bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and application of data analytics in an internet-of-things enabled warehouse
Authors: Arumsari Silvia Sagita , Aamer Ammar
Published: August 2021

Purpose

While several warehouses are now technologically equipped and smart, the implementation of real-time analytics in warehouse operations is scarcely reported in the literature. This study aims to develop a practical system for real-time analytics of process monitoring in an internet-of-things (IoT)-enabled smart warehouse environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A modified system development research process was used to carry out this research. A prototype system was developed that mimicked a case company’s actual warehouse operations in Indonesia’s manufacturing companies. The proposed system relied heavily on the utilization of IoT technologies, wireless internet connection and web services to keep track of the product movement to provide real-time access to critical warehousing activities, helping make better, faster and more informed decisions.

Findings

The proposed system in the presented case company increased real-time warehousing processes visibility for stakeholders at different management levels in their most convenient ways by developing visual representation to display crucial information. The numerical or textual data were converted into graphics for ease of understanding for stakeholders, including field operators. The key elements for the feasible implementation of the proposed model in an industrial area were discussed. They are strategic-level components, IoT-enabled warehouse environments, customized middleware settings, real-time processing software and visual dashboard configuration.

Research limitations/implications

While this study shows a prototype-based implementation of actual warehouse operations in one of Indonesia’s manufacturing companies, the architectural requirements are applicable and extensible by other companies. In this sense, the research offers significant economic advantages by using customized middleware to avoid unnecessary waste brought by the off-the-shelves generic middleware, which is not entirely suitable for system development.

Originality/value

This research’s finding contributes to filling the gap in the limited body of knowledge of real-time analytics implementation in warehousing operations. This should encourage other researchers to enhance and develop the devised elements to enrich smart warehousing’s theoretical knowledge. Besides, the successful proof-of-concept implementation reported in this research would allow other companies to gain valuable insights and experiences.
Contribution of green manufacturing for realizing business performance in Indian small and medium scale organizations (SME’s)
Authors: Singh Mahakdeep , Singh Kanwarpreet , Sethi Amanpreet Singh
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The current manuscript is focused on evaluating the capabilities of green practices that affect various business performance (BP) parameters of small and medium scale Indian manufacturing enterprises (SME’s). This study aims to obtain multiple significant factors that influence the implementation of green practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The manuscript focuses on statistical testing of responses obtained from 168 Indian SMEs to determine the relationship between input parameters and BP parameters. This paper starts with deploying tests such as Cronbach alpha and inter-item covariance test to obtain confidence in data collected, followed by various statistical tests such as Pearson correlation, multiple regression, canonical correlation to extract various significant factors the study. Further Games-Howell post hoc test is deployed to evaluate the significant improvements in BP gained over a reasonable duration of time. Finally, a discriminant validity test is used to find out the success or failure of the organizations that participated in the survey.

Findings

This research contributes to the holistic effect of green manufacturing (GM) toward gaining improvements in terms of different BP parameters taken for the study. It has been found that various input factors such as customer attributes, adoption of new technology, social pressure and government pressure are the main parameters for GM implementation. Further, it is observed that those at the maturity phase of GM implementation are reaping higher benefits than the organizations at the transition and stability phase.

Originality/value

The current study has been accomplished in Indian SME manufacturing organizations to investigate the effects of GM implementation in the organization. Although research findings imply the effective use of green practices within the organization to reap BP parameters and improve the market’s competitive image, the study cannot be generalized and can be used as an insight for both academicians and end-users in understanding the overall achievements of GM.
Multi-level nursing workforce planning considering talent management in healthcare with a dynamic quantitative approach
Authors: Monazam Ebrahimpour Shila , Rahimnia Fariborz , Pooya Alireza , Pakdaman Morteza
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Workforce planning must answer how many workforces, in which positions, and talents, and when each organization is needed. To find the requirements workforce, organizations need to know the organizational position and talents pools. Clarifying the number of workforces required in each pool requires attention to workforce flows, including hiring, promotion, degradation, horizontal movement, and exiting the organization. It is a dynamic issue and must be addressed over several periods over a specific duration, which adds to the complexity. According to the talent management presented in this research, all the above complex questions are answered by applying the optimal control (OC) model according to talent management presented in this research.

Design/methodology/approach

This research presents a dynamic model by using a linear-quadratic optimal control model, which was solved by Pontryagin's maximum principle, to achieve an optimal number of workforce requirements for each of the positions of nursing services manager, supervisor, head nurses and nurses in the health sector according to the required talents in each position.

Findings

The results have shown that the target value of workforce numbers has been achieved in the planning period, and the validation test and sensitivity analysis justified the model by reaching the workforce planning targets.

Originality/value

This study provides a dynamic model for achieving quantitative workforce planning targets; the model presented in this manuscript has included an important qualitative factor, namely workforce talents. According to the authors' review, there is no comprehensive research devoted to workforce planning through optimal control models by attention to workforces skills.
The bonding hypothesis revisited: evidence from US class action lawsuits
Authors: Coy Jeffrey M. , Cao Kien D. , Nguyen Thuy T.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Consistent with an “absolute bonding hypothesis,” the benefits of listing on US exchanges experienced by cross-listed firms are accompanied by an increased risk of experiencing a spillover effect due to negative news within their industry. The purpose of this study is to test this form of the bonding hypothesis by analyzing the spillover effect to cross-listed firms when class action lawsuits are filed against their industry peers.

Design/methodology/approach

The bonding hypothesis is tested by analyzing the spillover effect to non-sued cross-listed firms of class action lawsuits brought against US domestic firms in the same industry. The spillover effect is identified using cumulative abnormal returns around lawsuit filing dates from 1996 to 2020. A sample of matched non-sued cross-listed and domestic peer firms is evaluated in a cross-sectional analysis to identify country and firm-level characteristics that mitigate the negative spillover effect to cross-listed firms.

Findings

While US firms realize significantly negative abnormal returns when class action suits are filed against their industry peers, the impact to cross-listed peers is statistically insignificant. In multivariate analyses, we show that the ability of cross-listed firms to avoid this negative spillover effect is stronger for firms with greater profitability that are headquartered in countries with better shareholder protections and governance characteristics.

Originality/value

Results suggest that cross-listed firms may have a level of immunization from the negative industry spillover effect of class action lawsuits and, thus, exhibit only “partial bonding” to the US market.
A fully matched dual stage CMOS power amplifier with integrated passive linearizer attaining 23 db gain, 40% PAE and 28 DBM OIP3
Authors: Gunasegaran Premmilaah , Rajendran Jagadheswaran , Mariappan Selvakumar , Yusof Yusman Mohd , Abdul Aziz Zulfiqar Ali , Kumar Narendra
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new linearization technique known as the passive linearizer technique which does not affect the power added efficiency (PAE) while maintaining a power gain of more than 20 dB for complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) power amplifier (PA).

Design/methodology/approach

The linearization mechanism is executed with an aid of a passive linearizer implemented at the gate of the main amplifier to minimize the effect of Cgs capacitance through the generation of opposite phase response at the main amplifier. The inductor-less output matching network presents an almost lossless output matching network which contributes to high gain, PAE and output power. The linearity performance is improved without the penalty of power consumption, power gain and stability.

Findings

With this topology, the PA delivers more than 20 dB gain for the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Band from 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz with a supply headroom of 1.8 V. At the center frequency of 2.45 GHz, the PA exhibits a gain of 23.3 dB with corresponding peak PAE of 40.11% at a maximum output power of 14.3 dBm. At a maximum linear output power of 12.7 dBm, a PAE of 37.3% has been achieved with a peak third order intermodulation product of 28.04 dBm with a power consumption of 50.58 mW. This corresponds to ACLR of – 20 dBc, thus qualifying the PA to operate for BLE operation.

Practical implications

The proposed technique is able to boost up the efficiency and output power, as well as linearize the PA closer to 1 dB compression point. This reduces the trade-off between linear output power and PAE in CMOS PA design.

Originality/value

The proposed CMOS PA can be integrated comfortably to a BLE transmitter, allowing it to reduce the transceiver’s overall power consumption.
Body mass index, HbA1c and serum C‐reactive protein are predictors of secondary failure in infliximab continuance for Japanese psoriasis patients: A hospital‐based retrospective case‐control study
Authors: Terui Hitoshi , Asano Masayuki , Shimada‐Omori Ryoko , Tsuchiyama Kenichiro , Takahashi Toshiya , Nasu‐Tamabuchi Mei , Hagiwara‐Takita Akiko , Kusakari Yoshiyuki , Ohtani Tomoyuki , Aiba Setsuya , Yamasaki Kenshi
Published: August 2021

Biologics has had a great impact on psoriasis treatment as well as the life of psoriasis patients. Infliximab (IFX), one of the biologics targeting tumor necrosis factor (TNF), is the first of the biologics introduced to Japanese psoriasis patients. Many patients had benefits of IFX from initial applications and sustained remission of skin lesions and arthritis. Some, however, fall into so‐called secondary failure, in which patients become less responsive to IFX when the treatment is repeated. The mechanism of secondary failure and the background of patients with secondary failure have not been completely elucidated. To address this issue, we retrospectively evaluated psoriasis patients treated with IFX in our department. In this retrospective, single‐center, case‐control study based on the clinical record, a total of 34 patients were enrolled. We excluded 7 patients who discontinued IFX because of adverse events of IFX. We divided other 27 patients into two groups; 16 patients who kept using IFX (Continuance group); and 11 patients who switched to other treatments (Discontinuance group). Among various clinical features, body mass index (BMI), HbA1c, and serum CRP level were significantly higher in the Discontinuance group than the Continuance group. The results indicated that these three clinical features of BMI, HbA1c and serum CRP level before treatment are the predictors of successful IFX treatment and suggest that improvement of metabolic conditions contributes to avoiding secondary failure and discontinuance of IFX.
Sex estimation of the subadult ilium prior to acetabular fusion
Authors: Garvin Heather M. , Stock Michala K. , Marciniec Katherine A. , Mohamed Merna M. , Ternent Elizabeth , Cirillo Laura E. , Stull Kyra E.
Published: August 2021

Previous studies evaluating sexual dimorphism in subadult pelvic features present variable, and at times conflicting, conclusions. As a result, there is yet to be a consensus on whether the subadult pelvis can be used in sex estimation methods. This study aims to assess the forensic utility of ilium shape and greater sciatic notch morphology in sexing subadult pelves prior to acetabular fusion. A sample of 397 modern U.S. individuals with unfused acetabula (i.e., tri‐radiate cartilages) aged birth to 14 years was queried from a larger sample of postmortem computed tomography scans. Elliptical Fourier analyses were performed on ilium and greater sciatic notch outlines and resultant PCs were evaluated for significant effects of sex and age. Greater sciatic notch metrics were also collected. Stepwise linear discriminant function analyses with leave‐one‐out cross‐validation were performed on the PCs and metric variables. Analyses were performed on pooled samples, on age‐specific cohort samples, and on samples that iteratively removed the youngest one‐year cohort. Cross‐validated correct classification rates ranged from 57% to 65% and no patterns were observed to support an appearance and/or consistent expression of sexually diagnostic traits. Based on the results, sex estimation using these features is not recommended in pelvic remains prior to acetabular fusion, although the sample sizes of individuals over 5 years of age were limited in this study. Future studies should focus on the sexually diagnostic ability of pelvic traits in subadult samples post‐fusion of the acetabulum.
Misleading medical literature: An observational study
Authors: Olaussen Alexander , Abetz Jeremy , Qin Kirby R , Mitra Biswadev , O'Reilly Gerard
Published: August 2021

Objective

Language that implies a conclusion not supported by the evidence is common in the medical literature. The hypothesis of the present study was that medical journal publications are more likely to use misleading language for the interpretation of a demonstrated null (i.e. chance or not statistically significant) effect than a demonstrated real (i.e. statistically significant) effect.

Methods

This was an observational study of the medical literature with a systematic sampling method. Articles published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, The Lancet and The New England Journal of Medicine over the last two decades were eligible. The language used around the P‐value was assessed for misleadingness (i.e. either suggesting an effect existed when a real effect did not exist or vice versa).

Results

There were 228 unique manuscripts examined, containing 400 statements interpreting a P‐value proximate to 0.05. The P‐value was between 0.036 and 0.050 for 303 (75.8%) statements and between 0.050 and 0.064 for 97 (24.3%) statements. Forty‐four (11%) of the statements were misleading. There were 40 (41.2%) false‐positive sentences, implying statistical significance when the P‐value was >0.05, and four (1.3%) false‐negative sentences, implying no statistical significance when the P‐value <0.05 (relative risk 31.2; 95% confidence interval 11.5–85.1; P < 0.0001). The proportion of included manuscripts containing at least one misleading sentence was 16.2% (95% confidence interval 12.0–21.6).

Conclusions

Among a random selection of sentences in prestigious journals describing P‐values close to 0.05, 1 in 10 are misleading (n = 44, 11%) and this is more prevalent when the P‐values are above 0.05 compared to below 0.05. Caution is advised for researchers, clinicians and editors to align with the context and purpose of P‐values.
Preferences, personality, aspirations, and farmer behavior
Authors: Knapp Ladina , Wuepper David , Finger Robert
Published: August 2021

There is a growing literature that incorporates not only economic preferences, such as risk preferences, but also personality and aspirations into economic choice models. Here, we investigate how these concepts relate to each other and can explain observed economic choices. More specifically, we explore the role of risk preferences, personality (self‐efficacy and locus of control), and aspirations for farmers’ choices to adopt preventive measures against pests, buy cropinsurance, and to be entrepreneurially active. To this end, a sample of 568 Swiss fruit growers is analyzed. We find that for the adoption of preventive measures against pests, the best predictors are the farmers’ locus of control and their aspirations. For crop insurance demand, all behavioral variables, and especially risk preferences, contribute to explain farmers’ choices. For farmers’ entrepreneurial choice, we find that locus of control and their risk preferences are the best predictors. Our results reveal considerable domain specificity of preferences, personality, and aspirations in economic choice models.
Decline in Sars‐CoV‐2 antibodies over 6‐month follow‐up in obstetrical healthcare workers
Authors: Kiefer Miranda K. , Allen Kenneth D. , Russo Jessica R. , Ma'ayeh Marwan , Gee Stephen E. , Kniss Doug , Cackovic Michael , Costantine Maged M. , Rood Kara M.
Published: August 2021

Problem

Limited data exists on the temporal trend of the Sars‐CoV‐2 immunologic response and duration of protection following natural infection. We sought to investigate the presence and duration of Sars‐CoV‐2 serum antibodies in obstetrical healthcare workers (HCW) on serial assessments over a 6‐month period, and to assess rates of vaccine acceptance and reported vaccine side effects among this cohort.

Method of study

A prospective cohort study of a convenience sample of obstetrical HCWs at a tertiary hospital. Serum Sars‐CoV‐2 antibodies for Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) were measured longitudinally at four intervals: baseline, 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months. Participants completed voluntary surveys on COVID19 testing, high‐risk exposures, vaccine acceptance, and vaccine side effects.

Results

One hundred twenty‐six of 150 (84%) HCWs who volunteered for participation completed all four blood draws. Prevalence of seropositive HCWs based on positive Sars‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies increased from 2% at baseline to 31% at 12 weeks but declined to 21% by 6 months. Forty‐two percent (19/43) of the participants considered seropositive for Sars‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies at any of the initial three blood draws converted to seronegative status at the 6‐month follow‐up. Eighty‐seven percent (72/83) of participants who responded to a follow‐up survey were willing to accept the COVID19 vaccine. Rates of acceptance did not differ by participant antibody status. Those that experienced symptoms with the first injection were more likely to have positive Sars‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies (36.8% vs. 9.6%, p = .01).

Conclusion

Sars‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies wane over time and may not provide prolonged and robust immune protection. This underscores the importance of vaccination and continued research in this area while the COVID19 pandemic continues.
Advances in allergen‐specific immune cell measurements for improved detection of allergic sensitization and immunotherapy responses
Authors: van Zelm Menno C. , McKenzie Craig I. , Varese Nirupama , Rolland Jennifer M. , O’Hehir Robyn E.
Published: August 2021

Over the past two decades, precision medicine has advanced diagnostics and treatment of allergic diseases. Component‐resolved analysis of allergen sensitization facilitates stratification of patients. Furthermore, new formulations of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) products can more effectively deliver the relevant components. Molecular insights from the identification of allergen component sensitization and clinical outcomes of treatment with new AIT formulations can now be utilized for a deeper understanding of the nature of the pathogenic immune response in allergy and how this can be corrected by AIT. Fundamental in these processes are the allergen‐specific B and T cells. Within the large B‐ and T‐cell compartments, only those that specifically recognize the allergen with their immunoglobulin (Ig) or T‐cell receptor (TCR), respectively, are of clinical relevance. With peripheral blood allergen‐specific B‐ and T‐cell frequencies below 1%, bulk cell analysis is typically insufficiently sensitive. We here review the latest technologies to detect allergen‐specific B and T cells, as well as new developments in utilizing these tools for diagnostics and therapy monitoring to advance precision medicine for allergic diseases.
Global change, novel ecosystems and the ecological restoration of post‐industrial areas: The case of a former brown coal mine in Søby, Denmark
Authors: Conradi Timo , Henriksen Maria V.J. , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: August 2021

Questions

Can multi‐decadal vegetation changes in a decommissioned brown coal mine be attributed to global‐change forcing? Given novel drivers of community assembly and ongoing global change, what are sensible restoration goals and strategies for large post‐industrial areas?

Location

A decommissioned brown coal mine near Søby, central Denmark (56°01′45′′ N, 9°04′4′′ E).

Methods

We resurveyed the plant communities of the mine 31 years after an initial survey. Changes in the prevalence of exotic species and species indicator values for environmental conditions were used to link the observed vegetation changes to global change factors.

Results

The plant communities, including their unmined reference sites, changed over the 31‐year period toward plant communities with higher proportions of exotics, nitrophilous, warmth‐ and moisture‐indicating species, and species of low foraging quality for deer. The changes are consistent with the novel drivers of community assembly at the site, such as the introduction of exotic species, increased nitrogen deposition, elevated temperatures, steadily increasing groundwater level post mining, and the massive comeback of red deer.

Conclusions

The global‐change forcing of novel plant communities suggests that it is becoming increasingly difficult to restore historical references. It may thus be more sensible to acknowledge novelty and adopt an open‐ended approach for the restoration of this and similar post‐industrial areas, e.g. using rewilding principles to promote biodiverse self‐sustaining ecosystems.
Effect of gastric pH and of a moderate CYP3A4 inducer on the pharmacokinetics of daridorexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist
Authors: Gehin Martine , Wierdak Jolanta , Sabattini Giancarlo , Sidharta Patricia N. , Dingemanse Jasper
Published: August 2021

Aims

Daridorexant is a dual orexin receptor antagonist developed for the treatment of insomnia. The solubility of daridorexant is pH‐dependent and daridorexant has been shown to be a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate when co‐administered with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of an increased gastric pH on daridorexant pharmacokinetics (PK) and the extent of interaction when daridorexant is co‐administered with a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.

Methods

In this prospective, single‐centre, randomized, open‐label study, 24 male subjects consecutively received four treatments, i.e., daridorexant 50 mg single dose; famotidine 40 mg single dose + daridorexant 50 mg single dose; efavirenz 600 mg once a day (o.d.) for 10 days; and daridorexant 50 mg single dose + efavirenz 600 mg o.d. for 2 days. Plasma PK parameters of daridorexant were derived by noncompartmental analysis. Standard safety and tolerability evaluations were analysed descriptively.

Results

When daridorexant administration was preceded by administration of famotidine, daridorexant Cmax decreased by 39%, geometric means ratio (GMR) (90% confidence interval [90% CI]): 0.61 (0.50, 0.73). AUC0‐∞ remained unchanged. In the presence of steady‐state efavirenz, daridorexant Cmax, AUC0‐∞ and t½ decreased by approximately 35% (GMR [90% CI]): 0.65 (0.54, 0.78), 61% (0.39 (0.348, 0.44), and 35% (0.65 (0.58, 0.73), respectively. tmax remained unaffected. All treatments containing daridorexant were well tolerated.

Conclusion

Daridorexant 50 mg can be administered concomitantly with gastric pH modifiers or with moderate CYP3A4 inducers without dose adaptation based on efficacy observed at lower doses in Phase 3 studies.
Psychosocial interventions and needs among individuals and families with Li‐Fraumeni syndrome: A scoping review
Authors: Barnett Marie , Breen Kelsey E. , Kennedy Jennifer A. , Hernandez Marisol , Matsoukas Konstantina , MacGregor Meredith
Published: August 2021

Li‐Fraumeni syndrome (LFS), a rare cancer predisposition syndrome caused by germline mutations in the TP53 gene, is associated with significant lifetime risk of developing cancer and warrants extensive and long‐term surveillance. There are psychosocial impacts on individuals and families living with this condition, from the initial diagnosis throughout multiple stages across the lifespan, but these impacts have not been systematically reviewed and organized. The objective of this scoping review was to synthesize and characterize the literature on psychosocial screening and outcomes, educational needs, support services, and available interventions for patients and families with LFS. A systematic search of six databases was most recently conducted in August 2020: (PubMed/MEDLINE (NLM), EMBASE (Elsevier), Cochrane Library (Wiley), CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (OVID), and Web of Science (Clarivate Analytics). A total of 15 757 titles were screened, and 24 articles included. Several important themes were identified across studies: factors associated with TP53 genetic testing, LFS surveillance, psychological outcomes, and communication. Findings related to these themes were organized into age‐specific categories (age agnostic/across the lifespan, childhood, adolescence and young adulthood, and adulthood).
The hold‐up problem in China's broiler industry: Empirical evidence from Jiangsu Province
Authors: Tang Shufen , Zheng Yuqing , Li Taiping , Zhou Li
Published: August 2021

Using detailed survey data on broiler growers, we tested for the existence of hold‐up problems in the broiler industry in Jiangsu Province, China. We found that growers’ investments in chicken houses, which are assets with a high degree of physical and location specificity, increased along with the number of potential buyers (integrators) nearby. Such an effect was particularly strong in proximity to leading industry buyers. These results support the existence of hold‐ups in the Chinese broiler industry. However, we failed to find evidence that a longer‐term contract led to higher grower investments in chicken houses, possibly because of the lack of a minimum purchase guarantee in a typical contract. A key policy implication of this study is that subsidies to growers, from the government or buyers, can alleviate the underinvestment problem caused by hold‐ups.
Resonance frequency analysis of implants placed in condensed bone
Authors: Feher Balazs , Frommlet Florian , Gruber Reinhard , Hirtler Lena , Ulm Christian , Kuchler Ulrike
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) is used to monitor implant stability. Its output, the Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ), supposedly correlates with insertion torque, a common measurement of primary stability. However, the reliability of RFA in condensed bone remains unclear.

Material and methods

In this human cadaver study in edentulous jaws and fresh extraction sockets, implants were inserted using a split‐mouth approach into condensed or untreated bone. Mean ISQ, peak insertion torque, and pre‐ and postoperative bone volume fractions (BV/TV) were assessed.

Results

In edentulous jaws, insertion torque and ISQ correlated both in untreated (r = 0.63, p = 0.02) and in condensed (r = 0.82, p  < 0.01) bone. In extraction sockets, insertion torque and ISQ only correlated in untreated (r = 0.78, p < 0.01), but not in condensed bone (r = 0.15, p = 0.58). In all edentulous jaws, preoperative BV/TV correlated with insertion torque (r = 0.90, p < 0.0001), ISQ (r = 0.64, p < 0.001), and changes in BV/TV (r = –0.71, p < 0.01). In all extraction sockets, preoperative BV/TV did not correlate with either insertion torque (r = 0.33, p = 0.15), ISQ (r = 0.38, p = 0.09), or changes in BV/TV (r = –0.41, p = 0.09). Joint analysis identified preoperative BV/TV as a predictor of postoperative BV/TV (p < 0.001), insertion torque (p < 0.001), and ISQ (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

RFA is feasible for monitoring stability after late implant placement into condensed bone, but not after immediate placement into condensed fresh extraction sites.
In healthy subjects nasal nitric oxide does not correlate with olfactory sensitivity, trigeminal sensitivity, and nasal airflow
Authors: Mariano Marta , Drews Tanja , Hummel Thomas
Published: August 2021

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between nasal nitric oxide (nNO) and olfactory sensitivity, trigeminal sensitivity and nasal airflow in healthy subjects.

Study design

This is a correlational study.

Setting

This study was carried out in a tertiary referral centre.

Participants

Forty healthy participants were recruited.

Main outcome measures

nNO was measured using a chemiluminescence analyser (Niox Vero®, Circassia AB, Uppsala, Sweden), olfactory sensitivity was determined using phenyl ethyl alcohol odour thresholds using the ‘Sniffin’ Sticks’, trigeminal sensitivity was assessed with carbon dioxide delivered by an automated device, and nasal airflow was measured using the peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF).

Results

The median nNO was 518 ppb (IQR =333) in the right nostril, and it was 567 ppb (IQR = 314) in the left nostril. The median odour threshold was 7.1 (IQR = 4.4), the median CO2 threshold was 919 ms (IQR = 1297) and the mean PNIF was 108 L/min (SEM = 4.9). nNO did not correlate significantly with odour threshold, CO2 threshold or PNIF (Spearman's |ρ|  <0.15, p > .18).

Conclusion

In healthy subjects, nNO does not appear to be associated with olfactory sensitivity, trigeminal sensitivity and PNIF.
SupPoRtive Exercise Programmes for Accelerating REcovery after major ABdominal Cancer surgery trial (PREPARE‐ABC): Pilot phase of a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors:   the PREPARE‐ABC Trial Collaborative
Published: August 2021

Aim

PREPARE‐ABC is a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial including an internal pilot designed to assess the clinical and cost‐effectiveness of pre‐ and postoperative exercise in relation to short‐ and longer‐term postoperative recovery outcomes in colorectal cancer patients undergoing surgical resection. Here, we report on internal pilot phase data for the first 200 patients randomised to the trial, which included prespecified stop‐go criteria used to inform the decision to progress to the fully powered trial by the funder.

Methods

Eligible and consenting patients are randomly assigned (1:1:1) to hospital‐supervised exercise, home‐supported exercise or treatment as usual (TAU). Randomisation is concealed but clinical teams providing treatment and participants are unmasked. Primary outcomes are 30‐day morbidity (Clavien‐Dindo) and 12‐month health‐related quality of life (Medical Outcomes Study Health Questionnaire). Here, we present findings from the prespecified pilot phase which assessed feasibility of site set up, recruitment, adherence and acceptability of trial processes to patients and site staff.

Results

Between 9 November 2016 and 18 May 2018, 18 sites were set up, with 200 patients randomised to either hospital‐supervised exercise (68), home‐supported exercise (69) or treatment as usual (TAU) (63). Across the groups, 19 patients did not proceed to surgery or withdrew and 52% experienced a complication. Over half of the participants (57%) in the hospital‐supervised group attended ≥6 preoperative sessions and 50% attended ≥5 monthly postoperative exercise “booster sessions”. In the home‐supported group, 70% patients engaged with ≥2 telephone support sessions in the preoperative phase and 80% engaged in ≥5 monthly telephone support “booster sessions”. Adverse events were reported by 22 patients and three patients reported a serious adverse event. The majority of complications were Clavien‐Dindo grades 1–2; however, 16 patients experienced one or more Clavien‐Dindo grade 3–4 complication(s).

Conclusions

Results of the internal pilot phase confirm the feasibility of site set‐up and patient recruitment, representativeness of the sample population and adequate adherence to hospital‐supervised and home‐supported exercise. On the basis of these positive results, progression to the fully‐powered trial was authorised by the funder.
Earning a Seat at the Table: My Leadership Journey
Authors: Hopson Jordan
Published: August 2021

Build professional relationships rooted in trust, not just in friendship.

Want to become a leader who has real influence in your organization? Find out how the author leveraged five principles to do just that. Master them, and you can do it too!
Diffusion tensor imaging reveals neuronal microstructural changes in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Thapaliya Kiran , Marshall‐Gradisnik Sonya , Staines Donald , Barnden Leighton
Published: August 2021

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients suffer from a variety of physical and neurological complaints indicating the central nervous system plays a role in ME/CFS pathophysiology. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been used to study microstructural changes in neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we evaluated DTI parameters to investigate microstructural abnormalities in ME/CFS patients. We estimated DTI parameters in 25 ME/CFS patients who met Fukuda criteria (ME/CFSFukuda), 18 ME/CFS patients who met International Consensus Criteria (ICC) (ME/CFSICC) only and 26 healthy control (HC) subjects. In addition to voxel‐based DTI‐parameter group comparisons, we performed voxel‐based DTI‐parameter interaction‐with‐group regressions with clinical and autonomic measures to test for abnormal regressions. Group comparisons between ME/CFSICC and HC detected significant clusters (a) with decreased axial diffusivity (p = .001) and mean diffusivity (p = .01) in the descending cortico‐cerebellar tract in the midbrain and pons and (b) with increased transverse diffusivity in the medulla. The mode of anisotropy was significantly decreased (p = .001) in a cluster in the superior longitudinal fasciculus region. Voxel‐based group comparisons between ME/CFSFukuda and HC did not detect significant clusters. For ME/CFSICC and HC, DTI parameter interaction‐with‐group regressions were abnormal for the clinical measures of information processing score, SF36 physical, sleep disturbance score and respiration rate in both grey and white matter regions. Our study demonstrated that DTI parameters are sensitive to microstructural changes in ME/CFSICC and could potentially act as an imaging biomarker of abnormal pathophysiology in ME/CFS. The study also shows that strict case definitions are essential in investigation of the pathophysiology of ME/CFS.
MultifocalCoccidioides immitisin a donkey (Equus asinus)
Authors: Sorum M. , Wyckoff S. , Pastrana D.
Published: August 2021

This case report discusses the clinical signs, diagnostic findings, treatment and outcome for a donkey (Equus asinus) diagnosed with coccidioidomycosis. At presentation, the donkey was lame, was in poor body condition, had a draining tract over the left femur and was hyporexic. Further investigation of the draining tract via radiography and ultrasonography showed a focal lesion of extensive bony proliferation and lysis on the mid‐shaft of the left femur. There was also a soft tissue swelling over the fifth left rib. AGID titres were positive forCoccidioides immitis. Recommended treatment forC. immitisconsists of two antifungal classes, the azoles and amphotericin B, with this donkey being prescribed daily fluconazole. A recheck 3 months from initial diagnosis showed marked improvement of clinical signs, but theC. immitistitre remained unchanged. The 18‐month recheck showed improvement radiographically and significantly decreased titres. After 3 years of daily treatment of fluconazole, theC. immitistitre was decreased, but radiographs of the femur still showed persistent bony proliferation.
Arginine methylation in the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Qin Jian , Xu Jian
Published: August 2021

Epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal characteristics during embryonic development, wound healing, fibrosis, and in cancer in a processed termed epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Regulatory networks of EMT are controlled by post‐transcriptional, translational, and post‐translational mechanisms, in which arginine methylation is critically involved. Here, we review arginine methylation‐dependent mechanisms that regulate EMT in the aspects of signaling, transcriptional, and splicing regulation.
Mesenchymal stromal cell‐derived syndecan‐2 regulates the immune response during sepsis to foster bacterial clearance and resolution of inflammation
Authors: Han Junwen , Shi Yuanyuan , Willis Gareth , Imani Jewel , Kwon Min‐Young , Li Gu , Ayaub Ehab , Ghanta Sailaja , Ng Julie , Hwang Narae , Tsoyi Konstantin , El‐Chemaly Souheil , Kourembanas Stella , Mitsialis S. Alex , Rosas Ivan O. , Liu Xiaoli , Perrella Mark A.
Published: August 2021

Sepsis is a life‐threatening process related to a dysregulated host response to an underlying infection, which results in organ dysfunction and poor outcomes. Therapeutic strategies using mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are under investigation for sepsis, with efforts to improve cellular utility. Syndecan (SDC) proteins are transmembrane proteoglycans involved with cellular signaling events including tissue repair and modulating inflammation. Bone marrow‐derived human MSCs express syndecan‐2 (SDC2) at a level higher than other SDC family members; thus, we explored SDC2 in MSC function. Administration of human MSCs silenced for SDC2 in experimental sepsis resulted in decreased bacterial clearance, and increased tissue injury and mortality compared with wild‐type MSCs. These findings were associated with a loss of resolution of inflammation in the peritoneal cavity, and higher levels of proinflammatory mediators in organs. MSCs silenced for SDC2 had a decreased ability to promote phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils by macrophages in the peritoneum, and also a diminished capability to convert macrophages from a proinflammatory to a proresolution phenotype via cellular or paracrine actions. Extracellular vesicles are a paracrine effector of MSCs that may contribute to resolution of inflammation, and their production was dramatically reduced in SDC2‐silenced human MSCs. Collectively, these data demonstrate the importance of SDC2 for cellular and paracrine function of human MSCs during sepsis.
Niobate in silicate and phosphate glasses: Effect of glass basicity on crucible dissolution
Authors: Wójcik Natalia A. , Ali Sharafat , Kamitsos Efstratios I. , Möncke Doris
Published: August 2021

Using niobium crucibles for melting phosphate and silicate glasses of various modifier oxide contents, and therefore varying optical basicity (Λ), was found to result in varying dissolution rates of niobate during melting. Because of their high electronic polarizability, even small concentrations of niobates are detectable in the Raman spectra of glasses. Even <1 mol% Nb2O5can be identified, as independently confirmed by SEM‐EDX analysis. Silica‐rich glasses (~60% SiO2, Λ ~0.6) did not show significant Nb dissolution from the crucible, while higher basicity metasilicate glasses (~50% SiO2, Λ ~0.65) and pyrophosphate glasses (~30% P2O5, Λ ~0.7) did show the typical niobate signature in the Raman spectra at 810–840 cm−1, depending on composition. While niobium is well‐dissolved throughout the pyrophosphate glass, metasilicate glasses showed a much more intense Raman signature of niobate units near the outer surface of the glass. Measurements along the cross‐section of a fractured metasilicate glass showed a steady decrease of the strength of the niobate signature from the surface toward the bulk of the material. Besides correlation with optical basicity, the tendency of melts to dissolve Nb crucible was discussed in terms of the connectivity or polymerization of the network and the corresponding melt viscosity.
Defining motivation in video game‐based training: Exploring the differences between measures of motivation
Authors: Sanchez Diana R. , Nelson Tristan , Kraiger Kurt , Weiner Erik , Lu Yucheng , Schnall Jasmine
Published: August 2021

Game‐based training research has produced various definitions and measures for learner motivation. Inconsistent findings on learner motivation may have contributed to the misapplication of one type of motivation to explain another; inhibiting future research and generating false implications. This study compared 172 students in game‐based or computer‐based training learning French. Results showed unique relationships between three measures of learner motivation (i.e. motivation to learn, intrinsic motivation and engagement). Motivation to learn did not differ between conditions, while intrinsic motivation and engagement did. A significant portion of the variance in content reactions was explained by all three measures of motivation, while variance for technology reactions was explained only by the motivation to learn and engagement. None of the measures for motivation accounted for significant variance in declarative or procedural knowledge. Results indicate key differences in three measures of motivation.
The role and activities of the Traveller mental health liaison nurse: Findings from a multi‐stakeholder evaluation
Authors: O’Sullivan Karin , Brady Anne Marie , Downes Carmel , Higgins Agnes , Doyle Louise , McCann Thomas , Keogh Brian
Published: August 2021

Irish Travellers are a minority ethnic group within the Irish state with a distinct culture and set of traditions. Travellers experience mental health inequalities, high rates of mental ill health, and structural and individual barriers to mental health supports. A Traveller Mental Health Liaison Nurse (TMHLN) was introduced in a healthcare region in Ireland to provide greater mental health‐related support to Travellers. This paper presents a description of the TMHLN role following a multi‐stakeholder evaluation. The research design was descriptive qualitative and the findings are reported using COREQ criteria. Thirty‐four key stakeholders were interviewed individually or as part of focus groups. Thematic analysis generated two broad themes: the role context, and the specific activities of the role. Mental health nursing experience and understanding of local issues and services were key, as was use of language, building trusting relations, creating the metaphorical, and having the physical, space for working. Specific activities involved in‐reach and outreach work, including one‐to‐one mental health support provision, delivery of education/training sessions to Travellers and service providers, (re)establishing links to specialist services, integrated and interagency working, and promoting cultural competency. The findings set out a role with a greater emphasis on the use of recovery technologies, having an emphasis on psychosocial interventions and self‐care, and less focus on biomedical technologies, signs and symptoms, and clinical outcomes. This study contributes to knowledge on the role of a MHLN as this relates to working with marginalized minority groups.
Factors associated with xerostomia in perimenopausal women
Authors: Shinohara Chizuko , Ito Kayoko , Takamatsu Kiyoshi , Ogawa Mariko , Kajii Yuka , Nohno Kaname , Sugano Aki , Funayama Saori , Katakura Akira , Nomura Takeshi , Inoue Makoto
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Various oral symptoms, including xerostomia and burning mouth syndrome, may occur in menopausal women. These symptoms reduce quality of life (QOL). However, the actual condition of xerostomia after menopause is not clear. The purpose of this study was to reveal the factors associated with xerostomia in perimenopausal women.

Methods

Participants included 118 outpatients (mean age, 49.9 ± 3.2 years; range, 45–55 years) at a department of gynecology in Japan. Information was collected concerning age, medical history, medications, menstrual status, and history of treatment for climacteric symptoms. Oral symptoms, including xerostomia were evaluated with a 3‐point scale. The climacteric symptom checklist for Japanese women and 36‐Item Short‐Form Health were used to evaluate climacteric symptoms and QOL, respectively. In addition, the volume of unstimulated saliva, oral moisture, salivary α‐amylase, chromogranin A, and 17‐β estradiol were measured.

Results

Higher age, the total number of medications, psychotropic drug, hormone replacement therapy, treatment for climacteric symptoms, sticky mouth, burning sensation of tongue, dryness of nose and 14 of the 21 climacteric symptoms significantly affected xerostomia. In addition, treatment for climacteric symptoms, fall asleep but often awake at night, headaches and dryness of nose were significantly associated with xerostomia. In conclusion, xerostomia is closely associated to factors such as treatment for climacteric symptoms and certain menopausal symptoms, and it may be related to QOL in perimenopausal women.
Hypertransaminasemia and liver fibrosis associated with haptoglobin retention and anhaptoglobinemia in a paediatric patient
Authors: Gunzer Sophia , Kraus Andreas , Buchroth Inka , Grüneberg Marianne , Westermann Cordula , Biskup Saskia , Reunert Janine , Grünewald Inga , Marquardt Thorsten
Published: August 2021

Cryptogenic elevation of transaminases in childhood can in a few instances be linked to rare hereditary causes. In this paper, a 7‐year old girl is reported who was diagnosed with elevated transaminases of unknown origin since infancy. A liver biopsy showed bridging fibrosis, pale eosinophilic intracytoplasmic hepatocellular inclusions and enlarged endoplasmic reticulum cisternae in the hepatocytes. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a homozygous in‐frame deletion of 3 base pairs in the haptoglobin gene. The patient is anhaptoglobinemic measured by standard laboratory turbidometry, which was confirmed by Western Blotting and thereby shown to affect both protein chains of haptoglobin. A polyclonal antibody revealed haptoglobin retention in hepatocytes suggesting a defect in haptoglobin secretion. A novel, previously unknown haptoglobin storage disease is suspected to be the reason for the elevated liver enzymes and tissue abnormalities in this patient. The pathophysiology appears to be similar to endoplasmic reticulum storage diseases like alpha‐1‐antitrypsin‐deficiency.