bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using numerical-experimental analysis to evaluate rPET mechanical behavior under compressive stresses and MEX additive manufacturing for new sustainable designs
Authors: Mercado-Colmenero Jorge Manuel , La Rubia M. Dolores , Mata-García Elena , Rodriguez-Santiago Moisés , Martin-Doñate Cristina
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Because of the anisotropy of the process and the variability in the quality of printed parts, finite element analysis is not directly applicable to recycled materials manufactured using fused filament fabrication. The purpose of this study is to investigate the numerical-experimental mechanical behavior modeling of the recycled polymer, that is, recyclable polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), manufactured by a deposition FFF process under compressive stresses for new sustainable designs.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 42 test specimens were manufactured and analyzed according to the ASTM D695-15 standards. Eight numerical analyzes were performed on a real design manufactured with rPET using Young's compression modulus from the experimental tests. Finally, eight additional experimental tests under uniaxial compression loads were performed on the real sustainable design for validating its mechanical behavior versus computational numerical tests.

Findings

As a result of the experimental tests, rPET behaves linearly until it reaches the elastic limit, along each manufacturing axis. The results of this study confirmed the design's structural safety by the load scenario and operating boundary conditions. Experimental and numerical results show a difference of 0.001–0.024 mm, allowing for the rPET to be configured as isotropic in numerical simulation software without having to modify its material modeling equations.

Practical implications

The results obtained are of great help to industry, designers and researchers because they validate the use of recycled rPET for the ecological production of real-sustainable products using MEX technology under compressive stress and its configuration for numerical simulations. Major design companies are now using recycled plastic materials in their high-end designs.

Originality/value

Validation results have been presented on test specimens and real items, comparing experimental material configuration values with numerical results. Specifically, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no industrial or scientific work has been conducted with rPET subjected to uniaxial compression loads for characterizing experimentally and numerically the material using these results for validating a real case of a sustainable industrial product.
Work-life balance -a systematic review
Authors: S. Thilagavathy , S.N. Geetha
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to systematically review the existing literature and develop an understanding of work-life balance (WLB) and its relationship with other forms of work-related behavior and unearth research gaps to recommend future research possibilities and priorities.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study attempts to make a detailed survey of the research work done by the pioneers in the domain WLB and its related aspects. A total of 99 research work has been included in this systematic review. The research works have been classified based on the year of publication, geographical distribution, the methodology used and the sector. The various concepts and components that have made significant contributions, factors that influence WLB, importance and implications are discussed.

Findings

The paper points to the research gaps and scope for future research in the area of WLB.

Originality/value

The current study uncovered the research gaps regarding the systematic review and classifications based on demography, year of publication, the research method used and sector being studied.
Wireless microphones for students who are deaf and hard of hearing: Czech teachers' perspective
Authors: Gabova Kristyna , Furstova Jana , Tavel Peter
Published: July 2023

Wireless remote microphones (WRM) are used as secondary assistive listening devices for students with hearing aids or cochlear implants to limit the negative effects of noise and distance for understanding speech. WRM technology is not yet widespread in the Czech Republic. The aim of this study was to use teachers' perspectives to compare the benefit of WRM in different situations and settings for students who are DHH. A final sample consisted of 36 teachers who had experience with and without WRM with their particular student. Bayesian statistical methods were used to analyse the data. When using a WRM, teachers reported better overall student responses, greater engagement of the students in the classroom, better management of multiple instructions and a reduction of the students' need to ask questions and the confusion of similar‐sounding words. The WRM technology might help to mitigate the effects of hearing loss and advance equal opportunities in education. The use of these technologies should thus be more supported among Czech students, their caregivers and teachers.
Measuring Local Economic Activity Using Pedestrian Count Data*
Authors: Navon Yonatan , de Silva Ashton
Published: July 2023

Measures of timely local economic activity are elusive. In this study, we explore the extent to which the volume of pedestrians in a central business district may be associated with its economic activity. Both logically and theoretically there is a strong rationale to expect such a relationship. We find that this is supported empirically also. We also briefly consider the extent to which this observed association may be applied to other use cases.
Autoimmune pancreatitis associated with inflammatory bowel diseases: A retrospectively bidirectional case–control study in China
Authors: Yu Zi Qing , Bai Xiao Yin , Ruan Ge Chong , Han Wei , Xu Tian Ming , Zhang Meng Yuan , Wang Bei Ming , Zhang Yu Jia , Guo Ming Yue , Yang Hong
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a rare and enigmatic immune‐mediated inflammatory disease. We aimed to investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and associated factors of AIP‐inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in China.

Methods

A retrospective bidirectional case–control study was performed. The diagnoses of IBD and AIP were made based on the European Crohn's and Colitis Organization guidelines and the International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria. IBD controls were matched by age, sex, and IBD type at a ratio of 1:4, while AIP controls were matched by AIP types.

Results

The age‐standardized prevalence of AIP‐IBD patients in the IBD and AIP population were 292.0 and 8151.93 per 100 000 population, respectively. IBD patients had a higher risk of AIP compared to non‐IBD patients (odds ratio 8.4, 95% confidence interval 4.7–14.9, P < 0.0001), and AIP patients had a higher risk of developing IBD compared to the general population in China. The mean age at diagnosis of IBD and AIP was 34.83 years and 40.42 years. IBD was diagnosed before AIP in seven cases. The median total IBD and AIP duration was 43.5 months and 13.5 months. Use of mesalamine and tuberculosis were associated with AIP in IBD patients (P = 0.031). And fecal occult blood test was associated with IBD in AIP patients (P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Most AIP‐IBD patients had ulcerative colitis and type 2 AIP. IBD patients are more likely to develop AIP compared to the general population, and vice versa. Use of mesalamine and tuberculosis infection were associated with AIP, and fecal occult blood test was associated with IBD.
Voluntary Carbon Reporting Prediction: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Frost Geoffrey , Jones Stewart , Yu Muchen
Published: July 2023

In this paper we address the impact of the introduction of the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting scheme on corporate carbon reporting, and subsequently identify factors that influence the level of voluntary carbon reporting. A review of the literature demonstrates a large number of potential factors have been previously deployed to explain voluntary reporting practices; however, the analytical and empirical methods widely used in the literature have limiting statistical assumptions and confine analysis to a small number of explanatory factors. To address this limitation in prior research we apply advanced machine learning methods, such as gradient boosting machines and random forests, to identify predictive variables through analytical means. We compare the performance of machine learning methods with traditional methods such as logistic regression. We find that machine learning methods significantly outperform logistic regression and provide fundamentally different interpretations of the role and influence of different predictive variables on voluntary carbon reporting. While most variables were not statistically significant in the logit results, a number of key proxies for financial performance, corporate governance, and corporate social responsibility have out‐of‐sample predictive power of the level of voluntary carbon reporting in the machine learning analysis.
Australian consensus: Treatment goals for moderate to severe psoriasis in the era of targeted therapies – Adult patients
Authors: Foley Peter , Gebauer Kurt , Sullivan John , McMeniman Erin , Shumack Stephen , Ng Jonathan , James Amelia , Rawlin Morton , Sidhu Shireen , Tilakaratne Dev , Turner Murray , Radulski Barbara , Nash Peter , Baker Christopher
Published: July 2023

Background

Over the last decade, the treatment landscape for moderate–severe psoriasis has rapidly evolved. The Australasian College of Dermatologists sought to review and update previously published treatment goals for moderate–severe psoriasis.

Methods

A modified Delphi approach was used. Comprehensive literature review and guideline evaluation resulted in the development of statements and other questions to establish current clinical practices. Two rounds of anonymous voting were undertaken, with a collaborative meeting held in between to discuss areas of discordance. Overall, consensus was defined as achievement of ≥75% agreement in the range 7–9 on a 9‐point scale (1 strongly disagree; 9 strongly agree).

Results

Consensus was achieved on 26/29 statements in round 1 and a further 20 statements in round 2. There was strong agreement to expanding the classification/definition of psoriasis severity by including a choice of metrics, incorporating quality of life measures, and widening the scope of high‐impact sites. Consensus was also reached on revised treatment response criteria, which were then incorporated into a new treatment algorithm. There was discordance with the current requirement to undertake a trial with established systemic agents before accessing targeted therapy.

Conclusion

The ability of new targeted treatment options to change the narrative in psoriasis patient care can only be properly realised if challenges to timely and equitable access are addressed. The proposed framework for the assessment, classification and management of moderate–severe psoriasis aligns with international recommendations. Its adoption into Australian clinical practice is hoped to improve treatment outcomes and patients' satisfaction with their care.
The impact of new prison construction on the likelihood of incarceration
Authors: Bonneau Daniel D. , Hall Joshua C.
Published: July 2023

Prison overcrowding is a major public policy issue with roughly 2.2 million individuals currently incarcerated in the United States. In the absence of reductions in the prison population, the only way to address overcrowding are the expansion of current facilities or the construction of new prisons. Previous research has demonstrated that factors unrelated to the law can affect the decisions made by prosecutors and judges. We investigate the effect of newly constructed prisons in Florida on the probability of defendants being sentenced to prison within 6 months of the prison receiving inmates. The results reveal that these defendants have a greater likelihood of being incarcerated in prison compared to similar defendants whose cases were resolved before the prison became operational. This indicates the potential for a regional‐level substitution between jail and prison incarceration.
Social network investment of men: Cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations with mental health problems
Authors: Mansour Kayla , Greenwood Christopher J. , Francis Lauren M. , Smith Imogene , Olsson Craig A. , Macdonald Jacqui A.
Published: July 2023

Internationally, there is growing attention on links between social isolation and mental health problems. Here, we use unique Australian longitudinal data to investigate associations between adult men's (n = 507; age M = 29.90, SD = 1.31) social network investments and their concurrent and subsequent mental health problems. In linear regressions, using generalised estimating equations (GEEs), we examined associations between social network investment (time with friends, network size and various activities with friends) and mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety and stress) across five timepoints. Models were adjusted for waves of outcome and potential confounders. Cross‐sectionally, each social network investment variable, except for drinking with friends, was negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Men's extended friendship network size and sharing a meal with friends were negatively associated with concurrent anxiety and stress. Time spent and physical activity with friends was also negatively associated with concurrent stress. In longitudinal analyses, after adjusting for prior depressive symptoms, only the number of friends in close and extended networks remained protective against depressive symptoms 1 year later. Results did not differ by fatherhood or relationship status. Programs designed to strengthen men's investment in social networks are recommended to reduce men's depressive symptoms.
Informed consent, price transparency, and disclosure
Authors: Director Samuel
Published: July 2023

In the American medical system, patients do not know the final price of treatment until long after the treatment is given, at which point it is too late to say “no.” I argue that without price disclosure many, perhaps all, tokens of consent in clinical medicine fall below the standard of valid, informed consent. This is a sweeping and broad thesis. The reason for this thesis is surprisingly simple: medical services rarely have prices attached to them that are known to the patient prior to treatment. Yet, for many patients, knowledge of the price is relevant to whether they would give consent. If informed consent requires that patients know all information about their treatment that is relevant to their decision, then consent to a medical intervention in the absence of the price is not informed consent.
Detrusor relaxing agents for neurogenic detrusor overactivity: a systematic review, meta‐analysis and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Zhonghan , Wang Xuesheng , Li Xunhua , Liao Limin
Published: July 2023

Objective

To evaluate the evidence regarding the therapeutic benefits and safety of oral detrusor relaxing agents (DRAs) in treating neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO).

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed on 1 September 2022. Two authors independently reviewed the articles to extract data using a pre‐designed form. The meta‐analysis was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement. A common‐effect or random‐effects model was used based on the heterogeneity among studies. Bayesian network meta‐analysis (NMA) was further performed to make indirect comparisons of antimuscarinics and mirabegron.

Results

A total of 23 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 1697 patients were included in our analysis. Compared to placebo, the clinical benefits of oral DRAs, along with more adverse events (AEs), were demonstrated in the treatment of NDO. In the subgroup analysis, antimuscarinics significantly improved both urodynamic and bladder diary outcomes (including urinary incontinence episodes, urinary frequency, and residual volume), with a higher rate of AEs, such as xerostomia. Mirabegron improved some of the parameters and had fewer bothersome side‐effects in patients with NDO. The NMA showed that none of the antimuscarinics or mirabegron was superior or inferior to the other.

Conclusions

Detrusor relaxing agents are associated with improved outcomes in patients with NDO and our analysis has added new evidence regarding antimuscarinics. Evidence concerning mirabegron as first‐line therapy for NDO is still limited. Well‐designed RCTs are still required in this specific population.
Inorganic phosphate exporter heterozygosity in mice leads to brain vascular calcification, microangiopathy, and microgliosis
Authors: Maheshwari Upasana , Mateos José M. , Weber‐Stadlbauer Ulrike , Ni Ruiqing , Tamatey Virgil , Sridhar Sucheta , Restrepo Alejandro , de Jong Pim A. , Huang Sheng‐Fu , Schaffenrath Johanna , Stifter Sebastian A. , Szeri Flora , Greter Melanie , Koek Huiberdina L. , Keller Annika
Published: July 2023

Calcification of the cerebral microvessels in the basal ganglia in the absence of systemic calcium and phosphate imbalance is a hallmark of primary familial brain calcification (PFBC), a rare neurodegenerative disorder. Mutation in genes encoding for sodium‐dependent phosphate transporter 2 (SLC20A2), xenotropic and polytropic retrovirus receptor 1 (XPR1), platelet‐derived growth factor B (PDGFB), platelet‐derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRB), myogenesis regulating glycosidase (MYORG), and junctional adhesion molecule 2 (JAM2) are known to cause PFBC. Loss‐of‐function mutations in XPR1, the only known inorganic phosphate exporter in metazoans, causing dominantly inherited PFBC was first reported in 2015 but until now no studies in the brain have addressed whether loss of one functional allele leads to pathological alterations in mice, a commonly used organism to model human diseases. Here we show that mice heterozygous for Xpr1 (Xpr1WT/lacZ) present with reduced inorganic phosphate levels in the cerebrospinal fluid and age‐ and sex‐dependent growth of vascular calcifications in the thalamus. Vascular calcifications are surrounded by vascular basement membrane and are located at arterioles in the smooth muscle layer. Similar to previously characterized PFBC mouse models, vascular calcifications in Xpr1WT/lacZ mice contain bone matrix proteins and are surrounded by reactive astrocytes and microglia. However, microglial activation is not confined to calcified vessels but shows a widespread presence. In addition to vascular calcifications, we observed vessel tortuosity and transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed microangiopathy—endothelial swelling, phenotypic alterations in vascular smooth muscle cells, and thickening of the basement membrane.
Antiproliferation and apoptosis studies of estrone pharmacophores in triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Acheampong Felix , Ostlund Trevor , Mahnashi Mater , Halaweish Fathi
Published: July 2023

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that shows high metastatic capability and poor prognosis. The aggressive behavior of TNBC may involve amplified EGFR expression. Currently, no targeted therapy has been approved for treating TNBC, which urgently needs novel treatment options. In this study, we report that estrone analogs with novel pharmacophores exhibited high potency toward TNBC cells through multiple mechanisms, inhibition of cell proliferation via EGFR receptor, and induction of mitochondrial apoptosis. Molecular docking studies revealed that hit analogs MMA307 and MMA321 were potent against the EGFR receptor (pdb code: 1M17) in silico and were over 10‐fold more potent than sorafenib (positive control) when dosed against MDA‐MB‐468 cells in vitro. MMA307 and MMA321 induced mitochondrial apoptosis as characterized by condensed nuclei with fragmented chromatin, phosphatidylserine flip and modulated expressions of Apaf1, cytochrome c, and caspases 3 and 9. MMA307 and MMA321 inhibited TNBC proliferation through suppression of EGFR and activated EGFR (Y1068) expressions. Similarly, EGFR signaling pathways, RAF/ERK and AKT/mTOR, were inhibited as pARaf, pERK1/2 (characterizes RAF/ERK pathway) and pAKT, pmTOR, p70S6Kα (characterizes AKT/mTOR pathway) were all suppressed. Moreover, MMA307 and MMA321 inhibited TNBC cell growth through downregulation of cyclin D1 expression and arresting TNBC cells in the G1 phase of cell cycle. This study reports for the first time that estrone congeners with novel pharmacophores may be an effective therapy for TNBC. Findings from this research provide a solid foundation for further preclinical and clinical studies in developing estrone derivatives as novel TNBC therapeutics.
Effective conservation of subterranean‐roosting bats
Authors: Meierhofer Melissa B. , Johnson Joseph S. , Perez‐Jimenez Janette , Ito Fernanda , Webela Paul W. , Wiantoro Sigit , Bernard Enrico , Tanalgo Krizler C. , Hughes Alice , Cardoso Pedro , Lilley Thomas , Mammola Stefano
Published: July 2023

Bats frequently inhabit caves and other subterranean habitats and play a critical role in subterranean food webs. With escalating threats to subterranean ecosystems, identifying the most effective measures to protect subterranean‐roosting bats is critical. We conducted a meta‐analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation and management interventions for subterranean‐roosting bats. We used network analyses to determine to what extent interventions for bats overlap those used for other subterranean taxa. We conducted our analyses with data extracted from 345 papers recommending a total of 910 conservation interventions. Gating of roost entrances was applied to preserve bat populations in 21 studies, but its effectiveness was unclear. Habitat restoration and disturbance reduction positively affected bat populations and bat behavior, respectively, in ≤4 studies. Decontamination was assessed in 2 studies and positively affected bat populations, particularly in studies focused on reducing fungal spores associated with white‐nose syndrome in North America. Monitoring of bat populations as an effective conservation strategy was unclear and infrequently tested. Only 4% of bat studies simultaneously considered other subterranean organisms. However, effective interventions for bat conservation had similarities with all other organisms. If other subterranean organisms are considered when applying interventions to conserve bats, they might also benefit.
TXNDC12 knockdown promotes ferroptosis by modulating SLC7A11 expression in glioma
Authors: Yu Hao , Zhu Kai , Wang Minjie , Jiang Xiaobing
Published: July 2023

Ferroptosis is an iron‐dependent cell death process mainly triggered by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. Thioredoxin domain protein 12 (TXNDC12) promotes the development of some tumors; however, its function in tumor ferroptosis remains unclear. In this study, we found that knockdown of TXNDC12 promoted erastin‐induced increase in ROS, lipid peroxidation, and Fe2+ levels, and decreased glutathione content. TXNDC12 is involved in ferroptosis by regulating SLC7A11. Further studies showed that TXNDC12 knockdown promoted an erastin‐induced decrease in glioma cell viability. Overall, TXNDC12 played a significant role in ferroptosis by modulating SLC7A11 expression. Thus, TXNDC12 and ferroptosis may provide new targets for the treatment of gliomas.
Tricuspid cleft or tetracuspid valve? Usefulness of three‐dimensional echocardiogram in the assessment of isolated tricuspid regurgitation in pediatrics
Authors: Tania Tamayo , Fabián Merchan , Abraham González , David Salazar , Liborio Solano , Julio Erdmenger
Published: July 2023

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in children may be secondary to congenital anomalies of the tricuspid valve complex which is composed by annulus, leaflets, commissures, chordae tendineae, and papillary muscles. The most common congenital cause is Ebstein's anomaly; however, there are less frequent causes such as abnormal number of tricuspid leaflets, tricuspid cleft, leaflet prolapse, double orifice tricuspid valve, and congenital tricuspid valve dysplasia. Identifying the precise cause is important to plan an appropriate repair surgery. In this article, the case of a 4‐year‐old patient with a tetracuspid valve with significant tricuspid regurgitation is presented and the morphological analysis was made by two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) transthoracic echocardiography. The morphological differences between a tetracuspid valve and a cleft of the anterior leaflet tricuspid valve are exposed. 3D echocardiographic evaluation of the tricuspid valve allowed a better understanding of the tricuspid valve anatomy, which includes evaluation of the tricuspid annulus, leaflets, commissures, and subvalvular apparatus. Recognizing the accurate cause of isolated tricuspid regurgitation allows better planning of the surgical technique.
Identification of drug resistance in a validated cohort of incident epilepsy patients in the Danish National Patient Register
Authors: Bølling‐Ladegaard Eva , Dreier Julie W. , Christensen Jakob
Published: July 2023

Objective

The main purposes of this study were to validate the epilepsy diagnosis in incident epilepsy cases in the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR), which contains information on nearly 9 000 000 individuals, and to identify persons in the validated cohort who fulfilled the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) criteria for drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE).

Methods

We reviewed a random sample of medical records from all individuals registered with a first diagnosis of epilepsy (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision [ICD‐10]: G40) or seizures (ICD‐10: G41, R56, or F445) in the Central Denmark Region from 2010 to 2019. In persons with a validated incident epilepsy diagnosis, we determined the proportion with DRE at the latest contact. We performed logistic regression analyses to identify clinical factors that correlated with risk of DRE.

Results

Of 20 723 persons with a first diagnosis of epilepsy (n = 11 812) or seizures (n = 8911), we reviewed the medical records of n = 1067 with incident epilepsy and n = 610 with incident seizures. Among those with a register diagnosis of epilepsy, the diagnosis was confirmed in 838 cases (45% females, mean age at onset = 42.4 years), providing a positive predictive value (PPV) of 79% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 76%–81%). The PPV of focal epilepsy was 86% (95% CI = 82%–89%), and the PPV of generalized epilepsy was 71% (95% CI = 61%–80%). Of 740 patients with confirmed incident epilepsy and ≥1 year of follow‐up, 103 (14%) fulfilled the definition of DRE, 476 (64%) were drug responsive, and 161 (22%) had undefined responsiveness. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, early age at epilepsy onset, cognitive impairment, and a history of status epilepticus were associated with DRE.

Significance

In the DNPR, we found a PPV of the epilepsy diagnosis of 79%. Among persons with confirmed epilepsy, 14% fulfilled ILAE criteria for DRE. Early age at epilepsy onset, cognitive impairment, and a history of status epilepticus were independently associated with drug resistance.
Embryonic development of natural annual killifish populations of the genus Austrolebias: Evolutionary parallelism and the role of environment
Authors: Polačik Matej , García Daniel , Arezo Maria J. , Papa Nicolas , Schlueb Hellen , Blanco Daniel , Podrabsky Jason E. , Vrtílek Milan
Published: July 2023

Repeated, independent emergence of the same trait within different phylogenetic lineages is termed parallel evolution. It typically occurs as a result of similar selective pressures. Annual killifish have adapted to survive in the extreme habitat of temporary pools on three continents and present an especially amenable system for studying fundamental principles of evolutionary parallelism. When the pools dry, annual killifish embryos survive through the dry phase in the bottom substrate in a stage of dormancy—a diapause. The diapause is a complex set of three different developmental stages, none of which is obligate, thus leading to a multitude of potential developmental trajectories. While the intricacy of the killifishes' embryonic development has been thoroughly studied in the laboratory, information on their natural development is virtually absent. We hypothesised that the natural development of annual killifishes is largely synchronised and governed by ambient conditions as shown in the lineage of the African genus Nothobranchius.

We sampled wild embryo banks of the South American genus Austrolebias, which evolved its diapause independently of the African lineage. We sampled during two consecutive dry seasons, using both longitudinal and snapshot monitoring, and conducted transplant experiments to determine the extent of the evolutionary parallelism and role of the environment in Austrolebias spp. embryo development.

Main habitat phases were characterised by largely synchronised embryo banks. Different inter‐seasonal or local environmental conditions were reflected in a different developmental profile of the embryo banks, suggesting a high degree of environmental control.

We found striking similarity in the habitat phase–embryo stage associations between the two lineages. The diapause in the two annual killifish lineages represents a unique example of evolutionary parallelism, with the analogy manifested in very close detail. We highlight the similarity of the selective forces in the two genera despite the different geographic origins, climate zones and reversed seasonality. The repeatedly occurring strict association of the same developmental stages with the same habitat conditions suggests a limited array of developmental settings that can be applied to cope with the given environmental challenges.
Exceptional lower Cambrian fossils from a long‐lost locality in Vermont, USA
Authors: Pari Giovanni , Briggs Derek E.G. , Gaines Robert R. , Roach Brian T. , Webster Mark
Published: July 2023

Recent excavations at the site of Vermont's historically important Parker Quarry, long considered worked out where fossils were concerned, have yielded not only spectacular lower Cambrian trilobites but also soft‐bodied animals including the early chordate Emmonsaspis cambrensis and a new multi‐segmented bivalved arthropod Vermontcaris montcalmi. The first radiodont specimen from the locality indicates the presence of one of these apex predators more than 30‐cm long. New discoveries from this Burgess Shale‐type deposit add to our knowledge of the geographical diversity of animals that evolved during the Cambrian explosion.
Exploring the sources of cervical cancer screening self‐efficacy among rural females: A qualitative study
Authors: Zhang Mengyue , Sit Janet W. H. , Wang Tingxuan , Chan Carmen W. H.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Evidence showed self‐efficacy was relevant to rural females' cervical cancer screening behaviour. However, little is known about sources of self‐efficacy in cervical cancer screening among rural females. This study aimed to explore sources of self‐efficacy in cervical cancer screening among rural females.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Both users and providers of cervical cancer screening services in rural areas of China were recruited through maximum variation sampling.

Methods

Individual semi‐structured interviews through telephone calls were conducted. Data were analysed via six main stages of the framework method, with the social cognitive theory as a reference.

Results

Four main sources were identified, including personal screening experience, hearing about other women's screening experiences, professional health education and consultation, and emotional status. Personal screening experience included enactive mastery of completing the screening behaviour and cognitive mastery of internalisation of the screening. Only the experience of completing cervical cancer screening behaviour was not strong enough to improve self‐efficacy. Cognitive mastery showed more critical influence.

Conclusion

These four sources of rural females' cervical cancer screening self‐efficacy matched with the major sources of self‐efficacy of the social cognitive theory. Cognition was critical to influencing the screening self‐efficacy. Intervention strategies aimed at enhancing rural females' cervical cancer screening self‐efficacy can be developed from these four major sources.

Public Contribution

A registered nurse with rich experience in cervical cancer‐related research and qualitative study was the interviewer of this study. Rural females and cervical cancer screening services providers (healthcare professionals and village staff) were recruited as interviewees. The interview guides were developed by the research team and evaluated by an expert panel including two nurse leaders of gynaecological cancer, one doctor specialised in cervical cancer, and one medical director in a local rural hospital.
Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio as new possible minor criteria for diagnosis of polycythemia vera
Authors: Kim Min Jung , Kwon Seong Soon , Ji Young Sok , Lee Min‐Young , Kim Kyoung Ha , Lee Namsu , Park Sung Kyu , Won Jong‐Ho , Yoon Seug Yun
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of polycythemia vera (PV) is important. The presence of JAK2 mutations is important in the diagnosis of PV, and serum levels of erythropoietin (EPO) also play a supporting role. However, serum EPO levels show some limitations. The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are a readily available marker of inflammation. Thus, we examined whether NLR & PLR might diagnose PV in erythrocytosis patients. We compared NLR & PLR and EPO diagnostic values.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed clinical and laboratory data from two referral hospitals. Two hundred and eighty‐five patients with erythrocytosis who underwent a test for the JAK2 mutation were included. It wac classified as the PV group and the secondary polycythemia (SP) group.

Results

The median NLR & PLR in the PV group (n = 70) was significantly higher than that in the SP group (n = 170) (NLR: 6.04 vs. 1.77, PLR: 283.18 vs. 101.56, respectively, p < 0.001). In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve of NLR & PLR was significantly higher than that of serum EPO (NLR vs EPO: 0.921 vs. 0.827, p = 0.003; PLR vs EPO: 0.917 vs 0.827, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

In conclusion, NLR & PLR were higher in PV than in SP and showed better diagnostic value than serum EPO level, highlighting their potential as minor diagnostic criteria in patients with PV.
Effect of endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy on surgical site wound infection and hospital stay in patients with acute appendicitis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yin , Ma Lan , Lu Xingjun , Yan Xiuxia
Published: July 2023

In this meta‐analysis, we comprehensively evaluated the effect of endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy (ERAT) on surgical site infections and other perioperative outcomes in patients with acute appendicitis. Relevant studies on ERAT for acute appendicitis were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang Data, from database inception to June 2023. Statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4. Heterogeneity among the included studies was analysed, and odds ratios (ORs) or standardised mean differences (SMDs), along with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were calculated. In total, 24 studies involving 1937 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. ERAT reduced the surgical duration (SMD: −1.70, 95% CI: −2.24 to −1.16, p < 0.001) and length of hospital stay (SMD: −2.09, 95% CI: −2.64 to −1.53, p < 0.001) significantly more than open appendectomy (OA) did. Furthermore, ERAT decreased the incidence of surgical site wound infections (OR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.13–0.37, p < 0.001) and postoperative complications (OR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.11–0.21, p < 0.001) more than OA did. This study demonstrated that ERAT is a safe and effective endoscopic treatment modality for acute appendicitis, contributing to a significant reduction in the surgical duration, length of hospital stay, and incidence of surgical site wound infections and postoperative complications. Hence, ERAT has clinical significance and the potential for further application and dissemination.
Exploring the similarities and differences amongst service users with and without learning disabilities attending Saint Marys Sexual Assault Referral Centre
Authors: Majeed‐Ariss Rabiya , Mattison Michelle , Rodriguez Pablo M. , White Catherine
Published: July 2023

Background

People with learning disabilities are over‐represented amongst Sexual Assault Referral Centre service users. This work aims to explore the similarities and differences between service users with and without learning disabilities.

Method

Medical notes of 52 service users likely to have a learning disability were compared with 52 service users not likely to have a learning disability (according to the Learning Disability Screening Questionnaire); all of whom attended Saint Marys SARC for a forensic medical examination during a 12‐month period.

Results

Significant associations were found between the likelihood of learning disability and relationship to perpetrator; location of assault; alcohol use; time taken to present to SARC; domestic violence; self‐harm; suicide attempts and mental health service involvement.

Conclusions

People with learning disabilities in the sexually assaulted population are more likely to present with intersecting vulnerabilities emphasising the need for timely, accessible and appropriate patient‐centred care for this group.
Infant and preschool attachment, continuity and relationship to caregiving sensitivity: findings from a new population‐based Australian cohort
Authors: McIntosh Jennifer E. , Opie Jessica , Greenwood Christopher J. , Booth Anna , Tan Evelyn , Painter Felicity , Messer Mariel , Macdonald Jacqui A. , Letcher Primrose , Olsson Craig A. ,   ATPG3 MAC Lab and Consortium
Published: July 2023

Background

Here, we report new prevalence and temporal stability data for child attachment and parental caregiving behaviour, from infancy (1 year) to preschool (4 years).

Methods

Attachment (SSP) and caregiving data (MBQS) were from observations of parents and their infants and preschoolers, who represent the third generation of participants within an Australian longitudinal cohort.

Results

At 1 year (n = 314 dyads) and at 4 years (n = 368 dyads), proportions assessed secure were 59% and 71%, respectively. Proportions assessed avoidant were 15% and 11%; ambivalent 9% and 6%, and disorganised 17% and 12%, at 1 and 4 years. Continuity of attachment pattern was highest for the infant secure group. Of dyads initially classified disorganised in infancy, 36% remained so at the preschool assessment. Attachment and caregiving continuities across the infancy–preschool period were highest for the stable secure attachment group and lowest for the stable insecure attachment group. Loss of secure attachment to mother by age 4 years correlated with decreased maternal caregiving sensitivity, and acquisition of secure status by age 4 was associated with increased maternal sensitivity. We found no difference in caregiving sensitivity scores for mothers and fathers for female and male preschool children.

Conclusions

The contemporary infant and preschool attachment proportions we report here closely mirror the patterns of those reported in prior decades, with an inclination towards secure base relationships. Our findings alert practitioners anew to the responsiveness of early attachment status to change in caregiving responsiveness and support ongoing investment in early identification of disorganised attachment.
Philosophy as a way of life, spiritual exercises, and palliative care
Authors: Sharpe Matt , Nolan Robert P.
Published: July 2023

This paper proposes that resources from philosophy as a way of life (PWL), in particular the prescription of targeted ‘spiritual exercises’ (Hadot) can be used in palliative counselling, addressing Alexandrova's critique that philosophy as ‘big picture’ theories alone are insufficient. Part I shows how the disciplines of philosophy and medicine for a long time intersected, in particular in competing prescriptive notions of ‘regimen’ or ‘way of life’ (diaitês) in the ancient world, in which philosophy was considered widely as PWL. Part II applies PWL work on the ancient philosophical spiritual exercises to contemporary clinical settings. We show how six ancient spiritual exercises respond to patients' needs as persons, whose quality of life is importantly shaped by their beliefs and sense‐making, as they face profound existential or spiritual challenges, as well as forms of physical disability and diminished capabilities which they may never have previously countenanced.
Deep transfer learning‐based approach for detection of cracks on eggs
Authors: Botta Bhavya , Datta Ashis Kumar
Published: July 2023

Eggs are the most nutrient‐rich and protein‐dense food that is affordable and consumed by most of the population. But cracks on the eggshells can pave the way for microbial contamination of the eggs posing threat to the health of the consumers. Therefore, it is crucial for the egg industries to check for the quality of eggs before reaching consumers to avoid outbreaks. Automatic visual inspection is one of the techniques that has gained popularity in the field of eggshell crack identification because of the advancements in hardware and deep learning. However, due to the limited training data, classifying eggs using eggshell crack images is challenging. Therefore, deep transfer learning was employed in this study using a pre‐trained DenseNet121 architecture in three ways—fine‐tuning (FT), feature extraction, and training deep features on machine learning classifiers. The results revealed that the FT technique performed best among the three approaches with 98.38% accuracy.

Practical Applications

Deep transfer learning‐based techniques in food quality assessments are seeing a rise in the food industry. Eggshell crack detection is one of the challenges that can be addressed using the transfer learning approach. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different transfer learning approaches in classifying the image patches extracted from egg images and determine the most effective technique to identify cracks on eggs, despite the difficulty of the classification task using a small data set of egg images. These results can promote the application of transfer learning in non‐destructive egg quality evaluation in the egg processing industries.
Barriers to optimal breastfeeding of medically complex children in the UK paediatric setting: a mixed methods survey of healthcare professionals
Authors: Hookway Lyndsey , Brown Amy
Published: July 2023

Background

Breastfeeding is indisputably significant for infants and children, as well as their mothers. However, when breastfed children are admitted to the paediatric ward, they may experience breastfeeding modification due to clinical challenges, lack of staff training and institutional barriers. Although previous research has identified multiple barriers to optimal feeding within the maternity, neonatal and community settings, we know less about the barriers that exist in paediatrics. Paediatric healthcare staff attitudes, training and awareness as well as ward culture are likely to have an impact on the experiences of families but are relatively unresearched in the paediatric setting, especially with regard to the multidisciplinary nature of clinical paediatric care. The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes, awareness and perceived barriers to effective breastfeeding support provision, as well as healthcare professional perception of barriers for families.

Methods

This was a mixed methods study utilising a questionnaire which was completed by 409 healthcare professionals who identified as working within the paediatric setting. It included responses from paediatricians of all training grades, nurses, healthcare assistants and allied health professionals. Qualitative data from professionals were analysed to develop themes around professional and perceived parent barriers to optimal breastfeeding.

Results

This study explored the barriers experienced by staff, as well as professionals' perception of parent barriers. These included lack of knowledge of how to help, a default formula culture, the pressure of maintaining strict fluid balance and breastfeeding being a low priority in the face of critical illness. Of the paediatric departments represented by this sample of healthcare professionals, most had a relatively poor culture of supporting breastfeeding, with multiple institutional barriers identified. Most professionals felt that there was not enough support for breastfeeding families on an average shift, and a large proportion identified as being one of just a few breastfeeding advocates on their ward.

Conclusion

In this relatively motivated and experienced sample of healthcare professionals, there were many identified barriers to optimal breastfeeding which could potentially be addressed by training that is carefully nuanced for the paediatric population. Ensuring that paediatric multidisciplinary healthcare professionals have sufficient skills and knowledge would address the identified challenge of poor awareness of breastfeeding and of how to overcome clinical lactation obstacles. Further improvements at policy level need to address the systemic lack of resourcing in paediatrics, as well as the lack of embedded breastfeeding‐friendly organisational structures.
The Credit‐Card‐Services Augmented Divisia Monetary Aggregates*
Authors: BARNETT WILLIAM A. , CHAUVET MARCELLE , LEIVA‐LEON DANILO , SU LITING
Published: July 2023

While credit cards provide transaction services, they have never been included in measures of money supply. We derive the theory to measure the joint services of credit cards and money and propose two measures of their joint services: one based on microeconomic structural aggregation theory, providing an aggregated variable within the macroeconomy; the other a credit‐card‐extended aggregate, optimized as an indicator to capture the contributions of monetary and credit card as nowcasting indicator of nominal GDP. The inclusion of the new aggregates yields substantially more accurate nowcasts of nominal GDP, illustrating the usefulness of the information contained in credit cards.
(Out)Caste language ideologies: Intersectional raciolinguistic stigma and assimilation from denotified tribal students' perspectives in rural India
Authors: Chandras Jessica
Published: July 2023

In India, where elementary education is a fundamental right, significant barriers stall the attainment of educational equity through linguistic inclusivity. This article explores student identities by examining intersections of language, caste, race, and socioeconomic class to make visible complexities of privilege, discrimination, and connections between social structure, identity, and language in education. From qualitative ethnographic research with a settled nomadic Tribal community in rural India, this article highlights contradictions between recent mother tongue language education policies and experiences of social disparities and stigma for Banjara Tribal youth, who speak a different mother tongue language than the language of education. I draw together theories of intersectionality and raciolinguistics to show how co‐naturalized lines of language and identity are navigated through language ideologies to shift positions of Banjara student identities. Through learning Marathi, the regional lingua franca, students transform their marginalized sociolinguistic positions into mainstream aspirants of academic and social success.