bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Agreement Between Human Ratings and Lexicon-Based Sentiment Ratings of Open-Ended Responses on a Behavioral Rating Scale
Authors: Gratz Olivia , Vos Duncan , Burke Megan , Soares Neelkamal
Published: March 2021

To date, there is a paucity of research conducting natural language processing (NLP) on the open-ended responses of behavior rating scales. Using three NLP lexicons for sentiment analysis of the open-ended responses of the Behavior Assessment System for Children-Third Edition, the researchers discovered a moderately positive correlation between the human composite rating and the sentiment score using each of the lexicons for strengths comments and a slightly positive correlation for the concerns comments made by guardians and teachers. In addition, the researchers found that as the word count increased for open-ended responses regarding the child’s strengths, there was a greater positive sentiment rating. Conversely, as word count increased for open-ended responses regarding child concerns, the human raters scored comments more negatively. The authors offer a proof-of-concept to use NLP-based sentiment analysis of open-ended comments to complement other data for clinical decision making.
Nonclinical Development of SRK-181: An Anti-Latent TGFβ1 Monoclonal Antibody for the Treatment of Locally Advanced or Metastatic Solid Tumors
Authors: Welsh Brian T. , Faucette Ryan , Bilic Sanela , Martin Constance J. , Schürpf Thomas , Chen David , Nicholls Samantha , Lansita Janice , Kalra Ashish
Published: March 2021

Checkpoint inhibitors offer a promising immunotherapy strategy for cancer treatment; however, due to primary or acquired resistance, many patients do not achieve lasting clinical responses. Recently, the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling pathway has been identified as a potential target to overcome primary resistance, although the nonselective inhibition of multiple TGFβ isoforms has led to dose-limiting cardiotoxicities. SRK-181 is a high-affinity, fully human antibody that selectively binds to latent TGFβ1 and inhibits its activation. To support SRK-181 clinical development, we present here a comprehensive preclinical assessment of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and safety across multiple species. In vitro studies showed that SRK-181 has no effect on human platelet function and does not induce cytokine release in human peripheral blood. Four-week toxicology studies with SRK-181 showed that weekly intravenous administration achieved sustained serum exposure and was well tolerated in rats and monkeys, with no treatment-related adverse findings. The no-observed-adverse-effect levels levels were 200 mg/kg in rats and 300 mg/kg in monkeys, the highest doses tested, and provide a nonclinical safety factor of up to 813-fold (based on Cmax) above the phase 1 starting dose of 80 mg every 3 weeks. In summary, the nonclinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetic, and toxicology data demonstrate that SRK-181 is a selective inhibitor of latent TGFβ1 that does not produce the nonclinical toxicities associated with nonselective TGFβ inhibition. These data support the initiation and safe conduct of a phase 1 trial with SRK-181 in patients with advanced cancer.
A survey of numerical linear algebra methods utilizing mixed-precision arithmetic
Authors: Abdelfattah Ahmad , Anzt Hartwig , Boman Erik G , Carson Erin , Cojean Terry , Dongarra Jack , Fox Alyson , Gates Mark , Higham Nicholas J , Li Xiaoye S , Loe Jennifer , Luszczek Piotr , Pranesh Srikara , Rajamanickam Siva , Ribizel Tobias , Smith Barry F , Swirydowicz Kasia , Thomas Stephen , Tomov Stanimire , Tsai Yaohung M , Yang Ulrike Meier
Published: March 2021

The efficient utilization of mixed-precision numerical linear algebra algorithms can offer attractive acceleration to scientific computing applications. Especially with the hardware integration of low-precision special-function units designed for machine learning applications, the traditional numerical algorithms community urgently needs to reconsider the floating point formats used in the distinct operations to efficiently leverage the available compute power. In this work, we provide a comprehensive survey of mixed-precision numerical linear algebra routines, including the underlying concepts, theoretical background, and experimental results for both dense and sparse linear algebra problems.
Electronic retinal prosthesis for severe loss of vision in geographic atrophy in age-related macular degeneration: First-in-human use
Authors: Stanga Paulo E , Tsamis Emmanouil , Siso-Fuertes Irene , Dorn Jessy D , Merlini Francesco , Fisher Andy , Crawford Fiona IJ , Kasbia Shakti S , Papayannis Alessandro , Baseler Heidi A , Morland Antony B , Hanson Rachel L. , Humayun Mark , Greenberg Robert J
Published: March 2021

Background:

To date there are yet no available approved therapies for Geographic Atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods:

Single site, non-randomized safety and efficacy study presenting the preliminary results in a cohort of five late stage AMD (GA) patients successfully implanted with the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System (Second Sight Medical Products Inc., Sylmar, CA, USA). Extensive fundus imaging including retinal photographs from which the GA area was measured. A combination of custom and traditional tests designed for very low vision subjects assessed visual function in study subjects. A Functional Low-Vision Observer Rated Assessment was carried out to evaluate the impact of the system on the subject’s daily life. In addition, a study to evaluate structural characteristics of the visual cortex of the brain was performed in one subject using magnetic resonance imaging.

Results:

Seven device-related adverse events were reported, four of which were classed as serious adverse events. Retinal detachment was reported in three patients and was successfully treated within 12 months of onset. Testing showed an improvement in visual function in three of five patients with the system turned on. Magnetic resonance imaging assessed in one patient after implantation indicates a selective increase in cortical myelin and thickness in visual brain regions 1 year post implantation.

Conclusions:

Epiretinal prostheses can successfully be implanted in those affected by GA secondary to late-stage AMD and can elicit visual percepts by electrical stimulation of residual neuroretinal elements and improve basic visual function in those affected.
Dual-mobility bearings in complex revision hip arthroplasty
Authors: Wakeling Christopher P , Sandiford Nemandra A , Ghani Rafia , Bridle Simon J , Mitchell Philip A , Hutt Jonathan RB
Published: March 2021

Background:

Revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) is associated with an increased dislocation risk. Dual-mobility (DM) bearings have been used to address this issue. Such constructs offer increased range of motion and enhanced stability whilst avoiding some issues associated with fully-constrained devices. DM bearings have been used in our unit since 2013.

Methods:

All rTHA cases since 2013 were reviewed using the following criteria: (1) use of a DM bearing; (2) extensive soft tissue or bone loss resulting from ARMD, infection or multiple revisions, or requiring custom or megaprosthetic reconstruction; (3) minimum 2-month follow-up.

Results:

52 cases were identified with a median of 2 previous operations (range 1–6) and mean follow-up of 14 (2–41) months. The Novae-Stick component was used in 50 cases, the Avantage in 2 and the Trident MDM in 1 case. 19 required acetabular reconstruction using trabecular metal and four required custom acetabular components. 19 required femoral reconstruction with a proximal or total femoral replacement. Postoperatively, 8 patients (15.4%) sustained a dislocation at a mean of 1.6 (range 1–3) months. 3 (5.8%) requiring re-revision. 1 required excision arthroplasty and 2 a constrained liner, 1 of which went on to have further instability. There were no intraprosthetic dislocations.

Conclusions:

Dual-mobility components are a viable option in the complex rTHA setting. Early dislocations can occur but the rate of instability is acceptable in this high-risk group.
Corona Viruses: A Review on SARS, MERS and COVID-19
Authors: Chathappady House Nihala Naseefa , Palissery Sheeba , Sebastian Honey
Published: March 2021

After the outbreak of SARS and MERS, the world is now in the grip of another viral disease named COVID-19 caused by a beta Coronavirus – SARS COV-2 which appears to be the only one with a pandemic potential. The case of COVID-19 was reported in the Hubei province of Wuhan city in Central China at the end of December 2019 and it is suspected that the sea food market played a role in this outbreak which was closed abruptly. Subsequently, a Public Health Emergency of International Concern was declared on 30 January 2020 by the World Health Organization. Both SARS and MERS corona viruses had its reservoir in bats and were transferred to humans from palm civets and camels respectively. This virus can be transmitted through airborne droplets. Natural reservoir and intermediate host of COVID-19 is yet to be identified. This paper reviews the occurrences of viral diseases in the recent times including SARS and MERS. As an addition to this, the paper will contain a detailed examination of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Between ‘homeland’ and ‘the local’: the shared cultural imaginary of Tantan among Chinese communities in Australia
Authors: Chen Xu
Published: March 2021

This article examines the cultural imaginary of Tantan shared among Australian Chinese diasporic users. Drawing on data collected through the walkthrough method and 16 interviews with Australia-based Chinese users of Tantan, this article finds that participants were able to perceive and contribute to the shared cultural references and norms on Tantan, which show a close connection with social media cultures in China. However, Tantan in Australia is not merely an extension of Chinese Internet culture; rather, it features unique characteristics that reflect elements of local Australian culture. This article argues that Tantan profile styles embody Chinese users’ diasporic identification in Australia, which involves an ongoing process of cultural navigation in their host country. Furthermore, as a geolocational app, Tantan also has the potential to bridge the flow of digital culture between ‘homeland’ and ‘the local’ with the transnational movements of its users.
Experimental study on the insertion loss of multilayer panels featuring a periodic structure
Authors: Gulia Preeti , Gupta Arpan
Published: March 2021

Acoustic panels with different configurations (layered structure with different absorbing materials) are broadly used to attenuate the noise. Multiple panels are preferred due to the presence of multiple air cavities and the repeated reflections which lead to increased sound attenuation. The paper presents an experimental study of sound propagation through multiple panels. A novel design of acoustic panel is proposed by incorporating the sonic crystal in the air cavities of the panel. Sonic crystal (SC) consists of a periodic arrangement of sound hard scatterers which provide the sound reduction in a particular frequency range due to destructive interference in periodic scatterers. The results are based on experimental observations which are supported by the literature. The results show that increasing the number of panels increases the sound insertion loss from the multiple panel structure. However, the panels with air cavity suffer from the sound insertion loss dip, which makes the panel ineffective. The novel acoustic panel (double and triple panel with SC) provides an additional sound reduction due to SC which can be tailored for certain frequency band. For the present case, SC is designed to overcome the insertion loss dip. The novel panel provides an additional insertion loss, reaching a maximum value of 19 and 11 dB, respectively (for the double and triple panel), overcoming the insertion loss dip due to structural vibration.
French vocabulary development of early-elementary students in a dual language immersion program: The role of out-of-school input and output
Authors: Ryan Ève
Published: March 2021

Aims:

The current study seeks to better understand the effects of input quantity, input quality, and output on the French vocabulary development of early-elementary school students attending a French–English dual language immersion (DLI) program in the United States.

Design:

The participants were 42 early-elementary students attending a French–English DLI program, who participated in a longitudinal study. At the beginning of the study, they experienced variability in out-of-school French input and output.

Data and analysis:

Data on out-of-school French input and output came from parents’ responses on a survey. Children’s French receptive vocabulary was measured using their scores on the Échelle de Vocabulaire en Images Peabody, while their French expressive vocabulary was measured using the number of different words employed on a picture description task. Their vocabulary skills were assessed over one year, and data from the five time points were used to fit a longitudinal growth model.

Findings:

Students who were exposed to more French input had higher scores on the French receptive vocabulary measure at baseline, whereas those who produced more French output had higher scores on the French expressive vocabulary measure at baseline. Maternal French proficiency had no significant effect on French receptive and expressive vocabulary scores at baseline.

Originality:

Few previous studies, if any, have analyzed the associations between input, output, and vocabulary development in the DLI context; that is, the extent to which children’s vocabulary trajectories in the partner language are affected by their out-of-school input and output experiences.

Implications:

Bilingual programs ought to emphasize both input and output in the target language given their unique contribution to children’s receptive and expressive language skills. Also, future research on bilingual vocabulary development should examine input and output in both languages.
Experimental behavior of injected geopolymer grout using styrene-butadiene latex for the repair and strengthening of masonry walls
Authors: Murat Maras Muslum
Published: March 2021

Unreinforced masonry buildings in the historic centers of the world have often been overlooked for centuries without any protection. These buildings demonstrate low resistance under external effects, especially against earthquakes. Earthquakes cause serious damage to the buildings and even the collapse of structures as a result of seismic stimulation from the impact of pounding with structural impacts. For this reason, it is of great importance to repair and strengthen damaged masonry structures. This study investigated the testing of masonry wall specimens produced from different kinds of masonry units with various types of mortar. Then, geopolymer grouts with high mechanical properties were produced by using alkali activation and industrial products. The experimental performance of strengthened masonry wall samples was determined using the optimum geopolymer grout in vertical compression tests. The behavior, failure mode, and crack pattern of the masonry wall samples were determined under loading systems. Experimental results demonstrate that the use of additive styrene-butadiene (SB) latex geopolymer grouts on damaged walls increased the load-carrying capacity and ductility significantly compared to the corresponding values of samples before initial failure. All of the strengthened walls failed through the de-bonding failure mode, and no visible damage was observed on the samples. Consequently, geopolymer grouts displayed many advantages over conventional repair materials due to their high viscosity, compressive strength, eco-friendliness, and excellent resistance.
Asymmetric importance-performance analysis: Measuring classification changes of destination attributes into basic, performance and excitement factors according to the segmentation criterion
Authors: Dueñas Xavier , Rodríguez Maribel , Pérez Leonor M
Published: March 2021

Studies combining Asymmetric Importance-Performance Analysis (AIPA) with segmentation are scarce and no study measures the magnitude of the changes in AIPA results when using different data sets: data sets belonging to general tourists and market segments. Consequently, no study evaluates whether one segmentation criterion produces greater changes in AIPA results than another. This study quantifies classification changes of destination attributes in AIPA results according to the previous visit and the origin of the visitors. Based on a sample of 409 tourists in Puerto López (Ecuador), results showed that “nature”, “adventure”, “sun and beach”, and “culture” were basic factors, while “grastronomy” was a performance factor. However, this classification differ considerably when different data sets are used, and especially, when considering segments by origin of the visitor.
Thinking about civil wars with and beyond Bourdieu: State, capital and habitus in critical contexts
Authors: Baczko Adam , Dorronsoro Gilles
Published: March 2021

Building on Marx and Weber, Bourdieu developed a sociology for scrutinizing the processes of domination and accumulation that allow social reproduction to take place. Yet, Bourdieu rarely tackled the breakdowns of social orders and never construed war as a scientific object, even if he signaled the theoretical interest in an inverse sociogenesis of the state. Despite this limitation, we argue that his work furnishes conceptual instruments for thinking about change and remains heuristic for understanding the dynamics of civil wars. These extreme situations in return let us rethink some of the theory’s central concepts (fields, habitus, capital). Thus, in succession we examine Bourdieu’s definition of the state (which fits into the Weberian tradition), explain the consequences of defining civil war as a violent competition between social orders, and end with an exploration of the social impacts of civil war on habitus.
Dual-frequency acousto-ultrasonic sensing of impact damage in composites for mitigating signal instability
Authors: Gong Chen , Wu Qi , Zhang Hanqi , Wang Rong , Xiong Ke , Okabe Yoji , Yu Fengming
Published: March 2021

Signal instability due to temperature fluctuations, sensor degradation, and debonding introduces additional amplitude loss in the detected signals during acousto-ultrasonic detection, which may be falsely attributed to defects in a structure. First, we determined that the amplitudes of both high-frequency and low-frequency Lamb waves decrease after propagation through a damaged area. Then, we found that the amplitude ratio of such waves not only exhibits a downward trend but is also immune to fluctuations in the input signals. A qualitative numerical expression was proposed to explain this phenomenon, and preliminary experiments were conducted to demonstrate that the amplitude ratio is an effective parameter for mitigating instability in signal detection. Particularly, the number of impacts on a composite laminate was evaluated with respect to changes in the input signal amplitude. Notably, this method can be further simplified by designing a dual-frequency input signal. After conclusively validating the performance of the novel method in a composite subjected to temperature fluctuations, we conclude that the proposed acousto-ultrasonic detection method is robust in mitigating signal instability, and that it yields reliable information for damage evaluation.
The Association of Sources of Support, Types of Support and Satisfaction with Support Received on Perceived Stress and Quality of Life of Cancer Patients
Authors: Ruiz-Rodríguez Iván , Hombrados-Mendieta Isabel , Melguizo-Garín Anabel , Martos-Méndez Mª José
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

The aim of the present study is to carry out a multidimensional analysis of the relationship of social support with quality of life and the stress perceived by cancer patients.

Methods:

The participants were 200 patients with cancer. Data was gathered on sociodemographic characteristics, health, quality of life, social support and perceived stress.

Results:

Frequency of and satisfaction with different sources and types of support are related positively with improvement of quality of life and negatively with perceived stress. The emotional support from the partner and the emotional and informational support from the family are significant predictors of quality of life. Emotional support from the family reduces patients’ perceived stress. Satisfaction with emotional support from the partner and with the informational support from friends and family increases quality of life. Satisfaction with emotional support from the family and with informational support from friends decreases patients’ perceived stress. Instrumental support and support provided by health professionals are not good predictors of quality of life and perceived stress. Satisfaction with the support received is more significantly related with quality of life and stress than the frequency with which the sources provide support.

Conclusions:

These results have important practical implications to improve cancer patients’ quality of life and reduce their perceived stress through social support. Designing intervention strategies to improve satisfaction with the support provided to patients by their closest networks results in a global benefit for the patient’s quality of life.
Irreversible Limb Ischemia Due to Embolizing Aneurysm of the Superficial Femoral Artery
Authors: Georgakarakos Efstratios , Tasopoulou Kalliopi-Maria , Kofina Konstantinia , Argyriou Christos
Published: March 2021

Background:

Degenerative superficial femoral artery aneurysms are rare and can lead to catastrophic complications; among these, rupture is the most usual, whereas peripheral embolization is less common.

Method:

We report a patient with a large superficial femoral artery aneurysm presenting with irreversible limb ischemia, due to multiple distal embolization as demonstrated with urgent computed tomography angiography. Due to local and systemic consequences primary limb amputation was performed. Unfortunately, the patient died from cardiac arrest on the 2nd postoperative day.

Conclusion:

Delayed diagnosis of true superficial femoral artery aneurysms can result in life-threatening consequences. Peripheral embolization is an uncommon event, but can lead to irreversible ischemia and limb loss.
Predicting outcomes of conservative treatment for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: Group- and individual-based rehabilitation
Authors: Chu Mary ML , Chan Josephine , Chan Chetwyn CH
Published: March 2021

Objective

To identify predicting factors of treatment outcomes of a two stage group-based and then individual-based intervention programme for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods

A prospective cohort study where patients diagnosed with CTS were recruited from an out-patient occupational therapy clinic to join the two-stage CTS programme. The Stage-One programme consisted of splinting and educational talks in a group format, while the Stage-Two programme consisted of four weekly individual sessions providing psychosocial support, reinforcing correct ergonomics and mobilization. Baseline assessment on six potential predicting factors and four outcome measures was done for all patients. Patients were re-assessed at the end of the Stage-One and the Stage-Two programme. Analysis was done by binary logistic regression adjusted for baseline covariates.

Results

One hundred and sixty-six patients completed the Stage-One programme and 46 patients also completed the Stage-Two programme. Results showed that the Chinese Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) baseline score was the only significant predictor for the Stage-One programme outcomes (AUC for ROC was 0.708) with an optimum cut-off score of 23.5. On the other hand, the Chinese QuickDASH baseline score was the only significant predictor for the Stage-Two programme outcomes (AUC for ROC was 0.801) with an optimum cut-off score of 27.4.

Conclusions

The significant predictor for the Stage One Programme was the Chinese SSS baseline score and that for the Stage Two Programme was the Chinese QuickDASH baseline score. The optimum cut-off scores identified may be applied clinically to guide client-centered treatment planning.
International stroke genetics consortium recommendations for studies of genetics of stroke outcome and recovery
Authors: Lindgren Arne G , Braun Robynne G , Juhl Majersik Jennifer , Clatworthy Philip , Mainali Shraddha , Derdeyn Colin P , Maguire Jane , Jern Christina , Rosand Jonathan , Cole John W , Lee Jin-Moo , Khatri Pooja , Nyquist Paul , Debette Stéphanie , Keat Wei Loo , Rundek Tatjana , Leifer Dana , Thijs Vincent , Lemmens Robin , Heitsch Laura , Prasad Kameshwar , Jimenez Conde Jordi , Dichgans Martin , Rost Natalia S , Cramer Steven C , Bernhardt Julie , Worrall Bradford B , Fernandez-Cadenas Israel ,   International Stroke Genetics Consortium
Published: March 2021

Numerous biological mechanisms contribute to outcome after stroke, including brain injury, inflammation, and repair mechanisms. Clinical genetic studies have the potential to discover biological mechanisms affecting stroke recovery in humans and identify intervention targets. Large sample sizes are needed to detect commonly occurring genetic variations related to stroke brain injury and recovery. However, this usually requires combining data from multiple studies where consistent terminology, methodology, and data collection timelines are essential. Our group of expert stroke and rehabilitation clinicians and researchers with knowledge in genetics of stroke recovery here present recommendations for harmonizing phenotype data with focus on measures suitable for multicenter genetic studies of ischemic stroke brain injury and recovery. Our recommendations have been endorsed by the International Stroke Genetics Consortium.
Improved gastrointestinal profile with diroximel fumarate is associated with a positive impact on quality of life compared with dimethyl fumarate: results from the randomized, double-blind, phase III EVOLVE-MS-2 study
Authors: Wundes Annette , Wray Sibyl , Gold Ralf , Singer Barry A. , Jasinska Elzbieta , Ziemssen Tjalf , de Seze Jerome , Repovic Pavle , Chen Hailu , Hanna Jerome , Messer Jordan , Miller Catherine , Naismith Robert T.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Diroximel fumarate (DRF) is a novel oral fumarate approved for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). DRF demonstrated significantly improved gastrointestinal (GI) tolerability versus dimethyl fumarate (DMF) with fewer days of Individual Gastrointestinal Symptom and Impact Scale (IGISIS) scores ⩾2, GI adverse events (AEs), and treatment discontinuations due to GI AEs. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of GI tolerability events on quality of life (QoL) for patients with relapsing–remitting MS who received DRF or DMF in EVOLVE-MS-2.

Methods:

A post hoc analysis was conducted in patients who were enrolled in the randomized, blinded, 5-week, EVOLVE-MS-2 [ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03093324] study of DRF versus DMF. Patients completed daily IGISIS and Global GISIS (GGISIS) eDiary questionnaires to assess GI symptom intensity and interference with daily activities and work.

Results:

In total, 504 patients (DRF, n = 253; DMF, n = 251) received study drug and 502 (DRF, n = 253; DMF, n = 249) completed at least one post-baseline questionnaire. With DRF, GI symptoms were less likely to interfere ‘quite a bit’ or ‘extremely’ with regular daily activities [IGISIS: DRF, 9.5% (24/253) versus DMF, 28.9% (72/249)] or work productivity [GGISIS: DRF, 6.1% (10/165) versus DMF, 11.3% (18/159)]. DRF-treated patients had fewer days with ⩾1 h of missed work (DRF, 43 days, n = 20 versus DMF, 88 days, n = 26). DMF-treated patients reported highest GI symptom severity and missed work at week 2–3 shortly after completing the titration period, which coincided with the majority of GI-related treatment discontinuations [58.3% (7/12)]. GI tolerability AEs [DRF, 34.8% (88/253); DMF, 48.2% (121/251)], concomitant symptomatic medication use [DRF, 19.3% (17/88) versus DMF, 30.6% (37/121)], and GI-related discontinuations (DRF, 0.8% versus DMF, 4.8%) were lower with DRF versus DMF.

Conclusions:

The improved GI tolerability with DRF translated into clinically meaningful benefits to QoL, as patients experienced less impact on daily life and work and required less concomitant symptomatic medication use.

Trial registration:

[ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03093324]
Ultrasound for diagnosis and follow-up of chronic axillary vasculitis in patients with long-standing giant cell arteritis
Authors: Bosch Philipp , Dejaco Christian , Schmidt Wolfgang A. , Schlüter Kenny D-. , Pregartner Gudrun , Schäfer Valentin S.
Published: March 2021

Aims:

To assess intima-media thickness (IMT) changes measured by ultrasound in axillary arteries of giant cell arteritis (GCA) patients over time and to calculate an ultrasound cut-off value for the diagnosis of chronic axillary artery involvement in patients with longstanding GCA.

Methods:

Ultrasound of both axillary arteries was performed in 109 GCA patients at time of diagnosis and at several follow-up visits and in 40 healthy controls (HCs). IMT determined at the prospective follow-up visit was compared between GCA patients with (axGCA) and without (non-axGCA) vasculitis of axillary arteries at baseline, as well as with HCs. Changes in IMT were depicted. Receiver operating characteristics were performed for cut-off calculations. Inter-/intra-rater agreement was evaluated using stored images and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results:

Seventy-three patients were in the axGCA and 36 in the non-axGCA group. Pathological IMT of axillary arteries (axGCA) declined in the first 18 months of treatment by −0.5 mm, (range −2.77 to 0.50), independent of age and gender. Median IMT, after median disease duration of 48 months (16–137), was 0.90 mm (0.46–2.20) in axGCA and 0.60 mm (0.42–1.0) in the non-axGCA group pooled with HCs. An IMT of 0.87 mm was highly specific (specificity 96%, sensitivity 61%) for diagnosis of chronic axGCA. Intra-rater and inter-reader agreement of ultrasound images were good [ICC 0.96–1.0 (three readers) and 0.87, respectively].

Conclusion:

Pathological IMT of the axillary artery declined under treatment. An IMT of 0.87 mm is highly specific for diagnosis of chronic vasculitis of axillary arteries in long-standing GCA patients.
Which Bag? Predicting Consumer Preferences for a Luxury Product With a Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Chu Lo Canie K.Y. , Burton Suzan , Lam Regan , Nesbit Paul
Published: March 2021

Limited research has described a segment of consumers who prefer subtly branded luxury products, rather than conspicuous consumption. However, in comparison with the enormous amount of research mentioning conspicuous consumption, there has been only very limited research into “inconspicuous consumption,” leading to calls for more research in the area. In this article, we describe a discrete choice experiment examining the luxury product preferences of Chinese consumers, the largest market segment for luxury products. We describe and test a theoretical model investigating how product characteristics (logo prominence, price, and brand), peers’ attitudes and behaviors, and other individual characteristics influence consumers’ choice of a luxury bag. For each brand, a prominent logo was preferred, but a very large minority preferred a subtle logo. However, the effect of price, attitudinal and social factors varied across luxury brands. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Description of a Novel Patch Pump for Insulin Delivery and Comparative Accuracy Evaluation
Authors: Baumstark Annette , Mende Jochen , Uchiyama Joji , Haug Cornelia , Freckmann Guido
Published: March 2021

A new insulin patch pump for continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion was developed. The pump is composed of reusable and disposable parts and operates with a stepping motor. This pump was compared to a patch pump and a durable pump regarding basal rate and bolus accuracy. Using a microgravimetric method, boluses of 0.2 U, 1 U and 7 U, and a basal rate of 1 U/h were tested. For all pumps, bolus accuracy was higher when larger volumes were delivered. While median deviations were similar for all pumps, there were differences in the precision of individual boluses and when regarding basal rate delivery divided into 1-h windows.
Randomized Trial for Weight Loss Using a Digital Therapeutic Application
Authors: Thorgeirsson Tryggvi , Torfadottir Johanna E. , Egilsson Erlendur , Oddsson Saemundur , Gunnarsdottir Thrudur , Aspelund Thor , Olafsdottir Anna S. , Valdimarsdottir Unnur A. , Kawachi Ichiro , Adami Hans-Olov , Bjarnason Ragnar G.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Smartphones present a near-ubiquitous channel through which structured lifestyle change can reduce risk or progression of the most common noncommunicable diseases. We explored whether a digital structured lifestyle program enhances weight loss.

Methods:

We randomized overweight and obese participants attending a four-month lifestyle change program to either standard weekly coaching sessions (controls), or standard treatment supplemented with a digital therapeutic mobile application (intervention). Changes in body mass index after four months were the main outcome measure. Odds ratios of achieving 5% weight loss were estimated with unconditional logistic regression.

Results:

Of 234 eligible persons, 146 (62%) agreed to participate, were block-randomized, showed up for the baseline measures, and constituted the intention-to-treat (ITT) sample ( n = 95 intervention group, n = 51 control group). In the intervention group, 70 (74%) downloaded the mobile application and completed the program (intervention per-protocol). Significant weight loss and BMI reduction were observed for both the intention-to-treat intervention group ( P < 0.05, P = 0.01) and the per-protocol intervention group ( P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001). For the intervention per-protocol group, the odds ratio of achieving 5% weight loss, compared to not treated per-protocol, was 3.3 (95% CI 1.3-8.2), adjusting for age and weight at baseline.Attendance to weekly coaching sessions decreased by 18% during the program in the control group while it increased by 3% amongst the per-protocol group ( P = 0.004).

Conclusions:

These preliminary findings support the benefit of a digital therapeutic to enhance weight reduction and attendance in a structured lifestyle change program. Larger trials of longer duration are needed to confirm these findings.
Improving Data Quality with Sociodemographic Matching?: About the Effects and Implications of Age and Gender Matching in Face-to-Face Interviews
Authors: Bittmann Felix
Published: March 2021

According to the theory of liking, data quality might be improved in face-to-face survey settings when there is a high degree of similarity between respondents and interviewers, for example, with regard to gender or age. Using two rounds of European Social Survey data from 25 countries including more than 70,000 respondents, this concept is tested for the dependent variables amount of item nonresponse, reluctance to answer, and the probability that a third adult person is interfering with the interview. The match between respondents and interviewers is operationalized using the variables age and gender and their statistical interactions to analyze how this relates to the outcomes. While previous studies can be corroborated, overall effect sizes are small. In general, item nonresponse is lower when a male interviewer is conducting the interview. For reluctance, there are no matching effects at all. Regarding the presence of other adults, only female respondents profit from a gender match, while age is without any effect. The results indicate that future surveys should weigh the costs and benefits of sociodemographic matching as advantages are probably small.
Is It Possible to Think Physical Education Forward and Dismantle Ourselves—in a Quantum Space?
Authors: Andersson Åsa , Korp Peter , Reinertsen Anne B.
Published: March 2021

This paper invites readers to an encounter of novel learning in the school subject physical education, and specifically swimming training. In collaboration with Deleuze’s immanent philosophy and creative observations in a case-assemblage, I speculate about productive experiences and educational events as movements toward physical activation, higher education, and the dissolution of health inequalities. Troubling situations of a standardized model of swimming training is combined with a quantum space where multiple divergent ideas, forces, and feelings interact and produce unforeseen learnings, values, and qualities. Frictions between segmented spaces and quantum spaces orient/reorient the student’s/swimming instructor’s/my/your? learning, values, and qualities. Finally, I emphasize quantum spaces as the heart of educational movement and the importance of creating open educational systems to perhaps think physical education forward.
The Role of Personality in Shaping Pandemic Response: Systemic Sociopolitical Factors Drive Country Differences
Authors: Siritzky Meghan , Condon David , Weston Sara
Published: March 2021

The current study utilizes the current COVID-19 pandemic to highlight the importance of accounting for the influence of external political and economic factors in personality public health research. We investigated the extent to which systemic factors modify the relationship between personality and pandemic response. Results shed doubt on the cross-cultural generalizability of common Big Five factor models. Individual differences only predicted government compliance in autocratic countries and in countries with income inequality. Personality was only predictive of mental health outcomes under conditions of state fragility. Our ability to use individual differences to understand policy-relevant outcomes changes based on environmental factors and must be assessed on a trait-by-trait basis, thus supporting the inclusion of systemic political and economic factors in individual differences models.
Social Class—Not Income Inequality—Predicts Social and Institutional Trust
Authors: Kim Youngju , Sommet Nicolas , Na Jinkyung , Spini Dario
Published: March 2021

Trust is the social glue that holds society together. The academic consensus is that trust is weaker among lower-class individuals and in unequal regions/countries, which is often considered a threat to a healthy society. However, existing studies are inconsistent and have two limitations: (i) variability in the measurement of social class and (ii) small numbers of higher level units (regions/countries). We addressed these problems using large-scale (cross-)national representative surveys (encompassing 560,000+ participants from 1,500+ regional/national units). Multilevel analysis led to two consistent sets of findings. First, the effects of social class on social trust were systematically positive, whereas the effects on institutional trust depended on the way social class was measured. Second, the effects of income inequality on social and institutional trust were systematically nonsignificant and smaller than the smallest negative effect of interest. Our findings suggest that researchers need to update their knowledge: social class—not income inequality—predicts trust.
Effect of TO901317 on GF to promote the differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells into dopamine neurons on Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Yang Junqing , Cheng Oumei , Peng Zhe , Luo Yin , Ran Dongzhi , Yang Yang , Xiang Pu , Huang Haifeng , Tan Xiaodan , Wang Hong
Published: March 2021

Background:

Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) could differentiate into dopamine-producing cells and ameliorate behavioral deficits in Parkinson’s disease (PD) models. Liver X receptors (LXRs) are involved in the maintenance of the normal function of central nervous system myelin. Therefore, the previous work of our team has found the induction of cocktail-induced to dopaminergic (DA) phenotypes from adult rat BMSCs by using sonic hedgehog (SHH), fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and TO901317 (an agonist of LXRs) with 87.42% of efficiency in a 6-day induction period. But we did not verify whether the induced cells had the corresponding neural function.

Methods:

Expressions of LXRα, LXRβ, and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) were detected by immunofluorescence and western blot. Adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) was detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The induced cells were transplanted into PD rats to study whether the induced cells are working.

Results:

The induced cells can release the dopamine transmitter; the maximum induction efficiency of differentiation of hBMSCs into DA neurons was 91.67% under conditions of combined use with TO901317 and growth factors (GF). When the induced-cells were transplanted into PD rats, the expression of TH in the striatum increased significantly, and the behavior of PD rats induced by apomorphine was significantly improved.

Conclusion:

The induced cells have the function of DA neurons and have the potential to treat PD. TO901317 promoted differentiation of hBMSCs into DA neurons, which may be related to activation of the LXR-ABCA1 signaling pathway.
Outcomes of coronavirus 2019 infection in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Yi-Chih , Lai Tai-Shuan , Lin Shuei-Liong , Chen Yung-Ming , Chu Tzong-Shinn , Tu Yu-Kang
Published: March 2021

Background:

Information on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains limited. To understand the influence of COVID-19 infection in patients with pre-existing CKD, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate and compare the risks of all-cause mortality, hospitalization, and critical progression between patients with and without CKD.

Methods:

We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective or retrospective observational, case-control, cross-sectional, and case-series studies analyzing outcomes of COVID-19 infection in patients with pre-existing CKD from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases published on the Internet before 16 July 2020.

Results:

A total of 27 studies comprising 77,856 patients with COVID-19 infection was identified; 3922 patients with pre-existing CKD were assigned CKD group, and 73,934 patients were assigned to the non-CKD group. The pooled analysis showed that patients with CKD had a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality and hospitalization than those without CKD [odds ratio (OR) 2.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.91–2.66, p < 0.001; OR 4.29, 95% CI 2.93–6.28, p < 0.001; respectively]. Patients with CKD had a higher risk of critically ill conditions than those without CKD in the pooled analysis of studies with multivariable adjustment (adjusted OR 2.12, 95% CI 0.95–4.77, p = 0.07) and in the analysis of all included studies (OR 1.27, 95% CI 0.71–2.26, p = 0.41), but both analyses did not attain statistical significance.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 infected patients with CKD had significantly increased risks of all-cause mortality and hospitalization compared with those without CKD.
Obstructive pancreatolithiasis in a cat with triaditis and concurrent hypercalcaemia
Authors: Allan Frederik , Peschard Anne-Lorraine , Schiavo Luca , Bayton Will , Corbetta Davide , McCallum Katie E
Published: March 2021

Case summary

A 7-year-old neutered female domestic longhair cat was presented for further investigation of suspected hepatobiliary disease. Increases in serum 1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycero-3-glutaric acid-(6'-methylresorufin) ester lipase and hepatobiliary enzymes, with concurrent hypoalbuminaemia, were documented on blood biochemistry. Abdominal ultrasonography findings were consistent with acute pancreatitis with multiple pancreatoliths visualised within the pancreatic duct. Treatment for suspected triaditis was initiated with a hydrolysed protein diet, amoxicillin–clavulanate, hepatoprotectants and buprenorphine. Fifty-three days later, the patient presented with hypercalcaemia and obstructive pancreatolithiasis, and was euthanased. Post-mortem examination revealed severe chronic active pancreatitis with moderate chronic lymphocytic, plasmacytic cholangiohepatitis and mild chronic lymphocytic–plasmacytic duodenal enteritis (triaditis). Multiple calcium carbonate pancreatoliths present within the pancreatic ducts had resulted in pancreatic duct obstruction.

Relevance and novel information

Pancreatolithiasis is a very rare condition in cats, with only five reports to date. In human medicine, pancreatolithiasis is often a sequala to chronic pancreatitis, seen in up to 50–90% of patients. However, in cats the aetiology of pancreatolithiasis, and indeed chronic pancreatitis, is poorly understood. This report describes a case of obstructive pancreatolithiasis in a cat with histopathological confirmation of triaditis and is the first report of hypercalcaemia in a cat with obstructive pancreatolithiasis. This further adds to the evidence base that pancreatolithiasis may have a similar pathogenesis to humans and can develop secondarily to chronic pancreatitis in cats.
High prevalence of fatigue in contemporary patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Broch Line , Simonsen Cecilia Smith , Flemmen Heidi Øyen , Berg-Hansen Pål , Skardhamar Åshild , Ormstad Heidi , Celius Elisabeth Gulowsen
Published: March 2021

Objective

The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS)-related fatigue may have changed due to new diagnostic criteria and new disease modifying drugs. We aimed to assess the prevalence of fatigue in a contemporary MS cohort, and to explore associations between fatigue and clinical and demographic factors.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of the MS population in three Norwegian counties. Fatigue was assessed with the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC). We also assessed self-reported anxiety, depression and daytime sleepiness.

Results

The response rate was 64% (1599/2512). The mean age of the participants was 52 ± 13 years, median EDSS was 2.5 (IQR 1.5-3.0) and median disease duration from onset was 16 years (IQR 8-25). We found a prevalence of fatigue of 81%. Women had a higher prevalence of fatigue than men (83% vs 78%, p = 0.02). The prevalence increased with age (p < 0.001) and with increasing disease severity (p < 0.001), but in multivariate analyses, only sex and disease severity remained independent determinants of fatigue. Anxiety, depression, and daytime sleepiness were more prevalent in patients with fatigue than in those without fatigue (all p-values < 0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of fatigue is high in contemporary patients with MS. Fatigue is associated with female sex and level of disability, as well as with anxiety, depression and excessive daytime sleepiness.