bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A puncturable attribute-based data sharing scheme for the Internet of Medical Robotic Things
Authors: Basudan Sultan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

In line with the fast development of information technology, the Internet of Medical Robotic Things (IoMRT) is gaining more ground in health care. Sharing patients' information effectively and securely can improve sensing data usage and confidentiality. Nevertheless, current IoMRT data sharing schemes are lacking in terms of supporting efficient forward secrecy; when secret key for a robotic nurse as a data requester is compromised, all the historically shared data with this robotic nurse will be leaked.

Design/methodology/approach

The presented paper suggests an efficient puncturable attribute-based data sharing scheme enabling guaranteed firm security and versatile access control over health sensing data in IoMRT. This scheme integrates attribute-based and puncturable encryption to avail a shared secret key for data sharing that can be encrypted by an access structure over the Data Requester (DR) attributes. Additionally, the establishment of the shared key and the mutual authentication is simultaneously done between the cloud servers and DRs.

Findings

The proposed scheme can achieve forward secrecy by adopting the bloom filter technique that efficiently helps the updating of a private key with no need for the key distributor to reissue the key. The security proof illustrates that this scheme adheres to the security model. Besides, the performance evaluation expresses the feasibility of the suggested scheme.

Originality/value

The main goal of designing a puncture algorithm is to devise an updated key from the ciphertext and a secret key, allowing the decryption of all ciphertexts except the one that has been punctured on. This research illustrates the first effort to develop a puncturable attribute-based encryption scheme to achieve efficient finegrained data sharing in IoMRT.
Sustainability reporting in justice systems: a comparative research in two European countries
Authors: Fusco Floriana , Civitillo Renato , Ricci Paolo , Morawska Sylwia , Pustułka Katarzyna , Banasik Przemysław
Published: August 2021

Purpose

That on accountability in public organizations is quite an old debate. Its introduction in judicial systems is, however, still viewed with some suspicion, due to its potential trade-off with independence and impartiality. Nevertheless, the need to respond to the demands for greater transparency and accountability has also pushed judicial organizations to establish a dialogue with a wide range of subjects. This study aims to explore the understanding and the current practices of sustainability reporting currently in place in judicial systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a comparative approach, conducting an online survey in two European countries (Italy and Poland). The survey was built around the research questions and literature and administered between February and March 2020. Specifically, 804 courts were involved, of which 430 are in Italy and 374 in Poland.

Findings

Findings show that the current practices are still not widespread and there is still a lack of understanding of what sustainability reporting is, and therefore, of what its potential usefulness within the courts could be. Moreover, many differences between the two countries are pointed out, so it is possible to assume that the different cultural and institutional settings influence sustainability reporting practices. Finally, some interesting implications for policymakers are provided.

Originality/value

Judicial organizations are still poorly investigated in the literature, despite being at the center of a wide public and political debate. Moreover, the international comparative perspective adopted constitutes a further aspect of novelty.
Online resilience support groups during the COVID-19 pandemic: the Philippine experience
Authors: Hechanova Maria Regina , Alianan, Jr Arsenio S. , Jocson Rosanne M. , Villasanta Angelique P.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the outcomes of an online resilience support group during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. Specifically, it described the extent to which the program improved adaptive coping, non-reactivity, resilience and well-being and decreased stress, depression and anxiety symptoms of participants.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a pretest–posttest design with 53 participants. A majority of participants were female (74%) who participated in the program for 6–8 weeks. Scales measuring adaptive coping, non-reactivity, resilience, well-being, stress, depression and anxiety were administered before and after the completion of the modules.

Findings

Results revealed significant improvements in adaptive coping particularly seeking emotional and instrumental support, active coping, and religious coping. The results also showed significant improvements in nonreactivity, psychological well-being and resilience and decrease in depression symptoms. Effect size estimates indicate medium effect sizes for well-being and nonreactivity with the other outcomes having small effect sizes.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this study is the lack of a randomized control trial design and the lack of control for extraneous variables. Future studies using rigorous and longitudinal designs are recommended. Future studies may also examine program implementation factors such as using homogenous groups.

Practical implications

In most low-income countries, the provision of mental health and psychosocial support during the COVID-19 pandemic has been hampered by the lack of mental health professionals, issues of internet connectivity and a lack of resources and access. Online resilience support groups may provide a means to address these challenges by making mental health support more accessible and available.

Social implications

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused isolation and a means to bridge this is through peer support groups. This may be especially important in collectivist cultures where social relationships serve as recovery capital.

Originality/value

Although there has been a rise in the use of technology, most are in the form of individual or self-help interventions. This paper examines the feasibility of an online structured peer support group that focuses on building resilience skills. It fills a gap in the literature on online peer support groups that may be most relevant for low-income countries with a dearth of mental health specialists.
The humanities: it is their time
Authors: Atkinson David W.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Much has been written about the crisis in the Humanities even as student interest in the Humanities continues to decline. In the so-called “post-truth,” “post-COVID19” period,” however, the Humanities deserve attention for the important role they must play in preparing students for the world during a period of dramatic change.

Design/methodology/approach

Discussion focuses on the “post-truth” period and how the Humanities have a role in confronting misinformation and “fake news.” It provides specific actions for how those in the Humanities might address the current situation. It relies on the author’s considerable background as a university Dean and President over a period of over 40 years and draws on a variety of written material addressing the future of the Humanities.

Findings

In a period when the world confronts unprecedented change, when misinformation is confused with the truth and when social media exercises so much influence, students more than ever need the insight and context of the Humanities to mitigate the cant, bogus claims and questionable ethics that so much shape the world. Responsibility falls to faculty as they must make clear to their students how the Humanities provide a perspective that allows students to work through the big questions of their time.

Research limitations/implications

Much has been written about the challenges facing the Humanities. It is hoped that this paper will generate additional discussion on how the Humanities might assert themselves during what are troubling times in higher education.

Originality/value

The author’s long experience as a senior university administrator provides a perspective that faculty and administrators might find useful as they consider the future of the Humanities at their institutions.
The role of entrepreneurial orientation, organizational learning capability and service innovation in organizational performance
Authors: Gomes Giancarlo , Seman Laio Oriel , Berndt Ana Clara , Bogoni Nadia
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationships between Entrepreneurial Orientation, Organizational Learning Capability, Service Innovation and Organizational Performance. To this end, it was sought to analyze the mediating role of organizational learning capability and service innovation within entrepreneurial orientation and organizational performance relationship in knowledge-intensive organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of 159 architecture and urbanism companies from Santa Catarina, Brazil. The study opted to use managers as key informants since they are the ones that have general information about the organization and are a valuable source for assessing the different variables of the organization. For data analysis, the PLS-PM algorithm (Partial Least Squares Path Modeling) was used.

Findings

Results showed that entrepreneurial orientation is a strong driver of service innovation and organizational performance. Organizational learning capability acts as a facilitator of innovation and has a positive influence on organizational performance. Another theoretical contribution of this study to organizational learning capability is the confirmation of its mediation in service innovation and organizational performance. Management needs to make its organization more proactive and creative, continually promoting new ideas. Architecture and urbanism organizations should pay more attention to maintaining and promoting entrepreneurial orientation permanently. The trend toward both proactivity and risk-taking can be an inherent advantage of these knowledge-intensive business services.

Originality/value

Few studies have explored the mediating role of organizational learning capability and service innovations in organizational performance. In particular, the combined effects of entrepreneurial orientation and organizational learning capability have been neglected by the knowledge-intensive organizations literature. The study is justified by providing a more complete view of the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and the performance of knowledge-intensive organizations, highlighting the role of organizational learning capability and performance in service innovation.
Mito‐targeted antioxidant prevents cardiovascular remodelling in spontaneously hypertensive rat by modulation of energy metabolism
Authors: Potnuri Ajay Godwin , Purushothaman Sreeja , Saheera Sherin , Nair Renuka R.
Published: August 2021

Hypertension induced left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) augments the risk of cardiovascular anomalies. Mitochondrial alterations result in oxidative stress, accompanied by decrease in fatty acid oxidation, leading to the activation of the hypertrophic program. Targeted antioxidants are expected to reduce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species more effectively than general antioxidants. This study was designed to assess whether the mito‐targeted antioxidant, Mito‐Tempol (Mito‐TEMP) is more effective than the general oxidant, Tempol (TEMP) in reduction of hypertension and hypertrophy and prevention of shift in cardiac energy metabolism. Spontaneously hypertensive rats were administered either TEMP (20 mg/kg/day) or Mito‐TEMP (2 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally for 30 days. Post treatment, animals were subjected to 2D‐echocardiography. Myocardial lysates were subjected to RPLC – LTQ‐Orbitrap‐MS analysis. Mid‐ventricular sections were probed for markers of energy metabolism and fibrosis. The beneficial effect on cardiovascular structure and function was significantly higher for Mito‐TEMP. Increase in mitochondrial antioxidants and stimulation of fatty acid metabolism; with significant improvement in cardiovascular function was apparent in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) treated with Mito‐TEMP. The study indicates that Mito‐TEMP is superior to its non‐ targeted isoform in preventing hypertension induced LVH, and the beneficial effects on heart are possibly mediated by reversal of metabolic remodelling.
Relation between carotid intimal medial thickness and left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass indices in maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Bahie Ahmed , El‐Said Ghada , Abd El Wahab Ahmed M.
Published: August 2021

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a risk factor of cardiovascular morbidity in dialysis patients. The association between LV mass and carotid intimal medial thickness (CIMT) could be due to increased hemodynamic load in dialysis patients. The relationship between CIMT and LVM indices in hemodialysis (HD) patients was investigated. This is a cross‐sectional study including 65 HD patients, divided into two groups: Group 1 with CIMT ≤ 1 mm (N = 29), Group 2 with CIMT > 1 mm (N = 36). Echocardiographic evaluation of the LVM, CIMT measurement using B‐mode ultrasonography, patients' basic clinical and biochemical data were recorded. Patients with CIMT > 1 mm (Group 2) showed significantly higher LVM, LVM/BSA (body surface area), and LVM/Ht2.7 (height). Regarding linear regression, CIMT was found to be an independent predictor for LVM, LVM/BSA, and LVM/Ht2.7. LVM, LVMI, and LVM/Ht2.7 are significantly elevated in HD patients with CIMT > 1 mm group. CIMT was found to be the independent predictor for LVH in maintenance HD patients.
Prognostic value of beta‐2 microglobulin on mortality in chronic kidney disease patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Jialing , Lu Xiangxue , Zu Yuan , Li Han , Wang Shixiang
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to delve into whether beta‐2 microglobulin could assess all‐cause mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease. PubMed and Embase were systematically searched. Hazard risk and 95% CI were pooled using random‐effect models. A total of eight studies were involved according to the inclusion and exclusion criterions. By meta‐analysis, each 1 mg/L increase in beta‐2 microglobulin displayed positive relationships to the risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard risk 1.03, 95% CI = 1.02–1.03) and cardiovascular events (hazard risk 1.04, 95% CI = 1.00–1.08) in patients with dialysis. However, the relationship between elevated level of serum beta‐2 microglobulin as a categorical variable and mortality was not significant. The prognostic value of elevated beta‐2 microglobulin might be significant in ESRD patients with dialysis and a proper cutoff value to predict mortality should be determined in the future.
Adiposity in schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Smith Emily , Singh Raghunath , Lee Jiwon , Colucci Laura , Graff‐Guerrero Ariel , Remington Gary , Hahn Margaret , Agarwal Sri Mahavir
Published: August 2021

Objective

Although a relationship between schizophrenia (SCZ), antipsychotic (AP) medication, and metabolic dysregulation is now well established, the effect of adiposity is less well understood. By synthesizing findings from imaging techniques that measure adiposity, our systematic review and meta‐analysis (PROSPERO CRD42020192977) aims to determine the adiposity‐related effects of illness and treatment in this patient population.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO and Scopus for all relevant case‐control and prospective longitudinal studies from inception until February 2021. Measures of adiposity including percent body fat (%BF), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) were analyzed as primary outcomes.

Results

Our search identified 29 articles that used imaging methods to quantify adiposity among patients with SCZ spectrum disorders. Analyses revealed that patients have greater %BF (mean difference (MD) = 3.09%; 95% CI: 0.75–5.44), SAT (MD = 24.29 cm2; 95% CI: 2.97–45.61) and VAT (MD = 33.73 cm2, 95% CI: 4.19–63.27) compared to healthy controls. AP treatment was found to increase SAT (MD = 31.98 cm2; 95% CI: 11.33–52.64) and VAT (MD = 16.30 cm2; 95% CI: 8.17–24.44) with no effect on %BF. However, change in %BF was higher for AP‐free/AP‐naïve patients compared to treated patients.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that patients with SCZ spectrum disorders have greater adiposity than healthy controls, which is increased by AP treatment. Young, AP‐naïve patients may be particularly susceptible to this effect. Future studies should explore the effect of specific APs on adiposity and its relation to overall metabolic health.
Food insecurity risk and alcohol use disorder in US young adults: Findings from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health
Authors: Nagata Jason M. , Whittle Henry J. , Ganson Kyle T. , Tabler Jennifer , Hahn Judith A. , Weiser Sheri D.
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives

The relationship between food insecurity and alcohol use disorder remains unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the association between food insecurity risk and alcohol use disorder in a nationally representative sample of young adults.

Methods

Cross‐sectional nationally representative data of 14,786 US young adults aged 24–32 years old from Wave IV (2008) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health were analyzed to assess a single‐item measure of food insecurity risk and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition (DSM‐5) alcohol use disorder.

Results

Among young adults, 12% were found to be at risk for food insecurity. Young adults with food insecurity risk had greater odds of moderate (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–1.58) and severe (AOR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.34–2.07) threshold alcohol use disorder than food‐secure young adults, adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, receipt of public assistance, household size, and smoking. Food insecurity risk was also associated with a 23% higher (95% CI: 11%–37%) number of problematic alcohol use behaviors (e.g., risky behaviors, continued alcohol use despite emotional or physical health problems).

Discussion and Conclusions

Food insecurity risk is associated with problematic patterns of alcohol use. Health care providers should screen for food insecurity and problematic alcohol use in young adults and provide referrals for further resources and treatment when appropriate.

Scientific Significance

This nationally representative study of US young adults is the first to find an association between food insecurity risk and alcohol use disorder using DSM‐5 criteria.
Clinical correlates of drug‐related dreams in opioid use disorder
Authors: Ellis Jennifer D. , Mayo Jami L. , Finan Patrick H. , Gamaldo Charlene E. , Huhn Andrew S.
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives

Drug‐related dreams are commonly reported by individuals in treatment for substance use disorders, which may be distressing. Existing evidence suggests that dream recollection may be influenced by clinically relevant phenomena, such as opioid use and withdrawal, general sleep disturbance, affective symptoms, and chronic pain. However, very few studies have explored drug‐related dreams among individuals who screened positive for opioid use disorder (OUD).

Methods

Adults recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) who screened positive for OUD (N = 154) completed a questionnaire about drug‐related dreams, as well as measures assessing sleep, opioid use history, stress, anxiety, and chronic pain. χ2 analyses, one‐way analysis of variance, and bivariate correlations, correcting for the false discovery rate, were used as appropriate to explore correlates of (1) recollecting a drug‐related dream, and (2) experiencing post‐dream craving and distress.

Results

Individuals who recollected a past‐week drug‐related dream were more likely to report other recent sleep disturbances, including poorer sleep quality, greater insomnia symptoms, and a higher risk for sleep apnea. Post‐dream craving and distress were both associated with greater insomnia symptoms, poor sleep hygiene behaviors, and greater anxiety symptoms. Individuals who had ever experienced a drug‐related dream (recently, or in their lifetime) were more likely to report a history of severe withdrawal, overdose, and intravenous opioid use.

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

Drug‐related dreams were common among individuals in the present sample and were related to other clinically relevant phenomena. Interventions that treat co‐occurring OUD, pain, sleep symptoms, and affective symptoms may improve overall well‐being in this population.
The “New Urban Poor” Identity: Evidence from China
Authors: Tong Chen
Published: August 2021

Higher education can play a crucial role in shaping one’s social identity, and a diploma from a prestigious institution has a positive effect on a person’s social status. However, the expansion of college enrollment in 1999 in China weakened the capacity of a college diploma to confer on graduates a distinct identity as someone of high standing. For youth from rural backgrounds, higher education was once the most important channel for upward social mobility. As the social value of a college diploma has declined, most college graduates from rural backgrounds have been assigned a new identity: the “new urban poor” (NUP). This article discusses the construction and characteristics of the NUP identity in China, using evidence from television series.
Representation of Caste and Class in Modern Tamil Films
Authors: Rajapandian Radha , Dhanapal Bharathi , Iyyanar Sivakumar
Published: August 2021

Films are fictional accounts that can easily serve as an opiate for an enormous number of people who rely on this medium to help them escape from the world. However, films also influence people's cultural and social values. For example, Indian films constantly depict caste, class, and gender disparities, but they do so in ways that reinforce social stigmas instead of challenging them. This essay examines three Tamil‐language films—Pariyerum Perumal, Asuran, and Karnan—that definitely challenge the status quo. These films reflect the importance of symbolic and cultural markers of discrimination according to caste and class. Through the use of many stereotypical characters, films dealing with social problems demonstrate the ways in which objectification, exclusion, and silence all play a role in perpetuating systems of domination. In this way, Indian films show destructive patterns and shed light on how to stop discriminatory practices.
The Marginalization of Migrant Workers Reflected in Chinese Movies and TV
Authors: Ke Jinhua , Fu Xiaofeng , Hu Rong
Published: August 2021

The new class of migrant workers that emerged in the late 1980s in China has been an important driving force for the modernization and urbanization of China. However, mainly due to the polarization between the rich and the poor, the contrast between urban and rural areas, and the reorganization of social strata caused by the development of the market economy, these migrant workers have been seriously marginalized. Against this social backdrop, a series of contemporary Chinese films and TV plays have attempted to honestly depict the daily lives of migrant workers and have used different perspectives to illustrate the social barriers they face. This has aroused the public’s attention to the problems faced by migrant workers and also provided us with helpful ideas to solve them. This article selects three representative works, one TV play and two movies, to discuss this issue.
Characterizing the stimulation interference in electroencephalographic signals during brain–computer interface–controlled functional electrical stimulation therapy
Authors: Jovanovic Lazar I. , Popovic Milos R. , Marquez‐Chin Cesar
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The integration of brain–computer interface (BCI) and functional electrical stimulation (FES) has brought about a new rehabilitation strategy: BCI‐controlled FES therapy or BCI‐FEST. During BCI‐FEST, the stimulation is triggered by the patient’s brain activity, often monitored using electroencephalography (EEG). Several studies have demonstrated that BCI‐FEST can improve voluntary arm and hand function after an injury, but few studies have investigated the FES interference in EEG signals during BCI‐FEST. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of band‐pass filters, used to extract the BCI‐relevant EEG components, in simultaneously reducing stimulation interference.

Methods

We used EEG data from eight participants recorded during BCI‐FEST. Additionally, we separately recorded the FES signal generated by the stimulator to estimate the spectral components of the FES interference, and extract the noise in time domain. Finally, we calculated signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) values before and after band‐pass filtering, for two types of movements practiced during BCI‐FEST: reaching and grasping.

Results

The SNR values were greater after filtering across all participants for both movement types. For reaching movements, mean SNR values increased between 1.31 dB and 36.3 dB. Similarly, for grasping movements, mean SNR values increased between 2.82 dB and 40.16 dB, after filtering.

Conclusions

Band‐pass filters, used to isolate EEG frequency bands for BCI application, were also effective in reducing stimulation interference. In addition, we provide a general algorithm that can be used in future studies to estimate the frequencies of FES interference as a function of the selected stimulation pulse frequency, FSTIM, and the EEG sampling rate, FS.
Heterogeneous indications and the need for viability assessment: An international survey on the use of machine perfusion in liver transplantation
Authors: Patrono Damiano , Cussa Davide , Rigo Federica , Romagnoli Renato ,   the Liver Machine Perfusion Survey Group
Published: August 2021

Although machine perfusion (MP) is being increasingly adopted in liver transplantation, indications, timing, and modality are debated. To investigate current indications for MP a web‐based Google Forms survey was launched in January 2021 and addressed to 127 experts in the field, identified among first and corresponding Authors of MP literature in the last 10 years. The survey presented 10 real‐life cases of donor–recipient matching, asking whether the liver would be accepted (Q1), whether MP would be used in that particular setting (Q2) and, if so, by which MP modality (Q3) and at what timing during preservation (Q4). Respondents could also comment on each case. The agreement was evaluated using Krippendorff's alpha coefficient. Answers from 39 (30.1%) participants disclosed significant heterogeneity in graft acceptance, MP indications, technique, and timing. Agreement between respondents was generally poor (Q1, α = 0.11; Q2, α = 0.14; Q3, α = 0.12, Q4, α = 0.11). Overall, respondents preferred hypothermic MP and an end‐ischemic approach in 56.3% and 81.1% of cases, respectively. A total of 18 (46.2%) participants considered only one MP approach, whereas 17 (43.6%) and 3 (7.7%) considered using alternatively 2 or 3 different techniques. Of 38 comments, 17 (44.7%) were about the use of MP for graft viability assessment before implantation. This survey shows considerable variability in MP indications, emphasizing the need to identify scenarios of optimal utilization for each technique. Viability assessment emerges as a fundamental need of transplant professionals when considering the use of MP.
Corruption and social trust: The role of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Thanetsunthorn Namporn
Published: August 2021

The importance and benefits of social trust have widely been recognized in the literature. However, there has been increasing concern about corruption in relation to a decline in social trust, and the role of business in this relationship remains largely unknown. This study aims to examine the linkages among corruption, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and social trust. Using a large sample of 6892 corporations from 33 countries over the period 2010–2014, the results demonstrate that corruption generates a highly eroding effect on social trust, whereas CSR has important implications for promoting trust among people in society. The results further suggest the potential role of CSR in mitigating the eroding effect of corruption on social trust. These results are robust across various methods of estimation, falsification tests, and in a different time period (2017–2020). This study makes several contributions to the literature both theoretically and empirically, and offers meaningful implications for businesses and policymakers.
Towards conjoint solidarity in healthcare
Authors: O'Neill Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Solidarity remains an ambiguous concept despite the long political tradition pertaining to concepts of fraternity, togetherness and collective values or goals. In healthcare ethics, it has been under‐explored, perhaps due to the perception that it opposes individual autonomy. However, even where autonomy is interpreted as a liberal construct, the solidaristic act may be borne out of free choice, rather than stand in opposition to it. To complement the existing scholarship, the concept of ‘conjoint solidarity’ in healthcare is proposed. Conjoint solidarity may be defined as 'the shared goal of all healthcare stakeholders (encapsulating all healthcare practitioners and service users) to accept or adopt a duty to assist one another to achieve improved healthcare outcomes’. The practical application of both medical autonomy and conjoint solidarity is through the process of shared decision making. An epistemic approach may be applied to ‘pool information’ from healthcare practitioners and patients to determine what improved healthcare outcomes are. This collective approach may also serve to address healthcare issues such exclusion, othering, paternalism and conflict of interest. Furthermore, in extending this relational approach to justice, consideration may be given to how improved healthcare may be attained in a manner that allows patients to also play their part. To this end, medical autonomy, conjoint solidarity and relational distributive justice may be considered interdependent constructs, which, when fully utilized, may help improve healthcare.
Reducing subspace models for large‐scale covariance regression
Authors: Franks Alexander M.
Published: August 2021

We develop an envelope model for joint mean and covariance regression in the large p, small n setting. In contrast to existing envelope methods, which improve mean estimates by incorporating estimates of the covariance structure, we focus on identifying covariance heterogeneity by incorporating information about mean‐level differences. We use a Monte Carlo EM algorithm to identify a low‐dimensional subspace that explains differences in both means and covariances as a function of covariates, and then use MCMC to estimate the posterior uncertainty conditional on the inferred low‐dimensional subspace. We demonstrate the utility of our model on a motivating application on the metabolomics of aging. We also provide R code that can be used to develop and test other generalizations of the response envelope model.
Robot‐assisted salvage seminal vesicle excision for isolated recurrence after low‐dose‐rate prostate brachytherapy
Authors: Langley Stephen , Eden Christopher , Perry Matthew , Patil Krishna , Moschonas Dimitrios , Higgins Donna , Deering Claire , Laing Robert , Perna Carla , Khaksar Sara , Uribe‐Lewis Santiago , Uribe Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To report clinical and functional outcomes for patients who have undergone salvage robot‐assisted seminal vesicle excision (RA‐SVE) for the focal treatment of isolated seminal vesical (SV) recurrence after treatment for prostate cancer by low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy.

Patients and Methods

Patients with rising prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) after low‐dose‐rate prostate brachytherapy (LDR‐PB) underwent multi‐parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp‐MRI) of the prostate and 11C‐Choline or 68Ga‐prostate‐specific membrane antigen (68Ga‐PSMA) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan, followed by targeted transperineal biopsy of the prostate and SVs. Isolated SV recurrence were identified in 17 (0.38%) LDR‐PB patients. These 17 patients were offered RA‐SVE.

Results

The median total operative time was 90 min and blood loss 50 mL with no postoperative transfusions required. The median hospital stay was 1 day. No intra‐ or postoperative complications were documented. Continence status was unaffected, no patient required urinary pads. Postoperative pathology confirmed SV invasion in all specimens. Surgical margins were positive in seven (41%) patients. All patients had at least one positive imaging study, although three (18%) mp‐MRI and five (29%) PET/CT assessments were negative. One (6%) pre‐SVE biopsy was also negative but with positive imaging. Salvage SVE failure, defined as three consecutive PSA rises or the need for further treatment, occurred in six patients of whom three had a positive margin. Overall failure‐free survival rates were 86%, 67%, and 53% at 1, 2, and 3 years after SVE, respectively.

Conclusions

Salvage RA‐SVE appears to be a safe focal treatment, with very low morbidity, for patients with localised SV recurrence after LDR‐PB. It permits deferral of androgen deprivation therapy in selected patients. Bilateral SVE is mandatory. This surgical option should be considered in patients with isolated prostate cancer recurrence to the SV.
Prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal pain in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review
Authors: Latiers Fabien , Vandenabeele Marie , Poncin William , Reychler Gregory
Published: August 2021

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to discuss the prevalence and the risk factors of the musculoskeletal pain in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Data source and study selection

Four databases were analysed (Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane and EMBASE). We excluded systematic reviews, meta‐analyses, conference abstracts and case reports. Two authors independently checked for the eligibility of the relevant articles. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. The selection and evaluation of studies followed the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

Twenty studies were retrieved, including from 21 to 7952 patients with COPD. The prevalence of pain was highly heterogeneous across studies: 7–89.7%. Pain was mostly reported in the lumbar (7–69%) and cervical spine (11–48.3%) and the chest (44–82.8%). The main risk factors for developing pain were old age, sex (female), level of physical activity (low) and comorbidities.

Conclusion

Pain is a very common symptom in patients with COPD. Despite this, few clinical trials have investigated the pain. It appears to be located primarily in the lumbar, cervical and thoracic regions and facilitated by being a female, a low level of physical activity, comorbidity(ies) and old age.
RangeShiftR: an R package for individual‐based simulation of spatial eco‐evolutionary dynamics and species' responses to environmental changes
Authors: Malchow Anne‐Kathleen , Bocedi Greta , Palmer Stephen C. F. , Travis Justin M. J. , Zurell Damaris
Published: August 2021

Reliably modelling the demographic and distributional responses of a species to environmental changes can be crucial for successful conservation and management planning. Process‐based models have the potential to achieve this goal, but so far they remain underused for predictions of species' distributions. Individual‐based models offer the additional capability to model inter‐individual variation and evolutionary dynamics and thus capture adaptive responses to environmental change.

We present RangeShiftR, an R implementation of a flexible individual‐based modelling platform which simulates eco‐evolutionary dynamics in a spatially explicit way. The package provides flexible and fast simulations by making the software RangeShifter available for the widely used statistical programming platform R. The package features additional auxiliary functions to support model specification and analysis of results. We provide an outline of the package's functionality, describe the underlying model structure with its main components and present a short example.

RangeShiftR offers substantial model complexity, especially for the demographic and dispersal processes. It comes with elaborate tutorials and comprehensive documentation to facilitate learning the software and provide help at all levels. As the core code is implemented in C++, the computations are fast. The complete source code is published under a public licence, making adaptations and contributions feasible.

The RangeShiftR package facilitates the application of individual‐based and mechanistic modelling to eco‐evolutionary questions by operating a flexible and powerful simulation model from R. It allows effortless interoperation with existing packages to create streamlined workflows that can include data preparation, integrated model specification and results analysis. Moreover, the implementation in R strengthens the potential for coupling RangeShiftR with other models.
Mechanisms of succession between two Silphidae, Necrophila japonica and Nicrophorus concolor on small vertebrate carcasses
Authors: Ito Minobu
Published: August 2021

1. In carrion insect communities, facilitation and processing chain models, in which carcass feeding by early colonists facilitates colonisation by later colonists, have been regarded as the succession mechanisms without sufficient empirical evidence. Although the two models are similar, the processing chain model also assumes a facilitation process independent of early colonists.

2. To reveal the succession mechanisms, field experiments focusing on two silphids, Necrophila japonica, early colonist, and Nicrophorus concolor, later colonist, were conducted.

3. I controlled carcass feeding by Ne. japonica by introducing different numbers of them to carcasses in the field to address three questions: (i) whether the introduction promoted Ni. concolor colonisation, (ii) whether the introduction affected Ni. concolor carcass utilisation, and (iii) whether Ni. concolor colonisation affected the introduced Ne. japonica.

4. Although Ne. japonica introduction hastened colonisation by Ni. concolor, Ni. concolor colonisation did not depend on Ne. japonica, as assumed by the facilitation model because, due to normal carcass decomposition, it occurred on carcasses that Ne. japonica had not fed on, as assumed by the processing chain model.

5. Carcasses with more Ne. japonica feeding was utilised by Ni. concolor for feeding rather than reproduction. After arrival, Ni. concolor excluded Ne. japonica from carcasses.

6. These results suggested that succession between Ne. japonica and Ni. concolor may be driven by the processing chain model and interference competition.
No rest for the weary: Prevalence, impact and nature of sleep problems among young people at risk of psychosis
Authors: Nuzum Eleanor , Hammoud Ryan , Spencer Tom , Akande Isaac , Tognin Stefania
Published: August 2021

Aims

Sleep problems are common in people with a psychosis‐spectrum diagnosis and are associated with worse psychotic symptoms and lower quality of life. Sleep problems are also frequent in individuals at a clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR‐P) however, less is known about the prevalence and association with symptoms in this population. This study investigates the prevalence of sleep problems within CHR‐P individuals and the associations with attenuated positive symptoms, transition to psychosis, time to transition to psychosis and functioning.

Methods

The clinical records interactive search (CRIS) tool was used to carry out a retrospective study of 795 CHR‐P individuals. Sleep problems, subsequent psychotic diagnoses, attenuated positive symptoms and Health of The Nation Outcome Scale scores were extracted. Regression models were used to examine the association between sleep problems and clinical outcomes.

Results

59.5% of CHR‐P individuals experienced sleep problems. Perceptual abnormality severity (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.05–1.48) and frequency (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.08–1.58) as measured by the Comprehensive Assessment of At‐Risk Mental State interview, predicted sleep problems. Sleep problems were not associated with transition to psychosis; however, they were significantly associated with a shorter time to transition in individuals who developed psychosis (HR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.05–1.88) and higher follow‐up Health of the Nation Outcome Scale scores (MD = 2.26, 95% CI = 0.55–3.96).

Conclusions

The high prevalence of sleep problems, along with the association with positive symptoms and worse functioning, highlights the need for effective sleep interventions in this population. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between sleep problems and transition to psychosis.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of responsive neurostimulation for drug‐resistant focal onset epilepsy
Authors: Youngerman Brett E. , Mahajan Uma V. , Dyster Timothy G. , Srinivasan Shraddha , Halpern Casey H. , McKhann Guy M. , Sheth Sameer A.
Published: August 2021

Objective

We evaluated the incremental cost‐effectiveness of responsive neurostimulation (RNS) therapy for management of medically refractory focal onset seizures compared to pharmacotherapy alone.

Methods

We created and analyzed a decision model for treatment with RNS therapy versus pharmacotherapy using a semi‐Markov process. We adopted a public payer perspective and used the maximum duration of 9 years in the RNS long‐term follow‐up study as the time horizon. We used seizure frequency data to model changes in quality of life and estimated the impact of RNS therapy on the annual direct costs of epilepsy care. The model also included expected mortality, adverse events, and costs related to system implantation, programming, and replacement. We interpreted our results against societal willingness‐to‐pay thresholds of $50 000, $100 000, and $200 000 per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY).

Results

Based on three different calculated utility value estimates, the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) for RNS therapy (with continued pharmacotherapy) compared to pharmacotherapy alone ranged between $28 825 and $46 596. Multiple sensitivity analyses yielded ICERs often below $50 000 per QALY and consistently below $100 000/QALY.

Significance

Modeling based on 9 years of available data demonstrates that RNS therapy for medically refractory epilepsy very likely falls within the range of cost‐effectiveness, depending on method of utility estimation, variability in model inputs, and willingness‐to‐pay threshold. Several factors favor improved cost‐effectiveness in the future. Given the increasing focus on delivering cost‐effective care, we hope that this analysis will help inform clinical decision‐making for this surgical option for refractory epilepsy.
Screening for bovine papillomavirus type 13 (BPV13) in a European population of sarcoid‐bearing equids
Authors: Jindra Christoph , Kamjunke Ann‐Kristin , Jones Sarah , Brandt Sabine
Published: August 2021

Background

Bovine papillomavirus types 1 and 2 (BPV1 and BPV2) are accepted aetiological agents of equine sarcoids. Recently, genetically similar BPV13 has been identified from equine sarcoids in Brazil.

Objectives

To determine whether BPV13 DNA can be also found in sarcoid‐affected horses in Austria, and donkeys in Northern Italy and the UK, and should hence be considered in the context of vaccine‐mediated sarcoid prevention.

Study design

Cross sectional study.

Methods

A total of 194 archival, equine and asinine DNA isolates derived from confirmedly delta‐BPV‐positive tumours were subjected to quality control by photometric analysis and equine beta‐actin PCR. Isolates with DNA concentrations >0.9 ng/µl and confirmed PCR‐compatibility (n = 135) were subsequently screened for the presence of BPV13 DNA using BPV13‐specific PCR primers for amplification of a 771 bp region comprising the BPV13 E5 gene.

Results

BPV13 E5 PCR scored negative for all 135 samples. Included positive, negative and no‐template controls yielded anticipated results, thus confirming reliability of obtained data.

Main limitations

Moderate number of tested tumour DNA extracts (n = 135; equivalent to 127 tumour‐affected equids).

Conclusions

Despite its moderate size, the sample was considered representative enough to suggest a low occurrence of BPV13 in Austria, as it randomly comprised equine patients of different breed, age, gender, and European provenience. BPV13 was not associated with tested sarcoids in rescued donkeys originating from several other European countries. Large‐scale BPV13 screenings are necessary to allow for a more precise estimation of the prevalence and distribution of BPV13 infections in European equids suffering from sarcoid disease.
Sex and heredity are determinants of drug intake in a novel model of rat oral oxycodone self‐administration
Authors: Sharp Burt M. , Fan Xinyu , Redei Eva E. , Mulligan Megan K. , Chen Hao
Published: August 2021

The steady rise in prescription opioids such as oxycodone has led to a virulent epidemic of widespread abuse and deaths in the United States; approximately 80% of affected individuals initiate the habitual use of oxycodone by using prescription oral oxycodone. Given the importance of drug pharmacokinetics in determining abuse potential, we designed an oral operant oxycodone self‐administration (SA) procedure in rats to model drug intake by most human users/abusers of oxycodone. Key aspects of the model include limited initial drug intake followed by increasing drug concentrations during extended 4‐h sessions on alternating days. Sex and genetic predisposition are major determinants of human opiate abuse. Therefore, we studied females in seven inbred strains (WLI, WMI, LEW, DSS, F344, BN and SHR) and both sexes in three of these strains. All strains increased intake across serially increasing doses (0.025–0.2 mg/ml; p < 0.001): the range of intakes at the final concentration of oxycodone was 0.72 ± 0.17–4.84 ± 1.42 mg/kg (mean ± SEM) ‐ a 6.7‐fold difference across strains. In LEW, WLI and WMI strains, oxycodone intake increased significantly across all sessions in both sexes. However, in LEW and WMI male rats but not WLI, daily oxycodone intake was significantly lower across all 4‐h sessions than females (p < 0.005). The estimated heritability in oxycodone intake was in the range of 0.21–0.41. In summary, our novel operant oral oxycodone SA model captures the strong abuse potential of oral oxycodone and shows dose, sex and strain‐specific drug intake that is significantly dependent on heredity.
Marcel Odenbach's Angels of History: Cross‐Racial Empathy, Racial Violence, and German Appropriation of Black History
Authors: Layne Priscilla
Published: August 2021

Since the 1960s, identifying with African American struggles against oppression has been an important tool for white Germans to show that they are on the right side of history. This cross‐racial empathy is central to Marcel Odenbach's 1999 video installation, “Ach wie gut daß niemand weiß,” in which he juxtaposes two iconic scenes from the protest movements of the late 1960s: West German student Benno Ohnesorg being shot at the demonstration against the Shah of Iran and Martin Luther King Jr. marching in Selma, Alabama. When read through the lens of Walter Benjamin's “Theses on the Philosophy of History,” “Ach wie gut” has the potential to create a constellation of cultural moments that both promote a multidirectional approach to memory and comment on our present political moment by invoking Benjamin's warning about the violence of making history and the danger of taking a solely historicist perspective. Nevertheless, this potential is in danger of being undermined by Odenbach's failure to recognize his own white privilege and his role as implicated subject vis‐à‐vis these histories of struggle.