bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pose optimization for mobile manipulator grasping based on hybrid manipulability
Authors: Xie Yangmin , Liu Jiajia , Yang Yusheng
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Proper platform pose is important for the mobile manipulator to accomplish dexterous manipulation tasks efficiently and safely, and the evaluation criterion to qualify manipulation performance is critical to support the pose decision process. This paper aims to present a comprehensive index to evaluate the manipulator’s operation performance from various aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, a criterion called hybrid manipulability (HM) is proposed to assess the performance of the manipulator’s operation, considering crucial factors such as joint limits, obstacle avoidance and stability. The determination of the optimal platform pose is achieved by selecting the pose that maximizes the HM within the feasible inverse reachability map associated with the target object.

Findings

A self-built mobile manipulator is adopted as the experimental platform, and the feasibility of the proposed method is experimentally verified in the context of object-grasping tasks both in simulation and practice.

Originality/value

The proposed HM extends upon the conventional notion of manipulability by incorporating additional factors, including the manipulator’s joint limits, the obstacle avoidance situation during the operation and the manipulation stability when grasping the target object. The manipulator can achieve enhanced stability during grasping when positioned in the pose determined by the HM.
Two‐dimensional anisotropic acoustic wave modelling using the support operator method
Authors: Chauhan Iktesh , Swaminadhan Sujith , Dehiya Rahul
Published: November 2023

We developed an algorithm to simulate two‐dimensional frequency domain acoustic‐wave response in a transversely isotropic medium with a tilted symmetry axis. The algorithm employs a support operator finite‐difference method for modelling. This method constructs a nine‐point stencil finite‐difference scheme for second‐order elliptic equations for generalized anisotropic physical properties. The medium's properties are described as P‐wave velocity on the symmetric axis, density, Thomsen's anisotropic parameters (epsilon and delta) and the tilt angle. The benchmarking analysis of the modelled amplitude is illustrated using an isotropic whole‐space model. Several synthetic experiments are conducted to evaluate the accuracy of the scheme for anisotropic models. The results suggest that the developed algorithm simulates the P‐wave solution and the fictitious S‐wave mode as reported in the literature. Simulation for a heterogeneous model with a spatially varying tilt angle of the medium symmetry axis is performed to ascertain the algorithm's robustness. The outcomes of the numerical experiments demonstrate that the developed algorithm can accurately simulate the frequency domain response of acoustic waves in the tilted anisotropic media.
Staying Power: The Resilience of the Scottish Independence Movement
Authors: Riddoch Lesley
Published: November 2023

This article challenges the narrative that the SNP was mortally wounded by its ‘seismic’ by‐election defeat in Rutherglen and that the victor—Scottish Labour—will inevitably recapture its lost status as Scotland's largest political party in the next general election. There is no question the Rutherglen result was a shock—the first ever by‐election loss for the SNP in the wake of Nicola Sturgeon's surprise resignation, a fractious leadership contest to select her successor, the weariness and policy failures that beset any ruling party after sixteen years in government and the 2022 Supreme Court ruling that effectively banned the Scottish Parliament from holding a lawful referendum. But just as the SNP's earlier invincibility was exaggerated, so too are predictions of its imminent demise. Much depends on whether the party can devise an independence strategy that generates enough belief and excitement to motivate Yes voters, who still constitute roughly half the electorate and two‐thirds of Scots aged 30 and under.
The Ancient Greek Datives in ‐essi: Contact or Independent Innovations?1
Authors: Capano Marta , Bianconi Michele
Published: November 2023

The Ancient Greek datives in ‐essi have posed a longstanding challenge in Greek linguistics, with their traditional categorisation as ‘Aeolic’ but their widespread presence across Aeolic and non‐Aeolic regions. This article investigates the origin and diffusion of this trait, examining both the early Greek evidence (in particular the Lesbian poets, Homer, and Mycenaean Greek) and that from specific areas, namely Sicily and Pamphylia, which are often overlooked despite their history of language contact. We argue that it is not necessary to have a single explanation for the origin and spread of ‐essi and that independent innovations in Greek dialects better account for the material. Despite the lack of a unitary account, we suggest that something comparable to the concept of ‘drift’ could underlie such a development. By analysing the epigraphic evidence from Sicily and Pamphylia, we conclude that the presence of ‐essi cannot be solely attributed to contact in all the areas in which it is attested. This perspective challenges the notion of ‐essi as a strong dialectal isogloss useful for diachronic dialectal taxonomy. More generally, this case study confirms the importance of considering diachronic typology and language contact to gain a more comprehensive understanding of language change.
Ambient temperature and preterm birth: A case‐crossover study
Authors: Terada Shuhei , Nishimura Hisaaki , Miyasaka Naoyuki , Fujiwara Takeo
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the association between ambient temperature and preterm birth (PTB) and to estimate the population attributable fraction (PAF) of PTBs due to low and high temperatures.

Design

Time‐stratified case‐crossover design.

Setting

Japan (46 prefectures, excluding Okinawa), 2011–2020.

Sample

214 050 PTBs registered in the Japan Perinatal Registry Network database among 1 908 168 singleton live births.

Methods

A quasi‐Poisson regression model with a distributed lag nonlinear model was employed to assess the associations between daily mean temperature and PTBs for a lag of 0–27 days in each prefecture. A random effects meta‐analysis was conducted by combining effect estimates from the 46 prefectures to estimate pooled relative risks (RRs). The PAFs of the PTBs due to below or above the mean of the 46 median temperatures (16.0°C) were calculated.

Main outcome measures

Preterm singleton live births.

Results

The association between daily mean temperature and PTB risk exhibited a U‐shaped curve. The adjusted RRs were 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.25) at the mean of the 1st percentiles (0.8°C) and 1.08 (95% CI 1.00–1.17) at the mean of the 99th percentiles (30.2°C) of 46 prefectures, with 16.0°C as the reference temperature. Approximately 2.3% (95% CI 0.6–4.0) of PTBs were attributable to low temperatures.

Conclusions

Both low and possibly high temperatures were associated with an increased risk of PTBs. These findings may help to inform preventive measures for pregnant women.
Insurance coverage during transitions: Evidence from Medicaid automatic enrollment for children receiving supplemental security income
Authors: Rennane Stephanie , Sobol Danielle , Stein Bradley D. , Dick Andrew
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To analyze relationships between Medicaid automatic enrollment for child Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and health insurance coverage during transitions.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Medical Expenditure Panel Study, 2000–2020 and National Survey for Children with Special Health Care Needs, 2001–2010.

Study Design

Leveraging variation in SSI‐Medicaid automatic enrollment status across regions and over time, we estimate a regression model to quantify associations between automatic enrollment and insurance coverage. We validate our findings in the NS‐CSHCN.

Data Collection

Our sample includes children receiving SSI for a disability. We also analyze a subsample of children newly enrolled in SSI.

Principal Findings

Automatic enrollment is associated with a statistically significant increase in insurance coverage. Expanding automatic enrollment to all states is associated with increases in Medicaid enrollment of 3% (CI 0.9%–6.7%) among all SSI children and 7% (CI 1.1%–13.9%) among children newly enrolled in SSI. We find similar decreases in uninsurance. Analysis in the NS‐CSHCN replicates these findings.

Conclusions

Medicaid automatic enrollment policies are associated with increased insurance coverage for SSI children, particularly those transitioning into the program. Medicaid policy defaults could play an important role in reducing administrative burdens to improve children's coverage and access to care.
Evaluation of bone marrow findings in hemodialysis patients with erythropoietin‐resistant anemia
Authors: Yilmaz Mehmet , Karakuş Volkan , Kaya Egemen , İlhanlı Nevruz , Huddam Bülent
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Treatment with erythropoietin‐stimulating agents (ESAs) is widely used in anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Acquired ESA resistance is an important problem. The aim of this study is to examine the bone marrow findings in hemodialysis patients with ESA‐resistant anemia.

Methods

The data of 210 patients with acquired ESA resistance were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were divided into groups according to having diagnosis of dysplasia and hematological disease, and survival analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 26 patients were included in the study. While dysplasia was present in 10 (38.5%) patients, five of them were diagnosed hematologically. When survival analysis was performed between those with and without a hematological diagnosis, a difference in survival was observed against the group with the diagnosis (24.4 vs. 72 months, p = 0.045).

Conclusion

Unresponsiveness to ESA treatment in CKD patients or a decrease in one of the other cell lines along with hemoglobin, it would be appropriate to perform early bone marrow examination.
Long‐term follow‐up of unresectable adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea and bronchus treated with high‐dose proton beam therapy: A report of two cases
Authors: Nakamura Masatoshi , Ohnishi Kayoko , Nakazawa Kensuke , Shimizu Kei , Miyauchi Daigo , Mizumoto Masashi , Nakai Kei , Okumura Toshiyuki , Sakurai Hideyuki
Published: November 2023

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the trachea is a rare disease that is slow growing and has a risk of distant metastasis. The standard treatment for ACC of the trachea is surgery, but this tumor is often unresectable. In definitive radiotherapy using photons for unresectable ACC of the trachea, it is sometimes difficult to deliver a sufficient dose to the target without exceeding the tolerable dose to the surrounding normal tissues. Here, we report two cases of ACC of the trachea that received a high dose (74 Gy [relative biological effectiveness]) of proton beam therapy and achieved long‐term survival.
How we can reduce the environmental impact of our operating theatres: a narrative review
Authors: Roscioli Robert , Wyllie Tracey , Neophytou Krystle , Dent Lana , Lowen Darren , Tan David , Dunne Ben , Hodgson Russell
Published: November 2023

Climate change is projected to become the leading cause of adverse health outcomes globally, and the healthcare system is a key contributor. Surgical theatres are three to six times more pollutant than other hospital areas, and produce anywhere from a fifth to a third of total hospital waste. Hospitals are increasingly expected to make operating theatres more sustainable, however guidelines to improve environmental sustainability are lacking, and previous research takes a narrow approach to operative sustainability. This paper presents a narrative review that, following a ‘review of reviews’ approach, aims to summarize the key recommendations to improve the environmental sustainability of surgical theatres. Key domains of discussion identified across the literature included minimisation of volatile anaesthetics, reduction of operating theatre power consumption, optimisation of surgical approach, re‐use and re‐processing of surgical instruments, waste management, and research, education and leadership. Implementation of individual items in these domains has seen significant reductions in the environmental impact of operative practice. This comprehensive summary of recommendations lays the framework from which providers can assess the sustainability of their practice and for the development of encompassing guidelines to build an environmentally sustainable surgical service.
Effects of Italian ryegrass silage supplementation on feed intake and behavior of pregnant sows
Authors: Makalani Andrew L. , Kawashima Tomoyuki , Ishii Yasuyuki , Takahashi Toshihiro
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to assess the behavior and stress status of pregnant sows following supplementation with Italian ryegrass silage (IRS) and the impact of feeding the IRS on feeding costs. Six sows with an initial body weight (BW) of 238.6 ± 5.9 kg were allotted to a 6 × 3 Latin square design with a 5‐day acclimatization period followed by a 5‐day data collection period. A commercial diet was replaced by IRS on a dry matter (DM) basis up to 0%, 9%, and 13% in the control treatment and the two test treatments, respectively. Apart from collecting data on daily feed intake and BW, urine was collected, and video footage was recorded for the last day of each treatment for analysis of urinary cortisol and behavior. There were no leftovers with all diets and nutrient uptake was unaffected (p > 0.05), while BW gain decreased (p < 0.05) to be a limited range from 1% to 3%, with increased inclusion of IRS. Both the behavior of sows and cortisol concentration were unaffected (p > 0.05). Furthermore, it was estimated that feeding 13% DM of IRS would reduce feed costs by 17%. IRS would be acceptable in replacing up to 13% of the commercial diet and cutting feeding costs.
A population pharmacokinetic model of methotrexate in Korean patients with haematologic malignancy
Authors: Jung Yun Seob , Son Mijeong , Lee Sang‐Guk , Chong June‐Won , Kim Soo‐Jeong , Jang Ji Eun , Lyu Chuhl Joo , Hahn Seung Min , Han Jung Woo , Park Kyungsoo
Published: November 2023

Aims

This study was conducted to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model of methotrexate in Korean patients with haematologic malignancy, identify factors affecting methotrexate PK, and propose an optimal dosage regimen for the Korean population.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from 188 patients with acute leukaemia or non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma who were admitted to Severance Hospital during the period from November 2005 to January 2016. Using demographic factors and laboratory results as potential covariates for PK parameters, model development was performed using NONMEM and optimal dosing regimens were developed using the final PK model.

Results

A two‐compartment model incorporating body weight via allometry best described the data, yielding typical parameter values of 25.09 L for central volume of distribution (
), 17.65 L for peripheral volume of distribution (
), 12.89 L/h for clearance (CL) and 0.655 L/h for inter‐compartmental clearance in a 50 kg patient. Covariate analyses showed that, at the weight of 50 kg, CL decreased by 0.11 L/h for each 1‐year increase in age above 14 years old and decreased 0.8‐fold when serum creatinine level doubled, indicating the importance of age‐specific dose individualization in methotrexate treatment. Volume of distribution at steady state derived from PK parameters (= 
 + 
) was 0.85 L/kg, which was similar to those in the Western or Chinese populations. Optimal doses simulated from the final model successfully produced the PK measures close to the target chosen.

Conclusions

The population PK model and optimal dosage regimens developed in this study can be used as a basis to achieve precision dosing in Korean patients with haematologic malignancy.
Attitudes and perceptions of cancer patients and healthcare providers towards prehabilitation: A thematic synthesis
Authors: Shen Chen , Gu Lianqi , Li Na , Wang Rao , Yang Xin , Chu Zhiping
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Prehabilitation, which is the process of enhancing functional capacity before undergoing surgery or other treatments, has been shown to improve cancer patients' outcomes. Patient and healthcare provider attitudes and perceptions are essential factors in the successful implementation of prehabilitation. The purpose of this systematic review is to synthesize qualitative evidence and explore the barriers and facilitators to prehabilitation implementation.

Methods

From the earliest available date to October 2023, 7 databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE) were searched for a systematic review. Data were extracted, thematically analysed, and mapped onto the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Model of Behaviour (COM‐B). The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was used to assess the quality of the studies.

Results

A total of 26 studies were included, involving 377 patients, 51 caregivers, and 156 healthcare providers. 16 factors were identified and mapped onto the COM‐B model: reflective/automatic motivation, physical/social opportunity, physical/ psychological capability.

Conclusions

Patients and healthcare provides identified a lack of reflective motivation and physical opportunities as the most significant barriers to engagement in prehabilitation. Personalized approaches, social support, and healthcare providers' engagement are key factors for prehabilitation. Future research should focus on developing effective interventions to enhance the uptake and sustainability of prehabilitation.
Autoantibody repertoire profiling in tissue and blood identifies colorectal cancer‐specific biomarkers
Authors: Zhang Pei‐Fen , Wu Ziyi , Zhou Ting , Yang Da‐Wei , Mu Quan‐Kai , Zhang Wen‐Bin , Yu Long , Zhang Shao‐Dan , Hu Ye‐Zhu , Mu Jianbing , Jia Wei‐Hua
Published: November 2023

Autoantibodies (AAbs) in the blood of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients have been evaluated for tumor detection. However, it remains uncertain whether these AAbs are specific to tumor‐associated antigens. In this study, we explored the IgG and IgM autoantibody repertoires in both the in situ tissue microenvironment and peripheral blood as potential tumor‐specific biomarkers. We applied high‐density protein arrays to profile AAbs in the tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte supernatants and corresponding serum from four patients with CRC, as well as in the serum of three noncancer controls. Our findings revealed that there were more reactive IgM AAbs than IgG in both the cell supernatant and corresponding serum, with a difference of approximately 3–5 times. Immunoglobulin G was predominant in the serum, while IgM was more abundant in the cell supernatant. We identified a range of AAbs present in both the supernatant and the corresponding serum, numbering between 432 and 780, with an average of 53.3% shared. Only 4.7% (n = 23) and 0.2% (n = 2) of reactive antigens for IgG and IgM AAbs, respectively, were specific to CRC. Ultimately, we compiled a list of 19 IgG AAb targets as potential tumor‐specific AAb candidates. Autoantibodies against one of the top candidates, p15INK4b‐related sequence/regulation of nuclear pre‐mRNA domain‐containing protein 1A (RPRD1A), were significantly elevated in 53 CRC patients compared to 119 controls (p < 0.0001). The project revealed that tissue‐derived IgG AAbs, rather than IgM, are the primary source of tumor‐specific AAbs in peripheral blood. It also identified potential tumor‐specific AAbs that could be applied for noninvasive screening of CRC.
Underwater clip closure method for mucosal defects after duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection (with video)
Authors: Ishida Tsugitaka , Dohi Osamu , Seya Mayuko , Yamauchi Katsuma , Fukui Hayato , Miyazaki Hajime , Yasuda Takeshi , Yoshida Takuma , Iwai Naoto , Inoue Ken , Yoshida Naohisa , Konishi Hideyuki , Itoh Yoshito
Published: November 2023

Conventional clip closure of mucosal defects after duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection decreases the incidence of delayed adverse events, but may result in incomplete closure, depending on size or location. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the underwater clip closure method for complete duodenal defect closure without the difficulties associated with conventional closure methods. We investigated 19 patients with 20 lesions who underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection of the duodenum and subsequent mucosal defect closure in underwater conditions at our facility between February 2021 and January 2022. The success rate of the underwater clip closure method was defined as the complete endoscopic closure of the mucosal defect; a success rate of 100% was achieved. The median resected specimen size was 34.3 mm, the median procedure time for mucosal defect closure was 14 min, and the median number of clips used per patient was 12. No delayed adverse events were observed. The underwater clip closure method is a feasible option for complete closure of mucosal defects, regardless of the size or location of a duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection.
Evaluation of dental education during the pandemic of COVID‐19—Results from an online survey among dental students
Authors: Glockner Sebastian , Payer Michael , Kirnbauer Barbara , Mischak Irene , Subbalekha Keskanya , Mattheos Nikos
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The aim of this study was to assess the students' experience with education during the COVID‐19 pandemic, as well as to investigate their views moving forward after resumption of face‐to‐face education.

Materials and Methods

A questionnaire was administered to dental students in clinical dental education at seven dental schools. The questionnaire included 33 items organized in three sections: (a) Demographics, (b) Perceptions/activity during lockdown, and (c) Perceptions/activity upon resumption of face‐to‐face teaching.

Results

A total of 286 students from seven universities in Europe and Asia participated. Students' satisfaction with education during the pandemic varied among universities and ranged between 36%–80%, but students engaged in delivering emergency care had a significantly higher opinion (p = .001). Students who felt that their workload decreased, were commonly 24 years old or older (p = .015), male (p = .05) reported lower concentration and motivation, experienced a more severe disruption and valued lower the efforts of their universities to ensure the continuity of education (p = .009). The majority of the students (80.3%) felt confident to resume clinical training after the lockdown. In general, female students experienced a higher disruption of their education during the pandemic (p = .043) and expressed lower confidence to continue clinical training in comparison to their male colleagues (p = .001).

Conclusion

Students’ perception of their workload during the COVID‐19 lockdown was very diverse, with those experiencing a reduction in workload being more likely to express lower satisfaction as well. Female students experienced a higher level of disruption. Engaging students in the delivery of emergency care had a positive effect on their appreciation of the education.
Differential patterns of basal and naloxone‐evoked dopamine efflux in the rat dorsal and ventral striatum following prolonged‐intermittent exposure to morphine
Authors: Ahn Soyon , Zou Haiyan , Seamans Jeremy K. , Phillips Anthony G.
Published: November 2023

Hypodopaminergia in the ventral striatum is a putative neurobiological correlate of withdrawal in opioid‐dependent individuals. This perspective stands in contrast to brain imaging studies with chronic opioid users showing that naloxone‐enhanced dopamine (DA) release in the dorsal striatum is positively correlated with withdrawal aversion. Here, we examined regional differences in striatal DA function associated with opioid withdrawal in rats exposed to intermittent morphine injections for 31 days. Basal concentrations of DA were reduced (i.e., indicating a hypodopaminergic state) in the ventral striatum on Day 10 of morphine exposure, whereas a more prolonged period of morphine treatment was required to reveal hypodopaminergia in the dorsal striatum on Day 31. The ventral striatum consistently exhibited naloxone‐induced transient reductions in DA below the hypodopaminergic basal levels, whereas morphine enhanced DA efflux. In the dorsal striatum, DA responsivity to naloxone shifted from a significant decrease on Day 10 to a notable increase above hypodopaminergic basal levels on Day 31, corroborating the findings in the human dorsal striatum. Unexpectedly, the magnitude of morphine‐evoked increases in DA efflux on Day 31 was significantly blunted relative to values on Day 10. These findings indicate that prolonged‐intermittent access to morphine results in a sustained hypodopaminergic state as reflected in basal levels in the striatum, which is accompanied by regional differences in DA responsivity to naloxone and morphine. Overall, our findings suggest that prolonging the duration of morphine exposure to 31 days is sufficient to reveal neuroadaptations that may underlie the transition from initial drug exposure to opioid dependence.
Telling a supervisor about experiences of gendered dismissal: Problems of documentation, tellability, and failed authority
Authors: Stevanovic Melisa , Olakivi Antero , Nevalainen Henri , Henttonen Pentti , Ravaja Niklas
Published: November 2023

Difficulties of documentation characterize many problematic experiences of social interaction. Here, we study such difficulties by analyzing a case in which an employee tells her supervisor about the gendered dismissal that she has experienced at work. Using video‐recorded performance appraisal interviews as data and conversation analysis and positioning analysis as methods, we examine how the experience of gendered dismissal lends itself to a documentable issue. We describe the process by which the problem that the employee initially described as an organizational leadership issue became redefined as a personal matter, which was not the responsibility of the supervisor. We show how this happened by the supervisor refraining from treating the employee's problem as “tellable” on its own terms, which led to the employee repeatedly changing her storyline. We argue that the persistence of inequalities in organizational interactions may be due to documentation difficulties, which are anchored in cultural expectations that bias the tellability of events in ways that promote gender inequality.
Beyond the Polemics: Freedom and Necessity in Plotinus and St Maximus Confessor
Authors: Heide Daniel
Published: November 2023

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to challenge the prevailing polemic between ‘necessary’ emanation and ‘free’ creation. I begin by arguing for the presence of freedom and volition in the emanationism of Plotinus. I then move on to explore the role of necessity in the creationism of Maximus. In both cases, I rely upon a twofold schematisation of freedom and necessity to dissolve the dichotomy between them effectively. Having levelled the playing field, so to speak, I conclude that, all things being equal, one does find in Maximus (and Christian thinkers generally) a heightened sense of divine volition and relationality beyond that of the pagan Neoplatonists. This greater emphasis upon the freedom of the divine will, however, has little bearing on whether Maximus's doctrine of creation is ‘emanationist’ or ‘creationist’. Instead, it stems from a biblically inspired sense of the One God as intimately involved in His creation which, though derived from God, is crucially other than God.
Sulfur‐rich mafic magma injection into the felsic magma chamber beneath Asama volcano, central Japan: Records in olivine‐hosted melt inclusions from the Itabana and Tenmei eruptions
Authors: Yamaguchi Yoshiaki , Auer Andreas , Miyagi Isoji
Published: November 2023

Even though no basalts have erupted at Asama volcano, its large, felsic magma chamber standing beneath the summit is frequently replenished by cryptic injections of mafic magma of basalt‐basaltic andesite composition. This mafic magma is preserved within melt inclusions trapped in olivine phenocrysts collected from the old Itabana pumice of the Kurofu stage and the Tenmei pumice of the current Maekake stage. The trapped mafic melts provide a detailed and vivid record of cryptic mafic magma injection into the felsic chamber where they admix to erupt andesite magma. The main phenocrysts of plagioclase, orthopyroxene, and clinopyroxene, commonly seen in the erupted products, are derived from the felsic magmas and trapped felsic melts of dacite‐rhyolite compositions, containing low sulfur contents (0.3 wt% of SO3 or less; most are lower than 0.10 wt%). In contrast, the mafic melts, entrapped by olivine phenocrysts, show high concentrations of SO3, up to 1.06 wt% for Itabana and SO3 0.65 wt% for Tenmei. In addition, the olivine phenocryst commonly encloses early crystalline phases precipitated from the sulfur‐rich mafic magma, such as Cr‐spinel, Mg‐rich orthopyroxene, Fe, Cu, and Ni‐bearing sulfides, and often Al‐rich clinopyroxene. The olivine‐hosted mafic melt inclusions always contain numerous vesicles. Furthermore, they are often included as hourglass‐shaped trapped melts, exhibiting snapshots of intense foaming and gas phase exsolution during the olivine growth and probably in the process of the cryptic injection into the felsic magma beneath the Asama summit. Our new data contributes to a better understanding of the magmatic system of the Asama volcano but also highlight the importance of the “Excess sulfur problem”, especially concerning the 1783 Tenmai eruption, which was contemporary to the Laki Fires.
Risk factors and timing of complication presentation following primary hypospadias repair in adolescents
Authors: Ye Zi‐Han , Wang Chong , Zhang Zhi‐Cheng , Chen Hong‐Song , Wang Xiao , Liu Xing , Wei Guang‐Hui
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the risk factors for postoperative complications in adolescents who undergo primary hypospadias repair and determine the time required for complication detection.

Methods

Our study included patients classified as Tanner stages three to five who underwent primary hypospadias repairs at our hospital from January 2015 to August 2022. The patients' baseline information, clinical characteristics, postoperative complications, and time to complication detection were collected. Cox regression analysis, ROC curves, Kaplan–Meier survival analyses, and the Mann–Whitney U test were used.

Results

The study comprised 143 patients, with a median age of 12.58 years. Postoperative complications were experienced by 66 patients. The length of the urethral defect was identified as an independent risk factor for postoperative complications. The ROC curve analysis identified 3 cm as the optimal cutoff value for the length of the urethral defect. The median time to complication detection was 30.5 days (IQR 23 to 209.25). 89.4% of the complications were identified within the first year. Patients with a urethral defect of <3 cm experienced a significantly longer time for the detection of urethral fistula compared to those with a urethral defect of ≥3 cm (p = 0.047).

Conclusions

Our data indicate that adolescents with a urethral defect ≥3 cm have a higher risk of postoperative complications. Although most complications were identified within the first year, conducting long‐term follow‐ups for adolescents is recommended to identify potential subsequent complications that may arise from persistent urethral alterations.
Strategic subdelegation
Authors: Feinstein Brian D. , Nou Jennifer
Published: November 2023

Appointed leaders of administrative agencies routinely record subdelegations of governmental authority to civil servants. That appointees willingly cede authority in this way presents a puzzle, at least at first glance: Why do these appointees assign their power to civil servants insulated by merit protection laws, that is, to employees over whom they have limited control? This article develops and tests a theory to explain this behavior. Using original data on appointee‐to‐civil servant delegations and a measure of the ideological distance between these two groups of actors, we show that appointees are more willing to vest power in civil servants when the two groups are more closely aligned. They are particularly likely to do so in the last months of a presidential administration, prior to a transition to a new set of appointees from a different party. Essentially, appointees strategically devolve authority to ideologically similar civil servants to entrench their views in the face of oppositional future presidential administrations. Further, judicial doctrine and interest‐group politics can make existing subdelegations difficult to reverse. This stickiness adds to the strategic value of subdelegations as a means of projecting preferences into future administrations. These findings raise important implications for administrative law and governance. One conventional wisdom on intra‐agency dynamics considers appointees and civil servants as rivals. Relatedly, studies of personnel practices focus on strategies to empower appointees and sideline civil servants. This article, by contrast, shows how appointees and civil servants can act as strategic partners under certain conditions. At a time when leading political figures propose fundamental changes to the civil service, our findings call for a more nuanced understanding of the dynamics between political appointees and civil servants.
Incorporating co‐design principles and social media strategies to enhance cross‐sectional online survey participation: The Birth Experience Study
Authors: Keedle Hazel , Dahlen Hannah G.
Published: November 2023

Aim

To use co‐design principles to design a nationwide maternity experiences survey and to distribute the survey through social media.

Design

A co‐designed, cross sectional, and national online survey.

Methods

Using co‐design principles from study design and throughout the research process a cross‐sectional, online, national survey of Australian women's experiences of maternity care was designed. Four validated survey instruments were included in the survey design.

Results

An extensive social media strategy was utilized, which included paid advertising, resulting in 8804 surveys for analysis and 54,896 comments responding to open text questions.

Discussion

The inclusion of co‐design principles contributed to a well‐designed survey and consumer involvement in distribution and support of the online survey. The social media distribution strategy contributed to high participation rates with overall low marketing costs.

Clinical Relevance

Maternity services should be designed to provide woman‐centered, individualized care. This survey was co‐designed with maternity users and maternity organizations to explore women's recent experiences of maternity care in Australia. The outcomes of this study will highlight the factors that contribute to positive and negative experiences in maternity services.

Patient or Public Contribution

As a co‐designed study, there was consumer engagement from the design of the study, throughout the research process.
Secret Bilateral Forward Contracting*
Authors: Van Moer Geert
Published: November 2023

I analyze secret bilateral forward contracting in a Cournot oligopoly. A secret bilateral forward contract affects the production quantities of the firms which are party to the contract but not of the outsiders. On the one hand, forward contracts facilitate for heterogeneous firms to rationalize production across facilities. On the other hand, firms also consider how forward contracting affects their combined production. I show that the spot market is less concentrated than the ownership of dispatchable facilities in the industry. Furthermore, the ownership distribution of nondispatchable facilities is irrelevant for consumer welfare. I discuss implications for policy in electricity markets.
High incidence of immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases in sepsis survivors: A nationwide exposed‐nonexposed epidemiological study
Authors: Mageau Arthur , Helary Aloïs , Ruckly Stephane , Strukov Andrey , Papo Thomas , Timsit Jean‐François , Sacre Karim
Published: November 2023

Objective

Sepsis is characterized by an excessive release of inflammatory cytokines. Cytokine dysregulation is pivotal to the pathophysiology of immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). We aimed to analyze the incidence of IMIDs in patients who survived sepsis.

Methods

We performed a matched‐cohort study using the National Medico‐Administrative Hospital database in order to analyze the association between sepsis and incident IMIDs in 2020 in France. Sepsis was defined by the combination of at least one infection diagnosis code and one organ failure code. Patients with a first sepsis diagnosed in 2020 were randomly matched with patients admitted during the same period for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with an exact matching procedure using age, gender, and comorbidities as matching variables. The main outcome was an IMID diagnosis in a 9‐month follow‐up period starting the first day of hospitalization for sepsis or AMI.

Results

In France, the incidence rate of IMIDs after a sepsis in 2020—analyzed in 62,257 patients—was of 7956 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 7392–8520) per 100,000 patient‐years. As compared to the AMI population, we observed an increased risk for IMIDs of 2.80 (hazard ratio [HR]; 95% CI [2.22–3.54]) starting from day 16 after admission in the sepsis population. The risk of IMIDs onset in sepsis survivors depended on the type of IMIDs and was higher for immune thrombocytopenia (5.51 [1.97–15.4]), autoimmune hemolytic anemia (HR 4.83 [1.45–16.1]), and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis (4.66 [2.05–10.6]). Association between sepsis and IMIDs onset appeared well balanced across pathogen categories.

Conclusion

Our study shows a high incidence of IMIDs among sepsis survivors.
Minimal hepatic encephalopathy is associated with a higher risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy and poorer survival
Authors: Gairing Simon Johannes , Mangini Chiara , Zarantonello Lisa , Gioia Stefania , Nielsen Elise Jonasson , Danneberg Sven , Lok Anna S. , Sultanik Philippe , Galle Peter Robert , Labenz Joachim , Thabut Dominique , Marquardt Jens Uwe , Bloom Patricia P. , Lauridsen Mette Munk , Montagnese Sara , Nardelli Silvia , Labenz Christian
Published: November 2023

Background and aims

Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is a frequent complication in patients with liver cirrhosis. Its impact on predicting the development of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) and survival has not been studied in large multicenter studies.

Methods

Data from patients recruited at eight centers across Europe and the United States were analyzed. MHE was detected using the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES). A subset was also tested with the simplified animal naming test (S‐ANT1). Patients were followed for OHE development and death/liver transplantation (LTx).

Results

A total of 1462 patients with a median model of end‐stage liver disease of 11 were included (Child‐Pugh (CP) stages: A 47%/B 41%/C 12%). Median follow‐up time was 19 months, during which 336 (23%) patients developed an OHE episode and 464 (32%) reached the composite end point of death/LTx (369 deaths, 95 LTx). In multivariable analyses, MHE (defined by PHES) was associated with the development of OHE (subdistribution hazard ratio 1.74, p < 0.001) and poorer LTx‐free survival (hazard ratio 1.53, p < 0.001) in the total cohort as well as in the subgroup of patients without a history of OHE. In subgroup analyses, MHE (defined by PHES) was associated with OHE development in patients with CP B, whereas there was no association in patients with CP A or C. In the subgroup of patients with available S‐ANT1, MHE (defined by S‐ANT1) was independently associated with OHE development. Combined testing (PHES+S‐ANT1) was superior to single testing for predicting OHE and poorer LTx‐free survival.

Conclusions

This large multicenter study demonstrates that screening for MHE is a useful tool for predicting OHE and poorer survival.
Gephyrocapsa huxleyi (Emiliania huxleyi) as a model system for coccolithophore biology
Authors: Wheeler Glen L. , Sturm Daniela , Langer Gerald
Published: November 2023

Coccolithophores are the most abundant calcifying organisms in modern oceans and are important primary producers in many marine ecosystems. Their ability to generate a cellular covering of calcium carbonate plates (coccoliths) plays a major role in marine biogeochemistry and the global carbon cycle. Coccolithophores also play an important role in sulfur cycling through the production of the climate‐active gas dimethyl sulfide. The primary model organism for coccolithophore research is Emiliania huxleyi, now named Gephyrocapsa huxleyi. G. huxleyi has a cosmopolitan distribution, occupying coastal and oceanic environments across the globe, and is the most abundant coccolithophore in modern oceans. Research in G. huxleyi has identified many aspects of coccolithophore biology, from cell biology to ecological interactions. In this perspective, we summarize the key advances made using G. huxleyi and examine the emerging tools for research in this model organism. We discuss the key steps that need to be taken by the research community to advance G. huxleyi as a model organism and the suitability of other species as models for specific aspects of coccolithophore biology.
Invasive fungal infection incidence and risk factors in patients receiving ibrutinib in real‐life settings: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Allouchery Marion , Brunet Kévin , Tomowiak Cécile , Singier Allison , Pambrun Elodie , Pariente Antoine , Bezin Julien , Pérault‐Pochat Marie‐Christine , Salvo Francesco
Published: November 2023

Background

Data on the risk of invasive fungal infections (IFI) with ibrutinib treatment are scarce.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine IFI incidence and risk factors in ibrutinib‐treated patients in real‐life settings.

Methods

We constituted a cohort of ibrutinib incident users in the French National Healthcare Database. All patients ≥18 years with a first dispensing of ibrutinib between 21 November 2014 and 31 December 2019 were included. Patients were followed from the cohort entry date until IFI, ibrutinib discontinuation, death, or 31 December 2020, whichever came first. The cumulative incidence function method was used to estimate the probability of IFI accounting for competing risk of death. A multivariate cause‐specific Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess independent IFI risk factors.

Results

Among 6937 ibrutinib‐treated patients, 1‐year IFI cumulative incidence was 1.3%, with invasive aspergillosis being the most frequent. Allogenic or autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) (hazard ratio [HR] 3.59, 95% confidence interval [1.74; 7.41]), previous anticancer treatment (HR 2.12, CI 95% [1.34; 3.35]) and chronic respiratory disease (HR 1.66, [1.03; 2.67]) were associated with higher risk of IFI. Besides neutropenia and corticosteroids, use of anti‐CD20 agents was significantly more frequent in patients having experienced IFI (HR 3.68, [1.82; 7.45]).

Conclusions

In addition to patients with ASCT history, severe neutropenia or treated with corticosteroids, our findings support active surveillance of IFIs in those with chronic respiratory disease, previously treated, or treated with anti‐CD20 agents in combination with ibrutinib. Further studies are needed to optimise IFI prophylaxis in these patient subgroups.
The social life of digital methods in psychology: Situating digital methods in the new data politics
Authors: Yen Jeffery
Published: November 2023

In this paper I present some preliminary analyses of what is at stake in the growing use of digital methods in psychology. Their exponential rise in the discipline has scientific consequences, because such methods embody unarticulated assumptions that derive from their cultural, technical, or commercial origins. Such methods also rearticulate researcher‐participant relations in new ways, and reframe what it means to take part in psychological research. Additionally, strong calls for psychologists to exploit the potentials of Big Data to analyze and influence human action in real time signal the growing entanglement of psychology, computer science, and the accumulative tactics of the digital economy. As part of a larger project to trace the social life of digital methods in psychology, my aim here is to link disparate literature in psychology, science and technology studies, and critical data studies, to situate such methods in the broader context of technologically afforded shifts in modes of economic and knowledge production. I argue that digital methods are in urgent need of analysis, not only in terms of the interpretive frames, modes of participation, and courses of action they afford, but as research media that circulate in a larger digital and political economic ecosystem, and with associations that span multiple sociotechnical assemblages.
Infectious complications among CD19 CAR‐T cell therapy recipients: A single‐center experience
Authors: Walker Bryan , Zimmer Andrea J. , Stohs Erica J. , Lunning Matthew , Lyden Elizabeth , Abbas Anum
Published: November 2023

Background

CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell therapy has emerged as an effective treatment in those with refractory or relapsed lymphoma. CD19 CAR‐T cell therapy can cause direct and indirect toxic adverse effects and increased risk for infection. Infectious complications and optimal antimicrobial prophylaxis strategies are an ongoing area of investigation.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective cohort study was conducted to review recipients of CD19 CAR‐T cell therapy between April 2018 and December 2020. Patient characteristics and clinical outcomes were extracted from the electronic health records.

Results

Infectious complications were identified in 18/50 (36%) recipients with 31 episodes of infection. The median time to infection was 225 days (range 0–614). Bacterial infections were most common with bloodstream infection followed by sinusitis and skin and soft tissue infection. Eight viral infections were identified, most being respiratory viral illnesses. Two fungal infections were identified: Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) and disseminated fusariosis. Seventeen infections (54.8%) were classified as severe: leading to death, requiring hospitalization, need for empiric intravenous antibiotics, or significant alteration in hospital course. No characteristics were found to be statistically significant risks for infection, although a trend toward significance was seen in prior autologous stem cell transplant recipients (p = .12) and those with recurrent neutropenia (p = .14). Three patients (6%) died from infection.

Conclusion

Infections were common after CD19 CAR‐T cell therapy and occurred beyond the first year. Further multicenter studies are needed to define infectious risks and optimize antimicrobial prophylaxis recommendations in recipients of CD19 CAR‐T cell therapy.

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