bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application Analysis of Credit Scoring of Financial Institutions Based on Machine Learning Model
Authors: Wu Yi , Pan Yuwen
Published: October 2021

Credit score is the basis for financial institutions to make credit decisions. With the development of science and technology, big data technology has penetrated into the financial field, and personal credit investigation has entered a new era. Personal credit evaluation based on big data is one of the hot research topics. This paper mainly completes three works. Firstly, according to the application scenario of credit evaluation of personal credit data, the experimental dataset is cleaned, the discrete data is one‐HOT coded, and the data are standardized. Due to the high dimension of personal credit data, the pdC‐RF algorithm is adopted in this paper to optimize the correlation of data features and reduce the 145‐dimensional data to 22‐dimensional data. On this basis, WOE coding was carried out on the dataset, which was applied to random forest, support vector machine, and logistic regression models, and the performance was compared. It is found that logistic regression is more suitable for the personal credit evaluation model based on Lending Club dataset. Finally, based on the logistic regression model with the best parameters, the user samples are graded and the final score card is output.
Seroprevalence, Associated Factors, and Fetomaternal Outcome in Pregnant Women That Tested Positive to Hepatitis E Antibodies in Nigeria
Authors: Okwara Valentine Chimezie , Mbachu Ikechukwu Innocent , Ndububa Victor Ikechukwu , Okpara Henry Chima , Mbachu Chioma Pauline
Published: October 2021

Background. Hepatitis E virus infection is an emerging disease with varied courses in pregnancy. There is a dearth of statistics among pregnant women. Aim. To evaluate the prevalence, associated factors, and pregnancy outcome in women that tested positive for hepatitis E virus (HEV) antibodies in pregnancy. Research Methods. This was a cross-sectional study conducted among pregnant women at a teaching hospital in Nigeria. Relevant information was collected using a structured questionnaire. Blood was collected from each of the participants, and the serum was used to determine the presence of hepatitis E immunoglobulin M (IgM) and G (IgG). The data were analysed using SPSS version 23. Associations between variables were determined at a

p

value of <0.05. Results. A total of 200 pregnant women participated in this study. The prevalence of HEV infection among pregnant women was 28.00% (56/200). The mean age was 30.11 ± 5.88. Hepatitis E infection was significantly associated with age (

p

value = 0.028), method of faecal disposal (

p

value = 0.043), and source of drinking water (

p

value = 0.039). A total of 9/200 (4.50%) stillbirths were recorded with 3/9 (33.33%) in women that tested positive for HEV antibodies. About 4/200(2.00%) miscarriages were recorded, and 2/4 (50.00%) were in women that tested positive for HEV antibodies. Hepatitis E infection was not significantly associated with perinatal outcome (

p

value = 0.45). Only 1/56 (0.50%) maternal death was recorded among women that tested positive to hepatitis E, and none was recorded among those that tested negative to hepatitis E antibodies. Conclusion. There was a significant statistical association between HEV infection and age, method of faecal disposal, and source of drinking water. This underscores the importance of the provision of clean water and safe faecal disposal. Hepatitis E virus infection did not significantly affect the foetal and maternal outcomes.
Analysis of Multiple Human Tumor Cases Reveals the Carcinogenic Effects of PKP3
Authors: Ruan Shujie , Shi Jingping , Wang Ming , Zhu Zhechen
Published: October 2021

Plakophilins (PKPs) act as a key regulator of different signaling programs and control a variety of cellular processes ranging from transcription, protein synthesis, growth, proliferation, and tumor development. The function and possible mechanism of PKP3 in ovarian cancer (OC) remain unknown. It is extremely important to investigate the expression and prognostic values of PKP3, as well as their possible mechanisms, and immune infiltration in OC. Therefore, in this paper we explored the potential oncogenic role of PKP3 in 33 tumors based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. The result outcomes showed that PKP3 is highly expressed in most cancers, and the expression level and prognosis of PKP3 showed little significance in cancer patients. Moreover, oncologists have found that members of the plakophilin family have different degrees of abnormality in ovarian cancer. PKP3 played a key part in carcinogenesis and aggressiveness of OC as well as malignant biological activity and can be used as a biomarker for early diagnosis and prognosis evaluation in OC.
AGVs Route Planning Based on Region-Segmentation Dynamic Programming in Smart Road Network Systems
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Chen Juan , Guo Qing
Published: October 2021

In this paper, a route-planning approach is proposed based on the region-segmentation Dynamic Programming (DP) algorithm for Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) in large Smart Road Network Systems (SRNSs) to deal with the problem of low route computation efficiency of the classical DP algorithm. We introduced an improved Markov Decision Process (MDP) to describe SRNSs, in which the SRNSs are divided into several regions according to the AGVs’ start nodes and their goal nodes to improve the route-planning efficiency. Moreover, the route with the minimum number of turns is selected to reduce the system running time and energy cost in the following way: first, all the equidistant shortest routes are acquired from the AGVs’ start nodes to their goal nodes using the improved DP algorithm; then, the routes are screened by calculating the angular deviation between all feasible routes and AGVs’ initial directions, and the route with the fewest number of turns is taken as the shortest-time route. The simulation results verified that the proposed method can effectively solve the route-planning problem of AGVs in current SRNSs.
Assessment of Drug Interactions with Online Electronic Checkers in Multi-Pathological Patients
Authors: Roca Bernardino , Roca Manuel
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Multi-pathological patients are at high risk of drug interactions and side effects. We aimed to assess the usefulness of 3 online drug interaction checkers. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, carried out in the Medicine Department of Hospital General of Castellon, Spain, in February 2020, we assessed drug interaction detection with 3 online electronic checkers, Drugs.com, Lexicomp®, and Medscape, and compared results obtained with the 3 tools. From every hospitalized patient, we obtained the list of drugs he or she had been taking until admission. Bivariable tests were used for analysis. p values <0.05 were considered significant. Results: We included data from 134 patients; 68 (51%) were male; median (and interquartile range) of their age was 82 (76–88) years. A total of 1,082 substance drugs were entered in the checkers. The number of highest grade interactions found with every program was Drugs.com 85, Lexicomp® 33, and Medscape 67. Positive correlations were found between age and number of drug substances prescribed (p = 0.009) and between number of drug substances prescribed and interactions found with any of the 3 checkers (p < 0.001 in all 3 cases). Regarding highest grade interactions, agreement among all 3 checkers was poor. Conclusions: The 3 online checkers we assessed found a large number of interactions. The 3 programs gave very discrepant results. Impact on Practice Statements: The analyzed programs, Drugs.com, Lexicomp®, and Medscape Interactions, found a large number of drug interactions in the studied patients. The 3 programs gave very discrepant results among them.
A Closer Look at Bleach Baths: Evidence, Tub Size, and Instructions
Authors: Collier Erin , Sangar Sophia , Shen Amy , Davis Jeremy
Published: October 2021

Dilute sodium hypochlorite (bleach) baths have been used in routine care for many dermatologic conditions, namely atopic dermatitis. The benefits of bleach baths in reducing bacterial carriage have been well documented; however, the instructions often require subjective interpretation of bathtub size and may result in varying concentrations of bleach. Herein, we review the evidence for use of bleach baths and provide a method for ensuring that proper bleach concentrations are achieved.
Evidence Mapping of Proton Therapy, Heavy Ion Therapy, and Helical Tomotherapy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Li Muyang , Dou Wenshan , Lin Yimin , Li Qianqian , Xu Huimei , Zhang Dekui
Published: October 2021

Purpose: This study aimed to systematically present application situation and therapeutic effect of proton therapy (PT), heavy ion therapy, and helical tomotherapy (TOMO) for gastric cancer (GC), and to find gaps of existing studies. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Chinese Biological Medical Database were searched. Tables, bubble plot, and heat map were conducted to display results. Results: Fourteen studies were included. About PT, 7 single-arm studies showed median overall survival (OS) within 2–66 months and 1 study reported 40% of patients happened moderate degree of radiation gastritis. About TOMO, 1 study reported longer median OS and progression-free survival, lower occurrence of Grade III toxicity, and late toxicity compared to 3D-CRT, while another study remained neutral. About heavy ion therapy, there was no clinical study was found. Conclusions: Existing studies presented good clinic treatment effect about PT and TOMO for GC, and furthermore clinical studies are needed.
Mother’s Bed Incline and Desaturation Episodes in Healthy Term Newborns during Early Skin-to-Skin Contact: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rodríguez-López Jesús , De la Cruz Bértolo Javier , García-Lara Nadia Raquel , Núñez Vecino José Luis , Soriano-Ramos María , Asla Elorriaga Izaskun , Román Echevarría Lourdes , Pellicer Adelina , Marín Huarte Natalia , Vento Máximo , Parra-Llorca Anna , Cabañas Fernando , González Sánchez Raquel , García-Algar Óscar , Martín-Ancel Ana , Copons Fernández Cristina , González Carrasco Ersilia , Beato Maite , Pallás-Alonso Carmen Rosa ,   the Maternal and Child Health and Development Research Network of Spain (SAMID Network)
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Early skin-to-skin contact (ESSC) is associated with rare, sudden, unexpected postnatal collapse episodes. Placing the newborn in ESSC closer to an upright position may reduce the risk of airway obstruction and improve respiratory mechanics. This study assessed whether a greater inclination of the mother’s bed during ESSC would reduce the proportion of healthy term newborns (HTNs) who experienced episodes of pulse oximeter saturation (SpO2) <91%. Methods: We conducted a multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing the effect of the mother’s bed incline, 45° versus 15°, on desaturation in HTNs during ESSC. Before delivery on 1,271 dyads, randomization was conducted, and stringent criteria to select healthy mothers and term newborns were monitored until after birth. Preductal SpO2 was continuously monitored between 10 min and 2 h after birth. The primary outcome was the occurrence of at least one episode of SpO2 <91%. Results: 254 (20%) mother-infant dyads were eligible for analysis (45°, n = 126; 15°, n = 128). Overall, 57% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 51%–63%) of newborns showed episodes of SpO2 <91%. The proportion of infants with SpO2 <91% episodes was 52% in 45° and 62% in 15° (relative risk: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.6–1.07). Conclusions: We did not show that a high mother bed inclination during ESSC led to significantly fewer HTNs who experienced episodes of SpO2 <91%. Desaturation episodes from 10 min to 2 h after birth occurred in more than half of HTNs.
Identification of Preoperative Risk Factors for Poor Survival in Patients with Resectable Pancreatic Cancer Treated with Upfront Surgery
Authors: Kondo Naru , Uemura Kenichiro , Sumiyoshi Tatsuaki , Okada Kenjiro , Seo Shingo , Otsuka Hiroyuki , Kawano Reo , Murakami Yoshiaki , Takahashi Shinya
Published: October 2021

Introduction: The aim of this study was to identify preoperative risk factors for poor survival in patients with resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) treated with upfront surgery. Methods: Medical records of 268 patients with resectable PDAC defined by resectability status who underwent upfront surgery were reviewed retrospectively. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify preoperative risk factors for recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Moreover, a binary logistic regression model was built to determine preoperative independent risk factors of 2- and 3-year recurrence and survival. Results: Multivariate analyses identified CA19-9 (≥100 U/mL, p < 0.001) as an independent risk factor for poor RFS, and worse performance status (1 or 2, p = 0.03), platelet:lymphocyte ratio (<150, p = 0.04), and preoperative CA19-9 (≥100 U/mL, p < 0.001) as independent risk factors for poor OS. Moreover, preoperative CA19-9 (≥100 U/mL) was the only independent risk factor identified for 2- and 3-year recurrence and survival. Discussion/Conclusion: Preoperative CA19-9 (≥100 U/mL) was the most reliable preoperative predictive factor for poor survival in resectable PDAC treated with upfront surgery. These findings warrant further clinical trials investigating efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy targeting the subset of patients with resectable PDAC who have elevated preoperative CA19-9, namely, those with high risk of poor prognosis.
Repository Corticotropin in Treating de novo C3 Glomerulonephritis after Transplantation
Authors: Naseer Muhammad Saad , Singh Ayush , Singh Neeraj
Published: October 2021

Introduction: De novo C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN) after transplant is uncommon. Although eculizumab has been used successfully in several cases, the response is heterogeneous, and treatment strategies remain undefined. The use of repository corticotropin in C3GN has not been described in the literature. Case Report: A 48-year-old African American male with kidney transplantation secondary to presumed diabetic nephropathy presented 6 years after transplant with lower extremity edema and nephrotic range proteinuria. His urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) was 8.2 g/g. Renal allograft biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of C3GN. He was treated with eculizumab (Solaris®) 900 mg IV once weekly for 4 weeks and repository corticotropin (H.P. Acthar® gel) 80 units SQ twice weekly for 6 months with a near-complete resolution of proteinuria within 3 months of the treatment. The patient presented again 6 months after completing the therapy with a recurrence of proteinuria, which peaked at 11.6 g/g of UPCR. Repeat kidney allograft biopsy was consistent with C3GN. He was started on repository corticotropin 80 units SQ twice weekly, which resulted in a reduction of proteinuria to >50% within 2 months of therapy. When eculizumab 900 mg IV weekly for 4 weeks was added with repository corticotropin, the proteinuria resolved within 10 weeks of treatment. The patient was maintained on monotherapy of repository corticotropin and has been in complete remission of proteinuria for more than a year until his last follow-up. Conclusion: This is the first case report describing the role of repository corticotropin as an effective therapy in reducing proteinuria and maintaining patients with C3GN in proteinuria remission.
A vegetação como acervo botânico no Parque do Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Farah Ivete Mello Calil
Published: October 2021

Este artigo trata dos aspectos botânicos relacionados ao projeto paisagístico, destacando a vegetação como elemento relevante na concepção de paisagens urbanas. O ensaio exploratório é desenvolvido a partir do estudo de uma das mais importantes áreas de lazer do Rio de Janeiro – o Parque do Flamengo. O projeto paisagístico é de autoria de Roberto Burle Marx, que se destacou pelo uso inovador da vegetação, pautado pelos estudos da botânica e pelo assessoramento de profissionais da área. A análise é feita a partir da reflexão sobre quatro pontos: a diversidade vegetal característica do projeto; o uso de vegetação inédita em áreas urbanas; a presença de espécies em risco de extinção; e a utilização de plantas singulares na paisagem. Nesse último ponto, destaca-se a palmeira corifa (Corypha umbraculifera) e suas características peculiares. O artigo aponta para o valor como acervo botânico da vegetação de projetos paisagísticos em áreas urbanas e ressalta a necessidade de implementação de estudos científicos para maior conhecimento do comportamento das espécies vegetais nessas áreas, ampliando os subsídios para o uso dessa relevante ferramenta de projeto.
Morphology and phylogeny of Teratoramularia rumicis—a new foliar pathogen of Rumex crispus from India and diversity of Ramularioid complex on Rumex spp.
Authors: VERMA SANJEET KUMAR , KUSHWAHA PRAKASH , YADAV SANJAY , Singh Raghvendra
Published: October 2021

Teratoramularia rumicis, a new hyaline anamorphic foliicolous hyphomycetous fungus was discovered on living leaves of medicinally important plant Rumex crispus (Polygonaceae) is described and illustrated. It is an obligate foliar pathogen that causes silvery white foliar disease. It is the first report of Teratoramularia from India. This species is compared with closely related species of Teratoramularia and species of Ramularioid complex along with dematiaceous cercosporoid forms reported on the same host genus and family. The phylogeny of this species has been inferred from combined 28S nrRNA gene (LSU) and internal transcribed spacer regions and intervening 5.8S nrRNA gene (ITS) of the nrDNA operon.
A new species of Werauhia (Bromeliaceae, Tillandsioideae) from the highlands of southern Central America
Authors: CASCANTE-MARÍN ALFREDO , MORALES J. FRANCISCO
Published: October 2021

The authors describe and illustrate a new species of Tillandsioid epiphytic bromeliad, Werauhia talamancana, from the mountains of southern Central America. This new species is related to W. brunei by its smooth, lustrous and distichous floral bracts (not secund) at anthesis but differs from the latter by its larger flowers and brown-maroon floral bracts (versus greenish). This new species belongs to section Werauhia and is part of a group of species with spicate simple inflorescences with relatively large floral bracts.
Epitaxial Growth of SrMnO3 Films on SrTiO3 Substrates by Off-Axis Angle Radio Frequency Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: He Rui , Kim Ma Ro , Tang Rui , Kim Sangmo , Bark Chung Wung
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTIn this study, high-quality SrMnO3 (001) film was grown on a SrTiO3(001) substrate using a 4 N purity target by 90° off-axis RF magnetron sputtering. In this study, the influence of the plasma center and surrounding positions on the growth
of the SrMnO3 film was investigated under different sputtering temperatures and working pressure conditions. The results revealed that the SrMnO3 film exhibited the best crystallinity at the sputtering center under a high working pressure (135 mTorr), high substrate temperature
(750 °C), and Ar to O ratio of 1:1. After investigating the relationship between the growth rate and the working pressure through the Alpha step, the film was grown at a lower sputtering rate of 2 nm/min. X-ray diffraction confirmed that the SrMnO3 film was epitaxially grown
on the SrTiO3 substrate with an orientation relationship of SrMnO3(001)//SrTiO3(001). The growth state of SrMnO3 on the crystal SrTiO3 substrate was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM); the results revealed that the surface
was smooth and compact. In addition, the atomic force microscopy results were consistent with the SEM result; the results revealed that the surface of the film was atomically flat, and the atomic level flatness was 0.906 nm. Furthermore, the contact angle measurement results revealed that
the film and substrate surface energy were almost similar and exhibited similar adhesion and internal stress. In addition, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed that the atomic composition ratio in the high-temperature sputtered SrMnO3 film was consistent with the
stoichiometric ratio of SrMnO3. The scope and results of this study will lay a foundation on the further research of the performance of SrMnO3 film.
Synthesis, Structures and Magnetic Properties of 1D Cu(II)-NIT Radical Complex
Authors: Zhang Cai-Wen , Zhang You-Juan , Chen Jing , Wang Qing-Lun
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTAn 1D Cu(II) complex, which formula is [Cu(hfac)2NITpPy]n (1) (NITpPy = 2-(4-pyridyl)-4,4,5,5-tetra-methylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide, hfac = hexafluoroacetylacetonate) has been synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction.
The complex 1 crystallizes in the triclinic pī space group. Two adjacent Cu(II) ions with different coordination modes are bridged by NITpPy to form a magnetic zig-zag chain. In the built chains, the Cu(II) ions located in the CuO4N2 coordination environment
and the >N–O–Cu(II)- O–N< hetero-spin clusters of the CuO6 units are alternately arranged, which lead to two different Cu-NITpPy magnetic interactions. The fit parameters (J1 = −3.56 cm−1 and J2
= 0.46 cm−1) indicate an antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic interactions in the complex 1.
Preparation of Targeted Nano-Microbubble Contrast Agent and Its Application in the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wei Li , Liang Qianhui , Zhou Wei , Han Haiyang , Mao Zuyi
Published: October 2021

The objective of this study was to explore the application value of microbubble contrast materials in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Firstly, ordinary nano-microbubbles and biotinylated nano-microbubbles were prepared by rotary evaporation method and mechanical vibration method.
Then, the biotinylated anti-six-transmembrane prostate epithelial antigen-1 (STQWK-1) antibody was connected with the previously prepared nano-microbubbles with the help of biotin-avidin method, so as to generate a nano-microbubble contrast agent targeting prostate PC3 cells. While the contrast
agent was characterized based on the immunofluorescence method, a microscope was applied to observe the in vitro targeting performance of targeted nano-microbubbles on PC3 cells. A prostate PC3 cell nude mouse transplanted tumor model was established, so that the contrast-enhanced ultrasound
(CEUS) effect of different contrast agents on transplanted tumor was compared, which were applied in CEUS examination of prostate cancer patients. The results showed that the targeted nano-microbubbles could display circular green fluorescence under the microscope, and the blank nano-microbubbles
had no display under the microscope. Both ultrasonic microbubbles were circular and evenly distributed. The in vitro targeting experiments indicated that targeted nano-bubbles could accumulate on the surface of prostate cancer PC3 cells, and tumor transplantation model proved that the
targeted contrast agent carrying STQWK-1 antibody had a strong development and enhancement effect. In the diagnosis of prostate cancer patients, the sensitivity (83.3% vs. 52%), specificity (66.7% vs. 36.3%), accuracy (75% vs. 47.2%), and other indicators of the diagnosis of targeted nano-bubbles
prepared showed marked advantages compared with routine trans-rectal US (TRUS) diagnosis. The contrast agent prepared in this study could be specifically targeted to prostate PC3 cells in vitro, which had the effect of development and enhancement and had a good diagnostic performance
in the diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Effect of Aging Treatment on Microstructure and Wear Properties of CoCrFeNiTiNbB1.25 High Entropy Alloys Coatings by Laser Cladding
Authors: Ding Lin , Wang Hongxin , Quan Xiumin
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTLaser cladding CoCrFeNiTiNbB1.25 high entropy alloys (HEAs) coatings on H13 steel was fabricated. The effect of aging treatment temperature on microstructure and wear resistance of the HEAS coatings was investigated. Results showed the phases of the HEAs
coatings were not changed as the aging treatment increased, the volume fraction of TiB phase was firstly increased, then reduced. The diffraction peak of fcc phase was firstly shifted to the right, and then shifted to the left. The HEAs coatings consisted of typical dendrite, interdendritic
eutectic and dispersed intermetallic compound after aging treatment, and the dendrite obviously was coarsened after aging treatment at 850 °C. Compared with HEAs coatings before aging treatment, the microhardness of the HEAs coatings was firstly increased as the aging treatment temperature
increased, then decreased, and the mass loss was opposite. The microhardness and mass loss was decreased by 4.3% and 11.9%, respectively for the aging treatment at 750 °C. The wear mechanism of the HEAs coatings before aging treatment was the abrasive wear, and was the abrasive wear and
adhesive wear after aging treatment.
Opioid Usage and Pain Control in Benign Oropharyngeal Surgery: An Observational Prospective Study
Authors: Stewart Matthew , Mastrolonardo Eric , Ghias Adeeba , Butkus Joann , Hobelmann Kealan , Zhan Tingting , Dang Sophia , Cognetti David , Rosen David , Boon Maurits , Huntley Colin
Published: October 2021

Objectives:

Little data is available on opioid usage in the adult population for benign oropharyngeal surgery. The objective here is to evaluate opioid prescribing patterns, opioid consumption, and patient pain patterns following benign oropharyngeal surgery, specifically tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy alone, and expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty.

Methods:

Patients aged ≥18 years old and received a tonsillectomy, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, or expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty between November 2019 and August 2020 were included. Patients were provided a survey which included a visual analog scale for recording their pain postoperatively and the amount of opioid they had remaining.

Results:

About 103 patients completed the post-operative questionnaire. Patients were prescribed 38 837 morphine milligram equivalents and used 28 644: approximately 26% went unused, which is the equivalent of 1346 5 mg oxycodone pills. Opioid consumption correlated with the initial dosage: patients consumed 12% more narcotic on average as the initial prescription went upwards by 50 morphine milligram equivalents. Obstructive sleep apnea, history of smoking, and being female predicted increased opioid usage in this cohort. Pain was reported the highest on postoperative day 1. A prescription of approximately 225 morphine milligram equivalents (150 mg oxycodone) was associated with decreased opioid use in this cohort. Larger initial prescriptions did not result in fewer requests for refills.

Conclusion:

A significant amount of opioid medication went unused in this study. A prescription of 225 morphine milligram equivalents (or 150 mg oxycodone) provided appropriate analgesia for the majority of patients. Larger prescriptions may result in increased opioid consumption and may not reduce the amount of refills. More study is needed to confirm these findings.
Assessing a Proposal for Updating the Marxist Theory of Dependency
Authors: Osorio Jaime
Published: October 2021

A recent proposal for updating of the Marxist theory of dependency requires abandoning the categories of superexploitation and unequal exchange and the theory of dependent capitalism. Examination of the limitations of this proposal highlights the misconceptions regarding these categories and the importance of recognizing dependent capitalism as a form of capitalism for an understanding of the state of the revolution in Latin America and the exceptional conditions that have made it possible for some economies to overcome underdevelopment.

Una propuesta reciente de renovación de la teoría marxista de la dependencia reclama abandonar las categorías superexplotación e intercambio desigual y la de capitalismo dependiente. Un examen de las limitaciones de esta propuesta destaca a los errores en la comprensión de esas categorías así como la relevancia de capitalismo dependiente como una forma de capitalismo para comprender la actualidad de la revolución en América Latina y las condiciones de excepción que han hecho posible superar el subdesarrollo por algunas economías.
Communal coping manifested in daily Life: A focus on gender
Authors: Helgeson Vicki S. , Naqvi Jeanean B. , Zajdel Melissa , Horner Fiona
Published: October 2021

Communal coping consists of a shared appraisal of a stressor and collaborative efforts to manage it. There has been a wealth of literature linking communal coping to relationship and health outcomes, but there is little research on the context in which communal coping occurs or how communal coping is manifested in daily life. The first and second study goals were to examine the implications of gender for the components of communal coping (shared appraisal, collaboration) and for potential manifestations of communal coping in daily life (e.g., shared meals). Our third study goal was to examine whether shared appraisal and collaboration in the context of diabetes generalized to another domain—household chore distribution—and whether these relations were moderated by gender. As an exploratory goal, we examined intersections of gender with race. Participants were 203 couples in which one person had been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Shared appraisal and collaboration were assessed with multiple methods. Results showed greater shared appraisal and collaboration when patients were male than when they were female. This finding extended to some, but not all, of the daily life behaviors. Actor–partner interdependence models showed that the relations of actor and partner shared appraisal to household labor depended on both role (patient, spouse) and gender; relations of actor and partner collaboration depended only on role. Findings were not moderated by race. These results highlight the need to consider gender in the context of communal coping.
Board Composition and Corporate Performance: X-raying the Nexus in Nigerian Banks
Authors: Herbert Wilson Ezi , Agwor ThankGod C.
Published: October 2021

We investigate the nexus between board composition and corporate performance of Nigerian banks listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) from 2010 to 2019. The contextual board characteristics of empirical interest include board size, financial knowledge of board members, frequency of board meetings, gender diversity and board independence. Corporate performance is measured by return on equity (ROE) and earnings per share (EPS). Our findings lead to the predictions that board size, financial nous of board members, gender diversity and board independence are important board characteristics that catalyse corporate performance, although the evidence of gender diversity and board independence is limited. We find no robust relation between the frequency of board meetings and corporate performance. Our findings affirm the plurality of governance theories. Although board characteristics are in aggregate perceived to be a strong determinant of firm performance, however, their disaggregation depicts differential effects on the performance of Nigerian banks. The study contributes to (a) empirical validation of theoretical pluralism to gain more insights into the dimensions of corporate governance, and (b) greater understanding of the nexus between board composition and corporate performance through the lens of both financial and nonfinancial factors. The fact that some board characteristics exhibit no or partial relations with firm performance suggests further research in and regulatory attention to the relations between board structure and optimal size for efficient corporate performance.
Making or un-making states: when does war have formative effects?
Authors: Jüde Johannes
Published: October 2021

“War made the state, and the state made war” is Charles Tilly’s famous dictum that has become highly influential both in comparative macrosociology and in International Relations. An extensive literature suggests that this mechanism has played a pivotal role in European processes of state formation. However, its applicability to warfare in the Global South is controversial. While some argue that the relationship remains the same, others are skeptical of the effects of the bellicist mechanism. Against the background of the debate as to whether war makes or un-makes states in the Global South, this paper examines the conditions under which wars have formative effects and result in state-making. Revisiting the war-making/state-making paradigm, I argue that the mode of economic reproduction of “wielders of coercion” determines whether war has formative effects. Wielders of coercion, or more specifically, non-state armed movements may draw on (1) rents, (2) indirect extraction, or (3) direct extraction to sustain their economic base and organize coercion. However, they institutionalize and develop into a state-like organization only when they rely on direct extraction. To support these claims, I conduct a plausibility probe drawing on evidence from highly successful armed insurgencies: Eritrea’s EPLF, Somaliland’s SNM, and Namibia’s SWAPO. In sum, the bellicist relationship remains valid for the Global South, even if the conditions under which war makes states are rare. A more nuanced reading of the bellicist theory improves our understanding of the dynamics of state formation and decay in the post-colonial world.
Ecological Systems for Students Who Use AAC: Stakeholders’ Views on Factors Impacting Intervention and Outcomes
Authors: Biggs Elizabeth E. , Hacker Rebecca E.
Published: October 2021

Although substantial evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention for students with severe disabilities who have complex communication needs, increasing importance is being placed on understanding how to move research into practice. This descriptive qualitative study focused on understanding the views of 19 parents and professionals (i.e., special education teachers, paraeducators, and speech-language pathologists) related to factors impacting intervention and outcomes for students with complex communication needs. Within an implementation science perspective, analysis involved applying ecological systems theory to understand factors across systems acting as challenges or facilitators to effective AAC intervention and to outcomes more broadly for students with complex communication needs. Findings produce insight into the ways student-related and micro-, meso-, macro-, and exosystem factors impact intervention implementation and outcomes, highlighting the importance of cross-cutting factors associated with AAC access, family–school partnerships and supports, and inclusive education. Implications for research and practice are discussed related to how these findings can be used to bridge the gap between research and practice for students with complex communication needs.
People-Planet-Health: promoting grassroots movements through participatory co-production
Authors: Meier Magistretti Claudia , Sallaway-Costello Jake , Fatima Shadhaab , Hartnoll Rachel
Published: October 2021

The threat of anthropogenic climate change demands immediate action to prevent further damage to human health and fragile natural ecosystems. This process of change might locally have already begun, led by grassroots organisations around the world. Conceiving their actions as a form of salutogenesis, these organisations build a Sense of Coherence to empower communities to participate in the potentially overwhelming challenge of planetary health. People-Planet-Health aims at giving voice and visibility to those groups and their actions. Contributors will further be invited to co-create a position paper, to inform the revised WHO Global Strategy for Health Promotion.
A pilot-study focusing on internal rotation after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty using the Activities of Daily Living which require Internal Rotation (ADLIR) score
Authors: Beckers Joris J , Lafosse Laurent , Caruso Giovanni , Kopel Luc , Commeil Paul , Mariaux Sandrine , Lafosse Thibault
Published: October 2021

Background

Loss of internal rotation remains an issue after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). Our goal is to define the expected functional internal rotation after RTSA using the Activities of Daily Living which require Internal Rotation (ADLIR) score in a homogenous population of patients treated with RTSA.

Methods

35 patients with a minimum follow-up of two years after RTSA were evaluated using the ADLIR and Constant-Murley questionnaires. A correlation between the ADLIR and Constant score was investigated and the internal validity of the ADLIR score used in a RTSA patient population was measured using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The impact of internal rotation on the total rotational arc of motion was defined.

Results

Excellent results were recorded for both the Constant score (79 ± 18) and ADLIR score (88 ± 16). Pearson's correlation coefficient was r = 0,84 ( p-value <0,001). The ADLIR score showed a high reliability for all questions.

Conclusions

The ADLIR score has proven to be a useful addition in the post-operative evaluation of patients treated with RTSA. Further studies are needed to investigate the evolution of the ADLIR score from pre- to postoperatively in order to determine the clinical and predictive value of this score.

Level of evidence

Level IV - Observational study.
Evidence supporting a role for circulating macrophages in the regression of vascular remodeling following sub‐chronic exposure to hemoglobin plus hypoxia
Authors: Karoor Vijaya , Swindle Delaney , Pak David I , Harral Julie , Strassheim Derek , Fini Mehdi A , Dempsey Edward , Stenmark Kurt R , Hassell Kathryn , Nuss Rachelle , Buehler Paul W. , Irwin David C.
Published: October 2021

Macrophages are a heterogeneous population with both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory functions play an essential role in maintaining tissue homeostasis, promoting inflammation under pathological conditions, and tissue repair after injury. In pulmonary hypertension, the M1 phenotype is more pro‐inflammatory compared to the M2 phenotype, which is involved in tissue repair. The role of macrophages in the initiation and progression of pulmonary hypertension is well studied. However, their role in the regression of established pulmonary hypertension is not well known. Rats chronically exposed to hemoglobin (Hb) plus hypoxia (HX) share similarities to humans with pulmonary hypertension associated with hemolytic disease, including the presence of a unique macrophage phenotype surrounding distal vessels that are associated with vascular remodeling. These lung macrophages are characterized by high iron content, HO‐1, ET‐1, and IL‐6, and are recruited from the circulation. Depletion of macrophages in this model prevents the development of pulmonary hypertension and vascular remodeling. In this study, we specifically investigate the regression of pulmonary hypertension over a four‐week duration after rats were removed from Hb + HX exposure with and without gadolinium chloride administration. Withdrawal of Hb + HX reversed systolic pressures and right ventricular function after Hb + Hx exposure in four weeks. Our data show that depleting circulating monocytes/macrophages during reversal prevents complete recovery of right ventricular systolic pressure and vascular remodeling in this rat model of pulmonary hypertension at four weeks post exposure. The data presented offer a novel insight into the role of macrophages in the processes of pulmonary hypertension regression in a rodent model of Hb + Hx‐driven disease.
Developing Chenopodium ficifolium as a potential B genome diploid model system for genetic characterization and improvement of allotetraploid quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)
Authors: Subedi Madhav , Neff Erin , Davis Thomas M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a high-value grain known for its excellent nutritional balance. It is an allotetraploid species (AABB, 2n = 4x = 36) formed by the hybridization between AA and BB genome diploid (2n = 2x = 18) species. This study reports genetic studies in Chenopodium ficifolium as a potential B genome diploid model system to simplify the genetic studies of quinoa including gene identification and marker-assisted breeding.

Results

Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Quebec City, Quebec accessions of C. ficifolium were used to develop an F2 population segregating for agronomically relevant traits including flowering time, plant height, the number of branches, branch angle, and internode length. Marker-trait associations were identified for the FLOWERING LOCUS T-LIKE 1 (FTL1) marker gene, where the alternate alleles (A1/A2) were segregating among the F2 generation plants in association with flowering time, plant height, and the number of branches. There was a strong correlation of the flowering time trait with both plant height and the number of branches. Thus, a possible multifaceted functional role for FTL1 may be considered. The parental Portsmouth and Quebec City accessions were homozygous for the alternate FTL1 alleles, which were found to be substantially diverged. SNPs were identified in the FTL1 coding sequence that could have some functional significance in relation to the observed trait variation.

Conclusion

These results draw further attention to the possible functional roles of the FTL1 locus in Chenopodium and justify continued exploration of C. ficifolium as a potential diploid model system for the genetic study of quinoa. We expect our findings to aid in quinoa breeding as well as to any studies related to the Chenopodium genus.
Machine learning approach to needle insertion site identification for spinal anesthesia in obese patients
Authors: In Chan Jason Ju , Ma Jun , Leng Yusong , Tan Kok Kiong , Tan Chin Wen , Sultana Rehena , Sia Alex Tiong Heng , Sng Ban Leong
Published: October 2021

Background

Ultrasonography for neuraxial anesthesia is increasingly being used to identify spinal structures and the identification of correct point of needle insertion to improve procedural success, in particular in obesity. We developed an ultrasound-guided automated spinal landmark identification program to assist anesthetists on spinal needle insertion point with a graphical user interface for spinal anesthesia.

Methods

Forty-eight obese patients requiring spinal anesthesia for Cesarean section were recruited in this prospective cohort study. We utilized a developed machine learning algorithm to determine the needle insertion point using automated spinal landmark ultrasound imaging of the lumbar spine identifying the L3/4 interspinous space (longitudinal view) and the posterior complex of dura mater (transverse view). The demographic and clinical characteristics were also recorded.

Results

The first attempt success rate for spinal anesthesia was 79.1% (38/48) (95%CI 65.0 - 89.5%), followed by successful second attempt of 12.5% (6/48), third attempt of 4.2% (2/48) and 4th attempt (4.2% or 2/48). The scanning duration of L3/4 interspinous space and the posterior complex were 21.0 [IQR: 17.0, 32.0] secs and 11.0 [IQR: 5.0, 22.0] secs respectively. There is good correlation between the program recorded depth of the skin to posterior complex and clinician measured depth (r = 0.915).

Conclusions

The automated spinal landmark identification program is able to provide assistance to needle insertion point identification in obese patients. There is good correlation between program recorded and clinician measured depth of the skin to posterior complex of dura mater. Future research may involve imaging algorithm improvement to assist with needle insertion guidance during neuraxial anesthesia.

Trial registration

This study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov registry (NCT03687411) on 22 Aug 2018.
Mediation analysis methods used in observational research: a scoping review and recommendations
Authors: Rijnhart Judith J. M. , Lamp Sophia J. , Valente Matthew J. , MacKinnon David P. , Twisk Jos W. R. , Heymans Martijn W.
Published: October 2021

Background

Mediation analysis methodology underwent many advancements throughout the years, with the most recent and important advancement being the development of causal mediation analysis based on the counterfactual framework. However, a previous review showed that for experimental studies the uptake of causal mediation analysis remains low. The aim of this paper is to review the methodological characteristics of mediation analyses performed in observational epidemiologic studies published between 2015 and 2019 and to provide recommendations for the application of mediation analysis in future studies.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for observational epidemiologic studies published between 2015 and 2019 in which mediation analysis was applied as one of the primary analysis methods. Information was extracted on the characteristics of the mediation model and the applied mediation analysis method.

Results

We included 174 studies, most of which applied traditional mediation analysis methods (n = 123, 70.7%). Causal mediation analysis was not often used to analyze more complicated mediation models, such as multiple mediator models. Most studies adjusted their analyses for measured confounders, but did not perform sensitivity analyses for unmeasured confounders and did not assess the presence of an exposure-mediator interaction.

Conclusions

To ensure a causal interpretation of the effect estimates in the mediation model, we recommend that researchers use causal mediation analysis and assess the plausibility of the causal assumptions. The uptake of causal mediation analysis can be enhanced through tutorial papers that demonstrate the application of causal mediation analysis, and through the development of software packages that facilitate the causal mediation analysis of relatively complicated mediation models.