bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reciprocity and alignment: quantifying coupling in dynamic interactions
Authors: Dumas Guillaume , Fairhurst Merle T.
Published: May 2021

Recent accounts of social cognition focus on
how
we do things together, suggesting that becoming aligned relies on a reciprocal exchange of information. The next step is to develop richer computational methods that quantify the degree of coupling and describe the nature of the information exchange. We put forward a definition of coupling, comparing it to related terminology and detail, available computational methods and the level of organization to which they pertain, presenting them as a hierarchy from weakest to richest forms of coupling. The rationale is that a temporally coherent link between two dynamical systems at the lowest level of organization sustains mutual adaptation and alignment at the highest level. Postulating that when we do things together, we do so dynamically over time and we argue that to determine and measure instances of true reciprocity in social exchanges is key. Along with this computationally rich definition of coupling, we present challenges for the field to be tackled by a diverse community working towards a dynamic account of social cognition.
Assessing risk in the retail environment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Budd C. , Calvert K. , Johnson S. , Tickle S. O.
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruption, particularly in retail. Where essential demand cannot be fulfilled online, or where more stringent measures have been relaxed, customers must visit shop premises in person. This naturally gives rise to some risk of susceptible individuals (customers or staff) becoming infected. It is essential to minimize this risk as far as possible while retaining economic viability of the shop. We therefore explore and compare the spread of COVID-19 in different shopping situations involving person-to-person interactions: (i) free-flowing, unstructured shopping; (ii) structured shopping (e.g. a queue). We examine which of (i) or (ii) may be preferable for minimizing the spread of COVID-19 in a given shop, subject to constraints such as the geometry of the shop; compliance of the population to local guidelines; and additional safety measures which may be available to the organizers of the shop. We derive a series of conclusions, such as unidirectional free movement being preferable to bidirectional shopping, and that the number of servers should be maximized as long as they can be well protected from infection.
Using a robotic platform to study the influence of relative tailbeat phase on the energetic costs of side-by-side swimming in fish
Authors: Li Liang , Ravi Sridhar , Xie Guangming , Couzin Iain D.
Published: May 2021

A potential benefit of swimming together in coordinated schools is to allow fish to extract energy from vortices shed by their neighbours, thus reducing the costs of locomotion. This hypothesis has been very hard to test in real fish schools, and it has proven very difficult to replicate the complex hydrodynamics at relevant Reynolds numbers using computational simulations. A complementary approach, and the one we adopt here, is to develop and analyse the performance of biomimetic autonomous robotic models that capture the salient kinematics of fish-like swimming, and also interact via hydrodynamic forces. We developed bio-inspired robotic fish which perform sub-carangiform locomotion, and measured the speed and power consumption of robots when swimming in isolation and when swimming side-by-side in pairs. We found that swimming side-by-side confers a substantial increase in both the speed and efficiency of locomotion of both fish regardless of the relative phase relationship of their body undulations. However, we also find that each individual can slightly increase their own power efficiency if they change relative tailbeat phase by approximately 0.25πwith respect to, and at the energetic expense of, their neighbour. This suggests the possibility of a competitive game-theoretic dynamic between individuals in swimming groups. Our results also demonstrate the potential applicability of our platform, and provide a natural connection between the biology and robotics of collective motion.
Self-similar solutions for high-energy density radiative transfer with separate ion and electron temperatures
Authors: Bennett William , McClarren Ryan G.
Published: May 2021

We consider a non-equilibrium plasma radiatively heated by an external source in the high-energy density regime. It is shown that self-similar solutions resembling the classic Marshak wave exist for the ion and electron temperatures, if the electron–ion coupling coefficient scales inversely proportional to either the time from when the heating begins or to the square of the distance from the surface of the plasma. We discuss how such a coupling coefficient may arise, and demonstrate that these solutions are also useful for verifying simulation codes that treat radiation–electron–ion coupling in high-energy density plasmas.
Do government expenditure reduce income inequality: evidence from developing and developed countries
Authors: Sidek Noor Zahirah Mohd
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to re-examine the impact of government expenditure on income inequality. Existing studies provide mixed results on whether government expenditure reduces or increases income inequality. In this paper, government expenditure is viewed as a tool for redistribution, hence, its impact on inequality is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 122 countries with 91 and 31 countries categorized as developing and developed countries is used. The dynamic panel threshold regression is used to examine the impact of government expenditure on income inequality and to estimate the turning point of the negative or positive effects.

Findings

The major findings suggest that, in general, government expenditure does reduce income inequality. Results from developed countries support the inversed U-shaped Kuznet curve where higher government expenditure initially led to more inequality but would eventually bring about a positive effect after a certain threshold level. For developing countries, education and development expenditure were the driving forces towards lower income inequality.

Practical implications

Several policy implications can be derived from this paper. First, government expenditure is a useful tool to alleviate the problem of income inequality. More integration with the global economy via trading activities is also an important channel to help reduce income inequality. Finally, better institutional quality provides an effective ecosystem in promoting better redistribution of income via government expenditure.

Originality/value

This paper presents a maiden attempt to estimate a threshold value or when government expenditure starts to reduce or increase income inequality. The sample is segregated into developed and developing countries to further control the effect of government size and the level of development of a country.
Knowledge management in local governments in developing countries: a systematic literature review
Authors: Ndiege Joshua Rumo Arongo , Backhouse Judy
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the state of research into knowledge management within local government in developing countries, to identify themes that have been studied and to identify important gaps in the literature that can inform a research agenda going forward.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured literature review method was used in this study. The authors reviewed academic literature published between 2009 and 2019. A total of 15 articles were identified and reviewed.

Findings

The findings reveal that, few authors have contributed to knowledge management within local government in developing countries and there is little international collaboration between authors. The authors found limited methodological and theoretical diversity and rigor in the reviewed work. The review identified themes that have been researched but evidenced a lack of guidelines and frameworks developed to promote knowledge management initiatives within local governments in developing countries. Overall, it was evident that this area was still little explored. As a result, there are many possibilities for future research.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive systematic literature review of papers published on knowledge management in local governments in developing countries, identifying themes that have been studied and gaps for further research.
Quantifying Australia’s Gender Superannuation Gap
Authors: Best Rohan , Saba Noura
Published: May 2021

This paper quantifies the factors contributing to Australia’s gender gap in superannuation balances. Around 60 per cent of the gap can be attributed to the prior stock of superannuation, for respondents who had superannuation balances in both 2014 and 2018 in the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey. This is partly due to the accumulation of the prior gap with investment returns. Financial literacy and risk aversion explain around 7 per cent of the gap in total, such as through impacts on subsequent investment returns. Work patterns and wage rates affect contributions and explain approximately 30 per cent of the superannuation gap in total.
An alternative approach to measuring the welfare implications of input subsidies: Evidence from Malawi
Authors: Gemessa Sinafikeh Asrat
Published: May 2021

Most studies that have evaluated the welfare impacts of agricultural input subsidy programmes (ISPs) in developing countries have focused on measuring their effects on various outcomes of interest such as agricultural productivity. I estimate the consumer surplus accrued by direct and indirect beneficiaries of ISPs in Malawi. Malawi's Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP), introduced in 2005, is the largest such scheme in sub‐Saharan Africa. I find that the programme provides low direct benefits compared to the public costs of the programme. At the national level, the benefit‐cost ratio (BCR) is up to 0.37 for FISP households with no option to resell the fertiliser accessed through the programme. When reselling of the fertiliser is allowed for, the BCR increases to 0.64 including spillover benefits to direct non‐beneficiaries of FISP. I also found 60% of all fertiliser vouchers and benefits accrued to farm households with above the median wealth level. Many farmers demand 25 kg of fertiliser or less at the subsidised price. Thus, when resource poor direct beneficiaries have the option to buy 25 kg bags of fertiliser in addition to the 50 kg bags currently being offered under FISP, their benefits increase by about 53% compared to the status quo. Overall, my results suggest that a more flexible redemption of the fertiliser vouchers as well as complementary investments such as improved access to credit could increase the programme's contribution to farmers’ welfare.
Quantifying variations in browsing pressure caused by feral deer for a range of threatened ecological communities and plant growth forms
Authors: Burns Heather , Gibbons Philip , Claridge Andrew
Published: May 2021

Globally, high‐density populations of feral deer have been associated with a range of negative ecological consequences. Within Australia, limited quantitative research has assessed the impacts of deer, particularly in threatened ecological communities (TECs). Our study aimed to quantify the impact of feral deer on the herbivory of a range of woody plant species, non‐woody growth forms and TECs; and assess whether feral deer increase herbivory in TECs above background rates caused by native herbivores. We surveyed 356 transects across 89 sites representing eight TECs and collected herbivory data for woody and non‐woody plants. At each site, we recorded the presence or absence of deer sign and abundance of macropod pellets to account for variations in herbivory between groups of sympatric species. Generalised linear mixed models were developed to predict: (i) proportion of individual plants browsed (or grazed); and (ii) average browsing (or grazing) intensity for woody plant species and non‐woody plants. Controlling for macropod abundance, we found the average grazing intensity and proportion of non‐woody plants grazed was higher when deer were present compared to absent. Specifically, grazing pressure on rushes, cycads, sedges and grasses was significantly higher where deer were present. In contrast, we did not observe a significant impact of deer on woody plant species. The presence of deer resulted in higher grazing intensity in coastal saltmarsh, freshwater wetland, littoral rainforest and bangalay sand forest TECs. Although the deer population across our study region generally appears to be at low density compared to neighbouring regions, their presence is resulting in grazing pressure above that caused by native herbivores for a range of non‐woody plants. Our results contribute to a growing body of research about the ecological impacts of feral deer in Australia and can be used as a baseline for ongoing regional monitoring of deer impacts in TECs.
Efficacy and safety of the Clearum dialyzer
Authors: Maduell Francisco , Broseta José Jesús , Rodríguez‐Espinosa Diana , Hermida‐Lama Evelyn , Cuadrado‐Payán Elena , Rodas Lida María , Gómez Miquel , Arias‐Guillén Marta , Fontseré Néstor , Vera Manel , Rico Nayra
Published: May 2021

The Clearum dialyzer, built by Medtronic, became commercially available in several European countries in 2020, but there are still no reports of in vivo data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and risk of hypoalbuminemia of this dialyzer compared with previously evaluated hemodialysis (HD), expanded hemodialysis (HDx), and postdilution hemodiafiltration (HDF) treatments. A prospective study was carried out in 15 patients. Each patient underwent seven dialysis sessions: FX80 Cordiax in HD, Clearum HS17 in HD, Phylther 17‐SD in HDx, Theranova 400 in HDx, Phylther 17‐G in postdilution HDF, Clearum HS17 in postdilution HDF, and FX80 Cordiax in postdilution HDF. The reduction ratios of urea, creatinine, ß2‐microglobulin, myoglobin, prolactin, α1‐microglobulin, α1‐acid glycoprotein, and albumin were compared intraindividually. Dialysate albumin loss was also measured. Comparison of dialysis techniques revealed no differences between small molecules, but HDx and HDF were significantly higher than HD with medium and large molecular weights. The Clearum dialyzer in HDF obtained similar results to FX80 Cordiax in HDF, was slightly superior to Phylther 17‐G in HDF, and was statistically superior to both dialyzers in HDx. Albumin losses with the Clearum dialyzer were among the lowest, both in HD and HDF treatments. The highest global removal score (GRS) values were obtained with the helixone and Clearum dialyzers in HDF, with similar results both in HD and HDF. In addition, the GRS values with HDx treatments were statistically significantly higher than those with HD. The new Clearum dialyzer has excellent behavior and tolerance in HD and HDF. Its adequate permeability has been proven with its maximal performance in HDF, which could represent an upgrade versus its predecessor polyphenylene dialyzers.
Non-organ-specific autoimmunity in adult 47,XXY Klinefelter patients and higher-grade X-chromosome aneuploidies
Authors: Panimolle Francesca , Tiberti Claudio , Spaziani Matteo , Riitano Gloria , Lucania Giuseppe , Anzuini Antonella , Lenzi Andrea , Gianfrilli Daniele , Sorice Maurizio , Radicioni Antonio F
Published: May 2021

Current literature regarding systemic autoimmune diseases in X-chromosome aneuploidies is scarce and limited to case reports. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency of anti-nuclear (ANAs), extractable nuclear (ENA), anti-double-stranded DNA (dsDNAs), anti-smooth muscle (ASMAs) and anti-mitochondrial (AMAs) antibodies in a large cohort of adults with Klinefelter's syndrome (KS, 47,XXY) and rare higher-grade sex chromosome aneuploidies (HGAs) for the first time. Sera from 138 X-chromosome aneuploid patients [124 adult patients with 47,XXY KS and 14 patients with HGA (six children, eight adults)] and 50 age-matched 46,XY controls were recruited from the Sapienza University of Rome (2007–17) and tested for ANAs, ENAs, anti-dsDNAs, ASMAs and AMAs. Non-organ-specific immunoreactivity was found to be significantly higher in patients with 47,XXY KS (14%) than in the controls (2%, p = 0.002). Among all the antibodies investigated, only ANAs were observed significantly more frequently in patients with 47,XXY KS (12.1%) than in the controls (2%, p = 0.004). No anti-dsDNA immunoreactivity was found. Stratifying by testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), non-organ-specific autoantibody frequencies were higher in TRT-naive (p = 0.01) and TRT-treated groups than in controls. No patients with HGA were found positive for the various autoantibodies. Non-organ-specific autoantibodies were significantly present in 47,XXY adult patients. Conversely, HGAs did not appear to be target of non-organ-specific immunoreactivity, suggesting that KS and HGAs should be considered as two distinct conditions. The classification and diagnosis of systemic autoimmune diseases is frequently difficult. To support a correct clinical evaluation of KS disease and to prevent eventual secondary irreversible immune-mediated damages, we highlight the importance of screening for non-organ-specific autoimmunity in Klinefelter's syndrome.
Clinical and histopathological evaluation of cutaneous angiofibromas
Authors: Nasimi Maryam , Kamyab Kambiz , Moradi Arezou , Dasdar Shayan , Kianfar Nika
Published: May 2021

Background

Angiofibromas are common benign skin lesions that are diagnosed clinically and histopathologically. Fibrous papule (FP) is one of the clinical types of angiofibromas located primarily on the nose.

Methods

The cases with the confirmed diagnosis of angiofibroma were enrolled. Demographic features of the patients and clinical characteristics of the lesions were extracted. Moreover, histopathological features of the available slides were microscopically reviewed.

Results

From 83 cases of cutaneous angiofibromas, 57 (69%) had lesions consistent with FP. The mean age at diagnosis was 37.7 ± 16.3 years and the most common site of involvement was the nose (53% of cases). Regarding the histopathological evaluation of 71 slides, most cases represented vascular changes (97%) and dermal fibroplasia (87%). Melanin incontinence (41%), acanthosis (31%), and lichenoid features (25%) were other common histopathological findings. Moreover, a sparse inflammatory cell infiltrate was present in 68% of cases. The most prevalent inflammatory cells were lymphocytes (61%) and histiocytes (34%).

Conclusion

This study presented the histopathological findings of a series of cutaneous angiofibromas. Dermatopathologists should be aware of these features, especially those that are less common, to better diagnose and differentiate them from malignant neoplasms.
Aufhebung des Unterlassungszwangs bei der Berufskrankheit Haut: Hintergründe und Perspektiven
Authors: Elsner Peter
Published: May 2021

Die Berufskrankheit (BK) Haut Nr. 5101 („schwere oder wiederholt rückfällige Hauterkrankungen, die zur Unterlassung aller Tätigkeiten gezwungen haben, die für die Entstehung, die Verschlimmerung oder das Wiederaufleben der Krankheit ursächlich waren oder sein können“) ist die am häufigsten angezeigte Berufskrankheit in Deutschland. Der seit 1936 für die Anerkennung dieser Berufskrankheit erforderliche medizinisch‐objektive Unterlassungszwang sollte nach dem Willen des Verordnungsgebers Bagatellerkrankungen abgrenzen, die Feststellung der beruflichen Kausalität erleichtern und die Prävention – zur Vermeidung des Unterlassungszwangs – fördern.

Die Abschaffung des Unterlassungszwangs als Kriterium für die Anerkennung der BK 5101 ab 01.01.2021 hat wesentliche Auswirkungen auf die berufsdermatologische Versorgung und Begutachtung dieser Berufskrankheit. Für „leichte“ Hautkrankheiten ist jedoch weiterhin das seit 1972 etablierte präventive Hautarztverfahren anzuwenden.
The Ramifications of COVID‐19 in Education: Beyond the Extension of the Kano Model and Unipolar View of Satisfaction and Dissatisfaction in the Field of Blended Learning
Authors: Um Ki‐Hyun , Fang Yingying , Seo Young‐Jin
Published: May 2021

With the emergence of COVID‐19 worldwide, interest in blended learning in higher education is rapidly increasing. Despite the fact that the unipolar view that satisfaction and dissatisfaction are measured separately has been emphasized in higher education, fewer efforts have been made in a blended learning context. Therefore, this study attempts to document the unipolar view of satisfaction and dissatisfaction in a blended learning context by adopting the Kano model. More specifically, the objectives of this study is to (1) conceptualize online and offline service dimensions in blended learning, (2) examine the asymmetric effect between satisfaction and dissatisfaction, and (3) apply those results to the Kano model. The following results are reported: (1) system quality and assurance are symmetric, functioning as a satisfier; and (2) information quality, responsiveness, and tangibility are asymmetric, functioning as a delighter. Theoretical and practical implications are addressed.
Extension of chronological lifespan in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Ohtsuka Hokuto , Shimasaki Takafumi , Aiba Hirofumi
Published: May 2021

There are several examples in the nature wherein the mechanism of longevity control of unicellular organisms is evolutionarily conserved with that of higher multicellular organisms. The present microreview focuses on aging and longevity studies, particularly on chronological lifespan (CLS) concerning the unicellular eukaryotic fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. In S. pombe, >30 compounds, 8 types of nutrient restriction, and >80 genes that extend CLS have been reported. Several CLS control mechanisms are known to be involved in nutritional response, energy utilization, stress responses, translation, autophagy, and sexual differentiation. In unicellular organisms, the control of CLS is directly linked to the mechanism by which cells are maintained in limited‐resource environments, and their genetic information is left to posterity. We believe that this important mechanism may have been preserved as a lifespan control mechanism for higher organisms.
Economic impact on direct healthcare costs of missing opportunities for diagnosing HIV within healthcare settings
Authors: Gill MJ , Powell M , Vu Q , Krentz HB
Published: May 2021

Background

The economic consequences of a missed opportunity for HIV testing at an earlier stage of infection within a healthcare setting are poorly described.

Methods

For all newly diagnosed HIV patients followed at the Southern Alberta HIV/AIDS Clinic (SAC), Calgary, Canada, between 1 April 2011 and 1 April 2016, all clinical encounters occurring < 3 years prior to diagnosis within the region were obtained. The direct costs of HIV care after diagnosis to 31 March 2019 were determined from a payers’ perspective and reported as mean cost per patient per month (PPPM) in 2019 Canadian dollars (CDN$). Patients with no encounters for 3 years prior to diagnosis were compared with patients with encounters, with special attention to patients with HIV clinical indicator conditions (HCICs).

Results

Of 388 patients, 60% had one or more prior encounter without HIV testing; 14% had been treated for an HCIC. Females, older patients and heterosexuals were more likely to have prior encounters. At diagnosis, patients with previous encounters presented with lower CD4 counts and higher rates of AIDS. The mean PPPM costs for patients with any prior encounter or for an HCIC‐based encounter were 16% and 33% higher, respectively, than for patients with no prior encounters. While mean PPPM costs for antiretroviral drugs and outpatient visits were slightly higher, in‐patient costs were 10 times higher for people with HIV who had a previous HCIC encounter vs. those with no encounters (CDN$316 vs. $31, respectively).

Conclusions

Any healthcare visit, especially for an HCIC, represents relatively easy opportunities for HIV testing. Not testing can result in poorer health and higher costs. Targeted clinical testing and novel interventions to correct overlooked testing opportunities within healthcare settings may be an easy way to implement cost savings.
Eating in the absence of hunger in 18‐month‐old children in a home setting
Authors: Schultink Janneke M. , de Vries Jeanne H. M. , de Wild Victoire W. T. , van Vliet Merel S. , van der Veek Shelley M. C. , Martens Vanessa E.G. , de Graaf Cees , Jager Gerry
Published: May 2021

Background

Eating in the absence of hunger (EAH), the susceptibility to eat despite satiety, may increase overweight. While EAH has been established in school‐aged children, less is known about it during toddlerhood.

Objectives

This study assessed to what extent 18‐month‐old children eat in the absence of hunger, the stability of this behaviour at 24 months and the association of child eating behaviours with EAH.

Methods

Children were presented with four palatable finger foods (total 275 kcal) after dinner. Univariate GLM's assessed the association between EAH, child satiety and eating behaviours and energy intake of dinner at 18 and 24 months (n = 206 and 103, respectively). Another GLM was run to assess the association between EAH at both time points.

Results

Mean (±SD) energy intakes from dinner and finger foods were 240 kcal (±117) and 40 kcal (±37), respectively. No association was found between energy intake of dinner and finger foods. Enjoyment of food was significantly related to intake of finger foods (P = .005). EAH at 18 months predicted EAH at 24 months.

Conclusion

Eighteen‐month‐old children ate in the absence of hunger, irrespective of satiety. Thus, preceding energy intake was not compensated for. Other factors, for example, enjoyment of food seem to determine finger food intake.
A matheuristic algorithm for the pollution and energy minimization traveling salesman problems
Authors: Cacchiani Valentina , Contreras‐Bolton Carlos , Escobar‐Falcón Luis Miguel , Toth Paolo
Published: May 2021

The pollution traveling salesman problem (PTSP) and the energy minimization traveling salesman problem (EMTSP) generalize the well‐known asymmetric traveling salesman problem by including environmental issues and the goal of reducing carbon emissions. Both problems call for determining a Hamiltonian tour that, in the PTSP, minimizes a function of fuel consumption and driver cost (where the fuel consumption depends on the distance traveled, the vehicle speed, and the vehicle load), while, in the EMTSP, minimizes a function depending on the vehicle load and the traveled distances. For both PTSP and EMTSP, we propose a matheuristic algorithm that uses the solution of the linear programming relaxation of a mixed integer linear programming model for the considered problem to determine good initial feasible solutions, applies a multioperator genetic algorithm to improve these solutions, and refines the best solution found through an iterated local search procedure. In order to evaluate the performance of the proposed matheuristics, we compare them with exact and heuristic algorithms from the literature on benchmark instances of both problems.
Measurement properties of patient‐reported outcome measures for eczema control: a systematic review
Authors: Stuart B.L. , Howells L. , Pattinson R.L. , Chalmers J.R. , Grindlay D. , Rogers N.K. , Grinich E. , Pawlitschek T. , Simpson E.L. , Thomas K.S.
Published: May 2021

Atopic eczema (herein referred to as ‘eczema’) is a skin disease characterized by remitting and relapsing symptoms. The Harmonising Outcome Measures for Eczema (HOME) initiative was developed to establish a core outcome set (COS) for eczema to be measured for all future eczema trials. The core outcome set for atopic eczema clinical trials includes the domain for patient‐reported eczema control, but a review of the validation of available eczema control instruments was lacking. We aimed to review the literature and systematically assess the measurement properties of validated patient‐reported outcome instruments that capture eczema control. PubMed and Ovid EMBASE were searched up to 24 January 2020 for any study that reported on PROM instrument development or validation. The COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) criteria were used to assess the quality of eligible studies. We screened 12 036 titles and abstracts and 58 full texts. A total of 12 papers were included, reporting on seven PROMS. These were assessed with respect to development, reliability, construct validity and responsiveness. Two instruments, Recap of Atopic Eczema (RECAP) and the Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT), have been developed and validated to a sufficient standard to support their recommendation as patient‐reported outcome instruments for measuring control of atopic eczema as part of the HOME Core Outcome Set.
Pangenotypic direct‐acting antiviral agents for mixed genotype hepatitis C infection: A real‐world effectiveness analysis
Authors: Ding Yuan‐Jie , Lu Chung‐Kuang , Chen Wei‐Ming , Tung Shui‐Yi , Wei Kuo‐Liang , Shen Chen‐Heng , Hsieh Yung‐Yu , Yen Chih‐Wei , Chang Kao‐Chi , Chiu Wen‐Nan , Hung Chao‐Hung , Lu Sheng‐Nan , Chang Te‐Sheng
Published: May 2021

Background

Pangenotypic direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs) glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) are effective against all hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype infections. However, data on pangenotypic DAA treatment for mixed genotype HCV infection are sparse.

Methods

This is a retrospective, single site cohort study analyzing all patients with mixed HCV genotype infections treated with GLE/PIB or SOF/VEL from August 2018 to August 2020 in Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan. The primary study endpoint was sustained virologic response (SVR) 12 weeks after treatment cessation. We also reported adverse events (AEs).

Results

A total of 108 patients with mixed infections of any two or three genotypes of 1a, 1b, 2, 3, and 6 received pangenotypic DAAs during the study period. A total of 67 patients received GLE/PIB and 41 received SOF/VEL. The evaluable population analysis revealed SVR rates of 94% (63/67) and 95.1% (39/41) for GLE/PIB and SOF/VEL therapy, respectively, and the per‐protocol analysis revealed an SVR of 100% for both regimens. Four patients in the GLE/PIB group and two patients in the SOF/VEL were lost to follow‐up. The most common AEs for GLE/PIB versus SOF/VEL therapy included pruritus (14.9% vs 2.4%), fatigue (6.0% vs 7.3%), abdominal discomfort (4.5% vs 7.3%), and acid reflux (3.0% vs 4.9%). DAA‐related significant laboratory abnormalities occurred in three patients with > 1.5 × elevated bilirubin level in the GLE/PIB group. None of the above AEs resulted in DAA discontinuation.

Conclusions

Pangenotypic DAAs are well tolerated by and yield high SVR rates in patients with mixed genotype HCV infection.
Factors associated with nutritional risk in patients receiving haemodialysis assessed by Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS2002)
Authors: Dahl Helene , Warz Sina‐Isabel , Welland Natasha L. , Arnesen Iselin , Marti Hans‐Peter , Dierkes Jutta
Published: May 2021

Background

Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 is recommended as a screening tool to identify patients at risk of undernutrition for all patients in hospitals by the European Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. Nutritional risk is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients, and it is common among patients on haemodialysis. Factors associated with nutritional risk that could facilitate the screening/diagnostic procedures are warranted.

Objectives

Identification of factors that are associated with nutritional risk in patients with end‐stage renal disease treated with haemodialysis.

Design and Participants

Single‐centre, cross‐sectional study in patients receiving haemodialysis (n = 53) were screened for nutritional risk using Nutritional Risk Screening 2002. Associations were made with data on dietary intake by 24‐h dietary recall, and measurement of body composition, anthropometric measurements and biochemical variables.

Results

Nutritional risk was common among patients on haemodialysis (26%), and was associated with low energy and protein intake, and low pre‐albumin concentrations also after adjustments for age and sex. Nutritional risk was neither associated with diabetes nor duration of dialysis treatment.

Conclusion

Measurement of pre‐albumin and dietary assessment using a 24‐h dietary recall can support the identification of patients receiving haemodialysis at nutritional risk.
LYING TO THE NAZI AT THE DOOR
Authors: Clem Stewart
Published: May 2021

Moral philosophers and theologians have long debated the classic moral dilemma of lying to an intruder in order to save a refugee. This dilemma presents an especially difficult challenge to those who reject consequentialist reasoning. Many contemporary defenders of Thomas Aquinas have argued that lying is never permissible under any circumstances, but none has offered a satisfactory answer to the question of what one ought to do when facing such a dilemma. I argue that there can be no morally satisfying answer to this question, because every possible action will involve some degree of sin, even if lying is the least sinful action. This should not lead us to redefine what it means to tell a lie, nor to say that lying to the intruder is a good or right action; rather, it should lead us to acknowledge the tragic dimension of life in a fallen world.
How do Changes in One's Self‐Esteem Affect the Self‐Esteem of Others?
Authors: Shimizu Haruka , Takahashi Chisato , Koike Mayu , Fukui Ken'ichiro , Nakashima Ken'ichiro
Published: May 2021

When someone's self‐esteem is raised, how does their presence affect the people surrounding them? The purpose of the present study was to provide initial evidence for this question from the viewpoint of social comparison. We therefore conducted a questionnaire experiment among junior high school students (N = 225) using a scene‐assumption method, investigating the effect of a change in the self‐esteem of a specific individual on the self‐esteem of others in that individual's proximity. Results showed that, for students who had low self‐esteem and saw self‐esteem as important, their self‐esteem decreased when the self‐esteem of a friend increased; conversely, self‐esteem increased for individuals who did not view this trait as important. This finding suggests that, depending on both the degree of the participants’ original level of self‐esteem and the degree to which self‐esteem is considered important, activities to improve self‐esteem may have an unintentional adverse effect that undermines their original purpose. Based on this suggestion, the necessity of considering the effects on others in efforts to improve an individual's self‐esteem is discussed.
A rare case of childhood mucous membrane pemphigoid involving the oral and genital mucosa
Authors: Rodriguez Baisi Katinna , Wentworth Ashley , Chattha Asma J. , DiCaudo David J. , Mangold Aaron , Nelson Steven A. , Siegfried Elaine , Wieland Carilyn N. , Tollefson Megha
Published: May 2021

Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) is a rare chronic immunobullous disease that involves the mucous membranes and may result in significant scarring and complications if diagnosis is delayed. MMP typically occurs in elderly patients, with very few cases reported in children. Here, we present a 12‐year‐old female patient with childhood‐onset oral and genital MMP, clinically suspected to be lichen sclerosus, but eventually diagnosed as MMP after multiple supportive biopsies and confirmatory direct immunofluorescence. Although treatment was challenging, the combined use of systemic corticosteroids, dapsone, and mycophenolate mofetil was ultimately successful in achieving disease control.
Parental response to the feeding behavior problems in children with cleft lip and palate: A systematic review
Authors: Srivastav Sukeshana , Duggal Isha , Duggal Ritu , Tewari Nitesh , Chaudhari Prabhat Kumar , Pandey Ravindra Mohan
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess and analyze the global status of parental responses to feeding problems in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and to provide recommendations for future research.

Design

A priori protocol was formulated according to PRISMA guidelines and registered. The predefined search strategy was used in established search engines up to July 27, 2020 without any restriction of language or year of publication. Studies evaluating the parental responses to feeding problems in patients with CLP were included. The data extraction was performed with a self‐designed form, and risk of bias (ROB) was assessed.

Results

Out of 27 identified papers, eight studies could be included. Most were from Europe, conducted between 1994 and 2020, and had utilized valid and reliable questionnaires. The included studies showed moderate or low ROB. The majority of the studies reported parental dissatisfaction with the knowledge provided. The presence of anxiety and low self‐esteem among parents was also highlighted.

Conclusions

There was general consensus regarding lack of medical advice and support for CLP families, along with the presence of anxiety and low self‐esteem among parents. Well‐designed studies from different regions of the world must be conducted in the future for an accurate global picture to be presented.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*14:01:13 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Blandin Lucie , Visentin Jonathan , Guidicelli Gwendaline , Lemal Richard , Rouzaire Paul
Published: May 2021

HLA‐B*14:01:13 differs from HLA‐B*14:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 79 in exon 2.
IN DEFENSE OF AQUINAS'S ADAM: ORIGINAL JUSTICE, THE FALL, AND EVOLUTION
Authors: Macdonald Paul A.
Published: May 2021

In this article, I show how traditional Thomistic claims about the creation and fall of the first human beings—or “Adam”—are compatible with the claims of evolutionary science concerning human origins. Aquinas claims that God created Adam in a state or condition of original justice, wholly subject to God and so fully virtuous, as well as internally immune to bodily corruption, suffering, and natural death. In defense of “Aquinas's Adam,” I first argue that affirming that the prelapsarian Adam was internally immune to suffering and death does not require denying that these things predated his emergence within evolutionary history, or that he would have faced real challenges posed to him by his natural environment. Next, I rebut the claim that Adam must have been spiritually and morally fragile, given the traits he inherited from his evolutionary ancestors. Finally, I dispute the claim that Adam only could have fallen if he existed in a spiritually and morally fragile state.
Perceptual analysis of directional late reverberation
Authors: Alary Benoit , Massé Pierre , Schlecht Sebastian J. , Noisternig Markus , Välimäki Vesa
Published: May 2021

The late reverberation characteristics of a sound field are often assumed to be perceptually isotropic, meaning that the decay of energy is perceived as equivalent in every direction. In this paper, we employ Ambisonics reproduction methods to reassess how a decaying sound field is analyzed and characterized and our capacity to hear directional characteristics within late reverberation. We propose the use of objective measures to assess the anisotropy characteristics of a decaying sound field. The energy-decay deviation is defined as the difference of the direction-dependent decay from the average decay. A perceptual study demonstrates a positive link between the range of these energy deviations and their audibility. These results suggest that accurate sound reproduction should account for directional properties throughout the decay.
Improved Selective BIN Agar for a Better Rate of Yersinia pestis Isolation from Primary Clinical Specimens in Suspected Madagascar Plague Cases
Authors: Aftalion Moshe , Aloni-Grinstein Ronit , Andrianaivoarimanana Voahangy , Lantoniaina Iharisoa Alice , Shmaya Shlomo , Gur David , Laskar Orly , Rajerison Minoarisoa , Mamroud Emanuelle
Published: May 2021

According to the WHO, 75% of the world’s plague cases are found in Madagascar, with an average of 200 to 700 cases suspected annually (mainly bubonic plague). In 2017, a pneumonic plague epidemic of unusual proportions occurred, which raised several challenges for laboratory confirmation of cases, pointing to the need for the development of
Yersinia pestis
isolation procedures, especially those that can be performed in remote areas. As the WHO gold standard for plague diagnosis is bacterial culture, we sought to develop a simple method to prepare a highly selective medium, fit for use in remote areas where plague is endemic. The performance of the new medium, named improved BIN, was examined in terms of growth support and selectivity with spiked samples as well in isolating
Y. pestis
from clinical specimens, and it was compared to the results obtained with commercially available selective media.
16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Sequencing of Contaminated Coastal Sediment Collected from the Taehwa River Estuary, South Korea
Authors: Woo Hee-eun , Lee Junho , Kim Jong-Oh , Lee In-Cheol , Yoon Seokjin , Kim Kyunghoi
Published: May 2021

The Taehwa River Estuary is one of the largest enclosed bays in east Korea. In order to understand the environment of the Taehwa River Estuary, the microbial diversity in the sediment of the estuary was investigated through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The predominant phyla were
Proteobacteria
and
Bacteroidetes
in all locations.
Bacterial Quorum-Sensing Signal Arrests Phytoplankton Cell Division and Impacts Virus-Induced Mortality
Authors: Pollara Scott B. , Becker Jamie W. , Nunn Brook L. , Boiteau Rene , Repeta Daniel , Mudge Miranda C. , Downing Grayton , Chase Davis , Harvey Elizabeth L. , Whalen Kristen E.
Published: May 2021

Bacteria and phytoplankton form close associations in the ocean that are driven by the exchange of chemical compounds. The bacterial signal 2-heptyl-4-quinolone (HHQ) slows phytoplankton growth; however, the mechanism responsible remains unknown.
Staphylococcus epidermidis Phages Transduce Antimicrobial Resistance Plasmids and Mobilize Chromosomal Islands
Authors: Fišarová Lenka , Botka Tibor , Du Xin , Mašlaňová Ivana , Bárdy Pavol , Pantůček Roman , Benešík Martin , Roudnický Pavel , Winstel Volker , Larsen Jesper , Rosenstein Ralf , Peschel Andreas , Doškař Jiří
Published: May 2021

Multidrug-resistant strains of
S. epidermidis
emerge in both nosocomial and livestock environments as the most important pathogens among coagulase-negative staphylococcal species. The study of transduction by phages is essential to understanding how virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes spread in originally commensal bacterial populations.
Supplemental Material: Serpentinized peridotite versus thick mafic crust at the Romanche oceanic transform fault
Authors: Gregory Emma P. M. , al. et
Published: May 2021

Detailed methods and supplemental Figures S1–S9.
Role of physiotherapy in supporting recovery from breast cancer treatment: a qualitative study embedded within the UK PROSPER trial
Authors: Rees Sophie , Mazuquin Bruno , Richmond Helen , Williamson Esther , Bruce Julie
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To explore the experiences of women with breast cancer taking part in an early physiotherapy-led exercise intervention compared with the experiences of those receiving usual care. To understand physiotherapists’ experience of delivering the trial intervention. To explore acceptability of the intervention and issues related to the implementation of the Prevention Of Shoulder Problems (PROSPER) programme from participant and physiotherapist perspective.

Design

Qualitative semistructured interviews with thematic analysis.

Setting

UK National Health Service.

Participants

Twenty participants at high risk of shoulder problems after breast cancer surgery recruited to the UK PROSPER trial (10 each from the intervention arm and control arm), and 11 physiotherapists who delivered the intervention. Trial participants were sampled using convenience sampling. Physiotherapists were purposively sampled from high and low recruiting sites.

Results

Participants described that the PROSPER exercise intervention helped them feel confident in what their body could do and helped them regain a sense of control in the context of cancer treatment, which was largely disempowering. Control arm participants expressed less of a sense of control over their well-being. Physiotherapists found the exercise intervention enjoyable to deliver and felt it was valuable to their patients. The extra time allocated for appointments during intervention delivery made physiotherapists feel they were providing optimal care, being the ‘perfect physio’. Lessons were learnt about the implementation of a complex exercise intervention for women with breast cancer, and the issues raised will inform the development of a future implementation strategy.

Conclusions

A physiotherapist-delivered early supported exercise intervention with integrated behavioural strategies helped women at risk of shoulder problems following breast cancer treatment to feel more confident in their ability to mobilise their arm post-surgery. A physiotherapist-delivered early supported exercise intervention with integrated behavioural strategies may address the sense of powerlessness that many women experience during breast cancer treatment.

Trial registration numberISRCTN35358984.
Mapping the evidence of intimate partner violence among women living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review
Authors: Meskele Mengistu , Khuzwayo Nelisiwe , Taylor Myra
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The present study undertakes a scoping review aimed to map the evidence of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women living with HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Design

We used the online database to identify papers published from 1 January 2009 to 1 April 2019, from which we selected 21 articles from Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Tanzania and Swaziland that used IPV as an outcome variable among women living with HIV/AIDS.

Data sources

PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCO host, Google Scholar.

Eligibility criteria

We included women who were aged 15 years and above, living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa.

Data extraction and synthesis

We conducted the abstract screening with two independent reviewers. We also performed full-text screening. We used the six methodological frameworks proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool was used to determine the quality of the studies. We used NVIVO software V.12 to undertake a thematic analysis.

Results

Of the studies, the majority, 57.1%, reported cross-sectional results. In comparison, 23.8% examined qualitative studies, 9.5% were clinical trials, 4.8% were cohort studies and the remaining 4.8% covered grey literature. This review revealed evidence of IPV experience among women with HIV/AIDS, evidence of how HIV status disclosure influences IPV, proof of the association of sociodemographic characteristics with IPV and implications for practice. Moreover, the review revealed that following the serostatus disclosure, there is evidence of heightened risk for IPV.

Conclusions

This study found evidence of IPV among women living with HIV/AIDS. The HIV-positive women were at considerable risk of IPV after disclosure of their serostatus to a male partner. Therefore, further research is needed to promote action to reduce IPV among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women and to determine healthcare workers’ IPV screening experience.