworasawat Sirithep , Liwlompaisan Wisit , Sumethkul Vasant , Phakdeekitcharoen Bunyong , Udomsubpayakul Umaporn , Chalermsanyakorn Panus , Kitiyakara Chagriya
Published: June 2021

Mesangial C4d deposits have been associated with worse outcomes in Western patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), but there is limited data in Asians. Previously, a high proportion of stained glomeruli was often required for the classification of C4d positive (C4d+ve). Positive staining in lower proportion of staining would be classified as C4d-ve. This retrospective study evaluated the prognostic value of C4d+ve using a less stringent definition (one C4d+ve glomerulus) in Thai patients with IgAN (n = 120). Baseline findings and outcomes were compared between those with more extensive C4d staining patterns and those with more restricted staining. Clinico-pathologic parameters and risk for kidney outcomes (kidney failure or decline GFR50%) were compared between C4d+ve versus C4d-ve, and between different patterns: Focal (< 50%) versus Diffuse (≥ 50% of glomeruli); or Global (≥ 50) versus Segmental (< 50% of mesangial area). The hazard ratios were estimated using Cox proportional hazard models for Model 1 (Oxford score+ C4d) and Model 2 (Model 1+ clinical factors). C4d+ve (n = 81) had lower eGFR, more global sclerosis, and interstitial fibrosis than C4d-ve at baseline. The 5-year kidney survival for C4d+ve was lower (53.7%) than C4d-ve (89.7%); P = 0.0255. By univariate analysis, T1, T2, C4d+ve, eGFR<60, proteinuria were predictors of kidney outcome. By multivariate analysis, proteinuria, T1, T2 and C4d+ve were independent predictors (Model 2 HR (95% CI) C4d+ve: 3.24 (1.09–9.58), p = 0.034). Segmental had lower eGFR, higher tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and segmental sclerosis compared to Global pattern. Clinicopathological parameters were not different between Focal and Diffuse patterns. Outcomes were similar between staining patterns. In conclusion, C4d staining may be a valuable marker of poor prognosis in Asian patients with IgAN. Less stringent criteria for C4d+ve should be considered as no differences in outcomes were observed between more extensive staining with less extensive patterns. More studies are needed to identify the optimum criteria for C4d+ve.
Physicians payment in the United States between 2014 and 2018: An analysis of the CMS Open Payments database
Authors: Cuomo Raphael E. , Cai Mingxiang , Shah Neal , Mackey Tim K.
Published: June 2021

The Open Payments database reports payments made to physicians by industry. Given the potential for financial conflicts of interest relating to patient outcomes, further scrutiny of these data is valuable. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze physician-industry relationships by specialty type, payment type, geospatial trend, and longitudinal trend between 2014–2018. We conducted an observational, retrospective data analysis of payments from the Open Payments database for licensed United States physicians listed in the National Plan & Provider Enumeration System (NPPES). Datasets from 2013–2018 were joined using the Python programming language. Aggregation and sub-setting by characteristics of interest was done in R to calculate means and frequencies of reported general physician payments from industry across different specialties, locations, timeframes, and payment types. Normalization was applied for numbers of physicians or payments. Geospatial statistical hot spot analysis was conducted in ArcGIS. 51.73 million payment records were analyzed. In total, 50,047,930 payments were issued to 771,113 allopathic or osteopathic physicians, representing $8,702,631,264 transferred from industry to physicians over the five-year period between 2014 and 2018. The mean payment amount was $179, with a standard deviation of $12,685. Variability in physicians’ financial relationships with industry were apparent across specialties, regions, time, and payment type. A limited match rate between records in the NPPES and Open Payments databases may have resulted in selection bias of trends related to physician characteristics. Further research is necessary, particularly in the context of changing industry payment trends and public perceptions of the appropriateness of these relationships.
Sociodemographic characteristics associated with hospital contact in the year prior to suicide: A data linkage cohort study in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Clapperton Angela , Dwyer Jeremy , Millar Ciara , Tolhurst Penny , Berecki-Gisolf Janneke
Published: June 2021

Aims

The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence of hospital contact in the year prior to suicide in Victoria, Australia, and to compare characteristics among those who did and did not have contact in the year prior to suicide.

Methods

The study was a data linkage cohort study of 4348 Victorians who died by suicide over the period 2011–2017. Data from the Victorian Suicide Register (VSR) was linked with hospital separations and Emergency Department (ED) presentations datasets by the Centre for Victorian Data Linkages (CVDL). The main outcomes were: (1) hospital contact for any reason, (2) hospital contact for mental-health-related reasons, and (3) hospital contact for intentional self-harm. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios were calculated as the measures of association.

Results

In the year prior to suicide, half of the decedents (50.0%) had hospital contact for any reason (n = 2172), 28.6% had mental-health-related hospital contact (n = 1244) and 9.9% had hospital contact for intentional self-harm (n = 432).

In the year prior to suicide, when compared with males aged 25–49 years (the reference group):

males aged 75+ years and females of all ages were significantly more likely to have hospital contact for any reason

females aged 10–24 years and 25–49 years were significantly more likely to have mental-health-related hospital contact

females aged 10–24 years and 25–49 years had 3.5 times and 2.4 times the odds of having hospital contact for intentional self-harm.

Conclusions

The comparatively high proportion of female decedents with mental-health related hospital contact in the year prior to suicide suggests improving the quality of care for those seeking help is an essential prevention initiative; this could be explored through programs such as the assertive outreach trials currently being implemented in Victoria and elsewhere in Australia. However, the sizeable proportion of males who do not have contact in the year prior to suicide was a consistent finding and represents a challenge for suicide prevention. Programs to identify males at risk in the community and engage them in the health care system are essential. In addition, promising universal and selective interventions to reduce suicide in the cohort who do not have hospital contact, include restricting access to lethal means and other public health interventions are also needed.
Venestatin from parasitic helminths interferes with receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE)-mediated immune responses to promote larval migration
Authors: Tsubokawa Daigo , Kikuchi Taisei , Lee Jae Man , Kusakabe Takahiro , Yamamoto Yasuhiko , Maruyama Haruhiko
Published: June 2021

Parasitic helminths can reside in humans owing to their ability to disrupt host protective immunity. Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), which is highly expressed in host skin, mediates inflammatory responses by regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and endothelial adhesion molecules. In this study, we evaluated the effects of venestatin, an EF-hand Ca2+-binding protein secreted by the parasitic helminth Strongyloides venezuelensis, on RAGE activity and immune responses. Our results demonstrated that venestatin bound to RAGE and downregulated the host immune response. Recombinant venestatin predominantly bound to the RAGE C1 domain in a Ca2+-dependent manner. Recombinant venestatin effectively alleviated RAGE-mediated inflammation, including footpad edema in mice, and pneumonia induced by an exogenous RAGE ligand. Infection experiments using S. venezuelensis larvae and venestatin silencing via RNA interference revealed that endogenous venestatin promoted larval migration from the skin to the lungs in a RAGE-dependent manner. Moreover, endogenous venestatin suppressed macrophage and neutrophil accumulation around larvae. Although the invasion of larvae upregulated the abundance of RAGE ligands in host skin tissues, mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, endothelial adhesion molecules vascular cell adhesion protein-1, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, and E-selectin were suppressed by endogenous venestatin. Taken together, our results indicate that venestatin suppressed RAGE-mediated immune responses in host skin induced by helminthic infection, thereby promoting larval migration. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of venestatin may be targeted for the development of anthelminthics and immunosuppressive agents for the treatment of RAGE-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Internalization of sexualized female ideals and body shame
Authors: Choi Dooyoung
Published: June 2021

This study was designed to provide empirical evidence of the internalization of sexualized female ideals influenced by media and to examine the effect of the internalization on body shame. An online questionnaire was created and a total of 302 women completed the questionnaire. Structural equation modelling was conducted to test the hypothesized causal relationships from media influence to the internalization of sexualized ideals (i.e. holding a narrow view of attractiveness and endorsing the notion that women should be sexually attractive) and, next, from the internalization of sexualized ideals to body shame. The results showed that the more women internalized media ideals, the more women (1) hold the narrow view of female attractiveness that equates physical attractiveness with sexual appeal and (2) endorsed the notion that women should be sexually attractive. The internalization of a narrow view of attractiveness was a significant mediator that led from media influence to body shame. Although women endorsed the notion that women should be sexually attractive, it did not necessarily lead to body shame.
Identifying attributes motivating appearance management behaviours among young college women: Narcissism, self-efficacy, body attitudes and internalization of beauty ideals
Authors: Lee Ji Young , Choi Dooyoung , Johnson Kim K.P.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this research was to investigate a range of individual attributes (i.e. narcissism, self-efficacy, body attitudes and internalization of beauty ideals) as antecedents to young college women’s engagement in both general (non-risky) and risky appearance management behaviours. This study also examined the mediating role of beliefs about the importance of appearance in the relationship between all antecedent variables and engagement in appearance management behaviours. A survey was conducted with female undergraduates (n = 120) who enrolled at a land-grant university in the Midwestern United States. A mediation analysis with PROCESS was conducted to test the direct and indirect relationships among the variables. Exhibitionistic narcissism and internalization of beauty ideals had positive indirect effects on both general (non-risky) and risky appearance management behaviours via beliefs about the importance of appearance. Self-efficacy had a positive direct effect on both general (non-risky) and risky appearance management behaviours, while it had no indirect effect via beliefs about the importance of appearance. Body attitudes had a positive direct effect on general (non-risky) appearance management behaviours only. A mediating role of beliefs about the importance of appearance is discussed. Academic contributions and managerial implications are also discussed.
The 45-rpm dress revolution: Competing temporalities in 1960s fashion
Authors: Robinson Juneko J.
Published: June 2021

Perhaps no artefact is as evocative of temporality (i.e. the lived experience of time), as fashion and, arguably, no other period in history represents such a marked change in our notions about the relationship between the two as the 1960s did. In contrast to the Platonic-Apollonian fashion ideals of the 1950s, as exemplified by Dior’s New Look, the mod and the hippy came to represent competing bodily ideals. Their Dionysian fashions aestheticized time in three complementary ways: first, the celebration of the now, with its emphasis on the ephemeral, the physically pleasurable and the situated body in motion; second, the re-appropriation of the past, which involved the postmodern rejection or subversion of grand historical narratives that privileged certain iterations of race, class and gender and touted imperialism and cultural hegemony; and third, a utopian optimism about the future based on a belief in the increased possibilities of individual human potential as well as the prospect of societal transformation into a post-bellum, post-racial, post-classist, post-gender ‘Age of Aquarius’. These aesthetic values had political implications. Although the most radical of street fashions was worn by comparatively few 1960s youth, the deeper reasons why they came to be viewed with suspicion and outright anger were not so much due to particular styles, but rather what they revealed about our changing relationships to temporality and the postmodern fracturing of metanarratives concerning the proper existential comportment towards tradition and change, while laying the symbolic groundwork for what would later be referred to as the ‘culture wars’ in popular media.