bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relevance of Non‐Income Tax Relief*
Authors: Drake Michael S. , Hess Ryan V. , Wilde Jaron H. , Williams Braden M.
Published: April 2022

Governments regularly offer non‐income tax relief to attract business investment. However, it is unclear whether or how markets impound information about the relief into security prices. We use novel data from retrospective public records to examine the information content of non‐income tax relief. We predict and find that the receipt and magnitude of this relief are both strongly associated with recipients' future accounting performance and future abnormal returns. We further find that abnormal returns associated with the relief cluster around future earnings information events. In combination, this evidence suggests that non‐income tax relief is value‐relevant but is incorporated into prices over time.
Challenges of proving a causal role of somatic mutations in the aging process
Authors: Franco Irene , Revêchon Gwladys , Eriksson Maria
Published: April 2022

Aging is accompanied by the progressive accumulation of permanent changes to the genomic sequence, termed somatic mutations. Small mutations, including single‐base substitutions and insertions/deletions, are key determinants of the malignant transformations leading to cancer, but their role as initiators of other age‐related phenotypes is controversial. Here, we present recent advances in the study of somatic mutagenesis in aging tissues and posit that the current uncertainty about its causal effects in the aging process is due to technological and methodological weaknesses. We highlight classical and novel experimental systems, including premature aging syndromes, that could be used to model the increase of somatic mutation burden and understand its functional role. It is important that studies are designed to take into account the biological context and peculiarities of each tissue and that the downstream impact of somatic mutation accumulation is measured by methods able to resolve subtle cellular changes.
Smooth tests of goodness of fit for the distributional assumption of regression models
Authors: Rayner J. C. W. , Rippon Paul , Suesse Thomas , Thas Olivier
Published: April 2022

We focus on regression models that consist of (i) a model for the conditional mean of the outcome and (ii) a distributional assumption about the distribution of the outcome, both conditional on the regressors. Generalised linear models form a well‐known example. The choice of the outcome distribution is often motivated by prior or background knowledge of the researcher, or it is simply chosen for convenience. We propose smooth goodness of fit tests for testing the distributional assumption in regression models. The tests arise from embedding the regression model in a smooth family of alternatives, and constructing appropriate score tests that correctly account for nuisance parameter estimation. The tests are customised, focussed and comprehensive. We present several examples to illustrate the wide applicability of our method. A small simulation study demonstrates that our tests have power to detect important deviations from the hypothesised model.
A personalist approach to business ethics: New perspectives for virtue ethics and servant leadership
Authors: Scalzo Germán , Akrivou Kleio , Fernández González Manuel Joaquín
Published: April 2022

This article has a twofold purpose: first, it explores how Leonardo Polo's personalist anthropology enriches and enhances neo‐Aristotelian virtue ethics and second, it highlights how this specific personalist approach brings new perspectives to servant leadership. The recently revived neo‐Aristotelian virtue ethics tradition finds that MacIntyre's scholarship significantly contributes to virtue ethics in business—particularly his conception of practices, institutions, and internal/external goods. However, we argue that some of his latest insights about the virtues of acknowledged dependence and human vulnerability remain underdeveloped because of the underlying anthropology that neo‐Aristotelian virtue ethics relies on. To overcome this limitation, we introduce Polo's transcendental anthropology as a possible foundation of a personalist approach that enriches virtue ethics. To do so, we address how transcendental anthropology can enrich two central aspects of virtue ethics, namely (1) the understanding of human beings and their flourishing and (2) the relationship of virtue to praxis and human work. Finally, to address the practical implications for business leadership and work that can derive from assuming transcendental anthropology, we address how servant leadership acquires a new perspective in light of this personalism and its logic of gift, highlighting interpersonal self‐giving as a way of service.
Microwave focal therapy of prostate cancer: a non‐clinical study and exploratory clinical trial
Authors: Boku Hidehisa , Kaneko Masatomo , Yamada Yasuhiro , Morinaga Yukiko , Konishi Eiichi , Uno Aoi , Ito‐Ihara Toshiko , Yamada Ayumu , Horiguchi Go , Teramukai Satoshi , Fujihara Atsuko , Shiraishi Takumi , Yamada Takeshi , Ueda Takashi , Matsugasumi Toru , Ohashi Munehiro , Horiuchi Daisuke , Inoue Yuta , Ukimura Osamu
Published: April 2022

Objective

To examine the safety and efficacy of microwave tissue coagulation (MTC) for prostate cancer and assess its use in lesion‐targeted focal therapy in a non‐clinical study and a clinical phase II trial.

Methods

In the non‐clinical study using Microtaze®‐AFM‐712 (Alfresa Pharma Corporation, Osaka, Japan) with an MTC needle, MTC was performed using a transperineal approach to targeted canine prostatic tissue under real‐time ultrasonography guidance. Using various MTC output and irradiation time combinations, the targeted and surrounding tissues (rectum, bladder and fat) were examined to confirm the extent of coagulative necrosis or potential cell death, and to compare intra‐operative ultrasonography and pathology findings. The exploratory clinical trial was conducted to examine the safety and efficacy of MTC. Five selected patients underwent transperineal MTC to clinically single lesion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐visible lesions with Gleason score 3 + 4 or 4 + 4. Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), MRI and Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite questionnaire findings were compared before and 6 months after surgery.

Results

The region of coagulative necrosis was predictable by monitoring of ultrasonically visible vaporization; thus, by placing the MTC needle at a certain distance, we were able to perform a safe procedure without adverse events affecting the surrounding organs. Based on the non‐clinical study, which used various combinations of output and irradiation time, MTC with 30‐W output for 60‐s irradiation was selected for the prostate. Based on the predictable necrosis, the therapeutic plan (where to place the MTC needle to achieve complete ablation of the target and how many sessions) was strictly determined per patient. There were no serious adverse events in any patient and only temporary urinary symptoms related to MTC therapy were observed. Furthermore, post‐treatment satisfaction was very high. All preoperative MRI‐visible lesions disappeared, and PSA decreased by 55% 6 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Microwave tissue coagulation may be an option for lesion‐targeted focal therapy for prostate cancer.
Debate: “The‐Diagnosis‐That‐Must‐Not‐Be‐Named” – Professionals' fear of BPD is failing their patients
Authors: Cannon Jane , Gould Ian
Published: April 2022

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) seems to be the “Voldemort Diagnosis” – it must not be named! We believe this is misguided and dangerous. Failure to inform patients and carers of the potential for this diagnosis disempowers them. Everyone has a right to research and understand their own condition. The absence of honest diagnoses leaves young people feeling “mad and bad” and losing trust in professionals’ ability to help them. Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is not a suitable substitute diagnosis (at least not for our daughters). Failure to identify BPD symptoms in young people means CAMHS services are not investing in the treatments needed by these young people – often leading to the kind of inpatient stays that Guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) warn against – and to further deterioration.
Data justice and biodiversity conservation
Authors: Pritchard Rose , Sauls Laura Aileen , Oldekop Johan A. , Kiwango Wilhelm Andrew , Brockington Dan
Published: April 2022

Increases in data availability coupled with enhanced computational capacities are revolutionizing conservation. But in the excitement over the opportunities afforded by new data, there has been less discussion of the justice implications of data used in conservation, that is, how people and environments are represented through data, the conservation choices made based on data, and the distribution of benefits and harms arising from these choices. We propose a framework for understanding the justice dimensions of conservation data composed of five elements: data composition, data control, data access, data processing and use, and data consequences. For each element, we suggest a set of guiding questions that conservationists could use to think through their collection and use of data and to identify potential data injustices. The need for such a framework is illustrated by a synthesis of recent critiques of global conservation prioritization analyses. These critiques demonstrate the range of ways data could serve to produce social and ecological harms due to the choice of underlying data sets, assumptions made in the analysis, oversimplification of real‐world conservation practice, and crowding out of other forms of knowledge. We conclude by arguing that there are ways to mitigate risks of conservation data injustices, through formal ethical and legal frameworks and by promoting a more inclusive and more reflexive conservation research ethos. These will help ensure that data contribute to conservation strategies that are both socially just and ecologically effective.
Vocabulary Learning During Reading: Benefits of Contextual Inferences Versus Retrieval Opportunities
Authors: van den Broek Gesa S. E. , Wesseling Eva , Huijssen Linske , Lettink Maj , van Gog Tamara
Published: April 2022

Retrieval practice of isolated words (e.g., with flashcards) enhances foreign vocabulary learning. However, vocabulary is often encountered in context. We investigated whether retrieval opportunities also enhance contextualized word learning. In two within‐subjects experiments, participants encoded 24 foreign words and then read a story to further strengthen word knowledge. The story contained eight target words in a retrieval context, which required participants to recall word meaning from memory to understand the text (e.g., “She borrowed a knyga”), and eight target words in an inference context from which meaning could be inferred (e.g., “She read a knyga” [book]). After 1 to 2 days, a posttest measured word retention. Reading the words in either the retrieval or inference context increased retention, compared to control words not included in the story. Moreover, in Experiment 1, retention was significantly higher in the inference than in the retrieval condition. In Experiment 2, in which encoding before reading was more extensive and feedback was available, no differences in retention were found between the inference and retrieval + feedback condition (both increased retention, compared to control words). Overall, the findings suggest that the benefits of retrieval may be less pronounced during incidental, contextualized learning than during intentional exercises and that retrieval success must be considered when adding retrieval opportunities to contextualized learning. Under low retrieval success, the better comprehension afforded by an informative context may outweigh the benefits of retrieval opportunities (Exp.1). Yet even when retrieval success was enhanced and feedback was added (Exp. 2), retrieval opportunities were only as beneficial as exposure to rich contextual information.
Grounding ActionAid's Tax Justice Campaigns in Nigeria
Authors: Cascant‐Sempere Ma Josep
Published: April 2022

Integrating the demands raised by those most affected by poverty into international campaigns is important for safeguarding ethical integrity and encouraging mobilization. This article examines the case of the international non‐governmental organization (INGO) ActionAid, which managed, although not without challenges, to integrate the tax complaints of market traders — such as multiple taxation — into its international tax justice campaign in Nigeria. The case provides an example of an INGO‐driven campaign that created and nurtured bottom‐up processes. The author argues that more could have been done to channel additional claims from traders — such as steep tax increases and tax harassment — and to support their actions, their visits and letters to the government, and their tax strikes. Overall, however, the INGO retained relevance by identifying campaign frames and targets at local, national and international levels while ensuring the campaign remained unified. The article contributes to debates about tokenism in international advocacy and argues that the use of social movement theory enriches the international advocacy literature as it promotes an understanding of campaigning processes. However, social movement theory still proves insufficient to fully understand political voice. Theories about hidden forms of resistance play a complementary role, unveiling more concealed political action, especially in repressive settings or contexts with weak civil societies.
Functional domains affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: growing independence of motor skills and intelligence with increasing developmental age
Authors: Lemola Sakari
Published: April 2022

This commentary is on the original article by Branton et al. on pages 965–970 of this issue.
Circulating suPAR associates with severity and in‐hospital progression of COVID‐19
Authors: Chalkias Athanasios , Skoulakis Anargyros , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Laou Eleni , Tourlakopoulos Konstantinos , Pagonis Athanasios , Michou Anastasia , Ntalarizou Nicoletta , Mermiri Maria , Ragias Dimitrios , Bernal‐Morell Enrique , Cebreiros López Iria , García de Guadiana‐Romualdo Luis , Eugen‐Olsen Jesper , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos , Pantazopoulos Ioannis ,   for the SPARCOL Investigators
Published: April 2022

Background

COVID‐19 disease progression is characterized by hyperinflammation and risk stratification may aid in early aggressive treatment and advanced planning. The aim of this study was to assess whether suPAR and other markers measured at hospital admission can predict the severity of COVID‐19.

Methods

The primary outcome measure in this international, multi‐centre, prospective, observational study with adult patients hospitalized primarily for COVID‐19 was the association of WHO Clinical Progression Scale (WHO‐CPS) with suPAR, ferritin, CRP, albumin, LDH, eGFR, age, procalcitonin, and interleukin‐6. Admission plasma suPAR levels were determined using the suPARnostic® ELISA and suPARnostic® Turbilatex assays.

Results

Seven hundred and sixty‐seven patients, 440 (57.4%) males and 327 (42.6%) females, were included with a median age of 64 years. Log‐suPAR levels significantly correlated with WHO‐CPS score, with each doubling of suPAR increasing the score by one point (p < .001). All the other markers were also correlated with WHO‐CPS score. Admission suPAR levels were significantly lower in survivors (7.10 vs. 9.63, 95% CI 1.47–3.59, p < .001). A linear model (SALGA) including suPAR, serum albumin, serum lactate dehydrogenase, eGFR, and age can best estimate the WHO‐CPS score and survival. Combining all five parameters in the SALGA model can improve the accuracy of discrimination with an AUC of 0.80 (95% CI: 0.759–0.836).

Conclusions

suPAR levels significantly correlated with WHO‐CPS score, with each doubling of suPAR increasing the score by one point. The SALGA model may serve as a quick tool for predicting disease severity and survival at admission.
Organizational control in the context of remote working: A synthesis of empirical findings and a research agenda
Authors: Pianese Tommasina , Errichiello Luisa , da Cunha Joao Vieira
Published: April 2022

The increasing diffusion of remote working puts organizational control in the foreground. As employees work at a distance from traditional offices and/or are geographically dispersed, companies are called upon to influence their willingness to act in accordance with a company's vision, values, and objectives. To date, a comprehensive understanding of how organizational control is implied in remote work arrangements (RWAs) is still lacking. To fill this gap, a research synthesis—that is, a systematic review of 131 studies that empirically investigated this issue—is carried on. The analysis is not limited to direct forms of control (e.g., output control) but also includes managerial practices as well as actions enacted by employees that influence the dynamics of control, acting as indirect levers of control. Findings were presented and discussed in relation to five “control domains”: control systems, supervisory management styles, trusting relationships, organizational identification, and work identity in RWAs.
Short‐term and sustained clinical response following thymectomy in patients with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Rath Jakob , Taborsky Manuela , Moser Bernhard , Zulehner Gudrun , Weng Rosa , Krenn Martin , Cetin Hakan , Matilla José Ramon , Müllauer Leonhard , Zimprich Fritz
Published: April 2022

Background and purpose

This study was undertaken to investigate short‐ and long‐term outcome following thymectomy in patients with acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR‐Ab)‐positive myasthenia gravis (MG).

Methods

Rates of clinical response (defined as minimal manifestation, pharmacological remission, or complete stable remission) lasting for at least 1 year were retrospectively analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models. The occurrence of relapses was recorded during follow‐up. Clinical factors associated with achieving an initial or a sustained response were analyzed.

Results

Ninety‐four patients with a median age of 33 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 22–51), 68% with nonthymomatous MG and 32% with thymoma‐associated MG, were included. An initial clinical response was reached in 72% (68/94). Neither sex, age at onset, thymus histology, delay to surgery after disease onset, surgical approach, corticosteroid treatment, nor clinical severity before thymectomy was significantly associated with achieving this endpoint. During long‐term follow‐up (median = 89.5 months, IQR = 46–189.5), only half of the patients with an initial response (34/68) had a sustained response without relapses. No clinical factors predicted whether the response would become sustained. In patients without immunosuppressive treatment before thymectomy (n = 24), a high AChR‐Ab reduction rate after thymectomy was associated with a higher likelihood of achieving an initial response (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Sustained long‐term clinical response of MG patients after thymectomy is significantly lower than the initial response rates would suggest. The observation that none of the evaluated clinical factors was associated with a worse outcome supports the current clinical practice of patient selection for thymectomy. The relative decline of AChR‐Abs after surgery appears to be a promising prognostic marker.
Use of barbed suture for thoracoscopic repair of diaphragmatic hernias: Three cases
Authors: Kamus Louis , Ruzickova Pavlina , Piat Perrine , Trencart Pierre , Bonilla Alvaro
Published: April 2022

Three horses were diagnosed with a dorsally located diaphragmatic hernia/tear associated with either a penetrating injury in the first case or with signs of small intestine strangulation in the remaining two cases. After diagnosis during exploratory thoracoscopy (Case 1) or emergency laparotomy (Cases 2 and 3), closure of the dorsal defect in the diaphragm was performed through a thoracoscopic approach in all cases. Defects were closed with barbed suture with either a direct suturing technique or an automated suturing device. All horses recovered uneventfully and were alive at follow‐up (2 to 3 years after surgery). No significant complications or recurrence were reported.
Applying the theory of reasoned action to examine consumers' attitude and willingness to purchase organic foods
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Gupta Kamal , Kumar Ashwani , Singh Amol , Singh Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2022

The organic food market has emerged as a growing trend among consumers. The present study examines the relationship between Health Consciousness (HC), Organic Food Knowledge (OFK), Subjective Norms (SN), Price Perception (PP), Environmental Concern (EC), Attitude (ATT), Willingness to Purchase (WP), and Actual Buying Behaviour (ABB) towards organic food. Furthermore, the study explores the mediating effects of ATT and WP in the relationship between the aforesaid variables and ABB. The data was collected from 240 respondents using convenience sampling approach. The Structure Equation Modelling (SEM) using ADANCO 2.2 is used to test the hypotheses of the conceptual model proposed in the present study. The study found that the variables HC, OFK, SN, EC, ATT, WP significantly affect the ABB. Also, it is observed that EC is the strongest predictor of ATT, WP, and ABB in organic food purchase, whereas PP is the least influencing factor. Further, HC positively influences ATT and WP but shows a negative association with ABB. The antecedents HC, OFK, SN, PP, EC has shown a significant indirect effect on ABB among respondents through ATT and WP. Finally, the theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Pigmented flower extracts of plant species from the Geraniaceae and Lamiaceae families as natural food colourants: anthocyanin composition, thermal and oxidative stability
Authors: Venter Anton , Fisher Hennie , Stafford Gary I. , Duodu Kwaku Gyebi
Published: April 2022

This study determined the anthocyanin profile of pigmented flower extracts from some Geraniaceae and Lamiaceae plant species found in South Africa, and their thermal and oxidative stability to assess their potential food application. Anthocyanins in the Geraniaceae (Pelargonium grandiflorum Willd. and Pelargonium × hortorum L.H. Bailey, Pelargonium zonale hybrid) were 3,5‐diglucosides of delphinidin, petunidin, pelargonidin, peonidin and malvidin and acetyl‐acylated malvidin, delphinidin and petunidin. The Lamiaceae species (Salvia aurea × dolomitica Bae’s blue, Salvia dolomitica Codd and Plectranthus zuluensis T. Cooke) mainly contained rutinosides of pelargonidin, glucosides of petunidin, pelargonidin and p‐coumaric acid‐ and malonyl‐acylated delphinidin and malvidin. Lamiaceae pigments had higher thermal and oxidative stability. This could be due to aromatic malonyl‐acylated anthocyanin self‐association and strong intermolecular interactions with phenolic acids and derivatives. Flowers from Lamiaceae and Geraniaceae have potential application as natural food colourants, but temperature and oxidising conditions must be considered depending on the particular species being used.
Nurses’ well‐being and implications for human resource management: A systematic literature review
Authors: Xiao Qijie , Cooke Fang Lee , Chen Lanlan
Published: April 2022

As the largest workforce to provide patient care in the healthcare industry, nurses’ well‐being issues have attracted increasing research and practical attention. Extant studies have identified diverse causes of nurses’ poor states of well‐being. However, little research has offered a holistic evaluation that brings cross‐level factors together to untangle the complexity of nurses’ well‐being. Current literature has yet to capture the different but inter‐connected nature of three dimensions of nurses’ well‐being (health, happiness, and relationships). In 2020 and 2021, we conducted a systematic search of various academic databases. Based on a systematic review of 91 articles published between 1994 and 2020, we have created a multi‐perspective, multi‐level, and multi‐faceted model of nurses’ well‐being. In doing so, we contribute to contemporary literature in three ways. First, based on a combination of the job demands‐resources (JDR) model and social exchange theory, we provide a comprehensive understanding of multi‐level factors influencing nurses’ well‐being. Second, we identify three different but inter‐linked facets of nurses’ well‐being (health‐, happiness‐, and relationship‐related well‐being). Third, we adopt various perspectives to identify the process through which well‐being‐oriented human resource management (HRM) enhances nurses’ well‐being. We encourage healthcare organizations to implement well‐being‐oriented HRM by investing in nursing staff, providing engaging work, improving nurses’ voices, creating nursing‐friendly work environments, and offering multiple job‐related supports.
A competency model for nurse executives
Authors: González García Alberto , Pinto‐Carral Arrate , Pérez González Silvia , Marqués‐Sánchez Pilar
Published: April 2022

Background

Nurses capable of adequately developing their competencies in the management field are essential for the sustainability of health‐care organizations. Such competencies should be included in a model of specific competencies.

Aim

The aim of this research is to propose a competency model for nurse executives.

Methods

The Delphi method was applied to reach a consensus on the required competencies, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to determine the construct validity and reduce the data set's dimensionality. Consensus was defined based on at least 80% of the experts agreeing with the proposed competencies. For each competency, the development levels were beginner, advanced beginner, competent, highly competent and expert.

Results

From among the 51 competencies that were identified to define a model for nurse executives, decision‐making, leadership and communication stood out. The PCA indicated the structural validity of the proposed model by saturation of the principal components (Cronbach's α > 0.631).

Conclusion

Nurses wishing to develop their professional careers as nurse executives must first develop the competencies shown in the proposed model. Nurse executives should follow the educational programmes specified in this study, to adapt their knowledge to this role's requirements.
Coercive containment measures for the management of self‐cutting versus general disturbed behaviour: Differences in use and attitudes among mental health nursing staff
Authors: Dickens Geoffrey L. , Hosie Leah
Published: April 2022

Self‐harm is common in mental health facilities, and coercive containment measures are sometimes used to manage it. Nurses' attitudes towards these measures have been investigated in relation to disturbed behaviour in general, but rarely to self‐harm specifically. We therefore investigated mental health nurses' use of and attitudes towards coercive measures (seclusion, restraint, intermittent and constant observations, forced intramuscular medication, and PRN medication) for self‐cutting management compared with for disturbed behaviours in general using a cross‐sectional, repeated measures survey design. Participants were N = 164 mental health nursing staff. Data collection was via a questionnaire comprising validated attitudinal measures. The study is reported in line with STROBE guidelines. Physical restraint (36.6%), forced intramuscular medication (32.3%) and seclusion (48.2%) had reportedly been used by individuals for self‐cutting management. Respondents disapproved of using each coercive measure for self‐cutting more than they did for disturbed behaviour in general with the exception of PRN medication. Attitudes to coercive measures differed across target behaviours. Hence, nurses who had used each measure for managing self‐cutting disapproved of it less for that purpose than those who had not. Nurses who had used coercive techniques for self‐cutting management had less desirable attitudes to their use. We cannot say whether prior use of these techniques led to increased approval or whether greater approval led to an increased willingness to use them. Reducing the use of coercive techniques for self‐harm will require attitudes that support its use to be challenged. Less coercive techniques should be encouraged. Harm reduction techniques offer one such alternative.
Challenges and pathways to green supply chain management: Evidence from manufacturing sectors in an emerging economy
Authors: Uddin Mahi , Hoque Nazamul , Mowla Md Masrurul , Uddin Mohammad Nazim , Mamun Abdullahil
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to identify the challenges in implementing green supply chain management (GSCM) practices in Bangladeshi manufacturing industries and pathways to address those challenges. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews and analysed employing thematic analysis (N = 20, mean age = 42 years). The results demonstrated that among other challenges that impede implementing GSCM practices in the Bangladeshi manufacturing sector, lack of organizational policy, lack of infrastructure and technology, lack of knowledge, lack of management support and interest, and financial constraints are the significant ones. The findings also reported that setting and implementing effective organizational policies, monitoring, allocating sufficient resources, building informed and open collaboration with suppliers, developing knowledge and awareness, introducing environmental educational subjects and programs, and providing training and orientation programs may be effective pathways in implementing GSCM practices manufacturing firms can use to overcome challenges for GSCM practices. The findings may help managers, policymakers, supply chain professionals, and the management of the manufacturing industries to identify and address challenges of applying GSCM practices in Bangladesh.
Prevalence of atrial fibrillation and the risk of cardiovascular mortality among hypertensive elderly population in northeast China
Authors: Xia Zhenwei , Dang Wei , Yang Xue , Sun Qun , Sun Jixu , Shi Lei , Sun Shize , An Le , Li Xiaojing , Peng Hongbo , Liu Shuang , Yue Ling , Chen Hongyun
Published: April 2022

Little is known about the epidemiology and impact of atrial fibrillation (AF) on cardiovascular diseases (CVD) mortality among hypertensive elderly population in northeast China. The community‐based study included 4497 hypertensive elderly residents aged ≥65 years who lived in northeast China from September 2017 to March 2019. Information on CVD deaths was obtained from baseline until July 31, 2021. Cox proportional hazard regression models were performed in the evaluation of CVD mortality. We identified 101 persons with AF. The prevalence of AF was 2.2% among elderly hypertensive population, which increased significantly with age. The prevalence of AF was higher in men than in women. The awareness rate was 51.5%, higher in urban areas than in rural areas (68.8% vs 43.5%, P = .018). Only 4.0% patients received oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy among AF patients. Moreover, diabetes (26.7%) and dyslipidemia (37.6%) were highly prevalent in AF patients. Furthermore, 212 persons died due to CVD (14.7/1000 person‐years) during a median follow‐up of 3.2 years. AF patients had a 3.42 (95% CI: 2.07‐5.63) times higher risk of CVD mortality than the patients without AF in the fully adjusted model. Therefore, the burden of AF among hypertensive elderly population in northeast China was considerable. Long‐term screening and management strategies for AF and related risk factors are required among hypertensive elderly in northeast China.
Two IRT Characteristic Curve Linking Methods Weighted by Information
Authors: Wang Shaojie , Zhang Minqiang , Lee Won‐Chan , Huang Feifei , Li Zonglong , Li Yixing , Yu Sufang
Published: April 2022

Traditional IRT characteristic curve linking methods ignore parameter estimation errors, which may undermine the accuracy of estimated linking constants. Two new linking methods are proposed that take into account parameter estimation errors. The item‐ (IWCC) and test‐information‐weighted characteristic curve (TWCC) methods employ weighting components in the loss function from traditional methods by their corresponding item and test information, respectively. Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to evaluate the performances of the new linking methods and compare them with traditional ones. Ability difference between linking groups, sample size, and test length were manipulated under the common‐item nonequivalent groups design. Results showed that the two information‐weighted characteristic curve methods outperformed traditional methods, in general. TWCC was found to be more accurate and stable than IWCC. A pseudo‐form pseudo‐group analysis was also performed, and similar results were observed. Finally, guidelines for practice and future directions are discussed.
The effects of storage temperature, food, and humidity on survival and progeny of Neoseiulus bicaudus
Authors: Tang Si‐Qiong , Su Jie , Cai Zhi‐Ping , Hu Heng‐Xiao , Fang Chen , Chen Jing , Zhang Jian‐Ping
Published: April 2022

Neoseiulus bicaudus Wainstein (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is a beneficial predatory mite to control spider mites. To evaluate the suitable storage conditions of N. bicaudus, the survival of adult females was observed under different combinations of low temperature (3, 6, 9, or 12°C), food (F) or no food (NF), and high (H) or low (L) humidity conditions for 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 d. Predator mites’ longevity and survival time of 50% and 80% individuals (ST50,80) were measured and compared between treatments. After storage, female and male living mites were paired at 26°C. The progeny parameters were evaluated after storage. Results revealed that survival rate decreased as storage temperature decreased. At 3 and 6°C, fewer mites survived after 28 d. At 9°C, ~50% of the females survived in the FH treatment after 35 d. At 12°C, >80% survived 7–35 d in the FH treatment. Moreover, longevity and ST50,80 were significantly greater in the FH treatment than in the FL or NFH treatments at 3, 9, and 12°C. The highest longevity (48.6 ± 3.7 d) and ST50 (51.6 d) occurred at 12°C in the FH treatment. There was no effect on progeny hatching or survival rates when adults were stored at 9 or 12°C for 28 d. At 9°C, the total preadult development time was 4.20–5.25 d. At 12°C, the total development time was 4.87–4.93 d and there was no significant difference between the storage treatment and control group. These results demonstrated that N. bicaudus females can be successfully stored at 9°C for ~21 d and 12°C for ~28 d with little effect on adult survival or progeny parameters.
The effect of primary care clinician type and care team characteristics on health care costs
Authors: Bernard Matthew E. , Halasy Michael P. , Rushlow David R. , Sobolik Gerald J. , Garrison Gregory M. , Matthews Marc R. , Allen Summer V. , Thacher Thomas D.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To evaluate health care costs as a function of assigned primary care clinician type and care team characteristics.

Methods

Administrative data were collected for 68 family medicine clinicians (40 physicians and 28 nurse practitioners [NPs]/physician assistant [PAs]), on 11 care teams (variable MD, NP and PA on teams), caring for 77,141 patients. We performed a generalized linear mixed multivariable regression model of standardized per member per month (PMPM) median cost as the outcome, with four practice sites included as random effects.

Results

In bivariate analysis, cost was higher in physicians than NP/PAs, in more complex patients, and associated with emergency department (ED) visit rate. On multivariate analysis, patient complexity, ED visit rate and higher patient experience ratings were independently associated with greater PMPM cost. More time in practice was associated with lower PMPM cost. In the adjusted multivariate model, physicians had 8.3% lower median PMPM costs than NP/PAs (p = 0.046).

Conclusions

The primary drivers of greater PMPM cost were patient complexity, ED visits and patient satisfaction.
Study on microbial community and physicochemical properties of braised chicken during processing and storage microbial community of braised chicken
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Ma Xinxiu , Li Xinyu , Bi Jingran , Zhang Gongliang , Hao Hongshun , Hou Hongman
Published: April 2022

Braised chicken is a popular meat product with an attractive appearance, delicious taste, and rich nutrition. High‐throughput sequencing technology (HTS) was utilized to comprehensively characterize the dynamics of the microbial community during processing and storage (4°C). The physicochemical properties (pH, moisture content, total volatile base nitrogen (TVB‐N), and the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)) and colony counts were also evaluated. The microbial community of braised chicken was different between processing and storage. Weissella and Psychrobacter were the dominant genera during processing; Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Aeromonas, and Aneurinibacillus were the dominant genera in storage. The microbial counts (total viable count [TVC], Pseudomonas, LAB, and Enterobacteriaceae) decreased gradually during hot working processing, but increased during storage. After the warranty, TVC and Enterobacteriaceae counts exceeded the limit for cooked meat products. TBARS and TVB‐N increased from 0.089 to 0.400 mg/kg and 0.52 to 2.03 mg/kg, respectively, during processing and storage, and TVB‐N content exceeded the limit of cooked meat products after the warranty. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, and Aeromonas were significantly positively correlated with the spoilage index (TVB‐N and TBARS). Amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were also significantly positively correlated with them，indicating that Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, and Aeromonas may be the main microorganisms that cause spoilage of braised chicken. This study revealed the possible spoilage microorganisms of braised chicken during processing and storage, which was helpful to improve the quality and safety of braised chicken.
Functional dyspepsia symptom diary is correlated with other questionnaires and associated with severity in patients with functional dyspepsia: a multicenter, prospective observational study
Authors: Shi Xin , Luo Hui , Wang Xiangping , Ren Gui , Zhang Linhui , Tao Qin , Liang Shuhui , Liu Na , Huang Xiaojun , Zhang Xiaoyin , Deng Hui , Qin Wei , Kang Xiaoyu , Pan Yanglin , Fan Daiming
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim

Functional dyspepsia symptom diary (FDSD) is a newly designed questionnaire of functional dyspepsia (FD). The relationships between FDSD and other FD‐related questionnaires and patient‐reported severity remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the correlations between FDSD and other questionnaires and to determine the relationships between FDSD and FD severity.

Methods

Consecutive outpatients with FD were prospectively enrolled in four tertiary hospitals. All patients were evaluated by six FD‐related questionnaires, including FDSD, Dyspepsia Symptom Severity Index (DSSI), Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, Short‐Form Nepean Dyspepsia Index, and Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Scale (HAMD and HAMA). The severity of FD was also graded as mild, moderate, and severe by patients themselves. Correlations between different scores were assessed by Spearman correlation coefficient (ρ), and risk factors for patient‐reported severity were identified.

Results

For 512 enrolled FD patients, the overall median FDSD score was 19 (2–42). FDSD was well correlated with DSSI (ρ = 0.64) and fairly correlated with the other four scores (ρ = 0.32–0.55) (all P < 0.001). Mild, moderate, and severe FD were reported by 18.5%, 55.9%, and 25.6% of patients, respectively. There were seven factors associated with the severe FD, including education level, duration, and subtypes of FD, prior treatment, FDSD, HAMD, and HAMA scores (all P < 0.10). FDSD ≥ 20 (odds ratio [OR] 3.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.0–5.2, P < 0.001) and HAMD ≥ 13 (OR 2.9, 95% CI: 1.8–4.6, P < 0.001) were independently associated with patient‐reported severe FD.

Conclusions

This study firstly revealed that the newly developed FDSD correlated with other FD‐related questionnaires. FDSD ≥ 20 and HAMD ≥ 13 were independently associated with severe FD reported by patients (clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT04953975).
Effectiveness of colonic stent placement for obstructive colorectal cancers: An analysis of short‐term results using a nationwide database in Japan
Authors: Moroi Rintaro , Tarasawa Kunio , Shimoyama Yusuke , Kuroha Masatake , Shiga Hisashi , Kakuta Yoichi , Fushimi Kiyohide , Fujimori Kenji , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Masamune Atsushi
Published: April 2022

Background and Aims

Self‐expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is widely used for obstructive colorectal cancer (OCC). Both SEMS and urgent surgery have several merits and demerits. This study aimed to clarify the efficacy of SEMS by comparing the mortality rate after the hospitalization between SEMS and urgent surgery for OCC.

Methods

We collected OCC patients' data using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination (DPC) database system. We divided eligible patients into the SEMS and urgent surgery groups using propensity score matching and compared in‐hospital death rates, length of hospitalization, and medical costs. We also conducted logistic regression analysis to identify clinical factors affecting in‐hospital deaths.

Results

We enrolled 17 140 cases after propensity score matching. SEMS reduced the in‐hospital death rate compared with urgent surgery (2.0% vs 3.6%, P < 0.0001). Length of hospitalization was shorter in the SEMS group than in the urgent surgery group (16 vs 25 days, P < 0.0001). Medical costs were lower in the SEMS group than in the urgent surgery group (1 663 550 vs 2 424 082 JPY, P < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis also showed that SEMS reduced in‐hospital death (odds ratio = 0.58, 95% confidence interval: 0.50–0.70, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Self‐expandable metallic stent placement for OCC might reduce the mortality rate in short term and shorten the length of hospitalization. These results facilitate considering SEMS with careful judgment for its indication when treating OCC patients.
Cost‐effectiveness of risk‐tailored screening strategy for colorectal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Wang Le , Liu Chengcheng , Wang Youqing , Du Lingbin
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim

Though one‐size‐fits‐all age‐based screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) is effective in reducing the incidence and mortality, the evidence regarding on personized screening based on individual risk factors has been growing. The study aimed to perform a systematic review to synthesize economic evidence of risk‐tailored CRC screening strategies.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in EMBASE, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Econlit, and National Institute for Health Research Economic Evaluation Database from inception to June 30, 2021. We calculated the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) of cost per life year or quality‐adjusted life year gained for the risk‐tailored screening compared with no screening or uniform screening. A strategy was cost‐effective with less cost and equal or more effectiveness than the comparator along with lower ICER than the willingness‐to‐pay threshold.

Results

Our review finally comprised seven studies. Five studies reported the results of comparisons of risk‐tailored CRC screening with no screening, and supported that risk‐tailored screening was cost‐effective. All of seven studies reported the ICERs of risk‐tailored screening and age‐based screening. Disparities in the discrimination of risk‐prediction tool, accuracy of adopted techniques, uptake rate of screening and cost estimation impacted the cost‐effectiveness.

Conclusions

Studies on the economic evaluation of risk‐tailored CRC screening are limited, and current evidence is not sufficient to support the replacement of risk‐tailored screening for traditional age‐based screening.
Circular RNA circ_0065378 upregulates tumor suppressor candidate 1 by competitively binding with miR‐4701‐5p to alleviate colorectal cancer progression
Authors: Yan Dongsheng , Liu Weidong , Liu Yeliu , Zhu Xinguo
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim

Colorectal cancer (CRC), the third most lethal human cancer worldwide, seriously threatens human health and life. Numerous circular RNAs (circRNAs) including circ_PLXNB1 (hsa_circ_0065378) have been confirmed to be dysregulated in CRC by RNA‐seq analysis. We aimed to explore the functional role of circ_PLXNB1 in CRC malignant behaviors and clarify its potential molecular mechanism.

Methods

Gene expression levels of circ_PLXNB1 and miR‐4701‐5p were determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. MTT and Transwell assays were conducted to measure cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Protein expression of tumor suppressor candidate 1 (TUSC1), E‐cadherin and N‐cadherin was determined by western blot analysis. Mouse xenograft models were used to investigate the role of circ_PLXNB1 in tumor growth.

Results

The results showed that gene expression of circ_PLXNB1 in CRC tissues was significantly downregulated. Overexpression of circ_PLXNB1 inhibited the malignant behaviors of CRC cells, as manifested by the decrease in cell proliferation, cell invasion, migration, and EMT. Mechanistically, circ_PLXNB1 exerted its functional effects by binding with miR‐4701‐5p. Moreover, TUSC1 siRNA partially abolished the suppressive effect of the miR‐4701‐5p inhibitor or circ_PLXNB1 on CRC cell malignant behaviors.

Conclusions

Circ_PLXNB1 attenuated CRC progression by binding with miR‐4701‐5p to overexpress TUSC1, indicating that the circ_PLXNB1/miR‐4701‐5p/TUSC1 axis might be a potential novel molecular target in CRC diagnosis and therapy.
Exacerbation of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced enteropathy in C‐C chemokine receptor type 7‐deficient mice
Authors: Yamaguchi Toshio , Iijima Hideki , Yoshihara Takeo , Tani Mizuki , Otake Yuriko , Iwatani Shuko , Amano Takahiro , Tashiro Taku , Kurahashi Tomohide , Inoue Takanori , Tsujii Yoshiki , Hayashi Yoshito , Inoue Takahiro , Motooka Daisuke , Nakamura Shota , Shinzaki Shinichiro , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induce intestinal enteropathy and the pathophysiology is related to immune‐mediated mechanisms. We aimed to investigate the role of C‐C chemokine receptor type 7 (CCR7) which regulates immune cell migration in NSAID‐induced enteropathy.

Methods

Injury of the small intestine was evaluated 24 h after the subcutaneous injection of indomethacin in CCR7‐deficient (Ccr7−/−) and wild‐type (WT) mice. The cellular profile and cytokine production in intestinal cells were analyzed. Indomethacin‐induced enteropathy was evaluated in mice adoptively transferred with CD103+ dendritic cells (DCs) from Ccr7−/− or WT mice.

Results

Indomethacin induced more severe intestinal injury in Ccr7−/− mice than in WT mice. The major inflammatory cytokines were not increased and the proportion of regulatory T cells following indomethacin injection was not decreased in Ccr7−/− mice compared with WT mice. The expression of interleukin (IL)‐22 binding protein (IL‐22BP), which inhibits IL‐22 activity, was significantly higher in CD103+ DCs from Ccr7−/− mice than those from WT mice. Mice adoptively transferred with CD103+ DCs isolated from Ccr7−/− mice exhibited more severe intestinal injury following indomethacin injection compared with those adoptively transferred with CD103+ DCs of WT mice. Ccr7−/− mice injected with indomethacin showed a significant reduction in regenerating islet‐derived 1 (Reg1) mRNA expression, which is regulated by IL‐22, in intestinal epithelial cells.

Conclusions

C‐C chemokine receptor type 7 deficiency exacerbated NSAID‐induced enteropathy in association with an altered phenotype of CD103+ DCs that produces IL‐22BP. CCR7 contributes to protect the small intestine from NSAID‐induced mucosal injury.