bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matching‐adjusted indirect comparison of bleeding outcomes in severe haemophilia A: Comparing valoctocogene roxaparvovec gene therapy, emicizumab prophylaxis, and FVIII replacement prophylaxis
Authors: Astermark Jan , Buckner Tyler W , Frenzel Laurent , Hatswell Anthony J , You Xiaojun , Liu Hai , Goodman Erin , Santos Sandra , Hawes Charles , Hinds David , Klamroth Robert
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Head‐to‐head evaluation of valoctocogene roxaparvovec, the first gene therapy approved for haemophilia A, with emicizumab is not available. Therefore, phase 3 trial data were indirectly compared.

Aim

To compare bleeding rates in trials evaluating 6 × 1013 vg/kg valoctocogene roxaparvovec (GENEr8‐1; NCT03370913), 1.5 mg/kg emicizumab dosed every week (HAVEN 3; NCT02847637), and FVIII prophylaxis (270–902) in participants with severe haemophilia A (FVIII ≤1 IU/dL).

Methods

Valoctocogene roxaparvovec versus emicizumab and FVIII prophylaxis as used in 270–902 versus emicizumab cross‐trial comparisons were performed using matching‐adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC). Individual participant data from GENEr8‐1 and 270–902 were weighted to equalise aggregate participant baseline characteristics from HAVEN 3. After MAIC weighting, annualised bleeding rates (ABR) and proportions of participants without bleeds were compared for treated bleeds, all bleeds, treated joint bleeds, and treated spontaneous bleeds.

Results

After MAIC weighting, ABR for all bleeds was statistically significantly lower with valoctocogene roxaparvovec than emicizumab (rate ratio [95% CI], .55 [.33–.93]). Additionally, significantly higher proportions of participants had no treated joint bleeds (odds ratio [95% CI], 2.75 [1.20–6.31]) and no treated bleeds (3.25 [1.53–6.90]) with valoctocogene roxaparvovec versus emicizumab. When compared with the mainly standard half‐life FVIII prophylaxis regimens in 270–902, mean ABRs (except for all bleeds) were significantly lower, and significantly higher proportions reported 0 bleeds for all outcomes with emicizumab.

Conclusion

Valoctocogene roxaparvovec provided generally lower bleeding rates and higher probability of no bleeds, including treated joint bleeds, than emicizumab. Emicizumab was more effective than FVIII prophylaxis regimens used in 270–902.
Pharmacotherapy considerations in pregnant patients on hemodialysis
Authors: Drambarean Beatrice , Mastalerz Justyna , Wendt Lisa , Toth‐Manikowski Stephanie
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Successful pregnancy rates on dialysis are increasing with the advent of intensive hemodialysis and advances in medical management.

Data support the use of intensive hemodialysis in pregnant women with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD). This paper provides an overview of common pharmacotherapeutic changes in management when caring for a pregnant woman receiving intensive hemodialysis. Pregnant patients on peritoneal dialysis were excluded from this analysis due to insufficient data. Topics covered include those related to anemia (iron and erythropoietin stimulating agents), blood pressure agents, monitoring of phosphorus, as well as nutrition and anticoagulation.

Conclusion

When patients on hemodialysis become pregnant, medication adjustments are needed regarding antihypertensives, anemia management, and mineral‐bone disease management as many agents require dose adjustment, switching agents due to teratogenicity, or cessation due to fetal complications. There are minimal data in this population; however, successful and healthy infants have been delivered in this patient population with the medication changes discussed.
Transiciones de contratos de duración determinada a indefinida en el Perú. Revisión de la hipótesis del trampolín
Authors: JARAMILLO BAANANTE Miguel , CAMPOS UGAZ Daniela
Published: June 2023

En el presente estudio se evalúa en qué medida los contratos de duración determinada sirven de trampolín hacia la contratación indefinida, diferenciando las transiciones intraempresariales de las interempresariales. Tras analizar una base de datos del Perú con información entrecruzada de empresas y trabajadores para el periodo 2012‐2016, se proponen varias medidas de conversión de contratos y se estiman modelos de duración. Se concluye que solo el 7 por ciento de los contratos de duración determinada se convierten en indefinidos y que aproximadamente la mitad de las conversiones tienen lugar en la misma empresa.
¿Quién reivindica la (des)regulación laboral en el mundo en desarrollo? Replanteamiento de la teoríainsider‐outsider
Authors: RONCONI Lucas , KANBUR Ravi , LÓPEZ‐CARIBONI Santiago
Published: June 2023

La perspectiva insider‐outsider, dominante en el discurso sobre la regulación laboral, sostiene que las disposiciones protectoras se mantienen vigentes en interés de sus beneficiarios (insiders), aunque perjudican a otros trabajadores menos acomodados (outsiders). Si la contraposición entre ambas categorías fuera tal como se formula en el modelo, los outsiders se opondrían rotundamente a la regulación. Sin embargo, nuestras evidencias de que los outsiders en los países en desarrollo están mayoritariamente a favor de las medidas regulatorias obligan a replantear la tajante dicotomía insider‐outsider. Sugerimos distintas líneas de investigación, como los procesos redistributivos, las transiciones, la equidad y el poder del empleador en los mercados de trabajo.
Understanding the resilience of children living on an American Indian reservation: A mixed methods participatory study
Authors: Hodgson Christine , Taylor‐Piliae Ruth , Rainbow Jessica
Published: June 2023

Aim

To explore the resilience of children, six to thirteen years old, living on a Northern Plains American Indian Reservation using a situation specific nursing theory.

Background

American Indian and Alaska Native children experience mental health inequities compared to their white peers, including substance use, suicide, depression, and anxiety. Resilience is a strength of children that can be leveraged to improve their mental health.

Design

A parallel convergent mixed methods design.

Methods

A community advisory board culturally adapted resilience instruments. During two weeks in summer 2022, forty‐seven children/caregiver dyads completed surveys about the child's resilience. Descriptive statistics gave the scores of each child's personal, relational, and total resilience. A subset of 20 children participated in a semi‐structured interview.

Results

Children scored high on overall resilience, and higher on the relational subscale than the personal subscale. Caregiver survey scores were not significantly correlated with their child's scores and were higher than the children's scores. Qualitative coding revealed six themes of resilience. Integration of data showed a concordance and expansion of the quantitative data across themes.

Conclusion

The children reported high resilience supported by a strong ecosystem of relationships. Resilience, as explained through children's voices, corroborated with findings from the surveys.

Implications for Nursing

Findings will help nurses across sectors of primary, secondary, and tertiary care create resilience‐enhancing interventions and prevent mental health crises in this community.

Impact Statement

This findings from this study will inform local mental health interventions on the Reservation. The study provides a reproducible design to adapt to other Indigenous communities.

Public Contribution

A community advisory board was a partner in every stage of the study. Children and caregivers participated in data collection.

Contribution to the Wider Clinical Community

This research provides knowledge that will further social justice efforts within nursing to promote health equity across diverse populations.
The concept of spirituality in the context of Chinese patients with cancer: A scoping review
Authors: Zeng Dongyan , Mizuno Michiyo
Published: June 2023

Aim

To elucidate how the concept of spirituality has been addressed in studies with Chinese people with cancer.

Design

A scoping review.

Methods

Patterns in conceptual definitions of spirituality and indicators for measuring spirituality were analysed.

Data Sources (Include Search Dates)

Literature published from inception to August 2022 was searched in five electronic databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO and a Chinese database).

Results

Using data from 10 qualitative studies, a new taxonomy of concepts of spirituality among Chinese people with cancer was derived, consisting of four categories: Creation of meaning, Connection, Transcendence and Existence. A total of 12 instruments developed outside of Chinese contexts and used to measure dimensions of spirituality across 27 quantitative studies were compared to the taxonomy developed in this review, and patterns were identified according to the dimensions of spirituality. Several instruments required modifications or additional explanations in questions regarding God/Higher Power and religion.

Conclusion

The four categories of spirituality classified in the current review are considered universal across all cultural contexts. Spirituality is multidimensional and functional concept, and the components of the instruments differed depending on which dimension of spirituality was being measured.

Impact

The findings of this study suggest that for measuring spirituality in research and clinical settings with Chinese people with cancer, it is important to use culturally appropriate scales that are consistent with the dimensions of spirituality being measured.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Even instruments developed outside of the Chinese context could be used for Chinese people with cancer if appropriately selected for their intended use.

Reporting Method

This paper adheres to the EQUATOR guidelines and has no direct patient or public contribution.
Blood pressure measurement and blood pressure control in Veterans Affairs medical centers
Authors: Halloran Meghan O’ , Hughes Ashley M , Huo Zhiping , Weaver Frances , Stroupe Kevin , Tarlov Elizabeth , Kramer Holly
Published: June 2023

The Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers provide care for millions of Veterans at high risk of cardiovascular disease and accurate BP measurement in this population is vital for optimal BP control. Few studies have examined terminal digit preference (TDP), a marker of BP measurement bias, clinician perceptions of BP measurement, and BP control in VA medical centers. This mixed methods study examined BP measurements from Veterans aged 18 to 85 years with hypertension and a primary care visit within 8 VA medical centers. TDP for all clinic BP measurements was examined using a goodness of fit test assuming 10% frequency for each digit. Interviews were also conducted with clinicians from 3 VA medical centers to assess perceptions of BP measurement. The mean age of the 98,433 Veterans (93% male) was 68.5 years (SD 12.7). BP was controlled (<140/90 mmHg) in 76.5% and control rates ranged from 72.2% to 81.0% across the 8 VA medical centers. Frequency of terminal digits 0 through 9 differed significantly from 10% for both SBP and DBP within each center (P < .001) but level of TDP differed by center. The highest BP control rates were noted in centers with highest TDP for digits 0 and 8 for both SBP and DBP. Clinicians reported use of semi‐automated oscillometric devices for clinic BP measurement, but elevated BP readings were often confirmed by auscultatory methods. Significant TDP exists for BP measurement in VA medical centers, which reflects continued use of auscultatory methods.
A Matter of Prescriptive Clarity? Analysing How Swedish Judges' Motives for Action Vary in the Preliminary Ruling Procedure
Authors: Leijon Karin
Published: June 2023

This article explores how national judges' reasoning in the preliminary ruling procedure varies depending on the prescriptive clarity of European Union (EU) legal frameworks. Drawing on the logic of appropriateness and the logic of expected consequences, this article formulates hypotheses regarding judges' motivational patterns. Interviews with Swedish judges generate findings that partly corroborate these hypotheses. The findings show that when EU legal frameworks are clear, judges express a mix of considerations, including references to EU rules, expected politico‐strategic outcomes and professional norms. When the clarity of the frameworks is low, judges mainly motivate their decisions by invoking professional norms. In light of these findings, the article proposes a revision of the compliance pull explanation that takes into account how not only formal EU rules but also informal norms of appropriate professional conduct may influence the actions of national judges.
Task shifting and community engagement as the keys to increasing access to modern contraception: Findings from mixed methods operational research in coastal Kenya
Authors: Essendi Hildah , Scott Kerry , McAdam Lorina , Momanyi Harmon , Mutuku Rachel , Mwangome Peter , Rothschild Claire W. , Were Christine , Keller Brett , Gibbs Susannah , Mohammed Hambulle
Published: June 2023

Rationale

Kilifi County, Kenya, has a modern contraceptive prevalence of 44%, compared to the national prevalence of 61%. In 2018, the Government of Kenya and Population Services Kenya implemented a pilot project in Kilifi to improve contraceptive awareness and access.

Aims and Objectives

The Riziki Demonstration Project task shifted contraceptive injectable and implant provision to community health extension workers (CHEWs) and supported community engagement led by community health volunteers (CHVs). This mixed methods evaluation examined the effect of Riziki on contraceptive service provision and identified drivers of the intervention's success in increasing public sector contraceptive uptake.

Method

We obtained monthly contraceptive service provision data from DHIS2 for intervention and comparison facilities from June 2018 to July 2020. Controlled interrupted time series analyses were used to assess difference‐in‐differences effects on the levels and trends in service provision. Qualitative data included key informant interviews with health workers, community‐based focus group discussions and contraceptive journey mapping. Topics included contraception‐related shifts in the health system and social environment and changes to contraceptive accessibility and demand.

Results

We found positive difference‐in‐differences effects for levels of provision for implant (adj. β  =  7.4 per month, per facility, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.8–12.0) and all methods combined (adj. β  =  12.2, 95% CI: 3.0–21.3). The health system provided a legal framework and management support for the pilot. Community engagement by CHVs and CHEWs, including with men and religious leaders, bolstered supportive social norms by emphasizing birth spacing and family wellbeing. Awareness and supportive social norms were strengthened among women and their husbands through counselling that leveraged CHEW and CHV community embeddedness.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate the potential for task sharing combined with community engagement efforts to improve contraceptive awareness, knowledge and supply. Community engagement should include men, traditional leaders and other influencers to strengthen norms that position family planning in alignment with community values.
Distribution of nephrons in the head kidney of three species of Sebastes (Teleostei: Scorpaenidae)
Authors: Oh Han Young , Shin So Ryung , Park Jung Jun , Kim Hyeon Jin , Lee Jung Sick
Published: June 2023

Nephrons are generally not distributed in the head kidney of teleost. Nonetheless, in this study, the nephron structure was identified in the head kidney of three species of Sebastes (Sebastes inermis, Sebastes schlegelii and Sebastes thompsoni). The kidney is Y shaped, with the development in the head kidney. The nephron structure was confirmed in the head kidney and body kidney. In addition, the nephron consisted of renal corpuscles and tubules, and the renal corpuscle consisted of the Bowman's capsule and glomerulus. Histologically, previous studies reported that the nephron structure is similar to that of other marine teleost. The renal tubule is a simple columnar epithelial layer with microvilli and cilia on the free surface, which is observed as a brush border. The Rrk (relative area ratio of kidney to body surface) was 5.14%, 7.58% and 5.17% in S. inermis, S. schlegelii and S. thompsoni, respectively. The Gar (glomerular area ratio of the head kidney) was higher in the central area than in the peripheral area, and species, which showed significant difference (P < 0.05), were in the following order: S. thompsoni (1.60%) > S. schlegelii (0.90%) > S. inermis (0.66%).
Otolith‐inferred patterns of marine migration frequency in Nunavik Arctic charr
Authors: Mainguy Julien , Arsenault Ariel , Tran Lilian , Martyniuk Mackenzie A. C. , Paquet Catherine , Moore Jean‐Sébastien , Power Michael
Published: June 2023

Alternative migratory tactics in salmonids reflect the large observed interindividual variation in spatial behaviour which may range from strict freshwater residency to uninterrupted anadromy. In Salvelinus, sea migrations are performed during the ice‐free period as freshwater overwintering is thought to be obligatory due to physiological constraints. As a result, individuals can either migrate the next spring or remain in freshwater, as anadromy is generally considered facultative. In Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), skipped migrations are known to occur, but limited data are available regarding their frequencies within and among populations. Here, the authors used an otolith microchemistry approach relying on strontium (88Sr) to infer movements between freshwater and marine habitats, and annual oscillations in zinc (64Zn) to help with age identification. They determined the age‐at‐first‐migration and the occurrence of subsequent annual migrations in two Nunavik Arctic charr populations sampled in Deception Bay (Salluit) and river systems linked to Hopes Advance Bay (Aupaluk), northern Québec, Canada. The mode for age‐at‐first‐migration was 4+ for both populations, although it exhibited large variation (range: 0+ to 8+). Skipped migrations constituted a rare event, as 97.7% and 95.6% of the examined Arctic charr at Salluit (n = 43, mean age = 10.3 ± 2.0 years) and Aupaluk (n = 45, mean age = 6.0 ± 1.9 years), respectively, were found to have performed uninterrupted annual migrations after initiation of the behaviour. The consistency of the annual migrations suggests that the tactic is sufficiently fitness rewarding to be maintained under current environmental conditions. From a fisheries management perspective, these repeated migrations combined with low site fidelity in this species may lead to large interannual variations in abundance at the local scale, which may represent a challenge for monitoring Arctic charr demographics on a river‐by‐river basis.
Frailty and uptake of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Lee Yu‐Chien , Lin Joshua K. , Ko Darae , Cheng Susan , Patorno Elisabetta , Glynn Robert J. , Tsacogianis Theodore , Kim Dae Hyun
Published: June 2023

Background

Frail older adults may be less likely to receive guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT)—renin‐angiotensin blockers, beta‐blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists—for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We aimed to examine the uptake of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) and GDMT in frail older adults with HFrEF.

Methods

Using 2015–2019 Medicare data, we estimated the proportion of beneficiaries with HFrEF receiving ARNI and GDMT each year by frailty status, defined by a claims‐based frailty index. Logistic regression was used to identify clinical characteristics associated with ARNI initiation. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to examine the association of GDMT use in 2015 and death or heart failure hospitalization in 2016–2019.

Results

Among 147,506–180,386 beneficiaries with HFrEF (mean age: 77 years; 27% women; 42.6–49.1% frail) in 2015–2019, the proportion of patients receiving ARNI increased in both non‐frail (0.4%–16.4%) and frail (0.3%–13.7%) patients (p for yearly‐trend‐by‐frailty = 0.970). Among those not receiving a renin‐angiotensin system blocker, patients with age ≥ 85 years (odds ratio [95% CI], 0.89 [0.80–0.99]), dementia (0.88 [0.81–0.96]), and frailty (0.87 [0.81–0.94]) were less likely to initiate ARNI. The proportion of patients receiving all 3 GDMT classes increased in non‐frail patients (22.0%–27.0%) but changed minimally in frail patients (19.6%–21.8%). Regardless of frailty status, treatment with at least 1 class of GDMT was associated with lower death or heart failure hospitalization than no GDMT medications (hazard ratio [95% CI], 0.94 [0.91–0.97], 0.92 [0.89–0.94], 0.94 [0.91–0.97] for 1, 2, and 3 classes, respectively).

Conclusions

Our results suggest an evidence‐practice gap in the use of ARNI and GDMT in Medicare beneficiaries with HFrEF, particularly those with frailty. Efforts to narrow this gap are needed to reduce the burden of HFrEF in older adults.
The feasibility of a 6‐month dietary intervention aiming to increase protein intake among community‐dwelling older adults with low habitual protein intake: A secondary analysis of the PROMISS randomised controlled trial
Authors: Niskanen Riikka T. , Reinders Ilse , Wijnhoven Hanneke A. H. , Hyvönen Aliisa A. , Pols‐Vrijmoeth Merel , Trommel‐Bout Mariska , Visser Marjolein , Pitkälä Kaisu H. , Suominen Merja H. , Öhman Hanna , Jyväkorpi Satu K.
Published: June 2023

Background

The PROMISS randomised controlled trial showed that personalised dietary advice increased protein intake and improved 400‐m walk time and leg strength among community‐dwelling older adults with a low habitual protein intake. This secondary analysis describes and further evaluates the methods and feasibility of the model used to carry out dietary intervention in the PROMISS randomised controlled trial.

Methods

In total, 185 participants (≥65 years, 54% women) with a habitual low protein intake (<1.0 g/kg adjusted body weight/day) in Finland and the Netherlands received personalised dietary advice and complimentary protein‐enriched food products for 6 months with two main objectives: (1) to increase protein intake to ≥1.2 g/kg adjusted body weight/day (energy‐neutral) and (2) to include each day a ‘high‐protein meal’ containing ≥ 30–35 g of protein. The feasibility of the model was evaluated by the adoption of the advice, feedback from the participants, and practical experiences by the nutritionists.

Results

In all, 174 participants (93.5%) completed the intervention. At the 6‐month follow‐up, 41.8% reached both main objectives of the advice. The participants' general rating for the dietary advice was 8.6 (SD 1.0) (on a scale of 1–10; 10 indicating very good). Sticking to the advice was (very) easy for 79.2% of the participants. The nutritionists perceived the model feasible for the participants except for those with low food intake.

Conclusions

The methods used in this model are mainly feasible, well‐received and effective in increasing protein intake among community‐dwelling older adults with low habitual protein intake.
(Why) Do Central Banks Care about Their Profits?
Authors: GONCHAROV IGOR , IOANNIDOU VASSO , SCHMALZ MARTIN C.
Published: June 2023

We document that central banks are discontinuously more likely to report slightly positive profits than slightly negative profits, especially when political pressure is greater, the public is more receptive to extreme political views, and central bank governors are eligible for reappointment. The propensity to report small profits over small losses is correlated with higher inflation and lower interest rates. We conclude that there are agency problems at central banks, which give rise to discontinuous profit incentives that correlate with central banks’ policy choices and outcomes. These findings inform the debate about the political economy of central banking and central bank design.
Dual effect of picolinic acid in the photosynthetic performance of rice plants infected by Bipolaris oryzae
Authors: Hawerroth Caroline , Silva Bruno Nascimento , Oliveira Lillian Matias , Rodrigues Fabrício Ávila
Published: June 2023

Brown spot, caused by Bipolaris oryzae, is one of the most important diseases of rice. The non‐host toxin α‐picolinic acid (PA) has great potential to be used to enhance plant resistance against pathogen infection. The present study investigated the effect of spraying PA [0 (control), 1, 3, and 5 mg/mL] on the photosynthetic performance of rice plants (cultivar Metica‐1) infected or not with B. oryzae. Moreover, whether the PA treatment, especially at the highest concentration, could affect brown spot development was also evaluated. The chlorophyll a fluorescence parameters such as variable‐to‐maximum chlorophyll a fluorescence ratio (Fv/Fm), photochemical yield [Y(II)], yield for dissipation by down‐regulation [Y(NPQ)], the yield for non‐regulated dissipation [Y(NO)], and electron transport rate (ETR) as well as the concentration of photosynthetic pigments were determined. Based on the in vitro assay, PA inhibited mycelial growth of B. oryzae in a dose‐dependent manner and conidial germ tube length only decreased at 5 mg PA/mL. Conidia germination was not affected by the PA treatment. Necrotic lesions caused by PA were observed on leaves of non‐inoculated plants at 3 and 5 mg PA/mL. Symptoms of the brown spot were reduced on plants sprayed with 1 and 3 mg PA/mL compared to the control treatment. Brown spot lesions and those originating from PA toxicity overlapped for inoculated plants sprayed with 3 and 5 mg PA/mL. The photochemical performance of non‐inoculated plants was hampered by treatments with 3 and 5 mg PA/mL. Greater concentration of photosynthetic pigments and less impairment on the photosynthetic performance of inoculated plants sprayed with 1 mg PA/mL were noticed based on the values of Fv/Fm, Y(II), Y(NPQ), Y(NO), and ETR compared to inoculated plants non‐sprayed with PA. In conclusion, spraying rice plants with a low concentration of PA could decrease brown spot severity while preserving the photosynthetic capacity of the infected plants. The cellular damage generated by spraying the plants with the highest PA concentration did not favour the infection process of B. oryzae.
Role and neural regulation of clock genes in the rat pineal gland: Clock modulates amplitude of rhythmic expression of Aanat encoding the melatonin‐producing enzyme
Authors: Blancas‐Velazquez Aurea S. , Bering Tenna , Bille Signe , Rath Martin F.
Published: June 2023

Circadian clock gene expression in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) controls 24 h rhythms in body functions, but clock genes are also expressed in extra‐hypothalamic tissues, including the melatonin‐producing pineal gland. The nocturnal increase in pineal melatonin synthesis is a hallmark in circadian biology, but the role of local clock gene oscillations in the mammalian pineal gland is unknown. The aim of this work is to determine the role of clock genes in endocrine function of the pineal gland with focus on the Aanat transcript encoding the rhythm‐generating enzyme of melatonin synthesis. Using the rat as a model, we here established 24 h expression patterns of clock genes in the pineal gland in vivo. Lesion studies showed that rhythmic clock gene expression in the pineal gland to a large extent depends on the SCN; further, clock gene rhythms could be re‐established in cultured pineal cells synchronized by rhythmic stimulation with norepinephrine in 12 h pulses, suggesting that pineal cells house a slave oscillator controlled by adrenergic signaling in the gland. Histological analyses showed that clock genes are expressed in pinealocytes and colocalize with Aanat transcripts, thus potentially enabling clock gene products to control cellular melatonin production. To test this, cultured pineal cells were transfected using small interfering RNA to knock down clock gene expression. While successful knockdown of Per1 had a minor effect on Aanat, Clock knockdown produced a marked overexpression of Aanat in the pinealocytes. Our study suggests that SCN‐dependent rhythmic Clock gene expression in the pinealocytes regulates the daily profile of Aanat expression.
Follow‐up of children with Down syndrome and sleep disordered breathing and the effects of treatment on actigraphically recorded sleep, quality of life, behaviour, and daytime functioning
Authors: Horne Rosemary S. C. , Shetty Marisha , Davey Margot J. , Walter Lisa M. , Nixon Gillian M.
Published: June 2023

Children with Down syndrome are at increased risk of obstructive sleep disordered breathing, which has deleterious effects on daytime functioning. We aimed to examine the effects of treatment of sleep disordered breathing on sleep quality and daytime functioning in children with Down syndrome, and hypothesised that these would be improved. Thirty‐four children completed a baseline study and a follow‐up 2 years later. Measures at both time points included 7 days of actigraphy and parents completed a number of questionnaires assessing sleep, behaviour, daytime functioning, and quality of life. All children had overnight polysomnography at baseline; 15 children (44%) were treated. At baseline the treated group had more severe sleep disordered breathing compared with the untreated group: obstructive apneoa–hypopnoea index 29.3 ± 38.2 events/h versus 3.3 ± 5.2 events/h (p < 0.01). Actigraphy showed no significant differences in total sleep time, sleep efficiency, sleep schedules from baseline to follow up in either group. The sleep disturbance (p < 0.01) and total problems (p < 0.05) scales on the OSA‐18 and the sleep disordered breathing subscale on the Paediatric Sleep Problem Survey Instrument (p < 0.01) improved in the treated children. There were no changes in any measure in the untreated children. Treatment of sleep disordered breathing improves symptoms, sleep disturbance and quality of life in children with Down syndrome, but has no demonstrable impact on actigraphic sleep measures or daytime behaviour or function. In contrast, children who were not treated, despite having less severe disease at baseline, had increased sleep disruption and no change in quality of life.
Seeking help for nightmares: Associated personality factors
Authors: Schredl Michael
Published: June 2023

Research indicated that patients suffering from nightmares are often undertreated. One reason for this gap is that nightmare sufferers themselves often have not sought professional help for their nightmares, and—if they did—it was not very helpful. The current study aimed at studying trait factors (personality, harm avoidance) in relation to the persons considering seeking professional help. In a population‐sample of 1108 persons (712 women, 396 men) with a mean age of 50.55 ± 14.22 years, it was also found that only some of the persons who have problems with nightmares even considered seeking professional help as an option. As expected and after controlling for effects of nightmare frequency, persons with high harm avoidance and high introversion were more likely not seeking help for their problems with nightmares. The associations with low education, low agreeableness and low conscientiousness with considering seeking professional help might point to the fear of stigmatisation in nightmare sufferers. Interestingly, the association between harm avoidance and “Considering seeking professional help” was even stronger in the subsample of frequent nightmare sufferers (once a week or more often). Future efforts should aim at findings new ways to offer adequate help for nightmares and increase the knowledge about nightmare treatment in healthcare professionals.
Comparison of HBV DNA and RNA markers in Alaska Native people who did and did not clear hepatitis B surface antigen
Authors: Johnston Janet M. , McMahon Brian , Simons Brenna C. , Homan Chriss
Published: June 2023

In a comparison between 50 Alaska Native persons with chronic hepatitis B who cleared HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and 50 Alaska Native age‐, sex‐, and HBV genotype‐matched controls, we found differences in changes in HBV DNA and HBV RNA levels over time but no difference in hepatitis B core‐related antigen. These findings suggest that serial HBV DNA and HBV RNA may be associated with HBV functional cure defined by HBsAg clearance.
Square‐grid sampling support to reconcile systematicity and adaptivity in periodic spatial surveys of natural populations
Authors: Bouriaud Olivier , Morneau François , Bontemps Jean‐Daniel
Published: June 2023

Aims

Spatially balanced sampling is the most efficient method for surveying continuous and spatially structured populations. The spatial sampling of large‐scale surveys is mostly based on grids whose properties drive and potentially limit the possibility of building flexible samples. Periodicity causes high sampling constraints when an increase in the frequency of information delivery is sought. The sampling stratification of the adaptive sampling intensity also conflicts with the grid‐based approach. Although some surveys seemingly exploit these properties, no formal developments have been made available in the survey sampling literature across the fields of application.

Methods

We define and demonstrate the geometric properties of square grids, demonstrate how they can be used to produce nested hierarchical grids compatible with multiple periodicity values of interest for natural monitoring, and adapt the sampling intensity across space and time. A simulation study was conducted to quantify how spatial balance can be traded slowly for sample size reduction.

Results

We showed that square grids have geometric properties that can be exploited to cope with spatial flexibility in the sampling effort and the spatiotemporal coordination of samples. We also provide an original extension of this framework intended to tune the sampling effort gradually while preserving spatial systematicity. The simulation study showed that a nested hierarchical grid can be used to progressively reduce the sampling intensity while preserving regularity in the spatial arrangement of units.

Conclusions

We demonstrate the flexibility and diversity of sampling schemes that can be implemented with square grids, answering the need for periodicity and the coordination of multiple samples and the limits of their use.
What motivates users to report service‐related issues? A study on coproduction in a smart public service
Authors: Rodriguez Müller A. Paula , Lerusse Amandine , Steen Trui , Van De Walle Steven
Published: June 2023

Public service providers increasingly encourage users to actively coproduce as a means to enhance public service provision. But what drives users to coproduce? Using a unique combination of survey and actual behavior log‐data of 9992 smart public service users who reported service‐related issues, we examine the extent to which users' self‐centered and community‐centered motivations are associated with their actual reporting behavior as well as the effort intensity of such behavior. Our findings suggest that users' self‐centered motivations are positively related to their actual reporting behavior and effort intensity, while community‐centered motivations do not show a significant association. Our study highlights the importance of self‐centered motivations in (digital) coproduction and co‐assessment. It also showcases the potential of using log data from public services to measure actual coproduction behavior instead of relying solely on self‐reported behavior.
‘Where there is fish, is where I put my head’: Challenges of mobile fishers in Elmina fishing community in Ghana
Authors: Kyei‐Gyamfi Sylvester
Published: June 2023

Small‐scale fisheries are crucial for improving livelihoods by providing fisher employment, and food security. As part of their work, fishers frequently move to different fishing communities to catch and trade in fish. This paper analyses the living circumstances of artisanal fishers and discusses their mobility patterns, lodging arrangements, and the difficulties they encounter as they carry out their work. This paper is based on a study that involved 385 artisanal fishers in the fishing community of Elmina in the Komenda Edina Equafo Abirem (KEEA) Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana. The results show that there are not many suitable places to stay for fishers when they travel from home to other fishing locations, and the few places that do offer affordable lodging also lack toilets, bathrooms and drinkable water. The paper also reflects on the gendered dynamics of these and related issues of insecurity for women in this case study. District authorities whose economies are heavily dependent on fishing ought to collaborate with private housing developers and the state to build affordable lodging facilities with standard household amenities like water, toilets and baths in fishing destinations to address the housing issues faced by fishers while travelling.
Extravesicular, two‐layer, side‐to‐side ureteroneocystostomy combined with tension‐relieving techniques for feline proximal ureteral obstruction: A retrospective study
Authors: Oyamada Kazuhisa , Inoue Michito , Sato‐Takada Kanae , Minamoto Tomomi , Fujiki Makoto
Published: June 2023

Objective

To describe the surgical technique for extravesicular, two‐layer, side‐to‐side ureteroneocystostomy combined with tension‐relieving techniques (ETSUTT) for feline proximal ureteral obstruction and report clinical outcomes.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Ten privately‐owned cats with ureteral obstruction near the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ).

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for cats with ureteral obstruction close to the UPJ that underwent ETSUTT (2018–2021). The ETSUTT procedure consisted of a modified extravesicular technique (two‐layer, side‐to‐side ureteroneocystostomy) and tension‐relieving techniques (renal descensus, ureterocystopexy, and nephrocystopexy).

Results

All cats survived through discharge. In all cats, postoperative blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations were decreased, compared with preoperative concentrations. Perioperative complications included ureteral catheter dislodgement (3), transient pollakiuria (2), and dysuria (1), but no specific treatments were required. Urinary tract infection was observed postoperatively in three of the 10 cats. The median follow‐up was 648 days (min–max: 86–1229 days). Seven of the 10 cats were alive without recurrent ureteral obstruction at the end of this retrospective study.

Conclusion

The ETSUTT procedure was successfully performed without major complications in cats with ureteral obstruction occurring near the UPJ. Use of ETSUTT provided a fair‐to‐good, long‐term prognosis in cats that were otherwise difficult to manage.

Clinical significance

This novel procedure, ETSUTT, was feasible, safe, and could be a viable treatment option for feline proximal ureteral obstruction, including the UPJ, especially for obstructions caused by stricture.
Ex vivo evaluation of a novel suture loop method for equine intestinal biopsies
Authors: Munsterman Amelia S. , VanderBroek Ashley R. , Kottwitz Jack J. , Watson Victoria E.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To compare a novel suture loop method for intestinal biopsies (SLB) with a two‐layer, hand‐sutured biopsy (HSB) technique in equine small and large intestines.

Study design

Experimental, randomized, ex vivo study.

Animals

Eight healthy adult horses.

Methods

The duodenum, aboral jejunum, and ventral and dorsal large colon were harvested after euthanasia and divided into three sections each. The sections were randomized to SLB, HSB, or control (C, no biopsy) groups. Tissue samples were excised after placement of a suture loop formed by a 4S Roeder knot and oversewn with a Cushing pattern using barbed suture (SLB), or a simple continuous pattern oversewn with a Cushing pattern (HSB). Intraluminal diameter was assessed with contrast radiographs; bursting pressure and wall tension were determined using a solid‐state sensor after instillation of fluid. Tissue samples were evaluated by a board‐certified pathologist.

Results

Tissue samples were full thickness with similar depth and quality (p > .3). Changes in intraluminal diameter did not differ between methods (p > .16). The bursting pressures were higher for controls than biopsied sections (p < .009) but were not different between biopsy methods (p = .998). Bursting wall tension was higher for controls (p < .02) and was similar for both biopsy methods (p = .852).

Conclusion

The SLB was equivalent to HSB in strength and effect on intraluminal diameter. The HSB samples were larger and more likely to contain mucosa/villi for histologic diagnosis.

Clinical significance

The SLB method can be adapted for laparoscopic surgery to obtain both small and large intestinal biopsies. Further investigation is needed before clinical use.
Experiments and Lattice-Boltzmann Simulation of Flow in a Vertically Aligned Gearbox
Authors: Atencio Bercelay Niebles , Yao Hua-Dong , Chernoray Valery
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a study of the oil flow in a vertically arranged FZG gearbox. The splash and churning losses are experimentally evaluated using measurements of the resistance torque. Using high-speed imaging, the instantaneous oil splashing inside the gearbox is also presented and compared to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results from the lattice-Boltzmann method with the volume of fluid model, instead of the traditional finite volume method. Four different configurations, including a spur gear based on the standard FZG geometry and a disc pair wheel-pinion with the same tip diameters of the standard geometries, are used. The experiments cover a range from 500 to 3000 rpm and three oil levels are studied. For the CFD simulations, the same oil levels and rotational speeds are used. The experimental results indicate torque differences depending on the oil level and the configuration. The splashing pattern is also different from the standard horizontal FZG case, which is typically studied in the literature. On the other hand, the CFD simulations and flow visualization experiments are in relative agreement with one another. The similarities and differences in the torque values for the different configurations and the splashing pattern for both experiments and CFD simulations are analyzed and discussed.
Analytical calculation of plasmonic resonances in metal nanoparticles: A simple guide
Authors: Locarno Marco , Brinks Daan
Published: June 2023

Localized surface plasmons (LSPs) in metal particles are used in medical, chemical, physical, and biological sensing applications. In this paper, we revisit the classical description of LSPs. We use the Drude model and the Quasi-Static approximation to describe the plasmon resonances in terms of the material and the size of the particles embedded in a dielectric host. We then incorporate the Clausius–Mossotti relation to include shape effects in the classical description. Finally, we incorporate surface damping and retardation effects to arrive at a unified, classical description providing an intuitive and realistic model of plasmonic resonances in metal particles.
Oblique collision of a soft rubber disk with a rigid surface
Authors: Cross Rod
Published: June 2023

An oblique collision of an object with a rigid surface involves an initial sliding phase that persists throughout the collision at glancing angles of incidence but which involves a subsequent grip phase at higher angles of incidence. The grip phase itself terminates towards the end of the collision if the contact region starts to slide backwards. Experimental evidence of the three separate stages of the collision process is presented using a high speed video camera to film the impact of a rubber disk on a rigid horizontal surface. A simplified model of the process is presented, providing analytical solutions that are at least qualitatively consistent with the experimental observations.
Resource Letter MP-4: The Manhattan Project and related nuclear research
Authors: Reed B. Cameron
Published: June 2023

This fourth Resource Letter on the Manhattan Project comprises over 140 new sources to complement the 390 listed in the first three on this topic. Books, review papers, and journal articles are cited for the categories of general works; specific topics within the Manhattan Project; technical and historical works; biographies and autobiographies; international wartime programs, allied intelligence, and the use of the bombs; postwar developments; and educational materials. A separate section lists videos and websites.
An experimental model of the pharyngoesophageal segment in tracheoesophageal phonation
Authors: Miazaki da Costa Tourinho André , da Silva Andrey Ricardo
Published: June 2023

Tracheoesophageal (TE) speech is an important method of speech rehabilitation for those who undergo a total laryngectomy. Despite the many advantages over other methods, there is still room for improvement in terms of the overall quality of the TE voice as well as its success rate. These points could be greatly assisted by an improved knowledge on the mechanics of TE speech. Here, an experimental model of the pharyngoesophageal segment (PES), based on the idea of a collapsible tube, is proposed. To implement the model, considerable simplifications had to be made, most notably in the use of a thin flexible tube to represent the PES. The model was used to assess the minimum amount of tonicity required for the onset of phonation in terms of the flow rate and longitudinal tension. Additionally, comparisons with a mathematical model [Tourinho, da Silva, dos Santos, Thomaz, and Vieira, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 149, 1979–1988 (2021)] have been made, yielding similar trends for sufficiently large flow rates. The measurements also suggest that the phonation frequency is most affected by the tonicity of the PES, which highlights the question of which physiological mechanism is responsible for the control of the fundamental frequency of phonation.
Underwater sound of three unoccupied aerial vehicles at varying
altitudes and horizontal distances
Authors: Laute Amelie , Glarou Maria , Dodds Flordespina , Gomez Røsand Synnøve C. , Grove Thomas J. , Stoller Alyssa , Rasmussen Marianne H. , Fournet Michelle E. H.
Published: June 2023

Unoccupied aerial vehicles (UAVs), or “drones,” are increasingly used as a tool for cetacean research, but knowledge about how these tools contribute to underwater sound is lacking. In this study, underwater sound levels of three commonly used UAV models (Mavic Pro Platinum, Phantom 4 Pro v2.0, Inspire 1 Pro) were recorded. For each model, three replicate flights were conducted at 36 positions at standardized horizontal (0–30 m) and vertical (2–40 m) distances from a hydrophone (1 m depth). Median broadband received levels of the Inspire were highest at 96.5 dBrms 141–17 783 Hz re 1 μPa2, followed by the Phantom (92.4 dBrms 141–17 783 Hz re 1 μPa2) and Mavic, which was quietest (85.9 dBrms 141–17 783 Hz re 1 μPa2). Median ambient sound levels in the absence of an UAV were 82.7 dBrms 141–17 783 Hz re 1 μPa2. Significant increases in ambient sound levels associated with UAV flights occurred at higher altitudes than previously reported, and received levels decreased more with increasing horizontal distance of the UAV than with altitude. To minimize potential noise impacts on sensitive marine animal subjects, we recommend increasing horizontal distance to the animal, rather than altitude, and choosing the quietest UAV feasible.