bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selecting, Optimizing, and Compensating During Lockdown: How Older Consumers Use Social Networking Services to Improve Social Well-Being
Authors: Wilson-Nash Carolyn , Pavlopoulou Ismini , Wang Zilin
Published: February 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, older consumers have increased their usage of social networking services (SNSs) to avoid social isolation, yet this behavior remains unexplored. Through selective optimization with compensation theory, the authors combine concepts from gerontology and marketing to investigate the following research question: How does older consumers’ usage of SNSs during the pandemic interrelate with the constructs of social well-being? The research draws on qualitative data collated during lockdown in the United Kingdom, including 14 semistructured interviews from participants age 65–80 and six months of netnographic data from an online forum geared toward older people. The findings reveal how older consumers leverage three strategies—selection, optimization, and compensation—to improve their use of SNSs and social interactions during lockdowns. Such behaviors in turn interrelate with the dimensions of social well-being: social acceptance, social integration, social contribution, social actualization, and social coherence. This research contributes to the marketing literature by (1) introducing a framework for transformative SNSs into transformative service research, (2) utilizing theory from gerontology studies to further understand the older consumer, and (3) enhancing the sparse understanding of older consumers’ use of SNSs. Future research directions and managerial implication are suggested for both marketers and developers of SNSs for aging consumers.
Association between the COVID-19 global pandemic and the prevalence of cats presenting with urethral obstruction at two university veterinary emergency rooms
Authors: Finstad Joanna B , Rozanski Elizabeth A , Cooper Edward S
Published: February 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate a potential association between the COVID-19 pandemic stay-at-home orders and the prevalence of emergency room presentations for urethral obstruction (UO) in feline patients.

Methods

Medical records and hospital census were retrospectively searched to identify the total number of cats and total number of male cats with UO presenting to two academic veterinary medical centers from 22 March to 10 August in the years 2018 (123), 2019 (137) and 2020 (175). Cats were grouped based on the year of presentation and the proportions of UO cases relative to all cats presenting to the emergency rooms during the same time frame. Absolute (year of interest – reference year) and relative ([year of interest – reference year]/[reference year]) change in prevalence was determined. These were compared for each year using a two-sample z-test.

Results

The absolute and relative prevalence of UO presentations across the combined population increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic in comparison with 2018 (2.2% and 59%, respectively; P = 0.0003) and 2019 (1.9% and 48%, respectively; P = 0.0021). For the individual institutions, a significant increase in UO presentations was found for institution A when comparing 2020 with both 2018 ( P = 0.0072) and 2019 ( P = 0.0073), but not for institution B ( P = 0.057 and P = 0.18, respectively). No significant differences were found when 2018 and 2019 were compared across the combined population or within institutions.

Conclusions and relevance

The results of this study demonstrate an increased prevalence of UO during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may be related to environmental change and stress imposed by stay-at-home orders.
Prevalence of feline ophthalmic disorders in South Korea: a retrospective study (2009–2021)
Authors: Park Jisoo , Kang Seonmi , Lee Eunji , Seo Kangmoon
Published: February 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical presentation of ocular diseases in cats in South Korea.

Methods

Medical records of cats that were presented for ophthalmology services at Seoul National University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital between 2009 and 2021 were reviewed. Collected data included patient signalment, clinical signs, diagnosed ophthalmic disorders and affected eyes. Odds ratios were calculated when a variable was over-represented.

Results

This study recorded a total of 358 eyes (180 cats). Domestic shorthair (DSH) was the most common breed (42.2%), followed by Persian (13.9%) and Scottish Fold (8.3%); 14 (35.6%) other breeds were recorded. The median age at the first presentation was 3 years (range 2 months to 17 years); the highest percentage of cats presented at <1 year (21.7%). The most affected ocular structure was the cornea (28.5%), followed by the lens (19.9%) and uvea (15.3%). The most frequently reported disorders were corneal ulceration (13.2%), uveitis (11.9%), incipient cataract (11.0%), keratitis (5.4%), secondary glaucoma (5.2%) and sequestrum (4.2%). The Exotic Shorthair breed was significantly over-represented with regard to entropion and periorbital fat prolapse ( P <0.01). The DSH breed was significantly over-represented with regard to eyelid agenesis ( P <0.01).

Conclusions and relevance

This study provides prevalence information for feline ophthalmic diseases and could contribute important data for diagnosing, treating and preventing feline ophthalmic diseases in South Korea.
In a group, “we’re not just a number”: what we learnt from an accidental hybrid health and well-being group programme for First Nations Australians with diabetes
Authors: Freire Kate , Lawrence (Wiradjuri) Jayne
Published: February 2023

First Nations peoples in Australia are disproportionately affected by diabetes. We report on a qualitative evaluation of a healthy lifestyle group programme at an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service. The programme was designed by an Aboriginal Health Worker and took place in a regional community. Yarning interviews of five participants and four facilitators were conducted followed by a collaborative analysis. The group context provided connecting and relationship-building opportunities, allowing participants to feel that they were seen as an individual. The accidental hybrid approach adopted due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown supported transition of healthy activities into the home context while still accessing support and motivation from the group. This paper concluded that the unintentional hybrid programme found promising individual and cross-generational health and wellbeing benefits for First Nations families which suggests that intentional hybrid frameworks may show promise in improving First Nations peoples’ health and well-being.
Parasitic Contamination and Microbiological Quality of Commonly Consumed Fresh Vegetables Marketed in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Asfaw Tsegahun , Genetu Deribew , Shenkute Demissew , Shenkutie Tassew Tefera , Amare Yosef Eshetie , Yitayew Berhanu
Published: February 2023

Parasitic and microbial contamination and the pattern of occurrence of the parasite species depends on weather conditions, socio-cultural conditions, sampling season, analyzed vegetable products, and other factors. Therefore, local assessment of vegetable contamination is crucial for targeted and effective interventions. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to August 2022. A questionnaire was used to assess factors associated with parasite contamination of vegetables during the marketing period. The selected vegetables were purchased and processed for parasite and microbial analysis using standard methods. Finally, all data were summarized and analyzed using SPSS software version 25. A total of 180 vegetable samples were purchased from 180 vendors. This study identified a total of 129 parasites from 180 vegetable samples, with an overall contamination rate of (75; 41.7%). Both protozoa (41; 31.8%) and helminthes (88; 68.2%) were identified from vegetables. Contamination with more than one parasite species was (38; 21.1%). The kind of produce, finger nail status of vendors/sellers, the medium of the display, the type of market and not washed prior to display were significantly associated with parasite contamination. The results also showed that vegetable microbial load for total heterotrophic count, total coliform count, fecal coliform count, yeast count, and mold count was higher in the afternoon than in the morning. To decrease risks to public health, local health authorities and/or market inspectors should establish and implement strategies to reduce contamination such as encouraging specific display medium and washing of vegetables prior to display.
Augmented play: An analysis of augmented reality features in location-based games
Authors: Alha Kati , Leorke Dale , Koskinen Elina , Paavilainen Janne
Published: February 2023

As well as popularising location-based games, Pokémon GO helped connect location-based play with augmented reality (AR), bringing this still-nascent technology into the mainstream. Despite growing use of AR, its long-promised revolutionary potential remains stifled by limited innovation, technical barriers and lack of uptake by users. To explore how AR figures into location-based games, we analysed 11 location-based games with AR features. We identify four overarching ways these games incorporate the physical environment into gameplay: through superimposition, blending, immersivity and materiality. Our findings show that AR is most commonly a gimmick rather than a central element of the game experience and remains substantially hindered by technical glitches and limitations. While more advanced and deeply integrated AR mechanics are emerging, its use in location-based games remain far from the ‘technological imaginaries’ that have accompanied its development as AR continually oscillates between its status as a ‘mundane’ and ‘always-imminent’ technology.
The limits of live fact-checking: Epistemological consequences of introducing a breaking news logic to political fact-checking
Authors: Steensen Steen , Kalsnes Bente , Westlund Oscar
Published: February 2023

This article analyses the novel form of live political fact-checking, as performed by the Norwegian fact-checking organisation Faktisk.no during the Norwegian parliamentary election campaign in 2021. The aim of the study was to investigate the epistemological consequences of introducing a breaking news logic to political fact-checking. Through methods of participatory observation, interviews and textual analysis, the study finds that Faktisk.no used several strategies to bridge the ‘epistemic gap’ between the logics of breaking news and political fact-checking. Combined, these strategies pushed the live fact-checking towards a confirmative epistemology, implying that the live political fact-checking confirmed (1) knowledge already believed to be true and (2) hegemonic perspectives on what constitutes important and reliable information. The findings thereby point to a potential reorientation of political fact-checking from being a critical corrective of political elites to confirming the perspectives and knowledge base of the same elites.
A parametric study to improve first firing cycle emissions of a gasoline direct injection engine during cold start
Authors: Hu Jinghu , Li Delong , Hall Matthew , Matthews Ron , Moilanen Peter , Wooldridge Steven , Yi Jianwen
Published: February 2023

A parametric study was carried out for the first firing cycle of a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter, turbocharged gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine. The primary goal was to see how changes in the fuel injection parameters would affect the GDI engine combustion and emissions for the first four combustion events that constitute the first firing cycle. Experimental studies were carried out with a custom-designed powertrain control system to measure the HC emissions and pressure development for the first firing cycle. The quantitative experimental results were accompanied by simulations of the detailed temporal and spatial fuel concentration profiles using Converge CFD engine simulation software. An alternative calculation method was used to calculate the average combustion equivalence ratio for each of the four cylinders. This method showed that the majority of the cold start HC emissions during the first firing cycle was unburned gasoline and its possible decomposition products, which did not contribute significantly to the combustion and heat release. For the same amount of fuel injected into a cylinder, increased fuel rail pressure resulted in better evaporation and combustion, while slightly increasing the HC emissions during the cold start process. A multiple injection strategy was studied that split the fuel delivery between the intake stroke and the compression stroke with either one or two injections in each of those strokes (two or four injections total). The quadruple injection strategy led to better first cycle combustion, with higher engine IMEP and lower HC emissions. This resulted from a richer fuel mixture in the region near the spark plug due to better fuel evaporation and a better spatial fuel distribution. While increasing fuel rail pressure with either injection strategy failed to significantly lower the HC emissions given the same amount of injected fuel mass, higher rail pressure with the quadruple injection strategy resulted in higher IMEP for the same amount of injected fuel; this may provide the possibility to reduce the total fuel injection mass which may have benefits for both fuel consumption and emissions.
Reliability analysis of complex structures based on Bayesian inference
Authors: Tonelli Daniel , Beltempo Angela , Cappello Carlo , Bursi Oreste S. , Zonta Daniele
Published: February 2023

This paper outlines a logical process based on Bayesian inference to exploit monitoring observations to improve the accuracy in the reliability estimates of civil structures that are retrofitted during their service lives. The proposed approach is particularly effective for complex structures, whose response prediction is affected by structural parameters with significant uncertainty; typical examples are prestressed concrete bridges, heavily influenced by the inherent uncertainties of the material’s creep and shrinkage. The methodology is applied to a real-life complex bridge in Italy, as opposed to academic problems and laboratory tests; the structural model developed for this study includes the original creep law of the Model B3 proposed by Bazant rather than linear approximation or response surfaces. The Bayesian inference is performed using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method, while the reliability assessment utilises importance sampling (IS) for computational efficiency. The results show the extent to which structural health monitoring (SHM) and Bayesian inference reduce the uncertainty in structural parameters and the prediction of the structural demand. At the same time, they increase structural reliability. Particular attention is given to computational effort, structural modelling and algorithm optimisation.
The Light-Dosimeter: A new device to help advance research on the non-visual responses to light
Authors: Stampfli JR , Schrader B , di Battista C , Häfliger R , Schälli O , Wichmann G , Zumbühl C , Blattner P , Cajochen C , Lazar R , Spitschan M
Published: February 2023

This article describes the development of a device to investigate the non-visual responses to light: The Light-Dosimeter (lido). Its multidisciplinary team followed a user-centred approach throughout the project, that is, their design decisions focused on researchers’ and participants’ needs. Together with custom-made mountings and the software Lido Studio, the lidos provide researchers with a holistic solution to record participants’ light exposure in the near-corneal plane in laboratory settings and under real-world conditions. Validation measurements with commercial equipment were deemed satisfying, as was the combining with data from other devices. The handling of the lidos and mountings and the use of the software Lido Studio during the trial period by various researchers and participants were successful. Despite some limitations, the lidos can help advance research on the non-visual responses to light over the coming years.
Impacts of microgravity on amino acid metabolism during spaceflight
Authors: Dickerson Broderick L , Sowinski Ryan , Kreider Richard B , Wu Guoyao
Published: February 2023

Spaceflight exerts an extreme and unique influence on human physiology as astronauts are subjected to long-term or short-term exposure to microgravity. During spaceflight, a multitude of physiological changes, including the loss of skeletal muscle mass, bone resorption, oxidative stress, and impaired blood flow, occur, which can affect astronaut health and the likelihood of mission success. In vivo and in vitro metabolite studies suggest that amino acids are among the most affected nutrients and metabolites by microgravity (a weightless condition due to very weak gravitational forces). Moreover, exposure to microgravity alters gut microbial composition, immune function, musculoskeletal health, and consequently amino acid metabolism. Appropriate knowledge of daily protein consumption, with a focus on specific functional amino acids, may offer insight into potential combative and/or therapeutic effects of amino acid consumption in astronauts and space travelers. This will further aid in the successful development of long-term manned space mission and permanent space habitats.
Radially Based Extensor Retinacular Sling Reconstruction for Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Subsheath Injuries in Elite Athletes
Authors: Mastroianni Michael A. , Leibman Matthew , Belsky Mark , Vitale Mark A. , Ruchelsman David E.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) subsheath injuries are an increasingly recognized cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain in elite athletes. There is a lack of surgical outcome data in elite athletes, and unique considerations exist for these patients.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of our hand center experience of 14 elite professional or collegiate athletes who prospectively underwent radially based extensor retinacular sling ECU subsheath reconstruction by 3 hand surgery-fellowship-trained surgeons between April 2011 and April 2021. Clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and intraoperative findings were cataloged. Subgroup analyses of elite hockey players and acute subsheath injuries were also conducted. Statistical analysis was performed via a 2-tailed paired t test.

Results:

Mean age at the time of surgery was 21.3 years (range, 18-34). Mean time from symptom onset to surgery was 102.1 ± 110.7 days. All 14 patients underwent preoperative MRI. Five patients (35.7%) had intrinsic ECU tendinopathy, 9 patients (64.3%) had ECU tenosynovitis, 6 patients (42.9%) had triangular fibrocartilage complex tears, and 9 patients (64.3%) had ulnocarpal synovitis. Mean postoperative pain on a Visual Analog Scale was 0.25 ± 0.43. Grip strength ( P = .001), wrist flexion-extension ( P = .037), and pronosupination arcs ( P = .093) showed excellent recovery postoperatively. Mean time to unrestricted return to sports was 92.5 ± 21.0 days. There were no complications. Subgroup analyses found similar functional improvement and characterized injury patterns.

Conclusions:

Overall, our findings suggest surgical management of ECU subsheath injuries is a viable option in both acute and chronic settings in elite athletes and may be favorable compared with nonoperative management.
Radiographic Scapholunate Interval in the Pediatric Population Decreases in Size as Age Increases
Authors: Shaver Timothy B. , Hogarth Danielle A. , Case Alexandria L. , May Catherine C. , Abzug Joshua M.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Widening of the scapholunate (SL) interval greater than 2 mm is diagnostic of an injury in adults; however, this absolute number cannot be used for skeletally immature individuals due to the ossification of the carpal bones. The purpose of this study was to determine age-appropriate normative values for the radiographic SL interval in the skeletally immature population.

Methods:

Normal pediatric wrist radiographs were identified. The radiographic SL interval was measured as the distance between the scaphoid and the lunate at the mid-joint space between the scaphoid and the lunate, and the SL and capitolunate angles were measured on lateral views. An initial inter-rater reliability assessment was completed with strong inter-rater reliability.

Results:

In all, 529 radiographic series of children (276 male), aged 4 to 17 years, were reviewed. A negative linear correlation between chronological age and distance at the mid-joint space was observed. The average values for the radiographic SL interval ranged from 9.07 to 1.57 mm. The average SL and capitolunate angles were 52.0° and 10.6°, respectively. No linear relationship was found between chronological age and SL or capitolunate angle ( R = 0.07 and 0.03, respectively).

Conclusions:

The visible radiographic distance between the scaphoid and the lunate decreases with increasing age as the carpal bones ossify. The normative values defined in this study can be used to determine whether a true widening of the SL interval is present in the pediatric population. No linear relationship exists between chronological age and SL or capitolunate angle.
Rehabilitation following extra-articular proximal phalangeal fractures of the fingers in adults: a scoping review
Authors: Vervloesem Nele , Glassey Nicole , Kerr Alison
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Proximal phalangeal fractures are common and can have a significant impact on hand function. Therefore, it is important to optimise post-operative rehabilitation. A scoping review was undertaken to map the existing evidence on rehabilitation of proximal phalangeal fractures of the fingers in adults.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted which included database searching, reference searching, hand searching of journals, and searching for grey literature. Eight articles were included after screening for eligibility.

Results

Three studies researched surgical interventions and five studies conservative management. The immobilisation period varied between 5 days to 3 weeks in the surgical studies, and between 3 to 7 weeks in the conservative studies. Active exercise therapy was started immediately with conservative management, while in the surgical studies time to commence exercises varied between 5 days and 3 weeks. All studies reported good results in mobility with a mean total active motion ranging from 240° to 258.9°. Patients reported little pain at final follow-up and grip strength recovered to 96% compared to the unaffected side. Studies reporting on function and patient satisfaction lacked transparency.

Conclusions

All studies had a moderate to high risk of bias and the results of the included studies should therefore be interpreted with caution. More high-quality randomised controlled studies with an a priori research protocol and a standard set of outcome measures are necessary to research whether early motion, an intrinsic plus splint leaving the wrist free, and the inclusion of additional treatment modalities can result in a better and/or faster recovery.
Two cases of sternoclavicular joint replacement arthroplasty: A case report. A novel prosthesis and surgical technique for recalcitrant instability, arthropathy of the sternoclavicular joint with medial clavicular bone loss
Authors: Burns Sophia , Thangarajah Tanujan , Lambert Simon
Published: February 2023

Instability arthropathy of the sternoclavicular joint is most commonly managed by rehabilitation, injection, and either arthroscopic or open debridement with or without interposition arthroplasty. When these options fail to achieve symptom relief, excision arthroplasty is an option. This is associated with a risk of persistent instability and incomplete pain relief. We describe two cases in which custom sternoclavicular joint replacement was performed for painful insufficiency of scapular suspension. Although the prostheses remained secure in both cases, the first case was complicated by persistent instability due to insufficient reconstruction of the intrinsic sternoclavicular capsular ligaments. This was recognised and corrected for in the second case, in which stability of the sternoclavicular joint replacement has been noted on more than a 5-year review. We conclude that sternoclavicular joint replacement is an option for patients in whom instability arthropathy remains an intrusive problem in daily life after other conventional treatments have not controlled symptoms. Stability of the joint remains a concern. We offer one method of achieving stability through an iterative design process including the ability to reconstruct the intrinsic capsular ligaments around the articulation.
Malignant upper urinary tract obstruction: A prospective evaluation of patients presenting as an emergency to urology and their long-term real-life outcomes
Authors: Corkill Joel , Hawthorne Rachel , Westera Jurjen , Collin Neil , Aning Jonathan
Published: February 2023

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the management and survival outcomes of patients referred to urology as an emergency with malignant upper urinary tract obstruction (MUUTO).

Patients and Methods:

Between 2019 and 2020, the outcomes of all emergency referrals with MUUTO to the Urology team at a single institution were prospectively analysed.

Results:

In total, 119 patients, median age 77 years, were referred to the urology team with MUUTO. Of these, 59% (70/119) had bilateral and 41% (49/119) unilateral obstruction. The three commonest primary underlying malignancies were bladder (41% (49/119)), prostate (19% (23/119)), and colorectal (8% (10/119)) cancer. The commonest indication for referral was acute kidney injury (86% (103/119)), the remainder had sepsis (13% (15/119)), and pain (1% (1/119)). Median in-patient stay for the admission was 7 days. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR/1.73 m2) measured on discharge improved irrespective of whether intervention for MUUTO was received. Overall survival of the cohort was 13% (16/119).

Conclusions:

Patients referred with MUUTO as an emergency have a poor prognosis. Renal function does not significantly deteriorate in the short term in this patient group with no intervention, and overall survival is not significantly improved after intervention unless further treatment is received. Multidisciplinary team discussion, including patients and oncologists, should be best practice before intervention in this challenging situation.

Level of evidence:

2b
How platforms govern: Social regulation in digital capitalism
Authors: Törnberg Petter
Published: February 2023

The rise of digital platforms has in recent years redefined contemporary capitalism—provoking discussions on whether platformization should be understood as bringing an altogether new form of capitalism, or as merely a continuation and intensification of existing neoliberal trends. This paper draws on regulation theory to examine social regulation in digital capitalism, arguing for understanding digital capitalism as continuities of existing capitalist trends coming to produce discontinuities. The paper makes three main arguments. First, it situates digital capitalism as a continuation of longer running post-Fordist trends of financialization, digitalization, and privatization—converging in the emergence of digital proprietary markets, owned and regulated by transnational platform companies. Second, as the platform model is founded on monopolizing regulation, platforms come into direct competition with states and public institutions, which they pursue through a set of distinct technopolitical strategies to claim power to govern—resulting in a geographically variegated process of institutional transformation. Third, while the digital proprietary markets are continuities of existing trends, they bring new pressures and affordances, thus producing discontinuities in social regulation. We examine such discontinuities in relation to three aspects of social regulation: (a) from neoliberalism to techno-feudalism; (b) from Taylorist hierarchies toward algorithmic herds and technoliberal subjectivity; and (c) from postmodernity toward an automated consumer culture.
Double-Positive Anti–Glomerular Basement Membrane Antibody and Myeloperoxidase Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Autoantibody–Associated Glomerulonephritis Post COVID-19 mRNA vaccine: A Case Series of 4 Patients
Authors: Ting Julie Anne , Barbir Elena-Bianca , McRae Susanna A. , Schachter Michael , De Luca Linda , Riazy Maziar , Levin Adeera
Published: February 2023

Rationale:

Vaccines remain central to the management of COVID-19 pandemic, including the need for repeat doses of vaccines to boost immunity. There has been an accumulating case count of glomerulopathies temporally associated with COVID-19 vaccination. This case series presents 4 patients who developed double-positive anti–glomerular basement membrane antibody (anti-GBM) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated glomerulonephritis after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. This report contributes to our collective knowledge about the pathophysiology and clinical outcomes associated with this rare complication.

Presenting Concerns of the Patient:

Four patients developed nephritic syndrome within 1 to 6 weeks after receiving a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (3 post Pfizer-BioNTech and 1 post Moderna vaccination). Three of the 4 patients also had hemoptysis.

Diagnosis:

Three of the 4 patients had double-positive serology, whereas the fourth patient had renal biopsy findings consistent with double-positive disease, although anti-GBM serology was negative. All patients had renal biopsy findings consistent with double-positive anti-GBM and ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis.

Interventions:

All 4 patients were treated with pulse steroids, cyclophosphamide, and plasmapheresis.

Outcomes:

Of the 4 patients, 1 demonstrated complete remission, 2 remained dialysis-dependent, and the fourth is deceased. Of the 2 patients who received repeat vaccination with COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, 1 patient had second serologic flare of anti-GBM in response to the vaccine.

Novel Findings:

This case series reinforces growing evidence that COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-induced glomerulonephritis is a rare but real phenomenon. Dual ANCA and anti-GBM nephritis can present after the first dose of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine or after several administrations of the vaccine. We are the first to report cases of double-positive MPO ANCA and anti-GBM nephritis after Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination. To our knowledge, we are also the first to report outcomes of repeat COVID-19 vaccination in patients with de novo flare of ANCA and anti-GBM nephritis temporally associated with COVID-19 vaccination.
The effect of question order on outcomes in the orbital core outcome set for alcohol brief interventions among online help-seekers (QOBCOS): Findings from a randomised factorial trial
Authors: Bendtsen Marcus , Garnett Claire , Toner Paul , Shorter Gillian W
Published: February 2023

Objective

A core outcome set (COS) has been developed in alcohol brief intervention (ABI) research through international consensus. This study aimed to estimate order effects among questions in the COS.

Methods

Individuals aged 18 or older who searched online for alcohol-related help were invited to complete the COS. The order of questions was randomised following a factorial design. Primary outcomes were order effects among the COS items and patterns of attrition.

Results

Between 21/10/2020 and 26/11/2020, we randomised 7334 participants, of which 5256 responded to at least one question and were available for analyses. Current non-drinkers were excluded. We found evidence of higher self-reported average consumption and odds of harmful and hazardous drinking was found among those who first answered questions on recent consumption and impact of alcohol use. Lower self-reported recent consumption was found among those first asked about average consumption. Quality of life (QoL) was reported lower among those who first responded to when questions on impact of alcohol use were asked first, which in turn was lower among those who first answered question on when average consumption and QoL were asked first. Attrition was lowest when average consumption was asked first, and highest when QoL or impact of alcohol use was asked first. Median completion time for the COS was 4.3 min.

Conclusions

Question order affects outcomes and attrition. If the aim is to minimize attrition, consumption measures should be asked before QoL and impact of alcohol use; however, this order impacts self-reported alcohol consumption and so researchers should be guided by study priorities. At a minimum, all participants should be asked the same questions in the same order.

Trial registration

The trial was prospectively registered (ISRCTN17954645).
The Practice of Managerial Leadership Roles and its Effect on Building Human Resource Capability: The Case of North Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Dea Tarekegn , Tekalign Temesgen Fekade
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study is to describe the state of managerial leadership roles and their effect on building human resource capability in North Wollo Zone, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. It is intended to examine to what extent leaders play significant managerial leadership roles, such as facilitation, monitoring, innovation, brokering, producing, directing, coordinating and mentoring to build value-adding human resource capability in the study area. To meet already stated objectives mixed-method research design was used. The study areas, North Wollo Zone were selected purposively. Woreda in the Zone and sectors in Woreda were selected using stratified sampling. A simple random sampling technique was applied to select study participants. The data was collected through a questionnaire, interview and document review. Both inferential statistical tools—correlation and regression, and descriptive research statistical tools—mean and percentage analysis techniques are applied to provide meaning for raw data. The findings of this study confirmed the inadequate practice of managerial leadership roles as well as building value-adding human resource capability. Managerial leadership roles and building human resource capability have a positive and strong relationship. Managerial leadership roles have a significant effect on building institutions’ human resource capability.
Reducing Cost of Capital. Do Voluntary Disclosure and Accounting Conservatism Contribute?
Authors: Alia Muiz Abu , AbuSarees Alaa Khaled
Published: February 2023

Theoretically, accounting conservatism and voluntary disclosure may be used as means to reduce cost of equity. Supportive evidence has been provided by the majority of studies, especially in developed countries. We address this issue by focusing on an underdeveloped country with political instability. The impact of accounting conservatism and voluntary disclosure on cost of capital is estimated using the data belongs to all companies listed on the Palestine Exchange during the period from 2015 to 2019. The results confirm the negative influence of voluntary disclosure and accounting conservatism on cost of capital.
Risk mapping in community pharmacies
Authors: Lee Joon Ho , Aubert Benoit A. , Barker James R.
Published: February 2023

Community pharmacists worldwide operate with the continual risk of errors (Quality Related Events—QREs) occurring in their dispensing processes. Contemporary analysis of community pharmacy QREs tends to concentrate on the outcomes of the error, such as the degree of patient harm, rather than on the risks associated with the triggering of a QRE. Drawing on risk identification and mapping techniques from the information security sector, we conducted a risk mapping exercise of QREs occurring in Canadian community pharmacies as identified in publicly available accident investigations. The findings from the present study identified relationships and patterns between various risk factors, types of errors, and patient outcomes. For example, the risk factors most associated with errors that result in patient fatality were the “sound-alike/look-alike” medication labeling and the dispensing checking and verification processes in the pharmacy. Study findings support the application of risk identification and mapping techniques to community pharmacy risk and QRE mitigation practices and regulations.
A review on surface functionalization of carbon nanotubes: methods and applications
Authors: Alosime Eid M.
Published: February 2023

In this review, the radiolytic and physical methods that can be used for the functionalization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and their applications as a support for fuel cell electrodes are described. Alloy nanoparticles have also been examined. For example, Pt–Ru nanoparticles were deposited onto a functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) composite by reducing metal ions (e.g., Pt4+ and Ru3+) here using γ-irradiation and, hence, creating Pt–Ru/MWNT catalysts. The morphology, size, and composition of these Pt–Ru/MWNT catalysts were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and elemental analysis, respectively. The efficiency of the Pt–Ru/MWNT catalyst was examined for use in the oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) and methanol. The results of stripping voltammetry for the adsorbed CO on the Pt–Ru/MWNT catalyst electrodes indicated that CO oxidation was energetically favorable at these electrodes. Thus, Pt–Ru/MWNT catalysts were found to be suitable for electrode assembly in direct methanol fuel cells.
Clustering pattern and evolution characteristic of microRNAs in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)
Authors: Niu Huiqin , Pang Yifan , Xie Lingli , Yu Qiaozhen , Shen Yubang , Li Jiale , Xu Xiaoyan
Published: February 2023

Background

A considerable fraction of microRNAs (miRNAs) are highly conserved, and certain miRNAs correspond to genomic clusters. The clustering of miRNAs can be advantageous, possibly by allowing coordinated expression. However, little is known about the evolutionary forces responsible for the loss and acquisition of miRNA and miRNA clusters.

Results

The results demonstrated that several novel miRNAs arose throughout grass carp evolution. Duplication and de novo production were critical strategies for miRNA cluster formation. Duplicates accounted for a smaller fraction of the expansion in the grass carp miRNA than de novo creation. Clustered miRNAs are more conserved and change slower, whereas unique miRNAs usually have high evolution rates and low expression levels. The expression level of miRNA expression in clusters is strongly correlated.

Conclusions

This study examines the genomic distribution, evolutionary background, and expression regulation of grass carp miRNAs. Our findings provide novel insights into the genesis and development of miRNA clusters in teleost.
Intraspecific variations in leaf functional traits of Cunninghamia lanceolata provenances
Authors: Xu Rui , Cheng Shundan , Zhou Jing , Tigabu Mulualem , Ma Xiangqing , Li Ming
Published: February 2023

Background

Studies on intra-specific variability in leaf functional traits is important to evaluate adaptation of the species to predicted climate change, and to develop long-term conservation strategy. The main objectives were to investigate the relationship between the functional traits leaves and C, N, P stoichiometry of Chinese fir from different geographical provenances and their relationship with the main environmental factors of provenance.

Results

In this study, we measured 12 leaf functional traits on 36-year-old Cunninghamia lanceolata trees from 13 provenances. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to examine the variability. Redundancy analysis (RA) was computed to examine the relationship between geo-climatic factors of provenance origin and leaf functional traits while Pearson’s correlation coefficient was computed to assess inter-trait correlations. The results showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.01) in intraspecific leaf traits among provenances, except leaf P content. The relationships among leaf traits are consistent with the general trend observed in the leaf economic spectrum. Mean annual temperature appeared to be a key factor that influences intraspecific leaf traits variability compared to mean annual precipitation.

Conclusion

These results provide useful insights about adaptation of leaf trait of Chinese fir in a changing climatic condition. Thus, our findings shed light on the importance of interspecific trait variability in Chinese fir and the potential effect of climate change.
Uncovering the involvement of DoDELLA1-interacting proteins in development by characterizing the DoDELLA gene family in Dendrobium officinale
Authors: Zeng Danqi , Si Can , Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Shi Hongyu , Chen Jing , Huang Lei , Duan Juan , He Chunmei
Published: February 2023

Background

Gibberellins (GAs) are widely involved in plant growth and development. DELLA proteins are key regulators of plant development and a negative regulatory factor of GA. Dendrobium officinale is a valuable traditional Chinese medicine, but little is known about D. officinale DELLA proteins. Assessing the function of D. officinale DELLA proteins would provide an understanding of their roles in this orchid’s development.

Results

In this study, the D. officinale DELLA gene family was identified. The function of DoDELLA1 was analyzed in detail. qRT-PCR analysis showed that the expression levels of all DoDELLA genes were significantly up-regulated in multiple shoots and GA3-treated leaves. DoDELLA1 and DoDELLA3 were significantly up-regulated in response to salt stress but were significantly down-regulated under drought stress. DoDELLA1 was localized in the nucleus. A strong interaction was observed between DoDELLA1 and DoMYB39 or DoMYB308, but a weak interaction with DoWAT1.

Conclusions

In D. officinale, a developmental regulatory network involves a close link between DELLA and other key proteins in this orchid’s life cycle. DELLA plays a crucial role in D. officinale development.
Is it possible to reduce the rate of vertical transmission and improve perinatal outcomes by inclusion of remdesivir in treatment regimen of pregnant women with COVID–19?
Authors: Tavakoli Nader , Chaichian Shahla , Sadraei Jamileh Sadat , Sarhadi Saeedeh , Bidgoli Sepideh Arbabi , Rokhsat Elnaz , Anoushirvani Katayoon , Nikfar Banafsheh , Mehdizadehkashi Abolfazl
Published: February 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID–19) is currently one of the world's most critical health issues so far. Given the importance of appropriate treatment in pregnancy and the controversies about Remdesivir effectiveness and complications, the present study aimed to evaluate the impact of Remdesivir on maternal, fetal, and perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with COVID–19 diseases.

Methods

A total of 189 pregnant women with positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results for SARS–COV–2, and oxygen saturation [SpO2] of < 95%) were admitted to 12 hospitals affiliated with the Iran University of Medical Sciences from March 1st, 2020 to June 7th, 2021, namely the first four COVID-19 Picks in Iran. They were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study by census method and categorized into case and control groups, based on the inclusion of Remdesivir in their treatment protocol. Demographics, clinical outcomes, and pregnancy-related complications of the mothers and the neonates were compared between the two study groups.

Results

A comparison of 54 mothers in the case and 135 in the control group showed no demographic and clinical characteristics difference. Neonates whose mothers did not receive Remdesivir had a higher rate of positive PCR (10.2%), compared to the Remdesivir group (1.9%) with a relative risk of 0.91 reported for Remdesivir (95% CI: 0.85–0.98, P = 0.04); besides, Remdesivir resulted in fewer neonatal intensive care unit admission rates in mild/moderate COVID–19 group (RR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.105–1.02, P = 0.03). Although neonatal death between the two groups was not statistically significant, from the clinical point seems important; 1(1.9%) in the case vs. 9(7.2%) in the control group. Interestingly LOS (Length of Stay) in the hospital was longer in the case group (median of 7 vs. 3 days; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The inclusion of Remdesivir in the treatment protocol of pregnant women with COVID–19 may reduce vertical transmission and improve perinatal outcomes, thus being suggested to be considered.
Identification of four metabolic subtypes and key prognostic markers in lung adenocarcinoma based on glycolytic and glutaminolytic pathways
Authors: Zhang Jinjin , Wang Xiaopeng , Song Congkuan , Li Qi
Published: February 2023

Background

Glucose and glutamine are the main energy sources for tumor cells. Whether glycolysis and glutaminolysis play a critical role in driving the molecular subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is unknown. This study attempts to identify LUAD metabolic subtypes with different characteristics and key genes based on gene transcription profiling data related to glycolysis and glutaminolysis, and to construct prognostic models to facilitate patient outcome prediction.

Methods

LUAD related data were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus, including TCGA-LUAD, GSE42127, GSE68465, GSE72094, GSE29013, GSE31210, GSE30219, GSE37745, GSE50081. Unsupervised consensus clustering was used for the identification of LUAD subtypes. Differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and CytoNCA App in Cytoscape 3.9.0 were used for the screening of key genes. The Cox proportional hazards model was used for the construction of the prognostic risk model. Finally, qPCR analysis, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence colocalization were used to validate the core genes of the model.

Result

This study identified four distinct characterized LUAD metabolic subtypes, glycolytic, glutaminolytic, mixed and quiescent types. The glycolytic type had a worse prognosis than the glutaminolytic type. Nine genes (CXCL8, CNR1, AGER, ALB, S100A7, SLC2A1, TH, SPP1, LEP) were identified as hub genes driving the glycolytic/glutaminolytic LUAD. In addition, the risk assessment model constructed based on three genes (SPP1, SLC2A1 and AGER) had good predictive performance and could be validated in multiple independent external LUAD cohorts. These three genes were differentially expressed in LUAD and lung normal tissues, and might be potential prognostic markers for LUAD.

Conclusion

LUAD can be classified into four different characteristic metabolic subtypes based on the glycolysis- and glutaminolysis-related genes. Nine genes (CXCL8, CNR1, AGER, ALB, S100A7, SLC2A1, TH, SPP1, LEP) may play an important role in the subtype-intrinsic drive. This metabolic subtype classification, provides new biological insights into the previously established LUAD subtypes.