bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic Review of Morbidity and Mortality Meeting Standardization: Does It Lead to Improved Professional Development, System Improvements, Clinician Engagement, and Enhanced Patient Safety Culture?
Authors: Steel Emily J. , Janda Monika , Jamali Shayaun , Winning Michelle , Dai Bryan , Sellwood Kylie
Published: December 2023

Objectives

This systematic review sought to better understand the effect of standardized Morbidity and Mortality meetings (M&Ms) on learning, system improvement, clinician engagement, and patient safety culture.

Methods

Three electronic databases were searched using a range of text words, synonyms, and subject headings to identify the major concepts of M&M meetings. Articles published between October 2012 (the end date of an earlier review) and February 2021 were assessed against the inclusion criteria, and thematic synthesis was conducted on the included studies.

Results

After abstract and full-text review in Covidence, from 824 studies identified, 16 met the eligibility criteria. Studies were mostly surveys (n = 13) and evaluated effectiveness primarily from the perspectives of M&M chairs and participants, rather than assessment of objective improvement in patient outcomes. The most prevalent themes relating to the standardization of M&M processes were case selection (n = 15) and administration (n = 12). The objectives of quality improvement and education were equally prevalent (12 studies each), but several studies reported that these 2 objectives as conflicting rather than complementary. Clinician engagement, patient safety culture, and organizational governance and leadership were identified as facilitators of effective M&Ms.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to guide best practice in M&Ms, but standardized structures and processes implemented with organizational leadership and administrative support are associated with M&Ms that address objectives related to learning and system improvement. Standardization of the structures and processes of M&Ms is perceived differently depending on participants’ role and discipline, and clinician engagement is critical to support a culture of safety and quality improvement.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Contrast-Enhanced Thoracic Photon-Counting Computed Tomography for Opportunistic Locoregional Staging of Breast Cancer Compared With Digital Mammography
Authors: Neubauer Jakob , Wilpert Caroline , Gebler Oliver , Taran Florin-Andrei , Pichotka Martin , Stein Thomas , Molina-Fuentes Moisés Felipe , Weiss Jakob , Juhasz-Böss Ingolf , Bamberg Fabian , Windfuhr-Blum Marisa , Neubauer Claudia
Published: December 2023

Objective

Accurate locoregional staging is crucial for effective breast cancer treatment. Photon-counting computed tomography (PC-CT) is an emerging technology with high spatial resolution and the ability to depict uptake of contrast agents in tissues, making it a promising tool for breast cancer imaging. The aim of this study was to establish the feasibility of locoregional staging of breast cancer through contrast-enhanced thoracic PC-CT, assess its diagnostic performance, and compare it with that of digital mammography (DM).

Materials and Methods

Patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer, DM, and indication of thoracic CT staging were prospectively enrolled in this clinical cohort study over a period of 6 months. Participants underwent contrast-enhanced thoracic PC-CT and breast magnetic resonance imaging in prone position. After blinding to patient data, 2 radiologists independently rated PC-CT and DM regarding the following 6 characteristics: (1) diameter of the largest mass lesion, (2) infiltration of cutis/pectoral muscle/thoracic wall, (3) number of mass lesions, (4) presence/absence of adjacent ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), (5) tumor conspicuity, and (6) diagnostic confidence. Reference standard was generated from consensus reading of magnetic resonance imaging combined with all histopathological/clinical data by an independent adjudication committee applying TNM eighth edition.

Results

Among 32 enrolled female subjects (mean ± SD age, 59 ± 13.0 years), diagnostic accuracy for T-classification was higher for PC-CT compared with DM (0.94 vs 0.50, P < 0.01). Moreover, the correlation of the number of detected tumor masses with the reference standard was stronger for PC-CT than for DM (0.72 vs 0.50, P < 0.01). We observed that PC-CT significantly (P < 0.04) outperformed DM regarding not only sensitivity (0.83 and 0.25, respectively) but also specificity (0.99 and 0.80, respectively) for adjacent DCIS. The κ values for interreader reliability were higher for PC-CT compared with DM (mean 0.88 vs 0.54, respectively; P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Photon-counting computed tomography outperformed DM in T-classification and provided higher diagnostic accuracy for the detection of adjacent DCIS. Therefore, opportunistic locoregional staging of breast cancer in contrast-enhanced thoracic PC-CT is feasible and could overcome limitations of DM with the potential to improve patient management.
A targeted metabolomic method to detect epigenetically relevant metabolites
Authors: Miro-Blanch J. , Junza A. , Capellades J. , Balvay A. , Maudet C. , Kovatcheva M. , Raineri S. , Rabot S. , Mellor J. , Serrano M. , Yanes O.
Published: December 2023

Metabolites play a central role in the chemical crosstalk between metabolism and epigenetic marks. Epigenetically relevant metabolites are substrates, products and cofactors that can act as activators or inhibitors of epigenetic enzymes, which control gene expression by adding or removing chemical marks in the DNA, RNA and histones. Diet composition, and biosynthetic pathways encoded in the gut microbiome and the host genome are the main sources of these metabolites for mammals. Despite the increasing interest in the study of the ‘microbiota-nutrient metabolism-host epigenetic axis’ to understand health and disease, there is a lack of a sensitive and easy analytical method to detect epigenetically relevant metabolites simultaneously. Here, we show an straightforward biphasic extraction where the organic phase is directly analyzed by GC-EI MS to detect short-chain fatty acids and formate without chemical derivatization, and the aqueous phase is analyzed by HILIC coupled to ESI-MS/MS, which together can cover >30 epigenetically relevant metabolites in biological samples such as liver, plasma or feces. In addition, we propose a stable isotope tracing method based on multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions by LC-QqQ MS to understand how13C-labeled glucose or glutamine are used to build SAM and acetyl-CoA, the main methyl and acetyl group donors in epigenetic modifications, respectively. We anticipate that our methods will complement epigenomic and proteomic analyses adding another layer of molecular information towards mechanistic insights.

Highlights

Host and microbiota metabolites link metabolism with epigenetic regulation.

Chemical structure diversity in epigenetically relevant metabolites challenges its analysis with a single method.

A biphasic extraction with no chemical derivatization is able to recover SCFAs and other epigenetically relevant metabolites.

A novel isotope trace experiment approach allows isotopomer resolution using MS2 data.
Health supervision for children and adolescents with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Chung Wendy K. , Herrera Faranak F. ,   Simon's Searchlight Foundation
Published: December 2023

Rare genetic conditions are challenging for the primary care provider to manage without proper guidelines. This clinical review is designed to assist the pediatrician, family physician, or internist in the primary care setting to manage the complexities of 16p11.2 deletion syndrome. A multidisciplinary medical home with the primary care provider leading the care and armed with up-to-date guidelines will prove most helpful to the rare genetic patient population. A special focus on technology to fill gaps in deficits, review of case studies on novel medical treatments, and involvement with the educational system for advocacy with an emphasis on celebrating diversity will serve the rare genetic syndrome population well.
Phenotypic Analysis of Preimplantation Lethality in Mice
Authors: Papaioannou Virginia E. , Behringer Richard R.
Published: December 2023

Preimplantation development covers a period of ∼4.5 d from fertilization to implantation in the uterus. If a homozygous mutant phenotype causes the death of embryos during this period, simple culture methods are available that support preimplantation development to allow a thorough morphological assessment. Embryos are recovered from the oviducts or uterus and examined for gross morphology, cell number, and progression through cleavage stages. Blastocysts can also be cultured over the implantation period and undergo a process analogous to implantation in vitro. Different categories of phenotypes such as failure of compaction, abnormal blastocyst formation, or failure to hatch from the zona pellucida and failure to attach and outgrow in vitro are discussed in relation to what each phenotype might portend. Further experimental procedures such as isolation and assessment of blastocyst inner cell mass and analysis of induced implantation delay in vivo may also be appropriate. Additional assessment of preimplantation embryos can involve histology and localization of mRNA or proteins either in sections or whole embryos.
Phenotypic Analysis of Preimplantation Mouse Embryos in Culture
Authors: Papaioannou Virginia E. , Behringer Richard R.
Published: December 2023

Preimplantation embryo culture is a valuable approach to investigate a preimplantation lethal phenotype. Standard culture methods have been perfected such that the entire preimplantation period and the process of implantation can be followed in vitro. This protocol provides modifications for the analysis of clutches of embryos from heterozygous matings specifically for the purpose of distinguishing a preimplantation phenotype in homozygous mutants.
Categorising potential non-disasters
Authors: Podloski Brady , Kelman Ilan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This short paper builds on and critiques work presenting potential non-disasters: disasters that did not seem to happen despite a major hazard. Previous work does not differentiate among different types of potential non-disasters. This short paper uses local information to propose three categories according to reasons for vulnerability being low or absent. These proposed categories are used to critique the construct of “potential non-disasters”.

Design/methodology/approach

This short paper uses a subjective approach to examples of potential non-disasters in 2022, focusing on local information that describes what happened. This information is applied and analysed for the three proposed categories using examples from Japan, Nepal, the Philippines and Vietnam. Such comparisons are useful for critiquing “potential non-disasters”, by understanding better local approaches and information available for reporting on situations that could be disasters.

Findings

Potential non-disasters remain relevant for exploring mechanisms, tools and actions for educating about vulnerability causes and vulnerability reduction to avert disasters. Limitations are evident by relying on media reports, even local ones with local authors. A suggestion is to implement a grant programme for collecting data immediately after a major hazard without an evident, major disaster. Additionally, an annual report and critique of each year's potential non-disasters, categorised and analysed, would help to evidence the presence and limits of the “potential non-disaster” construct.

Originality/value

This short paper contributes a much deeper theoretical dive into understanding potential non-disasters, both describing them and the drawbacks of the construct. To practitioners, the construct now offers more avenues for actions while illustrating their effectiveness in reducing vulnerabilities. Thus, this paper supports multiple, linked pathways towards more non-disasters.
Premier Wallet: banking the unbanked population in Somalia
Authors: Hassan Mohamed Muse
Published: December 2023

Learning outcomes

Upon reading, analyzing and participating in the classroom discussion of this case study, students will be able to use the blue ocean strategy (mainly the Strategy Canvas tool) to analyze how companies establish their products as viable and the go-to solution for consumers; perform a competitive analysis for competitive products; learn how to use data from the case, including industry trends, to predict the future market position of products; and learn how to develop strategies for new products in the market.

Case overview/synopsis

Abdishakur M. Afrah, who served as the Head of Business Development at Premier Bank, oversaw a substantial banking portfolio, which included Premier Wallet – the first digital wallet in Somalia. This case study outlines Premier Wallet’s journey and its transformative impact on the banking sector. Owing to the mobile wallet, consumers could, for the first time, engage in purchasing, withdrawing cash, shopping online and topping up without needing a bank account at Premier Bank. This allowed for the financial inclusion of the unbanked Somali population. This case study also highlights the Wallet Send feature, a disruptive feature that challenged the prevalent Hawala system in Somalia. This feature enabled customers to send money across 110 countries via their smartphones, facilitating direct deposits to the mobile or bank accounts of their family and friends or to cash withdrawal points nearby. Despite these advanced features, Premier Wallet struggled with broader acceptance, hindered by a mere 9% internet penetration, the absence of a national identification (ID) system and stiff competition from WAAFI, a fintech application supported by Hormuud Telecom, Somalia’s leading telecommunications company. The case study also delves into the strategic decisions Afrah had to make to position Premier Wallet as the top mobile money option for consumers in Somalia.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suited for undergraduate-level courses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship
Predictive modeling of career choices among fresh graduates: application of model selection approach
Authors: Wong Shann Torng , Wong Siew Chin , Lim Chui Seong
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The post-pandemic crisis has reshaped work dynamics across industries, leading to a widespread reliance on technology for remote work and business continuity. Operations have shifted to the digital space, altering job requirements and creating new career opportunities. The expansion of the digital industry has generated numerous career choices. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationships between self-efficacy, social media, career outcome expectations and career choices among fresh graduates in Malaysia amid the pandemic crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Research data were collected from a sample of 318 fresh graduates from both public and private universities in Malaysia. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data in this study.

Findings

The empirical findings revealed significant correlations between self-efficacy, social media usage and career outcome expectations and the career choices of Malaysian fresh graduates.

Research limitations/implications

The present study offers an empirical framework to explain career choices among fresh graduates in Malaysia during the pandemic crisis, based on a review of related literature on careers. This research contributes to the body of knowledge on career choices among Generation Z fresh graduates and provides practical implications for organizations and individual employees. It suggests developing relevant Human Resource Development (HRD) interventions to retain the young workforce within organizations.

Originality/value

This study enriches the existing literature on self-efficacy, social media and career outcome expectations in the context of a pandemic crisis. It offers a new interpretation of how individual and contextual factors impact career choices, shaping the career management attitudes of fresh graduates in the post-pandemic era. The empirical findings also give valuable insights into higher education institutions, organizations and government authorities in Malaysia to develop relevant interventions to assist undergraduate students in their career choice exploration.
Elevated plasma myoglobin level is closely associated with type 2 diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Yang Lin , Shen Yan , Li Wenxiao , Zha Bingbing , Xu Wenjun , Ding Heyuan
Published: December 2023

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most frequent complication in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It causes a chronic and progressive decline in kidney function, and ultimately patients require renal replacement therapy. To date, an increasing number of clinical studies have been conducted to explore the potential and novel biomarkers, which can advance the diagnosis, estimate the prognosis, and optimize the therapeutic strategies at the early stage of DKD. In the current study, we sought to investigate the association of plasma myoglobin with DKD.

Methods

A total of 355 T2DM patients with DKD and 710 T2DM patients without DKD were enrolled in this study. Laboratory parameters including blood cell count, hemoglobin A1c, biochemical parameters, and plasma myoglobin were recorded. Patients were classified on admission according to the tertile of myoglobin and clinical parameters were compared between the groups. Pearson correlation analysis, linear regression, logistic regression, receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis, and spline regression were performed.

Results

Plasma myoglobin significantly increased in patients with DKD and was associated with renal function and inflammatory parameters. Plasma myoglobin was an independent risk factor for the development of DKD. The area under ROC curve of myoglobin was 0.831. Spline regression showed that there was a significant linear association between DKD incidence and a high level of plasma myoglobin when it exceeded 36.4 mg/mL.

Conclusions

This study shows that elevated plasma myoglobin level is closely associated with the development of kidney injury in patients with T2DM.

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Here to stay? Policy changes in alcohol home delivery and “to‐go” sales during and after COVID‐19 in the United States
Authors: Lemp Julia M. , Kilian Carolin , Probst Charlotte
Published: December 2023

During the early phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic, legislative changes that expanded alcohol home delivery and options for “to‐go” alcohol sales were introduced across the United States to provide economic relief to establishments and retailers. Using data from the Alcohol Policy Information System, we examined whether these changes have persisted beyond the peak phase of the COVID‐19 emergency and explored the implications for public health. Illustration of state‐level policy data reveals that the liberalisation of alcohol delivery and “to‐go” alcohol sales has continued throughout a 2‐year period (2020 and 2021), with indications that many of these changes have or will become permanent after the pandemic. This raises concerns about inadequate regulation, particularly in preventing underage access to alcohol, and ensuing changes in drinking practices. In this commentary, we highlight the need for rigorous empirical evaluation of the public health impact of this changing policy landscape and underscore the potential risks associated with increased alcohol availability, including a corresponding increase in alcohol‐attributable mortality and other alcohol‐related harm, such as domestic violence. Policy makers should carefully consider public health consequences, whose costs may surpass short‐term economic interests in the long term.
Unravelling the effect of blood group on FVIII:C levels and response to DDAVP in 20 males with a single genotype (Twillingate Variant) causing Haemophilia A
Authors: Shu Michael , Malcolmson Caroline , Bouskill Vanessa , Stain Ann Marie , Wakefield Cindy , Blanchette Victor S. , Carcao Manuel D.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The genetic variant responsible for haemophilia A (HA) significantly impacts endogenous coagulant factor VIII (FVIII:C) level, thus impacting DDAVP responsiveness. Blood group (BG) also impacts FVIII:C levels, but this is difficult to evaluate in a genetically heterogeneous population. Canada has a large cohort of mild‐moderate HA due to a single point variant: c.6104T>C, p.Val2035Ala—the Twillingate variant.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of BG on endogenous FVIII:C levels and DDAVP responsiveness in a single genotype of mild‐moderate HA.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single‐centre study. BG and FVIII:C levels were obtained for males with the Twillingate variant. One‐hour absolute and fold increases in FVIII:C post‐DDAVP were calculated. T‐tests and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare FVIII:C levels and DDAVP challenge variables between individuals according to BGs (O vs. non‐O).

Results

Twenty males were included. There were significant differences between BGs (O vs. non‐O) in their lowest FVIII:C level at age <12 years (medians: 0.05 vs. 0.08 IU/mL; P = .05). Fifteen subjects underwent DDAVP challenges. Mean 1‐h FVIII:C were 0.29 (O BG) versus 0.41 IU/mL (non‐O BG); P = .04. There were no significant differences between BGs (O vs. non‐O) in mean absolute FVIII:C increase (0.20 vs. 0.27 IU/mL; P = .10) and FVIII:C fold increase (3.3‐fold vs. 3.8‐fold; P = .51).

Conclusion

In HA subjects with an identical genotype, BG significantly impacts baseline FVIII:C levels and FVIII:C levels post‐DDAVP, but does not impact absolute and fold increases in FVIII:C with DDAVP.
The soluble IL‐2 receptor α/CD25 as a modulator of IL‐2 function
Authors: Lokau Juliane , Petasch Lynn M. , Garbers Christoph
Published: December 2023

The pleiotropic cytokine interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) is an integral regulator of healthy and pathological immune responses, with the most important role in regulating the homeostasis of regulatory T cells. IL‐2 signalling involves three distinct receptors: The IL‐2 receptor α (IL‐2Rα/CD25), IL‐2Rβ, and IL‐2Rγ/γc. While IL‐2Rβ and γc are essential for signal transduction, IL‐2Rα regulates the affinity of the receptor complex towards IL‐2. A soluble form of the IL‐2Rα (sIL‐2Rα) is present in the blood of healthy individuals and increased under various pathological conditions. Although it is known that the sIL‐2Rα retains its ability to bind IL‐2, it is not fully understood how this molecule affects IL‐2 function and thus immune responses. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the generation and function of the sIL‐2Rα. We describe the molecular mechanisms leading to sIL‐2Rα generation and discuss the different IL‐2 modulating functions that have been attributed to the sIL‐2Rα. Finally, we describe attempts to utilize the sIL‐2Rα as a therapeutic tool.
Acute procedural efficacy and safety of a novel expandable diameter cryoballoon in atrial fibrillation ablation: Early results from a multicenter ablation registry
Authors: Isonaga Yuhei , Miyazaki Shinsuke , Nitta Junichi , Shirai Yasuhiro , Inamura Yukihiro , Sagawa Yuichiro , Yamauchi Yasuteru , Sasaki Takeshi , Inaba Osamu , Sasano Tetsuo
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The major limitation of the current cryoballoon (CB) system is a fixed 28 mm balloon‐size. We sought to analyze real‐world early experience with novel‐sized adjustable CB.

Methods

This multicenter observational study included 140 consecutive atrial fibrillation patients (71 years, 94 men, 86 paroxysmal) who underwent pulmonary vein (PV) isolation using expandable diameter CB capable of ablation at 28 or 31 mm.

Results

Out of 544 targeted PVs, 526 (96.7%) were successfully isolated by a size‐adjustable CB with a 770 [690−870] second median application dose, while the remaining 18 required touch‐up ablation. Among them, 326 (62.0%) PVs were isolated by a 31 mm balloon, and the rate was significantly higher for upper than lower PVs (73.0% vs. 45.7%, p < .0001) and highest for right superior (78.5%) and lowest for right inferior (39.9%) PVs. The biophysical parameters and time to isolation were comparable between the 28 and 31 mm balloons, however, the real‐time PV potential monitoring capability was significantly higher for 31 mm than 28 mm balloons for the left superior PV. The esophageal temperature reached 15°C during left inferior PV ablation significantly more often with 31 mm than 28 mm balloons (43.1% vs. 18.2%, p = .008). Right phrenic nerve injury (PNI) occurred in 9 (6.4%) patients during applications (6 right superior, 2 right inferior PVs), and most occurred with a 31 mm balloon.

Conclusions

Our real‐world early data demonstrated high acute efficacy and safety of the novel‐sized adjustable CB. The biophysical parameters were similar between the 28 and 31 mm balloons. No marked decrease in the incidence of PNI was observed even with 31 mm balloons.
Epidemiology of plaque‐induced gingivitis among 12–15‐year‐old Chinese schoolchildren: A study based on the 2018 case definition
Authors: Wang Wenhui , Feng Xiping , Tai Baojun , Hu Deyu , Lin Huancai , Wang Bo , Wang Chunxiao , Zheng Shuguo , Liu Xuenan , Rong Wensheng , Wang Weijian , Si Yan
Published: December 2023

Aim

To explore the epidemiology of plaque‐induced gingivitis and related factors among Chinese adolescents.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional survey comprised 118,601 schoolchildren in the 12–15‐year age group. Data came from the National Oral Health Survey in mainland China. The field investigation was conducted according to the World Health Organization guidelines. The new 2018 case definition for plaque‐induced gingivitis was used. Participants underwent clinical examinations and completed a structured questionnaire. Bleeding on probing (BOP) was performed on all teeth. Multinomial logistic regression was used to explore the factors related to the extent of gingivitis.

Results

Nearly half of the study population (47.3%) had plaque‐induced gingivitis; 23.9% and 23.3% presented with localised and generalised gingivitis, respectively. The first molars were the most affected by BOP. Well‐established factors, such as demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, local factors and smoking habits, were significantly associated with the extent of gingivitis. Odds ratios for localised and generalised gingivitis increased with the decrease in frequency of toothbrushing with a fluoride dentifrice.

Conclusions

The study population had high plaque‐induced gingivitis prevalence. The extent of gingivitis appeared to have a dose–response relationship with the frequency of toothbrushing with a fluoride dentifrice.
Predictors of blood ionized calcium concentration in sick adult cattle
Authors: Karapinar Tolga , Tumer Kenan Cagri , Constable Peter D. , Buczinski Sébastien M. C.
Published: December 2023

Background

Data on the factors affecting blood ionized calcium concentration (ciCa2+) and diagnostic performance of serum total calcium concentration (ctCa) measurements to detect abnormal blood iCa2+ status are lacking in sick adult cattle.

Objective

Assess the association of ciCa2+ with venous blood pH, plasma concentrations of chloride (cCl), sodium (cNa), and potassium (cK), and ctCa, and total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations in sick adult cattle.

Animals

Two‐hundred and sixty‐five adult cattle (≥1‐year‐old) with different diseases.

Methods

Prospective study. Whole blood pH, ciCa2+, cNa, cK, and cCl were measured using a blood gas and electrolyte analyzer, whereas ctCa, and total protein, and albumin concentrations were determined using an autoanalyzer. The relationship between ciCa2+ and venous blood pH, plasma cCl, cNa, cK, and ctCa, and total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations was investigated. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for ctCa for diagnosis of abnormal ciCa2+.

Results

Sensitivity of ctCa measurements to detect abnormal ciCa2+ was 66.0% whereas specificity of ctCa measurements was 72.3%. Serum total calcium concentration measurements accounted for 42% of adjusted blood ionized calcium (iCa2+7.40) concentration variance. Plasma cCl, and cK had explanatory power of ciCa2+7.40, accounting for an additional 21% and 9% of the variance, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Serum tCa measurements failed to accurately predict blood iCa2+ status in ill adult cattle. Serum tCa concentrations and plasma cCl were the strongest predictors of ciCa2+ in sick adult cattle.
Aortic annular plane systolic excursion in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dutton Luke C. , Spalla Ilaria , Seo Joonbum , Silva Joel , Novo Matos Jose
Published: December 2023

Background

Impairment of left ventricular (LV) longitudinal function is an early marker of systolic dysfunction in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Aortic annular plane systolic excursion (AAPSE) is a measure of LV longitudinal function in people that has not been evaluated in cats.

Hypothesis

Aortic annular plane systolic excursion is lower in cats with HCM compared to control cats, and cats in stage C have the lowest AAPSE.

Animals

One hundred seventy‐five cats: 60 normal, 61 HCM stage B and 54 HCM stage C cats.

Materials

Multicenter retrospective case‐control study. Electronic medical records from 4 referral hospitals were reviewed for cats diagnosed with HCM and normal cats. HCM was defined as LV wall thickness ≥6 mm and normal cats ≤5 mm. M‐mode bisecting the aorta in right parasternal short‐axis view was used to measure AAPSE.

Results

Aortic annular plane systolic excursion was lower in HCM cats compared to normal cats (3.9 ± 0.9 mm versus 4.6 ± 0.9 mm, P < .001) and was lowest in HCM stage C (2.4 ± 0.6 mm, P < .001). An AAPSE <2.9 mm gave a sensitivity of 83% (95% CI 71%‐91%) and specificity of 92% (95% CI 82%‐97%) to differentiate HCM stage C from stage B. AAPSE correlated with mitral annular plane systolic excursion (r = .6 [.4‐.7], P < .001), and atrial fractional shortening (r = .6 [.5‐.7], P < .001), but showed no correlation with LV fractional shortening.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Aortic annular plane systolic excursion is an easily acquired echocardiographic variable and might be a new measurement of LV systolic performance in cats with HCM.
Pathogen invasion increases the abundance of predatory protists and their prey associations in the plant microbiome
Authors: Gao Min , Xiong Chao , Tsui Clement K. M. , Cai Lei
Published: December 2023

Soil and plant‐associated protistan communities play a key role in shaping bacterial and fungal communities, primarily through their function as top‐down predators. However, our understanding of how pathogen invasion influences these protistan communities and their relationships with bacterial and fungal communities remains limited. Here, we studied the protistan communities along the soil–plant continuum of healthy chilli peppers and those affected by Fusarium wilt disease (FWD), and integrated bacterial and fungal community data from our previous research. Our research showed that FWD was associated with a significant enrichment of phagotrophic protists in roots, and also increased the proportion and connectivity of these protists (especially Cercozoa and Ciliophora) in both intra‐ and inter‐kingdom networks. Furthermore, the microbiome of diseased plants not only showed a higher relative abundance of functional genes related to bacterial anti‐predator responses than healthy plants, but also contained a greater abundance of metagenome‐assembled genomes with functional traits involved in this response. The increased microbial inter‐kingdom associations between bacteria and protists, coupled with the notable bacterial anti‐predator feedback in the microbiome of diseased plants, suggest that FWD may catalyse the associations between protists and their microbial prey. These findings highlight the potential role of predatory protists in influencing microbial assembly and functionality through top‐down forces under pathogenic stress.
Platform labour in contexts of high informality: Any improvement for workers? A critical assessment based on the case of Argentina
Authors: Filipetto Sonia , Micha Ariela , Pereyra Francisca , Poggi Cecilia , Trombetta Martín
Published: December 2023

The article analyses the effects of digital labour platforms in a context characterised by high informality, exploring the way platforms may or may not imply a disruption in this respect. To do so, it examines the labour transitions that lead to platform labour, taking into account the formal status of workers before and after joining platforms, as well as their evaluation of resulting labour conditions. The article relies on a quantitative survey and in depth interviews for three on‐demand occupations in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area, ride‐hailing, home repairs and domestic service. Results show that a platform's influence on the formal status of workers (and their assessment of it) is highly contingent upon: the platform's business model, including the legal status that may be used to integrate the workforce, the pre‐existing formal/informal dynamics within the occupation and the general labour market situation.
Do budget maneuvers reduce future budget resiliency? Evidence from states following the great recession
Authors: Stavick John
Published: December 2023

Conventional wisdom suggests budget maneuvers threaten long‐term structural balance because they transfer resources from the future to the present by non‐transparent means. Budget maneuvers remain poorly understood in part because they are more difficult to observe than traditional tax and expenditure changes to remedy budget deficits. In this research, a taxonomy of budget maneuvers influenced by the recent work of the Volcker Alliance and other public budgeting scholars is used to create an original tally of maneuvers used by U.S. state governments during the Great Recession. Ten states implemented more than half of documented budget maneuver use during that era, while incidence of maneuver use for the remaining 40 states is largely limited to transfers of balances from cash funds. This supports NASBO's contention that maneuvers are not a primary budget‐balancing instrument for most states. This research then presents the postrecession trajectories of four states that relied heavily on maneuvers—California, Connecticut, Illinois, and Wisconsin. While California and Wisconsin largely curtailed the use of budget maneuvers after the Great Recession, Connecticut and Illinois continued to implement them as they remained mired in subsequent budget crises.
Constitutive expression of apple endo‐POLYGALACTURONASE1 in fruit induces early maturation, alters skin structure and accelerates softening
Authors: Gunaseelan Kularajathevan , Schröder Roswitha , Rebstock Ria , Ninan Annu S. , Deng Cecilia , Khanal Bishnu P. , Favre Laurie , Tomes Sumathi , Dragulescu Monica A. , O'Donoghue Erin M. , Hallett Ian C. , Schaffer Robert J. , Knoche Moritz , Brummell David A. , Atkinson Ross G.
Published: December 2023

During fruit ripening, polygalacturonases (PGs) are key contributors to the softening process in many species. Apple is a crisp fruit that normally exhibits only minor changes to cell walls and limited fruit softening. Here, we explore the effects of PG overexpression during fruit development using transgenic apple lines overexpressing the ripening‐related endo‐POLYGALACTURONASE1 gene. MdPG1‐overexpressing (PGox) fruit displayed early maturation/ripening with black seeds, conversion of starch to sugars and ethylene production occurring by 80 days after pollination (DAP). PGox fruit exhibited a striking, white‐skinned phenotype that was evident from 60 DAP and most likely resulted from increased air spaces and separation of cells in the hypodermis due to degradation of the middle lamellae. Irregularities in the integrity of the epidermis and cuticle were also observed. By 120 DAP, PGox fruit cracked and showed lenticel‐associated russeting. Increased cuticular permeability was associated with microcracks in the cuticle around lenticels and was correlated with reduced cortical firmness at all time points and extensive post‐harvest water loss from the fruit, resulting in premature shrivelling. Transcriptomic analysis suggested that early maturation was associated with upregulation of genes involved in stress responses, and overexpression of MdPG1 also altered the expression of genes involved in cell wall metabolism (e.g. β‐galactosidase, MD15G1221000) and ethylene biosynthesis (e.g. ACC synthase, MD14G1111500). The results show that upregulation of PG not only has dramatic effects on the structure of the fruit outer cell layers, indirectly affecting water status and turgor, but also has unexpected consequences for fruit development.
Laparoscopic partial pancreatectomy of the left limb using a harmonic scalpel in nine cats
Authors: Case J. Brad , Adin Christopher , Chiquitha Crews , Gilor Chen
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe a laparoscopic technique and outcome for partial pancreatectomy in cats.

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Animals

Nine cats.

Methods

Laparoscopic pancreatectomy was performed using a single incision laparoscopic surgery port and an additional 5.5 mm port. The left pancreatic limb was dissected, sealed and divided at the level of the splenic vein insertion to the portal vein using a harmonic device. Surgical time and complications were recorded. The weight and length of the resected pancreatic limb was recorded. Pre‐ and postoperative trypsin‐like immunoreactivity (TLI), pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (PLI), and hemoglobin A1C were documented.

Results

Laparoscopic partial pancreatectomy was performed successfully in all cats. One grade 1 intraoperative complication occurred (1/9; 11%) resulting in minor hemorrhage from a caudal splenic vein branch. A grade 2 postoperative complication occurred within 3 days after surgery in one cat (1/9; 11%), involving localized, sterile peritonitis in the region of the pancreatic angle. Signs resolved with conservative management. No cats exhibited signs of pancreatitis postoperatively. Long‐term, mean TLI decreased by 37% ± 38% (p = .03) following partial pancreatectomy, while PLI and A1C were unchanged. All cats were alive and clinically well at last follow‐up 250 to 446 days following surgery.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic partial pancreatectomy using a harmonic device is effective in cats, and offers a minimally‐invasive alternative to open surgical pancreatectomy techniques. Laparoscopic pancreatectomy of the left limb results in adequate exocrine and endocrine function in the long‐term.
Drinfeld's lemma for F-isocrystals, II: Tannakian approach
Authors: Kedlaya Kiran S. , Xu Daxin
Published: December 2023

We prove a Tannakian form of Drinfeld's lemma for isocrystals on a variety over a finite field, equipped with actions of partial Frobenius operators. This provides an intermediate step towards transferring V. Lafforgue's work on the Langlands correspondence over function fields from $\ell$-adic to $p$-adic coefficients. We also discuss a motivic variant and a local variant of Drinfeld's lemma.
Trade and Peace Revisited
Authors: Kim Kyeongbae
Published: December 2023

The existing literature on trade and peace has not definitively established whether bilateral trade reduces the probability of militarized conflict. While estimated effects remain highly sensitive to empirical specifications, a commonly overlooked aspect within this literature is the insufficient consideration of potential heterogeneous relationships across country pairs and the temporal dependence of conflicts. In this paper, we present supportive evidence of the pacifying effect of trade when both heterogeneity and temporal dependence are simultaneously taken into account. By applying the Arellano-Bond model to datasets from Keshk, Pollins, and Reuveny (2004) and Hegre, Oneal, and Russett (2010), which respectively indicated no and negative effects of trade on conflict, we find that bilateral trade significantly reduces the likelihood of conflict in both datasets. This finding adds further support to liberal claims regarding the interconnected nature of economic interdependence and conflict.
Artificial Flow Guidance Method for Combined Off-Tracking and Stability Improvement for Automated Articulated Vehicles
Authors: Rahman Shammi , Gordon Timothy , Liu Qingwei , Gao Yangyan , Henderson Leon , Laine Leo
Published: December 2023

This paper considers an integrated control method combining autonomous driving and active steering. By using artificial flow guidance (AFG), the steering at all five axles on a tractor–semitrailer are synchronized for precise low-speed path tracking and improved lateral stability. AFG is a motion planning method which uses velocity vectors to guide the motion of the vehicle; here, two modification on AFG are proposed to form the integrated-AFG which improves the transient performance and generalizes the choice of the tracking points. Simulations rendered in TruckMaker show submillimeter level steady-state off-tracking for a broad speed range, with maximum deviation being 1 cm for a high-speed lane change; amplification of trailer lateral motion is also suppressed, with rearward amplification (RWA) < 1 maintained throughout. This control method is robust to changes in key parameters such as trailer mass and road friction coefficient. The methods presented provide a new foundation for implementing automated freight transportation on highways.
Interstage Performance and Power Consumption of a Multistage Mixed-Flow Electrical Submersible Pump in Gas–Liquid Conditions: An Experimental Study
Authors: Yang Chenyu , Xu Qiang , Chang Liang , Dai Xiaoyu , Wang Hanxuan , Su Xiaobin , Guo Liejin
Published: December 2023

The performance degradation of electrical submersible pump (ESP) caused by high gas volume fraction (GVF) has always been a common problem in the field of oil and gas production. Experiments are conducted to investigate the gas–liquid performances of pressurization, power, and efficiency of a 15-stage mixed-flow ESP self-designed and manufactured. A calculation method of gas–liquid useful power is proposed based on the hypothesis of isothermal compression, with the relative error of calculated results within ±2% between isothermal compression and polytropic compression. The rapid decrease of useful power is found to be the main reason for the rapid decrease of hydraulic efficiency as the pump-inlet gas volume fraction (IGVF) increases. Moreover, the interstage pressurization deterioration gradually weakens along the increasing direction of stage number. The calculation method of interstage gas volume fraction is proposed, and the gas–liquid pressurization of each booster stage is found to follow the same distribution with the variation of interstage gas volume fraction. Increasing the stage number can efficiently improve the critical gas volume fraction of interstage pressurization deterioration, as well as the pressurization boundary and maximum value of average single-stage gas–liquid pressurization. The prediction correlations of gas–liquid operating conditions of the maximum pressurization and the highest hydraulic efficiency are established, respectively, and the gas–liquid condition range of high-efficiency pressurization is discovered.
Curriculum Alignment: Doing Kinesiology as We Mean It
Authors: Chen Ang
Published: December 2023

Based on the lessons learned from history and articulation of paradigm change in science, this article clarifies the concept of curriculum alignment and describes the risk of curriculum disalignment between school physical education and kinesiology. Through contextualizing kinesiology as an integrated science, it explains the difference between a discipline and a field (subdiscipline) and argues that K–12 physical education is an integral and indispensable component of kinesiology. The article provides detailed discussions about the historical reasons/events that might have led to the curriculum disalignment and the ways the disalignment can be understood and addressed. Based on the analysis, a four-pillar framework (science, health, culture, and education) is proposed as a platform for “doing kinesiology” and a way to address the curriculum disalignment crisis.
A Collective Case Study of Parent–Athlete–Coach Triads in British Youth Tennis
Authors: Tagliavini Ella F. , Harwood Chris G. , Jowett Sophia , Thrower Sam N.
Published: December 2023

While important for athletic development and well-being in youth sport, knowledge remains limited around the processes underpinning triadic relationships between parents, athletes, and coaches. This study aimed to examine the relational processes that drive the functioning of parent–athlete–coach triads across three developmental stages of youth tennis. Using a collective-case-study design, 10 players, 10 coaches, and 9 mothers completed preinterview tasks and semistructured interviews and provided conversational history. Reflexive thematic analysis led to the generation of two higher order themes: foundations of relationship quality and factors enabling team effectiveness. Findings highlighted how specific relationship qualities (i.e., commitment, trust, respect, and parent–coach proximity) and team effectiveness constructs (i.e., shared goals, collaborative and adjusted roles, support, and role-specific communication) served to facilitate the tennis experience for triads. Scholars are encouraged to consider integrating small-group principles (e.g., team building) into tailored support programs that address the psychosocial needs of the triad.
Wavelength-division multiplexing optical Ising simulator enabling fully programmable spin couplings and external magnetic fields
Authors: Luo Li , Mi Zhiyi , Huang Junyi , Ruan Zhichao
Published: December 2023

Recently various physical systems have been proposed for modeling Ising spin Hamiltonians appealing to solve combinatorial optimization problems with remarkable performance. However, how to implement arbitrary spin-spin interactions is a critical and challenging problem in unconventional Ising machines. Here, we propose a general gauge transformation scheme to enable arbitrary spin-spin interactions and external magnetic fields as well, by decomposing an Ising Hamiltonian into multiple Mattis-type interactions. With this scheme, a wavelength-division multiplexing spatial photonic Ising machine (SPIM) is developed to show the programmable capability of general spin coupling interactions. We exploit the wavelength-division multiplexing SPIM to simulate three spin systems: ±
J
models, Sherrington-Kirkpatrick models, and only locally connected
J
1
-
J
2
models and observe the phase transitions. We also demonstrate the ground-state search for solving Max-Cut problem with the wavelength-division multiplexing SPIM. These results promise the realization of ultrafast-speed and high–power efficiency Boltzmann sampling to a generalized large-scale Ising model.