bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small-angle neutron scattering applied to low-dose neutron-irradiated Fe–Cr alloys and ferritic martensitic steel Eurofer97
Authors: Ulbricht Andreas , Heinemann André , Bergner Frank
Published: June 2022

Ferritic/martensitic (F/M) Fe–Cr-based steels are candidates for applications in nuclear fission and fusion. Previous experimental results for neutron-irradiated binary Fe–Cr alloys and high-dose neutron-irradiated F/M steels contributed greatly to the understanding of the irradiation behaviour of these groups of materials. However, some details still need to be addressed. Such gaps are related to the effect of secondary alloying and impurity elements, such as Ni and Si, as well as the dose dependence at lower neutron doses [e.g. in the range 0.1–1 displacements per atom (dpa)]. This input is essential, for example, for multiscale modelling of irradiation effects or the evaluation of nuclear fission or fusion components at the first stages of operation. Using small-angle neutron scattering, three issues are addressed: (1) the effect of Cr undersaturation (5% Cr) and supersaturation (14% Cr) on the formation of irradiation-induced solute atom clusters/precipitates in low-dose neutron-irradiated Fe–Cr alloys in the presence of intentionally added levels of Ni, Si and P; (2) the effect of irradiation temperature (290°C versus 450°C); and (3) the effect of neutron dose in the range 0.06–0.6 dpa on the irradiation response of the reduced-activation F/M 9%Cr steel Eurofer97. The irradiation-enhanced formation of Cr-rich α′-phase particles was found to be the dominant effect for supersaturated Fe–14Cr–NiSiP at both irradiation temperatures. In contrast, α′ formation is impossible in Fe–5Cr–NiSiP, for which the pronounced irradiation effects observed at 0.1 dpa are mainly attributed to added Ni, Si and P. Finally, Eurofer97 exhibits an exceptionally weak irradiation effect at low neutron doses, the reasons for which are also considered.
Determinants of adaptability and its impact on the change readiness of civil servants
Authors: Yean Tan Fee , Tan Fee Cheng , Nadarajah Devika
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Underpinned by Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), this study aimed to examine the mediating role of employees' adaptability in the relationship between the five managerial climate factors (i.e., trust, supportiveness, openness, clarity of goals and participative) and change readiness in public sector organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting the quantitative approach, data were collected from 379 administrative and diplomatic officers. Analysis was done using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results showed that trust and clarity of goals are significant motivational factors that accelerate employees' adaptability. Adaptability, in turn, was found to mediate the effect of trust and clarity of goals on employees' change readiness.

Originality/value

This study contributes to theory and practice by examining employees' adaptability as an intervening variable in the relationship between managerial climate factors and change readiness with specific reference to the public administration context.
I hate ads but not the advertised brands: a qualitative study on Internet users' lived experiences with YouTube ads
Authors: Banerjee Snehasish , Pal Anjan
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore Internet users' lived experiences with video ads, both skippable and nonskippable, while watching content on YouTube.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted with 22 participants.

Findings

The participants unanimously expressed dissatisfaction with YouTube ads. The dissatisfaction was directed to the platform but did not spill over to the advertised brand/product. Ethical concerns related to privacy also emerged. Specifically, with respect to nonskippable ads, the participants expressed dislike for forced viewing and explained how they would engage in extraneous activities during the ads. Nonetheless, they appreciated the flexibility offered by skippable ads. They also elaborated on how, why and when they would skip/not skip skippable ads.

Originality/value

The findings are discussed in light of the literature on not only online advertising but also platform switching versus continuance intention, spillover effect, privacy–personalization paradox and visual attention.
A systematic review of information practices research
Authors: Zhong Huan , Han Zhengbiao , Hansen Preben
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This systematic literature review aims to elaborate the research progress of information practices to help other researchers attain a more holistic and comprehensive understanding of the field.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a systematic review protocol, 123 research articles from nine academic databases were included in the analysis.

Findings

Four separate results can be outlined. First, practice theory, social constructionist theory and activity theory are often used as the theoretical basis for the study of information practices. Second, people will engage in specific information practice activities in different external and internal contexts. The external contexts include social and needs contexts. The internal contexts include information source horizons, user's affection and user's cognition. Third, the existing information practice models can be divided into static and dynamic types. These models mainly reflected activities and influencing factors of information practices. Fourth, qualitative methods were the most used in information practice research.

Research limitations/implications

The field of information practices is a vast, expanding research field. This research will focus only on a specific section, namely concepts, activities, contexts and models. Researchers could contribute to exploring the concepts, components and mechanisms of information practices by combining theories from various disciplines, such as sociology and behavioral science.

Originality/value

This is the first study to reveal the general picture of information practices. It also elaborates the characteristics of people's information practices and shows the potential development direction for future research.
Tourists' engagement and willingness to pay behavior during COVID-19: an assessment of antecedents, consequences and intermediate relationships
Authors: Kumar Navin , Panda Rajeev Kumar , Adhikari Kishalay
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study identifies antecedents and consequences of destination brand engagement (DBE) that have redefined the tourists' behavior during the COVID-19 outbreak. Specifically, it assesses the impact of social media interaction and destination authenticity on DBE and DBE's effect on tourists' willingness to pay (WTP). Further, it examines the mediating role of affective attitude and the moderating role of perceived risk between the associations of DBE and WTP.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from 436 respondents through a structured questionnaire from selected tourism destinations in India. Structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) is employed to empirically examine the formulated hypotheses. Besides, hierarchical second-order confirmatory factor analysis is also deployed to analyze certain constructs as higher-order factors.

Findings

Social media interaction and destination authenticity elevate DBE, and DBE enhances affective attitude and WTP. Affective attitude mediates the relationship between DBE and WTP. Hence, the association between tourists' engagement and spending behavior becomes crucial under elevated affective attitude conditions. Finally, perceived risk during the pandemic dampens the association between DBE and WTP.

Practical implications

The findings may provide newer insights to the tourism companies, marketers and policymakers to create targeted strategies to minimize the risk perception and improve engagement levels of the tourists, which can yield economic returns in the long run.

Originality/value

Based on the cues from protection motivation theory (PMT), this study develops a DBE framework and identifies the factors affecting its sustenance in the pandemic hit tourism sector. Further, suggesting implications to ensure safety measures in the tourism industry that may assist in establishing economic resilience.
Pericapsular nerve group block for hip fracture is feasible, safe and effective in the emergency department: A prospective observational comparative cohort study
Authors: Fahey Alan , Cripps Elinor , Ng Aloysius , Sweeny Amy , Snelling Peter J
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block was first described for analgesia of hip fracture in 2018. We hypothesised that the PENG block is safe and effective for patients with hip fracture when provided by emergency physicians and trainees in the ED.

Methods

This was an observational study of routine care. Consecutive patients receiving regional anaesthesia for hip fracture at a single ED were prospectively enrolled. Pain scores were assessed prior to regional anaesthesia then at 15, 30 and 60 min after administration. Maximal reduction in pain scores within 60 min were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (at rest and on movement) or the Pain Assessment IN Advanced Dementia tool (at rest). Patients were followed for opioid use for 12 h after regional anaesthesia and adverse events over the duration of admission.

Results

There were 67 eligible patients during the enrolment period, with 52 (78%) prospectively enrolled. Thirty‐three received femoral blocks (19 fascia iliaca compartment blocks, 14 femoral nerve blocks) and 19 received a PENG block. Inexperienced providers were able to successfully perform the PENG block. There was no difference in maximum pain score reduction between the groups. There was no difference in adverse effects between groups. Opioid use was similar between the groups. More patients were opioid‐free after a PENG block.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that the PENG block can be provided safely and effectively to patients with hip fracture in the ED. On the basis of this pilot study, a larger randomised controlled study should now be designed.
Effect of agave fructans on xanthan rheology: Impact on sodium caseinate emulsion properties
Authors: Sosa‐Herrera María Guadalupe , Martínez‐Padilla Laura Patricia , Delgado‐Reyes Virginia Agustina , de Avila Ortega María de los Angeles , Cruz Martínez Irene Paulina
Published: June 2022

The influence of agave fructans (AF) (1–10%) and xanthan (from 0.03% to 0.25%) in combination with sodium caseinate (SC) at 1% on the rheological and physicochemical properties of aqueous phases and emulsions was evaluated. Steady‐state flow behavior, particle size distribution, and stability studies were used to characterize the systems. The aqueous systems displayed the shear‐thinning behavior characteristic of xanthan solutions; however, this behavior was modified by the presence of SC and AF due to interactions between AF–SC and AF–xanthan based on predominant hydrogen bonding because of the hydroxyl groups on AF. In emulsions, an increase in viscosity due to the effect of the AF concentration reflects a probable association of fructan aggregates on the surface of SC particles that reinforce the interfacial layer of SC, while xanthan contributes to an increase in the viscosity of the continuous phase, which effectively prevents coalescence and floc formation even at higher concentrations, despite the possible existence of a depletion flocculation effect attenuated by the interaction between AF–SC and AF–xanthan.

Practical Application

These results can be of use, in an important way, in the design of stable functional emulsions in which there is an application for agave fructans recognized as dietary fiber, also considering their peculiar way of interacting with xanthan favoring its stabilizing functionality.
Tripeptide Hyp‐Asp‐Gly from collagen peptides inhibited platelet activation via regulation of PI3K/Akt‐MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Song Hongdong , Yang Yijie , Li Bo
Published: June 2022

Platelet activation is involved in cardiovascular thrombosis. Our previous study demonstrated that oral administration of collagen peptides (CPs) inhibited platelet activation, but the mechanism of action of CPs remained to be elucidated. As a continued effort, the objective of this study was to identify the active ingredient of CPs and clarify its molecular mechanism. Simulated absorbate of CPs was prepared by simulated gastrointestinal digestion and intestinal absorption system, and then separated by C18 column. The fraction with the highest antiplatelet activity was subjected to NanoUPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS for peptide sequencing. Novel tripeptide Hyp‐Asp‐Gly (ODG) was identified. It had a broad‐spectrum inhibition of platelet activation induced by collagen, thrombin, and adenosine diphosphate (ADP). ODG could survive simulated gastrointestinal digestion and be absorbed intact. Furthermore, it showed good stability in plasma. ODG had no significant effect on the PLC‐PKC‐Ca2+ pathway, but it inhibited the PI3K/Akt‐MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling. At a dosage of 200 µmol/kg body weight, ODG had an in vivo anti‐thrombosis activity without bleeding risk. The present study provides one of the mechanisms of action of CPs and highlights its potential use as a functional component to combat cardiovascular thrombosis.

Practical Application

This study has suggested that tripeptide Hyp‐Asp‐Gly(ODG) derived from collagen have potent activities. This novel collagen peptide had a greatpotential to be applied to combat cardiovascular thrombosis in the foodindustry. Meanwhile, this work is expected to provide a theoretical basis forthe development of safe and effective anti‐platelet and anti‐thrombosis peptides.
Effect of ball milling‐assisted glycosylation modification on the structure and foaming property of egg white protein
Authors: Liu Lan , Wang Qia , Wu Yongyan , Wang Guoze , Geng Fang , Song Hongbo , Luo Peng , Huang Qun
Published: June 2022

The effect of different glycosylation degrees on molecular structure and foaming property of egg white protein (EWP) was investigated using ball milling‐assisted glycosylation. The results showed the foaming ability (FA) and foam stability (FS) of EWP improved when the degree of glycosylation was increased. In particular, FA of ball milling‐assisted glycosylation of EWP enhanced by 39.9% and 28.8%, and the FS increased by 28.7% and 24.0% compared with EWP and ball milling egg white protein (BE) at 150 min of reaction. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) analysis could reflect the grafting degree of EWP and glucose molecules from the side. When EWP was fully grafted with glucose, endogenous fluorescence and free sulfhydryl groups indicated that tertiary structure of EWP was depolymerized, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed the secondary structure tended to change from order to disorder. The results of this study indicated that ball milling‐assisted glycosylation modification was a practical method to improve the foaming property of EWP.

Practical Application

EWP has great FA and FS, making it indispensable in the baking industry. In this study, ball milling‐assisted glycosylation was used to improve the foaming property of EWP, and the molecular structure of EWP with different degrees of glycosylation was fully resolved. The results demonstrated that ball milling, as a physical pretreatment, can fully unfold the structure of EWP. When sugar molecules were fully grafted, the particle size of EWP reduced, solubility increased, and the stability of system improved, thus enhancing the foaming property of EWP. The results can provide theoretical basis for improving the foaming property of EWP and provide a reference value for its industrial application.
Digestion behavior of a polysaccharide from Cyclina sinensis: An explanation for the discrepancy in its immunostimulatory activities in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhou Youxian , Gong Yue , Liu Zhengqi , Wang Lilong , Ai Chunqing , Wen Chengrong , Zhu Taihai , Song Shuang
Published: June 2022

Although numerous polysaccharides have demonstrated potential immunostimulatory activities in in vitro models, only a few of them successfully stimulate the immune system in vivo. In order to explore the possible reasons for the activity loss of polysaccharides in in vivo models, the immunostimulatory activities in vitro and in vivo and the digestion behavior of a polysaccharide from Cyclina sinensis (CSP) were investigated in the present study. CSP showed obvious immunostimulatory activity in a RAW 264.7 cell model. In in vitro experiment, CSP did not exhibit cytotoxicity at concentrations of ≤10 µg/ml, and significantly increased NO production at concentrations of 0.4–10 µg/ml, suggesting CSP processes immunostimulatory activity in vitro. Further investigation using simulated digestion model indicated that CSP could bind with the protein in the digestive fluids to form precipitate in both the stomach and small intestine, and it could be seriously degraded by amylase during the digestion in the small intestine. Furthermore, the in vivo immunostimulatory activity evaluation demonstrated CSP had no effect on immunosuppressed mice as indicated by the body weight, thymus and spleen indexes, and TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐10 mRNA expression. Thus, the present study indicates that the degradation and precipitation of CSP in the digestive tract are the possible reasons for the activity loss of CSP after digestion.

Practical Application

Cyclina sinensis is the common aquatic shellfish in China and plays an important role in the marine aquaculture industry. Cyclina sinensis polysaccharide (CSP) is the main active component of C. sinensis. The structure characterization and immunostimulatory activity of a purified fraction of CSP (CSP‐1) and the effect of digestion on CSP and its immunostimulatory activity were studied. The result of this study promotes the understanding of the nutritional function effects and provides a scientific reference for the rational development and high‐value utilization of C. sinensis.
A global assessment of research on urban ecology of reptiles: patterns, gaps and future directions
Authors: Brum P. H. R. , Gonçalves S. R. A. , Strüssmann C. , Teixido A. L.
Published: June 2022

Global urban expansion has multiple impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Still, urban centres may play an important role in the conservation of reptiles, an undersampled, megadiverse and unevenly distributed group especially vulnerable to anthropogenic impacts. However, major gaps in research on the urban ecology of reptiles and species responses to urbanisation persist, which may limit our capacity to guide suitable conservation policies. We conducted a global systematic literature review to evaluate biogeographic, taxonomic and ecological research biases in the urban ecology of reptiles and ultimately to detect major gaps and steer future sampling efforts. Our database comprised 278 articles dealing with biological responses to urbanisation of 493 species across 45 countries, comprising 658 cases between a given species and specific biological response. Research on the urban ecology of reptiles was geographically and taxonomically biased. Developed countries within temperate regions were better sampled, whereas developing tropical and megadiverse countries were mostly undersampled or neglected. Among reptile orders, Testudines and Crocodylia were proportionally more studied than Squamata. Across lower groups within Squamata, lizards were present in most studies and were the biological model most commonly used. Studies evaluating biological responses associated with landscape‐level processes, behaviour and/or population dynamics were prevalent, whereas conservation, human–reptile conflicts and wildlife management were the least considered topics. Our results show that research on urban ecology of reptiles is unevenly distributed across regions and lineages. Overcoming these major gaps is an important step towards the improvement of the conservation of reptiles worldwide under the upcoming biodiversity loss scenario. Beyond spreading sampling efforts across undersampled countries, taxa and research topics to meet conservation objectives, we recommend more multidisciplinary approaches to evaluate and compare the actual performance of reptiles in urban environments and to achieve the equilibrium between human well‐being and species conservation.
Can we have our cake and eat it too? Corporate social responsibility and employees’ eudaimonic well‐being and performance
Authors: Cao Man , Zhao Shuming , Lv Hongjiang , Wei Danxia
Published: June 2022

Whereas extant studies on corporate social responsibility (CSR) have documented various favorable individual outcomes, potential social effects of CSR beyond mere economic influences, such as employees’ eudaimonic well‐being, are often overlooked. Drawing on a sensemaking perspective, our research examines how corporate social responsibility (CSR) leads to employees’ eudaimonic well‐being and enhances job performance. We used three‐source data covering senior managers and employees from 62 organizations to test our hypotheses. The results of the study show that CSR elicits employees’ perceived meaningfulness, which in turn contributes to employees’ eudaimonic well‐being as well as job performance. Furthermore, we found that when CEO’s humble leadership is high, CSR would function better on employees’ perceived meaningfulness. Overall, this study provides a nuanced understanding of CSR by examining when and how it can simultaneously facilitate employees’ eudaimonic well‐being and job performance. The findings also provide important suggestions and implications for organizational sustainability.
First‐line programmed death receptor‐1 (PD‐1) inhibitor and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) blockade, combined with platinum‐based chemotherapy, for stage IV penile cancer
Authors: Yan Ru , Ma Huali , Jiang Lijuan , Guo Shengjie , Shi Yanxia , Sheng Xinan , Zhang Yijun , Spiess Philippe E. , Liu Tingyu , Xue Ting , Chen Xiaofeng , Li Zhiyong , An Xin , Yao Kai , Zhou Fangjian , Han Hui
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the anti‐tumour activity and safety of anti‐programmed death receptor‐1 (PD‐1) antibody plus epidermal growth factor receptor blockade combined with platinum‐based chemotherapy (PEP) as first‐line therapy for stage IV penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC).

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 17 patients with stage IV PSCC undergoing first‐line PEP at Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center between January 2018 and September 2021. Clinical responses were assessed using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) version 1.1. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Adverse events (AEs) were graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0.

Results

Of 17 patients who received first‐line PEP, 13 were observed to have partial responses. Twelve patients subsequently received consolidated surgery. Nine of these achieved pN0 status, of whom six with locally advanced PSCC achieved pathological complete response. The median (range) follow‐up time was 24.87 (3.63–29.40) months. Median PFS and median OS were not reached, with 2‐year PFS and OS rates being 68.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 48.7–96.1) and 62.9% (95% CI 41.6–95), respectively. Eight patients experienced Grade 3 or 4 treatment‐related AEs. No Grade 5 AEs or death associated with treatment was observed.

Conclusions

Anti‐PD‐1 antibody plus epidermal growth factor receptor blockade and platinum‐based chemotherapy showed promising anti‐tumour activity, acceptable toxicity, and satisfying long‐term survival for stage IV PSCC. Larger clinical trials are needed to validate our findings.
Semantic maturation during the comprehension‐expression gap in late and typical talkers
Authors: Jiménez Eva , Hills Thomas T.
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the influence of semantic maturation on early lexical development by examining the impact of contextual diversity—known to influence semantic development—on word promotion from receptive to productive vocabularies (i.e., comprehension‐expression gap). Study 1 compares the vocabularies of 3685 American‐English‐speaking typical talkers (TTs) and late talkers (LTs; 16–30 months old; 1257 females, 1021 gender unknown; ethnicity unknown; data downloaded in 2018) and finds that LTs, with a longer preverbal phase, produced nouns with lower contextual diversity (R2 = .80), but verbs with higher contextual diversity (R2 = .13). Study 2 compares computational network growth models of semantic maturation and finds that verbs require more semantic maturation than nouns, and TTs produce words that are more semantically mature than LTs.
Evaluation of artificial intelligence models for the detection of asymmetric keratoconus eyes using Scheimpflug tomography
Authors: Xu Zhe , Feng Ruiwei , Jin Xiuming , Hu Heping , Ni Shuang , Xu Wen , Zheng Xiangshang , Wu Jian , Yao Ke
Published: June 2022

Background

To evaluate artificial intelligence (AI) models based on objective indices and raw corneal data from the Scheimpflug Pentacam HR system (OCULUS Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany) for the detection of clinically unaffected eyes in patients with asymmetric keratoconus (AKC) eyes.

Methods

A total of 1108 eyes of 1108 patients were enrolled, including 430 eyes from normal control subjects, 231 clinically unaffected eyes from patients with AKC, and 447 eyes from keratoconus (KC) patients. Eyes were divided into a training set (664 eyes), a test set (222 eyes) and a validation set (222 eyes). AI models were built based on objective indices (XGBoost, LGBM, LR and RF) and entire corneal raw data (KerNet). The discriminating performances of the AI models were evaluated by accuracy and the area under the ROC curve (AUC).

Results

The KerNet model showed great overall discriminating power in the test (accuracy = 94.67%, AUC = 0.985) and validation (accuracy = 94.12%, AUC = 0.990) sets, which were higher than the index‐derived AI models (accuracy = 84.02%–86.98%, AUC = 0.944–0.968). In the test set, the KerNet model demonstrated good diagnostic power for the AKC group (accuracy = 95.24%, AUC = 0.984). The validation set also proved that the KerNet model was useful for AKC group diagnosis (accuracy = 94.12%, AUC = 0.983).

Conclusions

KerNet outperformed all the index‐derived AI models. Based on the raw data of the entire cornea, KerNet was helpful for distinguishing clinically unaffected eyes in patients with AKC from normal eyes.
Peri‐implant tissue health and patient satisfaction of vertical versus inclined posterior implants used to support overdentures with bar attachments. A one‐year randomized trial
Authors: Ibrahim Christine Raouf Micheal , Awad SallySayed , Habib Ahmed Ali , Elsyad Moustafa Abdou
Published: June 2022

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate peri‐implant tissue health and patient satisfaction of vertical and inclined posterior implants for mandibular bar overdentures.

Materials and methods

Thirty edentulous participants received four implants in the interforaminal area of the mandible. The patients were randomly assigned into two equal groups; (1) vertical group (control): all implants were inserted vertically parallel to each other. Inclined group (study): the anterior implants were placed vertically, and the posterior implants were tilted 30° distally. Hader bar attachment with two 7 mm‐distal cantilevers (vertical group) and without cantilevers (inclined group) was used to connect the implants to mandibular overdentures. Peri‐implant tissue health (Plaque [PL] and gingival [GI] indices, pocket depth [PD], and crestal bone loss [CBL]) were evaluated after denture insertion (T0), 6 (T6), and 12 (T12) months after insertion. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a visual analog scale after 12 months.

Results

At T12, the vertical group showed significantly higher PL, PD, and CBL than the inclined group for anterior (p < 0.037) and posterior (p < 0.017) implants. The vertical group showed significantly higher GI than the inclined group for anterior implants (p = 0.003), and the inclined group showed significantly higher GI than the vertical group for posterior implants (p = 0.016). The inclined group showed significantly higher scores for general satisfaction (p = 0.049), prosthesis as a part of you (p = 0.013), appearance (p < 0.001), stability (p = 0.002), ease of cleaning (p < 0.001), and comfort (p = 0.001) than the vertical group.

Conclusion

Inclined posterior implants used to support mandibular bar overdentures are recommended than vertical implants, as it was associated with improved patient satisfaction and peri‐implant tissue health.
Polarising rhomboid crystalline structures in drain fluid following endoluminal vacuum sponge therapy for post‐surgical pelvic collection
Authors: Plonkowski Alexander , Naisbitt Aaron , Parkinson Dan , Brady Richard R.
Published: June 2022

This article reports a notable finding of conspicuous refractile polarising rhomboid crystal structures detected within pathology samples of drain fluid from a patient, following endoluminal negative‐pressure sponge therapy. The sponge material was further analysed to confirm the suspected origin.
Building insights on true positives vs. false positives: Bayes’ rule
Authors: Robinson Alexander , Keller L. Robin , del Campo Cristina
Published: June 2022

COVID‐19 pandemic policies requiring disease testing provide a rich context to build insights on true positives versus false positives. Our main contribution to the pedagogy of data analytics and statistics is to propose a method for teaching updating of probabilities using Bayes’ rule reasoning to build understanding that true positives and false positives depend on the prior probability. Our instructional approach has three parts. First, we show how to construct and interpret raw frequency data tables, instead of using probabilities. Second, we use dynamic visual displays to develop insights and help overcome calculation avoidance or errors. Third, we look at graphs of positive predictive values and negative predictive values for different priors. The learning activities we use include lectures, in‐class discussions and exercises, breakout group problem solving sessions, and homework. Our research offers teaching methods to help students understand that the veracity of test results depends on the prior probability as well as helps students develop fundamental skills in understanding probabilistic uncertainty alongside higher‐level analytical and evaluative skills. Beyond learning to update the probability of having the disease given a positive test result, our material covers naïve estimates of the positive predictive value, the common mistake of ignoring the disease's base rate, debating the relative harm from a false positive versus a false negative, and creating a new disease test.
Firm life cycle and foreign direct investment spillover effect: The case of the Czech Republic
Authors: Vu Duong Hoang , Dehning Bruce , Pavelková Drahomíra
Published: June 2022

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the resulting spillover effects can be important for a country's development and economic growth. Using panel data from 2004 to 2019 in the Czech Republic's manufacturing industry, this paper finds the following. First, FDI firms generate positive horizontal labour effects and backward labour linkage on domestic firms. However, other hypothesized effects of FDI firms, such as horizontal and backward competition and the forward linkage of FDI, were not significant. Second, FDI firms at the mature and shakeout stage generate more spillover than those at the introduction and growth stage. There is no spillover impact on domestic firms by FDI firms at the decline stage. This is the first paper to examine the role of firm life cycle on the spillover effects of FDI.
Visual illusion susceptibility in autism: A neural model
Authors: Park Sangwook , Zikopoulos Basilis , Yazdanbakhsh Arash
Published: June 2022

While atypical sensory perception is reported among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the underlying neural mechanisms of autism that give rise to disruptions in sensory perception remain unclear. We developed a neural model with key physiological, functional and neuroanatomical parameters to investigate mechanisms underlying the range of representations of visual illusions related to orientation perception in typically developed subjects compared to individuals with ASD. Our results showed that two theorized autistic traits, excitation/inhibition imbalance and weakening of top‐down modulation, could be potential candidates for reduced susceptibility to some visual illusions. Parametric correlation between cortical suppression, balance of excitation/inhibition, feedback from higher visual areas on one hand and susceptibility to a class of visual illusions related to orientation perception on the other hand provide the opportunity to investigate the contribution and complex interactions of distinct sensory processing mechanisms in ASD. The novel approach used in this study can be used to link behavioural, functional and neuropathological studies; estimate and predict perceptual and cognitive heterogeneity in ASD; and form a basis for the development of novel diagnostics and therapeutics.
Attachment and family functioning across three generations
Authors: Smrtnik Vitulić Helena , Gosar David , Prosen Simona
Published: June 2022

The present study explores the transmission of attachment and family functioning across three generations. It is based on a sample of 460 female emerging adults (aged 18–26), their mothers (N = 440), fathers (N = 368), maternal grandmothers (N = 224), and maternal grandfathers (N = 113). Participants self‐assessed their attachment anxiety and avoidance using the Relationship Style Questionnaire and evaluated the functioning of their families of origin using the Family Adaptation and Cohesion Scale–IV. The results reveal two mechanisms, both of which have a small but significant effect on the development of attachment across generations. The first operates via direct trans‐generational transmission of attachment from parent to child, mainly involving the mother–child dyad, while the second operates through primary family functioning, especially balanced family cohesion, but also enmeshment and chaos in the case of attachment avoidance. The findings highlight the importance of including content related to attachment and family functioning in intervention programs.
Perceptions and behaviour of pregnant women in socioeconomic deprivation in rural areas. A qualitative study in France
Authors: Cabaillot Aurélie , Lavarenne Marine , Vaure Chiffre Julie , Tessieres Frédéric , Vicard Olagne Mathilde , Laporte Catherine , Vorilhon Philippe
Published: June 2022

Background

Socioeconomic deprivation (SED) is a risk factor for complications during pregnancy and childbirth, the impact of which has been studied poorly in rural areas.

Aims

To explore the perceptions and behaviour of women living in SED in a rural area with regard to their pregnancy follow‐up.

Methods

A qualitative study using semi‐structured individual interviews was carried out in a rural area in central France. To participate, the women had to have an Evaluation of Deprivation and Inequalities in Health Examination Centres deprivation score ≥ 30.17, be living in a rural area and have given birth during the month before the interview. The interviews were analysed using a thematic approach inspired by grounded theory.

Results

Seventeen women were interviewed. The difficulties of life in a rural area were linked to geographical remoteness, travel costs, lack of public services, inadequacy of nearby healthcare and social isolation. In all cases, pregnancy was an additional difficulty. The adaptive capability was related to the presence of an efficient family and social network. Most of the time, any increase in the limitations exceeded the ability to adapt and affected the medical follow‐up of the pregnancy, although follow‐up appointments were rarely abandoned altogether. Perceptions of birth preparation and parenting sessions were often limited to advice on pain management. Due to their affiliation with their rural area or their choice of lifestyle, the women complained only minimally.

Conclusion

Women often minimize any limitations and implement adaptive techniques that make identification by social and medical services more difficult.

Patient or Public Contribution

Eighteen women in SED were contacted by Childhood Medical Protection, midwives and general practitioners practising in rural areas. One woman declined participation and seventeen were interviewed.
Patient, family member and caregiver engagement in shaping policy for primary health care teams in three Canadian Provinces
Authors: Hirschkorn Peter , Rai Ashmita , Parniak Simone , Pritchard Caillie , Birdsell Judy , Montesanti Stephanie , Johnston Sharon , Donnelly Catherine , Oelke Nelly D.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Improving health services integration through primary health care (PHC) teams for patients with chronic conditions is essential to address their complex health needs and facilitate better health outcomes. The objective of this study was to explore if and how patients, family members, and caregivers were engaged or wanted to be engaged in developing, implementing and evaluating health policies related to PHC teams. This patient‐oriented research was carried out in three provinces across Canada: British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario.

Methods

A total of 29 semi‐structured interviews with patients were conducted across the three provinces and data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three key themes were identified: motivation for policy engagement, experiences with policy engagement and barriers to engagement in policy. The majority of participants in the study wanted to be engaged in policy processes and advocate for integrated care through PHC teams. Barriers to patient engagement in policy, such as lack of opportunities for engagement, power imbalances, tokenism, lack of accessibility of engagement opportunities and experiences of racism and discrimination were also identified.

Conclusion

This study increases the understanding of patient, family member, and caregiver engagement in policy related to PHC team integration and the barriers that currently exist in this engagement process. This information can be used to guide decision‐makers on how to improve the delivery of integrated health services through PHC teams and enhance patient, family member, and caregiver engagement in PHC policy.

Patient or Public Contribution

We would like to acknowledge the contributions of our patient partners, Brenda Jagroop and Judy Birdsell, who assisted with developing and pilot testing the interview guide. Judy Birdsell also assisted with the preparation of this manuscript. This study also engaged patients, family members, and caregivers to share their experiences with engagement in PHC policy.
Blood‐borne virus testing in emergency departments – a systematic review of seroprevalence, feasibility, acceptability and linkage to care
Authors: Simmons Ruth , Plunkett James , Cieply Lukasz , Ijaz Samreen , Desai Monica , Mandal Sema
Published: June 2022

Background

Blood‐borne viruses (BBVs) cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Emergency departments (EDs) offer a point of contact for groups at increased risk of BBVs who may be less likely to engage with primary care. We reviewed the literature to evaluate whether BBV testing in this setting might be a viable option to increase case finding and linkage to care.

Methods

We searched PubMed database for English language articles published until June 2019 on BBV testing in EDs. Studies reporting seroprevalence surveys, feasibility, linkage to care, enablers and barriers to testing were included. Additional searches for grey literature were performed.

Results

Eight‐nine articles met inclusion criteria, of which 14 reported BBV seroprevalence surveys in EDs, 54 investigated feasibility and acceptability, and 36 investigated linkage to care. Most studies were HIV‐focused and conducted in the USA. Seroprevalence rates were in the range 1.5–17% for HCV, 0.7–1.6% for HBV, and 0.8–13% for HIV. For studies that used an opt‐in study design, testing uptake ranged from 2% to 98% and for opt‐out it ranged from 16% to 91%. There was a wide range of yield: 13–100% of patients received their test result, 21–100% were linked to care, and 50–91% were retained in care. Compared with individuals diagnosed with HIV, linkage to and retention in care were lower for those diagnosed with hepatitis C. Predictors of linkage to care was associated with certain patient characteristics.

Conclusions

Universal opt‐out BBV testing in EDs may be feasible and acceptable, but linkage to care needs to be improved by optimizing implementation. Further economic evaluations of hepatitis testing in EDs are needed.
Outcomes reporting in systematic reviews on vital pulp treatment: A scoping review for the development of a core outcome set
Authors: Cushley Siobhan , Duncan Henry F. , Lundy Fionnuala T. , Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Clarke Mike , El Karim Ikhlas
Published: June 2022

Background

A large number of research reports on vital pulp treatment (VPT) has been published over the last two decades. However, heterogeneity in reporting outcomes of VPT is a significant challenge for evidence synthesis and clinical decision‐making.

Objectives

To identify outcomes assessed in VPT studies and to evaluate how and when outcomes are measured. A subsidiary aim was to assess evidence for selective reporting bias in the included studies. The results of this review will be used to inform the development of a core outcome set (COS) for endodontic treatments.

Methods

Multiple healthcare bibliographic databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Web of Science were searched for systematic reviews published between 1990 and 2020, reporting on VPT. Screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were completed independently by two reviewers. Outcomes' information was extracted and aligned with a healthcare taxonomy into five core areas: survival, clinical/physiological changes, life impact, resource use and adverse events.

Results

Thirty‐six systematic reviews were included, 10 reporting on indirect pulp capping or selective caries removal, nine on direct pulp capping, eight on pulpotomy and nine on combined VPTs. There was considerable variation in the outcomes reported in these reviews and their included studies. Clinician‐reported outcomes were used considerably more often than patient‐reported outcomes. A range of instruments and time points were used for measuring outcomes. Several of the reviews were assessed as having low risk of selective reporting bias, but many did not specifically report this domain, whilst others did not provide risk of bias assessment at all.

Discussion

Considerable variation in selection of outcomes and how and when they are measured and reported was evident, and this heterogeneity has implications for evidence synthesis and clinical decision‐making.

Conclusions

Whilst there is a lack of consistency, several potentially important outcomes for VPT, including pulp survival, incidence of post‐operative pain and need for further intervention, have been identified which could inform the development of a COS for endodontic treatment.

Registration

Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) (No. 1879).
Efficacy of washing produce in removing human coronavirus OC43 and murine norovirus
Authors: Dallner Matthew , Harlow Jennifer , Nasheri Neda
Published: June 2022

Aims

Fresh produce is often a vehicle for the transmission of foodborne pathogens such as human norovirus. Thus, it is recommended to wash the surface of produce before consumption, and one of the most common ways to wash produce is by rinsing under running tap water. This study determined the effectiveness of removal of human coronavirus-OC43 (HCoV-OC43), as a surrogate for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and murine norovirus-1 (MNV-1), as a surrogate for human norovirus, from contaminated lettuce, apples and cucumbers.

Methods and Results

The produce surfaces were artificially inoculated in conjunction with faecal material to represent natural contamination. Rinsing under tap water for 10 s at 40 ml/s removed 1.94 ± 0.44, 1.42 ± 0.00 and 1.42 ± 0.42 log of HCoV-OC43 from apple, cucumber and lettuce respectively. The same washing technique removed 1.77 ± 0.17, 1.42 ± 0.07 and 1.79 ± 0.14 log of MNV-1 from apple, cucumber and lettuce respectively. This washing technique was effective at reducing a significant amount of viral contamination, however, it was not enough to eliminate the entire contamination. There was no significant difference in the reduction of viral load between the two viruses, nor between the three surfaces tested in this study.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that washing under tap water would be an efficient way of reducing the risk of foodborne viral transmission only if the level of contamination is less than 2 log PFU.

Significance and Impact of Study

This study demonstrates that running tap water was effective at reducing the amount of infectious HCoV-OC43 and MNV on produce surfaces, and washing produce continues to be an important task to perform prior to consumption to avoid infection by foodborne viruses, particularly for foods which are eaten raw.
The role of spatial structure in multi‐deme models of evolutionary rescue
Authors: Tomasini Matteo , Peischl Stephan
Published: June 2022

Genetic variation and population sizes are critical factors for successful adaptation to novel environmental conditions. Gene flow between sub‐populations is a potent mechanism to provide such variation and can hence facilitate adaptation, for instance by increasing genetic variation or via the introduction of beneficial variants. On the other hand, if gene flow between different habitats is too strong, locally beneficial alleles may not be able to establish permanently. In the context of evolutionary rescue, intermediate levels of gene flow are therefore often optimal for maximizing a species chance for survival in metapopulations without spatial structure. To which extent and under which conditions gene flow facilitates or hinders evolutionary rescue in spatially structured populations remains unresolved. We address this question by studying the differences between evolutionary rescue in the island model and in the stepping stone model in a gradually deteriorating habitat. We show that evolutionary rescue is modulated by the rate of gene flow between different habitats, which in turn depends strongly on the spatial structure and the pattern of environmental deterioration. We use these insights to show that in many cases spatially structured models can be translated into a simpler island model using an appropriately scaled effective migration rate.