bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social work's contribution to integrated primary health care teams in the UK for older adults with complex needs
Authors: Bailey Di , Mutale Gabriella Jennifer
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study examined the contribution of adult social work in integrated teams in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The study design was realist, evaluation research using a mixed methods approach. Data collection methods included interviews and focus groups. Types of social work activities were extracted from older adults' case records and used to calculate costs of care. The presence or absence of indicators of care quality was recorded using the same sample of case records. Data were collected from three primary care teams in which social work was integrated. They were compared with data from three social-work-only teams in the same districts. Narrative data was analysed thematically. Inferential and descriptive statistics were used to compare costs and care quality.

Findings

When social work was embedded or attached to a primary care team, costs of care delivery were lower than in their social-work-only team and more indicators of good quality care outcomes were recorded. Results suggest that embedding social work in integrated primary care teams contributes to cost-effective, quality care for older people if certain conditions for integration are met.

Originality/value

This is the first study to triangulate three data sources to quantify the social work contribution to integrated primary health care teams for older adults.
Understanding flexibility i-deals: integrating performance motivation in the context of Colombia
Authors: Ererdi Can , Wang Siqi , Rofcanin Yasin , Las Heras Mireia
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The goal of this study is to explore the consequences of flexibility i-deals in work and non-work domains of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A matched supervisor–subordinate sample context drawn from a security organization in Chile (N = 3,624 subordinates matched with 107 supervisors) was used which is an unrepresented context in research on i-deals.

Findings

Results from multi-level analyses reveal that the interaction of performance motivation of subordinates and flexibility i-deals matters to performance motivation of subordinates. In turn, performance motivation reduces turnover intentions and work–family conflict of subordinates.

Research limitations/implications

The findings from multi-level structural equation modelling supported our hypotheses and offered interesting implications for the i-deals literature and practitioners. Our findings highlight (1) the importance of being performance driven to obtain flexibility i-deals and (2) the enabling role of performance-oriented supervisors.

Practical implications

Flexibility i-deals act as mechanism that translate the impact of performance motivation on key work and non-work outcomes and can be considered as important HR tools for employees and managers.

Originality/value

This research highlights the importance of performance motivation to obtain i-deals and emphasises that the motivation of supervisors is key to enable these deals. Furthermore, the context of this research, which is a security organisation, is important as research to date has been conducted in Western and corporate settings.
Washable textile embedded solar cells for self-powered wearables
Authors: Ilén Elina , Elsehrawy Farid , Palovuori Elina , Halme Janne
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Solar cells could make textile-based wearable systems energy independent without the need for battery replacement or recharging; however, their laundry resistance, which is prerequisite for the product acceptance of e-textiles, has been rarely examined. This paper aims to report a systematic study of the laundry durability of solar cells embedded in textiles.

Design/methodology/approach

This research included small commercial monocrystalline silicon solar cells which were encapsulated with functional synthetic textile materials using an industrially relevant textile lamination process and found them to reliably endure laundry washing (ISO 6330:2012). The energy harvesting capability of eight textile laminated solar cells was measured after 10–50 cycles of laundry at 40 °C and compared with light transmittance spectroscopy and visual inspection.

Findings

Five of the eight textile solar cell samples fully maintained their efficiency over the 50 laundry cycles, whereas the other three showed a 20%–27% decrease. The cells did not cause any visual damage to the fabric. The result indicates that the textile encapsulated solar cell module provides sufficient protection for the solar cells against water, washing agents and mechanical stress to endure repetitive domestic laundry.

Research limitations/implications

This study used rigid monocrystalline silicon solar cells. Flexible amorphous silicon cells were excluded because of low durability in preliminary tests. Other types of solar cells were not tested.

Originality/value

A review of literature reveals the tendency of researchers to avoid standardized textile washing resistance testing. This study removes the most critical obstacle of textile integrated solar energy harvesting, the washing resistance.
Management and outcomes of hydronephrosis in patients with metastatic extramammary Paget’s disease: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Fusumae Takayuki , Fukuda Keitaro , Hirai Ikuko , Nakamura Yoshio , Kobayashi Kenta , Tanese Keiji , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Iwata Takashi , Funakoshi Takeru
Published: April 2022

Hydronephrosis in extramammary Paget’s disease (EMPD) with distant metastasis (metastatic EMPD) has been observed in medical practice; however, its prognosis remains unclear. Retrospective analyses were performed to assess the management and outcomes of hydronephrosis in metastatic EMPD. During a follow‐up of 44 patients with metastatic EMPD, 13 (30%) developed hydronephrosis. Ten (77%) of the 13 patients with hydronephrosis had impaired renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate: <60 ml/min/1.73 m2), and ureteral stents were placed in every patient with impaired renal function. The stent was placed successfully in all 10 patients, and their renal function recovered within a median period of 7 days. Importantly, each of these patients continued chemotherapy, and none of them experienced stent failure. The median overall survival time (OS) in patients with metastatic EMPD and hydronephrosis (n = 13) was 7.8 months. Treatment for hydronephrosis was not a significant factor for OS, and median OS in patients who underwent ureteral stent replacement (n = 10) was 14.7 months. Collectively, our results indicate that hydronephrosis is relatively common, and ureteral stent placement should be considered in cases of metastatic EMPD with hydronephrosis to maintain renal function and continue chemotherapy toward a better prognosis.
Into the darkness: the ecologies of novel ‘microbial dark matter’ phyla in an Antarctic lake
Authors: Williams Timothy J. , Allen Michelle A. , Panwar Pratibha , Cavicchioli Ricardo
Published: April 2022

Uncultivated microbial clades (‘microbial dark matter’) are inferred to play important but uncharacterized roles in nutrient cycling. Using Antarctic lake (Ace Lake, Vestfold Hills) metagenomes, 12 metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs; 88%–100% complete) were generated for four ‘dark matter’ phyla: six MAGs from Candidatus Auribacterota (=Aureabacteria, SURF‐CP‐2), inferred to be hydrogen‐ and sulfide‐producing fermentative heterotrophs, with individual MAGs encoding bacterial microcompartments (BMCs), gas vesicles, and type IV pili; one MAG (100% complete) from Candidatus Hinthialibacterota (=OLB16), inferred to be a facultative anaerobe capable of dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia, specialized for mineralization of complex organic matter (e.g. sulfated polysaccharides), and encoding BMCs, flagella, and Tad pili; three MAGs from Candidatus Electryoneota (=AABM5‐125‐24), previously reported to include facultative anaerobes capable of dissimilatory sulfate reduction, and here inferred to perform sulfite oxidation, reverse tricarboxylic acid cycle for autotrophy, and possess numerous proteolytic enzymes; two MAGs from Candidatus Lernaellota (=FEN‐1099), inferred to be capable of formate oxidation, amino acid fermentation, and possess numerous enzymes for protein and polysaccharide degradation. The presence of 16S rRNA gene sequences in public metagenome datasets (88%–100% identity) suggests these ‘dark matter’ phyla contribute to sulfur cycling, degradation of complex organic matter, ammonification and/or chemolithoautotrophic CO2 fixation in diverse global environments.
A comparison of patient‐reported mental health outcomes for the Department of Veterans Affairs' regional telehealth and Community Care Programs
Authors: Fortney John C. , Carey Evan P. , Rajan Suparna , Rise Peter J. , Gunzburger Elise C. , Felker Bradford L.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To compare patient‐reported outcomes for veterans with limited access to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) mental health services referred to the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP) or regional telehealth Clinical Resource Hubs‐Mental Health (CRH‐MH).

Data Sources

This national evaluation used secondary data from the VA Corporate Data Warehouse, chart review, and primary data collected by baseline survey between October 8, 2019 and May 27, 2020 and a 4‐month follow‐up survey.

Study Design

A quasi‐experimental longitudinal study design was used to sample 545 veterans with VCCP or CRH‐MH referrals for new treatment episodes. Patient‐reported outcomes included symptom severity, perceived access, utilization, and patient‐centeredness.

Data Collection

During the baseline and follow‐up surveys, all veterans were administered the Patient Health Questionnaire‐8 (PHQ‐8) to assess depression severity, and veterans with a provisional diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were also administered the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5) to assess PTSD symptom severity. The 4‐month follow‐up survey also asked about perceived access using the Perceived Access Inventory, the number of encounters, and patient‐centeredness of care using the Patient‐Centered Care portion of the Veterans Satisfaction Survey.

Principal Findings

Results indicated that compared to VCCP consults, veterans with CRH‐MH consults reported 0.65 (CI95 = 0.51–0.83, p < 0.01) times the number of barriers to care, but a non‐significant lower number of encounters (−0.792, CI95 −2.221, 0.636, p = 0.28). There was no significant (p = 0.24) difference in satisfaction with patient‐centeredness, with both groups “agreeing” on average to positively worded questions. Veterans in both groups experienced little improvement in depression or PTSD symptom severity, and there were no clinically meaningful differences between groups.

Conclusions

Overall findings indicate that the CRH‐MH and VCCP generate similar patient‐reported outcomes. Future research should compare the quality and cost of care delivered by the VCCP and CRH‐MH programs.
Uptake of hepatitis C virus treatment in a multi‐state Medicaid population, 2013–2017
Authors: Clements Karen M. , Kunte Parag S. , Clark Melissa A. , Gurewich Deborah , Greenwood Bonnie C. , Sefton Laura , Pratt Carter , Person Sharina D. , Wessolossky Miryea A.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To examine trends in the direct acting antiviral (DAA) uptake in a multi‐state Medicaid population with hepatitis C virus (HCV) prior to and after ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) approval and changes in prior authorization (PA) requirements.

Data Sources

Analyses utilized enrollment, medical, and pharmacy claims in four states, December 2013–December 2017.

Study Design

An interrupted time series examined trends in uptake (1+ claim for a DAA) before and after two events: LDV/SOV approval (October 2014) and lifting of PA requirements for 40% of members (July 2016). Analyses were also performed in subgroups defined by the number and dates of change in PA requirements in members' Medicaid plans.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Members aged 18–64 years with an ICD code for HCV were included in the sample from diagnosis date until treatment initiation or Medicaid disenrollment.

Principal Findings

The annual sample size ranged from 38,302 to 45,005 with approximately 30% ages 18–34 years and 40% female. In December 2013, 0.08% was treated, rising to 0.74% in December 2017 (p < 0.001). Uptake increased from 0.34%/month in October 2014 to 0.70%/month after LDV/SOF approval, (p < 0.001), and increased relative to the pre‐LDV/SOV trend through June 2016 (p = 0.04). Uptake increased to 1.18%/month after PA change, (p < 0.001) and remained flat through 2017 (p = 0.64). Cumulatively, 20.1% were treated by December 2017. In plans with few/no requirements through 2017, uptake increased to 1.19%/month after LDV/SOF approval (p < 0.001) and remained flat through 2017 (p = 0.11), with 22.2% cumulatively treated. Among plans that lifted PA requirements from three to zero in mid‐2016, uptake did not increase after LDV/SOF approval (p = 0.36) but did increase to 1.41%/month (p < 0.001) after PA change, with 18.1% cumulatively treated.

Conclusions

HCV Treatment increased through 2017. LDV/SOF approval and lifting PA requirements led to an increase in uptake followed by flat monthly utilization. Cumulative uptake was higher in plans with few/no PA requirements relative to those with three requirements through mid‐2016.
Functional dimension reduction based on fuzzy partition and transformation
Authors: Liang Beiting , Gao Taoxuan , Bai Defa , Wang Guochang
Published: April 2022

Functional sliced inverse regression (FSIR) is the among most popular methods for the functional dimension reduction. However, FSIR has two evident shortcomings. On the one hand, the number of samples in each slice must not be too small and selecting a suitable S is difficult, particularly for data with small sample size, where S indicates the number of slices. On the other hand, FSIR and its related methods are well‐known for their poor performance when the link function is an even (or symmetric) dependency. To solve these two problems, we propose three new types of estimation methods. First, we propose the functional fuzzy inverse regression (FFIR) method based on a fuzzy partition. Compared with FSIR that uses a hard partition, the fuzzy partition uses all samples with different weights to estimate the mean in each slice. Therefore, FFIR exhibits good performance even for data with small sample size. Second, we suggest two transformation approaches, namely, FSIRR and FSIRP, avoiding the symmetric dependency between the response and the predictor. FSIRR eliminates the symmetric dependency by transforming the response variable, while FSIRP overcomes the symmetric dependency by transforming the functional predictor. Third, we propose the FFIRR and FFIRP methods by combining the advantages of FFIR and two transformation methods. FFIRR and FFIRP replace the FSIR method on the transformation data via FFIR. Simulation and real data analysis show that three types of proposed methods exhibit better performance than FSIR in terms of the estimation accuracy and stability.
Thromboembolic events in Janus kinase inhibitors: A pharmacovigilance study from 2012 to 2021 based on the Food and Drug Administration's Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Dong Ziwei , Ye Xiaofei , Chen Chenxin , Wang Rui , Liu Dongxu , Xu Xiao , Zhou Xiang , He Jia
Published: April 2022

Aims

As a new type of drug developed rapidly in recent years, Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKinibs) have caused controversy due to possible adverse reactions of thromboembolism. The aim of this study was to analyse and evaluate the association between thromboembolic events and the use of JAKinibs, on the base of the latest data in the Food and Drug Administration's Adverse Event Reporting System.

Methods

A disproportionality analysis was conducted, utilizing data from 1 January 2012 to 30 September 2021 in the FAERS. For each drug‐adverse event pair, reporting odds ratio (ROR) and information components (IC) were calculated.

Results

A total of 15 positive safety signals were detected within the FAERS: ruxolitinib was significantly associated with portal vein thrombosis (ROR025 = 3.49, IC025 = 1.50); tofacitinib immediate release with pulmonary embolism (ROR025 = 2.09, IC025 = 1.02) and thrombosis (ROR025 = 1.15, IC025 = 0.18); tofacitinib extended release with pulmonary embolism (ROR025 = 1.27, IC025 = 0.26) and thrombosis (ROR025 = 1.29, IC025 = 0.33); baricitinib with deep vein thrombosis (ROR025 = 8.27, IC025 = 3.00), portal vein thrombosis (ROR025 = 1.97, IC025 = 0.63), pulmonary embolism (ROR025 = 7.90, IC025 = 2.94), thrombosis (ROR025 = 2.04, IC025 = 0.93) and venous thrombosis (ROR025 = 2.15, IC025 = 0.81); upadacitinib with pulmonary embolism (ROR025 = 1.25, IC025 = 0.25), pulmonary thrombosis (ROR025 = 5.32, IC025 = 2.33) and thrombosis (ROR025 = 2.72, IC025 = 1.39); and filgotinib with pulmonary embolism (ROR025 = 4.83, IC025 = 2.10). In the analysis of the time to onset of thromboembolic events, no obviously recognizable pattern was found. Several safety signals with embolic and thrombotic events (Standardised MedDRA Query) were found in the study.

Conclusion

This pharmacovigilance study covered 8 types of JAKinib that are already on the market, and provided new safety signals based on past safety information. Some of these signals still need more medical evidence.
Generic romiplostim for children with persistent or chronic immune thrombocytopenia: Experience from a tertiary care centre in North India
Authors: Mareddy Chandana , Kalra Manas , Sachdeva Anupam
Published: April 2022

Thrombopoietin receptor agonists are important therapeutic option in children with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). We evaluated the response, efficacy, safety of a generic form of romiplostim manufactured in India for treating children with persistent/chronic ITP at our centre. Study of 45 children with persistent/chronic ITP was conducted of which 5 discontinued and 40 were included between 2019‐2020. Patients received romiplostim for 20 weeks, at a dose of 5 mcg/kg/week. Platelet count at week 1, 3, 20 and 26 was assessed. Predesigned algorithm was used for dose adjustment. After 20 weeks, patients who had platelet count of 50 × 109/L or above were tapered off medication and monitored till 26 weeks. Median platelet count at enrolment was 11 x 109/L (IQR 23 X 109/L). 13/40 children had received >/= three lines of prior ITP therapy. Platelet response (platelet count rise to more than 50×109/L without rescue medications) observed in 26 (65%) patients at week 20. Rescue medication was used in 12/40 children. Sustained platelet response after tapering and stopping romiplostim observed in 22/40 children. No adverse events were considered serious or led to discontinuation of treatment. Our data demonstrated generic romiplostim is well tolerated and efficacious in children with persistent/chronic ITP.
PAX5 alterations in an infant case of KMT2A‐rearranged leukemia with lineage switch
Authors: Nakajima Koji , Kubota Hirohito , Kato Itaru , Isobe Kiyotaka , Ueno Hiroo , Kozuki Kagehiro , Tanaka Kuniaki , Kawabata Naoko , Mikami Takashi , Tamefusa Kosuke , Nishiuchi Ritsuo , Saida Satoshi , Umeda Katsutsugu , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Adachi Souichi , Takita Junko
Published: April 2022

Lineage switch is a rare event at leukemic relapse. While mostly known to occur in KMT2A‐rearranged infant leukemia, the underlying mechanism is yet to be depicted. This case report describes a female infant who achieved remission of KMT2A‐MLLT3‐rearranged acute monocytic leukemia, but 6 months thereafter, relapsed as KMT2A‐MLLT3‐rearranged acute lymphocytic leukemia. Whole exome sequencing of the bone marrow obtained pre‐post lineage switch revealed two somatic mutations of PAX5 in the relapse sample. These two PAX5 alterations were suggested to be loss of function, thus to have played the driver role in the lineage switch from acute monocytic leukemia to acute lymphocytic leukemia.
Effects of spatial boundaries on episodic memory development
Authors: Rah Yu Jin , Kim Jiyun , Lee Sang Ah
Published: April 2022

Children's spatial mapping starts out particularly sensitive to 3D wall‐like boundaries and develops over early childhood to flexibly include other boundary types. This study investigated whether spatial boundaries influence children's episodic memory, as in adults, and whether this effect is modulated by boundary type. Eighty‐one Korean children (34 girls, 36–84 months old) re‐enacted a sequence of three discrete hiding events within a space containing one of three boundaries: 3D wall, aligned objects, or 2D line. Children's memory of events occurring on one side of the boundary developed earlier than those that crossed the boundary. At first, this interaction only applied to the 3D wall and extended to other boundary types with age, suggesting that children's changing spatial representations influence their episodic memory development.
A tale of two tumours
Authors: Ralph James , Culligan Kevin , McKenna Dermot
Published: April 2022

Dual epidermal neoplasms are rare. There are several different types, including a combined tumour, which is highlighted in this case. Several theories exist to the origin of these tumours. They are best appreciated with immunohistochemistry staining. Treatment is by excision.
What is the optimal prophylaxis against postoperative deep vein thrombosis in the living donor to avoid complications and enhance recovery? – A systematic review of the literature and expert panel recommendations
Authors: Ruffolo Luis I. , Levstik Mark , Boehly Jen , Spiro Michael , Raptis Dimitri A. , Liu Linda , Hernandez‐Alejandro Roberto ,   the ERAS4OLT.org Working Group
Published: April 2022

Background

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis is often employed to prevent the potentially serious complication of pulmonary embolism (PE). However, little data exist regarding the optimal DVT prophylaxis strategy for living donors undergoing hepatectomy for living donor liver transplantation. Here we present our consensus statement on DVT prophylaxis for living donors undergoing hepatectomy.

Objectives

To identify the optimal DVT prophylaxis strategy, which reduces, risk of complications in living liver donors, and enhances recovery.

Methods

Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines and recommendations using the GRADE approach derived from an international expert panel. Of interest was the impact of DVT prophylaxis or lack of prophylaxis on living donors undergoing hepatectomy and subsequent rates of DVT, PE, and hemorrhagic complications. PROSPERO ID: CRD42021260720

Results

The review of the literature identified three studies, which directly addressed thrombogenesis following living donor hepatectomy. All studies were observational in nature without randomization into treatments. The rate of DVT‐PE in unscreened living donors with chemoprophylaxis was 5%. Furthermore, thromboelastography of living donors demonstrated sustained hypercoagulability for 50% of donors 10 days postoperatively. In line with CHEST (The American College of Chest Physicians) guidelines of chemoprophylaxis for surgical procedures with 3% or greater risk of DVT‐PE, we conclude that a minimum of 10 days of postoperative chemoprophylaxis with unfractionated heparin or low‐molecular weight heparin is recommended for patients undergoing living donor hepatectomy. The quality of evidence (QOE) for these recommendations based on the GRADE criteria is low, with a Grade of Recommendation of Strong.

Conclusions

Chemoprophylaxis for DVT following living donor hepatectomy is associated with reduced adverse thrombotic events, (Quality of Evidence; Low | Grade of Recommendation; Strong).
Multimodality imaging of multiple giant right coronary artery aneurysms combined with anomalous aortic origin of left coronary artery
Authors: Cai Yu , Shu Shenglei , Xie Mingxing , Yang Yali
Published: April 2022

We report a rare case of multiple giant coronary artery aneurysms combined with anomalous aortic origin of left coronary artery in a 30‐years old man precisely diagnosed by multimodality imaging, including echocardiography, coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA), cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and selective coronary angiography. The imaging results were finally confirmed by surgery. We present the clinical value of multimodality imaging in diagnosing coronary artery aneurysm and anomalous origin.
Comparison of left ventricular subclinical systolic dysfunction between hemodialysis patients and renal transplant recipients using real time three‐dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Ekmekci Cenk , Cabuk Ali Kemal
Published: April 2022

Aims

The relationship between chronic kidney disease and development of heart failure is a well‐known clinical entity. Systolic dyssynchrony index (SDI_16) is a new diagnostic tool for detection of subclinical left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction by using three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE). We aimed to investigate this parameter in patients with end‐stage renal disease who were receiving hemodialysis and patients with renal transplant compared to healthy control subjects.

Material and Methods

Forty‐five hemodialysis patients, 45 patients with renal transplant and 45 age‐sex matched healthy control subjects included in the study. All participants were evaluated with 3DE in the interdialytic phase for measurement of LV volumes, ejection fraction and SDI_16 parameter.

Results

Both LV diastolic and systolic volumes were significantly higher in hemodialysis group compared to renal transplant group and healthy controls, but this finding did not translate to a statistically significant difference for LVEF measurements between groups (58.71 ± 3.53 vs. 57.17 ± 2.97 vs. 59.23 ± 3.26, p = .16 for renal transplant and hemodialysis and healthy control groups, respectively). Mean value of SDI_16 parameters was significantly higher in hemodialysis group compared to renal transplant group (7.93 ± 2.50 vs. 3.72 ± 1.71, p < .001) and healthy controls (7.93 ± 2.50 vs. 3.00 ± .99, p < .001); whereas, it was similar between renal transplant group and control subjects (3.72 ± 1.71 vs. 3.00 ± .99, p = .10).

Conclusion

SDI_16 was significantly higher in hemodialysis patients compared to patients with renal transplant and healthy controls.
Mitral valve Doppler for cardiac output assessment in preterm neonates
Authors: Nitzan Itamar , Hammerman Cathy , Menahem Samuel , Sehgal Arvind
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Cardiac output (CO) assessment in neonates is commonly done by echocardiography. It is unclear which is the best site to measure the left ventricular (LV) outflow tract for CO assessment (the aortic valve [AV] aortic sinus [AS] or the sinotubular junction [STJ]). In the normal heart, the blood flow entering the LV equals the blood ejected from it. Therefore, measuring the blood flow into the LV through the mitral valve (MV) is an alternative way to measure CO.

Methods

In stable preterm infants the MV CO was compared with the right ventricular (RV) CO and the three ways to measure LV CO, in 30 stable preterm neonates. Interobserver variability for MV CO was established.

Results

In the 30 neonates studied, MV CO was best correlated and had a minimal bias to the RV CO and LV CO measured at the STJ. Left ventricular CO measured at the AV and AS had significant bias relative to RV CO and MV CO. MV CO inter‐observer variability was similar to other echocardiographic CO assessment methods.

Conclusion

MV CO may be used as an alternative way to assess CO. The STJ may be the optimal site to measure LV outflow tract.
Inverse size‐dependent phenology of female spruce budworms along reproductive and behavioral classes: an empirical study
Authors: Rhainds Marc , Delisle Johanne , Boulanger Yan , Labrecque Alain
Published: April 2022

The incidence and causality of inverse size‐dependent phenology was investigated for spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumiferana (Clemens) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), in part due to large sample size [>22000 feral females with known body size (wing area) and timing of emergence/occurrence]. Data collected in three Canadian provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec) between 1976 and 2019 included a wide array of sampling procedures grouped along gradients of reproductive classes. (1) For resident females of local origin (collected as pupae and allowed to emerge in the laboratory), body size declined over time at seven of seven sites, indicative of inverse size‐dependent timing of emergence. (2) Females foraging on trees (collected by fogging host trees or with sweep nets) exhibited declines in body size over time at five of five sites. (3) For behaviorally active females collected at traps (malaise, light, and canopy traps), inverse size‐dependent phenology of flight was observed at 20 of 23 combination of trap types/sites; partition of variance indicated limited variation in body size as a function of trap type, thus all inflight females were pooled in subsequent analyses. (4) In contrast to other sampling procedures, dead females collected on drop trays exhibited size‐dependent timing of mortality at only one of five sites. The article includes first body size measurements of migrant females captured in the troposphere with a kite balloon; as with other sampling procedures, body size decreased during the interval of sampling. Ongoing studies combining measurements of body size and dry weight of females (wing load) aim at inferring consequences of inverse size‐dependent phenology on reproduction and migration of budworms, including linkages with population dynamics.
Poverty, pollution, and mortality: The 1918 influenza pandemic in a developing German economy
Authors: Franke Richard
Published: April 2022

The paper provides a detailed analysis of excess mortality during the ‘Spanish Flu’ in a developing German economy and the effect of poverty and air pollution on pandemic mortality. The empirical analysis is based on a difference‐in‐differences approach using annual all‐cause mortality statistics at the parish level in the Kingdom of Württemberg. The paper complements the existing literature on urban pandemic severity with comprehensive evidence from mostly rural parishes. The results show that middle‐ and high‐income parishes had a significantly lower increase in mortality rates than low‐income parishes. Moreover, the mortality rate during the 1918 influenza pandemic was significantly higher in highly polluted parishes compared with least polluted parishes. Furthermore, the paper provides a detailed description of mortality statistics in Württemberg and new excess mortality rate estimates for Germany and its states.
The Union shall promote social justice
Authors: Schemmel Christian
Published: April 2022

What would it take for the European Union (EU) to be in the service of social justice as much as it can be required to be? This paper argues that the EU has a duty to further social justice within its member states, and that its main avenue for discharging this duty should be to incentivise and facilitate the adoption, extension, and maintenance of just welfare policies, which, so it suggests, consist of universal and egalitarian such policies. This proposals contrasts both with a more integrationist approach, according to which welfare policies within the EU should be, to a significant extent, supranationalised; and with an internationalist proposal, according to which the EU should mainly preserve, and extend, member states' freedom to act in a globalised world economy, and generate economic benefits which these states might, or might not, employ to further internal justice. The argument of the paper demonstrates that this proposal has important advantages over these two rival approaches, and that a principled and plausible justification for it is to be found within an extended internationalist framework for theorising social justice. It concludes by considering what kind of EU policies its adoption might call for, in practice.
Transition into marriage: A test of relational uncertainty, turbulence, dyadic synchrony, and cohabitation in newlyweds
Authors: Blalock Jamie , Bartle‐Haring Suzanne
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study explored the associations among relational uncertainty, relational turbulence, dyadic synchrony, and cohabitation status among newlyweds.

Background

Marriage is a highly desired institution across racial groups, gender identities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic status. However, divorce rates remain high and marital problems early in the relationship are more predictive of dissolution.

Methods

We developed a preliminary instrument to test dyadic synchrony, an outcome variable within relational turbulence theory (RTT). EFA results suggested a two‐factor measure of dyadic synchrony: conversational comfort and ease and communication coordination and authenticity. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to investigate direct and indirect theoretical associations among relational uncertainty, relational turbulence, and dyadic synchrony. An online survey was administered to a sample of newlyweds (N = 234) through Amazon's MTurk.

Results

Results indicated that relational uncertainty and turbulence, predicted dyadic synchrony; turbulence also mediated these associations. Finally, results indicated no differences between premarital and marital cohabiters' experiences of relational uncertainty, turbulence, and dyadic synchrony.

Conclusion

The study results offer theoretical and methodological insights as well as translational implications for newlyweds, family systems, and clinicians.

Implications

If couples and their support systems view relational uncertainty and turbulence as a likelihood, this could help normalize their experiences and remove feelings of worry, shame, and guilt. Moreover, clinicians working with partners in premarital counseling or couples therapy could incorporate these findings into treatment such that partners could better adjust expectations, build awareness, and develop conflict resolution and strong communication skills.
The effect of the COVID‐19 social distancing measures on Turkish women's mental well‐being and burnout levels: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tekkas Kerman Kader , Albayrak Selvinaz , Arkan Gulcihan , Ozabrahamyan Serena , Beser Ayse
Published: April 2022

Lockdown and social distancing measures during the COVID‐19 pandemic increase women's responsibilities and influence their mental health. This study aimed to assess the effect of COVID‐19 social distancing measures on mental well‐being and burnout levels of women using an online cross‐sectional survey in Turkey. The Warwick‐Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale, The Burnout Measure, and Sociodemographic form were used in this study. All analyses were performed on a sample of 438 women aged between 18 and 65. The mean score of mental well‐being was 47.86 (SD = 10.04) and the mean score of burnout was 3.86 (SD = 1.16). Being younger than 30 years old (t = 2.14, P = 0.033), having undergraduate education or above (F = 5.09, P = 0.007), part‐time working (F = 5.39, P = 0.005), attending to school (t = 2.68, P = 0.008), having COVID‐19 symptoms (t = 6.01, P < 0.001), and perceiving spousal emotional support (F = 3.47, P = 0.016) were the factors associated with high burnout. Being older than 30 years old (z = −3.11, P = 0.002), full time working (H = 11.96, P = 0.003), not attending to school (z = −2.09, P = 0.036), perceiving spousal emotional (H = 13.22, P = 0.004), or social (H = 13.11, P = 0.004) support were the factors associated with higher mental well‐being. Age (β = −0.03, P = 0.001), having two or more children (β = 0.42, P = 0.015), and perceiving COVID‐19 symptoms (β = −0.73, P < 0.001) were the predictors of women’s burnout. This study shows that mental well‐being and burnout levels of women in Turkey have been considerably affected as a result of social distancing measures taken with the first wave of the pandemic. Findings signal the immediate need for targeted mental health nursing interventions. Therefore, technology‐based mental health support programmes are recommended to be designed and utilized by mental health nurses.
Studying experimentally and numerically the rate of moisture loss in conditioned alfalfa using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Dana Maryam , Ahmadi Moghaddam Parviz
Published: April 2022

The nutritional value and protein content play a key role in alfalfa for animal and human consumption; hence, the drying method is highly significant. An innovative combination method, including drying under natural convection and different conditioning intensities of alfalfa stem, were evaluated in this study. The conditioning intensities including three intensities of 3‐, 8‐, and 13‐impacts were selected considering the physics of the alfalfa stems. Computational fluid dynamics method and porous media model were used to simulate the drying process of alfalfa and the drying kinetics of alfalfa was also studied in three conditions. Fine quad‐type meshes were used adjacent to the stem wall to achieve more accurate results. Also, the maximum leaves‐stem separation forces were obtained by a texture analyzer at different conditioning intensities and different times. The leaf‐stem separation force was significantly reduced by decreasing humidity and increasing conditioning intensity. The simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data with a maximum error less than 9% in all conditioning levels. Finally, the 8‐impacts conditioning level has the best condition among the studied levels in terms of drying kinetics and studying fouling at different intensities of conditioning.

Practical Applications

Moisture content in foods such as forages is one of the factors affecting crop losses during harvest. Uniform stem‐leave moisture is an impressive factor in reducing losses. Therefore, using new numerical methods such as computational fluid dynamics with experimental validation can improve crop fouling by obtaining optimal moisture.
A tale of two tissues: Probing gene expression in a complex insect‐induced gall
Authors: Schultz Jack C. , Stone Graham N.
Published: April 2022

Plant galls are novel and sometimes dramatic plant organs whose development is initiated and controlled by parasitic microbes, nematodes, insects and mites. For arthropods, galls provide relative safety from enemies and abiotic stresses while providing nutrition. Galls are formed entirely by the plant, whose transcriptional pathways are modified and coopted to produce a structure specific to the galler species; they comprise a classic example of Dawkins’ “extended phenotype”. Arthropod‐elicited galls are unique in that they are often anatomically complex (Figure 1a), with multiple differentiated tissue types (Figure 1b). A growing number of investigators have studied changes in hostplant gene expression to understand arthropod gall development. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Martinson et al. (2021) report using RNA sequencing to explore tissue‐specific gene expression associated with anatomical and functional gall complexity, demonstrating for the first time that gall tissues are as different transcriptionally as they are anatomically.
Philosophy and literature: The no‐gap theory
Authors: Snævarr Stefán
Published: April 2022

The concepts of philosophy and imaginative literature have unclear boundaries and blurred edges; they can hardly be defined essentially in any fruitful manner. But we can talk of indicators of a text being philosophical or literary. The concepts of philosophy and literature are contestable. Further, there are no clear‐cut signs of cognitive progress in philosophy and literature. It is also far from certain that there are any philosophical or literary truths. Actually, works of philosophy and literature deal more in possibilities than in actualities. In addition, fictional narratives play an important role in both philosophical and literary texts. Moreover, philosophy and literature share a tendency to thematize themselves, reflect on themselves. If, however, argumentation were to disappear entirely from all philosophical texts, while every literary text is dominated by argumentative discourse, then the concepts of literature and philosophy would become almost devoid of content. Despite this, there is no gap between philosophy and imaginative literature.
Viewing stromal vascular fraction de novo vessel formation and association with host microvasculature using the rat mesentery culture model
Authors: Hodges Nicholas A. , Lampejo Arinola O. , Shang Hulan , Rowe Gabrielle , LeBlanc Amanda Jo , Katz Adam J. , Murfee Walter L.
Published: April 2022

Objective

The objective of the study is to demonstrate the innovation and utility of mesenteric tissue culture for discovering the microvascular growth dynamics associated with adipose‐derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) transplantation. Understanding how SVF cells contribute to de novo vessel growth (i.e., neovascularization) and host network angiogenesis motivates the need to make observations at single‐cell and network levels within a tissue.

Methods

Stromal vascular fraction was isolated from the inguinal adipose of adult male Wistar rats, labeled with DiI, and seeded onto adult Wistar rat mesentery tissues. Tissues were then cultured in MEM + 10% FBS for 3 days and labeled for BSI‐lectin to identify vessels. Alternatively, SVF and tissues from green fluorescent‐positive (GFP) Sprague Dawley rats were used to track SVF derived versus host vasculature.

Results

Stromal vascular fraction‐treated tissues displayed a dramatically increased vascularized area compared to untreated tissues. DiI and GFP+ tracking of SVF identified neovascularization involving initial segment formation, radial outgrowth from central hub‐like structures, and connection of segments. Neovascularization was also supported by the formation of segments in previously avascular areas. New segments characteristic of SVF neovessels contained endothelial cells and pericytes. Additionally, a subset of SVF cells displayed the ability to associate with host vessels and the presence of SVF increased host network angiogenesis.

Conclusions

The results showcase the use of the rat mesentery culture model as a novel tool for elucidating SVF cell transplant dynamics and highlight the impact of model selection for visualization.
Optimizing techniques for measuring anal resting and squeeze pressures with high‐resolution manometry
Authors: Oblizajek Nicholas R. , Deb Brototo , Kathavarayan Ramu Shivabalan (Shiva) , Chunawala Zainali , Feuerhak Kelly , Bailey Kent R. , Bharucha Adil E.
Published: April 2022

Background

The optimal methods for measuring and analyzing anal resting and squeeze pressure with high‐resolution manometry (HRM) are unclear.

Methods

Anal resting and squeeze pressures were measured with HRM in 90 healthy women, 35 women with defecatory disorders (DD), and 85 with fecal incontinence (FI). Pressures were analyzed with Manoview™ software and a customized approach. Resting pressures measured for 20, 60, and 300 s were compared. During the squeeze period, (3 maneuvers, 20 s each), the squeeze increment, which was averaged over 5, 10, 15, and 20 s, and squeeze duration were evaluated.

Results

Compared to healthy women, the anal resting pressure, squeeze pressure increment, and squeeze duration were lower in FI (p ≤ 0.04) but not in DD. The 20, 60, and 300 s resting pressures were strongly correlated (concordance correlation coefficients = 0.96–0.99) in healthy and DD women. The 5 s squeeze increment was the greatest; 10, 15, and 20 s values were progressively lower (p < 0.001). The squeeze pressure increment and duration differed (p < 0.01) among the three maneuvers in healthy and DD women but not in FI women. The upper 95th percentile limit for squeeze duration was 19.5 s in controls, 19.9 s in DD, and 19.3 s in FI. Adjusted for age, resting pressure, and squeeze duration, a greater squeeze increment was associated with a lower risk of FI versus health (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.94–0.97).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that anal resting and squeeze pressures can be accurately measured over 20 s. In most patients, one squeeze maneuver is probably sufficient.
Oral amoxicillin/clavulanate for the prevention of bacteremia following dental extractions
Authors: Diniz Freitas Márcio , Álvarez Fernández Maximiliano , Vasallo Vidal Francisco Jose , Limeres Posse Jacobo , Diz Dios Pedro , Fernández Feijoo Javier
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of oral amoxicillin/clavulanate (AMX‐CL) for the prevention of bacteremia following dental extractions. The study group (AMX‐CLG) comprised 40 adults requiring dental extractions under general anesthesia who were administered a prophylactic regimen of 1875/125 mg of AMX‐CL orally 1–2 h prior to the surgery. Venous blood samples were collected from each patient at baseline and at 30 s and 15 min after dental extractions. Samples were inoculated into BACTEC Plus culture bottles and processed in the BACTEC 9240. Conventional microbiological techniques were used for subcultures and further identification of the isolated bacteria. The results for the AMX‐CLG were compared with those of a control group (CG; no prophylaxis) and an amoxicillin group (AMXG; 2 g of amoxicillin orally), consisting of randomly selected patients from among those participating in two clinical trials that we have previously published. The prevalence of bacteremia in the CG, AMXG, and AMX‐CLG was 97%, 50%, and 15%, respectively, at 30 s after completing the extractions, and 67%, 10%, and 4% at 15 min, respectively, after the last extraction. The prevalence of bacteremia in the AMXG and the AMX‐CLG at 30 s and at 15 min after completing the extractions was significantly lower than that in the CG (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively; Fisher’s exact test). The prevalence of bacteremia in the AMX‐CLG at 30 s after completing the extractions was significantly lower than that in the AMXG (p < 0.001; Fisher’s exact test). Based in the results of this preliminary study, oral AMX‐CL could be an excellent option for preventing bacteremia secondary to dental procedures in patients at risk.
Animal Models for Postoperative Implant‐Related Spinal Infection
Authors: Wang Yongjie , Che Mingxue , Zheng Zhi , Liu Jun , Ji Xue , Sun Yang , Xin Jingguo , Gong Weiquan , Na Shibo , Jin Yuanzhe , Wang Shuo , Zhang Shaokun
Published: April 2022

Postoperative infections following implant‐related spinal surgery are severe and disastrous complications for both orthopaedic surgeons and patients worldwide. They can cause neurological damage, disability, and death. To better understand the mechanism of these destructive complications and intervene in the process, further research is needed. Therefore, there is an urgent need for efficient, accurate, and easily available animal models to study the pathogenesis of spinal infections and develop new and effective anti‐bacterial methods. In this paper, we provide a general review of the commonly used animal models of postoperative implant‐related spinal infections, describe their advantages and disadvantages, and highlight the significance of correctly choosing the model according to the infection aspect under investigation. These models are valuable tools contributing to the better understanding of postoperative spinal infections and will continue to facilitate the invention of novel preventative and treatment strategies for patients with postoperative spinal infections. However, although they are valid and reproducible in some respects, the current animal models present certain limitations. Future ideal spinal infection animal models may assess the bacterial load of the same animal in real‐time in vivo, and better mimic the human anatomy as well as surgical techniques. Strains other than Staphylococcus aureus account for a large proportion of postoperative spinal infections, and thus, the establishment of models to evaluate other types of microbial infections is expected in the future. Furthermore, novel transgenic models established on advancements in genome editing are also likely to be developed in the future.